**Chapter 3: Shadows in the Night**

As Lucas, Lyra wandered through the winding streets of Barcelona, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The warm sun on her skin and the bustling crowds around her made her feel almost carefree, a welcome respite from the constant sense of unease that had been plaguing her. She strolled along La Rambla, stopping to watch street performers and vendors, all the while keeping a watchful eye out for any suspicious activity. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the city, Lyra decided to grab a bite to eat at a small café. She ordered a plate of tapas and a glass of sangria, sitting down at a small table outside to enjoy her meal. The sounds of laughter and conversation filled the air, and Lyra felt a sense of anonymity wash over her. For the first time in days, she felt like she could let her guard down. As she ate, Lyra noticed a group of men sitting at a nearby table, speaking in hushed tones. Their eyes darted back and forth, and they seemed to be discussing something in a serious manner. Lyra's instincts kicked in, and she reached into her pocket, her hand closing around the wand now hidden in her jeans. The men caught her eye, and one of them, a tall, dark-haired individual with a scar above his left eyebrow, raised his glass in a silent toast. Lyra felt a shiver run down her spine as their eyes met, and she quickly looked away, trying to blend in with the crowd. She finished her meal quickly, feeling a sense of unease wash over her. As she walked away from the café, Lyra noticed that the men were following her, their footsteps echoing off the buildings. She picked up her pace, her heart racing with anticipation. Lyra dodged into a narrow alleyway, her wand at the ready. She spun around, prepared to defend herself, but the men were nowhere to be seen. Instead, a small piece of paper fluttered to the ground, carried by the breeze. Lyra picked it up, her eyes scanning the message scrawled on it in red ink: "Welcome to Barcelona, Lucas. You're not as alone as you think." Lyra's heart sank as she realized that The Umbra had found her. She crumpled the paper in her hand, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. She would not be intimidated, and she would not back down. She would complete her mission, no matter the cost. As she emerged from the alleyway, Lyra noticed a figure watching her from across the street. It was a young woman, with piercing green eyes and long, curly brown hair. She smiled, and Lyra felt a sense of curiosity wash over her. The woman approached Lyra, her eyes locked on hers. "You're looking for a way to counter The Umbra's influence, I think," she said, her voice low and mysterious. "I might be able to help you. Meet me at the old clock tower at midnight. Come alone." With that, the woman turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving Lyra to wonder if she had just found an ally, or a new enemy.