The family sat, and Harrison appeared from the small doorway to the right of the stage. The shifting congregation settled as he stepped up to the podium and spread his arms to open with morning prayer. We joined him, our voices rising as one.

“With true sight and pure hearts, we come before you, God of righteousness, and we commit ourselves to your laws. We ask that you lead us away from sin as we fend off the evil that threatens our holiness. Let the earth be ravaged by your perfect wrath, and let us stand apart, your chosen flock and faithful servants. Amen.”

The Chapel fell silent. Rose stood and made her way to stand beside him at the front of the stage. With a nod at him, she turned to face us.

“As you all know, the foundation of our community has been shaken to its core in the last several days. It would be reasonable to assume many of you have questions. I asked that we trust the sensibilities of Jamie Weathers as he wandered out beyond the perimeter. I would ask that you trust his voice now. His survival is not without purpose.”

She nodded at Jamie, who stood, stepped into the main aisle and walked to the stage. A curious hush held the people of Haven Valley, but I could almost hear their concerns.

Jamie faced the gathering, face flat, eyes bright. “I have seen the face of darkness released on this world,” he began. “It spoke to me, whispering its vile hatred, and told me the worst is yet to come. We’ve wondered if the Fury have finished their purge of the earth and left it in peace, but I’m here to tell you that they feed on souls still and are more vicious and monstrous than we could have imagined.”

Every eye was glued to Jamie. I could see the pain and fear that now filled my brother’s eyes, and my pulse quickened.

“We have to be more careful than ever. Darkness masquerading as light seeks to steal our holiness. We have to resist the temptation to look for hope in anything but what Rose has taught us. We must maintain purity and vigilance until the last day.”

The crowd stirred as he spoke. Fear spread over them as the idea of what he was suggesting sank in.

“Are you saying we aren’t safe inside Haven Valley?” Colin asked, breaking the silence. “I thought we were protected inside the perimeter.”

“The perimeter keeps us safe from the Fury as long as we remain true,” Jamie said. “As long as we are pure, they’re powerless.” He hesitated. “But that doesn’t mean they aren’t among us already, whispering their temptations even as they whispered them to me.”

Many gasped.