Friendship by Fire

His helmet off, and staff resting on the crystal floor before his hooves, the blind stallion sat quietly while keeping a sidelong ear towards the conference held around him in the throne room.

"What are you saying," the gray Unicorn asked.

"It's so simple," answered the lavender Princess, "At the beginning, when Misty Glint lost his inert magic from Tirek, he had to reestablish a bond with all those closest to him, much like how my friends and I defeated Tirek. When he got his magic back, that's all Glint needed to fully regain consciousness. His friends and family, all together with him, sharing the same dream to reignite the spark inside of him. Surely, that will be more than enough to wake him up. I'm just sorry I hadn't thought of it sooner, Mister Rider."

"Don't be so hard on yourself, Twilie," said Shining Armor, standing beside his wife and daughter while wearing a sling, "So much has been happening since then, and recently, that you couldn't have done more than you already did."

"But the answer was so clear," his sister retorted, "Right after Luna shared the dream realm for the entire town of Ponyville while facing the Tantabus."

"As Luna told me once," Cadence spoke, "Your memories and train of thought drift and wander between the two realms, often to the point of forgetting. So, at least the thought has occurred to you both now."

"But what does that mean for us, exactly," Midnight persisted.

"It means that you, your sister and her family can go back to Canterlot, and start the process of rebuilding that bond with each other," Starlight Glimmer beamed, to which Applejack continued.

"All's we got to do is get Horizon and Midnight Sky to come with us nicely in helping y'all getting what you really wanted."

"But it's not that simple, is it?" The doubt and exasperation of receiving this news was more than detected in Rider's voice. "You still don't know where to find them. And even if you did, how do you expect to talk to Horizon when he's got that...that...thing around his neck, turning him into some kind of world-sucking tyrant?"

"That would be the challenge," answered the Crystal Princess calmly, as her filly stirred briefly in her bassinet, "But we might have a way of reaching to your cousin, Sky, who will undoubtedly notice the changes in your brother. Maybe she help us find a way of reaching out to him. Tell him there's something better offered than the power he possesses."

"But how would that stop him from wearing the Amulet," Sunburst joined in, "I mean, from what I've heard of Starlight's friend Trixie, only something that looked more powerful convinced her to take it off. What if the Amulet darkened him to the point of thinking what we have to offer isn't enough?"

"Wait," Starlight spoke, "Who told you about that?"

"I...I don't know," Twilight stammered, for she was stumped once again. "He probably won't be fooled the same way, then. And he might even start using other ponies like Sky and Zecora as leverage if all four Alicorns confronted him. We don't want to take drastic measures on him like that, but I'm not sure how to avoid it."

"Well," huffed Applejack, "that sure makes for a tough wrestl'n if I ever saw one."

"What if that's not the only option?" All eyes turned from their sockets with a sound only he could hear, while the stillness of the air indicated he had caught their breaths by finally speaking. "Supposing that he doesn't need to be awake for it to be removed, much less by his own volition. We could find a much subtler way of immobilizing him, and when he's unconscious, we can take off the Amulet for him. And in doing so, helping him take that first step in helping Mister Glint right away."

"That," Twilight began, gathering her thoughts, "that does sound feasible. Very little is known about the Alicorn Amulet, or at least recorded, but it's probable that could work."

"So, what now," puffed Midnight, "Bring us all into Canterlot, lure my brother in to capture him, or fight him, or even...? I-I mean, what can you even promise that you haven't already?"

"You won't go to Canterlot," stated Twilight, "At least, not yet. And on that note, neither is Daredevil."

"You-You're going to make me stay here, with him?" From the rising pulse, pitch and smell of sweat dropping from his forehead, Midnight Rider could not have been more clear.

"Not here," answered Cadence, "Ponyville."

"I'm sorry," said Matt with a squint.

"Until further notice," she continued, "Councilmare Cinch has agreed that so long as you are confined to a more secure location for a certain amount of time will you be allowed back into the Empire."

"A greatly exaggerated reaction from her, we know," said Shining, "Especially after everything you've done for us, and been through. But it's the only compromise we could reach with her. She's only convinced that your presence here is nothing but a threat to everypony's safety."

"Though she might have a point," he shrugged back.

"You won't be allowed to leave the walls of my castle until then, I'm afraid," sullenly added Twilight's voice, "But I do have something else in mind. Hopefully it'll remedy that, to some degree."

