Round 10 Transcript

I press my palm more firmly against the stone, feeling the goddess's light pulse stronger within me. Sisters, we cannot ignore this warning. The magic here is hungry—it wants us inside for its dark purpose. My voice carries conviction, not fear. Merrin, stand back. Varrika, guard her flanks. Jeane—I meet her gaze steadily—I won't be reckless, but I will not let ancient evil keep the faithful from sacred ground. We have come too far to turn away now. Drawing a symbol of protection in the air with my free hand, I begin a quiet invocation to the Goddess of Light. The runes on the gate respond, their darkness seeming to recoil slightly from the holy light. A narrow section of the gate begins to glow, not with magic, but with something ancient and pure—a hidden panel, perhaps, or a keyhole disguised as stone. Sisters, I believe the path through lies here, but it will demand something precious. The gate magic feeds on fear. We must face this trial together, without hesitation. I turn to Seraphine. Wise one, can you feel the disruption in the weave? Something ancient was sealed here, and whatever it is... The stone beneath my palm trembles slightly. ...it knows we've found its prison. This isn't mere locking—it's a test of faith and will. My fingers trace the glowing lines. We must break this seal with unity and purpose, not force or dark arts. The goddess speaks through this stone, giving us one chance to pass without succumbing to its corruption. I won't let our party split here—if we fail together, we'll face whatever consequences come.*

I offer my hand toward the gate's center. Place your palm beside mine, sisters. Let us prove stronger than ancient evil with unity of purpose. The goddess will guide us—we need only believe and act as one. My heart races, but my conviction burns brighter. This is our moment to claim sacred ground or be consumed by it. Choose wisely. The stone under my fingers grows warmer, the light intensifying. A low rumble echoes from deep within the structure—a hungry sound, a challenge. Hurry. The gate grows impatient.