INBOX—

[admonish]

	"You’ve reached Michael, either I’m otherwise engaged or simply missed the call. Leave a message and I will get back to you shortly. Thank you." TEXT • AUDIO • VIDEO • ACTION • OVERFLOW
	CODE CREDIT

Comments

@faithfulservant, @bestcupid (backdated to September)

[admonish]

[ he has no idea how this conversation will go but deems it absolutely necessary. Javert is a curious man with wounds he keeps close to his chest, there is only one angel who is perfectly adapted to managing this task with him.

Cupid. people are at ease with her and her presence is soothing, just as long as she doesn’t start sharing the fact that he bit her. this is why he has invited both of him to his room today, which is decorated rather sparsely with a bed and desk, along with a few spare chairs he managed to procure for the occasion.

there is also an ornate tea set and assortment of treats. look, he has never entertained a human before so he is doing his best here. when the aforementioned time arrives, he crosses the room and opens the door before they are even able to knock with a pleasant smile. ]

I hope the walk here was uneventful for you. Please, come in.

[faithfulservant]

[Javert gave a simple nod in greeting and stepped inside. He had been about to knock, but was interrupted when the door opened. He was confused about the sudden meeting in question, but figured it had to deal with what he discussed earlier. ]

You had wished to see me, monsieur?

[It looked as if there would be another attending as well judging by the amount of chairs that were placed. He took the chair nearest the door as out of habit. He preferred to stay near the back and was only up front when necessary.]

shh they need a brief gentlemanly chat

[admonish]

I did, Inspector Javert, thank you for coming. I hope at least something catches your eye on the table. I’m not accustomed to having humans in my office. If you can think of something else you would rather have, don’t hesitate to mention it.

I find I know very little about you, but an air of mystery suits someone of your occupation. Passing judgment can be liberating at times but, at others, it’s a job that never gives you peace.

[ he lingers next to the door to await the third contributor to this discussion, leaning against the wall with his arms folded. ]

But it leaves me wondering if you’re tormented by the knowledge or a victim of self-doubt. How is your faith these days?

Re: shh they need a brief gentlemanly chat

[faithfulservant]

[Javert couldn't help but tense at the questions directed at him. So this was going to be part of the meeting? Well, he could appreciate the direct approach. However, he also wasn't used to being challenged or questioned on something so personal. Most were too afraid.]

Those are severe questions to ask. However, I can appreciate the direct approach.

[He frowned unsure how to really answer the questions. He disregarded the food not particularly hungry especially with what this conversation was going to mean.]

I've lost faith long ago. I chose to follow the law when I felt that both the church and law conflicted. Only now I'm conflicted over the law. I don't know where to go.

[admonish]

The church and the law will always be at odds when man uses them for his own gain. The church preaches salvation and His Word while doing nefarious things behind the comfort of closed doors. The law is often in the pockets of those willing to pay the right price, targeting those they see as a threat rather than the true criminals.

They can run from their crimes on Earth, but they can hide nothing from His Eyes when the time for their judgement arrives.

[ he gestures idly, but his eyes never leave Javert’s face. whatever he thinks of what he says, he keeps it close to his chest. ]

You’ll be happy to know that isn’t an uncommon thing, losing faith in one's self. Unfortunately, nothing I say here today can restore your faith. When the time comes, I hope you will listen to your heart rather than to the urging of others. The fact that you feel conflicted tells me that you’ve finally opened your eyes.

Was there a catalyst to your crisis of faith? [ a pause, so he can smile at him. ] Don’t feel obligated to reply, your answers should be given freely or not at all.

[faithfulservant]

It's always that way it seems.

[Javert shook his head and got up from his chair to pace. He couldn't was feeling anxious and sitting in the chair made him feel like he was being interrogated. He could feel Michael's gaze on him the entire time.]

I would say there would be two...One was a thief the other was a group of school boys who thought a revolution could pave the way to improve living situation of the poor and lower class.

[admonish]

Just a thief?

[ His attention is drawn more to the option Javert intentionally left vague, but he has not forgotten the second option. ]

Often times, all it takes is one voice to draw attention to a crisis. The issue comes when no one listens to them, but rebellion is not the answer — I would know. It never has been. Those who yearn for a higher power will always walk over the backs of those they deem weaker than themselves. It is a story as old as time, unfortunately.

Which instance is more vivid in your mind, Inspector? The school boys or the thief? Both, I imagine, were desperately seeking their truths with their own hands, as men often do. School boys can only look to their fathers, they study their mannerisms both good and bad and implement them accordingly. A thief, oftentimes, does not steal because he wants to but because it is necessary.

