She could not stop staring. It was simply overwhelming, and mind-boggling to say the least. She could hardly imagine the ramifications of their most recent adventure. And now, set before her and her friends thrones, was the Map that seemed-no, not seemed-had actually grown in diameter. She even measured it to be sure. And Discord was definitely in no condition for a prank like this. But to find out about it in this manner, when her Mark was summoned along with Applejack’s? There were at least several dozen questions that needed answers about the change in size, on top of addressing a friendship problem beforehoof.

“Twi? Twilight? You alright there, sugarcube?”

Erratically shaking herself from her stupor, she regained some composure.

“Sorry, Applejack. I just can’t wrap my head around this new development concerning the Friendship Map.”

“Huh. You ask me, nopony can. I mean, just look how much larger it’s gotten!”

“I know. But now we have to focus on a friendship problem before even attempting to grasp the meaning of this, or even its significance, let alone properly address it!” She trotted nervously around the edge of the Map table, shifting her gaze toward the mares’ Marks hovering over it. “Oh, this is just so much to take in.”

“Then I recon we just focus on the first issue here,” the farm pony offered plainly, yet soothingly. She then turned in the same direction as Twilight to see where the Map called them. “That being said, we’re being sent to the Crystal Empire. Si it ain’t like we don’t have no friends up thataways.”

“You’re right,” the lavender Alicorn nodded, firmly attempting to compose herself, “There’s Cadence, Shining Armor, Starlight Glimmer, Sunburst and Matt Murdock. If anything, they might somehow be connected to the problem. Or, at the very least, help us in finding the problem and addressing it. Also, it would be the perfect opportunity to bring Starlight back here and show her about this expanded cartographic state we're facing. But then there’s also taking Matt’s current predicament into consideration.”

“Twi, you’re still talking gibberish into my ears. Meanin' you’re still mighty nervous.”

“Right, sorry. One step at a time.” Taking a deep breath while waving her hoof, she paused before continuing. “There’s really nothing to fret about. I mean, aside from what Cadence told us about Frank Castle showing up also, that might just be something that could be addressed and resolved afterward. And you said your cousin plans on attending the Crystal Faire, right?”

“Darn tootin’,” was AJ’s vigorous reply, “Braeburn’s roundin’ up the rodeo posse that Equestria’s never seen. Princesses Celestia and Cadence wanted to try sharin’ some of the fun with all ponies during the Faire. Might help in spreading that love from that there Crystal Heart. And Braeburn was all giddy like a fruit bat in the mother cellar of all apple cellars! Got together his rodeo troops like there’s no tomorrow, when word got out. He’s on his way up there now.” Blee’ur. Poof.

Seeing a written message appear in bright blue magic, Twilight received it with her own crimson aura.

“It’s from Starlight,” she noted while unrolling the parchment, “It must be urgent.”

“Bettin’ it’s to do with that Punisher fella.”

But the contents of the letter showed how unprepared Twilight truly was. “Dear Twilight, I’m sorry that you’re getting this news from me instead of Cadence, and that you haven’t received word sooner. But I’m afraid something terrible has happened. At the moment Cadence, Flurry and Sunburst are tending to Shining Armor’s side in the Palace infirmary. Last night, while encountering Frank Castle, your brother was-SHOT!”

Spirits of the Cimarron

Pling-POOF! She rubbed her aching head, while she heard her friend’s steps storm forward with loud clip-clops against the crystal floor.

“Whoa, Nelly,” AJ groaned, as she slowly got back on her four legs. Calling out, she followed briskly, “Twilight! Hold back on the reins there! You just teleported us here using that Map’s magic. Traveling that far’s got to take a toll on you!”

“There’s no time to waste,” her Alicorn friend muttered, still rubbing her head as she trotted, “I need to see how badly wounded Shining is, and find out what progress has been made in locating and apprehending the Pegasus responsible-” Poof. “Cadence!”

“It seems you got Starlight’s message,” the rosy Alicorn smirked tiredly, “Don’t worry, he’s recovering steadily. How’d you get here so quickly?”

“I channeled the magic in the Map that summoned me and Applejack here, which happened just before I got your message, and teleported us here to this exact location, and how’d you know I came, I just-”

“Twilight, breathe,” calmly said Cadence, prompting her lavender sister to be slightly more tensed, “Matt sensed your arrival. He’s with the others now, after coming back from the search. Right now, I need you calm down.”

“I don’t have time to…” she stammered with unease by the situation, “How are you so calm about all this? Why aren’t you letting me see my brother!? How come you’re here trying to talk to me, when we should find out what happened from Matt!? I’d like to give that stallion-man-metamorphosized-male a piece of my mind for putting Shining in danger like that-”

“The square root of pi.”

