Chapter 650: Storms of Sudden Change

A bombshell report spread across the Empire within half a day: "Elder Bu Oyang embezzled tens of millions of Gold Shield funds, covered up scandals by forging ledgers, even ordered several Legendary Peak strongmen to assault Lei En, the Chairman, opened the Abyssal Gate, and after the crime was exposed fled, whereabouts unknown."

In the days that followed, the capital's situation shifted dramatically.

"Several Naiser elders confessed, and the supervisory group reported the situation to the Supreme Council."

"The Supreme Council rebuked the Naiser Wizard, ordering that those involved in the embezzlement must return the stolen funds within five years; during this period their rights are stripped, and anyone who has not repaid by the deadline will be expelled from Naiser Fu Kong Cheng and expelled from the Empire."

"Kro Nomans, in the name of the elder council, deeply apologizes to the Supreme Council and the Empire's populace."

"The Justice Church will soon hold a public trial of Elder Desade."

"The Naiser supervisory group completed its first financial audit; the Consul delivered a speech, stating that henceforth they will continue to strictly exercise the supervisory group's authority, eradicating any black hands reaching toward Naiser Fu Kong Cheng."

A flood of news arrived one after another, leaving people dazzled.

Anyone with some knowledge of Imperial politics can read between the lines of these newspapers and see the situation; the ownership of Naiser Fu Kong Cheng has already been settled.

In this contest for Naiser, the Mo Du faction achieved a total victory, and Duke Hong Shi was utterly defeated.

Naiser is not merely a floating city; it symbolizes the throne that governs the Empire and is the holy site of countless Naiser‑affiliated Wizards, an undisputed spiritual leader. Now, with the disappearance of Augulevi Master, Naiser has plummeted at a pace beyond expectations—both its power and reputation have collapsed dramatically within months.

The rise of the Mo Du faction seems inevitable.

The Empire's heavens have changed!

Amid these astonishing reports, there is a less conspicuous matter mixed in.

"The Empire's renowned performing artist Marquise Ilaysa, to spread the Longhaired Lady's doctrine, recruit followers, and promote Phonographs and Cameras, will launch a three‑year Imperial tour. For this, Marquise Ilaysa steps down as President of the Empire's Art Association, and the title passes to Earl Dong Ting Bo Ju Viola Silverleaf as the new President."

Some people familiar with the Beauty and Goodness Church were shocked by the news.

The believers within the Beauty and Goodness Church also could not comprehend.

The President of the Empire's Art Association is usually the Pope of the Beauty and Goodness Church; Marquise Ilaysa is at the height of her prime, and in fact is a destruction sorcerer who can live two thousand years—she is only a little over four hundred years old, so why did she suddenly relinquish the papal throne?

Many know that Viola is Lei En's partner, but that still doesn't add up.

Even though Lei En's reputation now shines like the sun at its zenith, what does that have to do with the Beauty and Goodness Church? Ilaysa's husband is a Saint Rank transcendent, a Chosen One of the Longhaired Lady; although his status is far below that of the Empire's Triple‑God Church and not comparable to a Holy Soul Wizard, it is not enough to make him abdicate in fear of Lei En.

There must be a secret unknown to outsiders hidden within this.

Marlinge Manor.

Another exceptionally lively evening, guests arrived in formal attire, gathering in small groups to whisper; on their faces complex expressions could not be hidden—confusion, doubt, and astonishment.

Tonight is neither a salon nor a banquet.

Most participants are members of the Empire's Art Association—deacons, priests, artists, painters, singers, dancers, photographers—almost all of whom are followers of the Longhaired Lady.

Beautiful maidservants streamed out fine wine and delicacies; the hall resonated with soothing music, seemingly no different from past salons, yet the guests sensed an unusual atmosphere—no longer the previous seductive ambience nor the alluring arrangements, but a tone of propriety and seriousness.

Most importantly, a message was received half a day ago.

