If the comment about being a little lost sheep had been unexpected, Mister Tully's forwardness regarding the state of his faith was even more so. It was not... unheard of, of course, but it surprised him how willing he was to lead with it.

Malachi cleared his throat almost awkwardly, uncertain how he was meant to take the man's words. They felt half-praising and half-insulting.

"Of course. There's no need to prove yourself to me, Mister Tully, I believe you. Ah, I'm curious, however... why do you say that God has abandoned you?"

There was no hint of judgement in the priest's low voice, but he could not mask his concern.