"It's not how you hit the floor, Matt. It's how you get back up." A great raucous could be heard all around. A slight buzzing makes the resounding applause not wholly clear, yet enough to emanate a sense of pride and triumph.

Ding-ding-ding!

"And the winner! Battlin'! Jack! Murdock!" It became the happiest moment experienced, shortly followed by the worst. ***BANG!*

The scent of burnt powder and charred residue, along with the echo of that sudden blast replaced the cheers, leaving all else utterly blank. Then it brought a touch to one's heart of cold dread and loneliness.

"Dad? Dad?! DADDY!" The bitterness gradually fueled the flame inside that heart, one of fury and total rage. But it was hindered. Postponed. Reserved, for another time. For the outlining and indentations of two figures softly emerged.

One brought a sense of serenity, strength and salvation during the most terrible times. A being attached to wooden rods that crossed near the top. The other, one of sweet, gentle composure, holding closely an object shaped like a lamb.

Behind the latter, stepped up one that was not still and unmoving like the others. Not a statue. A breathing creature, adorned in a long robe and headdress. In a female voice, it warmly said, "No matter how much you feel abandoned, Mattie, there's always someone that loves you, and prays for you. No matter how far from Saint Agnes'."

"Thanks, Sister Maggie."

The foundations beneath suddenly started to crumble. The cracks grew and spread like poison through one's veins. Each one sent smoldering heat, nauseating gasses, and horrible screams. Three could be heard distinctly that were also female, one of foreign descent.

"Elektra, please...don't go!"

"Matthew! You never said being good hurt this much!"

"If you really did your best, you would've finished the creep that did this to my Father, in the first place!"

"I...I'm sorry, Heather."

"Just tell me, Matt. Is this life you have worth more to you than any of us?"

"You deserve better, Karen."

Three slabs of stone soon emerged from that wretched ground. Then rose another figure from them, wielding a pair of blades that brushed sharply against the cold, relentless air.

Another voice was attempting to reach out. An elderly male, firmly trying to break through the totally merciless chaos. "You fight the fire with its opposite, Matt. Reject the hatred that torments you. Vanquish it with holy, peaceful Love."

"But how, Father?"

"You want to wallow in your own, pitiful waste kid, that's up to you." This male also sounded old, but battle-worn and severe. "But if you want to break free of it - and I mean all of it - don't go looking for answers from other, pitiful human beings cloistered in rotting bricks for homes."

The being with duel daggers suddenly swept in, and violently stopped the old one from speaking anymore.

"Elektra, no! STICK!"

"He never did care for you," the foreign female flatly said, "He just left you to fend for yourself, when he thought you weren't the weapon he wanted. As he did me. It's time to take matters into your own hands, Matthew."

"Why would he," a second blunt male, though younger, stepped up. "He's just a half-measure. Nothing but a man scared to finish the job. A coward, who doesn't really want to let the Devil out, like last time. Am I right, altar boy?"

"Where'd you go, Matt?" The next one, another young female. But she exclaimed in painful discouragement, and loss. "Why'd you leave?"

"Thought you wanted to make this city a better place," came the final cry, from a second young male. "To make a difference here!"

"Foggy, Milla! Wait!" Just then, a great, monumental force SLAMMED against the floor beneath. Smothering, burying, and crushing whomever was caught in between. Coughing, wheezing, fighting for air, the screams ceased their torture against the ears. Instead, the whish-whish of another blade attached to a clinking chain was heard, alongside twin clicks of loaded pistols, then the pounding steps of a titan. The last of the menacing trio, soon accompanied by a mass of other villains, then spoke.

"The time has come, at last, for this city to burn. To be born anew from the ashes. Your city, your family, will no longer see a better tomorrow. Now that you've gone, Mister Murdock."

Thus, it ended. The whirling assault of shame, guilt, doubt, rage, self-pity, loss, and desperation were suddenly put to a standstill, leaving everything to float aimlessly amidst the air. His faith and hope were terribly shaken. She had never experienced agony like this. Not since her own banishment. To be far from home, completely powerless to do anything about it. Now, the poor stallion awoke. Not with an outcry or scream, nor did he sharply rise out of breath. But simply delirious and weary, breathing a silent prayer. And her sister's dawn had yet to greet all ponies, and those beyond Equestria, with a new day.

That Try Mares' Souls

~ Part II ~

She had difficulty sleeping that night. Not because of that frightful encounter with the pony thug now in custody, but the stallion she recognized. Unsure of how to handle it, she decided first to wash and refresh herself. Why did he do it? How could he have done it? Was he even blind? What will he do now, with her knowing of it?

More than uneasy by this whole ordeal, she now wished for the simpler moment when she got past her stress, the one prior to last night's assault. And that was exactly what happened to her. She was assaulted, by some crooked pony who never wanted her to help her friend. How he treated her was wrong. He needed to be stopped, and she needed help. So why was she angrier with the pony who did both for her?

Was it how he did it? Was it because of the obvious secrecy? Was it both, along with some other reason? He might have done this his entire life, for all she knew. But then surely the Elements would have known about him, if that were the case. The Map would surely have sent them to Manehatten, where he said he lived, for such a terrible problem. What else was he keeping from them?

