Chapter Text
On multiple floating lands high above the clouds, was the realm of the goddesses. A beautiful place where the air was crisp and the gardens lush. It was a place no mortal has ever dared to tread. And while the feasting was plentiful, it lacked… variety. Only dried fruits, honey and wine was provided. While it was enough for the goddesses that resided in the heavenly realm, one particular goddess would soon realize there are otherworldly dishes more divine than their own.
The Goddess of Wind, Margaret, (or Maggie as she preferred to be called) went over to the well one day to check in with her ground servant. The fenrir whom she had blessed since he was a small pup. Out of all of her worshippers, (which wasn’t a lot) her fenrir was the most devout. However, she was growing concerned when he suddenly stopped making his prayer offerings to her over the past several weeks. She wasn’t upset, but she was curious as to what could make him so distracted.
Watching over the well, she was surprised to see her ground servant in the company of a human! “Now this is interesting!”
Looking into the human’s background, Maggie understood he was summoned to this world by accident. On top of it all, he had formed a familiar contract with her fenrir. “Now, why would you form a familiar contract with a human of all people? You aren’t exactly the type to do these kinds of things on a whim.”
Maggie was just as surprised to see the fenrir in his humanoid form. He had told her many times how he had no need for it and that it was a waste of his abilities. Granted, when she created the glamor for him she forgot to remove the ears and tail. But, he looked so adorable, she didn’t have the heart to remove them. But, here he was, eating and laughing in his humanoid form. He looked more comfortable in it now than when he used it the first time.
“Could it be because of the human?” She pondered this as she spread some honey on a piece of fruit. “Hmm… I should ask him about it soon.”
While hiking through the land was always invigorating, riding atop Aziraphale’s back was more fun. It was getting close to sunset and Anthony wanted to set up camp and make dinner soon. So, Aziraphale offered to take them to the perfect camping spot. In about 15 minutes, Aziraphale slid to a screeching halt when they reached their destination.
“Here we are!” Aziraphale announced.
“Woo!” Anthony whistled while they fixed their hair. “I don’t think I’ll ever get over the fact you’re faster than you look. This isn’t the sea, is it?”
“No, but after our discussion of seafood, I’ve developed a craving for it.” Aziraphale explained. “So, I brought us to a lake. There are quite an abundance of fish in these waters!”
The lake had a beautiful view of the mountains and valleys. On top of the splendid scenery, the prospect of fish made this an ideal camping spot!
“Okay! I’m down for some fish if you are.” Anthony agreed. “To be honest, I’ve been wanting to eat something other than meat for once. Let me just buy a fishing rod and—”
“Oh, there is no need for that. Allow me.” Aziraphale tilted his head back and sucked in a large amount of air.
“AWWOOOOOO!!!”
Multiple bolts of lightning crashed into the lake. One by one, all of the fish in that section of the water floated to the surface. Aziraphale nodded, pleased with his fishing. “A mighty fine haul, if I do say so! Feel free to take all you like.”
Anthony blinked in shock. While they had to admit, this was a pretty efficient way to fish, they were worried about what it could do to the ecosystem. “Um… they’re not all dead, are they?”
“I just shocked them into a state of unconsciousness.” Aziraphale explained. “The one’s we leave alone will wake up on their own time.”
Even though Anthony was glad Aziraphale fished humanely, he couldn’t help but feel a little sorry for them. “Poor fishies.”
Rolling up their pant legs, Anthony grabbed a bunch of violet trout into their basket. “If these are anything like my world’s trout, I should salt and grill ‘em.”
Finding a very large fish, Anthony used his appraisal skill on it. “King trout…! You’ll definitely be for Aziraphale!”
“Oh! Be sure to get those as well!” Aziraphale pointed to the magenta and purple fish. “They tingle quite pleasantly on the tongue.”
Finding their neon color sketchy, Anthony used appraisal on it just in case. Sure enough, it was a poisonous lake fish. “Yeah, no.” He tossed it far into the water.
Aziraphale was appalled. “Such a waste!”
Anthony gave him a look. “Aziraphale, you do know the tingling is the effect of its poison, yeh?”
“Yes, but it doesn’t harm me in any way.” The fenrir said, sulking.
“Well, it can hurt me.” Anthony reasoned. “I don’t have an immunity to poisons like you do. So, I can’t have it cross contaminating the other ingredients. Besides, you’ll like what I end up cooking anyway.”
Aziraphale didn’t think about the possibility that a single touch from a toxic ingredient could effect all the other ingredients. “I see. In that case we will eat whatever you think is best.”
