Where the fuck is Klavier, was Kristoph Gavin's first thought after his awakening.

It was uncharacteristic of him to think such a crude thought, but given the circumstances, Kristoph cannot help but to feel irritated. He has a throbbing pain all over his skull, the air felt dirty, and worst of all, Klavier is not here. It would be a bit much for a simple "older brother instinct" except he doesn't have his phone on him nor was there any other phone in sight, his only means of connection to his brother when they were not together. Kristoph can feel himself losing his cool, and is struggling to restrain himself. A good few minutes gave him enough time to think through his situation rationally, rather than recklessly ignoring it to chase after his brother. Kristoph takes a deep breath.

Step one: Assess the current situation

He recognized his surroundings. It was his office no doubt. It was certainly his. His favorite chair was where it was. Pictures of crimes scenes were neatly organized on his desk along with their respective case files. The rug underneath his feet had the same familiar design and the fairly recently installed chandelier was hanging above his head, glistening a warm glow of the afternoon sun.

And yet, it was all wrong.

Although everything that related to his professional job was where it should be, many personal things were gone. The pictures of him and his brother from the vacation last summer were not present in their propers frames. Music sheets and DVDs of his brother's music were gone as well. Even the guitar that Klavier accidentally left behind was not on the couch. It was almost as if Klavier himself never existed, or at the very least, never came here.

On top of that, the law office was incredibly dusty. Much too dusty for Kristoph Gavin's tastes at least. The windows were covered lazily by boards of wood, letting enough light to shine through for Gavin to know where he's stepping. That said, it wasn't much. The switch that was supposed to turn on the lights did not work and it became clear to Kristoph that this building has been abandoned for quite some time.

Kristoph looked back into his memories. He received a text on his phone from Klavier about their next case together. It has been this way since State v. Gramarye. The Gavin Brothers were a formidable truth-seeking duo, setting the ideals of the court system into action, much like the famous Phoenix Wright. This current case was about a murder at the Fey village, where a small girl was brutally murdered next to the river bank. It certainly wasn't a pleasant case, but it nowhere in the job description did it say it was a pleasant career. In order to bring justice, the two brothers accepted the case.

Kristoph remembered heading towards the detention center to meet his client, Maya Fey, the successor of the Kurain Channeling Technique. Kristoph was no expert on this matter, so he was hoping to gain more context of the setting and situation that led to the murder. While thinking about possible lead and questions to ask, Kristoph somehow blanked out at some point. Every time Kristoph tried to remember something about his arrival at the detention center, his head started to freeze and ache.

Wincing in pain, Kristoph reaches for his head and started taking deep breaths. From there he is trying to think of what could possibly happened. Perhaps he has been drugged in the middle of the journey and is now being held captive in some place that resembles his office. Being drugged made sense. The annoying headache could be a symptom, or perhaps he was hit hard on the head. However, what point was there to kidnap him and place him here, especially if he's not even tied up. There isn't even anyone keeping watch as far as Kristoph is concerned. No humans, no cameras. Well, there might be cameras so he figured that he should be careful regardless.

For now, Kristoph decided to investigate. It's a bit strange that a building almost identical to his law offices to here. Who knows what is going outside. The cracks didn't give Kristoph much room to tell much, aside from the fact that it didn't seem different than the normal neighborhood street that normally stood in front of the large window. Unless this place was some kind of replica of the real thing, which seems fairly unlikely, the place was certainly his office building. Dust implies that a long time had past since it was last used, so could it have been possible that he was in a coma or suffered amnesia for some time. If he was in a coma, why was he dumped here, and if he suffered amnesia, what was he doing during the hole in his memory? Kristoph can't help but sigh at the amount of unanswered questions.

It just came to mind that the internet may hold some answers for Kristoph. Gavin Law Offices were rather well off compared to the standard law firm and as a result, had access to rather high-end computers. There was one usually present on his desk, but it didn't seem to be there. Knowing that he had a spare laptop under his bed, he moved to his room upstairs, which was about as orderly as the main office, but similarly just as dusty. (He decided that he may as well live in the same building as his office considering it took up the majority of his life.) It didn't take long to find and he quickly opened it up. However, it didn't do what he expected once he entered the password.

"Incorrect Password. Please try again." At the moment those words showed up, Kristoph assumed he made a typo, but it kept on getting the same results. Did someone hack into his computer? His main computer was missing as well so it isn't unbelievable to assume that his belongings could have been tampered. What would be the goal for this? Perhaps it's to cover their tracks and leave as much information as a mystery. But then why not destroy the entire thing rather than bothering to set up a new password? The actions of these culprits make no sense and Kristoph is quite confident that the police aren't going to make any better sense of it either.

