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Post by PFA on May 29, 2013 1:06:56 GMT -5
Case 3: Turnabout Ties WARNING: This case contains spoilers for the following: -Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney (specifically case 4) - A Day of Darkness- Turnabout Kin
"...So it's finally come to this."
"Things could have been different, you know. You could have given her up."
"I can't. I love her."
"Is she more important than us, Bourne?!"
"I can't live that way! Not anymore. I had to get out!"
"That's what you want, then?" *click* "The two of you, together forever?"
"...You don't have to do this."
"You give me no other choice."
"...I'm sorry. I didn't want to hurt you."
"It's too late for that, Bourne. Goodbye."
*BANG*
...~*~*~ {August 28th, 1:35PM Taco City Detention Center}  ...Is that all you have to say, pal?  ... Yes. 'Cause if that's all you have for an alibi, well... I'm afraid you'll have to do a lot better than that. Things aren't looking good for you.  I know, but... you have to believe me. Sorry, pal. I'm a detective, and I have to believe the evidence.  ... I... I'm going to need a lawyer, right?  Yeah. Got someone in mind? ...Yes. I... I want Mr. Edgeworth.  Uhh... Prosecutor Edgeworth is a prosecutor. He can't— Not Prosecutor Edgeworth. I want his father... Gregory Edgeworth.  WHAAAAT?! You can't be serious, pal! I-I know it sounds like a strange request, but—  Look, pal, Mr. Edgeworth is retired! He doesn't even take cases anymore, and when he does, it's only super important ones! You can't just expect him to— I-I know! I know, it's just... this is really important to me. Can you... please just ask him? That's all I ask... ...Alright, fine, I'll see what I can do. But don't expect any miracles! ...  *sighs and steps out of the room, pulling out his phone and dialing a number* ... *ring... ring... click* "Hello?" Hey sir. Can I ask you kinda a weird question? "...I suppose. What is it?" Uh, well... there's this gal down here at the detention center who really wants to talk to your dad. "... ... Excuse me?" I dunno, sir, but she said it was real important for some reason. "...I... suppose I could ask him..." Sorry about this, sir. I know this is kind of weird... "Perhaps, but... hold on a second." Alright. *waits* ... ~*~*~ *Time passes, but eventually...*  *walks into the room* ...Hello? ...Hello, sir. I'm sorry to disturb you... I must admit I'm rather confused. *walks closer to the window* Do I know you? No, probably not, but... I really need your help.  If you need a lawyer, there are plenty of good lawyers around here. Phoenix Wright, for one. I-I know, and I'm sure this seems strange, but... ...I need an Angel. ...I'm afraid I don't understand. I'm sorry, I'm sure that sounds very strange... but this is really very important. I don't want to bother Mia Fey or her husband at a time like this, and I'm not sure who else I can turn to. You're the only one who can help... please? ...  *sighs, sitting down* I still don't understand, but...  Let's hear what you have to say.  Th-thank you... it really means a lot to me.  So... what have they told you about the case? Almost nothing, to be honest. Just that you're their current suspect. I see... well, I should tell you right off that I've been accused of murder.  (Of course.) Who's the victim? ... My husband.  Bourne Freeman. ...I see... The police said that we had an argument in front of our house, one that became so heated that I killed him in anger. But I would never do that. I love my husband with all my heart... Where were you at the time of the murder, then? I was out shopping. I was buying some bulbs to plant in my garden... Can you tell me the name of the store you were at? It's a small shop near the edge of town... Daisy's Daisies, I think it's called. (...Not one of the more creative names I've ever heard.) Alright... So if you aren't the one who killed your husband, do you have any idea who it was that did? ...I'm not sure, but... "But"? ...There's one thing you should keep in mind if you do take my case. There are those who will do everything in their power to conceal what really happened. So if you can't find the answer... ...Let the Light shine through to the truth. ...What? Please just remember that... I promise it will be important. ...It would be nice if you could tell me why this is all so important. I-I'm sorry... this probably seems so strange. It's just... if I say the wrong things... *trails off* ...I'm sorry about all this. I just... I don't know what else I can do. I feel so trapped and alone... a-and I need help...  ... ... *stands up slowly, with a sigh* ...Alright. You've convinced me. I'll take the case.  ! Y-you will? You really will? You seem sure enough about this. If it's really me that you need, it's my duty to see it through. Th-thank you so much...! This means so much to me! It's the least I can do to help, Mrs... ...You know, I don't think I caught your name. Oh! Um, Maria. Maria Freeman. Then I'll do everything I can, Mrs. Freeman. I guess I'd better get to investigating, then... except that I don't even know where the scene of the crime is.  Oh, it's, um, at my house... I'm sure the police can tell you where it is. That's probably for the best... I don't know if you telling me an address would help. Well, I guess I'd better be on my way, then. Hang in there, alright? Alright... thanks again.  You're welcome. (I'd better go see if I can find Detective Gumshoe...) *heads out of the room* ~*~*~ *waiting in the hallway, looks up when he hears the door* Oh! Sir! How did it go? It was... strange. But I've decided I'm going to take the case. WHAAAAT?! You are?!  Yes. Something about all this... it just doesn't seem right. I want to try and set things straight.  That...  That's awesome, sir! I get to work on a case with the famous Gregory Edgeworth! (Didn't you help me with Miles' case last year, or does that not count? ...And aren't you working against me?) Wow! Wait 'til Prosecutor Edgeworth hears about this! Um, yes, well... I was just wondering. If it's alright, could you show me where the scene of the crime is?  Oh, yeah, sir! You bet! Right this way~ *leads on* ... *follows* To be continued... (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. Timid and mysterious, she really wanted me to take her case. I'm not sure I understand why. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. I don't know much about him yet.  Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. |
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Post by PFA on Jun 5, 2013 1:32:11 GMT -5
{August 28th, 2:03PM Freeman Residence Front Yard} *As they approach the house, they find that the police are there, hard at work investigating the area* Oh... it looks like the police investigation is still going on. Oh, don't worry about that, sir! You can look around if you want, just as long as you don't touch anything. Um... but I'm the defense? *some police officers glance at him at this comment* "Whoa, Mr. Edgeworth?" "Gregory Edgeworth is on this case?" Yeah, well, normally I'm not supposed to let people poke around at the crime scene while we're still investigating... ...but you're the famous Gregory Edgeworth, so I'll make an exception this time! (...I'm not sure I should approve of this.) (Well, I guess it can't hurt to take a quick look around.) <Examine blood> I'm guessing this is where the victim's body was? That's right, sir. How did he die, by the way? I never heard. Oh, well, he and his wife were arguing on the front lawn here, see. Apparently she was real mad because she thought he was having an affair with some other gal. (An argument... just like Mrs. Freeman told me.) Anyway, like I said, she was real mad! And I mean real mad! So mad that she pulled out a— *pauses in realization* ...uhh... Is something wrong?  It's just, umm... this might be a little awkward... ... If it's what I think it is, you don't need to spare my feelings. She, uhh... she pulled out a gun and shot him in the heart. *sigh* Figures... (The same way I died.) I'm so sorry, sir! Don't be. It doesn't bother me as much as you think it does. Still... (Frankly, what bothers me more is how much that case still bothers other people...) A-anyway, here's the autopsy report, if you want to look. Hm? Oh, thank you.  ~Bourne's Autopsy Report added to the Court Record!~ So this is the victim's and defendant's house? Yep. According to the records, they've been living here for about a month. Only a month? Were they newlyweds or something? I dunno, actually. Truth is, it's been surprisingly difficult tracking down the records for these people. The records of them buying this house are some of the few we've found so far. That's... strange. Yeah. But I can tell you without a doubt that they bought this house on August 1st! That's, uh, nice to know. (It seems really strange that they've been living here that long without having any records...)<Examine neighbor's house> (The neighbor's house has a very prominent window in the front... I wonder if they witnessed the murder?) I bet you're wondering about the witness, aren't you, sir? I... witness? (Did he read my mind? Did I accidentally project that thought?) Yep! The victim's and defendant's neighbor saw the whole thing from her living room window. That's, um... are you sure you should be telling me this? Probably not, but what the hey! It's not like you wouldn't find out anyway. Oh, you don't get to talk to her, though, else I'd get in real trouble. (...Does Detective Gumshoe always put his career on the line for the defense like this, or is it just me?)<Examine flowers> (A bed of beautiful flowers rests in front of the Freeman house. I guess Mrs. Freeman is really into gardening.) (I have to say, they do look quite nice.) <Examine officers> (The police are hard at work, looking for evidence. I feel a little strange standing here, but they don't seem to mind...)*some officers are looking at Gregory, whispering to each other* "Wow, it really is him!" "I thought he was retired?" "Incredible..." ... (Actually, it would seem they're all well beyond "don't mind"...) --- ...There really isn't much to look at here, is there? Yeah, I guess we've pretty much cleared out all the evidence... I think the lab guys are having it all tested right now. ...Which means I won't get to see it until the trial, I'm guessing. Uhh... yeah, probably. Well, that's alright. I think I've learned just about everything I can here for now. Best of luck with your investigation. You bet! And best of luck in court! ... Uhh. Y'know, if we don't win, that is. ...Er. Thank you. (I was beginning to think he had forgotten he was working for the prosecution.) Anyway, I'd better be on my way. I guess I'll be seeing you later. *starts walking off* Bye! *waves* *some of the officers converse amongst themselves as he leaves* "I wonder why he took this case?" "Yeah, it's not like that case last year with his son..." *doesn't seem to notice* (I wonder where that flower shop Mrs. Freeman mentioned is... I think it's the only lead I've got at the moment. Maybe I can find a map?)"Hey! Mr. Edgeworth!" Hm? *looks up in the direction of the voice*  *runs up* Mr. Edgeworth! I wanted to talk to you... ...Ms. Fey? What is it? I'm actually on a case...  A-ha! So I heard right! You really did take the case! (...Wow. News really spreads fast around here.) Wait... you know about this case? ...Sort of. That's actually what I wanted to talk to you about... "Sort of"?  The victim... his name was Bourne Freeman, right? Yes, that's right. Did you know him? No, but some police officers were asking me about him, asking me to contact his spirit and ask him about a revival. They've been asking me about that a lot lately... (I guess that makes sense, seeing as she's a spirit medium...) What about it? Did he tell you something about the case, or...? That's the thing... I haven't been able to contact his spirit at all.  ... *frowns* You haven't...?  Yeah. And that's really scary. (No kidding. A spirit medium being unable to contact a spirit... there's only so many things that could mean.) ...But that's not the worst of it. What's even scarier... this is the second time in the past couple weeks that's happened.  ...! Y-you're serious? Yeah... that's completely unheard of. It makes me think that something really weird is going on. And I want to know what it is, because if this keeps up... I agree. Two unresponsive spirits in such a short time span... that can't be a coincidence. So that's why I was thinking... would it be okay if I came with you for this case? You mean... as my assistant? Yeah. And together, we could figure out what's really going on here... if that's okay. *thinks on this for a moment* ...Well, I don't particularly see any reason to refuse. ! You mean...? You can accompany me if you want, yes.  *grins wide* Wow! Thank you so much!  *skips in circles around Gregory* Hee hee, I get to work with the famous Gregory Edgeworth! Nick will be sooo jealous! Um... you're welcome? (Talk about your sudden moodswings...) I bet we're gonna be a great team, Mr. Edgeworth! You and me together, solving mysteries and fighting crime! Er, well, if we're going to work together, we should probably be on our way... Oh yeah, you bet! Where are we headed to? Well, there's this flower shop the defendant said she went to, and I wanted to go there to see if I could confirm her alibi. I think she said it was called "Daisy's Daisies"? Oh! I know that place! I think Iris goes there sometimes. Oh, really? Do you know where it is? I think so! Follow me. *leads the way* *follows* ~*~*~ {August 28th, 2:38PM Daisy's Daisies} *Soon, Gregory and Maya arrive at a cozy little building with a cutely decorated sign up front, which appropriately reads "Daisy's Daisies." Maya gestures to it triumphantly* Well, here we are! Ah, excellent. Thank you, Ms. Fey, I don't think I would have found this place on my own.  Happy to help! By the way, you don't have to call me Ms. Fey—there's, like, four Feys here, you know! You can call me Maya. Oh. Then, um, thank you... Maya. Hee hee~ Shall we go in, then? Yes, let's. *pushes the door open, gesturing for Maya to go in first* *cheerfully walks in* Hello?  Hello! Welcome to Daisy's Daisies. Can I help you? *comes in after Maya, closing the door behind him* Yes, actually. We're here investigating a—  OH! Oh my goodness! You're Gregory Edgeworth, aren't you? ...Er, yes, I am.  I've heard so much about you! It's an honor having you in my humble little shop, sir! Hee hee! You're really famous, Mr. Edgeworth! I... suppose I am. (I feel like a celebrity or something...) *ahem* Anyway, as I was saying, we're here investigating a murder.  ...A murder? I haven't heard anything about a murder, and there certainly hasn't been one here... No, but we were specifically wondering about a specific customer of yours. Have you seen this woman recently? Hm...? Oh, that's Maria! Yes, she was here just earlier today, actually.  Why, did she...? She's been accused of murder, yes... we're here to prove her innocence. *puts the photo away* If she was really here, then that corroborates her alibi. ...Oh! That's good. Maria seems like a nice lady; I can't imagine her murdering someone.  So you must know her pretty well, then, huh? Sort of. She's come here a few times, and I like to talk to my customers. She always seems like such a sweet person. Out of curiosity, what do you know about her husband, Bourne? Her husband...? I've never met him. But Maria always speaks highly of him, so he must be a good man. ... I see... so do you have any security cameras? Something to prove that Mrs. Freeman was here earlier today? I don't have security cameras, no. I'd like to get some, but I don't get enough business to cover the cost of running them... Oh! She did buy some bulbs, though, so I should have a receipt! Hold on. *starts looking through some receipts* Ooh! Receipts usually have dates and times on them, don't they? Usually, yes. With any luck, this receipt will prove that Mrs. Freeman was here at the time of the murder, and not at her house. When even was the time of the murder? I haven't heard much about this case, come to think of it. Well, Detective Gumshoe gave me a copy of the autopsy report, so let's see... *pulls it out and takes a look* ...About noon, apparently. Today, I'm assuming. Today's the 28th? Yes, it's the 28th. And... here's the receipt! *hands it over* Oh, thank you. Let's see... time of purchase... 11:30AM. ...Um. That's... enough time for her to get back home from here. *sigh* So much for that.  Oh no... um, well, she stayed here and talked with me for a while after her purchase. Does that help? Unfortunately not, unless you have some way of proving she was here long enough that she couldn't have gotten home by noon. I don't... I'm sorry, I wish I could be of more help. It's alright. Maybe it will still prove useful...  ~Receipt added to the Court Record!~ ...Unfortunately, I'm not really sure what else we can do at this point. Well, what evidence do you already have? Not much, I'm afraid. The evidence seems to be really scarce for this one... Oh, poor Maria... I really wish I could be more helpful. I don't believe she did this. Hey, don't worry! Gregory Edgeworth is on the case! The famous defense attorney! Plus, he's got me to help him! My Sis is an attorney, and I've worked with Phoenix Wright, the other famous defense attorney. With all that experience, we're sure to win! *sighs, adjusting glasses* Yes, well... at this rate, I just hope we'll be able to find something in the prosecution's evidence tomorrow. ...Speaking of which, I wonder who they've assigned to this case? You mean the prosecutor? Hm... well, I know Detective Gumshoe is the detective... Ooh, what if it was Prosecutor Edgeworth? Wouldn't that be so cool? Two Edgeworths, working together to find the truth! That would be... interesting, definitely. (Actually, I've never seen Miles in court, so I'm honestly not sure what that would be like...) ...Well, whoever it is, I guess we'll find out soon enough. Yeah, I guess. So what now? Well, I guess I'll take another look through the evidence... see if anything stands out. Ooh, good idea! I'll look, too—maybe I'll notice something you don't. Well, it can't hurt, at least. (I should write down everything I know so far; it might help...) Good luck, you two. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help, okay? We will. Thank you, miss. (Let's see, now...) *goes to find somewhere to sit* ~*~*~ {Meanwhile, at the Prosecutors' Office...}  What?!  I... I'm sorry? I honestly had no idea this would happen. That... that's ridiculous! That's absurd! Gregory Edgeworth doesn't take cases! He's—  Yes, I know, and I'm just as surprised as you are. I have no idea how it happened.  This— he— rngh! It doesn't matter who the defense is! I am still handling this case! Franziska von Karma never backs down!  I, ah... Franziska, whatever you do— Don't think you can change my mind, Miles Edgeworth! I wouldn't dream of it. I only ask, whatever you do, please, er... keep your temper in check? What is that supposed to mean?! I realize that you're, ah, not particularly fond of my father, but I beg of you not to do anything you might come to regret. ... ... Hmph! *whirls around wordlessly and stomps off*  *heavy sigh* (I fear this will not end well.)To be continued... (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. Timid and mysterious, she really wanted me to take her case. I'm not sure I understand why. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Not much is known about him; apparently has very few records. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations.  Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case.  Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. |
