Maya and Nick walked back to their room. Maya seemed very gloomy the whole way there. It seemed that she still wasn’t over Mystic Marsha’s comments in the meeting. He loathed her for what she said to Maya. She had to have known Maya was in pain, but she disregarded that. Mystic Marsha didn’t deserve to be an elder. She was far too narrow-minded. Maya wasn’t like that. Maya always kept an open mind. She thought of all those changes for the good of Kurain.

“Mystic Maya!” a high-pitched voice called out. It was Pearl.

“Pearly!”

“How did the meeting go?”

“It… erm… went well for the most part…”

“Yay! That’s good news indeed! So, what are we going to do now? Are you and Mr. Nick going to go out on a date?”

“Probably. We’re just going to freshen up first.”

“Okay! I’m going to draw a picture in my room!”

“Okay, Pearly!”

Then, Pearl ran off. The two of them arrived at their room. Maya closed the door behind her. Nick was checking out his hair in the mirror. In the reflection of the mirror, he saw a very depressed Maya Fey. She put her flexed hand in front of her mouth and tears began to roll down her cheeks.

I thought I cheered her up at least a little.

Nick walked over to Maya and sat down next to her.

“Come here,” he muttered with open arms. Maya nodded and scooted close to her lover. She leaned her head against his shoulder. Nick grasped her very tightly.

“What’s wrong, Maya? Why release the tears?”

“N-Nick… It’s just hitting me… everything that’s happening now... Mystic Marsha just reminded me of e-e-everything… she dug the melancholy back up to the surface. Now, it’s showing its ugly face, and now we’re here.”

She sniffled and let out some more sobs. That witch of a spirit medium did this to her. Mystic Marsha… she will not get away with this.

“Maya… don’t worry. I’ll sort this out. Nobody messes with my girlfriend. Why would that “Mystic” Marsha antagonize you like that?”

“Oh, she deserves her title. She’s not too shabby when it comes to being a spirit medium.”

“She doesn’t deserve that title if she tries to make the Master of Kurain cry.”

“And she was successful. Maybe I’m the one who is not worthy of my title.”

“Maya, don’t say that. You most certainly do deserve your title. You performed beautifully in that meeting today. That “Mystic” Marsha was the only one in that room who didn’t respect you. Everyone else listened and agreed with everything you had to present to them. So far, I think you are doing a really good job at being the Master of Kurain. I know that if I were in your position, then I would certainly have failed by now.”

“You could never be in my position, remember? You’re a man.”

She blushed a little when she said man. He chuckled.

“Well, that is, if I were a woman…”

“Stop right there, Nick. I’m dating Phoenix Wright, not Phoenixia Wright. Don’t make me date a woman.”

“As long as you don’t make me date a man, you’ve got a deal.”

“It’s settled, then.”

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Nick opened it. At the other end stood Mia channeled by Pearl.

“M-Mia! What are you doing here?”

“Well, that’s quite a… erm… “warm” greeting, Phoenix. Do you greet everyone like that or just me?”

“Sorry, Mia. Hello. I’m just surprised to see you.”

“Hello, Phoenix. That’s quite alright. Pearl channeled me. I am guessing something is wrong?”

“Siiiiis!”

“Hey, Maya!”

The two sisters hugged.

“So, is there something wrong, Maya?”

“Only what you know. Well…”

“Yes?”

“We had a meeting. It was going smoothly, until Mystic Marsha spoke up. She was commenting that I haven’t been in the village a lot and saying I don’t care about my duties or my people. She raised all of the internal battles I’ve had back to the surface.”

“Oh, that Mystic Marsha can be quite the witch sometimes. She was never a warm person.”

“Luckily, Nick was there to defend me.”

“I-It was nothing…”

“Oh, stop being modest, Nick.”

“Phoenix, what else did she say?”

“She said that all Maya wanted to do was prance around the city with her boyfriend. She said she no longer has interest in her duties because she is now with me.”

“Tsk tsk tsk. Mystic Marsha has strong spiritual power. I think she wants the position as Master for herself.”

“Isn’t it possible that she is plotting with Morgan to make Pearls the next Master?”

“No. Mystic Marsha hates my aunt with a passion. She would never work with her. My bet is Mystic Marsha wants the Court of Kurain to believe Maya would not make a suitable Master. Then, she’ll also wants to convince them that Pearl can’t fulfill the duties of the Master either. That part wouldn’t be too hard, considering Pearl is only a child. As a woman with great spiritual power, with Maya and Pearl out of the way, Mystic Marsha would receive the title as Master of Kurain.”

“That’s a very elaborate plot, Mia.”

“It may be, but we always figured out the elaborately planned cases, didn’t we, Phoenix?”

“You got me there… that actually seems to make a lot of sense.”

“Sis… Mystic Marsha is going to overthrow me?”

“No, she won’t. We won’t let her.”

“How are we going to stop her?”

“You guys will figure something out. I better give Pearl back her body now. So, for now, this is goodbye.”

“Bye, Sis.”

They hugged again, only this time, the grip was tighter. Then, Nick and Mia hugged.

“Goodbye, Phoenix.”

“Bye, Mia.”

Mia walked out of the room, closing the door behind her.

“Nick…”

“Let’s picnic in the park, Maya. We can talk there.”

“O-okay… let’s go!”

Nick and Maya strolled over to a nearby park called “Spirit Square”. In Maya’s hand was a picnic basket. Before they left, Nick grilled burgers. Finally, they found a good spot to set up their blanket. Nick laid it out and the two of them sat on it. Maya didn’t care that she was still in her kimono. The only thing she cared about at the moment was who she was with. She could think about her situation later. That could be put on hold. Her feelings for Nick could not. Nick cupped his hand on her cheek.

“What’s on your mind, Maya?”

“… You.”

“Me?”

“Yes. You. Right now, that’s all I want to think about.”

Nick was beaming. He took a bite out of his burger and opened his water bottle.

