(Opening Scene: Zane and Astrid lie in the infirmary, recounting the strange events to Headmaster Theron and Xander. The unsettling image of Eclipse's black eyes lingers in their minds.)
As Zane and Astrid continued to discuss the commanding voice and the unsettling change in Eclipse, a collective gasp filled the infirmary. All eyes turned towards the doorway, where a moment ago, there had been only the empty hall.
Now, perched on the railing at the foot of Zane's bed, was Eclipse. His obsidian scales gleamed as always, and most remarkably, his eyes were no longer the terrifying void of black. They were their familiar, intelligent gold, observing Zane with an intensity that held both concern and a deep, unwavering loyalty.
A wave of relief washed over Zane. "Eclipse!" he exclaimed, instinctively reaching out.
Headmaster Theron and Xander stared in astonishment. "But… the containment room… it's magically sealed," Headmaster Theron stammered, utterly bewildered. "How…?"
Eclipse didn't offer any explanation. His golden gaze remained locked on Zane's. Then, in a blink, he was gone from the railing, reappearing instantly, coiling himself gently onto Zane's chest, his familiar weight a comforting presence.
Astrid smiled, a genuine wave of relief washing over her as well. "He's back," she whispered, reaching out to stroke Eclipse's scales.
Zane felt the familiar mental touch of Eclipse, a sense of reassurance and a silent apology for the strange, detached state he had been in. The commanding voice was gone, replaced by the familiar warmth of their bond.
The mystery of Eclipse's transformation and his impossible escape from the magically sealed containment room remained, but for Zane and Astrid, his return was a welcome sign of normalcy amidst the unsettling events.