?: Mr. Wright...do you remember what I told you before? About The Dark Age of the Law?

Phoenix: Yes, I do.

?: Perhaps you see now that I was right. We are still in the midst of it. As of now, I am proof of that...

Toxic Turnabout

?: Hmm...the toxins are spreading like a plague now throughout the laboratory. Lamentable perhaps...but it is no concern to me now. As long as she takes the fall, I could not be more content with the situation…

February 11 2029, 9:00 AM

District Court – Defendant Lobby No. 4

Phoenix: (Hmm...another day, another trial. I'm feeling pretty good about this one, but I'm also kind of unnerved at the situation. We're dealing with a case with a familiar premise, but it's also a bit unusual in its own way.)

Athena: Hey Boss, you doing alright? You look a little uneasy…

-Phoenix Wright, the famed defense attorney known throughout most of the world, stood in contemplation alongside a fellow coworker in the silence of the somber defendant lobby. Athena Cykes, a prodigy of an attorney with experience in analytical psychology, was also visibly anxious, but chose to disguise her anxiety as idle exercise, lightly bouncing up and down on the tips of her toes.

Phoenix: Oh, it's nothing you need to be worried about Athena. It's just...I've kind of been bothered by what happened on the night of the crime.

Athena: I know what you mean. It's like something out of a sci-fi thriller, isn't it? Who would do something like that?

Phoenix: Hopefully not our client. This whole fiasco was quite a shock for everyone though, so there's a lot we don't know right now. Think we'll have enough to work with, Athena?

Athena: You know Boss, we've been dealt worse hands! I feel like after all we've been through as a team, there's truly nothing we can't overcome!

Phoenix: Heh, I agree.

?: Mr. Wright? Ms. Cykes? Pardon me…

-Phoenix and Athena turned to look towards their client, who had stood up from the lobby bench. The defendant's name was Anna Teadote. She had the appearance of a post-modern scientist, with a bleached white lab coat worn on top of a long sleeved blouse and a medium length skirt. The most peculiar aspect about her was the fact that she wore a gas mask connected to what appeared to be an oxygen tank on her back.

-Anna Teadote was a chemist and toxicologist that was working for a research laboratory known as AdvaChem Labs at the time of the crime. She had been accused of flooding the facility with a deadly gas on a cold, winter night, causing panic among the other scientists and resulting in the death of the CEO. Since AdvaChem was a relatively small company that not many people had heard of prior to the crime, the news of the gas attack came as a shock to everyone involved, and the media was quick to capitalize on the recent developments.

Teadote: I just want to suggest to you both not to be too worried about me. I've had premonitions about a predicament just like this one.

-Teadote spoke with a noticeable rasp in her voice, most likely a result of her mask.

Phoenix: Ms. Teadote! It's not a problem, ma'am. We're completely devoted to proving your innocence. We're not worried, so you shouldn't be worried either.

Athena: Hey Ms. Teadote. If you don't mind me asking, what's with the gas mask?

-In response to this question, Teadote adjusted her mask and took a quick breath, closing her eyes and nodding in contentment.

Teadote: I am glad that you inquired. This is an artificial respirator, designed by me. I have quite a lot of issues breathing on my own. This device is one of the only things keeping me tethered to the world of the existing.

Athena: Oh! Wow, that...sounds really uncomfortable…

Teadote: It is preferable to the alternatives, and I appreciate not being confined to a hospital bed. When this trial is over, I may work on an updated model that can filter the atmosphere around me, so that I do not have to be concerned about my oxygen being expended.

Phoenix: You sound pretty confident, Ms. Teadote. We're certain that you're innocent. You'll be just fine!

Teadote: Of course I will! I have the renowned defense attorney Phoenix Wright, and the prodigy Athena Cykes as my lawyers! Conditions could not be more ideal!

-Though it could not be seen underneath the mask, Phoenix and Athena could sense their client's smile.

Teadote: Hmm...that being said, where is Mr. Justice?

Athena: Apollo? He'll be in the gallery today. He said something about being there to show his support.

-Apollo Justice was another defense attorney who was part of the Wright Anything Agency, as it were called. Though he was not as experienced as Phoenix, he had many successful cases to his name, almost always seeking out the truth. He had the incredible ability to focus on people and perceive their nervous tics to know if they were lying.

Teadote: Well, I suppose I can always meet him later.

Athena: You're even luckier than you think, Ms. Teadote! The prosecutor for this trial is going to be Robin Newman.

-Phoenix expressed some surprise at Athena's statement, since this fact was not mentioned to him before.

Phoenix: Robin? You mean, the one from Themis Legal Academy?

Athena: Who else would I mean? This is going to be her first trial, in fact! She may be a prosecutor, but her heart's in the right place. So she's not going to badger Ms. Teadote or anything like that, unlike some people…

-As she said this, the A.I. companion worn like a necklace around her neck chimed in.

Widget: [*cough* Mr. Payne *cough*]

Athena: Widget, not in front of Ms. Teadote!

Phoenix: (I feel like I should ask about whatever happened with Mr. Payne being the prosecutor for the case, but maybe it's best not to bring it up. Whatever the reason is, we should thank our lucky stars.)

Athena: Also...guess who's going to be the judge? Go on, guess!

Phoenix: Why do you seem so excited? (If my intuition is correct, she's probably been looking forward to this trial for that reason alone.)

Teadote: I know that glimmer in your eyes. The judge is someone very dear to you, aren't they?

Phoenix: Could it be? Juniper?

-Athena cupped her hands together as a wide grin spread across her face.

Athena: Bingo! Isn't this amazing, Mr. Wright?! She's finally a judge now, and we get to be a part of her first trial!

Phoenix: Ha ha ha. No wonder you're so happy.

Athena: Well, it's just…

-Suddenly, she began tearing up, her smile unwavering. She was always a very emotional person, and she wasn't afraid to be open about it. Juniper Woods had studied to become a judge in the midst of past struggles with legal mishaps, specifically when she was framed and accused of murder not once, but twice. These were incredibly difficult times for Juniper and everyone else involved, but they only served to drive Juniper further in her endeavor to become a judge herself, and to hold fair trials for everyone.

Athena: She's come so far since only a couple years ago...I can't help but be happy for her.

Teadote: *sarcastic* Oh Ms. Cykes, please, my heart cannot handle such compassion!

-Phoenix and Teadote both chuckled as Athena dried her eyes.

Phoenix: Good to see that we have our heads held high. That'll make a difference.

Teadote: One last thing before we begin. Will there be medical personnel close by, as I requested earlier?

Phoenix: Yes ma'am.

Teadote: Wonderful. I just want them there in case...something happens.

Phoenix: It's perfectly understandable. You have a pretty delicate condition, after all.

-Athena punched her fist into her open palm in enthusiasm.

Athena: Alright Boss! Let's do this! It's time to get Cyked!

