Phoenix Wright: Tides of Fate Chapter 2: Serenade Turnabout: Investigations, a phoenix wright: ace attorney fanfic

Phoenix Wright: Tides of Fate

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Disclaimer: I do not own Phoenix Wright characters or the anything along those lines.

Original Characters created for cases are owned by me because I created them.

Shall we continue? The Serenade Turnabout has officially begun with Athena as the prime suspect? She is not having much luck these days, is she?

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First Turnabout: Serenade Turnabout

Episode Two: Investigations

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It took about ten minutes before Gumshoe arrived on the scene. Ema was right beside him and the two began to examine the scene while Simon Blackquill kept an eye on Athena Cykes. He asked, "Now Prosecutor Blackquill, what did you see when you first arrived on the scene pal?"

Simon shook his head and said, "Sadly, I saw Athena standing over the body with a gun in her hand. It is the one on the ground right near her. We heard two gunshots and came to investigate."

Gumshoe held up his hand and said, "Hold on a minute, we?"

Trucy softly said, "I was with him when he discovered the scene. I was about to call my father and Apollo to come to check the scene as well."

Gumshoe nodded and Trucy went a distance away to make the call on her phone.

Phoenix answered his phone in the office and said, "What is it Trucy? Have you found her?"

Trucy said, "Sadly, I have. She was found holding a gun over a dead man. The man's name was Edgar Ora Chest."

Phoenix nearly dropped the phone in shock, but recovered and said, "Are you certain that it is him?"

Trucy said, "Dead certain daddy. I think you and Apollo should come down to check the scene immediately."

Phoenix said, "We're on our way, we should be there in ten minutes, where are you?"

Trucy said, "The park where the first murder occurred that Apollo took on for the Anything Agency."

Phoenix said, "Got it, stay there with Athena, don't let them take her away, I want to question her myself." He hung up the phone and left the office with Maya, Pearl and Apollo beside him.

Trucy walked back over to Athena and gently took Athena's right hand and said, "It will be alright Athena, daddy is coming right now."

Athena whispered, "It just can't be. I hated him sure, but I didn't shoot him!"

Trucy said, "I know Athena, I know."

Gumshoe walked up and said, "Well I have to take her down for questioning pal, sorry about this."

Trucy said, "Can I ask you to hold on Detective? My father wants to question her himself."

Gumshoe said, "Yeah we can wait, so long as she doesn't leave the scene. Will you stay here pal?"

Athena said, "Of course I will, I don't run from things."

Simon said, "Really? Like you didn't run from the Ur-1?"

Athena frowned and said, "I didn't have a choice, you falsified your testimony to protect me Simon, or did you forget that little detail?"

Widget said, "Big meanie!"

Simon smiled then said, "True, I did cause that trouble back then. We wait for Wright-Dono."

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Phoenix pulled up in a cab a few minutes later and got out of the car. He walked quickly over to Athena and knelt beside her and asked, "What happened Athena? I want your official statement right now."

Athena said, "I got a letter from the victim of this case. It asked me to arrive here at five in the morning. I arrived at two am."

Phoenix said, "After we were put into a sleeping state you mean."

Athena said, "I-"

Phoenix asked, "If you want us to defend you, we need to know everything. I saw a psyche lock when I asked you about the envelope. Talk to me Athena."

The lock reappeared and Athena said, "I can't just tell you."

Phoenix said, "I think I can guess anyways, the letter had something to do with your special hearing and it upset you. Then you put sleeping pills in our coffee so we would all fall asleep. That was to ensure we wouldn't interfere with the future conversation."

Athena hung her head and a tear slowly slid down her cheek. She whispered, "I'm sorry, I needed to handle it alone."

Apollo wiped away the tear and said, "Don't worry, there was no real harm done. You didn't overdo it and we are all fine."

Maya said, "You could have just told us about the letter and asked us to stay out of it."

Athena held her left arm and said ,"I know, I just was afraid he wouldn't show up if more than I were here."

Maya said, "I don't bear any anger towards you, but next time just talk to us, can we see the letter?"

Athena pulled it out and handed it to Phoenix. The letter said the following...

"Athena Cykes, your special hearing is nothing but a blight on this world. I demand to speak to you as I blame that special hearing for Metis' death. Come to the park alone at five am and tell no one of this or else the consequences could be dire."

Phoenix finished reading it out loud and said, "Sounds more like a blackmail letter to me. Tell me what happened after you arrived here."

Athena said, "Nothing much happened until he showed up. We argued about my hearing and after a heated argument, he pulled out that very gun. He fired one shot at me so I ducked behind the trash can. I heard a second shot ring out and I heard a loud thud. When I looked out a minute later, he was dead on the path."

Apollo asked, "What about you holding the gun Athena?"

Athena said ,"I was in shock, so I picked it up without thinking with my left hand. It was then that Simon and Trucy came up behind me and called out to me. I dropped the gun in shock after being questioned as to what happened."

Phoenix tilted Athena's head to stare him in the eyes and asked, "Did you shoot him?"

Athena said, "Not on your life Boss! I kill him, I swear it!"

Phoenix studied her carefully then said, "I believe you Athena. Apollo, are we taking this case?"

Apollo clenched his fists and said, "Absolutely! It will be the chance to make up for suspecting her in Clay's murder. Don't you worry Athena, I will find you not guilty without a doubt."

Phoenix smiled and said, "I figured as much, I will be supporting you as the co-defense this time."

Apollo said, "I appreciate it."

Gumshoe said, "If you two are done questioning her, I will take her downtown now pal."

Apollo said, "Wait a minute Detective. I have one more question for her. Athena, do you have any idea how he may have died?"

Athena began to play with her earring like she did whenever she was deep in thought and said, "Come to think of it, there was something that was off about him when he arrived. I can't put my finger on it, but it almost felt like it wasn't the victim when he showed up. I don't have any proof of that of course, but the way he carried himself was a little off compared to his normal behavior."

Blackquill said, "True, but that could be because of how long it has been since you saw him last Athena. The way he carried himself is not enough to prove your innocence alone."

Gumshoe asked, "Prosecutor Blackquill, are you taking on this case?"

Blackquill shook his head and said, "This is one case I won't be taking on. I am too invested in it. I knew Edgar from a few meetings back when I met with Metis, not to mention the defendant is Athena herself."

Phoenix said, "Didn't stop you from pursuing her when it was that last case."

Blackquill said, "That was more about taking down the Phantom than it was pursuing her. I knew Athena wasn't the killer from the start. Not of Clay Terran or her mother. This is the reason why I took on that case. I refuse to be the prosecutor for the daughter of one of my dearest friends."

Athena slowly got to her feet and said, "Detective, I'm ready to go to the Detention Center, but could I ask you not to cuff me? I am coming willingly after all."

