Chapter 8: Face-to-face With The Spectre

"I need to leave Misthallery now."

The others were taken back by Edgar's bold statement. Edgar didn't give them a chance to respond as he turned and walked away from them.

"Hey, where are you going?" Luke cried out as he try to keep up with Edgar while Layton and Emmy followed.

Edgar did look back, "To London. Official police business or whatever," Edgar vaguely explained.

"You can't just leave," Emmy argued back in slight irritation. She was tempted to grab him before he could get any further.

"Just watch me," Edgar countered as they turned on to the main road and headed towards the rope bridges.

"But what about the Spectre, Arianna and Tony, us? Your just going to leave without explaining why," Luke questioned further.

"I'm sorry. I can't explain... I just need to leave," Edgar said as he placed one foot on the rope bridge.

He needed to get out of Misthallery before Jakes could catch him. They would be safer if he wasn't around.

Layton stopped suddenly which made Luke and Emmy stop as well, "Is this about Jakes, Edgar?"

Edgar ceased walking, but he didn't dare turn around to face them.

"What!?" Emmy and Luke shouted in shock.

Emmy who was no longer irritated but concerned, turned back to Edgar, "Did he threatened you? Did he threaten us? Edgar please just explain," she begged.

Edgar didn't want to do this, but he had no choice.

"NO!" Edgar shouted as he now faced them, "I don't know you people! We've only met, like, yesterday! I wasn't even suppose to be part of this... is this even an investigation!? None of you are police officers!" Edgar pointed at Layton, "Your a bloody teacher," he pointed at Emmy, "your a glorified secretary," he finally pointed at Luke, "and your... five years old! What the hell am I doing with you lot!? For goodness sake, we're the only team in history where the majority of its members can't legally vote! I am going back to London, because I want to! Not because of Jakes, not because of the Spectre but because I bloody want to! So good luck with the Spectre and I hope I'll never see you people again!

And with that Edgar turned around and crossed the bridge. The others stared at Edgar's retreating form; wondering what could of made him change his attitude.

Luke was saddened by him leaving. He had been the only person who seemed to truly care about the Barde children's well-being. He also made him feel better after all this time. With Luke's father being a recluse and Luke's mother gone, Edgar felt like another person he could depend on.

Emmy wasn't doing any better than Luke. They had admitted to be friends, yet he was willing to just up and leaving them. She could tell tell that something was wrong, but he doesn't trust her enough to tell her or the rest of the group.

Layton could only feel concern for Edgar. He may have had been unwilling to join in the first place, but he could see Edgar become more and more interested over time. His meeting with Jakes obviously shook him up and he doesn't want to tell them what happened. If Layton didn't know any better, he would say that Edgar was trying to protect them from Jakes.

'I'm sorry' Edgar thought as he made it to halfway across the bridge, 'This is for the best.'

"The Spectre is going to strike tonight," Layton called out.

This made Edgar stop again. Layton stepped onto the bridge and walked towards the teenager.

"I'm aware that we hardly know each other and we've only met yesterday. However, what I do know about you, Edgar, is that ever since you talked to Jakes, you have not been yourself. You do not have to tell us what you two discussed and you are more than free to go back to London. However, I must insist on your assistance. We need your help if we want to get the bottom of this investigation and I know Misthallery's residents are dependent on us. Please do not let Jakes get to you," he placed a hand on Edgar's shoulder, "We are a team and we will work through this. After all, there is always another way."

Layton finished his speech and waited for Edgar's response.

Edgar has no idea what to do now. On one hand, he could dismiss everything Layton had said and get out of here before Jakes and his men catch him. Or he could stay behind and help. Perhaps he has been thinking about it all wrong. For most of his life he hasn't trusted anybody and all it got him was trouble. Maybe he could start trusting people especially ones that won't double cross him. That's exactly what...exactly what Agatha would do.

'These people are going to be the death of me,' Edgar internally moaned.

Edgar turned around to face Layton and then looked behind him at Emmy and Luke.

"Fine. But only because you lot would be useless without me," Edgar said with a smile.

The others smiled as well, happy that Edgar has changed his mind.

"So," Edgar turned to Layton as they walked back over the bridge, "where is the Spectre going to strike, then?"

"I'll explain on the way," Layton said as the met up with Luke and Emmy.

As they were walking towards the Middle Town, Emmy and Luke walked beside Edgar.

"Thank you for changing your mind," Luke said gratefully.

"We know it's hard for you to trust people especially in your line of work, but we really appreciate you being here," Emmy added, "and whatever Jakes is planning; we will stop him like we stopped his thugs."

Edgar smiled at the two. He appreciated their kinds words and for almost a second felt safe for the first time in a very long while.

Emmy suddenly punched him sharply on the arm, causing him to cry out in pain.

"That is what you get for calling me a glorified secretary," Emmy scolded him, "also I am definitely old enough to vote."

"And I'm nine years old, not five," Luke complained.

"Technicalities," Edgar casually said, waving off their complaints.


Highyard Arch

Before confirming his deductions, Layton asked Luke who knew of his Spectre predictions. Luke said that only Doland knew as he would pass the information onto the police who would organise the evacuation. He promised Luke that he wouldn't mention Luke's involvement to the police.

Layton also asked Luke where the Spectre would strike next. Luke was unsure, but Layton proposed his own prediction of it happening in the Upper Town near Highyard Arch. Layton explained how he knew by using Luke's notes on the Spectre attacks which Edgar and Emmy were unaware of until now. According to the notes, the Spectre never attacks the same building twice and it has appeared in the same area on more than one occasion, but it spreads out its attacks.

Layton explained this to them on their way to Highyard Arch. Edgar couldn't help but think it was weird that the Spectre was attacking in any sort of pattern. He would assume a giant monster would attack randomly, but to Edgar it seemed like it was... covering as much as the village as possible.

They've arrived at Highyard Arch, named after the high bridge that connected two buildings across the canal. The path ran along the canal to the Grand Plaza in the north.

"It looks like your prediction is correct, Mr. Layton," Luke mumbled, looking at the canal.

"Why do you say that, Luke?" Emmy asked as she turned to the young boy.

"The Spectre will appear tonight," Luke answered vaguely.

"Really?" Layton asked, "Please go on."

Edgar also walked up to bank of the canal and noticed something. He smiled, 'Of course, that's how he did it.'

"Will someone please tell me what is going on?" Emmy tiredly questioned.

"Emmy," Edgar called out, pointing to the canal, "you see anything weird about the water?"

Emmy looked at the canal. Nothing seemed to be obvious, it was just water flowing through a canal, a common sight in Misthallery. However, as she was turning towards Edgar, she did notice the layer of green algae on the side of the canal was much larger than usual. That's when she realised.

"The water level," Emmy said, "it's very low."

Edgar gave her a half smile, "It was the same last night by the hotel," Edgar told her before turning to Luke, "is this a sign of the Spectre?"