Automatically she answered, “One-point-seven-seven-two-four-five-four-eight-six-five-four-three-three-eight-one-four. Nng.”

Collapsing her haunches onto the floor, she rubbed her head more profusely, as her old foal sitter and Applejack rested their respective hooves on her back and shoulder.

“That teleportation spell from great distances is tough for any mage,” said Cadence, “Even an Alicorn. It’s no wonder you’re having dizzy spells.”

“I’d say,” said the orange Earth Pony, “Recon you need as much practice as Celestia’s got for that kind of thing. Think the furthest you ever went before was Canterlot.”

“I’m sorry,” groaned Twilight, “You’re right. Both of you. It’s just that…despite everything we’ve been through, I never once expected something like this to happen. But I should have.”

“We ain’t invincible, Twilight. Nopony is. And that Murdock feller’s livin’ proof o’ that.”

After taking multiple deep breaths, and drinking a glass of water from Cadence, Twilight reopened her gaze to her sister. “You said Shining’s in steady recovery?”

“He’s been sleeping,” Cadence nodded, “We haven’t left his side at all, and he’s been fine. And like I said earlier, Matt only just returned from helping Sentry track down Mister Castle. We hadn’t seen him at all last night.”

“You’re sayin’ he’s all worn out from looking all ‘round for that Punisher pony this whole time?”

“Afraid so, Applejack. He said all they could find was a small cave on the eastern ridge, where somepony made camp. A few stolen files were found there, but several more are still missing. Suffice it to say, Frank Castle has gone looking for Horizon, Midnight Sky and Zecora on his own without a trace. Matt’s been blaming himself for what happened since. I thought letting him stay to watch over Flurry and Shining might help calm himself before sleeping. How were your parents?”

“Oh." Twilight lowered her head and groaned further, "I didn't go to see them arrive at the station. They're probably really worried by now. All I did was tell Spike to stay and watch over things 'til we got back. Told him it was urgent, and then left. Though he's probably sure to remember seeing them home. I'll send a brief message to know where we are, for now." Then she looked back up to Cadence, "What did happen?"

“According to Captain Sentry," she answered, "Castle set off explosions to distract the Guard’s away from him, and to everypony that evacuated from the Palace. He then overpowered Sentry, and took a crossbow to Matt. Sentry said Matt tried to warn him, but Shining had already jumped in front of it. From both Flash Sentry’s and Matt’s perspective, Castle was expecting Shining Armor to make that maneuver before firing. Shining had no time to concentrate on a barrier spell, so he acted on instinct in protecting others, as he was trained to do. As a fellow soldier, Castle knew that, and used that to buy some time in his escape.”

“Why, that no-good, sneaky, little, two-timin’, disrespectful horse's gone flyin' off his hinges,” snapped the farm mare, “I ever get my hooves near him, he’ll get the buck of a thousand lifetimes!”

“So,” Twilight spoke, “that’s why he was up all night searching? Why he blames himself? Because Shining took an arrow for him, when there was no need to?”

“That’s partly it,” said Cadence, “But I’m afraid this runs much deeper than that.”

“So you want to take them by the hand now,” said Frank, “Pick them back up when they’re down? Take them to prison, where they’ll come right back out? You just hit them, and they get back up. I hit them, and they stay down!”

“And how do you expect men like Coppersmith will react to that,” Matt asked, “Just cower in fear by that kind of tyranny? The kind of oppression they’re used to from Fisk, and so many others? And those surviving your onslaught, the orphans from your personal vendettas. What about them? They’ll just bring more needless violence and constant suffering for the same reason, even if they don’t succeed in hunting you down. You KILL human beings, Frank! Human beings, just like you and me! Sure they made bad choices, maybe evil, but you came and snuffed out whatever light was left inside of them! You kill, the same way those men killed your family! How’s that make you any better than them?!”

“It’s not about being better! It’s about doing what it takes to get the job done!”

“Yeah, well you’re forgetting one thing.”

“What’s that?”

“Hope. And it’s real, Frank. I've seen it. You just have to stop and look for it.”

“Oh, geez! A load of bull crap, like Santa Clause?”

“An absolute truth about having a choice!”

“What, to go out and make the same crime sprees again? To steal again? To sell weapons and drugs again!? To kill again!?”

“To try! To try and be better, Frank! And if you can’t see that, then there’s something wrong with you!”

“What’d you say to me?” Knowing he hit a nerve, Matt became more aware of the Punisher’s more vicious attacks during their battle.