Tap-tap-tap! Startled at first, she sharply left her trail of thought, and turned her ear towards the door.

"Fluttershy," in came Rainbow Dash's voice, shortly followed by Rarity's.

"Are you alright in there, darling? Princesses Celestia and Luna just arrived from the station, and we can't afford to delay."

"I'll-I'll be right there," she softly called back, though her hesitance resonated the crystal walls, "I'm...I'm okay."

"Nopony can blame you for staying in there. Especially after what you just went through last night, dear. Perhaps, if you're not up for this-"

"Thank you, Rarity," she sharply replied, opening the door, "But I really think I need to do this. To do my part."

"Wow. Gee, Fluttershy, I keep forgetting how much gutsier you've gotten, since we started out."

"Indeed. Despite how harrowing of an experience this all has been for you, Rainbow Dash makes the valid point of your rising courage."

"Thanks. I...guess I needed to hear that, right now. So, everypony's downstairs?"

"Yep. Even Daredevil. Though he looks a little bit tired too."

"I hope everything's okay with him, also," she offered genuinely, despite her discomfort in hearing about him.

"Well then, girls," promptly spoke the Unicorn, "shall we be off?"

Although she kept herself well in-pace with her friends, she craned her neck downward, in deep and weary thought. She intended to take this matter one step at a time, and find out where both ponies stood, before making a final decision.

"I heard what happened, Miss Fluttershy. Are you alright?"

"Y-yes. Um, thanks for asking, Counselor."

"Miss Applejack told me you might not be up for this meeting today. You sure you want to participate?"

"Yes."

"Okay." Watching him wave his staff ahead, the light yellow Pegasus took to a place across the throne room, now keeping a wary eye on him.

"Aunt Celestia, Aunt Luna," said Cadence, "Let me introduce you to Rainbow Dash's attorney, Counselor Daredevil."

"A pleasure to meet you, Your Majesties," he said with a courtly bow, then raised his hoof in their direction. Taking it, both regents greeted him in turn.

"Hello, Counselor. It's very kind of you to aid Rainbow Dash, at such a terrible time."

"Indeed, good sir. This trial, alone, is deemed a difficult event for all present here. To know our ally, and dear friend is given such assurance is truly a gift from the heavens."

"Thank you. So long as we each accomplish what's expected of us, we'll overcome this obstacle."

"For a pony to formally meet us," observed Luna, "You certainly know well to compose yourself."

"In comparison to others that first do," her ivory sister added, "That's admirable, in itself."

"Guess it helps not to see," he smirked back, prompting a slight chuckle from Celestia.

"So it seems."

"So...are we ready to get this thing going, or what?"

"Absolutely, Miss Dash. It's my understanding that...somepony threatened Miss Fluttershy last night."

"From testifying, yes," Twilight answered. "The Guards questioned him, saying he was under Councilpony Cinch's orders."

"That can't be," said Cadence, standing beside her husband, "I've known her since I moved to Canterlot, as a filly. She's the one who taught me court etiquette, and was my advisor growing up. That's why I picked her for a membership in the Crystal Council. I never saw her once resolve to anything like that."

"Neither have I," added Shining, "Though I didn't see her much, while I was just the Captain."

"First time for everything."

"Rainbow Dash," exclaimed Rarity.

"What! Just saying!"

"I concur with Princess Cadence," Daredevil spoke, "From what I can tell of her, Cinch is more by-the-book in nature, especially when it comes to legal matters."

"Well, we got ourselves somepony here saying them two were together by her office, arguing about something."

"Yeppity-yep-yep!"

"The way that seems conveniently placed, Miss Applejack, sounds more like someone trying to blemish her reputation."

"Agreed," nodded the solar regent, "For the time being, it's safe to surmise a third party's involved in this."

"And that might not include the pony who intervened last night," her sister added.

"I heard about that also," the gold-yellow stallion continued, "The fact that he conveniently swooped in to help Miss Fluttershy, and completely covered himself from recognition, begs the question. You think he might be the so-called witness?"

"This witness is a mare, silly," exclaimed Pinkie Pie, "I should know, because last I checked, I am one!"

"Sorry, must've missed that part. The witness, I mean. Nonetheless, he still remains an unknown entity, and on the loose. So he poses a potential threat to us also. At the very least, a hindrance."

"The Crystal-Equestrian Guard is on high alert for him," Shining stated.

"Good."

"You think something resembling last night might happen again? Especially involving such a brute."

"From what I can tell, Miss Rarity, it's best we remain stronger in numbers."

"Indeed," Luna concurred, "For the time being, all those partaking in this hearing should remain vigilant, as well as in groups."

"Guess that just makes me, Fluttershy and Daredevil. So when're we going to see some action?"

"Yeah! I sooo can't wait to see how exciting this will all be, because I've never been to a trial before. And since I nev-"

"There's much more to a court hearing than strictly that, Miss Dash, Miss Pie. That's only ten percent of the whole process, at best. It's in a week, so that leaves us time to collect all research, records and testimonies needed to fully present our case. We need all on deck for this. And I believe that includes all, you Elements. Not strictly Miss Fluttershy."

