Rise from the Ashes - Transcript - Part 1



Episode 5 Rise from the Ashes

Phoenix:

It's been two months since Maya left the office... Two months without a single trial. I've had offers... But none I took. That is... until the day that girl showed up.

February 22, 10:02 AM Wright & Co. Law Offices

Phoenix:

(Why do I come here to the office every day? It's not like I want to work...)

???:

There you are! Finally! Where have you been!? My sister's trial is tomorrow!

Phoenix:

... ... Um... who are you?

???:

It doesn't matter who I am! It only matters who YOU are! You're the famous defense attorney, Mia Fey!

Phoenix:

...

???:

...

Phoenix:

...

???:

Oh, uh... You're not Mia Fey, are you?

Phoenix:

I'm sorry, but Ms. Mia Fey no longer... works here.

???:

So you are...? The coffee boy?

Phoenix:

I'm Phoenix Wright... A defense attorney.

???:

Wright... Wright... Wait! You're THE Phoenix Wright!? The Phoenix Wright from the Edgeworth murder case !?

Phoenix:

Um, yes, that's correct. (It wasn't Edgeworth who was murdered, though...)

???:

That's a relief then! You're better than nobody!

Phoenix:

I'm sorry... I'm afraid I'm not taking cases right now.

???:

But, you are Phoenix Wright, right? The undefeated defense attorney?

Phoenix:

Look, I'm not accepting any new cases. I'm sorry, but you'll have to try elsewhere.

???:

Please! I'm out of time!

Phoenix:

But...

???:

Please, you have to help! I-it's my sister!

Phoenix:

...! (Maya...? Could it be...?) ... Okay. I'll hear you out.

???:

R-really!? Thank you so much! My name's Ema, Ema Skye. I'm a scientific investigator.

Phoenix:

(Scientific investigator?)

February 22 Detention Center Visitor's Room

Ema:

...

Phoenix: (Hmm, I wonder what's wrong with Ema? She got quiet all of a sudden as soon as we arrived.)

???:

Guard... I thought I told you I didn't want visitors.

Guard:

S-s-s-sorry, ma'am! It's j-j-just, your sister...

???:

No excuses! Or did you not want a raise this year, hmm?

Guard:

U-u-u-understood, ma'am!

Phoenix:

(Wh-wh-wh-what was that all about?)

Ema:

H-hi, Lana.

???:

Funny. I seem to remember specifically telling you NOT to come here. Perhaps my memory is failing?

Ema:

L-look... I didn't want to come here either, okay? But your trial's tomorrow and you still don't have a defense attorney!

???:

I'll be the one in court tomorrow. This has nothing to do with you, Ema. Isn't that right, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

Hey! How do you know me?

???:

Mia mentioned you. I've heard... quite a bit.

Phoenix:

Er, I'm sorry. What exactly is it that you do...?

???:

My name is Lana, Lana Skye.

Lana:

I'm Chief Prosecutor for this district.

Phoenix:

Y-you're a prosecutor!? (Two sisters... one a lawyer. Could this be a coincidence? Ema... Lana... I mean, they're just like...)

Ema:

Is something wrong, Mr. Wright?

(Clearing all "Talk" options leads to:)

Lana:

Well, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

E-excuse me?

Lana:

As you can plainly see, I am admitting my guilt. I think it's safe to say... there's no way you can take this case. None.

Ema:

B-but, Lana!

Lana:

...

Ema:

You... you were always this way, weren't you? You never think of anyone but yourself.

Lana:

...!

Ema:

I know you didn't do it, Lana, I know! So... So how can you say you did!?

Lana:

...

Ema:

If I lose you... I'll be all alone! I... I hate you, Lana!

Lana:

... Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

Y-yes?

Lana:

I believe our discussion here is ended. The rest... I leave to you.

Phoenix:

...! Um... you mean, you're requesting my services as your defense?

Lana:

Don't lose any sleep over it. Your client has confessed, after all. The case is over.

Phoenix:

Right... I'll do what I can to get to the bottom of this.

Lana:

...

Phoenix:

(Lana has confessed to the crime, yes... But something doesn't fit. It's that look in Ema's eyes. There's something else going on here... and I'm going to find out what!)

(Wright & Co. Law Offices)

Ema:

I'm sorry, Mr. Wright.

Phoenix:

Huh? About what?

Ema:

My sister... She's not always like that you know.

Phoenix:

... I just never expected to be defending another prosecutor again.

Ema:

She's changed a lot. She used to be so gentle, always smiling. Everybody liked her.

Phoenix: I see... (Sorry, but I'm having trouble imagining that.) What happened to her?

Ema:

I don't know for certain myself... I think maybe she... Well, maybe not.

Phoenix:

(Sounds like there's something there that defies a simple scientific explanation.) Let's go check out this underground parking at the Prosecutor's Office, shall we?

Ema:

O-Okay!

February 22 Prosecutor's Office Underground Parking Lot

Phoenix:

So this is the lot where it all happened?

Ema:

Looks like they're still investigating...

Phoenix:

(Funny that my first visit to the Prosecutor's Office should be like this...)

Ema:

Hey everyone! Keep up the good work!

Phoenix:

H-hey! What are you thinking?

Ema:

Well, they are going to be my coworkers three years from now after all. No harm in saying hello...

Phoenix:

Actually, there is. You know attorneys aren't supposed to examine crime scenes?

Phoenix:

I'm trying to not stand out too much, here, see?

???:

Hey there! You 'specting to go unnoticed here, pardner?

Ema:

P-Pardner?

???:

What do we have here? Looks like a bambina got loose from the ranch and is up to no good! Folks gotta learn to keep them dogies tied down, pardner.

Ema:

M-Mr. Marshall!

Phoenix:

(Marshall? Looks more like a sheriff to me...)

???:

Lookie here, bambina. I know how you feel. But this is my gang's gold strike, see?

Ema:

Strike...?

???:

This is our claim, our territory. And the goldmine is... evidence. If you're fixin' to mess with what's ours... You'll regret it, pardner! You know what dreams the cacti out in the desert dream? You want to?

Phoenix:

(What's this guy talking about!?)

???:

You head along home now. Happy trails, bambina!

Phoenix:

...

Ema:

...

Phoenix:

Was that uh, hombre, a friend of yours?

Ema:

Uh... kind of... sort of... Yeah. He's a detective.

Phoenix:

(Who thinks he's a sheriff from the Wild West it seems.)

(Examining Wallet and right side leads to:)

???:

Excuse me? Were you two all set?

Ema:

Us?

Phoenix:

(What's this? She couldn't be...)

Ema:

Y-you're selling lunches? Here? This is a crime scene!

???:

Hello! Half n' Half, was it?

Ema:

Oh. Uh, thanks.

???:

And you, sir?

Phoenix:

Y-yes?

???:

Some Crunchy Goodness coming at you!

Phoenix:

Uh... thanks. (Interesting way of doing business.)

???:

This area is off limits to anyone without clearance. Especially passers-by. Or are you officers?

Ema:

Uh... no, but you... You don't exactly look like the type to have clearance.

???:

Well, that's hardly a way to greet someone! Even if my days as the "Cough-up Queen" are over...

Phoenix:

C-cough-up? Huh?

Ema:

You know, I'm feeling kind of full. Maybe I'll pass on lunch...

???:

I'm quite connected to this case, you see. The images are burned into my eyes, you might say. Yes, all the sordid secrets...

Ema:

Secrets...?

???:

Dear me. You are a slow one, aren't you? I'm referring to the murder. The stabbing of that detective.

Phoenix:

Whaaaat!?

-

Lana:

A witness clearly saw me committing the crime.

-

Ema:

You mean you're the witness my sister was talking about?

Phoenix:

Please! Cough-up Queen! Tell us what happened!

Angel:

The name is Angel Starr. Don't you go forgetting it. Or before you know it I'll have you whimpering at my heels.

Phoenix:

Y-y-yes, ma'am! (Yipes! She means it!)

(Wright & Co. Law Offices)

February 22 High Prosecutor's Office Room 1202

Ema:

This... this is quite the place.

