Phoenix Wright: Tides of Fate

by TaintedWisdom2014

New cases, set after Dual Destinies in the PW Timeline. Warning Spoilers within for those who have not played Phoenix Wright: Dual Destinies (spoilers for most of the games are in here actually come to think of it). The first case is set one week after the final case of Dual Destinies, however is that case truly over? All cases thoroughly planned in advance (with Episode System)

4. Serenade Turnabout: Resolution

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.

Let's continue where we left off, and what a situation they are in at this point. Athena's long lost twin sister Artemis has finally been revealed. On top of that, it turns out she is involved in the murder, in some way or another, but was under duress of her actions. That said, she claims to not be the murderer in the case. What will happen to the twins' father? What is the real "truth" of the incident and will they catch the real person responsible? Read on to find out.

As a side note, this chapter is the final chapter in the "Serenade Turnabout" and will resolve the entire case fully. This will also contain the new Cross-Examination style that was presented in the Ace Attorney Anime. That said, after this chapter is uploaded, it will be up to you, the readers, to vote on which style you enjoy more. There is the "game style" from chapter two and the "anime style" from this chapter. Depending on which style gets more votes, that style will be used in the rest of the cases for this story.

This is to give you the readers a more interactive experience with this story's development. It is merely a gift from me to you the fans of Phoenix Wright. It may be a modest gift, but it is the least I can do for this wonderful series and is done in honor of all the fans as well as the new anime that is being created.

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First Turnabout: Serenade Turnabout

Episode Four: Resolution

Phoenix stretched in the clinic bed. He looked to his left and saw that Trucy was asleep in the bed nearby. He had requested to be near his daughter while recovering. He whispered, "Don't worry Trucy, Athena will be fine. I will get better by tomorrow morning to help her."

Trucy yawned and opened her eyes and whispered, "Daddy, it is two in the morning, you should be resting."

Phoenix laughed and said, "You always did act more like a parent at points than I did."

Trucy grinned and said, "Someone had to be right?"

Phoenix shook his head and thought, "What a daughter I have raised. She's cheeky and yet I still adore her to pieces." He looked to his right and saw that Maya was asleep near him as well. Apparently the nurses had given up on trying to get her to leave. He smiled at the memory of Maya glaring at them as if daring them to forcibly remove her from the premises. When they had tried, she merely called Edgeworth who spoke to the officers. He told them in no uncertain terms was Maya Fey to leave that hospital without being picked up by himself and that he'd be there in the morning to pick up the Wright family and Miss Fey. They eventually had to concede the fact and let her stay there.

A nurse walked in and saw that Phoenix was awake and whispered, "Mr. Wright, is something wrong? You still aren't asleep."

Phoenix said, "I was wondering if you could bring me my phone, I need to make a call to someone."

The nurse nodded and went to the front of the room and picked up the phone. She handed it to him and sat down next to him.

Phoenix looked at her then gasped, "Wait a minute, IRIS? What are you doing here?"

Iris laughed and said, "Didn't you know that I left the mountain after I got out of prison for falsifying the crime scene eight years ago? I took some courses in medical care and joined this clinic. I knew that one day you'd need me here Feenie."

Phoenix chuckled and said, "You always did care about me, I'm sorry you and I didn't work out."

Iris waved off the statement and said, "It was under false pretenses. I wanted to tell you the truth early into the relationship. At first, I was just trying to get back that locket, but I actually fell for you."

Phoenix sighed and said, "Yes your sister really did cause a lot of trouble. I wonder why she turned out so cruel?"

Iris said, "Who knows, weren't you going to make a call?" She went over to Maya and covered the girl with a blanket and said, "I was thinking of going to the Anything Agency so that you'd have a secretary on hand. I learned a lot in my years at college after all."

Phoenix smiled and said, "I'd like that Iris." He held up the phone and dialed a number.

A male voice answered, "Yeah? What is it Phoenix?"

Phoenix asked, "How are things over there Apollo? Did Mia find anything out?"

Apollo said, "A lot more than you'd think possible. For starters, Athena has a twin sister and we just met her today. For second, their father is being held captive by the true murderer of the case. Athena is asleep right now, but she was crying until about half an hour ago. Go figure, I had to actually sedate her to get her to sleep."

Phoenix gasped, "You used the same sleeping pills she used on us?"

Apollo said, "Something like that, I got permission from Edgeworth before I did it, don't worry about that."

Phoenix then thought for a moment before he asked, "Twin sister huh? Is she the one on the video?"

Apollo said, "That's right, she didn't even know that her sister was back in the country, not until the UR-1 incident was solved by us all. Then this whole mess started. I've been up racking my brains for a solution to this case, but I'm drawing up blank. A strange rubber cork was found at the office you were about to investigate and there was dried blood on it, but the results of the testing has not come in yet."

Phoenix said, "So that's it, I think I know what that cork was used for. I will be in court with you tomorrow Apollo."

Apollo asked, "Are you sure Phoenix? You were just shot."

Phoenix said, "I feel just fine, besides the bullet has been removed and it's ten caliber just like the one that was taken out of Trucy. I can say for certain that the chances of it being someone else who shot my daughter to be very slim indeed."

Apollo whispered, "How is Trucy doing by the way?"

Phoenix said, "She's fine and just as cheeky as ever."

Apollo laughed and asked, "When are you two getting out of there?"

Phoenix said, "Tomorrow around nine am. We will be at the courthouse by ten. Maya is coming with us. She refused to leave, to the point of calling Edgeworth to get him to give her special permission to remain with us. Oh and you will never believe who is my nurse."

Apollo said, "Iris Hawthorne correct?"

Phoenix was stunned for a moment then asked, "How did you-"

Apollo answered, "Simple, Robin gave me the rundown of what was going on over there. Apparently she was almost as surprised as you are. She called my number to check on how the case is progressing. Apparently the Hawthorne family knew the Cykes family when Athena was still young. I should say that Dahlia's father knew Metis Cykes."

Phoenix held the phone closer and whispered, "They aren't related are they?"

Apollo said, "Oh good lord no! Mr. Hawthorne was just a friend of Metis, that's all it was. He also invested a decent amount of money into her research. That is part of why he could only afford to look after Dahlia."

Phoenix sighed and said, "I see, well it was certainly a surprise to see her again. Not unpleasant though."

Iris cleared her throat and said, "You know I am right here Feenie."

Phoenix flushed then said, "I know Iris, I know."

Iris took the phone and asked, "Mr. Justice, how are the Cykes twins holding up?"

Apollo said, "Well Athena was in an emotional state after meeting her twin sister for the first time. The two of them talked for hours after Simon left the detention center. Eventually Artemis fell asleep near Pearl in the front room and Athena just sat there at the glass looking at her twin. She was crying watching her sleep until I finally gave her some coffee laced with sleeping pills. I couldn't stand seeing her so upset and figured the least I could do was let her get some sleep."

Iris said, "Wise, how many did you put in?"

Apollo said, "Just one, these things are potent after all."

Iris smiled and said ,"Sounds like you know a bit about medicine Mr. Justice."

Apollo said, "I did some research into the pills after a previous incident involving an Orca whale came up."

Iris said, "Now I will have to end this call, my patient needs to get some rest, even if he doesn't want to."

Apollo laughed and said, "That's Mr. Wright for you. He is stubborn as a mule when it comes to things like that, are you coming with them to the court tomorrow?"

Iris said, "Yes I am. Seeing as he refuses to stay one extra day, I am going with him to make sure his wound does not open again."

Apollo said, "Very well, I will see you tomorrow, goodnight Miss Hawthorne." He hung up the phone and looked at the sleeping Athena beside him. He took off his jacket and placed it over her shoulders. He smiled and whispered, "Sleep tight Athena, I swear you will be just fine by the time I am done with this case."

Iris (back at the clinic) took the phone away and placed it in toe tray after plugging it in to charge. She walked over and gently pushed Phoenix onto his back and stared into his eyes, "Now get some sleep Feenie, I will not take no for an answer." She stared at him intently.

Phoenix smiled and said, "You always did like to take charge Iris."

Iris whispered, "I still did miss you Feenie, I do even to this day."

Phoenix sighed and said, "I know Iris, but I don't know."

Iris said, "I know Feenie, I know, but these things have a way of working themselves out." She covered him up so that just his head was out of the covers and kissed him on the forehead once then stepped out of the room to let him sleep.

Phoenix touched his forehead and smiled. He closed his eyes and went to sleep.

Trucy had watched the exchange and grinned before she snuggled into her blankets to get some rest as well.

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The next morning dawned with birds chirping outside cheerfully. It was a crisp winter morning and the air was very clear. When Phoenix, Trucy and Maya set foot outside the clinic, they were blasted with cold air.

Maya started shivering almost immediately. She cried out, "Why are mornings always so cold?"

