[Scene] Edgeworth and Maya in "Blind Date"
((This log is the outcome of this thread))
Miles: *the weather is still bracing, though the snow has cleared almost entirely on the Friday after the snowstorm. Miles Edgeworth is dressed in a dark red dress shirt, black jacket, and black slacks - casual for him. It's six o'clock sharp, the time he was set to meet Wright's friend, and he's waiting outside the restaurant, Emerald Square Americana, for her to arrive. He doesn't seem impatient...or nervous in the least*
Miles: *as the time moves along, he draws his pocket watch out, checking the time. There's still no real urgency in his manner, however. He lifts his head and glances around, looking at the faces of each of the passers-by with detached interest*
Maya: *sits nervously in the cab Nick sent her off in, adjusting the front of her dress that shows a little more skin than what she's used to. Fortunately she’s found a simple but cute white bolero to cover herself up better. Her hair is styled differently for the occasion; the usual topknot is missing, and she wears it down much like how Mia used to. She peeks over the driver's shoulder to check the time on the dashboard. It's a little past six...but girls are supposed to be fashionably late, right? --Or, at least, that's what she thinks she remembers hearing somewhere before*
Maya: *she tells the cab driver to circle the block one more time for good measure and he complies. However, unable to put off the inevitable any longer, she swallows the lump in her throat as the taxi finally comes to a halt in front of a snazzy-looking restaurant.*
Miles: *watches the taxi approach and steps forward, taking the initiative to open the taxi door* May I? *he offers a hand to help the woman out*
Maya: *shakily accepts her mystery date’s outstretched hand. How the heck did she ever let Nick talk her into doing this? But unfortunately, it's a little too late to retract now* T-thank you. *she says as politely as she can muster but keeps her eyes to the ground*
Miles: I take it you're the woman I'm meeting here? Sent by Phoenix Wright? *he still holds her hand*
Maya: *a bit flushed, she remains looking down. Though hardly ever the shy type, things are slightly different under the given circumstances.* Y-yes. *slightly raises her glance to the front of the man's red shirt*
Miles: Pleased to meet you. *bows, lifting her hand to his face and brushing his lips gently over the knuckles* My name is Miles Edgeworth. *stands up, releasing her hand and continuing in a businesslike but not harsh tone* He had said you might be running late, so I made our reservations in a time window rather than at a specific time. You've made it well within, so no worries there.
Maya: *her heart skips a beat when her hand is kissed--however, what he’s just said slowly registers* Pleased to--WHAT?! *immediately snaps her gaze up to meet the man's face. Her mouth hangs open, mid sentence* Edgeworth!?
Miles: *quizzically* Please, call me Miles if you w- *suddenly with her face turned directly to his, he gets a shot of nostalgia combined with a staggering recognition. He betrays no shock, merely a mild surprise* ...Maya Fey?
Maya: *sputters* M-Mr. Edgeworth!? *her eyes bulge* W-what are you doing here!? Is this a joke??
Miles: *to his credit, he manages to look not completely flabbergasted, though a vein is pulsing visibly on his forehead as he stares. Evenly but with a hint of tension in his voice* That's possible. Considering the man we're dealing with, at least. I... well. *pauses, not quite sure what to say* I'd been prepared for some sort of foolishness from this situation, but I could never have expected to see you here.
Maya: *has a harder time hiding her surprise as opposed to her far more collected "date"* Nick! He set us up, didn't he?! *blinks* Ohmygosh, Mr. Edgeworth you kissed my hand...! *waves it in front of his face as a reminder*
Miles: He did indeed set us up. In more ways than one. And yes, I did kiss your hand... *he tugs at his sleeve, one then the other. He then clears his throat and his eyelid twitches. There's a long pause and then he gestures towards the building* Shall we?
Maya: *gawks, obviously scandalized* Mr. Edgeworth, you still want to finish this d-date...? *spazzes* N-not that I'm saying I don't want to--it's just that I never expected someone like you to be interested in spending the entire night with me...! *doesn't realize how this could potentially be taken the wrong way* Oh..! You look really nice, by the way! I think this is the first time I've ever seen you without that frilly napkin around your neck.
Miles: *his stiff expression melts slightly and he puts a hand to his neck* Well, I was told this would be an only semi-formal affair and I felt it would be inappropriate. You're looking quite lovely yourself, to be honest. I've never seen you outside of your... traditional clothing. As far as finishing this 'date' is concerned, well... *turns away, towards the restaurant*
Miles: I'm not sure about you, but nothing Wright said to me was strictly a lie. You are still a friend of his from out of town who needs to be shown a good time in the city, aren't you? *turns back* We may as well use the opportunity to catch up.
Maya: *blushes, not accustomed to receiving many compliments from the opposite sex* Thanks. *Suddenly breaks out in to a bright smile for the first time since this whole fiasco started* Nick wasn't lying about you, either! He said you were handsome and a Steel Samurai fan! *follows after him* ...Is it true that you've never eaten a burger before?
Miles: *laughs, pressing his fingers to his forehead* That's a bit of an exaggeration, but it has been a number of years since I have. It's not to my taste, exactly. *offers her his arm* It's a very well-patronized restaurant, if we don't move they may give our reservation away.
Maya: *hesitantly places a hand on his arm, but as they reach the restaurant, an absolutely delectable scent fills her nostrils and she latches on to him excitedly--her nervousness now long forgotten. She looks up at him and beams* Well, we definitely can't let that happen, now can we?
Miles: Of course not. *the two of them enter and are seated very quickly, to the chagrin of those waiting. Edgeworth seems positively smug as they walk by. When they're seated, he opens the menu and gives it a cursory glance - most of the food on the menu is high-class versions of American classics, something he thought a woman of status would enjoy. Maya ought to enjoy it too, he reasons* Tell me, how are you doing these days? I am ashamed to admit that I haven't been keeping up with your comings and goings, as much history as there is between us. How is the life of the Master of the Kurain school suiting you?
Maya: *smiles* Oh, things are great! "Master" is a pretty awesome title, if I say so myself! *enthusiastically opens her menu to see what this fancy place has got to offer. However, she immediately notices something very strange about it and cocks her head in confusion before whispering to the man across from her* Mr. Edgeworth...I think they brought me a busted menu...
Miles: Oh? *sets his down* Mine is perfectly fine, what's the problem?
Maya: *laughs* They totally forgot to write the prices on mine...! How silly is that?
Miles: *smirks* At restaurants like this, they often don't give the price unless it's asked for. You're to assume they're extravagant, no matter what. You shouldn't concern yourself with the tab, regardless.
Maya: *her eyes widen* WOW. Nick has definitely never taken me to any burger joint like this before. *obviously impressed* Do you eat--I mean dine at places like this often?
Miles: *at her self-correction, he smiles* If you mean places that format the menu in this manner, then yes. Although I tend to go to places I've been to enough times that I'm familiar with the prices of everything I tend to order on the menu. *the waitress comes promptly and asks for their drink orders and Edgeworth lifts the wine menu* I'm not sure, Maya, does your religion proscribe alcohol?
Maya: *her face slightly scrunches in thought* Hmm... Nope! *grins* We make our own sake for New Years and all the sisters get totally plastered... It's really the sight to see! *clears her throat, trying to regain composure* Um, I've never tried wine before, though...
Miles: In that case... Let's try a bottle of your 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, then. *sets the wine list aside as the waitress nods and leaves. To Maya,* It pairs well with the kind of meats and cheeses that you're likely to be ordering tonight.