Phoenix:

You can say that again.

Ema:

But, you know Mr. Wright, you could do your office up like this too! All you need is money and a little design sense...

Phoenix:

I'm not doing so well in either of those areas.

Ema:

In any case, it looks like the prosecutor is out.

Phoenix:

Let's come back later.

(Prosecutor's Office - Underground Parking Lot)

February 22 High Prosecutor's Office Room 1202

Ema:

This is the kind of room that just screams "I can do the job." Quite a change from your office, really.

Phoenix:

Thanks.

Ema:

Look, look! There's a trophy or something here!

Phoenix:

(A trophy ? What, that shield?)

Ema:

It takes real nerve to display stuff like this. Whoever's office this is, he must be a real stuck-up jerk!

???:

Mr. Phoenix Wright... You never tire of prying into other people's business, do you?

Phoenix:

(That voice...!) Long time, no see, Edgeworth.

Ema:

Huh? Aaaaaaaaaaaaah! M-M-Mr. Edgeworth!

Phoenix:

...! You know him from somewhere?

Ema:

O-of course! I'm his biggest fan! My sister introduced us once, and...

Phoenix:

(Right... her sister was the Chief Prosecutor, after all.)

Edgeworth:

Well? What brings you here? I'll warn you... I've been known to be a real stuck-up jerk...

Ema:

N-no! Did I...? No! It was just, Mr. Wright here, he...

Phoenix:

Hey! Don't blame me!

Ema:

W-we're just here to investigate a murder case!

Edgeworth:

Murder...?

Ema:

A body was found in this nasty, bright red sports car in the parking lot...

Edgeworth:

Hmm? That would be my car. What of it?

Ema:

Whaaaaaaaaaaaa!? Y-y-y-your car!?

Phoenix:

(I'll say one thing, she certainly can scream.)

???:

Um...! Excuse me! But is Mr. Edgeworth, uh... anywhere on the premises?

Edgeworth:

I'm Edgeworth. What is it?

Officer:

I'm here, sir, at the request of the Chief, sir! I've got your report, sir!

Edgeworth:

Report? What? Did you find new evidence in the case against Chief Prosecutor Skye!?

Phoenix:

(I don't like the way this conversation is going at all...)

Officer:

Er... Skye, sir? No, sir! No name of that kind, sir! Not in this report, sir!

Edgeworth:

...!

Phoenix:

(I think I just heard Edgeworth's lid blow.)

Ema:

Mr. Edgeworth's lid isn't on very tight, is it?

Edgeworth:

I made a clear request to the Police Department, did I not? I need to focus on the trial tomorrow, so don't bring me anything unrelated!

Officer:

Sir! But, but sir! I'm just following orders, sir! They told me to bring this to you! I wasn't aware of the peculiars of your arrangement with us, sir!

Edgeworth:

Give me your name!

Meekins:

U-uh, yes... yes, Sir! M-M-Meekins, sir. Officer Meekins!

Edgeworth:

Right. Officer Meekins? Take your report and leave. And good luck with that raise next month.

Meekins:
 * whimper* B-but, sir, I d-didn't know!

Phoenix:

(Poor guy. Looks like he was absent on the day they gave out brains and good luck.)

Edgeworth:

Wright.

Phoenix:

Y-yes, sir!? (Gah! He caught me off guard!)

Edgeworth:

As you can see, I'm busy. You may leave now.

Ema:

L-let's do as he says, Mr. Wright!

Edgeworth:

The victim was a detective from the same department as that patrolman just now. Go down to the Police Department. You can ask more there.

Phoenix:

U-uh... Thanks. (He seems to have finally calmed down at least.)

(Prosecutor's Office - Underground Parking Lot)

February 22 Police Department Entrance

Ema:

Whew... We're finally here. Why would they put the detectives so far away from the Prosecutor's Office?

Phoenix:

That took almost 30 minutes by taxi... and traffic wasn't even that bad. This is my first time to the Police Department, actually. ? Hold on, what's that?

Ema:

Disturbing! Why does it undulate like that?

Phoenix:

Oh, wait I know. This is the "Blue Badger." They're trying to make him the police mascot.

Ema:

Wow, Mr. Wright! You know a lot about the Police Department! Still, he does seem familiar, somehow...

Phoenix:

Forget the Blue Badger! Who's that next to him!?

Ema:

Someone appears to be... dancing with the Blue Badger... Uh oh. He noticed me.

Phoenix:

He sure is running over here fast...

Gumshoe:

H-h-h-hey, pal! W-w-w-what're you doin' here!?

Phoenix:

That's my line, Detective Gumshoe. Specifically, why were you dancing over there?

Gumshoe:

What!? Um, well...

Phoenix:

(Well, at least he doesn't seem to be busy. This is our chance to get information!)

Gumshoe:

Hey! I'll have you know I'm a very busy man, pal.

(Examining Blue Badger and clearing all "Talk" options leads to:)

Gumshoe:

... And that's all I know about that. I'm not officially on the case, you know.

Ema:

Thank you!

Phoenix:

Why aren't you handling the case, Detective Gumshoe? We met the guy who is... what was his name? The guy in the parking lot...

Gumshoe:

That'd be Officer Marshall. He was appointed directly by the Chief of Police...

Phoenix:

Officer Marshall... Is he some kind of Wild West sheriff or something?

Gumshoe:

No, Jake Marshall's just a regular officer... From West LA.

Phoenix:

For a moment there, I wasn't sure.

Gumshoe:

Look, pal, let me try to make things a little easier for you. Show them this and they'll let you examine the crime scene... maybe.

Letter of Introduction from Detective Gumshoe added to the Court Record.

Phoenix:

(I'll be surprised if this gets us anywhere...)

Gumshoe:

Just act like you're supposed to be there, and nobody will look at you twice, pal!

February 22 Prosecutor's Office Underground Parking Lot

Phoenix:

(Looks like the investigation is still going...)

???:

I have to be getting back to the shop...

???:

Sorry... Looks like I'll be stuck in this pit 'til the sun sleeps.

???:

I'll see you in my dreams tonight, then, baby.

Angel:

Oh! Still here?

Ema:

Ah, h-hello.

Angel:

Why the surprised looks? Didn't I mention...? I've got a boyfriend in Criminal Affairs, too.

Phoenix:

(What happened to the security guard!?)

Marshall:

Hey! What's wrong, bambina? You're lookin' like a dogie that's lost its herd!

Phoenix:

(Jake Marshall... Strange guy to put in charge of a crime scene.)

Phoenix:

Would you mind reading this for me?

Marshall:

What's this? I warn you, fan letters to me go right in the spittoon!

Phoenix:

It's a letter of introduction from Detective Gumshoe. May we investigate?

Marshall:

Gumshoe...? Ah, that old cowdog? Hmm... He holding a birthday party or something?

Phoenix:

Huh?

Marshall:

Look, where it should say letter of "introduction"... It says "invitation."

Phoenix:

Ah... I think he just miswrote it. (Great, Detective Gumshoe. I owe you one...)

Marshall:

No worries. This proves it's from Detective Gumshoe, better than a blood test. Guess I'd better let you in, then.

Ema:

Th-thank you, Officer Marshall!

Phoenix:

(Officer Marshall isn't a "detective"... he's a "patrolman"... That reminds me of something...)

Ema:

That is odd! Isn't a crime scene supposed to be handled by a detective or higher?

Marshall:

Well, folks. The clues are calling! Welcome to our gold strike. Be like the settler! Strike out for lands unknown! Manifest Destiny! Let's have a hootenanny!

Ema:

Note to self: police investigations are like settling land. Well, Mr. Wright, what do you say!?

Phoenix:

(I say I won't be needing this anymore...)

Detective Gumshoe's Letter of Introduction crumpled and discarded.

(Examining Cell phone and Trunk and clearing all "Talk" options leads to:)

Ema:

So, well, how are we doing, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

I guess we got some clues... We have an autopsy report, a note from the victim, and a cell phone...

Ema:

So... you think we'll be okay?

