Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hope’s Peak Academy is a massive high school that towers over all the buildings in this bustling urban area, making it seem as though this school stands at the center of the entire world. 

A government-funded school of privilege, this academy brings in top students from every field imaginable. 

The school was built to raise hope in the nation’s future…Which makes Hope’s Peak a pretty fitting name. 

There are two things you need to attend this school. First, you must already be attending high school. Second, you have to be the very best at what you do. No ordinary student could enroll here; the only way in is if you’re scouted by the school itself. 

bUt YoU aLrEADy KnEW THaT, diDn’T yoU? 

Puhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhu….

Don’t you think that this is getting repetitive? I mean, how many times can you slog through the same introductions over and over and over and oVEr and OVer and OVER and-

Ahem. 

I can tell you’re getting bored, and that’s totally understandable! Just like you, I can’t wait to get to the good part. 

But as much as I want to skip right ahead to the fun stuff, I have to share some important information with you all.

First things first, this story contains spoilers for both the Ace Attorney and Danganronpa series-  more so on the Ace Attorney games, seeing as this story is all about a carefully selected roster of these characters going through the wondrously despair-ridden experience that is The Killing Games. 

Just keep this in mind- though some characters are canonically convicted criminals, that doesn’t guarantee they’ll all be the Blackened- every character has the same odds of becoming either the victim or the killer. 

And I do mean eVeRY CHaRaCtER.

Isn’t that fun?

Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, let me explain to you how this story is going to work- kind of like a tutorial. Isn’t that so kind and generous of me? 

Anywaaaay, the square brackets are used to reference the “game mechanics.” It’s used when our dear protagonist is thinking something in that big ol’ empty head of his. 

Pretty simple, right? It’s also used to describe all the wacky actions each character does while talking.

Welp, that’s about it for now- other mechanics will be explained later on in the story when they’re more relevant. 

I hope you have a wonderfully despair-ridden experience! 

Chapter Text

My name is Phoenix Wright.

Yesterday, I took on my very first case as a defense attorney: defending my childhood friend, Larry Butz, who had been accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend, a model named Cindy Stone. Despite my inexperience, I not only proved Larry to be innocent, but I also found the true culprit in the very same trial- a man named Frank Sahwit, who had claimed to be the sole witness to the crime. Though I can't take complete credit for solving the case- without the support of my mentor, Defense Attorney Mia Fey, I probably would have made a complete fool of myself on stand. 

Phoenix: [thinking] I wonder if the Judge makes all the attorneys take quizzes before the trial begins...it's a good thing I got them all right, otherwise I probably would have been laughed out of court.

Chief was nice enough to give me the day off, and I took that advantage by sleeping in. Still in bed, I have no idea what time it is, but I'm far too comfortable to get up. Pressing my face into my soft pillow, I'm about to drift off into dreamland again when I come to a sudden realization.

Phoenix: [thinking] Wait a second, something's wrong with my bed...it's way comfier than it should be. 

Suddenly wide awake, I jolt upright, adrenaline pumping through my veins when I see that I'm not in my bedroom. 

Phoenix: "Gah! Where am I?"

Phoenix: [thinking] How the heck did I get here?! This isn’t my apartment…It looks more like some kind of expensive hotel room or a student’s dorm room at one of those fancy private schools that you see on TV. Was I kidnapped while I was asleep?

Phoenix: [thinking] No, that can't be true. I'm a pretty deep sleeper, but it's not possible I would have slept through a kidnapping. 

Phoenix: [thinking] Unless...was I drugged or something? That would explain some things...but why would anyone want to kidnap me? 

Phoenix: [to self] “Okay, try not to panic. All I have to do is retrace my steps, and maybe I’ll remember how I got here. After the trial, I had dinner at a diner with Mia to celebrate my first victory...We met around 9 PM in her office, then we went to that burger place... At about 9:30 PM we said our goodbyes and walked home separately. Then I went to bed about fifteen minutes later... And that's where my memory ends."

Phoenix: [thinking] I better get out of here...fast!

[Examine Windows]

There are two medium-sized windows in this room, and both have metal plates bolted to them, making it impossible to look outside. I give one of the metal plates a few taps to test its strength, and it clunks loudly under my fist.

*BANG BANG BANG*

Phoenix: "Solid as a rock...I mean, metal. It's pretty thick, and the bolts look like they've been welded on. There's no way I'll be able to pry them off on my own." 

[Examine Bed]

Phoenix: [thinking] That bed was actually pretty comfortable. I can’t remember the last time I’ve woken up without an aching back…maybe when I get out of here I’ll buy a better mattress.

 [Examine Security Camera]

Phoenix: "A security camera?"

Phoenix: [thinking] Does this mean I'm being watched right now?

Phoenix: [shudders] "Creepy."

[Examine Television Monitor]

Phoenix: [thinking] I can't see any buttons to work the TV...not that it matters, obviously! 

[Examine Table]

Phoenix: "Hey, someone left a note!"

Congratulations, [Phoenix Wright]!

You have been accepted to Hope's Peak Academy as Ultimate [Defense Attorney].

From this moment on, this school will be your entire world.

Sincerely,

Headmaster DG

Phoenix: "..."

Phoenix: [thinking] So this is...a school? Hope's Peak Academy...I've never heard of this place before, but the note makes it seem that getting accepted is some sort of huge honor. But why did they chose a rookie lawyer as the Ultimate Defense Attorney? And who the heck is ‘DG’?

Phoenix: [thinking] So many things about this situation make absolutely no sense.

*Hope's Peak Acceptance Letter has been added to your inventory.

[Examine Left Door]

Expecting the door to be locked, I nearly startle when the knob easily turns under my hand, revealing...

Phoenix: [disappointed] "It's just a bathroom."

I close the bathroom door.

[Examine Right Door]

Phoenix: "Second time's the charm!"

Once again, the doorknob turns easily under my hand. This time, however, instead of leading into a bathroom, the door opens up into a long hallway. 

Phoenix: [thinking] Even if this is a school, what kind of academy has surveillance cameras in their students' bedrooms? I'm pretty sure that's illegal. Unless...is this a school for delinquents? No, that can't be right...the letter made it seem like being accepted required you to be amazing at some kind of skill…

Phoenix: [thinking] Something which definitely doesn't apply to me.

???: "Omigosh, another person! I thought I was all alone! I mean, I know the letter said there were other people, but I was still worried, you know?" 

Phoenix: "Gah!"

All of a sudden, a teenage girl appears from seemingly out of nowhere. The first thing I notice about her is her unusual outfit- a pink kimono with a purple sash across the waist and a purple shawl across her shoulders. Though I’ve never met this girl before in my life, there’s something about her features that feel oddly familiar.

Phoenix: "What the-"

???: [interrupts] "Wait a sec, are you Phoenix Wright? My sis has told me all about you! [flashes peace sign] My name's Maya Fey, and I'm a spirit medium!" 

Phoenix: "Your sister? Are you talking about-"

Maya: "Yep! My older sis is Mia Fey. You know, I've heard a lot about you from her!"

Phoenix: You h-have? Really? What did she say?

Phoenix: [thinking] I hope none of it was bad. 

Maya: "I was talking to my sister on the phone the other day, and she mentioned your trial.

