[Scene] Brotherly Bonding! ...Maybe?
[[Backdated to the end of May]]
Klavier: May is almost over. Klavier knows what a difficult month it is for his brother, and though they normally let the days go by without comment, this year he feels it's important to make the attempt--they couldn't avoid it forever. He makes sure Kristoph is home before driving his bike over to his place. A deep breath helps to steel his nerves as he rings the bell.
Kristoph: *Kristoph is in his office, finishing up a few emails to clients, when he hears the bell. By the time he reaches the door Vongole is already there, sniffing curiously. He urges her gently back and opens the door. Seeing Klavier standing there is a surprise--he can't remember the last time his brother just came by.* Klavier. Is something the matter?
Klavier: *His smile is easy as he shakes his head.* Nothing is wrong. I just thought that I hadn't seen you in a while. *He crouches down, offering his hand to Vongole for a sniff, hoping she might remember him.*
Kristoph: *Vongole's tail wags as she sniffs him. She doesn't react to him with excitement, but she does give his fingers a happy lick. Kristoph smiles thinly and steps aside so his brother can enter.* Well, come in. Can I fix you something to drink?"
Klavier: *Rising and smirking, he follows him inside.* I would ask if you had something fruit related, but I'm not sure I'm that lucky. *His hands slip into his pockets as he glances around, just to see if there is anything different since the last time he was there.*
Kristoph: I have lemonade. Will that do? *Kristoph leads them into the kitchen and pulls out a pair of glasses. When Vongole follows them he pauses to spoil her with a treat from a jar next to the bread pantry.*
Klavier: *Klavier leans against the counter as he waits.* That would be great, thank you. *He watches as his elder brother pours their drinks.* I wanted to see how you were doing.
Kristoph: How I'm doing? *Kristoph smiles thoughtfully--almost suspiciously--as he hands Klavier his glass.* Why, I'm doing very well. Business is good, if not busier than usual. But I'm enjoying the fast pace.
Klavier: *That isn't what he means, but it's never an easy thing, speaking with Kristoph. Klavier takes a drink before continuing.* You've kept yourself busy this month?
Kristoph: Oh yes, very much so. But now that Mr. Justice has his license I'm sure things will ease up a bit. *He takes a sip of his drink more for politeness' sake and sits down at the kitchen table, motioning for Klavier to join him.* I'll introduce you one of these days.
Klavier: I should hope so--I've heard enough about him. *He joins his brother, wondering if there is any point to stalling. Hopefully, if he gets it out quickly enough, they can move on to better topics.* Last week was the anniversary, right?
Kristoph: *Kristoph stares back at him for a beat without catching on, but then his eyes become unfocused. He had forgotten. It's almost unfathomable to him, but until now he hasn't spared a thought for the dark day in May that had been such an ordeal in years past. His face is blank and vaguely confused as he watches his brother across the table.* Oh. Yes, it was.
Klavier: *He straightens a little, disturbed by the expression on the other's face.* You forgot? *That doesn't make sense to him, as he always knew his brother to be unpleasant this time of year. Perhaps it hadn't been the best idea to come here, bringing it up....*
Kristoph: *Kristoph glances away, and when he sees Vongole watching him--tail wagging, hoping for another treat--he abruptly smiles.* I did. I suppose I was just so busy, it slipped my mind. *He takes a long sip of his lemonade.* Oops.
Klavier: That's not like you, but I suppose I'm glad. *Klavier sits back, lifting his glass again and starting to relax a little.* You always get so stiff around this time of year. I'm glad to hear you're getting past it.
Kristoph: Getting past it... *Kristoph relaxes as well, though there's a cold edge to his curled lips.* I wonder. He must be rolling in his grave by now, hm? To see my success...and my back, turned to him.
Klavier: *Klavier snorts.* Let him. *He can't help it--he never understood Kristoph's determination to protect their father.* Rest in peace for good.
Kristoph: *Despite speaking so dismissively of him a moment ago, Kristoph's expression hardens when Klavier does the same.* If he rests now, it is not in peace. *He takes his glasses off and cleans them on his shirt, though they're not dirty.* In any case, thank you for coming this far to check up on me. But I'm quite all right.
