Zed Pov:

"It's never exactly my idea trip in meeting new people is traveling deep within the possibly dark waters of Seabrook Beach and possibly meeting people who've been sleeping right underneath us for so long. Still Addison believes that their good people, which I want to believe as well. Except it's always been the same pattern, new people come to town and have an alternative motive. That doesn't worry me, it's how Revenant is acting. He's always been protective over Wynter as well her in return, but this time it's almost looking like another me. Only that the last time someone threaten Wynter and the wolves, he was willing to take a life to protect them. Which was under distress, meaning that if the Merfolk aren't what they say they are. Then I have to do something I'm going regret."


Night Time-Under Seabrook Beach Water

Taking precautions on how they were following Miriam and the Ceto swimming into the water as they noticed a peculiar sight. Their human like appearance began to change with their skin growing scales, and gills growing on the side of their necks and fins exposing their aquatic forms. The Seabrook teens were shocked at their sudden transformation and how they could see what they look like when submerged in water but couldn't stop to ask questions as they continued to swim deeper and deeper to the bottom of the water.

"Sorry to ask but how will we know when we arrive? Because not a lot of people travel underwater in Seabrook, and it might take hours to return to your home."

Addison asked Miriam about the journey they were taking since it felt like an hour since they dived into the water beginning their trip. Continuing to swim they noticed something glowing amongst the dark water, getting closer to the glow they saw numerous buildings bunched together and other Ceto swimming together.

"I believe that answers your question."

Miriam responded to her as it was a lot to take in since they didn't know they had an entire town living right underneath the beach. The four continued to follow Miriam and they gently landed right on the floor. Taking a moment, they explored the structures of each building appearing old and from thousands of years ago. Following the Ceto female, she was guiding them past the buildings across the edge where they saw something glowing right in front of them suspiciously.

"What you're looking at is the remains of our home, this. Is where we have slept for years."

Stating to the four as she walked right into the glowing body of water which freaked out the group seeing how this wasn't the Ceto home but ruins. Wynter not having any fear decided to go first as she disappeared right in front of the others, worried about what might have happened the three head into the glow not thinking about what was on the other side. Moving through the glow the three remerged to find themselves in a different part of the water, suddenly they felt lighter upon making it to the other side.

"Guys. I think they've been waiting for us."

Wynter's voice called out to them as the three saw numerous buildings just like the others behind the wall but cleaned and look new. Numerous Ceto was walking amongst themselves and minding their own business which included handing out food and helping one another.

"This is really, amazing. Is this the rest of your people?"

Zed asked Miriam about how they saw several Ceto with her when they made their appearance to Seabrook. This was the rest of the Ceto as they noticed Wynter and her friends arriving in their home, taking the moment they stopped working to admire the arrival of the werewolf.

"Yes, and we've been waiting for the Diva's arrival."

Explaining to them how the Ceto have been preparing for when Wynter would come to their home as everyone bowed their heads to the werewolf. Guiding them down across the small town, they were greeted by the sea folk and smiled at them for coming to visit their home as it was still impossible to imagine. Noticing the coral grown around the floor and other sea type plants that were being grown in this small spot of the town.

"While this is an incredible sight and great relief to see your people thriving underwater. What does Wynter have to do with being your Diva?"

Revenant speaks out both in his being kind to the Ceto living here in peace and how Wynter was involved with the merfolk. The others looked at the zombie as if he was possibly trying to get a reaction from Miriam to see if there was an answer to his question, she merely nodded as she decided to take them somewhere that would help answer his question. Leading them to another part of the village, Wynter went to the side and growled at Revenant for the question as it was rude to ask her about the title that was given to her.

"I'm sorry, but it's a common trend for an ancient group to stroll into town and pick someone's girlfriend to be their next leader."

Responding to Wynter how he was cautious about what they might have planned for Wynter since in the past Addison had been sought after by the werewolves and aliens. Zed and Addison in the back could see the two arguing about what could going on and the intentions of what might happen to her. Zed looked at Addison to see if he could step in since this reminds them of each other and how they had arguments like this in the past.

"Rev? Wynter? While I am curious about what exactly is going on. Maybe we should hold off on the questions since we're going to get them answered right now?"

Asking the two that instead of arguing they should listen to what Miriam was about to show them since they were going they answered. The two merely gave zed a glare since this was between them which left Zed a bit nervous to step in as he went by Addison's side since they needed some space. While they continued to talk, the four didn't realize about Miriam bringing them to a small home with numerous carvings and symbols written on the walls.

"It's time I give you a proper Ceto lesson."