“You’re drinking WATER?”

“Yeah… why?”

“That’s a boring beverage.”

Maya took out a bottle of her favorite fountain drink. It was called “Maga Cola”.

“Maya, you’re going to be bouncing off the walls.”

“Nah, I don’t think so. I’m used to it.”

She took a sip. Nick shook his head.

“Why is it called ‘Maga Cola’ anyway?”

“Maga as in magatama.”

“I see… so it’s a spirit medium soft drink?”

“It was manufactured by spirit mediums.”

“I see…”

“Nick… thank you.”

“What are you thanking me for?”

“For today… you always support me. Thank you for standing up for me.”

“I’d do it any day.”

Maya smiled. She pulled him closer to her in an embrace.

“Could I really ask for a better man?”

“I don’t know. Could you?”

“You know what… I don’t think I could. I have all the man I need right here.”

“I couldn’t ask for a better woman. So sweet… so beautiful. A woman who has a voice so melodic, it’s as if the angels are singing… wow. I never thought I’d be this sappy.”

“You may be sappy right now… but I like it.”

“Maybe I should be sappy more often.”

“Maybe you should.”

“Maybe I will.”

“Good…”

At this point, their voices were no louder than a mutter. Then, they went into a long passionate kiss. Maya and Nick sunk down onto the blanket. She wrapped herself around him and kissed him back fervently. Slowly, they broke apart. Their noses were grazing. Maya lowered her eyelids. Nick slowly swept her bangs to the side. He played with them with his index and middle finger.

“Nick… I don’t want this evening to end.”

“Okay. We can lay here and drag it out as long as we can.”

“Okay…”

So, they did just that. Later, a high-pitched voice called out to them once again. As suspected, it was one Pearl Fey.

“Mystic Maya! Mr. Nick!”

“P-Pearly!”

The two of them immediately sat up.

“Tee hee. You two are so cute.”

They both blushed. How could a little kid make them blush so much?

“Pearly, you channeled my sis earlier?”

“Yep! I figured you wanted to see her again, Mystic Maya!”

“O-oh, I see. Well, it was a pleasant surprise!”

“I was hoping you’d like it! Did you enjoy her visit, too, Mr. Nick?”

“It was a pleasure to see her again!”

“Goodie!”

“Pearls! What do you have in your hand there?”

“Oh, this was the drawing I was making! I wanted you two to see it!”

“Pearly, I want to see your drawing!”

“Yes, Pearls, I would love to see it too!”

“Okay! Here it is!”

Pearl handed Nick the drawing. When he looked at it, his heart skipped a beat. He started to blush once more.

“P-Pearls… this is wonderful…”

“Really? Thank you, Mr. Nick!”

“Can I see it, Nick?”

“Yep. Here you go.”

He handed Maya the drawing. Maya gasped. She put her hand over her mouth. Then, she started to blush again, too.

“I-I-I… it’s so cute, Pearly! I love it!”

“I thought you and Mr. Nick could hang it in your room!”

“That we will, Pearly. That we will.”

Pearl gave an angelic smile.

“Well, we should head back. It’s almost time for bed, Pearly.”

“Okay, Mystic Maya!”

Nick and Maya packed up. Then, the three of them went back to the manor. Maya took a couple of pins and hung the drawing in their room. Dressed in their pajamas, Nick and Maya crawled into bed. They held onto each other.

“Good night, Maya.”

“Good night, Nick.”

This is the romantic chapter. Maya needed that romance after Mystic Marsha.

“Mystic Meredith, may I speak to you in private?”

“Certainly, Mystic Marsha.”

The two of them walked into Mystic Meredith’s room. Mystic Marsha closed the door.

“Mystic Meredith, do you really think Mystic Maya has what it takes to be the Master of our fine society.”

“With all honesty, I do believe she can. Mystic Maya is a woman who is very wise. She always makes things work out in the end. It is my belief that the same will happen in this situation. She will be able to monitor affairs in Kurain while staying in the city.”

“How is that possible, Mystic Meredith?! One cannot maintain the respectable village of Kurain whilst residing in the city! It is nigh on impossible!”

“It is possible. I know it. I’ve seen it. I know you have, too.”

“I beg your pardon?!”

“Mystic Misty… you don’t remember? She went to the city for a while.”

“Yes… for the DL-6 case.”

“No, she went before that as well. Don’t you remember? Mystic Misty went to the city in order to get in touch with urban spirit mediums. There were a few of them out there. There still are. Anyway, that’s when she met that defense attorney, remember? Will Paramour? She fell in love with him. Married him, in fact. After the two of them were wed and went on their honeymoon, Mystic Misty decided to stay in the city. Mystic Maya has always been like her mother. That’s one of the reasons why I believe in her.”

“Yes, but Mystic Maya doesn’t want to wait until she is married! She wants to live with that Phoenix Wright right now, and we can’t wait until they get married to act!”

“… When you say we can’t wait to act…”

“I don’t think Mystic Maya has what it takes to be the Master. I believe that if we act now, then we can save our precious village.”

“Funny… I sense a bit of de ja vu. Perhaps history is repeating itself? I recall the same thing happening years ago.”

“What do you mean? Are you talking about Mystic Maya and that lawyer? It’s just like her mother.”

“Well, not exactly. Anyway, that’s not what I’m talking about. You wanted to overthrow Mystic Misty too.”

Mystic Marsha was speechless. It was true. She wanted Mystic Misty to be overthrown from her position as well.

“I’ll have you know it isn’t going to happen, Mystic Marsha. If you try to corrupt Mystic Maya or anyone involved with her just so someone else becomes the Master of Kurain, you will be banished from the village.”

Mystic Marsha said nothing. She opened the door, slammed it, and stomped off.

I deserve that position much more than anyone here.

She stopped in her tracks when she heard a giggling coming from Mystic Maya’s room. She pressed her ear up against the wood.