Once Anthony grabbed a large enough haul for dinner, it was time to start prepping. “First, we’re going to need a fire going before I can cook these. Care to help me out, Aziraphale?”
In a puff of smoke, Aziraphale changed into his humanoid form. After buying the new clothes for him, Anthony had to admit, Aziraphale filled out those clothes very well. Rolling up his sleeves, he was ready to get to work. “Certainly!”
When they gathered enough wood and kindling, Anthony used their fire abilities to start it. With the fire going, Anthony bought some flour, butter, mushrooms and tartar sauce from their Online Retailer. Even though Aziraphale was distracted by the meat dishes, he kept his desire for them to himself. It was his idea they had seafood that night, after all. With everything gathered, Anthony was ready to start cooking the violet trout.
“It’s moments like these I’m glad I watched the Wandering Chef series on YouTube.” Anthony said while washing the fish. “Those recipes are excellent for outdoor cooking!”
First, Anthony removed the fish’s innards and cleaned the insides thoroughly with water. Once the fish are properly skewered, he rubbed a generous helping of salt and placed them over the fire to grill slowly. Aziraphale could already smell how delicious they were even before they were done cooking. “Such a divine scent…!”
“Wanna see how I prepare the King Trout?” Anthony asked. Hoping to distract Aziraphale from sneaking a pre-dinner snack.
Aziraphale’s tail wagged. “Of course!”
Anthony hauled the large fish onto the cutting board. First, they needed to scrape off the scales and cut off the head. After the head has been removed, the fish needed to be gutted. With the innards removed, Anthony filleted the body while using the spine for guidance. Despite it being their first try, Anthony did a decent job on such a large fish!
After Anthony sliced the rest of the fish, they decided to grill the first batch in tin foil. After spreading a thin layer of butter on the foil, they added onions, the fish sprinkled in salt and pepper, mushrooms, a little more butter and some Japanese saké for flavor. Anthony settled the wrapped fish along the fire with the the grilling violet trout. Aziraphale’s stomach was getting a bit noisy. Although, Anthony could hardly blame him. The scent of the fish was enough to wet anyone’s appetite!
For the second batch, Anthony prepared the rest of the King Trout as Fish Meunière. After sprinkling salt and pepper on the desired cuts of fish, they let the slices sit in a pan for a minute. Once the fish were pat down and dried, Anthony added a thin coating of baking flour. Adding butter to the pan, Anthony grilled them over his portable stove.
“Anthony, dear! I believe these have been cooked sufficiently now!” Aziraphale said after looking at the grilled violet trout.
Checking his work, Anthony nodded in agreement. “Yep! I think they’re ready, too!”
And with that, all three dishes of cooked trout were ready to be eaten! Aziraphale decided to start with the foil wrapped fish first. Meanwhile, Anthony went for the salt-grilled trout. After taking the first bite of fish, Anthony and Aziraphale couldn’t help but moan in delight!
“Yummy!”
When Aziraphale ate the Fish Meunière next, he greatly approved how it was cooked. “Light, crispy and flavorful all at once! Another triumph, Anthony!”
Before Anthony started cooking, they bought a small pack of beer. It was perfect with the grilled trout! “Mmm! Oh yeah, I definitely nailed it! It doesn’t taste fishy at all and the tartar sauce goes great with the two types of trout!”
“Oh, is that what this white substance is called?” Aziraphale asked. “In that case, may I have more of those along with the wrapped ones?”
“You bet!” Anthony got up to prepare the seconds. “Tartar sauce is great with seafood. In the meantime, you can have some of my violet trout while I cook more of the king trout.” Anthony handed Aziraphale the skewered fish.
“As delicious as these fish are, I could eat an entire lake’s worth in my true form!”
Anthony chuckled. “Yeh, I bet you would!”
After several more helpings of trout, Anthony and Aziraphale relaxed by the fire. They were completely stuffed to the brim and happy as clams!
“Ahh…! I’m so full up!” Anthony sighed contently as he poured himself and Aziraphale some wine. “I haven’t cooked outdoors like this since my camping days with my Grandad.”
“Did you and your grandfather eat fish like this often when you were camping?” Aziraphale asked.
“Sort of. He mostly brought steaks and different cuts of meat on our trips. When we camped near lakes and rivers, we’d try to fish for our supper.” Anthony searched his bag. Before they sold their wallet, Anthony made sure they kept the photograph of them and their grandfather. “Here, this a picture of me and Grandad when I was seven.”
