Aziraphale's bookshop (open post)

[sohoangel]

A.Z. Fell and Co.'s bookshop has stood on the same corner in London's vibrant Soho district since it was established in 1800. The hours posted in the store window seem more like a deterrent than anything, but to anyone who was formally invited, or simply has uncanny timing, the store will miraculously be open.

The shop smells like old books, pleasantly so to welcome visitors, and occasionally like baking. If Aziraphale is not behind the till, then he will come find you soon. Seeking him out, especially if you are trying to buy something, will prove fruitless.

Comments

[sohoangel]

"The angels here never consider that, either, and the demons just take advantage of it, perverting a human's pleasure of food and drink into gluttony. Perhaps it's because of my corporation, but I've learned to understand why humans enjoy food so much. It's a major aspect of humanity, like their desire for companionship, or their seemingly unquenchable curiosity. I think the more time you spend with them, the more you'll be able to understand them, too."

Aziraphale always thought that was the biggest problem for most angels, that they barely spent any time on Earth, and when they did, it was all Wings and Eyes and Spinning Wheels on Fire while they issued proclamations. Not exactly getting to know the natives.

As soon as he sees Nike lifting her glass of broth, he's quick to instruct her to remove the strainer so she doesn't end up with a mouthful of soggy fish flakes and seaweed. He does the same with his own mug and takes a small sip. It is indeed salty, but also rich with umami, a good base for a hearty noodle soup.

"Oh... well, salt adds flavor, but I think sodium is also important for human health... something to do with their electrolytes? I'm not sure, exactly." Nutrition is not really something that Aziraphale has ever concerned himself with. "It could probably stand to be diluted a bit more."

[magnetite_plz]

"Do the demons themselves not gorge on more than they need as well?" Interesting. They seem more focused on subverting Humanity here than on their own internal struggles for power. It seems more civilized, but she's wary of such trains of thought. Aziraphale has so far been the only celestial or fallen she's been able to approach without a constant terror gripping at her core.

She is reminded of it when she thinks too hard like now. But her panic is short lived and easily stifled. Aziraphale has learned to live among humans and indeed among the more dangerous types of demons she's seen in the Nexus and yet he uses none of the power he must have to do this. He gives off no malice, no pressure of radiance that would threaten to swallow her up.

Nike does not understand it. But she does appreciate this quiet hospitality.

"For health, and for flavor." The two things seem to be somewhat intertwined. A matter of survival again perhaps, making things the body needs more enjoyable to consume. "I apologize for asking so many questions. Yours is a rare experience that I am gratified to be able to tap."

[sohoangel]

"I don't actually know the answer to that," Aziraphale admits. "You'd have to ask Crowley, he knows more about what the other demons get up to. Crowley enjoys food, too, although he has less of a sweet tooth than me."

Hopefully the thought of talking to Crowley doesn't make her anxious. Although far flashier than Aziraphale (and more dramatic, the angel would argue, despite being a bit of a drama queen himself at times), it's almost all for show. He certainly doesn't toss his power about, and in some ways he's even better at living among humans than Aziraphale is.

He gives Nike a warm smile. "Yes, exactly. And you can ask as many questions as you like, my dear. That's how we learn." Aziraphale didn't always feel that way, but human curiosity has given him such insight into how the world works, he doesn't think of it as a vice the way other angels might. "Now, then... I've lost track of our mugs, I'm afraid. Is there anything left for us to try?"