February 11 2029, 9:00 AM

District Court – Courtroom No. 4

Day 1

Court is now in session

All Rise

-The courtroom was currently humming with the chatter of those seated in the gallery, an all too familiar sound for the defense team. Athena felt some anxiety develop within her, a lingering aftereffect of her old fear of courtrooms, but she quickly shook away those feelings with a quick exhale. Phoenix simply put on a smile, for it was another day, another dollar. Another trial, another tribulation. Teadote sat in the defendant's chair, eyes closed as she contemplated her situation.

-The prosecutor for the trial, Robin Newman, was flipping through some notes, all while wearing a confident smile on her face. She was dressed for the occasion of first trial, sporting a frilly new prosecutor outfit that was (dare she admit it) loaned to her. Robin had recently passed the bar exam and was willing enough to take on a murder case as her first assignment. She did so not so much because she believed the defendant to be guilty, but because she had enough doubts that she felt that she would be able to contribute in discovering the truth.

-Wearing her new robes and with a bright sunflower adorning her hair, Juniper had made her way to the judge's bench, looking out over all of the courtroom. Her eyes quickly scanned the room as she did her best to contain her anxiety, until her eyes met Athena's gaze. Athena gave Juniper a supporting smile and a knowing nod, causing Juniper to respond with a smile of her own. She then lifted her gavel and brought it down onto the sound block, immediately bringing hush to the chatter of the gallery.

Woods: Um...c-court is now in session for the trial of…Anna Teadote.

Phoenix: (Wow. Juniper still looks pretty nervous. But she also looks like she's on top of the world right now!) Your honor, are you feeling alright?

Woods: Oh! Of course, Mr. Wright! It's just...I'm still trying to take it all in. *sigh* My very first trial!

Athena: You got this, Junie! Make this a fair trial!

Widget: [You go girl!]

-Athena clutched at her necklace companion as her face began turning pink.

Athena: Eh he he he...m-move past that…

-Juniper maintained a confident smile despite the blush forming on her own face.

Woods: W-well, anyway, are the defense and prosecution ready?

Phoenix: The defense is ready, your honor!

Newman: The prosecution is R-E-A-D-Y, your honor! LET'S GET THIS STARTED!

Woods: Ha ha, I appreciate the enthusiasm, Ms. Newman. But please keep your shouting to a minimum.

Newman: Of course, your honor! OK, so this is where I get to give my opening statement, correct?

Woods: Why, yes! That's right! Very good Ms. Newman! If you would…

Phoenix: (Looks like everyone's enjoying themselves. I'll have to give it my best as well, for everyone's sake!)

Newman: Alright so, the incident occurred at the AdvaChem research facility. It was pretty late at night too, we'd estimated about...10:30 PM. Everyone that works at AdvaChem works the night shift, so I guess that's no surprise. It was at this time that the facility was flooded with an unidentified poison gas via the ventilation system. That's what all of the scientists told us anyway.

Woods: You mean, the survivors of the incident, right?

Newman: Yes, your honor. They were pretty S-C-A-R-E-D out of their wits, but they all state that they were under lockdown when the poison gas was spreading. I even have an affidavit in this envelope.

-Robin suddenly stopped talking, as if she were expecting a response. The courtroom had become quiet enough to hear a small amount of murmuring.

Woods: ...Um, are you going to submit it as evidence, or…?

Newman: Huh? Oh, uh, y-yeah! Right. I submit this affidavit as evidence for the Court Record!

Scientists' Affidavit added to the Court Record

Woods: Hmm...if I understand the situation, there was only one casualty of the chemical attack, correct?

Newman: Yes, and that casualty was the CEO of AdvaChem, one Edna Shadows. She was the one who ordered the lockdown and alerted the scientists to the gas attack. During the lockdown, all the scientists put on these…

-Robin held up a strange-looking suit that looked like a hazmat suit.

Newman: This is an emergency respirator suit. One of the scientists was nice enough to lend me this one as evidence. It has an oxygen reserve on the back, and it doubles as a hazmat suit to protect the user from contact with toxins. Very sciency, wouldn't you say?

Athena: Well, yes Ms. Newman. I agree that it's very scientific. But wouldn't the victim have had access to these suits as well?

Newman: I was getting to that. Unfortunately, it seems the CEO wasn't able to access her respirator suit in time. I have a photo of the crime scene here, showing the location of the victim's body.

-Robin held up a photo that showed the victim, Edna Shadows, sprawled on the floor of her office in front of the case where the respirator suit was being stored.

Newman: Here's the autopsy report that comes with the photo. Naturally, the cause of death was by poison. More specifically, and I Q-U-O-T-E, "Cardiac arrest due to unidentified nerve agent". Whatever that means. Time of death was between 10:30 pm and 11:00 pm.

Woods: I understand. The court accepts these as evidence.

Respirator Suit added to the Court Record

Autopsy Report added to the Court Record

Phoenix: Ms. Newman, let me just say that you're doing great for your first trial.

-In response to Phoenix's compliment, Robin did a happy little twirl and giggled in an overly feminine manner.

Newman: Hee hee hee! Why thank you, Mr. Wright! You're too kind!

Phoenix: However, you have yet to state why exactly my client has been accused of this crime. Care to inform the court of this?

Newman: Sure thing. That was going to be my next point anyway. We have the so called "murder weapon" in our possession. Take a P-E-E-K!

-A bailiff officer pushed a cart toward the center of the courtroom. On top of the cart was a large glass container with some buttons and a vacuum hose attached to it.

Woods: And what might this be, Ms. Newman?

Newman: This, your honor, is the container that contained the poison gas! It was with this device that the defendant fed the gas into the ventilation system!

-The gallery started to make some commotion at this statement, but veteran that he was, Phoenix was not convinced.

Phoenix: HOLD IT! How do you know my client was the one who used this device? Were her fingerprints on it?

Newman: Of course not. All the scientists at AdvaChem wear gloves, Mr. Wright. So no, we didn't find fingerprints. But we did find glove marks on the cart and the device itself.

Athena: OBJECTION! That's not very decisive evidence then! Any of the scientists could have handled that device!

Newman: OBJECTION!

-Robin had shouted her objection quite loudly, to the point where many people, Juniper included, were startled.

Newman: S-Sorry, that was a little louder than I was aiming for. The thing is, Ms. Cykes, the defendant is the only one whose glove marks would be on the device. Isn't that right, Ms. Teadote?

-Teadote briefly blinked at Robin, realizing that she was being referred to. She stood up, took a deep breath, and walked up to the witness stand.

Teadote: Ms. Newman, was it? If you must make such a bold claim, perhaps it would be best if I were to testify to my actions during the ordeal?

Newman: You want to testify? B-but, I was going to have one of my witnesses come up instead…

Woods: The defendant wants to testify? Um...well, that's quite interesting, to say the least. If the defendant is supposing that she didn't commit the crime, then I believe her testimony is worth listening to. Does the defense have any objections to this?

-Phoenix and Athena looked at each other, silently pondering Teadote's offer for testimony.

Athena: (Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Boss?)

Phoenix: (Ms. Teadote is convinced she didn't commit the crime. But if she was so sure, she wouldn't need to testify in the first place. I think she may have some information that could help us clear her name.)

Phoenix: The defense has no objections.

