AN: Back again! Today things get hot! Phoenix v. Franziska...how will this go? I think Phoenix will be in for a real ride this case...

I hope you all are staying safe and healthy out there. As always thanks for supporting the story with favs, reviews, and follows. Ideally we'll be done in 3-4 chapters. And then I'll start revisions.

OBSERVER01: Glad you enjoyed! I think it will be one hell of a case too...for a great number of reasons hehe.

DJJ680: Lol, the piece of evidence that breaks the case wide open that no one saw coming.

Jack54311: I won't deny that maybe you did ;). I actually really like Phoenix/Franziska. Phoenix has commented that he does find her cute, and there was the whole matter with the card and Shelly DeKiller that was never resolved on screen, so it's not totally out of left field for me. I'm also a rare minority in how I don't ship Franz and Miles, but people can ship whatever they want, and if we don't like it, don't look at it ! I mean you're talking to someone who's written a small collection of AA crack pairings! Live and let live man. Honestly, I really do think that's the fun part about AA if you like shipping people. Not really a huge shipper of things anymore, but AA has such an interesting group of characters with distinct personalities that one could conceivably find ways to make something work and come up with cool stories/art. It's all supposed to be fun, so let's keep it that way :)

JordanPhoenix: Lol, Lyn just either likes flat out crazy or dickwad probably, Phoenix just doesn't make the cut there haha. It was fun to have Phoenix's motor mouth get him in all sorts of trouble. Fair points, I know you like the pairing so have at thee :). Everyone sees em in different ways. In my head I feel like Phoenix only majored in art and was like semi competent at it lol. I can see him forgetting all his color theory lol. And ultimately it ends up being why instead of going to make money off of art, he instead plays poker...cause his artistic sense was kinda meh.

June 2nd, 9:40 AM

Defendant Lobby No. 5

I arrived early today around 9:00 because I had woken up far earlier than I wanted. I figured I might as well be prepared at court instead of milling around the office. As I waited for the trial to begin, I spent a good portion of the morning reviewing the court record. I still didn't know what to expect. I only figured it'd be a fight to keep alive with Franziska today, but beyond that I couldn't imagine what else awaited in the courtroom.

Absentmindedly flipping through my case notes, the time was now 9:40 with no sign of my client. At the very latest, Lyn should have been brought in around 9:30. I wondered if something had happened.

"Wright."

The familiar deep voice stole my attention away. It shouldn't have surprised me to see Edgeworth over on my side now. I turned my head to see him tread in the lobby, with a stride so serious it almost seemed like he was walking into a funeral home. It was clear to me he didn't sleep well-those sharp gray eyes had lost some of their luster. "Morning, Edgeworth."

"She's not here yet?"

I shook my head. "No sign of anyone. "

He frowned. "The defendants should be here by now."

Of course, I thought the same. But I didn't want to further agitate him-he seemed to be doing a good enough job at keeping himself anxious without me. "...I'm sure everything is fine. They're probably just running a little late."

Edgeworth began impatiently tapping a finger on his arm. I'm pretty sure he wasn't satisfied with my answer, but opted to move on. "Are you prepared for today?"

It was as much a friendly question as it was also a warning to not screw around. "I think I have a good start, but I'm sure there will be a few surprises. Franziska was bragging more than usual and Badd wouldn't tell me about anything in any real detail."

"I suppose you'll have to wait and hear all about it in the courtroom."

"Yep."

And we both knew how that went. Strong testimonies that would need breaking down, like looking for a needle in a haystack. Or more like hay in a stack of needles, when it came to Franziska's whip.

Any conversation died down between us and I returned to browsing the court record. Edgeworth just paced around the lobby, unsure of what to do with himself. I offered him a seat, but he just blew me off, muttering something about how he missed his morning run and needed to redirect his focus.

A few minutes later, the large doors that led into the courtroom swung open, revealing two officers and Lyn. They were holding on to her with a vice grip- it was a way tighter hold on her than most defendants I'd ever seen before.

"Forgive the tardiness, sir. There was an incident at the detention center this morning involving your client," one of the officers said.

"What happened?" I asked.

The other man shrugged. "We weren't informed. We were just told to be careful when transporting the defendant, seeing as her behavior was very unstable and potentially dangerous."

"But for now, she's all yours," the taller of the two said, unlocking her cuffs. "Be ready when you're called."

The two of them returned through the doors, leaving the three of us alone. Lyn hadn't spoken since entering the lobby, and looked about the same as she did yesterday, exhausted. She looked at the two of us and forced a smile.

"Uh, good morning," she said softly, breaking the silence looming over. Actually, I had been wrong. She looked the same as yesterday, minus the new addition of the bandages wrapped around her neck.

"Good morning, Lyn," I replied. "How are you? What happened at the detention center?"

"I'm okay," she muttered as she averted eye contact with me. "Nothing really..."

"Lyn, what happened?" Edgeworth wasn't going to let her off the hook so easily, but his tone was concerned, I dare say even gentle.

"It's...nothing. Don't worry about it," she tried to laugh off, still looking at the ground. "Just some stupid accident."

"What accident? Why is your neck...?"

On reflex, Lyn touched her neck lightly. But her momentary surprise faded into a look of disappointment. Edgeworth didn't finish the thought, as some of the color had left his face.

The woman looked at Edgeworth, hopefully. "You... aren't going to ignore it, are you?"

He said nothing with words, but the gray eyes didn't waiver in their nagging persistence. It was clear he expected an answer. She resigned herself, holding onto her arm.

"I...tried to sleep. I really did. But I felt something gripping my throat...and it wouldn't stop. Nothing made it stop...I couldn't breathe," Lyn said biting her lip. While she had already looked tired, when she began to tremble, she looked all the more fragile."I hit a guard trying to help me. I was so scared I didn't know what I was doing. I couldn't see anything but that...that...awful thing!"

She ran a hand through her hair, taking a sharp breath. Her eyes focused on the floor, as she then started to fidget with her fingers.