Stating to them as she guided them through the carvings showing them the Ceto history starting with them living amongst the ocean with the aquatic life. Each one more beautiful than the last, the four saw how the Ceto were able to befriend any type of fish or mammal that came across their path.

"For years we've spent our time in the waters of civilization without being disturbed, to peacefully swim with all life. That was until one of our own was caught by accident from a human vessel."

Starting the tale with the Ceto remaining silent to the world and avoiding any type of detection. Though it ended sadly with the next carving showing what looked like a young girl getting caught in a sailor's net, which lead to the consequences of the Ceto seeking the child from the humans. There was turmoil due to that the sea belonged to humans and the Ceto should leave their waters, this led to conflict and fighting amongst both species.

"After avoiding the attacks and retreating to our island. There was a terrible storm, one that devastated both sides and caused us to sink into the ocean. Along the humans to have their ships destroyed."

Showing the next part of her story which was a gruesome sight which was the Ceto's original home as well as the human sailors who were right at their feet. Only for a storm to split the two sides and cause both of them to deal with terrible outcomes, the four felt sorry for what happened to Miriam and her people along with seeing why they were ready to attack the humans when they arrived on the beach.

"Before the downfall of our home, Cepheus told us of a prophecy about a wolf leading us to a new home when the crisis would come to our shores. That a wolf would howl above the moonlight and lead us to a new home. Which is happening now."

Miriam explained the last part and how the next craving took their breath away seeing that image looked similar to Wynter, from her hairstyle to that of her eyes and makeup. Wynter herself was trying to coop with this as it was just the same when Wyatt told Addison about being the alpha who'd guide them to the moonstone. Rev saw how his girlfriend admired the imagery of what looked like her and understood why everyone viewed her like a goddess, he still felt unsure if this was possible.

"But what comes next?"

Addison asked about what the next step was since they already have their Diva and have most of their people awake. Miriam pointed towards the other carvings on the wall which showed the wolf girl leading the Ceto to a new home for them upon a full moon.

"There will be a ceremony in welcoming the diva, and preparations for her to allow everyone to travel to the surface world. Most of the beings you saw had trained to survive the surface, everyone needs the diva's voice here to allow them to breathe."

Explaining that the Ceto they met were warriors and could handle the air, everyone else was civilians that were required to remain in the water. Taking a look at the imagery on the wall and the figure appearing to Wynter standing above the Ceto and leading them to the surface made the werewolf almost frightened by this mission of hers.

"Mighty Diva."

A voice calling out to Wynter made her jump a bit along with the others due to how tense the story made them feel and kept them in suspense didn't notice Cepheus watching from the distance observing Wynter learning about her destiny. Taking a moment to calm themselves, the group gave their attention to the elder Ceto.

"Our feast is ready to welcome you, as well as the news to be announced. If you'd follow."

Pointing his anchor staff to an area where they can enjoy themselves and enjoy the hospitality of the merfolk. With how much swimming they did along with getting a lesson in their culture, it seemed about right to get something to eat. Following him down to where the feast was being served, the only ones left to look at the wall craving was still much for them to take in.

"How are you feeling?"

Revenant asked Wynter to see how she was processing this information about her helping out the Ceto and leading them to the surface so they could adapt to Seabrook. Meanwhile, the wolf girl was feeling both anxious and scared about it all since she didn't realize how important she was to the Ceto and why they admired her.

"Scared, literally. I'd never imagined being this important before since I've always tried to be the fiercest, but right now. I don't know how to approach it."

Admitting to him that out of the times they've dealt with numerous moments that would scare the average human or zombie. This was a lot for her to take in, and more importantly, admitting being scared since this was all on her and just herself. Rev did the only thing that Zed would do if Addison was upset about anything, he placed an arm around her to try and comfort her to the best of his ability.

"I'm not going to let you deal with this alone. Especially letting you sing your heart without protection, besides. Every diva needs an assistant to help out."

Promising her that he was going make sure this didn't overwhelm her and make sure the Ceto didn't pressure her. The last part made Wynter smile at how he was supporting her just after he learned how important it was for Wynter to help out the merfolk. The couple shared a smile before heading down to where the feast was being held for Wynter, not noticing from the side was Cepheus who looked at staff seeing the two lines edged into it. The last two weren't scratched as this made him look serious towards the two seeing how it was urgent, he scratched them out before the ceremony could commence.


Later in the village

Settling in the Ceto village and being shown the numerous courses of meals being served to the four of them, they were being offered dishes that involved numerous fruits and fish meat presented to them. Each of them was preserved due to them being taken with the people when they were taken by the sea but looked like they were picked just yesterday. Zed was checking out a curious fried fish that looked like the combination of a piranha and salmon, he was nervous to eat and noticed the others curious about what the football player would think of it.

