The morning of the expedition is dreadful as it is surreal.
Zayn is the first to awaken, sitting at the edge of her bed as she takes a moment to reel herself into her reality. She thinks about the uncertain journey from here to the Gods realm, about her friends that ride with her from dusk to dawn, their loyalty and promise echoing within their heart as they follow Zayn from here to the depths of hell.
Zayn thinks about the other knights. She thinks about home and her mother and siblings. Zayn thinks about her strength, about Excalibur that is always in her thoughts and seems so close, even without a humanoid form. Zayn thinks, and thinks, and she feels herself sinking.
"Hey kid." It's Excalibur who speaks her in head. "We haven't even left yet. Think more positively, will you? Why is you, a hero, so downtrodden?"
"I'm just worried for everyone." Zayn said. "D-do you think we'll be alright? Honestly, Exci?"
