Earth's Greatest Magus

As another day elapsed, despite Klea, Urix, and the collective efforts of all hall 120 acolytes, there was still a noticeable absence of new recruits. Nearly all the undecided acolytes had made their choices, leaving the hall in a precarious position with almost zero prospects.

However, this dire situation served as a powerful motivation for the two centurions, Titus and Armenius. They had heard of the hall's plight and were resolute in their commitment to conquer the Perseverance Mountain, even if it meant breaking their bones.

"This is our purpose!" exclaimed Titus, his voice resolute with determination. "Our master needs us, and we will scale this mountain today!"

With unwavering resolve, the two Romans embarked on their ascent. Each step they took seemed imbued with newfound strength. The weight of thousands of stairs felt slightly less burdensome in the wake of their determination.

As they ascended, the pressure mounted with each passing milestone, testing their endurance and resolve. Yet, side by side, Titus and Armenius remained steadfast, undeterred by the increasing strain slowing their progress.

It took them a grueling one and a half hours to conquer the 10,000 steps, ascending above the clouds, and an additional 45 minutes to tackle the daunting next 1000 steps. Finally, they stood at the pinnacle of the 11,000 steps, chests heaving as they gasped for breath, facing the sheer vertical cliff of the Tenacity Peak.

It was a new personal record, almost 10 minutes faster than their previous attempt. Yet, they knew they were still a few minutes short of their earth friends who had conquered the peak last week. With no time for rest, they steeled themselves for the next challenge.

"Keep pushing forward!" Titus exclaimed, his voice echoing with determination. Armenius followed suit, shouting, "Defeat the mountain!" Their words spurred each other on, their resolve unwavering as they encouraged one another to reach greater heights.

With renewed vigor, they began their ascent of the vertical cliff, each stone a formidable obstacle as they battled against the relentless pressure pulling them downward. Despite the overwhelming odds, they refused to yield, drawing upon their inner strength and pushing themselves to their limits.

"We can do this! AARGHH, we can!" Their voices echoed off the cliff face, a testament to their unwavering determination and indomitable spirit.

As they reached the halfway point, their fingers began to tremble from exhaustion, and they realized they could no longer ascend at the required pace. In a desperate bid to make up for lost time, the two acolytes decided to utilize their prepared items. They retrieved a durable rope from their packs and tethered themselves together, forming a makeshift harness.

With this tactic, they devised a strategy to conserve energy and support each other's ascent. One would climb while the other rested, relying on the rope to alternate their efforts.

There was no explicit rule against using such items, it was unconventional, and many who had thought about it before, doubted its effectiveness. Also, none seems willing to sacrifice their individual strength for the sake of their partner.

These two acolytes were uniquely suited for this tactic. Not only did they possess comparable strengths, but they also understood that every added second could really help their chances of success. With the urgent need for two new members in Hall 120, they were determined to finish together, regardless of the obstacles they faced.

Their rigorous years of Roman training in teamwork proved invaluable. They seamlessly alternated between climbing and resting, maximizing every moment to gain ground on the daunting peak. The deep trust they had in each other fueled their determination, as neither was willing to let the other falter.

With every foothold and handhold, their synchronized efforts propelled them upward. And as they finally reached the summit, their triumphant shouts echoed through the mountainside, a testament to their shared victory.

"WOOO!!! WE DID IT!!"

"WE REALLY DID IT!!"

Their voices rang with glee and accomplishment.

As soon as they teleported back through the gate, Ha Ron, Kingrig, and half a dozen other hall 120 acolytes were already gathered, eagerly awaiting their return. Cheers erupted from the group as they congratulated the triumphant duo.

Even the two academy staff members guarding the gate couldn't contain their happiness, impressed by the perseverance and determination displayed by Titus and Armenius. Many had given up after just a week, but these two had persisted for three, attempting the climb a staggering 80 times before finally succeeding.

"Never did I think you two kids could actually do it."

"Congratulations! Both of you are now inner hall acolytes,"

With their successful ascent, Hall 120 had finally reached its minimum required number of members.

From the vantage point of a nearby building, the cheerful sight was seen by Shinta. She had been watching and waiting since morning. She was hoping for a sign. Maybe if both of them failed, she would have no reason to apply for Hall 120. If they succeeded and reached their quota, she would have less reason to apply, as they wouldn't really need her anymore. She was actually hoping only one of them would succeed, seeing it as a sign for her to join.

Now, with both Titus and Armenius's successes confirmed, unfortunately for Shinta, her dilemma has only intensified. With the hall's numbers now reaching twenty, Hall 120 would be adequately filled without her joining. Yet, despite this rational observation, her heart continued to wrestle with her mind.

"Why does this decision feel so hard? It's merely joining a hall... It's not as though I won't be able to see him anymore," she murmured, trying to rationalize her emotions.

As Shinta wrestled with her internal dilemma, she was caught off guard by the unexpected approach of an individual. This person, would ultimately play a crucial role in shaping her decision.

####

Later in the day, Hall 120 was alive with exuberance as acolytes rejoiced in the success of Titus and Armenius. Their achievement not only fulfilled personal aspirations but also met the hall's minimum requirement, sparking a wave of celebration throughout the hall. Amidst the revelry, Emery's gaze continuously darted toward the entrance with a sense of anticipation, as if awaiting the arrival of someone.

In a surprising turn of events, just moments before the deadline loomed, an individual indeed arrived, bringing the final count of acolytes to Hall 120.

[Final acolyte number: 21]

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Author's Note:

I have been contemplating this for weeks now. The truth is, I have two different paths for the story, and although I currently lean towards one storyline, I haven't really made up my mind yet. With only 24 hours left, please share your comments on how you think this should proceed. Thank you.