"A leave of absence? Are you serious, Apollo?" David asked.
"Could you at least give us a reason why?" Phoenix asked.
"I can only say... that this is something I must settle on my own." Apollo said before he turned to leave the agency.
"Oh Apollo…" Athena sighed. "Why are you shutting us out?" she asked herself.
David's Narration: Apologies for the mood whiplash… But by this point, you all are probably wondering how we got here. Well… As hinted at the end of the last trial, the Time Machine was on the fritz again. And just as we were all getting ready for the Perfect Link Tournament, too… Just our luck, huh? And to top it all off, Apollo has up and left us right when we needed him most. But… I'm getting a little ahead of myself. Let's start from the beginning, from when we arrived here last spring.
Galaxy King, Residential Level Lounge Area
"So, the Perfect Link Tournament is starting up again, huh?" David asked.
"Yup. The announcement for the Second Tournament came in our mailbox earlier today." Hope said. "It's set to start after the Paldea Region gets evaluated."
"I wonder what kind of new challengers we'll be expecting this time." Francisca said.
"Who can say? I have a few people on my mind, but I'm not sure if they'll be able to make it." David said.
"Even so, given how many universes have cropped up since last time, we can expect a very varied pool of competitors." Mayumi said.
"Yeah, especially since there'll be more of us competing this time." Zephyr said. "You and Nidoking are gonna need all your wits if you two wanna defend your championship title, Scott."
"I know that much. With two new regions filled with Pokémon that have been discovered since last time, we'll be expecting a lot of new pairings, for sure." Scott said.
"It should be exciting." Mark nodded as he looked over the invite. "Hmm…says here it's going to take a while for Paldea to be evaluated."
"Yeah, so until it does, let's train up our Pokémon for the coming days." David said. "And those of us that will be newcomers will need to start thinking about which Pokémon to pair up with."
"That's kinda hard to do since we don't know alot about them, Iceman." Hapi said.
"You really don't have to participate if you don't wanna, Hapi." Scorpia said.
"I beg your pardon?" Constance asked. "Participating in an event like this will help me bring glory to House Nuvelle!"
"Oh, it will?" Catra asked. "Thought it wouldn't suit you to do it and all that. Y'know… being royal and fancy and all."
"Leave Coco alone, Pussycat." Hapi said.
"Besides, who says royal status factors in participating in this thing?" Balthus asked. "All four of us decided we were gonna do it. Heck, even Yuri's interested."
"That I am." Yuri said. "I'm quite curious about the Pokémon and what they are like."
"And we're participating in the tournament too, even though we're princesses." Frosta spoke up, referring to herself and the other Etherians who had Pokémon.
"Of course, I'll be joining too." Ash said.
"Well, then if you Ashen wolves are gonna be participating, like David said, you gotta start thinking about what Pokémon you wanna be your partner. Perfect Links aren't exactly easy to figure out just like that." Hope said.
"I already know what I want. I want a Pokémon that hits hard and can grapple like me!" Balthus said.
"As for myself, it is a hard decision." Constance said. "I am quite skilled in the elements of fire, ice, lightning, and light magic."
"As some of us can attest, you are allowed to have more than one Perfect Link." David said. "Heck, we even know some people that have three."
"I see, then I must search for one or two comrades that are just as skilled in those elements as I am, hahahaha!" Constance laughed.
"Yeah, good luck on that." Emo deadpanned before Constance slapped her fan on his head.
"How about you, Hapi? You know what kind of Pokémon you want?" Hope said.
"Well since I'm skilled in Dark Magic, maybe I'll pick up a Dark-type Pokémon." Hapi said.
"Well, I used to go by the Savage Mockingbird, so naturally a Flying type that's based on a bird would be fitting for me." Yuri said.
"Oh, trust me, you've got plenty to choose on that front." Mermista piped in, cocking her head.
"But first, I think we'll wait until the Paldea Region is open to the public, there may be Pokémon there that haven't been revealed yet." Yuri said.
"Yeah, that may be a good call." Shun'ei said. "Speaking of which, Dave. How are things between you and Kyogre after the whole… you know."
"Zacian is chatting him up about that. But… I can kind of see why Kyogre would be a bit stunned. I mean, after KOF, my eye isn't crystallized anymore, and back in the Memory Universe, we saw…" David trailed off. "I'm still shuddering a bit about it too."
"Hard to imagine those guys we saw, could've been us if things went differently." Hope said. "I'm glad I didn't turn out like how Flux made my memory self."
"We all are. But… When it comes down to it, I guess I really am a monster." David said.
"Youre not a monster." Hope insisted. "If you were completely one, would you even be the man you are today? Showing compassion for enemies, being honorable even in a fight, and being a goddamn amazing leader?"
"Hope's right, man." Scott said. "I mean, think about it. Would your counterpart be able to do things the way you did? Hell no! You are one of the biggest brains we got here, and I will be damned if I let anyone else say otherwise. That stuff back in Wano, rallying all of our forces? Not many people can do that. So, we need you to pull yourself together and give it your best at this tournament. That's all any of us can ask for."
