My Little Ace Attorney: Elements of Justice/Crusading for a Turnabout - Part 1/Transcript

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Crusading for a Turnabout
~The Crusade Begins~

Scene 1
February 13, 12:30 PM Twilight's Castle - Throne Room Phoenix: (Ooh boy. That party last night sure was a ton of fun, but it took a lot out of me. But... As much as I'd love to stay here a while, we really should be heading home soon. A client could show up at the office, and we wouldn't even know it. Though, it doesn't look like anyone else wants to leave just yet. Well, no one except Apollo, at least.) Twilight: So, Athena. I've been meaning to ask you this for sometime now, but... What is that thing around your neck? A necklace of some kind? Athena: Oh, this? This is my pal, Widget. say hi, Widget! Widget: Hi Widget! Fluttershy: Oh my, it talks! Athena: Yup! Neat, isn't he? Twilight: I'll say! I wasn't expecting to hear him speak. So, what does he do? Athena: Well, Widget is my personal AI companion, and a portable computer that I use in court! His functions include taking notes, reviewing evidence, and assisting me in analyzing people's emotions. Twilight: So, he's like a living notebook? Athena: Yeah, I guess that's one way of describing him! Twilight: Interesting. And how does he help you analyze people's emotions? Athena: Well, with my special sense of hearing, I can detect the discord in a witness's heart while they're giving their testimony. Then, I plug the data I hear into a program called the Mood Matrix, and that way, I can see what emotions the witness is experiencing. Fluttershy: Wait, Discord? I have a friend named Discord! Twilight: Hehe, I don't think she means THAT kind of discord, Fluttershy. Athena: Basically, if I can pick up discord in someone's voice, then it means that their true emotions are conflicting with what they are saying. So I use Widget to try and pinpoint contradicting emotions, and reveal the truth behind a witness's testimony! Twilight: Wow! I've never heard of this sort of procedure. Clearing away the conflicting emotions and a witness's testimony to find the truth... That sounds revolutionary! Athena: It is! With the advent of bringing analytical psychology into the courtroom, the legal system will be given even more chances to grow and evolve! Twilight: That's amazing, Athena. Humans truly are exceptional when it comes to the legal world. Equestrian law, as far as I know, has remained stative for the past millennium, so it's refreshing to hear about a system of law that's constantly changing. Fluttershy: So, other than law in psychology, is there anything else that interests you? Do you have any pets? Athena: No, I don't, but I'd love to have one! I adore animals! Fluttershy: You do!? So do I! Do you have any favorites!? Athena: Well, I really love aquatic animals. In fact, there's an aquarium I like to visit that hosts live performances with some of them! I typically go there to study animal-assisted therapy, and further my psychological studies. The pirate show's pretty cool too, though! Fluttershy: Oh! You like animal therapy? I have plenty of animal friends that I let other ponies use for that purpose back in my cottage... ...um, I mean, if you'd like to meet them? Athena: Really!? Das klingt super! FS & TS: ? Athena: Oh! Err...hehe. What I meant was I'd LOVE to! FS & TS: Hihihihi... Phoenix: (Heh, it's good to see that Athena is making new friends.) Apollo: Look, I don't want to sound rude or anything, but I'm not sure how much more of all of...THIS I can handle... I REALLY just want to go home right now, but... I also don't want to spoil this experience for Athena and Trucy. From the looks of it, they seem to be having a lot of fun. Rainbow: Oh, you'll be fine. 'Nix was exactly like that the last time he was here. Applejack: Yep! So don't you fret nothin'! All of us are happy to do anything to make y'all comfortable! I got a whole orchard of apples if you need something to eat. Apollo: Right... So, I take it you're a farmer? Applejack: That's right! An apple farmer! I spend most of my time bucking trees at Sweet Apple Acres: my family's apple farm. Apollo: Wait, buck? Uh... What do you mean by buck? Applejack: You know, giving them trees a good, hard kick and knocking all them apples down. Apollo: Ohhhhh ok, I see. So, how many apple trees do you have? Applejack: I'd say dozens and dozens of them. Maybe even hundreds. Apollo: Hundreds?! And you had to harvest all those apples by yourself?! Applejack: Chuckles Of course not. I have my family to help out with the harvest. Rainbow: Although, there was that one time when you tried to harvest the entire orchard by yourself. Applejack: Well, my brother was injured and I wanted to prove I could do it myself. Apollo: Letting pride get in the way of asking for help, huh? Applejack: Yeah, yeah, but I came around eventually, thanks to my friends. Rainbow: And with an athlete like me on her side, we got it done really quick, too! Apollo: An athlete, huh? Rainbow: That's right! Fastest Flier in Ponyville, and top member of the Wonderbolt Reserves! Apollo: Really? That's some title you have there. Rainbow: Oh, just you wait. Soon, not only will I be an official Wonderbolt, but I'll have the title of Fastest Flier in all of Equestria! Applejack: I don't doubt it. I don't think I've ever met another pony with a drive like Rainbow's! She's won every race she's competed in! Well, except the Running of the Leaves. Rainbow: Oh don't get me started with that race! You kept trying to trim me up at every turn! Applejack: Oh please, you were the one that started it! Apollo: Still, winning every race you've entered is no small feat. Don't you ever get nervous before a race? Rainbow: What? Me? Nervous? Nah! I'm always raring to go! Applejack: In races, sure, but what about the Best Young Fliers Competition? Rainbow: Oh come on, I was just a little out of it that day, that's all! Applejack: A little? You were floppin' around like a blindfolded bull in a rodeo! Rainbow: Well, I was able to do the Sonic Rainboom, AND save Rarity and the Wonderbolts from falling to their doom in the process! How's that for "floppin' around?" Apollo: You know, I think I've got just a trick to keep you from getting nervous before a competition. Rainbow: Hm? What would that be? Apollo: Vocal exercises. RD & AJ: Vocal exercises? Apollo: Yep! I do what I call my Chords of Steel Exercise whenever I get nervous before a trial. What you do is stand up straight, take a deep breath, and scream as loud as you can. Rainbow: You really think SCREAMING is going to stop me from getting nervous? Apollo: I know it will! It works for me all the time. Here, let me show you! my name is apollo justice and i'm fine! RD & AJ: WAH! Apollo: See? Easy! Rainbow: Jeez, are you trying to make me go deaf? Apollo: Oh, come on. That was only about half as loud as I usually go. Why don't you give it a try? Rainbow: Do I have to? Apollo: What do you have to lose? Rainbow: Ugh, fine... My name is Rainbow Dash and I'm fine... Apollo: You're going to psych yourself up like that? I couldn't even hear you! Come on, do it louder! Rainbow: My name is Rainbow Dash and I'm fine! Apollo: Louder! Rainbow: My name is Rainbow Dash and I'm fine!!! Apollo: LOUDER!!! Rainbow: my name is rainbow dash and i'm fine!!! Apollo: There you go! Now, how do you feel? Rainbow: Wa-ha! That was awesome! I feel like I can go ten marathons! I'm totally doing this from now on before I compete in the race! Applejack: That was louder than a buffalo stampede... ah don't think ah can hear out of this ear no more... Apollo: Alright, good stuff! Now, this next bit is a tad more advanced, but I find that it helps even more if you get up REALLY early and do it! Rainbow: H-hey! You didn't say anything about that! Phoenix: (Oh great, Apollo's teaching his new friends about his Chords of Steel exercise. If he teaches Pinkie, there won't be a sound barrier to break anymore...) Pinkie: Ooooh! You were an amazing magician at the party last night, Trucy! Trucy: Thank you! It's been a while since I had a crowd that big! I'm happy they all had a good time! Rarity: Oh, darling, you were simply marvelous! How