Taking a better look at the photograph, Aziraphale grinned seeing Anthony so adorable when he was a child. Their flaming red hair was shoulder length and they had a big smile on their face; their two front teeth missing. To Aziraphale, he was riding atop a metal dragon. Behind them, keeping Anthony steady was an older gentleman. He also had red hair but was greying out along the sides. He wore an old leather jacket and riding gloves.
“You look like your grandfather, Anthony.” Aziraphale complimented.
“Yeah, after I completed my first year of HRT, my relatives said I started to look more like him.” Said Anthony. “Grandad was a second father to me for most of my life. Took me camping every other weekend. He told me once he always had itchy feet and didn’t like to stay in one place for too long. Drove my grandmother bonkers because of that quirk of his!”
“Is your grandfather still alive back in your world?” Aziraphale asked them.
Anthony’s smile faltered a bit. “No…. He passed away about two years ago.”
Aziraphale’s ears drooped. “My sympathies, Anthony.”
“Don’t worry about it.” They reassured him. “I miss the old man, but I’m glad I’m here. He’d lose his mind if he could see me camping with a legendary fenrir!”
“To be honest, I had no idea your world also had dragons!” Aziraphale handed the photo back to them.
“It’s called a motorcycle.” Anthony corrected him. “It’s a type of vehicle some humans in my world like to ride. I wanted to ride one myself, but I failed the exam too many times.”
“Well, who needs one of those when you have me instead?” Said Aziraphale. “As you already know, I am much faster!”
“Could you get us far with how full your belly is right now?” Anthony smirked.
Aziraphale huffed. “Hmph! This is why I prefer to eat in my true form. I digest faster and I’d get us to the Kingdom of Leonhardt in no time if my stomach wasn’t so round like this!”
“But… do you like eating with me in your current form?” Anthony asked in earnest. If he was being honest with himself, he preferred eating with Aziraphale when he’s like this. It made them more equal, he thought.
Aziraphale blushed. “Fullness aside… I suppose I do enjoy dining with you as a human. I feel it makes us closer than I am in my usual form.”
Anthony smiled, relieved he felt the same way. “Great! So do I.” With a loud grunt, Anthony got up from his chair. “Welp, I better get started on cleaning before we turn in for the night.”
However, When they were about to head to their cooking station, Anthony’s foot accidentally kicked something. It was oddly gelatinous and kind of chilly to the touch. Looking down, Anthony recoiled a bit.
But taking a better glance at it, it stared up with him with two black, button-like eyes. It was small, round and transparent blue. “A… slime?”
Walking up next to his master, Aziraphale nodded in agreement. “So it would seem. But, it’s just an infant, though.”
“I thought you put up a barrier?” Anthony asked.
“It must have been here long before we arrived.” He guessed.
“Well, that kind of defeats the purpose, but since it can’t hurt us I guess it’s fine.” Anthony crouched down to take a better look at the slime. He poked the little guy and it jiggled from his touch. “Heh! You’re like a little mould of jelly, aren’t you?”
The creature hummed as it reached its tendril to Anthony’s finger. “Oh my Someone, you’re adorable. Let’s see what your stats are like.”
As to be expected, it was pretty weak since it was only a 3-days-old baby slime. Anthony shuttered at the thought of high ranking monsters hurting it. “You really are just a wee one, huh?”
The slime hummed some more. Anthony suspected it was trying to tell them something. “You hungry, little fella? I’m sorry pal, but Aziraphale and I already ate everything.”
The baby slime turned toward the cooking station. It hopped toward an empty bottle of vegetable oil. When it picked up the bottle, it fully absorbed it! “Slimes can eat rubbish?”
Aziraphale nodded. “A slime can eat anything. It can even eat rocks, twigs and other organic materials.”
“No kidding!” Anthony was impressed with the amount of garbage it can consume. It certainly saved them the hassle of cleaning up after dinner.
However, Anthony began to panic as soon as the slime picked up their frying pan. “Ah, ah, ah! You don’t get to eat this! Or, the portable stove!” It hopped to the discarded plates instead. “Don’t eat the dishes!”
At first, Anthony was worried the little guy would eat everything in sight. However, their worries quickly dissipated. It was only a baby, but it took to directions well. When Anthony gave the slime all of the rubbish they’ve been storing in their item box, they immediately knew what and what not to eat. Soon enough, their camp site was all clean!
“You’re really something!” Anthony pat the little slime. “You took care of all the rubbish for me. Great job!” The slime hopped up and down, clearly happy at receiving praise. “You understand what I’m saying?”
To prove that it did, the slime hopped right into Anthony’s arms and nuzzled against their chest. “You really are just a friendly little one! You’re gonna make me spoil you at this rate!”
The slime vibrated in their arms. They were very happy Anthony liked them so much!
