Ron Cole was briefly taken aback, but he quickly registered what Arabella Donovan had just said and was amused.
"Yes, yes, you're right. To think that at my age, I haven't thought things through as clearly as a child. I've wasted my years."
"No, no, please don't say that. It's just that those involved can't see things as clearly as an outsider."
"Serena is right. Nothing has even happened yet, and you're already bolstering their morale while undermining our own. Is that what I taught you?"
"You're right, Elder Donovan," Ron Cole agreed good-naturedly. He then turned to Arabella Donovan. "Serena, since you call me Mr. Cole, then I'll take the liberty of asking you for a favor."
"Mr. Cole, you're being too formal. Please, just tell me what's on your mind."
"This matter is of great importance. It will definitely have to be reported up the chain of command."
"I know. I'm prepared for that, so you don't have to worry."
