Kays Translations

Chapter 8: The City of Iron and Smoke.

　The Southern Brigade arrived safely at the frontier city of Ixendahl after three weeks of travel.

　The outer walls of the city were clearly visible from the road over the hills.

　Black smoke was rising from everywhere all over the city.

　It was the smoke from burning demon coal.

　The rugged exterior walls protecting the city from demons and the black smoke rising from the city - the members of the brigade were fascinated by the appearance of the city, which was completely different from the royal capital.

“We're here," "Oh, so this is Ixendahl," and so on, as they looked at the frontier city below them and congratulated each other on their long journey. They also praised Hirune’s achievements, saying, "Long live the Great Saint Hirune.”

　Hirune’s wards were set up at important points along the road, making the trip more comfortable than it had been in recent years.

　On the other hand, the Great Saint Hirune was yawning loudly in the carriage, unaware that she was being thanked by ...... everyone.

"Ahhhh ...... ahhhh."

(It was a long, short ride, but we got there so fast. ......)

　Hirune, who was laying on Holly's lap, looked up at the ceiling of the carriage in a daze. 

"Hey, how long are you going to sleep?”

　Holly shook Hirune’s shoulder.

“I like the elasticity, it’s different from Jeanne's. It’s also kind of sticky, like a glutinous mochi. So, one more hour, please.”

"Please don't compare people’s thighs."

　Squinting her big hanging eyes, Holly pulled Hirune's cheeks.

"Hohi no Futo Hoho ih sofu. Fuhafuhadefu" (The Holly futton is so flexible and soft. It makes me sleepy)

"Are you trying to say I’m meaty ?! It’s strawberry bread’s fault for being so delicious."

"Hohi is Fuhinbo de Fuhe"(Holly’s a foody huh)

"You’re noisy. you, you."

"Hihai, Hihaidefu"( I’m sorry, I’m sorry).

　The saint pulled the Great Saint's cheek rather seriously.

　 Jeanne, the maid, was giggling.

　It was peaceful in the carriage.

　After a while of offense and defense on Holly’s knees, there was a knock on the carriage window.

　With a quick movement, Holly pulled her hands back and chanted a scripture to heal Hirune’s cheeks. With a twinkle of stardust, the pain receded from Hirune’s cheek. She then helped her up and leaned her back against the cushion. It was quick work.

"Okay."

　Holly gave Jeanne a look.

　Jeanne opened the window at Holly's signal.

"Yes, what can I do for you?"

“I'm sorry to interrupt your conversation. I'm Jeremy, Commander of the Southern Brigade.”

　The handsome knight commander bowed from his horse.

　　Jeanne also returned the bow.

“I've come to give my report to the Great Saint Hirune.”

“Please wait a moment.”

　When Jeanne turned around, Hirune got up and peeked out of the window.

"I greet  the Great Saint Hirune--"

　Jeremy, the leader of the group, made the holy seal.

　Hirune smiled back and glanced at Jeremy's thighs. His feet rested in the stirrups. His thighs were muscular.

(That knee pillow looks hard. Rejected.)

　Hirune was judging without permission.

“Hirune-sama, Thank you for your long journey. Thanks to your blessings, we were able to complete the journey without losing anyone, and I came here to express our gratitude”.

“I think it was because of your soldiers that everyone was able to travel with peace of mind. Thank you very much.”

"I’m at a loss for words, ma’am."

　Jeremy, the leader of the group, bowed respectfully.

　The smiling Hirune was an incarnation of the goddess Sophia herself. Her jewel-like blue eyes, long eyelashes, and dainty lips were in a small arc.

　Jeremy made the holy seal again at the sight of Hirune's divinity.

(A Bed, a bed, a bed! I can finally sleep in a proper bed. I'm also looking forward to the food in the south~. My Church 🎶... ... my own church🎶...)

　You can’t see the inside of the Great Saint’s brain, but I assure you that’s what she was thinking.

　Jeremy, the unaware Commander, showed his white teeth and raised one hand.

“Please take a look, Hirune-sama. The city you see below is the frontier city of Ixendahl.”

“It's a big city, isn't it?”

“Yes. It’s an important center for the kingdom.”

　Hirune turned her blue eyes forward.

　　Jeanne and Holly also looked out from the opposite window.

(We're surrounded by thick walls. The air is heavy ...... and there's a lot of smoke. I think it's a city that minted iron or silver?)

　As she listened to the rattling and clacking of the brigade's footsteps, Hirune stared at Ixendahl.

(The miasma may be close too ......)

　Hirune closed her eyes and used her holy magic to detect it.

　 Stardust glittered in the air, and information entered Hirune's mind.

(The miasma is coming pretty close ....... No wonder they're sending a bunch of saints here.)

　When Hirune opened her eyes, Jeremy, the leader who had been quietly watching the situation, made the holy seal.

“How does it look?”

“It's a land overflowing with miasma.”

“Yes, ....... We’ve been assigned by the king to be stationed in the frontier cities. We will protect and assure the safety of the city. Please Don't worry.”

"Yes, sir. I'm counting on you.”

“Ha! leave it to me!”

　The leader of the group, Jeremy, saluted and smiled.