"Then I guess there's no time to lose," Twilight announced, as she and her friends began to exit, "Spike!"

"Right behind you, Twilight!"

"Guess it's more than just us three, then. Which'll make this even more awesome!"

Following after most of the Elements were the Royal Couple, and the Regal Sisters. However, Fluttershy simply stood still in contemplation. Seeing him remain seated made her realize his awareness of her, also.

She cannot fathom what he might be up to. But how he spoke of his intervention sounded...somewhat sincere. It were as though he still knew what she was going through, and sought to ease her mind somehow. She still wanted to use caution, at the moment.

"I just-" "I was-"

"I'd like to-" "I don't kno-" Seeing him raise his hoof in polite gesture, Fluttershy slid her own timidly against the floor, and began.

"Um...I just want to say, well, thank you, first of all. But...I..."

"But you're not entirely sure you can trust me."

"N-no. I'm not."

"Then why not inform the others about this? About me? Not to sound ungrateful."

"Well, um, that's the thing. I...I don't know."

"Not because I intimidated you, I hope."

"N-no! No. It's not that, at all. Just...trying to figure out what to do about this."

"Hey, Fluttershy! Daredevil! You coming?"

"Be right (out) there, (Miss) Rainbow...Dash." At their response, Fluttershy then quickly regained focus.

"But I do know that we all deserve an explanation."

"Fair enough," he sighed, craning down slightly. She could tell how uncomfortable he was about all this. "But I'm afraid we don't have time do so, at the moment."

"I know. Just...promise you will talk to all of us."

"You have my word, the first chance I get. The least I could do, for what you just did. Or more, didn't do."

Earning a slight, comforted giggle, he stood back onto his hind legs, and allowed for the Pegasus mare to take him by the hoof, as his guide.

She was surprised by how much was needed to get done in such a short amount of time. But also by how well they pitched in to finish. With Daredevil the arrow-head, along with Twilight to give the proper direction and aim for the rest, she could honestly say there was never as good a feeling of getting this done, Sweet Apple Acres aside.

In fact, Applejack could rightly say that this was all worth the sweat and tears put together, so long as they stuck to it together. She could tell the Earth Pony was a sure-fire, pure-bred professional at what he did. And that he was more than confident in what he was doing with them.

"How about I add a bit of my talents in your attire," she heard Rarity say, "A nice suit goes a long way, to look your absolute best, Counselor. Especially for this upcoming event, something equally suitable to a stallion of your talents."

"So long as it's comfortable and mobile, Miss Rarity, I trust your judgment. "

"Thank you. Though it has to go well with your coat and Cutie Mark. Along with those trademark spectacles and staff of yours. Not to mention a need for a clean shave of those scruffy whiskers. And you seemed to only hope for the best, in your efforts on that mane."

"Guilty as charged," he smirked, "I'm no apparent expert."

With AJ, Rarity and Twilight out inquiring about Limelight's employees, and the Guards, he told Pinkie Pie how she could help. When she heard about testifying for Rainbow Dash also, and Cinch's scene with the attacker, her excitement soared even higher than it already had.

There just had been a slight problem about one thing. And that was Daredevil's behavior. When things started out, Applejack was not rightly sure if he was trying to keep face for them all. That he was more uncomfortable about all this to start than he let on. For now, she could only take that to mean he was more nervous than shown. But there was also the way he just quickly answered about knowing Cutie Marks, which seemed suspicious. But she could understand about keeping something like his folks out of the picture, since Rainbow brought them up also. From what Fluttershy told them about his Pa, she can rightly sympathize with the fellow. Even Cadence told them once about her foalhood and adopted family, before moving to Canterlot and studying under Celestia.

But then he also seemed somewhat pensive, when he heard about Fluttershy's attacker. And there was the way he and Fluttershy had been keeping distant. For a blind pony, that's some accomplishment. It was almost like they were allergic, or something. Or maybe those same-pole magnets she heard Twilight mention awhile back. She could tell both had something they were not sharing with the rest, but not in that fuzzy-feeling, crush kind of way. It did not seem all, that bad either. Like they were respecting one another, sort of. She just could not figure it out, though. All her Pegasus friend would tell her when she asked was that Daredevil was finding the right time to tell everypony.

So Applejack did not let that get to her, nor keep her from focusing. For she knew she had to do her part also in helping Rainbow Dash. So, having the week now come and gone, the day of the hearing had commenced.

"Miss Applejack," the Councilpony began, after calling her to the stand first, of all things. "As the Element of Honesty, it seems you have no need to take an oath to tell the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

She strolled leisurely across the floor, in some elegant blouse matching her mane, and her Mark of a lavender abacus.

"I still took it anyhow, to show how much I mean it."

"Quite. And that's what's so admirable about you, Miss Applejack. Most admirable. Then I believe you could be of great help in this case. Tell me, and the members of the jury, your impression of your friend, and fellow Element bearer, Miss Rainbow Dash."