Edgeworth, a cross between frustrated and gloomy, grimaced. He stroked her arm and lightly took her by the hand, directing her to sit on the bench. He took a seat beside her.

"I'm sorry...I didn't want to make you keep worrying," she said nervously, playing with her glasses. "But I'm okay now. Really."

"You'll be alright to stand?" I asked her, not wanting to push her if she were this unwell. Those hallucinations...were definitely nothing to scoff at.

"I'll be good," she nodded. "I should be able to handle that much."

"Are you sure?" Edgeworth pressed. "Don't push yourself anymore than you need to."

"I'll be fine," she said with firm resolution.

"Court is beginning," the bailiff announced, peeking his head in through the door for a moment.

The three of us rose to our feet.

"I guess it's time."

"Guess so...let's just get this over with," Lyn said getting a head start.

I followed, but not before Edgeworth stopped me. "Wright...it's up to you now."

I nodded. I knew she didn't do it. I wouldn't let them down. I would prove her innocent no matter what.

June 2nd, 10:00 AM

District Courtroom No. 4

The gallery was filled today- not as much as it had been dealing with celebrity cases, but crowded anyway. It lacked the same excitement it usually had-the people were murmuring amongst themselves as they always did, but the atmosphere felt more restrictive than usual today.

I took a breath to relax myself. Across from me Franziska stood with her eyes closed, arms crossed with her whip. It looked like a lot was on her mind. Behind me, seated in a chair was Lyn. I would have smiled at her as a show of encouragement, but her eyes were cast gloomily down at the ground.

A loud banging sound made me jerk back to reality. The noise from the spectators died down. The judge was now seated in his spot overviewing the courtroom.

"Court is now in session for the trial of Lyn Doom. Is the defense ready?" he asked.

Quickly, I placed my focus back on the trial, nodding. It was showtime. "The defense is ready, Your Honor."

"Is the prosecution ready?"

I half expected the judge to be whipped at that question, remembering how it went before when he dared tried to ascertain the readiness of the prosecution before. But no lashes ever came. Franziska only leaned onto the bench and wagged her finger at him. "It is foolish to believe otherwise, that I would come unprepared. It is the nature of a von Karma to run perfect trials."

The judge blinked, possibly surprised for the same reason I was, but quickly he recovered and didn't question the lack of pain. "...Yes, how could I forget. Very well, Ms. von Karma. Could you please enlighten the court with your opening statement?"

She gave a curt nod.

(Okay, what is going on? Is Franziska that confident? Or has she matured since the last time I saw her?)

"Today we will discuss the happenings on the night of May 19th. At 8 PM, two people entered the Oceanic Bar. One, Lyn Doom, our prime suspect and Two, Kevin Hutchison, one of our victims, a security guard. The two of them arrived together and went their separate ways. The defendant went to meet with whom was initially believed to be Klavier Gavin, but in reality was his older brother, Kristoph Gavin, in one of the few private rooms in the bar. Next door, the guard was present, waiting in case any help was required."

She cracked the whip. "And help was indeed required, but not for the defendant, but rather the guard himself being discovered dead at the scene, along with Kristoph Gavin."

"The prosecution asserts that the defendant, Lyn Doom is the only one capable of committing not one, but two vile murders at the Oceanic club. Decisive evidence, a fair number of witnesses, and strong motive will make clear the defendant's unmistakable, undeniable, inescapable guilt," she finished cracking the whip against the bench.

I could feel the force of the lash hit from the other side of the room. Franziska was not messing around today.

The judge shook his head. "A shame it has come to this."

"...Indeed," Franziska ruffled one of the sleeves of her dress, eyes closed. "But it would not be the first time... someone unexpected has been a criminal all along."

I didn't have to guess who she was referring to.

"Enough foolishness," she whipped the judge, who yelped in response. "The prosecution will call its first witness to the stand."

"Y-yes, Ms. von Karma..." squeaked the judge who banged the gavel. The bailiff left the room.

I stood corrected. Still Franziska...

And it didn't surprise me to see the bailiff returned with Detective Badd who made his way to the stand, still looking as disgruntled as ever.

"Witness."

"Detective Badd of Interpol. Head of the case," he said stroking his chin.

(...Do they have a psychic connection or something?)

Then again, Franziska as she often claimed hated dealing with any sort of tomfoolery, and Badd...well he was like that even more so. I didn't think she would dare whip him, or even so much think of yelling at the guy. He was just that imposing. She said no more, only quietly watching the detective with her whip in a relaxed pose.

"Guess, I'll testify now."

Witness Testimony

Scenes of the murders

-There were two murders at the Oceanic club on the night of May 19th.

-In room 2 of the private lounge, Kevin Hutchinson was found with a slit throat.

-Next door, in room 3 of the private lounge, Kristoph Gavin was found killed by blunt force trauma to the head.

-Both murder weapons have the defendant's prints all over them.

-And that's all you need to know.

Hunching over, I broke out into a cold sweat. I didn't expect anything less, but somehow I found myself expecting more. I knew Badd wasn't a fan of speaking much, but his testimony was ridiculously brief.

"Well, that's rather...succinct," blinked the judge.

Badd shrugged. "Just how I like it."

The judge shook his head, probably unsure of how to deal with Badd. "Mr. Wright, you may begin your cross examination."

"Thank you, Your Honor," I said. I figured I should press everything to get as much information as I possibly could. He wasn't as talkative as Gumshoe so I'd have to weasel out far more.

Cross Examination

Scenes of the murders

-There were two murders at the Oceanic club on the night of May 19th.

HOLD IT!

"So, what time did the murders take place?"

"Between 9:00 to 9:30. Just look at the autopsy reports," he said as both reports appeared on screen to the court. Badd began digging into his pocket. "Anything else?"

"Who reported the murders?" I asked.

"There was one call from the defendant phoning in Kristoph Gavin's murder."

I scratched my chin. "She didn't call about the guard?"