Gumshoe said, "Normally we would cuff you, it's part of the job pal. However because Mr. Wright is a long time friend of mine, I won't. If you try to run though, I will not hesitate to open fire on you, if you can accept those conditions pal, I can let you go with no cuffs."

Athena nodded and said, "That is fine, I will come quietly. Apollo, Boss I'm sorry for what I am putting you through."

Phoenix said, "We will get to the bottom of this Athena." He watched as Athena got into the police car and was driven away with Detective Gumshoe and Simon Blackquill. Ema Skye stayed behind to investigate the scene more carefully.

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Athena sat in the back of the car, still a bit shaken about what had happened. She looked at Gumshoe who was driving the car and asked, "What is going to happen to me Detective?"

Gumshoe said, "Well Mr. Wright and Mr. Justice are on this case, so if you are not guilty, they will find the evidence. Of that I have no doubt pal, but I have to admit it doesn't look good."

Athena sighed and said, "Yeah, I suppose it doesn't. I really didn't shoot him."

Gumshoe said, "I actually do believe you pal, but my hands are tied. You are the most likely suspect in this case. I heard that there were a couple times that you said how much you hated him. Unfortunately that's a motive pal."

Athena groaned and said, "I wish I had never said that. I hated him sure, but I didn't want him to die."

Gumshoe said, "Whether that is true or not will be determined in the trial pal. Until then, we will hold you for questioning."

Athena sat back and began to play with her earring and thought, "Something is still nagging at me about this." She spoke up, "Detective, why did the victim bring a gun to the park?"

Gumshoe said, "So far it looks like you brought the gun along with you. I will be checking the prints on the gun myself pal. I know for a fact prints from your left hand will be on it, but hopefully we find prints from another person on it."

Athena said, "The first time I ever saw that gun was when it was in his hand."

Gumshoe said, "I hope that's true, for your sake pal."

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Apollo asked, "Ema, mind if I start my investigation as well?"

Ema pulled out a bag of chips and began to eat one before she said, "Sure, why not? Just don't remove anything from the scene, you know the drill Apollo."

Apollo grinned and said, "Sure thing, you're the best." He walked off, Trucy stayed right beside him as they investigated. He felt like it was back on his first year of the job. He and Trucy had been quite the team back then.

Phoenix, meanwhile, was checking out the body. He pulled out a camera then said, "Say Cheese." He took a picture of the victim's body with the blood under him.

Maya blinked and asked, "Cheese Nick, really?"

Phoenix said, "Its something Athena did when she took a picture of the first case she took the lead on. I just figured I'd keep that alive." He knelt beside the body and said, "Interesting, it almost looks like the bullet wound was blocked until just a short while ago."

Maya said, "How do you figure that?"

Phoenix said, "The area around the wound is pushed outward a bit, almost like something was taken out of his body." He stood up and checked where the garbage can was located and didn't find any bullets. He thought, "Strange, if she was shot at, there should be a bullet this direction somewhere." He began to search while Maya and Pearl began to check out the scene.

Maya thought and said, "Nothing about this is adding up, why isn't there any bullets on this scene? We can safely assume there's a bullet in the victim, yet according to Athena there were two shots fired."

Trucy and Apollo walked up, they were holding a bullet in a bag.

Phoenix asked, "Is that what I think it is?"

Apollo nodded and said, "Indeed, Ema just pulled it out of a tree. She gave me a map of the park, here take it."

Phoenix looked at the map that was just added to the court record. It showed two offices in the near vicinity, the path and an X had been drawn on the map. He said, "I take it that X is where the bullet was found."

Trucy said, "That is what Ema said anyways. If you look though, the trajectory of the bullet is in line from Athena past where the victim was found, assuming of course that she was near the garbage can. It does fit with where the wound on the victim is."

Phoenix gasped and took a closer look then said, "You're right. If Athena did fire those shots, it lines up perfectly, this isn't good."

Apollo said, "Yes, it really isn't good at all. On top of that, there is another bit of evidence that was recovered off the body by Ema before you arrived."

Phoenix asked, "And that would be what Apollo?"

Apollo said, "Leaves, dead leaves in particular. The park attendants had raked up all the leaves in the park a couple of days ago, yet they hadn't bagged them yet. It may be nothing, but this could be a valuable clue."

Phoenix said, "Perhaps, where on the body where they?"

Apollo took the photo Phoenix had taken of the victim and circled on the victim's trench-coat and said ,"They were found stuck inside the collar of the victim. It's possible that some fell from the trees, yet something doesn't add up. If you look around, there are no leaves on the trees right now."

Phoenix said, "Do we have any of the leaves?"

Trucy handed him a bag which had one of the leaves inside.

Phoenix took a close look through the bag and said, "Interesting, if I'm not mistaken this is from a tree that isn't near the body. How peculiar."

Pearl took a look and said, "It's from a cherry tree Mr. Nick. I know because there are tons of them near the village."

Trucy said, "That's what it looks like to me as well, but if you look around here there isn't a cherry tree nearby. Especially not one with leaves on it."

Apollo said, "It's not enough, but its a start. How did leaves from a cherry tree get from one of the piles in the park into the victim's collar. If he came in to talk to Athena, he shouldn't have a single leaf on him. It also wasn't windy last night or this morning."

Phoenix said, "We still can't escape the fact that she was seen holding the gun while standing over the victim. I wish she hadn't picked it up, it would have made this so much simpler."

Maya said, "What do we do Nick?"

Phoenix said, "I am going to have another questioning session with Athena."

Apollo said, "I am coming with you, I want to hear more about what led up to the incident, in particular what happened in more detail between her and the victim in the past."

Phoenix nodded and said, "Would you girls keep investigating while we are gone?"

Trucy said, "You can count on us."

Phoenix smiled and said, "I know I can, that's why I'm leaving the three of you here." He turned and went to the street and got a cab with Apollo.

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After about half an hour, Phoenix and Apollo reached the detention center. They found Athena behind the glass. She had just finished being questioned at more length by Detective Gumshoe.

Gumshoe said, "If you wish to talk to her, make it brief pal. What I heard from her does not sound good for the defense, so I hope you have an ace up your sleeve this time. Also I got the results of the autopsy report and the fingerprint analysis on the gun while you were investigating the park."

Phoenix swallowed then asked, "I'm guessing it isn't good for us."

Gumshoe nodded and handed over the results. According to the report, only Athena Cyke's fingerprints were found on the gun. He pulled open the autopsy report and read it out loud for Apollo and Athena to hear.

"Victim: Edgar Ora Chest, Age 42. Died from a fatal gunshot wound to the heart. Signs of swelling near the entry point are present and no information is known as to why it is there. No gunshot residue was found on the victim. Leaves were found in the victim's trench-coat collar. Estimated time of death 2-6 am."

Apollo blinked and said, "Kind of a vague estimated time of death isn't it Detective?"

Gumshoe said, "That's something we still haven't figured out pal. It should be more concrete given the timing of the police call."

