Two days trip from the village, two days! Why her mother couldn't build it somewhere nearer? There were other lakes within easy reach. Sure, this one had an unusual sandy beach but still. Two days!<br/><br/>Lena was walking vigorously through the forest. Maybe she was taller and heavier than average elf but still she was moving swiftly, easily finding the way between trees. As she expected she reached the lake at the evening. The hut was there, sealed, waiting for her arrival, as always. With a sigh of relief she opened the door and threw her backpack to the ground. The smell of dried herbs and smoke usual for this place was barely perceptible after five months of her absence.<br/><br/>Lena unpacked the blanket and lied down falling asleep immediately. She was at home, finally.<br/><br/>In the middle of the night she was awakened by a mighty increasing flap, followed by a loud splash. Something big landed in the water splashing it all around, including the hut. Lena  jumped out from her bed, scared. She had no clue what could happen, but the silence outside encouraged her. After a moment of hesitation she repealed the door and looked outside. It was dark there, only stars were shining on the clear early summer sky. A scream froze in her throat constricted with fear. A huge creature was standing on the beach.<br/>