He tilted his head and turned his ears a couple of times to read everyone else's expressions. From Twilight Sparkle, Starlight Glimmer, Cadence and Shining Armor, he could tell they were regretting this course of action, and even more anxious to know his response. Yes, he freely returned to the Empire with them, despite breaking out of their temporary custody. And he technically had to worry about no longer, after he willingly served the rest of his time for disturbing the peace, and gained clemency for helping to rescue Shining and Flurry. Nor did he need to remain in their jurisdiction to begin with. Cinch would not need to press charges, so long as he left to pick up where Frank Castle left off, and then some. But the gritted teeth from Rider's direction reminded him of how that turned out before. And hearing the yawning and ruffling of feathers from the basket, he knew the best way to handle this. "I'm all ears."

Thirst for Righteousness
~ Part I ~

PLING! "Whoa!"

"I've got you. Easy." Helping the male individual back up, Matt Murdock began to reacquaint himself with his latest form, as well as scan his new surroundings. He first got his bearings by knowing the horse statue from where they came was standing behind him. Next was the familiar smell of pavement returning to him.

"Remind me again, why do I have to come to this place with you?"

"So as to avoid any conflicts of interest with your brother and cousin until the others are ready," bluntly answered Matt. "But rest assured, Mister Rider, I won't even try to stop you from going back. Just enjoy Princess Twilight's Palace as long as you like."

"And always under their watchful eye? Not a chance. Especially with the farmer, and that Wonderbolt. Not to mention that owl looking at me our first night there."

"In that case, feel free to roam about the area." With that, the blind man straightened his neck tie and suit, then swung his cane before him as he strolled towards the steps he sensed were leading toward the tall building before him.

"Uh, no way," called out Rider, as he hurried after, "I'd like to keep my eyes on you this time. Can't trust a stallion who just terrorizes ponies at night. And day."

"You assaulted an innocent passerby, regardless of position or status."

"Oh, and your response was to break my leg for a confession?"

"Yeah," scoffed Matthew with a grin, halting to face him. "And be sure to count your blessings Frank Castle didn't..."

Biting his lower lip, then taking a sharp sniff through his nose, he pressed on with a stiffened neck. "Let's just meet with Princess Sparkle's friend."

"Okay." Warily, Midnight Rider strolled beside him. Just then a spontaneous clanging of a bell shot its way toward them, followed by the rushing of teenagers out the doors nearly at once. "About that, how will we know if we found her?"

All the teens seemed to be moving in their own distinct directions. Some in groups, others heading on their own. Everything on the surface did seem to make for a usual end of classes for the day, and to start the weekend like he would remember at that age. However, what triggered something in his mind was how everyone traversed, talked and behaved. It was far, too usual. Mechanical. Almost as though they were set on default, like an analyst would describe. Nothing to indicate a sense of relief, ecstatic urgency to leave, or even that of exhaustion. There was no distinct way of knowing a teenager's internal state. Hardly any degree of the raging hormones he would recall.

"Not sure," Matt answered plainly, "She might find us." ZOOM! Screeech!

"Hey," shouted a young woman who blurred to a halt before Matt and Midnight, "Sorry everybody's a bit late. Just something came up recently, and we're trying to deal with it."

"It's alright. I imagine that would be the reason we came," said Matt.

"Oh, yeah. Right. She told us you could help out. Anyway, I'm-" POP! Pew!

"Hey, Rainbow Dash! Is that them?!" The sporadic entrance and loud blast of fluttering confetti actually startled both men, as a bouncing, skirted teenager joined them also. Matt could not help but notice stones on their persons, pulsating as they came up. "I've always wanted to meet new people coming to visit, now that Starlight Glimmer came over! Speaking of which, where is Starlight Glimmer? I thought maybe she might want to come over and say hi for a little while and hang out with everybody. It's always great to see new friends and new faces coming over to mingle. Don't you think so, Rainbow Dash? I think so. Not to mention old, familiar faces that come on by to visit and catch up with said new faces."

"Not sure which one I'd rather put up with," uttered Midnight under his breath.

"Alright Pinkie, I think they got it." The young female voice that called out was even and calm, as its owner casually strolled over, alongside four other teenagers and a puppy. They also kept gems of energy with them. "Hi, names Sunset Shimmer. I'm sure you can guess which is which around here."

"Uh, is that rhetorical," asked Rider, to which Pinkie and Dash chuckled with Shimmer.

"You must be Counselor Daredevil," the latter said while offeringing the two men her hand, "Princess Twilight told me a few things about you. And you, Midnight Rider. Pleased to meet you both."