"The only other call made was to the defendant's boyfriend to whom she mentioned both murders. But no other 911 call," Badd said, pulling out his mirror.

"How did the police find the guard?"

"You had to pass his room before getting to Gavin's. And the police couldn't miss him because..."

-In room 2 of the private lounge, Kevin Hutchinson was found with a slit throat.

HOLD IT!

"Was there any struggle?"

"Does it look like there was a struggle, kid?" he responded, presenting Hutchinson's crime scene photo to the court, which had only the guard slumped over in his chair with no furniture out of place.

The judge blinked over and over. "Egads! How gruesome..."

"Gruesome enough for Jeff to add to his forensic crime photo coffee book," he said, staring into his mirror.

I broke out into a sweat.

(Who in God's name would want such graphic pictures as a coffee table book?)

This judge shook his head profusely. "What was the murder weapon?"

Badd presented a bloodied steak knife. "This knife, right here. From the Oceanic. Covered in Hutchison's blood."

"What a way to go," said the judge. "It makes me shiver just thinking about getting steak anytime soon…"

The detective shrugged it off. "It could be worse, considering..."

-Next door, in room 3 of the private lounge, Kristoph Gavin was found killed by blunt force trauma to the head.

HOLD IT!

"And what was the murder weapon in this case?" I asked.

Wordlessly, Badd pulled up a pool cue, it's tip covered in blood. "And if you want to know how he died, this was rammed right through his eye into his brain."

The judge looked like he was about to have a coronary. "My goodness! These murders are certainly vicious!"

"I'll admit that the pool cue, that was messy...Haven't seen anything that intense in a while," Badd admitted, putting his mirror back into his pocket. "But anyway, that shouldn't distract us from the main fact that…"

-Both murder weapons have the defendant's prints all over them

HOLD IT!

"So, the pool cue and the knife have my client's fingerprints on them?"

Badd looked at me blankly. "I'm not going to repeat myself."

"But wouldn't it be natural for her prints to be there? After all, she played pool and had dinner with the victim." To me, that point didn't mean much considering the circumstances...

Yet, the detective didn't bat an eyelash. Once again he shrugged. "Natural or not, her's are the only prints on both items. Seems like she didn't bother to clean up her tracks."

-And that's all you need to know.

HOLD IT!

"I disagree. There's plenty more we don't know and need to know," I said, slamming my hands on the bench.

Detective Badd sighed. "Get to the point. What is it you're not aware of?"

There were a few questions to ask so I started with what was bothering me most. "What is Lyn's reason for killing the guard? Why would she kill someone trying to protect her?"

"The defendant discovered the true identity of Klavier Gavin, killed him, and then killed the guard to cover it up," Badd said matter of fact.

"Mind adding that to your testimony?" I asked, stroking my chin.

-The defendant saw through Kristoph Gavin's ruse and killed him. Then she tried to save her skin by killing the guard.

(I got you now, Badd.)

OBJECTION!

I pointed. "There's a big problem with your statement, detective. You say that Lyn figured out who Klavier really was, murdered him, and then murdered the guard, but the assumption is incorrect."

"How?" he glared.

I presented Hutchison's autopsy report. "Well, let's look at the time of death, 9:05 PM. Now, Kristoph Gavin was murdered around 9:22 PM. Your theory doesn't hold up considering the guard was the first one to be killed. Not Kristoph."

Badd recoiled.

The judge closed his eyes. "I see," he said. "The timing of events is off."

(There we go! One dent into this seemingly perfect case.)

I smirked as I placed my hands on my hips. "Care to explain this problem, detective?"

"Hrn...well that's…" the detective was reaching into his coat with a little less calm than he usually maintained while sweating somewhat.

While I had gotten psyched up, I couldn't celebrate for long.

OBJECTION!

"Allow me to correct your assumption, Phoenix Wright," Franziska said with a hand outreached. "The defendant discovered Gavin first, but did not act until she eliminated the guard. She worried the guard would interfere with her plan to kill Gavin if he caught wind of it."

"That's-"

"Perfectly plausible," she smirked.

"I'm inclined to agree," said the judge.

(And... there goes my contradiction.)

Darned.

Disappointed, I shook it off, pressing my hands into the bench. It was nothing new, having things slip through my fingers. I'd just have to keep pressing on until I found something to hold onto.

"Please continue with your cross examination, Mr. Wright," said the judge.

I nodded. The only place I could attack was towards the end.

-And that's all you need to know.

HOLD IT!

"Another thing you haven't mentioned is the condition of the guard and the benzodiazepine found in his body," I said reading my notes.

"Benzodiazepine?" asked the judge. "What in the world is that?"

"Sleeping medication, Your Honor," I said.

"Oh, he had a sleeping problem?" the judge blinked.

"That is unknown," said Franziska holding her arm. "However, we did discover some sleep aids at his home. That alone does not indicate a serious sleep problem, but proves he had sleep medication."

I scratched my cheek. "Then what is your position on the matter? Do you think he took sleep medication that day?"

"Of course," she said slowly. "It came up during the autopsy report. We're still waiting for the toxicology report for more details, however."

"But why?" I pressed. "If I was guarding someone's life, I wouldn't take any sleep aids that day."

"Some people have foolish actions that make no sense," Franziska said, whipping the bench. "You have seen it in the number of cases you have defended for."

"I can't buy it," I asserted. "There's no way the guard wasn't drugged."

OBJECTION!

"You might believe that, but until the toxicology report arrives you cannot prove that theory...unless you have some sort of proof?"

Dammit. She thought this out. I wasn't going to pretend that I had evidence when I didn't. "...No, I don't."

She smirked. "Then I suggest you focus your foolish endeavors on finding evidence for your case."

Another dead end. I guessed I'd ask Badd the last thing that came to mind.

-And that's all you need to know.

HOLD IT!

"I find it rather interesting that you've left out relevant details about this case," I said stroking my chin.

Badd chomped down his lollipop. "Left out what?" he growled.

