AN: Hello all! Ready for the first round of court ? I know I am! I just hope no one gets beat up too badly during it hehehe...
Gilgamesh The King of Heroes: Hope I don't disappoint, then. Well, we'll see if she's screwed or not hehehe. And that sounds like most prosecutors in this game XD. The question remains if she'll be like the rest for this case... Thank you!
Lilac Winters21: Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! I think it's going to be interesting too. Lyn's first interaction with Phoenix and the cross examination of Texxxas, well, no holding back is all I can say. Hope you enjoy this chapter!
Cranky Kong: Correct, the question is gonna be if I crush him or break him. The answer will be revealed soon enough.
OBSERVER01: Thanks!
Bowser Jr's Descendant: Thanks, glad you think so! Yeah, sometimes I miss some typos, but I normally go back and fix em later when I spot em. I'll be sure to edit soon. Yeah, brawling in court and dishing out revenge on Edgeworth will be a good time heh.
The Forgotten Reader: Oh, that's cool. And thanks I always try to get details, glad you enjoy this story.
As always, thanks for reading, reviewing, faving, and following! It means a lot to me that people enjoy and care about this little story haha. I honestly, keep thinking how I hadn't expected too many people to read this, so thanks again. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the start of this court case! And Happy Thanksgiving too!
May 16th, 9:48 AM
District Courtroom No. 3, Hallway
I felt incredible. Okay, I felt incredibly queasy this morning, barely being able to digest my measly breakfast of toast and a glass of water. Despite the pep talk I gave myself last night, I still wasn't exactly as confident as I wanted to be. But I was trying to shake it off. I took deep breaths to calm myself. I knew what I was supposed to come here to do: kick Phoenix Wright's ass or die trying. It was probably going to be the latter, but I had to at least try to be confident. I'd played the games, I knew how he'd think. Most of the time, he'd be riding by the seat of his pants and hanging by dangling threads. Of course, by no means was I implying that he was an idiot who just had great luck, but he was clever and good at improv. In fact, the more he got pushed the better his defense seemed to get. Whenever he was backed into a corner he'd somehow bounce back with this ridiculous theory that somehow turned out to be right. So, I wasn't really sure how to play him. Too easy and we'd get nowhere, too hard and I'd probably be obliterated. I wouldn't know what to expect; it was going to be unpredictable. So, I wouldn't be too cocky to think I had everything in the bag, because I already knew it was over for my side. Though, maybe there was a slight chance he picked the wrong person to defend and I was right. Okay, probably not, but I didn't want to lose because it meant I'd have to do another follow up trial. Could I just get one guilty person and just end it? Just one? So, I guessed I'd play hard in any rate. My only concern was not losing like Winston Payne. I didn't want to go down like a chump, no, I wanted to lose like Edgeworth. You know, with actually dignity. I was going to show him just what Edgeworth's apprentice was made of.
There was quite a bit of time before the trial began at 10, so I opted to sit in the hallway on one of the comfy seats. I sort of wished I had the guts to go over to the other side to intimidate them to keep the a cool image, but maybe I'd do it tomorrow. I was certain there was plenty more to this case that neither of us knew about.
I stood up from the seat and stretched out. I was considering going for a walk around the building to get rid of this nervous energy I had bundled up inside of me. However, before I could do so, I was saw a red figure approaching me from a distance.
I merely folded my arms upon sight.
"Mr. Edgeworth."
He just looked off to the side, trying to hide that smirk, but, oh, I saw it.
"Lyn, how are you this morning?"
"Funny you should ask," I said gruffly. "I'll have you know I'm perfectly ready to get back at you."
"I'm aware, you've told me multiple times at the office and via text message. It's quite clear."
"I'm out here about to lose it, knowing I'm going against that guy. He's going to tear me to pieces. I don't even want to go in there. I can't believe you didn't tell me he was taking this case. That was cruelty. Do you want me to die? DO YOU?" I said walking up to him and jabbing my finger in his chest repeatedly.
"Stop that," he said seizing the hand I was using to poke him with his own. He pulled mine down and away from his chest. I was disappointed as he shattered my hopes that maybe my finger would be strong enough to inflict damage upon his being.
"You need to face a person like him."
"Why? For shits and giggles? Don't try to hide the fact that you think this is hilarious."
"That's preposterous."
(Bullshit.)
"I merely just want you to learn. Once a person faces him in court, they become aware of what's really important."
"Learn what? Didn't I already do it? You always preach about finding the truth, yeah? I did that last time! Isn't that enough?"
"No," he shook his head, tapping his forehead. "You're still focused on winning."
"Bullocks! No, I'm not."
"Yes, you are. You'll understand soon enough."
"Fine."
There was a brief silence before I realized he was still covering my hand with his own to prevent me from attacking again. His hand was surprising warm and softer than what I would have expected, but a lawyer lifestyle made sense for that. Their hands wouldn't be as rough and callused as another person who did manual labor. It sorta felt nice...
(Hey, wait a gosh darned second!)
"I'd like my hand back now," I muttered looking away a bit, feeling dumb about what I had just thought.
"Ah..." Edgeworth said releasing it quickly, not realizing what he had done. He then folded his arms, tapping one with an index finger. "I won't tolerate any violence."
"Sure, but you'll allow it when it's from Ms. von Karma, right?"
"Ngh!"
"Ha!" I said triumphantly.
It was his turn to look mildly annoyed.
