[ Well, it's hardly every day that one has to walk face-first into the lion's den. John stands out like a sore thumb, as it were. He's hardly fitting the dress code but bygones. It'd be a cold day indeed was the magician to pay something like that anything more attention than a passing thought.

He lounges back on the plush sofa, stretching his free arm out with a sigh. ]

In the neighborhood right. Is that why you smell like coach on the cheapest airline available. Well, that and fear. [ Another swallow and he finishes his glass, gesturing at John to offer over his own so he can refill both. ] I'm almost jealous that it's got nothing to do with me.

[ Bravado isn't something he's familiar with. Most people manage it until they get to Lucifer and then it all crumbles. Bits shrivel up, as it were. He enjoys John's cockiness though. The swagger. The way he stares down the Heavens themselves as if they are nothing more than a nuisance in his way. Absolutely thrilling. ] That old yawnfest, yes. It's just about as old a story as the end times are nigh. Same old song.

[ Cue an indelicate snort. ] Someone I know? Haven't you heard I'm retired? But do go on. I'm curious what's got your knickers in a twist, John. Go ahead, regale me.