[ And watch Javert he does, like a hawk, even. Those ancient eyes have seen a great deal of good, but they have also witnessed the worst of mankind. Rather than judge him, he waits, eager to understand the man and his story. ]

[faithfulservant]

....The thief. When I transferred and was an inspector I've gotten to know the Mayor had respected him and saw him as a friend... Only to realize it was the same thief that had escaped parole and had disappeared for many years. I felt betrayed when I realized who he was and conflicted.

[As he spoke he wrung his hands and was unable to look at Michael. He only wrung his hands to keep them from trembling. And from time to time his voice trembled and he would pause to regain control.]

He admitted who he was and managed to escape. We met again later in the barricades the boys had built. They found out who I was and planned to kill me, but they let him take me instead. As a reward for helping them. He made the illusion of killing me, but in reality he let me free.

Something I still struggle with. Most would have taken that opportunity to have kill me if given that chance. And he had every right too. I've only seen the worst of man kind having been born and raised in a prison. And I know what a prison can do to a man.

[admonish]

He could have used that friendship to exact his revenge and didn’t. The fact that you felt conflicted is quite telling. If I may, feeling such conflict does not make you a weak man. In fact, I would be willing to argue it makes you the best man for the task. It means, Inspector, unlike many, you cannot be bought.

[ When he notices Javert’s unease, he seems to disappear from his previous spot, appearing in front of him to gently grasp him by the elbow of one arm while tilting his chin up with his free hand. The smile he gives him is understanding, as he tries to lend him some of his strength. ]

In your darkest hour, you were in need of hope. He works in mysterious ways, as the humans often say. When you need it most, He will be there to guide you out of the dark. It takes nothing away from your thief, he sounds like an incredible man. Vengeance is easy to carry out, but I think a true mark of strength is the ability to forgive.

What you needed then wasn’t a punishment, but to see that not everything in the world is terrible. There are beautiful aspects of life and you are no longer in a prison. You can continue to live in the prison of your mind, or you can use this opportunity, as I am, to learn.

Live, Javert, as he intended you to. [ The first time he has used his name without his title, and he speaks it with all the warmth of an old friend. ]

[faithfulservant]

[There are tears in his eyes that he was trying to hide. He wasn't one to cry and it was a long time since he had.

It was strange to openly discuss this with someone he could trust and not be judged. He didn't think he could do this back at home. It's why he chose the route he did.]

I chose to drown myself in the river Seine. I couldn't understand who to believe and trust. Everything was became so muddled. I couldn't trust if anything I had done was correct.

The law or religion was unable to prepare me to deal with someone like the thief.

[admonish]

[ A sin, but he did not call him here today to pick apart his choices in life. He needs guidance, not yet another person adding to his grief. ]

You were failed by society, as many are. As you said, the prison is all you knew, so it stands to reason that you took pride in your work and duties. Your tears are quite telling.

[ Carefully, he reaches up to brush his tears away, producing a handkerchief from his pocket to give to him. ]

I believe that if even one person spoke up, you would not have done that. I told you that I would not judge you, and I meant it. I have.. been in your shoes before. Fighting valiantly for what I believed in no matter the cost, until the cost became too much. Even here, I find doubt creeping in.

[ For an instant, his expression becomes solemn. ]

It wasn’t a thief who shattered my house made of glass, but my brother. The only thing that kept me going was remembering that I had a job to do that, no matter how much it hurt, had to be maintained. My best advice to you would be not to fall back on your old ways, but to pay it forward. The thief saved you for a purpose, Inspector, and I believe you will find it here.

All you have to do is be willing to find it and know that, when you find yourself slipping again, this door will always be open to you — no matter the time of day. You may have felt alone before, but you are not alone here.

[faithfulservant]

[Javert took the handkerchief and used it to dry away the tears and to compose himself. He knew his death was a sin and didn't want pity for it. It's also why he was okay with what ever punishment he was given. He wasn't expecting the acceptance and guidance that Michael was providing.

While he couldn't understand family, he was able to understand the grief of having to do one's job no matter the circumstance. And how it would be to play favoritism or make excuses. It's what brought him here today...

He gave a solemn nod to show he understood, unsure if he was able to speak right now.]

Do you often wonder if you made the right decisions? Not just with your brother... but past experiences?

[admonish]

Often. But if I second guess one thing, I would have to look back at every decision I ever made. I remind myself that what I’ve done, I’ve done for Heaven, and it eases most of my guilt.

Moreover, I can’t afford to doubt, because they look to me for guidance. Some would call it a thankless task, as there will always be those that disagree with me, but I still judge without bias.

[ Carefully, he attempts to lead Javert back to his seat, worried he might suffer another emotional episode. If he is seated, he will not have to worry about him succumbing to anxiety. Humans, he’s noticed, are capable of working themselves into such a frenzy that they lose consciousness. The Inspector doesn’t seem to be cut from that cloth, but it doesn’t hurt to err on the side of caution. ]

I’ve been alive for a very long time, since the beginning, it would be arrogant of me to say every decision of mine was flawless. How does one learn if they are incapable of making mistakes?