"Likewise, Miss Shimmer," smiled Matt, after sending his own. "Princess Sparkle and Miss Glimmer send their regards."

"Yeah, thanks. Heard they're about to start a new school there in Ponyville, right?"

"Getting the groundwork started is my understanding, yes. And I noticed you're wearing gloves. Odd, for this time of year."

"Oh, that. That's kind of a different story. Anyway, let's go someplace where we can get started."

"Sounds good enough for me. Mister Rider?"

"Yeah, sure."

As they were making their way into the building and down the hall, Pinkie Pie practically dragged Matt over to meet and shake hands with Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack and Twilight Sparkle, the last of whom held a furry Spike closely.

"And Spike can talk too by the way," Pinkie exclaimed further.

"So, uh," the pup began, "Is it true you have super-senses to make up for your blindness?"

"Spike," gently rebuked Twilight, "it's impolite to ask personal questions right away. Although, I am rather curious to know about the details myself. I-I mean, if that's okay with you." Matt caught sense of Shimmer's smirk and piqued interest, upon hearing them ask.

"Don't worry. No harm done. To some extent they do," he answered back, "I might know the surrounding area in great depth and detail, but I still can't read printed words, or see a projected image. Nor can I distinguish colors. Also, someone's pacemaker might throw me off when finding out the truth about...certain matters by their heartbeats."

"Huh," the farmgirl smugly spoke, "Recon not to be on your case then, sugarcube."

"So," Twilight said, "it's like a form of echolocation."

"To some degree, although I can also pick up on heat signatures, electric and air currents, as well as certain smells throughout the environment."

"That's just swell," muttered Rider, "So, where exactly are we headed?"

"Over here," said Dash, as she pushed open a heavy door with a click. Inside was a wide room containing instruments and cupboards. The scent of brass from the cymbals, strings and tambourine entered Matt's nostrils, alongside the electricity rushing through the hooked up guitars, speakers and strapped keyboard that pulsed against his ears and skin. And standing in the midst of all this stood the figures of two more adolescents with another pair of adults.

"Counselor, Mister Rider," came Princess Celestia's voice, but much less eloquent, "Thanks for coming on such short notice."

"We believe this could be right up our ally, Principal Celestia. Luna. The pleasure is ours."

"Speak for yourself," breathed Rider. Just then, the school principals introduced the other youths in the room.

"This Gloriosa Daisy, and her younger brother Timber Spruce," stated Luna. "They're Camp Everfree's counselors, and acting directors."

"Miss Daisy," warmly greeted Matt with a bowed head, wondering what Foggy would give to have this opporunity. He then went forward to shake hands. "Mister Spruce."

"Counselor," both meekly replied. "Mister Rider."

"Hey."

"Their family camp has been placed under scrupulous allegations," added Luna.

"Who is the plaintiff?"

"A Mister Filthy Rich, who's filing against them for attempted sabotage and vandalism on property that was nearly on the market." That name was bound to have caused a roaring outburst, had his friend and partner been there to hear it.

"This Camp Everfree we've been told about, I assume, is the property in question."

"Yes, Counselor," replied Celestia, "After the school helped to fundraise enough for the Camp to meet foreclosure deadlines, Mister Rich made cause to dispute against these two acting as the managers."

Matt asked further, "And what about the parents? Where were they?"

"Mom and Dad have been away on business," answered Gloriosa, "and they were out of reach at the time. They counted on us to keep everything steady while they were gone. Hoped to pass it down to us, when they got back. I thought I could handle things without them. But...guess not."

"Wasn't exactly much help, either," said Timber downcast, receiving a comforting hand from Twilight. "Just kept covering for my sister, instead of finding someone who could help us out."

"And where are they now?"

"On their way back," said the sister, "Their plane'll be landing in a few hours."

"Think you could give us a lift, Mister Rider?"

Midnight huffed at Matt, "Hilarious."

"We'll be more than happy to take you both," offered Celestia, "Would be a good idea to start covering our bases with them from there."

"Missus Meadow, Mister Log. I'm Counselor Daredevil, and I'll be representing you. I'd also like you to meet Midnight Rider, my associate."

"Temporary associate," added the dark grey man. Daisy Meadow and Pine Log took the offered hands in gratitude.

"Thanks Counselor, Mister Rider," spoke the bright green woman warmly, "Pine and I have had the hardest time getting back home after the incident. And then hearing about the lawsuit just as we got our flights booked. Well..."

