Darkling: (What should I do? If I refuse to allow JPop to explain, then his witness's testimony will be stricken from the record, his case will fall apart and he'll most likely face charges. Whatever prosecutor the court brings in to continue the case will be unprepared and lacking a key witness. Mr Anastas will most likely go free...)

Darkling looks sideways for a moment, at Kana's hopeful expression.

Darkling: (It seems like the easiest thing to do... but is it the right thing to do? Mr Anastas will be off the hook, but his innocence won't have been proven beyond question. People will say he 'got off easy', behind his back, for the remainder of his life...)

Kana bites her lip, looking worried at the thought.

Darkling: (And what's more... justice will not have been served.)

He looks at Kana apologetically. Still biting her lip, she nods slowly, once.

Darkling: (smiling gently) (Thank you, Kana.) Your Honour, the defence will allow Prosecutor JPop to explain his actions to the court.

*The Judge's gavel hits its mark before the jury can even react to Darkling's answer. Eyebrows are raised in every seat of the room; JPop's eyebrows being the most stretched. Clearly no one thought Darkling would follow this path.*

JPop: Darkling...

*JPop quickly composes himself, and his facial expression returns to a standard poker face.*

Judge: Now, Prosecutor JPop, you may give your explanation to the court.

JPop: Yes, Your Honor. As many of you have observed, Detective Gumshoe did indeed mention that the witness for the crime was male. Attorney Darkling brought this up after Ms. Kashima had testified as well. I would like to present an interesting fact to this court.

Judge: And that is?

Darkling: (I hope this wasn't a mis--)

JPop: There was another witness for the crime.

Darkling: (--take...)

---

Music: Apollo Justice: Suspense

---

*Darkling's face goes pale. Kana winces in pain as her lip starts to bleed. She reaches into her bag and takes out a tissue, evading Darkling's eyes. Meanwhile, the crowd is in an uproar.*

"You were hiding this all along?! You should be ashamed of yourself for trying to pull this off!"

"Why did the Defense Attorney even think of listening to this jerk? He's really dug himself into a pitch black hole now!"

"Arrest him! Throw him into the Detention Center without bail!"

*The Judge's gavel seemingly has no effect on the agitated crowd. JPop simply waits patiently, looking at Darkling's regret-filled eyes.*

Judge: Order! Order!! ORDER!!! Any person who is unwilling to be silent at this time will be held in contempt of this court and arrested!

*Several people leave the courtroom voluntarily and clearly upset, while the others begin to quiet down with disgruntled looks on their faces. Darkling's eyes slowly shift towards his feet, wishing he could just walk away with the others.

Judge: Prosecutor JPop, who is this other witness of yours?

JPop: He goes by the name of Jovan Belikov, Your Honor. He is a foreign exchange student at the University.

Judge: I see. No doubt you wish to have Mr. Belikov testify to the--

Darkling: (pigmentation returning) Objection! Your Honor, this does not explain why Mr. JPop had an obviously lying witness testify in the first place! This Belikov character could be another rigged witness set up by the Prosecution to place blame on my client!

JPop: Objection! I intend to call the second witness of the crime for testimony for an entirely different reason! You consistently claim that I've somehow "rigged" my witnesses up, yet you have no solid proof that I have done anything of the sort! You have no proof because I haven't altered any of their testimonies at all!

Darkling: Detective Gumshoe testified several minutes ago that he tried to bring you his report about the fingerprints found on the evidence! He saw you speaking to your witness in the Prosecutor's Lobby! You could have been conferring about the testimony that she gave just now!

JPop: For clarity's sake, I was speaking to Mr. Belikov at that time, and not Ms. Kashima. Need I remind you as well that just because Detective Gumshoe saw me speaking to a witness, it doesn't mean I influenced their testimony at all! Damn it all, just let me finish explaining!

*Defeated, Darkling slumps back into his chair.*

JPop: Your Honor, before I finish explaining, I would like you to remove Ms. Kashima from the Witness's Stand and place her somewhere safe. Do not let her into the Prosecutor's Lobby.

Yumi: What are you talking about? Why are you taking me away?

Judge: (ignoring Yumi's outbursts) But... why, Prosecutor JPop?

JPop: It will all become crystal clear once I begin the next part of my explanation, Your Honor. It is incredibly important that it is this way.

Judge: ...Understood.

Yumi: Hey! What do you think you're doing? Get your hands off of me! Stop it!

*Yumi is forcefully dragged away from the Witness's Stand as she fruitlessly fights against the bailiff. Her voice slowly fades off into the background, and JPop begins his explanation.*

---

Music: Apollo Justice: Trance Logic

---

JPop: Darkling, I don't know why you're so shattered about the fact that there was a second witness. You saw as well as I did how flimsy Ms. Kashima's testimony was just now. I want to tell you right now that Mr. Belikov's testimony has the same level of flimsiness, but is also about a different matter that happened during the crime.

Darkling: You mean... They could both be lying?

JPop: That's right.

Darkling: Then why did you let her testify?

JPop: It was the only way I could get her to talk. Unlike Mr. Belikov, she did not wish to speak about the murder at all unless it was up on the Witness' Stand. I've kept them separated the entire time they've been here so that they wouldn't be able to influence each other. So you see, Ling, I'm not the one rigging testimonies here. They're perfectly capable of doing that themselves if left to their own devices.

Judge: Prosecutor JPop, what do you mean?

JPop: You'll see quite soon, Your Honor. Originally, it appeared as though Mr. Belikov was the only witness to the crime. He was taken by Detective Gumshoe at the scene of the crime. Ms. Kashima however, wasn't found at the scene of the crime at all. She ended up going to a nearby police station where they transferred her over to where Mr. Belikov was taken.

Darkling: What happened when she got there?

JPop: Detective Gumshoe tells me that they were talking intently with each other--apparently Mr. Belikov had misplaced his wallet and was very upset. The detective then told me that she promised to find his wallet and return it to him. They looked like they knew each other very well, but in questioning, they said they didn't know each other at all. The next day, there was a break in at the Evidence Room.

Darkling: Wait... So are you saying that Mr. Belikov is directly involved in this murder other than his role as a witness?

JPop: At the time, it looked like that very well could have been the answer. But we knew so little at the time, and we didn't want to jump to any conclusions.

