Chapter 319.2
Joseph had always radiated brightness and warmth. He had been elated when he entered the sanctuary. Pides couldn’t fathom why he had undergone such a profound transformation, carrying the weight of the world as if burdened by it.
“Pides, perhaps… If, by any chance, I am unable to return to the Holy City’s Palace… In that case, inside the lower stone… No, never mind,” Joseph trailed off, his voice filled with uncertainty.
He bowed his head slightly, a gesture filled with reverence.
“May Mahar’s blessings be everlasting.”
Pides was unable to catch up to Joseph as he swiftly exited the prayer room. Hastily, Pides trailed behind, but Joseph was already striding ahead, too far for Pides to call out to him. The unease he felt when he observed Joseph’s cautious demeanor earlier lingered in his mind.
“Will Joseph be unable to return to the Holy City’s Palace? Could he be detained in the Kingdom of Delano?” Pides pondered, feeling a sense of unease settling within him.
Throughout the day, Joseph’s image remained etched in Pides’ thoughts, refusing to fade away. As dusk approached and Pides finished his work, he made his way back to his lodging. Along the corridor, he sensed the presence of another knight approaching from the opposite direction. Ever since he swallowed the relic not long ago, Pides had developed a heightened awareness of his fellow knights’ presence.
The two knights met midway in the corridor, exchanging a brief nod before continuing on their separate paths. Pides took a few steps forward before pausing and glancing back.
“Why would an Inquisitor…?” he murmured to himself.