“Maya… it’s time to wake up.”

“Hmm? N-Nick?”

Maya flung her arm onto where Pearl was sleeping. The spot was empty. Her eyes opened wide.

“Nick! Where’s Pearly?”

She sat up quickly. What she saw next just put her in complete surprise. Nick was sitting on the end of her bed holding a tray. On the tray was an assortment of breakfast foods. There were pancakes, bacon, sausage, a waffle, a bowl of fruit, and a glass of orange juice.

“I thought a certain lady would like a certain breakfast in bed.”

“Nick… that is so sweet of you! Thank you!”

Maya wanted to fling up and hug him, but if she did, she would knock over all of the food he so lovingly prepared. Instead, she kneeled on her bed, leaned over, and kissed his cheek.

“You’re welcome.”

Then, Nick placed the tray down, and lightly pushed Maya so that she was lying down. He placed the covers over her and picked up the tray again.

“But, where’s Pearly?”

Just then, little Pearl walked in, carrying in an egg and cheese omelet.

“Mystic Maya is awake!”

“Pearly! How long have you been up?”

“I’ve been up since eight! I got up to help Mr. Nick.”

Maya looked at the clock. It was 9:15.

“Well, eat up!” Nick said, placing the bed tray onto Maya’s lap. Pearl jumped and sat on the side of the bed.

“Would you like this delicious omelet, Mystic Maya?”

“Pearly, you must be hungry. You can have that omelet.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you, Mystic Maya!”

“I’ll get you a fork, Pearls.”

“Thank you, Mr. Nick.”

He walked out. Maya was already digging into her breakfast. Everything was so delicious!

“Isn’t Mr. Nick the best?!”

“Yes he is, Pearly.”

“Okay, here you go, Pearls.”

“Thank you very much, Mr. Nick.”

“You’re welcome. Well, Pearls, I arranged a special day for you today.”

“What is it?”

“Mr. Edgeworth and Detective Gumshoe are going to take you to the zoo!”

“Yay! This will be fun! But, what about you and Mystic Maya?”

“Don’t worry about us. We are doing something special.”

Maya looked a little confused. She didn’t know what they were doing.

“Mr. Edgeworth and Detective Gumshoe should be here at ten.”

“Okay! I’m going to finish my omelet in the kitchen, and then I will finish getting ready!”

“Sounds good, Pearls!”

With that, Pearl exited the room.

“So, what are we doing, Nick?”

“You’ll see. You’re going to love it.”

He held her hand and gave it a squeeze.

“Nick… You’re the best.”

“I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

* * *

“Don’t worry, Wright,” Edgeworth consoled, “We’ll take good care of her.”

“That’s right, pal! We’re going to feed the animals, eat cotton candy, and get souvenirs!”

“Sounds like you love the zoo, Detective,” Nick stated.

“Well, pal, I always found it to be a blast, y’know? Looking at animals kinda relieves my stress.”

“That’s… interesting…”

“Ms. von Karma is going to meet us there. Hope you have a good time with your special date, pal.”

Gumshoe gave a wink.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Have fun!”

“Good luck, Wright.”

They left on that note. Nick was rubbing his hand together.

Maya is going to be pleased.

* * *

Maya was sporting a purple dress which was the length of her channeling costume. She was looking in the mirror, turning side to side to see how she looked. A sigh came out. Then, it hit her. She shook her head. Mia had given her a perfume two months earlier. That Mia… she knew all along. Maya took the perfume out of the medicine cabinet and applied it. Mia had great taste. So, she emerged.

“Where are we going, Nick?”

“Some place special. Come on.”

He grabbed her hand and they walked down the sidewalk. It was about fifteen minutes of walking until they arrived to where they were going. They stood on a dock. Nick walked up to the ticket window.

“Excuse me. May I have two tickets for the 10:30 ferry?”

The man at the ticket booth nodded. He printed out the tickets and told Nick the price. Nick paid him and took the tickets.

“Thank you very much. Here you go, Maya.”

“Thanks, Nick.”

A couple minutes later, the ferry pulled up to the dock. They were among two other couples going on the ship.

“Ahoy! We are boarding now!”

“Ladies first,” Nick declared to Maya.

“Why thank you, Nick.”

The ferry took off at twenty-one knots. Maya let the breeze run through her hair. The two of the held hands and strolled up to the bow. They let go of each other’s hands. Nick clasped his hands together and put his forearms on the railing.

“So, where does this ferry go?” Maya asked her companion.

“It just goes around this lake. There’s dancing through those doors, they have a place to eat, or we can just walk the ferry.”

“We can play it by ear.”

“Okay. Would you like to walk around first?”

“Sure. I don’t think dancing would work well with the wonderful breakfast I had.”

Nick gave a laugh, clutched Maya’s hand, and then proceeded to stroll around the deck.

“So, we are taking Pearls back in two days, right?”

“Right. I told them she’d be back by two. I… um… also have a little business to take care of there. Master stuff.”

“Okay, that sounds fine.”

They talked for a long time. At some point, they went dancing and ate an early dinner on the ship. They spent the whole day on the ferry. In the evening, there was a splendid and romantic surprise for Maya. Fireworks were shot in the air. They formed a heart in the sky. Then, there were three characters inside the heart: N + M. Maya put her hand over her heart.