Luke nodded, "I should tell you something, all of you," Luke said turning to face the others, "Of course, by now, you know that I'm not some supernatural oracle. I've been able to predict when and where the Spectre would appear because of one simple thing. I first noticed the water levels in the canal by chance. I was walking through town on a day just like any other when I noticed the low water level in this one area. Then, later that night, the Spectre appeared. It appeared where the water level had fallen below normal. I though it might have been coincidence, but I started tracking the water levels, just in case. After that, it was clear that there was a definite correlation. Whenever the water level fell, that meant the Spectre would attack there that night," Luke explained, much to the amazement of the others.

"You...you can up with all that by yourself, Luke? Wow!" Emmy exclaimed, impressed by Luke's deduction skills.

"Not bad. You make a good detective one day," Edgar said, ruffling Luke's hair, "But what does that mean? Why does the Spectre need so much water to appear?" he asked Layton.

Layton shook his head, "I'm not quite sure, Edgar."

"Wait a second. Luke, why did't you tell us this earlier? This could've been helpful information," Emmy asked with a small frown on her face.

"Come on, Emmy," Edgar answered, "obviously he didn't trust us yet. Can't say I blame him."

Luke nodded in agreement causing Emmy to sigh in exhaustion.

"What I quite like to know," Edgar added, "is how you are able to get this information when stuck in your room?" he asked curiously.

"Well," Luke said reaching into his pocket, "I had help from my friend here. Say hi to Toppy!" Luke declared happily before taking his hand out of his pocket and presented its contents to the group.

To everybody's shock, in Luke's hand was a grey mouse.

The mouse, known as Toppy, squeaked and rubbed his whiskers with its front paw.

...

...

...

...

"IT'S YOU!" Edgar shouted pointing at the mouse, "THAT'S THE BLOODY MOUSE THAT'S BEEN RUNNING AROUND THE VILLAGE!"

"What are you talking about?" Emmy asked, looking at him like he just went insane.

"This mouse has been scampering around the village, I thought I was going mad," Edgar explained, "but what does that have to do with information gathering?"

"I told you," Luke replied matter of factly, "He's my friend. I can't understand everything he says, but I can understand enough."

Edgar and Emmy looked at Luke with perplexed stares. They looked at each other, confirming that both heard what he said, before turning back to Luke.

"...So you...you can talk to mice?" Emmy asked hesitantly.

"Wait a minute, is this how you knew me when we first met at the hotel? Via rodent," Edgar asked.

Luke nodded causing Edgar to sigh.

"Luke, I don't think it's wise to tell people that piece of information," Edgar said, "I mean, what sort of weirdo would claim they can communicate with animals."


Meanwhile in a parallel universe

Two ten year olds, one a boy with brown hair and the other a girl with pink hair in two large ringlets, and a rodent like creature with red cheeks were travelling through a forest.

"Achoo!" the boy suddenly sneezed, covering his mouth and nose with his hand.

("Bless you,") the rodent squeaked as he leapt onto the boys shoulder.

"Thanks. That's strange where did that sneeze come from?" the boy asked, he doesn't usually get hay fever and there wasn't any dust floating around.

"Maybe somebody somewhere is talking about you," the girl suggested with a shrug.

"Well, I hope they weren't insulting me," the boy grumbled, making his travelling companions giggle.


Back to this universe

"I don't understand it any more than you do, you two!" Luke said, seemingly not bothered by their comments.

"Well, we have seen stranger things since we arrived here," Layton said unaffected by Luke's revelation that he could talk to animals.

"We have?" Edgar dryly muttered.

"So, Luke, the Spectre will appear tonight?" Layton asked the boy while he placed Toppy back into his pocket.

"Yes, if my theory is correct," Luke confirmed with a nod.

"Professor, are you sure about this? I mean...really," Emmy voiced her concerns.

Layton turned to her, "Let us see if Luke's theory holds water, so to speak," Layton said laughing slightly at his unintentional joke.

Edgar just rolled his eyes at that.

"...um, should we tell Doland so he can alert the police?" Luke suggested.

Layton shook his head, "Actually, no. Let's evacuate the residents on our own this time."

This confused the rest of the group.

When they asked why, Layton replied, "We are going to set a little trap for the Spectre," he explained.

Edgar smiled broadly, "Nice, Scooby Doo style. I like this plan already," he then pointed at Emmy, "I volunteer Emmy to be the bait."

Emmy turned to him furiously, "Why am I the bait!? I am a more useful part of this team then you."

Edgar just smirked back, "Because you're dressed so brightly the Spectre will see you and you probably taste the nicest."

"That's ridiculous!" Emmy countered, "besides, Luke would make the better bait!"

"What!?" Luke cried out.

As the three childishly bickered with each other, Layton sighed in exhaustion. Edgar may have had a point about the majority of the investigation team being underage. Although, he had to admit, it was good to see Edgar back to his old self after his run-in with Jakes.


Unknown Place

Meanwhile

We return to the dimly lit library where the mysterious figure sat drinking a cup of tea.

The flames of the candelabra flickered as the door to the library opened and closed.

Chief Jakes made his way to the mysterious figure, concern covering his fat face.

"We got a bit of a problem," Jakes said to the figure.

The figure sipped his tea before responding, "I assume you're referring to one Hershel Layton?" he asked in bored tone, "I must decide on a plan of action for when he finds out... and he will find out."

Jakes snorted, "You already know about this guy!?" he asked.

"I do," the mysterious figure confirmed, putting his cup of tea down on the table, "fate is so...interesting sometimes," he chuckled lightly.

"And what about the boy?" Jakes inquired further.

The figure hummed, "He's a smart one, he can definitely outwit you," Jakes grunted, but didn't voice his complaint, "however, as long as he's locked up and labelled a criminal, he won't be much of a problem."

Jakes grunted again and left the room.


Highyard Hill

Layton eventually broke up the fight.

"Professor, how are we going to tell everyone in the area to evacuate without of the police?" Emmy asked curiously.

Layton hummed in thought, "Luke, do you know anyone who could take swift control of an operation like this?"

Luke thought of a moment before coming up with a suggestion.

"I bet Greppe would do it! He loves ordering people around. If Greppe told people to leave, they would definitely listen to him. He's probably still complaining over at Paddy's Place"

"Cool, all we need to do is lead him out of the restaurant, get him divorce his hot wife and make him help us evacuate the area," Edgar said, ignoring the glare Emmy was sending him for the second point.

"Actually, Edgar," Layton said, "I would like you to recruit the Black Ravens. We need their help to create a trap so we can establish the true nature of the Spectre. Also I don't believe, especially after the cherry bomb incident, Greppe would want to help if you came with us," he admitted.

"Oh come on," Edgar said with a small laugh, "It's not like he would be still angry at me, that was ages ago."

"It was this morning," Luke corrected, causing Edgar to become confused.

"Really?" Luke nodded, "huh, I could of sworn it was months ago," Edgar mused.

(A.N: One month and 16 days to be exact (At the time of writing this). That's the problem with these long chapters.)

"Anyway, tell Crow that.." Layton began to describe the trap to Edgar. Now fully understanding the plan and agree to meet at the hotel after they were done, Edgar took off to the market as fast as possible.


The Market Centre

"Oi Crow!" Edgar shouted across the market to the leader of the Black Ravens.

