It was a long swim back to shore, but Bunter finally made it just before dawn. He was exhausted, and his spirits had hit rock bottom. He was not used to defeat.
Now you have to face Walsh...and Caprice.
Bunter headed straight for the High Elder's house. He wondered what spin he could possibly put on his report.
Walsh: You're back! What news, my lad?
Bunter: Well, sir. It's good and bad.
Walsh: Better come inside.
Bunter: High Elder, I was not able to complete my mission.
Walsh: What happened, son?
Bunter: There was indeed a sea monster, a creature called a Kraken. It was as big as a ship! And deadly. I'm afraid it destroyed your boat.
Walsh: My god! You're lucky to be alive!
Bunter: Yes, sir.
Bunter: But I know how to best the Kraken! I need to track it to its lair. I have an idea that this thing changes shape. It just disappeared too suddenly. Something so big couldn't have vanished that quickly, I don't care how fast it is!
Walsh: You think the monster is some sort of shapeshifter?
Bunter: That's it exactly! I did a lot of searching as I swam back to shore. The water isn't that deep around Rinn Fada. I believe the beast exhausted itself and went into hiding somewhere.
Walsh: How can you be so sure?
Bunter: Well, High Elder, I'll tell you. I've had some dealings with, uh, monsters in the past. I know a little of their habits. My error this time was not quite believing the reports. I thought the incidents might have been smugglers...or even pranksters.
Walsh: Reasonable speculations. I considered these possibilities myself.
Bunter: But as it turned out, the sightings were all too real.
Walsh: So it appears. Tell me, how do you propose to track this Kraken?
Bunter: Sir, I need diving equipment. The water may not be deep, but it's deep enough. I want air tanks in case I have to swim through underwater caves or tunnels. High Elder, can the Brethren provide me with this gear?
Walsh: The Brethren can't, but I can! What all do you need?
Bunter: A fast boat and good diving gear. The rest I can get myself.
Walsh: And what if the creature destroys your boat again?
Bunter: I plan to go during the day. It seems the Kraken only attacks after dark. I believe it hides from the light, maybe to cover its shapeshifting.
Walsh: Well, my boy. I suppose your plan here is the best we've got. Something has to be done--and right away! Though, I don't like the idea of you getting this close to the monster again.
Bunter: I'll be prepared this time, High Elder. I promise, I will not fail!
Walsh: I trust you won't. It's going to take time to get the boat and equipment lined up. I'll send you notice, but be ready to begin tomorrow just after sunrise.
Bunter: Yes, sir!
Bunter left Walsh's feeling a little more like his confident self, but there was still Caprice to talk to. Then, at some point, he'd have to discuss financial matters with His Lordship. ...It was going to be a long day!
Bunter: Caprice? Wake up! It's, uh, Marvin. I'm back.
Bunter: Sorry to disturb your rest, but it's important that we talk.
Caprice: Marvin! I'm so glad you're back. You've been gone an awfully long time!
Bunter: I'm very glad to be back. Trust me!
Bunter: You're looking radiant this morning, Caprice! So lovely!
Caprice: But Marvin...you look tired. And I, I sense unrest with you too. What has happened?
Bunter: Oh, I'm fine, luv. But it's been quite a night! I was caught in that hail storm while out in a row boat.
Caprice: Marvin! What were you doing out in a boat last night? Good grief! I thought you were working on a job for those Woeful fellows.
Bunter: Being in the boat was part of the job. It just didn't go as planned. I'm afraid I have no money to give you this morning. My job didn't get completed...well, because of the storm.
Caprice: That's outrageous! Those Woefuls have no right to withhold your pay because of bad weather! That's hardly your fault! I've a mind to call them up and tell them just what I think about the lot of them! Really, Marvin! You need to learn to stand up for yourself!
Bunter: Shh, it's ok. I'll get paid tomorrow. In the meantime, I know where to get money for the contractors today. So don't worry about a thing, sweetheart!
Caprice: Marvin, are you being totally honest with me? I mean about last night? I'd hate to think you were lying...
Caprice: Mmph...
Caprice: That was really nice, Marvin. You're very romantic this morning--even if you are keeping secrets. And don't say another word because I can see your aura! I know it was much worse last night than you're saying.
Bunter: Now Caprice...
Caprice: Wait! I know! I'll project my Soothing Aura for you so you'll feel better. Then I'll give you a massage. How does that sound?
Bunter: Heavenly!
Caprice gave a little cry and rose into the air, radiating soothing rays of healing. Bunter watched, fascinated.
Then he just relaxed into the calming warmth. He was looking forward to receiving Caprice's tender loving care.