Marlinge Manor has changed ownership.

The invitation they received had the same format as before, but the signatory had changed—not Marquise Ilaysa any longer, but Countess Viola and Chairman Lei En.

This most luxurious and beautiful manor in the capital welcomed two new owners.

Upon arrival, the guests immediately noticed that Marlinge Manor's guards had been replaced by the Empire‑renowned Extreme Warrior; only a portion of the former transcendent guards remained, and over a hundred servants were half dismissed, seemingly after a great purge.

What exactly happened to Marquise Ilaysa?

The mid‑to‑upper‑level believers of the Church were baffled; moments later, a young man and woman entered the hall—Lei En and Viola. Marquise Ilaysa walked alongside them, her face bearing an elegant smile, showing no sign of anything amiss.

The guests bowed in succession.

Most eyes focused on Lei En.

The tall young man, with a handsome face bearing a faint smile, eyes bright, posture upright, even at the banquet wore fitted mithril light armor, a striking blood‑red cloak draped behind him; his style clashed with the surrounding gentlemen and nobles, appearing somewhat improper.

Yet no one dared to look down on him, nor show any hint of unusual emotion.

This transcendent of commoner origin, whose illustrious reputation is widely known, caused the Naiser elder council to shrink from twelve to eight, with three temporarily stripped of authority; it can be said he single‑handedly eliminated half of the Naiser elder council.

Details of that attack from a few days ago have also gradually spread.

Four Legendary Peak strongmen joined forces to besiege, two Naiser elders covertly directed the battle, and they were not unknown figures; Lei En killed five of them and captured one alive—truly unbelievable.

After this battle, Lei En's reputation as the top figure beneath the Holy Soul was further solidified; no one dares to doubt him any longer.

Some even believe Lei En's power has approached the Saint Rank!

For such a scorching‑hot figure, who would dare to point out minor improprieties in his attire? Not even a private chuckle is permitted.

Everyone instead feels this is natural; true strongmen act freely, showcasing heroic bearing.

"Having met Chairman Lei En."

"The Earl of Glamorgan is truly admirable."

"The name of Duke Augustus has long been known to me; today I finally witnessed the duke's grandeur with my own eyes—truly an Imperial hero."

Most people were the first to bow to Lei En, a stream of flattering voices continuously rose.

Of course, the guests did not forget the two ladies, calling out: "President." "Having met the Marquise." Yet their enthusiasm was not as great as when bowing to Lei En.

Lei En raised his hand and pressed it down, and the hall fell silent at once.

"Everyone, welcome to Marlinge Manor as guests."

He spoke softly, his gaze sweeping over the Longhaired Lady's followers, among whom were several Imperial senators and other prominent figures, yet they all listened attentively as he smiled and said, "Tonight I am only half a host; I have invited you here because Countess Viola and Marquise Ilaysa will announce something important."

The guests' expressions varied as they turned toward the two beautiful ladies.

Marquise Ilaysa, in a splendid long dress, stepped forward two paces; today she wore a light makeup, not as dazzlingly beautiful as usual, appearing somewhat plain.

"Followers of the Lady, colleagues, friends, and seekers of art."

Ilaysa's slightly hoarse voice rang through the hall as she said, "You all should know that, thanks to the promotion of Phonographs and Cameras, the number of the Lady's followers has surged in recent years, thanks to Chairman Lei En's inventions and President Viola's management."

"As the head of the Church, I am deeply moved and somewhat ashamed. I have been pondering how to use this great opportunity to contribute my strength to the Lady."

"Therefore, the three‑year Imperial tour has been arranged; I will travel to every city in the Empire, using song and dance to spread the Lady's doctrine, awakening people's appreciation of beauty and longing for love."

"If this journey proceeds smoothly, my tour will not be limited to the Empire nor to three years; it may be extended far into the future until I am satisfied."

"You all have probably heard of this as well."