It was coming to the end of the day so the market wasn't as crowded. Vendors were starting to pack their stalls away for tomorrow while Crow watched as he leaned against a wall.

Crow looked up from to see Edgar coming his way, "Well, well, well...if it isn't our very own city boy. What can I do ya for?" he greeted.

"The prof needs your help. We are setting a trap for the Spectre," Edgar explained as he leaned on the side of a nearby table.

"A trap for the Spectre!" Nice!" Crow grinned, before he gave a sly expression, "But what's in it for me?"

"Oh yer know, saving the town from a creature hellbent on its destruction. A town that you and couple thousand other people live in. The usual do-gooder scenario," Edgar quipped casually.

Crow raised an eyebrow, "Look, city boy, this town never did nothin' to save me. So why should I do what you say," he countered.

Edgar was about to threaten him, but he didn't want to lose favour out of the rest of the Black Ravens. So he decided to try another method.

"Fine, fine," Edgar said, holding his hands up in front of him lazily before turning around, "I guess I have to tell the Prof that the Black Ravens were too scared."

That caught Crow's attention.

"Whoa! What's that, pal!?" Crow exclaimed angrily, making Edgar grin, "We're not afraid of nobody! Besides...how can you catch it if you don't even know where it is?"

Edgar turned around to face Crow again, "We're going to do what that fat toad of a police chief has failed to do," Edgar responded, "We're exposing the Spectre for what it truly is."

Crow sniffed, "That's some big talk. You really think you can pull that off?"

"I don't think, I know I can. I bet Jakes has been an annoyance, poking around in the Raven's business," Edgar smiled as he saw Crow frown when he said that. Obviously, Jakes has been a thorn in his side for too long.

"Not only are we going to help Misthallery, but we going to show that beached whale for the fraud he is. You interested?" Edgar asked.

Crow pondered this for a moment. Jakes has been sending more officers into the market lately. It would good for the Ravens to knock him off his high horse.

Crow smiled and played with his scarf, "Sure, what do you need from us?"

"Well..." Edgar explained the plan to Crow. The leader of the Black Ravens went off to gather the rest of the children while Edgar headed back to the hotel to meet up with the others.

As Edgar left the market, he thought about leaving Misthallery again.

However, he promised the others and...he couldn't disappoint them.

He sighed and hoped everything will be alright.


Hotel

Edgar kicked off his shoes and laid on his bed. He's been walking all day, up and down hills, to and from and London, chasing children dressed as mysterious figures through markets. For the first time today, Edgar could relax.

Layton, Emmy and Luke had managed to convince Greppe to help with the evacuations of Highyard Hill and everything was prepared for the night. Layton proposed that they get some rest before the stake out at midnight and Edgar was mora than happy to comply.

It's been a funny sort of day. Finding the black market, chasing the Raven, going to Barde Manor, meeting Arianna and Tony, the whole mess at Scotland Yard, meeting Jakes, it's been a lot to take in.

Edgar turned his head to the left to see Emmy by the window putting her flower bouquet in a vase. She seemed to like the flowers despite the unusual combination. He turned his head to the right to see Layton and Luke sitting at a table and drinking tea. Luke seems to have come out of his shell since this morning and was happily chatting with the Professor.

He turned his head to the ceiling and closed his eyes. He has been feeling a little better since arriving at Misthallery. More relaxed, more at peace. He will never truly get over what happened the previous week, but today has definitely helped. He supposed that's what happens when you talk to people, even if it's people you don't know. Humans can't live without a lot of things, water, food, air etc, but human conversation is just as essential.

Food and water may keep you alive, but human interaction is what makes life worth living.

These thoughts swirled around his head and eventually he drifted of to sleep.


Highyard Arch

Midnight had arrived at the team were in stake out position.

Layton had taken a hiding spot down an alley, Emmy was leaning on the railing of nearby park, Edgar was leaning on a lamp post and Luke was hiding at the bottom of a rowboat.

The air was crisp and and there was little wind. It was eerily silent except for the sound of rushing water and Edgar occasionally whistling the theme to 'The Muppet Show' out of boredom.

Edgar put his hands deeper into his pockets. He cursed himself for not wearing something to keep out the cold; a leather jacket can only go so far. He saw that the fog was getting thicker by the minute. Thick enough that the lamp above him was barely recognisable except only for the faint glow of the already dim light.

The Spectre was coming.

The music started to play again. Like the previous night, it was gentle and beautiful, but Edgar was having trouble finding where it was coming from. It seemed to echo around him.

That's when the loud stomps started to begin. Edgar ran towards it.

Layton peered around the corner of the alley. The silhouetted form of the Spectre trudged along towards Layton's position. The Spectre stomped towards the high bridge that connected and smashed though it sending masonry and dust everywhere. Layton had to hold onto to a building to keep himself falling over due to the shock waves.

Fortunately for Layton, the Spectre, being careless on its route, had tripped over and smashed into the ground kicking up my dust and debris. Its head had landed right next to Layton's alley.

Its dark slender arms picked itself up and the Spectre red piercing eyes stared at Layton. Now that he was close enough, Layton could now see what the Spectre was.

Layton gasped in realisation, "So this is our...Spectre."

The Spectre ignored Layton as it picked itself up and continued it's journey down the canal. Layton tried to pursue it, but it had already disappeared into the fog, leaving the destruction of buildings and lamp posts behind.

Layton heard the Spectre's flute play once more, before the music vanished as well.

He heard running foot steps behind him. He turned to see Edgar and Emmy, who he could see clearly as the fog began to disappear.

"Professor!?" Emmy called out, "Are you okay?"

"Professor!" Luke shouted as he ran from his position towards them.

"Did you see it?" Edgar asked seriously.

Layton nodded at the teenager, "Oh, yes. I got a very good look," Layton replied with certainty.

He turned to face the entire group, "Emmy, Edgar, Luke... the Spectre is not at all what we had imagined," Layton told them holding his hand to his chin in thought.

"Can you please spare us the theatrics, Prof," Edgar complained, "I'm dying to know here."

Emmy stomped on his foot to shut him up.

Layton started again, "It appears to be-"

The sound of police sirens stopped Layton from continuing. They turned to see a squad of Misthallery police officers blocking the path behind them. They turned towards the other end of the street to see, not only another squad of police has blocked the road, but also the form of police Chief Jakes leering down at them.

"There they are! Get 'em boys!" Jakes shouted as the officers began to arrest them.

'Damn It! Not now!' Edgar though in panic. He tried to break free from the officer's grip, but two other police held him down as the put handcuffs over him.

"Layton, you and your comrades are being arrested for organising the whole Spectre mess and..." Jakes turned to Edgar with a sneer, "harbouring a dangerous criminal."

"What are you talking about?" Luke shouted as an officer pushed him towards a van.

"What criminal? Your making this up!" Emmy added as two officers pushed to the van.

Edgar felt a feeling of dread as he was pushed down into the back of the police van as well.

As Layton was getting forced in, Jakes turned to him, " I warned ya, Layton! Keep yappin', and I'll slap you with resisting arrest too!"

