Chapter 126: Zephyr's Tempest and Lisa's Frosty Victory

The excitement in the arena was palpable as Zephyr stepped up, the next contestant to select his opponent. With a calculating gaze, he confidently declared, "I challenge the one ranked 80th."

From the higher platform descended a young warrior named Callum, with an air of quiet confidence. His deep blue robe rippled in the gentle breeze, revealing a card tucked into his belt – the source of his power. Next to him was his card monster, the Celestial Wolf, an ethereal creature with a silvery-blue coat and eyes that seemed to hold the stars themselves.

The two fighters exchanged glances. "Zephyr," Callum greeted politely. "I've heard much about your prowess. I'm looking forward to testing my skills against yours."

Zephyr simply nodded, "May the best warrior win."

The battle began with a swift move from the Celestial Wolf, who lunged forward, its starry eyes focusing intently on its target. But Zephyr was prepared. Calling upon his Tempest Phoenix, a fiery bird with wings that roared like thunderstorms, he mounted a counterattack. The Phoenix, with its blazing feathers, clashed against the Wolf, creating a brilliant spectacle of flames against the backdrop of the night sky.

The Celestial Wolf, with its agility and cosmic energy, evaded many of the Phoenix's fiery attacks. But Zephyr, with his strategic mind, managed to corner the Wolf, and with a powerful tempestuous move, the Phoenix defeated Callum's monster.

The crowd erupted in applause, cheering for the stunning display of skill and strategy from both fighters. Zephyr, ever the humble warrior, helped Callum up, who graciously accepted the defeat. "You truly are as formidable as the rumors say," he commented.

No sooner had the dust settled from their match than Lisa stepped into the spotlight, challenging the one ranked 82nd. A tall and lean fighter named Elena took the challenge. By her side stood her card monster, the Golden Griffin – a majestic creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, its feathers shimmering in gold.

The two women locked eyes, acknowledging each other's strengths. "I've always wanted to face you, Lisa," Elena said, a hint of excitement in her voice.

Lisa smirked, "Let's give them a show."

As the battle commenced, the Golden Griffin took to the skies, using its aerial advantage. It dove down, aiming its talons at Lisa's Millenium Ice Dragon, a majestic creature with iridescent scales and crystalline wings, exuding an aura of ancient power.

The arena turned cold as Lisa's dragon unleashed icy blasts at the Griffin, trying to ground it. Elena, showing her tactical acumen, had the Griffin use its golden feathers as a shield, reflecting the icy attacks.

It seemed for a moment that Elena and her Golden Griffin would have the upper hand, but Lisa, drawing from her deep bond with her dragon, summoned an icy vortex. The Griffin, despite its best efforts, got caught in the whirlwind, its golden shine dimming under the force of the Millennium Ice Dragon's frosty breath.

The duel ended with Lisa emerging victorious, her Ice Dragon roaring triumphantly, its icy aura filling the arena. Elena, a gracious loser, smiled at Lisa. "Impressive as always," she complimented.

With the day's battles drawing to a close, the audience was left in awe, discussing the spectacular displays they had witnessed, eagerly anticipating the next round of challenges.