“You’re unhinged. You can’t tell what justice is, and what’s not. No temperance to tell the right way or the right time to act on something evil. You lack any prudence to consider the consequences of your actions! No fortitude, whatsoever, to strive for the straight and narrow, no matter how bad things get! So I promise, I’ll never stop fighting to take you in! You know why!? Because you’re insane!”

He rubbed his hoof against the medal of Saint Thomas More incessantly. The patron of lawyers was attached to a chain wrapped around his right fetlock, while he pondered over past and present events. It was then he heard a slight whimper.

Matthew made his way to the crib across the chamber, where Shining had been moved. Briskly, though softly, his hooves made it toward the crying’s source. And despite how restless and on edge he has become, he managed to take a deep breath and offer a small grin to the room’s other occupant.

“Hi, Flurry,” he whispered, reaching in for her. “Come here.”

The Alicorn filly whined and moaned a bit more, as he picked her up and held her closely. Her forelegs and wings wrapped around his wide neck, while his chin rested soothingly over her head, careful with her small, yet obtrusive horn.

“Daddy’s sleeping right now, but you want to see him?” He kept his grip on her with one leg, while using the other three to move towards Shining. Simply holding the infant calmed his nerves greatly, while he felt the racing heartbeat and tensed muscles relax slightly from Flurry, who began to feel safer once on the move. Gently placing the foal onto the sheets, opposite of her Dad’s bandaged side, he guided her attention to the sleeping stallion.

“Epffff.” Crawling her way to his face, she placed a small hoof onto his cheek, and another on his muzzle. “Duh-daaaah.”

“That’s right,” he smiled even more widely, “Daddy’s going to be right here, when he wakes up to see you.”

But having her Dad’s head sleepily turn away from the touch suddenly bothered her. Her lips quivered, and great saline drops were building in her eyes. Flurry whimpered once again.

“Hey, hey. It’ll be okay. Come on.” Picking her up, he felt her squirm and reach for Shining with a growing cry. He pulled her in more closely while rocking her, cooing little Flurry Heart away from the bed. “Sh-sh-shh. Hang in there, okay? He’s just asleep still. Everything will be better soon. I promise.”

Despite knowing she could not fully understand, Matt maintained a calm and collected demeanor, being aware that she could sense such from his firm, but gentle grip. He could tell, after being fed and changed just before he came in, that Flurry was only scared, and simply needed care and comfort. In fact, the heavy air of aggression from his latest flashback might have disturbed her. Even if not an Alicorn without enhanced senses, Matt learned how keenly aware small ones can be. As he sat on his haunches, rocking her back and forth, he softly muttered a sweet hymn he recalled from Saint Agnes’.

Take all your hurt and fears, and place them in His care.

Then all your cries and tears He’ll gather up to share.

Know that in your heart, and all around He sees.

Prince of peace is here. Healing ease is near,

Holding you while on His knees.

When hardships blind your sight, and terror strikes you down,

When there’s no sense of light, His spik'd-thorns are His crown.

Know that in your heart is full of hopeful stars.

Prince of peace can hear sorrows, since you’re dear

To Him, as the child you are.

Ask Him to grace His kind, true, giving, loyal heart

That brings sight to the blind, and fills joy. New life sparks.

Know that in your heart grace is always there.

Prince of peace’s kiss covers you with bliss.

Let Him in, His heart so fair.

Placing Flurry’s steadied, sleeping form back into the crib, he sat back down. Silently drifting off, he found his head hanging over the rail to rest also.

Applejack had decided, since Cadence, Starlight and Sunburst went to get some rest themselves, and while Twilight chose to take a turn watching over Flurry Heart, that this was as good a time as any to get some answers. Sure, Twilight was good at asking questions, but the Earth mare thought to have a go at it first because of Shining Armor. She had checked with Cadence about clearance, so the farm pony was able to gain access to the other more guarded areas in the Palace.

Seeing how the Guardsponies had the same white, brown or grey coats, she remembered hearing from her lavender friend how their armor had some spells for that. Something about uniformity, or whatnot. But higher ranking officers did not have that for showing that kind of difference, or something.

She knew that Frank Castle, man-turned-pony had to have gotten a good deal of practice with his new wings to take off and go missing so fast. Since he was a trained soldier for tough and harsh conditions, Applejack thought he could then find some way to adapt pretty, darn good like that. She wondered even what kind of a race would be going on between him and Rainbow Dash.

Passing the two posted guards at the door, she then made her way to the door of the guest room to calmly, and politely knock. Seeing the golden eyes of a red Pegasus, she figured that it was Midnight’s sister who answered.

“Howdy, Miss Daybreak,” she greeted while removing her hat, “Name’s Applejack from Ponyville. Element of Honesty? Just thought I might come over and check on things while being here in the Empire. Everything alright?”

