It's been a while. Managed to get this one out for the beginning of 2018. Thank you for reading and those who follow. Might come back to edit this one because it feel rushed to me.) I appreciate it. I borrowed a character from JordanPhoenix and Jove's Boy, Gordy Gumshoe. They write great stories! You should check them out also.

-Slight Warning- For those who are very superstitious, I recommend reading this one in your head. There is some dialogue ahead paraphrased of a curse. Perhaps it might be a reason why I ended up gashing my complimentary finger half way through typing this. It's all good, however. Might as well up the ante for the readers, too! (I am not responsible of what might happen to you, though)


Chief Prosecutor's Office

September 7 - 10:57 a.m.

Sleek as snow and just as icy, the prestigious prosecutor stepped forth. The years barely touched her. On the subject of physically, she refined like wine. Her face determined but crinkled like sour of milk. However his sister drowned the nuisance swiftly as her more grandeur of entry remained unaltered.

From the peak to the base of her stature, she adorned the highly classed regalia. Her black dress, frilly bow, and blouse bulbous of shoulder and form, button to the brim of blue and decorated as pristine of gold trims. Upon her own way of life, as perfection could reach, you cannot improve upon it. She was the same as the previous days of court and investigations.

She angrily tightened the clench of her black gloves from her shirt, presenting herself appropriately to her audience.

"Hello, little brother." The lingering german on her tongue kempt over.

"It has been a while, Franziska." Edgeworth readjusted the glasses over the bridge of his nose. Another look through the lenses confirmed her presence was well established.

"It sure has been, Miles Edgeworth," the prestigious prosecutor gested. "As much as I would like to become further acquainted, such must be left at a later time."

"Indeed." Edgeworth tapped his bicep minorly agitated, "you've come in unannounced during my investigation."

"Have I?" Her hand wrought forward unashamedly, "I'm pretty sure your investigation can be put on hold, just like your receptionist did for me downstairs."

"You can't be serious." Edgeworth affronted, "what gives you right to halt my investigations?"

"Apparently becoming chief and sitting around on your desk barking orders has certainly gotten to your head," she scorned.

'Not only do you barge in and interrupt my interrogation, but tell me to cease my own?! Since when has this become your party? You may cry all you want to!'

"Becoming chief has not gotten to my head, but I would like to inquire what is in yours to be coming without notifying me."

"Excuse me if I am interrupting tea time." She derided, "but I will not be stepping out until I have established my reason here."

"What may that be?" Willing to humor her, Edgeworth allowed his stepsister to release her side.

"You know already that I must come to the chief prosecutor in regards of permission to allow my investigations in the county." She informed in a gloat.

"Your investigation…?" Edgeworth noted oddly, "I believed that was to be outside the parameters of the city."

"If that were so," she scrutinized, "I would not be here."

"Have you found something worth interest?" He studied his sister's stance. It was not as impenetrable as he would normally find her prideful gawk.

"Not I… but a fellow investigator." She spoke lowly, "Miles Edgeworth, I hope you grant permission or else I will have the League and Prosecuting Board at your doorstep."

"Throwing threats now, are we?" He dismissed, but he could not help keep his eyes locked on her, "you may have permission. Now if you will happily escort yourself to the door, it would be much appreciated."

"Objection!"

The cry echoed throughout the room, stunning all three occupants.

"Do not try to snuff me out, Miles Edgeworth. There is one more thing I need before I go." She declared.

Of all the times his sister could possibly run in, he questioned himself, 'Why now?!'

"What is it?" He motioned with his brows.

Detective Gumshoe could only watch as the uncensored unsolicited approach of the prosecutor drew nearer as her black merciless fingers tapped along his beige overcoat. His once debuted bureaucratic ringleader reclaimed her right as she slapped the lumpy man upon his back. As adopting ownership to a recently neutered dog, she implanted her favourite tracker onto the detective.

"I will be taking the detective from your hands." She marked her territory, gripping his collar relentlessly. "Come, Scruffy! I will be needing your assistance."

Gumshoe's face morphed into several emotions before landing hopelessly onto desperation and fearful reluctance. "H-hey, sir!"

The detective's puppy eyes offered a imploring scatty favour of a rescue from his captivator.

'SAVE ME!'

"I'm afraid detective Gumshoe cannot volunteer to your search." Miles quickly snagged her attention, "he has been assigned to another scene he was just about to sort on the matter before you have arrived."

Her promise of never to be overshadowed brought to fruition as she smugly smiled to her younger sibling. "May I share an educated guess on what crime scene he is going to partake in?"

