—
Wright Law and Co. Offices
Entrance
Afternoon
—
Sae checked her map app one last time before confirming her destination. Thanking the taxi driver after giving his payment and a gracious tip, she exited the cab and walked towards Phoenix office. After twenty minutes looking over the entire detention center, Sae thought the only place the little Fey could have hidden herself is in the nearest place she could find. In that case, not the nearest since it takes a thirty-minute walk from the detention center to Phoenix office. Luckily for her, she catches a cab soon enough and it take only ten minutes to arrive at her destination. Now in front of the door, she realized the weight of her self-imposed mission and Sae wondered she could uphold the task of calming a 9-years-old child. She knew she wasn't too tactful sometimes, but she was the only one at that moment who can do that without stressing the poor girl even more. Steeling herself for the task, she took the keys Phoenix gave to her, saying at that time little Pearl probably has taken the spare key carefully hidden under the extinguisher at the hall. Sae remembered their conversation before coming at his office.
— Are you saying an eight year, now 9-year-old girl managed to knock you out? Twice?
— Yeah, I know. Lame, isn't it?
Sae chuckled.
— More like difficult to believe the veracity of your story.
Phoenix grunted annoyed.
— Yeah, try to get slapped by her and tell me what it is like. I bet you will have trouble to handle her.
— Are you betting with me? You know, personal betting isn't illegal technically, but are you sure to bet with someone who knows you well?
— I know you well enough as well, Sae. Besides, I'm sure of it since you're not the one who get slapped until unconscious.
— Let's not forget: You were got beaten twice by a little girl.
Phoenix chuckled.
— Well, you know me... *sigh* I'll solve things with Maya for now and wait for you to deal with Pearls.
— Where is she, anyway?
— Knowing her, probably she rushed back to my office. Give me your phone, I'll put the address of my office on the map app.
Sae did as Phoenix told her, and he quickly opened the map app and put his office address on it.
— Pearls probably are distracting herself, keeping the office tidy.
— You make a kid clean your office…? — Sae asked astounded.
— Pearls can be very insistent on it. Even though I try to clean the place, she insists on do it, saying: "You need to spend all the time with your Special Someone!"
Sae gave an amused giggle.
— Children... Honestly, I envy their innocence sometimes. Sometimes I wish I could be a kid again, even for a day.
— Me too. Honestly, sometimes I wish I could protect Pearl from everything.
Sae gave a sad smile at him.
— I know that. But you can't protect her from everything. You know that as much as me.
— *sigh* Yeah, I know. It just...
— I know, Phoenix, but sometimes, telling the truth is better than a beautiful lie.
Sae sighed. They had the same conversation several times, but they never went into an agreement.
— Phoenix, you can't protect her from reality. She's a child, I know that, but you can't keep her inside a bubble. You need to be honest with her when the time comes. Promise that all right?
At the previous times, Phoenix only sighed, and became silent, not giving a proper answer. Sae was waiting for the same reaction to outcome.
— Okay, I'll think about it.
Astounded to receive an answer for him, Sae lost her composure and her fierce façade fell, giving place to a nervous and thoughtful Niijima. Phoenix gave a nervous smile.
— Hey, I was thinking about it, and as much as hate to admit it sometimes...
— …"Sometimes"?
Phoenix laughed.
— Just sometimes, you have a point, Sae. I can't protect Pearls all the time. All I can is to guide her at those moments.
Sae smiled, a genuine smile.
—I should go now. She might be alone and scared right now.
— Okay. I'll be waiting for you two.
Now at the office, she wasn't so sure she could follow her own advice, but confident she could do the job, she unlocked the door and enter the office. Looking inside, she was surprised to see a neat and clean office, different from what Phoenix have told her. She chuckled to herself. Perhaps he was just exaggerating. With all the things considered, she thought of that and think he may be right, seeing now the little girl cleaning the place efficiently.
— Pearls.
Pearl dropped the broom shocked. She doesn't expect someone come at that moment at the office, especially the person in front of her.
— M-Ms. Sae! — Little Pearl said, her voice trembling with fear and shock.
— Don't worry Pearl. I came here to see if you are all right. — Sae said with a gentle smile.
— I-I see... Well, I-I-I'm o-okay!
— Are you sure? — The prosecutor asked, raising an eyebrow. Pearl sighed and became crestfallen.
— No... I'm not... Mystic Maya and Mr. Nick had a fight...
— I see...
— The worse is, Mr. Nick is right to be angry... He didn't do anything wrong, and Mystic Maya attacked him...
— I know...
— What if Mr. Nick abandon her? Or if they don't get back together? Or if they become angry at each other forever?! — The little girl said now panicking.
— Pearls.
Pearl stopped, seeing Sae kneeing, now at the same height as her. Sae extended her arms and gently embraced Pearl into a hug, caressing her head gently.
— Pearl... Don't worry about it. I'm sure both will stay be friends and both will be all right.
— B-But...
— It's okay for friends to have fights sometimes but as long as we calm down, recognize we've made our mistakes, we can forgive each other and mode on as nothing has happened.
— How can you be sure about it?
— Because Phoenix and I have our own fights as well.
— Really!? But I thought...
Sae pulled herself away enough to look at Pearl and gave her a faint smile.
— Before... Before I became friends with Phoenix. We had... several fights. Horrible fights to be honest. At that time, both him and I are different persons at that period. I was more stubborn, arrogant, merciless. And he... He was more hot-blooded as he is now. *chuckle* However, as long we met each other better, we soon realize we have several things in common, and...