“The people of the frontier cities are waiting for you, Hirune-sama. I hope you will show yourself to them first, so that they may admire your majesty and find hope for tomorrow.”

"Very well. I’ll be happy to do so.”

(For the sake of a good night's sleep, let's try to do this in moderation ......!)

　When Hirune replied, Commander Jeremy reverently made the holy seal and maneuvered the horse’s reins, returning back to the front.

　The frontier city of Ixendahl - also known as the city of iron and smoke.

　It was the kingdom's largest undeveloped land, with abundant ore and fertile soil that attracts people all the time.

　No one knew how the "City of Iron and Smoke" would be transformed by Hirune's arrival.

Chapter 9: The Great Church of the Great Saint.

　The brigade entered Ixendahl, the largest city in the southern region.

　Hirune poked her head out of the carriage, waving her hand with a smile, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from the people.

　At last, a great saint has come to the south!

　The citizens shed tears and hugged each other.

(It seems to have been very hard for them. ...... There are many marks in the city, traces of the demon attacks ......)

　Hirune felt unusually drowsy.

　The frontier city of Ixendahl was a rugged city.

　It was surrounded with walls, reinforced with steel plates that were completely colorless. It was filled with refugees who had lost their families or had fled after their villages were attacked.

　There were no trees on the main street, just a straight brick paved road designed for practical use.

 That was because if they had put anything unnecessary on the streets, people wouldn’t be able to easily escape in an emergency.

“It's so different from the royal capital.”

　Hirune murmured, looking at the tattered houses that had been recently destroyed.

“Yes, it is. It's a big difference between what you hear and what you see.”

　Holly replied, waving her hand to the people.

　Holly's face was smiling, but her voice was filled with sadness. Holly was a girl with a strong sense of justice. She felt her responsibility of being a saint.

“Hirune-sama, Holly-sama, they said that’s enough.”

　Jeanne, who had received instructions from a window in the back of the carriage, said to them.

　Hirune and Holly moved away from the carriage window and closed the curtains.

(This looks like a lot of work. ...... I hope I get a good night's sleep.)

　A sigh escaped from her.

　A heavy air hangs over the city of Ixendahl.

　It was not only the constant smoke from burning demon coal, but also the air of never-ending fatigue that enveloped the entire city. Everyone was living in fear of the miasma and the threat of demons.

(Well, as they say, if you live in a place, you live in a place, and if Holly and I can purify it little by little, we can manage to get by.)

　Hirune thought optimistically. When she felt relieved, her drowsiness returned.

“Fuaaah ~~~ ... Ahm"

　Holly and Jeanne, who had been looking seriously at the big yawn, looked at each other.

"Hirune  really is at her own pace ..."

"As expected of Hirune-sama! Let’s do our best as usual."

"Huh?"

　Hirune, who had missed their words because of her yawning, opened her big mouth and nodded her head.

Holly and Jeanne were strangely reassured by Hirune’s relaxed and usual attitude, and they couldn't help but laugh.

“Fufufu ...... the Great Saint is different, isn’t she”

“Yes, she is.”

“What is it? It's terrible to laugh in someone's face, you know."

　Hirune blinked her blue eyes and let out a small yawn.

　　　　　　()

　 They arrived at the Mephistopheles church on the south side of the city, and the carriage entered the premises.

“It's a big place. It looks like there's another church on the hill at the back.”

　A little hill can be seen behind the church.

　It looked like a huge park set up in the city.

　There was an old church, and behind it was a grassy plaza.

　At the top of the hill, they saw a large temple-like building. It seemed to have been half destroyed, or perhaps it was still intact.

　When Hirune flipped on the Great Saint's robe and got off the carriage, one of the Mephistopheles priests was waiting for her.

“Great Saint Hirune, ...... we've been waiting for you."

　An old man dressed in a priest’s robe made the holy seal.

　He was a man with kind eyes and a star-shaped stain on his forehead.

“I am Archbishop Zigitoria of the Southern Branch of the Mephistopheles Church. I've heard rumors that you looked ...... like the beautiful Goddess Sophia."

　His voice quivered, as Zigitoria was thrilled to see Hirune.

　Archbishop Zigitoria was in charge of the southern branch. As the archbishop of a local church, he is treated as one rank below Zekyutos.

　He exuded the aura of a hard worker.

“It is my pleasure to work with you. I have a lot of inadequacies, so I would appreciate it if you could teach me.”

　Hirune gave a big a bow.

"You’re very young, but also very strong."

　Zigitoria smiled then turned his attention to Holly, who came out of the carriage.

“Saint Holly, we've been expecting you. The youngest saint along with Hirune. The Southern Chapter is pleased to welcome you."

　Holly received the greeting and carefully made the holy seal.

“It's a pleasure to meet you as well. I've heard of your accomplishments, Archbishop Zigitoria. Everyone knows that it was you who spread the existence of Mephistopheles religion to the southern regions.”

"That’s ridiculous. It was only through the guidance of the Goddess Sophia.” 

　Without further greetings, Archbishop Zigitoria gave them a tour of the churches of the southern branch.

　Hirune, Jeanne and Holly. Then Wanda, the educator, followed suit.