"Hmph. I'll have you know that that whip is not something to be trifled with," he winced. "But in any case, I'll be watching from the gallery. There is no need to be intimidated, if you aren't focused on a verdict."
I sighed. "I guess."
He began to walk away. "And I suppose, you're correct. I do find this somewhat amusing."
I gave him the biggest stink eye I could muster.
Before wandering off completely, he stopped and turned around to face me. "This is what happens when you spill tea all over my work on more than one occasion. You actually make Detective Gumshoe look graceful."
"Hey!" I wasn't that bad! Rude! "I knew it...Come on! I apologized and cleaned it up and even offered to help you file stuff again- this is no fair!"
"I'm afraid life isn't fair. It's something you have to learn accept," he said snidely walking full blast now, around the corner out of sight.
"Mr. Edgeworth!"
There was no reply. Nothing besides my own voice echoed down the hall. That stupid jerk...! He really was the demon prosecutor. I was already planning what I was going to do after this case was done. He wasn't expecting much from me, but I'd really wow him. He wouldn't even see it coming. I did keep my promises after all.
Just as I was fuming in the hallway, the bailiff opened the door telling me court was beginning soon. That meant I should get my ass in gear. I took a breath. I didn't know if that was meant to be a pep talk, but it certainly riled me up. I didn't feel as sick anymore as I did irritable. I supposed I could be grateful for that. But it was time to meet the turnabout master.
May 16th, 10:02 AM
District Courtroom No. 3
Well, here I was at my side of the court. The gallery was packed and noisy, and definitely more crowded than the last times I had been in court. It was probably because of Wright or the fact that a celebrity had been killed. Maybe a little bit of both. I wouldn't look up there for too long because if I saw Edgeworth I would think of how ready I was to punch him out. Besides that, I saw Rose, shrinking into the defendant seat looking sad. It was too bad for her, but it wouldn't last any longer than three days. She'd just have to hold on till then. The judge was sitting at his post, looking as serious as ever.
And then there was the defense. Yep, there they were. Phoenix and Maya, my opponents. Right across from me. I was looking at them, not playing as them. God, this was really surreal. I swallowed hard. It wasn't like either of them looked formidable- Phoenix looked professional, but still dorky. And Maya just looked like Maya. Did you really have describe her friendly attitude?
"Hi, Lyn!"
"Hello, Maya."
"Don't be too harsh on Nick, I don't want to see him crushed," she smiled.
"Hey! Way to turn on me," Phoenix replied sweating.
"I'm just looking out for you! Lyn does have a reputation to uphold after all..."
He looked a bit more nervous at the statement.
I smirked slightly to myself. Seeing him nervous helped me feel a bit more confident.
The judge banged his gavel, silencing the room.
"Court is now in session for the trial of Catalina Bush," the judge announced. "Mr. Wright, it has been a while since you have been in court. It's nice to see you again."
"Oh. Thanks, Your Honor. You too," Phoenix said sheepishly.
"I trust you've been well, Ms. Doom."
"Very, Your Honor," I nodded.
The judge nodded. "Is the defense ready?"
Phoenix nodded as confidently as he could muster. "The defense is ready."
"And the prosecution?"
"The prosecution has been born ready, Your Honor," I bowed, faking it to make it.
"Ms. Doom, could you enlighten the court about the case with your opening statement?"
"Certainly."
The judge blinked. "Oh."
"Is something the matter, Your Honor?" I asked.
"No," he shook his head. "It's just that normally, you'd reject standard courtroom procedure."
I didn't know that I was typical thing I did besides the last couple of cases. Though, to be fair the last court date I had, I was pretty tired and just wanted everything over and done with.
"Well, I'm making a special exception for today, since I've never had the honor of playing with Mr. Wright. So, I guess I will continue without hassle today."
"Very well."
"The prosecution's opening statement is simple: The defendant, Catalina Bush is g-u-i-l-t-y, GUILTY! And today it will be shown with some pretty incriminating evidence found at the scene, as well as incredible testimony from our star witness, who saw some pretty sketchy stuff that casts doubt on the defendant's rosy image, if I do say so myself."
(Haha rosy. That one's a keeper. I need to add more puns in opening statements...or use more in general.)
The judge looked pleased with my statement, while Maya looked tense, probably balling up her fists. Phoenix looked tired, unknowing what type of mess he'd walk into this time. Couldn't blame him, every prosecutor he faced had some sort of issue. The gallery was murmuring a bit, but I couldn't make out about what.
"Feeling alright, Mr. Wright? I might see too well, but even I can see how pale you look," I teased.
He hunched his shoulders, beads of sweat rolling down his face. "Everything's just peachy."
"Good. We can't play the game if you're sick," I removed my glasses. "But don't take it the wrong way. I didn't come to win, I only came to prove a few things."
"Prove what?" he asked stroking his chin.
"I know you aren't someone that shouldn't be taken lightly, so I'm here to show that I can hold my own. And to show Miles Edgeworth that I am worthy of being his pupil. And lastly..."
I couldn't really describe it, but I didn't want to be scared of this. I really did want to show my stuff. I was just as bright and capable as anyone else, right? I was scared of getting crushed by Phoenix like he did other opponents in court, but I guessed in the end it didn't matter. Even though, I wouldn't deny that it would be nice to win. However, I knew that finding out what happened was more important. And well, one other thing might have been more important too.
