(Opening Scene: Zane and Astrid are informed, perhaps by a nervous senior student, of the unusual debate and "bidding" happening amongst the academy instructors regarding their mentorship. They exchange bewildered glances in the relative quiet of their shared dorm.)
"They're… what?" Zane asked, a mixture of disbelief and unease in his voice. The idea of seasoned mages essentially vying for them like prized possessions was both flattering and deeply unsettling.
Astrid's stormy eyes narrowed in confusion. "Bidding? Like… buying us?" The concept felt foreign and slightly insulting, despite the implied recognition of their abilities. They had expected to be assigned classes and instructors based on their aptitudes, not to be the subject of a faculty auction.
"But… we wanted to take classes together," Zane said, looking at Astrid, a hint of worry in his eyes. The thought of being separated, of their paths diverging so early in their academy journey, was unwelcome. Their shared experiences had forged a strong bond, and the idea of navigating this new world alone was daunting.
Just as they were grappling with this bizarre news, a gentle knock echoed on their dorm room door. It opened to reveal Headmaster Theron, his expression calm but with a hint of amusement in his eyes. He seemed aware of the commotion his exceptional students had caused.
"Zane, Astrid," he said, his voice carrying its usual quiet authority. "I understand you may have heard about… the enthusiastic discussions amongst our faculty regarding your mentorship."
Zane and Astrid exchanged uneasy glances.
Headmaster Theron chuckled softly. "Their eagerness is a testament to your remarkable potential. However," his tone shifted to a more serious note, "the Lumina Academy is not a marketplace. While the instructors are indeed keen to guide your development, the decision of who mentors whom will not be determined by a bidding war."
Relief washed over Zane and Astrid. The idea of being auctioned off had felt demeaning.
"Your desire to continue your studies together is understandable," Headmaster Theron continued, his gaze softening. "Your unique circumstances and the bond you have formed will be taken into consideration. However," he paused, his eyes twinkling slightly, "you may find that different instructors possess expertise that will benefit you in different ways."
He gestured vaguely in the direction of the faculty lounge. "Rest assured, the faculty's… spirited debate… will inform my decision. I will be meeting with each of them to understand their perspectives and how they believe they can best nurture your talents. Your preferences will also be taken into account."
Headmaster Theron smiled reassuringly. "For now, focus on settling in and recovering. The specifics of your curriculum and mentorship will be decided soon. Try not to let the faculty's… enthusiasm… overwhelm you." With a final nod, he left them to process this new development.
Zane and Astrid looked at each other, a mixture of relief and lingering uncertainty in their eyes. The "bidding war" had been averted, but the question of their future guidance, and whether they would remain together, still hung in the air.