EXTRA IMPORTANT:
Now that I have completed revisions, I can now mark this story as complete. I added two new chapters so that's why things might look weird as you've noted I've just re-added old chapters. FFN doesn't make it easy to rearrange so, if you're confused as to what's going on that's your explanation!
AN: VERY IMPORTANT PLZ READ!
Here we are people, this is the final juncture! It's been a long journey and I've learned so much about writing in the process. It's crazy that this story is done. That said I hope you enjoy our last hurrah. And hope you're healthy, safe and having a loving day no matter where you are :)
I do have plans for a part two, since I really wanted to use more from AJ and continue to experiment with the results of change.
The next part is a little darker at least in the beginning, so I will more likely than not be posting under the M rating if you want to read on. The sequel is already in development. I'll probably mention it under this story as a reminder.
Haven't decided where to post my bonus chapters- it will either be under this story or MT since they are ideas I had following the fiasco at Turnabout Manor. I always felt like I rushed the build up back then and wanted remedy it. I missed some good practice with relationship building there imo. It would also include a bit more of Simon and Klavier and their friendships with Lyn.
Anyway, thanks so much for your support over the many years. It means so much to me you got no idea :) As always thanks for reading, favoriting, reviewing, following...everything!
TheDragonTale: Well...something like that I have in mind. If you keep reading onto the next part you'll see. I always imagined this failing with the dark law aspect anyhow. For good or bad...let's find out !
DJJ680: We shall see.
TrilbyBard: LOL! That's one way of looking at it. From the worst to just the worse.
OBSERVER01: Yeah, we'll have to keep holding out for Phoenix's rise from the ashes at some point xD
Ktap4321: Oh, with what I have in mind, she'll be nothing like Blackquill, trust me on that one. I liked to think of the Dark Age period that was fueled by two things: Phoenix being seen as a forger and subsequently losing his badge and Blackquill's guilty verdict. With Phoenix avoiding his badge being taken away, it would have been saved. If anything, she'll end up more like Hobo Phoenix.
jh0.0: Thanks! I did my best to get out the feels, since I imagine everyone was under the pressure of what happened. Miracle or defeat? We shall soon find out!
JordanPhoenix: Maybe it was Phoenix's fault that the whole situation did a turnabout lol. Well, at least Trucy has Maya and Pearls now as her family...better than nothing xD. Well, they usually do, but here...who really knows haah.
June 5th, 9:30 AM
Defendant Lobby No. 5
It was showtime.
I had been up early well before the guards took me out of my cell to be delivered to the courthouse. I couldn't exactly sleep, knowing that this was it for me.
Today, it was all finally coming to an end. Couldn't say for sure how I felt.
After a silent journey in a black and white, we arrived at the courthouse. The officers had passed me off to Ray, who already stood in the defendant lobby waiting for me.
Ray gave me a slight nod. "Morning, Lyn."
"Good morning," I replied quietly, shuffling my feet.
"How are you doing?" he asked.
I lifted my chin up to look directly at his stupid face. "What do you think?" I sighed. Shouldn't it be obvious?
The attorney flashed a grin, while extending his arms. "Well, Uncle Ray is available for free hugs-"
I threateningly raised my fist into the air. "Don't even think about it."
"Isn't that a bit extreme?"
I rolled my eyes. "There's only one person I want one from and I guarantee it's not you by a long shot."
"Fair enough." The troll chuckled to himself with a shrug as he adjusted his fedora.
"Though, I'm surprised he's not here by now," I mused aloud pressing my glasses up on my face.
"Well, you saw the guy. He was spent yesterday. Even guys like Miles need sleep."
Ray had a point. I did tell him to rest.
"Anyway...I know you made it clear yesterday, but just to confirm," Ray said, lowering his voice. "You're absolutely certain about going forward with this plea?"
"Yes," I nodded. "I've not changed my mind."
It was a losing battle without another person to pin this on. I had spent the night up thinking.
The best way out was to give in. At least for now. I hadn't seen a better way out...one that would guarantee everyone's safety anyway. So, I felt a little more at peace with this then I had been.
By changing this plea, I felt I had some degree of control over the situation now, weirdly enough. I chose it because it would be better to seek the truth later when enough time had passed.
I could trust what Gumshoe told me. Jail wouldn't be as bad if he pulled some strings for me. He already felt guilty enough about the whole thing, so I was sure he'd come through for me on that front.
I was getting tired of the holding cell so I might as well prep for an actual cell. Then again, I figured I should enjoy the last time in a while outside with people who weren't prisoners or guards.
"...Well, thanks for taking this case," I said arms folded.
The man frowned. "I haven't found anything that can get you out of here so there's no need-"
"Losing or not, you were dumb enough to risk your life on it. Any sane person wouldn't do it. So, I guess I do appreciate it," I pointed.
"Lyn…"
"Can you stop looking so sad?" I asked. "You're supposed to be my lawyer, right? You did what you could and I chose this. So...don't look all serious. It's pissing me off." It had taken a lot for me to put on my brave face today and I wasn't going to lose it because of Ray looking like someone left out in the cold.
It took him a moment before he reacted, but when he did he chuckled. "This reminds me of something Mr. Edgeworth used to tell me."
"He said: 'Never be led by your feelings in a serious situation, but rather your convictions.' "
"Huh?" I scratched the side of my face. "What's that mean?"
"You're still a brat," he smirked. "But to do this, you aren't using your feelings to make this type of choice. You're following your convictions, thinking this would be the right thing to do...even if you want otherwise."
I didn't know what to say to that.
"I don't feel good about it, honestly, but I'm just your lawyer at the end of the day. And I can only do my best to act out what's for your best interests," he said, pressing his hat down on his head. "That said...please allow me the chance to properly defend you."
"...What?" I blinked, and then balled my hand up into a fist. "We've been over this-"
The man shot me an idiotic grin with outstretched arms. "I understand your fears. And after my own investigation yesterday, I know this won't be a winner. But...Uncle Ray doesn't believe in taking things lying down. We might lose today, but we should fight until the end because I believe in your innocence. To do otherwise, would just betray that and you. And well, I have to uphold my own convictions too."