Phoenix:

Well, the only thing still bothering me is that Lana is confessing to the crime. She says she did it!

Ema:

No problem! I can guarantee that she's not the criminal.

Phoenix:

Oh by the way, Ema?

Ema:

Yes?

Phoenix:

I know that song your phone plays when it rings...

Ema:

What...?

Cellular:

...

Cellular:

*beep*

Phoenix:

It's the Steel Samurai theme song, isn't it? That popular TV show... for kids?

Ema:

...!

Phoenix:

The phone that just rang wasn't mine... it was yours. At 5:18, just after the murder took place... Your sister called you, didn't she, Ema?

Ema:

I...I'm sorry!

Phoenix:

Can you tell me what you talked about?

Ema:

I... She hung up right away.

Phoenix:

I see...

Cell Phone added to the Court Record.

Phoenix:

(A detective is murdered, and the suspect is the top prosecutor in the district. I've got a bad feeling about this... Like... maybe I still don't know everything that went on here...) To be continued.

February 23, 9:34 AM District Court Defendant Lobby No. 2

Lana:

How did the investigation go yesterday, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

Frankly, there are still a lot of... gray areas.

Ema:

Or rather, the whole thing is one big gray area...

Lana:

Don't worry about me, no matter what the outcome. I'm ready to accept my fate.

Ema:

I believe in you, sis.

Lana:

Mr. Wright, let me offer you a word of advice.

Phoenix:

Yes?

Lana:

A defense attorney should never "believe" their client.

Ema:

...!

Lana:

The defendant is called to trial because they are suspected of wrongdoing! Never forget that.

Phoenix:

Ms. Skye, you... You remind me a lot of Mia. But there is one decisive difference between you and her.

Lana:

And that is?

Phoenix:

You're not a defense attorney.

Lana:

... I believe it's almost time for the trial. Good luck, Mr. Wright.

Phoenix:

(My first trial without a Fey helping me... No one's going to bail me out this time... I'll be alone in there... So I have to discover the truth all by myself!)

Ema:

Let's do it, Mr. Wright! I'll be with you the whole way!

February 23, 10:00 AM District Court Courtroom No. 9

Judge:

The court is now in session for the trial of Ms. Lana Skye.

Phoenix:

The defense is ready, Your Honor.

Edgeworth:

The prosecution has been ready for a while, Your Honor.

Phoenix:

(Edgeworth... I haven't been in court since Edgeworth's trial... It's been a while now.)

Edgeworth:

I hope that personal feelings will not be a part of the proceedings today, Mr. Wright.

Phoenix:

...!

Edgeworth:

I will choose the path I think is right, regardless of what those around me might say. The judgment to be made here is in our hands, not those of anyone else.

Judge:

Very well, Mr. Edgeworth, your opening statement please.

Edgeworth:

Chief Prosecutor Lana Skye has committed an unpardonable crime. Not only this, but she was rash enough to commit it in the Prosecutor's Office lot!

Ema:

Wow... He's much more forceful in person. I suddenly feel like confessing to everything!

Edgeworth:

However, she will now pay for her rashness with her life. There was a witness to her crime... A "professional" witness!

Judge:

Well then, call your first witness, Mr. Edgeworth!

Edgeworth:

The prosecution calls its first witness, Ms. Angel Starr, to the stand.

Phoenix:

(The "Cough-up Queen"...?)

Judge:

Hmm? Haven't I seen you somewhere...?

Angel:

You ordered the Caviar Lunch, right?

Judge:

Ho ho! Caviar! I've never eaten caviar before!

Phoenix:

(The judge is really wolfing it down...)

Angel:

Ah, and for you... I have a Fiesta Bowl.

Phoenix:

Uh... thanks.

Edgeworth:

Will the witness state her name and profession?

Angel:

Ah, and you, sir... Did you order "The Fingerprint" lunchbox?

Edgeworth:

It is too early for lunch. Your name and profession, please.

Angel:

... Well, Your Honor? How does it taste?

Judge:

So this is why everyone raves about caviar! It's so tasty it hurts! I always thought caviar would taste like pickled tapioca.

Phoenix:

(What the heck does pickled tapioca taste like!?)

Edgeworth:

Name. Profession. Now.

Angel:

Me? The name is Angel Starr. Don't go forgetting it. I find myself running Lunchland these days. Is... that what you wanted me to say, Mr. Edgeworth?

Edgeworth:

Very well, witness. Please describe the incident to us.

Judge:

The prosecution will wait! I'm not finished eating...

Phoenix:

(Hurry it up!)

Judge:

Mmmm... Very well, Mr. Edgeworth. As you know, we usually call on the police to provide a description of the crime...

Angel:

Your Honor, as Mr. Edgeworth has said to the court... I am a... "professional."

Judge:

Uh... Huh? What exactly does that mean?

Edgeworth:

Until two years ago, Ms. Angel Starr was a special investigator with the police. She was a first-rate homicide detective.

Ema:

Wh-whaaaat!? Ms. Starr was a detective!?

Judge:

... Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa-hah! I-I know who you are!!! Cough-up...!?

Angel:

Cough-up Queen Angel Starr, Your Honor. Long time no see.

Judge:

V-v-very well! Y-you may continue with the description, Ms. Starr!

Phoenix:

(Just who is this lady!?)

Angel:

If I might have the court's attention over here... The parking lot at the Prosecutor's Office is divided into two blocks. A Block is for the Prosecutor's Office personnel. B Block is for visitors and clients... A chain divider separates the two blocks.

Judge:

I suppose that's to keep visitors from taking up prosecutor's spaces, yes.

Angel:

The crime took place by a car in the back of A Block, in the car's trunk. The killer stabbed the victim with a knife and went to drive the body out. Unfortunately for her there was a witness, and an arrest was made on the spot.

Judge:

And who was this valiant "witness"...?

Angel:

Why, it was me, Your Honor.

Floor Plans added to the Court Record.

Judge:

Witness, did you see the very moment of the crime?

Angel:

Of course, Your Honor. Immediately after that, I apprehended the Chief Prosecutor.

Judge:

Hmm... It seems rather cut and dry, doesn't it? Well, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

Uh... I can't agree on principle, Your Honor.

Angel:

It seems that some poor losers are unwilling to accept the truth, Your Honor. Shall I proceed to crush what little hope they have remaining?

Judge: If you can... Then give them your worst, Ms. Starr!

Phoenix:

(Wait, are they talking about me...!?)

Witness Testimony

- - Witness's Account - -

Angel:

Somehow, I always knew a day like this would come. I was on my way to deliver a lunchbox to my boyfriend... When I sensed something... perhaps it was my finely-honed detective instincts working. Then, through a wire fence, I saw the chief prosecutor standing next to a garish car. The chief prosecutor was holding a knife in her right hand.... Then, she thrust the pointy tip of the knife into Detective Goodman's chest!

Judge:

Hmm... Bringing a lunchbox to your boyfriend? How touching!

Edgeworth:

Hmph. As you can see... There is no room for doubt.

Judge:

The key "point" of your testimony seems to be nothing other than... the point of the knife which you saw being stabbed into Detective Goodman!

Angel:

So... how does it feel to be so utterly crushed?

Phoenix:

I... I'm still thinking about that.

Ema:

I-it's merely a flesh wound, Mr. Wright!

Judge:

Very well, Mr. Wright. You may cross-examine the witness.

Cross Examination

- - Witness's Account - -

Angel:

Somehow, I always knew a day like this would come.

Angel:

I was on my way to deliver a lunchbox to my boyfriend...

Angel:

When I sensed something... perhaps it was my finely-honed detective instincts working.

Angel:

Then, through a wire fence, I saw the chief prosecutor standing next to a garish car.

Angel:

The chief prosecutor was holding a knife in her right hand....

Angel:

Then, she thrust the pointy tip of the knife into Detective Goodman's chest!

Angel:

The murder was planned! The rubber gloves prove it!

Ema:

I-it's only a flesh wound, Mr. Wright! We can make it!

Phoenix:

You said that before. Anything else?