Maya: *this completely goes over her head but she smiles anyway* Oh, right. Of course! *idly plays with the cloth napkin still folded neatly on the table in front of her* So...what have you been up to lately, Mr. Edgeworth? *jokingly* Still making people cry on the witness stand?
Miles: When I can. *is seated straight-backed at the table, though there's a casual dip in his shoulders* The duties of the Chief Prosecutor are fairly time-consuming, but I do have a few special cases assigned to me from time to time. *flatly* Even if most often they are more frustrating than rewarding.
Maya: *nods knowingly* Ahh... Don't stress yourself out too much, now. You'll make Nick worry! And that scruffy detective, too...! *smiles sweetly* Er, I guess I should say former detective.
Miles: *he is looking at her somewhat strangely, actually, though his expression quickly evens out.* Yes, well. He is often as not the source of many of my troubles...! *waves a hand* It's a credit to him, at least, that he's managed to surpass my expectations in nearly every respect as Chief of Police. I admit they were rather low to begin with.
Maya: *laughs* Well, it was pretty funny when I first heard the big news...! At least he doesn't have to worry about any more nasty pay cuts, right? *pauses* Or does he?
Miles: Not from me. Perhaps the police commissioner. *looks disinterestedly off to the side, just as the sommelier comes over with the bottle of wine. He's given a sampling and he rolls it around in the glass, sniffing it, then takes a sip* I'm fine with this. Maya? *he offers her the glass, with at least one more swallow of wine, to sample*
Maya: *carefully takes the glass from him, making sure not to spill any of its contents. Not entirely sure what she's supposed to do, she proceeds to gulp it down* ...... *her eyes slightly bulge as it takes her a second to swallow. She nods vigorously, but does not say anything further*
Miles: *blinks at her, though not in surprise. Perhaps amusement? He turns to the sommelier* We'll take it. *the sample glass is taken and two more are produced and filled and the sommelier leaves them* You know, if Wright had told me it was you, I would have gotten reservations at a slightly more... well suited restaurant. I sense that you may be a bit uncomfortable.
Maya: *her lips are smiling but clearly, her eyes are not... She's still getting over the potency of the wine* I gotta admit, I've never been anywhere like this before...! *her smile turns genuine* But as Master of Kurain, I guess it's about time I start eating like one!
Miles: It's true, you may be treated to a restaurant like this by a... thankful client, I suppose. Best to be more or less used to it. *tilts his head forward, giving her a rather piercing look-over* It has been much too long, hasn't it. I nearly didn't recognize you, you've changed so much. If it's not too presumptuous of me to say, you look more like your sister than ever.
Maya: *looks down at the table cloth, her face suddenly feeling a lot warmer from being studied in such a manner* T-thank you...! *shyly* I'll take that as a compliment.
Miles: Of course it was intended to be. *her behavior seems to surprise him, and in truth he had never quite considered her an adult when he knew her best. She certainly is now, in at least a few respects. He lifts his glass of wine thoughtfully and sips as the waitress comes over to take their orders* Ah, I'd almost forgotten to look. *he lifts the menu and pages through* I suppose it would be appropriate for me to get a hamburger... What do you think?
Maya: *her eyes sparkle* Of course! *turns to the waitress* Make that, two!
Miles: *the waitress takes their orders, some sort of ridiculously overdone type of burger with a long name and a fancy type of sauce, and then parts* Please, Maya, tell me a bit more about your life at Kurain. I hear things from time to time secondhand from Armando, but never anything solid. What, exactly, are your responsibilities?
Maya: *thoughtfully looks up at the ceiling--which happens to be a very expensive-looking one, painted gold* Well…usually my duties are to train the younger spirit mediums, but there's also special clients that come requesting my services... Like, "channel my dead mother or channel our 16th President..." Just the usual stuff, you know?
Miles: *a wry smile* I would rather not imagine what you would look like channeling Abraham Lincoln, but it sounds prestigious enough. *thoughtfully* It's strange enough to remember the channeling you did when you were Wright's assistant. Truthfully, I attempted to ignore it as best I could.
Maya: *laughs* I guess that might have been a bit distracting, huh? *almost teasingly* You haven't seemed to change much at all, Mr. Edgeworth! But, I knew you weren't as scary as you like to appear in the courtroom~!
Miles: *dismissively* Distractions don't exist in the courtroom. Did you really think that, or are you viewing the past in light of subsequent events? *leans back* After all, in light of having met Franziska, I seem hardly as scary as all that.
Maya: Huh… *plays with the hem of her dress distractedly* Well, I just figured that Sis had that effect on people...er, especially males. *looks up* Oh hey, how is Miss von Karma, anyway? Does she still whip people unconscious?
Miles: As often as she can. *amused* It's now my job to keep her in line, and I know better than most what strategies to use... It's worked out well enough, though I don't know what she does to defense attorneys.
Maya: *grins* Lucky for Nick, then, I guess! *solemnly looks down at the table cloth again* ...You must miss facing him in court, huh?
Miles: *draws himself up and looks off defensively* I- *pauses and looks back* ...I do. I'm sure just as much as you miss assisting him. It frustrates me to see him as he is now.
Maya: *simply nods* I know Nick would rather be pointing fingers at you in court instead of playing poker and piano all day... *gloomily* It's not fair...
Miles: He has difficulty admitting it, though it has been a number of years... Too many to continue to dwell on it. *there's a long pause* Still, I feel that if we had mobilized promptly, we could have... *trails off* Tch. The past is past, I suppose.
Maya: *looks up at him, concerned* You don't feel partly responsible, do you? I don't think you should at all...! *holds back a sniffle* If anyone is responsible, it should be me... If only I hadn't gone back to Kurain... *quietly, but with a hint of determination* I would have never let anything like that happen if I was by his side assisting...like how I should’ve been.
Miles: *looks discomfited, and after a moment he gives her a gentle and brief pat on the shoulder* It's no use to look back. In the end the responsibility is his as well as the choices... I'm sure he would be quick to stop you from saying it was your fault.
Maya: *quickly wipes a tear with her finger and forces a smile* Sorry about that, Mr. Edgeworth. I never really talked to anyone about this before. *brightens* But you're absolutely, right! No use looking back... *this is said as if to reassure herself more than him* Looking forward is the way to go!
Miles: *nods* You have your own life and your own responsibilities, ones which you are admirably shouldering by yourself it seems. You've matured quite a lot since we first met. *lifts his glass and waits for her to lift hers* To change.
Maya: *mimics his movement and lifts her glass to his* To change! *as their glasses pleasantly clink together, the waitress carries over a silver platter with their dinner, right on cue. Maya's eyes sparkle with delight at the sight of her gourmet burger. She can hardly contain her excitement* I think I can die with absolutely no regrets now...!
Miles: *smirks* I hope the restaurant is held responsible and not me.
Maya: *buckles forward with laughter...probably finding his joke a lot funnier than she should have. Once again, she wipes tears from her eyes, but this time they are from laughing so hard* You're so funny, Mr. Edgeworth! *casually pushes her knife and fork aside and picks the lavish burger up with her hands--just how any burger should be* Let's eat!