"...want to earn your trust, Mr. Wright."
Phoenix was clearly confused by that statement coming from me, the prosecutor who was supposed to be notorious for destroying defense attorneys in court. But when I reflected upon it, the real goal of this case was to get Phoenix to be okay with me. So, I had to help him get to the bottom of the mystery. I couldn't go in solely for the win, even if I really wanted to. If I was supposed to help in the future, he would need to trust me even if it was just a little. I still didn't know how it would all work out, but this was the true start. So, I decided it was time to bring my best.
"Earn my trust?"
Though in hindsight, I probably shouldn't have said that. He probably thought I was a nutter. So, I just opted to ignore it as I put my glasses back on.
"Anyway, let's call our friendly neighborhood detective to the stand to get the ball rolling."
The judge banged his gavel and ordered the bailiff to bring in the detective. In a few moments, Detective Gumshoe appeared at the witness stand looking as scruffy as ever.
"Witness, please state your name and occupation for the court," I said.
"Dick Gumshoe, lead detective of this case."
"Tell us what you discovered at the crime scene."
"Yes, sir!"
Witness Testimony
What I discovered
-The victim was found in one of the VIP rooms of the Royale Hotel.
-The autopsy report says the time of death was around 12:00 AM to 12:30 AM.
-The cause of death was due to a fatal one inch puncture wound to the neck.
-The murder weapons were a pair of stiletto heeled shoes, which belonged to the defendant.
-The victim was wearing a scarf, that also belonged to the defendant.
"How did you like that testimony?" grinned Gumshoe.
"Not bad, not bad," I said smirking a bit. "We'll have to see what the defense thinks of it."
I looked across the room, Phoenix and Maya were whispering things to each other. Maybe they were trying to figure out how to approach the testimony. If so, good. Gumshoe and I went through it over and over. It was general and to the point, yet lacking in detail, which is what we wanted.
"So, who exactly was this victim?" asked the judge.
"Collin Card, an up and coming actor. He just got the lead role in the latest Silver Samurai movie, another spinoff of the popular Steel Samurai series. It's a shame. He really did have some talent," I said shaking my head.
"That is too bad," the judge shook his head. "I've seen a good many stars burn out before it was their time. Regardless, Mr. Wright, you may begin the cross examination."
"Thank you, Your Honor," Phoenix nodded.
"Let's go, Nick!"
Cross Examination
What I discovered
-The victim was found in one of the VIP rooms of the Royale Hotel.
HOLD IT!
"The title of this strip club is very misleading," said Phoenix hunching his shoulders over and sweating.
"Strip club?" the judge blinked. "I thought this was a hotel!"
"I am inclined to agree with you," I said folding my arms. "It is disgraceful. However, if there is no point to you pressing that statement then, please move on."
"Um, right...Uh, was that the only room they used for meeting up?"
Gumshoe nodded. "They always met in the same VIP room on a frequent basis."
-The autopsy report says the time of death was around 12:00 AM to 12:30 AM.
HOLD IT!
"That's a short time span to kill someone, especially with a pair of shoes."
"Anything's possible, pal."
"I think you'd know better than else," I commented.
-The cause of death was due to a fatal one inch puncture wound to the neck.
HOLD IT!
"It seems like there was quite a struggle."
The screen presented one of the crime scene photos that showed Collin sprawled out on the ground lifeless.
"You got it, pal. Even though that was the fatal blow to his life, the victim's all scuffed and banged up all over. We can say he didn't go down without a fight."
-The murder weapons were a pair of stiletto heeled shoes, which belonged to the defendant.
HOLD IT!
"I hope you have something interesting to say this time, Mr. Wright." I said removing my glasses and cleaning them.
Somehow, this cross examination wasn't going too badly. Maybe I was getting the hang of this prosecutor thing.
"I'm pretty sure I do," he said seriously both hands on the bench. "Rose couldn't find her shoes all night, so there's no way she could have murdered Mr. Card with them!"
I examined my glasses and put them back on my face. "Okay."
"Huh?" Phoenix blinked. "You believe me?"
"No!" I slammed the bench. "Do you really think I'd instantly believe that? Come on. There's a reason she couldn't find her shoes. They were probably never missing to begin with."
"What do you mean?"
"Rose lied. Her shoes were never missing. That was just her excuse to leave to prepare to kill Mr. Card, considering the unaccounted for time she was missing."
OBJECTION!
"Someone else could have taken those shoes!" Phoenix pointed. Gosh, that objection was loud. So loud, I almost covered my ears.
OBJECTION!
"If that's true, then show me the proof of it!" I replied doing the quiet coyote.
"Well, that's..." he began rubbing the back of his head grinning.
"Non existent," I shook my head. "I have reasons to believe that she lied about the shoes. One, there is a contradictory testimony from my witness and two, we had the pleasure of discovering a few things to suggest otherwise..."
I snapped my fingers and a holographic screen appeared showing an image of Rose's bloody locker.
The second time I was in court, I saw the defense snap their fingers and bam, the screen appeared! I did some digging and discovered that you didn't have to manually show evidence the way I did it the first time, unless it wasn't accepted into court as evidence if it was evidence you literally just found. The court record was this bit of technology that was like a screen that collected data. You scanned your evidence in beforehand to be accepted as evidence before court, at least for the prosecution. The defense normally didn't have stuff in the system accepted at the beginning, since it was stuff they found snooping around, which in real life would be considered illegal... But it turned out, you could just put your evidence in there to have at the ready, even if the court didn't accept it immediately, just to make sure you had it. Some evidence you couldn't carry around after all. And the screens were handy for everyone in court to see. It was pretty cool.