"Not exactly sunshine and roses right now," finished Pine, whose maroon arms had folded. "We just hope you guys are as good as we expect."

"Rest assured, you two," said the golden lawyer, "We'll do everything we can to keep anyone from taking your rightful property."

"It's not just the deed to the land," said Meadow, "It-It's a family heirloom of sorts. Our home and tradition. Countless memories. It's like it's...it's a part of us. Our pride and joy."

"Three generations of putting hearts and souls into its preservation, growth and development," joined Pine. "Hopefully, it can stay with us for more to come."

"And we will keep that at heart in our efforts. Nothing but our absolute best. Right, Mister Rider?"

The slight tilt from the guy's red lenses held some hint of retort towards Rider. "Yeah. And I'll make double-sure about that."

"That's always good to hear," Pine noted, "But whatever direction this thing goes, just make sure the consequences don't get past anyone. And that includes Gloriosa and Timber."

"We're sure they learned their lesson from this, and accept full responsibility for their actions," Meadow said, somewhat forced, "But we do hope they can get a second chance. And that someday we could trust them to fully inherit the family tradition, if they want it. That's what this was about originally."

"Then let's see if we can help each other make it so," nodded Daredevil.

"Our ride's just outside," said Midnight, "Let me take your bags."

"Thank you," smiled Daisy Meadow. Of course, Rider forgot about his newfound fingers were needed to lift the baggage, expecting them to simply lift on contact. With a smirk, he saw the golden lawyer pick up the handle of one easily, and strolled back to the doorway.

"If it's any consolation," he muttered, "I still don't know how to work a neck tie with hooves."

"Whatever, pal. Let's just go."

After loading their suitcases, the couple took their seats in the back of Principal Celestia's motorized vehicle, while Rider and Daredevil took the middle row behind the driver. With everyone inside and belts fastened into the seats, with which Midnight still needed practice, they made their way back to the High School.

Adjacent to the room where teachers would sit and relax was a conference table, to which he took his seat next to Daredevil, with the school Principals sitting outside of them. Across the table sat the parents and siblings, with Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle and the rest sitting close by. As Vice-Principal Luna gave him a notepad and pen, as though he knew how to operate one with his new limbs and digits, Daredevil got things started.

"First of all, I'd like to ask. What association does this school have with Camp Everfree in particular?"

"Because my sister and I camped there before," answered Luna, "we decided to offer our sponsorship to the family-ran organization, and help pass that down to future generations."

"And that's carried on to this day," Celestia added, "Taking our own students there during the spring, after we gained our current positions."

"Missus Meadow, Mister Log," continued Daredevil, "What can you tell us about the foreclosure?"

"Before we left," Pine Log spoke, "we had been told by Filthy Rich that we had a month to regain our footing. Attendance in the Camp had dropped more and more, and we were unable to afford more workers to help maintain it, let alone expand on it."

"That's why we took that trip," Daisy Meadow added, "It was the last of our savings we used to seek out further revenue, after we made some headway here. We were going to let Gloriosa and Timber know we managed to get enough for a start, but lost contact with them after a big storm struck where we were."

"And that's when Filthy Rich decided to put pressure on you two," Midnight said, waving, then dropping his pen toward the siblings.

"More on me," said Gloriosa, "Guess being the oldest meant he could just make demands from me, and cut out TImber from the conversation because it was convenient for him."

"But what made you confident in gaining the amount needed for the foreclosure," asked Daredevil.

"I...well, uh...I don't know how...I-I'm not sure if..."

"If we'd believe you." Daredevil's even, yet calming tone came through. "Miss Daisy, we promise to do our best here, and that includes listening to all you have to say. And I'll be sure to determine the truth to the best of my ability. Just remember, trust is a two-way street."

Midnight glanced at the teenaged girls and puppy that were looking at each other, fully aware of the secret they were willing to keep for the vigilante. And judging by the smirks from the Principals, they were at least aware of where the two men had come from, and equally were accommodating to the nature of such information. After being told there was no existing magic save for what enters from Equestria, he thought it best to leave that unspoken as well.

"Well," sighed Gloriosa, "I know this might sound crazy, but...I found these little gems, geodes actually, in some sort of cave. And they somehow had this power I thought that could help me, and just give whatever I thought I needed. I went too far, and the power I had gained just got the better of me, and then I...I just...I got out of control. Not listening to reason. Put everyone in danger, and nearly destroyed everything the students, and my family built."

