Author's Note: Sup everyone! King of Blacks here, back with not a RWBY fanfic, but an AA fic. I know, sorry 'bout that but I need to get this one out of my head first before I can continue my other fic. It's just that my idea for the Chapter 10 for Our Purpose got buried by this one so I can't really get it done right now, but don't worry! Once I'm done with this chapter, I should be starting back on that one, so that's cool. And shout out to Thepudz, Yanmegaman and Jordan Phoenix for being my inspiration in starting this fic. All your works are the absolute best!

Well, with that all done and everything, let's start off Chapter 1 of Oath of Khurain.

Disclaimer: The Ace Attorney series are properties of Capcom and all, so don't even bother asking me about it. I do own the OCs though, so that's cool.

Oath of Khurain

Chapter 1: Turnabout Apprentice

(Apollo 1st POV)

24 August 2028, 9.48pm

Justice's Law Office

"Wow. Now I know how Mr. Wright feels." I sighed in frustration. Three months after starting my own law office and my desk is still full of reports and requests to be done. I guess being the only defense attorney on Khurain is more troublesome than I'd have guessed. Still, at least some other lawyers have started coming out of their hiding. Guess it won't be long before things return to normal.

It's almost closing time and I'm still stuck here with my paper work. Sigh, I wish someone could help me around here.

"Hey, AJ! Someone wants to meet ya over here!" I heard Datz shout from the lobby. Who could possibly come around this time? Curious and admittedly tired of my paperwork, I decided to indulge Datz and exited my office. Once at the lobby, I saw two people. Datz, with his trademark goofy expression and military suit, and the other one...a kid?

Well, the boy in front of me is more like a teenager, probably around a little bit younger than Trucy (God, I miss her). His clothes weren't exactly anything special, with a black T-shirt and brown pants which looked kinda worse for wear. His black hair is long and unruly, and his silver eyes looked nervous as he twiddled his thumbs around.

"I'm sorry, but we're about to close now. You can come back tomorrow." I said politely.

The boy blinked for a moment before waving his arms flustered. "N-no, no, no. That's not why I'm here."

"Wait, you're not here to request for a defense?" I asked in surprise. Why else would someone even come here, especially this late?

"No, I'm not..." the boy mumbled out. I stared at him intently as he took a deep breath. "Mr. Justice, I'm here to...I'm here to..." The boy struggled to speak before he gave a deep bow and said loudly, "...Please take me as your apprentice, sir!"

I stood there, in shock after his outburst. Looks like my wish was granted sooner than I expected. I must have been quiet for a while, because the boy slumped down and turned away, probably taking my silence for a no.

"Wait!" I cried out. The boy looked back, and I cleared my throat before continuing. "You know, this office has gotten quite busy. I really don't think I could do all of this alone." The boy immediately perked up and I gave him a smile. "Just so you know, I'm probably not the best teacher you're gonna find around here, but I'll try my best. So, you prepared to be a part of Justice's Law Office?"

"Yes, sir. You won't regret your decision!" He replied immediately. He really looks excited about this, just like someone I know.

"Well, looks like this office's gonna get a little bit more livelier eh, AJ?" Datz asked jovially. I couldn't help but agree with him. "Hey, kid. What's your name?"

The boy blinked for a moment, before realising that he hasn't introduced himself. "Oh, sorry about that. My name's Mithra Ritabrata, but just call me Mithra."

Three years later...

(Mithra 1st POV)

14 December 2031, 7.30 am

Accused Lobby, High Court of Khurain

Just relax. Calm down. This is just your first tri- nope. I can't do this. This is too much. What was Mr. Justice thinking making me take this case? I'm probably gonna mess up and get my client killed or some-

"Nervous, Mithra?" A voice called out. I quickly turned to see Mr. Justice with his trademark hairstyle.

"W-what?! O-of course not! I-I'm f-fine! S-see?" I tried putting up a grin unconvincingly, but my boss wasn't fooled.

"It's okay, Mithra. I was just like you when I got my first case." He said reassuringly.

"Y-yeah, it was when you defended your mentor, right? The infamous Phoenix Wright?" I asked, even though he told me about it like a thousand times. It just sounds awesome every time he told me about it.

"Well, he wasn't exactly my mentor that time, but you could say that." He said thoughtfully but quickly changed the subject. "But I think you should worry about your client now."

And there goes my relaxed state. I turn to my client, who was sitting on the couch nervously while fiddling his guitar. He was wearing a purple leather jacket and skintight jeans. His blond spiky hair and blue eyes seemed dull with depression, which I can understand considering his situation right now.

"Mr. Reist. H-how are you doing right now?" I asked, putting up a brave face for my client.

Mr. Reist yelped in surprise before realising our presence. "Oh, Mr. Ritabrata!" He went and hugged my legs tightly, which made me flinch a little. "Please, you have to help me! I didn't kill my dear Gita!" The man begged. He really looked like a lost puppy and I couldn't help but feel bad for him.

"O-of course! That's why I'm here. To prove you innocent." I reassured him, although he still looked nervous.

"Don't worry, Mr. Reist." Mr. Justice interjected. "Mithra might be young but I wouldn't have handed this case to him if he wasn't ready."

Hearing him say it made me feel a lot better, honestly. If my boss had that much faith in me, then I shouldn't disappoint him. After all, I know my client's innocent.

Just then, the door opened and a bailiff approached us.

"Defense, the trial will start shortly. Please proceed to the Hall of Justice immediately." He said. Well, looks like this is it. It's time for me to prove my worth as a lawyer. Show time!

(Mithra 3rd POV)

14 December 2031, 8.00 am

Hall of Justice, High Court of Khurain

TRIAL IS ABOUT TO COMMENCE. ALL RISE.

"Ehem. We shall commence the trial of Vokaru Reist. Are both sides ready?" The judge announced.

"T-the defense is r-ready, Your Magistry." Mithra croaked out.

"The prosecution is also ready, Your Magistry." The prosecutor-in-charge, Gaspen Payne replied.

"Hmmmm, defense. Are you sure you're prepared?" The judge inquired. "You look quite pale, to be honest."

'Ack. Am I really that obvious?' Mithra thought sullenly. "I-I'm fine, Your Magistry. Just a little bit nervous."

"Yes, you are quite obvious there, Mithra." Apollo answered besides him as if reading his mind.

"You look quite young to be a lawyer, Mr. Ritabrata. How old are you exactly?" The judge noted.

"Umm, I'm only nineteen, sir." The lawyer replied. "I just got my badge a few weeks ago."

"I see. Quite the young age to start a career." The judge then turned his attention to Apollo. "I must say, Mr. Justice. I was quite surprised to hear that you won't be leading the defense today. Yet here you are, handing such a case to your protege." The judge said curiously.

"I'm simply giving Mithra a chance to shine." The horned head explained calmly. "And don't worry. I wouldn't have passed the defense to him if he wasn't ready."

The judge nodded thoughtfully. "True. Very well then. Prosecutor Payne, you may deliver your opening statement."

"Hmph. To think that you would back out of this case, Mr Justice and instead, giving it to a mere rookie. Are you sure you weren't just scared of my prowess as a prosecutor?" Gaspen sneered. The long-haired lawyer gritted his teeth in anger.

'Okay, this guy is pissing me off already.' He thought.

"Oh well, I guess it doesn't matter. At least I can show this newbie why I was called the Rookie Humiliator back in the States." The veteran prosecutor ranted.

"Ehem. Your opening statement, please." The judge interrupted.

"Of course." The prosecutor cleared his throat before continuing. "Now, at 3.00 pm, the body of Gita Reist, a singer was found at her residence, having been killed approximately fifteen minutes prior to being found. The cause of death was blunt force trauma at the head, which caused severe bleeding. The details are here in the autopsy report."

Autopsy Report added to the Court Records.

"Hmmm, the time of death is surprisingly quite accurate here. That is strange." The judge said.

"Yes, it was thanks to our witness who stumbled upon the body right around the time of the murder. He even saw the accused running out of the crime scene!" Gaspen explained.

OBJECTION!

"Is that why my client was accused? Simply because he came out of the crime scene?!" Mithra cried out.

The prosecutor remained smug twirling his toupee. "Of course not. I'm not that foolish, rookie. If you had just let me continue my explanation."