Ema:

Scientifically speaking... Ms. Starr's testimony... is flawless.

Phoenix:

(Sounds pretty fatal to me.)

Ema:

Wh-what do we do!? Is this it? Is my sister guilty!?

Phoenix:

Let's just keep our heads cool and press the witness a bit, shall we? (For some reason, having her panicking next to me makes me calmer...)

Ema:

D-don't smile like that!

Phoenix:

Witness, do you know what this is?

Angel:

Are you trying to test me? I sell box lunches for a living, you know. That's a knife. THE knife. The knife that was in Mr. Edgeworth's trunk!

Edgeworth:

Indeed, it is my knife.

What's with this case!?

The bloody murder weapon a red car... all belonging to the prosecutor there!?

The defendant is the chief prosecutor for the district, right?

Mommy, are prosecutors bad people?

Phoenix:

The defense has a request. We ask that the witness provide an ACCURATE testimony.

Angel:

What's that, Rookie?

Phoenix:

In your testimony... You stated that Lana Skye planned this murder. And that's why she was wearing those special gloves.

Judge:

Seems like a natural conclusion to me! The gloves do indicate planning...

Phoenix:

However! Why would she not also prepare the most important thing... the murder weapon !?

Angel:

Oh.

Phoenix:

This knife just happened to be in the trunk of that car. Ladies and gentlemen, if you're going to plan a murder, you don't forget the weapon!

Angel:

Ugh... Woooooooorrrgh!

Judge:

Order! Order! Order!

Phoenix:

(Great! Now the tide is turning in our favor!)

Ema:

Great show, Mr. Wright! My sister's as good as free!

Edgeworth:

Wright. I believe the next lunch you'll be eating is... humble pie!

Phoenix:

W-what!?

Edgeworth:

I hope you weren't deluding yourself into thinking that the "tide has turned." Not over such a trifling detail!

Phoenix:

B-but this shoots a hole in the whole premeditated theory!

Edgeworth:

Bah! The prosecution could care less if it was premeditated or not. The only one who seems to care is that lunchlady over there.

Angel: !

Edgeworth:

The defendant, Lana Skye, murdered a detective with a knife. That is the only thing the prosecution need prove. Nothing else.

Angel:

Very good, Mr. Prosecutor... I suppose you think you're clever now? But you know as well as I do that she planned on killing him! It was planned! If it wasn't, why would she have been wearing...

Judge:

I believe I'd like to hear your testimony again.

Edgeworth:

Witness, please tell us only what you " saw ," not what you "thought."

Angel:

How dare you! My powers of deduction are not to be underestimated!

Phoenix:

(Really now...)

Witness Testimony

- - Angel's Deduction - -

Angel:

Lana Skye intended to murder Detective Goodman! That's why she called the victim all the way to the Prosecutor's Office. I'm sure the Chief Prosecutor had a grudge against the victim. Nothing else could drive that human machine to plunge the knife in again and again...

Judge:

The victim was summoned from the Police Department to the Prosecutor's Office.. It does sound a lot like premeditation, doesn't it!?

Ema:

So, if I order pizza, does that mean I'm planning to kill the delivery boy?

Judge:

In any case, the defense may now cross-examine the witness.

Cross Examination

- - Angel's Deduction - -

Angel:

Lana Skye intended to murder Detective Goodman!

Angel:

That's why she called the victim all the way to the Prosecutor's Office.

Angel:

I'm sure the Chief Prosecutor had a grudge against the victim.

Angel:

Nothing else could drive that human machine to plunge the knife in again and again...

Angel:

Her red muffler looked like blood to me... that's how ghastly the whole scene was.

Phoenix:

(Ms. Starr has turned out to be as short-tempered as she looked when we met her. Challenging her abilities as a detective really set her off!)

Ema:

The short wick burns out the fastest! It's a scientific fact!

Phoenix:

I wonder... wouldn't it depend on the size of the candle? I mean, add more wax and even a really short wick will burn longer...

Ema:

... Obviously, more scientific testing is required!

Phoenix:

Ms. Starr! I demand an explanation...

Edgeworth:

The witness is clearly not suited for detective work.

Angel:

W-what!?

Edgeworth:

The suspect was not wearing a scarf or muffler of any kind when she stabbed the victim. And you've proved it yourself! With this photograph!

Angel:

Huh? B-but that... That can't be!

Edgeworth:

Only a true professional could be so clueless. I'm sure you'll make a good lunchlady, have no fear.

Judge:

Hmm! Harsh words! But good!

Ema:

In the end, Mr. Edgeworth prevails!

Phoenix:

(What was my objection, chopped liver!?)

Angel:

B-but it was there, a scarf, no, not that, but something red! Really!

Edgeworth:

Well now, where were we? The witness has given us an entertaining interlude, now back to business.

Angel:

Wh-what!?

Judge:

Very well, witness, continue your testimony. You saw the crime, and apprehended the suspect... Tell us about that.

Angel:

...... Very well. I do remember some things accurately, at least.

Phoenix:

(Ultimately, we couldn't shake the most important part of her testimony.)

Ema:

The most important part...?

Phoenix:

The part where your sister stabs the victim! (This next testimony might just be the moment of truth!)

Witness Testimony

- - Apprehending the Suspect - -

Angel:

After the murder, the suspect attempted to run behind a partition off to her side. I quickly caught her, explained her rights to her, and arrested her on the spot. Ah, yes. When I arrested her, she mentioned the muffler! That's what had me confused in my earlier testimony! The chief prosecutor made to escape, but against Angel Starr, resistance is futile!

Judge:

You are quite determined about this scarf, aren't you?

Angel:

I strike like a snake and bite like a cobra! That's me. Angel Starr.

Phoenix:

That wasn't a very good metaphor. First of all, a cobra is a kind of snake.

Angel:

Don't bother me with details, unless you want to get bitten!

Phoenix:

N-no thanks!

Ema:

Note to self: Attorney Wright gets bitten by snake.

Angel:

The chief prosecutor tried to resist, but her efforts were in vain. She knocked my hands aside, kicked over an oil drum...

Phoenix:

O-oil drum? (Hard to imagine...)

Angel:

Oh, she's beautiful, but deadly! A predator, this one! A leopard woman! Rowr!

Judge:

Very well, Mr. Wright. Your cross-examination, if you will.

Cross Examination

- - Apprehending the Suspect - -

Angel:

After the murder, the suspect attempted to run behind a partition off to her side.

Angel:

I quickly caught her, explained her rights to her, and arrested her on the spot.

Angel:

Ah, yes. When I arrested her, she mentioned the muffler!

Angel:

That's what had me confused in my earlier testimony!

Angel:

She gave up trying to use the phone on the wall and just used her cell phone!

Angel:

The chief prosecutor made to escape, but against Angel Starr, resistance is futile!

Phoenix:

(So Ms. Skye tried to run?)

Ema:

I'm sorry my sister is so suspicious, Mr. Wright...

Phoenix:

Not as sorry as I am.

Ema:

But she didn't do it! You have to believe me!

Phoenix:

I have to conclude that you have a personal grudge against Ms. Lana Skye.

Edgeworth:

The witness is a former detective. Her testimony is unmarred by personal bias.

Angel:

Well, who would have thought you would be my knight in shining armor, prosecutor? You who, together with the chief prosecutor, kicked me out two years ago!

Edgeworth:

...

Phoenix:

Well, Ms. Starr... This is a fatal contradiction with your testimony... How do you explain this?

Angel:

Hmph! I don't know what you're talking about. Mess with me... and I'll make you cough it ALL up!

Phoenix:

Ahem. Let's look at the floor plans. You said you witnessed the crime from this point. However, if that's true... You couldn't possibly have seen Ms. Skye making that phone call!

Angel:

...!

Phoenix:

I believe you see what I'm getting at. That emergency phone was on the back side of this partition. If, indeed, you were in B Block... You couldn't have seen it!

Angel:

Wha... Waaaaaaaaaaarrrgh!

Judge:

Order! Order! What is the meaning of this?

