Turnabout Revolution - Transcript - Part 1

Dhurke:
Hm? Why, this is Apollo's journal.

Apollo:
Huh?! What's it doing at the office?

Trucy:
It's magic!

Dhurke:
Let's see what he wrote...

Apollo:
N-No, don't!

Dhurke:
Huh... There's nothing in here.

Apollo:
What?

Trucy:
This calls for a special spell! Presto diario!

Dhurke:
Why, there's writing appearing right before my very eyes!

Trucy:
Like I said, it's magic! Now go ahead, read to your heart's content!

Apollo:
Wow! ...Er, I mean, give me that!

Apollo:
That's Charley the houseplant.

Dhurke:
You know, my hideout used to have a houseplant, too. We called it "Apollo."

Trucy:
I bet it was a cactus!

Dhurke:
How'd you guess?

Trucy:
Because Polly's hair's just as spiny!

Apollo:
Hey, leave my hair out of this.

Trucy:
And he has a prickly attitude, to boot!

Apollo:
(I better quit while I'm ahead.)

Dhurke:
More magic props... Oh! I've seen a ring like this before! I used to be quite good with these.

Apollo:
Really? Why don't you show us?

Dhurke:
Well, if you insist! I'll show you the act of daring-do I used to perform to supplement my income. First, I have to light the ring on fire, then I'll jump through it...

Apollo:
That's a fire hoop, this is a kid's toy, Dhurke...

Dhurke:
This is one seriously cluttered office. I mean, do you really need a piano here?

Trucy:
Well, it has sentimental value for Daddy, you see...

Apollo:
Yeah, but this office could use a little help with its bottom line. What if we sold it?

Trucy:
Apollo! ...You'd better give me a cut of the proceeds when you do.

Dhurke:
Money before memories, eh? This office's finances really must be in dire straits then.

Dhurke:
This is one of those contraptions for cutting people into pieces!

Trucy:
How did you know that, Mr. Dhurke?

Dhurke:
Well, it just so happens I've been in one of these myself.

Apollo:
Really?

Trucy:
You have?

Dhurke:
Yes. Once, when I was being held prisoner by Minister Inga's secret police... ...they tried to torture me into revealing one of my compatriot's hideouts.

Apollo:
That's a torture device, this is a magic prop, Dhurke...

Dhurke:
Man, I barely escaped that thing alive!

Trucy:
Well, you have my respect as a magician for your death-defying spirit!

Dhurke:
What's with this bright red jacket? Who would wear such a garish thing?

Trucy:
Maybe one of our clients forgot it here.

Dhurke:
I'd love to get a look at the man who'd dare wear something like this!

Trucy:
Me, too!

Apollo:
(I know I don't wear it much, but... she has to know it's mine, right?)

Dhurke:
Pleased to meet you, little lady. My name is Dhurke Sahdmadhi. I'm a... well... a rebel by trade.

Trucy:
A rebel? But on TV, they were calling you an insurgent. So which is it? Personally, I vote for a rebel with a cause -- a real "head"-ache for anyone in your way!

Apollo:
Trucy...!

Dhurke:
Hah-ha ha ha ha ha! You got me there. I'm the head of a resistance group. The Defiant Dragons. We're like the good, the bad, and the ugly... but without the good part. In Khura'in, I'm like the bogeyman -- a tall tale parents use to spook their kids straight!

Trucy:
That's too bad. You seem like you'd be a fun, cool guy to hang with!

Dhurke:
...This little lady's a real catch, son. I'm talking bride material, if you get my drift.

Apollo:
Wait, what?

Trucy:
Oh! Stop it! You're embarrassing me... Dad.

Dhurke:
Hah-ha ha ha ha ha! She's a plucky one, all right!

Apollo:
Someone pluck me out of my misery...

Trucy:
Now, about that "man who raised you" business...

Trucy:
What did Mr. Dhurke mean when he said that he's "the man who raised you," Apollo?

Apollo:
The truth is, I grew up in the Kingdom of Khura'in. Did I, uh... never mention that?

Trucy:
Oh, so you grew up in... Khura'in?! Wait, are you saying... ...you're not from around here, Polly?

Apollo:
No, it's just I was raised in Khura'in when I was really little.

Trucy:
Still, that's a shocker. It's like I hardly know anything about you! How come you never told me?!

Dhurke:
...Apollo. You really haven't said a word about your past, have you?

Apollo:
What, that I was raised by a wanted criminal? It's like a bad joke.

Trucy:
It does sound rather melodramatic. I doubt anyone would even believe you. So you two haven't seen each other in a while, huh?

Apollo:
You could say that. I'd wager it's been at least ten years.

Trucy:
Wow... That's a really long time.

Apollo:
Yeah, well, I figured he'd forgotten about me.

Dhurke:
Not a chance! It's just, well... Starting a revolution takes time, and keeping it going even more so... And being a wanted man, I couldn't just hop a plane to come say hello.

Apollo:
...I get it. It's fine. (Though, truth be told... ...it's weird having Dhurke show up acting all paternal. I'd even almost forgotten about Khura'in... No, that's not true. I probably tried to forget about it on purpose.)

Trucy:
Now then, Mr. Dhurke, what is it we can help you with?

Dhurke:
I need to get my hand on the Founder's Orb, the most sacred treasure of Khura'in. That's where you come in.

Apollo:
The Founder's Orb?

Trucy:
Wait, but didn't you say you already have it in that broadcast of yours?

Dhurke:
Hah-ha ha ha ha ha! Don't go believing everything you see on TV, little lady. No one's seen hide nor hair of the Founder's Orb for some time.

Trucy:
No way!

Apollo:
S-So that was just a bluff...? What are you going to do if you DON'T find it?

Dhurke:
I don't know. Guess that just means we HAVE to find it, son. 'Cause I can't really back down now, can I? Hah-ha ha ha ha ha!

Apollo:
(*sigh* Different year, same old Dhurke. It's all coming back to me now.) Hold on. I think I read something about this in the newspaper a while back. Something about you stealing a sacred treasure from a temple's treasure room.

Dhurke:
That's a load of crock. We didn't lay a finger on the orb.

Apollo:
Really?

Dhurke:
Yes, Baseless allegations, all of it. Our enemy has really found a way to keep us all on our toes.

Trucy:
Ooh! So it's like a setup!

Dhurke:
That's the long and short of it. However, my compatriot has been hot on the orb's trail. And just the other day, his hard work finally paid off. We now know the Founder's Orb is in... Kurain Village.

Apollo:
Kurain Village?

Dhurke:
Yes. I hear there are spirit mediums there. They even have direct relations with Khura'in.

Apollo:
Spirit mediums... Right...

Dhurke:
Some doctor of archeology there supposedly has the orb. His name is Archie Buff. My Defiant Dragon compatriot has already made contact with him. Apparently, someone asked the doctor to study the orb.

Apollo:
So whoever asked him to do that is the real thief?

Dhurke:
Most likely.

Apollo:
And you think this guy will just hand the orb over to you?

Dhurke:
My compatriot, Datz, says Dr. Buff has already promised to do so. It seems he knew it was stolen, and wanted to do the right thing.

Apollo:
(Datz... I remember running around him when I was a kid.) (So he's here, too, huh.)

Dhurke:
Apollo, I want you to be present as my lawyer when I take possession of the orb. Would you do that for me?

Apollo:
.........Fine, but I'll charge my standard fee. Now tell me about the Founder's Orb.

Apollo:
If I remember correctly, the founder is always depicted as a faceless spirit medium.

Trucy:
What do you mean "faceless"?

Dhurke:
Images of the founder, the Holy Mother of Khura'in, never show her face. To depict it is to commit the greatest taboo in Khura'inism.

Apollo:
The greatest taboo, huh? (I wonder why? I mean, what could she have looked like to make them hide her face like that?

Dhurke:
As for the Founder's Orb, it was discovered during an excavation eight years ago... ...and has an interesting legend that goes along with it. It's said that there's a riddle to the orb, and that any who can solve it... ...will receive immense spiritual power from the founder herself.

Apollo:
Sounds like one big fairy tale to me.

Dhurke:
In any case... ...it's just what us Defiant Dragons need to get our revolution started. With it, we can gain the spiritual power, and thus, the legal authority to rule Khura'in!

Apollo:
Wait, suppose I believe this legend. Then, anyone could become king or queen? And THAT'S why you think it'll help you overthrow the Gar'an regime?

Dhurke:
Only the rulers of Khura'in have ever laid eyes on the orb, Apollo. A legendary treasure that bestows immense spiritual power... Doesn't that sound like something you'd want to see with your own two eyes?

Apollo:
(...That does sound just a tiny bit intriguing.)

Founder's Orb added to the Court Record.

Dhurke:
What's that?

Apollo:
It's my attorney's badge.

Dhurke:
I can relate. I used to want to show mine off, too. But don't ever show it to anyone in Khura'in. They'll run you right out of town the moment they find out you're a lawyer.

