The high-altitude battlefield was in a state of stalemate.
Luke truly lived up to his status as a Rank 6 Fallen Angel; his combat power was off the charts.
Whoosh!
The dark holy sword in his hand slashed down with the power to tear through space, forcing Anrak to dodge in a disheveled manner.
Rip!
The blade swept through the void, unexpectedly carving a pitch-black spatial rift directly behind Anrak.
"Damn it, this lunatic."
Anrak was both shocked and enraged; although he was a vampire Duke known for his speed, he felt his pressure double under Luke's suicidal fighting style.
"Help me!"
Seeing this, the two other vampire Dukes behind him immediately transformed into mists of blood and rushed forward, the three vampires surrounding Luke in a frenzied assault.
Although Luke was peerlessly powerful, under the siege of three experts of the same rank, he could only barely maintain his ground; killing them was almost impossible.
On the other side, the situation was far from optimistic.
Although Mikaela was also Rank 6, she was a traditional Holy Angel specializing in purification and support; her 1v1 combat ability was inherently inferior to that of a Fallen Angel.
Facing three Silver Blood Wolf Kings with thick hides and incredible recovery power, she was struggling immensely.
Bang!
One wolf king tanked a Holy Light Slash and retaliated with a claw strike against Mikaela's shield, sending her flying dozens of meters back as a trace of blood leaked from the corner of her mouth.
"Cough, cough..."
Mikaela's face was pale, and the light from the holy sword in her hand dimmed slightly.
"As expected..."
Below, Steve watched the scene and shook his head slightly.
"No wonder so many angels in the Church of Light choose to fall into darkness; the gap in combat power at the same rank is just too obvious."
"While the power of light is vast, on a battlefield of pure slaughter, it is indeed not as direct and effective as darkness."
"It seems the Fallen Angels, who are better at fighting, are definitely the reason the Church of Light can stand firm against so many races."
The battlefield was split into three, with each area erupting with suffocating energy fluctuations.
In the area where Muriel was, darkness surged like a tide.
By now, she had fully entered her Fallen Angel form. Her pitch-black armor outlined her graceful yet powerful figure, and every swing of the dark holy sword in her hand turned vast swaths of undead into dust.
Although the three Skeleton Archbishops from the Dark Church used strange methods, they were still suppressed and left breathless in the face of absolute power.
"Hehehaha, come forth, Abyssal Abomination!"
Seeing they were no match, a Skeleton Archbishop suddenly crushed a piece of black bone.
Roar!
From the pitch-black undead Portal, a massive rotting hand suddenly reached out. Then, a giant monster stitched together from countless corpses and dripping with green venom roared as it charged out, lunging straight for Muriel's back.
"Hmph, filthy thing."
Muriel snorted coldly, a hint of disgust flashing in her heterochromatic eyes.
Buzz!
Almost instantly, the dense dark aura around her receded, replaced by a golden holy light that was brilliant to the extreme!
The transition between light and dark was as smooth as flowing water.
The demonic sword in her hand instantly transformed back into an Angelic Holy Sword burning with divine flames, its demon-breaking attribute erupting in full force.
"Judgment."
Whoosh!
A golden sword light sliced through the body of the Abyssal Abomination without any resistance.
The monster, which had just appeared and hadn't even had a chance to show its might, couldn't even let out a scream before being vaporized by the terrifying holy light, leaving not a trace of ash behind.
"This... this woman is simply a monster."
The three from the Dark Church retreated repeatedly in fear, their hearts filled with bitterness.
With both light and dark in one body and the ability to switch at any time, it meant she had absolutely no weaknesses on the battlefield.
Just as Muriel was preparing to press her advantage and completely eliminate these three scourges...
Thump! Thump!
The brilliant angels heart in her chest suddenly throbbed twice, and a strong sense of warning surged in her heart.
She abruptly turned her head toward the west.
Not just her, but the three from the Dark Church also sensed those two undisguised, violent auras at the same time.
"Hahahaha, excellent!"
The ghost fires in the Skeleton Archbishop's eyes instantly flared up.
"The experts of the Orc race have arrived. Muriel, you won't be able to leave today!"
As soon as he finished speaking, the distant clouds were violently smashed aside.
Two figures as strong as mountains descended with a crash.
They were two Pig-man warriors with hideous pig heads, covered in black hair, and muscles bulging like granite.
They emitted a terrifying aura no less than Rank 6; they were the emperors of the Orc race, the Heroic Magic Boar Emperors.
"Oh no."
Muriel's heart immediately sank to the bottom.
She quickly scanned the entire field.
Her brother, Luke, was being entangled by three vampire Dukes; although he had the upper hand, he couldn't break free in a short time.
Her sister, Mikaela, was completely suppressed by three Silver Blood Wolf Kings, her situation extremely precarious.
And now, she had to face three Dark Archbishops alone, plus the two newly arrived Rank 6 Orc emperors.
One against five.
This was almost a guaranteed loss.
But I cannot retreat... Muriel gripped the sword in her hand, her gaze becoming incredibly firm.
Once she allowed these two to go and support the other battlefields, whether it was her brother or sister, they would certainly die.
"Jase, come and help quickly!"
The Skeleton Archbishop shouted at the two pig-men.
"Hmph."
The Pig-man emperor named Jase shouldered a massive spiked club and snorted with a face full of displeasure.
"On what grounds? Old Skeleton, if you want us to act, you at least have to give us some benefits. Otherwise, why should I risk my life for you for nothing?"
"What do you want?"
The Skeleton Archbishop gritted his teeth.
Jase's small, greedy eyes stared intently at Muriel as he stuck out his crimson tongue and licked his tusks.
"I don't want that angels heart; I want her Angel's Blood."
"What?"
The Skeleton Archbishop cursed the pig-head's insatiable greed in his heart.
Angel's Blood contained extremely vast life energy and divine laws; for a race with such powerful physical bodies like the Orcs, it was simply the ultimate tonic.
But at this moment, he had no other choice.
"Fine."
The Skeleton Archbishop gritted his teeth and agreed.
"So what if I give you the Angel's Blood? I only want the angels heart."
"Deal."
A fierce light shone in Jase's eyes as he roared at his companion beside him.
"Battle Brother, support me! Let's go!"
Boom! Boom!
The two Pig-man emperors charged toward Muriel with a momentum that could destroy the world.
"Undead Scourge."
The Skeleton Archbishop in the rear wasn't idle either. As he waved his staff, countless skeleton archers with bone bows and ghost mages poured out of the Portal. Overwhelming dark magic and bone arrows rained down on Muriel.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Muriel was instantly plunged into a desperate situation.
In close combat, there were two Rank 6 Pig-man emperors of immense strength, every punch creating a gale that could tear through space.
From a distance, there was an endless bombardment of magic.
Even with her peerless talent, she seemed unable to hold her own under such a siege.
"Pfft..."
Muriel was struck on her holy shield by the Pig Demon's club, sending her flying backward with a trace of golden blood leaking from the corner of her mouth.
"Could it be, I can only use that move?"
Muriel's gaze was resolute as she prepared to burn her life force to forcibly activate the final form of the angels heart.
Just then.
Thump!
A strange throb came from the angels heart once again.
But this was not a warning.
Muriel was slightly stunned, then a look of pleasant surprise erupted in her eyes as she suddenly turned to look down.