Klavier: *Seems he isn't over it just yet, he thinks. Klavier watches him around his glass.* We're brothers. I know you would do the same for me.
Kristoph: Of course. *Kristoph's answer is almost too quick to be considered sincere. He replaces his glasses.* You take on a lot yourself, after all. How are you doing?
Klavier: Ah, busy as usual. *The offered change of subjects is welcome.* Some small cases, though things have been slower with the band taking a break. I've been working on a few newer songs. *He wonders briefly if Kristoph would care to hear more on those, but then decides no.* And Notes has kept me busy. You'll have to come meet her sometime.
Kristoph: Notes...? Oh yes, the kitten. *He glances to Vongole briefly as if sharing a joke with her.* I did worry if you would be able to properly take care of her with your dual careers. How are you getting along?
Klavier: Very well. She's a spitfire. *He drinks more of his lemonade, standing to refill the glass.* We had a little argument when I moved the litter box to a better location, but I think she'll forgive me in a year or two. She got along very well with Pess.
Kristoph: Pess? *Kristoph's brow furrows as he tries to remember.*
Klavier: Miles Edgeworth's dog. *He returns to the table.* She could use a few more friends to play with--I'm sure I bore her to tears.
Kristoph: I'm not sure of Vongole's temperament towards cats--I don't think I've introduced her to any. But you can bring her over some time, if you want.
Klavier: I think I will. *It's rare for Kristoph to make an invitation, and Klavier intends to take him up on it.* I could even bring dinner sometime, if you like.
Kristoph: All right. If we can both find time in our schedules. *Kristoph is not nearly as enthusiastic about the idea, but he hides it relatively well.* The summer is an especially busy time for both of us.
Klavier: Very true. *He slows down his drinking, knowing his brother will most likely kick him out once he's done. He drops his chin into his hand with a faint smile.* But you enjoy being busy, right?
Kristoph: Of course. It means business is doing well. *He glances off thoughtfully, and when he speaks again his inflection makes it sound like a quote.* There's never a good excuse for sitting idle.
Klavier: *chuckling* Oh, I don't know about that. *Klavier tugs at his bangs.* I'm sure there are at least one or two good excuses.
Kristoph: *Kristoph cocks an eye at him.* You mean, when you're with your many adoring fans?
Klavier: Hardly--that's probably the second most important time not to be idle. Fans can be just as ruthless as your enemies. *He folds his fingers together on the table.* The only good time to be idle is when you're alone.
Kristoph: *Kristoph's eyes narrow at his choice of words.* Do you have "enemies," Klavier?
Klavier: None that I would call such. *He waves a hand idly before returning it to the table.* But I'm sure there are a few that would like to claim that position. You haven't heard anything, have you? Being on the other side of the bench and all.
Kristoph: Only a few complaints from other defense attorneys. Sore losers. It's not easy on someone's pride to lose to someone like you.
Klavier: *He laughs at that, pleased by the news.* Is that so? Well, I guess that means I'm doing my job well. Though I hope that doesn't mean you see me in the same light?
Kristoph: Of course not. *Kristoph smirks, but again there's a hint of coldness behind the expression.* I haven't lost to you.
Klavier: Yet. *Klavier smirks, but he takes note of the cool look to his brother.* I think you may be avoiding me a little, hm?
Kristoph: I believe we've been over this before. *Kristoph swirls the remaining lemonade in his glass but looks uninterested in drinking it.* Should the opportunity arise, I will happily take it.
Klavier: You mean, when you're sure you can win. I'd imagine it would be quite embarrassing to lose to your little brother. I'll just have to make sure it's a fierce battle, so no one can say I didn't stand a chance.
Kristoph: I don't take any case if I'm not confident that I will win. *He stands and carries his glass to sink, dumping out what is left.* What would be the point?
Klavier: *His eyebrows perk.* The point would be following the law. *Klavier tilts his head curiously.* Does that mean you'd never take an appointed case?
Kristoph: It's been a long time since I was asked, to be honest. Of course I would follow the law if appointed, but otherwise I have every right to be selective of my clients. *He sets his glass in the dishwasher.* If a case was brought to you to prosecute that you were unsatisfied with, would you go to court regardless?
