The next day I got up in a daze. Huh, I feel like I had a strange dream, but I can’t remember it.

Whatever, let’s just start practicing. Once I strain my veins, I can start studying while waiting for them to recover, hitting three birds with, well, probably two stones. But that’s good enough!

I then practice again as I head out to breakfast. Hmm, I should do this before every meal.

After eating, Melly asked. “Are you going to the training ground again?”

“Of course! Though I won’t be able to heal as much as normal.” I sigh.

“That’s fine, just go at your own pace.”

“Oh! I should talk to The Cardinal first. I need some advice.”

“Okay, let’s go together then.”

“Sounds good.” I agree, before heading off with her.

After telling the priestess that didn’t like me, who I think might be the Cardinal’s secretary, I was immediately brought to the Cardinal. Oddly enough, she didn’t seem as hostile today.

“Saintess, I heard that you needed to talk to me?” Cardinal Caitlyn asks.

“Yes. So, since the actual power of my mana is increasing, my mana veins are starting to get strained. As such, I’ve been needing to keep healing them. While I did find a way to reduce their strain, I still need a better vein spell. So, I was wondering which one I should learn.”

“I take it that learning multiple is out of the question?”

“For now, at least. Even if I don’t train, the completion of my fusion will happen eventually. So, I am on a time constraint. And, if I can’t train my veins enough, I will struggle to cast spells. I was already noticing difficulties on the first day.” I sigh.

“Already? That is concerning. I didn’t realize that subduing the dragon would only be the start of your issues. Wait, does that mean…”

“Yeah, I don’t think my veins physically can get strong enough to handle the strain. Luckily the Hero has taught me a method to utilize less dense mana, but I need to also train with it, especially while casting spells.”

“You also got the dragon to submit, so you’re going to gain even more power than usual.” Melly points out.

“She’s right. Don’t worry though, we will help you with this.” Cardinal Caitlyn says, pulling out a spell encyclopedia from a shelf. “In that case, I believe you should either learn this spell, then this spell. Or you should just learn this spell. It really depends on if I can get you a teacher soon enough though.”

The first choice was a true mid-tier spell, followed by a low-end high-tier spell. The other choice was an upper mid-tier spell. That’s fairly similar to what my plan was, though I’m curious as to how a teacher would change things.

“How would a teacher change your choice?” I ask.

“Well, with a proper teacher, you can learn one of the peak spells.”

“You mean, the ones Melly said had martial techniques?”

“Yes. Those spells make you capable of surpassing your innate limits, though even that still has limits. While which one you start with doesn't matter all that much, mastering all three standard ones is needed to maximize your growth.”

“I didn’t realize that they increased your limits! No wonder they were so strange.”

“In that case, why don’t more spells have martial techniques?” Melly asks.

“First, because only those near the limit would benefit from increasing said limit. Secondly, if we are going to increase our limit, we might as well do it as efficiently as possible. Besides, you would have to learn those three spells anyway, as the limit’s increase is based on the power of the spell being used.” Cardinal Caitlyn explained.

“Oh, that makes sense. So, if I get a teacher soon enough?”

“You can start with just one spell to hold you up until you master a peak spell. So, ideally, a teacher could help you either today or tomorrow, otherwise, you will have to teach yourself. I’d love to help, but I already have a decent backlog of work, so I don’t have the time. I am sorry.”

“It’s fine. I know that you are busy. So, when do you think a teacher will arrive?”

“I’ll go ask. Please wait here, I shall be back soon.” She says as she leaves the room.

“Haa, hopefully I’ll get a teacher soon. And that they can teach me well.” I sigh in worry.

“Yeah, good teachers are hard to come by, especially when so many people seem to dislike you.” Melly sighs.

“Well, all we can do is wait.” I shrug. “Well, might as well practice.”

During my practice, I explained what I was doing, my thought process, as well as my thoughts about my mana. A bit after I was done, Cardinal Caitlyn returned.

