DISCLAIMER: Regular Show is the property of JG Quintel and Cartoon Network. Additionally, Phoenix Wright and the Ace Attorney series are the property of Capcom and Nintendo. I do not own any of the games, cartoons, characters, locations, ANYTHING. This is purely for enjoyment and not for profit. I am just a man who loves to write and, as such, has a story to tell.
Additionally, I think this goes without saying (but I'll say it anyway): the legal methods presented in this fanfic are not based on those in reality, nor am I trying to be accurate with how a real trial goes or how lawyers work or go about their cases.
CHAPTER 2
Investigation - Day 1 - Part 2
City Police Station
Lobby
May 18th, 1:30 PM
Phoenix and Eileen entered the City Police Station and were greeted by hammering footsteps and a fast flurry of mixed voices. Officers talking to each other, workers talking into phones, several others shouting to those down two dividing hallways and across offices. One voice, however, spoke louder and was more commanding than all the rest.
"Get those reports sorted and filed, people! Court is tomorrow and I won't have the paperwork for this one delayed!" shouted a man, his voice coming out from the intercom speakers. "And someone, get the computers, cameras, and other electronics prepped and cleaned! The Upgrade for the station starts tomorrow! Hustle, people!"
Phoenix and Eileen both took a startled step backwards, their backs pressing against the doors as a flustered police officer rushed past them, arms full of folders that were jammed packed with paper.
"Geez," said Phoenix, he and Eileen stepping forward again. "You were right when you said people were riled up, Ms. Roberts. I don't think I've ever seen the police act like this back in Angeles Bay." 'Well, except for maybe that time when MC Bomber infected all the computers at the station. . . .' he added mentally.
"They're probably feeling rushed for a number of reasons," Eileen responded, looking left and right as more and more officers disappeared down the halls. "The investigation, I heard, was performed quickly, and from the looks of things here, they're rushing to get things ready for court, among other things."
"That's not very encouraging," said Phoenix. "I understand the importance of time-efficiency, but things like investigations should never be rushed." Phoenix paused. "Then again . . . given the experience I've had with both trials and investigations, I'm not sure I'm the best person to make that claim."
"Oh, yeah," Eileen said suddenly, "I read in your online profile that you're experienced in working on tight deadlines." She raised an eyebrow. "Mr. Wright, is it really true that trials must be finished within three days where you come from?"
"Yeah, it is."
"Isn't that kind of inconvenient and irrational, though?"
Phoenix let out a sad chuckle. "Oh, yes, Ms. Roberts, it certainly can be. I believe that the three-day rule was implemented to keep the courts from becoming congested. I'm not exactly sure if the rule is always beneficial or not, but what can be done? Rules are rules, I guess. . . . So . . ." Phoenix glanced around. The neutral gray lobby was now totally empty of law enforcers, made all the more apparent given how quiet it had become.
The lobby itself was basically a large rectangular room, connected by two hallways behind a large receptionists desk. A couch and some chairs with a coffee table sat near the entrance, along with a water cooler, a large potted plant, a bulletin board with wanted posters and various other info, and a large diagram depicting what looked like a map of the City.
Phoenix stepped towards the unoccupied front desk, just to double check if anyone short was seated in the chair behind it, but there was nobody there. He then glanced to the two hallways leading to the back of the station from which faint voices could still be heard. "Where do we go to get to the detention center?" he asked.
"Hmm. . ." Eileen pointed towards the nearest hall. "I think it should be down there. Let's see if we can find someone who —"
"Hold it, you two!" came a commanding voice down one of the halls.
Phoenix and Eileen both turned to see an officer float towards them. Yes, you heard right: float. The rather small officer was hovering a few feet off the ground, was slightly transparent, and had no arms or legs. In truth, he looked just like a pale, floating head.
"AH! Ghost!" Phoenix yelled, his already pointy hair standing more on end than usual. Indeed, the officer was a ghost. He was also wearing a police hat, sunglasses, and had five-o'clock shadow.
"Mr. Wright, it's all right," Eileen reassured, grabbing the human's hand to help steady him. "He's a police officer — who just so happens to also be a ghost."
"O-Oh. . ." said Phoenix. His nerves calmed themselves, but he could still feel the goosebumps that had erupted all over his arms. Clearing his throat, he looked back up at the ghostly cop. "M-My apologizes, Officer."