Miles: *is a bit taken aback by her reaction, but in the end he is pleased by it. He watches her attack her meal with gusto and taps his fingers on his cutlery - it's clearly what he would rather be using. But in deference to his 'date,' he does not pick them up, instead lifting his burger with his hands* Cheers. *he says, waiting for her to take her bite first*
Maya: Cheers! *opens her mouth wide to accommodate the overflowing burger. Her taste buds are in for a real treat.* Mmmm.... *munches peacefully and closes her eyes in bliss*
Miles: *the hamburger is, if not as transcendental an experience as it is for Maya, a surprisingly delicious and subtle taste. He puts the burger down and taps at his mouth with the napkin* They did say in the advertisement that it was the ultimate form of the hamburger... I can't say I disagree, as ostentatious as it may sound.
Maya: *Nods with her mouth full. She has never in her life heard anyone describe a hamburger with such fancy words--although, she's got to admit, it's a pretty special burger.* Mmhmm.... *she manages*
Miles: *takes a sip of wine, pleased that it meets the red meat and cheese as well as he had thought it would. Then he goes back to eating, letting a comfortable silence stretch between them*
Maya: *concentrates so hard on her burger that she doesn't even notice the silence. As she finally nears the last few bites, she starts slowing down. She finally takes a moment to look across the table* You picked a really great place! I'll have to save up and bring Pearly here sometime.
Miles: I'm sure that you might be able to convince a client to meet you here, with your status. *he's nearly finished with his meal himself, though he had no hope of attacking it with the gusto that she did*
Maya: *finishes the last of her burger and wipes her mouth with her napkin as daintily as possible--which really isn't saying much* So are we doing anything after dinner? ...To tell you the truth, this is the very first date I've ever been on. *she admits with a slight blush*
Miles: *blinks in surprise* I would never have guessed. *he may be being polite, or he may be being genuine - he decides not to let himself know* I had held tickets at the ballet, but I suspect you may not have any interest in that. I thought I'd release them and we could perhaps see a movie.
Maya: Movie?! *can hardly suppress her squeal* You totally heard about that Diamond Samurai movie that just came out right??
Miles: *stony-faced, but only out of wariness* I believe so.
Maya: I've been dyyyying to see it since I got down here but no one would go...! *excitedly* You're still a Steel Samurai fan, aren't you~?
Miles: ...Well. *he says this under his breath* To some extent. I've gotten rid of many of my memorabilia, but I still do follow the series.
Maya: *looks at him shocked* What! Why in the world would you do anything like that? *shrugs* Well, if you have any spare Steel Samurai Ultra rare cards lying around, I'd be happy to take them off your hands~!
Miles: *chuckles* Well, I am not much of a collector of cards, to be truthful. It was mostly studio memorabilia and official licensed items that I sold. Though I still have an original production costume packed away somewhere. *glances around to make sure no one is within hearing distance*
Maya: *eyes widen, obviously impressed* That is so awesome! *slouches* I told Nick we should’ve snatched a few things from Global Studios while we were there investigating and had the chance, but he was being an old fart about it and said no.
Miles: As well he should have. Thievery itself is reprehensible enough, but thievery for such a reason... *lifts his wine glass to his lips, looking off* Rather shameful, don't you think?
Maya: *pouts and slouches further* Yeah, I guess so. Stealing is bad, blah blah. *jokingly* Still, it was an once in a lifetime opportunity, though! Well, maybe twice....
Miles: *seems amused* I'm not sure that every bit of memorabilia I owned was gotten through the proper channels, but that's hardly unheard of.
Maya: *a light bulb turns on in her head* Say...do you hang out at the Steel Samurai forums? Maybe I've seen you around!
Miles: ...uh. *draws himself up and speaks with all the dignity he can muster* I did, at one point. I rarely visit anymore, now that my work has become so much more time-consuming.
Maya: *visibly disappointed* Aww, I see... Um yeah, I've totally been busy too, so I don't get to go on as much as I like anymore. *this is said in a way that is unclear whether she is being truthful about it or not* But if you ever do, I'm "MysticSteel" on the boards! Just hit me up!
Miles: *in an undertone* I see. I used to post under "Rose Ronin."
Maya: *baffled* ROSE RONIN?! You were the ROSE RONIN?
Miles: *sighs and looks around the restaurant - not nervous, just assessing. The other patrons glance over but seem uninterested. Simply,* Yes.
Maya: *gleefully clasps her hands together* Wow! It's like I'm talking to a celebrity! Your posts were always so thought-provoking and mind-blowing!
Miles: I hadn't realized I was so popular. You have to admit, next to some of the posters on that forum, it doesn't take much to seem interesting.
Maya: *laughs giddily* Good point! You brought so much to the table...the boards haven't been the same since your departure!
Miles: I have never been as interested in the latter series as I was in the original. Once conversations died off... *waves his hand* It wasn't as interesting for me. Although the time I spent clearing up misconceptions about Engarde's case was worthwhile. It was amusing to see participation in his fan threads dip deeper and deeper until only a few die-hards remained. Perhaps those who met him at the gate when he was released...?
Maya: *intrigued* Ohhh right. I heard about that! Unfortunately, I was in the middle of a channeling when he was released, so I missed that whole crazy thing. *smiles* But oh well, I say Steel Samurai is totally better, anyway!
Miles: *a smirk* Agreed. I'd forgotten you were such a fan, actually.
Maya: *dumbfounded* Whaaat? How could you forget, Mr. Edgeworth! *playfully* It's like the biggest thing we have in common~!
Miles: *chukles* Well I'll be sure to remember from now on. In my defense, it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility for you to have lost interest by now.
Maya: *cocks her head in a manner reminiscent of her late sister* Never!
Miles: Tenacious... That's impressive. It's good to see some things don't change.
Maya: *beams, although not entirely sure what "tenacious" means...but it's a cool-sounding word so it must be good!* I agree! *plops her napkin down on her empty plate* Now let's go catch that movie! I would die if we missed it!
Miles: *plucks out his pocket watch* I believe we can make it. *he gestures for and promptly gets the check, and pays it* Let's go, then.
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Maya: *The pair make it to the movie theater just in time to catch the 8 o'clock showing of "The Diamond Samurai: NeoTokyo Wars." It's action-packed eye-candy with over the top CG but not so much substance. An hour and a half later, they emerge back outside, leftover popcorn and candy in hand. Maya feels a little dizzy from all the flashy, seizure-inducing colors, but she seems to have enjoyed it nonetheless. She turns to Edgeworth, her nerves still packed with adrenaline* That was awesome....!
Miles: *he seems to have had the same kind of reaction, though it's harder to tell with him* It... was. I am surprised they brought back such a minor villain. And the final fight scene...! *he trails off, revisiting it in his head*
Maya: *gushes* That was crazy! I always thought Steel Samurai's finishing move was pretty darn cool but Diamond Samurai's "Glass Slicer" dishes out some hefty competition!
Miles: The latest samurai actor was actually a stuntman to begin with, did you know that? It's easy to see he's not used to acting, but I think he has potential.
Maya: *blinks* I had no idea--But that makes perfect sense!
Miles: Thank goodness I didn't have to see that play again. I didn't like it much the first time I saw it. This movie was far preferable. *smirks down at her*
Maya: *gawks up at him, a bit surprised to hear that he'd preferred the loud movie over a classy play * Really?? *ecstatically* Yay! I'm so glad to hear that!
Miles: It was one I saw a few years ago. Terribly melodramatic. *shakes a hand and then checks his watch again* The night is still young, anything else you'd like to do?
Maya: Hmmm... *thinks hard* How about dessert! *teasingly* You do eat ice cream, don't you Mr. Edgeworth?
