Friendship by Fire

by Ursulus Bright

Rating: everyone
Tags: Dark, Flurry Heart, Human, Princess Luna, Drama, Mystery, Starlight Glimmer, Fluttershy, Violence, Crossover, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 107547

The Man Without Fear is about to face new trials by fire, while forming strong bonds with the Elements of Harmony along the way.

"You really think you can help me out? I mean, see what you can do?"
"I'm not exactly familiar with...Crystal Empire law, but I'm sure to pick it up readily. So long as I have the proper source material to compensate?"
"Compensate for what, exactly? And what's with the stick and shades you got there?"
"Well, let me put it to you this way. What color are you?"
"Uh, hello! Rainbow. Dash? Seriously, are you like color blind, or something?"
"Something. Though, more like everything."

Matt Murdock finds himself no longer in a world on fire, but one of vibrant, indescribable energy. He begins to adjust in this new environment, populated with talking equines. In doing so, Daredevil seeks to determine the cause of this unexpected displacement, and also strives to overcome new trials that will surely come with it. Hopefully, not on his own.

Published 2017-10-27 17:40:07 UTC
Last updated 2018-09-11 13:15:43 UTC

A Stallion's Home

Leisurely passing through the halls, she was humming a wistful tune to herself. Her uplifting trot across the floor made a rather splendid clippity-clop echo throughout the walls. Her delicate touch of the marble floor was surreal. And the scent of her perform was truly a magnificent fragrance. Even the taste of the finest gems in all Equestria were bland. Such was the elegance that was displayed by the white Unicorn before his eyes.

"Come along, Spike. We mustn't doddle any longer. You sure you have everything?"

That is, if only his eyes were not obscured. "Yep. Guh. Got all the luggage right here! Ngyuh. Huff. All...set, Rarity!"

"Thank you for your kind help, Spike. Always a gentledrake, if I ever met one."

"Any-ng-anything for the best Unicorn around."

"Thanks, again. Now, you mind taking those to the foyer, while I check to see how Fluttershy's coming along?"

"Not at all. Nuh! Will do!" She maintained her comfortable pace towards her intended destination, as the young Dragon warily departed. Having been summoned by the Map just last night, she and Fluttershy knew the urgency of returning to Ponyville right away. The inevitable summons could not have been more convenient, so to speak. For the rest of the troupe decided that would be the best chance to return home, and to their duties and tasks, upon next daybreak.

Yes, after spending a few days searching for the stolen Amulet, without much success, shortly followed by Rainbow Dash's trial, it was time and energy heavily invested far from their homes and occupations. First morning train to depart from the Crystal Empire seemed the most sensible decision of returning to such. Hence, her need to find how her Pegasus friend was doing, so to ensure they make it to the station on time.

Although, there was no need to hurry it seemed, for she stopped near the opened door promptly. It was when she heard the soft yellow mare speaking, alongside the click of possibly her satchel strap.

"You sure you can't take the time of explaining to us, on the way there?"

"Believe me." She rose her brows sharply at Daredevil's voice. "There's a whole lot more needed to be said than a simple stroll to the station."

"Well, perhaps a little, tid-bit of information? A small sample, like Rarity might say?"

"Perhaps. That might actually be a sound notion. There's just...so much." His hoarse whisper at the end made the Unicorn wonder greatly. "I'm not exactly sure where to start."

"How about...well, your...?"

"My Dad?"

"That's how I got to understand you a bit."

"Well, it involves that. Along with the nature of my disability."

"You mean, how it happened? As in, you weren't born with it?"

"I'm surprised no one has asked me that yet. But no, I wasn't."

"That must've been terrible. Losing your sight. How old were you?"

"Nine. Just happened out of nowhere, when a speeding...wagon of sorts nearly crashed on an elder crossing the road. I was close enough to push him away in time."

"A miracle you weren't hurt too badly, either."

"I'd like to say it's providential, also. But it wasn't the collision that caused this. But what was being carried. Barrels of toxic chemicals spilled onto the road, and got into my eyes. That's when the lights went out for me. But things only just started, from there."

"Meaning?"

"Meaning the chemicals weren't just affecting my eyesight. And to best explain what I'm talking about...you remember me mention how I recognized you?"

"Um, from my soft hoofsteps? And for Pinkie, it was a spring in hers. Rainbow Dash was her flapping wings."

"Well for Miss Rarity, my recognition of her happened from several yards off. An hour ago, the moment she put it on. All while we've been in here. Conservative amount, but enough to tell. Jasmine, with lilac and rose. And for a while, the scent's been coming in. From right at the door."

A Stallion's Home

Boing! Boing! Boing! Jumping with profound excitement, the pink Earth Pony waited extra vigilantly for their upcoming train. She could not be any more jubilant about anything else, at all. At least, for the moment.

"Oh! I wonder how much longer we have to wait, (boing!) because the longer we have to wait, the more time's spent (boing!) trying to figure what friendship problem Rarity and Fluttershy have, which means I can't (boing!) figure out what kind of themes I need to do for their 'Going Away' party, and (boing!) 'Welcome Back' party yet, along with the party in Ponyville celebrating Rainbow Dash's win (boing!) at the trial, and maybe even plan a very special party for Daredevil, since, you know, we've been (boing!) so, so, so, so busy helping him help Rainbow Dash, I couldn't plan (boing!) a very special party for him, but I don't know when (boing!) he'll come down to visit, either! You know what I mean?" Boing!

"He-heh, Pinkie," her Pegasus friend answered, "I don't think we'll ever fully know what you mean."

"At least Spike, Fluttershy and Rarity still have time to get here. We're in no particular hurry, so this'll be a perfect opportunity for us to recuperate during our sojourn. I'm just glad things are starting to settle down a bit, now."

"I'll say, Twi. I mean, sure we weren't able to get that Amulet back to Zecora like we wanted, and it seems like we'll be doing ourselves some more searching for it, since that tracing spell of yours got blocked. ...Uh, he-heh. What I'm trying to say is, you're right in saying we best use this time to let things settle some. 'Specially after that, there hearing."

"You think Daredevil might come by, to see us off? No pun intended."

"Considering he wants to start his own investigation here, Rainbow Dash, I wonder if he might want to do so, right away."

"Yeah. A very straight-up, solid guy, to do something like that for us."

"You bet, Rainbow. And he said he'd give us any o' them updates, right Twilight?"

"He will have Cadence or Shining send them to Spike, so I can receive them as quickly as possible. He also seemed genuinely intrigued by that notion."

"Maybe because of how Spike is able to belch out letters and scrolls and things, and send out letters and scrolls and things with his green dragon-breath! I mean, I've been dying to learn that trick, since the first time I saw him do it!"

"Yeah, let's not try to picture that, Pinks. Still, not really a good way to end things here. You know, without telling him 'See you later, alligator?' Sorry, guess he kind of rubbed off on me a little."

"Aw! That's okay, Dashie! I think it's great to know how he helps other ponies from getting uncomfortable around his disability! By always making a quick laugh, and having pun with it!"

"Yep. Recon Pinkie nailed that, right on the dot. I recall him telling me, Twilight and Fluttershy how he don't like being treated like he's made o' glass. Got nothing but respect for a pony like that."

"Besides," Pinkie added, "I don't think you have to worry about not saying goodbye for long."

"What? Is your Pinkie Sense somehow telling you he's coming?"

"Nope," she answered Rainbow, "I just see him coming with Rarity, Spike and Fluttershy, is all."

"And I am still appalled by how you allowed me to be put in that sort of situation," she heard the white Unicorn huff.

He simply shrugged, "Just thought two birds with one stone." Whoop!

"Well that's a silly thing to think!" Pinkie popped right up to the stallion. "I mean, what's a stone got to do with two birds, in the first place? Would the birds be sharing it? And why wouldn't they want to share it? And what would birds want with a stone, anyway? Unless it's really an egg disguised as a stone!"

"Hello to you too, Pinkie," he chuckled, pensive at first.

"And what'd you mean when you said he got you into a situation, Rarity? What kind of situation?"

"Oh, um, w-well...I suppose that'd be something we-I-I mean somepony wishes to address. Not really my place to say."

"But you just said something about it, a couple seconds ago," spoke Rainbow Dash, now as curious as the rest.

"Is something the matter," asked Twilight.

"Depends on how you look at it," Spike uttered, earning a glare of annoyance from her. Before any more could be said, however, they all heard more voices coming up.

"Good!"

"You see, Flurry? We didn't miss them!"

"Shining! Cadence! Flurry Heart!" In response, Twilight happily shared a warm embrace with them.

"We were worried we'd miss seeing you off," her brother said.

"Flurry was getting upset she hadn't seen you this morning."

"Ah-eh. Bwefv."

"I'm sorry, Flurry," she tended to her niece with an assuring smile, "Auntie Twilight doesn't want to miss saying goodbye either. We just got so busy packing up in such a hurry-"

"That you almost forgot me, too?" A pair of Unicorns, one light violet, the other orange, also joined them.

"Starlight, of course not. I just - wait. I didn't know you were staying here longer."

Showing her lack of satchel, she answered, "At first, I wasn't. But then I decided that I could be more helpful in finding the Amulet here. You know. Since we now know other Unicorns are involved, I figured Counselor Daredevil's going to need all the help he can get in helping to find it, and them."

"I assured Miss Glimmer that I can manage things here well enough."

"Maybe, Counselor. But I still think I can do my part here too. I mean, Shining, Cadence and Sunburst won't be readily available to help anytime soon."

"She does raise a valid point," her friend added, "And I have more responsibilities and tasks, aside from my Crystaller position."

"Nopony should take on a hard task on their own," said the lavender Alicorn.

"Heh, and 'specially take it from somepony who knows, Sugarcube."

"True," announced the upcoming regents, through Celestia's graceful voice, "Princess Twilight is correct, Counselor. Be sure you know that you now have good friends to turn to."

"We're here to do whatever we can," said Starlight.

Then Sunburst again, "And I'll try to make time, and assist in whatever way as well."

"Thank you, Miss Glimmer. Mister Sunburst."

"Mage Sunburst," she corrected him. "He's still too modest."

"And we heard of your help with that farmer, Fluttershy," continued the solar regent, "We hope the delivery was fruitful."

"Oh, yes. Thank you, Celestia. We were worried of how ill the sheep was, at first. But now she and her new lamb seem perfectly healthy."

"Very good news to hear," Luna joined, "And before we depart ourselves, I wish to take you aside, Counselor, and speak privately about a certain matter. A proposition also, should you express interest."

"Uh, sure," he nodded towards the regent's direction. "Yeah. Yes, Highness. Hopefully, I can talk to the rest of you about something also. Eventually. It's...going to take more time than I've got to explain."

"Don't fret, darling. Rest assured we'll be ready for all you have to tell us."

"And it'll be yours only to tell," added Fluttershy, with genuine resolve. "Hopefully, the next time we meet."

"Thank you. I...I hope so too. Just know that I really do want to try, and be totally upfront with all of you. And I don't want to repeat past transgressions, either. So for now, just...just know that I was-"

CHOO-CHOO!

"So," the Unicorn mare spoke up, as they returned to the city, "Mind if I ask what Princess Luna wanted to talk about?"

"It's more of a personal issue she's offering to help with," answered the Earth Pony.

"Oh, right. Princess of the Night. Keeper of Dreams. Got you. I have to wonder though, what's it like to dream without sight?"

"Well, basically it's your subconscious projecting certain thoughts, memories and feelings through the other senses. Nothing too elaborate."

"Still doesn't make it any less intriguing," noted the orange Unicorn. "Certainly broadens the range of variety, I should think."

"Never thought of it that way."

"So, any idea what your first plan of action's going to be, Counselor Daredevil?"

"Well, Miss Glimmer, I just sent a written request to Councilpony Cinch for an appointment. See if we could meet and uncover more info about Rider's connection to Limeston-light. As for his old friend from Canterlot, his identity and current whereabouts are still unknown. Hopefully, Cinch would be willing to help with that."

"I don't doubt it, Counselor," Cadence spoke from up front, "Considering her former employee framed her the way he did, I'm sure she wants to find the truth of the matter also."

"You're saying she removed Rider from her employ, Princess?"

"That's what she said the argument was about. The day after she did. But what about your lodgings, Counselor? I meant to ask, since you intended to begin your firm here, in the Empire."

"Actually, I was hoping to start examining prospects on the side, last week. But no such opportunity, I'm afraid. But considering how much you all dispensed for my legal actions - excessively, in my opinion, but still grateful - funds shouldn't be an issue."

To hear his chuckle made everypony smirk also.

"Twilight and the others, most especially Rainbow Dash, thought it was suitable to pitch in," Cadence interjected.

"Yeah, trust us, buddy," Shining replied, "The way you've stepped up to help my sister's friend like that, you more than deserved that extra cushion for a new start."

"And what a start to your firm it was," gleamed the cloaked stallion, "Defending an Element of Harmony, against one of the most proficient, and intimidating ponies in such a practice."

"So calmly too, I might add," said Starlight. "It's a wonder we've never heard about you in Manehattan, before."

"I...mainly took care of civil cases, when I first started out. Minor, but still helpful to the locals who needed it. ...Actually, it might help to answer-"

"Oh, Shining," the pink Alicorn gasped, "Can't believe we forgot to introduce him to Flurry."

"Well, when could we," he remarked, "Everypony was too busy with the trial, it just never came up."

"Counselor," she stopped, once they reached the city square, "Would you like to...?"

"Yeah, sure. If I may, Highness."

Levitating the filly with her light blue aura, Cadence placed Flurry into Daredevil's reaching hooves. Making contact, he drew Flurry in, as she waved her own around giggling.

"Ha-heh! Wevwooeef!"

"She certainly sounds...sophisticated."

"Told you," Cadence whispered to her husband. Seeing Daredevil rub his hoof against Flurry Heart's belly prompted a laugh from her, which made him widely grin back.

"Sounds healthy, too."

"You sure have a way with foals, don't you," the light violet Unicorn smiled.

"Abvff!" They then saw the filly playfully rub his muzzle. Her forelegs and wings brushing against his face, as she removed his red spectacles with her golden magic. To all this, he simply chuckled.

"Guess I've just developed this thing for little tikes. From helping out at the orphanage, I suppose."

"Orphanage," Starlight and Sunburst asked.

"Yeah, the uh...caretakers there let me assist wherever I could. You could say I developed a good ear for what they needed."

"You ever, uh...?"

"Lived there? Yes, Mage Sunburst. Raised, in fact."

"I'm so sorry I brought it up."

"Don't worry, Miss Glimmer," he answered, still smiling. "It's fine. They were very good to me, and I learned to always take comfort in blessings all around me. Especially others'."

"It's too bad I don't remember meeting a colt like you. When Aunt Celestia took me to visit orphan homes in Manehatten. But that was a long time ago."

"Must've been sick at the time, Princess," he shrugged back, though grimaced. As Shining then lifted the filly with his crimson magic, Starlight brought Daredevil's lenses back with her own, blue glow. "Thanks."

"Don't mention it."

Strolling through the polished, gem floors, he felt the echoes of their hoofsteps vibrate all around, and into his eardrums. The surroundings still leave him in wonderment at the palace's, and the city's very nature. Never mind the structure. It was not so much the solid, crystal material used to build them, as much as the pure energy resonating inside. Again, it never ceased to amaze him.

What struck a chord with him now, however, was how willing they all strove to befriend him. Even the two mares and young Dragon, who began to know more about him on their way to the station. They did not seem so perturbed by it, nor less receptive of him. More so, in fact, especially Spike. And even though they all started to board their train rather quickly, he could sense their sincerity of speaking with him next, and even looking forward to see him again. Now he truly wondered how better things would have been, between himself and Foggy starting out. Even Karen, and the others. Hopefully, he will be back to both his friend, and lifelong partner soon enough.

"We're also more than happy to have you, until you find a place, Counselor," Prince Shining Armor spoke further on the last subject. "So don't worry about imposing, because we insist you feel at home here, for now."

"Thank you. Just hoping not to overstay my welcome, is all."

"We can definitely offer services in finding something, soon as possible," said his wife, "I wonder if Madame Maresbury might specially know somepony for that."

"So long as it's no trouble to Your Majesties."

"Not at all, Counselor. And if you'd like, you can just call us by name. Don't want to you to feel uncomfortable, or left out by constantly being formal with us."

"Not sure that's prudent," he smirked, "Considering I might form personal ties with possible clients."

"Councilpony Cinch already beat you to that punch, buddy," was the Prince's smug retort. "Sorry to say that."

"Not my loss, it seems."

"Good answer," was her response. "Besides, if we felt a need to, we could form our own case."

"Good to know, Highn-um, Cadence."

"Yeah," he heard Starlight Glimmer join, "Was getting tired of calling you Counselor all the time, myself."

"Like the title, though. How it sounds, anyway."

"Just Daredevil alone sounds good enough for me, bud."

"If you insist, Starlight. ...Then perhaps this might be a good-"

"Oh, Cadence! Shining Armor!" Sunburst's hooves then clip-clopped hastily towards the Royal Family. "I just remembered! The Crystal Mage's Conference commences in an hour, and it's too late to cancel my reservation!"

"But we've got the Crystal Council in an hour," Cadence responded, the sound of her ruffled feathers anxiously brushed against her.

"I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I'm unavailable for that."

"Then who's going to watch Flurry for us?" Upon Shining's nervous enquiry, he heard the Unicorn mare step up from beside him.

"We can help with that. As in myself and Daredevil."

"I'm sorry?"

"Mm-hm."

"Uh, she nodded," said Sunburst, "just so you know."

"Yes." Her sudden urge to act was voiced rather clearly. "I'm sure Daredevil and I could keep an eye - I mean, take care of Flurry Heart for a while."

"Eeyacch," their daughter shouted gleefully.

"Alright, I know I said earlier about my experience with small ones," the blind Earth Pony fumbled slightly, "But that's been a long time ago, and I hardly qualify taking care of...an Alicorn foal."

"That's what I'm here for," Starlight beamed near him, as they traversed down the hall with the Royal Family and Crystaller. "I can be the set of eyes that uses magic to keep her steady, while you be my extra set of ears to keep tabs on her when she naps."

"And that should be the main thing to worry about," said Sunburst, "Flurry Heart enjoys a good nap about this time, and that ranges between an hour and two."

"Which is the majority of the time spent, while Sunburst's away," Cadence added, "So that will be perfect for you to orient yourself in that environment, and also rest your legs."

"So that when she wakes up," continued her husband, "you'll know exactly where things are, for whenever you need them."

"Piece of cake," puffed the Unicorn mare, "Though Pinkie would argue that's more Pumpkin and Pound's turf." Seeing raised brows from Daredevil, she offered, "I know. Didn't get that at first, either. It's got to do with their last name being Cake. Uh, twin foals in Ponyville."

"Ah."

"But don't worry. After spending the past week helping Sunburst with her, I'll be able to walk you through it."

"That's not so much the issue for me, as much as what my presence-"

"Whoa-whoa! Steps." Seeing the others go down, she stood aside for him to reach the wall for support. But Starlight noticed Daredevil simply standing there, instead of moving forward.

"Starlight Glimmer," he began, "I think this is a good chance to explain a few things."

"Yeah, I know. Don't worry about it. Fluttershy told me what you said, about made of glass."

"N-no. That's not it. It's more about my...hesitance of what I need to tell you. I...I've known about the steps."

"Yeah, I'm sure. You've traveled down these halls all week to be familiar-"

"No, not just familiar. Not even that. But I'm completely-"

"You two coming down," shouted back Shining Armor.

"Be right the-" Smack. Just then, her raised hoof knocked the staff from his wielding foreleg, sending it pang-bat-tingalingalingaling down, to the bottom. "Oh, I'm so sorry! Here, let me..."

"That won't be-" Levitating it with a blue, glittering field, Starlight returned the red staff into Daredevil's pastern. "...necessary."

"I'll...go on ahead." Awkwardly trotting downwards, the mare cringed with embarrassment. So much so, she was totally oblivious to the stallion's bereavement for his two, failed attempts.

She was baffled by her sudden drive to help him, just after her acknowledgment of how he felt about that. It was one thing to feel so unsure of how to make friends, albeit less so since Twilight. But it became another to find the right way of being considerate to newly made ones. Disabled, or not. Now, with this seemingly the hardest conundrum she had faced, Starlight found herself dealing with those three things, combined. Her social awkwardness, how to act, and with a blind pony. She was downtrodden, and wondered how even Trixie could help in this situation.

For the moment, the Unicorn simply decided to keep her mind off the matter. Instead, she finally wondered how it was they had to go up into the main hall of the palace, then down a flight of steps to reach their destination. "This place's even weirder than Twilight's castle."

"And, here we are." Upon the pink Alicorn's announcement, they entered the intended chamber. Arranged as a nursery, it contained the various items of a crib, rocking chair, numerous rag dolls and stuffed animals, building blocks, small books, and so on.

"Okay," Starlight began, "Soon as they finish putting Flurry down, I'll direct you to - I mean, we'll get started on getting things in order." She cringed more deeply, at how delicate that sounded.

"Sure," nodded Daredevil, "So long as you're keeping an eye on the kid, while I get to work on that."

Hearing his comical retort, she sniggered back, "That was the general idea. Unless you want to switch roles, for today."

"Like to keep the pants in the family, thank you." They shared a hearty laugh between themselves, which made her appreciate his efforts to lighten things.

Having that obstacle behind them, he started to navigate himself around the room, his staff against the walls that bordered it. Accepting he might not hurdle his current predicament when he wanted to, the gold-yellow stallion decided to simply allow events to unfold as they were. Therefore, he found it best to maintain his...façade, so to speak, until the correct opportunity arose. And he had every intention of being attentive to that, as with his and Starlight's charge for today.

"Alright," started Shining Armor in a hushed tone, "Flurry's starting to go down, so I'll start with the basic essentials."

"Don't worry Shining," Starlight answered in kind, "I got this."

"Oh, right. Then I'd say you're definitely in good hooves, Daredevil."

"So long as we know it's the case for Flurry. Thank you."

"No, thank you Daredevil," Cadence quietly spoke, "for helping to look after our angel."

"You wanted to use that for a while, didn't you?"

"Couldn't resist," she answered the Unicorn Prince.

"At least I know I can try giving you your money's worth here, also."

"You already have. And thanks again to you, Starlight." As Cadence, her husband, and Sunburst made their gentle exits, the Earth Pony made his own, quiet steps toward the supply cupboard. Upon touching the wooden door, he sensed the items inside through the vibrations emitted from the crystal walls. He made a mental list, as Starlight whispered it in sync.

"Alright. Cleaning supplies and diapers to the left, bottles and formulas in the middle, and-"

"To the right, I'm guessing pea soup, bowls and spoons?"

"How'd you get that?"

"Same order my guardians arranged it," he chuckled, reminiscing. "Who'd have thought?"

"Well...that's a good sign. And just remember that rocking chair, about twelve paces from your right. Next to the crib."

"Okay." Opening the doors, he brushed his hoof against the contents. "And the counters? Changing table?"

"Oh, um, say ten and fifteen paces past the chair. Table's furthest to the left."

"Thanks."

"No problem. Always good to be properly prepared. Even if it's last minute."

"Yeah. Definitely hate to go in a situation blind."

"Oh-ho-okay," she chuckled also, "That's taking the puns a bit, too far."

"Out of sight, out of mind?"

"Crossing a line there, pal." She was fighting to keep her tone down.

"Can you blame me for not spotting it?"

"Yes. Because you know it's metaphorical."

"Oh, well. Guess you blindsided me, with that one."

"Just where'd you get all those, anyway?"

"My...my old partner. And best friend." To maintain a chipper tone, he kept his smile. "We studied law together. Was my roommate even. Called him Foggy."

"Why, because you thought he's dense?"

"Actually, no. I knew him to be one of the brightest in the class. Very crafty and cunning too, when he wanted. Traits you'd expect from an actual attorney."

"Then why...?"

"Because of how loudly he slept."

"Oh."

"Called him the Living Foghorn. Had a good sense of humor too, that he let me."

"Sure it was his sense of humor?"

"Oh, now don't try to make a case for him," he sassed back, catching her comical implications. "Where else you think I got the puns?"

"Got me there. Though it's your word against his."

"So, that helped?"

"With what?"

"Getting comfortable." Closing the cupboards, he turned from them and stared blankly in Starlight's direction. He could pick up the release in tension from her spine and ligaments that he had no need to ask. Not to mention her breathing was more relaxed.

"I...huh. Guess it did. Thanks."

"Don't mention it."

"Really helps to remember I'm just talking to another, ordinary pony, I guess."

"Yeah. Right." Moving towards the wall, he decided to rest his haunches against it. He took a deep breath through his snout, before releasing it through his elongated lips.

"What about you?"

"Me?"

"No, Flurry Heart. She just woke up to join in our conversation."

"If she did, I'd be the first to know."

"Right. If I weren't watching her also."

"Possibly."

"So how are you adjusting to things here," she rephrased. Inhaling deeply again, he pondered on his response.

"I mean, it's got to be really tough," she continued, "To leave everything and everypony you once knew behind, and start all over. I've trotted down that road before, believe me."

"It's...very taxing, to be sure," he confessed. It then reminded him of looking into classes by mail. Transcript, of course. That would ensure he was legitimately certified here. No telling how long he will be gone. "Let's just say there's quite a bit on my plate, than I'd like. Best I could do about it, right now, is to not bite more than I can chew. Just play it by ear."

"Okay, that was the worst attempt I've heard, so far."

"You prefer sight reading? At least those had musical connotations. Pinkie would be proud."

"Oh-ho yeah. Pinkie and all her witty, crazy, obnoxious songs."

"Though endearing."

"Right, sure. Endearing. With a wild, spontaneous...eccentric side."

"Aren't we all?"

"Maybe. Just not at that level."

"Perhaps not. But somepony has to. Help keep us going."

"Yeah. One way, or another."

"Yeah."

"Though Rarity conducts a...quintet? Fluttershy's in it too, so they'd know about musical terms also."

"I hope to hear them, sometime."

Considering there was little else left they wished to discuss at the moment, Starlight had decided to examine a volume she brought with her. When promptly asked if he wanted to hear from it, seeing he had nothing to help him pass time, the gold-yellow Earth Pony accepted the offer. The fact that a nap was inappropriate for this given situation, he thought it best to be on high alert for the Alicorn filly.

So, by keeping aware through his senses, while also gaining a further understanding of this world, he listened to the Unicorn mare reading under her breath. Surprisingly, the terminology being used resembled that of a physicist he once knew during a civil case. And strangely enough, it blended somewhat with a few mystic terms slightly similar to the Catechism. But not enough to warrant too much attention in that area, given how easily tangible magic was throughout this world. Unlike the secluded places where Stephen, a...an old client, would reside. Maybe someone he knew was involved in this, if not responsible.

He took great comfort in doing something not in his routine of clientele by day, gangsters-and-assassins by night. If anything, he welcomed the change of pace, as well as the company that it entailed.

Although he was relieved to find others willing to fully associate with him, for who he was someday, he seemed more at ease today with Starlight Glimmer, than the rest. Not so far as to delve deeply into it, but the opposite actually. He could tell there was more to her than what she had told him, but was keeping her reservations of opening up about them. He not only could respect that, but also sympathize with it. A kindred spirit, of a sort. Knowing it was good to express oneself at times, while aware of other times not to.

Yes, there was Princess Twilight who was studious, logical and level-headed. The last can be said for Applejack also, but more casually reserved. And Fluttershy's own reservation was gentle. But it seemed this pony was more reluctant in sharing about herself, than even those three. Not for fear of judgment or unwanted attention, but for the sake of maintaining an air of peace within, and without. That this was a perfect time to make that sort of retreat, where one could simply rest, relax and recover.

It was almost as though he met another like Ben Urich, who counterbalanced the passionate enthusiasts like Pinkie and Dash, the latter reminding him of Foggy most. Perhaps Applejack and Fluttershy would enjoy this also, though maybe not be in the same...subtext. He doubted Rarity could fit best in either of those categories, but somewhere in between.

So, with him leaning against the wall, and she sitting near the room's center, they passively enjoyed each other's presence. He sensed the energy emanate from Starlight's horn with a subtle pitch. And as he heard the flipping of a page, he detected a smaller volume of energy, along with the ruffling of sheets and feathers.

"Starlight."

"...at which point, the catalyst transcends the-what?"

"The crib." Both rising from their respective spots in the room, they approached it with swift care. Much to his surprise, he already sensed it empty, before joining the Unicorn there.

"Uh, oh. She's at it again."

"What," he asked her, "What happened?"

"She teleported," she sighed in answer, "Now she's playing hide-and-go-seek with us."

"What do you suggest?"

"You get things ready, while I go find her. I can trace where that spell sent her, so no worries."

"Get things like-" Bling. Poof. In a cloud of exuberant dust, he sensed Starlight's presence gone also. Tuning into the vibrations that pulsed through his hooves, and shifting his ears to listen, he sought to know where they might have gone. He had smelled prior to this, so he doubted he needed a new diaper at this moment. At that, he decided to focus on whether he could detect that energy's small signature to locate Flurry. That same resonance that removed his tinted lenses this morning.

Picking up the satchel lying next to the crib, he approached the cabinet with all the supplies. He remained attentive, as he packed the essentials, including a diaper for the potential future.

"Where'd you go, you little rascal?" Upon hearing that familiar voice, he sharply turned and tilted his head. "Where are you? I know you're here, somewhere?"

"Hee-hee-hih. Bvf!"

"Oh! There you are!"

"Ha-ha-ha-ha! Wif-bvvvvv!" He picked up on the sudden gust of air in that vicinity, while Starlight's hooves trailed after that shifting current. Poof-bling!

"I'm coming to get you!" What he detected next truly caught his attention. Pulling off his glasses, grabbing his staff, and latching the satchel onto him, he hastily left the room. While he followed the projected trail of magic, air movement and hoof beats, the Earth Pony went to a near gallop.

"I'm going to get you!" "Ah-ha-ha-ha!" Poof-poof!

They both had teleported frequently, but shared a general direction. And that same destination was exactly where he needed to be. He knew the best way to intercept was from above. Approaching a window, he tap-tapped his staff against the frame. After doing so, he struck against its weakest point, causing it all to tilt off the sill in one piece. Then he gently, but quickly removed the glass from its frame. Bling-bling!

Climbing onto the window sill, he leaned over with his detaching staff. Swinging it outward, the whooshing of the split rod, and zing of the cable inside extended further out. Until he sent it directly through an opened window, ten floors above.

"Okay, come here. Got you! Now let's get back-hey!"

"Hap-veh-heh!" Bling!

"Right. No letting up." Poof!

Ting-clink. His nun chuck was able to grapple against the frame, before it could fall out. Placing the other end into his strengthened jaw, he took hold of the cable and climbed.

Knock-knock-knock! "Majesties, there's an urgent matter that calls your attention!"

"Excuse us," Cadence told the Council, as she and her husband made their way to the door.

"What's going on, Captain," asked Shining, after opening it.

