"Lucille!" someone shouts from behind me.

I lie on the ground, my bloodstained arm stretching out in front of me. Horrified eyes glaring at me, as if they are staring at a wild beast.

Some gasp in fear, others whisper, their panicked murmurs drowned out by the piercing buzzing in my ears.

Coldness creeps up my arm, spreading through my numb body, my eyelids grow heavy.

The buzzing softens. Shapes blur into shadows, voices melt into an unsteady hum.

A faint scent of tobacco curls around me, pulling me away, like drifting on a cloud.

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As if the smoke carries me through endless hallways, warm and heavy, weaving through a dream I barely remember.

Memories resurface, faint and fractured, of a man's trembling voice.

"You never show me any affection!" he blurts, leaning across the table, his words trembling as much as his hands. "I can't stand it anymore."

His words hit me like a slap, leaving me frozen. Did I really? I stare at him, searching his face for an answer.

"Ah, well... ," I finally managed to say, the accusation sinking in, "What should I do then?"

He groans, running a hand through his hair.

"This is exactly what I mean!" he snaps, loud enough to draw glances from nearby tables.

"Even now, you just... analyse, like I am some spreadsheet you can fix by adjusting a few numbers! You don't feel! You don't care!"

"Please, calm down." I said softly, glancing around. Anxiety creeps up my chest, sharp and suffocating, as if I had missed a deadline.

But he wasn't listening, "No, I've had enough!" His chair screeches against the floor, standing up abruptly, his face flushing with anger. "We're done, Sayu!"

For a moment, I stare at him, feeling my chest tightening as his words sink in.

"You're joking, right?" I whisper, quieter than I intended. Deep down, I know he's not.

He lets out a bitter laugh, shaking his head." Of course you'd think that. You're so full of yourself."

Grabbing his coat, he storms toward the exit without another word.

The clinking of plates and murmurs returned after a few moments. Filling the silence he left behind, as though nothing had happened.

"I even took vacation, just for you." I whisper to myself, staring at the half eaten meal and the empty chair across the table.

My chest aches, but my eyes stay dry, no matter how badly I want them to fill.

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A light summer rain clouds the sky as I step outside. It's droplets trace down my face like the tears I couldn't shed before.

Aimlessly wandering through the streets, the steady rhythm of rain echoing in my chest.

Before I know it, I find myself standing in front of small game shop, tucked in between a café and a clothing store. It's neon sign flickers faintly, a beacon of nostalgia.

Inside, the faint smell of plastic lingers as my gaze wanders over the latest releases.

Brittle foil crackling under my fingertips as I reach for a game that caught my eye.

"She's so pretty." I murmur, my heart skipping a beat.

My gaze firmly locked onto a girl on the cover, her soft amber eyes and pastel pink hair captivating.

Someone who could only exist in a fairytale.

I flip the box, reading it's description aloud.

"The royal academy of Etera, normally a place accessible only to nobility, opens it's doors for the first time to highly promising commoners. Among them, Amelia, the first holy mage in a decades.

Friendship, love, betrayal and crime, will you be able to forge a path through this unforgiving environment?"

What first seemed like a generic game quickly became my obsession. I pulled one all nighter after another, exploring every path, collecting every achievement.

But most importantly, I spent every moment I could with my beloved Lucille.

Many sleepless nights and tears of joy and grief later, I finally did it. In the last night of my vacation, I held her in my arms, watching the epilogue of our happy end.

For a fleeting moment, everything felt perfect, as if nothing else in the world mattered.

But morning comes too soon. I turn off my console and get ready for work. When I glance at my reflection in the mirror for one last time, I freeze.

The face staring back isn't mine. A little girl gazes at me with her curious amber eyes.

Spinning away from the mirror, I stumble reaching for a door handle that isn't there. My tiny, trembling hands grasp empty air.

Panic washes over me as realisation hits. I have been transported. Into the world of Calamity no less. And to make matters worse, I am Lucille.

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"Perfect." I whisper, mustering my reflection one last time. The academy uniform fit me like a glove.

The only flaw, if I could call it that, is the skirt, too short for my liking. But that's nothing a pair of tights couldn't fix.

My gaze shifts to the neatly packed bag by my bedside. Today isn't just another day.

It's the day I've been preparing for since that fateful morning ten years ago. My academy life begins now!

Bright red maple trees adorn the avenue, their leaves fluttering gently in the breeze, casting dappled shadows over the lush green meadow.

Most students would take the tram to campus, but I choose to walk, savouring the serene beauty of the park.

Humming softly, soaking in the scenery I'd only ever seen through the screen, until now.

"Hey," a voice calls out from behind me.

A girl with short blonde hair runs towards me, her dark blue uniform rippling with every hurried step.

Intricate yellow embroidery glints under the sunlight, and I already knew who she is. Amelia.

This is exactly how she first meets Lucille in the game.

