Note: This Pheonix Write story is based AFTER the first game. If you have little to no clue about what occured during the game, you won't have to worry very much. This story has little to no references to the first game, and therefore you won't miss very much.

Chapter 1 - Prologue

My name, is Pheonix Wright. And I am a defense attorney.
It had only been two months after Damon Gant's testimony in trial, and his eventual conviction... This left the Police Department without a Cheif, and sent the entire station into dis-array. It was about this time that I wanted to take a vacation to clear my head and battle some inner demons. But there was something that held me back. There was a phone-call. One that would soon, near end my life.

* * *

January 14, 12:02 PM
Pheonix Wright & Co. Law Offices

* * *

Day-light shone peacefully through the window of Pheonix's office; The young attorney was sat at his desk, idly reading from his computer screen. His appearance hadn't changed at all; The same back-spiked black hair, the same blue suit, red tie, and white dress shirt underneath, and the same gold, shiny Lawyer's Badge attached to the neck of his shirt. Only two month's since his last case, concerning Lana Skye the General Prosecutor, had passed, and he hadn't taken a single case since. Many high-end offer's, but he simple refused them all. Pheonix couldn't understand his reasoning; He wanted to say he'd defend them, but his mind and mouth worked in two different tandems. With no way of income, and him alone working in the office, it seemed like only a matter of time until the entire office would be shut down. His line of thinking was abruptly ended when his cell-phone began to ring lightly, giving a few, high-pitched and obnoxious calls for him to answer.
"Ugh." Was the only thing he uttered before he reached for his phone; It slim and sky blue in color, and hitting the answer button. "Hello, Pheonix Wright & Co. Law Offices, this is Pheonix." He said lightly into the speaker, assuming it'd be another case he'd be asked to defend.
"M-M-M-M-Mr. Wright..." It was a female's voice; Quite young, and sounding quite scared. "Y-Y-You have to help me..."
"Hello?" Pheonix sat up a little more straight, eyes blinking.
"P-P-Please...! I d-d-don't want to die... Not here... N-Not now...!"
"Who is this?"
"On-n-nly you can help m-m-me... I'm b-b-begging you... Please!" The other end lightly clicked off, and a dead phone-tone sounded in his ear. Pheonix looked down at his cell-phone with curious eyes, head tilting to one side; His eyes as vibrant as usual, and they stared down at the device like it slapped him.
"What was that all about...?" He asked himself, before setting the item back in his pocket. He looked back at his computer screen; He had been looking at recent news articles, and one head-line soon caught his eye.
'Missing Teen Speculated to be Dead; Parents Frantic for Answers.' It read in bold text, and Pheonix eye's widened a little more. "Missing teen...?" His mind couldn't shake the female voice he had just heard pleading for his help; And his mind began to piece together, slowly, that something wrong was brewing. He quickly stood, nearly tipping his chair over in the process, and hurried out the door, legs pumping forward and back to stride him along. He had zero idea on what was occuring; But he had a hunch. A hunch he'd want to dispel first before anything. But why was he running? Why was his heart beating to propel him towards his destination, and find that familiar face he'd seen so often? He would've objected to each question he asked himself, but he had nothing to work with. Besides...
Rent was due at the end of the month; And this may be his only chance.

Dang, he's burnt out, but now he's got something he's been compelled to do.

Note: Sadly, one of the character's names is censored; So the name D i c k will contain the number '1' to substitute the 'i'. Sorry.

Chapter 2 - Meet the Detective

* * *
January 14, 12:30 PM
Police Department
Criminal Affairs

* * *

Pheonix burst in through the door's of the Police Department, gasping and heaving with painful breaths that felt like dagger's in his throat with each inhale and exhale.
"Where's... De... Dete... Gah..." He struggled to form words that only made him cough in his running exhaustion.
"Detective... Gumshoe?" A officer sitting at his desk looked over at him, blinking.
"Y-yeah..." He nodded lightly, cheeks flushed heavily.
"Oh, he went for lunch. He should be back in a minute or two. Take a seat Mr. Wright." The officer motioned to a free chair; The department grew to know Pheonix's name over the last coming while, and while he wasn't 'popular', many recognized his face easily. Pheonix graciously slumped down into the chair, one hand clutching his side. Detective Gumshoe; He easily remembered the name without a second thought. The detective who aided him throughout his countless investigations during trials, and had become somewhat of a friend to the defense attorney. As he slowly re-gained his composure and energy, his eyes began to slowly wander around the room; He was sitting in the Criminal Affairs department; The section where detectives came and went, and where suspects would be brought in. The building was fairly clean, even with faces going to and fro on their business. The occasional officer would stop and give their hello's to Pheonix, who would politely give greetings in return. Seemingly the mood of the Police Department was a good one; Even with Damon Gant, the original Chief of Police, being convicted and on trial, this left the Police Department in slight confusion; No one really directing what to be done next; And this made Pheonix nervous.
"Hey, pal!" A rugged voice called from the doorway, and instantly without looking, Pheonix knew who it belonged to. Turning his head to look, he saw the Detective he'd been seeking; At first glance, Detective D1ck Gumshoe looked like he could easily pound a man into oblivion with one well-swung punch; And they'd be right. The detective was a burly man, standing over six feet tall. Even so, the man didn't look like a brute, more so, his face appeared calm and quite friendly; Green eyes looking vibrant and curious, and the same bandage under his jaw-line, black hair somewhat scruffy and it spiked slightly in the front, a pencil slipped behind his left ear for notes. Garbed in a emerald green over-coat that would fall past his knee's, a white dress shirt free of stains or dirt, and a plain red tie around his neck. Black trouser's donned on his legs, with black-leather shoes to finish his apparel. In short, he looked fit for his job any day. The detective had a large grin on his face as he walked in carrying a brown paper bag, a folder, and a newspaper. "What brings you here today, I thought there were no cases lately?" He asked as he stopped in front of Pheonix, looking down at him.
"There's... A little something I'm concerned about." Pheonix replied lightly, looking back up at him.
"A little something? I thought something would be a little bigger..." D1ck Gumshoe took heavy pride in his job; Hard-working, always on time, and always ready to be rough when it called. Even in his joy of his work, D1ck wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed; Something Pheonix took advantage of when he needed information in the past. D1ck set his items on a table, the smell of cooked steak wafting in the air lightly. "You look a little beat out, pal. Someone chasing after you?"
"No, not really." Pheonix shook his head, sitting up a little straight. "It's... About the missing girl."
"Missing girl?"
"I read a news article about it on my computer."
"You can do that nowadays?" D1ck blinked, sitting down across from him. "Shoot, and here I am shelling out a few bucks just to get a half-torn paper, sheesh."
"Anyway, I got a phone call today... And I think it may be here."
"Wha," D1ck began, pulling out a aluminum tray holding a steak inside. "Whaaaaaaat?!"
"I know it sounds weird, but I want to know more, just so it doesn't bother me..." Pheonix's tone sounded firm now, like it always did when he wanted to learn. D1ck frowned as he set his lunch on the table, scratching his head for a moment.
"Alright pal, I suppose there's no harm." He took the folder and pulled out a slip of paper, handing it to him. "The Missing Person's Report."
"Thanks," Pheonix said with a half-smile, taking the sheet and reading it over intently:

Missing Person Case #3590
Katrina Jadeson; Female; 15; High-School Student.
Last seen en-route from school to return home, seemingly abducted during the walk. No witnesses.
Clues/Evidence - None.
Guardians: Gloria Jadeson; Female; 58; House-Wife. Tony Jadeson; Male; 61; Owner and Founder of High-Star.

A photo was clipped to the paper; The photo had the image of a brightly smiling girl on it. Her blonde hair was neatly done in a bun behind her head, with a pair of bangs falling on each side of her face past her neck, and her blue eyes seemed to stare Pheonix down into his very soul. "... Detective Gumshoe?" He asked lightly. He never did say D1ck's real name, mainly out of respect to his work.
"Yeah, pal?" D1ck looked at him, having a mouthful of steak.
"... Can I borrow this?"
"What for?"
"Just for future reference."
"Sure, I got extras laying around." D1ck nodded, taking another bite of his meal. Pheonix un-clipped the photo and set it in his pocket, the report in another for easier access.
'So... A missing girl. I get a weird phone-call, and nothing seems to be quite right... His brain hummed to itself, bringing a finger to his chin and rubbing it in thought.
"Uh-oh," D1ck looked at him with worry. "You got that look on your face again, pal..." Pheonix didn't hear him.
'Guess it's time to put my investigating shoes back on; And go find her parents.'

Phoenix is dragging himself back into working. Her parents are going to be a little shocked when they see an attorney come knocking.

Yay!! A Phoenix Wright fanfic!!! It's such a good idea. I love it! Please update!

Chapter 3 - Meet Mr. Jadeson

* * *

January 14, 1:30 PM
Downtown Class District

* * *

Pheonix's shoes tapped along the ground in a quiet rhythm in sync with his calm heart-beat; D1ck had supplied him the the address to the girl's home, and the address pointing him to a somewhat odd direction; To the more upper-class section to the city. Only the rich or famous would end up housed in this area, and to think that the girl, Katrina, was one of the two, added a new piece to his curiosity. Homes were lined neatly, with massive lawns and gardens separating them both; Each home getting bigger and looking more regal with each look he'd give, as he soon stopped in front of one, one that stuck out a little more; At first look, it'd seem that the mansion was built out of solid gold, but another look would merely tell it was just a thin coat of gold paint. The lawn was bigger then them all, with flowers ranging from exoticism from simple roses, to one's that appeared to be alive and moving. Another oddity struck him; The images of star's were littered about, on the pavement rocks leading up to the door were made in the shape of star's, the windows on the mansion were shaped as star's, as were the handles on the front door; A double door to be exact, deep burgundy in color. Pheonix couldn't help but notice one of the door handles appeared shinier then the other; The left handle looking dull, the one on the right appearing much more clean. Taking a small, silver digital camera from his pocket, he snapped a picture of both handles, and set the picture away. He lifted his hand, and knocked a few times on the regal door. No answer. A few more firm knocks, but with no answer still. His fist clenched for a moment, and went to knock roughly, before the door swung open; Standing in the doorway was a man, looking like a monarch from the 1700's. His fading grey hair was combed very neatly and smoothly to his head, and while his face began to show signs of aging, his brown eyes looked quite alert. He too wore a suit, the vest and trouser's a dusty grey, but having a red under-shirt and white tie.
"Yes...?" The man asked, curiously.
"Are..." Pheonix began lightly. "Are you Tony Jadeson?"
"Yes, I am. And if you're here for a interview about my business, you'll need to leave."
"W-What?"
"You heard me. No interviews." Tony began to close the door, but Pheonix quickly perked up.
"M-Mr. Jadeson, I'm here about your daughter."
"... Katrina?"
"Yes sir." He nodded, but his eyes widened when Tony quickly grabbed him by the collar, lifting him up.
"What do you know about Katrina, why're you here?!" He barked, eyes growing angry.
"I r-r-read a article about it, and r-r-received a phone call!" He replied quickly, not expecting to be released as quickly when Tony did.
"You... Got a phone message from her?!" The man's eyes widened, hands clasping together. "Please... Do come inside, quickly." He said, pushing the door open to allow Pheonix inside, though him being hesitant at first. The inside of the mansion was nothing less then royalty; Trinkets, paintings, and other apparently expensive items were all about, with the walls a healthy shade of emerald green, and all the floors a clean and waxed marble. Tony led him into the apparent living room; Plush silk white sofa's lining across from each other, and a clear glass table in the center. "I'm sorry, I never did catch your name." Tony asked.
"It's Pheonix. Pheonix Wright."
"Oh... You're that defense attorney prodigy, are you not?"
"Well," Pheonix had to hide a grin. "I wouldn't say prodigy..."
"I heard about the case with Lana Skye, the General Prosecutor... Amazingly well done."
"T-Thank you." The two sat down; Tony on one couch, Pheonix sitting across from him.
"So tell me, Mr. Wright... What did Katrina say to you?" As soon as they sat, Tony sat up straight; Eyes full of worry.
"She... Said she wanted my help."
"... Your's? Not us, not the police...?"
"No sir. Just me."
"... That's all?"
"That's all." Pheonix said lightly. Tony sat back, giving a deep frown of defeat.
"... I s-see... So," He looked up at him. "What brought you here?"
"Some questions about all of this."
"Well... Go ahead." Tony nodded lightly. Pheonix sat up straight, hands on his lap.
'Where to start...' His brain hummed lightly.
"... Mr. Jadeson, what can you tell me about Katrina?"
"Katrina was a wonderful girl... Smart, funny, caring... She was the perfect child."
"No one thought otherwise of her?"
"Of course not!!" Tony barked. "She couldn't have done anything to have her kidnapped!"
"Wait... How do you know she was kidnapped?"
"My wife and I filed the missing person's report, you know."
"I see. It didn't specify in the report when this happened; When did you realize Katrina was missing?"
"She was supposed to return home on January 10."
'Four day's ago.' Pheonix nodded, then nodded again for him to continue.
"We filed the report on January 12."
"I see." Pheonix nodded, then stopped halfway. That didn't sound right. "... Mr. Jadeson... Why did you wait 2 days between her disappearance and filing the report?"
Tony's throat bulged for a moment, giving a deep swallow. "... W-We thought she w-went out to a party, or stayed over with friends and didn't tell us..."
"But Mr. Jadeson, you said just now that Katrina was smart, would she not have called?"
Again, Tony swallowed hard. "She'd a teenager, n-n-no one really knows how they think."
Pheonix's eyes narrowed; He'd begin to feel this feeling again. The feeling where he knew he had someone in a lie, and they were beginning to slowly crack. Pheonix slammed his hands on his knee's, eyes glaring at Tony.
"Mr. Jadeson... I don't believe you."
"W-What?"
"You're not making any sense at all; Katrina was smart, as said by you..." His tone of voice increased, glaring harder. "You must know what happened concerning her kidnapping!!"
"Urk...!" Tony gagged slightly, one hand reaching up to clutch his neck, the other clenching into a fist. "... Get out." Tony said in a dark tone, hands lowering. "Get out you miserable excuse for a attorney... OUT!!!" He barked loudly, making Pheonix jump slightly.