Klavier: I suppose it would depend. *He sits back in his chair.* When a prosecutor is certain the person being charged is innocent, it's their job to find the guilty party. If I had to take the case, I would make sure the truth comes out. If f I could pass it off, I would, but then it would only be right to pursue the truth.
Kristoph: Then what happens if you're asked to prosecute a defendant you feel is innocent, against me? *He returns to the table but doesn't sit down.* Will you pass it on then?
Klavier: *Klavier mimes a shot to the chest.* Ouch, that's too tough! Go against my morals, or take the chance to finally face my brother in court. I think I'd have to wait until that time comes and play it by ear.
Kristoph: *He smiles.* Then we wait and see. *He watches his brother, expecting that their business should be concluded now.*
Klavier: *He knows that look and gives a dramatic sigh, hanging his head.* I suppose that's my silent cue? You always get that look when you're sick and tired of me.
Kristoph: We've both admitted to being very busy. *He tilts his head.* Unless there was something else in particular you came here for...?
Klavier: Not really. I just wanted to make sure that you were all right, given the time of the year. *He pushes to his feet, giving his hair a shake.* Normally you're a lot less pleasant to be around during May.
Kristoph: Yes...I know. *Kristoph lowers his eyes, and for just a moment he looks sincere.* I appreciate the concern.
Klavier: *He's a little surprised by the expression, and with a softer smile he steps closer to clap his shoulder.* You're my brother. *Feeling that simple statement is enough, he gives him another little squeeze before turning towards the door.* I'll call when I next have a free evening, to see about dinner.
Kristoph: All right. *He follows Klavier to the door--as does Vongole.* But if we're eating in I reserve the right to veto your choice of food.
Klavier: Reservation noted. *Chuckling, he pauses at the door, taking a moment to offer Vongole a scratch behind her ears.* I'll be in touch soon.
Kristoph: *Smirking* Give my regards to your fellow prosecutors.
Klavier: Of course. *Opening the door, Klavier offers a last little wave before slipping out.* Auf wiedersehen.
Kristoph: Until next time. *Kristoph waits until he's almost near his bike before closing the door.*
Klavier: May is almost over. Klavier knows what a difficult month it is for his brother, and though they normally let the days go by without comment, this year he feels it's important to make the attempt--they couldn't avoid it forever. He makes sure Kristoph is home before driving his bike over to his place. A deep breath helps to steel his nerves as he rings the bell.
Kristoph: *Kristoph is in his office, finishing up a few emails to clients, when he hears the bell. By the time he reaches the door Vongole is already there, sniffing curiously. He urges her gently back and opens the door. Seeing Klavier standing there is a surprise--he can't remember the last time his brother just came by.* Klavier. Is something the matter?
Klavier: *His smile is easy as he shakes his head.* Nothing is wrong. I just thought that I hadn't seen you in a while. *He crouches down, offering his hand to Vongole for a sniff, hoping she might remember him.*
Kristoph: *Vongole's tail wags as she sniffs him. She doesn't react to him with excitement, but she does give his fingers a happy lick. Kristoph smiles thinly and steps aside so his brother can enter.* Well, come in. Can I fix you something to drink?"
Klavier: *Rising and smirking, he follows him inside.* I would ask if you had something fruit related, but I'm not sure I'm that lucky. *His hands slip into his pockets as he glances around, just to see if there is anything different since the last time he was there.*
Kristoph: I have lemonade. Will that do? *Kristoph leads them into the kitchen and pulls out a pair of glasses. When Vongole follows them he pauses to spoil her with a treat from a jar next to the bread pantry.*
Klavier: *Klavier leans against the counter as he waits.* That would be great, thank you. *He watches as his elder brother pours their drinks.* I wanted to see how you were doing.
Kristoph: How I'm doing? *Kristoph smiles thoughtfully--almost suspiciously--as he hands Klavier his glass.* Why, I'm doing very well. Business is good, if not busier than usual. But I'm enjoying the fast pace.
Klavier: *That isn't what he means, but it's never an easy thing, speaking with Kristoph. Klavier takes a drink before continuing.* You've kept yourself busy this month?
