Round 56

The ground trembled beneath them once more, each THRUM-THRUM-THUD echoing through the tunnel system like a countdown to some ancient, malevolent purpose. Silra swiftly adjusted her stance, her eyes locked onto the glowing runes that pulsed ominously in sync with each vibration. Sister Hale knelt beside Gravedigger Renn, her silver holy symbol casting a faint glow on the walls as she felt the pressure intensify against their formation. The air was heavy with the stench of terror-smell, fueling the ancient presence that pulsed through the plates like a dark tide.

Gravedigger Renn's convulsions grew more violent, his body trembling against the wall as he screamed incoherently, his fear feeding the hungry runes on the sarcophagi. Silra swiftly readjusted her stance, her eyes fixed intently on the pulsing runes as she tested the response to the pressure plates' shifting rhythm. The ground trembled beneath their feet, counting down seconds before something awakens fully, and the party held their breath, waiting for the decision that would determine their fate.

Sister Hale's eyes locked onto the glowing runes, her expression set in a determined mask as she felt the pressure intensify against their formation. Each THRUM was a countdown, a test of their coordination and worthiness, and she knew that whatever was buried down there was measuring their Intent through pressure. The ground erupted in a maelstrom of sound and fury, and the party was left with an impossible decision: would they be worthy of response, or just more prey?