"Jakes, you know just as well as I do that we aren't the ones behind the Spectre! The Spectre isn't what you think!" Layton persuaded, but Jakes didn't falter.

"Now, that's just sad, Layton," Jakes smirked disgustingly, "I though a true gentleman always owns up to his crimes? Har har!"

"As for you," Jakes said turning to furious Edgar, "I warned you. I gave you the opportunity and now your going to suffer."

Edgar kept his head down miserably, not bothering to look up.

This was it.

It was inevitable.

Jakes slammed the van door, "Take them away!" he shouted at the driver.

As the van roared to life, a gas spewed from a nozzle from the floor. They tried not to breath it in, but it was too late. One by one, the team fell unconscious as they were ferried to the police station.


Misthallery Police Station

Edgar woke up with a start. He felt the cold hard floor beneath him and the warm morning light trickling though a high window. He looked around to find, to his horror, that he was in prison cell. The walls were painted a drab grey and the only exit he could see was the heavy metal door in front of him.

The sounds of groaning caught his attention, discovering that he wasn't alone in the cell, Layton, Emmy and Luke started to wake up as well.

Layton was the first recover as he looked around the cell. He was about to ask Edgar if he was alright when the clattering of metal keys caught their attention. The cell door swung open to reveal Jakes with his usual sickening grin.

"Have a nice nap?" Jakes asked mockingly as the team started to shakily climb to their feet, "How do you like our cells? I like to keep our suspects cozy?"

"Let us out!" Luke shouted, "We didn't do anything!"

"Easy, Luke," Layton assured, placing a hand on the young boys shoulder.

"What do you want with us?" Emmy asked angrily, "I demand to see my lawyer!"

Jakes chuckled, "You've been reading too many pulp novels, missy. Once I explain to everyone that you all are responsible for the Spectre and you have been harbouring a criminal, you'll get your lawyer."

"Harbouring a criminal?" Luke asked in confusion, "Your accusing us of false crimes!"

"Luke..." Edgar started to say, but he was cut of by Emmy.

"We are all respected members of society, I have you know," she defended.

"Emmy please..." Edgar try to say before she continued.

"The Professor is a researcher at Gressenheller University and I'm his assistant, Luke is just a child and Edgar..."

"Exactly," Jakes cut her off, "who is Edgar, hmm? He's not part of the University, he's not from Misthallery. He's just somebody you just happen to bump into. A complete stranger."

Emmy hesitated slightly. She turned to face Edgar in concern who just kept silent not looking up from the floor. She turned to Jakes with a smirk.

"Well... for your information, Edgar is a trainee detective for Scotland Yard working under Inspector Grosky," Emmy told the chief.

Jakes stayed silent for a moment. All he did was was stare at the proud-looking Emmy and then at Edgar who still hasn't looked up yet. That's when he started to laugh. It was small at first, but it eventually grew into a large bellow-like laughter. Emmy and Luke were obviously confused by this, however Layton, to Edgar's wonder, seemed unaffected by this.

Eventually, Jakes laughing fit started to die down, "Trainee detective? TRAINEE DETECTIVE? Is that what you told them," Jakes choked out between chuckles, "I don't know what is my stupid, your terrible lie or them for believing it."

"What's so funny?" Luke demanded before turning to Edgar, "what's going on?"

"That over there, boy," Jakes answered with a smug grin, " is Scotland Yard's most wanted. He's been breaking into the houses of innocent, law-abiding people and stealing anything valuable that wasn't nailed down among other crimes. Scotland Yard have been trying to catch him for three years now and I don't think there's a single officer that wouldn't want to nick him on sight. However, since I was the one who caught him, I will be the one getting the special recognition. I'll probably get a reward or a promotion or maybe both. That sounds nice," Jakes explained.

Emmy and Luke stared at Edgar in shock and sadness while Layton seemed neutral about the news.

"This isn't true, is it Edgar?" Emmy asked in an upset tone, "Jakes is lying, right? Right?"

Edgar didn't respond. He sat down on the floor of the cell and leaned on the wall.

'This is it. This is what I was afraid of,' Edgar thought sadly.

"Face it, you lot," Jakes continued, "he never cared for any of you and I've got the proof right here."

He took a tape recorder out of his pocket and played it for the whole room to hear.

'Listen here...' Edgar instantly recognised his own voice coming from the tape recorder. He sat up straight in shock, he cannot let them hear what he said yesterday.

But it was too late.

'...they are not my friends. If they are anything, I am using them so I can get out of this bloody town. I do no favours for anyone.'

Edgar shot up from he was sitting and ran towards Jakes intent on harming the obese man. Jakes slammed the cell door before Edgar could reach him.

"YOU BASTARD! LET ME OUT NOW SO I CAN WRAP MY HANDS AROUND YOUR FAT NECK!" Edgar screamed in fury as he banged on the metal door.

'How dare he record me!' Edgar shouted internally.

"I'll get comfortable in there, if I were you. You'll be in there for a long time," Jakes said from the other side of the door. Edgar could him chuckle as his foot steps grew further and further away.

Edgar stopped banging on the door, knowing there was no use. He didn't dare turn around to meet the other stares.

"Well!" Emmy shouted, "aren't you going to say anything!"

"What is there to say," Edgar calmly replied.

"Why did you lie to us, Edgar?" Emmy inquired furiously.

Edgar turned to her furiously, "Why shouldn't I? I was having a lovely time in Misthallery before you two showed up and started messing things up for me! I tried to get you people of my back, but no! You just had to drag me into this...Spectre rubbish! So yes, I lied to you all! Well done case solved!"

Emmy stomped towards him, "We trusted you with a serious case! For goodness sake, it all makes sense now! Your delinquent attitude, your pick locking tool kit... this is why you didn't want me at Scotland Yard, so you can steal the case file and why Grosky is coming to here. I can't believe I was so stupid."

Edgar was about to retort when he head a sniffing sound coming from beside him. Edgar turned to see Luke with tears in his eyes. His expression of betrayal and sadness was directed towards Edgar.

"We're you really just using us, Edgar?" Luke sadly asked, each word stab Edgar's heart like sharp knives, "I thought we were friends."

"We are, Luke," Edgar reassured stepping closer to Luke. Luke took a step away from him in fear.

"I said that because...well at first I...it doesn't matter why. Luke, please don't be scared of me. I'm still Edgar. I want to help Misthallery. Please," Edgar begged.

Luke just took a step back and Edgar's heart broke even more.

He took in Luke's sad expression. He was somebody who looked up to him as a sibling he's never had. Edgar had comforted him when he was having trouble with his dad, promised to help his friends the Bardes and made him smile for the first time in months. But now that awe is replaced with betrayal and Edgar had complete stranger to him.

He looked to Emmy's seething mood. They had a rocky start, but they had eventually became friends. Often teasing each other and getting in petty, but friendly squabbles. Now she glared at him with complete and utter rage. They were back to be hostile to each other.

Edgar's nightmare has become real.

