Upon hearing Mo Han’s purpose, the Pope of Light spoke with surprise, “You mean the Grand Cathedral of Light in Sky Dragon City has taken no action yet? The Holy See’s directive was issued two days ago.”

Hearing the Pope of Light’s confusion, Mo Han also felt puzzled. He didn't doubt the Pope’s words in the slightest, because Mo Han understood that the Pope of Light had no reason or need to deceive him on this matter.

But if the Church of Light’s intentions had been conveyed long ago, why hadn't High Priest Mora appeared to explain? After several days of unexplained absence, a sudden wave of worry washed over Mo Han.

Something must have gone wrong at the Grand Cathedral of Light in Sky Dragon City. Otherwise, given Mora's character, he absolutely would not have vanished at such a critical moment. At first, Mo Han had a vague feeling that Mora’s disappearance at this juncture was strange, but hearing the Pope of Light’s words cleared everything up for him.

Someone must not want this news to reach Sky Dragon City, intending to put the Sky Dragon Empire in a difficult position, thereby preventing the Sky Dragon Empire’s army from mobilizing easily. This delay would result in missing the best opportunity to deploy troops.

Mo Han naturally understood who would benefit most from such an action. Besides the Nether Race, he truly couldn't imagine anyone else doing such a thing. It seemed certain there was a Nether Race spy within the Grand Cathedral of Light in Sky Dragon City, Mo Han immediately suspected this conclusion.

It was fortunate he had Rou Xue’s help to reach the Holy See within a day; if two more days had passed, the Sky Dragon Empire might not have had time to gather and deploy its troops even if they wanted to.

The Pope of Light had clearly considered this as well.

His expression darkened as he contemplated that a traitor, one who had allied with the Nether Race, existed within the Church of Light, long regarded as the continent's foremost religious institution.

This would undoubtedly be a fatal blow to the prestige of the Church of Light. If exploited by the malicious, the Church of Light’s authority would likely face immediate questioning.

The more the Pope of Light thought about it, the angrier he became. With an icy expression, he addressed one of the Cardinal Archbishops in the grand hall, “Hermos, this matter is entrusted to you for investigation. You will immediately depart for Sky Dragon City with Captain Zavafert and a squad of Judgment Knights. I want this matter investigated thoroughly. As for how to proceed... I shouldn't need to elaborate, should I? If you fail, you don't need to return.”

The Cardinal Archbishop, Hermos, seeing the Pope of Light’s expression and tone, knew His Holiness was in a terrible mood. He dared not say more and hastily nodded to accept the order.

He then swiftly vanished from the Grand Hall of Light.

Having dealt with this, the Pope of Light changed his expression and spoke gratefully to Mo Han, “Thank you, Lord Mo Han, for bringing this news. The Church of Light owes you a favor. If Lord Mo Han has any requests, please do not hesitate to bring them forward.”

His tone was exceptionally polite, causing considerable surprise among the clerical officials present in the hall. They couldn't fathom why the Pope of Light was so courteous to Mo Han. However, Mo Han understood that the Pope’s deference stemmed from having seen through his status as a Law God. Even the mighty Church of Light would surely prefer not to gain an opponent of that caliber. Another reason was likely to mend the rift that had formed over the previous incident involving Shui Ling’er, hence the deliberate goodwill shown towards him.

Mo Han realized that if he were still merely the former Saint Magister, the Pope of Light would certainly not be so courteous. Yet, he had no choice but to accept the Pope’s kindness now. Given the situation with the Sky Dragon Empire, if he refused the offer, who knew what maneuvers the Pope might resort to behind the scenes? With the power of the Church of Light, there were countless ways to hinder the Sky Dragon Empire at this crucial juncture.

Although Mo Han didn't believe the Pope would sabotage such a major event, he dared not take the risk. With this in mind, Mo Han’s expression remained unchanged as he replied, “Your Holiness is too kind. I acted for the sake of the Sky Dragon Empire, so I claim no merit. I only hope Your Holiness can immediately dispatch troops to the Sky Dragon Empire to jointly confront the Nether Race army.”

Seeing Mo Han’s cooperation, the Pope of Light was greatly pleased and smiled, saying, “Please rest assured, Lord Mo Han. The Judgment Knights began preparations two days ago; they should be able to set off for the Sky Dragon Empire tomorrow.”

