16133/The Night Market

The Night Market
Date of Scene:	21 March 2024
Location:	Lucifer's Penthouse, Melville
Synopsis:	Lucifer and Nathaniel take Nick to the Night Market. Lucifer finds a treasure he wasn't aware was stolen and Nick happens upon a magical mirror that Nathaniel purchases. An interesting night, indeed.
Cast of Characters:	Lucifer, Sinister, Phantasm (Drago)

---

Lucifer has posed:
Lucifer has actually been in a very good mood all day, getting everything for the club sorted early and making sure he has enough coverage so he can take the night off for a special occasion. It's late evening when the text to Nick is finally sent, <You awake? Dressed? Up for an adventure? Come to the Penthouse. ~L.M.> Then, the Devil gets dressed in his best attire with gothic flare. The suit is silk-lined velvet of midnight blue, with a deep blood red handkerchief tucked in the left breast pocket. As he's getting ready - and of course he's relayed information to Nathaniel about the plans for the evening - he's in the bathroom giving himself a bit of a priming.

"It's always exciting taking someone new to the market. I just hope Nick enjoys himself.."

Sinister has posed:
The man in the mirror does look dashing. The other man in the mirror BEHIND the dashing figure, smiles at the reflection. Arms reaching around, there's that tiny extra fuss with the tie, smoothing lines with a smile on his face, crooked. "I just hope he doesn't get dragged into something ridiculous, that's always a possibility there, considering..."

Sin has a top hat. It has black cockerel feathers in the brim, that hang over the edge in a waterfall -- the fascinator matches the rest of the attire, very victoriana, with the collar of the black snake-skin frock coat bedecked with more such cockerel feathers, exacting graceful arcs toward gravity. Silver cufflinks over a crimson shirt, stick out from his sleeves, with fine moleskin to finish things off in gloves and trews. Purple lennon shades rest upon his nose today.

"By the by, did a shipment come in? Or is there a surprise that /I/ am liable to be intrigued by, also?"

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
The first signs of the musician's arrival is of course a musical one for those tuned in for those types of thoughts.

<span style="color:xterm46"<'...I've been hidiiiiing for far too long
Seems like forever been singin on this song
I've been tryiiiiiiin too hard, too long
Seems like forever been singin on this song
Like forever been singin on this song'</span<

Whoever said 'the devil is in the details' never got a text message from one. As Nick reads the text, there are several questions that come to mind. But being no attire is specified in said message and the key word of 'adventure' is in there, Nick dresses comfortably.

As the elevator doors part open, the musician's revealed to be wearing simple fare. Jeans, a dark colored shirt, and a knit cap.

What? It's still cold out.

Stepping out, Nick looks to the pair in their respective attire. There's a pause before Nick reaches into his pocket again to tug out his phone, bringing up the text message again. "...Is there a dress code where we're going?"

Lucifer has posed:
"Little of column A, and a bit of side B. Shipments come and go... but we might be delighted in what's on offer this time. Plus, Nick will be in our company and not much goes wrong when the Devil visits the Night Market." Lucifer says all this and smiles gently at the fuss being given to his attire. "Also, I love your hat. Well the whole ensemble, but the hat is..." And he gives a chef's kiss.

After the fussing is over, and all the priming is done, he steps out of the bathroom and down the hall to the living room just as Nick arrives. A glance over to what the man is wearing and the smile never falters. "Not specifically, but I -do- like dressing up when I go where we're going. This will be Nathaniel's second trip and your first." He offers. "A couple things. The currency is weird. There is an ATM to withdraw cash, but you then have to get it exchanged for the currency of whomever you're buying from. If anything. If it gets too confusing, just let me know and I can help you out." He chuckles. "Also, don't ever buy from the man in the red feathered cap. He's a cheat, and his stuff is always knockoffs. Wander, but not too far, and if anything feels really off... like even for US off, tell me and I'll deal with it." He looks back at Nathaniel. "I think that covers all of it. Now, I can get us to where we need to meet the train and we have...." He looks at his naked wrist. "Ten minutes before it departs, so, off we pop!"

Sinister has posed:
"I was a little inspired by your last venture," Nathaniel takes a step back, tipping the top hat in the most dashing and suave manner possible, complete with rolling it up his arm and elbowing it back to his head in a not-so-subtle bit of chicanery. There's a glance to the elevator, the prelude of a song that has him looking straight at it whilst the doors open and emit the Phantasm.

"Nick, as Lucifer said, he's got a dandy streak when it comes to making impressions on the street. You will blend in like a sore thumb in amidst the annual blind carpenter's convention first aid tent. Don't worry."