"The students here can collaborate with all that she said, Counselor, Mister Rider," said Celestia, "Along with Luna and myself."

Noting how each of the seven girls reached for a necklace, pin or bracelet, Rider could more than guess where these geodes wound up.

"And Mister Spruce," Daredevil asked further, "You were made aware of your sister's actions prior to the incident in question?"

"Yeah," huffed Timber, downcast. "I kept arguing with her that it wasn't worth getting all worked-up over losing the camp. And that we did everything we could, and that she needed to let go of the geodes. They were just too much for her. But she just kept going on using those things. And to keep anyone from getting suspicious of her when she messed up, I made up some ghost story and planted fake evidence to cover her tracks. But that just made her even more motivated to fix things. I just went and made things worse."

Once again, the teenaged Twilight Sparkle offered a consoling hand onto his, making Rider ponder the nature of their relationship. And it seemed Daredevil also shared in those thoughts.

"Now, I'm well aware of the personal level these next question entail," he said, "But I must ask how each of the students are connected to the defendants. This is important, because anything can be used to help Mister Rich's case. And they will."

"Well, most of us are just good friends to them," answered Shimmer. "Just wanting to help out with rebuilding and fundraising as best as we could."

"And I've just been working with Timber at the pool," joined Applejack. "But, um, Twi and him started going out t'gether after Camp Everfree."

"Mister Spruce, how old are you?"

Stammering at first, he responded, "Um, eighteen this fall."

"And how did you two meet?"

"Oh," spoke up Twilight, "He was assigning cabins to each of us students, when he started teasing me about the one I was given. And then I retorted back, and it went on from there. But it was all in good fun."

"But what else happened? Did you two develop a firm bond beforehand or since? Get to know each other more?"

"Well, no. Just," at this, the purple teen paused in her reply, "We just kept that playful banter going. Occasionally holding hands. And we shared a dance together, after we helped rebuild the camp."

"And we went out to dinner a couple times," Timber added.

"Anything else?"

"NO," sharply answered both, with blushes shared. Midnight could only smirk in amusement, especially towards the parents' varied expressions.

"Again, I apologize for the discomfort brought on here. But this could be something that the prosecution would use against us. Who initiated the majority of these occurrences? At least, prior to courtship?"

"Well, uh..." "You see, um..." The teenage pair was only looking at their own, fidgeting hands, before Timber Spruce finally spoke. "I did."

"So in brief, the acting co-director of Camp Everfree made a few advances toward you, Miss Sparkle, despite also being a minor, but equally held accountable for the safety and well-being of all. Bearing false witness against his own sister, he further endangered you, your friends, principals and classmates. But he still managed to gain your full trust and confidence after you forgave him, and you two had just a few playful remarks toward each other when you started your relationship. Am I pretty close?"

The summary of facts were so coolly, and so bluntly given, that it had put every single youth in the room into an abrupt shock. Spruce and Sparkle both struggled to make any comprehensible sounds with their mouths, while Gloriosa, Rarity, Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy and Shimmer left theirs wide open. Missus Meadow actually moved her hand to cover her own, while Mister Log simply rubbed the bridge of his nose.

"Whether or not you were fully aware of this situation," Daredevil continued, "and even if you all were willing to give them a second chance despite all this, the prosecutor, and possibly the jury might not agree. And Miss Applejack, what was Mister Spruce's behavior like while working with him?"

Although struggling to answer at the start, the honest farmer spoke of the little competition they had together, which grew to be more obnoxious, and then became serious when they both competed in the rescue of a struggling swimmer.

"Heh. And I thought I was overcompetitive," Rainbow Dash awkwardly chuckled.

"Considering how that could've terminated both your lifeguard credibility," said Daredevil, "That could reinforce their case in how brash and irresponsible Timber Spruce has shown himself at Camp Everfree."

"What are you saying," asked Gloriosa Daisy, "That there's no chance of ever keeping the camp? That we've lost already? And all we did to rebuild it was for nothing!?"

"I never said that," shook Daredevil's head calmly, "I'm just pointing out the critical flaws in our case that need to be addressed. So, considering you both openly admitted to the actions you've taken, and expressed acceptance of being held accountable, that does leave us room for your parents to take full reins of the Camp again, providing you two are supervised until further notice, and possibly given community service for a certain period of time.