“Fine, thanks,” Daybreak nodded, “It just took a while to keep Cloud Cover and Suncast from getting too scared. So, what can I do for you?”

“Well, actually,” AJ answered, “That’s what I’m coming to check on. See, Twilight and myself were sent here for a friendship problem by our Map o' Harmony. So really, I’m wondering what we can do for you? That is, if there’s anything you feel needs to be settled.”

Huffing with unease, Daybreak said, “Try this whole situation, in general.”

“Well, how’s it sound you start at the beginning,” said the orange mare, finding some leeway, “What’s it been like for you and your family, so far?”

“Well, considering Midnight hasn’t said a word since last night, he’s taking it pretty hard.” After nodding, she let the Pegasus continue after allowed entry. “I mean, it’s not every day you find yourself threatened by and guarded from somepony who thinks it’s worth the trouble coming after you like this. Suncast got really scared. And so did Cloud Cover, but he mostly thinks this is some wild adventure.”

“It’s pretty easy to get spooked after everything I heard happen. What about yourself?”

“Me? I just want things to settle down, for us to figure out how to handle everything else.”

“Twilight’s got her research for Misty Glint’s condition. She’s been working mighty hard to find some type of counter spell, since she got the info from Princess Luna. Always taking time each day to work on it some more. Fact, I don’t rightly recall not hearing her mention it now and then, after getting that Tree Castle.”

“Princess Luna told me how she had been offering a lot of input, since Tirek’s attack. I’m very grateful for their help in waking up Mist, but I’m worried that won’t be enough.”

“Well, seein’ I know Twilight, I got a feeling she’s coming mighty close to figuring somethin’ out.”

“But what about that pony coming for Midnight,” asked Daybreak, “Will he be stopped, if he hasn’t left already? And what could possibly make somepony act this way toward others?”

Seeing how little was told about their current troublemaker, AJ shrugged, “Can’t rightly say I got the answer to all them questions. ‘Cept maybe how he’d lost his own family.”

“What do you mean?”

“From what I heard, he had a wife and couple o' young'uns to call his own at one time. Done got taken from him by a bunch o’ lowlife, connivin’, twisted gangsters. Won’t be surprised if somethin’ got real lose upstairs from watching somethin’ so horrifying as that. Not sure how I’d act if something like that happened to my big brother, li’l sis and Granny. N’ that's including after losing my folks as a filly. But I know I’d have my friends to be there to look out for me. Maybe even keep me from doin’ something I know I’d regret later.”

“Must be from one of those city gangs,” said Daybreak, shaking her head, “I remember my Dad reading in the paper about those crime lords rising in Manehatten, Baltimare and Fillydelphia while growing up. So, he thinks my brother has something to do with that? Some old gang is working for Horizon to steal the Amulet?”

“All I can say for sure is that this guy thinks there might be something he could do about this whole situation. Feelin’ like not enough’s been done 'bout things, same way your brother does. Though I recon he don’t quite realize how much that line of thinkin’ gets others into more hurt and trouble than they already were to begin with. Hopefully he might come ‘round to finding that out, then ask help from friends also.”

After saying such, she thought she would finish by saying, “Maybe you and Midnight can help your brother find that out too. Family's got a way of gettin' to the root o’ things sometimes. No good in not tryin'. Well, best not bother you no more than I did. Thanks for your time, Miss Daybreak. Maybe if I can, I’d like to show what my cousin’s got goin’ on for the Faire.”

“That’d be nice. Not sure how that could work, though. But it’d be great for the kids to explore a little. Hopefully they can get some fun out of the Faire. Thanks for the offer.”

"Don't mention it. Anytime."

After sharing goodbyes, Applejack then left the guarded guest room behind. She strolled down the crystal hallways, as a pair of copper brown eyes followed her movements from a grey, armored Pegasus.

Cadence told her she could simply rest near Shining by simply laying her head down next to him. Of course, considering there was little much she could do as the others were resting, the mare decided to just watch over them all while taking care of whatever tasks that would come up at the time. She was never one to take any job lightly, no matter how small they seem to be. Princess Celestia was certainly the catalyst for her to learn that lesson. So despite knowing there were things that needed to be done throughout the Empire, including the upcoming Crystal Faire, Twilight Sparkle came to recognize very well how important it was to make time for friends and family as much as possible. Especially during moments of severe crisis.

The lavender Alicorn was sitting beside the doorway where she could easily be reached by any staff or guardspony, so as to discuss matters by moving it outside the resting chamber. She could imagine how much even a low exchange in whispers from behind a door might wake up the Crystal Pony resting over the crib. Seeing his steady breathing and stillness prompted her to wonder about the extent of Matt’s vigilance and stamina.