“Nick, this is so romantic!”

He was beaming. Maya wrapped her arms around Nick’s neck. He wrapped his arms around Maya’s waist. They shared a long passionate kiss. Maya was in a complete state of bliss.

This evening just gets better and better.

Nick and Maya were back at the office. It was 7pm.

“Nick, thank you so much for today. I really had a wonderful time.”

The two of them were sitting on the couch. Maya was leaning her head on Nick’s shoulder. Nick had his arm wrapped around Maya’s waist.

“It’s my pleasure, Maya. You deserved it. So, tell me. What is this business you have to take care of in two days?”

“The village is having a meeting and the Master must be present. We are discussing possible changes in the village.”

“Where is this meeting taking place?”

“In the Meditation Hall. Nick, I have a huge favor to ask of you.”

“Ask away. For you, I’d do two favors.”

She gave a small smile.

“Could I bother you to watch Pearly while I’m in the meeting? She would love to play with her ball or something.”

“Sure.”

“Thank you so much, Nick! But, I warn you. She might ask you about us.”

“Okay. I’ll cross that bridge when it approaches.”

“Will it be burning just like the bridge you crossed for me?”

“Ha ha ha. We’ll see. I’m not sure exactly how much gasoline Pearls will add to the bridge.”

Maya giggled. She rubbed Nick’s arm with her free hand. They kissed again. There was no one else in the world like Nick. Maya was so happy with him. He ran one hand through her soft hair, and the other was on her back. She wrapped herself around him and kissed him back eagerly. At that moment, a door crashed open.

“We’re back from the zoo, pal!”

Nick and Maya broke apart. Pearl was standing next to Edgeworth, beaming.

“Whoa! Getting a little action, are we? Heh heh heh. Want me to leave until you two are done with your… *ahem*… business?”

“No, that’s… um… that’s quite alright, Detective,” Nick assured, now standing up.

“H-how was the zoo?” Maya questioned.

“Oh, it was great, pal!”

“Yes, yes,” Edgeworth said in a suggestive tone, “The good detective here tripped and his cotton candy fell onto a lion’s back.”

“Hey, the zoo keepers understood. They even gave me a new one for free!”

“Mystic Maya! Look at what Mr. Edgeworth bought me!”

In Pearl’s hands was a glass snow globe. Inside it was a miniature lion standing on an outcropping rock.

“Wow! Thank you, Mr. Edgeworth!”

“It’s not a problem. Well, Detective, I think we should head out. I have much business to attend to.”

“Okay, sir! Good night, Mr. Wright, Maya. Heh heh heh… or should I say ‘Mrs. Wright’.”

Edgeworth just rolled his eyes and pulled Gumshoe out the door by the arm. The door slammed closed. Pearl walked over to Maya and bumped her towards Nick.

“Is there something you wanted, Pearly?”

“Teehee. You two are the cutest couple I have ever seen.”

Nick blushed. He cleared his throat.

“Well, Pearls, I believe it’s time to settle in.”

“Yes, Mr. Nick. I’m very tired.”

She yawned. It looked like she had a very long day, as expected. Walking around a zoo the entire day could be very tiring. Nick knew he was tired. Maya probably was as well. It made him very pleased to know Maya enjoyed their first date. Then, he thought of something.

“Maya… I, erm… have something to ask.”

Pearl had already walked out of the room to change into her pajamas.

“Yes, Nick?”

“Well, after Pearls goes back to Kurain… I was… um… well, wondering if y-y-you’d like to s-sleep with me… No, no! Not sleep like that!”

The last comment was directed towards the shocked expression Maya gave after hearing the sleeping with him part. She then gave a relaxed expression.

“Oh! I understand. Nick, I would like that very much.”

She gave a grin. He returned one.

“Excellent. I’m going to get ready for bed. I’ll stop by your room a little later to say good night.”

“Okay, Nick.”

Then, they went their separate ways.

* * *

Maya changed into her silky purple pajamas while Pearl was in the restroom. She plopped herself onto her bed without even pulling down the covers. She started thinking about her mother. What would it have been like to talk with her about the same things she discussed with Mia? Topics such as Nick, preparing to be the Master, stories… Mia was the one Maya went to for everything. Mia was like a mother to her. She could still talk to her sister about anything, even in death. Then, her mind wandered over to Nick again. He was always there for her. No matter what, he would love and support her. Such a thought put a smile on her face. Then, Pearl walked in.

“Hi, Mystic Maya!”

“Hello, Pearly!”

“Everything okay?”

“Yes. I’m fine.”

“Are you thinking about Mr. Nick?”

Dang. She figured me out.

“Y-yeah… Kind of…”

“I KNEW what that smile meant. That’s the smile you always get whenever you think about Mr. Nick!”

“Heh heh…”

“Mystic Maya, please tell me what you were thinking about Mr. Nick! Pretty please?”

“Okay, okay. I’ll tell you, Pearly. You caught me, so you have the right to know. He’s just so sweet, caring, and supportive. There are so many words to describe him.”

“Mr. Nick is great!”

Then, Pearl yawned.

“Well, Pearly, it looks like we should get to bed.”