Trucy grinned and said, "What's the matter? I thought you stood under freezing waterfalls most of the time?"

Maya pouted and said, "Yes, but that's different. One mentally prepares herself for that long beforehand. If not, well who knows what could happen."

Iris set foot outside and slipped a nice warm jacket around Maya's shoulders and said, "I figured you'd be cold Maya, so I brought this jacket for you. It's one of my personal ones."

Maya flushed slightly and said, "Thanks Iris. You've been so good to Nick and I since we arrived."

Iris smiled and said, "I couldn't let Mystic Maya and Feenie freeze out here."

Maya said, "You know I am capable of taking care of myself Iris."

Iris gently rubbed Maya's head softly and said ,"I know, but having a helping hand can't hurt right?"

Maya sighed happily at the comforting touch and said, "Yeah, I suppose you're right."

Phoenix said, "You two done flirting back there?"

The two girls jumped and glared at him. They started to laugh when they saw he was trying hard not to laugh at his own joke.

Soon the four of them were laughing as Edgeworth pulled up with his car. He stepped out and asked, "Something funny about my car or something?"

Phoenix shook his head and said, "No Edgeworth, it's an inside family joke." He smiled and said, "Thanks for coming to get us."

Edgeworth said, "Anytime, now everyone get in. Miss Wright, you get in the front next to me, then you three will be in the back with Wright in the middle."

Iris grinned and said, "Fine by me!" She got into the car first with Phoenix getting in next to her. Maya got in on the other side of Phoenix and Trucy got into the front.

Trucy called back, "You three had better behave yourselves."

Phoenix flushed and said, "I think we are perfectly capable of behaving ourselves in a car ride Trucy."

Trucy grinned and said, "Whatever you say Daddy." She looked forward as Edgeworth got into the car.

Phoenix blinked as Iris closed her eyes for a short nap and rested her head on his left shoulder. Maya was doing the same thing on his right. He looked from one to the other and thought, "They were this tired?"

Trucy whispered, "Iris was up all night watching over you and Maya. As for Maya herself, she woke up half an hour after you went to sleep and didn't sleep at all the rest of the night. I think they were talking throughout the night."

Phoenix thought, "I wonder what those two talked about all night."

Edgeworth said, "Enough with the chit chat, let's let the two girls sleep in the back. We have a court case to get to." He turned on the car and drove off towards the court house.

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Meanwhile at the court house...

Apollo rubbed his eyes as he was still a bit tired. He hadn't gotten a wink of sleep and yawned. He was then surprised when a cup of coffee was handed to him. He looked up and saw that Artemis was the one handing it to him.

She sat down next to him and whispered, "Thank you for everything you're doing for us Apollo."

Apollo said, "I couldn't just leave you two alone, not when Athena is on trial for murder and if I left it alone you'd be found guilty of falsifying evidence."

Artemis said, "But I did falsify evidence Apollo."

Apollo said, "Yes you did, under duress. So long as you didn't actually kill anyone under duress, you won't be convicted of the crime of falsification."

Artemis smiled and said, "I can see why my sister likes you so much."

Apollo blinked and asked, "Likes me? What do you mean?"

Artemis grinned and said, "Oh nothing much, here comes our sleepy defendant now."

Athena yawned as she walked up. She wiped sleep from her eyes and saw Artemis sitting next to Apollo. She glared for a moment then sat on the other side of Apollo and asked, "What did she tell you?"

Apollo said, "Nothing much Athena, why so defensive?"

Athena said, "No reason, just overly tired I guess. Did you slip me sleeping pills Apollo?"

Apollo said, "You could say that. You weren't sleeping Athena and were crying over there."

Athena sighed and said, "Normally, I'd be furious at you, but I guess I had it coming after putting you to sleep like that. Guess we are even now."

Apollo smiled and said, "Yeah, well we are only even once I solve this case."

Artemis said, "I'm sure you will find a way to do it."

A voice spoke out, "And I will be here to help you."

Apollo looked up and saw Phoenix was standing there with Maya and Trucy. He stood up and hugged Trucy, then Maya and finally looked Phoenix in the eye. He punched him lightly in the shoulder where he had been shot.

Phoenix winced in pain and asked, "What was that for?"

Apollo said, "For worrying us you big idiot! Athena was crying for hours, blaming herself for you getting shot! Why don't you ever think before you jump into situations?"

Phoenix rubbed the back of his head awkwardly and said, "Sorry Athena and Apollo, guess I didn't think about the danger."

Athena glared at him and said, "Don't ever do that again! You said you thought of Apollo and I like your kids right? Start acting like a parental figure already."

Phoenix chuckled then hugged Athena to him and said, "Sorry Athena, I'll be more careful from now on."

A tear slid down Athena's cheek and she whispered, "Good, I already lost my mother. I don't want to lose you as well Boss. You've been like a father to me since we met. You encouraged me the last step I needed to pass the bar exam which led to Simon's acquittal and discovering my mother's true killer."

Phoenix sighed and rubbed her back for a moment then turned to see Artemis standing there awkwardly. He went over to her and said, "So you are Artemis huh? You really are her twin aren't you. I wish I had met you earlier."

Artemis said, "I'm sorry, had I come to tell you what was going on in the first place, the case could have been solved yesterday and perhaps you and Trucy wouldn't have gotten shot."

Phoenix said, "Don't worry, this will be over today."

Iris walked up to Athena and moved her over to the couch. She made her sit down and started doing a physical on her. She sighed in relief when it was done and said, "Well the medicine Apollo slipped you had no adverse effects. You will be a little bit groggy for another fifteen or so minutes, but it should clear up by the start of the trial."

Apollo rubbed the back of his head and said, "I take it you are Iris Hawthorne."

Iris said, "I don't go by that last name anymore, not since my sisters were sent down the River Styx."

Phoenix smiled and said, "Just like you as well Iris."

The bailiff said, "Excuse me Mr. Wright and Mr. Justice. Court is about to begin, would you and your witnesses as well as the defendant please enter the courtroom."

Iris said, "As a representative of the clinic, I will be accompanying Mr. Wright to the defense bench. He was injured yesterday afternoon and I am required to stay by his side while he is on duty."

The bailiff took a look at her ID card then said, "Very well Iris Fey, this way please."

Maya looked at her and whispered, "Fey?"

Iris said, "You didn't know? Dahlia and I were the daughters of Morgan Fey, which makes us half sisters to Pearl Fey. I took her last name to distance myself from the Hawthorne name."

Apollo asked, "Why didn't you say so yesterday?"

Iris answered, "I was more focused on Trucy and Feenie's recovery that I didn't feel it prudent to mention it. Now that they are on their feet, it was the right time Mr. Justice."

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The group entered into the courtroom and Athena went to the defendant's chair. She sat down and watched as Phoenix and Apollo took their place at the Defense bench. The prosecution side was surprisingly empty.

Phoenix asked, "Miss Woods, where is Miss Newman?"

Juniper said, "Miss Newman put in a change of prosecutor order after reviewing the evidence. I have since called in a new prosecuting attorney to replace her."

Phoenix thought, "I wonder who is coming against us."

The door opened and Apollo gasped as he saw someone he knew all too well walking towards them. He took the bench and said, "It's been a while Heir Forehead."

Apollo cried out, "Gavin? You're taking on this case?"

Gavin smiled and said, "But of course, I want to get to the bottom of this case more than anyone. You see, I knew Edgar back in his college days. Miss Woods, may I give the opening statement?"

Juniper nodded and said, "By all means, court is now in session for the trial of Athena Cykes."

Gavin tapped the desk in front of him and said, "Members of this court, I intend to find the truth of this matter. I trust Mr. Justice implicitly to find the truth alongside me. Let's begin, shall we Mr. Justice? The prosecution is ready."

Apollo called out, "The Defense is ready as well, let's get this started."

Gavin pulled out a document and looked at it. He read the report, "So far we have the following facts of this case. At five am, two gunshots were heard at the park, which was deemed the scene of the crime. The victim, one Edgar Ora Chest was found dead at the scene with the defendant holding a gun over the deceased. In yesterday's trial, some leaves had gunpowder burn on them and the gun had been fired four times, both of these situations were contradictions of the facts in the case. The prosecution intends to prove what were the causes of these phenomena and establish the defendant's guilt once and for all."

Juniper nodded and said, "You may call your first witness Mr. Gavin."

Gavin said, "I call Detective Ema Skye to the stand."

The onlookers immediately started buzzing and whispering among themselves.

Juniper tapped her gavel on her desk and called out, "Order in the court! There is no reason for whispering when a witness is called. Miss Skye, if you would please take the stand."

Ema walked past Phoenix then stopped at the defense desk. She smiled at Apollo and whispered, "Nice to see you again Apollo, looking handsome as ever." She grinned and walked past him and took her place at the witness stand.