Upon hearing this, Mo Han inwardly breathed a sigh of relief. Since the main objective of his visit was resolved, there was no reason to linger. He needed to relay this information immediately to the Sky Dragon Emperor so he could mobilize troops as soon as possible. Thinking this, he took his leave from the Pope of Light.

The Pope of Light naturally understood Mo Han’s urgency to return to the Sky Dragon Empire. He feigned persuasion, urging Mo Han to visit the Church of Light when he had time, before sending Elder Guang Huo to escort Mo Han out. In the Church of Light at this time, perhaps only Elder Guang Huo shared a better relationship with Mo Han than Shui Ling’er did.

“Aren’t you going to see that girl Ling’er?” Elder Guang Huo asked Mo Han with a smile after they left the Grand Hall of Light. “That girl has been cooped up in the palace for months without stepping out.”

Hearing Guang Huo, Mo Han was momentarily taken aback. Recalling the Pope of Light’s prior command, he couldn’t help but ask, “Elder, aren't you afraid your Pope will blame you for doing this?” Guang Huo responded dismissively, “You don’t need to worry about that. Even if the Pope found out, I doubt he’d say anything to me. Why are you men so long-winded? Are you going or not? If not, hurry up and scram.”

Mo Han felt a complex mix of emotions, finding it amusing that his well-intentioned inquiry was met with a scolding. However, knowing Guang Huo’s temper, Mo Han naturally didn't argue and quickly agreed with a smile.

Mo Han had initially planned to visit Shui Ling’er before departing anyway. With his current strength, Mo Han believed even the Pope of Light wouldn't make an issue of it. Since Guang Huo had brought it up, Mo Han was spared some trouble, and he followed Elder Guang Huo toward Shui Ling’er’s palace.

Arriving at the entrance of Shui Ling’er’s palace, Guang Huo wittily pulled Rou Xue along to “enjoy the scenery of the Holy See,” leaving Mo Han to enter the palace alone. Mo Han had known Shui Ling’er for so long, yet this was his first time inside. Thinking of Shui Ling’er’s delicate beauty, Mo Han’s heart quickened, tinged with a strange nervousness.

It was important to note that Mo Han currently possessed the strength of a Law God, rarely experiencing such emotional fluctuations. This reaction made him realize just how much he had missed Shui Ling’er. With this thought, Mo Han quickened his pace toward Shui Ling’er’s private chambers.

Upon reaching the quarters, Mo Han was once again awestruck by the wealth of the Church of Light. Shui Ling’er’s single palace complex alone was likely larger than the Sky Dragon Empire’s Imperial Palace.

***.

The Church of Light truly had money to spare. Every ornamental piece he saw along the corridors of the palace was priceless. The construction cost of this palace alone probably rivaled the wealth of a small nation. Numerous Judgment Knights stood guard along the way, but these guards seemed to have been instructed by Guang Huo, as they paid no mind to Mo Han’s arrival, allowing him to proceed directly into the inner sanctuary.

In the inner sanctuary, what struck Mo Han as odd was that the vast palace seemed deserted; not a single servant was in sight, leaving him no one to ask for directions. However, having visited the Sky Dragon Imperial Palace many times before, Mo Han had a general understanding of the layout of such large palace structures.

Therefore, despite the palace’s size, Mo Han wasn't worried about getting lost. Following his intuition, he soon arrived at a quiet courtyard. At the courtyard entrance stood several guards clad in golden armor. Unlike the ordinary soldiers of the Church of Light, these golden-armored guards differed not only in their uniform style from the Judgment Knights but also possessed strength far surpassing the outside soldiers.

Mo Han casually sensed their power; each one was no weaker than a High Sword Master, and one had even reached the level of a Great Sword Master. Outside the continent, such a force could easily repel a small army.

It seemed the hidden strength of the Church of Light was considerable. Mo Han wondered how many of these Golden Armor Knights existed. If they could form a legion of ten thousand, Mo Han believed they would be a force capable of sweeping the continent—even he might have to detour if he encountered such an army.

Seeing Mo Han, the golden-armored knights displayed alertness in their eyes. However, their gaze quickly shifted from hostility to astonishment. These skilled knights clearly sensed Mo Han’s immeasurably profound cultivation, far beyond their ability to resist.

Yet, bound by duty, the knight with the highest cultivation, the one who was a Great Sword Master, suddenly stepped forward and sternly challenged Mo Han, “Who are you, and why have you come to the Holy Hall? This is a critical area of the Church. If you have trespassed by mistake, you should leave immediately.”

