After a day and a night, the area around the shattered Hell Gate finally returned to calm. The Space Rift gradually closed, and the cracks in the earth were restored to their original state by mysterious energy. Yet the battlefield still carried a thick stench of blood and sulfur, as though it were whispering of the brutal battle that had taken place there.
With Ang and Lorn the Mage working together, the remaining Three-headed Hellhounds were also slain. The last Three-headed Hellhound was struck in the head by Ang's magic crystal cannon, then the Earth Elemental Giant summoned by Lorn smashed it completely apart with a single punch. When the massive magical beast fell, Ang was nearly soaked through with sweat, and his magic crystal cannon was giving off waves of heat from its frequent use.
When Ang and Lorn returned to camp, their figures immediately drew the attention of every soldier. Enthusiastic cheers erupted from the crowd as the soldiers stopped what they were doing and waved at them.
"Lord Ange, well done!" "Ang, you're truly our hero!"
"Lord Lorn, your Earth Elemental Giant was incredible!"
Although a few soldiers expressed their heartfelt respect for Lorn the Mage, most of their attention remained fixed on Ang. They found it easier to relate to him. After all, Ang fought more like an ordinary warrior, while the Earth Elemental Giant summoned by Lorn the Mage, though awe-inspiring, carried an untouchable air of mystery.
Watching this, Lorn shook his head and said with a smile, "Looks like you're very popular among the soldiers."
Ang caught his breath and replied with a smile, "My lord, that's because I'm a warrior just like them. But you're a Grand Archmage—mysterious and powerful. Naturally, they respect you from a distance."
Lorn raised an eyebrow and chuckled