Pheonix knew he was on to something. He had the tingles in his body to prove it, the tingles from spotting a person's lie and making them squirm on the spot; He breathed deeply, finger to his chin in thought again.
'He'd hiding something. Something he doesn't want anyone to know.'

The doorknobs were a curiosity that are going to be a puzzle-piece later on, And yes, the guy's dates for doing those things do not make sense. What does the girl's father have to do with this? Who's he protecting or what he's hiding?

O.O PSYCHE-LOCK!!!!

What is that guy's problem? I've never understood why people keep the secrets that they do. They're normally very important, and don't endanger the person in any way...

Meh. As for the doorknobs... yes. Quite a curiosity. Very confusing, too. *already in Phoenix Wright thinking mode and thinking like an attorney* They're probably going to be of vital importance to the case.

I'm going to be stalking this thread for updates.... *stalks*

Chapter 4 - Spilled Beans

* * *

January 14, 2:04 PM
Police Department
Criminal Affairs

* * *

"Detective!" Pheonix called lightly when he entered the Police Department door's once again and seeing D1ck sitting at his desk, idly typing away at a computer. "Detective Gumshoe, you have a minute?" He asked, walking towards him.
"Sure pal, you looked all worked up again." D1ck turned in his chair to face him, one hand on his desk while the other remained in his lap. Pheonix gave a small nod; He certainly was worked up, what with just learning Tony wasn't as honest person as he would've expected.
"Detective, mind taking a look at this?" He asked, pulling out the sheet to the Missing Person's Report once again.
"The Report? What for, pal?"
"I'm curious about her father, Mr. Jadeson."
"Oh yeah, the rich guy who runs High-Star."
"High... Star?" Pheonix blinked a few times.
"Yup. It's a shipping company, kinda like shipping stuff you see in store's, but High-Star deals with more valuable stuff."
"Such as?"
"Diamonds, gold, expensive art... I hear they work with more, but I haven't looked at it much."
"Has... Mr. Jadeson been in 'trouble' at all?" Pheonix re-called the photograph of the door-handles he had taken earlier.
"... 'Fraid I can't give that info out, pal." D1ck said with somewhat of a smile; He always had that look when he'd refuse to divulge any information.
"Why not?"
"There's been a few threatening letter's sent to his business lately, saying how one of his shipping line's was going to be hi-jacked." D1ck said lightly, then paused when he realized his error. "Oh... Crud..."
"Don't worry Detective," Pheonix waved his hand lightly. "I won't tell anyone you spilled the beans."
"Good; I never did like beans anyway, pal." D1ck turned back to his computer, leaving Pheonix alone as he stood in more thought.
'So, Tony has had threats sent... His daughter disappears, and there's something weird about those door-handles...' His brain hummed lightly, before he blinked once, feeling his pocket vibrate. He reached in and pulled out his cell-phone, which still idly played the Steel Samurai theme song. "Hello, this is Pheonix." He answered lightly; As soon as he answered, D1ck answered his own phone, waited a few seconds, then quickly rushed past him and out the door.
"Mr. Wright?" It sounded like a young male's voice on the line; Not sounding weak, having a tone of slight commanding to it. "This is Pheonix Wright, right?"
"Yes, it is."
"G-Good... I need your help!!"
"W-What?"
"I'm... I'm going to court! They're pinning a crime on me I didn't do!"
"Ok, slow down, who are you?"
"My name is Jonathan Fisher... I'm a truck-driver for High-Star." The voice replied.
Pheonix's eyes widened slightly; As soon as he heard that company name, he had a feeling those 'threats' D1ck told him about weren't just idle words. "Mr. Wright?" Jonathan's voice asked curiously.
"Y-Yes, I'm here... Can you tell me what happened?"
"Y-Yeah, at the precinct... I'm in a police car right now."
"Alright... I'll be there when you arrive."
"S-S-Sure." Jonathan stuttered, before hanging up. Pheonix did the same to his own phone, then blinked when he realized what had just occurred; Did he accept this man's case without even meeting him?
"Aaah..." He sighed in exasperation, shaking his head slowly a few times. This was the last thing he wanted, to defend a person, even from being away from a court-room in such a while. He put his phone away while frowning, brain churning slowly.
'Least now I can maybe get some back-story to this High-Star business... And maybe get some clue's along the way.'

:blue20: Man, Phoenix seems to be a little rusty. Hopefully he'll find the truck driver completely exonerated, as well as allow him to dig up more clues on what's going on.

O.O MYSTERIOUS TRUCK DRIVER!!!!!! WHEEEE!!!!

So...
...
...
...
... My brain doesn't seem to work on Sundays. Anyways, good update.

xD Silly Phoenix.

Chapter 5 - Meet Mr. Fisher

* * *

January 14, 2:56 PM
Detention Center
Visitor's Room

* * *

Pheonix remembered this room well; The Detention Center was always infamous for sapping the joy from any situation. Cold grey walls were the only four anyone could see, and as he took his seat in front of the double-sided glass window, he couldn't help but shiver; He re-called when he sat in the same room, but when his own person was on trial and he was on the other side. He pulled the chair close up to the window, arms resting on the wooden counter. As minute's passed, the door in opposite room opened, a police-man ushering in a young man; At first glance of his attire, one would conclude he was a hillbilly; Red plaid shirt that was made of a aged wool, and a tan vest with various pockets over the shirt. Brown slacks that had a few holes here and there donned his legs, and old weathered sandals kept on his feet. Scrappy brunette hair was tucked under a very tattered baseball cap; It being also tan, with a image of a sleek golden five-pointed star with a silver edge to the tips sewn into the cap's front.
"Mr. Fisher?" Pheonix asked as the man sat down; Brown eyes looked at the attorney, who nodded.
"Yeah... I'm Jonathan Fisher." He said, same voice from the phone conversation. His face looked somewhat aged from lack of sleep and lack of shaving; Pheonix soon concluded he was around 28 year's old. "You're Mr. Wright, t-to defend me?"
"I... Suppose so." He nodded gingerly, fixing his tie.
"Good... I feel like I have no one to help me..."
"I'm here now. Mind explaining what occurred?"
"Oh, y-yeah." Jonathan nodded quickly, sitting up straight in his seat, clearing his throat and beginning to speak.
"It happened today, at around 1:05 PM. I was at a truck-stop to take a break and grab a bite to eat, and to clear my head. I had been driving a long time, so I was feeling really tired when I got there. When I walked into the shop to find out what was on the menu, I found a pool of blood creeping out from behind the counter. I ran around it and found a woman laying in the pool of blood, not moving. After that, I felt something strike me in the head and I was knocked out... When I woke up, there was a pistol in my left hand, and police car's were outside everywhere. That's when I was arrested."
"Hmm." Pheonix rubbed his chin lightly, absorbing this information. "They arrested you instantly?"
"You bet."
"No questions asked?"
"None."
"Damn..." He let his hand fall, trying to think. "So... I suppose I can check out the crime scene later... When is your trial?"
"Tomorrow morning." Jonathan said, and Pheonix's eyes bugged wide.
"WH-WHAAAAAT!?" He bellowed, jaw falling open.
"T-There a problem? I thought you'd have all y-your stuff ready to go..."
"Gah... Urk..." Was his only reply, reeling; Been out of the court-room for two months, and hardly any information or evidence to work with left him in a tight spot. After a few moments he gathered himself, taking a breath. "Alright... Alright, I think I can do this."
"Think?! Mr. W-Wright, my life is on the line here!"
"I know... But if your story is right, then the prosecution will have a witness to try and break your's apart."
At this, Jonathan gulped deeply. "B-But... You can still defend me, right?"
"I've been through worse scenario's... You just leave it to me tomorrow."
'I hope...'

Hmm...Phoenix I think might be able to prove this was rushed, but time ain't on his side. I'm sensing somebody's pulling the strings of the legal system to use Mr. Fisher as a scapegoat, as trials NEVER come this quick after an arrest.

Chapter 6 - Into Court

* * *

January 15, 10:20 AM
District Court
Defendant Lobby No. 2

* * *

Pheonix sighed as he stood inside the Defendant Lobby; The way it was tailored and decorated, it was more like a lounge for a nice restaurant, but he knew that a man's life was on the line. Court started in 40 minutes, and he still had no idea who even the victim was, let alone their name or face! Shortly after Jonathan walked in, still dressed in his trucker uniform.
"Oh, hi Mr. Wright." He said politely as he walked in.
"Morning, Jonathan... Hope you slept well."
"Hardly... You?"
"Ditto."
"You're not making me feel any better." Jonathan frowned deeply, already showing defeat.
"S-Sorry... Just haven't been here in a while." He glanced at his watch, it reading 10:51. "We should get inside; Trial's about to start."
"R-Right." Jonathan nodded, making his way to the door's. Pheonix let out a glum sigh when his new client wasn't looking.
"I am SO doomed..."

