Chapter 36: The Great Saint Hirune.

　One month after the total lunar eclipse---

　The Royal Capital was overflowing with people celebrating the birth of a new Great Saint, the ‘Great Saint Birth Festival'.

　Tourists from distant cities were coming to the festival, making it more crowded than ever before. 

“Here's a picture of the new Great Saint! You can get the black and white ones in the store, the colored ones are on reservation!”

Everyone rushed to the art store to get a glimpse of the new Great Saint.

"Oh!" How beautiful, how fragile, how world-weary her eyes are.”　

　Blonde hair, blue eyes, and a well-organized appearance, like an incarnation of the goddess Sophia.

　　 She was only ten years old, but she had a gaze that seemed to have seen the world. Of course it couldn’t be that she was sleepy.

"I want it in color!" I'll make a reservation! Me too! I want ten of these!”

　Paintings of Great Saint Hirune were selling like hotcakes.

　On the street from across the art store, a bard's sweet voice spun a tale of Hirune’s exploits in saving the Royal Capital. The soldiers protecting the city from the miasma, the Mephistopheles priests, the Holy Saints, the activities of Holly, Hirune's best friend who maintained the ward by herself, Hirune’s help ......, and Hirune’s holy magic spreading throughout the capital. --.

　Adults and children alike sweat in fervor when they hear the adventurous story.

“This was how the royal capital was protected.”

　When the song ended, the crowd applauded.

　Bronze and silver coins were repeatedly thrown into the bard's upturned hat.

“We're also selling a painting of Saint Holly!”

　The art store called out loudly.

　Not only was Hirune very popular, but so was Holly.

　Smiles were constantly breaking out in the capital. Everyone was happy, which was what Hirune had hoped for.

　In the midst of all this, there was a store that was so busy, it couldn't even take a break.

"Give me the futon you donated to the Great Saint! The pyory futon! I'll buy it! Is it true that Hirune-sama was here? Give me a pillow as well.”

　It was Valhalla, the bedding store.

　It’s unknown where the information leaked out, but it became known that Thomas, the owner, had donated a futon to Hirune, and rumor had it that Hirune liked it. From there, it was a mad rush.

"We'll attend to you in order! Please line up!"

　Thomas, the handsome shopkeeper, whipped his tired body and shouted.

　This was all thanks to Hirune. With that thought in mind, he went on selling the futons.

　The futons were so popular that they had to be made to order, and there was a three-month waiting list. Since the futons were made from the feathers of a difficult bird, mass production wasn’t possible at present.

　Our view changes to a certain shopping street.

　The shopping street, which had been deserted with only cuckoos crowing, was once again filled with people. In one corner of the shopping district, there was a line of people waiting at a furniture store that could be found anywhere.

 "Chairs that ruin people - commonly known as 'Hirune chairs' - on sale.”

The saint's chair that ruined people was also starting to attract customers.

　This one had become the talk of the town among experts with money to spare, and a quiet boom was taking place.

　The people in line were somewhat fidgety.

"Next, please."

　Leanne, the furniture maker's daughter, called in a clear voice.

She and her father were currently working on a Hirune chair.

　A mature man walked into the store, looked around, and muttered.

“I've heard there's a chair in here that can ruin people - and that the Great Saint uses it. ...... Is that true?”

“Of course it is.”

“What does it look like?”

“Here's a sample.”

　When Leanne introduced the sample, the man exclaimed.

“It looks like ...... a slime doesn't it?”

　There was a spherical object covered with a soft-looking fabric.

　At first glance, it looked like a big, sloppy ball.

"Yes, that's right. The people in the back are waiting for you, so please sit down and decide whether or not you want to buy it.”

Leanne said with a smile.

The man felt the way to decide was a little strange.

Nodding his head the man sat down in the Hirune chair.

“Oh ...... oof ......."

　The man's body was wrapped in the chair with a crunching sound. The man made an ecstatic expression at the unique comfort of the chair.

　Leanne quickly measured the man's body size, wrote it down in her notebook, and told him the price.

　The man nodded his head.

　Apparently, it was a good fit.

　Leanne's furniture store is also made-to-order, so delivery was not yet scheduled.

　After receiving the advance payment, Leanne sent the man off with a smile on her face and called the next customer who was waiting for her.

　　　　　　()

　The royal capital, the center of which was in great excitement.

　In the main church of the Mephistopheles Church, a blond-haired, blue-eyed great saint was whimpering.

“I'm sleepy. I'm sleepy. I can't take it anymore.”

Hirune, dressed in the robe of a Great Saints, rubbed her eyes.

"... Hahhhhh ... Mmm ..."

"Hirune-sama, please yawn a little smaller. Also how sleepy are you to be yawning like that?”

Jeanne rushed to cover Hirune's face.

