The Pleasure of Suffering
"May I have your name?"
Roger looked up at the thin girl at the second-floor window.
Her face could not be described as pretty.
She also has some small freckles on her face.
But her eyes were full of energy, a stark contrast to the numbness and dejection of those around her.
This transcendent aura, coupled with that strikingly similar single ponytail, made it hard for Roger not to think of Mystra looked like before she was reincarnated!
"Could it be such a coincidence?"
Roger's suspicions grew.
Lost in thought.
The girl on the second floor had completely climbed out of the window. She clung to the windowsill with both hands and shouted, "Mia, my name is Mia."
"Can I jump? You'll catch me, right?"
At that very moment.
A voice admonishing someone came from a room on the second floor:
"Mia, stop fooling around... you should come back!"
The voice hadn't finished speaking.
Mia closed her eyes and jumped down resolutely!
Everyone gasped in surprise!
The girl's face turned deathly pale while she was in mid-air.
But the next second...
The noise gradually subsided—
An invisible hand appeared out of thin air, gradually supporting Mia's body and safely bringing her to the ground.
"You have a lot of courage."
Roger commented.
"Thank you."
Mia, covered in a cold sweat, tidied her messy hair.
A pair of large eyes filled with curiosity. "I have never seen Adventurers like you before."
"But I've heard of the reputation of the Clear Spring Sect. They've always been at odds with the Blood Worship Cultist... However, if I may ask, what does the Sect Master mean?"
Upon hearing this question...
Roger pondered for a moment and said, "It's the leader's intention."
Mia's eyes lit up. "Then aren't you even more powerful than Lord Ji Qiu?"
Roger did not answer.
The main problem was that he didn't know who Ji Qiu was.
Mia was quite sensible.
At present.
She straightened her clothes and asked proactively:
"So, when do we make our move?"
"Right now."
Roger replied.
"Tell me all the strongholds of the Blood Worship Cultist in the city."
"Then just lead the way."
"Yes, sir!"
"Lord Roger!"
Mia jumped up excitedly.
She immediately led Roger to the next block.
Near the square.
Many people have already left.
However, for reasons unknown, some people continued to secretly follow Roger and Mia.
Seeing this situation.
Mia hinted at something with some concern.
But Roger ignored it.
Very soon.
They then arrived at their first outpost.
It was an auction house owned by a wealthy businessman.
The auction house's sales area had long been converted into a gathering place for the Blood Worship Cultist, who had several basement levels.
Roger told Mia to wait outside.
He charged in all by himself! 30 minutes later.
Roger emerged unscathed and addressed Mia:
"Next place."
Mia glanced excitedly at the auction house entrance.
It's obvious.
She actually wanted to go inside and take a look.
However, the girl restrained herself and led Roger directly to the next stronghold.
Wait until they've gone far away.
Only then did the residents who had been following Roger curiously flock into the auction house.
A room in the basement.
Decapitated corpses lay quietly on the ground.
Besides these dead Blood Worship Cultist.
There were also about a dozen small points of light active at the scene.
And a palm-sized celestial creature emitting a milky white glow.
A thick stench of blood began to permeate Lotus City.
As the strongholds of the Blood Worship Cultist in Lotus City continued to fall.
Roger's Exorcism Mission has officially entered a high-speed, fast-paced phase!...
"Prompt: You have awakened hope in the hearts of the residents of Lotus City. Your regional reputation (Lotus City) +100"
More and more people are following you.
Your feat at the City Hall Plaza has already caused a sensation in the city, as the campaign to purge the Blood Worship Cultist continues.
The name of the Clear Spring Sect Leader will spread widely at an extremely rapid pace.
Your reputation is growing rapidly.
"You have killed one Blood Worship Cultist, and your Immortal Bone Fragments have accumulated to 3069..."
Two hours later.
The Blood of Myriad Filth lies outside the fifth stronghold in Lotus City.
Roger stood calmly with his hands behind his back.
He seemed to be thinking about something.
Mia, who was not far away, had an expression of adoration on her face!
In the past two hours.
Roger single-handedly killed thousands of Blood Worship Cultist and even more filth (crab legs).
This is unimaginable for ordinary people in Lotus City.
Mia herself is also a professional.
She knew all too well how difficult it was to deal with the "Spawn of the God of Tainted Blood".
But in front of this Clear Spring Sect Leader.
Those crab legs couldn't even withstand a single move! With this kind of strength, there is indeed hope of eradicating these long-standing scourges from Lotus City! However, after taking down the fifth stronghold...
Roger stopped.
This made Mia think he was tired, so she stepped forward and asked with concern, "Lord Roger, do you need to rest for a while?"
