My Little Ace Attorney: Elements of Justice/Turnabout Discharge - Part 1/Transcript

Part 1

Turnabout Discharge
~Hindsight and Foresight~

Scene 1
XXXX XX - XX:XX Manehattan District Court - Courtroom No. 2 Celestia: Are you all right, my little pony? Overall: I... Y-yes, of course, Princess Celestia. Celestia: Are you? You're shaking quite a lot. Overall: Well, I mean... I guess I am a little nervous. You know, since I AM the one on trial, and... since... you're the one presiding. No offense, Your Highness. Celestia: None taken, Mr. Concept. And I understand your nervousness. This kind of attention isn't something you're used to, I would imagine. Overall: Now I understand how some of the actors I've worked with have felt before a particularly nerve-wracking performance. Celestia: Or right before a performance of "Machoof," as I understand it. Overall: That's only if you talk about it before the show begins, actually. It's a bit of a superstition in the world of theatre. Uh... I apologize if this seems rude of me, Your Highness, but... why are you talking to me? Isn't the judge supposed to be impartial? Or... aloof? Celestia: I suppose that is partially true. But technically speaking, I haven't called the courtroom to order. As such, I am not officially the judge at this moment. Likewise, you are not officially the defendant. So, you and I can enjoy a brief, pleasant conversation, if but for a little while. And I do enjoy talking with somepony from the theatre, even though it's been a while since I've properly watched a production myself. Or performed in one. Overall: Thank you, Princess Celestia. I appreciate that. Celestia: And what about you, Ms. Sonata? Sonata: Er, uh... Yes, Pr—I mean, Your Honor? Unless you'd prefer Princess, I mean! Celestia: "Your Honor" will suffice once we begin. Now, I couldn't help but notice you staring quite intently at the judge's bench. It was almost like you were trying to burn a hole into it. Has something upset you? Sonata: N-No no no! I'm just, er... I was... remembering what somepony once told me. Some advice. Celestia: A friend, I presume? Sonata: I... wouldn't say he was, no. I didn't know him for long. Celestia: This is your first official trial, isn't it? Sonata: It is. Celestia: It's certainly good for you to keep any and all advice in mind. But if you do not mind me speaking candidly— I believe you are already quite capable. Sonata: Huh?! Celestia: Very few, if any, trainee attorneys would be in court after only six months of education. And no one has been able to accomplish that, after serving a six-month prison sentence. Speaking frankly, Ms. Sonata, I believe that's something to be proud of. Sonata: It wasn't just me, though. So many others helped me. The new Lawkeeper, she— Celestia: Does that really diminish your own efforts? Were they the ones who made that decision for you? Sonata: (She's right. I can't focus on who or what got me here. I just have to focus on what I'm doing now. I'll get you out of this mess, Mr. Concept. One way or another.) Thank you, Your Honor. Celestia: Of course. Now, then... Court is now in session for the trial of Overall Concept. Defense, are you ready to begin? Sonata: I am, Your Honor. Celestia: And the prosecution? Trixie: HAH! The Grrreat and Powerful TRRRRIXIE is ALWAYS ready, Your Honor! Celestia: I had no idea the circus was back in town. Was that really necessary? Trixie: But of course! What is a performer if she does not perform? What is a star if she does not act as though she is always on stage? Though Trixie may have traded the tricks and thrills of her magic show for the trials and tribulations of the courtroom, she remains Trixie— the greatest entertainer in all of equestria! Sonata: (Trixie. Somehow I'm not surprised. I guess it's true what they say— You can take the showmare out of the show, but you can't take the show out of the showmare.) Trixie: But, Trixie understands you are right. Now is not the time for theatrics. There is a job to do. And regardless of the circumstances, Trixie intends to do her duty to the fullest of her abilities. Celestia: Ah! Well, the court is quite glad to hear it. Sonata: (Huh. I thought it would take something like a raging Ursa Minor to put Trixie's eccentricities to bed. But what that means for her skill as a prosecutor...) Celestia: Now that both the defense and prosecution are ready, I believe we can begin. Prosecutor Trixie, your opening statement, if you would please. Trixie: Yes, Your Honor. Sonata: (Here goes. Time to see what Trixie has up her sleeve.) Trixie: The victim was an earth pony mare named Estella Pantomimia, or "Stella," to those closest to her. Together, she and her twin sister, Espie, lived in Manehattan, with the victim making a living as a costume designer. Celestia: Estella Pantomimia... I've heard of her and her work. She made her debut with Bridleway Theatre's production of "Flash! Royale!", didn't she? Trixie: That's right, Your Honor! The papers were quick to label her as one of the most promising designers of her generation. Many gave her the moniker, "The Stellar Designer!" Trixie has seen a few of Estella's designs herself, and must admit, the nickname was hardly an exaggeration. Sonata: (Unless my ears were mistaken, that was a genuine compliment from Trixie. But that doesn't seem right. What game is she playing?) Trixie: It is