This Golden Knight had discerned that Mo Han’s strength was beyond their ability to counter, which explained his comparatively polite tone. Had it been anyone else, they would likely have been apprehended as a spy already.

Seeing the challenge, Mo Han replied with a smile, “I am Chen Mo Han, and I am a friend of your Saintess. I have come specifically to visit her today. Could you please announce my arrival, brother?”

Hearing Mo Han’s answer, the leading Golden Knight seemed startled and said, “You are Chen Mo Han?” Judging by his tone, did this person know him? Mo Han felt confused, yet he didn't recall knowing this knight. Still, Mo Han politely nodded and asked, “That is me? Do you know me, brother?” The Golden Knight shook his head and replied, “I do not know Lord Mo Han, but an order came down earlier stating that Lord Mo Han must not be obstructed. Therefore, Lord Mo Han may proceed.”

With that, the Golden Knight stepped aside first, clearing a path for Mo Han.

Mo Han understood that this was likely the work of that old rascal Guang Huo. It seemed Guang Huo held slightly more authority within the Church of Light than Mo Han had initially imagined. With this realization, Mo Han, feeling no need to be overly formal, thanked the guard and proceeded toward the inner court.

Upon reaching the inner courtyard, a servant, after Mo Han stated his purpose, led him directly to Shui Ling’er’s door. After bringing Mo Han here, the attendant spoke respectfully toward the room, “Reporting to Her Ladyship the Saintess, someone requests an audience.”

“Didn't I say I won't see anyone recently? Have you forgotten?” Shui Ling’er’s voice, faint yet imbued with hidden authority, drifted slowly from within.

Hearing Shui Ling’er, Mo Han felt a surge of excitement. Seeing the attendant’s embarrassed expression, Mo Han smiled and gestured for him to leave first. The attendant, apparently having instructions from Guang Huo, only gave Mo Han an awkward smile before departing.

Standing outside the door, Mo Han took a deep breath to calm his racing heart.

He pushed the door open and stepped inside just as Shui Ling’er’s slightly annoyed voice cut through, “I said I wouldn't see anyone! You…”

Shui Ling’er stared blankly at the figure before her—that familiar face that had haunted her dreams countless times. The words she was about to utter died on her lips as she quietly gazed at Mo Han. Her eyes revealed a deep shock, which slowly transformed into profound delight, and then into a gaze filled with complex emotion—that look brimming with deep affection.

Even an idiot like Mo Han could sense the depth of feeling, but in a flash, Shui Ling’er quickly concealed those emotions deep within her heart, yet it didn't escape Mo Han’s notice. Mo Han remained silent, simply looking at her with a steady smile. For a moment, they remained frozen there.

“Why are you here?” After a long while, Shui Ling’er slowly managed to compose herself and spoke softly.

“What’s wrong? Is it a crime for me to visit my wife?” Mo Han acted as if he were entering his own home, walking directly up to Shui Ling’er, picking up a cup of tea on the table that still held a faint warmth, and taking a drink. It was the same cup Shui Ling’er had been drinking from, still bearing a faint trace of feminine fragrance near the rim.

Seeing Mo Han’s action, Shui Ling’er’s face flushed, and she admonished him with a playful pout, “Who is your wife? Don’t talk nonsense.” Despite her words, she sat down in the chair opposite Mo Han.

“Of course, it’s our Ling’er, who else could it be? Ling’er, are you trying to abandon me and shirk responsibility? If so, I won’t live…”

Mo Han immediately adopted a look of exaggerated grief, as if he were truly abandoned, gazing mournfully at Shui Ling’er.

“You… you just talk nonsense,” Shui Ling’er chided upon hearing his words and seeing his expression. “When have I ever abandoned you?”

“You haven’t abandoned me? That’s a relief, you scared me to death,” Mo Han said, patting his chest dramatically, feigning relief. Seeing Shui Ling’er about to speak, Mo Han gave her no chance, continuing immediately, “I knew my Ling’er was the best to me, how could she ever leave me? Come here, my dear Ling’er, it’s been too long, aren't you going to give your husband a hug?”

Even with Shui Ling’er’s composure, Mo Han’s brazen words caused her face to burn crimson, resembling a ripe peach, exquisitely tender and overwhelmingly beautiful, causing Mo Han to momentarily stare in awe.

Noticing Mo Han’s gaze, Shui Ling’er let out a soft huff and said, “What are you looking at, pervert?”

