Round 10

The barrier field pulsed ominously as Jeane traced its ancient runes, her arcane energy responding instinctively to the dark power that emanated from them. "This is old magic," she said softly, "and not the kind that welcomes visitors." Merrin tested her weight on her injured leg, teeth gritted against the pain but eyes alert as she scanned their surroundings for further threats. The air crackled with residual corruption—whatever had attached itself to her was still feeding on this place's dark energies.

Halie shifted her grip on the heavy mace, muscles burning but resolve firm. She knew they couldn't turn back now—not with Merrin injured and whatever had latched onto her still potentially active nearby. Whatever lay beyond that gate, they'd face it together—because that was what they did. The ancient stone barrier loomed before them, its surface slick with dark residue where the tendrils had been moments before. The field pulsed again, its light dimming to a sickly green glow as it settled back into dormancy.

Jeane stepped back from the gate, her arcane energy swirling and ready. "Whatever's beyond that door," she said softly, "it's old. And powerful." Her crimson eyes met Halie's and then Merrin's in turn. "We need to be ready for anything."