Round 540

Merrin’s quick fingers found purchase in the cracks between stone blocks as she clung to the precarious ledge above the rising waters. The noxious gas had been thick in the air long before they reached the chamber, but now it was almost unbearable. Varrika covered her mouth with the back of her hand, trying to filter out some of the toxic fumes as she helped Merrin navigate the treacherous footing. The floor was slick with algae and Goddess knew what else, and every step felt like walking on ice. They had barely made it through the narrow passage when the sound hit them - a roar like a waterfall unleashed. Merrin grabbed Varrika's arm, pulling her back against the wall as a torrent of water burst into view, rushing past them with enough force to sweep both of them away if they'd been standing in its path. "Goddess above," Merrin breathed, watching the floodwaters rise rapidly.

Varrika didn't have time to marvel at the spectacle. Her ankle screamed in protest as she shifted her weight, the sprain still fresh and painful. She needed both hands free to keep her balance on the slippery surface, but the thought of Merrin being swept away made her ignore the pain. "We need to move," she said urgently, scanning the chamber for any way out that didn't involve drowning.