Miles: At times. I believe there's an ice cream parlour just a couple of blocks away that's open late. *offers her his arm* Shall we?
Maya: *clasps on without any hesitation this time* We shall!
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Miles: *at the ice cream parlour they get ice cream cones and walk to a nearby park* It looks like the snow's not quite melted yet.
Maya: *giggles between licks* I love eating ice cream out in the snow! For some reason it tastes better, plus it doesn't melt all over like during the summertime.
Miles: That's true. *puts his hand in his pocket* Though today it's above freezing, thankfully. *gestures to a nearby bench* Let's have a seat.
Maya: *does just that as a calm silence envelopes them. She blows a few breaths of warm air on her chilly hands* I had lots of fun today! Thank you.
Miles: *leans back slightly* You're welcome. To be quite honest, I think I enjoyed myself more than I would have if I'd spent the evening with someone I'd never met.
Maya: Really? I think so, too. *she looks down, uncharacteristically somber and her ears suddenly feel warm.* Can I ask you for a favor, Mr. Edgeworth?
Miles: A favor? *he inspects the ice cream cone for any drips and finds none* Certainly. What is it?
Maya: *the warmth has spread to her cheeks now* Could you please close your eyes for a quick second! I, um, have to rearrange my dress.
Miles: Oh. I see. Just a moment. *a few cursory licks on his cone and he closes his eyes, putting his free hand over them* Go ahead.
Maya: *smiles briefly at the comically uncharacteristic way he covers his eyes, but her expression soon turns serious. She swallows, her heart beating a mile per minute in her chest as she carefully switches the cone to her other hand and leans in close. She pauses, tightly closing her eyes before planting a delicate kiss on his lips--fortunately, not missing. It only lasts about a second but she can still feel the lingering tingle as she straightens back up*
Miles: *at the touch of her lips, he reflexively removes his hand from his eyes* Maya...?
Maya: *cracks into a huge smile despite her blush* Sorry, Mr. Edgeworth, but you just stole my first kiss...!
Miles: I stole...? *he's at a loss for words* Your first...? *he suddenly feels a bit overwhelmed*
Maya: *laughs as she licks her ice cream, satisfied* I figured it was about time I got rid of that thing. *pauses mid-lick and looks up at him slightly concerned* I-I hope you didn't mind....
Miles: No, not at all. *still looks a tad shell-shocked* Though I don't appreciate being accused of a theft I did not commit. *raises an eyebrow*
Maya: *places a hand over her mouth to muffle a giggle* Oh, right! I guess it's not theft if I'm the one giving it out. *feigns disappointment* Guess I won't be able to sue, after all.
Miles: Hmm. *doesn't say anything for a short while, his brow furrowed in thought* Or... *reaches out and takes her chin in his hand, tilting it up and giving her a gentle, chaste kiss on the mouth* There you are. Sue away.
Maya: *lets out a squeak of surprise and looks up at him wide-eyed. Now she's the one that's at a loss for words* Um...er... *blinks a few times before bursting out into laughter*
Miles: *seems a bit put-out at first, but after a few moments he smiles in response* Not exactly my preferred reaction...
Maya: *her laughter finally subdues and she sighs in contentment* I have so many things to report back to the Sisters at Kurain, now! Um, on second thought, I should probably leave that last bit out...I wouldn't want any of them to get the wrong idea!
Miles: *settles in again, eating his ice cream carefully and meticulously* That sounds wise. How will they react, do you think?
Maya: *suddenly remembers the ice cream in her hand, but it's a little too late. Amidst her laughter she's accidentally tipped it sideways. Now, there's a small pink glob on the front of her white bolero* Crap. Oh well. *she doubts she'll be wearing this ensemble anytime soon again, so she decides to just answer his question* I think they would be excited! It's not often that one of us gets to go out on a date with a boy!
Miles: *looks over at her exclamation and takes a handkerchief out of his pocket and hands it to her* Here you are. That's right, I'd heard there aren't many men in the village.
Maya: Thanks! *gratefully accepts it and dabs at the blotch* Yup...they all seem to find some reason to leave eventually... *holds the soiled hankie up when she's done* Uh--do you want this back...?
Miles: *stays her hand* I'm sure you'll find a use for it. That must be trying. At least Armando doesn't seem to have any plans to leave.
Maya: *feels a bit lucky and nods* Cool! Oh yup, Diego is awesome. It's kinda nice to have a man around to change burnt out light bulbs and stuff, you know? *laughs* Er--not that I'm saying that's the only thing he's good for, of course! He's such a great father to Pearly!
Miles: *mildly* Yes, he seems to be quite dedicated to that. He and Wright are similar in that way.
Maya: *thinks* Huh...you're right. Speaking of which, kinda crazy that Nick is a dad now, huh? *smiles nostalgically* To think just a few years ago he couldn't do anything without my help!
Miles: Yes, it's not something I could have believed had you asked me at that time. It was surprising how quickly it all happened. *jokingly* I spent a bit of time fearing that a small child would present herself at my door and ask me to be her father after the two of them were presented with that same situation.
Maya: *laughs* I know I definitely wouldn't be able to do it! I'm proud of him! *finishes up her ice cream cone before smirking devilishly* You don't have any illegitimate children running around that you don't know about yet, do you? I always had the image that you're quite the ladies man~!
Miles: *gives her an indignant and shocked look, and his ice cream cone slips from his fingers onto his shoe. He gives it barely a glance* Where would you get that idea!? Have you been talking to Gumshoe?
Maya: *is surprised to see him so flustered and watches wide-eyed as the cone lands on his nice, shiny shoes* N-nope. *promptly hands the hankie back to him.* I always thought it was a given? *looks at him slyly but playfully* Does Mister Scruffy Detective know something I don't?
Miles: *leans over and wipes his shoe* Absolutely not. Being a ladies man and being a workaholic tend to be mutually exclusive pursuits, I'm afraid. Even if I did have the time, I would never be fool enough to father an illegitimate child. *tucks the handkerchief away* A trait I'm glad to share with all of my friends. Though I sometimes wonder about Larry.
Maya: *smiles at his seriousness--It's kinda cute but at the same time, reassuring* Got it. *she suddenly remembers something and grabs Edgeworth's wrist, looking for a watch* Oh geez, what time is it? I told Nick he isn't allowed to go to sleep until I get back...!
Miles: *obligingly pulls out his pocketwatch and shows it to her* I can take you back there.
Maya: *studies the nice watch and nods* Cool! I gotta admit, you drive a pretty spiffy car~.
Miles: *stands, brushing off his slacks* Well, thank you very much. I do try to keep it in good shape. I hope you don't mind a bit more walking to get there?
Maya: *stands as well* 'Course not! *hesitates for a moment* I-Is this the same car that they found that dead guy in...? I head about it from Nick...
Miles: *looks as though he has to think for a moment* Hm? Oh, no. I sold that car a few years back and got a replacement.
Maya: *breathes a sigh of relief* Okay, cool! *offers him her arm* Do lead the way, good sir!
Miles: *smirks and takes it* Would you really be that squeamish about riding in a car that a corpse had also taken a ride in? You are a spirit medium, after all...
Maya: *looks up at him mirroring the smirk* A dead spirit and a dead body... Duh, Mr. Edgeworth, there's a difference!
Miles: *begins walking towards the lot he left the car in* I deal far more comfortably with the latter than the former. We make a fine pair, then.