Kristoph thinks back to the amnesia theory. Did he change the password himself at some point? That would make more sense than someone else doing it and although Kristoph doesn't change his password often, especially since it's a spare computer, perhaps past Kristoph was aware of something current Kristoph wasn't, and took precautions. If he did that, he would probably try to make some sort of back up.

Kristoph took this as an opportunity to search his room for more clues. Just like before, he noticed that any mementos that related to his family were gone. He wondered if his past self could have thrown it all away. No, that seemed ridiculous. Why would he ever throw away anything related to Klavier? Even if some falling out were to occur, Kristoph could not believe that he, at some point, were to be angry at Klavier. Yes, if something like that were to occur, it would surely be Kristoph's fault anyways.

The drawers consisted of nothing surprising: clothes, papers, etc. The bookshelf had various law books from different parts of the world. Different viewpoints regarding to the legal system could be useful in Kristoph's eyes. However, there was something off. A small book, contrasting the thick textbooks, was stuck in a gap between the bottom of the 3rd shelf and the top of the books on the 2nd shelf. It appeared to be his notebook, one that records appointments to be exact.

The appointments listed went from the beginning of his law career to some time in April, 2026. A few things were amiss. First off, the words, "Gramarye Trial," were crossed off. Kristoph only crossed off appointments that were cancelled and he was pretty sure that the trial was not cancelled. On top of that, it appeared that there was an appointment with the Mishams not long before the trial, which was a name he did not recognize. The appointments after State v. Gramarye were completely different than what Kristoph was familiar with. Some names like "Phoenix Wright" and "Apollo Justice" stood out, given how strange their names were. Kristoph never recalled meeting Apollo and he never got acquainted with Phoenix that well, although he met him a couple of times. The notebook seemed to imply that he and Phoenix had a stronger relationship since they met several times for seven years straight, until the book cuts off.

The next strange thing was how awkwardly cut off at the words, "Wright's Trial," at the end. Not only is the fact that Phoenix Wright of all people a defendant, but Kristoph was pretty sure that he did not leave his appointment book at this date. If one were to disregard to possibility that a large amount of time had passed, the current day should have been December 20, 2027. A whole year of information is missing from this book, not to mention the large amount of mistakes. However, it bears too many similarities to dismiss this notebook as someone else's. A past version of himself would have no reason to alter the notebook nor would someone from the outside. The notebook cannot be a forgery either because it wouldn't make sense for the culprit to be experienced enough to perfectly replicate his handwriting, yet make a dumb mistake of getting the contents wrong. Something is not right, and Kristoph can't help but to feel that whatever is going on isn't something within the realms of simple logic.

Nevertheless, Kristoph can only search for more clues for now. Next, he peered into the closet. Nothing suspicious until he looked at the shelf above the hangars. There is something reminiscent of a small refrigerator on top. It's quite strange since Kristoph already has a mini refrigerator at the main office and he didn't need another one. Plus, the location was rather unconventional. He opened the chiller and saw a box within it. He took it out.

After letting the box rest on the bureau, Kristoph noticed the markings on the box signifying "danger" and "handle with care." Since the box seemed to have been opened before, Kristoph had little difficulty opening the box with care. Although Kristoph wasn't sure what to expect, out of all the things it could have been, what he saw would never be something that would come to mind.

Poison. More specifically, it were bottles that were labeled to be the slow-acting poison known as "atroquinine." Kristoph had a few cases involving atroquinine poisoning and it's quite clear how effective of a weapon it is. Only a small amount is required to take effect and since it paralyzes the nervous system, the victim won't make much noise. It's incredible lethality would be attractive to a killer if it wasn't so hard to gain. The fact that this poison is here shows that whoever got this either paid a pretty penny to obtain this from the black market, or through some other illegal means. And if Kristoph is truly at his office building, then that would mean the only person who could have this and brought it here was….

No. Kristoph sat down on his bed and mused about the possibilities that could have brought this circumstance. Everything in this building is identical to his own except for the following things: missing items regarding to his family, large amounts of dust found all over the interior, a missing computer along with a mysteriously changed password on his spare, a strange appointment book that didn't align with his own memory, and a box of atroquinine stored in the top shelf of his closet. Kristoph looked back on his previous theories, yet not one lined up with all the evidence. For example, if one were to consider the amnesia theory, it can explain why the password was changed and even the appearance of the poison. However, it doesn't explain very clearly why the precious depictions of his memories with Klavier are gone, considering there is no way Kristoph would throw them out willingly. The strangest piece of evidence is the appointment book. Although finding poison is quite shocking, the appointment book is the only thing that simply cannot be explained. Kristoph cannot think of a reason for anyone, including himself, to change the book or to create another like this. That wasn't the only thing he couldn't explain.

