Chapter 36: The Luminous Quest to Demon City

The horizon, colored in hues of purples and reds, held a dark silhouette, the infamous Demon City. Known to all but ventured by few, this city was said to harbor the most fearsome of creatures. And now, it beckoned Li Yang.

Lysar's words echoed in Li Yang's mind, "The path to the Demon City is a treacherous one, lined with challenges that will test your very soul." The weight of his Moon Crescent pendant provided a subtle reassurance, the essence of light within promising protection from the shadows that lay ahead.

"The demons of that city," Lysar began, coughing subtly as if choosing his words carefully, "they disdain light, especially the kind your pendant emits. Paired with the golden stag card you possess..." He trailed off, an unsettling hesitation in his voice.

Li Yang smirked, "You sound unsure. Do you intend to send me into a lion's den without an escape plan?"

Lysar replied defensively, "I said it 'should' work. But remember, every creature there has lived and thrived in the presence of demons. They've seen countless challengers and know how to play their cards right."

Rolling his eyes, Li Yang chuckled, "I guess I should be flattered that you're concerned about my well-being."

Despite his playful banter, Li Yang was acutely aware of the risks. Still, there was no turning back. The allure of power, knowledge, and the chance to strengthen himself for the challenges that lay ahead drove him forward.

The journey started on a dusty path surrounded by dense woods on either side. Each tree seemed older than time, their twisted trunks and gnarled branches forming eerie patterns. Every so often, a gust of wind would cause the leaves to rustle, sounding almost like whispered secrets of ancient times.

As days turned into nights, the path presented its own set of challenges. Ghostly apparitions would appear, trying to mislead or deter him. But with every step, the Moon Crescent pendant would glow brighter, its luminescent aura warding off these specters.

One evening, as the crimson sky gave way to the starry night, a vast expanse lay ahead, filled with fog so thick it was palpable. This was the Marsh of Despair, rumored to be guarded by spirits of those who perished attempting to cross it. But Li Yang wasn't one to be deterred by tales. Summoning the golden stag from his card, he rode its back, its hooves barely touching the marshy ground, making the crossing seem almost ethereal.

Emerging from the Marsh of Despair, the colossal gates of the Demon City stood imposingly before him, their dark metalwork contrasting starkly against the pendant's radiant glow. From the shadows, two piercing eyes watched Li Yang, a deep growl resonating through the silence.

Li Yang steadied himself, ready to face whatever creature emerged from the shadows. But deep down, he couldn't shake off a nagging feeling. Was it just the creatures of the Demon City he had to worry about? Or were there deeper, more personal demons he'd have to confront?

Drawing a deep breath, Li Yang stepped forward, ready to face the unknown challenges of the Demon City. The adventure had only just begun.