Chapter 132: The Mechanical Bear Showdown

The duels raged on with an intensity that could set the very atmosphere ablaze. The energy was palpable, with each fighter trying to prove their worth. Maelon, in particular, harbored a burning desire to outshine Li Yang. Determinedly, he challenged the 30th ranked student, only to suffer a setback. He failed in his attempt, securing his place at the 35th rank. The whirlwind of matches continued, but none dared to challenge the formidable Li Yang.

Then, as the dust settled and the din of battle lulled momentarily, it was Li Yang's turn. Standing at the 11th rank, he was at the cusp of greatness, a step away from challenging the top 10. Mentor Fred stepped forward, casting a heavy gaze over the arena.

"The next phase," he began, "involves our top 10 duelists and the new challenger, Li Yang. The 11th ranked can only challenge the 10th, and if victorious, you will earn the right to participate in the Championship Duels."

Fred continued, "The Championship Duels are a test of strategy, endurance, and raw power. It's a series of 1-on-1 duels. Nine battles in total, victory in all will place you first, defeat in all will relegate you to the last spot. Do you understand?"

A hushed silence ensued.

Then, the 10th ranked student stepped forward. A robust figure with an air of sophistication, he revealed his card monster – a Mechanical Bear. Towering, forged from the finest steel, this bear was an anomaly. Not only did it possess the brute strength typical of a bear, but its mechanical nature also endowed it with incredible speed. Moreover, it commanded the dual elements of wind and ice, making it a force to be reckoned with.

The duel commenced with the Mechanical Bear charging forward, causing tremors with each heavy step. Its metallic claws gleamed, and its eyes glowed a deep blue, the same hue as its icy breath. With a roar, it unleashed a gust of icy wind, aiming to freeze Ares in place.

But Li Yang was ready. Directing Ares, they countered the icy winds with a surge of fiery flames, neutralizing the immediate threat. However, the Mechanical Bear was relentless. It swiftly transitioned between using wind gusts to throw Ares off balance and launching sharp icicles.

Li Yang realized that to win, they had to exploit the bear's mechanical nature. As the bear lunged again, Ares conjured a protective barrier of wind, deflecting the bear's attacks. The Mechanical Bear, trying to overpower the barrier, became increasingly aggressive.

Seizing this opportunity, Li Yang commanded Ares to use his fusion attribute attack. Combining the elements of fire and lightning, Ares struck the Mechanical Bear's core, sending surges of electricity through its system. The once-dominant bear staggered, its circuits overloaded and systems malfunctioning.

With one final, powerful thrust, Ares sent the bear crashing to the ground, smoke emanating from its charred frame.

The arena erupted in cheers. Li Yang, once again, had proven his strategic prowess, defeating an opponent many deemed unbeatable. But this was just the beginning of his journey among the elite.