"This is the chapel."

　Zigitoria said reverently.

　The chapel was old, and the walls had been repaired many times, but it was filled with tranquility and cleanliness.

　The priests and maids from the main church of Mephistopheles, who were members of the brigade, dispersed to their respective posts. The soldiers and the civilians who had followed Hirune prayed in the chapel and disbanded to do what they had to do.

　Hirune, Holly, and Jeanne exchanged greetings with Thomas, the manager of the Valhalla bedding store, Phi Phi, the baker, the manager of the skewer stall, and other good friends, then parted ways.

(The journey’s over, isn't it? ......)

　 Hirune felt a tad sad and lonely, but instead thought about her new life.

　After praying in the chapel, Archbishop Zigitoria urged them to go inside the church.

　The sounds of them walking in the hallway echoed.

"Hirune-sama, you can call me Zigi.”

"Zigi?"

　She parroted back.

　Holly and Wanda quickly tapped her on the shoulder in a panic.

“Hirune, it's outrageous that you call him by any nickname. ......!”

“That’s right, Hirune. Archbishop Zigitoria is called the father of the South. Even Archbishop Zekyutos respects him, you know?"

　Holly and Wanda said in a stereotypical way from both sides.

　But Hirune wasn't really listening.

(Zigi-sama or ......  something nice. It reminds me of my grandfather.)

　It reminded her of her grandfather, whom she had met several times as a child.

　During summer vacation, when they went to visit her mother's family, he'd cut her some watermelon. She also remembered him buying her sweets at the candy store.

Hirune felt happy as she recalled the past one scene after another as if a switch had been turned on in her memory.

　She naturally smiled and looked at Zigitoria, who was walking next to her.

“Yes. I understand. Please call me Hirune, Zigi-sama.”

　He wasn’t expecting Hirune to agree, so Zigitoria was frozen just for a moment, then he quickly broke into a smile.

"Ho-ho-ho-ho. Zigi-sama, yes, yes. That's very good. Then feel free to call me that Hirune.

"Yes."

　Zigitoria smiled at her as if he was looking at his granddaughter, and Hirune smiled and nodded back.

Holly and Wanda sighed as if to say, "It can't be helped," while Jeanne, walking behind them, smiled at Hirune’s behavior as usual.

“Zigi-sama, can I ask you a question?”

“What is it, Hirune?"

　The two of them immediately started calling each other by their newly decided names.

“What's wrong with the star-like spots on your forehead? Is it because of the stardust?”

"It's been there since I was born. Every time I meet the Goddess Sophia, it gets bigger.”

“You've met Sophia?!”

（Zigi-sama’s met her too!)

　Hirune was so happy and looked into Zigitoria's eyes.

　Holly, Wanda, and Jeanne were also curious about the story and looked at Zigitoria.

 "When I pray, she appears to me at a moment's notice. My eyes can only see a vague outline. ......"

　He said so and narrowed his eyes.

“I see. I've met her too! She's very beautiful and kind! I love her!”

"What, you've met ......?"

"Yes. She has blond hair and is tall. She wears a tiara on her forehead.”

"Oh, ...... oh, ......."

　Zigitoria was so impressed that he stopped and shivered.

“that’s wonderful, Hirune. I’m in awe ...... I hope to see her face  someday ......."

　Zigitoria made the holy seal several times.

　Holly and Wanda also made the holy seal.

(I want to see you again,...... Goddess.  We promised to take a nap, didn't we?)

　Hirune smiled, remembering the Goddess's luxurious blonde hair. It would be nice to take a nap together, she thought.

　After a while, Zigitoria resumed the tour.

　The group walked inside the church and then went outside to a square with a continuous lawn, the grassy plaza.

Zigitoria turned to the half-demolished building on top of the hill and looked at Hirune.

“That's the Great Church, where the former Great Saint lived. Because of the threat of demons, it cannot be repaired .......or be used.”

He spoke with as little emotion as possible, but she could sense the sadness from Archbishop Zigitoria.

　Hirune looked up at the far end of the green-tinted lawn.

　The large church was a pile of rubble, with only a few traces of the beautiful building it had once been. It looked like a pile of broken blocks. The entrance and the steeple on the roof were still intact, and in some places she could see ornaments of the goddess carved on them.

(That's the Great church where the previous great saint was ....... I don't know what it is ......, but it makes me feel like I've come home ...... and it feels like it’s calling me…..?)

Hirune couldn't stand it any longer and ran across the lawn.

"Ah! Hirune!"

"Hirune-sama ?!"

　Holly and Jeanne noticed and chased after her.

　Zigitoria and Wanda, bewildered, hurried after her.

(It's calling ...... me ......!)

　The sound of kicking grass echoed, and the smell of blue grass tickled her nose.

　She wasn’t very athletic, so she was quickly losing her breath.

“Hah ...... hah ......”

　Hirune ran up the hill and looked up at the crumbling great church.

　It was barely possible to get inside through the entrance.

(It's cool ...... and there's a magic circle painted on the floor. ......)

　It was clean, except for the piles of rubble.

“Hah ...... phew ...... phew ......."