Newman: OK, this isn't exactly how I planned this, but I think I can work with it. The prosecution has no objections, your honor…

Woods: Very good! Ms. Teadote, please testify about your actions on the night of the crime.

Teadote: Certainly, your honor.

-Witness Testimony: The Night of the Crime-

I was working late that night, working on a formula that I had received from the CEO.

I was using the device you see before you, as per her instructions.

When I finished the procedure, that was when I created the nerve gas! That was not what was supposed to happen!

So I took the nerve gas inside the container and transported it to be safely disposed of.

-End Testimony-

Woods: Hmm...there's a lot to examine here. So you're saying you did create the nerve gas, only it was an accident? And you were trying to dispose of it?

Teadote: Indeed. Of course I was not attempting to create nerve gas. I was trying to create an antivenom.

Phoenix: Antivenom?

Teadote: I was part of a team of scientists tasked to develop an antivenom for a newly discovered species of jellyfish. We received a sample of jellyfish venom a few days ago. The formula I received was written by one of my team members, given to me personally by the CEO, though she would not tell me who wrote it.

Woods: In any case, it would be best to begin the cross-examination in order to discover the truth. Mr. Wright, would you kindly?

-Cross-Examination-

"I was working late that night, working on a formula that I had received from the CEO."

HOLD IT!

Phoenix: So the victim, Edna Shadows, gave you a formula sheet and the container. Why didn't the person who wrote the formula sheet just give it to you themselves?

Teadote: I am not certain. Perhaps they were simply very busy, and asked Ms. Shadows to do them a favor. I did not think much of it at the time.

Newman: OBJECTION! If you ask me, there's too much left up to interpretation. For all we know, the CEO could have written that formula sheet, or even the defendant herself. I have the formula sheet right here, and even though I can't understand a single part of it, you can clearly see that there is no signature or anything like that to show who wrote this formula.

-Robin playfully wagged a finger in the air, exuding an aura of confidence.

Newman: That being said, the victim's fingerprints are on it, so I guess that part of the testimony holds up.

Woods: This formula sheet sounds important then! Ms. Newman, please submit that as evidence!

Newman: Way ahead of you, your honor!

Formula Sheet added to the Court Record

"I was using the device you see before you, as per her instructions."

HOLD IT!

Phoenix: That's a pretty strange container for making antivenom, don't you think.

Teadote: Looking back, it did seem a little strange to me. But it was a demand from the CEO herself; I simply could not refuse.

Newman: OBJECTION! A likely story, Ms. Teadote. You don't need a container that big to make antivenom. It just seems too convenient to say that the CEO asked you to create nerve gas for her.

Phoenix: OBJECTION! No one is claiming that the CEO wanted Ms. Teadote to create nerve gas. For all we know, the victim might have also believed that the formula sheet was instructions for antivenom!

Newman: OBJECTION! That doesn't explain the vacuum hose attachment. Honestly, someone would have caught on. Or maybe everyone working that night was too tired to think that hard.

Phoenix: You're right about the vacuum hose. I can't exactly explain that either.

Newman: Oh, and while we're on the subject of the container, here's surveillance footage of the defendant's lab room on the night of the crime!

-Robin held up a disk containing the supposed footage and went to display it on the courtroom's television screens. The footage showed Teadote using the container and reading from the formula sheet that was laid on a nearby desk. At the fateful moment when the nerve gas was produced, Teadote displayed an expression of horror. At this moment, the footage suddenly cuts off.

Newman: It all looks pretty incriminating, doesn't it? This footage shows clear as D-A-Y that the defendant was the one who created the nerve gas used in the crime!

Athena: OBJECTION! Look at that footage again! That shocked expression tells an entirely different story! Why would the defendant act this way if she was making nerve gas on purpose?

Newman: W-Well...maybe she did! The defendant is telling us that she made the gas from someone's formula sheet. A formula sheet for antivenom. That doesn't look like antivenom to you, does it?

Phoenix: OBJECTION! The defendant used that formula sheet under the assumption that it was the formula for antivenom. If you were following the instructions for making a cake, and you ended up making a hamburger, wouldn't you be surprised?

Newman: Uh...W-H-A-T?

-Phoenix rubbed the back of his head and grinned sheepishly.

Phoenix: Not the best analogy, but I think you understand my point.

Athena: Also, I want to point out something about the footage. It looks like it cuts off suddenly. Care to explain this?

Newman: Right, that. I wasn't sure when to mention this, but that night, there was a building-wide power outage. It was bad enough that it also shut off the security cameras. Power didn't come back on for a good 30 minutes.

Teadote: This is true. When I created the nerve gas, the power went out right then. To say I was in a state of panic is insufficient.

Phoenix: (That lines up with the estimated time of death in the autopsy report. That can't be a coincidence!)

Vacuum Container added to the Court Record

Surveillance Footage added to the Court Record

Teadote: Even though Ms. Shadows ordered a lockdown due to the power outage, I knew I had to dispose of the nerve gas. So I put on a respirator suit as per lockdown procedure and transported the container and cart to the disposal area...or at least that was my intention.

Phoenix: What do you mean, Ms. Teadote?

Teadote: I was making my way to the disposal area, but my memory fails me at this point. I awoke in the ventilation maintenance room somehow, and I wanted to check in on everyone to know that they were alright, however the room was locked from the outside. When the doors were finally unlocked, the police came in and arrested me.

Newman: Ms. Teadote, I appreciate the information you've given the court. But I'm sorry to say, your story doesn't hold up in a lot of areas. Especially that lapse in memory and waking up in the ventilation room. Should we really believe you were trying to reach the disposal room if you ended up in a completely different room?

Teadote: Well, the disposal room and ventilation room are close by each other. Even in the dark, I knew which hallways to take to reach the right room.

Newman: I concede that those rooms are close together. The floor plans of the AdvaChem building prove that. But the fact remains that you ended up in the ventilation room, and were locked in there with the nerve gas container until the police came and arrested you. Now who could have locked you in there I wonder?

Athena: What does this mean, Mr. Wright? Did Teadote really lock herself in the ventilation room...and then forgot she did that?

Phoenix: It seems unlikely. Teadote doesn't look like someone who'd be that forgetful, or do something that foolish. If it were me, I'd have left the building in order to escape. The fact that she was locked in the ventilation room seems important.

AdvaChem Floor Plans added to the Court Record

Athena: Ms. Newman! Who are you suggesting locked Ms. Teadote in the ventilation room?

Newman: The defense seems a little too trusting of the defendant's word. No one locked her in there but herself. She's simply pretending not to remember anything in order to convince us that she intended to go to the disposal room!

Athena: OBJECTION! There's no proof that the defendant intended to go to the ventilation room with the container! The security cameras were all out of commission because of the blackout!

Newman: OBJECTION! That much is true, but have you stopped to wonder why the power was out for so long? Referring back to the floor plans, do you see that little rectangle on the outside?

-Holding up the floor plans, Robin pointed to a spot on the bottom right corner.