But that might not even be necessary for Miss Daisy since she's over eighteen. Unless the city or county decided to press charges on her afterwards, instead. But this doesn't have any effect on the Camp's fate altogether, since Missus Meadow and Mister Log could regain full control of it, and still use the raised funds that met the deadline. They could still be allowed to keep the land. After all, Mister Rich harassed and put pressure on you only, Miss Daisy.

And we don't need to describe the exact nature of your sudden means of support either. You can simply state that you went over your head in finding a quick and easy solution to your abrupt problem by some...unnamed provider. And your issue was instigated by Mister Rich when he felt it convenient to advance onto you, taking advantage of your parents' absence. After the incident, you lost all that support from the unnamed provider when nothing came from it. And Mister Rich wouldn't have any grounds of acquiring the campsite to begin with."

He could tell there was great relief and hope from the sighs and gasps the teens' let out by Daredevil's words.

"But that's only the best case scenario," Rider heard him continue, "The judge could still state that since you two were appointed by your parents to take full charge of the Camp, and all it that implies, the rest of the family may no longer be entitled it. And since the man demanding those payments would be unfit to stake a claim either, that could force the Camp into the open market indefinitely. Anyone who can would be able to place better offers in buying it."

Total, and complete silence emanated throughout the conference room. All the youth in attendance stared blankly ahead of them. Almost as though it became its own kind of noise. After listening to that huge amount of stuff Daredevil had to say, most of it flew over his head. But he could still make out a few words and reactions that were made after to connect the dots.

"So, uh," muttered Spike, "what should we do?"

"Holy smokes," gasped Pine Log, "You two weren't kidding about the dog either!"

"Right now," Daredevil replied, "The main focus will be to ensure that there's complete and solid evidence to show the parents are still in full possession of the campgrounds. No doubt their names are still in the deed, and witness accounts or other documents indicating the nature of their trip will be enough to help with that."

"Well, we," Daisy Meadow started, "we can definitely get you the documents and messages my husband and I have collected during our travels."

"And the deed's at home in a safe box with other important files on the property," said her husband.

"Yes, thanks," nodded Daredevil, "That'll be a great help to us."

That seemed to help calm things down for everybody, because the eagerness to get things organized and contribute in any way they could emanated a sense of comfort from all the teenage girls that surrounded the pup and Twilight. They were told that the grownups would let them know how else they could help, and that they could go and enjoy their weekend as much as possible before the upcoming session in court.

Spike was put down by his master and friend, prompting him to take a few laps around her feet before he took after Fluttershy and Rarity to seek out attention from them.

"You girls go on ahead," he heard Twilight say, "I'll be right with you in a minute."

"Yeah, sure," nodded Sunset with a shrug, "We'll just be out at the parking lot and wait for you."

"Just be sure not to take too long, darling," said Rarity scratching his chin, "We need to be there for the great mall discounts. I know I could whip-up some special accoutrements for the hearing. Something most suitable for our legal aids of unique qualities."

"Yeah," added Rainbow Dash, just as Timber Spruce came out also, "And those totally awesome roller blades are on sale! Who knows when those babies will sell out!"

"Or the pet store, when they'll be out of stock," Fluttershy added, getting the back of Spike's ear.

"I'm sure it's not a matter of life and death," chuckled Sunset Shimmer, "But I know you won't be gone too long, anyway."

"Thanks," smiled Twilight, as the other six teens left. The little pup was uncertain of whether he should stay or not, but turning to a nodding Twilight gave him the instruction needed to join the others. But as he made the turn at the corner, his ear perked up to Timber's voice.

"So, what'd you want to talk about?"

"Well, first of all," answered Twilight's, "I just want to say that we've come to a good place for us. I mean, I think it's very good. Really nice. It's been fun. And I really do think you are a good person. A-And the times we shared together were really fun, and I've really enjoyed this. So much."

"Okay, sure," said Timber, "Thanks. And I think you're really great, too."

"T-Thanks," she stammered back, "But I also think there's something that needs to be addressed. Like the counselor said, we-we put a lot of trust in you and Gloriosa to start making amends at the Camp, and everybody else. And I think you've made some good progress there too. B-Both of you. It-It...It's just that I also think this is a very crucial part of our friendship that needs to be reinforced."

"And what's that exactly," he asked.

"I just want to know...I want to hear you tell me...tha-that I can trust you. Completely. Totally. N-Not because I'm having doubts about our relationship! I still think all that has been really, really, really nice! But with how everything was summed up about how we met, and how little we really got to know about each other...I-I just want to make sure that this has a good, um - how did Sunset Shimmer describe it? A firm foundation. Can you do that for me? For us?"