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Post by PFA on Jun 12, 2013 1:05:26 GMT -5
{August 29th, 9:56AM District Courthouse Defendant's Lobby} Well... it's just about time. It's a bit strange going back into the courtroom after so long... ...I'm sorry about this, sir. Sorry? You have nothing to apologize for! I just... I worry this is all such an inconvenience for you. Hey, don't worry about it. I'm happy to help however I can. ... Have you heard who the prosecutor is yet? No, why? Who is it? ...I'm sorry about this, but... it's Prosecutor von Karma.  WHAT?! ...You're kidding, right? You've got to be kidding.  Oh! N-no, sorry, I should clarify... I meant Franziska. Oh... phew! That would have been really bad if it was Mr. von Karma. Yeah... (Though to be honest, I'm not sure this makes me feel much better.)"The trial for Maria Freeman is about to start. All participants, please move to courtroom number seven." *sigh* Well, I guess we'd better get going, then. Come on. *heads to the courtroom* *follow* ~*~*~ {August 29th, 10:00AM District Courthouse Courtroom No.7} *pushes open the courtroom doors and peers in*  *already at the prosecutor's bench* ... ... (Alright, Gregory... let's get this over with.) *walks over to the defense's bench* *follows confidently* Hey, don't be nervous. We can do this! I sure hope so. *bangs gavel before Maya can respond* Court is now in session for the trial of Maria Freeman. *ahem* The defense is ready, Your Honor. The prosecution is ready. As always. ... ...Very well, then. Ms. von Karma, your opening statement, please? This case is very simple, Your Honor. Mrs. Maria Freeman found out that her husband, Bourne Freeman, had been unfaithful to her, and was quite upset with him. In her anger, she took her husband's pistol and confronted him on the matter. (It sounds like the murder weapon was the victim's own gun...) The two of them argued on their front lawn, where their neighbor could witness the commotion from her own living room. It was at the heat of their argument when Mrs. Freeman pulled out the weapon and shot her husband in the heart, instantly killing him. Seeing this heinous act, their neighbor called the police, and Mrs. Freeman was arrested on the spot.  The evidence in this case is so strong, not even the famous Gregory Edgeworth can argue against it. (...I can't say I'm fond of that smug look on her face...) Hm... what do you say to this, Mr. Edgeworth? ...I believe that Mrs. Freeman couldn't have murdered her husband. That she was not at her home, and that someone has done this in an attempt to frame her. (That's not a very good opening statement, but I guess it will have to do...) Hm... interesting. Well, Ms. von Karma? Shall we proceed? Of course we shall. The prosecution's first witness is the detective placed in charge of this case, Detective Dick Gumshoe. *Gumshoe shuffles up to the stand* *once he's taken his place* Name and occupation. Detective Dick Gumshoe, sir. I'm a detective from Los Angeles. Now. Testify as to the circumstances surrounding the arrest. Yeah, sir... -TESTIMONY-
What happened We arrived on the scene at about 12:30PM. Like Ms. von Karma said, the victim, Bourne Freeman, had been shot in the heart with his own pistol. We found the gun lying next to him. According to the witness, Mrs. Freeman dropped it there and walked away. Sure enough, it had her fingerprints on it... as well as Bourne's. A few minutes later, Mrs. Freeman herself showed up on the scene. We arrested her on the spot. --- Thank you for the very concise testimony, Scruffy. (No kidding, "concise." I think I'll need to ask him for more details... if Ms. von Karma will let me.) On the topic of the victim's gun, I'm assuming you've brought it with you? Of course I have. It would be foolish not to bring such critical evidence to a trial.  ~Pistol added to the Court Record!~ *The bailiff passes the pistol around the courtroom, so everyone can get a better look at it* *when the bailiff approaches him, holds out a hand* Can I see that? *The bailiff hesitates for a moment, but hands him the gun in an evidence bag* *weighs it in his hands for a moment* ... ...Is this gun enchanted? Um... not that I know of? The scans showed a bit of a magical residue, but the magic experts said it wasn't enough to be an enchantment. ...Why do you ask? I don't know. Something about this gun feels... strange, somehow. Are you sure it's not just because the bailiff just handed you a pistol? *dead silence* ... *ahem* No, I'm fairly certain it's not that.  *crosses arms* No one else in the courtroom has noticed anything strange about the pistol. Surely whatever it is you are sensing is unique to you and you alone. *sighs and hands the gun back to the bailiff* Why don't we just get on with the trial? (It's probably nothing, anyway...) I couldn't agree more. Mr. Edgeworth, did you wish to cross-examine Detective Gumshoe? Yes, Your Honor. Alright. You may proceed, then. (Alright. Let's see what I can do...)-CROSS-EXAMINAION-
What happened We arrived on the scene at about 12:30PM. Like Ms. von Karma said, the victim, Bourne Freeman, had been shot in the heart with his own pistol. <Press> So the gun belonged to the victim? Yeah, sir. According to the records, he got it registered about a year ago. Apparently he had it before then, but he wanted to make it legal. The records? Didn't you tell me yesterday that you were having trouble finding records on the victim? Well, yeah, but that's one of the ones we did find. Oh... that makes sense.  Hold on. What's this about a lack of records? The victim's records, for some reason we have yet to determine, are very scarce. There are a number of possible reasons why, but I don't see how this information is relevant to the case.  Hm... I suppose you're right. All that really matters here is that it was the victim's gun, so his wife would have easy access to it. (Yes, that's important to note...)--- We found the gun lying next to him. According to the witness, Mrs. Freeman dropped it there and walked away. Sure enough, it had her fingerprints on it... as well as Bourne's. It didn't have anyone else's fingerprints? Nope... sorry, sir. Is it possible it was a suicide? No. If the victim had shot himself, there would have been gunpowder burns on his clothes. There were none. ...It still could have been a spirit. This has also been taken into consideration, and we tested thoroughly for any signs of a spirit having handled the weapon. We found nothing. No spirit fingerprints, and no auras on the weapon other than the victim's and the defendant's. *curtsies* Not even you can dispute such solid evidence, Gregory Edgeworth. (Ugh. Her prosecuting style is eerily familiar...) Hm... that is pretty convincing evidence... do you have anything to counter that, Mr. Edgeworth? (There has to be another way... I wonder...) ...Not yet. But I'm sure another explanation will come to light by the trial's end. Ha... your loss. Please continue, Scruffy. --- A few minutes later, Mrs. Freeman herself showed up on the scene. We arrested her on the spot. Mrs. Freeman showed up after the murder? Yeah, sir! And she acted all surprised, but the evidence was stacked against her! It is clear what she was doing. She was trying to throw us off her trail by returning to the scene of the crime, and acting like she was unaware of her husband's brutal murder. However, she failed miserably. (She shoots him on the front lawn and drops the gun next to him in an attempt to "throw us off her trail"?) ...Hm, detective. Tell me, did Mrs. Freeman have anything with her when you arrested her? Well, she had her purse, and also this bag of gardening stuff from that little gardening store. (Well, that definitely proves that she was at the gardening shop... too bad it doesn't prove she has an alibi.) ~Bulbs added to the Court Record!~ --- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Maybe it's just me, but there's something strange about it... Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. Timid and mysterious, she really wanted me to take her case. I'm not sure I understand why. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Not much is known about him; apparently has very few records. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations.  Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. ---  Well, what are you waiting for? Hit 'em with some evidence! I'd like to, but I don't think I have anything worth presenting at this point... *seems to notice this, looking pleased* Well, well, well. Have you given up yet, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth? ...No. I just don't think I have anything left to say to the detective. Well then, perhaps you have something you wish to say to the witness? That's what I was thinking, Your Honor. Very well, then. I grow tired of looking at this detective's face, anyway. Scruffy, you may leave. *slinks away from the stand* (Poor detective...) Now then. As I have mentioned earlier, Mr. and Mrs. Freeman's neighbor witnessed this terrible crime from her living room window, and immediately contacted the police about it. At this time, the prosecution would like to summon this woman to the stand... To be continued... |
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Post by PFA on Jun 19, 2013 0:58:12 GMT -5
*Before long, an elderly lady takes the stand, nervously fanning herself with a small hand fan*  ... Please state your name and occupation for the record of the court.  My name is Susan Duval. I am but a lonely widow, currently living off my late husband's retirement. Mrs. Duval, would you kindly testify as to what you saw of the murder at your neighbors' house?  Oh, it was so terrible! -TESTIMONY-
What I saw I was in my home, knitting, when I heard such a dreadful commotion from the house next door! Curious as to what the matter was, I took a look out my window to see what was going on. And I saw the most terrible thing! Mrs. Freeman had a gun, and she fired it at her husband! The poor man fell to the ground, oh, and there was blood everywhere! Then Mrs. Freeman dropped the gun next to her husband's body and walked back into her house. Oh, it was just so terrible! I immediately called the police! --- Hm... murder is a terrible thing to witness, indeed. Ohhh! (This poor woman looks like she's about to faint.) Well, Mr. Edgeworth? Your cross-examination, please. Yes, Your Honor. (There's something strange about this testimony... I should ask her for more details.)-CROSS-EXAMINATION-
What I saw I was in my home, knitting, when I heard such a dreadful commotion from the house next door! Curious as to what the matter was, I took a look out my window to see what was going on. What do you mean when you say a "dreadful commotion"? Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, oh, they were arguing! It was simply terrible! Could you tell what they were arguing about? It sounded to me like they were arguing over another woman. Oh, how terrible! What exactly did they say? Oh, I don't remember all the details... but I do remember her asking him if "she" was more important than "us." (Is "she" more important than "us"... well, that's definitely some sort of argument over a woman.) Is there any proof that he's been seeing someone else? I don't see how it matters. As long as Mrs. Freeman believed her husband was having an affair with someone else, she has a motive. Whether or not he actually was is irrelevant. (...I'm guessing that's a fancy way of saying "no, there isn't.")--- And I saw the most terrible thing! Mrs. Freeman had a gun, and she fired it at her husband! Did she have it with her the whole time? I don't know... by the time I got to the window, she already had it in her hand. Oh, how terrible! *crosses arms* A foolish question I would not expect from a legend such as yourself, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth. Of course she had the gun the whole time. How else would she have it? She can't just summon it out of thin air. ... (Don't say anything, Gregory... don't comment...) Even if she could, no magic readings indicating as such were found on the weapon. So yes, she had it with her the whole time. ...Well, it was the victim's gun. Is it possible he brought it with him, and she took it from him?  ...Perhaps, but it is unlikely, as there were no signs of a struggle. And even if so, it changes little. ...Okay, perhaps. I guess my real question is, did she have anything with her other than the gun?  Um... no, not that I saw. ...Oh really? That's interesting. Do you think you could add that to your testimony? Oh, um... I suppose so. ~A new piece of testimony is added~ --- As far as I could see, all she had with her was the gun. I can't imagine how angry she must have been to bring a gun to an argument with her husband! <Press> You're absolutely certain she didn't have anything else with her? Maybe her purse?  Her purse? I didn't see her purse. Of course, I'm afraid my eyesight isn't what it used to be... But you did see the gun. Oh yes! I was so frightened when I saw her aiming at her husband! Mr. Gregory Edgeworth, if you have a point to this line of questioning, don't continue wasting the court's time. (Patience, Ms. von Karma. I have a point, and I can prove it... with evidence.)--- The poor man fell to the ground, oh, and there was blood everywhere! Then Mrs. Freeman dropped the gun next to her husband's body and walked back into her house. <Press> She dropped it next to him? How far apart were they? W-well, when she shot him, they must have been maybe two meters apart. (Two meters... that would be about six and a half feet.) If they were that far apart, how did she drop it next to him? Oh! Well, she approached him after he fell, looking down at him for a moment. That was when she dropped the gun and went back into her house. Oh, how terrible! When she dropped it, would you say she looked... shocked? Oh heavens! No! She was still angry! Oh so angry! Oh, it was terrible! That seems pretty strange for a woman who just shot her husband. You must remember that she brought her husband's gun with her to the argument, implying she intended to kill him from the very start. And what would be so shocking about something going exactly as planned? ...I guess you have a point. *curtsies* Of course I do. My cases are always perfectly executed. (For claiming so strongly to hate her father, the resemblance in court is uncanny...)--- Oh, it was just so terrible! I immediately called the police! <Press> How immediately is "immediately"? Oh, once Mrs. Freeman went back into her house, I turned and ran for my kitchen phone! I dialed 911 right then! (I guess that's pretty immediate.) And she didn't see you doing this? I don't know. I don't think so. She was so focused on what she was doing.  Murdering her husband! Ohhh! It was a very brave thing you did, Mrs. Duval. We appreciate that you told us about this gruesome murder, so we can put the killer to justice. (Yes, and I'm here to make sure we pick the right one.)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Maybe it's just me, but there's something strange about it... Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. Timid and mysterious, she really wanted me to take her case. I'm not sure I understand why. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Not much is known about him; apparently has very few records. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder.  Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. --- <Present Evidence> As far as I could see, all she had with her was the gun.  I find this very strange, Mrs. Duval!  Eek! What is the matter?! *hands her a shopping bag* Tell me. Is this familiar to you? Oh! These are flower bulbs, aren't they? Yes, they are. But what's more important is the bag they came in. Was Mrs. Freeman carrying this bag with her when she shot her husband? Oh, heavens! No! She wasn't carrying anything other than that gun! And this is what I find strange. After all, as we learned earlier... --- ...Hm, detective. Tell me, did Mrs. Freeman have anything with her when you arrested her? Well, she had her purse, and also this bag of gardening stuff from that little gardening store. --- ...She had this bag with her when she was arrested. Now, I can also prove that she purchased these bulbs just half an hour prior to the murder. As you can see from this receipt. So tell me, then... why would she have these bulbs before the murder, and after the murder, but not during the murder? It makes no sense.  ...Unless the killer was actually someone else!  I... I... Ohhhh! *surprised mutterings from the gallery* Th-that's impossible! I'm certain it was her! Are you absolutely certain about that? Did you see her face? Yes! And I was so sure it was her, but... Ohhh! *meanwhile, looks unimpressed* ...Is that all you've got, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth? ...? That is a very interesting observation. Yes, that receipt proves she bought those bulbs thirty minutes before murdering her husband. However, it only takes fifteen minutes to travel between the Freeman residence and that gardening store by foot. Well, yes, but— And yes, it is clear that she had the bulbs from that store at the time of her arrest. Which, I'll note, was around fifteen minutes after the murder, due to travel time between the Freeman residence and the police precinct. That gives her plenty of time to move these items around. ... That only leaves why. What reason would cause her to drop her items, only to return with them later after she had committed the murder? The same woman who told us that she was out shopping at the time of the murder, despite the obvious time discrepancies? The answer is very simple. She was trying futilely to validate her alibi. Oh... th-that must be it, yes... Hm... that does make a lot of sense. Do you have anything to say to this, Mr. Edgeworth? ...Ngh. *curtsies* As I said earlier, my case is perfectly solid. Not even the famous attorney Gregory Edgeworth can argue against it.  (Argh! She's right; I don't have anything against her at all!) *glances at Maria* (But I can't just let it end here...) ... Come on, Mr. Edgeworth! You have to do something! I... I'm not sure what I can do. Are you giving up already, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth? What a surprise this is. I honestly thought you would put up more of a fight. (Wipe that cocky smirk off your face, Franziska.) (There must be something...)--- "...There's one thing you should keep in mind... if you can't find the answer, let the Light shine through to the truth."--- (...Could it be... this is what she was trying to tell me?) ... Well, as much as it pains me to say this, it would appear that Mr. Edgeworth does not have a suitable argument against the prosecution's very strong case. Well, well. It looks like this is another victory for Franziska von Karma. Thank you for your cooperation, Mrs. Duval. Your testimony has been very helpful. ... If there is no further evidence, I see no reason to prolong this trial any longer. This court finds the defendant, Maria Freeman— "HOLD IT!"  ...! What?! Before you declare a verdict, Your Honor, I have one last request! Oh? What is it, Mr. Edgeworth? I'd... like to take another look at a piece of evidence. Certainly. Which piece of evidence would you like to examine? (Well, it's now or never...)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Maybe it's just me, but there's something strange about it... Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. Timid and mysterious, she really wanted me to take her case. I'm not sure I understand why. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Not much is known about him; apparently has very few records. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. --- ... Can I have another look at the murder weapon? The murder weapon? What is that supposed to prove? I'm not sure yet, but... I'd like to look at it again. ... If you're sure about this. Bailiff? *The bailiff hands Gregory the pistol, the room falling silent in anticipation* *examines it thoughtfully* (...There is definitely something strange about this gun. I'm not sure why I'm the only one who notices, but maybe...) *sets it down on the desk* (There is something unique to me in this courtroom...)*His hand starts to glow with angelic Light, and he slowly lowers it to the weapon...* ...What are you— *CH-JHHHKKKKKKKKT!*  EEEEEK! What is that dreadful noise?!  What did you do?! *pulls his hand back, causing the frightening sound and display to fade* I... I don't know! Are you okay, Mr. Edgeworth?! That gun had a really scary aura all of the sudden! I-I'm fine, but— Th-that's impossible! The murder weapon didn't have an aura! Scruffy! Scan it again! Y-yes, sir! *hastily grabs a magic scanner and rushes over* 'Scuse me, sir. *moves out of the way to let him scan* ... ...Th-there's no noticeable aura, sir! Then what was that just now?! H-hey, I dunno, sir! It's gone now! Maybe... *carefully lowers his Lighted hand to the gun again* *CH-JHHHKKKKKKKT!* !!! N-no way! It just spiked like crazy! What?!  *covers ears, shaking head* Make it stop! Make it stoooop! *pulls hand away again* It... seems to be reacting to the Light. What is the meaning of this?! Auras can't just appear and disappear like that! Explain what's going on! I honestly have no idea! Then how did you—?!  *bangs gavel furiously in an attempt to quiet the chaos* Order! Order in the court! Ohhhh! *faints* It has become clear to me that there is more to this case than meets the eye! This court is adjourned until we can discover the cause of this! *bangs gavel* To be continued... |