"That cloaked pony," he firmly answered, nearly in shout, "The one with two red sticks and string Miss Fluttershy described last week. A pony matching that description is scaling the palace, now! Only, not cloaked!"

"Steady yourself, Captain Sentry," Shining Armor stated, as the trio departed from the chamber.

"Start from the beginning," Cadence asked.

Reaching the grappled window, he removed his nun chuck from there, and planned for another swing. He could hear the Jetstream directly above even more clearly, and the gusts this altitude were picking up speed. No telling how unstable they were at the peak. Before he could find something else to hook onto, however, he heard what he dread would happen.

BLING! "Ha-ha-ha!"

"No! Flurry Heart, you come down here, this instant!" The flapping, infantile wings were far, too weak for that Jetstream. Once caught in its path, he heard them losing rhythm, and the air resistance of a stalling object came his way. "FLURRY!"

Timing it based on the mental image of her falling form, he leapt from the window sill, and dove directly towards the Alicorn filly. He wrapped his forelegs around her flailing limbs, and tightly held onto her. Slowing his own fall, he somersaulted. With one hoof keeping her close, he used the other to pull his staff from his mouth, and send one end of it towards the solitary balcony. Whew-oo-ooo-oo-oo! Clink.

Wrapped around the banister, he had the cable recoil, barely in time, to swing away from the oncoming pavement. Poof! Bee-yur!

Sensing a high pitch, and a dust cloud envelop his nun chuck, he felt himself and Flurry quickly pulled back up.

"Oh my gosh! Is she okay?!" Once there, he checked the foal's pulse and vitals, and answered Starlight.

"Just had a pretty bad scare, but she seems fine. Though, you might need this." Tossing the satchel towards the Unicorn, he climbed off the banister, and rocked the whimpering Flurry Heart. With one leg as the sling, he began to coo her gently, as she curled up and bawled.

"Sh-sh-sh. It's alright. You're safe. We'll get you to your mama and daddy, right now. They're just around the corner. Everything will be okay. Shh."

Hearing their arriving gallops, he gathered they viewed briefly from a nearby window, for he picked up their own racing pulses. Turning his head their way, he stared blankly towards the Prince and Princess on approach. Gently offering their daughter to them, they levitated her with energy from both their horns. Swiftly, though gently, they made for a tight, warm embrace, to which he smiled.

After a prolonged, tender moment or so, he sensed all eyes directed unto his unresponsive pair. He felt the air shift, from an armored Pegasus hovering behind him. Raising front hooves, sitting down, and calmly tilting his head to the rejoined staff, he spoke in submission, "Guess I should turn that in."

It was unthinkable. Unimaginable. Unbelievable. Inconceivable. Nearly indescribable. Yet she witnessed it all, right before her frightened eyes. Her pupils had been narrow for so long, or so brief, she was not even sure how much time had passed.

After seeing Flurry Heart take a nosedive to the road, Starlight was swift in teleporting herself in midair, and floating directly below the filly's plummeting form. She just failed to expect anything remotely like what happened next. Who would not?

The light violet Unicorn just saw the blind Earth Pony leap from a high window, and dove right towards the little Alicorn. She quickly noted the he was without any lifeline, himself, and hoped to reach for both with her magic. But all that concentration, so spontaneous, and all that wind, became too taxing for her, that she lost her own levitation momentarily. Regaining it, she watched in horror, until she saw his staff extend outward and lasso onto the balcony railing. Unsure if he would stop their fall in time, she spurred on, and teleported to the balcony, tugging the line upward.

With the Royal Family arriving back from the Council, and Captain Sentry standing vigilantly at the door of the nursery with Sunburst, she took a brief glance towards Daredevil, and confirmed to herself, once again, that his eyes were not responding, at all. Just the tilt of his head and flick of his ear showed his awareness of Cadence and Shining's return with Flurry.

"How is she," he and Sunburst asked.

"Asleep now," soothingly answered the pink Alicorn, "Cried herself down, on our way back."

"I am so sorry," Starlight began, "I completely forgot about a second pony to back me up, in case!"

"You have nothing to be sorry about," her orange Unicorn friend responded.

"You did your absolute best," added Shining, as he watched Cadence tuck their daughter in. "And thankfully, no harm's been done."

"And you did have backup," she joined her husband, "Again, thankfully." Once they reunited, everypony's attention turned to the sitting stallion, who blindly faced their direction. Captain Sentry kept his silent position, remaining attentive for what might unfold.

"Which brings us to the main issue at hoof," Cadence continued. After a momentary pause, Starlight watched this scene release tension, as the Princess calmly approached Daredevil, and tearfully embraced him. "Thank you. Thank you, very much."

Perplexed, Starlight watched him blink sporadically, with a hitched breath. "It-It's nothing, Princess. I'm sure Miss Glimmer would've caught her, if I hadn't intervened."

"That may be," she replied, pulling back from him, "But you still...laid down your own...newfound life and career, for...my daughter's safety."

"Our daughter," Shining came up to him also, his height overshadowing the Earth Pony's slightly, "Maybe you didn't have too. But you still chose to help in any way possible, just in case. If you doubted it before, then know you more than gave us our bits' worth."

Seeing the white Unicorn clasp onto the gold-yellow Earth Pony's shoulders, he reached into a heartfelt embrace also. "Thanks, a whole lot, buddy."

"You're welcome...Shining."

Nothing else was said, or could be said after that, as Starlight watched the two stallions separate with genuine, brotherly smiles between them. Seeing how Daredevil has joined in this small unit, she prompted Sunburst to come with her and share in the moment.

"Glad to know there's extra help around here," she remarked, patting him on the back, "You sure live up to your name too, bud. Like a maniac."

"I'll say," exclaimed Sunburst, "From what Starlight told me, you certainly know how to give others quite a shock!"

"Bringing us to our next subject," said a recovered Cadence, "Mister Rider, though unkind to Fluttershy, was terribly mistreated under Shining's and my jurisdiction."

"I can only anticipate your response to my vigilantism."

"On our way back," Shining began, looking at his wife, "We agreed that so long as you're under our supervision, promising us not to act in that manner anymore here, we will tell everypony so, and that your identity will remain unknown, until your say. All anypony else saw was a speck climbing the castle walls, and a blur swinging over the road."

"We know you want to do your best, and help others. And you have. Just...be sure to quickly render threatening ponies...nonlethal. And only when the time calls for it. Leave the rest for Captain Sentry and his Guards."

"You both have my word, I'll do my best," he nodded, after mildly shocked again.

"And there's also so much we don't know about you," Cadence continued, "Tyat you have many questions to answer for us."

"Of course, I'll do so-"

"All in due time," Shining finished for him, "We still have a lot to do, and the same for you also. So, just be ready for when that happens."

"Also, it seems somepony's already offered to help with that, in some way."

Upon the rosy mare's final comment, Starlight Glimmer saw Daredevil smile at the departing ponies.

"And before we forget..." the Unicorn Prince tilted his head in gesture, to which the orange Pegasus responded. Retrieving the red staff, the Captain placed it into Daredevil's grasping hoof, as though he knew from where to grab it. At that, Captain Sentry stiffly reached back for something else.

"Personal effects from your quarters, also." Seeing him reach to grab the small pouch as before, Starlight watched his hoof brush against the unseen contents, head still raised.

"Thanks, Captain," he spoke with satisfaction. Sentry then departed with the Royal Couple, leaving the Earth Pony with Starlight and Sunburst to care for Flurry Heart.

Then, in a final moment of curiosity, she decided to wave her hoof in front of him. Seeing his brown-hazel orbs still unmoving, she saw his brows raised instead. He asked her, "You're finished yet?"

"Y-yeah. Sorry." Sunburst could only chuckle at her expense, right after.

"AAaahahahah!" The poor infant's cry slowly faded, as though the little one were being taken. The smell of warm fluid filled the air, as if it were fuming, molten iron. Small, hot, brass casings were felt all over the stone floor, engulfed with the smell of lit fuses. But reaching for the one thing that mattered at the moment, he shakily picked up her limp neck, and brought her close. No sound from her lips. No heartbeat. Just her skin getting cold to his touch.

"Karen. Karen. Karen, please. Don't go! Not you, too! PLEASE!"

All things then faded away, leaving only the dwindling pain to float aimlessly, once again. However, instead of waking, an all-enveloping, soothing presence dwindled the condemning flames, and lessened the gravity that pulled him down.

The calming scent of lavender answered his desperate prayer further. It soon filled his mind, now weightless, as the energy causing this offered him a brief moment of comfort in such dreadful times. Like the moon, refracting her sister's light softly onto the darkened world. Only, in his case, it felt as though a running stream coolly, gently massaged his aching, burning soul.

"I am here, Master Murdock," her voice gracefully announced. "What say you, to my offer?"

"I accept," he answered immediately, though calmly, "Praise God for providing some form of therapy, right now. Soâ€¦thank you, Princess."

"Please, call me Luna."

Heaving a deep, refreshing sigh, he answered, "Call me Matt."

The Game's Ahoof

"You're not peeking, are you?"

"If it's any consolation, Starlight," he replied smugly, "nearly nothing escapes my notice."

"I'm not talking about the place," she still teased. Hearing the tinkle of energy engulf the door, along with a creaking noise, he sensed her take a step back so he may go first. Bringing his staff forward, he gingerly made his entrance. He could pick up the reserved tension of anxiety throughout the Unicorn's movements and breathing.

"Well, what do you think?" Deciding to humor her, the stallion noted aloud what he could pick up, brushing his hoof against whatever he passed.

"Well, let's see. Office desk in front of the door, along with the essentials inside. What I can gather, a...Bridle transcription key, set for a typewriter. Haven't touched one of those in a while. Needed furniture, accessories and appliances for the adjacent bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. Starting to remind me of a P.I.'s establishment, I once visited. Moving to said kitchen...supplies in the cupboards and fridge, and for a good length of time too."

"And?" Her giddiness did not require any further notice.

"Uh...easy access to the main road, with a clear pathway back to the Crystal Palace, whenever needed there. As for the neighboring Crystal Ponies, definitely picking up a positive view of interest, based on whispered gossip I heard while passing."

"Um, try not to indulge on that too much. Not very neighborly to eavesdrop. And so soon, I might add."

"Like failed surprises, with my senses it happens."

"And...you never said anything?"

At that, he shrugged, "Wouldn't want to disturb anyone with an all-aware, unintentionally nosy neighbor."

"So...if you picked up anything from anywhere, like, while at the palace...?"

"Able to just shut it out."

"Just like that?" Starlight's tone of disbelief seemed well-grounded.

"Well, except for hypersonic vibrations. I was taught well to channel certain things in, and out. Like a sort of...natural, sense filter. If I absorb everything I can sense around me, all at once, it would hurt and drive me mad. Which actually happened, when starting out."

"Again, you never said?"

"Because, again, of others' natural response to paranoia."

"Right. So, what else you notice?" Somewhat stumped by that, he retraced his steps, and returned to his point of origin.

"Well, uh...seems everything's in order for somepony to move in, first chance they get. Including a fresh wardrobe of attire. For special occasions, I'm guessing. Will have to make a few adjustments, since the last time I tried putting on a tie." He could still recall his awkward situation involving such an accessory, that Rarity helped him with it before the trial. How one's hooves could function that way, without dexterity, was still something to be grasped.

"Giving up yet?" It seemed all that pressurized energy within Starlight was about to burst, at any second.

"Afraid so, yeah. What's the surprise?"

At that, he heard the skip in her hooves, along with a sudden whoosh of air beside him.

"Take another, thorough examination," her voice playfully leaned against his ear, in whisper. Complying, he brushed against the pieces of furniture up front again.

"What're you picking up?"

"Uh, the same desk and chairs. One, two chairs in front, for possible clients, I'm guessing. One directly behind it, for the occupant. And...another to the side."

"For somepony taking notes! Also, you might've been wondering why a desk lamp was there, to begin with. Since, you know, you don't, really need that." Sensing the flood of exuberance from the Unicorn at those statements, he connected the dots.

The Game's Ahoof

"Starlight..."

"I-I mean, sure, of course, it's there, just in case you're interested in having that sort of help around the office-your office! And your new apartment! Just for when-if you decide to have some kind of partner, associate, assistant, or something, to come by and work with you. But if you're interested, and since I'll be helping out with finding that Amulet here - in the Empire, that is - I-I just thought that offer could be made available to you. To consider. If you're interested."

Picking up her genuine sincerity, he failed to resist a genuine smile in turn. "I just might. In fact, I might even accept that offer."

"Really?! You're sure that wouldn't be any trouble to you?"

"Well, as you said, we're both on the trail for the Alicorn Amulet. This is the best way to pool our resources. Not to mention it helps to cut my paperwork in half, so to speak." Her hooves suddenly tap-tap-tap-tap-tapped against the wooden floor with giddy excitement, alongside a whinny. "Just two things."

Then they stopped. "Oh, sure. Of course. And they are?"

"Well first of all, given your lack of experience as an attorney, probably not appropriate to call you my partner. Not a secretary, or assistant either, given we'll be sharing the exact, same work load. So, best thing I can offer you is associate."

"Sure thing. So what's the second?"

"Just an honest answer. Why so keen to investigate this way? You surely have better means to do so, at the palace."

"Well..." Now it was Starlight's turn to be caught off guard. Her foreleg brushing against the floor expressed her anxiety differently. "How can I put it, in the nicest way possible? I-I do think you might be a nice, kind, considerate, um, great friend..." This prompted a smirk on his muzzle. "N-not that I don't have any doubts about that, or think that you could be evil, in any way, at all! It's just..."

"It's part of Cadence and Shining's supervision on me."

"Well, somewhat. I mean, Captain Sentry has somepony keeping track of your movements, already. But we all felt that somepony up close, a friend, could help you more, and all of us. Again, with your full consent. Don't want you to feel forced into this."

"Thanks. I appreciate that."

"That's what you asked of me, right? I mean, what kind of associate would I be?"

"True. And I don't feel forced, either. So, bud. Ready to get started?"

"Ready when you are." At that, she raised her hoof up for him. He sent his own to bop squarely against it.

"Daredevil and Glimmer, on the case! Uh, eh-heh. Probably not?"

"Maybe. Given time."

Everything he detected here, both before and after arriving, was more than impressive. But it was nothing what he expected. Yes, he knew about the regents' efforts to help find a place, but never this soon. The very next day, in fact. Even more so when he found everything arranged and furnished. It seemed magic in this world did more than reduce time and physical constraints.

"So, Rarity gave Cadence your measurements, for the seamstresses here," Starlight commented. "Found the furniture from the best crystal carver and interior designer. And appliances came from some pretty good deals by salesponies. So, basically they wanted to give you the best you deserved."

"You think they're sure about that last part?"

"Well, you know the old saying."

"Don't look a gift horse in the mouth?"

"No, smarty-pants. Actions speak louder than words."

"Depends on the perspective, I suppose."

"Talk about 'glass half-empty,'" he heard her mutter under breath, "Thought I was a downer, at times."

But despite the welcoming embrace and grateful gesture expressed by the Royal Couple, these gifts' grandeur made him uncomfortable. All this, just given to him, for two acts he would consider regular occurrence. Just acting out his profession, and scaling tall structures, both to protect others in those fields. They had greater, and more desirable effects than he could ever dream of. As if this were all too good to be true, and for him to have.

Yes, Shining and Cadence were lenient towards his intervention with Midnight Rider, and also saw a need for wary observance. But even then, it seemed far, too lenient. Had they known his full, human nature of letting the Devil out, would they be so forgiving? Perhaps they had their concerns already, and still gave him the benefit of the doubt. And the fact they asked Starlight Glimmer to go alongside the Joint Guard surveillance indirectly. It might also show their understanding to use caution with him. And the mare was more than willing to volunteer.

But the fact remained that they regarded him as a friend and unofficial family member, much like Twilight's friends, including Starlight. To the point that they did not just want some soldier blindly following orders and watching him. That they wanted to let him have a say also. To also keep him connected to them personally, through the Unicorn mare's help. All this, and knowing there was so much he needed to answer for, they wanted to ensure he would be comfortable for when he did. Now he hoped he could find the fortitude needed to repay them. Somehow.

"Just trust me when I tell you. You. More. Than. Earned this."

Starlight seemed more insistent that these kind acts toward him were not baseless. If the consistent jabbing at his chest were not enough, the mare's unwavering pitch and delivery left no more room for questions. Not even a skip in her heartbeat to show she had any reservations, or inner doubts.

"I just hope to prove you all right."

"Well, with that attitude, you just did. But, if you insist on bringing yourself down somehow about it, then you're at least off to a good start."

"For which, proving you right, or bringing myself down?"

"Depends on the perspective, I suppose." That was the thing with females, regardless of species. They seemed to be ready for anything.

All things considered, she felt this day was off to a wonderful start. Sure, he seemed reluctant, and felt undeserving of all that he received, but she hoped to lift Daredevil's spirits the way Twilight did for her. Offer a friendly hoof in support. And she felt to have done that so far, given his snorting smug to her last remark before their leaving.

"Okay," Starlight began, "First order of business is to talk to Cinch, right?"

"Like Maresbury's apparent knowledge of quick service, it seems the Councilpony set up a meet for today, in about...what's the time?

"Uh, ten past nine," she answered, after checking the square's sundial.

"Twenty minutes."

"Looks like Cadence was right about her. Wanting to know about the truth as much as we do."

"Definitely sounds that way." They had made their entrance into the main hall of the palace, and took the path directed to them by the office signs. The Unicorn walked alongside the Earth Pony towards their intended destination, stopping directly before the door. Turning the knob with her blue aura, she allowed for Daredevil to enter.

"Excuse me," he asked, after he tapped his red staff to find the secretary's desk, "We're here for an appointment with Councilpony Cinch."

"Name?"

"Counselor Daredevil."

"Councilpony Cinch will see you, shortly." The mare's nasal, droning delivery left much to be desired. Never mind her apparent lack of courtesy to even look their way. "Please have a seat."

"Thank you, Miss...?"

"You're welcome."

"Nice meeting you, Miss Yurwelcum."

"Very funny. And in case you can't read the..." Starlight could not resist a snigger at the snide glare, now a flat stupor. "Oh. It's Stonecold Fact."

"Well, very nice meeting you, Miss Fact. Take care." As he made his turn, waving his staff again to find the chairs, the light violet mare seated herself nearby. Seeing the grey Crystal Pony with white mane and tail continue with her work, tap-tap-tap-ting against the typewriter, Starlight caught sight of the pure, white snowflake with a grey 'A' at the center for her Mark.

"Kind of reminds me of Pinkie and Maud's descriptions of Limestone."

"I'm sorry?"

"Limestone Pie. Pinkie has three sisters. Maud, Marble and Limestone. Marble's said to be soft-spoken, and Limestone somewhat sour."

"Ah. Thought you were mistaking Limelight also. And what about...Maud?"

"Not so much sour, cold, distant, or unfeeling. Just...more of a clean slate. On the level. Plain."

"Hm." After hearing him describe his best friend, Foggy, Starlight found it more than fair to talk about one of her own.

"Yeah. She's got a Roctorate degree, and is examining stones in the nearby caves of Ponyville. Really exciting, once you experience it. Even Sunburst had a good time, when he came down."

"That definitely sounds interesting," he smiled lightly.

"Ever been in a cavern? Unless you never left Manehatten, before coming here."

"Actually I...I've had some experience, in that regard."

"Involving your...other talents," she asked in soft, low whisper.

"You could say that," he answered in kind. "Best not go into details, right now."

Seeing him return to a less chipper demeanor as earlier, she tried to remedy that with another subject matter. "Okay. I also know about this place called Ponehenge-"

"Councilpony Cinch will see you now."

"Counselor Daredevil, good morning to you."

"And to you also, um, may I call you Miss Cinch?"

"If it pleases you."

"Thanks for meeting on such short notice."

"Of course. Thought it appropriate, given the circumstances."

"Allow me to introduce my new associate, Miss Starlight Glimmer."

"Good morning, Miss Cinch. Nice to meet you."

"Princess Sparkle's former pupil. Your reputation precedes you."

"Uh, thanks."

"Especially after the Changeling Hive."

"Oh, okay."

"Please, have a seat." By the motioning of the light blue Unicorn's hoof, Starlight decided to take the one to Daredevil's left, as he took the right of the three. Seeing Cinch sitting back into her own behind the elaborate, glittering desk, she began. "Let me first offer my congratulations, Counselor, for your resounding success."

"Thank you, Miss Cinch. If I may, how's Mister Limelight faring? And what of Midnight Rider?"

"Still in recovery. But more steady, now that the matter's starting to settle. Seemed Miss Dash offered dispensation for his hospital stay, per Miss Fluttershy's insistence."

"That's very good news."

"As for my former employee," she continued begrudgingly, "Mister Rider was less compliant to retract his claim of my involvement."

"Does he believe he has a case against you," Starlight asked.

"Doubtful. But considering his connection to my former client, he wants to make things as difficult as possible for me. His way of revenge for my terminating him, I suppose."

"Therefore, also doubtful we can get any useful information from him."

"For the moment, Counselor, that's what it seems. I also wish to express my gratitude towards your restraint of pressing on that, during the trial. Might've even had grounds to disqualify me."

"Found that motion to be too drastic. Excessive. You could say I learned from my boxing Father to hold my punches in the ring, so to speak."

"Indeed. Signs of good form and conduct desirable in all practitioners of the law."

"May I ask the nature of Rider's termination," Daredevil continued.

"Don't see why not. He spent the previous three weeks suddenly leaving his position without say, or due cause. Not only did he arrive late to work those days, but also remained absent altogether. I approached him about it, asking for the reasons behind it. He wouldn't answer directly. Gave him two warnings, and both times he failed to comply, still tardy. Then he confronted me at my office door, the next morning. Almost as though he were the victim of terrible mistreatment."

"What was his position?"

"He was quick and thorough in gathering notes and records needed for my cases. One of the best, I felt. He was diligent in his work, prior to his abrupt misbehavior. And no, it didn't escape my notice of the similarities to Mister Limelight's actions. But I'm afraid these are all suppositions and theories based on circumstantial evidence. Even Miss Fluttershy's assault would be considered incidental, despite its connections. Two, separate incidents, without solid facts to fully bridge the two."

"Aside from their shared views about my friends," asked Starlight.

"At best, Miss Glimmer, that's minimal. I'm sure you would have once made similar expressions like theirs, at one point. So I'm afraid more is required."

"And threatening Fluttershy from testifying," she persisted.

"As I said, possibly to get back at me. Again, in need of further proof."

"Which brings us here, Miss Cinch," the Earth Pony stated, "To address this matter."

"Yeah. Did Limelight ever tell you who his Canterlot friend was?"

"Yes, Miss Glimmer, but I must ask you to seek his full consent to divulge that."

"It no longer needs to be confidential, since his case with Rainbow Dash has been closed."

"Be that as it may, Counselor, my own, personal client discretion still applies until, as said earlier, more substantial evidence is shown to disclose that. Even if it's for a separate matter. So, again, I advise you to seek his approval."

"Not unless we join your office to gather said evidence. Or, find a lack thereof."

"I'm listening."

Caught by surprise, Starlight turned towards Daredevil, who leaned onto the desk, and elaborated. "As you said, mostly theories and speculation. But we can act as your contact freelancers, with some digging of our own. We report anything and everything we uncover, between intervals of meetings, and you can decide whether such is enough to follow through with a suitable case. All while you remain, overall, bound by your privacy with clients from those outside your office, as would we. Unless, of course, the Guard has a good reason to reveal that information by default. But if no more evidence can be gathered at a certain deadline, all such information will be dropped, along with the investigation. Either scenario, it'll be your call."

At that, Cinch rested her muzzle against her hooves, leaning also. Contemplating with a low "Hmm," she eyed him deeply. After adjusting her glasses with magenta magic, she spoke. "The notion of a joint operation sounds feasible. Though unsteady, considering the overall independence implied. I'll give my considered answer in twenty-four hours. Same time."

"Thank you, Councilpony Cinch. Until then, take care." At that, the gold-yellow stallion rose, prompting the light purple Unicorn to do the same.

"Yeah, thanks Miss Cinch. Have a good day."

"Likewise, to you both."

They kept a steady pace out into the square, and made their way to the marketplace nearby. While strolling through the customers and barterers that made their rounds, the Unicorn and Earth Pony approached a certain vendor to make a purchase.

"Got to admit. Wasn't expecting you to come up with that kind of offer."

"It wasn't a gracious follow-up to a big competitor. Just a prudent act of finding common ground."

"By offering to work under her?"

"Only temporary. As I said, and she pointed out, independent freelancers. Until she deems it unnecessary to pursue the matter further with her. Assuming, of course, she accepts."

"Meaning you still keep your own firm, outside of her influence. Even if she said yes?"

"Yes, exactly. Thank you." After receiving his order from Starlight's levitation, he took a bite out of the salad wrap.

"But if she says no," she continued, as both paid the vendor. She then pulled out a notepad and pencil to write.

"We still continue our own investigation, just need to do more to find the same answers."

"Like asking Limelight about his friend, by ourselves." Finding a bench, they sat to eat, as Starlight jotted things down.

"For starters, yes. We also need to check with those he worked with, under Nephrita."

"Do you believe her, though? About saying Midnight Rider was just out to get her?"

"Judging by Cinch's unhitched breath, and steady heart rate, I'd say she was sincere in making that notion. Even I agree that might've been all there was between them. Only by learning more, though, will we be sure."

"So," she asked, as she wrote with her magic, "Even though we know a third party was involved in Rainbow Dash's case, we still need more solid evidence to make a case for that?"

After finishing a bite, he answered, "For the Guard, or any local law enforcement, they need to find a very solid reason to officially investigate. Can't pursue everything suspicious, all at once. Even then, it's not always fruitful. End up mostly worried over nothing, to begin with. That's why we're here. Despite it being a hindrance to them, at times."

"And the stolen Amulet?"

"That's being handled, but not the conspiracy angle."

She swallowed her own bite, then stopped jotting down notes. "Wait. You're saying you can tell if somepony's lying."

Seeing him stop from taking another himself, he stiffly replied, "Yeah. That's what I said basically. Before all else."

"Wow. Okay, now I fully get your notion. About being paranoid."

"Especially if it means listening to another's heartbeat, yes. Hopefully, that doesn't bother you too much."

"So long as I don't keep secrets from you, bud."

"Or, simply tell me so."

"But if we ask Limelight about his friend, wouldn't that break that so-called confidence he's got with Cinch?"

"Not unless he's willing to answer us, himself. Like Cinch said, she's bound to withhold that, even after the trial. So she doesn't help others take advantage of an old client with that info."

"But we're free to ask him, ourselves, then?"

"Yeah."

"But was he even honest then, at the trial? That he didn't know what he was really doing?"

"Sensing a release of tension from his brief, simple answer helped to know he was telling the truth."

"Okay. And that's how you knew Rider wasn't working for Cinch? Because he lied to you, that night?"

"Yes." After whispering that last question to Daredevil, did she fully drink it all in.

"Wow. I'm working with a living, walking lie detector. What would Applejack think about that, I wonder? Not to mention Twilight."

Earning a hearty chuckle from him, Starlight Glimmer allowed Daredevil to finish his snack in peace. All she could do, at this moment, was soak in everything that has been shared. She knew she might enjoy this new experience, learning from the blind attorney as Twilight did. Just not anticipating this. Consuming her own food, now Starlight anticipated this day to continue with that feeling.

It did not take too long to reach Madame Nephrita's establishment, which consisted of a mansion, a mine, and a harvesting plantation on a grand scale. For Starlight, after hearing about Pinkie's rock farm family, this took that idea to a completely new level. Although, this being the Crystal Empire, probably because it was one of their major, economic pillars.

"Please wait, while I go fetch for Mare Nephrita." Once the green, Crystal stallion departed, the pair perused the main foyer of its contents.

"What about pictures, paintings, or hanging objects? How are you, on those?"

"Visually, I'm still impaired. No way to distinguish a projected image. It's just some canvas or paper. But given time, depending on the amount of ink or substance used, touch of my hoof can give me a general idea of what's conveyed or imprinted. Hurts my head a bit, though."

"So, you'd still prefer Bridle. And if in a trial, a piece of evidence is a photo, or an x-ray, or security reel?"

"Well, I...hm."

"Oh, you're not familiar with film reels?"

"I am. Just hadn't heard about them, in a while. Anyway, yeah, I would need somepony to describe it to me."

"Madame," announced the returning butler, "May I present Counselor Daredevil, and Associate Glimmer."

"A good morning to you both," warmly greeted the Crystal Mistress. Her light green sheen caught the refracted sunlight of her gem mansion.

"Thank you, Madame. Same to you."

"Morning, Mare Nephrita."

"My congratulations to your success, Counselor. It seems everypony was most pleased with your efforts."

"Thank you, Madame. I hope this isn't a bad time."

"Not at all. In fact, I was wondering when I might be expecting your call."

"Really?"

"Yes, indeed. After your questioning if anypony else were aware of Mister Limelight's whereabouts or plans, I decided to do some digging of my own, as it were."

"You thought I might come by to ask what else you knew."

"Partially. But I'm more aware of your need to speak with those whom Mister Limelight has bonded with, over the moons. Considering the missing artifact involved, I believed either you, or Councilpony Cinch would come along. Perhaps, even both."

"So," joined Starlight, retrieving her notepad, "What'd you find out, exactly?"

"Sadly, no way of finding the artifact. However, I did happen to discover a small blemish, in a few of my most recent records. At first, I didn't think much of them. Thought them to be miscalculated errors that occur, once in a while. But after the hearing, I decided to review those minor anomalies further. The timing of them was uncanny, to say the least."

"What did you find," said Daredevil.

"The shipments, crew and working hours coincide with Mister Limelight's time off. Such as the end of his shifts, weekends, or sick days."

"And what was wrong with them," Starlight asked.

"Simply this. The loads hauled in those wagons, they were not for those days, but the next."

"Meaning somepony sent shipments a day early."

"During the three days prior to Mister Limelight's incident, yes Counselor."

"May we examine those records?"

"Of course. Jadis." Upon her summons, the butler brought forth a wide ledger from his back. "Thank you, Jadis."

Opening the massive pages, near the middle, Mare Nephrita brushed through the entries.

"Let's see. They should be...here." Upon receiving it, Starlight levitated the ledger towards herself and the Earth Pony.

"Okay," she spoke, "Says nothing extra was loaded. Or anything taken out. Still shipped a day earlier than planned, like you said. Anypony would've made that honest mistake, at some point."

"Explaining your first impression of them, Madame."

"Indeed."

"What else, Starlight?"

"Odd. It seems these were all delivered through Canterlot, to Ponyville. Not just where the Elements live. That's the closest town to the Everfree, where Zecora lives also."

"That Zebra who was mentioned to have hidden the artifact, am I correct Counselor?"

"Yes, Madame. That's right."

"It says the cargo," continued the Unicorn, "contained precious rubies, diamonds and gems to be delivered both to the Canterlot Carousel, and Carousel Boutique. Rarity's shops."

