Round 604

Varrika’s iron grip was the only thing keeping Merrin above water. The dwarf woman had planted her feet wide, muscles straining as she fought against the sudden torrent that threatened to sweep them both away. The water roared past them, dark and churning, but Varrika held firm. She wasn’t about to let this trap claim another life—not on her watch.

When the last of the flood had passed, Merrin was gasping for air, clinging to Varrika like a lifeline. The dwarf woman’s breathing was rough, but her grip remained steady. "You alright?" she asked, voice gruff with concern. Merrin nodded, still trying to catch her breath. "I think so," she managed, her voice shaky. "But we need to find higher ground fast. That water’s going to come back."

Varrika grunted in agreement, shifting her weight carefully onto her good foot. Her ankle screamed in protest, but she gritted her teeth against the pain. They couldn’t stay here—the water would return, and next time they might not be so lucky. "Come on," she said, already scanning for an escape route. "Let’s move."