unfortunate, then, that Estella's career was cut tragically short by a truly brutal act... Murder. Celestia: They say that stars who shine the brightest inevitably end up fading the quickest. We have truly lost one such example. Trixie: Indeed, Your Honor. And there is only one pony to blame for that loss— None other than the accused, Overall Concept! The prosecution intends to prove his guilt today, and bring justice, however late, to Estella Pantomimia! Sonata: (So that's how she intends to play this. Painting this as a crusade for justice. That's certainly a far cry from who she used to be. I guess she's not the ONLY pony who's changed. And it certainly looks like she BELIEVES in what she says. Which will make it all the more difficult to prove her wrong.) Celestia: Has the victim's sister been contacted? Trixie: Trixie... has tried, but it has proven... more challenging than she anticipated. Celestia: Why is that? Trixie: Your Honor, it seems Espie Pantomimia has... Disappeared. Sonata: ?! Celestia: ?! Disappeared? Trixie: Yes. Trixie isn't sure where she's gone, if anywhere. But what is certain that Espie's no longer in Manehattan. The police haven't found even a trace of her since she was last sighted. She's just... gone. Celestia: I see... That is troubling. I hope that we are able to locate her, then. Even if it's only to deliver the bad news. And how did Mr. Concept know of Ms. Estella Pantomimia? Trixie: Overall worked at the same place as the victim: Bridleway Theatre. He was her fellow costume designer, actually. Celestia: Are you saying they were rivals? Trixie: Not exactly. By MOST accounts, they were friends. Stella, Overall, and even Espie. Sonata: "Most" accounts? What do you mean? Trixie: Well, Trixie isn't in the habit of spreading rumors... But a few tabloids DID see the two of them together quite a lot, outside of work hours. Some even went so far as to say the two were an item. Now— Sonata: Don't tell me you think we should listen to the words of some gossip column! Is it really a crime for two ponies to date each other? Is THAT what you think makes my client guilty?! Trixie: If Ms. "Early Start" would let Trixie finish, maybe she'd hear what Trixie thinks! Sonata: Urk... Celestia: I'm also curious. What relevance do these tabloids hold? Trixie: While many are little more than rumor mills, they DID point out that, with how Estella was quickly growing as a star... It'd be no time at all before she overtook Bridleway's current head designer. Overall Concept. Celestia: I see... So even though they were friends, you believe that this would have changed? Trixie: Trixie has seen what passion can make a pony do first-hoof, Your Honor. And if passion spirals into jealousy... Celestia: It can lead to sorrow beyond measure... Sonata: (No! I can't let Trixie get away with this!) That is still conjecture at best! Not to mention completely contradicted by what you just said. Mr. Concept was friends with both Estella AND Espie. Why would he want to hurt the one but not the other? I believe the prosecution would do well not to spread baseless rumors. Trixie: Trixie... admits that this is a thin argument at best. If it pleases the defense, Trixie will refrain from digging into the defendant's personal life. Sonata: Then— Trixie: But Trixie still contends that Overall Concept murdered Estella Pantomimia! And Trixie has the evidence to prove it! Sonata: (Rgh... Well, at least I've gotten us away from that uncomfortable implication. But what should I do now...?) Trixie: A quick tip: it's probably better to wait until we start making actual arguments before you object to anything. Sonata: You mean that WASN'T you making an argument? Trixie: Hardly! I was just getting warmed up. But I appreciate the compliment. Sonata: (It really wasn't one.) Trixie: Now, it's been... what, a year since I last saw you? Does that sound about right? Sonata: Something like that. Surprised to see me? Trixie: Only a little. I'm more surprised to see you standing over THERE, of all places. I wouldn't have thought the defense's bench would suit you. Maybe you were better off as just a witness. Sonata: And maybe you'd be better off as just a traveling magician? Trixie: The Grrrreat and Powerful Trrrixie is hardly a one-act-fits-all mare! Sonata: Really? You could have fooled me. I mean, you still kept the silly hat and cape— Trixie: There is NOTHING silly about my hat and cape. Besides, when it comes to accessories, at least I'm CONSISTENT with what I wear. Sonata: Hmph... so you remember the clothing choices of every mare you talk to? Trixie: Only the ones who are int- Celestia: Defense, prosecution... You can't court here. This is a courtroom. Sonata: Right, Your Honor. Trixie: Of course, Your Honor... Trixie shall save this for another time. Celestia: Now, then. Prosecutor Trixie. You mentioned evidence? Trixie: Trixie did indeed, Your Honor. But Trixie also has indisputable testimony to provide, too! Together, these will fully demonstrate Overall Concept's guilt. Sonata: (She's confident, like she has all the answers. Whatever this evidence and testimony are, they're at least strong enough to make her THINK she's got this case wrapped up. But there has to be some area she's not given proper thought. Time to shine a little light on those dark corners... And prove to them, to him, and to myself, that I can do this!)