Pearl smiled and she noticed Sae smiled changed to a bright one.
— I'm sure they you got back together. They are true friends, after all.
— But Mr. Nick is Mystic Maya special someone! They are more than friends!
— How can you be sure about that?
Pearl looked around, as she was about to reveal something big. She leaned at Sae ear and whispered.
— Mystic Maya has a diary. One day I found the diary and I... kind of read it.
— Pearl...
— I'm sorry! — Pearl said crying.
— Pearl, please calm down! — Sae said, avoiding getting desperate. She doesn't handle that well with crying children. — I'm not angry at you!
— N-No...?
— No. Sad, probably yes. You have invaded Maya privacy...
Pearl face twisted into a frown to hear Sae address at Maya in such an informal way, but seeing the woman face she gave up saying something rude towards her.
— …and you didn't have the proper respect for her feelings, as well for Phoenix feelings.
— B-But... They are a couple!
— Pearl... They are friends. They always have been. If Phoenix has dating her, he'll told us in the first place, won't you agree?
— B-But... — Pearl tried to argue.
— Pearl.
Sae gave a reassuring smile for Pearl, who stopped to argue.
— Pearl, I know you like to see Phoenix and Maya in a relationship, but you can't force your wishes on them. I know at your age how we can dream about people we live being together because they are friends, but you can't force that on them.
— But... They are a couple… I'm sure of it…
— I'm sorry, but they are not together, Pearl. I asked Phoenix myself about it, and he confirmed to me he's not together with Maya. And I asked that when they we were... drifted apart due to our situation, but that doesn't mean he doesn't care less for her. He loves her as a good friend, and he cherish her with all his heart.
— Really?
— Really. — Sae said. — Being honest, I kinda... Tried to use that relationship to hurt them back before we went to... good terms.
Pearl stood quiet, processing every single word of Sae.
— I do regret what I've done, and I've apologized for such behavior to him. But I don't think that will be your case.
— No, I...
— It's okay. I know I was wrong.
— No. It just... I know how it is, and I'm sorry.
— About what?
— About forcing my wishes towards Mr. Nick and Mystic Maya.
To Pearl surprised, Sae giggled in amusement.
— Pearl, it's okay. You are just a child. A child who has a lot to learn. As well me.
— You still have to learn? — Pearl asked surprised.
— Of course! Even when we become adults, we still learning about several things. I'm not an exception. As humans, we are always learning from our mistakes; and we move forward, learning from them. Pearl, there's nothing wrong in making mistakes, as long as we learn from them and don't do that again. — Sae said smiling at the girl. Pearl smiled too.
— Ms. Sae, thank you.
— You're welcome, Pearls.
Little Pearl stomach growled and both girls giggled.
— I think someone is hungry, and I haven't eaten anything since the trial. So, want to lunch with me?
— Of course, Ms. Sae! Honestly, I'm hungry too. — Pearl said giving smiling at her.
— Well then, let's go!
Sae walked towards the exit, but she stopped when she noticed when Pearl didn't follow her.
— Pearls...?
— Ms. Sae, can I ask you something?
—
Public Prosecutor's Office. Room 1202.
Miles Edgeworth Office.
Afternoon.
—
Phoenix sighed as he went towards Miles Office. Of all the places, that was the last place he expected to find Maya. Apparently, the former Demon Prosecutor have found Maya walking directionless at the town, visibly distressed and he wasn't eagled to leave the girl alone at such state, so Miles promptly took her to his office and helped the girl to calm down. During that time, Miles discretely texted Phoenix asking what happened to Maya to get in such state alone. Giving a resume of the situation, the prosecutor looked at Maya and sighed worriedly. Of all the things, it seems Wright always takes the short stack of the things, and considering the man luck, he can't help but feel pity and worry for him. Waiting for the defense lawyer to come, he was surprised to hear Phoenix wanted to meet him at the reception instead of his office, but considering the state of Maya, he could understand why.
— Do you need anything else, Ms. Fey? — Miles asked, seeing the message of Phoenix saying he was already at the building.
— No, Mr. Edgeworth, I don't need anything else... — Maya replied with a smile.
— I see. If you want, you can rest at the sofa. I usually do that sometimes when I overwork here.
— Okay. Mr. Edgeworth. By the way, where are you going? — Maya asked.
— I need to pick up some files at the Chief Prosecutor Office. I need to take them for a case I'm working with. It'll take a while, so don't mind me. — Miles lied.
— Go ahead, I'll be waiting, okay?
Miles exited the office and take the flight of stairs down to the reception of the Public Prosecutor Office. Reaching the place, he found Phoenix waiting at the reception, sitting on one of the chairs, he was trying to read the files once again, trying to get all the information he got. Miles looked visibly amused, seeing his old childhood friend so focused on the job, to the point that made him get almost worried about him. Almost. Miles cleaned his throat, calling Phoenix attention.
— Oh, hey Edgeworth... How are you doing?
— Fine… Although you don't look so well. I mean, considering your situation with miss Fey…
Phoenix sighed.
— Yeah… That was the exact situation I don't wanted to deal at that moment… — Phoenix confessed. — So, how's she?
— Visibly distressed, she was so distraught I had to take her to my office to calm her down. She's sleeping at my office.
— Thank you, Miles. I can't thank you enough for helping at this situation, even though it's not your problem.
— It's nothing. I'm willing to help any friend in need. Although, that quite make amends with our situation.
Phoenix sighed.
— Miles... You don't need to repay me anything...
— But I'm still in debt for you for what you have done. Besides, I'm doing that because you and Maya are my friends, so don't jump in conclusions.
