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indie & semi-selective Ace Attorney OC penned by Angèle  ✧crossover and OC friendly✧ (occasional Klavier muse until I make a proper blog)

[grandepretresse]

independent & semi-selective Ace Attorney Original Character with over 12 years of role-play experience

penned by Angèle 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗧𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗸i & verses  𝗹𝗮𝘄𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝘁𝗲 interaction calls

[grandepretresse]

This is what Klavier saw when Apollo had that uneven smile, by the way. @surging-eyes-seeing-au

[brodorokihousuke]

if i had a nickel for every time i joined a large ace attorney tumblr discord server and then joined a rp server that splintered off from it and proceeded to play DD apollo, I would have two nickels. Which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice.

been a while since I've done casual Discord rp, so I'm looking forwards to throwing him around some more.

[grandepretresse]

⋆🎧✮ continued from here ✮🎧⋆

Klavier was definitely not prepared for the sight that greeted him when he opened the door. He barely recognizes Apollo from afar, and despite his exhaustion, Klavier still runs the short distance between the door and Apollo’s bedside. His mind isn’t working with him because instead of pulling a chair like a normal person, Klavier wastes no time falling on his knees so he can be somewhat level with Apollo, his eyes darting between different bandaged spots on his upper body as if he’s mapping Apollo, checking for injuries, as if he were a doctor, a nurse, as if he could do something.

But Klavier couldn’t, the extent of his help was his presence. (Was it even welcome?) Apollo speaks, it’s faint, but Klavier hears him well enough. (Why did he sound surprised?) “Ach, please don’t tire yourself, you must be exhausted.” Even he knew it was the understatement of the century. Someone in Apollo’s state couldn’t just be exhausted. The blood seeping through his bandages, it makes Klavier’s face pale. He looks around for a nurse, but the room is empty save for those two. He can hear the beeping of the monitor tracking Apollo’s vitals, steady. That was a good sign, at least. “Are you in pain?” He asks, and instantly feels stupid for saying it out loud. How could he not be in pain? Still, it was the only thing he thought to ask him, to bridge the gap between them. Maybe he should have reminded Apollo that he was his emergency contact, in case the explosion had somehow messed with his memories, but… he had called his name, hadn’t he?

@surging-eyes-seeing-au

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

It was so hard to tell what was wrong, really. He was injured, obviously, but how? Was it internal? Only external? Even having witnessed the explosion wouldn't add clarity. Apollo certainly wouldn't know, anyways.

Clay wondered to himself, idly, thoughts directed at Apollo. he thought he hated him. Or, generally, disliked his presence. A mixed twinge of emotions was thrown back, nothing in the sense of an exact answer given.

It was so weird. So, so weird. Apollo could only stare, for a few, long seconds. Why in the world was he here? Before anyone else? Surely, Phoenix would be rushing. And Athena had a car, right? There were so many others. So many other possibilities. He... his brain lagged, just trying to process it all.

To the first statement, he continued to stare, eyelids drooping a little. He didn't feel exhausted, admittedly. Everything was just... off. Too nervous to sleep, but too numb to want to move. The faded memory didn't help, nor did the spirit invading his thoughts. The spirit who, due to the weakening of its host, seemed to be much louder and more influential, now...

The question of pain made his focus return to the man, eyes squinting more. What seemed to be an incredibly weak sigh was given, before he started to talk again.

"...I ... everything aches. Feels so heavy.... There's... nothing laying on me, right?"

Of course there wasn't anything on him, Clay retorted. He was just drugged. Apollo responded in turn, thoughts uneven. He just had to make sure. And, to be frank, he trusted Klavier more than Clay at the moment.

To the latter's rather thorough chagrin.

The soft chirping of one of the machines increased in tempo, just barely. A slight fluctuation in his heartbeat. It was... probably nothing.

[grandepretresse]

There were very few moments where Klavier was as focused as now. He was attuned to every sound surrounding them, the beeping of the machine, Apollo’s breathing, the raspy quality of his voice when he spoke, the weakness of his sigh. It’s almost as though Klavier was holding his own breath for fear of missing even one simple detail.

“There’s nothing laying on you, no.” Klavier speaks, and his voice is even softer than when he’d walked in. He looks at the redness of his skin from where it’s peeking out of the bandages, and there’s a brief scary thought that he doesn’t entertain. No point in thinking about how it would have been if Apollo hadn’t made it. He was here, now. Very much alive, despite his state, despite the circumstances which had led him here, to this hospital room. “This heaviness, how or where do you feel it?” He briefly remembers the way nurses had spoken to his father when he was in the hospital. Something about validating one’s feelings and physical symptoms. He hasn’t moved from his kneeling position, but now that he’s heard Apollo speak a few times, he relaxes ever-so-slightly, and clears his throat. All that running had made his throat extremely dry, he could feel the soreness, an unpleasant feeling, but certainly nothing compared to how Apollo must be feeling. “If there’s anything I can do, please ask. That is the reason why I am here, after all.”

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

"Ah... It's... everything feels heavy.", he muttered, before his eyes suddenly sharpened, a brief lucidity filling them. "This is... normal, right? Should I be worried..?"

His heart rate went up, just slightly, once more. The brief panic seemed to subside after a few more seconds, though, the machine's quiet chirps returning to their previous rate. It was, notably, faster than normal. But, as Klavier's own heart rate was likely sky-high at the moment, it was rather hard to notice as much.

After letting them close for a handful of seconds, Apollo reopened his eyes, narrowing them slightly at Klavier. Not out of anger, no, out of genuine confusion.

"...What do you mean, the... reason that you're here?". He paused, for a moment. "Were you... just the closest..?

Did he care that much?

Clearly, he wasn't faking it. Apollo didn't need his bracelet to know that. But, it was unusual- Apollo was much used to the normal Klavier. The Klavier who flaunted himself, even when his nervous tics were as plain as day. The one who never passed up an opportunity to pick on him, taunt him, anything.

This... whatever was before him. It... It almost made him feel bad.

All the while. a biting voice lashed out from within him. How dare he not trust his best friend. His friend, who knew what was best in the situation. Like leaving that girl in the explosion. Why didn't he do that? He would be safe, now, if he listened.

Apollo's expression tensed a little, his heart gently speeding up once more. No, he didn't want to listen to him. An apology was given, of course. Yes, they were friends. Friends in life. But this was different.

So different.

He didn't want to think it, of course, but the thought crossed his mind anyways.

Were they even friends anymore?

[grandepretresse]

Klavier shouldn’t have been laughing, this was no light situation. But the way Apollo’s eyes had sharpened - the way it felt so distinctively Apollo to come to his senses, for a brief instant, even if quite possibly numbed by all the pain-suppressing drugs. He doesn’t muffle the small chuckle, his shoulders relaxing as he looks down at Apollo’s very tired-looking face. Klavier doesn’t even know why he finds it so reassuring, but he does.

The expression of amusement fades instantly at Apollo’s question, however. “Nein?” There’s a hint of confusion. “The emergency contact.” He says. “I was called.” (How was it possible not for him to know?) Emergency contacts weren’t just randomly picked by medical staff in case of emergency. Klavier doubted that he would come at random, if that was even a possibility. No, if Apollo didn’t know, and it was Klavier who was called, it could only be because— He thinks about his brother, Apollo’s former boss. The only logical conclusion, then, would be that they-- The more frantic beeping of the machine pulls him out of his thoughts, and he leans forwards slightly. He frowns, slight panic flashing on his features as he extends a hand which stops short of Apollo’s face. “Herr Justice!” Maybe raising his voice, even if due to worry, was not the brightest idea, in hindsight. “Do you need me to call a nurse?”

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

It didn't seem like Apollo understood what was funny, no doubt for a few reasons. The situation he was in was one of them, of course, but also...it was simply how he felt like reacting. Very Apollo, indeed.

At the least, it was a little comforting. Despite everything, it was still him, his personality and self were still there. Working through the rest of the injuries would be quite the trial, of course, but at least his mind remained undamaged. Mostly so, anyways.

"...Emergency contact..?" He mumbled, eyes losing their focus once more, as his brows knit themselves together. Clearly, he had no idea what the prosecutor was refereeing to, wracking his brain as he tried to think of anything of the sort. Had he set one recently? When was the last time he set one, even?

His eyelids drooped a little for a moment, before struggling to open again. Thinking on it too hard just made him more exhausted.

Even if he didn't understand the reasons behind it all, Apollo gave an uneven smile in eventual response, as well as a quietly muttered "...Thanks.". The effort could be appreciated, at the least.

Clay had gone silent for a moment. For the first time in a day, he had his mind to himself. As much as he didn't want to think about it, he was thankful for the fact.

It didn't last long, though.

A torrent of emotions suddenly slammed into his mind, making his expression falter and strain. It was hard to focus on it, Apollo being rather overwhelmed, but he could make out a few things. Something about being replaced. The only friend he needed. Why didn't he trust him? Like him? He wouldn't leave. He was here forever. Another moment passed, with Apollo pushing back. Trying to smother the outburst within him, as he could feel his heart rapidly pounding in his ears.

He didn't know if Klavier could tell. But he couldn't care

With only the bandages covering him, it was easy to see his muscles suddenly grow tense. Aside from the increase in heart rate, however, there didn't seem to be anything new wrong with him. He hadn't even said anything distressing, at least not on the surface.

There was one thing, actually, only becoming notable after a moment's time. A line of crimson blood, leaking out of his nostrils, cutting across his strained face. While not white, his eyes were certainly unfocused, staring at something that wasn't there.