"Let me guess," said the ghost dully, "you're from out of town."
"Eh, heh heh . . . y-yeah," Phoenix replied with a sheepish chuckle. 'Oh, if only Maya was here for this. She would burst with joy at seeing an honest-to-goodness spirit.' "Is it that obvious?"
"Given your reaction to me, I say that makes it pretty obvious," said the ghost officer. "That, and I don't recognize you." His gaze shifted down to Eileen, and, upon seeing her, his stern expression softened to a small smile. "I recognize you, though, Eileen."
"Hi, Officer Low-Fives," Eileen greeted with a wave.
"Howdy," he said with a nod, and with that friendly formality, the officer looked up again at Phoenix with a stern expression. "Now, is there something I can help you with, Mr. . . ."
"Oh, yes," Phoenix said, collecting himself. "Officer, my name is Phoenix Wright, Defense Attorney."
"Defense Attorney?" Low-Fives asked, before comprehending. "Let me guess, you came because of that cloudy gal who attacked Frank Smith?"
"Cloudy gal?" Phoenix repeated, noting the uncomfortably spiteful look on the officer's face.
"Yeah. Or Cloudy Jay, as she's called," Low-Fives amended, still frowning as though the name he had spoken was something sour.
Feeling a tug on his sleeve, Phoenix looked down at Eileen.
"He means CJ, Mr. Wright," said Eileen. "Cloudy Jay is her name."
"Oh. . . ." Phoenix raised an eyebrow. "So, what, is she like a walking cloud or something? Who names their child 'Cloudy'? And what does the 'Jay' mean?" Phoenix looked back up at the ghostly officer. "Officer, I would like speak with Ms. Jay about the incident. If you don't mind, can you please show me to the detention center?"
"Sorry, sir, but I do mind," said Officer Low-Fives. "As I've already told Eileen the other day, along with those two clowns who keep coming here, no civilians are allowed to see this particular prisoner. At least, not until the trial tomorrow."
'Two clowns?' Phoenix thought, confused. 'What two clowns?'
"What?" said Eileen, distressed. "Still? Officer Low-Fives, CJ can't still be in for questioning, can she?"
"Afraid she is, Eileen," replied Low-Fives unsympathetically. "And even when she finishes, we still can't allow anyone back there. Sorry, but orders are orders."
"Whose orders?" Phoenix inquired.
"Orders," Low-Fives repeated, a little impatiently.
"Officer, please, I'm a defense attorney," said Phoenix. He tugged at the gold, circular pin gleaming on his blue suit's lapel. "Look, here's my Attorney's Badge."
Low-Fives stared at it for a few seconds, then squinted hard at Phoenix as though trying to comprehend something that was equally confusing and potentially frustrating. "I'm sorry, but are you saying you want to defend that crook?"
"I would like to speak to Ms. Jay and decide for myself whether or not I'll defend her," Phoenix explained calmly. "So, if you don't mind, could you please —"
"Did you not hear me the first time?" Low-Fives scowled. "I said 'nobody is permitted to see her.'"
"Actually," Phoenix amended, "you said no 'civilians' are permitted in. I, however, am not a civilian of this city and, as a lawyer, have the legal right to determine whether or not I wish to present her case."
"All right, then, allow me to correct myself," Officer Low-Fives said aggressively. "No ONE is allowed in to see the criminal, attorney or not!"
"But –"
"Are you questioning my authority?!" Low-Fives demanded, floating a few inches towards Phoenix, who stood his ground. It wasn't exactly difficult; as angry as he sounded, Low-Fives didn't look nearly as intimidating as he would have if he had a whole body rather than just a head.
"Officer Low-Fives, please," Eileen pleaded, trying to sound reasonable. "Mr. Wright is right. CJ is entitled to a defense."
"I'm aware of that, Eileen, but me and the whole department have been ordered to let no one talk to the accused," Low-Fives explained, not unkindly but not softly either.
"Who ordered that?" Phoenix asked. "The chief?"
"No, not the chief," said Low-Fives. "It was actually — oh, there he is!"
The three of them looked around. They all heard it: the growing sound of footsteps on the linoleum floor, approaching them with perfect rhythm.
