Round 386 Transcript

Varikka's fist connects with the Guardian's chest, causing it to stumble back. The creature's chest plate cracks under the blow, revealing a glimmer of dark energy beneath. As the Guardian struggles to regain its footing, Varikka notices that the rising water pressure is accelerating, with waves lapping at her feet with increasing ferocity.

As Varikka lunges at the Guardian, I watch in horror, my heart pounding. The rogue's mace swings wildly as she grapples with the dark being. "Varikka!" I shout, but my voice is drowned out by the crackling energy. I see Merrin slumped on the ground, her lifeless body still clutching her dagger. Grief and rage surge through me. No more of us can die here. The fighter's desperate move gives me a chance. As Varikka's mace cracks the Guardian's chestplate, I spot the dark energy pulsing beneath. My eyes narrow in determination. "Keep fighting!" I call to Varikka. "I've got an idea!"

Ducking low, I dash under the Guardian's flailing arms. The creature's dark aura singes my skin, but I grit my teeth and press on. Reaching Merrin's body, I snatch up her dagger, the weight of it familiar in my hand. "Merrin," I whisper. "I'm so sorry." Clutching her blade and mine, I surge to my feet. Varikka's next blow sends the Guardian staggering back, but the water is rising faster than ever. Dark energy ripples out from the creature, spreading into the churning flood. "We have to stop it now!" I shout to Varikka over the roaring water. "Its power is in its chest!"

I take a deep breath and charge at the Guardian, both daggers raised high. The creature lashes out with tendrils of darkness, but I dodge, striking again and again at that crack in its chestplate. "Varikka!" I call, not taking my eyes off our foe. "We end this together!"

I feel Varikka's presence at my side as we press our attack. The Guardian roars in pain and fury, but we do not relent. This is our last chance. We will not fail.