The Cauldron

A large iron pot had appeared at the exact same time as did the cone of light, and it was full to the top with steaming water.

The Pontiff pulled up his sleeve and slipped his hand in, up to the elbow, and drew out a beet. He then held it up to Francis.

"Where did this come from?" asked Francis smiling at what he just saw. He had heard of the wonders of this man and now they were being confirmed. He passively took their ignominy.

"From God" said the old man plainly.

"What I mean to ask your Holyness is: where did the water come from that is cooking the beet right now?"

“From God" replied the Pontiff, again in a voice that was matter-of-fact.

"Yes yes, but where did the pot, that is vessel to the stew, come to manifest from?"

"Nepali" said the Pope ... "I acquired it from a blacksmith there who makes bowls that can sing when you strike them."

"Yes, I see. But" persisted Francis, "but how did the bowl with the water with its fruit appear here?"

"Magic" replied the Pontiff - "how else?"

Francis looked a second time over to the cauldron, noticing that the steam that was rising from the top was gathering into sprite-like forms.

- Gabriel Brunsdon, AZLANDER: NEVER ENDINGS: Second Chances