Another police officer walked out of one of the halls. This officer was human. In addition to a hat and sunglasses, like those Officer Low-Fives was wearing, this officer had a buzz cut hairstyle. His uniform was crisp and clean, and his belt was equipped with a variety of tools: handcuffs, a ham radio, mace, a black pistol, and a second larger, yellow pistol. Additionally, this officer had what appeared to be medals and other military pins attached to his unform. Phoenix could practically feel the professional authority radiating from this man. His expression was strangely calm yet oddly serious, like a steadfast solider attending a war council. Even his straight-as-a-line posture gave the impression of a fine-tuned warrior.
"Pardon me if I'm interrupting," he said calmly to the three of them, "but I couldn't help but hear some tension going on here in the lobby."
Phoenix and Eileen recognized the officer's voice. It was the same one they had heard on the intercom when they entered the police station. However, they only recognized it by watching the man's mouth, because the tone in which he now spoke was not forceful and demanding, but rather cool and collected.
"Officer Low-Fives," said the man. "You are needed for a meeting in fifteen minutes."
"Right, understood, Chief Patriot," said Low-Fives, his tone respectful.
The Officer gave a wry, stiff smile. "It's just 'Officer Patriot', Low-Fives. I've yet to be made chief, so it would do to keep our titles accurate to our rank."
"Oh, right, sure thing," Low-Fives amended. "My apologies. I'll get to the meeting soon. I was sending these two off," and he shrugged his head at Phoenix and Eileen.
"Hey, wait a minute!" said Phoenix.
The two officers turned to him.
"Is there a problem, sir?" asked the man known as Officer Patriot, his tone still calm but cool as steel.
"Yes!" Phoenix insisted, the small lobby amplifying his voice. "I wish to speak to Ms. Cloudy Jay!"
The silence that resided in the police station broke after these words were said. Down the halls, officers and other workers stuck their heads out to watch the scene unfolding in the lobby.
Officer Patriot's expression remained unchanged, as motionless as a statue.
Officer Low-Fives, however, glared. "For the third time, sir, no one is permitted to see the accused!"
"I have every legal right to see her!" Phoenix stated, not flinching from Low-Fives' glare, nor feeling any fear. This ghost was nothing compared to the intimidating likes of Franziska von Karma or Miles Edgeworth.
"And what qualifications do you have to speak to a dangerous felon?" Low-Fives demanded in a more commanding voice.
"I'm a defense attorney!" Phoenix explained, again tapping the attorney's badge on his lapel. "Oh, and for the record, a person first has to be convicted before they're labeled as a felon!"
Officer Patriot's eyebrow raised by a centimeter behind his sunglasses. "You wish to defend an attempted murderer?"
"I'll make my decision after I've spoken to her," said Phoenix.
Eileen gazed up at Phoenix, a little worried. 'He still hasn't decided?'
"For the very, very last time," Officer Low-Fives said roughly, "no one — civilian, lawyer, anyone — is to see the accused until 10:00 AM tomorrow!"
"But that's when the trial starts!" Eileen said desperately.
"Exactly," said Low-Fives. "You both will have to wait until then."
At hearing this, Phoenix's remaining patience dwindled. Not caring about who he was talking to, Phoenix raised his voice, "The law states that all civilians are entitled to a defense! I am a defense attorney and I request to see Ms. Jay so I can decide whether or not to prepare her case!"
Again, there was a distant scurry of footsteps and doors opening. Several officers and other people had left their offices and were now watching from the hallway entrances.
Officer Low-Fives was looking very grouchy now. Officer Patriot, however, looked back at Phoenix as though he was a mildly interesting TV show: enough to get his attention, but not nearly exciting enough for him to elicit emotion.
Eileen gazed from the lawyer to the two officers, feeling nervous. The growing friction between the two groups was practically static now, and Eileen dreaded what might happen if the attitudes didn't lighten up.
Phoenix stood where he was, awaiting either their confirmation or refusal. To try and calm himself, he gripped the magatama in his pants pocket.
"Why you!" Officer Low-Fives growled. "I 'ought to arrest you for —" but his threat was cut off when Officer Patriot cleared his throat and held up his hand. The human officer stepped forward.
"Please, calm yourself, Officer Low-Fives," said Patriot. The ghost obeyed, but continued to glare at Phoenix.
Patriot turned back to the blue-suited lawyer. "For the record, Mr. . ." he paused questionably.
"Phoenix Wright."
