Hyper-Dimensional Player

Chapter 922 - 5: Begin the Slaughter! Dance of Death

Joy Church.

After arming himself, Duncan directly returned to the Temple of Joy. He would base his activities in the Temple District for the foreseeable future because even the human form might be on the assassin’s target list. Considering the formidable figures in this world had many eerie methods, Duncan was obviously safer where there were healers present.

With this world’s healing divine techniques, one could be pulled back from the brink of death in an instant.

At the luxurious bar counter, Duncan said to the joyful attendant wiping the table, "A glass of tequila, please."

The temple of the Goddess of Joy, Lierla, could be in any style.

Generally, aside from the Great Divine Hall, which adheres to the ancient temple’s architectural style, most other temples vary in style. They are often built around a massive conference facility, banquet hall, or ballroom, from which smaller conference rooms, bars, chat rooms, and lounges may extend.

Does it feel somewhat familiar?

You can think of most of the temples of the Goddess of Joy, Lierla, as fully functional and discreet clubs.

The second-ranking goddess’ club in all of Ferren.

Above the temple, the accommodations for the divine personnel are usually located; they reside in comfortable apartments. By any measure, Lierla’s temples are opulently decorated, often featuring crystal chandeliers, inlaid wooden floors or marble tiles, velvet curtains, exquisite gilded mirrors, and solid oak bars well-stocked with drinks.

Duncan found staying here even more comfortable than his own home, as almost anything he wanted could be provided.

However, if talking about temple decoration in terms of luxury and comprehensive facilities, the temples of the Goddess of Love and the Lady of Wealth are unparalleled. The former even features uniquely designed small compartments and exquisite screens, designed for rendezvous and courtship, offering secluded spaces for salon attendees amidst the temple’s resting area.

As for the Temple of Wealth, it’s pure ostentatious wealth; the standard nouveau riche décor style.

The room where Duncan resided was arranged by a revelry master, who is the assistant to the Bishop. Nearby were the bar, ballroom, and banquet hall, and on the first floor, there was a large dining hall with a Half-Elf chef hired from elsewhere.

The Mother of Great Bliss lived upstairs from Duncan in a lavish suite. The stairway was equipped with secret technique locks and specialized guards, and she rarely returned to her large villa.

Internally, within the Joy Church, the Mother of Great Bliss’ responsibility is to guide all church members to follow the teachings of the Goddess of Joy and the various dictates of the Church, as well as to draw funds from her apparently endless treasury to cover the temple’s expenses.

Don’t ask where this money comes from; rest assured it’s not from the fundraising efforts of the faithful, neither does the Joy Sect possess such large enterprises.

If asked, consider it the generosity of kind patrons.

Thank the Lady of Wealth.

Due to the assassination attempt on the Mother of Great Bliss, even the usually laid-back Joy Sect was a bit on edge. The church recalled combat personnel from everywhere, mainly members of the Crimson Performer order.

"Lord Duncan."

Vera had changed into a luxurious and fitting evening gown, with her chest adorned by a radiant gemstone necklace. Her entire appearance had transformed, seemingly having been carefully groomed, with her pale golden hair styled up, an exquisite gem hairpin securing it, and gemstone chains adorning her wrists and ankles, giving her the appearance of a glamorous noblewoman. On closer inspection, there was an added hint of enchanting allure. She was presumably wearing curiosities that enhanced charm.

Duncan glanced at her, his gaze resting on the radiant gemstone necklace.

Vera’s expression showed slight nervousness, and she cautiously said, "These are all rewards from the Mother of Great Bliss."

Understood.

Because she had attended to Duncan last night, or rather, successfully acquired the status of Duncan’s lover, her status immediately rose and she was promoted from a joyful attendant to a joyful priest, rewarding her with many fine things.

It couldn’t be called a direct leap to the top.

But due to her service last night, she completed her transition from the lower ranks of the church to a mid-level management position.

The Mother of Great Bliss valued his strength even more than he expected.

And she was generous indeed.

Duncan calmly set down his longsword and said slowly, "What is it?"

Vera, looking completely obedient, poured Duncan a cup of tea, whispering, "Tonight, the Mother of Great Bliss is holding a sacred funeral."

"She has specifically requested you to be one of the close guards."

A funeral?

Yes, many died last night, even the Joyful Dancer Lila was killed.

But isn’t rushing to hold a funeral a bit too hasty?

Duncan’s expression shifted slightly, as if he realized something, and solemnly asked, "Has the leader of the Crimson Performers returned?"

Vera nodded lightly and said, "Yes."

Luring the snake out of its hole?

Duncan continued to ask, "Have the Red Curtain Archbishop, the Laughing Priest, and the Dream Musician returned?"

Vera carefully shook her head and said, "I don’t know."

So at least some powerful figures have been summoned back. In this world where there’s a teleportation spell, it would be impossible for the Joy Sect’s strong figures not to act after the Mother of Great Bliss was targeted for assassination.

"I understand." Duncan nodded.

Since the Mother of Great Bliss had arranged it this way, he would follow orders and proceed, grasping the real situation on the go.

Night fell.

After enjoying a sumptuous meal prepared by the Half-Elf chef, Duncan returned to his room to wait quietly. Close to midnight, Vera and another joyful priest came to his door, indicating that it was time for them to head out together.