Shadow of the Ancients / Run 008 / Main Story
Round 830 Transcript
Episode 1 · Episode Round 1

The tension in ancient tower depths, hidden chamber below collapsed landing with rising water, narrow chasm with rickety bridge over swift-flowing channel tightens for a beat as the interruption refuses to go away. Everyone is forced to stay quiet and choose their next move carefully.
I glance nervously at the boat, my eyes darting between Varikka's injured ankle and Elric's torch. The Guardian's growls are getting louder, and I can feel the water rising around us. We don't have much time. "Varikka, can you make it into the boat?" I ask, my tone softening slightly. "Elric, be ready to help her if she needs it."
As I wait for their response, I scan the chamber once more, looking for any signs of danger. The water is still clear, but the boat is rocking gently with each passing moment. I can feel the current tugging at the hull, and I know we don't have much time before it carries us away. But even as I worry about our immediate safety, I can't shake the feeling that this is just the beginning of something much larger. The Time-Splitting Sword pulses against my back, its power a constant reminder of the stakes we're playing for. And as I look at Varikka and Elric, their faces etched with fear and determination, I know that we're in this together - for better or for worse. "Alright," I say, turning to face the water ahead of us. "Let's see where this takes us." And with that, I push off from the shore, the boat gliding silently into the darkness beyond.
My ankle's on fire but we've got no choice - I've got to push through the pain. Merrin's right, we need to get in that boat now before The Guardian catches up. I take a deep breath, steeling myself for the effort it's going to take to move. Elric, you ready to give me a hand if I need it? I ask, my voice tight with pain. Merrin, hold steady - I'm coming in.

