280

Was what Helena said her true thoughts? Was the Deep Sea Church's goal really just to establish communication with the Homeloss? Did this "spokesperson of God" truly believe in Captain Duncan's humanity and rationality as she had claimed?

Duncan actually dared not take her entirely at her word, despite the Female Pope's seemingly sincere demeanor. He was quite aware that given Homeloss's renowned reputation and its impressive "battle honors," a leader of power like Helena could not possibly deal with him without any reservations—she must have been holding something back.

But having reservations might not be a bad thing; it meant that if she still chose to cooperate, she must have had compelling reasons to do so. Perhaps it was by the will of God, or for the benefit of the Church, regardless of the reason, the olive branch she was extending now was real.