Negotiate

"And what would be my immediate reward for accepting this...position?" I asked, hoping I didn't sound too eager.

The Monsignor's eyes lit up at the question, and he leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "Ah, yes, I understand your desire for...relief." His gaze drifted back to Sister Angela, whose head was still bobbing steadfastly beneath his desk. "You will receive the blessed companionship of a true believer tonight. After that your rates will be set by the job."

My mind raced. I hadn't wanted to be anyone's enforcer, but the thought of Sister Angela's soft, obedient body under mine was tempting. I had to make sure that this wasn't a one-time deal. "And what of a permanent...companion?" I asked, trying not to betray my desperation.

The Monsignor's eyes narrowed, and he leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "Ah, so you wish to build your own flock," he said, his voice hard. "It is important that the church never schism." This was accompanied by a hard look. "But... in some circumstances..." his voice trailed off, perhaps considering the long term future of his movement. "It is important that faith be rewarded."

He seemed to reach an internal consensus, and looked hard at me once more. "If you prove your loyalty and obedience to the word of the lord, you shall be granted a disciple of your own when the opportunity arises."

I tried not to look too happy. "But," he added "If you attempt to undermine the sacred work here, the sufferings of the saints will be as nothing compared to your fate."