In Message, a lone figure appears at sunrise and refuses to move as it sets off a chain of fear, speculation, and grim realization. As Tarian, Keldon, Sherry, and Caleb confront the creature’s intentions, the truth becomes undeniable: not all of this world’s threats charge the walls. Some do something far more devastating. They offer a smile.
This chapter turns stillness and inaction into suspense. What begins as an eerie standoff becomes a chilling revelation when the shapeshifter reveals its intentions. If you enjoy tense sci-fi moments where danger arrives quietly before the storm, this installment won’t disappoint.
Creeping is the blues track paired with this episode. Its slow, stalking pulse mirrors the dread building on the ramparts. Its rhythm and atmospheric tone amplify the creature’s unnerving patience and the quiet terror of a message delivered with a smile.
As this entry in Colonization was being penned, I needed a way to wrap up my ideas. Going into this tale, I knew it was the penultimate entry of the series, so I wanted to build the tension and amplify it to an eleven before heading into the conclusion. This story highlights how known threats evolve and how even a fortified wall can’t protect against the unknown lurking just out of sight.
📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for weekly original stories, original blues music, and magical storytelling.
🛡️ New episodes every week, don’t miss what’s coming next.
If you enjoyed the story and are looking for something else consider my book, Dead Man’s Hand
Click here or use Rumble, if you prefer, to experience this mingling of story and music that is good for the soul.
Tarian clambered to the wall’s edge and stared into the barren field. When he discovered a solitary figure, his fingers turned white around the gray stones. “That’s a massive creature. What is it? When did it arrive?”
“I’m not sure what’s out there, but it’s been there since the sun came up,” Keldon said, closing his eyes.
“Keldon, who’s our best surviving sharpshooter?” Tarian’s gaze turned ice cold as his lips curled into a snarl. “Bring that individual here and destroy that monster!”
Keldon lifted his telescope and studied the distant creature. When the scope lowered, he tapped it against the wall. “Given the recent attack, there’s a significant chance it’s a shapeshifter.”
“Does it matter what it is?” Sherry stepped in front of Keldon, her hands on hips. “Tarian’s right. One of our marksmen could end the threat.”
“I’m more concerned with whatever’s beyond our field of view.” Keldon laid a hand on Tarian’s shoulder, pulling him close. “That thing’s the tip of the oncoming storm.”
Sherry threaded her fingers through her hair as she stared at the creature. “Why are you trying to distract us from the simple solution?”
Keldon’s fist slammed the wall as he glared at Sherry. “We’re not in a position to defend ourselves from another assault.”
Sherry blanched as she gripped her chest. “We’re prepared for this kind of situation, right?”
“Unfortunately, Lloyd’s dead.” Tarian stepped up to the wall and examined the towering monster. With a hiss, Tarian spun around and leaned against the wall, collapsing to the floor. “Besides, a pair of shapeshifters tried to steal a significant amount of our ordnance.
.
.
.
Or if you would simply prefer to read the story, click here.
Have a wonderful day my friends!