Edgar had noticed that Layton hasn't said anything in a while. He didn't know what to expect. Ire? Betrayal? Disgust? A mixture of all three? However, when Edgar looked at him; it surprised him. He wore a neutral expression. Maybe a little bit of concern. Edgar was confused. He has lied to his face the moment they first met and yet he's only displaying a cool expression. It was like Layton... it dawned on Edgar.

"You knew," Edgar simply stated, "you knew who I was all this time."

Layton simply nodded.

"I'm afraid that Scotland Yard has updated their I.D card design from the one you showed us. Your card is two years out of date," Layton explained casually as Edgar gave a frustrated sigh.

"Of course you would notice that," Edgar muttered taking out the useless card from his pocket and throwing it on the cell floor, "I was doomed from the start."

"Wait a minute, Professor," Emmy said in shock, "You knew who he was all this time."

"Well, I didn't know who he was per se. I just knew he wasn't giving us the whole truth," Layton admitted calmly.

"So that's why you wanted me to join the investigation, to keep an eye on me," Edgar said sitting on the cell floor again.

"You deduct correctly," Layton agreed with a nod of his head, "I wanted to see the type of person you were before coming to a judgement."

"And what, pray tell, did you uncover?" Edgar asked in a sarcastic tone.

Layton was unfazed by Edgar's tone, "You are brash, mischievous and would prefer to make your way though your life violently rather than with peaceful negotiations."

"I see you've read my horoscope for today," Edgar quipped, making Emmy shoot him an annoyed glare.

"Despite your hate for authority," Layton continued, "you don't seem like the sort of person who would challenge it without a good reason. However, judging by the care for the well-being of the Barde children and Luke, you seem to have a softer, kinder side. A side that is concealed beneath your harsh mannerisms."

Layton stayed silent for a moment, letting the information sink in.

"Before I come to my final judgement of you Edgar, I would rather like to know how you entered your criminal career. If you don't mind me asking," Layton said, catching Emmy and Luke's attention.

Edgar sighed.

"Might as well," he mumbled. He leaned on the cell wall and prepared to tell his story.

"I can't remember my parents. I don't know if they died in an accident or they just abandoned me, but either way I was raised in an orphanage in Lambeth. When I got older, about the same age as you Luke, I decided I didn't like living there so I ran away. I found this warehouse I could stay in. I started shoplifting when I was hungry and then it grew to pick pocking. Eventually, I joined a gang who needed someone who was agile enough to break into rich people house. Just rich people, I never stole from those who need it."

"Well aren't you just a typical Robin Hood," Emmy snidely remarked, earning a glare from Edgar before he continued.

"That was the deal. They pointed a house or museum or whatever to me, tell me what to steal and I get a part of the cut. This carried on for a couple of years before I decided to leave," Edgar explained.

"Why did you leave?" Luke inquired, wiping some tears from his eyes.

Edgar looked at him with emotionless face, "I wanted to leave. That is all."

Edgar turned away from the confused Luke.

"They didn't like the fact that their little breadwinner wasn't going to work for them and so they sold me out to Scotland Yard. They didn't give any names, but they told them what I looked like and where they could find me and well... I ended up here."

Layton nodded at the brief explanation, "I see. Thank you Edgar for telling us."

Edgar shrugged in indifference.

"However," Layton continued, "I do have one last question."

Edgar noticed something in his tone when he said that last sentence. It was almost like he was sorry for what he was going to do.

Taking a rolled up newspaper from his inner jacket pocket, he walked up to the seated Edgar and gave it to him. Edgar noticed that it was the same newspaper he tampered with. He still had the front page report in his pocket.

"I assume you were the one who took out the front page," Layton said, "I'm sorry to say that it wasn't the article I wanted to read."

Edgar looked at him in confusion before going through the newspaper.

'What was he talking about? Was there something I mis-' his thoughts stopped when he reached a particular article. He didn't need to read it to know what it was about. It took him so much of his will not to burst into tears as he suppressed a sob.

"What? What is it?" Emmy asked in agitated curiosity.

Layton sighed in sadness as he watched the teenage battle with his emotion.

"I'm sorry Edgar. I had no intention of letting you live through it again. But I quite like to know the entire story," Layton apologised as he made his way back to Emmy and Luke.

"Can you please tell us..." Layton heisted for a moment, "who Agatha Cipher is, please?"


- Five Years Ago -


Lambeth, London

"PLEASE, YOU CAN'T TAKE HER AWAY!" A nine year old Edgar wailed at late middle aged woman with greying hair and the appearance of wrinkles over her face.

Miss Cowell was many things. An owner of an orphanage, provider for abandoned children, a cook, a cleaner, but one thing she wasn't was tolerant with Edgar. She has volunteered at the orphanage for over thirty years now and has taken over as manager. She has seen many children come and go over the years to good homes, but she has never met any child like Edgar Cipher. He was stubborn, critical over everything, and, worst of all, intelligent. Three qualities of a child that would be a nightmare to anyone. The only person he seemed to care about is his younger sister, Agatha.

Agatha was the complete opposite of Edgar. Kind, caring and polite to everybody. She was four years younger than her brother and she shared his bright intelligent green eyes and long blond hair that made her look like an angel to any adult who talked to her. The siblings cared for each other deeply as they were the only family they had. While Agatha followed her brother everywhere he went, Edgar watched over her like a hawk, making sure any bullies who dare to pick on his sister leave with a split lip and a dozen painful bruises.

Life went on until the day Agatha collapsed in the playground. She was rushed to the hospital as fast as possible while Miss Cowell and a weeping Edgar followed. Agatha recovered and was told that she could return to the orphanage, however Miss Cowell was told the unfortunate news. Agatha was...sick. Very sick. The doctors had a hard time diagnosing what was wrong and concluded that Agatha was suffering from an unknown ailment. And therefore untreatable. Agatha would need to be transferred to a hospice, but there was nothing they could do for her. The day she broke the news to Edgar was the worst day in his very young life.

"I'm sorry, Edgar," Miss Cowell apologised, "but she can't stay here and you can't join her."

"BUT SHE'S THE ONLY FAMILY I'VE GOT! PLEASE!" Edgar begged as he wept into his hands. Miss Cowell felt like crying too, but she had to be strong. She had to be an adult.

Edgar looked up from his hands and looked at her with tears still in his eyes.

"Can I at least see her?" Edgar asked her.

Miss Cowell smiled and nodded. She led the young boy to Agatha's room.

Agatha greeted her brother with her usual bright smile. She leapt away from the suitcase she was packing and hugged Edgar. He hugged her back equally as warmly.

"Hey Agatha, are you packed yet?" Edgar asked his sister.

Agatha nodded in reply.

"Yep, have you?" she asked curiously.

Edgar hesitated. She hasn't been told that he wouldn't be coming with him yet. Edgar couldn't do that to her, she would be heartbroken.

"Well, Agatha I..." he tried to answer her, but her bright green eyes bore into his soul.

He couldn't leave her. There must be another way.

There's always another way.

Edgar looked around the room given to her by the orphanage. It was a small room on the ground floor of a brick house constructed in the 1700s. She had a window that looked out onto a garden where the children played.

An idea struck him.

An idea that would change his life.