"That mare's becoming a favorite customer of mine."

"What did you learn from the working ponies, at those shifts?"

"Nothing in particular. Nothing odd could be recalled by them. Except, they all said that's normally the time Limelight would stop by to visit them. Before sorting through what wagons to send, and when. My workers normally associate with each other, even outside of their own shifts. Something I strongly encouraged, for such a mentally healthy, working environment."

"But all three nights, those workers said Limelight was there."

"Yes, Counselor. But, as I said, that was already a common occurrence, that nopony else would find it odd. Until now, that is."

"Why would Limelight have wagonloads sent to Ponyville a day early," Starlight pondered.

"Especially since the Amulet was stolen that first day? And he was nowhere near it, until the confrontation, which was three days later. Thank you, Madame, though I'd like to ask if we may question these ponies, ourselves."

"Of course. Perhaps you two might uncover something I overlooked. Extra set of eyes, and all that."

"Yeah, of course," chuckled Daredevil, "Thanks again."

"No trouble, at all."

"I've already said to you both, I don't want to speak of it anymore. Especially if it's about...that pony."

"We know we're bringing back terrible memories about that day, Mister Limelight," Daredevil said, while seated near the bedside. "But please understand that it's urgent we find the missing Amulet, as soon as possible."

"And settle for framing me with the theft, is that is?"

"On the contrary," he replied evenly, "We have fellow workers who can attest you were here, in the Empire, during the robbery."

"And that you've done nothing really wrong," added Starlight. "Well, I mean, you know, before what happened-"

"Yes, so," Limelight cut her off, "You want to see if I just planned it?"

"Actually, we just want to ask you two things. First is why you switched the shipping days the three nights before your friend gave you the Amulet?"

"I-I...I don't know what you mea-"

"They were precious stones, whether you checked them or not may be irrelevant, but they all went to Miss Rarity's store in Ponyville, close by the Everfree Forest. Where the Amulet was kept."

"No, not all! Some went to her shop in Canterlot, too..."

"Wow," remarked Starlight Glimmer, "That seemed...too easy."

"Well, yes! I've seen the books before! Several times, even! What of it?"

"Why the change of date," Daredevil persisted.

"What're you talking about?"

"Three nights in a row," elaborated Starlight, "while you were visiting with pals on your time off, starting with the night of the robbery, those wagons were sent to those places, Rarity's places, Element of Generosity, a day early."

"That's all a coincidence! I've had nothing to do with them!"

"Yet you were fully aware of the switches, and never mentioned it to your fellow workers, on any of those nights. Even if it were an honest mistake."

"Well that's because...that's because I *did** tell them.* The first two nights, I thought it odd at first. But by the third night, I asked about it. They said it was a mix-up, nothing more. That they'd get it fixed the next day. I never made the switch! But the fact you brought it up made me realize I...I might've been even more framed!"

"It's alright, Mister Limelight. We believe you," the Earth Pony calmly stated, "Then that means your friend had somepony else at that plantation doing that. Possibly to give him a means of a quick escape back to the Empire."

"You know anypony who could've been involved also," the mare asked, "Maybe another Unicorn?"

"I...I'm not so sure anymore. Not sure whom to trust. Unicorn, or not."

"Our last question for you is this," Daredevil leaned forward, "Tell us who your friend was, and we promise to leave you alone about the matter. Whether you answer, or not."

"We know you were being used," Starlight insisted, after he stayed quiet, "and even though we don't have anything to back up a theory about any conspiracy, you can help us with finding who's really responsible."

"Let me ask you something, Counselor," he then said, ignoring the fellow Unicorn, "You said I was about to use a powerful object at the expense of my free will, and newfound life. You also said you could relate to me, in some way. Tell me, what's changed now?"

"You want the long answer, or the short?"

"I just want to hear the full, honest to Celestia truth from you."

Taking a deep pause for breath, and removing his spectacles, the gold-yellow stallion stared blankly in the bedridden pony's direction, "Once you've recovered, you'll try to get back to work, talk to your friends, and try to pretend everything's returned to normal. But they won't. You might have some who believe you still, while others will not. Some may even wonder if you could ever be trusted again. What I've experienced down this road, not sure if it'll apply to you or not, was how difficult...and even how horrendous it all was. Not just felt. But by fighting through it, not giving up, going through each and every day, believing things get worse before they get better, having hope, and never giving in to the darkness, I..." He then chuckled, "I might've had a better shot, had I done so."

"What pulled you back up, then?"

"More whom, than what. Oddly enough, it was...it was the same guardians of the orphanage...where I was raised. So know that, despite all the pain and doubt, you will find someone that...that will lend a helping hoof. Probably Madame Nephrita, for starters."

As the hospital room grew silent, still and spellbinding, Starlight finally noticed the singular droplet, from the corner of her eye. Smiling with pride at him, she saw Daredevil slowly rise from his seat, wearing his red shades again. "We'll leave you some time to ponder, Mister Limelight. You don't have to answer us right away."

As she slowly strolled alongside the blind Pony, they made their way to the door, and into the hall.

"Rider. His name's Horizon Rider."

"What'd you find out?"

"Alright," he heard Starlight speak, her hooves clopping against the office floor, "I found out, from the Crystal Station logs, that a Unicorn named Horizon Rider arrived just two days before Limelight got the Amulet."

"Where did the train arrive from?"

"Ponyville, through Canterlot."

"Do they load wagon shipments onto the express?"

"Oh-ho, yeah. Wagon and all, sometimes."

Ignoring that comment, he spoke further, "Implying that after he stole the Amulet, he took that first load delivered as a means of getting the case through clearance, along with the emptied crates."

"And if a Guard spotted the case, he could've just said it was a dissatisfied customer," added the Unicorn mare. "But why three, though?"

"Maybe to help cover his tracks. Do we know where the wagons are placed, after delivery?"

"I've checked the roadmaps. There's a stock yard, just on the edge of Nephrita's plantation. Adjacent to other fields that might use them."

"You've been catching on quickly, for your first day doing this."

"Helps to be a former student of Princess Twilight," her tone playfully came back, "Most organized pony in Equestria, anywhere. Though she might've taken after Celestia. So, what now?"

"This is when we start planning things more carefully," he answered, tapping his staff in thought. "We know now who the thief was, how he evaded notice from Ponyville and Canterlot, and witnesses to confirm his identity."

"Adding the pawn shop keeper with Limelight."

"Exactly. Twilight's description she got from the pawnbroker matched that of Limelight's. We also have his motive. As for the opportunity, it was through Nephrita's deliveries. Just one problem."

"Which is?"

"We know how he got back here, to meet with Limelight. But not his means of finding the Amulet, much less steal it."

"Zecora mentioned her hiding place was undetectable by magic. What about Midnight? You think they're related? At least connected, somehow?"

"We find that out, we might have our conspiracy angle. And if that be the case, he might help us to determine Horizon's means also."

"How do we even know where to start?"

"Well, it's a long shot. But this is where my...my other talents fit in, most perfectly. We have to go to that stockade, and try to find anything out of the ordinary."

"You're right. It's a long shot."

Following her retort, he asked, "Do you know of someway to trace his...his...?" Tap! "His arcane signature?"

He was grateful he heard Twilight use that term, at least once, during their research last week.

"Not unless I got a sample of his mane, tail or horn," Starlight responded, "Although..." Hearing her search through the shuffling and crinkling charts, maps and records they dug up from their day's sojourn, she found it.

"Here." Placing it on the desk with a thump, she said, "While you asked for Horizon's descriptions from Limelight, I quickly teleported to the station, and back. The stationmaster said he collects these specially minted, limited edition, first-class tickets. No one's exactly alike. Oh, because it's shaped like a snowflake. Can you imagine? Anyway, he kept the one Horizon used. He even remembered what the Unicorn looked like too."

"Making it three witnesses, now. Continue, please."

"If I'm correct, Horizon's like any one of us Unicorns, who naturally hold objects leisurely through levitation spells, out of habit. His signature should be on the ticket, after doing so."

"Now, not so long a shot."

"Enough to be worth the effort, let's hope. But first..."

He seemed to be handling this abruptly mentioned affair well enough. She was so caught up in this entire day's venture that she failed to inform him of this. Until the last, available second. Seeing him come out of his room, his top button and tie undone, she was impressed by how well he managed to get all else put on so thoroughly.

"Think I can do without the tie? Might seem overdressed with it."

"Actually, that might be good idea. It's more of a casual thing, than all-out formal."

"May I ask the reason for this evening's more casual occasion?"

"Just their way to finish fully expressing their gratitude, is all."

"And it had to be through a casual banquet, strictly with them?"

"I know. I know you think they overdid it, since way back helping to pay for your help with Rainbow Dash, but just let them do this for you. Because this is way more than that."

"I'm well aware of that, Starlight." He had tossed the tie back into the room, and put his lenses back on. "But I just...I just think all this appraisal is keeping me-us from getting my-our investigation up, off the ground."

"You're so keen on this case, yourself. Why is that? I mean, you knew fully well Cadence, Shining, Twilight, Celestia, Luna, and the rest have ways to get this done too. Yet, you decided to pitch in, as much as possible, as soon as possible."

"Call it...call it an obligation."

"Well," she decided to counter, knowing he was uncomfortable about prying, as she was. "Obligation or not, we've made it this far in the case, already. So lighten up a little, why don't you. Otherwise, you'll end up like I was, trying to learn several friendship lessons at once. Overwhelmed."

"That sounded like an understatement, to me."

"Oh-ho! Trust me, bud. It was."

"Overwhelming, or an understatement?"

"Both. Now let's go," she spurred him on from behind, "I still need to, ugh...get ready too, you know!"

"Oh, I can almost hear Foggy's retort to that."

"Then he should get along, ngh-just nicely...with Trixie."

"Who?"

"Not. Now..." Seeing him moving his hooves finally, instead of sliding against the floor, they made their way back to the palace.

"Alright, I'm going," he huffed in chuckle, "Just why didn't you get ready, before?"

After that supper get-together, which went...somewhat well in her opinion, they immediately returned to their respective residencies to change out. Knowing Daredevil meant to be snooping the yards in the dark of night, she got out of her blouse that matched the light blue strands in her mane, and dove through her luggage to find something more appropriate. Not to mention removing her eye-liner and snout powder. Even before meeting Rarity, Starlight knew to be most presentable, especially when seeing royalty. She even made an effort to do so, back when she first met Twilight.

Upon her arrival to his new office and apartment, wearing her dark violet overcoat, Starlight Glimmer saw him donning his own rain cloak. Seeing his hood covering his eyes, the Unicorn mare got a slightly intimidating vibe from him.

"Wow. Okay, Fluttershy saw you like that?"

"Just be sure you're unrecognizable, at least." His low whisper even made the spectacle spine-tingling. Heeding his advice, however, she brought out a matching snowcap to put on, covering her mane.

"Okay, so...?"

"Stay off the main road, and out of the street lights. You know the best route to the stock yards, so lead the way. I'll follow your energy's path."

"Sounds good to me." Pling. Poff!

Teleporting to the best places that Daredevil suggested, Starlight gradually made her way to their destination, ensuring she left enough of a magical trail for him to pick up.

Pew-tingaling. After reaching a dark enough shadow within the fenced borders, she sat and waited for the Earth Pony's arrival. Whoosh.

"WHOA!" She barely remembered to whisper. "A little forewarning, next time!"

"Never been asked that, before. You have his signature?"

"Hold on." She ignited her horn to dimly levitate the train ticket, and used the tracing spell needed to pick up the magic that carried it last. Seeing an amber glow emanate afterward, she followed the trail it left, while Daredevil followed.

As she strove to maintain its light as low as possible, Starlight took extra care to stay unseen by any unwanted eyes. It seemed that every step closer to the source's main use of magic here made it even more vibrant. Something she tried to compensate for, with little success.

"Okay, it seems to be getting us closer. Even though it's faint, it's definitely picking up a trace. Maybe we can find a larger object, like the wagon he used, to trace his magic right back to-"

"Wait." Feeling his extended hoof press her against the wall, she was startled at first. "Turn it off."

"What? Why?"

"Someone's coming." It was shortly after that Starlight heard hoofsteps in multitudes getting louder. Immediately, she complied.

"What do we do?"

"Take the high ground, close by. I'll listen, from here." Craning her neck to face him warily, she heard him add, "Don't worry, I won't engage, 'less I have to. Besides, the guard watching me is even closer now."

Nodding, she teleported to the nearest rooftop, and watched from above. She then spotted the troupe of four ponies arriving near the entrance. Leading the other three was the silver Unicorn that was described to her and Daredevil. His gold and amber mane matched his irises, bearing a golden-orange horseshoe for his Mark. If Horizon was not related to Midnight, they could have fooled her.

Poof. Her cloud of energy dispersed in front of him, allowing him to move closer to the commotion that seemed to begin.

"You three stay and watch. I'll go fetch it." Picking up the resonance of that pony's hoarse whisper, and the stomp-clop of hooves, he could make out a burly, powerfully built Unicorn, who made his way into the stockade before him.

"Psst. Daredevil." Starlight's whisper came from the rooftop across from him. "Pretty sure you can hear me. So, just hear me out. I've got something I want to try. But if it starts getting too noisy, make a diversion for me, will you." Bee-yur.

He could make out her slight grunts, in an effort to contain the noise of her spell, as much as possible. Just then, it sharply ceased its tinkling burst, as something with a small ring landed pink-tink onto the middle of the road. Smaller than a pebble, he could barely make out the energy's resonance from here.

"Alright," he heard Horizon whisper to himself inside, "Which one are you hiding at?"

He mentally projected the stallion's robust form casually passing the wagons in there, craning his neck down to view underneath. He was humming a groveling tune to himself, as he did so. Just then, he stopped his tracks, and reached his right foreleg underneath the axle of his apparent wagon. The cloaked Earth Pony then tuned in on what exactly he grasped.

"Got'cha, little fly. Not so powerful in that jar of yours, huh?" The glass cylinder seemed to be holding a tiny creature. One that constantly batted against the barrier of its prison, as though a fly were actually buzzing into it. But that was not what truly caught his attention. The creature seemed to have a voice of its own. He could barely make it out.

"...jus-...-ait, unt-...riend-...-et me."

"Why would they even miss you," asked the Unicorn, "You just come and go, at random. Without saying when you'd be back, or where you'd go. Not even to that Pegasus friend that you hold oh, so dear."

He realized, then, Horizon Rider had abducted someone. He was unsure of who it was, but he knew he had to-

"Come on, boys." Exiting, Horizon ordered his goons, "Let's go out the side gate. Away from any prying eyes. We've got him."

"Sure he won't try anything, boss?"

"Heh. Trust me. He's *totally** powerless.*"

They stepped out onto to the left road, away from the binging speck that Starlight left for them. There was only one chance to intervene, and that was when they came to pass his shady corner. Rearing back, and taking out his batons from the belt underneath, he took a step forward. But then, he stopped. Just before he could make his move, he was wondering if it were the best one.

As they passed him unwittingly, he grimaced at his hesitance. They kidnapped someone, trapped them in a jar like an insect, completely helpless. He wanted to act, right then and there. But then he wondered how the guard viewing this up close would respond. The fact he would cause the militant pony a dilemma in whom to stop, it might even put others, including Starlight and the hostage, in unnecessary danger.

He really should have taken Shining up on their offer to help with anything, at dinner. All he did was summarize what they gained so far, today. He had just been so hell-bent in getting here, he would not focus on anything else, other than- Poof! Bling.

"Rats," Starlight's voice came up next to him, as the departing hooves faded from earshot, far beyond the gate. "Should've sent another on each path. But, probably shouldn't have risked getting caught, right?"

Returning from his conflicted stupor, he announced shakily, "We have to get back, now."

"Why? What's up?"

"He grabbed something. A jar. Un-Underneath the axle of his wagon. He used three wagons to throw off anyone who-who might've been on to him. Throw them off, i-if-if he'd been caught."

"Calm down, bud. Deep breaths. What's so important to hide under an axle, but keep in a jar-?"

"He's got someone. I don't know who it was, b-but he seemed completely helpless. Get that guard down here. We need to get back to Shining and Cadence. Right. Now."

"Uh, okay. Sure," she answered warily, "Just where is this-"

"Thirty paces behind us. Up on the roof. Sorry."

Elementary, My Dear Pony

CHOO! CHOO!

Steam had hissed from under the locomotive, as the clanking chug of gears and wheels of metal grated against the steel tracks beneath. Taking a deep whiff of the fresh, open air of her hometown, the mare trotted alongside her friend off the station, and onto the main road.

"Oh, it's most surely grand to be back to our humble abodes, after such dreary travels," the Unicorn beside her spoke, "I must admit, the shenanigans involved with that last trip was certainly one I wish to reprieve from."

"I hope you do get a good rest in, Rarity," Fluttershy offered gently, "All this traveling, alone, was exhausting."

"Quite right," Rarity answered, "Though I'm afraid I have much to make up for, since my absence from Ponyville. Thankfully, Sassy Saddles and Coco Pommel have done wonderful work maintaining their respective managements. Which should leave most of the gathered dust, cobwebs and clutter to be cleared here. Surely, at the end of this day, I should get in my long, awaited beauty sleep."

"You certainly deserve that. Especially how well you helped Cheese Sandwich with his cousins in Baltimare."

"Now, now. Let's not forget your efforts as well, Fluttershy. If not for your subtle methods of determining the cause of such an issue, undoubtedly there would have been an uproar."

"I just listened to what the animals had experienced, while you made sure you heard all sides of the problem."

"True. At any rate, I imagine you'll have quite the dilemma returning to your cottage also."

"Not too much, I hope. After sending Discord that note we'd stay for the trial in the Empire, and instructions of what to do, I'm sure he did a very good job of keeping an eye on everything, while I was gone."

"Be that as it may, your Wildlife Reserve may call for a need of maintenance, as well."

"I guess so. But then there's Doctor Fauna to help with that too."

"Back to the Crystal Empire, I'd also wish to find out if Twilight received any news from Starlight, or Counselor Daredevil. I imagine the two might have made a few strides concerning the stolen Amulet, by now."

"I hope so, too."

After that, the two simply walked on in silence, before reaching a juncture in the road where the two must separate.

"Well, take care, Fluttershy," the soft yellow Pegasus heard Rarity, "Rest well, and best of luck with any conundrums."

"Don't worry," she chuckled at the implication, "Like I said, I'm sure things have been well handled."

"In that case, darling, adieu."

"See you later, Rarity."

At once, she made a brisk, but graceful trot at the turn for home. Yes, it was definitely clear that all this traveling, searching, chasing, testifying, secret-keeping, more traveling and helping a friendship problem took their toll on the Pegasus mare. She was grateful for those times she took a nap on the train, as well as relaxed during Rarity's treat to a spa in Baltimare. So much so, she felt rejuvenated enough to check on how things went with Discord and her woodland critters.

Of course, her draconequine friend could perform numerous, and ludicrous pranks on her and her friends. And he had. But she would find some reason to enjoy it, as Discord intended it, while also ensuring that nothing terrible happened. In fact, she thought this might be a welcoming return to home for her. Especially after that assault. If she found something odd or ridiculous happening between him and Angel while walking in, that would be nice.

Her tree cottage in sight, she crossed the creek in front of it, and started to hover towards the door in slight excitement, and relief to be back home. Until...

CRASH! CLANG! RooAAAAR! Caw-caw! Screech!

Opening it with much haste, and sudden worry, she found the most unexpected shock inside. All her woodland critters were in a frenzy! Her bear friend clawing at the furniture! The squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, raccoons and mice were all scurrying the kitchen table and counters, so clearly hungry! And the poor birds scattered from the raucous that ensured throughout! Just then, Angel hopped away from the horrid sight, and went to her front hooves, waving his paws at her in fear, outrage and disbelief!

"Oh, my goodness!"

Elementary, My Dear Pony

Everything and everyone was in complete disarray, that it was the most horrible sight she had ever encountered. Well, aside from Nightmare Moon, Tirek, Chrysalis, Discord once upon a time, and that brief, but ominous glimpse of Sombra. But this took a different kind of terror for her to witness. This one involved all her furry and scaly friends, large, small and in between, terribly neglected.

"Now, let's take it easy," said Fluttershy, as calmly and as soothingly for their sakes, "I may not understand what happened here, but none of you has to explain anything right now. Just make sure you're well fed, and taken care of. Everything will soon be alright."

She immediately went for the supply cabinet, where all the essentials were carefully stored. Next she helped individually with the animals in releasing all tension inside of them. As she fed them, she spoke with a caring, gentle, yet firmly confident voice that encouraged them to eat, and trust in her kind words. Save one, of course.

"Oh, don't thing I forgot about you, Angel." She tended to her white, fluffy friend, after he nudged her mercilessly for attention. Placing the bowl of his favorite meal and dessert to satisfy his rumblings, Fluttershy watched the rabbit ravenously eat it without stopping.

"Oh, I sure wonder what could've caused all this." Taking a final glance of all creatures inside the tree cottage, she then noticed the coffee table set between the sofa and chair. "Oh, no."

At its center, sat the unrolled parchment of instructions and news Spike had sent to Discord by her.

"This is...somewhat like him to leave things like this. Maybe when he expected me back. But then, he still would find time to make sure they're okay for me. And he would've come back to surprise me, and say goodbye-" Ping.

"Hello, Fluttershy!"

"EEP!" Pew! Greatly startled, she launched into the air, and zipped towards the sofa, nearly to hide herself.

"Well that's a fine 'How do you do,' I must say." Screeching her sudden instincts to a halt, turning her ears back to the recognized voice, then fully facing him, she gasped.

"D-Discord!"

"In the flesh! Though, more bite-size, I'm afraid." She lowered herself towards the ground, and stared at the miniscule creature standing on the table.

"Discord, you-you're so...so..."

"So intimidating? Awe-inspiring? Wait, sorry. Wrong subtext. But I was made travel-sized, for somepony's convenience."

"Are you saying something made you like this? Is that why you couldn't help these animals, or even read my message?"

"Message?" Then turning towards the massive scroll right beside him, he shrugged. "Must've got lost in the mail. Or more, I must have."

"What happened to you?" Her voiced concern transcended to her wavering tone, and quivering irises of teal.

"Well, I was going about my own business, tending to the woodland creatures here, as you've asked me, until I suddenly found myself trapped in a jar, stuffed under the axle of a wagon, and spent the next TEN DAYS inside it, completely helpless!"

"Oh, how terrible!"

"No, Fluttershy. You don't understand. Ten days. Ten. Full. Measley. Consecutive days of chronicle order, without any passing on my own, except the hard, old-fashioned way! Ever wondered what spending even one in full sequence, without skip, rewind, slow-motion, play, pause or repeat would be like, after a millennia of such? Though perhaps that entire thousand-years-of-stone bit would've been worse than this. Only it wasn't, due to my lack of petrified state."

"Who did this to you? And how did you escape?" Her persisted questions allowed for the draconic multi-bred to regain focus, it seemed.

"Well, I didn't exactly escape. I simply used whatever chaos I stored inside myself for emergency reserves to time-travel here."

"Time travel? But I thought you said you were completely powerless."

"No, I said completely helpless, which implies that despite having some sort of power, I was still helpless in using it to defend myself."

"So you went back in time, to the day you were foalnapped?"

"That's right. Though, that was the intended purpose. Given this extra note from you to indicate you'd be away longer, it means I missed by a loooong shot."

"I'm so sorry! After the Amulet disappeared again, we had to help with Rainbow Dash's trial, and-"

"Hush now, my dear Fluttershy. I haven't much time left. Oh, the irony. But did you say, Rainbow Dash's trial? Suppose it was only a matter of time."

"Discord."

"Oh, yes. Right. Of course. No more chit-chat. At any rate, now more than ten days since my abduction, I have yet to determine where I am now. I mean, yes, I know I'm here now, though that hasn't been the case since, nor will it be so, 'til further notice-"

"Discord."

"Right! Not a moment to lose! My chaos magic helped maintain this spell longer than the normal casting, but still not too much."

"Who took you?"

"Some Unicorn stallion. Silver, golden mane and eyes, and from the looks of his flank while being put in his satchel, a horseshoe Cutie Mark of...yellowish-orange? You'll have to ask Rarity for the precise color on the spectrum. Also, it was nighttime."

"What's the last place you remember seeing?"

"After that ten-day agony, I saw Crystal Ponies passing my wagon in some sort of stockade for such vehicles."

"And after that?"

"Since then, all I ever saw was the darkness inside that pony's satchel. It's been even more agonizing, now, to get past another full moon, or so."

"Another full moon!? How many moons!?"

"Oh, roughly-" Poof!

"Discord!? Discord!" But the Pegasus' cries were left unanswered, as the room became totally quiet. Even the baffled creatures all around her made no sounds.

There was no time to waste! She had to hurry, as fast as possible! Twilight insisted that she helped in rallying their friends back to the Castle, this second! A day after returning from the Empire, and just getting back from Rainbow Falls to be reinstated, already trouble seemed to be building up. Again! Well, since the Alicorn Amulet was still missing, that was bound to happen. But despite the angst, and thrill, and hoof-pumping excitement in a great, big adventure she liked doing, her trial stressed her out a whole lot more than she realized. She just was not up for this kind of thing, this early. But she still needed to keep going, and help out wherever needed.

"Okay. Come on. She's the last one to get for Twilight. She just got back with Rarity. Where in Equestria could she have gone to?"

After checking the cottage, seeing the animals a bit tense, but calming down, Rainbow Dash darted to the different places where her fellow Pegasus could have been.

First it was the newly built Reserve. "Nope." Pew!

Then the duck pond. "Nu-uh." Whip.

Next the Animal Shelter. "No, way!" Zip.

And finally, Discord's house that sat totally empty. "Not even!" Whew!

Without much luck, she was starting to get very frustrated.

"Ugh! For a shy pony, she sure knows how to keep out of sight! I mean, where would she go? And just to be even more distant from ponies!? Huh?"

Just then, while hugely upset, she caught something, while staring blankly onto the ground below. Her wings flapping into a hover, Rainbow got a good view of the town square, where she spotted a light yellow figure. She saw the familiar Pegasus mare darting to a full gallop, straight towards the Tree Palace.

"Aw, come on!" Zoom!

"Alright, girls. I know you all have a lot on your plates right now, but this called for an emergency meeting of the utmost peril."

"Um, um, Twilight?"

"Not right now, Fluttershy."

"But-"

"Spike." Upon the Alicorn's singular request, the young Dragon stepped up from his seat before the Map Table, and unrolled a parchment.

"Ahem," he began, "To Princess Twilight Sparkle and friends, from the Crystal Empire. As I am dictating this first report on my investigation with Starlight Glimmer, Cadence and Shining Armor have set the Joint Guard on high, and full alert for the suspected thief of the Alicorn Amulet, who is now in possession of a hostage. But the thief and foalnapper might have left the Empire already. The victim's identity is unknown, but it seems the abduction had occurred shortly after the robbery. This makes it the elventh day, since then. Rendering the victim helpless, the Unicorn named Horizon Rider-"

"Ooh-ooh! Must be Midnight Rider's twin, or something!"

"Pinkie Pie."

"Sorry, Twilight."

"Ahem," Spike reiterated, "Horizon Rider, who was Limelight's friend from Canterlot, sent the victim to the Empire in a jar, and under the axle of one of three delivery wagons sent to Rarity's establishments. The wagons were used to conceal the stolen Amulet, as well as keep the victim from being detected, and throw off any suspected ponies. Horizon's means of steeling the Amulet remain unknown, if he was the culprit, however. But the artifact must have been used to help contain whomever he and his cohorts had taken also.

Therefore, I ask that some, if not all of you, meet me in Canterlot for further developments, and determine Horizon Rider's exact involvement and current location. I also ask that you convey with other ponies if they had seen him. He is described as a silver stallion with gold-amber mane and eyes, and Mark of a yellow-orange horseshoe."

"Got to be a relative, at least!"

"Pinkie."

"Uh...yellow-orange horseshoe. Either way, until next time, we all wish you the best. From your friend, Daredevil."

"Well, shoot," muttered Applejack, "Ain't that the needle in the haystack, for you."

"Especially if that needle was made even smaller to hide, and put under a wagon of hay!"

"I'll carry out this pony's description to the Mayor, see what we both can find out." As Twilight took the scroll from Spike, and rolled it back in, she continued. "In the meantime we must discuss...um, what is it, Fluttershy?"

Slowly raising her hoof, the yellow Pegasus seemed to be greatly troubled by the message. Trembling, she spoke, "I, um...I-I think I know...who was abducted."

"Well, come along, darling. We mustn't waste any time."

"Yeah," Rainbow Dash joined, "Who was it?"

"Um, Dis-D-Discord."

"Wow," the Dragon remarked, "Plot thickens."

"And now it's even much bigger and badder and mysteriouser now, than it was before!"

"Pinkie sure got that right. Sort'a. Recon this is the makings for a pretty bad day coming for Equestria."

"Having the Alicorn Amulet," stated Twilight, "Whoever was wearing it used it to dispense Discord of his chaotic magic. How did he manage to escape?"

"Oh, um. He didn't."

"Then how the hay'd you know that, Fluttershy?"

"Because he suddenly appeared," she answered her fellow Pegasus, "saying he time-traveled to let me know what happened to him."

"How in the stars did he manage to do that, dear?"

"Chaos emergency reserves, he told me. Guess he learned to save some somewhere, after...gulp, Tirek."

"How long did he say he's been abducted?"

"Well, he was about to say exactly, Twilight. But all I could get, before he vanished, was maybe a few moons or so."

"Now wait just an apple-picking minute. You saying he was made tiny and small-like, put in a zap-apple jelly jar for trapping, spent ten days kept around the Crystal Empire, and maybe moons more someplace else? Why don't he use that reserved energy or whatever to get himself out?"

"Maybe it was only enough for one trip. And he also said he'd been kept inside the Unicorn's satchel since then. So he has no idea how to leave, where he is, or where to go without getting caught. Except to get help from us, back in time."

"Couldn't he have just gone back to when he was taken, and not after?"

"He said he missed his shot, Rainbow. Guess he couldn't control it as well as he wanted. He must be so powerless, and alone."

"Completely powerless now, it seems," Twilight continued. "I-I'm so sorry, Fluttershy. This must be very difficult for you. And considering all that's happened before."

"You mean during, Twilight," chirped Pinkie. "Discord didn't do any time-traveling yet! Or, did he?"

"Whatever," Rainbow Dash shook her head, "Back to the real problem here. Basically somepony's got the Alicorn Amulet, used it to take Discord, take most of his magic also, and then....Then what?"

"I fear that's precisely what we must determine, darling. And it seems our befriended Counselor is more than willing to meet with us in Canterlot, post haste, to do so. But I'm afraid not all of us can make it, I am sure."

"Got that right, Rarity. Still got to make sure our farm's fully caught up with everything. I recon you need to check on some things in your shop too, after just getting back."