long have you been practicing magic? Trucy: Ever since I was a little girl! Rarity: My, my, I see you were gifted even as a child! How did you learn to perform magic in your world? Did you have a teacher of sorts? Trucy: Yep! My daddy taught me everything I know. Rarity: Your... daddy? Do you mean to say that Mr. Wright is a lawyer AND a magician? Trucy: Oh no no no, my OTHER daddy taught me. Pinkie: Huh? Two daddies? How does that work? Are daddies able to give birth in your world? Trucy: Haha, no Pinkie! I meant that I had another daddy, before Phoenix, but when he vanished, Phoenix became my new daddy! Rarity: Ohhh, so you're adopted, then? Trucy: Yep! Rarity: So, your birth father vanished? What exactly happened? Trucy: It's kind of a long story; I'm not really sure how I'd begin to explain it. Pinkie: Did he explode? Did he run away? Oh! Maybe he's hiding under an invisibility cloak! Trucy: Well, who knows? A magician never reveals their secrets, as they say. Phoenix: (It's good to see that Trucy's also making friends here. Speaking of... I kind of wish I could let everyone back home know that we're okay. Unfortunately, Equestria has no reception, so there's nothing I can really do about that.) Spike: You alright there, Phoenix? You've been spacing out for a few minutes now. Phoenix: Huh? Oh yeah, I'm fine. Just got a lot on my mind. I guess I didn't expect to be on vacation so soon after getting my badge back, y'know? It's crazy to think about how much has happened since I was last here. Since I left, I was disbarred, adopted an amazing daughter, cleared my name, and helped bring an end to the Dark Age of the Law. All of that... in just eight years. Spike: Sounds like you've been just as busy. I know Twilight sometimes finds it hard to believe it's only been a year and a half since you left. Phoenix: Really? Spike: She's had to go through a lot as well, especially after becoming a princess. She always struggles with finding opportunities to take a break from her royal duties. This is the first time in a while since I've seen her so laidback. If Twilight's able to relax, then I think you should take the chance as well. Phoenix: I know, but I can't help but feel like I should be working right now. What if there's a client at our office that needs help, and we aren't there? Spike: It's really bothering you, huh? Phoenix: I'm supposed to be the boss. It's my job to make sure that the office doesn't go under, but, at the same time, I don't want us to just rush back home right as everyone's getting to know each other. Spike: Well, I'm sure everyone will understand why you'd want to go back. How about if Twilight just send YOU home first? Phoenix: No, I can't leave without them. I have to look after them, especially Trucy. Spike: You're pretty dead-set on leaving, aren't you? Phoenix: Don't get me wrong, it's great having a chance to come back and meet you all again, But I just can't relax when I know there's a chance that a client could need us. Spike: I understand. I'll get Twilight to send you all home. Phoenix: Thanks, Spike. Athena, Apollo, Trucy! Trucy: Yes, daddy? Apollo: Yeah, Mr. Wright? Athena: What is it, boss? Phoenix: I think it's time for us to head home. Trucy: What!? But we just got here! Phoenix: I know, but I can't help but think that there could be a potential client at the office that needs our help. Trucy: Aw, come on! You're being paranoid! Phoenix: I'm sorry, Trucy, but we shouldn't be taking any chances with this. We still have to find a way to pay the bills by the end of the month, and our clients and your shows are the only sources of income we have. Apollo: Mr. Wright has a point. I mean, the chances of a client knocking at our door are unlikely, but there's still a chance. Athena: You sure we can't stay a little longer? Phoenix: As much as I know you'd like to, we can't. Trucy: Oh, but it was having so much fun here... Phoenix: I know. I'm sorry, Trucy. Twilight: So, you really want to go back now? Phoenix: I don't mean anything by it, Twilight, but yes. We should really be getting back to work in our world. Rainbow: You sure you can't stay for the rest of the day? Phoenix: I'm sorry, but no. Pinkie: Oh, this reeks like cupcakes with dirt! Because it's a dirty cupcake and dirt tastes bad, and... Ohh... Trucy: Don't worry, Pinkie! I'm sure we'll have a chance to hang out again someday! Pinkie: Ok... Rarity: Well, it was lovely to see you again, Phoenix. And it was absolutely splendid to meet the rest of you, as well. Phoenix: It was great to see you guys again, too, Rarity. Twilight: So, are you all ready? Phoenix: We're ready. Athena: It was nice meeting you all! Twilight: Yeah, it was. Well, I guess we'll see you all another time. Goodbye... Phoenix... Apple Bloom: applejack! twilight! help! Applejack: Apple Bloom?! What's wrong? Apple Bloom: You... have to... come outside... right now! Phoenix: What's going on!? Apple Bloom: You! You come, too! Before they leave! Twilight: Apple Bloom, breathe! Before who leaves? Apple Bloom: No time to explain! Just follow me! Apollo: What just happened? Applejack: I don't know, but we gotta find out! Come on! Trucy: Wait, I'm so confused, what's going on? Are we not leaving yet? Athena: I don't know, but we won't find out anything by just standing here! Come on, everyone! Vamonos! Phoenix: You don't have to tell me twice! Let's go!

Scene 2
February 13, 12:45 PM Ponyville - Town Square Applejack: Slow down, Apple Bloom! What happened?! Apple Bloom: I, uhhhh, oh no! Are we too late? Where is... OH! There she is! Rainbow: Huh? Scootaloo: I'm telling you, I didn't do anything wrong! Guard #1: I'm sorry, Miss, but we're just following orders. Fluttershy: Oh my... Pinkie Pie: Hey, isn't that- Rainbow: oh no you don't! Guard #1: Miss, please stop resisting and step inside the carriage. Scootaloo: Please! I didn't do anything, I swear! Guard #2: That's enough! Get inside the carriage! Scootaloo: Somepony! Help me! Guard #2: get in the carriage now! Rainbow: HOLD IT! Scootaloo: Rainbow Dash! I knew you'd come save me! Guard #2: Ma'am, I will only ask you this once. Move aside. Rainbow: Not until you take those cuffs off of her! Guard #2: And what makes you think you have the right to order a member of the royal god around? You have no authority: you're just the MERE Element Bearer. Rainbow: I... I... GRAH! Phoenix: Wha... What's going on here? Guard #1: We have a warrant for the arrest of one Scootaloo. She's currently under suspicion of committing a serious crime, and must be brought in for questioning and trial. Rarity: That's ridiculous! What kind of crime is she even being accused of?! Guard #2: If you MUST know, she is being accused of committing a murder in the Everfree Forest last night. WHAT?! Applejack: Oh for pete's sake! She's just a filly! There's no way she could kill somepony! Scootaloo: Yeah, Applejack's right! I wasn't even in the Everfree Forest last night! 3 PSYCHE-LOCKS Phoenix: (Psyche-locks? So she's lying about not being in the Everfree Forest? But why?) ???: stop right there! Guard #2: Scram, kid! This doesn't concern you! Go play in the woods! ???: You let her go, you villain! HYAH! Guard #1: What the- ???: Let's see how you like THIS! Guard #1: Whoa! Hey! Put me down, kid! Guard #2: What are you doing, you little runt!? Are you trying to get arrested as well? ???: Guards like you make me sick! What right do you have to bear the armor of Her Highness?! Guard #2: Wh--!? ???: Now, let Miss Scootaloo go! Guard #2: You--! Are you threatening a member of the royal guard?! Phoenix: (Uh-oh. This is getting out of hand! I need to stop this kid before he does something he'll surely regret!) Hey, kid! Cut this out! C'mon, you're going to hurt someone! ???: You would deny justice from being delivered, villain? Very well, then taste the might of my sword! Phoenix: Villain? Gahk! (OW! That kid can hit HARD.) ???: Ha ha! Your stone is mine, you villain! You can't defeat me! Phoenix: (Oh no! That's... My Magatama!) Guard #3: Over there! ???: Grr! Rats! I can't take on this many... This isn't over, you hear!? Phoenix: hey! give me back my magatama! Athena: Don't worry, Boss! I'll catch him for you!

