Round 194

The collapsing passage forces a change in plans. Varrika takes the lead with her heavy mace ready, while Merrin follows closely, crossbow at the ready for any threats that might emerge from the darkness ahead. The narrow passage winds deeper into the tomb, the air growing colder and damper with each step. Suddenly, the sound of rushing water fills their ears once more, louder than before. Ahead, the passage opens into a wider chamber, and Merrin holds up her torch high.

The sight that greets them is both breathtaking and terrifying. The chamber is vast, easily several times larger than the tomb they've been exploring so far. And at its center lies a wide river, its waters rushing past with incredible speed and force. But it's not the water that draws their attention—it's what surrounds it. The entire chamber seems to be lined with ancient stone carvings, each one depicting scenes of terrible power and dark magic.

"By the goddess," Varrika breathes, her eyes wide as she takes in the sight. "What is this place?"

Merrin shakes her head slowly, her gaze fixed on the rushing waters. "I don't know. But I have a feeling we're about to find out." She raises her torch higher, trying to pierce the darkness beyond the river's edge. Something moves in the shadows there—something large and powerful, its eyes glowing with an eerie light.

"Stay close," Merrin warns, her voice low and tense. "And be ready for anything."

Varrika nods, her hand tightening on the hilt of her mace. "Aye. Let's not make ourselves easy targets."