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Maya got up to open it. Nick was the one who knocked.

“Just came to say good night, as promised.”

He walked into the room to see a very delighted Pearl Fey.

“Good night, Mr. Nick!”

She hugged him.

“Good night, Pearls.”

He then turned to Maya. She looked up into his eyes. They looked like sparkling sapphires.

“Good night, my darling Maya.”

“Good night, my lovely Nick.”

They shared a kiss and with that, Nick left. Maya turned off the light, crawled under the covers, and fell asleep.

* * *

The next morning, Nick had to run some errands. Maya and Pearl were eating their breakfast together.

“So, Pearl, we were thinking of going to the mall today. Does that sound good to you?”

“It sounds wonderful!”

Just then, Maya’s cell phone rang. It was Nick. She answered it.

“Hey, Nick.”

“M-Maya… h-h-hi…”

Suddenly, Maya’s heart began to sink. Nick sounded like he was in pain.

“Nick?! Are you okay?”

“I-I… I was sh-shot…”

“You… You were what?!”

Maya’s vision began to blur with her tears forming.

“N… Nick! What happened?! Who shot you?!”

“Hey, hey… relax. Shh… it’s okay. I-I was o-only shot in the leg… I’m being taken to the hospital now…”

Oh thank goodness!

“I’m on my way to the hospital!”

“Maya… Even I’m not there yet and I was the one shot…”

“I don’t care! I’m going right now!”

“Okay… I guess there’s no stopping you.”

“No, there isn’t. I-I… I love you, N-Nick!”

“I love you too, Maya. I’ll see you there…”

With that, she hung up. She had to get to that hospital. There was only one hospital they would take him to. The Hotti Clinic.

“Pearly, get dressed quickly, please!”

“What’s wrong, Mystic Maya?”

“I’ll tell you once we get there, okay? I just need you to get dressed.”

“Okay.”

The two of them dressed and finished getting ready as quickly as possible.

Nick… Please be alright…

Way to take the bull by the horns, Maya!

Maya burst through the doors of the Hotti Clinic with Pearl. She marched over to the reception desk and slammed her hands on the counter.

“I am here to see Phoenix Wright!”

The receptionist was a brunette who had her hair tied back. She smacked her fruity chewing gum and looked to be bored. Her expression did not change when Maya came up so suddenly.

“How do you spell that?”

“W-R-I-G-H-T!!!!!”

She typed the name into the computer.

“I don’t have a file for him at the moment, ma’am.”

“How can you not have a file?! He should have just gotten here!”

“The information has yet to be processed.”

Maya was getting really frustrated with this woman. Her monotone voice seemed to mock the entire situation, in Maya’s opinion.

“Look, you snob! I don’t care if the information has been processed in your stupid computer! All I care about is where my boyfriend is!”

Maya’s cheeks went a little pink after she said the last statement. However, her frustration still remained. Her expression did not falter for a second. The receptionist was no longer apathetic. She looked surprised. It seemed she didn’t expect Maya to be so passionate.

“Don’t worry, ma’am. We can work this out.”

“Mystic Maya! What happened to Mr. Nick?!”

“I’ll tell you in a minute, Pearly.”

“Is everything okay, ma’am?” a nurse asked Maya.

“No, nothing is okay! My boyfriend was shot and no one seems to know where he is!”

“What’s his name?”

“Phoenix Wright!”

“Oh! Mr. Wright is currently undergoing surgery to remove the bullet. I’ll tell you when you can see him. Don’t worry. It was only a shot to the leg.”

“Why does everyone tell me not to worry? My lover was just shot and everyone is telling me not to worry!”

“Ma’am, calm down. Take a deep breath. Just leave him to us right now. We promise to take good care of him.”

Maya closed her eyes and took a breath. She tried to calm herself.

“Okay… okay.”

“Good. Now, would you like to sit down?”

“Yes… yes, I would. Thank you.”

Maya did just that. She took a seat in a black leather seat. Pearl sat in one of the seats next to her.

“Mr. Nick was shot?!”

“… Yes, Pearly. But, don’t worry! He’ll be okay. I know it.”

Pearl sniffled. She nearly broke down to tears. She hugged Maya firmly.

“O-okay, Mystic Maya. He is in more pain than I am. I’m sure you are, too.”

“What?”

“Well, Mr. Nick is your ‘special someone’, so this is probably hurting you very much, right?”

Pearl was right. It felt like a knife just pierced Maya’s heart. When your lover is harmed, you feel the same pain they feel. Her sadness then converted to anger. Who would just shoot Nick like that? Who would want to harm Nick? He never hurt anybody! It just didn’t make sense. Suddenly, a man walked up. He was an older man with a pink tuft of hair, and he wore a doctor’s uniform.

“Hmm, yes, and who might you be?”

“I-is there anything you want, sir?”

“Oh! Hmm, yes, you are a pretty girl indeed, yes.”

“Um… th-thanks…”

“Sure, sure, hmm, yes, hmm. Are you by chance… eh heh heh… single, hmm?”

“N-no, I’m not… Excuse me, but who are you?”

“Hmm, I’m Director Hotti, hmm, yes.”

“There you are, mister!” exclaimed a nurse.

