Hunter Frost: Ace Attorney

[Deleted]

Now, for the real story.

THIS WILL CONTAIN IMPLIED AND/OR DIRECT SPOILERS FOR 1-4

Anyway, now that that's out of the way, time to start...

FROSTBURN TURNABOUT

[Deleted]

Reborn Town
Sunday, September 17, 2011
9:00 PM, NST

*Hunter Frost, Vision of Nightmare, and Fantasy of Nightmare are standing in what was once the Bleak Town from IT3. Now, it is a bustling town, with people all over.*

: Wow, this place is looking great! Thanks for letting me visit.

: We've been putting in a lot of work since Escritor was defeated.

: Speaking of work, I should make some last checks on the house you'll be staying in.

---

TALK


The Nightmares
: (The Nightmares are... an interesting group of people. Memory and Vision were the first to show up. They caused some trouble in the Icy Taco, but I didn't know what they were then.)

: (Then, they tried to frame Doc for murder, and their leader, Premonition, was introduced.)

: (Later, those three Nightmares captured Doc, Glitchio, and I, plus they recruited some other villains. That was when we met Fantasy, a traitor to them.)

: (Recently, the Forum was attacked by their creator, a man by the name of King Escritor. He was basically controlling the Nightmares, so when he was defeated, they split. Premonition is still keeping his ideals, Memory wants to cause chaos, and Vision joined Fantasy.)

: The Nightmares, fortunately, will not threaten anyone anymore.

Reborn Town
: When the Tacoers came through here the first time, this town was destroyed.

: I didn't see it for myself, but I did hear that.

: When the townsfolk stopped being controlled by Escritor, they started rebuilding. It wasn't easy, though, since all the trees were petrified...

SPOILER: Click to show

: This is my Attorney's Badge. It is a symbol that I am a professional.

: I can only hope there won't be need for that. It has been relatively calm here lately.

: ...

SPOILER: Click to show

: I have nothing to say.

SPOILER: Click to show

: I was the first to break free of Escritor's grip, but Vision has told me that there was some dissension among the ranks after my escape.

: Really?

: ...Mostly Memory wanted to ignore orders and just blow stuff up.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Vision is still tortured by his past. He does not know how he could possibly make amends.

: Well, he did kill Escritor...

: That's a part of it. Even though he was evil, being raised in Motinspire makes one view killing a Writer comparable to deicide.

EXAMINE

SPOILER: Click to show

: That's where you'll be staying.

: Why are there so many empty houses?

: The town... lost a few people since Escritor took over.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Are those...?

: The men that were turned into the shadow creatures of Motinspire's army. Many of them keep the same clothing, as it is pretty much all they have now. Plus, some have just gotten used to it.

COURT RECORD

SPOILER: Click to show

Attorney's Badge

Obtained: One of my possessions
Type: Other

My Attorney's Badge. A symbol that I am a professional... or can write one into existence.

Magatama

Obtained: One of my possessions
Type: Other

A frozen magatama charged with aura energy. It allows me to see the truth.

SPOILER: Click to show

Fantasy

Full name: Fantasy of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares, and one of my allies.

Vision

Full name: Vision of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares, and one of my allies. Tormented by his past.

MOVE
>> Guest House <<

---

Guest House
Sunday, September 17, 2011

TALK


Vision of Nightmare
: It is... understandable if you do not trust me. After all I've done.

: Vision, if Fantasy trusts you, I trust you.

This House
: After Escritor took over, this town lost people in his conquests. That's why this house is empty.

: I kind of feel bad living here now.

: The town is growing to accept its fate. Though there is a reason I choose to live in the fallen castle.

SPOILER: Click to show

: This is my Attorney's Badge. It is a symbol that I am a professional.

: I assure you that you will not need that.

: ...

SPOILER: Click to show

: I have nothing to conceal, Hunter Frost! Do you not trust me!?

: I didn't mean anything by that! I'm sorry!

SPOILER: Click to show

: I am... relieved that Fantasy trusted me. Though I should have gone with him when he first left.

: Why didn't you?

: ...

SPOILER: Click to show

: Who was I before this was my face...? I know not of my past, Escritor erased it.

: Didn't he create you?

: Yes... but I don't believe it was from scratch.

EXAMINE

SPOILER: Click to show

: It looks comfortable, but...

: It is new, do not worry.

: (It just seemed like it might be disrespectful to sleep in the bed of a dead man...)

SPOILER: Click to show

: Just a candle?

: This was a completely medieval setting before Escritor began sending us to other worlds.

SPOILER: Click to show

: There's a nice view of town square.

---

: We will leave you to explore.

: You're leaving?

: I have something I need to do.

: Well, have a good night, then.

---

Motinspire Castle Library
Monday, September 18, 2011
8:30 AM, NST

: Fantasy wanted me to let the past die... But I cannot let that happen.

: I need to find the secrets locked away from my memory.


: I must know what the king wrote before the darkness overtook him.

? ? ?: Foolish man... if you can't lay the past to rest, I'll lay you to rest instead!

---

Guest House
Monday, September 18, 2011
9:00 AM, NST

: It's odd for Vision to be late like this?

: Maybe he got distracted by something?

: He's been spending a lot of time in the castle's library. We should check there.

---

Motinspire Castle Library
Monday, September 18, 2011
9:30 AM, NST

*They find Vision bound to the ground with icy manacles on his arms and legs, a sword of a strange material protruding from his chest. There is blood on the floor.*

: Vision! Who did this to you!?

: Y-you... Hunter... Frost...

: ...He's dead.

: We need to-

: I'm sorry, Mr. Frost, but I'm going to need to put you under arrest.

To be continued...

