The Freed S*aves Became Obsessed

Cardinal Benedictus of the Holy Council immediately objected.

"A saint? Cardinal Marcenus, what kind of nonsense is this?"

"It’s exactly as I said. With His Holiness gone, we need a pillar to restore balance. The Saint will bring order back to our chaotic Holy Kingdom."

With vampires running rampant and Antonius having disappeared, this was the perfect time to introduce Elise as the Saint. Naturally, resistance was expected.

"A saint? Do you really think it makes sense to set up a woman of unknown origin as the face of the Holy Kingdom, Cardinal Marcenus?"

"I understand your doubts. I had them myself at first. But once you witness her abilities, your opinions will change."

"Hah! To call some lowborn girl a saint—Cardinal Marcenus, has your thirst for power made you lose all reason? Ha!"

Despite the jeering, Marcenus remained unfazed and gestured to the doors. More figures entered.

"Grrrhhh…."

"A v-vampire?!"

It was unmistakably a vampire. It had been thoroughly restrained, unable to move a single finger. Its mouth was gagged to prevent it from closing, and its bloodlust had reached its limit, leaving its eyes bloodshot and frenzied.

"Bringing a turncoat into this sacred hall?! What is the meaning of this, Cardinal Marcenus?! Guards, kill that creature at once!"

Shiiing.

The Holy Knights reached for their swords, but a single glance from Marcenus made them freeze.

"What are you waiting for? Cut it down!"

"You are far too hasty. Just watch."

"What?"

At Marcenus’ signal, Elise stepped forward.

The vampire, crazed and on the verge of lunging, dripped thick saliva as it bared its grotesque fangs at her.

"Grrraahh!"

Elise gazed at it with pity.

"How much have you suffered? Your family turned their backs on you, and even God’s voice is now distant. I can see it clearly. Your fear, your trembling, your desperate fight against your own impulses."

"Ghhrr…."

"But you don’t need to worry anymore. I am here. I will save you."

Elise placed a gentle hand on the man’s pale cheek.

Her eyes shimmered.

The vampire’s convulsions stilled.

The madness in its eyes faded, its pupils regaining clarity. Instead of a guttural growl, words spilled from its lips.