"Zed? I think you should take a bite before the shark bites. They're right over there."

Addison suggested trying the food that was being offered and he noticed by the side the Ceto's fish companion, which was sharks they managed to tame and have by the side eating several fishes along staring at the zombie. Not taking a chance to provoke them or the merfolk, taking a bite out of the fish it had seemed to fill his mouth with sweetness as well as make him grow a smile upon eating the fist.

"This is really good fish."

Complimenting the cooks as the Ceto smiled humbly to Zed for his words of kindness since it had been years since any outsider took delight in their food. Meanwhile, Revenant and Wynter, they were having numerous fruits that would help strengthen the diva's body and voice for when the ceremony started. By the table were Miriam and Cepheus smiling at how things were going and the werewolf enjoying the food.

"This is what you would consider what most humans called 'oranges', though under our care have been maintained as been given the proper means of flavor for the diva."

Cepheus explained what made the orange different from Seabrook's fruits as Wynter could tell it was much sweeter than the usual fruits she's eaten. Rev didn't much mind as he still was curious about the ceremony that was planned for his girlfriend and would question what was going to happen.

"Thank you for your hospitality and food, but I'd still like to know what exactly Wynter needs to help the Ceto."

Asking the two of them how it would commence in which the two glared at him seeing how he was questioning what was going to happen. Miriam looked to her elder so he could explain the preparation for Wynter since it was an important moment for the merfolk.

"It won't be that big we can assure you. We will gather together upon the carvings of our history; there the moon will shine upon Wynter. Will use her voice to allow all Ceto to survive the surface and make a new home for us."

Informing him that it wouldn't be too large to overwhelm Wynter and be subtle for the werewolf. While it seemed good since the young adults were known for big moments involving festivities, Rev was getting the notion that there was more to this celebration than just keeping it small. Miriam realized the zombie's look would have to inform them about an important detail that was needed for the ceremony.

"Along with that for everything to go just as it should, the diva must have total concentration and must do it on her own. With no one of affiliation around her."

Bringing up a rather upsetting moment for them as it mean no one that Wynter knew could witness her helping the merfolk and how the ceremony would go. This made the others both confused and upset since Wynter had her pack which would want to see one of them help a group such as this, along with that, wanted to make sure she had people that would support her during the event.

"Miriam, while we don't like to intrude on anyone and want to work with people who wish for help. It's just we're concerned about what happens since I've been in this exact moment. Maybe we can..."

Addison tried to suggest an alternative means for them to support Wynter which led to Cepheus slamming his anchor staff onto the floor which made everyone's heart jump at how he silenced Addison. This made Zed rather upset since she was only trying to help, though he kept patient since he wanted to speak out to them.

"For our people to fully find a home. The diva must have concentration, no one can distract her."

Responding to Addison in a serious tone expressing how important it was for Wynter to do the ceremony without anything to distract her. Her friends now got upset since the previous times they let one of their own surrounded by people they don't know that much about. Noticing how both sides were ready to argue about how it wasn't right for them to observe the ceremony on what Wynter will be doing, the werewolf hits the table stopping the two sides from starting the argument.

"I'll do it. If it's to get things over with."

Wynter told everyone that she'd do this since the drama between the Ceto and her friends was getting out of hand. Growling at how this was too much she knew the only way to handle the moment was to let her be the one in charge.

"Ever since I came to Seabrook, I've always been sidelined by either my leader or everyone else that seemed more important. And I'm tired of being here listening to everyone fighting, now it's my turn to start a fight."

Responding to how many times she's been in the middle of everything without her doing anything, right now it was for her to make a choice and handle the problem. Rev and the others never saw this side of her of getting agitated quickly, he was going to try and reason why they were being protective of her. Though it was interrupted by her growling at him and toward several musicians that were going to perform for them. Snapping her fingers quickly caused the Ceto to play their instruments in an upbeat rhythm, taking the chance Cepheus had the merfolk move the tables due to how Wynter was going sing for them and prove her response towards her friends.

"My memories so good and awful, it seems they gave me a grudge. But I have left bitterness and resentment behind me, and it is all thanks to them."

Starting her song in an aggressive tone and looking at the three in which they were confused about what came over Wynter all of a sudden. Across the area were most of the Ceto warriors joining the performance bringing torches and spinning them around in a pattern to keep the others away from Wynter.