I swallowed, but I wouldn't back down. I slammed both hands on the bench. "Well you've only spoken about the murders at the Oceanic. You've failed to mention that my client is a victim as a result of this case as well."

The detective paused. "...She's still alive."

Franziska clutched her shoulder tighter.

"What do you mean, Mr. Wright?" asked the judge. "How is the defendant a victim? Seeing as she wasn't murdered."

"The detective and prosecution have neglected to mention the aftermath of the murders. After my client made the calls, she fled from the bar being pursued in her car by unknown attackers. They were so aggressive that they forced her off the road causing her car to be submerged into the water...effectively drowning her for at least 5 minutes," I said swatting my notes in my hand.

The gallery started to grow noisy at the revelation. The judge banged the gavel a couple of times.

"Well, I'll be!" he blinked. "That sounds awful..."

TAKE THAT!

"And frankly, it's worse," I said, presenting Lyn's medical records. "The result of being underwater for that length of time has left my client brain damaged."

"Detective Badd," the judge started sternly. "Why did you neglect to inform the court of this? This is a crucial detail!"

The detective whose body had tensed up, began to relax, pulling out his mirror once more. "It wasn't relevant to the murders."

"What?" I asked him incredulously. "You're telling me that after seeing not one, but two, dead bodies at the bar, and promptly being chased in a massive car crash isn't related?"

He sighed. "Listen, kid. There's no proof that the people who chased her were connected to the murders. We checked those cars, wiped 'em down, ran plate numbers, swabbed for DNA...nothing came up in our systems. Nothing matched any of the impertinent scenes of the murders. So as it stands now...unless you can come up with some concrete evidence that those people who chased her were involved specifically in the murders...we've reached a dead end."

Even though he wasn't on my side, Badd clearly looked displeased by that last statement. If I could take Gumshoe's word for it, maybe this guy wasn't as terrible as he appeared to be.

"That's why we chose not to mention it in testimony," Franziska said.

Ugh...This was annoying. Beyond annoying, awful actually. It seemed any openings I thought I had were beyond reach. I stared him down, trying to stall for time to wrack my brains to come up with any questions to ask. I had a bad feeling that if I couldn't make a puncture here, I was going to be swept away by a massive wave.

But the judge sensed we reached a conclusion and grew impatient. "I think it's safe to draw this cross examination to a close. You are dismissed, detective."

He banged his gavel and Badd sauntered off the stand.

Damn. This wasn't good. I leaned into the bench, feeling beads of sweat on my forehead. I had no idea what Franziska was planning next, but I had the feeling I wouldn't like it.

"...I must admit, I am almost convinced the trial doesn't need to go on for much longer," the judge said with his eyes closed.

"I'm glad to see you are aware of what a perfect prosecution looks like." Franziska bowed. "I believe soon enough you will be convinced to pass a verdict, as I call my next witness."

Who would she call next...? If I had a seat I'd be on the edge of it, but right now, I was more on the edge of my bench.

Within a couple of minutes the blond haired woman in a waitress uniform appeared at the stand, filing her nails absentmindedly. I should have known.

"Witness," began Franziska, holding her whip folded in her hand. "State your name and occupation for the court."

"Connie Hall. Aspiring actress," she sighed dreamily. "I know that if I could get outta here I'd make it big time-"

Franziska whipped her across the chest without a word. Hall winced in pain as she hugged herself protectively.

"Urk...alright, aspiring actress AND waitress at the Oceanic," the woman grumbled out.

"Testify about what you saw the night of the crime."

Ms. Hall took a deep breath. "Alright. Time to shine!"

Witness Testimony

An Exciting Night

-What can I say? It was a big night.

-Mr. Gavin arrived early, maybe around 7:30.

-The defendant and the guard showed up around 8. I showed the defendant to the room where Mr. Gavin was first.

-After that, I brought the guard to a private room next door.

-I took orders and checked on all the clients down the hall.

-The next time I came back to Mr. Gavin's room, I delivered food and never went back.

-However, I did check on the clientele in other rooms down the hall.

-I didn't see anyone leave their room.

"That good enough for ya? I tried to put as much passion into this as possible. Courtroom dramas are all the rage lately…" Ms. Hall said as the octopus and squid on her apron seemed to jump in excitement. "Maybe you could be my male lead co-star!"

Of course, she said that while winking at me. I placed a hand behind my head, grinning like an idiot. "I'm honestly not much of an actor."

(And being involved with such bizarre scenarios in court is enough for me. I don't think a fictional courtroom drama could match what I go through regularly…)

CRACK! CRACK! CRACK!

"OW!" I yelped out as the swearing pain of the whip slashed into my chest.

"Phoenix Wright, you will focus on the trial! You act as a foolish fool enough as it is! You have no more need for theatrics!"

The judge nodded. "Indeed. Mr. Wright cannot star in a courtroom drama unless I get to be there too. I've actually always wanted to be a bailiff-ARRGH!"

The whip didn't hold back on the judge either...

"Phoenix Wright, you will begin your cross examination. Now!" Franziska demanded as she cracked her whip on the bench.

Cross Examination

An Exciting Night

-What can I say? It was a big night.

HOLD IT!

"Why was it a big night?" I asked curiously.

"Well we had a couple of big shots make reservations that night. It was a good chance for little ol' me to see real stardom before my very eyes!"

"So who were these 'big shots'?"

OBJECTION!

"The identity of the other clientele is of no significance at this moment. Until it is proven important, it's none of your business."

(Hmm. She seems pushy about the identity of the other people in the rooms...)

But I'd come back to that point later. It was best to get all the information I could first.

"Alright, then it's safe for me to assume that one of these big shots was 'Klavier Gavin'?"

"You know it," she said, filing her nails and then blowing on them. "I was supes excited to be taking him to his room."

-Mr. Gavin arrived early, maybe around 7:30.

HOLD IT!

"So what was he like when you saw him?"

"He seemed cool!" she grinned widely. "But I had to admit, he did seem a teensy tiny bit bothered by something. Didn't think it was right to pry, though."