"Hmm? This woman is actually still smiling when death is at her doorstep?"
Jase and the others saw this, an ominous premonition rising in their hearts, and they subconsciously followed her gaze.
They saw the Abyssal Condenser, which had been floating quietly on the sea surface, had somehow silently risen into mid-air.
Buzz!
An invisible yet incredibly overbearing black ripple centered on the Abyssal Condenser instantly spread out, directly enveloping everyone within a radius of several thousand meters.
The Abyssal Domain of Supernatural descended.
At this moment, Muriel keenly sensed something was different.
"Someone switched?"
Through the perception of the angels heart, she clearly felt that the calm and rational human consciousness that was originally controlling the Abyssal Condenser had transferred to that little zombie.
In its place was the consciousness of a little girl, full of innocence and curiosity, yet containing a terrifying soul power enough to make gods tremble.
"Can they switch control of the body at any time? What a miraculous ability..."
Muriel marveled inwardly.
At this time, the Twin Paranormal Domain fully unfolded.
Alex took over the body of the Abyssal Condenser, and her terrifying strength as an SS-grade paranormal erupted without reservation.
"What the hell is this?"
Anrak's expression changed drastically within the Ghost Domain.
He discovered in terror that his prideful speed had instantly become incredibly sluggish, as if he were trapped in a viscous swamp.
"My power is draining?"
Not just him, the three Silver Blood Wolf Kings, the three from the Dark Church, and even the two Pigman Sovereigns who were just being arrogant, all felt an inexplicable power of laws pressing down on them, making their movements stiff and their energy circulation sluggish.
However, what made them even more desperate was...
Luke swung the sword in his hand and found himself completely unaffected.
Mikaela flapped her wings and found herself as light as a swallow.
Muriel even felt the surrounding energy cheering, as if this black domain was actively getting close to her.
"A friend-or-foe identification domain?"
Seeing this, Anrak's composure completely collapsed.
Pfft!
Luke didn't care about any of that; taking advantage of the moment the opponent was slowed down, he thrust his sword. Although it was blocked by the two vampires behind, it still opened a large hole in Anrak.
"Everyone, stop!"
Silva the wolf king roared, and everyone from the Dark Faction was forced to stop their attacks, looking at the behemoth below with suspicion and uncertainty.
"What do you mean by this?"
Silva stared fixedly at the Abyssal Condenser, his eyes full of wariness and anger.
"It's fine if you don't join us, but do you actually want to join the Church of Light?"
Such a suppression domain targeting only their Dark Faction made its stance self-evident.
Facing the crowd's questioning, the Abyssal Condenser's massive body swayed slightly.
A crisp yet infinitely majestic little girl's voice rang out in everyone's minds.
"Who said I was joining them?"
"My brother joins wherever he wants to join."
Alex's crisp voice echoed in everyone's minds, carrying a hint of a little girl's unique petulance.
"I simply can't stand you bullying big sis."
"..."
The entire Dark Faction present turned to stone collectively.
Silva the wolf king opened his mouth, looking at the vampire beside him in total confusion.
"Wait, how did it switch people? Wasn't the one just now arrogantly telling us to beat it? How has it become such a little brat now?"
And this tone... "Pretty big sister?"
Anrak rolled his eyes speechlessly, looking at the holy Muriel not far away.
"An evil creature hundreds of times more wicked than us is actually calling an angel 'big sister'? Is this evil creature intentionally playing with us?"
"Let me show you what I'm capable of."
Alex had no time for nonsense with them.
Buzz!
The Abyssal Domain of Supernatural, which was already suppressing everyone, erupted with another strange fluctuation.
"Hmm? Two domains?"
Luke's brows twitched slightly as he keenly sensed the difference in this new power.
The previous domain mainly suppressed the enemies' speed and energy, so what was the function of this domain's ability?
At this moment, the massive Tier 6 Abyssal Condenser, bolstered by Alex's SS-grade source power, began to tremble violently.
That shaking was not fear, but a high-frequency vibration, as if the entire space were resonating with it.
Swish swish swish!
Countless tentacles waved frantically, its form so fast it was just a blur of afterimages.
Then, under everyone's horrified gazes, that blur of afterimages actually split.
Rippp!
Like cell division, two identical Abyssal Condensers suddenly loomed in the sky, emitting the same terrifying aura.
"What kind of move is this?"
Silva's eyes widened, his wolf mouth hanging open.
But this was only the beginning.
Sizzle sizzle.
The dark energy drifting in the air quickly condensed.
In front of Silva, a mass of black mist churned, instantly condensing into a massive Silver Blood Wolf King—a black replica of himself.
In front of Anrak, a dark shadow holding a blood-colored wine glass appeared elegantly.
In front of Jase, a Pigman shadow carrying a pitch-black mace appeared with a sinister grin.
"This..."
Everyone was completely dumbfounded.
Silva hurriedly turned to look at the knowledgeable Skeleton Archbishop.
"Old Skeleton, you're an expert in souls and summoning. Can you tell what the hell this is?"
"Rep... Replication!"
The Skeleton Archbishop's voice was trembling, the ghost fires in his eye sockets flickering wildly.
"He is replicating our bodies; even the aura is exactly the same."
Not just the Dark Faction.
Behind Mikaela and Luke, two black phantoms with six wings on their backs also condensed, emitting a heart-palpitating pressure.
"Strange..."
Alex's somewhat confused voice rang out.
"I actually can't replicate big sister's angels heart?"
In front of Muriel, an exquisite black shadow had formed, identical in appearance and posture, but its chest was empty, lacking that beating angels heart.
Even so, this scene still made everyone present gasp.
What kind of perverted level of ability is this?
Not only did she split herself into two Tier 6s, but she also replicated all fourteen Tier 6 experts present in one go.
Moreover, the aura emanating from every single dark shadow was actually at the solid Rank Six level.
This was equivalent to suddenly having over a dozen more Rank Six thugs.
"Go! Beat all these ugly freaks to the ground!"
Alex gave the command.
Roar, roar, roar!
All the dark shadows let out a roar and charged toward the Dark Faction side like hungry wolves pouncing on their prey.
At the same time, the thousands of tentacles beneath the two Abyssal Condensers shot out like a torrential rain, and combined with the omnipresent Abyssal Gaze, they instantly turned the battlefield into a Nether world.
"Run!"
Anrak made a prompt decision and shrieked.
"This guy is too sinister; with so many Rank Sixes, there's no way to fight."
Even without him saying it, the others had already long since harbored the intention to retreat.
This wasn't a battle at all; it was a one-sided beating.
However, running away wasn't going to be that easy.
"Where do you think you're going?"
Although the dark shadow Muriel didn't have the angels heart, her own combat power was still terrifying.
Holding the dark holy sword, she turned into a streak of light and instantly blocked Anrak, who was trying to flee.
Clang!
Anrak parried in haste and was shaken back repeatedly.
"Damn it!"
Seeing this, Silva wanted to step forward to help, but found himself already surrounded by dense clusters of tentacles.
Vroom!
The two Abyssal Condensers activated Abyssal Gaze simultaneously.
An irresistible mental shock instantly swept across the field.
"Ugh, ah..."
Anrak only felt a sharp pain in his mind, and his spirit fell into a brief trance.
In that fatal instant, the dark shadow Muriel seized the opportunity.
Puchi!