Darkling: So who broke into the Evidence Room? Was it Ms. Kashima?

JPop: No, we already checked into that. She had a proper alibi that night, since she stayed at the precinct with Mr. Belikov. Neither of them left the station that day.

Darkling: Why is that?

JPop: They never gave us a reason, so we have no idea.

Darkling: So what was taken from the Evidence Room?

JPop: Absolutely nothing.

Darkling: But doesn't all of this point to the wallet found at the crime scene being missing?

JPop: Yes, that's right, but when we did a check, a full inventory of all pieces of evidence was accounted for. Nothing was missing at all. It didn't even look like anything was touched at all.

Darkling: What does all of this mean?

JPop: I'm not entirely sure myself, but it seems like this case has deeper issues that are being hidden by the murder. I don't know why, but if feels that way.

Judge: This is all very confusing... So you're saying that you kept both witnesses away from each other from that point on because they could have been coordinating what they were going to say today?

JPop: Yes, that's right.

Darkling: ...And now you're trying to expose all of the lies they're telling so that we can dig down to the real issue behind this case?

JPop: Mr. Belikov is in the Prosecutor's Lobby right now. He doesn't have a single idea about what's going on in this room. He also hasn't had a chance to talk to Ms. Kashima about her testimony, so we should be getting a pure testimony from him.

Judge: Well, before we put him on the Witness' Stand, I believe that having a 15 minute break would be prudent. I expect both sides to be ready for Mr. Belikov's testimony...

Darkling: (This is going to be a long day...)

Judge: (banging his gavel) This court will now take a 15 minute recess!

Darkling and Kana stand in the Defendant's Lobby, neither of them really sure what to say.

Kana: So, um... what happens now?

Darkling: Your guess is as good as mine. JPop brings in his new witness and we find out what he saw, I guess.

Kana: Is this getting us 'justice', Dee?

Darkling winces at Kana's barbed words, and Kana winces at the expression on Darkling's face.

Kana and Darkling: Sorry... No, you-- I...

They both pause, looking at each other with shoulders slumped.

Darkling: Go on, Kana.

Kana: I... Somehow, I didn't believe what everyone said. You know, about the courtroom being a battlefield, every point being crucial. It didn't seem realistic, after all. But every time we've held the advantage, something has happened to put us on the back foot again. Turn and turn about. You think you've made a solid case, listing all the facts and evidence, but then... but then the slate gets wiped clean again, just like that. Blank white...

Darkling: (quietly) We're not done for quite yet, Kana.

Kana: I... I know.

She looks up at him, summoning a strained smile from somewhere.

Kana: It would just be nice if it wasn't all so... dramatic, you know? If things stayed positive, if only for a while...

Darkling: (with grim amusement) It would be nice, yes... but it wouldn't be nearly as much fun.

Kana blinks.

Kana: Dee?

Darkling: We're going to do our best, Kana. Even if everything else changes around us, that one thing will stay constant. That's all we can do, right?

Kana: (smiling) Right.

*A knock is heard on the door moments before Detective Gumshoe enters with a grin on his face.*

Gumshoe: Hey pal, boy do I have news for you!

Darking: It's good seeing you again, Detective Gumshoe. Have you been listening to what's been going on during the trial?

Gumshoe: Sorry, but I've been out of the courthouse until just recently. How's the trial going? Going great, right?

Kana: ...It's complicated.

Darkling: Yeah...

Gumshoe: (frowning) I take it that Mr. JPop brought out Mr. Belikov.

Darkling: Actually, no he didn't. He brought out Ms. Kashima instead.

Gumshoe: Wha--? She testified? I didn't think she was going to talk at all. She looks innocent enough, but she's solid as a rock underneath.

Darkling: Why didn't you tell us that there were two witnesses to the crime?

*Wounded, Gumshoe recoils and scratches his head trying to stall for time.*

Darkling: We'd like an answer some time soon, Detective.

Gumshoe: I'm sorry, pal... I just didn't tell you because I didn't think she was going to testify today. I was actually going to bring her up when I came in, but I guess you know already.

Kana: Earlier you said that you had good news for us, right? What is it?

Gumshoe: Well, I only said that I had news for you, but since you know the bad stuff already, I guess it balances out to just good news! *grins* Remember the pieces of evidence that I told you I would be looking into?

Kana: Um... I think...? Dee, do you remember?

*She turns to Darkling, who is deep in thought with his eyes closed.*

Kana: (tapping Darkling on the shoulder) Dee?



Gumshoe: Sorry, pal. We're still doing tests on everything--trying to track down any fingerprint we can, y'know? We're still looking into analyzing both knives and the wallet. When news hits, I'll be sure to report them to the court, alright?



*Darkling's eyes snap open and he begins to settle back into the surroundings. Both Gumshoe and Kana appear utterly confused.*

Darkling: Did you finish scanning the knives and the wallet in the Court Record?

Gumshoe: I... Uh, yeah. Yeah, pal.

Darkling: What's wrong? Why the odd looks?

Kana: Your eyes... They were clouded over with some sort of white mist. What happened to you?

Darkling: Huh? I was just thinking back to Detective Gumshoe's testimony. When I close my eyes, it's easier to remember. *rubbing his eyes* ...Is the white stuff still there?

Gumshoe: No, it's not. But that's really weird. You should probably get your eyes checked or something.

Darkling: (shrugging) I guess so... *pauses* But right now we have things to talk about. What did you find out about the knives and wallet?

Gumshoe: (brightly grinning) You're going to love this! Not only did we find out more information about the serrated knife, but we also found out who the wallet belongs to!

Darkling: What about the serrated knife? What did you find out?

Gumshoe: Michael Anastas' fingerprints are not on the serrated knife!

Kana: Wait, so what does that mean?

Gumshoe: I'm not quite sure, but at this point you guys can really bring up a good point about it. Why aren't his fingerprints on this knife if he is the murderer?

Darkling: Could he have wiped his fingerprints off?

Gumshoe: Unlikely, pal. That would have wiped off the other prints as well. The others came out crystal clear, so unless he can see fingerprints without any equipment, that's a no-go!

Kana: That's great news! This really creates some doubt about what happened that day!

Darkling: What about the missing groove on the knife? Did you find anything about it?