Phoenix whispered, "What was that about?"

Apollo shrugged and answered, "You got me there Mr. Wright."

Ema said, "Name's Ema Skye, lead Detective on this case after Detective Gumshoe took over reviewing the evidence back at the precinct."

Juniper nodded and said, "So it is written, now on with the testimony."

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Testimony: Ema's Discovery at the Scene

"It was a mystery to be certain when I set foot on the crime scene yesterday early afternoon. I had heard about the extra two bullets, so I had to investigate further."

"It was then that I noticed the leaves and examined them more closely using a special method. I found a bullet buried among the leaves and knew I had found one of the two missing bullets."

"At that point, Mr. Wright, Miss Newman and Miss Fey showed up and together we located a forth bullet. Its position was so shocking I nearly dropped the bag with the third bullet inside."

Juniper had her eyes closed as she listened to the testimony and asked, "Where was this forth bullet?"

Ema smiled and said, "It was buried in a sign which read yield. It is located behind where the defendant stood."

The audience began to cry out in confusion until Juniper banged her gavel onto her desk until there was silence.

Juniper said, "The Defense may begin its cross-examination."

Apollo said, "Gladly your honor." He stepped out from behind the defense bench and walked up to where the evidence lay on a nearby table. They were all marked with letters which showed which "exhibit" they belonged to. He put on a pair of gloves and picked up the forth bullet and asked, "Miss Skye, first I'd like to say I like how you did your hair today."

Ema ran her fingers through her hair and said, "How kind of you to notice I used a new conditioner this morning."

Apollo asked, "I'd like you to theorize with me if you would. How is it possible that a forth bullet was found behind the victim? We should consider the facts of this case as we know them so far. Miss Cykes was holding the gun and fired twice. The defendant has stated on record that she heard a third shot go off as she was entering the park. If this is true, we can assume the third bullet found was the one in the tree or the one in the leaves."

Ema's hand went to her hair which was tied in a ponytail and she ran her fingers along the length of the tail and said, "Well assuming the third shot went into the leaves or the tree, it would mean that the first shot fired would have gone into the other location and the second shot went into the heart of the victim."

Apollo called out, "Objection! If that is the case, when was the forth shot fired? The one that entered the yield sign to be more specific."

Ema answered, "To be honest, the police are still looking into that. At this time, we do not know how that bullet got there."

Apollo said, "Really now? Someone as intelligent as you are cannot figure it out? Well why don't I spell it out for you in such a way that even a child could understand."

Ema flushed and said, "I am NOT a child Apollo, you know that!"

Apollo apologized, "You're right, that was uncalled for. That said, I already have a theory behind this bullet. Miss Cykes heard a gunshot go off as she was entering the park. This shot was the one that entered the tree. When she arrived, she entered into a heated argument with the man before her. This man was not in fact Edgar Ora Chest."

The audience began to talk among themselves in surprise.

Juniper banged the gavel and called out, "Order in the court! Continue Mr. Justice."

Apollo smiled and said, "Thanks Junie, oh and I love the sunflower on the robe today, it looks very much like it came from your garden at home."

Juniper felt a blush come to her cheeks and said, "Why yes it did, thank you Mr. Justice. It is good to know that the little details never escape your detection skills."

Phoenix was sweating at the bench and thought, "Since when did you start playing the court Apollo?"

Apollo cleared his throat and said, "As I don't want to keep a pretty young lady in a courtroom longer than necessary, I will explain as briefly as possible. This is how the Defense believes the events of that morning went down."

He paused then began his explanation, "First, the victim arrived at his final location. He was shot dead then and there at the location. Very shortly after this, Miss Cykes entered the park where the killer fired a bullet into the tree to set up the stage for the false crime scene. When she arrived, the killer had taken Mr. Ora Chest's place in the park and after arguing with her for several minutes, he pulled out the gun. He fired one shot at Miss Cykes, missing on purpose. This bullet struck the Yield sign. He probably intended for it to go further so it would not be found easily. When he saw she had hidden herself, he fired a second shot into the leaves and placed the body into position then fled the scene. This solves the contradictions of the bullets at the scene as well as the gunpowder burn on the leaves. He would have been standing really close to the leaves when he fired, so naturally being so close the burn would be present."

Gavin called out, "Objection!" He walked out from behind the prosecution desk and said, "A good work of fiction Heir Forehead, however it doesn't account for one detail which eludes your mental capacities."

Apollo said, "Oh? Do tell Prosecutor Gavin."

Gavin said, "Gladly, you see the blood under the victim in the photograph? A photograph which was taken by a member of the defense team might I add."

Apollo said, "Yes I see it, what of it?"

Gavin asked, "How did the blood puddle get there if the victim was killed in another place?"

Apollo smiled and said, "Well that would be answered by..." He gasped and placed a finger to his forehead to think. He said, "At this point, the defense does not know the answer to that question, however I do believe that it will be answered by more testimony. Your honor, might I call my own Witness to the stand? I believe she may have the answers we seek."

Juniper said, "Is your witness already prepped and ready?"

Apollo said, "Of course, she is right here in the courtroom. In fact she is sitting behind the defense bench right now."

Juniper said, "By all means, call her to the stand then."

Phoenix thought, "Here it comes, Apollo's going to call Artemis to the stand."

Apollo called out, "I summon Iris Fey to the stand!"

Phoenix gasped and thought, "Iris? Why in the world is he calling her to the stand." He called out, "Objection! Miss Fey was not present at the crime scene, why call her?"

Apollo said, "I have my reasons Mr. Wright. Besides, she is a registered nurse. I believe her testimony may be vital to uncovering the truth of this incident."

Juniper asked, "Do you have any further objections Mr. Wright?"

Phoenix stared at Apollo then said, "Objection withdrawn."

Juniper said, "Miss Fey, please take the stand."

Ema walked past Apollo and whispered, "Thanks for the compliment, but next time don't call me a child Apollo."

Apollo laughed and said, "Sorry Ema, I'll mind how I say things okay?"

Ema smiled and said, "Good, now have fun with the next witness."

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Testimony: Iris' Blood Pool Theory

Iris stood at the stand. She hadn't been at the witness stand in a little over eight years. She was a bit nervous about being up there, but she put on a brave face.

Apollo said, "I'd like you to testify to the court possible means of faking a blood pool under a deceased body. As a registered nurse, you have dealt with gunshot wounds as well as stab wounds on a regular basis have you not?"

Iris nodded and said, "Yes I have, I am no expert by any means though. Still I can offer my insight into the matter. Anything to help the situation resolve itself."

Apollo smiled and said, "Thank you Miss Fey, please go ahead."

Juniper called out, "Hold it, I have a question. Fey? Are you by any chance related to Maya and Pearl Fey? They have been involved in court cases plenty of times in the past."

Iris smiled and said, "Actually, I am Pearl's half sister."

Pearl stared at her in surprise and cried out, "Why haven't I heard about this?"

Iris answered, "You should ask Mystic Maya about that one Pearl. Needless to say, it was her decision to shield you from that truth for all these years. After this is over though, I'd love to have the chance to be your older sister if you'd have me."

Pearl grinned and said, "If you're a nice person then of course I would!"

Juniper tapped her gavel and said, "If you two are finished, your testimony if you please."

Iris said, "Gladly your honor."

"A blood pool under a victim's body generally happens from a fatal wound, or a non fatal wound left untreated. Should enough blood be lost, the victim will surely perish. This happens in cases where the victim dies from blood loss."

"That said, when a knife or other such blade enters the human body, it acts almost as a cork would, so long as the blade remains in place. Very little blood is actually shed at the scene of the crime. The blood is released when the blade is removed from the body."

"As for bullets, normally the blood starts to come out immediately. If one were to plug up the bullet wound before too much blood came out, then the blood loss would stop. This could enable the victim to be placed in a different location where if the plug were to be removed, the blood loss would start again."

"Upon reading up on this case, I noticed there was a bloodstain on the victim's shirt that had an irregular pattern. It was almost as though the victim were standing up and the blood had started to go into the shirt when the wound was prevented from releasing the blood. If a man were to be shot in such a manner and the wound were plugged up, the victim would generally fall onto his front."

Juniper tapped her gavel and said, "Thank you Miss Fey. Your cross-examination Mr. Justice."

Apollo smiled and said, "Of course Junie, I hope you are having a lovely day so far."

Juniper flushed and said, "Just get on with it Apollo!"

Apollo laughed and said, "Alright already, did I touch a nerve?"

Juniper glared and said, "Just get going already!"

Apollo walked up to Iris and asked, "Now, you said the gunshot wound could be plugged up, anything that you know of that could prevent the blood from escaping?"

Iris said, "You'd need something made of either metal or rubber. Those standard corks for wine and other such bottles of alcohol wouldn't cut it. Blood would seep through those after a short while."

