Rou Xue was inwardly surprised by Kalimo’s reply, and just as she was about to say something, Kalimo silenced her with a look, forcing her to remain quiet and see what exactly Kalimo intended to do. Guang Huo, observing the expressions of the two, mistakenly thought Rou Xue was worried about her friend’s injury making movement difficult. With that in mind, Guang Huo spoke with a smile, “How about this: the Saintess and I already planned to enter the city later. You tell us your address, and we will find you when we enter the city. This way, it also avoids affecting your friend’s injury. What do you think?”

Hearing Guang Huo’s response, Kalimo quickly offered his sincere thanks with a smile, stated the name of their inn, and then pulled the hesitant Rou Xue away from the headquarters of the Church of Light.

As soon as they left the Church headquarters, Rou Xue couldn’t help but speak up, “Elder Kalimo, why didn’t you let me tell the truth? You clearly know that even if the Saintess of Light comes, she won't be able to save Brother Mo Han. Why agree to Elder Guang Huo’s suggestion?” Hearing Rou Xue’s question, Kalimo smiled and replied, “Of course I know the Saintess of Light cannot treat Brother Mo Han.”

“Then you still agreed to Elder Guang Huo’s suggestion?” Rou Xue grew even more bewildered.

Kalimo, hearing this, spoke with profound meaning, “Your Highness, please do not forget. To save young brother Mo Han, we must use the Church of Light’s treasured possession, the ‘Seven-Colored Feather.’ We don’t know the exact depth of Elder Guang Huo’s friendship with young brother Mo Han; if we were to state our request, the other party might just kick us out before we even finish speaking. At that point, if we want to save Brother Mo Han, it will likely become even more difficult. However, the Saintess definitely shares a deep bond with young brother Mo Han—we can deduce this from the intelligence we’ve gathered. That is why I made this arrangement.”

Hearing Kalimo’s answer, Rou Xue seemed to grasp his intent and said, “So, Elder, you mean to have the Saintess of Light personally see Mo Han, and once she sees the severity of his injuries, she will naturally understand our purpose?” Kalimo nodded with a smile, “Precisely. This way will certainly be much more effective than us just saying it directly. Moreover, given the Saintess of Light’s status within the Church of Light, if she is willing to stand with us, I believe our chances will be much greater.”

Upon hearing Kalimo’s plan, Rou Xue couldn’t help but admire his stratagem. Truly, the older the ginger, the hotter the spice. No wonder her father had sent Kalimo to assist her; if it had been her, she certainly wouldn’t have thought of this. Yet, when she considered the relationship between Mo Han and the Saintess of Light, Rou Xue felt an inexplicable wave of unease deep in her heart.

Even she didn't notice it herself, and Rou Xue chose not to probe deeper. All she wanted now was to heal Mo Han’s injuries as quickly as possible to put her mind at ease.

Not long after Rou Xue and Kalimo returned to the inn, Guang Huo, accompanied by Shui Ling’er and guarded by several Paladins, arrived at the inn’s lobby. Upon seeing the Saintess arrive, the innkeeper thought he was seeing things, but after confirming it was indeed the Saintess, everyone crowded into the lobby, eager to see the Saintess of Light up close, as such an opportunity was rare for most people.

When Shui Ling’er saw Rou Xue, she was also astonished by her friend’s strength and beauty. When Guang Huo had told her about Rou Xue’s power, she had harbored doubts, as she couldn’t believe anyone could possess such high cultivation at such a young age. But upon seeing Rou Xue, Shui Ling’er completely believed Guang Huo’s words, though she remained deeply shocked, as it was truly hard to comprehend.

Seeing Shui Ling’er, Rou Xue was equally stunned by her appearance. Shui Ling’er was barefaced, with gracefully curved eyebrows and bright, long eyes that cast a clear, tranquil, gentle light. Her entire demeanor exuded a sacred, dignified, and enchanting elegance—truly the dream woman of every man in the mortal world. No wonder Brother Mo Han was so entangled with this Saintess. If Rou Xue were a man, she might also be captivated by her looks. Rou Xue thought inwardly, though her face remained wreathed in smiles as she greeted Shui Ling’er and Guang Huo.

After a few pleasantries, Elder Kalimo and Rou Xue led Shui Ling’er and Elder Guang Huo toward the room where Mo Han was resting. As soon as they stepped inside, Shui Ling’er and Guang Huo simultaneously spotted Mo Han lying on the bed. However, because Mo Han was currently enveloped by a protective barrier, Shui Ling’er and Guang Huo could not clearly see his true appearance.

It was Shui Ling’er who, upon seeing the protective barrier, spoke with surprise, “If I’m not mistaken, this injured person is protected by an ancient sealing magic that has been lost for ages—it immobilizes all life or objects, intended to preserve whatever is inside the barrier, immune to the effects of time. It is a form of magic that is incredibly difficult to master.”