He turned to Miss Cowell with a sad smile, "Can I talk to her alone, please."

Miss Cowell was surprised at first. Edgar was never really big on being polite. She nodded and left the room, closing the door behind her. She assumed that he was going to tell her what was going on.

She was very mistaken.

Edgar bent down to Agatha's level and placed his hands on her shoulders, "Okay, Agatha. Remember the adventure books I read to you at night."

Agatha nodded cheerily.

"Well, how about we go on an adventure ourselves."

Agatha looked confused, "Why?" she asked.

"It's because," he looked at the light coming under the door behind him to see if there was a shadow, when he saw that nobody was listening in he turned back to Agatha, "Miss Cowell is trying to lock us up and we don't want that, right."

Agatha shook her head innocently.

"Good, grab you suitcase," Edgar instructed.

As Agatha was grabbing her suitcase, Edgar opened the window. He took her small suitcase and placed outside the window. He then lifted her up and dropped her safely outside before going out the window himself.

"Ready to go on our adventure, Agatha?" Edgar asked with a half smile.

Agatha smiled back, "Yep!" she agreed cheerfully.

Miss Cowell would return to Agatha's room twenty minutes later to find that both Edgar and Agatha Cipher had run away.


Abandoned Warehouse

"Edgar my feet are tired," Agatha complained in a fatigue voice.

"Alright, um...I'll just have to carry you," Edgar suggested picking up Agatha and carrying her inside an old warehouse.

The Cipher children have been walking all day, trying to find a decent place to stay. Miss Cowell had called the police and Edgar has been trying his best to avoid them, meaning they haven't made it very far. Edgar finally spotted an old warehouse by the docks. It looked like it hasn't been used in years with its peeling paint and odd fishy smells. It was the best he could find.

He made sure it was completely vacated before finding a room that didn't reek of old fish and laying Agatha on the ground.

"See, this is not so bad. We can find some mattresses for our bed..."

Agatha coughed.

"...we can probably find an old stove at the dump..."

Agatha coughed harder.

"...and then we can-" Edgar stopped as Agatha started to have a coughing fit. He patted her back gently trying to get her stop.

She did stop, eventually.

It dawned on Edgar that Agatha was getting sicker and sicker. The warehouse was doing damage to her health.

Agatha said she wanted to take a rest. Edgar had constructed her a makeshift bed out of a couple of bin bags and some of old rags. He promised her he would find food for her when she wakes. Agatha only smiled tiredly before falling into a deep sleep.

Edgar sighed. He had no idea how to provide her with...well anything.

He remembered reading a book where a gang of Victorian children would pickpocket people in the streets. He wasn't quite sure how he felt about stealing, but he reckoned if he stole from rich people they wouldn't miss it. Would they?

This doesn't solve her sickness though.

Edgar shook the thoughts from his head. He would worry about it later.

He needs to find food.

Edgar left the warehouse where he would begin his life of crime for the sake of Agatha.


The Grey Street Gang HQ

It has been a couple of months since Edgar and Agatha had ran away.

Edgar had picked up stealing very quickly. You tend to learn these things if your desperate.

However, no matter how much he pickpocket or shoplifted, it doesn't solve Agatha's sickness. She has gotten worse. To make things worse, winter is on its way meaning finding ways to to keep out the cold will be come hard.

On this particular evening, Edgar was meeting with a local criminal gang known at the Grey Street Gang. It was a small gang with only had a few members that specialised in burglary. They had approached Edgar before to try and get him to join. Apparently, they were looking for people who were nimble enough to fit through a window or climb up a drain pipe, but Edgar wasn't interest in joining as he was too busy looking after Agatha. However, on that day the gang member who would try and usually try and recruit him approached him. Edgar thought he was offering the usual amount of money to try a lure him into joining, however he didn't just offer money this time.

He offered a cure for Agatha.

That got Edgar's attention.

So, after tucking Agatha into her makeshift bed, Edgar visited the Grey Street Gang's HQ to see if they were telling the truth.

"I'm so glad you finally decided to meet us," the gang leader known as Jack grinned at Edgar through rotting teeth.

"Shut up," Edgar said in a bored tone, "do you have what I want to don't you?"

Jack's grin grew wider, the winkles around his face became more apparent, "Now, now. No need for that," Jack said. He nodded his bald head at a another gang member who disappeared into a room. He came back with a black leather suitcase and placed it down on the oak desk in front of Jack. Jack opened the suitcase and turned it towards Edgar to show it's contents. Inside was a small narrow bottle which contained a red liquid. On the side of the bottle it read:

'Gertnat Antidote'

"What sort of a name is Gertnat?" Edgar asked with a raised eyebrow making Jack chuckle.

"We 'acquired' this from an experimental lab who guarantee its effectiveness. Take this one as a...free trial, but anymore and you would have to work for us," Jack taking the small bottle out of the suitcase and handed it Edgar.

Edgar inspected it. He didn't know what for. Just anything that may indicate that it was a fake. His mind was abuzz with thoughts and whether he should trust this Gertnat Antidote. It was either this or taking Agatha to a hospital. He couldn't let her go. She doesn't want to leave his sister with strangers when she waste away. At least the gang were offering a way for her to get better.

Edgar sighed in frustration.

He agreed to joining the Grey Street Gang.


Four years later

Edgar had, in the words of Scotland Yard, become a menace to London's upper class. The Grey Street Gang had taught Edgar everything about burglary from picking locks to leaving without a trace. The gang would tell Edgar to steal this amount of money or something valuable and Edgar would comply. In exchange, Edgar would get another bottle of the Gertnat Antidote.

Of course, he never told Agatha where he got it from. He always managed to come up with an excuse. It seemed to be working. Agatha was having coughing fits less and less and she hasn't had a fever in a while. Things seemed to be looking up for the Cipher children.

It didn't last long.

It was a dreary day. The dark clouds above Edgar threatened to drench the residents of London with rain. Edgar was walking back to warehouse he and sister shared when he noticed the crowd that has gathered and the ambulance driving away.

Edgar stopped walking. Stopped thinking about the job the gang has sent him on tonight. Stopped breathing. Stopped everything. He felt numb like he had been electrocuted by lightning.

He couldn't remember how he ran up to the crowd, nor asking a random person what happened. But he could remember what that person had said. They said a young girl with blond hair collapsed just outside the warehouse and she was taken to the hospital.

Edgar could feel the numbness change into a number of emotions too many to name. But one emotion stood out amongst the rest.

Rage.

Edgar kicked down the door of the Grey Street Gang hideout. Jack was sitting at his desk when Edgar had burst in. He was about to greet him with his usual cheery grin, but as he saw the fury in Edgar's eyes Jack felt fear for the firsts time in years. Edgar stormed to Jake and grabbed him by collar of his shirt and with all his strength threw the man against the wall. Jack hit the wall with a hard thump and slid down to the ground.

"WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER!?" Edgar shouted as he kicked the man in the stomach.

Jack looked up at the boy, "What the hell you talking about?" he asked in pain.

Edgar growled as he picked him by the collar again, "Agatha, what did you do to her?" he demanded in a deadly tone.