The pitch-black longsword pierced Anrak's chest with pinpoint accuracy, directly skewering his heart core.
"Old Bat!"
Silva and the others were pale with fright; they wanted to rescue him but were held back firmly by countless tentacles, and could only watch helplessly as this scene unfolded.
Anrak snapped out of his trance, and as soon as he opened his eyes, he saw an exquisitely beautiful yet pitch-black face giving him a weird smile.
He slowly lowered his head to look at the longsword stuck in his chest; his life force was draining away frantically.
"No..."
...Meanwhile, outside the battlefield.
A dark mass of troops was approaching.
Randy was followed by hundreds of thousands of orderly Fifth-Order zombie troops, arriving in a grand manner to provide support.
However, when he saw the situation on the battlefield clearly, his raised arm stopped abruptly in mid-air.
"This is... way too fierce, isn't it?"
Randy looked at the tentacles flying all over the sky and the dozen or so Rank Six dark shadows, his eyes full of shock and eagerness.
"Alex, this little girl's ability is actually so terrifying; one Rank Six Abyssal Condenser has actually produced the effect of an entire legion."
"All troops, stand by on the spot."
He did not let the zombie army rush up to cause more chaos.
In a battle of this level, Fifth-Orders going up would just be fodder; it was better to stay on the sidelines and provide support.
His main purpose for coming this time, besides support, was to establish a connection with the Church of Light.
Now that the Duchy of Fernvale has been completely occupied by the Order of Saint George, it is time for the mainstream powers of this world to face their existence.
High in the air, Muriel also noticed this army that had suddenly appeared.
"Hundreds of thousands... of Fifth-Orders?"
Even in the midst of battle, she couldn't help but glance away for a moment, waves of shock rising in her heart.
The angels heart throbbed slightly, and the information it fed back put her somewhat at ease.
Although that army was full of death energy, they didn't have any malice directed at them; they should be in the same situation as that little girl, with human souls inside their bodies.
Especially the middle-aged man leading them; he exuded a convincing majesty, just like a general who had been through many battles.
"It seems to be the power behind that little girl..."
Muriel withdrew her gaze and threw herself back into the final harvest.
The battlefield was already a foregone conclusion.
The Dark Church's side was the most miserable.
The Skeleton Archbishop originally wanted to rely on undead wave tactics to turn the tables, only to find that the dark shadow skeleton on the opposite side was also using Scourge of the Undead.
Moreover, in cooperation with the Abyssal Condenser's tentacles, as soon as an undead flew out, it would be instantly whipped to pieces by a tentacle.
"This damned old skeleton, how is his ability so disgusting!"
Nearby, Jase was being beaten up by his own dark shadow and Luke's dark shadow, while also having to deal with occasional undead sneak attacks, mental shocks, and tentacle lashings; his mental state completely collapsed, and he couldn't help but curse his teammate.
"Ahhh, I'm not reconciled!"
With an unwilling roar, Jase's massive body crashed down.
Following that were Silva, the Skeleton Archbishop... Under the joint strangulation of the Abyssal Condenser, the clone army, and the original three angels, this battle, which was originally evenly matched or even favored the dark side, completely turned into a one-sided slaughter.
As the last vampire Duke turned to ash, the surface of the sea finally returned to tranquility.
Only the two massive Abyssal Condensers remained, still quietly perched in the air, emanating an awe-inspiring aura.
Alex deactivated the Twin Paranormal Domain, and one of the massive Abyssal Condensers dissipated into the air, leaving only the original body with its tentacles still slowly writhing.
The three angels retracted their wings and aura, slowly landing on the sea surface and bowing solemnly to Alex.
"Thank you, Your Excellency, for your assistance."
Muriel's eyes were filled with sincere gratitude.
If this little girl hadn't suddenly intervened and even copied that terrifying legion, today's outcome would likely have been the fall of the three siblings here.
"It's okay, Big Sister."
The zombie controlled by Alex waved its hand, its tone cheerful.
"Those bad guys were too ugly; I couldn't stand the sight of them either."
At this time, Steve's consciousness transferred to a Fifth-Order zombie that had been prepared long ago, and he walked out with large strides.
On the other side, Randy also stationed the army of hundreds of thousands of zombies in the distance and flew over alone, landing in front of everyone.
Feeling the pressure from Randy—which lacked dark aura but was full of iron-blooded slaughter—Luke's expression turned serious.
"May I ask which faction Your Excellency belongs to?"
He asked cautiously.
"We have traveled the continent for many years and seem to have never seen unique existences like you all."
They had human souls, yet could control such a massive army, and even had such powerful monsters as their trump cards.
"We belong to the Order of Saint George."
Randy replied neither humbly nor arrogantly, his voice steady and powerful.
"Order of Saint George?"
Hearing this name, Luke was slightly stunned, and then excitement burst from his eyes.
"Are you the Order of Saint George that has been stirring up a storm in the Werewolf territories recently, taking in and protecting the enslaved human race on a large scale?"
"Correct."
Randy smiled and nodded.
"It seems our reputation has already reached the ears of the Church."
"Of course."
Luke could not hide his excitement.
"Our mission this time actually had two parts: one was to investigate the fluctuations here, and the second was to head to the Duchy of Fernvale by the Pope's order to investigate."
"News came down from above saying that a mysterious force with light in its heart appeared in Fernvale, rescuing countless human compatriots. The Pope specifically instructed us to make contact, and if they are allies, we must treat them with courtesy."
"So that's how it is."
Randy thought to himself.
"Perfect."
"Since that's the case, why don't we discuss this together? We were also planning to formally contact the Church of Light to discuss cooperation."
"I couldn't ask for more."
Luke immediately made the decision.
"Then please follow us back to the Holy Mountain. The Pope will surely be very happy to see you all."
Soon, the group set off on their journey to the Holy Mountain of Light.
Alex stuck to Steve's side like a little shadow.
"Brother Steve, I want to go too."
"Alright, alright, we'll go together."
Steve nodded helplessly but dotingly.
With that, six figures soared into the sky.
Luke and Randy flew at the very front; the two middle-aged men chatted enthusiastically, acting as if they were old friends who had met too late.
They talked about everything from the continental situation to the future of the human race, the atmosphere so harmonious it didn't seem like their first meeting at all.
Meanwhile, the vibe at the back of the group became a bit subtle.
Muriel didn't stay with her brother; instead, she intentionally slowed down and flew alongside Steve and Alex.
Her heterochromatic eyes scanned the zombie controlled by Steve with curiosity.
"Hello, Steve."
Muriel spoke up first, her voice soft, completely lacking the overbearing aura she had on the battlefield when she slew the Abomination with a single sword strike.
"Hello, Your Highness the Saintess."
Steve responded with a hint of confusion.
This girl had such heavy killing intent on the battlefield just now, so why does she seem a bit dazed now?
"Are you all... truly human?"
Muriel blinked and asked bluntly.
"Even though your bodies are monsters, I can clearly feel that deep within your souls, there are very intense and pure human emotions."
"That's right, we are indeed human."
Steve didn't hide it; after all, there was no point in lying in front of the angels heart.
"We used some special methods to achieve the effect of remotely controlling these monster bodies. You could call it a unique kind of magic."
"Impressive."
Muriel praised him sincerely.
"Until now, the primary way for humans to resist fate has been learning magic, but due to talent limitations, their achievements are often limited."