Apollo:
I wonder how it went for Mr. Wright. Knowing him, he probably flashed his left and right...

Dhurke:
The Founder's Orb... They say the Holy Mother will return when the riddle of the orb is solved. And she will bestow great spiritual power upon whoever accomplishes that feat.

Apollo:
(I wonder if I could channel spirits if I had such power.)

Dhurke:
Brings back memories... He was a fine young man. So cheerful and fun to be around. His big, booming singing voice would captivate everyone in the tavern. But looks-wise, he was like a grownup version of you.

Apollo:
Um, that still doesn't give me a sense of what my real father was like.

Apollo:
(A phone booth and a bus stop made of wood. They both look really old. You hardly ever see phone booths in the city anymore.)

Dhurke:
Apollo... what's this glass box for?

Apollo:
(I guess you hardly see them in Khura'in, too.)

Apollo:
There's a big boulder towering into the sky over there. According to the sign, it's called the "Kurain Boulder." It also says that a spirit dwells within it. Hmm... A rock with a spirit in it?

Dhurke:
It's called animism – the belief that spirits dwell within inanimate objects. They've probably enshrined this boulder as a sacred object. Their tradition of worshiping such objects is similar to our tradition in Khura'in.

Apollo:
I-Interesting... (Who knew Dhurke could make sense every once in a while?)

Dhurke:
Seeing those mountains really takes me back. I remember when we used to live high in the mountains to escape from the government.

Apollo:
So, you don't live there anymore?

Dhurke:
Nope. I needed a more convenient place to lead the revolution from. But that old mountain hut is still there.

Apollo:
(Man, I miss that hut...)

Dhurke:
What, are you getting homesick, Apollo? You can come on back to Khura'in anytime, you know?

Apollo:
N-No, no, I'm fine. Besides, I've got a lot on my plate here...

Apollo:
A thatched roof... First time I've ever seen one in real life.

Dhurke:
It looks just like the traditional thatched roofs they use in Japan. All we need now are some samurai with topknots, a few ninjas, and a cuddly mascot.

Apollo:
When was the last time you were in Japan?

Dhurke:
Mass transit and electronic communications... This country's infrastructure is really advanced compared to Khura'in.

Apollo:
Why don't you see the sights once you have the orb?

Dhurke:
Well... I guess I could use a break. How about you show me around?

Apollo:
...Oh, um, I'll probably be busy with work, so, uh...

Dhurke:
...I-I see.

Trucy:
What are you talking about, Polly? Your only work right now is cleaning the office.

Dhurke:
The Founder's Orb should be with the doctor right now. What do you say we go take a gander?

Apollo:
What if he doesn't have it? What if you came all the way from Khura'in for nothing?

Dhurke:
I'll cross that bridge if and when I come to it. Besides... even if I leave empty-handed, at least I got to see you, son.

Apollo:
...Oh, ha ha. Thanks?

Dhurke:
N-No, no – I really mean it.

Apollo:
So the doctor died in an accident?

Ema:
I received a call this morning saying Dr. Buff had been found dead under a pile of books.

Apollo:
This morning? (Talk about bad timing...) You mentioned that he had fallen off a ladder.

Ema:
Right. We believe he fell from the top of that big ladder there. Apparently, he triggered an avalanche of books while fumbling to reach one. And that sent him headlong on a fatal fall onto the hard floor.

Trucy:
How sad... Killed by his own books. But at least he was doing something he loved.

Dhurke:
For a scholar, I suppose it's kind of like a soldier killed in the line of duty. You could say he died an honorable death.

Apollo:
Ema, who was the first one to discover the body?

Ema:
About that... Whoever it was, it seems they wanted to remain anonymous.

Apollo:
What?

Ema:
It happens now and then. Some people would rather not get involved with the police.

Dhurke:
I can relate to that.

Apollo:
(Yeah, being a wanted man and all.) What now, Dhurke? A dead man can't exactly hand over the orb.

Dhurke:
We'll just have to find it. It must be around here somewhere.

Apollo:
Just to fill you in, Ema, we're actually here to get something.

Apollo:
Pops here had an agreement with the doctor. The doctor was supposed to hand over a sacred relic known as the Founder's Orb.

Dhurke:
"P-Pops"...?

Ema:
Oh, I see. That could be a problem, considering he's dead. Do you have a plan B?

Apollo:
Umm...

Dhurke:
I have an agreement in writing. My compatriot Datz should have it.

Ema:
Well, there shouldn't be any problems, then. So, who IS this gentleman you're escorting?

Apollo:
Oh, right, I haven't introduced you [sic] yet. This is Dhurke. He's from the Kingdom of Khura'in.

Ema:
All the way from Khura'in, huh? So, what do you do there?

Dhurke:
I used to practice law, but I'm taking a break from all that. I'm focused now on making Khura'in a better place through... volunteer work.

Ema:
Volunteer work, huh? How interesting...

Apollo:
(...Well, it's not technically a lie.)

Ema:
So, how do you two know each other?

Apollo:
Oh, um... He's sorta my foster father.

Ema:
Come again?

Trucy:
Yeah! And he's Prosecutor Sahdmadhi's real father, too!

Ema:
Whaaat?! You mean you... and Prosecutor Sahdmadhi... ............I'm so sorry. It seems you've had quite a life.

Apollo:
(...Guess she's put a few things together.)

Ema:
Actually, Dhurke, you look kind of... familiar. Have we met before?

Dhurke:
Um, not that I recall.

Apollo:
(Great... She must've seen that news report on TV.) (It will really complicate things if she figures out he's a wanted man.)

Apollo:
There are lots of guys who look like him. Sure you're not mistaking him for someone else?

Ema:
Are there, really? I mean, a middle-aged man with long hair and an eye patch? You don't see that every day.

Apollo:
W-Well, I'm sure you're just imagining things.

Ema:
So what does that sacred relic you're searching for look like? I mean, there's lots of stuff in here that's old and relic-y.

Dhurke:
Indeed. Unfortunately, I've no idea what it actually looks like.

Apollo:
So then, how are we supposed to find it?

Dhurke:
That, I do not know, either. We'll just have to go through each candidate one by one.

Apollo:
Great plan of attack there, Dhurke. Well, Ema, do you mind if we give this room a once-over?

Ema:
...I guess not. But in exchange, you're going to help me in my investigation.

Apollo:
Sure. It can't hurt.

Trucy:
Ooh, I can't wait to get started! It'll be like hunting for buried treasure!

Ema:
What do you think you're doing? You can't just poke around without my permission.

Apollo:
(Guess I should ask her what's going on first.)

Apollo:
So this is where Dr. Buff died.

Ema:
Poor man... He fell right on his head, and probably died almost instantly.

Apollo:
I see some blood on the book there, but what's that dark stain?

Ema:
It appears to be coffee. It's still damp, so it must have gotten on there recently, perhaps even last night.

Dhurke:
That's a mighty big window he's next to -- big enough for someone to see inside.

Ema:
Exactly. That's how the local resident who reported his death found him to begin with. The doctor's body was visible from outside the window. And a passerby called in earlier this morning to report what they'd found.

Apollo:
So you mean this case is still only a few hours old?

Dhurke:
That explains why your investigation is just getting underway.

Study Photo added to the Court Record.
Study Diagram added to the Court Record.

Apollo:
So this is where Dr. Buff died.

Dhurke:
Yeah, the police received a call this morning so their investigation is still just getting started.

Apollo:
There's a pair of glasses on this little pyramid here.

Ema:
They belonged to the doctor. Scientifically speaking, they appear to be your ordinary run-of-the-mill glasses.

Trucy:
I guess they don't pique her interest, scientifically speaking.

Apollo:
This PC is password protected. Trucy, you think your magic can do something about this?

Trucy:
Hmm... I don't think it can override a password. Now, a locked desk... That I can get into. Like yours back at the office, Polly!

Apollo:
(Yikes... I'd better watch what I put in there.)

Trucy:
What? Do you put weird stuff in your desk? Stuff you don't want anyone to see?

Apollo:
Jeez, are you a mind reader, too?

Trucy:
No, but unlocking your thoughts is a cinch!

Apollo:
The doctor fell from the top of that ladder.

Dhurke:
Hmm... From that height, a fall onto a hard surface would probably kill anyone.

Apollo:
I don't know why anyone would want to climb that high in the first place.

Trucy:
Guess you can say he climbed it all the way to heaven...

Apollo:
It's a two-tone raincoat.

Dhurke:
It's still a bit damp. I think someone might've worn it recently.

Apollo:
There are a few pairs of shoes here. I guess there must be an entrance on this floor, too.

Ema:
Yeah, there's a backdoor over that way. But it's usually locked from what I can tell. The visitor's entrance is up that spiral staircase.

Apollo:
(That's the way we came in.)

Apollo:
There are animal drawings on the floor. They look like those famous geoglyph things.

Dhurke:
They remind me of the chalk outlines detectives draw around bodies. And the doctor's has [sic] just joined them. Now that's what I call dedication to one's field.

