The sacrificial maiden was one of the "chosen ones" selected by their people to act as a host for a Chestburster, a human sacrifice offered to the Yautja so that young members of their race may undertake an initiation hunt against the Xenomorphs that were born as a result. The victims would go to their deaths willingly, considering it an honor, fulfilling the pact between humans and their "Gods", the Yautja. As such, the maiden lay on one of the plinths inside the sacrificial chamber and allowed a Facehugger to attach to her face. After implantation was complete, the maiden remained where she was until the Chestburster emerged from her chest, killing her and signalling the start of the hunt.