[FLASHBACK START]

Mia: "Today was my junior partner's first time in court."

Maya: "Wow! Really? How did it go?"

Mia: [laughs] "It was quite the scene! Honestly, I was on edge the whole time."

Maya: [giggles] Hah! So, he crashed and burned?

Mia: "..."

Maya: [worried] "Sis?"

Mia: "He's a genius. One of those 'strike fear into the hearts of evil' types. The only thing he's lacking is experience."

Maya: "Huh, sounds like it was fun!

Mia: "Well, despite all the times I felt like he was going to give me a heart attack, I'd have to agree with you."

Maya: "Then I know who to go to if I ever get in trouble now!" [giggles]

Mia: "I think you might want to wait at least a few years. That is, unless you want to be found guilty."

[FLASHBACK END]

Maya: "And that's what she said!"

Phoenix: "..."

Realizing what she just revealed, Maya flushes bright red. 

Maya: [embarrassed] "I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to insult you..."

Phoenix: "No, it's okay. It's true, I guess." 

Not wanting to let any awkwardness settle in-between us, I quickly move onto a more important topic.

Phoenix: "Anyway, do you know where we are?"

Maya: "Nope! I was actually hoping you'd know. So, um, yeah. When I first woke up in this place, I almost thought this was part of my spiritual training, but if it was then you wouldn't be here as well." 

Phoenix: "So you just woke up in one of these rooms? Do you remember how you got there?"

Maya: [shakes head] "The last thing I remember was talking to Mia on the phone. She needed me to...she needed me to...." 

Wincing, Maya presses her hand against her forehead.

Phoenix: Are you okay?

Maya: "Huh? Yeah, I'm fine. I just...can't remember what she needed me to do. I know it was something important, but..."

Maya: "Anyway, while we were talking, I suddenly felt super dizzy....and then I must have passed out."

Phoenix: "The last thing I can remember before waking up here is going to bed after the trial. The weird thing is, I was wearing pajamas when I went to sleep, but I woke up wearing my suit."

Maya: [shudders] "Wait, so whoever kidnapped us undressed you?! That's super creepy!"

Phoenix: "For my own sanity, I'm trying to pretend that it didn't happen."

Maya: [nods] "Gotcha."

Maya: "Nick? We've definitely been kidnapped, right? But this seems like a really weird kidnapping. Whoever took us must have spent a lot of effort, but why aren't there any...guards or locks or other stuff that usually comes with this sort of thing? I mean, the windows have those metal things on them, but that’s about it."

Phoenix: [thinking] Maya has a point. If I was going to kidnap someone, I wouldn't let them wander free all over the place. There may be security cameras, but I'm starting to think no one is actually watching us right now. Unless...are they just that confident that there's no way to escape?

Maya: “If there are other people trapped here, I think we should find them! There’s safety in numbers, you know? Besides, maybe one of them knows a way out!

Phoenix: “We probably should check all the other bedrooms first before we go anywhere, don’t you think?”

Maya: [grins] “Already did! I knocked on all the doors, and nobody answered.”

Phoenix: “Did you check the inside of the rooms?”

Maya: [shakes head] “I tried, but all the doors were locked. If there’s anyone unconscious in those rooms, we have no way of knowing.”

Maya: [perks up] “Unless…Hey Nick, do you know how to pick a lock?” 

Phoenix: “Nope. Sorry, Maya.”

Maya: “That’s okay, Nick! I figured you wouldn’t know how to, but I thought I’d ask anyway.”

Phoenix: [thinking] Is that supposed to be a compliment or an insult?

Phoenix: “In that case, I think we should get moving. If we hang around here for too long, we might get caught by someone in charge."

Chapter Text

[Investigate Trash Room]

Unlike the rest of the building we’ve seen so far-which to be fair, hasn’t been that much- this place has a much more industrial feel to it. The Trash Room has been divided into two sections by a large metal gate; on the other side of the gate is a large incinerator, which is currently not in use.

On our side of the gate there are two people; one is a man in a flashy red and white outfit messing with a device on his wrist, and the other is…

Phoenix: [thinking] A samurai?! What the heck's a samurai doing here?

Maya: [gasps] "Omigosh!" 

Maya: [urgently] "Nick, look! Look! Can you believe it? It’s him! The Steel Samurai!"

Phoenix: “The Steel Samurai? Who’s that?”

Maya: “What?! You don’t know the Steel Samurai?! He’s only the most popular TV hero for young people?”

Phoenix: “Young? Like how young?”

Maya: [pauses] “Uh…ten years old?”

Phoenix: [thinking] Then what the heck is she doing getting all excited? And why does she expect me to know who he is?

Maya: “Hey! I can see that look on your face! I know what you’re thinking! Well, I’m only seventeen! That’s seven-’teen.’ See? I’m a teen! Not old like you, Nick.” 

Phoenix: “Seriously? Don’t talk to me like I’m your grandpa or something, I’m only twenty-four!"

Maya: [giggles] "That's just what old people say! Teehee, you're basically a fossil at this point, Nick."

Phoenix: [sighs] "Why do I even bother?"

[Examine Furnace]

Phoenix: [thinking] That’s a pretty big incinerator; I guess this place must generate a lot of trash.  

Phoenix: [thinking] With the gate in the way, there’s no way to access it.

Maya: “Hey Nick, I just figured out how to turn on the furnace without having to open the gate! All you need to do is find a ball, throw the ball through the gaps straight at that big button, and presto!"

Phoenix: “...”

Maya: “I'm pretty good at throwing, so I bet I could do that if you find me a ball.”

Phoenix: “Maya, there’s no way anyone could manage to pull that off!”

Maya: “I bet a real baseball pro could do it.”

Phoenix: [thinking] There’s no way a living person could perform that kind of stunt, even if they were the best baseball player in the world…right?

[Examine Gate]

I tug experimentally at the gates and attempt to open the door, but nothing happens. 

Phoenix: [thinking] Oh well. I doubt we’ll need to use the furnace, anyway.

[Talk to Man in Flashy Outfit] 

???: [studying his device] "Hmm. Yeah. Uh-huh. I think I'm starting to understand now...and that is...I have no idea what's going on."

Maya: “Um, excuse me? Sorry to interrupt, but-”

???: "Oh. Hey. Sorry to disappoint, but I don't give autographs for free anymore. Times are tough these days, you know?"

???: [flips hair] "At least, that's what my manager keeps saying. Also, I already have life insurance and I don't need a fire extinguisher because this isn’t my house."

Maya: [cheerfully] "That's okay, we don't need an autograph right now!"

Phoenix: [thinking] Who even is this guy, and why does he think we'd want his autograph? More importantly, why did he bring up fire extinguishers and life insurance?!

Phoenix: [clears throat] "I'm a lawyer. Not a life insurance or fire extinguisher salesman. And my name is Phoenix Wright, by the way."

Maya: "And I'm Maya Fey!"

???: [blank expression] "A lawyer? Oh. Well, I don't need one of those either. At least, I don't think I do. I'd ask my manager, but for some reason I can't contact her. So I've just been hanging around trying to get a signal so she can tell me what to do. I don't want to get in any hot water with my team, you know?"

Maya: "You have a manager? Are you like, famous or something?"

???: [concerned] "Sheesh, do you have amnesia or, like, some kind of traumatic brain injury? Because, like, everyone should know who I am."