Phoenix said, "That may be a start for a counter attack. The swelling and the leaves are another opening."

Apollo said, "Athena, what happened between you and the victim? I know you told us some of it last night, but you didn't tell us everything did you?"

Athena said, "What I told you is all I can remember, we had a disagreement about my special hearing and I hated my mother for bringing him into my life. That's all that happened."

Apollo blinked and held his arm and said, "You're lying to me Athena. I can tell, I want you to look me in the eyes and tell me that again."

Athena held her left arm and repeated her statement.

Apollo said, "Gotcha!" He stared at her, "Right as you said, "That's all that happened." you gently squeezed your left arm. What are you hiding from me?"

Athena swallowed and said, "I-"

Apollo slammed his hand on the counter and said, "I can't help you if you aren't honest with me. What happened Athena!"

Athena sighed and said, "Guess I can't hide it from either of you. He...violated me when I was eleven years old."

Apollo held his wrist again and said, "It's still reacting Athena, you're hiding more from me."

Phoenix said, "I think I can guess what happened...he violated you and it was then that you tried to tell your mother about it."

Athena gasped and asked, "How did you know?"

Phoenix said, "You forget, I can see Red Psyche Locks and you're hiding something big, there are five of them Athena. If you want us to take on this case, we need to know it all."

Athena groaned and held her head, "Every day I have tried to forget about it."

Apollo whispered, "He took your virginity...didn't he."

Athena held her hand over her eyes and whispered, "Yes, and my mother never believed me. It was a week later that she was murdered by the Phantom."

Phoenix said, "There's more isn't there Athena?"

Athena said, "I think he was working with the Phantom. I caught him on the phone, remember how I told you about that? I managed to overhear something he said. His exact words were, "The launch happens in two days, I trust you are prepared."

Phoenix saw the last psyche lock break and said, "You believe he is partly responsible for your mother's death don't you. That isn't good Athena, that can be used against you in court."

Athena shook slightly and said, "I know Boss alright? Part of me never forgave him for taking my virginity and my mother from me!" She slammed her hand onto the counter on the other side of the glass and said, "I won't say I'm not sorry he's dead, but I didn't kill him! I wouldn't take a life like that, even if the scumbag deserved it!"

Phoenix said, "Well I don't see any psyche locks, your bracelet reacting Apollo?"

Apollo shook his head and said, "She's not lying, that much I can guarantee on this one. Athena, when this is all over, maybe I will treat you to your favorite restaurant or something."

Athena smiled and said, "That would be nice." She felt a hand on her shoulder and spun ready to punch whoever it was as she was still on edge, but froze when she saw it was Mr. Edgeworth.

Edgeworth said, "Jumpy, aren't you Miss Cykes?"

Athena swallowed hard and said, "Y-yes, I guess you could say so, sorry."

Edgeworth tipped his glasses closer to his face and said, "Think nothing of it. Come along, I have a few questions for you, oh and Wright, I have some news for you."

Phoenix blinked then asked, "What is it?"

Edgeworth said, "As Blackquill will not prosecute her, I have found a replacement for him. It is someone that you know fairly well."

Phoenix groaned and said, "Not Franziska, please?"

Edgeworth said, "No, it isn't her. You will meet the prosecutor tomorrow. Don't underestimate her because this is her first case, or you will sorely regret it!" He walked off with Athena.

Apollo thought out loud, "I wonder who it could be. It isn't Prosecutor Gavin, he's a guy after all."

Phoenix said, "I don't know either, but he said we know her. We had best be prepared for anything."

Apollo nodded and the two returned to the office to prepare the defense.

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The next morning in the Defendant's lobby room...

Apollo groaned as he sat on the couch. He rubbed sleep out of his eyes and said, "I couldn't sleep too well. I can't let her down on this case."

Phoenix said, "Don't worry, she's innocent, we just have to prove it. Of course this won't be easy Apollo. The evidence is highly stacked against her, but we have dealt with worse. The good news is that the victim's blood isn't anywhere on her. Of course that doesn't matter for anything seeing as the weapon was a gun."

Apollo glanced over at Athena who was sitting in the lobby silent and her position was stiff. She was really nervous for some reason. He walked over and tapped her on the shoulder.

Athena gasped and recoiled like she had been shocked. She said, "Don't DO that Apollo, jeez!"

Apollo blinked and asked, "Something isn't right, why have you been jumpy ever since he died?"

Athena shook her head and said, "I don't know, something isn't adding up and its really bothering me. I can't figure out why he had a gun on him in the first place, unless his true intention was to kill me."

Phoenix said, "That's a definite possibility. After what happened when you were a child, maybe he was afraid it would finally come out in the open. It's a pretty strong motive for murder on either side."

Athena groaned and said, "Am I going to be okay Boss?"

Phoenix smiled and rubbed the top of her head softly. He said, "If Apollo and I have anything to say about it, yes!"

The bailiff said, "We are ready for you now, come in Mr. Wright."

Phoenix nodded and said, "Come along Athena, let's prove your innocence today."

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Turnabout Serenade: Trial Day One

When they walked in, they found that the Judge's seat was vacant, as was the prosecutor's position. Apollo looked around and asked, "Where are they?"

The bailiff said, "Take your positions, the Judge will be out in a moment, as will the Prosecutor."

A few minutes after Phoenix and Apollo settled themselves at the defense table, they saw a young woman emerge from the door where the Judge normally walked in from. Apollo's jaw dropped as he nearly shouted, "Juniper? You're the judge?"

She sat down at the judge's chair and banged her new gavel and said, "Order in the court." After the audience had settled down, she said, "Yes Mr. Justice, I am presiding as the judge in this case. It was a special request from Chief Prosecutor Edgeworth. The regular judge is sick, so I am filling in for this case."

The door opened and another person walked in. She strode past Athena and took the prosecutor's position. She turned to face Phoenix and said, "I hope you won't go easy on me just because I'm a g-i-r-l!"

Athena gasped and said, "Robin? Why are you prosecuting this case?"

Robin said, "Simply put, I was requested by Mr. Edgeworth. Apparently no prosecutor wanted to go against Mr. Wright in this case. Nevertheless, I intend to question the defendant with all of my might and get to the truth of the case. That is the ideals that she would have wanted."

Athena whispered, "Professor Courte."

Robin said, "For her memory, I promise you Athena, if you are guilty, I will make certain you get the Death Penalty for the killing of Edgar Ora Chest."

Juniper said, "If you are all quite done, court is now in session, so quit your small talk and let's get this started. Miss Newman, your opening statement if you would?"

Robin smiled and said, "With pleasure. According to the facts of this case, the Prosecution indicts Athena Cykes in the count of murder of Edgar Ora Chest. Her motive is quite simple to understand, she had a grudge against the victim for incidents in her past."

Apollo called out, "Objection! Do you have proof of this?"