"Mr. Wright," Patriot amended calmly. "As an officer, I am perfectly aware of the law and what it states for those accused of criminal activity. And I agree, too, that every person is entitled to a defense and to due process. However," he said, a hint of heaviness to his words, "whether or not you wish to represent Ms. Jay, we cannot permit you to see her until the trial tomorrow."
"Why not, though?"
"For your safety," said Patriot simply. "The suspect in question has been known to possess a, quote 'stormy temper', and I cannot guarantee your safety while in her presence, even if me and other officers are nearby."
'A stormy temper?' Phoenix hadn't expected that. On the other hand, he had dealt with ill-tempered people before in the past — from an elderly, fast-talking security guard, to an elderly, grouchy man with a big, red nose and a penchant for throwing seeds. Then again, even though such people were grouchy, they could also be fair and reasoned with. Franziska von Karma being the best — and most painful — example.
"Um, Officers?" asked Eileen, stepping forward. The Officers and Phoenix looked down at her. "Perhaps we can speak to CJ over a computer monitor? I think the station should have electronic visitation."
"We do, Eileen," said Low-Fives evenly, "but, as you may or may not have heard from when you both came in, the station's computers and cameras are currently preparing for the City-Wide Upgrade. It starts tomorrow for this station, and we have to make sure all our equipment is ready and our important files and other documents are secured and stored away. This includes video and communication software, so all video-chat and the cameras they use are currently offline for the time-being. It's part of the reason the station is on such high-alert today. Both new technology and updating all written records to digital format is keeping our hands full. Such bad timing, too, with a trial happening tomorrow," he added with a slight edge.
"Um, excuse me?" Phoenix asked. The two officers and Eileen looked back to him. "Can someone, please, explain to me what this 'Upgrade' is about?"
"You mustn't be from around here," said Officer Patriot.
"No, I'm not. I just flew in about an hour ago," Phoenix explained. "Hey, now that I mention it . . . I think I remember hearing something about an 'upgrade' happening at the airport."
"Probably because it's the airport's day to receive the upgrade," answered Officer Patriot. "The whole City's going through a technological upgrade for efficiency and security reasons over the next few days, and that includes every major building in the City. This station's day for the upgrade is tomorrow, so, again, any electronic visits are out of the question — at least for today."
**COURT RECORD - "The City-Wide Upgrade." The City and all major buildings are undergoing a massive technological upgrade, including efficiency and security.**
"Then what if I come back tomorrow?" asked Phoenix.
"Ha!" Officer Low-Fives scoffed. "What makes you think the trial will last beyond tomorrow? This case is open-and-shut six ways to Sunday. That cloud is as good as guilty." He paused. "Although, now that I say it, it's not so good being guilty, is it?"
Eileen frowned, her hands coming together.
Phoenix frowned, too, but with frustration. "Officers, please," he insisted. "I've dealt with so-called 'open-and-shut' cases before, and if I've learned anything over these years being a lawyer, it's that the truth is hardly ever simple, let alone 'open-and-shut'."
"You doubt our investigative skills?" Low-Fives asked aggressively.
"Forgive me, Officer, but given that you're denying me the chance to question Ms. Jay, I say that gives reason to question your skills."
"Why you —" Low-Fives growled, his pale, ghostly face actually turning red from anger.
"Mr. Wright," said Officer Patriot, again intervening before tempers could rise any further. "Let's just get one thing straight here: are you determined to defend Ms. Jay in court?"
"If you would just give me the chance to —"
"Nobody is allowed to see the accused — period!" Officer Patriot said bluntly. "No exceptions, whomever they are or whatever they are. Now, back to the question I stated: are you seeking to defend Ms. Jay as her attorney?"
Again, there was silence. It filled the police station like a dense fog. Every eye was now on the blue-suited lawyer, awaiting his answer.
Phoenix felt both hesitant and frustrated. There had never been a case where he was denied the right to visit an accused client. A first meeting, the first impression between lawyer and client, was crucial, both in personal judgement and assessing the details from the client's perspective to prepare oneself for court. Phoenix needed to see CJ, to look her in the eye and hear what she had to say. How on earth could he take her case without first taking this absolutely necessary first step?
"Well?" asked Low-Fives, eyeing the lawyer's hesitation and not liking it. "Do you want to represent the scum or not?!"
"I . . ." Phoenix gritted his teeth, his brain trying and failing to form a decision. His hand was gripping the magatama in his pocket so hard that his palm started to hurt.