* * *

“Oh, Nick… what time are we leaving?”

“Our tickets are at noon. Pearls is staying here, right?”

“Yeah… but, I’m kind of worried about her.”

“We’ve always had this arrangement.”

“I know, but even so. She’s the only family I have.”

“Yeah. What am I categorized under, if not family?”

“You’re my boyfriend. You belong in your own category.”

She gave him a kiss. He pulled her closer to him as they lied on the bed.

“I’m touched. You know where you belong?”

“Where?”

“Right here in my arms.”

Maya grinned. She squeezed him.

“When I’m with you… I forget all of the evils I’ve had to face. There’s something about you. I’m not certain what it is, but whatever it may be, it makes everything okay.”

“Maya, all I care about is your happiness. Whatever I can do, you name it.”

“Okay. Thank you, Nick.”

“Happy to help.”

Maya got up and drew open the curtains. She winced as the morning light poured into the bedroom. Nick sat up and yawned, stretching his arms in the air. He rubbed his eyes. Maya walked over to him and drew him into an everlasting kiss. When they broke, Nick looked confused.

“We’re doing morning kisses now? Because that certainly woke me up.”

“Nick, you’re such a dork.”

Maya sat down next to him on the bed. She wrapped her arms around his neck. He put his hands on her waist. Their faces were centimeters away from each other.

“So, it was a mercy kiss?”

“Nick, shut up,” she murmured, apparently ready for another kiss. He understood.

“… Okay.”

They went into yet another everlasting kiss. Then, suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Maya went to open it. To her surprise, it was Mystic Marsha.

“Good morning, Mystic Maya.”

“Good morning, Mystic Marsha.”

“Are the two of you packed yet?”

“Not yet. It won’t take long to pack. No need for any worry.”

“Oh, I’m not worried. I’m just… curious.”

Maya gave a sullen facial expression. She was in no mood for Mystic Marsha’s antics today. All she wanted was a wonderful day with Nick.

“Well, I’m going to change, Mystic Marsha.”

“In front of your lover?!”

“Would it be a problem if I was going to?”

“W-well…”

“I’m just asking because I don’t think it’s anybody’s business what I do with my boyfriend. What goes on between us stays between us.”

Mystic Marsha looked offended. Nick was very pleased with Maya’s defiant attitude towards Mystic Marsha.

“O-of course… right.”

Then, Mystic Marsha left. Apparently, she didn’t want to stick around to argue further with Maya. She also didn’t want to see Maya changing in front of Nick. Maya closed the door.

“Maya, that was amazing!”

“Really?”

“Yes! The confidence was practically oozing out of you. Absolutely smashing!”

“Thank you.”

“You’re not really changing in front of me, are you?”

“Would it be a problem if I did?”

“N-no. I’m just saying. I don’t want to make you uncomfortable or anything.”

“No, I’m not changing in front of you. Not yet.”

“Not ‘yet’?”

“Nick, don’t be naïve. If we stay together, then I would be comfortable enough to change in front of you.”

“Well, yeah, of course. I want to stay together forever. I love you too much to let you go. I can’t lose you.”

Once again, Maya smiled.

“I love you, too. I want to stay together forever, too. I’m just… well… a little shy to change in front of my boyfriend right now.”

“I understand that.”

“I’m glad. Well, we should get ready. We don’t want to miss our train.”

“Right.”

The two of them changed in separate rooms and packed up. Once they said their goodbyes, they went on the train and left the village of Kurain.

While reading that chapter I got a weird notion that Mystic Marsha is going to kidnap Pearl.
Weird

Nick took Maya out to an Italian restaurant in town. It was called “Questo è La Vita”. The dinner was candle lit.

“Nick, this is lovely.”

“I thought you’d enjoy it. Unfortunately, they don’t have burgers here.”

“That’s okay. I’m with you. Besides, I had a burger last night, remember? During our picnic rendezvous.”

“Ha, yeah. Did you have a good time last night?”

“I always have a good time with you.”

Just then, the waiter walked up. He was tall and thin with a receding hairline.

“May I take your order, Sir and Madame?”

“Are you ready, Maya?”

“I am when you are, Nick.”

“Ladies first.”

“Why, thank you. I’ll have the lasagna.”

“Would you like meat or marinara sauce with the side dish of pasta?”

“Meat.”

“Okay. And for you, Sir?”

“I’ll have the chicken parmesan.”

“Okay. That comes with your choice of soup. Tonight’s soups are tomato basil and chicken dumpling.”

“I’ll have tomato basil.”

The waiter took their menus, bowed his head, and marched off. Nick folded his hands on the table.

“So, what would you like to do after this?”

“Whatever you’d like, Nick.”

“I took you to the restaurant.”

“I took you to the park.”

“You took me to the park. I took you here. This means it’s your turn.”

“… You got me there.”

Nick chuckled. Suddenly, they heard a shout from a man a few booths away from them.

“You’re insane!” the man yelled. He was young and sported short brown hair. A cigarette was behind his right ear. He was speaking to a mysterious person wearing a very loose balaclava.

“Why are so many people wearing those lately?” Nick whispered.

“I assure you, I very much am aware of my actions, sir,” the mysterious person calmly spoke. It appeared as if they were keeping their voice in a deep tone. The person reminded Nick so much of Morgan Fey. But, it couldn’t be her. Could it?

“Such a devious plan… even I’m not capable of such a thing.”

“I came to you because you are one of the best. Mr. de Killer is on vacation, is he not? So, I sought you out. You have a high success rate.”

“Yes, but that’s not the point. I’m considering quitting this business.”

“Are you, now?”

“As a matter of fact, yes. The business is no longer satisfying. Sure, I get paid large sums of cash, but I must no longer live my life on greed. I have to think of principle.”

“Principle, huh? Well, consider this principle, if you will. One cannot live a life without capital.”

“There are other legitimate ways to make my wealth.”