"Got it. Thanks, guys. I really needed that." David said.
"Hey, we can't have you thinking about stuff like that when the PLT starts. We're gonna have fun." Hope said. "But pertaining to that, we need to get ready for it."
"Right. We need to figure out a place where the ones with Perfect Links can train." Scarlet said.
"It should be somewhere that the hopefuls can find Perfect Links of their own." Double D said.
"Practically any of the regions are a good fit. We might need to do some training ourselves." Hope said.
"Yeah, you guys can do that. But I'll be working on my brain." Mermista said.
"Huh?" Adora said.
"Oh, don't tell me you haven't figured it out yet. The PLT isn't just physical, it's a mental game too." Mermista said. "Type comparisons, strategy and locations, all of that you've gotta think about."
"She does have a point. The last tournament took us to all sorts of locations where many competitors had the advantage, like Bubblaine and Mementos." Hope said.
"Not to mention the amalgamation of all the locations from Killer Instinct." Ace said.
"And that's why for the most part, I'll be hitting the books." Mermista said. "Crack a few mer-mysteries, all that stuff. Maybe I'll even see if I can solve some of the murder cases recorded by you guys on my own."
"You? Solve our past murder cases?" Kazuichi asked Mermista. "You couldn't even solve who was the Spy for the Horde right."
"Yeah, I did most of the work on that front." David said. "You were just hamming things up just for the sake of dramatic effect and based on random assumptions. That's not exactly helpful."
"Psh. That just wasn't the right situation for me to really give my brain a workout." Mermista deflected. "Gimme a real murder case, and I'll show you guys what I can do."
"(Geez… Even I'm not that cocky most of the time.)" David thought.
"We are quite curious as to how these modernized court cases work out as well." Lionel said.
"Same here, I always wondered what humans did in places like those." 9S added. "I only know basic information from the old world, but I want to learn more."
"I think you'll be in for a real treat there. Trust me 9S, y'wouldn't believe how fun things can get in some trials." Peacock said.
"Really? Aren't trials usually boring?" Makoto asked.
"Oh believe me, squirrel girl! In this Multiverse, court cases can get as fun as a scrap." Peacock said. "Especially when you're by the side of the Greatest Lawyer of All Time, Phoenix Wright! That guy's never met a case he couldn't prove anybody innocent in!"
"Well… There was one case." David said.
"Oh, right. Matt Engarde. I still remember that." Revali said.
"Who?" Petra M asked.
"He was an actor who hired an assassin to murder his rival. But thanks to some evidence, he got found guilty." Sunset said. "Hmm…you know…I do remember there was a case that involved someone being killed by a Yokai."
"Killed by a Yokai? You can't be serious." Shionne said.
"Oh, trust us, Shionne. These cases tend to take a turn for the bizarre real quick." Leopardmon said.
"Well I'm pretty interested in this. Was somebody actually killed by a monster or not?" DW typed in curiosity.
"Well we'd have to go to Nine Tails Vale. That's when the case started." Sunset said.
"Are you sure the time machine is gonna work this time?" David asked.
"No promises!" Tails said on the intercom as it started up as the Galaxy King vanished from that space and appeared over a small town.
April 17, 2027, 1:30 PM
Nine-Tails Vale - Yokai Lane
"Whoa…that's it." Sunset said with a smile.
"Notice: It is now the year 2027." Pod 042 said.
"2027? That's quite a ways away from our time, isn't it?" Sachiko asked.
"Well time does move differently in different places." Jexi said.
"Still, a festival like this brings some sparkles into my eyes." David said.
"You sure seem quite excited to be here." Ezana said.
"He lives in Japan, Tokyo to be precise. He's always about this stuff." Hope said.
"Not to mention all of that bushido that he practices. He's a samurai at heart, as you could tell from Wano." Francisca said.
"As for me…I happen to enjoy things about the Yokai." Sunset said. "This place is named after the Kyuubi…the nine tailed fox."
"Quite an interesting set of merchandise this festival has. Such devotion." Lionel said.
"I know, right? If you like Feudal Japan or any of its influences, this festival is definitely for you." Mayumi said.
"Still, it looks… quiet, down there. Where are all the people?" Hope said.
"It looks like they're gathering at that manor further ahead." 9S said, seeing some people walking towards a fancy-looking manor.
"That's Kyubi Manor. It's the home of the town's alderman, Rex Kyubi." Sunset said. "He protects the vault of a dangerous Yokai known as Tenma Taro."
"Analysis: Tenma Taro is a tengu-like monster that features in legends surrounding Nine-Tails Vale before being defeated by the Nine-Tailed fox and sealed away in the Forbidden Chamber." Pod 153 said.
"Looks like there's some sort of event going on over there." Hope said. "Why don't we disembark and take a look?"
"Why not? Could be fun." Hyde said.
"Uh, but before we go down, maybe we should make sure some of us don't stick out." Hope said.
"Oh right." Makoto said.
"We are not doing that." Jexi said.
"Yeah, just relax. We're fine here." Kurochi said.
