As Simon turned to leave, his heart heavy with disappointment and resignation, a voice called out, stopping him in his tracks. It was one of the elders, a figure of authority within the Magic Academy, whose eyes held a glimmer of determination as he stepped forward to address them.
"Hold a moment," the elder said, his voice commanding attention. "I understand your concerns, but I cannot allow such potential to go to waste."
Simon and his companions turned to face the elder, their expressions a mix of surprise and uncertainty. They had expected to be cast out, rejected by the academy and left to fend for themselves in a world that viewed them with suspicion and fear.
"I have been watching you closely, young Simon," the elder continued, his gaze fixed on Simon with a penetrating intensity. "Your magic may be wild and untamed, but it is also incredibly powerful. With the right guidance, you could become one of the greatest mages this academy has ever seen."
Simon's heart skipped a beat at the elder's words, a flicker of hope igniting within him despite his doubts. Could it be possible that there was still a chance for him to fulfill his dreams, to learn to control his magic and use it for good?
"I cannot promise that it will be easy," the elder went on, his tone grave and solemn. "But if you are willing to put in the effort, if you are willing to learn and grow, then I will personally take you under my wing and train you myself."
Simon's eyes widened in astonishment, his mind reeling with the possibilities that lay before him. To be trained by one of the most respected elders in the academy—to have the opportunity to unlock his full potential and become the mage he had always dreamed of being—it was almost too much to comprehend.
"But what about us?" Thaddeus interjected, his brow furrowed with concern as he glanced at his companions. "What about Alaric and me?"
The elder turned to regard Thaddeus and Alaric with a thoughtful expression, weighing his words carefully before responding. "You both show promise as well," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of approval. "If you are willing to join us, then you will be welcome to train alongside Simon under my guidance."
Alaric and Thaddeus exchanged glances, a silent understanding passing between them. They had come this far together, facing countless challenges and dangers as a team. And now, it seemed, they had been given an opportunity to continue their journey together, to support each other as they embarked on a new chapter of their lives.
With a sense of determination burning within them, Simon and his companions accepted the elder's offer, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Unbeknownst to them, however, a sinister shadow lurked within the depths of the academy, its malevolent presence casting a dark cloud over their newfound hope and optimism. And as they prepared to embark on their training, they could only pray that they would be able to withstand the trials that awaited them, and emerge victorious against the forces of darkness that sought to destroy them.