Roger paused for a moment, then chuckled and said, "No need for that."
"I'm just waiting for two people."
"By the way, how many more outposts are there?"
Mia quickly took out a thick document to check it before saying, "According to the records of the City Hall's previous investigation, the Blood Worship Cultist still has 8 outposts in the city."
Looking at the outer packaging of that document.
Roger asked thoughtfully, "Did your City Hall ever consider taking action against the Blood Worship Cultist?"
Mia said with slightly red eyes:
"Certainly!"
"My uncle has spent his whole life fighting against these cultists. A few months ago, he secretly contacted all the powerful people in the city, preparing to fight the Blood Worship Cultist to the death."
"But he mysteriously disappeared the day before the operation was to begin."
"We only found his body two weeks ago. Those cultists not only desecrated his body, but also claimed that he died from being addicted to 'illusion magic' and 'black bamboo powder.' It's ridiculous..."
"My uncle isn't that kind of person at all!"
Roger reacted quickly. "Your uncle is the former city lord?"
Mia wiped her eyes and said, "Yes."
"Everyone in Lotus City knows he's a good man, but it's no use. Even Archmage can't withstand the malice of those evil gods, let alone my uncle, who's just an elderly warrior..."
Roger sighed softly, patted her on the shoulder, and said nothing more.
Ancient Evil are not eliminated in a day...
Mystra would then be shrouded in the shadow of all sorts of cultists.
The tragedy of Lotus City will continue to unfold day after day.
The Blood of Myriad Filth is just one of them.
Endless Touch and other evil things.
We cannot let them get away with this either!
In fact.
This occurred during Roger's purge of the Blood Worship Cultist.
He also sensed the presence of several "Black Mist Cultist" among the tailing crowd.
These rats are clearly Icadore fans.
The reason Roger hasn't made a move against them yet.
It's simply because they are more wary of the power of the Blood of Myriad Filth.
"The intelligence transmission within the Blood Worship Church is a bit slow."
While waiting.
Roger glanced at the data panel as he went.
He has already taken such a high-profile action, but the other side still doesn't seem to realize it—this can be seen from the fact that the ceasefire agreement has not been triggered.
This demonstrates that the "Blood of Myriad Filth" is not as omniscient as Icadore describes about what happened in Mystra.
They must possess powerful sensory abilities.
However, this method has its limitations.
It won't take effect in 24 hours at the very least.
For Roger.
This is very important information.
After a while.
Two streaks of light flashed across the sky.
Two men riding on Wizard Broom jumped off the brooms.
They are demons disguised as human wizards! One of them is "Woodpecker".
It was him.
Having just used the transformation technique to play the role of "an old woman whose son turned into a monster," Roger had the opportunity to make a scene. Otherwise, how could such a coincidence happen in the world?
The other one is Hades, the goat-headed demon.
This fellow is both brave and resourceful, more than capable of handling the task Roger assigned to him.
That was when Roger was clearing out the Blood Worship Cultist' stronghold alone, he was responsible for the security and guard of the outer perimeter!
Special.
They also need to keep an eye on the growing group of people who stalk others.
This is a very complex and meticulous task.
In order to complete it successfully.
Roger's entire crew of devils was mobilized.
They disguised themselves as ordinary people and blended into the city—
This arrangement was made for two reasons: firstly, the direct assistance of demons would damage the image of the Clear Spring Sect; and secondly, it was to guard against potential dangers.
Roger's senses were powerful.
But it's not a panacea.
Outside the base.
The two devils drew near.
The Woodpecker casually cast a soundproof spell.
Seeing this scene.
Mia tactfully walked away.
"How about it?"
Roger asked.
"Owner."
No informant was found.
Hades said respectfully, "It seems that the Blood Worship Cultist are indeed very unpopular in Lotus City."
Roger breathed a slight sigh of relief.
Although he was not afraid to confront the Blood of Myriad Filth head-on, he had to be careful if the other party used underhanded tactics!
This is Mystra!
If we continue to operate according to the Kuynam model.
They will die a horrible death.
After listening to Hades ' report.
Roger solemnly instructed:
"Reassign two more people to keep watch, and report to me immediately if there's any disturbance; when I'm clearing out the Blood Worship Cultist ' stronghold, at least ten people should be on the perimeter checking for traps, barriers, teleportation arrays..."
in addition.
You two go and follow those "Black Mist Cultist"...
After giving the instructions.
Roger also made several backup plans.
Only then did he let his underlings disperse.
In the time that follows.
Roger continues to fight demons alone.
The number of targets on Mia's list of outposts is decreasing.
It continued until dusk.
All 13 outposts on the list were completely eradicated!