* * *

January 15, 11:02 AM
District Court
Courtroom No. 2

* * *

'Here again...' Pheonix thought to himself as he stood behind his assigned table, which was opposite of the prosecution's table. Behind both elongated table's was a higher-risen seating array for the audience, but the Judge's podium was only slightly higher then that. The podium a intimidating sight on it's own, even as the bald-headed Judge sat in his seat. Though bald, the Judge had a thick white beard that went well past his chest and stopped at his ribs, garbed in the traditional black robe; The same Judge Pheonix faced with in all his other cases. Across from the Judge's podium was the esteemed witness stand, where witness's would give their testimony's. He remembered often hating whoever sat in that stand. Jonathan stood nervously beside Pheonix at the table, but both men noticed that the prosecution's side remained empty. The Judge banged his gavel, oblivious to the empty prosecutor spot.
"Court is now in session for the trial of Jonathan Fisher." He said in his usual commanding voice, which silenced the audience. The Judge sat for a moment, before blinking. "... Is the prosecution not ready?"
"Ah. The prosecution seems to be late." Pheonix corrected lightly, which made the Judge frown. A minute later the prosecution did arrive; Pheonix surprised on who his opponent would be. Standing at a meager 5'3", head having thinning black hair, thick rimmed glasses placed upon his face that were rectangular in shape, and a pressed drab grey suit that was void of any color and made the man 'boring' to look at, coupled with a faded red tie. This was none other then Winston Payne, a pathetic excuse for a man. One word would easily describe Winston as 'wormy', often lacking the voice or tone to carry out trials. Pheonix re-called his win record; Very little came to mind.
"S-So sorry your Honor!" Winston heaved as he rushed behind his table, carrying his suit-case. "I was caught in heavy traffic." He spoke with a very squeamish, 'squeaky' voice.
"I do not enjoy tardiness in my courtroom, Mr. Payne." The Judge said with furrowed brows, and Winston nodding.
"I do apologize... The Prosecution is ready."
"The Defense, is ready." Pheonix said in his changed tone; A tone that made people knew he was in business.
'This should go well... Payne can't hold his cool for even a minute.' His brain hummed, remembering back to Pheonix's first ever trial, the Prosecution being Payne. He also remembered easily crushed Payne and winning... A good feeling during this bad time.
"The Prosecution may have its opening statement." The Judge said, demeanor calming.
"Ladies and gentleman," Winston began. "This, is a simple case; Man enters store, and seeks to rob it of all monetary belongings... In the process, the defendant lost his temper and proceeded to kill the clerk, Ms. Robin Tardings, in cold blood using a pistol." As he spoke, the bailiff went to Pheonix's table and handed him a Evidence List, plus a copy of the autopsy report. Looking over the list, there wasn't much to work with; A 9mm black handgun labeled as the murder weapon, and the bullet removed from Robin's body. At least he knew her name now. He then went to the autopsy report:

Victim: Robin Tardings; 29; Store Clerk
Cause of Death: Stab wound to stomach, followed by gun-shot wound to heart.
Time of Death: January 14, 1:00 PM - 1:09 PM.

'Stab wound?' Pheonix blinked, reading the CoD (Cause of Death). 'But there's only a pistol in evidence...' He frowned, already finding something amiss.
"HOLD IT!" He called out loudly, making the Judge blink in confusion.
"Yes, Mr. Wright?"
"Your Honor, I find it odd how the autopsy report states a stab wound on the victim, but there is no sharp object in the Evidence List!"
"The detective's did not locate a knife of any sorts at the scene." Winston said quickly, already sweating slightly.
"Are you certain of this, Mr. Payne?" The Judge looked down at the Prosecutor.
"Y-Yes. Positive."
"Very well. Then the Prosecution may call its first witness."
"The Prosecution calls... Mr. Rodney Carlson to the stand!"

Go get 'em Phoenix, take this case apart at the seams!

NOTE: I'll be using white text when a witness is in their testimony phase.

Chapter 7 - Turnabout Stop

* * *

January 15, 11:15 PM
District Court
Courtroom No. 2

* * *

The court was in a light calm as Rodney Carlson took his place in the witness stand, turning to face the crowd. Rodney looked much like a mobster from a old gangster movie; Black, grease-ridden slick hair against his head, with a face only a mother could trust, the word 'grease-ball' written all over his face, it being slightly plump with a thin mustache above his lips. His apparel only added the effect, with a very expensive looking red suit with no tie, but a black dress-shirt underneath.
"Would the witness please state their name, age, and occupation?" Winston began lightly once he was settled.
"Rodney Carlson, 31, door-to-door salesman." The man spoke in surprisingly a clear, respectful tone that contrasted with his appearance.
"And you were at the scene of the crime yesterday at 1:00 PM, correct?"
"That's right." Rodney nodded, before flashing a grin, large white teeth quite bright.
Hoo boy.' Pheonix took the time to thoroughly look over all of what little evidence he had; The pistol and bullet used. He brought his hand to his chin to think for a few moments.
"Would the witness please give their testimony as to what occurred?" The Judge asked lightly.
"You bet," Rodney said with another toothy grin, before clearing his throat lightly. Pheonix looked at Winston, who looked back at him; Glaring as the witness began to speak.
"It was around 12:50 PM I walked into the store to grab a bite to eat-
"HOLD IT! Pheonix called quickly. "Mr. Carlson, you said you're a door-to-door salesman, correct?"
"What? Oh, yeah, I am." Rodney nodded idly.
"Why be out on the highway at a truck-stop to do business?"
"... It was my off day, and I heard that the shop sold some good sandwiches."
"I s-see." Pheonix turned a slightly glum face, sweating a little.
"I went inside and walked to the counter, having my suit-case out and ready to fish out for my wallet."
Pheonix remained in a pause, not finding anything wrong with that statement, until a oddity struck him.
"HOLD IT!" He called out. "Why would you have your suit-case with you on your day off?"
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston called in his shrieking tone. "What is the relevance of a suit-case? It contains his business records and products!"
"I must agree, Mr. Wright. Unless you have a deeper problem with the witness's testimony, allow him to continue." The Judge said with a frown.
"Y-Yes your Honor." Pheonix nodded; Knowing pressing would only harm him.
Rodney continued; "As I wondered what to order, a man, the defendant, came stumbling in through the door waving around a gun in his hand!"
Pheonix quickly checked the pistol again, looking over the evidence tag; On it were two sets of prints; One from Jonathan's left hand, the other from a unknown source's right hand, the unknown source also the only print on the trigger.
"HOLD IT!" Pheonix called, slamming his hands on the table. "Mr. Carlson, which hand was the defendant holding the gun?"
"In his right." Rodney looked at him oddly. Pheonix felt a twinkle in his eye; He got to say it. The word he'd been itching to call out for the longest time, ever since he'd left court for 2 months. Taking a deep breath, he glared at the witness fiercely.
"OBJECTION!!!" He yelled, while pointing at Rodney as if to strike him down. "Mr. Carlson. I'm afraid you're lying."
"W-What?" Rodney blinked, eyes widening slightly.
"Mr. Carlson," Pheonix pointed to the handgun sitting on Winston's table. "You've seen that very gun, correct?"
"Y-Yeah. When the psycho ran in!"
Pheonix slowly shook his head. "If he was holding the gun in his right hand..." He slammed his hands down roughly again. "Then why are there finger-prints from my client's LEFT hand?!"
Rodney bit his lip firmly, one hand grasping at his side as he looked as if to be slapped across the face. The crowd fell into a curious chatter, before the Judge banged his gavel firmly.
"Order, order!" He called, silencing them. "Witness, add this important feature to your testimony, then continue."
"Y-You bet." Rodney said with a nervous, but toothy grin.
"S-So, when the defendant ran in, holding the gun in his LEFT hand, I immediately charged for him to try and wrestle the free away from him.
Pheonix nodded softly.
"Then...?" Winston folded his hands behind his back lightly.
"Then as we struggled, he managed to fire off a shot which went off somewhere, into the wall I think.
"OBJECTION!!!" Pheonix fiercely called once again, making Rodney jump in alarm. "Mr. Carlson... I would believe you... But I'm afraid you're lying again."
"W-What are you talking about?!" Rodney seethed, hands placing them on the rail to the stand.
"Simple." Pheonix pointed idly to the bullet in the Evidence List. "This."
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston immediately hissed. "So? This proves a shot WAS fired!"
Pheonix shook his head slowly. "On the contrary." Immediately, Winston looked alarmed. "This bullet was retrieved from the victim's body. If what the witness says is true..." He slammed his hands down again. "Then there would be TWO bullets sent in as evidence!" Rodney clutched his side again, looking pained once more, before pausing, calming himself and standing with another toothy grin.
"... Not bad, lawyer." He said with a idle chuckle. "I can see why Jonathan picked you. But ya forgot one smaaaaaall detail..."
"Which is?" Pheonix blinked in confusion.
'I had my own gun, too."

Phoenix is doing good taking things apart, but now we may be looking at the killer himself on the stand.

Chapter 8 - Turnabout Stop 2

* * *

January 15, 11:30 PM
District Court
Courtroom No. 2

* * *

"W-WHAAAAAAAAAAAT!?" Pheonix cried with his jaw hung wide open, paling when he heard what the witness had said.
"I had my own gun there too; I... I M-Must've gotten confused with my story." Rodney said with a grin; Though it was shaky.
"Mr. Carlson does do door-to-door salesman work... Naturally, many people don't like him."
"Hey!"
"Which would also explain why he would carry a fire-arm; For self-defense."
"Hmm." The Judge banged his gavel, before nodding his head slowly. "Though a very crucial mistake, the witness will FULLY detail the rest of his testimony... Understood?"
"You bet." Rodney gave a quick thumbs-up, before clearing his throat again to speak.
"Alright... Yeah. I h-had my own gun... I guess when I first saw the defendant run in, my first thought was to get the gun away from him.
"HOLD IT!" Pheonix called. "But you just said you had your own gun... Why not just use the one you had?"
"OBJECTION!!!" Another shriek from Winston. "Would anyone think clearly when a blood-thirsty maniac randomly runs in with a gun?!"
"I am not blood-thirsty!" Jonathan barked from his seat next to Pheonix.
"Enough," The Judge said. "I agree with the Prosecution... I do believe anyone would have a foggy thinking process."
'Not unless they're old men.' Pheonix's brain hummed darkly.
"Anyway, we fought for a little bit before the defendant shoved me back, and before he pulled the trigger, I ducked down quickly, not realizing the victim was still behind me; So in the end, he shot her! Rodney seethed, clenching both fists firmly.