[Deleted]

Detention Center
Monday, September 18, 2011
11:00 AM, NST[/size]

*Hunter Frost is behind the glass of the Detention Center.*

: ...Thank you for coming so quickly.

: There's no need to thank me, Mr. Frost. Now, tell me about this case.

: (My name is Mohandas Gandhi. Though better known for my experiments with truth and my help in liberating India, I was formerly a barrister, or a lawyer. Now, as a spirit in a robot, I live in the Forum.)

---

TALK


The Case
: I know you gave me all the details you know over the telephone, but I am still a bit confused...

: ...Aren't we all.

: I'll be serving as my own defense in the case, with you as co-council, but I can't leave here and I need somebody to investigate for me.

: I'll be sure to record the investigation for you.

: ...Is there anything Partenen didn't build into you?

: ...I'm not sure.

: I bet he didn't give you one of these, though.


~Magatama added to the Court Record!~

: (What's this...?)

What to Do
: Where should I go first?

: Not sure. The police have got the crime scene closed off, probably, but you might be able to get some information out of them.

PRESENT: Magatama

: What is this, exactly...?

: The Kurain Channeling Technique has some experiments with truth as well. That magatama will help you see if somebody is hiding something. I'm sure you'll see what I mean later.

SPOILER: Click to show

: It's been a long time since I've been involved in a case.

: No, no, you're supposed to say "This is my Attorney's Badge, it is a symbol that I am a professional".

: ...

SPOILER: Click to show

: Heh, look at that. It's been a while since I've been involved in a case as more than defense...

: Have you been before?

: Ask Uther.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Does Fantasy really suspect you...?

: It's... hard to tell, with him.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Vision had a lot of enemies, a few of them who'd benefit from framing me.

: Do you suspect the other Nightmares?

: I wouldn't rule them out, I'll say that.

EXAMINE

SPOILER: Click to show

: An armored guard?

: He was a knight under Escritor, most likely. Old habits die hard.

SPOILER: Click to show

: An odd Detention Center...

: It used to be a dungeon, but was converted when the castle fell.

COURT RECORD

SPOILER: Click to show

Attorney's Badge

Obtained: One of my possessions
Type: Other

My Attorney's Badge. A symbol that I am a professional. It has been a long time since I served as defense.

Magatama

Obtained: From Hunter Frost at the Detention Center
Type: Other

This will allow me to see the truth, I suppose?

SPOILER: Click to show

Full name: Fantasy of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares. A potential witness in this case.

Vision

Full name: Vision of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares and the victim of the case.

Hunter

Full name: Hunter Frost
Age: 17

The defendant and my Writer. He, myself, and the victim were known to be pacifistic, however...

MOVE
>> Fallen Castle <<

---

Fallen Castle
Monday, September 18, 2011
11:15 AM, NST[/size]

: Hmm... Should I try going to—

? ? ?: The library is closed due to a police investigation! Please continue with your business elsewhere!

: Who are you?

: I am Detective Geary Turns. I am in charge of this case.

: (Might as well ask him some questions.)

TALK


Geary Turns
: Detective Geary Turns, former steampunk in the army of the Enslaver!

: Escritor?

: Do not give that man the respect of his name!

The Investigation
: Detective Turns, do you notice anything about the crime scene?

: You have no right to ask me that, civilian! The library is off-limits and so is the investigation!

: (Worth a shot, I guess...)

Witnesses
: Can there be witnesses in this case if it happened in this library!

: Possibly. We need to look at the security footage at Scuff Security in town.

: Scuff Security?

: Don't bother going there! Scuff won't tell you anything!

SPOILER: Click to show

: This is my Attorney's Badge. It-

: I don't care how professional you are! The crime scene is off limits.

: ...

SPOILER: Click to show

: I can't tell you about that!

SPOILER: Click to show

: I can't believe you're surprised. He's a Writer, and a collaborator with the Enslaver!

: He didn't know, though...

: How is that possible, I wonder? It's not!

SPOILER: Click to show

: The first member of the resistance... The Enslaver gave his little Nightmares more freedom than he gave us.

: Wouldn't you be the ones more likely to resist, then?

: No, because it was actual mind control. We weren't even human.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Fantasy trusted him. That's all I need to know. Not that it matters.

: What do you mean?

: Even Memory, the most chaotic being I've ever heard of, would be preferable to the Enslaver.

SPOILER: Click to show

: I don't need to tell you anything about myself! Go away!

EXAMINE

SPOILER: Click to show

: Odd...

: The castle is sideways. It's a temporary measure so people can get to the doors that are high up the wall.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Is there... carpet on that wall?

: The door was put in recently. That used to be the floor.

COURT RECORD

SPOILER: Click to show

Attorney's Badge

Obtained: One of my possessions
Type: Other

My Attorney's Badge. A symbol that I am a professional. It has been a long time since I served as defense.

Magatama

Obtained: From Hunter Frost at the Detention Center
Type: Other

This will allow me to see the truth, I suppose?

SPOILER: Click to show

Full name: Fantasy of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares. A potential witness in this case.

Vision

Full name: Vision of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares and the victim of the case.

Hunter

Full name: Hunter Frost
Age: 17

The defendant and my Writer. He, myself, and the victim were known to be pacifistic, however...

Turns

Full name: Detective Geary Turns
Age: 35

The detective in charge of the investigation. A former steampunk under Escritor.

MOVE
>> Reborn Town <<

---

Reborn Town
Monday, September 18, 2011
11:50 AM, NST[/size]

: (It would probably be suspicious to ask for directions to Scuff Security... I could take a look at where Mr. Frost was staying, however.)

MOVE
>> Guest House <<

---

Guest House
Monday, September 18, 2011
12:00 PM, NST[/size]

: I suppose seeing where Hunter was staying couldn't hurt...