Scene 3
February 13, 12:50 PM Everfree Forest - Entrance Athena: I... GOTCHA! ???: Give back that stone, you ugly henchpony! Athena: Henchpony!? You take that back, kid! ???: Do not underestimate me! I shall strike you down where you stand! En garde! ???: Turning Page! Come here now! TURNING PAGE! Do NOT make me repeat myself! Turning: Yes, mom! Don't think you've won yet, fiend! I will return and stand victorious over you and your villainous ways! Athena: (Jeez...gimme a break, will ya, you little thief.) Luckily, I managed to catch him before he made it inside this forest. I'm not sure I would've been able to keep track of him in there. I'd probably end up getting lost. I wonder if this is the "Everfree Forest" that that guard was talking about? If so, then the murder must have happened somewhere in there. Phoenix: Athena! Oh man... You run... so fast... I don't think my body was built for this... Athena: Ha! That was nothing, Boss. Just a casual morning jog! Phoenix: What's it like to be young? Athena: Oh, you're not THAT old. But, speaking of young, what happened to that filly? Was she arrested? Twilight: Yeah, they took her away right after you left. Rainbow: How could they do that!? There's no way a kid like Scootaloo could ever kill anypony! Have the guards lost their minds!? Apollo: Well, I imagine there must have been at least some grounds for suspecting her. Phoenix: ... Apple Bloom: Th-There's no way! Scootaloo wouldn't hurt a fly! And besides, she said herself that she didn't even go into the forest last night! Athena: (Huh? That's odd. Apple Bloom speaks so confidently, but her voice... Am I detecting uncertainty? Does she think Scootaloo might've gone into the forest last night? I wonder...) Apple Bloom: Mr. Lawyer.. You have to help her, just like how you helped Rainbow Dash last time! Please! Rainbow: Yeah! That's right. 'Nix can save her without even breaking a sweat! Phoenix: Of course. I'm certainly not going to turn my back on someone who you guys think is innocent. Rainbow: Alright! I'm counting on-- Athena: Hold on, Boss. Phoenix: What is it, Athena? Athena: I... umm... Would it be all right... if I led this case? Phoenix: Hmm? Athena: I just... Apple Bloom: ... Athena: I have a feeling that there's something to this case that might warrant my psychological expertise. The defendant is only a kid, after all. I can't imagine this will be an easy experience for her to deal with. Apollo: Tell me about it. I had to defend a kid once: it certainly wasn't easy for me. I'm not exactly great with kids. Phoenix: Well... Athena: Please, Mr. Wright. I can handle this, trust me. Let me defend Scootaloo. After all, I know more than any of us what it's like to be involved in a murder trial as a kid... Phoenix: ... That's a fair point, Athena. Alright, if you're that adamant about it, I can let you take the lead for this case. What do you think, Rainbow? Apple Bloom? Rainbow: ...If 'Nix trusts you, then so do I. Apple Bloom: Same here. Thank ya kindly, Miss. Athena: N-no problem! I promise, I won't let any of you down! Twilight: I hate to rain on your parade, but if you're going to defend in an Equestrian courthouse, you're going to need an Equestrian attorney's badge. Athena: Oh... right... And I don't have one of those... Phoenix: Perhaps it's not too late to get one. Twilight, how does one get a badge like that? Twilight: Well, normally, you'd have to go through law school. However, since Athena here is already a lawyer, we should be able to make an appeal to the Equestria High Council. Athena: The Equestria High Council... You mentioned them yesterday, didn't you? When you were explaining how you were able to be Mr. Wright's co-counsel, despite not being a Princess. It was because you made an appeal to them, right? Phoenix: I recall hearing about them as well, on my first visit to this world. Twilight: Originally, Princess Celestia was going to preside as a judge, but the High Council members were concerned that her verdict might be biased. Phoenix: But, isn't this princess the ruler of your country? Can't she just say "Too bad, I'm doing it anyway?" Twilight: Princess Celestia is our all-powerful ruler, yes, but every political decision must go by the High Council first. They represent the best interests of the citizens of Equestria. Naturally, this case went by them, and they wouldn't allow the princess to preside as the judge. Phoenix: sigh That's democracy for you... Phoenix: You told me back then that they "represent the best interests" of Equestria citizens. They even have the power to overrule the Princess's authority in some cases, isn't that right? Twilight: Yes, that's correct. The Equestria High Council is made up of six ponies. Five are elected by the general populace from various administrative positions. The sixth member, known as the Lawkeeper, is the head of the High Council. They are elected by the council members themselves whenever the previous Lawkeeper either retires or passes away. The duty of the High Council is to speak for the citizens of Equestria when it comes to making political decisions that affect our country. They advise the princesses when making such decisions, and can even overrule their authority in a majority vote. Apollo: Hmm, sounds like a pretty basic checks and balances system. Phoenix: But that's not all they do, right? They have some sway in the legal world as well, correct? Twilight: Yes, they are responsible for acting as a jury for certain "special" trials held in the Canterlot Royal Court. And, if you want to stand in court as an attorney without having gone through the typical procedures, you must get permission from both them AND Princess Celestia. Athena: So, what should I do, then? Is it not possible for me to get a badge in time? Twilight: Hmm, well, I think there might be a chance you could. Since you're an acquaintance of myself and Mr. Wright, it shouldn't be too hard to write an appeal for you and Apollo. Apollo: Whoa, wait a second! I never asked for a badge! Twilight: Well, if we're getting one for Athena, I don't see the harm in getting one for you as well. You never know - you might use it someday. Apollo: I doubt it. Twilight: Spike, can you get on that? Spike: Yes, ma'am! Phoenix: How long will it take to hear back from them, Twilight? Twilight: It shouldn't take too long, especially since they'll likely prioritize an appeal from a princess. Phoenix: Like Celestia did for you the last time I was here? Twilight: Exactly. We should hear back from them by the end of the day. Apollo: Uh, isn't that a little fast? Even if they read your request, and responded right away, what about the time it'd take to deliver those messages? Twilight: Well, Spike can send messages instantly using his fire breath. Apollo: ... What? Twilight: Once Spike writes a letter, all he has to do is breathe fire on it, and it'll send the parchment to where he wants it to go. Apollo: That... No, that doesn't make any sense! Twilight: What do you mean? Apollo: He's burning the paper! How does it get sent anywhere!? Twilight: Dragon magic. Apollo: I... I'm sorry, but that's not a sufficient answer for me. First off... Phoenix: Apollo, give it up. You're not going to win. Trucy: Yeah, Polly, c'mon. I've already figured it out! It's not that complicated. Apollo: Trucy, not now, please... Twilight: However, it is true that there could be a delay in hearing back from them. They don't exactly have a dragon to send letters with. A mail pony will come by the castle later to drop off their response, and hopefully, the badges as well. Phoenix: In that case, it's probably best if I investigate with Athena. If she's unable to defend tomorrow, then I'm going to have to do it. Twilight: And I'll come with you, just so you have someone who's knowledgeable about this world by your side. Apple Bloom: I want to come too! I won't let them call Scootaloo a criminal! Twilight: Apple Bloom, we went over this last time. This isn't exactly the kind of thing a filly like you should be doing. Apple Bloom: If I recall, last time we investigated together, I found some pretty important evidence for you. I think I've proven myself when it comes to this "investigatin'" stuff. Twilight: ... Okay. If I say no, you'll just find a way to tag along anyway. At least this way I can keep an eye on you, so that you don't get lost or mess up the crime scene. Apple Bloom: Yay! Cutie Mark Crusader Private Investigator! Twilight: I don't think any more of us should go, though. We don't want to unintentionally disrupt the investigation by having too many of us there. Not to mention the Everfree Forest isn't exactly the safest place to be. Apollo, Trucy, Spike, and Rainbow Dash, would you all mind heading back to the castle, and letting everypony know what's going on? Spike: No problem, Twilight! And I'll get that appeal written and send as soon as I get back. Apollo: Might as well, right? Rainbow: ... Twilight: Rainbow? Rainbow: You... ARE going to save her, right, Athena? Athena: Of course, Rainbow. You can count on me! Rainbow: ... Trucy: Don't worry, Rainbow Dash. Athena's got drive, guts, tenacity, and especially, courage like you've never seen before. Even when the situation is at its bleakest, Athena can power through and force her biggest smile. She'll fight for Scootaloo until the bitter end, dragging out the truth along the way. You can count on her. Athena: ... Rainbow: Drive, guts, tenacity... and courage, huh? Athena: (Hmm? Do I sense some... nostalgia behind those words?) Rainbow: Thanks, Trucy. Alright, guys, we'll be heading off now. Spike: See you when you get back! Stay safe! Twilight: All right, we should probably get going. Athena: Do we even know where the murder occurred, though? I know it was somewhere in this forest, but... Twilight: Don't worry, I asked the guards for more information on the crime. They were willing to tell a princess like me the details. Well, one of them was, at least. Follow me.