“It would seem you have gained another familiar, Anthony! Congratulations!” Aziraphale said as he crouched down to pet the little slime.
Anthony was confused. “But, I didn’t form a contract with it like I did with you.”
“I could sense the slime’s desire to be your familiar.” Aziraphale explained. “You accepted their feelings and that is more than enough to make a contract. Take a look at your status.”
Aziraphale was right. Right next to the fenrir, the baby slime was added as Anthony’s familiar. “Ah, so they are.”
“What will you name them?”
Anthony thought about it for a moment. They thought about naming the slime, Bluey, but that felt too unoriginal. Then, out of nowhere, it came to him. “Sui…? What do you think, pal? Do you like the name, Sui?”
The little slime vibrated happily. Anthony chuckled. “I’ll take it as a yes, then!”
And with that, Sui became another beloved addition to the family!
Anthony took a deep breath as they focused on their target. They held out their arm and glared at the tree. “Stone Bullet!”
Just like that, a small piece of rock shot out from their palm! Unfortunately, while their aim was good, the projection was still weak. It didn’t even hit the tree’s roots.
Aziraphale, who had observed, said. “Well, that was… not too bad…!”
Anthony groaned in annoyance. “I know when you’re patronizing me, Aziraphale! I know I suck! It’s literally taken me this long to use a magic other than fire!”
Not long after Sui joined their little group, Anthony discovered they had an affinity for earth magic. For the past few days, Anthony trained to strengthen it. However, they were really struggling with this one. Actually, he was struggling with honing his earth magic more than he did with his fire magic. It was most likely due to him not being used it. But, they were really starting to get frustrated.
“Hmm… remember how your fire magic improved after you’ve had some battle experience?” Aziraphale asked. “Perhaps, a similar exercise will help improve your earth magic.”
Anthony remembered how those goblins nearly turned them into a human-sized shish kebab. They shuttered and said, “Yeh, and you left me alone to deal with the horde myself, while you fucked off to battle the Goblin King!”
Aziraphale sighed. “Yes, and I apologized for that. However, I made sure you had my protective barrier before you were ready to fight! And another thing! I stayed close to make sure you were alright! You were never in any true danger!”
Anthony knew Aziraphale was right. Even so, they were still salty about their first battle experience. “It was still scary though.”
Aziraphale huffed as he got up. “It was merely a suggestion. If you want to keep aimlessly throwing pebbles at trees, then be my guest.” He went over to the pond for a drink, turning away from his master.
“Rude.”
But, Anthony knew Aziraphale was right. That battle with the goblin horde did a lot to improve his fire magic. Maybe, as long as Aziraphale was near him, some battle training could improve his earth magic, too?
Needing a break, they sat down next to Sui and sipped from their water bottle. However, wanting a snack for themself, Sui tried to grab it. “Hold it, pal. I’m not done with my water yet. I’ll give it to you in a bit, okay?”
Sui hummed as they sat in Anthony’s lap. However, taking a better look at his new familiar, Anthony was surprised by how big Sui had gotten. “It’s only been three days, but you’re already at level 4!”
It was possible that eating other worldly items had a similar effect as eating other worldly food. Sui didn’t gain many abilities, but they were getting stronger every day! Actually, having Sui eat all of their waste was a huge help. Before, Anthony just kept their rubbish in their item box. With Sui around, they had a better way of disposing their trash!
“You are so good, Sui!” Anthony peppered the slime with kisses. They vibrated happily.
Grrrrrrrmmm…!
Hearing Aziraphale’s stomach, Anthony chuckled. They put the slime down and walked next to the moody fenrir. “How’s about I cook an early dinner tonight?”
Aziraphale nodded. “Well… since you’re insisting. I’d prefer some orc meat.”
Anthony scratched his ears. They may bicker sometimes, but at the end of the day, they will always care for Aziraphale. “You got it.”
Hopping next their master, Sui was getting hungry, too. “Yes, I’ll make one for you as well.”
Anthony thought something simple but yummy would satisfy everyone. Remembering the red boar steak bowl they made a while back, Anthony thought an orc meat bowl with miso marinade and scallions would be good. It immediately met with Aziraphale’s approval as he feasted on the dish with glee. Sui looked at his dish with curiosity.
“Eat up, Sui!” Anthony said. “But remember not to eat the bowl, okay? Only the stuff inside it.”
The slime vibrated, understanding Anthony’s words. They picked up the pieces of orc and absorbed them.
“Now, my turn.” Anthony took a bite of his orc bowl and hummed. “Nailed it again!” Now that he’d gotten used to orc meat, he wasn’t as intimidated by it anymore.