Gumshoe: Sorry, but we didn't find it anywhere on the crime scene. It wasn't in Mr. Ito's body either, so it must be somewhere else. We don't even know when it was broken.

Darkling: I've been meaning to ask you something, Detective.

Gumshoe: What is it?

Darkling: When you took Ms. Kashima and Mr. Belikov into questioning about the murder, did you get their fingerprints?

Gumshoe: Sorry pal, but we didn't get to snag their fingerprints that night. We ran out of ink supplies.

Kana: But... how about today? Don't you guys resupply your inventory?

Gumshoe: Good point! I'll be sure to check in on getting both of their fingerprints.

Darkling: Finally, you mentioned something about knowing who the owner of the wallet found at the crime scene is...

Gumshoe: Takamichi Todo...? Does that ring a bell for any of you? We tried finding him, but he's missing. I'm not sure I remember reading anything about this guy in the Court Record, but we managed to match his fingerprints. We have an old set from a year or so ago when he gave a transplant or someth--

Darkling: Todo?

He looks at Kana, who is staring at Gumshoe, wide-eyed.

Kana: Bro?

Gumshoe: Um, no, Miss Kana. I'm Gumshoe. Dick Gumshoe.

Darkling: I think she means that this... 'Takamichi', did you say? She means that Takamichi Todo is her... her brother...

Kana: (bowing her head) That's right. I haven't seen him in a long time, though...

Darkling: Why would his wallet be at the crime scene, Kana? Does he go to Mr Anastas's university?

Unable to respond, Kana just shrinks into herself, her shoulders hunching up.

Kana: (whispering to herself) Bro... and Yumi-san...

Darkling: Detective, could you give us a moment, please?

Gumshoe: (kindly) Sure, pal. Don't take too long, though. It sounds like the recess is almost over.

Gumshoe leaves the Defendant's Lobby, closing the door behind him.

Darkling: (I need answers. But Gumshoe's right - court is about to start up again. Getting all of the details is going to have to wait. It seems I never get to go into these situations knowing the whole story...)

Darkling looks at Kana, who is still standing there, hugging her arms. He reaches out and pats her shoulder reassuringly.

Darkling: (Let's hope that this next session in court goes quickly... and smoothly, if possible. Heck, stranger things have happened, haven't they?)

Kana: (whispering to herself) Bro... You should have stayed away...

Darkling: Kana?

*Kana flinches as she suddenly realizes that Darkling is right next to her with worried eyes. She blinks several times and tries to put a smile on.*

Darkling: Are you okay? You've been spacing out a lot ever since Ms. Kashima came up as a witness.

Kana: Yeah, I'm alright Dee... It's just a surprise, you know? My past is starting to catch up to the present. ...And my Bro...

*Kana's smile slowly crumbles as her eyes begin to well up with tears. She wraps her arms around Darkling and embraces him. Surprised, Darkling looks down at Kana, who has her eyes closed.*

Darkling: I'm sorry about your brother, Kana. I'm sure the police are looking for him right now. But... What do you mean that your past is catching up to the present? I don't mean to pry, but do you want to talk about it?

*Kana remains silent as time passes by. Darkling looks down again wanting a glimpse of her eyes, but she doesn't look up.*

Darkling: I'm sorry, Kana. I shouldn't have asked. It's your personal life anyw--

*Darkling's jacket gets tighter as Kana's hands grip it.*

Kana: Dee, please don't apologize. It's not your fault. It's just that... I can't tell you everything I know right now. I just can't help but feel like I'm connected to this case, Dee. I know you must be confused right now, but I just can't say it.

Darkling: Alright... I understand.

*Darkling hears a small giggle come from his jacket.*

Kana: Silly Dee... No, you don't.

Darkling: Kana?

*Darkling looks down again to see Kana gazing at him with a faint smile. She slowly pushes herself away from him weakly.*

Kana: I can read your thoughts, remember?

Darkling: But... I wasn't really thinking about anything at that moment. At least, I don't think so...

Kana: (pausing) I still haven't explained how I can do it, have I?

Darkling: (shaking his head) No, you haven't. But I do remember that you said it only works on certain people.

*Blushing slightly, Kana turns her eyes to the couch behind Darkling. Her eyes explore the room trying their best not to focus on Darkling.*

Kana: Yeah, that's right.

Darkling: How many?

Kana: (suddenly) --Huh?

Darkling: How many people are you able to read?

Kana: Um...

*Hoping Darkling would drop the question if her eyes were wandering, Kana realizes he has no intention of doing so. Time passes.*

Kana: ...Two.

Darkling: Two?

Kana: Yeah...

Darkling: Ah...

Kana: Hm.

Darkling: ...Well.

*Both Kana and Darkling begin to shift around uncomfortably. Kana curls her hair lightly with her finger as Darkling rubs his shoulder.*

Darkling: (Well... I know I'm one of the two... But who's the other one? What kind of qualities do the people need to have?)

*Darkling fidgets and shifts his weight onto his other leg, but stays silent.. Kana breaks the ice.*

Kana: I have to look into their eyes.

Darkling: In order to read them?

Kana: Yeah, that's right. If I can't see their eyes, then I can't do it. Have you noticed it?

Darkling: You looking into my eyes?

Kana: Yeah.

Darkling: Erm... A few times, I suppose. But a few seconds ago, you said that you could read my thoughts... and I wasn't really thinking about anything. We also weren't looking at each other.

Kana: ...I have a second ability that works like the first. As long as I'm in contact with one of the people I can read--as in physical contact--I can read deeper. It can be a simple touch of the hand if I just want information on the surface, or it can be an embrace for a deeper look.

Darkling: Deeper? What do you mean?

Kana: I can read the values and beliefs that lie in the core of a person, Dee. I can see the dreams and ambitions that lie inside their heart. I can see their goals and wishes... That's... that's what I was just doing right now. Looking into you... I'm sorry for being selfish like that--I should have told you. It's just that I see so much flowing in you, Dee. It... It feels safe... Like... You're so...

*Kana loses her words as Darkling tries to make heads or tails out of the situation. On one hand, he's not sure what exactly to make of things. Should he be concerned about all this invasion of privacy? But... On the other hand...*

Darkling: (...I don't feel like anything's wrong with it.) It's... it's okay, Kana. I... I don't think I mind it.

*Surprised, Kana looks at Darkling, yielding a warm smile.*

Kana: Dee...