Apollo said, "Rubber huh? Is that the most common type of cork besides the ones used for wine bottles?"

Iris said, "As far as I am aware, yes. That said, I don't drink very often and I don't need corks much, so I wouldn't know for certain."

Gavin called out, "Objection, what does this have to do with anything? For all we know the defendant could have fired a shot into the sign as she was entering the park and have just been lying to us the entire time."

Apollo said, "Objection! That is an impossibility. Note that Miss Cykes did not see any bullets in the Yield sign as she entered."

Gavin answered, "Objection! She could still be lying! What if she is Heir Forehead?"

Apollo said, "I would like to submit proof that there was no bullet in the yield sign when Miss Cykes entered the park." He placed a photograph on Juniper's desk.

She picked it up and looked at it. The time stamp said, "02:58" and it had a picture of the entrance of the park. Athena was in the picture heading towards the east, which would be towards the scene of the crime. The yield sign was in view and there was no indent or anything strange about the photograph. She asked, "I see nothing strange about this piece of evidence Apollo. Why show me this?"

Apollo nodded and answered, "That is precisely why it is conclusive your honor. The fact that there is nothing out of place in this photo is precisely the clue we are looking for. If the defendant were lying, wouldn't there be a bullet in the yield sign at this point?"

Juniper said, "She is almost out of range of the camera in this photograph."

Gavin said, "Objection, she could have fired the gun right after this moment."

Apollo called out, "Objection! If that were the case, Miss Wright would have heard it. Don't forget that she started looking for Miss Cykes around two in the morning. She was traveling around the area on foot. If Miss Cykes had fired the gun at that point, the sound would have traveled a long distance away due to it being winter right now. It would have most certainly been heard by Miss Wright and she would have headed towards the park to investigate."

Gavin grimaced and said, "Are you truly suggesting that Miss Cykes did not have the gun on her person?"

Apollo said, "That's precisely what I am saying, and that is why this line of questioning about the cork is so important."

Juniper tapped her gavel on the stand and said, "I will state the opinion of this court on this matter. While the focus here is on the murder of Mr. Ora Chest, I cannot ignore a possible lead regarding the defendant's behavior that day. Also there is the strange marks around the victim's entry wound of the bullet which looks like the skin was stretched slightly then pulled outward. I will allow the line of questioning to continue. However, if this turns out to be a waste of time, I will declare my verdict on the spot, is that agreed Mr. Justice?"

Apollo nodded and said, "The defense agrees to the terms of this line of questioning. I believe it is critical to ascertain the truth."

Phoenix thought, "I hope you know what you're doing Apollo." He started to sweat and continued his thoughts, "If you are wrong, it spells the end for Athena!"

Apollo walked back up to Iris and asked, "You took a look at the autopsy report Miss Fey, isn't that correct? I sent a copy of it to the clinic under orders of Mr. Edgeworth himself."

Iris nodded and said, "Yes, I received the file. It had your signature on the document as well as Mr. Edgeworth's signature. I'd never forget his signature, he was involved in the biggest case of my entire life."

Apollo smiled and said, "That was the case from the temple correct? Where you worked together with the true killer to protect a certain someone at the scene."

Iris answered, "That is correct. I have paid my dues for that crime, however."

Apollo said, "Please continue as to what you saw when you read that autopsy report, we await your testimony."

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Testimony: Iris' findings of the Autopsy Report

"At first, nothing of too much importance jumped out at me while reading the report. Then I started to notice something strange."

"I noticed that there was mysterious swelling around the entry point of the bullet. That kind of swelling doesn't exist in any form of ammunition in this country."

"Upon further reading of the report and looking at some more case details that was brought in, a certain item was brought to my attention. Franziska Von Karma herself contacted me, likely under orders from Mr. Edgeworth and the results were delivered right to the clinic room where I was looking after Fee...Mr. Wright and Miss Wright."

"Upon seeing these results, the pieces of the puzzle were starting to click into place. I knew exactly what had happened."

Juniper looked to Apollo who was already ready to begin. She nodded to him and Apollo began to Cross-Examination.

Apollo began to pace the courtroom floor and asked, "First, I'd like to ask why you were sent top secret documents regarding a homicide. Normally nurses are not privy to such knowledge."

Iris bit her lip then said, "I was sworn to secrecy by Mr. Edgeworth on the matter. I cannot betray his trust like that, not unless he calls me to tell me it is alright to tell the general public."

Apollo looked to Miss Woods and asked, "May I make a phone call to Mr. Edgeworth on the matter?"

Juniper nodded and waited as Apollo made the call on his phone.

Edgeworth answered the phone, "I figured it'd be you Mr. Justice, let me guess the situation shall I? Miss Fey is on the stand and cannot reveal why she was allowed access to classified documents such as homicide information."

Apollo said, "That's right, are you watching the trial?"

Edgeworth said, "Indeed, I am actually in the gallows right now. Tell her I give my permission to reveal the reason. The time has come anyways." He hung up the phone.

Apollo turned to Iris and said, "Mr. Edgeworth just granted his consent. Will you tell me now?"

Iris said, "Very well, but it will surprise you Mr. Justice." She paused then said, "I am in actuality a Detective of the Police department. I am no pushover Mr. Justice. I was trained under Detective Gumshoe and Detective Skye to be one of the best on the force. I was also instructed by Mr. Edgeworth to help out at the Hickfield Medical Clinic in cases of injury involving Homicides. This was so that evidence would return to the police department in as efficient a manner as possible. I am the third in command at the precinct."

The onlookers cried out in surprise. One man whispered, "That beautiful young girl is a police officer? Who would have thought it?"

Another called out, "A woman that frail looking?"

Juniper banged her gavel and called out, "ORDER! Miss Fey, how is it that you are a police detective when you look-"

Iris grinned and interrupted her, "So frail? I may not look it, but I could take down a lot of people in this room. I trained in martial arts when I was in that temple. It was one of my hobbies while I performed my regular duties of the temple. I did this so I would stay in shape. I used those skills to help me ace the physical examinations of the police force. It may not appear to be so, but I could run faster than most of the people in this room and lift more weight than a number of them." She smirked and said, "Do you still wish to contend my rank, or do I have to have Detective Skye vouch for my position?"

Juniper banged her gavel and said, "In light of this testimony, the court concludes that if she can lift an appropriate amount of weight, she would be telling the truth. Miss Fey, how much can you lift?"

Iris placed her finger on her chin and thought for a moment then said, "Around one hundred and fifty pounds when not warmed up."

Apollo sweated, "W-what? I can barely lift that when I'm warmed up. You're able to do that?"

Iris smirked and said, "I warned you Mr. Justice, I am no pushover."

Juniper said, "Bailiff, bring a one hundred and fifty pound weight from the weight room of the police office."

The bailiff sweated for a moment then brought in the weight. He seemed to be struggling until Iris walked over and took it from him. She lifted it above her head with both arms and then slowly lowered it to the floor then stood up and dusted off her hands. She wasn't even winded and said, "Satisfied?"

Juniper banged her gavel and said, "I accept the witness's claims into the court. She is a detective and a damn strong one at that."

Phoenix sweated and thought, "Remind me never to get her angry."

Maya whispered, "Wow, she is almost as strong as I am."

Phoenix gasped and turned to Maya and asked, "What did you just say?"

Maya said, "Oh...nothing Nick, nothing." She didn't tell him that she could lift one seventy cold. It was part of her daily regimen as a spirit medium.

Phoenix stared at her for a moment then returned his attention to the court.

Iris said, "As you can see, I am a detective, therefore it is no surprise I was granted access to the files."

Apollo said, "I see, still to be able to lift so much while still looking like you barely have any muscle is impressive."

Iris smiled and said, "It is called lean muscle Mr. Justice. If you are looking into getting into better shape, I will be glad to whip you into it."

Apollo flushed and said, "I'll consider it." He began to pace and thought back to her testimony. He said, "I remember you just said, "Upon seeing these results, the pieces of the puzzle were starting to click into place. I knew exactly what had happened." Do you care to elaborate on that statement more?"

Iris pulled out the report on the cork and said, "The police report of the cork found at the crime by Franziska and Miss Fey had blood on it. The blood results showed that it is indeed the victim's blood. The answer to your question Mr. Justice is that this cork was pushed into the victim's chest by the killer."

Apollo said, "You are certain of this as a detective and a nurse?"

Iris said, "I'd stake my very badge on it. It was inside the victim at some point or another, but not fully inside the victim. The outside edge of the cork had no blood on it. This means that the killer was wearing gloves and pulled it out at the right moment to make certain that the blood pooled under the victim."

Apollo turned to Juniper and said, "As you can see your honor, this testimony has just proven the possibility of the crime scene being a different location. It also has proven that the timing of the bullets are everything in this case."

