Owner	Pose
Hellequin	Before leaving his antique store for the rest of the day, Henri de Fontainebleau had mentioned to his dear Heloise where he could be found if needed. Not that he expected anyone to look for him. Lunch time is a quiet one at the New York Public Library, as Henri de Fontainebleau has recently discovered. Even if getting a user's card had been a breeze, the Frenchman had to insist on using a hardcopy of the books he wanted to consult and not an electronic version. It had taken some time to finally receive said books, after which Henri had found the most possible quiet place to read in peace. Yes, he required a lot of concentration to read, for the simple reason that he hated reading. When your main training consists in hunting wild animals and chopping off heads, reading does not come quite naturally. Nonetheless, it is with intent that Henri sits in a small corner, placing the books on a side table.
Nick	As Henri goes on a quest to research something. Nick is here on a slightly lighter mission. While Henri's exposure to reading was purely for functional purposes, Nick was initially exposed to it for entertainment purposes. A library card can go a long way when being raised on limited funds. It is with this purpose that Nick finds himself in the library. The book in Nick's hand is not a heavy tome, but it does have a bit of age to the cover. Considering the design of the dust cover, there's a good possibility that this book will likely be cycled out and replaced with a newest reprint once one is available. Not quite wishing to head back home just yet, Nick is currently questing for a quiet spot of his own.
Hellequin	From his vintage position in a far corner, Henri naturally glanced around to assess the surroundings. Old habits die hard, especially with him. This is when he noticed Nick Drago strolling towards in his direction. There is no smile or frown on the Frenchman face as he notes the musician coming his way. Maybe this is fate? Destiny? While he had not been avoiding the young man, he did not exactly seek him out either after the last time they met at Club Lux. So, it must have been written that they would meet. So be it. "I do not mind if you share this corner with me," Henri's voice can be heard, just above a whisper because, yes, library! "And I will not mind if you do mind," he adds, maybe so Nick doesn't feel like he has to sit there with him.
Nick	It is fortunate that Henri is glancing around for the prospect of READING had Nick more focused on finding a seat than scoping out the people in the room. Considering past experiences, this is likely a failing on the musician's part. When Henri's voice breaks the silence, Nick spins on his feet quickly to the source of the voice, feet shifting him a step back while his hands lift slightly, apparently ready to throw the book if need be. When Henri comes into view, he pauses, lowering the book. "...Henri?" There's a blink before the thought process reboots. Table. Offering to share said table. "...okay." On the bright side, there is no yelling. Nothing got thrown. And soon Henri has a musician taking the seat next to Henri. Typically one might sit across the table from someone but... Library. "Thank you."
Hellequin	With a nod at Nick as the musician takes a seat next to him, Henri pushes his pile of books on the side of the table to make room. Manners. The first book on the pile, he takes in his hand, as if ready to start reading. Just /as if/, because the book is not readily opened. Among the other books on the table, the one on top has its title glaring at the heavens /The Nature of Good and Evil/, by S. Browne. "It must be destiny indeed, that in such a large large city, we would meet here of all the places," Henri comments, a faint hint of humour in his voice, kept low." Yes, definitely a coincidence.
Nick	Nick sets his book down in front of him. Hands folding on top. It is not particularly thick. The book size seemingly set to a size meant to be taken anywhere but the hint of thread peeking from the spine indicates that maybe this book is well past the days of park reading. The title peeking from the red colored dust cover does not advertise some intricate analysis of concepts. It is simply fiction. The Scarlet Pimpernel "...I do have a knack for ending up in places that I'm apparently supposed to be at." He admits, glancing to the pile of books, "...It's part of how I found out about family I didn't know I had." There's a slight smile but it's soon quashed as he looks to the book title. "Research?"
Hellequin	"What you describe, to me is called predestination," Henri says, using a religious concept that is probably unknown nowadays. "Some call it fate. Either way, I will spare you my view on the mysterious ways." Indeed, it would be surprising that Nick was expecting a history lesson on obsolete religious concepts. Glancing at the book on top of the pile, Henri nods and explains, "Oui, I am trying to educate myself. I had a very interesting conversation with Willow who, I must say, really listened to me. And I did her. She mentioned something about people and sins, how being aware of committing a sin makes it a sin, vice versa, and other things." He pauses, then adds, as an after thought, "Of course, I am not totally deprived of mind, and I can also think and reflect. Times they are a changing, they sing. Very well, maybe I must change as well, especially when it places me in situations where people look down at me like an ignorant, archaic vieux bougre."