　Sunlight filtered in through the crumbling walls, and she could see the floating dust drifting about at will like stardust. Only the statue of the goddess in front of her was still in beautiful shape. 

　As Hirune looked up blankly, catching her breath, Holly and Jeanne came up next to her.

“Hah ...... hah ...... what's wrong with you all of a sudden? If you're going to start running, just tell me.”

“Huuh . I was worried that you’d fall.”

Holly asks breathlessly, Jeanne has a worried look on her face. 　 

　Hirune makes no reply.

　The two of them looked at Hirune's blue eyes from the side and looked up at the statue of the Goddess out of the corner of their eye.

“The statue of the Goddess ...... it’s so beautiful.”

“It's different from the statue in the main church......”

　Holly and Jeanne murmured with deep emotion, and Hirune turned around.

“I've decided. I'm going to sleep here from today on. It's a very cozy place!"

　Hirune's blue eyes sparkled as she looked up at the ceiling of the half-demolished church.

"What?!”

"What?!”

Holly and Jeanne's startled voices echoed, and Archbishop Zigitoria and Wanda, who had caught up with them, widened their eyes as if they had heard what Hirune said.

Chapter 10: The Premonition of a Good Sleep.

　The half-demolished Great Church of the former Great Saint.

　The moment Hirune entered, she decided to live there.

(I have a premonition of a good night's sleep.....!)

"Somehow, I really liked it."

“What do you mean you like it?”

 “Hirune-sama, this is a little......"

　Holly raised her voice while Jeanne looked around.

“It's a wonderful place.”

　It was Wanda who scolded Hirune for saying that.

　She turned her sharp eyes and made her gaze stern.

“It's unacceptable to sleep in a place where rain comes in and you never know when it will collapse. Hirune, until the repairs are finished, you will sleep in the church below.”

“No, I don't want to. I want to stay here.”

“You’re very important. If the Great Saint decides to live here, I’m afraid that the other priests will be too afraid to sleep in a proper bed. It will be repaired eventually. For now, be patient."

"I’ll live here no matter what anyone says. I like it here."

　Hirune ran and clung to the large statue of the goddess.

　She was like a small cicada.

“I am now one with the Goddess. I  won’t let go.”

　The Great Saint pressed her cheeks against the statue, her face caving in.

　Wanda and Holly let out a huge sigh.

For once, Jeanne didn't know what to do and was flustered.

　When Archbishop Zigitoria saw Hirune attached to the statue of the Goddess, he took a step forward and reverently hung his head. Then he began to shed tears.

“Archbishop Zigitoria, ......?”

　Wanda exclaimed in surprise.

Zigitoria opened his mouth, without worrying about it.

“Great Saint Hirune…..I understand how you feel..….. When I was a child, the Great Saint lived in this great church. ......"

　Zigitoria looked up at the half-destroyed chapel.

“It was once a place where stardust danced, where devoted believers gathered, and where holy beasts played. ...... It was beautiful and a symbol of happiness...... . Many decades ago, Ixendahl was a city full of laughter.

　Zigitoria’s eyes lit up like a little boy's as if he was remembering the past.

“I have always dreamed that one day the Great Saints would come here ....... Thousands of hours have passed since then,......, and I have had the greatest luck in welcoming the Great Saint to the Southern Church.”

"Zigi-sama......."

　Hirune looked at Zigitoria.

　Through his eyes, the Ixendahl of the past came to mind.

(So ...... it was a nice city with no danger. ......)

“I am well aware of the wishes of the Great Saint Hirune. I'll have them bring you what you need."

"Zigi-sama ......!"

　Hirune left the statue of the Goddess and hugged Zigitoria.

“Hirune ......, this is your home from now on.”

“Thank you, Zigi-sama.”

“It's okay. I'm sure it was the former Great Saint Martine who called you.”

Zigitoria patted Hirune on the back with a plop, slowly moved away, and looked at Jeanne.

“Well, it’s going to be a busy day. Miss maid, what is your name?”

“My name is Jeanne.”

　Jeanne straightened her back and answered crisply.

“You’re a very reliable maid. Please tell the head maid about this. I'm sure she'll be eager to help you prepare."

"Very well, sir."

　Jeanne bowed then ran off in a flash.

With the blessings of fatigue reduction and quickness, she ran like a gale. Her maid's uniform fluttered to the side, and she was out of sight in seconds.

"Zigitoria-sama ......, are you sure it’s okay?"

　Wanda couldn’t help but ask. She was indeed worried.

　Zigitoria nodded with a calm expression, like an Archbishop.

“We have tried many times to repair this great church, but all of our attempts have failed. I'm sure it was waiting for the Saint's return.”

"Is that so?"

　Wanda looked at him, interested.

　Hirune and Holly also moved closer.

“The Great Church never collapsed, no matter how much it rained. Instead, as if it did not want to be touched by human hands, when it was repaired, it reverted to its original state before we knew it. ...... The current half-demolished state has lasted for forty years now. It's a famous story in Ixendahl.

“I didn't know there was such a story. ...... Please forgive my ignorance.”

　Wanda bowed her head.

　If she had known the story from the beginning,  she would have thought differently.

“It's all right. It's a story that doesn't need to be told in the Royal Capital."