[grandepretresse]

Apollo’s uneven smile makes Klavier freeze for a moment. This peacefulness, that was new. He was happy his heartbeat wasn’t monitored, because the machine would have likely caught a beat skipping. The smile in response certainly reaches his eyes, and he nods, basking in the moment, the way the setting sunlight filters through the blinds. The steady beeps of the machine, the fact that despite his state, Apollo was truly alive. This was nice.

Until the monitor sped up, and Klavier saw Apollo tense.He hadn’t responded to his question about calling a nurse, but Apollo seemed understandably preoccupied by his own pain. There’s a gasp as Klavier notices the trail of blood running down Apollo’s nose. Klavier wastes no time grabbing a nearby napkin. He doesn’t even think about propriety, acting before thinking wasn’t his usual modus operandi but it was happening now.

Klavier folds the napkin so he can use it to block the nostril from where Apollo’s blood is coming from, and very gently places his hand on Apollo’s chin, tilting his head forward while being mindful of the bandages, and the tilting of his neck. His fingers press at his nostrils, pinching at the bridge in an attempt to stop the epistaxis. He’d dealt with a number of them in his teens, and knew how to prevent them from getting worse.

“Breathe through your mouth.” His tone is soft, but there’s also an authoritative quality to his words which betrays his worry. His hands are too occupied holding Apollo’s head, but he briefly glances at the nurse call button.

[grandepretresse]

🀧 continuing from here [ There was a brief, warm ‘you’re welcome’ to Apollo’s thanks, but the mood soon took a major shift when Apollo’s expression fell, and Tarokki’s blood turned cold as she processed the implications of it in regards to her question. The flat expression on Apollo’s face almost looked scary, and she could feel her earrings shift slightly though Tarokki hadn’t moved her head. She slowly raises her hand to stop the earring from making that very faint yet distressing hissing sound each time it attempted to turn to the other side.]

[ She could feel the indentations in the metal of the card, and she ran her finger over it trying to decipher what it was trying to tell her, but she was taken out of her thoughts by Apollo’s mutter.] “Wait, you’re—“ [ She grabs another napkin from the beverage station and hands it to him. She doesn’t feel like she needs to finish her sentence, Apollo must be feeling the blood running down his nose and over his lips. Tarokki sighs, and despite Apollo telling her not to worry, she finds that she can’t just brush it off. First, however, is a check for his physical wellbeing.] “Alright, you clearly need to sit down, have you eaten anything? When was the last time you’ve rested?” [ Just how many nosebleeds had this man had that he could just brush off one more? This was not looking good. She would continue her line of questioning later.] @surging-eyes-seeing-au

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

Apollo's thoughts seemed to lag a little, the stare he was giving lingering on even as she holds the new napkin out. Of course, he had felt mentally tired before, but... this, it actually felt as if his thoughts were fatigued. So badly, did he want to crumple to the ground, and pass out, but... again. There was too much hinging on this next day. He couldn't let himself rest.

Finally, he glanced down, gingerly taking the new napkin in the same hand that held the old. For another moment, he simply held it, before focusing on the metallic taste in the back of his throat. Right. It was brought to his nose, muffling his next response.

"Last time I've eaten something..." His eyes scrunched up, drifting to the side in thought. "...Yesterday, I think. I... can't rest right now."

He wouldn't be so forthcoming, normally. But, his focus was limited, so the truth was the easiest thing to give... Even if said truth was, admittedly, quite troubling.

After a few seconds passed, his demeanor suddenly changed, back to the one he had started with. Eyes partially focused, his expression solidifying into a serious look. Underneath it all, though, his tiredness was still obvious.

"...This isn't important, I... "

What was he here for, again? Right.

"...I need to know if you've found any new evidence. I don't care what it is, I... just need to look at it."

\\ Awesome art! I did apollo circa my last message as a warmup earlier so I suppose I'll send that aswell..

[grandepretresse]

“Oh, wow, I get the whole powering through deal but honestly, how are you alive at this point?”

[ Tarokki still hadn’t had the time to really check her earring’s indentations, and she could still feel it wanting to turn faintly now, she held it in place. There was a general sense of unease that had passed through her entire body, which made her tone seem more aggravated when she’d spoken to Apollo. Combined with her words it sounded as if she was scolding him, which she would have apologised for, were she not feeling so worried, even more tired all of a sudden, antsy. Worst part was she couldn’t exactly pinpoint what had caused the shift, and Tarokki hated not knowing these things.]

“The evidence, yes. Actually a good idea. I’ll let you review it, but you’re going to sit down at my desk and eat something, or your body will eventually just give in and there’s not much investigating you’ll be able to do in that state.“

[ It sounds like scolding once more, concerned scolding for someone she’s only now met instead of just seeing in passing. Even though they hadn’t properly introduced each other to one another, Apollo worked for law enforcement, which made him a colleague. And Tarokki wouldn’t let a colleague wear himself down if she could help it. She initially reaches to grab his arm, but pauses and retracts her hand at once. She didn’t want to invade his personal space, nor did she want to further bring him pain, if the bandages on his forearm and peeking out of his collar were any indication of how badly he was injured underneath them.]

“I think they have snacks in the beverage station cupboard, though I’m not sure they’re anything qualitative… I have some arguably tastier and healthier ones in my desk drawer, too, savoury or sweet. I can make more tea and bring you a glass of water. With those bandages, you probably need even more hydration for your tissues to properly heal.”

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

The first comment made his expression falter, what looked to be an incredibly weak smile appearing on his face.

"That's... a good question."

It was the story of his life, really. Burning buildings, revolutions, rivers, abandonment, getting hired by a killer, a bombing, head trauma, and now unwilling possession...

He had been through a lot. A lot, that should have killed him. His life did really feel like an anomaly, something that made him question himself sometimes. There wasn't enough focus to think about that now, though. All he could focus on was finding what he needed.

Evidence.

Solid evidence.

Food and a seat, in exchange for looking things over? Obviously, it was a good exchange, if not a bit unbalanced... but all he cared about was what he got. Hell, if one had asked him to put a nail through his hand in exchange for it, he would've probably done it.

"I'll... I'm fine with doing that. You don't need to get me food, but... I'll eat it, I guess. I've been able to do everything for this long, I should be fine..."

Despite the fact that he wasn't even fine to begin with.

He pulled the napkin away from his face after a moment passed, checking the splotches of blood before his focus went to the briefly-extending hand. While his eyes lingered there for a moment, Tarokki's speaking drew his attention upwards soon after. A rather plain reaction was given in response, though there was a little more energy put into it than before. At least it seemed like he was recovering from... whatever happened, earlier.

"Um, well... anything works, really. I'm not picky, and I'm not hungry for anything in particular, right now... And, well, I did get an IV earlier, now that I think about it, so I should be okay for hydration."

The memory of the hospital made him wince a little. There are a lot of warnings we're getting off of you, they had said. Wanted him to stay for more testing and recovery. He denied them, of course.

Speaking on warnings, it really was not clear where the vibes were coming from. But, whatever they had been, they had seemed deadly serious, and incredibly strong. Though, Apollo certainly hadn't been looking the part, to give such a reaction- all he looked was distressed.

It was almost like he was reacting to the vibes, rather than giving them himself.

[grandepretresse]

“You’re the kind of person who likes to push their luck, huh?”

[ A huff. Apollo’s behaviour is eerily familiar to the point it brings unpleasant memories. Tarokki grimaces at the reminder of who he makes her think of, someone she’d rather not dwell thinking about. Stubborn didn’t even start to describe how he was acting right now in regards to his own health, but she doesn’t comment further, and accepts his acquiescence to the food with a small smile as she beckons Apollo towards her desk with a quick gesture of her hand, before making her way there - ten steps away, that is. If she wasn’t so focused on the overall energies surrounding them, as well as his wellbeing - ever the altruist, miss Halia -, Tarokki might have recognised those traits in herself.]

“Do you have any allergies? I have… roasted chickpeas, veggie chips, whole wheat crackers, dark chocolate, and dried fruit.”

[ Rummaging through her desk drawer helps enumerate the various packaged snacks she has in there. She purposely leaves her chair empty for him to sit, standing on the side of her desk as she clicks out of a software which is still mid-render, the computer’s ventilators making an obnoxiously loud whirring sound with how much power the process is consuming. It’s a wonder that she’s able to interact with the various windows on her desktop, and she manages to open the evidence folder. The ones which haven’t been converted into one readable and viewable 3d file have their own folders of pictures from the crime scene.]

“Even with the IV, are you sure you don’t want tea or water?” [ Even moving around the room didn’t lessen the oppressive vibes in the room. When Tarokki looked around, however, it seemed that none of her coworkers who were still working at this hour were affected by them, but Tarokki felt as if she was getting slightly suffocated by the strength of them, even though she couldn’t quite pinpoint the source. Ans Apollo, well… She couldn’t tell if his state was due to the energies in themselves, or his overall physical health and exertion.]

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

"...Always have been." The smile lingered, an exhausted sigh given as well, his voice still slightly muffled by the napkin at his nose. "With my kind of life, that's the only way to go, really..."

It could be worse. It certainly could. That's all he kept telling himself. It was true, probably. Probably. He could be dead! But he wasn't.

Another sigh.

He let himself be led to the desk, his eyes scanning the surroundings before taking a closer look at the cubicle itself. He'd been in here plenty, and always liked noting the details setting each one apart. Reminded him how different everyone was. Made him wonder what kinds of lives everyone was living, outside of the building.

