Three Lolis Make a Show

The Angel Legion's camp is located on the border of Hell, at the confluence of the Abyss. According to Gabriel, this was so that the God of Justice could launch simultaneous attacks on both demons and devils, preventing one from stabbing the other in the back while the other was attacking the other, and also allowing them to profit from the chaos of the demons' battle.

Ideals are beautiful, but reality is cruel.

After the Angel Legion entered the Lower Planes, they quickly advanced a considerable distance with the aid of powerful divine forces. Although the demons' sizable fortresses and armies were not something the expeditionary force could easily handle, the inherently chaotic demons were clearly not so difficult to deal with. In fact, no plan can be successfully implemented once the demons have begun, which gave the Angel Legion a considerable opportunity. The lawful angels used various means to surround, divide, and completely annihilate the demons. Their momentum was unstoppable, and they even once reached the castle of one of the lords of the Abyss.

But that's just the reality.

Although the demons' chaotic and ridiculous nature destined their battles to be perpetual chaos, this was, after all, Lower Planes, where nothing could be more numerous than demons and devils. Soon, the demons, sensing the divine aura of the Upper Planes, arrived from all directions, launching wave after wave of attacks on the Angel Legion. If Gabriel hadn't decisively ordered a retreat, the Angel Legion would likely have been utterly annihilated, just like the allied forces that had been lured deep into Li Lin's trap.

Currently, the "Fort of Glory," painstakingly fortified on the edge of the first level, is the Angel Legion's only stronghold. To ensure their defenses, the God of Justice even expended considerable effort to modify the rules of this area, making its environment more like Mount Celestia than Hell. Although the demons ignore the environmental changes, the devils have become much more cautious. They spend most of their time lurking outside the Glory Fort, waiting for the moment when the demons' foolish charge will take effect. Once the blood and filth from the demon corpses weaken the land of glory to the point where it can no longer support defense, the devils would certainly not mind taking advantage of the situation—but not now.

Those outside wanted to get in, and those inside wanted to get out. Although the angels had tried to attack the demons several times, they were more concerned about the safety of their current stronghold, so they patiently held back. After all, while the angels were persistent, they weren't fools. They knew very well that once they left this stronghold, they would hardly be able to get any assistance on their own.

That's why seeing a lone angel here is an extremely rare occurrence.

However, rare does not mean non-existent.

The blazing sun scorched the earth, casting enormous shadows on the blood-stained stones. Even the bronze walls and houses felt unbearably hot to the touch, but this was commonplace for the demons. What was not so commonplace for them was that an angel was walking openly and brazenly within the demons' fortress.

She appeared quite young, her pristine white robes completely shielding her from the evil aura of Hell. Her white wings shone with a dazzling brilliance under the crimson sun, almost blindingly so. This not only aroused the hostility of the succubi but also attracted the attention of many powerful demons and other adventurers. However, they cautiously remained at a distance, refraining from approaching to find any pretext to eliminate or capture this benevolent being.

The only reason these demons were not acting rationally instead of immediately eliminating their thorn in their side was that this angel was not acting alone. Although her divine aura was extremely powerful, and she was likely among the most powerful angels, what did it matter to the demons? They had killed many beings far more powerful than her, though that often meant paying a much heavier price. Using hundreds of thousands or even millions of demon soldiers to eliminate a single monster was not worthwhile, but as long as the cost and reward were proportional, what did it matter?

However, the demons still restrained their emotions, for the angel was not acting alone. Ahead of her, a mage was slowly advancing. He appeared ordinary, nothing out of the ordinary. Yet, the powerful Magic Power emanating from him caused almost all the demons to retreat. Moreover, on either side of this mage followed two girls who appeared to be about the same age. One wore a dress that, in the demons' eyes, was quite luxurious and valuable, as if she were attending a king's banquet. A pair of black, bat-like wings folded behind her, but no demon could recognize her race. The other looked listless, as if the power of the entire plane was pressing down on her, robbing her of her health and soul, threatening to cause this poor little creature to collapse at any moment, breathing her last breath. But judging from her blood-stained black robe, she was clearly a formidable opponent as well.

Although some who were eager to make a contribution quickly reported to the Lord of the First Layer of Hell, it seemed best not to cause trouble since the Lord hadn't appeared to interfere with the travelers. After all, this was the First Layer of Hell, and no demon would be foolish enough to seek their own death without orders—in fact, even when they did receive orders, they often didn't.

"I don't like it here, sir Arcane Mage."

Gabriel frowned. This was the first time she had ever walked in a place filled with so much evil and demons. Her angelic nature, which valued goodness, almost made her want to attack these evil and ugly beings. Only her reason and trust in Li Lin kept her from doing so. The dimensional travel robe that Li Lin had provided her also protected her from the harm this place could offer, allowing the archangel to conserve enough power.

"Then you can simply paint your wings black, and then you won't have to worry about such a boring and foolish thing anymore."

Angela, walking beside Li Lin, turned around and spoke with a smug, mocking smile.