“So, I found you a teacher, and they are free right now. So, we are going to Gate them in.” She explains.

“And the teacher is?” I ask nervously.

“Someone that worked with the previous Saint. He had retired to the main temple but is more than willing to leave to teach you whatever you need. In addition, he’s a renowned teacher, which should prove particularly useful right now. He’s also very loyal to the Gods as well, so it is highly unlikely he will be against you.”

“Oh, that’s nice. I hope we can get along.”

“I believe that you will. So, shall we head to the Gate? I’m curious about the rumors I’ve heard about you. I’ve heard that all of your doubters immediately change their mind once they see you dance.” She says in anticipation. Haa, she’s not even teasing me. It sure feels like it though.

“Aye.” I agreed. “I won’t pass up an opportunity to dance in the Gate’s light.”

“Lovely, let us go then.” She says.

“I’ll go as well. I want to get used to the Gate as soon as possible.” Melly follows.

“Good, it’s so much more fun that way.” I approve.

It doesn’t take long to arrive. And with it, the moment I’ve been waiting for. I ignored everyone’s looks as I started to dance. Luckily, the initial burst of light blocked my view of everyone, though as the light spread out, that effect lessened.

I ignored all that though, only focusing only on the light and its guidance. I fully relax and let my body be moved by the current. Haa, it’s so peaceful. I wish I could stay like this for hours. Sadly, all good things must come to an end.

With a sigh, I bow to the Gate, thanking it for its lovely light.

Afterward, I turned to the Cardinal, who stared at me in shock and amazement. “What’s wrong?” I ask.

“Divine. You were absolutely divine!” She exclaims.

“Why does everyone say that?” I pout. “I’m not that amazing.”

“No, you could feel the divinity. If you had the robes… Well, that was well and truly worth it. Thank you. I feel even closer to the Gods now.” She bowed.

“What?” I don’t understand what she’s talking about. Whatever, she’s gone crazy as well. “So, Melly. How was it?”

“Better. Seeing you dance just makes everything better.”

“Like the Hero’s cooking?” I joke.

“Yeah, actually. If I see you dance like that a bit more, I’m sure I’d be able to move about normally within the light.”

“Okay then.” I was not expecting that. Now I’m even more embarrassed…

“Your teacher has arrived, Saintess.” The Cardinal says, getting my attention.

I turned towards the Gate to see an old man walk through. He was wearing scholar robes, similar to Hansen's but far more elegant. He has no facial hair on his wrinkly face and is wearing a… tall hat. It’s a bit odd, kinda like someone rolled the top of a cylinder like a piece of cloth. He is also walking with a cane, but he doesn’t seem to actually need it. Wait, is that a staff?

“Greetings. Considering the amount of stares you are receiving, I presume you are the Saintess?” He asked me. He sounds even older than he looks.

“Yes, I am Saintess Elizabeth. Thank you for offering to teach me.” I bow.

“A pleasure. My name is Samuel. I’m glad that the time to teach you has come so early.” He greets.

“Come early?” I subconsciously ask.

“Yes. I specifically retired so that I would always be free to teach whatever you might need. Seeing your confusion, I presume you were not told.”

“She wasn’t. She had only just started her journey, so we did not want her to be distracted by wanting to return early just so she could be taught.” The Cardinal explains.

“I wouldn’t do that!” I complain.

“We now know that, but beforehand all that was widely known about you was your studious nature. As such, many were worried that you would prioritize learning over helping the Hero.”

“Haa, I guess I can see where you’re coming from, but that doesn’t mean I’m happy about it.” I pout. Did I really seem that untrustworthy?

Yes, yes I was, huh. I mean, I didn’t even stay to learn from the temple, preferring to study at my church. And, of course, I didn’t even realize that I was the saintess for a week. Yeah, I wouldn’t have trusted myself either. Haa, that’s oddly depressing.