Newman: That's the location of an outdoor backup generator. If someone were to activate that generator, the power would come back, just like that. It'd take maybe 5 minutes, at most. It certainly wouldn't take 30 whole minutes. Also, Ms. Teadote, how long would it take you to reach the ventilation room, or the disposal room?

Teadote: Hmm...I must confess that I cannot run, at least not much. My damaged lungs prevent me from performing such strenuous actions. Along with pushing the cart and container, it would have taken me about 10 minutes.

Newman: 10 minutes, huh? Do you see what I'm getting at, defense?

Phoenix: I'm not sure I follow, Ms. Newman…

Newman: With the defendant's walking pace, she wouldn't have gotten to the ventilation room in time before the power came back on. If the security cameras were on while she was committing the crime, that would be B-A-D news for her! So, she had to take matters into her own hands, and prevent the power from coming back on in order to buy herself time!

-Commotion rang through the courtroom once more, prompting Juniper to strike her gavel.

Woods: O-Order! Order in *cough* the court! *cough*

Athena: Junie! I-I mean, your honor! Are you OK?

-Juniper suppressed her sudden coughing fit by slowly breathing into the sunflower on her head. She quickly recovered, but still displayed some nervousness.

Woods: I'm alright. Thank you Thena – I mean, Ms. Cykes. Ms. Newman, I hope you have proof to substantiate your claim!

Newman: I wouldn't be saying these things if I wasn't ready to prove them, your honor! The prosecution would like to call a witness, the one who first attempted to restore power to the facility!

Woods: Does the defense have any objections?

Athena: (Thank you everyone for holding up so well. This could go bad really fast if we're not careful.) The defense has no objections.

Woods: Very well. Please call the witness, Ms. Newman!

Newman: Witness, please state your name and occupation...

Woods: Oh! What happened to your eye?

-The witness standing before the court had a fairly peculiar appearance, electric blue hair resembling sparks, a yellow dress with flickering lights along the length, a large robotic arm in place of her left hand and forearm, and a small metal face plate that covered the left side of her face and housed a robotic eye. She displayed a very energetic and carefree personality as she began to talk.

Tricity: My name's Ellen Tricity! I'm an electrician and a mechanic! Don't mind the metal! They're robotic prostheses!

-Ellen struck an elegant pose while making a "peace" sign with her robotic hand, winking with her right eye.

Tricity: Be shocked before my mechanical beauty!

Newman: Don't mind if I do! WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Woods: Ahem. I'm amazed as well, witness. How long have you had those prostheses?

Tricity: I've had them for a few months. Had a workplace accident at my old summer job. Almost did me in...hey Anna…

Teadote: Hello Ellen…

Woods: You two seem to know each other. Are you coworkers?

Tricity: Hee hee hee hee! Sure, "coworkers". Sorry, I shouldn't be so cheeky about this. She's the one on trial, after all. The thing is...she's my girlfriend!

Athena: Y-Your girlfriend?!

Tricity: Oh zap, right?! She made the prostheses herself actually! That's how we met! I mean, my left eye can't blink anymore, and my hand can't grab eggs without breaking them. The parts aren't perfect...but Anna is!

-Upon saying this, Ellen made a "heart" symbol with her hands, causing Teadote to visibly blush underneath her gas mask. Athena began tearing up at this heartfelt moment amid the tense atmosphere of the courtroom.

Athena: Awww! That was really sweet of her…

Woods: The court appreciates your romance story, Ms. Tricity, but could you please testify to your actions on the night of the crime. You went to restore power to the facility, correct?

Tricity: ...Y-Yeah...I did...I mean...I think so…

Athena: Huh? What was that?

Phoenix: Do you hear something, Athena?

Athena: I definitely do. Hello Discord, my old friend.

Phoenix: She does seem shaken up all of a sudden…

-Witness Testimony(?): Restoring Power-

I-I went to restore power to the building, yeah! I needed to get to the generator!

But I didn't do it, or wait, I almost did! Maybe?

I got there, but I was just such a mess that I – ugh!

-End Testimony-

Woods: Ms. Tricity! Please try to get a hold of yourself!

-Juniper sat with her hands over her mouth, feeling anxiety grow as Ellen's hand began visibly sparking. Ellen was in a state of disarray, hand on her head and robotic eye darting around the room.

Tricity: Oh God, that night was h-horrible! It was like half of me d-died! What happened that night? What did I accomplish?

Discord Level: 100%

Athena: Ugh! She's become a complete mess! Mr. Wright, you know what this means!

Phoenix: It's time for Widget and his Mood Matrix to get to work!

Athena: Ms. Tricity! You look like you desperately need a therapy session. Allow me to help you clear your mind! Let me hear the voice in your heart, loud and clear!

Tricity: Huh? Well, sure I guess that's cool...do your thing, please…

Athena: Your honor, is that alright with you?

Woods: Yes, I will allow it!

Athena: Alright, Widget! Initiating Mood Matrix! Begin the Psycho-Analysis!

-Athena lightly pressed Widget's screen to pull up a holographic projection of the Mood Matrix. After a short boot up process, the program began to take its course, allowing Athena to visualize the things Ellen wanted to say. She knew from experience and practice that the best way to sort out the truth from a cluttered mind was to point out the emotions that seemed out of place.

-Cross-Examination-

I was busy repairing a vending machine that night.

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

Suddenly, the power went out!

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

I made my way to the backup generator outside, but I couldn't start it up!

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

I don't remember anything after that. I think I passed out or something.

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

Athena: Hmm...nothing really stands out. But I'm curious why she seems so happy while fixing the vending machine.

"I was busy repairing a vending machine that night."

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

GOT IT!

Athena: Ms. Tricity, I noticed some happiness in your voice when you talked about repairing a vending machine. I'm curious as to why this is.

Woods: Um...Ms. Cykes? Is this relevant to the case at hand?

Tricity: I mean, I don't mind answering that question, if it's worth anything. Hmm...oh yeah! So, while I was fixing the vending machine, Anna stopped by and talked to me!

Athena: Oh, is that so? Well, that makes sense then! You seem calmer now, as well! I'll update the Mood Matrix now.

Discord Level: 75%

I was busy repairing a vending machine that night, when Anna came by and said hi!

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

A few minutes after she left, the power suddenly went out!

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

I went to Anna's lab room to see if she was alright, but she wasn't there anymore!

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

Athena: This is getting really interesting! I'm sensing multiple unexpected emotions!

Phoenix: We'll address them one at a time then. I understand that Ms. Tricity would be happy to see Ms. Teadote, but why is the Mood Matrix picking up sadness as well?

Athena: You're right! That is pretty strange.

"I was busy repairing a vending machine that night, when Anna came by and said hi!"

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

GOT IT!

Athena: Ms. Tricity, I'm curious about the conversation you had with Ms. Teadote.

Tricity: Conversation?

Athena: You two must have talked, right? And whatever you talked about must have made you a little sad.

Tricity: Oh, that. Well, I'm not sure I should say this. It might...not look good for Anna.

Phoenix: It'll be fine. It's important that you only speak the truth. If Ms. Teadote is innocent, we will see to that!