Nick	"Yeah. destiny." Nick gives a slight nod, "...Although I would like to think we still have SOME say in what we do. Which makes it upsetting when coming across those who try and force their will on other people. Trying to control their fate..." Well it appears Nick is familiar with the word after all. Nick looks back over to Henri as he explains what he's doing. The mention of Willow causes for him to tilt his head curiously. To the general concept of sin, Nick nods. "That's a fair concept." He agrees, "But, there's another thing to factor in. What is going on for the person at the time the perceived sin is being committed. What is the intent? Which is worse? The one who steals or the one who is threatening to harm his family if he does not? One is acting on the behalf of others. The other is acting on behalf of themselves."
Hellequin	"We could talk for hours, years, about destiny, Nick. To each to ponder about their own destiny. Myself? Just a humble, uneducated hunter thrown into something I did not ask for and have no control over. Contrary to some others, who can decide of their fate by yelling, fighting, even rebelling, there is nothing I can do about my own situation." Henri pauses, looking at the heavens for a moment before he continues, "All I can do, is to remind myself of my duty and sometimes, on how unfair it was to place me in this role. I could even start complaining - and I think I would have cause to - about how unfairly I was and still am unfairly treated, but this is not me. I have better things to do than throw tantrums at what happened to me in the past." That said, always in a low and calm voice, Henri reaches for his topcoat pocket, pulling out a small book, about the size of the one Nick had borrowed from the library. "There," Henri says, handing the book to Nick. The Lucifer Effect, by Zimbardo. "I read it. It almost describes exactly what you just asked. Take it, read it. Fascinating. The experiment in the jail with the students is eye opening. Then feel free to pass it to Ol' Nick, but I would guess he already read it."
Nick	Nick glances down to the book, tilting his head to the mention of Ol' Nick. There needs to be a discussion about nicknames. His name is Nick. St. Nick also sometimes gets referred to as Ol' St. Nick... Conversations could get very confusing without the context of the rest of the statement to figure out what was meant. "He probably has." Nick agrees, "Likely to find out what he's being blamed for now. He even skims through the bible from time to time." The book is taken regardless, and after briefly confirming that it wasn't a library book, looks back to Henri "Do you have no control over your form once you become the other you? What if one night you just... didn't hunt?"
Hellequin	That is a good question that Nick asked. What if? But this one doesn't take long to answer, for most probably the Hellequin asked himself many times over the centuries. "No control. Same old every day and night. I guess, if I did not turn and hunt, then I might be dead for good. Then? I have no idea." Now might not be a moment or place to discuss afterlife beliefs. But something Nick mentions seems to make Henri frown slightly, "The Bible now, really? Is it not so full of bad-mouthing and wrong representations of him," the voice trails off, then adds, "But again, must I ask myself, is he really the Diable? Oui, I have seen the wings indeed. I have also seen magicians and artificers over the centuries who could do incredible tricks. What I have seen is totally different than the images we had of the devil in my time, in the Bible and paintings. Although, the vanity is a sure give-away. In the end, it makes absolutely no difference to me, that he is or not the Malin. As I mentioned, my duty is not to vanquish the Demon, but those who use him as an excuse to harm or kill others. And I expect to do it forever." Then, with a rare smile, Henri wonders, "But what about you? Educating yourself on something?" he asks, pointing at the book that Nick brought with him.
Nick	Nick pauses to the question about the bible. "I don't know the exact reason why he does what he does. But I suppose it would be the same reason you would assume he read this book." A finger taps the very book Henri loaned Nick. "You do have to factor in that anything that could be considered historical documentation was recorded down by men. Men who had their own motivations. Their own interpretations. Events and dates could have occurred. But when you control the narrative you can put it into any tone you want." Nick glances down, sliding Henri's book off of the other one to rotate it around for Henri to see the cover. Eyes peeking through a gloved hand, a ring with what looks to contain the seal of a flower on it. Fancy script, while worn reveals the title to be 'The Scarlet Pimpernel'. "...This might be a good example in a way. This is an example of historical fiction written in the early 1900s. It is credited as the first modern-day superhero story created. Secret identities. Daring rescues, sword fights. It is a very good read. But it is also fiction." He flips the book over to reveal the back of the dustjacket which depicts a guillotine. French flags. "But it's set during an actual historical event. And being that the author is partly British. You can guess how she portrays certain French characters in the backdrop of the Revolution."