“Even if you become a Great Saint, your drowsiness doesn’t change...”

　Hirune, who was to become a Great Saint on this sunny day, was on a break from the ceremonies.

　She’d been up since five in the morning without a break.

　 　 At two o'clock in the afternoon, she thought it was finally time for a break, but the break was only a few minutes. There was a lot to do at a Great Saints’ birth festival, and it had to be done in order. She invoked her holy magic dozing trick several times, but still, Hirune was sleepy.

　Currently, she was taking a break.

　She ate a piece of strawberry bread, which was very popular in the capital, and felt sleepy to the max.

"Just hang in there a little longer. Hang in there."

　Holly, who came to check on her, said.

 "Will she be fine communicating with the goddess in the square...... ?”

 “Hirune will be fine. You can't be rejected by the goddess. In fact, no one has ever failed to become a Great Saint before.”

　In order to be promoted from a saint to a great saint, it was important for many people to think that the saint is worthy of being one. It’s said that a saint with great achievements is more likely to become a great saint.

　However, it’s not always the case that one can become a great saint if she makes great achievements. Only with the gospel of Goddess Sophia will you be considered. 

　Currently, there are three Great Saints in EverSophia, all of them were mysteriously inspired by everyone saying, "It's time to make her a Great Saint.” Once that feeling sets in, there’s a divine compulsion that makes everyone feel the same way, regardless of occupation or gender.

　Mephistopheles called this phenomenon the gospel of the goddess Sophia.

　It was all under the guidance of the goddess Sophia.

“You mean I have to pray at the magic circle in the square and wait for the goddess to answer? When that’s done, I can go to sleep, right?" 

　Hirune asked Jeanne and Holly beside her.

"You went to bed at nineteen o clock last night, and you're still sleepy?"

　Holly sighed.

　Next to her, Jeanne looked up at the ceiling with a dreamy look on her face. Her ponytail swayed.

"Ah, I'm really looking forward to it. ...... I heard that the cloudy sky turned into sunshine in a blink of an eye at the time of the Great Saint Sansara. What will happen with Hirune-sama? ......" 

“I'm sure it'll end with a flash of light. That's the way it has to be. The goddess will surely be sleepy.”

　Hirune declares that the goddess is sleepy.

“ I don't think gods ever get sleepy, but what do I know?”

"Great Saint Hirune, it's time to go."

　A female priest entered the break room and bowed solemnly.

" let’s go then. For a nap.”

“No, it's not.”

“ I'm looking forward to it.”

Holly taps her shoulder and Jeanne smiles dazzlingly beside her.

　Hirune squeezed her eyes tightly to drive out the sleepiness and headed for the plaza, swaying in her Great Saint’s robe.

Chapter 37 : The Promotion Ceremony of the Great Saint

　One week after the total lunar eclipse, Zekyutos told Hirune that he would perform the ceremony to promote her to the rank of Great Saint, and she did a little dance of joy.

　The Great Saint she had been aiming for.

　If she became a great saint, she would get her own church.

　Once she received the church, she planned on remodeling it to her own specifications, including a soft futon, a chair that would ruin people, and a magical floor heating system.

　Suddenly, there was something that bothered her now that she got there.

(Hmmm ......, I was aiming to become a great saint, but would it be okay if I became one? I feel like I've just been sleeping since I came to this world.)

　Swaying in her Great Saints robe, and putting her feet in white high socks forward,  Hirune proceeded to the Royal Capital square.

　Incidentally, the clothing of the Great Saints was a special surplice that shows the lines of the body in precious white. Underneath is a women's cassock, similar to a skirt, but much shorter in length. The magical thread was placed in the Holy Grail, and only thread that has not deteriorated in fifty years is used for the skirt. It takes a lot of time, effort, and labor to knit one, so the short length was a material circumstance. To protect her legs, she wears white high socks that extend to her thighs. 

　All of them were embroidered with lace that resembled aurora roses, with gold and silver embroidery woven into them. It's a more luxurious version of the saint's dress she wore previously.

(My legs are so tight. I don't know if I should say this, but it looks really good on me.)

　It was a great saint's dress that suits the blonde-haired, blue-eyed Hirune.

(It's just ... the contents aren't ...) 

　She may look like a Great Saint, but she's not.

　That's what Hirune thought.

　In fact, Hirune's actions were the most unorthodox since the beginning of the Mephistopheles religion, and for this, she had been scolded many times and punished by cleaning the thousand-hall corridor.

　However, Hirune had a mysteriousness that more than made up for it.

　All the priests recognized her as a Great Saint from the bottom of their hearts.

　The fact that the gospel of the Goddess Sophia had been brought to her was the best proof of her high reputation.

"Hirune-sama, it's finally happening."

　Jeanne said in a proud voice.

　She walked one step behind her as her maid.