"This is the defendant's locker. It's covered in blood. And you want to know why that is?"
Phoenix began sweating. "I probably don't, but why?"
"The bloodied shoes were found in her locker."
HOLD IT!
"Wait a second! That can't be," Phoenix said shaking his head. "Rose was arrested wearing different shoes..."
"Well, anyone can switch shoes, can't they? What if she wore the murder weapon, finished the job, hid them in her locker, and switched shoes afterwards to appear innocent?"
The judge nodded. "That is a plausible theory. The defendant could have easily swapped shoes after she murdered the victim."
I bowed. "Thank you, Your Honor. I'm glad that even you can come to reasonable conclusions."
Phoenix looked frustrated as he had his hands set upon the bench yet again.
"But, we can talk more about the shoes later, when my star witness arrives. I'm excited for that part."
"Huh? A real star?" asked Maya curiously.
"Oh, yeah. A real doll," I remarked with a hint of sarcasm.
-The victim was also wearing a scarf, that belonged to the defendant.
HOLD IT!
"Why is that a problem?"
"Because the victim was going to see the defendant. It means they met up, since the victim is reported as always wearing nothing but white in his personal life. So, it is kinda weird to see that thing wrapped around his neck," Gumshoe said.
A holographic screen appeared showing us the red silky scarf.
Phoenix looked exasperated. "Urk...Just who did he think was? Who really wears all white? That gets dirty so easily..."
"It's a curious thing, but I think the scarf captures the bloom of death nicely. An angelic figure to his fans, mercilessly killed and stained with mark of death. Sounds, pretty tragic, yeah?"
"Wow, Lyn that pretty poetic! Maybe you should be a poet!"
Phoenix rolled his eyes. "Talk about cheesy..."
I laughed. "Well, the only thing more tragic is how he could have been prickled by a thorny Rose."
The judge shook his head. "Well, I think we have a grasp of the basic facts of this case. It's time to end this cross examination. You may leave the stand, detective."
"Yes, Your Honor," said the detective.
The judge banged the gavel and Gumshoe left the stand quickly, looking pretty happy. And I couldn't blame him, his testimony went very well. That drilling was useful! I looked across the way and saw that the Phoenix looked beat and Maya looked tense as well. Gumshoe was only round one, and they normally would tear him apart. Yes, I was in good shape. For now, anyway.
"Your Honor, if you will, I'd like to call the next witness to the stand. She's quite eager to talk, and I'd like to get her out here to perform as soon as possible."
The judge nodded. "Bailiff!"
In a couple of minutes, Texxxas was brought to the witness stand, in pretty much the same outfit I saw her in yesterday. She looked ready to rock, and in fact it seemed like she was in a far better mood than previously. I'm not sure what that would do for the case, but if it made her easier to work with, then it was okay for me.
"Hi, Chastity!" she grinned.
"Hi," I sighed trying to ignore that ridiculous nickname.
"Chastity?" questioned Phoenix sweating.
"Oh, I get it! It's a stripper name!" said Maya.
"Oooo, why look at the cuties we have here," she said looking at the defense. "Hm, close, but not quite. Still has a long way to go. Needs more...oomph."
"Are you talking about me?"
"Sure thing, sweet cheeks."
"Sweet cheeks?!" yelled Maya puffing out her cheeks. Ah.
"And you, sir," she said looking at Phoenix. "You look like you're in need of a good time. I can tell you haven't had one in a while. I could offer you some of my services if you want."
Texxxas looked at Phoenix seductively, standing more upright, pushing out her chest for all to see.
"Er, well," blushed Phoenix trying not to look at her boobs. "I'm not so sure about that."
"Mr. Wright, you will not be having a good time without me," said the judge gravely. "I want to have a party as well!"
"Oh, and you sir are most definitely welcomed to join," she giggled. "Older men are just as entertaining."
I cleared my throat. "Anyway, I think it's best we begin the testimony."
"Oh, this is where I perform, right?"
"Yes, this is show time," I nodded. "Witness, please state your name and occupation for the court."
"Chastity, you need to be more relaxed, you don't make any money the way! But, ya'll can call me Texxxas, that is with three x's for emphasis on extra fun," she pointed with a manicured nail.
"Um, that's a real name?" asked the judge.
"Her real name is Jane Green, but for all intensive purposes, the witness prefers to be referred to by her stage name only. It will be a hassle to refer to her with her real name, so let's not."
"I understand," nodded the judge. " I, myself am never referred to my real name either."
"Ooo, maybe you can change careers," she laughed. "And be another dancer at the Royale Hotel, like yours truly."
"Please, testify about what you saw in regards to the murder."
"Sure thing, honey."
Witness Testimony
The Things I've Seen
-It was about 11:30 at night.
-That little princess couldn't find her shoes and the stage show was starting.
-She doesn't return until 12:30 wearing the things, but the show's basically over at that point.
-Once we get off stage, most go to the dressing rooms, including the princess.
-Around 1, I hear a scream coming from the VIP room and...
-...I rush over and that's when I see it!
-That brat standing over his dead body!
"Urk...this cross examination," said Phoenix rubbing his temples. "Is going to be a while."