Apollo:
I don't think it was on purpose.

Apollo:
What a huge window. I bet you could see the entire study from the outside.

Dhurke:
How could he concentrate in here? I'd feel so exposed.

Apollo:
Well... He does have a bookshelf positioned for some privacy around his desk.

Dhurke:
There's some sort of machinery inside this clay figure.

Apollo:
Whoa, it's moving!

EX-TER-MI-NATE. EX-TER-MI-NATE. DES-TROY ALL TAR-GETS. EX-T-T-TERRRrrr... *scrape* *grind*

Apollo:
D-Do I even want to know what that thing is for?!

Apollo:
Look, it's one of the doctor's notebooks.

Dhurke:
Maybe there's something about the orb in there. It's a photo of the treasure box! The one from Tehm'pul Temple's treasure room. These must be his research notes on the Founder's Orb.

Apollo:
What's that on the right page? It looks like a poem or something.

Dhurke:
Let's see... Oh, it's the song that's performed during the Dance of Devotion. It's been sung during Khura'inese rites of offering since ancient times.

Apollo:
Oh, I think I've heard of that.

Dhurke:
There's also a legend associated with the song. Some say the solution to the orb's riddle is contained therein.

Apollo:
It's a song everyone in Khura'in knows? Not much of a way to keep it secret.

Trucy:
It's called "hiding secrets in plain sight," Polly. Us magicians know all about that.

Dhurke:
Huh. That's strange.

Apollo:
What is?

Dhurke:
Dr. Buff's notes contain the second half of the song. Only the first half is sung during the Dance of Devotion. Most people haven't even heard the second half.

Apollo:
The second half? As in the part that begins, "Offer thy prayers"?

Dhurke:
I'm impressed. That's some thorough research he was conducting.

Research Notes added to the Court Record.

Apollo:
Is this a bird?

Dhurke:
It looks like an airplane to me.

Apollo:
No, there couldn't have been any planes back when this was made.

Dhurke:
Yes, but it has wings and both horizontal and vertical stabilizers. That makes it an airplane.

Apollo:
No, it's definitely a bird.

Dhurke:
Open your eyes, son... As a lawyer, your job is to see the true nature of things.

Apollo:
(I still say it's a bird.)

Apollo:
There's a brown stain on this scroll. Hm? Why does it smell like... gravy?

Dhurke:
Why would there be a gravy stain on it?

Apollo:
Who knows? But it looks like it's meant to be there.

Dhurke:
Maybe the artist was trying to inspire a "gravy" new trend: food splatter art.

Apollo:
That pun wounded me "gravy-ly," Dhurke.

Apollo:
A coffeemaker and a bunch of coffee cups... He must've taken his coffee breaks here. Oh, and there's a filter with old coffee grounds in here. *sigh* Guess I'd better clean this up.

Dhurke:
What are you doing there, son?

Apollo:
Ah! (What AM I doing, cleaning this office?!)

Dhurke:
Don't tell me they have you on coffee duty back at your office.

Apollo:
N-No, no... It's just, if I don't keep the place clean, no one will.

Apollo:
It's a golden statue. Looks pretty old, too.

Dhurke:
Hmm... I imagine it has great archeological value... Maybe too great for a private researcher of Dr. Buff's caliber.

Apollo:
I wonder how he got his hands on something like this.

Apollo:
"Ami"... Hmm... Why's someone's name written on here?

Trucy:
Maybe it's so if it ever got lost, someone could return it to its owner. You know, like how school kids put their names on things.

Apollo:
Yeah, but this is just an urn. And the name is written so big.

Trucy:
Well, I wrote my name on my magic panties. It says W-R-I-G-H-T in super big letters!

Apollo:
(The less said about this, the better.)

Apollo:
It's a spiral staircase... And it's connected to a hallway up there. Why'd they have to place the second floor so high up?

Ema:
Wait... You're not afraid of heights, are you?

Apollo:
Oh, um... Well...

Trucy:
Oh, Polly's hilarious around high places. He gets all wobbly, like a baby deer taking its first steps. And his face turns as green as a watermelon.

Apollo:
It's not nice to make fun of people's phobias, you know.

Dhurke:
Come to think of it, the visitor's entrance is on the second floor. What an odd layout for a house...

Apollo:
What a huge wall relief. Hmm... It seems to depict a spirit channeling.

Dhurke:
Hey... this spirit medium looks like the Holy Mother of Khura'in.

Apollo:
Yeah, her face was left blank, but the rest is clearly detailed and well-crafted.

Dhurke:
Did you know some researchers claim that the Holy Mother had three eyes? And that her third eye was able to divine the truth, just like the gods above. It is said to be on her forehead.

Apollo:
Like you said, you shouldn't believe everything you hear.

Apollo:
That's one big suitcase.

Dhurke:
It's locked. Is it the doctor's?

Ema:
No, someone left it here last night.

Apollo:
So the doctor might've had a visitor? But how can you tell?

Ema:
That sticker there. You only see those on airport luggage. Which means, its owner is likely from overseas.

Dhurke:
Is there any way to figure out who it belongs to?

Apollo:
Not unless we can open it to see what's inside.

Dhurke:
Guess not...

???:
Heh heh heh. Ah-ha ha ha!

Ema:
That's because you're not me: Ema Skye, forensics expert extraordinaire! Try as you might, you won't find the word "impossible" in my forensics handbook!

Dhurke:
I-Is she okay, son? It's like she became an entirely different person.

Apollo:
Oh, that's just what happens when her forensics switch gets flipped.

Ema:
With this, identifying the suitcase's owner will be easy as pie!

Apollo:
Is that fingerprint powder?

Ema:
That's right. And there's no better time than the present to use it! Here we go! You remember how to do this, right?

Apollo:
I apply the powder to where I think some prints might be, and blow any excess off?

Ema:
Exactly. Well, have at it!

Apollo:
(Hmm... Now where would I expect to find prints on a suitcase?)

Apollo:
Hey Ema, I've got a pretty clear print here.

Ema:
Okay, now let me know who you think it could belong to.

Apollo:
(Hmm, who could it be? It would have to be someone who would've paid Dr. Buff a visit.)

Ema:
We have a match!

Apollo:
Datz... Come to think of it, he did stop by to see the doctor, didn't he? To conclude the orb transfer agreement.

Dhurke:
So he's the one who forgot his suitcase here.

Apollo:
Where do you suppose he is now?

Dhurke:
Haven't heard from him in a while, and he's not answering his phone.

Trucy:
Wait, you don't think he left his phone inside his suitcase, do you?

Dhurke:
I wouldn't put it past that knucklehead.

Ema:
Actually, I think we may have run into him earlier.

Apollo:
Really?

Ema:
A suspicious man had been reported in the area, but when one of my officers approached to question him, he took off like a shot.

Apollo:
What?!

Dhurke:
Sorry about that. Khura'inese people aren't all like him... I swear.

Ema:
Well, he's probably still in the village somewhere.

Apollo:
Maybe he knows something about the orb.

Ema:
Your attorney's badge? Huh...

Apollo:
What, that normally gets a better reaction from you.

Ema:
I'm tired of collecting your fingerprints. It's kind of lost its luster.

Apollo:
Yeah, but who knows? There could be other people's prints on it.

Ema:
Ooh, that's true! Hand it over, buddy!

Apollo:
Ah!

Ema:
............Hmph. The only prints I found were yours.

Apollo:
Blue: (Argh, it's all dusty now.)

Ema:
Scientifically speaking, ancient relics are highly fascinating.

Apollo:
Why's that?

Ema:
Because of all the tests I can run. CT scans, electron microscopy, chemical analysis... The list goes on and on! If you ever do find one, you'd better bring it to me straight away!

Apollo:
Can I count on getting it back intact?

Ema:
We'll see. Scientific advances don't come without sacrifices, you know.

Apollo:
(...I know someone who WON'T be seeing the orb anytime soon.)

Ema:
Maybe it was Dr. Buff's wish to die under a pile of his beloved books. I know I could die happily under a big pile of forensic equipment.

Apollo:
Well, I'll pass on dying under a big pile of evidence from my past cases. It's all murder weapons and photos of dead bodies.

Ema:
So, what? Are you saying you don't love your job?

Apollo:
Being buried in the tools of one's trade is hardly a valid way to assess dedication, Ema.

Ema:
You sure like to shove things in people's faces, don't you?

Apollo:
What about you? You're always dusting around for prints.

Ema:
That's my job!

Apollo:
Well, it's not like I'm presenting evidence for the fun of it, either.

Ema:
Really? Because it sure seems like you enjoy it, Apollo.

Apollo:
Right back at you, Ema.

Apollo:
Is this what you ride around in when you're campaigning?

Atishon:
That's right. It's perfect for the narrow roads and steep hills here in this village. It has a top speed of 5 miles per hour, but it suffers from serious reliability issues. Namely, these imbeciles tire out too quickly.

Staff:
*cough* *huff, puff* We'll try harder next time, sir!

