Setting: Lyka's slow recovery has brought new hope to the palace, though her frail body is a constant reminder of the hardships she has endured. Weeks pass as Lyka rebuilds her strength, and though she can now walk, she uses a cane for support, her once lively figure still thin and fragile from her months-long coma.
Scene: Throne Room
One morning, Lyka is summoned to the throne room by her parents. She steadies herself on her cane and makes her way through the grand halls. When she arrives, she sees Mira kneeling on the floor before her parents, her head bowed in sorrow and humility. Queen Alicia and King Elric sit in their thrones, watching Lyka with calm yet solemn expressions.
Lyka: (Pausing at the threshold, surprised)
"Mother, Father... what's going on?"
King Elric gestures to Mira, his expression gentle yet firm.
King Elric:
"My sweet angel, we've been discussing Mira's actions... and we are here to decide on her punishment."
Lyka's eyes widen, and she shakes her head, stepping closer.
Lyka:
"Punishment? But... it wasn't her fault. Uncle Marcellus's dark magic controlled her—she had no say in what she did."
Queen Alicia leans forward, her gaze soft yet understanding as she watches her daughter.
Queen Alicia:
"We know that, Lyka. But a decision must still be made, and as the one most affected by this ordeal, we felt it best that you decide. You alone have the right to choose her fate."
Lyka's heart swells with empathy as she looks at Mira, who remains kneeling, her shoulders tense. Mira lifts her head, meeting Lyka's gaze, her eyes full of remorse and love.
Lyka: (Smiling gently)
"Mira... for your punishment, I want you to stay by my side. Always. You will be my maid, my sister... and my guide. I never want to go through something like that without you again."
Upon hearing these words, Mira's eyes fill with tears. She nods, a soft smile breaking through her sorrow.
Mira: (Voice trembling with emotion)
"Yes, Your Majesty... it would be my greatest honor."
Queen Alicia and King Elric exchange a glance, both deeply moved by their daughter's compassion. King Elric stands, placing a hand on Lyka's shoulder with a proud smile.
King Elric:
"You have a kind heart, Lyka. Your forgiveness and strength will make you a beloved leader one day."
Lyka feels a warmth in her chest, but a faint sadness lingers in her heart. She gives her father a small smile before helping Mira to her feet. Together, they leave the throne room, Mira walking closely beside her, just as Lyka had asked.
Scene: Late Night in the King and Queen's Bedchamber
Later that night, Lyka stands in the dimly lit corridor outside her parents' room, hesitant. She has been carrying a deep, unspoken guilt for so long that it now feels like a part of her. Finally, gathering her courage, she gently knocks.
Queen Alicia: (Opening the door, surprised but smiling)
"Lyka? Come in, darling."
Lyka steps into the room, her cane tapping softly against the floor as she moves to stand by her parents, who are seated by the fireplace. King Elric reaches out, taking her hand and guiding her to sit with them.
King Elric:
"What's on your mind, my dear? You look troubled."
Lyka takes a deep breath, struggling to find the words, her hands twisting in her lap.
Lyka: (Softly)
"I... I've been carrying this guilt for a long time. About my true parents, Papa and Mama... Baren and Sera. They... they died because of me."
Her voice breaks as tears begin to well up, and Queen Alicia places a comforting hand on her shoulder.
Queen Alicia:
"Oh, Lyka... no, darling. You mustn't blame yourself."
Lyka: (Choking up, staring into the fire)
"But it's true. I begged them to let me attend the Royal Academy in Eldoria. I wanted so badly to learn magic, to prove myself, and because of that, they... they paid the price. If I hadn't been so selfish, they'd still be alive."
King Elric squeezes her hand, his gaze full of empathy and understanding.
King Elric:
"Lyka, every parent's dream is for their child to grow and achieve their heart's desire. Baren and Sera gave you that chance because they loved you deeply and wanted you to follow your dreams. You did nothing wrong in wanting to become something more."
Lyka remains silent, her shoulders slumped as tears slide down her cheeks. She hadn't realized how heavy this guilt had been until now.
Queen Alicia:
"Lyka, your parents would be so proud of who you've become. Look at the kindness, strength, and love you carry in your heart. That is their legacy, my sweet girl. You honor them every day by the life you live."
Lyka closes her eyes, feeling the warmth of her parents' presence surrounding her, comforting her in a way she hadn't felt in years.
Lyka: (Whispering)
"Thank you, Mother. Thank you, Father. I... I'll try to let go of this guilt. It's just... sometimes it feels like they're still here with me."
Queen Alicia leans forward, brushing a tear from Lyka's cheek.
Queen Alicia:
"They are, Lyka. They live in your heart, in every loving choice you make. They will always be with you."
Scene: Lyka's Room Later That Night
Lyka returns to her room, feeling a weight lifted from her heart but still exhausted. She lies in bed, her mind a whirl of emotions. Moments later, Mira enters, her face filled with relief at seeing Lyka calm again.
Mira: (Sitting beside her on the bed, smiling softly)
"You're finally at peace, aren't you, Lyka?"
Lyka: (Smiling weakly)
"I think so. Talking to Mother and Father helped. And... knowing that you're here, Mira. It's like having my family back."
Mira reaches over, pulling Lyka into a warm embrace, resting her cheek against Lyka's hair.
Mira:
"You are my little sister, Lyka, no matter what. I'd give anything to protect you. Just promise me... promise me you won't go through something like that alone again."
Lyka's eyes grow misty as she nods, feeling Mira's arms around her like a protective shield. She closes her eyes, letting herself relax for the first time in a long while.
Lyka: (Whispering)
"I promise, big sis. Thank you... for everything."
They lie down together, Mira's arm wrapped around Lyka in a comforting embrace. As Lyka drifts into sleep, she hears Mira's soft, soothing words.
Mira: (Murmuring, barely audible)
"Thank the stars you're okay, my sweet little sister."
End of Chapter 57
This expanded chapter delves into Lyka's guilt over her past and her journey towards accepting her role as a survivor, while her relationship with Mira strengthens in a tender moment. Let me know if you'd like more details in any section!
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The Lost Mage's Journey
Fantasythis is a long story of how Lyka becomes the great magician
