(Opening Scene: The Lumina Academy faculty lounge, buzzing with an even more intense energy than before. Instructors are gathered, their discussions now bordering on heated arguments as they dissect Zane and Astrid's training ground demonstrations.)
The sheer power and innovative techniques displayed by Zane and Astrid had sent ripples through the faculty. The instructors, initially impressed, were now fiercely competitive, each eager to claim the two prodigies as their own.
"That shadow manipulation, the speed, the precision!" Master Silas exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Zane possesses a natural affinity for the Umbral Arts. He must be under my tutelage!"
"While his connection to shadow is undeniable," Mistress Elara countered, her voice calm but firm, "Astrid's control over the elements is equally extraordinary. The Tempestuous Onslaught... it was a masterpiece of elemental synergy! She deserves a mentor who can further refine that delicate balance, someone like myself."
Master Valerius, usually stoic, slammed a fist on the table. "Enough with the flowery words! Zane's power is raw, untamed. He needs discipline, structure, the kind of rigorous training I provide. And Astrid's control, while impressive, needs to be tempered with resilience, the ability to withstand immense pressure. My methods are the only way to forge true strength!"
The debate escalated, each instructor extolling the virtues of their own teaching style and expertise, subtly undermining the others. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense, a far cry from the usual academic decorum.
Then, Master Anya, ever pragmatic, interjected with a shrewd glint in her eyes. "Let's be realistic. We all desire to guide these students. Perhaps… a system of allocation is in order."
A hush fell over the room as the instructors turned to her, intrigued.
"A bidding system," Master Anya proposed, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Each of us will present what we can offer these students – resources, specialized training, access to rare texts, unique opportunities. Zane and Astrid will then choose their mentors based on the most compelling offer."
The other instructors, initially taken aback by the audacious suggestion, slowly began to consider its merits. It was unconventional, even slightly scandalous, but it would ensure that the students received the best possible guidance, and it would add a thrilling element of competition.
The faculty lounge transformed into an impromptu auction house. Master Silas promised Zane access to forbidden texts on shadow magic, while Mistress Elara offered Astrid a chance to study ancient elemental harmonies. Master Valerius boasted of his grueling training regimen that would forge them into unbreakable warriors.
The bidding grew more intense, instructors offering increasingly extravagant incentives. It was a testament to the sheer potential of Zane and Astrid, that seasoned mages would engage in such a blatant display of ambition. The air crackled with anticipation, the fate of the two prodigies hanging in the balance.