Phoenix:

It's simple, Your Honor. She's not coughing up lunch... she's coughing up lies!!!

Angel:

Grrr!

Edgeworth:

That's quite a claim, Mr. Wright... perhaps you will allow me a question? Tell us exactly what lie this witness has told the court!

Phoenix:

(Here's where the counterattack begins! I can't afford to get this wrong!) The witness lied about...

Phoenix:

She tried to use the emergency phone... but it was out of order. What is significant about this fact? Nothing. It would be pointless for her to lie about it!

Judge:

Pointless to lie... I see!

Phoenix:

The witness did actually see Ms. Skye using the emergency phone. In other words... Ms. Starr witnessed the crime from a different location !

Edgeworth:

A different location!? Now that's a pointless lie if I ever heard one!

Phoenix:

Before you call my lie pointless... at least let me tell it!

Judge:

Let me ask a question to our clever wordsmith, Mr. Wright. Just where was the witness when she saw the crime!?

Phoenix:

(All the testimony we've heard until now points in one direction...) The place from where Ms. Starr witnessed this crime was... here!

Phoenix:

This is the only place where she could have been.

Judge:

The security guard room?

Edgeworth:

Indeed, the security room in the underground parking lot is well positioned... It's built on the second level, so you can see the entire lot.

Judge:

Hmm... She would have been able to see the emergency phone from there. But why there? There are many other places where she could have seen the phone.

Phoenix:

Not in this case, Your Honor. The witness, not being part of the Prosecutor's Office, couldn't park in A Block. The only place where she could have seen the crime and the back of the partition is here. I remember in your testimony, you said... You brought a lunch to your "boyfriend" in the security guard room, yes? Well, Ms. Starr?

Angel:

... How many years have I been getting the better of men...? To think that the tables could be turned... Today, a man has got the better of Angel Starr!

Judge:

Order! Order! Witness! What have you done!? You used to be a detective! You should know better!

Angel:

I'm not turning back. The guilty will be punished. And I'll do what I must to make sure justice prevails.

Phoenix:

(The guilty... is she talking about Ms. Skye...?)

Ema:

Um, Mr. Wright? Doesn't this strike you as odd? Why did Ms. Starr lie? It doesn't make sense!

Phoenix:

Huh?

Ema:

She could have just said she saw the crime from the security guard station. It wouldn't change anything!

Edgeworth:

Exactly! This photograph tells all! It was the defendant who stabbed the victim! That truth still stands!

Phoenix:

It "still stands"? I disagree, Mr. Edgeworth.

Edgeworth:

Wh-what!?

Phoenix:

If a witness is found to be lying, they're guilty of perjury. She knows this. She wouldn't risk that without a good reason!

Judge:

So, tell us what her reason was, Mr. Wright!

Phoenix:

... Huh? M-me?

Judge:

Who else!?

Ema:

Mr. Wright! Let's review what we know!

Phoenix:

(Ms. Starr witnessed the crime from the security guard station ... But she lied and said she saw it from B Block ... It must make a vital difference ... but what? What would change...?)

Phoenix:

It changes the distance between her and the scene of the crime!

Edgeworth:

My condolences, Mr. Wright... But one look at the floor plans and it's quite clear. The distance between the scene of the crime and the guard station is 30 feet. I don't see how that would change what she could see.

Phoenix:

What she saw is not in question here. What matters is the time it would take her to reach the scene of the crime!

Edgeworth:

...!

Phoenix:

Ms. Starr! You witnessed the crime from the security guard station! Now, how long did it take you to go from there... to the scene of the crime, where you arrested Ms. Skye!?

Angel:

...

Judge:

Well, witness?

Angel:

You...

Phoenix:

Y-yes...?

Angel:

You ordered the Squid Wheels, right?

Phoenix:

(The quality of my lunches has gone from low to inedible.)

Angel:

I was bringing a PB&J lunch with fresh boysenberry jam to my boyfriend.

Judge:

Hmm... Boysenberry for the boyfriend!

Angel:

He wasn't in the station, so I waited. I witnessed the crime from the glass-walled station... and before I knew what I was doing, I found myself running towards the scene. But... the door was locked. I couldn't open it. That's why I had to go through the visitor's parking in B Block.

Judge:

That's quite a detour.

Angel:

It probably took me at least five minutes to get to the scene of the crime.

Judge:

F-f-f-five minutes!? Hmm... This changes things considerably!

Angel:

But, it was that woman over there in the defendant's chair who stabbed him! I know it! I have photographic evidence! I swear it... I swear it on my finest plastic spork!

Judge:

You have a point. And the spork is a wonderful invention.

Angel:

Would you like another Caviar Lunch...?

Judge:

Absolutely!

Phoenix:

(Uh oh...)

Ema:

Mr. Wright! You have to do something!

Phoenix:

(Do I have any evidence to stop this...?)

Phoenix:

Five minutes between the witnessing of the murder and the arrest! Think about it! You could make pasta in that amount of time! If you like it al dente!

Angel:

I've got lunchboxes that tie pasta into knots, Rookie!

Phoenix:

A five minute "blank"... Isn't that strange!?

Edgeworth:

Strange...?

Phoenix:

If you were a criminal... What would you do with five minutes, Your Honor?

Judge:

Well, um... I guess I'd flee the scene. Hey! D-don't get the wrong idea! I didn't kill anyone...

Phoenix:

But you have the instincts of a killer! You would run! But this time was different! Ms. Skye dawdled at the scene of the crime... she even had her picture taken! No true criminal would act this way! It's inconceivable!

Angel:

Y- yeeeaaargh!

Judge:

Well then. It seems we've come to the end of this testimony. She has a grudge against the defendant, and there is a blank in her testimony.

Angel:

...!

Judge:

Mr. Edgeworth, is the next witness ready to go?

Edgeworth:

Unfortunately... I appear to have overestimated this witness on account of her professional history...

Ema:

We did it! We screwed that can shut, Mr. Wright!

Phoenix:

(Th-that was too close!)

Judge:

I'm afraid that the Cough-up Queen has been dethroned. And with that, court is adjourned!



Angel:

Mr. Edgeworth, you ordered the Squid Wheels, right?

Phoenix:

(That's the one she tried to foist off on me!)

Edgeworth:

I prefer to not take the defense team's leftovers. Anything else to say?

Angel:

I... might be able to save you. I have decisive evidence.

Judge:

Wh-what was that!?

Phoenix:

(Is this another one of her trick lunchboxes!?)

Judge:

My apologies, but we have no further questions to ask of you, Ms. Starr.

Angel:

Ah... Is this your jumbo lunchbox?

Judge:

Whoo hoo! A triple-decker! Out of deference to the witness's determination, I'll allow one more testimony! Let's hear about this decisive evidence.

Angel:

Like the Lunchland motto says, you won't be disappointed!

Phoenix:

(What's she going to pull out of her lunchbox this time!?)

Witness Testimony

- - Decisive Evidence - -

Angel:

I should have mentioned those five minutes when I wasn't looking at the crime scene. And now, to the matter of the victim's shoe... Did I not bring this up...? Two types of blood were found on this shoe! One was of course the victim's. And the other was...! The defendant, Ms. Lana Skye's blood! This shoe proves it! It's flawless, decisive evidence!

Judge:

Wh-what!? There was blood found on that shoe!?

Angel:

Try Lunchland, for all your lunch and decisive evidence needs!

Edgeworth:

Witness, what's the meaning of this? Why is this the first time I've heard of this evidence?

Angel:

Simple. As I've already said... I don't trust you with evidence, Mr. Edgeworth! That's why I took the liberty of investigating this myself.

Edgeworth:

And... you had blood tests performed?

Angel:

Didn't I mention? I have three boyfriends in forensics.

Edgeworth:

In any case, Your Honor, I can't accept this as evidence!

Angel:

What...?

Edgeworth:

You should know the two rules of evidence law, Ms. Starr! Rule 1: no evidence shall be shown without the approval of the Police Department ! In other words, this shoe is illegal evidence! At least, for the time being!

Ema:

I-is that right, Mr. Wright!?