Iris smiled and said, "I see the Anything Agency is just as interesting as I have heard. I will have fun working as a secretary for the company."

Phoenix blinked and said, "I thought you were joking about that."

Iris said, "I'd never joke about that. Edgeworth is all for it as well. He'd like to have a detective working alongside you Mr. Wright. He said something about having someone licensed to carry firearms being a necessity there now. Miss Mia Fey was murdered in that office, then Miss Wright and yourself were shot. Your office gets into more danger than a police officer sometimes does. As such, he was dead set on having someone there who was trained to protect others."

Phoenix thought, "So that's why she was determined to become my secretary."

Apollo smiled and rubbed Iris on top of her head and said, "Detective or not, I will still do this to you."

Iris smiled and sighed happily at the pleasant treatment until Apollo stopped and said, "Thank you Miss Fey, I look forward to working with you in the future."

Phoenix thought, "Well this has just gotten a whole lot more interesting. I didn't know she had become a detective, I wonder what else she is hiding from me. I will have to question her about it later."

Iris left the stand leaving the court room in a stunned silence.

Apollo said, "I'd like to call my next witness if the court will allow."

Juniper blinked and said, "Not another secret detective is it Apollo?"

Apollo laughed and said, "I seriously doubt it, but I think a recess may be in order to mentally recover after the last witness."

Juniper looked to Gavin and asked, "Are you in agreement with the defense, Mr. Gavin?"

Gavin was clenching the bench hard and called out, "Why wasn't I informed about this? I am a senior Prosecutor!"

Apollo said, "It would appear that no one was informed on this one, save the two detectives that trained her and Edgeworth himself. Even Mr. Wright did not know and he is one of Edgeworth's closest friends."

Juniper called out, "This court is in recess for twenty minutes for the Prosecution to recover from the mental trauma"

Gavin gaped, "W-what?"

She banged her gavel then left the courtroom.

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Twenty minute Recess...

Apollo sighed in relief and said, "Well we made it out of this one so far. I am concerned though."

Phoenix said, "Because we still can't identify the killer you mean?"

Apollo nodded and clenched his fists. He said, "I can't believe this scumbag is going to get away, damn it I wish I had been in that park! I could have knocked him out or something!"

Iris said, "You can't blame yourself Apollo. Besides I have a little ace up my sleeve I have been saving."

Phoenix turned to her and asked, "What do you mean Iris?"

Iris smiled and said, "You'll just have to wait and see Feenie. Needless to say, you will be surprised by what I have done." She waved then said, "I need to get some water and freshen up for a short bit, I'll see you back in the court room." She walked off towards the washroom.

Artemis asked, "Excuse me, Apollo? Are you calling me to the stand next?"

Apollo turned to her and said, "That alright Artemis?"

She nodded and said, "Of course, I want to testify and save Athena. I am a little bit scared to do so though."

Apollo took her hand in his and said, "You'll be fine, just tell the truth when you're up there okay?"

Artemis held his hand tightly and said, "You promise it will be alright?"

Apollo smiled and said, "Yes I do promise you that much Artemis. I won't let you go down for the crime you committed under duress."

Athena cleared her throat and said, "You two done flirting yet? We still haven't figured out what to do about the jackass who took his life! I may have hated the scumbag, but he didn't deserve to die that way!"

Phoenix chuckled and whispered in Athena's ear, "Sounds like you're jealous of the attention your sister is getting from Apollo."

Athena gasped then said, "O-Of COURSE I'm not! Good god, why would I be jealous of Apollo? Don't be stupid Boss!"

Maya said, "I don't know, doesn't the person who cares the most usually raise the biggest fuss?"

Athena glared and said, "Not you too Maya! Come on, it's Apollo for god's sake! Why would I be jealous over him and his devil horns of hair?"

Apollo winced and started to sweat. He thought, "D-Devil horns?"

Phoenix started to laugh and said, "Looks like you hit a sore spot Athena."

Apollo glared then took Artemis' hand and walked off to go get something to drink.

Phoenix said, "And he's gone, good job Athena."

Athena huffed and said, "Good riddance I say! Thinking I'd be jealous of my sister spending time with my attorney. Of all the cheek!"

Pearl said, "Still, you seem kind of bothered by it, I mean you're still talking about it."

Athena growled then turned away from them.

Maya said, "Now what Nick? Like it or not, Apollo is right. We don't have the true killer, nor do we really have a clue as to who he is. All we know is the bullets that were found in both your body and Trucy's body."

Phoenix began to think as he paced the room. He softly said, "I have to wonder if maybe he wasn't as careful as he thinks he was. While its true we have no clue who he is, and thanks to Artemis burning that letter, we can't even do a handwriting analysis, but is there no way to prove who he was?"

Athena said, "Maybe he left something at the scene of the crime? No, he wouldn't be that foolish."

Phoenix said, "Hang on, let me rethink this carefully." He began to pace the room then he stood stock still. He turned to her and said, "Didn't you say that he made a call to the Phantom or who you assumed to be the phantom seven years ago?"

Athena nodded and said, "Yeah, but I doubt Edgar Ora Chest's phone would keep a record from that long ago."

Phoenix said, "No, but the phone company would be able to dig up the record with enough prodding. If I can prove the victim's connection to the phantom, it will enable us to do some more digging. There is another thing...those leaves on the victim's body. Why were they there? If we assume he was killed in the office where we found that cork, then there shouldn't be any leaves on his body. Unless of course he was covered by leaves at one point. That's it! Those leaves are the answer, truly they are!"

Apollo asked, "Mind telling me your thoughts Mr. Wright?" He was back with Artemis who went over to Athena.

Artemis whispered, "Sorry Athena, I just felt so comfortable around him."

Athena whispered, "Nah it's fine, I guess I got a little bit jealous of you two."

Artemis grinned and said, "We can discuss that later, I think our defense attorneys are figuring something out."

Phoenix turned to the others and said, "There were prickly leaves mixed in with the bunch. I'm willing to bet that the killer buried the victim in the leaves, his blood could be on them."

Artemis said, "Sadly, that isn't the case Mr. Wright. You will see when I testify, however there was something he was determined to get his hands on. The letter he sent me warned me to steal the tape from the office's security footage. I was returning to the office, originally intending to do just that and then to go to the Anything Agency for help after the fact. My plan was to trade the tape for my father's release, then tell your defense team everything I knew, but your team was already checking the office when I arrived."

Phoenix gasped and said, "So the tape is still there?"

Artemis nodded and said, "That's right, it is stored in the office safe. That safe is one only I have the key to, its around my neck right now. It was designed to protect items from the park and would be hard to destroy. I would say only something as powerful as plastic explosives could crack it. Of course a laser could be used, but I doubt he'd be foolish enough to return there while the police are still watching it."

Phoenix made a call on his phone and said, "Edgeworth, I need a tape from the office near where I got shot. Artemis needs to give you the key to open the safe. I also need that tape within the next hour."

Edgeworth said, "I'll send Franziska personally, she will be there within three minutes." He hung up and called Franziska to let her know.

A few minutes later, Franziska walked up to Artemis and said, "The key, now girl! You should have told us about that tape while we were there!"

Artemis shook slightly then said, "I thought that if the tape was still there, he might hold off on killing my father."

Franziska took the key from Artemis and said, "If he is still alive, we sill do what we can to help him, for now we need your testimony."

Artemis nodded sadly as Franziska walked off. She shuddered and whispered, "What have I done? I truly have sentenced my father to die." Her phone rang and she looked at the caller ID. She shook slightly and said, "It's Edgar Ora Chest's phone calling me."

Phoenix froze then said, "Hand the phone to Athena, I have an idea."

She handed it to Athena who answered, "Y-yes?"

A male voice said, "I warned you Miss Cykes. I saw you get into that squad car with the police so I know what you are up to. I just figured I'd give you one last chance to speak to your father, before I kill him that is."

Another voice said, "Artemis? Is that you?"

Athena said, "No, it's Athena."

He paused then said, "I see, well don't cry for me, but I won't be going out alone. I love you and your sister very much, tell Athena that for me would you Artemis?"

Athena gasped then said, "Father, I-"

Phoenix took the phone and said, "Put me on with the killer."

Andrew motioned to the killer to take the phone.

He took it and said, "What you have something to say to me Artemis?"

Phoenix said, "Sorry but Artemis isn't here at the moment. I am giving you an option, let Andrew go."

The man laughed and said, "Why in the hell would I do that? You have nothing I want."

Phoenix said, "I wouldn't say that Mr. Killer. I think I have something you want very much, me."

Maya gasped and said, "Nick, you can't..."

Phoenix said, "Quiet Maya! How about it? A trade of hostages, you'd have the one who got your partner locked away for murder in your grasp, easy vengeance. That's what this has really been about right? It was never truly about Athena, it was about me all along."