"Let's not make it too long," I said. "I have other things to do, you know. But I've got to warn you, Ms. Texxxas is some hot stuff. Real feisty. So I'm going to ask you to pick what statements you press carefully. Got it? There just may be consequences if it goes on too long. Right, Your Honor?"
The judge nodded. "I agree. Let's not drag this on for more than necessary. If a line of questioning goes nowhere, I'll have to penalize you, Mr. Wright."
(Oh my God. I got the judge to be on my side AND to possibly hand down penalties. I feel...like a real prosecutor.)
Phoenix groaned. "Yes, Your Honor."
"You may begin the cross examination."
"Oo, I can't wait to dance for you, mister," Texxxas winked.
Cross Examination
The Things I've Seen
-It was about 11:30 at night.
-That little princess couldn't find her shoes and the stage show was starting.
-She doesn't return until 12:30 wearing the things, but the show's basically over at that point.
HOLD IT!
"So, you saw her wearing the shoes she was looking for?"
"Yeah, she was wearing them alright. For all that hassle, they ain't even that interesting for stilettos. And not like she could even walk in the damn things right, anyway."
"Is that right?" asked Phoenix.
"Yeah! If you got shoes, learn how to walk in the damn things! I mean I know how to strut my stuff, baby. You wanna try me? You look so lonely, maybe a bit shy, but I can bring out the devil in you," she smirked.
His eyes widened in shock and then he slammed his hands on the table, red in the face. "I-I'm not interested!"
"Awww, that's too bad. You'd be a fun one too, you're pretty cute."
"I, uh, thanks?"
"Nick, don't fall for feminine charms!" said Maya. "She'd probably cost a lot."
"Sweet cheeks, knows her stuff. But I could make an exception in your case, even give you a nice discount. Even give you a little dance for free, cutie."
"I really don't need that..." he said sweating this time.
HOLD IT!
"Hey, Mr. Wright, do you think some of that information is important?" I asked. "Otherwise, we're killing time..."
"Oh, uh, yeah! I do! Definitely!" he said rubbing the back of his head.
"Which part? Because if it's important it should be added to the testimony."
He stroked his chin thoughtfully. "The part...about how she couldn't walk in her shoes is important."
"Very well. Ms. Texxxas, please add to your testimony."
"Right, on it, sweetie."
-She couldn't even walk in her own shoes right.
HOLD IT!
"Ms. Texxxas," began Phoenix.
"Mm? Something you need, sugar? Like a little dance?" She did a little bit of a boobie shake.
OBJECTION!
"Ah, erm, no. No thank you." The blush on Phoenix's face was as clear as day. "I was going to ask: isn't that unusual? She's a dancer, she's supposed to be able to dance in shoes with high heels, right?"
"Well, she should be able to do so." Texxxas said putting a leg up on the stand, feeling it up with both of her hands.
"But the princess isn't really paid for her dance skills. She's a cute face and that's what the costumers enjoy most from her. It's not too surprising that she can't walk in her shoes right."
"Hmm." It was clear, Phoenix was still thinking about something, but the conversation moved on.
-Once we get off stage, most go to the dressing rooms, including the princess.
HOLD IT!
"So, you're saying pretty much everyone went back to the dressing rooms after the show?"
"Mhmmm, that's right, big boy. Most chicas, like to freshen up, since we have more rounds after."
"And what about you?"
"Oo, I love when men ask me personal questions," she laughed winking. "Nowhere besides out of the building. I normally go out for a smoke or two. Dressing room is way too cramped. Every girl in there hogging the mirror space, throwing their sweaty outfits around...it's too much. Not enough class, you know? I prefer to ride it solo."
"So, there was a time you weren't accounted for?"
OBJECTION!
"Nice try, Mr. Wright. But you're wasting time with this line of questioning."
"What?"
"Have you forgotten the autopsy report? The crime was committed between 12:00 to 12:30. And Ms. Texxxas was on stage since 11:30. Her time is accounted for. She couldn't have killed Mr. Card because she was on stage. And besides that, there are people who can attest to the fact she was feeding her smoking habit outside."
"Oh...right."
"Ms. Doom is correct, Mr. Wright. I'm afraid I'll have to penalize you."
He winced a little.
-Around 1, I hear a scream coming from the VIP room and...
"So, you returned by that point?"
"You got it. I went back to the backstage area to go into one of the dressing rooms to get something when everyone else cleared out. And that's when I heard a scream."
-...I rush over and that's when I see it!
-That brat standing over his dead body!
"And you're certain you saw my client?"
"That was definitely her! Unmistakable! Especially that red hair, you couldn't mistake her for anyone else there. Plus, she sorta crumpled to the ground the second I got there too. So, I got a good look at her."
"Ugh...this isn't good."
"Yeah, it looks like we're on the ropes," said Maya frowning.
"Aw, it's already over?" asked Texxxas. "I was looking forward to a longer dance."
"Well, if it ends here, my case is as a good as won. So, you'd better find something interesting if you want to prolong this trial."
"Ms. Doom is right. If you can't find anything wrong with this testimony, the cross examination will end and I'll declare my verdict," said the judge.
Phoenix and Maya went back to whispering, discussing something looking quite grave. I was just waiting. I was just waiting for something incredible to be pulled out of their asses. There was no way I'd win this case.
"Well, does the defense have anything to add?" asked the judge.