Maya: *her smirk turns into a genuine smile* I concur!
Miles: *the weather is still bracing, though the snow has cleared almost entirely on the Friday after the snowstorm. Miles Edgeworth is dressed in a dark red dress shirt, black jacket, and black slacks - casual for him. It's six o'clock sharp, the time he was set to meet Wright's friend, and he's waiting outside the restaurant, Emerald Square Americana, for her to arrive. He doesn't seem impatient...or nervous in the least*
Miles: *as the time moves along, he draws his pocket watch out, checking the time. There's still no real urgency in his manner, however. He lifts his head and glances around, looking at the faces of each of the passers-by with detached interest*
Maya: *sits nervously in the cab Nick sent her off in, adjusting the front of her dress that shows a little more skin than what she's used to. Fortunately she’s found a simple but cute white bolero to cover herself up better. Her hair is styled differently for the occasion; the usual topknot is missing, and she wears it down much like how Mia used to. She peeks over the driver's shoulder to check the time on the dashboard. It's a little past six...but girls are supposed to be fashionably late, right? --Or, at least, that's what she thinks she remembers hearing somewhere before*
Maya: *she tells the cab driver to circle the block one more time for good measure and he complies. However, unable to put off the inevitable any longer, she swallows the lump in her throat as the taxi finally comes to a halt in front of a snazzy-looking restaurant.*
Miles: *watches the taxi approach and steps forward, taking the initiative to open the taxi door* May I? *he offers a hand to help the woman out*
Maya: *shakily accepts her mystery date’s outstretched hand. How the heck did she ever let Nick talk her into doing this? But unfortunately, it's a little too late to retract now* T-thank you. *she says as politely as she can muster but keeps her eyes to the ground*
Miles: I take it you're the woman I'm meeting here? Sent by Phoenix Wright? *he still holds her hand*
Maya: *a bit flushed, she remains looking down. Though hardly ever the shy type, things are slightly different under the given circumstances.* Y-yes. *slightly raises her glance to the front of the man's red shirt*
Miles: Pleased to meet you. *bows, lifting her hand to his face and brushing his lips gently over the knuckles* My name is Miles Edgeworth. *stands up, releasing her hand and continuing in a businesslike but not harsh tone* He had said you might be running late, so I made our reservations in a time window rather than at a specific time. You've made it well within, so no worries there.
Maya: *her heart skips a beat when her hand is kissed--however, what he’s just said slowly registers* Pleased to--WHAT?! *immediately snaps her gaze up to meet the man's face. Her mouth hangs open, mid sentence* Edgeworth!?
Miles: *quizzically* Please, call me Miles if you w- *suddenly with her face turned directly to his, he gets a shot of nostalgia combined with a staggering recognition. He betrays no shock, merely a mild surprise* ...Maya Fey?
Maya: *sputters* M-Mr. Edgeworth!? *her eyes bulge* W-what are you doing here!? Is this a joke??
Miles: *to his credit, he manages to look not completely flabbergasted, though a vein is pulsing visibly on his forehead as he stares. Evenly but with a hint of tension in his voice* That's possible. Considering the man we're dealing with, at least. I... well. *pauses, not quite sure what to say* I'd been prepared for some sort of foolishness from this situation, but I could never have expected to see you here.
Maya: *has a harder time hiding her surprise as opposed to her far more collected "date"* Nick! He set us up, didn't he?! *blinks* Ohmygosh, Mr. Edgeworth you kissed my hand...! *waves it in front of his face as a reminder*
Miles: He did indeed set us up. In more ways than one. And yes, I did kiss your hand... *he tugs at his sleeve, one then the other. He then clears his throat and his eyelid twitches. There's a long pause and then he gestures towards the building* Shall we?
Maya: *gawks, obviously scandalized* Mr. Edgeworth, you still want to finish this d-date...? *spazzes* N-not that I'm saying I don't want to--it's just that I never expected someone like you to be interested in spending the entire night with me...! *doesn't realize how this could potentially be taken the wrong way* Oh..! You look really nice, by the way! I think this is the first time I've ever seen you without that frilly napkin around your neck.
Miles: *his stiff expression melts slightly and he puts a hand to his neck* Well, I was told this would be an only semi-formal affair and I felt it would be inappropriate. You're looking quite lovely yourself, to be honest. I've never seen you outside of your... traditional clothing. As far as finishing this 'date' is concerned, well... *turns away, towards the restaurant*
Miles: I'm not sure about you, but nothing Wright said to me was strictly a lie. You are still a friend of his from out of town who needs to be shown a good time in the city, aren't you? *turns back* We may as well use the opportunity to catch up.
Maya: *blushes, not accustomed to receiving many compliments from the opposite sex* Thanks. *Suddenly breaks out in to a bright smile for the first time since this whole fiasco started* Nick wasn't lying about you, either! He said you were handsome and a Steel Samurai fan! *follows after him* ...Is it true that you've never eaten a burger before?
Miles: *laughs, pressing his fingers to his forehead* That's a bit of an exaggeration, but it has been a number of years since I have. It's not to my taste, exactly. *offers her his arm* It's a very well-patronized restaurant, if we don't move they may give our reservation away.
Maya: *hesitantly places a hand on his arm, but as they reach the restaurant, an absolutely delectable scent fills her nostrils and she latches on to him excitedly--her nervousness now long forgotten. She looks up at him and beams* Well, we definitely can't let that happen, now can we?
Miles: Of course not. *the two of them enter and are seated very quickly, to the chagrin of those waiting. Edgeworth seems positively smug as they walk by. When they're seated, he opens the menu and gives it a cursory glance - most of the food on the menu is high-class versions of American classics, something he thought a woman of status would enjoy. Maya ought to enjoy it too, he reasons* Tell me, how are you doing these days? I am ashamed to admit that I haven't been keeping up with your comings and goings, as much history as there is between us. How is the life of the Master of the Kurain school suiting you?
Maya: *smiles* Oh, things are great! "Master" is a pretty awesome title, if I say so myself! *enthusiastically opens her menu to see what this fancy place has got to offer. However, she immediately notices something very strange about it and cocks her head in confusion before whispering to the man across from her* Mr. Edgeworth...I think they brought me a busted menu...
Miles: Oh? *sets his down* Mine is perfectly fine, what's the problem?
Maya: *laughs* They totally forgot to write the prices on mine...! How silly is that?
Miles: *smirks* At restaurants like this, they often don't give the price unless it's asked for. You're to assume they're extravagant, no matter what. You shouldn't concern yourself with the tab, regardless.
Maya: *her eyes widen* WOW. Nick has definitely never taken me to any burger joint like this before. *obviously impressed* Do you eat--I mean dine at places like this often?
Miles: *at her self-correction, he smiles* If you mean places that format the menu in this manner, then yes. Although I tend to go to places I've been to enough times that I'm familiar with the prices of everything I tend to order on the menu. *the waitress comes promptly and asks for their drink orders and Edgeworth lifts the wine menu* I'm not sure, Maya, does your religion proscribe alcohol?
Maya: *her face slightly scrunches in thought* Hmm... Nope! *grins* We make our own sake for New Years and all the sisters get totally plastered... It's really the sight to see! *clears her throat, trying to regain composure* Um, I've never tried wine before, though...
Miles: In that case... Let's try a bottle of your 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, then. *sets the wine list aside as the waitress nods and leaves. To Maya,* It pairs well with the kind of meats and cheeses that you're likely to be ordering tonight.