The man said, "Interesting, but how do I know you won't have a police squad with you."

Phoenix said, "Simple, I shall come alone to the park, you release Andrew Cykes and you can have me in his place. One hour Mr. Killer, don't be late. Otherwise...well let's just say there will be a blasting good time." He hung up the phone and broke it in two.

Artemis pouted and said, "You can't do this Mr. Wright. How would I face myself if you-"

Phoenix said, "I swore something the moment I found out who truly was behind the UR-1 incident and that was to take down their organization. Don't worry I have my own little idea to stop this bastard once and for all."

Maya clutched his sleeve and whispered, "You can't do this Nick, I can't just let you-"

Phoenix said, "Maya, I have to do this." He drew her into a close hug and whispered, "No matter what, you're a spirit medium, and have a family of spirit mediums, so even if he does kill me, it isn't goodbye and you know it."

Maya said, "That's NOT the point Nick! I don't want to lose you!"

Phoenix said, "So the alternative is to let their father die? Sorry, I'm not that selfish Maya. This monster wants two things, Athena incarcerated so she can no longer identify the phantoms, and my head for taking down one of their kind. I can use that as leverage. Of course, I have my own plan of attack, so at least this time it will be a fair fight." He opened his phone and called Edgeworth and explain the situation.

Edgeworth paled when he heard that Phoenix was planning to exchange himself and whispered, "Wright have you lost your mind? He will kill you on sight!"

Phoenix said, "I doubt it Edgeworth. Think about it, I took down one of his organization, I'm pretty sure he will want to interrogate me first. He will want to know what I've told the police before anything else. That gives you the time you need. Do you remember that watch I left in your office a week ago? I left it there after the UR-1 incident was fully resolved. I knew they would return to attempt to finish the job, same as I knew that Athena would be targeted."

Athena gasped and whispered, "You knew that this would happen?"

Phoenix said, "I had a gut instinct that this would come to pass, but I wasn't sure precisely how or when it would happen. Nor did I expect them to actually kill someone and frame you for it. To be honest I had a tracker placed on your phone, just in case you went missing. Of course, I was unconscious at the time, so I couldn't use it to find you in the park. You made certain of that."

Athena cringed as Phoenix turned to go towards the door and said, "I leave the rest to you Apollo." He left the room and closed the door behind him with a resounding click.

Artemis held her hand to her mouth in horror. She made a step towards the door and said, "I can't just let him do this! If he dies to save father, I will never forgive myself." She ran towards the door but found her path was blocked by Apollo. She swung her hand to the left and said, "Out of my way Apollo!"

Apollo shook his head and said, "We have to trust Mr. Wright."

Artemis shouted, "This guy is a cold blooded murderer! You want to let him walk into that?"

Apollo shouted, "Of course I don't! Don't be absurd Artemis!" He sighed and said, "That stated, Mr. Wright has gotten through some tough situations before and I have to have faith that he will come through this one alive."

Athena whispered, "This is my fault...I shouldn't have put you guys to sleep. Perhaps things could be different."

Apollo said, "Don't start thinking that way Athena. No matter what could have been, there is no telling now is there? We just have to trust in him and do our own part. Court is about to resume and I need Artemis and you in there. The two of you are my final witnesses after all."

Athena gasped and asked, "Me? What could I possibly tell you?"

Apollo smiled and said, "You will see soon enough."

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Trial Day 2, continued...

Juniper took her seat and said, "Are we ready to continue? Mr. Gavin, have you recovered from your surprise?"

Gavin smiled and said, "Yes your honor, when we left off, the defense had presented an interesting theory behind this murder. This is namely the location of the murder, as well as the possibility that a cork was used to stop the blood flow of the victim until the appropriate moment. What they have failed to explain was where the body was hidden." He made the motion as though he were playing an electronic guitar and said ,"Of course they have no proof of their allegations besides a rubber cork that had the victim's blood on it and the prosecution already has an answer for that."

Apollo glared and thought, "What is he up to now?"

Gavin said, "I call Miles Edgeworth himself to the stand. I'd like to hear what he has to say about her allegations of being a detective. I did some research and there is no record of Iris Fey or even Iris Hawthorne being a detective at any point in this precinct."

The crowd began to buzz until Juniper calmed down the court and said, "Very well, but I hope you are going somewhere with this Mr. Gavin. Calling the Chief Prosecutor to the stand is a risky move."

Gavin said, "Of course your honor."

Edgeworth walked up and stood at the stand and said, "Mr. Gavin, I thought I told you what I needed to during the recess."

Gavin smiled and said, "I wanted it on the record, or are you afraid of telling the truth?"

Edgeworth slammed his hand on the witness stand and said, "Don't lecture me about the truth Gavin! I have been hunting for the truth long before you were even accepted as an attorney."

Gavin chuckled and said, "Touchy, aren't we? What could you possibly be hiding with such bravado?"

Apollo called out, "Objection! The prosecution is badgering the witness!"

Juniper said, "Sustained, the Prosecution will refrain from badgering the witness on the stand."

Gavin smiled and said, "Of course, my question to Edgeworth is this, why is there no record of Miss Fey being at the precinct? I believe the court requires an explanation from you!"

Edgeworth sighed and said, "Very well, but there is a very good explanation waiting in the wings and when you hear it, you will feel like a fool Gavin. I warned you not to call me to the stand, now you will understand why."

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Testimony: Iris Fey, Detective?

"It was five years ago, Miss Fey approached me and talked to me of a very personal incident that happened to her eight years ago."

"She had just gotten out of prison from the charge of falsifying a crime scene. This was all done for the sake of protecting one young woman. The woman's mother was murdered during the crime and it was solved by one attorney who didn't give up on the case until the truth was made clear."

"Miss Fey's twin sister's spirit was behind the crime, yet in our court of law, a spirit cannot be tried for murder. There is nothing one can do to a spirit, after all."

"Miss Fey's request was to join the police force to assist in catching criminals and it was then that I thought of a plan to utilize this to help catch the criminals a regular detective could not catch due to the confines of the law."

"I witnessed her skills in the training yard personally, alongside Detective Gumshoe and Detective Ema Skye. Her skills were some of the best I had seen in the force since Damon Gant himself. Her investigative prowess were also extremely impressive. I extended her training to learn my own personal method of examination and even taught her the art of cross-examination."

"I learned the art of cross-examination from three people in my life. The first was my own father who was a famed Defense Attorney before he was murdered by my future mentor in the prosecution field. The second was Miss Mia Fey, a genius defense attorney. Finally I learned the last I knew from Phoenix Wright himself."

"She was promoted to Detective alongside her peers by Detective Gumshoe himself. She was hired under a false name so that she couldn't be traced to the police department. Then I had her work undercover as a nurse at the Hickfield Medical Clinic so she could bring evidence of homicides straight to the precinct."

He smiled and said, "Enough detail for you Mr. Gavin?"

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Juniper banged her gavel and said, "It would appear you were mistaken to call this witness Mr. Gavin."

Gavin slammed his hand on the prosecuting desk and said, "We will see with the defense's cross-examination. After all, evidence is everything in a court of law!"

Juniper asked, "Is the defense prepared to cross-examine the witness?"

Apollo thought, "Really, what are you trying to accomplish here Gavin, this isn't like you. Normally you are more about the truth than this. Something else is bothering him." He nodded and said, "Yes your honor."

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Cross-Examination: Iris Fey, Detective?

Apollo walked up and asked, "Your testimony seems to be concrete, and yet something still doesn't add up. Correct me if I'm wrong, but Mr. Wright is one of your closest friends, why was he not informed of this plan? You two even concocted a method in which to lure out the Phantom who was behind the Dark Age of the Law that was crushed a little over a week ago."

Edgeworth said, "That actually was not my idea. Most surprisingly, Miss Fey herself requested that the Anything Agency be kept in the dark about the matter."

Apollo said, "But that doesn't make sense, Miss Fey was a former girlfriend of Mr. Wright. She also truly cared about him, wouldn't his knowledge of how certain people think be of great assistance to investigations?"

Edgeworth said, "True, I actually said the same thing to her. She was insistent, however. Her decision was based on a choice to protect Mr. Wright."

Apollo pulled out a document and tapped it and said, "However Mr. Wright and Miss Wright were both shot yesterday. How was her keeping her identity as an undercover detective keeping him safe exactly?"

Edgeworth sighed and said, "That was most regrettable. Luckily Mr. Wright and Miss Wright both made a complete recovery."

Apollo tapped the desk and said, "And yet it could have gone a far darker road, wouldn't you agree Mr. Edgeworth?"

Edgeworth said, "That it could have."

Apollo said, "One further question, if I may?"

Edgeworth said, "I don't see any reason why not?"

Apollo said, "What name did she put herself under?"

Edgeworth smiled and said, "She got herself hired under the alias Iris Justice."