"I didn't expect you to find another way by using the enemy's bodies to fight. It's truly impressive."
Looking at the girl before him, who was full of admiration and as simple as a blank sheet of paper, Steve felt a strange sensation in his heart.
Is this really the same Valkyrie who just unleashed her fallen form and slaughtered everything because of a disagreement?
Along the way, Steve engaged her in casual conversation and found that, aside from being extremely sensitive to evil, this Saintess was a complete airhead when it came to social graces... The Holy Mountain of Light, above the clouds.
After half a day of flying and passing through a thick sea of clouds, a majestic and spectacular white holy city came into view.
It was a massive island floating in mid-air, constructed entirely from pure white holy stone.
Countless spired towers pierced the heavens, and divine radiance cascaded from the edges of the island like waterfalls.
The grand castle at the very center radiated an aura of majesty that inspired awe.
This was the core of light for the entire world, the Holy Mountain.
"So this is the Holy Mountain..."
Randy looked at the scene before him, a flash of appreciation in his eyes.
This scale and momentum certainly showed the foundation of a top-tier power.
The group slowly landed on the broad white jade plaza in front of the castle.
The surrounding flower beds were filled with holy flowers that emitted a faint glow, and the air was filled with a light fragrance that refreshed the spirit.
"Everyone, thank you for the long journey."
Luke turned around and bowed to the group.
"Please rest here for a moment. I will go now to report to the Pope and the Council of Elders. Someone will come to welcome you shortly."
"Thank you for the trouble."
Randy smiled and returned the gesture.
Luke nodded and turned to walk quickly toward the depths of the castle.
Steve and the others sat down on white stone benches by the plaza, waiting while admiring the rare and beautiful scenery.
Holy Mountain of Light, the Pope's Palace.
This was a grand hall built of pure white jade, with countless glowing gems embedded in the dome to simulate a brilliant starry sky.
In the center of the hall, a white feather carpet stretched all the way to the end, beneath a sacred throne symbolizing supreme power.
Seated upon the throne was an angel of peerless beauty and noble temperament.
She wore a robe flowing with starlight; although no wings were visible behind her, the divine pressure that seemed to coexist with heaven and earth proclaimed her unshakable status.
She was the current Pope of the Church of Light, Mikaela.
"How is the investigation going?"
Upon seeing Luke enter, Mikaela's voice sounded cold and majestic, echoing through the hall like a divine oracle.
Luke knelt on one knee, his expression respectful.
"Reporting to the Pope, the investigation is complete. A great terror has indeed emerged from the Malbik Sea, with strength that even surpasses the ordinary Sixth Rank."
"However..."
He paused, his tone becoming somewhat excited.
"It is not an evil entity. Human souls reside within them. Just now, this powerhouse not only refrained from attacking us but also slew eleven dark experts, including those from the Dark Church and the Silver Blood Wolf King, saving both myself and the Saintess."
"Oh?"
Mikaela's eyes, which seemed to contain endless stars, lit up slightly.
"A powerhouse controlled by a human soul? Since they have justice in their heart, there is no need for excessive interference."
Seeing that Luke had not withdrawn, she spoke again.
"Is there something else?"
"Reporting to the Pope."
Luke took a deep breath, suppressing his inner excitement.
"The powerhouse who controls that great terror comes from the Order of Saint George. Furthermore, according to them, the members of the Order of Saint George are all beings who control powerful monsters with human souls."
"At this moment, their representatives have arrived outside the Holy Mountain, hoping to discuss cooperation with the Church."
"What?"
Mikaela suddenly stood up from her throne, her face, which had been unperturbed for ten thousand years, showing an uncontrollable excitement for the first time.
"Order of Saint George? Humans controlling monsters?"
She took a deep breath and quickly regained her composure, but the light in her eyes grew even more intense.
"Immediately, order all elders of the Council of Elders to assemble in the Meeting Hall. Go and invite them to the Meeting Hall; you must treat them with the highest etiquette."
"Yes."
Although Luke was surprised by the Pope's intense reaction, he respectfully obeyed and turned to leave quickly.
Once the doors to the hall were closed again, Mikaela could no longer maintain her cold and aloof demeanor.
Her hands trembled slightly as she took out an ancient scroll made of an unknown material from a hidden pocket close to her body.
The scroll radiated the vicissitudes of time, as if it carried some extremely heavy destiny.
A long, long time ago, the Angel Clan was not confined to the Holy Mountain as they are now.
Back then, they had wings on their backs and soared through the sea of stars; they were a truly powerful race in the universe.
However, endless targeting and hunting caused them to gradually wither away.
To find a way out for their race, the ancestors sacrificed the lives and souls of countless kin to deduce this prophecy.
"A thousand years later, a Visitor from Beyond, clad in a dark body but harboring the fire of light in his heart, shall lead the Angel race to reclaim their glory and once again maintain the order of the world."
"It has been a thousand years..."
Mikaela looked at the familiar script in her hand, a cluster of golden holy fire rising from her palm.
Whoosh!
The ancient scroll turned to ashes in the flames, drifting away with the wind along with that heavy past.
"I have finally waited for this moment."
She straightened her robes and strode toward the Meeting Hall.
Since the person in the prophecy had appeared, the fate of the Church of Light would also reach a turning point.
Holy Mountain Square.
Luke walked over quickly and made a gesturing motion to the group.
"Gentlemen, please follow me to the Meeting Hall; the Pope and the Council of Elders have been waiting for a long time."
Then, he looked at Mikaela and Alex nearby.
"Why don't you take this little sister for a walk? The meeting might be quite dull."
"Yes, brother."
Mikaela walked up to Alex with a smile and took hold of her, the zombie.
"Let's go, Alex. Big sister will take you to see the Holy Mountain's unique Radiant Sea of Flowers, and there are also very delicious Holy Fruits."
"Okay, okay!"
Alex nodded obediently. She wasn't interested in such political meetings anyway, so it was perfect to go play with the pretty sister.
After watching the two leave, the remaining Muriel naturally followed the group.
As the Saintess possessing the angels heart, she was the future core of the Church; she had both the right and the duty to attend a meeting of this level.
Meeting Hall.
This was a solemn and dignified circular hall with a huge round table in the middle, surrounded by twelve seats.
At this time, five elders dressed in white robes with gold trim were already seated.
Randy sensed them secretly and was slightly startled.
The auras of these five elders were as deep as the sea; they were all actually Rank Seven experts.
Was this the foundation of the Church of Light?
"Welcome to the Church of Light, you two."
In the main seat facing the door, Mikaela was already seated.
She looked at the two entering, her voice gentle yet carrying an undeniable majesty.
"I am the Pope, Mikaela."
"I am Randy of the Order of Saint George."
"I am Steve of the Order of Saint George."
The two nodded slightly and introduced themselves.
Hearing the name Steve, Mikaela's calm expression instantly underwent a subtle change.
"Steve?"
She repeated the two words in her mind, her gaze involuntarily falling upon the young man controlling the zombie body.
"A Visitor from Beyond, and his name contains the character for 'heaven'... Could the Savior in the ancestor's prophecy be him?"
Her gaze was too direct and intense, making Steve feel an inexplicable sense of discomfort.
"What's wrong with this Pope? Why is she staring at me?"
Steve grumbled in his heart, but he remained calm on the surface.