Robin said, "I wouldn't be standing here if I didn't Mr. Justice. The proof is right in the letter she received. With your permission Miss Woods, I would like to read it to the court."

Juniper said, "By all means, please do so now."

Robin cleared her throat and read, "Athena Cykes, your special hearing is nothing but a blight on this world. I demand to speak to you as I blame that special hearing for Metis' death. Come to the park alone at five am and tell no one of this or else the consequences could be dire."

Phoenix thought, "This may be a chance for us to counter, but let's see what our prosecutor has to say about it first."

Robin lowered the letter and said, "This would be what you could classify as a threat against Miss Cykes, there is no question there. It is blackmail plain and simple."

Juniper asked, "Then why would Miss Cykes take his life?"

Robin wagged her finger and said, "Oh it has to do with her past of course, much like the UR-1 and Clay Terran's death caused her to be a suspect in the first place. I'm sorry Miss Cykes, but I will do what I must. When she was eleven years old, the victim robbed her of her virginity, an act she had never forgiven him for. It is for that reason she committed murder in the early hours of the morning."

Apollo called out, "Objection! Miss Cykes insists that she did not bring a gun to the scene, nor did she actually fire it. I have a document right here that proves something of importance." He held out a report of the defendant's condition upon arrest. He read, "The defendant did not have gunpowder residue on her body anywhere."

Robin wagged her finger and said, "Did you forget already Mr. Justice? She fell to her knees after dropping the gun she had fired. She could have very easily brushed the residue off her body. The fact that she was found with the gun in her hand and was found by a number of people standing over the body are immutable."

Apollo groaned and wiped his forehead then said, "I'd like to hear from some of these witnesses."

Robin said, "I was wondering when you'd ask that Mr. Justice, the prosecution calls Detective Gumshoe to the stand."

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Gumshoe stepped onto the stand and said, "I will now outline the details of the case for the court's records. The name is Chief Detective Dick Gumshoe. I apologize in advance to the defense, but I must report the facts exactly as we have found them."

Phoenix grimaced and thought, "Best brace ourselves, here it comes."

Testimony: The Crime Scene

Gumshoe began, "Between the hours of two and five am, the defendant Athena Cykes was in the park. This was after she had already drugged Mr. Wright, Miss Maya Fey and Mr. Justice in the Anything Agency."

He continued, "Upon the victim's arrival, a heated argument ensued, which resulted in a gun being drawn by the defendant who fired once. This bullet missed her target and struck a tree behind the victim."

He concluded, "Due to the entry angle of the wound, it can only be assumed he tried to rush her to disarm her, however she fired again, this time killing Mr. Ora Chest in one fatal shot. This murder was planned from the beginning, as Miss Cykes had the gun ready."

Juniper said, "If the statement stands as is, I will have to rule in favor of the prosecution. I would like to assume that the defense will cross-examine the witness."

Apollo said, "Absolutely we will." He thought, "There has to be some form of inconsistency in that testimony, but it isn't exactly obvious yet. I will have to press it out a bit."

Cross-examination: The Crime Scene

Apollo said, "Hold it!" He thought then asked, "Detective, where did she get a hold of the drugs that put us to sleep?"

Gumshoe said, "Sleeping medication can be gotten anywhere, but I would draw the court's attention to this prescription. It was granted to her after the incident where Simon Blackquill was found not guilty. Apparently she was having a hard time sleeping." He presented the medication which stated, "Sleeping pills, high dosage. One pill is enough to put the person to sleep for about three hours."

Apollo winced then said, "Please continue Detective."

Gumshoe continued, "Upon the victim's arrival, a heated argument ensued, which resulted in a gun being drawn by the defendant who fired once. This bullet missed her target and struck a tree behind the victim."

Apollo called out, "Hold it." He began to think, "I don't want to dive too deeply here, but I must find out more." He asked, "There is one major problem with this statement. Miss Wright and Miss Maya Fey went to Athena's apartment. She hadn't returned since the night before the incident. This is evident by the fact that the dishes from her dinner were over a day old. Also, Mr. Wright and I questioned her at the Anything Agency after the Opera. When did she slip away to purchase a gun in this time frame?"

Gumshoe scratched his chin then said, "Well I can't really say for certain as I am not the defendant, however she did slip away for three hours before the victim's death. According to a local weapon's shop where the fun was found to have been purchased, it was purchased by a young woman around eighteen years of age. The person who purchased the gun had a hat on that hid her hair and sunglasses, but she was wearing the same yellow dress that Miss Cykes is wearing right now. We can only deduce that she purchased the gun at this time for the sole purpose to kill the victim in cold blood."

Apollo gasped and made a note on the court record, which updated the gun's information to point out the time of purchase. He then asked, "Don't you think that she would be smarter than to buy a gun that could be traced?"

Gumshoe said, "Obviously not, so unless you can prove that she was nowhere near that shop at the time of purchase, my statement stands."

Apollo thought for a moment, "Hang on a minute, that shop has surveillance correct? Do you have that on file?"

Gumshoe showed a video that was played.

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The video...

A young woman wearing a large hat and glasses walked in. She said, "I need a .38 caliber pistol for self defense."

The shop-keeper said, "Do you have a license?"

The woman said, "Yes, I am a defense attorney. I have recently been targeted by blackmail and I want to have a method to defend myself if the need arises."

The shop-keeper frowned and said, "I don't like selling weapons for that reason, however if you have a license, there isn't much I can do about it. I need to see it though."

The young woman slid a piece of paper and her ID card to the shop-keeper.

The shop-keeper said, "Well Miss Cykes, it seems everything is in order. I have a pistol that will work, it has eight shots and should be more than enough. It will cost 100$."

The young woman paid the money and pocketed the gun and walked out of the store.

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Apollo grimaced then said, "Hold it, does Athena have her ID on her right now?"

Athena said, "No, it went missing a day ago."

Apollo stared at Gumshoe and asked, "Well?"

Gumshoe said, "That is a lie. We found her ID card in the trash can right near where she claims to have hidden during the incident."

Apollo paused for a moment then said, "I'd like that statement added to the record."

When Gumshoe repeated it, Apollo said, "Hold it!" He paused then asked, "Was it on the very top of the pile in the trash can Detective?"

Gumshoe shook his head and said, "No, it was buried a bit under some trash."

Apollo pulled out a picture Ema Skye had given him before the trial and said, "Miss Woods, if you would take a look at this. The footprints here show only one pair, they belong to the defendant Athena Cykes. Note the angling of the prints? They aren't clear as though she were crouched down, rather than standing up. Why would she be crouching down if she were firing on the victim?"

Juniper said, "That's an excellent question, do you have an answer Miss Newman?"

Robin wagged her finger and said, "Do you know nothing about guns Mr. Justice?"

Apollo said, "Honestly I don't know that much about them. I have never used one, why have you used one?"

Robin answered, "Yes I have."