Hellequin	By the look on his face, it seems obvious that Henri did not read The Scarlet Pimpernel. There is even almost a grin on Henri's face at the mention of a British author trying to depict events and people from the French Revolution era. "It was such a bloodbath," Henri finally sighs, "Oui, I can imagine an author using fictional characters to defame a whole nation. But you are not really selling me the idea of reading it." With a pure grin on his face, amused, Henri adds jokingly, "Then I might have to add bad authors to my hitlist, as they say?" Leaning back against the comfortable chair, he muses, "What I find funny, or should I say, puzzling, is that someone so powerful, so old and all, would even care about what others think of him. Really. After all this time? What is the expression yet, ah oui, get over it? It reminds of young girls wasting hours to make sure they look perfect while nobody cares. Is it not a tad childish? Complaining is rarely enticing."
Nick	"Well, I wouldn't say she's a bad author." Nick replies, "This book's purpose is to entertain. She set out to write an entertaining story. And it is. I've read it a few times already. I... just wouldn't want someone to entrust the entirety of their understanding of the French Revolution to it." Nick flips the book back over on its side, "If it's any consolation, The main heroic character married a Frenchwoman. And she's likely the smartest woman in the book." Henri's book is set back on top of the fiction book. As Henri leans back, Nick slides away from the books to do the same, allowing for the volume of their voices to remain low. As for the wonderment to Lucifer's caring about others thoughts. He sets his hands upon his lap as he tilts his head up in thought. "Hmm." "Weren't you just a few moments ago bothered by the idea of people thinking you to be an ignorant, archaic, ..." Nick pauses, "Whatever the other words you said. And you're.... how old? Time doesn't make fresh words sting any less. And you delivered the freshest ones."
Hellequin	The musician might - maybe - have a point. By the look on the Frenchman's face, it did not bother him to be served his own argument. Because, maybe it was not a point. "You see, Nick," Henri starts, "What I mentioned about myself - that you so kindly pointed out - I do not consider false, ergo, is not a complaint. I am not pretending to know much nor to be a genius, which is why the comparison - if any - does not seem to fit. I do not believe that I made a scene of any kind about being ill-reported as Herne, a demon or even as Satan for centuries. I am who I am, and people will always think what they want. I only care to improve for those closest to me." Now leaning back on the chair, the table in front becomes very tempting, and resting his feet on it would feel perfect. Although, it is doubtful that the staff would appreciate medieval manners despite the spotless footwear. With a sighs, realizing that manners, too, must be updated, Henri says, "That is a lot talking about me. What about you? I mean, it must have been a shock to learn all of this about your, hrm, relatives?"
Nick	Nick may have his back against the chair but he doesn't go so far as to push the chair to have any of the feet lift off the floor. Instead he bends his head back slightly to keep conversation with Henri. As Henri argues with his point, there's a slight sigh, but no attempt to argue. And the topic switches to his general reaction. Nick glances to the ceiling as he considers the question. "I was... surprised. But considering the other things I've encountered, I wouldn't say it was shock." He pauses, "...okay maybe a little shocked. I wasn't sure what to say early on. What I could say... There were people out there willing to hurt me for existing even before knowing this." He pauses, "...But it's good to have family who wants me around. So...I am happy for that."
Hellequin	By Nick's general initial reaction to what Henri just explained, the Frenchman can observe that his companion clearly refrains to argue with him. Shaking his head slightly momentarily, Henri then shrugs, in a silent gesture signaling that he too, will drop the matter. At some point, one must admit that there is a mutual miscomprehension and that no further attempts at explaining will lead to any good. "Would you care to elaborate on who and why these people wish you ill?" Henri questions, "And surely now, you have the outmost perfect protection team on your side." He might not be an encyclopedia himself, but Henri knows that the Devil teaming with Sinister makes a formidable protection. "It must feel good, in a way, " he then adds, without a single hint of envy, mind you, "I would pray for the soul who would try to hurt you."
Nick	Nick is quiet, frowning. Head tilting forward, he brings a hand up to run through his hair. "I haven't figured out a way to explain it without getting too wordy. But-" Nick pauses, furrowing his brow, "...There's a terrorist group that has a lot of branches to it. One of them had gotten people into one of the law enforcement bureaus and more or less took over a project belonging to another bureau. One my father was tied to. From what we can tell, he wanted to leave. But they didn't want him to so they tried removing the reason why he wanted to leave. Mom died protecting me." Nick's jaw clenches as he looks across the room. Lips part, close, before he shakes his heead. "But it's been quiet for awhile." He adds, "I think those that knew of me were either arrested or killed. Although...there are moments where I forget."
