Introduce yourself

"Did she now?" The old man quipped with laughter, trying to reassure the room. "I suppose Gemma must trust you an awful lot. If it helps you any, I don't call myself the Beacon or anything of the sort. That's something my family bestowed upon me. I carry no messages from any God, nor do I see apparitions or anything of the like. If you decide to stick with us, you'll soon learn what the Prophet's message actually is, Sweetpea." Father David spoke softly but surely. In a few sentences, he was seemingly able to diffuse the room and return the atmosphere to neutral.

"Now.. Sarah, is it? Would you mind introducing yourself to us all?"

Sarah gulped. She wasn't much of a public speaker. But, with some encouragement from Gemma, she faced the room and breathed deeply.

"Well.. hi everyone. My name is Sarah. I've worked at a logistics company for a few years now. That's actually how I heard of you - my coworker Lisa, she suggested this should be something I check out." Sarah said, trying to watch her words.

"Lisa! Ah, what a sweetheart. She's been with us for awhile. You must have a good taste in friends if you're friends with Lisa, Sweetpea." The old man smiled.

"Y-yeah.. we really connected over the pandemic. I have a boyfriend, Rowan, who I live with and love. We've been together for a few years and I'm super lucky to have him." As she said this, she noticed the old man's lip quiver for a second, before returning to its default state of smiling.

"Well isn't that adorable! Where is old Rowan right now? He didn't feel like tagging along?" Father David asked, seemingly searching for more information.

"No-no, he offered, but I wanted to come myself. I'm the one that's looking for something - he's perfectly happy. But he totally supports me and I love him so much for that." Sarah said passionately.

"Aw, isn't that wonderful folks? There's nothing more sweet than supporting your loved ones in trying to find what they're looking for." Father David said to the room of nodding heads. "Well, Sweetpea. What is it that you're looking for?"