“Yes, it is. The Great Saint ...... am I a Great Saint ......?"

　Hirune turned her blue eyes sleepily to the ceiling.

　She could hear the sounds of her own steady footsteps. Jeanne was walking silently.

　If she walked down the long corridor to the end of it, she'll find a square. She could see a number of priests waiting at the exit.

“Jeanne, thank you for everything. Thank you so much for helping me when I was so selfish and slept all the time.”

　Hirune stopped and turned her big blue eyes to Jeanne.

“You’re a very important friend of mine. Will you continue to be my friend?”

　Jeanne paused and nodded vigorously several times.

“Yes, Hirune-sama. I'm really happy to be your maid. I thank the goddess every day that I met you, you know?”

"Oh, really? Well then, I should start thanking the Goddess for my encounter with Jeanne from today.”

When she saw Jeanne smiling adorably, Hirune sent her a smirk.

　Jeanne felt her body heat up when she saw Hirune’s blue eyes narrow.

“I'm the one who needs to say thank you Hirune-sama. I've been able to do my best because of you. I’m also happy that you always sleep with me on the bed. Please continue to be my friend." 

　Jeanne bowed deeply. Her ponytail spilled over her shoulder.

"Thank you Jeanne......."

"Hirune-sama......"

　Hirune and Jeanne hugged each other and felt each other's body heat.

　A strange sense of security enveloped them as their thin bodies became one.

　The two of them had been friends for a long time, spending more time together than family. There was a bond between them that was more than family.

“Thank you. Now, let's go.”

"Yes."

　Hirune pulled away from Jeanne.

“I have to be recognized by the goddess and become a great saint.”

“I've heard that no one has ever failed in the past. I’m sure Hirune-sama will be fine.”

"Thank you."

　Hirune nodded at Jeanne's kind words, walked down the corridor, and stepped into the square.

　　　　　　()

　　When Hirune entered the square, there was a big cheer.

　In the square of the royal capital, countless people had gathered to catch a glimpse of the Great Saint Hirune.

(Wow, what a crowd. Great Saints are amazing.)

　Hirune was a bit hesitant, but she had gotten used to being in front of people over the past two and a half years.

　She took a deep breath and proceeded solemnly down the red carpet.

　The great bells of the Royal Capital rang out, and a choir of a hundred people began to sing a chant.

　The song had a unique rhyme scheme and was somewhat pastoral.

　The square became silent, and only the voices of the choir could be heard.

(This is ...... making me sleepy. ......)

　The song was so pleasant that  Hirune almost let out a yawn, but she managed to hold it in by wriggling her mouth. It was a close call.

(Let's see, I stand in the middle of the magic circle in the square and chant the verses of the Great Saints. ......)

　She stared at the magic circle with puffy eyes and proceeded slowly.

　A white bird flew in the clear sky, chirping in a beautiful voice to encourage Hirune’s promotion to the status of Great Saint.

(White birds ...... Oh, there are many people in the windows of the houses. Everyone looks happy.)

　People were peeking out of the windows of the houses around the square, looking at the square with happy expressions on their faces. The lovers were cuddling, families are hugging their children, and the adults are looking at Hirune with sincere eyes. Dressed in a pure white robe, Hirune looked to all as if she had stepped out of the Bible, a great saint with a kind heart.

“.. Fuuaaaah..."

A distracted Hirune yawns as she walks, her eyes fluttering open and closed.

(Ah ... I yawned)

　Everyone who was watching smiled as they saw something that made them warm inside.

　Everyone knew that the Great Saint who looked so perfect was a dozing princess. The people were strangely happy to see that Hirune was still the same dozer, and happily whispered to the person next to them, "Did you see that?" And "She yawned."

　 On the other hand, Wanda's eyebrows twitched as she sat at Mephistopheles' table, and Holly smiled. Archbishop Zekyutos looked as if he saw something important.

(Okay, I got to the middle. Just take a deep breath ...)

　Inhaling then exhaling, Hirune opened her mouth wide.

“--When the world is filled with light, when the stardust that fell by the lake shines and the sun rises..."

Hirune began to chant the scriptures in a unique way to avoid drowsiness.

　It was a recitation that made even the aristocrats, who were the saint's advisors, have high regard. The people around her were at once drawn in.

　The choir lowered their singing voices and arranged the melody so that Hirune’s voice stood out.

　By the end of the five minutes of scriptures, many were in tears.

(Now the scripture is okay ... then prayer ...)

　Hirune got down on her knees and folded her hands.

(Peace and a good night's sleep to this wonderful world ... Smiles to all... Thank you Goddess for bringing me to EverSophia ...)

　Hirune remembered her life in Japan living like a running horse, and her days since her reincarnation in the EverSophia flashed through her mind.

　In my previous life, I worked as if I was chased by something.

When I came to EverSophia, I noticed that the world seemed to shine brighter.