"Yeah, of course," he sharply responded. Almost impulsive. "Absolutely! You know I'll do everything I can to try to make things right."

"Thanks, Timber," she sighed, before Spike decided to run after Sunset and the others, "I really needed to hear that."

With the documents required set for delivery to their rooms at the local inn, Matt believed it was time to know more about the prosecution. There was bound to be a well-founded reason behind Rich's attempt to gain control of the land in this manner. Otherwise, recognizing how baseless his accusations would be would have the next step in negotiating alongside his representatives. Unless, of course, those same people managed to procure a means of building their case with a bold-faced lie or misconception. After the Camp's owning family left to take care of that, he decided to learn what else he can find out.

"Now, since we have everything in order on this end of the table," Matt began, "We need some idea of where the plaintiff is going with this case, and in what, exact manner. On what grounds does Mister Rich believe he has to file suit?"

"As we've stated earlier," spoke Luna, "He accused the acting directors of the Camp of sabotaging the property value of the place, so as to more readily attain a means of securing the foreclosure."

"On what grounds?"

"That in some vain attempt to make a last-ditch effort," Celestia answered, "Gloriosa Daisy and Timber Spruce found a loophole in the foreclosure agreement, stating that any and all property damage reduces the rate of payment, so as to provide a means of reconstruction. Otherwise, Mister Rich would have to pay for the damages himself once he gained the campsite."

"How does he intend to support that claim?"

Luna replied, "On suspicion that Canterlot High School was incidentally connected to the incident in Camp Everfree, as well as the...unexplained disturbances that happened during the Friendship Games a few months ago."

"Please, illuminate."

"Every four years, Canterlot High faces another school in a series of sporting events and challenges, to allow for further engagement and sportsmanship with other students outside their own classes."

"It's so they can start and build a sense of community and camaraderie before they graduate," added Celestia. "Collectively, it's the other school that's been winning the vast majority of events. Only this time, unexplained circumstances caused the games to be decided in a draw, which may have prompted Mister Rich's key witness to step forward. Someone whom Mister Rich has sponsored for quite a while."

"And who's that?"

"Principal of Crystal Preparatory Academy, Abacus Cinch," said Luna. His raised brow matched the hitched breath of disturbance from the man seated next to him.

"Come on," Rider scoffed, "You've got nothing to say about it?" Blldldlldldldldldldling~! Blldldldldldldldling~!

It was then that he heard the phone ring at his bedside table. The sonic vibrations against the plywood furniture, alarm clock and floor allowed for Matt Murdock to find the right button to press. Bip. "Yes?"

"Reception," the woman's voice flatly responded, "A Miss Sunset Shimmer with some files for you."

"Thank you. Send her up." Boop.

"Two days," Midnight continued, "Two days since we got here, and you still keep a tight lip about the fact that the very woman testifying against us, is exactly the same as the mare who insisted you be put in temporary exile from the Empire."

"I imagine you might think that's amusing," he replied plainly, "if not for the fact that she also terminated your employment, Mister Rider. What was it you did for her again? Running errands?"

"In-depth research," Rider spoke with brash emphasis, "Which I'm sure I could've done more efficiently, if I hadn't felt I needed to keep looking out for you."

"Assuming, of course, you're willing to do so in the first place," rebuked Matt, and added before any retort, "You placed that resolve on yourself of your own free will. You decided to hold yourself back from doing the best you can."

"Yeah, well you were the deciding factor in that."

"That may be so," he nodded. "But that's a completely separate matter, in an entirely different world. Focusing on the here, and now is our only option of seeing this through properly. And yes..." He cut Rider off again. "Yes it involves a matter of trust on both accounts, which is probably why the Princess of Friendship, herself, instigated this occurrence as a means for us to do so, and to fully cooperate. Plus, she did warn us about the unsettling nature of this place, prior to our entry."

"So, it doesn't really bother you? Not a bit, to face that mare again in this world?"

Taking a sharp sniff while biting his lower lip, Matt removed his spectacles and sat on the bed. "There was a man, long, long ago, who was called upon with the task of leading his people out of oppression and slavery. An entire race of families and friends, out into the wilderness, the hot, dry desert to find the land ordained and promised to them. Many times they complained and regretted doing so, whining of starvation and thirst. But just as many times did the man perform signs and wonders for them, to let them know they were well provided. Not by him, but the One, higher being who called on him to carry out these things. As a representative.