Scene 2
Phoenix: —and I'm glad they're at least treating you somewhat better than the last time you were here. You okay, Sonata? Sonata: ... Hm? Oh, yes. Thank you. Phoenix: You just went a little quiet, is all. Sonata: I'm fine, don't worry. Look... I get it. I'm the last pony you want to see, let alone talk to right now. But I can't help unless you open up to me. And I DO want to help you, Ms. Dash. (She's been like this ever since we arrived. I haven't managed to get a word out of her. I know WHY, but...) Ms. Dash. You and I BOTH know you don't deserve to be here... again. If you could just tell me your side of the story, I'm sure we can figure out what to do next. (Ugh... This is going absolutely nowhere.) Phoenix: Rainbow, do you want to know how the others are doing? Rainbow: The... others? You mean like Rarity, right? What's been going on? I know she was arrested, but beyond that... Well, I've just kinda been here, y'know? Phoenix: Apollo's decided to defend her. He's in Manehattan right now, along with Trucy, Spike, and Applejack. They're doing everything they can to save Rarity, I can promise you that. Rainbow: Right... That's good, I guess. Sonata: (Hmm. Given how Rainbow reacted after Sweetie's trial last week, no wonder she feels... conflicted. This whole situation is odd, though. Two Element Bearers being accused of a crime? It's unlucky at best, and suspicious at worst. I wonder...) Oh, right. Sweetie Belle is with everypony in Manehattan, as well. Rainbow: Wait, what?! They're just letting her walk around like nothing happened?! Phoenix: Rainbow! Come on, she's just a kid! That's uncalled for! Rainbow: Uncalled for? After what she did— Sonata: Ms. Dash, how would Ms. Rarity feel if she could hear what you're saying about her sister? Rainbow: Ugh... She wouldn't take it well, that's for sure. And it probably doesn't help that she's stuck in the detention center. Sonata: Like Scootaloo. And yourself, last time— Rainbow: No. You don't get to make that comparison. Not you. NEVER you. Sonata: ... Alright, I won't. Even so, surely you must realize that it isn't fair treating sweetie Belle this way, right? Rainbow: Fair? FAIR?! Ha! That's a riot, coming from you! Sonata: I'm just saying— Rainbow: Yeah, Sonata, I'm SURE you know EXACTLY what makes ANYTHING fair. It's not like you've never lied or cheated your way to the top before. Oh, wait, that's right—you DID! And we all know what happened next, don't we? Don't talk to ME about what's fair, Sonata. Sonata: (She's... right. I can't tell her what is and isn't fair. Not after what I did. Even so, I can't let her bottleneck me. It's her life on the line, no matter what she thinks.) I understand you don't want to talk to me, so it would at least be helpful if you knew somepony who would. Is there anypony that comes to mind? Rainbow: Why, so you can bother THEM with your dumb questions? Sonata: Would you rather I keep bothering you, instead? Rainbow: No! But you're here anyway! Sonata: Exactly. So, if you want me out of your mane, it would be best if you could give me a name. Just one. That's all. Rainbow: No way! I ain't gonna talk to you, and I'm sure as heck not gonna let you talk to— Ack! Sonata: Ah? So there IS somepony that can give us some information? Who? Rainbow: ... F-Forget it! I'm done talking! Go away! Sonata: Ms. Dash, please. This pony—they COULD help, if you would just let me know who they are! Silent again... I'd applaud her for the consistency, if it wasn't so frustrating. Phoenix: Then, it appears we're at a stalemate. Sonata: Perhaps so. However, no matter how strong somepony's defense may be, there is always an opening. Rainbow: ?! Phoenix: Hm? Sonata: Once you're aware of the pieces in play, it's simply a matter of utilizing them to find a way to corner your opponent. Phoenix: Ahh. Chess, huh? Do you play? Sonata: I did, often. Do you? Phoenix: Nah. I'm more of a poker guy, admittedly. But what's that got to do with Rainbow? Sonata: Just watch. (Rainbow thinks she can keep quiet? Fine. Then I'll just force her to open up... Using words, and words alone.)

