Rebirth of the Interstellar Pope <Mecha>

Chapter 11

Chapter 11

【Anno: It was only after a long time since I was reborn that I realized the true reason behind Pope Anno's renowned legacy was not merely Rufet's obsessive admiration. Nothing compares to the power of time. Over the past 3,000 years, the interstellar community has elevated Pope Anno to a status nearly akin to that of a deity. They admire me, worship me, and regard me as an immortal myth.】

【In reality, I am just a humble and moderate pope.】

【During my hundred years in office, I have tried to stand my ground against the Senate, but I often ended up making concessions. My contributions lie in religious texts, my abilities of awareness, and the few times I truly stood firm. However, my greatest sacrifice for the galaxy was at the cost of my life.】

【I have no regrets.】

【The only regret is that he did not share my era with the celestial being known as Rufeite.】

Anno slept fitfully, his mind burdened by Napoleon's unease, which seemed to linger around him, constantly confirming whether Anno was still present or had vanished once more. As a result, he woke up the next morning with a face swollen like a water balloon and dark circles under his eyes.

Rufet, in stark contrast, radiated energy. After a night's rest, Lord Tianjiao was invigorated, so much so that he began to test Anno's limits the moment he saw him.

"Tsk, tsk, tsk, look at you," Rufeite said, shaking his head. "You've lived for so long, yet you look like you've overindulged. It's truly disrespectful to your elders."

Anno shuddered. "...! Can the Heavenly Church really use such language?!"

Rufeite was dressed in his usual camouflage uniform and hat. His earrings were now purple, and he wore fingerless gloves on his right hand, emblazoned with a six-pointed star.

Rufeite shrugged. "Which clause in the church's doctrine states that the Catholic Church can't use bad words?"

"Which religious terminology allows you to add 'fuck' after Hallelujah?" Anno shot back.

"Which ear did you hear me add 'fuck' after Hallelujah? I'm a member of the Heavenly Church. Even if I say something inappropriate, there's no Presidential Committee to punish me. Now, follow me; military training is about to begin."

Rufeite led Anno to the nearest interstellar gate. As they jumped, Anno frowned and asked, "The arbitration committee of religion has always been the Holy See. Why do you say there is no arbitration committee?"

Michael's light energy fragments coalesced into a space shuttle, propelling Anno and Rufet toward the interstellar gate of Jerusalem University.

After a moment of silence, Rufet turned to Anno. "Don't you know? The Church has long since separated from religion."

Those two sentences were enough to leave Anno in shock.

The Vatican has divorced itself from religion? How could this have happened?!

The Vatican has always been regarded as the outer core of religion. Although the Pope's position is unparalleled, standing as an independent figure at the pinnacle of faith, he is still subject to numerous restrictions.

These limitations stem from within the Senate.

Externally, the Holy See also plays a role.

The Senate handles internal religious affairs. For instance, if Kedilah wishes to become the dean of the Department of Religion at Jerusalem University, he must secure approval from over 65% of the senators.