"Oh look, it's the clowns who think they know. How crushing loneliness can be, you know nothing 'til you come with me!"

Stating to the merfolk as they let out an aquatic yell which sounded like a banshee which made Rev and the others cover their ears. They didn't notice in front of them the Ceto blowing fire at them in an intimating manner letting their diva perform in all her glory.

"And run wild! Release your rage. Let the winds of wrath blow them away, not gonna live in compliance, I'm not playin' the victim no more! Time to go rage, let's punish them all. For their love, I'm done trying to trust, not gonna live in compliance. Gonna play with fire, backlit by the flames!"

Wynter shouted out loud for the village to hear which sparked what seemed to be an inner warrior in each of the merfolk as they gathered around to listen to her. Zed and Addison saw how Rev looked concerned about what was happening and tried to make his way towards her but was stopped by Miriam who pointed her trident at him. Though the dark sea warrior was stopped by Wynter who wanted her to bring Revenant towards her.

"By the end, everything turned to green, it was brutal yet so beautiful. A kind of green, pulls you in, and won't let you look away. Make you feel a bit feverish."

Singing towards him as Miriam guided Revenant right at her feet which made him feel scared for her and how she was acting. While he tried to stop her and speak to her, Wynter stopped him and controlled the moment as she held him close and saw the look in her eye at how to determine she was about the situation.

"Emerald jade lit up from behind, so bright'll make you go blind. Hypnotizing every eye that sees its green aura blazing, held captive by the allure."

Possibly talking about him due to Rev being the only zombie in town with green pupils and she was attracted to them when they first met. Meanwhile on the side were Zed and Addison trying to get close to them but were unable to because of the Ceto people keeping them at a distance. Wynter, entranced by the music moved around Revenant keeping him confused and keeping his attention on her.

"My heart got tangled up bad and now it's frayed, no matter how much I've learned. I understand that my anger's here to stay, the words rush out."

Continuing to go on until the last part as she pushed him to the ground in a surprising manner and letting out a howl which made the other Ceto rush at him. Moving out of the way, he saw them breathing fire from the torches to light up the area which made Revenant keep his distance. Meanwhile, Wynter rushed towards the table and leaped upwards for everyone to see her.

"And run wild! Release your rage. Let the winds of wrath blow them away, not gonna live in compliance, I'm not playin' the victim no more! Time to go rage, let's punish them all. For their love, I'm done trying to trust, not gonna live in compliance. Gonna play with fire, backlit by the flames!"

Shouting at everyone continuously to get them fired up along with letting out their inner warrior which was shocking since most of the people looked innocent. During the whole commotion, Addison noticed by the tables was everyone's plates didn't have the orange that Cepheus talked about to Wynter, taking her chance with her friend singing. She snuck off to take it since there seemed to be more to this sudden change of personality. Meanwhile, Wynter slowed the musicians down setting the tone for her moment.

"Though my anger exhausts me and I fall apart, my actions may cost me to stay but I can't leave them all alone."

Wynter tells everyone about the emotions she was feeling and how the story Miriam told her about leaving her to not leave the Ceto. Walking down from the table, Cepheus tapped the bottom of his anchor which alerted most of the Ceto to rush Wynter and give her new clothing.

"I know if you would listen, you would understand. It's time you leave this water world. You showed to me, and time to move on."

Telling her friends this didn't sound like Wynter since she's always put the pack and her friends as her priority in almost everything. Suddenly the Ceto moved away showing her friends the new clothing that Wynter was given, similar to a warrior's look like Miriam. Wynter's clothing had several jewels around her belt appearing that of a queen. Staring at her friends like a whole different person, she rose her fist in the air causing the Ceto to yell to show she was their diva.

"And run wild! Release your rage. Let the winds of wrath blow them away, not gonna live in compliance, I'm not playin' the victim no more! Time to go rage, let's punish them all. For their love, I'm done trying to trust, not gonna live in compliance. Gonna play with fire, backlit by the flames!"

Ending her song and walked away from the others to join the Ceto to handle the ceremony, meanwhile, the three saw several Ceto guards going to escort them back home to begin the event. Not wanting to start a fight and make a scene, Revenant had no choice but to oblige and leave with Zed and Addison confused about what happened. Cepheus on the other hand watched took a look at his staff crossing off another line on it seeing all three lines crossed out, leaving one left. Unknowing himself, Addison still had the orange from Wynter's table as she was getting the sense that there was something wrong with the Ceto. And she was going to figure it out before it was too late.


The song used for this chapter is 'Backlight' by Ado and all rights to the song belong to her. Stay tune to see what happens next for the gang.