"Well, I'd say she's one o' the best ponies I ever did know. She's got a tough spirit. A fighter, that'n. We get into tussles and compete, now and then. But all in good fun. One o' the best flyers, too, at least. S'why she's a Wonderbolt."

"A fighter? Does that mean she creates confrontations, or quickly responds in that manner?"

"Well, uh...I recon you could say she does that, from time to time."

"Which one, provoking or retaliating?"

"Um, more the second than the first. But..."

"But what, Miss Applejack?"

"Well...eh, sometimes...a little bit o'...both, Ma'am."

"That is all, Miss Applejack. Thank you."

"The Defense," inquired the honorary judge, Starswirl the Bearded.

Daredevil answered, "No cross examination."

"You are dismissed," Starswirl told her.

She could not believe how easily she fell into that can of worms. The way Cinch flattered and played all-nice to her was uncanny, that she knew something was up. Yet she still had a way of getting that response out of her, without even casting a single spell from her horn. Next, she saw Limelight's employer called to the stand.

"Madame Nephrita," began Cinch, after the oath was taken again. "You've known Limelight for some time, haven't you?"

"Yes, Councilpony Cinch. Mister Limelight has been under my employ for well over fifty moons now."

"Indeed. A suitable amount of time to know him well. Then I must ask, what was the nature of his employment?"

"He is a stone examiner, while workers harvested precious stones. He would send forth magic inside them to determine if any could store it, how dense they were, and so on."

"What were his interactions like with his coworkers?"

"Fair. Honest. Decent. Enjoyable even, it seemed."

"So you could speak for yourself, and your other workers, that Limelight is a stallion of good, ethical character?"

"Yes."

"As if!" The rest of the courtroom muttered with unease, as Applejack saw Daredevil firmly keep Rainbow Dash at bay. Pam! Pam!

"Order," strongly announced Starswirl, after using the mallet. "I advise the Defense maintain their composure, otherwise be removed from this hearing."

"Understood, Your Honor," nodded the Earth Pony.

"Thank you, Madame. That is all."

"The Defense?" In response, Daredevil stood up, and evened the suit Rarity custom-made for him. Using his long staff, and counting his steps, he approached the stand.

"Madame Nephrita, I do trust you to be a pony of integrity, yourself."

"Um, thank you, Counselor."

"You did mention Limelight's interactions with others to be overall pleasant. But has that always been the case, throughout the entire time you've known him?"

"Well, no. He came to the Empire, he said, looking for a fresh start. He seemed bothered by something. Perhaps, even embittered."

"Were you aware that he moved from Canterlot, shortly after Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor came here, themselves?"

"Well, yes, but I fail to see the connection."

"The connection being that this was directly after the Changeling incursion of that city led by Queen Chrysalis, now deposed, and all it that implies. So yes, you were right to point out his bitterness, because of what he experienced there in Canterlot, where the Elements were also. Did he ever mention to anypony what that was?"

"N-no, he didn't. Not to my knowledge."

"Yet he managed to fit right in, shortly after you hired him."

"He did, yes. I was most pleased."

"He made new friends, which seemed to brighten up his spirits. Might've even made a bond strong enough to...perhaps open up, in some way. A clean slate from whatever horrors that afflicted him. But then, this happens. A conflict with not one, but two of the Elements of Harmony, with the other four arriving to intervene. What was his behavior like the days prior to that incident?"

"Well, um, distant, like when he started out. Almost neutral, it seemed. Definitely not as enthused, or, as you said, high-spirited. But I assumed it was because he just grew accustomed to his routine."

"The day of the confrontation, did he ever mention to anypony where he was going, or what he was doing?"

"He said there was a personal matter that needed attending to. So he asked me directly for the extra day off. He's worked so hard, and so well, I immediately complied."

"You seem diligent in knowing about your workers well enough. Do you know of anypony that could attest to Limelight's whereabouts, aside from the Elements themselves, or even describe the nature of his issue, in more detail?"

"Well, no."

"Thank you, Madame. Your time's most appreciated."

After the Crystal Pony's dismissal came quite the unexpected surprise.

"Mares and gentlestallions of the jury, all in attendance," proclaimed Cinch, "Against my own advice and best wishes, comes somepony who wills to testify today. Despite his condition, he has the passion and strength to carry out his cause. I now call on Limelight to the stand."

Covered in bandages, a brace around his crest, and limping with his head held high, the dark crimson Unicorn, mane and eyes dark pine, with a glowing jade Cutie Mark, firmly made his way through the opened doors. There was further muttering among the observers. And even Rainbow could not believe her own eyes.

"Are you kidding me," she gasped. Pam! Pam! Pam! All returned to silence, once again.

"Mister Limelight, as much as it pains me to see you here, not fully recovered, I congratulate you on your resolve."

"Thank you, Councilpony."

"Now, in your own words, describe to us all what happened that day."

"I took the day away from work, after receiving a message from an old friend of mine in Canterlot. He said to meet with him on the outskirts. He told me about something that he attained, something that we believed would help us make things better for other ponies. We wanted to take matters into our own hooves, and keep so much power from staying with certain ponies any longer. We...we wanted to remove the Elements from their bearers...and destroy their bonds with them."