　Maybe she just didn't realize it when she was in Japan, but the world was always shining, no matter where she was – she thinks about that.

(…Thank you……)

　Hirune recalled the joy, sorrow, and loss she had felt in Japan, the unstable emotions she had felt after staying up all night, the kindness, joy, relief, and contentment she felt after coming to this world... ...she felt her eyes burning.

　She didn't notice for a while that she was crying.

　As she prayed, the voice of the goddess Sophia echoed out of nowhere.

"Hirune, you’ve done well."

“Goddess?"

"Your life isn’t over yet….be yourself "

"... I keep dozing, but is that okay ...?"

"Everyone will forgive you if you doze off a little. You did a lot in your previous life. "

The Goddess Sophia smiles elegantly with a harp-like tune.

“I see. I'm relieved to hear that. I was saved by the kindness of everyone. I’m really grateful.”

“Don't forget to thank them. ...... Look, they're waiting for you. ......”

"Yes ... Goddess-sama ..."

The presence of the Goddess Sophia disappeared.

When she opened her eyes, she saw the faces of the people watching her with bated breath.

　When Hirune smiled unintentionally, the magic circle glowed and stardust spewed out, bouncing and sparkling.

The people around her shouted, "Oh!”

　

　　Another large circle of light descended from the air and surrounded Hirune, flashing several times before entering her body and turning into wings of light.

"Hirune-sama--"

　someone says, then Hirune flew away, scattering stardust.

(May everyone sleep well ...)

　At the moment of praying for such sleep, stardust erupted and soar up into the sky, flying over the entire royal capital. 

　From the royal castle to the back alleys, the stardust emitted by Hirune rained down in an irregular motion like the falling feathers of a bird.

"Wow!" "Beautiful ..." "Stardust is falling" "Hurray, the Great Saint Hirune!" "This will make the world more peaceful ...!" 

　Everyone looked up at the sky, touched the stardust, and smiled.

　The stardust bounced in the palms of people's hands, sparkling happily.

(Does this make me a Great Saint? I'm so relieved ......  I'm starting to feel very sleepy ......)

　Hirune yawns loudly while floating fluffily in the sky. 

　

　 --This was the moment when the dozing Great Saint who would eventually become a legend and be loved by all was born.

Epilogue

　The Great Saint's Ceremony was successfully completed.

　The city was in an uproar, drinking and singing over the birth of the new Great Saint, and the sound of laughter never ceased.

“It's finally over. I'm finally done, I've become a great saint.”

　Hirune rubbed her eyes and yawned loudly.

　The ceremony had taken all day. A drowsiness enveloped her whole body.

　The moon was up in the night sky, and Hirune, Jeanne, Holly, Wanda, and Zekyutos were gathered in a room reserved for the Great Saints in the main church. 

　Hirune's mind was completely relaxed at the sight of these reassuring members.

(Now I'm also a great saint! A white company with fluffy futons, all-you-can-eat delicious food,  three meals and a nap!) 

　When Hirune stretched out, Archbishop Zekyutos put his hand on Hirune's head and gently stroked it.

"Ah, ... Zekyutos-san?"

“You've done well. It's been two and a half years since I found you collapsed. I never thought you'd be promoted to Great Saint so quickly.”

"It's thanks to you, Zekyutos-san. Thank you very much."

　Zekyutos removed his hand from Hirune's head, and Hirune bowed with a smile.

“I didn't do anything. It was the goddess Sophia who guided me."

　With a serious face, Zekyutos made the holy seal.

“You're the only one who’s ever yawned while becoming a great saint. But it's so you." 

　Holly laughs amusedly, rolling her large hanging eyes.

　Jeanne, who was watching, nodded her head.

“I can't leave a girl this dangerous alone.”

　Wanda straightened her back and looked at Hirune, then slid her gaze to Zekyutos.

　Zekyutos nodded absentmindedly.

“I have something to tell you Hirune. Jeanne, Holly, please listen. Hirune, you know that there are three Great Saints in the world, don't you?”

“Yes, I know.”

“The Great Saints are responsible for stopping the miasma in the three cities of the East, West and North. It is to protect this world."

　Zekyutos made a worried look in his eyes for a moment,  which quickly changed to a sardonic expression.

“We're asking you to go to the southern region ....... We'll build a large church exclusively for you and purify the depopulated southern land. It will be a hard and arduous road for a ten-year-old, but I believe you can do it.”

“I'm going. I’ll build my own church.”

　Hirune replied with a hint of fear.

　Zekyutos shook his head gravely, "I see," he said, the crease between his eyebrows deepening.

“I want Jeanne and Holly to go with Hirune to the south and assist her. Can you do that?"

　Holly straightened up as she was told.

“Of course. I'll do my best in the name of the Goddess Sophia.”