? ? ?: Unknown guest detected. Recognized as robot. Guest welcome unless Seuss, in which case the authorities will be notified again.

: Who's there!?

: I am DERPREDER, a Windows 7 laptop that owns Hunter Frost.

: Don't you mean he owns you?

: Negative. My initial statement was correct.

: Can you help me?

: Access to information requires a password.

TALK

SPOILER: Click to show

: Password required. Would you like a hint?

: Sure?

: The hint entered by the human was "Don't use my computer."

: ...

EXAMINE

SPOILER: Click to show

: I can see the town from here... I'm going to need directions to find what I'm looking for, however.

Candle
: A human warming and lighting device. How inefficient. What happens when it is extinguished?

: Well, I have a built in flamethrower, along with other weapons...

: My... initial request of a password has been negated. Ask me what you need to.

TALK

SPOILER: Click to show

: So tell me about yourself, Mr... Derpreder.

: I am an Dell Inspiron laptop running Windows 7 Home Premium Edition.

: How long have you known Mr. Frost?

: He purchased me on May 19, 2011.

: ... Anything else you want to say?

: Negative.

The Murder
: Hmm... Mr. Derpreder, can you tell me about Hunter's internet history around approximately 8:30? If he were on the internet, it is an alibi, albeit weak...

: Negative. No internet history from that approximate time.

: Oh no...

: However, chat history from the program Pesterchum is available. Would you like to view it?

: Certainly.

SPOILER: Click to show

-- hobbledehoyFreezer [HF] began pestering medicCant [MC] at 8:20 --

HF: sup doc

MC: ...Why are you awake so early.

HF: Fon and Vis want to show me around town. Plus, it's, what, around eleven-thirty in my timezone? It's not that early.

MC: So you decided to bother me while you wait.

HF: yep

MC: Great. Anyway, you know I still don't trust the doppelganger, right?

HF: He finished off Escritor.

MC: Supposedly. Nightmares are masters at not being what they appear to be. Don't get in trouble.

HF: brb

-- hobbledehoyFreezer [HF] ceased pestering medicCant [MC] at 8:25 --

MC: ... I WAS SAYING SOMETHING IMPORTANT.

-- hobbledehoyFreezer [HF] began pestering medicCant [MC] at 8:35 --

HF: om nom nom breakfast

MC: It took you ten minutes? You usually eat at your computer!

HF: I had to walk to a restaurant in town, no microwave in my house. At least there's wifi here... or something...

MC: This conversation is pointless

-- medicCant [MC] ceased pestering hobbledehoyFreezer [HF] at 8:40 --

: (...Of course there's a ten minute gap around the time of the murder. Why wouldn't there be.)


~Pesterlog added to the Court Record!~

Scuff Security
: Can you give me directions to Scuff Security?

: Accessing search engine: Googant.



: (A bit of a worrying layout...)

: Searching "Scuff Security" Motinspire... Site displayed on screen.

: That's not too far from here, then...

SPOILER: Click to show

: This is my Attorney's Badge. It-

: A metallic trinket signifying professionalism seems an odd human practice to me. Though I assume it is similar to the bitten apple logo showing inferiority in computational technology.

: ... (I use a Mac.)

SPOILER: Click to show

: It is impossible for a computer to keep secrets that can only be accessed by magical means. That is useless here.

SPOILER: Click to show

: What can you tell me about Hunter Frost?

: He is an exceptionally human humanoid.

: ... (So, nothing, then.)

SPOILER: Click to show

: From what I have detected of him, his power level is...

: Over nine-thousand?

: ... exceptionally high.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Organic lifeforms live. They die. Only humans concern themselves so much with the transition between those two.

: Arguably, such a thing is one of the things that make us human.

: What makes you human is the fact that you are a strange bald ape.

SPOILER: Click to show

: ...Thank you.

: Hmm?

: You included me among the profiles of people instead of evidence.

SPOILER: Click to show

: I do not recognize that being.

COURT RECORD

SPOILER: Click to show

Attorney's Badge

Obtained: One of my possessions
Type: Other

My Attorney's Badge. A symbol that I am a professional. It has been a long time since I served as defense.

Magatama

Obtained: From Hunter Frost at the Detention Center
Type: Other

This will allow me to see the truth, I suppose?

Pesterlog

Obtained: From Derpreder at the Guest House
Type: Documents

The record of a conversation between hobbledehoyFreezer (Hunter) and medicCant (Doc).

SPOILER: Click to show

Full name: Fantasy of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares. A potential witness in this case.

Vision

Full name: Vision of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares and the victim of the case.

Hunter

Full name: Hunter Frost
Age: 17

The defendant and my Writer. He, myself, and the victim were known to be pacifistic, however...

Turns

Full name: Detective Geary Turns
Age: 35

The detective in charge of the investigation. A former steampunk under Escritor.

Derpreder

Full name: Derpreder
Age: 4 months

The defendant's sentient computer.

MOVE
>> Reborn Town <<

---

Reborn Town
Monday, September 18, 2011[/size]

MOVE
Guest House
>> Scuff Security <<

---

Scuff Security
Monday, September 18, 2011
12:20 PM, NST

: (I never expected such a high tech place here...)

: Welcome to Scuff Security! Stan Scuff, at your service!

: Where did you come from!?

: I was working on something in the back, but I came out to greet you. I am an excellent host.

: (Hopefully my excellent host is an excellent interviewee...)

TALK


Scuff Security
: What does Scuff Security do?

: Exactly what it says on the tin! We sell security cameras and manage the footage here. We even allow a demo with the camera set up outside at the intersection.

A Demo?
: What would the demo do?

: Show you how reliable we are! We keep footage for a year before deleting it, and you can retrieve it at any time to keep it for yourself!