“Exquisite as always, Anthony!” Aziraphale placed his empty bowl in front them. “May I have seconds, please? Oh! And with extra meat this time!”
Anthony chuckled. “You eat too fast for me to keep up!” Looking down at the slime, Sui had already finished their bowl as well. “I take it you want more, too?”
Sui hummed and vibrated in response, pushing their bowl to Anthony.
“Good to know both my familiars have big appetites!”
After that lovely dinner, Sui helped Anthony with the dishes. In the past few days, Sui learned to consume dirt and grime selectively. It was great since Anthony didn’t have to waste water or dish soap anymore. Using their appraisal, Sui picked up a few skill buffs during dinner. Realizing it, Otherworldly food only boost stats temporarily, but can’t improve levels. The effect was the same with Sui, too.
After Sui finished the dishes, Anthony picked them up and embraced them. “Thanks for helping with the washing, Sui!” The slime nuzzled their chest.
This was great. Aziraphale was skilled at hunting for ingredients and Sui was good with cleaning. Not a bad arrangement, really. “Say, we haven’t gotten a chance to officially celebrate you joining us yet! How about a treat before bed?”
Sui and Aziraphale were all for it. Anthony decided to buy a variety of macarons! All different flavors but each one wonderful in their own way. They even brewed a pot of black tea to go with them!
“Here, Sui!” Anthony handed them one. “I think you’ll like this chocolate one first.”
Anthony gave Aziraphale a raspberry flavored macaron. Savoring it, Aziraphale hummed in approval. “Delectable! It’s not too sweet and it’s soft yet crispy at the same time. While they are small in size, I do not mind that at all. Especially, when I’m in this form.”
“I noticed you tend to savor food a bit more in your human form than you do as your fenrir self.” Anthony pointed out.
“It’s because fenrirs don’t have cheeks.” Aziraphale said while gently pulling the side of his face. “We don’t really have time to chew and savor food as much. That’s why I always want seconds or thirds when I eat as a fenrir.”
“That checks out.” Anthony nodded. “Have you tried the Nutella one yet?”
Aziraphale plucked one from the plate and moaned in delight. “Mmm! The nutty chocolate flavor reminds me of those incredible crepes we had not so long ago!”
“Ah…! You really liked those crepes, didn't you?” Anthony grinned.
“These macarons are excellent, but I think crepes are my favorite sweet.” Aziraphale told them.
“We can have crepes for dessert next time.” Anthony promised. “Sui, what do you think of your first dessert?”
The little slime vibrated in response. Anthony took that as a yes. After everything was cleaned up, the three of them settled into the tent for the night. Sui was already fast asleep from all the food they ate. Anthony and Aziraphale laid next to them.
“They’re really cute when their sleeping, huh?” Anthony said while they pat the slime gently. “I mean, most babies are I guess. Even baby slimes.”
Aziraphale hummed in agreement. But looking through his eyes, Anthony had a feeling something was up with him. “You alright, Aziraphale?”
“I… I’d like to apologize for how I acted today.” Aziraphale’s ears drooped. “It’s just…. The reason why I suggest you should train with battle experience is because I know what you are capable of.” Aziraphale took their hand. “I’ve seen the strength and courage in you, Anthony. You may not see it, but I do. Since they day we met.”
Anthony rubbed their thumb on the top of his hand. “At the time I just wanted to protect my new friends. I knew I wouldn’t be able to fight off a legendary monster like you. But, I thought the best way to calm you down was by giving you what you needed. You’re not so bad when you get a decent meal in ya.”
Aziraphale smiled a bit. “Well… I hope I’m more to you than just ‘not so bad’.”
“Mm, yeah, you are more than that.” Anthony grinned. “And, you’re right. As scared as I was facing those goblins, it did help me get better with fire magic. Maybe something like that will help me master earth, too.”
“Only if you feel ready, though.” Aziraphale reassured them. “I want to help you get stronger. But I cannot force you into something you are not comfortable with.”
Anthony could feel their heart swell in their chest. If only people knew how incredibly gentle Aziraphale truly was. They even began to doubt Franca’s knowledge about the fenrir that destroyed a whole country. Humans have had a tendency to skew and distort historical facts for their own benefit. If Aziraphale did destroy a kingdom, there had to have been more to it than what was written in the history books of this world. At least… he hope so.
Anthony thought of asking about it, again. However, at the last minute, they decided to hold off on it for the time being. As close as they were, It was obviously a very touchy subject for Aziraphale. He was going out of his way to let Anthony train his magic skills at their own pace. It was only fair they met him halfway, too.