Apollo:
(Poor guys... They're exhausted and covered in sweat.)

Atishon:
The Atishon family has been in politics for generations, even back in the old country.

Apollo:
Really?

Atishon:
My grandfather, Abe Atishon, was a prominent member of Congress. And he was born right here in Kurain. There isn't a person here who hasn't heard of him.

Apollo:
(All I asked about was his palanquin.)

Atishon:
You must've heard of the Atishons. I'm even reviving our old country campaigning style.

Apollo:
...Oh, um... politics aren't really my thing. Trucy?

Trucy:
I don't recall ever reading about them at school.

Atishon:
Feh... Young people today. You people really need to pay more attention to politics.

Atishon:
So, what business did you people have at Dr. Buff's house?

Apollo:
He was going to transfer ownership of the Founder's Orb to us. It's a sacred relic from the Kingdom of Khura'in.

Atishon:
The Founder's Orb? So you tried to get your hands on it, did you?

Apollo:
Wait, what do you know about the orb?

Atishon:
Heh. I know that it's mine, that's what.

Apollo:
How do you figure that?

Atishon:
Because I know it's not the Founder's Orb. Its real name is the Crystal of Ami Fey.

Apollo:
The Crystal of Ami Fey?

Atishon:
That's right. It's been passed down for generations in the Atishon family. Until it was stolen, that is. But just when I had zeroed in on the culprit, the doctor hid it away and then kicked the bucket.

Apollo:
So you're saying Dr. Buff stole your family heirloom? (That's not what Dhurke said. Strange...) But I've been told the doctor himself said that he had the "Founder's Orb."

Atishon:
It's all that weird foreigner's doing! He filled the doctor's head with nonsense! Nonsense like the Crystal of Ami Fey being the Founder's Orb.

Apollo:
"Weird foreigner"? (Could he mean...?) Is this the foreigner you're talking about?

Atishon:
Yes, that's him!

Apollo:
I thought so. (Now we really have to find Datz.)

Dhurke:
Do you know where this man is now?

Atishon:
I imagine he's at the Detention Center by now. I called the authorities after I found him hiding in my dog's doghouse.

Apollo:
Whaaat?!

Dhurke:
That buffoon...

Apollo:
Well, at least we know where he is now.

Dhurke:
Let's head over to the Detention Center and see what he knows about the Founder's Orb.

Atishon:
So, you really are after my crystal.

Apollo:
No, we're looking for the Founder's Orb, and we have an agreement to prove it.

Atishon:
Well, just so you know, you're not going to lay a finger on it. It's mine. And I intend to give it to my benefactor.

Apollo:
Your... benefactor?

My benefactor is ready to support my rise to the pinnacle of the political world. They have immense influence here, you see, and I intend to harness that influence.

Apollo:
So you're just going to give your family heirloom away to this person?

Atishon:
That's right. It's a purely political decision.

Apollo:
And in exchange, your patron will get the people of Kurain to vote for you?

Atishon:
Heh heh heh. Eminent politicians are skilled at leveraging all of their connections.

Apollo:
......... (Isn't it illegal to buy votes?) Well, good luck with that, I guess.

Atishon:
Heh, you just wait. Paul Atishon will reign supreme someday.

Apollo:
Actually, I'm a lawyer.

Atishon:
Heh heh heh. You're so shallow. Relying on your badge to impress people... What would you be without it? I petty men like you have no sense of self. Real men make their own mark in this world.

Apollo:
(Says the man who's riding on his grandfather's coattails.)

Apollo:
What do you think about this?

Atishon:
Paul Atishon is the "squeaky-clean candidate." So if you're going to bribe me, try to be a little more subtle about it, would you?

Apollo:
Huh? I wasn't trying to bribe you.

Atishon:
"Don't accept any bribes unless they come in unmarked bills." This is but a fraction of the political wisdom my grandfather shared with me. Better luck next time.

Apollo:
(After a spin cycle or two with those bills, I bet I'D be "squeaky-clean," too.)

Leads to:
May 16
Detention Center - Visitor's Room

Leads to:
(Wright Anything Agency)

Dhurke:
About that Paul Atishon fellow... He's aiming to be a councilman and beyond, as his famous grandfather once was, right? No doubt some would vote for him on the merits of his grandfather's achievements. I see a grim future for Kurain Village if someone like that is able to climb the ranks.

Apollo:
I wouldn't worry about it. Who in their right mind would vote for him with the way he's campaigning?

Dhurke:
So the more aggressively he campaigns, the less people will want to vote for him? That makes me want to get out there and help him fail.

Apollo:
We turned the doctor's study upside down, but never found the orb.

Dhurke:
Yeah, I didn't expect this to be so hard.

Trucy:
Well, I think it's fun. It's like a big old treasure hunt!

Dhurke:
That orb is the key to Khura'in's future, you know.

Trucy:
Yeah, and our office's future, too!

Apollo:
(She does realize it's not up for sale, right?)

Dhurke:
Ah, the old show-'em-and-see-what-they-say tactic. I used to try that whenever I had nothing else to say.

Apollo:
Who says I have nothing else to say?

Dhurke:
It's written all over your face.

Apollo:
Like you have anything to add right now.

Apollo:
Datz, was what the doctor had really the Founder's Orb?

Datz:
Absolutely positively! The doc was sure of it!

Dhurke:
Really? Because someone from the village is calling the Crystal of Ami Fey. He also claims you were filling the doctor's head with lies.

Datz:
That ain't true! The doc said he was sure it was the real deal. All his fancy research confirmed it was the Founder's Orb.

Apollo:
So then that Paul Atishon character was lying? Imagine that, a politician who lies...

Datz:
I bet he wants the orb all to himself!

Trucy:
Hmm... I wonder who's telling the truth?

Datz:
Well, take a look at this! It proves the doc believed he had the Founder's Orb!

Dhurke:
Let me see that. "I agree to hand over the Founder's Orb to the Defiant Dragons if I will come to no harm." Signed, Dr. Archie Buff.

Datz:
See, I got it all down in writing!

Dhurke:
But Datz, why does it say, "if I will come to no harm" at the end here?

Trucy:
Sounds like he was scared of you.

Apollo:
Datz, did you threaten the doctor in any way?

Datz:
No, ya got it all wrong! It was the doc's friend! HE told the old man us rebels were dangerous. It's his fault the doc thought I might hurt him!

Apollo:
Sounds like the work of that politician. He's really made a mess of things.

Orb Transfer Agreement added to the Court Record.

Dhurke:
What have you done now, Datz?

Datz:
Nothing! I'm innocent, I tell ya! It all started when this dog-faced cop tried to question me! He looked so funny, I started laughing at him. That's when they came after me. But it was hilarious, I tell ya! I mean, a human police dog? How funny is that!

Apollo:
Right... So what happened after that?

Datz:
They caught me hiding in a doghouse. Dang pooch ratted me out! I guess that's what I get for laughing at one of his doggy comrades.

Apollo:
Sounds like the dogs got the last laugh.

Dhurke:
Datz, weren't you cleared of those jailbreak charges? And your capture by Lady Kee'ra deemed unlawful?

Datz:
Yeah, but... The cops here don't seem to like me anyway.

Apollo:
What are the charges this time?

Datz:
Unauthorized entry, or something like that. They think I'm an illegal alien! And I can't prove otherwise ‘cause I lost my passport!

Trucy:
Is there any way they'd let you go?

Datz:
Not without my passport... If only I had it! Dhurke, AJ! You gotta find my passport!

Apollo:
...All right, we'll find it. (One more thing to add to our to-do list. Now, where might Datz's passport be?)

Apollo:
I hate the feeling of being constantly watched.

Dhurke:
Indeed. Considering my current situation, the less I'm seen, the better.

Apollo:
Well, it's not like there's an international arrest warrant out for you.

Dhurke:
True, but I seem to have made quite an international splash with that hijacking stunt. I had to sign a ton of autographs and take a load of selfies before I got to your office.

Apollo:
Wait, what?

Dhurke:
Maybe they thought the hijacking was part of some movie's promotion.

Apollo:
He's completely uninterested in us.

Dhurke:
That suits me fine. It will only complicate things if I'm recognized.

Apollo:
Right... You're known as some sort of scary terrorist who fled from Khura'in. Though, in reality, no one would believe you're the real Dhurke of legend anyway.

Apollo:
Dhurke, why are you holding that mic?

Dhurke:
I get this strange urge to speak whenever there's a microphone before me. We, the Defiant Dragons, shall–!

Apollo:
No, stop! Stop...!!!

Datz:
Why, AJ! You've become a fine lawyer in your own right!

Apollo:
Nah, I still have a lot to learn.

Datz:
Aw, c'mon, don't be so hard on yourself. If I ever went to trial, I'd definitely want you on my side!

Apollo:
Knowing you, you'd probably skip town before the trial even started.

Datz:
The doc agreed in writing to hand the orb over to me, but he kept stalling, like he didn't trust me or something.

Dhurke:
That scary mug of yours no doubt frightened him.