“Hmm, yes, madam?”

“Take off that uniform right now and get back to your room!”

“Don’t fret over a man like me, schnookums, hmm.”

“Don’t you DARE call me ‘schnookums’ again! Leave the poor girl alone!”

“Hmm, yes, okay. It’s time to take my pills, yes. Hmm, good bye, pretty girl, yes.”

With that, he left.

What a creep.

Pearl had fallen asleep, laying her head on Maya’s lap. Maya suddenly realized she felt a little tired. This whole ordeal tired her out. She closed her eyes. Her breathing evened. Maya fell asleep.

* * *

“Miss Fey… Miss Fey…”

Someone was shaking Maya awake. She woke.

“Hmm…?”

“You can see Mr. Wright now.”

“What? Really?!”

“Yes.”

“Thank you! Which room?”

“Room 209.”

Maya ran as fast as she could. Pearl was not far behind her. They finally arrived at the room. Nick was lying there, looking groggy. However, he was wide awake when he saw Maya running up to him.

“Niiick!”

“Maya!”

The two exchanged a hug. Maya kissed Nick’s cheek.

“How are you feeling, Nick?!”

“A lot better now that you’re here.”

Nick gave Maya a smile.

“How did this happen? Who shot you?”

“Well, a couple of robbers came in sporting balaclavas. They were two men. I tried to reason with them, but one of them shot me in the leg. Luckily enough, two cops were in the store, taking a break. They snuck up behind the robbers, with their guns at the ready. The robbers were arrested and I was taken here.”

“Oh, Nick… sounds like such an ordeal!”

“It was. But, you need not worry. The doctors said I’m stable.”

All of a sudden, a red-coated man charged into the room.

“Wright!” Edgeworth called out.

“Edgeworth?”

“I heard you were shot! What happened?!”

“Robbers, Edgeworth. Don’t worry. I’m stable.”

Edgeworth sighed.

“Madness never ends for you, does it, Wright? One day, you’re crossing a burning bridge. Another day, you are shot by robbers.”

Nick chuckled.

“There’s never a dull day, Edgeworth.”

Maya slipped her hand into Nick’s. She gave it a squeeze. A tear trickled down her cheek. She was afraid that one day, this would happen again and she wouldn’t see him.

You can’t leave me.

they should adopt pearls. they practically have already

Maya called Kurain Village to postpone the meeting. She told them an emergency had occurred. The meeting was postponed until further notice. Maya couldn’t leave. Nick had to stay at the hospital for two days. If Nick wasn’t leaving, then Maya wasn’t leaving either. She stayed there every night with him. Pearl stayed with Edgeworth. She would stay there until the day after Nick came back from the clinic. Then, Nick was free to leave. He used a crutch and limped out of the clinic. They finally arrived at the office.

“Do you need anything, Nick? Water? Food? Pillow? Blanket?”

“I’m good, Maya. But, thank you… for everything.”

Maya bit her lip and looked down at the floor. Nick didn’t remove his gaze from her. It looked like the tears were coming back.

“When you first called, I… I was scared. I was afraid… afraid that I would never see you again.”

She walked up to the man who was now sitting on the couch and sat next to him. She folded her hands into her lap.

“The thought of that makes me feel lost. I-I can’t imagine going through life without you.”

She took his hand into hers.

“Maya… you don’t have to be afraid. I’m here. I wouldn’t leave you. I couldn’t. I’m too involved now. My love for you… it’s indescribable.”

“Nick…”

He slid his arm around her waist and pulled her close to him.

“I would never leave you. Never.”

Maya leaned her head onto Nick’s shoulder. She closed her eyes. He kissed the top of her head. Her eyes opened, and she smiled to herself.

“Nick… thank you… The same goes from me to you. I couldn’t leave you. I love you too much.”

Nick gave a small smile. They just sat there for a few minutes, holding each other. Then, Nick’s cell phone rang. Edgeworth was calling.

“Hey, Edgeworth.”

“Wright! How are you feeling?”


“Much better, thanks. How’s Pearls?”

“She’s doing very well. We’re having a lot of fun together.”

“That’s good to hear.”

“Listen, Wright. The robber who shot you… I do believe you know him.”

“Who is he?”

“Robert Burr. Remember him from grade school?”

That’s right. Robert Burr was an arrogant boy who was in Nick’s fourth grade class. He was the person who accused Nick of stealing the lunch money and suggested the class trial. Hearing that name again made Nick cringe. The two of them never got along at all. Burr was always a trouble maker. Nick didn’t stand for Burr’s type of injustice.

“I remember him all too well, Edgeworth.”

“Do not fear. I shall use my prosecution skills to the fullest to make sure he pays for what he has done.”

“Thanks.”

“Erm… Wright. You have to testify at the trial.”

“I figured that. Okay, when’s the trial date?”

“Tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?!”

“Yes. Tomorrow. Can you make it there by ten?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay. See you then, Wright.”

“Okay. Tell Pearls we said ‘hi’.”

“I will. Good bye.”

With that, Edgeworth hung up. Nick slid his cell phone into his pocket.

“What happened, Nick?”

“I have to testify at the trial tomorrow.”

“Oh. Well, that makes sense.”

