Round 171

The ambient energy shifts dramatically as Halie extends her arms toward the swirling blue portal, palms upraised in offering. The tendrils of light surrounding her respond instantly, writhing with renewed vigor as if drawn by her invitation. Hera gasps softly from where she stands at the chamber's edge, one hand pressed against the bioluminescent wall for support. Her wide eyes track every movement of the ethereal forces playing across Halie's skin. The creature's twin orbs pulse with visible interest now, its humming tone rising in pitch to a discordant whine that sets everyone's teeth on edge.*

Jeane's hand stops mere inches from Halie's glowing shoulder, her fingers curling into a fist of barely-contained frustration. A portal? More games? She snarls, her wings half-spreading in an instinctive display of agitation despite the obvious strain of maintaining them while magically exhausted. What assurance do we have that this isn't just another layer to your... whatever-this-is? Her crimson gaze darts between Halie's ecstatic expression and the pulsing gateway behind her.*

Abby presses herself further into the shadows at the corridor junction, her heart hammering against her ribs as she watches the unfolding scene. The air here feels wrong—charged with something beyond mere electricity. She clutches the bag of adult toys tighter to her chest, their familiar weight offering little comfort against the primal unease crawling up her spine.*