December 20, 5:23 PM
District Court - Defendant Lobby No. 5

Athena clasped her hands, beaming at her boss. "Thank you so much, Mr. Wright! If it wasn't for everything you did, I... I..." as she trailed off, she clenched her hands, fighting off the tears that threatened to stain her eyes.

Phoenix chuckled and crossed his arms. "Don't thank me yet. We still have an uphill battle to fight."

The ginger nodded and smacked her fist into her palm, composing herself. "You got it, Boss!"

Wright and Athena blinked, noticing Apollo was in the room, slumped down and looking quite regretful.

"A-Apollo...!" uttered Athena in surprise.

Phoenix cringed at the very muck awkward atmosphere surrounding his two employees. "Ugh... Well, this is awkward..."

Apollo pressed his forehead, trying to not look at the friend he accused. "Athena, can you do me a favor?"

"Huh? What is it?"

The horned-head attorney clenched his hands and looked at his ginger-haired co-worker, looking determined. "Could you... punch me, please?"

Athena reeled back in shock, not all expecting that. "Wh-What?! Why should I do that?!"

"Because I should've believed in you!" shouted Apollo. Regret, sadness and irritation seeping into face. "I let the seed of doubt inside me get the best of me. I'm really sorry that I didn't trust- OUCH!"

Apollo blinked, feeling a stinging sensation on his cheek. He saw Athena drew back her hand, glaring right at him, Widget blaring red. "Don't be such a dope! I was really touched by what you did!"

"...Huh?" intelligently asked Apollo. "Now what are YOU talking about?"

Athena hugged herself, remembering Apollo's words earlier. "You took the time and effort to genuinely think about who I am and what I'm made of... After all that, how could I punch a true friend like you, Apollo?"

Phoenix sweatdropped. "You didn't have any trouble slapping him a second ago..."

Apollo smiled brightly at Athena, feeling glad that there were no hard feelings between the two of them. ""Thanks, Athena. And thanks for waking me up to reality again.

"Guess I know now who to call if I ever get sleepy in court..." thought Wright.

"It looks like you have some promising young people working under you." spoke up from behind.

The three attorneys of the Wright Attorney Agency turned around and saw a certain magenta prosecutor, with Klavier trailing behind him.

"...Edgeworth. Yeah. I think they're pretty great, myself. And they're not afraid to keep me in line..." thought Phoenix. He crossed his arms, looking at his long-time friend with a questioning gaze. "By the way, what are you doing here? Klavier told us you were cleaning up the Prosecutor's Office."

Edgeworth pushed back his glasses with a smug smirk. "The corruption inside the prosecution has been mostly cleared out, and I came here to see the progress of the trial. That, and to tell you some good news. Aura Blackquill has surrendered and the hostages have been set free."

There was no better to describe Phoenix's reaction but pure joy and relief. "Trucy and all the others...?! Oh, thank goodness!"

Edgeworth nodded, crossing his arms, going into his usual thinking pose. "Ms. Blackquill said she had something she really needed to do. So I granted her special permission to do what she must."

Phoenix wasn't the only one curious, but Athena, Apollo and Klavier were too as well.

The doors opened up, Aura walking in with Clonco in tow. Before anyone could even speak, the woman beat her to it. "I didn't come to apologize, if that's what any of you were thinking. My actions are what allowed the truth of what happened seven years ago to come to light. But I did come because I had something to say to all of you."

"She'd better not be here to complain, or something." Phoenix thought.

Klavier walked up to the robotics scientist and bowed. "Fraulein Blackquill, it was our fault that you coulnd't trust the court system. On behalf of the prosecution, I apologize."

Aura laughed, as she kept smacking the top of Clonco's head. "Ha ha ha! Yes, it's true the courts are filled with incompetent idiots. Still... I suppose I could let you handle the rest of this case for me."

Clonco beamed, looking quite curious. "Oh, Miss Aura! Does this mean you're starting to trust the system again?!"

Aura karate chopped him, a small smile on her face. "No, of course not! Be quiet, Hunk of Junk! It's just... I wouldn't mind if you were the ones who took Metis's killer down."

Apollo clenched his hands, staring at the woman in determination. "Leave it to us! We'll get him!"

"So I guess that means she's starting to trust US at least..."

The doors opened yet again, Simon walking into the room. The Twisted Samurai looked at his big sister and spoke her name. "...Aura."

The scientist greeted back. "Simon. I'm so glad both you and the princess were cleared of all suspicion. And it's all thanks to me and my robots. You'd better be grateful."

Simon cocked his head, a smirk on his face. "Hmph. I never imagined you would go that far... though you always were extreme. But I don't recall ever requesting your help."

"As closed as ever, I see." reminiscence Aura. "Well, now that you've been released, I guess it's my turn to go live in the slammer. I just hope you're not the prosecutor for my trial. You'd probably give me the death penalty."

The Twisted Samurai's smirk was still present, although without its usual presence of threat. "...Hmph. You know me all too well."

Phoenix couldn't help but sweatdrop at the way on how the Blackquills showcase their affection to each other. "I guess love can take on a variety of expressions, including stunted in their case..."

Simon looked down, before staring into his sister's eyes. "...But I truly was about to be executed tomorrow. Though, because of you, it looks like I won't be crossing the Styx just yet. You have my heartfelt thanks, Aura. I'm sorry I cause you so much anguish."

Aura didn't say anything. For once in her life, she showed vulnerability, tears starting to form in her eyes. "Simon... I'm so glad, Simon. So very glad to hear you say that..."

The prosecutor Blackquill blinked in slight surprise and worry. "Aura..."

Aura shook her head and sighed. "Alright. That's enough of that. But first..."

The robotics scientist walked up to Klavier, intent on doing one thing. The rock star prosecutor was not prepared as Aura grabbed him by the side of his head and slammed her lips onto his. Everyone present was just as shocked as Klavier, as Aura basically sucked the blond's lips.

A minute later, she broke the lip-locking and looked at Klavier with a sly smirk. "That... felt nice. Thanks for your advice, Klavier." She turned to the bailiff and cocked her head. "Bailiff, take me to the Detention Center."

The guard obliged and escorted her back to the precinct. Klavier had his jaw dropped, still not getting over being kissed all of a sudden. Feeling the atmosphere get a bit awkward, Athena cleared her throat and moved on to a new subject.

"I still can't wrap my mind around Detective Fulbright being the phantom..."

Apollo looked furious at the mention of the so-called "justice detective". "I...! I can't believe he killed Clay!"

Blackquill nodded in agreement. "Right. And murdered my mentor, which brought great distress upon little Athena." The former convict looked at his superior. "Edgeworth-dono."

"You need not say it, Prosecutor Blackquill. I will allow you to stand on the prosecutor's bench and take down the pha-"

"You misunderstand, sir. That was not my intended request. I've done my part, and now I will take a page from Aura." He cocked his head, a smirk on his face. "I would not mind if you all were to strike him down."

Everyone, including Edgeworth, was surprised, to say the least. The Chief Prosecutor tapped his arm, a little smirk on his face. "If that's the case, very well then. It's been quite a while since I've stood in court. Prosecutor Gavin, would you allow me to stand by your side."