Hearing Shui Ling’er’s explanation, a hint of surprise flashed in Rou Xue and Kalimo’s eyes. They hadn’t expected Shui Ling’er to have such profound knowledge of ancient magic, in addition to her expertise in Light Magic.

Shui Ling’er continued, “Furthermore, this Stasis Barrier requires at least the cultivation level of a Saint Archmage to cast. Even a slight error can result in a backlash, so high-level Saint Archmages rarely employ this magic. I hope my understanding is correct? Please don’t laugh at me, Miss Rou Xue.” Hearing Shui Ling’er’s words, Rou Xue spoke with astonishment, “I never imagined that the Saintess would not only master Light Magic but also possess such deep insight into these ancient spells. I am truly in awe, Saintess.”

Shui Ling’er quickly replied with a smile, “Miss Rou Xue is too kind. I merely happen to know a little about it. Oh, right, Miss Rou Xue, you must find a way to dispel this Stasis Barrier, otherwise, I fear I won't be able to accurately treat the injured person.”

Upon hearing Shui Ling’er’s request, Rou Xue and Kalimo exchanged a glance and nodded. Then, Rou Xue stepped toward the barrier and began to chant softly. With a gentle wave of her jade-like hand, a flash of golden light appeared, and the red barrier surrounding Mo Han’s body gradually vanished without a trace.

When Shui Ling’er saw the injured person within the barrier, her complexion drastically changed, and her exquisite face immediately drained of color. She cried out involuntarily, “Brother Mo Han... What happened? What is wrong with Brother Mo Han? Is the injured person you spoke of Brother Mo Han?” Guang Huo, in the room, also turned pale upon realizing the injured party was Mo Han.

Seeing Shui Ling’er’s reaction, Kalimo and Rou Xue felt relieved. From the anxious expression on Shui Ling’er’s face, it was clear her feelings for Mo Han were significant, meaning she was much more likely to help him. With the aid of Shui Ling’er, the Saintess of Light, Mo Han’s hope for recovery was greatly increased. Yet, deep within Rou Xue’s heart, an inexplicable ache arose.

Rou Xue didn't understand why; wasn't Shui Ling’er's distress a good sign that Mo Han’s chances of recovery were higher? Yet, why did she feel a pang of sadness? What was wrong with her? Rou Xue quickly pushed aside those thoughts and turned to explain to Shui Ling’er, “Yes, our injured person is indeed Brother Mo Han. He was wounded by the Dragon Flame Aura of the Demon Dragon Clan and is currently on the brink of death. Only the Saintess can save him. I beg you, please save Brother Mo Han. If it weren't for him shielding me, he wouldn't have suffered such severe internal injuries.”

Hearing this, Shui Ling’er looked at Rou Xue a few times before immediately and earnestly examining Mo Han’s injuries. However, the more she checked, the paler her complexion became, and her expression grew more grave. After a long moment, Shui Ling’er spoke with deep seriousness, “How exactly was Brother Mo Han injured? I hope Miss Rou Xue can explain the details to me. Why is it so severe?” Hearing Shui Ling’er, Guang Huo anxiously interjected, “Ling’er, how is it? Are Brother Mo Han’s injuries truly that severe? Is there still a chance?” Shui Ling’er nodded and replied, “Brother Mo Han is practically on the verge of death. His injuries are too severe; all his bodily functions are damaged and beyond repair. He has only managed to hold on this long thanks to his profound strength, willpower, and the protection of the Stasis Barrier. But now that the Stasis Barrier is removed, Brother Mo Han’s condition will deteriorate rapidly. I fear he won’t make it through today.”

The others in the room were shocked by Shui Ling’er’s words. Rou Xue spoke urgently, “Saintess, forgive my presumption, but I know that only the Church of Light can save Brother Mo Han’s life now. I implore you, please save him! I, Rou Xue, swear here and now that if you can save Brother Mo Han, I, representing our Sacred Dragon Clan, will agree to any single condition or request from your Church of Light. We will never go back on our word.”

Kalimo, standing nearby, started to stop her but, seeing Rou Xue’s expression, restrained himself, letting out a helpless sigh and falling silent.

Hearing Rou Xue’s response, Shui Ling’er spoke with surprise, “So you are of the Dragon Clan? No wonder your strength is so high. But why are you so certain we have a way to save Brother Mo Han?” Rou Xue no longer concealed anything and replied, “I know that the only thing that can save Brother Mo Han’s life now is the ‘Seven-Colored Feather’ of the Church of Light. I know this request is excessive, but we are truly out of options, so we had no choice but to seek the Saintess’s help.”