But he didn't have time to be sentimental right now.

While he lingered on his feet for a few, long seconds, Apollo eventually did sit down. He could tell it was being offered, anyways, and didn't want to be impolite... though, he did feel bad. He didn't even know this person's name, and they were doing so much for him.

Well, he did know their name. It was on their desk. It looked... unique. But so did his, so he couldn't say anything.

"No allergies. I... well, I don't know. But I eat everything, really. So I doubt it matters."

The napkin was lowered for a moment, checked before being held back up. Indeed, there had been blood on it. He didn't even know why he checked. At least the nosebleed seemed to be slowing down.

The computer was stared at for a long moment. It looked horrendously outdated, or maybe that was just the frame. It was much more expensive than anything he usually handled, in any case, simply having a light laptop for personal use and a crappy old desktop at work. The rendering, as boring as it was, was watched for a moment, before his attention turned back to Tarokki.

"I mean... if you give me water, I'll drink it, I guess."

It's her decision, that makes him feel better. Feel less bad for suddenly coming in here, nearly losing control of himself, and then asking for police data. He did need to drink after all, he knew that. And if he needed to wait for the computer to load things, he might as well try to fuel himself up while the time passed.

Indeed, the source of Apollo's seeming woes was difficult to pinpoint. But, there was simply something... odd about it all. And the energy in the room, it hadn't been this bad before, had it? Before he wandered his way in? It almost felt as if there was a storm cloud following the man, drenching him and all those around him in strife. Was he aware of it? Maybe. He was aware of something, that was, at least, for sure.

"...Ah." He suddenly mumbled, having been reminded earlier. "Did I... ever introduce myself to you?"

[grandepretresse]

“Does it not exhaust you?”

[ This, she asks in a softer tone, offering him a sympathetic smile as she watches Apollo wipe the blood away from his nose. It didn’t seem to be bleeding as much now. A good sign.]

[ The cubicle is in a corner of the open workspace. While Tarokki values an organized workspace, she has a few knickknacks here and there to add some liveliness to the otherwise bleak and grey furnishings. A dark purple board pinned to the left wall of the cubicle with flower magnets, a to-do list, a picture of what appears to be a younger Tarokki with a boy who shares multiple similar traits to her, pinned by an azalea magnet. A handwrittn note, a to-do list, and several half-erased doodles. The desk is more plain, its only decoration being a dark purple teapot serving as a pen holder, and near the mouse, a closed case file with a post-it note with the word URGENT written on it, and her nameplate near the computer, its letters composing her name: Tarokki Halia. There's a post-it note under the screen section of the desktop, a hastily written encouragement that Apollo could recognise as detective Fulbright's if he's ever come across a note from him and had a good memory of handwriting.] "You're bound to have preferences at least, no?" [ There's a small chuckle. Despite the lingering tense atmosphere, being in her own workspace brings another layer of safety which makes her relax, even if fractionally. She clicks through a few folders, opening the evidence one for him to peruse to the extent of the computer's currently limited capabilities, and is about to let go of the mouse to leave the cubicle and fetch a glass of water when she hears Apollo's mumbling. Looking to the side, she takes a moment to ponder his question. Oh. Right, of course... introductions. She'd briefly noted it earlier, but the thought had since escaped her mind in the face of more pressing matters.] "I don't think you have, but I don't recall doing so either." [ A small bashful giggle before she shakes her head with a rueful smile.] "Tarokki Halia. Telling you my function might be redundant, so I'll stick to my name." [ She'd heard his name again, or had she? Something that had to do with the law.... Justice? Or was it simply Fulbright throwing his catchphrase around and she'd somehow misunderstood when the detective had mentioned him and his co-counsel during their earlier investigation?]

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

"It does." He paused. "But, it isn't like i can run away from it. Even if I changed my name, and moved to a different state- no, even a different country... I just know trouble would find me."

He contemplated it, occasionally. Was he just unlucky? Or was he somehow cursed? It wasn't like he knew anything about his family, anyways, so it was a possibility... but it was also, in terms of ideas, quite stupid.

As he thought, his eyes continued to idly wander, noting all the random details. Some of them, like the apparently-urgent files, the assumed sibling photo, and the note from whom he was perhaps 75% certain had been Fulbright, stuck in his memory. Perhaps he'd ask about the files, at least, later... If he had the energy to, anyways.

"Um...", he mumbled, eyes going back to the computer screen as she finished moving things around. For a moment, he struggled to remember the options given, biting at his lip a little as he thought. "I'll, uh... dried fruit sounds fine." It sounded the most filling to him, that was most of his reasoning. Though, he also wouldn't mind something sweet, right now.

When she paused to give her brief introduction, Apollo looked back to her, giving a slight nod once she finished speaking.

"Yeah, I remember your job, at least... Miss Halia."

Always one for formalities, he was.

After a little sigh, he straightened himself up, being as proper as he could while holding a bloody napkin up to his face.

"Apollo Justice, criminal defense attorney... No, I didn't choose my job based off my name. Didn't name myself after my job, either... It's, just a coincidence."

A little smile, rather genuine, was given. At least it seemed like he could find humor in his own situation, even now.

"I, ah... work under Phoenix Wright. You've... probably heard of him, at least."

[grandepretresse]

“That bad, huh?”

[ She’s almost tempted to ask, and at first, she resists the urge to pry, but Apollo would likely not respond if he didn’t want to, sooo ask she does.] “Do you have… people following you around? Hitmen on your trail, or something?”

[ Even she doesn’t believe in a word she says, if the nervous chuckle is any indication. She briefly glances towards the monitor and clicks out of a window, right clicking to close a program. The computer’s wheezes slow to a more natural hum.]

“Dried fruit coming right up! Hold on.”

[ A brief hand gesture for him to roll the chair back so she can open her desk drawer, she takes out the unopened bag of dried mango mixed with dried pineapple and cashews, and places it on his side of the desk with a smile.]

“Would you like some hand sanitizer? The bandages around your fingers are bound to get bloody by capillary action from the napkin.”

[ Justice, she remembered right! She beams, and quickly reigns in her glee at the small victory of recalling a name.] “Mr. Justice! Nice to meet you, even if the circumstances are a bit unpleasant. On your end, mostly.” [ She chuckles at his comment about not choosing his profession based on his name, and pulls the mouse towards his hand, gesturing for him to take it. The evidence folder which had mostly presentable assets was in full screen.] “Feel free to browse it to your heart’s content. I sincerely hope you find something to ease your mind and aid in your investigation.” [ And with that, she’s off to get him the previously mentioned glass of water.]

[grandepretresse]

“Aaaand right on time!”  [ Today is Tarokki’s day off, but she still finds herself at the police station for matters unrelated to anything forensic or art. No, today she’s meeting a colleague, or, well… were they friends? She guessed that they were becoming friends, at least, with how kind and cheerful the detective had been the entire time they’d worked together since she’d joined the police department as a forensic artist a few months ago. She considered him a friend, at least.] “Alright, we already decided on a café, I have the address marked on the map, we’re all good!” [ A pep talk to herself to get rid of her nerves. Tarokki had suggested the tea shop she’d worked at during her studies for their next hangout, and Bobby had been on board, with his bright cheerful smile, as always. Florilège was a place filled to the brim with flowers, surrounding giant bookshelves, in a renovated tall glasshouse. She’d mentioned it to the detective on a previous café visit together. The place was very whimsical, and an ideal place to relax and drink a variety of beverages which contained either coffee or tea. She adjusts her giant scarf on top of her coat, some strands of her short hair poking out of the wool. Her breath was visible in the chilly winter air, and she swayed on her feet as she waited for detective Bobby Fulbright to arrive, a smile already on her face.]

@injusticeitrust

[injusticeitrust]

Fulbright, on the other hand, did not burden himself with the worry of making mistakes. The detective was easygoing and, at times, so oblivious you'd wonder how he ended up with the profession he had right now. Though, that wasn't to say his optimism, bright smile and intense friendliness didn't lighten up a dark room.

His friendliness is, ironically enough, exactly what led him here. He had greeted Tarokki with a teethy smile and a prideful presenting of his badge, speaking something about justice and coming up with a new catchphrase. Eventually, through conversing with her multiple times, he had happily taken up her invite on going to the tea shop she formerly worked at.

"Hold on! I'm he~re!"

...Speak of the devil. That same Detective was practically sprinting to get there on time, one hand holding his aviator glasses so they wouldn't fall to the ground and crack. (Really, it'd happened so many times before and Bobby was running out of them). Once he'd gotten to a reasonable distance near Tarokki, he hunched himself over and caught his breath whilst fixing his askew aviators. His head then tilted upwards and she was greeted with a bright smile and a salute.

"My alarm went off late! I'm so sorr~y!"

He took out a white cloth from his breast pocket, waving it around as he tilted his head back and apologized profusely.

[grandepretresse]

[ Tarokki instantly lit up when Fulbright arrived, and she immediately smiles, flashing her teeth in a similar fashion to his. Out of habit of mimicking others, she responded to his salute with one of her own, chuckling as she saw him still catching his breath.]

“Detective Fulbright! There’s no need to apologise, a few minutes late isn’t a big deal.”