How did he even end up here? Kristoph thought he would find the answer through investigating, but a reason hasn't come up either. Amnesia or no, Kristoph was certainly knocked out for a certain period of time. His office was covered in dust, so some time has to have passed since then. The boards covering the windows suggest that the building hasn't been active either, not even for sale he assumes. If Kristoph was knocked out someplace else, then someone must have dragged his body to this location for some unknown reason. If not, his body would have rested here for a short amount of time, hence the amnesia theory. It would be unlikely for Kristoph to be resting for a long amount of time, like say for a year, since he would be much more out of shape than he is now. Plus, the culprit would have to find means to take care of his body, which would make no sense. Kristoph could feel the simmering frustration seeping out of his skull. It all started with that trip to that client….

Wait. A sudden thought comes to mind.

It's an absurd thought. Kristoph had heard of the most preposterous stories about court before, and this is beyond ridiculous. And yet, the possibility of something supernatural going on made too much sense. His memory cut off the moment he was going to meet a client who supposedly had spiritual powers and the number of contradictions that exist in his office couldn't be explained by any sort of logic Kristoph could think of. If the possibilities were to expand onto the supernatural, a number of ways could be used to explain his current situation.

Kristoph pinched himself to make sure everything isn't just a dream. Everything is too vivid to pass it off as such, even if he happened to be in a coma. Not that he had ever been in a coma before, but for some reason, Kristoph found that explanation to be just as hard to believe as him going through a portal leading to a fantasy world. It's a possibility, he suppose, and it's probably more likely than something fantastical, but if that's not the case, he can't risk the chance that there isn't another way back into the world from before, especially since pinching and slapping doesn't seem to be helping.

Nevertheless, Kristoph has to do something. Staying at the office is only going to take him so far and it doesn't seem like there is much to find. Whether something supernatural is going on or if it's all just a dream is something he can't figure out doing nothing and he needs to see his brother as soon as possible. In this supposedly alternate world, things may not be what it seem and Kristoph existing may catch the eyes of others if he isn't careful. Perhaps he should forge a fake persona? It wouldn't hurt, and judging from the outside, society doesn't seem to differ much from where Kristoph was before.

First destination should be a library or somewhere to gather information. Since the computer at the office isn't going to give him anything thanks to the password, he needs to ascertain his situation a bit more and the approach he must take to solve it. If the situation is what Kristoph's instinct is telling him, he should contact Maya Fey, the girl he was supposed to defend, as she was the only one he knew had any connection with the supernatural. Knowing how to channel the dead may not be helpful directly, but she may hold some clue. It's just a matter of finding her, if it's possible.

Kristoph took the appointment book and placed it in his pocket. There are some pages left, so he can use it to record his information if necessary. Knowing that he doesn't look particularly strange, perhaps more casual clothes would efficiently allow him to blend in with the crowd, maybe hat to extra safe. As Kristoph drifts off thinking about his plans, he hears a noise in the background.

It was the sound of a door opening. Kristoph paled. Who was at the door? Kristoph cursed himself for not checking or locking the door beforehand. He should have anticipated something like this to occur. It's not like him to jump to conclusions and make an oversight like that. Regardless, should he hide? There is no guarantee that the visitors were friendly, and he had no intention to find out. Where should he hide? He can't make too much noise. He hears footsteps and muffled voices downstairs. They're getting closer. Kristoph swiftly ducks under the bed. It's not like his room has many hiding places.

The approaching voices stopped getting louder. At this point, Kristoph can make out what they are saying. If he had to guess, they are located not far from the stairs, although he can't say that his ears are as attuned as his brother. There seems to be two voices. One is unfamiliar. It was loud and clear, yet it didn't quite resemble something a confident spokesperson. The other is unforgettable. It belonged to his brother. Was Klavier down there? Should he get out? But once again, there is no guarantee that the Klavier downstairs was the same Klavier he knew. Pieces of the truth start to come together as Kristoph listened into their conversation. The louder one spoke first.

"You don't have to do this."

"Herr Forehead, you know that isn't the case, ja? It's only a matter of time we came to this place. And don't act like you are doing any better either."

"...keh. Let's just get this over with. The less we stay here, the better."

"Mmm. We have to find that computer, ja? Where do you think he kept it? Can't say I know him enough to say he'll place it somewhere obvious or obscure."