Without warning, I felt the tears starting to well up in my eyes. I quickly turned away. "Are all you lawyers this stupid and sentimental?"
It had to have been a defense attorney thing. Phoenix stupidly proceeded on too. I doubt even if he had been attacked and able to come to court today instead of Ray, he'd so easily back down.
"Yeah, I guess so," he chuckled.
(I guess in the end it doesn't really matter to plead not guilty or guilty so…)
I sighed, wiping my eyes. If he was this determined, there wasn't any point in stopping him. "...Whatever. You can do what you want."
He removed his hat and placed it over his chest. "Thanks. Let's fight til the end."
I nodded halfheartedly, opting to now fix my gaze on a bland painting of some flowers on the wall hanging above the bench. I stared at it until all the colors mixed and merged together like mud in my eyes. Neither of us spoke for some time until the unceremonious opening of a door was heard from a distance.
"...Good morning," they spoke with an unusual soft tone.
"Morning, Miles," Ray said, trying to be a bit more chipper.
I turned around, he looked the same as always though... I met his eyes. The eyes that usually held such certainty and sharpness, had been diluted, with this glaze that just seemed to gloss over everything.
Following suit, I put on my best smile, though it was forced. "Well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes."
"Mm." He looked at me, as though he were searching for something. As for what I had no clue. "How are you...?"
"I guess better now that you're here and not leaving me alone with this bum," I teased.
"I'm really seeing the bratty part you mentioned," Ray said ignoring me and looking at Miles instead.
There was a small, brief upturn of the demon prosecutor's lips before he replied. "How's the case looking?"
"I'll be honest with you and say not so good," Ray shook his head. "But I do have one glimmer hope I'll focus on. I'll be following that scent till the end."
"I see..." Miles sighed as he held onto his arm tightly. "I hope it leads somewhere less abysmal than where we stand."
"You and me both," Ray said matter of fact.
Miles opened his mouth slightly, but closed it shut quickly instead looking at me. With a quick movement, I was buried in his chest. We didn't move for a minute or so, before he slowly released me frowning. "It won't be easy...but hang in there."
"I'll try my best," I nodded. I had little hope about this outcome, so I was mostly prepared for the worst. But...not like sitting there awaiting my fate would be easy as pie.
"Good luck," he said. I guessed addressing both me and Ray. "It's almost time. I'll be watching from the gallery."
Miles looked at me one last time, before reluctantly headed down the hall. Once he was out of hearing range, Ray spoke.
"We're going to need a lot of good luck to pull this off."
It would need to be more than luck...we'd probably need a miracle at this point.
June 5th, 10:00 AM
District Courtroom No. 4
When I entered the courtroom, the gallery was in full swing. The sea of voices, chattering away without a care in the world- how I wished I could be that carefree right now. Being an observer instead of direct participant would have been a dream at this point. From my spot towards the back, I watched Ray. Although he was smirking, he held an air of solemnity today as he stared at the prosecution.
Franziska stood with her eyes closed, whip rolled up as she folded her arms. Whatever she was thinking about, it went deep because she was like that for a while.
The judge made his way to his seat and once comfortable, no made hesitation in slamming his gavel three times, rendering the noisy gallery silent.
"Court is now in session," he said. "Is the defense ready?"
Ray gave a slight nod. "The defense is ready, Your Honor."
"That is good to hear, especially considering the unfortunate circumstances that transpired recently." The judge nodded, but with a slight frown. "Let us wish Mr. Wright a speedy recovery."
The gallery murmured amongst themselves at the mentioning of Phoenix. Him not being here...it made me feel hollow inside. But I tried not to focus on it.
The old man sighed, dwelling on it but opting to move on looking in Franziska's direction. "Is the prosecution ready?"
"Yes," was the very curt reply.
The judge knew not to question it. "Then, let us begin with today's proceedings. Your opening statement?"
She whipped her bench with a glare. "My view has not changed. The Defendant is guilty of both murders," she said, with a small strain in her voice.
"I see," the judge said. "Then has the defense or prosecutor found any answers to the other day's unsolved mysteries?"
"Unfortunately, I was only able to uncover one," Franziska said looking at her notes. "The strange footsteps were a recorded mp3 from a laptop, which was set up to a particular speaker in the restaurant. As to who decided to play this sound, it's unclear as a number of employees use the laptop."
"But why would they need that sound?" blinked the judge. "Wouldn't it be better to leave the regular songs on?"
"Of course," Franziska snorted. "But our criminals like to create a mythos around them, as they must keep up with appearances."
"Criminals these days, the crimes get more and more wild each time I blink." The judge shook his head. "Though, if this is all the prosecution discovered, I'm not sure how to proceed. Does the defense have any new information to add?"
Ray pressed his hat down on his head, and then stretched his arms out as if displaying something grand. "The defense would like to argue a few things. To start...the person who left the listening device, drugged the water for the guard, and the food for the dentist is the shadow."
Franziska responded by whipping him.
"Yeow! Ms. von Karma, no need to be so feisty," he said sweating with his arms raised.
"Fool! That is the exact foolish argument Phoenix Wright made without proof!"
"Do you have proof to back up those claims, Mr. Shields?"
Ray just shrugged his shoulders, though he didn't waver in confidence. "I don't have any evidence...but I have a witness."
The whip happy prosecutor's eyes lit up. "A witness? Who?"
"I'd like to call the waitress who was on duty that night, Connie Hall, to the stand if that's all right with you," Ray said cheekily. "I already invited her in to save you the trouble."
"...I see," Franziska said ruffling one of her sleeves. "I have no objections."
"Very well. Bailiff please bring Ms. Hall to the stand," the judge requested. Within a couple of minutes, the same waitress, though now more disgruntled looking appeared at the stand playing with her notepad and pen.
"Your name and occupation," the prosecution said not missing a beat.