"And I need to make sure my animal friends are safe and well cared for, because they'd been left alone since Discord was taken, and are still very scared and upset."

"But...But...But this is all of Equestria we're talking about, girls," stammered the light blue Pegasus, "Can't all that stuff just wait a little longer!?"

"We can't just put everything else at a stand-still, Rainbow Dash," Twilight answered, "If we did that every time something has come up so suddenly, like this, it could put us in a position where we couldn't do anything to help anypony, at all."

"Yep. Twi's right in saying we can't afford to leave our lives in cluttered messes, and be left alone. Otherwise, it'll come back to bite us in the flanks, one way or 'nother."

"Well, I'm going! Sure, Spitfire told me to take a small break from the trial to let off some steam, before getting back in the swing of things. But maybe a trip to Canterlot can help with that too."

"I want to go too," the rosy Earth Pony beamed, "Maybe then I can start planning a special party for Daredevil, while we go looking around for clues!"

"I'll be there also to check with Celestia and Luna. Find out what they know from their own investigations. I'll send this information of Horizon Rider to them right away, as well. And this should be a good opportunity to make final plans for the Friendship Festival."

"This will also be a good way to maintain a sense of calm among our fellow ponies here," Rarity added, "That the rest of us strive to maintain a sense of security in our own homes, during such worrisome times."

"Then it's settled," the Alicorn concluded, "First train tomorrow, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Spike and I will go to Canterlot, while the rest of us stay to give ponies here some sense of calm, and help in learning more about Horizon Rider's activities here."

Pssssh. As the engine let off steam, chugging away from the Canterlot station, Rainbow Dash took to a hover and went with her friends to find the blind stallion. However, what they all found there, instead, really caught her attention.

"Uh, okay. Wasn't expecting this many guards here."

"A precaution Celestia and Luna had set up," answered the lavender Alicorn, as they found themselves escorted into the city, "After finding out how Discord's abducted with the Amulet's use, we need to use extreme caution. Still not all that comfortable about it, though."

"Don't worry, Twilight," chirped Pinkie, "I'm sure this'll be all over and done with, very, very, very soon!"

"Yeah," said Spike from her back, "The way things are looking, we'll find the Alicorn Amulet in no time."

"No time. He-heh, don't we all wish." At the chromatic mare's remark, she noticed how they were making for the castle, its terraces standing straight ahead of them. "Guessing Daredevil's up there with them, huh?"

"That would be my supposition also," Twilight answered, "The princesses probably wanted him there too, and had him summoned the moment he arrived."

"Well, that makes sense," the Dragon responded, "Because he's basically here with us to know more about Horizon Rider. And since he and Limelight used to live here, maybe Luna and Celestia already found something."

"Ooh-ooh! I sure hope so! Because then I can spend more time here planning a special, super-duper, amazing party that I've been wanting to do for the blind pony! Maybe a super sleuth themed party! Or maybe flying ninjas! Or maybe even-"

"Pinkie," snapped Rainbow, "Worry about that later. Right now, we've got stuff to do that needs all our focus here."

"Being as rare as it is to hear that from you, Rainbow Dash, I really appreciate it."

"Ha. No problem, Twilight," she chuckled back, "I just can't get over how fast all this is going, is all. Even I'm wanting a breather."

"Yeah. And that's even rarer for you to say, Rainbow Dash," said Spike. "And that just makes me hope this all gets finished quickly even more."

"Me, too," said Rainbow.

"Me, three!"

"Yeah. I think you speak for all of us, Spike."

The mares and little Dragon had made their way into the royal throne hall, the gleaming colors shining from the stained-glass windows. Before them stood the pony regents of Sun and Moon, with the red-spectacled Earth Pony beside them.

"Hello, Twilight," warmly greeted Celestia, "I'm glad you were able to bring others with you for this."

"Is there something wrong, Celestia?"

"I'm afraid so," she nodded.

"We fear there's been a great, unexpected turn of events occurring in Equestria," joined Luna.

"What, something greater that Discord getting foalnapped," hoarsely asked the blue Pegasus.

"That's just the tip of the iceberg, Dash," replied the gold-yellow stallion.

"Ah," gasped the pink Earth Pony, "There's a giant iceberg in Equestria?!"

"Not now, Pinkie," Twilight said in worry.

"In the past week or so," continued Luna, "during Miss Dash's hearing, ponies of various tribes and occupations, including those of the Royal Guard, have been reported missing, or absent without relieve of post. These ponies are leaving their duties without mentioning their whereabouts, resembling Limelight's story. And this has happened not only in Canterlot."

"Now, it seems Horizon Rider's not the only pony to watch for," Celestia spoke, "Whatever this is, it's far, far more than a simple thief, or bandits in the night."

"Yet, equally as sinister, crafty and unseen. Hiding in said night's shadows."

"Basically," Daredevil said, "this is a serious, domestic crisis of its own scale."

"Unlike anything my sister and I had ever encountered," ended Celestia.

"I-I don't understand," stuttered Twilight, "Celestia, Luna, are you saying this is some sort of secret, rebelling occult that's building up in Equestria?"

"No occult that we know of, at least," the ivory Alicorn answered.

Her dark blue sister added, "Though they seem to disappear in unison, supposedly to congregate in secret, much like an occult, this might not approach such meetings as one would expect."

"As you know, Twilight, occults usually function as such when they practice a certain ritual without the public awareness and consent, so as to avoid being found and dispersed."

“This is more a conspiracy,” said Daredevil, “Secretive and passionate, sure. But very well organized, and resourceful.”

"Yet it seems any alongside Horizon Rider, as Limelight did, might openly express their intentions, directly after the Amulet was stolen, and may even claim credit for such."

"What makes you say that, if they haven't done it yet," asked Rainbow.

"Because," replied Daredevil, "they might have done so now."

"What do you mean," inquired Twilight.

"Upon searching for Rider's whereabouts at his small estate," Luna said, "The Guards encountered a Pegasus by name of Midnight Sky."

"Sounds very, *very*** close to Midnight Rider," squeaked Pinkie Pie.

"She claims to be a cousin to him and Horizon," nodded Celestia, "And that they, and all other ponies like them, act in protest against you Elements. Planning to come out and do so, now."

"But," stammered Dash, "But why? What did we ever do to them?"

"Partially," Luna said, "it's what they felt wasn't done for them. As Limelight openly stated, the Elements of Harmony had only been used in the most dreadful of circumstances. Hardly ever for the sake of tending to the damage that's been done."

"But if they're being open about it," said Pinkie, "they wouldn't be going around, disappearing and hiding, would they?"

"Again, unlike an occult," responded Luna, "They seem to be rallying to enact some form of protest from the shadows. You see, though they may be radically inclined, they still view themselves as part of Equestrian society, rather than cultivating their own beneath it. Despite that, they know they're viewed as fugitives, for the moment."

"The Map never did send us to friendship problems involving disgruntled ponies against us." Twilight noted. "Or, at least they weren't expressive of that. And that's basically what the Tree of Harmony and its Elements are doing. Tending to everyponies' struggles."

"They may not have been the ones you visited thus far," was Celestia's response, "Nor would they view that as sufficient course of action."

"Therefore, according Midnight Sky and her kin," concluded Luna, "They've decided to take matters by their own means. Whatever that may entail, apparently."

"What do we do about it?"

"That's where things get interesting," said Daredevil. "Though Miss Sky was arrested for conspiracy, and accessory to civil disturbance, nothing substantial could support the charges. Despite her open remarks, they weren't enough for a full confession. So, they're releasing her today."

"Go figure," grunted Rainbow.

"We need somepony, not a Guard, to trace her movements," the solar regent stated, "without alerting her suspicion."

"But won't she already know who we are," asked Spike, "and what we look like?"

"She'd most likely spot you all specifically in a crowd," agreed the blind stallion, "But with another pony that's far less familiar to her, she'd have trouble suspecting anyone."

"What, like, maybe some blind pony walking in the streets with her?"

"You catch on quickly, Dash," Daredevil smirked.

"But don't you need somepony to back you up," the Pegasus wondered. "For your bad eyes? Hard to tell where she's going without them, you know."

"That actually brings us to our next topic of discussion," answered the night-blue Alicorn, "In Starswirl's personal wing of the Archives."

As soon as they reached their destination, Princess Celestia spoke on. "When the Guards apprehended Midnight Sky at Horizon Rider's, she was seen carrying a torn page. Recognizing it instantly, our other guest took to finding the correct volume it came from for us."

"From Starswirl the Bearded's collection," Twilight gasped. "But how?"

"Miss Sky was apparently known for her rapid stealth," the gold-yellow pony replied.

"Nowhere near as rapid as me, I'll bet," boasted Rainbow.

"Speak from experience, Dash," teased Daredevil.

"Hey!"

"Don't worry, if that's the case. Attorney privileged information."

"Really?"

"Only if it isn't too incriminating. Or involves an ongoing, serious investigation."

"Like, right now?"

"Your words, not mine."

"Hilarious."

"She should be here, somewhere," muttered Luna, "You're certain we didn't pass her, Sister?"

"Just as sure as you are, Luna."

"Your Majesties," greeted a voice, as an elderly Unicorn came up, "You've arrived just in time."

"Mistmane," gasped Twilight, Spike and Rainbow Dash, recognizing the Pillar of Beauty before them.

"Well, duh! Of course it's Mistmane, you sillies! Who else would it be?"

"There you go," said Fluttershy, while tending to a family of chipmunks, "These blankets and drops of water will help. Everyone needs to feel safe and secure, after something terrible happened."

Receiving their gratitude, she moved on to the next of her animal friends. She has been spending the entire day at home, striving to nurture her woodland companions back to a peaceful state of mind. And for those that could not fit inside, she went out to care for them at the door. As for her rabbit friend, he managed to retain some sense of calm, although not enough. For he was constantly following Fluttershy around.

"Just a second, Angel," she patiently answered his incessant calls for her attention. "I'm almost finished here." It was after she had visited the last of the troubled creatures, did she give him her full, undivided attention. "Now, what's the matter?"

He first pointed at his nose, then towards the Everfree. "You hurt your nose in the Everfree Forest? Why were you even there?"

Shaking his head, he tried again. He took a sniff from a nearby flower, made a face while pointing towards the forest, and then made another face that imitated Discord.

"Discord made you smell a flower in the forest, and made it smell bad?"

Furiously, he stomped with impatience. He then picked up a jar from somewhere, showed his face through the other side, imitating Discord again, then took a whiff in the forest's direction.

"Are you saying this has to do with Discord's foalnapping?"

Nodding, he watched Fluttershy continue guessing. "You saw him put in the jar?" Again, he nodded. "You saw who did it, and which way they went?" A third time, but followed by a horizontal shake. "But you noticed something?" Another nod. "A smell?" Another. "Coming from the forest?" And another. "Can you pick up the scent still, and see where it leads?" Crossing his arms, he let her explain. "I really wish I could help find out more, but I need to ask Doctor Fauna to come and watch your friends here, first. I don't' want to leave them feeling all alone. Not again. After that, then I'll go with you to the forest."

"And there you are, darling. I'm positive it will suit you for such the occasion you envision."

"Thanks, Rarity," answered Bon Bon, "I was really hoping for something special for my trip to Canterlot, and the festival."

"No trouble at all. And Miss Heartstrings will be by for similar reasons, I presume?"

"Actually, Lyra's been planning to visit family out of town then. But she hoped to catch up with the rest of her and Twilight's friends, someday."

"Perhaps it also calls for a nice reprieve between housemates."

"Definitely that too." After the two mares share a brief chuckle, the beige Earth Pony continued as Rarity tidied up. "Must be nice to be back, after all that hectic chasing, searching, and even the trial everypony's been talking about."

"Yes, it's been a bit relaxing, surely," replied the Unicorn, as she reorganized her shelves next, "But I'm afraid that's limited, considering there's still a need to find the stolen artifact."

"It's got to be something important, for it to be hidden but then stolen, and all of you off looking for it. What was it again? Some amulet that Zecora kept, after that Trixie incident?"

"Yes."

"And Discord's been taken too?"

"Yes."

"And I heard the Mayor gave descriptions about a lead suspect."

"Indeed. A Unicorn stallion by name of Horizon Rider." Deciding to veer away from the magnitude of such a potent trinket still in the wrong hooves, Rarity continued, "I don't suppose you might have seen somepony by his descriptions, shortly before our own departure."

"Well actually, I can't really say for sure, but I think I might've seen somepony like that, when Lyra and I went spent the day at the spa."

"He was in the spa?"

"Only for getting some kind of ingredient. Insisted on a certain kind, making some excuse about his wife. I'm still not sure he looked like that pony. But silver coated Unicorn does ring some kind of bell."

"Given that this was over a week ago, I can understand that. But do you remember him carrying anything?"

"Just his satchel," Bon Bon replied, "But I think he mentioned something about a wagon he used for delivering stuff. He wanted to make sure he got it, before heading back from making deliveries."

WHACK! The bobbling sounds came from the apples that landed into the baskets below. As she picked up the first bushel within reach, the orange farm pony turned to her little sister nearby.

"And why didn't you say nothing about this to me or Big Mac?"

"I'm sorry, Sis," said Apple Bloom with a cringe, "But after what that pony did, myself, Scoots and Sweetie was worried what he might do to everypony else. And besides, y'all was already starting to leave to look for that there Amulet 'fore we could get a word out."

"Just what in tarnation were you three doing out in the forest, anyhow?"

"We already got permission from Granny and their folks. We just wanted to find Zecora and ask for something we wanted to use in our next Crusader Camp. She wasn't at home, so we were waiting close by. That's when he came up to her house, and busted himself in."

"And you sure he didn't see y'all?"

"None o' us made even the smallest peep. We followed for a bit, but was too affrighted to even move from our hiding place, after what he just done and did to Discord. Soon as we knew he was gone, we ran straight back to Ponyville, found Zecora, and told her about what we saw. We thought she had already told you everything about that."

"Well, after we get this here load in, us two will pay Zecora a quick visit, and just see if we can find out more from there."

"Alright."

As the two Apple sisters loaded everything into the cart, Applejack checked with her big brother about the other jobs needed to be done, before the festival.

"Okay, so let me get this straight," Rainbow Dash began, "Before Horizon left Canterlot, he had his cousin steal a page from Starswirl's books and scrolls, and she just decided to come back for it in his apartment, before she got caught, to get it for him again?"

"He probably forgot it, and realized that it wasn't in his possession," answered Twilight.

"And Mistmane, while passing through, recognized it from when she saw Starswirl work on that page hundreds of years ago, and found the book."

"There was a study in some new magic dispenser and inhibitor that he was working on with Stygian and Meadowbrook, yes."

"And it's basically saying how to make some potion, elixy-thing-whatever, to do…what, again?"

"To circumvent any Unicorn's magic in use."

"Meaning?"

"It makes something magic proof," muttered Spike.

"Oh, okay. Thanks."

"But isn't that just even sillier," beamed Pinkie Pie, "I mean, why would a Unicorn want to know how to make something magic proof, while also trying to steal the most powerful amulet in all of Equestria?"

"Maybe to make that magic proof," Spike offered.

"From what we gathered in Limelight's attempt to use it, that might not be the case," Twilight responded, as she continued through the volume before her, and its returned page.

"Maybe to make himself magic proof, when dealing with you and the other Princesses," Pinkie suggested.

"Possibly. But, then again, why would he bother with that when he possesses the Amulet? Or more, it possesses him? And he was busy abducting Discord, after spending time to find the hidden Amulet? It just seems too much for one pony to handle, spontaneously."

"Maybe that was his next step in the plan, or something," spoke Rainbow.

"Yeah," sharply added Spike, "What if that was his way of knowing where to find it? Zecora said that no Unicorn would've been able to use magic to find it."

"And finding a means to compensate for that does sound plausible. And given he decided to have Midnight Sky steal from these archives, he knew that Starswirl might have something on that as well. Perhaps from one of the missing Guards. Daredevil wasn't joking when he said these ponies were highly resourceful and organized. Intelligent can most definitely be added to that list of superlatives, even though they-wait."

"What's up, Twilight?" As Spike then got closer to the lavender mare, the other two joined.

"Yeah, Twi," exclaimed the Earth Pony, "Is it a mysterious riddle, puzzle or magical word to say in there? Is it some evil, crazy, scary monster that is in some kind of story? Or maybe-hmff!"

"Not now, Pinks," the Pegasus groaned, after removing her hoof from her friend's muzzle. "Save it for your crazy, super ninja party you got going on."

"Okay. And you just gave me my idea for Daredevil's party, before I even came up with it! Thanks!"

"It says here," began Twilight, as she showed them, "that in order for the potion to make its most effective reaction, the ingredients needed must be exact in there measurements. But that's not what's interesting. It's the ingredients themselves. Specifically, one of them. I saw it, while reading that Book of Supernaturals. It's the same used for the Poison Joke cure."

"Well, that makes sense, right?" Spike shrugged at that statement. "Poison Joke uses magic in it to make a joke on ponies who touch it. Guess he was trying to get ready for whatever plants were in the Everfree that could do something to his magic."

"Maybe. But like you and Rainbow Dash suggested, it might also be part of his plan to find the Alicorn Amulet. Using that ingredient would cause some reaction wherever Zecora hid it. But how would he even know about that? Where was his given opportunity?"

As she and her furry friend cautiously made their way into the Forest, and reached their intended destination, both stopped to see others heading to the hut also.

"Applejack, Rarity, Apple Bloom?" Fluttershy announced her presence to them with concern and apprehension. "What're you doing here?"

"I recon the same reason you are," her farmer friend answered.

"Oh, well Angel here told me about something he smelled in the Everfree Forest, when he saw Discord being taken."

"And Bon Bon had just told me today about a silver Unicorn stallion at the spa, asking for some sort of ingredient," spoke Rarity. "Aloe and Lotus said they gave it to him, but failed to recall exactly what it was. But they did remember it was from Zecora for the Poison Joke treatment."

"Apple Bloom and her friends saw the whole thing, when they tried to find Zecora. Never told us 'cause they figured Zecora had already done that. Told her 'bout it all scared-like, when they found her."

"Oh dear, were you okay?"

"We're fine," the yellow filly replied, "Just a bit spooked is all, but what about Zecora?"

Turning to the tree hut once more, Fluttershy gasped in shock, eyes widened, at the sight of the unhinged door.

"Oh my," she heard Rarity utter in kind, "You don't suppose…"

"Apple Bloom, stay with Fluttershy," spoke Applejack, as she darted towards the raided tree, with the Unicorn mare racing beside her.

"I don't get it." The yellow Pegasus turned to see the perplexed look on the foal's face. "Either Zecora forgot to fix her door, or it happened again."

"What do you mean?"

"It was just like that, after we saw that Unicorn come out with the Amulet."

"What's going on now?"

Upon hearing the blind stallion's question through the magical earpiece, Mistmane answered, "Thirty paces from you, in an alley. She has stopped before a doorstep, and is knocking."

"Anyone answering the door?" He halted roughly ten paces from the corner, leaning against the wall, away from the trotting ponies all around him. With him tailing the dark Pegasus mare, the Unicorn had been strolling, and observed from across the street.

"Not yet. She seems to be rather impatient."

"Just let me know when."

As she viewed Midnight Sky from her position, Mistmane could not help but wonder about something else. She found it rather odd a pony of the law, and a blind one at that, not only having the urgency to volunteer for this task, but also suggesting it. His motives for aiding in this entire search have been left unmentioned, it seemed, yet he also emanated a sense of trust from his efforts in the trial. His intentions to simply help the Elements surely seemed noble and pure. But, like her elderly appearance, there was more to him than meets the eye. Wishing to inquire the Princess on the other end about this, the mare remained silent, knowing he would be listening also from the communication crystals granted to them.

"Alright," she began, as she regained focus, "Somepony's answering…oh my."

"What is it?" Watching with surprise and genuine intrigue, Mistmane say Midnight Sky gain entrance.

"By the stars. I haven't seen one of those in so long."

"What? Who answered?"

"I don't know who it was, but I know that it was a Zebra. What is one doing all the way here in Equestria, I don't know." Then realization struck her. "Counselor, didn't you mention a Zebra safeguarding the Amulet?"

"Princess Celestia," sharply spoke Daredevil, "Did you get that?"

From the palace, the ivory regent sent her reply, "I'll inform Twilight and the others, at once. Give me the name of the street, and return immediately."

As before, there was no color. Even the shapes left an indistinct form, at first. Gradually, she could make out the sense of cold air travelling all around her, as she saw what could be distinguished as rays of heat through window panes like those of the palace.

Also like the previous visits, Luna was able to smell something burning nearby. But this, instead, emanated from small flickers of flame on several candles, their liquid wax flowing gently downward. And yet, the entire place was mercilessly cold. The box before her was rather long, and held something inside it. It was by his slow brush of contact that sent out vibrations she was able to identify the object within. A corpse. Female, based on the other he had held before.

The boiling fury quickly built in pressure, as heavy pants and heaves through nostrils joined the incessant drops of sweat and constant punches. Against a rather dense bag of sand, she observed his throw of fists against it with vigorous pain and rage, as he began to recall what brought this event forward.

"How could you say we're friends, when you lied to me since we *first met!?** And if you knew if I wasn't being honest with you, you still went with it? Was any of it real? Did anyone else know? Did that Greek chick know? What about Heather? Did you ever think about what the cops would do, if they found you bleeding out somewhere!? That they'd think I knew what you were doing? If Karen knew? Or were we just an afterthought!?"*

After him came another familiar voice from the first nightmare.

"So, what now?"

"We know who's making your father do this." She heard his even reply. "Calls himself Kilgrave. I'm working with a P.I. who knows what we're dealing with. Trust me, we're doing everything we can. We'll get him. We'll get your father out."

"When? Next week? Month? Year!?"

"Heather, please. Try to calm down."

"If you really did everything you could, you would've finished him off *long** before all this!"*

"You've had too much to drink again, Heather. I promise, this will be over, and I'll come back. I promise. Just wait for me. Please, Heather."

"Whatever, you piece of trash. Just stick to the dark alleys, like you always do, horned perforate."

It was sometime later that he was able to attain his goal, in finding the evidence needed to exonerate Mister Glenn. He made his way to her apartment building, where sirens wailed repeatedly, and echoed throughout the entire block. Taking the elevator, then reaching her floor, he noticed the numerous figures stomping to and fro her doorway. The muttering voices, the clicks of cameras going off, the scratching of lead on pieces of paper. He could still smell the ailing fluid, and clanking of bottles inside. But what hung from the fan truly horrified him.

"Matt? Matt!"

"Foggy," he gasped in reply, "Foggy. Tell me that's not her. Tell me that's not her!"

"She got a call from the warden. It was about her dad. He chose not to wait any longer."

"I…I asked her. I asked her to wait for me. I should've called. Asked you to help me watch-"

"Matt, don't go there. She made her choice. There was nothing you could've done. Even if I answered your call, and sent someone over, I don't think the subways could've reached her in time. Even then, you knew how out of control she was. Again, that was her call. And it's not on you, buddy."

Punching the bag again, again, and again, shouting and grunting ever more loudly, he caused it to break. As the sand spilt in an endless hiss onto the floor, his friend's voice was heard again.

"Got a lot of pent up anger and rage issues, huh? Don't you have anyone to talk about this kind of crud?"

"I have my priest," he hoarsely replied, "You would've met him, had you been to their funeral."

"I just want you to know that…that I don't want to end things between us. I just…I don't know how go forward from here."

"Yeah, well, that makes two of us."

"He was right, you know." As the bitter cold, and inner wildfire dispersed to silence and refreshing scents, Luna spoke on. "There may have been other ways, and different choices to make. But they offer no guarantees of any change to the past. And no knowledge can be gained for true growth and peace, except by what has been done, not what could have been. So, believe me when I tell you, Matt, we can't always give our best efforts, despite our desire to do so. For we struggle with our interior flaws as well."

His sighs of contemplation and calming state of mind were enough for her to know he took her words to heart.

"Thanks again. But where does that leave me, here and now?"

"Persevere in what you're doing. Fulfill your obligations, at their given time. Be patient and vigilant, for you know not the hour. And should you falter again, know I am here to listen still."

"Again, thank you, Luna."

"It's been my privilege."

"Just an afterthought, you censor my dreams also?"

"Rest well, Matt."

Author's Note

At long last, *it's CHRISTMAS!* Thank you for all your patience, and support. I hope to begin my three-parter here, shortly. Enjoy this wintry season, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, and may God Bless us, everyone!

The Tempest We Know ~ Part I ~

When life just gets you down,

You get all turned around,

And the way you go just doesn’t feel right.

“Is this how we’re starting the day?”

“Absatootalutely!”

You just can’t help but frown

That the only way is down.

So you just feel like it’s all a scary sight.

“Foggy would be proud.”

But you don’t let it keep you from ever being done.

You get back up, you little pup,

And put a hoof in front of another.

“Puppies have paws.”

It takes one step at a time, before you can run.

And even then, you trip again.

Don’t crash a den! Go catch a hen,

Like your Italian stallion brother!

“Boxing was more my Dad’s thing, but okay.”

That’s why we’re here today

To shout “Hooray!”

And watch foals go out and play,

And remind us what makes life okay,

And look at the wonderful things and say,

“This is what we work for all the way!”

And then you just have fun, and shout “Hooray!”

“Guess after the past two weeks, I could do with a breather.”

“That’s the spirit, Devie!” Boing! Boing! Boing!

As they arrived from his suite to their destination, he and Pinkie Pie stopped in the courtyard of the Canterlot Palace, where the other ponies were gathering for a concert of some extravagant pop star.

“Alright! Now we’re talking,” exclaimed the farm pony, “Mighty glad to see somepony’s joining in the fun.”

“If you think this’ll be fun,” answered the ecstatic one, “Then you’re really going to say that my Super-Crazy-Flying-Ninja Party is the most amazing party Pinkie has made, EVER!”

“Heh,” chuckled the hoarse mare with flapping wings nearby, “We’ll take your word for it.”

“And I’ve got the costumes ready, and everything! Thanks for that, Rarity!”

“My pleasure truly, darling,” joined the elegant voice of another, “Though it did put a hamper on a few things I needed to iron out here, I’m happy to contribute to you efforts, Pinkie. T’was also an intriguing look into the styles used for black by ninjas. Simple, elegant, yet oh, so very intimidating and effective.”

“Um, is it okay if some of us don’t want to wear them?”

“Don’t worry, Fluttershy,” beamed Pinkie, “I told Rarity to let me make a spare for you, just in case. That way, she didn’t have to worry too much about time, you don’t have to wear it if you don’t want to and won’t hurt anypony’s feelings, and I get to help in making one of those amazing costumes!”

“I just can’t wait to see Daredevil going out as a blind ninja for the party,” Rainbow Dash remarked, “Just saying that makes it sound even more awesome!”

“Yeah, well,” he shrugged in her direction, “Don’t get your hopes up. Might be disappointing, in the end.”

“Nevertheless, I think we’re all just happy to have you joining us,” said Twilight. Her voice, with Fluttershy and Rarity's, was a soothing comfort to his assaulted, enhanced pony ears. That last part, alone, spoke volumes to his former, human hearing. Then the Princess continued, “It’s always good to enjoy yourself, with friends all around.”

He could pick up on the wavering tension and anxiety within that statement. Especially after most recent developments.

“It’s what makes life worth living,” he grinned back.

“And,” Twilight said, “I think I speak for us all that I’m glad you accepted us as your friends.”

“It’s been my privilege.”

“Now then,” Rarity stated, “Best get this final décor set up. Ta-ta.”

It was while the ponies around him began to make the last-second touches on the stage that he sensed a startling shift in the air pressure. He noted Dash’s minor pause after adjusting to it in hover, but he was the only one paying close attention to it. The gust was enough to keep him curious, but small enough to only indicate a buildup on the other side of the mountains. He had heard from his room about the Pegasi scheduling clear skies throughout the Festival here. Yet this independent cluster began to grow and take shape. But what truly alarmed him was not how it glided directly towards them, but what might be hidden inside.

“Spike,” he evenly spoke, as he approached the young Dragon, “I need you to take a message for Starlight.”

“Uh, okay,” said Spike with uncertainty, “What for?”

“I’ll tell you, in a minute. Ready?”

“Hold on. Okay, yep.”

“Starlight, it’s come to my attention that something unexpected might unfold here, at the Festival. If you don’t hear from us in the next two hours, please be sure to inform Shining Armor, and send help, as soon as possible.”

“As possible…Wait. You think there might be trouble?”

“Well, if there is, I'm sure Twilight and the others can settle it.” Silently though, he grimaced at how this was not the time for that much-needed breather. As usual.

The Tempest We Know

~ Part I ~

He was not about to wait any longer. Soon, and very soon, that wild, approaching storm would reach its destination. He was even starting to hear the cracks and booms of lightning and thunder. All that energy was vibrating against the very core of his spine. Normally, that would have meant a bomb exploded nearby. Of course, he has yet to encounter what he would consider normal, these days. But every moment here seemed to show how much further his abilities have expanded.

After excusing himself from the concert, he made his way through the Palace halls in search of Pinkie Pie’s suite. Opening the unlocked door, to his mild curiosity, the blind pony entered to find the correct suitcase. As he brushed his hoof against the surface of each luggage, he detected movements of those outside watching the cloud formations.

Now, he was sure that, given his enhanced senses, it was understandable how even those with sight lacked the imagination for something like this. But, considering what he found by the vibrations against the case, he surmised Pinkie to be the most efficient and proficient in packing, in either worlds. It reminded him of his own cane, actually. So, relatively normal, in that regard.

But then he started to hear Pinkie talk about balloon deliveries, upon seeing the vessel come out from the rumbling clouds. Wasting no more time, the stallion unlocked the baggage, while the ship made its descent.

There she stood. On the ramp, in all her stone-cold glory. After the hissing mist and steam from the descending boardwalk, and the miniscule creature’s enthusiastic announcement, the purple mare approached the regents before her. Her crimson mane spiked tall, and steel black armor covered her bodice. Even her Mark was concealed by a cyan icon of some horned beast. Across her right eye of turquoise rested a mild scar. But these were not her most noticeable traits. What remained of her horn was a short, jagged stump that sent off the occasional spark of electricity.

“Tempest, was it,” began Princess Celestia, “How may we help you?”

With a small, snide grin, the Lieutenant grimly answered, “Oh, I’m so glad you asked. Let’s start with your complete, and total surrender.”

It was only a brief exchange. A simple demand for the Princesses’ magic, to which they refused. What came then from Tempest Shadow, before they could even respond, were small orbs that made sudden impact on the Regents of Day and Night. Zzzap-whoosh-POW!

“Celestia!” It was all happening too fast! Luna and Celestia were turned to stone before the latter could even finish her vital message! More ships had swiftly arrived to the towers, terraces and balconies, seemingly out of nowhere! From them sprung out massive beasts, masked, and heavily armed! Twilight and her friends had begun to flee from the utter chaos, hoping to find better means of defense. They nearly missed what almost happened to Cadence.

