Ferdinand was conflicted since he also knew past empresses who did not go to Estrella after speaking with the Pope.
Arabella held Ferdinand's hand and gave it a squeeze. She smiled reassuringly and said, telepathically, {Don't worry. I simply want to ask him a few questions. And I'd like to know what he wants to talk about.}
"Alright. I'll wait outside," Ferdinand reluctantly agreed. Then to the Pope, he said, "Don't try anything funny."
"Rest assured, I won't," the Pope smiled. He was already used to Ferdinand and the other dragons' attitude.
Everyone else then got out, leaving only Arabella and Pope Elsevier in the meeting room.
"You seem to be faring well in Valeria," Pope Elsevier said.
"Yes, more than I thought I'd be," Arabella smiled.
[She doesn't seem to be lying.] Pope Elsevier observed her silently.
"You have dark circles under your eyes. Have you not been sleeping well?" Pope Elsevier inquired.
'How did he notice?! Did my makeup already melt?!'