The outburst that followed enveloped the entire chamber, as all six mares and Spike sat agape, in their respective seats. Pam! Pam! Pam!

"Order!" Pam! Pam! "Order!"

"We thought Princess Sparkle and her friends have hoarded those precious gems for far, too long." Limelight continued to speak, with a passion. "Keeping such power to themselves, only using them when most convenient. Or, at the time of the Changeling attack, not readily available to them. And only them. Just then, after I received from my friend what I needed to do so, they pursued me, from out of nowhere. Up to the volcano that stood beyond the city limits, in the Frozen North, but still in the Empire. They chased me to that fiery keep, where I could be trapped, then I was pushed over the edge!"

"Can you point out by whom, Mister Limelight?"

"Her!" Shakily raising a wrapped hoof towards Rainbow Dash, Limelight was now adamantly furious. The light blue Pegasus was outright speechless by this display, that it took Starswirl's voice to shake her out of it.

"I said order!" PAM! PAM! PAM! Unaware of the raucous that surrounded them, the six ponies and young Dragon were in utter shock and disbelief. Especially by his audacity in saying such things about the Elements. After what felt like hours, though a couple minutes, the crowds eventually calmed themselves. All saw Abacus Cinch take her seat, and Daredevil rising from his own. Much to their surprise, he remained calm, not even to raise some harsh objection during the escalated scene that happened right before.

"Mister Limestone," his baritone voice lowly rumbled, "Sorry. Limelight. I can tell, from the sound of your speech that you're in great pain. And I don't just mean physically. Whatever happened in Canterlot must have tormented you greatly. So much so, you left the city that was once your home, so as to search for a new beginning. And whenever someone had offered you the chance to do so, time and time again, you took it wholeheartedly, without question. You found a new job, made new friends, been given all blessings and good fortunes that came with them, until someone brought those pained memories back into your life. I can relate to all those aspects, to some degree. Save one. Did your old friend ever mention what he gave you?"

"No. He only said I could get the closure I really needed, and to really make a difference for Equestria."

"I am no stranger to someone in desperate need of a purpose, and seeking such through radical means. And how they would argue it being for the common good. Are you aware now, that the object given to you was the ancient Alicorn Amulet, stolen not from the Element bearers, but a Zebra of the Everfree Forest, who intended to keep it hidden from all ponies, who would be corrupted by its dark magic?"

"If that's what it would take," he stiffly answered, though baffled, "then so be it."

"Yes or no, Mister Limelight?"

"I...no. Not that last bit, 'til now."

"You were willing to destroy bonds of power that, you claim, has been abused and withheld by the Element bearers, by use of an object that would cause you to abuse said powerful item, destroying yourself, and probably others in the process? Even the Elements, themselves, wouldn't touch it."

"I...I..." The stammering of his response, and quivering of his green irises spoke volumes. "I'd do what must be done!"

"Even at the expense of your own free will, and newfound life?" Daredevil then spoke further, with a firm tap of the staff for emphasis. "The fact that your friend never mentioned what was given to you, let alone warned you the dangers that were in store, you don't regret the course of your own actions, nor question his intentions?"

"My actions? They were the ones-"

"And weren't you also made aware that such a bond with the Elements might not strictly be physical? That the mares' very spirits, their essence, might be bound to them for life? That if one might be forcefully removed from the other, linked so strongly, (tap!) permanent damage of the most lethal nature?"

"Objection," exclaimed Cinch, as some ponies briefly murmured behind, "These are baseless accusations, Your Honor! My client was the one being threatened!"

"Do we truly know that to be the case, at this point," asked Daredevil, then made a slight tilt of his head to Starswirl. "And no accusation's to be made, Your Honor."

"Overruled. But be more wary of the point you attempt to make, Counselor."

"Mister Limelight," he evenly, gently, spoke to the Unicorn once more, "I ask you, again. Were you ever, fully conscious of what destroying such potent bonds could do to these mares? Yes, or no?"

"N-n-n...no."

"Under oath, I hope you answered truthfully, for you were then simply a hurt pony, who's been terribly coerced into another's dangerous request. Thank you for your time, Mister Limelight. And I hope you have a steady recovery.

The room was left in utter silence, by the near whisper of Daredevil's final statement. Never had any of the Elements and their friends heard somepony so strong, so firm and adamant, yet also compassionate, patient and graceful, aside from the Princesses of Day and Night. Seeing him casually return to his seat beside a dumbstruck Rainbow Dash, all observed him take a deep breath through the nostrils, before the next segment.

"The Defense may now proceed." In response, Daredevil rose again, and called on his first witness.

"Miss Pinkamena Pie-"

"That's me! Call me Pinkie!"

"Alright, Pinkie. Can you tell us, calmly, where you, Princess Sparkle, Spike, Applejack and Rarity were that day?"

