Part 363: Ricken A

Ricken, you've been busy lately, haven't you?

Yep! I've been working my fingers to the bone.

You really have grown into a reliable young man! Color me impressed.

Heh. That's the first time you've ever called me a man.

Do you mind?

Only if it's just idle compliments. ...Which that probably was.

A man grown, and a clever one to boot! Clearly, I must work on my flattery.

I knew it!

Don't be upset, Ricken. You've come a long way in a short time. You're far ahead of most people twice your age.

I just wish people would treat me like the man I am, you know? I mean, I know I'm younger than most folks here, and smaller, but still...

Respect is earned in time, Ricken. Try to force it, and you'll end up passed out from exhaustion on a baggage wagon.

Yeah, I know...

Still, if you're determined to improve yourself, that's half the battle.

It is? Great!

Keep working at it, and someday you'll be more powerful than me!

Hey! I told you to stop with the idle flattery!