The Lost Mage's Journey

Chapter 13: The Birth of the Dark Witch

Scene 1: A Happy Moment at Home

It's evening at the modest cottage of the Thorne family, and the air is filled with laughter and warmth. Lyka, Sera, and Baren sit around the dinner table, their faces glowing with happiness as they share stories and celebrate Lyka's continued success at the Academy.

The small cottage feels alive with love, and Lyka can't help but smile brightly as her parents praise her for her hard work.

Sera (smiling, pride in her voice):
"Our little mage... you've done so well. I can't tell you how proud we are of you, Lyka."

Baren (laughing):
"Top of the class, and still finding time to come home and have dinner with your old folks! We're lucky to have you."

Lyka blushes slightly, her heart swelling with joy. Being with her parents like this feels perfect—like the world outside the cottage doesn't matter anymore. The pressures of the Academy, the whispers of the nobles, they all fade away in this moment.

Lyka (smiling brightly):
"I'm lucky to have you both. I couldn't have done any of this without you."

They continue laughing and sharing stories, the warmth of the fire crackling in the hearth making the room feel cozy and safe. But outside, in the cold shadows beyond the cottage, a noble spy watches silently from the trees. He takes careful note of Lyka's smile, her parents' pride, and slips away into the darkness, carrying his report to the nobles plotting against her.

Scene 2: The Nobles' Plot

The scene shifts to a grand, dark hall deep within the capital of Eldoria, where the high-ranking nobles of the kingdom gather. The air is thick with tension and malicious intent as they discuss their latest plan. A spy kneels before them, giving his report.

Spy (coldly):
"Lyka Thorne's parents seem content. They continue to support their daughter in the Academy, showing no fear of the consequences."

A nobleman, sitting at the head of the table, sneers as he listens to the report. His eyes gleam with cruel satisfaction as he addresses the others.

High-Ranking Noble (smirking):
"Then it's time we put an end to this farce. A commoner, excelling above our own? It's an insult to everything this kingdom stands for."

Noblewoman (viciously):
"And the people are beginning to take notice. We cannot let her rise any further. We must cut her down—destroy her where it hurts the most."

Another noble leans forward, his voice dripping with malice.

Nobleman 2 (coldly):
"Her parents... we punish them for her audacity. Charge them with treason, for supporting the enemy. Let her watch as they are executed before her eyes."

The room murmurs in agreement, their faces twisted with cruelty. They know that this act will break Lyka completely, and the thought fills them with dark satisfaction.

High-Ranking Noble (firmly):
"But we'll need the King's approval for this. He must be convinced that the Thorne family is a threat to the kingdom."

The nobles nod in agreement, already planning how to secure the king's approval. They know the King will act without mercy if he believes there is even a hint of treason.

Scene 3: Lyka's Birthday – The Celebration That Never Came

The next day, Lyka wakes up with a light heart. Today is her birthday, and her friends—Elara, Auron, and Darius—were supposed to visit to celebrate with her. She spends the morning preparing, excited to see them.