Phoenix: [irritated] "Can you just introduce yourself already?"

???: "Yikes, I didn't know you also had a brain injury. Okay, since neither of you remember who I am, I guess I'll reintroduce myself. The name's Matt Engarde, and I'm a world-famous actor who's been in a ton of famous TV shows and movies."

Phoenix: [thinking] This guy is really starting to get on my nerves...

Phoenix: "Engarde, what's the last thing you remember before you arrived here?"

Matt Engarde: "The last thing I remember? Uh...I was at The Hero's Grand Prix...And I had just won an award for something. Then I woke up here, but like, I don't even remember falling asleep. Crazy, right?"

Maya: "Hey, I had something like that happen to me, too!"

Matt Engarde: "Huh."

Matt Engarde: "Anyway, I'd love to like, talk some more, but I'm kind of busy." 

Matt Engarde: [gestures to wrist communicator] "Like, I don't mean to be an asshole, but do you mind going away? If I get in contact with my manager, she won't want you overhearing our discussion, so...yeah. Please go."

Phoenix: [thinking] Well, that was pointless. 

[Talk to the Steel Samurai]

Steel Samurai: "..."

Now that we're standing closer to the guy, I notice details about the costume I hadn't seen previously.

The Steel Samurai’s costume, though it had appeared to be made of metal from further away, actually seems to be some sort of stiff fabric dyed silver. There are strange metallic tubes wrapped around his shoulders that are tied into a knot on his back, and the top knot attached to his mask resembles an antenna. 

Maya: “Hi Mr. Steel Samurai! My name’s Maya, and I’m a huge fan of yours!”

Steel Samurai: “Oh, um…Greetings. It’s lovely to meet a fan. So, um, you can call me the Steel Samurai if you want, but I’m fine with you calling me Will Powers if you want. That’s my, um, name."

Maya: "Omigosh, really?! Nick, I’m on a first name basis with the Steel Samurai!"

Maya: “By the way, Mr. Will Powers, this is my new friend, Nick. We met a couple of minutes ago, and he’s pretty cool even though he’s a bit out of touch with the world.”

Phoenix: [thinking] Was that supposed to be a compliment?

Phoenix: “I’m Phoenix Wright. Nice to meet you, Mr. Powers.”

Steel Samurai Will Powers: “Y-You too.”

Maya: [bouncing a little on her toes] “So Mr. Will, what’s a famous samurai actor like you doing in a place like this? Were you also kidnapped?” 

Will Powers: [nods] “That seems to be the case. The last thing I can remember was going to take a nap in my dressing room after lunch. But, um, when I woke up here, I noticed that, um, there was something strange. Besides this whole situation we're in, I mean.” 

Maya: “Huh? Something strange?”

Will Powers: “When I took my nap, I wasn’t wearing the Steel Samurai suit at the time- I know for a fact I hung the costume on a hook before I lay down.”

Will Powers: “But, um, that’s not the weirdest part. You see, during filming that morning, I got into an accident while doing action shots with Jack Hammer. Long story short, I ended up tripping and breaking the Samurai Spear, while also spraining my ankle. We were able to tape up the spear with no problem, but the medics on site said my ankle would need at least a week to heal properly.”

Maya: [concerned] “That must have been really painful!"

Will Powers: [nonchalantly] “It’s just part of the job, so I’m used to it. To be honest, it was mostly my fault. Anyway, the weirdest thing is, when I woke up, my ankle was completely fine. Aside from some faint bruising, it was almost like that accident had never happened!”

Phoenix: [thinking] So he went to take a nap not wearing his costume and with a sprained ankle, but woke up wearing that outfit and with his ankle healed? How is that even possible?

Maya: “That’s crazy! Do you think our kidnappers used some kind of hidden technique to heal you?”

Will Powers: “Either that, or I was asleep for a whole week.”

Phoenix: [thinking] I doubt modern medical technology has increased to the point where sprained ankles can be healed in just a few hours, but could he have really been unconscious for a week without feeling the effects? Neither option quite seems to fit…

Maya: "Besides you and that other guy, are there any other people trapped in this building?"

Will Powers: "I spotted someone else but he screamed and ran away when they saw me. I think the samurai suit might have scared them a little..."

Will Powers: [sheepishly] "I tried saying that I wasn't going to hurt him....but I think that he was too freaked out to listen. And I, well, I didn't go after him because I thought it would make things worse."

Phoenix: "They must have been kidnapped as well. Mr. Powers, can you tell me anything about the person you saw?"

Will Powers: "I only caught a brief glimpse of them, so I might get some stuff wrong. Um, er, I remember he had an orange jacket on...and I think he had a goatee."

Phoenix: [thinking] That's not much to go off on...but it'll probably be enough for us to be able to recognize the guy if we end up running into him at some point.

Will Powers: "If youy happen to see them again, can you apologize for me? I feel really bad about scaring them."

Maya: [gasps] "Omigosh, the Steel Samurai wants me to complete a mission for him? Of course we will!"

Will Powers: [relieved] "Thank you, Ms. Fey."

Phoenix: [thinking] Seems like Mr. Powers doesn't know anything about our situation, either...But at least he's more likeable than Engarde.

Chapter Text

[Return to Hallway]

Maya: “Do you hear that?”

Phoenix: “Huh?”

Maya: “There’s a noise coming from the men’s bathroom. It sounds like…crying? Nick, I think that might be the person Will Powers was talking about!” 

Phoenix: “You mean, the guy that ran away from Powers?”

Maya: “Exactly!”

Maya: “I think we should go in there. They sound really upset, and if they were scared by the Steel Samurai of all people, I doubt they'd be dangerous.”

Phoenix: “Wait, you’re going in, too? Maya, this is a men’s bathroom!”

Maya: [shrugs] “I mean, do you really want to go in by yourself?”

Phoenix: “Not really...”

Maya: "Then let's do this!"

[Investigate the Men’s Bathroom]

As soon as we step inside the bathroom, the crying sounds almost immediately stop; whoever’s in this bathroom clearly doesn’t want anyone to know they’re in here.

Maya: “So, this is what a men’s bathroom looks like? I gotta say, it’s way cleaner than I thought it would be.”

Phoenix: “I mean, this place is pretty fancy, so it makes sense that the bathrooms are pristine.” 

Maya: “Still, I kind of expected this place to be all gross and stuff. Since this is a guy’s bathroom and all that.”

Phoenix: [thinking] Harsh, but I get where she's coming from.

[Examine Bathroom Stalls]

Maya and I go down the line of bathroom stalls, knocking on them politely one at a time. It’s only until we get to the last stall that we finally receive a response.

???: “Um, it’s occupied! I mean, no one’s here! I mean, uh, I have karate training so don’t try anything!”

Phoenix: [thinking] That voice…it can’t be…

Phoenix: “Larry, is that you?”

???: “Nick?”

In less than a second, the stall door slams open, and Larry Butz practically throws himself into my arms, sobbing all the while.

Larry: “Nicky! I can’t believe you’re here! Everything’s been so crazy, I woke up in this room and I tried to escape but there’s security cameras everywhere and all the windows are covered in metal plates. I was looking for help, but then this…thing came out of nowhere! I wasn’t able to get a good look at it, but it was huge! I think it was some kind of evil robot…”

Maya: “That was the Steel Samurai!”

