The Maskmaker's Apprentice (Masks of Terremar, Book 1)

No one chooses a mask in Terremar. Masks are bestowed by parents, master, or destiny, and the spirits within grant each bearer a place in the world. Those who choose their own masks defy the ancient order-and risk awakening powers they cannot comprehend. So teach the ancients. But Elu, the restless son of Gheb's village teacher, wants a life of his own choosing. He scorns his apprenticeship to the village potter, bringing shame upon his family, and dreams only of adventure beyond the familiar hills. Then Elu and his childhood companion, Thora, enter the forbidden barrows and discover two masks of legend. One seizes Thora and answers her deepest anger with terrible power. She escapes into Terremar, leaving destruction in her wake-and Elu carrying the only mask that may be able to stop her. Running from home, guilt, and the evil he helped unleash, Elu must finally accept the responsibility he has spent his life avoiding. For a mask of legend is created through power and sacrifice-and only power and sacrifice can unmake one.