Sin can't help but silently chuckle at that last, though. A hair past a freckle tells one's own internal chronometer when the mystical is about to impact on the world in that specific way that it does. ANd so, therefore, he tucks a hand in the crook of Lucifer's elbow and looks to Nick expectantly.

And just in case that wasn't obvious enough -- "I'd hurry up and loop in on your uncle."

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
When the lack of a dress code is confirmed, Nick gives a nod. Well that's good. He quiets as he listens to the explanation for the rules and the mention of various currencies to deal with. "...So is this an international market?"

Sinister's prompt causes for him to blink. "Oh-" That type of transport. Taking a page from the Phantasm playbook, he makes his way over to the couple, reaching out a hand to touch upon Lucifer's arm.

Lucifer has posed:
This time it's not steps, but a simple engulfment of flame that doesn't seem to burn and then they are at a train station. Familiar in that there are sounds of hustle and bustle behind them, but this platform seems to be a bit...out of place. When they arrive, the train is boarding. It's a bit...ghastly looking. The cars appear to be in rough shape on the outside, but Lucifer simply strides towards one of the cars, keeping Nathaniel's arm looped into his own.

"International is...one way to put it. But, also, not really the truth." He begins before he shows three tickets to the coachman who then lets them board. This is one of those cars with separate quarters for people to sit in and Lucifer chooses one for the tree of them to slip into. (Think the train cars from Harry Potter.)

"We are going to a place called the Night Market. It's ran by the mystics. All walks of life come here, divine, other-planar, alien...whatever you wish to call them. They sell artefacts, furniture, knick-knacks...and for decent prices too. This is where we went to furnish the penthouse with all you see in the living area now." He smiles. "I thought you might appreciate at least a visit to see it."

Sinister has posed:
"So naturally, the currency is all kinds of weird, depending on who you trade with. I think I bought an antique curio cabinet for two sneezes and a smile, last time." A pause as the train boarding continues around, he doesn't release his arm from Luci's until they're in the little 'first class' compartment. He settles facing the way that they'll be travelling, the seat by the window open beside him. Fog seems to be curling on the other side of the panes of glass that form the window, which was not present in the station itself.

He considers that, as he stands, waiting for the others to settle, like a gentleman. "I doubt that I shall be so lucky in the payment this go around, but you never know. How have you been, since Harry's by the by?"

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
As the group appears in the station, Nick releases Lucifer's arm and glances about. When the train comes to view, Nick raises a brow. Well, they certainly have a bit of a vibe going for them. Although it is a stark contrast to the high speed ones he spent considerable time on when touring China.

The inside is nicer though. Not quite like the deluxe sleepers but- they're only going shopping, not overnighting. Sliding to the bench seat across from the couple, he glances to the window, peering to the platform outside. "Ok, so various realms as well." Hmm. Makes sense.

Looking over to Sinister, he nods as he explains the payment system. "Maybe this time around you'll get something for a song." Nick chuckles at the small joke, before glancing to the window. "Well...I already met Rogue a few times. Logan seemed..."

He pauses, "...I'm not sure what to make of him. He's-"

How does one describe Logan. "...He seems like he's seen a lot of shit."

Lucifer has posed:
It doesn't take long for the train to finish boarding. Mostly because, as one might have already discerned, not a lot of people board this train to begin with. The tickets are bought special, Lucifer had to plan this in advance. So it isn't too long after they've sat and settled that there are calls of 'All Aboard!' and the train whistle blowing to indicate a soon departure.

"I do not know him well at all. He doesn't like me. He believes in me. Believes in the evil that I supposedly stand for. And that's all he sees. There is nothing I can say or to to disuade him of that notion. And the fact that I am partnered in life with Nathaniel...seems to irk him even more." Is said idly with a single-shoulder shrug before he smiles gently towards Nathaniel. "But he seems to be a man who marches to the tune of his own drum - of that I am most certain."

Then he switches back to the other topic. "Maybe a song will get you something. A punch in the face something else. But there are creatures who deal in actual currency of sorts. Hence the ATM and exchange booth. But also, I have plenty of funds in several sources...and I do not mind spending it on anything you might find interesting." A pause. "I could use any excuse to rid myself of most the currency I have, actually..." Ending with a chuckle.

Sinister has posed:
Sinister grins at that last. "You've had a long time to acquire it and not really much opportunity to spend. Frankly, you could probably sit pretty on some of it for eternity and still never run out." The cabin seems destined for a cigarette holder, roaring 20's inspired though it is. A trio are set out from his inside pocket, just in case of desire and Sin settles just as the train begins to roll out.

