How does the author of Chapter 36 frame the act of storytelling and prepare the reader for the next narrative?

The author of Chapter 36 frames storytelling not as simple entertainment, but as a sacred act of devotion and a means to spiritual welfare. The chapter begins by referencing a previous story and promising another 'succulent story' to quench the listener's spiritual thirst. The text explicitly states that listening to Sai's stories 'removes the fatigue and misery of worldly existence.' As explained in Chapter 36, the author emphasizes that Sai himself orchestrates the narration, making the speaker and listener a 'mere pretext' to fulfill the desires of devotees. This elevates the narrative act before the author transitions by saying, 'Let it be; now listen respectfully to the most holy life story of Sai,' and introduces the story of the 'Two Gentlemen from Goa.'