Round 149

Merrin's heart pounds in her chest as she grapples with the weight of Varikka and the iron bar, both threatening to drag her under. The icy water numbs her fingers, making it nearly impossible to maintain her grip on either. She kicks desperately, trying to keep their heads above the surface, but the current is relentless. "Varikka!" she gasps, fighting back panic. "Stay with me! Don't give up!"

The halfling's eyes dart around, searching for any sign of solid ground or escape route. The tower groans ominously, water streaming from cracks in the walls as the structure begins to fail. In the distance, she can hear Seraphine's warning about the Devourer, but there's no way to reach her friend without risking both their lives.

With a surge of adrenaline, Merrin redoubles her efforts. "I've got you!" she shouts through chattering teeth, hauling Varikka closer with sheer willpower. The tentacle loosens its grip just enough for Merrin to wrap an arm around her friend's shoulders and start swimming towards what looks like a small ledge or outcropping of stone.*

The water is freezing, the current is brutal, and every muscle in Merrin's body screams in protest. But she doesn't stop. Not when Varikka's life hangs in the balance.