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Post by PFA on Aug 14, 2013 1:00:04 GMT -5
{August 29th, 12:39PM Taco City Detention Center} *walks in with Maya* Mrs. Freeman...? Hello, Mr. Edgeworth. ...I'm sure you have a lot of questions. To be honest, it's really just one. *sits down* You seem to know something about this. What was that strange aura? And why did it feel so... tainted? *heavy sigh* ...Bourne told me some things about it. As I mentioned before, there are evil people who work very hard to deceive. To imitate. As part of this, they've somehow developed a... modified magic. ...Modified magic? Yes... I'm not sure how they do it, but somehow they twist their own auras into an unnatural state... allowing them to mold it into nearly anything they want. They use it to imitate other people's auras convincingly enough to fool most magic detection methods. They can even make it appear as if there is less of it than there is... which is what you saw with the gun. That's why it didn't show up under the police's scanners? Yes. But for some reason, I suspect because of how much they've tainted it, it has a particularly strong reaction to an Angel's Light... as you saw. I've never heard of anything like it... why didn't you tell me about this sooner? I know I've been... vague, about this. I'm sorry. I worried if I told you all of this at once, you wouldn't believe me. (Well, it is admittedly hard to believe...) Also, if I told you too much at once, they might become suspicious... I didn't want to put you in danger. ... Um... so you said this tainted magic was developed by evil people, right? Yes. They're the only ones I know who use it. But... that gun belonged to your husband, didn't it...? ... ... Please don't judge my husband too harshly. You're not saying that he...? I guess I should explain. Bourne used to be a very different person... very cruel. But he changed his ways. He betrayed his former allies and chose a better life. ... And they've been hunting him down for it? ...Yes. They're angry at him for leaving, and I'm sure they're angry at me for influencing him. (This all sounds... eerily familiar.) So he used to be one of them... and that's why his gun's aura looked like that?  Yes... but something seems strange to me. And what would that be? The tainted magic is very unnatural. If it isn't constantly maintained, it will slowly revert to its natural state. Bourne hasn't been maintaining his own magic since he left a year ago, much less his gun... whatever enchantment he had on it shouldn't be that strong anymore. So... that means someone else probably recharged it before killing him. No way! It had to have been one of his old comrades! It has to be. No one else could do something like this. So now the only thing we have to do is figure out who that is... and prove it. ...I'm sorry to get you wrapped up in all this. No, it's alright. I understand now why you wanted my help, and I'm happy to do what I can to make things right. Yeah, don't worry! We're going to find whoever did this and prove you innocent! Th-thank you... I really appreciate it. Well, I guess we'd better get investigating. I'm not entirely sure where to start, though. From what you've told us, these people don't exactly make themselves well-known. That's true... they'll be very hard to track. Bourne would have known, but... *trails off* ... ... ...That reminds me... there have been a few cases recently where I haven't been able to contact the victim's spirit. Do you happen to know why...? I'm not sure... I think Bourne might have tried to warn me about this, but he was very vague... ...You think he knew this would happen ahead of time? I think so. (That has some... unsettling implications...) ...I'm sorry. That's all I can tell you about that. Hm... Well, like I was saying, I guess the only thing left to do at this point is start investigating. I'm not sure how we're going to find out who did this, though... Well... you know what my Sis always says, right? Er... I'm not sure that I do, actually. She says that when you're confronted with a problem, you've got to look at it from the other side! The... other side? You know, turn it around! Find another way to look at your problems, where the solution becomes obvious! Another way to look at your problems, huh? Hm... well, the way I see it, the killer must have been someone Mr. Freeman was personally familiar with. ...Mrs. Freeman, did your husband keep a journal, perhaps? A journal? Hm... not that I'm aware of, but there were a lot of his old things I never got to look at. I believe the police were looking into investigating his belongings, so you might get to take a look at them, as well. Ooh! Maybe! It's worth a try, at least. Alright. I guess we might as well head back to your house, then. Yeah. See you later, okay? And don't worry, we'll catch these bad guys! ! W-wait, before you leave... Hm? What is it? Just... what I told you... be very careful who you tell this to. If they find out that I told you, they'll almost certainly hunt you down. I don't want to see you hurt because of me. ...Alright. We'll be careful. Thank you. Good luck, Mr. Edgeworth. You're welcome. I'll do everything I can. Come on, Maya. *walks out of the room* Hang in there, okay? *follows* ~*~*~ {August 29th, 1PM Freeman Residence Front Yard} *As Gregory and Maya approach the house, it becomes immediately clear that a crowd of police officers are gathered in front of it. Detective Gumshoe is there as well, and soon notices them, waving them over* Hey! Mr. Edgeworth, sir! Over here! ...? *walks over* What is it, detective? Oh man, sir, am I glad to see you! You remember that incident with the gun from the trial today, right? Um... yes, why? Well, uhh... thing is, that thing with the aura you did? After seeing that, we all realized that there might be a bunch of magic around here that our scanners couldn't detect. And, uh... no one knows how to do what you did but you. ...So now you're asking for my help in finding strange auras you missed? Is that it? If that's okay with you, sir. But you're the prosecution and we're the defense. Isn't that not allowed? Hey, it's okay, pal! All we really need to do is a quick rundown of the area and you can be on your way. ...I'm not sure this is a good idea, but... I suppose I can help. Awesome, thanks, sir! We've got a warrant to investigate inside the house now, so we're currently working on unlocking the door. In the meantime, we should probably get another look at whatever's out here. I suppose that's fair enough. Where should I start? Oh, uh, I dunno. Wherever there seems like there might be magic. Alright. *glances around at the immediate area* (Let's see...) <Examine blood> ... Detective, doesn't spilled blood keep the aura of its owner for a while? Huh? Oh, yeah, apparently. Only for like a few hours, though. Whatever was there is probably gone by now. I see... thank you. (Hopefully he's right. The victim's aura might have still had some of that Tainted magic in it, and I'm not sure I should let the prosecution know about that yet...) *carefully runs a Lighted hand over the bloodstained grass* *nothing* (...Yeah, I don't see anything.)<Examine killer's area> Say, detective, do you know where the killer was standing when she shot Mr. Freeman? Oh yeah! Let's see, they were about six feet apart, and he was facing this way, so... *moves to the appropriate spot* Right around here! Alright, thank you. *starts checking the immediate area* *CH-JHHHKKKKT!* Whoa! You found something! *pulls out magic scanner and scans it* What does it say? Wow, these power levels are crazy... it looks like it matches the gun, though? So this is probably residual aura from the gun being fired. Probably! That makes sense. Do you know what the enchantment on the gun actually is, by the way? Well, the experts have been looking at it and trying to figure that out, but it's been tricky analyzing it because of how weird it is. Best we can tell, though, it seems to be some kind of stun spell. A stun spell? Why would you need to stun someone with a one-kit-kill weapon like a gun? I dunno, pal. In case your aim is off? (Considering that the killer got him with one shot straight to the heart, I'm not sure that was much of a problem for her...)<Talk to Gumshoe> So how's the investigation going? If I can ask. Well, to be honest, we've been kinda having trouble because we haven't been able to find any of those weird auras. But now that you're here, we should be able to find them no problem! ...Right. So, er, yesterday you were telling me about how difficult it's been to find records for the victim? Any luck with that? No luck with the victim, but we hit a breakthrough with Mrs. Freeman! Turns out her maiden name was Goodwin, and we had a lot more luck finding records for Maria Goodwin. Turns out she was born and raised here in this world with her parents... but her parents died in a house fire a couple years back. Oh... wow, I had no idea. Yeah. But then she just vanished off the grid about at year ago, which I assume is when she married Bourne Freeman. Pretty freaky, right? ...Yes. How interesting. (I guess that's because they've been living as fugitives... and Bourne was probably living beneath the law before that.) Hmm. So I'm guessing you don't know what kind of people Bourne might have known before he was married? Maybe he kept a journal? No idea, pal. But I bet we could find out if he had a journal once we get into the house!  *as if on cue, walks over* Alright, the door's unlocked. We should be able to get inside the house now. Well, I think we've found everything that we're going to find out here. I guess we might as well go inside. Alright! Let's head on in, pals! ~*~*~ {August 29th, 1:06PM Freeman Residence Living Room} *peers inside once the door opens* ...Huh. Pretty tidy for someone who's only lived here for a month. Well, they were only married for a year. They probably didn't have that many possessions yet. Yeah, I guess so. *strides in* Well, let's see what we've got! (Might as well.) *looks around*  <Examine boxes> (There are some boxes of yet unpacked belongings along the wall. It must be hard living on the run.) Hey, do you think there might be any journals in there? It's possible... depending on how regularly he wrote in it. There's not too many boxes anyway, so it's worth a look! *moves to open a box* Hey, hey! Don't touch that, pal; that could be evidence!  Eep! Sorry! But how do we look in the boxes, then? Well, you can't touch anything because you might get fingerprints on 'em. That's why you gotta wear these! *hands Maya a pair of evidence gloves* ...Oh! Thanks! *puts them on* (The more this continues, the more I feel like we're asking for trouble.) Let's see... stuff... more stuff... boring book... Unless it's a journal disguised to look like a boring book! *flips through* ...Er. ...Nope, doesn't look like there's anything interesting in here. Well, maybe something's got magic! *starts scanning stuff* *sighs and starts checking things with Light* *After a while of this, it becomes clear that there is nothing of note in these boxes* I really don't think there's anything here. Aw, I think you're right. Well, it was worth a try... <Examine light fixture> (Hm... one of the lightbulbs is missing, and there's a stepladder next to the light fixture. I guess they were replacing the bulb?) Wow! There's a ladder right in the middle of the room! Actually, pal, that's a stepladder! Oh no, not you, too! You're just like Nick! ...? You should stop fussing over the details and look at things more simply! B-but I have to pay attention to detail, pal! I'm a detective! Yeah, but if you're always concerned with the details, you'll miss the big picture! But what if I miss crucial evidence by looking too broadly? Gotta be specific, see! Oh yeah? Well, let's ask Mr. Edgeworth! What do you think? I, uh... I have no comment. <Examine table> (A small table with a single picture frame on it is the only thing that decorates the room.) ... Huh. This picture frame is broken. Oh yeah, it is... I wonder when that happened? ...I'm not sure, but I think I can guess. Take a look at the picture.  That's Maria and Bourne, isn't it? They look so happy together... Maybe the defendant smashed this picture frame out of rage when she heard her husband was cheating on her! ...Something like that, yes. (I guess this could be part of the killer's attempt to frame Maria, but it seems a bit... over the top.) Hey, this could be evidence! You should find out if there's any magic on it. Oh yeah! That's a good idea, pal. *runs over with the scanner* *nothing* ... *holds a Lighted hand next to it* *still nothing* ...Well, however this was broken, it wasn't done with magic. (It still seems a bit odd, though...) ~Broken Frame added to the Court Record!~ --- Hm... I don't think we're going to find anything else in this room. Yeah, you might be right. So, another room, then? That would probably be best, yes. Let's go, then! *heads into the next room* ~*~*~ {August 29th, 1:16PM Freeman Residence Bedroom} Alright, this looks like... the bedroom? Ooh! If Bourne had a journal, this would be the most likely place for him to keep it, right? Probably, yes. Let's look around.  <Examine bed> (The blankets on the bed are neatly made. I'm guessing Mrs. Freeman is one to keep things tidy.) <Examine window> (It's not much of a view out this window. All you can really see is Mrs. Duval's house and the fence. There's no windows into Mrs. Duval's house visible from here, so I'm guessing she can't really see into this room, either...) Hm. Do you think anyone could get in through that window? I don't know, possibly. They'd have to get through the lock, though. Oh yeah, huh... I wonder how you unlock it? *fiddles with the lock for a moment* ...Um. Hm? What is it? This lock doesn't seem to be working right. I think it's broken. That's... troubling. I wonder how long it's been like that? Unfortunately, there's no real way to tell. Could've happened recently, or it could've been like that for years. We should ask Maria about it. She'd probably know if the window was broken. We'll have to do that later. By the way, detective, any chance we can find out if there are any fingerprints on the window? Well, Ms. von Karma would probably want to know that, too, so... Sure! I'll get some guys to look into it. Great, thank you. (If Maya's right, the killer may have gotten in through here...) ~Broken Window added to the Court Record!~ ...Huh. This drawer was left open. This must be where Mr. Freeman kept his gun! Probably. I see ammunition in here, too. Well, there's one way we can find out! *starts scanning the drawer for magic* *starts washing over the area with Light, just in case* Wait! I'm picking something up here in front of the drawer. Can you bring some of that over here? Hm? Oh, sure. *holds up his hand where directed* *CH-JKKKKKKT!* Whoa! This aura... ...Hm, I don't recognize this aura. It doesn't really look like the gun, but it was made just a little bit before the murder... ... (Is this from when the killer charged the gun's aura? But how would it be a different aura than the gun? I wish I knew how Tainted magic worked...) I'm gonna have to get this one analyzed. That's weird... Er, yes, I agree. (Moving on, I guess...)<Examine desk> (A writing desk sits by the window. Aside from a few papers on top, it's nice and tidy.) Hey, there's some crumpled up papers in the garbage! Maybe there's clues in them! Er, I suppose it's possible. It might give some insight into what Mr. Freeman was doing before he died, at least. Exactly! Can't leave any evidence unexamined! *grabs and de-crumples one of the papers* *glances over the papers on the desk* (Most of these are reminders, apparently written by Maria. This one's a shopping list: a new lightbulb, a box of screws...) ...! M-M-Mr. Edgeworth! Hm? What is it? This letter... it's addressed to Ray Venn! Who's— No way, pal! That kid who got murdered a couple weeks ago?  Yeah! H-he's one of the spirits I couldn't contact! ! So they knew each other? What does it say? Take a look! *reads it carefully* ... --- To Ray Venn,
There is something I neglected to tell you at our meeting yesterday. It was wrong of me not to tell you, as you deserve to know the truth.
I told you what happened, but I did not tell you who was behind it. The truth is... it was me. The whole thing was my doing, a fact that will forever haunt me. I wish I could take it all back, but I know that is impossible.