He wasn't going to change the officers' minds about seeing CJ, he could see that, but then how can he agree to take her case when all he knew about her was her name?
"CJ?!" Eileen gasped.
Phoenix and the two officers jerked their heads in the direction the little mole was looking, a stunned expression on her face.
Two gruff, unfriendly officers had walked out of one of the hallways, each gripping the arm of a young woman. And here, Phoenix Wright got his first glimpse of CJ, and he understood why Officer Low-Fives had referred to her as a 'cloudy gal.'
CJ was a cloud woman. Or, rather, a woman made out of clouds. She was dressed in a red and white stripped tank top, brown shorts, and a pair of black pointed shoes. Her arms and legs were skinny and pure white. Her hair was puffy and in the shape of a cloudy ponytail. A few of its poofy segments actually floated in midair yet followed after her as though connected through invisible strands.
For a brief instant, CJ's face looked lifeless and depressed, as though she was lost beyond hope — an expression and mood Phoenix had seen so many times in his clients. It wasn't surprising, though, given the two gruff officers holding CJ's arms, or the fact that her wrists were restrained by handcuffs. Other than this, however, Phoenix thought the cloudy girl looked rather pretty. Her face was smooth and without blemish, despite her obvious gloom.
At hearing Eileen's voice, the cloud woman looked up and her expression went from depressed to surprised. "Eileen?!"
"CJ!" Eileen cried again. She attempted to run over to her, but Officer Patriot blocked her path.
"Sorry, but no can do, Miss," he said in a cool voice.
Phoenix's eyes shot between CJ, to Eileen, and back to CJ, his heart suddenly racing.
"Eileen!" CJ cried.
"Quiet!" snapped one of the two gruff officers, and they both began dragging CJ to a door at the other side of the lobby.
"CJ!" Eileen cried, trying to reach out to her friend.
"Eileen!" CJ called as she was shoved along. "I didn't do it! I swear I didn't!"
"WE SAID QUIET, FILTH!" shouted the officers as they pushed CJ roughly through the door and out of sight as it slammed.
Horrible, heavy silence filled the station once again. But for Phoenix, this was welcome as his mind began working quickly.
CJ's words were replaying through his head. "I didn't do it! I swear I didn't!"
Phoenix's hand was still clutching his magatama: the mystical little stone that held the power to detect concealment and secrets from anyone he questioned or whenever anyone spoke. These secrets and/or lies appeared in the form of red locks and chains, and were visible to none but Phoenix.
And when CJ had shouted, swearing her innocence to Eileen, not a single lock or chain had appeared before Phoenix's eyes. . . .
That woman, CJ, was in handcuffs, being shoved off by mean-looking police officers, being accused of attempted murder. . . .
"Criminals," scowled Low-Fives, shaking his head and staring at the door where CJ had been forced through. "No conscience in any of them. It's sickening."
"CJ wouldn't do that!" Eileen insisted.
"Eileen, I'm sorry to tell you this, but the evidence is against her, and so is her history," Low-Fives replied, trying to sound reasonable but coming off as gruff. "Justice is Justice, and it will be served. That's the way of the law."
"But she needs a lawyer!" Eileen insisted, sounding both upset and frustrated. "Everyone has the right to due process!"
"And she'll be provided with it," said Officer Patriot simply. "We haven't found one yet, but Ms. Jay will be given a lawyer for her trial tomorrow. We just need time to get around to it after the station finishes prepping for the City-Wide Upgrade."
"No need, Officer," said Phoenix.
The two officers and Eileen both turned to him, looking confused.
"Mr. Wright, what do you mean there's no need to look for one?" Eileen asked.
Phoenix looked down at her and smiled, "Because I'll take her case."
The shock and surprise was plainly visible: the officers' was disbelief, the spectators' from the hallway was done in whispered murmurs, and Eileen's was stunned gratitude.
"You will?!" Eileen said, her smile growing. "You'll defend her, Mr. Wright?"
"Yes, Ms. Roberts, I've decided," Phoenix confirmed. He looked back up at the officers. "Officers, I will represent Cloudy Jay in court tomorrow as her attorney."
"Wha . . . what, are you crazy?" Low-Fives asked incredulously. "That girl is an attempted murderer! You'll only be hurting your career if you take her case!"
"Everyone is entitled to a defense," Phoenix repeated, ignoring the ghost's warning.