The judge shook his head. "Next time, let your elders finish talking before giving out any objections."

"Ack! Sorry..." He muttered, slumping down.

"A little bit too early there, Mithra." Apollo chided lightly. It only made the young lawyer look more depressed.

Hearing no interruptions, the prosecutor continued. "Now, as I was saying, the murder weapon was found at the scene of crime. A guitar, owned by the accused, and coincidentally contained the accused's fingerprints!"

"WHAAAAT?!" Mithra shouted in surprise.

Bloody Guitar added to the Court Records.

"And not only that..." Gaspen added. "...but the defendant also have a motive for committing the crime."

"P-P-POHLKUNKAA!" Mithra was practically sweating buckets after hearing all of this. How could he win when everything points out to his client?

"Now, now. It's still not over yet." Apollo interjected.

"What do you mean, sir? Everything points out to Mr. Reist. And he even have the evidence to prove it." He asked.

"Well, there's still a lot of questions unanswered right now. But first..." Apollo turned his attention to Gaspen who was looking smug. "Prosecutor Payne, I believe you were about to explain to the court about the motive of the accused?"

"Well, yes. But for that, I would like to call out Mr. Reist to the witness stand." Gaspen said.

"The accused himself? You mean he will be testifying for his own motive?" The judge blinked his eye in surprise.

"No, but please. Just play along with it, Your Magistry." The prosecutor explained vaguely

"Hmmm. Well, this is quite strange but I will allow it if the defense are okay with it." He said.

'What's this guy planning? Whatever it is, I don't like it.' The young attorney thought. But he couldn't find anything wrong for now, he decided to play along. "The defense has no objections."

"Very well. The court calls the accused, Mr. Vokaru Reist to the stand." The judge said as he banged his gavel to the desk.

Vokaru was standing at the witness stand, looking nervous and playing with his guitar (badly as matter of fact).

"Uhhh, why am I called here again?" He asked nervously.

"I would like to ask you a few questions if you don't mind." The prosecutor said.

"Uhhh, sure."

"How long have you been married to the victim?" The toupee wearing prosecutor asked.

"Uhhmm, I don't see how this is relevant to the case, Prosecutor Payne." The judge inquired.

"Just indulge me a bit, Your Magistry." He said vaguely.

The bearded man remained sceptical but relented. "Very well. Witness, please answer the question."

"It's been five years, Your Magistry. We first met when we made our performance in a local bar." The blond sighed dreamily.

"Ah, I see. The two of you are musicians, I presume?" The judge asked.

"Yes. I was a wandering musician while Gita was a small-time singer. When we married, we decided to settle down in Khurain, where she was born." Voruka explained.

"Yes, yes, moving on." Gaspen dismissed the statement offhandedly. "Now, witness. Is it true that you have been experiencing some financial difficulties during your marriage?"

"Uhhh, I-I, erm, I don't know what you're talking about?" The musician replied nervously.

'Uh-oh. This can't be good.' Mithra thought.

"And is it true that you have been arguing with your 'dear wife' for the past few months regarding this very issue?" Gaspen pressed on.

"Uh, I, ummm..." Voruka was sweating nervously, obviously uncomfortable with the question. Mithra decided to take matters to his own hands.

OBJECTION!

"Prosecutor! I insist you not to badger my client unnecessarily with your questions!" He exclaimed while slamming his fist to the table.

OBJECTION!

"Oh, but I do insist, defense. My questions are necessary to this case, as you will see later." The veteran prosecutor retorted with a smirk. "It's not my fault that the accused cannot handle the simple truth."

"Grrr, why you..." Mithra growled in anger.

*BANG*

"Objection sustained." The judge said. "But I must warn the prosecution to not make the witness any more uncomfortable than he already is."

"Certainly, Your Magistry. I was just about to make my point." Gaspen stated. "Back to my line of questioning. Witness?"

"Uhhh, yes?"

"What would you do if you were to find out that your wife has been unfaithful to you?" The prosecutor asked.

Voruka jumped in surprise before snarling. "That's ludicrous. My dear Gita would never do that. We were meant for each other! Like Romeo and Juliet! Like Helen and Paris!"

'Didn't they all get killed or something?' Mithra thought with a sweatdrop.

"But what if that wasn't the case? Would you get angry?" Gaspen asked rhetorically as his expression turned into a smirk. "Perhaps angry enough to justify murder?"

"Would you just get to the point already?!" The young attorney growled impatiently.

"My, my. How rude of you." Gaspen clicked his tongue distastefully. "You certainly lack some manners, boy."

"Mr. Ritabrata, I must warn you not to make any outburst like that again." The judge warned grimly. The teen only huffed and nodded. "But the defense is not without merit, prosecution. You certainly have been dancing around the subject for quite a while."

"Very well, Your Magistry. I guess I shouldn't waste any more time." The man took out a picture from his suit. "This photo was found at the crime scene near the accused's belonging. As you can see, the contents are rather...interesting."

The picture showed a woman, the victim, with a man garbed in a trenchcoat, wearing sunglasses and a fedora, making it hard to identify the man. It was then that Mithra made the connection.

Photo of Gita added to the Court Records.

"Ack! You can't be serious." He said weakly.

"Oh, but I am serious. Witness, your 'dear wife' has been cheating on you." Gaspen said with a smug look, twirling his toupee. "And you know about it. In anger, you confronted your wife and -BAM- murdered her in a fit of rage."

The guitarist was visibly disturbed. "No, t-that's not true! I-I never even saw that picture before, I swear."

"Oh, then how did this piece of evidence found itself lying amongst your personal belongings?"

"I-I don't know..."

"I suppose we can take that as your confession, accused?" Gaspen asked snidely. Voruka looked at Mithra pleadingly. His eyes simply screamed 'Please help me. I'm innocent, I swear', but the rookie could only clench his fist angrily. He simply couldn't find a way out. Just as he was about to give up-

"Mithra, I didn't think you would give up this easily." Apollo called out. "I taught you better than this."

"But, sir. Their case is solid. I can't find any-"

"There is no such thing as a perfect case. And I've found a few inconsistencies in his case." The horned haired attorney interrupted.

"Oh, what's this? The Crimson Dragon has found a flaw in my perfect case? I feel insulted." Gaspen interjected mockingly.

The man only scoffed. "If you can call it a perfect case. But I would like to-"

Their arguments were interrupted by a figure entering the courtroom.

"Apologies for my tardiness. I was caught up in a few affairs just now."

The person who entered was a girl, probably around seventeen or eighteen judging from her height. She exudes a majestic aura and her clothing, which clings onto her well-endowed figure, only accentuates the fact. Her green eyes gave her a sharp look, and her hairstyle, while odd, only further enhances her beauty. And to Mithra she was-

'The most beautiful thing I've ever seen.' As he took a closer look on the girl, he realised who she was. 'Oh shit. She's-'

Everyone widened their eye in surprise. The judge then spoke. "Oh, Your Benevolence. It's a great pleasure to see you here. I thought it would be Her Mercifulness who would be performing the Divination Seance."

"Oh, I let Mother handle the affairs for now. It has been quite awhile since I've stepped into the Hall of Justice."

"Oho, I see. Very well then. I don't see any problem with-"

HOLD IT!

Everyone in the court turned their attention to Apollo. "Mr. Justice? Is there a problem?"

"Actually, Your Magistry. I don't think a Divination Seance would be necessary here." He voiced out.

Rayfa, who looked unamused crossed her arms. "And why is that, Horned Head?"

Mithra also looked at his boss and hissed. "Mr. Justice, what do you mean we don't need a Divination Seance? I'm pretty sure we're screwed without it?!"

"Don't worry, Mithra. Just play along." He then turned back to Rayfa who was waiting for a response. "Now, for your question, Your Benevolence. I believe that a Divination Seance is unnecessary here because the truth has already been laid bare to us all."

"Bah! Is this another of your mentor's infamous bluff technique, Mr. Justice? Don't believe any word that crooked menace says, Your Benevolence." Gaspen objected.

Apollo merely narrowed his eyes. "I assure you, Prosecutor Payne. This is no bluff. You can convince yourself a thousand times that your case is infallible, but it is anything but that."

"Urrgh, urg, GAH!" The veteran prosecutor recoiled.

"Hmmm, interesting proposition." The princess had a thoughtful look before a haughty smirk graced her face. "But can you back up your claims, Horned Head?"