Klavier, having finally recovered, smiled and nodded. "Of course, Herr Katz. I would not mind at all."

Apollo smiled, and turned to leave. "Prosecutor Gavin... Prosecutor Edgeworth... Mr. Wright... Please avenge Clay's death for me."

Phoenix quirked an eyebrow, almost amused. "What are you talking about, Apollo? You're coming to the defense's bench with me."

Apollo reeled back in shock, not at all expecting that. "I am?"

The spiky-haired attorney smirked. "Well, I can't expect Athena to assist me, now can I? She's the defendant. That leaves you, Apollo."

Still, Apollo was quite surprised. "But... Are you sure you want me...? I... I took a leave of absence and everything..."

"Well, our office is pretty short-handed, and you're all I've got."

The horned-head attorney composed himself and smiled. "Th-Thank you, Mr. Wright!" He turned to his ginger-haired co-worked, directing to her his smile. "Athena, I can say it with all my heart now. I believe in your complete innocence. And now we're going to prove it to the world!"

Athena smiled back as well, flashing her signature peace sign. "...Thank you, Apollo! I know you can do it."

Taking this as a signal, Apollo threw off the jacket that hung on his shoulders, symbolizing his choice to finally let go. He took hold of his bandages, unwrapping them and letting them fall to the ground.

Phoenix smiled. "Now THIS is the Apollo I know!"

Athena nodded, clasping her hands as Widget blared green. "Welcome back, Apollo!"

Edgeworth chuckled, liking the display in front of him. "It's almost time for the trial to restart, though it looks like you have things well in hand."

Phoenix nodded in agreement. "Yup."

Blackquill walked up to his superior. "Edgeworth-dono, I have another favor to ask."

"Then speak it, Prosecutor Blackquill."

"Very well. There are still some things that are to be checked. The first people on the scene seven years ago, the facial data registered by the robot... and Detective Fulbright's background."

Edgeworth uncrossed his arms, looking at the man. "I see. Very well, I permit you to do so. From this point on, you are a free man. Although the formal paperwork has yet to be filed, but you are hereby conditionally released."

The Twisted Samurai grunted and nodded, raising his shackled hands. "I'm much obliged... The day to part with these has come at last. Edgeworth-dono... could you?"

The Chief Prosecutor nodded and took out the keys from his pocket, inserting them into the chains on Blackquill's wrists, and unlocked it, letting them fall onto the ground with a large clank. Blackquill smiled, curling his hands. "How long have I waited. Maybe it's the sense of freedom, but even the air seems fresher, the light, brighter..."

He looked up and nodded. "I will now take my leave and go back to the Prosecutor's Office. Wright-dono! I expect to be repaid with the phantom's head." And with that, he strolled out of the defendant lobby.

Wright nodded, flashing Blackquill a smile before he left. "You've got it!" He looked at his two employees, asking them if they were ready. Apollo beamed with determination, clenching his hands.

"You bet I am!"

Athena nodded and smacked her fist into her palm. "Let's do this!"

"This is it, the final battle! The murder of Apollo's friend, the courtroom bombing incident... and the case that ushered in the dark age of the law seven years ago... Destiny has called us to bring the one responsible for it all to justice today!"

December 20, 5:27 PM

District Court - Courtroom No. 4

His Honor banged his gavel, resuming the trial. "Let us now reconvene."

Phoenix stood ready, and spoke. "The defense is ready, Your Honor"

Edgeworth tapped his head, looking quite ready as well. "The prosecution is ready as well."

Apollo crossed his arms, looking quite excited. "You know, this is the first time we've been at the defense bench together since I debuted."

Phoenix strummed his chin. "Now that you mention it... Although, back then, I thought you were more loud than you were reliable... You've really come a long way since then, Apollo. You've grown a lot."

Apollo softly placed his hand over the bench, shrugging. "Well, there have been some hiccups, but I guess I've done pretty well."

"He's still got that ego of his, though."

The judge hummed, looking at the prosecution. "I must say, this is certainly unexpected. For there to be two people on the prosecution's bench."

Klavier banged his fist against the wall, smirking. "If the defense can have a co-counsel, then so can the prosecution, ja?"

"I suppose so. Very well. Bailiff, please bring in the witness immediately!"

With that, Fullbright was summoned to the stand. He gave off a two-finger salute and a bright smile. "Ha ha ha ha! Bobby Fulbright here! I heard I was needed on the stand so I here I am!"

"Detective Fulbright... Do you know why you have been called to give testimony?"

Fulbright pushed back his sunglasses. "Yup! 'Cause there is only one reason why I'd be called! And that is," He pulled out his badge and flashed it. "because it's time for justice! In justice we trust!"

"Objection!" Wright slammed down his fists onto the bench, glaring at the detective. "You can't fool us with that act anymore! Your "justice" is nothing but lies!"

Of course, the justice detective was offended by this. "What?! Are you questioning the integrity of my sense of justice?!" he looked down, twiddling his fingers. " ...I mean, sure, sometimes I make mistakes, but hey..."

Apollo slumped a bit, sweat dripping down. "...He's acting exactly the same as always."

Phoenix was in the same state, who nodded. "Tell me about it. He must be feeling awfully confident..."

Edgeworth brought down his hand, staring at Fullbright. "Detective, if you want us to believe that you are indeed, then move on to your testimony."

"All right. Fine! You want me to prove my righteousness? I can certainly do that!"

Witness Testimony

- The Embodiment of Justice -

Ha ha ha ha! I am the very embodiment of justice itself!
I won't have you make me into a villain with your far-fetched arguments!
And this bit about the escape route is only a theory - you don't have any proof!
What we DO have is proof that Athena Cykes is the culprit: this lighter with her prints on it!

His Honor considered the man's words before speaking. "Hmm... So you're saying the suspicions against you are completely false? And that the defendant is the real culprit?"

Fulbright raised his hand, vein pulsing. "Th-That's right. Mr. Lawyer's escape route is totally circumstantial! He doesn't have any proof that I made a big leap onto a ladder."

Klavier nodded, fiddling with a strand of his hair. "We don't have proof. You're right correct about that. However, you don't have any proof for your claim, either, ja?"

Fulbright reacted with his over-the-top reaction, clutching the side of his head. "Ngaaagh! I-I guess you're right. But you can't define justice with evidence. Who can define it, anyway? Justice... just is!"

"Objection!" Apollo's eye twitched and pointed at the detective. "D-Don't make me break out a dictionary on you!"

"Ngaaaaaaaaaaaaagh! Please, don't throw a book at me!"

"Ugh... Tell me the phantom didn't just make me set up a stupid pun for him." asked Apollo.

Phoenix felt a bit annoyed as well, but shrugged it off. "...Let's just try not to lose focus, all right?"

Fulbright pushed back his glasses, quite offended. "But my justice is crystal clear! What's not clear are your eyes! Wake up and smell the justice!"

"Objection!" Edgeworth brought down his hand yet again, before wagging his finger at the Fullbright. "Detective, if you are in fact innocent, then I highly suggest you look forward for you next salary assessment if you don't answer the court's questions.

The Justice Detective reeled back in shock. "P-Please don't! I haven't even saved enough money to maintain my Justice mobile!"

