It had been two years since Levi and Mark had taken the Wilderness Test, and a lot had changed in their lives since then. They had both become Advanced Mages, honing their magical abilities and continuing their studies at the prestigious academy they attended.
As they made their way to class one morning, they noticed a buzz of excitement in the air. Students were gathered in small groups, chatting animatedly and gesturing toward the front of the room.
Curious, Levi and Mark made their way through the crowd to see what was going on. At the front of the room stood their professor, looking serious and determined.
"Students," he said, his voice commanding attention. "I have an announcement to make."
The room grew quiet as the students turned their attention to the front of the room.
"As you all know, you have been working hard and have become Advanced Mages," he continued. "And now, the academy will be holding a competition."
The room erupted in excited chatter as the students looked at each other, wondering what kind of competition it would be.
"The competition will be a chance for many representatives from different groups to invite you to join their ranks," the professor announced. "This is a great opportunity for all of you to showcase your skills and find a path forward in the magical world."
The professor continued, "There will be representatives from various magical organizations. They will be looking for talented individuals who can help them in their work and contribute to their organizations."
The room buzzed with excitement as the students started discussing which organizations they were interested in and what skills they had to offer.
The excitement in the room was palpable as the professor's words sunk in. Levi and Mark exchanged a look of excitement, realizing that this competition could be the opportunity they had been waiting for.
The thought of being recruited by a powerful magical organization was thrilling, and they knew they had to prepare for the competition if they wanted to make a good impression.
As the students started discussing the different organizations that would be attending the competition, Levi and Mark listened intently, trying to decide which group they wanted to impress the most.
Suddenly, the conversation was interrupted by the sound of someone clearing their throat loudly. They turned to see Jameson, a fellow student who had a reputation for being a troublemaker, standing in front of them with his usual group of henchmen.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the Advanced Mages," Jameson sneered. "I heard you guys are getting ready for the competition. Think you have what it takes to beat me and my crew?"
Levi and Mark exchanged a knowing look, already aware of Jameson's tendency to cause trouble. They tried to ignore him, hoping he would go away, but Jameson wasn't finished yet.
"You guys might be good at magic, but do you have the guts to face us in a real fight?" he taunted.
Levi, however, didn't care about Jameson's words and instead, he directed a mocking retort toward him. "I think I have the guts," he said confidently, "Don't you remember that I always beat you in the end?"
Jameson's face turned red with anger and his henchmen looked nervously at each other, unsure of what to do. Levi had a reputation for being skilled in combat and had previously bested Jameson in several duels.
"You got lucky," Jameson spat, "But this time it will be different. I have some new tricks up my sleeve that will leave you and your friend in the dust."
Levi laughed, not intimidated by Jameson's threats. "Bring it on," he said, "I'm always up for a good challenge."
Mark, however, was more cautious. He knew that Jameson and his group were known for using underhanded tactics in their fights, and he didn't want to risk getting hurt.
"Levi, let's not get into a fight with them," he said, "We need to focus on the competition and not let ourselves get distracted."
Levi nodded, realizing that Mark was right. They couldn't afford to get into a fight and risk getting hurt, especially with the competition just around the corner.
"Fine, you win this time, Jameson," Levi said, "But don't get too cocky. We'll see who comes out on top in the end."
Jameson sneered at them before turning and walking away with his henchmen in tow. Levi and Mark watched him go before turning back to their discussion about the upcoming competition.
As Levi and Jameson left the room, the other students watched silently, knowing that tension often followed in the wake of their encounters.
It had been two years since the Wilderness Test, and during that time, Levi and Jameson had both established themselves as some of the best mages at the academy.
One student turned to another, whispering, "I can't believe Jameson has the nerve to challenge Levi like that. He knows Levi always beats him in the end."
The other student nodded in agreement, adding, "It's like he's trying to start a fight or something."
Another student chimed in, "I don't know why Jameson is always trying to prove himself. He's not even that good at magic."
The first student shrugged, "I guess he just likes causing trouble. But I don't think Levi will fall for it."
Meanwhile, Levi and Mark were making their way down the hallway, still discussing Jameson and his constant need for attention.
"I can't believe he still thinks he can beat us," Levi scoffed. "Doesn't he remember all the times I've beaten him before?"
Mark chuckled, "I don't think Jameson cares about that. He just wants to prove himself to everyone else."
Levi nodded in agreement, "Yeah, I guess you're right. But I'm not going to waste my time on him. I have bigger things to worry about, like preparing for the competition."
Mark nodded, "Agreed. We need to focus on showing our skills to the representatives from the different organizations."
As they walked, they overheard snippets of conversation from other students who had witnessed their encounter with Jameson.
"Did you see the look on Levi's face when Jameson challenged him?"
"Levi's always been the best. I don't think Jameson stands a chance."
Levi and Mark exchanged a knowing look. They were both determined to win the competition and show everyone what they were capable of.