'She rides a hard bargain. There's absolutely no chance she is aware…'

"Be my uninvited guest." He gested amusedly.

"Does the crime scene near Gatewater Imperial Hotel collide safely to you?" She goaded in a sass.

"What the blazes?!" He irked back, his gritted spite thrown forth. "How could you have known?!"

"You must be steps ahead in order to find a suspect such as this." She precariously bowed with delight upon her established veracity. "If you were out on the field as you had many years ago, you could have had a chance to reach me steadfast."

"My absence from out on the field has not dulled out the wit." He asserted, 'Chief carries lots of duties behind the desk…'

"How do you know about the scene that had taken place near the Gatewater Imperial Hotel?"

"I believe my convict is in the city and moving fast." Franziska debriefed, "I have just gotten word on a possible body recovered. The origins of said body, was discovered at the scene."

"Are you inquiring that your investigation has some sort of connection with someone of that night?" The prosecutor skeptically brought up.

"I cannot confirm that with you." She willed, "you are not involved with my investigations. However, I do see that there is some collaboration that is in order."

'Not inviting me into intel, but willing to push me aside. You, my dear, have not changed.'

"What ever occurs in the city must be informed to me, Franziska." The prosecutor deadpanned, "you ask for permission on investigating, but whatever you want to pursue must go through me first."

The snowy white prosecutor scoffed, "I was not going to entirely leave you in the dark. I know from the urgency and the situation on how the chief investigator described would require your full attention."

Edgeworth divulged, "I'm listening."

Her hands crooked uncomfortably at the sleeve. "The forensic investigator and I have discovered something more than just a simple catch the culprit… There may be more at stake…"

"Such as?"

"I cannot openly say such things!" She remarked heftily, "I believe it is best that you and the chief investigator sit and chat on that. But I warn you, Miles Edgeworth. This is no laughing matter."

"If the vagueness does not make me laugh, then this moment will…"

"Would you like to greet a certain person?" She tightened the leather weapon in hand, "I'm sure you've had a crack at it."

"You may keep your guest to yourself." He quipped.

"Suit yourself." The prosecutor fished to the side, catching the detective by side glance.

Her small present smirk sending icy ripples to his direction, "Hello, Scruffy. It's been a while."

Quaky stutters joined his salute, "Y-yes, it has been a while, sir! I mean ma'am! I mean poobah!"

"That's enough before I see your brain burn out and smoke fuming from your head…"

"Sorry…" Gumshoe reluctantly moped.

"Since I am here, I might as well figure out what problems you failed to resolve on your part." The passive glare landing on the man behind his desk. "Why is Maggey Gumshoe on the chair like that?"

The Goddess of Misfortune rubbed her elbow. The wrenching moment of silence toppled over as her muted reply met all.

"Mrs. Gumshoe has been involved with the incident down near Gatewater Imperial Hotel." Edgeworth politely implemented. "There's your first hint to 'resolving' my issue."

"You've been involved with that night as well?!" She twisted swiftly, "then there is far more involvement than I thought."

"You've just now established that?" Edgeworth quipped, "what gave it away?"

"Quit bickering or I'll subject you to forty consecutive lashes!" She threatened.

'Oh no… Quite a specific number.'

She acquiesced. "Pray tell what happened."

"Do you plan to disclose your findings as well as the Chief Investigator's in turn?" He charged once more.

"That is up for some debate…" She seethed.

Knowing his fairer companion for lot of his childhood and present, he narrowed a certain reason to perhaps why she continuously forbids her details from reaching fruition. Returning to the city has perhaps casted that lingering shadow she continues to bear. Though, he'd thought she would have outgrown such a self fulfilling prophecy especially in such a day and age. The law continues to evolve, yet what it had fueled is her tenacity, not pride. The returning cataclysm homes in that she is indeed a von Karma and cannot manumit such as it is imbedded by tradition and blood.

The door swung swiftly open, a breeze nearly causing his cravat to plaster itself onto his chin. The chief forensic's gaze cut the air in several sweeping motions before allowing the barrier of solace clamp shut. Clattering shoes ceased to the presence of the Chief of Forensics.

"As useful as chewed up gum… and just as annoying stuck under your shoe..." She grumbled irritably.

"Dr. Thana Toss," Franizska turned as if she had already known the whole case. "Is he still out there?"

"Yes…" She held the bridge of her nose. "I had to deal with He whose name we don't speak of."

'She looks happy today…' Edgeworth mused at his colleague.

"Franziska... I thought you could double use of that whip into a leash for that wild hound out there…!" The forensic blurted.

