In front of the Goddess of Light statue at the Shrine of Light…
"I've disappointed you, sir."
The Holy Maiden of Light hung her head with a look of shame on her face. Behind her also stood four half-deities and three Red-Cloaked Archbishops, who all also looked worse for the wear.
A slightly frowning Pope Hayes gazed at them and said, "Has that Heaven's Vault Continent deity killed your divine incarnation, too?"
"Yes, he has, sir."
Altacia felt unbearably ashamed of herself. She had made confident promises to the pope at the point of deployment, yet she had returned after a crushing defeat. She had practically embarrassed herself thoroughly.
"Tell me about the battles," said Pope Hayes slowly.
"This is what happened, sir."