Logic Chess: Rainbow Dash
Sonata: (Now, then. I'll need to break through every line of defense Ms. Dash puts up against me. This pony she's protecting. It's vital I identify who they are. Using what I know about Rainbow Dash, what is the most optimal strategy to employ, in order to do so?) Rainbow: Quit staring! You can bug me all you want, I'm not saying squat! 2 CHESS PIECES Sonata: (Given that she doesn't want to reveal the identity of this mystery pony, I'd say it's likely to be one of her friends. She won't make this easy, though. I doubt she'll even engage me directly. Unless... I provoke her in some way. The RIGHT way, that is. When it comes to those she cares for, Rainbow is loyal. She'd be willing to come to a friend's aid, especially if it's against somepony she doesn't trust to begin with. That means I'll need to watch my tongue. If I say something TOO out of line or something clearly wrong, it'll cost me. As will standing around thinking about what to say. I need to strike while the iron is hot, and correctly, at that. Time is of the essence. Alright, that should do it. Let's begin!) Begin Logic Chess Sonata: So this pony you mentioned—what was their role in the incident? Rainbow: ... Sonata: (Well, here goes nothing. What should I say?) Were they somehow responsible for your arrest? Sonata: Don't tell me they were somehow responsible for your arrest? Rainbow: What?! No, that's crazy! Sonata: Why do you say that? Rainbow: 'Cause it's obvious! Sonata: To you, perhaps. But not to others, like myself. Rainbow: Yeah? Well, nopony cares what YOU think. Sonata: And what about the police? Surely their opinion matters, if not mine? Rainbow: Well, yeah! Obviously! But they're not stupid! They probably already talked to her— "Her"? Sonata: A "her," is that right? Rainbow: Her, they, who cares? Sonata: The police, for one. Now, why would they need to talk to this mare? Rainbow: C-cause'... she's my friend. They wanted to talk to ponies I know, and stuff. Sonata: That seems rather selective. Why this friend specifically? None of your other friends have been contacted, to my knowledge. Rainbow: ... Sonata: (I have a feeling I know why. I may as well put her out of her misery on this one.) She's a witness, isn't she? Sonata: I'm sorry, Ms. Dash. I can see you're trying to protect her, I really can. But enough is enough. Rainbow: Er... what? Sonata: You said it yourself. The police have spoken to your friend. Naturally, they would have a good reason for this. Tell me. She's a witness, isn't she? 1 CHESS PIECE BROKEN Rainbow: Ugh... Okay, fine. Yeah. She was there. She... saw what happened. Sonata: And who was she? Rainbow: Pinkie Pie. Sonata: (That makes sense. From what I know, those two are quite close.) Why were you so insistent on keeping that from us, though? Rainbow: 'Cause I don't wanna talk about her behind her back! We're friends! Not like YOU'D understand. Wait and see. Sonata: ... Rainbow: You happy, Sonata? Good! Now take the hint and leave me and my friends alone! Sonata: I don't intend to, Ms. Dash. I just want to help, and that can only happen if you tell me what you know. Rainbow: Don't you get it, yet? I'm not talking to you about any of that stuff! Sonata: (So you say. But unfortunately, I can't let this go. Now that I've confirmed Pinkie's role in this, the next step is to determine what Rainbow is keeping from me. Mainly her involvement, and the reason behind her detainment. Once I'm aware of these things, we can actually start to make some headway. She'll likely try and keep quiet again, but letting her run her mouth when provoked seems to be working rather well. Time to draw out this information, for good!) How are you involved in this incident? Sonata: How are you specifically involved in this incident, Ms. Dash? Rainbow: ... Sonata: (There's little sense in asking this without something to back me up. Perhaps another question might help?) Did you know the victim, by any chance? Sonata: Did you know the victim, by any chance? Rainbow: N-no! Not at all! Heck, I'd never even talked to her before! Sonata: Oh? Not at all? Not even in passing? Rainbow: Like I'd ever! No way! Wait and see. Sonata: ... Rainbow: Do I have to SPELL it out to you? Geez! Look! I. Never. Talked. To. Her! Got it?! "Her"? Sonata: Her, you say? That is quite interesting to hear, Ms. Dash... ...seeing as I don't recall mentioning the victim was a mare. Rainbow: W-well, yeah! Duh! I, uhh... heard it from one of the guards that arrested me. Wrongly, by the way. Sonata: You certainly don't appear to hold the victim in high regard. If you've never spoken to her, why is that the case? Rainbow: W-when you hear stuff about somepony, you sorta make up your mind about them pretty quick, okay? Sonata: (Somehow I doubt all of this is as simple as she's claiming it is. Very peculiar choice of words, though. She's "never even TALKED to her"? As opposed to... Yes! This might be the clue I was looking for!) You've seen the victim! Sonata: Ms. Dash. I ask again. How are you involved in this incident? Rainbow: ... Sonata: There's no point in playing dumb. Rainbow: Dumb?! Sonata: You've already misspoken. Fatally so. You said, quite clearly, that you'd never even "talked" to the victim. Rather odd, isn't it? Saying that, instead of never having SEEN her? Rainbow: Agh! Fine! I've seen her around before, sure. But like I said, I barely know her. I'm too busy, y'know? Sonata: Busy doing what? Rainbow: What do you think?! Wonderbolt Reserves training, of course! An athlete's gotta be focused on making sure she's at the top of her game! Sonata: I'd have thought you'd train together. With the other reserves, I mean. Not by yourself. Rainbow: ... Sonata: I also assumed the Wonderbolts cared deeply about team spirit. I suppose that's just not the case, though. Rainbow: WE DO! Wait and see. Sonata: ... Rainbow: What would YOU know about team spirit, anyway, huh?! You've never done anything for anypony but YOURSELF! But the Wonderbolts? They're a team—there's a bond there! We look out for each other! It's not OUR fault if somepony doesn't think that matters, okay?! Wait and see. Sonata: ... Rainbow: W-well, all I'm saying is, if somepony doesn't get that, they're not Wonderbolt material! SHE definitely wasn't—and I'd never want to train with somepony like that! Sonata: Is that so? Well, that's interesting. Rainbow: What the heck are you talking about NOW?! Sonata: "She," meaning the victim in this incident, I take it? Rainbow: ?! Sonata: So you're both a part of the Wonderbolts Reserves, then. Which makes sense... Given that the victim was found AT the Wonderbolt Academy, after all! Which finally answers my question as to your involvement. You've been accused of hurting a fellow member of the Wonderbolt Reserves! Rainbow: Aaaagh! 1 CHESS PIECE BROKEN Rainbow: ... F-fine. Yeah, that's it. Just... lay off, will you? Sonata: And that, as they say, is checkmate! Logic Chess Complete

Scene 2 (cont.)