"Why do you say he was bothered by something?"

Ms. Hall started to file. "Well...it's hard to explain. But have you ever seen someone who was trying hard to be cool and collected, but was breaking? He might have been smiling and stuff, but he was sweating and kinda antsy. Didn't think much of it though. Thought he had a hot date or something."

"Is this relevant, Mr. Wright?" asked the judge.

It had to be. "...It is, Your Honor."

"Witness, please add this statement to your testimony."

"Yes, your highness!"

-I met Mr. Gavin but he seemed really anxious and nervous about something.

HOLD IT!

"Besides his demeanor, did Mr. Gavin say anything to imply his state of mind? Anything unusual? Out of the ordinary?"

Ms. Hall closed her eyes, while the sea creatures on her blouse suddenly appeared to have question marks floating above their heads.

"Ah! Actually, yeah. He really, really, really, really, wanted to know…"

I leaned into the bench in anticipation. "Yes?"

"To know….."

"Yes?" asked the judge.

Franziska, unwilling to go along with this, whipped Ms. Hall."

"Ow!"

"Get on with it!"

"You messed up my dramatic moment of anticipation!" Ms. Hall pouted.

"If you do not continue your testimony normally, like a good witness should, you will be receiving a dramatic moment of anticipating 10 more lashes from my whip," Franziska said, raising the leather whip over her head.

Ms. Hall frowned with giant tears welling up in her eyes. "Guess you'll just have to see my incredible range another time," she sniffed.

(Let's not.)

"Anyway," she said. "He really wanted to know, and make sure of the fact that the private rooms were indeed private. He asked me, I'm sure at least like 5 times."

"That...sounds really paranoid. Did he mention why that was important?"

"He only said, it was a very special meeting and it was important he wasn't disturbed in any way shape or form."

(Hm…)

"Actually, you said he arrived at 7:30. How long did you speak to him for?"

"Um...I think about 15 minutes. I chatted him up about, you know, living that superstar life. Though, it's kind of a bummer knowing he was a fake now... Anywho, I brought him to his room and I was reminded to wait for his friend as he made the reservation for two."

"What happened next?"

-The defendant and the guard showed up around 8. I showed the defendant to the room where Mr. Gavin was first.

HOLD IT!

"Did you notice anything unusual about my client or the guard?"

She began filing her nails with a snort. "Nothing besides how that guard had enough hairspray in his hair to stop bullets. The girl was a bit plain. For how Mr. Gavin was freaking out, I thought she'd be a supermodel or something...so in other words, nope."

-After that, I brought the guard to a private room next door.

HOLD IT!

"Are all the rooms back there the same?"

"Yes and no," Ms. Hall said. "There are 4 regular rooms, like the private room the guard and the defendant were in. But there is one special room, much larger than the others on the other side."

"Huh?" I looked at her in confusion. "But I only saw the 4 rooms and the bathroom."

"That's because the 5th room is under construction. It had a fire in it a few months ago, so it's in the process of being rebuilt and refurbished. It's sorta easy to miss with all the police flooding the halls, and how the color of the walls and door are the same," she noted.

-I took orders and checked on all the clients down the hall.

HOLD IT!

"How many clients were there that night?"

"Uhh, pretty sure it was five."

"So in the very least there are two other potential suspects."

HOLD IT!

Franziska shook her head, wagging a finger at me. She leaned over on the bench with a smirk.

"It seems some things do not change even while I have been away. There is no room for your foolish speculation, while you have no substantial proof to back it up."

-The next time I came back to Mr. Gavin's room, I delivered food and never went back.

HOLD IT!

"Why didn't you go back?"

"He specifically told me not to. He gave me a mighty fine tip and I buzzed off after I dropped off their food."

(Is there anything else I want to ask here...?)

"Can you tell me about the defendant and victim at the time you brought the food?"

"Um...nothing interesting really," Ms. Hall shrugged. "They both seemed to be having a good time."

"What did they order?"

Her eyes went up to the ceiling, as she tapped the file against her cheek. "Steak, mashed potatoes...some sorta leafy green vegetable I don't like. They both got the same thing. Minus some wine, the defendant got."

That wasn't what I was looking for. Maybe this would be it. "Can you tell me about the state of the room?"

"Huh? I mean, it was perfectly neat and clean. Not a dust bunny in sight!"

"Your Honor, the witness just said something very important," I pointed. "I'd like for her to add it to her testimony."

The judge nodded. "Witness, please add this statement to your testimony."

-The room was nice and clean, nothing was out of place.

HOLD IT!

"And you're absolutely certain of that fact?"

"Oo, that sounded really cool just now!"

"H-huh?"

"That lawyer lingo and your delivery! Flawless!"

"Erm, thanks…" I flushed, placing my hand behind my head. "But can you answer the question…?"

"You'll have to show me your pointers after! But anyway, yes...everything in that room was perfectly tidy."

I smirked to myself.

-However, I did check on the clientele in other rooms down the hall.

HOLD IT!

"Did everyone order food?"

"Yeah, everyone except the guard. He only wanted a glass of water. Heck there was even one person who ordered not one but two steaks!"

"Talk about hungry…" I said, feeling the sweat dripping from my forehead.

"I'll say! It made me jealous they could eat so much, honestly…" she frowned. "But regardless of that…"

-I didn't see anyone leave their room.

HOLD IT!

I slammed my hands down on the bench. "That not only contradicts my client's account, but also the prosecution's telling of the events. Ms. Doom left the room to use the bathroom. In order for her to allegedly murder the guard, she would have needed to leave the room according to the prosecution."

"That's a little flat," Ms. Hall said, filing her nails with far more interest than me.

"Listen, darling. It's not like I stand lingering out in the hallway after delivering meals. Most of them I delivered around the same time and even so, these are indeed, private rooms. Its occupants usually don't want to be bothered. I'm not saying she didn't leave the room. I'm just emphasizing how I, personally, saw no one leave for the times I was passing through."

