Upon hearing Mo Han's request, the Sacred Dragon Patriarch suddenly sighed and said, "It's just that the seals on these Sacred Swords are ancient ones. Unsealing them will certainly be quite arduous. For me, it’s manageable, but it’s not so easy for the Elders. If I suddenly ask the Elders to expend a great deal of energy to break the seals on the Sacred Swords for no discernible reason, wouldn't that seem inappropriate? Only someone who has shown immense favor to our Dragon Clan might possibly trouble the Elders to take action. I believe that on this continent, besides our Dragon Clan, no one else can break these seals. It's just that I truly find it difficult to bring myself to ask the Elders; otherwise..."

Mo Han understood what the Sacred Dragon Patriarch meant even before he finished speaking. The Patriarch had made the implications so clear that even a fool would grasp it, let alone Mo Han. Mo Han knew the Patriarch was saying this to bait him into volunteering, to actively accept this task. Though he recognized it as the Patriarch's ploy, cursing the old schemer for being truly cunning—indeed, the older the ginger, the hotter it is—Mo Han's heart couldn't help but yearn for the chance. If he could truly unlock the power of the Light Sacred Sword, it would undoubtedly benefit him immensely, instantly boosting his cultivation significantly, giving him the means to protect himself even when encountering danger.

Thinking this, Mo Han quickly plastered a smile on his face.

He spoke with a smile, "Actually, I was about to discuss this matter with Your Excellency, the Patriarch. Since this concerns the Sacred Treasure of the Sacred Dragon Clan, the 'Seven Star Dragon Pearl,' and Your Excellency places such trust in me, Mo Han will certainly do my utmost to try. I hope not to fail this important mission."

Hearing Mo Han's reply, the Sacred Dragon Patriarch feigned hesitation and spoke, "But I heard the Duke mention earlier that the matter is too dangerous, fearing that you might not be a match for that Blight. How could I bring myself to let the Duke venture into such peril? If anything were to happen to the Duke, I would feel terribly uneasy."

Mo Han heard this.

He immediately felt an urge to punch someone. The Sacred Dragon Patriarch had clearly pinpointed his weakness and was deliberately acting this way to provoke him. If he hadn't known he couldn't possibly defeat this sly old fox, Mo Han would have already lashed out without a second thought. But who could he blame when his strength was inferior? Mo Han clenched his teeth in frustration, yet he was utterly helpless.

This old fellow had clearly cornered him, and Mo Han had to admit that he was indeed cornered.

Mo Han thought to himself with hidden exasperation. With this realization, Mo Han could only muster an appearance of righteous indignation, beating his chest as he declared, "Although Blight is formidable, since he has caused such immense trouble, I cannot simply stand by. As the saying goes, when the continent is in peril, every common man has a responsibility! Regarding the safety of the continent, how can I possibly retreat and allow the people of this land to continue suffering under Blight's persecution? Furthermore, the affairs of your Sacred Dragon Clan are my affairs, Mo Han's affairs! Patriarch, rest assured, I will definitely complete your mission; please do not worry..."

Upon hearing Mo Han's words, the Sacred Dragon Patriarch felt goosebumps rise all over his body. This kid could really spin a yarn. This concerned the safety of the continent? And the Sacred Dragon Clan's business was his business? This child spoke without even blushing! To act so entitled—he was truly a one-of-a-kind figure, past or present. The Patriarch shook his hand helplessly, cutting off Mo Han's burgeoning long-winded speech, and said with a smile, "Enough, enough. Old man believes in the Duke's resolve. Since the Duke is so considerate of the humans on the continent, I won't say any more. A little hardship is acceptable; we can’t just do nothing. Although it will be a bit taxing, first hand over the Light Sacred Sword to me. I will find a few Elders to devise a way to help you break the seal on the sword. It might take a few days."

Hearing the Sacred Dragon Patriarch agree to his request, Mo Han finally breathed a sigh of relief. This old fox had clearly taken advantage of him while pretending to be troubled. Damn it, he had never suffered such a loss in his life! He must find an opportunity to get it back with interest later, so this fellow would know the consequences of taking advantage of him.

However, Mo Han was quick to act. He swiftly retrieved the Light Sacred Sword from his spatial ring and handed it to the Sacred Dragon Patriarch, speaking with an affected tone of gratitude, "In that case, I must trouble Your Excellency, the Patriarch. Mo Han is deeply obliged."

After saying this, even Mo Han felt his words sounded overly disingenuous. But since the Sacred Dragon Patriarch didn't seem to mind, Mo Han cared even less.

Just then, the Sacred Dragon Patriarch smiled toward the outside of the pavilion and called out, "Since you've snuck over, come in. Always fooling around—wait until next time I confiscate your Invisibility Pearl, see if I don't!"