Mo Han seemed not to hear her, maintaining his smile as he replied, “Is it wrong for me to look at my wife? But how did my wife know my nickname? My wife knows me best after all.”

Mo Han slipped the words “my wife” in so naturally, completely disregarding Shui Ling’er’s objections and ignoring her protests. Shui Ling’er knew well that Mo Han’s audacity was thicker than city walls; any further opposition would be useless and change nothing. Moreover, she secretly found herself enjoying being called that by Mo Han. Thus, after her protests proved futile, she gave up arguing.

“Right, you still haven’t told me why you came to the Holy See? The Church of Light has already placed you on the list of unwelcome visitors, you…” Shui Ling’er suddenly seemed to recall something and looked at Mo Han with clear concern.

Feeling Shui Ling’er’s concern, Mo Han’s heart warmed immensely. He smiled and replied, “Don’t worry. Since I could come, naturally, I am not afraid of that old man the Pope making things difficult for me.”

Hearing Mo Han refer to the most powerful figure on the continent, the Pope of Light, as an ‘old man,’ Shui Ling’er rolled her eyes helplessly and said, “Don’t talk nonsense. If those outside heard you, tens of millions might immediately seek to fight you.”

“Hehe. I’m only saying this to my wife. My wife won’t betray me, will you?” Mo Han remained nonchalant, even using the opportunity while speaking to subtly shift his position closer to Shui Ling’er’s seat. Once the words were out, he looked as if nothing had happened, his expression unchanged.

Seeing Mo Han’s action, Shui Ling’er realized words were useless and simply ignored his movement, saying, “You still haven’t told me why you came to the Holy See?” Mo Han then recounted his purpose for visiting and the imminent invasion by the Nether Race. Shui Ling’er listened quietly as Mo Han spoke.

When Mo Han finished, Shui Ling’er’s expression turned grave, and she spoke, “So the Nether Race is about to invade? I believe High Priest Mora would never betray the Church; something must have gone wrong. Brother Mo Han, you must help High Priest Mora. Archbishop Hermos and High Priest Mora have always been at odds. Who knows if he might use this opportunity to deal with Mora?”

Hearing this, Mo Han nodded seriously, replying, “Rest assured, this is a request from my wife. How could I possibly forget? If that Hermos truly intends to use this chance to eliminate dissent, I will be the first to deal with him.”

Hearing Mo Han’s promise, Shui Ling’er nodded in relief. Seeing how seriously Mo Han took her words, a sweet feeling welled up in her heart. She said, “I imagine when the Judgment Knights depart tomorrow, His Holiness the Pope will certainly lead the main forces of the Church to the Sky Dragon Empire. With the Church’s help, combined with the aid of the great empires, I think there shouldn’t be too much trouble.”

Mo Han was not as optimistic as Shui Ling’er. He forced a bitter smile and said, “That’s because you haven’t seen the strength of the Nether King. I fear that even the combined might of the entire continent cannot match the Nether King’s Nether Race army.”

Mo Han had witnessed the Nether King’s power firsthand. At the time, the Nether King, separated by a dimension, could control a weak mercenary and restrain Mo Han, who was a Sword Saint, using the power of the Netherworld. It was imaginable how terrifying the Nether King’s power would be without such constraints. When Mo Han was in the Forest of Death, he heard Blaze recount that the Nether King’s strength far surpassed that of beings like Blaze. After witnessing Blaze’s own power, Mo Han understood how formidable Blaze was; since even Blaze was far from a match for the Nether King, adding the forces currently on the continent likely wouldn't be enough to defeat the Nether Race.

Shui Ling’er was greatly shocked when she heard Mo Han’s account and replied with slight disbelief, “Is the Nether King truly that powerful? Can even God-level experts not resist him?”

“God-level is just a title for experts above the Saint level; in reality, it probably doesn't approach the power of the ancient gods,” Mo Han replied with a wry smile to Shui Ling’er’s question. “Remember, the Nether King is a deity whose existence spans an unknowable antiquity, perhaps predating this continent itself. He won't be easily dealt with.”

Seeing that Shui Ling’er seemed stunned by the Nether King’s might, Mo Han quickly added, “However, I know that the Nether King’s power is restricted when he enters the Dragon Ascendant Continent. So, if we put forth our full effort, we still have a chance of winning.”

As for how Mo Han came by this knowledge, it was naturally intelligence gleaned from Blaze. Only after hearing Mo Han’s comfort did Shui Ling’er return to normal, turning to him with genuine concern. “Then you must be extremely careful yourself. Don’t try to be a hero; you absolutely must wait until we arrive.”