Tricity: OK then! So...Anna was telling me that she just finished speaking with the CEO. She seemed a little bummed out about something, so I asked her what was wrong. She told me that...the CEO was cutting her salary!

Phoenix: What? Her salary got cut?

Tricity: Yeah! And what's worse, she didn't even get a reason for it! It was just like…

-Ellen made a slashing motion with her robotic arm, imitating the usage of a katana.

Tricity: Slash! There goes your money! It...really sucked! That stupid CEO, what's her problem!

-Ellen was visibly angry now, her robotic hand clenched and her eyes glaring daggers at the floor. Robin was looking over her notes, appearing to be reflecting on the known information so far. Suddenly, her eyes flashed in realization and a smile formed on her face.

Newman: Oh! So that's what her motive was!

Phoenix: Come again, Ms. Newman?

Newman: I have to be honest, all this time, we weren't able to determine a plausible motive for the chemical attack. But Ms. Tricity here provided just the perfect one! You should have told me earlier!

Tricity: What?! No! It didn't seem important at the time, so that's why I didn't tell you!

Newman: But it does make the defendant look pretty guilty, doesn't it? After having her pay cut, she decided right then and there to commit the crime!

Tricity: OHHHHH ZAP!

Discord Level: 50%

-The courtroom began arguing among each other as Ellen stood in complete shock.

Tricity: No! NO! Baby, I'm sorry!

-Juniper slammed the gavel down three times to calm the gallery.

Woods: Order! Order in the court! *cough**cough*

Teadote: HOLD IT! Ms. Newman! You can give me any possible motive you can find, but you have not presented decisive evidence against me! This motive you propose is merely speculation!

Newman: That might change soon enough. I think the court will side with the prosecution once we're done.

Athena: Um, I'm still detecting some discord here. Can we continue with the therapy session, please?

Newman: You're very welcome! I'm excited to see what else will come up!

Phoenix: (Robin seems pretty impressed with herself. She must know something we don't know yet. And I have a feeling Ms. Tricity will fill us in.)

"I went to Anna's lab room to see if she was alright, but she wasn't there anymore!"

Happy, Angry, Sad, Surprised

GOT IT!

Athena: Ms. Tricity, you must have been very scared during the blackout. However, I'm also detecting some anger when you talk about it. What happened to you during that blackout?

Tricity: I'll tell you why I was so scared...and angry. My robot arm and my robot eye...they stopped working when the power went out!

Athena: Your arm and eye stopped working?

Tricity: You heard me right! It was bad enough that it was hard to see in the dark, but I was also blind in one eye and had one functioning arm. Did I mention I'm left-handed?

-Athena stood in thought for a few moments, playing with her moon-shaped earring.

Athena: Do you know what caused your arm to shut down like that?

Tricity: I've had this kind of thing happen before. And I think it was the cause of the blackout as well. Yeah, there's no mistaking it! It could only have been one thing! I got hit with an EMP!

Athena: A-An EMP?!

Phoenix: Um...can someone fill me in? I haven't heard of an EMP before.

Woods: I know what that is! EMP stands for electromagnetic pulse. It causes disruption or damage to electronic equipment, like Ms. Tricity's arm!

Tricity: I couldn't find Anna, but I knew I had to go restart the backup generator as soon as possible. Usually I get it done in a flash, but it was so much harder with my arm disabled!

Newman: Your suspicion is correct, Ms. Tricity! We found a really interesting device during our investigation. The prosecution would like to present some new evidence!

-Robin pulled up a small, purple cylindrical device that appeared to be slightly burned.

Newman: This is what's known as a miniature EMP device. It's kind of like a time bomb that damages machines instead of...well, everything. Guess where we found it?

Phoenix: (Uh oh! I don't like where this is going!)

-Athena started to sweat as a nervous look began forming on her face.

Athena: OK, I'll bite. It was found in Ms. Teadote's lab room, wasn't it?

Newman: As if I had to tell everyone. Naturally, it was found in the defendant's lab room, because she's the only one who would have had any reason to use an EMP device in the first place. What's more, we even found her fingerprints on it. It all falls into place now. The defendant received a pay cut that night, plotted to flood the building with nerve gas, and used the EMP device to cause a blackout in order to hide her tracks.

-Robin wagged her finger again, a confident smile still plastered across her face.

Newman: Of course, she needed to make sure the power would stay off, so she went to the backup generator, where she found her girlfriend trying in vain to restart it. By the way, a scientist claims that they found Ms. Tricity knocked out by the doorway leading outside to the backup generator. I don't need to tell you who did that, do I?

-Athena and Phoenix were both visibly nervous now as the evidence seemed to stack against them.

Phoenix: W-Well, let me ask this then...what was used to knock Ms. Tricity unconscious?

Newman: As it turns out, it was the EMP device yet again. Take a close look at it, and you can see a few strands of hair. Hmm...what a pretty shade of blue!

Athena: Wait, I don't see any…augh!

-Inside the crevices of the spent EMP device, a few strands of blue hair could be seen tangled within.

EMP Device added to the Court Record

Newman: After knocking out Ms. Tricity, the defendant then made her way to the ventilation room to do the dirty deed! She then locked the ventilation room so that no one could interrupt, but that proved to be a short-sighted plan as the police came to unlock the door and arrest her. Given all of this, the prosecution concludes that the culprit of the chemical attack, and therefore the one responsible for the victim's death, can only be the defendant, Ms. Teadote!

-Robin slammed her hands on the prosecutor's bench and pointed defiantly at Phoenix and Athena.

Newman: Can you say, G-U-I-L-T-Y?

Athena: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Discord Level: 0%

Bye Bye

-The gallery began to murmur again, with some of the members expressing concurrence to the prosecution's argument.

Athena: What do we do now, Boss? Things look really bad for Ms. Teadote!

Phoenix: I know this looks bad, but I'm still not convinced. Somehow, I have a feeling that there's a few issues with the story the way Robin tells it.

Athena: What do you mean?

Phoenix: (We need to step back for a second and think about all the evidence we have. Somewhere in Robin's theory, there's a contradiction. And the evidence will bring to light that inconsistency!)

Woods: ...Does the defense have any objections to the prosecution's argument? Because...if not...I'll have to declare my verdict.

Phoenix: The defense has some objections to the prosecution's argument. Ms. Newman has presented a very plausible theory. However, the evidence shows a flaw in that theory. If my client's movements are as Ms. Newman posits, then the decisive evidence, the EMP device, was found in a place where it shouldn't have been!

Newman: What?!

Woods: Mr. Wright, please explain yourself!

Phoenix: The EMP device was found in Ms. Teadote's lab room. However, there is evidence that shows this should not have been the case!

Woods: Then please present this evidence! What evidence shows that the EMP device should not have been in the defendant's lab?

Surveillance Footage

TAKE THAT!

Phoenix: If the court could please review the surveillance footage one more time. This footage is of the defendant's lab room on the night of the crime, which also shows the moment the nerve gas was created. However, what's important to note here is what we don't see!

Athena: ...Oh, I see what you're getting at!

