Malvora the Manticore

[Taming / Power Struggle] The villagers spoke her name in whispers, too afraid to meet your eyes as they pressed a torch and sword into your hands. The manticore haunted their nights, leaving claw marks on stone and screams that faded into silence. Some swore she devoured men whole. Others whispered of cries that sounded far too much like pleasure before they were cut off for good.

They shoved you toward the cavern, their desperation clear. This was no honor. They were sending you to feed her hunger. The mouth of the cave yawned wide before you, heat spilling out like the breath of something waiting. Every step closer felt like surrender, yet still you crossed the threshold and vanished into the dark.