(Opening Scene: Prince Lysander lies on the dueling ground, clutching his stomach in pain and humiliation. Zane stands over him, the faint mist of the Null Blade's shards still swirling around his arm. The gathered students murmur in stunned disbelief.)
Headmaster Theron stepped forward, his gaze shifting between the defeated prince and the composed Zane. The display of void magic had been both unexpected and formidable, showcasing a level of control and precision Zane hadn't previously exhibited.
"Prince Lysander," Headmaster Theron said, his tone measured. "Are you… well enough?"
Lysander groaned, attempting to sit up, his face pale. "That… that wasn't a fair fight," he stammered, his voice laced with pain and indignation. "He… he didn't even use a proper weapon."
Headmaster Theron's gaze sharpened, his voice carrying a subtle warning. "On the contrary, Prince Lysander. Had Master Zane chosen to wield his customary weapon, the Null Blade, this duel would have likely concluded far more swiftly… and with considerably more permanent consequences. His restraint in utilizing the shattered shards in such a focused manner demonstrates a degree of control you would be wise to acknowledge."
Lady Elara Montaigne approached, her piercing blue eyes assessing the situation with a keen intensity. She knelt beside her great-nephew, concern etched on her stern face. "Lysander, are you injured?"
"Humiliated," the prince spat, glaring at Zane. "That… that void trickery…"
Lady Elara rose, her gaze now fixed on Zane. There was a flicker of something akin to respect in her eyes, mixed with a clear apprehension. The power he wielded was undeniably potent, and the headmaster's words about his restraint had not gone unnoticed.
Astrid rushed to Zane's side, her hand reaching for his. "Zane, are you alright? That looked… intense."
Zane nodded, a faint weariness settling over him. "I'm fine, Astrid. Just… focused."
Headmaster Theron addressed the gathered students, his voice carrying authority. "The duel is concluded. I trust this has been a… learning experience for all involved. Please return to your studies." The students dispersed slowly, buzzing with excited whispers about the unexpected turn of events and the headmaster's pointed remark.
Turning his attention back to the defeated prince and the Montaigne delegation, Headmaster Theron said, "Prince Lysander, Lady Elara, perhaps it would be best if we discussed this further in my office. Doctor Finch can attend to your… discomfort, Prince."
Lady Elara nodded curtly, assisting the still-groaning Lysander to his feet. Her gaze lingered on Zane for a moment, a silent acknowledgment of his unexpected victory and the implied danger of his true weapon. The Montaigne delegation, their initial arrogance somewhat subdued, followed Headmaster Theron towards the academy's main building, leaving Zane and Astrid standing alone on the deserted dueling grounds.
"He won't be bothering you again anytime soon," Astrid said, a triumphant smile gracing her lips.
Zane managed a small, tired smile in return. "Hopefully not. But I have a feeling this isn't the last we'll hear from Prince Lysander." The victory had come at the cost of revealing more of his unpredictable power, and the attention of powerful figures was now firmly fixed upon him.