[LOG] A friendship, of sorts(?)
Who: Albert and Troy
What: A chance encounter at the DA's office late at night. Albert, of course, tries to steer the ensuing conversation toward politics.
When: Some random night. (This log took us like two weeks.. ~_~)
Where: The DA's office.
Warning(s): Nope.
It's getting late outside, the street lights are casting their yellow glow on the dim sidewalks and over the travelling people. Some of them are going home, some to persue night time hobbies, and some, like Troy, are watching it all from inside a building. He's working late, again, and his office is almost deserted save for one of ADAs and a couple overworked paralegals. Dropping his pen down on his desk he sighs, leaning back in the leather chair. He's glad to be almost done with the current case, closing arguments are tomorrow and then he can file it away in his cabinet and forget about it for a litle while. This one will stay with him for a while, though, the pictures and the testimonies and the face of the mother's of the murdered, white and crying from the benches. He stands suddenly, deciding that coffee is in order if he's going to be here for a while, and makes his way out of his office, past his collegues and down the hall to where the good coffee is hidden outside the mayor's office.
At the same moment, Albert was coming down the same hallway the opposite way. While he ordinarily would likely not have had business at the DA's office, he'd grown bored with work that morning and had decided to leave early to have lunch with the Mayor. He'd then gone home and entertained himself by reading, until the Mayor had called and asked him for a favor, which was why he suddenly found himself at the DA's office. He was, however, too caught up in his task to pay much attention to what was going on around him. He therefore did not look up and see the other in the hallway until he only narrowly avoided a collision by stepping aside just in time..
Walking down the hallway, his head bowed as his mind was lost in thought about the case, he also did not see the other man until they almost collided. His head snaps up as he automatically starts to apologize for the near accident. "Oh, excuse me, I wa-Mr. Silverberg?" He blinks, a little disoriented, his mind ripped suddenly from his deep thoughts.
Albert, too, paused for a second, unable to keep from raising an eyebrow. "...Mr. Seabourne?"
He knew he ought not to be too surprised, since this was, after all, the DA's office, but he had not actually expected to see the man in person, much less at so late an hour. He wondered if the other was dealing with a high-profile case, or something of that sort.
"An unexpected but pleasant surprise," he continued, his face blank as he extended his hand.
Automatically taking the offered hand, he shakes it firmly. "Likewise, Mr Silverberg. It's a surprise to see you here so late." He slides his hands into his pockets, and even though he is dressed in shirtsleeves with a slightly loosened tie, he is still completely self assured and quietly confident.
Albert nodded politely as they shook hands.
He then explained, "Indeed. I am actually here on an errand for the Mayor. He has been worried about the status of a case that concerns him, and as he was busy, he asked me to come here and check up on it. It was a nice opportunity to visit this building. I had not been to the DA's office before." He might have added more to comment on the place, but giving compliments was not part of his nature.
"And you? Has a big case been keeping you up late?" he guessed.
He sighs, the only sign of how tired he is, and nods. "Yes, although thankfully closing arguments are tomorrow so we should have a verdict by the end of the week." He pauses, remembering something the other man just said about another case. "You mentioned being here to check on a case, which one? If it's through this office, I should know about it."
Albert help up a page of neatly handwritten notes. "It has already been taken care of, but I thank you for the gesture." He nodded again.
Changing the subject, a curious glint in his eye, he went on, "So tell me about this case. Do you anticipate a win?"
"You're welcome." He smiles slightly, lips upturning a fraction. He knows that the other man is sharp, and he wonders if he's asking because he's heard about it through the news or is just genuinely interested. He has heard rumors of Mr. Silverberg's interest in politics, and this case is turning out to be quite a political volleyball, bouncing from one side to another as they all vie to get the final and correct word in before the verdict comes out. "We do, yes, although it has been a difficult case."
Albert wore his 'poker face' as he nodded. "Well, may the best party win." If he had any personal interest in the case, he wasn't about to reveal it.
He glanced about himself briefly. He felt a little odd about having a conversation in a hallway like this.
"Is there somewhere we can go to sit and have coffee?" he asked tentatively.
"Yes, let's go to my office." He pauses, "I was actually on my way to get a new cup, but there is a coffee shop right next door if you'd prefer that. Their coffee is fairly good, fresh brewed." If there's one thing that will get him talking, it's coffee. He loves it and is an expert about the coffee places around the office.