"Ah, well..." muttered Phoenix.
"Yes, we do!" yelled Maya.
"Oh, really?" I asked curiously. "What is it?"
"Er, well what if who Ms. Texxxas saw wasn't really Rose?" asked Phoenix.
"Are you saying there was a fake?" I asked.
"That's not possible!" said Texxxas. "It was definitely her! I saw her!"
"My witness is adamant about that fact. So, unless you have something to contradict her, it's just speculation."
Phoenix nodded. "I do have proof to suggest another person was there at the crime scene."
"Please, present it to the court," requested the judge.
TAKE THAT!
On screen appeared a silver circular object, covered in blood. It looked like...a button?
"We found this at the crime scene," said Phoenix. "It's not from the victim's coat, nor my client's. I think it suggests the presence of a third party."
OBJECTION!
"Okay, but that button could have been there for a while. How do we know it's not from a really long time ago and just got tainted by blood?"
Phoenix shook his head, placing his hands on his hips smirking. Oh, shit was about to get real.
"I'm afraid that can't be, Ms. Doom. Take a look at this picture."
Phoenix presented one of the crime scene photos on the big screen. It was an image of the victim sprawled out on the floor, but at an angle towards the right closer up.
"What am I supposed to be seeing?" I asked. I seriously had no clue what I was looking for besides the body.
"Yes, what are we looking for, Mr. Wright?"
"It's right...here." he said pointing at an area in the picture. It was around the victim's shoulder. If you looked closely enough, there was something sticking underneath him very slightly.
"Ah! So, you're saying that button..."
He nodded. "Was found underneath, Mr. Card at the crime scene."
"I see," I said stroking my chin.
"There was a big struggle as the detective said. Mr. Card resisted his attacker, so my guess is that this button is a result of the altercation."
"Interesting," I began. "But if that's true, who was the attacker?"
"That," he frowned. "is something I have no idea about."
I removed my glasses and began twirling them. "The idea of a third person is nice, but if we don't have anymore than a button to go on, I'm afraid we can't pursue this thought much further."
"Argh..."
The judge shook his head. "This theory is interesting, but more evidence is needed to support your claim, Mr. Wright."
"Do you have anything else to show us?" I asked.
Were we really nearing the end of the trial? Ending a trial in a day? Me, actually winning? Against Phoenix Wright, no less? No- no, I couldn't get cocky. Something stupid was going to happen. It had to. There was no way it wasn't going to happen.
Phoenix paused and scrunched his face up in thought.
"What are you going to do, Nick?" asked Maya in anticipation.
"I think I'll do it."
"What?! But if you do then..."
"I know, but it's all we have left."
"What are you two talking about over there?" I asked putting my glasses back on. "Share it with the rest of the class."
"Well, there is another piece of evidence we haven't presented yet."
TAKE THAT!
"What? What is this?" I asked. I was staring at the screen in shock. This was not good.
"Strands of red hair?" blinked the judge.
Phoenix didn't look too happy with what he had done. "Yes, we found hidden underneath the body as well."
I shook my head. "That's...pretty bad for your case. No one else, at the club has flaming red hair like she does."
The judge shook his head. "This is very incriminating. I think we've seen enough. The cross examination of Ms. Texxxas is over."
There was a lot of murmuring from the gallery as the judge banged his gavel. Texxxas was taken from the stand, leaving with a wink and nod.
"With the evidence and witness testimony, I think there is enough to pass a verdict. Are there any objections?"
I looked over at the defense. Phoenix was wracking his brain together thinking hard, I knew. But there was no way he was gonna quit. Either he'd say something or Maya would. I could object, but I had nothing to really object to. The way the case looked to me, even though I didn't necessarily think Rose was a murderer, the evidence was pointing all at her. Though, then again maybe it was suspicious that she wasn't walking properly in her own shoes and then the mystery of who that button belonged to was another issue. But I'd have to put in some major bullshit for an objection.
There was just silence.
"In that case I will pass the verdict. The court finds Catalina Bush-"
OBJECTION!
The judge blinked. "W-who was that?"
"The defense...objects, Your Honor! There are some things we still haven't looked at!" Phoenix yelled slamming his hands on the bench loudly.
"I'm curious. What things haven't we looked into?" I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach. Here it was. It was coming, my slap in the face was coming.
"Well, um..." began Phoenix not knowing where to go next.
"We- we should test the hair!" Maya chimed in.
"Test the hair?" I paused and thought about it. Damn, she was right. We had all jumped the gun on the hair and didn't even sample it. It could easily be faked; it could be a wig or from another person- who knew.
"That's a good point," I said. "Your Honor, the prosecution would like to request time to do testing on the hair..."
And maybe the shoes would be worth looking at too. Phoenix didn't like something about the shoes and perhaps I should follow that train of thought.
"...as well as murder weapon."
The judge was surprised. "I'm curious as to why you want the murder weapon tested."
"Mr. Wright seemed to be bothered by the shoes, and if we're sending these strands to forensics we might as well send the shoes back as too."
"I see," said the judge closing his eyes. "What kind of testing?"
"Mr. Wright," I began.
"Huh?" he blinked.
"Testing for blood is redundant. There are two options: fingerprints or footprints. What do you want to look into?"
"Oh, uh, footprints! Something about those shoes, isn't right."