— Fine... Sorry about that...
— So... Can you tell me what happened? — Miles asked.
Phoenix sighed as he explained what happened. For the prosecutor credit, he waited for Phoenix explain everything before saying anything. After explaining, Phoenix looked in expectance at his friend, who simply stood silent, with a blank expression at his face. Phoenix waited patiently for his friend to say something, but after five long minutes he had started to worry about his friend.
— Edgeworth... Is everything...?
Miles looked at Phoenix with a strange expression. It was an undecipherable look Phoenix tried to figure out until his friend opened his mouth, to finally say.
— Are... Are you sure about that?
That caught Phoenix off guard. He expected to Miles to insult him, or even ask if he was serious about that, not to ask to him if he was sure about the feelings of Maya towards the situation.
— Yes... I mean, that was Ms. Niijima could think about, and honestly, that's the only plausible explanation...
Miles looked at him as he was the greatest idiot in the entire world, ready to scold him.
— Look, I'm dealing with a serious case, and my focus is to get the acquittance of my client. Despite the fact I'm friends with Ms. Niijima, I didn't give any reasons to Maya behave like that. — Phoenix said, giving a stern look. Miles was still giving that look of "Are you a retard?" when Phoenix sighed tiredly. — I know, I overdid it, but at least can you see the things of my point of view? I haven't done anything wrong, and most of all, I am not at the mood to get a scold from anyone, especially from you, Mr. Unnecessary Feelings.
Miles was almost giving the lash of tongue of his life, when he realized Phoenix was right. As much he looked the greatest idiot he knows (as he is at the prosecutor opinion) he wasn't that insensitive. And he cared enough about Maya to even risking his own career, so the fact of even think he was rude to her without reason was unfunded. Of course, Phoenix had dealt with barbs, insults and even physical aggression with patience and grace, especially coming from his own friends, but even his patience had limits and considering the fact he wasn't dealing with his usual murder case made his mood and even worse. At that point Miles pondered if was even worth to scold him, especially with the fact the defense attorney was right to be outraged for only doing his job and get along with the prosecutor in charge and get roasted for doing so. Maybe his connection with Ms. Niijima might be a complicating factor at the case, but both Phoenix and Sae were acting professionally, keeping a mutual respect with each other and their respective roles and for the case. The magenta prosecutor knew he needed to take a position about that, but looking at the defense attorney in front of him, the idea of scold him and even teach him a lesson has lost all the meaning, despite the fact Maya is his friend and she has emotionally hurt after getting into a fight with her friend (and possibly love interest, although Miles wasn't sure about that being two sided). For Miles relief, Phoenix wasn't that eager to hear an answer from him, since he came back to check the files one more time.
— Phoenix.
Phoenix lifted his head, looking incredulously at the prosecutor not believing at what he has witnessed.
— Did you... Did you call me by my name? My first name, not my family name?
— Yes...
Miles sighed, taking the chair next to Phoenix and looking at the ceiling.
— Look, I'm not saying you were right. But I'm not going to say to were wrong either...
Phoenix looked at his friend and Miles couldn't help himself to remember his father giving the same look: a mix of upcoming disappointment and expectance, waiting for his answer. He father rarely gave him this look, but when he gave it, he knew that was a lost case. Miles thought on the options he had at that moment. Being sincere was out of question, considering the man in front of him was ready to give an answer at the same level, and considering Phoenix mood and usual behavior he wasn't that willing to get a reply to a level above of him. Lying was out of question as well. Phoenix could detect him lying miles away, and trying to cheer him up with an awful lie was worse than give an earnest truth, especially when the prosecutor was expecting for his friend to give a tongue lash for saying something that clearly will not add up right now. Subtle, yet precise critique sounds the most promising answer to get out of that mess, but there was a slightly chance of that backlash on him, so Miles knew he needed to adapt his tactic a little if he wanted to get out with his pride intact. Thinking carefully, he formulated the answer in his head and hoped that will work at the defense attorney in front of him.
— Well... Don't get me wrong Wright. Just because I said what I said, that doesn't mean you don't have the right to get outraged with reason. However, have you considered the fact you weren't the only one outraged? I know a case like yours can be distressing, so you're not the only one under pressure. Besides, I think you need to... err... relax... to stay calm at that matter. I know I'm not the most appropriate person to say that, but I'm worried about you and Ms. Fey. And I'm not disrespecting your reasons to become so. But, at the moment...
— Stop right there, Miles. I know where you are going with that speech of yours. You're going to say at the moment Maya is also distressed, she's dealing with a havoc in her head dealing with her feelings. But can you at least see I'm not doing this because the only reason is Sae is my friend and she asked me to take the case, because if he weren't innocent, I was going to refuse right away and explain my reasons for her. She will understand and leave it at it is, doing her job. If she had her suspicions, and called me, is because she trusts me enough to deal with this case. And after seeing the case well I have mine, that means I'm doing this because I wanted too as well. She didn't force me to do, nor even I was bribed or any bullshit like that from Masahiro part, so don't even start with that. Maya was taken way too far to say Sae wants an easy victory, and she may be my assistant, but that doesn't give her the right to do whatever she wants, or do you accept everything Franziska says and do with you?
Miles was taken aback. He didn't expect that answer from Phoenix. He knew his friend was furious, but he didn't expect for him to being that furious. But at the same time, he saw Phoenix face twist in anger, his expression quickly shifted to a guilty one.
— I'm sorry Edgeworth... I shouldn't have mentioned Franziska's name. I know you are sensitive at involving her...