Apollo gaped at her and said, "You WHAT?"

Robin said, "To be frank, I used to partake in target practice at the academy. Rather than archery, I learned how to fire a firearm. That said, it is easier to steady one's aim while crouched. This is precisely what the defendant did in this case."

Apollo said, "Interesting, your assessment of the situation is that her killing shot came from when she was crouched, is that correct?"

Robin said, "A-b-s-o-l-u-t-e-l-y!"

Apollo said, "But that's impossible. The first shot on the tree was fired from a straight on angle, not to mention the victim wound was on a straight angle as well as though from a standing position. How did she aim the gun from level height while crouched!"

The onlookers began to buzz in surprise.

Juniper banged her gavel and called out, "Order in the court! This is a serious problem with the prosecution's case. How do you explain that?"

Robin thought for a moment then said, "Is it not possible she crouched to ready the gun, then stood up to fire?"

Apollo said, "Also impossible, the footprints near the trash can do not show any standing prints. If she stepped away from the can, she wouldn't have a clear shot that would hit both the tree and the victim."

Robin wagged her finger and said, "Do you have p-r-o-o-f?"

Apollo winced and said, "Not at this time, however something is also bothering me about this purchasing of the gun. Your honor could we replay that video? I will tell you when to pause it."

Juniper nodded and the video began to play again. Apollo said, "Pause it right there. Zoom in and enhance on the hand sliding the ID across the table."

It zoomed in on the hand and Apollo said, "Just as I thought. Miss Cykes, that glove you wear on your right hand, its one of a kind isn't it?"

Athena said, "That's right, my mother made it for me personally. She made it to go with Widget so I could use the screen effectively. There is nothing like it in the world. The moment my hand fit the glove, I put it on and only take it off when I shower or sleep."

Apollo crossed his arms with a smirk on his face and asked, "I have never seen you without it, Widget or your earring for that matter. I also saw that glove on your hand before you drugged us. If you want further proof of that, feel free to get the surveillance from our office."

Phoenix smiled and said, "Good job Apollo, one more push now."

Apollo said, "The fact she was wearing the glove on the night in question can be verified by not only myself and Mr. Wright, but also by Maya Fey and even yourself Detective." He looked at Gumshoe and said, "She was also wearing the glove after her arrest, was she not?"

Gumshoe nodded and said, "That's right, as far as I have seen, she hasn't taken it off at all, where are you going with this?"

Apollo said, "Note the hand in the video? Yes the person is wearing a glove, but note how it is a generic glove and not the specialized one you see on her hand right now. The hand outstretched is the right hand. Where is the specialized Widget Glove Detective, or did you just happen to miss it?"

Gumshoe gasped and said, "You're right pal! She's not wearing a glove, how odd!"

Robin called out, "Objection! She could have just taken the glove off to hand over the ID card!"

Apollo asked, "Miss Cykes, have you ever touched that card with your right hand without the glove on?"

Athena said, "Never, I always pull it out with my left hand."

Apollo said, "This is a contradiction your honor. The video shows a young woman handing over Athena's ID card, yet the glove she has just stated to always wear is nowhere to be seen. I can also confirm she has never taken this glove off in my presence."

A female voice called out, "Objection!" Robin was wagging her finger calmly from the prosecutor's bench and said, "Really now, what does this have to do with anything? I never once stated for the record that she planned the crime in advance. The only thing I said was that she fired the gun which killed the victim. So long as her fingerprints are on the gun and it was the weapon that killed the victim, my claim is immutable."

Apollo gasped and thought, "Damn, she's right."

Robin shook her head and said, "The only person here who said the crime was pre-planned was that addle-brained detective over there."

Gumshoe grimaced as Robin smiled once more and said, "I think we've heard enough from you Detective, it's time to call the next witness."

Apollo said, "Hold it! If you honestly think I'm just going to let go that it appears to be someone else purchasing the gun, you are sadly mistaken Miss Newman."

Robin said, "I never once cared about who purchased the gun. It could be Mr. Wright over there for all I care. All I care about is ascertaining whether or not she actually killed the victim. That is all Mr. Justice."

Apollo stared at her then said, "I have one request, I'd like to have the video investigated in more detail. The defense asserts that it was not Athena who purchased the gun and if that is so, the woman on the tape is integral to the case, maybe even critical."

Juniper said, "Very well, I concur with the defense's position on the matter. Detective, take the video away for examination. I want to know who that woman is, is that clear?"

Gumshoe nodded and said, "Sure thing pal, I'll get right on that." He left the witness stand.

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Testimony: First on the scene

Robin straightened at the prosecutor's desk to a more sturdy position. It kind of reminded Apollo of how she stood when she was falsifying her gender. She called out, "I call Trucy Wright to the stand."

The people in the gallery began to buzz loudly at this. The girl being called was, after all, the daughter of Phoenix Wright.

Juniper banged her gavel and said, "Order in the court!"

Trucy stood up and went to the stand and stood there.

Robin said, "State your name and occupation for the court Miss Wright."

Trucy said, "Name's Trucy Wright, magician girl extraordinaire. Would you like me to show you how to make the evidence vanish?"

Phoenix groaned and thought, "This is not the time Trucy, please don't be silly up there."

Trucy's face turned serious then she said, "Athena Cykes is no killer. The way she reacted when we confronted her was not the actions of a killer. I should know, I've dealt with them many times in the past."

Phoenix blinked then whispered, "Apollo, you may want to let me handle this one. I know my daughter better than anyone."

Apollo nodded and said, "Your honor, the co-defense will be taking charge of the cross-examination in this testimony."

Juniper said, "Very well, Miss Wright, you still haven't told us what your occupation is."

Trucy smiled and said, "Magician, one of the best in the country I should add." She snapped her fingers and the gavel appeared in her hand, "Just like that. You'd be surprised."

Juniper frowned and said, "Give that back Miss Wright."

Phoenix groaned and said, "Trucy, could you please NOT anger the judge?"

Trucy tipped her hat and the gavel appeared next to Juniper again. She said, "Sorry, sometimes I get a little bit carried away." It was then that she tipped her hat straight and said, "I'm guessing you want to know about when I found Athena at the scene."

Robin said, "For now, yes that is just it."

Trucy said, "Very well, but it won't bode well for the prosecution for once." She took a breath then began her testimony.

"I had been searching for Athena for a couple of hours, ever since arriving back at the office to find my father, Apollo and Miss Fey asleep under the influence of sleeping pills."

"I enlisted the aid of Simon Blackquill and his pet hawk Taka. He's such a sweet, kind bird."

"We heard a shot ring out in the crisp early morning. We started to go towards the direction of the shot we heard, then heard a second shot. We started to sprint at that point."

"What I saw when I entered the scene was surprising to say the least, but if you want more details you're going to have to ask specific questions."