Hearing the Patriarch’s words, Mo Han also sensed a faint, almost negligible magical fluctuation in the air. If he hadn't been deliberately trying to sense it, he truly wouldn't have detected it. Moreover, Mo Han’s mind had been focused on the Light Sacred Sword just now, making him even less likely to notice. It seemed the Invisibility Pearl was indeed remarkable. Simultaneously, behind Mo Han and the others, the perfect face of Princess Rou Xue of the Sacred Dragon Clan materialized. Rou Xue hurried to the Sacred Dragon Patriarch, pouting, "Father, when did you know? It's no fun; you discover it every time."

The Patriarch affectionately patted his daughter's head and said, "You, still so fond of playing games. Aren't you afraid the Duke will laugh at you?"

Hearing this, Rou Xue looked at Mo Han with an amused expression and laughed, "Heh heh, it doesn't matter. If I hadn't come over early, how would I have witnessed that scene just now?"

Mo Han heard this and inwardly groaned, wondering if this girl had overheard his entire conversation with the Patriarch? That would truly be humiliating. Thinking this, Mo Han quickly acted as if nothing was amiss and asked, "When did Princess Rou Xue arrive? That Invisibility Pearl is truly a fine item. To conceal its magical fluctuations so deeply, it must be an artifact of divine grade?"

Unexpectedly, Rou Xue completely ignored Mo Han's attempt to change the subject. She gazed meaningfully at Mo Han and said with a smile, "I arrived quite a while ago and happened to hear Duke Mo Han's rousing, passionate speech! I never realized the Duke possessed such a fiery, zealous heart. Rou Xue is truly ashamed in comparison."

Mo Han heard this and felt a mixture of amusement and frustration; this girl was clearly here to mock him. However, Mo Han’s expression remained unchanged as he replied, "Heh heh, Princess, you flatter me. Ever since I was small, my Master taught me to love the Dragon Ascent Continent. So when I see such a situation, how could I possibly stand idly by? No matter how much Princess praises me, I'll be embarrassed."

Hearing Mo Han’s words.

Princess Rou Xue shook her head repeatedly. What was this fellow's skin made of? Even a Forbidden Spell probably couldn't breach his skin! It was too outrageous. Yet, their protagonist Mo Han maintained a righteous and stern expression. Even the Sacred Dragon Patriarch felt an impulse to administer a beating—a feeling he hadn't experienced in a long time. But in the end, the Patriarch suppressed his urge and said to Rou Xue, "Xue'er, since the Duke is so busy, we shouldn't delay him further. I still need to resolve the Light Sacred Sword issue for the Duke. You escort the Duke out, alright?"

Hearing the Sacred Dragon Patriarch’s words, Rou Xue could only nod in agreement. Mo Han was eager to leave, and the Patriarch’s suggestion perfectly aligned with his wishes. He quickly bowed in farewell and, accompanied by Rou Xue, headed towards the valley entrance.

As soon as they stepped out of the pavilion.

Rou Xue looked at Mo Han and teased, "I never knew the Duke was such a passionate youth. Rou Xue truly underestimated you; that was quite rude of me."

Mo Han easily discerned the meaning behind Rou Xue’s words. His expression unwavering, he replied, "Heh heh, I'm not very familiar with the Princess yet. Once we get better acquainted, and our distance closes a bit more, you’ll discover I have more merits than just this. How about we find an opportunity another day, and I'll let you get to know me more deeply?"

The moment Mo Han finished speaking, Rou Xue let out a cold snort and cursed, "You're asking for a beating!" Then, Rou Xue rapidly chanted a few words of Dragon Language magic. Mo Han saw a massive fireball materialize instantly in Rou Xue's hand. The casting speed was insane; it appeared almost instantaneously. Mo Han was secretly astonished.

Simultaneously, Rou Xue flicked her jade hand, sending the massive fireball rushing toward Mo Han beside her. It moved with incredible speed, and due to the short distance, it was upon Mo Han in an instant. Mo Han was greatly alarmed; he hadn't expected this girl to attack so suddenly. Caught completely off guard, he had no time to dodge and could only instinctively unleash his protective Battle Qi, forming a barrier around his body.

Before he could fully establish it, the large fireball struck the partially formed barrier of Mo Han’s protective Battle Qi. With a poof, although Mo Han's Battle Qi managed to block the majority of the fireball's power in his haste, the fireball, despite not being a high-level spell, possessed far greater destructive force than one cast by human mages due to the Dragon Clan's naturally superior magical power. Furthermore, Mo Han’s protective Battle Qi was incomplete when struck, allowing a small portion of the flames to scorch his clothes.

Flames immediately ignited, but Mo Han instantly dispersed them with his Battle Qi. However, several holes were left in his attire, leaving Mo Han looking quite disheveled.

Seeing this, Rou Xue couldn't help but giggle, saying triumphantly, "This is just a small lesson for you. See if you dare to talk nonsense next time."

Mo Han heard this, pointed dramatically at the scorched areas of his clothing, and shouted, "Hey, hey! You're murdering your own... kin!"