Anthony nodded and said, “I’ll definitely think about it. Thanks, Aziraphale.”
“Anything for you.” Aziraphale told them as he watched Anthony fall asleep.
“Fenrir….”
Aziraphale’s ears twitched. In the dead of night, it sounded as if someone was calling out to him.
“Wake up, my Fenrir.”
Recognizing the heavenly voice, Aziraphale woke up. “M-My lady!”
Covering his mouth so he didn’t wake up Anthony or Sui, Aziraphale snuck out of the tent and changed back in his true form. “Is that you calling me, Lady Margaret?”
“Ah, ah, ah… what do I keep telling you?” The goddess told him.
Aziraphale sighed through his nose. After all these years, he wasn’t used to being so informal with the wind goddess who blessed him. “My apologies, Maggie. I suppose I should have expected you would contact me. I know I haven’t kept up with my offerings to you and I am well overdue. Forgive me, Goddess. I will continue my prayers as soon as possible.”
“Fenrir, you know as well as I that I do not mind if you are late with your prayers and offerings.” She reassured her ward. “But that is not what I wish to discuss with you. If anything, I am more curious about the familiar contract you formed with the human, Anthony.”
Aziraphale realized his goddess would know about this sooner or later. He would have told her in time. But, with everything going on lately, he had been too preoccupied. “Ah, yes… Anthony…. Just to be sure, my lady, you are not upset I formed the contract with the human, are you?”
Maggie giggled in his ear. “My sweet Fenrir, I don’t think I could ever be angry with you. Like I said before, I am curious about him. Familiar contracts are binding, you know. I’m just wondering what brought on forming this kind of relationship. And with a human, no less.”
“I see…. Well, if you must know.” Aziraphale told Maggie everything. From following Anthony and his escorts, all the way up to the present day. As for Maggie, she just listened attentively to her ward. “So you see, Maggie, not only is Anthony an incredible cook, they are so brave and true of heart! I don’t think I’ve ever met a human with those kinds of rare qualities before! So… yes… those are the reasons I have taken a special interest in them. We’ve been getting along so well and we’ve been traveling together ever since!”
Aziraphale couldn’t see it, but Maggie was grinning from ear to ear. “Ahh…! So this is what has my lovely Fenrir so distracted?”
If Aziraphale was in his humanoid form, he’d be flushed from head to toes. “Actually, my lady, Anthony has given me the name, Aziraphale. I wish to be called that from now on, if that is alright with you?”
Maggie was absolutely thrilled. After all this time, she knew granting Aziraphale a humanoid form wasn’t a waste of a blessing! “If that is your desire to be called by your new name, then it shall be so! Now, as for Anthony, I can grant him a blessing, if that is what he wishes.”
Aziraphale’s tail wagged. “My lady, I’m sure Anthony would be very happy to receive a blessing from you! It would be a great help to him.”
“Unfortunately, I can only grant them a minor blessing since I can sense Anthony has no affinity for wind magic.” Maggie explained. “However, with a minor blessing, he will receive a boost to his current magic skills. Anthony will also receive full immunity from most illnesses and status ailments. The only exceptions are instant death and extreme curses.”
“Those are quite fair for a minor blessing.” Aziraphale agreed. “Regardless, I think Anthony will truly appreciate this. Thank you, Maggie.”
“When Anthony wakes up, be sure to let them know of the divine message I have bestowed upon you.” The wind goddess instructed. “Also, in order for them to receive my blessing, I require a weekly prayer offering of otherworldly sweets and desserts.”
“They will be more than glad to oblige, my lady!” Aziraphale told her. “I’ll be sure to inform them at sunrise. Your generosity knows no bounds. I, too, will continue my own offerings to you soon.”
“I do not ned to worry about you, Aziraphale.” She said to her servant kindly. “Oh, but, do keep me informed of more developments between you and Anthony, please? Only on occasion though!”
With that, Aziraphale could no longer hear Maggie. Aziraphale was glad his goddess was so understanding. Despite only being granted a minor blessing, it would benefit Anthony a great deal! Not only would it keep Anthony healthy, but it would make them stronger in the long run. As soon as the sun began to rise, Aziraphale immediately told his master the good news.
It came as a bit of a surprise to Anthony at first. After all, Aziraphale told him that it’s incredibly difficult to receive the blessing of a goddess, let alone a minor blessing. However, since the wind goddess had taken a newfound interest in their current domestic situation, she was more than happy to oblige. They just needed to keep up with weekly prayer offerings in order to receive her blessings. Anthony was never the religious sort, but if it meant they’d become stronger, they were willing to give whatever their new benefactress’ heart desired! Within reason, of course.