"I do, but somehow he's able to wriggle himself out or perhaps he's feeding on himself like a helpless hyena… his role ought to be in league of 72 hours. I despise playing babysitter!" Her palpable glare bounding towards the prosecutor behind the desk. "Curse you, Miles Edgeworth!"

'Ah… I see what's going on.'

"What's happening here? Looks like an episode of Mawry going on…" The forensic scanned the scenery. "All we need is the test results now."

"Hello, Investigator Toss." Edgeworth addressed. "This is a witness-"

"Pause," The hand spoke to him directly. "Edgeworth… You're going to be put on hold for a moment."

'I'm being barked orders?! In my own office! Is there nowhere safe?!

"There she is." Toss remarked as the younger investigator emerged from the door frame.

Partly stupefied, another suspenseful, Ema zeroed in on the whipholding prosecutor. The light shimmering from the city cascading a lawful glow. The steps became skimpy and uncalculated as she shimmied over.

'Is that?! It can't be!'

"Franziska, this is my student, Forensic Investigator Ema Skye." Toss invited. "Ema this is Franziska von Karma, International Prosecutor. Were paired up in this investigation."

'SHE IS!'

"Prestigious International Prosecutor. Thank you, Dr. Thana Toss. Pleased to meet your acquaintance, Ema Skye." Franziska basked in a presenting bow.

'This is the person Dr. Toss is working with?! THIS IS EDGEWORTH'S SISTER! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! I heard she IS prestigious! I think this will look great on any resume! Worked with Franziska and Dr. Toss!"

"Her gears seemed to have ceased." Franziska noted.

"She's been doing that since before we got here." The doctor pouted.

"Perhaps she still requires some lessons?" The whipped stretched.

"No! No! I'm just-! Wow!" She sputtered at the glimpse of the whip. "Hi, Ms. von Karma!"

'Yikes! Straight to the point… I like it!'

"That's better." Franziska retreated pleasantly.

The Chief Forensic divided the way, advancing towards the man at his desk.

"Edgeworth… there was an incident in forensic labs to which I wasn't informed of. Being one of the chief's, you should know better than to not inform me."

'I do believe I was on pause, yet you continue to play…'

"I may not have a proper excuse, does not mean I must inform you personally. That is responsibility of Criminal Affairs. The chief of police is in charge of that and has been made aware. The situation is being assessed as we speak."

"What do you mean you can't inform me?! Of course you can!" She exploded. "For years you've badgered me then and badger me now about updating autopsy reports, but when it comes to my requests I get not one update. That's some great equal treatment."

"It's a two way street of mutual professionalism, Miles Edgeworth…" The prestigious intervened mockingly.

'Must you go there!'

"It's hard to get good help anymore..." Toss thought aloud. "What are you doing about it?"

"My investigations include finding the suspect who was in the labs." Edgeworth tapped his bicep once more annoyed. "It would be going much quicker, but in the meantime, I have guests..."

"At least something is being done…" Toss divulged. "I had to take out some footage myself of this guy. Knowing they crashed in home turf doesn't make me feel good in the slightest."

Toss indiscreetly threw the copied evidence onto Edgeworth's desk.

"You should see this one yourself, Franziska." She pointed. "Someone got into forensics and took evidence from the lab."

"Was it part of our investigation?!"

"No. Good thing too or things would've gotten nasty." Toss rehearsed. "This is part of a Detective Gumshoe's investigation and Edgeworth's, submitted evidence to Ema Skye."

Claiming the CD, he circled his desk along with his laptop. The side reader ingested the evidence.

"Don't worry, it doesn't have a virus." Toss interrupted.

"I did not presume. I hope you wouldn't attempt such a thing either."

"I got my own. Better even and both databases." She smirked.

As the player on his screen loaded, it captured the same surveillance footage Ema saw at the lab. The same man, the same hallway, the same mask. Edgeworth drew nearer, squinting at this goggled man's visage skated around corner to corner as the miasma of an airborne malady. It's the closest to revealing he had seen of this man.

'Why do I have the vibe that this man is similar to the doctor I saw at the hospital… I can't be too certain… It could be any employee from forensics as well.'

"Ema has told me she was upheld by this person who stole the evidence and that she had come to you about details." Toss derided.

"She has and I have taken the liberty of pursuing this person myself." Edgeworth unfurled.

The senior investigator wrought her chin down. "Uhuh… you're saying that because I'm here?"

'The only person I would lay an impression on is myself…'

"If that is true, then you may sit on my chair."

"It would be nice to sit on that chair actually." She craned over to see his grand desk. "But I'm hands-on during these times."

"Do you believe this person may be an employee of Forensics?" Edgeworth quizzed.

