Chapter 1: The Multiversal Spotlight
The newsroom hummed with urgency, the air charged with the electric anticipation of breaking news. Trish Tilby sat under the bright glow of studio lights, her reflection shimmering faintly on the polished desk before her. Around her, a small army of technicians and producers scrambled to ensure everything ran smoothly. The countdown to the live broadcast ticked away on a massive screen, its numbers pulsing red.
She adjusted her earpiece and glanced at the teleprompter, though she hardly needed it. The story was etched into her mind — the trial of the century, one that spanned dimensions and defied conventional journalism.
"Thirty seconds!" called a voice from the control booth.
Trish inhaled deeply, smoothing a stray strand of blond hair back into place. This was her moment to command the attention of billions across the multiverse. The trial of Galactus wasn't just a headline; it was a nexus point in history. And she was the one bringing it to the world.
The timer hit zero. The camera light blinked red. The world was watching.
"Good evening, viewers," she began, her voice a perfect blend of authority and gravity. "Tonight, we bring you an unprecedented report. Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, a cosmic entity feared across galaxies, is set to stand trial before the Intergalactic Court. His crime? The attempted annihilation of Earth — a planet whose defenders have thwarted his apocalyptic designs time and again. Yet in a twist no one could have foreseen, his defense attorney is a human. Not a cosmic advocate or a legal deity, but Phoenix Wright, a lawyer from Earth known for his unconventional courtroom tactics."
As she spoke, the screen behind her displayed footage of Galactus bound in shimmering golden chains, his immense form dwarfing the courtroom around him. Even restrained, his presence radiated an overwhelming sense of power.
"The trial raises questions that extend beyond the law," Trish continued. "What led to this choice of representation? Is Phoenix Wright truly equipped to handle a case of this magnitude? And, perhaps most importantly, can justice prevail against a being who operates on a scale incomprehensible to mortal minds?"
The scene cut to a clip of the Avengers' Quinjet soaring over a devastated landscape, the aftermath of Galactus's most recent attempt to consume Earth. A montage followed, showing Captain America addressing the United Nations, Doctor Strange consulting with the Vishanti, and Iron Man standing before a holographic display of the cosmic tribunal.
"Earth's heroes have done their part to protect the planet," Trish said. "Now, the question is whether the Intergalactic Court can hold Galactus accountable."
The broadcast shifted to a split-screen format, introducing April Ryan of Metro City News on the other half of the screen. Unlike Trish's polished poise, April's presentation carried a sharp edge, her dark blazer and piercing gaze exuding no-nonsense professionalism.
"That's right, Trish," April said, her voice cutting through the shared feed. "This trial has implications far beyond the Marvel Universe. Here in the Capcom dimension, the case has sparked heated debate among our own heroes. Fighters like Ryu and Chun-Li have risked their lives to protect Earth alongside Marvel's defenders. They're questioning not only the fairness of this trial but the wisdom of entrusting Phoenix Wright with the task of defending a being like Galactus."
A video clip of Chun-Li played next. She stood at a press conference podium, her typically calm demeanor replaced by visible frustration.
"I respect Phoenix Wright," she said, her tone measured but firm. "He's proven himself in impossible situations before. But defending Galactus? This isn't just about legal tactics. It's about the fate of countless worlds. One misstep could doom us all."
April's voice returned as the feed switched back to her. "It's clear that this trial isn't just a battle in the courtroom. It's a battle for the future of our shared existence. And while Phoenix Wright has faced formidable odds before, this time, he's stepping into a firestorm of cosmic proportions."
Back in her own studio, Trish leaned forward slightly, her expression somber. "Public reaction has been intense," she said. "Protests have erupted across multiple dimensions, with many calling for Galactus to face immediate execution. Yet others warn against the dangers of such an act. Could destroying Galactus destabilize the delicate balance of the cosmos?"
The screen filled with images of protests: signs reading "Justice for the Multiverse" and "No Mercy for the Devourer" waved amid throngs of demonstrators. The tension in the air was palpable, even through the broadcast.
As the news cycle swirled, Phoenix Wright sat in a small, dimly lit office within the Intergalactic Court's sprawling complex. The hum of distant energy fields was the only sound as he pored over a mountain of legal documents. His usually unflappable demeanor was strained, his brows furrowed in concentration.
"Defending Galactus," he muttered to himself, running a hand through his spiky hair. "What was I thinking?"
The case files before him detailed millennia of destruction, entire civilizations erased in the wake of Galactus's hunger. The sheer scale of the crimes made his head spin. How could he possibly defend someone whose existence was a blight on reality itself?
Yet as he turned the pages, something began to nag at him. Inconsistencies, subtle but persistent, hinted at layers of complexity beneath the surface. Why had Galactus chosen Earth repeatedly? Why now, after eons of evasion, had he agreed to stand trial?