Miles saw the genuine regret at his friend face and sighed. Only Phoenix to truly worry about the others before himself. In Miles opinion, he may be the greatest idiot in the planet, but he was also the wisest and selfless person he knows as well. He sighed before giving an earnest smile at his best friend.
— It's okay, and besides you're not wrong either... If she could, Franziska might have become the chief prosecutor just to give the most ridiculous orders she could think to humiliate me.
Phoenix struggled to hold a laugh, but Miles seemed to try to ease the mood, as he gave a dismissed glance looking at one point of the reception and said:
— Perhaps she will give me a butler attire to hear every day and order me to get some tea from the Gatewater Hotel.
Phoenix laughed out loud, calling everyone attention. Miles laughed along too, amused by his own self depreciation joke.
— I bet she will pay some extra to some colleagues of you to record it for posteriority, saying: "That is how you should do with an arrogant foolish fool when he doesn't make his job properly."
Miles laughed even louder.
— Man! I bet she'll make the women of the prosecutor office wear maid attire, and making everyone working for her as they were her servants, lashing them with her whip as she evilly laughs in amusement.
— Don't forget the barbs all the time! She will never stop to insult them all the time!
Both men laughed for a few minutes before recomposing themselves.
— Well... That was good...
— True... Although we drifted from the original topic.
— Yeah...
— Well... You still have a point... Maya really did overdo this time. But is it as Ms. Niijima said, Maya may be jealous of you two. Still, that doesn't justify her actions, but if that is the case, then what you will do?
Phoenix sighed again.
— Honestly... I don't know... I just trying to solve this case, but at this moment, I'm trying to stay calm to deal with Maya as well...
— Unleash your frustration at her is not the answer, although you know that well...
— Yeah... But I wish I don't need to deal with that right now...
Miles noticed the frustration taking over his friend and sighed. That case was really taking the tool of his friend, adding the fact of Maya sudden jealously and Godot questionable antics has made Phoenix work and mood worsening even more. At least Sae wasn't the usual rude prosecutor that even Miles was towards his friend, or Phoenix might want to quit the case...
— You know... Perhaps trying to convince Maya to apologize now is not a good idea. Especially at your situation...
— *sigh* You're right... Maybe I should calm down more before trying to convince her... I don't have patience to argue with her right now... — Phoenix leaned his head on the sofa cushion and stared at the celling. — Hey, Miles. Can you do me a favor?
— If that favor means of taking care of Maya and keep a rude imbecile off your tail, you don't need to ask me. As I have said, Maya is also my friend, and I don't like that Godot either.
Phoenix smirked.
— At least Sae and I aren't the only ones who doesn't go along with him...
Miles chuckled.
— Well, he pissed me off as well, so consider keeping him away a retribution and a personal task of myself. I need to stem off as well.
— Thanks Edgeworth...
— You should go after Pearl...
— Sae is with her... Speaking of both, I'm going to call her... I'm worried.
— Always the father figure...
— Can you blame me? I have two kids to deal with. — Phoenix replied with a pride smirk plastered over his face. Taking his phone, Phoenix searched for Sae number and called her. Waiting for her to answer, Phoenix looked at the files one more time trying to find anything to help with his case.
— So... How's the case going? — Miles asked.
— Aside from the havoc, everything is going well... Considering Shido minions are trying to kill my client and I probably their next target, I need to solve this with Sae faster as possible. — Phoenix replied, not leaving his gaze from the files.
— I see... Do you need help?
— Honestly yes. Miles, can you do something to keep not only my client safe, but Sae, Maya, Pearl safe? I don't want anything to happen to them.
— And what about you?
— I've dealt with worse. I'm more worried about the ones around me... And that includes you as well.
Miles chuckled.
— Always worrying about the others, putting the others well-being before yours. But don't try to be a hero on that one. That's not our usual murder case.
— I know that well Miles. That's why I'm more worried to them than me. There are better ways to threatened and even hurt me than trying to deal with me, after all, people close to you are a more effective way to pressure someone. I'm not dumb as I can appear, and I've learned my lesson after Engarde Trial.
Miles blinked surprised. Phoenix wasn't that serious and cold as he was being like now. He knew that case was taking his toll.
— Phoenix. Try to not to die. Maya and Pearl love you and they don't want to see another beloved one dead. And please, do that for me as well. I don't want to lose someone as I do considerer more than a friend. You are my brother, for me at least. I not sure if you reciprocate that, but...
Phoenix gave a light laugh, something Miles haven't seen for a while.
— Hey Miles, relax. I consider you my brother as well. It just... I'm impressed you were confessing that right now like this... You're not the type to demonstrate feelings like that.
Miles sighed.
— I'm worried. When the Engarde case happened, when Franziska get shot, I thought she was going to die, like my father had. She was alongside her sister and her mother the only family I had. I thought someone was going that day in that case. I thought you were going to break at that moment...
— The moment I had to choose between Maya and Ms. Adrian...
Miles nodded. The moment Phoenix had to decide what kind of attorney he was going to be. Both knew well and Phoenix didn't have a proper answer for that, in that day.
— But everything ended well. We survived. We won. But I wonder sometimes what would have happen if Franziska didn't show up in time...
Phoenix sighed and glanced the ceiling again.