Iliesa paused.

Seeing the guests below nod slowly, she fell silent for a few seconds before continuing: "During the touring plan, I will be away from Nuosiruier for a long time; the Empire Art Association cannot be leaderless, so I resign the presidency, and Viola will succeed me."

"At the same time, I propose that the Pontiff's position be handed over to Viola as well."

A murmur spread through the hall.

Although people had their guesses, hearing Mrs Iliesa herself announce the relinquishment of the Pontiff's seat still shocked them.

The strength and influence of the Beauty and Goodness Church are far inferior to those of the Empire Three Gods Church.

Longhaired Lady also cannot match those three powerful deities.

Nevertheless, it is a church with tens of millions of followers; the Pontiff's position is illustrious, wielding great authority, and it is in a rapid ascent. With the spread of Phonographs and Cameras, Longhaired Lady's followers will increase, and the Beauty and Goodness Church's influence will grow accordingly.

The pursuit of beauty, love, and art is human nature.

The Beauty and Goodness Church has enormous potential; unsurprisingly, its influence will climb rapidly over the next few decades, with the prospect of becoming the Empire's fourth largest church.

There are myriad heavenly deities, and more than twenty benevolent gods can be openly worshipped within the Empire.

However, at present only Longhaired Lady has the chance to elevate her status.

For a church with such boundless prospects, Mrs Iliesa finally became Pontiff, yet she abandons power at the crucial moment, which is truly incomprehensible.

"Your Pontifical Majesty, please think carefully!"

Some followers loyal to Mrs Iliesa loudly urged her.

"The church needs Your Pontifical Majesty to sit in; without your years of leadership we could not have reached this point. You cannot depart as victory approaches."

"Indeed!"

"Your Pontifical Majesty, please withdraw that notion; the Empire Art Association can temporarily be managed by President Viola, and after your tour you may resume the Pontiff's duties."

Many followers offered counsel, hoping Mrs Iliesa would change her mind.

These people constitute the core of the Beauty and Goodness Church in Nuosiruier; they have followed Iliesa for years, are fiercely loyal, have become accustomed to a Saint Rank Destruction Sorcerer presiding over the church, and fear losing their status should Iliesa depart.

Lei En silently recorded the faces and names of this group.

He stared expressionlessly.

Mrs Iliesa gave no response to the pleas, but upon hearing them she shook her head resolutely.

Although she maintained an elegant smile and dignified bearing, a few perceptive observers could still detect an unspeakable helplessness and resentment in her eyes.

Clearly this was not Mrs Iliesa's true intention.

Forcing the Pontiff to abdicate by coercion is a rarity in Nuosiruier; only a handful could manage it, and one stands before us.

Those who had urged so strongly finally sensed the trouble, and their voices gradually lowered.

Soon, no one spoke in the hall any longer; the atmosphere grew oppressive.

Previously loyal followers of Iliesa bowed their heads, daring not meet Lei En's gaze, silent as cold cicadas, fearing to anger this unassailable powerhouse. Even Mrs Iliesa dared not defy Lei En's will; if she offended him today, how could she survive in the Imperial Capital thereafter?

"I appreciate everyone's goodwill."

Mrs Iliesa stepped forward to defuse the situation, her tone complex: "Everyone knows Viola's capabilities; whether in corporate management or propagating doctrine, she far surpasses me. I believe under Viola's leadership the Beauty and Goodness Church will surely thrive. I wholeheartedly support Viola's guidance of the church, to assist and help her, and better serve the lady."

The words sounded polished, yet everyone could tell they were insincere.

"Most importantly, the lady has already approved my request, supporting Viola's appointment as Pontiff," Iliesa's statement dropped like a heavy bomb.

All present were Longhaired Lady's followers; even the gods have spoken, who dares oppose now?

Amid the uncertain atmosphere, Mrs Iliesa bowed and saluted Viola:

"I have seen Your Pontifical Majesty."