"Please be seated, everyone."
Mikaela withdrew her gaze and gestured softly.
Randy and Steve sat on one side of the round table, while Muriel naturally sat in the seat next to Steve.
"I am very glad that you two could represent the Order of Saint George here."
Mikaela spoke first.
"On behalf of the Angel God, I express my heartfelt blessings for humanity's ability to master the power to resist fate."
"Thank you for your kindness, Pope."
Randy took over the conversation and got straight to the point.
"In fact, we have come this time hoping to establish a deep cooperative relationship with your Church. We are well aware of the conduct and philosophy of the Church of Light. In this chaotic world, your Church is one of the few allies that can walk side by side with us."
"Oh?"
Mikaela smiled slightly, leaned forward, and her eyes became sharp.
"Then may I ask you two, what is the philosophy of your Order of Saint George? And what are you fighting for?"
This was a crucial question.
Prophecies aside, real-world allies must have shared values.
Steve fell silent for a moment, memories of that world flashing through his mind before he slowly spoke.
He cleared his throat and said solemnly.
"Our philosophy is: freedom, equality, justice, and the rule of law."
"We fight for peace."
Steve's voice echoed in the hall.
"We have grown accustomed to the wars and suffering of the world, where humans are seen as food by werewolves and blood bags by vampires, and all living things are plunged into misery."
"Therefore, after gaining power, we are determined to wipe out all sources of evil in the world, so that the weak are no longer bullied and justice can be served."
"Though we dwell in bodies of darkness, our hearts are turned toward the light. With thunderous methods, we manifest our desire to save the world."
As Steve spoke, Mikaela's eyes grew brighter and brighter, and she nodded continuously.
This perfectly aligned with the Church's teachings, and was even more radical and thorough than the Church itself.
"Wiping out all evil in the world... dwelling in darkness, hearts turned toward the light..."
The heavy stone in Mikaela's heart finally fell.
Yes, absolutely right. This was the person from the prophecy.
In the time that followed, everyone began to conduct an in-depth discussion on specific situations, cooperation methods, information sharing, and other issues.
On Randy's side, he had already handed over control of his body to a team of top negotiation experts from the Starry Sky Base via a spiritual connection.
For a time, various diplomatic rhetoric, exchange of interests, and strategic deployments poured out of his mouth incessantly, leaving the five elders stunned.
After an unknown amount of time, the general direction was basically finalized.
Mikaela suddenly spoke up, interrupting the discussion of details.
"Muriel."
She looked at the Saintess sitting next to Steve, her tone soft.
"Take His Excellency Steve out for a walk. The scenery of the Holy Mountain is quite nice. It's not good to let him stay cooped up here listening to these dull clauses."
"Huh? Me?"
Muriel was slightly taken aback. She pointed at herself, looking bewildered.
They were in the middle of a meeting; why was she suddenly going for a walk?
"Yes."
Mikaela nodded, her tone leaving no room for doubt.
"The core issues that need to be discussed are mostly settled now. As for the remaining details, His Excellency Randy can stay here and continue the discussion. You two should go out and walk around more."
"..."
Steve was also completely dazed.
What did this mean? Kicking him out? And having the Saintess accompany him?
Although he was somewhat confused, he keenly sensed that this Pope seemed to have some kind of special interest in him.
"In that case, I shall respectfully comply."
Steve stood up. In any case, Randy was responsible for the specific negotiations, remotely controlled by the expert team, so it didn't really matter if he was there or not.
Besides, all the information would eventually be summarized for him, so there was no loss.
"Let's go, Steve."
Although Muriel was puzzled, the Pope's command was absolute.
She obediently stood up and led Steve out of the hall.
Watching the two of them walk away side by side, the majesty on Mikaela's face instantly melted, replaced by a meaningful smile.
She was secretly calculating in her heart.
"The prophecy said he would lead the Angel race... but how? What is the fastest and most stable way to unite?"
Then, she turned her head and looked at Randy, who was still sitting in his seat, his eyes suddenly becoming incomparably sharp.
Fortress, Command Center.
Randy lay comfortably in his chair, holding a steaming cup of Pu'er tea, gently blowing on the froth.
On the large screen in front of him, the scene of the Church of Light's meeting hall was displayed in real-time. Dozens of top negotiation experts were sitting around the console, controlling that zombie body and engaging in a battle of words with the elders of the Angel race.
Randy took a sip of tea, calculating the upcoming clearing plan in his mind.
Since the Church of Light, the largest native power, had already become an ally, then the remaining Werewolves, vampires, and Black Warlocks were just grasshoppers in autumn, unable to jump around for much longer.
Just then, Mikaela's smiling voice came through his ear.
"Alright, is Bishop Randy still there? We can talk about deeper cooperation."
*Pfft!*
Randy almost spat out a mouthful of tea.
Deeper cooperation? Haven't they already signed an offensive and defensive alliance, intelligence sharing, and resource exchange? How much deeper could it get?
He immediately put down his teacup, and his consciousness instantly took over the zombie body located on the Holy Mountain.
Holy Mountain of Light, Meeting Hall.
Randy looked up, his gaze becoming deep again as he looked directly at Mikaela on the main seat.
"I wonder what the Pope means by deeper cooperation? The existing agreements between our two sides should already cover most areas."
Mikaela smiled slightly, her red lips parting as she uttered two words.
"Marriage alliance."
"Cough, cough, cough..."
The five seventh-tier elders nearby, who were originally serious, were instantly shocked into coughing fits by these two words, each staring wide-eyed at their Pope.
Marriage alliance?
Angels and humans? Or with a group of humans who control monsters?
"Lord Pope, this..."
An elder was about to speak but was stopped by Mikaela raising her hand.
Randy was also completely stunned.
As a veteran of America's political games, he naturally knew that marriage alliance was the oldest and most stable method in political maneuvering.
But he never expected that for this kind of cross-species, cross-dimensional cooperation, the other party would actually propose a marriage alliance.
"Pope, are you sure?"
Randy's tone was strange.
"Although Angels and humans are similar in appearance, this species isolation..."
"It is of no consequence."
Mikaela said calmly.
"Although we are Angels and possess Holy Power, in terms of physical structure and genetic sequence, our compatibility with humans is as high as 99.999%."
"In history, examples of Angels falling in love with humans and bearing offspring are not rare; for instance, those legendary demigod heroes, many are descendants of such unions."
"..."
Randy fell silent.
Since there were no physiological issues, the political intent behind this was very clear.
The other party wanted to completely tie the Order of Saint George to the Church of Light's war chariot, or rather, they wanted to completely bind their interests together.
"I wonder, who does the Church of Light plan to use for the marriage alliance?"
Randy asked tentatively.
If it was just some random noble Angel or a member of a branch family, then this so-called marriage alliance would just be a formality.
The smile on Mikaela's lips deepened as she said slowly.
"The Saintess of the Church of Light, Muriel."
"Also... my daughter."
*Boom!*
These words directly resounded throughout the meeting hall.
The five elders almost slid off their chairs.
Using the Saintess for a marriage alliance? She was the successor to the next Pope, and a peerless genius who possessed the talent of the Heart of Angels, which was rare even in ten thousand years.
Randy's expression also changed.
This was a true dilemma.
The other party had shown the greatest sincerity, even wagering the entire future of the Church.
