The sunset enshrouded the Pope and Maria, as Maria raised her head to meet an indifferent gaze.
"And I bid you pardon," the former Pope bowed. "Maria Sableheart."
He raised his head, meeting a smile that didn't reach her eyes.
Maria tilted her head, chuckling. "One would think you a brute, even after joining the cult."
Joseph's ankle propped on the table, chortling. "One would consider you a romantic, seeing how you interact with your friends."
"Oh, but forgive my manners." Maria's palm pressed her chest, and her voice was sincere. "Thank you for respecting our privacy."
"Hehe... no need..."
His mustache curled into a grin. "To see two witches who smashed the Cult apart so easily with the Saintess herself?"
Then, his tone turned menacing, laced with threat as his eyes curved.
"It is my honour, my daughter."
The Former Pope knew Maria well, and Maria knew her Father well.