"Why bother if you know the person is guilty?!" Low-Fives asked angerly. "Don't be stupid! Are you that determined to soil your reputation?!"
"I'm sorry, but are you stupid?" Phoenix asked bluntly. Low-Fives' mouth fell open. He looked as though he had just been slapped. "You said it yourself, Officer Low-Fives: Justice is Justice. And as an attorney, it's my duty to help guide Justice towards the truth. And whatever the truth is, Officer, we'll learn about it in court tomorrow. I promise you on that."
There was another heavy silence. Phoenix and Officer Low-Fives stared at one another, both firm but different in reaction. Phoenix was determined and decided; Officer Low-Fives looked confused and a bit cross.
"Very well, then," said Officer Patriot, breaking the silence. They all turned to him. He still looked resolute, stern, and calm, like a seasoned soldier. "If that is your decision, Mr. Wright, then I will provide the paperwork to mark you down as Ms. Jay's attorney. If you really are determined to defend her in court, I will not stop you. But," he added heavily, and for the first time, he sounded deadly seriously, "I should warn you, Mr. Wright. By taking her case, other people will know about it."
"Well, of course they will," said Phoenix, a little curious as to why Patriot would state something so obvious. "If I'm to represent CJ as her attorney, it will have to go on record that I'll be defending her."
"That's not what I meant," corrected Patriot, looking sour at Phoenix's apparent inability to grasp his dire meaning. "I am referring to the consequences you will face by choosing to defend Ms. Jay."
"Consequences? What consequences?"
Officer Patriot frowned and gave a soft glare. "You seem rather slow witted. Not a good trait for an attorney or any credible person," he criticized mildly, "so let me make it clearer for you. From here on until the trial ends — most likely tomorrow, given the clear-cut evidence — you yourself will be judged and criticized. You see, Mr. Wright, like in the military, each flaw and criticism in court will count towards your reputation. A person's reputation is like a fine glass window: once it receives a crack, it's image will never be the same again. Over time, the crack will grow until the glass inevitably shatters. And after that . . . well . . . there's nothing after that."
There came yet another heavy pause. Phoenix, Eileen, and even Officer Low-Fives looked unsettled. It was one thing to hear such a firm, commanding voice come out from the police station's speakers, but to have the very same person speak in a calmer but equally dire voice . . . it was enough to give anyone goosebumps.
"Just something to keep in mind, Mr. Wright," Patriot said solemnly. "Now, if you will wait here, I will go fetch your paperwork. As for the rest of you," he turned to the officers and workers standing in the hallways, "RETURN TO YOUR STATIONS! NOW!" he commanded bluntly. At once, they all obeyed, hurriedly rushing back through the doors lining the halls, some of them tripping.
Turning back to the lawyer, Patriot calmly said, "Wait here."
Silently, Phoenix, Eileen, and Officer Low-Fives watched him walk away down the hall.
"Geez, he sure is dire on his words," Phoenix commented.
"I'll say," Eileen agreed, rubbing her arm to try and relieve her goosebumps.
"Hey, watch what you two say!" Officer Low-Fives snapped. "That man is our next police chief! Show him respect!"
"S-sorry," Phoenix said with a jump, his nerves a bit unbalanced from all the shifts between calmness and assertion. "I meant no offence. I'm just saying he's a bit serious."
"Well, of course he is! You should expect nothing less from someone who used to be in the military! He's not called 'Patriot' for nothing!"
"But . . . isn't 'Patriot' literally his last name?" Eileen asked, an eyebrow raised.
"Well . . . yeah, it is," said Low-Fives mildly, "but he's a man who's lived up to his name. His career in the military and as a police officer makes him the perfect pick for our station's next chief. He's even filling in for our current chief while they're out of town. Gives him a good chance to demonstrate his mettle."
"Sounds like he's had a lot of responsibility in his lifetime," Phoenix commented.
"He has. His last name, though literal, is a perfect example of that. As for your last name, 'Mr. Wright'," Low-Fives directed towards Phoenix, "we'll see in court tomorrow whether you live up to yours."
"For the record," Phoenix said in an attempt to lighten the mood, "I'm not perfect, Officer. I make mistakes just like everyone. Once, in court, I even had someone call me 'Mr. Wrong.'" At mentioning this, Phoenix couldn't help but chuckle lightly, thinking of the wise-cracking, clever blue unicorn he had met in another world.