[faithfulservant]

Those are the same reasons why I try to not doubt or show empathy. I worried that if I were to show it, people would abuse it and use it against me. And he proceeded to show me grace each time. I just attacked back, the only thing I knew to do.

I often wondered what would have happened if I had gotten him a pardon how things would have been. During the time I had worked with him, he had shown to me he deserved it. I don't even know if he would have taken it.

[It was rare for Javert to show such feelings especially out in the open. He hated showing how he weak he was for such a display already. He allowed Michael to steer him back to his seat. Yet, hearing that mistakes could be made calmed him a little. He still felt guilty.]

[admonish]

Not showing it makes monsters of men, Inspector. It blackens the heart. Even if some would hate you for it, you should always look out for your fellow man. You know that best of all now.

Sometimes, the only thing a person needs is that forgiveness, or for someone to tell them that despite what is going on in their lives, it isn’t their fault. They deserve to be saved. Treat others as you would want to be treated, no one can expect to be treated kindly when they are actively adding to someone’s pain. Respect is earned and it’s invaluable.

[ He rests a hand against his shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze, before taking his seat behind the desk again. ]

People arrive here every day, perhaps you’ll be able to tell him those words yourself. I can give you all of the advice in the world, but only you can help yourself heal. It may sound strange, but have you thought of writing him a letter? Putting a pen to paper, and finally getting those words out, may be helpful.

[faithfulservant]

[Javert frowned and hung his head in shame, knowing that what the other said was true. He was too hard on people and he knew it, but then he didn't know what else to do either as he was never shown. Not till recent. Everything he had done was mostly on his own. He had very little guidance in life.

The idea that Valjean could arrive here frightened him. He couldn't help but flinch a bit at the mention of that prospect.]

I'm terrible with words....I've always been a person of action.

[He hated doing paper work for that reason. He also didn't like to read as it took a long time for him to do so. Often he ended up falling asleep when he did try to read.]

Will I be punished for my sins? [As if being in this world wasn't enough.]

[admonish]

What about dictating them? As it stands, I have an unfortunate amount of free time here. When you find the words, come to my office again and I’ll write them down. All I ask you to do is sign them, so he will know who the envelope is from.

It would save a lot of time for you to deliver a letter that was written ahead of time, and you won’t have to worry about stumbling over your words. At the same time, make sure they are yours, not words you think I may want to hear.

[ Men often try to gain favor when it comes to judgement and, though he doesn’t think Javert will do that, he has to say it. ]

Here? No. When you leave this place? It’s possible, I won’t lie to you about that. Everyone is judged eventually, whether they want to be or not. Worrying about it does nothing to change it. My advice is, as I said before, not to fall back into familiar habits. You’ve been given a chance that not many men get, Inspector.

The chance to be a better man, the one you could have been if you weren’t failed. Take it, and use it wisely.

[faithfulservant]

I...suppose I can try...this letter.

[While he wasn't too keen on the idea, he did understand the approach to it and what Michael was implying. It was just something new and too personal for him. Ink and paper were also just expensive. He tried to use both sparingly as possible.

He gave a nod in answer toward the second explanation. He wasn't sure what to say and really believed at this point only action could show he was trying. But he also didn't want to be fake either. He wanted to be still true to himself. He frowned at the realization.]

How can I still remain true to myself?

blows u a kiss.

[applesolutely]

[ anyway yeah just enjoy a picture of this debacle and the voicemail lucifer leaves bitching about it. love you baby bro!! ]

hmm to keep it or dodge it

[admonish]

[ hopefully he can hear the long suffering sigh through text. god will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. ]

You are and I do. I was distracted, I’m sorry. He would show up when I was finally making progress with Lute.

Do they know he is here? The Sinners.

Nevermind, don’t take your eyes off of him. I will be there shortly.

wowwww.

[applesolutely]

I know, I know, I'm just having a moment for obvious and visible reasons. Love you too.

I'm not sure, for the most part. It seems like he just got here, but he's definitely already trying to kick up ten whole entire ruckuses.

Thanks, Michael. I appreciate it.

nah he’ll keep it

[admonish]

Not surprised. Better to remind him now that a truce is in place, not that I imagine he will follow it.

If he gets angry, we can remind him that he can only blame himself for it. He may not approve of it, but he will obey it, unless he wants to be reminded of the hierarchy the hard way. I will enforce it by any means necessary.

Of course, Lucifer.

[deerlisteners]

A package wrapped cleanly in plain brown paper and tied with an ornate red bow is left outside Michael's foor. Inside are guide books to Heaven, Hell, and the Garden, highlighting all the best places of interest in each, including some truly out of the way locations. Also a pair of sunglasses, and a lovely powder blue aloha shirt, and a bottle of Sazerac.