"Tis the time I shall get it proper!" the waitress pointed with her pen. "Thou shalt call me Connie Hall. Nothing but a humble bringer of food, drinks, and checks!"
I felt myself sweating as watched this poor Shakespearean tragedy play out. The gallery went silent. Franziska, Ray, and the judge did as well, only looking at the woman with pity.
But she didn't appear to notice as she flashed a smile. "So what do you think?! I'm trying out a new persona for size for auditions."
"Uh...interesting," Ray said putting his hands up. "Anyway...can I ask you some questions about that night?"
"I guess...though you're not as an attractive costar as Mr. Wright," she said with the sea life cartoons on her apron.
Ray looked deflated, but he didn't have to respond at Ms. Hall started her testimony.
Witness Testimony
-What I Know-
-Like I said before, I was on duty for the private rooms that night
-The only thing I did was take their orders and deliver their food
-And that's all you need to know
My stomach turned, as I leaned forward in my wooden chair. What was the approach here? This was incredibly vague.
I noted that Franziska was holding onto her arm, looking at the woman with a mixture of annoyance and curiosity. Ray looked on, expression not showing any trace of what he was thinking.
"Well...you may begin the cross examination, Mr. Shields," said the judge probably unsure of what to make probably from such a brief testimony.
"Thanks, Your Honor."
Cross Examination
-What I Know-
-Like I said before, I was on duty for the private rooms that night
HOLD IT!
"And it was only you?"
She nodded. "It was only me for the private room area. There were a couple of others, but they were working the front of the bar."
-The only thing I did was take their orders and deliver their food
HOLD IT!
"And to reiterate, no one else, absolutely not a soul was present back there besides you and the guests?"
"Well other than this alleged shadow thing I heard people talk about. I didn't see anyone besides those in the private rooms."
"None of the kitchen staff?" Ray pressed.
Ms. Hall glared at him. "How many times do I have to say it? NO."
-And that's all you need to know
OBJECTION!
"Ms. Hall, how could you forget?" Ray shook his head. "There is definitely one important person the court needs to know about."
"Hm?"
"I'd like to present this to the court," he said as he held up a photo of a woman. It was accepted into the court as evidence allowing everyone to see the image on screen. Now, with a better look the woman was pretty- tanned skin, brown eyes, with thick curly black hair.
"And who is this?" asked the judge.
"This is Rochelle Martina," Ray began. "Besides being a looker, she was the head cook at the Oceanic."
"Yeah, before she suddenly vanished off the face of the earth," grumbled Ms. Hall, her cute little sea creatures on her apron looking pissed.
Franziska hadn't said anything, but she was grimacing.
"Why is this woman important?"
"Well, it's because she is the cause of everything in this case...she is not only the cook, but she's also the shadow!" he said doing quotations around shadow.
The courtroom broke out into loud chatter. The judge's eyes were wide. It took him a moment before he regained composure and reigned in the gallery with his gavel.
"Mr. Shields, this is a grave accusation," he said sternly. "Are you certain the shadow is this woman? Where is your proof?"
"My proof is simple," he said arms outstretched. "There is no proof."
It was Franziska's turn to be confused. "...What are you talking about, you foolish fool?"
He pulled out documents from the stand and read. "You should know as well Ms. von Karma that Ms. Martina had suddenly vanished after the incidents took place at the Oceanic. It was as though she vanished off the face of the earth. Her home was vacant, her phone is off, there is no ATM transactions...not a single paper trail or even an electronic one. The Oceanic hasn't seen or heard from her either. For me, the timing of her sudden and mysterious disappearance can't be a coincidence."
Franziska closed her eyes. "As much as I agree...lack of evidence won't work to convict. The police have been searching for some time and haven't come across her. Even if she were involved, we could not gather anything without her physical presence in court."
I could tell she didn't like saying that, but the judge nodded in agreement. "Unfortunately, this court requires solid proof of her involvement. Coincidence or not. Otherwise..."
Ray leaned forward at the bench grimacing.
"...The defendant's prints were found on both murder weapons," Franziska finished reluctantly. "Even if there was another person involved, the defendant could have been an accomplice who was caught."
It was coming to a head.
Dammit. Because this chick wasn't anywhere to be found, we couldn't drag her in and force a confession out of her. Now the blame had indefinitely fallen squarely on my shoulders.
"The fact still remains that there is proof against the defendant," he shook his head. "Do you have any more conclusive evidence, Mr. Shields?"
Now, the attorney was sweating.
He hadn't said anything in response, he just shoved his hands in his pockets. Franziska looked at him in a mixture of curiosity and dread, but she had nothing to add. But what could she? It seemed like now she was leaning more on my side, but even so there wasn't the necessary evidence. Not even the cops could find this woman.
"Mr. Shields?" asked the judge. "If you don't have anything else to add, I believe I'd like to draw the trial to a close soon."
"I..."he was like a deer stuck in the headlights. I bit my lip as I leaned forward on my chair. He took a breathe as he pushed his hat down on his head.
"My client did not commit these murders. It wouldn't make any sense for her to murder her bodyguard one specifically hired to protect her from any threats. It also wouldn't make sense for her to kill someone whom she believed her friend even if they were in disguise. There was a listening device under the table and if you were to commit murder, why would you leave it there and then not bother taking it with you after completing the deed? The strange footsteps, the piece of cloak in the fireplace, the broken window, and the drugging...along with the journal the victim left behind...all of these factors are too complex for one person to take on. My client was not an accomplice but rather an unwitting pawn in a dark operation...even though there is not strong proof...yet...the defense asserts that one of the true culprits is the woman, Rochelle Martina who has mysteriously disappeared to let my client be a scape goat."
Ray pulled his hat down over his eyes. It was with bated breath we awaited the answer. "...The defense rests, Your Honor," he said.
Shit.
This was it.
This...was really it.
Ray had pushed as far as he could with what he had on hand, even daring to bring up that mystery person. But that was it. We just didn't have enough. And honestly, I didn't expect anything different.
Would it have been different if Phoenix were here? Maybe. Maybe not.