Larry, upon hearing Maya’s voice, stiffens up in my grasp.

Larry: [whispering into my ear] “Dude, why didn’t you tell me there was a girl here! Ugh, I’m so embarrassed…”

Larry: [wipes eyes with sleeve] “And wait, that was the Steel Samurai?! Man, now I feel even worse.” 

Phoenix: “That’s fine, we talked to Powers and he’s not mad at you. If anything, he was actually worried about scaring you off like that. Said he would have gone after you but he didn’t want to scare you even more.”

Larry: “I-I wasn’t scared! I was just, um, practicing my survival skills? Yeah, I was totally doing that.”

Phoenix: [thinking] That’s such a terrible lie…but I’m not going to call him out on that.

Larry: “So, um, Nick. Who’s your friend? She’s not your…

Phoenix: “She’s not my…what?"

Phoenix: [thinking] Wait, does Larry think that Maya and are-

Phoenix: N-No, she’s not!”

Maya: “I’m his investigating partner, Maya Fey!"

Larry: “So, uh, how long have you known each other?”

Maya: “About fifteen minutes! How long have you known Nick?”

Larry: “About twenty-three years. N-Not that it’s a competition or anything!"

Phoenix: [thinking] Okay, so now I know at least five people have been kidnapped: Will Powers, Matt Engarde, Larry Butz, Maya Fey, and me. But what's the connection between us all? Both Powers and Engarde are rich and famous, but the rest of us aren't; if our captors were just looking for a large ransom and media attention, wouldn't they have just kidnapped celebrities?"

Phoenix: [thinking] None of this makes any sense...

Larry: "Nicky, can I come with you guys? I really don't want to be stuck in this bathroom for the rest of my life."

Phoenix: "Sure! There's safety in numbers, after all." 

Maya: "Yeah! Don't worry Larry, we'll protect you!"

Larry: [puffing out his chest] "Y-You don't need to do that, Maya! In fact, I can protect you!"

Phoenix: [thinking] I doubt that.

[Return to Hallway]

Phoenix: "Hey Larry, what's the last thing you remember before you woke up here?"

Larry: "The last thing I remember? Hmm...Give me a second..."

Larry: "Oh! I was at Gourdy Lake, about to start my new job selling Samurai Dogs. They're sort of like hot dogs, but with a Steel Samurai theme!"

Maya: "Woah! Steel Samurai themed hot dogs sound amazing! Are they shaped like the Steel Samurai?"

Larry: "Uh...not really. They're actually shaped like gourds."

Maya: [confused] "But why are they called Samurai Dogs and not something like...Gourd Dogs?"

Larry: "Oh, well, originally they were called that. The Samurai thing was Kiyance's idea. She was all 'change that name and you go girlfriend!' She made me a banner and everything! Man, those kids can't get enough of those Samurai Dogs! Plus, we've been getting a ton of customers at the lake, what with the big news!"

Maya: "The big news?"

Larry: "Huh? You mean you don't know? It was all over the news! There's a giant, mysterious monster living in Gourdy Lake!"

Maya: "A...monster?"

Larry: "Yeah! I even have the article with me. Check this out. This is an article from yesterday's newspaper. It even has a photograph!"

Larry pulls out a crumpled piece of newspaper from his jacket pocket and shows it to us. 

HOT NEWS!

GIANT LIFEFORM APPEARS IN GOURD LAKE!

Maya: [gasps] "Wow! It's r-really real! Nick! A monster! A real monster!”

I examine the photograph. Two people, a man and a woman, dressed in winter coats, stand smiling in front of a lake. In the far-off distance, floating in the waters, is a shadowy shape that resembles a long neck. 

Phoenix: “Umm…yeah.”

Phoenix: [thinking] It’s probably just a log or something…right?

Phoenix: “Hey, there’s a quote here from the person who took the photo.”

“I set the camera to automatic, and when we got into the frame, I heard a loud ‘bang’! Like an explosion! It was then followed by the sound of something slipping into the water.”

Maya: “I wish I could have seen that!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Why would there be a sound like an explosion?

Phoenix: [thinking] Hang on, there’s something off about this picture…and it’s not just that weird shadow creature that’s probably a log. It's something obvious, something that's staring me right in the face...

Phoenix: [thinking] Never mind, I'm probably overthinking this.

Phoenix: “Larry, can I borrow this article from you?”

Larry: “Sure, no problem. I already have another copy at home.”

*HOT NEWS! Article has been added to your inventory.

Larry: [winks] "When we get out of here, you owe me one million dollars!"

Maya: [startles] "One...million?!"

Phoenix: [thinking] Grow up, Larry.

Just then, a nearby door labeled “Laundry Room” practically slams open; out walks three people: a young woman with a ginger afro, an older man dressed in a fancy suit, and a clown. 

Afro-Haired Woman: “Well then, now we only have..” [she begins to count on her fingers] “Five? I reckon that means we have five more people left to find. This oughta be easy as pie!”

Man in Suit: “Indubitably.”

Clown: “I’m so glad you guys found me, I was starting to think that I should…throw in the towel!”

Afro-Haired Woman: “...”

Man in Suit: “...”

Clown: “Get it? Because I was in the Laundry Room…?”

Clown: “Aha! Aha Aha!”

Larry: [whispering] “Nick, that clown is seriously freaking me out.”

Phoenix: [thinking] Same.

Man in Suit: [gestures to Maya, Larry and me] “It appears as though we have found three more people. Might I presume that you also woke up in this building with no prior memories?”

Maya: "Yep!"

Man in Suit: [polite bow] “Greetings. My name is John Doe, and I am a bellboy at the Gatewater Imperial Hotel.”

Maya: “Nice to meet you! My name’s Maya Fey, and I’m a spirit medium! This is Nick, he’s a lawyer. And that’s Larry! He sells Samurai Dogs!”

Larry: [quickly] “By the way, I’m also a freelancer.”

Phoenix: [thinking] The Gatewater Hotel…that name sounds familiar.

Standing at around six feet tall, John Doe is a pale-faced man with short, neatly combed black hair, a finely trimmed mustache, and a fancy monocle. 

 Every single aspect of this guy is the very definition of prim and proper, and it’s a little intimidating how well put together he is. 

Clown: “A lawyer, huh? Hey, what did the lawyer call his daughter?”

Phoenix: “Uh, I don’t know, what?”

Clown: “Sue!”

Maya: “Teehee. Good one!”

Clown: “Aha Aha Aha!”

Phoenix: [thinking] And I was thinking this day couldn’t possibly get any worse…

Clown: “My name’s Moe Curls, and I’m the star clown of Berry Big Circus!”

Just looking at Moe makes my eyes hurt. Nearly a whole head shorter than John but twice as wide, Moe has on a blue jumpsuit with oversized white buttons; all over his jumpsuit is this ugly pattern of grinning mouths below bulbous clown noses. Curly blond hair puffs out from underneath a blue hat that has a cartoonish carrot attached to the top by a string. All in all, he’s one creepy looking clown. 

Moe: “KABLAMNO!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Must…find…earplugs…

Afro-Haired Woman: [irritated] “What in tarnation are you doin’, yelling up a storm like that? Stunts like that might end us in an even worse place, so quit acting like such a buffoon!”

