Rijia's Growth: Big Brother's Words Were Gospel!

As they exchanged pleasantries, Rijia's phone rang.

"Excuse me, Bishop Parker." Rijia stepped aside and picked up his phone. A flood of pictures and text filled the screen.

After skimming the contents, Rijia barely managed to suppress a grin. Tentacle, you really do know me!

Once he had reviewed everything, Rijia resumed the task his big brother had given him.

"Bishop Parker, have there been any cult sacrifices in our diocese lately?"

Parker gave nothing away as he asked, "Why? Have you discovered something, Cleric Malik?"

Rijia's expression turned solemn. "Bishop Parker, I've become one of the Goddess's Gifted. As a blade in her hand, I want to help shoulder your burdens."

"The clergy of the White Frost Knights and the Pure Blade can only do so much."

After a pause, Rijia stepped forward and slipped five hundred-dollar bills from his wide clerical sleeve.

"I truly want to make progress, Bishop Parker."

Parker pocketed the money without a trace and placed both hands on Rijia's shoulders.

"Cleric Malik, I can feel your devotion and your zeal."

After a pause, Parker smiled. "There have indeed been some lawbreakers committing evil deeds lately."

"The Goddess's blades perform their duties faithfully, but there are only so many of them."

"So, Cleric Malik, what do you want?"

Rijia's heart stirred. He had only meant to carry out his big brother's task and ask about the recent sacrifices.

He had not expected Parker to leave the question so open.

Rijia's mind raced through the lessons in dealing with people he had learned while following his big brother, and all the earnest advice his big brother had given him.

Listen for what people mean. Listen more, and think more.

Before doing anything, know what you hope to gain and what you plan to do next.

*The