* * *

'No... No! There HAS to be something there...' Pheonix's brain screamed when Rodney finished his testimony. The Judge soon nodded his head, humming.
"Mr. Wright, I'm afraid I've heard enough."
'No...!'
"The current evidence and what I've heard is more then enough for me to make my ruling."
'No!'
"Hehe, poor rookie." Winston said, 'fanning' himself with a silly grin.
"This court finds the defendant, Jonathan Fisher-"
'No, I can't lose... Not like this... I've got to do something...!!' Pheonix stood with fists clenched, before crying out the only thing he knew at the moment.
"OBJECTION!!!" He soon cried, making the Judge blink his eyes wide, before frowning. "Your Honor, I can prove my client did not fire the murder weapon!"
"KA-WHAAAAT?!" Rodney and Winston cried in unison.
"Oh?" The Judge's face soon calmed. "Then by all means, do present your evidence, Mr. Wright... Be warned; You interrupted me within my ruling, and-"
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston soon shrieked. "Exactly the point! We were seconds away from the ruling and ending this trial!"
"Y'know, this is kinda funny." Rodney said, toothy grin once again as he stood in the stand, arms folded. "I actually wanna see the lawyer-guy crash and burn when he realizes that there's no way around it... That his little ol' defendant killed the victim!"
"I..." Pheonix went to speak, but immediately fell gloomy, sweating bullets rapidly. 'Oh no... He's right... I got nothing... If I'm going to grasp... I better reach for the moon... Here goes nothing!' Soon he calmed, slamming his hands into the table, glaring at the witness. "Mr. Carlson." He said with a low-tone.
"What? You're gonna admit you have nothing?"
"Why is your gun not submitted as evidence?"
"Eh..." Rodney fell tight and stiff for a few moments, before relaxing. "I-I... I lost it. Y-Yeah."
"But if you had a gun, then you must've fired that bullet that missed, right?"
"... Urk..." Rodney clutched his side once more, realizing his error.
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston shrieked, making everyone wince. "Your Honor, I request the witness be able to finish their testimony to explain things!"
"Very well." The Judge banged his gavel. "The witness shall testify what occurred AFTER the firing by the defendant."
'Did... Did it work?' Pheonix stood clutching his head for a moment, before standing, breathing intently. Rodney fired a glare of death over at him, before speaking again.
"When I ducked, the defendant shot, and I guess it must've hit her, the victim, and killed her. I then finally pulled out my own gun from my suit-case-"
"HOLD IT!" Pheonix called, before looking at the Evidence List. "Mr. Carlson, what type of gun was it?"
"A 9mm, custom made by my request."
"Customized? How?"
"You know, extra things; Flash-light, a lighter, bottle opener..."
"Why not just but a swiss-army-knife?"
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston frowned deeply now. "What is the relevance of this line of questioning!?"
"Agreed." The Judge nodded. "The witness may continue."
"So I fired my own shot, which missed; It went past the defendant and outside, I dunno where it went for sure. So after, the defendant went to run away, so I tackled him and we struggled again, and I finally knocked him out cold. I was scared, so I ran off to contact the police."
Pheonix knew he was close to the truth; There was a big, goofy smile on the attorney's face before his demeanor went into its fierce nature.
"OBJECTION!!!" He called out, finger pointed like a weapon; He knew this was the last objection he'd cry. "I'm sorry Mr. Carlson; But you're wrong."
"W-W-What're you talking about?" Rodney began to stammer a few times.
"My client did not fire the murder weapon... Do you know why?"
"W-W-W-W-Why?" The witness was now clutching his side intently.
"Because..." Pheonix soon slammed his hands into the table, giving the same death glare back to him. "Because the finger-prints on the trigger do not match my client's!!" He yelled, and the crowd immediately went into a loud chatter, the Judge banging his gavel.
"Order, order, order!!" He called to silence them. "Mr. Wright, are you implying...?"
"Yes, your Honor."
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston cried, beginning to sweat rapidly. "Y-Your Honor, this is ridiculous, the Defense seriously can't mean..."
"Oh, I do Mr. Payne." Pheonix grinned wide, hands on his hips. "That this witness, Mr. Carlson, IS THE ACTUAL MURDERER!!!"
Rodney writhed about in the stand, clutching both of his sides and beginning to grow flustered, breathing quickly. "No... No!!"
"It's all very simple." Pheonix began, tapping the Evidence List. "For starter's, there was no second gun. Secondly, there was only one shot fired... Now, finger-prints were taken. One from the victim. One from my client, but Mr. Carlson... Seen as a valuable witness to a crime... Your finger-prints were NOT taken!!"
Rodney gripped the railing to the stand tightly, so much his knuckles grew white.
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston shrieked, taken aback by the sudden turn. "T-This is badgering the witness, h-harassment!!!"
"And you're over-ruled." The Judge glared at the Prosecutor.
"Let me put this all together." Pheonix began, throat cleared. "You, Mr. Carlson, were not on your way to get a bite to eat. And you don't carry a gun for self-defense; You were looking to rob the shop, since it was a popular truck-stop for the High Star company!"
"Gaa-aaak...!" Rodney choked.
"You went in, hoping everything to go over well, and you pulled out your gun: The murder weapon!"
"Urk...!!"
"All seemed well until Mr. Fisher showed up; You shot the victim in order to silence her, and when Mr. Fisher walked in, you clubbed him in the head with the butt of your gun, then placed it in his hand in order to pin the crime on him!"
"No... N-N-N-N-N-N-NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!"
"This all sounds very convincing Mr. Wright." The Judge nodded. "But one thing bothers me: The victim's knife wound.
"The... T-T-The what?!" Pheonix gagged on his words, having completely forgotten about it.
"If I'm to believe you, then the knife wound can also be explained... So I must ask you... Where did that wound come from?"
Pheonix stood so still, a few people were bound to think he was dead. All the information gathered; All the new details being strung together, all came down to this. This one answer would either prove Jonathan innocent, or send him to the death-penalty.
He had to make it count.
"Mr. Carlson. You said your gun; The murder weapon, was custom-made, correct?"
Rodney stood seething, though barely formed a nod.
"Flash-light, lighter, bottle-opener... All said by you... Correct?"
Another seething nod.
"These all are components of a device we call-"
"OBJECTION!!!" Winston cried, but was silenced by the Judge's over-ruling.
"A device we call a swiss-army-KNIFE!" He slammed his hands on the firmly fiercely once more. "Thinking in order to try and trick me, you'd stab the victim with the knife that came with your customization, but instead... It only proved you more guilty!!"
Rodney was now growing fully pale.
"You tried to pin the crime on a innocent man, then you tried to fool who would defend him, but the only one fooled here today..." He slowly stood up straight, pointing at the witness. "IS YOU!!!"
"Gah... Ehn..." Rodney stood, violently shaking and his head lowered. "You... Urgh... How... No... Impossible... No way...!!" He brought his hands to his head, clutching tightly.
& quot;GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRGGGGGG
GHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" He screamed at the top of his lungs, body violently convulsing as his hair fell from his head revealing it to be a toupee, and his mustache falling from his face; Head completely bald now as his hands grasped at his neck and squeezed, before passing out and falling over onto the floor.

* * *

After the commotion and the bailiff hauling Rodney away, the Judge sat with his eyes closed.
"... Mr. Wright." He said lightly.
"Yes, your Honor?"
"You've done it again."
"T-Thank you." He replied with a silly grin, one hand behind his head.
"Again you've proven the REAL murderer while defending your client... I do believe I can make my ruling now..." The Judge opened his eyes, banging his gavel.
"This court finds the defendant, Jonathan Fisher...
NOT GUILTY."

Whoo!! Dang, no wonder Phoenix at times has mini-heart attacks in court!

FLAWLESS VICTORY! ^__^

Pretty much enough said, Dino, in my opinion. ^^

PLease continue writing Phoenix Wright Stories, Dude! ^^

:dancow: Yay Mr Nick!!! :dancow:

Okay, Dino is continuing to write this, but as with his other story, I am now the one posting it. Here is 'Dark Star Rising' chapter 9.

Chapter 9 - Meet Mrs. Jadeson

* * *
January 15, 1:00 PM
District Court
Defendant Lobby No. 2
* * *

"You did it, Mr. Wright!" Jonathan cheered with a massive smile plastered to his face, shaking Pheonix's hand constantly.
"Yeah. Guess I did." He said with a somewhat meek little grin. 'Just barely, though...'
"Things began to look pretty bad near the end... I'm so glad you were able to pull through! I can see why everyone calls you a prodigy." Jonathan finally released his hand, placing them in his pockets. "... Still a shame what happened to that clerk-girl." His demeanor softened somewhat, a small frown now coming to his lips. Pheonix nodded in agreement, also giving a frown.
"A robbery gone horribly wrong... At least he's behind bar's now."
"Totally..." He took a soft glance at his watch, before going nearly pale. "Oh no! The boss is going to wonder where I am!" He yelped, before shaking Pheonix's hand furiously once more. "I'm running late, thanks again!" He said, before running out of the court-room and out of sight. Pheonix waved to him lightly, before grabbing his wrist and giving a grimace; From all the hand-shaking, he felt a bone crack painfully.
"Ow-Ow-Ow." He repeated a few times, shaking his arm to help loosen it, before his attention was turned to his pocket; His cell-phone ringing with that familiar tune, pulling it out and answering the call. "Hello, Pheonix Wright here." He said in a clear voice.
"He-llooooooooooooooooooo!" A boisterous, high female voice replied. "Are you the Pheonix Wright, lawyer extraordinaire?" The woman asked, tone wavering from low to high constantly.
"... Ah, yes I a-am." He said back, having to pull the phone from his ear when the woman spoke loudly.
"Oh-Ho! I've been hearing about you; I also heard that you're snooping about the horrid dealing of our little Katrina?"
"You know Katrina?"
"Of course, silly man! I'm her mother!" She said with a loud, bellowing laugh. Pheonix placed the phone on the crook of his shoulder to keep it to his ear, pulling open the missing person folder for Katrina and glancing through it again.
"... You must be Gloria Jadeson then?"
"Oh-Ho-Ho! That would be correct!"
"May I ask why exactly you're calling?" 'More so, how'd you get my number?'
"I'd like to see you Mr. Wright and discuss a few things!"
"Uh. S-Sure, sounds fine... Where can I find you?"
"Come to our home, I'll be there for a while still." She said, before abruptly hanging up. Pheonix looked down at his phone in somewhat disbelief, before putting it and the folder away, scratching his head. "... She doesn't sound very upset." He said aloud to himself, before he quietly exited the building.