[ Whenever Tarokki was unsure of how to address people, she stuck with the more formal approach unless they did otherwise. Detective Fulbright always put so much care into everything he did, and that also included the fact he’d ran to meet her on time. She feels a warmth in her chest, remembering how much his presence had helped when she’d started working with the police. Most people during her studies had told her and her fellow classmates how scary some detectives could be, and even if she’d tried brushing it aside when she joined the service, there was a hint of apprehension that had lingered still. Fulbright’s demeanour had shattered that fear completely, and she’d learned to overthink less, mostly due to her inner work, but she was also positively affected by his presence.]

“Are you ready to go to Florilège? My former colleagues have told me there was an entirely new drink menu!”

[ The tea shop wasn’t very far, definitely within walking distance.]

[injusticeitrust]

"An entirely new drink menu!" Fulbright laughed heartily with pleasant surprise. "I wouldn't have known that at all if it weren't for you! I suppose we're both very lucky."

Fulbright wiped away whatever remaining tears he had in the corner of his eye and put the cloth back in his pocket. He smiled once more- as if it were his default state- and put on his aviators properly.

"I'm ready as always! I can't spend too much time catching my breath here, right?"

His hand reached into his back pocket and proudly presented his badge. Despite Tarokki already having seen it about a billion times, the Detective never seemed to get tired of showing it off. This badge, to Fulbright, was more than just proof of his occupation; it was who he was. He was Detective Fulbright, a symbol of justice! And he would never allow anyone to forget it!

"After all-- justice never rests! So we should get going!"

He put his badge back once he had finished his little catchphrase. Ever since he created it he had been using every chance he could to say it. Oddly enough... it wasn't as infuriating as one would assume it was. Fulbright had many quirks, though his fun personality made it difficult to ever stay mad at him. Paired with that innocent excitement as he talked to people he liked and you'd have a lovingly deadly combo.

"...If you're ready, of course!" He quickly added, putting a hand on his hip.

[grandepretresse]

“We are lucky! I should thank my colleagues for letting me know once get there, if they’re at work!”

[ When Fulbright presents his badge, Tarokki has the same reaction as the first time he’d presented it, minus the initial surprised expression. She smiles brightly, balling her fists and holding them up with a solemn stare on her face. If her pupils could shine even more, there would be sparkles in her irises. Of course she’s seen it many times, but the pride Fulbright exudes whenever he presents it is something that Tarokki admires, and she means to return his enthusiasm by showing him It’s not an exaggerated expression, no, she never has to push her enthusiasm too far - Fulbright’s energy simply has that effect, making others around him cheerier than even their usual personalities would allow. There’s a nod when he adds about her being ready, and she points towards the direction of the café, making idle conversation about the café’s layout on the way.] [ Florilège is a giant greenhouse dome, from which the glass windows show the jungle-like amount of plants (smaller trees, even!) decorating the inside. Baroque armchairs in muted greens and muted purples form the many seating areas, their tables transparent to mesh with the walls and floors of the retrofitted building in the middle of an open park. When they enter, they are greeted by a waitress dressed in a muter purple apron over frilly clothes. She shows the duo to a table on the upper part of the greenhouse, the soft synths of the ambient music playing notes at irregular intervals.] “Here we are! I already spied the colours of the new menu, I think they’re going for blue drinks this season!” [ She turns to look at Fulbright, curious to see his reaction to the place, a curious glint in her eyes as she smiles.]

[grandepretresse]

“The kami of this shrine?”

[ How fascinating. Did that mean that different shrines had different kamis? Tarokki was intrigued, but she would save her questions for later. For now, the place Shuuji was suggesting seemed like the ideal place for a reading, and with the surrounding energies, Tarokki had a good feeling the cards would be very talkative. She follows him, taking in the beautiful surroundings and how peaceful everything feels. The pond catches her attention, and she looks down to see the koi as she passes by, before focusing on the tables. There’s a few seconds of deliberation, as if she’s trying to pick the ideal spot to read the energies around, and when she notices Shuuji seems to be waiting to sit first, she does so, on the sitting space closest to the tree. She unties her sage green shawl from her bag, and places it over the table after checking that it was free of water droplets or frost, and then looks up when she hears him speak.]

“Oh, coming here with tea… that sounds like a delight.”

[ Of course, saying hello was a given. She briefly wonders if she’s said hello to the spirits in a way that they would find satisfactory - was there a specific way to say hello that she wasn’t aware of? There’s a small sigh as she considers the possibility of visiting the shrine again. Yes, Tarokki could see herself coming here more often. She wonders if he’d guessed her appreciation for tea, or known about it due to the box of tea she’d brought to the beverage station when starting out at the precinct. Maybe he’d heard it from a colleague? She carefully unhooks the pouch holding the deck from her belt, and opens it to reveal a deck of golden gilded edged cards with purple and gold backs, and smiles when she spots Shuuji’s open palm.]

“Aah, are you looking to have a reading regarding your future, Mr. Koda?”

[ There’s a knowing smile as she looks into his eyes and shuffles the cards.]

“Normally, I light up an incense stick to purify the cards, and ask the person I am reading for to either touch the cards thinking about their question, or touch the shawl where I will be placing the cards, with the same attention to the question. Given the fact we’re in a shrine, we can forego the incense. I can feel my cards - they are lighter.”

[kodapi]

     ‹ The moment the cards became visible, his eyes had shifted to take in every detail about them — or perhaps he was watching her hands and the way they expertly slid the cards between themselves. Eventually though his gaze returned upwards to meet hers, careful to listen to what she had to say about her process. With two ways to go about it, he wanted her to keep that power of choice in this situation, and so already he had began to peel his leather gloves off as he spoke. ›

    ❝ This shrine is one that belongs to Inari, the kami of rice. She is associated with many things for many people, but often people will choose to believe that she will bring them luck and aid in their lives if her messengers bring her bountiful offerings on the person's behalf. ❞

     ‹ Finally both gloves had been removed and tucked into his coat pocket, but what emerged was not flesh as expected, but rather metal with joins that glowed a gentle cyan — a glow that seemed to breathe in time with the detective himself, even. This revealed the wrists to also be prosthetics, a trend that trailed up his sleeve for what little Tarokki might see at that angle. ›

    ❝ Though as calmed as they may be by the shrine's blessings, I just hope the cards don't mind that these hands of mine are a bit more artificial, ❞ ‹ he continued with a grin on his face, his expression a light-hearted one. › ❝ Only one way to find out, as they say! ❞

[grandepretresse]

[ Initially, Tarokki is too focused on the shuffling of her cards and Shuuji’s answer about the kami to truly notice the metal which was peeking out from where he was removing his gloves. She shuffles once, twice, knocks on the deck, and splits it to shuffle one last time. The motion was almost meditative, and she was able to listen to him with ease.] “Inari… isn’t that the Japanese word for fox?” [ Already, her voice is slower, more measured and in a slightly lower register. She closes her eyes briefly, attuning herself to the surrounding energies and inhaling deeply, before exhaling. When she opens her eyes, her gaze automatically lands on the metal of his hands, and her eyes widen briefly, but it is a fleeting surprise. The state she was in allowed for less emotional outbursts and more collectedness. She gives Shuuji a soft smile as she catches his gaze, a silent invitation for him to share more should he wish to, but Tarokki won’t pry.] “The cards are like lady Justice. Impartial and welcoming. Your spirit is still the same, regardless of the state of one’s body, is it not?” [ A small chuckle. She presents the deck to him, looking into his eyes with a steady gaze.] “Hold the deck in your hands and visualise the question in your mind. If you’d like, you’re free to do a shuffle of the cards. Afterwards, I will lay them out on the shawl with their backs facing us, and pick the cards that most call to attention in a classic past - present - future reading.”

[grandepretresse]

((Carving time out of my day to finish replies and drawings related to them tomorrow! Thank you for your patience and have a lovely sunday!))

[grandepretresse]

⋆🎧✮ continued from here ✮🎧⋆

Klavier was definitely not prepared for the sight that greeted him when he opened the door. He barely recognizes Apollo from afar, and despite his exhaustion, Klavier still runs the short distance between the door and Apollo’s bedside. His mind isn’t working with him because instead of pulling a chair like a normal person, Klavier wastes no time falling on his knees so he can be somewhat level with Apollo, his eyes darting between different bandaged spots on his upper body as if he’s mapping Apollo, checking for injuries, as if he were a doctor, a nurse, as if he could do something.

But Klavier couldn’t, the extent of his help was his presence. (Was it even welcome?) Apollo speaks, it’s faint, but Klavier hears him well enough. (Why did he sound surprised?) “Ach, please don’t tire yourself, you must be exhausted.” Even he knew it was the understatement of the century. Someone in Apollo’s state couldn’t just be exhausted. The blood seeping through his bandages, it makes Klavier’s face pale. He looks around for a nurse, but the room is empty save for those two. He can hear the beeping of the monitor tracking Apollo’s vitals, steady. That was a good sign, at least. “Are you in pain?” He asks, and instantly feels stupid for saying it out loud. How could he not be in pain? Still, it was the only thing he thought to ask him, to bridge the gap between them. Maybe he should have reminded Apollo that he was his emergency contact, in case the explosion had somehow messed with his memories, but… he had called his name, hadn’t he?

@surging-eyes-seeing-au

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

It was so hard to tell what was wrong, really. He was injured, obviously, but how? Was it internal? Only external? Even having witnessed the explosion wouldn't add clarity. Apollo certainly wouldn't know, anyways.

Clay wondered to himself, idly, thoughts directed at Apollo. he thought he hated him. Or, generally, disliked his presence. A mixed twinge of emotions was thrown back, nothing in the sense of an exact answer given.

