Chapter 16: Saint
...
A Saint.
That is a person who is born once a century and possesses an extraordinary amount of Divinity, an energy even more profound than Mana.
They are revered as a being that bridges the gap between the God and Mortals. A being that can achieve strength that transcends the limit of human potential.
An Individual who is selfless, humble and compassionate.
A person so... pure.
...
"Miss, Cordelia, how did your prayer go?"
A young knight, draped in silver armor approached a woman sitting beneath a large oak tree.
His gaze swept over her serene and delicate features, feeling his heart skip a beat at the sight of her radiant beauty.
The sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled patterns across her form, illuminating her with an almost ethereal glow.
Her long, white hair cascaded down her shoulders in soft, flowing waves, catching the light and creating a halo effect around her head.
Her skin was fair and unblemished, glowing with an inner radiance that spoke of her extraordinary nature.
Her delicate features were composed in a tranquil expression, with a hint of a smile playing at the corners of her lips, as if she were in communion with a higher power.
She was a literal epitome of grace and beauty.
Cordelia turned her head slightly, acknowledging the young knight with a gentle nod.
Her eyes, a striking shade of blue, seemed to reflect the sky itself. She exuded an air of calm serenity, a stark contrast to the knight's barely concealed nervousness.
"It went well, Sir Nathan..."
She replied softly, her voice melodious and soothing.
"I offered my prayers for the safety and prosperity of our people."
Nathan stood awkwardly, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. He had faced many dangers in his young life as a knight, but none seemed as daunting as speaking to Cordelia.
Her presence was both awe-inspiring and intimidating.
"That's... that's good to hear..."
Nathan stammered, his hand unconsciously moving to rub the back of his neck.
"It's, um, it's always comforting to know that someone like you is praying for us."
Cordelia's smile widened ever so slightly, her eyes radiating warmth.
"Every prayer matters, Sir Nathan. Even yours."
Nathan's cheeks flushed, a faint blush coloring his otherwise pale complexion. He cleared his throat, desperate to prolong the conversation, yet unsure of what to say next.
"Have you... have you been here long, Miss Cordelia?"
"For a little while."
She answered, her gaze drifting back to the horizon.
"This tree has always been a place of peace for me. It helps me connect with the divine."
Nathan nodded, struggling to find his voice amidst the quiet reverence of the moment.
"It's a beautiful spot."
He agreed, then quickly added.
"Not as beautiful as you, of course."
He immediately regretted his words, feeling the heat rise to his face. But Cordelia's laughter, light and musical, dispelled his embarrassment.
"You flatter me, Sir Nathan."
She said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Nathan swallowed hard, his mind racing to think of another topic.
"Do you... do you ever get tired, Miss Cordelia? Of being, well, you know, a Saint?"
Cordelia's expression turned contemplative.
"There are moments of weariness, yes. But I find strength in my purpose and the love I have for our people. It is a gift, and I must honor it."
Nathan nodded, admiring her even more. He felt a surge of courage and asked.
"Is there anything I can do to help you, Miss Cordelia? Anything at all?"
Cordelia looked at him, her gaze piercing yet kind.
"Your willingness to serve is more than enough, Sir Nathan. Continue to be brave and kind, and you will be helping me more than you know."
Nathan bowed his head, feeling a sense of fulfillment and inspiration.
"Thank you, Miss Cordelia. I will do my best."
With a final nod, Cordelia rose gracefully from her spot beneath the tree.
"I must take my leave now. There is still much to be done."
As Cordelia gracefully walked away, Nathan sighed deeply, his eyes following her retreating form.
Cordelia made her way through the garden, her steps light and purposeful.
The flowers seemed to bloom brighter as she passed, their petals opening wide to soak in the sunlight.
Reaching the edge of the garden, she entered the massive corridors of the temple.
The walls were adorned with intricate carvings and stained glass windows depicting scenes of celestial beauty and divine intervention.
The air was filled with the faint scent of incense, mingling with the echoes of distant prayers and chants.
Eventually, Cordelia arrived at a door with a glowing halo above it, a symbol of the sacredness contained within.
She gently pushed the door open and stepped inside.
The room was bathed in a warm, golden light, its atmosphere filled with an aura of reverence and sanctity.
Behind a large, ornately carved table sat an old man dressed in white robes, his eyes kind and wise. He looked up as she entered, a welcoming smile spreading across his face.
"Cordelia, my child..."
The pope greeted warmly, rising from his seat.
"It is always a blessing to see you."
"Your Holiness."
Cordelia replied with a respectful bow.
"It is an honor to be in your presence."
The pope motioned for her to sit, and she gracefully took a seat opposite him.
He reached into one of the drawers of his desk and pulled out a sealed letter, its edges embossed with the insignia of Starfall Academy.
"This arrived for you today."
He said, handing her the letter.
"From Starfall Academy."
Cordelia accepted the letter, her curiosity piqued.
"Thank you, Your Holiness."
The pope nodded, his eyes twinkling with a mixture of curiosity and concern.
"I trust it brings good news, though I must admit, I am curious about its contents."
Cordelia carefully broke the seal and unfolded the letter, her eyes scanning the elegant script.
As she read, her expression shifted from curiosity to a smile that slowly blossomed across her young face.