(Opening Scene: Zane lies semiconscious in the infirmary bed, Astrid by his side, as the academy healers attempt various restorative spells and potions. Their efforts appear to be in vain, the remedies vanishing into him without any visible improvement.)
The elder healer carefully poured a shimmering potion between Zane's lips, but it seemed to disappear as soon as it was swallowed, leaving no discernible change in his pallor or breathing. Another healer channeled a gentle stream of healing magic towards Zane, his hands glowing with a soft green light. The energy flowed towards Zane, enveloping him, but there was no visible absorption, no return of color to his face, no easing of his shallow breaths. It was as if the magic was being drawn into a void.
Frustration and concern etched the healers' faces. "The energy… it's being taken in," the younger healer murmured, bewildered, "but it's not having any effect. It's like trying to fill a bottomless pit."
Astrid watched, her worry deepening. Their attempts to help were clearly not working. As the healers continued their efforts, a ripple of shadow spread across the floor of the infirmary, originating from the corner of the room. The temperature dropped subtly, and a palpable sense of ancient power filled the air.
Eclipse began to materialize, its shadowy serpentine form solidifying with an intensity that was far more defined than its usual subtle presence. Its dark eyes, glowing with a faint inner light, fixed on the healers surrounding Zane's bed. A low, resonant hum emanated from its form, a sound that vibrated not through the air but deep within their chests.
The healers recoiled slightly, instinctively halting their ministrations. They could feel the immense power radiating from the shadowy serpent, a silent warning that their interference was unwelcome. Even Master Elmsworth, who had just entered the infirmary, paused at the doorway, his eyes widening as he observed the scene – the unresponsive Zane, the watchful Astrid, and the imposing, silent guardian.
Eclipse remained coiled near Zane's bed, its gaze unwavering on the healers. There was no overt threat, no hiss or growl, just a profound sense of possessive power that filled the room, a clear indication that Zane was under its protection and their conventional methods were not only ineffective but perhaps even intrusive.
Master Elmsworth observed the scene with a thoughtful frown, realizing that Zane's condition was far more complex than simple magical exhaustion and that his recovery might be tied to forces they didn't understand. The healers, sensing the futility of their efforts and the silent command of the shadowy guardian, slowly backed away from Zane's bed, allowing Eclipse to maintain its vigil.