Mid-autumn rains have set in across Saltmere, but disciplined community work has kept the settlement secure and dry through the wet weather.

### Brine Pools and Pan Foundations

Perimeter drainage ditches successfully diverted rainwater runoff away from the brine pools, preventing freshwater from flooding or diluting the concentrated brine. On an inland pan, Nessa carried out a low-intensity test boil using salvaged driftwood and deadfall, ensuring the core dry billets remained untouched for domestic heating. Fen monitored the western bank at low water throughout the test; the packed clay and turf sod reinforcement held solid under low heat, showing no signs of cracking, slumping, or renewed seepage.

### Fuel, Stores, and Village Life

At the hollow shelter, work parties split the freshly cut willow and alder billets into thin laths and stacked them on stringers beneath the thatched roof. The thinner cuts are curing under the open-sided shelter to accelerate seasoning in the autumn breeze while remaining protected from rain.

Orin kept the two fishing skiffs safely inshore, launching only during calm weather windows to avoid risk in rising autumn swells. Sava’s drying racks were positioned in the shelter beside the longhouses, allowing the cured catch to finish drying cleanly without risk from the rain. Daro’s weekly storehouse inspections confirmed that the lifted roots, grain, peas, and cured fish remain entirely free of mold. In the evenings, families gathered around shared longhouse hearths, combining warmth to stretch dry fuel reserves.

### Creek Reconnaissance and the Northern Shore

Following the shingle path north past the marker beach, Evi and a companion reached the southern bank of the northern creek under cover of the dunes. From a concealed vantage, they observed an active boat yard on the opposite bank, noting timber sleds, an overhauled fishing craft, and permanent thatched dwellings. This confirms a substantial, permanent neighboring settlement situated just across the creek. Having observed the shore without making contact or being detected, Evi and her companion withdrew safely to Saltmere before nightfall.

### Visible Costs and Immediate Pressures

As mid-autumn closes, several unresolved pressures face Saltmere heading into late autumn:
- **Fuel Reserves:** While splitting billets into thin laths accelerates drying, the green wood under the hollow shelter is still curing and cannot yet be burned clean. Dry billets remain strictly reserved for domestic heating as cold weather approaches.
- **Salt Production:** The reinforced bank withstood low-heat testing without seepage, but full boiling has not resumed. Sustained production remains limited by available drift fuel and the bank's endurance under full working heat.
- **Seasonal Weather:** Stronger late-autumn winds, intermittent frost, and wetter conditions are expected next. These will further restrict travel on the sound and limit outdoor drying.
- **The Northern Presence:** A substantial settlement with boat-repair capability is now confirmed across the northern creek. While Saltmere remains undetected, decisions regarding trade, contact, or continued concealment must soon be made.