In this excerpt, the sequence of events creates suspense by

starting the story in the middle of things.
describing a setting that causes anticipation.
slowing down the plot to focus on an important character.
speeding up the plot to move the story forward and build tension

slowing down the plot to focus on an important character

Explanation:

I believe the question is related to the story entitled "The Cruel Tribute."

The situation above happened after the people found out that King Minos of Crete had a "Labyrinth" where the people who were sent to him were killed by a Minotaur. This caused disdain on the people.

Then, the plot slowed down by mentioning about how the years have passed and how the people obeyed on sending their seven males and females to Minos. This was done in order to introduce a new character named "Theseus," who grew up in those passing years and was now looking for his father, King AEgeus.

So, this explains the answer.

so are we writing a song for you or are we making characters for you.

they would have to clean it very clean