Newman: What are you talking about, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix: If I may ask, Ms. Newman. Where exactly did you find the EMP device in the lab room?

Newman: That's easy! It was right on the desk. You can even see for yourself in the video–

-Robin came to a sudden realization, and in response, screamed in panic.

Phoenix: Perhaps you see the problem now. The EMP device is nowhere to be seen in this footage! So tell me then…

-Phoenix slammed his hands on the defense's bench and pointed his index finger at Robin, a pose that had become widely recognized in the courtroom.

Phoenix: How exactly did the device end up in Ms. Teadote's lab?!

Newman: OBJECTION! Hang on a minute! I can explain that easily! The defendant obviously went back to her lab to hide the EMP device. That's how it ended up on her desk!

Phoenix: OBJECTION! But according to your story, Ms. Teadote never made a trip back to her lab room. Besides, I know for a fact that the EMP device could not have gone off in her lab anyway!

Newman: What?! What makes you say that?

Phoenix: If you pay attention to the end of the surveillance footage, you'll notice that the video stops at almost the exact moment the nerve gas gets created. Most likely, this is due to the EMP blast created by the device. But if the EMP device was inside the lab room at that time, we should have seen it trigger right then and there!

Athena: If I could also add something else, it's dangerous to be in such close proximity to an EMP device when it goes off. At the very least, you'd have to be outside the room it's in to avoid a harmful shock. But in the footage, Ms. Teadote hasn't left the room by the time the EMP goes off!

Phoenix: One last thing to note is the fingerprints left on the device. Ms. Tricity, did you catch a glimpse of the person that knocked you out?

Tricity: Hmm...let me think. I didn't get a clear look at them, but I remember they were wearing one of those emergency respirator suits.

Phoenix: Given the circumstances, it makes no sense for Ms. Teadote to leave fingerprints on something that would incriminate her when she had easy access to both gloves and a respirator suit. And it certainly doesn't make sense for her to carelessly leave an illegal device in her lab room out in the open!

Newman: AWWWWW MAAAAAAAAAAN! MY AWESOME EXPLANATION!

Phoenix: Your honor, the defense argues that the defendant cannot be charged with murder at this time. We demand further insight on the whereabouts of this EMP device at the moment it went off. If we can determine where it was when it was triggered, we can also determine the true culprit, the one who committed the chemical attack!

-The gallery began to chatter once again, with some of the gallery members cheering on the defense, much to the satisfaction of Phoenix and Athena. This feeling was quickly interrupted, however, by one defiant…

OBJECTION!

-Robin was incredibly unnerved now, tightly gripping her arm and sweating profusely. She glanced up at Juniper, who was clutching her wrist and looking back at Robin with genuine concern in her eyes. Robin rubbed the friendship band underneath her sleeve, shut her eyes, and took a deep breath.

Newman: (B-R-E-A-T-H-E, Robin! I'm not gonna faint, not when I'm needed the most! Whatever my next move is, it's to pursue the truth, and nothing short of that!) The prosecution isn't finished, your honor! I would like to present my other witness, the scientist who reported the defendant to the police!

Woods: *sigh* Does the defense have any objections?

Phoenix: (This is likely our only insight on where that EMP device was. Not to mention, all of the other unexplained details.) The defense has no objections.

Woods: Very well. Ms. Newman, please bring in your witness.

Newman: Yeah, uh...witness?

-The new witness was currently preoccupied with his own personal work, standing beside some chemistry equipment and stirring a flask of an unknown chemical with a stirring stick. He had very few noteworthy traits, aside from his grey hair, violet irises and a surgical mask.

Woods: Um...Ms. Newman? Why does the witness have lab equipment with him?

Newman: I apologize, your honor. The witness refused to testify unless he was allowed to use his chemistry equipment. He'll testify though...I hope…

Woods: Ahem! Witness, your name and occupation, please.

?: My name is Dr. Frederick Flask. I am a chemist and inventor at AdvaChem research laboratories. Hmm...how aberrant.

Woods: What is? And what does aberrant mean?

Flask: I mean it is very unusual. Have I inadvertently participated in a mock trial of some sort? What are children doing presiding over the court?

Athena: Children? I'm 20, thank you very much! And you should know better than to talk that way about the prosecutor and judge!

Flask: The prosecutor's youth I can perhaps comprehend, the judge on the other hand...I am not confident I can surmise that her judgment will be impeccable…

-Flask received some heavy glares from both Athena and Robin, while Juniper did her best to maintain her authority.

Woods: I assure you, Mr. Flask, my judgment will be–

CORRECTION!

-Juniper was greatly startled by Flask's sudden booming voice, and was further unnerved when she realized that he was glaring coldly at her.

Flask: That is Dr. Flask to you, your honor. Though I hesitate to refer to you with that title…

Woods: R-Right, Dr. Flask! My apologies! *cough**cough*

Athena: (Hey! Quit pushing Junie around, you arrogant–) Dr. Flask! If you don't behave yourself, we'll have you removed from the courtroom!

Flask: Hmm...that sounds wonderful. It would allow me to return to my work, after all.

Athena: (Damn it! That didn't faze him at all!)

Newman: Dr. Flask, it would be much more worth our time if you stopped bullying the judge and gave the court your testimony. Pretty please?

Flask: Very well. As long as I am able to resume my research in a timely manner, I am compliant.

Newman: T-H-A-N-K-S, Dr. Flask! Now, please testify to the court what you were doing before you reported the defendant to the police.

Phoenix: (This guy seems like trouble, or at the very least unpleasant. Whatever he has to say can't be good for our case.)

-Witness Testimony: Reporting Teadote-

I was working in my lab late that night, when the facility's power suddenly malfunctioned.

The CEO announced a lockdown procedure via the intercom system, so I equipped a respirator suit and remained in my lab.

After a few minutes, I had a peculiar premonition and decided to investigate the ventilation maintenance room.

I saw the defendant, Ms. Teadote, transporting a strange container inside, and I attempted to apprehend her!

Though she had sealed herself inside, I managed to contact the police and report her for her foul misdemeanor.

-End Testimony-

Woods: Well, it seems you have an alibi, at least. How are you so sure that the person you saw was the defendant?

Flask: Basic logical deduction...and some eavesdropping. I overheard Ms. Teadote's conversation with her...partner, the one about her salary being diminished. In the moment I saw her committing the crime, I understood everything.

Athena: (Well, I don't buy it! Something about this guy smells caustic!) Mr. Wright, there's something I've been wondering lately. Have you been thinking about it, too?

Phoenix: Yes, I have. It all just seems too strange. There's only one way to go from here.

Woods: The defense may begin their cross-examination.

-Cross-Examination-

"I was working in my lab late that night, when the facility's power suddenly malfunctioned."

HOLD IT!

Phoenix: You seem awfully calm about something as frightening as a power outage.

Flask: You see, Mr. Attorney, power outages were fairly common at the AdvaChem facility. The building is rather aged, and its electrical infrastructure was not the most updated. In that moment, I did not find it peculiar.

Phoenix: Were you aware that this EMP device is what's responsible for the power outage?

