Above him, the whale’s fin trembled. The water hummed with a low sound—maybe a groan, a cry, or a warning. John worked faster. In his mind, he heard every wildlife show that described orcas as apex predators—fast, smart, deadly.
If it spins, you’re done. He drove the knife down one last time—snap. The final piece of net broke. Suddenly the orca moved, twisting its body with a strong roll. Its tall dorsal fin smacked the surface, soaking John in spray. He flinched, shielding his face.