This included six barracks, three auction houses, two grocery stores, one cemetery, and one abandoned orchard on the outskirts of the city.
A large number of cultists were killed by the Red Moon Ghost King and the Formless Sword.
Roger's number of Immortal Bone fragments also broke through the 5,000 mark.
And they successfully obtained their second Immortal Bone!...
"Wind Riding Sword Bone (Tier 1 Immortal Bone /Left Hand)"
"Basic: Provides 600 additional gas points"
"Refinement 1: Your skill ' Sword Control Technique ' increases movement speed by 60%"
"Refinement 2: Your feat ' Body-Sword Fusion ' duration increased by 6 seconds."
"Refinement 3: You have gained the new skill ' Wind Riding Art ' (200)"
"Wind Riding Art: You can summon a gentle breeze and ride it to fly until the breeze disappears. Wind Riding Art will give you aerial movement ability that is no less than 'Low-level Flight Spell '."
"Refinement 4: You will gain the new feat 'Transcending the Azure Sky' (estimated effect) (not achieved)"
In terms of the quantity of tempering.
The Wind Riding Sword Bone is far more numerous than the Formless Sword Bone.
However, in terms of effectiveness...
The "Invisible" attribute can barely match the three attributes mentioned above.
In Roger's view
The increased movement speed from Sword Control Technique is a negligible option.
The main reason is that he has too many vehicles.
There are cars, horses, earth escape, wind control, and somersault clouds...
The Life Sword.
Driving on the highway isn't that comfortable either.
therefore.
As an advanced version of "Ride the Wind," the Wind Riding Art is no longer as appealing.
The most important attribute of this Immortal Bone is that it provides the sustain for the powerful ultimate move "Body-Sword Fusion"!
You need to know.
When the Body-Sword Fusion, the power of the sword light is equivalent to 2000% of the normal state!
The only drawback is its 6-second duration.
Now it's 12 seconds.
The effect is more than doubled! And it's combined with the characteristic of being "invisible".
The "Body-Sword Fusion" specialization is already among the top tier in Roger's repertoire of special moves.
The appearance of the two Immortal Bone added fuel to Roger's already burning fighting power.
He couldn't wait to obtain more Immortal Bone!
It's a pity.
The data is displayed in the data column.
The requirement for fragments for the third Immortal Bone has reached 20,000!
This number is clearly not something Roger can achieve through his own efforts alone.
More.
The cooperation of Blood Worship Cultist may also be needed!...
Besides the fragments of Immortal Bone.
Roger also harvested a total of over 300 years of lifespan from the "Spawn of the God of Tainted Blood".
The good news is...
The "Lifespan Accumulation Thrice" feat even has an effect on subsequent lifespan increases! In that case...
Roger's lifespan increased by approximately 1000 in total.
Its total lifespan has officially surpassed the 10,000 mark!
"Finally, I'm no longer the Nine Thousand Years Old..."
Watching life expectancy continue to increase.
Roger felt an indescribable sense of satisfaction.
Night fell.
Outside the 13th stronghold.
Roger showed no signs of fatigue.
Not far away.
Mia clenched her fists tightly, her expression filled with excitement.
This was not only because of the destruction of the Blood Worship Cultist, but also because they found a considerable amount of grain in the 13th stronghold—El Orchard!
Based on conservative estimates.
This batch of grain is enough to feed the entire city for half a month.
This will greatly alleviate the pressure on Lotus City from both internal and external troubles.
but.
Mia still had a hint of worry on her face at this moment.
She glanced somewhat uneasily outside the orchard—
The trailing crowd grew larger and larger.
More and more people are joining in.
Her worries increased dramatically.
Are you worried that I might confiscate the grain?
Roger quietly appeared beside her and asked a question in a low voice.
Mia was startled.
He nodded obediently.
"They... they're all starving..."
Mia explained somewhat awkwardly, "I was afraid they would offend you..."
Roger shook his head:
"I understand."
"It is perfectly reasonable to use this batch of grain to alleviate the pressure on Lotus City."
"However, I need a suitable person to organize the distribution of relief food."
As he spoke.
His gaze fell on Mia.
Her voice carried a subtle, alluring quality. "Mia."
Do you yearn to become stronger?
The girl glanced at Roger unexpectedly.
Immediately.
She nodded firmly.
The cute ponytail swayed wildly.
Roger smiled gently, "Then give me your hand."
Mia nervously stretched out her little hand, which Roger grabbed immediately—
She is really very thin.
That little hand felt incredibly light and delicate to the touch.
The next second.
A powerful force erupted from Roger's palm!
"Notification: You have used ' Dragon Blessing '"
"Mia gained a lot of XP".