It came to mind that the only computer they could be referring to is the spare one, which was left on top of the bed.

"Ha, can't say I'm surprised, given his character. It would be pretty convenient if people were just honest."

"Secrets exist for a reason, Herr Forehead. The truth we seek are the ones that need to be exposed. No need to get into others privacy with reason, though I can see your point. An honest Kristoph could avoid this whole mess. If I was-"

"Stop. I know what you are going to say and you shouldn't say it. It would never be your fault, no matter how many times you say it."

"..."

There was silence for a few moments. The unfamiliar voice spoke again.

"You're fine Klavier. He's not here and he'll never will again."

"J-ja, I suppose. It's not becoming of me to lose my cool like that. Perhaps he'll hide it in his room. You never went there before, right?"

"Yeah, I never tried to go in there since I didn't want to invade his privacy. Who knows what kinds of things are up there."

The footsteps get louder as the two men move up the stairs. Kristoph's room is just right down the hall and the man himself holds his breath once he hears them only a few feet away from him.

"Hmm, what's this?" Kristoph hears glass clinking.

"This is...atroquinine. Did he really just left it out in the open before he was arrested? He wasn't exactly the type to be so careless."

"Well ja, it is pretty uncharacteristic of him. Perhaps it's just arrogance on his part. No use trying to explain it now that he's still in jail."

"I guess so…. A burglar would have taken it considering atroquinine isn't cheap. Though speaking of carelessness, the laptop is right there."

"Huh. I guess since he was too busy stalking others, he didn't bother paying attention to his own place."

"Didn't you just say that we shouldn't worry about that?"

"I'm not worried, I'm just curious. Who would leave a computer that just happened to have the vital evidence we need out in the open? Makes one wonder if he had some ulterior motive behind this."

"Well, if anything, he could have covered this entire laptop with atroquinine so that we, I don't know, lick our fingers for some reason and die."

"You would think that would break the computer, Herr Forehead. A fairly expensive one in fact."

"Never said it was likely. And stop calling me that."

The man that was certainly identified as Klavier chuckled. Kristoph could hear their movements as the sheets above him shuffled. He sees the visitors' feet right next to the edge of the bed, not far from his face. Kristoph finds it increasingly more difficult to keep in his breath, especially while he is processing the words that are being said.

"Really though, it is quite suspicious. You don't think some burglar just happened to be here when we came in?"

"God Klavier, I don't what to think about the possibility that we are being watched."

"Apologies Forehead. Knowing you, any dose of paranoia would probably drive you mad."

"Since when did paranoia not make anyone go mad? Also, the computer is still on for some reason. Wonder if Mr. Ga- I mean, Kristoph, left it on before he left?"

"If that was the case, the computer would run out of batteries. It has been a year after all after his arrest. Perhaps a burglar really is in this house after all."

"Or the burglar already left while we were fooling around downstairs. I guess being safe is better than being sorry though. We have some time before we leave."

Kristoph couldn't hold his breath longer and breathe out. He silently cursed himself for doing so when they two visitors just started to suspect that they weren't the only ones in this building. If they found him under the bed, there is no way they wouldn't recognize him as their Kristoph, who apparently should be in jail. A criminal. Judging from the atroquinine, it was no petty crime. And the conclusion they will come to is….

A loud crash resounded throughout the halls. The feet of Klavier and the other man ran out of the room, presumably to go downstairs. If they had any thoughts about the noise under the bed, it were eliminated and their attention was immediately directed to the loud crash. Their footsteps fade out and slowly, Kristoph came out the bed.

The poison and the computer are gone, and all that is left are unanswered questions. What kind of person was Kristoph to them? Their tone… they hated him. Yes, he is certain. Klavier despised him. He didn't show it through his voice, but he felt guilty for something. Something that Kristoph was supposedly responsible for. Klavier was certainly innocent. It must have been him.

Disregarding the possibility that the visitors were still within the office building, Kristoph threw his blazer off, smacking the wall. He's tired of thinking. Strange, as he was able to handle this much information before as a lawyer. But now, he wanted to rest. The headache from before is coming back and he can't get his mind to properly function the way it's supposed to. He wasn't supposed feel this much… whatever this is. He wasn't supposed to randomly wander for 20 minutes, knocking down lamps and crushing paper. He wasn't supposed to grab the scissors.

Before he was clearly aware of his surroundings, he was in the bathroom, scissors in hand with the mirror staring in front of him. For the first time in his life, he realized something important.

He realized what a prideful fool he is to not even consider the possibility that he may not be a sane man anymore.