Scene 4
February 13, 1:05 PM Everfree Forest - Crossroads Athena: Uh, what was that? Twilight: A timberwolf, probably. Athena: Wh-What's a timberwolf? Twilight: They're a breed of magical dogs that live in this forest. As the name suggests, their bodies are made of timber and leaves, and they can even reassemble themselves if they get injured. Athena: L-Like a zombie!? Twilight: I... guess that's an apt comparison. Phoenix: I suppose that answers that question, then. Twilight: What question? Phoenix: Do you remember what happened to me the last time I was here? I was knocked out, and left stranded in this forest. Fluttershy had to save me from some vicious dogs that seemed to me like they were made out of wood. If I remember correctly, she said... Fluttershy: Those species of lupine are known to rip their prey apart within a few seconds. Twilight: Those sound like timberwolves, all right. Phoenix: I had always wondered what those creatures were, exactly. Now I know, I guess. Doesn't make recalling that experience any less traumatizing, though. Athena: Jeez, we're only about five minutes into this forest, and already it's giving me the creeps. Twilight: Don't worry, as long as we stick to the path, we should be fine. Many deadly creatures, like the timberwolves, live in this forest, but if we don't venture into the woods themselves, we shouldn't come across any. Athena: (Oh, good. So there's a ton of vicious animals in here just waiting to kill me. Awesome.) Phoenix: Although, didn't you say last time that the more dangerous creatures live much further into the forest, Twilight? That barking sounds relatively close by, and like Athena said, we haven't been walking for that long. Twilight: Timberwolves are probably the one exception to that. Many of them inhabit areas very close to the forest's edge. Luckily, they never seem to leave the forest itself, which is good for all of us living in Ponyville. Timberwolves added to the Court Record. Athena: Why in the world was your town founded right next to such a dangerous forest in the first place!? Twilight: It's uh, it's a long story. I'm sure Apple Bloom can tell you if you're really interested - it involves the timberwolves, funnily enough. Right now, though, we should get going. Athena: Which way? It seems like the path splits in three different directions here. Twilight: We have to keep going straight to reach the crime scene. Athena: What's down the other paths? Twilight: The right path leads to Froggy Bottom Bog - it's a swamp full of dangerous, aquatic animals, and a place where many strange plants grow. The left path leads to the Nightmare Night Statue, only about a three minute walk away. Athena: Nightmare Night statue? Twilight: As much as I'd love to explain, we really ought to move on. We shouldn't be in this forest longer than we have to, and we definitely don't want to be in here after dark. Phoenix: Oh, that's right. The Everfree Forest is pitch black at night, isn't it? Twilight: Well, the moon would be shining, so the path itself, and other areas where there are no trees, wouldn't quite be pitch black. But anywhere else, the trees are so thick that it may as well be. Sunlight can barely get through those trees during the day; there's no way any moonlight is going to get through them. Apple Bloom: Ugh, don't remind me... Phoenix: Oh, yeah. You got lost in here last time, didn't you, Apple Bloom? Apple Bloom: Yeah, I couldn't even see my own hoof in front of my face once I ran off the path. Twilight: Anyway, let's continue. There's someone I think we should talk to first before we reach the crime scene. Luckily, it's on the way to it, so we won't need to make too much of a detour. Phoenix: Lead the way, Twilight.

Scene 5
February 13, 1:27 PM Everfree Forest - Zecora's Hut Athena: Hold up. Is that a house? Twilight: Yup. Athena: You mean someone actually LIVES in this forest!? Twilight: Uh-huh. A good friend of mine named Zecora. Apple Bloom: She's an excellent potion-maker! She and Twilight taught me everythin' I know 'bout brewin' potions. Phoenix: Oh right, I think I remember you mentioning her at some point the last time I was here. Apple Bloom: Yeah! She's from some foreign land, apparently. She came to Equestria to expand her knowledge of potion making by experimentin' with plants and other stuff not found in her home country. Twilight: Huh, that's interesting. I didn't actually know that. Athena: So, Twilight, was this who you wanted to talk to before we got to the crime scene? Twilight: Yeah, I figured she might have witnessed something related to the murder, given that she lives in this forest and all. Phoenix: That's a good idea - let's go ask her. Twilight: Wait, stop! Phoenix: What is it? Athena: What's wrong, Twilight? Twilight: Sorry, I just wanted to warn you to stay away from that patch of blue flowers there. Apple Bloom, you remember what this is, right? Apple Bloom: 'Course I do, Twilight. That's that "poison joke" that you and the others stepped in that one time. Hehehe, I still remember that like it was yesterday. This was so hilarious! Athena: Uh, so what does that flower do, exactly? Twilight: It's a very bizarre kind of flower. If you touch it, it'll play an ironic joke on you. My friends and I once stumbled into a patch of this stuff. The next day, we woke up to find that our bodies had been altered. I, for example, had my horn rendered floppy and completely useless. Apple Bloom: And my sister became so tiny, that she could ride on top of me! Twilight: Luckily, it's not contagious. You have to physically touch the plant to be affected. Athena: (Good thing she stopped us. I almost walked right through them. I wonder what they would've done to me? Take away my hearing?) Poison Joke Added to the Court Record. Athena: Is there, uh, anything else around here we should be wary of? Twilight: Hmm, I don't think so - that was the only thing I spotted. Phoenix: Then let's go ask Zecora what we need to ask her. Twilight: Right. Zecora! It's Twilight! Could you come out? I need to talk to you! Zecora? Doesn't sound like she's home - I guess she must be out gathering herbs, or something. Phoenix: I'm not so sure about that, Twilight. Look here. See this mail? Notice how this one letter looks much dirtier compared to the others? I can only assume that this has been sitting here for a while. Apple Bloom: That doesn't make any sense. Zecora always brings her mail in right away, so that it doesn't end up like this. Phoenix: I thought that'd be the case. Twilight: So, the fact that the mail is dirty means... Phoenix: Yeah. I think it's safe to say that Zecora hasn't had a chance to return home for a good while, perhaps even a full day. Athena: Hey, Boss, you don't think she could be... the victim of this case, do you? Apple Bloom: What!? NO! She can't be! She was just... out collecting plants all night. Right, Mr. Lawyer? Phoenix: I don't think so, Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom: Wh-What...? Phoenix: Oh no no no, don't worry. I'm not saying that she's the victim. If she was, there'd be police officers here, combing her house for clues. Since there aren't any, I think it's safe to say that she's okay. Apple Bloom: Oh... Okay... That's... That's good, then. Athena: (Whoa... The relief in her voice... It's so powerful. She must really care about Zecora. I... I should probably apologize to her later for blurting that out.) Phoenix: However, I DO think this could mean she's at least connected to our case. Twilight: How so? Phoenix: I can't say for certain, but if she's been away from her hut for some time, it's possible it could be because she was taken in for some questioning. Apple Bloom: Wow. You got all that, just from that one letter? Phoenix: Well, it's just a guess for now - I have no way to prove that I'm right, but yeah, that's what this letter tells me. Twilight: Huh? Hey, Phoenix, could I see that letter for a second? Phoenix: Uh, sure. Twilight: Just as I thought. Apple Bloom: What is it, Twi? Athena: Did you find something? Twilight: I did. Look at this seal. Apple Bloom: Hey, I think I've seen it before. Wasn't it... during our last investigation? Twilight: You're right, Apple Bloom. This is the Canterlot Royal Seal. Athena: What does that mean? Twilight: It means that this letter was sent to Zecora by one of the princesses residing in Canterlot - Equestria's capital. Dirty Letter Added to the Court Record. Twilight: Why would the princesses want to get in touch with Zecora of all creatures? Phoenix: It's certainly intriguing, but now's not the time to be concerning ourselves with that. We should keep moving towards the crime scene. Twilight: You're right. I'll put Zecora's letter back in her mailbox. We shouldn't be invading her privacy like this, after all. The crime scene should only be another fifteen minutes away. Let's get going.