Zzzap-whoosh-whack! Just missing the Crystal Princess was another sphere that exploded on the road close by. The lavender Alicorn stopped to see what deflected that transformation projectile, and found an Earth Pony dressed in black. Only his yellow, gritted muzzle was seen from within, as he stood on hind legs, wielding a pair of red sticks.

“Hey,” Pinkie exclaimed, “That’s my ninja costume for Daredevil! And it fits him juuuust right, Rarity! Huh. But why’s he covering his face?”

“Forget that,” screamed Rainbow Dash, “Let’s get out of here!”

“Wait,” Twilight shouted, as they moved on to find cover, “I heard what Celestia tried to tell Luna! We need to get to-” BAM!

Again, everything happened all at once. First that Tempest pony found them and sent an orb her way, Rainbow pushed her to the side, next a grey Pegasus among the panicking crowds was nearly caught in the crossfire, and then the blind pony jumped in that mare’s place!

Despite the destruction all around them, nothing else mattered at that second. The moment they saw Daredevil slam against a wall, and sprawl onto the pavement.

Pew-pew!

“Go,” shouted Cadence, as they all looked on in horror, “Get to the Badlands! Hurry! I’ll draw them away!”

Seeing the pink Alicorn send volleys toward the oncoming horde, standing over the stallion with the stunned Pegasus close by, Twilight took the lead and ran southward. Hesitantly, Fluttershy watched a little longer, before following the rest, hoping she made the right decision and that everything will be alright.

“Innocent blood is being shed!”

“And you donated more than your fair share!” The spiraling cascade and wild winds made the burning coals below seem even hotter! Everything was coming down, at once!

“You know,” his friend continued, “every time I walk up those stairs, I wonder if this would be it. The day I find your lifeless body. In fact, I’m not going to let that happen.”

“Give that back, now!”

“Make me,” the venom in that remark equaled the rising smell of adrenaline, “I’ve seen all over the news what you do. How you operate. I think I’m doing you a huge favor by taking this underwear from here. Unless you want to beat me for it!”

“I’m done apologizing for who I am. And I’m already sick of your pestering concern for me! You want to take that, fine! But that won’t stop me from protecting my city!”

“Yeah? And at what cost?”

“Whatever it takes.”

“Even if that means no more Nelson & Murdock? Because I don’t know how much more I can take!”

“If that’s the direction you want to go in…then I won’t stop you.”

“Matt.” The gentle, soothing voice smothered all storms from continuing, as he slowly regained consciousness.

“Hey! He’s waking up!”

“Take it easy, Daredevil. Deep breaths, first.”

“I say, is that his true name? No wonder.”

“Nnnng…” Inhaling deeply through the nostrils, he groaned to the voices that hovered over him. He felt his chest sting at his intake of air, but then felt a limb helping him up from his neck.

“Is he okay? Please tell me that he’s okay!”

“He’s still delirious, Miss Do. But so far, he seems to have sustained no lethal damage.” Taking in his surroundings, he felt the vibrations on the ground and into his ears. The voices indicated Princess Cadence was present, along with her hoof and pulsating energy holding him steady. With her was another female, whose wings wrapped around a small Unicorn foal at her side, and a Unicorn stallion, whose firm composure has restrained his own anxiety.

“Oh, thank goodness,” exclaimed the former.

“My word,” said the latter, “are his eyes even functioning?”

“It’s his disability, Sir Fancy Pants,” said Cadence, “They’ve been that way, before.”

“B-But how…” stammered the mare, “How was he…how did he know?”

“Sight’s overrated.” His blunt reply mildly surprised them, as he gradually regained his equilibrium.

“How are you feeling,” Cadence asked.

“Just a small sting in my chest. Plus a little numb and unbalanced, at first. But fine overall, thanks.”

“I guess you should count your blessings, in that regard,” she chuckled nervously, “Considering what hit you, Celestia and Luna. And nearly me, if it weren't for you.”

“At least I was quick enough to save someone.”

“And me too,” Miss Do joined in, carrying her daughter, “I’m Ditzy Do, but friends call me Muffins. I want to thank you too, for…making sure I made it back…to my little Dinky Do, safe and sound.”

“Daredevil,” he replied, offering a hoof to shake, “Nice to make your acquaintance. And, you’re welcome.”

“And a pleasure to make yours, good sir,” the Unicorn took his hoof also, “Fancy Pants.”

“Likewise.”

“Though I must say,” Sir Pants continued, “from what I heard, you shouldn’t be able to regain consciousness, let alone stand.”

“Those orbs must only effect Alicorns,” Cadence offered with wary, “Magic like that from a dismembered Unicorn like Tempest Shadow, that...more than raises some concerns.”

“From what I could tell,” Daredevil said, “Nothing was under her armor to indicate she had the Amulet.”

“So she’s not in league with Horizon Rider, or those conspirators?”

“Not likely, Cadence. Though I’m guessing the devil we know won't use it to intervene, either.”

“Might be a little too strong with that expression." Warily eyeing the filly listening, Cadence spoke further, "But why do you say that?”

“They might use this incident to help raise their point. That the Elements abandoned everyone, in their moment of absolute need.”

“That can’t be true,” exclaimed Ditzy, “I-Is it?”

“No, Miss Do,” Cadence firmly answered, “It isn’t. As we speak, they’re making their way to the Badlands, and looking for someone who can help us with these…Storm Creatures, as they call themselves.”

“They kind of look like giant-white-gorilla-minotaur things.” The little one finally spoke, prompting the blind pony to chuckle.

“They’re looking for a queen, down south from there,” Cadence warmly continued, “Aunt Celestia was talking about the Queen of Hippos.”

“Hippogriffs,” he stated, “I caught the ‘g’ before…she was cut off. So, I’m guessing Hippogriffs.”

“You saw Hippogriffs in Manehatten,” Dinky asked in amazement.

“No, not really,” he sniggered more at that, “Just…heard about them, in fables and legends.”

“Oh,” she gasped, “Right. Because of your eyes. My Mommy-”

“Not right now, sweetie,” Ditzy gently spoke, “But what do we do now, while we wait? I mean, how do we even know these Hippogriffs can, or will help?”

“I agree,” Fancy Pants responded, “There must be something to be done here. Someway of weakening these Storm Creatures, or cause some confusion at least.”

“They’ve been rounding everypony up,” said Cadence, “Sweetie Drops, a former agent of Aunt Celestia’s, was able to mark out checkpoints of where they’re being herded.”

“If we break open a few of their gathering sights,” Daredevil surmised, “You think that could frustrate them enough to scatter their forces throughout the city?"

"Maybe weaken their stronghold at the Palace, itself. Yes.”

"Can also gather those we rescue for some form of uprising."

“I say,” remarked Fancy Pants, “For a blind pony counselor, you sound as though you speak from experience.”

“Back at you.”

“I wasn’t knighted by mere fame and fortune, you know. At any rate, where do we begin?”

“Everything is in place,” Lieutenant Shadow stated, “You should be able to scour the entire city, and find that pink Princess, Sergeant Dis. And you know what to do, the minute you find her.”

“Take her back to the Palace, immediately,” the Storm Beast drawled in response, as they walked down the hall. “I know. The Storm King made you his lieutenant for your crazy magic, but I’ve been at this way longer than you.”

“Are you questioning your King? And here I thought you were his most loyal officer.”

“I always will be. Whereas you, Tempest Shadow, failed to capture all four of the Princesses, when they were all standing in front of you like sitting ducks.”

“I promise you, Princess Twilight will be in custody, before the Storm King arrives in three days. Can you make that promise?”

“Before day’s end,” he retorted, “I will capture Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, and crush whatever ponies stand in my way. Blind-folded, or not.”

“Proving your loyalties to the Storm King even further, I’m guessing.”

“I’ve always trusted my King’s decision-making. And I would agree that you’ve been more than useful to him. But even then, like his last lieutenant, your usefulness will wear out. Maybe we’re seeing signs of that, alre-” POW! ZZzzt-zzzzzz…

Before he could even utter a groan in pain, Sergeant Dis felt himself being thrown across the hall, and smashing the doors wide open. Static shock engulfed his entire being.

“Unless you can prove yourself more loyal, and more useful to your King,” Tempest shouted on, “Watch what you say to me, from here on out! And it’s Lieutenant Tempest Shadow to you, Sergeant!”

“Yeah,” cheered Grubby from beside her, “You better watch out, Dis!”

Ignoring him, the purple Unicorn firmly made her way to her airship, in pursuit of the Element of Magic.

Closer and closer the makeshift gateway was heard opening. Creak. And the clanking-clang of chains scraped against the road. Their cold scent of steel rubbed against the disheveled manes and coats they enraptured. Sniffs and whimpers indicated how many had become so afraid and downtrodden by these sudden turn of events. Many were clinging to their small loved ones as much as they could, while others tried to show defiance toward their captors. Heart rates and perspiration were more than enough to show how scared, anxious and upset they all were. It was a virtual flood of endless dread all around him, in this dead of night.

“Hurry up, you,” growled one of the troops from over him, “Not too hard to follow the chain-pull from your neck! Can do it with your eyes closed, if you have to! Oh, wait. Don’t need to. MOVE IT!”

“I’ll have you brutish fiends know,” he heard the leading Unicorn of the train whine, “You’ll have much to answer for, when my Auntie comes to get you!”

“Shut up!” After prodding fiercely against his coat with a lance, the stallion yelped out in pain. Though the blind pony could tell it was only to intimidate, he wondered if that Unicorn was genuinely delicate. Probably from his pampered lifestyle, given the smell of cologne and hair gel with the sweat from up there.

“Don’t you even know who I am?! I’m Prince Blue-”

“Don’t care! I said MOVE!” Whick-TAH!

“Ah!” Hearing the response from that drawn whip nearly made Daredevil laugh, given it was not even close to that blowhard’s ears.

“And I told you to quit stalling,” the beast went back to badger him, now. Whick-TAAH! “GET MOVING!”

“Easy. I’m blind, not deaf,” he muttered back, cringing at his best efforts to filter most of the noise. “So ease up, why don’t yo-” WhhAACK!

“And no back-talk from you, either! Or your precious, pony friends will get some, too!”

“Alright! Okay! Sheesh.”

Normally, he would not complain aloud like this, but he also had to act the part. Once inside the pen and they all stopped, he went for the filing tools under his black garments, given him by Sweetie Drops.

“Alright, listen,” he hissed lowly, directing his voice ahead first, then behind. “Pass the word. Princess Cadence is outside with help, waiting for the signal to come and rescue us. Once you’re all done using the file I pass down to you, tug twice. Then I’ll send the signal. But please, keep it quiet.”

The grrish-grrish of shaved metal was kept as quiet as possible, as Daredevil sent one file in each direction, and loosened his own bonds with a third. Providentially, the Storm Creatures were not caring so much of what the frightened ponies were up to in their pen. Nor did they seem to recognize the costume he decided to keep on and carry the tools inside. All they seemed to worry about was probably the next squadron delivering more hostages.

"Well, it's about time," he heard the snob Prince's hissed remark. He could not resist thinking the verse, "The last shall be first."

He had been scanning his surroundings, while the other prisoners were freeing themselves, knowing that despite no physical trace to spot them, Cadence and the others have been watching. The moment he would send out the signal, he knew to anticipate that burst of energy from their teleportation. From ten blocks out.

He was also taking this time to practice even further in adjusting to these expanded senses. Whether it was due to the unique energy of this world, the transformation to a more sensitive creature than humans, or a combination of both, he could hear, smell, taste and feel far more than ever before. But that extension also meant a further need to adjust to how much he took in, by dampening his awareness every once in a while. The same way Stick taught him as a child.

Then Daredevil felt two tugs from behind him. After waiting a short while after, the same happened up front. Gingerly, he brushed passed his fellow ponies, and made his way towards the guard holding his cane. The only Storm Creature was still within earshot from the others. So, as soon as he knew none of them were even facing this direction, he made his move.

Reaching through the fence, and lifting the cane with the guard’s grip, he swiftly brought it around the Creature’s throat, cutting off circulation. Knocking him out, and leaning him against the fence, Daredevil kept the weight on his legs to feign a standing position in case. Next he retrieved something else from his ninja costume, and took it to the nearby torch.

Pshh-EEEEeeeeruh! Poom!

“Hey, you! What’d you think you’re doing, huh?”

The bursting firework brought all the Creatures’ attentions onto his position, prompting him to act on impulse. Placing the ninja mask over his eyes, he leapt over the fence, split his cane into batons, and reared back on hind legs.

He silently awaited their charge onto him, their stomping sprints gave him exactly what he needed. First he crouched, then lunged forward to avoid the first strike and make his counterattack. Swinging his leg outward, he tripped the first goon, then leapt up towards the second. He sent two strikes onto his opponent’s masked face, then kicked at the chest. As that one flew back onto a third enemy, Daredevil threw back one baton onto the first one’s head, before he could get back up, which bounced back into his waiting hoof.

“Over there!” Four more responded to that shout, heading his way around the corner. The three struggling finally got back up, afterward. Now with eight on top of him, he used the batons to receive the swinging fist of the first reinforcement, and directed that force onto two of them from behind. Sensing another punch coming at him, he bent down on all fours, then lashed back with a buck. Poom!

Pling! Poof! Upon hearing the dispensed energy from Cadence’s arrival, he made for the fence and jumped off it. He landed twin blows on two of the Storm Creatures' faces while midair, then rolled onto the pavement, away from the pen.

Taking the lure, all eight advanced towards him, unaware of the gate from the other side being opened. They suddenly charged at once, diving towards him with every weapon and fist at their disposal. He somersaulted back, making them dog-pile right in front of him. On his back, Daredevil made another buck onto the closest masked beast. POWblblbblblb!

Like pins in a bowling lane, he sent them all flying. It was then he realized how much his strength, agility and endurance have been affected also. Then he noticed them rising back from the ground.

Beeyur. The engulfing field of radiating sparks told him who caused the goons’ obstruction. Levitated crates, barrels and baskets struck at strategic points to immobilize half of the guards. After seeing the cause of their moaning comrades, two each went after the pair of stallions.

As Sir Pants used a long two-by-four to parry, deflect, and retaliate, the blind attorney went for the legs again, and swung his batons at their lowered heads. They would try to get an arm up for a block, but he would keep at his barrage of assaults, until they were too delirious to even look up.

“I say,” Daredevil heard the Unicorn gasp, as he heaved deep breaths in a snarl. “Having much festered rage inside, don’t we?”

He then recalled the shattered sounds and bent pieces of metal from his baton strikes and kicks, and detected the masks now in pieces. The Creatures’ faces were badly bruised and swollen already, with fractures at the jawlines and snouts. Just then, he jolted his head upward, twitching his ears to listen.

“Someone’s coming. We need to get to the others. Now.”

He and Sir Fancy Pants darted around the pen as quickly as they could, only to hear the sudden sounds of drawn blades and explosions that muffled the screams from freed ponies. Pounding quakes from the rushing charge of Storm Creatures enveloped all ponies into a huddled circle, with the Princess and Agent Drops in front of them all.

“You know,” rumbled a low, snide voice, “For ponies so caring, and friendly, and passionate about each other, I wasn’t expecting this rescue mission to take this long. You’re more patient and tact than the Storm King gives you credit. More trouble to catch too, from our experience with Tempest.”

“You take the troops flanking him,” he whispered to Sir Pants, “Then I’ll take him head-on.”

“What good would that bring?”

“I’ll come in from the other side, make them think they’re attacked from all sides. They’ll be confused, and you can help Cadence and Drops get everyone out.”

“What about you?”

“I’ll be right behind you.”

“Now,” the growling sneer continued, “I’m sure Lieutenant Shadow would be more than happy to join you with the other Princesses. That small, purple one seemed easy enough to take care of, after she was found.”

Picking up on that lie, he caught on to the ringleader’s ploy to get at Cadence’s nerves, which were gladly more than steeled enough to keep any anxiety or anger from showing.

“You know this will never end how you think,” she firmly answered, as Daredevil cut through the pen, quietly making it to the other side.

“Maybe,” the beast shrugged, “Nothing ever goes exactly as planned. But, I’m sure the Storm King will make do. Take them to the Palace.”

“Yes, Sergeant!”

Wrap-tap-tap!

After making that sudden sound with his cane, he sensed the glittering energy from Sir Pants striking at the two guards. Jilting his head back and forth, the leader first stepped to seize Cadence forcefully, to which she responded with a blast from her own horn before taking off.

As she hovered and made a swift dive toward other incoming hostiles, Sweetie Drops and Fancy Pants took after the nearest enemies at their disposal. At that, the blind stallion sent his linked non-chuck unto the leader. Wrapping it around his unsheathed weapon, Daredevil leapt at him.

He pulled the armed limb away from any potential targets, then lashed out his free hoof to knock it out of the paw. Then diving under, he swerved to wrap the wire around the legs, then jumped to flip over the head. The moment he landed on his hind legs, he used both front hooves to pull from his end, and sent the Storm Creature head-first onto the pavement. Fwap-boom!

What he sensed next, however, was the beast’s strength against the non-chucks. Kicking wildly upward, the sergeant sent the loosened cable off and away, then grabbed it to make his own response. Pulling on the string made Daredevil suddenly loose his balance. Only for a second, but that was enough for the beast to send two monstrous blows from above. Bam! Whop!

Sent onto the ground himself, Daredevil rolled away from the booming pair of fists that followed, but was then held down by his leg and was pulled back. Swinging around to face his opponent, he sent his free leg with a massive kick to retaliate. But that one was caught also, and was followed by a great swing from over the monster’s shoulder, and then pounded his body onto the road again. Pam-BOOM!

His cane far out of reach, he leaned forward to take hold of the Storm Creature’s vice. Using the next swing’s momentum, he slipped out of the grip, then landed his freed legs onto the enemy’s head. PAM!

He then tilted his head and ears toward the charging brute with something small in his paw. Not taking any chances, he weaved to avoid the thrown projectile that was a dagger, caught it, and then threw it back by its blade. The hilt smacked against the Storm Creature, causing him to stagger back.

Taking this chance, he darted to his twin non-chucks for retrieval, only to stop directly before an exploding orb. POW!

Sailing backward, he landed straight into the sergeant’s grasp, whose massive arms tightened, and started to squeeze the air from his chest. As he fought to breathe, kicking frantically for a weak point in the monster’s grasp and stance, Daredevil could barely hear the shouts from the fleeing ponies. He could not make out what was being said, or if Cadence and the others were getting away. Familiar with this part of suffocation, he knew he needed to act quickly.

Whop! Unleashing all his remaining strength, the blind stallion sent a head-buck against the Storm Creature’s own. Dazed, he loosened his grip enough for Daredevil to slip out once more. Kicking off the sergeant’s chest, he performed an aerial cartwheel towards his non-chucks. After clicking them back together, he swung his bo-staff unto the Creature’s legs to send him earthbound. Poom!

The moment he got back up, the pony felt a whoosh of air from behind, along with high-pitched resonance from the Alicorn’s magic. After regaining his bearings, he was able to detect all prisoners have fled from the compound, with Sir Pants and Agent Drops leading them. Provided with this opportunity, he shuffled back from the pinned down sergeant, and stood beside the descending Cadence, who sent them both teleporting to join the rest. Poof!

“How could you allow one princess and three cronies, one being blind-folded, evade your grasp, and let loose an entire compound of chained ponies?!”

“The same way you allowed one princess and six cronies, one a baby Dragon, evade you not once, but twice now!”

“It’s not like they were staring directly at my face the second time! So careful with your tone at me, Sergeant!”

“Not ‘til you’ve earned my respect, Lieutenant! Would’ve guessed you don’t know me well enough!”

“Maybe I should be there sooner, and take care of things, myself.” Through a magical spectrum, the third party spoke. All stood in the occupied throne room, as they continued to speak.

“I assure you, Storm King,” Tempest Shadow evenly stated, “That won’t be necessary. I’ll have them. And I would’ve, if it weren’t for those rebel pirates.”

“Almost like that cursed Malachite’s still with us,” Sergeant Dis added, “Though who was the last one who had it?”

“I was the one who convinced the Storm King to destroy it, in the first place.”

“Which makes me wonder, all the more.”

“But the thought never occurred to you.”

“Be quiet, you two! I can’t seem to get a word out to either of you, without hearing another insult! What have you got to report, Lietenant?”

“I found Princess Sparkle’s map to Mount Aris on Captain Caeleno’s ship. Burned the ship down for her treachery, and sent a couple scouts to watch Aris for their appearance. Their dumb luck won’t last long, now.”

“What about you, Sergeant?”

“Princess Mi Amore just played right into my trap, Sire. By thinking she got away from me, I was able to slip one of your orbs into that freak’s costume. When he takes off that outfit, and accidently drops it, the Princess is all but captured, and I’ll know exactly where her statue will be held in her honor.”

“But poor Princess Mi Amore Cadenza,” mockingly whined Grubber from the side, “Seriously, what kind of parents name their kid something like that, only to have it on a plaque? ‘Cause that’s all it’s good for, am I right?”

“What a dolt,” Tempest voiced for the deadpan King.

As they made their way to the cellar, Princess Cadence, Sir Fancy Pants, Agent Sweetie Drops and Daredevil tallied all twenty-three of the ponies they had rescued. One by one, as they went down the stairs, the four ponies made sure they were all accounted for. The others found it a great relief to know Daredevil was able to keep track of how many heartbeats from the captured, compared to how many now with them.

“Oh, thank goodness! You all made it alright!”

“And happier for it too, Velvet,” the Alicorn smiled to the lavender mare, “Thanks for getting things ready here.”

“After what you just did to keep me and Nightlight from getting captured? It’s the least we could’ve done!”

“No kidding,” said the blue Unicorn, “And what better time to sort out our cellar, than to make space for other captured ponies?”

“Even better to know we’ve all been doing our part,” Cadence said more warmly. "Again, thank you both."

“Here, here,” exclaimed the Sir Pants, “Though I’m afraid not all is as pleasant as we’d like.”

“Yeah,” Agent Drops joined with awkward reluctance in her tone, “Turns out we got with us the noisiest, most arrogant, selfish, and ungrateful noble with our group.”

“Counselor Daredevil is working to settle the issue, as we speak.”

“Well, goodness,” chuckled Twilight Velvet, “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that sounded like Cadence’s adopted cousin.”

“And whom do you think you’re speaking to, peasant!?” A whining voice echoed through the stairwell. “I have half a mind to report you to my Auntie Celestia!”

“And if I didn’t know any better,” quipped Nightlight, “I’d say that sounded like her adopted cousin too.”

“Take it easy,” calmly spoke an unmasked Daredevil, “He just wants to know if you’ve seen his wife. Don’t need to overreact that way.”

“Overreact! I’ve been assaulted and captured by massive beasts, whipped, mocked and beaten by said beasts, kept in a pen like the swine you all are, and you say that I am overreacting!?”

“You’re calling my wife a pig?! Why you-”

“Easy, easy,” he told the upset Earth Pony beside him, “I’m sorry, sir. But it won’t do any good wasting time with this guy. Even if he’s seen her.”

“But I’ve got to try everything I can,” said the stallion shakily in reply, “I don’t even know if she was in the same place as me, or was taken to another one across Canterlot! And all he does is insult her?!”

“You won’t help her by assaulting him. Just keep asking around. Move on from here. You’ve already done more than you could with him. Please use your energy of finding her wisely. For her sake.”

The blind counselor’s soothing voice of reason seemed to sway the poor pony to press on, and ignore any further banters and insults from the snob Prince.

“As a counselor by profession,” he then spoke to Blueblood, “I advise you to find a solitary corner away from the public, before anyone here would press charges for anything you might say or do here. I’m sure that’d be something more your speed.”

“I don’t need your advice, worm. And I’m more than capable of taking care to avoid such low-lives, as yourselves.”

“You better believe it, Counselor,” he heard the Pegasus mare join in, “In fact, you didn’t have to take him with you?”

“Mu-Muffins?”

“And you have no right to call me that, Coldblood.”

“Miss Do,” said Daredevil, striving to maintain his own composure, “Despite this stallion’s apparent lack of courtesy, are you suggesting we should’ve left him to the Storm Creatures’ mercy? Or lack thereof?”

“Not suggesting. Telling.”

“Then I take it you two know each other?”

“More than I would’ve liked,” Ditzy coldly responded, “So I'm asking you to put a restraining order on him, Counselor. He shouldn’t be anywhere near anypony, at all. Especially my filly.”

“Filly,” yelled Blueblood in genuine shock, “Muffin-Ditzy, wait!”

“Prince Blueblood,” Daredevil placed a hoof up to stop him, “Since you refused my services, I’m more inclined to honor Miss Do’s wishes, and keep you away from her and her daughter.”

“Oh, really, sightless slime,” he hissed back, his horn humming with energy, “And what, pray tell, will you do abou-” Whack!

Gasps and shouts echoed throughout the entire basement, as all had been quietly viewing this entire scene.

“By your provocation, and in her defense. I’m sure others can collaborate with that.”

“Oh my, Celestia! W-what did you do to my-Ah! B-b-b-blood…” Finding the red liquid on his hoof after touching his snout, Prince Blueblood fell limp onto the floor. Flop.

“That was easier than I thought,” Daredevil remarked with a head tilt.

“I see you've met my cousin,” he heard Cadence finally speak, after watching also.

“I apologize, Cadence. But from what I’ve heard from your in-laws, I’m glad to know he was adopted.”

“Um, actually Counselor…”

“Right. Sorry.”

“Other than his nose, though, no harm’s been done,” she chuckled back, “Again, thanks to you. Ever dreamed of being a guard and keeper of the peace, when you were small?”

“No,” he sniggered back, “First I wanted to be a boxer like my Dad. But he as all-out against it. Made sure I stuck to my studies. So, that’s what I did for him, after he was gone.”

“So you decided to become an attorney, then?”

“Well, if someone’s going to point hooves at someone else, why not someone who won’t see it?” They both shared a brief mirth from that. “But actually, I uh…I was first taught how to really fight by some old warrior. He was born blind, even.”

“Who was he? Have I heard of him?”

“I doubt it. He never even told me his name. Just the one his enemies knew him by. One with double-meaning in it. Stick. One for the cane-concealed blade he used. The other for how brutal and ruthless he was. Especially toward his students.”

“He was abusive.”

“Most would say that. But that’s only because he’d been teaching me through actual practice and fighting techniques. Same way he, and dozens of generations were taught. In the end, he was giving me a purpose, showing me how to use the gifts and weaknesses bestowed on me for a greater cause. Back when I had nothing.”

“Except your caretakers, though.”

“Yes, of course.”

“The must’ve been when you gained your Cutie Mark. So, you considered him another father?”

“I did. But he wasn’t too keen on the idea. So he taught me everything he wanted me to learn, to be a warrior for his battles, and just up and left. So out of spite, I just went back to the books, ‘til I was out of university and starting my own firm. Thought I could be of equal use both in the courtroom, and out on the streets.”

“I’m…I’m sorry.” It was then he felt the touch of feathers reaching his back, which then enwrapped him with sisterly affection. “I should’ve known better than to bring up something so painful. I know something about that, myself.”

“Don’t be,” he shrugged back, “At the end of the day, there’s nothing about my past I would've changed. I was able to learn from it, and became a better pe-pony for it. And from what your husband told me, that’s something you’d know more about, also.”

“Thanks.” Lifting her wing up and folding it back, Cadence took a deep breath in reprieve. “After I ascended to Alicorn, getting this horn and everything, I had never been so scared. And that’s saying something, considering how little I was, and after I just stood up to face a witch threatening to destroy my village and adopted family.”

“Must’ve loved them well enough to be afraid for them, instead of yourself.”

“And that’s when I got my Cutie Mark, too. Knowing that those around me, their lives had just as much worth individually, but more so as collectively. That my life for theirs was more than worth the trade, even if my efforts to be brave for them seemed pointless. Anyway, Celestia took me into her Palace to teach me how to master these new skills in magic, and she became a second mother to me. Helping me to overcome what I thought was impossible for me to handle.”

“But that still took you away from your adopted home, didn’t it?”

“Afraid so. Nothing was perfect. Especially since my contact with them was limited to a few letters, and seldom visits. Not to mention the completely different lifestyle I found myself in. I don’t know how Celestia managed, all this time. And despite her best efforts, Blueblood, her twenty-or-so great nephew from her mother’s side, like so many others, never took the same lesson to heart. So, like she advised me, I let him go, and left him to his own personal affairs. That he could learn and know better, on his own. Same with my family, but with much more difficulty and effort involved. That’s where Shining and Twilight were a great help. Taking me into their own family, when I was just Twilight’s foalsitter. Long before I married Shining. Guess he finally decided to make it official that way.”

“Now you started a family of your own. Couldn’t be any happier for you all.”

“And Flurry wouldn’t have to grow up with the same pain we both had. So, again, I can’t thank you enough.”

“Like you said, their lives are worth more than our own. They’re what make life worth living. Just wish I’d taken that to heart sooner, myself.”

“Thought you said you wouldn’t change anything,” she smirked.

“Doesn’t mean I can’t have regrets, before,” he answered back, “Still, I’m glad my experiences have brought me here, even-”

Just then, he shifted around to notice something tucked away, inside his costume. At first, when Cadence put her wing on his back, that was all it was. But after finding the contact to his coat still present, he became alert by his suspicions.

“What’s wrong?” Cadence’s voice resonated against him, confirming what it was, much to his horror.

“Cadence,” he lowly spoke, “Don’t cause any alarm, but listen. Reach for my back again, and check through it.”

“Why,” she asked, as she followed his silent request, “What seems to be the prob-Oh, no.”

“That.”

The pink Alicorn gently lifted the black cloth with her primaries, and saw the small, charcoal orb. The moment she did, it suddenly rolled down from the blind pony’s withers. Catching it with levitation, she examined it more closely. “How did this get there?”

“Must’ve happened when that Storm Creature sergeant was choking me. Thought that if any you saved me from him, that would be here to use on you. And I wouldn’t have found it sooner, if you hadn’t…”

“And you couldn’t detect anything before, because of your dizziness from losing so much air. That reminds me, you should be seeing a doctor. I should’ve thought of that sooner, myself. Given what injuries you might’ve sustained, like punctured lungs.”

“But that might’ve triggered it to fall also, causing more damage, even if you weren’t immediately present.”

“So many ponies would’ve been badly hurt. Or worse.”

They had been keeping their exchange to a light whisper, as though they were just breathing. In a way, that was exactly what they did, only with words through the soft, voiceless air. They were hoping that nopony else would hear about this, at least not until they needed to be told.

“Well, now that we’ve found it in time,” she continued to the gold-yellow stallion, “Any suggestions?”

At that, she saw him raise a brief smirk as he said, “How about I tell you with the others, after we tell them about the orb.”

Upon that remark, Cadence smiled mischievously also, and began to share the same thoughts and ideas as the blind pony beside her.

to be continued…

The Tempest We Know ~ Part II ~

Boom. Boom. Boom. Boom. Boom.