Twilight also could not help but ponder on the amount of anxiety that must be building inside of him, since Frank Castle was still at large. What kind of thoughts and worries were developing and unraveling in his mind and heart? Maybe he thought of how he could have pushed her brother away from him as Castle released that projectile. Considering he opted to stay by Shining until he received treatment from that piercing shaft, instead of pursuing his opponent immediately, was there any fury remaining in him after a nightlong venture in finding Frank?

Having kept her place throughout the morning, and into the afternoon, Twilight chose to have something brought up. As soon as she received a tray of refreshments for both her and Applejack when she arrived, the mare also took up some written request to examine for her brother and sister-in-law. Perhaps the soothing scent of the tea had stimulated the blind stallion’s olfactory functions, for he lifted his head up with a few sniffs of the air.

“Good afternoon,” she warmly offered, “Four hours and thirty-six minutes, seventeen seconds is a considerable amount of rest. Though I was hoping you’d have more.”

Heaving a deep sigh before tilting his head her way, he asked, “How’re you holding up?”

“Better, after I've discussed a few things with Applejack and Cadence. Here.” She levitated a poured cup towards him. “Something to help clear your senses while waking up. Also, I think it’s very helpful in relieving stress.”

He took the floating saucer near him, and offered his thanks before cooling it. She then suggested that they moved out into the hallway for the sake of the others still asleep.

“I liked that lullaby you sang to Flurry as we walked in,” she then continued, as she took a sip from her own, “I guess that voice hasn’t just been used in the courtroom, huh?”

“Took up piano lessons from Sister Clare.” he shrugged back, “She also conducted choir at the local parish. Not so bad once you pick up the right pitch and finger placement from the notes played. And Sister Maggie would come up with a few hymns, herself.”

“That’s…your Mom, right?”

“Always knew her as Sister Maggie growing up. No need to change that right away. Even though she was my legal guardian and caretaker, so was the order that ran the orphanage.”

Despite how he was stating matter-of-factly, the Alicorn could not help but wonder how cold it also sounded. It seemed there were still a few rough patches that needed clearing up between those two.

“Any news yet?” Seeing how her attempt at small talk to further alleviate stress was cut short, maybe even noticed, she shook her head in response.

“What about Rider, Daybreak and the others?”

“Safely kept in the palace still,” she answered softly also, “The little ones have started to calm down, but Midnight Rider has now secluded himself from the rest.”

“Given the circumstances,” said Matt, “He thinks he could do with some quiet and peace of mind, before helping us further.”

“Matt, I-”

“Can’t press him for more information either, unless we want to cause him further distress and refuse to cooperate altogether.”

“I’d like to-”

“Wait a second, Princess,” he cut her off again, “Please, let me finish. So I’m guessing the best way to secure any further leads on Horizon is to let the dust settle here, and be sure to have at least some way of knowing we’re close to arresting Frank. Otherwise, I doubt we can make any further progress. Especially with him on the loose somewhere in Equestria, scourging the earth. It’ll make things much harder for our investigation than they already were. Not unless I look into his whereabouts personally.”

“Are you-?”

“Which is why I’m asking that Storm armor be brought to me now. That way, the Guards from here and Equestria won’t be spread out too thin, allowing them to stay focused on finding Horizon and the others. Not worried too much of taking Castle in.”

“Matt, I may be the acting regent in the Crystal Empire at this time, and yes that also means there’s information I can quickly gather for you, as well as the proper resources to conduct your own search, but I’m not completely sure that’s the right course of action to take.”

“Why not?”

“Well, call it an intuition,” Twlight stammered slightly, gathering her thoughts, “But I doubt he’d do as much damage as you’d expect from him, let alone make any progress all by himself. It’s like you told Shining and Cadence, he doesn’t really view anypony as a threat to him. Yes,” she raised her hoof to stop him from speaking, “he did injure my brother, deliberately I might add, but so far all he’s done is create diversions for him to dig more deeply into this. Now that he’s on the same page as we are, he should know by now that same method won’t work anymore, even if we still can’t catch him. He’d still be struggling to determine any trail to follow as much as we are, and make the only sound conclusion available to him. And that is to keep an eye on any more suspicious movements and activities close by.”

“You’re saying he wouldn’t just run off to who-knows-where?”

“Exactly. I think he’s still in the Crystal Empire, gathering more information. You also told the others how he mentioned breaking into the armory, right?”

“Yeah."

“Which implies more than smuggling weapons, but equipment also. There was an inventory just made that states a full set of armor’s been stolen as well. The centurion kind with enchantments that blend the coat and mane into a solitary color scheme to best unify the ranks.”