"I don't believe so." She brought up, "but this person knows the way around the place."

"I feel the fool has stopped you to listen to his legend…" Franziska commented over the perpetrator.

'You suppose he came from United King…?'

"We're going to be looking for him if he is in California." Toss added.

'All I need is another person to be 'stealing the truth' running around.'

"And that is where I was left off - in the middle of my interrogation." Edgeworth intervened.

"I got this…" Toss snided. Her destination was to the maiden unlucky. "Name and relation."

'This is my witness!'

"Maggey Gumshoe…" The Goddess of Misfortune began. "Edgeworth is asking me about this man in a bird mask…"

"Bird mask…" Her neck craned suspiciously. "Is this the same man that came to the forensics lab?"

"He is, Dr. Toss!" Ema announced. "I even have the sort of sketch of how this person looked like!"

Never had she witness this many turned heads on her besides court. The drowsy feeling coming along composite of nicely.

'Me and my big mouth! They're all staring at me!'

"You mention this now!" Franziska stomped over. Her hand nearly cutting the air as her whip, her fingers recoiled like the punishing crack. "Let me see!"

"Well…it's no Picasso... it's kind of… you know badly done but…! Partially without a mask…"

As the imminent end of the earth would perceive in slow motion, her hand dug into vials and kits. Her hand vainly attempting to catch her version of a costume composite. Those second became hours as the unwavering striking scowl demanded unscathed answers. The birth of the universe kept the incineration of its magma hot and quartz compressed into this single one moment of time.

'She's probably painted what she has told me…' Edgeworth tapped the bicep unsurprised. 'I feel the anxiety of The Scream is about to be etched on her face soon.'

The paper unfurled oddly wrinkled as a protective scroll against the prosecutor after its makeshift burial of scientific supplies.

"What is that thing?!" She nearly shook in place with the surreal.

"His…" She squirmed, "...mouth…?"

"Investigator Ema Skye… this had better not be a joke…" Verbal cuts striked. "I had hoped not to brand you immediately into the foolish ring!"

"..." The investigator cringed.

Ema could remember this moment well. The time where her first venture to becoming a forensic investigator occured. Her schooling, her life's dream and goal about to cram into a loving future of science and grand truths. The fruits of labored studying were ripened for the harvest. The monumentous earth shattering revelation of armageddon when the test results came back with the border of passing with a mileage stretched length of the state she resided in came within her grasp. The epitome of the end where the gravitational force caved in.

"A situation like this does not require unnecessary foolishness!"

"It's what I remember…" She squeaked.

"Perhaps we can jog that memory a bit more…"

'Ema, you were so young…'

"Wait!" Toss threw her hand blindly, blocking the whip happy prosecutor.

Ema inwardly sniffed. She watched as her superior swayed in like a scientific angel. 'You believe me, right?!'

"Ms. Gumshoe," the lifted weight Ema felt melted like the glaciers of the world as Toss exorcised the harsh demons. The doctor excavated latex protectors from her pockets, molding well into her fingers. "Please stand up."

"...?!" Her hesitation and darting eyes only furthered the Chief's pursuit.

Ema reviewed the repeated unappointed physical examination conducted on Maggey as she had. Orbiting Mrs. Gumshoe with the same miniature flashlight from her pocket.

"Dr. Thana Toss, what is this?" Franziska examined curiously.

"Give me one moment, please." She recanted. "Remove your jacket."

Maggey stopped to stare at her soon to be officer of an unwanted search and seizure, "why?"

"I can't tell you everything, but it I must check."

The once underhanded victim irresolutely shimmied backward. Her ventilation vibrated hulkingly. "Can she do that, Mr. Edgeworth?"

"There must be reasonable suspicion under the Terry Law," he informed fluently. "If her finding are in relation to her evidence then she may be well suited and allowed as authority of law."

"Dick…?" She muttered helplessly.

"Mr. Edgeworth is right." The detective iterated. "Don't worry, I'm right here!"

'I have the insatiable feeling the detective may not have known that…'

All eyes ensnared the momentary lapse of time had Maggey reluctantly removing her black and blue striped jacket. Her skin revealed by a blue sleeveless novel shirt. Toss's imitation of a T-pose nearly crucified the Goddess as she scampered up and down. Maggey's lips pursing awkwardly as this person scanned delicate areas around the neck and arms. She thankfully didn't scan below the belt.

"This man didn't touch you or physically harm you or any of the sort?" The words wafted by as recomposed properly.

"No. Nothing like that." Her arms flapping to her side.

Edgeworth noted the Detective's unease and gritted teeth.