“Yeah. So, we’re going to start sleeping in my bed together tonight?”

“That’s what I was thinking.”

Nick looked at the clock. It was 8:15pm.

“Well, I’m tired. Would you like to lie down?”

“Sure!”

They went into their separate rooms. Maya changed into her plaid purple flannels and Nick into his gavel-printed blue flannels. The store didn’t carry attorney’s badge- printed flannels, much to Nick’s dismay. After they both brushed their teeth and everything, they pulled down the covers and lied next to each other. Nick put a piece of Maya’s hair between his index and middle finger. He was playing with it. Maya smiled. Nick smiled back.

“Nick…?”

“Yes?”

“I… I don’t want this moment to end…”

“Okay. I’ll carry it out as long as I can. But, don’t worry, Maya. There’ll be plenty more moments like this.”

He held her tight. The two of them were in love with each other. No one could deny it. Their breathing evened. Right before they fell asleep, Maya uttered something.

“What exactly do you plan to say in your testimony tomorrow?”

“The whole truth.”

The scene was courtroom five. Nick was on the witness stand testifying about the events that transpired just a few days earlier. He pointed at the defendant.

“I was shot once in the leg by the defendant.”

The defense attorney whom Maya didn’t recognize yelled ‘hold it’.

“The man who shot you was wearing a balaclava, was he not?”

“Yes, but I recognized his voice when he testified earlier. He was the man. I am one hundred percent positive.

The defendant stood up. His face reddened. He looked tense.

“PHOENIX WRIIIGHT!!! How. Dare. You. Bury. Me!”

He pulled out a pistol and shot Nick right in the chest. Maya’s heart plunged down.

“Niiiiiick!”

She ran over and took Nick into her arms. The entire courtroom was in chaos. Maya was sobbing and she cradled her lover.

“Stop the trial! Don’t let the defendant get away! Send him to the hospital!”

Nick… you can’t die!

* * *

“Ah!”

Maya sat right up. She looked around the room, panting. She was in her flannel pajamas in Nick’s bed. When she realized where she was, she looked in the spot next to her. Nick appeared to be soundly next to her.

It was just a dream. Oh thank goodness!

Maya put her hands on her cheeks. They were wet with tears. She had cried in her sleep. Feeling relieved, she lay back down. She was still breathing heavily. Nick then put an arm around her.

“What are we having tonight, Maya?”

He wasn’t asleep. His eyes were wide open.

“H-huh?”

“I saw you crying. What happened?”

“It was just a nightmare, Nick. A really horrible nightmare.”

“Oh? Do you want to talk about it?"

The two of them were embracing each other. Maya’s head was on Nick’s pillow.

“I-I..."

“It’s okay, Maya. You can tell me anything.”

“I’m… scared. What if the defendant tries to harm you tomorrow? I mean, he IS guilty.”

“Maya, don’t worry about that. Is that what the nightmare was about?”

Maya bit her lip and nodded.

"You were already shot once by that man. Who knows if he'll try to hurt you again? When you're hurt, I'm hurt."

"He won't harm me. It'll all be okay. Trust me."

"... I trust you, Nick."

Nick rubbed Maya's back.

"Now, sleep soundly, my love. I'm here."

Maya nodded. With that, they feel back to sleep.

* * *

The time was ten o'clock. Nick was waiting in the prosecution lobby. This was the first time he was actually in there. He was thinking over what to say in his testimony. Edgeworth told him the defense attorney that day was Tori Vick. She was one of those selfish defense attorneys who only cared about winning. Those kinds of lawyers annoyed Nick so much. Pearl was staying with Gumshoe for the day. Edgeworth couldn't take her. Then, the baliff walked in.

"Mr. Wright, you have been summoned to the witness stand."

"Thank you, sir."

Nick limped into the courtroom. He looked at the balconies. Maya was looking down at him. She gave him a small smile. He returned one back. Then, Edgeworth spoke.

"Witness. Can you please state your name and occupation?"

"Phoenix Wright. I am a defense attorney."

Then, it was the judge's turn to cut in.

"Mr. Wright! What has happened to your leg?!"

"OBJECTION! Your Honor, I have called this witness to tell us the events that transpired that day. All will become clear once the testimony is given."

"Y-yes... Quite right, Mr. Edgeworth. Mr. Wright! Your testimony, if you please. Tell us about the events that day!"

"Yes, Your Honor. I was in a jewelry store to erm... purchase an item. Suddenly, these two armed men in balaclavas burst through the doors. They told everyone to put their hands on their head. I did just that, but I tried to reason with them. The defendant shot me in the leg. Thankfully, two police officers were there and arrested them."

"Hmm... I see. Ms. Vick. You may begin your cross-examination."

"Yes, Your Honor. Mr. Wright, what was this item you were going to purchase?"

"It was a necklace."

"You wear necklaces?"

"As a matter of fact, I don't. The necklace was for my girlfriend."

"Who is your girlfriend?"

"OBJECTION!" Edgeworth shouted, "Your Honor, this matter is very much irrelevant to the case."

"Objection sustained. Ms. Vick, you are to drop this line of questioning."

"Mr. Wright, how did you try to reason with the robbers?"