He stopped halfway when he noticed Rou Xue's expression shift; it seemed she was about to cast another spell. He quickly changed his words. This girl's strength was so terrifying; he had no desire for another "friendly greeting" from her magic. A wise man doesn't fight a losing battle. He'd wait until his cultivation surpassed hers, then he would certainly deal with this girl.

When Rou Xue heard Mo Han's sudden change of tune, she couldn't help but laugh, rolling her eyes at him, and saying, "Who is your kin? Stop trying to claim relations. When did I become part of the Dragon Clan?"

Mo Han heard this and quickly offered a cheerful defense, "Heh heh, doesn't the Princess know the truth that all things under the heavens are one family? Ah, but this is a profound Zen principle. It’s not your fault if the Princess doesn't understand." Mo Han adopted an expression of understanding, gazing sympathetically at Rou Xue.

Rou Xue felt both annoyed and amused. Although she didn't know what "Zen principle" Mo Han was talking about, she mostly understood the gist of his words. She laughed and scolded, "What Zen principle? I think it's your twisted logic! Don't try to deceive me with nonsense. What 'all things under the heavens are one family'? Are you trying to say our Dragon Clan is related to the lowest-grade demonic beasts?"

Mo Han, however, nodded with a playful grin and said, "Heh heh, I told you, you wouldn't understand. If you have the chance later, I'll explain it to you slowly."

Rou Xue shook her head helplessly and said, "I can’t be bothered listening to your nonsense. It’s a good thing I heard these words. Don't speak such nonsense again. If Elder Blight hears you say such things, you'll be in for a world of trouble."

Hearing Rou Xue’s warning, Mo Han recalled the white-robed Elder Blight and casually remarked, "You mean that sour-faced one?"

"Sour face? What sour face?" Rou Xue was momentarily confused, but then she understood what Mo Han meant and couldn't help but chuckle, before looking around nervously. She whispered to Mo Han, "You actually dare say that! You're the first person to dare insult Elder Blight like that. Elder Blight holds a high position and great respect among our clan. If you see him, you absolutely cannot speak carelessly, or even I won't be able to help you."

Rou Xue's words held a hint of genuine concern. Mo Han heard this and quickly nodded with a smile, "Heh heh, do I look like such a fool to the Princess? I only say these things around you. If I ever actually meet Elder Blight, I wouldn't be that stupid. Rest assured."

Hearing this.

Rou Xue could only helplessly roll her eyes at Mo Han and stop talking, continuing toward the valley entrance. Soon they reached the valley entrance where Rou Xue had first escorted Mo Han in. At the entrance, Rou Xue looked at Mo Han and said with a smile, "Alright, I’ll escort you this far. The Duke should remember the way back, right? Do you perhaps need me to ask Elder Blight to personally see you out?" Rou Xue couldn't resist a final dig at Mo Han.

Mo Han’s expression remained unchanged, still smiling as he replied, "Heh heh, thank you for the Princess’s kind offer. No need to be so formal."

After saying this, Mo Han suddenly slapped his forehead as if remembering something, exclaiming loudly, "Oh no! I forgot! This is terrible!"

Rou Xue, who was standing nearby, couldn't help but ask curiously, "What’s wrong? You forgot something upstairs? Why are you shouting?" Mo Han inwardly felt smug, Heh heh, I bet you'll take the bait, girl. Sure enough, your curiosity is piqued!

Thinking this, Mo Han said with an anxious expression, "Ah, this is a major issue! When I left earlier, I forgot to ask Daili and the others to feed my Rú Huā! I wonder if the little fellow is starving?" He then adopted an expression of worry.

Rou Xue knew immediately that Mo Han was insulting her. Just as she was about to teach him a lesson, Mo Han quickly waved his hands anxiously and said, "Don't misunderstand, I'm not mocking you! I genuinely have a pet named Rú Huā, so I’m not talking about you. Don't rush to admit it!" He then looked at Rou Xue with an innocent expression.

Rou Xue was furious but speechless. She understood Mo Han was mocking her. But if she retaliated, wouldn't she essentially be admitting she was Rú Huā? That would perfectly play into Mo Han's hands. Yet, allowing Mo Han to make fun of her like this felt unbearable.

Considering this, Rou Xue simply said coolly, "Oh, really? How come I never knew the Duke had a pet named Rú Huā? As far as I know, the Duke only has two pets—one Earth Bear, and one dual-element Light and Dark beast. Neither of them is named Rú Huā, which is strange." Rou Xue’s words carried a distinct tone of warning, seemingly telling Mo Han not to try deceiving her; she knew his background very well.

Mo Han was inwardly startled but his expression remained unchanged. He smiled and said, "Rú Huā is a new pet I recently adopted, so the Princess might not know. I didn't realize the Princess was so curious about Mo Han! Why bother investigating so arduously? If you wanted to know, you could just ask me directly. What's the relationship between us? Oh, don't misunderstand, I mean we should at least be considered casual acquaintances, right? Ah, it's getting late! I really must leave now. Princess, you don't need to see me out; I can find my own way."

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