Chapter 78: A Draw Under the Setting Sun

The Inifite City Duel arena lay in a hush, resonating with the energy of an intense battle that had just concluded. The remnants of the duel were visible: Tempest Phoenix and Lion-Eagle, once formidable and vivid, now slowly faded into the ether, leaving behind an exhausted Zephyr and Li Yang. The dissolution of their respective beasts was a silent testament to the draining power of their clash, indicating that neither of them had the energy left to summon any more card monsters.

Li Yang's attire bore the scars of the duel. The sharp slashes from Zephyr's blade had left their mark, turning his once pristine clothing into tattered remnants. Thankfully, none of the slashes had managed to pierce his skin, speaking volumes about his nimble reflexes and impeccable defense. But the condition of his clothes also presented Li Yang with an unintended opportunity.

With a swift motion, Li Yang tore off his tattered upper garment, revealing a sculpted physique underneath. Years of rigorous training on Earth, had carved his muscles into a masterpiece of human anatomy. As the setting sun's rays caressed him, each sinew and contour shone brilliantly, reflecting the fiery orb's golden hues. It wasn't just a display of physical prowess, but a statement: a statement of resilience, endurance, and the indomitable spirit of a warrior.

The spectacle wasn't lost on the audience or on Zephyr. The latter, standing opposite Li Yang, was himself a monument to martial artistry, albeit wearing his battle-worn fatigue more covertly. The mutual recognition was almost palpable. Words weren't necessary as both warriors nodded in agreement, signaling their acceptance of a draw.

The Infinite City Lord, overseeing the duel, stepped forward. His powerful voice, accustomed to declaring winners and losers, now had the unique task of announcing a tie. "The duel between Zephyr and Li Yang has reached its conclusion, and by mutual agreement, it's a draw!" The echo of his words was met with a unanimous roar of approval from the spectators. A draw between two such exceptional fighters was as thrilling as any victory.

As the applause died down and the dust settled, Zephyr approached Li Yang, extending a hand in admiration. "You're incredible, Li Yang," Zephyr commended. "Had I faced you five years ago, I would've surely lost." The respect in his voice was evident. 

Li Yang smiled, grasping Zephyr's hand firmly, "And had I not had the training from my past, this might have been a very different outcome."

As the day's excitement ebbed, Zephyr made a proposal. "Rest up for a few days. When you're ready, I'll take you to the Central City Academy to report. There's much you need to learn, and much we can learn from each other."

The promise of what lay ahead was intriguing. But for now, the city awaited to celebrate two of its greatest fighters, and Li Yang looked forward to the forthcoming rewards and the new chapter at the academy. The sunset on this day marked not just the end of a duel but the beginning of newfound camaraderie and mutual respect.