Merea's heart brimmed with concern. Though her instincts urged her to protest, she held her tongue. From the Prince's steely countenance, she could tell the decision had already been set as the stone pillars that adorned the palace halls.
"Before the trial commences," she beseeched, her hand raised in a plea, "may I equip Diana with items to aid her on this perilous journey?"
They fell silent. The princess and the other overseers exchanged wary glances. Kaelen, offered a subtle nod of approval, while the princess averted her gaze. It was Caleum, the enigmatic mage, who broke the silence.
"Indeed, these are not ordinary times," he hummed. With a wave of his hand, a shimmering pouch materialized before Diana, an offering from the realm of magic itself. "We shall grant your request," Cale