The Chief Prosecutor could feel his eye twitch a bit, not wanting to even know the phantom's excuse. The judge spoke, since no one was saying anything. "The suspicions against Detective Fulbright are, at this point, only suspicions. As is my duty, I will judge the claims against the detective as impartially as I can. Does anyone have any objections?"

Phoenix nodded. "That's fine, Your Honor"

Fulbright laughed boisterously and saluted the defense. "Ha ha ha ha! Now, ask away and don't hold back!"

Judge hummed. "Well, there don't appear to be any objections. Very well, Mr. Wright. Please begin your cross-examination."

Cross Examination

- The Embodiment of Justice -

Ha ha ha ha! I am the very embodiment of justice itself!
I won't have you make me into a villain with your far-fetched arguments!

"Hold it! My arguments are hardly "far-fetched"! There's careful reasoning behind my theory!"

Fulbright shrugged. "Yes, well, apparently there's "reasoning" behind even a tofu burger. But what we have against Ms. Cykes, though, is not just "reasoning," but solid evidence. And it's called the lighter, with Ms. Cykes's fingerprints on it in the victim's blood!{

Phoenix clicked his tongue. "Yes, that's true... But wait... Detective Fulbright was the one who brought that evidence to the trial..."

Edgeworth took notice of the look on Phoenix's face and pointed it out. "Mr. Wright, if you have any questions about the lighter, then I suggest asking the detective."

The spiky-haired defense attorney nodded and went ahead. "How many prints were exactly found on the lighter?"

"There were three: the thumb, the index finger, and the middle finger. All from a right hand!"

Phoenix nodded and faced His Honor. But before he could even utter a word, Fullbright had cut in. "Already added in my testimony! Ha ha ha! Be it investigating or testifying, speed is the key!"

Three prints were on the lighter: the thumb, index, and middle fingers of a right hand!

Wright listened to the statement, and found something off about it. He pulled up his Court Record and browsed through it, until he stopped it right on Aura's statement. Now, he was very much sure. He thrust out his arm and objected to the statement.

"Objection! You say the prints were from a right hand, is that correct?!"

Fulbright nodded, very much certain. "That's right! Very clear prints!"

Phoenix smirked, very much confident. "But that just doesn't add up. According to Ms. Blackquill, who saw the culprit herself... this person held the lighter in their left hand." He slammed down his hand, glaring at the detective. "So! Mind telling us why the prints are from a right hand instead of a left?!"

The Justice Detective flinched, clutching both sides of his head. The Judge looked surprised.

"Hmm! You're right! It doesn't make sense, does it?"

Phoenix slammed his hands down once more, moving on to defame the evidence. "Your Honor, this lighter can hardly be called incriminating evidence! The witness's CLAIMS don't even hold water!"

His Honor glared at Fullbright and spoke. "Detective Fulbright! I hope you have a good explanation for this!"

Fulbright twiddled his fingers, looking down in thought. "Hmm... I just can't understand it. They're definitely right-hand prints. But then, why are they inconsistent with Ms. Blackquill's statement...? Hmm..." He suddenly brightened up. "I've got it!

"Wh-What have you got, Detective?"

Fulbright elaborated on what he meant. "The mirror! The witness must have seen a reflection of the culprit in the mirror! Ms. Blackquill was looking in through the window of Boarding Lounge 1, wasn't she?!"

Apollo piped in. "If you mean the little window in the back and to the right of the room, yeah. And it just so happened that there's a large mirror opp..." He trailed off and flinched in shock, realizing what Fullbright had meant. "Y-You don't mean-?!"

The detective laughed and saluted him. "It seems Mr. Justice here seems to have figured it out. Yes, the culprit Ms. Blackquill saw must've been a reflection of that person in the mirror! Meaning, right and left would appear inverse!"

Phoenix was tempted to object to that, but stopped himself. However, Apollo did so.

"Objection! That argument is nothing more but conjecture! You don't have any sort of proof that what Ms. Blackquill saw a reflec-"

"Objection!" interjected Edgeworth. The Chief Prosecutor brought down his hand and looked at the red attorney. "He indeed has, Mr. Justice. Ms. Blackquill took mention of seeing the Earth emblem, correct?"

Fullbright beamed and saluted the man. "Looks like the boss gets it! The emblem is only on one side of the lighter! And if the culprit held it in their left hand, they would've covered it up!"

Phoenix kept up his poker face, but couldn't help but worry, wondering what Fullbright had in store. The detective then continued.

"What's more, this is the kind of lighter you flick open with your thumb before lighting. So if the culprit had held it in their left hand with the emblem out and visible...they wouldn't have been able to open it, let alone light it. But if they had held it in their right hand, they could easily open it and light it. This all means that the culprit was definitely holding the lighter in their right hand!"

Phoenix mentally growled while Apollo flinched in shock. Fullbright laughed and gave them a mocking salute.

"See now the logic of my justice? The emblem is only on one side of the lighter!"

"Hold it!"

Everyone turned to the defense, seeing Apollo was the one who had shouted it. The red attorney stood straight and crossed his arms in confidence. "Detective Fulbright, I believe you said that the emblem is only on one side of the lighter. Are you sure about that?"

Fulbright pushed back his glasses in clear confusion. "Hmm? Of course I'm sure! Why don't you take a look for yourself and see? Do YOU see an Earth emblem on both sides of the lighter?"

Once he finished hearing what he needed, Apollo's smirked. "I knew it. You're lying, Detective."

"P-Pardon me?" asked Fullbright in bewilderment."

Phoenix turned to his employee, a smile on his face. "You mean...?"

Apollo nodded. "Yes, my bracelet reacted to his statement about the emblem. He's definitely hiding something big. And I think if we use my talent, we might be able to figure it out."

Edgeworth slammed down his hand, looking at them with a questioning gaze. "You have a supernatural power like your mentor, Mr. Justice?"

Apollo cheekily smiled as he brought down his fists. "It doesn't matter if its normal or supernatural! As long it helps us uncover the truth through proper means, then I'll use what I can."

The Chief Prosecutor shook his head and shrugged. "Very well then."

Klavier banged his fist behind him, a smile on his face. "It's been a while since I've seen this in action." He thrust out his arm, excitedly. "Achtung! Let's see it, Herr Forehead!"

"Right! Detective Fulbright, could you repeat that last statement one more time?"

Fulbright hummed to himself, wondering what they were up to. "Hmm... All right. Fine. I'll say it as many times as you like! Listen carefully! The Earth emblem is only on the side that you can see when held in the right hand!"

Apollo's eyes narrowed, his gaze becoming sharpen than normal as he scanned for Fullbright's tell as he repeated his testimony. That's when he finally noticed his thumb brushing against his gun holster, whenever he took mention of the earth emblem.

"Gotcha!"

Just the volume of that one word was enough to make Fullbright jump in surprise. Apollo smirked victoriously and crossed his arms. "Detective Fulbright, you might not be aware of it yourself, but whenever you say the phrase "The Earth emblem," your left thumb moves. In fact, it appears as though you're running it along the edge of your holster."

Fulbright seemed to get nervous, denying what Apollo was saying. "M-Mr. Lawyer, I don't have the foggiest notion what you're talking about."