Apollo took a step back and said ,"She used my last name?"

Edgeworth said, "It was her idea. She had heard about a young man who was training to become a defense attorney. She decided that the name Justice would fit what she attempted to protect. That said, she has been invaluable throughout her career thus far."

Apollo shook slightly then said, "No further questions your honor."

Juniper said, "The witness may step down."

Edgeworth walked past Mr. Gavin and said, "Next time you wish to bring me to court, make sure it is worth my time. I look forward to your annual review Mr. Gavin."

Gavin grimaced and said, "You know why I called you Mr. Edgeworth. I wanted to be certain you weren't hiding anything critical from this court."

Edgeworth said, "I know, I apologize to you for not telling you. I would like you to know that I wanted to tell you, but Miss Fey actually requested that no attorney be made aware of her real profession." He walked off and went back to the gallery.

Juniper asked, "Is there any further witnesses?"

Apollo said, "Yes your honor, I call a new witness to the stand. She has first hand knowledge of how this crime was carried out, and how the body was moved. Before I call her, however, I submit to the court that she was under duress at the time of this incident. She was forced to commit the crimes she has done in order to save the life of her father."

Juniper stared at him then said, "Duly noted Mr. Justice, bring this witness to the stand."

Apollo nodded to Artemis who stood up and walked over to the stand.

Juniper gasped and said, "Athena? Why are you at the stand?"

Artemis smiled and said, "Well you're half right Miss Woods. I am a Cykes after all, but I am not Athena."

Apollo said, "I present to the court the woman who purchased the gun used in the murder, as well as the same woman who assisted the killer in moving the body and was the person who removed the cork from the victim's body to make the blood pool authentic at the crime scene."

The gallery roared with indignation until Juniper slammed her gavel on the desk with a resounding crack and shouted, "ORDER IN THE COURT!" She took a deep breath and said, "Mr. Justice, are you aware of what you are saying right now?"

Apollo said, "I am extremely aware of what I am saying Junie, that's why I stated it as plainly as I could. Under Duress, this witness placed a cork in the victim's body after the shooting took place at a location she will tell us. She also was the one who helped the killer move the body and then removed the cork."

Juniper sighed and asked, "Witness, how do you respond to these allegations by the defense?"

Artemis stared back then said, "I will respond with my testimony your honor."

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Testimony: Artemis' Involvement

Artemis said, "As the defense claims, I was the one who purchased the gun." She flicked her earring on her left ear and said, "I was also the one who helped the killer move the body and falsify where the blood was in order to disguise the true location of murder."

"My actions were under orders from the killer himself. He has my father hostage at this very moment and under threat of my father's death I acted."

"At two am, I entered the weapon's shop with Athena Cykes' stolen ID and paperwork to purchase the weapon."

"Because of how similar I am to Miss Cykes, it was quite easy for me to fake being her. I was unaware of Miss Cykes' iconic glove on her right hand, nor was I aware that she had an earring the exact same as mine that she wore in her right ear instead of her left."

"After purchasing the weapon, I went straight to the office where the Defense found the rubber cork. It was laying on the desk, ready to be used as it said in the blackmail letter."

"I re-read the letter and found out what to do with it and placed the gun in the potted plant outside the office door. Half an hour later the victim entered the office."

"The door opened behind us and a single gunshot rang out. The victim looked at his chest in horror, then his eyes started to cloud over in the mist of death. I picked up the cork and plunged it into the bullet wound of the victim, thus stopping the blood flow so it wouldn't get on the floor."

"After this, I knew I had only two hours to set up the crime scene, so I took the gun from the killer and started to set up the crime scene. This was also part of the killers orders. I fired the bullet into the tree at the crime scene, the exact tree that he had specified. I then returned the gun to the killer. We moved the body to the pile of leaves near the falsified crime scene and waited until Miss Cykes arrived."

"I saw her enter the park only a few minutes after we had set up the body in the leaves so I knew she probably heard the gunshot I fired into the tree. I watched as the killer and Miss Cykes got into a heated argument. His lines were staged, but she was speaking from the heart. Her exact words were, "I can't believe you have the nerve to speak to me after what you did to me you asshole!""

"His response was that her special sense of hearing was a blight on the world and a threat to everything he held dear." She paused then continued, "He pulled out the gun and fired a single shot. This bullet went past Miss Cykes and obviously pierced the Yield sign as that was where it was found. I saw Miss Cykes hide behind a garbage can and that is when I fulfilled my orders from the killer. I came out of the portable washroom and helped the killer move the body onto the path. I removed the cork as he fired the forth and final shot into the leaves behind us. He tossed the gun onto the ground and the two of us ran into the office nearby, thus completing the illusion."

"As for the rest, you know it all too well. Miss Cykes obviously picked up the gun in shock and stared at it as if wondering what had just happened. This is precisely when the four witnesses came onto the scene."

Juniper asked, "Speaking of those witnesses, why haven't we heard from them Mr. Gavin?"

Gavin said, "Their statements were exactly the same as Miss Wright's statement's from yesterday's court trial, save one statement the other woman made. She said she heard a third gunshot, but as Miss Athena Cykes said the same thing in her testimony, I felt it was unnecessary to call them to the stand."

Juniper nodded then looked at Artemis and asked, "Do you have proof of your father's abduction?"

Artemis shook her head and said, "No, I do not your honor. I was ordered to burn the blackmail letter after the crime was carried out. My last order involving this case was to not testify on the matter and to retrieve the cork from the office and dispose of it."

Juniper blinked then said ,"But you have failed to do those last two things, doesn't that mean your father will be killed?"

Artemis said, "My father would sooner die than see Athena go to prison, same with myself. If you need proof, however, why don't you just check my phone?"

Juniper asked, "Why would we do that?"

Artemis said, "During the Recess, the killer called my cell phone and allowed my father to speak to me as if to say goodbye to me. Miss Cykes sitting in the defendant's chair heard the conversation. Then Mr. Wright himself offered to exchange himself for the safety of my father."

The crowd began to buzz until Juniper quieted them and said, "So if Mr. Wright shows up, we will have proof of your statements?"

Artemis said, "Confirm with Mr. Justice, Miss Cykes and Miss Maya Fey right there if you need further proof. They were all in the room with me when the call came in, as was Miss Pearl Fey. The call is also recorded onto my phone as evidence. I just hope Mr. Wright didn't bite off more than he could chew."

Juniper sighed and asked, "Mr. Gavin, any word on Mr. Wright's location?"

Gavin said, "There is nothing in the record about it, I was wondering why he wasn't at the bench."

Apollo said, "The Defense can confirm the witness' statements as the entire team was present when the call was made. I present Miss Cyke's cell phone into evidence."

Juniper listened to the recorded conversation and gasped, "This is precisely as the witness claims. The man on the other end has her father hostage and Mr. Wright has gone to exchange himself for the father of the witness."

The crowd began to buzz and Juniper banged her gavel on the desk. She said, "With this new evidence, I can safely declare Miss Athena Cykes is innocent of all charges."

A voice called out, "OBJECTION!" Gavin had moved to the center of the courtroom and said, "All the defense has proven with this charade is that this witness didn't pull the trigger. We have no proof that this man is the one who pulled the trigger that ended the victim's life. I would like to call for a suspension of the trial to investigate these allegations myself."

Juniper thought for a moment until Apollo cried out, "Objection! I can prove that miss Cykes did not pull that trigger your honor."

Athena stared at Apollo in surprise.

Apollo crossed his arms and said, "I'd like to submit into evidence three bullets. One was found in the Yield sign behind her. We proved in yesterday's proceedings that someone else was holding the gun at the time of the murder. Second these other two bullets were recovered from Mr and Miss Wright's bodies. They weren't permanently harmed by them, however it proves that this man was in fact involved in the shooting. My final piece of evidence is this." He pulled out a picture of the victim. He tapped the picture and said, "As you can clearly see there are leaves in the victim's trench-coat."

Gavin said, "You are grasping Heir Forehead."

Apollo said, "I think not Mr. Gavin. You see if the victim was indeed shot after the leaves were on the victim's body, there would be blood on at least one of the leaves. As you can see there is no blood on them whatsoever. This means that the victim was moved out from a pile of leaves and then the cork was removed. As such, I assert that it is impossible for Athena to have committed this crime."

Juniper asked, "Does the prosecution have a rebuttal to this new theory?"

Gavin said, "How do we know that the blood went in the direction of his trench-coat collar? It pooled out underneath his body."

Apollo smiled and said, "The answer to that is right under your nose. Note the way the blood has pooled out, it flowed down the trench-coat from the sides, not from the collar. In fact there is no blood on the collar. On top of that, if he had been shot where the prosecution claims, he would have fallen over backward and at least some blood would have flowed from the impact upwards onto the collar. As it did not, it would appear it came from the wound after the body was already laying on the ground. This is supported by the witness' claims. I have one final conclusive bit of evidence however, I call Miss Athena Cykes to the stand!"

