As Li Yang continued walking with Royce, his mind was working in overdrive. Though Royce suggested visiting his house, Li Yang's instincts warned him of a possible trap. Still, he played along, believing that the advantage of surprise lay with him.
Upon arrival at Royce's residence, Li Yang's worst suspicions were confirmed. Out of the shadows, multiple demons appeared, cornering him. He shot a glance at Royce, feeling a sting of betrayal. But Royce's eyes gleamed with mischief.
"Did you really think I wouldn't realize that you're impersonating Jay, the human?" Royce gloated. "With you as my catch, I can now curry favor with the demon lord."
Li Yang, feigning surprise, retorted, "You care nothing for your friend Jay, then?"
Royce sneered, his ambitions apparent. "Jay means nothing to me. All that matters is my rise to power."
Before Li Yang could react, he was swiftly restrained by the demons and escorted to the imposing castle that loomed overhead. The demon lord, seated on an ornate throne that radiated power and dominance, acknowledged Royce's contribution. "Excellent work. From today onwards, you are a member of my elite guard," he declared.
Royce, clearly elated by this sudden rise in stature, bowed deeply, "Thank you, my lord."
The demon lord's gaze then shifted to Li Yang, his eyes narrowing. "Throw him into the dungeon. We'll begin the sacrificial ceremony tomorrow."
Locked away in the dimly lit cell, Li Yang found himself face to face with Lyria. "Why are you here?" she asked, her voice a mixture of relief and concern.
"Do I look like I'm here for a holiday?" Li Yang responded, a hint of sarcasm evident in his voice.
Lyria rolled her eyes, "I thought you were more...capable."
Li Yang, concerned, asked, "Where's your twin, Lysander?"
Lyria sighed, "I don't know. We got separated upon entering this realm. A demon ambushed me, and now, here I am."
Li Yang, trying to devise a plan, asked, "Do you still have the escape card? The one to transport back to our realm?"
She shook her head, "It doesn't work here. We need to collect 100 Adamantine to activate it."
Li Yang smirked internally. He had nearly 200 Adamantine. However, he feigned despair, "I haven't collected a single one."
As dawn broke, the duo was forcibly dragged to a vast underground chamber. At its center stood a massive magical circle, pulsating with raw energy.
"That's it," Lysar's voice echoed in Li Yang's head. "Your destiny awaits."
Li Yang whispered back, "What should I do?"
Lysar's guidance was clear, "Once you're inside, summon Ares and produce the obsidian box. The circle will resonate with its energy."
But Li Yang was hesitant, "Won't I be sacrificed?"
Lysar's voice was reassuring, "Trust in Ares and the power of the obsidian box. Together, they will harness the circle's energy and grant Ares the Dark God attribute."
Determined and resolute, Li Yang readied himself for what lay ahead.