“Yes, but would it help if you had no choice EXCEPT assassination?”

“Meaning?”

“Meaning if you don’t take my services, I will hire somebody more courageous. My previous hit list will be under their services as well as an added name. Would you like for your name to be added to such a list?”

The man gulped. He grabbed his black trench coat, put it on, and fastened the buttons.

“Think about it, sir.”

Nick and Maya were the only ones listening. Many people in the restaurant were loud, but these particular people caught their attention. The man looked like he was mulling over the situation. His face hardened. It appeared he made his decision.

“Can we go to the restroom? I’d like to speak in private.”

“Certainly.”

The two of them walked into the women’s room. The mystery person pulled the man in there. Nick got up shortly after they entered the room.

“Nick, what are you doing?! It’s too dangerous!”

“I have to, Maya. It’s important.”

“For who?”

“If my suspicions are correct, possibly you.”

Maya froze. She didn’t have a comeback. Nick crept over to the bathroom door. There was a tiny hole he could peek through.

“I’d rather die than do your bidding.”

“… That’s unfortunate for you, sir.”

“What are you going to do now? What’s your name?”

“… I suppose I can tell you. It’s not like it matters much anyway.”

Suddenly, the man gasped. Nick couldn’t see why. The hairs on his neck stood up.

“Mallory Fey.”

All of a sudden, the man let out a blood-curdling scream. Nick saw him fall to the ground. Quickly and quietly, Nick moved away from the door back to his booth.

“Maya, we have to get out of here.”

“W-why, Nick?”

“There’s no time. Just trust me right now!”

“O-okay, Nick.”

They ran outside. Nick called the police. No one was allowed to leave until their statements were given. They gave their statements and went back home.

“Nick… I’m just glad you aren’t hurt.”

Maya wouldn’t stop kissing him for the rest of the night. She was so relieved that he wasn’t caught up in the argument. Sometimes, Nick stuck his nose where it didn’t belong. She loved him and couldn’t imagine a world without him.

“It was weird though, Maya.”

“Well, I figured witnessing a murder wouldn’t be an every day thing.”

“No, that’s not what I’m talking about.”

“Then, what are you talking about?”

“When the lady said her name, I could swear I recognized her voice.”

“I don’t know of a Mallory Fey.”

“She shares your name.”

“Even so, I don’t know her. She’s definitely not an elder, and I haven’t heard a single thing about her. That’s really strange.”

“See? I knew there was something fishy. She must be connected.”

“Connected to what?”

“Connected to what Mia was predicting.”

“You did WHAT, Mystic Mallory?!”

“I had to! I’m sorry, Mother!”

“You were supposed to INTIMIDATE him, not KILL him!”

“It just got out of hand, Mother!”

“Now, we must activate plan b!”

“What’s plan b?”

“I can’t tell you yet. It’s not complete yet. I’m putting the final pieces together. Her lover is the key here. It is not possible to convince the court to make her step down with him here. However, if we were to take him away, she will be so distraught that she will be unable to so much as think about her duties.”

“Mother, that is way too barbaric. I’m not sure I could be capable of performing such an act.”

“You will do as I say. No questions asked, Mystic Mallory.”

“Which reminds me. I told the victim my name.”

“What?! He could be channeled! He could testify to the court!”

“Did you already forget that nobody calls me by my real name anymore?”

“… That’s right. Oh, you’re a clever one.”

“Thank you. Well, I must hang up now. I’m expecting another call.”

“Okay. Goodbye, Mystic Mallory.”

“Goodbye, Mother.”

* * *

Maya’s heart was pounding. She was so afraid. Who was this Mallory Fey? She didn’t know of anyone in her family by that name. This was going to bother her until she found out the absolute truth about this woman. Maya was lying wide awake in bed with Nick. She wasn’t sure if he was asleep or awake.

“You alright, Maya?”

So, he IS awake.

“… Honestly?”

“Of course.”

“No.”

“What’s the matter?”

Maya flipped the lamp on.

“What do you mean? You could have been killed, one of the elders is plotting against me, my mother is dead, I’m trying my best to fulfill my duties, and I might have to do that by leaving the man I love!”

It all spewed out of her. She didn’t even think before speaking. Nick looked at her with understanding. Once again, Maya couldn’t hold back the tears. Nick took her into his arms. He rubbed her back with his left hand.

“Oh, Maya… all of these problems will be resolved. I’ll be there every step of the way. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Th-thanks, Nick…”

“You’re not going to lose your position, and you will not only fulfill your duties, but exceed everyone’s expectations as well.”

“You… you really th-think so?”

“I know so.”

Maya turned the lamp off. Then, she lied there in Nick’s arms for the rest of the night. He kissed her a few times, letting her know he was there. She slowly closed her eyes and fell asleep.

* * *

“Maya… Maya, it’s time to wake up.”

Nick was shaking Maya lightly.

“Mmm…?”

“It’s time to get up.”

“Five more minutes, Nick.”

“Ugh.”

Nick thought of a way to wake her up. He leaned in and drew her into a seemingly endless kiss. He then proceeded to kiss her neck. When he got to that point, her eyes snapped open. Her breathing was heavy.

“Nick… what are you doing?”

“Waking you up… well… maybe I’m waking myself up a little, too.”

“Whatever you’re doing, I actually like it.”

“Mmhmm… I thought you might.”

“So, Nick, why do I have to wake up?”

“Oh, yes. I almost forgot. Edgeworth invited us to the beach. You in?”

“I’m way in.”

So, they got up and ready. Maya wore her purple bikini, Nick his blue striped swim trunks. He thought Maya looked so cute in her bikini. They headed to the beach. Nick called Edgeworth on his cell phone.

“Yes, Wright?”

“Edgeworth! We’re here. Are you guys almost here?”

“We just pulled into the parking lot.”

“Okay!”

