The Magic that was Lost and Forbidden

II. The Awakening

One warm afternoon, while fetching water from the river, Sanjua was lost in thought. His sixteenth birthday was fast approaching, and with it, the decision of what profession he would pursue. It was a choice that weighed heavily on his mind, as the villagers of Hearthvale watched with interest. In Eldoria, turning sixteen was a significant milestone. It was the age when children were expected to choose a profession and begin their formal training.

Returning home, he found his parents in the garden. Marcus was tending to the plants, while Helena was preparing herbs for drying.

"Sanjua, you're back," Marcus said, looking up from his work. "You seemed deep in thought while you were at the river."

Sanjua set the water jug down and sighed. "I was just thinking about my birthday and choosing a profession. I still don't know what I want to do."

Helena smiled gently. "It's a big decision, Sanjua. Have you thought about what you enjoy doing the most?"

Sanjua nodded slowly. "I enjoy helping you in the garden, Father, and learning about healing from you, Mother. But there's also a part of me that wants to see more of the world, to have adventures and help people in different ways."

Marcus exchanged a look with Helena. "Those are all important things to consider. Whatever you choose, it should be something that makes you happy and fulfilled."

Helena added, "It's also important to think about what you're good at and where your strengths lie. You have a good heart, Sanjua, and a strong sense of justice. Those qualities can guide you."

Sanjua smiled at his parents, feeling a little more at ease. "Thanks, Mother. Thanks, Father. I'll keep thinking about it."

Helena dusted off her hands and turned to Sanjua. "I'm heading to the town center to browse the bazaar. Would you like to come with me?"

Sanjua nodded. "Sure, Mother. I'd like that."

The town center was bustling with activity as they arrived. Stalls lined the streets, filled with colorful fabrics, fresh produce, and a variety of goods. Helena busied herself with browsing the stalls, chatting with the vendors, and inspecting their wares.

Sanjua wandered nearby, taking in the sights and sounds of the bazaar. As he walked, he noticed a group of boys from the village approaching. They were known for their mischief and often found ways to get under his skin. Today was no different.

"Hey, Sanjua," one of the boys called out, a smirk on his face. "Out shopping with your mommy? How cute."

Sanjua ignored them and continued walking, trying to keep his composure.

Another boy chimed in, "Heard you spend a lot of time with Lyra. What's the matter? Can't find any real friends?"

Sanjua's jaw tightened, but he forced himself to stay calm. They're just trying to provoke you, he reminded himself. Stay calm.

"Yeah, she's always hanging around you," another boy added, snickering. "Maybe she feels sorry for you, being so weak and all."

A surge of anger rose in Sanjua's chest. He clenched his fists, feeling the conflict within him. Part of him wanted to lash out, to defend Lyra and himself. But he knew that reacting would only give them what they wanted.

He took a deep breath, trying to focus on his mother's advice about staying calm and using his energy wisely. "You don't know anything about Lyra," he said evenly, meeting their eyes with a steady gaze. "She's a better friend than you lot will ever be."

The boys looked momentarily taken aback by Sanjua's calm response, but quickly recovered, their taunts continuing.

Helena noticed the commotion and approached, her expression stern. "Is there a problem here?"