Moe: [sheepish] “Yes, ma’am.”

Afro-Haired Woman: [cheerful] “Well then, seein’ as there’s new folks I might as well introduce myself. The name’s Lotta Hart, so don’t you be forgetting it, ya hear? Of course, I don’t mind if you call me Lotta for short. I’m a photojournalist, by the way.” 

Lotta Hart is short and energetic, with a fiery red afro kept in place by a white hairband. Though I’ve only known her for a few moments, I can tell she’s not someone to be messed with. 

Phoenix: [thoughtful] “You mentioned earlier that you knew that there were five people left for you to find. How did you know that?”

John Doe: “When I first woke up, I was in this school’s Entrance Hall. There, on a nearby bulletin board, I discovered a list of twenty one names. Now that we’ve met you three, there are only two left accounted for.”

Maya: [excited] “You mean Will Powers and Matt Engarde? Nick and I saw them in the Trash Room together!”

Moe Curls: [waggles eyebrows] “That reminds me- what do you call a full trash can? A trash cannot!”

Moe: [loudly laughing] "Aha! Aha! Aha!"

Maya: [giggles] "Aha!"

Phoenix: [thinking] This is a nightmare...

John Doe: "Mr. Curls, please escort Ms. Fey, Mr. Butz, and Mr. Wright to the Entrance Hall. As for Ms. Hart and myself, we shall both fetch Mr. Powers and Mr. Engarde. Does that sound resonable?" 

Lotta Hart: "I reckon so."

Moe: "Sure thing, bossman!"

Larry: [whispering] "Nick, I really don't wanna go with that clown..."

Phoenix: [thinking] Same.

Moe: "C'mon gang, let's get moving!"

[Head to Entrance Hall]

As Moe leads the three of us to the Entrance Hall, he keeps up the non stop barrage of unfunny jokes. I try my best not to react, but it’s so hard to stop myself from cringing with each terrible one-liner that he says. 

Moe: “What’s the difference between a well-dressed man on a bicycle and a poorly-dressed man on a unicycle?”

Maya: [giggling] “I don’t know, what?”

Moe: “Attire!”

Maya: “Ha! Good one!”

Larry: “I don’t get it.”

Phoenix: [groans] “Ugh.”

Moe: “You seem a little stressed, Mr. Lawyer. Is it because your socks have holes in them?”

Phoenix: “My socks? I don’t think they have any holes in them.”

Moe: [waggles eyebrows] “If that’s the case, how did you get your feet in them?”

Larry: "Ha! That one's actually kinda funny."

Phoenix: [thinking] Not really...

[Entrance Hall]

It only took us a few minutes to reach the Entrance Hall, but the whole experience felt as though we’d been walking for hours. 

With a relieved sigh, I open the door.

When John Doe had told us everyone was waiting in the Entrance Hall, I had pictured a room very different from this one. Much like the Trash Room, the walls and floor are made from metallic panels, giving the entire area a harsh, unwelcoming environment. The decor, however, is the least of my worries. In the place of a front door, there is a vault entrance made of thick steel, with an electronic lock so complex that I can tell it's impossible to crack. 

Trying to calm myself down, I take a moment to look around the room, and to my surprise, there’s a face in the crowd that I recognize.

Phoenix: [thinking] Is that...Edgeworth?!

But before I can say a single word, a man dressed up as a cowboy speaks up first.

Cowboy: “Looks like the last of the stragglers have finally been rounded up.” 

Moe: “Almost! We’re just waiting for-”

The door opens behind me, letting in John Doe, Lotta Hart, Matt Engarde, and Will Powers.

Moe: "Never mind!"

Woman in Motorcyclists Outfit: [cheerfully] “Then that means we’re all here, then!”

Cowboy: [takes a sip from his flask] "Well then, now that we're all here, I reckon we might as well do some introductions first and get that outta the way before we tackle the big issue."

Intimidating Man in Tiger Jacket: [sarcastically] "Sure, sure. Let's all hold hands and share our names, favorite color, and fun fact about ourselves! That won't be a complete waste of time at all!"

Silver-Haired Woman: [scoffs] "There's no need for such dramatics, you foolish fool. I doubt this will take any longer than a few minutes, and the longer you stand about whining like a fool, the longer this will go on."

Intimidating Man in Tiger Jacket: [grumbles] "Youse got some nerve talking to The Tiger like that. I won't be forgetting this any time soon, you hear?"

Phoenix: [thinking] I guess this is the best time as any to introduce myself to everyone...but who should I talk to first?

Chapter Text

[Talk to Matt Engarde and Blonde-Haired Woman]

Matt Engarde: “So, like, what you’re saying is that this isn’t some kinda weird PR stunt?”

???: [adjusts glasses] “You are correct. This kidnapping is very real, unfortunately.”

Matt Engarde: “...”

???: “Sir?”

Matt Engarde: [snaps fingers] “Oh! I get it! You’re not allowed to tell me because it’ll ruin the surprise!”

???: “S-Sir, I promise you that-”

Phoenix: [thinking] Engarde really is deep in denial right now.... 

Phoenix: “Excuse me? Sorry for interrupting, but my name is-”

Matt Engarde: [cheerfully] “Hey, lawyer-man! You still remember me, right?”

Phoenix: “O-Of course I remember you! We just spoke earlier!”

Matt Engarde: [flips hair] “Well, yeah. But like, since you have brain damage and everything, I thought I might as well remind you.”

Phoenix: [irritated] “I don’t have brain damage!”

Matt Engarde: [dismissive] “Uh huh. Yeah. Totally. Anyway, this is my business manager, Adrian Andrews.” 

Adrian Andrews looks to be around 5 '4 inches tall; standing next to Matt Enagrde, she seems much smaller in comparison. Her brown eyes, staring back at me from behind a pair of thin-framed glasses, are cold and calculating, and I feel as though I’ve been issued a challenge and found unworthy. 

Phoenix: “My name is Phoenix Wright, and I’m a defense attorney. Do you know-”

Adrian Andrews: [adjusts glasses] “Anything about this kidnapping? I can assure you, I know just as much, if not less, than you do. As for my whereabouts and actions before passing out and waking up in this building, all you need to know is that I was in the middle of an important task. I detest wasting time, which is why I am ending this conversation here.”

Before I can react, Andrews makes a sudden heel-turn and walks off into the crowd, Matt Engarde trailing close behind. 

Phoenix: [thinking] What the heck just happened? 

[Talk to the Magician]

???: “Ooh la la! Hello there, handsome”

Phoenix: [thinking] H-Handsome?!

???: [bows] “My name is Maximillion Galactica, the one and only shining star of the Berry Big Circus!”

Max Galactica has flyaway bright pink hair in stiff peaks that are only achievable by using way too much hair gel. His magician’s uniform- a cropped jacket, a pair bell bottom pants, a cape, and a top hat- is bright magenta, with the jacket decorated in images of cards. For some reason, he’s also shirtless. 

Phoenix: [thinking] Berry Big Circus? Didn’t Moe also say he worked there?

Max Galactica: “Now then, pick a card, pick any card! Just don’t allow me to see it!”

Galactica pulls out a deck of cards and shuffles them rapidly before pulling them into a spread and offering them to me. I pick one at random and glance at it. 