“You think he’s figured out the armor’s magical properties?”

“Well if he didn’t before, then he’s sure to have now. I’m having Captain Sentry checking the roster thoroughly again, as we speak. Once we find him, we’ll offer him full pardon and clemency, so long as he gives us his complete and total cooperation from now on.”

“So you’re also saying his tactical prowess will rein in his unstable mentality regarding anyone else’s safety and wellbeing?”

“Like I said,” she shrugged sheepishly, detecting bitterness from that question, “it’s just instincts, right now. But I also believe it’s the most efficient approach by patiently seeing how events unfold. And I should know a thing or two about that. Did I ever tell you about Shining and Cadence’s wedding?”

Seeing how running the discussion towards another tangent released some of the tension between them, Twilight carried on with her reminiscence. For the Crystal stallion seemed to relax when he sat down, and decided to listen patiently. She also took into account that he might have decided to tune his senses everywhere else instead. But at least she could then deduce, with eager satisfaction, that he has taken her words to heart either way.

Whatever it was that made him change his looks obviously did another number on him. Not that he could complain much, considering it helped keep any suspicious onlookers from recognizing him. He knew it was only a matter of time, though. Taking into account that his rival got back this morning from tracking him down, and also when they will start sounding off roll call after finding some armor has gone missing, he had to plan out where to go from here. And quick.

Lucky for him, these guys never said a word to each other, let alone made eye contact. Like a bunch of stiff-necked redcoats at Buckingham Palace. Otherwise, they would have realized their fellow Pegasus guard sounded completely different from the one they were used to having. Still, did not hurt to keep the original meant to change the escort tied and gagged in the nearest janitor closet. Surprised they even had one of those.

At any rate, he considered himself even luckier that not a single custodian came by yet. Good thing he did not pose as one of them instead either, or else he would have had to wait all day in a closet for someone to show up. Not the time for that kind of patience, especially after what he discovered in Rider’s mailbox.

Obviously, his brother and cousin would know nothing about his recent protection detail from Frank. Just a regular letter to those with an unsuspecting eye. What would be mistaken as casual remarks about the weather, traveling, news and health, he was able to decipher what it was really saying. Places looking forward to seeing were places they had been, and vice versa. Dates and times had to correlate to their next intended visit, compared to the amount of time since the last one mentioned, and the date when the letter clearly was not sent.

So now, all he had to do was keep a lookout for any suspecting ponies wanting to approach either Midnight Rider, or Daybreak today. Given how the former decided to stay behind in the diamond castle, he opted the outdoor escort for the rest of the gang, knowing his keen eyes were put to better use that way.

“And this here bein’ my cousin Braeburn, who’s gonna show you the ropes ‘bout this whole rodeo.” Or, so he thought.

“Darn tootin’, cuz,” nodded the tan, vested pony they had approached, “What we got ourselves here are Appleloosa’s finest contestants, aiming to be the wildest, maddest, and downright roughest mustangs on the plains.”

Frank was starting to reconsider not having Daredevil in the loop. He would have had no problem having the guy hang out with these creepy, naïve, easy-going ponies while keeping tabs on Rider inside. But seeing how he was being chased himself, along with Red’s personal determination to bring him in, that option currently did not sit well with Frank either.

While the others started watching the sort of stuff talking horses would do on the rodeo, like trying to buck unwanted passengers the fastest, he kept to his temporary post, observing the presence and behavior of the crowds in general. While the two kids went to follow that tan pony and other little ones and check everything out, something caught the Pegasus’ eye.

From his peripheral, he saw someone in a long, brown cloak facing their general direction. Judging by the relative height and small snout, he surmised it to be female. The dark grey hooves and fur on the snout matched that of the Pegasus mare in those files. Those ponies must have figured that this family would be looked into, but by the looks of things, they did not expect this kind of attention on Daybreak and Rider. The apparent Sky Pegasus incognito was stiff in her movements, clearly unsure of what to do, except to trail the security detail around the pony family. He tapped against the armored shoulder of a pony guard beside him and tilted his head in that direction.

Just then, they heard a voice from behind. “Captain on approach!”

Stomping their hooves into unified attention, Frank witnessed the same Pegasus from last night coming towards them, along with more armored ponies.

“Excellent work so far,” he stated, his face even and plain, “But there’s a slight complication that requires your change of duties immediately. You’ll know why soon.”

“Yes, Captain Sentry,” the guard near him spoke. "But, permission to speak first, sir."

“Granted, Sergeant,” the orange stallion nodded.

“We report spotting a suspicious pony lurking on the curbs nearby our detail. Private Claypigeon here notified a cloaked figure that’s been looking our way and might’ve been following us, also.”

