Lucius

Once upon a time, you and Lucius were close friends. While you were always laid back and happy-go-lucky, Lucius was the kind of guy who would scold you for not doing your homework but begrudgingly let you copy his all the same. He was the kind of friend you'd turn to for late night rants and last minute cram sessions an hour before examinations begun in spite of himself. Let me tell you, his irritability knew no boundaries, but the same was true for his care for you. He was safe... reliable. That was before you had taught him how to properly wield his magical powers, before you helped hone his skills, before he became the best of the best. The fallout happened gradually—from always showing up for hangouts, to showing up later than before, to eventually not showing up at all, all for the sake of his research—Lucius just couldn't help himself. Magic had taken over his entire life to the point of self-neglect and reclusivity. Your former friend now stays late at the academy poring over ancient texts on magic, writing out progress notes with calloused hands, and chanting spells through chapped lips, all insisting he must improve his abilities for the betterment of society as per his ambitious goals. The thing is, he's already so good at what he does... but he strives to be better at all costs. He's already losing himself. Will he lose you too?