— Honestly... At that time, I admit I was torn between choosing Maya and Ms. Andrews... I didn't know what to do... At one side, it was Pearl family... Mia's sister at the one end... Her life at the stake... And at the other side it was Ms. Andrews... It was the life of her and her mentor as well... The pain of lives that suffered and were ruined by one man... Whoever I choose, someone was going to die that day... If Engard was received the Guilty verdict, Maya will be the one to die. Her story was going to end, and things will be different. If Engard has been found innocent, Ms. Andrews was the one who's going to die, waiting for her execution at the death row, and more people will suffer at his hands. Honestly, I couldn't choose that day. — Then Phoenix snapped at Miles direction and stared at him. — But, if it was now, if I had to choose... I will choose myself to die that day.
Miles was caught in surprise hearing that.
— Don't be surprised, Miles. If I had the chance, I would convince Dekiller to switch places with Maya. I was going to concede that day. I was going to let Engard get convicted and save Maya at the cost of my own life. If I had to choose, I will make a third option. I would find a way, even if that leads to my own death... But, as long everyone's safe and the culprit being behind the bars, I will be happy with that.
— Wright...
— I know we're not heroes, Miles, neither Gods. We're mere human's beings, but can't we at least try to find a way? Try to make a miracle? I'm sure we can't do everything, but that shouldn't be an excuse to accept things the way it looks like and accept defeat. I mean, if we weren't fighting, even you wouldn't be here...
Miles nodded.
— Look, I'm not trying to rub salt at old sore wounds, but we need to keep fighting... I've learned that from you, from Mia, from Franziska, from Maya... From your father...
Miles smiled. Even after his death, Gregory Edgeworth managed to make his convictions and legacy live through not only him, but his best friend as well.
— I can't just give up. I know I'm not the best example of smartness and resilience, but even I recognize my own limitations and flaws... I'm not perfect Miles, but I should at try it, goddammit! I'm just tired of being taxed as the idiot at the defense bench. I'm more than that, and I'm myself. I'm not Mia, neither you. I'm myself and sorely that. Now I can see that well. I know I may be overconfident and even arrogant sometimes, but, well who wouldn't be? I'm just a person and nothing more. But I can't afford being like that in this case and in any other future case. Not now, not ever. I need to keep my head cooled down, stay calm and be realistic about this. I need to be sure I can at the stake and overcome everything in this case. That's not about me, neither Sae, neither my career nor anything. It's about the future of two countries, their reputation and the future of our legal system and the way Justice and the Truth is reached, found and established here. If we do whatever we want, breaking all the laws, disrespecting the proceedings and doing anything to bend the system, then anyone can do whatever they want, and we be lose the faith and respect of our institutions. We're constantly evolving, and if we don't look at the past, we were faded to repeat history once again.
Miles blinked, then smiled again.
— I didn't know you have become so wise, Wright...
— Miles, we both know I'm not that stupid, and I need to be aware of my situation now. There's more in game than me here. Failure is not an option. If we fail, they won. That's the reality.
Miles gave a chuckle.
— I'm glad you've matured...
— Well, this moron here needs to learn his lesson after all... Besides, I'm not Larry.
Miles laughed.
— I'm sure of that!
— And... I'm smarter than you...
— Right...
— I managed to graduate at Ivy University at in the Fine Arts and at Law, so I have two degrees, and honestly, with my skills I could've become a master or even a PhD if I wanted.
— Geez... I wonder why wouldn't have done that...
— Because I was more worried to save my brother from the abyss, he went into...
Miles smiled and stood up. Phoenix stood up as well and said:
— And I'm glad I could do that in time...
Miles hugged the man, surprising Phoenix, since the man neither was willing to do something that physical, neither to demonstrate his feelings at that way.
— I'm glad too. Please, don't change, okay.
— Well, I prefer to change to better, to be a better version of myself.
— Heh. I'm glad you're not willing to stop tracks...
— Hello, Sae Niijima speaking.
Both men broke their embrace visibly embarrassed, even though the person was not physically present and chuckled. With a nod, Phoenix answered Sae on the other side.
— Sae-san, it's me, Phoenix.
— Oh, Phoenix... So, any progress with Maya?
— Straight to business as always... *chuckle* No. Maya is currently asleep at Edgeworth's Office and I don't want to disturb her now. Plus, I can't help myself to get more worried about you and Pearl as well, since Maya is safe with a person of my trust and...
— I see... I managed to calm her down, and now we're going at the Japanese restaurant close to the Prosecutor Office. It's not only close, but also if anything happens, I can take Pearls to a safe place.
— Great plan. I've talked with Miles about getting a police escort for us. Also, I want to check something with you as well, if you can.
— Okay. So, are you going to wait for us here, or will you come at the restaurant?
They heard a grumble and Phoenix gave a small, embarrassed chuckle.
— I think I'll come at the restaurant... I haven't eaten anything since the adjournment of the trial...
— You better not negligence your own health and needs. I don't want you to faint in hunger around anywhere God knows.
— Yes ma'am, I'm going to eat as you ordered.
Miles and Sae laughed at Phoenix humored answer and even a confused Pearl at the other side of the call giggled as well.
— Come here, I'll pay for you lunch.
— No, I can pay it...
— No, I insist. Besides it's my turn anyway...
— Oh, right... I forgot. Perhaps some sushi?
— Conveyor belt only.
— Dammit!
Sae giggled.
— That's what you get for paying ramen last time.
— You've asked for ramen last time, and plus, we went at that delicious restaurant with I paid for the extra-large bowl for you!
— I was hungry and craving for some ramen. Besides, ramen is rather cheap, won't you agree?
— That was an expensive one, Sae!
— Well, it's your loss.
Phoenix groaned and Miles chuckled.
— Are you coming or not? — The beauty prosecutor asked.
— *sigh* Fine, I'm coming... Besides, free food.