Albert smiled to himself. So he'd guessed right. There was a way to get every man talking more. With most it was alcohol, but with some, like apparently Troy, for whom it was coffee. This was convenient, because he had questions that needed to be asked.
"Yes. Let us help ourselves to coffee and then go to your office, if that is all right with you." He directed a questioning gaze at the other man as if to ask which was the quickest way there.
"Excellent." Since Troy seemed to be waiting on him, Albert led the way in the direction he had come. When they reached the main office area, he looked about, then pinpointed the coffee machine and helped himself to some, then waited for Troy to do the same.
Since he could fix coffee in his sleep, it takes him very little time to make a perfect cup in the dark blue mug he was carrying. After checking to make sure that Albert was all set with his beverage, he leads the way back through the quiet hallways towards his office.
Albert quietly followed Troy to his office, taking a seat in one of the chairs opposite Troy's desk once they were inside. He looked about, approving of the furnishing, and then turned his attention to his coffee, taking a few tentative sips as he waited for the other to take a seat as well.
After motioning for Albert to have a seat in one of the simple padded chairs in front of his desk he walks around the crowded desk and sits. He politely clears most of the paperwork out of the way...and also for confidentiality reasons since he has a couple rather high-profile cases. "How is the coffee?" He sips his own, looking at the red-head over the rim of his cup.
"Good," Albert replied tacitly as he shifted slightly in his seat, pausing a moment to take a few more sips before continuing. "If you don't mind my asking... I was going to save this for a later meeting, but I might as well, now that we are both here. What are your political leanings, Mr. Seabourne?"
"Political leanings?" He doesn't pretend to be surprised, he's hear enough rumors to know that Albert has been moving in political circles lately. "I try to stay out of the deeper political battles as much as my position will allow me to. I have found that the best way to serve the law is to keep it seperate from outside influences...including political motivations and pressures." He takes another sip, evenly watching the other man. "Should I ask why you are inquiring?"
Albert's mouth curled slightly at the corners. "I was merely curious. I have been looking for individuals to help me assess what can be done to improve the city. As you are an intelligent and influential figure, I am curious as to your opinion."
"I see." He's quiet for a few moment, considering his choice of words before speaking. "There are always things that are in need of improvement in any administration...what areas did you have in mind for modification?"
"Everything." Albert's eyes lit up. "I am distressed at how... stagnant life has become in this city. I think everything can use improvement, from our government programs and budget allocations to bureaucratic changes to defense, infrastructure, etc. I am open to any ideas as to specific improvements within all of those areas."
The DA smiles slightly as he sips his coffee, thinking that seeing the Silverberg speak about his obvious passion makes him seem less aloof...more human. "I will agree with you that there are changes that need to be made, but what you're talking about is a huge reorganization. Those types of changes will not be easy, no matter how you go about it."
Albert smiled rather smugly. "If it were an easy task, I would not be interested in it." He paused. "So, what are your thoughts?"
He chuckles, a soft and deep sound. "Nothing easy, hm?" Leaning forward, he rests his elbows on his dark wooden desk, thinking about what his political thoughts are and how they would relate to what Albert is speaking of. "There are many things that could, and should, be changed...frankly, what I am most interested in would be legal reform. There are many policies that I believe to be out of date, sentence length, treatment of inmates and councilling offered in correctional facilities to name a few."
Albert nodded, making mental notes as Troy spoke. While he might not necessarily agree, he knew that the DA's support could come in quite handy when the time came. "Would you say you favor harsher punishment, or less harsh? And more benign treatment of inmates or...?"
"It would depend on the situation. I am not a supporter of capital punishment for the most part, but there does need to be stricter sentencing in areas such as abuse and sexual crimes. Councilling and therapy options for criminals also need to be reworked." He shrugs. "I could speak about this for ages, there are many issues that need to be worked through."
Interesting. Albert made more mental notes. "Well, I am not personally very familiar with the legal system, but you do raise what appear to be valid points. I am sure you are aware of my political ambitions, and I hope that we can speak further of this when I begin to draft up actual plans and policies. Can I count on you for this?"
He nods, face neutral. "I would be interested to speak to you more about this, however I cannot promise my help to something that I am not fully informed of. I am sure you understand the importance of being in possession of all the facts before you make a move, Mr. Silverberg?"