Datz:
Look who's talking!

Trucy:
Honestly, I think you're both about equally scary looking.

Apollo:
(Ouch... Both Dhurke and Datz look like they've been stabbed right in the ego.)

Datz:
Oh, is that for me!?

Apollo:
No, I was just showing it to you.

Datz:
Anything I could use here in the slammer is more than welcome!

Apollo:
Um, Datz, the guard is giving you some serious side eye.

Apollo:
Datz's suitcase... Maybe his passport's in there.

Trucy:
Annggh! It's no good. It's locked tight.

Apollo:
We should've asked him for the key.

Apollo:
What's this? A model helicopter?

Trucy:
Don't you know anything, Apollo? It's a drone! They're all the rage right now. I bet it belongs to the doctor's kid.

Dhurke:
We need to ask them about the orb's whereabouts.

Apollo:
Yeah, but luring out a shut-in isn't going to be easy.

Apollo:
Nothing new here. Let's go look somewhere else.

Apollo:
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!

Sarge:
Don't let me catch you stepping out of line again.

Apollo:
(...Guess I'd better play along and ask what he wants.)

Apollo:
Sarge, sir, do you ever read these books?

Sarge:
Why, of course! Soldiers must have extensive knowledge, as well as fighting prowess. I'm learning all I can each and every day in preparation for the big battle!

Apollo:
The big battle?

Sarge:
Um, you know... for when I go back to school. I'll need to be up to date on every subject. Stuff like... y'know, the latest comics and Hollywood gossip...

Apollo:
Oh, I see... (What about reading, writing and arithmetic?) Well, I'm rooting for you, Sarge!

Sarge:
Th-Thanks. I'll try my best.

Apollo:
This computer could provide some useful information. Drat. It's password protected. Dhurke, you're good at getting into places you're not supposed to.

Dhurke:
Don't look at me. I don't know the first thing about computers.

Sarge:
Ha ha ha ha ha! Leave it to me! A modern day warrior must be well-versed in technology... and have a mean, mean pride! After all, he who controls information, controls the battlefield!

*click clack click clack click clack*

Sarge:
Aaaaand I'm in!

Apollo:
Looks like modern day warriors have mean, mean keyboard skills, too.

Dhurke:
Okay, let's see what we can find.

*click clack click clack click clack*

Dhurke:
Oh, what's this...? An e-mail message? Now this is interesting. It's a research report to whoever asked the doctor to study the orb.

Sarge:
Here, I put the data on this! Take it and use it well, soldier!

E-Mail added to the Court Record.

Apollo:
The doctor's computer. It contains an e-mail detailing the progress of his research.

Dhurke:
I wonder who he prepared the report for.

Apollo:
Are these the doctor's?

Sarge:
Yes, those are Papa's reading glasses. He said he'd been having trouble reading lately. But those glasses seemed to help.

Dhurke:
Reading glasses, eh? I'll just hold on to these.

Apollo:
...Dhurke. Don't tell me you're having trouble reading, too?

Dhurke:
Perish the thought! ...I-I just don't want to leave any stone unturned.

Doctor's Reading Glasses added to the Court Record.

Apollo:
It's a raincoat... Hm...? It's a bit wet, and there's fresh mud on it... That must mean someone wore it recently.

Dhurke:
Indeed. Maybe even as recently as last night.

Apollo:
Sarge, did it rain here last night?

Sarge:
Negative. There wasn't a cloud in the sky.

Apollo:
Hmm... Then how did this raincoat get all muddy and wet?

Sarge:
When I saw it last evening, it looked pretty clean and dry to me.

Apollo:
That means it got like this later at night.

Dhurke:
Good eye, son. This may very well turn out to be a vital clue.

Raincoat added to the Court Record.

EX-TER-MI-NATE. EX-TER-MI-NATE. DES-TROY ALL HU-MANS.

Apollo:
What's this thing's problem...?

Sarge:
It's an OOPArt -- an our-of-place artifact. Papa won it in an online auction.

Apollo:
An online auction?

Sarge:
Yes, he said it's an alien weapon that destroyed an entire ancient civilization.

Apollo:
(...Where do I even start with an explanation like that?)

Apollo:
This urn with "Ami" painted on it looks really old. But I don't think it's going to provide any info we need.

Apollo:
Is your room upstairs, Sarge?

Sarge:
Yes, it's the one at the end of the hall.

Dhurke:
What do you say you come out, so we can enjoy a snack together?

Sarge:
B-But...

Dhurke:
I promise we won't bite!

Sarge:
...............If you insist... ...then I'm not going to talk to you anymore!

Dhurke:
No, wait!

Apollo:
Dhurke, you'd better apologize quick.

Dhurke:
...I'm sorry for pushing.

Sarge:
V-Very well. As long as you don't do it again, I'll let it slide this one time.

Apollo:
It's Datz's suitcase. It's full of survival gear and questionable souvenirs. But we already got his passport, so we can leave it be for now.

Apollo:
It's a shoe cubby. Hmm, these shoes look like they belong to Sarge and his dad. ...Ah, these boots here are a little damp!

Dhurke:
And it looks like there's something inside this one.

Apollo:
Maybe Doctor Buff wore them last night.

Dhurke:
They might lead us to where he hid the orb. Let's take a closer look.

Apollo:
It looks like some kind of glowing moss.

Dhurke:
It could've come from wherever the doctor went last night. Must've gotten in with some of that mud.

Apollo:
It might be worth looking into... ...if it'll help us pinpoint where the doctor hid the orb.

Glowing Moss added to the Court Record.

Apollo:
Um, are you controlling that drone from your room, sir?

Sarge:
Affirmative! But I can see everything you do from here, so... Teeen-HUT, soldier! Wipe that stupid look off your face! I'm going to whip you sheltered peaceniks into shape!

Apollo:
(With what? Your "charming" personality?)

Dhurke:
Look, it's got a camera and speakers, too.

Sarge:
And that's not all, Komandir! With these arms, I can cook and clean, too! Speaking of which... Private Justice! You're on latrine duty! Snap to it, on the double!

Apollo:
...*sigh*... As if I don't see enough of the toilet back at the office.

Sarge's Drone added to the Court Record.

Dhurke:
That thing's pretty handy. Us Defiant Dragons could use one of those.

Sarge:
Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Yes, it is a fine piece of hardware, isn't it? I modified it especially for siege defense!

Apollo:
Siege defense...? You mean how you won't leave your room? AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!

Sarge:
Holing up in a stronghold to defend against an enemy is an age-old military tactic! A timeless strategy still applicable in modern warfare! I hope you're not trying to mock the wisdom of my forefathers!

Apollo:
I-I... I meant no offense. It was just an observation.

Sarge:
So the greenhorn who ain't even discharged a firearm's got something to say, does he?!

Apollo:
S-Sorry, sorry! It won't happen again, sir!

Sarge:
Darn tootin'. Now, state your intentions, soldier.

Apollo:
We had an agreement with your father. He had promised to hand over the Founder's Orb to us.

Sarge:
What?! Papa promised you that?!

Dhurke:
He did. But he died before he could tell us where it's hidden. Now we have no idea where it is.

Sarge:
.................. ...Oh. *sniffle*

Apollo:
Hm?

Sarge:
P-Papa... Why...? Why'd you have to die?

Dhurke:
It was an unfortunate accident. And I'm sorry for your loss.

Apollo:
If it helps at all, I know how you feel, Sergeant Bu-- AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! What'd I do nowww?!

Sarge:
Y-You insignificant maggot! What would an unseasoned rookie like you know about how I feel?! First I lost Mama... and now I've lost Papa!

Apollo:
You lost your mother, too?

Sarge:
She's been gone for some time now. I'm... I'm all alone now. All alone... *sniffle*

Dhurke:
...Sergeant Buff, would you tell us a little more about what happened to your mother?

Sarge:
Mama passed away about six months ago. We were still living in our apartment in the city. Back then, I had yet to engage in my siege defense strategy.

Apollo:
(In other words, something caused him to withdraw from the world.)

Sarge:
...It was arson. It happened so suddenly... and before we knew it, our apartment was a sea of flames. Mama and I were trapped inside. But help never came. So Mama cradled me in her arms... ...kicked out a window... and jumped!

Apollo:
She did what?!

Sarge:
She was like a walkin', talkin' medal of valor, my Mama was. She delivered me safely to terra firma with a perfectly executed PLF. It's a five-point landing technique used by paratroopers to land safely on the ground.

Apollo:
(She sounds like a superhero or something.)

Sarge:
But from that height, she suffered massive injuries in order to protect me. She... She died so that I could live! AHHHHHHHHHHHH! MAMAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!

Apollo:
I... I don't know what to say...

Dhurke:
And the person who started the fire?

Sarge:
He was immediately apprehended. They say he was standing outside laughing while the building burned.

Dhurke:
At least justice was served. I hope that brought you some solace.

Sarge:
I've lost both my parents now. You can't possibly know how I feel! *sniffle* *sob* Mama... Papa...

