Chapter 161: The Grand Convergence

The atmosphere was thick with tension as the Demon Lord started chanting incantations. The mystical circle, beautifully crafted with ancient runes, began to shimmer more intensely with each passing moment. The resplendent light it emitted was almost blinding, a stark contrast to the dark intent behind its activation.

"Our era of glory beckons! Cast the humans into the circle, and our dominion over all realms will be solidified!" declared the Demon Lord, his voice echoing throughout the chamber.

Royce, with a sinister grin, took it upon himself to shove both Lyria and Li Yang towards the heart of the circle. As they were forced closer, Lyria's voice trembled with emotion, "Dear heavens, I have failed my family, and my twin brother. There are so many things left undone, unsaid. I've yet to experience love, marriage, or even the joy of motherhood!"

Li Yang, barely able to suppress his amusement at her unexpected outburst, whispered, "Stay calm. Just follow my lead, and you might still get your chance at love." The blush that crept up on Lyria's face was unmistakable, making her realize the weight of her candid confession.

Before they could be fully consumed by the mystical circle, Li Yang summoned Ares. He then produced the obsidian box he'd obtained from Infinite City. To Lyria's surprise, she noticed that Li Yang seemed unaffected by the circle's dark energy. "You can still summon creatures? Weren't you poisoned like the rest of us?" she exclaimed.

Li Yang, with a sly grin, responded, "I am immune to such trivialities." He then turned his focus back to the task at hand, paying no further heed to Lyria's queries.

As the box detected the arcane energies of the circle, it gradually opened, releasing a pulsating energy orb. The dark power of the circle began fusing with the orb, intensifying its luminescence. Lysar's voice echoed in Li Yang's head, urging him to act, "Now! Have Ares absorb the combined energy!"

Following the directive, Li Yang commanded Ares to consume the glowing entity. The Demon Lord, sensing the deviation from his plan, shouted at his minions, "Seize them! Stop this at once!"

However, the mystical circle had established a protective barrier, preventing any external forces from intervening. This temporary sanctuary gave Li Yang a momentary sigh of relief. Channeling his spiritual energy, he assisted Ares in integrating the newfound power.

The stakes were high, and the destiny of realms hung in the balance. Every second inside the circle brought them closer to an unknown fate.