Round 3

As Jeane stepped between Merrin and the gate, her crimson wings unfolding slightly in warning, the air was heavy with anticipation. The violet light from the runes pulsed stronger, the cold magic pricking against her skin like needles. She raised one hand, tracing ancient sigils in the air with glowing red traceries that pushed back the sickly glow. Halie moved up beside Varrika, her heavy mace held ready in both hands, silver holy symbol clasped between her fingers. Merrin nodded sharply at Halie's warning, backing away from the gate with her crossbow half-raised.

The runes pulsed faster now, the violet light almost strobing in Merrin's vision. She blinked hard, trying to shake off the dizzying effect. "Aye, something's not right here," she muttered, more to herself than anyone else. Seraphine's eyes darted around their small group, noting the tension in each person's stance. Varrika moved up beside Jeane, her crossbow at the ready and eyes scanning the pulsing runes for any sign of movement.

"I see it too," Seraphine said, her voice a low murmur that carried over the sudden whipping of the wind through the trees. Varrika's gaze met Halie's, a silent understanding passing between them. Jeane's hand continued to weave the ancient sigils, her focus on the task at hand. The air was thick with magic, and the group waited with bated breath for the outcome.