22
The Out-Dweller
The Out-Dweller moved quickly, more quickly than the pace of its footsteps would have suggested. In the darkness, Melanie almost could not follow its progress toward the sisters' building. She realized she was more than trembling; she was shaking from head to toe, the Out-Dweller's presence had affected her so. Part of her mind recoiled at her reaction, shouting defiance at the fear and demanding she get ahold of herself and Do. Something.
The more sensible part of herself replied that the best thing to do was keep back, out of sight, and pray the beast did not notice her.
It did not seem to. It kept to its course, a darker shadow that made the other shadows recoil in terror as it sped toward its target.
And then it stopped cold, and for an instant Melanie beheld it