While I hope that you will not react harshly, I understand why you may be upset by this. If you wish to--- ...This must be Mr. Freeman's handwriting... it looks like he didn't finish this. (He also used a lot of vague wording...) H-he makes it sound like...! No way! Is this... a confession?! It looks like it... but for what, exactly? Well, the guy who killed him was Clen Hall... But what if it wasn't?! What if it was actually Bourne Freeman?! ...I don't think so. It doesn't make sense that he'd confess to his victim... especially if there's no way to contact him. Oh, right. Uh... well, there was this case Ray was looking into just before he died. About his dad, I think? His dad? Y-you don't think...? I don't know... but maybe Mrs. Freeman would know more about this.  ~Unfinished Letter added to the Court Record!~ --- I think that's all there is to look at in this room. Well, there was definitely a lot to look at. I think we've doubled our amount of evidence already! I guess we have. I just hope we can make sense of it all. We'll get to the bottom of this, one way or another! By the way, sir, thanks a lot for all your help! We couldn't have done it without y— "Have you started the investigation without me, Scruffy?" !!! Wait, that's—! *walks into the room* How can you expect to investigate the scene perfectly without— ... ... ... Er... excuse us, we were just— What are they doing here?!To be continued... (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. |
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Post by PFA on Jan 8, 2014 17:19:01 GMT -5
M-Ms. von Karma! They were just helping me a bit with the— They're the defense team! We're not supposed to work with the defense team, Scruffy!  I know, but Mr. Edgeworth is the only one who knows how to find the weird auras! *pipes in cautiously* It, uh... it reacts to Angel's Light. He said that it was reacting to the Light in the trial, you foolish fool! Why didn't you get someone else that uses Light?! I-I'm sorry, sir! I didn't catch that part! You didn't—  You foolishly foolish fool! *whipped* I'm sorryyyy...!  Whoa, hey! *steps in to restrain Franziska* We don't need to resort to violence here. *shoves Gregory away, glaring at him* And you! You should have known better than to interfere with the police investigation! I... huh? You're supposed to be a famous defense attorney! You shouldn't be so foolishly foolish as to make such a foolish mistake! Hey, don't take it out on Mr. Edgeworth! Y-yeah! It's my fault, not his! And why not?! If it weren't his fault, he would have refused your foolish offer! But... that doesn't— Everyone, please, calm down. Ms. von Karma, I'm sorry about the misunderstanding. Maya and I will leave you to your work, and we can continue ours elsewhere for now. Is that alright? You— how can you— ...nnrrgh! I can't believe you! ...? You make such a foolish mistake and then you just... you just walk away?! ...I admit I made a mistake. I'm not supposed to be here. So I'm leaving so as not to cause any more trouble. But... but... you can't just leave! What if you learned important information for the prosecution?! I'm sorry, but whether or not I did, there's really much we can do about that now. You... you...! Nnrrrgh!  You're so infuriating! Whoa—! *Before anyone could realize what was going on, Franziska pulled back and tried to whip Gregory. Gregory instinctively tried to phase out, but much to his surprise, the attack was laced with a surge of dark energy, which even his phasing could not avoid*  Ow! *knocked back* Mr. Edgeworth!! What did you do?!  *looks rather stunned, herself* I... I... *runs over to Gregory's aid* Mr. Edgeworth, are you okay? *dusts self off, regaining composure* Yeah, I'm fine... What happened? Was that... dark magic?! I... I don't know, I... ...Um... m-maybe we should be going now... ...I agree. Er... sorry again. *backs away slowly* ... ~*~*~ {August 29th, 1:29PM Freeman Residence Backyard} *walks into the backyard, away from the police and their investigation* Well, that was... interesting. Yeah, no kidding. Are you sure you're okay? I'm fine, really. I've been worse. *decides to change the subject* So now what? We gathered a lot of evidence, but nothing that tells us who the culprit is. Um... maybe one of Mrs. Freeman's other neighbors saw something? Mrs. Duval can't have been the only one home, right? I suppose it's worth looking into. Someone must have at least heard the gunshot. Well, let's start looking, then! *heads for the nearest house* ... *follows* ~*~*~ So we asked around the immediate area, seeing if anyone besides Mrs. Duval knew anything about the murder. Unfortunately, it didn't seem like anyone else even saw it. Some people said that they didn't even find the gunshot sound all that unusual, which is... a little alarming, but I suppose understandable in a crazy place like this.
Nonetheless, the further we got from the Freemans' house, the more it seemed we were coming up empty-handed...~*~*~ {August 29th, 2:24PM Taco City Residential District Edge} ...I'm not even sure if this is the residential district anymore. Maybe we should turn back. We've got to keep looking! We promised Maria we'd find her husband's killer, remember? I know, but I doubt we're going to find anything out here. This is actually starting to feel a little dangerous; we should turn back. But where else can we look? I'm not... *trails off, hearing something* ...? What is it? I think I hear someone... *Sure enough, if they listen closely, they can hear the distant sound of footsteps. Turning to see where the sound is coming from, a figure fades into sight*  *hums a tune to herself as she walks along* ~ Hey, a person! Maybe she knows something! *runs over* Hello! Excuse me!  *does a double take as she gets close, realizing how tall this person is* Whoa! Hm? Oh, hey there! Have we met? Um... I don't think so? *cranes neck to look up at her* You're, um... really tall.  *laughs* Yeah, I get that a lot. I'm a Giant, you see. The name's Roanne! What's yours? I'm Maya! It's nice to meet you! I don't think I've ever met a Giant before, hee hee. Ha! Well then, today's your lucky day. Anyway, did you need something? People don't come out this way too often. Actually, yeah, we did. We're looking for information.  Information? What kind of information? *walks over* We're currently investigating a murder. We're hoping you might know something about it.  A murder? *looks at Gregory* ... Say, haven't we met once? *blinks* ...Um... maybe? (She does look vaguely familiar...) Yeah, I'm sure of it... where was it? It was something important, I think... I'm, er, I'm not sure that's relevant right n—  *suddenly* Oh! Yeah, that's right! A couple of winters ago, there was a big fight, and you were there. I helped you out, if I remember right. A couple of... *aura drops in realization* ...winters...? ...Mr. Edgeworth? (The first Cursed Day... December 28th. She must have been one of the ones who helped out when von Karma attacked...) ...Uh... geez, sorry, I didn't mean to trouble you. No, it's... not your fault. To be fair, I don't remember that day very well. *clears throat, regaining composure* But that's in the past. We have more urgent matters to worry about right now. Uh... yeah, sure. You said something about a murder? Yes. Do you happen to know anything about this person? *shows profile* Maria Freeman? *looks at the picture* Hm... she does look kind of familiar, actually! ! Really? Yeah, I think I saw her yesterday! She looked pretty steamed, too. What was she doing? Do you remember? Yeah, she was heading off in this direction, actually. *gestures toward the abandoned part of town* *raises eyebrow* ...Really now? (It seems odd that a peaceful person like Mrs. Freeman would willingly go somewhere so dangerous...) Yeah. And like I said, she looked really mad. I don't think she even noticed me, she was so mad. Did she do anything... notable? *thinks on this* ...Well, there's a lot of little monsters and critters running around this area, y'know? Which is probably why people don't come out here much, I guess. ...And what does that have to Mrs. Freeman? Well, while she was storming off in a huff, one of those monsters tried to attack her. Before it could even hit her, though, she shot this really noisy Bolt spell at it. Never saw anything like it! ...  *smiles slowly* Oh really now? I swear it's the truth. Saw it with my own eyes! Do you happen to remember where this happened? This could be very important for our case. Hm... I might! It was right over this way, I think... *starts leading the way* *They walk through the area for a while, before eventually Roanne stops at a particular area* This is looking pretty familiar. I think it was around here? I guess there's one way to find out. *starts glowing with Light* Shield your eyes. Wait, what are you— *Gregory suddenly unleashes a bright Light in all directions*  Gah! *CH-JHHHKKKKKKT!* *the Light starts to fade as he looks in the direction of the sound* ...There. *Sure enough, the remnants of Tainted magic crackle against the Light, outlining a beam attack that was used, but the reaction fades as the Light does* ...What the heck was that? It's a long story. *moves closer to take a better feel of the aura* (The aura does feel familiar, and yet...) I wonder if we can get someone to scan this? Ooh! I know someone who has a scanner! I can ask Nick if she still has her number. That might be helpful, thanks. *pulls out cell phone and dials* So, uh...? We really do appreciate your help. In fact, we could probably use your testimony in court tomorrow. My testimony? What you saw. Basically what you just told us. Well, if it'll help, sure! I'm always willing to lend a hand. So who do I need to tell it to and when? Oh, um... the trial will be at the courthouse tomorrow at 10AM. We should be able to help you find the right courtroom. Okay, and where's the courthouse? It's, um... that large building in the middle of town? Eh, I'm sure someone will know. I'll be sure to be there! Alright, thank you. I appreciate it. Anyway, I should probably be on my way, if that's okay. Hm? Oh, of course. See you tomorrow, then.  Yeah, you bet! *waves and heads off* *meanwhile, on the phone* ...Okay, great! See you in a bit, then! *hangs up* She says she'll be here pretty soon. Who did you call, exactly? A friend of Nick's. She's a forensics scientist! And she has a magic scanner, I take it? Yep! She helped me and Nick with some magic stuff on our last case, too. I see. I guess the only thing left to do is wait, then. *examines the Tainted residue some more, trying to get a feel for the aura* *Time passes. After a few moments, a now familiar face enters the scene, magic scanner in hand*  Here you are! Wow, this really is a ways out... Hi, Ema! We're glad you came. You're the forensics scientist?  That's right! Ema Skye, Scientific Investigator, at your service! ...Well, Scientific Investigator In-Training, at least. (...In-training? So she's just a student?) *blinks at Gregory* ...You know, you look kind of familiar. Have we met? Oh... probably not, but you might have heard of me. I'm Gregory Edgeworth.  *suddenly beams* Oh! You're Prosecutor Edgeworth's dad, aren't you? I've heard a lot about you! Wow, what an honor! Yes, it's nice to meet you, too. Now if it's not too much trouble...  Oh, right! You needed something scanned for magic, right? That's right. *gestures* There's magic residue over here. Alright, can do! *walks over, holding her scanner over the indicated area* Hm... yep! There was definitely magic here. *glances over her shoulder at the scanner* ...Do you have a good reading? Yep! It's very clear. Alright, because I'm about to do something that will affect the reading. Wait, huh? *hand starts to glow with Light* *pauses* ...You might want to plug your ears. What? Why? *plugs own ears* Trust us, it's loud. ... *plugs ears?* *sighs, lowering his hand into the aura* *CH-JHHHKKKKKKT!* *startled by this* Eep! Can you get another scan now? Um, yes, right! *does so* ...Wow! The aura's a lot stronger, suddenly! *moves hand away, letting the Tainted reaction fade* Yeah, that tends to happen with this type of magic. Really? What type of magic is this? It's... complicated. At any rate, thank you for your help, Ms. Skye. Hm? Oh! No problem! Is there anything else you need? Well, I'll need some copies of those scans you just took, but other than that, I don't think so.  Alright, no problem! I can get them to you before the trial tomorrow morning. That would be great, thank you. Well then, let me know if you need anything else! *heads off* ... *once she's out of earshot* This aura... it feels familiar. How so? It feels a lot like one of the auras we found at the Freemans' house. The one in front of the drawer. But... also a little different. And given what we know about the people behind this... ...They can change their auras at will! Exactly. So it's definitely the killer, then! I think so. If I had to guess, whoever this was was trying to imitate Mrs. Freeman's aura... but by the time they got here, it started changing back. That's fantastic! So if we can just figure out what the killer's natural aura looks like, we should be able to find them no problem! Well, I think I've gotten a pretty good feel of the aura, and that Giant said that she was heading in this direction... I might just be able to track her, especially if she used any more magic along the way. Then let's go! Time to find ourselves a killer! *concentrates, trying to sense similar auras* ... Let's go. *starts walking* *follows* ~*~*~ {August 29th, 3:16PM Taco City Abandoned Outskirts} *some time later, is still trying to find the right aura* ...I think we're getting close. *looks around warily* I hope so. This place is starting to look kind of... scary. ...You know, you didn't have to come if you didn't want to. No, it's okay! I mean, even if we do run into any bad guys, I've got a big strong Angel to protect me. You will protect me, right? Uh... ... *nods* Yes, of course. I'll keep you safe. (...Of course, I'd never hear the end of it if I said "no"...) Great! Then I've got nothing to worry about. I trust you, Mr. Edgeworth~ (I just hope it won't come to that...) *keeps following his senses* *still following* So... do you think we're almost there? I think so... I'm feeling the aura more strongly now... "Looking for something, Mr. Edgeworth?" ! *looks in the direction of the voice*  *leaning on one of the buildings, looking almost bored* 'Cause this isn't really the safest place to lose your keys in, if you catch my drift. *ducks behind Gregory* Who are you?  The name's Sylvia. Sylvia Tang. I'm a bounty hunter. *looks at Gregory* My question still stands, though. I don't think a guy like you should be out here in a dangerous place like this. I mean, what if you got hurt? I don't think your son would be too happy. ... If you must know, we're looking for evidence for a murder case.  You're on a case? That's surprising. I thought you were retired. I am, but sometimes I make exceptions. How fascinating. So what is it this time? Your boy get himself in trouble again? Actually, the defendant in this case is a woman named Maria Freeman. Perhaps you know her? Or perhaps the victim, Bourne Freeman? Bourne? Bourne is dead? So you did know him? Oh yeah, I knew Bourne. We were really close... heh. ... But anyway, what a shame he was killed. I really liked him. I mean, I really liked him, if you catch my drift. Yes, I get it. (Sounds like she's setting herself up as the one Bourne supposedly had an affair with.) (But is that the true story?) If you're going to keep making that face at me, I should tell you that I don't know anything about Bourne's murder. I didn't even hear about it until just now. ...Are you sure about that, Ms. Tang? I have pretty good memory, you know. I would remember hearing about something like that. Well, whether you heard about it or not, I think you may have something to do with it. After all, the defendant was Bourne's wife... if you catch my drift. ... Seeing as you may or may not be directly connected to Mrs. Freeman's motive, I think your testimony would be very useful for our case in court. Wouldn't you agree? That seems like a dangerous move for being this lady's defense attorney. Do you agree or not?  *shrugs* Whatever. Your funeral. Or should I say second funeral? H-hey, cut that out already! That's not nice! Forgive me, Ms. Fey. Bounty hunters aren't known for sparing feelings. Yeah, but— *ahem* Thank you for your cooperation, Ms. Tang. *extends a hand* We'll see you in court. *looks at his hand* ... What, do bounty hunters not shake hands, either? Uh... we're not exactly known for our warm handshakes, no. It's how people seal the deal when making an agreement. Surely that's a concept you're familiar with? I don't need to "seal the deal." I just get it done. *shrugs him off and walks away* So see you tomorrow, then. ... *once she's out of earshot* How rude! First she said all that mean stuff, then she wouldn't even shake your hand! Yes, but I think it was rather telling. Huh? How? I don't know if you noticed, but I felt the aura we were tracking a lot more strongly just moments before she showed up. It wasn't exactly the same, but... ...These bad guys can alter their auras! Correct. And considering how quick she was to connect herself to the victim—plus her reservations about shaking hands with an Angel, who would immediately notice a Tainted aura—I don't think it's coincidence. You're right! That's definitely suspicious! Do you think she was the killer? *adjusts glasses* If so, there are a lot of things we'd have to consider. For one thing, we would have to prove she has Tainted magic. But that's easy, right? Just hit her with some Light and see if her aura responds! It's not really that simple. Doing something like that without permission is an invasion of privacy. We could get in trouble for that. Oh, yeah, I guess. But if we could prove it was relevant, she'd have to consent to a scan, right? Right. But beyond that, we have witnesses who identified the killer as looking like Mrs. Freeman. Ms. Tang didn't look anything like her, so how would she have disguised herself? ... And probably the most important one... motive. We might know about Mr. Freeman's past, but the prosecution doesn't. And I doubt Ms. von Karma or the judge will take anything less than solid evidence. Which... will be difficult for a secret organization. Hey, don't worry! I'm sure we'll figure something out. I mean, we've already come this far, right? I suppose... I just hope we can figure this out before the trial tomorrow. (Maybe I should write this all down, collect my thoughts...) Don't worry, I'm sure we will! We have to! *determined fistpump* Well, for now, we should probably get out of here. It's probably not a good idea to stay here for too long. Oh, yeah, I guess. Come on. *starts heading off* *follows* ~*~*~ ...So with all of our new evidence, we went back to the town square, where we could get a chance to rest and look over our leads. We considered asking Mrs. Freeman about some of the things we found, but by the time we got back to the detention center, she was in questioning... and then when we came back, visiting hours were over. I guess we'd have to ask her tomorrow.