“Okay, hear they come.” As Agent Sweetie Drops took her position, packed and ready, she saw Sir Fancy Pants doing the same on the opposite side. Eyeing Princess Cadence in grey paint, they watched her and Daredevil take their own places after setting off the orb. While she stood completely still, in the middle of the open plaza and near the fountain, he lied down from a distance, as though he were blasted like before. The rumbles and shakes from the Storm Creatures’ arrival grew even more ferocious, until they stopped before the two in the crater.

“Typical ponies,” scoffed the Sergeant, “Second they see another one of their pretty princesses petrified, they run off. Seize her.”

As two of the goons took off and retrieved her frozen form, he looked at his adversary from last night in furrowed brow.

“Wait a sec."

"What's up, Sarge," asked another.

"His costume.”

“What about it, sir,” grunted a fourth.

“Should be more damaged than that. And what’s it doing still on him?” He advanced towards the blind pony to check, when he saw the two troopers for seizure knocked down by lightning. Just then, the grey Alicorn took off. Bzzzt-POP!

“NOW!” At that, the lying pony bucked him at the chest, then rose onto his hind legs in a black blur.

“Get them!” Upon the Sergeant’s command, the surprised lackeys charged forward, only to find something land, plop-bomp, right in front of them. Click. Pop! Bang! Wheeze! Splat! Heavily packed cases of pink with confetti-balloon décor spontaneously burst out as the locks came off. Firecrackers, silly string, cupcakes, pies and even water balloons assaulted the bewildered Creatures into a retreat. Only to be greeted by the beige Earth Pony and pale-blue Unicorn cutting them off.

At this great confusion, Dis suddenly felt a blow to his head by the blind-folded stallion, carrying his duel non-chucks with equal ferocity. As Sir Pants and Agent Drops immobilized the delirious and outwitted Storm Creatures, Princess Cadence and Counselor Daredevil made their own advance. With the stallion's blows from the ground, the grey mare gave Dis air strikes to further disorient him.

“AAAAAHHHH!” In a fit of rage, the Sergeant made one stride forward, only to be as quickly overpowered. He then found himself ensnared by wrapped non-chucks, which came off after a blue magical barrier enveloped him.

“Yeah,” cheered Sweetie Drops, “Boy, that brought back good memories. Like that chimera I hunted down with my partners.”

“Quite. Positively thrilling, indeed,” smirked Fancy Pants, “Shame it wasn’t the leader we were expecting, though.”

“Look out!” Whack! Ka-pow! After the blind pony’s shout, he batted an orb heading Cadence’s way with his non-chuck. At that, the four ponies found themselves suddenly overrun by more Storm Creatures. Surrounding the plaza, they raised their lances and swords directly at them, while archers took to the rooftops.

“One false move, and somepony gets it!” At that shout of warning, a familiar, jagged stump emerged from a dark alley. Smiling in satisfaction, Tempest Shadow passed though the horde. “Looking for me?”

The Tempest We Know

~ Part II ~

“Thank you for being the perfect bait, Sergeant,” Lieutenant Shadow remarked, “Suppose you have your uses, after all.”

“This was my assignment, Tempest,” growled Dis, as the force field faded from him, “You shouldn’t be here!”

“And if I hadn’t shown up, you would’ve been captured and interrogated. Maybe even kept for a bargaining chip, or used to infiltrate. Either you’re useful to them, or me.”

“Neither! I’m always loyal to the Storm King! I would’ve found a way to get them from the inside!”

“I severely doubt that,” she chuckled back, “Now, back to our current situation. Princess Cadence, love what you did with yourself. It suits you.”

“Given the circumstances, I thought it might catch your attention.”

“Anypony that even teleports will bear witness to the others being struck down," Tempest continued, "Any movement that catches their attention makes them send a volley, right on the spot.”

“You know this won’t end in any way you've intended,” continued the Alicorn, “Even if you succeed here.”

“If you refer to your precious husband’s sister, we found her and her pathetic friends. Your power is all but secure, now. All of you.”

“And the Storm King,” asked the blind one, “What then? Expect him to just let you have it?”

“He’ll give me what I’m owed.”

“By what? His promise to you? Because, so far, all I can pick up about him is how absent he is in all this.”

“You think you can insult the Storm King like that!?”

“Sergeant, stand down.”

“NO! I don’t follow orders from some low pony, regardless of rank! I follow only the Storm King! And he deserves the fear and intimidation of all he and his armies have beaten!”

“Who said he’s beaten us yet? He’s not even here.”

“Let me just snap shut that muzzle for you, blind ninja and show you how his power is known, even from far away!”

“Sergeant…” POW! Bling! Clickity-click-whizzzzz-click-whizzz! Plinkity-plink-plick-puck-pew!

Even if Dis had listened to Tempest, he was too close to back up in time. The second he came up to Daredevil, Cadence blasted him, and worked to make a sudden force field for the surrounded ponies. Sir Fancy Pants immediately went to reinforce it as best he could, not taking chances with leaving the Princess to fend for all four, by herself.

As the Unicorn ignited his own horn, Agent Sweetie Drops and the blind stallion quickly took to their comrades’ sides, as close as they could.

“I’ll teleport us out of here,” began the Alicorn, “Sir Pants, keep us shielded!” Bang-BAM! Boom!

Tempest’s jagged stump had ignited also, sending a massive blast against the pinned combatants. Caught off guard, the two barrier ponies lost their concentration to keep it up for the oncoming orbs.

With a whack, smack and pop, the stallion in black used his batons to bat each one away. Two even went in Tempest and Dis’ direction, who each took a grunt Creature for a shield. After they were solidified, the two Storm Officers advanced past them, only to be met by the beige and golden Earth Ponies.

“Dibs on the left one,” Sweetie spoke evenly. “I’m a sucker for giant beasts.”

“Fair enough.” ZZzzzt-PSZZzzzz-bop!

A baton was sent her way, and Tempest’s horn was cut off from making another blast. Then Daredevil charged at her, with the other in hoof. With the mare agent weaving and evading the Sergeant’s assaults, Lieutenant Shadow matched the blind stallion blow for blow. Every kick, swing, punch and lunge he also met with twin red sticks. And much to her gritted fury, each time she tried to light up some electricity, no matter how much space she tried to gain from him, he threw stick after stick at her and landed every, single shot. Then, after he united them with a wire string, he would send them outward to grapple onto her leg, neck, snout, and even the unfortunate lackey she threw at him. Then did she finally send a blast his way, forcing him to cartwheel away. ZZzzt-Poom-bang! Whish-whish-whoo!

“Hold still, you little pest!” Hearing the poom-bams of Sergeant Dis squashing and missing Agent Drops, who then pulled out a grappling hook and cable herself, the Lieutenant activated her magic with a sizzle, then levitated three more Storm Creatures towards her opponent, all at once. As he ducked, slid and leapt away from all three, Tempest took her chance to take down a soaring Cadence. As the Alicorn immobilized more archer brutes from the air, she barely caught sight of a round projectile from Tempest, and spun away.

“Back to me,” she shouted, “We have to leave, now!”

Ka-blam-POW! “Princess!”

Two more orbs flew at Cadence, forcing her to weave, but then lose sight of the electric blast that came after. Before Daredevil could get away from the recovering Storm Creatures in time, he heard the explosions and Sir Pants’ outcry. The fumbling Sergeant Sweetie had wrapped up suddenly broke free of the cable, forcing the mare to retreat. As Fancy Pants levitated the falling, dazed Princess safely to the ground, he was joined by the mare agent. And while a small, golden shield of magic came up to block more attacks, the blind Earth Pony shuffled back also. Only to stop in front of the other three ponies.

“The alley behind you is clear,” said Daredevil, “Take her, and run. I’ll hold them off as best I can.”

“No, wa-” Pling-poof!

Hearing Sweetie Drops interrupted by that burst, but sensing one pony still behind him, he tilted his head back. “What’re you doing?”

“Just step back,” he heard Cadence groan, “I’ll send us both!” While doing so, he joined his non-chucks back together for a staff. Standing on hind legs he swung away arrow, after arrow, after orb. Ping-pong-bat-smack-ting! Boom!

Just as she made contact with his leg, however, Tempest sent a current onto Cadence’s horn with a bang, and shocking her down through her spine. And before he could retaliate, Daredevil felt the same experience. Bam-zzzzzzzz!

“Well, then,” muttered the Lieutenant, “If that’s your idea of showing your King’s power, I’m not impressed.”

“Shut it, pony.”

“What was that, Sergeant?” ZZZZzzt.

“I said…thanks for the assist, Lieutenant.”

“You’re welcome. Now, was that so hard? I’ll take these two with me on my ship to Aris. That way, you have much less to worry about.”

“Such as?”

“Such as finding those escaped ponies. I’m sure you could catch their scent easily. Given how close you’d gotten to them.”

“With all due respect, Lieutenant Shadow, that makes it one of you, and two of them. You sure you can match them?”

“You’re right. I should also take you along as their pin cushion. Again.”

“I’ll,” growled Dis, “I’ll track those ponies down.”

“The opportunity is now much closer, Matt. Soon, you will begin to open up to your new friends.”

After the gentle voice had finished speaking, he lost contact of its presence, followed by everything flooding back towards him again. Suffocating, smothering, losing air, burning without end!

“He never cared for you,” screamed Elektra.

“I wanted a soldier, you wanted a father.”

“Then I guess we were both disappointed,” was his response.

“Yeah, guess so.” But before the old man would depart, he asked, “Was it worth it?”

“What?”

“Loving them?”

“You don’t love me,” screamed a second woman, “You’re still just stuck on losing Karen, that’s all!”

Feeling the metal band and stone placed into his hand, she continued, “If you really do love me, you will call off the wedding.”

“Milla, stop! Wait!” CLANG! Sensing her strapped form behind the steel door only worsened the experience.

“I know you never listened when I said you should stop being a lone wolf,” said his partner, “Which is the real reason why I can’t take this anymore. Because what’s changed? Tell me, Matt. What?”

“Mattie, please. Listen to me.”

“Why? I never knew you existed, and yet here you are asking me to hear you out, Sister Maggie. You just cut me and Dad out of your life. So easy, too.”

All the voices soon cluttered and overwhelmed his ears, along with constant blasts of gunfire, swishing blades and explosions. “Hit me.”

Then the wailing sirens. WHUUUUUEEEEEEeeeeeeeer!

“Now, I know what you’re thinking,” said the gruff Marine, “One shot. One chance to stop me from killing Dino Gnucci. Can’t break lose in time, haven’t got the space to throw the chain either, and I’m wearing Kevlar. Can’t take out my knee, without getting someone’s attention. Somebody who does want to take off that mask. And I won’t be helping you out. 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.”

“Wha-What kind of a choice is that?!”

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

“Frank, stop! Oh, God.” Ka-lick.

“That’s the spirit, Red.”

“Please, just listen to me! Stop!"

"There he is. Coming out of his car. A perfect, clear shot."

"Damn it, Frank, don’t make me do this! Frank! Frank, you shoot, you’ll just keep the cycle going! More families destroyed! Just like yours! More innocents caught in the crossfire! Come on, Frank! You’ll tear society apart, from the inside out! The one you SWORE to protect!”

“Then pull the trigger.”

“God, forgive me.” Just as he sensed Castle's rifle rise to take aim, he lifted his own strapped pistol to do the same. BANG!

“You did everything you could, Matt.” The soothing words did not cease the endless storm and outbursts of fiery wind that assaulted his spiraling heart.

“Then why am I still feeling guilt, Father?”

“The guilt,” answered the priest in contemplation, “It could mean your soul’s call to action. The indication that...your work is not yet finished.”

“It’s brilliant, don’t you think? Who better to face a second-rate villain than a second-rate hero? And this baby was the perfect set up. Framing your partner and friend for murder. Classic. And as for Karen, pfff, maybe she was terminal, maybe she wasn’t. You’d think she’d at least go get a second opinion. And hiring Bullseye to lure you was icing on the cake. How about it, Murdock? Doesn’t all this drive you mad? Mad enough to finish me off? Me, the amazing Mysterio, in his grand finale!”

“Whoa, Double-D! STOP!” The wall-crawler’s outcry did not stop him from sending the blade into Bullseye. Right where Elektra was slain. After a short while, he then sent the final blow to the head, the same place Karen was struck. “MURDOCK!”

“Murdock is no more,” he growled back, “He is finished. Now there is only the BEAST!”

“It’s hopeless! Totally, completely hopeless! We’ve been abandoned, forgotten, and left to fend for ourselves!”

“Can it, you overstuffed snob-fest,” Sweetie Drops snapped at Blueblood, “The sooner we get our heads together, the better off-”

“Don’t you dare insult me, peasant! Or I will see to it you...”

“Come, Agent Sweetie Drops,” said Sir Fancy Pants plainly, taking the mare aside, “Best not waste our breath with this one. Attention, everypony!”

With all fearful, dreading, anxious, colorful eyes on him and the beige mare, the pale-blue Unicorn spoke further, “As you know, Princess Cadence and Counselor Daredevil have been captured after securing my and Agent Drops’ escape. If we’re to take this chance given to us, we best do so at once!”

“Why? What’s the point,” shouted a stallion from the crowd, “Princesses Celestia and Luna are statues, Princess Sparkle and the Elements have left us, our last Princess has been taken-”

“Our daughter would never abandon us!” The loud response from Nightlight sparked others to mutter in greater discomfort. “She and her friends love Equestria too much, to do something like that!”

“Yeah,” the first voice replied, “Then where are they, now? Why aren’t they here?”

“As Princess Cadence repeatedly told us, Lieutenant Lance Alot,” spoke Fancy Pants more forcefully, “The Elements are expected to return, hoping to bring with them reinforcements to overcome these encroachers.”

“Then why haven’t they just used the Elements,” Lance Alot retorted, “Use that Magic of Friendship, or True Love they keep waving around and stopping the likes of Tirek, Nightmare Moon and Chrysalis?”

“Things got more complicated, when we were suddenly attacked from all sides, all at once, without any time to fight back, you dimwit,” Sweetie Drops snapped, “Until now. Like you said, this isn’t the first time the majority of our leaders were outmatched, or got separated.”

“But even then,” the Pegasus Royal Guard persisted, “why bother? They come back, the untrained civilians they are, beat the bad guys, and save the day. Then they expect everything and everypony to go back to normal, like it never happened. That we weren't sitting helplessly in the belly of the beast, without hope of fending for ourselves. And I know I can speak for the Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts of how useless we’ve felt, when standing next to these Element bearers! And now a blind lawyer is giving us a run for our bits? The cruel irony! What's next!?”

“That may be how you feel, Lieutenant, and I respect your openness of it,” sharply spoke Fancy Pants, “But is that what really happens? If you are so useless and pathetic, then how is it Equestria remains calm and stable, long after the Elements are used, and the Princesses are restored? Why there has yet to be an uprising, or trouble amongst us, after making our grievances to them? It’s not merely the Princesses’ calm demeanor, poise and reasonable persuasion that keeps all things together, you know. If that be the case, then explain your rank, and extensive training.”

“And they don’t just expect us to move on like it never happened,” added Sweetie Drops, “And they don’t think they’re better than us, either. In fact, the reason they do all this is because they know how much we all matter. Not just Equestria, but all of us. Heck, even Rainbow Dash became a Wonderbolt, herself, because they were the ones who inspired her to be one. I live in Ponyville, and I’ve seen how they don’t stand high and mighty, and watch over us like Celestia’s so-distant cousin that he’s just as distant from all of us. And he doesn’t even have a real title.” This earned a huffed smirk from a grey Pegasus holding her Unicorn filly. “They live and walk among us. They laugh, play, cry, get angry and fight with us. And for us. And even after the threats and battles, they come back to their homes, and families, and friends, and keep doing what they’ve always done. Thinking about what they can do for us. Learning how to be better for one another, and us.”

“And now,” the Unicorn stallion stepped forward, “I daresay it’s our turn to give back to them. Give them a reason to return, by asking what we can do for them, for each other, and for Equestria."

"Right," jumped in Ditzy Do at last, "'Cause if Daredevil doesn't let his blindness stop him from doing the right thing, what's stopping us?"

"So," said Fancy Pants, "given I’m but a mere veteran in the force here, and Sweetie Drops is a former agent of a disbanded organization, what’s your plan of action, Lieutenant?”

“M-Me?”

“Well after all, you are the senior officer in this cellar. What will you have us do?”

As everypony turned to face the sole Guard in the entire troupe, he lowered his head in a defeated sigh, then said, “Me, and my big mouth. Alright, we’ll first need to find some way of getting into the Palace. I'm pretty sure that’s where all their leaders and major operations are kept.”

“I can get you there easily,” Agent Sweetie Drops answered, “I took those abandoned tunnels and cave systems underneath to get Pinkie Pie’s over-packed luggage.”

“And given how easily they ambushed and trapped Princess Cadence and you,” continued Lance Alot, “There’s a good chance they’re tracking us also. Even though you were teleported.”

“Agreed,” nodded Fancy Pants, “We know little or nothing about these Storm Creatures, so they may have a great sense of smell, and very well have caught our scents.”

“So,” nodded Lieutenant Alot, “We first need to find a secure location for the foals, sick and elderly. One as scentless as possible. Then second, the rest of us make our way to the tunnels, where we’ll definitely be tracked. That could draw any unwanted attention away from the others.”

“Um, yeah,” cringed Sweetie Drops, “Would you settle for the opposite of scentless?”

Boom. Boom. Boom. Boom. He was getting closer, and he knew it. With every pounding step he made, he could tell how much he was closing the distance. The smell of those pesky, timidly annoying ponies became stronger and stronger. Especially that one. Granted, the stallion was taken into Shadow’s custody with Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but that did not detract from knowing where he and the Alicorn had been. It only became a matter of time.

As he and his unit closed in on the clearly vacant estate, Sergeant Dis gave the signal to engage with a loud smash against the main doors. The exaggerated whimper he heard was all he needed to know where next to search. Sending groups of two Storm Creatures to secure the area, he beckoned two more to flank him, as he made his descent into the cellar.

The smell was even more invasive of those pathetic, little beasts of burden. They have most definitely come down here for shelter. However, upon raising his lance at the ready, he found the most unexpected sight before him.

“Please, please don’t hurt me,” it exclaimed and choked. Dis could not make out the gender because of the high-pitched voice from the size of that trembling figure in the shadows.

“I-I-I know where they went. A-And what they’re planning,” it continued in a more frightened state, “And I know exactly how they plan to cut off their scent from you! I should, you see, because I never wanted to set hoof in that horrid place, myself! So I thought it best to take my chances here, instead! Just please, please, please, promise not to harm me!”

“Tell me what you know, pesky pony,” said the Sergeant, leaning towards it with a sneering grin to terrify it further, “And I might consider your plea. If not, I’ll finish you off here and now, and take my chances in tracking them myself, anyway.”

“Pr-Princess Luna,” she gasped in recognition, “I-I thought you and Celestia were…”

“We were,” somberly answered the night’s Regent, “But much similar to Discord's own imprisonment, that’s exactly what happened to us.”

“I'm sorry. I failed,” Twilight spoke shakily, “I failed my friends, I failed Equestria, and now we’re all captured. I…” she broke into tears, “I’m no longer worthy to be the Princess of Friendship.”

“One misdeed may be enough for pillars long-built to collapse,” Luna said, as she offered a tender embrace, “But that doesn’t destroy the foundations, themselves. Both you and your friends are more than familiar with that, after Discord’s corruption and Chrysalis’ deceit. You will build again from this, and even higher than before. Much like how you all helped me, more than once.”

“But that's just it. I can’t even get through to Tempest the way Spike and I did with Starlight, the way my friends helped restore you and fight the Tantabus, the way I couldn’t even fight Discord’s tricks to bring back my friends without Celestia’s help, the way we gained back all the magic from Tirek, the way we had helped Cadence and Shining stop Chrysalis, and the way Sunburst helped restore the Crystal Heart, and Starlight and Discord rescuing us from Chrysalis! Because that’s just it! I’m completely helpless and alone, now! There are no friends here who can help me, and it’s all my fault!”

“First of all, again, as you aided me with the Tantabus, you must forgive yourself. You are more than willing to, and capable of learning from your faults, and move forward. And you shall. So, also your friends. Secondly, Tempest Shadow will require a friend’s help shortly, I’m sure. So be ready for when that time comes. Thirdly, as you said, we may all be captured, but your own, special sister of sorts is with you, as Celestia’s with me. Never doubt how much can be done, despite the circumstances. And fourth, there’s one friend also present with you, and I’m sure he’s in dire need of such now. Sadly, this state has made it difficult to reach out to others. Even my time here’s reaching an end. And from the few glimpses I’ve seen of his most recent nightmares, I may need you to reach out instead. Just remember to listen first, and listen closely. That’s always the first, and vital step in a pony’s most trying times.”

“But Luna, wait,” exclaimed the lavender Alicorn, sensing the faded departure, “What friend? Listen to what, exactly-?”

“You think you’re the only one who’s lost something vital to you?”

Still, eyes closed, yet suddenly awaken by that rumbling voice, Twilight flicked her ear just briefly before hearing the next one.

“What can anypony know about what I’ve lost? What I’ve been through? Especially somepony who’s blind?”

Twilight never had the chance to think of how to respond to Tempest, for she heard Daredevil do so, right away.

“I’ve had more than my fair share of losing. You could say I made a living out of it.” Deciding it best to simply listen, she remained absolutely still, as he shakily continued.

“I lost my sight. I lost my Dad. I never knew who my Mom was, ‘til I was practically on my deathbed. I lost my home and law firm by someone corrupt, whom I fought so long and hard to take down. Three times I…three times, I lost someone I might’ve loved, honored and cherished for the rest of my life. Four, if you count the asylum. I lost my mentor, in some ways my father figure. Murdered by one of my lost loves, after she came back from the grave. My best friend and I…we had a fallout twice, and I may never get to say ‘Goodbye,’ let alone ‘I’m sorry.’ And to top it all off, I was once possessed by a demon, losing my freewill and whatever innocence I had left.

But you don’t see me turning against my own kind, do you? Do you see me assaulting my own leaders, stealing from them and taking their lives, for the sake of some tyrant’s word? No. No, I keep fighting. And I will keep fighting with whatever faith and hope I have left, while I still breathe. So you might as well finish me off, here and now. Because I. Won’t. Stop. So far, by my reckoning, you’ve nearly taken a foal’s mother. TWICE. And you’ve allowed countless families to be put in chains, without cause. So I’d say the Princesses have been nothing but lenient to you. Because you’ve done nothing but show how you’re capable of betraying your brethren, for your own, personal, happy ending. So, from the blind one in the room, it’s time you opened your eyes, and witnessed the atrocities that you’ve committed. What others lost, because of you.”

Bzzzzzz-POW! Swiftly opening her eyelids, Twilight saw the gold-yellow stallion fall limp onto the cell floor, followed by a spark from Tempest’s horn, whose back was to her.

“Sheesh,” growled the short troll standing aside, “Thought he’d never stop.”

“Shut it, Grubber,” Tempest spoke in kind, “And get everything ready for when the Storm King comes. We'll be landing soon.”

“Ooh! You’re going to wear that specially-made helmet for that?”

“I’ve got his icon on my flank. That’s good enough for him. That helmet just gives me two short, pointed stubs, instead of one. Like I were some little, goat fledgling.”

“W-well, that’s the idea,” warily responded Grubber, “Because the Storm King always views the new recruits that way! No matter the rank, it's for those who have great potential to serve him! Just earning their horns, to show what they’re capable of!”

“I said shut it,” Tempest snapped at that sentence. “And make sure all three are awake, when we land.”

“Yes, Lieutenant!”

At that, the two departed from the airship’s brig. Upon hearing that final exchange, the Alicorn mare lifted her head to look more closely at Daredevil, and saw his barrel slowly rising for breath. In such relief, she let out a sharp breath of her own, and turned towards her sister-in-law, who also rose from her somber sleep. Seeing the shared look of empathy and grief past the bars, Twilight knew what they both had heard.

“There! Over there, right where I told you they were! Ah!”

"Quiet, you sniveling pest." Shoving the creature to the side, the Storm Sergeant advanced to the gleaming sight ahead. Keeping his lance raised and ready, he rounded the corner of the deep, dark tunnel and found the light’s source.

Of course, he would have suspected they were attempting the most atrocious place to hide their scent from him. By simply being enveloped by their own sewer smell. The arched bricks and paths opposite of the running water and grime were the best lit in this region. And now, he has found it. Their hiding place.

To his confusion, however, Dis only spotted two glowing bridges of magic. The golden glint they have shown forth was unlike what he expected, for there were no other ponies to shine on.

“You,” he snarled at the white pony captive, clasping his neck, “You tricked us, didn’t you?”

“N-N-No! I swear! This is exactly what they planned to do!”

“Then feel free to look around, yourself. Because your pony friends played you like a cowardly fool!”

“WAAAaaaaaaah!” Ku-splash! Seeing the frantic beast of burden splashing and wailing for his life, he took brief delight before seeing a grey blur coming directly at him. Smack!

“Oof!” After it grunted on collision, a voice shouted from the dark tunnel beyond.

“Miss Do!”

“Sorry, sorry,” it murmured back, as Dis recovered, “I meant to go after Blueblood.”

At that, before he could reach after the hovering Pegasus, another went at him with all speed and might. Poom! “Oh!”

“Everypony,” shouted the charged pony knight, “NOW!”

The command that echoed was instantly followed by an advance of several ponies from both sides of the canal, led by the Unicorn and Earth Pony from the plaza. He had no chance to command a response, as a swarm of Pegasi took to the putrid air, zipped around, and cut off his troops’ retreat. As they closed in more tightly, the Earth Ponies and Unicorns came forward with shovels, pitch forks and the occasional spear and shield. In panic, the Storm Creature’s under Sergeant Dis took leaps over the brink. A multitude of splashes united to make a resounding PLOSH against the arching walls and ceiling.

“Come back here, you cowards! They’re nothing but skittish, small horses! AAAaaaaah!” Enraged, the Sergeant took his lance and made his way to clash with the attackers. His weapon was deflected, however, by the same golden hue that made the bridges, as the pale-blue Unicorn came to the Pegasus stallion’s aid.

“You honestly believed we would allow our young and sick be kept in here?” At that question, the Unicorn moved forward, as his flying comrade cornered Dis from behind. Before he knew it, he felt himself shoved down towards the foul current below. Splash!

“Not quite so desperate for that, yet,” finished Fancy Pants, as he and Lieutenant Lance Alot shared a satisfied smirk.

“Oh,” they heard a gasp, “I can’t believe you let me fall into that! I’ll have to bathe ten times a day, for a week!”

“You know, Blueblood,” warmly spoke Ditzy Do, “I kind of thought watching you thrown in was good enough for me. But I think I’m starting to lose my grip.”

“No, no! Please! I’d rather you sat on me!”

“Your wish is my command, sweetie.” Boom. Seeing the sprawled Unicorn across the way, they watched him look up to the descending mare.

“Oof! Muffins, wha-No! No! NOOOOO!” Plop. “Oh, my spleen.”

“Told you he was the perfect decoy,” she smirked to an approaching Sweetie Drops.

"I just hope Mrs. Velvet and Mr. Nightlight don't have many problems with the others in those caves," said Sweetie Drops, "But right now, I think we need to work out a way to get at those beasts in the palace."

It was not as bad as anticipated. In fact, much like with Luna, this felt even more alleviating. Although, it was painful to know that sharing some of the burden had put a pulsating shock that froze those listening. But alongside that turmoil, there came relief, because more than one was now willing to take in as much as they could, for his sake.

“It’s like you said,” he heard the Alicorn’s voice beside him, along with the rattling, grating chains, “Not to break the law whenever we want, but to look past it. Guess I should’ve taken that to heart sooner, whether in Equestria or not. And that’s exactly what Pinkie Pie-”

“Hey!” The shout from below his sternum came with the tug of the collar above it. “No more talking, until the Storm King says so! And you got to meet him, first!”

“Not that one, Grubber,” the gritted command came from Shadow’s voice, “Take him to the nearest dungeon for the King to meet later. He has a more important meeting with the Princesses.”

“You sure you still don’t want your helmet-?”

“Throw that in with him, for all I care!” The sharp venom of detest matched the same unease he detected from her in the vessel. “I don’t even want to hold it to the side, and complete my armor! In fact, take both of them back to the airship’s brig.! Away from any form of land! He only has to be awake for when we summon him.”

“You got it, Lieutenant,” Grubber shouted back, “Come on, let's go. You blind freak-show.”

“No, wait!”

“Thanks for the talk, you two,” he whispered at Twilight’s protest, as he was pulled back, “I’ll catch up.”

The hitched breath and tension from the younger mare still remained, but reduced slightly at the brush from Cadence. Taking that good sign, the stallion then took more urgent matters into consideration, such as his means of escape and how best to offer his help. The former was the less difficult of the two. Despite his chest and head growing more painful from the blasts, smothering and shocks taking their toll, he used his unsteady form to his advantage. Having his legs shackled also aided the pretense that the small troll could do this simple task all by himself. That the stallion was much weaker, and far more defenseless than the captured Alicorns.

“Come on, you can do it,” the little Creature mocked, “Just a few more steps.” Having made it past the ramp and into the hull, he knew they were completely out of sight. Taking the first chance he had, he leapt forward and wrapped his front chains around Grubber’s neck from behind. Barely letting out a small chortle, the little Storm Creature fell limp into Daredevil’s grasp within seconds. Checking his pulse, he placed the unconscious troll gently onto the wooden floor without a sound. Save one. Plop-bob-blblblblblblb.

Nearly rolling out onto the walkway, Daredevil caught hold of the helmet with his straining hind hoof. In relief, he sensed no response from the guards outside. Sliding it back towards him, he then took hold of the keys from Grubber’s belt with his teeth. He recognized the shape and size to match the shackles’ locks, and picked it out as gently as he could, should he drop them from his practicing grip. Wielding his staff was one thing, but multiple items on a key chain that required some digit dexterity was another. Thankfully, his heightened equilibrium, muscle and limb placement, enabled him to adjust thoroughly.

But not before he detected the extraordinary shift of energy throughout the atmosphere. Sudden changes in temperature, then back, and forth, then back again. Any ordinary blind person could guess something was wrong with the sun. Realizing the Storm King had attained what he wanted, the stallion burst out of his unlocked irons with a clang. The two Storm Creatures at the platform turned their heads in hearing him, and went in to investigate. Whish! Clingalingalingaling-pop!

Sending the chains their way, Daredevil wrapped one at the head, and the other was smacked from the opposite end. Pulling the first one down to the floor knocking him senseless, he flipped back to send a resounding buck onto the second, dazing him further. Without much time left, he clutched at his barrel and departed from the three lying lackeys. Limply, Daredevil made his way to the Lieutenant’s cabin, where he knew his staff was kept. Just then, from the distance, he could pick up the voices of the other mares, along with a male feline creature, as they were hauling a cart of armed beings in a massive cake.