Soon, the locale of NYC fades out from the windows, replaced by flashes of lurid colour and ice-laden fog. It swirls against the panes and occasionally makes it creek, rather ominously.

This is ignored by the doctor though as he lights up. "The irony of his being world weary and having seen a lot of things is that he's not even sure how he knows things these days. Memory issues... I doubt he'll ever perceive the fact that he /volunteered/ for the treatment he was put through by the military. But yes, the devils you know is playing issues with him there, Lucifer. It's one of those few circumstances where it's because of -me- that you're painted with tar."

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
"Well, when someone forms an opinion with little basis, and it seems like they're never going to change their mind regardless of what you do, there's little point worrying about it."

The offer to help out does get a thought... he's not sure what he'd buy at a mystic market but- still the offer's a nice sentiment and appreciated.

Nick looks over to Sinister as he explains the connection between him as Lucifer as being a source of the condemnation. "Guess that doesn't bode well for me either." Nick comments, smiling to the doctor. "Even though Betsy was the one doing the recruiting it seems like he assumed you did." He gives a shrug, "He still seems willing to work with you with that issue though..."

Lucifer has posed:
Lucifer takes one of the proffered cigarettes from Nathaniel and lights it with a snap of his fingers. The smoke escapes from the slightly open window that also lets in a waft of fresh air every now and again. As the train continues onward through the fog, the fog seems to get thicker and thicker as they continue down the track. Of course, having been on this train a few times, Lucifer seems unbothered by this. Like it's a usual occurrence when taking this trip.

The train ride will last a good half an hour before it comes to a stop - but Lucifer doesn't move. A mass of people disembark and then the train blows it's whistle once - sounding normal. Twice - normal again. Yet on the third time the whistle has a bit of an ethereal sound to it, like something from another world.

"Now the real journey begins. Hang on to yer pants..." Lucifer jokes, settling back with one hand on Nathaniel's lap and then other streched out against the back of the bench.

Sinister has posed:
The arrival at their destination is heralded on the part of Sin, by closing his eyes and resting his head back on the stuffed apolstery of the private cabin, chin lifted and listening with something other than his ears. The third whistle is what brings about the grin -- which only gets wider when his lap becomes an object d'affection. Though that in and of itself, has him spocking an eyebrow up. "Are we to be travelling in insane style, or are we just waiting for the rush of disembarking to slow down a bit?" is asked, even as he's giving the hand in his lap a squeeze.

The chances are strong he's not waiting for an answer though, as he's rising and proffering a hand to the Lord of Hell as the cabin door slides open unbidden. Eyes turn upon Nick, looking over the top of his purple shades.

"A little word of warning, don't eat the food, unless it's from an actual vendor. Mostly, the market is above board and has its own policing, but there's an occasional unscrupulous unseelie about."

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
When the train comes to a stop, Nick glances out the window initially to see where they ended up but seeing no one else in the group getting up, he remains seated. His head turns, observing the shadow of persons walking by the door to make their way out. He looks back to the couple.

Sin's advice gets a nod. "...No such thing as a free meal." He sums up, giving a nod.

Free drinks too. No telling what other things someone might wake up on the floor finding themselves with...

Lucifer has posed:
Lucifer takes the proffered hand and stands as well, giving a chuckle to Nathaniel's questions. "Well, there's two stops technically. One is the final stop for regular folk, and then once the whistle goes weird, we've arrived at our stop." He explains this and then begins the walk to disembark the train. There's a nod of agreement to the warning given to Nick but he doesn't speak much more on the subject given Nathaniel offered a fair warning.

As they disembark from the train, the fog eventually seems to part - almost like someone is ripping the clouds in half - and the pathway leads to an open market. Vendors of all sorts, shapes, and sizes are peddling their wares. Some talk in gibberish langugae, others speaking English, but that all depends on who they are talking to. As customers are also from all sorts of places, planes, planets and the like. This is definitely a mystical melting pot.

"If you decide to walk away, never go too far if you don't mind. But if you find yourself in trouble, just...tell us. However you can." Is offered finally as they take their first steps within the market proper.

Sinister has posed:
Even the architechture is otherworldly, as if the place was grown, like a seed in the soil, out of living rock and the city itself. Girders and concrete mix with bark-like stonework to hold up a roof made of apparently... solid air. It does not APPEAR to be glass at least, though a late March sleet is being suspended high above, on seemingly nothing at all!

There's little that can compare so far as senses go; the sights are one thing, the sounds another, but the smells? Impossible to describe, as some of the tantalizing and torturous aromas do not come from this world. Or even this /plane/ chances are... and the human olifactory arrangements don't quite know what they're making of it.

