Chapter 76: The Duel of Champions

The sun stood high over Infinite City, casting its golden rays upon the grand arena. The atmosphere was electric, with anticipation hanging thick in the air. People from all walks of life had gathered, their eyes fixed on the central stage, where the former champion, Zephyr, would face the reigning champion, Li Yang.

The two stood opposite each other, eyes locked in a fierce gaze, each sizing up his opponent. The crowd murmured in excitement, some rooting for Li Yang, while others whispered in awe about Zephyr's unmatched prowess.

As the final preparations were made, Zephyr, with an arrogant tilt to his chin, said, "I'd advise you to use that Metallic Sphere of yours right from the start. Without it, you won't stand a chance against me."

Li Yang, unshaken by the taunt, replied, "Every battle is different, Zephyr. Let's see who emerges victorious today."

Without wasting another moment, Zephyr summoned his "Tempest Phoenix", the magnificent creature rising from his card and taking shape in the arena. Its blazing body illuminated the area, and its vast wings made of fierce winds gave off a deafening roar. The crowd gasped in awe. The Fire and Air attributes of the "Tempest Phoenix" were legendary, and seeing it again after all these years brought back memories of its unparalleled dominance.

Not to be outdone, Li Yang called forth his trusted "Lion-Eagle", the creature roaring and screeching simultaneously, showcasing its Earth and Wind attributes. Knowing full well the power and agility of the "Tempest Phoenix", Li Yang instantly played his Metallic Sphere card, the sphere circling the "Lion-Eagle" and hardening its exterior. The fusion created a shimmering armor, enhancing the "Lion-Eagle's" defensive capabilities.

The battle began with a ferocious start. The "Tempest Phoenix", with its fire attributes, launched a blazing assault, aiming to melt the metallic shield of the "Lion-Eagle". However, the fortified defenses held firm, the metal reflecting the intense heat and protecting the "Lion-Eagle" from direct harm.

But Zephyr was not one to be underestimated. As the two monsters locked in combat, Zephyr surprised everyone by drawing a gleaming sword from his side and lunging at Li Yang. The unexpected maneuver caught Li Yang off guard. While his "Lion-Eagle" was engaged with the "Tempest Phoenix", he had to dodge Zephyr's direct attacks.

The crowd gasped in shock. It was rare for a duelist to engage physically in a card duel, but Zephyr, always unpredictable, was proving once again why he was a legend in the arena.

Li Yang, although taken aback, quickly regained his composure. He ducked and dodged, narrowly avoiding Zephyr's sword strikes, all the while directing the "Lion-Eagle" in its fierce duel with the "Tempest Phoenix". The air was thick with tension, each second feeling like an eternity.

The "Lion-Eagle", taking advantage of its wind attributes, whipped up a powerful gust, aiming to throw the "Tempest Phoenix" off balance. The fiery bird screeched in anger, its flames growing even hotter, retaliating with a tornado of fire.

The battle raged on, neither side willing to give an inch. With Zephyr's direct physical attacks and the relentless onslaught of the two mighty card monsters, it was anyone's guess who would emerge as the victor.

The entire arena held its breath, waiting for the next move in this unparalleled showdown between two of the greatest champions Infinite City had ever seen.