Neophyte

Concerns

Rain finally fell from the dark gray skies, and the morning mass was finished. Bishop Victoriano and the other Bishops led the Padres out of the church and walked toward the dining room as the rain fell on them. Bishop Victoriano felt at ease as the rain fell on him; it lessened his stress from everyday life in the Mission. Also, when it rained, it gave the Tongva a chance to rest since the other Bishops didn't want them to get ill.

Standing behind the Bishop, Guillermo cleared his throat. "Bishop, if it pleases you, I would like to assist with the preparations."

"Yes, go and assist. Thank you for your hard work."

Guillermo bowed and left the group, heading toward one of the many classrooms where adults and children practiced their instruments or sang. Everyone knew Padre Fermin would arrive tomorrow, and Bishop Victoriano knew everyone was anxious.  He too, felt anxious but the Bishop didn't want to express it.

He and everyone else arrived where a child was finishing lighting the candles. Everyone got in their places until the Bishops stood before the main table, said a small prayer, sat on their seats, and motioned to the Padres to do the same. When everyone sat, Bishop Juan stood again, receiving everyone's attention. "We have an important announcement. I received a message that Padre Fermin is safe and well; he will arrive tomorrow morning." The Padres smiled as they whispered among one another but became silent as Bishop Juan raised his hand. "Which is why all of you must keep the Gabrilienos in check and ensure they perfect everything for Padre Fermin's arrival. Withhold punishments if need be until Padre Fermin leaves the Mission. Am I understood?"

"Yes, Bishop," the Padres said in unison. 

Bishop Victoriano glared at Juan but said nothing. Suddenly, he noticed Mariana, Valentina, and another woman entering with plates and cups of food. Mariana walked toward the main table and bowed as she served them their plates and cups of food. Bishop Victoriano and Mariana looked at one another as she served him his plate and cup. "Mariana, good morning."

"Good morning, Bishop. I imagine you and everyone are excited for Padre Fermin's arrival."

"Yes, his arrival is an honor for all of us. Thank you for your continuous hard work." The Bishop noticed a hint of hesitation in Mariana's eyes and knew something was wrong. He was urged to ask, but the others would hear and become suspicious if he did. Bishop Victoriano motioned his eyes to the left, indicating his office; it was a signal they both agreed upon.

Mariana smiled and nodded while serving the other Bishops their plates of food and drinks. Suddenly, footsteps echoed in the room, and the Padres noticed Esteban standing outside the doorway, wet from the rain. "By Lord in heaven, please enter, Lieutenant. We wouldn't want you to get ill before tomorrow," said Bishop Samuel.

"Thank you, Bishop. I did not wish to disrupt your meal, but something that cannot wait must be discussed." Esteban was motioned to go inside and to go before the main table. While walking toward the Bishop, he glanced at Padre Federico, who was focused on his food. A shiver of disgust went down his spine. Esteban eventually arrived before the main table and gave a short bow. "Bishops, Padre Fermin is currently staying at an Inn that is a couple of hours away. My commanders gave me word that they and some of our men are with Padre Fermin and that he is safe and in good health."

"Ah, praise be to God. Our prayers have been answered. We all feared the worst but we are glad that he will be arriving tomorrow," said Bishop Samuel.

"Yes, I will have my men guard the Mission as long as Padre Fermin stays, and that is not all. There are people from nearby villages and towns that wish to attend and I have received word that Pascual will also be in attendance."