Apollo kept up his calm demeanor and answered. "Well, I certainly could, but I think I'll pass this one to my protege, seeing as he is leading the defense for today."

"Yeah, sure...WAIT WHAT?!" Mithra muttered before realising what his mentor was implying.

Rayfa turned towards the long-haired lawyer who was flustered by her attention. She stared at him for quite a while, making him even more nervous. "So this is the apprentice you spoke of. Interesting."

'Wait, Apollo spoke about me to Princess Rayfa?' He thought.

"You." The princess called out.

"Y-yes, Your Benevolence." He stammered.

"...I look forward to seeing your progress in this trial." Rayfa said cryptically.

"...Huh?"

"Very well, Horned Head. Your wish shall be granted. I will be observing this trial from the sidelines." She added.

The judge blinked his eyes in confusion. "Well, this is quite odd certainly, but if you insist, Your Benevolence. We shall commence the trial normally."

"You're on your own now, Mithra." Apollo whispered.

"What am I supposed to do then?" Mithra asked for advice.

"Just like when you observe me for every trial. Find any inconsistencies in the prosecution's case." His mentor answered.

"But-"

"I have faith that you can find the truth, Mithra." Apollo reassured warmly. Mithra, who was nervous before took a deep breath and stared at his mentor with a determined look.

"Right. Thanks, sir. I won't disappoint you."

"I know you won't."

"Now, prosecution. I believe you have a witness ready to testify?" The judge inquired.

"Ah, yes. He's been waiting at the lobby for a while now. Let's not waste any more time, shall we?"

"Witness. Name and occupation, please." Gaspen said.

The man in question was wearing a black leather jacket with similar skintight jeans, complete with black leather gloves to give him the appearance of a punk. His hair was long and had a messy curl, and his skin...was covered in white paint. To make things even more strange, he was currently playing with a drum set (his probably?).

"Yo, yo, yo! Dur'am Perku'us is ma name, and bringing rhythm is ma game, yeah, yeah, yeah!" He screamed while playing his drums...rather loudly.

'Arrrrggghhh, how is this even allowed?!' Mithra whined inwardly. 'He's gonna burst everyone's eardrum at this rate.'

"Aghhh, what in tarnation is this awful noise?!" The judge groaned while covering his ears.

"I'm sorry, Your Magistry, but this man insists on bringing his instruments to the court." The prosecutor replied loudly while covering his ears in pain.

"Witness!" The judge called out. "WITNESS!" The man was still too caught up in his beat. "BAILIFF! GET THE WITNESS UNDER CONTROL!"

.

.

.

"Now, witness. I presume that you have calmed down by now?" The judge said exasperatedly, obviously annoyed by the witness' behaviour.

"Sorry 'bout that, ma J-man. Got a lil' bit caught up just now." The witness said casually, as if not feeling guilty at all.

'Quite the understatement there buddy, seeing as you were about to commit mass murder inside the court.' Mithra sweatdropped. As he observed the man more, he felt something familiar with the witness. 'Where have I seen him before?'

"I don't think he really cares." Apollo said with the same expression as the others.

The judge shook his head. "I never thought that we could find a rival for your Chords of Steel, Mr. Justice." Ignoring the protest from the horned head. "Now, witness. I believe you are here to testify about what you saw when you arrived at the crime scene."

Dur'am nodded. "Of course, J-man. Whatever ya say."

Testimony

*What I saw*

"I was on my way to the scene of crime, ya see. Had some business to finish with dem."

"When I arrived, I saw V-man running out of his house, looking like he saw a ghost or sumthing."

"He didn't even lock the door or anything, so I got curious."

"Once I got inside, I saw Gita there lying on the floor. Dead."

"Like a flash, I dialed the cops. No wait and all."

"Well, I don't find anything wrong with the testimony, but I must ask. What is your relation to the Reist family?" The judge asked.

"'Course, J-man. V-man and I go way back when we were still bringing our rhythms at the streets. In fact, I was the one who introduced those two together." Dur'am answered while playing with his drums, quietly.

"If that's the case, couldn't you have also been suspected of murder?!" Mithra voiced out.

OBJECTION!

"My, my. Are you that desperate to pin the blame on an innocent witness?" Gaspen asked. "Or do I need to remind you about the fingerprints on the murder weapon? Or the picture I presented a few minutes ago?"

"Ack!" 'I had that coming, didn't I?'

"Mithra, if you want to point out any contradiction, do it during the cross-examination." Apollo reminded.

"Yes, sir." The teen said hesitantly. 'Looks like this is it. My first cross-examination. Let's see if I can pick anything odd from the witness."

"Defense, you may begin your cross-examination." The judge announced.

Cross-Examination

*What I saw*

"I was on my way to the scene of crime, ya see. Had some business to finish with dem."

HOLD IT!

"Witness, what is this 'business' you were talking about?" Mithra asked.

The drummer shrugged and answered. "Nuthin much. Just some talks 'bout new gigs and all, if ya know what I mean."

"Is there any point to this questioning, Mr. Ritabrata?" The judge turned his attention to Mithra.

'I don't find anything wrong with it, but I think it will be important later.' The lawyer nodded a yes. "It is quite important, Your Magistry."

The bearded man nodded. "Very well. Witness, please amend your testimony."

"Right on your beat, J-man." Dur'am said. "Now, as I was saying..."

"I went over to talk over about our new gigs. That's all."

"When I arrived, I saw V-man running out of his house, looking like he saw a ghost or sumthing."

'Nothing seems wrong with it. Moving on.'

"He didn't even lock the door or anything, so I got curious."

'Same here.'

"Once I got inside, I saw Gita there lying on the floor. Dead."

HOLD IT!

"Can you clarify your statement on when you stumbled upon the crime scene?" Mithra inquired.

"Uhhh, I'm not getting your rhythm, L-man." The witness said.

"Ummm, what?" The lawyer replied in confusion.

"I think he means that he doesn't understand your question, Mithra." Apollo decided to translate the witness' sentence for him.

"Oh." He realised. 'Is my sentence that complicated?' He cleared his throat before continuing. "What I meant was, what was the time when you found the body?"

The painted man lit up in realisation. "Oh, why didn't you say so, L-man? Sure, why not?"

"I believe it was around 2.45 when I found the body."

"Like a flash, I dialed the cops. No wait and all."

OBJECTION!

"Mr. Perku'us, are you absolutely sure that you found the body at 2.45 pm?" Mithra asked.

"Sure as an arrow, L-man. This noggin' of mine still works great, ya know." Dur'am answered.

"Hmmm, I see." Mithra nodded thoughtfully.

The judge blinked his eyes in confusion. "Is there something wrong, Mr. Ritabrata? Surely you didn't just raise an objection to ask that question?"

"No, it's more than that. It's just...I find it weird that he stumbled upon the crime scene..." He then raised his left arm and pointed at the witness. "...and only to report it FIFTEEN minutes after the murder!"

"W-WHAAAAT?!" Gaspen cried out in disbelief.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

"Is this true, witness?" The judge stared at Dur'am who looked nervous as he beat his drum sets frantically.

"Ummmm, I, urgh.."

OBJECTION!

"Err, ummm, I think the witness was just confused about the time, Your Magistry." Gaspen tried to explain. "P-perhaps he found the body at 3.00 pm, a-and certainly the shock made him confused about the time."

Dur'am who was sweating collected himself. "Y-yeah. That's right. I was just c-confused. That's all, nothing weird."

OBJECTION!

"Wasn't it you who said that you were and I quote, 'absolutely sure that you found the body at 2.45 pm?'" Mithra argued. "And seeing as that noggin' of yours still works great like you said just now, I find it weird that you would make such a vital mistake?" He crossed his arms and gave a smirk.

"Urgh, urgh uhh, GAH!" The drummer was sweating nervously until the drumsticks hit his head.

"Good job there, Mithra." Apollo congratulated. "I knew you could find it eventually."

"Uhhh, thanks, Mr. Justice." He said flustered.

Apollo simply shook his head. "But that's just half of the equation. You need to answer the other half."

"What do you mean?" Mithra was confused with his mentor's words. Sometimes he can be a little too cryptic with his advice.

"Think about it. WHY did he lie to the court?"

"...Oh."