“I'll also help you, Hirune-sama.”

　Jeanne also affirmed.

　Zekyutos and Wanda looked at each other, relieved by their words.

　It was Zekyutos who spoke first.

“Wanda, you will continue to be the educator for Hirune and Holly. There's still a lot about the world that you ten-year-olds don't know. Wanda will teach you everything you don't know. Keep that in mind.”

"I will continue to be strict with you. Hirune, are you ready?"

　In response to Wanda's gentle but stern gaze, Hirune bit back a yawn.

“Yes. Wanda-sama, I look forward to working with you.”

“Good answer. Holly, is that fine?”

 “Yes. I'll be glad to have you with us.”

　Holly shook her head happily.

　For both of them, Wanda was an educator, a mother figure, an older sister, and an irreplaceable presence.

“And one more thing. There's a rumor spreading that Hirune will be the Great Saint who will purify the southern districts. ......"

　For the first time, Zekyutos slurred his words.

“Thomas of Valhalla, the bedding shop that was involved with Hirune, the owner of a skewer stall, Phi Phi the bakery shop owner, and Leanne, the furniture maker, are all saying that they want to go south with you. According to the reports, other stores have also raised their hands. It seems that everyone wants to open a branch office in the south because they believe that the development of the south will advance if you're there.”

(Everyone ......!)

　Hirune had been worried about the depopulation of the south, so the offer seemed to open up the future for her.

“The aristocrats have nominated Count Bon Hazel. The Count's architectural firm has decided to open a branch office. Hirune, this is a tailwind for us and for you. The goddess is still in the south. There's just a lack of faith. This is an opportunity for the Mephistopheles church to seriously embark on the development of the south.”

　These were the words of the pragmatic Zekyutos.

(So many people are going to the south with me?)

　The matter was becoming more and more serious, and Hirune was getting faint. Also, she was getting sleepy.

“Wow…..It's great that they're going to be able to go to the South with me.....fwaaaaaah"

"Hey, don't talk while yawning."

　Wanda chided Hirune.

“I'm sorry, I've been sleepy all day. ......”

　They’d been working since early morning. It was almost too much.

Jeanne stepped forward and narrowed her eyebrows.

“I'm sorry but by the looks of it, Hirune-sama has already exceeded her limit of activity. If we don't get her to bed soon, she's going to be a problem for us tomorrow.”

　Jeanne put her hands on her skirt and bowed.

　Zekyutos and Wanda, who had been dimly aware of this, nodded that they knew also.

“I'll tell you more about it tomorrow. Sleep well today, all three of you." 

　Zekyutos looked at Jeanne, Holly and Hirune, who was swaying her head.

“It's against the rules for two saints to sleep in the same room, but ...... Zekyutos-san has given his permission. I'll make a special exception for today."

　Wanda smiled and looked at the three of them.

“I'll see you later.”

"Good night. May the goddess Sophia bless you all."

　Zekyutos and Wanda left the room.

"...... bed. ...... oof ......."

　Hirune leaned against Jeanne.

"Yes, yes. We'll sleep in the bed, Hirune-sama.

"...... mnya."

“My  God, she's asleep already?”

“I think so.”

　Holly and Jeanne looked at Hirune’s sleeping face and smiled.

　They worked together to put Hirune to bed, and when they were ready to sleep, they formed a river shape with Hirune between them. The Pyory down comforter felt good. Jeanne and Holly wriggled their bodies into the most comfortable position and held Hirune’s hand.

"...... my own church is ...... so nice, isn't it ......?"

　As they held her hands, words escaped from Hirune's mouth.

　Holly giggled at her funny sleep talking.

“I wonder what kind of dreams she’s having?”

　Holly pulled the Pyory covers up to her neck and glanced at Jeanne.

“A pleasant dream, I'm sure.”

　Jeanne looked at Holly and Hirune with kind eyes.

“Hmmmm…….. I'm sure it is ......”

"Yes, ...... surely..... It  is ......."

　The girls had also been moving all day. Sleepiness washed over them.

"...... munya."

"......Suu.....Suu......"

"......mmmm......"

　At some point, the room was filled with the sleepy breathing of three lovely people. 

(...... My own church ...... all rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with chairs that ruin people ...... four days off a week with three meals and a nap...) ...a white company with no overtime.....)

　Hirune sleeps peacefully, dreaming of a happy future to come.

　End of Volume 1

 Author Note:

Dear Readers

　Thank you very much for reading this far.

　This is the end of the first volume.

　The author herself is relieved that Hirune was able to become a great saint. 　

　I started writing this story because I wanted to heal, but this is the first story I've ever written that made me sleepy. It's really hard to write this story at night... lol.

　I'd like to start writing the second volume after I've made a plot, so it may take a while.

　If you would like to support me, please follow me, like me, and give me a ★. 　 　

