There would surely be interest in the collaboration. As for the terms, they would be negotiated gradually.

Maria smiled when he agreed and changed the topic.Jerez’s rice should be around the same time," she said, standing up and glancing back at the castle behind her. "I’ll take some time in the next couple of days to check on the villa, but keep an eye on the people here—make sure they don’t follow me."

Simon nodded. "Don’t worry, I won’t let them wander around."

She wasn’t concerned about the Pope or the two bishops, but rather their subordinates. The knights and mercenaries, all skilled fighters, could cause trouble even with someone...