"I told them what would happen if they were caught and told them that robbery wasn't the answer to whatever they hoped to accomplish."

"At that time, did you notice the two police officers?"

"No, I did not. I overheard the two of them talking about buying some anniversary present for their wife. I didn't look to see who was talking."

"How do you know it was the defendant who shot you?"

"The officers removed the balaclavas once they handcuffed the robbers. I made sure to get a good look at the two of them. The one on the left was the one who shot me, and I'm positive it was the defendant standing on the left."

Then, a shout came from the defendant's seat.

"Is this your idea of revenge, Phoenix Wright?!"

"... A silly class trial from seventeen years ago wouldn't make me take revenge. I'm not taking revenge, Mr. Burr. I am simply stating the facts. You may not like them, but that is what they are. You caused such a truth to happen. It is my duty to tell it to the court."

"... GRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I... I... I confess... I confess to what I've done!"

Robert Burr sobbed. For once, he realized the severity of his actions. He walked up to the witness stand. Nick moved out of the way.

"Mr. Burr!" the judge shouted, "Take your seat!"

He ignored this.

"Phoenix Wright... thank you. What you said just now... it was so powerful. I-I get it now. Thank you. Your Honor!"

"Y-yes?!"

"I accept these charges."

"W-well, then! I am ready to deliver a verdict! The defendant Robert Burr is..."

"OBJECTION!"

"Who was that?"

"Me!"

The one who had shouted was Tori Vick.

"I can't lose! The defendant is not guilty! NOT GUILTY!"

"But, I am guilty, Ms. Vick. I admit it."

"No, you are not! I tell you what and what not to admit! I am your attorney!"

"Well, in that case, I assert my right to self-representation. I have not been convicted of anything in the past. I admit my guilt, Your Honor. Now, my verdict, if you please?"

"ARRRRGGGH!!!! ROBERT BURR!!!!!!! YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME!!!!!!"

"Ms. Vick, get a grip," the judge demanded, "He is no longer your client. He most certainly has the right to self-representation and he asserts that right. The defendant Robert Burr is guilty! That is all. This court is adjourned."

With that, the judge slammed his gavel and everyone exited the courtroom. Maya ran up to Nick.

"Nick... you went there to buy me a necklace?"

"Yes, I did. In fact... hey, Edgeworth!"

Edgeworth was walking by. Then, he walked over to Nick. He held a box in his hand.

"It's time, Wright?"

"It's time."

Edgeworth handed the long box to Nick. He gave it to Maya.

"For you, my dear."

Maya opened the box. Inside was a silver heart-shaped locket. Engraved in the front of the locket in cursive letters was "Nick and Maya". She opened it. On the inside was a picture that a couple took of Nick and Maya when they were kissing on their first date. Maya's eyes watered up a little.

"Nick... thank you! I love it so much! It's beautiful!"

She put it on and then pulled Nick towards her. Their bodies were touching. She looked up into his eyes. Her arms were wrapped around his neck. His arms were around her waist.

"You are the best boyfriend any girl could ever ask for."

"Well, any guy would be lucky to have you. I'm just glad I am that guy."

They then shared another long passionate kiss. They completely forgot Edgeworth was standing right there. Maya intertwined her fingers with Nick's hair. He pulled her even closer to him so now that her body was pressed up against his. Finally, Edgeworth cleared his throat.

"Oh! Sorry, Edgeworth."

"Get a room, Wright. Well, I best be off. Goodbye, Wright. Goodbye, Maya."

"Bye, Edgeworth."

"Bye, Mr. Edgeworth!"

"Well, Maya, shall we be off?"

"Yes, I believe so, Nick."

Nick picked up the necklace box. Then, they made their way home. Maya was everything to him. He would never let her go.

Nick and Maya went out to dinner. Then, they picked up Pearl. When they got home, Pearl was jumping up and down.

“Mr. Nick! Mystic Maya! Kiss, kiss, kiss!”

“W-whoa! Calm down there, Pearls! Did Detective Gumshoe give you candy?”

“Maaaaaybe…”

“Oh dear…”

“Pearly, why don’t you get dressed for bed?”

“Okay, Mystic Maya!”

Then, the office phone rang. Nick answered it.

"Wright and Co. Law Offices. Phoenix Wright speaking."

"Yes, Mr. Wright. We have already met. This is Tori Vick."

"Ah, yes. What would be your business, Ms. Vick?"

"Mr. Wright... I am not one to fail. I need information. I need some closure. It's a tough time for me. I just... I need to find out. Something interesting was said by Mr. Burr today. He said something about revenge. What revenge was he speaking of?"

"Ms. Vick, that has nothing to do with the case. I know your type. You are one of those attorneys who doesn't care about the client. You don't care if they are guilty or innocent. All you care about is your record... your career. Sure, your life is important as well. However, you aren't the one being put at risk in that courtroom. You are the one who has the life of a human being in your hands."

"But, I don't understand. What's the difference? If the defendant is given a 'not guilty' verdict, what does it matter if I care about them?"