Her bow sealed the decision.

The guests in the hall, realizing nothing could change, also bowed toward Viola, chanting: "I have seen Your Pontifical Majesty."

Viola had remained silent from the start.

Only now did she step forward slowly, her exquisite face bearing a hint of modesty, lacking any triumphant swagger; she gently raised her hand, and her melodious, clear voice rang in the guests' ears: "Ladies and gentlemen, please rise."

"Thank you, Mrs Iliesa, for your noble conduct."

"Thank you, lady, for your endorsement."

"Most importantly, I must thank everyone for their support…" Viola's gaze swept the crowd as she began her first address as Pontiff.

Her message was clear: to soothe hearts, she would not launch sweeping reforms merely because she was newly appointed, nor would she punish those who had opposed her; everything would remain as before. The Beauty and Goodness Church's sole current goal is to devote itself to spreading doctrine, attracting more followers, and strengthening the lady's divine power.

The followers below felt a slight relief.

Especially the mid‑to‑upper echelons who had once been loyal to Iliesa breathed a quiet sigh of relief, then their minds raced, pondering how to align themselves with the new Pontiff to gain higher status.

After the brief speech, the hall's atmosphere returned to a relaxed tone.

Viola mingled among the guests, soothing each of the Beauty and Goodness Church's senior leaders and prominent followers.

Lei En watched with a cold gaze; Viola performed admirably.

All guests who spoke with her showed a marked improvement in mood; some shed hostility, some were ecstatic, and others offered high praise, fervently pledging loyalty to her.

Tonight's banquet was merely an initial announcement, and it proceeded smoothly.

In a few days, Viola will be formally crowned Pontiff at the Empire Art Association headquarters, which is Longhaired Lady's temple, under the lady's own witness.

Viola has labored for years and finally reached this step.

Lei En sincerely feels glad for her.

Some are happy, and naturally some are disappointed. Mrs Iliesa has quietly departed; Marlinge Manor is no longer her home, having been transferred for 300,000 Gold Shields to Lei En and Viola. She initiated the transfer, not at Lei En's request.

Lei En guessed Iliesa's intentions.

After learning the outcome of that attack, she immediately expressed willingness to abdicate and sell Marlinge Manor. The 300,000 Gold Shields were slightly below the manor's true value; she was frightened, thus seeking to appease herself and compensate for previous grievances.

Lei En actually harbored no desire to clash with her; a sincere abdication would suffice.

However, Mrs Iliesa insisted on selling the manor, saying that upon leaving the Imperial Capital, the estate she had meticulously maintained would have no caretaker, and only Viola's residence would ease her mind.

In truth, she feared repercussions from reporting evil‑god followers to the Justice Church, so she simply discarded the hot‑potato.

Lei En could only smile and accept it; fortunately Viola's small manor had been destroyed in the battle and needed a new residence.

As for those evil god followers, they were a piece of cake.

If they dare show up at Marlinge Manor again, I'll just wipe them all out to charge my phone. Seeing Lady Elisa so sensible, Lei En had the Mechanical Workers' Union withdraw that demand note.

The banquet lasted two hours before ending, and the guests all dispersed.

Only after the last guest left did Viola return to the luxurious bedroom upstairs, and then she showed Lei En a happy smile.

"Thank you, Lei En," Viola said, her face full of gratitude.

She knew very well that without Lei En she could not have so easily ascended the Pope's throne; the reason the church's upper-middle levels were so easy to appease was not entirely due to her tolerance and methods, but because they truly feared her husband.

Lei En smiled and said, "Between us, there's no need for thanks."

Viola nodded, her expression moved.

She was about to speak again when she saw Lei En rise, walk to the bedroom door and open it; outside, an Extreme Warrior handed in a note, and upon glancing at it he froze.

Under the crystal light, Viola saw the note read: Desade died in the Justice Church's prison.

(End of chapter)