*There is a knock on the door and the bailiff walks through.*

Darkling: Is the trial ready to resume?

Bailiff: Sorry for interrupting, but the Judge says that he is going to add another 10 minutes to the recess.

Kana: Why?

Bailiff: Sorry, but I don't know. It should give you more time to prepare, though.

Darkling: I see. Thank you, bailiff.

*The bailiff nods and exits the room. Outside, Darkling and Kana can hear Gumshoe asking about Prosecutor JPop.*

Darkling: So... Who is the second person you can read?

Kana: (troubled) ...Bro... My brother.

Darkling: He sounds like he's very important to you. Do you think you could tell me about him? Er... Um... Well, you don't have to if you don't want to, Kana. It's just that--

Kana: (smiling at the thought) He is very important to me. He was always there when I needed him, just like my Guardian Angel... He taught me how to appreciate life and to value it. He's the kind of person that would give up anything to see his imouto-chan happy. It all started when we were hiking up in the mountains...

Darkling: You really cherish the memories you have about him, don't you, Kana?

Kana: Yes, I do. He's the reason why I'm still alive, Dee.

Darkling: Huh? What do you mean?

Kana: Well, Mr Anastas has chronic renal insufficiency, right? It's a condition where a person's kidneys don't work properly; they don't filter toxins and waste products out of the blood as efficiently as a healthy person's.

Darkling: Ah, so that's what that means...

Kana: (blinks) You mean you didn't know what Mr Anastas and I were talking about?

Darkling: (slightly embarrassed) Well, I gathered that it was a life-threatening condition, and that it meant Mr Anastas doesn't have long to live. It didn't seem like an appropriate juncture to be raising my hand and asking "so, what is chronic renal insufficiency anyway?".

Kana: (smiles) You're so considerate.

Darkling: (actually blushing now) Um, no... Not really.

Kana's smile becomes slightly enigmatic.

Kana: Say what you like, Dee. Did you forget what I just said about what happens when I embrace people I can read?

Darkling's mouth hangs open.

Darkling: Oh...

Kana giggles.

Kana: Don't worry, Dee. I won't take advantage of what I know. Much.

Darkling: Why doesn't that make me feel any better?

Kana: (smiling) Anyway, I know what Mr Anastas is going through. Up until a few years ago, I also had chronic renal insufficiency. Ever since I was a little girl, I was very unhealthy. I spent months at a time in the hospital, and the only one who was there to look out for me was my Bro... Takamichi Todo.

Darkling: (to himself) The owner of the wallet...

Kana: He always watched out for me. When even our parents were too busy to come visit, he'd come to the hospital after school and talk to me, and bring me books. He defended me from bullies at school a couple of times. We'd ride to school together on his bike. They were sad days - clouded... but also very sweet.

Darkling: I can see why you love him...

Kana's violet eyes open wider as she continues.

Kana: But that wasn't all he did for me. Eventually, a few years ago, my condition worsened. Dialysis and medication couldn't help anymore; my kidneys just weren't doing enough of anything. My... my whole body was beginning to fail, to shut down. I... knew it, somehow. I knew I was dying.

Darkling just watches Kana's face, mesmerised by her story. Kana smiles, her expression bittersweet.

Kana: Bro saved me. There was no chance for me to get a kidney transplant through the usual methods. So Bro... gave me one of his.

Out of Character: Organ donation isn't very common in Japan. Their culture tends to look down on it. However, I'm not sure if our story's set in Japan, so I didn't mention that here.

Darkling gasps.

Darkling: He... he gave you one of his kidneys?

Kana just nods, closing her eyes as a tear slides down her left cheek.

Darkling: Wow...

Kana: So, as you can probably see, Bro's very important to me. I love him.

Darkling: And with good reason. Any sister in your situation would love a brother who--

Kana: No. Not that way.

Kana looks at him for a moment, her expression uncertain, then plunges ahead.

Kana: I... (takes a deep breath) I fell in love with him. And he fell in love with me.

Darkling looks at Kana blankly for a moment. He opens his mouth and tries to speak, but nothing comes out. He frowns. Reaching into his pocket, he takes out a rumpled piece of paper. A list of words is scribbled on it, most of them scratched out. 'Gah', 'bu' and 'gak' are the most recent entries. Darkling examines the list more intently for a few more moments as Kana watches, concerned. Then his expression clears, and he puts the paper away in his pocket before looking at Kana again.

Darkling: (blankly) Wha...?

---

Music: Shingetsutan Tsukihime - Vain

---

Kana: Here... I know I have a photo.

*Kana digs in her bag for a few seconds and brings out a small photo showing a young boy and a younger Kana standing, arms wrapped around each other. In their school uniforms, they really do look like a happy couple. Kana hands him the photo and Darkling looks at it for a few seconds.*

Kana: (smiling to herself while she gazes off to the side) You probably see me in a completely different light now, don't you, Dee? I know this might change everything we have right now... ...I don't know why, but I just felt like...

*Kana pauses before she gazes at Darkling uncertainly.*

Kana: I felt like I had to tell you... Don't ask me why, but I wanted to share a part of myself with you, no matter whether it would be considered good or bad. I know it sounds funny, but sometimes I forget that people can't do what I can. Part of me wanted to tell you, but I just couldn't put it into words. The other part of me wished so much that you could just look into my eyes and find out. Dee, I want you to know... The first time I held your hand, I knew that you weren't a bad person. I didn't even need to embrace you completely; your kindness was right at the surface waiting. Waiting for someone... anyone that would notice and reach out to you.

*Tilting her head to the side slightly, she smiles brightly at Darkling, who is listening intently to her words.*

Kana: Dee, you love and care unconditionally. You probably don't even know that yourself, do you? That's what's so amazing about you, Dee. You would show the same affection and understanding to a complete stranger. The trust you give... I think that it really matches that you're a Defense Attorney. It's an important relationship. You trust that your client is telling the truth and is innocent, while your client trusts that you will do all that is in your power to prove it to others.