"I believe Mr. Justice has raised a point. Do you think you can find out the reason, Mr. Ritabrata?" The judge threw the question which got him sweating.

'Gee, thanks boss.' He calmed himself down and collected his thoughts. 'Why would the witness lie about the time? There's gotta be a reason. Wait a minute. Could it be?'

*BANG*

"I believe that's enough thinking for you, defense. Have you found the answer?" The judge boomed.

Mithra simply nodded his head. "I believe I do, Your Magistry."

"Very well, what is it?"

"The defense believe that the witness is...telling the truth."

...

...

...

The court was silent and the judge blink his eyes. "Come again, defense?"

"I believe that Mr. Perku'us was not lying regarding the time he found the body." He reiterated.

OBJECTION!

"Have you gone senile? Weren't you the one who exposed this contradiction in the first place?" Gaspen retorted.

OBJECTION!

"I wasn't finished with my explanations, prosecutor. It's quite rude to interrupt someone's conversation, you know." Mithra said smugly. The prosecutor gasped and recoiled in shock. The lawyer then continued. "Now, if we were to take the witness' words as truth, then he did found the body at 2.45 pm, the estimated time of death. Yet, the report was made at 3.00 pm, a full fifteen minutes after the murder. Question is, what was the witness doing in that fifteen minutes?"

"Oh!" The judge's eye widened in surprise. "I believe you're right, defense."

"So, witness..." Mithra slammed his fist to the bench before pointing to the drummer. "...what were you doing in that room between 2.45 and 3.00 pm?!"

"Uh, uh, GAH! Ya got me!" The witness stammered frantically.

"Witness?" The judge asked, confused by the witness' confession. "Are you admitting to something?"

'Woah, I didn't expect him to confess anything this fast?' He thought in surprise. He then turned to his mentor who remained stoic.

Dur'am finally confessed. "I admit that I...tampered with the crime scene."

"...Wait, that's it?" Mithra asked with a deadpan. "I thought you were gonna confess about being the real culprit or something?"

The witness looked at him strangely before laughing. "Hahahaha, you really crack me up right there, L-man. I think you should be a comedian instead, hahahaha!"

"Uhhh, no thanks. I like my career right now, thank you very much." The teen said politely. 'Although I'm probably having second thoughts about this trial right now.'

"But seriously. Why should I confess on killing Gita? I'm innocent, I tell ya. Sure, I did tamper with the crime scene, but that was 'cus I wanted to protect ma bro V-man, but seeing as he got himself caught anyway, I see no choice but to sing out the real truth to the crowds."

"Ummm, what exactly did you tamper from the crime scene, witness?" Mithra asked.

"Well..." Dur'am took out a piece of paper from his jacket and handed it to the prosecutor. "...how 'boutcha sing the lyrics while I play ma beat? That cool with ya, P-man?" The man played his drums as an added measure.

"Ummm, of course." Gaspen cleared his throat before reading the contents of the letter. 'Break it up or suffer the consequences.' What in the world?"

"What is that supposed to mean?" Mithra asked with narrowed eyes.

"Well, L-man. That letter was referring to V-man over there. Obviously his 'dear Gita' is sick of his crap and was about to leave him." Dur'am explained with a smirk.

Letter from Victim added to the Court Records.

The court immediately fell into an uproar hearing the statement. Vokaru looked pale from the accused's bench, seemingly not knowing about this.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

"Order! Order in the court!" The judge boomed, demanding silence from the spectators, he turned his attention to the drummer. "Witness, while you have clearly shown yourself to be guilty of tampering the crime scene, I must have you testify about this letter, so to speak."

"Of course, of course, J-man. The beat's coming right up."Dur'am stated.

Testimony

*Tampering the crime scene*

"When I found the body, I just knew that V-man did it."

"I knew it was wrong, but I gotta protect ma bro."

"I looked around the room and saw the paper lying around V-man's stuff."

"When I read it, I knew it was bad news so I took it."

"It must have been why I reported alil' bit late. Sorry 'bout that."

The judge shook his head distastefully. "While I understand the reason behind your actions, tampering with the crime scene is still a serious offence, witness."

"I know, J-man. My bad, my bad." He shrugged off the judge's words.

The elder magistrate turned to Mithra and said. "Very well. Defense, your cross-examination please."

"Of course, Your Magistry." He nodded. 'Alright, there must something that contradicts the evidence. And I know just what it is.'

Cross-examination

*Tampering the crime scene*

"When I found the body, I just knew that V-man did it."

HOLD IT!

"What made you so sure that it was Mr. Reist who did it?" Mithra questioned.

The witness remained silent for a while before he responded. "I just knew. It was like that thing when you just knew the rhythm is perfect, ya dig L-man?"

The young attorney slumped down and sweatdropped. 'Man, this guy got lingo far worse than anything I've heard before.' He then cleared his throat and pressed on. "Can you explain what that actually means?"

"'Course, L-man. Whatever ya say." The rocker said while beating on his drums.

"I knew 'bout their family issues, so it ain't far off to think that he could be the murderer."

"I knew it was wrong, but I gotta protect ma bro."

"I looked around the room and saw the paper lying around V-man's stuff."

OBJECTION!

Mithra shook his head in amusement. "You know what I think, witness? I think you're a terrible friend."

"What're you blabbering 'bout now, L-man?" The drummer asked in annoyance, although he seemed nervous as his drum beats are more frantic.

"While I don't condone your actions of tampering with the crime scene, and so does the whole court, I must wonder why you took that letter, yet left out another incriminating evidence such as...this behind?" He presented the Photo of Gita to the court, which prompted the expression of surprise to the witness.

"!"

A smirk graced Mithra's face. "Surprised? I was too when the prosecutor presented it to the court, which brings me to one more thing." He gave a deadly stare to the witness who was sweating nervously and presented another evidence, the Bloody Guitar. "If you were trying to cover for Mr. Reist, why didn't you wipe out any PRINTS from the murder weapon?"

"GAH!" Dur'am threw his drumsticks up, this time hitting him on the head.

Once again, the courtroom fell into an uproar. Mithra was happy with how the trial is flowing.

"Looks like you're getting the hang of it, Mithra." Apollo noted with a grin.

"Yup, it seems that this guy got more holes in his testimony than Swiss cheese." The teen said excitedly.

"True, but like I said, this is just getting started. Show me your true potential, and solve this case." His mentor added.

"Right on it, sir!" Mithra nodded in agreement.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

"Order! I will have order!" The judge then glared at the witness. "Witness, I'll have you know. Perjury is a very serious crime. One that you already did twice."

"Uh, I, I was just...ya know.." The witness stammered, beating his drums wildly.

OBJECTION!

"This is absolutely ludicrous, Your Magistry. Whether or not the witness is protecting the accused has no bearing whatsoever to the case." Gaspen tried to object.

The judge shook his head. "I believe not, Prosecutor Payne. The witness has not only been hiding vital evidence from the court but also committed perjury. I'd hard-pressed to think that this has nothing to do with the case."

"Gurgh, GYAAAA!" The 'Rookie Humiliator' shrieked.

'Alright! Now's the time.' Slamming his fist at the table, Mithra tried to convey his points. "Now, that brings us to our next question. If he didn't do it for my client, why did the witness go so far as to hide the evidence?"

"Why, I believe you're right, Mr. Ritabrata!" The judge showed surprise on his face as if he hasn't realised the question before. "And I believe you have the answer to this?"

"...huh?" He asked in confusion, before rubbing his neck sheepishly. "You mean I have to answer it?"

"Of course! You're the defense here, not any of us!" The judge said.

"You haven't gotten that far yet, have you?" Apollo guessed, which seemed correct from his protege's expression.

"Ack! Sorry, just gimme a minute to collect my thoughts." He assured.

"You don't have to think too far. It's pretty obvious there." Apollo advised. "If your client is innocent, then who else could be the culprit?"

Mithra realised what Apollo was implying. "You mean?"

"That's the only way it makes sense."

*BANG*

"Have you found the answer, Mr. Ritabrata?" The judge inquired.

Mithra nodded his head. "I believe I do, Your Magistry."

The magistrate seemed satisfied. "Very well. What is the reason behind the witness' action so far?"

The lawyer paused for a moment before giving out a smirk. "Well, Mr. Perku'us. You've weaved quite the tale to the court just now. I'm pretty sure you can make a song out of it."

