Round 416

Merrin’s face lights up with a mix of determination and concern as she scans the larger chamber, her eyes darting from side to side. “I think I see a possible way out ahead,” she says, her voice barely above a whisper. “But we need to be careful; the ground is shifting, and I can hear that sound again—water rushing through the tunnel.” Varikka winces in pain as she takes another tentative step forward, her injured ankle protesting with every movement. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and decay, and the ground beneath them gives a faint shudder that makes her cry out in pain. Merrin hisses urgently, “Varikka, we need to move now! That sound... it's coming from the tunnel behind us.” She grabs her friend’s arm, helping support her weight as she limps forward. “Easy now,” she mutters, scanning the chamber ahead for any signs of danger. The Guardian’s voice echoes through the chamber, sending a chill down Merrin’s spine. “You fools; you think you can defy me?”