Apollo:
(Poor kid. It's hard losing both your parents at such a young age. He must really feel alone now.)

Dhurke:
Apollo... I imagine you know what he's going through.

Apollo:
I do?

Dhurke:
The road to recovery begins by talking to someone who's suffered the same hardship. I know you have something that shows you understand.

Apollo:
Sarge, sir. Do you have any idea where the orb might be?

Sarge:
It was here in Papa's study until last night. But he said he was going to go hide it somewhere. He meantioned something about a shady character being after it.

Apollo:
Where do you think he could've hidden it?

Sarge:
Hmm... Somewhere in the village, I'd guess. He said he'd found a suitable hiding place for it.

Apollo:
So, it was here last night. That is, until he went out to hide it somewhere in the village. The only question is where?

Dhurke:
Maybe he left some clue here in his study. Let's search the place again.

Apollo:
(We should also find out more about Dr. Buff. It might steer us toward the hiding place.)

Apollo:
So, Sarge, what was your father like?

Sarge:
Papa was as king as Mama was courageous. His whole reason for moving to the countryside was for me.

Apollo:
What do you mean?

Sarge:
I initiated my siege defense strategy after Mama died. Papawas so worried about me, he moved us here to the countryside. He thought the fresh air, blue skies, and natural surroundings might alter my tactics.

Dhurke:
What a fine father.

Sarge:
He even quit his position at the university to move here.

Apollo:
He did?

Sarge:
He did. He gave up his beloved research position just for me! "A parent must be prepared to sacrifice everything for his child." That's what Papa said!

Dhurke:
...Well, I'm feeling about two inches tall right now.

Sarge:
There's no one in the world I respected more than him. But that just makes his passing all the more devastating. *sniffle, sniffle* Papa, may you continue your beloved research up there with the angels!

Sarge:
What insubordination!

Apollo:
ARRRRRRAGH!

Sarge:
Petty trinkets have no place in Buff's army, soldier! Now drop and give me twenty!

Apollo:
(Sheesh... At least let me show the evidence before you shoot it down...)

Apollo:
Um, sergeant, sir. Would you please take a look at this?

Sarge:
What do we have here?

Apollo:
It's a photo of my father. I wasn't even a year old when he died... in a fire.

Sarge:
What?!

Dhurke:
And like your mother, he died in an arsonist's blaze. But in his final moments, he managed to save his infant son.

Sarge:
P-Private Justice, you've suffered a loss just like mine.

Apollo:
I have... and that's why I know how you feel.

Sarge:
B-But... you still have your mother, don't you?!

Apollo:
No, I lost her, too.

Sarge:
What?!

Apollo:
She disappeared after the fire. I don't know if she's still alive or dead. Heck, I don't even know what she looks like.

Sarge:
Wow...

Dhurke:
Sergeant Buff, his experience is very much like your own. If anyone can understand the sadness in your heart, it's him.

Sarge:
Rrrr... Nnngh... .............................. ATTEEEEEENSHUN!!! I salute you, Comrade Justice! You are no longer a private in the Buff Army! Henceforth, you will be a corporal!

Apollo:
Corporal?

Dhurke:
Congratulations on your promotion, Corporal Justice!

Apollo:
...I'm just glad that seemed to cheer him up a bit.

Sarge:
Now, comrade, let's toast to your new stripes! And call me Sarge! Don't be shy! We're a band of brothers now! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

Dhurke:
Now's our chance, corporal! Ask him about the Founder's Orb.

Apollo:
(Dhurke's getting waaaaay too much of a kick out of this.)

Sarge:
Corporal Justice... you shoulder a bitter past.

Apollo:
You've been through quite a lot yourself, Sarge.

Sarge:
...Corporal, if I may... um...

Apollo:
Yes?

Sarge:
...Well... um... it doesn't have to be that often, but... W-W-Would you mind coming over from time to time?

Apollo:
You want me to visit you?

Sarge:
O-Only if you want to, of course!

Apollo:
...Sure. I'll come by, and I'll even bring along my coworkers, Sarge.

Sarge:
R-Really?! Yaaaaaay! Our band of brothers continues to grow in rank! Ha ha ha ha!

Dhurke:
...Nice work, son. Glad to see you haven't changed one bit.

Apollo:
(What's that supposed to mean?)

Sarge:
What's that?

Apollo:
It's my attorney's badge, sir!

Sarge:
You mean like a medal?! What act of valor earned you such an honor?

Apollo:
I rescued my clients from those who would brand them as guilty, sir!

Sarge:
A heroic act, indeed!

Apollo:
Thank you for your kind words, sir! (This whole "sir" thing is getting real old, real quick.)

Sarge:
Why...? Why did Papa have to fall in battle?

Apollo:
(He's putting on a brave face, but he's still just a child.)

Sarge:
In honor of Papa's heroic sacrifice... let us march on, comrade! To victory!

Apollo:
Huh?! I-I mean, sir! Yes, sir!

Dhurke:
Are you two seriously bent on waging war against that bookcase?

Apollo:
It looks like you can do everything by yourself.

Sarge:
Indeed! I can even cook and build things whenever I want!

Apollo:
So there's really no reason for you to leave your room, huh.

Sarge:
Yes, but there is still one gaping hole in my siege defense. ...Going to the bathroom.

Apollo:
When nature calls, it's best not to fight it.

Sarge:
Yes, all great tacticians will say never wage a battle you have no hope of winning.

Apollo:
Please take a look at this.

Sarge:
Let me ask you something, Corporal Justice! How does that aid you on the battlefield?!

Apollo:
Um, well, if you count the courtroom as a battlefield, it's a fairly useful weapon.

Sarge:
Good answer! A military man must know his weapons inside and out! Keep up the good work, corporal!

Apollo:
S-Sir, yes, sir! (I guess that's all he has to say about that.)

Leads to:
May 16
Kurain Village

Dhurke:
That poor child... How is he going to survive all on his own?

Apollo:
Yeah, it's not like he can go out grocery shopping on his own. We should drop off some food later.

Dhurke:
No, that would only make it worse. We should be encouraging him to come out on his own. Once his food runs out, he'll have to leave the house if he wants to eat.

Apollo:
Talk about your old-school siege tactics. Sounds more like you want to starve him out...

Apollo:
Um...

Dhurke:
Yes? What is it?

Apollo:
............

Dhurke:
............

Apollo:
(Talk about an awkward silence. I have no idea what to say.) ............ (Yeah... I've got nothing.)

Dhurke:
Aw, come on, son! Don't tell me you've got nothing!

Apollo:
When did Paul Atishon have a chance to put up all these election posters?

Old Man:
That fool keeps stickin' 'em on our houses! He's a disgrace to his distinguished heritage!

Apollo:
He's doing this without permission?

Apollo:
A thatched roof... First time I've ever seen one in real life.

Dhurke:
It looks just like the traditional thatched roofs they use In Japan. All we need now are some samurai with topknots, a few ninjas, and a cuddly mascot.

Apollo:
When was the last time you were in Japan?

Apollo:
(A phone booth and a bus stop made of wood. They both look really old. You hardly ever see phone booths in the city anymore.)

Dhurke:
Apollo... what's this glass box for?

Apollo:
(I guess you hardly see them in Khura'in, too.)

Dhurke:
Seeing those mountains really takes me back. I remember when we used to live high in the mountains to escape from the government.

Apollo:
So, you don't live there anymore?

Dhurke:
Nope. I needed a more convenient place to lead the revolution from. But that old mountain hut is still there.

Apollo:
(Man, I miss that hut...)

Dhurke:
What, are you getting homesick, Apollo? You can come on back to Khura'in anytime, you know?

Apollo:
N-No, no, I'm fine. Besides, I've got a lot on my plate here...

Apollo:
There's a big boulder towering into the sky over there. According to the sign, it's called the "Kurain Boulder." It also says that a spirit dwells within it. Hmm... A rock with a spirit in it?

Dhurke:
It's called animism -- the belief that spirits dwell within inanimate objects. They've probably enshrined this boulder as a sacred object. Their tradition of worshipping such objects is similar to our tradition in Khura'in.

Apollo:
I-Interesting... (Who knew Dhurke could make sense every once in a while?)

Leads to:
Apollo:
What do we have here? It looks like an unfinished picture... like something a little kid might paint.

Pearl:
Hee hee. Seeing you present your badge like that... ...reminds me of when I used to investigate cases alongside Mr. Nick.

Apollo:
You used to help Mr. Wright all the time, I hear.

Pearl:
That I did! Doing so helped me expand mu horizons beyond this tiny little village. So please, Mr. Apollo! If there's anything I can help you with, you just let me know!

Apollo:
I will. (What I'd really like is her help with cleaning the office again.)

Apollo:
Pearl, do you have any idea where this moss might grow?

Pearl:
That looks like... Mitama Moss. It grows on Mt. Mitama, and gives off a soft glow in the dark.

Apollo:
Mt. Mitama?

