"Writer? This is what I wrote."
Hearing Shade's request, Priest Augustus pointed at himself and asked doubtfully:
"Is there a problem with the speech?"
"No, no problem. It's just... Priest, are you very good at writing this sort of thing?"
Shade asked again. Priest Augustus nodded with some pride:
"I entered the church in my twenties. For most of my life, I've handled similar clerical work. You could say I've spent a lifetime writing speeches and public documents."
Shade looked at the old man before him with great admiration. Compared to Dorothy, who often polished reports, Priest Augustus was a true talent in every sense.
With the speech over, Shade's work at the church was basically complete. Bishop Owen took time out of his busy schedule to meet with him. Not only did he give him twenty pounds as a speaking fee, but he also encouraged him to visit the church often. The bishop seemed to think the Outlander had the potential to become a seasoned and devout believer.
Hamilton of Leijed then accepted an interview from the Tobesk Morning News in the bishop's office alongside Bishop Owen. The magnesium flash of the old-fashioned camera was dazzling, and the questions had clearly been prepared in advance. Shade stood there with a smile, while Bishop Owen did most of the talking. All Shade needed to do was praise the church's arrangements for the day.
He had earned this money far too easily.
After the interview, Priest Augustus also brought Shade the receipt for his church donation, which he intended to reimburse in August.
It was already evening. After busying himself all afternoon, Shade finally had time to take the cat around the festival square.
Throughout the afternoon, the well-fed Mia had obediently stayed by Shade's side. When Shade attended the events,