Franziska clutched her shoulder, with visible conflictedness written all over her face. Based on her actions yesterday, I was sure she was having doubts, but like Ray she didn't have the evidence. And while this was a win for her...perhaps it wasn't what she'd hoped for.
"I see." The judge closed his eyes and shook his head. "While it is a compelling argument, there are no new facts or evidence to implicate this Rochelle Martina other than hunches, while there are the defendant's prints on the murder weapons. That said... I believe it is time to deliver the verdict."
HOLD IT!
An all too familiar voice rang out.
"I-who was that?" demanded the judge.
"Mr. Shields," said Miles who was now standing at the witness stand, ignoring the judge. "Just what do you think you're doing?"
"Miles…"
"If you stop here...it's over," he pointed at the scruffy lawyer. "You can't end it now."
"Mr. Edgeworth!" said the judge, with growing annoyance in his voice. "This trial has dragged on long enough. Leave the stand at once or else I will have no choice but to hold you in contempt of court-"
"There must be something else. Anything else you can do," Miles demanded.
"I'm sorry," Ray said, removing his hat and placing it over his chest. "I've done what I could."
"You can't be serious-"
"Bailiff," started the judge.
(No.)
We didn't need to end it like this.
"Miles," I said sharply. He stopped yelling at Ray and turned his attention to me in the back. "That's enough."
"Lyn...you too?" he asked incredulously.
"It's okay," I gave him the best smile I could. "Mr. Shields did everything he could for me. And I... accept this result."
"B-but this isn't right."
"You're right, it's not," I said closing my eyes. "But...if you get thrown out I won't get to say goodbye. That wouldn't be fair either, right?"
Miles gripped his arm tightly, contemplating this choice. Glaring at Ray one last time, he slowly dragged himself away from the stand and back into the crowd in defeat.
I breathed a sigh of relief. There was no way out of this. And I didn't want to go accept my fate alone. I wanted to see him one last time before my freedom was hacked away from me.
"Anyway, as I was saying...it's time to declare the verdict," he paused, looking around to make sure there were no more potential interruptions. "This court declares the defendant, Lyn Doom…"
GUILTY
The gavel slammed down. It's reverberation echoing throughout the court. It was a crushing sound. Maybe because it crushed me. While I could hear the chatter of the spectators in the audience, I could only focus on that sound. It must have been nice to only be watching someone's life collapse underneath them, instead of experiencing it.
Detached from my body, I hadn't noticed that I was being brought back towards the defendant lobby by bailiffs.
June 5th, 10:47 AM
Defendant Lobby No. 5
There was Ray standing. His head was hanging down, looking at the ground. Miles was already there too, scowling.
"Why...you said you'd defend! Why did you give up?"
"I'm sorry. I really am, Miles," my lawyer said with quiet sadness."I followed the trail until the end, but there was nothing else I could find. I gave it my all."
"This is...unbelievable. Unbelievable," Miles said.
The attorney said nothing more, only adjusting the hat on his head.
"Miles, just let it go," I pleaded. I could understand where he was coming from, but taking it out on Ray wasn't going to do anything. It wouldn't change the result.
"Lyn, I don't understand," he turned towards me, red in the face. "You wanted this, didn't you? Is that why you stopped fighting for your innocence? How could you be okay with this? "
"Miles…"
"Tell me."
He was shaking...with anger? Rage? General upset…I had never seen him so explosive. ...It was my fault as usual. It was always my fault. I should have never came here. I should have just stayed home… we wouldn't be here if I just left everything be. Phoenix wouldn't be…
I hugged him tightly, feeling him as best I could.
His heart was pounding. I could feel the stinging behind my eyes. I didn't want to go. I didn't want to do this. I wanted to expunge everything. But it got Phoenix. And if they got him too I…
"I'm sorry. I'm sorry for making things difficult for you. Could you forgive me, Miles?"
He grabbed hold of me so tight, I thought I'd lose air. "Lyn, you know I would...just please. I need an explanation…"
The doors opened up. The bailiffs were coming along with the police. Our time was short.
"Remember...how you said you'd do anything to keep me safe?" I asked, letting the tears fall. "I...wanted to do the same for you."
"What…?" he asked in a barely audible whisper.
"I'm sorry I can't stay with you, especially now. I didn't want to leave, but...it was the best option, for everyone so...please forgive me. Please forgive me for screwing this all up," I sniffed fully allowing the tears to stream down. "I never wanted any of this to happen."
"It's time," I heard from the side of me.
"No…" Miles protested.
I held on for just a little more before I started to pull away.
He tried to hold on more forcefully. "You...this can't be happening…"
But it was done.
I didn't know what was coming next, but it was a done deal. They achieved whatever they wanted from us. From me. They received their guilty verdict. All I could do was hope it was enough.
I did my best to wipe the tears away and put on my best smile. "I know it's hard now, but...surely things will get better...right? We'll find the bad guys eventually."
Right?
If this were the best ending to get that meant everyone else was okay, then I'd do it. Turning my back to Miles, I walked towards the police and extended my arms to them. The cool metal was slapped down upon my wrists with a click. They began to haul me out.
"No! This is a mistake..." Miles protested.
"Ray?" I turned back once more.
The attorney didn't say a word, but looked up at me expectantly.
"...Would please take care of him for me? I can't. And neither can his best friend."
The attorney took his hat off and placed it over his chest. "I'll do my best."
It was the only other thing I could take solace in. And with a nod I accepted my fate and focused on moving forward, no longer looking behind me.
Epilogue
October 6th, 1:45 PM
Prosecutor's Office, Room 1202
(It looks like it's almost time to go pick Trucy up.)
I had about 30 minutes left before I needed to leave my office. This was steadily becoming the new normal. September had taken some time for me to get used to, but I slowly was accepting this new role as best I could. Though, it wasn't just me. Maya and Mr. Shields all had to adjust too. Maya would take Trucy on the weekends and plenty of times Mr. Shields would watch Trucy on the days I wanted to stay later at the office.