"Do you feel unusual? Fatigue? Has there been any scratches? Do you have any cough? Any allergies?"

"No, I feel fine."

The forensics leaned on her side. "Just one more thing - Open up."

"..." Lady Luckless blanched to the coloration of a cauliflower.

"Your mouth, Ms. Gumshoe."

"I have great teeth and healthy gums," she attempted to boast twinkle eyed. "You don't have to check."

"Is that so?" She leered, "then there's nothing to hide."

"I'm not hiding anything." She pouted, peering away from this woman.

"Unless rigor mortis locked your jaw in place, I have to check you."

Her fingers writhed uncomfortably. Those entrapped wide orbs darted side to side neurotically like a cornered fox among hounds. She stared at the door, her path currently blocked by the Chief Forensics.

"Well?!"

...Knock Knock...

The ghostly thumps answered in seance.

"What was that?" The big detective galumped.

"You're not allowed to come in!" Franziska commanded the trained instruction through wooden furnish.

"Do it." Maggey answered swiftly. Doublets recaptured the pseudo patient.

"Compliant at last?" Toss relieved confidently as she clicked the flash boastfully. "Time for that oral examination."

As those same gloved hands that had frisked her upper torso, they landed at her chin. The lighting brought about the conclusion. As the woman interrogated promised, there was but good teeth and healthy gums.

"Hmm.. Okay." Toss inserted whilst removing her gloves.

"Is there something wrong with Maggey?! Is she sick?! Does she have the flu?!" Gumshoe triumphantly embraced the verbal medicinal closet. "I'll get the bath, the soup and everything ready!"

"Let me tell you something about the flu…" The top forensic fiercely pointed. "That's a case of DANDRUFF compared to what I've found!"

"Ah!" He cried as if her verbose burned his fingers. The fidgeted scratch of his scalp had him mope over. "Maggey doesn't have a case of dandruff! Her hair is nice and huggably soft."

"Tell me this isn't the detective you sought for…" Toss slumped dubiously.

"Would it hurt more if he was?" The coral white shirt suffering indentations of disappointment.

"This is going to be much harder than I thought…"

"Does she have anything Dr. Toss?" Ema squeezed worriedly.

"No… she's clean. Good thing, too." Her head shook puzzled. "Two close calls for the day… too many."

Retreating back to the laptop, on Edgeworth's, she mused over the surveillance once more. Unwilled to let go of this masquerader who barraged her workplace.

"I've seen enough to know a weirdo in a mask is unfriendly…" Her grunt scratched hatefully. "That oaf outside! Practically broke his neck to let the person in."

"Letting the animal out the cage and he's bound to act like one…"

"We'll get him later." Her attention reestablished towards the other Chief. "You said this person was involved with Ms. Gumshoe, how?"

"Is this where I can finally step in?"

"Yes, Edgeworth. You can have the floor now."

'It has always been my floor…!'

"The information you have gathered must be viewed by me as well. Though our investigations may have different culprits, there is a connection that must be established. As they have occured on the same night near the same location."

"Surely we may disclose some information with you as Chief Prosecutor. However, I don't believe you will be involved with our investigation," the Icy prosecutor deterred. "Perhaps simply leaving it to us will prove to be steadily done."

'Must you always leave me out in these matters…? Certainly your goal has remained unaltered for years…'

"Do not forget who is Chief of the district, Franziska."

"I have not forgotten. I'm merely stating that those not behind a desk will get the job done more swiftly."

"If the family feud can be put to rest, can we please get on with it?!"

"..."

"..."

Franziska pursed her lips. Edgeworth brooded silently away from the ruckus. Hairs nearly uncoiled furiously down the other chief's back, despising the unwanted career path of family arbiter.

"I hope she's not another fireball. Is she?" The giant cupped hand swayed wishfully to the younger investigator.

"She is." Ema concluded quietly.

"We have to give him the info of our case. There is no doubt there," Franziska's investigative partner drove seriously. "What I've found must be shown to the Chief Prosecutor."

'This feud may actually be finding some progress.'

"You frisked Mrs. Gumshoe rather quickly… why?" Edgeworth pressed matter-of-factly.

"Call it paranoia, but you can never be too sure about something…" She muled silently, before reconnecting. "I believe it is best if you see it for yourself down in my forensics chambers. You can go back to your investigation when you're done if you wish."

'If she is this ruffled, I can only imagine what it is…'

"Very well." His glasses reconnecting with the bridge of his nose. "If it is that important."

"Trust me." She threw her hand forward. "From what I've seen… we need a mop, not a stretcher..."

Calculating the involved and evaluating company, she quickly deduced. "I don't think I have enough space in my car…"

"The detective could accompany me in mine."