Phoenix: That was amazing, Sonata! I didn't think she'd talk. You certainly have a knack for this. Sonata: Well, when I was younger, I figured out how to read others to find what they were hiding. That way, I could use that information to my, er, advantage. It made for a... difficult foalhood, admittedly. Phoenix: Your... foalhood? Sonata: Yeah... Anyway, that's not important right now. Ms. Dash, are you ready to talk to us? Rainbow: Ugh, fine. I guess I don't really have a choice, do I? But I'll make this quick. I don't want to waste time explaining stuff you should already know. So no more pointless questions, got it? Sonata: (I wouldn't have had to ask any if you'd just cooperated!) Very well. Could you tell us the victim's name, then? Rainbow: Her name's... Stream Line. She's a Wonderbolt reservist, just like me. Phoenix: Oh yeah, you mentioned before you always wanted to join. Congrats! Rainbow: Heh, thanks, 'Nix! It wasn't easy, and it took a lot of hard work, but I've finally made it! Sonata: Did Stream Line become a reservist around the same time you did? Rainbow: No, she became one a little bit later. I never heard of her before and then she suddenly found her way onto the team. Not like she deserved it, though... Sonata: Why's that? Rainbow: Because she just doesn't, okay?! Phoenix: Definitely a sore subject. You probably shouldn't ask her why she feels that way—at least, not until she's calmed down. Sonata: Agreed. What exactly happened at the Academy? Rainbow: We were... doing training exercises. Sonata: Didn't you say you'd never train with somepony like her? Rainbow: Yeah. Phoenix: Then, what happened to make you change your mind that day? Rainbow: They... said I had to. For the good of the team. Sonata: "They" being... Rainbow: Our captain. So we were all there. Even me, with... her. Sonata: And what sort of training exercises were you all doing? Rainbow: Push-ups, sit-ups, plenty of juice, the usual wonderbolts stuff. Phoenix: The usual stuff? What about, I don't know, wing push-ups or something? Rainbow: No offense, 'Nix, but what would you know? You're not a Wonderbolt. You don't even have a pair of wings! Sonata: Though your name suggests you should. Rainbow: Yeah, it does! Ugh, you know it's a bad thing if we BOTH agree on that. Your name totally doesn't fit! Phoenix: Well, I'm always flying by the seat of my pants in court, aren't I? Rainbow: ... Sonata: ... Phoenix: I was EXPECTING a little pushback from that, you two! Rainbow: Hey, when you're right, you're right. Sonata: It's just, you seemed rather... at ease with the notion, Mr. Wright. Which is a little concerning. Phoenix: Let's just get back to the case at hand, alright? Rainbow: Right, so... just as we were moving into a typical flight routine, Stream Line collapsed. Sonata: She collapsed? Rainbow: Yeah, and that's when I got arrested! Phoenix: But why would they arrest YOU, in the first place? Rainbow: The, urgh... The police think I had something to do with it. Sonata: And what exactly do they think you did? Rainbow: --ey th--- I ---son-- --r Sonata: Could you repeat that, Ms. Dash? Rainbow: They think I POISONED her, okay?! They think THAT'S why she collapsed! which is a load of horse— Sonata: Poisoned her? Not murdered? Rainbow: Uh, yeah? Sheesh, Sonata, keep up, would ya? Sonata: Does that mean Stream Line's still alive? Rainbow: I guess? How should I know?! Nopony's told me anything about what's happening out there! Phoenix: Did the police at least tell you HOW they think you poisoned her? Or why they suspect you? Rainbow: Agh, nope. The guards weren't exactly the talkative type. Sonata: (Not like you were, either.) Let me reframe the question. Why YOU specifically? Why don't the police suspect, say, one of the other Wonderbolts? Rainbow: Who knows? Probably... just a case of me being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Phoenix: ... Sonata: Ms. Dash, I must insist you— Rainbow: Well, 'Nix? What's the plan for getting me out of all this, Huh? Phoenix: Well... Sonata's actually the one leading your case, not me. Rainbow: What?! Don't tell me you think I actually DID it! Phoenix: No, of course not! It's just— Sonata: I volunteered. Rainbow: Zip it, Sonata! I already talked to you ENOUGH today! Sonata: ... Rainbow: Come on, 'Nix! You gotta help me out! I know this looks bad, but we've been in bad scenarios before, remember? And you've never let anypony stop you from winning—not Gilda, not Trixie, not some stuck-up blackmailer— Sonata: (Hmm, charming.) Rainbow: Point is, 'Nix, I know if you were my lawyer, we'd be able to come out on top! Phoenix: Rainbow... I know you want me for this, but... Rainbow: But WHAT?! Sonata: ... (Well... I suppose this is somewhat better than getting the silent treatment. But she doesn't trust me at all. And she certainly won't, even if I try and force her to. Maybe I should take a page from Mr. Wright's playbook...) Ms. Dash. I know you don't trust me, but believe me: I