But once he firmly grasped his weapon, he picked up on another disturbance of energy behind him. Sharply, he spun with his staff split at the ready. Poof!

“Whoa-whoa-whoa! Easy there, partner,” came Starlight’s voice, “Just me. Got your message, and kept a close eye on things while Shining got everything ready.”

“He’s here?”

“No, but Captain Sentry has his best squad near the main entrance, waiting for my signal.”

“Good, then send it now, and teleport us to the throne room. Cadence and Twilight just lost their power, and Twilight’s friends are about to make their way inside.”

“You sure about that? ‘Cause you don’t exactly look one hundred percent, right now. More light sixty-five, or fifty.”

“I’ll manage.”

“Bu-”

“No time to argue! Do it now!”

“Okay! Okay!” Pling!

There was very little time to act. Sensing Spike, Dash, Rarity and the others outside, with several other creatures bursting out of the cake in attack, he picked up on Twilight and Cadence’s struggle to aid Tempest from the Storm King’s betrayal. The air pressure grew drastically dense, as the winds swirled and spun more, and more wildly up into the accumulating storm clouds above. As the King raised his bursting staff over the three ponies before him, Daredevil sent his own non-chuck to wrap around the wielding wrist.

“Starlight,” shouted Twilight. POOOM!

“Wheeeeeee!” A great blast from a cannon busted the doors wide open, as five ponies and a young Dragon flew straight towards the Storm King. POW!

“Best. Blast. EVERRRRR!”

“Pinkie Pie! Applejack! Fluttershy!” Sensing how everyone’s attention has shifted, the stallion took this chance to buy them some more time. Releasing the cable wire, he reverted to batons, and dove straight at the rising Storm King.

Left. Right. Uppercut. Cross strike. He maintained his rigid offensive to slightly throw off his opponent. Each blow he sent was met by the vibrating staff of colossal magic, making his feeble attacks even more so. But he powered through, knowing that Starlight was behind him and waiting for a clear shot. Sliding down, he swung his hind leg for a round kick against the legs, only to be met by a pounding rod full of energy. Pom!

He growled in pain, as he felt a massive hand grasp his throat. Dangling and swinging his legs, clutching against the vice, he found himself fighting for breath. Pew! Psssssh.

A blast from the Unicorn mare barely singed the King's fur. After that, the hoarse voice and foul breath before him was all he could sense.

“Anyone who doesn’t bow down to their King…will fall down.” Suddenly he felt weightless, as he was thrown sharply outside and over the balcony. Feeling a cracking sensation on his leg, chest and cranium, he slipped into unconsciousness while still airborne.

There was no other way to say it. It all happened so fast. First was getting to Twilight and Cadence with help from Capper, Captain Celaeno and Princess Skystar. Next was finding Starlight and Daredevil with them, the former had just set off a magical beacon out over the balcony. Then came the efforts the latter made in distracting the Storm King for them, while showing clear signs of injury and fatigue. Considering what he went through during their absence, stunned would not be enough to describe everypony’s response.

That was when things suddenly took a drastic turn for the worse. Overpowered, the blind pony was held in a chokehold, then thrown out of the mountainous castle. It was one thing to witness one pony knocked over the edge of a volcano by her friend, even though that pony tried to do something terrible. But it was completely different to watch a good friend thrown by a massive, cruel, unkind beast without a thought.

Even Rainbow’s impulsive dive to rescue Daredevil was not enough to shake her out of it. She was so deeply affected by that act that it was only after Twilight wrestled with the King for the scepter, and Tempest sacrificing herself that she realized where she had been going all that time.

After bringing the stallion back up to them, Rainbow Dash saw Fluttershy instinctively tend to him, eyes blankly staring ahead. While Twilight used the scepter to restore the Alicorns their magic, and brought Celestia, Luna and Tempest back from stone, the Pegasus checked the Earth Pony’s faint pulse. She could not help but shudder at the cracks that somehow made their way to his hind hoof, and left temple of his unmasked face.

Everypony went to the immediate hospital where Twilight teleported him, and were escorted by the Crystal-Equestrian soldiers who came with Starlight and overran the rest of the Storm Creatures. Spike and Starlight then told them about the message Daredevil had him send to her, which puzzled and bewildered many present. Alongside the militant escorts were other ponies who said they were rescued by Cadence and Daredevil from a prison pen, with Fluttershy recognizing Bon Bon in the group. She heard mention of Twilight’s parents watching over the foals, sick and elderly in the hidden caves under Canterlot, but she kept her focus on the injured pony who was taken for further study and care. After seeing the rest of Pinkie’s ninja costume taken off, more cracks were seen at his chest and base of the neck.

She was replaying that entire scenario through her mind, struggling to cope. She might have done so repeatedly, until she felt the gentle touch of hooves on her own, along with her back and shoulders.

“It’ll be okay, Fluttershy,” softly offered the lavender mare, “The doctors say he’s been keeping stable.”

“Yeah, I mean come on,” scoffed the blue Pegasus, “He got hit by one of those stone-changing balls, and still got back into the ring! If that isn’t tough as nails, then I’m not awesome!”

“We might not know how he done got through that,” Applejack joined, “But we reckon that there be called a blessing.”

“Indeed,” Rarity added, “Such dreadful things to befall him were not to be taken lightly.”

“I just hope he can get better soon,” said Spike, after watching the pink Earth Pony tightly hold the removed costume.

“I still didn’t get to give him that party yet,” she murmured, her pink mane flat and drooping, “Now he’ll have to wait even longer, to get better first.”

“Princesses? Everypony?” Hearing the summons from down the hall, they all rose from their seats, and stepped forward to meet the physician before them.

“What can you tell us, Doctor Flightheart,” Luna inquired.

“Incredible, to say the least,” huffed Flightheart with a tired smirk, “With what we’ve found, and what the poor pony’s been through, I’d say it was quite something.”

“What do you mean by that, Doctor,” asked Celestia.

“Well, considering where he came from, it’s no wonder how durable his hide and bone structure is. But at the same time, so easily brittle, should he sustain the wrong amount of pressure. And he had.”

“Can you elaborate for us, please,” said Cadence, who shared the same concern and confusion with the rest.

“You mean…you don’t know?”

“Know what,” Twilight spoke, frantically dreading the explanation that had yet to come.

“Well, I suppose that makes sense,” huffed the bright red Pegasus again, rubbing his mane with a hoof, “I mean, we never suspected it either, until we looked more closely at his dilated pupils. Very rough and unpolished. Probably due to his disability. But the texture’s still present.”

“Huh? What do you mean? What texture?” Now with Pinkie's own questions, Fluttershy was even more troubled by what this entailed.

“When I went to the Equestria Games in the Empire, I was stunned to see how the ponies there had such astonishing eyes. They reflected the light like precious stones. So astonishing, I wanted to find out why that was. And I did.”

“What’re you saying, Doc,” Rainbow wavered in suspense, while hovering closer to Flightheart. "Just give it to us straight."

"Yes, quite," stiffly said the fanning Rarity, "Simply get to the point, please."

“What I’m saying is, the reason he withstood a stone-transforming spell unlike the Princesses, but what also explains his injuries, is because he’s basically made of stone. Crystal Empire stone, to be specific.”

“Hold up an apple-buckin’ second,” shouted Applejack, in gasped shock like all the others, “You’re tellin’ us Daredevil’s a…a...?”

“A Crystal Pony. Yes.”

... to be concluded.

The Tempest We Know ~ Part III ~

“I don’t understand,” said Starlight, “Why’s everypony so shocked to hear about this? I mean, sure. I didn’t know about this either. But this seems a little too…hysterical.”

“I agree,” Tempest spoke also, as attention shifted towards her, “Um, w-what’s the big deal?”

“A Crystal Pony is unlike any creature,” Cadence responded, “It’s their love for one another that keeps the Empire safe and secure. That same love is spread through the Crystal Heart, reaching out everyone across the entire world.”

“And it’s the source of their solidified nature,” added Twilight, “It’s their bond with the Crystal Heart that has developed their inner magic to become like crystals.”

“But where does the whole, brittle thing fit into all this,” asked Starlight, to which Twilight answered.

“Like any crystal’s integrity, even the densest and strongest, applying the right amount of force and pressure weakens a Crystal Pony’s hide. Even their skeletal structure. Such as being struck by an electric pulse of magic, an explosion, a staff full of Alicorn magic, and falling thirty-two trots per second, per second! Imagine how much damage he wouldn’t have sustained, if we had known this!”

“Man,” breathed Rainbow Dash, “Guess he is kind of, sort of made of glass.”

“That may be the case,” said Cadence, “But even still, a Crystal Pony’s strength and tenacity can rival even the greatest of Earth Ponies.”

“Indeed,” said Luna, “Which was why Celestia and I sought to dethrone Sombra as quickly as possible. Had he twisted their prowess with the Crystal Heart to their fullest…”

“But more important, right now,” Applejack interjected, “is why a Crystal Pony done told us he’s from Manehatten?”

“I say that’s a fair point,” joined Rarity, “Even if he moved to Manehatten after the Crystal Empire’s return, that still leaves very little time for him to study Equestrian law after a thousand years, briefly establish himself there, and then move back to start over.”

“And even if that did happen,” said Pinkie, “which most likely probably didn’t, like Rarity said, wouldn’t we have heard of a pony like that in Manehatten? You know, somepony that’s very good at lawyering stuff, and also goes out at night fighting baddies with his blind-pony walking stick, in one of the greatest cities in all of Equestria!”

“Despite its outward appearance of glamor, structure and culture,” said Celestia, “its criminal underworld emerges to cause some harm and destruction every decade or so. Such events that occurred had sent many foals to orphanages and foster homes, much similar Daredevil’s situation that Cadence had shared. But even then, that doesn’t align with the Empire's reappearance.”

“So that sure don’t explain why he’s been lying to us about not bein’ a Crystal Pony none.”

“That, Applejack,” answered Luna, “is because he’s unaware of that, himself.”

“But how is that possible,” Rarity asked.

“Yeah,” said Rainbow, “How can somepony not know what kind of a pony he is?”

“With his permission, granted to me when I visited his current dream, I will answer as many questions as possible from my interactions with him. He has taken this opportunity to share all that he can with you, as promised.”

The Tempest We Know

~ Part III ~

“Was it worth it,” asked the old man.

“What?”

“Loving them.”

“You taught me to cut all my ties to humanity. All that we’ve had were few, fleeting moments. Too far in between the chaos, and arguing, and violence. Just scarce, precious moments. Nothing more.”

“Hey,” laughed his roommate, “we’re going to be the best in New York of the lawyer profession! EL GRrrrrANDEeeee…what’s lawyers in Spanish?”

“Lawyers? Uh, abogados.”

“EL GRrrANDE AVOCADOS!”

He let out his own outburst. “HA-ha-ha! That’s not Spanish, it’s a fruit!”

“Fruit! That’s a vegetable, at best! Ha-heh. Ooooh boy, I’m so wasted. Look, my point is we’re going to have big offices, fancy suits, and the best stuff the world can buy!”

“Aw, come on. Is that all you really care about? The money, power, fame and fortune?”

“NO! No. Truth, justice, champion of the oppressed! All that good stuff! Maybe a couple bucks?”

“Ha-ha-ha.”

“Look, let me get to my point here. You listen, okay. I know you’re really good at it. You and me, we’re going to be best, dang avocados the world’s ever seen!”

“Best, dang avocados.”

“Okay, it’s ready!” Upon Foggy’s announcement, he moved up to touch the brass plaque, feeling the imprinted letters coming off the brick wall.

“To Nelson & Murdock,” cheered Karen, as she raised her glass.

“Nelson & Murdock,” the two friends responded with their own.

“Avocados at Law,” he added, much to Foggy’s mirth.

“Yeah, yeah, okay,” cheerfully moaned Karen, “Look, I may not get your inside joke, but I think you guys’ll appreciate what I got you.”

“Chips and guacamole?” His friend’s surprise could be easily detected, as much as the scent of food from a mile away.

“Also got the avocado pits polished from a friend of mine. One each.”

“Ho-ho,” cheered Foggy even further, “Karen, you’re the best!”

“To Karen,” he said, raising his glass once more, “Best friend an avocado could ask for!”

“It’s about time someone decided to loosen up,” announced another woman, who wore dangling jewelry, “Hope you enjoy yourself, hot stuff.”

“Thanks for having us, Heather.”

“The pleasure’s all mine, believe me,” she said playfully. “Have fun!”

“I guess congrats are in order,” he turned back to his old partner, “Mister District Attorney.”

“Hey, never would’ve made it this far without you and Karen. I’m actually glad you got to make it to the victory reception. Even though you’re really late. Like, next day.”

“Better late than never.”

“You got that right, buddy! I’m glad I still get to call you that too.”

“Feelings mutual.” It was then he sensed a young figure rolling his way from down the hall.

"Hey, Murdock?"

"Hey, Aaron. How do you feel?"

"Angry."

"At whom?"

"Everyone."

"That money's really going to help your parents. But for you, from now on things will get harder. You're only on mile one of this marathon, right? Everyone's going to tell you how you're supposed to feel. To stay positive, not feel sorry for yourself, or not to get angry. But that all just goes right past the ear canal."

"I just want my life back," choked the young man in the wheelchair.

"They can't give you that. Hopefully you'll walk again. But maybe you won't. But your ability to get through this is a hundred times more powerful than slapping a smile and pretending everything's fine. No one can give you your life back, Aaron. You have to take it back. Find the best way to fight through this, and overcome it. Okay?"

But then the cold, dark air seeped into his mouth and nostrils, as he stood over the building’s ledge beside the first woman in his life. “I know there’s good in you. Not because I felt it, but from what you’ve done.”

“The Kingpin will have my head for this,” that Greek accent huffed, the frozen breath brushing against his face. “There’s no way out of it, Matthew.”

“There’s always a way, Elektra. The right way.”

“You mean your way? No killing, no one dies?”

“Showing compassion for everyone is something greater than even I can imagine, much less call my own. And there are times I don’t want to hold my punches. You should know that better than anyone. You’ve been the one that gets me. And we can overcome the evil this way. Together. You showed that when you held back from killing Foggy. Deciding not to follow Fisk’s orders.”

“You keep insisting it’s never too late to turn from this. To give up these ways taught to me since a small child.”

“Because it isn’t. I was taught the same way, remember? By the same man. We can stop this, now.”

"And what about Stick? You still want to go after him after the way he abandoned you? When you weren't the weapon he wanted?"

"He gave me a purpose, and a reason to keep going. It doesn't matter what he did to me, because I am going to save him. We are."

The bitter frost continued to bite his face, as he took a solitary bench in the prison mess hall. All he could focus on was determining who sought to kill his best friend this time.

“This seat taken,” asked a gruff, militant voice, “Because I get the feeling nobody here wants to take a chance with a blind guy, even if the rumors aren’t true. Am I right, altar boy?”

“Thanks, Frank. For having my back.”

“Got nothing but respect for somebody sticking to his own way of doing things. No matter how tough it’s been to keep it up. But I bet you’ve gotten pretty tired, haven’t you Red.”

“Yeah, I have.” Finding his rival and ally leaning towards him from the opposite side, he listened.

“I remember the night I got back from deployment. Took my wife to bed, and said goodnight to my boy. Then my little girl comes up asking me to read her favorite book, ‘One Batch, Two Batch.’ She was getting too big for it, but she didn’t care. She wanted it. Begged me to read it to her. I said no. ‘Daddy’s tired, see. I’ll read it tomorrow night, I promise.’ Only there wasn’t a tomorrow night.”

The blistering winter still assaulted his senses. But he could also take comfort from the tearful embrace they shared. It never mattered how far they had fallen or drifted apart, or what they had done to cause all this to cascade down onto them. From the start, he knew he would not last another second without her presence. Down on their knees, after all they had been through, he and Karen had found forgiveness and rebirth. Total bliss that lifted all their weighing sorrows and guilt. There were no words for this profound moment. Except, perhaps, heavenly.

Then, as her casket was being lowered along with the snowfall, he felt Foggy’s hand gently touch his shoulder.

“I…I just wish there’s something...something I can say or do. Especially after everything.”

“Just being here’s more than enough, Foggy. Thanks.”

“So...you’re going to be okay?”

“Karen was a great friend to us both. We’ll always love her, and she’ll be with us in spirit. The baby was named after her, even. Her adopted parents will let Uncle Matt come to visit her, now and then. And if you want, we can use what Karen left us from her rehab radio program to bring back Nelson & Murdock.”

“Are you kidding? After a term as the D.A. that’d be great. And your Mom?”

“We’re starting to patch things up. Still pretty rough, but...we’ll get there eventually. Good to know she’s still around, I guess. But I also regained something meaningful in all of this chaos and violence.”

“And what’s that?”

“Faith, hope, and love.” Then he turned towards the cackling codger, who still held onto the stolen infant. “If you did all of this just to drive me insane and lose myself, then you’re out of luck Beck. Fisk already beat you to that punch, and in more ways than one. You? You’re not even second-rate. Just a sickly demented man looking for that perfect send-off. Even all your material’s borrowed from different sources. Not a single, original idea. As for me and my house, I’ve found someone much more powerful. A better reason to hang on. And I consider myself blessed to not see, and believe.”

Tap-tap-tap. After that came a creak from the opening door.

“Um, hello? Excuse me, is this Nelson & Murdock?”

“Yes. I’m Matt Murdock. And beside me is Franklin Nelson. How can we help, Miss…?”

“Donovan. Milla Donovan. And all I want to say to Mister Murdock is…thank you. Thanks for saving me this morning from that speeding truck.”

After a paused moment to reflect and meditate before his crucified Savior, he then answered. “Yes, Stick. Yes, it was worth it.”

“Mattie,” he chuckled back, “you’re the toughest son of a she-dog I know.” After heaving a sigh of serenity, the old man announced, “Let’s go home.”

While everypony was waiting for Luna to start, they were getting a bit tense themselves. First there was Twilight, who was fidgeting and looking at his long, red staff, then some strange chain full of beads. Exactly fifty-nine she counted. Apparently Daredevil brought with him a small sack of personal belongings, that bead-chain being one of them. What was also strange about it was the two minted icons that extended from the circle of beads, with five in between. But there was also a single medallion on a chain also, along with a pair of golden bands with one having a diamond on top. The latter two made Cadence given them a sad look. And the last item in the sack made Applejack curious, because she wondered why a Crystal Pony would carry around a polished pit of an avocado. When Pinkie Pie decided to pick that up and toss it around to keep her mind from getting all “goopy-droopy,” AJ noticed how uneasy, and even quieter Fluttershy has been, and took a seat close by her.

Starlight sat next to her former teacher with worry, while Tempest – or Fizzlepop, whatever – just sat in a corner, feeling out of place. Until Spike hopped out of his seat near Twilight to sit against the wall with her. Celestia seemed to be helping Luna, when she asked for a spell to help share visions of ponies’ dreams during the daytime. Everything just seemed too quiet for everypony’s good, and it was driving her insane.

“Hey, Pinks. I’m open.” Seeing the ecstatic mare look at her hovering friend, she smiled as she tossed the pit Rainbow’s way. Before she could explode with all that anxiety in the throne room, Rainbow Dash hoped playing catch with Pinkie Pie might keep her mind off it. No good biting everypony’s head off, when they’re already down on the dumps. Also, Pinkie’s mane got back some more of its fluff when they started.

“We’re ready.” At the lunar Regent's voice, all eyes shifted, one hundred percent, towards her. As soon as Celestia helped her sister in projecting nighttime visions, all were stunned by how everything was experienced through four of their five senses.

“Whoa,” exclaimed AJ, “This sure is different.”

“Goodness,” Rarity gasped, covering her snout, “Is that salty moisture from sweat?”

“We’re,” uttered Rainbow Dash, hearing the pounding noises of punching bags, “We’re in a training gym.”

“Wow-ee,” said Pinkie Pie, bouncing to make shockwaves brush over everything in their path, “This sure is some nifty way to see things in your head!”

“Unbelievable,” breathed Twilight, with gleeful observance, “Electric currents and heat signatures! He can distinguish air movements also?”

“And heartbeats,” said Starlight, but more in statement than from watching. Sure enough, they all could pick up the many pulses that vibrated to give the shape and position of the creatures around them. They were throwing punches at bags or each other, jumping rope, stretching or lifting weights. Their forms were perfectly displayed in every detail, inside and out. And even the environments outside the four walls could be made totally clear.

“Hey, Twilight,” asked Spike, “Don’t those things look like what you were, when we were dealing with Sunset and those Sirens?”

“He’s not even from this world,” Twilight gasped in realization, “He wasn’t even a pony to-”

“It’s not how you hit the floor, Matt,” said a low, male voice startling them, “It’s how you get back up.”

“Allow me to introduce you to Jonathan Murdock,” Luna stated, “Otherwise known as Battlin’ Jack.”

“Alright, make another sweep in the southeast district. Make sure there’s none on the loose.”

“Yes, sir.” As he watched the last unit make haste, the orange Pegasus took a deep breath to further collect his thoughts. He wanted to be absolutely sure the streets of Canterlot have been cleared of any threats.

“Captain Sentry.”

“Lieutenant Alot,” he answered the raised salute with his own, “Glad to see you’re in one piece also.”

“Yeah, guess nopony envies that Storm King’s fate.”

“Tell me about it. How’s your commander?”

“Still recovering, sir. But he’ll get back up on his hooves, in no time.”

“Studded Sheen is the toughest Earth Pony in the Guard,” Flash reminisced, “Won’t go down without any kind of fight. So, what have you got for me?”

“So far, nothing,” answered Lance, “My squad’s been on the lookout for anything suspicious, but still no sign of them. Nowhere near the outskirts of Canterlot.”

“What about the pipelines? Any signs from the depository areas?”

“None, sir. Not even a print. Nothing.”

“That could only mean one thing, Lieutenant.”

“I thought so, too.”

Taking off to the next secured location, the two Pegasi landed directly over an opened studhole near the palace, and took a peak down into it. Unlike the many Storm Creatures that were captured or pursued, there was one particular group still unaccounted for. And now, with that scent of water and grime underneath, all the Equestrian and Crystal Guards could do was sit and wait for them to emerge.

Opening those heavy lids would spoil that calm and comforting peace of mind. And shifting those stiff and injured limbs could make things even more unpleasant. But the urge to awake and take in the surroundings was almost instinctual, as he placed a hoof to his wrapped ribcage, and shifted his bandaged leg in a sling. If only the extent of his wounds were cosmetic, or too much interior damage.

“Whoa-whoa, there,” said a female voice, as he grunted to sit up, “The nurse will help with that. So just take it easy, okay?”

Exerting a heavy breath, Daredevil faced directly towards the ceiling, as he picked up twin heartbeats beside him. One of which was youthfully rapid in anxiety, and emanated from the seat against the wall.

“Is he going to be okay, Mom?”

“I think so, Dinky. But let’s just wait and find out what the doctor says.”

“Can I come closer?”

“Alright, just not too close.”

He felt the nimble clipity-clips on the tile floor come close, as a faint brush or air touched his furry ear and cheek.

“Hi,” said the small filly.

“Hi, there,” he chuckled, tilting his head towards the voice, “That sounds like a brave, big girl coming over.”

“That’s what Mom told me,” Dinky smiled her response, “when we had to hide in those dark, crystal caves under the castle. It was very hard to see anything, but I knew you weren’t scared when you can’t see anything.”

“Well, it’s not all that bad, when I’ve got my other senses to help. So, is this the palace?”

“The medical bay inside the castle, yeah,” Ditzy answered. “Weird. I thought you’d ask where you are.”

“Have a good idea of the schematics,” he said, “I think the Princesses and their friends are in the throne room now.”

“Wow,” exclaimed Dinky. “That’s pretty cool you can do that.” Click-creak.

“Good morning, Mister Daredevil,” came soft male voice, “I’m Nurse Upbeat, and I’ll be here to check up on you today.”

“Thanks, Nurse.” The stallion Earth Pony approached his lying form, as Miss Do and her daughter stepped back for him.

“I hope you slept well. Always needed for a full recovery.”

“Very well, thanks.” His right foreleg was raised, as Upbeat checked his ticking watch.

“Princess Luna always keeps our patients’ dreams as peaceful as can be. Sure, that’s her job for everypony, but she focuses on those in need of care more especially. A very fortunate blessing, I think. Any symptoms, or pain?”

“No. Just stiff.” After feeling the cold plate of the stethoscope leave his chest, the Nurse’s hooves reached behind him, and gently lifted his back against a standing pillow on the headrest.

“Well that’s a very good sign. Princess Cadence told us about how to prep a Crystal Pony for total healing by the Crystal Heart. Especially if they need to travel back to the Empire.”

“I’m sorry?” “A Crystal Pony?”

“Yes, Miss Do,” Upbeat answered the Pegasus, “Our friend here suffered from severe blunt force trauma and great amounts of pressure on his crystal hide and bones. But when fully healed, all you’ll see are the white, cracked fault lines on the surface. Where the damaged coat is totally intact again.”

Wondering about those implications, as well as the fact that no one ever mentioned older scars when coming here, Daredevil heard the nurse bid his well-wishes to them and leave the room.

“Mommy, I got to go.”

“Um, sorry Nurse,” stuttered Ditzy, “But, um, you mind taking Dinky here for a sec? I need to talk to Counselor Daredevil here about something…personal.”

“Well, I have a few more minutes before making my rounds again. Sure.”

“Thank you.” At the click of the shutting door, he sensed a release of tension, along with a heavy sigh from the mare. “After we heard about what happened, Dinky and I couldn’t stop worrying, and couldn’t help but wonder how scared she would’ve been without somepony to be there for her. Even if I would’ve come back from being a statue. And then how much you went through, even after saving me from that. How much I couldn’t thank you enough, and then there was something…else…t-that I wanted to say.”

“Does it concern that incident in the cellar?” The sudden stiffness in her tendons was enough.

“Um, yeah.”

“And as your acting counselor, you’re wondering what else can be done about…him?”

“I-I…I, uh…I know you’ve already been through so, so much for me and Dinky and everypony, and I never should’ve come here just to ask something else from you-”

“I’ll do what I can,” he evenly said with a smirk, “given my current position, of course.”

“Oh, I-wha-really?” A sharp burst of air shot from her wings, so joyously spread out.

“I was a guidance counselor for a short while, after my firm was discredited. Need something to keep from getting restless. So yes, I’d like to help, Miss Do. And no charge.”

“Th-Thank you! Really, I can’t say that enough!” As she took off, she nearly bumped over the I.V. that was beside him, had he not anticipated such.

“Just give me the basics, for now.”

“O-Oh, right. Sorry.” She then went to the floor with a thump, as he used his free hoof to reset the stand. “Um, well it’s like this. It pretty much started when I lived in Canterlot, and started seeing somepony. We kept it secret like he asked, and I thought it was kind of sweet that he was having a special, secret rendezvous-thing with me away from the spotlight, flashing cameras and noisy press, because of his elite status. But then I got worried that I wouldn’t even get to see his folks or anypony else he knew, except for when we were in different places at the same party, even at the Gala. Then when we got engaged, I told him to talk to his parents about it. But after that, he kept the wedding going, making me think things were going to be fine. Only during and after the wedding, I never saw or heard anything from them, so I went and paid them a visit, and they never even knew my name. So I told him, ‘Either you tell them, or I leave.” He never said or did anything different, so I got the annulment papers, and moved to Ponyville, and lived with my step-sister and her daughter, Sparkler, and then had Dinky. Got a job as a mailmare, and never set hoof in Canterlot since. I thought I could take Dinky to the Friendship Festival, hoping I was ready to finally move on, but then saw him again during the whole attack.”

Unbeknownst to her, on the other side of the door, there stood a stallion listening.

“He sounds like a real piece of work.”

“Yes, Stick. Yes, it was worth it.” Just hearing that made her want to squeeze that pit she held even more tightlier than ever before.

“Mattie, you’re the toughest son of a she-dog I know.” The closest thing to a proud compliment from his mentor, despite its censored vulgarity, made her even more teary-eyed. “Let’s go home.”

At that, the entire chamber returned to normal. Her left ear flicked back, triggered not by her Pinkie Sense, but the rushed steps of her Pegasus friend, followed stiffly by those of Fizzlepop Berrytwist.

“Sheesh,” hoarsely reiterated a choked Rainbow Dash, “That guy’s got some real baggage, or what?”

“Even though we heard most of those things from him,” shakily said Twilight, as Cadence wrapped a wing around her, “that didn’t prepare me in the slightest, Luna. Just watching it all unfold, while he explained it to you was even more taxing.”

PFFFFfft! The exuberant blow from Rarity’s soaked handkerchief was already common occurrence.

“That puts it…sniffle…rather mildly, dear.”

“I’ll say,” said Pinkie, “Having to go through all that stuff about losing his dad to a bunch of meanies, never meeting his mom – or, not really knowing he met his mom at the orphanage – and fighting other meanies, and getting beaten pretty badly and nasty by them, and then having those same meanies make everyone else start hating him, while also trying to keep his whole secret identity thing a secret-” gasping for breath, she rattled on, “having a few really big fights with his besties from that, and then having one besty make some pretty bad mistakes, and the other kept getting hurt or made look bad just because they knew him, and then having to deal with one-two-THREE special somepo-somebodies not living anymore, the first one coming back to ‘egk’ his teacher-” gasp, “and a fourth one, who he wanted to marry, get locked up for being made all-crazy and loopy, all done by the same meanies, tried getting revenge after not trying to for so long to go against his teacher’s way of doing things, but when he finally did get some, he wasn’t even himself anymore, that really makes the whole accident that made him blind and get very, super-sensitive senses the tip of the iceberg. Huh, so that’s what he meant by that. Also explains why Fluttershy went out on her own without telling anypony. Be right back!” Pew!

“I’m just glad Starlight took Spike out, before things got worse,” the lavender Alicorn muttered, recalling how her Dragon assistant held back tears and shook from Electra’s sacrifice and murder.

Pinkie remembered how she and the others struggled to keep an objective hold of themselves then, and after with Heather Glen and her dad. It was a struggle for Twilight to focus, using any opportunity given to take notes of Daredevil's background information on his world, as well as his religion. And Applejack spent most of the time keeping her hat over her face, with her watered eyes covered. That was the worst she had ever seen AJ cry on the inside, ever. She noticed also how they all shared a refreshing gasp of hope at Carin Page’s return from her troubled, and scary life choices, along with Daredevil’s own. How he found hope and faith to continue loving as best he could after losing her to both Bullseye and that insane, mean and terrible Mysterio guy just made Rarity and Rainbow Dash shed happy tears, instead of sadder ones.

And that Kingpin Fisk made the Storm King, Chrysalis, Sombra, Discord, Nightmare Moon, and even Tirek look like pansies. But that was only one baddy out of a whole lot. And Stick was a strange mix of Starswirl’s high-horse attitude, and her own Dad’s stiff, wooden way of acting, and Gilda’s aggressively mean side. That last one was kind of like Electra too, only with a thirsty-Chrysalisy touch to her. Frank Castle was definitely frank about how he wanted to run his broken-down castle of a brain, but very dependable.