* * *
January 15, 1:45 PM
Downtown Class District
* * *
Approaching the large extravagant mansion once more, he paused before he knocked at the door; The door-knobs had been replaced, now the knobs in the simple shape of a circle with light detailing around the handle. He tilted his head to one side, before once again pulling out his camera and taking a picture of the door-knobs; Why would they be replaced at such sudden notice? That, and they were perfectly clean, without a speck of dirt or dullness to them. He frowned as he placed his camera away, before giving a firm knock at the door.
"Coming!" He heard bellowed from inside, before the door swung open, revealing a rather... Large woman. She stood at a mere five feet, though her puffy, red bee-hive hair seemed to add another foot to her appearance, looking like a balloon from her girth, hips wide and gut plump as one could estimate she was around 250 lbs, deathly obese for a woman her size. She wore a bright, almost blinding yellow dress that had difficulty keeping itself from tearing around her girth, sparkles in the fabric casting off a reflection, Pheonix having to close his eyes for a moment from the flash, the dress ending at her knee's; Her legs themselves rather thin, so it was a wonder how they kept her standing. Her head was also plump, though it was the fault of her cheeks that made it look so, her skin plastered in thick layer's of blush pink make-up, with her eyes having a bright red mascara around it, so thick that he had to look carefully to see that she had small, brown eyes, lips coated in five layer's too many of crimson lip stick, her feet oddly remaining bare. If any fashion guru saw her, they'd probably throw up, followed by a sobbing fit. "Why he-llooooooooooooooooooooo, Mr. Wright!" She said in her still wavering tone; Even louder in person, Pheonix winced slightly.
"H-Hello Mrs. Jadeson... What did you want to talk to me about?" He said, fixing his tie.
"Do come in!" She said, stepping aside; Giving small huff's of fatigue just by taking a few steps. He walked inside, Gloria motioning to the living room where he and Tony talked before; Where was Tony, anyway? He took a seat, looking over to her as Gloria waddled towards the couch across from him, sitting - More like falling - down, the support of the couch creaking from the weight of her body. "So Mr. Wright," She began wipping a bead of sweat from her forehead. "How goes the search, hmmmm?"
"Not... Too well." He murmured, honesty being the best idea for now. Tony's behavior last time still nagged his curiosity, as well as her calmness... He wanted to say something, but perhaps it wasn't the time yet. "I'm afraid I might've upset your husband."
"Oh, don't mind him, he's been all uppity since Katrina left." She said with a large, odd smile on her face.
"I would be too... Your daughter has gone missing, mind you." He said, her demeanor still calm overall, making his brow furrow; He couldn't take it. It was questioning time. "Mrs. Jadeson, you seem to be handling this all very well." He said a little firmly.
"Oh-Ho!" She chuckled. "That's because I know she's perfectly fine!" She didn't seem fazed by the question at all.
"And how do you know that?"
"Motherly instincts, Mr. Wright!" She said, smiling a little wider.
He didn't buy that answer, nor her smile. "Mrs. Jadeson; When I talked to your husband, he seemed to be rather defensive when I asked him why he delayed on filing the missing person's report... Why would that be?"
"Oh, you must of struck a nerve with Tony. I was the one who made Tony wait to file the report." She said, nodding to herself. Pheonix opened his eyes a little wider; Gloria kept Tony from filing the report?
"... Mrs. Jadeson... Why would you do that?" He said, sitting forward a little.
"Because that little skamp has run away from home all the time, you see. Ever since she became ten, she's snuck out, ran off, and has gone to friends homes all the time; We keep having our servant go out and bring her back home." She seemed annoyed to tell this statement, smile fading slightly.
"So you thought she just ran away from home again?"
"Precisely!"
"And your servant, have they gone out to look for her?"
"No."
"Why not?"
"Because, I'm tired of looking after her, Mr. Wright!" She said, giving a huff of annoyance. Pheonix almost felt his heart skip a beat when she said that; Did he just hear her correctly?
"Gloria," He decided to drop the formality. "This is your daughter we're talking about; How can you just stop caring?"
"Oh, you don't understand unless you have children of your own." She waved her hand in a dismissing manner, shaking her head. "She's been nothing but a pain when she turned ten."
"... Gloria," Pheonix began, closing his eyes, before turning his infamous glare on her. "Do you have anything to do with Katrina's kidnapping?!" Her face lost its smile, keeping in a neutral manner for a few moments, before a more sneering smile came to her lips.
"... What if I do, Mr. Wright?" Her tone grew a little lower. That response made him blink a few times; Time to press deeper, it seemed.
"Then what is Tony's involvement, then?"
"Silly lawyer..." She said, giving a boisterous laugh. "Ohhhhh-Ho-Ho-Ho-Ho!" She laughed for a moment, before suddenly glaring at him, her face void of any joy, replaced with sheer annoyance. "Get out, before I make you disappear." Her tone wavered, trying hard to not yell now. Pheonix sat there, before he slowly rose up, looking down at her with a gaze that would probably scare Death itself.
"... You're not getting away with this."
"Seems I already have."
"We'll see." He murmured, turning and moving towards the door, opening it and stepping outside; It was now late afternoon, the sun setting partially. He took in a slow breath; Breathing in the smell of the numerous flower's as well. Normally, they'd smell good to anyone, but to Pheonix, they reaked horribly. They smelt much like Gloria's make-up; Fake, over-done, and bloody.
Wait - Bloody?
He blinked once, slowly looking around for the source of the smell. He'd stop his search on a patch of small, delicate white lilies that were in full bloom. They looked to be freshly grown, but one lily stood out; A short, rotted one barely poking from the soil, that had a few streaks of a red substance across it. Kneeling by the withered plant, he carefully picked it up by the stem and lifted it near his face; Lo, it smelt of a person's life-blood, making him grimace slightly. He placed it gently within his jacket pocket, before standing once more, and continuing on his way.
He was going to need some coffee tonight; It's going to be a long one.

Dino's next chapter, its been over a week since the last post.




After a quick meal and indeed a few cups of coffee, Pheonix had made his way back to the police station; Since night-time was approaching, many of the officer's and detective's had left for the evening, but as per usual, **** was still inside at his desk, writing away at paper's and forms dealing with various events. Walking inside, he quietly walked toward's the detective's desk, clearing his throat softly.

"Gaah!" D.ick yelped in slight alarm. "O-Oh, it's you, pal... Sheesh. Don't sneak up on a guy like that!"

"Sorry Detective, but... I kinda need to speak with you. It's important."

"Important?" D.ick turned to face him completely, placing his pen down. "What's up, pal?"

"Well," Pheonix pulled a chair for himself, sitting down in front of him. "I'm still looking into the Jadeson's-"

"Any luck?" D.ick cut him off, Pheonix slowly shaking his head.

"None." He decided not to talk of Gloria's... 'Confession'. "But, I hear they have a servant; A butler, or something?"

"Oh yeah, this young guy. Why?"

"I'd like to speak with him."

"... Pal, you ain't trying to do detective work of your own, are ya?"

"Eh... N-No, just..." He rapidly searched for a excuse. "I'd just like to ask him about Katrina."

"Hmm." D.ick frowned hard, eyebrows furrowing in concern. "... Alright. Wouldn't hurt, I guess. But we already had guys talk to him about the missing person; We didn't get a whole lot."

"That's alright." Pheonix nodded in understanding, while **** quickly scribbled down a address on a piece of scrap paper.

"Here," He said, handing it to him. "He lives just a few blocks down from here, by a bus stop... You going tonight, pal?"

"Probably." He nodded once more; He was still a little buzzed from coffee, anyway. "It is pretty important... Thanks again Detective Gumshoe." He said, standing up and adjusting his tie.

"Don't mention it." D.ick gave a small wave, before turning back to his paper's. Pheonix slowly turned, making his way out of the station and back into the urban, night-time air.

* * *

January 15, 10:05 PM

* * *

By the time he reached the small, cozy house only a short walk away, the moon was high in the sky, casting its illuminating glow down across the city, with street lamps aiding those doing their nightly runs. The home was rather small, and it would seem rather cramped, even with only one person inside. The outer walls had a white coat to them, while the roof was a dark brown, it angled in a triangular pattern. There wasn't much of a front-lawn, minus a stone walk way that would branch off from the sidewalk, leading to the front door, with a few patches of grass by each step. Making his way to the door, he turned his eyes upwards and noticed light shining through the windows; Seemed like someone was home alright. With fist clenched, he made a few light knocks at the white door, hearing some movement from within. When a few moments passed by, he knocked a few more times, hearing foot-steps come from behind the door, it soon swinging open. Standing in the doorway was a teenage boy, with a tired expression on his face. He stood around six feet if not a few inches under, with locks of dark brown hair kept short and neatly combed down against his head. Dressed in a grey t-shirt and black sweat pants, he seemed more ready for bed then a line of questioning. Light brown eyes peered through a pair of small, thin glasses that were placed on the bridge of his nose, the frames colored in a silver casting.

"Mmph..." He murmured, running his hand slowly through his hair, blinking a few times. "Can I help you?" He spoke with a rather soft voice.

"Uh," Pheonix blinked as well. "... Is there someone here that works for the Jadeson family?"

"Oh, that'd be me." The teenager said as he stood up a little straighter. "Who're you?" Pheonix was a little taken aback; This teenaged boy was a butler for a high class family?

"... You... Work for the Jadeson's?" He asked, a little un-sure, unknowingly ignoring his question.

"That's right. I'm Horatio Asnon... And you are?" He asked again, narrowing one eye.

"I'm Pheonix Wright; I'm a lawyer."

"Oh, you're that star defense attorney everyone's talking about."

"Y-Yeah." Pheonix grinned sheepishly, before getting back to the actual subject. "Anyway, you work as a butler for them, right?"

"That's right. Been working for them for two years now... Let me guess." A frown came to his lips. "You're here about Katrina, right?"

"Yes, I am." He nodded in reply.

"... I'd invite you inside, but I'm afraid I'm still un-packing."

"You just moved lately?"

"Yeah, just a few days before Katrina disappeared." Horatio leaned against the door-frame, arms folded.

"Before she disappeared?" Pheonix repeated, quirking a eyebrow.

"Whoa, whoa." Horatio brought his hands up in defence, frowning. "Mr. Wright, don't give me that look. The Jadeson's had given me a pay-raise before she vanished. For what reason," He gave a soft shrug, sighing. "I don't have a clue."

"Who gave you the actual raise?"

"Gloria. She said I was a good worker, and she hoped I kept up with it."

Pheonix had to pause for a moment, taking all of this together in his head. "Mr. Asnon, was Katrina acting odd the days before she vanished?"

"Actually, funny you should say that." He brought a hand to his face, pushing his glasses up slightly. "They had given me a month's vacation, so I couldn't tell if something was up until I returned... Even then, I didn't know she had vanished until I came back to work and found she wasn't at the manor."

"No one told you?"

"No one. I was pretty much left in the dark for the most part."

"Any reason that would be?"

"I don't know. I've worked hard for them, and I know I don't have any enemies." He frowned a little more, giving his head a slow rub. Pheonix was quiet for a few moments, before reaching into his coat pocket and pulling out the picture's he had taken at the Jadeson house; The two picture's of the door-knobs that had gone from dirty to clean.

"Mr. Asnon, would you know anything about this?" Horatio took the picture's, quietly looking them over.

"Yeah, these handles were replaced; Apparently, someone bumped their head on them."

"You didn't see it happen?"

"No, Tony did. He told me that the person bled on the handles, so he wanted them replaced, which he left to me."

"And that was a few days ago, right?"

"Yeah. He said that some weird guy came by, asking him a bunch of questions about Katrina... Was that you?"

"I wouldn't say weird, but yes, it was me." He frowned a little himself, before something clicked in his head. "Hold it; He wanted them replaced because someone hit their head... And that I came by?"

"Yeah. He said you were trying to blame him on Katrina's kidnapping, so he wanted anything that looked suspicious to be fixed... Those door-knobs included."

"Anything suspicious...?" Pheonix had to glare for a moment, before he hummed softly. "If that's so," He pulled out the bloody lily he had found yesterday, also showing it to him. "I guess this was over-looked?" Horatio looked at the 'wounded' flower, blinking a few times.

"... Oh crud... Is... That blood...?" He asked, eyes widening for a moment.

"It is. I found this outside the Jadeson's house in one of the flower bed's... They all looked freshly planted. Kind of hard to over-look a flower with blood on it, isn't it?" At this, Horatio lifted his hands in defence once again.

"M-Mr. Wright, don't give me that look again! Tony loves Katrina, he'd never do anything to harm her!"

"What about you?"

"No! Katrina and I-" He began to speak, but quickly silenced himself.

"Mr. Asnon?" Phoenix quirked a eyebrow.

"... I need to go back to un-packing now. G-Good night." He murmured, before quickly handing the picture's back to him, before shutting the door lightly in his face. Pheonix gave a frown, setting the items away into his coat pocket once more, having a mixed feeling of slight victory, but bitter defeat at the same time. He turned, walking away from the house and back towards the police station with his hands in his pockets. There had to be something, anything that he was possibly over-looking. He still had nothing on Gloria, Tony was furious with him, and Horatio had some sort of connection with Katrina if he silenced himself like that. He knew something was going on, and someone had to be guilty if no one was outright talking. He opted that a night's sleep would be the best bet right now; He needed the rest. And a miracle.

I have said it before and I will say it again:

FLAWLESS VICTORY! ^_^

But this time I am adding something! ^^

YOU PASS!

WAY TO GO, DINO!