meant what I said earlier. You don't deserve to be in jail. Rainbow: Hmph. Sonata: And, I KNOW you'd never poison somepony. Even if you don't believe in me, at least believe THAT much. Phoenix: Sonata's already done so much to help us out, too, you know. She discovered evidence that saved Scootaloo in the other trial, remember? Rainbow: Yeah... I remember. Phoenix: Sonata says she's a changed mare. And I believe her, and in her, too. If it helps to know, Sonata will have my help in the trial. So she won't be going in alone. I'll be her co-counsel, so I'll be right beside her the whole time. Sonata: Ms. Dash, I promise, I will do ANYTHING to save you. Rainbow: ...You'd BETTER. Sonata: So you're okay with this, then? Rainbow: ... As long as 'Nix is there, everything should be good. No "surprises," know what I mean? Sonata: Of course. Guard: Time's up, you three. I'll be taking the suspect in for further questioning. Oh, one more thing. I've been instructed to inform you that the trial will begin later this afternoon. Phoenix: W-What?! That's hardly any time at all! Why?! Guard: I'm sorry, sir. But the prosecution insisted. The trial, she said, is of national importance, so it would be best to have it sooner rather than later. Sonata: (And given who the victim and defendant are... I suppose that would make sense. Still...) Sonata: Thinking it over now, maybe I should have realized earlier that this was more than a simple poisoning. That last look Rainbow gave me, as inscrutable as it was, seemed to indicate so. But I had no time to confront it. Perhaps I should have pushed Rainbow harder, or gotten that guard to give us more time to talk, or... Of course, the thing about hindsight is, you never find it until after the fact. And foresight, never before. But that's how the past traps you, lulls you into a false sense of safety— —How it makes you think it's this innocent thing, inert, dead, final. You think it can't hurt you once it's become the past. And thinking this, you believe it somehow will help you understand the present, that it'll help uncover what lies beneath the shadow of time and memory. And you get so caught up... thinking about what you did or didn't do, or what you should have done, how you should have known better... ...That you fail to see the story for what it is, until it's too late.

Scene 3
February 21 - 10:30 AM Bridleway Theatre Trucy: Hard to believe we're back here again, eh, Polly? Apollo: After what we had to put up with? Yeah, it kind of is. If Prince You-Know-Who wasn't so busy admiring himself, he could have taken a look at the case instead. Maybe THEN the police wouldn't have forced us to not investigate until the prosecutor wrapped up everything on his end. Spike: I bet he's doing this on purpose. After what happened at the last trial, he's trying anything he can to win this time. Even mess with our investigation! Trucy: Come on, you two! Things have been pretty rough, yeah. But we're here now! Look! Apollo: It doesn't seem like a lot has changed, though. Trucy: Hey, yeah. Even that receptionist looks the same. Ooh, maybe it's her twin sister? Still... I never thought we'd come back here. And definitely not for the same reason as the first time. The way this place draws in bad omens... I don't like the coincidences one bit. Applejack: Granny Smith always used t' say that coincidences are just ways of seeing the world's levers and pulleys for what they are. I know Rarity's innocent. And I know there has got to be some rational reason for what's happenin'. But that don't mean I'm comfortable with the fact that it's happening in the first place. If it IS just a coincidence, or just a buncha mistakes on th' part of some pencil pusher, it's in poor taste. Spike: No, it's definitely a mistake, and that's what we're here for! We're gonna prove that Rarity's innocent and save the day, like we always do! And I'll bet that Apollo's already figured out how to do just that, all without needing a trial! Sweetie: Well, if that's true, then I want to help, in any way possible. Spike: Hopefully that doesn't mean sending anymore blackmail letters... Sweetie: Urk... Apollo: (Was it a mistake to bring both Sweetie Belle and Spike along? Honestly, given how everything ended after Sweetie's trial, I'm surprised the two haven't argued more on the train ride here. Still... I think we need to keep an eye on both of them. They're just kids. After all, they're liable to go off on just about anything. And I can't have that happen—not while I'm trying to save Rarity.) We'll do what we always do, Sweetie Belle—interview a few witnesses, investigate the crime scene, and gather clues. That'll let us have a compelling argument to prove Rarity COULDN'T have committed the crime. Trucy: Yeah! This is basically the bread-and-butter of the Wright Anything Agency, don't you worry! Sweetie: But what about figuring out where we need to go? Applejack: Don't worry about that, neither. Remember that story I told