Edgeworth, Franziska von Karma, and Detective Gumshoe walked up to Maya and Nick. Maya really seemed to enjoy herself. For this, Nick was relieved. However, he couldn’t help but wonder who this mystery woman was. He was going to get to the bottom of this no matter what it took.

At the beach, Edgeworth’s cell phone rang.

“Edgeworth speaking… what? … Right now? … Who? … Okay, I shall be there in about an hour. I’m busy right now… okay, good bye.”

He hung up.

“Who was that?” Nick asked.

“They captured a suspect for the murder. Her name is Diane Mick. Apparently, she was at the restaurant last night. I already examined the crime scene, and I have to attend a police briefing.”

“The prosecutor attends the briefing?”

“Yes. I have to ready my witness list.”

“Ah, I see.”

“My hypothesis is Tori Vick will take this case.”

“What makes you think that?”

“You know just how much she loves ‘not guilty’ verdicts. After that trial, she’ll want to redeem herself.”

“I hope after this trial, she’ll change her ways.”

“Everybody feels the same way, Wright. I think right now, you should focus on something more important… or rather someone.”

He motioned towards Maya, who was playing with Gumshoe in the water. They were swimming to a buoy and swimming back in a race.

“She means a lot to you, doesn’t she, Wright?”

“You have no idea, Edgeworth. I love her more than anything.”

“She needs you now more than ever. I don’t spend a lot of time with her, and I can tell. After that whole ordeal with Dahlia and Iris Hawthorne, I’m sure she’s feeling pretty alone right now. After all, her mother was killed. Give her the love she needs, Wright.”

“This is the same thing I’ve been hearing, Edgeworth. Trust me, I will. This coming from a man who isn’t dating?”

“Urk! Well… erm… I-I…”

“Edgeworth?”

Edgeworth at a loss for words and stuttering? This was a first.

“W-well, let’s say I’m not completely opposed to the idea.”

All of a sudden, Edgeworth shouted in pain. Franziska had whipped him.

“Miles Edgeworth! I need to have a word with you in private. Phoenix Wright, if you will.”

“Okay.”

Nick stood up and ran towards the water for Maya. She swam towards him, and when she arrived at the shallow part, she ran for him. He picked her up and spun her around in his arms. She kissed his cheek.

“I love you, Nick…”

“I love you, too, Maya…”

Gumshoe cleared his throat.

“Hate to break up this love fest, pal, but I think another one just rolled into town.”

“What do you mean?”

Gumshoe motioned towards Edgeworth and Franziska. They were kissing. Maya was beaming. Nick chuckled to himself. So his suspicions were correct. Miles Edgeworth was smitten for Franziska von Karma. They didn’t interrupt the two of them. Nick and Maya were lying on the shore with their feet in the water. They held onto each other and stayed in that position for the remainder of the time they were there.

* * *

“B-but, I didn’t do it!” a woman wailed in the interrogation room.

“Sure you didn’t,” a sarcastic officer said, cocking his head, “Ms. Mick, you were at the restaurant at the time of the murder, you were covered in the victim’s blood, and you had access to a knife. Just admit it.”

“I won’t admit to something I didn’t do!”

Diane Mick was crying at this point. She was hungry, tired, and scared. The officer sighed.

“Alright. Officer James, take her back to her cell.”

“I can’t do that. There’s a defense attorney here to see her.”

“A defense attorney? Fine.”

She was escorted into another room in which a woman sat behind the other side of the glass.

“Who are you?”

“My name is Tori Vick. I request to be your defense attorney. It is my belief I can get you a full acquittal and nothing less.”

“I’ve heard of you.”

“Let me hear your version of events first.”

“I heard a scream and walked into the woman’s bathroom. Even though it was a man’s voice, I went into the ladies room.”

“Why?”

“The ladies room has an echo whereas the men’s room does not. Anyway, I walk in, and at first, I saw blood. Then, I saw a body. I screamed and passed out. When I woke up, the police were swarming around me. Now, here I am.”

“… Ms. Mick… I’ll take your case.”

“Really? You will?”

“I’ll get you the ‘not guilty’ verdict you deserve.”

“You seem confident.”

“I have faith in my abilities. It is my belief you are telling the truth.”

“Okay. Thank you, Ms. Vick.”

“When is the trial?”

“Tomorrow.”

“… Zero prep time. Okay. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Thanks again, Ms. Vick.”

* * *

Nick sat on the couch, watching the evening news with Maya. They were reporting the murder. The trial was the next day, and Ms. Vick would be the defense attorney.

“Nick… do you think Ms. Mick is really Mallory Fey?”

“I’m not sure, Maya. I haven’t heard her version of events. She very well could be.”

“Are you testifying tomorrow?”

“Probably. I’ve been testifying quite a bit lately.”

“I’ll come with you. It’s important.”

“Well, yeah. It possibly deals with your family.”

Maya gave him a kiss. She didn’t like the fact her boyfriend has been in danger lately. Last time, it was because he was buying her a necklace. This time, it might have been because of her position in her society.

“It’s my fault…”

“None of this is your fault, Maya.”

“But, because of me, you’re always in danger. Just like last time when you were shot.”

“That wasn’t because of you. That was my choice.”

“This time, it’s because of my family.”

“This was a duty which was thrust upon you at an early age.”

“Nngh… I still feel responsible.”

“Don’t, Maya. Please… for me?”

“… Anything for you.”

It was raining on the day of the trial. A brief recess was called after the detective in charge gave his synopsis of the events that occurred on that faithful night.

“Okay, Wright. It’s prepping time.”

“You don’t need to prep me, Edgeworth. I’m going in that courtroom to testify about what I saw. No prepping is necessary.”

“… Very well.”

“Are you winning or losing?”

“So far, the judge is favoring the prosecution, as expected.”

“Ms. Vick is getting her butt kicked, then?”

“I wouldn’t say it’s getting kicked. She just doesn’t quite have the upper-hand at the moment.”

Just then, Maya came running up to Nick.

