Etzli shifted back into her human form. She lay sprawled on the deck. Her eyes were closed. Her body was limp.

Nevertheless, she sang an ancient melody.

Paras watched a change come over Atee, Capac, and the spawners. They all recognized the song. And so did she. She heard it once before, and she would never forget it.

A wispy figure emerged from the shadows. Its details faded in and out too quickly, like a hot breath in cold air.

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