"We did nothin' to her," Jake spat out trying to get out of Edgar's tight grasp.

Edgar knew Jack was not an honest man, but he could tell that he was telling the truth about this.

"Fine! Fine, just give me the medicine," Edgar demanded.

Jack grinned horribly, "You'll get the medicine after you do tonight's job. Like we agreed."

"I don't have time for you shitty games, Jack. GIVE IT TO ME!"

Jack just smiled mockingly in reply.

Edgar growled and pushed the man down the ground, "I quit," he declared.

Jack lost his smile again, "You can't quit. We've got a jo-"

"I SAID I QUIT!" Edgar shouted before heading to the door.

"IF YOU QUIT NOW! I'LL RAT YOU OUT TO THE POLICE! YOU HEAR THAT, BOY! YOUR DEAD!" Jack screamed at him from the floor.

Edgar wasn't listening anymore.

The most important person in his life is in trouble.

Rain started to pour on Edgar as he ran to the hospital.


Great Ormond Street Hospital

Edgar managed to find Agatha's room after a lot of searching.

She looked so fragile as she laid in her hospital bed, but as soon as Edgar entered her smile brighten up the room.

"Edgar," she said happily.

Edgar smiled as he came to her bed. Being mindful of the machines and monitors, Edgar took her hand.

"Hey," Edgar greeted, trying to hide his real emotions, "I'm so sorry about leaving you. I tried to get another medicine but-"

"It's fine," Agatha gently cut him off, "I don't think it would help anyway."

Edgar gave her a confused look, "What do you mean?" he asked.

Agatha didn't say anything. She just kept on smiling at him.

It dawned on Edgar.

"Oh," was all he said, tears starting to leak from his eyes.

"I'm sorry, Edgar," Agatha apologised softly.

"No...no it's fine. Please don't apologise," Edgar said stroking the back of her little hand with his thumb, "is there anything you want or I can get?"

Agatha coughed loudly before turning back to her brother. Her eyes, now sunken into her skull, stared at him.

"Just don't leave me," was all she whispered.

Edgar nodded.

Edgar stayed with her. Nobody said anything or did anything. They just waited. Edgar remembered this scene very clearly. The smell of the hospital, the tears stinging his eyes, Agatha's cold hand in his. But above all, Edgar remembered how the heart rate monitor, with its occurring beeping, started to longer beeping sounds and then eventually it became one long noise.


- Flashback End -


"After that, I ran," Edgar told the others in the cell. Layton had a look of grief on his face, tears were streaming out of Emmy's eyes while Luke looked on with sadness.

"Jack did call the police and so I had to escape and then...well you know the rest," Edgar continued.

"My condolences, Edgar," Layton said.

Edgar looked up from the newspaper and tossed it over to the others. Emmy and Luke now could see the article. It read 'Sadness over the death of young girl, aged 10' and had an image of said girl who they assumed was Agatha. She was smiling at the camera which reminded them of how Edgar smiled.

"She was innocent," Edgar's voice caught their attention, "I was the horrible brother who bullied, robbed and done so many awful things and yet she was who suffered."

Edgar's body began to shake as tears ran down his face, "I thought she was getting better. The medicine was working. It must of been me, taking her away from the orphanage, providing her with scraps it was all making her sick. I just didn't want them to take her away. She was the only family I had. I can't believe it. It has taking me this long to realise that I was the one who killed m-" before he could finish Emmy wrapped Edgar in a tight hug.

"No you didn't, Edgar," Emmy comforted the weeping teenager, "nobody could blame you for your actions."

Luke also hugged Edgar trying to reassure him, "I would do anything I can to keep my family."

Layton kneeled down in front of him and placed a hand on his shoulder, "I'm very sorry about what happened. Nobody should go through that."

Edgar wiped the tears from his eyes and cleared his throat, "I'm sorry I lied to you all. By running away from my problems I've just created more problems for everybody."

The others smiled, "We forgive you Edgar, but remember you are not alone anymore. We are here to help," Layton said and others nodded.

Edgar smiled. He then stood up and pushed everybody off of him, "Right, enough this sentimental rubbish. We've got bigger problems on our hands," Edgar roughly said, making the other sigh at his attitude.

"You're such and idiot, pig," Emmy mumbled under her breath.

"But what about you and the Scotland Yard," Luke asked curiously.

Edgar smiled, "I'll cross the bridge after the case."

"You still want to carry on with investigation?" Layton inquired.

Edgar shrugged, "Sure, I got nothing better to do," he said jokingly before he gave a serious answer, "I want to make sure the Barde children are okay. I'm not making the same mistakes again."

Layton nodded gratefully at that.

"Now that everything has cleared up," Layton said, "we can go back to the investigation. Now, there is something that concerns me about our stake out last night," Layton hummed.

"What is it, Professor?" Luke asked turning to older man.

"Jakes and his men were immediately on the scene...but they weren't alerted to any 'prophecies'," Layton explained, making the others frown in curiosity.

"That's true," Luke agreed, "come to think of it! The police hauled us off almost right after the Spectre was gone! It's as if he knew the Spectre would appear there!"

"Or that he knew we would be there," Layton suggested.

"Wait, what are you saying?" Emmy asked in confusion.

Layton rubbed his chin in thought, "I believe this is all connected to the truth behind the Spectre," he explained.

"It being?" Edgar asked with a raised eyebrow.

Layton didn't answer his question, but turned to the cell door instead.

"We must clear up one more mystery before I can be absolutely certain. Right now, let's find a way out of here as quickly as possible," Layton suggested.

"Professor, are you suggesting...that we break out of here?" Emmy asked in shock. She never thought the Professor would suggest something like that.

Edgar chuckled as he approached the cell door, "Now you are speaking my language, prof," Edgar said pushing the metal door a couple of times.

Emmy rolled her eyes and crossed her arms in front of her, "Please Edgar. I know your an ex-burglar, but even you can't escape a locked metal ce-" she was cut of by a lock opening.

She turned and stared in disbelief as Edgar pushed the door open with ease. Edgar turned to her and gave her a wink.

"B-b-b-but how?" she questioned in shock, as she stared wide eyed at Edgar "There wasn't even a keyhole on this side of the door?"

"Trade secret, I'm afraid," Edgar declared smugly, "nobody knows how I do it."

(A.N: Not even the author knows.)

"No time for questions," Leyton said, "we must escape from the station before we get caught."

Layton, who was followed by Luke, checked the corridor outside before leaving the room. Edgar gave Emmy a half smile and left with them.

Emmy was still in shock at how Edgar opened the door. She sighed in frustration, mumbled something about Edgar being stupid and left the cell as well.


Unknown Place

Meanwhile, Jakes was meeting with the mysterious figure again.

"I got 'em, No problem," Jakes told the figure proudly with a wide grin, "We don't got to worry no more."

"Worry?" the figure repeated before laughing evilly, causing Jakes to frown deeply.

"What's so funny?" Jakes asked in an insulted tone.

"Oh, you must forgive my levity. I just find your confidence to be rather...what's the word? Quaint?"

