The Lost Mage's Journey

Chapter 33: A Glimpse of the Past

Scene 1: Lyka Prepares to Go Shopping

The morning sun shone softly through the academy dormitory windows, casting a warm light across the room. It was a rare free day for the students at the Royal Magic Academy, and Lyka was eager to make the most of it. She and Mira had been cooking their own meals, and today, they needed to restock their supplies.

Lyka, dressed casually but warmly, approached Mira, who was tidying up their room. Her smile was bright, though her eyes were filled with excitement.

Lyka (cheerfully):
"Big sis Mira, I'm going to head out and buy our food for the week. The market's open, and I thought I'd take a stroll."

Mira, ever the protective figure, looked up from her task, concern immediately crossing her face.

Mira (frowning slightly, with a firm tone):
"Are you sure? The market can be crowded, and you know how things can be. Just... be careful, alright?"

Lyka rolled her eyes, grinning playfully at Mira's overprotectiveness.

Lyka (teasing, smiling):
"Big sis, I'll be fine! I'm the Crown Princess of Lusitania, remember? Besides, it's just shopping."

Mira wasn't convinced. She stepped closer, her hands resting gently on Lyka's shoulders, her face serious.

Mira (softly, but firmly):
"I mean it, Lyka. If there's any sign of trouble, run. You've got enough to deal with already, and I don't want you putting yourself in danger. Promise me."

Lyka could see the genuine worry in Mira's eyes, and her playful demeanor softened. She nodded reassuringly.

Lyka (gently):
"Okay, okay. I promise, big sis. I'll be careful."

Mira smiled, though the worry didn't entirely leave her eyes.

Mira (nodding):
"Good. Be back before sundown, okay?"

Lyka waved cheerfully as she left, the door closing behind her. Mira stood for a moment, staring at the door, a strange sense of unease settling in her chest.

Scene 2: The Market Encounter

The market was bustling with activity. Vendors shouted out their wares, and the streets were filled with the vibrant chatter of people haggling and laughing. Lyka maneuvered through the crowd easily, her basket filling up with vegetables, fruits, and other supplies for the week.

Despite the noise and movement around her, Lyka's mind wandered back to the academy, thinking about the exams and how relaxed the day felt. But as she reached for some bread, something—or rather, someone—caught her eye.

A figure, cloaked in a ragged, dirty coat, moved quickly through the crowd. His hair was long, unkempt, and his face was partially obscured by shadows. But there was something familiar—something about the way he moved, about his presence.

Lyka's heart skipped a beat.

Lyka (whispering to herself, shocked):
"Is that... Alex?"

She blinked, frozen for a moment as she tried to process what she was seeing. Her basket dropped to her side as she took a step forward, her eyes locked on the figure. There was no doubt in her mind—it was him. But he looked so different... worn down, like the weight of the world had broken him.

Without thinking, Lyka abandoned her basket and pushed through the crowd, trying to catch up to him.

Lyka (calling out, desperate):
"Alex! Wait! Alex, it's me!"