Chapter 37: Luminescence and Ingenuity at Demon City's Gates

The towering gates of Demon City loomed menacingly in the distance, almost swallowing the horizon with its massive structure. From behind the black iron bars, a deep and haunting growl echoed, sending shivers down Li Yang's spine. The source of the growl revealed itself - a creature with ebony scales, fiery eyes, and talons sharper than the finest blade.

While the beast looked ready to strike, Li Yang remained still, grounding himself in the memories of his training and the guidance of Lysar. He recalled the power of his Moon Crescent pendant and the luminosity it contained, as well as the strength of the golden stag he could summon.

With a deep breath, Li Yang whispered an incantation, summoning the golden stag from his card. The stag appeared beside him, its majestic golden aura contrasting the grim atmosphere of the Demon City's entrance. Sensing the imminent threat, the stag lowered its antlers, ready to charge.

However, instead of using brute force, Li Yang opted for a tactical approach. He held out his pendant, letting its radiant light pierce the darkness. The creature, momentarily blinded by the sudden burst of brilliance, recoiled in surprise. Seizing this opportunity, Li Yang whispered another command, and the stag launched a flurry of luminous projectiles from its antlers, aiming straight at the disoriented creature.

As the golden projectiles struck, the beast let out a cry of pain and confusion. The luminescent energy from the Moon Crescent pendant, combined with the power of the golden stag, seemed to be its bane. Yet, the creature wasn't defeated. Gathering its strength, it lunged at Li Yang with tremendous speed.

Drawing upon his wit and agility, Li Yang quickly sidestepped the attack, allowing the creature to crash into a nearby boulder. Before it could regain its bearings, he channeled the pendant's energy into his palm and pressed it against the creature. A brilliant light emanated, and in a matter of seconds, the beast was transformed into a card, hovering in mid-air before gently landing in Li Yang's outstretched hand.

A moment of silence followed, the only sound being the gentle rustling of the wind and Li Yang's steadied breathing. The gates of Demon City, which were once guarded by the menacing creature, now lay unobstructed before him.

As he approached the entrance, a soft voice echoed in his mind, *"Impressive, Li Yang. Your intelligence and the power of the pendant have granted you access. But remember, deeper challenges await within the city's walls."* It was Lysar, communicating through the bond they shared.

Acknowledging the warning, Li Yang gripped the newly acquired card, sensing the energy it contained. With renewed determination, he stepped through the gates, ready to confront the trials that lay ahead in the heart of Demon City.