Round 400

The sound of cracking stone fills the air as the tunnel collapses around Varikka, sending a cascade of rocks tumbling down the narrow passage. She throws herself against the far wall just in time to avoid being crushed by the falling debris. "Merrin!" she screams, her voice echoing off the crumbling walls as she frantically calls out for her companion. The water rushes around her ankles now, threatening to sweep her off her feet at any moment. She can feel the cold sweat beading on her brow as she struggles to catch her breath.

Varikka knows she should be searching for an alternative escape route, but her heart is pounding with fear for Merrin's safety. With trembling hands, she draws her heavy mace, using it as a makeshift staff to keep her balance on the treacherous footing. The water is already up to her knees now, and she can feel its pressure increasing with every passing second.

"Merrin!" she calls out again, her voice cracking with desperation. "Where are you?"