"Is there a problem with this statement, Mr. Wright?"

I frowned. Ms. Hall had clearly thought it out. There was nothing I could attack here.

"No, Your Honor," I shook my head. It didn't matter, however. There was one glaring contradiction I needed to be focused on.

-The room was nice and clean, nothing was out of place.

OBJECTION!

"Ms. Hall," I began, slamming my hands on the bench. "I find that statement a little strange. Is your acting slipping?"

"That can't be! I rehearsed this perfectly!" she said nervously holding the nail file between her teeth, while the sea creatures on her apron spazzed out.

"It's just an odd thing for you to say 'the room was nice and clean' with nothing out of place, when in fact there was something obviously wrong. That being this broken window thanks to a rock," I said presenting the evidence to the court.

"H-huh? ...But I didn't see that! That wasn't there when I brought their food, I swear!"

"Perhaps, the witness foolishly missed the sight of it with the pool table being in the way."

"NO! Listen here, whip lady!" Ms. Hall snarled, pointing her nail file menacingly. "I didn't miss ANYTHING! There was no broken window when I went in! I know this place inside and out! When we are short staffed I gotta help tidy up, so I definitely would have noticed if something were amiss!"

"I don't believe Ms. Hall is lying," I said. Her reaction was too genuine for it to be false. "And if that's the case, someone must have thrown the rock sometime after Ms. Hall delivered the food."

The judge closed his eyes. "I see. Then when was the window broken?"

It left me with a few options. After the murder didn't make much sense, so I eliminated that. Therefore, it could only be…

"I believe the window was broken a little before the murder."

"And for what purpose? Why was a rock thrown before the murder?" the judge grilled me.

What were our options now? I scratched my temple.

Vandalism? No, unlikely. It would be too much of a coincidence that vandals just happened to be there and aim for the room in which a murder took place.

The other only logical choice was…

"It was meant to be used as a distraction," I said with my hand under my chin. "There's no other reason for it."

OBJECTION!

"A distraction how?" Franziska asked me, rolling her eyes as she tugged on her wound up whip. She presented Gavin's autopsy report. "Did you already forget that the pool cue was reamed through his skull?"

OBJECTION!

I presented the crime scene photo of Kristoph Gavin. "No, I didn't forget. But I just remembered something I thought was odd about this picture, that will help me illustrate my point."

Franziska wasn't impressed, as she cracked her whip on the bench. "This had better not be one of your foolish bluffs, Phoenix Wright. Show where this anomaly with the photo is. "

Nodding, I focused my view on Kristoph's slumped over body on the pool table.

TAKE THAT!

I pointed to Kristoph's back, where there was a small gash in his jacket. "This right here is the weird part. I know he was killed directly up front, yet there's this hole in his back."

"That could have been there the whole time!"

OBJECTION!

"Kristoph and his brother for that matter, seem to dress impeccably. I very much doubt, Kristoph Gavin would have been trying to masquerade as his brother with tears in his clothes!"

"But Mr. Wright," began the judge. "How does this tie in with the actual murder, when we know the victim was killed in a direct confrontation?"

"Yes, explain!" Franziska demanded, slamming her fist into the bench.

(Alright! It looks like things might be shifting in my favor now. I need to get this right...)

Drawing from the notes I had in my hand, I began my theory.

"I think it went something like this: Ms. Doom had left the room, leaving Mr. Gavin by himself. Mr. Gavin heard the rock crash through the window in the room. Going to investigate it, he turned his back. And as his back was turned, he was attacked from behind. It startled him and he quickly moved away from whoever had tried to attack him...but his attacker grabbed the pool cue nearby and confronted him directly."

OBJECTION!

"Let's pretend I believe this foolish theory of yours for a moment," Franziska glared. "There are two things wrong with it."

"Oh? Please enlighten me."

"For starters, this would imply that there were two conspirators to this murder. The defendant cannot be in two places at once. Additionally, what would the victim have been attacked with? The only weapons recovered were the pool cue and the steak knife used to kill the guard."

"Well, Mr. Wright, do you believe that there were two conspirators to this murder?" the judge asked.

She brought up a good point. Whoever threw the rock and whoever murdered Kristoph had to be two separate people.

"I agree," I nodded. "There was more than one person involved in Mr. Gavin's murder, though my client was not one of those people."

"And what about the weapon? We need to see proof that you are not just bluffing," Franziska said, holding the whip over her head.

(Well, there was one thing I had in mind…)

TAKE THAT!

"Here's your weapon number three," I announced presenting the hidden knife Kay found in the potted plant.

"W-what...what is that? Where did you get that?" Franziska started sweating, fist balled up onto the bench.

I smirked as I placed my hands on my hips. "This was found in same room Mr. Gavin was murdered...hidden in the dirt of a plant."

"Well, I'll be!" blinked the judge. "That's no place for a knife."

"I believe that this was the knife used to rib Mr. Gavin in the back."

OBJECTION!

Franziska was fuming. "I...I cannot accept that as true until we run testing for blood and fingerprints!"

"And I believe that's the right course of action," I smirked. "It would probably take some time to test...Therefore, I request that court end for the day, to not only allow time for testing but to allow more time for looking into the other mystery person involved with this murder. Even if you hold onto the belief my client is the killer, you cannot deny the broken window as proof of another unknown person on the scene! We can't come to a full conclusion without examining all angles!"

"...Uh, hey. While this lawyering stuff is cool to watch, I don't think I'm really needed here now...right?" Ms. Hall piped up.

"Oh dear," the judge shook his head. "My apologies, witness. I believe you are correct."

He brought down his gavel. "You're dismissed."

"Thank you!" she said relieved, happily bouncing off the stand with bailiffs.

The judge cleared his throat. "Now, where were we? Ah, right. Extending the trial for a day...I am in favor of doing so-ACK!"

Franziska whipped him twice and then whipped me five times.

"YEOWCH!"

