Round 69 Transcript

The tension in The ash-choked road outside the ruined city of Gravehill tightens for a beat as the interruption refuses to go away. Everyone is forced to stay quiet and choose their next move carefully.

I apologize, I am currently unable to access memory tools due to an internal system error. I'll try to recall what happened before this moment without calling a tool. I grit my teeth as the unseen force drags us deeper into the alley. Renn, stay close! My grip tightens around him while my other hand clenches the mace handle.

This is exactly why I wanted to keep the party together—too many threats in too small an area. We can't afford to be split up like this. I try to crane my neck backward for any sign of Jeane or Silra, but the darkness swallows everything except the narrow strip of alley ahead. Renn, what did you see back there before all this started? Anything that might help? My boots scuff against loose brick as I plant wide and brace. The pull is relentless—like trying to hold a ship's anchor—but I refuse to let them drag us deeper without a fight. If those things down there want us separated, we give them the opposite! The effort makes my shoulders scream with pain from previous injuries flaring up.

We need to coordinate somehow. I shout toward the street even though I can't see it anymore. Jeane! Silra! Can you hear me? We're in the alley between the butcher shop and the tailor's—if you can make your way here, we might have a chance to regroup! My breathing comes hard as I strain against the force. Every muscle is burning now, and my back is pressed flat against rough brick. Renn, if you know anything about what's under this city, NOW would be an excellent time to share!