It was so weird. So, so weird. Apollo could only stare, for a few, long seconds. Why in the world was he here? Before anyone else? Surely, Phoenix would be rushing. And Athena had a car, right? There were so many others. So many other possibilities. He... his brain lagged, just trying to process it all.

To the first statement, he continued to stare, eyelids drooping a little. He didn't feel exhausted, admittedly. Everything was just... off. Too nervous to sleep, but too numb to want to move. The faded memory didn't help, nor did the spirit invading his thoughts. The spirit who, due to the weakening of its host, seemed to be much louder and more influential, now...

The question of pain made his focus return to the man, eyes squinting more. What seemed to be an incredibly weak sigh was given, before he started to talk again.

"...I ... everything aches. Feels so heavy.... There's... nothing laying on me, right?"

Of course there wasn't anything on him, Clay retorted. He was just drugged. Apollo responded in turn, thoughts uneven. He just had to make sure. And, to be frank, he trusted Klavier more than Clay at the moment.

To the latter's rather thorough chagrin.

The soft chirping of one of the machines increased in tempo, just barely. A slight fluctuation in his heartbeat. It was... probably nothing.

[grandepretresse]

There were very few moments where Klavier was as focused as now. He was attuned to every sound surrounding them, the beeping of the machine, Apollo’s breathing, the raspy quality of his voice when he spoke, the weakness of his sigh. It’s almost as though Klavier was holding his own breath for fear of missing even one simple detail.

“There’s nothing laying on you, no.” Klavier speaks, and his voice is even softer than when he’d walked in. He looks at the redness of his skin from where it’s peeking out of the bandages, and there’s a brief scary thought that he doesn’t entertain. No point in thinking about how it would have been if Apollo hadn’t made it. He was here, now. Very much alive, despite his state, despite the circumstances which had led him here, to this hospital room. “This heaviness, how or where do you feel it?” He briefly remembers the way nurses had spoken to his father when he was in the hospital. Something about validating one’s feelings and physical symptoms. He hasn’t moved from his kneeling position, but now that he’s heard Apollo speak a few times, he relaxes ever-so-slightly, and clears his throat. All that running had made his throat extremely dry, he could feel the soreness, an unpleasant feeling, but certainly nothing compared to how Apollo must be feeling. “If there’s anything I can do, please ask. That is the reason why I am here, after all.”

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

"Ah... It's... everything feels heavy.", he muttered, before his eyes suddenly sharpened, a brief lucidity filling them. "This is... normal, right? Should I be worried..?"

His heart rate went up, just slightly, once more. The brief panic seemed to subside after a few more seconds, though, the machine's quiet chirps returning to their previous rate. It was, notably, faster than normal. But, as Klavier's own heart rate was likely sky-high at the moment, it was rather hard to notice as much.

After letting them close for a handful of seconds, Apollo reopened his eyes, narrowing them slightly at Klavier. Not out of anger, no, out of genuine confusion.

"...What do you mean, the... reason that you're here?". He paused, for a moment. "Were you... just the closest..?

Did he care that much?

Clearly, he wasn't faking it. Apollo didn't need his bracelet to know that. But, it was unusual- Apollo was much used to the normal Klavier. The Klavier who flaunted himself, even when his nervous tics were as plain as day. The one who never passed up an opportunity to pick on him, taunt him, anything.

This... whatever was before him. It... It almost made him feel bad.

All the while. a biting voice lashed out from within him. How dare he not trust his best friend. His friend, who knew what was best in the situation. Like leaving that girl in the explosion. Why didn't he do that? He would be safe, now, if he listened.

Apollo's expression tensed a little, his heart gently speeding up once more. No, he didn't want to listen to him. An apology was given, of course. Yes, they were friends. Friends in life. But this was different.

So different.

He didn't want to think it, of course, but the thought crossed his mind anyways.

Were they even friends anymore?

[grandepretresse]

Klavier shouldn’t have been laughing, this was no light situation. But the way Apollo’s eyes had sharpened - the way it felt so distinctively Apollo to come to his senses, for a brief instant, even if quite possibly numbed by all the pain-suppressing drugs. He doesn’t muffle the small chuckle, his shoulders relaxing as he looks down at Apollo’s very tired-looking face. Klavier doesn’t even know why he finds it so reassuring, but he does.

The expression of amusement fades instantly at Apollo’s question, however. “Nein?” There’s a hint of confusion. “The emergency contact.” He says. “I was called.” (How was it possible not for him to know?) Emergency contacts weren’t just randomly picked by medical staff in case of emergency. Klavier doubted that he would come at random, if that was even a possibility. No, if Apollo didn’t know, and it was Klavier who was called, it could only be because— He thinks about his brother, Apollo’s former boss. The only logical conclusion, then, would be that they-- The more frantic beeping of the machine pulls him out of his thoughts, and he leans forwards slightly. He frowns, slight panic flashing on his features as he extends a hand which stops short of Apollo’s face. “Herr Justice!” Maybe raising his voice, even if due to worry, was not the brightest idea, in hindsight. “Do you need me to call a nurse?”

[grandepretresse]

⋆🎧✮ continued from here ✮🎧⋆

Klavier was definitely not prepared for the sight that greeted him when he opened the door. He barely recognizes Apollo from afar, and despite his exhaustion, Klavier still runs the short distance between the door and Apollo’s bedside. His mind isn’t working with him because instead of pulling a chair like a normal person, Klavier wastes no time falling on his knees so he can be somewhat level with Apollo, his eyes darting between different bandaged spots on his upper body as if he’s mapping Apollo, checking for injuries, as if he were a doctor, a nurse, as if he could do something.

But Klavier couldn’t, the extent of his help was his presence. (Was it even welcome?) Apollo speaks, it’s faint, but Klavier hears him well enough. (Why did he sound surprised?) “Ach, please don’t tire yourself, you must be exhausted.” Even he knew it was the understatement of the century. Someone in Apollo’s state couldn’t just be exhausted. The blood seeping through his bandages, it makes Klavier’s face pale. He looks around for a nurse, but the room is empty save for those two. He can hear the beeping of the monitor tracking Apollo’s vitals, steady. That was a good sign, at least. “Are you in pain?” He asks, and instantly feels stupid for saying it out loud. How could he not be in pain? Still, it was the only thing he thought to ask him, to bridge the gap between them. Maybe he should have reminded Apollo that he was his emergency contact, in case the explosion had somehow messed with his memories, but… he had called his name, hadn’t he?

@surging-eyes-seeing-au

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

It was so hard to tell what was wrong, really. He was injured, obviously, but how? Was it internal? Only external? Even having witnessed the explosion wouldn't add clarity. Apollo certainly wouldn't know, anyways.

Clay wondered to himself, idly, thoughts directed at Apollo. he thought he hated him. Or, generally, disliked his presence. A mixed twinge of emotions was thrown back, nothing in the sense of an exact answer given.

It was so weird. So, so weird. Apollo could only stare, for a few, long seconds. Why in the world was he here? Before anyone else? Surely, Phoenix would be rushing. And Athena had a car, right? There were so many others. So many other possibilities. He... his brain lagged, just trying to process it all.

To the first statement, he continued to stare, eyelids drooping a little. He didn't feel exhausted, admittedly. Everything was just... off. Too nervous to sleep, but too numb to want to move. The faded memory didn't help, nor did the spirit invading his thoughts. The spirit who, due to the weakening of its host, seemed to be much louder and more influential, now...

The question of pain made his focus return to the man, eyes squinting more. What seemed to be an incredibly weak sigh was given, before he started to talk again.

"...I ... everything aches. Feels so heavy.... There's... nothing laying on me, right?"

Of course there wasn't anything on him, Clay retorted. He was just drugged. Apollo responded in turn, thoughts uneven. He just had to make sure. And, to be frank, he trusted Klavier more than Clay at the moment.

To the latter's rather thorough chagrin.

The soft chirping of one of the machines increased in tempo, just barely. A slight fluctuation in his heartbeat. It was... probably nothing.

[grandepretresse]

There were very few moments where Klavier was as focused as now. He was attuned to every sound surrounding them, the beeping of the machine, Apollo’s breathing, the raspy quality of his voice when he spoke, the weakness of his sigh. It’s almost as though Klavier was holding his own breath for fear of missing even one simple detail.

“There’s nothing laying on you, no.” Klavier speaks, and his voice is even softer than when he’d walked in. He looks at the redness of his skin from where it’s peeking out of the bandages, and there’s a brief scary thought that he doesn’t entertain. No point in thinking about how it would have been if Apollo hadn’t made it. He was here, now. Very much alive, despite his state, despite the circumstances which had led him here, to this hospital room. “This heaviness, how or where do you feel it?” He briefly remembers the way nurses had spoken to his father when he was in the hospital. Something about validating one’s feelings and physical symptoms. He hasn’t moved from his kneeling position, but now that he’s heard Apollo speak a few times, he relaxes ever-so-slightly, and clears his throat. All that running had made his throat extremely dry, he could feel the soreness, an unpleasant feeling, but certainly nothing compared to how Apollo must be feeling. “If there’s anything I can do, please ask. That is the reason why I am here, after all.”

[grandepretresse]

“Oh, really??”

[ Just the fact that he’s curious about tarot is enough to make Tarokki’s smile grow into an excited grin. It’s a subject that is near and dear to her heart, she could only light up whenever anyone asked about it. When Shuuji mentions compensation, however, her smile falls, and her expression turns bashful as she waves her hands around dismissively.]