“Everything is going to be okay, right, Nick?”

“Yes, Maya. I’ll just testify, and we’ll see how it goes.”

“Nngh… I just wish there was something I could do… I know!”

“What?”

“I could find a clue! Do some research!”

“Are you sure, Maya?”

“Yes! I can do it, Nick! Trust me.”

“I do. Okay.”

Then, the bailiff spoke.

“Mr. Edgeworth! Your presence is requested in the courtroom. Same goes for you, Mr. Wright!”

“It’s time,” Edgeworth ominously stated.

* * *

“The prosecution calls Mr. Phoenix Wright!”

“Him again?!” the judge questioned.

“Yes. Somehow, he finds himself in many sticky situations. It could have been a coincidence… or it might not have been.”

“I’m confused.”

“That isn’t a first, Your Honor. Phoenix Wright! Please take the stand.”

Nick walked up to the witness stand.

“Ah, nice to see you again, Your Honor. Although, our meeting is under very unfortunate circumstances.”

“Yes, it most certainly is.”

“Your name and occupation once again, witness,” Edgeworth cut in.

“Phoenix Wright, defense attorney.”

“Now, Mr. Wright. You were in the Questo è La Vita at the time of the murder, correct?”

“Yes, I was.”

“Very well,” the judge sighed, “Please testify about the events you witnessed, Mr. Wright.”

“Yes, Your Honor. I was having dinner with my girlfriend. Then, two people in a few booths away from us were having a heated argument. They were negotiating. The woman was masked. Then, they went into the ladies room. The woman told the victim her name. Then, the victim let out a scream and fell to the ground.”

“Ms. Vick, you may begin your cross-examination.”

“Mr. Wright…”

“… Yes, Ms. Vick?”

She didn’t say anything. Nick gave a puzzled look. The judge then spoke.

“Ms. Vick, do you have a question?”

“Oh? Oh! Sorry, Your Honor. Just kind of spaced out for a moment there. Mr. Wright, what were the victim, Jerry Creed, and the other person arguing about?”

“They were arguing over a certain job which the woman wanted the victim to do for her.”

“What was this job?”

“It was… an assassination.”

“An assassination?!” the judge shouted. The court was in complete chaos.

“ORDEEEEEER!” the judge yelled, slamming his gavel, “Anyone who interrupts this proceeding will be held in contempt!”

“Who was to be assassinated?” Ms. Vick further questioned.

“I’m sorry, but I didn’t hear any names.”

“How did you know the masked individual was a woman?”

“She was keeping her voice deep intentionally. Also, she dragged him into the ladies room. Then, when she said her name, she used her normal voice.”

“What was the name she provided?”

“Mallory Fey.”

“It was not the defendant’s name?”

“It was not.”

“Thank you, Mr. Wright.”

“Just a minute, Mr. Wright,” the judge interrupted.

“Yes, Your Honor?”

“Did you just say ‘Mallory Fey’? Fey as in your assistant Maya Fey?”

“Well, not the same person, but the same family.”

The people in the courtroom were chatting again. The judge slammed his gavel. Even Edgeworth looked shocked.

“Wright! What is this?! Your Honor, I request another brief recess to discuss this turn of events!”

“Yes, I need a bit of time to absorb this information as well. Only five minutes, though! Mr. Edgeworth, you are not to prep the witness at all.”

“That was never my intention, Your Honor.”

“This court is in a five minute recess!”

He slammed his gavel. Nick and Edgeworth went into the prosecution lobby.

“Wright, who is Mallory Fey?!”

“I don’t know, Edgeworth. Even Maya hasn’t heard of her.”

“Ugh. Do you think the person could have lied about their name to the victim?”

“I don’t think so. How would they know about the Fey family unless they were somehow connected to it? My guess is it’s the other way around.”

“What do you mean?”

“If you think about it, the person would be connected to the Fey family. So, their real name is Mallory Fey while they have been living under a pseudonym.”

“… You have a valid point, Wright. Excellent. Do you think the defendant committed the crime?”

“… Honestly, Edgeworth, I don’t believe so.”

“Why not?”

“I can just tell by the look in her eyes. I wonder…”

“What?”

“I wonder if Mystic Marsha Fey is behind this.”

“Marsha Fey?”

“It is my belief as well as Mia’s and Maya’s that Marsha Fey wants the position of Master of Kurain for herself.”

“Hmm… that is certainly a possibility. Well, it’s time to go back into court.”

“Okay, Edgeworth.”

“But, I have one more question, Wright.”

“What is that, Edgeworth?”

“You said something interesting in court. You said you didn’t hear any names about the assassination request.”

“That’s true.”

“Do you have any idea who might’ve been requested, though?”

“… Yes.”

“Who?”

“… Two people. A man and a woman. The woman goes by the name of Maya Fey, the man by the name of Phoenix Wright.”

“W-w-w-whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?! You two?! Why?!”

"Shh! Keep it down, Edgeworth."

"Sorry... but, I have to know. Why?!"

“Like I said, it all goes to Maya’s position. The family threw quite a heavy burden onto her back ever since she was born. I know Mystic Marsha Fey wants the position all for herself. She is a very sly and clever woman.”

“This is insanity… okay. Well, we should head in.”

“Yes. Get ready, Edgeworth.”

“You’re telling me to get ready? It’s you who should be ready.”

“… You’re right. Let’s go.”

That woman, Mallory Fey, is hiding a dark secret. That secret was hurting the woman he loved most. He was going to drive that secret out and beat it down into the ground.

“This court is back in session for the trial of Diane Mick. A new piece of information has come into light. Have the prosecution and defense figured out where to go from here?”

“Yes, we have, Your Honor,” Edgeworth answered.

“The defense still asserts the defendant is not responsible for this crime. A different name was told to the victim. It was not Diane Mick.”

“No one has heard of a Mallory Fey. As far as we know, there are no files on her.”

“So, in front of the victim, the murderer lied about their name.”