At any rate, we now had a lot more of the pieces of the puzzle before us. We'd just have to figure out how they all fit together...To be continued... (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window.  Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic.  Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... |
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Post by PFA on Jan 9, 2014 15:47:39 GMT -5
Other Writer Moment (Intermission)Franziska and Iris (some implied Ace Attorney spoilers, mostly T&T){Daisy's Daisies Late Afternoon} *The bell chimes as a customer steps into the shop.*  *Soft smile* Hello, Daisy. I'm here to buy some more flowers. Oh, hello, Iris! Any particular colors you'd like today? *Places her hands together* Yes… I'd like red and white roses, white lillies, and some lavender flowers. In a wreath, if you can. *notes this down* Okay! I'll see what I have~  Thank you… it's for my cousin, so I want it to be special. Of course, of course... *starts looking to see what flowers she has* *While she's looking, the door opens again, and someone else walks in* Hello, welcome to Daisy's Daisies. How may I—  Oh! Ms. von Karma? Hello. I'd like to ask you a few more questions, if you don't mind. Oh, well, I'm busy with a customer at the moment, but... It's fine, I can wait.  *nods, continuing her work*  *Turns to Franziska, looking confused* Hello, Ms. Franziska. Are you working on a case? *glances at her* ...Yes, I am.  Oh. *Presses her hands together* I hope things are going well, then. ... *doesn't respond, lost in some thought or another* Sorry if I'm interrupting your investigation… I'm buying flowers for my cousin's memorial wreath. I ask Mystic Maya to help me out every year, but it's still a little hard on her.  She's also been so busy lately… ...  The case you're working on… is it another… another murder where the victim was unresponsive? ... I'm not sure how much I should say about that. You don't have to. I understand. I just hope you can put a stop to this, if that's the case. You're really good at what you do… I'm sure you can find who's doing this and prevent it from happening again. ...Hm. Don't worry; I assure you the criminal responsible for this heinous crime will be properly punished. *Smiles* Thank you. People are starting to get scared… it really helps to know that there are people working to keep us safe. Especially at a time like this. Of course. The safety of the people is one of my top priorities. I hope you stay safe too. Sometimes it's easy to overlook our own needs when we're caring for others. But I suppose you get used to it when you serve in the courts. ... I just… *Falters, looking away* …I can never be sure what my sister is doing, and at this time of year… well, I worry about all my friends. *lost in thought* ... *returns with the flowers Iris requested* Do these look alright?  Oh! *Turns back to Daisy* Yes, thank you!  It's beautiful. *Hands over a small cloth pouch of assorted coinage* I'm sure she'll appreciate it.  I'm glad you like it. *takes the pouch, and hands over the wreath* I always enjoy doing business with you. *Takes the wreath* I'll be back around this time next month for poppies and Edelweiss. *nods* Okay. I'll see you then. *Turns to Franziska* Good luck on your investigation. I suppose I won't really hear about how it goes until after it's safe to come out again, but I wish you the best. ...Thank you. *Leaves the shop, humming softly* ... *suddenly, as she's leaving* Don't worry about me. I can take care of myself. *scowls with determination* And I'll make certain no one else is hurt, either. *Turns in the doorway, pausing* ? … *Smiles* Oh, I'm sure of it, Ms. von Karma. You helped save me and my cousin before—you're a lot stronger than I am, so I'm sure you'll be alright. It's just that sometimes you feel worried about your friends and people you love, even if you know they are strong enough to face whatever's coming. It's just what friends do.  But I'll keep that in mind.~ Have a good day. *With that she lets the door close and walks off in the direction of the HR, pulling up her hood before vanishing in a swirl of numbers.* ... ...So, you wanted to talk to me? ...Yes, that's right. I was wondering if you might know about...
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Post by PFA on Jan 22, 2014 14:26:08 GMT -5
{August 30th, 9:52AM District Courthouse Defendant's Lobby} The bedroom window...? We noticed that the lock was broken. Do you know how long it's been like that? To be honest, we almost never opened that window. I'm not sure... (Hm, so that's no help.) Um... and there was a picture frame in your front room that was broken, too. Do you know about that? A picture frame...? You mean the picture of me and Bourne? Yes. Was it broken before? It was fine last I looked... it must have happened recently. And the last time you were in the house was before the murder, right? ...Yes. Which means the killer probably did break it! I can't believe they would break that picture... *trails off in thought* I thought it was a little strange, myself. It could be part of their attempt to frame you, but it still seems a bit... impulsive. Then... they really must be mad at him for leaving... ...I suppose so. (A little too mad if you ask me...) Oh, there was one more thing we were wondering about. Do you know anything about someone named Ray Venn? I've... heard about him. Bourne was very upset when he heard of what happened to him... So your husband knew him? I guess so. He wouldn't say much about it, but I think he knew him because of an... "incident." ...There was a case Ray was looking into before he died... something about his father... ...That would make sense... from what I know about Bourne's former allies, I'm guessing that that boy's father was either murdered or framed. ... (And if that confession letter was any indication...) That's so horrible... and then Ray must have been killed because he knew too much... That would be my guess. Oh, that poor boy... ... *suddenly* The trial is about to start. I wonder where Ms. Skye is with those reports? Reports? *suddenly, the lobby doors swing open* I hope I'm not late! No, you're just in time. You brought the reports, right? Uh-huh! *hands them over* Here you go! ~Magic Readings added to the Court Record!~ *looks them over* ...Why aren't the estimated times the same? Um, I don't really know. I think the spike in aura strength threw it off? Hm... I guess that would make sense. (But they're both after the murder, so at least we can be sure of that much.) Thank you. These should prove useful. No problem! I'm glad to help however I can. Good luck in the trial! Thank you. "The trial for Maria Freeman is about to start. All participants, please move to courtroom number seven." Well, that's our cue. (We've got witnesses this time... evidence. With any luck, we can use it to turn this case around. Let's do this.) *heads for the courtroom* *follow* ~*~*~ {August 30th, 10:00AM District Courthouse Courtroom No.7} *bangs gavel* Court is now in session for the trial of Maria Freeman. The defense is ready, Your Honor. The prosecution is ready, Your Honor. Ms. von Karma, have the police been able to identify the unusual enchantment found on the murder weapon? ...Yes and no. The magic found on the weapon, as we have all seen, appears to be a unique type of magic that has an averse reaction to Angel's Light. The magic specialists said they had never seen anything like it before. Oh my... how unusual. Agreed, though for the purposes of this case, entirely irrelevant. ...What? How so? As you may recall, the gun belonged to the victim himself. In fact, the aura on it was tested. The closest match? Bourne Freeman. Wait, what? I would think it fairly obvious. The gun belonged to Bourne Freeman, who enchanted the weapon himself. Perhaps the unusual nature of the enchantment is related to why he did not previously have the gun registered. ... ...But ultimately, this changes nothing about the case at hand. Enchanted or not, this weapon was still used by Maria Freeman to murder her husband. ...Hm... I see. Mr. Edgeworth? ...I respectfully disagree, Ms. von Karma. I think the exact nature of this enchantment has everything to do with this case, and I intend to prove it. For one thing, you still haven't told us what this mysterious enchantment does. I don't see how such information would be helpful to you, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth, but I will present it for completeness. The magic specialists described it as a type of stunning spell. However, it appears to only work under certain circumstances. And what circumstances are those? ...As best as they can tell, the enchantment would only affect spirits. *thinks on this* ...I see. (A stun spell that only works on spirits? That's... disturbing...)~Pistol updated in the Court Record!~ On the topic of magic readings, a more thorough investigation of the scene of the crime was conducted once we learned of this information. It seems only fair that we review our findings in detail, so we may have a perfect understanding of the case. Hm... fair enough. In a court of law, we must review all of the details. Exactly. At this time, the prosecution would like to call Detective Dick Gumshoe once more to the stand... *Gumshoe makes his way back up to the stand* Detective, would you mind testifying as to what was found in the follow-up investigation of the Freemans' home? Of course, sir. -TESTIMONY-
Follow-up investigation Like Ms. von Karma said, we did a follow-up investigation of the scene after we learned about the enchantment on the gun, 'cause we thought we might be able to find more magic readings there. There was definitely more of the weird magic found at the Freemans' house. The first one was found on the front lawn, and we believe it to have been set off by the gun. The other one was found in the Freemans' bedroom, in front of the drawer... the aura matched Maria Freeman's. But there's not really anything unusual about that, pal. It doesn't change anything. --- Wait, what? Maria Freeman's aura? It was found at their house. Is it really that unusual? ...I suppose not. (It's a lot more unusual than you think, actually...) I presume we have scan records of this aura, then? Yep! I've got them right here. ~Magic Readings added to the Court Record!~ ...Hm. Mr. Edgeworth? Your cross-examination, please. Yes, Your Honor. You can do it, Mr. Edgeworth!-CROSS-EXAMINATION-
Follow-up investigation Like Ms. von Karma said, we did a follow-up investigation of the scene after we learned about the enchantment on the gun, 'cause we thought we might be able to find more magic readings there. <Press> And you did find some, right? That's right, sir... --- There was definitely more of the weird magic found at the Freemans' house. The first one was found on the front lawn, and we believe it to have been set off by the gun. <Press> And what makes you say that? Well, first off, it was found at around the same place the shooter was standing. And the magic specialists said, even though the weird aura was messing up their readings a little, it appeared to have happened at around the time of the murder. But probably the most important one is that the aura matched the one on the weapon. The aura on the weapon is the same as the victim's, though, isn't it? Is it possible he fought back against his attacker? If he had attacked her, then we would have found traces of magic near where the victim was standing, as well. Besides that, the aura found was an exact match with the enchantment on the weapon... as in, the exact same spell. And what reason would he have to use such a spell on someone who we have already proven not to have been a spirit? (...We still don't know what exactly the enchantment does, you know. Oh well, I have nothing to prove it with, anyway...)--- The other one was found in the Freemans' bedroom, in front of the drawer... the aura matched Maria Freeman's. Was this the remnants of a spell? Uh... yeah. We're not really sure what it did, though. The magic specialists said it looked like a lot of energy was channeled for some purpose, but they weren't really sure what. (Channeling energy, huh? Well, isn't that interesting.) I wasn't aware that Mrs. Freeman had magical capabilities. We weren't aware that the victim had magical capabilities until yesterday, either. And the enchantment on the weapon only revealed itself with after coming into contact with Angel's Light. How can we be sure that Mrs. Freeman isn't similarly able to hide her own magic talent? But the aura found at the scene had the same Taint. That's why it had to be tested twice—once without being exposed to Angel's Light, and once with. If Mrs. Freeman were actually capable of making this type of magic, wouldn't her own aura have a similar reaction? We don't know that the strange reaction to Angel's Light comes from the user's aura, or the manner in which they cast the spell. Who's to say that her aura would react? ... (I don't believe it, but I don't have any way to argue that...) All we know is that the aura we found clearly belonged to Mrs. Maria Freeman, and not anyone else. We also have no proof that this aura is even relevant to this case. Unless you have evidence to the contrary, the presence of this aura proves nothing. *looks contemplative* ... (She's right... on its own, the aura found in the bedroom won't prove anything.) (But next to the evidence, it changes everything.)--- But there's not really anything unusual about that, pal. It doesn't change anything. <Press> What do you mean there's nothing unusual about it? I'd say the nature of the magic alone is very unusual! Perhaps that is so, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth, but I don't see what that has to do with this case. Whatever unusual magic the victim and his wife may possess does not change the fact that Bourne Freeman was murdered on his front lawn, with his own pistol. Which is what this case is about. Yes, well— Besides that, the auras found belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Freeman. Why wouldn't their auras be found at their own home? It has nothing to do with this case, and as such, it proves nothing. (It has a lot more to do with this case than you think, actually...)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- <Present Evidence> The other one was found in the Freemans' bedroom, in front of the drawer... the aura matched Maria Freeman's. Are you absolutely certain that the aura was left by Maria Freeman? Of course it was. It was tested by the experts, and they agreed that it was a perfect match. Really? Because I have a different scan report here you might want to take a look at.   What is this? This was found about a half hour's walk away from the scene of the crime... a brief magical attack, occurring some time after the murder. Now, if you'll compare this reading to the one found in the Freemans' house...    ...Oh my! It's a match! That's right, Your Honor. This aura also matches Mrs. Freeman... but that's impossible. After all, this clearly coincides with the time of her arrest, doesn't it?  These auras aren't the same! Well, no, not exactly. But they're very close. I'd find it very hard to believe that's a coincidence, wouldn't you? There's only an hour gap between them at best! Auras don't change that much in such a short period of time! Actually... this wouldn't be the first time I've heard of this. There were two recent cases of illusionists who possessed the ability to alter their own aura. What?! I find it very peculiar that such incidents could come up in such short succession. Do you have any proof of this, Mr. Edgeworth? Actually, I think I do. Perhaps you remember this? Mrs. Freeman's receipt from the gardening store? Yes. If you'll remember, this receipt is dated for the day of the murder, at 11:30AM. Now take another look at the magic scans that the prosecution just presented... specifically, the time estimations. ...If these are right, this spell was cast somewhere between 11:15 and 11:40AM. Now as I recall correctly, it takes about fifteen minutes to travel between the gardening shop and the Freeman house. Isn't that right, Ms. von Karma? ...! So let me ask again. Are you absolutely certain that the aura you found belongs to Mrs. Freeman? And not an impostor?! *Surprised mutterings from the gallery* If there truly was an impostor, how do you know the Maria Freeman at the gardening shop was the real one?! The one that was arrested was carrying the bulbs she purchased with her. Are you telling me that we arrested the impostor? Well... well, maybe we did! That would mean the one we arrested is guilty, after all! Oh, but she's not the impostor. The woman in the defendant's seat right now is the real Maria Freeman... and she is innocent. This is an interesting turn of events. Do you have a way to prove all of this, Mr. Edgeworth? I just might, actually. You may be wondering how I discovered this aura, and the answer is that there was a witness who saw the magic being used... by Maria Freeman. A witness?! That's right. This witness happened to be walking through the area when she caught sight of a very disgruntled individual who she identified as Mrs. Freeman. I believe it's only fair we hear her testimony on the matter. Hm... I agree. Detective, you may be dismissed. *scrambles off meekly* Now then. The defense would like to request that this witness take the stand at this time, so we may clear up this matter once and for all! *The doors swing open, and Roanne is escorted into the room* Hey there, everyone! So you just need me to talk about what I saw, right? Er... yes, though preferably at the witness' stand. The what? *gestures* Please take your place at the witness' stand. Oh! Okay, sure, no problem! *saunters up to the stand* Right here, then? Yes, that's fine. (What have I gotten myself into...) *blinks, noting the size difference between Roanne and the witness' stand* You're, er... *laughs at this* Yeah, I get that a lot. I'm a Giant! The name's— *whipped* Ow! What in the world?! Foolishly foolish fool who makes a mockery of proper courtroom procedure!  Hey wait a minute! I don't know much about procedure, that's true, but I'm pretty sure whips aren't usually involved! *bangs gavel* Order in the court! Everyone calm down, please! *looks a little miffed, but obliges* Okay then, what am I supposed to say again? First off, please state your name and occupation for the record of the court. Wasn't that what I was just about to do? Name and occupation!  Okay, okay! Geez, don't need to yell. *hides face in shame* The name's Roanne! I work for the King of Vales, as a warrior for the Giants. Will you please tell us again about what you saw the other day? About that Freeman gal, right? Sure, no problem! (Finally, we're getting somewhere...)-TESTIMONY-
What I saw I was going about my business, walking through that part of town just on the edge of where people still live, y'know? That's when I saw that Freeman gal walking through! And boy, she sure looked mad! I don't think she even noticed me, she was so mad. And there's a lot of little critters running around that area, y'know? So one of them tried to attack her, but she shot at it with this super noisy Bolt spell before it could even reach her. Knocked it out in one blow! And then she stormed off into the abandoned part of town. I didn't think much of it at the time, so I just continued on my way. --- This is... interesting. Mr. Edgeworth? As I've already explained, this attack was confirmed to happen after Mr. Freeman's murder, at the same time or after Mrs. Freeman's arrest. The one we arrested is the real one... which would mean that the woman Ms. Roanne saw can only be an impostor. Hmph! It's a weak argument at best! Your Honor, I have some questions for the witness. Very well, Ms. von Karma. Go right ahead. (This should be interesting...)-CROSS-EXAMINATION-
