Chapter 68: The Return of the Champion

The colossal arena, echoing the cheers and gasps from previous battles, now stood silent in anticipation. The final three contenders: Feng Xuan, Lisa, and Li Yang, who had secured a place by default, occupied the center stage. They had guaranteed their spots in the prestigious Central City Academy, but who would claim the title of the ultimate champion was yet to be determined.

As the three exchanged glances, acknowledging each other's strengths and silently sizing up their competition, a shadow loomed over the arena. The audience turned their gazes upwards, squinting against the brightness of the midday sun. And there, on the rooftop, stood a figure that sent a ripple of whispers through the crowd.

"It's him!"

"The swordsman!"

"Zephyr!"

Indeed, it was none other than Zephyr, the champion from five years ago, a legend in his own right. His reputation as an unparalleled swordsman was known to all. With long, flowing hair that matched the color of the midday sky and a gaze as sharp as his blade, Zephyr looked down upon the arena with an inscrutable expression.

The city lord of Infinite City had personally invited Zephyr back from the Central City Academy. This was no ordinary invitation – Zephyr was to be the final challenge for this year's champion, a surprise twist in the tournament.

Li Yang clenched his fists, his determined eyes fixed on Zephyr. Having come so far, he wasn't about to be intimidated. Beside him, Lisa, the mystery behind the mask, remained as unreadable as ever. Her cold demeanor contrasted sharply with the fire in Feng Xuan's eyes, who seemed eager, almost itching for a chance to measure himself against the legendary swordsman.

The arena's giant screens lit up, displaying a message from the city lord. "Contestants, citizens of Infinite City, welcome Zephyr, our former champion. He stands as the ultimate challenge, a benchmark for our new champions. The one who defeats Zephyr will not only be this year's champion but will also be recognized as one of the greatest in Infinite City's history."

The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on the three contenders. While entrance into the Central City Academy was a significant achievement, the opportunity to duel with, and potentially defeat, a legend like Zephyr was a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

As the day's shadows lengthened, signaling the approach of the evening, the anticipation in the air was palpable. It was not just about the title anymore. It was about legacy, honor, and the chance to be etched in the annals of Infinite City's history.

Zephyr finally spoke, his voice echoing throughout the arena, "Prepare yourselves. I await the one worthy of challenging me." With that, he disappeared, leaving the three contenders and the entire city in anxious wait for the final showdown.