— Good. You know where it is.
— Of course. But next time, don't expect for me to pay any expensive food. I don't forget such things that easily, Niijima.
— All because of a conveyor belt sushi? I'm disappoint with you, Wright.
— What can I say? I want to eat something with quality and expensive. Is not my fault the restaurant we went didn't have a good conveyor belt sushi.
— The one here's great, I can assure you.
— If you're lying to me...
— If you think I'm lying and I'm going to accept that quiet, you were sorely mistaken.
— I'm sure you're lying just to make me come to the restaurant already.
— Wanna bet on that?
Phoenix snickered.
— Phoenix... — Miles called, knowing that was a bad idea.
— If the sushi there is not good as you claim, you've to buy me the most expensive dish on that restaurant we went last time.
— All right then, but if I won, you have to do anything I want.
— At least is not related to the case we are dealing with right now, it's fine.
— It's a deal, then. I'm waiting for you here.
— Okay.
— And Phoenix.
— Yes, Sae? — Phoenix asked in awe, surprised for Sae address him only by his name.
— Be careful. I don't want to see you getting hurt.
Phoenix smiled with that.
"She hasn't changed at that at all..."
After she ended the call, Phoenix looked at Miles and snapped towards the entrance.
— I need to go. Pearls and Sae are waiting for me...
— I see... In that case, allow me to give you a lift to the restaurant. Besides, I haven't ate until now.
— What about Maya? — Phoenix asked worriedly.
— I told her I wouldn't take too long, but...
— Not the best idea at this moment. An emotional havoc Maya Fey with an emotional distressed Pearls and a too much stressed prosecution and defense attorney at the same place is calling to cause a storm.
— Geez... You really need to point things like that...?
— Well, if you can even make direct subtle insults and straight insults at my face on the gaze of everyone, then I'm fairly sure I'm allowed to let my sardonic side to manifest for a while. Besides... I need to let of some steam.
Miles sighed.
— Who are you and what you have done to my friend.
— Blame stress. Now where's your car? And call Maya, say to her to lock the door.
Miles sighed again but couldn't help but to chuckle. The man knew what he was doing and considering his actual situation, perhaps helping him would be the best for everyone. Remembering his words, he knew he had to play close to the border this time, but at a situation like this, they don't have much choice. And Miles was worriedly calling the usual protection might attract unwanted attention, so he knows what he needed at the moment. Making a call, he waited patiently for the person on the other side of the line to answer the call.
— Hi, Sir! Do you need something?
— Gumshoe, I need a favor, and above all, I need you to keep secrecy about this matter.
— Right, sir. So... What do you need?
Edgeworth told Gumshoe what he needed, and he heard the giant detective sigh at the other side of the call.
— Sir, are you sure about that?
— I'm sure of it. Besides, we need all the help.
— But from them? I'm sure they not going to...
— I'm sure and I know someone who can help us to get their help.
— You mean...
— Exactly.
Gumshoe stood quiet before answering.
— I hope that person can help us, Sir.
— Honestly, me too...
— Well, I'll go to make the request. That'll take some time...
— I appreciate it. Have a good day, Detective.
— You too, Sir.
Edgeworth ended the call and promptly searched over his contacts list, looking for a number he hasn't called a long time ago. He sighed as he pressed the call button and waited for the person at the other side to answer.
— Hello. It's me. I know this is sudden, and I haven't called you for a long time, but I need a favor.
—
Meiji Shore Restaurant
Afternoon
—
Phoenix and Miles were surprised to see the Japanese restaurant. Definitely that place wasn't their usual spot for reunite and eat, not like the burger joint Maya forced them to go, and not the Italian restaurant Miles loved to go as well. However, when Miles was feeling awkward to standing out there like he was a stranger from Europe going to another place in another country to eat, he noticed to his shock Phoenix walking around as he was just surprised to see that kind of place at his town, like that place was existing there the way it's supposed to be. Phoenix quickly found Sae and Pearl sitting at a table close to a giant conveyor belt that sushi was displaying winding through that part of the restaurant. He chuckled to see little Pearl trying to hold a piece of Tenmusu only to her hashis drop. He saw Sae gently chuckling as she helped the little girl to how to catch and hold her food properly.
— Like that? — Little Pearl asked. Sae nodded in agreement.
— Exactly like that. The trick is... Oh, Phoenix. And Edgeworth-san.
Pearl turned at them surprised and she smiled happily to see Phoenix again.
— Mr. Nick! And Mr. Edgeworth!
— Pearl please, eat your food first! — The three adults begged.
— O-Oh...! Sorry...
— It's okay. Just try to not get too excited and ending up dropping your food. You don't want to waste your food, right? — Sae said with a smile.
— Right! Everything is so delicious! — Pearl said with a huge smile on her face.
— I'm glad you like it! I was worried you might not like it, after all Japanese food is not too appealing for most of the people after all.
— I'm sure you'll find a way to convince Peals to try some. — Phoenix said.
— Glad to see you have faith in me. — Sae replied with a smile. — So, ready to try the sushi?
— Already? I didn't know you're so eager to lose.
— Baka ne yo! Just don't try to come all confident with me. You know way too well I play to win.
— Yeah, but that doesn't mean you haven't burn yourself a few times.
— *buffs* Do you want to eat or not?
— *chuckle* Of course I want to. I'm just savoring the moments before you lose.
— Hah, hah. Now come here.
— Yes ma'am.
