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In the heart of Kulakula village, life revolved around water. The spring at the edge of the forest had quenched thirst for generations, but in recent years, it became a place of fear. On a bright morning, Achieng, daughter of Mama Ajeni, balanced an empty pot on her head. She was eighteen, sharp-to…

In the heart of Kulakula village, life revolved around water. The spring at the edge of the forest had quenched thirst for generations, but in recent years, it became a place of fear. On a bright morning, Achieng, daughter of Mama Ajeni, balanced an empty pot on her head. She was eighteen, sharp-tongued and sharp-eyed, known for her stubbornness and for asking too many questions. Her mother, like all the women in the village, warned her: “Never go to the spring alone. And if the snake appears,