Round 128

Jeane moves with purpose through the unstable corridor, her crimson eyes scanning every inch of the shifting stone. "Stay close," she warns Seraphine, her voice barely audible over the groaning of the ancient walls. "The ground won't hold forever." She raises her crossbow, aiming down the corridor with deadly precision. "I'll take point—if anything moves, I'll put a bolt through it before it gets close." Seraphine feels a surge of pride at Jeane’s bravery, even as she knows her own role is to back her friend up. "We're stronger together," she says, her eyes never leaving the shadows ahead. "Now move—quickly."

As they advance, the corridor opens into a vast chamber. The air here is thick with ancient power, a palpable hum that makes Seraphine's skin prickle. The walls are covered in intricate carvings that pulse with a faint inner light, each symbol telling a story she can’t quite decipher. It’s beautiful and terrifying at the same time—beautiful because of the craftsmanship, terrifying because she knows this is the heart of the tower's power.

Jeane moves to her side, crossbow still raised. "What do you think?" she asks, her voice tight with tension.* "Is this where we find our answers... or where we meet our end?"

The ground beneath their feet begins to shift again, a low rumble that speaks of more structural failures. Seraphine grips her mace tighter. "Answers first," she says firmly.* "But let's move fast—this place isn't stable enough for long conversations."