Round 21

The air grew heavier as they descended deeper into the tower's bowels. Each step seemed to echo with the weight of centuries, and Seraphine felt the ancient stone absorbing their presence, cataloging them like intruders in a library of death.

We should have brought more light. Or less darkness.

She raised her staff higher, the glow intensifying as they reached the bottom of the stairs. The chamber opened up before them—a vast circular room lined with more of those ominous runes, pulsing in sync with the ones on her own weapon.

This is bad. Very bad.

"What do you think?" Jeane asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Seraphine swallowed hard. "I think we're not alone down here. And whatever's keeping this place alive... it knows we're here now."

The runes flared brighter in response, as if answering her words with a malevolent welcome.