Apollo shook his head and pressed on. "Be that as it may, I know it has something to do with the lighter. Let me examine it."

"But why? You're not making any sense! You can't just-"

"Objection!" Klavier banged his fist onto the desk, smirking. "You have nothing to hide, right Herr Detective? Then you shouldn't mind them having a look-see, ja?"

Edgeworth nodded in agreement and snapped his finger right at the detective. "Prosecutor Gavin is correct. Allow the defense to examine the lighter, or I will dock your pay."

Fullbright clutched the sides of his head, panicking. "O-Okay! Okay! H-Here!" He handed over the lighter to the two, allowing them to take a look over it."

Apollo cheered. "Alright! Maybe we'll learn something new."

Phoenix took a look at the lighter, having already gloved his hands. "I hope so. Now, let's check every suspicious looking nook and cranny."

Immediately, they inspected the emblem first. "So, this is the Earth emblem Detective Fulbright was talking about." commented Wright,

"See anything noteworthy?" asked Apollo.

Phoenix noticed something strange about the emblem. Almost as if it can be pushed. "...Huh? That's odd. This emblem looks like a button, or something."

Letting curiosity take control, Phoenix pushed the emblem down. What happened next was quite possibly one of the oddest things Phoenix has saw in his entire law career.

"Is this... what I think it is?"

Edgeworth brought down his hand, looking at the item with utmost seriousness. "There's no question, it seems. What you have there is a gun."

"A WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!" exclaimed the judge in shock.

Phoenix strummed his chin, remembering a certain trial. "So that's it. Your Honor, please recall this morning's trial, when Director Cosmos was on the stand. The bullet that hit the oxygen tank was extremely small, maybe a .10 caliber. This little compact gun probably takes bullets of that caliber."

Apollo smirked smugly." Looks like we found the gun that was fired at the scene."

His Honor could not believe it. He could believe a parrot, a radio, and earlier, a robot as a witness. An orca as a defendant. But this...is where he drew the line. "I'm flabbergasted! The lighter... was a gun?!"

Phoenix looked back at his employee/mentee. "So when Detective Fulbright would touch his holster..."

Apollo nodded. "That's right. Whenever he mentioned the Earth emblem...he must have subconsciously thought about the secret behind the lighter. In other words, he knew it was a gun from the very beginning."

Surprisingly, the detective was silent. With this, the horned-head attorney continued. "A lighter that transforms into a gun seems like a spy gadget to me. It's not the kind of thing any ordinary person can get their hands on. In fact, I'd say it's strictly in the domain of elite spies!" He ended by punctuating it with a finger point. "Detective Fulbright, you WILL explain yourself!"

Fullbright pushed back his shades before erupting into a fit of laughter. "Ha ha ha ha ha! There's nothing for me to explain! I didn't know the lighter could transform! I mean, it was found in the Space Museum, and then I brought it straight in!" He slumped forward, twiddling his fingers. "I didn't even have time to check it out."

Apollo disagreed. "Objection! Whenever you mentioned the Earth emblem, you touched your holster! You subconsciously did that because you knew it was a gun!

Fulbright also disagreed. "Accuse me all you want, but where is your proof?! Do you have any evidence that I knew the lighter was a gun?"

Apollo tsked. Getting no response, Fullbright continued. "And whose prints are on it? Ms. Cykes's prints! It proves that she's the culprit who fired the gun at the scene!"

"Objection!"

All eyes turned to the defense bench. Apollo's eyes widened, as it was right who had shouted. The blue attorney brought down his hands and looked at Fullbright with a questioning gaze.

"Tell us, detective. The results on the fingerprint analysis...what makes you so sure that it was indeed Ms. Cykes'?"

Fullbright flinched a bit, looking at Wright with shock. "M-Mr. Lawyer! What do you mean?"

"What I'm asking you is simple." He brought down his hands again, his gaze becoming a glare. "Was the data you used official?!"

His Honor looked at the defense attorney, asking him a question. "Mr. Wright! Are you suggesting that the light might have been fabricated?!"

Phoenix nodded, no traces of bluffing on his face. "Yes, Your Honor. After all, as he was the one to submit the data to us. And with how much scrutiny and suspicion he's under right now, can we really believe it? That's why, the defense requests the lighter be re-examined!"

This pissed off Fullbright, glaring right at Wright. "What?! You dare insult the epitome of justice and integrity?! There's no need for such antics!"

"Objection!" voiced out both Klavier and Edgeworth. Both looked at each other, before Klavier gave the floor to his superior. "Your Honor, the prosecution agrees with the defense. Allow the test to be re-run posthaste!"

"Very well, then... Bailiff!"

The bailiff came back, bringing the report with him. The judge accepted and read through it.

"What are the results, Your Honor?" asked Apollo.

"Hmm... Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm... It's... It's just as the defense claims... This proves that the prints on the lighter do not belong to the defendant!"

Fulbright couldn't believe it and let out another of his overreaction. "NGAAAAAAAAAH!"

Phoenix smirked, crossing his arms. "As I suspected."

"Indeed. The fingerprints actually belong to the victim, Mr. Clay Terran."

Lighter updated in the Court Record.

Apollo looked shock. "They were Clay's fingerprints on the lighter...?"

Klavier remembered a little tidbit when he had skimmed through the trial report for Solomon Starbuck. "Come to think of it...Herr Detective, wasn't it you who also collected Herr Terran's prints? When you took his fingerprints... you could have easily planted his prints on the lighter with his blood and wiped the blood off of his hand, ja?"

Fulbright was sweating, looking like a helpless mouse.

Phoenix continued the attack. "By your own admission, you were also the one who compiled the phony print data. All to put the blame on Ms. Cykes!"

Fulbright started to sweat heavily, almost as if he had just run a marathon and is at gun point. "NGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH"

Apollo assisted in. "This ploy must've been to distract us from the phantom who was behind everything. You were out to create the impression that the phantom wasn't the true culprit."

His Honor managed to catch on so far, but couldn't help but ask a particular question. "S-So does this mean... Detective Fulbright really IS the phantom?"

Phoenix nodded, confirming the judge's question. "That's right. Remember the killer's escape route. No ordinary person would have been fearless enough to attempt it. Nobody but the phantom - the man with no emotions - could've done it."

By now, Fullbright looked scared, like a cornered child. Phoenix brought down his hands and glared at him. "Detective Fulbright, you were the only one who could've used that escape route!"

Edgeworth crossed his arms, staring intently at the detective. "Answer us, Fullbright! Are you the phantom?" When he didn't answer, it made Edgeworth ticked. "Answer us or I will personally whip you to hell itself if I must!"

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH! All right! All right! I'll talk! I-I confess." Everyone awaited with baited breaths as Fullbright spoke. "...I... I'm not the phantom."

"Objection!" Klavier banged his fist behind him, having lost his playfulness. "Achtung! Be a man and face the consequences!"

Fullbright raised his hand in faux surrender, explaining himself. "B-But I'm not a spy! I'm an undercover investigator. I've actually been after the phantom myself."

The judge was a bit confused at the complex term Fullbright had just used. "An under-the-cover investigator...? That sounds less than wholesome to me..."

