As the first ray of morning sunlight penetrated the curtain, Thomas sat up from his bed. His heart was beating a bit faster than usual. Today is the opening day of the academy competition. He knows that this will be an important moment in his magical career. He took a deep breath and tried to calm his excitement.
He put on the magic robe specially prepared for the competition. The robe was embroidered with the academy's badge, symbolizing honor and responsibility. He stood in front of the mirror and carefully checked his attire to make sure everything was in order. He knew that today he represented not only himself but also the honor of the entire academy.
Thomas walked down the stairs and came to the dining room. Many participating magic apprentices had already gathered in the dining room. They were either excitedly chatting or nervously reviewing incantations. Jack saw Thomas and waved at him.
"Good morning, Thomas." There was a hint of nervousness in Jack's voice, but more excitement.
"Good morning, Jack." Thomas replied. His voice was calm, but his heart was in turmoil.
Jack noticed Thomas's nervousness and encouraged him. "Don't worry. You are already well prepared. Today, let's show our strength to our heart's content."
Thomas nodded. He knew that Jack was right. He picked up his breakfast but found that his appetite was not as good as usual. His thoughts kept drifting to the upcoming competition, filled with expectation and uneasiness.
As time passed, the square of the academy began to get lively. Students, mentors, and even some magicians and audiences from outside the school arrived one after one. A huge stage was set up in the center of the square. The audience seats were all around the stage, and behind the stage was a huge scoreboard.
The dean stood in the center of the stage. His voice spread throughout the square through the magic amplifier. "Welcome everyone to the annual academy competition. Today, we will witness the growth and progress of young magicians. May the competition be fair and intense. May every participant show their best selves."
With the dean's announcement, the competition officially opened. The audience burst into warm applause and cheers, and the atmosphere reached a climax all at once.
Thomas and other participants were led to the backstage preparation area. Looking at the people around him, he felt an unprecedented sense of nervousness. He saw some familiar faces and some unfamiliar faces, but everyone's eyes were shining with the desire for victory.
Ms. Alison walked up to Thomas. Her eyes were full of confidence. "Thomas, remember that your strength should not be underestimated. Today, let's see your true strength."
Thomas took a deep breath and nodded. "I will, Ms. Alison." As the competition began, the participants took the stage one after another and showed their magic. The applause and cheers of the audience came one after another, cheering for every participant.
Thomas sat quietly backstage. He closed his eyes and silently chanted incantations, trying to calm his mood. He knew that soon, he would also step onto that stage and face everyone's eyes.
When the host announced that the next participant was Thomas, he stood up, took a deep breath, and then took steps and walked towards the stage. His steps were firm and powerful, and his heart was full of determination. He knew that this would be the moment for him to show his strength and also the beginning of realizing his dream.