The drummer seemed to blush from the 'compliment'. "Aww shucks. Don't mention it, L-man. Everyone knows I can make some sick beat outta anything."

"But it's nothing more than just that. A tale weaved by a crooked liar."

"...Come again?"

"Your actions so far has been anything but helpful to the court. Hiding vital evidence from all of us, committing perjury and for what?"

"I'm not getting your rhythm, L-man. I really don't." Dur'am said in confusion.

"Well, let's put it this way. You said that you did all of this to protect someone from getting indicted." With a slam of fist and a finger point, Mithra's voice boomed to the court. "Well, I say that you're only protecting yourself, MURDERER!"

..

..

..

"WHAAAAAATT?!" Everyone in the court exclaimed, excluding the defense and the witness.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

"Mr. Ritabrata!" The judge called out. "You're not implying what I think you're implying, right?"

"Oh, but I am, Your Magistry." He pointed his fingers at Dur'am who remained silent. "The defense indicts Dur'am Perku'us for the murder of Gita Reist!"

OBJECTION!

"You've gone mad, rookie!" Gaspen spat. "Pointing your fingers at an innocent witness. Just like your mentor, your idiocy knows no bounds."

OBJECTION!

"If you're calling me an idiot based on that assumption, Prosecutor Payne. How about you answer the question? What was the reason behind all of the witness' action?! I dare you to find one that makes complete sense right now!"

"Gurk!" Gaspen recoiled in surprise, having no rebuttals for that.

Mithra crossed his arms and had a celebratory grin. "Speechless, I see? And just so you know, this witness is far from innoc-" Just as he was about to finish his sentence, a drumstick went flying, almost hitting him in the face, instead embedding itself to the wall behind him. "What the-?" He turned to the Dur'am who had a crooked grin on his face.

"I had 'bout just enuf of your crap, punk." He barked.

'So, now I'm a punk?' The long-haired lawyer thought. Everyone was surprised with the witness' change of attitude.

"Witness?" The judge asked, blinking his eyes in confusion. "Are you admitting to the truth now?"

The man snortled. "Ha. As if. I simply don't like punks who think he can mess with ma own rhythm like him."

"Grrr, why you-" Before Mithra tried to lash out, Apollo stopped him.

"Mithra, remember the judge's warning. You can't lash out inside the court." Apollo reminded. Mithra growled but listened to his mentor.

The mad drummer began laughing and played his drums rather loudly (though not as loud as earlier). "That's right, ya punk. Listen to that boss of yours. If ya know what's good for you?"

Apollo was unamused with his antics though. "As for you witness, I think it'd be best if you try to 'make up' an excuse, because you're on our sights now."

"Bah, I don't need to make up any excuse. I'm innocent like an angel, I tell ya." The man remained confident.

"We'll see. But first, Your Magistry?"

The judge lit up at being called. "Yes, Mr. Justice?"

"The defense would like to request for a fifteen-minute recess. There's some evidence that we need to pick up. Which I will discuss with you and the prosecution later."

'Evidence? There's some more evidence?' Mithra thought. His boss seems to have figured out everything about this case.

"Oh. Well, I certainly don't mind. I do have some business to finish right now." The elderly magistrate cleared his throat before continuing. "The court will take a fifteen-minute recess. By then, I hope that both sides have made some solid arguments for their cases."

*BANG*

(Mithra 1st POV)

14 December 2031, 10.30am

Accused Lobby, High Court of Khurain

"Whew, dodged a few stray bullets right there." I sighed in relief. Honestly, I'd been toast without Mr. Justice helping me.

"Well, I'd say that you also dodged a few drumsticks just now." Mr. Justice said jokingly, but I wasn't really laughing.

"So, what's this evidence you're getting us?" I asked.

"Just copies of some medical report. I had Datz to bring it here, so it shouldn't take long."

"Medical reports? What's that gotta do with the case?" I don't think anyone's health is related to the case.

"Well, not directly. But it will get us closer to the truth." Sigh. Sometimes, my boss can be a little hard to read, and that's saying something seeing as I'm a lawyer here. Just then, I heard the door slamming loudly and a familiar voice shouted.

"Hey, AJ! I got whatcha need here!" Mr. Arebal said with a grin, before turning to me and slapping me at the back. Rather harshly. "Eyyy, MR. Good job there just now. You look just like a real deal lawyer there."

"Well, I am a real lawyer, Mr. Arebal." He slumped down hearing me call him like that. He always insists on calling him Datz or Uncle. I quickly changed the subject. "So, can I have a look at the report, sir?"

Mr. Justice, who was focused on reading the report snapped out of his trance. "Oh! Of course. This is for you after all." He gave me a copy of the medical report. When I saw he front page, it said that it was...Dur'am's medical report?

"Sir, why do we need this anyway? What's the witness' medical condition gotta do with the case?" I couldn't help but feel curious.

Mr. Justice simply gave me a smile. "That's for you to find out during the trial. Now, I have to give this to the judge and the prosecution to verify this evidence. Meanwhile, better think up some stuff for later." And with that he left the room. Oh well, I'll just keep reading this report.

Hmmm...okay some fever and all. Nothing new...broken legs...wait...third-degree burns all over the body? I read this part in more detail. So Mr. Perku'us was involved in a fire which gave him the burns? But I don't see any scars at all. Well, I guess that's why covered himself in white paint. There was some pictures attached showing his scars and around. Hmmm, for some reason this looked so familiar. But from where?

"Hmmm, is everything okay?" A voice called out.

I immediately jumped in surprise before realising it was just my client. "Oh, Mr. Reist. Sorry about that."

"It's fine. I'm just thinking about stuff." He seemed a little bit depressed, but that's understandable considering he just found out that his wife cheated on him.

"I'm sorry about your wife." He slumped down even more, and dark clouds seemed to form above his head if that was possible.

"It's just...I can't believe that my dear Gita would do such a thing!" He started bawling and I couldn't help but feel pity for the man. He seemed to have loved his wife dearly, and this is how she paid back? Atrocious. But I don't think he's capable of murder even knowing the fact.

"Ummm, actually. There's something I wanna tell you before, but I forgot." Vokaru admitted meekly.

"What is it?"

The man took out a piece of paper from his pocket. "Uhh, I found this lying around in my house before I left during the day of the murder." I looked at the paper carefully.

"A letter? Hmmm, let's see... 'If you don't want your dear to suffer anymore, come find me.' Wait? This is an extortion letter! Why didn't you tell us about this?!" This is absolutely vital!

Extortion Letter added to the Court Records.

"I'm sorry! I was just too scared to tell! I thought it was talking about me, but after listening to the trial, I think it was for...nah, probably just my imagination." Well, he seems to be thinking about something, but I'll figure it out later. Just in time, the bailiff entered the lobby.

"The recess is about to be over. Please return to the Hall of Justice immediately." I nodded and brought my client with me. It's time for the truth to reveal itself. Show time!

(Mithra 3rd POV)

14 December 2031, 10.45 pm

Hall of Justice, High Court of Khurain

The court was filled with chatters of the crowd, especially after defense's claim of Dur'am being the murderer. Mithra looked calm and ready to go, while Gaspen looked...slightly pale (probably because of Apollo's last-minute evidence retrieval). Dur'am on the other hand was back to playing his drums.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

"The court is now back in session." The judge announced. "And both sides are ready to present their arguments, I presume?"

"Absolutely, Your Magistry." Mithra affirmed with a nod.

"Uh, well. Of course." The veteran prosecutor said.

"Well then. What is your response to the defense's assertion?"

"Well, the prosecution thinks that the defense are grasping at straws, Your Magistry." He explained. "After all, the evidence all points out to the accused, Vokaru Reist. We even have his fingerprints on the murder weapon, complete with the motives to commit the crime. So I say, begone with your foolishness, defense."

OBJECTION!

"Well, it's true that our assertion are merely circumstantial at this moment, there is no denying that the witness here, has the opportunity to commit the crime. Same as my client. And that is what I intend to prove!" Mithra slammed his fist and gave a determined look at the prosecution. 'Funny. I don't feel nervous anymore. I guess I'm already used to it.'

"Hmmm, it seems that the defense had their arguments ready. Very well, let's hear it out. The judge said.