But then, the complaints became too much for the man to bear. When instructed to strike the mountainside once to bring forth water to the people, in his anger, and frustration, and impatience, he struck it twice. Water still came out for the people to drink, but he had just disobeyed his Lord and Creator. Much was given to him, and much was expected of him. As punishment, he was to die on the mountaintop, overseeing the land he brought his people to. Never to set foot in it.

As a man of the law, I'm tasked with the responsibility to uphold and carry it out, without prejudice or bestial rage. This punishment, I feel, is the least that I deserve. But I'm fully accepting that this is the consequence of my actions. Against you, those whom I've frightened, and supposed to protect...and Frank. Now the question is, are you willing to accept those of your own? Or, are you still complaining? Blaming those who just want to help you and your family? And I'm not just talking about myself." Knock-knock-knock. "Ahem. Door's open."

Miss Shimmer and Miss Sparkle had entered after they undoubtedly waited for the right moment to come without interrupting.

"Got the last of your notes," the former said, "The Bridle printer needed more paper, why it took us longer."

"It's alright. Thank you."

"I couldn't help but study the different characters that were pressed into the pages," the latter stated, "It's a completely different process than simply printing ink onto them. Like it was pressing rivets and indents onto a marble plaque from underneath."

"I think this will be sufficient for today," said Matt, as he received the pages from Shimmer's bare hand. Shaking it, he offered, "Hope you all enjoy the rest of your evening."

Just then, he sensed the same wave of energy in Equestria pulsating from the little gem Sunset wore. Just for a moment. But keeping himself from drawing too much attention towards it, he asked Twilight. "Miss Sparkle, tomorrow's the hearing, right?"

She stammered at first, "U-um, yes! Yes, it is. In the morning. We won't make it 'til near the end after our classes though."

"Right. Glorious Sunday, joyful Monday. Miss Shimmer, may I ask you something?"

"Well, uh, yeah. I suppose."

"Any mosques, temples or synagogues in this town? Some sort of gathering place for worship?"

"Um, none that I'm aware of." The total oblivious response in her voice puzzled Matt's enquiry even further. "Never been told about those kind of things since coming here?"

"Well, no. Not really. Why?"

"Just curious. Take care, you two." As the pair of teens warily departed, Midnight Rider glanced between them and Matt, taking a breath of uncertainty from that exchange.

"Okay," he said, "Well, I'm heading next door to hit the hay."

"Sleep well, Mister Rider." Knowing fully well his intention of sparsely resting through the night as before, Matt caught sense of Midnight's stiffening form. Then he shut the door from behind, after shutting out the lights. It was then, after finally having the room to himself in relative silence, that he began to ponder certain matters to himself.

Everything in the air felt and smelled familiar, from the pavement, to the car exhausts, to the stagnant air from throughout the high school building he had been accustomed to. Including Columbia and Harvard. The currents of heat, electricity and sound were definitely detected in regular intervals. The people all around had healthy, steady pulses and regular organ functions. But that was the problem.

Everything felt far, too normal. There was hardly any distinctions sensed by the movements and actions by the people all around him, Midnight, Sunset and her friends. No, solidified means of determining anyone else's identity or internal states. And that was not all that bothered Matt.

The simple fact that his unofficially adopted, little brother dragon was reduced to the friendly bond of a mere pet. Perhaps he was analyzing this situation far, too much. But he trusted his gut in this one, in the same vein as Stick had trusted his own.

And all day. Throughout the entire morning and afternoon, could not detect even the slightest hint of a bell ringing from a church steeple at any distance within city limits. He could account for the fact that much like Equestria this world found a separate means of identifying or acknowledging a higher entity who created all things. Much like those books by Lewis he read in Braille, either those of Narnia as a child, or that Space Trilogy in college.

But Miss Shimmer seemed to be totally unaware of such a thing, and she had been residing here far longer than any outsider, even him.

However, deciding it best to drop the matter until the next opportunity arose to discuss it with Twilight, he rested his glasses onto the bedside. He then began to change into the pajamas Rarity had kindly purchased for him, and pulled the covers out of their neatly made position. Sensing a ball of something plush as he tucked in, Matt smirked at the gesture of Pinkie Pie's stuffed animal.

He placed it onto the stand as well, before laying his head onto the pillow and shutting his darkened eyes. Despite all that he can sense around him, he strove to rest as much as he could, knowing what tomorrow would bring.

...to be continued.