Adrian held his breath, just like everyone else, pinning all his hopes—and all the pressure—on the Pope.
In their eyes, Elizabeth might be deeply influenced by Murphy, but she was the Pope, after all—the very symbol of their faith. On an issue this fundamental, she ought to… she ought to hold her ground, shouldn't she?
The three young Cardinals said nothing, but they too looked toward Elizabeth, their gazes filled with the same pleading and apprehension.
Under the weight of eight pairs of eyes, Elizabeth slowly lifted her gaze.
Her gaze was clear and calm. It swept across their faces one by one—some agitated, some grief-stricken, some somber, some bewildered. Finally, her eyes met Murphy's for a brief moment.
Then, she turned her gaze back to the Cardinals. Her voice was not loud, but it was clear, steady, and carried the authority befitting a Pope. "Your Eminences, I understand your concerns and your loyalty."