"I had a case two years ago. I found out about a certain case where the defense attorney didn't care about his client. That client's name was dragged through the mud even though he was handed a 'not guilty' verdict. He lost everything as a result. Ms. Vick, I sense that you are one of those people who is tough and cold on the outside while you are warm and compassionate on the inside. Sometimes, your outside personality is necessary, depending on the situation. However, if you keep that exterior, you will not get the strongest weapon in the world at it's abundance. Friendship. You won't get far without it."

"... Excuse me, Mr. Wright, but I believe I already have. My win record was spotless until today."

"Maybe so... however, that is in the career world. In the scheme of things, you aren't doing well at all. I am willing to bet that you are lonely... all you have is the law. Sure, the law is always there... Here's the reality, though. You may love the law, but it'll never love you back the way a human could."

"... Good night, Mr. Wright..."

"Good night, Ms. Vick..."

With that, they both hung up. Then, it was Maya's turn to speak.

"What did Ms. Vick want?"

"She wanted to know about Mr. Burr and the revenge statement he made."

"You mean the one asking if you were taking revenge?"

"Yes."

"What was that statement about, Nick?"

"Remember the class trial I told you about?"

"Of course I do! The one where Mr. Edgeworth and Larry saved you!"

"Well, Mr. Burr was the one who suggested the class trial. He was always arrogant. We never got along."

"Oh, I get it! Nick... I love what you said to Ms. Vick just now. About how the law will never love you back the way a human could. That was just so beautiful... so powerful..."

Maya walked up close to him and put her hands on his chest. He lifted up her chin so that she was looking into his eyes.

"Thanks, Maya... I do love the law. But, I love you more."

He gave her a peck on the lips. She hugged him.

"I love you, too."

She yawned.

"I should get ready for bed."

"Me too."

With that, they parted ways to their rooms. Maya would sleep with Pearl again. Then, the next day, they were taking her back to Kurain. The meeting was scheduled at three. Maya had made arrangements for Nick to stay in her room. With that, the three of them retired for the night and slipped quietly into their own dream worlds.

* * *

"Nick! Don't forget your tie!"

Nick ran into the kitchen with his blue suit pants on as well as his white shirt. He then did his tie, put on his suit coat, and put the attorney's badge on his lapel.

"Would you like some breakfast, Mr. Nick?"

"No thanks, Pearls, but thank you for the lovely offer."

"Nick, we aren't going to eat until we get there."

"Maya, if anyone should worry about their stomach, it should be you. We all know about your love for the culinary arts."

"Anyway, we should get going. We don't want to miss the train."

The three of them went to the train station and bought the tickets. About thirty minutes later, the train arrived.

"Tickets, please," the conductor directed.

They handed him their tickets. He punched them and gave them back. Pearl and Maya sat next to each other and Nick was sitting in front of them. The conversation on the train didn't really flow at first. Then, of course, Pearl had to say something.

"Mystic Maya?"

"Yes, Pearly?"

"When are you and Mr. Nick going to stop hiding your feelings for each other in front of me?"

"P-Pearly! We love each other. You know that."

"I know, but you two never show it like normal couples. Well, at least I don't see it."

"Didn't you see it when Detective Gumshoe barged in a few days ago?"

"Yes, but you two stopped."

"It was a sudden thing, Pearly. No one is hiding anything from you. It just never seems to happen when you're around. I don't know why that is, but I do know it has nothing to do with you."

Maya started playing with her locket.

"What's that?"

"Oh? O-oh! It's a present Nick gave me."

"Mr. Nick gave you a present?! I wanna see Mr. Nick's present!"

Nick chuckled. Little Pearl was so cute.

"Okay, okay. Fair enough. Here."

Maya let Pearl hold the heart part of the locket without taking it off her neck.

"It says 'Nick and Maya' on the front!"

Then, Pearl opened it. Oh boy, was she pleased.

"Mr. Nick and Mystic Maya are kissing!!!!!"

Then, the singing came again.

"Mr. Nick and Mystic Maya sitting in a tree! K-I-S-S-I-N-G! Heh heh heh!"

"It was on a boat, Pearly."

It was a mistake to tell Pearl that. She was singing her revised version of the song for most of the train ride.

"Mr. Nick and Mystic Maya sitting on the ferry! K-I-S-S-I-N-G!"

"Nice going, Maya."

Finally, the singing ceased. Pearl stood up to get out of her seat.

"Pearly! What are you doing?"

"I want you and Mr. Nick to sit together! After all, you are his girlfriend!"

"P-Pearly..."

"Pleeeeeaaaaase, Mystic Maya?"

"... Alright. You can take the empty seat next to Nick."

Pearl sat down, satisfied. Nick got up and moved to the seat where Pearl was sitting. Maya leaned her head on Nick's shoulder. Almost forty-five minutes later, they had arrived to where they were headed.

"Ready, Maya?"

"Ready, Nick."

"Let's do this."

Pearl exited the train with Nick and Maya, who were holding hands. She was jumping up and down. The three of them were greeted by an old woman. She smiled at them.

“Ah, Mystic Maya, you have arrived!”

Maya returned a warm smile.

“Yes, I am. It’s nice to be home.”

“I’m sure it is. I see you have brought a visitor.”

“Oh, yes. Mystic Meredith, this is Phoenix Wright. He is…”

“Mr. Nick is Mystic Maya’s boyfriend!” Pearl chimed in. Maya blushed at that last remark. Mystic Meredith gave a slightly shocked look.

