The Lost Mage's Journey

Chapter 12: A Price for Success

Scene 1: Lyka's Triumph

The early morning sun streams through the windows of the Academy's classroom as Lyka sits at her desk, her heart racing with anticipation. The results of the written and practical exams are being announced, and the tension in the room is palpable. The nobles whisper amongst themselves, casting occasional glances at Lyka—still unable to believe that she, a commoner, had done so well.

Finally, the professor, an older man with sharp features and silver-rimmed glasses, steps to the front of the room, holding a stack of exam results in his hands. His voice carries through the silent room.

Professor Aldric (sternly):
"The results for this term's exams are in. First place in both the written and practical exams... goes to Lyka."

The room falls silent for a moment, before whispers break out among the students. The nobles are visibly displeased, their eyes narrowing in disbelief and anger. Lyka, however, feels a surge of pride welling up inside her. She had worked so hard for this. Despite her limited mana, she had studied relentlessly, and now it was paying off.

But before she can fully enjoy the moment, she hears the faint whispers from her classmates—filled with resentment and disdain.

Noble Boy 1 (whispering, bitterly):
"Top of the class? A commoner? There's no way..."

Noble Girl 1 (muttering):
"She doesn't belong here. How is she doing this with no real power?"

Lyka clenches her fists, but she doesn't let the whispers get to her. She stands tall, holding her head high as she walks to the front of the class to receive her exam results from Professor Aldric. She can feel the weight of the nobles' stares, but she refuses to let it diminish her sense of achievement.

Professor Aldric (quietly, with a nod):
"Well done, Lyka. You've earned this."

Lyka offers a small, grateful smile as she takes the paper with her results. As she walks back to her seat, her heart swells with pride—not just for herself, but for her family. She couldn't wait to tell them.

Scene 2: Celebration at Home

The sun has already begun to set by the time Lyka reaches home, her heart light with excitement. Her house, a small but cozy cottage on the outskirts of the city, is filled with warmth and love, and today, it will be filled with celebration.

Lyka bursts through the door, her face beaming with excitement as she calls out to her parents.

Lyka (excitedly):
"Mom! Dad! Guess what—I did it! I'm top of the class!"

Her parents, Sera and Baren, look up from the kitchen, their faces lighting up with pride. Sera drops what she's doing and rushes toward her daughter, pulling her into a tight hug, while Baren stands by with a broad smile on his face.

Sera (tearfully, overwhelmed):
"Oh, Lyka, I knew you could do it! We're so proud of you!"

Baren (proudly):
"Our little mage, top of the Academy. You've made us prouder than you'll ever know."

Lyka grins, feeling the warmth of her parents' pride filling her heart. Behind her, Elara, Auron, and Darius step into the house, all wearing bright smiles. They had followed her home to share in the celebration.

Auron (teasing):
"Top of the class, huh? I knew you were a genius, but now it's official."

Darius nods in agreement, his usual serious demeanor giving way to a rare smile.