　Zigitoria smiled, then bowed.

"Um, ......Zigitoria-sama, Wanda-sama?"

　Holly, who had been quiet for a long time, looked up at them as if she was having trouble saying it.

“What is it, Holly?”

“Can I stay here too? I'm worried about leaving her alone, and I'm starting to like this big church.”

　Holly said shyly, glancing at Hirune.

"Holly! Let's do that!"

　Hirune was so happy that she hugged Holly tightly.

"Hey,  not in front of the Archbishop...... please stop….”

Holly was seriously embarrassed and tried to wriggle out of Hirune’s hold.

　Hirune, who became a clinging insect, pressed her face against Holly’s, determined not to let go.

“We'll sleep together every day. Right?"

“Saints are supposed to sleep separately. So No, you can't. Now, get away from me.”

　Holly's light blue hair and Hirune’s blonde hair crossed, and the saint's dress fluttered.

Wanda sighed and pulled them apart, as if she couldn't stand to look at them anymore.

“Any more of that and you'll be cleaning the thousand-hall corridors.’

　Hirune and Holly stopped moving and stood upright.

“I'm sorry.”

“I'm sorry."

　The Great Saint and Saint apologized immediately.

　Cleaning the thousand-hall corridors takes a lot of time, and it's embarrassing to be seen, and they would prefer to avoid it if possible.

Wanda smiled at her troubled children, and Zigitoria, who had been watching the whole thing, laughed happily.

"Ho ho ho ho" he happily laughed.

　For the first time in forty years, the sound of joyful laughter echoed through the Great church.

Chapter 11: Light on the Barrier.

　The Great Saint Hirune lives in the half-destroyed Great church.

　This rumor quickly spread through the frontier city of Ixendahl.

　Even the skeptical citizens, who had thought that the ten-year-old Great Saint was just a figment of imagination, were moved by this news, and the city came alive with the hope that peace would finally come to Ixendahl.

　The city was in a joyous mood, but soon it became dusk, and then the night fell.

　The citizens, who were busy living in the moment, welcomed the night with hope for tomorrow.

　Meanwhile, one of the soldiers guarding the city stared out from a five-meter high wall.

“The sun is setting. Our guests are arriving.”

　He said in a thick voice.

　The young soldiers, who seemed to be his subordinates, nervously dipped their swords into the holy water in the barrels.

　The holy water was the only way for ordinary people without access to holy magic to fight the miasma.

“The Great Saint‘s arrival won't change that. We’ll protect the city with our blood and vomit. That's all."

　The man with the large scar on his face was the troop leader in charge of the east gate, where the miasma often occurs. He was a veteran soldier who has been in the field from the age of sixteen till forty. His life has been a struggle. Many of his colleagues have lost their lives in the fight against demons.

"Whether you die too soon or too late, the fake smiles of the people who live in fear beyond the spring will always be there..."

　This was a song he had heard a bard sing in a tavern once upon a time.

“Hmmm…..it’s a painful song. The next time I see that bard,  I'll ask him for my silver coins back.”

　He ran a hand down his increasingly wrinkled cheek, traced his fingers over an old scar, and smiled thinly.

"All right! Light the torches! Burn the demon coal! Let's have another demon and miasma dance party tonight!”

　Under his command, the torches lit up the defensive fence of the wall.

　Night is coming.

　The lights come on.

　The lights lit up all around the entire defensive wall of the frontier city of Ixendahl.

　The west, south, and north gates also seemed to have issued orders.

　The captain looked at the familiar scene of every night and thought that the frontier city of Ixendahl was like a shipwreck in the deep sea. He missed the sea town he had lived in as a child.

 "......, what's the matter? Did you get scared?"

　The unit Captain spotted a new soldier and called out to him.

　By all accounts, he could not hide his nervousness. His shoulders were hunched and his grip on his sword was tight.

“Relax," he said. “What are you going to do if you get tired now?”

　He patted the nervous newcomer on the back.

　The sound of clashing armor and gauntlets echoed.

"Hai! (Yes)"

　Hearing the newcomer's reassuring answer, the soldiers around him burst into laughter.

　The commander smiled and raised his face, remembering his youth.

“Look, this is an order! Don't die! If you die, I’ll kill you all again in hell. If you're afraid, laugh! Pray to the Goddess Sophia! It would be a bad omen if anyone dies on the first day of the Great Saints' visit! Get into the spirit!"

　To the Captain's loud voice, "Yes!” The soldiers replied.

　The new soldier nodded, his eyebrows furrowed.

　The captain felt reassured, but he also knew from experience that if he was unlucky, this guy would die.

“Here it comes!"

　The miasma was slowly seeping out from the darkness outside the barrier.

　There are three types of miasma.

　The Fog type, which is a collection of bad negative energy.

　The possession type, in which the fog-type miasma transfers to an object, 

　The other type is the monster type, in which the noxious miasma clumps together to form a monster.

　The only way to get rid of them was to purify them with holy power.

"Don't let the fog type enter the city! Archers, keep your eyes in the air!"

　In the direction the captain pointed, arrows soaked in holy water flew in a blur.

