I wonder how Bastian managed to live his life knowing that he'll get his freedom stripped away one day
No way anyone would be mentally stable after being told that at a certain age you'll become a slave by the Shadow, especially being a kid after having that scary encounter. If I was in his position, I would be being brawling my eyes out at any age after being remind of that curse. Not to mention that it was his fault for being cursed!
Surely after getting home that day, Child!Bastian must've told his whole family about the whole curse thing (Who wouldn't? Unless he was too afraid of getting into trouble for going somewhere he shouldn't be).
Bastian must've had a really good therapist at some point to help him accept his predetermined fate (I don't know how else you can make someone feel better about being cursed🤷). Speaking of therapists, I hope therapy is cheap in Hidden Town, considering how often people go through truamatising experiences.


