you a while back, about how I got my Cutie Mark? I got myself a history in Manehattan, y'see. Anywhere we need to go, I'll guide us there, guaranteed. Trucy: That definitely would be helpful, Applejack. Thank you! Sweetie: O-Okay. Applejack... ???: Pardon me, but may I be let through, please? Apollo: Oh! Sorry, yeah. A-Ah! Mr. Playwright! You're just the pony we wanted to see! Playwright: I am? Sweetie: He is? Playwright: Ah, it's you two! You were with that Mr. Wright fellow, yes? Apollo: Right! My name's Apollo Justice. I'm a defense attorney. Trucy: And I'm Trucy! Trucy Wright! Apollo: (With all these RIGHTS, we've definitely LEFT the original point of this conversation.) Playwright: I must say, it is quite the surprise to see you both again. Though your entourage still remains impressively large. Do ALL of you need me for something, then? Apollo: (We do have a habit of dragging around a LOT of people with us.) Applejack: We do. You probably heard about it, but our friend Rarity was arrested recently. The police think she had something to do with Overall Concept's death. Can you believe that? Playwright: I did hear about that. It is absolutely absurd! She's a national hero, for Celestia's sake! Trucy: I know, right? This whole thing makes no sense! Rarity doesn't have anything to gain from this! Whatever evidence they have MUST be fabricated! Playwright: Well, you'll hear no argument from most of the staff. Many of them can hardly believe it. Trucy: Wait, most?! You mean some ponies really think Rarity did it?! Playwright: N-not me, of course! But, some of the temporary staff... They've heard about the Ponyville trial from last week. And they're starting to think, well, ANYTHING'S possible. Even the most morbid of scenarios. Apollo: (Well, they might have lost faith, but I won't! I'll keep my bond with my client—no matter what happens!) Playwright: But... The one taking this the hardest is obviously Coco. Her friend being arrested for the same crime she'd been accused of? I've tried to comfort her, but there's only so much one pony can do, you know? Apollo: (Well, this is a change. I guess Ms. Pommel's trial really WAS a wake-up call for him.) That's what we're here for, Mr. Playwright. We want to help Rarity, and we were hoping you could help us do that. Playwright: Of course! How may I be of assistance? Apollo: Could you tell us about Rarity's connection to Bridleway Theatre, for starters? Playwright: To our theater? You mean, besides through Coco? I'm afraid there isn't one. Spike: Wait, what? Are you serious? Playwright: I AM serious. Once, she did participate in a fashion show that was held at Bridleway, but formally, she doesn't work here. And while her fashion line does intersect with the world of theatre, that's really the full extent. Apollo: So there's no DIRECT connection? Playwright: None that I can think of. Applejack: Is that a good thing, ya reckon? Apollo: I do reckon—er, I mean, yeah. It's a good thing. It means there is more reason to think that Rarity wouldn't have any reason to want to hurt Bridleway. Sweetie: ! Apollo: What about her connection to Overall Concept? Anything there? Playwright: That's trickier to answer. They certainly KNEW each other well enough to call in favors—the ring, as you'll no doubt recall. Apollo: So they were friends? Playwright: Honestly, I'm not sure if that's the correct label, but they were certainly on good terms. Not that I'm surprised, now that I think about it. Applejack: Why's that? Playwright: Well... I know that, previously, I would NOT have, er, been inclined to WORRY about my employees and their... feelings. But one thing I did hear a lot was how nicely Overall got along with just about anypony. It's probably why he and Coco hit it off so well in the first place. And why she always spoke so glowingly of him. Poor thing... Trucy: What about the rest of the theatre staff? Playwright: Same goes for them, too. They loved him. Mr. Hockkins, Ms. Coltman, and Mr. Gaitiss. Oh, and there was Espie and Este-I mean, Stella. Apollo: Espie and... Stella? Who are they? Playwright: The Pantomimias. Twin earth pony sisters. Stella was a costume designer here, once. Spike: "Once"? Playwright: She... disappeared one day. She earned her sister. No explanation, no warning, just... poof. Applejack: That doesn't seem right. Ponies can't just disappear into thin air like that. Apollo: Didn't Athena's case last week involve teleportation? Trucy: She doesn't mean LITERALLY, Polly! Sorry, Applejack. His attitude has really taken a nosedive since coming to this world. Applejack: You don't gotta apologize, Trucy. I see his point. Apollo? Apollo: Hmm? Applejack: I know I ain't Twilight, so I can't exactly speak on magic and whatnot. But you haven't lived in this world all your life. We ponies—we like to stick together. That's just who we are. The idea that any one of us can just vanish off the face of Equestria? That doesn't make a lick of sense. Playwright: I