"Absatively-posilutely! Ever heard that, before? Anyhoof, Twilight and the rest of us heard about what happened at Zecora's place. Zecora's the Zebra you mentioned earlier. She told us that somepony stole the case that held the Alicorn Amulet, so Twilight used a spell she had to trace them. Then we went to the Crystal Empire, 'cause that's where she tracked it, then found out that the tracing spell split-up in two, different directions. We thought, 'Gee. That's strange. Wonder why it's doing that?' We went into the pawn shop, where the trail split in half, where the shopkeeper said somepony just pawned a very, very, very fancy case for an old, musty, yucky one, then took off. Then somepony else bought the fancy case. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash took one trail. The rest of us, the other. When we saw Rainbow Dash send the signal of finding the Amulet, we ran to the volcano as fast as possible."

"With the changing of cases, that might help to explain Limelight's unfamiliarity with the Amulet, during that time."

"Yes-siree! Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy said he didn't seem to know exactly what was inside, until he opened it."

"We should have either of them to account for that," voiced Cinch.

"What happened when you arrived there?"

"Well, it was this very creepy-looking, cave-tunnelly-crypt thingy, where we saw Fluttershy lying on the ground, close to the edge, loooooking down. When we got there, we saw Rainbow Dash flying up, holding somepony badly hurt, saying she pushed him, but then went down after him, feeling really bad about it."

"And what about the Alicorn Amulet?"

"I don't know. Rainbow Dash said it disappeared, but you have to ask her or Fluttershy about that too."

"Suggesting another Unicorn might have been involved."

"Huh, I guess so. Yeah."

"I'm curious, Pinkie. Wasn't there another Unicorn you've seen, some time ago?"

"Yep! Yes, I did! Over a week ago, when I thought I'd give Abacus Cinch some cookies, as a nice 'Good Luck' basket, before I learned that wasn't an okay thing to do. Trial party crossovers, or something."

"You learned about that before, or after you tried to offer them?"

"After."

"And did you encounter this Unicorn then?"

"No-hoh, silly! Before! On my way over. And I didn't really encounter him. I just saw him finish arguing with Miss Cinch, when I got there."

"Can you describe him?"

"Tall, bulky, grey coat, mean look on his face, blue eyes, purple and red mane and tail, ooh-ooh, and a horseshoe Cutie Mark shaped like a crescent moon!"

"A matching description of a pony arrested for assaulting Miss Fluttershy, during that timeframe, whom you later recognized. He was identified as one Midnight Rider. And according to the statement made by Miss Fluttershy, he called her, and I quote, 'you Element hoarder', which aligns with Limelight's sentiments concerning you Element bearers."

"Objection," Cinch rose from her seat in fury, "Your Honor, if Counselor Daredevil wishes to accuse me of anything, he must do so directly!"

"Counselor," firmly addressed Starswirl, "I must ask you again, please get to the point. A third time means elimination."

"Of course, Your Honor. Given that you only witnessed the end of a heated discussion between the two, Pinkie, and missing what was said last, would you say there's a shadow of doubt concerning Cinch's involvement?"

"Mm. Uh-huh. Yep."

"Much like with Miss Dash concerning Limelight?"

"Yep. Because Limelight was just saying the exact, same thing about us and the Elements, a second ago. Just like you said."

"Suggesting a third party was involved, in all three scenarios. Thank you, Pinkie, for your time."

"You're Welcome!"

"Miss Pie," began Cinch's own, begrudged questioning, "If I understand correctly, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy took one route, while the rest of you took the second?"

"Yep!"

"Why more in numbers in one, than the other?"

"Duh! Because one trail went straight to the city crowds, meaning we needed more eyes for that, while the Pegasi of our group went to the wider, farther spaces out of town, where their eyes could spot something more easily. And we weren't sure which way was the seller's direction, and the buyer's. When they spotted the guy, they sent the signal. That's when we made our way to the volcano."

"How would they determine if they found the culprit, or simply the buyer?"

"We figured that the only reason somepony traded the case was so we wouldn't recognize it, and maybe throw us off their trail too, which they did for a while. But Twilight also figured that it was more likely that the older case would have the Amulet inside it than not."

"You said Miss Dash felt remorse for what she had done to Mister Limelight?"

"Yeah. We all felt really bad for him. So Twilight teleported to the nearest hospital with him, right away."

"But has the Amulet ever been found in Mister Limelight's, or Mister Rider's belongings?"

"Don't think so. Have to check with the Guards for that, though."

"And which was Miss Dash concerned for first? Mister Limelight, or the vanishing Amulet?"

"Well, I don't know. I don't think she mentioned that part to us. And I've got a really good memory. You'll have to ask her that, too."

"Thank you, Miss Pie."

"You are now dismissed."

"Okie-dokie, Loki!"

"Miss Fluttershy," Daredevil began, "would you care to tell us, in your own words, what you experienced?"

"Um, yes. Rainbow Dash and I flew outside of the city, looking for somepony with the Amulet, or the case. We saw Limestone carrying the old case that was traded for the nice one the Amulet used to be in, then Rainbow Dash sent the signal, like Twilight asked. He seemed pretty scared and desperate, at first. I was worried that he might hurt himself, climbing up to the volcano like that. And when Rainbow Dash reached him first, I got there as quickly as I could, so that neither would be hurt. Then I saw him...s-standing over Rainbow Dash, inside a cavern, saying how he wanted to destroy the Elements of Harmony, s-starting with-with hers."

