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Chapter 3 - The Forbidden Library

Weeks passed since Duy Anh's Sorting Ceremony, and Minh Triet University of Magic had become his new home. The crisp mountain air of Dalat mingled with the scent of enchanted flora as he wandered the sprawling campus, still marveling at its beauty and mystery.

One afternoon, as he explored the labyrinthine corridors of the library, Duy Anh stumbled upon a secluded section hidden behind an ancient tapestry. The air grew colder, and the whispers of forgotten spells filled his ears as he stepped into the Forbidden Library—a repository of knowledge deemed too dangerous or powerful for ordinary students.

Books lined the shelves, their spines adorned with symbols that pulsed with arcane energy. Duy Anh approached cautiously, drawn to the allure of forbidden knowledge. He selected a tome at random and began to read, its pages revealing spells and incantations that defied logic and challenged the boundaries of magic itself.

Lost in his studies, Duy Anh failed to notice the approach of Headmaster Thien Minh until the older man stood beside him, his presence commanding yet gentle.

"Duy Anh," Headmaster Minh's voice echoed through the library, "curiosity is a trait I admire. However, some knowledge comes with great responsibility."

Startled, Duy Anh closed the book and turned to face him, a mix of guilt and curiosity in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Headmaster. I didn't mean to—"

Headmaster Minh raised a hand, his expression unreadable. "You possess a rare gift, Duy Anh. Your thirst for knowledge is commendable, but the secrets of this library are not to be taken lightly. There are forces beyond our understanding, and some paths lead to darkness."

Duy Anh nodded, chastened by the headmaster's words. "I understand, sir. I won't enter the Forbidden Library again."

Headmaster Minh regarded him for a moment before a faint smile touched his lips. "You are young, Duy Anh, and the path of a mage is fraught with temptation. Remember, true wisdom lies not only in what you learn, but in how you use it."

With a final nod, Headmaster Minh departed, leaving Duy Anh to ponder his words amidst the hushed silence of the Forbidden Library. As he made his way back to the main corridors, he couldn't shake the feeling that he had only scratched the surface of the mysteries hidden within Minh Triet.