Well, who would have thought that it would be her and Freddie against the world. Meer spared him a glance that was almost grateful as they approached the bank. With trepidation, she plucked up a stick and - at somewhat of a loss - jabbed it into the water. Some of the substance clung to the branch and Miriam brought it closer to her face, gave it a sniff only to find a convenient coppery smell.

"It's blood," she said, dropping the stick to the ground. In a panic, Miriam reached to grab onto her brother-in-law's arm. "Shite. The water's becoming blood, Freddie."

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