*bows* Thank you, Patriot for posting Dino's fics for him.

Dino's latest on this.





* * *

January 16, 11:23 AM
Pheonix Wright & Co. Law Offices

* * *

It'd be another rude awakening when the sun would harass at Pheonix's eyes while napping away at his desk; His table-phone also ringing obnoxiously, trying to force him awake. He rudely slapped his hand on top of the phone, slowly dragging the reciever to his ear, opening one eye lazily. "Mmph... Pheonix Wright n' Co..." He said in a mumbling voice, still half asleep.

"... M-Mr. Wright?" Spoke the voice of Horatio, tone shakey and worried.

"Horatio...?" He blinked his eyes open halfway, not expecting to hear from him again.

"I... I kinda need your help..." He stuttered, sounding like he was going to cry.

"What's the matter? Is un-packing going bad?" He asked, sitting up while running his hand through his hair.

"N-No... I've been charged with murder!!" He blurted out the final part of the sentence, words indeed shaking; He was crying a little bit, one could tell.

"Murder?! Of who?" He sat up straight in a bolt, eyes widening a little. He couldn't imagine a boy like Horatio comitting murder, he didn't look like he could kill a fly if he was paid to!

"O-One of the gardener's that works f-for the Jadeson's... T-They found him lying in one of the flower beds this morning, a-and somehow they think I did it! I was asleep in my home all night, I swear!!"

"Ok, ok, I believe you. I was by your house last night, remember? Now, who do you think might've put the blame on you?"

"I d-don't know- What? No, I only need a few more minutes!" Horatio seemed to speak to someone else in the room, hearing another voice telling him time was up. "N-No, just another minute! AGH!" Sounds of struggle soon sounded out, followed by the sound of him crying out, "Pheonix! Help!!" before the phone was abruptly hung up. Pheonix sat there for a few moments, before hanging up the phone himself, rubbing his eyes to clean the sleep out of them.

'Well. Least I have something to occupy my time now.' He thought to himself, before standing from his desk and making his way out of the office, and heading for the police station.

* * *

January 16, 11:43 AM
Police Department
Criminal Affairs

* * *

"What do you mean, I can't see him?!" Pheonix barked in slight anger as a police officer blocked him from entering the Detention Center.

"Sorry bub, but I got strict order's to not let anyone visit Mr. Asnon." The officer said firmly, arms folded.

"But he called me, he wants me to be his defense! He asked for my help!"

"Got anything to prove it?"

"Who ordered you?" He decided to change the subject; He had nothing, really.

"Gloria Jadeson. Now buzz off, before I put you in a holding cell." He said with a frown, scooting Pheonix away. He began to slowly walk away with a deep frown of his own on his face, mumbling to himself.

"Hey, pal!" He heard that familiar voice, turning to see **** walking towards him with his usual big smile.

"Morning, Detective Gumshoe." Pheonix replied, frown still on his face.

"Whoa, looks like the Sand-Man skipped your place last night." He said, noting the lawyer's tired expression. "You ok?"

"Not really... Did you bring in Horatio Asnon earlier?"

"Oh yeah, the butler kid. Kinda surprised he'd do something like that... Sheesh."

"I know he didn't do it."

"Huh? How do you know that? Were you a witness?!" **** said, turning offensive rather quickly, scowling.

"No, no!" Pheonix snapped out of his tired self to his defensive one's, hands coming up.
"It's just that Horatio said he was at his home all night sleeping, and I believe him!"

"Oh." He suddenly turned back to a calm demeanor, rubbing his neck once. "Soooo... What, did he want you to be his defense?"

"Yes, actually. I was going to see him, but it looks like Gloria has a order to not let anyone see him."

"Say what?" His eyes widened a little. "I never got that memo!"

"Go ask the officer over-" Pheonix turned to point towards the Detention Center, but saw no officer standing there anymore. "... W-Well... There was a officer there..."

"... Did the Sand-Man maybe bump your head, too?" **** said with a frown, before Pheonix gave a sigh, walking away and into the Detention Center.


* * *

January 16, 11:50 AM
Detention Center Visitor's Room

* * *

"Pheonix!" Horatio blurted out when he was sat down in front of the two-way glass. No longer dressed in lounge attire, he was dressed in his work uniform; A black suit of normal standards but having a bright, gold tie that stopped at his stomache. "What took you so long, man?!"

"It looked like someone didn't want me to see you..." Pheonix mumbled to himself, rubbing his chin.

"What?"

"Nothing. How're you holding up?"

"Take a guess." He said glumly; His cheeks were red, not from embaressment, but from crying, his eyes still a little moist around the edges. "I feel like such a wuss right now... But this is all so un-fair..."

"Alot of people can feel hopeless at a time like this; But that's why I'm here. I need you to tell me everything that happened the morning you went to the Jadeson's home, ok?"

"Ok-k..." Horatio took a deep breath, wipped his eyes clean, before beginning to speak.

"I woke up like I usually do; At 6:00 AM on the nose to get up, get dressed, eat, and be out the door to the Jadeson's manor... I took the bus since my car is in the shop for repairs, so naturally traffic slowed me down, and got there at around 6:20 AM. That point I got off the bus, and started walking towards the manor. I got to the corner of the street when I saw someone laying down in one of the flower bed's. I moved up, and saw that it was one of the manor gardener's and he wasn't m-moving... Only a few minutes later, I heard Mrs. Jadeson scream from one of the manor windows, and saw her on the phone talking to someone, and right away, a bunch of police car's were around me and had me arrested..."
His eyes were turned down by the time he was finished talking, looking ready to cry again. "... I swear, I found him like that by the time I got there!" Pheonix nodded to all of this, deciding to take this down as Horatio's testimony before putting it into his coat pocket for later evidence.

"Ok... So who was the gardener, exactly?"

"I don't know; He was some new guy just recently hired, I g-guess. This was the first time I've ever seen him..."

"Where was Tony?"

"Mr. J-Jadeson? Out, at a meeting I think."

"Does he know about this?"

"I think he does." He nodded, fighting back his tears. Pheonix nodded as well, taking all of this together.

"... When is the trial date?"

"Three days from now."

'Not alot of time...' Pheonix thought; But it was better then nothing. "Ok. I'm going to go to the crime scene and see what I can find. I'll be back sometime tomorrow. Try to keep a brave face, ok?"

"I'll t-try." Horatio nodded slowly, before Pheonix gave him a sympathetic smile, before leaving. He was headed towards the main door out before he almost ran into Tony head-first.

"Mr. Jadeson?" He blinked, looking up at him in slight surprise.

"... Wright." Was all Tony said, before looking back at him with a firm gaze. "... I suppose you know something is amiss with my wife?"

"I have my thoughts, yes." He looked back just as firmly now.

"... Prove Horatio's innocence, and I'll tell you what you need to know." He said, before walking past him briskly and disappearing into the station. Pheonix frowned slightly, before slowly walking outside, slipping his hands into his pockets as the sun shined down on him warmly.

'Oh. You bet I will.'

You know that there is something rotten in *Place name of location here* when the person you saw the night before is framed for murdering some one that very same night, or the next morning.

Especially when you already have suspicions on somebody at the residence where the murder occured.

And who was that mysterious goon that blocked Phoenix's path earlier?

Hmm... This case just gets wierder and wierder.

:excited: :victory: :cheer: Keep up the good work you two!

OH!

Lest I forget..

I have four words for ye both:


YOU PASS!

FLAWLESS VICTORY! ^_^

New chapter for this from Dino.





* * *
January 16, 2:03 PM
Downtown Class District
* * *


It'd be a cold, dreary morning by the time Pheonix arrived at the crime scene; The Jadeson manor no longer looked like a elegant looming castle, but a lumbering pinnacle of raw malevolence. The usual bright colors were dull from the lack of light in the sky as clouds loomed overhead. A low wind blew by, making him shudder from the chill, causing him to tighten his jacket a little to conserve body heat. It seemed that it was still a little early for the police force, as only a couple of officer's, plus **** were on the scene, examining and checking the surroundings for clues of any sorts.

"Hey, pal!" **** chirped when he noticed the lawyer, giving a wave. "What brings you around here?"

"I'm Horatio's defense." Pheonix replied lightly, hands in his pockets to keep them warm.

"Oh no." He smacked a hand to his face. "Let me guess; You want all the details you can possibly get, right?"

"Pretty much." He nodded slowly to that.

"Well, afraid I can't tell or give you anything."

"Why?"

"Because the chief gave me specific order's not to give out any details to the media, citizens, or family." He said somewhat firmly now.

"Media, citizens, or family..." Pheonix rubbed his chin for a moment, trying to come up with a way of fooling the detective this time. "... Detective, if that's the case, then you can tell me everything!"

"What?"

"Media, citizens, or family, right? There's nothing there about lawyers!" He said, a little smile coming to his face. **** stood there for a few moments, mulling over this fact for a while inside of his head.

"I... I guess you're right." He said finally, rubbing the back of his head. "Alright. I guess I can tell you a few things..." He pulled out a light brown envelope from his jacket, handing it to Pheonix right away. "Here's the autopsy report. Single wound to the back of the head, but it's got a really weird shape..."

"What exactly does it look like?" Pheonix held onto the report, opting to read it a little later.

"Looks like some kind of tool or kitchen utensil... thing. We still don't know."

"Can I see it?"

"'Fraid not, pal." **** shook his head slowly. "I can't let anyone see the body right now either."

"Chief's orders?"

"Pretty much." He nodded, repeating him from earlier.

"Mind if I look around, Detective?" He asked now, beginning to open the autopsy report, hand on the contents inside.

"Sure thing, pal. Just don't touch nothing, got it?"

"Of course." Pheonix nodded, **** soon walking away to get back to his duties. When he was gone, he took out the report sheet, giving it a thorough read:

Victim: Seymour Fiscal; 23; Gardener
Cause of Death: Blunt force trauma to back of the head, internal bleeding found within brain
Time Of Death: January 16, 5:50 AM - 6:00 AM

"5:50 AM?" Pheonix repeated aloud to himself, looking up for a moment. "So if Horatio came to the manor at 6:20 AM, that means there's no way he could've done it." He frowned, putting the report away before beginning to step forward, though around the crime-scene tape. A patch of violet, lavender flower's had been crushed and flattened down, with splashes of red liquid all around and on top of the flower's; This was apparently where Seymour died exactly, he concluded. The police seemed to have beaten him to clues, since there was nothing out of the ordinary, besides the fact that the flower-bed was surrounded by tape, and nothing else. He frowned hard, looking for something, anything that could be useful or a clue, until he noticed something amongst the grass he was standing on. Kneeling down and rubbing his fingers through a small patch of grass beneath him, he found a few droplets of red liquid as well; Blood from the flower's, and leading away? Standing, he kept his eyes down as he followed the tiny trail from the front lawn to the side of the manor, where the trail would end beside a pair of wooden cellar doors that would lead, apparently, into a basement of some sorts. Hand-prints were on the door's and the handles themselves, also coated in that crimson fluid, but they were incredibly smudged, so much so that gaining any finger-prints would be impossible. Something was down there; There had to be, but touching the handles would mean he'd also touch the blood, in turn making himself a suspect. 'Damn.' He thought, rubbing his chin slowly as he tried to think of a cunning plan, but came up with only one: "Detective Gumshoe!" He called out, waving to the officer's in front of the manor. "I found something!" 'What am I doing?!' His mind screamed, though didn't silence himself. He'd need to find another way in, but at least the blood could be tested to see who was frantically trying to get down there in the first place. A few officer's wandered over, talked among themselves as they examined the door's, before giving Pheonix a curious look, also calling **** over.