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Cross-Examination: First on the scene

Phoenix rubbed his chin in thought, "She is being kind of vague here, I wonder why. Trucy is usually to the point, unless it involves her magic act." He said, "I would like to begin my cross-examination if I may."

Robin said, "Hold it! Miss Wright, I'd like you to add what you saw on the scene to the record."

Trucy said, "Not on your life princess. I will only add it once my father asks me himself, that clear? You forget that I am his daughter and that grants me some sway in this court."

Juniper said, "It is alright Miss Newman, I already know Mr. Wright intends to question her at length, we shall hear what happened soon enough."

Robin sighed and said, "F-i-n-e, but he'd better ask the questions, or I'll take the answers myself from her and no magic will save her from my sting."

Phoenix swallowed hard and thought, "I'd best be careful how I press her, I know Trucy can sometimes go a little overboard."

Trucy began to repeat her testimony for the cross-examination phase.

"I had been searching for Athena for a couple of hours, ever since arriving back at the office to find my father, Apollo and Miss Fey asleep under the influence of sleeping pills."

Phoenix called out, "Hold it!" He rubbed his chin then asked, "How did you know we were asleep under the influence of medication. For all you knew we all decided to take a nap."

Trucy said, "Don't think I haven't studied your techniques in depth Daddy, I know them all by heart. Did you forget already that I was with Mr. Edgeworth when he heard it from Maya after her awakening from the slumber? Shame on you."

Phoenix stared her down and thought, "Shame on me? What in the..."

Trucy said, "I think I'll just ignore the fact you interrupted me there and continue on. I enlisted the aid of Simon Blackquill and his pet hawk Taka. He's such a sweet, kind bird."

Phoenix wanted to interrupt there, but he knew better than to press her on that statement. She'd likely just get angry with him for trying to demonize the bird. He let her continue.

"We heard a shot ring out in the crisp early morning. We started to go towards the direction of the shot we heard, then heard a second shot. We started to sprint at that point."

Phoenix called out, "Hold it! Why didn't you start running when you heard the first shot. Isn't that the standard response when you hear a gunshot?"

Trucy took her hat off her head and pulled a rabbit out then said, "Does a magician reveal the secrets of the trade to an amateur like you? Not a chance buster! Look the fact of the matter is, Simon and I weren't entirely sure where the shot was coming from. We headed in the general direction of the shot, it was only after the second shot that we were able to pinpoint it."

Phoenix thought, "Amateur? Really?" He said, "Maybe so, but you had Taka searching as well. Wouldn't that kind and sweet bird have been able to find Athena relatively fast?"

Trucy placed her hands in front of her chest and said, "Maybe so, but even Taka isn't that fast. He screeched above us and started to fly towards the park after the first shot. This is how I knew to go that direction, but even if we had reached the park before the second shot went off, it is still a big place Daddy. You forget that Athena can be very hard to find when she wants to be. If you don't believe me, why not just ask our honor up there, they were childhood friends right?"

Juniper said, "She was surprisingly elusive when she wanted to be alone. No matter how hard I looked, I couldn't find her. Maybe it's a curse or a blessing, who knows."

Trucy grinned and said, "Don't underestimate me just because I'm sixteen Daddy or I will outsmart you every time."

Phoenix winced and thought, "I never thought Trucy would be that tough on the stand."

Trucy smiled then said, "I think I'll continue now. What I saw when I entered the scene was surprising to say the least, but if you want more details you're going to have to ask specific questions."

Phoenix called out, "Hold it!" He had to think of the right question to ask her, "Let's start with Athena herself, what was she like when you saw her and what was she doing?"

Trucy wagged her finger and said, "One question at a time Daddy, you should know better by now. Maybe Mr. Edgeworth is right, you're as green as they come."

Phoenix stared at her in shock then asked, "Alright, what was she doing when you first saw her?"

Trucy smiled then stretched so that her magician's outfit went into better alignment with her body before she responded, "She wasn't doing anything when we arrived, well unless you count holding a gun in her left hand and standing over the body of the victim."

The people in the gallery began to speak amongst themselves in a frenzy.

Juniper slammed her gavel down and called, "Order in the court, please add that to your testimony."

Trucy said, "Sure thing." She repeated the statement to which her father almost immediately cried out, "Hold it!"

Phoenix asked, "Is there anything else about her you can tell us? What was she like at that moment?"

Trucy said, "She seemed to be in shock. She was barely breathing, her body was rigid and she looked frightened of the situation."

Phoenix then thought of something, "Trucy, what about the weather around you, was it windy for example?"

Trucy said, "No, the winds were dead still, almost like time had stopped. My cape didn't even blow slightly in the wind."

Phoenix asked, "Miss Newman, how long are you going to keep the Defense in the dark about something?"

Robin said, "In the dark? You are such a B-A-D boy!"

Phoenix said, "That's not what I meant and you KNOW it! I want the details on the murder weapon itself. Why hasn't it been presented as evidence yet?"

Robin said, "I figured I'd let your own daughter put the nail in your coffin Mr. Wright."

Phoenix gaped and said, "W-what?"

Trucy said, "I got the results from it right here. The gun in question without a doubt fired the bullet that landed in the tree as well as the one that killed Edgar Ora Chest. Here is the report."

Phoenix took a look then asked, "Miss Wright, are you certain you only heard two shots fired?"

Trucy smiled and said, "Seems like you have caught on already, yes I only heard two shots, yet the gun was fired four times."

Juniper blinked in surprise then exclaimed, "Wait four times? When were the other two shots fired?"

Robin said, "The police still haven't found any more bullets on the scene, perhaps Miss Cykes just decided to fire a couple more shots off for fun before Miss Wright arrived."

Phoenix called out, "Objection!" He pulled out the map of the park and said, "If that was the case, the bullets would be in the park somewhere. Let's say for argument sake that Miss Cykes actually did purchase the weapon before the incident. She would have had to be in the park right after that as her ID was found in the trash can on the scene. This means that she wouldn't have left the park."

Robin said, "Objection! There is no proof that she remained in the park at all."

Phoenix smiled and said, "Actually there is Miss Newman and I have it right here." He pulled out a list. He said, "I took the liberty of checking with the phone company about the GPS location of her phone. This phone was left on at all times, so why Trucy didn't bother to call it is a mystery to me, however be that as it may, the results will surprise you. Her phone entered the park at 2am and didn't leave until she was taken away by the Police. This means that Athena was without a doubt at the scene of the crime the entire time."

Robin wagged her finger and said, "You think she couldn't have just placed her phone on the bench? Notice how there are sparkly parts to her phone? Those things rub off on surfaces, especially wood. We found sparkly residue on the bench."

Phoenix gasped, "Wh-what?"

Robin smirked and said, "Such an obvious ploy for time, you really aren't as tough as they say Mr. Wright."

Phoenix growled in frustration then asked, "Trucy, I'd like you to tell me what happened when she was confronted by Simon and yourself."

