—Wolverine[source]Just saying. In the Crooked Market, there's always a cost. Just a matter of time until we figure out what's owed.
The Crooked Market is one of the provinces of the Foul Courts in Otherworld, known for its chaotic atmosphere where nearly anything can be obtained for the right price.[2]
History
Origins[]
The Crooked Market is a chaotic port city located in Otherworld, the nexus of all realities. The market became a popular destination for those seeking rare or forbidden goods from foreign realities, as well as for engaging in illicit inter-reality trade. It was known for offering nearly anything to those who could pay the right price.[2]
Initially a small operation run by the reality refugee Mad Jim Jaspers, the market grew rapidly as others fleeing from incursion events sought refuge there. Over time, the market developed into a sprawling labyrinth of streets, markets, pubs, and alleys, attracting traders and travelers from across the Multiverse. Despite its outward prosperity, the Crooked Market operated in a complex web of wealth and trade, with various currencies flowing through its streets, fueling economies centered around rare and unique goods.[2]
Though lawless and dangerous, the market had its own set of rules. Travelers were often advised to hire local guides to navigate the maze-like streets, as these guides were skilled bargainers who typically struck deals that benefited them more than their clients. While so-called constables were generally corrupt or violent, the true danger often came from the silent, unpredictable figures who operated out of pure madness rather than greed.[2]
Notable Events[]
- The Krakoa-Arakko Tournament: At the Crooked Market, Mad Jim Jaspers was seen preparing food for the dinner party Saturnyne had arranged for the combatants.[3] Wolverine and Storm briefly visited the Crooked Market, unknowingly consuming Blightswill, a substance that neutralized mutant powers.[4] Captain Avalon competed in a race against Redroot, with Saturnyne manipulating the outcome to ensure Redroot's victory.[5] After the tournament, Saturnyne sent Vescora to Blightspoke to mine hidden riches, which further involved Jaspers in the market's dealings.[6]
- Doctor Doom’s Dealings: Excalibur, escorting Doctor Doom to the Valley of Wailing Mists in search of Castle Le Fay, found that the castle had been transported to the Crooked Market. Jaspers offered to trade the castle to Doom in exchange for future assistance from Latveria, but Captain Britain forbade the use of Krakoan gateways. Amid the negotiation, a Fury attacked Jaspers' office, and Doom received a box containing the castle before departing. Excalibur was later attacked by more Furies.[7]
- Gambit's Interaction with the Locals: During Excalibur's time in the Crooked Market, Gambit interacted with the locals and became involved in unauthorized trades. Mad Jim Jaspers warned Gambit against continuing these transactions, giving him a final warning.[8]
- Merlyn’s War on Avalon: When Merlyn waged war on Avalon, Gambit led a mutant team to the Crooked Market. They found several mutants hiding in an underground tavern, and Gambit provided them with supplies. The locals expressed fear of Blightswill. Furies soon arrived, attacking the market and imprisoning Mad Jim Jaspers. Gambit attempted to rescue Jaspers by throwing a kinetically-charged playing card at Merlyn, but the explosion killed him. Jaspers later freed himself and dealt with the Furies who had been planning to kill him.[9]
- Sunfire’s Search for Redroot: In an effort to recover Redroot, Sunfire sought out Mad Jim Jaspers in the Crooked Market. After an altercation with a local goblin, Jaspers warned Sunfire that Redroot was no longer under his care. Jaspers gave Sunfire a splinter to guide him to Redroot’s location, causing Sunfire pain as punishment for trespassing in the market.[10]
Points of Interest
Residents
See Also
- 13 appearance(s) of Crooked Market
- 1 minor appearance(s) of Crooked Market
- 5 mention(s) of Crooked Market
- 4 image(s) of Crooked Market
- 2 article(s) related to Crooked Market