Thomas stood on the stage of the semifinals. There was a firm light shining in his eyes. He had just defeated his good friend Jack. Although the joy of victory filled his heart, there was also deep guilt and loss. He knew that this competition was a huge challenge for both of them. But the competition was not over yet. He had to focus on facing his next opponent.
His next opponent, Elena, was recognized as a magic genius in the academy. She was proficient in multiple magics and always won in competitions with unexpected strategies. Thomas knew that this would be his toughest competition so far.
On the eve of the competition, Thomas sat alone at the desk in his dormitory, playing with a smooth stone in his hand. This was a lucky charm given to him by Jack. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm his mood. Jack's words echoed in his mind: "No matter what happens, you are the most potential magician I have ever seen."
Thomas opened his eyes. He knew that he couldn't let his friend down or let himself down. He began to review his magic books, looking for possible inspirations and strategies. He knew that he needed to prepare some new magics to deal with Elena's changeable tactics.
The next day, the sun was shining brightly. The square of the academy was crowded with audiences. They excitedly discussed the upcoming competition. Many people thought that this would be a wonderful duel. The names of Thomas and Elena were repeatedly mentioned among the crowd. Everyone was guessing the result of the competition.
The competition began. Thomas and Elena stood at opposite ends of the stage. Their gazes met in the air, full of competitive sparks. As the host gave the order, the two almost simultaneously began to chant incantations. Their wands drew streaks of light in the air.
Elena's magic was full of changes. Her attacks were sometimes as swift as the wind and sometimes as cunning as a snake. Thomas tried hard to deal with them. His defensive magic was solid and flexible and successfully resisted Elena's many attacks. But he knew that just defending was not enough. He needed to find an opportunity to counterattack.
As the competition progressed, Thomas began to feel the pressure. Elena's magic seemed endless, and her strategies were always unexpected. Sweat began to appear on Thomas's forehead, and his breathing became a bit rapid.
In a fierce confrontation, Thomas was almost hit by a fire magic from Elena. He barely dodged the attack, but the edge of his robe had been scorched by the flame. He knew that he couldn't defend passively anymore. He needed to take action.
Thomas took a deep breath. He began to chant a complex incantation. This was a new magic he had recently studied. His wand drew complex trajectories in the air. A powerful energy converged in his palm.
With a roar, that energy struck towards Elena. Elena quickly reacted. She cast her defensive magic and tried to resist Thomas's attack. However, Thomas's magic was too powerful. Elena's defense was broken.
The audience held their breath and watched intently. They saw Thomas's magic hit Elena and push her out of the competition area. The square burst into warm applause and cheers. They cheered for Thomas's performance.
Thomas stood on the stage. His heart was filled with joy and pride. He knew that he had won this competition, but he also knew that this was just a milestone in his magical journey. He still had a long way to go and more challenges waiting for him.
Elena walked towards Thomas. There was a smile on her face. "You did very well, Thomas. Your strength surprised me."
Thomas replied with a smile. "Thank you, Elena. You are also a worthy opponent."
As the competition ended, Thomas walked off the stage. He knew that he was about to face the challenge of the final. But he also knew that no matter what the result was, he had already proved his strength and potential.
He returned to the backstage. Ms. Alison and Jack were both waiting for him. Their smiles and hugs gave him the greatest support and encouragement.
"You did great, Thomas." Ms. Alison said. "I believe you can also show your strength in the final." "Yes, you are amazing!" Jack excitedly patted Thomas on the shoulder. "I knew you could do it."
Thomas smiled. His heart was full of gratitude. He knew that his victory belonged not only to himself but also to those who had always supported him.