144 144: The Pope, The Dark One, and the Custodian (last)

Custodian's gaze, which was deep and immeasurable like a bottomless pit, fixed on the Pope before its voice rang solely in the latter's ears.

"The most convincing act is one where the actors aren't aware they are in a play. Only a play like this can deceive "their" watchful eyes. He must deceive to survive. Is this reason sufficient for you?"

The Pope was momentarily ensnared in a web of contemplation as he weighed the Custodian's words. 

He knew who it was talking about. They were extraterrestrial threats that couldn't be easily fooled. 

They also couldn't be easily defeated. Among wizards, only the lords could threaten their existence. 

If they wanted someone dead, it was ridiculously hard to save that person.

Since they were in the picture, the Pope knew he had no choice but to eat his own words and change his decision.