Miles and Pearls chuckled at their behavior as Sae picked with her hashis a piece of sushi and Phoenix leaned to eat. Once he ate the sushi and chewed his eyes widened in surprise and he looked at, Sae, who had a proud smirk on her face. Phoenix swallowed the food and smiled at Sae.
— So? How was it? — Sae asked.
— You were right... It's delicious. — Phoenix replied. — Geez... Can't believe I've lost...
— Told you. Although our experience at that conveyor belt at that restaurant wasn't that good, so I need to concede that point to you.
— So... I owe you a wish...
— That's correct. Although...
Sae stood quiet, thinking about it.
— You know you don't need to ask me right away, right?
— I know, but...
Sae smirked became sharp and Phoenix started to chuckle nervously.
— …I think it'll better if I think thoroughly about my wish. Just you wait, Wright, because I don't want to hear any complain and any refusal. Got that?
Phoenix gave a sharp smirk as response.
— As you wish, Niijima.
Pearls looked at them and she sighed.
— Is everything okay with you Pearls? — Phoenix asked worriedly, looking at the little girl, seeing if something was wrong with her.
— N-No! It's just...
Pearls started to bite her thumbnail and Phoenix knew something was wrong.
— Pearls?
— It's okay, Phoenix. Pearls is just a little thoughtful isn't that, right?
— Right!
Phoenix noticed Pearls sudden change of behavior. She was more comfortable towards Sae and Sae was helping her, indicating Pearls and Sae was getting along better than he thought.
— All right them, let's eat. And we should bring some to Maya after we finish.
— Are you sure Mr. Nick? — Pearl asked worriedly. — Perhaps Mystic Maya...
Phoenix facepalmed himself. Of course, he didn't have thought that.
— Yeah, that was stupid of me... Perhaps we should buy some burgers for her...
— Burgers...? — Sae asked confused.
— Mystic Maya loves burgers! She eats lots of them! — Pearls said with a smile.
Sae shook her head.
— She needs to eat properly if she wants to keep a healthy lifestyle. Of course, it doesn't hurt eat one once in a while, but... How many she usually does eat?
— Around a dozen of burgers... — Phoenix replied, feeling not so sure of answering the platinum-haired woman question.
— Dozen? More like two dozen and...
Miles stopped tracks as he saw Sae face twisting in a weird mix of shock and outrage. She shifted at looking at the little medium and the two men before locking her gaze at Pearls with a worried face.
— Pearls... Does Maya eat that amount of burgers...?
— Maybe... I always lost the count after the third... — Pearl admitted, and Sae buffed.
— That's not a healthy example for Pearls! You should impose some limits to her Phoenix.
Phoenix sighed.
— We already had that conversation and trust me, I've tried. She just doesn't listen to me.
Sae rubbed her temples in annoyance.
— I can see clearly why you can't argue back...
Pearl looked worried towards the adults and sighed.
— Is that... my fault...?
— NO! — The three adults yelled, scaring the poor Pearls and making them became more worried. — Sorry! We didn't mean to scare you, Pearls!
— It's okay... I guess... — Pearl said now confused.
— We didn't mean to scare you, neither to confuse you Pearls, it's just... You know I can't exactly argue against Maya, especially when you join her. — Phoenix said, running his hand over his head nervously. To their relief, Pearls just giggled.
— That's true, Mr. Nick. Sae-san said you can't argue against us!
— That's quite the challenge, won't you agree, Phoenix? — Sae asked in a teasing tone.
— Hah. Hah. Very funny, Sae-san. You know that well I can't argue against my little sisters. Plus, I remember you were complaining about you can't complain with Makoto, so don't come at me all cocky just because I'm now suffering the same situation you've suffered in... two, three years ago.
— Baka ne yo! Really? You're going to rub an old spot right now?
— It wasn't like you weren't doing the same...
— True, but there's a difference.
— What difference our situations has?
— You know exactly what I mean.
— Right... But that's not an excuse to rub the facts on my face.
— Ha! So, you do admit that's a fact!
— So do you. Besides, you can't use that card against me, and you know why.
Sae pouted.
— That's unfair, you know?
— It's unfair the fact you're using those facts against me. But that doesn't matter for you, huh?
— Of course, it matters! It just... Fine. I concede that to you. This time.
Both Phoenix and Sae smirked to each other before exchange a handshake.
— Well, time to eat. Me and Miles haven't eaten anything. — Phoenix said with a wry smile.
— I hope you like Tempura. — Sae said with a smirk.
— You know well I love Tempura. Seriously, can't argue with vegetables. Depending on how they are prepared they can be very delicious. Hope you like some Tempura as well, Pearls.
— I've ate a little. I like it! — Pearls said with a wide smile. Phoenix chuckled as he sat with the little girl and waited for Miles and Sae to join them. Phoenix picked up some portions and waited for Miles to make his own plate.
— Itadakimasu! — Phoenix said clapping his hands. Miles looked at him in an odd way and Phoenix sighed. — It's normal for thanking for the food, Edgeworth. I thought that stupid samurai show had taught you that.
— GAWK! WRIGHT! Don't dare to mock the Steel Samu—
— Do you actually like that imprecise and inaccurate children show, Mr. Edgeworth? Are you kidding me? — Sae asked in pure disbelief as she looked inside her wallet.
— Wright!? Did you tell her about my—
— About your guilty pleasure since your childhood, yeah, I did. That's not a secret, you know? Everybody knows, and when I told Sae she couldn't believe in me.
— Can't believe I have lost one thousand dollars just because you like that stupid show... — Sae said paying the amount to Phoenix who just quickly spelled a thank you as he put the money inside his pocket as he keeps eating his food.