Phoenix:

It seems so. Edgeworth sure is celebrating.

Angel:

Not so fast, Mr. Edgeworth.

Edgeworth:

...!

Angel:

Don't forget... I used to be a detective! As I mentioned previously... This shoe has already been tested by a member of the forensics department! As you can see, it was approved by the Police Department as of... today. Even the general public can produce official evidence, Mr. Edgeworth.

Edgeworth:

Nuh... Ungh!

Ema:

I-is that right, Mr. Wright!?

Phoenix:

It seems so. Edgeworth is looking pretty sullen.

Ema:

You could at least study some evidence law! Really!

Judge:

The prosecution's complaints notwithstanding... It appears that this evidence satisfies the first rule of evidence law. Well... It seems you have yet another count against you, witness.

Angel:

Anything to ensure that the guilty are properly judged.

Victim's Shoe added to the Court Record.

Judge:

Very well, Mr. Wright, you may cross-examine the witness!

Cross Examination

- - Decisive Evidence - -

Angel:

I should have mentioned those five minutes when I wasn't looking at the crime scene.

Angel:

And now, to the matter of the victim's shoe... Did I not bring this up...?

Angel:

Two types of blood were found on this shoe! One was of course the victim's.

Angel:

And the other was...! The defendant, Ms. Lana Skye's blood!

Angel:

This shoe proves it! It's flawless, decisive evidence!

Phoenix:

(That's pretty sly, hiding evidence like that!)

Ema:

There's nothing sly about a lawyer using the law as a weapon! In any case, science is always on our side! Don't forget! Scientific investigation is the wave of the future!

Phoenix:

(Hmm... maybe I should "investigate" this evidence a little more closely...)

Phoenix:

The problem lies... in the footprint.

Angel:

The... footprint?

Phoenix:

Note that the bottom of the victim's shoe is covered in blood. Then... isn't it strange? Why weren't any bloody footprints found by the scene of the crime!?

Judge:

Ah hah!

Phoenix:

As you can see... There were no traces of any such footprints at the scene of the crime! That contradicts your claim about this shoe!

Edgeworth:

This picture only shows part of the floor, so there could have been bloody footprints.

Phoenix:

If there were bloody prints they would have been found. We checked the scene and found nothing of the sort!

Judge:

Order! Order! Order! Well, witness!?

Angel:

What!? Huh? I, uh...

Ema:

Great going, Mr. Wright! But... It's true that the lack of a footprint is a contradiction... But then we have to ask why there wasn't a footprint!

Phoenix:

Oh!

Judge:

That's true! There has to be a reason why there wasn't a footprint!

Ema:

Think, Mr. Wright, think!

Phoenix:

... Hey, I don't know why it's not there. I'm just good at finding contradictions.

Ema:

What!?



Edgeworth:

I see... Now I get it!

Phoenix:

(Get what!?)

Edgeworth:

Our witness is more devious than I gave her credit for! We were hoodwinked to the very end! But she slipped! There is one vital hint to the truth in her testimony...

Judge:

Wh-what are you talking about?

Edgeworth:

Think back to when she told us about apprehending the suspect...

-

Angel:

The chief prosecutor tried to resist, but her efforts were in vain. She knocked my hands aside, kicked over an oil drum... Oh, she's beautiful, but deadly! A predator, this one! A leopard woman! Rowr!

-

Edgeworth:

I thought that was a strange thing for the normally cool-headed chief to do.

Phoenix:

(No kidding!)

Edgeworth:

Now, witness. Allow me to ask a very simple question. This "oil drum"... was it empty?

Angel:

... Oh, that, hmm? I'm not sure I like your attitude, Mr. Edgeworth. Though apparently you're not the slowest conveyor belt in the lunchbox factory.

Judge:

Witness! W-well? Was the oil drum empty...?

Angel:

The oil drum kicked over by the chief prosecutor... was brimming with water.

Phoenix:

W-water? (What does that mean?)

Edgeworth:

Still don't get it, Mr. Wright? Do you want to know the reason she knocked it over? The REAL reason?

Judge:

Aaaa haaaaah! You don't mean...!

Edgeworth:

Yes, the suspect knocked over that oil drum for one reason and one reason alone! To erase the blood stains that would become evidence against her!

Phoenix:

Whaaaaaaaaargh!

Judge:

That ties things up quite nicely! The blood stains left on the victim's shoes tie her quite clearly to this murder! Then, after the deed was done, she knocked over the oil drum to erase the telltale signs!

Angel:

Why, that's a prosecutor's specialty... erasing evidence!

Phoenix:

(That reminds me... Ms. Skye's right hand was hurt... Didn't she say she'd cut herself when she stabbed him...?)

Ema:

So my sister's blood on the shoe... That's when it happened?

Judge:

Well... I see no reason to prolong this trial.

Ema:

M-Mr. Wright! Do something! Please!

Phoenix:

W-what!? What can I do? Your sister has confessed to the crime, and she tried to conceal it!

Ema:

B-but...

Edgeworth:

Enough. There is no need for further debate. The verdict, Your Honor!

Judge:

Very well...

Ema:

But Angel Starr is on the prosecution's side! She could have been lying about the water!

Judge:

This court finds the defendant, Ms. Lana Skye...



Angel:

Little girl... What did you just say?

Ema:

Huh...? M-me?

Angel:

Did you say that I, Angel Starr... was on the prosecution's side?

Ema:

W-well, yeah, you are! You're saying my sister hid evidence by erasing the bloody footprints!

Angel:

Well. I thought you'd had your fill, but here you are, demanding a second helping! Another lunchbox... A lunchbox called "evidence"!

Judge:

W-wait... Witness, don't tell me you have something else?

Edgeworth:

You've reached your verdict, Your Honor! Any further comments will be held in contempt of court!

Angel:

Your threats don't scare the Cough-up Queen! Look at this!!!

Judge:

A photograph...?

Angel:

I had this just in case anyone had the gall to suggest... that the white shoe didn't belong to the victim!

Judge:

Hmm... I see no room for error in this evidence.

Ema:

M-Mr. Wright, wait! Look at the asphalt in this photo!

Phoenix:

Hey! It's clearly wet!

Judge:

Erasing the last trace of doubt from the court's mind. Immediately after the murder, the crime scene was washed with water!

Ema:

I-I'm sorry, Mr. Wright. I guess I... I couldn't help after all.

Phoenix:

(It's not your fault... I knew I couldn't win this case from the beginning. And... it seems this is what your sister wanted anyway! ... I'm sorry, Mia...) ... ... ...

Wright... wet or not...

Don't be so quick to throw in the towel...

Phoenix:

...!

Get yourself up off the asphalt... take another good look...

Don't give up... Not until the bitter end.

Phoenix:

(This is the last piece of evidence...)

Judge:

Very well! This time I'd like to declare a verdict for good!

Phoenix:

Your Honor, wait!

Judge:

What is it with you people!? Can't I hand down my verdicts in peace anymore!? Whatever it is, can it wait?

Phoenix:

N-no it can't. Then it will be too late! Look at this photograph, the last one submitted... This trial isn't over... until we give each piece of evidence proper consideration!

Edgeworth:

So, Wright... Are you saying there's a problem with this latest piece of evidence?

Phoenix:

Yeah! (I'll think later!) Yeah, there's a problem! (Right or wrong, I've got to go ahead with this!)

Judge:

I suppose since we've come this far, we should give every claim a fair shake. Very well, Mr. Wright. Show the court the problem in this photograph!

Phoenix:

The problem in this photograph... is here!

Edgeworth:

What's this...? There's something poking out of the car's muffler !

Judge:

Wait just a moment, Mr. Edgeworth!

Edgeworth:

Your Honor?

Judge:

You just said " muffler "... However I see no trace of a muffler or scarf of any kind in this photograph!

Edgeworth:

... A muffler is also a part on a car or motorcycle, Your Honor. Just think of it as... part of the exhaust system. A pipe...

Judge:

I see! And... I see! What's that suspicious-looking cloth sticking out of the car's muffler?

