The Meek and The Beast

A remote, woodland village is plagued by a feathered, dragon like, creature. The beast. In order to keep the monster at bay the village people have resorted to sacrificing their livestock; an unspoken agreement arranged in desperation. But when the resources run low, a new choice must be made to save the people from starvation. Those in charge must take initiative and choose a human sacrifice based on a practicality. Ferrin, a teenage boy with anemia, is the first choice. On the night of a new moon he is ripped from his twin sister's arms and offered up as a meal to the beast. Chained, and bleeding, he ponders his chances of survival. All he can do is pray, wait for death, and hope for a miracle. Will one come?