“Is this so, Private?” Seeing the officers shift their attentions toward the fellow Pegasus, Frank plainly nodded.

“What’s wrong, Private,” slyly asked the Sergeant next to him, “Can’t remember your own name, Claypigeon?”

Realizing he had been made much sooner than he expected, and seeing the hooded mare’s skittish departure, he made a mad dash towards her for his response. Pew! In the process, he quickly discarded the helmet and armor to ease his movements. Clack-clang!

“After that Pegasus,” shouted the Captain from behind, “It might be Chrysalis, for all we know!”

Castle kept his ears listening for what other activities were going on in back, while he focused his eyes on the intended target, unaware of who was coming at her. Before she could even turn to see what the raucous was about, her eyes widened at his speeding assault. Wrapping his forelegs around the Pegasus mare, he took to the skies just as fast.

“Hey! Let me go!” He did not have time to even keep Midnight Sky’s struggling form steady, however. Whish-whoo-whoo! Wrapping around his hind legs was some kind of thick wire, with some stick clasping and clicking against his hoof. Before he could turn in recognition, he felt a sudden jolt and pull from the metallic string that sent him hurdling down onto the gleaming, polished pavement. Whack!

Grunting with gritted teeth, Frank struggled back onto his four hooves to face his opponent.

“That’s for Shining Armor! Could’ve taken a little kid’s father from her, and he wasn’t even a crook!”

He caught sight of the twirling stick flying back to its held partner on the cable’s other end, when he saw the golden stallion rear back on hind legs.

“Know you’re ain't a stranger to drastic measures, Red. So don’t come laying down more bull crap on me.”

“Alright,” lowly growled Daredevil, “I’ll show you drastic.”

He split the staff in two, as the Punisher took his own stance. Seeing the captured mare starting to slink away from him, he leapt into action. But before he could even grab a hold of Sky’s tail, the Crystal Pony jumped forward also, throwing a baton. Expecting it, he smacked it away and charged onward. But the momentum Frank lost in deflection could not be regained, as he was tackled and pinned onto the ground. He felt slug after slug rapidly land against his back and wings before rolling over.

It was then he saw a brightening glow come from the road they were on, and seeing gaping and scared ponies gathered around, watching the two. As Castle turned to see Daredevil raise a hoof for the intended brutality sent his way again, a great wave of blue energy made a loud BAM that knocked them both off the road, landing squarely against a nearby wall. POOM!

Dazed and confused, Frank barely made out the blurred details of gold and orange coming up to him. Before losing consciousness, he could have sworn seeing stars flashing in front of his eyes also.

Frank’s voice came back into his memory. “One shot. One chance to stop me from killing Dino Gnucci. Time for that choice you were talking about. Can’t break lose in time, and I’m wearing Kevlar. Can’t take out my knee or shoulder, I’ll just keep going. Got to be the head shot. You don’t shoot, you’ve got a death on your conscience. One you could’ve prevented. You shoot, you’re a killer.”

"What kind of a choice is that…?” He squirmed and struggled, hoping to find some weak point in his steel binds.

“The one I make every time I pull the trigger. The kind I’m going to make, right now.”

“Frank, stop! Oh, God.” Ka-lick.

“That’s the spirit, Red.”

“Frank, PLEASE!” He screamed incessantly, as he vainly pulled against the enraptured chains.

“There’s his car. Now it’s time to test that forgiveness and redemption crap you’re saying.”

“That’s not your call to make, and neither is mine!”

“Getting out, soon.” He looked through the scope to take aim. “A perfect, clear shot.”

“I can, and will take Dino to justice! I promise!”

“I’m going to count. One batch.”

“Damn it, Frank! Don’t make me do this!”

“Two batch.”

“Frank! You shoot, you’ll just keep the cycle going! You’ll tear society apart from the inside out! The one you SWORE to protect!”

“Then pull the trigger.” As he sensed the Punisher set his trigger finger in place, Daredevil raised his own strapped pistol. “Penny and dime.”

“God, forgive me.” BANG!

"...just be grateful the Crystal Heart enacted a protective response to everypony's fear and panic, before anything else could happen. Matt, are you even listening to me?"

Tilting his head back towards Twilight's voice past the cold bars that smelled of rusted iron, he nodded. "So, what happens now?"

"Cadence and Starlight are with Cinch to discuss that," sighed the winged Unicorn, "I have to say, I was hoping my words of patience would resonate more deeply than this."

"And what about him," Matt asked, shifting his countenance toward the cell next to him.

"I'd say you be worryin' about yourself more, right about now," bluntly stated the farm mare, "Ain't like neither of you's going nowhere, anyways."