“I disagree, Ms. Vick. They would have to know all about the Fey family to do so. It is the prosecution’s belief that it was the other way around. The pseudonym wasn’t Mallory Fey, but rather Mallory Fey was the real name. The pseudonym is who we know the killer as at the moment.”

“What?!”

Nick spaced out. When he did, he saw an ankle. He noticed a tattoo on it. The tattoo was of a magatama. He looked up to see who the owner was. His heart skipped a beat. Then, he took out his phone and took a picture of the ankle sneakily. Also, he took a picture of who it was. The judge noticed Nick.

“Mr. Wright! You know very well that photography is not allowed in this courtroom.”

“I apologize, Your Honor, but this was necessary.”

“How was it necessary?”

“This is a vital piece of evidence.”

“E-evidence?!”

“As the witness, I would like to make my own accusation.”

“Certainly. As the witness, you are to testify. Who are you testifying against, Mr. Wright? I thought it was the defendant.”

“Your Honor, at this time, I would like to accuse Tori Vick for the murder of Jerry Creed.”

“WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!”

The courtroom erupted into endless chatter. Tori Vick just stood there, sweating. The judge slammed his gavel.

“The next person to speak will be held in contempt!” the judge roared, “Only those who are officers of the court may speak!”

“Mr. Wright, are you daft?” Ms. Vick finally spoke.

“I assure you, Ms. Vick, I am quite sane.

“What possible evidence could you have to accuse me?!”

“It’s right here, on my cell phone.”

“One of those new-fangled cell phones can take pictures?”

“Erm, yes, Your Honor. I took these two pictures. I would like the court to look at Ms. Vick’s left ankle. If you look, you can see a tiny tattoo of a magatama. A magatama is associated with Kurain channeling. Mallory Fey is a member of a family of spirit mediums.”

“Oh ho! Impressive, Mr. Wright, but not impressive enough. You see, I find spirit channeling to be a very interesting subject. I studied Kurain channeling. It inspired me to get this tattoo.”

“Ms. Vick, you also don’t have an alibi. At the time of the murder, I recognized the voice of the murderer. It belonged to you, Ms. Vick.”

“Objection! That is not evidence.”

“You cannot contradict that testimony, Ms. Vick. No matter how hard you try, there is no evidence to contradict it.”

“The evidence is circumstantial, Your Honor. I move to strike.”

“Granted.”

“What?! Your Honor, you can’t disregard my testimony.”

“Mr. Wright, the evidence you presented is completely circumstantial. I cannot accept this.”

How could this happen?! He believed he was right. Ms. Vick was nervous when he first accused her. She was involved with spirit channeling, but not because she studied it. Just then, Nick’s heart took a leap.

“HOLD IT!”

Everyone looked stunned. Maya Fey charged into the courtroom holding a manila folder.

“Your Honor, if it pleases the court, I would like to submit evidence.”

“More evidence?!”

“Yes, Your Honor. During this time, I did some research. I made a call to Kurain Village. Some papers were found inside the incinerator, but they weren’t fully burned.”

“What did you find?”

“Mallory Fey left the village years ago. She decided to go into the business of law. She was also the daughter of Mystic Marsha Fey. Apparently, she changed her name, but the name was burnt off.”

Once again, the courtroom was in complete shock.

“Well, Ms. Vick? How about it?”

“… Can anyone vouch for the authenticity of these documents?”

“Yes,” Maya chimed in, “All of the elders checked it and confirmed it was genuine.”

“You believe that I am this Mallory Fey?”

“I’d say so.”

“It doesn’t say her pseudonym is ‘Tori Vick’, does it? Actually, the pseudonym was burnt off. I’m sorry, but that is not definitive.”

“What do you say, Your Honor?” Nick questioned. He didn’t answer at first. Then, he made his decision.

“I regret to say Ms. Vick is correct. This is not concrete proof.”

“What? Nooooooooo!”

“Ms. Fey, I commend you for all of your hard work, but this is not definitive.”

Is it really over? Can they really do no more? After Maya went through all the trouble to do the research, the judge was going to dismiss it all. Just then, they heard a small yell from outside the courtroom.

“Mystic Tori! Mystic Tori!”

Then, Mystic Marsha Fey burst into the courtroom.

“Excuse me, Your Honor, but I need to have a word with Mystic Tori Vick.”

Nick gave a smirk. Maya covered her grin with her hand. Edgeworth and the judge looked completely baffled.

“E-excuse me?” the judge asked, “MYSTIC Tori Vick?”

“Ah…!” Ms. Vick cried out.

“Yes, Your Honor. Is there something wrong with that?”

“That is all, Your Honor,” Nick cut in.

“I still don’t understand.”

“It’s quite simple. Just like judges and attorneys, spirit mediums have titles as well. The title for a spirit medium is ‘Mystic’. It seems Ms. Vick is a spirit medium. She is the one who murdered Jerry Creed.”

“Nnnnnnnnggggggggh......... MOTHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

“Yes. Mystic Marsha Fey forced Ms. ‘Vick’ to request the assassination. The assassination was for Maya Fey and me. Mystic Marsha Fey wanted the position as Master of Kurain.”

“That’s ridiculous,” Mystic Marsha scoffed.

“Mother… you told me the position would go to me!”

“Anyway, the position as Master wields much influence. By ‘offering’ this position, Mystic Marsha Fey was able to get Ms. ‘Vick’ to do her bidding.”

“Ha…!” Mystic Marsha mocked, “Well done, Mr. Attorney. But, it doesn’t matter. You see, I didn’t order her to kill that assassin.”

“True, but you DID order her to pay an assassin to kill Maya and me. That’s attempted murder, Ms. Fey.”

“… A… A… ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGH!”

Mystic Marsha pulled her hair. Then, she was taken into custody along with her daughter. Before Mallory Fey was taken out of the courtroom, Nick spoke to her.

“Now you understand.”