"Implying that Limestone's statement might've been true. But from your perspective, you both felt threatened also. Please, continue."

"I flew in, and tried holding him back. The lava was so loud, I tried shouting for him to s-stop. But he threw me down too. Close to the edge. Then he said that m-m-my Element should be first, instead. Just then, when he opened the box to see what's inside, Rainbow Dash flew right at him, making him loose the Amulet, and his balance. I shouted at Rainbow Dash to help him, which she did. Just in time, too. Be-before..."

"Was the Amulet ever found?"

"No. Rainbow Dash said it just vanished. W-when..."

"You don't have to say anymore, Miss Fluttershy. You've done so, well enough. Thank you."

After the Earth Pony took his seat, the light blue Unicorn approached Fluttershy next.

"Miss Fluttershy, considering your position, I imagine you've experienced quite a few troubling incidents and events."

"Oh, yes. More than I could ever imagine, both before, and since I bore the Element of Kindness."

"One in particular comes to mind, concerning a sleeping Dragon outside of Ponyville, in which you sternly, and bravely confronted the beast to relocate itself, with its horde. Tell me, and the jury, how did Rainbow Dash conduct herself?"

"Well, um. Sh-she wanted to just kick him out, instead of trying to reason with him."

"Which she sought to do, yes?"

"Yes, but only after Twilight couldn't convince me to try talking to the Dragon first, because of how-"

"And so, in her impatience, she acted on impulse, the same manner in which she approached Limelight?"

"Only when she thought I was really in danger...um, yes."

"And when the Amulet allegedly disappeared, was she facing the same issue you were, at precisely the same instant?"

"Um, well...no."

"And you were immediately concerned for Mister Limelight, correct?"

"Yes."

"Thank you, Miss Fluttershy. That is all."

"For my final witness," announced Daredevil, "I call the Defendant, herself. Miss Rainbow Dash."

After taking the oath, as did everypony else, the Pegasus heard the stallion begin. "Miss Dash. As a member of the Wonderbolts, and as a weatherpony prior, you've been trained to maintain vigilance on your current objective, at all times. Is that correct?"

"Yeah. Always keep our eyes on what we're doing, and what's going on around us, so we don't make any serious mistakes."

"But it seems you are in a difficult situation, exactly as you mentioned just now, Miss Dash. Forgive me for my bluntness in the matter, but I must ask you. Was there any other response that could've been made?"

"Well, I...yeah. Looking back, I'd say so. Maybe."

"Such as?"

"Well, I could've just swooped over, and snatched the box away from him. But I don't know if he'd still fall down, or if he'd still be holding the Amulet to get Fluttershy before I got back. I'd say I just did the best I could, at that moment. Since, you know, felt like Fluttershy was in danger. Because she actually was!"

"And what about the Amulet? How could it possibly evade your notice?"

"I don't know! That's the thing! It just...vanished! Right in front of me! Poof! Gone!"

"Supporting the idea further that Mister Rider's also involved, somehow. Even if he wasn't Mister Limestone's old friend. Miss Dash, thank you."

"The Prosecution," asked Starswirl.

"No cross examination," Cinch flatly answered, finding how Daredevil beat her to the punch.

Overall, everything seemed to be going rather well, given the circumstances. Especially the way Counselor Daredevil had managed to successfully turn the tide in his favor, time and time again. His composure, demeanor, and presentation had been his greatest qualities in handling this trial. Almost as though he were affected somehow by the Elements of Harmony, or perhaps even combining those with the Crystal Heart, along with the Old Pillars of Equestria.

Twilight Sparkle knew she might be exaggerating matters, at least a little bit. But the way things were looking up for Rainbow Dash's case, and how thrilling it was for all to observe how Daredevil managed to do so, it was borderline unnatural by her standards. He was nearly flawless in covering all his bases. Even the other six comrades of Starswirl, who came to visit the Crystal Empire for their first time by his invitation, never witnessed anything like this. They all, and especially Stygian, acquired such great admiration and respect for the blind Earth Pony, who managed to stay even with Abacus Cinch. Though, in Twilight's personal opinion, he had been giving Cinch a rather difficult time, and not so much the opposite.

The lavender Alicorn sat alongside her fellow regents, with her remaining friends and family directly below her, as they all watched from the stands of the Crystal Amphitheatre. She was also glad to see Captain Spitfire and Soarin as morale for Rainbow Dash. Also, such a grand stage was appropriately being used, for such a monumental hearing. And if anypony were to ever doubt the reason, they would have been answered with the following, closing statements.

"Mares and gentlestallions of the jury," began the Councilpony, "You have all been made witness to the necessity to admonish, and subscribe checks and balances for those of high power and influence in Equestria. In an act of seizing my client, Mister Limestone, the Defense falsely insinuated him of being the thief of one of the most potent artifacts in Equestrian history. As a result of such a brash, impulsive quarrel that followed, Miss Rainbow Dash, Element of Loyalty, sent Limestone to plummet into the fiery abyss. Had he not used his own horn to save himself, the situation here would've been far worse.