Maybe J.K. Rowling dreamed of this place when she wrote of diagon Alley?

As Sin crooks his elbow, to link arms with his partner, dragonfly people zip from a ledge above on the station platform, holding tiny bolts of brightly coloured fabric.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Once the explanation to the whistle change is given and the other two are both standing, Nick shifts to his feet. He follows the pair off of the train, and once they start making their way towards the market, Nick looks curiously to the two. "...How long until we need to be back at the train?"

Pale eyes scan across the scenery, looking for anything that catches the eye.

The rocker's steps slow to a stop as he takes in a breath. What is th-

Right. Don't lose the ones who know where they're going.

Nick's steps quicken, working to cut down on the lead the couple has.

Lucifer has posed:
"Suppose I'm used to the smells... or maybe spent just enough time in Hell, weird smells don't really get to me..." Lucifer says this as he looks up and around, spying the dragonfly kin and their fabric. "Oh. Maybe we should look for a few space themed items... but like... from other parts of space. Then we can challenge ourselves to find them in our living room." He says this with a little smirk and then looks to Nick.

"That one over there, with the big eyes and shrunken mouth... that's who sold us some of our furniture pieces. And I got Pandora's Box from here as well. Already opened with only Hope left within it of course..." He explains. "So really, what you may discover here is limitless..to a point.." Then he thinks.

"I should have thought to bring my friend Askante here a time or two. It would have loved this place, I think..."

Sinister has posed:
"Given the size of these fabric bolts, we'd have to create a miniature america land to festoon with it all, or some kind of insane collector's doll's house. What ever would you even -do- with ..." Sin eyes the gossamerlike fabric that's being peddled at him by grinning fae-like beings "...well, it IS a rather lovely thing and so very finely woven... no! No, no thank you..." a pause then he finishes his thought "...I mean that would be a very interesting collection of otherworldly hankies."

Lucifer's given a consideration for the information shared and then he looks beyond, to the furniture dealer, strolling past a booth that gives you all kinds of feels. Literally.

"I wondered how you ended up with it. I wonder how -this- place ended up with it, for that matter."

A gesture is made to an area partitioned off like a souk, with tent poles and domes of linen. "Ingredients for various mystical things, yes? We were collecting something and I'm sure we're low on dragon teeth. Again. Oh..." he looks to Nick "...I've never asked this before, but are you actually able to cast sympathetic magic? My own experiments in that regard were absymal, though I seem to have invocation occasionally down. I think that's all about mind, will and intent."

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Nick's steps slow as the lead is cut away, turning his head to look in the direction of the big eyed, tiny mouthed vendor. Considering the apartment was pre-furnished and the small blueprint, it is safe to assume Nick was not in a furniture shopping mood.

Maybe books... Music related items...

And then Lucifer brings up Askante.

...could keep an eye out for something shiny too. Hmm. Would they like something warm?

Nick blinks as Sinister directs a question to him regarding spells. "...You mean like voodoo dolls and paired items acting like two sides of a portal?" He wonders aloud. He pauses, "...Would what was done with the feather count? Or cramming the energy of a spell inside of escrima sticks?"

Lucifer has posed:
"Artefact dealers. One should never ask where, when or how they get their items... but do recall I got the fluted pipe from someone here last time we came as well. Besides, if not my hands, what safer place is there to keep such items?" Lucifer asks this to Nathaniel with a grin before taking a breath to look around again. "Also, I could use some new handkerchiefs to tuck into the pockets of my suits - thank you very much." This with a little huffed grin before he thinks on things.

"Could also use some dragon's blood, eye of a baited kilain, and a few feathers of the downy brawns..." He lists off as if Nathaniel would know precisely what he is talking about and be able to keep an eye out for such supplies. "We don't need any more furniture unless we find a bed that we just cannot pass up."

There is something Lucifer is going to find here that might raise his heckles just a bit. But they haven't passed an artefact vendor yet. It won't be hard to see it though. Eternal Flames tend to burn....eternally.

Sinister has posed:
"I don't ... know? I assume so. Although, I had the feeling when you created the feather, it was a bit of a surprise that it lasted as long as it did. I think that's a bit of a self-fullfilling moebius loop of power though, because of synergy." Sinister muses that, but shrugs thereafter "Really not my field of expertise... I barely even dabble and have only successfully invoked anything the once. And only, I think, because I've a bond with the Devil himself." Side-eyeing Lucifer with a grin at the hankie need, he motions to the little dragonfly people and gestures to the entire collection to be brought down, even as his gaze peers over the top of the spectacles toward the ingredients bazaar. "Right. I shall be sure to remind you of the things that I have no idea what they look like from a hole in the wall... but in case you forget, I'm here with your friendly reminder of a clue stick to the thought processes." Winking to the devil, all will not be well, when the eternal flame is seen. But not yet. Oh, not yet.