Trucy smiled and said, "To be blunt Daddy, she was still in shock. She was actually shaking, at first I thought it might have been from the cold as she wasn't carrying her jacket, nor was she wearing a hat or anything to keep herself warm."

Phoenix blinked then said, "Wait a minute, she wasn't wearing a hat? That's odd, according to the video the woman there was wearing a hat, quite a large one at that."

Trucy said, "Obviously that wasn't Athena. The girl in the video wasn't even wearing Athena's trademark glove. She never takes that off as it is significant to her. It was made by her mother after all."

Phoenix thought for a moment then said, "You said there was no wind that day, correct?"

Trucy said, "That much I am certain of Daddy, why you think there's a problem with that?"

Phoenix said, "Actually, there is. There is a critical contradiction there." He pulled out the autopsy report and said, "According to the report, there were leaves in the victim's trench-coat. I have only one question, how did they get there? With no wind blowing, not a single leaf would fall in that park. Not to mention the fact all the leaves were raked up two days before the incident."

Trucy said, "True, but do you know if the victim didn't lay down in the leaves for a while before the incident? Without that, the leaves don't really make much of a difference."

Phoenix said, "Objection!" He turned to Athena and said, "You knew the victim from the past Miss Cykes, was there anything about leaves in his past?"

Athena said, "Actually, there was. The victim was afraid of heights and trees. Even when he visited my mother, he never went near the trees. I couldn't imagine him rolling around in leaves."

Phoenix said, "Thank you Miss Cykes. The victim was afraid of trees your honor, therefore it is inconceivable that he would roll around in leaves. May I remind the court that leaves actually come from trees in particular."

Trucy said, "Very good Daddy, maybe I should move onto part two of my testimony."

Phoenix gasped and thought, "She has more to say?"

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Testimony: Trucy's Investigation

"After Athena was taken away by the police, I noticed a number of peculiar situations going on on the scene."

"First of all, Miss Skye found the bullet at a fairly fast pace. It was almost like she knew right where to look."

"Next is the leaves themselves, there was a pile not too far away from the body that was disturbed, almost like something had been dragged through it."

"Finally there is the murder weapon's mysteries. How was it fired four times in such a short time? Why was there no one who reported hearing any other gunshots?"

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Cross-Examination: Trucy's Investigation

Phoenix thought about what his daughter was saying, what she said actually had some issues with it already. He knew that she wanted him to press her so he said, "I will begin the cross-examination."

Robin said, "Is that really necessary? These are after effects of the case, not involving Miss Cykes herself. At best they are conjecture."

Phoenix slammed his hand on the desk, causing Robin to jump. He said, "The defense asserts its right to cross-examine the statements. That is a right you cannot dispute."

Robin said, "Very well, but if nothing comes of it, I move that Miss Cykes is declared guilty on the spot. This has dragged on long enough as it stands. Do you accept those terms Mr. Wright?"

Phoenix thought for a moment then said, "Yes, I do."

Apollo hissed, "What are you doing Mr. Wright? If you don't find a contradiction here, Athena is done for!"

Phoenix said, "Oh there will be one here, I'm certain of that. Let's begin."

Trucy began to repeat her statements for the court, "After Athena was taken away by the police, I noticed a number of peculiar situations going on on the scene."

"First of all, Miss Skye found the bullet at a fairly fast pace. It was almost like she knew right where to look."

Phoenix called out, "Hold it!" He paused then said, "Miss Skye is a seasoned detective, isn't it natural she'd be able to find the bullet quickly?"

Trucy said, "Maybe, but they hadn't even found the footprints at this point. All they knew was the approximate location of Athena and the victim. With only that little amount of information, she found the bullet in less than five minutes."

Phoenix gasped, "F-Five minutes? But that's insane, especially in a large park."

Trucy said, "Precisely so, how did she find the bullet so fast?"

Phoenix said, "Wait a minute, she was wearing those green glasses right? I've seen those before as she showed them to me. Those glasses are specialized to locate metal. She developed those herself to locate bullets in large areas. With those on, it would be unlikely she would miss a stray bullet."

Trucy smiled then said, "You're catching on, good Daddy, Next is the leaves themselves, there was a pile not too far away from the body that was disturbed, almost like something had been dragged through it."

Phoenix called out, "Hold it!" He planned his next question carefully, "Upon investigating, did you figure out what was dragged through the leaves?"

Trucy said, "It was large, whatever it was. Perhaps it was a person's body, but the victim doesn't show any signs of having been dragged anywhere. Perhaps someone disturbed the leaves on purpose."

Phoenix began to think carefully about the situation on hand. He couldn't help but feel the leaves were very important. He knew he'd have to make note of that so he updated the map and said, "Please continue Miss Wright."

"Finally there is the murder weapon's mysteries. How was it fired four times in such a short time? Why was there no one who reported hearing any other gunshots?"

Phoenix then realized something that he had said earlier which directly contradicted the facts that Trucy had just pointed out. He called out, "OBJECTION!" He pointed his finger at Trucy and said, "The gun was fired four times, yet Miss Skye somehow missed two other bullets, despite having those glasses on. She found one bullet extremely fast, so she should have found two other bullets in a relatively fast period of time, yet she didn't find any at all."

Robin said, "So, maybe she just over-looked them. It happens sometimes in an investigation area as large as a park."

Phoenix said, "I think not, recall that Miss Skye is a seasoned detective. Even at Trucy's age, she was already talented. She helped me solve the SL-9 incident, a case which was solved under shaky grounds when Ema was only fourteen. Now if Miss Skye was sixteen still, there would be a good chance of overlooking it, but with her years of experience it is highly unlikely. With those glasses as well, I'd say close to impossible. The defense wishes to call Miss Skye to the stand."

Robin said, "So it has come to calling the other detective on the scene to the stand has it Mr. Wright?"

Phoenix said, "You have a problem with that?"

Robin said, "You have only found a small inconsistency and no true contradictions yet. Why should we indulge your fantasies any further?"

Phoenix said, "My goal is the truth of this matter. Those extra two bullets concern me and I want to know where they went. They could very well be key to solving this case."

Robin said, "Well we don't need her to take the stand, I already have her statements regarding the missing two bullets right here."

Phoenix thought, "She laid a trap for me? This young woman? Impressive..."

Robin pulled out the document and said, "No other bullets were found on the scene, however gunpowder residue was found on a pile of leaves that had been disturbed by something near the victim."

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Extension Push

Phoenix rubbed his chin and then began to think hard. He had to turn his assumptions of the case upside down here. He began to think about the case in detail, "Okay so we have Athena who apparently fired a gun. No gunpowder residue was found on her person, however she was holding the gun. She picked up the gun in shock, that is what she said, so if I believe her, then it means that the two gunshots there were fired by someone else. Yet there is still two missing bullets and swelling around the bullet wound. This is disregarding the disrupted leaves with the gunpowder residue on them."