Angel:

Hmph! So what if there is something sticking out of the muffler! What does that have to do with this case? Nothing! Absolutely nothing!

Phoenix:

Sorry, Ms. Starr... But it's not going to be that easy! In fact, you've already told us why this is important to the case... You said as much in your testimony!!!

Angel:

Wh-what!?

Judge:

Let's hear what Mr. Wright has on his mind! Tell us why you think this piece of cloth in the muffler is related to this case.

Phoenix:

Ms. Starr! Recall your testimony for the court...

-

Angel:

Ah yes. When I arrested her, she mentioned the muffler !

Angel:

That's what had me confused in my earlier testimony!

-

Angel:

Muffler ! argh! Yeearrrrgh!

Phoenix:

Could it be that the "muffler" you heard mentioned... Was actually this exhaust pipe !? If so! That means this piece of cloth is vital evidence!

Angel:

Oh... Whooooooooooo ooooooooooooragh!

Judge:

Well... It seems we will have to suspend the proceedings.

Angel:

Sus... Suspend!?

Judge:

I find myself wondering about that piece of cloth. If we leave any question unanswered here we do a disservice to the law! Have the car at the crime scene inspected at once, and bring me that cloth! The verdict will wait until after we've seen all the evidence. Agreed...?

Edgeworth:

... I suppose so.

Phoenix:

(Whew... that was close. But... we made it... at least for now!)

Judge:

The court will adjourn for a thirty minute recess! It's lunchtime after all!

Phoenix:

(He's still hungry!?)

To be continued.

February 23, 11:56 AM District Court Defendant Lobby No. 2

Ema:

Um... Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

Huh? What?

Ema:

Are trials... always like this with you? Like you're swimming up from the bottom of a lake, about to reach the surface... But no matter how hard you paddle you never seem to get there...

Phoenix:

Pretty much. Except today we're swimming in quicksand. So what happened to your sister, anyway?

Ema:

Apparently she got called off to the judge's chambers.

Phoenix:

Hmm... Probably something to do with that piece of cloth.

Ema: So! This is where we turn this trial around, right? Our only weapon, a tiny, insignificant piece of cloth!

Phoenix:

I'm the one who's starting to feel tiny and insignificant to tell the truth.

???:

Hola, Pardner!

Marshall:

They say you show a red cloth to a bull, it'll fire up its temper! That's what they told me when I was a young'un, at least.

Ema:

Officer Marshall!

Marshall:

Thought I'd come take a look-see at how the trial's going. Looks like I'm late. They've got the place locked down tighter than a fort in enemy territory!

Phoenix:

What is going on over there, anyway? All the police I've seen these last two days have been really on edge.

Marshall:

Don't you got enough on your plate without worrying about other people, compadre? You could be worrying about the chief prosecutor's taste in mufflers, for example.

Ema:

Um... Officer Marshall? The whole "muffler" thing didn't have anything to do with scarves... She wasn't even wearing a scarf!

Marshall:

You don't say? Now don't that just beat all.

Ema:

...?

Marshall:

I've seen the red breeze blow at her slender neck many a time... I saw it that day, too. She was wearing a red muffler.

Ema:

What!?

Marshall:

At the awards ceremony that afternoon. Edgeworth's seen it too, I'd reckon.

Phoenix:

(What does that mean!? In the photograph taken at the crime scene... she wasn't wearing a scarf!)

Ema:

So, Ms. Starr wasn't mistaken...

Marshall:

Well, it's about time. Remember, pardner, sometimes you gotta grab the bull by the horns... and sometimes you just gotta let that bull go where it will. Time will tell!

Phoenix:

(Ugh... I have a bad feeling about this.)

Ema:

So... what are we swimming in now, Mr. Wright?

Marshall:

If it's steak sauce, I can hook you up with some fine ribs! Ooh-wee!

February 23, 12:32 PM District Court Courtroom No. 9

Judge:

I'd... like to... resume...?

Phoenix:

(What's up? The judge keeps looking over at the prosecution...)

Judge:

Is something wrong, Mr. Edgeworth? Your face is blue, your lips are purple, you're sweating bullets... That furrowed brow, those grinding teeth, those watery eyes... What's more your eyes are unfocused, you're doubled over, your back is bent...

Edgeworth:

It... can't... be!! This... can't... happen!

Ema:

I wonder what happened to Mr. Edgeworth?

Judge:

Well then, I believe it is time we continued on with this trial. During our recess I had requested that the prosecution conduct an investigation...

Edgeworth:

Th-this is unacceptable!

Judge:

Hmm... It seems our prosecutor is quite beside himself.

???:

Ah, er, excuse me. Knock knock?

Judge:

...? Who's there?

Phoenix:

(What's with this guy? A strange, stuffy aura seems to be filling the courtroom.)

Ema:

Hey! The temperature rose 5.7 degrees when that man came in!

Phoenix:

(Who on earth is he...?)

Judge:

Ah, it's you...

???:

Oh! Oh, heh heh. Sorry I'm late, Udgey! The roads were packed. It's just me! Long time no see, eh, Udgey? How ya been? Swim much these days!

Judge:

Ah! Hello, hello. No, I've been so busy...

???:

Busy! Busy-smizzy, Udgey, my boy! You have to make time to relax!

Judge:

Y-yes, indeed.

Ema:

Udgey... seems to be his nickname for the judge...?

Phoenix:

I'm afraid you're right. Very afraid. Um... sorry, but... who are you?

???:

Ah hah! So you're Wrighto! The attorney! I've heard good things about you, son!

Phoenix:

Eh? Uh, th-thanks...?

???:

So sorry about our little Worthy giving you all that trouble, eh? You know, we should all go swimming together sometime! Jolly!

Phoenix:

Little... Little Worthy...?

Judge:

Mr. Wright! You don't know the district Chief of Police!?

Phoenix:

Chuh....? Chief of Police...!?

Judge:

He's the top ranking police officer in the entire district!

Gant:

Name's Gant, Damon Gant. Pleased to meet you, everyone!

Judge: So, uh, to what do we owe this honor today? It's been over... two years since you last came to this courtroom, hasn't it?

Gant:

Well, it's Worthy, here. Look at the poor fellow! I just thought I'd help out... by bringing this.

Phoenix:

Hey! Th-that's...!

Ema:

My sister's muffler!

Phoenix:

(So Ms. Starr wasn't just seeing things! When the crime occurred, Ms. Skye really was wearing that muffler!)

Gant:

But to think that it was stuffed into that exhaust pipe... On little Worthy's car, no less! It's really quite embarrassing, even for us.

Judge:

Wh-what's this!?

Gant:

It's what you'd call a switchblade knife. Quite perplexing, this.

Edgeworth:

Chief! What kind of outfit are you running!?

Judge:

M-Mr. Edgeworth!

Edgeworth:

How could they miss such a vital piece of evidence!? If your investigators are this lax, how do you expect us to do our job?

Gant:

N-now wait a minute, Worthy!

Edgeworth:

I've no desire to hear your excuses!

Gant:

I'm telling you to wait! Or didn't you hear me?

Edgeworth:

...!

Gant:

Have a look at this document, where it says "person in charge of investigation"... There's no mistaking that signature... Miles Edgeworth ?

Edgeworth:

Th-that's no fair! The day of the crime, I-I had...

Gant:

Your head in the clouds because you got that award! I know how you feel... But you're the person in charge. I'll expect a written apology.

Edgeworth:

What? Are you serious!?

Gant:

Don't be too upset, we'll find a way to clean up this mess... that you made.

Edgeworth:

...!

Ema:

This is the first time I've seen Mr. Edgeworth at a loss for words...

Judge:

This kind of major blunder is unlike you Mr. Edgeworth.

Edgeworth:

Gah...!

Judge:

The court accepts this new evidence.

Judge:

But, I'd like to ask the defense a favor first.

Phoenix:

Y-yes?

Judge:

Just to be sure... I'd like to take a look at the blade of this knife.

Phoenix:

The b-blade, Your Honor? Well, I don't see why not...

Judge:

Could you open it up for me, I wonder?

