Chapter 124: A Bold Move

Dawn broke, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. The grand challenge was upon them, and the entire academy had gathered, the atmosphere filled with electric anticipation. High above, the student ranked 100th sat poised on a grand pedestal, watching the unfolding events below. The ten contenders, victors from previous trials, stood confidently, eagerly awaiting their turn.

Fred, the mentor known for his sharp insights and stern demeanor, stepped onto the central stage, clearing his throat. "Contestants," he boomed, "are you ready?"

In perfect synchrony, the ten echoed back, "We are!"

Fred's gaze fixed on Li Yang, the prodigious talent who had astonished many. "Li Yang," he intoned, "as the top qualifier, you have the privilege to choose your first opponent. Choose wisely from ranks 51 to 100."

Without batting an eyelid, Li Yang responded, "I challenge rank 51!"

The crowd gasped. Whispers spread like wildfire, "Such audacity! If he fails, he won't even make it to the top 100. Should have started with a lower rank. He's too young, too rash!"

Fred raised an eyebrow, impressed yet concerned. "Li Yang, are you absolutely certain about this?"

With firm resolve, Li Yang declared, "I am."

From the opposite end of the arena, a tall, muscular student stepped forward. His name was Darius, a formidable opponent known for his strength and strategy. With him was his card monster, Titan, a colossal creature with shimmering scales and wings that spread like a shadow over the battlefield.

The stage was set. Li Yang, with his trusty Ares, versus Darius and his fearsome Titan. The two stood facing each other, their card monsters looming behind them, their intentions clear in their eyes.

As the gong sounded, Darius made the first move. Titan unleashed a torrent of flames, trying to engulf Ares. But Ares, agile and swift, evaded with ease, countering with bolts of lightning. The arena echoed with the clash of elements, fire against thunder, strength against speed.

Darius, realizing brute force wasn't enough, commanded Titan to summon an earthen shield, blocking Ares' wind and thunder attacks. But Ares, clever and adaptable, found gaps in the shield, using his wind element to create cyclones that destabilized Titan.

The duel was intense, each contender pushing the other to their limits. But then, in a moment of sheer brilliance, Li Yang played his masterstroke. Commanding Ares to combine his wind and thunder elements, a swirling vortex of electricity formed, striking Titan with such force that it knocked the colossal monster off its feet.

The aftermath was silent, save for the heavy breathing of the two young warriors. Titan lay defeated, while Ares, though worn out, stood tall, having only used his basic wind and thunder abilities.

As the dust settled, a mix of astonishment and admiration filled the crowd. Darius, graceful in defeat, nodded at Li Yang, acknowledging his prowess. The prodigy had made his mark, and the academy would never be the same again.