*A silence envelopes the room, but it brings no tense feeling. Darkling continues looking at Kana, taking in each and every word that flows out of her. Kana pauses for a while and thinks. Slowly, the silence in the room is replaced with a soft giggle.*

Kana: (touching her temple with her palm) I'm sorry. I've been speaking so long, and letting everything flow out that I've forgotten where I was going with this. I guess I just wanted to share the good qualities I can see in you. ...I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate everything you've done for me. Taking me in as your assistant even though you hardly knew me... Being there for me like today, even though you didn't understand why I was acting that way... The little things you say to cheer me up. Things like that. I cherish moments like this just like I cherish the memories that I had with Bro. ...And just like I consider him very important to me, I feel the same way about you. You're very important to me, Dee. (shaking her head) Nothing will ever change that.

*The silence returns. Kana waits patiently for Darkling to say something... anything at all. Anything to acknowledge that he agrees, or at the very least understands her. Her eyes peer at Darkling's face, but avoid his eyes. The expression is one that is conflicted and in deep thought. His eyes desperately try to lock with hers, but she keeps away.*

Kana: ... (I see... No wonder you're not speaking out loud... Dee, I know that you want me to read you so that it can be easier... You're probably already pouring yourself out... But I can't do that to you anymore. I've only been taking from you, rarely giving anything back. I know you've only been teasing me because you think I might see something you don't want me to... But I... I think that you're right. Part of me thinks about what I'm doing every time we lock our eyes together. Isn't this just like stealing? I take the thoughts and memories from you and I don't change them, but they're private for a reason. Thoughts and dreams should only be shared if that person wishes to. What I'm doing must be nothing more than breaking in and stealing. I'm... I'm not sure if I want... No. I don't want that. I can't even control this power... The second I look into your eyes, I can feel your thoughts flowing into me... And I can't stop it.)

*The silence continues, and Darkling is still trying to form the words he needs. He opens his mouth, ready to say something that could come close to being tangible, but a knock suddenly emanates from the doors.*

Bailiff: Mr. Darkling, the court is resuming in two minutes. You may want to start heading over there.

*As the footsteps begin to fade away, Darkling looks at his watch. Several minutes have already gone by. Darkling looks at Kana, who is also looking at him, but stopping short of his eyes.*

Darkling: (It really has been eight minutes. I can't believe it's gone by that fast. Kana... I know you think that you've been the only one talking... But I hope that you've heard or at least read how I feel. I don't think anything badly about you, Kana... I can't, and I'm sure I never will. I know you think that loving your brother is going to end our relationship, but you're wrong. Sure, it is taboo, but... I... I don't care. You say that I'll always be important to you, and I feel exactly the same way with you. I won't let you go. You're Kana, and I know that once you set your heart to something, it can't be taken away. So even though I may not understand everything, I know that as long as it's important to you, it can't ever be a bad thing. This Takamichi Todo really is a lucky guy...)

*Darkling sighs with relief, radiantly smiling after sharing everything, but Kana in contrast, has a troubled look on her face. He thinks for a moment, confused at her expression, but then realizes.*

Darkling: (I see. You probably haven't heard a single thing, have you? I thought maybe once or twice you might have looked at my eyes, but I guess I was mistaken. Why? Why won't you look into my eyes anymore, Kana?)

Kana: (downcast) Dee?

Darkling: Yeah?

Kana: Do you... Would you ever think I'm a thief because of what I can do?

Darkling: (pauses) ...Huh?

Kana: (shaking her head) It's nothing. I'm just being silly. (giggles)

Darkling: Kana... I don't understand.

Kana: I know, Dee. I guess I'm not so good at explaining, am I?

*Kana pauses, and then turns around, heading for the lobby door. Frowning at his lack of ability to form words, Darkling silently curses himself.*

Kana: Dee, I can't be with you for this part of the trial. I'm sorry for abandoning you like this, but I have to speak with Yumi about Bro... I have to look for him. I'm sorry...

Darkling: It's fine. You shouldn't apologize just because you have something important to do. I... I can understand that at least, can't I?

*Regret creeps up onto Darkling's face as he finishes his last sentence. He winces, and then looks away, downcast.*

Kana: (caught off guard) Y-yeah, Dee... Um... Well... I-I should probably go now...

*The conversation dwindles down, and the tense feeling that was absent before makes its entrance. Opening the door, Kana flashes a smile in his direction. "I'm sorry." She manages to say that before turning and running down the hallway, leaving Darkling alone in the Defendant's Lobby.*

Darkling: Kana...

*Darkling hangs his head unhappily. Cursing himself again, he walks into the hallway, which is empty as well. The fresh footsteps that he heard only seconds before seem like they never happened. Looking down at his hands, he notices that he still has the photo of Kana and her brother. Looking up, Darkling begins to head over to where Yumi is being held, but the bailiff appears before him.*

Bailiff: Mr. Darkling. You will be late along with Mr. JPop if you don't run over to the courtroom right now.

Darkling: ...Right. Alright. I-I'll have to hold on to this for her. I'll return it when I see her again... Yeah. That's what I'll do.

Darkling tugs at his lapels and straightens his tie.

Darkling: (So JPop's running late as well, is he? I wonder what he's been coaching this new witness to say? What was that name again? Belikov... Doesn't ring any bells.)

Darkling enters the courtroom alone and takes his place at the defence's bench. The prosecutor's bench is still unoccupied, and the witness box is empty.

Darkling: (Everything ready for the main event to start. Well, except for one thing.)

He looks at the empty space next to him at the bench, then down at the photograph still in his hand.

Darkling: (Kana sure was cute when she was younger. She's cute now too, of course. Just in a different way...)

As Darkling tucks the photo away into his inner jacket pocket, movement from across the courtroom catches his eye. JPop takes his place at the prosecutor's bench.

Bailiff: Court is now in session! All rise!

The judge re-enters the courtroom.

Darkling: (leaning forward, his brow furrowing) (All right, then, JPop - what do you have in store for me this time?)

*The Judge nestles into his own seat, and everyone follows suit. JPop slumps into his seat with a solemn look on his face. The Judge continues.*

Judge: Court proceedings will now resume. Before the recess, we discovered that there were in fact two witnesses to Mr. Ito's murder. Unfortunately, due to strange circumstances, this fact was not revealed until a few moments ago. Prosecutor JPop, I understand not wanting to let either witness know what was happening inside this court, but why did you not visit my chambers with this news? It would have prevented several misunderstandings.

Darkling: (Not to mention the small heart attack you almost gave me...)