The teen shook his head no. "Actually, I would like to give a chance for the witness to testify in this case."

"Huh? What're ya talking 'bout, punk?" He asked snidely.

"You claim that you are 'innocent like an angel', correct?" He asked, getting gruff nod. "How about you testify to the court about the reasons? Prove to us that you are not the murderer of Gita Reist."

Dur'am paused for a moment before giving out a crooked grin. "Well, I like yer style, punk. You better be prepared cus I'm gonna bring the beatdown of your lifetime, punk!" He bashed his drums as some form of threat.

Mithra simply gave a smirk. 'Hmph, give me your worst, paint man.'

Testimony

*Why I'm Innocent*

"First of all, why would I even kill Gita, man? I got no motives."

"Like the P-man said, V-man was the one who got issues with his gurl."

"And 'sides, ma fingerprints ain't even on the bloody guitar?"

"Punk, ya better give up, cus I'm innocent as an angel."

"Well, I guess this is your turn, Mr. Ritabrata. Your cross-examination please." The judge said.

The young lawyer nodded his head. "Certainly, Your Magistry."

"Remember, Mithra. Use the new information you got just now." Apollo suggested.

"Of course, Mr. Justice. I got this." He assured both his mentor and himself.

Cross-examination

*Why I'm Innocent*

"First of all, why would I even kill Gita, man? I got no motives."

HOLD IT!

"Are you sure you have no motives, witness?" Mithra insisted. "Not even a slight grudge agai-" Again, he had to dodge another drumstick flying at him. "Hey!"

"Ya really don't get it, do ya?" Dur'am asked mockingly. "When I said I got nuthin, it means I got nuthin!" He bashed his drums loudly causing everyone to groan from its loudness.

"Okay, okay. I understand, just enough with the noise." The teen whined desperately.

When the noise was quelled, the judge left Mithra with a warning. "Defense, I think it'd be best for everyone if you stop badgering the witness with unnecessary question."

"Urgh, yes, Your Magistry." He said with a sweat drop. 'I really hate this guy.'

"Like the P-man said, V-man was the one who got issues with his gurl."

HOLD IT!

"Can you clarify your statement about this 'issue' they have?" Mithra inquired.

"Clarify what? Your rhythm's way too off, punk. Even for a real deal like me." The drummer snapped.

'You are far from the 'real deal', I can assure you of that.' He thought with a sweat drop. "What I meant was, do you know anything about their issues, especially the ones regarding Ms. Reist cheating on his husband?"

"!" For some moment there, the witness seemed to tense up before eventually responded. "Oh, that. Of course not. I just knew 'bout it during this trial. Shame on ya, V-man."

"Mithra." Apollo called out in a small voice. "The witness is lying. I'm sure you've seen it right?"

"You mean the moment he tensed up when I asked about the cheating thing? Yeah, I did." He whispered back.

Apollo nodded. "Just now, I saw him messing his beat when he said he found out during the trial."

"Really?! Wow. Your eyes sure are sharp, Mr. Justice." Mithra said impressed. Of course, he knew about Apollo's 'Perceive' ability, but he couldn't help but be impressed every time he saw in action. "But what's that supposed to mean?"

"It means he's hiding something. It's up to you to find out what." Apollo said.

*BANG*

"And just what are you two whispering over there, defense?" The judge asked curiously.

"Ha, probably a way to save their own hide after losing this trial." Gaspen mocked.

"Ya said it, P-man. Those two are too scared after listening to ma sick beats." He laughed raucously.

"We were just discussing the merits of the witness' statement just now." Mithra admitted. "And we believe that it is important for our cross-examination.

"Well, if you say so, Mr. Ritabrata." The judge said. "If you would, witness."

"Ah, sure. Ain't gonna change a lick. Yer still screwed from behind, punk."

"I knew 'bout their money problems, but Gita cheating? Hell no."

OBJECTION!

"So, you really know nothing about Mrs. Reist's infidelity, do you?" Mithra questioned.

"Ya deaf or what, punk? Course I know nuthin 'bout that!" Dur'am growled.

The teen simply shook his head and gave a smirk. "Well, I say you're lying, witness." He then showed the Photo of Gita again. "You remember this?"

"Uhhh, 'course not."

Mithra made a mock thoughtful expression, not believing any of his words. "Well, that's weird. Cause I remember you tensing up when I showed you the picture, as well as the moment I mentioned Mrs. Reist's issue."

"I-I, uh..." The drummer stammered, not having any rebuttal for the lawyer's statement.

"Well, here's what I think is the truth." Mithra slammed his fist at the table, eyes blazing with determination. "You know about this picture. In fact, you know who the man is, do you?"

OBJECTION!

"You have no proof of that, defense." Gaspen retorted. "This is just a bluff to fool the courtroom isn't it?" He gave a smirk, thinking he was victorious, but when he saw the rookie having his own smirk, he had second thoughts.

"A bluff? I assure you, Prosecutor Payne. This is no bluff. In fact, I can show just who the man in the picture is."

"W-What?!" Gaspen was seriously shocked. This newbie can actually prove it?! "I-impossible!"

*BANG*

"It seems that the defense have an explanation in mind." The judge noted happily.

The teen crossed his arms and grinned gleefully. "Of course, Your Magistry. The clue to the identity of the man in the picture is..."

TAKE THAT!

"...there! At the man's neck. We can see an outline that resembles a burn scar."

The judge looked carefully before his eyes widened in realisation. "Oh! You're absolutely right, Mr. Ritabrata. But who could that be?"

"That's simple, Your Magistry. You can find the person by matching another picture showing the same scar. And I can prove it using this piece of evidence..."

TAKE THAT!

"...this picture!"

Dur'am visibly tensed up looking at that picture. "Where didcha get that?!" He looked pissed off about it.

"Well, I'll tell you later, witness. But first, let us compare the burn scars in these two photos. If you would, Your Magistry."

The judge stared at the pictures intently. "Hmmm, hmmm...oh! It looks exactly the same! So who is this man, anyway?"

Mithra then proceeded to explain. "Well, Your Magistry. Interestingly enough, the second photo was from the medical report we submitted as evidence during our recess just now."

"Oh."

"And what is more interesting is that this medical report belongs to none other than..." Mithra pointed his fingers once again at the sweating witness. "...Dur'am Perku'us!"

"W-WHHAAAATT?!" And for the third time, the court was once again thrown into an uproar. The circumstances just became much more insane as the trial went on.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

"Order! I will have order!" The judge boomed once again. He then turned to the defense with wide eyes. "Are you absolutely sure about this, Mr. Ritabrata? The witness was the man the victim was cheating with?"

"Absolutely sure, Your Magistry. Why don't you take a look at the witness now?" Everyone stared at Dur'am who was sweating buckets now. "It seemed that I struck a chord in his nerves just now."

"Uhh, I, ummm, GAH!" He stammered before screaming in anger. "Okay, so I was the one she was with!"

"So you admit it huh? Then does that mean-"

"So what's that gotta do with the murder, huh punk?"

"What?" Mithra asked with narrowed eyes. He is not liking the vibe right now.

"So Gita cheated on V-man with me. How does that make me guilty of murder? If anything, it throws me out of the list since I got no motives." The man gave a dark smirk, but unfortunately, he had a point.

"Uhhh, the point is..." Mithra couldn't really find anything. 'Gah, so close! What went wrong? I had everything right, so what went wrong?!'

"Well, well, well. It seems that the rookie is finally done weaving his tale, huh?" Gaspen said with a mocking smirk. "But it's just that. A tale weaved by a crooked liar."

"Urgh, urgh, GAAAHHH!" The teen slumped down in defeat, unable to give anymore rebuttal.

The judge shook his head solemnly. "In the end, the defense don't have enough evidence to solidify their arguments. What a shame. I guess that will be the end of our cross-examination. No objections from both sides?"

"Absolutely not, Your Magistry." Gaspen said gleefully.

"I-I, I h-have, a-an..." Mithra struggled to speak, his voice unable to come out as a result of fear. 'Is this how it's gonna be? Losing my first case just when the real culprit is within my grasp?'

"Eh, I told ya, punk. You ain't cut out to be a lawyer." Dur'am sneered from the witness stand. "You should try to be a clown instead, cus that's what you are. A joke. Hahahahaha-"

THAT'S ENOUGH!

"...huh?"