Phoenix: [thinking] It’s the Ace of Hearts.  

Max Galactica: [winks] “Uh huh. I thought you’d pick that one, sweetie.” 

Phoenix: [thinking] Please stop calling me sweetie.

Max Galactica: “Was it…the Ace of Hearts?”

Phoenix: “What the-”

Phoenix: “How did-”

Max Galactica: [winks] “What can I say, sweetie…You’ve stolen one of my most valuable possessions. One of Maximillion Galactica’s hearts!”

Phoenix: [thinking] I really don’t want anything to do with his hearts. 

I quickly hand Max his card back. With another wink, the magician quickly unshuffles the deck and snaps his fingers, making all the cards vanish.

Phoenix: [thinking] I’m not going to lie, that was pretty impressive. 

[Talk to Larry and Woman Smoking a Pipe]

Larry: [winks] “How’s it going? My name’s Larry Butz, and I’m a freelancer.”

???: [scoffs] “Tch.”

Larry: “You know, since we might be here for a while, we should get to know each other better. What’s your name?”

Phoenix: [thinking] Sheesh. Even in a situation like this, Larry somehow still finds the time to fail at flirting. 

Upon making eye contact with me, the woman lets out an annoyed sigh. 

???: [turning away from Larry] “Dee Vasquez. Producer at Global Studios.”

Dee Vasquez has short, curly black hair which frames a sharply-defined jaw. She has on a brown dress with sheer sleeves, brown gloves, brown tights, brown heels, and a brown scarf over her head. 

Phoenix: [thinking] I have a feeling that I only have a limited conversation window before Larry starts telling horrible pick-up lines, so I should make this count.

Phoenix: “I'm Phoenix Wright, and I'm a defense attorney.”

Dee Vasquez takes a short drag from her pipe and exhales a plume of smoke near my face, making me cough. 

Phoenix: [coughing] “Gack!”

Dee Vasque: “Tell me what you know. Now.”

Phoenix: [thinking] This is starting to feel like a police interrogation…

Phoenix: “I don’t-”

Dee Vasque: [scoffs] “Useless.”

Larry: [awkwardly]: “So, um, how are you doing, Ms. Vasquez?”

Dee Vasquez: “...”

Phoenix: [thinking] This conversation is starting to go south. I better leave before Larry tries involving me in his mess.

[Talk to Woman Wearing Onigiri Hat]

???: “Hey there, sweetie. The name is Angel Starr. Don’t you go forgetting it, alright?”

Angel Starr has long, dirty-blonde hair that reaches her shoulders, with bangs that completely cover her right eye. She has on a low cut black dress, a fluffy white fur coat, and a fuzzy pink hat decorated with an oversized onigiri. Hanging from the crook of her elbow is a pink basket filled to the brim with boxed lunches. 

Phoenix: “My name’s Phoenix Wright, it’s nice to meet you.”

Angel Starr: [gestures to basket] “Is there anything you’re interested in, Mr. Wright? I have plenty of options!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Is she seriously trying to sell me lunch right now?

Angel Starr: [offering me a box] “You seem like a man who’d appreciate some Crunchy Goodness.”

Phoenix: “Uh…thanks?”

Phoenix: [thinking] That’s an interesting way of doing business…

*Crunchy Goodness has been added to your inventory.

Angel Starr: “...”

Phoenix: “...”

Angel Starr: “Yesterday was a day of destiny, Mr. Wright. I knew something was going to happen…just like I know the Daily Special on Friday is always salmon.”

Phoenix: “Destiny? Was yesterday special for some reason?”

Angel Starr: “You’re a defense attorney, right? You should know then. You should know the foul deeds of the evil ones who haunt their den of inequity!”

Phoenix: “Are you talking about the people who kidnapped us?”

Angel Starr: [scoffs] “I speak of prosecutors, Mr. Wright! Foul beings who have no qualms at all about blackening the name of innocents! There is no doubt in my mind that the masterminds behind this kidnapping operation work for these repulsive creatures.” 

Phoenix: [thinking] She seems really convinced about this theory of hers…it’s clear that this lunch lady has a thing against prosecutors.

Angel Starr: “I can tell you’re unconvinced. I must say, I admire a man who isn’t easily persuaded. Even so, I would advise you to remember that prosecutors are all alike. And the bigger they get, the worse they smell...kind of like ten day old clams in the chowder.”

Phoenix: [thinking] I wonder if Ms. Starr was involved in sort of legal trouble in the past...

[Talk to Teenage Girl in Lab Coat]

???: [cheerfully]  “Oh, hi! My name’s Ema, Ema Skye. I’m a scientific investigator.”

Phoenix: “You’re a ‘scientific investigator’?”

Ema Skye: “Yes! That’s right! Is…something wrong?”

Phoenix: “No, it’s just, you seem kind of, well…young?”

Ema Skye: “Young? I’ll be sixteen years old this year!”

Phoenix: “Oh, I see…wait, you’re only sixteen?!”

Ema Skye: [adjusts glasses] “I’m set to be formally assigned to Forensics in three more years. My work is becoming quite well-known…at my age, no less!”

Phoenix: “Um, so what exactly is your position?”

Ema Skye: “Well, legally speaking, I guess you’d call me an ‘Eleventh Grader.’ B-But I’m ready to do my job!”

Phoenix: “So you want to be a scientific investigator when you grow up?”

Ema Skye: “E-Excuse me? I’m not a child, I’ll have you know!”

Phoenix: “Still, it’s good to have a goal. Albeit a very unusual one.”

Ema Skye: “I believe investigations should be done scientifically!”

Phoenix: “Uh, yeah.”

Ema Skye: “If this case is handled scientifically, I’m sure we’ll be able to escape in no time!”

Phoenix: [thinking] I’m not so confident that science can get us out of this mess…

[Talk to the Cowboy]

???: [tips hat] “Howdy. The name’s Jake Marshall. Looking at yer badge, I can tell that you’re a defense attorney.”

Phoenix: “That’s right. My name’s Phoenix, by the way. Phoenix Wright.”

Jake Marshall: [scratches chin] “Interesting. With you, that adds up to eight folks here who are involved in the legal field. Coincidence? I think not.”

Phoenix: “I’m guessing you’re one of those people, right?”

Jake Marshall: [smirks] “Yep. These days, I’m a patrolman, but I was one of them fancy-shoed ‘Detectives’ till two years ago, to tell you the truth.”

Officer Jake Marshall is a lanky man with a tanned complexion, long brown hair with a hint of stubble on his chin, and dark brown eyes. He’s wearing a blue police uniform with his police badge attached to it by a chain, a cowboy hat and a pair of cowboy boots to match, and a tan shawl wrapped across his shoulders. 

Jake Marshall: “By the way, there’s something I need to know. I’m presuming you were given some sort of Ultimate title by the group that kidnapped us, is that right?”

Phoenix: “Y-Yeah. Apparently I’m the Ultimate Defense Attorney.”

Jake Marshall: “Hm.”

Phoenix: “Hm?”

Jake Marshall: [dismissively] “Don’t worry about it none. I was just thinkin’ of something.”

Phoenix: [thinking] I want to question him, but I doubt he’ll answer if I press him too hard. For now, I might as well move on. 

