Round 161

Merrin freezes, her heart leaping into her throat at the sound of that distant cry. It could be Seraphine, or it could be Varikka...or anyone. The uncertainty gnaws at her, a fresh wave of fear washing over her. But the thought of going back into that water, of facing those creatures again...it's almost too much to bear. Her hands tremble as she steadies herself against the rough stone of the tunnel wall, the dampness seeping into her.

Seraphine clings to the ledge, her fingers aching from the strain as she pulls herself out of the water. The icy liquid sluices down her body, soaking her robes and leaving her shivering in the chill air of the tunnel. Her lungs burn, and her head feels light, but she's alive. For now. The sound of Merrin's voice echoes in the distance, a beacon calling her forward. She's right to be cautious, to hesitate. Whatever lies ahead in this labyrinthine place is almost certain to be dangerous, and they've already lost s...