"You...foolishly, foolish, fool of fools! Phoenix Wright! You will not ruin my perfect trial!" she pointed. "Today is where this ends!"

"But you need to test the knife-"

OBJECTION!

"And that will be no problem. Detective Badd!"

Within a few moments, the hardened detective appeared at the stand.

"Give that to me," he said without missing a beat. Franziska passed the hidden knife to Badd. "I'll take this to the lab for testing now. I'll be back."

As soon as he came, just as fast did he exit the court.

"Erm, well, Ms. von Karma. If you're insistent on continuing the trial...what shall we do now?" asked the judge skittishly. He looked ready to nose dive at a moment's notice to avoid any more lashes.

"I admit, I did not think I had a need to go this far ahead for I believed this trial would be over by now. However," she smirked as she wagged a finger in my direction. "I did not come without a plan. That said, I would like to call my next witness to the stand."

I leaned into the bench. I knew this wasn't going to be easy today, but I didn't think I expected to fight down to the tooth and nail like this.

But if she wasn't backing down, neither was I.

"...The prosecution will call the defendant to the stand," Franziska said, whipping the bench.

What? She was calling Lyn? A knot in my throat formed. ...No. I definitely did not like this. But since she was in the room and alright to stand, I couldn't stop it. Lyn stood up from her seat, eyes wide, her mouth slightly open. She hadn't expected to be called, but was obliging without issue as she slowly approached the stand.

Once situated, Franziska directed all of her fierce attention to Lyn. "Defendant," she began.

"Yes?" Lyn asked, holding onto the stand to steady her shakiness.

"There are a few questions I'd like for you to answer," Franziska said. "Let us begin by you explaining your relationship to Kristoph Gavin."

Her lips curled downwards. "I...It wasn't good. Most of you are already aware of our bad blood. We didn't like each other at all."

"And your relationship to Klavier Gavin?"

"It's far... more friendly," Lyn said, pressing her glasses up on her face.

"Would it be correct to say that you were afraid of Kristoph Gavin?"

Where was Franziska going with this?

"...Yes. After a particular case which led to his suspension of law practices, a lot of stuff started happening."

"Such as?"

Lyn cast a glance to the ground a moment and sighed. "My car being broken into and vandalized...then people breaking into my apartment and doing the same thing. It was to the point I moved in with my boyfriend."

"...Because you were concerned about Kristoph Gavin."

"Yes."

"And you would have never decided to meet with him, knowing it was Kristoph Gavin."

She shook her head. "No, I would not."

So she was setting a scene. I doubted she'd be as bold to suggest outright it was her fear that drove Lyn to kill Kristoph, but she was certainly implying it. She wasn't leading, so there was nothing to protest.

"I see," she said. "Could you tell me what happened this morning at the detention center?"

Lyn started to cough. "W-what...?"

"This morning, you were involved in an incident involving a guard. What happened?"

She started to tremble now. "I-"

OBJECTION!

Crap. I knew where this was going. I slammed my hands on the bench. "What happened this morning bears no relevance to the case at hand."

"I'd say it does," Franziska said, raising the whip above her head. "Defendant, answer the question."

OBJECTION!

"My client does not need to answer a question about an event that took place this morning," I pointed. "We need to be focused on what happened weeks ago, not today."

"Ms. von Karma what is the relevance of the defendant answering your question?" the judge asked.

"I believe it will help us get a more clear picture about our murder cases."

"...Very well. I will allow it," the judge said. "Please answer the question."

OBJECTION!

This was character assassination. That's what she was going for if she was bringing up this morning. "Your Honor, this is going to go nowhere-"

"Mr. Wright," snapped the judge. "Your client will answer the question! Anymore protests out of you and you'll receive a hefty penalty."

"Gah..." Well, I tried. It was only in frustration that I retreated.

"This morning...I ...had a bad...dream..." she started with shaky, shallow breath. "It...choked me...and I ... I tried to fight it off..."

"What choked you? What is 'it'? "

She coughed again and again covering her mouth. "The...the...shadow...it was the shadow!"

"How...just how do you know...?" Franziska gripped her shoulder, sweat now pouring off her face.

I furrowed my brows. What was Franziska getting so freaked out over?

"How do you know what that is?" she snapped.

But Lyn wasn't listening to her. She was too busy coughing, and those coughs sounded worse and worse.

"Lyn..." I called out to her.

"Not...again…" she said, in between coughs.

She clutched her neck for a moment, before letting go and leaning on the stand for support. Once her hand was removed, a red smear was all over the white bandages.

Blood.

No mistaking it.

Getting out of her own stupor, Franziska straightened up. "Doom! Judge...call for a recess!"

"Bailiff! Take the defendant to the waiting room and call the medics!"

June 2nd, 11:16 AM

Waiting room, courthouse

After rushing out of the courtroom, I made my way back to the other side of the courthouse where witnesses usually watched the trial.

By the time I entered the room, Lyn was sitting upright on the sofa being treated by a medic with an oxygen mask.

Edgeworth was already there.

"How is she?" I asked him.

"...As good as one can be under these circumstances," he remarked dryly, turning to face me. "I'm told that episode was caused by the pneumonia she has exacerbated by a lack of sleep and incident from this morning."

I frowned. "Will she be alright?"

"Yes, but for the rest of today's trial she'll remain here."

I exhaled. At least she would be okay. That was the most important part.

"Well, now I'm unsure of where the trial is headed since this happened."

"I've an inkling of where it might," he said arms folded. "Franziska didn't seem pleased when Lyn mentioned 'the shadow'."

That's right. She hadn't expected it. "She definitely freaked out...I'm guessing she knows something about it."

"...This is where Seeker will come into play," he said, lips pressing into a hard line. "And while you've made some progress thus far, today's trial isn't over yet unfortunately."

Of course, it wasn't. I had a feeling the fight was really just beginning now.

"Alright folks. Think that'll do it," the medic said taking the mask back. "Remember to take your antibiotics, sleep...and to avoid things that agitate you. If you do those things your recovery will speed up, understood?"

