Round 735

Merrin’s eyes widen as she takes in the strange chamber, her rogue instincts screaming warnings even as the mysterious energy tugs at her senses. "By the Goddess’ light," she breathes, her fingers tightening around her mace. The pulsing portal draws her gaze despite herself, its otherworldly glow casting flickering shadows that seem to writhe and twist across the stone walls. She shakes her head sharply, trying to clear it of the odd compulsion. "This feels wrong. Dangerously wrong." Varikka stands beside her, the ancient sword held tightly in her good hand despite her obvious pain. The dwarf woman’s face is etched with fear and determination as she stares at the portal. "I don’t like this either," she growls. "But we can’t just stand here waiting for The Guardian to catch up." Merrin nods grimly, her eyes scanning the chamber for any other exits or potential threats. "Agreed. But first, let’s get you out of that pool and onto solid ground. Your ankle won’t hold much longer like that." She moves closer to the edge of the magical water, extending a hand to help Varikka climb out.