The crowd roared out in surprise and Juniper slammed her gavel onto the stand and said, "ORDER! Mr. Justice, why are you calling the defendant to the stand."

Apollo said, "You'll see your honor, the moment Athena takes the stand, this case is over, at least in the situation of Athena's supposed guilt in the situation."

Juniper nodded as Athena took Artemis' place.

Artemis whispered, "Go get em sis, I believe in you."

Athena smiled and said, "Thanks, never would have thought I'd have a sister, let alone one that would go through so much effort to keep our father alive." She took the stand and said, "I don't exactly know what Mr Justice wishes for me to testify about.

Apollo said, "Simple, I want you to testify once more about what you saw on the scene, most notably which hand was holding the gun when it was drawn."

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Final Testimony: Athena's Observations

"When I arrived in the park, I heard a gunshot go off. I was unsure as to whether to continue or not."

"I walked to the bench near the trash can when I saw a man walking up towards me. He was wearing a green trench-coat that looked fairly new. I noticed that he was walking strangely, almost as though he had twisted his ankle or something."

"I told him that he had some nerve even talking to me after what he had put me through as a child. His response was that my special sense of hearing was a blight on this world and that it threatened everything he held dear. He then blamed me for my mother's death and pulled out a gun. It was in his left hand."

She paused then said, "He fired a shot at me, to which I hid behind the trash can at the scene. About thirty seconds later, I heard a second shot ring out. After a minute of silence, I looked out from behind the trash can, to see the victim laying on the ground in a green trench-coat. This coat looked a little worn, but I was in too much shock to realize that at the time. The gun was laying on the ground between the trash can and the victim's body. I walked over to it in a daze and picked it up. I couldn't believe what had just happened, I thought that someone had shot him, but it wasn't me."

Juniper said, "Mr. Justice, your cross-examination if you please."

Apollo nodded and said, "Gladly your honor. It's time to finish this!"

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Final Cross-Examination: Athena's Observations

Apollo walked up to Athena and said, "You've been very brave throughout these proceedings Miss Cykes. I'd like to know, are you certain it was in his left hand that he held the gun?"

Athena nodded and said, "Yes, that is correct. I am certain it was in his left hand."

Apollo said, "How odd, the prints on the gun are from the left hand as well, but they are yours. That is the hand you picked up the gun with is it not?"

Athena said, "Yes, if my memory is correct about the moment after I saw the gun. That part is a little bit hazy as I was still in shock."

Apollo smiled and said, "You see, I'd like to submit a medical document I obtained late last night from the Hickfield Medical Clinic. If you look at the victim's body, you will notice there is a bad injury on the victim's left hand. This was left over from an incident in the past. Miss Cykes, when you were eleven, this man forced himself on you and violated you, is that not correct?"

Athena hung her head and whispered, "Yes, that's true..."

Apollo said, "Is it not also true that right after the incident, you took the utility knife from your drawer that you kept to work on robots with your mother and stabbed him in the left hand with it?"

Athena gasped and said, "Now that you mention it, I remember doing that to him yes. I wanted to pay him back for violating me! I didn't stab him anywhere vital, but it did sink directly into the left hand."

Apollo said, "That knife could be classified as a serial attacking weapon by now your honor. Seven years ago, it was used to stab the phantom's hand, and around the same time a similar weapon was used to teach the victim a lesson by stabbing into the left hand. Finally, it was used to an ultimate end, killing Clay Terran. Now where am I going with this, can you take a guess Miss Cykes?"

Athena fiddled with the moon rock earring in her right ear and then gasped out in surprise. She said, "I got him right through the hand, and from the photo of the victim, he would have had a very hard time holding the gun in his left hand."

Apollo said, "And yet, you are certain he fired the gun with his left hand. Tell me, was the man wearing gloves?"

Athena said, "He must have been, his prints weren't left on the weapon."

Apollo pulled out the photo and cried, "Take THAT!" The photo was placed in front of Miss Woods. He said, "As you can plainly see, the victim in question was not wearing gloves on his hands. Tell me something, who could have removed the gloves from his hand if he had been holding the gun?"

Juniper gasped and said, "If he was wearing gloves, then only someone else could have removed the gloves from his hands."

Apollo tapped the photo and said, "And yet, the witnesses arrived as Miss Cykes was holding the gun over the body. She didn't have time to bend down and remove a pair of gloves from the victim's hands, thus making it appear as though his prints should have been on the weapon. I'd also like to remind the court that Miss Cykes was in shock. This was also confirmed by Miss Wright's testimony yesterday afternoon. As another note, no pair of gloves were found on the scene of the crime, nor on Miss Cykes' person when she was arrested. In fact the only glove she had with her is the one she is wearing right now. This glove is one of a kind, it was covered in yesterday's trial."

Juniper asked, "What does this mean Mr. Justice?"

Apollo slammed his hand on the desk and said, "It means that another man was at the scene of the crime. This man was wearing gloves to prevent his connection to the case to be made public. He is also the same man who threatened Miss Artemis Cykes' father's life and coerced her into aiding him in setting up this gruesome crime! As a final note, he has been pulling the strings of this court until now. Mr. Wright has gone to confront this man and attempt to solve the situation once and for all at great risk to his personal safety. The fact that the victim is not wearing gloves in this photo is the conclusive proof. It also explains why only Athena's prints are on the weapon. Seeing as the victim is not wearing gloves and there is a bullet in the yield sign, it proves that the other person at the scene held the weapon. If it truly was the victim who fired at her that day, his prints would be without a doubt on this gun, and yet we have proven that it is just Athena's prints. Therefore, Miss Cykes is innocent of all charges."

Juniper tapped her gavel and asked, "Mr. Gavin? Any objections?"

Gavin said, "Just one, Miss Cykes could have wiped the prints off the gun when she picked up the weapon. Remember that it took the witnesses half a minute to arrive. Had she wiped the prints off and held it in her left hand, it'd complete the illusion. If you cannot disprove that, you have no case Mr. Justice."

Apollo said, "I can disprove that really easily Mr. Gavin. I just need to rethink this case." He began to think to himself, "Gavin is presenting us with the possibility that Athena wiped the prints, yet she put her own prints on the gun in place." He pulled out a report of the defendant at the time of arrest, written by Simon Blackquill and confirmed by Detective Gumshoe. He tapped it and said, "According to this, there was no cloth found on the defendant, nor was there any gunpowder residue on her clothes. This residue would have been wiped off onto her clothes after she allegedly wiped the gun clean. We can safely conclude that she did not use her clothes. The only other thing around the scene that could possibly have been used were the leaves from the park. However leaves are not a good material to wipe a gun clean of prints. It would smudge the prints and still leave at least some remnant on the weapon. The prints were from a clear left hand and we have just proven that only her prints have been found. This means that she didn't wipe the gun with leaves or there would be a second set of prints that are smudged buried under her own prints. As this does not exist, it means the victim never held this gun, which also conclusively proves that the defendant was shot at by a third man who was posing as the victim. I call for a ruling of not guilty on the defendant immediately and further investigation into the identity of the man who fired at Miss Cykes, as well as coerced Artemis Cykes, kidnapped Andrew Cykes and finally have threatened Mr. Wright's life."

Juniper held her gavel in her hand and said, "Any further objections Mr. Gavin?"

Gavin sighed and said, "None your honor, I cannot dispute his allegations in this matter."

Juniper said, "I find the defendant, Athena Cykes...Not guilty!" She slammed her gavel down and confetti began to come raining down onto Athena.

Athena clasped her hands together happily, with a huge smile on her face.

Apollo cried out, "Objection! This is no time for celebrating your honor! We may have proven Miss Cykes' innocence today, but Mr. Wright is still in grave danger!"

Juniper nodded and said, "You are indeed correct. Mr. Gavin, are the police mobilizing?"

Gavin said, "I just made the call to have them go to the park where Mr. Wright arrived probably around half an hour ago. They should be leaving any moment now."

Apollo said, "We have no time to spare, we have to find a way to end this, once and for all!"

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So ends Turnabout Serenade, but what has happened to Phoenix? Is he still alive? Will they catch the true killer of this case? What of Artemis and her criminal part in all of this? Will Apollo prevent her from being arrested over it? Stay tuned for the conclusion to the Turnabout Serenade Story: True Fear!

Turnabout Serenade's case may be over, but the aftermath has not been resolved yet. What will be the final conclusion to the events of Edgar Ora Chest's murder and Phoenix's fate? Read on to find out in Chapter 5.

Also voting is now open and will be extended until chapter six starts being written as to which style you as the readers enjoyed more, the system used in this chapter or the system used in chapter two for trials. Please review your votes and inform me!