Maya: *this completely goes over her head but she smiles anyway* Oh, right. Of course! *idly plays with the cloth napkin still folded neatly on the table in front of her* So...what have you been up to lately, Mr. Edgeworth? *jokingly* Still making people cry on the witness stand?
Miles: When I can. *is seated straight-backed at the table, though there's a casual dip in his shoulders* The duties of the Chief Prosecutor are fairly time-consuming, but I do have a few special cases assigned to me from time to time. *flatly* Even if most often they are more frustrating than rewarding.
Maya: *nods knowingly* Ahh... Don't stress yourself out too much, now. You'll make Nick worry! And that scruffy detective, too...! *smiles sweetly* Er, I guess I should say former detective.
Miles: *he is looking at her somewhat strangely, actually, though his expression quickly evens out.* Yes, well. He is often as not the source of many of my troubles...! *waves a hand* It's a credit to him, at least, that he's managed to surpass my expectations in nearly every respect as Chief of Police. I admit they were rather low to begin with.
Maya: *laughs* Well, it was pretty funny when I first heard the big news...! At least he doesn't have to worry about any more nasty pay cuts, right? *pauses* Or does he?
Miles: Not from me. Perhaps the police commissioner. *looks disinterestedly off to the side, just as the sommelier comes over with the bottle of wine. He's given a sampling and he rolls it around in the glass, sniffing it, then takes a sip* I'm fine with this. Maya? *he offers her the glass, with at least one more swallow of wine, to sample*
Maya: *carefully takes the glass from him, making sure not to spill any of its contents. Not entirely sure what she's supposed to do, she proceeds to gulp it down* ...... *her eyes slightly bulge as it takes her a second to swallow. She nods vigorously, but does not say anything further*
Miles: *blinks at her, though not in surprise. Perhaps amusement? He turns to the sommelier* We'll take it. *the sample glass is taken and two more are produced and filled and the sommelier leaves them* You know, if Wright had told me it was you, I would have gotten reservations at a slightly more... well suited restaurant. I sense that you may be a bit uncomfortable.
Maya: *her lips are smiling but clearly, her eyes are not... She's still getting over the potency of the wine* I gotta admit, I've never been anywhere like this before...! *her smile turns genuine* But as Master of Kurain, I guess it's about time I start eating like one!
Miles: It's true, you may be treated to a restaurant like this by a... thankful client, I suppose. Best to be more or less used to it. *tilts his head forward, giving her a rather piercing look-over* It has been much too long, hasn't it. I nearly didn't recognize you, you've changed so much. If it's not too presumptuous of me to say, you look more like your sister than ever.
Maya: *looks down at the table cloth, her face suddenly feeling a lot warmer from being studied in such a manner* T-thank you...! *shyly* I'll take that as a compliment.
Miles: Of course it was intended to be. *her behavior seems to surprise him, and in truth he had never quite considered her an adult when he knew her best. She certainly is now, in at least a few respects. He lifts his glass of wine thoughtfully and sips as the waitress comes over to take their orders* Ah, I'd almost forgotten to look. *he lifts the menu and pages through* I suppose it would be appropriate for me to get a hamburger... What do you think?
Maya: *her eyes sparkle* Of course! *turns to the waitress* Make that, two!
Miles: *the waitress takes their orders, some sort of ridiculously overdone type of burger with a long name and a fancy type of sauce, and then parts* Please, Maya, tell me a bit more about your life at Kurain. I hear things from time to time secondhand from Armando, but never anything solid. What, exactly, are your responsibilities?
Maya: *thoughtfully looks up at the ceiling--which happens to be a very expensive-looking one, painted gold* Well…usually my duties are to train the younger spirit mediums, but there's also special clients that come requesting my services... Like, "channel my dead mother or channel our 16th President..." Just the usual stuff, you know?
Miles: *a wry smile* I would rather not imagine what you would look like channeling Abraham Lincoln, but it sounds prestigious enough. *thoughtfully* It's strange enough to remember the channeling you did when you were Wright's assistant. Truthfully, I attempted to ignore it as best I could.
Maya: *laughs* I guess that might have been a bit distracting, huh? *almost teasingly* You haven't seemed to change much at all, Mr. Edgeworth! But, I knew you weren't as scary as you like to appear in the courtroom~!
Miles: *dismissively* Distractions don't exist in the courtroom. Did you really think that, or are you viewing the past in light of subsequent events? *leans back* After all, in light of having met Franziska, I seem hardly as scary as all that.
Maya: Huh… *plays with the hem of her dress distractedly* Well, I just figured that Sis had that effect on people...er, especially males. *looks up* Oh hey, how is Miss von Karma, anyway? Does she still whip people unconscious?
Miles: As often as she can. *amused* It's now my job to keep her in line, and I know better than most what strategies to use... It's worked out well enough, though I don't know what she does to defense attorneys.
Maya: *grins* Lucky for Nick, then, I guess! *solemnly looks down at the table cloth again* ...You must miss facing him in court, huh?
Miles: *draws himself up and looks off defensively* I- *pauses and looks back* ...I do. I'm sure just as much as you miss assisting him. It frustrates me to see him as he is now.
Maya: *simply nods* I know Nick would rather be pointing fingers at you in court instead of playing poker and piano all day... *gloomily* It's not fair...
Miles: He has difficulty admitting it, though it has been a number of years... Too many to continue to dwell on it. *there's a long pause* Still, I feel that if we had mobilized promptly, we could have... *trails off* Tch. The past is past, I suppose.
Maya: *looks up at him, concerned* You don't feel partly responsible, do you? I don't think you should at all...! *holds back a sniffle* If anyone is responsible, it should be me... If only I hadn't gone back to Kurain... *quietly, but with a hint of determination* I would have never let anything like that happen if I was by his side assisting...like how I should’ve been.
Miles: *looks discomfited, and after a moment he gives her a gentle and brief pat on the shoulder* It's no use to look back. In the end the responsibility is his as well as the choices... I'm sure he would be quick to stop you from saying it was your fault.
Maya: *quickly wipes a tear with her finger and forces a smile* Sorry about that, Mr. Edgeworth. I never really talked to anyone about this before. *brightens* But you're absolutely, right! No use looking back... *this is said as if to reassure herself more than him* Looking forward is the way to go!
Miles: *nods* You have your own life and your own responsibilities, ones which you are admirably shouldering by yourself it seems. You've matured quite a lot since we first met. *lifts his glass and waits for her to lift hers* To change.
Maya: *mimics his movement and lifts her glass to his* To change! *as their glasses pleasantly clink together, the waitress carries over a silver platter with their dinner, right on cue. Maya's eyes sparkle with delight at the sight of her gourmet burger. She can hardly contain her excitement* I think I can die with absolutely no regrets now...!
Miles: *smirks* I hope the restaurant is held responsible and not me.
Maya: *buckles forward with laughter...probably finding his joke a lot funnier than she should have. Once again, she wipes tears from her eyes, but this time they are from laughing so hard* You're so funny, Mr. Edgeworth! *casually pushes her knife and fork aside and picks the lavish burger up with her hands--just how any burger should be* Let's eat!