“Oh, no no, don’t worry about compensation! It’s best for you to see or experience a reading beforehand, I wouldn’t feel comfortable receiving compensation if you’re getting introduced to the medium!”

[ There’s a slight pause as she calms down, it was unlike her to get flustered so easily, but this morning’s anxiety had crept its way back and made her more reactive than she was usually. She sighs, trying to focus on the surrounding energies of the shrine, and not whatever is gnawing at her. ]

“Oh, do you mean now?” [ It had taken her a moment to register he was hinting at a potential reading on the spot, and while Tarokki mostly did scheduled readings… She looks around for a bit, taking in the calm surroundings. Maybe providing a service - reading for someone else - this was exactly what she needed to get out of her own head. She smiles again.]

“ I do have everything I need for a reading with me. If performing a reading at a shrine isn’t frowned upon, then I would happily show how it works, Mr. Koda!”

[It was clear she wasn’t aware of the customs of visiting shrines. She had a feeling, if the broom in Shuuji’s hand was any indication, that he might know far more than she did.]

[kodapi]

     ‹ Her reactions of enthusiasm only seemed to mirror into Shuuji's own smile which had grown wider upon seeing just how elated she had become. It was little moments like this that made what he did feel all the more worth it; those little smiles, those little moments of joy. Tarokki was allowed to ramble on until she seemed to settle on actually offering it up, which caused the detective to take a glance over at one of the two lion-dog statues that sat upon a couple pillars at the entrance — almost as if silently asking for their approval. ›

    ❝ I think the kami of this shrine is intrigued by the notion, ❞ ‹ came Shuuji's relaxed reply as he returned his gentle gaze to her. › ❝ There is a table nearby, in a secluded and beautiful spot. I think that would be a wonderful place to do the reading. ❞

     ‹ Broom still in hand, the detective would gesture with his free one for Tarokki to follow. The shrine itself was small, but there towards the back corner opposite of the entrance was a thin path beneath a torii gate that seemed to be how one would enter the otherwise walled-off garden. Hedges would open up to reveal a couple of small wooden tables set up along the pathways surrounding a gorgeous pond, large koi seen flitting about lazily in the waters. Beneath one of the sakura trees Shuuji would gesture to one such table though he seemed to wait for Tarokki to claim her own chair before he followed suit. ›

    ❝ As an aside, if you ever feel weary from the world, I'd recommend you come here with some tea, ❞ ‹ he would say as he rest his arms on his legs, respectful of the small space atop the table. › ❝ So long as you give the kami a friendly hello on your way in, she won't mind you resting here. ❞

     ‹ After he spoke he would gesture an open palm to Tarokki's deck, his eyes now a bit rounder with his growing excitement. The broom was left to lean upon the nearby tree trunk with due care, a respect given to it as if it too were a person. ›

    ❝ Now then, let's see what the Sisters of Fate have in store for me, hm? ❞

[grandepretresse]

“The kami of this shrine?”

[ How fascinating. Did that mean that different shrines had different kamis? Tarokki was intrigued, but she would save her questions for later. For now, the place Shuuji was suggesting seemed like the ideal place for a reading, and with the surrounding energies, Tarokki had a good feeling the cards would be very talkative. She follows him, taking in the beautiful surroundings and how peaceful everything feels. The pond catches her attention, and she looks down to see the koi as she passes by, before focusing on the tables. There’s a few seconds of deliberation, as if she’s trying to pick the ideal spot to read the energies around, and when she notices Shuuji seems to be waiting to sit first, she does so, on the sitting space closest to the tree. She unties her sage green shawl from her bag, and places it over the table after checking that it was free of water droplets or frost, and then looks up when she hears him speak.]

“Oh, coming here with tea… that sounds like a delight.”

[ Of course, saying hello was a given. She briefly wonders if she’s said hello to the spirits in a way that they would find satisfactory - was there a specific way to say hello that she wasn’t aware of? There’s a small sigh as she considers the possibility of visiting the shrine again. Yes, Tarokki could see herself coming here more often. She wonders if he’d guessed her appreciation for tea, or known about it due to the box of tea she’d brought to the beverage station when starting out at the precinct. Maybe he’d heard it from a colleague? She carefully unhooks the pouch holding the deck from her belt, and opens it to reveal a deck of golden gilded edged cards with purple and gold backs, and smiles when she spots Shuuji’s open palm.]

“Aah, are you looking to have a reading regarding your future, Mr. Koda?”

[ There’s a knowing smile as she looks into his eyes and shuffles the cards.]

“Normally, I light up an incense stick to purify the cards, and ask the person I am reading for to either touch the cards thinking about their question, or touch the shawl where I will be placing the cards, with the same attention to the question. Given the fact we’re in a shrine, we can forego the incense. I can feel my cards - they are lighter.”

[grandepretresse]

⋆🎧✮ continued from here ✮🎧⋆

Klavier was definitely not prepared for the sight that greeted him when he opened the door. He barely recognizes Apollo from afar, and despite his exhaustion, Klavier still runs the short distance between the door and Apollo’s bedside. His mind isn’t working with him because instead of pulling a chair like a normal person, Klavier wastes no time falling on his knees so he can be somewhat level with Apollo, his eyes darting between different bandaged spots on his upper body as if he’s mapping Apollo, checking for injuries, as if he were a doctor, a nurse, as if he could do something.

But Klavier couldn’t, the extent of his help was his presence. (Was it even welcome?) Apollo speaks, it’s faint, but Klavier hears him well enough. (Why did he sound surprised?) “Ach, please don’t tire yourself, you must be exhausted.” Even he knew it was the understatement of the century. Someone in Apollo’s state couldn’t just be exhausted. The blood seeping through his bandages, it makes Klavier’s face pale. He looks around for a nurse, but the room is empty save for those two. He can hear the beeping of the monitor tracking Apollo’s vitals, steady. That was a good sign, at least. “Are you in pain?” He asks, and instantly feels stupid for saying it out loud. How could he not be in pain? Still, it was the only thing he thought to ask him, to bridge the gap between them. Maybe he should have reminded Apollo that he was his emergency contact, in case the explosion had somehow messed with his memories, but… he had called his name, hadn’t he?

@surging-eyes-seeing-au

[grandepretresse]

🀧 continuing from here [ There was a brief, warm ‘you’re welcome’ to Apollo’s thanks, but the mood soon took a major shift when Apollo’s expression fell, and Tarokki’s blood turned cold as she processed the implications of it in regards to her question. The flat expression on Apollo’s face almost looked scary, and she could feel her earrings shift slightly though Tarokki hadn’t moved her head. She slowly raises her hand to stop the earring from making that very faint yet distressing hissing sound each time it attempted to turn to the other side.]

[ She could feel the indentations in the metal of the card, and she ran her finger over it trying to decipher what it was trying to tell her, but she was taken out of her thoughts by Apollo’s mutter.] “Wait, you’re—“ [ She grabs another napkin from the beverage station and hands it to him. She doesn’t feel like she needs to finish her sentence, Apollo must be feeling the blood running down his nose and over his lips. Tarokki sighs, and despite Apollo telling her not to worry, she finds that she can’t just brush it off. First, however, is a check for his physical wellbeing.] “Alright, you clearly need to sit down, have you eaten anything? When was the last time you’ve rested?” [ Just how many nosebleeds had this man had that he could just brush off one more? This was not looking good. She would continue her line of questioning later.] @surging-eyes-seeing-au

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

Apollo's thoughts seemed to lag a little, the stare he was giving lingering on even as she holds the new napkin out. Of course, he had felt mentally tired before, but... this, it actually felt as if his thoughts were fatigued. So badly, did he want to crumple to the ground, and pass out, but... again. There was too much hinging on this next day. He couldn't let himself rest.

Finally, he glanced down, gingerly taking the new napkin in the same hand that held the old. For another moment, he simply held it, before focusing on the metallic taste in the back of his throat. Right. It was brought to his nose, muffling his next response.

"Last time I've eaten something..." His eyes scrunched up, drifting to the side in thought. "...Yesterday, I think. I... can't rest right now."

He wouldn't be so forthcoming, normally. But, his focus was limited, so the truth was the easiest thing to give... Even if said truth was, admittedly, quite troubling.

After a few seconds passed, his demeanor suddenly changed, back to the one he had started with. Eyes partially focused, his expression solidifying into a serious look. Underneath it all, though, his tiredness was still obvious.

"...This isn't important, I... "

What was he here for, again? Right.

"...I need to know if you've found any new evidence. I don't care what it is, I... just need to look at it."

\\ Awesome art! I did apollo circa my last message as a warmup earlier so I suppose I'll send that aswell..

[grandepretresse]

“Oh, wow, I get the whole powering through deal but honestly, how are you alive at this point?”

[ Tarokki still hadn’t had the time to really check her earring’s indentations, and she could still feel it wanting to turn faintly now, she held it in place. There was a general sense of unease that had passed through her entire body, which made her tone seem more aggravated when she’d spoken to Apollo. Combined with her words it sounded as if she was scolding him, which she would have apologised for, were she not feeling so worried, even more tired all of a sudden, antsy. Worst part was she couldn’t exactly pinpoint what had caused the shift, and Tarokki hated not knowing these things.]

