Round 178

Merrin's eyes widen as she sees the glowing orbs emerging from the depths of the lake. She backs away instinctively, her hand reaching for her crossbow before remembering it's gone. "By the Goddess..." She mutters, her gaze fixed on the watery surface. The orbs seem to be moving towards her, and Merrin feels a chill run down her spine that has nothing to do with the cold water soaking her clothes.

Her mind races, trying to process the situation. She knows she should retreat, but something about the creatures' movements makes her hesitate. They're not charging at her aggressively—they seem almost...curious. Merrin takes a tentative step forward, her heart pounding in her chest. "Hello?" She calls out softly, her voice barely audible over the sound of rushing water.

The orbs pause their approach, as if waiting for her next move. Merrin swallows hard, then slowly lowers herself into a crouch, bringing herself closer to eye level with the glowing entities. "I mean no harm," she says, her words measured and calm despite the adrenaline coursing through her veins. "Can we... talk?"