Round 287

The creature's advance was measured, deliberate—each step an escalation. Its fingers extended toward her, claws catching what little light remained, promising violation. The humming intensified, vibrating through her bones until it felt like her teeth might shatter from the pressure. Hera's eyes held hers across the space between them, recognition and malice intertwined in their depths. The walls responded instantly—living stone flexing and twisting as if waking from slumber. The air grew thick with decay and electricity, making each breath a conscious effort. Then came the sound of stone grinding against stone. A section of wall slid open, revealing another passage descending into darkness.