For a marriage partner of this level, if America just sent some child of a high official or a so-called young talent, it wouldn't match the other party's status and talent at all.
When that time came, let alone stabilizing the relationship, it might instead cause estrangement or even resentment between the two sides because of the inequality in status.
"This is trouble..."
Randy quickly screened suitable candidates in his mind, only to sadly discover that in the entire base, besides Steve, no one was qualified to suppress this Saintess.
"Pope."
Randy weighed his words and said slowly.
"I think the two sides might not necessarily need a marriage alliance to stabilize our relationship. Our alliance is built on shared ideals and interests, which is already firm enough. Furthermore, if I may be blunt, we do not currently have anyone who is a match for the Saintess."
"Is that so?"
Mikaela seemed to have anticipated his refusal. She chuckled and looked at Randy with burning eyes.
"I think that Steve is quite good."
"..."
Randy was instantly stunned.
Good grief, so this is what she was waiting for.
He was wondering why the Pope had been staring at Steve since she entered; it turned out she had been planning to target Steve all along?
"No wonder she sent Steve away; she wanted to test the waters with me first?"
Randy smiled bitterly in his heart. To be fair, as the controller of the Portal, the giver of souls, and America's only fourth-tier human, Steve was more than a match for an Angel Saintess.
But the problem was, Steve was the cornerstone and hope for the future of the entire America civilization.
How could such a core of cores be sent out for a marriage alliance?
If something happened to him over at the Angel race, or if he was kept under house arrest by a honey trap, then America would be finished.
"I'm sorry, Pope."
The smile on Randy's face faded, and his tone became extremely firm.
"Steve's status among us is extremely special; he is our soul figure. We will absolutely not allow him to be in any environment with even a trace of danger. The matter of marriage alliance is of great importance, and I must decline."
Hearing this, Mikaela not only didn't get angry but instead showed an expression that said 'as I expected'.
"Why is Bishop Randy in such a hurry to refuse? Why not go and ask for his opinion?"
Mikaela put away her smile, and her expression became solemn.
"Actually, let me tell you the truth."
"Our Angel race was once a powerful race that traversed the universe and established a brilliant civilization in the galaxy. It's just that times have changed, and we encountered a great disaster, leading us to be confined to this tiny planet."
As she spoke, she looked into the distance with a deep gaze.
"Our ancestors left behind a secret: after a thousand years, a visitor from beyond the heavens will descend."
"That person's name is Steve."
"The prophecy says he will once again lead the Angel race out of this narrow world, rebuild our glory, and protect the peace of the world."
"So..."
Mikaela looked directly at Randy.
"We are willing for the entire race to follow Steve. This is not just a marriage alliance, but a submission."
"What?"
The five elders nearby were completely dumbfounded, their mouths hanging wide open.
"Your Holiness, is... is this true? Did the Pope's Secret Records really record this?"
Only the successor of each generation could read the Pope's Secret Records. They never dreamed that such a shocking revelation was hidden within.
"It is absolutely true."
Mikaela nodded without changing her expression.
Although she had slightly modified the content of the prophecy, the core meaning remained unchanged, so it wasn't exactly a lie.
"..."
Randy was completely speechless.
A thousand-year prophecy? Mentioning him by name? And the entire race must follow him?
Wasn't this script a bit too fantastical?
But on second thought, Steve's journey so far was indeed extraordinary.
After obtaining the Portal, he conquered the zombie World, then led them to conquer the Paranormal World and the Fantasy World... these signs indeed looked like a savior script blessed with great fortune.
"If this is true, then this is a powerful vassal race delivering itself to our doorstep..."
Randy weighed the pros and cons in his mind and finally sighed.
"This matter is too significant; I cannot decide for him. I will relay your words to Steve, and he will decide for himself."
Holy Mountain, Garden Path.
At this moment, Steve had no idea that an inter-species blind date had been arranged for him.
He and Muriel were strolling along a path covered with Radiant Flowers. A gentle breeze blew, bringing waves of floral fragrance.
"Steve, do you also think that those evils deserve to be killed?"
Muriel walked ahead, occasionally looking back, her heterochromatic pupils sparkling with excitement.
"I believe that unless the source is completely eradicated, tragedies will always repeat themselves."
"You actually think the same as I do! I was so happy when I heard you say those words in the meeting hall just now."
Looking at the young girl before him, who was so excited about the concept of justice, Steve smiled.
"Something like that. Evil must be completely uprooted; that is an inherent truth."
"Mhm, that's the phrase—evil must be completely uprooted!"
Muriel nodded vigorously, her gaze toward Steve becoming increasingly full of admiration.
The two of them continued to walk and talk, discussing everything from their views on dark creatures to their personal experiences. The atmosphere was unexpectedly harmonious.
Reality.
The first ray of morning light pierced through the thin mist and shone onto the windowsill of the base dormitory.
Steve's main body slowly opened its eyes and stretched.
Although he had been distracted controlling the zombie over there, his main body should start taking Alex for a check-up.
He pushed open his door and happened to see the door of the adjacent room open as well.
Alex walked out, rubbing her sleepy eyes. Her large, spiritual eyes brightened the moment she saw Steve.
"Good morning, Big Brother Steve."
As an SS-grade Paranormal, Alex's Spiritual Power was already strong enough to easily perform dual-threaded operations.
There was absolutely no pressure in controlling a zombie to accompany Mikaela while shopping and eating fruit in the Fantasy World while remaining awake in the real world.
"Morning, Alex."
Steve smiled and patted her head.
"Let's go. I'll take you to Old George's place for a physical check-up and deliver the blueprints and data we just got to them while we're at it."
"Okay."
Alex obediently took Steve's hand.
The two of them walked side by side toward the Biological Research Institute.
Inside the Biological Research Institute, the lights were currently blazing.
Since everyone had consumed the Evolution Potion, this group of science madmen seemed to have opened the door to a new world. Their energy was terrifyingly abundant; they didn't need sleep at all and were immersed in the ocean of genetics and technology as if possessed.
"I wonder how excited the neural development data I brought this time will make them..."
Steve chuckled inwardly and quickened his pace.
Under the bright shadowless lamp, George Cooper was focusing intently on a genetic slice under a microscope.
Hearing footsteps from the door, he subconsciously looked up. Upon seeing it was Steve, his eyes instantly burst with brilliance.
He knew that this young man never visited without a reason; every time he came to the Research Institute, it was bound to be with something good enough to cause an earthquake in the scientific community.
"Steve."
George Cooper rubbed his hands excitedly and hurried forward to meet him, his eyes full of anticipation.
"Could it be... again?"
Steve smiled and nodded, taking out a thick stack of documents and handing them over.
"The complete set of formulas and preparation processes for the 'Neural Potential Development Potion.' Old George, this should be very useful for you and your team."
"Neural Potential Development?"
George Cooper's hands trembled slightly as he took the documents. As a titan of biology, he knew all too well the weight of those words.
This not only meant a leap in human brain development but also a qualitative change in Spiritual Power. For the current America, which needed to control MC Creatures through Spiritual Power, this was practically a strategic-level divine skill.
"Good, wonderful."
George Cooper quickly tucked the documents into his robe like a precious treasure, only then noticing the little girl standing obediently beside Steve.
The little girl was as delicate as carved jade, her large eyes blinking. She was so cute one would want to pinch her cheeks, but the aura she inadvertently emitted gave him a slight sense of trepidation.