I never asked him to, but I did greatly appreciate it. I didn't often associate with children, so as much as I didn't want to admit, at times I was at a loss of how to handle the girl. Lucky for me she was bright and perceptive more mature than most her age, but ultimately she was still a child.
If Lyn were here, I was fairly certain she'd handle the other...necessary parts of child rearing well. The whole mindless fun aspect.
With a sigh, I closed the file on my desk. Maybe instead of coming back here so soon, we should visit her today. It had been a while.
I had no problem visiting frequently, but it was by her own request that I stop coming down as much as I did.
Knock knock.
"Hm?" I wondered who that could be. It was a bit late in the day. "Come in."
The door pushed open, revealing Franziska in the doorway, whip in hand as usual. My body tensed at the sight of her.
"Franziska? What's the occasion?" I asked coolly. She shouldn't have been here. "I thought you were moving your operation abroad."
"I had," she said. "However, the whole matter with Simon Blackquill...that has brought me back."
My stomach turned at the mention of the younger man's name. That whole incident, there just weren't any words for it. It made me feel ill thinking of it.
Simon was a headstrong individual, but definitely not a killer. He would never kill the mentor he spoke of so highly.
"I also," she folded her arms, the whip's hold loosening in her hand. "Wanted to talk."
I cocked my brow. That wasn't like her. If anything, I was usually the one to confront her about issues. "About what?"
"The case with Doom."
I folded my arms. "She was convicted. It's over. There's nothing to discuss." Why would she come over for this? We already discussed this.
Franziska frowned slightly. "It is not like you to lie, little brother. After all, you've been planning on reopening that case, are you not?"
She wasn't wrong. As soon as that case ended I began looking into the options and seeing what it would take to overturn that verdict. "What of it? You already know I didn't agree with that verdict. I want the truth. Nothing more, nothing less," I said, starting to grow impatient.
"Then it means, it has not ended for you. It has continued from June," she pointed out.
I could only tap my fingers against my arm. Honestly, I wished she would just leave me alone. "Franziska, just what do you want? If that's all, please leave me to my own devices. I have to pick Trucy up soon and -"
"I am sorry."
She couldn't bring herself to look me in the eye and say, opting instead to clutch her shoulder, but the fact that she had even said it at all was jarring. It took me a moment to reply. With a sigh, I ran my hand through my hair.
"Franziska...I already told you this wasn't your fault," I said as calmly as I could muster, trying to contain the powder keg inside.
"Miles Edgeworth," she pointed, though it lacked the usual fervor she had. "Do not mistake me for some foolishly foolish fool. I know you well enough to know when you are angry with me."
"I'm not angry," I said sharply, rising from my desk.
"You are," she remarked. "...And I do not blame you."
I dourly turned away from her and looked out of the window instead. Gritting my teeth, I looked down at the city in broad daylight. It was lively, large, excited...free. All things that Lyn should have been, but couldn't be locked in a tiny, oppressive cell. Franziska was correct. I was angry. Of course, it was irrational...of course, I knew full well, she was just doing her job. And yet...
...Here I was at the brink of some new and strange reality. I'd been here for some time, trying to comprehend just what and why this was all happening. But to my avail, I never found any solid answers or conclusions. Just absurdity.
I intentionally tried to ignore it by throwing myself into work, visiting Wright at the hospital, looking after Trucy, and looking for any new evidence to reopen that damned case. It was the only thing I could do to regain some sort of footing and sanity in my world that had been turned upside down over night. Seeing Franziska was just another reminder of back then, of how everything had turned out for the worst.
We had spoke about it briefly once after it all transpired, but I had no desire to speak at length about it.
"...I just do not want it to be like what happened with Papa," she spoke softly.
I ran a hand through my hair. Of course, that was nothing like this. That was harrowing for the both of us, and a topic difficult to broach for such a long period of time that it put a distance between us.
"It won't be like that," I said, gripping my arm tightly. "I…"
Since meeting Wright and dealing with Lyn especially, my life had been fraught with emotional instability. Peace, calm, over confidence...by now these were simply relics of the past.
I found myself trying to sort through all these different situations, complicated situations I wasn't prepared for. I couldn't battle these things with logic or intellect.
Yet, I had to move forward in some way. I couldn't sit around feeling sorry for myself. I had to bring out the truth. I needed to get justice for them both. To not do that was to fail and just show even more fragility.
"...don't want to lose anymore."
Yes, that was it. I couldn't keep losing people like this. The two people closest to me had just slipped through my fingers like grains of sand. I couldn't bear it. I didn't want to accept it. I didn't want to accept that I had no control over any of it.
Because if I did, just where did it leave me?
To blame Franziska, Mr. Shields or the police...it just made me feel better than powerless at least. It allowed me to not dwell in grief daily.
With some courage, I managed to face her. "It's beyond difficult to go on and act like this is all...acceptable. Especially when the culprits...the truth is still out there."
Franziska's gaze softened slightly. "The result of that trial...was not an ideal win. I am bothered by it as well as Simon Blackquill's trial. There is a possibility the two may be linked."
"Linked how...?"
"I have reviewed both cases many times and it seems as if there are invisible strings attached to the defendants..." she raised her whip over her head with disgust. "They both wanted to fight for themselves at first...but then they both confessed suddenly to the crimes. Why?"
I recalled Simon's trial and how adamantly that child protested his conviction at the stand. And I remembered how they were together as we encountered them on holiday in London. "Perhaps it was an attempt to protect that girl."
"I am inclined to agree with the speculation," she folded her arms and shut her eyes for a moment. "I believe the same thing for Doom's case."
Silent, I recalled one of the last things she said to me before the police took her away...something about wanting to protect me, but...
"Detective Badd was tipped off that there might be some infiltration in the police department."
"What?" I blinked.
"It is pathetic," she said her nose crinkling. "Though, it is part of the reason why I stopped by. It is your choice to accompany me as I receive his report on the alleged infiltration since it could relate to both cases."
And in turn...they both could relate to Seeker.
"When do we go?" I asked.