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“I’m sorry, I didn’t think…” Cardinal Caitlyn starts to apologize.

“Don’t worry, even I wouldn’t have trusted myself if I was in your shoes.” I weakly shrug. Man, I’ve really bummed myself out.

“That’s right. Your previous self did appear quite unreliable.” Samuel agrees.

“Thanks.” I sarcastically reply.

“No problem.” I… Oh, he’s smiling. This old man.

“So, I take it you’ve heard about me?” I ask.

“Before we continue this conversation, why don’t we head to my office. We are interrupting everyone's work by standing here.” Cardinal Caitlyn interrupts.

“Ah, you’re right.”

“Apologies. Please lead the way.” Samuel requests.

And so, we headed to Cardinal Caitlyn’s office once again.

“Would you like some tea, Sir Samuel?” Cardinal Caitlyn asks once we sit down.

“I would, thank you.”

What? Why’s she so respectful? Who is he?

After taking a sip of his tea, he asks me. “Shall we continue?”

“Sure.”

“Yes, I have heard about you. Sadly, I’ve mostly heard negative things.”

“Oh, figures.” I sigh.

“Your reaction sounds like an affirmation.”

“I mean, I haven’t really done anything wrong, it’s just that I never wanted the position in the first place, and people noticed.” I finished with a shrug.

“Truly? Why not?”

“Well, I only tried out to become a saint candidate because the priests at my church asked me to. So, even passing was a surprise, much less actually becoming the saintess. After all, my ‘dream job’ was to become a standard priestess. So, rather than actively disliking me, most just see someone who doesn’t respect the position.”

“Correct. That is the primary opinion of the Cardinals. I’ve heard that you are actually quite responsible though?”

“In a sense. My mission is to defeat the demon lord, everything else can wait.” I say with determination.

“Hahaha, that’s right! Caitlyn, your reports are true. She is truly deserving of her title. Even more so than the previous Saint!” He laughs.

“I told you.” Cardinal Caitlyn smiles proudly.

I, I didn’t even say that much, why’s he so pleased?

Noticing my confusion, Cardinal Caitlyn explains. “I’ve been telling Sir Samuel about you for a while now. He should have a decent idea as to your character.”

“Not just from you, but most higher-ups that you’ve met.” He adds.

“I, see.” He’s been spying on me?

“How much do you really know though?” Melly questions.

“Enough to know that her words are the truth. She is truly deserving of her position, just misunderstood. She oddly doesn’t seem to care about changing that perception though.”

“Well, once we defeat the demon lord, she won’t have to worry all that much about how others perceive her,” Melly argues.

“You are correct. Sadly, I’ve been told that such a thought wasn’t her idea. She would have been quite impressive if that was the case.” He sighs. “Instead, we got what may very well be the best person for our immediate problem.”

“That’s right! Eli is the perfect saintess for this mission. I doubt anyone else would be as devoted.” Melly says smugly. I can’t help but smile as I listen to her.

“I’m of a similar opinion. As such, I am glad that I can finally be of assistance.”

“Why’s that?” I ask.

“That’s the reason I retired after all. I promised my friend that I would take care of his successor. Sadly, a demon lord is gaining strength, so I didn’t have the opportunity to teach you properly.”

“Why make such a promise? And why you specifically?”

“He was worried that his successor would make similar mistakes as himself, so he asked me, his closest friend, to prevent that. So, as I was already planning on retiring within the next few years anyway, I figured I should fulfill his final request.” He says, gazing off into nothing.

I feel a bit rude now. “Um, were his mistakes that bad?” This is also concerning. What sort of mistakes did he make when his final request was to make sure I didn’t make the same ones?

“Not particularly.” What? “Well, they did end up causing him multiple problems over the years, but nothing he wasn’t able to resolve without too much issue. He mainly just felt guilty about not being able to help you himself, having died years earlier than we all had expected.”