"This is a village dedicated to yokai. We'll probably be seen as people wearing impressive yokai costumes." Catra said.
"Yeah, just lighten up and have fun." Yuzuriha added.
"Alright then. Let's go see what the commotion is about at the manor." Hope nodded as they departed towards the manor.
As soon as they did, they were startled as a bird-like creature appeared on the grounds.
"Whoa!" 9S said.
"Guys… I have heard about this before… Don't look directly at him." David said.
"Listen to your friend, you lot!" someone called out from nearby. "Lower your eyes! He'll steal your soul if you're not careful!"
"So that's…Tenma Taro?" 9S asked.
"Actually it's probably just some guy in a costume, but try to keep up the act." Hope whispered, covering his eyes.
"Yes. Listen to the little girl." Tenma Taro said.
"Uh actually…" Hope said.
"Better not get in my way…or I'll snatch all you up!" Tenma Taro said.
"Okaaay." A2 sweatdropped.
"Your devilry stops here and now, Tenma Taro!" a voice called out as a figure stood on the rooftops.
"It's him. The Legendary Nine Tails!" Sunset said.
"My nine golden tails are proof of my unassailable righteousness! With my band of 100 minions, I vanquish evil from the land! I am the wrestler of righteousness! Ya-ha! The golden lord of yokai, The Amazing Nine-Tails, is here! Fear not, good little boys and girls! For I shall defeat Tenma Taro! Ah-ha ha ha ha ha! Ah-ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!" the figure laughed as he jumped down.
The figure was revealed to be a muscular human with a cape that resembled nine tails and wore wrestling pants complete with a golden championship belt.. He wore a fox mask as he battled the demon before sending him packing.
"Worry not, children. I have sent the demon packing. Now, I must be off! Another match and another foe to vanquish!" he said as he ran off.
"That… was not what I was expecting at all." Bow said.
"That was like something you'd see at those kid shows in Japan." Hyde said.
"But that wasn't even…" Bow said as he was smacked.
"Don't be so literal. That wasn't the actual nine tails. He's a wrestler that uses the name. No one knows who he is but he took the nine tails place this year." Sunset said.
"Yep. It's actually part of the legend around here." David said. "These reenactments are quite the spectacle, aren't they?"
"It was pretty…interesting." 9S said.
"Lionel does not think he was convinced." Lionel said.
"Eh, it's not for everyone, I guess." David said.
"Never knew humans did stuff like this to entertain people." 9S said.
"You'll learn a lot about the stuff we do here in the present day." Vashyron said.d.
"Yeah…like…" Trish said as loud sirens were heard. "Like those nice sounding noisemakers."
"Pretty sure those are police sirens." Kaminari said as cop cars started reaching the manor.
"Something must've happened here." Rugul said.
"The manor… We should go take a look." David said. "I have a bad feeling about this…"." he said before the police blocked them off.
"Sorry kid. No getting in." the cop said.
"Officers, what happened here?" Ichiro asked.
"He's got a weapon!" one of them said as they jumped Ichiro as soon as they saw his swords.
"Ow…" he groaned.
"Look…there's been a murder here." another said. "The alderman, Rex Kyubi…is dead."
"Wait, are you serious?!" David asked.
"He was found inside the Fox chamber, dead via impalement. The maid to the manor was the one who announced it." the officer said. "She had claimed the killer was, and this sounds crazy… Tenma Taro."
"Tenma Taro? But that… That should've been impossible." David said.
"Yeah, we just saw him. How could he be able to enter the manor when he was forced to flee?" 9S asked.
"I'm sensing some foul play at work here…" David said.
"Look, is there someone who was actually convicted of the crime other than a monster?" Hope asked.
"There… There was someone else in the Fox Chamber with him." one of the officers said. "He was unconscious, and he was rushed to the hospital."
"He's the mayor of Tenma Town, Damien Tenma." the other officer said.
"And I'm guessing he's been accused of the murder?" Ezana said.
"He was the only other one in the chamber with the Alderman at the time. This case is definitely open and shut. No way Mr. Tenma is getting proved innocent." the first officer said.
"Hmm… Yes, under normal circumstances, it would seem hopeless." Ezana said.
"But… I think we're up to the task. What say you, Ezana, Lionel?" David asked.
"Wait, you guys wanna defend Mr. Tenma? You don't even have attorney badges!" one of the officers said.
"Yeah…we're not trusting some kid and his pals to…" the officer said.
"Then trust me." a voice said as a young man in red approached.
"And who are…"
"My name is Apollo Justice…I'm an attorney with the Wright Anything Agency." he said.
"Wright? Like Phoenix Wright?" X asked.
"There aren't any other guys around with a last name like that." Catra said.
"Are you all friends of Mr. Wright? He's told me about certain people who have helped him in his cases occasionally." Apollo said.
"Guess you can say that. We're acquaintances of his, yes." David said. "Though, you can definitely see some new faces among us."
"Hmm…I can defend the mayor and they can help." Apollo said.
"Hold it. I'm joining the defense too." Sunset said.
"I want to help too." 9S added.