agree, and yet, it really did happen. All of us were hurt by it. Overall, especially. He, Stella, and Espie were close friends. Apollo: (That... must have been devastating for Overall. An orphan already, to lose ponies close to him...) Spike: When exactly did they, uh... "disappear"? Playwright: Mmm... admittedly my memory is a little hazy. Spike: How? You're the director. Shouldn't you, like, know your actors' schedules and everything? Playwright: That's the receptionist's job, usually! Apollo: (The so-called "visual genius" failing to see how lazy this makes him look. You can't make this stuff up.) Playwright: Ah, wait, now I remember. It was about... six months ago, yes. Around that time frame. Apollo: Do you remember if there was anything off about them before then? Or if they mentioned that they were planning on going somewhere? Playwright: Honestly, no—but it has been a while. And, uh, as you know... a lot has happened since then. B-but! I can ask some of the staff, see if they remember anything, if you'd like. Apollo: I... guess it couldn't hurt. (Though, honestly, I don't see how this could have any bearing on Rarity's case. If Overall really was as close to those sisters as Playwright says... Maybe Mr. Wright was right after all, and Overall's depression finally caught up with him? But... that doesn't explain why Rarity's been arrested. Urgh...) Playwright: I'm terribly sorry I couldn't provide you much more, Mr. Justice. Apollo: It's... all right. But there IS another way you could help us. Playwright: Really? Then name it! Apollo: Would you allow us to investigate the theater again? Maybe look through Overall's workroom? Playwright: Well, yes, of course. But... both you and the police have already combed it over extensively. I can't imagine you'd find anything new. Applejack: What about where Overall Concept lived? I reckon there must be somethin' there? Playwright: Same story, I'm afraid. The police investigated his and Coco's apartment from top to bottom before her trial. Sorry, folks. Applejack: Well, ain't that a kick in the head. Or two. Trucy: Is there really NOTHING new about Overall? Seriously? Sweetie: Well, what about... No, th-that's dumb... Apollo: Hey, wait, don't shoot yourself down before you even said anything. Do you have an idea? Sweetie: Kind of? It's just... Well... if we can't learn anything NEW about Overall... What if we learned something OLD? Like, uh... Spike: Like where he used to work, maybe? Playwright: I can most certainly tell you that! Before he came to Bridleway, Mr. Concept worked at a place called "Keresmatic's Mare Attic." It's a... er... site for certain... activities. N-Not that Overall ever engaged in them, of course! I'd never hire somepony with that sort of background. Spike: Uh... okay? Apollo: This might be a bit of a longshot, but does that name ring any bells for you? Applejack: Sorry, Apollo. I might know Manehattan a bit, but I don't know every place. Rarity might have, but... I don't think this "Keresmatic's Mare Attic" even existed when I was a filly. Apollo: Ah, it's fine. Still, I thought I'd ask anyway. Do you think this place could help us, then? Playwright: It might... I mean, Overall mentioned a few times that he had a room there. Though I always thought he meant it was a second workroom. Apollo: It can't hurt to check it out, at the very least. Can you give us the address? Playwright: I can most certainly, but... Just, ah, try and be quick about it. Applejack: Why? Not that we're about to go at this at a snail's pace, but is there some other reason we oughtn't dilly-dally? Playwright: It's just—the lead detective is there right now. Part of his investigation, he said. I had to show him there myself, just now. He said he knew where it was, and then started running in the opposite direction. You might want to hurry if you've got any questions for him, is what I'm saying. Sweetie: Lead detective? So that means... Apollo: Yeah. This is probably the guy who found the evidence leading to Rarity's arrest. Spike: Jerk... I oughta give him a piece of my mind! Applejack: Hey, now. He was just doin' his job. Don't you be fixin' to yell at him when we head on over there. Playwright: I'd love to help you all out more, but sadly I must be off. In spite of this tragedy, the work of the theatre never stops. Apollo: We understand. Thank you, Mr. Playwright. Trucy: I wonder what that detective will say when we turn up... Spike: It'd better be an apology... Apollo: (Honestly, it's not even an apology I want, but an explanation. This case already feels as murky as the last... Except for one thing: I KNOW Rarity is innocent and that's what I need to focus on. I can't let myself get distracted by other stuff, like these Pantomimia sisters, or their connection to Overall. Rarity is the only one that matters. I'll find out what really happened that night, and save my client—just like I said I would! Get ready, Equestria! Here comes Justice!)

To Be Continued...