Scene 6
February 13, 1:45 PM Everfree Forest - Castle Gorge Athena: Whoa! What is THAT!? Phoenix: They look like... castle ruins. Twilight: Well, that's exactly what they are. Those ruins were once a place known as The Castle of the Two Sisters. It was where Equestria's current rulers - Princesses Celestia and Luna - used to live. Athena: Interesting! What happened? Twilight: It's a long story: one that doesn't exactly have a pleasant ending. Maybe I'll tell you about it after this case is over. Athena: (There seem to be a lot of "long stories" here that I need to ask these people, er, ponies about. The founding of Ponyville, the Castle of the Two Sisters: I wonder what else I can learn about this world?) ???: Oh? Hello there. What might you folks be up to? Phoenix: Huh... Oh, err...good afternoon! ???: Are you alright, sir? You seem a bit taken aback. Phoenix: Ah! Uh, yes um, sorry. It's just... your hat reminds me of someone I met once, a long time ago. ???: Ah, well, no need for apologies, my friend. Twilight: Pardon me, sir, but we're here to investigate the murder that occurred here last night. ???: Princess Twilight! What an honor it is to be in your noble presence, Your Highness. Twilight: Uh, thank you. You really don't have to address me like that... or bow. ???: Hoho! You are far too modest, Princess! How could I not, after all you have done for Equestria? Athena: (Talk about being out of the loop. How much has Twilight helped this world?) Phoenix: Yep. You definitely remind me of him... ???: And who might you be, miss? Athena: Oh, uh, my name is Athena Cykes. I'm the defense attorney for this case. (Miss, eh? I think I'm gonna like this guy!) ???: A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ms. Cykes. And what about you, little one? Apple Bloom: I'm Apple Bloom. It's nice to meet you, Mister. ???: The feeling is mutual, Apple Bloom. And you, good sir? Phoenix: Phoenix Wright. ???: The very same? From yesterday's trial, and the TS-5 case? Phoenix: You got it. Private Eye: Well, it is certainly a pleasure to meet you all. My name is Private Eye. I'm the lead investigator for this case. Twilight: You're the lead investigator? No offense, but shouldn't the investigation be led by somepony from Ponyville? I don't think I've ever seen you around town before. Private Eye: Quite right, Princess. I am not from Ponyville. I hail from Canterlot. The reason I'm leading this investigation is because Princess Celestia ordered me to. Twilight: Princess Celestia? Private Eye: Indeed. As soon as the murder was reported, she requested that I take charge of this particular case. Twilight: Why you? Private Eye: Well, that's... I'm sorry, Princess. As much as I wish I could tell you, I'm afraid that, if I revealed anything, Princess Celestia would be...less than pleased, you see. Twilight: Oh... I see... Athena: (What? Why did Twilight sound... so dejected?) Phoenix: ... Private Eye: So, you are here to investigate the crime scene, correct? Athena: Yes, we are. We need to build our case to defend Scootaloo after all. Private Eye: Ah, yes. The little filly who was arrested as the suspect. Personally, I find it hard to believe that she is responsible; we found no link between her and the victim, after all. But alas, the evidence pointed to her as the culprit, so we had no choice but to issue a warrant for her arrest. Athena: (No link, huh? So that means there's no motive for Scootaloo to commit this crime. I wonder how the prosecution plans to counter THAT issue.) Private Eye: So long as you are the defense attorney for this case, and especially if you have Princess Twilight's permission, then you are free to investigate the crime scene. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Athena: Thank you, sir. Private Eye: Think nothing of it, miss. Twilight: ... Athena: (Twilight still seems really out of it. I wonder what's bugging her? ) Hey, Twilight, you okay? Twilight: Y-Yeah, I'm fine. Let's begin the investigation. Athena: (The emotions I'm hearing say otherwise, Twilight, but I suppose that's a can of worms that can wait to be opened.) Phoenix: All right, Athena, so what's our first step going to be? Athena: Well, uh... first... I'd like to know more about the victim. Can you tell me anything about them, Private Eye? Private Eye: W-Well, now. You see, that's a matter I've been instructed to keep quiet about, I'm afraid. Twilight: Wait, seriously? You can't even tell us who the victim is? Private Eye: Well, not so much YOU, Princess. Just...the general public... Such as miss Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom: Huh? Me? Twilight: Private Eye, I promise you, it's fine. Apple Bloom here won't say anything that will cause any trouble for you. Right, Apple Bloom? Apple Bloom: Yup! You can trust me! My lips are zipped, Mister! Private Eye: Very well. The victim's name is Royal Order, a member of Princess Celestia's royal guard back in Canterlot. He had just come home to Ponyville last night, you see. His wife confirmed that he arrived home that night, alive and well, at half past nine. However, for whatever reason, he decided to leave soon afterwards, and she never saw him alive again. Athena: Royal guard? So that's why... Private Eye: Precisely. We're doing our best not to make the citizenry panic. Phoenix: So, the victim had a family? Private Eye: Yes, a wife and son. I have a photo of them here, if you wish to see them. Athena: Wait! That kid... That's the same one from earlier, isn't it? Twilight: It sure looks like him. So he's the victim's son, then? Athena: What was he trying to do before, anyway? Twilight: He seemed intent on stopping the guards from arresting Scootaloo. Athena: Are they friends or something? Twilight: I'm not sure. I've never seen her hanging out with him before. Apple Bloom: ... Private Eye: His name is Turning Page. Unfortunately, we don't know where he was, or what he was doing last night. His mother said that he wasn't at home when Royal Order arrived. Athena: (I wonder if he has some sort of connection to this case, then. It'd be a good idea to track him down and talk to him. At the very least, he should be able to tell me more about his father, and I'd like to know what kind of connection he has with Scootaloo as well.) Is there any word on the cause of death? Private Eye: Unfortunately, the body is still undergoing autopsy, so we cannot be certain as of yet. However, the leading theory is that he died from blood loss due to a small stab wound to the right side of his head. Phoenix: A stab wound to the head? That's kind of an odd place to stab someone, don't you think? Private Eye: We thought so, as well. We're hoping to find a reason for that once the autopsy is complete. Athena: When you say "small stab wound," just how small are you talking? Private Eye: Every puzzle has an answer. Look no further than that scooter over there, Ms. Cykes. Athena: Huh? Twilight: !!! That scooter...! And that wagon...! Athena: What is it, Twilight? Twilight: Those... Those are Scootaloo's! Athena: What!? Apple Bloom: ... Twilight: Wh-What are THESE doing here? Private Eye: We found the victim's body sitting right in front of that scooter. If you look at the left handle, you'll notice that it's broken, and caked in blood. Tests confirmed that the blood belonged to Royal Order. Phoenix: You're right. The handle looks like it was snapped off. Only the metal bolt is still intact. Athena: Wait, are you telling me that the victim was stabbed... with the scooter?! Private Eye: That is our current interpretation of the facts, yes. The stab wound on the victim's head appears to be a perfect match with the metal bolt on this scooter. We confirmed it just before the victim's body was taken away for autopsy. Athena: That's... That's insane! How would that even be possible!? And for a little kid, no less!? Private Eye: We have a theory at the moment, but we'll have to wait until the autopsy is complete to be sure. Athena: (And until it's certain. I suppose I shouldn't be expecting an answer.) Phoenix: Hmm? Athena: What is it, Boss? Phoenix: It looks like the handle isn't the only part of the scooter that's broken. Look at the front wheels. Athena: Huh? They're... twisted and bent. Private Eye: Sharp eye, Mr. Wright. We tested it earlier, and confirmed that this scooter no longer works - it can't move an inch on its wheels. Athena: (That sounds like it could be an important detail.) Scootaloo's Scooter Added to the Court Record. Twilight: Apple Bloom, you wouldn't happen to know how the scooter ended up like this, would you? Apple Bloom: S-Sorry, Twi, I have no idea. The last time I saw the scooter, it was workin' fine. Twilight: When WAS the last time you saw it? Apple Bloom: Uh... Yesterday afternoon. Around 3:30pm. Twilight: And what about Scootaloo? Do you know where she was, or what she was doing yesterday? Apple Bloom: We were hangin' out all day yesterday. We each went home around 3:30, so... Ah... Ah can't say Ah know what she did afterwards. Athena: (I didn't even need my hearing to know that you're hiding something, Apple Bloom. But what? I doubt she'll tell me without direct evidence, especially if she's hiding the reason to protect her friend from suspicion.) Phoenix: What's up with the wagon attached to the scooter? Apple Bloom: That's what Sweetie Belle and I ride in when we're with Scootaloo. Phoenix: I see. It looks like something else has hitched a ride this time, though. Twilight: Let's see here; two red capes, and a roll of golden silk? Athena: Hey, these capes have some sort of emblem on them. Apple Bloom: Yup! That there's the emblem of the Cutie Mark Crusaders! Athena: Cutie Mark Crusaders? Apple Bloom: That's what Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and I call ourselves! Ever since we first met, we were all so eager to get our cutie marks! So, we started a club dedicated to tryin' out all kinds of things in hopes of makin' our marks appear! Athena: Is that... how that works? Twilight: No, but no matter how many times we tell them, they just don't need to listen. Private Eye: Haha. You needn't worry, Princess. I'm sure it's simply a phase. Apple Bloom: All this work'll pay off someday. Just you wait. My friends and I are goin' to get the best, most amazin' marks anypony's ever seen. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon won't be laughin' at us then. Athena: Who? Apple Bloom: Uh... D-Don't worry about it for now. We gotta focus on savin' Scootaloo! Athena: (Et tu, Apple Bloom!?) Phoenix: Right... so this means that these capes belong to you and your friends, Apple Bloom? Apple Bloom: That's right. Phoenix: But you mentioned that the Cutie Mark Crusaders have three members, right? So, why are there only TWO capes? Apple Bloom: I'm not sure... Private Eye: The third cape is in police custody. It is currently undergoing examination, the results of which, I assume, will be announced at the trial. Athena: (Hmm, I wonder why just one of the capes was taken, and not the other two?) Huh? Wait a second. These capes are lined with gold silk on the inside. Phoenix: It looks like it's the same as the gold silk in the wagon. Apple Bloom: Yeah. Sweetie Belle was the one who made the capes - she used some of Rarity's custom-made golden silk to line the inside. Athena: So this "Sweetie Belle"... She knows Rarity, then? Apple Bloom: 'Course she knows her! She's her little sister. Athena: (I wonder if she's just as dramatic and over-the-top as Rarity.) CMC Capes Added to the Court Record. Roll of Golden Silk Added to the Court Record. Twilight: Apple Bloom, do you have any idea why this stuff is here - the scooter, the wagon, the capes, and the roll of golden silk? Apple Bloom: I, uh... Huh? Phoenix: What's wrong? Apple Bloom: There's a mark on the floor of the wagon - look. Athena: You're right - it looks like... a hoof? Though, it looks incredibly small. Phoenix: What's it been left in, dried mud? Twilight: Looks like it. Private Eye: Right you are. We're not entirely certain what this means or if it's even relevant. We can't even tell what it's meant to be an imprint of. Apple Bloom: Well, it must have been made last night, 'cause it sure wasn't there yesterday. Scootaloo's Wagon Added to the Court Record. Private Eye: Is that so? Hmm... How perplexing. Twilight: Hmm? Phoenix: What is it, Twilight? Twilight: I thought I saw something glinting. Right here. See? Phoenix: Hmm. These look like... glass shards? Athena: Wow! These things are TINY! I'm surprised you caught them, Twilight. Twilight: Hehe, thanks. Private Eye: Careful analysis of those shards revealed that they belonged to a pair of near-sighted glasses. Phoenix: Do you know who they belong to? Private Eye: Not a clue - neither the victim nor the suspect wear glasses, so it's possible these were here before the crime even took place. Glass Shards Added to the Court Record. Athena: Hey, let's down that staircase? Twilight: It's, uh... let's just say it's something important and leave it at that. Trust me, we do not need to get into that whole story right now. Athena: (After this is over, I'm gonna drag the answers out of you, Twilight!) Twilight: I think that just about covers the crime scene investigation, though. Unless there's something else you can tell us, Private Eye? Private Eye: In regards to the crime scene, there's nothing more I can say - you all did a splendid job uncovering every clue that my team and I managed to discover. However, there is one more detail you should probably know. Phoenix: Oh? What's that? Private Eye: I assume you are familiar with the Nightmare Night statue, Princess? Twilight: Of course. Private Eye: Well, we're not certain if it's connected to this crime, but we discovered something... rather peculiar behind that statue. Twilight: What was it? Private Eye: Blood. Twilight: B-Blood!? Athena: How could that NOT be related to the case!? Private Eye: Because it's not the victim's, you see. Phoenix: The blood... isn't the victim's? Private Eye: Correct. That's why we're uncertain if it has anything to do with the case or not. And that's why I think you should see it for yourselves - perhaps you'll discover something we didn't. Twilight: I think we'll do just that. Thank you, Private Eye. Private Eye: You are more than welcome, Princess. And please, simply "Private" is fine with me. Athena: All right, let's get going, then. Private Eye: Ah, one moment. There are two more things I would like to give you - these diagrams the police made. One of the Everfree Forest... ...And one of the crime scene. I think you'll find the most useful. Take care! Everfree Forest Diagram Added to the Court Record. Crime Scene Diagram Added to the Court Record. Athena: Thank you, sir. Alright, guys, let's go.

Scene 7
February 13, 2:10 PM Everfree Forest - Pathway Twilight: It'll likely be another thirty minute walk back to where the path splits. You should probably take this time to familiarize yourself with the path, Athena - it could be useful to know exactly how the forest is laid out. Athena: Roger that. Twilight. Phoenix: Hold up, where's Apple Bloom? Athena: Huh? Phoenix: She was right behind us a second ago. Apple Bloom: I'm comin', I'm comin'! Twilight: Apple Bloom, what were you doing? Apple Bloom: Sorry, Twi. I... I didn't realize y'all were leavin' already. Athena: (Was she not paying attention to her conversation earlier?) Apple Bloom: Anyway, where are we headed? Twilight: The Nightmare Night statue...? Apple Bloom: Alright, cool, let's get moving! Athena: Is it just me, or has Apple Bloom been acting... off... ever since we started investigating the scooter and wagon at the crime scene? Twilight: No, I've noticed it too. She never even answered my question about why those things were there. Phoenix: She clearly knows more than she's letting on - perhaps she's trying to hide something from us in order to protect Scootaloo? Twilight: That's what I thought, too. But, how are we going to get her to open up? Athena: Well, I can try. I can't guarantee that she'll open up completely, but I might be able to squeeze some information out of her. Phoenix: If anyone can get her to talk, it's you, Athena. Go for it. Athena: On it, Boss! Hey, Apple Bloom. Mind if I walk with you? Apple Bloom: Oh? Uh, sure, Miss Cykes. Athena: Thank you, and please, call me Athena. Hey, uh, I'm sorry about what I said earlier. You know, about Zecora. Apple Bloom: Oh... Don't worry about it. You... You were just sayin' what you were thinkin. Nothin' wrong with that. Athena: Right... um... So, how did you and your friends first meet? Apple Bloom: Well, we became friends because we were the only fillies in our class who hadn't yet gotten a cutie mark. Ah was bein' bullied by these two other fillies - Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon - and Scototaloo and and Sweetie Belle stood up for me. Ever since then, we've been the best of friends, and formed the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Athena: You all enjoy each other's company, don't you? Apple Bloom: Of course! We have lots of fun together, and... we're always there for each other, through thick and thin. We're like... a family. Ah couldn't imagine life without them by mah side. Athena: A family, huh... I think I get what you mean. It's the same for me, with Mr. Wright, Apollo, and Trucy. Apple Bloom: Are they those other humans you were with? Athena: Yeah. It's strange... I haven't even been with them for a year, but I can't imagine life without THEM, either. They're always there for me, too. Even during one of the worst experiences I ever had... Apple Bloom: What was that like? Athena: I... don't think it's something I should be talking to you about. Let's just say, if it weren't for my friends, I definitely wouldn't be here right now. They helped me out when I needed it most... in more ways than one. Apple Bloom: ... Then I guess that's what we should be doing for Scootaloo, right? Sweetie Belle and I both. Athena: I'm sure she'd appreciate that very much, but don't go getting yourself into trouble. Apple Bloom: Don't worry, Athena. I'm gonna uncover the clue that'll save the day, you'll see! Athena: I'm sure you will, Apple Bloom.

Scene 8
February 13, 2:44 PM Everfree Forest - Nightmare Night Statue Twilight: Well, here we are. Phoenix: So, this is the Nightmare Night statue, huh? Twilight: Uh-huh. Phoenix: It's extravagant, I'll give it that. Athena: What's it here for? Apple Bloom: It's for Nightmare Night! It's a holiday where fillies and colts go from house-to-house collecting candy. And then, at the end of the night, we all come here, and give up some of our candy so that Nightmare Moon won't gobble us up! Phoenix: So, it's like Halloween, then. Apple Bloom: Hall-o... what? Phoenix: Uh, never mind. Athena: So, this statue... Is this "Nightmare Moon?" Apple Bloom: Yup. Back when she was still evil. Athena: "Still" evil? Twilight: Why don't we talk about this another time? Let's investigate what we came here to see. Athena: (What is with all the deflecting and cryptic clues today? It can't be that hard to just explain it, can it?) Phoenix: Private Eye said that there were small traces of blood behind the statue, right? Blood that didn't belong to the victim. Athena: Let's go take a look. Twilight: There it is. Apple Bloom: Ulp. I think I'm going to be sick... Twilight: I warned you, Apple Bloom. This isn't really the kind of thing a filly like you should be doing. Apple Bloom: No. No, I... I have to do this, for Scootaloo. Twilight: ... Alright, if you say so. Phoenix: I don't think this is enough blood to have been from anything fatal, but the real puzzle is what it's doing here in the first place. Athena: So, you really think this pool of blood has nothing to do with the case? Phoenix: Hmm... Oh, wait! Athena! Do you still have that forensic flashlight on you? Athena: I do. Oh, I see. You want me to use it to check for any blood that might've been wiped away, right? Phoenix: Exactly. Athena: Alright, give me a second. Here goes nothing! Huh?! Twilight: There... There really WAS more blood! Phoenix: Come on! Let's follow it! Apple Bloom: aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh! Twilight: Apple Bloom! Shh, calm down, it's okay. Apple Bloom: ... Athena: Oh... my... That's... a lot of blood. Widget: Urp! Phoenix: No kidding. The amount that was visible may not have been fatal, but this... there's no way someone could still be alive after losing this much blood. Twilight: What... what does this mean? Did the crime actually occur here? Phoenix: No, it couldn't have, remember? This ISN'T Royal Order's blood. Twilight: But, if it's not the victim's blood... Athena: Then whose is it? Phoenix: I have no idea. But whoever's blood it is, they are unmistakably dead. Twilight: Wait, you mean this case... might have a SECOND victim? Phoenix: I can't say for certain, but... I wouldn't rule out the possibility. Athena: (This is insane! Just what is going ON here!?) Statue Bloodstain Added to the Court Record. ???: HYAAAAH!!! Athena: Oof! Turning: I finally found you, you ugly henchpony! You thought you could hide for me in this forest!? Ha! No such luck! Phoenix: Athena! Turning: Stand back, you spiky-haired villain! I'm interrogating your henchpony, and I will not allow you to interfere! Phoenix: Oww! Watch it! Turning: Now, tell me, what is it that you're doing here? Looking to cover up evidence? Trying to frame Miss Scootaloo for a crime she didn't commit? How vile! Athena: Hold on! I'm not trying to do anything like that! I'm trying to save her! Turning: A likely story. I saw you and this other... creature... with those disrespectful guards earlier - you were trying to stop me from saving Miss Scootaloo. That must mean you want her arrested and found guilty of a murder she's innocent of! A truly villainous act! Athena: No! You have it all wrong! Twilight: If I may interject...! Turning: And who would dare...? P-Princess Twilight! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to shout at you! Please, punish me however you wish! Twilight: It's... alright. I'm not going to punish you. Turning: R-Really? Twilight: Yes, really. Although, I WOULD like to ask you to please stop attacking these two "humans." Turning: But... But they were trying to get Miss Scootaloo arrested! They're villains, Princess! We have to stop them, and save her! Twilight: No, they're not villains. They're trying to save Scootaloo as well. Turning: T-They are? Twilight: Yes. We all are. Turning: But then, why did they try to stop me earlier? Twilight: They were trying to stop you from getting into trouble. Attacking royal guards is a serious offense, and so is helping somepony resist arrest. You're lucky you both are just kids. The guards were willing to let it slide. Turning: O-Oh... I didn't know that. I thought... I thought I was helping... I'm sorry I attacked you. I thought you were working against Miss Scootaloo. Phoenix: It's fine. At least no one was seriously hurt. Right, Athena? Athena: Y-Yeah... I'm all good. (I hope that kid didn't do something to my back. I am too young to start turning into Mr. Wright!) Twilight: Now, while you are here, we would like to ask you a few questions. Turning: M-Me? Twilight: You are Turning Page, are you not? Royal Order's son? Turning: Y-Yeah... Twilight: I understand this may be a hard time for you, but we need to ask you some questions about... what happened last night. Turning: ... Athena: (We'll need to handle this delicately, otherwise, he might clam up on us.) Let me take it from here, Twilight. Twilight: Sure thing, Athena. Turning: ... Athena: (Let's start with something a little bit more innocent. Once we learn more about him, it should be easier to approach the topic of his father.) So, Turning, you know Scootaloo? Turning: Yeah! She and I are friends! Look at this ribbon she gave me yesterday! Athena: And what was this for? Turning: It was a thank-you gift for standing by her side when she was confronting a pair of bullies. It means a lot to me. Athena: Bullies? Turning: Yeah, there were these two bullies who were causing trouble for Miss Scootaloo and her friends yesterday, so I stepped in and scared them off. Athena: What's this about, Apple Bloom? Apple Bloom: Uh, hehe, you know... It wasn't that big of a deal. I... guess the whole thing just slipped my mind. Athena: (I seriously doubt that. Why is he trying to hide this? Does it somehow have something to do with Scootaloo's arrest?) Turning: We all hung out for a little while after that. Miss Scootaloo and I got along really well, and that's why, later that day, she gave me that ribbon. Turning's Ribbon Added to the Court Record. Athena: But Twilight says she's never seen you and Scootaloo together before. How long have you two been friends? Turning: Well, just since yesterday, I guess. We only became friends after the whole incident with the bullies. Athena: Had you met her before then? Turning: No But I knew who she was - she's Miss Dash's honorary sister. Not only that, but she's also the president of the Rainbow Dash fan club, AND a founding member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Phoenix: That's... a lot of info for only having "heard" of her. Turning: Well, she has connections to one of the Element Bearers - some of my biggest heroes. How could I NOT know who she is? Athena: (Element Bearer...... Jeez, I could really do with a guidebook or something. I've never felt so lost.) Twilight: So, you learned of Scootaloo because of her connection to Rainbow Dash? Turning: Yup! Athena: (I guess that explains why Rainbow got so defensive of Scootaloo, if she's her honorary sister.) Twilight: Huh. I would've assumed you two knew each other through school; you look to me about her age. Turning: Nope. I don't even go to school. Twilight: What? You don't? What about your education? Turning: I don't need school to teach me a bunch of useless stuff. I can learn everything I need to by getting out into the REAL world, and experiencing it myself. All that school and books will do is slow me down. I want to learn new things by traveling the land and discovering them for myself. THAT'S how you really learn. Twilight: A... uh... buh? Athena: (I think Twilight just broke.) Phoenix: And your parents are okay with that, Turning? Turning: Well, my mom isn't. She's been trying to get me to go to school since... forever. My father was okay with it, though. He was happy that I wanted to follow in his hoofsteps, and become a member of the royal guard. He spent a lot of time in Cancelot, but whenever he came home, he and I would always practice sparring. He actually made this wooden sword for me. Athena: Hmm? It looks like it broke at some point. How did that happen? Turning: Oh, that? That happened when I was fighting the bullies yesterday. Athena: Wait, what!? You attacked them with your sword!? Turning: Of course! My father always told me: the true mark of the royal guard is more than their strength and bravery. It's their willingness to put everything on the line to defend what they believe in. What kind of future royal guardspony would I be if I DIDN'T fight those bullies? Athena: (I guess..but pulling a sword out seems a little overkill. I mean, they're just kids, right?) Turning's Sword Added to the Court Record. Athena: So, about your father... do you know what happened to him? Turning: Y-Yeah... He was... murdered last night. Athena: I'm so sorry for your loss, Turning. Turning: It's... It's fine. This is just... It's another test of strength for me to go through. Athena: Huh? Turning: Something else my father always told me: that you need to remain strong, even in times of hardship. Phoenix: ! Turning: That's why I'm not going to cry; I won't be sad. I have to show him that, even though he's gone, I'm still strong. I'm going to soldier on, just like he would want me to... Athena: (This kid... his heart is crying out in sadness, but he's trying so desperately to act like everything is fine. It's almost too much for me...... I know he wants to stay strong in his father's memory, but this is doing him more harm than good.) Phoenix: If you think you can handle it, Turning, would you mind answering some questions for us, regarding what happened last night? Turning: Oh, umm, s-sure... Phoenix: Thank you. Now, first off, we would like to know what YOU were doing. According to your mother, you weren't home when your father returned from Canterlot last night. So, where WERE you? Turning: I... um... I was... ???: TURNING PAGE!!! Athena: ! (It's her - the mare from the photograph. Royal Order's wife...) ???: There you are! I told you not to run off again! What are you doing in this forest!? Turning: I was trying to find a way to save Miss Scootaloo. She didn't kill Father, and I'm going to prove it! ???: No, you won't. I told you, stay out of the investigation; leave the job to the professionals. If Scootaloo really is innocent, they'll prove it. Turning: Grr... Phoenix: We're sorry for causing you any trouble, Ma'am. We're just asking your son a few questions. ???: Well, I'd rather you didn't, if I'm being honest. Phoenix: W-would you be kind enough to give us your name? Fair Devotion: Fair Devotion. And you are? Phoenix: P-Phoenix Wright. A-attorney at law. Fair Devotion: ... Nice to meet you. Athena: (If this is how Mr. Wright engages in small talk back home, then Trucy's gonna be waiting on that "new mommy" for a while.) Fair Devotion: As much as I'd love to stick around and chat, we really must be going now. Athena: Hold on! We have some questions for you! Fair Devotion: For me? Athena: Yeah, you're Royal Order's wife, right? Fair Devotion: Yes... Or, at least, I was... Athena: (Oh, she sounds so devastated... Just like Turning... I can't let that stop me, though. I have to ask her about her husband to find the truth...) I'm sorry for your loss, but would you mind answering some questions for us regarding the murder? Fair Devotion: I already talked to the police at length regarding this. I do not wish to talk about it further. If you want to know what I had to say, just ask them. Athena: We already did, but... Fair Devotion: Then that's all you'll be getting from me. Let's go, Turning. It's not wise to be in this forest in the first place. Turning: But... But...! Fair Devotion: The police will find a way to save Scootaloo, I promise. Just come back home with me, and DON'T run off again. Do you understand? Turning: ... Athena: (It's pointless to try to get any more information out of either of them right now.) It's okay, Turning. Like your mom said, we'll find a way to prove Scootaloo's innocence, and bring the real killer to justice. Turning: Y-You... will? Athena: I will. I promise. Turning: Okay. You better. Because... If you don't, I'll find a way to do it myself. No matter what... Athena: It's a deal. Apple Bloom: What are we gonna do now? Twilight: I think it's about time we also got out of this forest. We need to go visit Scootaloo in the detention center soon. Athena: Right. Phoenix: Let's get moving, then.