"Lionel thinks this is a suitable arrangement, don't you think, officers?" Lionel asked. "As long as we are with this man, who is a qualified Defense Attorney, we shall be able to take the case of Damian Tenma, yes?"
"If that's really what you want, sure." the officer shrugged. "It's a lost cause if you ask me, but it's your choice to make I suppose. Good luck."
With that, the officers left the group alone.
"Thanks for stepping in to help us out, Mr. Justice… or should we call you Apollo?" Hope said.
"I don't mind either. And no thanks is necessary. I just happened to be nearby when I heard you guys were planning to defend Mr. Tenma in court. I was planning to do the same anyway." Apollo said.
"Still, thanks." 9S said.
"Pleasure to be working together with you then." Hope said.
"Pleasure's mine. So, suppose you guys already know what happened here?" Apollo asked.
"Yeah, we heard. Alderman Rex Kyubi was murdered inside his own manor, and mayor Damian Tenma was pinned as the one who committed the crime." Catra said.
"With good reason. Mayor Tenma's fingerprints were found on the Spear used to kill the Alderman." Apollo added.
"Okay…that makes it harder." Sunset said. "And he was in the room with the victim. Yeah…that does not look good."
"We're gonna have to pull a miracle out of our asses if we're gonna pull this off." David said. "But first things first."
"Yeah…we should see the suspect before we do any kind of investigation." Glimmer said.
It took awhile before the group headed over to the detention center.
"Let us hope he's not as scary as he is claimed to be." David said.
"Calm your nerves, young one. One most show courage in the face of fear." Eraza said.
"I know, Eraza. It's just that it has been a while since I have done this. I might end up being a little rusty." David said.
"You're fine, David. You're a natural at this." Hope said. "I faced you off when you were a prosecutor, remember?"
"Yeah, but that wasn't an official case." David said. "Still, we gotta look this guy in the face before we do anything, so let's face the music."
It wasn't long before a tall man in a green suit was brought before them. "Who are you?" was all he replied.
"Oh…you must be Damien Tenma. We're your defense team and…" Sunset said.
"...how….incredibly…rude!" Tenma said.
"We're sorry. We just…" Sunset said.
"Visitors have taken the time to come visit me and yet I have nothing to offer them. How very rude of me!" Tenma said.
"Phew… Good thing it's not us he is mad at." David said.
"Unworthy as I am, I, Damian Tenma, shall breach these walls... so that I may treat my benefactors to some tea, and maybe some cookies, too." Tenma said.
"Th-that won't be necessary, sir. We can treat you to tea and cookies after we get you acquitted." David said.
"Hmmm… I suppose that will have to wait, won't it?" Damian asked.
"Yeah. First, we'll prove you innocent of the crime you've been charged with." Glimmer said.
"So, Lord Tenma. Can you tell us what happened?" Ezana asked.
"We know why you were arrested. Your fingerprints were found on the murder weapon." Adora said. "Any idea how they got there?"
"None. For I hardly remember a thing, you see. I was fast asleep at the time." Tenma explained. "Someone must have slipped me a sleeping pill or something. What's worse, somebody clobbered me on the head."
"I see. A drug-induced sleep, and a knock on the head. That would knock the memory out of anyone." David said.
"But surely there was a possible motive in mind." Ezana said.
"Truth be told, there was a bit of trouble between the Alderman and myself." Tenma said.
"Was it personal?" Lionel asked.
"Nothing like that. It's a long story...but suffice to say, I've been pushing to merge Nine-Tails Vale with Tenma Town." Tenma explained. "Surrender Nine-Tails Vale to Tenma Town now!" he yelled, surprising some of the group, Bernadetta the most scared. "...That's what I told him."
"A-and that was the motive that was established for the murder?" David asked.
"He was against it so…yes. That is the motive they're going with." Tenma said.
"I see. So that's why they believed you killed him." Ezana said. "He was in the way of the merger."
"Curses! Jinxie, I did not wish to worry you like this!" Tenma declared.
"Jinxie?" Glimmer asked.
"My daughter. She is the maid at Kyubi Manor…. And was the first one to discover the crime scene." the mayor explained.
"Oh, so that's who the police were talking about." Hope said.
"Was she the one that placed those papers on his head?" Lionel asked.
"I believe so. Those papers are Warding Charms. They are said to be used to repel evil spirits." David said.
"Indeed they are. Jinxie applied them after the murder. She said they would keep Tenma Taro from possessing me." Tenma explained.
"There sure are a lot of 'em. You practically have a hat made outta em." Scorpia said.
"My daughter…she's already lost her mother so please…be good friends for her." Tenma said.
"Don't worry, Mr. Tenma. We'll get you acquitted, and look after your daughter." Glimmer assured.
"Then I shall rest easy." Tenma nodded. "You know, you all remind me of some of the new friends Jinxie has been talking about."
"Friends?" David asked.
"Yes…a woman with an incredibly long neck and a lad with a rather long tongue…" Tenma said.
"So she's been befriending Yokai." Sunset chuckled.
"Sounds familiar, doesn't it?" Hope asked.