: Any time... Such as around 8:25 this morning?

: Certainly! I'll cue up the footage!



: That's when Hunter left the house... Can you zoom in?

: Certainly!



: (Not sure if this proves anything, but...) May I have a printout of this frame?

: Certainly. Feel free to help yourself to the bowl of candy while you wait.


~Security Footage Frame added to the Court Record!~

SPOILER: Click to show

: This is my Attorney's Badge. It-

: A symbol of your professionalism! You know what would be another symbol of professionalism? Security cameras from Scuff Security!

: ...

SPOILER: Click to show

: That's printed on special watermarked paper, the court won't be able to deny its authenticity!

SPOILER: Click to show

: I'm afraid I don't know about that.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Another troubled scribe in Motinspire... It wasn't entirely unexpected. I hope he is innocent, however.

SPOILER: Click to show

: It was a shame what happened to him. Hopefully Scuff Security will find the truth!

: (How much of an ADVERTISEMENT do you have to be.........)

SPOILER: Click to show

: A bit enigmatic, don't you think? He might benefit from some security cameras around...

: (That's more than a bit creepy.)

SPOILER: Click to show

: I have a feeling that Detective Turns will be paying me a visit later to collect the footage in his normal stressed manner.

SPOILER: Click to show

: A decent piece of machinery, but I assure you my computers are far better. ... And less chatty.

SPOILER: Click to show

: You want to know about me? I was a Fleeter in Escritor's army, but used my technological knowledge to set this up after the war.

EXAMINE

SPOILER: Click to show

: What is on these?

: The first is simply the name Scuff Security. The second is our demo footage. The third is our video editor.

: And the last?

: A small glitch... I tried to install a program with a scratched disc. I was working on fixing it when you came in.

COURT RECORD

SPOILER: Click to show

Attorney's Badge

Obtained: One of my possessions
Type: Other

My Attorney's Badge. A symbol that I am a professional. It has been a long time since I served as defense.

Magatama

Obtained: From Hunter Frost at the Detention Center
Type: Other

This will allow me to see the truth, I suppose?

Pesterlog

Obtained: From Derpreder at the Guest House
Type: Documents

The record of a conversation between hobbledehoyFreezer (Hunter) and medicCant (Doc).

Security Footage Frame

Obtained: From Stan Scuff at Scuff Security
Type: Photographs

A frame from security camera footage showing Hunter Frost leaving his house.

SPOILER: Click to show

Full name: Fantasy of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares. A potential witness in this case.

Vision

Full name: Vision of Nightmare
Age: Unknown

One of the four Nightmares and the victim of the case.

Hunter

Full name: Hunter Frost
Age: 17

The defendant and my Writer. He, myself, and the victim were known to be pacifistic, however...

Turns

Full name: Detective Geary Turns
Age: 35

The detective in charge of the investigation. A former steampunk under Escritor.

Derpreder

Full name: Derpreder
Age: 4 months

The defendant's sentient computer.

Scuff

Full name: Stan Scuff
Age: 25

The CEO of Scuff Security.

TALK

Library Security Footage
: Can you show me the footage from the library of the castle around 8:30 AM?

: I'm... afraid I can't. I can only supply that to the client, Vision of Nightmare, or to the police.



: What are you doing here, attorney!? You keep interfering in my investigation!

: ...I shall prepare for tomorrow's trial.

: Good luck! Frost will burn!

~To be continued~

[Deleted]

Defendant Lobby
Tuesday, September 19, 2011
7:45 AM, NST

: You have seen the recording of my investigation?

: Yes. Detective Turns seems like he'll be a real easy guy to cross-examine, huh?

: Just be careful.

: It's my freedom on the line here, I know. Let's go in.

Courtroom A
Tuesday, September 19, 2011
8:00 AM, NST

: This court is now in session for the trial of Mr. Hunter Frost.

: The defense is ready, Your Honor.

: The prosecution is... perfectly prepared.

: Am I the only one worried by how he phrased that.

: Does the prosecution have an opening statement?

: Yes. Allow me to begin with an introduction to the fool who stepped in court to face me. My name... is Pace von Brandt. I am a new prosecutor, and these bandages are due to an... emergency medical procedure before entering the profession. Now I will take down any criminal like he who nearly killed me.

: Er... very good. You may call your first witness.

: I call Detective Geary Turns to the stand.

: State your name and occupation for the court.

: Why is somebody from the Forum handling a Motinspire case? This is ridiculous-

: Name and occupation.

: ...I am Detective Geary Turns. I'm the detective in charge of homicides in town.

: Begin your testimony of the crime scene with relation to Frost's guilt. No irrelevant details.

-TESTIMONY-
The Crime Scene

: The victim was bound to the ground using shackles of ice, an element associated with the defendant.
: The murder took place in a section of the castle library specific to the Enslaver's interests, and the defendant is known to have been in the battalion that stormed the castle and overthrew him.
: Most importantly, though the defendant is not known for using a sword, the murder could not have been committed by anyone but a Writer!

: Concise, specific, and perfectly incriminating.

: The defense may begin their cross-examination.

-CROSS-EXAMINATION-

: The victim was bound to the ground using shackles of ice, an element associated with the defendant.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Are you saying that no other mage in Motinspire can use ice magic?

: It is true that this is far from decisive evidence, Detective Turns. Why, even I can use ice magic.

: There's more than that!

: The murder took place in a section of the castle library specific to the Enslaver's interests, and the defendant is known to have been in the battalion that stormed the castle and overthrew him.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Most of the kingdom is opposed to the fallen king, including Vision of Nightmare!

: Well, you could have discovered something in the castle you wanted to hide!

SPOILER: Click to show

: This proves your testimony is a lie!

