June 18, 9 a.m.
The Grand Prix Arena, in central Terry City.
The curvaceous hostess announced excitedly, "Dear spectators, welcome to this thrilling final! We are bringing you the ultimate showdown of the first Lainer World Phantom Magic Cards Open Grand Prix, held right here in Terry City!
Half a month ago, our tournament opened in Terry City. Hundreds of contestants took the stage, each displaying superb card skills and a love for Phantom Magic Cards.
Some were mages from the Mage Towers, some renowned scholars and adventurers, some gentlemen and lords, and others ordinary citizens...
But as the saying goes, everyone is equal at the card table. Every contestant gave their all, treating us to unforgettable performances.
After many rounds of fierce competition, our quarterfinalists and semifinalists emerged. In the end, two contestants rose above the rest to reach this final.
Please welcome Mr. Diego, who has swept aside every obstacle on his unstoppable march to the finals!"
Accompanied by that enthusiastic announcement, Diego emerged in a crisp mage's robe, his hair slicked back and gleaming.
Beaming, he smiled and waved to the crowd, every inch the major star who had become a household name throughout Terry City and Savaran.
Watching from his private box, Roland smiled knowingly.
For some reason, the image that sprang to mind was a pair of heavy doors being pulled open to reveal the God of Gamblers in a suit, his hair slicked back.
Cue the background music!
"Wooo..."
"Come on, Diego!"
"You can win this!"
The apprentices from the Mage Tower cheered.
Residents from Savaran, traveling merchants and adventurers from various regions, and many of Terry City's foreign residents also lavished him with cheers and applause.
After so many days of intensive, nonstop coverage, many people had come to recognize this talented mage