Uncharted territory. The air shimmered with mana. Vesna pressed on, sweat beading, but the trio felt unstoppable.
Floor 11's elemental storms were danced through with Zzyzx's dispersion and Leshwai's wind-resistant vines.
Floor 13's mimic-chest horde fell to synaptic overload — the chests literally "feared" opening themselves.
Floor 15's hydra serpent regrew heads until Zzyzx healed cuts and neon-sealed wounds while Vesna cleaved.
Mid-floors brought a real moment of tension — Vesna tired, snapping at Zzyzx's recklessness. The symbiote actually sounded vulnerable for once.
"Sorry… hunger drives. But you — ground me."
"Yeah? Learning teamwork."
Floor 20's crystal dragon reflected attacks until Leshwai's imps distracted and Zzyzx's fluid refracted the pulses right back. Victory. Mana crystal loot bonded to Vesna, powers amping.
"Stronger… thanks to you both."
"Partnership evolves."
Leshwai nuzzled, jealousy melting. "Chirr… family?"