"Not the weirdest descriptions we've heard." Mayumi said.
"Now then, I must be off. It appears my time is up." Tenma said going to leave.
"Y'know, he was a pretty alright guy. Dunno why he was ever scary." Kaibara said.
"Not sure." David said as he heard a phone ring. "Hang on a sec. I gotta take this." he said as he answered. "Hello?"
"David? Is that you?" a voice asked.
"Phoenix? It's been a while, man! How have you been?" David asked.
"Well after last time, I had my attorney's badge revoked for showing false evidence in a trial so…not too good." Phoenix said.
"Ouch… Sorry to hear that." David said.
"Now…mind handing the phone to Apollo? I have something I need him to do." Phoenix said.
"Right. Passing it over now." David said as he gave his phone to Apollo.
"Hi Mr. Wright. What can I do for you?" Apollo asked.
"Trucy told me you've taken on a new case, and by the looks of things, David and the others I've told you about are helping you too." Phoenix said.
"Yeah. It was kind of spur of the moment." Apollo replied.
"It's all fine, but I have a favor to ask." Phoenix said. "I'm at the airport right now. There was someone I had to meet. A new addition to the agency, actually. Her name's Athena Cykes, and she just passed the bar."
"(Oh, right. Mr. Wright told me someone new was coming to join the agency today.)" Apollo remembered.
"She took off as soon as I told her about the case. It was like there was no stopping her." Phoenix said. "I need you and the others to go find her. She's probably in Nine Tails Vale by now."
"But we've never even seen her before. What does she look like?" Apollo asked.
"Look for a young girl in a yellow suit sporting an attorney's badge." Phoenix explained.
"Okay, we'll find her." Apollo assured as he hung up. "Mr. Wright wants us to find a new member of the agency he came back with. She's at Nine Tails Vale. Apparently, she's here to help us on this case."
"So we just need to find her somewhere in the town." 9S said.
"Proposal: Unit 9S and his companions should search each part of Nine Tails Vale for Athena Cykes." Pod 153 said.
"Actually… I have a feeling she won't be hard to find." Hope said.
Hope's assertion was correct, as when the group returned to Nine Tails Vale, on Yokai Lane, they found the very young woman who matched Phoenix's description perfectly arguing with an officer.
"I. Already. Told. You! I'm a lawyer assigned to the case! I need to study the crime scene, so if you would please tell me where Kyubi Manor is...!" she insisted.
"You're not fooling me! You're just a delinquent high school student playing hooky!" the officer said.
"You pig headed…. This attorney's badge isn't just for show!" the woman argued.
"Wow, Hope was right. That was easy." Peacock said.
"Look…I've heard enough of your lies. You need to…" the officer said as he touched her shoulder before she went and flipped him onto his back, knocking him out.
"Whoa… She's got quite the reflexes on her." David said.
"Not bad." A2 said.
"Uh… did you mean to formally take down an officer of the law?" Double D asked.
"I have this thing about being touched. It was a reflex." she said.
"Anyway, my name is Apollo Justice. We're with the Wright Anything Agency. Mr. Phoenix Wright said you were joining." Apollo said.
"Ah…that Wright. Well, my name is Athena Cykes. Pleasure." she said.
"Nice to meet you as well. We heard from Phoenix himself you were aiming to help with our defense of Damian Tenma. Welcome aboard." Hope said.
"My name is 9S. But you can call me Nines if you want." 9S said. "I'll be joining you and Apollo in court on the defense bench with Ezana, Lionel, David and Sunset here."
"Well…I already scored something that may help. Take a look!" Athena said, holding up a newspaper.
"A special edition showing Tenma Taro…flying?!" Sunset said.
"Yeah, somebody happened to snap that photo near Nine-Tails Vale. The article goes on to say it might be connected to our case. Apparently, that photo was shot right after the murder occurred." Athena explained.
"When I came to the crime scene after Jinxie announced the murder, I did see black feathers and strange tracks inside the Fox chamber." Apollo said as he had a finger to his forehead. "It's no surprise the locals think it was a Yokai who initially committed the crime."
"Mein Gott, do any of you really belive this murder has super natural implications?" Athena asked.
"Maybe. Though, it seems unlikely." David said.
Hope added the Special edition news paper to the court record.
"Pod, can you copy this into your database?" 9S asked.
"Affirmative." Pod 153 said as she did so.
"Andale, everyone! Let's get cracking on the crime scene already!" Athena urged.
The group headed inside Kyubi Manor in order to investigate the crime scene at the Fox Chamber.
"The Fox Chamber is upstairs. I'm sure by looking around, we'll find some things to use at the trial to prove Mr. Tenma innocent." Apollo said.
"Right." 9S said as the group walked upstairs and stood before the Fox Chamber and saw the grisly sight. Alderman Rex Kyubi, laid dead on a coffee table with bloody tengu footprints on the floor with black feathers scattered about.
"Yick… With a sight like this, anyone would believe a monster would do this." David said.
"Sorry kids…but this area is off limits." a voice said as a large muscular man in white stood there. "'Fraid I'm gonna have to arrest the lot of you."