"Mia's level has been raised from LV39 to LV50."
"Ah..."
The girl groaned softly in pain.
Her body trembled violently, and for a moment she curled up like a shrimp, but she quickly relaxed.
"My body..."
"Is this the power you bestowed upon me?"
By the time Mia came to her senses...
Roger had already released his grip without making a sound. He looked at Mia with a complicated expression, and after a while, he said softly, "Seven days later."
"One more time."
"From now on, you will be my personal representative in Lotus City. Once this batch of grain is processed, it will be handed over to you for distribution..."
Mia listened, feeling dizzy and disoriented.
She doesn't seem to be able to process so much information all at once.
But Roger's mind had already gone through countless thoughts.
His gaze repeatedly scrutinized the newly appeared lines of information.
His brows furrowed slightly.
"Hint: You used ' Dragon Blessing ' on Mia, Mia's faith in you has reached the level of 'Believer'."
"Now that you've gained your first potential 'follower,' are you preparing to establish your own sect?"
The basic requirements for establishing a religious sect:
1.3 or more 'devout believers'
2. Non-repeating deity names 3. Mystical rituals (deception 790: can be fabricated)
..."
Leaving aside the various claims about "founding a sect".
Roger's use of Dragon Blessing on Mia was indeed a test.
However, the test results were beyond his expectations.
Mia could actually become his follower! "Then she can't be the reincarnation of Mystra."
Even if a true god were to reincarnate, he would not blindly believe in others.
Thinking about this...
Roger couldn't help but feel a little regretful.
However, he quickly adjusted his mindset.
After tidying up the orchard.
Roger planned to have Mia distribute a small portion of the food first, and then deal with the situation in Lotus City after he had completely eliminated the Blood Worship Cultist.
But at this very moment...
A blood mist suddenly descended upon the north of the orchard.
Within the blood mist.
A low, guttural bark rang out! "It's a monster kept by the Blood Worship Cultist!"
"That three-headed monster is coming! Everyone run!"
"Hurry up..."
Screams echoed from outside the orchard.
The blood mist arrived extremely quickly.
In just a moment.
It then enveloped the entire orchard.
"Eye Technique: Absolute Insight!"
In the dim light.
Roger spotted the approaching monster at a glance.
After clearly seeing the enemy.
He was just about to make a move.
Who knew that it would happen at this moment?
A feeling of anxiety arose spontaneously.
On the data panel.
"Warning: You have encountered a disciple of the Blood of Myriad Filth, and the two are currently hostile."
If you take the initiative.
This is considered a unilateral breach of the ' Truce Contract '...
"Is this the official start of the war?"
Roger paused for a moment.
The next second.
He smiled silently.
The figure disappeared from the spot.
Immediately afterwards.
A furry dog-headed man appeared out of nowhere!
"The one who signed the ceasefire was Roger..."
"What does this have to do with me, the Yellow Beard Daoist?"
At that time.
Roger let out a long laugh.
He was carrying a thick, long stick.
He swung his staff at the invading monster! The monster showed no fear whatsoever.
Three heads, drooling, rushed forward! In the blink of an eye.
When the dust settles.
"Notification: By consuming 1 drop of Sub-Divine Oil, you have used ' Extracorporeal Avatar: Yellow Beard Daoist,' and your level has reached 119."
"You have gained a rank of: Stick 0.55"
"Data panel loading..."
"You have encountered a disciple of the Blood of Myriad Filth: Purgatory Three-Headed Dog (Transcendent/Lord/Watchdog/Alien Demon...)"
"Record: You killed Purgatory Three-Headed Dog with the Ocean-Fixing Strike."
"Extermination Order (Position Draw): You have gained 0.03 Defense Positions."
"Defense Rank: You can gain extra benefits in the process of defending against attacks;"
You have a special talent for defense; your Base Defense Value is increased by 3.
Your special ability ' Defense as Offense ' is increased by 30%;
You have acquired the random rank feat - The Pleasure of Suffering.
"The Pleasure of Suffering: You gain extra XP from getting beaten up;"
You will have a total of 1 hour of 'suffering time' each day (which you can freely turn on or off).
During the 'time of suffering'.
The more severe the damage you suffer and the more intense the pain you perceive, the more XP you gain; when you die and are resurrected during the 'Suffering Time'.
You will have the opportunity to obtain a large amount of XP and a special reward: 'Death's Pleasure'.
"Hmm?"
"Strange XP... no, strange new specializations have been added!"
Looking at the corpse of the Purgatory Three-Headed Dog on the ground.
In a short time.
Roger didn't know what expression to make.
It is recovering.