Kristoph: Oh yes, very much so. But now that Mr. Justice has his license I'm sure things will ease up a bit. *He takes a sip of his drink more for politeness' sake and sits down at the kitchen table, motioning for Klavier to join him.* I'll introduce you one of these days.
Klavier: I should hope so--I've heard enough about him. *He joins his brother, wondering if there is any point to stalling. Hopefully, if he gets it out quickly enough, they can move on to better topics.* Last week was the anniversary, right?
Kristoph: *Kristoph stares back at him for a beat without catching on, but then his eyes become unfocused. He had forgotten. It's almost unfathomable to him, but until now he hasn't spared a thought for the dark day in May that had been such an ordeal in years past. His face is blank and vaguely confused as he watches his brother across the table.* Oh. Yes, it was.
Klavier: *He straightens a little, disturbed by the expression on the other's face.* You forgot? *That doesn't make sense to him, as he always knew his brother to be unpleasant this time of year. Perhaps it hadn't been the best idea to come here, bringing it up....*
Kristoph: *Kristoph glances away, and when he sees Vongole watching him--tail wagging, hoping for another treat--he abruptly smiles.* I did. I suppose I was just so busy, it slipped my mind. *He takes a long sip of his lemonade.* Oops.
Klavier: That's not like you, but I suppose I'm glad. *Klavier sits back, lifting his glass again and starting to relax a little.* You always get so stiff around this time of year. I'm glad to hear you're getting past it.
Kristoph: Getting past it... *Kristoph relaxes as well, though there's a cold edge to his curled lips.* I wonder. He must be rolling in his grave by now, hm? To see my success...and my back, turned to him.
Klavier: *Klavier snorts.* Let him. *He can't help it--he never understood Kristoph's determination to protect their father.* Rest in peace for good.
Kristoph: *Despite speaking so dismissively of him a moment ago, Kristoph's expression hardens when Klavier does the same.* If he rests now, it is not in peace. *He takes his glasses off and cleans them on his shirt, though they're not dirty.* In any case, thank you for coming this far to check up on me. But I'm quite all right.
Klavier: *Seems he isn't over it just yet, he thinks. Klavier watches him around his glass.* We're brothers. I know you would do the same for me.
Kristoph: Of course. *Kristoph's answer is almost too quick to be considered sincere. He replaces his glasses.* You take on a lot yourself, after all. How are you doing?
Klavier: Ah, busy as usual. *The offered change of subjects is welcome.* Some small cases, though things have been slower with the band taking a break. I've been working on a few newer songs. *He wonders briefly if Kristoph would care to hear more on those, but then decides no.* And Notes has kept me busy. You'll have to come meet her sometime.
Kristoph: Notes...? Oh yes, the kitten. *He glances to Vongole briefly as if sharing a joke with her.* I did worry if you would be able to properly take care of her with your dual careers. How are you getting along?
Klavier: Very well. She's a spitfire. *He drinks more of his lemonade, standing to refill the glass.* We had a little argument when I moved the litter box to a better location, but I think she'll forgive me in a year or two. She got along very well with Pess.
Kristoph: Pess? *Kristoph's brow furrows as he tries to remember.*
Klavier: Miles Edgeworth's dog. *He returns to the table.* She could use a few more friends to play with--I'm sure I bore her to tears.
Kristoph: I'm not sure of Vongole's temperament towards cats--I don't think I've introduced her to any. But you can bring her over some time, if you want.
Klavier: I think I will. *It's rare for Kristoph to make an invitation, and Klavier intends to take him up on it.* I could even bring dinner sometime, if you like.
Kristoph: All right. If we can both find time in our schedules. *Kristoph is not nearly as enthusiastic about the idea, but he hides it relatively well.* The summer is an especially busy time for both of us.
Klavier: Very true. *He slows down his drinking, knowing his brother will most likely kick him out once he's done. He drops his chin into his hand with a faint smile.* But you enjoy being busy, right?
Kristoph: Of course. It means business is doing well. *He glances off thoughtfully, and when he speaks again his inflection makes it sound like a quote.* There's never a good excuse for sitting idle.
Klavier: *chuckling* Oh, I don't know about that. *Klavier tugs at his bangs.* I'm sure there are at least one or two good excuses.
