There was a giant squid type of creature from the Dread Empress... It seems quite possible that she is likely to be interfering again.

It worries me that the Thalassian Empire may be causing a great deal of bloodshed, though. Whatever happens, supporting the rebel mermaids and doing our best to counter the Dread Empress is imperative for the survival not only of our past friends and acquaintances, but for the healthy future of the sea trade in that world.