[Talk to the Silver-Haired Woman]

???: [crossing arms] “Hmph. What a foolish mistake these fools have made, allowing us to roam about freely. Once I have escaped, they will all taste the end of my whip!”

Phoenix: “Um, excuse me? My name is Phoenix Wright, and I’m-”

???: [scoffs] “Do I seem deaf, Mr. Phoenix Wright? Or have you forgotten that sound travels more than a few feet away from the source? I heard your name while you were talking to the cowboy.”

Phoenix: “H-Huh? You mean you were listening to us?”

???: [scoffs] “Hardly. You’re just a very loud fool who’s impossible to drown out.”

Phoenix: [thinking] So much for starting this conversation on a good note…

???: “I am Franziska von Karma, the Prodigy Prosecutor, famed successor to the undefeated King of Prosecutors, Manfred von Karma.”

Phoenix: “I…see…”

Franziska von Karma: “Those of von Karma blood only have one fate. And that is “perfection”. Do you understand what this means? It means I will not be held hostage for much longer!”

Phoenix: [thinking] She’s so intense…

Franziska von Karma: “Even without my whip, I am still a force to be reckoned with. Mark my words, Mr. Phoenix Wright, I will break free. And when I do, I will personally see to it that my kidnappers will find no escape from their guilt on my watch!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Note to self- do NOT get on von Karma’s bad side. 

[Talk to the Intimidating Man in Tiger Jacket]

???: [roars] Gwoarrrrr!!!! I am so freakin’ pissed off right now! These punks think they got the best of me, but I swear they gonna pay big time! I’m gonna rip their spines right out their assholes, youse hear? And then I’m gonna beat ‘em so hard, it’ll feel like they were smoochin’ the express train!”

Phoenix: “Eek!”

???: “Whatsa matter wit’ you, tiny? Youse got somethin’ to say to me? I bet youse thinkin’ I got anger issues! Well, I’ll have you know dat my doc said my anger issues are perfectly fine, capiche?!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Can’t…move…body…frozen…

???: [snorts] “Ha! I love messin’ with wimps like youse!” 

Reaching out, the man slaps me on the back in what I think was meant to be a friendly gesture, but actually is hard enough to make my knees buckle, nearly sending me crashing to the floor.

???: “Ha! Youse see, I ain’t some kinda rabid beast, capiche? I ain’t gonna go after youse for just tryin’ to talk to me. Besides, I need ta save my energy for when I beat the living crap outta the morons who thought they could cage The Tiger!”

Phoenix: “I-Is that your name?”

???: [grins] “Sure is. Furio Tigre, owner of the Tender Lender, at your service. If youse need loans real fast, I gotcha covered. Just make sure to pay me back on time, or else youse gonna be sleepin’ with da fishes.”

Furio Tigre is an enormous man with broad shoulders and huge, rippling muscles that could easily tear me into shreds. There’s a large scar over his left eye, and his teeth have been sharpened to resemble fangs. 

Phoenix: “My name’s Phoenix Wright, and I’m a defense attorney.”

Furio Tigre: “Ha! A defense attorney? You?! Youse gotta be messin’ with me. Sure, sure, mista ‘defense attorney,’ I totally believe a wimp like youse could be a lawyer…not! I bet you got a real embarrassing job, Mr. Wright. Something youse don’t want anyone else to know about.”

Phoenix: “W-What?! No, I really am a-”

Furio Tigre: “Heh, but I don’t care what ya do fer a livin’. Long as youse don’t get in my way, we good.” 

Phoenix: [thinking] It's been a while since I've last been this terrified by someone…I need to stay out of The Tiger’s way, or else I might find myself six feet under!

[Talk to Maya and the Priestess] 

Maya: [cheerfully] “It’s great to meet you, Iris! So, you’re a shrine maiden at Hazakura Temple? I’ve heard that it’s a famous channeling dojo that takes reservations for special courses in spirit medium training.”

Iris?: [nods] “You’re right. We offer all sorts of training at the temple for spirit mediums.”

Maya: “That’s totally awesome! I’ve always wanted to take a class there, but reservations are really tricky to make, even for real spirit mediums! N-Not that I’m asking for special treatment, of course! Besides, I don’t think I’m far enough along in my training to try any of the classes.”

Iris?: “I had a feeling you were a spirit medium after seeing your outfit. I was wondering, though, are you a member of the Fey clan?”

Maya: “Yep! My name is Maya Fey, and I’m the future Master of the Kurain Channeling Technique! I still have a long way to go, though.”

Iris?: [startles] “T-The future Master? Does that mean you’re-”

Maya: “Oh, hey Nick! I didn’t see you there! Nick, this is Iris! She’s a shrine maiden at Hazakura Temple. Iris, this is Nick! He’s a defense attorney.”

Phoenix: “...”

Iris: “...”

Phoenix: [thinking] Th-This girl…I-It’s…!

[FLASHBACK]

“My name is Dahlia Hawthorne. Before we begin, I just want to say that it’s an honor for me to be here in your noble presence.”

“I know he doesn’t look it, but Feenie can be a bit of an imp when he wants to be. I never imagined that he would cause an electrical cable to break, but…Feenie really can be scary when he gets mad.”

“Madame Fey, are you seriously accusing me of killing my sweet Dougie? How can you say that?! Not to mention, I’m absolutely devoted to my dear Feenie. The notion I would try to frame him is ludicrous! This is all just too much for poor little me to bear!” 

“Feenie…what a joke you are. Honestly, how can any woman count on you for anything? I even told you time and time again to keep your trap shut about me and that necklace. You disgust me!”

[END FLASHBACK]

Phoenix: [thinking] But it can’t be! Dahlia was found guilty and should still be in prison! 

Maya: [confused] “Is something wrong?”

Iris: “Uh, er, no! It’s nothing!”

Maya: “Are you sure? You just sort of spaced out. Right, Nick?”

Phoenix: “...”

Maya: “Nick?”

Phoenix: “H-Huh? Did you say something, M-Maya?”

Maya: “Not you, too!”

Iris: “Oh, er, well…it’s a pleasure to meet you both, but…please excuse me, I think I should introduce myself to the others!”

Without another word, Iris rushes across the room, quickly inserting herself into a conversation between Will Powers and John Doe. 

Maya: “She sure is beautiful, isn’t she? A bit spacey, as well…I guess she’s not used to talking with urban sophisticates like us.”

Phoenix: “...”

Maya: [worried] “Nick? Are you okay?”

Phoenix: [thinking] That girl…it can’t be, but…

Phoenix: “I’m fine…I was just thinking about something unimportant.”

Maya: [doubtfully] “If you say so.”

Phoenix: [thinking] I know there’s no way Dahlia could possibly be here…so why does Iris look so much like her? I want to find out who she really is…but at the same time, I’m scared of what I’ll find.

[Talk to the Detective]

???: “Hee hee hee hee…”

Phoenix: [clears throat] “Excuse me?”

???: “Now I see! It’s all becoming clear!”

Phoenix: “Huh?”

???: “Zvarri! The truth has once again been elegantly revealed, all thanks to the impeccable deductive abilities of Luke Atmey, Ace Detective!”

Phoenix: “The…truth? What do you mean by that?”