: All this proves is your own desperation, and your inability to keep your cool under pressure!

: It is also proof that you need a penalty!

: (Gotta think about this...)

SPOILER: Click to show

: I do not believe he is being forward with all the information he has.

: I guess I just have to press him for more.

: Most importantly, though the defendant is not known for using a sword, the murder could not have been committed by anyone but a Writer!

Press

: What do you mean by that?


: We had this sword analyzed for magic. The blade is indestructible, infused with Writer powers!

: Isn't it more likely that it was an artifact created by Escritor?

: Don't you think we would have thought of that? It matches nothing created by Escritor, and in fact is very close to your own magical signature!

: What!?


~Writer Sword added to the Court Record!~

: This does seem to be very convincing...

: But close doesn't count in law. There is still some undeniable proof.


: This footage was taken at the moment of the crime, and shows Hunter Frost murdering Vision of Nightmare!

*The footage is played. A figure dressed exactly as Hunter usually is walks from offscreen, back to the camera, approaching Vision, hunched over at a shelf. The figure summons a sword and slashes, sending Vision to the ground where the icy shackles spring up. The figure stabs Vision with the sword, and then sends a blast of magic at the camera, presumably destroying it.*

: Strange to destroy the camera after it captures the moment of the crime... but who am I to question a fool?


~Castle Footage added to Court Record!~

: This file is merely kindling for the fire you are in, but Vision of Nightmare's autopsy is also here.


~V. Nightmare's Autopsy added to the Court Record!~

: You certainly leave no room for doubt.

: And before even calling my first eyewitness.

: A witness?

: Yes, a third person was in that library. The prosecution calls Coors Sares to the stand.

: State your name and occupation for the court.

: Coors Sares. I'm... a treasure hunter.

: Begin your testimony about the crime.

-TESTIMONY-
What I Saw

: Yeah, I was there at the fight. Castle's public property now, ain't it?
: It was dark, but it was definitely the lawyer over there. He sure was pale, though.
: You saw the footage, so you know what went down.
: Looked to me like the fight was over some book, though.

: Thank you, Mr. Sares. The defense may begin their cross-examination.

-CROSS-EXAMINATION-

: Yeah, I was there at the fight. Castle's public property now, ain't it?

SPOILER: Click to show

: What were you doing there?

: That's... that's none of your business! This is your trial, not mine!

: It was dark, but it was definitely the lawyer over there. He sure was pale, though.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Pale?

: Yeah, you were white as a ghost! Guess you were a bit scared, eh?

: (Pale...? No, that's impossible...)

: You saw the footage, so you know what went down.

SPOILER: Click to show

: So everything in the footage was correct?

: What, do you think Scuff messed with it? He's a creep but he's no criminal.

(Present anything is the same as before.)

SPOILER: Click to show

: I do not trust this man.

: If there's any criminal in here, it's him, but I don't think he's lying. At least not intentionally.

: Looked to me like the fight was over some book, though.

Press

: A book?

: You should remember, it's all you had when you walked out. You definitely didn't bring anything in, so it's not like you could have confused it with something.

: I don't suppose you have any way to argue with that?

SPOILER: Click to show

: I... guess I don't.

(Return to testimony)

{I do}
: Actually, I do have something to prove that wrong.

SPOILER: Click to show

: Ha! What now?

: ...What now indeed. As in, what does that prove, now?

: ...I guess nothing.

(Return to testimony)

Present Pesterlog


: I had my laptop with me from the time I left my house to the time I entered the restaurant, and I'm sure there are witnesses from the restaurant to prove I had it then.

: But you have no proof that you had it with you when you left the house! You could have left your house, committed the murder, retrieved your laptop, and then went to the restaurant!

: In what time?

: You're a Writer. You can teleport and stop time if you wish it. Show me proof you had your laptop before the murder!

SPOILER: Click to show

: Ha! What now?

: ...What now indeed. As in, what does that prove, now?

: ...I guess nothing.

(Return to Court Record)

Present Security Footage Frame


: This is a frame from a video taken before the murder. As you can see, I had my laptop with me!

: Clearly this case has some holes to be filled. We will resume the trial tomorrow after further investigation. Court is dismissed.

[Deleted]

((For the sake of just finishing the story aspect of this, I'm dropping most of the AA gameplay elements.))

{Detention Center}

: You did an excellent job in court, Mr. Frost.

: Thanks. The odds are still stacked against me, though...

: Hmm. I do wonder about that prosecutor...

: Well, I managed to get in contact with Uther. He said he'd look into that, so you should probably go talk to him.

: How do I get back to the Forum?

: Find the key in the guest house. It will teleport you back to the Taco.

: Anything else I should keep in mind?

: Not that I can think of. Good luck!

: *walks out of the Detention Center into the main area of the castle* (Hmm... the police seem to have completed their investigation of the crime scene. Maybe I should check it out...)

{Castle Library}

*The crime scene is closed off with yellow tape. The bookshelves seem surprisingly intact.*

: What was this stolen book, anyway...? *examines shelves* They seem to be... notebooks? *tries to reach for one, but is met by a magical barrier* I guess I'm not finding out today... *walks away and out of the castle*

{Reborn Town}

: *appears, looking tired*

: Mr. Nightmare?

: Please... Fantasy.

: My apologies... May I speak with you?

: ...You may.

: If I'm not being too forward, do you believe Mr. Frost has committed this crime?

: ...I don't know. I find it hard to trust Writers when I've seen what can happen to a man who was once not so different from Hunter. I want him to be innocent, but I can't be sure.

: What of Vision of Nightmare?

: ...He has the same Auto-Life powers as James Lupe. However, he is refusing to use them.

: Why!?

: I believe he is seeking redemption in the afterlife. He won't return until he believes he has paid for what he has done.