Scene 9
February 13, 3:00 PM Everfree Forest - Crossroads Phoenix: Hmm... Twilight: What's up, Phoenix? Phoenix: Twilight, how long did you say it takes to walk from here to the statue clearing? Twilight: About three minutes. Why? Phoenix: I think... we might want to keep these times in mind. They could be useful later. Athena, do you still have the diagrams Private Eye gave us? Athena: Yeah, I got them right here. Phoenix: Can I see the diagram of the whole forest? Athena: Sure, Boss. Here you go. Apple Bloom: What're ya doin', Mr. Lawyer? Phoenix: I'm writing down the time it takes to get to various locations throughout the forest. See? As Athena pointed out earlier, it takes about five minutes to get from the entrance of the forest to here, where the path splits. Then, it takes three minutes to get to the statue clearing and thirty minutes to reach the castle ruins. I have a feeling I know what this other clearing on the map is, so I've marked it down that it takes... ten minutes to reach it from here. As for the path from Zecora's hut to the ruins, that took fifteen minutes, according to Twilight. Apple Bloom: Ugh... Mah head hurts... Phoenix: Those are all the times we've figured out so far. If we find out any more, it'd be a good idea to mark them down on the diagram. Athena: Wow, thanks, Boss! I'll definitely keep that in mind. Everfree Forest Diagram updated in Court Record. Athena: Hmm... Twilight: What is it, Athena? Athena: I'm just wondering what else is hiding in these woods. They're so... mysterious. Twilight: You're telling me. This place is home to all kinds of unnatural things. Bizarre apple trees, clouds that move on their own, oh, and I can't possibly forget about the mirror pool. Athena: The... mirror pool? Apple Bloom: Oh! Isn't that the thing the Pinkie Pie used to clone herself over and over again? Athena: What!? Twilight: Indeed it is, Apple Bloom. The mirror pool is a strange pond that houses a very peculiar kind of magic. If you look into the pool, and recite an incantation, the pool will create a near-perfect clone of the one reflected on its surface. Athena: That's insane! And you're saying Pinkie Pie used it to clone herself... multiple times!? Apple Bloom: Yup! Those clones were causing havoc all over town. Applejack had to use her herding skills to gather them all in one place so we could get rid of them. Athena: Wow, that sounds like quite the ordeal... Twilight: Oh, it was, trust me. Cleaning up that mess was no fun either. After the whole incident was over, I made sure to cover up the entrance to the cave leading to the pool with a large, heavy rock. That way, nopony can accidentally walk in. Phoenix: Couldn't another unicorn just lift the rock, though? Not exactly what I'd call secure. Twilight: I... guess? I didn't really have a way to seal the cave completely, though. Phoenix: Hmm, well, anyway, we have no time to continue standing around here talking about this stuff. We need to go visit Scootaloo, and hear what she has to say. Athena: (Yeah, as much as I enjoy finally getting some answers, Scootaloo is our top priority...) You're right, Boss. Let's keep moving. We need to get to the detention center before visiting hours are over, after all. Twilight: Right then. Follow me. I'll show you how to get there.

Scene 10
February 13, 3:26 PM Everfree Forest - Entrance Apple Bloom: Uh, Twilight... Twilight: Yes, Apple Bloom? Apple Bloom: Do you... think we could stop at Carousel Boutique first? Twilight: Why? Apple Bloom: I want Sweetie Belle to come with us to see Scootaloo. We have to support her, together. Twilight: Is that okay, Athena? Athena: Of course. With both her friends there, Scootaloo is sure to be more open with us when we go see her, and it'll reassure her that her friends are on her side. Not that she needs to be reminded of that, I'm sure. Twilight: All right, then. We'll stop at Carousel Boutique, check back at the castle to see if we received a reply from the High Council, and then we'll go straight to the detention center. Athena: Sounds like a plan. Phoenix: Speaking of your castle, I can see it from all the way over here. Athena: Wow, you're right. I'm so envious of you, Twilight, getting to live in a castle like that. Twilight: You're... envious? Why? Athena: What do you mean "why?" You get to live in a giant castle! What more could you want? Twilight: I'd like my OLD home back, for one! Athena: Your... old home? Twilight: Do you mind if we take a little detour? Athena: S-Sure... (What's this about, I wonder?)

Scene 11
February 13, 3:50 PM Ponyville - Golden Oak Ruins Athena: Whoa. What is this place? Twilight: This... this is where I used to live... before I moved into my castle... Athena: This is... your old home? Phoenix: It's completely destroyed.. What happened to it? Twilight: It was about two or three months ago - Equestria was under attack from a centaur named Tirek. He had sucked out the magic of nearly every single pony in Equestria, making him extremely powerful. I eventually had to fight him, and in the process, he... he destroyed this library... my home... Athena: Oh... I... I didn't realize... I'm sorry, Twilight... Phoenix: You had to fight this "Tirek" alone? What about your friends, or the princesses? Twilight: My friends had been captured, and drained of their magic. As for the princesses, they knew that Tirek would be after their magic, so they decided to transfer all of their powers to me in an effort to "hide" it. They believed that Tirek wouldn't be able to find the magic since I was Equestria's newest princess, and it was possible he didn't even know I existed. But he eventually discovered me, and we ended up having to battle each other. Phoenix: All the princesses' magic versus all of Equestria's magic; that must have been quite the battle. So, where's Tirek now? Twilight: He's locked up in Tartarus, where he originally escaped from. Phoenix: Tartarus? Twilight: Yeah, it's like a high-security prison of sorts for all kinds of dangerous creatures. It's guarded from the inside by Cerberus, a large, three-headed dog. Athena: Still, you managed to beat him, right? And you got a castle as a result? Twilight: S-Sort of... I guess. I... I just wish that, instead of a castle, I was given this place back... Phoenix: You don't like your castle? Twilight: It's a nice place and all, but it just... It doesn't feel like it's mine... Athena: What do you mean? Twilight: I mean, I didn't really ever ask for it... I didn't really ask for... any of this... Being a princess was never something that I ever had any desire to pursue... I was just.. given the title... Phoenix: But... surely it must have been for a reason, right? I doubt Princess Celestia would've given you the position otherwise... Twilight: I guess there was a reason, but in the end, it doesn't change the fact that the life I now have wasn't one I ever wanted. I was just... forced to accept it, and act accordingly. And that's exactly how I feel about this tree here... This was my old home, and now, it's been taken from me, and replaced with something I never asked for, nor wanted. There were so many precious memories I had in this place. Of my friends, of you, Phoenix... Phoenix: ... Twilight: I just... I just wish, sometimes, that I could have it back, even if just for a day... To remember what it was like... Athena: (A life you never wanted, but were forced to follow... Huh...) Phoenix: Athena? What's wrong? Athena: N-Nothing, Boss. (Am I... any different?) Athena: (Yes. I was accused of killing my own mother. But Mr. Wright, he believed in me. He stuck true to his beliefs, and not only was I found "Not Guilty," but he found the real killer. And I was able to save a dear friend of mine, when he was going to be given the death sentence for the same crime.) Athena: (The whole reason I became an attorney... The reason I even decided to study law at all... It was all to save Simon from that faulty verdict that I couldn't save him from all those years ago... If only I'd been able to convince everyone...if only I had been stronger...my life would be be completely different. I wouldn't have met Mr. Wright, Apollo, or Trucy. I certainly wouldn't have gone into law. "Forced...". Forced by who? ...Fate? Like with Twilight, was all this just meant to be? But now that he's been saved, what else is there? I still want to be a lawyer... But what if I'm just not good enough? Not like I did much to free him, anyway...that was all thanks to everyone else.) Phoenix: Athena! Athena: Wha-!? Huh? Oh, uh, sorry... Boss... Apple Bloom: Are you all right, Athena? You look a little sick. Athena: Y-yeah. I just... kinda zoned out... Phoenix: I'll say... Twilight: Sorry, it's my fault... I shouldn't have brought you all here... This is just wasting time... Phoenix: No, it's okay, Twilight. I understand. Change can be hard. Especially when you're not expecting it. Twilight: Thanks. I can reminisce some other time, though... For now, we should be focusing on the case at hoof. Phoenix: If that's what you want, what do you say, Athena? Athena: ...I...Let's get going. We don't want to miss visiting hours at the detention center, and we still have quite a bit to do before we get there. Phoenix: ...

To Be Continued...