Kristoph: *Kristoph cocks an eye at him.* You mean, when you're with your many adoring fans?
Klavier: Hardly--that's probably the second most important time not to be idle. Fans can be just as ruthless as your enemies. *He folds his fingers together on the table.* The only good time to be idle is when you're alone.
Kristoph: *Kristoph's eyes narrow at his choice of words.* Do you have "enemies," Klavier?
Klavier: None that I would call such. *He waves a hand idly before returning it to the table.* But I'm sure there are a few that would like to claim that position. You haven't heard anything, have you? Being on the other side of the bench and all.
Kristoph: Only a few complaints from other defense attorneys. Sore losers. It's not easy on someone's pride to lose to someone like you.
Klavier: *He laughs at that, pleased by the news.* Is that so? Well, I guess that means I'm doing my job well. Though I hope that doesn't mean you see me in the same light?
Kristoph: Of course not. *Kristoph smirks, but again there's a hint of coldness behind the expression.* I haven't lost to you.
Klavier: Yet. *Klavier smirks, but he takes note of the cool look to his brother.* I think you may be avoiding me a little, hm?
Kristoph: I believe we've been over this before. *Kristoph swirls the remaining lemonade in his glass but looks uninterested in drinking it.* Should the opportunity arise, I will happily take it.
Klavier: You mean, when you're sure you can win. I'd imagine it would be quite embarrassing to lose to your little brother. I'll just have to make sure it's a fierce battle, so no one can say I didn't stand a chance.
Kristoph: I don't take any case if I'm not confident that I will win. *He stands and carries his glass to sink, dumping out what is left.* What would be the point?
Klavier: *His eyebrows perk.* The point would be following the law. *Klavier tilts his head curiously.* Does that mean you'd never take an appointed case?
Kristoph: It's been a long time since I was asked, to be honest. Of course I would follow the law if appointed, but otherwise I have every right to be selective of my clients. *He sets his glass in the dishwasher.* If a case was brought to you to prosecute that you were unsatisfied with, would you go to court regardless?
Klavier: I suppose it would depend. *He sits back in his chair.* When a prosecutor is certain the person being charged is innocent, it's their job to find the guilty party. If I had to take the case, I would make sure the truth comes out. If f I could pass it off, I would, but then it would only be right to pursue the truth.
Kristoph: Then what happens if you're asked to prosecute a defendant you feel is innocent, against me? *He returns to the table but doesn't sit down.* Will you pass it on then?
Klavier: *Klavier mimes a shot to the chest.* Ouch, that's too tough! Go against my morals, or take the chance to finally face my brother in court. I think I'd have to wait until that time comes and play it by ear.
Kristoph: *He smiles.* Then we wait and see. *He watches his brother, expecting that their business should be concluded now.*
Klavier: *He knows that look and gives a dramatic sigh, hanging his head.* I suppose that's my silent cue? You always get that look when you're sick and tired of me.
Kristoph: We've both admitted to being very busy. *He tilts his head.* Unless there was something else in particular you came here for...?
Klavier: Not really. I just wanted to make sure that you were all right, given the time of the year. *He pushes to his feet, giving his hair a shake.* Normally you're a lot less pleasant to be around during May.
Kristoph: Yes...I know. *Kristoph lowers his eyes, and for just a moment he looks sincere.* I appreciate the concern.
Klavier: *He's a little surprised by the expression, and with a softer smile he steps closer to clap his shoulder.* You're my brother. *Feeling that simple statement is enough, he gives him another little squeeze before turning towards the door.* I'll call when I next have a free evening, to see about dinner.
Kristoph: All right. *He follows Klavier to the door--as does Vongole.* But if we're eating in I reserve the right to veto your choice of food.
Klavier: Reservation noted. *Chuckling, he pauses at the door, taking a moment to offer Vongole a scratch behind her ears.* I'll be in touch soon.
Kristoph: *Smirking* Give my regards to your fellow prosecutors.
Klavier: Of course. *Opening the door, Klavier offers a last little wave before slipping out.* Auf wiedersehen.
Kristoph: Until next time. *Kristoph waits until he's almost near his bike before closing the door.*