“I see, I guess that makes sense. I’d probably have similar thoughts.” I accepted. His death was unusual since, usually, the previous saintess is around for a year or so to help their heir get situated. “Oh yeah! Why did he die? He wasn’t particularly old, and was quite a proficient healer, even for a saintess.” I’ve been wondering about that.

“Haa, I knew you’d ask eventually.” Cardinal Caitlyn sighed.

“Should I leave that for some other time?” I ask in worry.

“No, it’s just something concerning. Well, he-”

“Let me.” Samuel interrupted. “He pushed himself too hard.”

“That’s… it? He overworked himself?”

“More or less. It is hard to control a saintess’ enhanced mana trait after all, especially since it tends to become even more extreme as you get stronger.” He says. Uh, what? “So, as a saintess, you have the ability to draw upon your trait, gaining power at the cost of straining your body. And, as your trait becomes more extreme, the amount of power you can draw out increases. As such, many saintesses end up dying younger than expected. I have a feeling you won’t have to worry about that though.”

“You think I won’t have to worry about that? I use my mana trait all the time. I even plan on drastically increasing the amount I use it once the demon lord has been killed.” I’m annoyed, does he think I don’t care about dying early?

I mean, that wouldn’t stop me, but I would still worry!

“You do often use your trait, but you don’t draw out its power like you did when fighting Pallet.”

“Yeah… that’s what I was talking about.”

“No. You did things differently than normal this time. Why don’t you try to see what was different.” Haa, he’s already trying to teach me stuff.

“Um, was it when I passed out and Melly lost control?” That’s the only odd thing I can think of. I still don’t quite understand why she regained some control. If that’s the cause, then, well, so be it. It’s worth it.

“Likely that too, but that’s not what I’m talking about.”

“Um.” I spent the next few minutes thinking, but I still couldn’t think of anything else. Haa, I give up. “I’ve got nothing.”

“Are you sure? I didn’t think you were the type to give up.”

“I’m not.” I deny. “I just don’t try to brute force my way through problems, especially when I could just ask for help.”

“I see, you may be more difficult to teach than I’m used to.” I doubt that, but whatever. “Regardless, you drew out power to cast spells while poisoned.”

“How? I specifically set that situation up.” I say skeptically.

“That’s because, even with your technique, only saintesses can cast while suffering mana poisoning. That’s one of the uses of drawing out your trait.”

“So my effort was useless?” Aww, I was hoping I was onto something.

“Not at all. Your technique likely reduced the amount of power you needed to draw out noticeably. So, while it wasn’t enough on its own, it still has worth.” He comforted.

“Haa, at least it’s something. What about everything else? Was I drawing out power for that entire fight?”

“Unlikely. For example, I believe that being able to flow your mana while poisoned was because of the core you fused with.” I go wide-eyed at that.

“Don’t worry, I was the one that told him.” Cardinal Caitlyn explained.

“Okay.” That’s a relief. “Wait, that’s the reason? What gave you that idea?”

“Because cores increase the effective power of your mana trait. I am fairly certain that your particular trait was what allowed you to flow your mana though.”

“Maybe, though I sadly can’t test if I could somehow do that beforehand. Oh! If the intensity of the mana trait is what lets me draw out power, does that mean those that fuse with demon cores can as well?”

“That is correct.” He praises with a smile. “Though they can never do so to the same extent, being stuck with lower limits. Fusing with something like a dragon core, though, would likely overcome that limitation.” Oh, that’s not good. I might accidentally draw out way too much power at some point.

“Haa. So, what about releasing excess energy to reduce the time poisoned?”

“That is likely a result of your mana trait, not drawing power. I’d have to check to be certain though. Also, I am positive that your infusing of preMilo buffs is a result of your unique mana.” He promises.

“Haa, that’s good. What about when I passed out and Melly took control?”

“I wasn’t exactly in control, Eli.” Melly protests.

“Well, more control than usual.” I partially relent.

“Well, I can’t be completely certain, but you likely drew out power then.” He suggests.

