Chapter 6

It was the best time of the school session, where happiness filled the air and students buzzed with excitement for the upcoming magic game that would take place. The game was a highly anticipated event, combining skill, strategy, and the thrill of competition.

Andrew, approached Ethan and invited him to join the game. However, much to Andrew's surprise, Ethan politely refused. Andrew couldn't understand why Ethan would pass up such a fantastic opportunity to showcase his magical abilities and have the time of his life.

Determined to convince his friend, Andrew engaged in a passionate argument with Ethan,

"Come on Ethan the game would be a blast and if you didn't join you would be missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime experience to enjoy the competitive sprite". Andrew pointed

While the two debated, Sofia, walked in on there argument she curiously inquired about the topic at hand. Ethan, feeling somewhat embarrassed to admit that he had no interest in participating, quickly changed the subject

"Hey Sofia how are you" Ethan wave at Sofia

"it seems like the whole school is exited about the coming game" her curiosity set in and she couldn't help but ask Ethan if he was planning to compete in the upcoming magical game.

Feeling cornered, Ethan hesitated for a moment, at a loss for what to say. Not wanting to admit the truth, he reluctantly nodded his head and muttered a soft "yes." Andrew, who had been listening intently, burst into laughter upon hearing Ethan's response.

Sofia, blissfully unaware of Ethan's true intentions, beamed with excitement, "really well I will be there to support you" assuring him

She was thrilled at the prospect of witnessing Ethan's magical prowess and couldn't wait to cheer him on during the game.

Meanwhile, while everyone was gathered at the school cafeteria, engrossed in conversations and laughter,

Stephan, a popular student known for his impressive track record of winning game trophies, made his grand entrance accompanied by two of his friends and his father, who happened to be a teacher at the school.

As Stephan strolled in, his father proudly cleared a path for him, took a handkerchief from a generous student and used it to meticulously clean a table for his son,

Stephan sat down, oozing with confidence, while his friends stood beside him, seemingly acting as his bodyguards.

As Stephan took his seat, he surveyed the room with an air of superiority, peering down at the other students as if they were mere peasants below him.

Clapping his hands, he beckoned for attention. The doors swung open, revealing four students majestically carrying a trophy on a sled.They walked with utmost grace, as though they were carrying the crown jewels belonging to Queen Elizabeth herself.

Without missing a beat, they placed the trophy in front of Stephan, who stood up and began to lovingly rub his hands over the trophy's polished surface. A mischievous grin appeared on his face as he looked towards trophy "See you soon buddy" he altered as he continues rubbing his hands on the trophy

Ethan couldn't help but be intrigued by the scene unfolding before them. Ignoring the air of arrogance that surrounded Stephan, he leaned towards Andrew and asked, "Who is that guy?" Andrew, with a knowing smile, whispered back, "That, my friend, is your biggest competitor cause against him be prepare to lose"

At the school's arena, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. The air was filled with the sounds of students cheering from every corner, their enthusiasm echoing through the halls.

The magical horn blew itself from all corners of the arena, adding to the electrifying atmosphere. As the 16 contestants prepared to make their way into the arena, Ethan's face displayed his nerves.

He seemed unsure, lacking the confidence the other contestants exuded. But as he scanned the cheering crowd, his eyes landed on Sofia.

In that brief moment, his mind found solace and his courage increased. Just as the contestants were settling into their places,

Mr. Hangrave stood up. With a warm smile, he greeted the contestants and addressed the rambunctious audience.

His words carried a sense of anticipation and mystery. "Welcome, all you brave contestants!" Mr. Hangrave's voice boomed through the arena, capturing everyone's attention.

"Today, we embark on a remarkable adventure, a test of your abilities and resilience." He went on to explain that the game consisted of two sections, and the contestants needed to form two groups. The first section required the groups to venture into the Lost Forest and find a legendary stone known as the Adder Stone.

This stone was rumored to possess extraordinary magical powers, ranging from protection against evil charms to the ability to cure ailments and see through illusions.

"The group that finds the Adder Stone first will advance to the next section of the game," Mr. Hangrave announced, his eyes glimmering with intrigue.

"But remember, this is not an easy task. The Lost Forest is filled with perilous trials and unexpected challenges."

Ethan knew that the only way he could progress to the next section is to join Stephan group so he did

To ensure that everyone in the school could witness the contestants' journey, Mr. Hangrave cast an astral projection spell, projecting the participants' experiences onto a magical screen in the arena. And told the contestants to chant ( Accipe me domum) three times for them to be teleported back home

The cheers from the students intensified, their enthusiasm reaching new heights. With a flick of his wrist, Mr. Hangrave opened a portal, revealing a shimmering pathway leading into the dense and mystical Lost Forest.

The contestants, fueled by a mix of adrenaline and determination, stepped forward, ready to face whatever lay ahead. As they made their way through the portal, the students' cheers transformed into encouraging chants, showcasing their support and belief in the contestants.

The atmosphere crackled with high creativity, the energy radiating in every corner of the arena. Ethan's heart pounded in his chest as he stepped into the unknown.

The forest loomed before him, its ancient trees whispering secrets and possibilities. "I can do this," he whispered to himself, channeling the courage in him.

The journey through the Lost Forest would test the contestants' strength, wit, and resilience..