"Nice shiny red on wheels. I call shotgun!" The oaf giggled, "Thanks, sir."

"You get to ride in nice hotwheels too." Ema chirped.

"This is not a field trip!" The german rippled the air. "To Forensics, we go."

"And Investigator Ema Skye…" The silver haired woman engraved. "I am calling shotgun."

'It was fun while it lasted…' She responded. "No problem."

"But wait!" His Concerned broke. "What about Maggey?!"

Edgeworth continued to stare down at Maggey. A person of logic does not entirely place his basis on intuition. Yet he could not help feel the lingering doubt that Maggey was indeed hiding something else. She wouldn't face his direction anymore, continuously squirming uneasily in the chair.

"Mrs. Gumshoe…" Edgeworth calmly pronounced once more.

"Yes, Mr. Edgeworth." Her head at him, her eyes elsewhere.

"Is there anything else you want to tell me?" Hoping his tone could placate the situation.

She simply shook her head, remaining quiet on the furnish.

"Are you willing to come back another time to continue our discussion?"

She nodded, unwilling to encompass his full scope. Clattering thumps distanced themselves from her domain. A thick palm reached forward. Her orbs recatching that proud smile of one of her favourite people in the world.

"Mr. Edgeworth is leaving Maggey, I can't leave you alone in here."

Her face managed to contort a more buoyant gleam. Clasping an all too familiar hefty but caring grasp, her lift assuaged by his strength. She was caught by surprise as that lumbering goofball pressed her in close to her side. His beige coat warm and his unrelenting arms disinclined to let such a feat ever happen again. All their backs faced them with objective in their mind.

Upon Franziska leading, opening the Chief's door brought about the nightmare hiding. Offering his trademark, he towered even Edgeworth and slightly over Gumshoe.

"That momentary relief is now gone…"

"Why must the physical manifestation of a headache still be at the doorstep…" Toss massaged over her brow.

"You foolishly foolish fool who had foolishly allowed another fool to foolishly skip pass you!" Weapon drawn to the offensive, "I shall shed a proper judgement onto you!"

The man sassed passed his girthed smirk directly in line with the Chief Prosecutor. "It's the 'older sister.' Guess that makes you poor little Tomino. Hell must be good." His laugh stopped by a scoff as the sheltered but unadulterated caught on with the angry german woman. "Careful with that whip now, no need for the scourging."

The crack collided all ears to a temporary deafening silence with the intensity of a miniature flashbang.

"Let go!"

The thrashing and lashing finally shattered. Both arms now attempting to retrieve her weapon in umbra. Moans of stretched leather escaped her tool of justice effortlessly in a merciless catch of the day.

"You left me high and dry," he expressed. "Are you going to behave from here on, woman?"

Ema conceded partly frightened. That leather rope passed through him before he grabbed it like a knife through water. Their visitor tugged slightly back before releasing the leathery whip, causing her to tumble out of her perfect position.

"Why need enemies when you have a prosecutor like this? No offense, Franziska."

"None taken." She properly collected her stature. "I stand on it."

"Don't I land away from that category?" Edgeworth inquired cynically.

"Not right now."

"Erk!"

"Move it. We got things to do."

"You're going to show me the way on a magic carpet?" He pressed before examining the rest of the crew. "Three, four, fiiiiiive? Bringing the kids along, I see. Oh, how sweet!"

"Oh, you can count?" Toss uplifted, "that's impressive."

"Mr. Edgeworth…" Gumshoe brought up suppressedly stunned. "Isn't that…?"

That all too familiar performance review recipient department that had numerously cut him and his paycheck was under the relatively new management. His lips retreated backwards as the side glance managed to pierce to his direction. Seering looks could happen without visual.

"That is Human Resources." Edgeworth quickly picked up. "Which reminds me, I must have a word with you."

"Good. Rip him a new one while we head to forensics. We'll be waiting." She chided to the oppressor, "and you're not invited, not after what you did."

"You're nearing onto a liability…" Franziska inserted her perfected two cents.

"Can't promise that." Their dandy man finessed.

"Be there Miles Edgeworth." The lustered prosecutor basked. "Otherwise have the complexion of a perfectly four sided shape."

The three females left the corridor without another blip.

Edgeworth motioned for his other guests. "One moment, Detective. I'll be right down."

"Yes, sir!" They dawdled off from the Chief.

The intersection of staircases and elevator alast vanquished the others from metallic frames. Gumshoe greeted his sorrowful wife. "We're going to get this person. I can't get this guy myself, but… that doesn't mean I can't book him personally either!"

