The Lost Mage's Journey

Chapter 48: Revelations and Shadows

Scene 1: Unburdening the Truth

It was a quiet morning in Lusitania, the palace bustling with activity as the long vacation began. Lyka had barely slept the night before, her mind spinning with the decision she had made. She had kept the truth about her uncle Marcellus hidden from her parents for too long. The weight of it had grown unbearable, and now, after everything that had happened with Mira, she couldn't stay silent anymore.

Lyka stood outside her father's study, her heart pounding in her chest. She knew she had to tell him, but the thought of admitting how she had been manipulated by Marcellus filled her with dread.

Mira stood beside her, offering silent support, sensing Lyka's anxiety. She gave her a soft nudge with her shoulder.

Mira (softly, encouraging):
"It's time, Lyka. You can't carry this alone anymore. He needs to know the truth."

Lyka nodded, her expression serious but determined. She reached for the door handle, took a deep breath, and stepped inside.

Scene 2: Facing the King

Inside the study, King Elric was seated at his desk, reviewing documents. His expression brightened the moment he saw Lyka, though it was soon replaced with concern when he noticed the serious look on her face.

King Elric (warmly, but with concern):
"Lyka, my dear. Come in. Is everything alright?"

Lyka closed the door behind her, her hands trembling slightly. She walked toward her father, Mira following close behind her. The king's presence had always been a source of comfort to her, but today, she felt as though the distance between them was vast. She couldn't hide this any longer.

Lyka (softly, her voice shaking):
"Father... there's something I need to tell you. About... about Uncle Marcellus."

At the mention of Marcellus, the king's expression darkened slightly, though he remained calm, watching Lyka closely.

King Elric (gently):
"Go on, Lyka. What happened?"

Lyka took a deep breath, her hands clenching into fists as she gathered the courage to speak.

Lyka (nervously, but determined):
"When I was at the academy... Marcellus came to visit me. He... he asked me to retrieve something for him. A dark artifact hidden within the academy's grounds. I didn't think much of it at the time, I just... I trusted him. I thought he was trying to help."

The king's brow furrowed, concern deepening in his eyes.

King Elric (cautiously):
"A dark artifact? What was it, Lyka?"

Lyka swallowed hard, her voice trembling as she continued.

Lyka (softly, filled with regret):
"It was... a dark orb. I didn't know what it was at first. But... when I brought it to him, he... he used it. And... he hurt Mira."

Mira stood beside Lyka, her hand resting on her shoulder as she nodded, her voice calm despite the weight of her words.

Mira (gently):
"It's true, Your Majesty. Marcellus shot me in the chest when I tried to stop him. He wasn't acting in Lusitania's interest... he was using Lyka."