Chapter 52: The Underplayed Power

The first test was drawing to its anticipated climax. The crowd had witnessed power, talent, and strategy, every participant putting forth their best, and now it was time for number 9998. As the announcer's voice echoed, "Contestant 9998, please take the stage," Li Yang, with the grace of a panther, leapt onto the platform. The energy of the crowd, the hopes of victory, and the weight of his past all rested heavily on his shoulders.

Stretching his muscles, feeling the very essence of the arena beneath his feet, Li Yang took a deep breath. "Come forth!" he exclaimed, raising his right hand and chanting an incantation. With a thunderous roar, from the ground emerged the Dark Earth Lion-Eagle. Its fierce gaze swept over the arena, sending shivers down the spines of many.

Whispers immediately spread like wildfire. Several participants recognized the majestic creature, drawing connections to the mythical beast said to guard the gates of the Demon City. Rumors of the city's recent destruction floated around, leading many to wonder: was Li Yang the force behind its fall?

As these suspicions and stories swirled, Li Yang was intently focused on the trial at hand. With a sharp command, he ordered the Lion-Eagle to unleash its 'Flying Claw Attack' on the pillar. As the beast's talons struck the target, the column began its transformation, slowly shifting colors until it settled on a pale shade of blue, indicating a pass, but just barely.

Murmurs spread through the spectators. "With such a powerful beast, that's all the damage he could inflict?" Many were perplexed. Lady Elara Rosde, from the esteemed Rosde family, glanced momentarily at Li Yang, a flicker of intrigue in her eyes, before indifferently turning away. Representatives of the other major families too paid him no heed. Their collective disinterest might've seemed like a dismissal to an outsider, but to Li Yang, it was all part of his strategy.

In a world where power could be both an asset and a curse, Li Yang had chosen subtlety. By instructing the Lion-Eagle to exert only a third of its power, he ensured his performance would fly under the radar. From his time observing the trials, he had deduced just the right amount of force needed to pass, avoiding unnecessary attention. In a game where prominence could make one a target, Li Yang's play was to remain an enigma.

As the dust settled and the trial concluded, Li Yang left the stage, confident in his choices. The real battles were yet to come, and he had no intention of revealing his cards too early. The journey ahead was long, and strategy would be just as crucial as strength.