　It's very encouraging...!

　So please continue to watch over the leisurely adventures of the Great Saint of Doziness.

　I'll be back.  (˘ω˘) Sleepy

　Author

Volume 2: Ixendahl Frontier City

Chapter 1: Before Departure

　It's been two years and eight months since Hirune was reincarnated into the otherworld of EverSophia.

　In the past, she worked hard to make a living, but now she was living in a world where she could heal herself.

(Since my reincarnation, my personality has become more laid-back. ......)

　Hirune, lounging on her bed, looked up at the ceiling.

　There was a lot of healing going on, or perhaps it would be better to say that her body has become a body that seeks healing on its own. 

　　I think Goddess Sophia said something like "Oh ... you seem to have a very self-paced personality in your next life ... fufufu". with a beautiful smile, 

　She wasn't told whether the way she is now is her true self or not though. 

（Even so, the appearance and the contents don't match at all ... I've gotten used to it, but every once in a while I look in the mirror and think, ‘who is this beautiful Western-style girl?'…. ... Oh, I love my bed.)

Her body, given to her by the goddess, is blond-haired and blue-eyed, with large eyes, a lovely nose, and lips. Her face is like a work of art, and if she were silent, she would look like a great saint who jumped out of a picture book.

(My goal is to become one with the futon.)

　Hirune wrapped the usual thin comforter around her body and rolled over. It seems that she no longer cared about her appearance. She had zero sense of being the Great Saint. 

(Why can't I take Pyory’s comforter to the south? ....... Goodbye, Pyory-chan. My beloved Pyory-chan: .......)

　The donated futon will be left in Hirune’s room at the main church.

　It would simply be too much luggage. It was a physical reason.

(Is it so wrong to leave it in the carriage seat?) 

　Archbishop Zekyutos, Hirune's guardian, said that leaving the futon in the Great Saints carriage was a matter of public opinion.

　However, as a loophole, he doesn't mind if the bedding store Valhalla, which will accompany her on her journey to the south, gives her a bedding. As for Zekyutos, he cares about Hirune and is giving her preferential treatment.

(Thomas from the bedding store, can you give me a new comforter? I wish I had some money to spend on my own.)

　The saints don't have any money of their own.

　Unfortunately, they can't buy anything, so they can only receive things through goodwill donations. Well, most people will give something to the Great Saints if they ask for it, but Hirune is steeped in the Japanese custom of buying things if she wants them.

(Well, I still have my partner right? My little raggedy futon. My partner, my buddy.)

　I've been using this futon since I was reincarnated.

　At the time, it was a bit ragged and had a hole in it.

　Now, thanks to Jeanne, it's been repaired and has appliqued stars on it. It comes with a nap slobber cover.

(A partner's sense of security ... Nemumi) { TN: Guessing it’s some anime’s intro song}

　Saying to herself it was her partner she played the background music of a certain detective drama in her mind. 

   While Hirune was relaxing in bed, there was a knock on the door and a maid with pretty black hair in a ponytail came in.

“I'm sorry to keep you waiting, Hirune-sama. We'll be leaving soon.”

　Jeanne, who had a small animal-like look, said with a smile.

(Jeanne is always cute. She could be the center of an idol group. ...... And she's a super high-spec maid. It's a total defeat in girl power.......)

　Jeanne cocked her head as Hirune stared at her with sleepy eyes.

“Hirune-sama? Are you getting sleepy again?”

“No. I was just thinking Jeanne is cute.”

“What? What? What's with you all of a sudden? Please stop, it's embarrassing.”

　Jeanne blushed at the sudden praise and gripped the skirt of her maid uniform.

“No, no, this is purely factual.”

“Please don't make fun of me. I'm not happy to hear you say that when you’re much more beautiful than me.”

　Jeanne turned her head to the side with a pout.

　Even so, she looked somewhat happy.

"I'm still no match for Jeanne. I'll tell the man who wants to take Jeanne as his wife to do so after defeating me..”

“What's with that?”

“A greeting from a friend’s perspective.”

“What kind of friend's greeting is that?  - There is no one who would try to defeat you. You’re a Great Saint, after all.”

“At that time, I'll take off the mask of  Great Saint and call myself just a bedding store girl. The true identity of the Great Saint is ...... the daughter of a bedding store. Ja-jan!" 

"That's a bit of wishful thinking isn't it?"

　Jeanne giggled as if she found it funny.

When she took off the mask of the Great Saint, she became the daughter of a bedding store. She was full of desire to have a futon.

"Hirune-sama, how many times do I have to tell you, you can't take Pyory’s futon with you?"

　Jeanne laughed as she approached the bed and with a deft hand, stripped off the partner wrapped around Hirune. It was the hands of an expert.

“Oh, don’t take my partner. I'm still in bed. About an hour more.”