October 6th, 2:56 PM
Scarlett Bay Correctional Facility
"Hey, are you listening to me?" the pale beauty with long brown hair asked me.
"Huh? Sorry Lana, I totally zoned out," I replied somewhat sheepishly under the rays of the sun out in the vast courtyard.
The taller woman frowned, lines sinking into the middle of her forehead. "Lyn, it's not a good time for that. If I wasn't here with you and spaced out, that would make you a pretty open target. You know for someone like Heather..."
I sighed as I rubbed my black eye remembering this morning's confrontation in the canteen. "Yeah, you don't have to remind me of that bitch. At least, I have a solution planned for the next time." I smirked to myself.
"Oh?" Lana asked curiously. "I doubt you'll approach her head on."
"Naw, I may have picked up a nice shiv, but I won't need that to defend myself...you and your negotiation tactics you taught me are being put to use," I hummed happily.
"Looking forward to seeing that play out," she chuckled slightly. " At least my time with Gant ultimately had its uses."
"Besides..." I began. "I'm still doing better than Iris, anyway."
Lana snorted at the mention of the girl's name. "Honestly, I don't know how she'll survive here. You and I won't always be around to back her up when those bullies start aggravating her."
It was true. Maybe it was from all the times she went along with Dahlia or her mother, but at best Iris only seemed capable of charming others. But if that didn't work, she was a sitting duck most times. Without someone else's plan, she failed to stand up for herself. It was like looking after a little lost sheep in a pack of wolves.
"How long did it take for you to get used to this?" I asked her.
"Hm, honestly, maybe about 5 months. Of course it wasn't really easy, but it was actually the best I felt in years since I felt like I could be my own person again," she mused placing her arms behind her back. "I had to prove my mettle in here at the start more so than others because of the whole chief prosecutor title. But as you can see, I'm still standing here."
It was more than that, I noted as she stood over me with a smirk. In the game she looked as fun as a dead fish, but I guessed it really was only cause of the blackmail. In here, she was probably one of the nicest convicts around, even going as far to take newbies like me under her wing, showing us all the ropes. And though she was nice about that, she wouldn't hesitate to brawl if need be.
...And let me tell you, you didn't want to fight her.
Neither of us spoke for some time, just opting to stand under the limited light of the sun. We didn't get too much time out and about so it was well appreciated.
Just another day behind bars.
I never would have thought that in a million years, I'd be thinking that at a jail. But being sent to another reality which was video game was probably stranger, no doubt.
Since that trial, the police booked me and shipped me down to this women's prison not too far away from downtown LA. I didn't know what to expect. But, honestly? Prison was just like high school all over again, except with the looming threat of getting a beat down...and I supposed the death penalty. Otherwise, they had us all wear orange jumpers and run on a timer. Meal times, shower times, wake up and sleep times, and free time these things were all planned and scheduled for us pretty much. The only time things were a little different were if some prisoners had jobs or managed to get into an educational program to better themselves.
Otherwise, the jail was like one big vicious popularity contest between the most beautiful, toughest, and smartest.
And if you couldn't align yourself early on with a group, you'd be seen as an easy target. You had to establish your dominance quick and make a name for yourself out here, especially if you were once a part of the law enforcement.
While my cell was comfortable enough like promised, adjusting to life outside the cell had been...challenging to say the least.
"Attention inmates, it is time for free time," one of the guards announced over the speakers on the courtyard.
On cue, I saw a lot of other inmates headed back inside the prison, heavily watched by guards. About half of us remained on the courtyard.
"What are you going to do now?" I asked.
"Well...Jake's coming over for a visit today. Think I'm going to go back to my room and mentally prepare myself," she said with a wink.
Oh boy. Jake had been coming by to visit her for some time, under the guise of friends. Though, apparently, the flame they had for each other never really quite died out. "Oh, so you guys patched stuff up between you?"
A pale tint of pink appeared upon her cheeks, as she awkwardly turned her back towards me. "I-It's nothing like that. It's simply casual for the time being. Though once I'm released..."
(Well someone would be getting handsy, huh?)
She faced me again, face still flushed, but not teasing a small smile. "But that's not as interesting about you and Mr. Edgeworth."
I groaned. I didn't mind divulging about it. It's just that things lately...
Probably catching my grimace, she placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. "You shouldn't be so hard on him."
"I don't mean to be, but..." It pained me more often than not to see him when he came to visit. He'd just be working more and more, trying to carry all of this shit on his own. And because of that he just felt farther and farther away. I tried my best to keep positive for his sake, to not be another burden but it all starts to take a toll on you at some point.
He'd come by fairly often, but I was usually happier when he took breaks from visiting because it at least meant a break from me watching him deteriorate emotionally. All for the choice that I made.
"We all process events differently and little can be done about that," she said thoughtfully. I had already described my tale of how I ended up here...minus the mind boggling bits about existing in another universe entirely, of course. "...But let me know if you ever want to talk."
"Thanks," I muttered.
"I'll be off," she said giving my shoulder a squeeze before she walked off into the distance back inside.
Sighing, I scratched my cheek. There really wasn't much to do outside besides play basketball or lift weights. I wasn't too fond of either idea right now. And since I had no one else to talk to, I also decided to return to my room.
I took my time walking from the dirt and concrete stretch of ground, before passing the guards through the massive metallic double doors leading back inside. From there I was patted down for drugs and weapons. Since nothing was found, I could continue back to my cell block. After seeing so much muted gray and blues for walls and doors, you'd think you'd get lost, but being here for so long it bothered me less and less. Doing my best to avoid guards or other inmates, within 10 minutes I returned to my cell.
It was the same size as all the other cells, but I had a few special privileges- like my own little library, for example. Having nothing else to do, I decided to read another Dashielle Hammet book. This time The Maltese Falcon. These stories always made me feel better and provided my own little escape from the harsh world outside for a little while.
I read for some time, until a couple of guards showed up outside my room claiming I had a visitor. Annoyed, I left the book on my cramped desk face down. I hoped I would actually enjoy this visit...