"Who is this little child?"
George Cooper asked in a lowered voice.
"Didn't Uncle Randy mention her to you?"
Steve patted Alex's head and introduced her.
"This is the sister I just took in from the Paranormal World, Alex. She is also... a core combat force that America needs to focus on training."
"Alex, call him Grandpa George."
"Hello, Grandpa George!"
Alex called out sweetly, her voice crisp and pleasant.
"Ah, good, good, good!"
George Cooper beamed from ear to ear, nodding repeatedly.
After a few pleasantries, George Cooper turned around, eager to study the new formula.
"Wait, Old George."
Steve called out to him.
"Besides delivering the documents, there's one more thing I'd like to trouble you with. Alex's physical condition is quite special, so I'd like you to help perform a comprehensive examination."
"Oh?"
George Cooper stopped in his tracks and re-examined Alex.
He solemnly handed the precious documents to an assistant nearby for safekeeping, then beckoned to the two of them.
"Follow me to Laboratory Number One."
Laboratory Number One.
The most precise testing equipment of the Research Institute was housed here.
George Cooper pointed to a transparent cylindrical chamber in the center that looked like it was from a sci-fi movie.
"Go ahead, Alex. Just stand inside, and we'll do a full-body check-up for you."
"Mhm."
Before the words even finished, George Cooper felt a blur before his eyes.
Whoosh!
Alex, who was originally several meters away, had instantly appeared inside the chamber.
"This..."
George Cooper's pupils constricted as he turned to look at Steve, his eyes filled with shock.
Steve simply nodded calmly without much explanation.
George Cooper took a deep breath, suppressed the horror in his heart, and began skillfully operating the console to start the detection program.
During the wait.
Steve found a chair and sat down, taking out the Paranormal Creature Taming Route Map from his system space to begin browsing.
"Let me see how I can make Alex even stronger..."
He carefully read through the training plan for paranormals.
"Hmm... devouring paranormal cores of S-rank or higher will do. No attribute restrictions, and the more the better."
Steve nodded slightly.
"This makes it much simpler. Every paranormal creature has a different path to becoming stronger; for instance, the satyr needs to absorb emotions."
Turning past Alex's chapter, the content recorded afterward made Steve's eyes light up.
This roadmap not only included the advancements of known paranormal creatures but actually recorded how to use MC Creatures to devour paranormal cores, thereby evolving into entirely new evil objects.
Steve's gaze swept quickly across the page, finally stopping on several MC Creature names.
Cat: Absorbs SS-rank Mental/Agility-type paranormal core
Phantom: Absorbs SS-rank Dream-type paranormal core
Wither: Absorbs SSS-rank Rule-type core -> void dominator
"void dominator?"
Seeing this name, Steve immediately felt that it must be incredibly powerful.
Looking at the conditions again: an SSS-rank Rule-type core.
*Hiss.*
Steve sucked in a breath of cold air. An SSS-rank core? Where on earth would he find such a thing?
The Twin Magic Mirror had sacrificed several evil objects and spent ten years planning just to reach that height. Could there be other hidden paranormals in the Paranormal World also carrying out godhood plans?
"To truly reach SSS-rank, conventional methods definitely won't work."
Steve rubbed his chin in contemplation.
"It seems I'll have to have them keep a close eye out over there to see if any paranormal is making a big move, or..."
A bold idea surfaced in his mind.
"What if I cultivate one myself?"
"Anyway, paranormals aren't human, and there's no burden of ethics or morality. As long as I don't sacrifice humans and just let them devour each other—raising them like venomous insects to produce an SSS-rank—it seems feasible."
"Ding, testing complete."
At that moment, the instrument's notification tone interrupted Steve's thoughts.
George Cooper walked over with a printed report, handing it to Steve with a complex expression.
"All physical indicators are normal, one could even say perfect. The only thing is the energy reaction within her body..."
"She is..."
George Cooper hesitated.
"It's nothing."
Steve took the report, glanced at it, and said indifferently.
"Just an ordinary little girl who inherited the full strength of an SS-rank paranormal."
"..."
The corner of George Cooper's mouth twitched violently.
SS-rank paranormal strength? Ordinary little girl?
Do you have some kind of misunderstanding regarding the word 'ordinary'? This level of strength is among the top-tier combat forces in all of America.
The cabin door opened, and Alex came skipping out.
"Brother Steve, am I sick?"
"No, you're very healthy."
Steve smiled and took her hand.
"Let's go. Old George is busy, and we still need to head to the paranormal Research Institute."
"Goodbye, Grandpa George!"
"Ah, take care, Alex..."
Watching the two of them leave, George Cooper shook his head, sighing that the younger generation was to be feared, before his eyes instantly became fanatical.
He turned and rushed toward the depths of the lab.
"Everyone assemble! Tonight, the Neural Potential Development Potion must be mastered."
zombie World, Paranormal Research Institute.
Compared to the Biological Research Institute's clean and bright atmosphere, this place appeared somewhat more gloomy and mysterious, with containers sealing various paranormal limbs or cores placed everywhere.
Director Harry was buried in a pile of data, recording something.
"Harry."
Steve walked in and placed the roadmap for paranormal creature training directly on the desk.
"This is the latest training plan. Have a look."
Harry picked up the materials and flipped through a few pages, his eyes growing wider and wider.
"Cats? Phantoms? These MC Creatures can actually evolve by devouring cores?"
He looked at Steve excitedly.
"If this is true, our tactical system will be greatly enriched!"
"Fine! I'll arrange for people to test it immediately."
Harry was a man of action and immediately shouted to the assistant beside him.
"Go, have the MC Logistics Department send over a few cats."
"Also, go to the warehouse and get that mental-type paranormal core numbered S-003. Although it's not SS-rank, this cat is just an ordinary cat, so let's test the waters with an S-rank first."
"Yes, sir."
Soon, a golden-furred, elegant MC Leopard Cat was brought into a special bulletproof glass room in the lab.
Steve and Alex stood outside the glass wall, watching quietly.
A researcher carefully operated a mechanical arm to present an S-rank paranormal core emitting a faint blue light in front of the Leopard Cat.
The mental fluctuations emitted by that paranormal core caused the surrounding air to distort slightly.
The soldier controlling the Leopard Cat watched as it saw the core.
"Meow..."
It gave a low growl and suddenly pounced, swallowing the core—which was half the size of its head—in one gulp.
*Gulp.*
The moment the core was swallowed, the alarm in the lab suddenly blared.
"Energy reaction is rising sharply!"
Inside the special bulletproof glass room, the Leopard Cat that had swallowed the S-rank core was undergoing a paranormal transformation.
However, to everyone's surprise, its body did not undergo any obvious physical changes; it remained that golden, elegant figure. Only its eyes, which were originally emerald green, now became as deep as an abyss.
"How is it? What do you feel?"
Harry immediately connected to the communicator to ask the soldier controlling the Leopard Cat.
"Reporting sir, there is no physical discomfort."
The soldier's slightly excited voice came through the communicator.
"It just feels like that core wasn't digested, but rather integrated into my consciousness. It's like a new organ has grown, and I can mobilize its abilities at will."
"Try it out."
Harry's eyes lit up.
"Yes!"
The Leopard Cat inside the glass room suddenly opened its mouth.
