Round 6

Amidst the oppressive silence of the Whispering Woods, the party's collective unease hung like a palpable fog, heavy with the scent of damp earth and decay. The ancient stone tower loomed before them, its entrance sealed by a rune-covered gate that pulsed with an otherworldly energy. Merrin, ever vigilant, stood watch at the periphery, her dark eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of movement.

Seraphine's slender fingers danced across the glowing runes, her brow furrowed in concentration as she sought to decipher their secrets. Halie's soft light cast eerie shadows on the cracked stone, illuminating the dark recesses of the forest, while Varrika stood at the ready, her crossbow trained on the surrounding trees.

Jeane's Time-Slowing Spell had extended their reprieve by 10 minutes, but the party knew it wouldn't last forever. Halie's voice cut through the stillness, her tone laced with concern as she spoke of the ward's short duration and the need for better planning. Merrin's response was immediate, her words a reassuring promise to keep watch while the others attempted to pick the lock.