JPop: (sitting up properly, but maintaining his troubled look) I'm sorry, Your Honor, but I could not have told anyone about what I was planning. If I had revealed the second witness too early, then they might have had a chance to coordinate their testimonies. ...Unfortunately, it seems that we've already failed in that regard.

Judge: What do you mean, Prosecutor JPop?

JPop: (sighing) There was a security breach in the room where Mr. Belikov was being held, Your Honor. Completely unlike his usual self, Detective Gumshoe noticed that the special seal we placed above the door was broken. Additionally, there was evidence that shows the lock on the door had been picked. The breach was the reason why I asked for an additional 10 minutes of recess, Your Honor.

*The Jury begins to murmur to itself, but the Judge continues without banging his gavel. Darkling crosses his arms, rests them on the Defenses' Bench and focuses his view on his shoes with a sigh.*

Judge: This is indeed a grave matter. Did Mr. Belikov say anything about the door being opened?

JPop: (scoffing) Of course he didn't. All he said was that he was sitting there patiently and that he wanted to know what was going on. Apparently keeping him in the dark has made him a bit antsy. But it's all just a poor acting job. Not only has my plan been compromised, but we've probably got another "rigged" witness in court today. All we can hope to do now is make sure that Ms. Kashima doesn't communicate with anyone else today either. She may be called up later, after all.

Darkling: (raising his head and looking at JPop) Isn't the bailiff in charge of keeping an eye on your witness?

*All eyes in the courtroom shift over to the bailiff residing near the Judge's Bench. He uncomfortably shifts his feet and holds his hands up. JPop comes to his defense.*

JPop: No. The bailiff did not know about Mr. Belikov's presence in the court today. Remember that I wanted to keep both Ms. Kashima's and Mr. Belikov's testimonies and participations separated. I thought that simply keeping Mr. Belikov inside the Prosecutor's Lobby would have been enough. Part of the blame falls to me in that regard.

Judge: Well we certainly aren't going to let this witness come up to the Witness' Stand at the current state of things. But this does not bode well for Mr. Anastas' future. With no clear indication of whether he is innocent or not, this court will have to settle on a Guilty verdict.

Darkling: Objection! Your Honor, the Defense has exposed several contradictions showing that Mr. Anastas is not guilty! To simply pronounce him guilty at this point would be seriously overlooking all of the work that has been done today! Wasn't it you that said that every piece of evidence and testimony should be listened to and scrutinized before a verdict is placed? Where is that saying now?

*The Judge pauses for a moment, lost in thought. Eventually he looks back up at both Prosecutor JPop and Attorney Darkling.*

Judge: Prosecutor JPop, the Defense does have a point. What do you propose the court should do?

JPop: I'm not quite sure, Your Honor, but it seems as if our options are quite limited at this point. We could simply give Mr. Anastas a Guilty Verdict...

Darkling: I already told you why that's not going to happen!

JPop: Or... We could still have Darkling cross-examine Mr. Belikov.

*The courtroom goes silent.*

Darkling: You want me to cross-examine...

Judge: ...a "rigged" witness?

JPop: (smiling proudly) Precisely. Darkling, I'm sure that you'd take any alternative to a Guilty Verdict, right? Or am I wrong?

Darkling: (scratching the back of his head) Well...

*The Judge places a hand on his face and rests his elbows on his bench. It takes several seconds for him to reappear.*

Judge: I guess more ridiculous things have happened in the past. We've had a parrot and even a radio testify in this courtroom before. What's one more odd witness anyway?

*Several eyebrows are arched as the Judge delivers these words. Regardless, the Judge bangs his gavel and the bailiff exits the room. The court waits in silence for Mr. Belikov's entrance. Darkling stretches his arms and takes a look around the court.*

Darkling: (It's peaceful having things be this quiet. It's nice being able to look around without having to worry about what to do, even if it's just for a minute or two.)

Judge: Mr. Darkling?

Darkling: (sitting back up) Yes, Your Honor?

Judge: I've been meaning to ask, but where is your assistant, Ms. Kana?

Darkling: Ah, she has other matters to attend to at the moment and will not be able to attend this session, Your Honour.

Judge: I see. And you will be capable of continuing to represent your client in her absence?

Darkling: (What's that supposed to mean? I'm the attorney; Kana's just my assistant!) Yes, Your Honour.

Judge: Very good.

Darkling: (I wonder where Kana's gotten off to, anyway? She said she was going to go talk to Yumi, but JPop had Yumi placed in custody... For that matter, how did Yumi get in to see Belikov anyway? She's a crafty one, it seems...)

Judge: Mr Darkling.

Darkling: (It's typical of JPop to be so paranoid and secretive about his witnesses that he didn't place a guard at the door to the Prosecutor's Lobby. I wonder if the security cameras picked up anything. If we could get proof that Yumi sneaked in to see him--)

Judge: (clearing his throat loudly) Mr Darkling!

Darkling: (jumps) Ah! Yes, Your Honour?

Judge: The witness is here, Mr Darkling. Kindly restrict your internal monologues to your own time and do not allow them to hold up court proceedings.

Darkling: (grumbling) Yes, Your Honour.

*The eyes of the courtroom focus on the main entrance, which has been hastily patched since Detective Gumshoe's reckless destruction. A smooth breeze flows inside, taking its time to visit everyone as three people enter. The bailiff, dressed in his usual unkempt uniform looks quite bland compared to the man and woman behind him. The woman's fiery hair flows behind her as hints of hazel trace and scrutinize each member of the court. Her blazer is sleeked a dark navy blue, matching her slacks. A pink pin in the shape of a camellia flower can be seen nestled on her left lapel. Footsteps echoing from her heels act as a metronome as all three stop in front of the Judge's Bench. As the woman bows down gracefully, everyone's eyes shift to the silent man beside her. Simply bowing his head, the man with the dirty blond hair clasps his hands behind his back. The dark green silk under his suit contrasts the woman's underlying ferocity. Whispers can be heard throughout the jury as the woman returns from her bow.*

Naomi: Thank you for having us here today, Your Honor. My name is Naomi Tsubaki, and I will be acting as Mr. Belikov's translator today.

Judge: I see. It's a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Tsubaki. However, I wasn't aware that Mr. Belikov required a translator.

JPop: Your Honor, this witness has recently come to this country through an accelerated education program. His primary language is Russian, and he requires a translator until he can settle in. Ms. Tsubaki has been helping the Prosecutor's Office with foreign speakers for several years.