Robin said, "Are you done thinking Mr. Wright? Can we proceed to a verdict yet? It is clear that she is the guilty party, after all she harbored a deep resentment of him. That seems like a strong enough motive for murder to me, not to mention she was found holding a gun."

Phoenix said, "Before we proceed to a verdict, I assert that there are some unanswered questions that must be resolved."

Robin asked, "Such as?"

Phoenix tapped one of the documents and said, "First of all there is the fact that only two shots were fired, yet four shots were fired from the time it was purchased. This is a conundrum that must be resolved. Also why was no bullet found in those leaves and what disturbed them. Why was there gunpowder residue on the leaves with not reasonable explanation. There is also the fact that it appeared to not be Miss Cykes who purchased the gun, yet had her ID card and documentation. Finally there is the swelling around the bullet wound itself. Why is that there? A bullet wound should not cause that kind of reaction."

Robin wagged her finger, "Is it not possible the victim was allergic to the type of metal used in bullets?"

Phoenix said, "Perhaps, but I doubt the examiners would have missed a symptom such as that. It'd be listed on the Autopsy report."

Robin sighed and said, "You are determined to get more time, maybe to pull the same stunt you did with that diary page."

Phoenix glared and said, "That has been dealt with a long time ago. It was proven in court to be a set-up."

Robin said, "I might be alright with granting you an extra afternoon to discover the truth, however I'd need someone to keep an eye on your team. Despite the situation, I know that Miss Cykes' honor in court is unprecedented."

Apollo asked, "Then why are you pursuing her so adamantly?"

Robin said, "Because it's my j-o-b! If you want the extra day, that is fine, but Apollo Justice shall remain with Miss Cykes in detention!"

Phoenix asked, "Why Apollo?"

Robin smirked and said, "Because I want to see just what you will do without your star understudy beside you. Besides there can be some assurances that way. Miss Woods, explain if you would."

Juniper sighed and said, "Ever since the close of the Dark Age of the Law, the court system has been far stricter on extensions of trials. A new rule has been implemented that Defense attorneys and prosecuting attorneys must submit all new evidence before 6 in the evening. If it does not arrive there, the evidence will not be counted in court."

Phoenix said, "Six huh? Okay, but why Apollo in detention?"

Robin said, "Don't you get it yet Mr. Wright? I don't trust Apollo. He is close with Miss Cykes. He met her when she was young, and on top of that he is a new lawyer alongside her in your office. If he is in detention, that gives you more determination to get legitimate evidence."

Apollo said, "I'll do it."

Phoenix gaped and asked, "Wh-what? Apollo?"

Apollo said, "This way, I'll be able to be there for Athena while you search for evidence Mr. Wright. Besides, I've never really seen the detention center from the other side of the glass. I really don't mind at all, if that will make Miss Newman more comfortable with an extension, so be it."

Phoenix said, "Is this really legal? He hasn't done anything wrong."

Juniper said, "It wasn't actually our idea. It was Chief Prosecutor Edgeworth's idea."

Phoenix thought, "I'll have to have a chat with Edgeworth about this later." He said, "Did he say why?"

Juniper said, "Ironically, he said the same reason that Apollo just stated. He wanted someone there for Athena on the inside."

Robin smiled and said, "Besides, if I find out you've falsified evidence, I will have Mr. Justice's badge revoked. I'd give it to Juniper as a gift, she always wanted one of those badges."

Apollo asked, "Now I'd understand Mr. Wright's if he did that, but why mine?"

Robin laughed and said, "Surely you didn't forget already Mr. Justice. Guess you are already becoming an old man. You are the lead defense attorney on this case, therefore it is your responsibility. Do you understand yet Mr. Wright? If you do not follow procedure, Mr. Justice will be finished in law forever."

Phoenix said, "I won't fail to follow procedure, we worked hard to end the Dark Age of the Law, and I won't let it come back anytime soon."

Juniper said, "Bailiff, take Miss Cykes and Mr. Justice to the detention center, ensure they remain together while Mr. Wright and Miss Newman investigate together."

Robin paled and said, "T-Together? Why?"

Juniper smiled and said, "New policy, if a trial goes past the first day, the lead Prosecuting Attorney and lead Defense Attorney examine every angle of the case together. Try not to flirt too much you two." She banged her gavel and closed the proceedings then left the court room trying hard not to laugh at Robin's shocked face.

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Phoenix blinked and looked at Miss Newman then said, "Guess we're partners for the day."

Robin stared at him then said, "Fine by me, at least this way I can keep an e-y-e on you!" She held out her hand and Phoenix shook it.

Trucy got off the witness stand and said, "Where are we starting the investigation?"

Phoenix said, "First, I want to question the other two witnesses."

Robin said, "Oh you know about them do you?"

Phoenix said, "Trucy informed me about them. There were two other people on the other side of the incident. I want to know who they are, and what they saw. Perhaps a different angle will grant us some perspective."

Robin frowned then said, "I still can't believe that Juniper thought we'd start flirting."

Phoenix smiled and said, "That's just her way, I've dealt with her a few times in the past. She's a sweet girl, but she seems to enjoy making you sweat a bit Robin."

Robin said, "Well she has been like that to me ever since she found out I was a girl."

Phoenix said, "Is that so? Well let's be off, I want to do some questioning and I also want to examine those leaves in more detail. Robin, I have one question, do you think Athena committed this crime?"

Robin said, "Not a chance she did it. As I said before, I will pursue her with all that I have, but that's because it is my job as prosecutor on the case. Believe me, if I had any say in it, I'd just drop this case like a bad habit."

Trucy said, "If you truly think that, then help us find the truth and submit the evidence properly by six."

She said, "You got it, I hope we do find something that can prove her innocence, I'd rather not send Athena to her death."

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Athena sat down in a chair in the detention center and asked, "Apollo, you agreed fairly quickly to join me in here, any reason why?"

Apollo said, "You're my partner, why else Athena? I know you didn't do this, but you're still hiding something from us aren't you?"

Athena said, "My ID was stolen yesterday, what I didn't tell you was that my place was broken into the day before yesterday. I didn't see anything missing so I didn't report it."

Apollo gasped and said, "That could be critical, they may have obtained your ID then along with those papers.

Athena said, "Yes, but nothing else was disturbed. If they wanted those papers, they must have known exactly where to look, that is what scares me the most. It means it is someone that knows me."

Apollo asked, "What are you trying to imply here?"

Athena said, "Someone who knew me back when I was at the space center is involved with this, there is no question there. The real question is, who is it?"

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Thus ends Episode Two, I hope you all enjoyed. I hope the trial was okay, I tried to make it interesting, but it ended up just being a hashing of the facts. Rest assured, the case will likely be solved on the second trial date. Who is the mysterious woman who purchased the gun? What is the secret behind those leaves and most importantly how did the victim truly die? Find out in the next two episodes.