"Well, look at that." He frowned, rubbing his head slowly as he also bent down to look at the cellar door's. "Looks like the murderer or the victim was trying to make a escape."

"I think the same." Pheonix nodded to the detective's evaluation.

"Good find there pal, though you don't usually tell us these things." He stood back up, looking to the attorney curiously. True; In past cases, Pheonix had always kept important clues to himself for trials, leaving the police in the dark. But this time, some cunning was needed on his part. "Lookin' to join the police force, huh?" He said, giving a big grin.

"N-No," Pheonix tore his eyes from the cellar and to the detective. "Just... Thought you might want to know that this was here. That's all."

"You said you're Horatio's defense, huh?" He suddenly changed the topic.

"Yes, I am."

"Kinda weird. No family or friends have called the station asking about him." His grin faded, replaced by a thoughtful look. "You'd think they'd know by now, huh?"

"Yeah..." A small nod in agreement. '... Or maybe he has none.' He thought a little sadly. "Detective, Horatio said that the victim, Seymour, was newly hired by the Jadeson's. Do you know why someone would've been out to get him?"

"Who knows?" **** shrugged, his usual content appearance back to his face. "All we found on his body was a wallet, still full of cards and money, his worker ID, and a little tape recorder." He named off the items, counting them off his fingers. Pheonix stood straight now, looking to the detective; It was time for a little questioning now.

"Detective, about that tape recorder..."

"Yeah, pal?"

"Was there anything in it?"

"Sure. A tape was inside, but it was beaten up like no tomorrow; Playing it back is pretty pointless, since all you can really make out is 'Gloria' and 'Katrina' a few times. Our sound guys are trying to clean up the static and maybe fix it." **** looked to the officer's for a moment, before back to him.

"Worker ID...the Jadeson's give them to employees?" Pheonix decided to move on; Though the tape recorder did sound a little curious.

"Guess so. New worker's get a ID card that lets them into restricted rooms or areas to let them do work, I think."

"Restricted rooms?"

"Like bedrooms or storage rooms, y'know." He pulled out his badge for a moment for effect. "This proves I work for the force, and let's me into crime scenes and into the station."

"I get it." He nodded, rubbing his chin again; Seemed questioning wasn't getting a lot of results, nor was searching the scene. "Alright, thanks Detective. I'm going to go look around again." He said, before turning around and walking back onto the front lawn, sighing. He walked around the other side of the manor, humming as he came across a garden shed that was painted a dark green, with the door partially ajar, hanging from half of its hinge. Walking forward, he carefully opened the door while being careful not to break it off, peering inside; Even with the over-head cloud cover, there was still enough light to filter in to illuminate the shed, showing off a assortment of power tools, clippers, wedges, and other garden tools that hung off hooks or rested on shelves. They were all rather well kept, with each blade, edge, and handle cleaned to near perfection, though one space on a shelf seemed oddly empty. He walked inside now, feet stepping lightly over the hard-wood floor as he took a closer look at the shelf; It held a row of spades that started from small, growing larger and larger until he reached the end of the shelf, with a spade so big it could be used to handle pizza's. Though in the middle there was a spade missing, with only a small layer of dirt across the spot, showing it was just recently moved. With digital camera out once again, he snapped a picture of the empty space amidst the spades, settling camera and picture away for now. Everything else seemed to be in place, and with a little sniff he turned, easing the door open when he stepped out, and closing it just as carefully when he was done. He rubbed his eyes slowly as he mulled over everything he had gained for the day; A few pieces of not-so useful information, and a picture for evidence. While things looked bleak, there was still that cellar... Something was there for sure, and he needed to get down there.

He only had another two and a half days left, too.

Another New Chapter, as always from Dinoracha.




* * *
January 16, 7:03 PM
Downtown Class District
* * *


Night-time would soon approach as Pheonix gathered his evidence up and began to march away from the Jadeson manor, hands in his pocket as a look of defeat was on his face; First day of investigating turned up next to nothing, it looked like. As he walked away, he felt a sudden hand be placed on his shoulder, his eyes opening a little wider before he heard a female voice say quietly,

"Don't turn around. I have some information for you."

"W-Who are you?"

"I saw the murder. I saw who did it."

"You did?!" He almost turned around, before the hand shook him once lightly.

"Don't turn around!" She hissed fiercely, before he kept still again.

"So who did it?"

"It wasn't Horatio. He's innocent."

"I know that; There's no way he would've done it."

"I know. I worked with him. He knows about Katrina, and someone wants to do him in."

"Do him in?"

"Someone wants him dead, or in jail to keep him quiet." The hand slowly moved of his shoulder, before something was placed into his hand. "Show this to Horatio. It should make him talk."

"And if it doesn't?"

"Then you need to work your miracle's again, Pheonix." The voice by now calmed down, almost soothing to listen to.

"Tell me who did it!"

"I can't. There's eyes on me, and on you."

"I need to know!"

"It'll come to you, Pheonix. It'll come. Just remember this name, but say it at your own risk." He could feel her approach from behind, lips just at his ear as he felt whispered words seep from those lips. "Dark Star." Was all he heard, before silence. After a few moments he peered behind him, before turning around all together, seeing no one, nor a trace of them. He looked down to his hand, seeing there was a picture there now; It was a colour picture, showing Katrina and Horatio together at a bright sunny beach near the ocean, with Katrina in a yellow bikini, and Horatio in black swim-trunks, their faces filled with joy with massive smile's on their face, his arm wrapped around her waist. Pheonix's eyes slowly scanned the picture, taking in every detail, before one finally came to light; This must have been what Horatio was hiding! At least, so he thought. All the picture said was that the two seemed to have been friends that went on a holiday. How would this make Horatio open up? A sense of hopelessness began to come over him, putting the picture in his pocket, before his hands went over his eyes, taking in a few deep breaths. He let his thoughts linger on the name 'Dark Star'; Why say it at his own risk? It seemed to be similar with the High Star business, but there couldn't be a relation... Could there?

"Detective!" Pheonix called out as the police were packing up for the night, beginning to climb into their squad car's to return to the station. "Detective Gumshoe, one more question!" He ran towards them, tie flapping wildly as he saw **** begin to step into his car, then poke his head back out at hearing his name.

"What's up, pal?" He said as he stepped out completely, waving for the officer's to go on without him. Pheonix stopped in front of him, panting slightly; He really needed to work out more.

"De... Detective... Gah..." He coughed a few times before standing up completely, cheeks a little red. "... S-Sorry, but I only have a few more questions to ask..."

"Go ahead!" He said with his trade-mark grin, hands in his coat pockets as he looked down at him.

"Does the name 'Dark Star' ring any bells to you?" Pheonix said after gaining his composure; This seemed like a long-shot, but he might as well go for it.

"Dark Star?" **** looked at him for a few moments, before a deep frown came to his lips, all joy suddenly sapped from him. "... Pal, who told you about them?"

"Them?" He blinked, surprised at ****'s sudden demeanor; Seemed like he hit a nerve or something.

"Dark Star... Crud. We've been after them for years and years, but no luck."

"Who are they?"

"High Star's rival. High Star sells expensive stuff, Dark Star steals it from them and sells it for even more."

" Why?"

"We dunno. All we know is that Dark Star wants High Star out of the picture, and they'll do anything to get what they want; Murders, theft, threats...they got more charges then... Then, uh... I can count!" He couldn't think of a witty metaphor for that.

"Why not take them down?"

"That's the problem! We can't find them! We only find their crime and chaos, but never the actual criminals! They're like ghosts or something." He frowned more, shaking his head. Pheonix mulled over all of this, before he had a very sickening thought come to mind, swallowing hard.

" Detective, do you think they'd go as far as kidnapping?"

"I dunno, they could-" **** started, then his eyes bugged wide. "You don't think..."

"That Dark Star may have kidnapped Katrina? I do."

"Oh, OH!" He shouted, quickly climbing into his car. "Pal, you've just given me a idea, I gotta go tell the chief!" He waved to him, before quickly speeding away, leaving Pheonix alone in front of the manor.

"You're... welcome?" He blinked, dusting himself off from the car exhaust, before looking to the manor, staring at it hard. "Time for another round with Tony." He said lowly, as he walked towards the front door; He had a good amount of evidence, plus some new information; It was time to break Mr. Jadeson down.

Another update from Dino.





* * *

January 16, 7:21 PM
Downtown Class District

* * *


"Mr. Jadeson!" Pheonix called out as he knocked firmly on the manor doors, his knocking growing firmer with each series of knocks. "Mr. Jadeson, it's important that I speak with you!" He frowned as his knuckle was growing sore, switching to the other one. He went on for another two minutes before the door opened partway, a maid girl standing in the doorway.

She was wearing a classic French Maid uniform though with a slightly longer skirt, but without a headdress. A series of small, white bows were around her neck-line, with apron in front of her chest and down her stomach. Her cocoa brown hair was drift free, falling down to a little past the base of her spine, where it had an abrupt straight cut. Her complexion was clean of any imperfection, and looked rather charming for the most part, with light blue eyes appearing a little tired, but rather alert still. She stood just a few inches under Pheonix, though she still seemed somewhat aged; Early 30's, he guessed.

"Oh, h-hello." He said, fixing his tie.

"Is Mr. Jadeson in?" Phoenix asked.

She looked at him for a few moments before opening the door wide for him, not saying anything. She pointed towards the living room, where Tony was sitting upon the couch, hands clasped under his chin in thought. Phoenix nodded his thanks to the maid before walking over to the living room, clearing his throat; He felt like he should be wearing boxing gloves at this time, since a tension could be felt in the air.

"Mr. Jadeson." He said.

"I knew you'd come. Sit. I won't attack you this time." Tony said in a gloomy tone, motioning towards the seat in front of him. "I must apologize the last time you were here when I spoke with you." He said as Pheonix sat down, who waved his hand.

"I'm past it. You were expecting me?"

"I had a feeling you wouldn't wait past the trial. It was a matter of time." Tony looked at him with a sad expression within his eyes. Pheonix nodded, before a boxing ring bell sounded off a few times within his head; Time for Round 2.

"Mr. Jadeson-" He started, before Tony cut him off.

"Formalities are not needed. Tony is fine.

"Ok; Tony, obviously we both know Horatio is innocent, but he said a few things that got me thinking."

"That being?"

"About my last visit. You ordered him to 'change' a few things around the manor." He fixed his tie again out of habit, Tony shifting a little bit.

"Change a few things? Ridiculous." He said with a huff, looking away and out the window. Pheonix smiled a little; Pulling out the two picture's of the door-knobs and the bloody lily, showing them to him.

"Explain this, then." When Tony looked back, his eyes widened a little, shifting a little in his seat a few more times.

"Just...simple changes."

"But a bloody flower? I don't think that's very simple." Pheonix frowned; He knew he was onto something.

"A gardener cut themselves by accident!" He blurted out, cheeks turning a little red.

"Weird..." Phoenix shook his head, showing him the pictures deliberately now. "Horatio said someone bumped their head on the door-knob, but they don't look really dangerous. Why no blood there, but on the flower?" He tilted his head to one side; Already Tony was struggling to find a way to explain it, giving a few small shakes, closing his eyes.

"There was a fight, dammit!!" He barked suddenly, making Pheonix jump a little from fright. "A fight occurred a few days before Seymour's death!"

"A fight? Between who?"

"Horatio and Seymour! I don't know over what." Tony put a hand over his eyes, shaking his head. "Something about a secret or something childish." Pheonix's eyes widened a little himself; A fight between Horatio and Seymour? This already looked bad.