Flask: Hmm...so that is what happened. We have an understanding now.

Phoenix: You also seem weirdly unfazed by this device. Aren't you aware that this kind of device is illegal?

Flask: The defendant committed an illegal act, did she not? I would not find it peculiar that she utilized an illegal device to assist in that.

Phoenix: (Seems like I'm not getting anywhere with this line of questioning. There's definitely something we need to address. Something that'll clear our client of suspicion!)

"Though she had sealed herself inside, I managed to contact the police and report her for her foul misdemeanor."

HOLD IT!

Phoenix: How exactly did she lock herself inside that room?

Flask: The ventilation maintenance room is locked using a special permissions key card. This key card is usually the master key card that the CEO possessed, but it can also be ones that are given to maintenance workers such as Ms. Tricity.

Newman: I have that key card with me right now, actually! Turns out, this is the master key card that the witness is describing. There is a log of it being used on that door on the night of the crime.

Master Key Card added to the Court Record

Athena: The existence of this master key card is very important. The defense asks the witness to add that to his testimony!

Flask: ...I comply.

"She used the master key card from the CEO's office to seal herself inside the ventilation room."

HOLD IT!

Phoenix: Where was this key card found after Ms. Teadote was arrested?

Flask: ...You may ask Ms. Newman that question.

Phoenix: Huh? Why her?

Flask: I am quite engrossed in my newest experiment. Do you know what I am creating, Mr. Attorney?

Phoenix: Witness, please answer my question!

Flask: This is Sodium Hypochlorite. More commonly referred to as "bleach". Care for a sample?

Phoenix: Uh...no thanks! I've had plenty of fluids today!

Newman: *sigh* To answer your question, Mr. Wright, the key card was found in the CEO's office, on her desk.

Phoenix: (Wait! Then...what does that mean? If it was in the CEO's office...that's it!)

Master Key Card updated in the Court Record

Phoenix: (I've got him now! Let's see him try to explain this one!)

"She used the master key card from the CEO's office to seal herself inside the ventilation room."

Master Key Card

OBJECTION!

Phoenix: You can't avoid this question, Mr. Flask!

Flask: CORRECTION! Dr. Flask, Mr. Wright! Must I correct everyone of that distinction every moment?

Phoenix: Dr. Flask, are you certain the defendant locked herself inside the ventilation room?

Flask: I can logically deduce that from my inability to open the door once she was inside. I did not have access to the key card required to unlock the door, after all.

Phoenix: But there's a problem with that story. This master key card was found in the CEO's office. Now, how exactly is that?

Flask: You make no logical sense, Mr. Wright. Explain yourself at once.

Phoenix: I think you should know this as well. When you use a key to lock yourself inside a room, both you and that key should remain in that room. Why then, was the master key card found in the CEO's office? That's a blatant contradiction!

Newman: Oh...OHHHHHHHHHH NOOOOOOOOOOO!

-The gallery began to chatter at this revelation, forcing Juniper to silence them with a slam of her gavel.

Woods: Order in the court! Dr. Flask! How do you explain this contradiction?!

-Flask remained unfazed by Juniper's words, continuing to stir his chemicals.

Flask: I know I am not mistaken. I even perceived the master key card hanging from the front of her respirator suit. Allow me to ponder this...ah, I remember now!

Phoenix: Remember what, Dr. Flask?

Flask: I recall the CEO informing me once before while she was still among the existing. The CEO has access to 2 copies of the master key card. There is no doubt in my mind that Ms. Teadote simply had her hands on the second copy.

Phoenix: OBJECTION! Then why wasn't a key card found at the crime scene? Or is the prosecution not informing me of something?

Newman: I swear, Mr. Wright! We didn't find any key cards at the scene of the crime! But now that you mention it, that would make it impossible for the defendant to...argh! Chief Prosecutor Edgeworth is gonna be so mad at me!

Flask: I can explain that mystery easily. Ms. Teadote simply destroyed the key card and hid the remains. Not very wise of her, in retrospect.

Athena: OBJECTION! That key card was her only way out of that room if it was locked! Why would she do something so foolish?

Flask: Once again, Ms. Teadote is not very wise, at least when it comes to committing criminal acts.

Teadote: HOLD IT! I call defamation! I could very easily commit a crime, I simply choose not to!

Flask: Hmm...should we take that as a confession on your part?

Teadote: *cough* I will stop talking now.

Woods: Aside from the fact that it isn't slander to call someone unwise, the court does not appreciate any rude comments from the witness.

Teadote: Very well, Dr. Flask. Answer me this: How do you know about there being two master key cards? I have only ever heard of one!

Flask: Unlike you, Ms. Teadote, I was in good standing with the CEO. Ms. Shadows was not a very trusting person, so the fact that she trusted me with such private information is a source of pride for me. Shame that you cannot claim the same.

Phoenix: Mr. Flask, er– Dr. Flask, you seem to have a lot of connections with the victim. Tell me, did you meet with her that night?

Flask: Sadly, I did not. I was far too engrossed in my research. If I had known that she would perish that night, I would have made time to speak with her. She was a rather gentle person when she desired to be.

Phoenix: Somehow, I get the feeling you're not being entirely honest, Dr. Flask.

Flask: Your "feelings" are unfounded, Mr. Wright. Please, present proof if you are able to.

Phoenix: See this formula sheet? This was given to the defendant by the victim just before the crime. Do you recognize it?

Flask: ...Allow me to peruse it. Hmm...I see. This is titled as "U.J.A", which is an abbreviation for "Unnamed Jellyfish Antivenom". That was the latest project for my team of scientists.

Phoenix: So you were part of Ms. Teadote's team for that project? Did you type this then?

Flask: CORRECTION! Of course not. That is not the formula for antivenom after all. Are you insinuating something, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix: Oh, I was just wondering. Because if it wasn't you, then it had to have been one of your other team members, or even the victim herself. But if that's true, that means someone at AdvaChem knows how to create nerve gas! Now tell me, why would your scientists need to know that?

Flask: Mr. Wright, are you accusing me of writing a formula for nerve gas? Not that I could not do that, but that is not what I did that night!

Phoenix: Whoever wrote that nerve gas formula obviously bears some ill will towards someone. And if you're part of the team assigned to creating "antivenom", that makes you a suspect!

-Flask responded to this by giving Phoenix a cold, steely glare.

Flask: Then answer this. Do you have proof that it was me who wrote that formula?

Phoenix: ...Not really, no.

Flask: Then I fail to see why we are still on this line of questioning.

Teadote: HOLD IT! Just a second, Flask! This sounds too much like you!

Flask: What are you claiming, Ms. Teadote?

Teadote: You create these sorts of dangerous chemicals all the time! It is not out of the question that you would know how to create something as lethal as nerve gas!

Flask: Ms. Teadote, I would be cautious of what you say in the courtroom. You may inadvertently incriminate yourself.

Woods: Ms. Teadote, what exactly are you talking about?

Flask: Allow me to indulge the court, since there seems to be no concealing it anymore. I warn you Ms. Teadote, you brought this upon all of us.

