As the competition drew near, a trace of doubt began to emerge in Thomas's heart. Lying on his bed, his eyes fixed on the ceiling, his mind was filled with countless thoughts. He recalled his efforts over the past few months, those days and nights of learning and training, and the sweat and efforts he had put in for creating innovative magic. He began to question whether he was really ready to face the upcoming challenges.
In the morning, Thomas came to the training ground as usual, but his mood was obviously much heavier. His movements were no longer as smooth as before, and the chanting of incantations also seemed a bit stiff. Ms. Alison noticed his abnormality and walked up to him, asking with concern, "Thomas, what's wrong with you today? You seem a bit absent-minded."
Thomas stopped his actions and sighed. He frankly said, "Ms. Alison, I... I'm a bit worried. I'm afraid I can't meet everyone's expectations."
Ms. Alison gently patted his shoulder. Her eyes were full of understanding and encouragement. "Thomas, your worry is normal. Every contestant will have such a moment. But you have to remember that your value is not determined by a single competition."
Thomas was silent for a while, then raised his head and looked at Ms. Alison seriously. "I understand what you mean, but I still can't help thinking, what if I fail?"
Ms. Alison replied with a smile, "Failure is the mother of success, Thomas. You will learn much more from failure than from victory. Moreover, I believe in you. I know you have the ability to overcome these doubts."
A warm current surged in Thomas's heart. He knew that Ms. Alison was right. He took a deep breath, cheered up again, and continued his training.
However, even though he had made progress in training, Thomas's heart was still filled with uneasiness. He began to doubt whether his magical innovation was really powerful enough and whether it could play a role in the competition. He began to constantly modify and adjust his magic, trying to make it more perfect.
His roommate Jack noticed Thomas's changes and decided to find an opportunity to talk to him. One night, when they were walking back to the dormitory together, Jack spoke up. "Thomas, I know you are under a lot of pressure recently, but you have to know that you have already done very well."
Thomas shook his head. "I don't know, Jack. I always feel that I haven't done enough."
Jack stopped in his tracks and looked at Thomas seriously. "Listen, Thomas. You are my roommate and also my friend. I see your efforts every day. I know how much you care about this competition. But you have to relax a bit and don't let the pressure overwhelm you."
Thomas looked at Jack, and a glimmer of gratitude flashed in his eyes. "Thank you, Jack. I will do my best." Jack smiled and patted his back. "That's good. Don't forget, you are not fighting alone. We all support you."
In the following days, Thomas began to try to adjust his mentality. He no longer overly focused on the result of the competition but concentrated on the training process. He began to enjoy every casting of magic and every chanting of incantations. He found that he was enjoying the fun of magic itself.
He also began to communicate with his classmates and share his doubts and worries. He found that many people had similar feelings. They encouraged and supported each other and jointly faced the pressure brought by the competition.
As time passed, Thomas's doubts gradually lessened. He began to regain his confidence and determination. He knew that no matter what the result of the competition was, he had already done his best, and that was enough.
On the eve of the competition, Thomas stood on the balcony of the dormitory, looking at the starry sky. He took a deep breath and let his soul find tranquility under the starlight. He knew that tomorrow he would face an important competition, but he also knew that he was already prepared.
He closed his eyes and murmured in his heart, "No matter what the result is, I will face it bravely. Because I know that I am not only fighting for victory but also for my dream and love."