---

New Profiles:

• Naomi Tsubaki
  Age: 24, Gender: Female. A translator for the Prosecutor's Department. Fluent in several languages, she is an invaluable tool in any situation dealing with foreigners. Her personality matches fiery red hair, so it's easy to get on her bad side. People around the office say that her pink pin has some meaning to it.

• Jovan Belikov
  Age: 18, Gender: Male. A foreign exchange student from Russia. His primary language being Russian, he is having some trouble adjusting to different cultures and languages. He was a witness to Yuta Ito's murder.

---

Judge: Understood. I'll permit her to stay by Mr. Belikov's side as he gives his testimony. Does he understand why he has been brought in today?

JPop: (nodding his head) Yes, Your Honor. He also understands that we wish for him to retell the events of the murder.

Judge: Very well. Ms. Tsubaki, please accompany Mr. Belikov to the Witness' Stand.

*Naomi respectfully bows again and leads Jovan to his seat. The Judge looks over to the Defense's Bench, where Darkling is patiently waiting.*

Judge: Mr. Darkling. Are we ready to begin?

Darkling: Yes, Your Honor. The Defense is ready.

Judge: Ms. Tsubaki, please have the witness state his name and his profession.

*After a few seconds of discussion, Jovan looks up at the courtroom and speaks with a heavy accent.*

Jovan: My name Jovan Belikov. I am from Russia, and am student at University.

Judge: (banging his gavel) Please tell the court what happened on the day of the murder.

Darkling: (If someone really did get information through to this guy, then this testimony could mean big trouble for Mr. Anastas... I really wish that this security breach didn't happen at all. JPop said that this guy's statement was flimsy when they first talked, but maybe that's changed now. Well, there really isn't any other choice if you think about it. I'll just have to try my best here. ...And why haven't I heard about this translator until now? JPop sure is making my job hard.)

---

Cross-Examination: Jovan Belikov with Naomi Tsubaki

---

Music: Apollo Justice: Cross Examination ~ Moderate

---

Naomi: Your Honor, is it alright if I have Mr. Belikov tell me what he wishes to say, and then relay it to the court? He doesn't have that well of a grasp on our language, so I'd be doing this to avoid confusion.

Judge: Yes, I suppose that is the best thing to do in this situation. I'll permit you to relay his translated comments. Please begin.

*Naomi turns to Jovan, who begins to whisper in her ear. After a few seconds,*

Naomi: I had just gotten to the University at 12:40 PM. I did not have classes that day, but I needed to go to the Teacher's Lounge to meet a professor.

Darkling: Hold it! What did you have to meet the professor for?

*Naomi whispers Darkling's question to Jovan who nods and whispers back after a few seconds.*

Naomi: The professor had called me in because of some issues with mid-terms. I did not find out that the Teacher's Lounge and the School Records building had burned down until I got there.

---

*Jovan taps Naomi on the shoulder, who leans in and listens.*

Naomi: When I got to the burned remains of the buildings, I saw Michael inside the ruins. He had climbed over the caution tapes.

Darkling: Hold it! What time did you see the Defendant inside the ruins?

*Naomi translates and Jovan shrugs while whispering back.*

Naomi: I'm sorry, but I don't really know what time it was exactly. I could say that the time was maybe 12:45 PM, but that's only an approximation.

Darkling: And did you speak with my client at that point?

*Jovan simply shakes his head, apparently understanding what was said.*

Naomi: No, Mr. Darkling, Mr. Belikov did not speak with your client.

Darkling: While we are on the topic, how do you know my client's name?

*Naomi closes in on Jovan and whispers the question. Jovan stops for a moment and then whispers his answer back.*

Naomi: I did not know Michael's name at that time, nor did I really know who he was. I learned his name after Mr. Ito had said it. Since it looked like Michael was deep in thought, I left him alone.

---

Naomi: I had no real business with Michael, so I left him in peace. I was only waiting for my professor, but after a while, it looked like he was not going to show up. Yuta ended up showing up, and Michael came out of the ruins.

Darkling: Hold it! Did the two of them discuss anything while you were there? Did either of them notice you?

*Naomi talks to Jovan once more, taking more than a few seconds this time. Using various animated hand gestures, Jovan finishes talking and Naomi returns her gaze to Darkling.*

Naomi: I heard them arguing about several things. They talked about who had burned the buildings down. It isn't my normal behavior, but since it was such a serious discussion, I made sure I did not interrupt them. Yuta accused Michael of burning down the buildings. Michael said that he saw otherwise and had in fact seen Yuta in the act of torching it. He also said that Yuta had gone in and stole something from the School Records Room's Lost and Found cabinet. They really looked like they hated each other because of those debates.

Darkling: You said that there was a Lost and Found cabinet in the School Records Building? Did you hear anything about what exactly was stolen?

Naomi: I'm sorry, but they did not say what exactly was taken.

Darkling: (This is the first time that I've heard about this Lost and Found cabinet. Could it be important?)

---

Naomi: After a while, a fight broke out! Because I had noticed that there was another girl in the area with me watching, I did not get to see everything that happened. I tried my best to hide myself from the girl to avoid being detected, but in the end, she found I was there. At that time, I heard a scream come from where they were fighting. Yuta had been stabbed and Michael was on top of him with a knife!

Darkling: Hold it! Who was this girl that was with you?

*Naomi whispers the question to Jovan, who pauses for several seconds. Staring intently at Darkling, he turns and whispers back.*

Naomi: I did not know her.

Darkling: Then after Mr. Ito had been stabbed, what did you do? Did you just stay there hiding and listen to him die?

*Naomi pauses before whispering the question to Jovan. She gives a fierce look at Darkling.*

Naomi: Mr. Darkling. I would appreciate it if you did not ask such harsh questions to Mr. Belikov. Your tone is also something that you can work on. Hmph.

*'Sorry.' Darkling scratches the back of his head as Naomi speaks to Jovan. She turns back.*

Naomi: After Yuta was stabbed, the girl near me screamed and ran off. I assume that she went to call the police. As for me, I got up and approached the two of them. Yuta appeared to be dead. Michael just sat there, simply doing nothing. All he did was stare at me. It was very disturbing.