"I might seek out an -experience- this time, you know. For the sake of research and furthering my studies. I'm happy to go with recommendations."

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
"It's not my area of expertise either." Nick admits, glancing around, "I apparently don't NEED to put the Michael one into the sticks. I just had it in my hands when I swatted the gnats. But... it makes it much easier to pass the spell over to another to use if it's contained in something."

Loki did seem pretty amused when he was given a bespelled stirring spoon to un zombify people in the coffee shop that got attacked.

He pauses, "...From what I saw at the school, different people had different specialties. Some required ingredients. Mine's more focused on the verbal. Either Bardic or sorcery. Kind of up in the air of which one. Mostly will and intent is a factor. Probably some subconscious structure..."

Nick looks to the wares being shown by the dragonflys. He does have to admit they look nice. Although he wonders how the sellers feel about the idea of such nice work being used for people to blow their noses into.

Lucifer has posed:
"An experience, hmm? You could go spectral sighting...if you wanted something among the more worldly experience... You know... I actually don't really know too many of the experiences they sell here. But I encourage you to go on an excursion...for the sake of research and furthering your studies." Lucifer offers this with a wink to Nathaniel, because something tells him there's a little more to it than just research and the like. Experiences can do something to you, especially in the Night Market. But Nathaniel can take care of himself, yes? With Lucifer just a mental call behind if something dire occurs.

"Well. Items for magical use are in abundance here... there's actually an occult of the netherworld which sells things you have likely only heard people think the item exists." He says this to Nick as they continue walking. Likely waiting for Nathaniel to toddle off for his experience while he ensures Nick doesn't stray too far or get caught up in some wayward dealing.

All of these things completely exit his mind when he turns to look within one of the tents and just...stops. Dead. No motion. It's a long moment before his eyes flare hellfire red and a growl settles deep within his throat. Something's set him off, and it's not pretty.

Sinister has posed:
"You don't? Interesting." Nickward that was. "I wonder." Quietly murmured, Lucifer receives the lion's share of attention, even if it's not liable to last for too long, in the here and near.

"Really? Huh. Well, perhaps I should save that for a moment when you can indulge in it also..." because experience, the physicality of the sensation junkie, is a thing. Once a thing done solo, now a thing shared and translated because of it. Different and perceptively so. But something DOES catch attention and he DOES totter off -- a mystical or rather an exotic stall that sells animals of and NOT of this world. "Fascinating...."

That last can be heard as Sin disappears between the crates, as the world gets tense and hellfire flares. Oh, he'll be back imminently, but for a moment, this will be ENTIRELY Nick's issue to handle.

It happens sometimes. It's never usually good when it does. Flashing fire can turn into an inferno, if there's suitable kindling.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
"Yeah. Could you IMAGINE the damage if I had to swat at gnats with an escrima stick?" Or if going with items that were immediately available at the time he encountered them... a towel bar.

When there's a sudden silence coming from Lucifer, Nick turns his head in the direction he last heard his uncle in. When he finds him still, glaring into the tent, curiousity tinged with a bit of concern steers him. Without really processing it, he walks over. "Is everything okay?" Nick queries, moving to Lucifer's side before glancing in to the tent to see what has drawn the devil's attention.

Lucifer has posed:
"How the fuck did they get their hands on it..." Lucifer asks, probably no one, but Nick is right there. As if he would know the answer.

Peering into the tent reveals artefacts of all sorts. (Some are fakes however, duplicates if you will) Boxes and vases of all sorts, trinkets marked as the handbag of Juxposition, or the Tiara of Temptation. However, one thing stands out among all the others. Imagine the Tesseract, but with fire in the middle. Ever burning, surrounded by a box of blue. So one would think, if it's ice, the fire would melt enough to go out. But also, the box seems enclosed, so there's no oxygen to fuel the fire. Yet it still burns. Forever and ever.

The Eternal Flame.

It doesn't look like much when looking at it, but it's definitely significant enough to make the Lord of Hell a bit pissy that it's here and... "...Not where I left it..."

Sinister has posed:
Now isn't that fascinating. Secondary sets of eyes on the thoraco-abdominal junction. Literally eyes on its back, a fascinating little evolutionary trait and why did that come about I won'...

Sin can move fast when he has to. Or when he wants to. Superhuman speed, though no 'faster than a speeding bullet' or 'gone in a Flash' kind of velocity. But it's just not something anyone really expects of -him- to be that quick.