"So they fought, and damaged the door knob and got blood on the flowers?"

"Horatio took the most of it. He didn't hit his head, but was pushed into the door by Seymour, before he really took a beating. Horatio was bleeding all over his face when he fell into the flower-bed, so we got them both changed; We were going to do it later, but when you came by, we decided to do it right away in case you got the wrong idea."

"Horatio lost?"

"Lost badly." Tony lowered his hand, looking back to him as he calmed down now. It looked worse now; This would give the prosecution motive against Horatio.

"Tony, I'm troubled by something though." Pheonix rubbed his chin. "Horatio seems like a peaceful person. Did he start the fight?"

"When I listened to them both, it sounded like Seymour started it all. But they refused to say what started the whole thing. I don't even think that Horatio even tried to fight back. Wright," He sat forward, hands clasped together. "Horatio is a good worker. On time, always cheerful, got everything done and done properly. He's only a teenager, for pete sakes!" He said with a slight tone of desperation in his voice. "I have no idea who could've done it. But Horatio didn't!"

"I know. Everything seems too...coincidental." Pheonix nodded, putting the pictures away, before pulling out the picture given to him by the mystery woman; the one depicting Horatio and Katrina. "Mr. Ja- I mean, Tony." He corrected himself of formality. "Does this picture mean anything to you?" He asked, showing it to him.

"Not entirely." Tony said after examining it for a while. "Katrina went to a beach resort once with a group of friends and invited him along. Funny, I don't see any of her friends in the picture." He rubbed his cheek, frowning. "Where'd you get this?"

"A source." He said quickly, placing the picture away back into his coat. "Tony, one more thing." He sat up straight, taking in a deep breath. "What is 'Dark Star'?" He asked, though seemed to slow down in speech like he wanted to change his mind; he really wanted to now, since a look of anger came over Tony's face.

"Who told you of them?" He said with a deep growl. Phoenix swallowed lightly, knowing something was really up now. "I...suppose you know nothing of my company?" He asked after a moment, Phoenix again shook his head, while Tony sighed. "High Star is a corporation started by my family 100 years ago, founded by my great grand-father, Giuseppe Jadeson. While we do make our own merchandise in factories, most of our products come from trade with other countries. We may trade a shipment of cars to France in return for a shipment of baked goods. We'll trade part of those baked goods to Canada in return for furniture, and so on and so forth. We buy, sell, and trade all of our products; We specialize in nothing, but excel in everything. Does that make sense?"

"Sounds like High Star is a big trading post." Pheonix nodded, letting this sink in.

"However..." He sighed once more. "There is a new company that has surfaced. Or I should say, burrowed, calling themselves Dark Star. They are similar to my company, except they steal, bribe, and blackmail for their merchandise, and sell them for ridiculous prices on the black market, even going as far as to kill and destroy to make a profit. They've targeted High Star for most of the robberies or other acts. Ever since Dark Star formed, I've found that many of my workers are vanishing, quitting their jobs, or are spreading rumors about like the plague." He placed his hands over his eyes, closing them. "I'm losing hope." While he listened, Phoenix decided to keep the kidnapping theory to himself. The man was already distraught enough.

"Tony?"

"Yes?"

"Your wife, Gloria, I-" He went to speak, but was cut off when he heard a deep clearing of the throat, turning to see Gloria standing by the stairs, arms folded and foot tapping impatiently.

"Why, hellooooo Mr. Wright!" She bellowed, though was frowning deeply. "Did I not say that you shouldn't come here anymore?"

"I know you have something behind Horatio's framing." Phoenix stood and said, fists clenched. "He told me you called the police. But that's not how it went, was it?"

"Why, what are you babbling about?" She laughed now, bringing a hand to her mouth. "Horatio slayed that poor man in cold blood! I saw it all with my own eyes!"

"You're lying!" He yelled, pointing at her, eyebrows furrowing low.

"Then prove it! You don't even have the spade he used!"

"I-" He went to speak again, then paused, arm lowering. "Spade?" He blinked, remembering there was a missing spade in the garden shed, Gloria giving a huff at the slip of her tongue.

"No matter. Run along now, I need to give my dear husband a good talking to!" She said, moving a scoot-scoot motion with her hands. He turned his eyes down to Tony, who only mouthed the words, 'Help me' to him. Phoenix gave a small shudder before giving a consoling nod to him, gathering up his evidence, then made to the door, though paused when his hand gripped the knob.

"I'm going to prove Horatio innocent." He said darkly, turning a glare at Gloria. "And when I do, don't be too far away when the police come for you."

"We'll see, now won't we?" She replied, wearing a big, plastered smile to her face. He wanted to punch her oh-so badly and wipe that look off her face, but he decided to save it for the courtroom. Opening the door and closing it behind him when he stood back out into the night air.

He had something to work with now, but the sense of doom was still unshakable.

New update from Dino.




With a new day came new weather; Today, the sky would be fairly clear with the sun shining bright, causing the air to be fairly warm during the morning. This was welcomed by Pheonix, as he still felt somewhat gloomy from yesterday's victory and defeat. He only had today and tomorrow until the trial would begin, and while he had some interesting information, he didn't have any real solid evidence at his disposal, and he still had plenty of questions fluttering about in his head. He decided the first thing to do would be to visit Horatio, as that mystery picture given to him was still itching at his curiosity. His morning walk would lead him to the police station, entering quietly.

* * *
January 17, 12:02 PM
Detention Center
Visitor's Room

* * *

Pheonix eased himself into one of the hard, steel chairs in front of Horatio; The teenager looking still rather defeated, his eyes turned down as little emotion, besides despair, remained on his face.

"Hi." Was all he said, before falling silent.

"Hi Horatio... How're you holding up?" Pheonix placed his hands on the ledge, keeping them clasped together.

"I'm really not liking this place." He shook his head, letting out a long sigh.

"I can bet. I was in here once too."

"You got arrested once?" He lifted his head, eyes widening a little. Pheonix only nodded; He was arrested before, but falsely. He was investigating Mia's murder when he met Redd White, a con-man who used blackmail to get his ways, and indeed used blackmail in order to get Pheonix arrested. Even though Pheonix had to defend himself in trial, he still won, and proved Redd was the real murderer. Now that he thought about Mia, he too felt like crying all of a sudden.

'Mia... I need your help so badly right now...' He thought to himself, his face turning rather worried. Ever since her death, Mia could still appear occasionally using the psychic abilities, much like the one's that Maya had. Mia had often 'possessed' Maya in order to speak to Pheonix, but Maya was gone. Mia was gone. He had to fight this war all by himself, and he was all out of reinforcements.

"... Pheonix?" Horatio asked shakily, also growing worried over his expression.

"Huh? Oh." He shook his head quickly to snap out of his negative state of mind. "Yes, I was arrested falsely just like you. I know where you're coming from."

"So," He seemed to be a little more alert now. "Did you find anything? If you've come by, you must have something...?" He leaned forward a little in excitement.

"Funny you should say that," He sat up straight, his face turning serious. He had to get some serious information out of him, otherwise he'd be stuck for good. It was questioning time once again. He pulled out the picture given to him by that mysterious woman, showing it to him. "Horatio, can you tell me about this picture?"

"Uhm," Horatio's cheeks turned a slight hint of red all of a sudden, eyes widening more. "W-Where did you get that?"

"From a source." He replied firmly, keeping the picture held up. "Now, care to explain what's going on here?"

"K-Katrina and I went on a trip with a bunch of her f-friends. That's all."

"Why do I see only you and her? If there were a bunch of friends, wouldn't they join in the picture too?"

"T-They were off doing swimming or at the r-resort."

"Now, why would, and no offense, would Katrina invite one of her butler's along for a vacation?" He set the picture down, folding his arms over his chest. Horatio began to shake a little, biting down on his lip as he stared at the picture. "Horatio." He said firmly, watching his nervous reactions with intent. "Horatio!"

"I don't know!!" He finally blurted out, cheeks deeply flushed now. "I don't know why she invited me! She just did!" He put his face within his hands, body quivering.

"She just came up to you and asked if you wanted to come?" Pheonix blinked, rubbing his chin slowly in thought. 'There's something more.' He thought, lowering his hand. "I don't believe you." He said lightly.

"W-What?" Horatio lifted his head up, blinking a few times.

"You're lying Horatio; You knew exactly why Katrina invited you along, and it has something to do with the fight between you and Seymour!"

"How d-do you know about the fight we had?" He looked rather frightened now.

"When I asked Tony about the door-knobs, he told me that you and Seymour were fighting over a 'secret', according to him. He also said that you were pushed into the door-knob, as well as you were beaten rather badly, which is how blood got all over those flower's. If you lied to me then, then you're lying now!" His eyebrows furrowed down in slight anger; He was getting tired of being played around.

"I'm t-telling you, I don't-" He was quickly cut off.

"What did you and Seymour fight about?"

"W-Well." Horatio turned silent rather sudden, keeping his eyes turned down.
"Horatio!"

"No." He shook his head, turning his head down all the way now. "I can't. She'll kill me too."

"I said- ... Wait, what?" Pheonix lifted a finger to object to his reply, but stopped himself mid-sentence. "Who's she?" He put his hands back on the ledge, eyebrows quirking up now.

"You....Should probably go now." He said in a near whisper, hair drifting in front of his eyes to hide them.

"Horatio, who's she? Is it Gloria?" He asked, rising off his seat a little.

"Bye." Was all Horatio said before standing, walking past the guard and back to the holding cells.

"Horatio! Horatio!!" He yelled after him, but he kept walking until he was out of sight and away. "Damn!" He slammed his hand on the ledge, closing one eye as he felt the slight pain from hitting the cold metal. He was running out of options; Horatio knew something, Gloria had Tony on a chain, and he still didn't even have the murder weapon! He had only one more option left, and if it paid off, he'd probably be able to dig himself out of this hole that had been dug for him.

The cellar to the Jadeson manor; He needed down there. He needed down there, now.

Ugh. Reason is in next post comin' up.

WHAT THE?! DETECTIVE GUMSHOE IS THE PROSECUTIONS FIRST WITNESS?!

Oh dear...

Phoenix may have his hands full with this new Prosicution Lawyer, Dino.

Him sending a supposed trump card like that in the first round of the proceedings..

Needless to say I am a little worried. :worried:

In any case (no pun intended)..

I have four words for you, no matter how much you despise them, Dinoracha...

YOU PASS!

FLAWLESS VICTORY! ^_^

Oh..

Before you say anything about "Objections" to the above four words, Dino..

...

...

I have two words that Counter that. ^^

...

...

...


OVER RULED!


Please continue when you may, amigo. ^^

Nice Dino, but...I never put up chapter 18. *sweatdrop*

Right. So it seems I got a little mis-directed on what chapter went where. That previous chapter you all would've read was actually 3 updates LATER. I'll be putting up chapter 16 here shortly, so sorry about the mix-up.

(Right, so here's Chapter 16 that is supposed to be right after Chapter 15. Let's try this again, HUZZAH! Also, the Detective's name is blurred out still. I found a way around it, DOUBLE HUZZAH!)

Chapter 16 - The Cellar Door's Finally Open

* * *

January 17, 12:30 PM
Police Department
Criminal Affairs

* * *

"You want what?" D1ck blinked at the sudden request made by the young attorney.
"I want a search warrant to the cellar of the Jadeson manor." Pheonix repeated himself for the fifth time, face looking rather stern. "I think there's something down there vital for my case."
"But pal, we combed the cellar three times over, there was nothing there!"
"I still