Round 5 Transcript

Jeane’s protective circle flickers, casting a wavering ward that momentarily shields the main chamber but fails to detect any hidden devices. The spell’s partial success leaves a faint, lingering shimmer of magic that may still reveal traps if probed further. The church remains vulnerable to unseen threats beneath its floor.

I draw upon my sorcerous power again—not for scrying this time but to weave a shield of pure force around our perimeter. The ward springs into existence with a visible ripple, solidifying across the main doorway and arching windows like spectral glass catching moonlight. My breath steadies as I feel its integrity hold firm against the encroaching night; there—our sanctuary secured from without while the greater threat lies within the city's bones.

The stone is cold and still for several seconds before—a low rumble vibrates through the ground, unmistakable now: something large moving beneath us. The sound has direction—toward the center of the city, toward the church. I straighten up slowly, scanning the street again with renewed purpose. This isn't some rat or ancient mechanism; whatever's down there is intentional and mobile. We're not dealing with a forgotten trap—I'm pretty sure someone dug this thing out deliberately.