"An hour? We have to get ready to leave.”

“I can't hear you. I'm one with the bed."

　Hirune turned into a prone figure, spread out her blond hair like a fan and clung to the bed.

“I am the bed. If you're going to carry me, please carry the whole bed.”

　The Great Saint Hirune, has a problem of becoming one with the bed.

“I'd be happy if the mattress was a little softer. ......”

　It was hard to hear her because she had her face buried in the bed, mumbling.

　Jeanne looked at Hirune, still smiling as she always does.

“Hirune-sama, we've prepared cushions for the Great Saint in the southbound carriage. And you can have strawberry bread as a snack. We don't have a bed, but  Zekyutos-san has prepared a custom-made mattress for you. It's the soft mattress that Hirune-sama has been talking about, you know?”

　The bed and Hirune twitched.

“ Thomas from the Valhalla Bedding Store made a mattress with a design that's typical of the Great Saints, just in time for our departure. We'll definitely get a good night's sleep on it."

　Jeanne observes Hirune.

　The hands clinging to the bed had loosened a little.

“It's a travel mattress that won't weigh you down. It's wonderful!"

　Jeanne said, and Hirune turned her face lazily to the side.

“I have no choice but to try it”.

“Yes. So let's go. Please stand up.”

　As soon as she affirmed, Jeanne carefully pulled Hirune’s hand and helped her up.

“Let's find another time to become one with the bed......”

　As Hirune strikes a regretful Hail Mary pose, Jeanne giggles as she removes her nightgown and dresses her in the clothes of a great saint.

She arranges Hirune's blond hair and puts on a pendant to amplify her magical power.

　In no time at all, the Great Saint Hirune was complete.

(What is it? I feel sleepy when I get out of bed. ......)

“......haaah!”

　Hirune yawns loudly.

Jeanne looked at Hirune's whole body as she stood there in a daze.

　Her blond hair and blue eyes shone in her pure white saint's dress.

　She let out a small sigh as she admired the beauty of Hirune.

“She's beautiful. ......”

“Jeanne? Are you finished?"

　Hirune slid her gaze sleepily. When she saw the eyes glittering like a sea of stars, Jeanne came to her senses and nodded her head.

“I'm done. Everyone is waiting for us, let's go.”

“Yes, let's go.”

　Hirune and Jeanne left the room and headed for the chapel of the main church.

Chapter 2: Departure for the South

　In the chapel of the main church, Archbishop Zekyutos, Archbishop Zappan, and other priests were gathered, and when Hirune entered, they made the holy seal.

　Archbishop Zekyutos was a large man with a somewhat strong face, the crease between his eyebrows extending to the middle of his forehead. His face hardly moved, and the people involved had never seen him laughing before.

　Zekyutos urged Hirune to go in front of the statue of the Goddess.

(Is he asking me if I slept well?)

　Feeling his gaze on her, Hirune shook her head.

　Zekyutos closed his eyes and replied, "I see," and sternly opened the parchment in his hand. 

“The Great Saint Hirune will now be on her way to the southern land of Ixendahl. She will build a great church to heal the land defiled by the miasma, and pray for the peace of the land. Mephistopheles will fully support this and pledge to work to deepen the faith in the Goddess." 

　When Zekyutos finished, he made the holy seal.

　The southern region is a place where a lot of miasma is common and ‘demons’ possessed by the miasma roam around.

　Ixendahl is an important base in the south, a remote city surrounded by a large wall. Even now, people live in the city, fighting against the threat of demons.

　The reason why Ixendahl has not been abandoned until today was because the kingdom can’t afford to abandon the southern region, which boasts rich resources, and has been sending soldiers there on a regular basis.

　The Church of Mephistopheles has also sent many saints to the area.

　The southern region was large and is chronically overflowing with miasma, so they take trips in the form of pilgrimages to purify it. It was obvious that if they didn't do so, the miasma would eventually overflow into the central Royal Capital as well.

(It seems that the first difficult task for a new saint is to make a pilgrimage to the southern region, but ...... I'm a great saint who skipped that step. ...... Thanks to everyone, the world is peaceful.)

　Hirune remembered what Wanda had told her.

　Thanks to the efforts of the saints, the miasma is under control.

　The balance of the world has been maintained.

　That's the story.

(Are Great Saints really that great? I don't feel like anything has changed. ...... I'm sleepy. ......)

　Hirune bit back a yawn.

　In recent years, there have been many miasma outbreaks, and they were walking on a tightrope. The equilibrium between the purification and the miasma encroachment is slowly breaking down, and the number of refugees from the south is increasing.

　This was the best news that had come to the southern region, which was on the edge.

　A girl of only ten years old had appeared like a comet and become a great saint through the favor of the goddess.

　Not only the royal capital, but the whole world had high hopes for Hirune.

