Round 685

The noxious gas burns their throats, making it hard to breathe, but they ignore it, focusing all their energy on getting Varrika to safety. Finally, with a final heave, Varrika pulls herself up onto the ledge beside Merrin. She collapses against the stone wall, panting heavily and clutching her throbbing ankle. "Thanks," she gasps, looking up at Merrin with gratitude in her eyes. "I owe you one." Merrin smiles back, though her expression is tinged with concern as she surveys Varrika's injuries.