But Low-Fives didn't crack a smile; quite the contrary. He glanced down at Eileen, his sunglasses catching the florescent light. "Keep your glasses clear and watch this guy, Eileen." And with that, the ghostly officer floated away towards the nearby hall.
"Geez," Phoenix said again, watching the ghost officer phase through a closed door. "I really didn't make a good first impression, did I?"
"Officer Low-Fives is just a little edgy towards strangers," Eileen explained calmly. "You're from out of town, Mr. Wright, and he doesn't recognize you. I'm sure he's just trying to keep on his guard. I mean, he is a police officer after all."
"Yeah, I suppose. . . ." said Phoenix, readjusting his necktie and agreeing with Eileen. Phoenix was far too used to being sneered at and shot suspicious glances; it sort of comes when you're defending people everyone else thinks to be guilty.
"Mr. Wright?"
He looked down. Eileen was glancing up at him with a curious expression.
"Did you mean it?" she asked. "Will you really take CJ's case?"
"Yes," Phoenix confirmed. "I will, Ms. Roberts."
"Even though you didn't get to talk to her?" Eileen asked. As thankful as she felt, it was impossible for Eileen not to feel a bit puzzled. She knew she shouldn't be looking a gift horse in the mouth, especially when she had zero luck with all the other lawyers she had talked to. However . . . Mr. Wright's sudden decision to defend CJ had caught her a bit off guard.
Phoenix could understand her questioning look perfectly. After all, he was the only one with a magatama. "Let's just say I have a . . . sixth sense for these sorts of things, Ms. Roberts," Phoenix tried to explain. "When I saw CJ, she didn't strike me as the kind of person who'd try and kill someone."
"She's not," Eileen agreed. "She's just got a little bit of a . . . temper," she finished, rubbing her hands uncomfortably. "But is that the only reason you agreed to defend her? Because of a mere instinct?"
"No, not just that," Phoenix said truthfully. "Actually, Ms. Roberts, I'm also taking CJ's case because of you."
"Me?" Eileen asked, surprised. "Why me?"
"From what I've seen so far since I arrived here in the City, and how Officer Low-Fives treated you, you strike me as someone who knows and recognizes good people, Ms. Roberts. I don't think you'd consider CJ a friend if she was someone heartless or violent. Plus, all the hard work you've gone through just to find CJ a lawyer, and the long hours you put yourself through, shows that you trust her and believe in her. So, with both my belief, and yours towards CJ, I think she's somebody worth giving a chance."
A little taken aback at first by this kindness, Eileen's cheeks prickled, and she smiled. "Thanks, Mr. Wright."
"No problem."
At that moment, Officer Patriot reentered the lobby and handed Mr. Wright the paperwork. "You can have a seat over at the couch and coffee table if you'd like," said the officer, pointing to said location. "I'll wait here until you finish."
Standing close by like a sentinel, Officer Patriot watched as Phoenix and Eileen sat down at the coffee table in the lobby's corner. There, the lawyer began filling out all the necessary information.
Eileen watched in silence, but as she did, she fidgeted with her hands, looking back and forth between the human lawyer and the paperwork. Finally, as though she had been holding her breath, bursting to say this, she said, "Uh, Mr. Wright?"
The lawyer paused in his writing. "Yes, Ms. Roberts?"
"Um . . . I know this is a little sudden, but can I ask for a solid?"
Phoenix blinked. "A what?"
"A solid," Eileen repeated. "It means a favor."
"Oh," Phoenix said, comprehending. "I . . . guess. What is it?"
Eileen paused, then asked, "Mr. Wright, would it be all right if I act as co-counsel with you in CJ's trial?"
"Co-counsel?" repeated Phoenix. He had not expected this.
"Yeah . . . if you don't mind," Eileen gave an embarrassed laugh. "I mean, I know it's a big responsibility, but I'm confident I can play the part, if just to give support if nothing else."
"Why, though?"
Eileen hesitated a little. "I really want to help CJ. I know she's not the kind of person to do something so horrible, and I want to be there for her, as her friend."
"That's very thoughtful," Phoenix said. "But is that the only reason?"
Eileen hesitated. "Well . . . the thing is . . ." she looked down at the cold, white floor of the police station, looking embarrassed, "I, uh, kind of . . . always wanted to witness a trial."
And just like that, it happened.
