Illusion of Self. Part 2.

Illusion started with the most painful part.

Illusion:

— So, Alric... How is your Lucina?

The words pierced his heart like an icy spear. He clenched his teeth. Almost lost control.

Alric:

— Bastard... Lucina... Lucina... Lucina...

Tears streamed down his cheeks. His breathing became heavy, ragged. Fragments of memories floated before his eyes - that day, her face, her voice.

Illusion did not miss the chance. With predatory speed, she struck. The sword flashed in the dim light - approaching Alric's throat.

Alric remained in place. Paralyzed by the pain of the past.

Alric (mentally):

— No... I can't... The past can't be brought back... But why does it still hurt so much?.. If only I were stronger... If only I had time... Lucina... Forgive me...

The sword had already touched his skin. There was a split second left until the end.

But suddenly... something in him snapped. Or, on the contrary, connected. An inner voice whispered:

— Get up. Enough. You're alive...

Alric abruptly disappeared from the spot. The illusion didn't understand how he ended up behind her.

Alric (coldly):

— I won't think anymore. I'll act.

A second - and the sword cut through the air. The illusion lost its head.

He stood over the body... over himself. And looked with an expression not of hatred, but of a calm, terrible decision.

Illusion (whispering before disappearing):

— Here it is... Finally, you've overcome yourself. I'm glad you could...

She disappeared like a shadow, dissolving into thin air.

Alric exhaled heavily. His heart was pounding. But not from fear - from determination.

Alric (whispers):

- I lost two. And I won't let them lose anymore...

...Anastasia.

For a moment, everything around him became dull.

Before him was a memory. A field. The sun. A girl with chestnut hair and a cheerful voice. She was laughing, playing the flute. His childhood friend. His light.

Anastasia:

- Alric, promise... If I disappear... You will smile for both of us, okay?

He simply nodded then, not realizing that her words would come true.

Alric (whispers):

- I'm sorry... Lucina... Anastasia... I swear, I will take revenge.

He walked further down the corridor. There were three passages. One is blocked.

Alric:

— Someone destroyed the passage? But I didn't sense any magic or mana. This is not an ordinary student... Something is wrong here.

He looked around.

— There are two paths left: right or left...

He thought for a moment and chose the right one.

Alric:

— If there is another illusion, I won't lose my head. Now I am not the one who cries. I am the one who moves forward.

But even with these thoughts... The words sounded inside:

> "Save yourself... No... Run..."

He clenched his fists.

Alric:

— Damn... These memories again... But I will not break. I... will stand. I must.