Mo Han knew that Shui Ling’er’s ‘we’ naturally referred to the armies of the Church of Light. Since the principal figures of the Church would be heading to the Tianlong Empire, Shui Ling’er would naturally go as well.

Seeing how worried Shui Ling’er was for him warmed Mo Han’s heart, and he spoke, “Don’t worry. Have you forgotten what I told you? I’m like a cockroach; even the King of Hell wouldn’t have an easy time dealing with me. Besides, do you have so little faith in your husband? That’s truly heartbreaking.”

Having said that, he deliberately put on a wounded expression.

Shui Ling’er naturally knew Mo Han was jesting, but seeing his face, she couldn’t help but let out a soft laugh. With Ling’er’s smile, the entire room seemed to brighten considerably in Mo Han’s perception.

“How did I never notice how beautiful my wife is before? She is truly the most beautiful woman on the Dragon Rise Continent.”

Seeing Shui Ling’er staring at him, Mo Han quickly laid on the flattery, eliciting a delicate giggle from her. She playfully chided him, “It’s a ghost that believes you. If I’m the most beautiful, then what about your other dozens of close confidantes?” “Hehe, Ling’er, that outfit you’re wearing today is nice, isn't it? It suits your figure perfectly. Tell me where you got it; I’ll find that tailor another day to design a set for me too.”

Sensing the atmosphere shift, Mo Han quickly changed the subject.

Shui Ling’er was momentarily speechless. Since this was her room, she wasn't dressed formally; she was merely wearing a light-blue gown that was essentially sleepwear. Looking down at the loose, baggy garment, she realized it had no real style. Only someone as shameless as Mo Han could say such things without blushing or stammering.

Mo Han seemed to realize he’d overstepped and forced an awkward smile. Shui Ling’er, seeing this, couldn't help but give him a charming, flirtatious glance—a stark contrast to her usual pure image.

Combined with the looseness of her attire, it lent her an air of languor. Though no alluring skin was revealed, it somehow made her appear even more enticing. Mo Han was momentarily stunned, his gaze fixed intently on her figure, and a thick, sweet spring-like aura suddenly enveloped the entire room.

Sensing the unusual quality in Mo Han’s eyes—that naked scrutiny—Shui Ling’er felt as if she were completely bare under his stare. Her face instantly flushed crimson, and she scolded him shyly, “What are you looking at, you pervert? Close your eyes quickly!”

But Mo Han wasn't about to stop. Without hesitation, he swiftly pulled Shui Ling’er into his embrace, laughing heartily. “If I let go now, wouldn’t I regret it for the rest of my life?”

Shui Ling’er gasped as she was suddenly held, struggling momentarily. However, her strength was nothing compared to Mo Han’s. After a few weak attempts to break free, realizing she couldn't escape, and feeling an unexpected, faint pleasure in the sensation, Shui Ling’er startled herself.

What is happening to me? I actually enjoy being held by a man? This was something she wouldn't have dared to even imagine before.

Inhaling the distinct male scent of sweat and body odor emanating from Mo Han, Shui Ling’er’s heart rate quickened, and her breathing grew rapid. But she stopped struggling, content to sit quietly in his arms. Though her face was flushed scarlet, at least she wasn't panicking like before.

Seeing this, Mo Han certainly didn’t hold back. From time to time, his hand moved up and down her body, indulging in a little 'borrowing' from Shui Ling’er, causing her to cry out repeatedly. Yet, she was powerless against him, so she could only extend her delicate hand to affectionately greet Mo Han’s abdominal muscles.

Mo Han sucked in a sharp breath from the sudden pain, speaking with a mixture of tears and laughter, “Hey, Ling’er, my wife, are you trying to murder your husband? You hit so hard, I’m going to bruise for sure.”

Shui Ling’er shot him a shy glance, scolded him with a pout, “Hmph, serves you right! Who told your hands to wander around? If you move again, I’ll show you my power.”

“When did I wander around? Don't frame me!”

Mo Han quickly put on an earnest expression to defend himself.

“You still say you didn't? You clearly… you just…” Hearing his defense, Shui Ling’er started to retort indignantly, but after much effort, she couldn't utter a single word. After all, the places Mo Han’s hands had explored were precisely the most private areas for a woman, and given Shui Ling’er’s nature, she was too embarrassed to say it out loud.