"Is this yours?" She nervously presents a pastel blue handkerchief, "you're the only one around, so... I thought it might belong to you."

"May I take a closer look?" I step closer, noticing how her gaze stays fixed on the ground.

"Of course!" She thrusts her hand forward, quick and a little flustered.

My fingers brush over the soft fabric, the golden thread skilfully woven into the roaring lion of my family’s crest. In the corner, the initials L.L. gleam faintly.

"Yes, this is mine." I mask my surprise with a polite smile. Knowing about this event beforehand, I had left it in my room. But I can’t tell her that. "Where exactly did you pick it up?"

"Uh, on the ground, right outside the dormitory." She fidgets with her hands, an earnestness in her tone that doesn't match the spotless handkerchief.

I tilt my head slightly, my fingers brushing over the smooth, unblemished fabric. "I see. Thank you for returning it."

My polite smile stays firmly in place, even as doubt stirs beneath the surface

She nods almost too eagerly. "It wasn't any trouble," her hands clasp together, a futile attempt to calm her restless fingers.

Her nervousness resembles her early game persona strikingly. Conveying the innocence of a countryside girl almost too convincingly. Making it difficult not to like her.

This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

"By the way," I say, folding the handkerchief neatly and tucking it into my bag, "my name is Lucille. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Her gaze finally lifts, and for the first time, our eyes meet. A flicker of surprise crosses her striking blue eyes before a shy smile softens her expression.

"Amelia," she says, her tone warm but tentative. "It's nice to meet you, too!"

----------------------------------------

We fall into step together, our boots tapping softly against the cobblestone path.

Even though the silence between us feels comfortable to me. Amelias glances didn't go unnoticed.

Her curiosity barely hidden behind her timid demeanour.

"So," I start, offering her a small smile, "are you excited for the first day?"

Her face lights up, a mixture of excitement and nerves. "I am! Though I can't help but feel out of place. The academy is... well, it's so grand. Nothing like where I'm from."

Recalling her backstory from the game, it’s easy to picture the quiet farming village where Amelia’s life had been simple and modest, until now.

"It can be overwhelming at first," I say gently, "But you'll get used to it. Trust me, I speak from experience."

Her lips part as if she wants to say something more, but before she can, a familiar voice calls out ahead of us.

"Lucille! Is that you?"

Edward's casually perched on the edge of the fountain in the central plaza.

His golden hair gleams under the sunlight, his grin unmistakably self assured. Just as I remember.

"Edward," My voice tinged with mock exasperation, "always so dramatic."

He laughs, standing and brushing through his hair. "Well, we haven't seen each other in two years. Surely I am allowed a little drama."

Amelia's gaze dart back and forth between us, her expression puzzled. "You two... know each other?"

I allow myself a faint smile, taking in Edward's familiar grin, "Yes, he is my younger brother."

Her face flushes deep red. "Oh! I-I didn't realise," she stutters, her index fingers nervously tapping together, her gaze firmly set on the ground once again.

"I mean, you don't look alike at all... . I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to be rude!"

Edward chuckles, clearly enjoying her embarrassment. "No offence taken," he says, flashing his trademark grin.

"It's true, we don't look very much alike. But I assure you, I'm the better looking twin."

"He's right, you know?" I ponder playfully. "Put him in a dress and he'd make any woman jealous."

His face flushes red as I hit one of his few weak points. "I don't know what you're talking about."

I glance at him, hiding a smirk behind my hand. His pleading expression won't save him now.

"Oh, I am sorry. I must've imagined this cute little boy calling asking for his sister while proudly wearing one of her dresses."

"That's already five years ago!" He interjects, "besides, please not here." He practically begs, his voice rising slightly.

Amelia grins, her tension easing, "You two really are twins," she murmurs a hint of awe.

I suppress a laugh, glancing at Edward, his golden hair and sharp emerald green eyes not only elevate his cute flush, but also contrast sharply to my own features.

"Don't worry, we get that a lot." I say smoothly, "But rest assured, the family resemblance is there. Somewhere."

Edward crosses his arms in feigning offence. "How could you possibly deny the obvious charm we share?"

Amelia chuckles softly, her initial nervousness beginning to fade. "I guess I can see it now," she admits with a shy smile.

Edward's grin widens, clearly enjoying the attention. "See? Even Amelia agrees. You should listen to me more often."

"I suppose I could." Unable to suppress the small smile tugging at my lips.

"But enough of the theatrics, Edward. We're going to be late."

"Late?" he says with mock indignation, glancing theatrically at his empty wrist. "Not on my watch! Let's go then."

Leading us the way through the now bustling crowd of students. The plaza alive and filled with activity.

Groups of students gathered around the grand fountain at the center, or underneath the trees canopys, enjoying the shade.

Nobles greeting each other, refreshing old bonds or tying new ones while the few commoners I could spot, linger nervously at the edges.