Miles: *is a bit taken aback by her reaction, but in the end he is pleased by it. He watches her attack her meal with gusto and taps his fingers on his cutlery - it's clearly what he would rather be using. But in deference to his 'date,' he does not pick them up, instead lifting his burger with his hands* Cheers. *he says, waiting for her to take her bite first*
Maya: Cheers! *opens her mouth wide to accommodate the overflowing burger. Her taste buds are in for a real treat.* Mmmm.... *munches peacefully and closes her eyes in bliss*
Miles: *the hamburger is, if not as transcendental an experience as it is for Maya, a surprisingly delicious and subtle taste. He puts the burger down and taps at his mouth with the napkin* They did say in the advertisement that it was the ultimate form of the hamburger... I can't say I disagree, as ostentatious as it may sound.
Maya: *Nods with her mouth full. She has never in her life heard anyone describe a hamburger with such fancy words--although, she's got to admit, it's a pretty special burger.* Mmhmm.... *she manages*
Miles: *takes a sip of wine, pleased that it meets the red meat and cheese as well as he had thought it would. Then he goes back to eating, letting a comfortable silence stretch between them*
Maya: *concentrates so hard on her burger that she doesn't even notice the silence. As she finally nears the last few bites, she starts slowing down. She finally takes a moment to look across the table* You picked a really great place! I'll have to save up and bring Pearly here sometime.
Miles: I'm sure that you might be able to convince a client to meet you here, with your status. *he's nearly finished with his meal himself, though he had no hope of attacking it with the gusto that she did*
Maya: *finishes the last of her burger and wipes her mouth with her napkin as daintily as possible--which really isn't saying much* So are we doing anything after dinner? ...To tell you the truth, this is the very first date I've ever been on. *she admits with a slight blush*
Miles: *blinks in surprise* I would never have guessed. *he may be being polite, or he may be being genuine - he decides not to let himself know* I had held tickets at the ballet, but I suspect you may not have any interest in that. I thought I'd release them and we could perhaps see a movie.
Maya: Movie?! *can hardly suppress her squeal* You totally heard about that Diamond Samurai movie that just came out right??
Miles: *stony-faced, but only out of wariness* I believe so.
Maya: I've been dyyyying to see it since I got down here but no one would go...! *excitedly* You're still a Steel Samurai fan, aren't you~?
Miles: ...Well. *he says this under his breath* To some extent. I've gotten rid of many of my memorabilia, but I still do follow the series.
Maya: *looks at him shocked* What! Why in the world would you do anything like that? *shrugs* Well, if you have any spare Steel Samurai Ultra rare cards lying around, I'd be happy to take them off your hands~!
Miles: *chuckles* Well, I am not much of a collector of cards, to be truthful. It was mostly studio memorabilia and official licensed items that I sold. Though I still have an original production costume packed away somewhere. *glances around to make sure no one is within hearing distance*
Maya: *eyes widen, obviously impressed* That is so awesome! *slouches* I told Nick we should’ve snatched a few things from Global Studios while we were there investigating and had the chance, but he was being an old fart about it and said no.
Miles: As well he should have. Thievery itself is reprehensible enough, but thievery for such a reason... *lifts his wine glass to his lips, looking off* Rather shameful, don't you think?
Maya: *pouts and slouches further* Yeah, I guess so. Stealing is bad, blah blah. *jokingly* Still, it was an once in a lifetime opportunity, though! Well, maybe twice....
Miles: *seems amused* I'm not sure that every bit of memorabilia I owned was gotten through the proper channels, but that's hardly unheard of.
Maya: *a light bulb turns on in her head* Say...do you hang out at the Steel Samurai forums? Maybe I've seen you around!
Miles: ...uh. *draws himself up and speaks with all the dignity he can muster* I did, at one point. I rarely visit anymore, now that my work has become so much more time-consuming.
Maya: *visibly disappointed* Aww, I see... Um yeah, I've totally been busy too, so I don't get to go on as much as I like anymore. *this is said in a way that is unclear whether she is being truthful about it or not* But if you ever do, I'm "MysticSteel" on the boards! Just hit me up!
Miles: *in an undertone* I see. I used to post under "Rose Ronin."
Maya: *baffled* ROSE RONIN?! You were the ROSE RONIN?
Miles: *sighs and looks around the restaurant - not nervous, just assessing. The other patrons glance over but seem uninterested. Simply,* Yes.
Maya: *gleefully clasps her hands together* Wow! It's like I'm talking to a celebrity! Your posts were always so thought-provoking and mind-blowing!
Miles: I hadn't realized I was so popular. You have to admit, next to some of the posters on that forum, it doesn't take much to seem interesting.
Maya: *laughs giddily* Good point! You brought so much to the table...the boards haven't been the same since your departure!
Miles: I have never been as interested in the latter series as I was in the original. Once conversations died off... *waves his hand* It wasn't as interesting for me. Although the time I spent clearing up misconceptions about Engarde's case was worthwhile. It was amusing to see participation in his fan threads dip deeper and deeper until only a few die-hards remained. Perhaps those who met him at the gate when he was released...?
Maya: *intrigued* Ohhh right. I heard about that! Unfortunately, I was in the middle of a channeling when he was released, so I missed that whole crazy thing. *smiles* But oh well, I say Steel Samurai is totally better, anyway!
Miles: *a smirk* Agreed. I'd forgotten you were such a fan, actually.
Maya: *dumbfounded* Whaaat? How could you forget, Mr. Edgeworth! *playfully* It's like the biggest thing we have in common~!
Miles: *chukles* Well I'll be sure to remember from now on. In my defense, it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility for you to have lost interest by now.
Maya: *cocks her head in a manner reminiscent of her late sister* Never!
Miles: Tenacious... That's impressive. It's good to see some things don't change.
Maya: *beams, although not entirely sure what "tenacious" means...but it's a cool-sounding word so it must be good!* I agree! *plops her napkin down on her empty plate* Now let's go catch that movie! I would die if we missed it!
Miles: *plucks out his pocket watch* I believe we can make it. *he gestures for and promptly gets the check, and pays it* Let's go, then.
<3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Maya: *The pair make it to the movie theater just in time to catch the 8 o'clock showing of "The Diamond Samurai: NeoTokyo Wars." It's action-packed eye-candy with over the top CG but not so much substance. An hour and a half later, they emerge back outside, leftover popcorn and candy in hand. Maya feels a little dizzy from all the flashy, seizure-inducing colors, but she seems to have enjoyed it nonetheless. She turns to Edgeworth, her nerves still packed with adrenaline* That was awesome....!
Miles: *he seems to have had the same kind of reaction, though it's harder to tell with him* It... was. I am surprised they brought back such a minor villain. And the final fight scene...! *he trails off, revisiting it in his head*
Maya: *gushes* That was crazy! I always thought Steel Samurai's finishing move was pretty darn cool but Diamond Samurai's "Glass Slicer" dishes out some hefty competition!
Miles: The latest samurai actor was actually a stuntman to begin with, did you know that? It's easy to see he's not used to acting, but I think he has potential.
Maya: *blinks* I had no idea--But that makes perfect sense!
Miles: Thank goodness I didn't have to see that play again. I didn't like it much the first time I saw it. This movie was far preferable. *smirks down at her*
Maya: *gawks up at him, a bit surprised to hear that he'd preferred the loud movie over a classy play * Really?? *ecstatically* Yay! I'm so glad to hear that!
Miles: It was one I saw a few years ago. Terribly melodramatic. *shakes a hand and then checks his watch again* The night is still young, anything else you'd like to do?
Maya: Hmmm... *thinks hard* How about dessert! *teasingly* You do eat ice cream, don't you Mr. Edgeworth?