　Then came a succession of demons that climbed the protective wall. There were too many of them tonight, and in no time they had climbed the five-meter wall, and a battle ensued.

“Don't break ranks! Bring the demon coal to the possessed tree types!"

　The roars of the soldiers echoed, and swords sliced through the demons. As the light from the demon coal explodes, it creates a momentary glow as if a life was burning. Soldiers and miasma mingled on the stage, which was colored by the strange sounds of sword fights and sparks.

"Be sure of yourself!　　We've got the Great Saint and the Saints with us!

"Yes!”

　They couldn't even let their guards down for a moment.

　The miasma could possess humans as well.

　The captain waved his longsword and looked at the location of the newcomer.

"That guy ......."

　The newcomer was swinging his sword selflessly to cut away the miasma. But it was a bad location. He was about to fall off the barrier. He didn't even notice that there was a dog-shaped demon behind him.

"New guy!"

　The captain threw his longsword.

“--Gaaaah!"

The demon dog was pierced and it let out a scream. The effect of the sword with the holy water was tremendous.

　The captain pulled out his longsword, dipped it in the holy water that was nearby, cut off the demon, and stood next to the newcomer.

　The newcomer was absentminded.

"Hey! Take a good look around and fight! Follow me!"

"Yes, sir!"

　After that, the battle continued for about an hour.

　The miasma was tireless, appearing one after the other. It was a complete war of attrition.

"Captain, how long will this last?"

　The newcomer asked during the battle, wiping with his sleeve repeatedly, he couldn't stop sweating.

"Until dawn."

"......"

“It's the same as always. It's always good to eat at dawn. This is an exercise for food. Isn't that right?" *

　The captain smiled fiercely and swung his sword.

　The newcomer also smiled and said, "Yes, sir.”

　That's when it happened. A high-pitched whistle sounded.

"Giant demon form approaching from three o'clock! Repeat. Giant demon type approaching from three o'clock!”

　The captain immediately turned his gaze to the darkness.

　A huge shadow was quietly making its way towards them. It was big as the protective barrier.

　He clicked his tongue and ran through the barrier, shouting to the messenger soldiers waiting on the city side.

“Call the saints! Now! There's a big one coming!'

“Saint Ekaterina and Saint Tatiana are in the process of purification at the north and south gates! They can't move for the time being!”

　At present, the defense of Ixendahl was being carried out by a rotation of personnel that were somehow getting by.

　The saints purified the surroundings while the sun was still up to suppress the generation of miasma at night. There were only two saints on duty.

"We can't defeat that thing without holy magic! Run to the church! Tell them it's an emergency!”

“Yes, sir!”

　The unit Captain watched the back of the messenger run and clenched his back teeth.

　The priests of the Mephistopheles Church we’re also doing a great job. It was thanks to them that they’ve been able to defend the city so far. However, the timing was too bad. With the arrival of the Great Saint, personnel changes were taking place in the church. There were few people who could move today.

“It's like the arrival of the Great Saint coincided with the attack of the big guy. ......”

"Captain ......"

　　Perhaps the new guy also saw the huge shadow, his face went pale.

“You need to back off. You're too young to die.”

　The captain said, and the newcomer shook his head.

“I've lost my ...... village, so I want to pay them back ......!”

“You have your reasons,...... that's fine. But It's a good idea not to die if you can help it. If you live, the saints will heal your wounds.”

“Yes!”

　The soldiers around them raised their swords as if in response to the conversation between the two.

“It's time for me to go to hell too.”

It was at that moment that the captain of the unit took the initiative and put his foot on the edge of the wall to strike a blow at the giant demon.

　All of a sudden, a dazzling light shone from behind him.

"Aah!"

　Countless stardust danced in the air, and a translucent magic barrier spread from the inside of the city to the outside.

　The magical barrier completely covered the barrier and enveloped the frontier city of Ixendahl in a hemispherical shape.

　The captain looked up at the sky in surprise.

With a shuffling sound, the stardust gathered together and took the shape of a small girl. And then the stardust girl started shooting purification magic from her fingers.

　There was a bang here and there, and the sound of the demon's demise and the scraping of the stardust echoed.

“What the heck is this...... ?”

In his excitement, the unit leader threw off the helmet he was wearing and held out his hands.

　The giant demons were bathed in continuous purification magic and evaporated while making bizarre "gah gah gah" noises. The countless miasma that had been looming over the city hit the magic barrier and dissipated in seconds. They found themselves in a sea of stardust.

　The soldiers stood still and stared at the girl who had been formed by the stardust, stunned. She looked like a small doll. The newcomer was also staring at the fascinating holy magic with his mouth hanging open.

"Report! Report to the captain!  Where is the captain?”

　A messenger called out from under the defense wall.

The unit leader rushed to turn around and leaned forward with his hands on the wall.

“What's happened!”

　The messenger shouted, seemingly bursting with joy.

“When I sent a message to the church, Great Saint Hirune immediately used holy magic to protect the entire Ixendahl...... !”

"......!"

A hot, indescribable feeling welled up in the captain's chest. His throat tightened, yet a strangely comforting heat ran through his body.

"Great Saint ......, you really did it ......!”

　He felt like screaming.

