(Opening Scene: Lady Elara Montaigne stands in Astrid's chambers, her face a mask of grim determination as she processes Master Elmsworth's chilling account of Eclipse's protective aggression.)
The image of shadow tendrils lashing out to defend an unconscious Zane, potent enough to trigger a protective barrier, settled heavily in Lady Elara's mind. Combined with Eclipse's incapacitation of Prince Lysander, the evidence was undeniable: this familiar was a significant and unpredictable threat. Her primary concern, as always, was Astrid's safety and the reputation of House Montaigne.
"Master Elmsworth," Lady Elara said, her voice firm, all traces of her earlier uncertainty gone. "Thank you for your candor. Your account confirms my deepest concerns. This… creature… cannot remain unchecked."
She turned to Astrid, her gaze unwavering. "Astrid, I understand your… attachment. But the safety of everyone in this academy, including yourself, must come first. This familiar has demonstrated a capacity for dangerous, uncontrolled aggression."
Astrid's jaw tightened, her hand instinctively going to Eclipse, who remained a silent, watchful presence in her lap. "He was protecting Zane, Aunt Elara. And he protected me from Lysander's unwanted advances."
"His methods are unacceptable," Lady Elara countered, her voice leaving no room for argument. "We cannot have a creature within these walls that attacks students and faculty with such force. Prince Lysander is a royal guest; this incident has serious implications."
She addressed the Montaigne guards stationed outside the door. "I want that… familiar… contained. Summon the academy's most skilled handlers of dangerous magical creatures. Tell them to come prepared for a creature of significant power and potential hostility."
Astrid's eyes widened in alarm. "Contained? Aunt Elara, you can't!"
"I must, Astrid," Lady Elara replied, her expression resolute. "For your safety, and for the safety of the academy. We will have it studied, understood, and if necessary, safely contained. This is not negotiable."
She looked at Eclipse, a mixture of apprehension and determination in her gaze. "Whatever bond exists between you and that void mage, this creature's actions have forced my hand. The potential consequences of allowing it to roam freely are too great."
The chapter ends with Lady Elara's decisive command, setting in motion the potential capture and containment of Eclipse, despite Astrid's growing distress and the unspoken bond between the familiar and Zane.