“Why do you say that? How do you draw out power anyway?”

“In order to draw out power, you usually need an intense emotional reaction or desire, especially when you aren't very familiar with the process. So, your strong desire to cast spells and to defeat Pallet were likely worthy catalysts. What drawing out power does varies, but it usually allows you to temporarily overcome limits of some sort, as your mana enacts the action in your place.”

“That sounds fairly similar to just using the unique effects of my trait.”

“Correct. That’s because they come from the same source. The main difference, other than the larger variety of different things you can do via drawing out power, is that drawing out power pushes beyond your limits, being fueled by your vitality.

“Okay, what else can you do by drawing out power?”

“Instantly ‘learn’ or modify spells, mimic other traits, instant growth, etc. There are a wide variety of uses.” He lists off. “Sadly, despite those benefits, the cost is equally steep. Do you know about Saintess Valra?”

“Yeah, she was a saintess for by far the shortest amount of time, but was likely the most talented saintess the church had ever seen.”

“Yes, though the source of that ‘talent’ was her rampant drawing of power from her mana. In the end, she died with her only real accomplishment being to give later saintesses knowledge about drawing out power and its dangers.”

“She must have used it a lot!” I exclaimed.

“Um, how long was she a saintess?” Melly asks.

“Just shy of six years,” I respond, causing Melly to gasp.

“Correct. That’s why I recommend that you only draw out power sparingly. But, again, I doubt that you need to be particularly concerned about that.” He adds.

“Why? I mean, I obviously won’t use it often, but it’s not like I’ll refuse to use it.”

“Simply because of how powerful your mana trait already is.”

“Is, is it really that great?” I ask in doubt.

“Of course! Of all the previous saintesses, you have one of, if not the best trait. You can use it to accomplish truly remarkable feats on its own. For example, just by using your trait, you might be able to revolutionize mana potion usage.”

“Yeah, that’s quite useful, but I doubt it’s enough to ignore drawing out power.”

“On its own, no. Remember though, you fused with a dragon core, even causing it to submit to you. Besides, according to Caitlyn, your core’s fusion is already becoming more powerful than you can handle, why would you attempt to get even more power?” He says. How persuasive. However, that is obviously ignoring the unique things that you can do by drawing out power.

“Well, we will just have to wait and see.” I shrug. He might be right. It’s not like I’d ever heard of that beforehand, so it wasn’t part of my plans.

“Speaking of your core, we should get to training, we don’t want you to be torn apart now.”

“Yes!” I do not want to be torn apart by my own mana! “Oh! Speaking of, how exactly does drawing out power strain your body?”

“Other than it somehow being fueled by your vitality? We don’t really know.” He admits.

“What? How?”

“Because that’s the only part we’ve been able to discover. And even then, it works differently enough from everything else that runs off vitality that we know that there has to be something more to it.” He explained. “Our current best guess is that it somehow affects your soul.”

Okay… I’m going to ignore that for now. Besides, I highly doubt the Gods would give out this ability if it caused permanent harm to your soul.

So, deciding I was done with this conversation, I started practicing my chosen mana vein spell until it was almost time for lunch, while also throwing in some mana density training. Speaking of.

“By the way, could we use this training to increase our mana density?”

“Not likely.” Samuel decides after thinking for a bit. “After all, it is the durability of your veins that primarily determines how dense your mana is .”

“Ah, that makes sense.”

With that bit of curiosity answered, I finished this one last set of practice. “So, since it’s just about time for lunch, now seems like a good time to stop. Speaking of lunch, are you joining us?” I asked.

“Of course!” Melly exclaimed. I wasn’t doubting that.

“That was my plan,” Samuel answered.

“Sadly I have a lunch meeting to discuss the sale of some dragon parts, so I can not join you.” Cardinal Caitlyn sighs.

“Understood. I’ll talk to you later then.” I say as we leave Cardinal Caitlyn’s meeting room.