As we approach the towering main building, Amelia slows, her steps faltering.

Her earlier excitement replaced by uncertainty, her gaze fixed on the intricate carvings on the academy's massive double doors.

"Amelia?" I prompt gently, falling into step beside her, "are you alright?"

She hesitates, her fingers fidgeting with her uniform jacket.

"It's just... . It feels so surreal," she murmurs. "Standing here, in a place like this. I never thought someone like me would belong here."

Edward paused ahead of us, turning back with a raised eyebrow. "What are you talking about? Of course you belong here."

"He's right, you know." I nod in agreement, "I'd even argue you belong here more than most. You got an invitation in spite of being born a commoner.

Most nobles wouldn't even be here if it weren't for their herritage. So don't let anyone make you feel otherwhise."

She looks between us, her expression softening. "Thank you," she says quietly, a small but genuine smile spreads across her face. "I'll try to remember that."

"Good!" Edward flashes her an encouraging grin, before gesturing overly dramatically toward the entrance. "Now onward! Our grand adventure awaits!"

"You know, it's just three years of school?"

"Ah come one, don't be such a killjoy."

Amelia giggles again, and this time, her laugh is lighter, less burdened.

Together, we step through the massive doors into the academy's grand hall.

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The massive space is nothing short of breathtaking.

Black and white marble tiles form a sprawling checkerboard floor that reflects the sunlight streaming through massive glass windows.

Crystalline chandeliers hang high above, scattering the light like a cascade of stars.

Students fill the room, their voices blending into a gentle hum that echoes of the grand arch ceiling.

Edward, as before, takes the lead, weaving confidently through the crowd.

Amelia though decided to stick close to me, her eyes darting around as she takes in the grandeur of the hall.

"This place is incredible." she whispers to herself.

"Isn't it?" I smile faintly, remembering my first impression of the academy as if it would have been yesterday. It was no less overwhelming back then.

Before she can respond, the booming voice of the principal fills the hall, silencing the room instantly.

"Welcome, students, to the Royal Academy of Etera. Today marks the beginning of a journey, a journey of studying, growth, and camaraderie."

The speech continues, but my focus drifts. As I've heard these words numerous times before. I can't shake the feeling something was off.

Could it be the world itself? In my short time here I've already noticed subtle shifts, having tried to alter, or even avoid certain scenarios.

Only for them to find their way back to me anyway, not entirely the same, but close enough, as though the game's events are being rewritten.

My fingers brushed gently over the handkerchief tucked in my palm. I had left it in my room deliberately, yet it ended up in her hands anyway.

Was it a coincidence, did I leave the windows open? Or maybe the maid opened it after I left.

I shake my head, unwilling to draw early conclusions. Perhaps I could later check my room. Until then, there is nothing I can do.

A sigh escapes me as the questions swirl in my head.

My attention shifts briefly back to the students. Scouring them for familiar faces as I try to find something, anything really, to distract myself.

"Lucille," Edward nudges me gently, "You're first. They've called you twice already."

Blinking, I realise the assessments have already begun, My name echoes through the hall again, the principal's voice firm and commanding. "Lucille Lionheart."

Taking a deep breath, before I step forward. The weight of countless eyes fall on me as I approach the center of the stage.

A contraption rests on the table, a faintly shimmering crystal at it's core.

I know this part well, too well. In the game, this crystal evaluates magical aptitude.

It's color represents one's elemental affinity, and the brightness of the glow indicates their mana pool.

Every time, I dreaded this moment, watching Lucille getting mocked for her poor aptitude.

I place my hand on the crystal, it's surface cool against my palm. For a moment, nothing happens.

Then, a mossy green light begins to glow, spreading outward. It's mossy hue is calming, yet disappointingly familiar, I've seen it far too many times in every iteration of this moment.

Just a little longer, I think. Soon this will all be over, and I'll return to my place in the crowd.

But before relief could settle, the green light intensifies. Shifting and twisting, until suddenly, a fiery orange core bursts forth.

Gasps ripple through the hall, as the crystal trembles violently. It's glow blinding and waves of heat radiating from it's surface.

"Get back!" someone shouts, too late.

The crystal shatters, sharp fragments flying outward. I instinctively raise my arm to shield my face, as shards slice into my skin.

Pain shoots through me as I stumble backwards, clutching my injured arm, blood trickles down onto the floor, warm against my skin.

The crystal's remains melted into a pool, hissing and bubbling ominously.

Chaos erupts around me. Students whisper frantically, teachers rushing to contain the situation.

"What? How?" I whispered in disbelief, collapsing to the ground. A puddle of blood spreads around my arm throbbing arm, as I reached out, desperate for help.

"Lucille!" someone shouts from behind me.

The crowds once excited eyes glared at me in horror. Coldness creeps up my arm, spreading through my numb body, piercing buzzing in my ears drowns out the chaos, as my eyelids grow heavy.