After the trek over, they brought me into the visitation room. It was basically the same as the detention center, with a pane of glass separating us prisoners from the free world, some guards outside, and the table and chairs to lounge at. Slowly, I raised my head to look through the glass...
I exhaled out of relief, seeing the familiar figure in front of me. The edges of my lips curled upward.
"Huh? You're actually happy to see me?" Raymond asked me. "What's Miles going to say about that?"
"Oh, shut up," I rolled my eyes. "The real question is what's Kate gonna do when I tell her you've been flirting with other ladies in jail?"
"What ladies?" he asked turning himself all around, looking left and right. "None here so to speak."
"You're lucky you're behind a pane of glass," I said pressing my glasses up. "My fist has a few things it'd like to say to your face."
"Hey, hey, hey Uncle Ray is all about peace and hugs," he said, raising his hands up.
Ray had been visiting me a lot too. He'd clearly been dismayed by how the whole thing turned out even though he tried to help me in the best way possible. Honestly, it made me sorta happy he showed up since I could feel a little normal again. I could at least laugh around him genuinely. Everyone else who showed up...they meant well but it just made me feel more depressed.
"So what brings you down to my humble abode?" I asked, tilting my head. "I didn't think I'd see you around any time soon."
"I was just passing through," he said arms outstretched. "Though, I figured it'd be best if I gave you a heads up about what was coming next too."
"Huh?" I cocked my head in confusion. "What's up? You know I don't care for cryptic bullshit or beating around the bush, so spit it out."
He cleared his throat. "So, there's a lead for your case. It's not fully grounded yet, but it sounds like whoever set you up is lurking in the police department...you'd already know that though, wouldn't you?"
I folded my arms in response. "What's your point? Not like I know who exactly it is."
"Miles is going to come down here and grill you without a doubt, since he told me about it," he pointed. "Just a far warning. You know how he gets."
This time another sigh escaped my lips, this time out of tiredness. "It'll be a waste of time, since I won't go into detail. I don't even know who's really pulling all the strings there to begin with."
"Lyn..." The attorney, gave me a harsher gaze than usual. "You're going to have to spill what you know."
I cast my gaze at the table in front of me. There wasn't anyway I'd sell out Gumshoe. They'd all get the wrong idea and blame him for everything...plus it might draw more attention from those unsavory people onto him. "You'd have to torture me first."
"But why? You're safe in here now-"
I shook my head. "It's not about me. It's about...the larger implications." Yes, after what I've done I started thinking about that. What it would mean if I took one of course of action over another. Did something or nothing. Being in jail gave me a lot of time to think.
"You all are a smart bunch. I'm sure you'll figure it out without me anyway," I shrugged. "Anyway, how's life on the outside?"
Ray sighed, knowing this line of inquiry was a dead end. "It's as good as it gets out in LA. I've had a couple of cases here and there, but I've been babysitting a little more often than not."
"Oh? How's that working out? You're as silly as a kid so I'm sure it'd be easy for you," I said dryly.
He rolled his eyes, but there was clear amusement behind them. "Trucy isn't the problem- Miles is."
I snorted. "What?"
"You wouldn't believe all the times I've had to force him to get some sleep or do something that wasn't-" he sighed as he pressed his hat on his head. "Of course, I can't replace his friend or you, but..."
The attorney looked pensive as he was looking at me, but not looking at me. It was as if he was looking far out, through me, beyond me to some other point in time. "...You know, it's just like when Mr. Edgeworth died. I couldn't do much for Miles at the time, and then von Karma got his hands on him. I'm trying to help as best as I can now, but it doesn't feel like it's enough."
He frowned.
"Well...not like it's your fault. He always seemed like the type to want to do everything by himself," I said. "I think just being there is enough." Since I couldn't even do that.
"I hope so," Ray said mildly defeated.
"You know, I'm sure Mr. Egdeworth would really appreciate it," I said with a small grin. "He'd probably be happy that Miles had some friends at all."
That drew out a chuckle. "You might be right about that. He would always fuss about him not spending enough time with other kids...guess Uncle Ray is good for something after all."
We moved on to talk about some more lighthearted times. Of course, it took me going to jail to have some sort of rapport with him to hear about all the adventures he had with Gregory Edgeworth as his assistant.
October 7th, 3:31 PM
Scarlett Bay Correctional Facility
I closed my book with a sigh as I was being led by a guard to see some visitors. I knew for a fact it wasn't Ray coming- he wouldn't show up so soon again. So, I knew who was probably coming and I had to put on my best upbeat mood. Not like I wasn't happy to see them, but I hoped that he'd be in higher spirits.
In no time I was led into the room, taking my seat at the table. Sure enough, my hunch was correct, though it seemed there was a plus one.
"Hi Aunty! How are you doing inside the big house these days?"
I couldn't help but laugh at that. Trucy had an undeniable spunkiness to her that never failed to lift my mood. "Not too bad," I grinned. "They can't hold me down in here."
"That's the spirit! You show em who's boss!" she said tilting her hat.
"How are you doing lately?" Miles asked.
"Never better," I said adjusting my glasses. "Just the usual in here, hanging out with Lana mostly."
I caught him squinting at me. "What happened to your eye?"
"Oh, that old thing?" Beads of sweat began forming atop my head. "It's nothing really. Just got into a little scuffle. Happens in here a lot."
He was frowning now. "Lyn..."
"Hey, hey, don't sweat it. Nothing I can't handle. As you can see I'm still alright," I said emphatically putting my hands up.
Trucy covered her mouth with her hand. "They can't mess with Aunty like that!"
Then Mr. Hat sprung out from behind her. "Yeah, that's right! You gotta give em the old 1 2!"
Miles shook his head. "I shouldn't have given you that coffee ice cream."
"Aw, but it was so good!" she pouted. "With that I'll be ready for real coffee soon."
"Why would you do that to yourself?" I asked him. "Trucy is already one ball of energy."
He muttered something about it being the only flavor available at the nearby corner store. I snorted, holding back my laugh. Wasn't expecting Trucy to run him into the ground, but it seemed like the process was starting.