Phoenix leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling. "There's more to this," he whispered. "There has to be."
Meanwhile, the worlds of Marvel and Capcom continued to buzz with speculation. In Wakanda, Shuri debated with council members about the potential fallout of a guilty verdict. In Metro City, Mayor Haggar issued a statement calling for unity between dimensions. Even villains like Doctor Doom and Wesker watched with interest, their own schemes momentarily set aside as they calculated how the trial might affect their plans.
By the time Trish and April signed off their respective broadcasts, the stage was set. The trial of Galactus wasn't just a legal proceeding. It was a crucible that would test the resolve, alliances, and moral codes of every being involved.
And at the center of it all, Phoenix Wright stared into the abyss of his client's crimes, determined to find a sliver of truth that could save not only his case but the multiverse itself.
Chapter 1: The Trial of the Century (Continued)
Phoenix stood before the assembled multiverse, his mouth dry, the eyes of countless spectators burning into him. The weight of the moment was nearly overwhelming. In the back of the courtroom, murmurs continued as more Marvel and Capcom figures filtered in. This wasn't just a trial — it was a spectacle.
"Defense, you may continue," the judge's voice reverberated, cutting through the tension like a blade.
Phoenix tightened his grip on the defense podium, his knuckles white. He scanned the crowd, his mind racing. He had to focus, had to find a way to sway this impossibly large jury.
"Your Honor," Phoenix began, his voice wavering before steadying. "I understand the gravity of this trial. Galactus is... well, he's Galactus. I won't pretend to fully understand his actions, but as his attorney, it's my job to ensure he's given a fair defense."
A scoff echoed from the prosecution's side. Phoenix glanced over to see She-Hulk, Jennifer Walters, the lead prosecutor, smirking as she leaned casually against her podium. "Fair defense?" she quipped. "Wright, your client eats planets. Forgive us if we find the concept of fairness a little... hard to swallow."
The audience erupted into murmurs, a few chuckles breaking the tension. Phoenix adjusted his tie nervously.
"Objection!" he shot back, his voice rising. "This courtroom isn't about passing immediate judgment — it's about uncovering the truth. If we rush to conclusions, we risk missing the bigger picture."
She-Hulk raised an eyebrow but said nothing, crossing her arms.
The judge gestured for Phoenix to proceed. "Very well. But this court does not have infinite patience, Mr. Wright."
Phoenix exhaled sharply and turned back to his client. Galactus remained silent and unmoving, his towering form encased in shimmering cosmic chains. Despite his pitiful appearance, his presence was a reminder of the immense power he wielded — power that had brought countless worlds to ruin.
Phoenix took a deep breath and addressed the court again. "Before we condemn Galactus outright, we must consider this: is he truly a villain, or is he a force of nature? A necessary part of the cosmic cycle?"
The crowd's murmurs grew louder.
"A force of nature?" shouted Haggar from the gallery, his voice booming. "I don't care what he is! He tried to destroy Earth! That makes him our enemy."
Several others shouted in agreement, their voices rising in anger.
"ORDER!" the judge thundered, his glowing gavel slamming against the stand. The courtroom fell silent once more, the judge's star-lit gaze sweeping the crowd. "This is a court of law, not a forum for emotional outbursts. Any further disruptions will result in removal from the proceedings."
Phoenix swallowed hard, grateful for the momentary reprieve.
He glanced at She-Hulk. "The prosecution seems content to focus on Galactus's actions — the destruction he's caused. But has anyone stopped to ask why? Why does Galactus consume planets? Is it mere hunger, or is there something more to it?"
A skeptical laugh came from Doctor Doom, seated in the audience. "Foolish lawyer. Galactus is a parasite, nothing more. Your attempts to humanize him are as pathetic as your client's defense."
Phoenix gritted his teeth. "Doctor Doom, I understand your perspective, but this court deals in facts, not personal opinions."
"Careful, Wright," She-Hulk warned, her tone sharp. "You're treading dangerous ground, speculating on things you don't understand."
"Then let's understand them!" Phoenix countered, his voice gaining strength. "Your Honor, I request permission to present evidence regarding Galactus's origins."
The judge regarded him for a long moment, his glowing eyes unreadable. Finally, he nodded. "Proceed."
Phoenix pulled a holographic device from his briefcase, activating it with a flick of his wrist. A massive projection filled the courtroom, depicting swirling galaxies and vibrant cosmic phenomena.
"Galactus wasn't always the Devourer of Worlds," Phoenix began, his voice steady. "He was once a mortal being, much like us. His name was Galan, a scientist from a planet called Taa. He became what he is now due to a cosmic accident during the collapse of the previous universe."
The room fell into a stunned silence. Even Galactus seemed to stir slightly, his head tilting ever so slightly toward the projection.
"After the Big Bang that created our current universe, Galan was reborn as Galactus, an entity of immense power," Phoenix continued. "But this transformation came with a curse: an insatiable hunger that drives him to consume worlds. It's not a choice; it's a compulsion."