"Y-your Benevolence?" Gaspen stuttered.

"Princess Rayfa?" Mithra said. Why would she go down again?

"I came here to see a trial just like that of your mentor, defense. So I expect nothing less than the best from you." She said.

"But I..."

She gave him a sharp look to silence him. "You are a part of the Justice's Law Office, right?" When he nodded, Rayfa continued. "So I expect to see a stubborn attitude from you as well. Just like your mentor, and his mentor as well, Phoenix Wright."

"Your Benevolence.." he breathed out in shock. To think that the Royal Priestess of Khurain had that much faith in him.

"She's right, you know." Apollo interjected.

"Mr. Justice..."

"Remember the motto of our office, Mithra. Remember it, put it deep within your soul, then scream it out for everyone to hear."

Mithra closed his eyes. He remembered the motto, of course. Apollo always said it, after all. It was...

"A dragon never yields."

"Louder."

"A dragon never yields."

"Louder."

"A dragon never yields!"

"Louder!"

"A DRAGON NEVER YIELDS!" The teen instantly slammed his table. "Your Magistry. I have an objection!"

"W-what?!" Gaspen cried out in shock.

"Hmm, interesting." The judge noted. "So, I'm guessing that Mr. Ritabrata is back in this trial now?"

"Apologies, Your Magistry. I was simply...distracted, but thanks to Your Benevolence and Mr. Justice..." He gave the two a look of appreciation. "...I am now back to run the show." He pumped his fist in excitement.

"Bah, you still insists on fighting, punk?" Dur'am said in shock.

Mithra simply crosses his arms and gave a smug look. "Of course. After all, a dragon never yields. They fight until their last breath. No matter how much the odds are stacked against them, they will fight and bring back victory!"

"Well, let's hear it, then. Why in the world would I kill Gita? I'd like some evidence if ya got one." The drummer challenged him.

"If it's evidence you want, then it's an evidence you'll get!" The young lawyer exclaimed back, surprising the witness.

"W-what?! Yer bluffing, right? Ya got no evidence at all? Yer supposed to be screwed!" He banged his drums angrily.

"Well, it's time for me bring my own beat, 'cause this is my evidence..."

TAKE THAT!

"The letter? I thought that was for the accused?" The judge asked in confusion.

Mithra shook his head no. "No, that is simply to confuse us all. Remember, who told us about this letter in the first place?"

"It was the wit-GAH! Gaspen shrieked in disbelief.

"Correct. Dur'am Perku'us himself. He took this letter under the pretense of 'protecting the accused' but we all know that is not the case. So that begs us the question. Why did he take the letter in the first place, if it was for the accused?"

"Well, that is quite strange." The elderly magistrate noted.

"It's actually quite simple. The letter was actually meant for him!"

"WHAT?!"

"And if we were to go by this notion, then it means that the victim actually threatened Mr. Perku'us!"

"Urgh!" Dur'am jerked back from the defense's statement.

"But I'm not done yet, witness. Here's how I think really happened. Mrs. Reist cheating on you was nothing than a scheme plotted by you!"

"Oh yeah, how do ya prove that?" The witness barked angrily.

Mithra gave a smirk which unnerved Dur'am. "Simple, with this." The long-haired attorney took out the Extortion Letter and presented it. "This is my final piece of evidence."

The drummer's eye widened like a plate. "Where did you get that?!"

"Oh, so you know about it? That makes things easier." His statement only made the witness more nervous.

"Mr. Ritabrata, what is that?" The judge asked.

"This, Your Magistry, is an extortion letter directed to the victim, Gita Reist."

"What in the world?!" The judge took a quick look and became shocked. "My word. This is an extortion letter! From who?"

"Isn't it obvious? The witness of course!"

"Pohlkunka!" Everyone exclaimed in surprise.

"With a simple test, I'm sure we can find out that Dur'am Perku'us is the man behind all of this!"

"Uhh, I-I can explain! Just gimme a minute!"

"So, how about that, witness? Think you can one up that beat?!" He pointed to the witness, as if challenging him to give his rebuttal.

Dur'am was panicking, even as he bashed his drums frantically. He realised he has no way out. In the end, he threw his drum sets up, but it ended up falling on his head, one by one, with the last one knocking him out.

Dur'am was immediately taken to the infirmary, and when he regained consciousness, he confessed to all of his crimes. Turns out, he has been taking some of Vokaru's share during their performances, which brought the financial problems in the first place. And Gita, knowing about it tried to help her husband by going with Dur'am, but in the end, she threatened to report his crimes to the police, which forced him to take such drastic measures.

"The witness has recovered and is being detained as we speak, Your Magistry." A bailiff reported.

"Hmm, very good." The judge said. "I must say, that is quite the performance, Mr. Ritabrata. Finding out the truth and apprehending the criminal with ease. In your first trial, no less. I see a bright future ahead of you as a lawyer."

Mithra was visibly flustered from all the compliments thrown at him. "Uh, yes. T-thank you, Your Magistry. I w-was just performing my duty. That is all."

"Hoho, such modesty. Quite remarkable for a young man of your age." The bearded man cajoled. "Very well, seeing as both sides have no obj-"

OBJECTION!

"Prosecutor Payne?" The judge blinked his eyes in confusion. "Is there any problem!"

"T-this is..this is utter lunacy." Gaspen said angrily. "I will not accept this anymore! To lose to a mere upstart like you!" He pointed to Mithra who looked confused. "You! You forged the medical report didn't you, rookie?!"

"Prosecutor Payne, are you honestly accusing the defense of forging evidence?!" The judge was truly shocked at the prosecutor's underhanded ways.

"Well, he was taught by Apollo Justice, right?! Protege of Phoenix Wright, the Forgin' Attorney! Who's to say that he won't go as far as forging evidence to claim his victory?" The prosecutor suggested with a manic gleam on his sunglasses (Because we can't see his eyes :p)

"Are you serious?!" The rookie attorney exclaimed in outrage. "I did not forge this report, nor will I ever do such a thing!"

"Then, where did you get this piece of evidence then?!" Gaspen was seriously grasping at straws, unable to accept his losses anymore. "If you can't prove it to us, then you will be charged for forgery of evidence right now!"

"Urgh!" Mithra recoiled in horror. He couldn't prove that, because he wasn't the one who obtain it. It was...

OBJECTION!

"Mr. Justice!"

"I've had enough of your games, Gaspen." Apollo muttered acidly surprising everyone, even Mithra who was shocked by his mentor's change in attitude. "To think that you would do such a petty trick to claim your victory. You are an absolutely petty trash which must be removed from this sacred hall!"

Gaspen was intimidated by Apollo's fury, but his own anger was blinding him. "Why you- who do you think you are?"

*BANG*

The sound of Apollo slamming his fists to the table was very loud, making everyone yelp in surprise. "Silence, fool! If you want to know who I am..." He showed his right palm which had the tattoo of the Defiant Dragons marked on it. "...I am a dragon. And a dragon never yields. Especially to someone like you!"

"Gah!" The prosecutor was honestly scared shitless of Apollo now, but he held his grounds, thinking that he has the upper hands. "Well then. Present to me proof where you retrieved that evi-OW!" A scroll was thrown at him courtesy of the furious lawyer. "What's this?"

"The proof that you wants."

Gaspen read the contents of the scroll, and became increasingly more pale as he continued. "You got approval from the Minister of Justice?! Impossible!"

"What?! You got approval from Minister Sahdmadhi himself?" The judge exclaimed.

'The Minister of Justice? How did Mr. Justice get approval from that high?!' Mithra thought flabbergasted.

"Of course. You can see them yourself, Prosecutor." Apollo spat the word prosecutor like it was poison.

"Uhh, uhh, I-" The man stammered, unable to reply to the statement. How was he supposed to argue to this?!

"So, you said that you want to accuse my protege of forging evidence?!" Apollo gave a deadly glare at Gaspen, who gave a frightened squeak. "Well, I challenge you then. Charge the Minister of Justice with the same crime! I dare you!"

Gaspen finally couldn't take it anymore and took off from the courtroom, with his toupee left behind.

"Tch, coward." Apollo huffed angrily before realising his own audience who was shocked by his outburst. He simply gave a sheepish smile. "Uhhhh, surprise?"