"If there's no paint, then I can just kill a few demons on the spot. I believe their blood will achieve the same effect. Or why don't you simply find a demon and rub it against yourself?"

"..."

"... That's... useless... Anna... doesn't even have... black..."

Anna, walking on the other side, gently took Li Lin's arm and coughed softly as she answered.

"I was just trying to scare her! Why are you interrupting my fun!?"

It was clear that Angela was quite unhappy with Anna's interference.

"... Ahem... Anna... is a good girl... she doesn't lie..."

"That's right, Miss Anna. Trying to make someone suffer through lies is the devil's doing, and it's not the act of a decent person."

Gabriel tightened his cloak. Without even glancing at Angela, he spoke while staring at Li Lin's retreating figure.

Faced with these conversations around him, Li Lin wisely refrained from joining in. Since entering Hell, the relationship between the three had remained unchanged: Angela constantly made provocative statements against Gabriel, to which Gabriel responded with a measured counter-attack. As for Anna, for some unknown reason, she hovered between the two, showing no favoritism and only occasionally offering her opinions. Of course, neither side could turn her into a staunch ally, as Anna's most valued person was always Li Lin —that much was undeniable.

As for the others, whether it was Angela or Gabriel, they were no different in her eyes.

The unusual combination wasn't Li Lin's intention. He had originally planned to bring Suoxiate and the others here, but it was clear that most of the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys seemed to be avoiding Li Lin. Kalin, under the pretext of patrolling, wandered around the Ringwraith City without returning home. Although Yi Aier hadn't left her room, watching the towering pillars of light erupting every few minutes from the magical cannon, Li Lin understood that the little maid, in her delusional phase, had absolutely no chance of hearing him. Even Miu'erkasi refused— Beika remained silent as well. Obviously, the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys seemed confused about facing their master, and Nia and Suoxiate were still busy with their tasks and couldn't leave either.

However, Li Lin was also well aware that their unusual behavior was likely related to Nia and the others' bold actions during his trip to the Astral Plane. After all, while the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys and Li Lin had always had the closest relationship, such a drastic change had never occurred before. Nia's actions not only revealed her stance but also shocked the other Ring Spirit Envoy. They were forced to carefully consider their position and attitude. Just look at Yi Aier; Nia's previous behavior clearly had greatly stimulated the little maid. Li Lin was certain that her mind was replaying all sorts of unspeakable, even best-kept, fantasies...

So, left with no other choice, Li Lin had to seek Anna's help. After all, she had only recently returned to the Prime Material Plane from the Nine Levels of Hell and should be quite familiar with the situation there. Moreover, Anna's personality ensured that she wouldn't face any suppression or resistance in Hell, and more importantly... she wouldn't concern herself with trivial matters.

Clearly, while Anna is skilled enough to rival Angela in killing, her mind is no different from that of an immature child. She never finds the kind of "activities" that Angela and Li Lin engage in interesting, nor does she have any interest in romantic relationships between men and women. She doesn't even show the curiosity or influence that the Archangel does. For Anna, simply being able to stay by Li Lin's side is the greatest happiness.

Li Lin did not inform the Lord of the Nine Levels of Hell of his arrival, because he was unsure whether the King of the Nine Levels of Hell would act prematurely after learning that he was going to take a group of angels from Hell, and then apologize by extending his hand to indicate that he had learned of the news too late, leaving behind only corpses and ruins... Considering the characteristics of demons, the possibility of him doing so was quite high.

However, considering that he had only recently returned from the Astral Plane and was about to head to Hell again, Li Lin lamented that he was indeed destined to be a busybody.

Fortunately, Li Lin's dimensional teleportation transported them to a relatively safe place. After Gabriel confirmed their location, they headed towards Glory Fort, the bronze fortress located on this inevitable route. Considering the influence of the dimensional shifts and the constant Blood War, Li Lin ultimately decided to go inside and rest for a while. He didn't want to happen to witness a demon-demon fight while picnicking in the wilderness, only to be caught up in the chaos of millions of demons battling each other a few minutes later—a common sight in Hell.

Why can't we find a safer place?

Faced with Gabriel's somewhat uneasy question, Li Lin simply shrugged.

"That's why we're here, Miss Gabriel. At least here you don't have to worry about those devils rushing up to prove their worth or satisfy their desires. If we were walking in the devil's territory, we wouldn't be so lucky."

Since Li Lin had already answered in this way, Gabriel naturally didn't say anything more. She could only helplessly slump her shoulders and try to accept the fact that when faced with utter chaos and evil demons, angels and devils could occasionally stand on the same side, at least they were both guardians of order.

"Hello, powerful mage."

Just then, Li Lin's path was blocked by a group of adventurers. Seeing this, many demons also stopped and became loyal "spectators." They never minded watching any possible bloodshed, battles, and deaths, especially those that wouldn't happen to them.

What's the matter?

Li Lin noticed that the leader was also dressed as a mage, wielding a very beautiful and powerful staff that shimmered with magical light. Behind him followed a barbarian warrior, a human thief, and a priest in a black robe. They looked like a group of adventurers that could be found anywhere in Hell, trying to acquire some rare treasure or something else before returning to their own plane to enjoy the happiest life.