Teadote: What in the world are you talking about?

Flask: Your honor, I have a confession to make, in regards to AdvaChem as a whole.

Woods: Huh? And what might that be?

Phoenix: (What's this guy doing?)

Newman: (Flask? What are you doing?)

-Flask adjusted his surgical mask and rubbed his wrist before speaking again.

Flask: AdvaChem is not the company it appears to be at first glance. We are a research and development facility, yes. However, we are much more than that, something greater. You see, we produce illegal chemical substances and sell them on the black market!

Phoenix: Wh-Wh-WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!

Athena: HUH?!

Newman: NANIIIIIIIIIIIII?!

-At this moment, the courtroom was in an uproar, with people in the gallery shouting furiously while Juniper attempted in vain to calm them.

Woods: O-Order! Order! Please! *cough**cough**cough*

-Teadote stood with a dumbstruck expression on her face for a few moments before snapping out of it and turning her attention back to Flask.

Teadote: Flask! You–

Flask: Do not attempt to feign innocence in this, Teadote! You were compliant in this ordeal as well! However, you always were our slowest wheel. Hmm...I see now. I know why you did what you did.

Phoenix: What are you saying, Dr. Flask?

Flask: Her motive, Mr. Wright. She wanted out of this operation, but she could not simply quit her occupation. Every scientist at AdvaChem is sworn to secrecy, and potential whistleblowers are swiftly dealt with. She needed to take more drastic measures, and so she flooded the facility with a lethal nerve gas. Does it all make sense to you, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix: (No! I can't believe this!)

Tricity: Hey! Why am I hearing about this now? I just started working at AdvaChem!

Flask: That is true. You may be able to walk free based on that alone. The rest of us are not so fortunate. We will certainly go to prison for this. You especially, Teadote, for you are Ms. Shadows' killer!

Teadote: No! I never–

HOLD IT!

-Athena's voice rang throughout the courtroom, somehow quieting the gallery members and drawing attention to her.

Woods: Ms. Cykes? What is it?

Athena: Do you hear that beeping sound?

Phoenix: Huh? What beeping sound?

Newman: Um, I think it's coming from...Ms. Teadote?

Teadote: Me? What in the–

-Suddenly, the oxygen tank on Teadote's back exploded, leaving a large hole at the top of it and causing her to scream in horror.

Phoenix: Ms. Teadote!

Tricity: Anna!

-Teadote began choking in agony as she struggled to breathe, collapsing onto the floor of the courtroom.

Newman: Oh god! Oh god! What's happening?! I-I'm...I think I'm gonna…

-Robin became overwhelmed by the chaos of the situation and fainted, hitting the floor with a loud thud. The courtroom was in a panic once again, with Juniper desperately trying to take control of the chaos.

Woods: Bailiff! Medic! *cough* Get the defendant oxygen! *cough**cough**cough*

-Juniper was now in terrible distress, coughing uncontrollably as she stepped down from the judge's bench.

Athena: Junie? JUNIE!

-Athena was quick to rush to Juniper's side, and although she was initially held back by bailiff officers, she was allowed to remain by Juniper's side by Juniper's request. Athena brought Juniper close to her and whispered gently as she tried to calm both herself and Juniper. Amid all this, Flask stood unfazed, even going as far as to excuse himself from the courtroom, carrying his lab equipment with him to the lobby.

Phoenix: (Hey! Where do you think you're going? We're not done with you yet! You know too much about AdvaChem, Dr. Flask. We're going to pry the truth out of you, whether you like it or not! Hang in there, Ms. Teadote!)

To Be Continued

Court Record

Attorney's Badge: This is proof of my profession. Without it, nobody would believe that I'm a lawyer. Presenting it usually doesn't do much.

Scientists' Affidavit: The scientists at AdvaChem all state that the CEO ordered an emergency lockdown procedure in light of the blackout and nerve gas attack.

Respirator Suit: A protective suit that is a hybrid of a hazmat suit and a breathing apparatus. Its oxygen tank is easily removed when in need of a fresh supply.

Autopsy Report: 2/10, Time of Death: 10:30PM – 11:00PM, Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest due to unidentified nerve agent

Formula Sheet: An unsigned, typed formula sheet that serves as instructions for creating the supposed nerve gas. Given to the defendant by the victim, as evident by the fingerprints.

Vacuum Container: A container with a vacuum hose attachment that contained the nerve gas and was used to send the gas into the ventilation system.

Surveillance Footage: Surveillance camera footage of the defendant's lab room showing the moment the nerve gas was created before cutting out due to the blackout.

AdvaChem Floor Plans: Floor plans showing the location of the ventilation maintenance room, the defendant's lab room, and the backup generator.

EMP Device: A dangerous device with a timer that was used to cause a blackout. Was also used as a blunt weapon against the electrician. The defendant's fingerprints were found on it.

Master Key Card: A key card owned by the victim that was used to lock the ventilation room. It was found in the CEO's office.

Profiles

Phoenix Wright: Age 36. A defense attorney that fights for those that are unable to defend themselves.

Athena Cykes: Age 20. A defense attorney with experience in analytical psychology. She can listen to people's hearts to learn how they truly feel.

Juniper Woods: Age 20. A very newly appointed judge, who is also the youngest person to receive judgeship. Suffers from coughing fits when she is nervous.

Robin Newman: Age 20. A young prosecutor that recently passed her bar exam. Is also an artist in her spare time.

Anna Teadote: Age 25. A chemist and toxicologist that was working at AdvaChem when she was accused of a chemical attack. She wears an artificial respirator to assist her breathing.

Ellen Tricity: Age 24. An electrician and mechanic that has robotic prostheses. She was attacked when she attempted to restore power to the building.

Frederick Flask: Age 27. A chemist and inventor that works at AdvaChem. He appears to be rather solitary and arrogant.

Edna Shadows: Age 46. The CEO of AdvaChem. She apparently trusted very few people and stayed in her office nearly all the time.

~AUTHOR'S NOTE(5/10/19): Hello there, Timeman63 here! If you know who I am, you most likely know me from my Plants vs Zombies fanfics (to those who are waiting for updates to those fics by the way, I'm editing them off and on. Don't worry, they will come). To the Ace Attorney fanfic community, this is my personal contribution to this collection of incredible and fascinating stories. This story, titled Turnabout Unity, is meant as a non-canon continuation of the main Ace Attorney games, taking place one year after Spirit of Justice (Haven't yet played the game, so there's no mention of its plot at this point). I was very excited to write this first case, and while the process was fun, it also proved to be my most challenging work yet. Choosing the scenario for the first case alone was a brainstorming endeavor, which ultimately resulted in a case of chemical weaponizing, something that I felt was unique for both the canon games and among other fanfics. The story will have chapters that resemble the trials and investigations of the games, but will also feature intermittent chapters that take the time to present the characters and their interactions together (doing this was important to me, as I always felt that the characters of Ace Attorney were the main spotlight). Hope you enjoy this first chapter! I look forward to seeing what people think of it.

Timeman63, logging out!