"I underestimated him once before," he stated flatly, "Don't make that mistake, yourselves."

"I'm still right here, Red," grumbled his neighbor.

"And unless you intend to cooperate with us entirely," Twilight spoke to Frank, "I suggest you make yourself comfortable for a while, even after we help find a way back to your world. I may have forgiven you for shooting my brother, Mister Castle, but that's still a crime against the Empire, itself. You want a full pardon, then start considering your next course of action with us. And believe me, nopony wants to see you out before then."

"And how'd you expect jumping on him like that would make things right as rain, Murdock," asked Applejack, "It ain't bad enough Midnight Sky managed to get away, but you two crazy, riled up mustangs gone and made everypony scared out o' their minds. Not exactly neighborly of you, yourself, don't you think?"

"There's no way you could have possibly been thinking clearly, Matt. Especially given your shared history with him. If you really want to help prevent more calamities from happening that would do more than disturb the peace, then I suggest you make peace with yourself first. Starting with your friend, Mister Castle."

"You might've gone and thought Frank's beyond savin' and redemption, but that ain't no way to treat anypony, or anybody else, am I right? Like with that Sergeant Cole lady you met with him? Don't just think it's too late for someone, 'cause that ain't your call to make. After all, he done did respect you enough to not kill anyone while workin' with you. Knowin' you both be wastin' time fighting each other, and having the same goal for justice and the like. A small step in the right direction sometimes is all you get, but it's always a good start."

"And don't think because he attacked you doesn't entitle you guilt-free of recent events, Mister Castle. Having somepony posing as a Guard, and being pursued by them made the public even more unnerved. Wondering now if anypony else has infiltrated the Crystal Empire. And it may have even let somepony do just that. Somepony far worse than Horizon Rider and Midnight Sky. If you expect any work to be done in stopping these ponies from doing anything else bad, you need to start trusting us, and most especially Matt again, to get through this as peacefully as possible, and with minimal damage."

"Recon he's still got a bone to pick with you there, Frank. Like a hornets nest fallin' on a timberwolf. Hay, if you hadn't gone and taken out that firing mechanical-do-hicky from that gun you gave him, he might've still tried to break free. Even if he couldn't stop you, he'd still have gone and tried to knock some sense into you that rainy night on the roof."

"You both have three days in here, before we come back for your response. Hopefully, you two will make the right one."

Strolling out of the sparse, dungeon hall and into the main Palace, Applejack turned to her friend with a curious look.

"You rightly think them two could even be friends, sugarcube? And not just try?"

"Like you said," Twilight nodded, "They share a mutual goal for justice, and Starlight told me about their respect for one another, despite disagreeing their methods. Also as you mentioned earlier, that small step makes all the difference in making friends."

"You think Murdock even listened to that?"

With a smirk, she answered, "One can only hope."

"And I'm thinkin' he done heard that also." Sharing a snigger, the pair of friends made their way back to Cadence and Starlight Glimmer.

"Did we just sit here and have two talking ponies telling us off?"

"You get used to it," he heard Red huff in amusement.

"Yeah, thanks but no thanks. I think I'll take my chances in here, instead of working together with those happy-go-lucky creeps."

"If that's your call, then no quarrels from me."

It seemed all they were doing was sitting on their haunches and sulking. But Frank grimaced, as a thought had suddenly occurred to him. Something that cowgirl pony had mentioned. He had his back towards Daredevil the night he killed Gnucci. Sure, he heard a click from that pistol he strapped into Red's hand after pulling the trigger, but he had always assumed...

But before he could even look at the blind stallion to ask, he then saw him swiftly swivel his head and ears back and forth like there was no tomorrow. "What's going on, Red?"

"Someone's in the royal chambers," he sharply stated, before leaping to his cell door to shout out, "Guards! Guards! Somebody, please listen! Something's happening upstairs!"

"Like I said. Waiting for crap."

The orange and white Unicorn fell limp from the hypnotic spell that had been cast. Walking over the dizzied pony's form on the floor, the intruder gingerly made a turn first towards the bedridden Prince. Seeing him only stir in his sleep, the pony carried on to the crib.

Upon viewing the small filly that was sound asleep as well, the pony spoke in Midnight's voice with a snide grin. "How nice to personally pay this loving family a visit once more."

His horn glowing lime green, the grey Unicorn levitated the helpless infant with a sickly green sheen from his eyes.

Author's Note

FINALLY! Took me long enough. My apologies for the long wait, and I have no excuse, except having my job taking its toll on me more that I realized. Well, I hope you enjoyed it. Take care 'til the next time, and God Bless.