"Certainly," Albert responded calmly. "I would not yet presume to ask your full support. At this point, I am merely interested in your opinions on legal and other such issues. You do hold much weight in this city, after all, and whether or not your ideas coincide with mine, you are the more educated and experienced one of us in the legal field."
He nods, accepting that statement and appreciating that it is just an inquiry...although that can sometimes be a loaded conversation in and of itself. "I see." Finishing his coffee, he puts it down with a soft clink. "I try not to get involved with any one political side, preferring to keep to ideals rather than certain people....and while I know that this has made me less than popular with certain factions in the government right now, it is one precedent that I intend to keep. The law cannot afford to be swayed by political manuverings." He looks at Albert, eyes resting on the other man's. "Would this still be something that you would be able to accept if we were to...share the same road, lets say?"
Albert did not flinch even slightly under Troy's gaze, only returning it with an intense stare of his own. "That is acceptable, indeed. I imagine this would be akin to a continuing conversation on issues within the legal system, as well as an opportunity for you to inform me what you, as a member of this system, feel most requires reform, and for me to educate myself more about these problems. I would not presume to enlist your support politically if you have no interest in that realm."
Nodding again, his expression lightens considerably. He doesn't care much for the deep politics, only involving himself as a must for his career and to be able to work well within the system. That doesn't mean he doesn't have ideas for change, though. "Then please stop by whenever you like to discuss these ideas. My door is always open."
Albert, too, nodded, his usual poker face in place. "You have my sincere gratitude for your kindness." He paused briefly. "I have enjoyed our discussion, but the time has come for me to take my leave. I have a meeting early in the morning." He had difficulty suppressing a slight sigh--he was not really looking forward to another tedious morning of endless business talks--before he extended his hand.
Standing, the DA takes the offered hand, shaking it firmly. He sympathizes with the other man...he hates meetings. "Thank you for your time, it has been informative." Politely, he walks Albert to the door. "Please have a safe trip home, Mr. Silverberg."
"Thank you, and I wish you luck with the case." He and Troy shook hands, and then Albert nodded once more before exiting.
What: A chance encounter at the DA's office late at night. Albert, of course, tries to steer the ensuing conversation toward politics.
When: Some random night. (This log took us like two weeks.. ~_~)
Where: The DA's office.
Warning(s): Nope.
It's getting late outside, the street lights are casting their yellow glow on the dim sidewalks and over the travelling people. Some of them are going home, some to persue night time hobbies, and some, like Troy, are watching it all from inside a building. He's working late, again, and his office is almost deserted save for one of ADAs and a couple overworked paralegals. Dropping his pen down on his desk he sighs, leaning back in the leather chair. He's glad to be almost done with the current case, closing arguments are tomorrow and then he can file it away in his cabinet and forget about it for a litle while. This one will stay with him for a while, though, the pictures and the testimonies and the face of the mother's of the murdered, white and crying from the benches. He stands suddenly, deciding that coffee is in order if he's going to be here for a while, and makes his way out of his office, past his collegues and down the hall to where the good coffee is hidden outside the mayor's office.
At the same moment, Albert was coming down the same hallway the opposite way. While he ordinarily would likely not have had business at the DA's office, he'd grown bored with work that morning and had decided to leave early to have lunch with the Mayor. He'd then gone home and entertained himself by reading, until the Mayor had called and asked him for a favor, which was why he suddenly found himself at the DA's office. He was, however, too caught up in his task to pay much attention to what was going on around him. He therefore did not look up and see the other in the hallway until he only narrowly avoided a collision by stepping aside just in time..
Walking down the hallway, his head bowed as his mind was lost in thought about the case, he also did not see the other man until they almost collided. His head snaps up as he automatically starts to apologize for the near accident. "Oh, excuse me, I wa-Mr. Silverberg?" He blinks, a little disoriented, his mind ripped suddenly from his deep thoughts.
Albert, too, paused for a second, unable to keep from raising an eyebrow. "...Mr. Seabourne?"
He knew he ought not to be too surprised, since this was, after all, the DA's office, but he had not actually expected to see the man in person, much less at so late an hour. He wondered if the other was dealing with a high-profile case, or something of that sort.