Luke Atmey: “The identity of our captor, of course! Without a shadow of a doubt, I know who is responsible for this…and that person is none other than my archenemy, the shadowy thief infamously known as Mask☆DeMasque!”

Phoenix: “Mask DeMasque? Who’s that?”

Luke Atmey: “It’s pronounced Mask☆DeMasque, my fine lawyer!”

Phoenix: [thinking] That’s exactly how I said it…

Luke Atmey: “Mask☆DeMasque is a master thief known for two things: his flamboyant attire and his modus operandi for leaving behind a specialized calling card at the scene of the crime.”

Phoenix: “And you think this DeMasque person is behind all of this?”

Luke Atmey: “Indubitably!” 

Detective Luke Atmey has grey eyes, a long and very pointy nose, and a blond fringe of hair on an otherwise shaved head. There’s a magnifying glass over his left eye, which seems to be also serving as a monocle. 

Phoenix: [thinking] Why does the phrase ‘one short of a baker’s dozen’ come to mind with this guy?

Phoenix: “So, um, are you really as famous as you say?”

Luke Atmey: [cleaning monocle with handkerchief] “Of course! For a lawyer, you have a rather shocking lack of knowledge about the world. I had no idea anyone was left in the city that had not heard of me!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Talk about a huge ego…

Luke Atmey: “After all, I am Mask☆DeMasque’s arch-enemy, the Ace Detective Luke Atmey! At this moment, there are two mighty figures which loom large over this grand city! One embodies the nefarious forces of darkness. The other the angelic cherubs of light!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Okay, he’s officially lost me. 

Luke Atmey: “I have been personally on the heels of this villain since his first crime. After learning this criminal’s patterns, I thwarted his very latest loathsome larceny! And I did it all by myself! I took it back from Mask☆DeMasque with my brilliant mind and-”

Phoenix: “Hey, sorry to interrupt, but I still have some people I need to introduce myself to. Can we, um, talk about this later?”

Luke Atmey: “Certainly! As soon as you are free, simply let me know you wish to hear more of my exploits, and I will gladly share them all in full detail!”

Phoenix: [thinking] If I'm lucky, that'll never happen.

[Talk to Man with Visor]

???: [smirks] “Well, well. Seems as though fate had a different path set in mind for our first ever encounter. That we should meet not in the courtroom, but rather in captivity, is quite unexpected.”

Phoenix: “Huh?”

???: “No matter, I can easily adapt. After all, only the weak get washed aside by the tides of fate; the strong simply drink it up. That’s one of my rules.”

Phoenix: “What are you talking about?”

???: “Heh. Tell me, Trite. Do you believe that the hands of destiny control our lives?”

Phoenix: “I don’t know? Maybe?”

???: [scoffs] “Such a pathetic and predictable answer from an empty-headed man who lacks any convictions. I expected as much from you, and yet I still find myself to be disappointed.”

Phoenix: [thinking] There’s no denying it. Behind that mask is a man who really hates me. But who even is he? 

???: “Call me Godot. I’m a legendary prosecutor who’s never lost a single case.”

Godot has short spiky white hair, sideburns, and a goatee. Taking up most of his face is a gray visor with three horizontal red lights across it. 

Phoenix: [thinking] What’s the deal with that visor? Can he even see out of it?

Phoenix: “My name is Phoenix Wright, by the way. It’s not Trite.”

Godot: [smirks] “I know what I said, Trite. Get used to this name, for I will not be calling you by anything else.”

Phoenix: [thinking] Yep, this guy definitely hates my guts.

[Talk to Edgeworth and the Man in a Trenchcoat]

???: [sheepishly] “I interviewed everyone here so far, and no one seems to remember a thing. Sorry ‘bout that, boss.” 

Edgeworth: "No, that's alright. I wasn't expecting...I merely thought it would be worthwhile to check. Do not worry, Detective Gumshoe- this will not come out of your salary."

Detective Gumshoe: "Whew! That's a relief."

Phoenix: “Edgeworth, is that really you?”

Edgeworth: “!”

Man in Trenchcoat: [curious] “Sir, do you know this guy?”

Edgeworth: [scoffs] “Hardly.”

Man in Trenchcoat: [cheerfully] “Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you, pal! The name’s Dick Gumshoe, but everyone calls me Detective Gumshoe. Remember that, alright? And don’t go calling me ‘Dick’...you got that, pal?”

Phoenix: “Yes, Detective Gumshoe.”

Detective Gumshoe: “You know, you kinda remind me of someone. Wait, you’re that Butz guy, aren’t you!”

Phoenix: “No, no. I’m not Larry Butz. My name is Phoenix Wright, and I’m a defense attorney.”

Phoenix: [thinking] How could anyone mistake me for Larry? We look nothing alike!

Detective Gumshoe: “Whew! That Butz guy, he was a killer! And you’re no killer, right?”

Phoenix: “Actually, Larry was-”

Edgeworth: [scoffs] “Detective Gumshoe, for someone who claims to be on top of all the homicide cases in your district, I’m surprised you don’t remember the outcome of that particular trial. The defendant in that case was proven innocent on all counts.”

Detective Gumshoe: “Oh. Right. My bad.”

Edgeworth: [scoffs] “Mistakes like this one are the reason your salary keeps dropping, detective.”

Detective Gumshoe: “Aw, geez, not again.”

Edgeworth: [dismissive] “Wright, now that you’ve met Detective Gumshoe, I strongly suggest you leave and speak to someone else."

Phoenix: "Actually, you're the last people I've talked to. So, er, I don't need to introduce myself to anyone."

Edgeworth: "Even still, I think it would be for the best if-"

*DING DONG BING BONG*

Everyone turns to look at the video monitor, which has just flickered to life. Onscreen, there is a strangely-shaped silhouette of someone...or rather, something. 

???: “Ahem! Ahem! Testing, testing! Mike check, one two! This is a test of the school broadcast system! Am I on? Can everyone hear me? Good, good. To all incoming students, please report to the gymnasium at your earliest convenience, as the entrance ceremony is beginning…right now! Heh heh…don’t be late!”

With those parting words, the monitor shuts off. 

Phoenix: [thinking] Such a childish voice…why does it fill me with so much dread?

Phoenix: [thinking] What a childish voice…why does it fill me with so much dread?

Furio Tigre: [roars] “What da hell was that thing talkin’ about?”

Larry: [whimpers] “I-I want to go home!”

Will Powers: “Should we listen to what our captor says? It might be a trap, but I don’t know what else we can do.”

Franziska von Karma: “That foolish fool thinks he has the upper hand, how pathetic!”

Lotta Hart: “Didja see that shadowy figure? It didn’t look like a person at all. You think it’s some kinda cryptid?”

Godot: “It’s impossible to say for certain who or what that being is, but I do know one thing: You must always chase a riddle down to the end. That’s one of my rules.”

Furio Tigre: “When I see that little punk, I’m gonna beat the crap outta them!”

Matt Engrade: “So, like, what do we do?”

Franziska von Karma: [scoffs] “I, for one, am not going to stand around with you fools and wait for a solution. For those of you who are not cowardly fools, come with me to the gym.”

Luke Atmey: “ Zvarri! I was also thinking the very same thing!”

Phoenix: [thinking] Following our kidnapper's orders is risky...for all we know, we're being led into a trap. Then again, what other choice do we have?