She-Hulk stepped forward, her voice cutting through the silence. "Even if that's true, it doesn't absolve him of the consequences of his actions. Billions of lives have been lost because of his 'compulsion,' Wright. You're asking us to feel sorry for him?"
"I'm asking you to understand him," Phoenix replied, his tone firm. "To see that Galactus is more than a monster. He's a being bound by forces beyond his control. Condemning him without fully understanding those forces would be unjust."
The judge leaned forward, his massive form casting a shadow over the courtroom. "This court requires proof, Mr. Wright. Speculation alone will not suffice."
Phoenix nodded, wiping sweat from his brow. "Understood, Your Honor. I request time to gather more evidence and call additional witnesses."
The judge considered this for a moment before nodding. "Very well. You have until the next session to present your findings. But be warned: the patience of this court is not infinite."
The gavel slammed down, signaling the end of the day's proceedings.
As the courtroom began to empty, Phoenix slumped against his podium, exhaustion washing over him. This case was unlike anything he'd ever faced before, and the weight of it was almost too much to bear.
"Hey, Wright," She-Hulk called, her voice surprisingly soft. "Good luck. You're going to need it."
Phoenix managed a weak smile. "Thanks, I guess."
In the gallery, Thor glared at him with barely restrained fury, while Mike Haggar whispered to a group of Marvel and Capcom heroes, clearly plotting something.
Phoenix gathered his notes and turned to leave, but a deep, resonant voice stopped him in his tracks.
"Phoenix Wright," Galactus rumbled, his voice low and almost sorrowful.
Phoenix froze, turning slowly to face his client.
"You truly believe you can save me?" Galactus asked, his glowing eyes piercing into Phoenix's soul.
Phoenix hesitated before answering, his voice quiet but resolute. "I don't know if I can save you, Galactus. But I have to try."
Galactus said nothing, his massive form remaining still. But for the first time, Phoenix thought he saw a flicker of something in the cosmic entity's gaze — something that looked almost like hope.
As Phoenix exited the courtroom, he knew the road ahead would only get harder. But if there was even a chance he could uncover the truth and save the multiverse, he was willing to fight for it.
As Phoenix exited the courtroom, the weight of the day's events pressed heavily on his shoulders. The cacophony of voices—shouting accusations, whispered doubts, and the buzz of news reporters—faded into a dull hum as he stepped into the cold void of the multiverse's twilight.
A swirl of stars and nebulas framed the surreal courthouse behind him, its impossibly tall spires reaching into a horizon that didn't exist. Heroes and villains alike were milling about outside, some exchanging heated words, others glaring at him with barely concealed disdain.
"Wright!"
The voice stopped him in his tracks. He turned to see Maya running toward him, her usual bubbly energy replaced with worry. Behind her was Miles Edgeworth, his stoic expression betraying a hint of unease.
"You survived," Maya said, breathless as she reached him. "Barely, by the looks of it."
"I feel like I've aged a decade in a day," Phoenix muttered, rubbing his temples. "This case is... impossible, Maya. I'm defending someone—something—who might not even deserve saving. And I don't know if I have what it takes to make it through."
Maya grabbed his arm, her eyes fierce. "Don't talk like that, Nick. You've faced impossible cases before and come out on top. Galactus may be, uh... a world-eating god or whatever, but he chose you. That means something, right?"
Edgeworth cleared his throat, stepping closer. "As much as it pains me to admit it, Ms. Fey is correct. You have a way of finding the truth in even the most convoluted cases. If anyone can unravel the mysteries surrounding Galactus, it's you."
Phoenix let out a dry laugh. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Edgeworth. But this isn't just about evidence or testimony. This is the fate of entire universes on the line."
Edgeworth adjusted his cravat, his expression unreadable. "Precisely why you can't afford to fail."
Phoenix sighed, looking out at the shimmering expanse of stars. In the distance, he saw Ryu and Captain America exchanging tense words, Chun-Li standing nearby with her arms crossed. The stakes were higher than he'd ever imagined, and the people counting on him were as vast and varied as the multiverse itself.
"Nick," Maya said softly, pulling his attention back to her. "We'll figure it out. We always do."
Phoenix managed a small smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I hope you're right, Maya. I really do."
As the trio began to walk away from the courthouse, the shadows of looming figures moved across the distant skyline. Somewhere in the vast multiverse, alliances were being formed, plots were being hatched, and forces beyond imagination were taking sides.
Phoenix Wright had taken the first step into the trial of his life. But as the stars glimmered faintly overhead, he couldn't shake the feeling that something far darker was on the horizon.
And so, with his briefcase in hand and doubt clouding his mind, Phoenix walked into the unknown, unaware that his fight for justice was about to transcend everything he thought he knew.
End of Chapter 1