Nick's looking into the tent beside his uncle, suddently his uncle's partner is on the other side, laying a hand upon the Archangel's shoulder. "There will be a paper trail, or rather an unfortunate series of events," he says this in a calm, terribly unruffled sort of tone. "I do recommend against excessive firm questioning though, it tends to bring out the falsehood."

He stares through the flap, gaze settling on the thing that drew ire. One is not allowed to touch Lucifer's things without his permission. Generosity is a counterbalance to an extraordinary level of possessiveness. "Didn't that come from the gate East of Eden?" - is asked, curiously.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Nick, lacking context glances around the tent for a moment before glancing back to Lucifer. Taking note of where he's looking, he turns his head to look over to the fire.

Lucifer's muttered comment causes for Nick to spin back to Lucifer. "... Are we sure this is what it looks like?" Maybe they're looking to an elaborate illusion?

Lucifer has posed:
"...Mmmn..." Lucifer looks over to the sudden arrival of Nathaniel and takes a breath to try and steady himself. "I'm trying..." He says gently and then straightens himself up, breathes out and steps in to follow Nathaniel.

There's a side-eye to Nick and he nods. "I would think this...except I know that is mine." Offering this before walking towards the item as Nathaniel asks about it so openly. "It is a lovely item.." He offers, more aloud and to the owner of the tent.

The owner smirks a little, and puts on a Face. "Oh yes. From the very Gate itself. Eden holds such lovely items, and is a place of true wonder. A glorious masterpiece from one of the most vile creators in the universe." His speech is slithered, velveteen. And he keeps at least one eye on Lucifer as if in true interest. Or perhaps fascination.

Sinister has posed:
Sinister shoots Nick a look. There's just an infinitessimally slight headshake. Certain things, apparently, are as fundamental as the air that people breathe. It might be invisible, but you absolutely know that it's there. And that it belongs in your lungs. His gaze tracks over to the item, then the vendor as he steps into the tent, another glance to Nick with a glance away at the other items -- a subtle cue to peruse, but one that could VERY easily be missed.

He himself listens like he was a bag full of ears, but LOOKS ever so nonchalant as he picks up this or that trinket, oh-so-grandiosely named. He is, as it were, keeping a finger on this pulse, to see if it suddenly starts racing.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Hearing Lucifer confirm the item as being his, Nick doesn't argue, simply giving a slight nod before seeing Sinister's headshake. The musician frowns, backing up as he turns to look to the other items in the tent. The frown remains as he's left to wonder what's so wrong about just making sure you're right before getting the proverbial pitchforks out...

Lucifer has posed:
"Lovely items. Like the Flaming Sword. That might have caught you a fair price...sold to the highest bidder..." Lucifer begins, looking over to the merchant. "Or those lovely apples... I bet if you picked one and sold it as The Forbidden Fruit... you might catch yourself a good day." He walks over to the Eternal Flame, picking it up and looking it over a few times.

"But this... did not come from Eden... you know it. I know it. So let's cut to the grit. You do not have the rights to own this... but then... you didn't have the rights to Pandora's Box either...and all that was left inside was a bit of Hope."

"..." A slight smirk, "I knew I recognized you..." He looks to Nathaniel and Nick, one by one. "Brought some friends along this time I see...and one of them's got an interesting scent..."

Lucifer grins. "I'll make you an offer. I take back what is rightfully mine. You tell me how you came to acquire it. And when next I come back I will bring you something worth far more than this would ever fetch you. You'll make what you were thinking of getting ten times over without batting an eye..."

The vendor sneers and eyes Lucifer up once and down another. "...What could YOU possibly offer ME that's worth more than what yer holdin' there. I got it fair and square...so it best be worth it."

Sinister has posed:
Sinister listens. When the words start spilling out, he sets down a trinket that was stating it was the bottle that contained a genie and turns slowly to face the elf and the archangel, tucking his hands slowly int he small of his back and squaring off, military parade stance. At the mention of aromatic presences, he looks keenly at Nick and back.

"He /is/ trying to do this the nice way," is said rather calmly, looking intently at the elf himself. Memorizing. Is he out of his depth here? Oh, you bet your bum he is. But he's still Sinister and there are habits that are hard to break.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Nick pauses, looking to a bit of mirror propped up upon the side of another product. Not really all that interesting except, the area reflected behind him looks a bit different than the tent. Tilting forward, he glances over to it. To make out the view of the inside of a cave. To where the tent opening is, the cave opening is reflective, giving a few of rich green hills in the distance. Nick's eyes narrow. What in th-?