Edgeworth tapped his arm, explaining the definition. "...A person who hides his identity and secretly investigates in order to uncover information. And that's what you really are, detective?"

The Justice Detective nodded. "That's right, I was working to track down the phantom... But, sadly... even though I was supposed to catch the spy, the spy ended up catching me. He took my family hostage and forced me to cooperate with him."

Phoenix looked affected, but he quickly shook it off and slammed down his hands. "You're telling us this NOW?! But if what you say is true, then... who was the mystery person Ms. Blackquill and Mr. Starbuck saw?"

"It was the phantom, I tell you! All I did was help him by having that emergency ladder lowered for him!"

"Objection!" exclaimed Apollo. "Bullshit! Then how would you explain the fabricated lighter?!"

Despite everything, His Honor banged his gavel and glared at the horn-headed attorney.

"Mr. Justice! Mind your tone in the court of law or I will penalize you."

Ignoring the judge, Fullbright replied to the question. "That was also one of the phantom's demands. Being the detective in charge of the case, it was easy for me to fabricate evidence. Pinning the crime on Athena Cykes was just another one of the phantom's orders!"

Apollo brought down his hands, brimming with anger. "And you expect me to buy that?!"

Edgeworth stared at the detective, his hand on the bench. "Tell us, Fullbright, what exactly was the phantom's objective?"

"I was told it was to sabotage the rocket launch. Someone who didn't want the launch to happen must've given him the order." told Fullbright. He slumped forward and looked at the Chief Prosecutor. "Also, can you tell Prosecutor Blackquill that I'm sorry? The phantom also ordered me to get close to him so I can steal the psych profile."

Fullbright fell to his knees, using the witness stand as support. "I... I haven't been a champion of justice...I've just been a pawn of evil...a pawn of the phantom who stole the moon rock and killed Dr. Cykes seven years ago..."

Klavier rolled his eyes and pocketed his hands. "Enough with the theatrics, Herr Detective. Just tell us the phantom's identity."

"I don't know. He was very careful to hide it. He has top secret information for all kinds of corporations and countries... ...so there's a number of organizations that want him dead. If people believed I was the phantom... ...I could be killed on the spot! Why, I bet even now, there are assassins lurking nearby! This case is about the phantom after all."

Klavier looked at the improvised sunroof and conceded with the detective. "...With the ceiling blown off, I suppose you are vulnerable to a sniper's shot in this courtroom, ja?"

Apollo gritted his teeth, not wanting to accept Fullbright's logic. "On the surface, everything does seem to make sense. This could be bad, Mr. Wright, if we can't find a flaw in his logic, he'll get off scot-free!"

Phoenix said nothing, instead preferring to be silent. Fullbright stood up and went into his usual pose. "There. I finally told the truth. Now I hope you see how foolish it was to think I was the phantom!"

Much to everyone's shock, the expression on Fullbright's face changed into a completely blank one. "You're an intelligent man, Chief Prosecutor. You believe me, right?"

Edgeworth still had arms crossed, his eyes closed. After saying nothing for a moment, he finally spoke, with words that shocked the defense. "I believe you. I don't think you're the phantom."

Apollo brought down his hands, looking shocked. "What?! How can you say that, Mr. Edgeworth?! It's obvious he's the phantom!"

"Objection! As much as I loathe it, evidence is everything, Mr. Justice. You must concede that there is no evidence that proves Fullbright is the phantom. The only thing that has made him suspicious... was the fabricated lighter."

Edgeworth uncrossed his arms and opened his eyes. "In all honesty, Detective Fullbright reminds me of Detective Gumshoe. They may seem incompetent, but their actions have always led to the truth. For that, I will believe him."

Fullbright looked shock, almost tearful. "C-Chief Prosecutor!"

Klavier played with a strand of his hair, looking down. "I, too, believe in Herr Justice Detective. He only did what he did because he was forced by the wicked phantom. I am willing to put aside what he did and give him a second chance."

At this, Fullbright started to weep. "P-Prosecutor Gavin! You believe meeeeee!"

Phoenix sighed, attracting everyone's attention.

"I... I believe in Fullbright's innocence as well."

"WHAT?!" was most of the court's reaction, Apollo most of all.

"B-But Mr. Wright! You were the one who proved the possibility that Detective Fullbright can be the phantom!"

He nodded, albeit solemnly. "I know. And I'm willing to admit that I was wrong."

By now, Fullbright was crying a river, taking a handkerchief to wipe away his tears, thankful that even Phoenix believed in him.

Edgeworth brought down his hand, a slight glare on his face. "However, even if it was against your will, you still acted as the phantom's accomplice. You will have to pay the price for that."

Fullbright fervently nodded. "Y-Yes! I will accept my punishment! Thank you! Oh, thank yooooou!"

His Honor lowered his head, a tear going down his eye. "S-Such a bond of trust is a rare and beautiful thing...! In any case, it looks like everything has been resolved. I can now hand down a "not guilty" verdict with confidence."

Fulbright nodded in agreement, having ceased his weeping. "Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Very good! I'm very glad to hear it! It's all over. Everything's been cleared up, and Ms. Cykes will go free as well!"

The detective stepped down from the stand, allowing Athena to take it, who looked very much sad. Apollo slumped down, gritting his teeth. "N-No. We can't let this trial end here! The phantom - the man who killed my best friend and Athena's mother - will get away!"

"Now, if you'll excuse me, my next investigation awaits! And with that... I'm off!"

As he was about to exit the courtroom, he was interrupted.

"Hold it!"

All eyes turned to Athena, looking determined. She flashed her peace sign, before cutting herself off. "The defense- No, wait... Not "the defense". The defendant feels it's not time for a verdict yet, and would like to see this trial continue."

"Wh-What?! But I was just about to declare you innocent of all charges!"

Athena hummed, feeling a bit uncomfortable "Hmm... It just doesn't feel right to be standing here. Hey, Apollo! Think you could scooch over?"

Apollo was surprised as his co-worked quickly jumped on to the side of defense bench. "A-Athena, what are you doing?!"

The ginger focused more on the detective, who had walked back up to the witness stand.

"I have some questions for you, Detective Fulbright. Are you relieved that you are no longer under suspicion of being the phantom? Are you grateful to Mr. Edgeworth and Prosecutor Gavin for what they've done for you?"

Fulbright nodded. "O-Of course I am! And I'm truly grateful from the bottom of my heart!"

Apollo raised an eyebrow, curious as to what she was doing. "Athena, where are you going with these questions?"

Athena didn't look at him, but replied back. "I have yet to hear a single emotion behind any of Detective Fulbright's words, Apollo. The suspicion against him has been cleared up, but he's not feeling happy at all."

The red attorney looked shocked. And also relieved. "What? Does that mean...?!"

Athena nodded, crossing her arms in confidence. "We may not have any evidence, but the heart doesn't lie!"

"That's it! With your special ability, we just might be able to stop him!" exclaimed Apollo.

The yellow attorney slammed her hand down, looking at the judge. "Your Honor! The detective has been deeply traumatized by our accusations!"

His Honor looked at the detective, who was displaying anger. "Hmm... Yes, well... Even before all this, I thought he was a rather odd fellow..."