　The captain could not stop the corners of his mouth from rising.

"A message from the Great Saint Hirune to the captain!"

"What?! A message from the Great Saint to me !?"

“Yes, sir! What I'm about to say must be obeyed!”

　The messenger was proud of himself as if it was his credit.

“I will tell you the original message as it is! The Captain is to sleep in his bed tonight. You are to go to bed at eleven o'clock. I'll be going to bed as well... that's all, from the Great Saint Hirune!”

"In bed ...... at eleven ......."

　The captain bit down on the meaning of the words and looked over the barrier.

　As if the battle from earlier had been a lie, the soldiers had lowered their weapons, squared their shoulders and raised their fists. The miasma and demons were evaporating, blocked by the magical barrier of the Great Saint. A Small stardust doll was purifying the large ones.

　He noticed that there were no more demons or miasma around the barrier.

"I don't have to fight ...... anymore?"

"Yes, that’s right! Look at this! I've never seen warding magic like this before!”

“Ha ha ha. ...... I never thought this would happen. ......”

“Yes! We can’t thank you enough, Great Saint Hirune!”

　The captain was on the verge of tears and opened his mouth to cover them up.

“Well, you got married recently, didn't you? You want to go back to your wife, don't you?"

“Yes, my wife will be very happy to see me!”

“Ha, good for you.”

　The commander saw the joyful look on the messenger's face and smiled.

“It's a good thing. Tell the troops to withdraw from the east gate, leaving only the soldiers on guard. If the Great Saint says she will protect it, she will protect it.”

“Yes, sir! I repeat the message. Unit leader Carlos will go to bed at eleven o'clock, and the rest of the unit will withdraw, leaving only the guards! If the contents are correct, I will send the message!”

　The messenger shouts loudly with his chest out.

　Carlos, the captain of the unit, raised his hands in a pose of surrender and nodded curtly.

“I understand. I can't refuse a direct order from the Great Saint. All right, then, give the word.”

"Yes, sir!"

　The messenger saluted and ran briskly.

　Captain Carlos looked up at the night sky.

　The translucent magic barrier emitted a slight glow.

　The faces of his dead comrades floated in and out of his ...... mind, wondering how eagerly he had longed for this light.

“..... I don't think I'm going to be able to sleep tonight with all the excitement."

　Captain Carlos wiped his eyes roughly with his sleeves and muttered.

There were cheers from the soldiers all around him.

　When he tried to pick up the helmet he had tossed earlier, a girl formed of a collection of stardust flew fluffy and laid down on the helmet. She yawned loudly with human-like movements, made a nose lantern of stardust, and began to sleep soundly.

It seems that the little girl made of stardust was lazy.

　Captain Carlos saw this and smiled.

"The Great Saint of Dozing ...... Apparently the rumors are true."

　He gently lifted his helmet so as not to wake up the sleeping stardust girl.

Chapter 12: The Beginning of a Day 　

 　On the first night, Hirune, who had used the warding magic starting from the statue of the goddess, was asleep, glittering with the residue of stardust. 　

 　She had set the ward to automatically stop in the morning. 　 

　It was not active now. 

　--Chirp Chirp.

A small red bird, native to the southern region, chirped outside the Great Church. 　 

　The morning sun was spilling into the crumbling Church, casting light on the large bed. 

　 　A number of makeshift partitions were set up, separated by lace. It took a whole day to create the appearance of a Great Saint’s room.

“ You’re sleeping ......so comfortably.”

Jeanne, who had woken up earlier, finished her morning maid duties and looked into Hirune’s sleeping face.

　A custom-made mattress and a slightly old-fashioned comforter that she called her partner.

　Her long blond hair was shining in the morning sun.

 "Mmm......mnya......" 

　 　Perhaps the light was too bright, Hirune turned over in her sleep.

　Jeanne giggled at the adorable gesture and poked her cheeks.

 　She couldn't help but smile at the soft elasticity of the cheeks.

　It's hard to believe that this tiny body could have created a ward to protect the entire frontier city.

 　 　The statue of the goddess that was used as the starting point for the warding magic was also looking down at Hirune with a somewhat happy look.

 “Hirune-sama......Hirune-sama......”

　 Ending her privilege of being the resident maid, Jeanne gently shook Hirune.

"......Hmmm"

“ It's morning, Hirune-sama. It's time for prayer.”

 "Hmmm......? Jeanne~" 　

 Hirune slightly opened her eyes and hugged Jeanne's waist, who was standing by the bed. 　 

　　 Jeanne lets out an "oh" as she is pulled closer.

"Thirty minutes more... Guu ..."

 　The great saint immediately fell asleep while in the embrace. 

"Hirune-sama? You see, morning prayers and breakfast are waiting. There's also freshly baked bread. Thanks to Hirune-sama's ward, the citizens are very happy. A lot of donations have been made."

 "What was that…?" 　

 　The great saint of cash rubbed her eyes.

 “There are cheeses, seasonal grape-nuts, pears and a lot of other things. ......” 

“What about futons?”

“ Unfortunately, there was no donation of a futon....... "

“Oh my gosh ......guu......"

