The Lost Mage's Journey

Chapter 1: Dreams in the Sky

Scene 1: Lyka's Home

The story begins in a humble cottage nestled in the countryside. The wind blows softly through the trees, carrying with it the faint scent of fresh bread and the rustle of the leaves. Inside, we meet a young girl—small for her age, with bright, curious eyes and wild, untamed hair. This is Lyka.

Narration:

Lyka's world had always been a small one, tucked away in the arms of the forest, far from the grand cities of nobility. Her home was simple, made of wood and stone, with a roof that leaked during storms. Yet, it was filled with warmth—her father's hearty laughter, her mother's quiet humming as she kneaded dough, and the crackle of the fire on cold nights.

But there was something missing. Lyka had always known it, felt it. A spark that refused to ignite.

Lyka is sitting on a large, well-worn wooden chair by the fire, clutching a thick book. The book is old, the pages yellowing, filled with symbols of magic far beyond her years. She stares at the pages, her brow furrowed in concentration. A flicker of light hovers above her hand—a failed attempt at casting even the simplest spell.

Lyka (to herself):
"Come on, just a little spark... please..."

The light fizzles out. Frustration fills her eyes as she slams the book shut. Her father, a broad-shouldered man with a thick beard, enters the room, watching her with quiet concern.

Father (laughing gently):
"You're going to burn that book out just by staring at it, you know?"

Lyka smiles, but it's strained. Her father sits beside her, placing a strong hand on her shoulder.

Father:
"I know it's hard, Lyka. Magic doesn't come easy for everyone."

Lyka (looking up, determined):
"But I want it, Father. I want to learn magic... even if I don't have much mana. There's more to magic than just power, right? There has to be."

Father (softly):
"There is. But the world you want to enter... it's not always kind to those without power. The nobles' magic schools are tough—"

Lyka (interrupting, eyes shining):
"Then I'll work harder! I'll study every night, practice until my hands are sore! I don't care if they're nobles, I want to be a magician!"

Her father looks at her for a long moment, his expression softening. He sees the fire in her eyes, the same fire he once had when he was young.

Father (sighing, but smiling):
"Alright, alright. If anyone can do it, it's you, Lyka. But you'll have to convince your mother."

Scene 2: The Family Dinner

Later that evening, the family sits down for dinner. The fire crackles as Lyka's mother, a kind woman with worry lines etched across her face, serves simple stew and bread. The atmosphere is light, but there's tension in the air. Lyka hasn't brought up the magic school yet.

Mother (cheerfully):
"Lyka, you've been quiet today. What's on your mind?"

Lyka hesitates for a moment, her heart pounding in her chest. She knows this is her chance.

Lyka (nervously):
"I... I want to go to the Academy of Aetherium."

The room falls silent. Her mother's hand pauses mid-air, holding a piece of bread.

Mother (carefully):
"The Academy? Lyka... that's a school for nobles. It's not a place for... us."

Lyka (pleading):
"But I passed the entrance exam! I can get in! I've studied so much—please, I want to learn magic, and that's the best school! I know I don't have much mana, but..."

Her mother's eyes soften, but there's sadness in them. She reaches across the table, taking Lyka's hand in hers.

Mother (softly):
"It's not about what you want, Lyka. It's about what's possible. They'll... treat you differently. You're not like them."

Lyka's heart sinks, but her determination burns brighter.

Lyka (with tears in her eyes):
"I don't care! I'll show them that there's more to magic than being born noble! Please, Mother... I need to try."

Her mother looks at her husband, who gives a slow nod. There's a long pause, filled with unspoken worries. Finally, her mother sighs, but there's a smile on her lips.

Mother:
"If this is your dream, Lyka... then we'll support you. But remember, the path you're choosing is not easy."

Lyka nods, her heart racing with excitement and fear.

Narration:
In that moment, Lyka felt something she hadn't felt in a long time—hope. Her path was set. She would go to the Academy, no matter what it took.

Scene 3: Lyka's First Day at the Academy

Fast forward to Lyka's first day at the Academy. She stands before the grand gates, towering above her, shimmering with magical energy. Students—dressed in pristine, expensive uniforms—walk past her, chatting and laughing. Lyka feels the weight of their stares.

Narration:
The Academy was nothing like she had imagined. It was bigger, grander, and colder. The nobles' children walked past her as if she didn't exist—just a commoner, with barely enough mana to light a candle. But Lyka held her head high. She belonged here, no matter what they thought.

Suddenly, a group of students approaches her. One of them, a tall boy with a haughty expression, steps forward.

Noble Boy:
"Well, well, what do we have here? A commoner in our Academy?"

The group laughs, and Lyka's face flushes with anger and embarrassment. Before she can respond, another voice cuts through the crowd—a calm, confident voice.

???:
"Leave her alone."

The noble boy turns, and so does Lyka. Standing there is a noble student, but unlike the others, he doesn't wear a sneer. His eyes are kind, and there's a quiet strength about him. He steps forward, standing beside Lyka.

???:
"Everyone has the right to be here, noble or not."

The group grumbles but walks away, leaving Lyka and her unexpected ally. Lyka looks up at him, her heart still racing.

Lyka (shocked):
"Thank you... I don't even know your name."

Noble Friend (smiling):
"Call me Auron. And you?"

Lyka:
"Lyka."

They share a smile, and for the first time since arriving at the Academy, Lyka feels like she might just belong here after all.

End of Chapter 1