"Anyway..." he started. "I came to ask you about something."
"Hm?" I titled my head, pretending not to know. "About what?"
"It's about your case. Detective Badd said you had tried to warn him about some interference in the police department during that time."
"...Can't say I really remember," I said shrugging.
The gray eyes narrowed at me before he pointed an accusing finger. "That's nonsense and we both know it. You even went as far to hide it with code. What really happened back then?"
I figured this might happen. But I decided I wasn't going to back down. I leaned forward in my chair. "All bets are off."
"What...?"
"The old man was just hearing things probably or misremembering," I said removing my glasses and wiping them on my shirt. "His word isn't much proof."
"He let me see the tapes of your last talk with Wright, Lyn. That didn't look good," he said tapping a finger on his now folded arms. "On top of that, it does seem like there is some strange activity happening within the department...as some evidence seems to be mysteriously disappearing or appearing out of thin air."
I shrugged it off, yet again. At this point it wasn't really my problem or concern. The Dark Age was starting here and now. "Sorry. You'll probably be better off asking someone else."
This time Miles gritted his teeth. "Lyn...why do you do this? Why don't you tell me what you know so we can get you out of here?"
"Because I value your life."
"Wh-"
"Aunty Lyn..." Trucy's head tilted downward as she wore a frown. "You're scared, aren't you?"
Shit. I forget she could perceive well.
"Visiting time's up, I believe," I said standing up, listening to the aggravating scraping of the metallic chair against the gray tiled floor.
"Lyn, you know I'll be back," Miles said staring me down.
"Of course," I said adjusting my glasses. "But I suggest you search for information elsewhere. Since you believe there's fishy behavior in the police department, why not look there? You'll be sure to find something there probably."
He was burning a hole through my head, but like before if he found out about what really happened...I'm not sure what they'd do. If they would do anything. I didn't know if I was still being watched or not. And even on the off chance I wasn't and this was their endgame, Gumshoe would be in deep shit if Miles found out his hand in the whole fiasco...
"...Bye Aunty Lyn. Don't let the bad guys get you!" Trucy said breaking the mounting tension between me and Miles.
I smiled. "I will. Keep being a good help to Uncle Miles, okay? He needs it far more than he imagines." At that he raised a brow, but said nothing.
"Okay! Me and Mr. Hat will our best!" she said putting her hands on her hips.
"Tata for now," I waved, before I turned my back on them and passed through the door in the back. The guards were waiting for me outside and gave me a quick pat down for any illegal materials before escorting me back to my cell.
Being out of the room, I could breathe easy again. This was the last day this week for visitations so, if he wanted to bug me about this again it would have to be over the phone. And I doubted he would call, since he preferred to visit in person. Therefore, it meant I was home free...
Or at least that's what I believed.
At the time I didn't know it, but that day was one of the last few days I had of peace, security...even certainty. For the past few months I had found myself wishing to get out of the cell and rejoin society. But after what came next...I grew to miss jail. Jail was a far better alternative than what awaited outside the prison doors.
Evidence:
Attorney's badge: It's my all-important badge. It shows that I am a defense attorney.
Autopsy Report #1:For Kevin Hutchinson. Estimated time of death 9:05 PM. Cause of death slit throat. Died within 1 minute. Traces of benzodiazepine discovered in system.
Autopsy Report #2: For Kristoph Gavin. Estimated time of death 9:22 PM. Cause of death blunt force trauma to head. Died instantly.
Crime Scene Photos: Show Kristoph dead on the pool table and Kevin slumped over in the chair.
Seeker Tabloid: Article that talks about Seeker's goals.
Lyn's Medical Documents: Discusses the injuries and damages she sustained from the car crash, as well as medication taken.
Hostage Newspaper Article: Discusses the hostage taking at the prosector's office.
Lyn's Journal: ...Has some interesting personal details.
Kristoph's Journal: Contains instructions and information about the Seeker organization.
Bloody Pool Cue: Murder weapon that ended Kristoph Gavin's life. Lyn's prints are on it.
Broken Window: A rock was thrown through the window, and one has to wonder why...
Listening Device: Found under the table in private room 3 where Kristoph Gavin was murdered.
Hidden Knife: Steak knife found in a plant pot in private room 3. Has no known prints and Kristoph Gavin's blood. The tip of the blade is covered in a tranquilizer.
Black Scrap: Burned fabric found in the fireplace.
Bloody steak knife: weapon used to murder Kevin Hutchinson. Lyn's prints are on it.
Toxicology Report: Kevin Hutchinson's blood stream had 3 times the recommended amount of sleep medication.
Profiles:
Maya Fey: Age 19. A close friend. Used to be my assistant before leaving to become Master of Kurain.
Trucy Wright: Age 8. My adopted daughter. Already dresses the part of a magician to the hilt.
Detective Badd: Age 53. In charge of the Interpol investigation. Very gruff.
Franziska von Karma: Age 19. Prosecutor in charge of this case. Working with Interpol.
Kay Faraday: Age 17. Claims to be the Yatagarasu. Edgeworth's mischief making assistant.
Detective Gumshoe: Age 33. Homicide detective at the local precinct.
Lyn Doom: Age 25. My client. A feisty prosecutor who helped saved my badge.
Miles Edgeworth: Age 27. A close friend. A well known prosecutor.
Kristoph Gavin: Deceased. The attorney who tried to revoke my badge. Pretended to be his brother the night of the murder.
Kevin Hutchinson: Deceased. Body guard hired to look after Lyn the night of the murder.
Klavier Gavin: Age 17. Star prosecutor and leader/vocalist for the rock group, the Gavinners. Still alive.
Eva Green: Age 36. An obsessive dentist, witness for this case.
Judge: Age ?. Judge who presides over my trials.
Connie Hall: Age 29. Waitress at the Oceanic who dreams of being a Hollywood actress.
Oppie Rah: Age 28. A rather extravagant artist.
Raymond Shields: Age 36. A wise guy defense attorney.