"On what grounds?" David asked.
"Trespassing on a crime scene for starters." he said.
"Wait wait…we're Mr. Tenma's defense team." Sunset said.
"Oh…is that right? And here I almost took you suspicious guys in." he said.
"(You're the most suspicious one here.)" David thought.
"Who are you, anyway?" Nami asked.
"I'm Bobby Fulbright! The heroic detective that stamps our evil. And I got a catchphrase too. "In Justice we Trust!"" he said.
"(Right…)" David thought.
"So, y'mind letting us take a look at the scene of the crime?" Peacock asked.
"Oh that's fine and dandy. Just don't expect to find anything helpful." Fulbright said.
"Why's he acting like we won't win?" Mai asked.
"Because the prosecution is going to cut you up before you make a case." Fulbright said.
"They already have a prosecutor lined up? Anyone we know?" Twilight asked.
"Not unless you know any prosecutors who are serving time." Fulbright said.
"I don't think he was joking about that." David said.
"A prosecutor who's serving time? How does this guy still have his law license?" Mark asked.
"He's a master in psychology and was requested by the chief prosecutor himself. He is the Twisted samurai, Simon Blackquill. He's what twisted this age of law into the dark era it now stands in." Fulbright said.
"A death row inmate who uses psychology to win cases… Well, no one said this was going to be easy." David said. "Guess we may as well choose our words very carefully when we go through proceedings."
"In the meantime, we'll just look around to be sure." Hope said.
"Right, I guess we 'start the investigation' as the saying goes?" 9S asked as the group began investigating before he spotted something. "What's this?" he said, picking up what appeared to be a small statue depicting a kyuubi and a tengu in combat.
"Watch it, 9S! That statue has blood on it!" David said.
"Blood?" 9S asked as he spotted blood underneath the statue. "Wait, Mayor Tenma mentioned he was clobbered on the head, maybe this statue was used to do so."
"Likley theory. A statue makes a good bludgeoning weapon." Adora said, making a note of the statue. "Let's see what else we can find."
"He's got quite an assortment of trophies as well." Kurochi said.
"Hmm… I see something by the window." Ezana said.
"Good eye, Ezana. There's something caught in its frame." David said.
"It seems like a tuft of golden fur. What is it doing here of all places, I wonder?" Ezana asked.
"Dunno. Did Alderman Kyubi have a pet fox?" Apollo asked as he added the fur to the record.
"Hey, there's something underneath this fallen armchair." 9S said, lifting it up and pulling out what appeared to be a bloodstained green cloth.
"Still, Tenma Taro was said to be sealed in that chamber before his supposed escape, right?" David asked. "I find it hard to believe that anything can get this thing open."
Fulbright chuckled. "Allow me to fill you in! This door simply will not open! We've tried and tried, but it won't budge! It's an essential part of the culture found in this manor, so we can't blow it up either!"
"Figured as much." David said. "This thing looks like it's sealed tight. Not even a mouse can sneak in."
"According to Ms. Jinxie Tenma, it was shut tight when she came across the crime scene." Fulbright said.
"So, the chamber was closed at the time of the murder." David said.
"Gah! Forget I said anything!" Fulbright said.
"Too late." David said in a cheeky tone. "Say, since you're here, Detective… What can you tell about that air duct over there?"
"What makes you think I'll tell you anymore, considering I'm the lead the detective for the prosecution?" Fulbright responded.
"Well, youre a man of justice right?" Hope piped in. "A guy like you wouldn't just abandon anybody in need with a just cause as big as yours. I bet you come running to anybody who needs a little help, right?"
"Yurk! I suppose I do say that! Helping those in need is what justice is all about, but... But keeping information out of enemy hands is also a form of justice!" Fulbright said, losing his position in thought. "Hmm... Aaaaargh! Which justice is the most just? Why is this always so hard!"
"Let's just do a little give and take. Serving the public is a part of justice too, right? Like the police motto, to serve and protect." Hope said.
"Yes, of course! I must serve and as well as protect!" Fulbright said. "Okay, I will share some information… in the name of justice!"
"Great, thanks Detective." Hope said.
"Now then, about that air vent you menaitoned." Fulbright said taking out a diagram of the Manor. "As you can see, it leads right into the main hallway of the manor."
"Perhaps the killer may have used it to escape." Rinwell said.
"Not possible." Lionel said. "The air duct in the hallway seems low enough to climb into, but the vent in the ceiling is quite high. Someone with strong legs could make the jump, but others would require a ladder to climb."
"And we did not see any ladders in this room." Ezana said.
"So we know why Mayor Tenma was convicted, and we have some bits and pieces of evidence that might help us." Hope said. "Still, everything points to Tenma as the primary suspect."
"You must admit that it's hard to refute, isn't it?" Fulbright asked.
"After we're done investigating, we may need to talk to Mr. Tenma again." Sunset said.
"Well then, knock yourselves out! Can't wait to see how you do in the trial tomorrow!" Fulbright said.