“The evidence, yes. Actually a good idea. I’ll let you review it, but you’re going to sit down at my desk and eat something, or your body will eventually just give in and there’s not much investigating you’ll be able to do in that state.“

[ It sounds like scolding once more, concerned scolding for someone she’s only now met instead of just seeing in passing. Even though they hadn’t properly introduced each other to one another, Apollo worked for law enforcement, which made him a colleague. And Tarokki wouldn’t let a colleague wear himself down if she could help it. She initially reaches to grab his arm, but pauses and retracts her hand at once. She didn’t want to invade his personal space, nor did she want to further bring him pain, if the bandages on his forearm and peeking out of his collar were any indication of how badly he was injured underneath them.]

“I think they have snacks in the beverage station cupboard, though I’m not sure they’re anything qualitative… I have some arguably tastier and healthier ones in my desk drawer, too, savoury or sweet. I can make more tea and bring you a glass of water. With those bandages, you probably need even more hydration for your tissues to properly heal.”

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

The first comment made his expression falter, what looked to be an incredibly weak smile appearing on his face.

"That's... a good question."

It was the story of his life, really. Burning buildings, revolutions, rivers, abandonment, getting hired by a killer, a bombing, head trauma, and now unwilling possession...

He had been through a lot. A lot, that should have killed him. His life did really feel like an anomaly, something that made him question himself sometimes. There wasn't enough focus to think about that now, though. All he could focus on was finding what he needed.

Evidence.

Solid evidence.

Food and a seat, in exchange for looking things over? Obviously, it was a good exchange, if not a bit unbalanced... but all he cared about was what he got. Hell, if one had asked him to put a nail through his hand in exchange for it, he would've probably done it.

"I'll... I'm fine with doing that. You don't need to get me food, but... I'll eat it, I guess. I've been able to do everything for this long, I should be fine..."

Despite the fact that he wasn't even fine to begin with.

He pulled the napkin away from his face after a moment passed, checking the splotches of blood before his focus went to the briefly-extending hand. While his eyes lingered there for a moment, Tarokki's speaking drew his attention upwards soon after. A rather plain reaction was given in response, though there was a little more energy put into it than before. At least it seemed like he was recovering from... whatever happened, earlier.

"Um, well... anything works, really. I'm not picky, and I'm not hungry for anything in particular, right now... And, well, I did get an IV earlier, now that I think about it, so I should be okay for hydration."

The memory of the hospital made him wince a little. There are a lot of warnings we're getting off of you, they had said. Wanted him to stay for more testing and recovery. He denied them, of course.

Speaking on warnings, it really was not clear where the vibes were coming from. But, whatever they had been, they had seemed deadly serious, and incredibly strong. Though, Apollo certainly hadn't been looking the part, to give such a reaction- all he looked was distressed.

It was almost like he was reacting to the vibes, rather than giving them himself.

[grandepretresse]

“You’re the kind of person who likes to push their luck, huh?”

[ A huff. Apollo’s behaviour is eerily familiar to the point it brings unpleasant memories. Tarokki grimaces at the reminder of who he makes her think of, someone she’d rather not dwell thinking about. Stubborn didn’t even start to describe how he was acting right now in regards to his own health, but she doesn’t comment further, and accepts his acquiescence to the food with a small smile as she beckons Apollo towards her desk with a quick gesture of her hand, before making her way there - ten steps away, that is. If she wasn’t so focused on the overall energies surrounding them, as well as his wellbeing - ever the altruist, miss Halia -, Tarokki might have recognised those traits in herself.]

“Do you have any allergies? I have… roasted chickpeas, veggie chips, whole wheat crackers, dark chocolate, and dried fruit.”

[ Rummaging through her desk drawer helps enumerate the various packaged snacks she has in there. She purposely leaves her chair empty for him to sit, standing on the side of her desk as she clicks out of a software which is still mid-render, the computer’s ventilators making an obnoxiously loud whirring sound with how much power the process is consuming. It’s a wonder that she’s able to interact with the various windows on her desktop, and she manages to open the evidence folder. The ones which haven’t been converted into one readable and viewable 3d file have their own folders of pictures from the crime scene.]

“Even with the IV, are you sure you don’t want tea or water?” [ Even moving around the room didn’t lessen the oppressive vibes in the room. When Tarokki looked around, however, it seemed that none of her coworkers who were still working at this hour were affected by them, but Tarokki felt as if she was getting slightly suffocated by the strength of them, even though she couldn’t quite pinpoint the source. Ans Apollo, well… She couldn’t tell if his state was due to the energies in themselves, or his overall physical health and exertion.]

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

"...Always have been." The smile lingered, an exhausted sigh given as well, his voice still slightly muffled by the napkin at his nose. "With my kind of life, that's the only way to go, really..."

It could be worse. It certainly could. That's all he kept telling himself. It was true, probably. Probably. He could be dead! But he wasn't.

Another sigh.

He let himself be led to the desk, his eyes scanning the surroundings before taking a closer look at the cubicle itself. He'd been in here plenty, and always liked noting the details setting each one apart. Reminded him how different everyone was. Made him wonder what kinds of lives everyone was living, outside of the building.

But he didn't have time to be sentimental right now.

While he lingered on his feet for a few, long seconds, Apollo eventually did sit down. He could tell it was being offered, anyways, and didn't want to be impolite... though, he did feel bad. He didn't even know this person's name, and they were doing so much for him.

Well, he did know their name. It was on their desk. It looked... unique. But so did his, so he couldn't say anything.

"No allergies. I... well, I don't know. But I eat everything, really. So I doubt it matters."

The napkin was lowered for a moment, checked before being held back up. Indeed, there had been blood on it. He didn't even know why he checked. At least the nosebleed seemed to be slowing down.

The computer was stared at for a long moment. It looked horrendously outdated, or maybe that was just the frame. It was much more expensive than anything he usually handled, in any case, simply having a light laptop for personal use and a crappy old desktop at work. The rendering, as boring as it was, was watched for a moment, before his attention turned back to Tarokki.

"I mean... if you give me water, I'll drink it, I guess."

It's her decision, that makes him feel better. Feel less bad for suddenly coming in here, nearly losing control of himself, and then asking for police data. He did need to drink after all, he knew that. And if he needed to wait for the computer to load things, he might as well try to fuel himself up while the time passed.

Indeed, the source of Apollo's seeming woes was difficult to pinpoint. But, there was simply something... odd about it all. And the energy in the room, it hadn't been this bad before, had it? Before he wandered his way in? It almost felt as if there was a storm cloud following the man, drenching him and all those around him in strife. Was he aware of it? Maybe. He was aware of something, that was, at least, for sure.

"...Ah." He suddenly mumbled, having been reminded earlier. "Did I... ever introduce myself to you?"

[grandepretresse]

“Does it not exhaust you?”

[ This, she asks in a softer tone, offering him a sympathetic smile as she watches Apollo wipe the blood away from his nose. It didn’t seem to be bleeding as much now. A good sign.]

[ The cubicle is in a corner of the open workspace. While Tarokki values an organized workspace, she has a few knickknacks here and there to add some liveliness to the otherwise bleak and grey furnishings. A dark purple board pinned to the left wall of the cubicle with flower magnets, a to-do list, a picture of what appears to be a younger Tarokki with a boy who shares multiple similar traits to her, pinned by an azalea magnet. A handwrittn note, a to-do list, and several half-erased doodles. The desk is more plain, its only decoration being a dark purple teapot serving as a pen holder, and near the mouse, a closed case file with a post-it note with the word URGENT written on it, and her nameplate near the computer, its letters composing her name: Tarokki Halia. There's a post-it note under the screen section of the desktop, a hastily written encouragement that Apollo could recognise as detective Fulbright's if he's ever come across a note from him and had a good memory of handwriting.] "You're bound to have preferences at least, no?" [ There's a small chuckle. Despite the lingering tense atmosphere, being in her own workspace brings another layer of safety which makes her relax, even if fractionally. She clicks through a few folders, opening the evidence one for him to peruse to the extent of the computer's currently limited capabilities, and is about to let go of the mouse to leave the cubicle and fetch a glass of water when she hears Apollo's mumbling. Looking to the side, she takes a moment to ponder his question. Oh. Right, of course... introductions. She'd briefly noted it earlier, but the thought had since escaped her mind in the face of more pressing matters.] "I don't think you have, but I don't recall doing so either." [ A small bashful giggle before she shakes her head with a rueful smile.] "Tarokki Halia. Telling you my function might be redundant, so I'll stick to my name." [ She'd heard his name again, or had she? Something that had to do with the law.... Justice? Or was it simply Fulbright throwing his catchphrase around and she'd somehow misunderstood when the detective had mentioned him and his co-counsel during their earlier investigation?]

[kodapi]

                   [ Continued from ✎ || @grandepretresse ]

     ‹ To hear her remember his name made him grin a bit wider in delight; though he knew others recalled it for his constant service to the police and the citizens of the city, it always tickled him to have someone know it before ever asking. Though he wanted to focus more on Tarokki now, to understand the woman that some at the precinct spoke so highly of. ›

    ❝ Tarot? I am familiar with the concept, but I never got the chance to experience it, myself. If you're offering, I would absolutely love a reading - paid for, of course, since I want you to get some compensation for your time! ❞

     ‹ His gloved hand gestured to the deck at her hip, his eyes sparkling with corners crinkled up with absolute delight. He really was fascinated with the concept and was wondering what she might read for his future. A small part of him was quite curious... would it tell him what he already suspected? ›

    ❝ Ah, I'm sorry — that's awfully pushy of me, isn't it? You're probably just looking to relax, given you came out to a shrine like this. Don't let my curiosity ruin that, Miss Halia. ❞

[grandepretresse]

“Oh, really??”

