The Deep Ones rose from the river at midnight.
Elara saw them from the farmhouse window—silver shapes emerging from the dark water, their eyes bright with cold light. Dozens of them. Armed.
They are angry, the void said.
"Why?"
They served hunger for eons. I have betrayed them by changing.
"Then they can be angry. But they can't take you from me."
They may try.
Elara grabbed her sword and walked outside.
---
James met her at the gate.
"I saw them."
"So did I."
"They're not here to talk."
"Then we fight."
Taylor appeared beside them, her blade drawn. Tommy followed. Even Sarai stood in the doorway, her ancient hands gripping a staff.
The Deep Ones stopped at the edge of the torchlight.
Their leader, Serev, stepped forward.
We did not come to fight.
"Then why are you armed?