The judge nodded. He had the bailiff gather the evidence and pass it off to Detective Gumshoe to take back to the forensics lab. There was no call for a recess; probably because this trial was nearing an end, or that's what it at least looked like. We all waited around for about thirty minutes before Gumshoe returned, giving me the results of the tested evidence as I requested them. He warned me that I would be surprised, but I expected something crazy. So, I took a breath and opened up the folder of documents that were passed to me. Yet, somehow, what I saw was worse than I was expecting.
My eyes nearly popped out of their sockets, and I could feel a warm heat passing through my entire body causing me to sweat.
"What." I lifted up my glasses and held the papers closer to my face to make sure I wasn't seeing things. "What the fuuuuuuu-"
I looked up at the judge who was staring at me, gavel in hand, ready to give me yet another penalty.
"-uuuuudge! What the flying fudge?!" I caught myself.
"What's going on?" asked Phoenix.
"Yeah! I've never seen you so frazzled!" said Maya.
"This..." I shook my head. "I'm done. I'm going home." I started to leave the bench and leave the courtroom.
HOLD IT!
"Hey! At least before you walk out, can you tell us what you saw?" requested Phoenix sweating with his shoulders hunched over.
I wiped my head and dragged my feet back to the bench shaking my head the entire time. It took me a couple of seconds to get some composure back, but I got a little of it.
"The results of the testing on the murder weapon, you'll be happy with. The lab found different footprints from Rose's in the shoes."
"So, I was right. Someone else was wearing those shoes," Phoenix said rubbing his chin. "But, what about the hair?"
I took a breath. I didn't know what to make of what I was about to report on. "So, the hair...doesn't belong to Rose."
"Woo! That's good news for us!"
I shook my head. "That's not the whole thing. This hair belongs to Mackenzie Macmillon."
"...And who is that?" asked Phoenix.
"A secretary from upstate New York."
"So, does this mean another person is involved?" asked the judge.
"No, that can't be possible," I said shaking. "I refuse to believe in ghosts!"
"Woah, Lyn! You need to calm down."
"How can I calm down, when we are dealing with a dead person? Mackenzie Macmillon can't be involved in this because she's dead. She's been dead for two years! Are you trying to tell me ghosts can kill?"
"Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?!" squawked Phoenix.
Maya's mouth hung wide open. The judge appeared shocked. The gallery was in an uproar.
"What the heck?"
"How is that possible?"
"I knew it! I knew zombies were on the rise!"
The judge banged and banged his gavel, but it was to no avail. Through the confusion, he called for a fifteen minute recess.
May 16th, 1:07 PM
District Courtroom No. 3, Bathroom
I sat myself in a stall in the courtroom bathroom with the door shut. I decided to go in here because rarely anyone came in and it was pretty quiet. If I stood out in the hallway I'd just be pacing nonstop.
That was just unbelievable. How could a dead person be killing people? That just couldn't be possible. I knew something stupid would happen, but this? This made no sense! How were we going to proceed after a twist like that? Were the results really telling us that a deceased person took Rose's shoes and killed a person with them? This was ridiculous. I didn't want to leave the stall I was sitting in. I could have won this case if I had objected to that testing. My mind didn't have to be blown. But noo. I had to follow the truth. Stupid truth.
(Screw the truth...)
"Just what the fuck is going on here...?" I sighed running a hand through my hair.
The worst part of all of it, was that I knew something crazy would happen, but that wasn't even enough to prepare for whatever the fuck we were going to walk into. I sighed. I pulled out my phone to check the time to know when to reenter the courtroom- or not enter. In gameplay it was one thing, but trying to solve this mystery in real time was another thing.
Only five minutes had passed. Ten more to go. I saw that I had a text from Edgeworth. I sighed, ready to chuck this phone at the wall. It was all of his fault.
Miley: Where are you?
Annoyed, I replied.
I went home.
It would have been nice to just drive away.
Miley: I don't believe that.
I growled at the phone.
Okay, well, I'm driving there right now. Bye!
I was ready to strangle him. I'd get sued, sure if I couldn't finish the job. But that would be so satisfying to strangle him to death with his cravat.
Miley: You're sulking somewhere here.
I glared down at my screen. I didn't sulk. I just...thought hard and long about things that didn't go very well. And maybe pitied myself a little.
I AM NOT SULKING. But FINE.
I'm in the bathroom waiting for everything to blow over.
Dammit. I probably shouldn't have said where I was because now he was going to show up.
Miley: By not returning to the courtroom, I suppose?
I just decided to stand up and stop sitting on that toilet seat. There was no hope for me. I might as well, get the suffering over with. I unlocked the stall and walked out of the bathroom door. Sure enough, Edgeworth was there tapping his finger on his arm outside.
"To answer your question, yes. That was an idea of mine," I said.
"This case has only just begun. You can't leave in the middle of it."
"Yes, I can," I said with a fake grin as I started walking away. "See? It's that easy!"
"It would be unfortunate. You were leading a solid prosecution, and it would be a shame to see it end so soon."
I froze mid step and turned around. "You, really think so?"
"Is that something I'd lie about?"
I looked up at him. He seemed to be serious about it. I didn't catch any glimpse of insincerity at the statement.
"Fine," I said folding my arms. "But THIS is ridiculous. I really do want to go home. I don't know how you coped with this insanity."
I thought I heard him mutter something about crushing paper cups. I chuckled a little at the image of Edgeworth angrily crushing paper cups of hot coffee like he did in the first game.