Athena nodded. "If he doesn't get counseling right away, who knows what might happen to him?!"

Fulbright stopped his anger and laughed. "Hee hee hee hee! Hoo hoo hoo! HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! Prosecutor Gavin! Chief Prosecutor! Can you two believe the nonsense the defense is spouting?!"

Klavier shrugged, a smile on his face. "You better have that counseling, detective."

"Not you, too?!"

Edgeworth chuckled and shrugged as well. "I was planning on having you go through therapy after this, but it seems the opportunity presented itself. You have been acting off since a week ago. And with what you've gone through, I fear you've finally lost it."

"B-B-But I thought you two believed in me!"

"Objection!"came from the two prosecutors. Edgeworth silently chuckled, tapping his the side of his head smugly. "Learn a bit of sarcasm, Detective."

Apollo blinked and to his co-worker and boss. "I'm a bit lost. Anyone mind filling me in here?"

Phoenix chuckled and nodded. "Guess we left you in the dust, huh Apollo? We basically pretended to believe in Detective Fullbright to give Athena the chance to listen to his heart, so she could check if he had any emotion; like joy and relief."

The red attorney flinched in shock and looked at the four in shock. "Whaaaaaaaat?! You four were working together?! D-Do you all have some sort of mental link I'm missing out, or something?"

Gavin slammed his hand behind, smiling. "Achtung, Fraulein Cykes! Show us what's inside the detective's heart!"

Athena nodded at the blond and punched her palm in confidence. "You got it! Time to check the instant replay! Widget, mon ami! Let's do this!" Athena took hold of Widget and activated him. With a few hand motions, Widget's screen booted up, the Mood Matrix now in display.

Mood Matrix

-Fullbright's Utmost Gratitude-

Thank you so much for believing in me!

I am an undercover investigator, but the phantom was coercing me!

He stole the moon rock and killed Dr. Cykes seven years ago!

I'm a bad, bad person for cooperating with such a man

But he took my family hostage! What else could I do?!

Athena assessed the information. Apollo's jaw dropped, surprised that Fullbright had no any emotions, "Even with all his over-the-top expressions and gestures, he's registering no emotion at all?!

Athena nodded as she scanned through the testimony. "It's just like I thought, and right in line with the phantom's psych profile."

Fulbright remained silent, still having his blank expression. The ginger-haired attorney crossed her arms in confidence, smirking.

"Detective Fulbright! This lack of emotion proves you're the phantom! Hey!" The Mood Matrix switched up to the Noise Level, randomly switching and rising. "What's going on?!"

The Justice Detective was rotating the face of his watch, his sunglasses displaying some sort of screen. Phoenix was the first to react.

"Hold it! What do you think you're doing, Detective?"

Fulbright didn't react and just continued on. "Me? I'm not doing anything."

Athena tried to take back control, but couldn't. "He's trying to hack into the Mood Matrix program! I can't do anything with it like this!"

From the blown off ceiling, Taka swooped in and attacked Fullbright, forcing him to stop. Athena clasped, smiling brightly.

"Taka!" Athena clasped her hands, smiling brightly. The hawk flew right onto the ginger's shoulder, who quickly nuzzled her head. "Looks like Taka doesn't tolerate any of your cheating, detective."

The detective shook his head and started laughing. "Ha ha ha! Sorry about that! As an undercover agent, I tend to use my secret arsenal without even thinking!"

"More like, as a spy" thought almost everyone.

Athena smirked and took full control of Widget. "Now that you can't hack me anymore... I dare you to try to hide your lack of emotions from us!"

Fulbright's blank expression quickly became happy. "Ha ha ha ha ha! Lack of emotion? What are you talking about? Of course I have feelings!" He brought his napkins, crying. "As a matter of fact, you've wounded me very deeply with that accusation!

The yellow attorney was bewildered, suddenly getting a reaction from the supposed spy. "What's going on?! All of a sudden, I'm getting an overwhelmingly happy reading!"

Apollo looked at his friend with an exasperated expression. "Huh? But he's literally crying us a river over there..."

Fulbright realized thi "Oops. My mistake. How about this?" He quickly rectified his mistake, showing off his angry pose. "Graaaagh!

"Yikes!" hissed Athena. "Now he's angry all of a sudden?!"

Apollo pressed his finger on his forehead, looking very thoughtful. "What's he trying to pull?"

Using his famed Logic, Edgeworth explained. "It would seem that our friend here isn't completely without emotion. Based on Dr. Cykes's profiled on the phantom, the subject has a "unique psychological makeup with almost no emotional fluctuation.""

Phoenix strummed his chin, realizing what his friend meant. "Ah! It's not that he doesn't have any emotion, he still has SOME, right?"

Edgeworth nodded and crossed his arm with a thoughtful look. "Precisely. Which leads me to wonder why you can't sense any emotion from him at all. It's most likely because he is controlling his emotions."

Fullbright grinned and saluted the man. "You really are an intelligent man, Chief Prosecutor. You are correct! It's the result of my daily training! A very important skill for us undercover investigators, you know!"

"More like, 'for us SPIES'... Seriously." thought Phoenix. "But I wonder why he suddenly showed several strong emotions...? Is it possible...?"Phoenix brought down his hands, bringing everyone's attention to him. "You're trying to hide something, aren't you Detective?"

The Justice Detective laughed. "Ha ha ha! A feeling I'm trying to hide? That's a good one! You're the ones who have been saying I'm the phantom because I don't have any emotions! I was just trying to show you the range of deep emotions I truly possess!

Athena decided to take advantage of this ."Then you have no objections to me analyzing you, right?"

Fulbright pushed back his shades, not minding it. "...No. Analyze away. But I will state it again: I am not the phantom. And be forewarned that your analysis will have no effect! Because you're about to see what an undercover agent can really do!"

Mood Matrix

-Cross Examination-

Me, the phantom?! No way!

Oh, I'm so sad! *sob* See?! I told you I have emotions!-

How dare you accuse me of being someone who would kill over a moon rock?!

I do regret cooperating with the phantom, of course...

But I'm so glad this whole misunderstanding is cleared up now!

Phoenix flinched, losing his poker face. "What the hell?! How are we supposed to pick out what's unnatural from this mess?!

Athena shrugged and kept up the testimony in display. "I don't know what we can do with this, either..."

Apollo shuddered and tried to piped in. "I'd hate to know what's going on inside that guy's head..."

The head of the Wright Anything Agency hummed. "Well, we know he's hiding something, and that he feels threatened by Athena. Being only human, his true feelings - an emotion he can't completely conceal must be hidden somewhere in his testimony!"

Athena nodded and brought it up again. The three of them looked at each emotion on each part of the testimony with utmost focus. When they got to fourth of the testimony, Phoenix noticed one certain emotion that wasn't blinking. He thrust out his arm and called it out.

"Got it!"

Phoenix smirked victoriously. "Hidden in the middle of that chaotic storm, I saw one emotion that never disappeared. When you talked about the moon rock...you felt a fear that wouldn't fade!"

Fulbright pushed up his shades, repeating the emotion. "Fear... huh..."