: Where is he now?

: Dr. Soup is looking after him for the time being. We may move him after the trial.

: I will check on him.

: Now... I have some things I need to do, good luck on your investigation. *vanishes*

{Guest House}

: User Gandhi identified.

: Hello Derpreder.

: I have taken the liberty of creating a log in for you, to store data for the investigation. I am also willing to be your obligatory quirky investigation assistant.

: Aren't those usually female?

: *goes from robotic voice to Microsoft Anna voice* Do you prefer this, Mr. Gandhi?

: ...No. Please never do that again.

: Affirmative.

: *picks up key and Derpreder* *turns key in the air, and they both vanish*

{Uther Payne's Office}

: *walks in*

: Hello Gandhi.

: Hello Mr. Payne. You seem frustrated.

: I have no idea where Pace von Brandt came from. Not one person in this office has spoken with him, he just set up his office one day.

: Didn't anyone find that suspicious?

: Everyone just figured it was the Writers. It's so reassuring to know that anyone can waltz in here and set up their office.

: Were there any clues in his office?

: We have no idea. There are layers upon layers of magical barriers around it, and we don't have clearance yet to break through. We either need Writer clearance from somebody who isn't currently suspected of murder, the detective in charge of the investigation, the judge, or permission from von Brandt himself.

: I've calculated the likelihood of the last one. There must be some error as probability does not ordinarily go into the negatives.

: What the heck is that.

: Mr. Frost's computer.

: Does Frosty have conversations with his toaster, too?

: He makes his best attempt to the contrary. He considers it annoying.

: ... I'm ignoring that. Anyway, there's something Frosty will find very interesting about these magical barriers.

: Oh?

: There are three layers of magical barriers. Darkness, ice, and Writer. Were the latter not used in the murder?

: What!?

: *hands over a folder* Here's the official report. It should help.

: Thank you.

: *goes back to looking through papers*

: I'll go check on Vision... *walks out*

{Dr. Soup's Office}

: I really need to start a business somewhere where my main patients aren't already dead...

: Hello, doctor.

: Mr. Gandhi. I'm sorry to tell you that there isn't much more I can tell you about the victim, except that he is particularly expressive for being deceased.

: What do you mean?

: Though in all other ways he is clearly dead, with no heartbeat or brain activity, his expression changes, usually to sadness or to pain...

: ...

: I have been treating him the same as I would a comatose patient. I'm sorry I cannot be of more help.

: You are far more help than other doctors would be. Thank you for your sobriety.

: ...

: ...

: I should probably just leave to prepare for the trial... *walks out*

[Deleted]

{Defendant Lobby}

: While we may have some new information, actual new evidence is scarce...

: Well, we do have Uther's report.

: *walks in*

: Speak of the devil. Did you find anything more out about that new prosecutor?

: Sadly no. I can only tell you one thing, Frosty. Be very careful facing Pace von Brandt.

: No problem! I can handle it.

: I'm serious, Frosty. You have that report, but don't use it until you can make other arguments pointing toward von Brandt. Wild accusations won't work. Now go.

{Courtroom A}

: The court will now resume for the trial of Hunter Frost. Prosecutor von Brandt, have you discovered anything new in your investigation?

: ... Perhaps the defense would like a chance to make the first move?

: Prosecutor von Brandt?

: My victory will be perfect regardless. So tell me, Frost, what will you do?

: (I can't use that report yet... But I know what I can do. Will it work?) I'd like to call a witness.

: The prosecution has no objections to whatever fool the defense wishes to call.

: Very well. Mr. Frost?

: A major point of contention yesterday was where my laptop went, and I realize now I have another witness to speak on that. The defense calls Derpreder to the stand!

: *sets Derpreder on the witness stand*

: This is a mockery of the court! I will not allow this imperfect machine to deliver testimony.

: Perhaps you need some sensitivity training with some Rinamians. However, since you had no objection to a robotic co-council, a mechanical witness shouldn't be much more of a stretch.

: The court will allow Derpreder to give his testimony.

: Grrgh... Fine. Name and occupation.

: I am Derpreder. I am a personal computer belonging to the defendant.

: Testify to the court about your actions around the time of the murder.

~TESTIMONY~

: After his conversation with James Lupe, Hunter left, carrying me, going directly to the restaurant.
:I sensed no teleportation or time distortion.
: He ate and went home.

: A clear testimony. Do either the defense or prosecution wish to cross-examine?

: No questions from the defense.

: My question is, if not Frost, then who could have committed such a crime! Answer that, witness! I assume you can't.

: I can.

: I knew... WHAT!? Witness! Testify!

~TESTIMONY~

: Mohandas Gandhi scanned the sword for its aura when it was presented in court.
: Both ice and Writer Powers were used in crafting the blade... but also darkness.
: The only character on record that matches that is... Vampire!Hunter.







: Vampire!Hunter has been destroyed! Dead men do not commit murders!

: When you've eliminated the impossible, whatever remains must be the truth! Can you completely rule that out here?

: I do eliminate it as possible! So clearly your truth does not exist! *attempts to snap fingers but can't* ... Show me your foolish truth, if you can!

: Just remember you asked for it.

: Excuse me?

: This is a report done on your office, conducted by Prosecutor Uther Payne! The barriers surrounding your office match exactly with the magic used to forge the blade!

: You had no right to conduct that search!

: Actually, it was perfectly legal. You hadn't really checked in with security when your office appeared. Your Honor! I'd like clearance to conduct a search of Prosecutor von Brandt's office, under the guidance of Uther Payne!

: ...The court grants this request.

: WHAT!?

: This case cannot continue until this investigation is done. Court dismissed. *gavel*

[Deleted]

{Prosecutor's Office, Hall}

: Mr. Frost told me after the trial to come straight here.