He closes his eyes, for a few moments, focusing more on the conversation going on behind him until the comment is heard.

"Oh for- " Nick's eyes roll to the comment before he turns to look over to the elf. "What is it with people and smelling others? I shower. And the soap is a bit scented."

Humor or seriousness?

The world may never know.

... Ok the mind readers in the tent might know. But the rest of the world. It's a mysteryyyy...

Lucifer has posed:
Lucifer straightens himself up after a moment and pivots sharply so he's now facing the vendor. "What can I offer? Many things. So many things. I could even give you what you desire most. Or perhaps help quell a guilt inside you..." Nostrils flare, gently, but likely noticeable by those who know him well. Then the Devil grins.

"But I did have something specific in mind. My companions can vouch for me. I must go and retrieve this item you see... and I promise to bring it to you. If you let me take this back to it's proper place." He could actually get this item right here and now. But Lucifer has a thing about showing his 'true' self here. So no wings, black or white, and no looking like the Devil true...or Samael proper. No. He'll go home, get the item he's offering, and then bring it back. "So..." He takes one step forward and extends a hand. Eyes flaring with hellfire briefly. "Do we have a deal?"

Sinister has posed:
Sinister tucks his hands quietly into the small of his back as the deal is proffered, eyes on the elf for a long and lingering moment, then the Archangel in his moment of trying (and succeeding we'll observe) to keep his cool. He inclines his head to the devil, looks beyond to Nick and then subtley... away to the other things on offer again. The bottle that was supposedly the one with the genie, is set down carefully where he got it from.

Though the urge to speak out might be strong, he is holding his silence. Occasionally, such things are as golden as sunlight.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Nick quiets as the deal is being proposed, seemingly picking up that maybe now's not a good time to be interrupting bargains being struck. Catching glimpse of Sinister turning back to look his way. Seeing the bottle being set down, he glances back over to the mirror. Brows lift as Nick quickly steps away from the mirror.

The figure reflected does the same, going deeper into the cave. But, the figure doesn't look like Nick anymore. Instead the reflection seems more hooded in shadow. As he moves a bit further away, the reflection fades back to that of the tent.

Nick watches the rest of the negotiation in silence, lips tighted shut.

Lucifer has posed:
The vendor narrows eyes at the Devil and then takes a deep breath. "My kind have always held themselves to be a good judge of character. And you seem to have seen through my ruse...which makes me wonder just who - or what - are you. But...I will honor this bargain. You may take the flame with you. I expect you back the next time the market is open." He says this and then looks to Nick who is backing away from that mirror.

"Ah. A glimpse into the past. Be it your past or someone else connected to you... it is an interesting mirror. For the reflection is different to any of those who gaze upon it. Are you interested?" Cause, you know, vendor's gotta try to make a sale.

Lucifer shakes an outheld hand after the vendor speaks and then nods. He turns to the Eternal Flame, picks it up and then somehow manages to shrink it down and then places it in his pocket. A shift and he steps aside to Nathaniel. "How was your experience?"

Sinister has posed:
"Pending. Although..." the talk of the mirror has Sinister looking at it long and hard. "I will take it, if you don't mind. Such things are curious, indeed." He looks to the elf, then to the mirror, his head tilting slightly to the side. Questions WILL be asked of Lucifer in a wee bit, when they're at a food vendor or somesuch thing.

"What is your price?"

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
The vendor's explanation causes for Nick to glance back to the mirror. With it still showing the tent in the reflection, his posture relaxes a bit. To the question, his lips part slightly but a response a bit delayed. But it need not be an issue as he hears Sinister declare an interest in it.

"By all means." Nick responds, relinquishing any claim to the product. Nor does he seem to be grieving the loss of such an item to the doctor. "Have at it."

Lucifer has posed:
Eyes narrow from the vendor as they shift to Nathaniel who near immediately shows interest in the mirror. "It's a hundred kurillen..." He offers. Which dollars to kurillen is...well...a large number. (Please do not make the typist do math) But it's easily affordable by the doctor and/or his companion.

Lucifer smirks and side eyes Nathaniel before giving a nod. "A good price for what it supposedly does... many an interesting thing might be gleaned from such a mirror..." He comments to Nathaniel - perhaps quietly so - and then looks over towards Nick. "Anything aside from the mirror catching your eye, Nick?"

Sinister has posed:
"Well, now I have to actually do a wire transfer to that blasted ATM. But you have a deal," Sinister informs the vendor, looking to his phone. All he does is look, the wonders of being him. Nick receives the lion's share of attention then, after a sotto voce sidelong: "Oh and then some. There are many things that I ponder when hindsight is twenty twenty. It would be quite surprising to find out that it isn't. Anyhooo..." another glance to the phone and somewhere else, a ticket is printed out, for currency exchange.