What I saw That's when I saw that Freeman gal walking through! And boy, she sure looked mad! I don't think she even noticed me, she was so mad.  How can you be sure it was Mrs. Maria Freeman? I'm sure of it! I have a pretty good memory for faces, you know. But you've clearly never met this woman before this incident. And if she didn't notice you, how could you possibly be close enough for a positive identification? Hey now! I'm a Giant! I've got a better vantage point than you little humans do. "Little"?! Besides, that's her sitting in that chair over there, right? It was definitely her! But that's impossible! Mrs. Maria Freeman was in police custody at the time! Well, geez, I dunno what to tell you, because I know what I saw. I'm pretty good at recognizing people, and that was definitely her. It's not the first time an impostor has taken on the exact form of the one they choose to frame. ...Rrngh! (...Still, though... the exact form...?) Hmph! Next question, then. --- And there's a lot of little critters running around that area, y'know? So one of them tried to attack her, but she shot at it with this super noisy Bolt spell before it could even reach her. Knocked it out in one blow! Could you describe this "noisy Bolt spell"? Uh... like a noisy Bolt spell? It didn't look like any element I recognized, and it was all blue. And it made this super loud crackly noise when she was casting it. Kind of like Lightning, but more... weird. And it made the same noise when I used Light on it, didn't it? Yeah! It sounded a lot like that, just more, I dunno, forceful? And you're absolutely certain that the aura Mr. Gregory Edgeworth scanned is the same aura from this attack? Of course I am! We Giants have excellent memory, unlike those forgetful Elves! She described the person she saw as Maria Freeman, and the aura we found was extremely similar to the one found at the Freemans' home, which you confirmed to match Mrs. Freeman herself. I think it's safe to say it's the right one. Hmph! How foolishly you provide possibilities without ever once providing proof! How do you know this person wasn't a relative of Mrs. Maria Freeman's who happens to have a similar aura, for example? So what, she has a twin sister? Perhaps. The records claim that Mrs. Maria Freeman had no siblings, but it is possible the records are incorrect. You realize this would just support my theory that an impostor was involved, don't you? What I'm saying is that you cannot prove that this other aura is even relevant. It is similar to the aura we found at the Freeman residence, but not an exact match. Just because the ability to alter auras supposedly exists, that doesn't mean it's the only explanation for this. ... (The fact that the aura was Tainted would be proof enough, if Tainted magic were common knowledge...) So tell me, then! What proof do you have that this Maria Freeman look-alike has anything to do with the murder? (Most of my evidence only makes sense in the context of Mr. Freeman's history, but I'm not supposed to talk about that. There must be something I can present to convince her...)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- *sighs, shaking head* No, you're right... I don't have proof. What?! Mr. Edgeworth, you can't give up! I never said I was. Ms. von Karma, I might not have exact proof, but there's a thing known as reasonable doubt. What are you— If you'll recall, this isn't the first suspicious thing I've pointed out about this murder. Earlier in, we established that Mrs. Freeman went to the gardening shop and bought some bulbs. She had them with her at the time of the arrest, but was not reported to have them at the time of the murder. You dismissed it, saying she was trying to validate her alibi.  ...Yes, that's right. Nevermind that we're talking about the same woman who murdered her husband on the front lawn, where she could easily be seen? ... On the other hand, just earlier, you suggested that maybe the Mrs. Freeman at the gardening store was the impostor... Mrs. Freeman's long lost twin sister, as you describe it. But she spoke to someone she knows very well—Ms. Daisy, the store's owner. Don't you think that Ms. Daisy would know Mrs. Freeman well enough to give a positive identification of her? You don't know that— And now we find an aura that suspiciously matches Mrs. Freeman's, from after she was arrested. Again, you dismiss it, claiming that this same twin sister just so happened to be in the general vicinity of their house shortly after the murder occurred. And you honestly expect us to believe this?! ...! Hm... I have to agree. That is rather hard to believe...  Yeah! Sounds like something out of a bad novel if you ask me! Hmph! You know your argument is no less ludicrous, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth! How so? Evidence! Mrs. Maria Freeman's fingerprints were found on the murder weapon! As was her aura! And your foolish attempts to dispute this are that an impostor somehow managed to take her exact form, mimicking her exact aura, using some type of advanced illusion magic that has only been recorded... how many times? Twice, to my knowledge. That has only been recorded twice in written history? With not a single scrap of evidence to back up your foolishly foolish argument? Just face it, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth—this is a land of the unbelievable, and calling attention to it doesn't change anything until you show me some evidence to back up your ridiculous claims! *Contemplative mutterings can be heard from the gallery* She does have a point... although I can't deny the possibility of the type of magic you describe existing, I have only seen it twice before. Are you sure you don't have any other evidence to support your claims, Mr. Edgeworth? ... ... ... ...Mr. Edgeworth? ... *looks over at Maria* ... ...Only twice before, right? In two connected cases, wasn't it? Er... yes, that's right. Why do you ask? I think this one might be connected, too. And I can prove it. What?! (I didn't really want to show this to the court, but it might be my only chance...)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- This was also found in the Freemans' bedroom. ...A letter. Oh? It's all crumpled up... Yes. It was in the garbage bin. It looks like the victim was working on this, but abandoned it. Based on my understanding of these other two cases you mention, I think you'll find the name at the top interesting... ...! Oh my! What? What does it say? This letter... it's addressed to one of those cases' victims! What?! But this... this looks like a confession... ...That it does, Your Honor. A... a confession?! Huh? A confession of what?  It doesn't say, however... there was a case Ray Venn was looking into, shortly before he was killed. ...Did you say Bourne Freeman wrote this? I haven't analyzed the writing to be certain, but... I believe so, yes. *seems deeply troubled as he thinks on this* ...I see... ... ... At any rate, for the sake of this case, I think the most important thing to take from this is the fact that this letter was in the Freemans' garbage at all. After all, this Ray Venn was killed by someone who used this advanced illusion magic, wasn't he? He was. You're right, Mr. Edgeworth... seeing this, I find it very plausible that these cases are connected. S-so you're saying...?! Yes. I find Mr. Edgeworth's claims to be very believable. *More muttering from the gallery* Way to go, Mr. Edgeworth! (Finally, this case is starting to turn around.) Th-this... this is ridiculous! You foolishly foolish fool! Sorry, Ms. von Karma, but I don't think I'm the one who's been fooled here. Why you—! *bangs gavel* Order! Ms. von Karma, please remain calm. ... I do find Mr. Edgeworth's story very possible. Not yet proven, but possible. On that note, there is one more thing: if Mrs. Freeman didn't kill her husband, then who did? ...Well, I do have one more witness who might be able to shed some light on the matter. Oh? Does that mean this witness can be dismissed? Who the what now? Hmph! I have no further questions, anyway. Ms. Roanne, you may now leave. Oh, okay. Well, let me know if you need anything else! *heads off* *sighs* This next witness is a woman who claims to... er... have known the victim. *raises eyebrow* ...Oh? We met her during the investigation, and I think it's only fair we hear her side of the story. That said... the defense would like to summon Ms. Sylvia Tang to the stand. To be continued... |
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Post by PFA on Feb 5, 2014 13:38:48 GMT -5
*Before long, Sylvia is brought to the witness stand, where she waits, looking almost bored* ... Please state your name and occupation for the record of the court. Sylvia Tang. I'm a bounty hunter. A bounty hunter...? That's right, big boy. When someone's got a bounty on their head and they need to be stopped... I'm the one to call. I... see. Mr. Edgeworth claimed that you were acquainted with Bourne Freeman? "Acquainted"? Oh, we were much more than that. Bourne was my boyfriend. *Surprised mutterings from the gallery* So that would make you the woman that Mr. Bourne Freeman was having an affair with, correct? I guess so. Quite a bold move on your part, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth. Doesn't this only hurt your case? I think all will be made clear in time, Ms. von Karma. So... you know about your, ah, boyfriend's murder, then? Mostly what Mr. Edgeworth told me. Of course. Do you think you could testify about your involvement in this case? I don't know what good it would do, but since you bothered to drag me all the way out here, why not? (I think she knows a lot more than she says she does... and I'm going to prove it.)-TESTIMONY-
My involvement I didn't even know about the murder until Mr. Edgeworth told me about it. Though honestly, I'm not all that surprised. Bourne would often talk about his wife. About how he hoped she would never find out about us... she'd be so furious, he'd say. I guess he wasn't kidding. Shot in the heart... what a shame. --- ...This definitely supports the prosecution's claim that Mr. Freeman was having an affair. How convenient. After all that effort to prove his client innocent, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth decides to give in to the inevitable. I'm not giving in to anything! Your Honor, I'd like to cross-examine this testimony, if that's alright. I'd certainly like to hear a good reason for you bringing a witness so contrary to your argument, yes. (Well, here goes nothing...)-CROSS-EXAMINATION-
My involvement I didn't even know about the murder until Mr. Edgeworth told me about it. Though honestly, I'm not all that surprised. <Press> You didn't hear about it at all? Even though Mr. Freeman was your boyfriend? It's not like I follow every detail of his life. I mean, that would be weird, right? ... Besides, I have my own business to attend to. Even for a case where a famous guy like you comes out of the clouds to defend, I don't have the time to pay attention to every little bit of gossip. (How would she even know there's gossip if she's not paying attention to it?) But anyway, the point is, I didn't hear about it until you told me. But really, I'm not that surprised... --- Bourne would often talk about his wife. About how he hoped she would never find out about us... she'd be so furious, he'd say. <Press> So he would talk to you about his wife? Didn't that ever bother you? ... (Now that is definitely anger.) What does that even have to do with this case? I don't think that's very relevant. (I don't know, maybe it is.) What matters is that I knew she'd be furious if she found out... and apparently she did. --- I guess he wasn't kidding. Shot in the heart... what a shame. How did you know he'd been shot in the heart? I don't remember telling you that. Uh, I've heard about it since then? There's been a lot of gossip about this case, you know. But earlier you testified that you didn't know anything about this case. Until you told me about it. Then I looked into it. Geez, for someone who's supposed to be so smart, you sure are slow. *bangs gavel* Order! Please remain civil, witness. Oh, right. I forgot that insulting the Angels was off-limits. (Excuse me?) But yeah, I've heard about it since you told me, so I know a few details. Shot with his own gun, neighbor saw it, basic stuff. (There must be something else I can ask her...)<Ask what she knows> Can you explain in detail what you know of what happened? Uh, basically what I just told you? His wife met him on the front lawn after he got home from an errand. There was an argument, and she shot him with his own gun, while his neighbor watched the whole thing. ..."After he got home from an errand"? I don't think I've ever heard this mentioned before. What errand was this? What, you expect me to know? I don't know, maybe I heard wrong. For the record, it is likely that Bourne Freeman was out and about just prior to the murder, allowing Mrs. Maria Freeman to investigate her husband's secret affair while he was away. No witnesses could confirm it, but I found it to be a trivial detail, and did not investigate further. I actually find that a bit odd. It was never brought up in the trial, and yet you made a point of bringing it up. Hey, I heard all my news through the grapevine. Sometimes details get messed up along the way, you know? She does have a point. It's not that unusual for untrue details to be added upon the retelling of a story. (...I guess he's right.) You mentioned their neighbor. Do you know her? Not really. Some old lady, right? (Well, that is an accurate—if impolite—description of Mrs. Duval...) Bourne mentioned her sometimes, though I don't think they were that well acquainted. I've never met her myself, of course. But I don't really see what any of this has to do with the murder. ... (Well, that wasn't very helpful...) So you know that it was his own gun, huh? Yeah, a lot of people bring that up. Did you know he had a gun? Of course I did. That boy had deadly aim. And so does his wife, apparently. ... What? What's with the weird look? ...If I may ask... how, exactly, did you know the victim, Ms. Tang? He was my boyfriend, remember? We've known each other for years, even longer than he knew his wife, I'd wager. We used to go out on romantic dates to the shooting range. I... see. So if you've really known him for that long, surely you know about the enchantment on that gun, right? ...! ...Witness? That, uh... of course I know about the enchantment. Why wouldn't I? Bourne was a really powerful mage, once. Is that so? You've tested the gun already, right? It's his aura on the gun. Actually, I was more curious about your use of the word "once." ... As far as I know, mages don't usually lose their magical ability. Are you implying that Bourne Freeman... did? ... Heh. Aren't you being just a little bit hasty, there, Mr. Edgeworth? ... It's really not all that unusual. Mages who are out of practice tend to get a little rusty. So, to be clear on what you mean, you're saying that Bourne Freeman had access to powerful magic, but had not used it in some time. Is this correct? That's right. Such a shame, too. He never should have given it up. (What an interesting choice of phrasing...) I have a question of my own, then, if I may ask. Go ahead, Ms. von Karma. You say you were aware of the enchantment on the weapon. Do you happen to know what the enchantment did? ...And why do you ask? Our magic specialists were unable to determine the exact nature of the enchantment. As best as they could tell, it would only affect spirits, and as such, would not have affected the victim at all. However, if it did have some effect on him, and if Mrs. Maria Freeman was aware it would do this, it may increase the weight of this already very weighty crime. ... Is that so? (What does that expression mean?) *seems to think on this for a while* ... Well, in that case, I guess I'd better tell you. Just as a fair warning, though, you're not going to like it. *frowns at this* ...Oh really? Well then, would you please testify as to the nature of the enchantment on the weapon? Sure. Brace yourselves. (I've got a bad feeling about this...)-TESTIMONY-
The enchantment The enchantment itself is designed to harm spirits. Pretty simple, right? But like I said, Bourne was a very powerful mage. One of the best of his kind, even. So it's very possible that the enchantment would have killed him and destroyed his spirit at the same time. --- Wh... what?! That can't be! Th-that's impossible! I wouldn't be too quick to assume it isn't. After all, isn't that why Ms. Fey is here? ...! I mean, don't ask me, because I wouldn't know, but I'm just guessing that you've been having trouble contacting him. Am I right? Y... yes... *Horrified mutterings from the gallery* This is indeed a very disturbing turn of events. Simultaneously killing a man and destroying his spirit... do such powerful enchantments truly exist? ...I have some questions about this testimony, if I may. I imagine so. Please proceed with your cross-examination, Mr. Edgeworth. (This testimony can't be the truth... it doesn't make sense. And I'm going to prove it.)-CROSS-EXAMINATION-
The enchantment The enchantment itself is designed to harm spirits. Pretty simple, right? <Press> How exactly is this enchantment you describe "simple"?! The enchantment itself is meant to harm spirits. That's a pretty standard enchantment these days. But it also uses some very powerful magic, you see. So the effect is amplified... resulting in the effect I just described. ... (Are you sure about that, Ms. Tang?)--- But like I said, Bourne was a very powerful mage. One of the best of his kind, even. <Press> ..."One of the best of his kind"? You got a problem with that? I admit I'm curious, myself. What exactly do you mean by "his kind"? ... I'm sure you've noticed by now, right? The magic on the gun isn't normal magic. By extension, that means that Bourne Freeman wasn't a normal mage. You sure know a lot about this unusual magic of his. I don't suppose you could tell us any more about it? That's not really important, is it? All that matters is he was a powerful mage who enchanted his own gun... and what the enchantment did. --- So it's very possible that the enchantment would have killed him and destroyed his spirit at the same time. <Press> That... that's impossible, isn't it? I wouldn't be so sure. After all, killing someone and simultaneously harming their spirit isn't entirely unheard of. Why don't you ask your son about it sometime? ... What? Y-you don't know anything about that! Maybe, maybe not. That's just a little rumor I heard once. Like I said, you'd have to ask him. ... (I'm just going to pretend that conversation didn't happen...)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- The enchantment itself is designed to harm spirits. Pretty simple, right? I have a problem with your testimony, Ms. Tang! Oh? Is the truth too much for you to take, Mr. Edgeworth? Well, actually, it's more of a contradiction. ...What? You claim that the enchantment on the gun is designed to harm spirits... but we already know that that isn't true. As Ms. von Karma told us earlier, the magic specialists had trouble identifying the enchantment. However... --- For one thing, you still haven't told us what this mysterious enchantment does. I don't see how such information would be helpful to you, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth, but I will present it for completeness. The magic specialists described it as a type of stunning spell. --- Now maybe I don't know much about magic, but if it really were as simple as a more powerful equivalent of the spirit-harming enchantment... wouldn't they be able to tell? And not be penning it as a stunning spell? ...! Hm... he's right. I find it very hard to believe that such a simple enchantment could be mistaken for a stun spell. Perhaps this witness was mistaken? Perhaps the victim did not tell her exactly what the enchantment does. I'd agree with you, Ms. von Karma, if there weren't an element of truth to her story. ...What? Ms. Tang, just a while ago, you said something that implies a certain degree of knowledge about this matter. You implied that Ms. Fey here had come to this trial because the victim's spirit can't be contacted... which is entirely true. So I have to wonder: how, exactly, did you know that? Well... uh... maybe I've heard about it. That's not so strange, is it? It isn't impossible. While the details of the victim's unknown status have not been officially released to the public, I know for a fact that there have been rumors. Sorry, but there's more. Mainly, if that's not really what the enchantment does, why would you assume that in the first place? For that matter, why even bring it up if you weren't absolutely sure? Uh... well... I think you do know what the enchantment does. But for one reason or another, you lied. You asked me if the truth is too much to take, well... Is the truth too much to tell?!  ...Nrk! *muttermutter* *bangs gavel* Order! Order in the court! Witness! Do you or do you not know the nature of the weapon's enchantment? ...Really now. Aren't you all getting a little ahead of yourselves? Just because some nerds who study magic readings all day say the spell looked like a stun spell, doesn't mean that's what it was. So then what does it do? Exactly what I said. It hurts spirits. Maybe I don't know the exact specifics of how it works. Does it really matter? I mean, it's not like we can ask the guy who put it there. ... (Are you sure you still can't contact the victim, Maya?)