: We need to wait for Fantasy of Nightmare and Detective Turns to get here, anyway.

: *walks in, followed by Detective Turns* Clear the way, fools!

: I don't think so, von Brandt.

: *attempts to snap fingers and fails* ... I don't think you understand my statement. *a wall of darkness forms around himself, Uther, and Gandhi*

: *steps back*

: Did you think it would be so easy to defeat a dark Writer?

: Who are you?

: I don't use a false name fool, I am truly Pace von Brandt. What I am is something you'll have to figure out... if you survive! *fires a blast of darkness at Uther*

: Mr. Payne! *dives in front of him*

: What are you-!?

*the darkness deflects away from Gandhi*

: What!?

: *fire forms around hands* You don't scare me. Now out of the way! *shoots fireballs at von Brandt*

: *raises a wall of fire to absorb them, and pushes the wall of fire at Uther and Gandhi*

: *deflects the fire away*

: How are you doing that!?

: I am not sure, but it is useful.

: *aura spikes* Let's see how well that helps you when I write you fools out of existence!

: No!

That's enough, von Brandt.

*a bright flash of light cuts through the darkness*

: Detective Turns?

: ...

: I think you need to figure out who's on your side, Nightmare. Detective! We're leaving. *walks out with him*

: What just happened?

: Pace von Brandt isn't who he appears to be. Neither is Geary Turns, apparently. *opens office door* Let's go.

{von Brandt's Office}

*The room is nearly empty, except for the desk in the center. The room is dim, with no window and only very weak lights.*

: I wonder why he was hiding this.

: There's gotta be something in that desk, or on it. First, let's dust for fingerprints.

: *fingers turns into cotton swab and fingerprinting powder dispenser* *dusts*

: All of these prints are the same, so they're obviously from von Brandt... but they almost look like two overlapping prints.

: *opens a drawer* One of his bandages is in here...

: *looks* There's some hair on it... we could test that in the lab.

: Why? We already know whose it is...

: Remember what he said? It's not about who he is, but what he is.

: Well, in that case, even this dimly lit room may be evidence, however small.

: We'll have this all tested by tomorrow. For now, be careful. The prosecutor and lead detective are obviously in on this crime.

[Deleted]

{Defendant Lobby}

: Hey Uther. ...Where's Gandhi?

: I think it would be best if I were your co-council here. There's more going on today than before. Any objections, Frosty?

: I guess not. Shall we head in?

*the two walk into the courtroom*

{Courtroom A}

: This court will resume for the trial of Hunter Frost.

: What happened to the old judge?

: Unfortunately... his actions in yesterday's trial have been called into question.

: My colleague should have never granted the request to search Prosecutor von Brandt's office.

: As such... any evidence you found will be illegal to use in this court.

: Objection!

: Overruled.

: I was afraid of this. I did some research on the new judge. Notice that bandana? Think back a few months, Frosty, who was wearing those bandanas in Escritor's army?



: The mercenaries?

: Apparently Escritor changed people into different things based on their former traits. All the mages were mages before. All the pirates were sailors, all the steampunks and Fleeters had technical knowledge.

: And the mercs?

: They signed up willingly, whether it was simply to protect themselves... or for money. It is likely that von Brandt bribed the judge into that decision.

: So we can't win?

: I think that he's a greedy coward, but not evil. Prove the truth, any way you can.

: If the defense is done muttering, may I call my witness?

: Of course, Prosecutor von Brandt.

: Though of course the evidence was illegal to begin with and I shouldn't need to argue against it... Detective Turns has done his own investigation. I call Geary Turns to the stand!

: I know the drill. Geary Turns, detective in charge of homicides.

: Testify about why the defense's case is so... foolish.

~TESTIMONY~

: Few of the prosecutors put up the barriers in the office themselves.
: The three layer barrier therefore needn't have been created by Prosecutor von Brandt.
: Furthermore, the evidence found by the defense was useless anyway. All it would haved proved that von Brandt was, in fact, in his office, since the fingerprints were already on record.

: Thank you, Detective Turns.

: This is pretty good luck, Frosty.

: How?

: Since he just testified about the evidence, all we need to do is question him about it to get the information we want. Go after him, Frosty.

~CROSS-EXAMINATION~

: Few of the prosecutors put up the barriers in the office themselves.

: Where are you getting your information?

: Fool! Do you think those without magic are unprotected?

: He's not lying, Frosty.

: (Well, I thought it was a good place to start.)

: The three layer barrier therefore needn't have been created by Prosecutor von Brandt.

: Who created it then?

: Could have been a combination of people.

: So who was it, von Brandt?

: I am not the one on trial here, I do not need to provide that information.

: (If it wasn't him, then who?)

: Furthermore, the evidence found by the defense was useless anyway. All it would haved proved that von Brandt was, in fact, in his office, since the fingerprints were already on record.

: May we see these records?

: Of course not! They are irrelevant to the trial.

: Prosecutor von Brandt has a good point.

: (This judge is going to be tough to deal with.)

: Detective Turns clearly isn't going to crack so easily.

: Do we have a plan?

: Of course. I can be a bit more... convincing. My War Cry and Fiery Gaze can crack the cool of even the most stoic witnesses. Just let me know what you think we need him to crack on. I need to do this right though, we don't need the judge penalizing us for badgering the witness.

: Furthermore, the evidence found by the defense was useless anyway. All it would haved proved that von Brandt was, in fact, in his office, since the fingerprints were already on record.

: Objection! As a prosecutor residing in that building, I have the right to access the fingerprint records.

: As has already been stated, they are irrelevant!

: I'll humor you, though. Here are the records for all prosecutors known on the Forum, even if some are no longer practicing.