There's a vintage-style christmas card with a handwritten note inside -- "For the archangel who has everything, except for a clue about to to relax :) Merry Christmas! - ALASTOR"

➥ Holidays

[nestingdevil]

[There's nothing at Michael's door. No package, no note. However, out on the balcony is a large, wooden barrel. The top's been sealed shut with a lock of sorts; its chain thick, heavy, and speckled in rust.]

[A note (with a key taped to the back) has been stuck to the side of it and as a light breeze passes by, it flutters along the edge of the lock. The message is a simple one. Something short, sweet, and scratched into a torn-out piece of paper:]

Blue Eyes

[And maybe he's right to keep it short. Inside the barrel are a few things: a blue leather journal, one suspicious looking letter opener, two bottles of brandy, and a wooden duck.]

[Opening the wooden duck will reveal a thinly rolled sheet of paper with a recipe. A single stain stamps along the edge:]

The first drink I made that brother of yours. Something from home. A Last Word in Resembool. Cut it all in half since he's not really the drinking type.

3/4 ounce gin
3/4 ounce green Chartreuse
3/4 ounce maraschino liqueur
3/4 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
Garnish: brandied cherry, skewered

[The journal, though: that contains a bit more. While the first half of the book is empty, in the back there are notes. A crudely drawn map takes up at least one of the pages, and a few lines have been jotted down on the side:]

Amestris, 1914

[A single town has been circled with an arrow pointing off to a corner:]

Dublith.

[And there are other bits. A few words about Xing being far off to the East, past the desert. A quick scribble about Drachma to the north. But where the map ends and the next sheet begins, there's a longer message; its cross-out(s) and scratch marks a clear indication that this? This isn't exactly what he had in mind.]

[Then again, he's never been a creature for regrets.]

If it ever comes

[A couple blobs of ink smear along the page until finally:]

The deal I made with Luce still stands. Doesn't matter where he went. If he runs into trouble, the Shield will take care of it. That's the thing, Blue Eyes. An equivalent exchange. And since I still have mine, he should have his. That's how it works.

But it doesn't matter. Just keep in mind what I've told you. There's a whole world out there. And there's no such thing as no such thing. So, think it's about time you see what it has to offer, don't you?

P.S. Sorry about your neighbor's railing.

Secrets of Santa

[kuchisake_shojo]

[ Runa doesn't know much about investigating people when she can't just brainwash someone into helping her...

So she does exactly that to a few of the locals. Hope he doesn't mind! Surely a tacky Christmas tie will make everything okay. ]

Merry Christmas hope you like it~

- Runa

Forward Dated to Christmas!!

[supersaver]

[Oh man, this was actually a bit trickier than Ochako expected. She has zero clue what sort of things Michael would like, and actually had to cheat do a bit of research on Christianity to even get the vaguest hint of where to start. Thankfully, that all worked, and she managed to get something she hopes he will enjoy.

So!! On Christmas day, Michael will be alerted by the Hotel staff that he has received a package, and will bring them up to him. One is a small but long box - white with a gold and pale blue ribbon expertly tied around it. Inside, is a handsome brooch that shimmers in the sunlight. Not too big to be gaudy, but not too small to be overlooked - just right for someone to wear proudly with any formal suit.

Next, a much larger box, and this one isn't wrapped at all. It's a sleek, black box with golden etchings of cranes and wispy clouds on it - a rather fancy bento box...and the contents are equally luxurious, too. Multi-tiered, because Ochako read about the Feast of Saint Michael, so he can enjoy the first tray of crisp tempura vegetables and shrimp, some high quality sushi, and and an artistic array of vegetable spring rolls with pickled ginger made to look like a blossoming sakura flower. The second tier is the entree - fluffy seasoned rice with the juiciest and crispest pork cutlet laid over a bed of freshly chopped cabbage. There's also a savory sweet sauce and some lightly boiled broccoli with a drizzle of sesame oil to pair.

And lastly...the third tier is the dessert! As well as some traditional wagashi sweets, there's also a slice of Japanese Christmas cake and some fresh strawberries and blueberries on the side with a sugary glaze. And, of course, a teabag with some rich green tea sitting nicely in a ceramic mug.

A letter is included, and it reads:

Merry Christmas, Michael-san!

It was pretty tricky getting you something I thought you would like, when you got me something so cute and so delicious!! Thank you so, so much for that, by the way, it was so kind...and I love them so much. But I really hope you like what I found - the bento is obviously not hand made, but if you ever want something more, um...homey, I guess, let me know! Just don't be too disappointed when it's not as tasty, or looks way less presentable.

But you can keep and reuse the box as you like!! And the restaurant I got it from even said if you bring it in, they can refill it for a discounted price, too!! So please enjoy...oh! And make sure to have the tea with the cake and sweets, it pairs really well. ♥

Your friend this Holiday,
Uraraka Ochako]