"Well, we'll be sure to do all we can, despite how things look right now. Now lets see, what else can we-" Hope said.
"Guys! Guys!" Peacock said rushing into the room, holding something.
"Peacock? Where were you, the crime scene is in here." Hope said.
"I was checkin' stuff out along the river, maybe seeing if anything got tossed out the window, not like I was slacking off…" Peacock said. "But anyway! Take a look at this! I found it washed up on the river bank!"
What Peacock was holding in her hands, to everyones shock… was the mask of the Amazing Nine Tails.
"That's…" Sunset said taking the mask. "Does this mean the victim and the Nine Tails are…"
"Hm? There is a white strand of hair inside this mask." Ezana said.
"Strange… We don't know anyone in this town with white hair." David said.
"The Nine Tails might've been murdered." A worried voice said as the group turned to a see a short man with raccoon eyes as he held a red cloth around his neck.
"Oh, hey there. Are you…one of the staff at this manor?" David asked.
"Oh, yes. My name is Phineas Filch, I'm the Caretaker of Kyubi Manor." Filch said. "You see, the Amazing Nine Tails is responsible for the wave of monster popularity sweeping Nine Tales Vale. There were even rumors that Tenma Taro killed him, and another rumor that the real goal of the merge was that Damian Tenma would gain access to the Forbidden Chamber and release Tenma Taro. And that mask you're holding had been in the caretakers office with Mayor Tenma's aide Florent L'Belle, but I hadn't seen anyone in the foyer."
"Release Tenma Taro? That can't be true, can it?" Ezana asked.
"Doubt it." 9S said. "But wait… the mask we have, that might explain the patch of gold hair we found at the crime scene, because it might've been there at some point before ending up near the river. Do you guys think that Rex Kyubi might've been…"
"Guys, is it really okay to be guessing a masked wrestlers identity?" Hope asked.
"Hope's right. It's kind of sacred." UlforceVeedramon said.
"Trust me, as a Pro wrestling fan, I know just how important masks are to some of them. Luchadors especially, considering they never show their faces ever. Taking masks off them or any masked wrestler is a disgrace." Hope said.
"I know, I'm not saying it would be him." 9S said.
"(Yeah, you were totally thinking it.)" David thought. "Theories aside, we can't rule out that possibility just yet. We can probably shed more light on this as we proceed through proceedings."
"What about that Jinxie girl Mayor Tenma mentioned?" Al asked.
"Being the first one to discover the scene of the murder, she's definitely gonna be a witness in the case." Vashryon said. "We'll get some info from her tomorrow."
"Yeah, some of us may be liable to having warding tags placed on us at the moment." Craniamon said.
"Oh, speaking of warding tags… think it's about time we went back to ask Mayor Tenma some more questions?" Peacock asked.
"Yeah." 9S said. "Honestly it feels strangely…exhilarating doing something like this for the first time. Is this what's it like for you guys?"
"Speaking from a detective's point of view, it's quite second-nature for us." Shuichi said. "We needed to make sure to leave no stone unturned to have all of the evidence for our cases."
"I see, I don't know if I'll be much help in the defense, but the least I can do is help find clues to help you guys." 9S said.
"It's okay if you wanna step down in court this time." Apollo said. "You've done a lot to help us so far, adding evidence we need."
"Thanks Mr. Justice, I'm a natural when it comes to gathering information." 9S said.
"You guys will be okay if its just the five of you, right?" Peacock asked.
"Don't forget I'm in this too." Sunset said.
"Yeah, we have a yokai expert with us. It's under control." David said. "(I think…)"
"Heh. I'm really not doubtin' this team we've got, it's just… when I was comin' back with the mask, I ran into this really pompous lookin' guy." Peacock said. "He said he was Mayor Tenma's aide, and when I told him you guys were on his defense, he just laughed and said something kinda insulting."
"I don't think I want to know." David said.
"Yeah, less said about what that guy told me, the better. He's a piece of work. Even his name gives away how snooty he is. Florent L'Belle? What kinda name is that?" Peacock asked.
"Ick, I get really bad vibes just hearing about him." Sectonia said. "Gives me memories of how I used to be. You remember that, right Peacock?"
"Oh yeah. I get the jitters just thinkin' about how you were back then." Peacock said. "Y'sure have changed since we last met. You're definitely past those days."
"Well… That's kind of what death does to some people." Sectonia said.
"Wait, didn't Filch mention a Florent L'Belle?" Ace asked.
"Hey, yeah, that's him! That's the guy I ran into!" Peacock said.
"Sounds like a real narcissist if you ask me. Erm… No offense, Sectonia." Shun'ei said.
"Don't worry about me, Shun'ei. I have long accepted that as a part of me. I won't let L'Belle get the better of me." Sectonia said.
"Such resolve, despite not taking on this case." Ezana said.
"She mostly turns her blade against women that emulate the dark side of beauty. She doesn't have interest in guys like L'Belle." David said.
"Well, we don't have to worry about him for now. Lets get back to the detention center." Hope said. "With all this new info I have a feeling that Mayor Tenma didn't really reveal everything about this Merger he was pushing."