Klavier struck the wall behind him, a similar smirk on his face. "A fear that a man with hardly any emotions feels, huh? Quite odd, ja?"

Athena nodded in agreement. "That's right. And it was a response to that moon rock!"

Fullbright remained silent, with Phoenix taking over the reins. "I think I know why you're afraid of the moon rock..." His mind wandered to the detective's words earlier, and it only solidified his thoughts. He slammed the bench and looked very serious. "You're afraid... because the moon rock would reveal your true identity!"

The detective remained silent, with Edgeworth nodding his head. "If his identity were revealed, he would be killed immediately... That's certainly enough to make even the phantom feel afraid."

Fulbright scoffed at the accusations, not looking any bit amused. "Me, afraid? I don't know what you're talking about."

Athena looked at her superior, wanting to confirm something. "So, there really is something about the moon rock that would reveal his identity...?"

Phoenix nodded. "Apparently so. By this logic, we'll need to examine the moon rock and since if it does have anything that can reveal his identity!"

Fullbright grunted and pressed a button on his watch, a grappling hook popping up and connecting to a part of the ceiling, pulling himself up. Edgeworth was the first to react it.

"Hold it! Where do you think YOU'RE going, detective?"

For some odd reason, Fullbright came back down, his face blank as a paper. "Me? I'm not going anywhere."

Phoenix thrust his arm out, glaring right at the supposed phantom. "Detective Fulbright! You will answer honestly to this court right now! Why do you feel fear in connection with the moon rock?"

The accused pulled out his badge with a proud gaze, emphasizing on his words. "In JUSTICE we TRUST! Not emotions, Mr. Lawyer! Evidence is everything. I'm the phantom because I'm afraid? Don't make me laugh!"

Once again, Fullbright pressed a button on his watch, the grappling hook coming out. But instead of using it to escape, he instead swung it right at Phoenix, nearing his face by a slight inch.

Phoenix calmed his nerves, trying to remind himself that this wasn't the first time he was attacked. Athena butted in, glaring at the detective.

"But all humans beings have hearts and experience emotions. Sometimes analyzing a case from the psychological perspective... ...is the best way to find the truth!"

She was then subjected to the same treatment Phoenix just received. Fullbright retracted back the hook, his face still expressionless.

"It's all just a waste of time. All your efforts at analysis serve no purpose. And now, in this dark age of the law, nobody would believe your claim that it's effective. In an era when evidence is fabricated, do you truly expect feelings to be accepted as proof? And where exactly is your "proof" that I fear the moon rock anyway?"

Athena slumped down onto the bench, gritting her teeth. "Ungh! ...W-Well, I admit, I don't have any conventional proof... But I still say that examining a person's heart has its merits!"

Fulbright glared her down. "Oh, really? Then why don't you listen carefully with those special ears of yours. Listen to the voices of the hearts of the people in the gallery."

Athena did so, listening to the loud muttering of the people. Her face contorted into sadness, realizing what the gallery felt. "All I hear... is distrust..."

"As you can see, the people are on my side." boasted Fullbright. "Because all they see is a strange little girl using a weird little machine."

Athena slammed both of her hands down and glared back, Widget blaring red. "But it's not like I use analytical psychology to falsely accuse people!"

Despite the emotion she was displaying, Phoenix could tell that Athena was doubting herself. Phoenix brought down his palms, wanting everyone's focus to shift to him.

"Even so, Ms. Cykes's analytical psychology has breathed new life into the courtroom. It has freed the hearts of many witnesses, and has been key in getting to the truth.

Fulbright laughed. "Ha ha ha! What nonsense! Your Honor, the defense's claim is a false one! I don't feel any kind of fear when it comes to the moon rock!"

His Honor hummed in thought. "Hmm, I see. Very well. I will give the opinion of this court. In a trial, I don't feel that a person's emotions are quite as compelling as actual evidence is."

Athena felt surprised, as well as heart-broken. "B-But, Your Honor..."

This made Fullbright laugh very hard, looking at the attorney with arrogance. "Hee hee hee hee! Hoo hoo hoo! HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! There! You see?! Nobody believes you and your trumped-up charges!"

But much to his shock, the judge continued. "However, I do believe Ms. Cykes's analyses can contribute to making the truth clear. I have seen her do this firsthand several times already."

Fulbright's jaw would've dropped if he didn't control his emotion. "Surely you jest."

Athena recovered, feeling very hopeful. "So does this mean... you will accept my findings in this trial, Your Honor?"

The judge nodded, giving the ginger a grandfatherly smile. "Yes, I believe your claim, Ms. Cykes. I think there is merit in examining why the witness feels fear in regard to the moon rock. That is the court's opinion on this matter."

The yellow attorney smacked her palm, grinning. "Then that's a win for me- No, a win for analytical psychology! Now, Mr. Phantom, you will tell this court the reason for your fear!"

Fulbright adjusted his shades, trying to hide the anger on his face. "Analytical psychology? My fears? Fine! I'll show you precisely why those abstract things can't be considered evidence!" He started laughing hysterically, almost like he had snapped. "Hee hee hee hee! Hoo hoo hoo! HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!"

Witness Testimony

- My Fear of the Moon Rock -

I felt fear when I thought about the moon rock because it reminded me of the phantom.
Yes, I'm very afraid of him because he took my family hostage.
What reason would the phantom have to be afraid of the moon rock?! None at all!
So the very fact that I'm afraid of the moon rock means I'm not him!
In fact, I'm on the side of... JUSTICE!

"...And there you have it." finished Fullbright. "Now do you see why I'm afraid of the moon rock?"

Edgeworth confidently shrugged. "Perhaps. But even a mere child can convince anyone with their lies. It matters not without any sort of evidence to back up your claim."

Fullbright glared at Edgeworth and pressed his watch yet again, releasing the grappling hook. He swung it right at the Chief Prosecutor, who quickly leaned back, dodging the swing. He brought down his hand, staring at his long-time friend.

"Wright, it's up to you to bring down the phantom. Only the cross-examination can drag out the truth from his testimony and help restore the faith of the people in the courts."

Phoenix smiled right at him and nodded. "You're right. You and I...we have duty to bring him down."

Edgeworth stood straight, recalling some of the things he learned years ago. "One could also say that the Dark Age of Law had truly started with us prosecutors; Blaise Debeste and Manfred von Karma were chief among them. They forged evidence, doing things for their own personal benefits; giving birth to the IS-7 and DL-6 cases."

Phoenix continued the story. "Then came along former Chief of Police, Damon Gant. He too, did the what he had to in order to convict Joe Dark by taking matters into his owns hands, which then led to the SL-9 case. And that's where you also started presenting some forged evidence."

Shame overcame Edgeworth as he nodded. "Quite right. And then there was the Yatagarasu; a triad consisting of a prosecutor, a defense attorney and a detective who broke the rules in order to steal the truth. Just like Gant, they took matters into their owns hands."

Everyone looked at Phoenix, who brought down his clenched hand, his teeth bared, clenched in anger and regret. The gallery, the prosecution, the co-counsels, the judge, and even Fullbright could see Wright's palm was bleeding.

"I also bear a part of the responsibility... The trial that led to me presenting forged evidence. The trial that ended with me losing my attorney's badge. And also the trial were the people started to lose faith in the system."