"That's right." She drawled, "I think it's best for Edgeworth to lock his own door than me."

"That old time?" He cheered, "that wasn't your fault, Maggey."

His suggestion cushy as he hugged her once more. "Do you want me to give you a ride back home?"

"I'll be okay." She cheered softly. "You go help out Mr. Edgeworth like you always do."

"I will! Bye, Maggey. And make sure you call me incase anything happens, okay?" He pressed once more before booking it down the flight of stairs.

'Might as well get on with this matter now.'

"You are aware that Prosecutor Gaspen Payne was fired a year prior." Edgeworth partly glanced upward.

"Huh... must've slipped my mind. I didn't noticed there were two Paynes in the neck around here. I thought it was the other one returning. He has a lot of nerve coming back, it's inspiring. Don't worry, it won't happen again."

"Next time make sure of it."

"No need to point the cold finger in the wrong direction." His neck bobbed backward confidently. "Beat you to it. That happened yesterday - fired. He didn't take it well at the desk when I called him up. Consider that leave of absence permanent."

'So that was the scuffle yesterday at the receptionist's desk?'

"I have to get rid of all the unwanted, just like you requested. All the tainted and all of the impurities leaving the pureness. Gone." His glance tuned away, "It's been very slow here, making sure everyone is clean and nonvolatile. It's a process of elimination."

"By the way, let that not happen again. Thank you."

"No... thank you." The side of his face rolling back into a sneer. "If it wasn't for your help, I wouldn't be where I am today."

Edgeworth squinted acknowledged. Leaving his guest be, his venture was to regroup with the detective, afraid he may do something mundane to his red sport. The laiden hand spare to unlatch the metal doors prior to landing on the maiden left in the lobby. Certainly the detective had inquired about bringing her home, but dilly dallying may cause his forensic crew and Franziska to tie him down and drag him. The elevator on the adjacent wall swole the feeling of jello to his feet. He had so desperately attempted to escape the discovered truth that the pink haired man was but a perverted patient lounging as director. Such won't be occuring he prayed, soon.

Despite the brightness of the glimmering diamond designed floor tiles of the vacant Chief's hallway lobby bouncing the illuminating reflection of low cityscape at her, the light grew dim and snuffed lightly upon his presence. Dividing the seas of light on will, his fancy shoes rattled in his approach slowly and daintily. The stalking dark bliss of mist tickled her ear not like that of another familiar nor was it hostile.

"Strange…" the dark man eerily grumbled by her.

She stared up at him, all of his obscured eyes glancing at the window of the city. He later turned, properly greeting his guest as his coalescing viscera mold and meld, bridging links of his now tangible physique upon meeting his toothy grin.

"It is called Los Angeles… Yet, I see no angels."

His tall amenities casted a shadow to her territory, wrenching the light from her miniature throne of a lobby seat. "How are you doing?"

"I've been in better times..."

"No hard feelings?"

"None at all."

"How are the kids?"

"They're okay. Right now they're at school."

"I hope they didn't worry too much about their mother goose." His neck craned downward, watching her squirm uncomfortably as she relived her unfortunate moments. "Come on. If you're going to be like that, then I'm going to have to invite myself. You did me a good favor. Better yet, great. This takes some weight off my shoulders."

"I'm glad I could help." She stirred partly twinkle eyed. "I sure hope it works out in the end."

"It will… give it time."

He retreated from her presence, allowing light to be shed upon her. "Does it feel different?"

"A little. I can barely feel it now."

"It's too early. There are too many distractions."

"He was worried about me. I guess that is a start."

"Good. I didn't think that ol' detective would. Guess his heart used to be in the right place..." He swayed his modern day cylix.

He tipped before engorging gently to himself. "The doc said, 'hello.'"

"Oh," She stopped herself at the mention of her Fear Dorcha. "Tell him I said hi back."

"I got to hand it to you. I don't know how you're dealing with it, but to be frank - he's an idiot. Not appreciating your presence entirely. That's something I wouldn't take for granted. I did. Twice. And guess what happened?" He taunted with a careless taut flexed shrug.

She winced. Hard. His tone accrued darker and agitated.

"I've been told, give the benefit of doubt. Which I will doubt… because any other way of thinking will aggravate me. And the Doc, he would more than agree."

Maggey faced the flooring in somber, 'I know…'

"What would happen if... if... Dick were to somehow figure out..." she couldn't finish.

His lips smacked as he sucked in the taste with his maw. "I'll give you another relief, Mama Goose. With how he's dealing with your little personal problem, I don't think lumpy will. Now that other investigator… the white rabbit and that mortician is the kink in my shoulders.

