Another gem from fanfic

This exchange is between Lamont Cranston (aka the Shadow) and the Tulku, during Lamont's tutelage in the Tulku's temple. They're speaking mind-to-mind (hence the bold rather than quote marks). The story is Anything is Possible...Nothing is Impossible by Kimberly Murphy-Smith (http://bimpco.tripod.com/anything.html).

The Tulku looked stern. Do you know why you were sent to the market this morning?

Lamont nodded. I had become arrogant about my newfound power.

Partially.

Lamont thought for a moment. I was not dealing properly with my past.

Partially.

He tried to find the right words for The Tulku. The work needed to be done.

Partially.

Lamont looked puzzled. I don't know any other reason.

Because you did not ask to be relieved of the duty.

Lamont looked confused. I don't understand.

If you had merely asked to be relieved of the duty, I would have done so. But you did not ask. You instead attempted to rationalize why you should not be sent. That is arrogance in a passive disguise, and I will not tolerate an initiate behaving in that fashion, especially not one who is supposed to be an example to others.

Wow.

You attempted to rationalize why you should not be sent. That is arrogance in a passive disguise...

Wow again. That one socked me right between the eyes. I suspect that I should think about that one for a while, if only because I immediately saw how that might easily apply to me (the guilty flee where no man pursueth...). I suspect, too, that my lovely and talented wife, snippy might have a few useful comments to make in this regard.