*Swish, swish, swish!*
The cat's mouth, originally only the size of a coin, instantly split open to an exaggerated angle. Countless pitch-black, tiny tentacles shot out from within, dancing wildly in the air. They instantly entangled and shredded the test dummy in front of it before retracting back into its mouth at extreme speed.
The cat's mouth closed, and it returned to being that harmless little kitten, even licking its paws.
"Hiss, this level of concealment is incredible."
The surrounding researchers nodded in amazement; this was a perfect assassination weapon.
"Not bad."
Steve nodded with satisfaction. Since the experiment was a success, the rest could be left for Harry to handle.
"Let's go, Alex. Let's go home."
Steve took Alex's hand and turned to leave.
Just as they reached the entrance of the institute, they saw Randy rushing over in a hurry, a meaningful smile hanging on his face.
"Steve!"
Randy shouted from a distance.
Steve introduced him.
"Alex, this is your Grandpa Randy."
"Grandpa Randy."
Alex called out sweetly.
"Ah, Alex is such a good girl."
Randy smiled and patted Alex's little head, then looked at Steve, the smile on his face deepening.
"Steve, why are you still hanging around here? Don't you care about the big event over there?"
"Uncle Randy, aren't you also not keeping an eye on things in the meeting room?"
Steve smiled helplessly.
"What's wrong? You rushed over in such a hurry; is there something big happening?"
"Of course it's something big, a massive event."
Randy leaned in mysteriously.
"Steve, I have a method that can instantly give America countless top-tier combatants, even stronger than Alex's ability. Do you want to hear it?"
"Oh?"
Steve's interest was immediately piqued.
"What method? Even more abnormal than Alex's duplication ability?"
One should know that Alex could directly duplicate over a dozen Tier 6 combatants, but it was only temporary. If this was even more powerful, how exaggerated would it be?
Randy didn't answer directly, but said meaningfully.
"The Church of Light proposed to completely tie themselves to our Order of Saint George, even willing to follow us with their entire clan."
"But..."
He intentionally trailed off.
"The prerequisite is a political marriage."
Hearing this, Steve didn't even need to guess to know why Randy had come looking for him.
"Uncle Randy..."
Steve's mouth twitched.
"You don't want me to enter a political marriage, do you?"
"How could it be me who wants you to go?"
Randy immediately waved his hand righteously.
"Am I that kind of person?"
Steve breathed a sigh of relief and teased with a smile.
"That's good then. I thought you were going to sell me off for equipment, Uncle Randy."
"However."
Randy's tone shifted, a mischievous look appearing on his face.
"It was Pope Mikaela who specifically named you for the marriage."
"..."
The air suddenly went quiet for a few seconds.
"Specifically named me?"
Steve pointed at his own nose, looking completely bewildered.
After Alex, who was nearby, realized what was happening, her face filled with excitement and her eyes sparkled.
"Wow! Brother Steve is getting married? I want wedding candy!"
"Don't talk nonsense."
Steve lightly tapped her small head in annoyance.
Alex clutched her head and giggled foolishly, completely unbothered.
"Then... who is the marriage partner on the other side?"
Steve asked.
"The Saintess of the Church of Light, Muriel."
Randy said seriously.
"She is also the biological daughter of Pope Mikaela."
Then, he told Steve everything that had happened in the meeting room, including the prophecy that spanned a thousand years.
"A thousand-year prophecy? It accurately guessed my name?"
After hearing it, Steve felt a chill run down his spine.
This wasn't some simple coincidence. A thousand years ago, his great-great-grandfather hadn't even been born. How could the angels here predict his arrival?
"This matter is too strange."
Steve's brow furrowed.
"So I have to go back and ask clearly. Uncle Randy, stop grinning like that; this isn't that simple."
"I know."
Randy patted his shoulder.
"That's why I said I'd let you decide. But if that prophecy is true and the Angel Clan is really willing to follow you, it would definitely be a massive boost for our America. Consider it yourself."
"And since they could predict you, it means the prophecy isn't wrong. If leading the angels back to the universe later is also correct, then our America will likely stand in the universe as well."
Thinking of this, Randy was also excited. Truly stepping into the universe.
"Alright, I'll go back and ask."
Steve nodded, quickening his pace toward home while holding Alex's hand, while simultaneously sinking most of his consciousness into the Fantasy World.
Fantasy World, Holy Mountain Garden Path.
Steve was walking side-by-side with Muriel.
Just now, most of Steve's consciousness had been in the real world talking to Randy, causing his body here to remain silent, simply following Muriel.
"Steve, why have you stopped talking?"
Muriel stopped and turned around to look at him in confusion.
"Are you tired from walking?"
Steve came back to his senses. Looking at the pure-hearted Saintess before him, he didn't know how to start for a moment.
"Um..."
Steve chose his words carefully and asked tentatively.
"Are you the Pope's daughter?"
Muriel wasn't surprised that her identity had been discovered; she just nodded as if it were natural.
"Yes, why?"
"The Pope proposed in the meeting just now that the Church of Light and the Order of Saint George should enter a political marriage."
Steve said while observing her expression.
"A political marriage?"
Muriel tilted her head, looking adorably confused.
"Why a marriage? Didn't the talk go well just now? It shouldn't need to be so troublesome, right?"
In her simple worldview, as long as everyone had the same goal of fighting Evil Spirits, such political tactics were completely redundant.
"True."
Steve nodded.
"But your mother insisted. She feels that only this way can the relationship between the two sides be completely solidified."
"Oh, since it's Mother's decision, then anything is fine."
Muriel didn't show any resistance; instead, she acted like a good girl.
"Then I'll go ask Mother which sister is going to the marriage."
After saying that, she turned to walk back.
After a few steps, noticing Steve hadn't followed, she stopped and looked back.
"Why aren't you moving?"
Steve looked into her clear, heterochromatic eyes, sighed, and said slowly.
"It's you."
"Eh?"
Muriel's expression froze slightly, then turned into shock as she pointed at her own nose.
"Me? Mother wants me to enter the marriage? How could that be..."
Seeing her look of disbelief, Steve started walking, passing her toward the Meeting Hall.
"Um, wait."
Muriel snapped out of it and hurriedly jogged to catch up.
She ran to Steve's side, tilting her head and asking curiously.
"If I go to the marriage, what about the Order of Saint George? Who are you sending for the marriage?"
Although she didn't know why her mother would make such a strange arrangement, as a good girl who had been obedient since childhood, she subconsciously felt her mother must have a deep reason. If there was to be a marriage, she had to know who the partner was, right?
Steve didn't answer immediately but continued walking for a few more steps.
Only when they were almost at the entrance of the hall did he stop and speak a single word slowly.
"Me."
"..."
This time, Muriel was completely stunned in place.
She stared blankly at the back of the figure gradually moving away, her mind seemingly jammed.
Steve?
And me?
Marriage?
"Hey, hey, hey, wait!"
Muriel chased after him again. This time her face was even redder, and her tone carried a hint of unprecedented panic and shyness.
"Wh... why is it us?"
"You are the Saintess of the Church of Light, with a high status."
Steve analyzed calmly as he walked.
"My position in the Order of Saint George... well, is also roughly at the core level. And we are of similar age and equal status. I suppose that's what the Pope was considering."
"Similar age?"
Muriel blinked, her focus suddenly shifting.
"Then how old are you, Steve?"