---

Naomi: I left the scene of the crime to look for a phone to call the police just in case the girl did not. I found a payphone near some bushes to the side of the buildings. I did not have any change unfortunately, but for some reason the phone still worked fine. I called the police and waited for their arrival.

Darkling: Hold it! What did you do while you were waiting for the police to arrive?

Naomi: I stayed a safe distance from Michael, since he had a knife with him. It looked like he was going through some sort of wallet, however. I did not get a good look, so I can't tell you what was inside either.

---

Darkling: (There's something bugging me about this guy. His testimony sounds legit enough, but for some reason the pauses are giving me some weird vibes. It might be nothing, but I'm not sure about that either. There has to be something wrong with his testimony. It matches really well to Ms. Kashima's testimony, so this is probably the product of that security breach. Argh... There's got to be something he's messed up on!)

Darkling: (Well, what now? There seem to be any number of areas where I could press further, even leaving aside the question of whether or not Belikov's English is good enough for him to understand what Mr Anastas and Yuta were saying to each other. He obviously has some grip on the language - enough for him to meet with his tutor unaccompanied, and probably enough to say "help, someone's been murdered!" to the police... Uh-oh, the judge is looking at me. I'd better look like I'm deep in thought.)

Darkling screws his face up and places one finger in the middle of his forehead, almost going cross-eyed in the process.

Darkling: (I mean, why didn't Belikov want Yumi to know he was there? He had a valid reason for being there, after all. Who knows - maybe it's Yumi who didn't have the valid reason for--)

Judge: Mr Darkling?

Darkling: (What now? I've got my look of intense concentration on and everything!) Yes, Your Honour?

Judge: (kindly) Would you like a short recess?

Darkling: (blinks) Um, no, thank you... (curiously) Why do you think I would want a recess?

Judge: Well, you have that constipated look on your face. I know it all too well, myself. Long hours sitting here, day in, day out; the lousy food from the courthouse cafeteria... It does have an effect on a man's regularity, you know. Why, practically every morning I find myself sitting in the bathroom for what seems like hours with just that expression on my--

????: OBJECTION!

The camera whips across to JPop, who is covering his mouth and looking faintly disgusted.

JPop: (pointing finger emphatically) That's too much information, Your Honour!

Judge: (blinks) But I was just commiserating with Mr Darkling here. I suppose a young man like yourself wouldn't have problems with irregularity. I remember when my bowel movements were like clockwork, too. Every morning, without fail. I would just sit down and--

Darkling: (hastily) Objection sustained! The defence will continue with its cross-examination!

Judge: Now wait a minu--

Darkling: (without pausing to think) Witness! You said you arrived at the Teacher's Lounge at approximately 12:45, yes?

Jovan: Da. Is correct.

Darkling: And how long would you say that Mr Anastas and Mr Ito were conversing for?

*Jovan thinks for a moment, his eyes mingling around the patterns on the ceiling of the courtroom. Looking at his watch and then Darking, he opens his mouth to say something, but stalls. Naomi turns to him and whispers something into his ear. He nods quickly and responds to her whisper.*

Naomi: I arrived around 12:45 PM and saw Michael standing in the ruins. For a few minutes, nothing eventful really happened. Later, when Yuta arrived, they may have argued for a while, because they said many things. I'm sorry, but I did not think of checking my watch for the exact times. I think I placed the call to the police after 1:00 PM.

Darkling: (Well... How exactly does this help me? Urgh... I don't think it does. This guy's testimony is really packed tight. Usually contradictions should be obvious right around now, but I can't seem to find any in this round! This is really bad...)

*Darkling rests his nestles his head onto his palm, deep in thought. The courtroom is silent with the exception of a long drawn out sigh from the Defense's Bench.*

Judge: Mr. Darkling?

Darkling: Yes, Your Honor?

Judge: If you cannot find anything wrong with Mr. Belikov's testimony, then perhaps he is correct? It does not look like there are any problems at the moment, though you are free to ask more questions if you wish. I'd like to remind you that if you end this cross-examination that there are no more witnesses left to testify. We might very well be close to the end of the trial at this point.

Darkling: (Thanks for piling on the pressure, Your Honor. It's always refreshing when you state things to keep me on my toes, Your Honor.) Yes, Your Honor, I understand the gravity of the situation. Please give me more time to think. (...Well, I guess the only thing to do at this point is ask more questions, right?) *sits up straight*

JPop: Darkling, would you permit me to ask a question?

Darkling: (pausing for a moment) Um... Sure...?

JPop: Thank you. Witness, can you please tell the court why you were intent on hiding the entire time?

*Naomi turns to Jovan and whispers JPop's question into his ear. After some thought, he responds.*

Naomi: Even though I had a valid reason for being there, I did not want to disturb such a delicate situation. Yumi was a teacher's aide in Michael's debate class, and the two that were fighting had a lot of spirit and built up anger. I did not want to get involved.

JPop: Thank you. That is all.

*The silence returns to the courtroom and eyes are again focused on Darkling.*

Darkling: (Great. I still have no idea what to say! There has to be something wrong with this testimony! Mr. Anastas can't have done the murder like this guy is saying... Right? ...No. I've got to stop thinking that way. I've got to believe that Mr. Anastas is innocent. So what do I do now? Is there something that Mr. Belikov knows that he shouldn't know? Anything at all? He says that he didn't really know Ms. Kashima, Mr. Anastas or Mr. Ito... So...)

Darkling: Hold it! Now, just wait a minute!

Darkling places his hands on his hips, looking smug.

Darkling: (slyly) Or perhaps... fifteen?

Judge: (bangs gavel) There will be no usurping of my authority in this courtroom, Mr Darkling! Only I am allowed to call for breaks in the proceedings!

Darkling: Sorry, Your Honour. That wasn't what I was getting at.

Judge: Then... what were you getting at?

JPop: (irritably) Yes, out with it, Ling.

Darkling: It's very simple. If events occurred as Mr Belikov has stated, then he would have had to wait a 'minute' - or more accurately, fifteen. Because--

Darkling whips his finger out, pointing directly at the startled Belikov, who winces and covers his ears as the background music gets cranked up to 11.

Darkling: (triumphantly) --according to Ms Kashima's testimony, she didn't leave class until 1:15 pm! She couldn't have been at the scene of the crime at 1:00!