"An unexpected but pleasant surprise," he continued, his face blank as he extended his hand.
Automatically taking the offered hand, he shakes it firmly. "Likewise, Mr Silverberg. It's a surprise to see you here so late." He slides his hands into his pockets, and even though he is dressed in shirtsleeves with a slightly loosened tie, he is still completely self assured and quietly confident.
Albert nodded politely as they shook hands.
He then explained, "Indeed. I am actually here on an errand for the Mayor. He has been worried about the status of a case that concerns him, and as he was busy, he asked me to come here and check up on it. It was a nice opportunity to visit this building. I had not been to the DA's office before." He might have added more to comment on the place, but giving compliments was not part of his nature.
"And you? Has a big case been keeping you up late?" he guessed.
He sighs, the only sign of how tired he is, and nods. "Yes, although thankfully closing arguments are tomorrow so we should have a verdict by the end of the week." He pauses, remembering something the other man just said about another case. "You mentioned being here to check on a case, which one? If it's through this office, I should know about it."
Albert help up a page of neatly handwritten notes. "It has already been taken care of, but I thank you for the gesture." He nodded again.
Changing the subject, a curious glint in his eye, he went on, "So tell me about this case. Do you anticipate a win?"
"You're welcome." He smiles slightly, lips upturning a fraction. He knows that the other man is sharp, and he wonders if he's asking because he's heard about it through the news or is just genuinely interested. He has heard rumors of Mr. Silverberg's interest in politics, and this case is turning out to be quite a political volleyball, bouncing from one side to another as they all vie to get the final and correct word in before the verdict comes out. "We do, yes, although it has been a difficult case."
Albert wore his 'poker face' as he nodded. "Well, may the best party win." If he had any personal interest in the case, he wasn't about to reveal it.
He glanced about himself briefly. He felt a little odd about having a conversation in a hallway like this.
"Is there somewhere we can go to sit and have coffee?" he asked tentatively.
"Yes, let's go to my office." He pauses, "I was actually on my way to get a new cup, but there is a coffee shop right next door if you'd prefer that. Their coffee is fairly good, fresh brewed." If there's one thing that will get him talking, it's coffee. He loves it and is an expert about the coffee places around the office.
Albert smiled to himself. So he'd guessed right. There was a way to get every man talking more. With most it was alcohol, but with some, like apparently Troy, for whom it was coffee. This was convenient, because he had questions that needed to be asked.
"Yes. Let us help ourselves to coffee and then go to your office, if that is all right with you." He directed a questioning gaze at the other man as if to ask which was the quickest way there.
"Excellent." Since Troy seemed to be waiting on him, Albert led the way in the direction he had come. When they reached the main office area, he looked about, then pinpointed the coffee machine and helped himself to some, then waited for Troy to do the same.
Since he could fix coffee in his sleep, it takes him very little time to make a perfect cup in the dark blue mug he was carrying. After checking to make sure that Albert was all set with his beverage, he leads the way back through the quiet hallways towards his office.
Albert quietly followed Troy to his office, taking a seat in one of the chairs opposite Troy's desk once they were inside. He looked about, approving of the furnishing, and then turned his attention to his coffee, taking a few tentative sips as he waited for the other to take a seat as well.
After motioning for Albert to have a seat in one of the simple padded chairs in front of his desk he walks around the crowded desk and sits. He politely clears most of the paperwork out of the way...and also for confidentiality reasons since he has a couple rather high-profile cases. "How is the coffee?" He sips his own, looking at the red-head over the rim of his cup.
"Good," Albert replied tacitly as he shifted slightly in his seat, pausing a moment to take a few more sips before continuing. "If you don't mind my asking... I was going to save this for a later meeting, but I might as well, now that we are both here. What are your political leanings, Mr. Seabourne?"
"Political leanings?" He doesn't pretend to be surprised, he's hear enough rumors to know that Albert has been moving in political circles lately. "I try to stay out of the deeper political battles as much as my position will allow me to. I have found that the best way to serve the law is to keep it seperate from outside influences...including political motivations and pressures." He takes another sip, evenly watching the other man. "Should I ask why you are inquiring?"
Albert's mouth curled slightly at the corners. "I was merely curious. I have been looking for individuals to help me assess what can be done to improve the city. As you are an intelligent and influential figure, I am curious as to your opinion."
