Emerald walked through her room, grabbing only what she needed for the trip. She took a change of clothes, her weapons, the crystal amulet tucked safely in a leather bag at her hip, and a few other things: dried meat, a water bottle, and a small utility knife.
She made sure not to take anything that would slow or weigh her down unnecessarily.
She paused briefly at her mirror, studying her reflection.
Dark circles shadowed her eyes due to the sleepless night. Her face looked thinner than it had been a few weeks ago, showing the stress and exhaustion she'd gone through. But her eyes still showed the strong determination that had helped her overcome every trial so far.
"We can do this," Viola said quietly in her mind, offering what comfort she could.
"We have to," Emerald replied, turning away from the mirror.
