Without getting out, the driver drove straight through the side entrance into the courtyard behind the chapel.
Flowers bloomed and greenery flourished, while white marble lent the place an air of absolute sanctity.
At least, that was how it looked from outside.
"Get out."
The driver coldly urged Gao Ming along. Gao Ming took a deep breath. Even the air inside the chapel was different from outside, carrying a fragrance that made him feel exhilarated.
"The scent seems different from before."
"This way." Bishop Ci Xiang pushed Gao Ming into the chapel. They turned into a secret passage and headed down.
Devout prayers drifted in from all around. Soft light fell on every worshipper's face, their pure white clerical robes like God's canvas, the scattered flecks of light like angels' feathers.
They passed statues of Mercy Society members, their deeds inscribed on the walls: doctors who had saved hundreds, brave souls who had ventured into the Forbidden Zone, generous philanthropists, and highly respected scholars. Their radiance drove away the darkness. Even their statues inspired an involuntary sense of affection.
The fragrance in the air gradually faded. Gao Ming and Ci Xiang passed through three doors in succession, and the temperature slowly rose. Whether it was because of the atmosphere or something else, sweat began to bead on Gao Ming's forehead.
"The councilor is resting at the very bottom. She's been exhausted lately."
Gao Ming and Bishop Ci Xiang were stopped at the fourth door. Two young women who had lost both ears stood on either side. They took out various instruments and scanned every inch of Gao Ming's body.
Firearms, weapons, even metal buttons had to be left behind. Only after confirming that he carried nothing dangerous did the two women signal that Gao Ming could pass.
"Come with us."