Chapter 19

Nimbus and Grum, Lucent Deep

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            For a few days the Tidesworn grew acclimated to their new residence, but gathered supplies were running low.

            “We need to start hunting,” Grum explained. “That is what the other Huntbounds did to survive.” The idea troubled many; only a few of the Grown showed interest.

            “To harm creatures goes against our culture,” Kalen said. “We do our best to preserve nature. Still, even in nature there are predators that keep ecosystems in balance.”

            The new submarine launched. Many Tidesworn—Grown, a few Elders, and even some Young—tried the controls. It was tricky at first, but many became deft. Salvaged diving gear, once used for city repairs, became tools for capture. Slobber Maw led them to a rich hunting ground with plentiful, easy fish. They mostly used nets; one Grown fashioned a rudimentary spear of Slimeshell and bone, which proved effective.

            The first feast was timid. Most Tidesworn weren’t sure which parts of fish to eat—one chewed a tail, others covered meat in strong spices, and one discovered a Charcoal Snapper’s secret. Later hunts brought fuller plates. They stored some catches in shell pots, soaking them in a vinegar‑like substance for preservation. Slobber Maw began to rock and moved for several more days. The Tidesworn improved their new sub and named it Coral, now both shelter and livelihood.

            When Slobber Maw finally stopped, the trio, Cornelius, and Kalen boarded the Coral. They guessed the beast’s course and exited through the usual route. They emerged in the Rhinestone Reach harbor. Loud screeches rose from docks and shorelines as the monster came into view. Slobber Maw eyed the ships; the Scuttleback was nowhere to be seen. They piloted Coral into the same portal that had claimed the Gutfang—the sub was still there. A low grumble shook the water.

            Bonegorge had returned from a detour, pleased to see her offspring grown. The group left the Coral quickly; Grum tied a rope to secure it to the Sourced dock. Another sub surfaced in the bay—a near duplicate of the Gutfang—approaching the docks. The hatch opened. “Find the cave yet?” called a familiar voice: Ribfin.

            “Yes, and we made some friends along the way!” Nimbus shouted back. Cornelius Thrimmington was thrilled to be on dry land again. Grum added, “You can have the Gutfang back—we’ve got some people you might want to meet.” Ribfin looked puzzled.

         “People eat?” he asked.

            “No—meet, like introductions. Say hi!” Grum chuckled.

            Ribfin laughed. A small band of Huntbounds docked; a couple of them untied the Gutfang and headed it back toward Bonegorge.