But I've seen things hit rock bottom real fast. If that's the case, then I will not hesitate to exercise with… extreme prejudice." He deadpanned, steam dripping from the infinitesimal gaps of his teeth like a dragon.

"You can't do that!" She begged.

"Haven't you been listening? I said, if things were to hit rock bottom. We're not there, yet."

She whined in her throat, scratchy like sandpaper, watching him intently. She knew he would not hesitate to kill. His minatory precipice blocking the light once more as he peered at the prey city, sprawled with the tang of populace, vast buildings, and traffic.

"In times like these - you can't strictly play by the rules anymore…"

Met with her familiar once more, he peered down her stricken mood. "How much time you looking for the detective to take off? I'd be willing to give as much time as you please."

"He's being dragged by Ms. von Karma and I think Mr. Edgeworth…"

"Hmmm… should've known that persistent hare would."

A soothing tone interrupted their ears as the man fetched his cell from his pocket before answering, revisiting his muted guest.

"Talk to me…" He began lowly. "Ah... Hello, little lady."

He pompously lifted his chin upon the familiar voice, "I didn't recognize the number at first."

He lackadaisically plopped his weight onto the luxury red cushioned bench across from her, propping his arms back and opened himself wide to his delightful comfort as the furniture became his territory. His long crossed legs allowed to reach the sleek low table to uphold his shoes. "I see. No, I'm working. Man's got a job. She's not with me. Not all the time. Sometimes… Once in awhile. Her phone is probably dead again. She forgets sometimes… How about you? That's good. Really? He just walked out like that…? Let me guess, she scooped him. You're alone...? Bad. I am not judging him out loud… It is not about that. If so, hold down the fort for me then. Good girl. ...I'm sorry... Alright! Good woman… You want me to what? You can't even tell if I would."

He sighed, reluctantly lifting his hand, but willing to humor. "I swear... yes… Bye."

"Feisty!" He seeped amusedly. The phone returned itself to his pocket before lifting his attention from the momentary rest.

"I'll be taking care of things from here on." Maggey watched as the sycophant on the velvet sofa restored his stance. He reclaimed his grandior form as she peered with a lazy attempted reassuring grin. Her non existent resistance showed this was not her first time of having something quite as intense. "I think you deserve a break."

There are unfinished tasks... for the nymph's sake...

"And by the way… let me get a look at that shirt of yours."

She relinquished her hold, unveiling her novelty shirt. Bum Rap Rhiny, Phony Phanty and the rest of the law enforcement across the playing field. Satirical cartoonish renditions of their veracious bestial counterparts dressed in their professional role attire like a massive zootopia.

"Great taste… thanks for the support." He ushered, "My Lady is a great fan of the detective's idea."

"Your… She's the one who invested in Dick's Blue Badger…"

"Do you want to guess which one she was inspired by me?"

She shuffled a little more, "...The King."

His leg slammed valiantly against the coffee table, sending the ripples for everything in the room to share. "You're damn right!"

He laughed, removing the large brimmed hat to his breastplate. She recoiled as his visage inched closer to her, displaying his humoring death glare. "What can she say? You're welcome…"

'I guess… no good deed goes unpunished…'

It was his turn now, but she worried, feeling the atmosphere decay in a flash freeze upon his avaricious consumption of the heat surrounding them. Captivated by the living evaporations of the paradoxical apotheotic attorney before her once more, he left only that lagging fanged ominous smile before dawdling with the rest. The lingering arriere pensee staining to the Goddess, if he was merciful as the doctor. This emperor had taken back his crown and wore new clothes and to him - if it feels good, tastes good - it must be his.

It was strange recollecting the faces when she had gotten home. The look on her children, the look on Gumshoe. Gordy's face scrunched along with his younger sibling, amidst with tears that had most likely shed for hours in confusion and lonesomeness. Gumshoe's frantic grasps did not hurt but near constriction. He could not help it. She knew this very well. It was hard for them, this she had no doubt. Yet she could not let the feeling go within her. Squirming tight in her chest and lurching to her throat. It was not sickness. It was not dubious. The mumbles and pouted weeping, his burly arms curling her close to a fetal clutch despite his conscious swiftly away in slumber. Regardless, the night of escape, she held the near weeping emotional wreck of a detective in her arms, currently cradled against her bosom. Her glance exchanged to the countertop, hoping she had made the right choice. She was surprised Gumshoe did not take notice. Then again, the sopping mess he became easily clouded her evidence - those groceries on the table just kept staring right back at her.


Purple Hooded Angel: Great words of wisdom, no doubt! Thank you for reading and I will always try to make better writing.