　 　Perhaps she was in shock, but Hirune took her hands off Jeanne, threw her arms over the edge of the bed, and started to sleep again. 

“Oh my, Hirune-sama, if you don't get up soon, you won't be in time for prayer."

 　 　Jeanne puts Hirune's body back on the bed with a “yosh, yosh”, flipped her over like an okonomiyaki, and stripped off her partner with an expert hand. She was starting to get serious.

 "Ahh, my partner. Buddy!" 

　 　Hirune opened her eyes, it was cold. 　 

 　 　Jeanne took Hirune's hands and pulled her up, then she pulled her out of bed by her sides and stood her upright.

"I’m sleepy~"

　Because of her lack of strength, Hirune's body was squishy like konjac. {TN: A kind of food}

Jeanne took Hirune in her arms, moved her to a chair and gently sat her down.

 “I'm going to fix your hair.”

“...... Mmm." 　 

　　She was so sleepy and dazed.

　Jeanne smiled and held her wobbly head as she carefully arranged her hair.

　　　

　　 　　　　　　　() 

　After about twenty minutes, Hirune finally woke up, let out a yawn, and rubbed her eyes with the sleeve of her nightgown. 

“Jeanne, good morning.”

 “Good morning, Hirune-sama. Can you stand up?”

“Sure, I’m ready”

“ Excuse me.”　 

　 　 With a breath of fresh air, Hirune did a Hail Mary pose, and Jeanne quickly changed her into her Great Saint's clothes.

 (Yes, ...... Jeanne's handiwork is fast ...... and professional, thank you ...)

　It only took a few minutes, and Hirune left the Great Church.

“ It's a beautiful day, isn't it?”

“Yes, it is. It doesn’t rain in the south this time of year.”

“Is that so?”

“ Yes.”

　 　Hirune gazed at the expanse of grass, then slowly walked to the Church at the bottom of the hill.

 　　There was the crisp sound of stepping on the grass, and grasshopper-like insects jumping.

“ It's so peaceful. ...... It makes me want to take a nap.”

“It's still morning, Hirune-sama.”

“After the prayers are over and we’ve eaten breakfast, we can take a nap today. We'll spread a cloth on the lawn, lay out a futon on top of it, and take a nap together.”

 (It’s time for a slumber.)

　Hirune giggled as she fantasized about her dazzling nap.

 　But she forgot that she was a great saint.

 　Jeanne smiled and nodded her head stiffly.

“That's a wonderful suggestion, but after the prayers today, we will have to meet the saints posted to the south, go on a tour of the commercial district of Ixendahl, read the Bible at the House of the Lord, and recite scripture in the Great Square. In your spare time, you have the opportunity to meet with the craftsmen who are rebuilding the Great Church. ......" 　

"..."

　At Jeanne's quick words, Hirune fell straight onto the grass.

　Seeing Hirune’s sudden collapse, Jeanne called out, “Hirune-sama.”

“What is it? All of a sudden my body started to feel sick. Hmmm, this is not good, it's a disease where you can’t get up. I can’t get up, I’m sick.”

 　Hirune rolled over on the grass and laid down on her back.

 “Hirune-sama, please don't sleep here!”   

　 　 In a panic, Jeanne rushed to reach out and help Hirune up.

　But this Great Saint intended to escape.

“ I am the earth. I live with all living things.” 

“Don't say something like that and close your eyes. Oh! Don't run away with holy magic! Hirune-sama!”

 　 　Hirune used holy magic to lift her body up with stardust and began to flee, flying low like a flying carpet.

"Farewell, Jeanne. Until we meet again--" 　 

　Hirune flies away on a carpet of glittering stardust. 　 

　It was a fantastic sight to see a beautiful blonde girl riding on a carpet of stardust, but the fact that she was trying to escape from her duties was foolish. It was not something to be shown to the citizens who had deepened their faith in Mephistopheles through last night's warding. 

“Hiiiirrrunneee-sssaaaammmaaa!!!!”

　 　Jeanne dashed after her. 　 

　After a few minutes of playing tag, Jeanne made a diving catch and took Hirune into custody

“I've got you! I'm taking you in!” 

“I’m Not guilty! I'm not guilty!”

"It’s no good. Let's go, shall we?”

“I'm the earth. It’s not about going or not going!”

“I don't understand, Hirune-sama.”

 　Jeanne firmly held her hand, and dragged her down the grassy hill.

“Noo, it shouldn’t be like this. It's because the Great Church hasn’t been repaired isn't it? When it's my Church, I should be the one who rules!”

"I'm sure you will, Hirune-sama." 　

 　Jeanne laughed and pulled Hirune towards the Church at the bottom of the hill.

“ We must hurry to complete the Great Church.”

(It's urgent, Urgent. ...... to spend a leisurely life!)

“Now, Hirune-sama, Please stand firm on your own." 　 

　When they arrived in front of the church, Jeanne took her hands off and bowed. 　

 　The maids who were cleaning the church noticed Hirune and Jeanne and bowed deeply, saying, "Good morning, Great Saint Hirune.”

　 Resignedly, Hirune straightened up and walked to the chapel.

“Good morning, everyone.”

 　 　And so began the second day of her assignment in the frontier city of Ixendahl.