Vanta began recounting the tale of how he acquired his extraordinary abilities to his friends. He told them everything that happens prior to his duel with Letto.
It happened a week prior to the mana aptitude test when he embarked on a quest to find a Tulk card at the Card Trade Center.
The Card Trade Center resembled a sprawling mall, boasting a wide assortment of Tulk cards catering to various needs. From cards designed for mundane everyday tasks to those geared towards combat, the center offered an extensive range of options.
The storage and security of these cards surpassed even that of banks, ensuring a level of tightness and protection unparalleled in the industry. The center exuded an atmosphere that was both comfortable and casual, akin to a shopping center, while retaining a sense of formality and tidiness reminiscent of a bank or an office.
Vanta eagerly made his way to the Card Trade Center to catch a glimpse of the highly anticipated new batch of cards set to be released in the store. He soon discovered that he was not alone in his excitement, as throngs of people had gathered early in the morning, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness and purchase these coveted cards.
Despite his enthusiasm for the cards, Vanta did not attend with the intention to purchase any of them, as their prices proved to be exorbitant. For instance, a single fireball Tulk card alone cost as much as a meal to sustain a family of three for an entire day.
The prices were so exorbitant that only rich families or renowned magicians could afford to assemble an entire deck of Tulk cards. It became clear to Vanta that these cards were reserved for the privileged few, adding an air of exclusivity to the world of Tulk card collecting.
Vanta could only observe as the cards were unveiled and released from the store. Some of the cards were prominently displayed, captivating the entire crowd with their impressive appearance. They truly exuded an aura of elegance and aesthetic appeal.
He felt a tinge of sadness, realizing that he would never be able to possess these coveted cards. However, little did he know that his fortune was about to take a dramatic turn.
A tall, imposing figure clad in a suit and a long coat that reached down to his knees strolled into the store with an air of nonchalance. His presence alone caught Vanta's attention, as the man exuded a menacing aura that made him stand out from the ordinary crowd.
"Hey, kids, interested in buying some cards?" the man called out, his voice laced with an intriguing mix of mystery and temptation. He casually opened his coat, revealing a hidden assortment of cards discreetly tucked away inside. "I can offer them at a surprisingly low price."
As Vanta scanned the array of cards presented before him, he couldn't help but notice the diverse collection offered by the man. "You're a trader?" Vanta inquired, curious about the nature of the man's business.
"Indeed, I specialize in acquiring and selling Tulk cards," the man replied with a knowing smile. "So, is there something that catches your eye? Anything that piques your interest?" he asked, eager to gauge Vanta's desires and cater to his specific preferences.
Vanta's gaze fixed upon a specific card that caught his attention among the ones the man was selling—the Wicked Tracer. It was a spell of remarkable versatility, capable of targeting enemies automatically or being manually directed. The destructive power and maneuverability of the spell were exceptional, as it relentlessly pursued its target until impact, detonating upon contact.
Having dedicated considerable time to studying various spells for future use, Vanta knew that the Wicked Tracer Tulk card held immense potential. He had diligently saved a substantial amount of money from his allowance specifically to acquire a Tulk card, and if he could only afford one, this was the card he would choose without hesitation.
Vanta's eyes lit up with excitement as he pointed at the Wicked Tracer card, firmly making up his mind about his choice. "How much is this one?" he asked, eager to know the price of the card he desired.
The man selling the cards was taken aback and caught off guard by Vanta's selection. He hadn't expected a young child to opt for such a challenging card, given its difficulty to master. "Oh, this one? It's only 100 gold," he responded, offering a surprisingly low price.
Vanta's surprise quickly transformed into disappointment. Although the card was cheaper than its store counterpart, the price was still beyond his reach. It would deplete his entire savings, leaving him with nothing for emergencies. He hesitated, torn between his desire to own the card and the practicality of preserving his savings.
"Thank you, but I will have to pass," Vanta reluctantly declined, his voice tinged with disappointment.
"Why, kid? Don't you have enough money?" the man inquired, attempting to entice Vanta with other, more affordable options.
"It's alright. I'm not interested in any other card," Vanta replied with a hint of resignation, realizing that his dream of obtaining the Wicked Tracer card would have to be put on hold for the time being.
"Why don't you want any other card?" the man persisted, curious about Vanta's specific reasoning.
Vanta paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before responding, "It's because other cards won't suffice. The Wicked Tracer serves a specific purpose in battle—it allows me to assert control over the battlefield, compelling my opponents to move in the direction I desire. Additionally, its power makes it a suitable main attack. I can counterbalance its slow speed by utilizing other lower-level spells effectively."
Vanta's explanation highlighted the unique advantages and strategic value that the Wicked Tracer card offered. He knew that settling for a different card would compromise his intended combat strategy, rendering it less effective. Therefore, he remained resolute in his decision, determined to acquire the Wicked Tracer card at a time when he could afford it without jeopardizing his financial stability.
"This kid is smart... no, a genius!" the trader thought to himself, thoroughly impressed by Vanta's well-thought-out reasoning. He had never expected to encounter such a young individual capable of formulating such sophisticated tactics prior to purchasing a card. Most kids around Vanta's age were typically drawn to flashy and powerful cards, rather than the complexities of a strategic option like the Wicked Tracer. The trader couldn't help but marvel at Vanta's strategic mindset, reminiscent of a seasoned duelist who had engaged in countless battles.
"If it's this kid... perhaps it will work," the trader contemplated, his mind made up. He had reached a decision based on his newfound admiration for Vanta's exceptional understanding of the game.
"Hey kid, how about this? Why don't we make a trade instead?" the trader proposed, capturing Vanta's attention.
"A trade? But I don't have a Tulk card to offer," Vanta replied, slightly puzzled.
"It's not a Tulk card, it's something even better," the trader assured him, a mischievous glimmer in his eyes.
Sensing the need for discretion, the trader carefully scanned their surroundings to ensure their conversation remained private. He then reached into his coat and produced a slim book adorned with intricate golden engravings. This book was the very source of power that Vanta had been seeking.
Handing the book to Vanta, the trader made an intriguing proposition. "I'm willing to trade this book with you, but in return, I'll ask for a favor."
Curiosity mingled with caution as Vanta pondered the offer. "What kind of favor do you want from me?" he cautiously inquired, unsure of what lay behind the trader's seemingly vicious smile.
"I want to be your sponsor for the Chalice Cup tournament. You will represent me in exchange for this book," the trader revealed with a sly grin on his face, his true intentions becoming apparent.
Vanta's instincts alerted him to the fact that this man had ulterior motives, yet he couldn't deny his desperate yearning for greater strength. Hesitant but intrigued, he inquired about the nature of the book the trader had offered, wary of potential risks or curses it might entail.
"It's a mana gathering method. This book contains a pathway to enhance your power. Are you interested?" the trader explained, attempting to convince Vanta of the book's worth.
After a moment's consideration, Vanta nodded, accepting the man's offer despite the lingering uncertainty and the unknown consequences that lay ahead. Oblivious to the full extent of what he had gotten himself into, Vanta made a fateful decision, unaware of the challenges and surprises that awaited him.