Lyn nodded. "Yes, I'll do my best. Thank you."

He packed up his things, spoke to Edgeworth briefly, and left.

"How are you feeling?" I asked her.

"A lot better now," she said with a small upward curl on the corners of her lips. "But kinda tired…"

"Get some rest," Edgeworth coaxed.

"Huh? But I don't want to miss the rest of the trial."

"I will inform you of all the details," Edgeworth said, taking a seat next to her. "And besides you know that you don't sleep well at the detention center."

She only replied with a big fat frown.

"...If anything happens in your sleep, I'm here."

"...Alright." While the frown hadn't totally vanished, her posture relaxed a bit more at those words.

"So what do you think of the trial so far?" I asked her.

"It's...very surreal on a number of levels. You know, playing the games was fun. Actually being in the defendant's seat...now I know the dread everyone feels when their ass is on the line. I trust you, but...it's like a rollercoaster ride I can't get off of," she remarked sweating bullets.

"Sorry," I said. "It happens more often than not."

"It's not really your fault," she sighed. "I'm sure Ms. von Karma hates my guts. You know, since the trial is STILL happening!"

"Well, hang in there. It's only just beginning."

"Oh boy," she said leaning against Edgeworth. "Maybe going to sleep and not waking up any time soon might be the better option after all."

I was about to reply, until I was stopped by the loud sound of a whip cracking against the floor.

(Uhoh.)

"Phoenix Wright," she pointed dramatically.

"Franziska," I remarked just as pointedly.

"I am told that Doom is in a stable condition. And as such the trial will be resuming in ten minutes."

She turned her attention to the couch. "Doom."

"Ah...um, yeah?" Lyn carefully met Franziska's gaze.

"...How are you doing?" I had to admit it was somewhat surprising that Franziska was even asking. But then again, I knew her open hostility was an act.

"Better."

"I see," she said, closing her eyes. "I am glad...however, I am still convinced of your guilt. You will receive no pity from me."

"Can't say I expected any different," Lyn muttered to herself.

"Why do you know the shadow…?" she asked again, though this time far calmer.

Lyn averted her gaze, without responding.

"I believe that should be saved for the courtroom. Or an interrogation room," Edgeworth cut in.

"Hmph. I suppose that is true," Franziska said with a small smirk. "It seems sense has not entirely left you yet, Miles Edgeworth."

"Why do you believe Lyn did it?" I asked her.

"Isn't it obvious?" she cracked her whip against the ground. "The evidence...I am not so foolish as you or my little brother to not doubt even people I have an affiliation with. This way I know I'll achieve the perfect truth."

Well, I'd just have to change her mind.

"I believe in Lyn's innocence, so I won't back down."

"Then it will be my hard fought victory over you," she glared. "We will finish the rest in the courtroom."

With that she strode out of the room.

Lyn sighed. "Man...the next interrogation will be better than the last one if we survive today."

"Pay her no mind," Edgeworth said. "She'll see the truth soon enough."

Speaking of soon, I figured it was best I headed back over to the defense lobby to mentally prepare myself for whatever was coming next.

"I'm going to prepare for round two," I said, stepping out of the room. "Hang tight."

"Go kick her ass for me!" Lyn called.

It was more likely that she'd kick my ass with her whip, but I'd do my damnedest.

Evidence:

Attorney's badge: It's my all-important badge. It shows that I am a defense attorney.

Autopsy Report #1:For Kevin Hutchinson. Estimated time of death 9:05 PM. Cause of death slit throat. Died within 1 minute. Traces of benzodiazepine discovered in system.

Autopsy Report #2: For Kristoph Gavin. Estimated time of death 9:22 PM. Cause of death blunt force trauma to head. Died instantly.

Crime Scene Photos: Show Kristoph dead on the pool table and Kevin slumped over in the chair.

Seeker Tabloid: Article that talks about Seeker's goals.

Lyn's Medical Documents: Discusses the injuries and damages she sustained from the car crash, as well as medication taken.

Hostage Newspaper Article: Discusses the hostage taking at the prosector's office.

Lyn's Journal: ...Has some interesting personal details.

Kristoph's Journal: Contains instructions and information about the Seeker organization.

Bloody Pool Cue: Murder weapon that ended Kristoph Gavin's life. Lyn's prints are on it.

Broken Window: A rock was thrown through the window, and one has to wonder why...

Listening Device: Found under the table in private room 3 where Kristoph Gavin was murdered.

Hidden Knife: Steak knife found in a plant pot in private room 3. Has no blood.

Black Scrap: Burned fabric found in the fireplace.

Bloody steak knife: weapon used to murder Kevin Hutchinson. Lyn's prints are on it.

Profiles:

Maya Fey: Age 19. A close friend. Used to be my assistant before leaving to become Master of Kurain.

Trucy Wright: Age 8. My adopted daughter. Already dresses the part of a magician to the hilt.

Detective Badd: Age 53. In charge of the Interpol investigation. Very gruff.

Franziska von Karma: Age 19. Prosecutor in charge of this case. Working with Interpol.

Kay Faraday: Age 17. Claims to be the Yatagarasu. Edgeworth's mischief making assistant.

Detective Gumshoe: Age 33. Homicide detective at the local precinct.

Lyn Doom: Age 25. My client. A feisty prosecutor who helped saved my badge.

Miles Edgeworth: Age 27. A close friend. A well known prosecutor.

Kristoph Gavin: Deceased. The attorney who tried to revoke my badge. Pretended to be his brother the night of the murder.

Kevin Hutchinson: Deceased. Body guard hired to look after Lyn the night of the murder.

Klavier Gavin: Age 17. Star prosecutor and leader/vocalist for the rock group, the Gavinners. Still alive.

Eva Green: Age 36. An obsessive dentist, witness for this case.

Judge: Age ?. Judge who presides over my trials.

Connie Hall: Age 29. Waitress at the Oceanic who dreams of being a Hollywood actress.