“So, she just wants sweets from my world?” Anthony asked. “That’s it?”
“For now, yes.” Aziraphale answered. “Also, Maggie requested that her first set of offerings be a variety of sweet crepes.”
Anthony realized they were becoming Maggie’s personal Uber Eats. “Sure, I can do that. But, what do I use in terms of an altar? And, how do I pray to her exactly?”
“Oh, anything will do for an altar.” Anthony reassured them. “You can even use that boulder there. As for your prayers, just convey your feelings to her sincerely. It’s as simple as that.”
Gathering the requested desserts, Anthony placed the items on the boulder neatly. They even added a cloth to make it look nice. Clasping their hands together, Anthony said, “Oh, Margaret, Goddess of Wind, I wish to thank you for looking out for me and Aziraphale. I have an offering of a variety of sweet crepes for you. I also added an iced latte to wash them down with. I hope they will be to your liking.”
It only took a few seconds for the offerings to be transported to the heavenly realm. Not long after Maggie received her order of crepes, she fulfilled her end of the bargain. Anthony’s body began to glow. For a minor blessing, Anthony felt lighter than before. On top of that, they could feel their magic skills increasing!
“So this is what receiving a minor blessing is like!” Anthony marveled at this incredible gift they received.
“Even minor blessings can make one rather strong.” Said Aziraphale. “Just remember to keep up with your prayer offerings and her blessing will remain.”
Anthony nodded. They looked to the sky and said, “Thanks a bunch, Maggie!”
Meanwhile, Maggie was on Cloud Nine! The sweet crepes tasted absolutely incredible. Otherworldly cuisine was on a whole other level than the swill served in the realm of the gods! As much as she tried to savor them, it was hard because of how tasty her offerings were. The iced latte paired perfectly with the crepes!
“They’re more incredible than they were in my dreams!” Maggie said as she finished the chocolate crepe. “How am I supposed to savor them when they taste this good!?”
Back on the surface, Anthony tested their earth magic again. Thanks to the minor blessing, their skills improved a great deal. Not only did their stone bullets increase in size, the force was strong enough to hit the target! “Alright! A direct hit!”
Sui watched them practice their magic. They didn’t fully know what happened to Anthony, but they were happy that their master was happy.
“This is all thanks to Maggie!” Anthony told them. “Because of the minor blessing, my magic is getting loads better! You’ve grown a lot, too, Sui! You’re at level 6 already!”
The little slimed hopped with glee. “Well, even with a minor blessing, I’m still a regular human that needs to practice more.” When they shot another stone bullet, Anthony felt their legs give out. “Woo…! I can tell I’m getting stronger, but magic still does a number on my body. What do you think, pal? Time for a snack break?”
Sui vibrated in agreement. If it meant they also got something yummy, they were down for a treat, too.
Anthony thought some chocolate with an iced coffee was the way to go. “Mmm… nothing beats a chocolate bar when you’re feeling tired.”
Sui’s little tendrils reached up to try and grab Anthony’s snack. He broke off a piece and handed it to the slime. “Don’t worry, you get some, too.”
In the meantime, they figured they’d just rest while they wait for Aziraphale to return. Before Anthony continued his magic training, Aziraphale mentioned about something he wanted to look into. He took off for the deeper part of the woods after that.
“Hmm… wonder if there’s an ingredient he wanted to hunt down for dinner tonight?” Anthony wondered. “What do you think, Sui?”
The little slime tilted their body to side and let out a soft hum. They didn’t really know what Aziraphale was up to either. They just hoped he would return soon.”
Fortunately, Aziraphale was back after a half an hour. “I have returned!”
“Hey! Welcome back!” Anthony greeted.
But before Aziraphale could respond, they sniffed the air around Anthony. “Did you two eat something in my absence?”
“Just some chocolate.” Anthony showed him the confection. “Magic practice really tired me out. So, I thought some sweets would perk me up a bit.”
Aziraphale’s ears twitched. “Sweet, you say!?” All of a sudden, he flopped onto his back dramatically. “You know, all of that running I did really wore me out. Thus, I, too, require some chocolate.”
Anthony snorted out a laugh. “You? Tired? A legendary monster, supposedly capable of taking out a whole country, is feeling worn out? You’ve only been gone for like, 30 minutes.”
Aziraphale huffed. “Yes, after that long, I’m feeling tired. Only chocolate can make me feel better now.”
“Hmm…” Anthony noticed that Aziraphale’s stomach was completely exposed. When he was in his fenrir form, there was no way Anthony could resist this golden opportunity. “Are you sure you’re feeling tired?” They asked while they slowly walked toward Aziraphale’s flank.