Klavier decided to pipe in, a forlorn expression on his face. "Ja. And there was also the UR-1 case, which led to Herr Blackquill's conviction. With that trial, the people finally realized on how horrible, corrupted and broken the law is."

The blond's eyes sparkled, every negative expression on his face disappearing, replaced with a look of conviction and joy. "But now, it is time for US to help put down the corruptions within the law, and restore back the righteousness of the court, and the faith of the people!"

This induced nothing but insane laughter from Fullbright, cackling madly.

"Hee hee hee hee! Hoo hoo hoo! HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! Trust? Understanding? Hah! Fragile ideals of the masses who are controlled by emotion. Humans can't truly trust each other, which is exactly why the illusion of trust is so enticing."

"Objection!" Phoenix glared at Fullbright and stood straight. "Once two people overcome their misgivings, that's where real trust is to be found. You're free to believe what you want, but... trust like that is stronger than you and your lies, always!"

Cross-Examination

- My Fear of the Moon Rock -

I felt fear when I thought about the moon rock because it reminded me of the phantom.

Yes, I'm very afraid of him because he took my family hostage.

What reason would the phantom have to be afraid of the moon rock?! None at all!

Phoenix smirked. It was very much obvious what he needed to present. He pulled up the Court Record and presented the Utility Knife.

"Objection! Detective Fulbright, I assume you know what this is."

Fulbright adjusted his glasses, quirking an eyebrow at the statement. "Of course! That's the knife the phantom used to kill Clay Terran!"

Phoenix nodded. "That's right." He placed on his mask of confidence and smirked at him. "And the exact same type of knife... Ms. Cykes used seven years ago when stabbed the phantom's hand."

"...Yes, that was discussed earlier, as I recall." he said with slight hesitance.

"Ms. Cykes then stated that she remembers the culprit bleeding." resumed Wright. "It's my theory that the culprit's blood got on the moon rock. And he was afraid that if the blood was analyzed, his true identity would be revealed. That explains why the phantom had to remove the moon rock from the crime scene!"

His Honor blinked, realizing what Phoenix meant. "You mean, if we ran the analysis now, we'd know who the phantom is?!"

Fulbright cackled. "Ha ha ha ha ha! Yes, I suppose so! But, unfortunately, the moon rock in question is missing!"

Phoenix shook his head, staring intensely at the man "That may be so, but I'm certain I can explain what happened to it in great detail.

"Y-You can?" asked the Judge.

"Of course, Your Honor. Let's look back to the video footage that caught the phantom leaving the premises. Now, the culprit supposedly removed the moon rock from the lab... but in this video of him, it's nowhere to be seen."

The judge squinted his eyes, staring at the screen. "Why, you're right! But how did that happen?"

The blue attorney proposed a possibility. "But here's something to consider. What if the phantom hid the moon rock somewhere at the scene of the crime?"

Athena looked at her Boss, agreeing with him. "Good thinking, Boss. Security was super tight at the Space Center back then."

Apollo pressed a finger to his forehead in thought. "Does this mean that the moon rock is still somewhere in the Space Center?"

Much to their shock, Phoenix shook his head. "No, unfortunately. The Space Center was searched from top to bottom, but the moon rock was never discovered. However," He brought down his hands, smirking. "I can prove where it went with this piece of evidence!"

He pulled up the Court Record yet again and presented the "Hope" Capsule.

"Take that!"

His Honor looked at the image, recognizing it. "That's the Hope capsule, right? The one that went up with the HAT-1 rocket?"

Phoenix nodded. "That's right. He couldn't carry the rock out, but he couldn't leave it in the Center to be found, either. So there was only one safe place to stash it. The Hope capsule that was there in the lab that day."

The judge hummed in thought, his eyes closed. "Hmm, yes. And the team must have loaded it onto the Hope space probe eventually. But... if that's what happened... then the moon rock would've been launched up into space along with the rocket!"

Edgeworth came to the same conclusion as well and flinched. "Ngoooooogh! It would mean... that for these past seven years, the moon rock was...!"

"Exactly." confirmed Phoenix. "The phantom got rid of the moon rock in the most "cosmic" way he knew how. It was out there in the depths of space... aboard the Hope space probe!"

The gallery went into an uproar, the co-counsels and prosecution having the same reaction. His Honor banged his gavel, silencing everyone. Edgeworth recovered, a look of realization on his face.

"So that's why the phantom tried to sabotage the HAT-1 still! He used his primary objective to destroy the sole evidence that could lead to his identity!"

Klavier nodded. "Indeed. But Herr Starbuck foiled that plot by safely returning home! The Hope space probe sailed off safely into the vast sea of space and returned seven years later, with the capsule still safe!"

Phoenix smiled, happy that the others saw what he was going for. "If we analyze the blood on the moon rock, it should make one thing crystal clear. That you were the phantom all along, Detective Fulbright!"

Apollo banged his fists down, realizing something. "So THAT'S why he killed Clay? Just to get back the moon rock?!"

"I believe so. His original assignment may have been just to sabotage the HAT-2, but... at the same time, he also had to retrieve the evidence of his crimes seven years ago. That's why he went to the boarding lounge... and attacked Clay as he made his "escape" out of the rocket with the capsule. But, in the end, it was all he could do just to escape himself, so he didn't get the capsule."

Apollo sadly smiled, remembering his best friend. "Clay must've done everything he could to stop Fulbright! He probably hung on to that capsule for all he was worth until his very last breath!"

Fulbright growled and seemed to start breaking down. "Nnnnnnnnnnngh... Hee hee hee hee! Hoo hoo hoo! HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! Oh, this is so funny! You make me laugh, you really do!"

Athena slumped, a bit crept out of the man's facial expressions. "Boy, he's totally out of whack now..."

Phoenix didn't care that he was insane. He needed to be put to justice. "It's game over for you, Detective Fulbright! Why don't you just admit to it all now?!"

Fulbright slammed the witness stand, glaring heatedly at the defense attorney. "There's nothing to admit! I'm Bobby Fulbright, undercover investigator, I tell you! I am not the phantom! The blood on the rock is just another one of his schemes! A trap!"

The judge seemed conflicted, not knowing what to say. "H-Hmm... Now I'm not sure what to think. I suppose if the phantom is a spy worth his salt, a trap is not out of the question."

"Objection! But in that case, you could say ANYTHING is a trap!" exclaimed Apollo.

Fulbright looked crazy, especially with his disproportionate eyes. "Hee hee hee hee! Hoo hoo hoo! HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! That's what makes a trap a trap! I've been framed into taking the blame for the phantom!" He went back to 'crying' in order to catch sympathy. "Your Honor! I believe further investigation is in order!"

"Objection!" shouted Edgeworth. "You aren't the first person I've faced to try and halt questioning in order to escape. You WILL be brought to justice. Right here. Right now!"

Fullbright growled, glaring at the Chief Prosecutor. "I guess it's time to show you just what I'm really capable of." He reached for his holster, a smirk on his face. "Die, Miles Edgeworth!"

But before he could even grab his gun, the doors to the courtroom were slammed open, a voice interjecting.

"Hold it, pal!"