The moment Rou Xue mentioned the ‘Seven-Colored Feather,’ Elder Mo—referring to Kalimo—felt his expression turn helpless. This princess of his! By bringing it up now, hadn’t she just made it obvious to the people of the Church of Light that they were prepared? Wasn’t this like shooting themselves in the foot? Shui Ling’er and Guang Huo’s faces shifted slightly upon hearing ‘Seven-Colored Feather.’ Shui Ling’er spoke calmly, “I did not expect Miss Rou Xue to know even about that. It seems you were well-prepared. Calling me here to help treat Brother Mo Han seems to have been part of your plan all along, hasn’t it?” With Shui Ling’er’s intelligence, she could guess that the entire affair must have been a carefully arranged scheme by Rou Xue and the others the moment the ‘Seven-Colored Feather’ was mentioned.

Seeing that Shui Ling’er had uncovered their plan, Rou Xue did not deny it, replying sadly, “Yes, I know what we did was improper, but please, Saintess, in light of our desperate circumstances, I hope you can understand. If we had mentioned the solution of the ‘Seven-Colored Feather’ from the start, we likely would have been turned away before even meeting the Saintess. That is why we resorted to this measure out of necessity. I hope the Saintess can forgive our unavoidable actions, but please, you must save Brother Mo Han.”

Hearing Rou Xue’s reply, Shui Ling’er sighed helplessly, looked at Rou Xue, and spoke with deep significance, “From your tone, it sounds like you are also deeply concerned about Brother Mo Han. It seems your relationship with him is not shallow, otherwise Miss Rou Xue wouldn’t be willing to agree to any of our conditions just to save Brother Mo Han’s life. But Miss Rou Xue, have you truly considered this: are you willing to make this promise on behalf of the Dragon Clan?”

Rou Xue quickly responded, “Saintess, please don’t misunderstand. Brother Mo Han and I are merely ordinary friends. However, since Brother Mo Han was injured protecting me, it is my duty to save his life. Furthermore, I can honestly tell the Saintess that I am the Princess of the Sacred Dragon Clan. Therefore, the promise I just made is absolutely valid. As long as it does not violate the conscience and morality of the Dragon Clan, our Sacred Dragon Clan will never break its word.”

Hearing Rou Xue’s assurance, a faint smile touched the corner of Shui Ling’er’s lips. Shui Ling’er then said, “So, Miss Rou Xue is the Princess of the Sacred Dragon Clan. Please forgive my earlier rudeness. But, Saintess, please don't misunderstand my questioning. I didn't doubt you; I merely wanted the Princess to understand what she was doing. Moreover, I can tell you honestly that even if your Dragon Clan hadn't offered this condition, I would have saved Brother Mo Han regardless of the cost.”

Although Shui Ling’er’s words were soft, they carried an undeniable firmness; no one would doubt the truth in her declaration. No one believed Shui Ling’er incapable of achieving this.

Rou Xue was instantly reassured and quickly expressed her gratitude, “Thank you, Saintess, for your honesty. But please rest assured, our Sacred Dragon Clan never goes back on its word. My previous statement remains valid. If the Church of Light has any needs, our Sacred Dragon Clan will strive to fulfill them.”

Shui Ling’er smiled faintly, “Princess, there is no need for thanks. I am doing this not for you, but for Brother Mo Han, so you don't need to thank me. Now, I must return to the Church of Light to see His Holiness the Pope and begin saving Brother Mo Han’s life as soon as possible. You all stay here and take good care of Brother Mo Han. I will return as quickly as I can.” Having said this, Shui Ling’er bowed slightly to Rou Xue and Kalimo, turned, and left with Guang Huo.

As soon as Shui Ling’er departed, Kalimo, standing behind Rou Xue, spoke, “Princess, you were too impulsive! How could you casually agree to the demands of the Church of Light? While the Clan Leader might be manageable, if the elders in the clan find out about this, it will surely cause trouble again!”

Hearing Kalimo’s warning, Rou Xue turned to him and said with a smile, “Thank you for your concern, Elder. I know what I did was slightly improper, but Brother Mo Han was injured because of me. Therefore, as long as it can save his life, no matter what the cost, I will do it. I will explain the matter to the various elders and my father when I return myself.”

Kalimo shook his head with a wry, helpless smile. “Very well, I’ve long known the Princess’s temperament. Ever since childhood, you’ve always been this way, and I was prepared for it. Since I accompanied the Princess on this trip, the main responsibility naturally falls on me. Let me explain this to the Clan Leader and the various elders when we return. You need not say anything, Princess, as it might negatively affect your reputation within the clan later. Do you understand my meaning, Princess?”

Rou Xue understood that Elder Kalimo was looking out for her. If the clan elders learned that she had so easily made such a solemn promise for the sake of a human man, it would undoubtedly lead to more complications. That was why he was taking full responsibility upon himself.

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