Round 362

Merrin's heart leaps as Varikka manages to pull herself onto the ledge, but her relief is short-lived when she sees the water lapping at her friend's feet. "Varikka!" she cries out, wading through the knee-deep water towards her. "Are you okay? That was too close." She reaches out to steady Varikka, her own legs trembling with exhaustion and the cold. "We need to get moving. The water's rising faster than I thought it would."

As they make their way towards the tunnel opening, Merrin keeps a watchful eye on the circling creature, ready to defend if needed. But for now, its attention seems focused on the rising water. "Do you think that thing is controlling the water somehow?" she mutters to Varikka.

They reach the base of the tunnel opening, which rises at a steep angle up to a dark opening in the ceiling. "This looks like our best bet," Merrin says, eyeing the slippery stone surface with concern. "But it's going to be a tough climb. Think you can manage it?"

Varikka nods determinedly, despite her obvious pain. "I'll make it. Just... give me a moment." She takes a deep breath, then starts to climb, using her good hand and feet to find purchase on the rough stone.

Merrin watches anxiously as Varikka ascends, ready to offer support if needed. But her attention is drawn back to the water when she hears a loud crack echo through the chamber. "Shit," she mutters, seeing a large section of the floor near the center beginning to collapse. "Varikka, hurry! The whole damn room's coming down!"