We find Joren once again at Hazel's booth selling farm goods to customers. Today is the fourth day of the festival, things begin to wind down and performances are less flashy like the fire dance from yesterday. Three men in crisp blue uniforms began weaving carefully through the festival crowds. Their movements were too deliberate, too watchful, as they began questioning vendors about any odd events or sightings of a man. He'd seen men like these before, they were government hunters who followed rumors and whispers with relentless determination. He tried to focus on the customers at the stall, but his attention flickered toward the three men weaving through the crowd, their presence like a shadow creeping closer. They stopped by the greedy vendor who'd made a large fuss a few days prior, questioning the disturbance. Just as quickly as the hunters had appeared, they left into the crowd.
Afternoon – The Booth
The sun hung warm over the bustling festival, engrossing Hazel's booth with shifting patterns of light through the fabric above. Joren stood nearby, sorting through bundles of fresh herbs while Hazel arranged jars of honey and pickled vegetables with practiced ease. Suddenly, a ripple of movement caught Joren's eye. From the crowd, a tall figure he recognized immediately was making his way over. "Hey," Tsunami said, voice low but easy, as he slid beside Joren. "Still playing farmer's helper, huh?" Joren grinned, feeling the familiar ease of their friendship settling in. Joren suddenly remembered the men from this morning. "Those hunters were asking around about you this morning." Joren said. "Then that means I need to take my leave from your village." Tsunami replied.
Hazel was eavesdropping between her interaction with a customer, slowly putting the pieces together. "You ready for whatever's coming?" he asked quietly. Joren's smile faltered for just a moment. "I'm getting there." Tsunami nodded, clapping a hand on Joren's shoulder, "Good luck with whatever you decide. If you do end up leaving, let's share a meal sometime later on down the road." he said before slipping back into the crowd, the sound of the festival swallowing him whole once more. Just as he was leaving, a shout was heard. It was those hunters looking for Tsunami, running down the road and pushing people out of the way. One man had an artifact in hand, a short sword that looked to have a power capable of doing some harm to Tsunami if he wasn't careful. They took off and soon fell out of sight just the same as he did, a chase ensuing. However, this is Joren's story, and he has some secrets to spill and decisions to make.
Early Evening – Hazel's House
Inside, the familiar scent of dried herbs and fresh baked goods wrapped around Joren like a comforting cloak. Hazel moved with calm purpose, lighting a small fire in the hearth while Joren settled at the sturdy wooden table for dinner, the day's weight pressing on his shoulders. Hazel's eyes held a quiet understanding as she watched him. Joren decided to tell Hazel about his dream that wasn't really a dream and how he got powers and met this guy and saw those hunters. Hazel just listened without interruption, providing comfort to a confused boy deciding about his future.
"That's a heavy burden for anyone, especially someone still finding their way," she said gently. "But you're not alone, Joren. You have more strength than you realize, and having powers doesn't mean you are as bad as people often believe." Joren's eyes flickered with uncertainty, the weight of choice settling over him. "I don't know what to do next," he admitted. "If I stay, the hunters might come back maybe a year later, maybe ten. If I leave, I will be unsure of my next direction." Hazel smiled softly. "There is no right answer, only the one you make. Whatever you choose, everything is sure to work out in the end, and perhaps you can befriend some new companions to help with your uncertainty if you decide to adventure out." Joren has made up his mind.
Late Evening – Elira's Shop
The cozy glow of lantern light spilled onto the wooden floorboards as Joren stepped inside Elira's shop. The scent of old books and herbs mingled in the air, wrapping him in a familiar comfort. Elira looked up from her worn leather-bound tome, her gentle smile easing some of the tension coiling in his chest.
"Joren," she greeted softly, "What brings you here at this hour? It's nearly time for the shop to close. Did you need some extra notes for your constellations?" Taking a steadying breath, Joren met her calm gaze and told her about everything just the same as he did with Hazel. Elira listened quietly, her eyes reflecting a deep understanding as Joren recounted the strange dream, the sudden surge of power, the encounter with Tsunami, and the hunters trailing close behind. When he finished, she responded.
"As confusing as it must be for you, it seems that this Tsunami fellow is on to something. This supernova portrait seems like a perfect fit." She said. "I think I know what you plan on doing now, so make sure you write back to me and Isla, she will miss seeing you around the shop every other day. Oh, and one more thing, you can keep that book I lent you since it might help you on your journey." "Thank you, Elira. I won't forget." She smiled warmly, her eyes soft but steady. "Remember, even when things feel overwhelming, you're not alone. Write to me and Isla when you can. We'll be here." With a final nod, Joren stepped out into the night, the lantern light flickering behind him as the door closed softly, sealing in the quiet promise of support.
Morning 4 days later – Hazel's House
The morning sun filtered through the curtains of Hazel's modest home, casting golden light across the wooden floor. Joren stood at the threshold of the kitchen, a small pack slung over his shoulder, filled with essentials; bread, herbs, clothes, tools and the likes. He also had his satchel filled with his stargazing materials, navigation equipment, maps, books and some more related tools. Hazel was already awake, stirring something warm on the stove. She didn't look up immediately, but her voice came gently.
"So, today's the day, huh?" she said. Joren nodded, his chest tight with both nerves and resolve. "Yeah… I think it's time." She turned to face him then, wiping her hands on a cloth. "You'll come back different, that's just how the road works, but I hope part of you stays the same boy I took in all those years ago." Hazel walked over and pulled him into a brief but strong hug. "Keep your head on straight, and trust your gut. That portrait didn't choose you by accident, so go make some positive change in this world." He managed a soft smile. "Thanks for everything, Hazel. I'll be careful." She chuckled, brushing a bit of dust off his shoulder.
With the sun rising behind him, Joren stepped outside into the morning light, his journey finally beginning. It was time to see the world beyond this little village. Joren had already planned his first stop, a town called Glazebend. It is known for its pottery and porcelain scene, but he was more interested in the artisan crafts that he might find instead.