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Chapter 7 - Chapter 7: Peaceful Beginnings

Elijah Thorne strolled through Oaks town's bustling market, exchanging smiles with familiar faces.

The scent of freshly baked bread wafted through the air mingling with the sound of merchants hawking their wares.

Sunlight cast a gentle glow on the cobblestone streets, infusing the scene with a sense of serenity.

As he walked, Elijah's thoughts drifted to his family. His father Seth Thorne, a respected silver rank mage (one of the highest rank mages in Oaks Town) and knight serving house Jazar had always been a role model for him.

Seth's unwavering dedication to justice and protection of Oaks town inspired Elijah. His mother, Esther Thorne, a skilled healer, worked tirelessly for the Jazar family and the town. Her compassion and expertise earning her the townspeople's admiration.

Elijah approached the Jazar manor, it's elegant architecture, a testament to Count Josef Jazar's prosperity.

He spotted Cassandra Jazar, the Count's daughter, laughing with a group of children near the town square.

Elijah's heart swelled with affection; Cassandra was more than a friend - she was a confidante.

"Cassandra, what mischief are you planning?" Elijah teased, approaching the group.

Cassandra's bright blue eyes sparkled. "Just convincing these youngsters to help with the harvest festival preparations. We need someone with your artistic skills to design the floats."

Elijah chuckled, his creative side piqued. "You know I'm always in. Let's make this festival unforgettable."

Together, they spent the afternoon organizing the festival, their camaraderie effortless.

Elijah's artistic talents flourished under Cassandra's guidance, and the children's laughter filled the air.

Later, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Elijah assisted his mother with her healing duties. She tended to a wounded traveler, her hands glowing with soothing magic.

"Elijah assist me," she said, her voice calm and reassuring.

Elijah nodded, channeling his own magic to aid her. The traveler's wound began to close, and Esther smiled.

"You're growing stronger Elijah. Your father will be proud."

Elijah beamed, feeling a sense of purpose and belonging.

The evening unfolded with a warm dinner at the Jazar manor, Count Josef and his family sharing stories of Oak Town's history. Elijah listened intently, fascinated by the tales of resilience and community.

After dinner, Elijah strolled with Cassandra through the manor's gardens, the scent of blooming flowers filling the air.

"Cassandra, have you noticed anything... unusual lately?" Elijah asked his brow furrowed.

Cassandra's expression turned curious. "What do you mean?"

Elijah hesitated. "I've been having these... feelings. Like there's something off, something hidden. A sense of unease that doesn't feel like our town".

Cassandra's eyes locked onto his. "I've felt it too, Elijah. Like the world is shifting, ever so slightly. It's hard to explain."

Their gazes held, a shared understanding passing between them.

As the night deepened, Elijah returned home, lost in thought. He settled into bed, his mind whirling.

A faint memory teased him - a glimpse of a desolate landscape, a world ravaged.

Elijah's eyes snapped open. That wasn't his memory. Whose was it? And why did it feel... familiar?

Was it a premonition? Or something more?

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