Perhaps, despite his means of doing so, Limelight may have raised a point in saying the Element bearers might view themselves as too privileged in following the law of any land, despite their best intentions. For, as you saw of Limelight here today, he had been greatly injured, and is recovering still. When all he has done prior to the incident, was set a good example as a modeled citizen, never even aware of why he was pursued by the Elements, to begin with. And the Alicorn Amulet that was stolen is still missing, not anywhere near Limelight's possession anymore, supporting that he's been a mere victim of circumstance. Therefore, it seems there must be called a need to hold such ponies as Rainbow Dash accountable, when the time comes to review their past actions."

She returned to her seat, and Daredevil rose on cue once more. Twilight watched his movements, as he casually brought his staff forward to advance, then stop. At first he stood there, his ears flicking and twitching at perhaps the smallest of sounds. The rest of him were silent and still, almost like a statue, as he maintained his even poise. If not for his disability, she would have guessed he was examining each jury pony. But he was there for many moments, that she could practically see the tension rising between them.

"This land of the Crystal Empire," he spoke finally, "from my understanding, is protected by the love shared by all its citizens for each other, with others living in this fair region, and sharing this same love throughout the world. So it seems the Law of the Land here is to love one another. Love your neighbor, as yourself. Love those standing beside you, whether you know them or not. By simply acknowledging their existence, for starters. And from what I've learned, in my years of tested faith, hope and mettle, is that there's...that there's no greater love...than to lay down your life for a friend.

That's the Spirit of the law, that we each must strive to live up to. Not to break the law, whenever we wish. But simply, to look past it. Figuratively, of course." A brief chuckle was heard. "And my client, Miss Rainbow Dash, knew deeply that her friend was in immediate danger. Unbeknownst to Mister Limelight, who was unwittingly used by a dangerous third party. And before that, Miss Dash knew that other lives were in danger of the Amulet's power. So she acted accordingly. To the best of her ability, she swiftly sought to lay down her own life, her career and reputation, all of which she dreamed of having since a filly, for the sake of her friend's life, and the lives of others. That exemplifies the Element she represents.

Now it's true that Miss Dash has been known to be impulsive and rash. But never has it been proven here that she was irresponsible. As such, mares and gentlestallions of the jury, no substantial evidence has been provided to support Miss Dash of deliberately trying to take Limelight's life, or even had a callous disregard for him. In fact, she strove to help bring him out of the lava she pushed him in, which was an immediate act of defense. And she even reflected on whether there had been a better way, afterwards. This is not the heart and mind of a guilty aggressor, but one who constantly strives to live for her neighbor, to the point of loving others perhaps even more than herself."

"I now present," announced Starswirl, "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza of the Crystal Empire, to commence the jury's procession."

At this, Cadence approached the floor. "With the love shared by the Crystal Ponies, through the Crystal Heart, we hope you fulfill your duty with the utmost wisdom, and resolve."

Just then, the entire area was engulfed by a great, gentle wave of energy, transforming them all.

"Ah-ha-hah," joyfully screamed Flurry, seated with Shining Armor.

"Oh," Rarity was heard, "This never gets old!"

As the jury ponies departed to begin their own session, it seemed all others were moved by, and paused on Daredevil's words. Even Twilight Sparkle thought she could never deliver them any better. For he not only spoke to simply fulfill his task, but he also spoke from the heart, with all his joys and sorrows remembered. She joined in her friends' looks to him, with pride and gratitude for his efforts. He simply sat there, smiling peacefully, in his translucent, gemlike, golden form.

But unlike the Counselor's expectations, as he expressed to the Elements, the jury returned to their posts much sooner. All remained standing, with a Crystal Pony mare speaking on their behalf.

"In the case of Limelight versus Rainbow Dash, we find the Defendant...Not Guilty."

Uproarious cheers vibrated the entire vicinity, causing him to sharply flatten his ears. Cringing, he felt the sudden updraft next to him, indicating his Pegasus client had launched upward.

"YES! Allll-riiiiight!"

"It's time for a PARTEEEEEEE!"

"Yeee-haw!" Jubilant cheers reverberated the walls, steps and floor more wildly, now.

With a great sense of pride and triumph throughout the erupting atmosphere, he let out a deep sigh of relief, satisfied with how his work had finished. After sharing a massive, laughing embrace from Miss Dash and Pinkie, he simply sat back down, hoping to relax for a while.

However, he took note of one particular pony that was not as ecstatic as the other celebrants. The soft breathing and light, gentle movements made him recognize her instantly. The mental image of the Pegasus mare, from all the vibrations, had her facing him with a grateful, tranquil demeanor. But he was also reminded of what lied next in store. And judging by the numerous questions he still had, himself, the gold-yellow stallion accepted inwardly that this was just the beginning.

Author's Note

Now, as I'm sure many of you noticed, there was a certain Incredibles/Civil War subtext here. Imagine Matt taking up the case for those Avengers not signing the Accords. I just thought to attempt applying similar themes to the MLP lore, given Daredevil's presence.