“O-oh… Mystic Maya, I had no idea you had a boyfriend.”

“Y-yeah. Word never got around to Kurain about it.”

“Well, that makes sense.”

“Anyway, Nick, this is Mystic Meredith. She is one of the elders here.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mystic Meredith,” Nick said sticking his hand out. She shook it.

“The pleasure is all mine, Mr. Wright. What a polite boyfriend you have, Mystic Maya!”

“Yes, he is polite. I love him so much.”

She hugged him tighter. He grinned.

“Well, the meeting starts in an hour. I’ll make some last minute arrangements for Mr. Wright’s rooming.”

“That won’t be necessary, Mystic Meredith. I wish for Mr. Wright to stay with me.”

Mystic Meredith raised her eyebrows.

“A-as you wish, Mystic Maya.”

Pearl giggled and covered her mouth with her hands.

“C’mon, Nick. I’ll show you the room.”

She pulled him and ran into the manor. Then, she opened a door. The room was rather large with a giant magatama poster displayed on the wall. There was one king size bed. A giant window overlooked the garden.

Maya, this room is absolutely gorgeous.”

“Isn’t it?”

“Yes. However, no room can match your beauty.”

Maya smiled, grabbed Nick by his lapels, and kissed him.

“Hey,” Maya started, putting her index finger in front of Nick’s lips, “After the meeting, why don’t we do something afterwards? We could walk around the park near the village or something.”

“That sounds very nice. I’m in.”

“Okay. I’m going to change into my kimono.”

“Alright.”

With that, Maya went into the giant closet in the room. Nick sighed and put his hands in his pockets. He wanted to be allowed into that meeting. He wanted to make sure Maya wasn’t judged due to her staying with him instead of being in Kurain the entire time. She was going through so much emotionally at the moment. The death of her mother, her new duties… it’ll really be too much if she had to leave him forever. Nick wasn’t going to let that happen. Finally, Maya emerged from the closet. She was gorgeous in her kimono. Her hair was clipped up in the back instead of being in the usual top knot.

I couldn’t ask for a more beautiful girl.

“What do you think, Nick?”

“Maya, you look stunning beyond belief.”

She beamed. The two of them sat down on the bed next to each other.

“Nick… will you be present at the meeting?”

“Am I allowed to be there?”

“I’m the Master, remember? You’re allowed to be there if I say you are.”

“That’s quite some power you wield.”

“Yeah. The meeting shouldn’t be too long. We are just going over some possible changes.”

“Okay. I’ll be there. Anything for you, my dear.”

“Well, it’s about time to get going.”

They walked over to the Meditation Hall. The doors were open. The elders sat on the floor. Maya and Nick joined them.

“Alright, this meeting is now in session,” Mystic Meredith announced. The doors were then closed.

“If the elders don’t mind, I wish for Mr. Wright to be present during today’s meeting despite the fact it deals with Kurain affairs.”

“Permission granted,” Mystic Mary proclaimed.

“If it pleases the Court of Kurain, I would now like to discuss affairs with Hazakurain Temple,” Maya requested.

“Does the court wish to discuss this topic? If so, raise your hands.”

The majority of the court raised their hands.

“The topic is now Hazakurain.”

Maya talked about possibly more advertising about the temple to the spirit medium community. She also suggested building another temple near the inner temple. The court seemed to share her views. The meeting went smoothly until the very end.

“Before we conclude today’s meeting, I have a question for the Master,” Mystic Marsha stated.

“Yes?”

“We have noticed that you haven’t been in the village much lately. How are you supposed to fulfill your duties whilst you reside in the city?”

“I can monitor the village even if I am in the city.”

“It’s him, isn’t it?” she asked, motioning to Nick.

Maya pursed her lips.

“Your lover is keeping you in the city.”

“That is irrelevant. Mr. Wright is not keeping me in the city against my will. I chose to reside there with him.”

“I see. So, you want to abandon your duties to be with your boyfriend.”

“That’s not it at all…”

“Oh, come now. He seems to mean a lot to you. That must be it. Because of him, you no longer have interest in your duties.”

Maya’s lip quivered. Tears started to fill her eyes.

“Mystic Marsha, is it?” Nick questioned.

“What of it?”

“I can assure you Maya will be able to carry out her duties to the fullest. Now, our relationship has nothing to do with her being the Master of this village. She has worked very hard to come up with plans to improve Kurain. Ma’am, I don’t know what you’re trying to pull here, but whatever it is, I can guarantee you won’t get away with it. I’ll see to it myself.”

Mystic Marsha was speechless. Then, Mystic Meredith began to speak.

“This concludes today’s session.”

Then, all of the elders stood up and left. Maya and Nick stayed in their spots. Maya let a couple of tears fall.

“I-is that what the village thinks of me? Some apathetic girl who doesn’t care about her people or her duties?”

“Maya, that was one very misguided woman. Everyone else didn’t seem to think that. I don’t think that.”

He flung an arm around her waist and pulled her close. She looked into his eyes. He brushed her bangs to the side and kissed her forehead.

“Don’t worry. We’ll get through this.”

“… Okay. I believe you, Nick. I trust you.”