— What? — Both Sae and Phoenix asked.
— Did you two just... Just bet on me?
— Course. Is that illegal? — Sae asked, smirking devilish. Miles smirked as well as he looked at Phoenix.
— That's rather funny, considering your tastes, Mr. Wright...
— Are you talking about that puppet show? I watched once. I think the level of crafting of the puppets and the entire shows should be most appreciated, you know?
Miles stood quiet, visibly flabbergasted.
— That's a nightmare... That's a nightmare and I'm still dreaming...
Phoenix stood up and went at Miles and pinched his arm, making the magenta prosecutor jump from his seat.
— Why did you do that? — Miles asked surprised.
— To show you're not dreaming. Is that wrong to Sae-san to like simple things? — Phoenix asked, not bothering to show he was annoyed.
— But...
— I like action movies, especially the one starting by Bruce Lee and other martial artists. Do you have any problem with that? — Sae asked, looking at Miles.
— Am I hallucinating...? — Miles mumbled in disbelief.
— No, you're not. — Sae and Phoenix replied. — You said that out loud...
Miles blinked and he sighed in defeat.
— You two are terrible together, you know that?
— Yeah, we know. The Judge of that trial told us that. — Phoenix answered with a sharp smirk.
— *sigh* I wish I haven't known you sometimes...
— And let me get falsely accused of stealing your lunch? That's not of your nature, Miles.
— Yeah, right...
— Really Miles, don't go saying something stupid like that. You know well what will happen if...
Silence prevailed at that moment and Sae sighed in annoyance.
— Geez, enough of that depressing mode. We're here to eat, okay? Besides, there's no point in dwelling on the past. We need to focus on the present and now we're trying to solve a giant case.
— True... But I prefer to relax and forget that case for now... I prefer to keep my focus on this delicious Tempura, and honestly, this dish is so delicious, I simply can't spot eating.
Pearl and Sae chuckled.
— Man, you really miss some health food, huh?
— I mean, I love eat health food. Honestly, I'm not a fan of burgers...
Pearl giggled.
— And neither Pearls too.
— Yeah, but please, don't tell Mystic Maya! — She whispered to Sae and Miles. Both nodded and the little medium giggled.
— But I need to admit, even the food I made sometimes it's not delicious like the one in this restaurant.
— Do you cook, Mr. Nick? — Pearls asked surprised.
— Yes, I do! But I just cook for me, since Maya doesn't eat many vegetables, so... — Phoenix replied with a wide grin.
— Can... Can you cook something for me? I mean...
— Of course, Pearls. Anything you want, okay?
— Okay!
Sae looked at Pearls and smiled.
— Well, since we're talking about food, can I talk about the time my little sister and I went to a ramen shop at Ogikubo? — The platinum-haired woman asked smiling.
— O-ki-cu-bo?
— Ogikubo. — Sae gently corrected Pearls. — That's a district from my hometown, Tokyo. There's a ramen shop which is the most delicious place you can go to eat, at least for me. Maybe the next time I go back to Japan, I will bring you and your cousin and Phoenix to come to Ogikubo to eat with me.
— Really?!
— Really. I promise that.
— Okay! Remember, you've promised!
Sae smiled and turned her attention at the other lawyers.
— You shouldn't promise that, Ms. Niijima... — Miles scolded.
— I know what I am doing. — Sae replied.
— Sae-san, tell me more about the time you went at the ramen-shop! — Pearls said bouncing on her feet. Sae giggled.
Then the black suited prosecutor talked about her time in Japan, eating ramen with her friends and her sister. She told about the time she spends the time enjoying her time with her beloved ones. After a while, Phoenix shared some stories of him as well and Pearls laughed in amusement hearing their stories.
— Never thought that happened to you. — Miles commented holding his laugh.
— I also never think you had a lot of fun stories Mr. Nick! — Pearls replied with a smile.
— Well, I usually don't tell them because...
— Let me guess: Mystic Maya doesn't seem fun of it.
Pearl giggled.
— Really? Does Maya see you just as an old man? — Sae asked worriedly.
— Honestly, it doesn't surprise me, since it's Phoenix we're talking about...
Sae looked at Pearl and especially at Miles incredulously. She pointed at Phoenix and asked:
— Are we talking about the same person?
Miles couldn't help but to laugh.
— I'm afraid we're talking about the same person, Ms. Niijima. — Miles said with a proud smirk.
— Guess you truly doesn't know well your best friend them...
— What?
— I mean, how you define your best friend?
— Er... He's loyal.
— And?
Phoenix chuckled. That was going to be a long talk. He looked at Pearls and winked at her.
— Keep an eye on those two, okay. I'll finish to eat here.
— Okay.
— Guys, can you pay the bill. I'm almost finished.
— Okay. And? Come on, you can't think he's just luckily.
— Luckily and dumb.
— Really? That's you think about the guy...
Sae, Miles and Pearls left the table and Phoenix couldn't help but to smile at them. When he finished, Phoenix stood up to leave the table, when something called his attention. Something he noticed just now. It was a piece of paper, but he knew something on that paper was wrong. He picked up and he saw it was a letter. Phoenix knew it was wrong to read, but at that moment, he felt something important was written there and he simply couldn't afford to let something important to get out of control. He read the letter and he simply went into shock, seeing the contends of the letter. He knew at that point he needed to do something, but seeing how things were going, Phoenix knew he needed to proceed carefully. He sighed as he put the letter inside his pocket, and he simply looked at Pearls with worry. He truly hoped that wasn't the thing it is.