Miles: At times. I believe there's an ice cream parlour just a couple of blocks away that's open late. *offers her his arm* Shall we?
Maya: *clasps on without any hesitation this time* We shall!
<3<3<3<3<3
Miles: *at the ice cream parlour they get ice cream cones and walk to a nearby park* It looks like the snow's not quite melted yet.
Maya: *giggles between licks* I love eating ice cream out in the snow! For some reason it tastes better, plus it doesn't melt all over like during the summertime.
Miles: That's true. *puts his hand in his pocket* Though today it's above freezing, thankfully. *gestures to a nearby bench* Let's have a seat.
Maya: *does just that as a calm silence envelopes them. She blows a few breaths of warm air on her chilly hands* I had lots of fun today! Thank you.
Miles: *leans back slightly* You're welcome. To be quite honest, I think I enjoyed myself more than I would have if I'd spent the evening with someone I'd never met.
Maya: Really? I think so, too. *she looks down, uncharacteristically somber and her ears suddenly feel warm.* Can I ask you for a favor, Mr. Edgeworth?
Miles: A favor? *he inspects the ice cream cone for any drips and finds none* Certainly. What is it?
Maya: *the warmth has spread to her cheeks now* Could you please close your eyes for a quick second! I, um, have to rearrange my dress.
Miles: Oh. I see. Just a moment. *a few cursory licks on his cone and he closes his eyes, putting his free hand over them* Go ahead.
Maya: *smiles briefly at the comically uncharacteristic way he covers his eyes, but her expression soon turns serious. She swallows, her heart beating a mile per minute in her chest as she carefully switches the cone to her other hand and leans in close. She pauses, tightly closing her eyes before planting a delicate kiss on his lips--fortunately, not missing. It only lasts about a second but she can still feel the lingering tingle as she straightens back up*
Miles: *at the touch of her lips, he reflexively removes his hand from his eyes* Maya...?
Maya: *cracks into a huge smile despite her blush* Sorry, Mr. Edgeworth, but you just stole my first kiss...!
Miles: I stole...? *he's at a loss for words* Your first...? *he suddenly feels a bit overwhelmed*
Maya: *laughs as she licks her ice cream, satisfied* I figured it was about time I got rid of that thing. *pauses mid-lick and looks up at him slightly concerned* I-I hope you didn't mind....
Miles: No, not at all. *still looks a tad shell-shocked* Though I don't appreciate being accused of a theft I did not commit. *raises an eyebrow*
Maya: *places a hand over her mouth to muffle a giggle* Oh, right! I guess it's not theft if I'm the one giving it out. *feigns disappointment* Guess I won't be able to sue, after all.
Miles: Hmm. *doesn't say anything for a short while, his brow furrowed in thought* Or... *reaches out and takes her chin in his hand, tilting it up and giving her a gentle, chaste kiss on the mouth* There you are. Sue away.
Maya: *lets out a squeak of surprise and looks up at him wide-eyed. Now she's the one that's at a loss for words* Um...er... *blinks a few times before bursting out into laughter*
Miles: *seems a bit put-out at first, but after a few moments he smiles in response* Not exactly my preferred reaction...
Maya: *her laughter finally subdues and she sighs in contentment* I have so many things to report back to the Sisters at Kurain, now! Um, on second thought, I should probably leave that last bit out...I wouldn't want any of them to get the wrong idea!
Miles: *settles in again, eating his ice cream carefully and meticulously* That sounds wise. How will they react, do you think?
Maya: *suddenly remembers the ice cream in her hand, but it's a little too late. Amidst her laughter she's accidentally tipped it sideways. Now, there's a small pink glob on the front of her white bolero* Crap. Oh well. *she doubts she'll be wearing this ensemble anytime soon again, so she decides to just answer his question* I think they would be excited! It's not often that one of us gets to go out on a date with a boy!
Miles: *looks over at her exclamation and takes a handkerchief out of his pocket and hands it to her* Here you are. That's right, I'd heard there aren't many men in the village.
Maya: Thanks! *gratefully accepts it and dabs at the blotch* Yup...they all seem to find some reason to leave eventually... *holds the soiled hankie up when she's done* Uh--do you want this back...?
Miles: *stays her hand* I'm sure you'll find a use for it. That must be trying. At least Armando doesn't seem to have any plans to leave.
Maya: *feels a bit lucky and nods* Cool! Oh yup, Diego is awesome. It's kinda nice to have a man around to change burnt out light bulbs and stuff, you know? *laughs* Er--not that I'm saying that's the only thing he's good for, of course! He's such a great father to Pearly!
Miles: *mildly* Yes, he seems to be quite dedicated to that. He and Wright are similar in that way.
Maya: *thinks* Huh...you're right. Speaking of which, kinda crazy that Nick is a dad now, huh? *smiles nostalgically* To think just a few years ago he couldn't do anything without my help!
Miles: Yes, it's not something I could have believed had you asked me at that time. It was surprising how quickly it all happened. *jokingly* I spent a bit of time fearing that a small child would present herself at my door and ask me to be her father after the two of them were presented with that same situation.
Maya: *laughs* I know I definitely wouldn't be able to do it! I'm proud of him! *finishes up her ice cream cone before smirking devilishly* You don't have any illegitimate children running around that you don't know about yet, do you? I always had the image that you're quite the ladies man~!
Miles: *gives her an indignant and shocked look, and his ice cream cone slips from his fingers onto his shoe. He gives it barely a glance* Where would you get that idea!? Have you been talking to Gumshoe?
Maya: *is surprised to see him so flustered and watches wide-eyed as the cone lands on his nice, shiny shoes* N-nope. *promptly hands the hankie back to him.* I always thought it was a given? *looks at him slyly but playfully* Does Mister Scruffy Detective know something I don't?
Miles: *leans over and wipes his shoe* Absolutely not. Being a ladies man and being a workaholic tend to be mutually exclusive pursuits, I'm afraid. Even if I did have the time, I would never be fool enough to father an illegitimate child. *tucks the handkerchief away* A trait I'm glad to share with all of my friends. Though I sometimes wonder about Larry.
Maya: *smiles at his seriousness--It's kinda cute but at the same time, reassuring* Got it. *she suddenly remembers something and grabs Edgeworth's wrist, looking for a watch* Oh geez, what time is it? I told Nick he isn't allowed to go to sleep until I get back...!
Miles: *obligingly pulls out his pocketwatch and shows it to her* I can take you back there.
Maya: *studies the nice watch and nods* Cool! I gotta admit, you drive a pretty spiffy car~.
Miles: *stands, brushing off his slacks* Well, thank you very much. I do try to keep it in good shape. I hope you don't mind a bit more walking to get there?
Maya: *stands as well* 'Course not! *hesitates for a moment* I-Is this the same car that they found that dead guy in...? I head about it from Nick...
Miles: *looks as though he has to think for a moment* Hm? Oh, no. I sold that car a few years back and got a replacement.
Maya: *breathes a sigh of relief* Okay, cool! *offers him her arm* Do lead the way, good sir!
Miles: *smirks and takes it* Would you really be that squeamish about riding in a car that a corpse had also taken a ride in? You are a spirit medium, after all...
Maya: *looks up at him mirroring the smirk* A dead spirit and a dead body... Duh, Mr. Edgeworth, there's a difference!
Miles: *begins walking towards the lot he left the car in* I deal far more comfortably with the latter than the former. We make a fine pair, then.
Maya: *her smirk turns into a genuine smile* I concur!