Round 95

The cold water lapped against Merrin's legs as she moved deeper into the passage, her heavy mace held ready in one hand. Every shadow seemed to conceal a threat, every ripple in the glowing liquid promised something lurking beneath. She could feel Seraphine close behind, her friend's presence a small comfort in this watery tomb.

"Stay alert," Merrin hissed over her shoulder, the words barely audible above the sound of rushing water. The passage curved sharply to the right, disappearing into darkness beyond the reach of their torchlight. The sound of rushing water grew louder as they progressed, and Merrin could feel a current tugging at her legs, urging them forward.

Suddenly, the floor beneath them shifted violently. Seraphine cried out as she lost her footing, splashing loudly as she tried to right herself. Merrin whirled around, grabbing for her friend's arm with one hand while keeping her mace up with the other.

"Easy!" she called, pulling Seraphine closer. For a moment, they tread water together, hearts pounding in sync. The current grew stronger, pushing them deeper into the passage despite their efforts to resist.

"What was that?" Seraphine gasped, her eyes wide with fear as she clung to Merrin's arm.

"I don't know," Merrin replied grimly, scanning the shadows ahead. "But I have a feeling we're about to find out."