Pearl:
See that mountain over there? That's Mt. Mitama.

Dhurke:
And how would one get there?

Pearl:
You can take a bus from that bus stop over there. ...Um, may I ask why you're so interested in that moss?

Apollo:
Well, Dr. Buff was supposed to give us something. But it seems he hid it somewhere last night.

Pearl:
H-He did? Maybe that's why he, um...

Apollo:
Pearl? Do you know something that might help us?

Pearl:
Um, well...

Apollo:
(Sounds like I'd better find out what she knows.)

Pearl:
Oh, um... Sorry, I wish I could help, but...

Apollo:
No, don't worry about it! I'm sorry I wasted your time like that.

Pearl:
Um... At least let me offer you some tea. I mean, you must be tired from all your investigating.

Pearl:
Oh, no, you don't have to do that. We'll be just fine, thank you. (She's so polite, it's hard NOT to feel rude around her.)

Dhurke:
What a peaceful place. Ahh... Nothing beats mountain air.

Pearl:
Many of the villagers have left for the city, but I just love it here. Blue skies, lush forests, star-filled skies at night, and fireflies in the summer. Plus, the big, beautiful, blue ocean is just beyond that mountain!

Dhurke:
The ocean?! What do you say we go for a swim, son?

Apollo:
...Oh, um... I think I'll pass. (Besides, I can't swim.) ...Um, Pearl? Kurain Village is like, "the home of spirit mediums," right?

Pearl:
Yes, and I'm a part of a long line of mediums.

Apollo:
I've never seen a channeling before, but... ...is it possible to channel the spirit of anyone who's passed away?

Pearl:
No, not just anyone. You must know their face and true name.

Apollo:
Really? You can channel a spirit just by knowing their face and name? That's an amazing ability.

Pearl:
It is, but it can only be learned by those with a gift occurring in certain bloodlines... ...and years of intense training. At present, Mystic Maya and I are the only ones in our village who can channel spirits.

Dhurke:
Looks like spirit mediums are highly valued here, much like they are back in Khura'in.

Pearl:
I heard there used to be many more of us a long time ago...:
...but now, we are in very short supply. Most of the women nowadays don't want to stay; they want the thrill of the big city.

Apollo:
Yeah, well, you guys aren't exactly close to any shopping malls or nightclubs out here. But what about you? Are you NOT interested in things like that?

Pearl:
W-Who, me? Well, I... I wouldn't mind a new outfit or two, and, well... Oh, never mind.

Apollo:
It's okay, Pearl. You are at that age, after all.

Apollo:
Oh! We met this weirdo earlier named Paul Atishon. Do you know anything about him?

Pearl:
Yes, he's been campaigning a lot around here lately. And the noise he's been making has become quite a problem. People are especially upset that he's campaigning at all hours of the night and day.

Dhurke:
Hmm, well... The local police should arrest him for disturbing the peace.

Pearl:
Unfortunately, there's little they can do because the Atishon family is so powerful.

Apollo:
(...Well, isn't HE the proverbial pampered provincial prince.) He seems pretty intent on winning here in Kurain. Is there some special reason why?

Pearl:
I'm not sure, but I have an idea. The spirit mediums of Kurain once held considerable sway in the political world. Judging by his slogan, maybe that's what he's after.

Apollo:
Great, so he's just another politician seeking powerful connections...

Dhurke:
The ability to commune with the dead gives comfort to those anxious about the future. Tiny Khura'in has preserved its independence by the queen's power of spirit channeling. It must play a similar role in this village.

Pearl:
Yes. Even today, many here revere those with spirit medium blood flowing in their veins.

Apollo:
So basically, as Paul Atishon's benefactor goes, so goes the whole village? (Who is this benefactor? Who could hold this much sway over Kurain Village?)

Apollo:
Pearl... Do you have any idea where Dr. Buff might've gone last night?

Pearl:
Umm... Well...

Apollo:
.........

Pearl:
...Uhh, about that... ...All I know is Dr. Buff was somewhere on Mt. Mitama.

Apollo:
...! (My bracelet...! It's reacting! Which means that Pearl is hiding something from me.)

Apollo:
Pearl, you seem anxious around the topic of Mt. Mitama. I could tell because you'd rub your thumb over a splotch of dried paint as you said it.

Pearl:
Oh! U-Um, well...!

Apollo:
That nighttime painting is yours, isn't it?

Pearl:
.........!
...This is so embarrassing. As you saw, I'm not a very good artist. But that picture has nothing to do with Dr. Buff!

Apollo:
I'm not so sure about that. In fact, I'm going to guess that while you were out here painting last night... ...you actually saw the good doctor heading out to Mt. Mitama from the bus stop.

Pearl:
N-No! I-I didn't see anything like that! I swear!

Apollo:
...No, I'm positive you saw the doctor. After all, he's right here in your picture.

Pearl:
Y-You think that's the doctor? I may not be a very good artist, but at least I know how to draw a person!

Apollo:
Okay, if this isn't a person, then what is it?

Pearl:
Er... Th-That's a... a rain spirit!

Apollo:
.........

Pearl:
..................

Apollo:
...Um, and what's a rain spirit doing at a bus stop?

Pearl:
Oh, umm, rain spirits have places to go, too!

Apollo:
........ (This is getting ridiculous.) Sorry, Pearl, but you're not a very good liar. That is Dr. Buff, and this piece of evidence proves it!

Apollo:
This is the raincoat we found in the doctor's study. It's still wet and muddy, so we know that someone wore it last night. Now, let's see how this pattern is the same as the "rain spirit" in your picture?

Pearl:
...Ah!

Apollo:
You didn't see a rain spirit last night. You saw Dr. Buff wearing this raincoat!

Pearl:
Ah!
...I... I'm sorry. I know I'm not supposed to lie, but...

Pearl:
I'm sorry I didn't tell you before, Mr. Apollo, but I did see the doctor last night.

Apollo:
It's all right. Just, please, tell me everything you know.

Pearl:
...Of course. I was painting out here last night... when the doctor came up to the bus stop. He was wearing a raincoat, even though it wasn't raining, and a helmet with a light on it.

Apollo:
Sounds like he was well-prepared for something.

Pearl:
I know. That's why I asked him if he was going off exploring again. He looked startled, like he hadn't noticed me there. And then, he suddenly said... "Please don't tell anyone you saw me here."

Pearl:
Why would he want to silence you like that?

Dhurke:
Something must've happened to spook him. And he didn't want anyone to know where he was going to hide the orb.

Apollo:
But where could he have been going dressed like that?

Pearl:
My best guess is a cave somewhere on Mt. Mitama. I heard there's a cave there where mediums of the Kurain tradition went to train long ago. Legend has it, there are some sort of mystical ruins in there.

Apollo:
Mystical ruins? Sounds like the exact sort of place an archeologist might go.

Apollo:
I wonder what this place was for before it was... well, ruins.

Dhurke:
I'm guessing it was a place for spirit mediums to perform their rites. But earthquakes and the changing landscape eventually buried it.

Apollo:
If you're right, that would mean that it hasn't been used in ages.

Apollo:
What's a plastic bottle doing here?

Dhurke:
There's seaweed stuck to it, which means it probably came from the ocean. Hmm... It's possible this cavern is connected to the sea somehow.

Apollo:
Driftwood? How'd that get in here?

Dhurke:
By drifting on in, I'd assume. The only question is, from where?

Apollo:
So that's the hole we fell through. Doesn't look like we'll be going back that way. We're lucky we survived the fall from way up there.

Dhurke:
Indeed. If that hole hadn't been above the lake, we'd be history. You passed out the moment you hit the water.

Apollo:
Yeah, well, water's not really my thing.

Dhurke:
Hmm, this cavern is solid rock all around. Looks like we either go back through that hole...
...or find some other way out.

Apollo:
Ugh. Why am I always between a rock and a hard place?

Apollo:
It's a big stone altar. One false move, and some god might come and smite us.

Dhurke:
Oh, come on. It's not all doom and gloom.

Apollo:
...I dare you to look at our surroundings and say that again, Dhurke.

Dhurke:
Hah-ha ha ha ha ha! You've got me there, son.

Apollo:
(Dear gods, please smite me now.)

Apollo:
This lake looks really deep. I can't even see the bottom. (A bottomless lake in the depths of a mountain cave system. My blood runs cold at the thought of falling in there.)

Dhurke:
The water... It's salty. This lake may very well lead to the ocean.

Apollo:
Didn't Pearl mention something about the ocean? ...Like how it's on the other side of the mountain? Can't imagine she meant it literally.

Apollo:
These have gotta be the doctor's footprints. They match the bottoms of the boots we saw in his study.

Dhurke:
So he made it all the way down here. Hmm... The water's washed and most of them away, but his footprints are everywhere.

Apollo:
Really? 'Cause these are the only sets I see.

Dhurke:
He must've been looking for something. ...Ah. Those prints... They're coming out of that lake.

Apollo:
Hey, you're right. But that would mean Dr. Buff came walking out of the water.