(I'd like to laze around while doing my best to purify in moderation…….) 

Hirune thought absentmindedly as she looked up at Zekyutos. 

She was at her own pace.

“Great Saint Hirune, would you accept the commission to the south?”

　Zekyutos asked politely.

　His low voice echoed in the chapel.

　Light spilled from the stained glass windows, and a serene air flowed through the chapel.

　Hirune, dressed in the clothes of a Great Saint, blinked at Zekyutos and looked at the priests gathered in the chapel.

(Of course I'll go. I want my own big church, you know. Fufufu.. ...... Let's go for the whitest company in all of Ever Sophia! Mainly three meals and a nap, four days off a week, irregular holidays ......)

　It was no longer a white company, it's more like a whimsical coffee shop run by an old retired man. It seems absolutely impossible, but it's good to have a dream.

"Yes, sir. Let's head there right now."

　Hirune said with a smile.

　The priests who were watching were so impressed that they carefully made the holy seal without anyone telling them to do so.

　Hearing the reply, Zekyutos also made the holy seal and began to chant the scripture.

　　　　　　　()

　The departure ceremony was over in about twenty minutes, and Hirune headed for the ranks gathered in the square of the main church.

　Hirune and Jeanne walked surrounded by priests.

“Hirune-sama, it's a three-week journey to the southern city of Ixendahl. Let's do our best."

　Seeing Jeanne's smile, Hirune froze.

(What? Three weeks? It's going to take three weeks?)

“Jeanne, is there something wrong with my hearing?”

"What's wrong? I thought I cleaned your ears yesterday. ......”

“Yes, I had my ears cleaned. It felt really good.”

“You can't do it again today, okay? Wanda said it's not good to do it every day.”

"I'm fine, I'll heal with holy magic. I'll ask you again today.”

“It's not good to do it every day. Let's do it in three days. Okay?"

"Well, ......, if Jeanne says so, I guess I have no choice. ......"

　As Hirune spoke, she noticed that the conversation was heading in a strange direction.

　Shaking her Great Saint robe, she coughed softly.

“We'll talk about ear cleaning later, I heard you say three weeks. Does it take three weeks to get to Ixendahl?”

“Yes, it does. Three weeks by carriage. If the demons appear, it’ll take even longer.”

“What ......!? a long journey without a bed!?”

　Hirune was despairing at the thought of three weeks without a bed.

　Jeanne smiled, as if she had expected it.

“There's nothing to do while you're on the road, Hirune-sama. No Bible readings, no rounds, no celebrations. You can doze off in the carriage as long as you like.”

"Oh, what a wonderful carriage ride. Let’s travel for two months instead of three weeks.”

　Hirune was quick to flip.

“If we travel for two months, the others will get tired.”

“That's true, too.”

　Hirune nodded.

“We'll be in the square soon, so please do your best to hold back your yawns.”

“I understand. I'll be careful......” 

　It was strange that the word "yawn" made her feel sleepy all of a sudden.

"Hah, Hirune-sama.” 

　Jeanne gave a wry smile as if to say, "what a troublesome person.”

　While they were talking, they arrived at the square.

　The southern brigade of the Mephistopheles Church was waiting in the square, and a white chalk carriage was waiting in the center of the formation.

(It’s Spectacular. There’s about a hundred soldiers and people from Mephistopheles traveling in different carriages. Since I'm going, they're all coming with me. ...... I'm starting to feel bad about that. ......)

　When the Great Saint Hirune arrived, the soldiers made the holy seal at once.

"--I wish you the blessing of the Goddess Sophia."

　Hirune mumbled this and quickly chanted the holy magic of purification, stardust fell on the soldiers' heads. The soldiers seemed to be moved by the glittering stardust, and their faces tightened. It seemed to have created a stronger feeling that they would definitely protect the Great Saint.

"Hirune-sama, please watch your step."

　Jeanne opened the door and Hirune got into the chalk- white carriage.

　Hirune looked in to see if anyone had entered first.

“You're late.”

“Holly. You're with me?”

　Hirune smiled at the happy miscalculation.

　Holly turned her head away when she saw Hirune’s big eyes crinkle.

“Actually, Wanda has assigned me to be your guardian.”

“Thank you for being my guardian. I can't do anything so I rely on you very much. I can be with you again."

　Hirune sat down next to Holly, looking happy.

　Jeanne also looked happy.

　Holly glanced at Hirune with a slight blush on her cheeks and shrugged her shoulders.

“It can't be helped. It's the role of a good saint to do these things.”

“Yes it is. Jeanne, it's good that Holly’s with us.”

“Yes.”

　Jeanne nodded, her smile shining like a sunflower plant.

“...... I always fall out of sorts with you guys. Haa, this is no good."

　Holly's cheeks twitched with an itchy look on her face.

　And so their journey south began.