"Ah, it was all thanks to your excellent teaching, Darkeion," Zhang Fan said modestly, touching his nose. Truthfully, he hadn't mastered the technique completely; Darkeion had guided him through it. Regardless, Zhang Fan had successfully learned the move, and he felt confident in his ability to independently seal similar malevolent entities in the future.
"And this little one is safe and sound," he added, gently stroking the small land god resting in his arms. Since its rescue, the creature had been peacefully asleep, showing no signs of distress.
"Zhang Fan, may I take care of this child? After all, it is my companion," Yu Jikazhe's eyes lit up at the sight of the small land god in Zhang Fan's embrace.
Why would Yu Jikazhe refer to this child as her companion? Yu Jikazhe is no ordinary girl; her parents are land gods, making her a land god as well, endowed with unique abilities. The reason for her human form, however, is known only to Yu Jikazhe herself.
"Sure, Yu Jikazhe. I'd be more at ease knowing you're looking after it," Zhang Fan replied, handing the small land god to her. Since he couldn't keep the creature with him forever, leaving it with Yu Jikazhe seemed best.
"I'll take good care of it, I promise!" Yu Jikazhe beamed, delighted to have a new companion. But what truly warmed her heart was Zhang Fan's bravery, kindness, and gentle spirit throughout the battle. Already fond of him, her affection for Zhang Fan now soared, leaving her with a flushed face whenever she glanced his way.
"Now that everything has settled, let's report back to Princess Misiore and the others. They must be worried sick," Zhang Fan suggested, looking toward the Grana Floating Fortress. The sky had cleared, signaling the return of peace to Florinelde.
"I'll lead the way! Hurry up, everyone," Yu Jikazhe dashed toward the fortress, her cheeks still warm from her feelings for Zhang Fan.
"Wait for us, Yu Jikazhe!" With the mission accomplished and spirits high, Zhang Fan, grabbing He Luo by the hand, raced after Yu Jikazhe.
He Luo, caught by surprise, didn't resist; a complex expression crossed her face as she allowed Zhang Fan to lead her away, under Darkeion's knowing smile.
Princess Misiore's joy at their safe return was evident, her smile blooming like a flower. Both Leon Misiure and Aikrele sighed in relief, thankful for everyone's safety.
Thus, the war concluded, not with victory, but with the appearance of a monstrous beast prompting a ceasefire. Despite the absence of casualties or disappearances, Leon Misiure held a press conference to sincerely apologize to the citizens of both Biscode and Garette.
The public's understanding and support for Leon Misiure's heartfelt apology were overwhelming, with calls for a more joyous future for both nations. To fill the void left by the war, a spontaneous concert by Princess Misiore was organized, proving more popular than the battle itself.
"Zhang Fan," as preparations for the concert began, Legota suddenly approached him.
"What is it, Legota? Need something?" Zhang Fan turned to her.
"About the weapons you summoned, how should we deal with them?" Legota asked, referring to the military hardware Zhang Fan had called into action.
"Oh, those? Just leave them; they'll vanish on their own soon enough," he explained, noting that summoned items only lasted for twelve hours.
"Vanish? Really?" Legota panicked, having hoped to study the weapons further. Now, learning of their impending disappearance, she was visibly disappointed.
"They should last another five or six hours," Zhang Fan reassured her after checking the time. Since these weapons wouldn't attack without orders, they posed no threat if left alone.
"In that case, may I study them?" Legota's eyes shone with curiosity and hope, eager to explore the technology before it vanished.
"Of course, Legota. Feel free to examine them. But are you sure you can figure them out in such a short time?" Zhang Fan doubted but encouraged her interest.
"Thank you! You're the best, Zhang Fan!" Legota didn't answer his question, instead expressing her gratitude with a quick kiss on his cheek before running off to her research.
A kiss from a loli? Even if it was just the cheek, it was rather surprising. Watching Legota's retreating figure, Zhang Fan was momentarily stunned by the unexpected affection.
"Humph! Pervert hero!" Just then, a disapproving voice called out, and Zhang Fan turned to find the Dog Mother's Guard staring him down with unmistakable irritation.