Round 629

The stone corridor groaned ominously, dust falling like rain as the ancient structure convulsed. Merrin helped Varrika hop on one foot toward the narrow opening in the wall, the dwarf woman's face twisted with pain and determination. "Go," Varrika hissed through clenched teeth. "I'll follow."

Merrin squeezed through the gap just as a section of ceiling collapsed behind them with a thunderous roar. He scrambled into the new tunnel, turning to offer a hand back to Varrika. The dwarf woman moved forward on her hands and knees, her injured ankle held clear of the ground. She managed to get halfway through before the opening began to close.

"Merrin!" Varrika cried out as stone grated against stone. The halfling threw himself flat, reaching desperately into the narrowing gap. His fingers closed around Varrika's wrist just as she was about to be crushed. He pulled with all his strength, muscles straining, while Varrika tried to push herself forward.

The gap shrieked in protest, dust and rubble cascading down. For a horrifying moment it seemed they wouldn't make it. Then Varrika tumbled free into the new tunnel, Merrin collapsing beside her. They lay there panting, covered in dust and debris, as the sound of falling stone continued behind them.

"Thanks," Varrika gasped, wiping sweat from her forehead. "That was... close." She tried to stand but cried out in pain, collapsing back to the ground. "Damn this ankle," she muttered, tears of frustration springing to her eyes.