The Waters of Edera

'The Waters of Edera' is a novel set in Italy, written by Ouida. The story begins with describing the countryside of Italy, with its sparse population, wide pastures, forests, and mountains. Herdsmen, shepherds, and their flocks traverse the land, traveling long distances and enduring brutal treatment. The shepherds take their frustration out on their animals, including stoning them, mutilating them, and forcing them to fight to the death for sport. A little beggar girl tries to intervene but is met with jeers from the shepherds.