Chapter 33: Soulbound and Starving

Every step Li Yang took in the vast expanse of Qi Xing was underpinned by a single, burning motivation: Lan Xi, his beloved wife. She was the anchor that held him steady, even as he navigated this alien world. He knew impatience wouldn't help; he had to become stronger, and only then could he stand a chance against the formidable Crescent Clan.

Lost in thoughts of Lan Xi and strategizing his next moves, Li Yang was jolted back to the present when Lysar's voice emanated from the crescent moon pendant, "I hope you weren't expecting me to treat you to a meal. I don't have any money here. You'll need to earn your keep."

Li Yang blinked in disbelief. "You bring me to this strange world, offer no sustenance, and now you tell me to fend for myself?" he grumbled internally. But before he could voice his complaints aloud, Lysar chimed in, "It's not like I'm withholding money on purpose. I genuinely don't have any."

Li Yang jumped, his eyes widening. "How did you hear my thoughts?" he exclaimed, aghast.

Lysar's voice held a hint of amusement. "The Yueya Jade Pendant you wear is now melded with your soul, and since I reside within it, your thoughts resonate clearly to me. It's like... eavesdropping on a radio channel."

Li Yang shuddered at the idea of his every thought being audible to Lysar, but there was no time to dwell on it. "Fine," he muttered, "let's focus on the more pressing matter at hand – food."

Lysar chuckled. "Alright, let's not get bogged down by the details. I'll take you hunting. Qi Xing has some unique creatures that will not only satisfy your hunger but will also help you hone your skills."

As the duo ventured deeper into the wild landscapes of Qi Xing, Li Yang couldn't help but marvel at the vibrant flora and fauna. Every rustle in the bushes heralded a new creature, each more wondrous than the last.

Guided by Lysar's insights, Li Yang approached a docile-looking creature grazing nearby. It looked like a cross between a deer and a peacock, with shimmering antlers and a plume of radiant feathers. Lysar instructed, "This is a Lucent Stag. Approach with caution, and remember the transformation skill I mentioned."

Taking a deep breath, Li Yang carefully approached the creature, reaching out to touch its shimmering fur. As he made contact, he visualized a card, and to his astonishment, the Lucent Stag transformed into a gleaming card, which floated gently into his outstretched hand.

Grinning with pride, Li Yang looked at the card, his stomach reminding him of his primary goal. Lysar's voice whispered words of guidance, teaching him how to summon the creature for food and how to ensure it would revert back to card form, unharmed, after serving its purpose.

As the sun set on Qi Xing, Li Yang, sated and satisfied, pondered on the day's lessons. With Lysar by his side and his determination unwavering, he felt a renewed surge of hope. He would master the mysteries of Qi Xing, become stronger, and, one day, reunite with his beloved Lan Xi.