: Are we done with this silliness? If so, I'd like to request a short recess before calling my next witness.

: Request granted. The court is adjourned.

{Defendant Lobby A}

: We have a bit of time to look at this fingerprints, anyway. So now we have every prosecutor, and all of our case witnesses.

: I think we should compare this guy's fingerprints to mine, actually. VH would have the same fingerprints as me.

*they compare*

: ...Very similar, but no match.

: Odd... Maybe one of the other prosecutors?

*they check*

: I found another close match, but you're not going to like it... Manfred von Karma.

: Close doesn't count with fingerprints anyway...

: *walks up* Mr. Frost, I must return this to you. *gives magatama*

: This should help. We'll be able to see what the witness is hiding. Let's go back in.

{Courtroom A}

: This court will resume for the trial of Hunter Frost.

: I call my witness, Stan Scuff.

: Hello gentlemen.

: Please state your name and occupation for the court.

: My name is Stan Scuff. I am in charge of Scuff Security.

: Please testify about the footage from the castle.

~TESTIMONY~

: What more is there to say?
: It was a murder, a grievous one.
: Without a doubt, committed by the defendant, haa haa.

: Of course. Since we've already seen the footage, I think needless objections should get extra penalties, don't you agree, Your Honor?

: Of course. The defense may begin carefully.

: I have an idea, Frosty. Why not use your magatama to see where he's lying?

: Good idea.

~CROSS-EXAMINATION~

: Without a doubt, committed by the defendant, haa haa.

: (I wonder if he's intentionally hiding anything here...)

:

: Bingo. So now... The footage contradicts your testimony!

: Impossible!

: Very possible. Because you see... the face of the killer was never shown in the video!

: Certainly a crafty one, Frost. Would you like some candy for your hard work?

: No thanks.

: Perhaps the footage isn't clear! But your cameras do more than take simple footage, do they not? Testify on this matter!

~TESTIMONY~

: Oh yes, my cameras are equipped with much more advanced equipment than that.
: In fact, the cameras can sense magical auras.
: And the magical auras radiating from the killer? Ice and Writer magic, hee hee.

~CROSS-EXAMINATION~

: And the magical auras radiating from the killer? Ice and Writer magic, hee hee.

: (I wonder if he's intentionally hiding anything here...)

:

: You say the killer had ice and Writer magic. Was there anything else?

: Of course not! Why would-

: Ahem. There was another magical aura, yes. There was also dark magic. But the killer certainly could have had a dark artifact in his possession instead.

: Certainly plausible.

: I'm getting tired of this imperfect circus for fools. Scuff, explain your credentials! And I will only allow one question from the defense! *snaps fingers loudly*

*something is heard shattering*

: That was my magatama!

: Don't worry Frosty. I can take it from here.

~TESTIMONY~

: Scuff Security is the largest security agency in the kingdom.
: There are few buildings without cameras from us, hoo hoo.
: Why would Vision of Nightmare trust me to monitor his castle if I was not reputable?

~CROSS-EXAMINATION~

: Now, Frosty, I'm going to show you a technique I used in my investigations. Checking for habits.

: Habits?

: Do you remember any mannerisms he had in both testimonies?

: Without a doubt, committed by the defendant, haa haa.
: And the magical auras radiating from the killer? Ice and Writer magic, hee hee.

: When he was hiding something, he laughed.

: Now let's see where he does that here...

: There are few buildings without cameras from us, hoo hoo.

: Stan Scuff!

: That is my name. But with my white helmet, sometimes people call me Mr. Mint Gumball.

: You said there are cameras in almost every building, correct? Does that include inside this courtroom?

: ...Excellent work, Mr. Prosecutor, Mr. Attorney.

: This is irrelevant!

: Not at all. If we check the cameras here, and the auras match Frosty over here, then we have more evidence that he's guilty, no? Your Honor, may we check the footage of this courtroom?

: ... I will allow it.

*A screen descends. Various multicolored auras are over the gallery. The camera zooms in on Uther, and a flaming fiery aura is seen. The camera zooms in on the Judge, and an earthy green aura is behind him. It pans to Scuff, and he has a static-y green aura. Finally, it goes to Hunter, where an icy blue aura mixes with the Matrix-esque binary of a Writer aura. Finally, it shifts to von Brandt, where the same aura from Hunter is mixed with a shadowy black dark aura.*

: I think that tells us all we need to know!

: OBJECTION! *tears the bandages off of his face* Frost! You've done well! But... you still haven't proved who I am! How can you accuse me without knowing who I am.

: Actually, I think we know. Your fingerprints match two known ones... but not exactly. I wasn't sure what to do until now. But... overlapping the fingerprints that match yours might find a result.

*They check.*

: Congratulations. You slap two fingerprints together and you get mine. Feel the power of science?

: They're not any two fingerprints, either. They're mine and Manfred von Karma's. Since Vampire!Hunter would have my same fingerprints... I think that you're a combination of the two!

: ...Congratulations. I suppose I should admit it now: I killed Vision of Nightmare. It seems that it is impossible to destroy you in court. Instead...

*A blast of dark aura fills the room, blinding everyone, and when it fades, von Brandt has vanished.*

Instead we shall meet on the field of battle.

: I guess we will.

: ... Given the prosecutor's confession and... disappearance, I suppose there's only one thing to do. I declare the defendant, Hunter Frost...

NOT GUILTY

{Defendant Lobby}

: ...Excellent work, Hunter.

: What will happen to the judge, and Turns?

: *walks in* I am leading an investigation on them.

: Your Honor! I'm sorry for what happened...

: There is no need to apologize for others' corruption in the courts, Mr. Frost.

: Sounds like those guys will need a defense attorney soon, eh Frosty? What do you say to that?

: I say...