"You'll have it delivered of course." That's not a question, that's a statement.

He then cocks his head at the rockstar, looking lengthily and again, rather curiously to Nick.

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Nick shakes his head in response to Lucifer's question. "Huh?" He pauses, glancing to the other items he had been looking at prior to the mirror stealing the show. "...I didn't really notice anything else." He pauses, taking note of a pair of shoes. A rather plain looking stick. And keys.

...

He looks to the elf.

...Wait a minute.

...

"Does that mirror have limited uses before it goes away?"

Lucifer has posed:
"Ah, there's a good question. But no, it's unlimited. It's an enchanted piece, so unless you know someone who can disenchant elvish magic..." The vendor answers Nick's question. Then he looks to Nathaniel once more and gives a nod. "It will be delivered. Just let me know the place to send it.."

Lucifer smirks. "You could have just let me pay it, you know. I told you I have enough currency for most the vendors here that I've no fucking clue what to do with." He says this much and then motions. "Anyway. Let's get him paid and get out of here to grab some food, and then see if Nick wants to look anywhere else... but we can probably leave as soon as everyone wishes." He offers this as well, though he knows he's going to get questioned by Sinister sooner or later.

Sinister has posed:
"I imagine though, that it is fickle. It will likely not always show what you want it to, or /who/ you want it to. These things of faerie tales--" murmured, an address that's secure is shared and he nods to Lucifer, jerking his chin to the 'souk of delights' where a collective from several different planes, share their local food and drinks, some of which likely has no description.

His cigarette case is extracted as he does so, two selected though he makes no attempt at all, to offer one to Nick.

"What did you see, Nick?" it's asked calmly and rather quietly as he hands the cloves to Lucifer for a light.

And there's a look that the devil MIGHT just ignore of 'are you going to spill?'

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Well, if one thing is established in terms of preferences, once the exchange between elders has completed, Nick is likely the first one out of the tent. He doesn't wander far. Just stepping to the side to not block the doorway, nor the foot traffic meandering their way through the market. He glances around curiously. Tilting his head as he sees a man of mismatched eyes and a black and white painted face.

There's a pause as the two look to each other.

...

They both start smiling and waving at each other. "Hey!"

"Hey!"

And then painted face guy is tugged away by one of his masked companions as they start going in the opposite direction.

"Bye!"

"Bye!"

Nick really does run into people in the oddest of places. But Nick is smiling at least.

As the doctor turns his attention to Nick with his inquiry, Nick looks back in the direction of the painted man. "Oh he's just a guy who uses the blast chamber from time to time."

Then Nick registers the look. "...Oh you meant the mirror."

Lucifer has posed:
The transaction is finished and the mirror is taken back to be shipped off, likely later that night.

Lucifer waits until they're out of the tent, and likely well outside of earshot. There's the moment Nick has with a familiar face and he smirks. "Small worlds..." He has to say. Then he looks to Nathaniel. "So. How much is the curiosity killing you?" Asking this and he gives pause for an answer before he continues.

"Feathers. But I won't spawn them here, or take any form that is not this one. I do not want anyone here to know precisely who I am. I mean, I'm sure some do regardless but... I won't make a spectacle of it. So. We'll go home. I'll gather a few feathers and bring them back. They'll likely bring a good price for him. More than the Flame ever would - especially if he sells them individually." He offers this as he leads on to food.

Sinister has posed:
"Well, that's part of it..." And a glance again to Nick "...yes, what you saw, not whom. Although I'm curious as to the whom, also." The clove lit, he puffs as he walks, trailing the sweet scent toward the tents.

"Actually, a lot of me is wondering how the eternal flame ended up -here-. It really was spawned East of Eden, where the land of Nod lies, according to theology. But that doesn't explain how it ended up in the night market, when it was supposed to be safe and snug."

A few more paces and he looks at nothing and kind of comes to a complete stop, looking amusedly consternated. "You know, you -really- should take an inventory of the millenia of collections you've got. Because I can just imagine that someone gets a hold of the Meggido flame and then everyone will be asking why you let the apocalypse happen /by accident/."

Phantasm (Drago) has posed:
Nick nods. Walking quietly as he thinks back to it. "...I saw the inside of a cave." He answers, recalling the visual of it, "but where the tent opening should have been was the opening of the cave looking out to green hills. And my reflection in it. When I looked back my reflection was covered in shadow instead. But it was mirroring my movements."

He glances back in the direction of the painted man. "Sort of classmate. We're both more Independent Study."