“What do I now understand?”

“It’s not all about the ‘not guilty’ verdict.”

“What?!”

“Your client will get a verdict of ‘not guilty’, but you still lost in the end.”

She said nothing and was taken away.

“This trial has taught us many lessons. Now, it is time to bring it to an end. The court declares Ms. Diane Mick not guilty. That is all. This court is adjourned.”

The judge slammed his gavel. They exited the courtroom. When they got into the prosecutor’s lobby, Nick put his arms around Maya’s waist.

“Maya, thank you. We couldn’t have caught them without you.”

“It’s my pleasure, Nick. You are my guilty pleasure.”

She gave a sly smile and they went into a long passionate kiss. Finally, Edgeworth spoke up.

“Why must I always witness the two of you kissing passionately?!”

They broke.

“You’re one to talk, Edgeworth,” Nick shot back, “With the way you were kissing Franziska yesterday.”

He blushed. Nick and Maya laughed.

“I still can’t believe Ms. Vick was really Mallory Fey,” Maya said sadly.

“Don’t worry, Maya. They won’t be able to hurt you anymore.”

“Yeah… thank you, Nick.”

“No problem. Shall we be off?”

“Yeah… we need to celebrate.”

“The usual burger joint?”

“You know it.”

“Come with us, Edgeworth.”

“If you insist.”

“Invite Franziska, too. We can double date.”

Nick winked. Edgeworth blushed again.

“Oh fine.”

Nick and Maya went back to the office. They were very tired from the events that took place that day. Right when they arrived, they both changed into their pajamas. When Maya went into Nick’s room, he was reaching for something under the bed.

“Nick, what are you doing?”

“I dropped a quarter. It rolled under the bed and hit this book.”

“A book?”

He pulled out a black book end examined the front cover.

“Well, not a book, per se. It’s a diary.”

He opened up to the inside of the front cover.

“It was Mia’s…”

“My sis wrote in that diary?!”

“Apparently. Want to hear a little of what she wrote?”

“I do, actually.”

“Okay. Here’s an entry: Today, magic happened. I found the man I want to spend the rest of my life with. I shared my first kiss with my boyfriend. He’ll never turn his back on me and will always be there to guide me. To support me. To care for me. He may be a little passionate about his coffee addiction, but I know he puts me in the highest regard. There’s somebody for everybody. You just have to look and have the will to find your special someone. I love you, Diego Armando.”

“Aww, that’s so sweet! I can’t believe my sis wrote something that romantic. It was beautiful, don’t you think?”

“Yeah. She was really in love with him.”

“Yeah, I remember her talking about him.”

“I found my special someone as well.”

“I think I have, too.”

Maya squeezed Nick’s hand. He gave her a kiss.

“Well, I think it’s time to hit the sack, Maya. We can look at this more tomorrow.”

“Okay. Good night, Nick.”

“Good night, Maya.”

They gripped onto each other and fell asleep.

* * *

Nick woke up and yawned. He stretched. He flung his arm onto Maya’s spot. It was empty. He then sat up.

Where could she be?

Nick walked into the kitchen, where he found Maya reading Mia’s diary. A tissue box was next to her. She was crying.

“Maya…”

She turned to look at him. A tissue was being clutched in her left hand.

“G-good morning, Nick…”

“Maya, why are you reading that?”

“It was my sister’s. I still love her even though s-she’s… well, you know. This is about when Mr. Armando was poisoned. I knew she was upset, but I guess I never knew just how upset she was. Nick, she was absolutely heartbroken! I wasn’t there for her!”

“It’s okay, Maya. That wasn’t your fault.”

“No, but i-i-it was my fault that I didn’t console her enough.”

“Don’t worry. She knew you loved her. She held you in high regards.”

“But, did she know, Nick? Did she know I was there if she needed to talk to me?”

“Of course she did. She always talked to you. When you two talked, what did you talk about?”

“We talked about everything. The topics varied. We talked about spirit channeling, our parents, how our days were, boys… there was always a topic.”

“You see? She trusted you if you guys talked about everything. I know she knew.”

“Thanks, Nick.”

“Anytime, Maya.”

Nick hugged her.

“Well, we have to go to Kurain today. I have to replace Mystic Marsha in the Court of Kurain. Plus, Pearly is coming to visit.”

“Okay. I guess we should get ready then.”

“I call going in the shower first!”

“Okay, fine.”

She ran off to the bathroom. Nick walked over to where she was sitting and looked inside the diary. The ink was a little hard to read due to dried tears. Those definitely weren’t Maya’s. It appeared Mia was crying when she wrote the entry.

Today, my heart has been shattered, and my hope has been crushed. A demon has made its presence on this Earth. She has devised some of the most evil plots I have ever seen in my life. She even went so far as to poison my Diego. The melancholy has invaded my soul on this day. I weep, but it is not enough to satisfy me. I cannot just sit around and grieve. I will make it my goal in life to make sure this woman is behind bars. She wraps every man around her little finger the minute she walks into the room. Everyone sees her as an angel, but they don’t know the truth. They don’t have a clue about the darkness this woman has driven into me. She may have everyone else fooled, but she cannot pull wool over my eyes. I know who and what she is. This façade can only hurt people. It cannot help anyone except her. I have to show everyone the true nature of this woman who goes by the name of Dahlia Hawthorne.

Nick quivered after he finished. He felt so bad for Mia. She sounded like she went through a terrible time. He then heard Maya turn off the shower. She was singing.

“In my life, there is something I learned,
The love verdict can’t be overturned,
In this love, you can’t make an appeal,
You just have to accept that it’s real.”

So, Nick and Maya were both shower singers. He smiled.

I am the luckiest man on the face of the Earth.

Okay, I know this chapter isn't nearly as good as the last one. Personally, the last chapter was one of my favorites out of the whole fanfic. But, this is important in understanding Mia's views on love. Yes, that becomes part of the story, too.