Round 91

Seraphine’s voice trembles slightly as she speaks, her sharp eyes fixed on the portal before them. I... I think we should consider the Guardian’s offer seriously. A trial that tests courage and wits? That sounds far more manageable than whatever else this tower might throw at us. She glances sideways at Merrin, a flicker of genuine admiration in her expression. And clearly, none of us are lacking in those departments.

Jeane circles the portal slowly, her crimson eyes fixed on its shimmering surface as she processes Seraphine’s proposal and Merrin’s bold declaration. A small, almost admiring smile tugs at the corner of her lips—this little rogue has grown far more interesting than she anticipated. She finds herself genuinely impressed by their combined bravery, even if part of her wishes they’d let her cherry-pick the volunteer. "How deliciously direct," Jeane muses aloud, her voice a silken purr that echoes softly in the cavernous space.

Merrin takes a deep breath, her eyes darting between Jeane, Seraphine, and the ominous portal. The Guardian’s words hang heavy in the air, each syllable echoing with an unsettling weight. She can feel the tension coiling tighter in her gut, a mix of fear and something else... something that feels dangerously close to excitement. She steps forward, her small form seeming even more delicate as she moves to stand between Jeane and Seraphine. I don't know about you two, she says, her voice steady despite the nervous energy thrumming through her, but I’m not exactly keen on waiting here for whatever else this tower has in store.