[ Just the fact that he’s curious about tarot is enough to make Tarokki’s smile grow into an excited grin. It’s a subject that is near and dear to her heart, she could only light up whenever anyone asked about it. When Shuuji mentions compensation, however, her smile falls, and her expression turns bashful as she waves her hands around dismissively.]

“Oh, no no, don’t worry about compensation! It’s best for you to see or experience a reading beforehand, I wouldn’t feel comfortable receiving compensation if you’re getting introduced to the medium!”

[ There’s a slight pause as she calms down, it was unlike her to get flustered so easily, but this morning’s anxiety had crept its way back and made her more reactive than she was usually. She sighs, trying to focus on the surrounding energies of the shrine, and not whatever is gnawing at her. ]

“Oh, do you mean now?” [ It had taken her a moment to register he was hinting at a potential reading on the spot, and while Tarokki mostly did scheduled readings… She looks around for a bit, taking in the calm surroundings. Maybe providing a service - reading for someone else - this was exactly what she needed to get out of her own head. She smiles again.]

“ I do have everything I need for a reading with me. If performing a reading at a shrine isn’t frowned upon, then I would happily show how it works, Mr. Koda!”

[It was clear she wasn’t aware of the customs of visiting shrines. She had a feeling, if the broom in Shuuji’s hand was any indication, that he might know far more than she did.]

[grandepretresse]

🀧 continuing from here [ There was a brief, warm ‘you’re welcome’ to Apollo’s thanks, but the mood soon took a major shift when Apollo’s expression fell, and Tarokki’s blood turned cold as she processed the implications of it in regards to her question. The flat expression on Apollo’s face almost looked scary, and she could feel her earrings shift slightly though Tarokki hadn’t moved her head. She slowly raises her hand to stop the earring from making that very faint yet distressing hissing sound each time it attempted to turn to the other side.]

[ She could feel the indentations in the metal of the card, and she ran her finger over it trying to decipher what it was trying to tell her, but she was taken out of her thoughts by Apollo’s mutter.] “Wait, you’re—“ [ She grabs another napkin from the beverage station and hands it to him. She doesn’t feel like she needs to finish her sentence, Apollo must be feeling the blood running down his nose and over his lips. Tarokki sighs, and despite Apollo telling her not to worry, she finds that she can’t just brush it off. First, however, is a check for his physical wellbeing.] “Alright, you clearly need to sit down, have you eaten anything? When was the last time you’ve rested?” [ Just how many nosebleeds had this man had that he could just brush off one more? This was not looking good. She would continue her line of questioning later.] @surging-eyes-seeing-au

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

Apollo's thoughts seemed to lag a little, the stare he was giving lingering on even as she holds the new napkin out. Of course, he had felt mentally tired before, but... this, it actually felt as if his thoughts were fatigued. So badly, did he want to crumple to the ground, and pass out, but... again. There was too much hinging on this next day. He couldn't let himself rest.

Finally, he glanced down, gingerly taking the new napkin in the same hand that held the old. For another moment, he simply held it, before focusing on the metallic taste in the back of his throat. Right. It was brought to his nose, muffling his next response.

"Last time I've eaten something..." His eyes scrunched up, drifting to the side in thought. "...Yesterday, I think. I... can't rest right now."

He wouldn't be so forthcoming, normally. But, his focus was limited, so the truth was the easiest thing to give... Even if said truth was, admittedly, quite troubling.

After a few seconds passed, his demeanor suddenly changed, back to the one he had started with. Eyes partially focused, his expression solidifying into a serious look. Underneath it all, though, his tiredness was still obvious.

"...This isn't important, I... "

What was he here for, again? Right.

"...I need to know if you've found any new evidence. I don't care what it is, I... just need to look at it."

\\ Awesome art! I did apollo circa my last message as a warmup earlier so I suppose I'll send that aswell..

[grandepretresse]

“Oh, wow, I get the whole powering through deal but honestly, how are you alive at this point?”

[ Tarokki still hadn’t had the time to really check her earring’s indentations, and she could still feel it wanting to turn faintly now, she held it in place. There was a general sense of unease that had passed through her entire body, which made her tone seem more aggravated when she’d spoken to Apollo. Combined with her words it sounded as if she was scolding him, which she would have apologised for, were she not feeling so worried, even more tired all of a sudden, antsy. Worst part was she couldn’t exactly pinpoint what had caused the shift, and Tarokki hated not knowing these things.]

“The evidence, yes. Actually a good idea. I’ll let you review it, but you’re going to sit down at my desk and eat something, or your body will eventually just give in and there’s not much investigating you’ll be able to do in that state.“

[ It sounds like scolding once more, concerned scolding for someone she’s only now met instead of just seeing in passing. Even though they hadn’t properly introduced each other to one another, Apollo worked for law enforcement, which made him a colleague. And Tarokki wouldn’t let a colleague wear himself down if she could help it. She initially reaches to grab his arm, but pauses and retracts her hand at once. She didn’t want to invade his personal space, nor did she want to further bring him pain, if the bandages on his forearm and peeking out of his collar were any indication of how badly he was injured underneath them.]

“I think they have snacks in the beverage station cupboard, though I’m not sure they’re anything qualitative… I have some arguably tastier and healthier ones in my desk drawer, too, savoury or sweet. I can make more tea and bring you a glass of water. With those bandages, you probably need even more hydration for your tissues to properly heal.”

[surging-eyes-seeing-au]

The first comment made his expression falter, what looked to be an incredibly weak smile appearing on his face.

"That's... a good question."

It was the story of his life, really. Burning buildings, revolutions, rivers, abandonment, getting hired by a killer, a bombing, head trauma, and now unwilling possession...

He had been through a lot. A lot, that should have killed him. His life did really feel like an anomaly, something that made him question himself sometimes. There wasn't enough focus to think about that now, though. All he could focus on was finding what he needed.

Evidence.

Solid evidence.

Food and a seat, in exchange for looking things over? Obviously, it was a good exchange, if not a bit unbalanced... but all he cared about was what he got. Hell, if one had asked him to put a nail through his hand in exchange for it, he would've probably done it.

"I'll... I'm fine with doing that. You don't need to get me food, but... I'll eat it, I guess. I've been able to do everything for this long, I should be fine..."

Despite the fact that he wasn't even fine to begin with.

He pulled the napkin away from his face after a moment passed, checking the splotches of blood before his focus went to the briefly-extending hand. While his eyes lingered there for a moment, Tarokki's speaking drew his attention upwards soon after. A rather plain reaction was given in response, though there was a little more energy put into it than before. At least it seemed like he was recovering from... whatever happened, earlier.

"Um, well... anything works, really. I'm not picky, and I'm not hungry for anything in particular, right now... And, well, I did get an IV earlier, now that I think about it, so I should be okay for hydration."

The memory of the hospital made him wince a little. There are a lot of warnings we're getting off of you, they had said. Wanted him to stay for more testing and recovery. He denied them, of course.

Speaking on warnings, it really was not clear where the vibes were coming from. But, whatever they had been, they had seemed deadly serious, and incredibly strong. Though, Apollo certainly hadn't been looking the part, to give such a reaction- all he looked was distressed.

It was almost like he was reacting to the vibes, rather than giving them himself.

[grandepretresse]

“You’re the kind of person who likes to push their luck, huh?”

[ A huff. Apollo’s behaviour is eerily familiar to the point it brings unpleasant memories. Tarokki grimaces at the reminder of who he makes her think of, someone she’d rather not dwell thinking about. Stubborn didn’t even start to describe how he was acting right now in regards to his own health, but she doesn’t comment further, and accepts his acquiescence to the food with a small smile as she beckons Apollo towards her desk with a quick gesture of her hand, before making her way there - ten steps away, that is. If she wasn’t so focused on the overall energies surrounding them, as well as his wellbeing - ever the altruist, miss Halia -, Tarokki might have recognised those traits in herself.]

“Do you have any allergies? I have… roasted chickpeas, veggie chips, whole wheat crackers, dark chocolate, and dried fruit.”

[ Rummaging through her desk drawer helps enumerate the various packaged snacks she has in there. She purposely leaves her chair empty for him to sit, standing on the side of her desk as she clicks out of a software which is still mid-render, the computer’s ventilators making an obnoxiously loud whirring sound with how much power the process is consuming. It’s a wonder that she’s able to interact with the various windows on her desktop, and she manages to open the evidence folder. The ones which haven’t been converted into one readable and viewable 3d file have their own folders of pictures from the crime scene.]

“Even with the IV, are you sure you don’t want tea or water?” [ Even moving around the room didn’t lessen the oppressive vibes in the room. When Tarokki looked around, however, it seemed that none of her coworkers who were still working at this hour were affected by them, but Tarokki felt as if she was getting slightly suffocated by the strength of them, even though she couldn’t quite pinpoint the source. Ans Apollo, well… She couldn’t tell if his state was due to the energies in themselves, or his overall physical health and exertion.]

[grandepretresse]

((Weekend is right around the corner, and I'll have far more free time to get to all replies! Happy friday!))

[grandepretresse]

((Replies are going to go live soon! I'll write them back to back so there might be a few at the same time depending on my speed!))

[grandepretresse]

((Weekend is right around the corner, and I'll have far more free time to get to all replies! Happy friday!))