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"M-Maria? Is it really you?"
The woman's serious expression softened instantly into a gentle, relaxed smile.
"Catarina! You're finally here! I swear, I was about to go look for you myself! Sorry about this—you caught us right in the middle of a sparring tournament!" Maria giggled. "How have you been? Ah, wait, where's your wolf and the girl with you? Silva was her name, right?"
"Auntie?" Silva stepped forward curiously. "Are you really Auntie Maria?"
"Yep! In the flesh!" Maria nodded with a bright smile. "Surprised about my new look? Aren't I a cutie now~?"
"Ugh, what the hell happened?! You finally come back but everything's changed?!" Catarina demanded.
"Hahaha, okay, calm down. Let's talk. Come on, let's go to my pagoda. The castle is reserved for other family members, friends, and guests," Maria said, pointing into the distance.