"You'll survive. Though, this matter is curious."
"Yeah, two dead people at a crime scene? That doesn't make any sense...are you sure I can't go home?"
Edgeworth looked at me exasperated.
"Hey, I'm just double checking," I sighed. "Alright, alright. I'm in it to win it. Or in it, to truth it? Or something like that."
Just he was about to say something in response, my stomach growled incredibly loud. The noise was also accompanied by slight hunger pangs. I awkwardly hunched myself over in a feeble attempt to hide everything, but it didn't go unnoticed. I felt a blush spreading again.
Now, he was amused again, much like earlier.
"I can deduce that you're hungry, no matter how much you try to hide that fact."
"Oh, shut up. It doesn't take a genius to deduce that," I grumbled.
"And I don't think a vending machine would resolve that," he mused.
"You're right. It won't," I said getting an idea. "That's why we're getting lunch after this."
"We're?"
"Yes, no, wait. Actually, you're taking me out to lunch. You're making me do this case, a case I would have never taken in a million years. And I think I deserve that much. Or else, I'm just going to go home."
He sighed. "Fine. I suppose that won't hurt."
(Score! I'm getting a free lunch, courtesy of Edgeworth hehe!)
"Awesomesauce!" I said jumping up excitedly. "Alright, I'm ready to go now."
"What?!" Edgeworth said reeling back. "That's all it took to motivate you?!"
"How could you not be motivated by food?" I asked.
"Ngh..."
"I can't be motivated by truth, justice, and the American way all the time without stuff to keep me alive. But, oh! Let's go! I think time's almost up!"
I started skipping down the hallway.
"Wait a moment!"
It was too late, I was happily bounding back to my post outside the prosecution entry way in the hallway. I was ready to hear what we had to do next to try to figure out what was happening in this case. I wasn't honestly too thrilled about getting ensnared in more craziness, but maybe if we were lucky, there'd be only one more day of this? It was hopeful, anyway. And I was getting free food, so...yeah.
May 16th, 1:22 PM
District Courtroom No. 3
Everyone reentered the courtroom. No turning back now, as I was standing at the prosecution's bench. There was still murmuring happening, but it was relatively quiet to what it had been before. The judge banged his gavel for order and began.
"Well, that was certainly unexpected," he said shaking his head.
"No kidding," said Phoenix looking boggled still.
"Um, so where do we go from here?" I asked hesitantly. "I have no idea as to why the stray hairs of a dead person were found under the victim."
"For now, I can't pass a verdict with that in mind. The prosecution and defense's homework will be to investigating to discover why those hairs were on the scene, whose footprints those are in the shoes, and who that button belongs to. There are too many unanswered questions about the night of the murder and until those questions are answered I will not be able to pass a verdict in good faith."
I looked across at the defense and they seemed relieved that they got this trial to last for another day. Lucky punks.
"Court is adjourned for today."
The judge slammed his gavel down and stepped down from his seat and headed back into the judge's chamber. The people were filing out of the gallery and Phoenix and Maya were collecting their materials and heading out. It was time to get the hell out too. But before I'd sink my teeth into anymore mystery, I'd be sinking it into food first hehe. God only knew how I'd need brain food to keep trying get through this case.
Profiles:
Maya Fey: Age 19. It looks like we're good friends based on what I know.
Miles Edgeworth: Age 26. My mentor? Likes giving me lectures. It seems we're on good terms.
Detective Gumshoe: Age 33. Lead detective on this case. Looks like we both got the bad end of the stick this time.
Larry Butz: Age 25. Janitor. This guy is a trip, true to his nickname.
Raymond Shields: Age 35. The sassy defense attorney I've faced in court.
Judge: Age ?. Old timer judge. No one know his real name.
Mia Fey: Deceased. I guess my guide or inspiration to keep surviving this place, until that very fatal day.
Collin Card: Age 27. Victim. Was the lead in the next Silver Samurai movie.
Rose: Age 24. Suspect. Popular dancer at the Royale Hotel.
Phoenix Wright: Age 26. The man I'm supposed to be saving. My rival in court for the next case. Somebody save me.
Texxxas: Age 28. A jealous dancer. The main witness.
Evidence:
Prosecutor's badge: With this, I can prove I'm a prosecutor. Dunno why we don't wear them on our lapels like defense attorneys though.
Magatama: Magical sacred charm that should allow me to communicate with Mia.
Autopsy Report: Time of death between 12:00 AM to 12:30 AM. Cause of death 1 inch puncture wound to the throat. Other puncture wounds and bruising on face, arms, and legs damaging, but non fatal. Death was not immediate.
Stilettos: The heels are covered in blood. Used to kill the victim. Has footprints that don't belong to Rose on the inside.
Scarf: Luxurious red scarf belonging to Rose. Found wrapped around the victim's neck at the crime scene.
Mysterious letter: Addressed to an Angie discussing some type of deal perhaps?
Letter to Rose: About the bag she uses. Sounds very affectionate.
Bloody locker: Rose's locker is covered in specks and traces of blood belonging to the victim at the bottom.
Crime Scene Photos: Pictures of the crime scene taken after the discovery of the body.
Bloody button: Silver button covered in blood. Doesn't belong to suspect or victim. Where'd it come from?
Red hair: Strands of hair belonging to Mackenzie Macmillon, a deceased secretary from New York. Why were her strands found at the scene?