(I'm sure! I've been trying with no luck...) I stand by what I said. I mean, what reason would I have to lie about something like this? Hm... if you really are telling the truth, and the killer was aware of this enchantment... that would be a very grave crime, indeed. Exactly. I couldn't just let it go unsaid. ... Is that so? ...What? What's with the look? Maybe this is just me... but it's starting to look like you have a very big reason for trying to strengthen the sentence in this trial. What are you talking about? I am of course talking about this! --- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... ---  You've repeatedly said that Mr. Freeman was your boyfriend. But he was married. Which means that there is one person who would be a huge threat to you personally. Maria Freeman. ...! What are you saying, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth? I would think it was obvious. After all, isn't that the classic love story? A couple trying to escape the vengeful wife? And what does this have to do with anything, if I may ask? I would think that was obvious, too. Obviously someone like you would have a vested interest in getting rid of Mrs. Freeman for a very, very long time. You might even go to such lengths as committing perjury just to have her convicted! I would think you above such foolish accusations, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth! Do you even realize the fundamental flaw in that argument? And what is that? I would think it obvious. Your story implies this woman's desire is to get rid of Maria Freeman, so that she and Bourne Freeman can live happily together ever after. Have you already forgotten that Bourne Freeman is dead?! Of course not. I think what you're forgetting is that Mrs. Freeman is currently on trial for the murder of her husband. Why would I forget about that?! I'm the prosecutor! *bangs gavel* Order! Mr. Edgeworth, can you please get to the point before we have to recapitulate the entire trial? The point is, there's another very obvious reason why Ms. Tang here would want her boyfriend's wife and supposed killer given the harshest sentence possible. Revenge. What?! This woman has heard the unfortunate news that her boyfriend had, in theory, been shot, by the one woman who she no doubt resented to begin with—his wife. How do you think she would feel about something like that? That... That argument is even more foolish than the last one!! As much as I hate to agree, Mr. Edgeworth... wouldn't that imply that your client is guilty? I never said it was the truth, nor do I believe it's the whole story. But as long as she believed it was, that's enough for a motive. Isn't that right, Ms. von Karma? You— nnrgh! *muttermutter* Hm... you know, he does have a point. I'm not certain how reliable this witness' testimony is... What do you have to say for yourself, Ms. Tang? Oh, are you done? I was having too much fun watching the show. (...What is she smiling about?) You know, it's funny, really. You're spending all this time arguing over these basic case details, and all the while, you seem to have forgotten the most important thing. ...And what would that be? I'm your witness, Mr. Edgeworth. Why are you trying to discredit my testimony? Isn't that pretty counterintuitive? ...Since when has any of your testimony so far been useful to me, Ms. Tang? You've spent the entire time arguing for the prosecution. Yeah, which makes me wonder why you even brought me here. I don't know if you're aware of it, but you've been spending all this time describing your close personal relationship with a man who has almost no records, and an apparently disturbed past which we've only know of from fragments of disjointed information. It leads me to believe that maybe you know who really killed Bourne Freeman, and you won't tell us the truth. ... So are we going to have to keep playing this game, or are you going to testify? ... Heh. Now isn't that an interesting accusation. Ms. Tang? You want to play it that way, huh? Fine, then. Let's tango. To be continued... |
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Post by PFA on Feb 12, 2014 2:11:40 GMT -5
I don't want to dance, Ms. Tang. I just want you to tell the truth. You're on a very slippery slope, you know. You'd better watch your step... or you might fall. ... -TESTIMONY-
What I really know Why are you so insistent on proving that there's some kind of conspiracy? Sounds to me like you're getting desperate. I know nothing more about this case than I've already told you. Just hearsay. That's it. Maybe Bourne didn't have many records. So what? Neither do I. Hate to break it to you, Mr. Lawyer, but some of us hate paperwork. Bourne's magic was just this rare type of magic he decided to learn once. That's not weird, is it? Maria Freeman deliberately sent her husband to his eternal destruction. There's really nothing more to say. --- That's a very... er... straightforward testimony. I'm a bounty hunter, big boy. I don't beat around the bush. (No, I'm pretty sure you do... because you're still lying.) I see... well then. Mr. Edgeworth, did you have anything else to say to this witness? I sure do, Your Honor. I have a few questions. Alright. You may proceed with the cross-examination... I hope for your sake that you know what you're doing. (Just keep going until you reach the truth... it's the only way.)-TESTIMONY-
What I really know Why are you so insistent on proving that there's some kind of conspiracy? Sounds to me like you're getting desperate. <Press> I think you're the one who's getting desperate, Ms. Tang! Really? Because I'm not the one making childish retorts, if you catch my drift. (Well, I'm not the one calling my elders "childish.") If you have something to say, say it in evidence. Isn't that how you lawyer types work? Of course, not that it would matter either way... --- I know nothing more about this case than I've already told you. Just hearsay. That's it. <Press> I have reason to doubt that, Ms. Tang! Are you sure? I hate to break it to you, but you lawyers aren't very good at keeping things under wraps. Word gets out. H-hey! Take that back!  I have no reason to take back the truth. (It's hard to take back the truth when you won't tell us the truth in the first place...)--- Maybe Bourne didn't have many records. So what? Neither do I. Hate to break it to you, Mr. Lawyer, but some of us hate paperwork. <Press> To the point of foregoing records altogether?! You'd be surprised. People will do crazy things to get out of having to do their paperwork. I can't imagine how you legal types deal with it all the time. (...Admittedly, it is nice not having to deal with that anymore...)--- Bourne's magic was just this rare type of magic he decided to learn once. That's not weird, is it? <Press> How did he discover this rare kind of magic? The magic specialists said they'd never seen anything like it before. Does that really matter? Maybe he read about it in an old book, or maybe he stumbled upon it by chance. Who knows? So do you mean to tell us that he wasn't the only one with this unique type of magic, then? ... And if that's the case, is it possible that he learned it from someone? Is this relevant? I don't think this is relevant. (I don't know, you're getting awfully hostile about it...)--- Maria Freeman deliberately sent her husband to his eternal destruction. There's really nothing more to say. ... That's an oddly specific thing to say. What do you mean? You just told us that Mrs. Freeman destroyed her husband's spirit deliberately. Now why would you say that? Isn't it obvious? She had to know about the enchantment. I mean, there's no other way she could have used it. Really. And how do you know that? Isn't it obvious? An enchantment that powerful has to be activated. It... what? The enchantment won't work at all until it's charged with energy. And we already know that Bourne's spirit is gone. That means she had to have activated it... ...Doesn't it? *Surprised mutterings from the gallery* Wha... why didn't you bring this up before?! Sorry. Guess I just forgot. This is startling news... you're saying that the killer charged the murder weapon with energy before the murder? It's the only way for this to have happened. I'm sure you'd find Maria's aura in the house if you looked... We did find Mrs. Maria Freeman's aura inside the house, just in front of the drawer where Bourne Freeman kept his gun. Are you saying this is the energy she used to charge the weapon? It has to be. That's the only way. Hm... it does seem likely... ... (Now what was that you just said, Ms. Tang?)--- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- I know nothing more about this case than I've already told you. Just hearsay. That's it. You're obviously lying to us, Ms. Tang! Now what makes you say that? I am, of course, talking about this. The magic reading found in the Freemans' bedroom. And that's relevant... how? Do you realize what you said just now, Ms. Tang? You told us that we'd be able to find Mrs. Freeman's aura in her house, which she used to charge the weapon. And we did. But how could you possibly know that? Have you forgotten already? I knew about the enchantment on the gun. Maria had to charge it in order for the enchantment to take effect. There'd have to be an aura. Normally, I'd buy that... but you specified that the aura was in the house. ... Now maybe this is just me, but if I'd heard this information out of context, I would sooner guess that she charged the weapon just before the attack. In other words, at the scene of the crime... outside of the house. So why would you so definitively say that it was in the house? Unless you knew about the aura ahead of time! ...Ah! Maybe someone mentioned the aura when talking about the case! Sorry, but no. First off, that little detail only came up in the trial today. I find it unlikely that anyone knew about that part of the investigation ahead of time; after all, that's a police investigation, and the general public isn't allowed knowledge of that. ... And even so... Ms. Tang said that we "would" find the aura if we looked. Implying that she had no idea about that part of the investigation. Which means she could have only known about that piece of information if she were at the crime scene. Wh... what?! *More surprised mutters from the gallery* Hm... I have to agree. It's possible that she could have heard most of the case details, but this is starting to look more implausible. Y-you don't know what you're talking about! I could have guessed that she charged the weapon inside! Or maybe it was a slip of the tongue, don't you ever think about that? Why the hypothetical, Ms. Tang? Aren't you sure of what you meant? Your argument is stupid! If I was really inside the house, then how did I get in? I don't have a key, you know. And I know Bourne wasn't stupid enough to keep the door unlocked. Do you even have to ask? If Mr. Freeman really was your boyfriend, he could have let you in. Sorry, but no. What time did that magic readout say, 11:30? Bourne wasn't home. He couldn't have let me in. How do you know that— His neighbors said he was on an errand, okay? Apparently Maria met him on the front lawn, and that's where the murder happened. For the record, it is assumed that the victim was not at his home prior to the murder. As Ms. Tang said, several of his neighbors testified as such. Hm... then it would seem that the victim could not have let his girlfriend inside... Unless you have any proof otherwise, Mr. Edgeworth? *shakes head* No, I don't. However, it doesn't matter. ...Excuse me? Whether or not Mr. Freeman was home, someone still could have gotten inside! --- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- The Freemans' bedroom has a single window in it. The thing about that window... the lock on it is broken. Broken? How so? It doesn't work at all. Even when it's supposed to be locked, the window can still be opened. Which means that somebody could have easily gotten in through the window! ...! Hmph! What a foolishly uninformed argument I would not expect from a famous attorney like yourself, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth! The prosecution did a thorough forensics investigation in that bedroom, including from the window. There were only one set of fingerprints on that window. Do you know whose they were? ...Whose would those be, Ms. von Karma? The only fingerprints found on that window belonged to the defendant. ! That's right. The only one who ever opened that window was Mrs. Maria Freeman herself. The prints were very clear, as well—not smudged in any way by glove prints or anything of the sort. What do you have to say about that, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth?! Well... maybe she wiped the fingerprints off of the window? And then Mrs. Freeman opened the window afterwards? At which point you should realize the flaw in your own argument! If we go by your story, Mrs. Maria Freeman was at the gardening store the entire time during the murder. Is this correct? Well... yes. In which case, she would have had no opportunity to open the window. Because as soon as she got back home, she was arrested on the spot for her husband's murder! ...! So tell me, Mr. Gregory Edgeworth! Do you have some other miraculous way this woman could have gotten into the house? A portal, perhaps? Well, that won't work either, because we did a very thorough scan of the home, and there were no signs of portals! Heh. See? Ms. von Karma here knows what she's talking about. There's no way I could have gotten into that house. It's impossible. ... (Everything at the scene of the crime gave a positive identification for Mrs. Freeman. Her aura... her appearance... even her fingerprints. And yet I know that it wasn't her. But can it really be possible? Is it possible to be that thorough...?) ...Well, Mr. Edgeworth? ...I think... it's still possible. Oh really now? Well, this ought to be entertaining. I'm not sure, but... it's becoming increasingly clear to me that the person who did this has to be a shapeshifter. ...! A shapeshifter? Well, if you think about it... there appear to have been two Mrs. Freemans involved in this case. One at the gardening store, and the other at her house. But that's not possible... unless there were two of her that day. You can't seriously be suggesting that this woman is capable of shapeshifting into someone else's form in such perfect detail! I mean, even her fingerprints?! Y-yeah, are you kidding? That kind of detail would take serious talent. I don't know. We've already seen some things thought to be impossible in this courtroom... isn't that right, Your Honor? Huh? What? As I recall, you were the one who told us... --- Actually... this wouldn't be the first time I've heard of this. There were two recent cases of illusionists who possessed the ability to alter their own aura. --- Yes, that's right... there were people who had the ability to change their aura to look like someone else's. ...Enough to fool the magic specialists, even. So then, if there are people who can do a perfect aura imitation, then wouldn't it be reasonable to assume that—if a shapeshifter had a similar ability—they could do a perfect transformation, as well. !!! Hm... that would make a certain degree of sense. What do you have to say for yourself, Ms. Tang? I... uh... I... (This is it. I think I've got her on the ropes now...) This... this is stupid! You keep making assumptions without any proof! I mean... are you saying that I have the ability to alter my aura now? You have to be kidding me. I mean, Bourne was the mage, not me. ...Bourne? My boyfriend? The victim? Surely you haven't forgotten. No, what I mean is... do you mean to tell us that the victim, Bourne Freeman... did have this ability?  ...!! I think it's obvious that he did, Your Honor. After all, the aura on his weapon couldn't be detected until it came into contact with Light. That said, Ms. Tang... perhaps you'd like to help prove a theory of mine? A... a theory? I'm fairly certain that this type of magic comes from someone's aura. Meaning, if someone with this type of magic were to come into contact with Angel's Light, there would be a reaction. So if you do have this ability... Wh-what?! No way! Using Angel's Light on me? I won't agree to that! That's invasive! It will only take a moment. And it won't hurt. How do you know that?! If I did have that kind of magic, it probably would hurt! Your Honor? Hm... I'll allow it. Just be careful. Thank you. *walks up to the witness' stand, hand glowing with Light* Hold still, please.  Aah—! *CH-JHHHHKKKKKKT!* *after a moment, pulls his hand back, as it stops glowing* ...Looks like I was right. Oh my. So you were... *grits teeth, recovering from the shock* Ngh... s-so maybe I have magic. So what? That doesn't mean I killed Bourne! That was Maria! I don't think so. As you just demonstrated, an aura like yours reacts under Angel's Light. However, if we were to check Mrs. Freeman's aura... *walks over to the defendant's seat, doing the same thing for Maria* *no reaction* Th-that... that's impossible! As you can see, Mrs. Freeman's aura doesn't react in the same way to Angel's Light as the aura found at the crime scene did. Which tells us that the one who killed Bourne Freeman was not his wife. And since you've so clearly demonstrated knowledge of the murder, Ms. Tang... *points at Sylvia* I think it was you! *Noisy muttering echoes through the courtroom as Gregory makes his way back to the defense's bench* *bangs gavel* Order! Order in the court! Ms. Tang, I'd say the defense's argument is starting to look more and more likely. What do you have to say for yourself? This... this... this is insane! -TESTIMONY-
Last attempt All you have are possibilities! You don't have any proof! I mean, I'm a shapeshifter? With magic? You don't have any way to prove that! And so what if I have the same type of magic as Bourne did? It's not like I'm the only one who does. Did you ever consider that? And besides that, why would I kill Bourne? He was my boyfriend! I-I loved him! You can't just accuse me like that! Y-you don't know what you're doing! --- Witness, please try to remain calm. Remain calm?! You expect me to be calm when I'm being accused of murder?! ...Hmm. Well, Mr. Edgeworth? I'd like to cross-examine this testimony, if I may. Very well. Go ahead. (This is it, Gregory. It's time to put an end to this.)-TESTIMONY-