Jakes growled, "Is that right? You best watch your mouth!" Jakes threatened.

"You FOOL!" the figure shouted, "As you stand here boasting, I guarantee that Layton has broken out of your provincial little prison cell. Probably with help of that boy you keep going on about."

Jakes grunted in surprise, "There's no way he'll accept the boy. I-I-I exposed him to who he truly is," Jakes sputtered in surprise, before he turned and left the room with a huff.

The figure sighed, "Dear me, he seems to have underestimated them," he mused wearily.


Highyard Arch

After escaping the police station, Layton suggested that need to investigate the Spectre's flute, in particular where the music was coming from. Edgar suggested that they return to the Highyard Arch since it was the most recent incident.

As they he headed to the area, Edgar couldn't help but think how strange it was that instantly going back to investigating. Especially, after everything that happened in the cell. It felt normal (well normal in regards to chasing a monster) when it should't be normal or at least Edgar didn't want it to be normal. It was hard to describe.

Once the reached Highyard Arch they observed the damage caused by the Spectre. The bridge it crashed into hasn't been cleared up yet and the debris was left on the road and in the water.

Emmy sighed as she looked at the destruction, "Nothing but rubble. This building was completely destroyed."

"The fog was so thick you couldn't see two inches in front of you," Edgar added as he kicked a stone out of his path.

Layton hummed, "Typical of the fog that accompanies the Spectre," he mused out loud.

"Professor, do you think the Spectre somehow creates fog?" Luke asked curiously., causing Edgar to chuckle slightly.

Luke gave him an inquisitive look, "Sorry, the thought of a giant monster trying to operate a smoke machine popped into my head," Edgar replied.

The others chuckled as well which surprised Edgar for a moment. He wasn't expecting them to laugh at one of his stupid jokes.

"Maybe we should split up and search the area," Layton suggested.

The others agreed and the search began.

After a while, Emmy noticed that Edgar was looking uncomfortable. She approached him casually.

"Edgar," Emmy said, stealing Edgar's attention away from a bit of masonry on the floor, "is everything alright?"

Edgar sighed, "I'm sorry it...just feels weird."

"What does?"

"Everything. It feels weird that everything is normal between us and it's only been an hour. There is nothing wrong with it being normal, but for some reason I don't want it to be normal or I can't get over how normal we are now being. You get what I mean?" Edgar explained cryptically, making Emmy sweat drop a little.

"Err...no," she admitted, "Unless you mean, why it was easy to get back to things were than yes I know what you mean," Emmy said with a smile while Edgar nodded numbly.

"Well, I think you are overthinking things. We forgive you Edgar and we should be focusing on the Spectre now. See this as an opportunity to create new links rather then to bring back old ones," she advised.

Edgar thought about it before nodding again, "Yeah, I guess that makes sense."

"Good," Emmy said happily, "why don't we start with something simple like... how about sport," she suggested.

"Let me guess, you like polo or hockey. Something only posh people play" Edgar guessed jokingly.

"Hey! I have you know I enjoy boxing actually," Emmy retorted in a false insulted tone, making Edgar roll his eyes, "let me guess you like football."

"What's wrong with that!?"

"It's such a typical boy thing. Have you even played it before?"

"I'm actually very good at football," Edgar countered with a smirk.

"Oh really. Prove it," Emmy challenged with a smirk of her own.

Edgar looked around the area until his eyes landed on rusted pipe sticking out of the side of the road. Taking a bit of stone, small enough to not damage his foot, he balanced it on the side of his shoe. He kicked up a couple of times trying to get a good angle and kicked the stone into the pipe in one go. The sound the pipe made when it was hit by the stone rang out in the area catching Layton and Luke's attention.

Layton looked at the pipe and back at Emmy and Edgar with a look that said 'stop messing about'. The duo gave sheepish smiles back.

Layton was about move on, when he took another look of the pipe.

Layton's lit up in discovery, "Of course. That's it! Finally, the puzzle pieces fit together!" Layton declared catching the others attention.

"What is it, Professor?" Luke asked curiously.

"Do you three remember what the flute sounded like?" Layton asked the others, "Not just what is played, but the actual quality of the sound?"


(Puzzle Start)

Edgar thought about it. He was too distracted that hadn't payed much attention to the music itself.

There were three possible answers.

A - The Spectre drowned it out

'No I don't think so. The Spectre was very loud, but I could still hear the music.'

B - It had a jazz-fusion flair

'Yeah, probably not.'

C - It echoed through the town.

'Thinking about it. Yes that sounds right. It was the same as the first night.

"Everyone said it echoed throughout the town," Edgar answered.

"Exactly," Layton agreed, "Even with no one near, the flute still echoed clearly. Everyone in town heard it- not just those near the Spectre."

"This means that music could come from anywhere," Emmy pointed out.

"Not necessarily," Layton countered, "Is there anything that could carry sound throughout Misthallery? Anything you can think of?"

Edgar came up with another three possibilities:

A - An information network

'Not a bad idea, but surely we would of stumbled upon it by now.'

B - Down the canals

'Again not bad idea since we established that the Spectre was using the canals as well. However, there doesn't seem to be any way for the music to travel and it would mean it's movement was restricted to the canals. This is a problem considering that everybody heard it no matter if they were near a canal or not.'

C - Through old pipes

'That must be it. These pipes are scattered across Misthallery. Not only that but it would explain why it sounded very echoey.'

"Must be the pipes," Edgar answered kicking one lightly for emphasis.

"I believe you are correct, Edgar," Layton agreed brightly, "The sound was carried throughout Misthallery in those old pipes."

(Puzzle Solved)


"So it was the old water pipes all over Misthallery!" Emmy said whilst peering down the one Edgar kicked. She imagined how all the pipes were connected under all the houses across the village.

"Indeed, I believe the pipes go all the way up to Barde Manor on Highyard Hill," Layton suggested.

"You mean at the Barde reservoir," Edgar said.

Luke turned to Layton in surprise, "Mr. Layton does that mean-"

"Let's head to Barde Manor," Layton surggested, cutting Luke off, "I think all will be made clear there."

As Layton, Emmy and Luke made their way to Barde Manor, Edgar stayed behind. He thought about what happened this morning. He never thought he would tell anybody Agatha or his life. It felt...nice.

'I guess they are my friends,' Edgar admitted to himself.

Although, he was still concerned about Grosky and Scotland Yard. What was he going to do? Should he run? Should he give himself up?

"Edgar, what's wrong?" Luke's voice stopped his train of thought.

Edgar shook those thoughts away, "I'm coming," he called back as he walked towards the group.

He would think about that later.

He's got over things to focus on.


Well, it's been a while since I last updated...any of my stories thinking about it. The reason for this is because of this chapter which has a word count of around 11,500 words. The longest chapter I've written so far. Hope you enjoyed the chapter we touched on many depressing factors, but I think it's essential to give Edgar a tragic back story.

I would love to thank all those who read this story as well as my other stories. It may (not) surprise you that TPAOEC isn't as popular as the others. I'm starting to think that this story is the forgotten brother of the three.

Anyway thanks.

Next Time: The Spectre is finally revealed.