Phoenix:

Yes, well. I think all you have to do is push that switch, and...

Judge: If I cut my finger Mr. Wright, I wouldn't be able to pound my gavel anymore.

Phoenix:

(Yeah. But if I cut my finger, I wouldn't be able to point it at people anymore...)

Ema:

Come on! Just hurry up and open it!

Switchblade Knife added to the Court Record.

Edgeworth:

This does not excuse the actions of the Police Department!

Edgeworth:

I would like to hear an explanation from the Chief of Police himself!

Judge:

I'm terribly sorry, but could I ask you to testify for us? About the split between the prosecutors and the police... and this knife.

Gant:

Sure! Sure thing. Not a problem, not even a little one! Really!

Witness Testimony

- - Witness's Account - -

Gant:

This knife is special... but I can't say how here. Unless there's evidence to prove a connection between this knife and Goodman... That was a bad day for the Department. We weren't in any shape to do an investigation. A detective was killed at the Police Department, see... what a mess! The time of the crime? 5:15. Scary coincidence, eh? It's not officially linked to this here case, so I can't talk much about it. Judge:

There... There was a murder at the Police Department!? A detective!?

Gant:

That's hush-hush information, Udgey! We haven't exactly announced it yet.

Edgeworth:

W-wait a second! You said " 5:15 "... That's the exact time that Detective Goodman was killed at the Prosecutor's Office!

Judge:

Order! Order! Order!

Gant:

Anyway, we at the Department were all a-flustered, as you might well assume. We're in the middle of a top-top-secret investigation. Don't tell anyone, okay?

Judge:

I think we understand the Police Department's situation... Well, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

(Two detectives killed at the same time in two different places...)

Ema:

The chances of that are really slim. Scientifically speaking, of course.

Phoenix:

I'd... like to exercise my right to cross-examine the witness.

Judge:

Very well... however! Keep your questions focused on the case at hand!

Cross Examination

- - Witness's Account - -

Gant:

This knife is special... but I can't say how here.

Gant:

Unless there's evidence to prove a connection between this knife and Goodman...

Gant:

This knife was evidence in a case. It was stolen from the Department's evidence room.

Gant:

That was a bad day for the Department. We weren't in any shape to do an investigation.

Gant:

A detective was killed at the Police Department, see... what a mess!

Gant:

The time of the crime? 5:15. Scary coincidence, eh?

Gant:

It's not officially linked to this here case, so I can't talk much about it.

Gant:

I'll cooperate, but I can't reveal the name of the victim at the Department, okay?

Phoenix:

(Two detectives were killed at 5:15... One at the Prosecutor's Office ... And one at the Police Department ... that can't be a coincidence!)

Ema:

And that knife ! What was it doing there...?

Phoenix:

(I'd better check this knife out...)

Phoenix:

Witness! ...

Gant:

...

Edgeworth:

...

Judge:

... What is it, Mr. Wright!? You're grinning like a schoolgirl on prom night!

Phoenix:

No, I... it's just, I got confused...

Edgeworth:

And this is news?

Phoenix:

Huh?

Edgeworth:

Just come out with both guns blazing... like you always do.

Phoenix:

(The Police Department... the Prosecutor's Office... Two places, two detectives murdered... at one time.) Actually, I happen to have a police ID number here.

Judge:

Oh hoh! Is it yours?

Phoenix:

N-no, Your Honor. I'm a defense attorney... remember? This is the ID number of our victim, Detective Goodman.

Gant:

Shame on you, Wrighto! Personnel IDs are top secret!

Phoenix:

Detective Goodman's ID number is... " 5842189 ."

Gant:

...

Edgeworth:

...

Judge:

... And...? This means... what, exactly?

Phoenix:

Huh?

Judge:

Wait... That ID number we heard from the Chief earlier.. That started with "82..." Hmm. I've forgotten.

Phoenix:

(You even got the first number wrong!) The number the Chief of Police gave us was... 5842189.

Edgeworth:

W-wait a second, Wright! What does this...?

Phoenix:

Mean? That's what I want to know! The two ID numbers are identical! In other words... The detective killed in the Police Department's evidence room was Bruce Goodman !

Phoenix:

What does our witness think about that!?

Gant:

... Oh! Ho ho ho, sharp as a tack, Wrighto! Sharp as a tack!

Judge:

B-but wait! Detective Goodman is OUR victim! He was killed at 5:15 in the underground parking lot!

Phoenix:

Yet, a Detective Bruce Goodman was also killed at the Police Department... In the evidence room... at the exact same time!

Edgeworth:

Th-that's impossible! So, what we're saying is... The same person was killed at the same time!? And in a completely different location!?

Judge:

Order! Order! Order! Chief! What does this mean!?

Edgeworth:

No... what I want to know is... why didn't I hear about this!? Yes, it's top-secret, fine! But I'm the prosecutor in charge of the case!!!

Gant:

Now, just wait a second, Worthy. No need to get all flustered.

Edgeworth:

Your Honor! The Police Department has made a grave error in this case...

Gant:

Wait. I said "wait." Or didn't you hear me?

Edgeworth:

...!

Gant:

The oversight... the grave error...? Mr. Edgeworth... They're yours.

Edgeworth:

Wh-what!? How... how dare...

Gant:

We informed you yesterday. I believe it was our Officer Meekins who brought you the news?

Edgeworth:

O-officer... Meekins?

Ema:

Mr. Wright! Where have we heard that name before? Wait... Ah hah!

-

Officer:

Erm...! Excuse me! But is Mr. Edgeworth, uh... anywhere on the premises? I'm here, sir, at the request of the chief, sir! I've got your report, sir!

-

Edgeworth:

You don't mean... him!?

Gant:

According to Meekins, you didn't accept the report?

Gant:

Hard to believe.

Edgeworth:

B-but your officer, he told me! He said that report had nothing to do with the Lana Skye incident!

Gant:

[ Detective Bruce Goodman murdered in the Police Department evidence room...] Mr. Edgeworth. The victim's name is written on the top of the report.

Edgeworth:

Gaaaaaaah! Wh-why didn't your officer tell me!?

Ema:

Honestly, I'm not sure if that officer was capable of making the connection... He did seem... challenged.

Gant:

In any case, this is a serious error, a gross negligence of duty on your part, Worthy.

Edgeworth:

B-But, sir!!! You could have submitted that report this morning to the court, as evidence! Then, I...

Gant:

No such luck this time, Worthy... or should I say, un-Worthy?

Edgeworth:

What!?

Gant:

Now what was the second rule of evidence law, hmm?

Ema:

Well, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:

Huh? Oh, well, it's, uh...

Edgeworth:

Rule 2: New evidence may only be submitted if it concerns the case on trial. And how is this relevant!?

Gant:

Normally, you submit a list of evidence to be used in court before the trial. This report wasn't on that list...

Judge:

So... What does this mean?

Gant:

I couldn't submit this evidence until a connection was proven in court.

Edgeworth:

...!!

Gant:

That connection was just proven by Wrighto over here. Good job, Wrighto, my boy!

Phoenix:

Huh? Uh... I... I was just doing my job.

Edgeworth:

No... Noooooooooooooo!!!

Judge:

It seems... we have come to the end of this trial.

Gant:

You are becoming a thorn in my side, Worthy... There've been rumors... After all, you were in the defendant's chair just last year...!

Edgeworth:

...! I apologize for this terrible lack of due diligence on my part...

Judge:

M-Mr. Edgeworth!

Edgeworth:

Please... Just give me one day. I'll get to the bottom of what happened... If it's the last thing I do!

Gant:

You'd better get results this time. Really.

Edgeworth:

I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!

Ema:

Poor Mr. Edgeworth...

Judge:

I don't think there's ever been an error this serious in the history of this court. We will grant one further day as the prosecution has requested. Will this be sufficient, Mr. Edgeworth.

Edgeworth:

Yes, Your Honor. Thank you.

Judge:

Whatever your punishment for this is, for your sake I hope it's not... decisive. Very well! Court is adjourned!

To be continued.