Hellequin	Listening attentively at the musician's answer, Henri nods here and there. No matter when, man is a wolf to man. "Sorry for your mother, Nick." Even if Nick didn't address the question of close protection - was it on purpose? - Henri doesn't insist on that topic and instead comments, "Then you should not be as skittish as you seemed to be when you heard me call your name a moment ago. So maybe you are not so sure that they are done with you. That, or you do not like the sound of my voice." Was that humour? After a moment, the Frenchman offers, "If you need, hrm, an intervention to stop them, please let me know. With good witches and no-sinners anymore nowadays, I feel free to expand my field of intervention." And nothing else is said about this for now.
Nick	"I shouldn't." Nick agrees. "But...I am human." "...well mostly. Even if others tell you that things have been handled, there will be that concern. But-" He frowns, "For your offer. While it's appreciated, If it does happen that they are back, I probably will not tell you. These people, when they set their eyes on someone, they watch everyone around them... Who they spend the most time around...their family. And they're not above removing those who would notice your absence from the equation." "You guys have enough on your plate as is. The last thing I want is for my troubles to be piled on top of them. Or for Heloise to get killed because they thought you'd make for a great asset to their cause."
Hellequin	Although he has been a living picture of calm up to now, the mention of a possible threat to his paramour visibly irks Henri. But then, Nick precisely mentioned that this would not happen, since the dangerous information would not be communicated for the exact reason of keeping her safe. "Je jure au bon Dieu," Henri hisses, before exhaling, "I swear to God, if anything happened to her because of me." And yes, the sentence ends there. No description of what could happen is provided, it is up to everyone's imagination. After a pause where Henri was most likely envisioning such an event, he slowly returns to his calm demeanour. At least, outwardly. "Very well, I appreciate your consideration of possible co-lateral damages, as they call them. An offer being an offer, it will stand, up to me to consider possible implications if the occasion arises."
Nick	Nick nods knowingly to Henri's comment. "The offer to help is still appreciated." Nick replies, "... If it's a concern. I have some friends who are more focused and trained in dealing with that particular problem. So, if that group does start raising problems again. I can let them know. I won't be alone on it." He gives a small smile, " And as you pointed out.. I do have some advantages I didn't have last time around." He pauses. Sure he could probably garner the answer from the conversation so far, there's something about directly asking "So...The conversation so far. Does this mean you're alright with the whole family situation? I wasn't sure when you left the club."
Hellequin	Slowly nodding at Nick's statement about his own safety - the best there is in town, really - Henri then slightly frowns which, in this occasion, does not denote anger or the like, but rather some introspection. This specific question - does it bother Henri that Nick has such a family tree - is not quite the one that really bothered him after his visit to Club Lux. "I never met anyone who chose in which family they would be born into," comes the Frenchman's conclusion, "There is also the mysterious ways to consider," which, in Hellequin's world, refers to Godly predestination which should never be questioned. So it seems from this, that indeed, Henri does not hold anything against Nick. "I left the Club because it was almost sunset," Henri adds, looking at the sun going down in the horizon, "And because, considering what was revealed to me then, I had some thinking to do. It might sound /normal/ and easy to some, to meet the Devil and have their own beliefs shattered. It may sound easy to some to hold a conversation in such circumstances. But it was not for me, not that anyone seemed to care about these details. Like I mentioned then, there is no compassion or understanding to be had with the Devil. That is why I left and do not intend to return, especially since I have been clearly banned to do so." He grins at that, "Not that I could not if I choose to."
Nick	To the confirmation. Nick's smile strengthens a bit. "I'll take that as a yes then." Nick turns his head to look in the direction Henri is, noting the change in light. A nod is given to the mention of the sunlight issue "Like now." He comments. "Sorry, I seem to have distracted you from your research time. Do you need me to drop off the books you checked out?"
Hellequin	Henri stands, taking the books and handing them to Nick, trusting him to take care of them. "Thank you, yes. Indeed, it is time for me to go, hrm, one way or another." As he steps away, he turns around to add, "I did not read a single page today," he smiles, a lopsided smile, "But I believe I learned more than these books could have taught me." And on that, the tall figure of the Frenchman walks away as he heads back home.