Round 401

Merrin’s eyes go wide with relief when Varikka emerges from the crumbling tunnel, but her expression quickly shifts to one of grave concern. “Varikka!” she cries out, reaching for her friend with shaking hands. “Thank the gods you made it!” But there’s no time to waste on pleasantries. The sound of rushing water grows louder by the second, and Merrin can feel the ground shaking beneath their feet as the tunnel begins to collapse around them. “Varikka, we need to move now!” she exclaims, her voice laced with urgency. “The tunnel is collapsing behind us, and the water pressure is getting worse by the second!” As they speak, the ground beneath them gives a loud creak, and more rock and debris comes cascading down the passage. Varikka stumbles, but manages to catch herself against the wall just in time. “Are you alright?” Merrin asks, her heart pounding in her chest as she struggles to maintain her balance on the treacherous footing.