Before Phoenix's inner eye, the grinding and clanking of chains materialized into existence, and a large, single, bright red lock appeared, right over Eileen's center.
'A psyche-lock?! He thought, startled. 'But . . . but why?'
Phoenix eyed Eileen carefully, his analytic mind working fast and not finding any signposts. He knew that she was hiding the true reason for wanting to be his co-counsel; The idea had come all-too sudden. He believed her when she said she wanted to help CJ, but . . . was there something else behind her request?
On the other hand, Phoenix couldn't really see anything wrong with the idea of Eileen helping him. With Maya away at the Angeles Bay Burger Fest, he'll be finding himself alone at the Defense Bench during CJ's trial. The thought made him feel even more unprepared than he already was, not to mention oddly lonely for his beloved friend and quirky spirit medium.
"If you don't mind me asking, Ms. Roberts," said Phoenix, trying to sound as reasonable as he could, while also trying to wheedle towards the psyche-lock, "have you ever been to a trial before?"
"Well, not a real-life trial. But I have friends in college who are law students, and they've talked about their experiences in preparing themselves for the Bar Exam. Additionally, I took Intro to Court Systems & Trials during college, and I once participated in a mock-trial — just for some extra credit."
'Just for extra credit?' Phoenix thought, impressed. 'This girl sounds like a dedicated student.' "You weren't thinking of becoming a lawyer yourself, were you?" he asked, half-grinning.
Eileen laughed. "Oh, no, Mr. Wright. I'm just a girl with a lot of interests, and I just thought I'd try my hand at learning a few things about the law. That, and the extra credit, of course. Personally, though, I find the law a bit bland in some places, and even corrupt in some instances. No offense to you, of course," she added hastily.
"Hmm. . ." Phoenix thought it over. He could still see the psyche-lock floating hazily over Eileen's heart. Its presence felt suspicious. But, at the same time, part of her explanation felt genuine to him. Perhaps it just wasn't the whole truth she was telling?
"Okay . . ." he said. "Do you have a suit of some kind, Ms. Roberts?"
"Yep!" Eileen nodded. "I bought some for my business classes, and they still fit. I always like dressing for the occasion."
"All right, then," said Phoenix after hearing this. "If you wish, Ms. Roberts, you may join me at the defense bench."
"Oh, thank you!" Eileen said happily. "I promise I'll do my best to help out, Mr. Wright!"
"Thanks, and you're welcome," Phoenix chuckled, admiring her determination, even as the psyche-lock and its chains faded from sight. "In fact, Ms. Roberts, I think I'll do better if you help me. As of right now, I don't know anything about CJ or what may have led to her being accused, so anything you can tell me would be of enormous help if we're going to clear her name. And with the trial being tomorrow, we need to be as prepared as we possibly can."
"I agree. In fact, Mr. Wright, given that we need to prepare, I think I know where we can go to start gathering information."
"Oh?"
"Yeah, but first, we better finish this paperwork," she said, glancing to Officer Patriot, still standing stock still and staring at them. Though he remained stoic and they couldn't see his eyes behind his sunglasses, Phoenix and Eileen couldn't help but feel a glint of impatience from his otherwise patient expression. Or perhaps it was just their imaginations. . . .
"Alright," said Phoenix. "Here, Ms. Roberts. I need you to fill out this part here. . . ."
After a few signatures, and a couple other details, the form was completed. Phoenix and Eileen both stood up from the couch and handed the papers to Officer Patriot, who finally broke from his sentinel-like pose to take and study the form.
"Alright, that looks in order," he said. He fixed Phoenix and Eileen with one last firm look. "The trial begins tomorrow morning at 10:00 sharp. City Central Courthouse, Court Room No.4."
"10:00 tomorrow morning, Court Room No.4. Got it. Thank you very much, Officer Patriot," said Phoenix.
"Just doing my job," he said without the slightest trace of flattery. "I wish you both luck tomorrow."
"Thank you," said Eileen kindly.
Officer Patriot didn't smile back. "That wasn't a compliment. It was a condolence. Good day."
And with that, the stiff-as-steel officer turned away. His footsteps echoing off the floor, he marched down the hall and went through the same door as Officer Low-Fives, leaving Phoenix and Eileen all alone in the lobby with goosebumps as a parting gift.
And that's all for now. Feel free to leave a comment. Constructive criticism is always welcome. :-)