“Indeed, I am.” He answered plainly.
“Because, I think you have just enough energy for… THIS!”
“What…? What are you—!”
Anthony began scratching Aziraphale’s tummy with reckless abandon. It didn’t hit Aziraphale right away, but he started rocking his body and kicking his hind legs from the sensation.
“HAHAHAHA!! A-Anthony! You cheeky little—! HAHAHAHAHA!”
They straddled his soft belly and aimed for the sides next. “See! You still have enough energy for tummy scratches!”
Despite Aziraphale’s numerous claims of not being some mere dog, they certainly had a ton of dog-like traits and sensations. It would seem belly scratches was a big weakness for him. Now, Aziraphale was getting tired. His kicking began to slow, and he couldn’t take the tickling anymore. “Okay, okay! You win, Anthony! I surrender!”
Aziraphale panted from the strenuous activity while Anthony smirked. When Aziraphale calmed down, he glared at them and said, “That was not funny.”
“Sorry, I couldn’t resist.” They told him. “Anyway, I was gonna give you some chocolate when you got back. Here you go!”
As soon as Anthony placed the bowl of chocolate for Aziraphale, he was very quick to forgive them for their shenanigans. “Ah! Such a rich sweetness! Thank you, as always, dear Anthony!”
“Yeh, yeh.” But, just then, Anthony thought he heard something directly in his ear.
“Anthony… can you hear me? This is Maggie, Goddess of Wind. I have a divine message for you.”
“Oh! Um… H-Hi, your godliness! I didn’t think I’d be hearing from you.” Anthony fumbled a bit. They didn’t exactly know how to respond to a goddess. Even though Aziraphale told them she was rather informal, they still felt a bit awkward for gaining the attention of a divine being.
“Listen carefully, Anthony, for this is very important…. I would like for you to make me an offering of chocolate. Immediately.”
Anthony was completely underwhelmed. “So… this is really a divine message?”
“It is indeed a divine message.” She reassured him. “Oh! And while you’re at it, could you also put in an order of cream puffs for me as well? Thanks, you’re such a dear!”
Anthony groaned. But, if he wanted to keep his minor blessing, it was best to do as she said. “It’s only been a few days since my last prayer offering. What happened to the crepes I sent you?”
“I ate them all, obviously.” Maggie told them.
“Right… Okay, they’ll be there soon.” Anthony didn’t bother dolling up the altar this time. He just gave a quick prayer and sent the sweets Maggie’s way.
“Thank you, Anthony!” She said kindly. “I’ll let you know of my next request in a week. Take care of yourself and your familiars until then!”
Anthony let out an annoyed sigh. “Yep, got it.”
“I’m quite impressed, Anthony!” Aziraphale complimented them. “I’m glad you’re devoting your time to prayer. Maggie will be very pleased!”
“Eh, I wouldn’t really think of it as keeping up with my prayers.” Anthony told him honestly. “I’ve literally just became a one person restaurant for her. Anyway, you mentioned earlier you wanted to look into something. Did you find what you're looking for?”
“Ah, yes! Thank you for reminding me.” Aziraphale sat down in front of them. “I managed to find a dungeon just south of this forest.”
Anthony recalled the mention of dungeons the conmen told him about. “There're dungeons in these parts?”
“Quite a few actually!” Said Aziraphale. “The one I found is not too far from here. I was wondering if we could explore it so you could improve your earth magic. There are quite a number of monsters inside. But I think you’re at the proper level to face them. Only if you feel confident enough to enter one, of course. I will not force you if you don’t feel ready.”
Anthony pondered this for a moment. The thought of dungeons did intrigue him. However, considering they’d be facing more monsters this time around, made them feel a bit anxious. On the other hand, the minor blessing did make them feel stronger. Also, he figured since otherworldly food gave others in this world a boost, it could have a similar effect on him, too. As long as they filled themself up enough on food from their Online Retailer, it would give them the strength they needed to survive the dungeon!
Nodding, Anthony agreed. “Okay… sure, I think I’m ready to give the dungeon a go! But… you’ll be there with me? Right…?”
Aziraphale pressed his forehead to their’s. “I’ll be right by your side. I promise.”
Feeling reassured, Anthony felt more confident in facing the challenge ahead of him. He turned to Sui and asked, “What do you think, Sui? You up for some monster fighting, too?”
The little slime hopped into Anthony’s arms and vibrated with excitement. Everyone was ready to get some dungeon action in!
“Alright! Let’s go then!”