The judge after having recovered from his shock continued his proceedings. "Ignoring that courtroom drama we experienced just now, accused?"

"Yes, Your Magistry?" Vokaru asked, standing at the witness stand.

"I offer my deepest condolence for your wife and an apology for having you involved in this mess. You are simply a man caught up in the sinister scheme of the others."

"It's alright, Your Magistry. I'm sure my dear Gita is smiling at us right now from the Twilight Realm. And while I still feel betrayed by Dur'am..." He looked down for a moment, shadowing his face, before he looked up again, showing his happy tears and a genuine smile. "..it's nothing compared to the happiness I felt from when I met my wife."

'Love, huh? Wish I could find that sometime.' He thought while unconsciously glancing at Rayfa, who had a smile gracing her face. 'Sigh, nothing more than a pipedream.'

"*sniff* That was beautiful *sniff*." The judge said while crying from the tearjerking moment. "With this *sniff*, I declare the accused, Vokaru Reist..."

NOT GUILTY

From the Pool of Soul, a kaleidoscope of Khurain butterfly appeared and flew upwards, signifying the conclusion of the last rites for the deceased.

"The court is dismissed."

*BANG*

(Mithra 1st POV)

14 December 2031, 12.18 am

Accused Lobby, High Court of Khurain

"Woohooo! MR, you did it! You won your first case!" Mr. Arebal cheered loudly. Well, I don't blame him. I'm pretty happy with the results myself.

"Well, I couldn't done it without your help or Mr. Justice." I would've quit from the start if it wasn't for them.

"Oh, don't sell yourself short, MR. You did great. In fact, you looked just like Dhurke just now when you screamed out our motto."

"Dhurke Sahdmadhi, huh? Guess it must be cool to be compared to the leader of the Defiant Dragons." I actually looked up to him. In fact, he was one of the reasons why I wanted to be a lawyer.

"Mr. Arebal's right, you know." A voice chimed in. I turned to see Vokaru standing with a smile.

"Oh, Mr. Reist. Congratulations for your acquittal, sir."

"Oh, please. I wouldn't have gotten if it wasn't for your effort, Mr. Ritabrata." Aww shucks. I really get flustered too easily.

"Well, what're you gonna do now? You know, since you're not originally from here and your wife is...you know." I didn't want to say it, since it might hurt his feelings again. But surprisingly, he was okay with it.

"It okay. I've gotten used to it." He said. "Well, I was planning on taking full citizenship here, to be honest."

"Really? You don't want to return back home?" I asked, confused.

The man simply gave me a smile and responded. "This is my home now. Where my wife is." Oh. I guess that makes sense. "Well, it seems that I will be going. I'll send my bill to you by tonight, Mr. Ritabrata." Well, uhh, I don't really mind getting paid, so that's cool. And right after that, Mr. Reist left the lobby. As a free man.

"So this is where you've been." A familiar voice said. When I turned back, it was Mr. Justice and...P-p-princess Rayfa?!

"Uh, uh, Y-your B-benevolence! What're you doing here?" And why is she talking to my boss here?!

"Horned Head brought me here. I wanted to congratulate you for the trial just now." She said with a smile that made me mush. To tell you the truth, I've always had a crush on the princess since I was a 12, but seeing as I'm just a no-name orphan, I buried it down instantly. But now she's talking to me and I'm probably blushing up a storm! "Uhmmm, Mr. Ritabrata?"

"Yes, Your Benevolence!" She called my name! And I just realised that she's right in front of me. As in, her face was very close to mine. I'm pretty sure she had to tiptoe to do that, seeing as I'm about 1.75m tall and she's probably almost a head shorter than me. Right now, she was staring at me with her deep green eyes. Her curious look made her look cute, really.

She was staring at me for quite a while before removing herself from my face. "Nothing. As I was saying, you did quite well just now for your trial."

"Uhm, well. I couldn't have done it without your help, Your Benevolence. And I'm grateful for that." I really was. She kinda appeared out of nowhere but she snapped me out of my funk. Without her help, I wouldn't have found out the truth.

"Nonsense. All I did was provide you with the proper motivation. It was only by your own effort that the truth was finally revealed." God, I must be going fifty shades of red now. "And to celebrate for your first victory in court, I would like to offer you an invitation for a dinner with my family tomorrow evening."

"...HUH?" Did I just misheard or something?

"I'm inviting you to eat dinner with my family. I'm sure you can comprehend simple English, right?" She offered. Now, at this point, my mind was blown away.

"You're inviting me, ME, to eat with the royal family tomorrow?

"Mmhmm."

"I'm sorry but I think I have to-" I was about to refuse but a sharp look from her made me reconsider. "I mean, it'd be a honor for me to accept your invitation, Your Benevolence."

"Very well. I will meet you again tomorrow. And please, just call me Rayfa."

"Uhh, but isn't that a little bit too-" She gave that look again which forced me to relent. "Very well, Princess Rayfa." I am not gonna call her just by her name. I mean, that's just...weird. I mean, it's nice and all, but she's a princess, and I'm just a normal civilian. It's just not right.

I can tell by her sigh that she was not satisfied with my alternative. "I guess that should suffice for now." She turned back to Mr. Justice and Mr. Arebal. "I will be leaving then. See you next time, Horned Head. And I hope that you've been behaving yourself, Mr. Arebal." Wow, I guess Mr. Arebal must have been real bad if even the princess know about him. But then again, he was a former rebel, and he was quite famous during the Ga'ran Regime. Mr. Arebal simply gave her a double thumbs up and his usual goofy smile.

When Princess Rayfa approached the door, she turned back one last time and stared at me again. My silver eyes met her emerald green. It was like some scene from a cliche romance novel, but my heart honestly stopped for a moment there. Then, she gave me a smile and exited the lobby, leaving me shocked at what just happened.

"So, you like the princess, eh MR?" Mr. Arebal approached me and teased me right off the bat.

"Uhh, I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about." That's what I said, but my red face wasn't convincing any of the two, from the grin plastered on their faces.

"Okay, that's enough, Datz." Mr. Justice saved me from further embarrassment. Thank goodness. "You can tease him later at the office..." Nevermind. "...but right now we should celebrate for Mithra's victory. So, how 'bout we grab some lunch on our way back? My treat.

"Really?" Mr. Justice never actually treated me, let alone the two of us. He must've been really happy with my victory.

"Of course. I mean, my protege won his first trial. I think that calls for some serious celebration."

"Whoopee. Way to go, MR!" Man, I'm feeling lucky to get people like this around me. I guess for once, Lady Luck was on my side.

"Well, I wanted to try this one restaurant for a while now, so how about we go there?"

I guess that's how I start my career as a defense attorney. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I know that, with the help of people around me, I can deal with any trial, no matter how hard it gets. After all, I'm the third generation of the legendary Phoenix Wright's technique and I have the creed of Dhurke Sahdmadhi inside me. I just knew it.

Court Records:

Evidence:

Author's Note: GAHHHH! Done! Flipping 12k+ people! Shit just got real for me. And I can't even split it off into two chapters. Anyway, that was the introduction of the main character, Mithra. Yeah, kinda bit of a wuss at first, but I'll flesh him out in future chapters. Just so you know, it's freaking damn hard to create a character that fits the AA-verse 'cause they're all nuts in every way, especially the goddamn witnesses! And here are the pun reference if you haven't realised it yet:-

1)Mithra Ritabrata: Mithra is the Hindu God of Oath (hence the title) and something (lol I forgot xD), and since most of the main characters for AA has mythological creatures as their names, I figure why not. His surname is a name for Indians which means the 'seeker of truth' or something like that, and it fits him well with his career.

2)Gita Reist: Guitarist. Get it? Ironic though since she's a singer and she died from a flipping guitar

3)Vokaru Reist: Vocalist. Eyyyyy, okay I'll stop right there.

4)Dur'am Perku'us: Dur'am obviously came from the word drums (duh). His surname cane from the word percussion which is the instrument type of drums.

18/17: I just realised this chapter got so many mistakes, so I'm fixing as much as I can. My eyes are not perfect so I can't find everything, but I did my best.

And yeah, I'm sure you got questions that want to be answered, so don't be afraid to give your review, and if you like my story, follow and fav it, please. It'll be damn cool for me and makes me happier, and who knows, might also make me update faster. See ya next time, readers.

King of Blacks, signing out.