Back at the detention center, Mayor Tenma was brought before the group once again.
"Do we really have to see him again?" Bernadetta asked nervously. "He really looks like a demon. What if he's possessed by Tenma Taro? I don't wanna get eaten!"
"C'mon Bernadetta, he's not that bad. He's actually a nice guy." Hope said.
"Well, he acts like one at least." Mark shrugged. "I don't think we have to worry about getting eaten, though."
"Oh, he's here!" Athena said as Mayor Tenma appeared before them.
"Mr. Tenma, good to see you again." Hope said. "This is Athena Cykes, she recently joined us on your defense."
"I'm looking forward to working with you, Mr. Tenma... Taro!" Athena introduced.
"Hm?!" Tenma asked, spooking some people yet again. "...Oh, yes. I look forward to working with you, too."
"(Whew, glad he can tell a slip of the tongue from malicious namecalling…)" Eddy thought.
"He is certainly…strange." Constance said.
"So… we came back because we wanted to ask you about some things we heard on our investigation." Glimmer said. "They say you wanted to or did set Tenma Taro free."
"What utter nonsense!" Tenma interjected. "They always assume the worst of me because of the way I look! But those rumors don't have a shred of truth, I tell you!"
"So, Lionel supposes we can say that rumor about releasing Tenma Taro as part of the Merger are just rumors and hearsay." Lionel said.
"Oh yeah. However, that seems to be what everyone is thinking right now." David said. "What I want to know is, why so adamant about the merger?"
"I merely wanted to acquire the village for tourism purposes." Tenma answered as the bottom of his right eye slightly twitched unnoticed.
Just then a gleam went off on the bracelet Apollo wore.
"Mr. Justice, your bracelet just glowed." 9S said.
"Yeah. I know. It's been awhile since it's felt tight." Apollo said. "Which means, Mayor Tenma might not be telling the whole truth."
"Huh? How can you tell?" Mai asked.
"People invariably tense up when they lie. That's where my bracelet comes in. I can sense when the person I'm talking to is feeling tense...because it begins to feel tight on my arm." Apollo explained.
"So you perceive said person, correct?" Yuri asked.
"Yes. I need to hone in on any tells when that person is saying something." Apollo said. "Leave this to me. I'll find the tic he made and catch him in his lies."
With his enhanced sense of sight, coupled with the detective power of his Bracelet, Apollo focused back in on Mayor Tenma and reviewed the last phrase he said from the very start, word for word.
"Yes, well, it's quite an attractive prize in terms of tourism."
This is how Apollo Justice can Perceive even the smallest nervous habit of someone who is lying. When he found mayor Tenma's right eye twitching at the mention of Tourism, he knew he caught him red handed.
GOTCHA!
"Mayor Tenma, you can trust us with the truth." Apollo said.
"The truth? I don't understand." Tenma said.
"When you mentioned tourism…. The bottom of your right eye started twitching." Apollo mentioned.
"We want to help you, but you have to trust us and tell the truth like Mr. Justice said." 9S said.
"Tell us the truth, please. Why were you really seeking to pull off this Merger so badly?" Glimmer asked.
"I already told you: tourism. The monster craze really revitalized the village, making it quite the prize." Tenma said.
"Lord Tenma… You don't trust us, do you?" Ezana asked.
"What are you talking about? The village has been hot property ever since the monster craze started, has it not?" Tenma asked.
"Ever since? Y'do know it only happened recently, right? And all because of this guy?" Peacock asked, pulling a Glossy of the Amazing Nine Tails out of her hat. "I got this from the caretaker of the mansion while I was… uh… combing the outside of the manor for evidence."
"And we think it connects to this." Sunset said, holding the mask.
"That's…what is the meaning of this?!" Tenma said in shock.
"There was white hair inside. The only one with white hair at the manor that day…was Rex Kyubi. He's the Amazing Nine Tails." Sunset said. "And rumors were that he was being blackmailed."
"No… that's not quite right." Tenma said. "You see… the one being blackmailed, was me."
"You? But why?" 9S asked.
"The reason I was so forceful in pursuing the merger was that I received a threat letter." Tenma said. "It said either I go through with the merger… or my Jinxie dies."
"Do you still have it?" Sunset asked.
"No. It was in my case but it vanished after the murder." Tenma said.
"I see…the killer probably took it once you were unconscious." Sunset said.
"Well, at least we know the killer's motive now." Ezana said.
"Yeah. They wanted the murder to happen at all costs so much that they blackmailed Mayor Tenma. And when things weren't looking so good, they resorted to murdering the aldermanan and pinned the blame on him." Glimmer said.
"So… We basically have to discredit whether a yokai is involved or not. I can already see the look of disbelief on the judge's face." David said. "Ezana, Lionel, Sunset, 9S, considering who we are up against… We might have to put in some elbow grease this time."
"Well, this will be quite a case to get back in the saddle. I really envy you, man. You're gonna have the ride of your life with this Simon Blackquill." Hope said.
"Yeah… I'm gonna have one heck of a time…" David said.