"I see." He's quiet for a few moment, considering his choice of words before speaking. "There are always things that are in need of improvement in any administration...what areas did you have in mind for modification?"
"Everything." Albert's eyes lit up. "I am distressed at how... stagnant life has become in this city. I think everything can use improvement, from our government programs and budget allocations to bureaucratic changes to defense, infrastructure, etc. I am open to any ideas as to specific improvements within all of those areas."
The DA smiles slightly as he sips his coffee, thinking that seeing the Silverberg speak about his obvious passion makes him seem less aloof...more human. "I will agree with you that there are changes that need to be made, but what you're talking about is a huge reorganization. Those types of changes will not be easy, no matter how you go about it."
Albert smiled rather smugly. "If it were an easy task, I would not be interested in it." He paused. "So, what are your thoughts?"
He chuckles, a soft and deep sound. "Nothing easy, hm?" Leaning forward, he rests his elbows on his dark wooden desk, thinking about what his political thoughts are and how they would relate to what Albert is speaking of. "There are many things that could, and should, be changed...frankly, what I am most interested in would be legal reform. There are many policies that I believe to be out of date, sentence length, treatment of inmates and councilling offered in correctional facilities to name a few."
Albert nodded, making mental notes as Troy spoke. While he might not necessarily agree, he knew that the DA's support could come in quite handy when the time came. "Would you say you favor harsher punishment, or less harsh? And more benign treatment of inmates or...?"
"It would depend on the situation. I am not a supporter of capital punishment for the most part, but there does need to be stricter sentencing in areas such as abuse and sexual crimes. Councilling and therapy options for criminals also need to be reworked." He shrugs. "I could speak about this for ages, there are many issues that need to be worked through."
Interesting. Albert made more mental notes. "Well, I am not personally very familiar with the legal system, but you do raise what appear to be valid points. I am sure you are aware of my political ambitions, and I hope that we can speak further of this when I begin to draft up actual plans and policies. Can I count on you for this?"
He nods, face neutral. "I would be interested to speak to you more about this, however I cannot promise my help to something that I am not fully informed of. I am sure you understand the importance of being in possession of all the facts before you make a move, Mr. Silverberg?"
"Certainly," Albert responded calmly. "I would not yet presume to ask your full support. At this point, I am merely interested in your opinions on legal and other such issues. You do hold much weight in this city, after all, and whether or not your ideas coincide with mine, you are the more educated and experienced one of us in the legal field."
He nods, accepting that statement and appreciating that it is just an inquiry...although that can sometimes be a loaded conversation in and of itself. "I see." Finishing his coffee, he puts it down with a soft clink. "I try not to get involved with any one political side, preferring to keep to ideals rather than certain people....and while I know that this has made me less than popular with certain factions in the government right now, it is one precedent that I intend to keep. The law cannot afford to be swayed by political manuverings." He looks at Albert, eyes resting on the other man's. "Would this still be something that you would be able to accept if we were to...share the same road, lets say?"
Albert did not flinch even slightly under Troy's gaze, only returning it with an intense stare of his own. "That is acceptable, indeed. I imagine this would be akin to a continuing conversation on issues within the legal system, as well as an opportunity for you to inform me what you, as a member of this system, feel most requires reform, and for me to educate myself more about these problems. I would not presume to enlist your support politically if you have no interest in that realm."
Nodding again, his expression lightens considerably. He doesn't care much for the deep politics, only involving himself as a must for his career and to be able to work well within the system. That doesn't mean he doesn't have ideas for change, though. "Then please stop by whenever you like to discuss these ideas. My door is always open."
Albert, too, nodded, his usual poker face in place. "You have my sincere gratitude for your kindness." He paused briefly. "I have enjoyed our discussion, but the time has come for me to take my leave. I have a meeting early in the morning." He had difficulty suppressing a slight sigh--he was not really looking forward to another tedious morning of endless business talks--before he extended his hand.
Standing, the DA takes the offered hand, shaking it firmly. He sympathizes with the other man...he hates meetings. "Thank you for your time, it has been informative." Politely, he walks Albert to the door. "Please have a safe trip home, Mr. Silverberg."
"Thank you, and I wish you luck with the case." He and Troy shook hands, and then Albert nodded once more before exiting.