Apollo:
This box looks pretty new. I'm guessing... the doctor's the one who brought it down here.

Dhurke:
It's no good. It's locked tight.

Apollo:
There's no way to open it?

Dhurke:
Doesn't look like it. There isn't even a keyhole. Which means... there must be a trick to opening it. We'll have to figure it out if we want to see what's inside.

Apollo:
There's a big button here. ...Huh. Nothing happened.

Apollo:
This thing is covered with pictures. And, hey! Each section also rotates!

Dhurke:
Take a look at this, son. See the picture of a dragon battling a tiger? And this green and purple one... ...is of a Khura'inese butterfly and a mitamah.

Apollo:
...I wonder if they're clues for figuring out how to open this box.

Dhurke:
The official story is that the orb was stolen from the Tehm'pul Temple treasure room.

Apollo:
Yeah, I heard about that on the news. They also said your group was behind the theft.

Dhurke:
That's not good... We're probably on an international most-wanted list now. ...Let me ask you something, Apollo: Who do YOU think really stole the orb?

Apollo:
Umm, I really haven't a clue.

Dhurke:
Well, I think it was one of the royals.

Apollo:
Really? Someone from the royal family?

Dhurke:
Yeah, and I've got a pretty good idea which one it was.

Apollo:
(He knows who it is?) Care to share your hunch?

Dhurke:
All I'll say at this point is this: Security is pretty tight, but the royals have unfettered access to the treasure room. Plus, they seem to be turning a blind eye to the orb's loss.

Apollo:
But why would a member of the royal family do that?

Dhurke:
...That, I haven't figured out yet. But whatever the reason, it can't be good. I mean, a Khura'inese royal stealing a national treasure of such religious significance? And then pinning the crime on us, the Defiant Dragons?

Apollo:
Sounds like a conspiracy or something.

Dhurke:
I agree. And if the truth were to come to light, it would be a scandal of epic proportions. To allow a foreign national to study a treasure so sacred that it's off limits to the public... It would be seen as an utter sacrilege to those who truly revere the Holy Mother.

Apollo:
So if this were to go public, support for the Ga'ran regime would weaken.

Dhurke:
But that's not all. This is just a hunch, but I believe there's something even bigger here. Something that would explain why the orb was being studied in the first place. Something that would shake the Kingdom of Khura'in to its very core. And I'm going to find out what.

Apollo:
(.........He's probably right. His intuition is usually spot on.) Dhurke, why are you so bent on revolution, anyway? Is it to reform the legal system in Khura'in?

Dhurke:
There's that. But I'm also doing this for my children... I want to save Nahyuta.

Apollo:
What do you mean?

Dhurke:
...This is for your ears only. It's the other reason why this revolution needs to succeed.

Apollo:
Nahyuta... I never thought that our reunion would take place in a courtroom.

Dhurke:
Oh, so you've run into each other already.

Apollo:
Yeah, but it was like he was a different person. He used to be such a kind, cheerful kid -- always smiling and stuff. But now... He tried to convict Trucy for a crime she didn't even commit. Plus, he kept telling me I had a "putrid mind" and to "let it go, and move on."

Dhurke:
Has it really gotten that bad? It must be Ga'ran's influence. He wasn't like that when he first stepped into the courtroom. Back then, he still had a keen sense of justice.

Dhurke:
That's what he swore to do... but that was also five years ago. He'd been the shining star of the Defiant Dragons, and our greatest hope.

Apollo:
Wait, Nahyuta was a Dragon?

Dhurke:
He was. But these days, he's more like Ga'ran's lapdog.

Apollo:
Talk about a complete about-face. Why would he do that?

Dhurke:
Something must have happened to him. Something that sparked a radical change. Still... I don't think he truly believes in the new path he's taken. It's not conviction that fills his heart; it's resignation and despair.

Apollo:
I-I see...

Dhurke:
...The only thing I know for sure is... Nahyuta is suffering... and he is suffering in silence.

Apollo:
Nahyuta... is suffering...?

Dhurke:
Yes. He knows the rightful state of Khura'in's legal system, but something forces him to bend to Ga'ran's will, and it's tearing him apart.

Apollo:
But it's been five years. Do you really think he even still wants to reform the legal system?

Dhurke:
...As long as he carries what I've taught him in his heart, I do.

Apollo:
"A dragon never yields." ...That's what you always told us.

Dhurke:
That I did. It's a belief I've held since back when I was lawyer. The dragon stands at the pinnacle of the natural world. Nothing and no one can bend its will.

Apollo:
That's why we lawyers must pursue the truth like an unyielding dragon, right? We must fight for truth to the bitter end, no matter what it takes... (Dhurke and Mr. Wright... they have that much in common.)

Dhurke:
That's why I've held onto this badge, even though there are no more lawyers in Khura'in. I believe that one day, our legal system will return to its former glory. And this badge here is a testament to that belief.

Apollo:
...Hmm... I wonder if Nahyuta still believes in what you taught us?

Dhurke:
He does. That much I'm sure of.

Dhurke:
I know that belief is etched deep in his heart. ...I'd bet my life on it. After all, he is my flesh and blood!

Apollo:
............ (This unshakable faith and confidence... It's what draws people to him, whether they like it or not. ...Even people like me.) You know, I remember back when we were kids, Nahyuta used to say with great pride, "I have the blood of the dragon within me."

Dhurke:
Yes, and that's why I want to free him. Free him from the poisonous clutches of the Ga'ran regime.

Apollo:
So that's your other reason for starting a revolution...

Dhurke:
Yes. I need to smack some sense into that boy of mine. I mean, what else are fathers for? Hah-ha ha ha ha ha!

Apollo:
...I... I wouldn't know.)

Apollo:
That was one fancy puzzle box.

Dhurke:
The fact that he chose to use such an elaborate box makes me think that Dr. Buff must've had a rather playful side to him.

Apollo:
I can almost imagine him saying, "Go ahead. Open it if you can."

Dhurke:
The orb is ours at last!

Apollo:
I'm just glad we were able to make what you said in your broadcast a reality.

Dhurke:
Me, too. I didn't want to admit it before, but I was starting to have second thoughts about making such a big, bold move. I kept thinking, "What would happen if we failed to get the orb?"

Apollo:
Just another example of how a bluff can be the starting point in the quest for the truth.

Dhurke:
And what a hard-won truth it was. But I couldn't have done it without you, son.

Apollo:
Hey, maybe I can use this like an oxygen tank! ...Wait what am I thinking?! I need to stay calm and be more rational about this!

Apollo:
I've got it! As long as I hold onto this, I should be able to stay afloat!

Apollo:
This is not good. The water's almost up to the top of the altar. It won't be long before it reaches the roof of the cave.

Apollo:
The puzzle box is still at the base of the altar. It must've been designed to stay put, even at high tide. Wait, that's it! Dr. Buff must've gotten in here from some ocean-side entrance at low tide. That's why his footprints were leading OUT of the lake. So it really DOES connect to the ocean. Not that that helps. I'd drown before I made it out.

Apollo:
Nnrrgh... It's no use! The hole's still too high up! I'll have to find another way -- and quick -- before I drown!

Apollo:
If only that bottle were a little bigger, it'd store that much more air... No, it wouldn't make that much of a difference... I need to stop with these harebrained ideas, and come up with a real way to escape!

Apollo:
The water's almost to the top now. At this rate, I'll run out of breathing room! I'm a goner if I don't find a way out quick!

Apollo:
The water's just high enough for me to reach the hole! I'm saved! All I have to do is go back the way we came! The water might even lift me all the way back up, over that wall of rock! Here goes!

Apollo:
Mr. Wright, why are you serving as Mr. Atishon's lawyer?

Phoenix:
Because he hired me. He needed my help in getting a family heirloom back from Dr. Buff. And it seems he correctly foresaw that something like this might happen.

Atishon:
It's because those shifty insurgents were harassing poor Dr. Buff. So I knew I might need a lawyer if things went south. I figured with a celebrated lawyer like Phoenix Wright, I couldn't go wrong.

Apollo:
Is this what you came back from Khura'in for, Mr. Wright?

Phoenix:
It was just good timing. My work over there just happened to wrap up, so here I am. Plus... Mr. Atishon is a very important client.

Apollo:
(They know each other? But I've never heard Mr. Wright mention his name before.)

Apollo:
Mr. Wright, are you sure this is Mr. Atishon's family heirloom?

Phoenix:
That's my client's assertion. He says it's the Crystal of Ami Fey. Apparently, it's the crystal she once used when channeling spirits.

Apollo:
Who's Ami Fey?

Phoenix:
She brought Khura'inese channeling to Japan, and her descendants brought it here. Her true origins are still rather murky, but what's clear is she is the founder of the Kurain Channeling Technique.

Apollo:
Oh, so she's like the one they call the founder in Khura'in -- the Holy Mother.

Phoenix:
I'd think you would have more pressing things to ask me about.

Apollo:
Y-Yeah... (I'd better ask what I can while I can.)