Round 328 Transcript

As Varikka helps Merrin to her feet, the sound of rushing water grows louder, and the ledge creaks ominously beneath their feet. The waves lap at the stone, threatening to wash them off into the depths. Suddenly, a loud crack echoes through the chamber once again, and a section of the wall begins to shift ominously. "We have to find higher ground," Varikka continues, her eyes scanning the chamber for a way up. The ground beneath Merrin's feet gives way with a deafening roar, and she stumbles back against the wall, clutching her injured leg in pain. Varikka rushes to her side, helping her steady herself. "Merrin, are you alright?" she asks, her voice shaking with concern. As they stand there, the water pressure increases exponentially, causing the stone walls to shudder and tremble. The unstable footing on the slippery stone passage floor makes every step a precarious one. Varikka's eyes narrow as she looks around the chamber, searching for a way out. She notices a series of narrow ledges and crevices in the wall, partially hidden by the darkness. "I think I see a way up," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "But we'll have to move fast. The water's rising faster than ever."

I squint into the darkness, trying to make out the ledges Varikka spotted. My leg is on fire, but I push through the pain, knowing we can't afford to stay put. "Alright, let's do this," I say, my voice tight. "But we need to be careful - one wrong move and we could end up in the drink." I take a deep breath, steeling myself for the climb ahead. "Lead the way, Varikka. And keep an eye out for any more falling rocks - I've had enough of getting pelted today."

I nod grimly at Merrin's words, my eyes scanning the dark chamber for any sign of movement from above. "Stay close," I mutter, bracing myself against the wall as I step onto the first narrow ledge. The stone is slick with moisture, and I have to fight to keep my balance as I inch my way upward. "It's going to be a tight squeeze," I call back over my shoulder. "But it beats the alternative."