Last attempt All you have are possibilities! You don't have any proof! <Press> They're pretty strong possibilities if you ask me! Maybe, but that's all there is. Why don't you show some actual proof for once? (I thought I already had, but if you insist...)--- I mean, I'm a shapeshifter? With magic? You don't have any way to prove that! <Press> But we already proved that you have magic. And you admitted it! W-well, maybe, but a shapeshifter? I mean... what kind of creatures even have that ability these days? (..."These days"?) It's all just conjecture. You don't have any proof. You can't prove that! --- And so what if I have the same type of magic as Bourne did? It's not like I'm the only one who does. Did you ever consider that? <Press> So you know someone else who has this ability? I don't suppose you could tell us who—  * slams the desk, eyes flashing* Don't even go there, Gregory Edgeworth. ! (What just happened? She started to look like a demon for a moment, there...) It doesn't matter who I know or who I don't. All that matters is it's not fair to single me out like this! --- And besides that, why would I kill Bourne? He was my boyfriend! I-I loved him! <Press> Maybe it was an argument gone wrong? D-do you honestly think I would send a man to the abyss over a stupid disagreement?! Don't be ridiculous! (..."To the abyss"?) I may be a bounty hunter, but I don't kill people who look at me funny. That's not my style. (I have a pretty good idea why she really killed him, but I'm getting the feeling that there's something else going on here...)--- You can't just accuse me like that! Y-you don't know what you're doing! <Press> I'm not "just" accusing you, and I know full well what I'm doing. *eyes flash* No. No you don't. ...? A-anyway, just because I supposedly know too much doesn't mean I killed Bourne! --- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- And besides that, why would I kill Bourne? He was my boyfriend! I-I loved him! Actually, Ms. Tang... I think that's exactly the reason why. Or at least part of it. Wh-what?! You've testified several times to the fact that Bourne Freeman was your boyfriend. I don't think you're lying. However... I think your story is backwards. B... backwards? There was something I noticed when I visited the Freemans' house yesterday. There was a picture frame that was broken. And what's so odd about that? Maybe it was dropped. No, it definitely looked like it was broken deliberately. Of course, that only matters when you consider what picture was in that picture frame... A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, happily together. ... According to Mrs. Freeman, she could not remember this picture frame being broken, implying that it was broken by the killer. Which seemed a bit odd to me—it seemed a little over the top for someone pretending to be Mrs. Freeman to do something like that. However, it makes perfect sense for a jealous ex-girlfriend. ...Ah! Are you saying that this witness killed her ex-boyfriend, destroyed his spirit, and tried to have his wife convicted for his murder, out of nothing more than rejection jealousy?! Why is that strange? I thought you were arguing that Mrs. Freeman shot her husband because he was cheating on her. That's not the same thing! For your story to be true, this woman had to go plan out this crime in meticulous detail, just to annihilate the man who broke up with her presumably over a year ago! Why go through all the trouble just for that?! I think you're underestimating the power of revenge, Ms. von Karma. Some people can do terrible things for surprisingly minor slights... and I would know. What... How dare you bring that up! (Oops... I probably shouldn't have said that.) *clears throat, quickly changing subject* A-anyway, that aside, I don't think that's the only reason for Ms. Tang to commit this murder. What?! I don't know what exactly happened, but I think Bourne Freeman did something that put him on your watchlist... miss bounty hunter. ...!! Her... watchlist? ...Do I really need to remind you, Your Honor? ...! D-do you mean...?! That's right. I'm talking about this! --- (Court Record)Evidence Attorney's Badge - My attorney's badge. I haven't taken a case since Miles' case last year... Bourne's Autopsy Report - Died at around noon, August 28th. COD: Shot in the heart with a pistol. Receipt - Receipt from Daisy's Daisies. Proves that Mrs. Freeman was at this gardening store at 11:30AM. Pistol - The murder weapon. Belonged to the victim. Charged with Tainted magic, most likely by the killer. Has an enchantment on it that supposedly stuns spirits. Bulbs - A bag full of gardening bulbs. Mrs. Freeman had it with her at the time of her arrest. Broken Frame - A picture of Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, found at their house. The frame has been broken. Broken Window - The window in the Freemans' bedroom. The lock is broken; killer may have gotten in through here. Unfinished Letter - An unfinished letter found crumpled in the Freemans' trash. Appears to be a confession of some kind to someone named Ray Venn. Magic Readings - An assortment of magic readings related to the case. ( Scan 1, scan 2, scan 3, scan 4, scan 5, scan 6) --- Profiles Maria Freeman - The defendant in this case. She wanted me to take her case so I could track down the Tainted magic of her accuser with Angel's Light. Bourne Freeman - The victim, and the defendant's husband. Formerly belonged to a group of Tainted magic users, but betrayed them to marry Maria. Detective Gumshoe - The detective in charge of this case. Often works with my son on investigations. Franziska von Karma - von Karma's daughter, and, er... Miles' adoptive sister. She's the prosecutor in charge of this case. I don't think she likes me very much. Maya Fey - Mia Fey's little sister. A cheerful spirit medium who has decided to help me for this case. Daisy - Owns a small gardening store called "Daisy's Daisies." Saw Mrs. Freeman at her store on the day of the murder. Susan Duval - The Freemans' neighbor. Witnessed the murder through her living room window. Roanne - A Giant. Saw "Mrs. Freeman" attacking a monster with Tainted magic. Sylvia Tang - A bounty hunter who claims to have been in an affair with Bourne Freeman. Extremely suspicious... --- Take a look at this letter, Ms. Tang. ...? This... this is Bourne's handwriting. But what— !!! Something catch your attention? R-R-R... *aura spikes in rage* Ray Venn?! Eek! Where... where did you get this letter?! In the Freemans' bedroom. It was crumpled up and thrown in the trash. Why, do you know something about this? Bourne... you... IDIOT! This... this is all HER FAULT, isn't it?! Ms. Tang? MARIAAA! None of this would have happened if it weren't for YOU! !! ...This means I'm right, doesn't it? ...!! Here's what I think happened... --- You and Bourne Freeman were a couple. You were happy together, living whatever mysterious lifestyle the two of you lived. But then... something changed. Bourne met Maria, the woman who later became his wife, and he left you for her. Naturally, you were furious.
Later down the line, something came up. Bourne did something that he wasn't supposed to... something that someone determined was cause to have him killed. You were given the opportunity, and you readily accepted it, using it as your opportunity to get back at him for what he did to you.
You pulled out all the stops. You made yourself look like Maria Freeman—all the way down to her aura and even somehow her fingerprints—and went to their house while they were away. Since you didn't have a key, you got in through the window, right into the bedroom, where you found and recharged Bourne's gun. And while you were waiting for him to come home, you found and smashed the picture frame out of frustration.
The murder went just as you planned. Because of your perfect disguise, no one realized that you weren't Maria Freeman. The witness, Mrs. Duval, identified you as her... even the police were fooled. After killing Bourne, you went back into the house, and escaped back out the window... just in time for the real Maria Freeman to return home, and be arrested on the spot for the murder.--- ...Does that sound about right? N-no...! I have to say, it was a brilliant plan. I think we all would have been none the wiser, were it not for two things: one, after you left the scene of the crime, someone saw you as Maria Freeman, attacking a wild critter with magic. The Giant, Roanne. Th-the Giant?! That's right. I wonder, how upset were you that you failed to even notice her? No! And number two, there's something that you never could have counted on happening. ...An Angel took the case. You mean... you, Mr. Edgeworth? *adjusts glasses* ...Yes. Because of the unusual magic Mr. Freeman and Ms. Tang both used. If I hadn't been here to discover that the auras react to Angel's Light, this trial would have ended on the first day. It would have been just another case. But unfortunately for you, Ms. Tang... that didn't happen.  No...! ...Well then. I think it's abundantly clear that there is no need to further prolong this trial. *raises gavel* This court finds the defendant, Maria Freeman... NOT GUILTY As for you, Ms. Tang... you'll be awaiting further trial at a later date. N... n...  NOOOOOOOOO! !  NO! Please, you can't do this to me! Y-you don't understand! Ms. Tang?! H-he... he'll take me! And he'll take you, too! Wh-what...?! Bailiff! *The bailiff quickly puts magic-blocking cuffs on Sylvia*  *aura abruptly fades* N-no! Please, you have to listen to me!  LISTEN TO ME! *Everyone watches in shock as Sylvia is dragged out of the courtroom in hysterics* ... ... ... (What... what just happened? She just got really frightened all of the sudden...) ... Well then. Without further adieu, this court is adjourned! *bangs gavel* ~*~*~ {August 30th, 12:21PM District Courthouse Outside} Wow, Mr. Edgeworth, that was amazing! You really are an expert attorney! Thank you... though I'm a little surprised I actually made it that far. Surprised, ha! You're the great attorney, Gregory Edgeworth! Of course you could do it! I really do have to thank you, Mr. Edgeworth. Y-you saved my life. You're welcome. I'm glad I could help. ...I'm sorry about what I had to say in the trial, though... about your husband. No, it's okay, I understand... I'm sure he would be grateful, too. ... (This poor woman... I saved her life, but her husband is still gone...) It's a little shocking. I had no idea Bourne had a girlfriend before... d-do you think she meant what she said? ...I don't know. (Somehow I have the feeling that this isn't as simple as Mr. Freeman's spirit just being destroyed. Why would the enchantment be a stun spell?) (And what did she mean by "he'll take me"...?) ... Hey, you know what? We just won the case! This calls for celebration! I say we all go out for some nice, juicy burgers! *amused* I guess the day wouldn't be complete without it, would it? Hee hee! Of course! Come on, I know this great burger place! You can come, too, Maria!  That could be nice. Okay. Then let's go! *starts leading the way* *follows* I'm assuming you can pay for them, right? I don't have any money. Um... hm. Usually Nick pays for them. Maybe I'll just put it on his tab! ...I don't think Mr. Wright would appreciate that. *chuckles* It's okay, I can pay for it. Great! I'm telling you guys, you're going to love these burgers. Me and Nick had some last case, and they were amazing! Haha. I can't wait. *They head off into the distance as Maya continues chatting excitedly about burgers* End Case 3 |
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Post by PFA on Feb 13, 2014 2:00:01 GMT -5
Case 3 Epilogues -- Franziska{August 30th, afternoon Prosecutors' Office Franziska's Office} *shuffles through some papers in a drawer, looking for some particular forms* (What a foolishly foolish case! Shapeshifter, indeed...)*there is a knock at the door* "Franziska? Can I come in?" *sigh* Come in, Miles.  *opens the door and steps inside* ...I attended the trial today. Did you now. Yes. ...I, er... I thought you did well, all things considered. Hmph. *finds the form she's looking for, pulling it out and shutting the drawer* I would have thought you'd be speaking with your father. Actually, he's... busy, at the moment. (Having burgers with Ms. Fey, I believe.) ...Don't feel too bad for losing the case. He— Is a legend. I know. *sits down at her desk, starts filling out some paperwork* ... For what it's worth, Franziska, I think you handled it rather well. (...Not really.) (...?) Is... something the matter? Nothing. I'm fine. ... By the way, there's something I was wondering about. I heard this rumor that you've finally discovered your magical talent? ! Wh-who told you that?! Detective Gumshoe, in fact. ...Why, is it not true? *stands, aura rises in panic* Of course it's not true! Scruffy is a liar! Whoa! I-I'm sorry, I just... I thought I heard that, and I know not having magical abilities has been a sore spot for you in the past, and... ...Wait. Is that your aura I sense...? ... *aura starts lowering again* (...He was just asking about the magic, wasn't he?) I... I guess it is. *raises eyebrow* (What else would she think I was asking about?) So... it's true, then? You're a... dark mage. I suppose I am. ... ... I, er... I-I'm sorry if you were disappointed. Disappointed? Why would I be disappointed? I don't care what kind it is; magic is magic. *aura rises again in determination* And now I can finally put up a fight! (She's taking this surprisingly well... if I were in her place, I think I would have been much less enthused.) Well, if you want to fight, I'd suggest you get some proper training. Perhaps from Lee or his father? Yes, of course, I'll look into it. Just as long as I can be where the action is for once! Yes, so you've told me. ...Well, I suppose I should be letting you get back to work. *turns to leave* ... *sits back down with a sigh, continuing filling out the paperwork*
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Post by PFA on Feb 14, 2014 1:56:08 GMT -5
Case 3 Epilogues -- Maria{August 30th, afternoon The Burger Joint} ...I don't know. I just... it's so hard to believe he's really gone. (This poor woman... I can't even imagine what she must be going through right now...) Well... maybe he's not actually gone? I remember we thought Mr. Godot was gone forever that one time, but he came back. I... I don't know. The way Bourne used to speak about it, he made it seem like this has been going on for a really long time. And... as far as I know, no one's ever come back. ... It just... it scares me. How many innocent people have to be hurt like this...? ... You know what? We should find these people and put a stop to this! What?! If people are really going to keep disappearing like this, then... then I just can't stand for it! We have to stop them! I-I don't know... I don't know if it's safe... Of course it's not, but it's worth the risk, isn't it? Maybe tomorrow, you and I can go looking out where Ms. Tang was. Maybe we can find their secret hideout! Are you talking about going into the abandoned part of town? Well, it seems like that's where it would be, right? That sounds pretty dangerous. Do you want me to come with you? Well... if you were obviously there with us, they'd probably notice us right away, and that probably wouldn't end well. But hey, I'm a spirit medium! If anything bad happens, I can call down an army of Angels to defend me! ...I guess that's... something. So what do you say, Maria? M-me? Yeah! You want to stop these people too, right? ...I guess I don't have much to live for anymore... I can help you look. Hooray! We'll show them not to mess with us! Just... be careful, alright? Don't worry, we will. One way or another, though, we will stop this! *determined fistpump* *falls silent, eating her burger in thought* ... *As they continue eating and talking, someone at another table excuses himself, pulling out a phone...*
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Post by PFA on Feb 15, 2014 1:55:39 GMT -5
Case 3 Epilogues -- Gregory{August 30th, later Prosecutors' Office Edgeworth's Office} *sips tea contemplatively as he looks out the window* ... Miles? Are you busy? ! *turns around* No, not at all. *fades in* Alright, because I have something I need to give you. *hands over some documents* Here. ...? *sets down his tea to take the documents* What's this? My case notes from the trial. I can't take them with me to the Spirit World, so I thought you could hold onto them for me. Oh, er... yes, of course. *glances at the notes thoughtfully* ...I attended the trial, by the way. Oh, you did? Yes. You did well. Oh. Well, thank you. Of course. ... ... ...By the way... there was something I was wondering about. Hm? What is it? Maria Freeman... why did she pick you to be her attorney? Oh, er... she knew I'd be able to help with the unique magic that was involved. ...I'm not sure how much I should say about that, actually. *raises eyebrow* ...I see. (That's... rather less than comforting.) *adjusts glasses* Sorry. It's... complicated. Anyway, I should probably be going now. I don't want to interfere with your work. Maybe we can talk more later? ...That's probably fair. I'll call you when I get home. Alright. See you later, Miles. Stay safe. *glows with Light and fades out* ... *sits down, looking at the documents thoughtfully* (I wonder...)
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Post by PFA on Feb 16, 2014 2:00:30 GMT -5
Case 3 Epilogues -- Sylvia{August 30th, evening Taco City Detention Center} ...I can't believe it. I can't believe it! I messed up! I knew I should have never talked to Edgeworth! Why did I have to do that?!
Oh, but now I've messed up... it's all over! I-I'm going to die... even worse, I'm going to be—*Suddenly, the door swings open* !! *immediately snaps to attention* I've got some questions to ask you, pal. Oh no. No no no. You're not gonna make me do this. You bet I am. *sits down* I trust Mr. Edgeworth made the right call, but I gotta make sure we've got all the details, see. Well, you're not getting any more details out of me. I'm not talking. Hey, pal, we can do this the easy way, or the hard way. Which is it gonna be? We're doing this neither way! I'm not stupid! I'm not going to give you any... ...more... information... ...? I... I won't... glk! You okay there, pal? *wavers, turning pale* N-no... please, no...! Uhh... you're not looking so good. I... I... *topples over* *WHUD* Whoa—! ...Sh-she collapsed! Security Officer: What the...?! *runs over to get a better look* HEY! SOMEBODY! We need a doctor in here, stat! Security Officer: N-no way... I think she's dead! Wh-what?! No way, pal! H-how did she...?! *Some other officers run into the room to see what has happened, as Gumshoe stares dumbfounded at the scene. Within moments, it becomes clear that Sylvia is, in fact, dead* ...I'm sorry...
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Post by PFA on Feb 17, 2014 2:00:11 GMT -5
Case 3 Epilogues -- ? ? ?{? ? ?}
Well, well. It looks like things are just about to get interesting.
You poor souls... do you have any idea what you are getting yourselves into? You continue searching for the truth, but you will not like what you find. Deep, dark secrets of the past... the closer you get to the truth, the sooner you will feel the inevitable pain of betrayal.
It is too late now. People are going to die... and there is nothing you can do about it.
I certainly hope you are prepared.
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