However, this does not mean they can block your way.

That's right.

Upon hearing Li Lin's question, the monk gave a reassuring smile and then spoke.

"I've noticed a very valuable person in your group. If you're willing, I'd like to sell her. Of course, price is not an issue."

Without needing to be asked, everyone knows who he's referring to.

"Oh? So, how much money are you willing to pay?"

Angela intervened and took over what the other person was saying.

The mage was visibly taken aback by Angela's sudden intervention, but when he saw the devilish wings behind Angela, he knew it was best not to provoke her in any way.

"I'm willing to offer a five- Star Blue Diamond."

He spoke quite sincerely, explaining that the mage had actually been observing this strange group for some time. As a mage, he naturally noticed something odd about them. The other three were by no means benevolent beings, yet the angel, supposedly a representative of the gods, was obediently with them. This meant that the angel was very likely their spoils of war. Of course, considering that capturing an angel alive and being able to openly walk through the streets without being noticed by demons was a sign of strength, the mage chose to trade rather than stab them in the back.

However, it's clear he's still not smart enough.

"This amount of money is enough to buy any country in the world."

Then, he couldn't wait to continue speaking.

Upon hearing the mage's words, Angela let out a silvery laugh. Her clear, sweet, and captivating voice echoed through the evil and filth-filled fortress, drawing all the more attention.

"It seems you're only worth a city."

Angela turned back triumphantly and began to provoke Gabriel again. This time, the archangel did not respond to her taunts. Instead, he raised his head and quietly watched the priest in black robes standing at the back of the group. Angela seemed unconcerned about Gabriel's response. She shrugged and then turned back to ask her question again.

"Then, how much do you think I'm worth?"

"This..."

Faced with Angela's question, the mage hesitated, unsure how to answer. Judging from Angela's behavior, she clearly belonged to the category of demons, and judging a demon here was definitely unwise. Fortunately, Li Lin relieved his embarrassment.

"They are my subordinates, and my companions, Master."

Li Lin didn't have a staff in his hand, but he still flexed his fingers.

"So I won't sell it. I'm sorry, please make way."

Li Lin's unwavering answer caused the mage's pupils to contract slightly. He subtly gestured to the group behind him before stepping back. Li Lin nodded amicably to him and then walked towards the path the mage had cleared for him.

"Go to hell!"

Just then, the mage raised his staff, and bolts of lightning condensed within the crystal staff in his hand, leaping and flying towards Li Lin. At the same time, the orc warrior swung his great axe, slashing at the mage's body from the side, while the priest in black robes raised his evil and tainted divine symbol, beginning to plead for divine assistance. Meanwhile, the thief who had been hiding behind the orc warrior had vanished, his whereabouts unknown.

They seemed to have excellent teamwork in combat, or rather, they were very adept at killing and robbing.

However, they did not achieve their goal.

Although the mage used advanced spellcasting to instantly Dispel Magic the opponent's defenses from the start, the leaping lightning didn't turn Li Lin into a charred corpse. It merely circled around Li Lin before returning the way it came, striking the mage himself heavily. The orc wielding the giant axe was even less fortunate. Angela, laughing shrilly, grabbed its head and slammed it to the ground, then forcefully ripped its head off its massive body. Anna appeared unchanged; she continued to cough violently, her small, weak body trembling uncontrollably. No one saw what she did, not even the mangled corpse not far behind her. The priest of the evil god also couldn't escape his fate. Before his god could answer the prayers of his faithful follower, a gleaming spear pierced his heart. Gabriel gritted her teeth, spinning the spear in her hand, letting the holy flames burn away the filth and evil before her, which calmed her heart, which had been pounding because of this evil plane.

"There are fools in every world, it's a real headache."

Li Lin didn't turn around, while the mage was speechless. A spell intended to protect against this state was activated, but instead of attacking his enemy as he had expected, it hadn't even been intended to be cast. Yet, the spell seemed to possess its own will, acting automatically and ignoring the mage's control, choosing its target automatically. Deadly energy raged within the mage's body, completely extinguishing his once-burning soul fire. Faced with this, the mage couldn't even think of a single solution—because the energy had originated within his own body.

Li Lin had no intention of turning back to collect the deceased's property, so after he left, the "onlookers," certain that the powerful mage wouldn't return, immediately swarmed forward, tearing at and looting valuable treasures and weapons from the corpses—they had to find the five -Star Blue Diamond first. As for the rest, of course, they wouldn't let them go either.

The Power of Manipulation is indeed powerful.

Only then did Li Lin truly grasp the terrifying power of the Magic God. In previous battles, he had never had the opportunity to fight a powerful mage. Although his battle with the God of Justice was intense, he couldn't utilize the effects of his Power of Manipulation. Now, for the first time, Li Lin had the chance to use it. He could easily seize control of his opponent's spells and even activate hidden spells within them. Li Lin believed that if used properly, he would have no rivals in the world of mages.

This power must be seized.

Li Lin walked into the tavern in front of him while silently pondering the situation.