"Whether it is or not, let's go over and take a look first." As Angel spoke, he reinforced another layer of Purification Field within the Moving Illusion.
Although Black Earl had voluntarily released his sense of smell and lost control of his emotions after catching that stench, he had done so to save the group time. As the leader, Angel felt he ought to do something to soothe his companion's emotions, hence his move to reinforce the Purification Field.
Still, the Moving Illusion already had a Purification Field. Adding another layer did not actually make much difference.
Yet the gesture did calm Black Earl down somewhat. Perhaps that was how it worked: whether you did it or not, the outcome might be the same, but if you did it, at least it showed you cared.
And that consideration was rewarded. Black Earl sent Angel a private transmission.
"I see Sanders' shadow in you, but I also see you yourself. That is a good thing, but if you want to grow into someone who can stand alone, you would do best to cast off imitation."
This "private chat" was Black Earl's repayment.
After hearing it, Angel thought for a moment and understood what Black Earl meant.
It was Angel's first time acting as leader, and he did not really know how much he should do. Having once followed Sanders around as his attendant, Angel had begun consciously and unconsciously imitating Sanders. Even when making decisions, he would think: If Mentor were here, what would he do?
Black Earl's eye was indeed sharp.
Angel had shown none of the awkwardness of a first-time leader, yet Black Earl had still seen through him. Nor did Black Earl mock him for it; instead, he offered a very sincere piece of advice:
Imitation was not