Stopping to see a sobbing mare at the nearest balcony, the pink Earth Pony gently made her way over to the railing, making sure she did not scare her.

“Hey, Fluttershy,” she softly stated, placing a hoof onto her shaking back, “I know you've been having a waaaay worse time in there than anypony. Even Rainbow Dash and Rarity have been making a big river. So you don’t have to say anything, if you don’t want to. Okay? Just make sure to let out as much as you still want to.”

“We-we have to…ha-have to help him.” The quivering voice that directly followed caught her by surprise.

“Well, duh. Of course, we do. He’s our friend, and we need to make sure he gets better and everything.”

“No. I-I mean we’ve got to help him get back home.”

“I know we do. And we will, as soon as we find whatever pony took the Amulet.”

“No. I mean he needs to go back. He really needs to get back there. To his friends, his city, his family. That’s the world he grew up in. The only life he knows. But he does so much good to stop all that bad from getting worse for others, he’s got to get back there. We have to help him.”

As she took in those tearful words, Pinkie Pie wrapped her hooves around Fluttershy, and looked at the twinkling stars that have been covering the sky like a blanket. To think all that stuff seen was the day after stopping the Storm King. We’re probably into tomorrow, now. Oops, silly me. Forgot to put down the avocado pit before leaving. And forgot quotation marks.

“The Storm King always views the new recruits, no matter the rank, as those who have great potential to serve him. Just earning their horns, to show what they’re capable of.”

“You’ve done nothing but show you’re capable of betraying your brethren, for your own, personal happy ending. It’s time you opened your eyes, and witness the atrocities that you’ve committed. What others lost, because of you.”

She strolled aimlessly down the halls, out into the streets, and towards the docked vessel. Ignoring the stares and worried glances that came her way, she simply stared ahead of her, hearing those words repeat themselves over, and over again. Nopony ever said something like that to her in her life. And he was not an actual pony, to begin with. At first, she thought it was just a bunch of words spoken simply to throw her off. But then the visions from his constant nightmares, triggered by his sudden arrival to someplace unfamiliar and far from home, gave more than enough weight to them.

She had no right to receive any form of aid from him. Yet there he was, putting himself in front of that liar king, risking his own hide and limb for not only his friends, but her also. Otherwise, he would have let the Storm King strike her down first before helping. “Because of you.”

Stepping onto the ramp, the purple Unicorn took another disturbed breath from the night air. She could not understand it. He was right to point out what she had done. How far she was willing to go. Even he had more than one instance of parting ways with his friends in terrible ways, but was still able to fight for others and make amends soon after. Choosing to find a better way to get his life back, instead of forcing others to give whatever he demanded.

And the only instance he successfully sought blood was when he was possessed. And his true vengeance was for the loss of others, and what he lost as well. Friends and family. All she had done was seek revenge on unknowing ponies who never even met her, and their friends and families. Scared, hurt, and treated like wild animals. Losing a sense of dignity, safety, love and care. “Because of you.”

But he still gave up his life for her. A better chance in helping his newfound friends and survive himself, if he took that time before she was executed. Instead, he ensured that she had a chance to make it out also. At his own, personal expense. Staring into the neon-blue orbs for eye lenses, Fizzlepop looked at the lying helmet in confusion and marvel at Daredevil’s noble sacrifice. “Because of you.”

Rar: There’s just so much to take from all of this sorrow,

AJ: That it just ain’t right to even try to speak.

Flu: Just wishing for some way to try to make things right,

RD: And then feel like you're just useless and weak.

Twi: How can we all make sense of this,

Or even find a way out of it,

Pin: The only way to get through this

Is not to pout, or throw a fit,

But just take it as it is.

All: As it is. As it is.

Rar: It’s a cyclone to abyss.

All: As it is. As it is.

We just take it as it is.

Rar: When going through all life, its happiness and pain,

AJ: You meet someone with one o’ less, the other more.

Flu: It scares you oh, so much not knowing what it’s like

RD: To be falling from the edge, it rocks your core.

Twi: There must someway to battle this,

Because nothing now seems right,

Pin: Sometimes to deal with this,

Do nothing’s the best way to fight,

And just take it as it is.

All: As it is. As it is.

AJ: No twister’s worse than this.

All: As it is. As it is.

We just take it as it is.

All: As it is. As it is.

RD: A hurricane we can’t miss.

All: As it is. As it is.

We just take it as it is.

Flu: Can’t take much more of this.

We take it as it is.

Twilight made her way to Starlight and Spike, who had been with her parents, to gather everypony back for further discussion. Looking after the ponies in the sick bay, Nightlight and Velvet were more than happy to help look after the little ones while their parents were either getting better from injuries, or seeking to repair damaged homes.

“O-ho-ho my, goodness,” gasped Twilight Velvet in mirth, “Aren’t you just so creative!”

“Thanks, Missus Velvet,” gleamed Dinky, her horn sending a golden hue onto the blocks, “My friends in the Cutie Mark Crusaders said I can try doing more things I have the most fun doing.”

Outside the nursery doors stood two ponies sharing unpleasant faces and words.

“You’re lucky I don’t have that order in print yet,” said the grey Pegasus, “But you’re still not seeing her.”

“Typical of ponies your stature to never consider offering a chance to explain,” the white Unicorn puffed in retort.

“Two moons after the wedding. Another after visiting your parents. And before that, ten more for our engagement, and twenty before that courting you! Don’t think for a second I did this out of nowhere! I finally lost my patience with you!” Boom.

“A-And you’re one to talk?! Leaving without so much as telling me so, let alone were expecting?!”

“I only found out after getting everything filled out. Even if I knew before, I still wouldn’t take any alimony from a fake, and a liar!” Boom.

“I was working up to it! Maybe if you had waited a short while longer for us both finding out, I would’ve had the courage to then tell them!” Boom.

“Really, when? When she was ten? Twenty?” Boom. “Already married, and I’m sitting on a shelf getting dust with the rest of your prized knick-knacks?!” Boom.

“Those compasses are family heirlooms of my family’s efforts the past millennium! And you know it!” Boom.

“Right, of course! How silly of me to think you’d ever raise me to old, dusty stuff from your family!” Boom. “To think I was even a part of that! And besides,” she cut off his attempted response with outstretched wings, “if you’ve been treating me that way in all that time,” Boom. ”what reason could you possibly give me to believe you’d change for her, just like that?!” Fa-LICK! “You’re not even…” Boom. “…worthy to…” Boom. “…hear her…name?”

The whiplash from her tail was the last thing heard from that exchange, however, for both then felt the floors and walls had been quaking. And then-

BAM!

Poff-bling! On instinct, he reached for the nearest object, his I.V. stand, at the sudden shift of air and energy.

“Ma- I mean, Daredevil,” exclaimed Starlight, “We just found out some Storm Creatures used the old cave systems under the Palace to attack! You know where they are, and where they’re headed?”

Tilting his head, shifting his ears, and touching the wall to further absorb vibrations, he picked up on the intruders again.

“They’re taking the south corridor,” he stated evenly, “and are moving nor- wha- Starlight?” Plop. Into his ear was one of those energized crystals.

“Use that to communicate with us. Don’t go anywhere, and let us handle this. Got it?”

“Starlight, wai-” Pling! Touching the piece in his ear he continued, “Starlight, they’ve got four hostages. They’re taking the northeast stairwell now. Towards the Princesses’ armory.”

“They’re on their way to get that staff back,” came Twilight’s voice, as the group galloped to that same destination. “And where the Storm King’s pieces are kept! We can’t let them use it to bring him back!”

“Wait,” said Dash, “They can do that?”

“As long as they have every, single piece,” next Luna’s voice, “Restoring his nature, fully intact, is feasible.”

“Recon we ain’t got no time to lose, then.”

Rarity asked, “But what abou-”

“Rarity, your left!” Sensing her weave back, and allow Starlight to blast their first attacker, he continued, “Dash, Pinkie’s got two more from behind.”

The shift and gusts against that hallway were enough indication of her response.

“Twilight, Applejack, keep Spike and Fluttershy close to the center with Cadence. Now two more your right, Glimmer.” As soon as the small Dragon and Pegasus complied, the Alicorns and Earth Pony stayed around them, as Twilight aided the Unicorn.

“Once Luna and Celestia take down the doors for cover fire, make a brake for it inside.”

“Captain Sentry will help secure the area when he arrives,” said Cadence. “But there’s still the hostages to worry about.”

“Ahem.” As he continued to listen and feel the ponies’ movements, he picked up on Tempest’s smug entrance. “I gathered you could use some extra padding.”

Feeling the clunk of a sack onto the floor, he smirked as to what she meant, and where her armor was. “You’re sure it’s expandable?”

“Best-graded material bits can buy.”

“What was that, Murdock,” asked Dash on the other end, after bucking an enemy down.

“Be ready, ponies,” firmly spoke Celestia, breaching the doors with her sister.

POW!

“MOM!” Both Twilight and Dinky screamed, for once she and Blueblood were freed from their captors, the Alicorn spotted Velvet and Ditzy held high by their necks. The small filly wanted to come at that monster with all her anger, but was pulled back by a golden aura, and towards a white hoof.

“Go! Finish the job!” As the remaining Storm Creatures went out the shattered window as ordered, the ponies made to follow. “Another step, and they snap like twigs!”

“He’s not lying,” said Daredevil from the earpiece. “Stay still, but buy some time.”

“What’re you-” Twilight began.

“SHUT IT!” The squeezing grips in front his face made it difficult for anypony to take him. “You miserable meat-sacks have been trouble long enough! Now I know what you’re thinking. Can’t go for the face with magic or a flying charge. Any steps to the side, they lose more air. A direct attack on the gut or legs, I still finish them. Not enough time for anything else.”

“He’s right. You’re too far out of range. Just keep his attention.”

“You’re trapped, sir,” Celestia stated, “No matter the outcome here, you’ll be overrun. More ponies surround this very chamber, at this moment.”

“Maybe,” he shrugged behind the whimpering, gasping mares, “But so long as the Storm King returns, I know I’ve done my part.”

“But to what en-” started Twilight again.

“I SAID SHUT IT! That’s all you’re allowed to say, until the Storm King comes to hear your last-” WHISH-whoo-whoo-yank-smack!

From the window, a swinging red blur and cable pulled onto his right horn for him to receive a staggering blow to the eye. Dropping his leverage, Dizty and Velvet coughed and struggled to rise, and were teleported to safety.

“Matt,” gasped everypony else, followed by Twilight, “What’re you doing?”

Seeing him stand on both hind legs, and wearing Fizzlepop's Storm Armor and helmet, he answered, “Tempest sent a shock up my leg to numb it a little. Go stop the others.”

“But,” stammered Fluttershy with worry, “But what abou-”

“He’s mine.” The brief snarl with raised batons held everypony in suspense, until Twilight took initiative and ran towards the same window. At that, her friends followed, and Cadence took Ditzy, Dinky, Velvet and Blueblood back with the Royal Sisters, lifting the battered doors to close from behind.

“Ha,” blasted Dis in mockery and arrogance, “Thought you just dive right in, like before!? Well, you just wasted your friends’ precious time!”

“Stop right there!” Upon the Alicorn’s outcry, the giant beasts were smacked from a zipping Rainbow Dash, then lassoed at the legs by Applejack.

“No Storm King for you, bozos!”

“Ha! Got that right, AJ!”

“When they realize what’s going on,” Dis sneered further, “they’ll be too late.”

“B-But,” grunted the one with the emptied sack in fear, “But that’s what we were told!”

“What's he talking about,” asked Spike.

Twilight inquired, “What were you told?”

“The Storm King is dead," hissed Dis, "Long live the Storm King.”

“Serg- I-I mean, King Dis told us to get rid of the pieces down the waterfalls here, so he could rule! He also sent us to draw your attention away from him!”

“Oh, no,” she gasped in realization, “The STAFF!”

“Caught off guard, your precious Princesses will be taken of their power for good, and I will rule with a massive torrent the world’s never seen! Won't have to grovel to that coward who put a pony over me, anymore! Now every one of you ponies will be begging for mercy from me! Every stallion, mare and foal will be wanting their deaths to come before the end!”

“AAAAAAHHHH!”

Racing back into the Royal Sisters’ armory, they spotted the staff laying idly on the floor. Further ahead was a sight nopony was expecting.

“Wha-What did you do,” Twilight gasped in horror, promptly shielding Spike's eyes. Fluttershy and Rarity did the same for themselves. Celestia, Luna and Cadence reopened the doors with equal shock.

“He....He let him out,” growled a panting Daredevil, sitting on his haunches beside the battered, reddened face of Dis. Those fiery blue eyes of that horned, black helmet turned to them next. “Don’t worry, he’s alive. Made sure of that.”

“It appears not merely the nightmares were a result of his sudden displacement,” Luna began, as they returned to the throne room, “But also succumbing to his furious outbursts.”

“With Mister Murdock returning to extensive care,” added Celestia, “It’s prudent we keep him under close surveillance for the time being.”

“Even after he’s healed from the Crystal Heart,” Cadence said, “Shining and I need to be sure his passionate rage is kept in check by the Heart also.”

“I remember when he found out Discord was taken,” said Starlight, “He was pretty shaken, but he never lashed out at anypony, or anything, like he did last night.”

“Or when Midnight Rider attacked Fluttershy,” said Pinkie, her Pegasus friend absent in all of this, and in Rarity’s care.

“The love shared by the Crystal Ponies enables them to share in wisdom and virtue also,” replied the pink Alicorn, “But that love can be twisted and used to drive them towards an end they’re most passionate about. Whether it’s in fear or rage, especially in protecting others.”

“Given his tragic youth and accumulated hardships,” the night-blue Regent spoke, “It appears his passion for fighting cruel oppressors was vigorously awakened. That same drive uses whatever means to express it. If left unchecked…Well, seeing the results of last night, you can imagine what Sombra could have done on a global scale.”

As these words were exchanged, Fizzlepop sat against a far wall to listen once again.

“Golly. To think he knew Dis had that scepter, after all. Kept us out o' there from watchin' him do that." Then Applejack wondered, "And bein’ a Crystal Pony made him get all riled-up like that?”

“More likely,” answered the ivory Alicorn, “he transformed into a being in this world that best expresses his outlook, emotions, beliefs and practices, as well as the innermost depths of his soul. One that’s been torn from the life and friends he knew and loved. Even before arriving here.”

“To show what we mean,” Cadence stated, “There's a memory of what he said to me and Twilight, while we were captured.”

Eyes briefly downcast, they remembered how their Alicorn friend also took Spike out from what they were about to watch. Igniting her sky-blue aura, Cadence projected her memories onto a floating pool before them.

“My grandma, she used to say about me and my Dad, ‘Better watch those two. They’ve got the devil in them.’ When he was in the ring, he could really take a punch. Then he'd power through to give out an even worse beating. So much fire and energy in what he did, not just to provide, but also show just how great of a fighter he was. And with that, he’d just let the devil out.

For a time, I'd shut everything out. Sensing exactly how much everyone suffered around me drove me insane, so I blocked it out. But when I met Electra at the school of law, we got along so well because we kept looking for the unexpected. Having fun by causing trouble in small, but still irresponsible ways.

But then she took me to this house, where he was hiding out. The guy who…took him away from me. She tied him to a chair, and let me at him. When he recognized me, he laughed, despite the punches laid on him. He said he…that he’d mop the streets with me, like he did to my Dad.

Then I just lost it. Lashed out at him, never letting up. Even though he was already under. Electra relished in it. I smelled her adrenaline rush. When he was an inch left of his life…then she insisted I finish the job. I said no. Then she left. Turns out it was a test for me made by Stick.

But she had opened the doors. I was letting the devil out. Foggy said it wasn’t because I had enough, but I couldn’t stop myself. I didn’t want to stop. In some ways, I still don’t.”

Upon hearing those confessed words, the purple Unicorn recalled what else he said in that brig. “You might as well finish me off, here and now. Because I. Won’t. Stop.”

Capitol 7ins

The silence bounced off the skyward arches as though it were a breath. Stone-cold pillars hardly shook at the hustling traffic outside, and the subway trains beneath. The endless stretch of oak pews in need of a new finish would meet the cane, as he passed. He took his place near the curtained cove to stand, awaiting his turn. In this moment of recollection, he could only focus his senses on the singular coffin that stood before the altar. The contents inside held no degree of warmth and energy, as it once did. When her soul resided there. Now, only the embalming chemicals escaped through the wooden case. He could only hope for the resurrection to come in the end, as he often heard recited in the Creed. Unlike Elektra’s experience.

Hearing the curtain whoosh open, and the occupant departing from there, he stepped forward. The man reached for the rings of that hanging cloth to enclose himself, before taking his seat on the chair of similar varnish as the pews. Next, he rested his cane to the side, and raised three fingers to touch his forehead, chest, and shoulders, left and right. Clasping his hands together to interlock, he shakily breathed his opening prayer.

“Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It’s been eight days since my last confession. Once again, I’ve wandered from the straight and narrow. There were times I hardly spoke to my Mom, out of anger and spite. I was ruthless and brash towards my best friend, along with my ex-girlfriend, though unwittingly drugged. And just recently, I…I’ve lost someone very dear to me. Again. This is the third time one’s been taken, the second by one man’s hands. I looked for him, wanting so desperately to…to end him. Twice, I had him. Twice, he slipped away. But in the process, I regressed further. Letting the devil out on any who knew where I could find him. And another man, who planned the whole thing, he…he wanted me to end him also. But then I realized how easy it was, and let him be. Only to have him take his own life, when I probably could’ve done something about it. Then I…I’ve been pondering similar courses of action. Before another great friend, and powerful ally comforted me.”

After a moment of silence, Lantom spoke, “Remember the seven deadly sins. How pride is the root of the other six, and love’s true opposite. Hatred is only a twisted form of love, when you will the good of one, instead of another. You must strive for both, as our Savior gave His life, suffered and died for all us sinners. But pride, pride is when the devil twists and feeds that emotion of self-worth. To raise oneself onto a podium, above all others. False sense of worth, and no humility. That triggers greed, lust, envy, gluttony, sloth and wrath to venture into our souls. Then comes hatred, though spontaneous at times. That includes excessive pride in our free will, and decide it’s within our right to end ourselves when we wish.

As for your constant battle with your friends and loved ones, they suffer your loss also, for it becomes their loss. As He has suffered for us, and with us also. Take comfort in knowing we’re never alone in our lifelong purge for virtue and love, striving to receive that heavenly grace in the seven Sacraments, especially the Eucharist. To give us the seven capital virtues of humility, generosity, chastity, meekness, temperance, diligence, and most importantly, brotherly love.

Remember to treat others how you wish to be treated also. ‘Love your neighbor, as yourself.’ To 'love those who hate you, for if you only love those who love you, what reward is there?' And as it also says in Scripture, He ‘sees not as man sees.’ He sees your heart, Matthew, and knows your soul. Let Him in, so He may help. He’s always capable of helping us. He just waits for our call to invite Him fully.”

“Even if that heart’s badly damaged?”

“Especially when that heart’s badly damaged.”

Taking a deep, somber breath, he recited his Act of Contrition. He then raised his hoof to his forehead, barrel, and shoulders, left and right, then kissed the medal crucifix. After reflecting on those final words of meditation, Daredevil set down his rosary on the side table, and tilted his head towards the upcoming visitors. The jagged horn of one was lowered in deep thought as well.

Capitol 7ins

“Hi,” said Starlight as she approached.

“Good afternoon, Starlight. Lieutenant.”

Fizzlepop nodded mildly at his greeting, then Starlight spoke on, “We just wanted to check up on you. See how you’re doing.”

“Better, thanks,” he smiled in her direction. “Miss Do and her daughter just came over to say goodbye. Wanted an earlier train after some fun at the Festival.”

Seeing the nicely decorated basket full of muffins and get-well card, the bright purple Unicorn nodded, “Nice. Pinkie thought a ‘See-you-around’ party would be a good way to send you off too. Though, it’s a pretty quiet one, compared to all the others she’s made.”

“That mare really likes to throw parties,” muttered Fizzlepop in smirk.

“Always hear her wanting to throw one special for me for sometime,” he chuckled back, “But at this rate, she might have to come all the way up to the Empire to make that happen.”

“And she would, believe me,” said Starlight, “If I know her, she’s got the train ticket and blueprints set for that already.”

“Then I’ll be looking forward to it.”

“So, uh,” she stated, rubbing her hoof against her neck, “Before the nurses get you ready for us to go, I think you two could do with a little talking. I mean, I know I did, when starting things fresh with Twilight and the others. Be back in a minute.”

The violet mare turned to watch Starlight make her exit from the sick bay, her hoofsteps echoing throughout the vacant chamber. As the doors shut with a pom, she turned back to face the blank stare of those bedridden eyes. Nothing was said for what seemed an eternity, as Daredevil’s even demeanor remained still and patient. No tension seemed to emanate from him, yet she still felt uncomfortable about this.

“If it’s any consolation,” he began, “You could view this as practice with your old friends. I know I could’ve used some of that, myself.”

Huffing another smirk at his remark, she said, “That’s partly why I’m here. I’m also…wondering what else can be done.”

“I’ve been in that position before. In some ways, still am.”

“Because you’re still struggling to live by that example of perfect friendship from your homeworld, right?”

“Yeah, exactly right.”

As she raised her hoof, she said, “Then how’s this, for starters? Fizzlepop Berrytwist.”

Lifting his own to meet hers, he spoke in kind, “Matt Murdock.”

He spun it around, and around. Rolling it back, and forth from his left paw to the right. First came the time he watched Daredevil’s memories and nightmares, then stopped watching. Then came that very short moment he saw that knocked out Storm Creature, before Twilight kept him from seeing any more. He knew Fluttershy was a wreck after watching the whole dream sequence, then having to deal with that also. So much so that Rarity had to go outside with her, the same as Twilight with him. Now, all that he seemed up to doing today was glumly playing with the pit from Daredevil’s small sack. To and fro. Going, and stopping. Making it go round, and round, and round.

“Ooh-ooh! Okay, they’re coming!” Pinkie’s whispered exclamation from the doors brought him out his dim daze. Instead, now the small Dragon swiftly tucked the pit away. Then he watched the doors with anxiety, even more so than the others.

“Hi, everypony,” lightly chuckled Starlight, as Spike watched her blue magic push the wheelchair before her. “Sorry if we’re a little late. The nurses just had to be sure he’s as comfy as possible.”

“If they hadn’t already,” the seated stallion smirked, his red shades reflecting the sunlight as he turned towards those greeting him. “Good afternoon, everyone.”

“And a good afternoon it is,” Luna spoke, “We’re glad you could make it, Counselor. And in such better spirits.”

“Yes,” nodded Celestia, “my sister speaks for us all how good it is to know your health’s improved. Physically, and emotionally.”

“Guessing Cadence could tell how genuine I acted, when she visited also.”

“Only to some extent,” the pink Alicorn smiled back, “You're behavior on the outside reflects how calm you are inside, especially after another good rest.”

“Thanks. Is everything set for tomorrow?"

"Just about. Except for this last, private event in the Festival for us."

"And the Dos made it to the station alright?"

"Yes. With our last efforts in helping Ditzy in her personal crisis. The rest is up to her, now."

"Glad to hear it. Look, before we get started, I…I have something I’d like to say.”

“Well of course, darling,” Rarity was the first to speak up, “Tell us what’s on your mind.”

“Yeah,” said Rainbow Dash, “That’s what we’re all here for.”

After heaving a deep breath, he began, “With everything that’s happened lately, I can’t thank any of you enough for your time and energy to…to take in all that you have. I know I had been cryptic, and cautiously deceptive of my origins, abilities, and activities. And I hope you could forgive me for that. As for the rest, I…” swallowing his pride, he opened up, “I’m aware I'm not the most comfortable, or pleasant individual you’ll ever meet. Given my violent history, both done to me and by me, there’s a whole lot to take in and accept. So…So forgive me, also, for bringing this darkness onto all of you. As I have with friends before you. And I hope to make amends as best I can.” Ziiiip-squeaze. “Oof.”

“Duh! Of course we forgive you, silly,” Pinkie beamed brightly, as she embraced her chair-bound friend. “What’s there to forgive anyway? You let us get to see what’s been your problems, and trusted us. Then the whole being cryptic thing was just your way of getting to know us better, before doing what you promised.”

“Yeah, bud,” the blue Pegasus nodded, “And you’ve got nothing to worry about us. Hay! We were saved by Starlight, Trixie and Discord from Changelings that took us and put us in green, cocoon-things to feed off our love for each other. And before that, we got all our magic sucked out of us by a giant centaur. And recently, we got to fight some creepy misty, shadowy, giant evil pony. So a stud in freaky black armor, giving some jerk a beating’s just icing on the cake.”

“While that whole backstory there takes it,” added Applejack, “But it ain’t nothin’ to fret on, no more. Glad to know you trusted us with it, and ‘specially Luna. Op’ning up like that sure ain’t no hayride.”

“You’re with friends here,” warmly spoke Twilight, reaching her hoof to his shoulder, “And we’ll always remain that way for you, no matter what. Especially after everything you’ve done for us, including my sister-in-law and niece.”

Raising his hoof from his split staff on his lap, he gently touched against that familial gesture.

“Just did what’s expected of any friend,” he smiled back. “Since that’s what makes-”

“-life worth living.” At her and Cadence’s joining with his words, Twilight smiled even more brightly.

“And a Foalton Sheen reference, at that! Which makes me wonder, is there a similar individual from your world?”

With that, almost everypony ventured towards him and Starlight’s position, as Fizzlepop softly smiled at the heartwarming reception. But just then, Spike saw her take a look at him, then towards a more reserved Fluttershy, as both remained seated.

He could only guess what might still be bothering her. Maybe the same thing that was getting at him. Sure, they all had gone through very bad things since Twilight and the others became the Elements of Harmony. Marching into the Everfree Forest more than once, Discord turning them against each other, Chrysalis and Tirek, his visits through altered, and terrible times with Twilight, nearly falling when apologizing to Thorax. And even more recently, with the Pony of Shadows. And now that Storm King. He still remembered falling after the Crystal Heart, while that terrifying face of Sombra went straight at him. But this, this seemed to be bothering him even more still. And he just could not figure out why, right now.

Sitting down on the train to Ponyville, she enwrapped her sleeping daughter tenderly with her wing. She knew very well how much of a scare it had been these past few days for them both, and most especially Dinky. So now, to have this smooth, quiet, and uneventful train ride, away from the Equestrian capitol and back home, they both have the perfect chance to rest and recover.

After she watched her little filly snuggly fall asleep, she went for her bag with her other wing to see if she could find something inside to read. But the second she opened and searched through it, she noticed an envelope with her name on it. Not recognizing the hoofwriting, Ditzy decided to open and see what she might find. Once she removed the folded letter inside, she lifted a flap to read its contents.

Dear Ditzy,

Before you decide to stop and find the nearest Unicorn to incinerate this, I ask that you please read further. With my cousin Cadence here to aid me, I make this solemn vow to set things right. Having to state that sentence made me swallow more pride than I thought possible. It’s bitterly disgusting, yet I must carry on. As I’m writing this, a notice to visit my parents has been sent post haste. When I meet them tonight, with Cadence’s help before leaving tomorrow, I will inform them of our concealed relationship and brief marriage from them, out of fear of their disapproval. I’m confident they will not find the news to their liking, but I will tell them I’ll renounce my ties to them, and the club my family has participated in for generations, if they choose not to accept their grandfilly and her mother. It’s time I took courage and stood up for the family I never knew existed, for I kept it in the shadows. Nevermind, all that was even far more horrid to the tongue.

But please know that I genuinely wanted to love you, when I proposed. Only, I succumbed to my fears and insecurities from the pressure of my elevated, and heavily bloated social status by my parents. After you left, I felt I had nothing left to retreat to, except to fully immerse myself in that. But also know, Cadence being a witness alongside Miss Rarity, I’ve never truly caught my eye on anypony else. To be most perfectly sincere, I could never keep you from returning to the forefront of my heart. Wherever I turn, I see you. That same timid, overly modest mare who crashed into me at that street corner. It was a strange encounter that shook me to my core, for I never, in my life, encountered such an honest, and earnest, individual until then.

I’m well aware such flattery won't regain any favor from you, nor should it. And I know how that special eye of yours helps you read between the lines, as it always did. But no matter how much you saw, you still hoped for the best in me. That is, until I failed you far, too many times. Especially last night, when your life was in great peril, and all I could do was stand frightfully aside, and watch some other stallion come to your aid when needed the most.

At any rate, when my parents most likely will refuse my ultimatum, I expect to deliver on it, and much to their surprise I imagine. Then, and only then, will I seek your pardon and clemency, and a second chance to right every wrong I’ve made. And hopefully, with your permission, to come visit Dinky. The last thing I wish for now is finding I spoiled every chance granted to me in providing her with a father.

Should you accept my official apology and complete proposition when I send them, my mailing address will be at the Clive Stable-Lentils Hotel, room 987, after moving my affairs away from my family’s estate. When you receive them, take all the time needed to decide.

In earnest,

Vlad

The same hoofwriting on the envelope did not conceal the phrases she recognized to be his, so she understood why he started with that first sentence. And it seemed Princess Cadence was doing more than writing this letter as he dictated. For him to accept responsibility, and admit his own faults, and starting to settle matters, and then ask for a second chance in being a part of her and Dinky’s life. If not for the notion, and writing to show that the Princess of Love interceded in this matter, she would have thought this was too good to be true. In fact, she still thought so.

But then she remembered, when she was being held so violently by that cruel monster last night. She remembered seeing her daughter go after him to help. Afraid of the danger, she then saw the filly enveloped in that golden hue she had inherited, and then taken behind that white hoof to be safe. She knew he did not fail her then, but instead did what she would have wanted most in this life. Seeing her little Dinky in the safe hooves of somepony who could look after her. She remembered Cadence visiting Daredevil too, and gave her and Dinky a reassuring talk when they left for the station.

“Oh, now this is simply marvelous,” Rarity exclaimed, as she levitated a bottle of dark, dark red liquid, “Capitol Zins. The finest beverage in all of Canterlot. Most excellent choice, Pinkie Pie, if I do say so.”

“I just picked it out because I liked that funny-looking word on the bottle. Zin! It’s a got a kind of uppity-zippitiy-do-dah feel in the mouth, when I say it.”

Rainbow Dash tilted her head in wonder. “Why? The hay’s it even mean, anyway?”

“It’s a play on words,” answered Twilight, “It’s the abbreviated form of zinfandel, a black grape that grows in Vanhoover, while also referring to the word that means something you desire and like, interested in, or craving for.”

“And if you find yourself in Canterlot,” finished the white mare, “This would be the capital means of quenching such. A capital drink to have, in the capitol of Equestria. Especially during the summer.”

Applejack chuckled in response, “Well, I’m bettin’ it ain’t got nothin’ on Sweet Apple Acre cider during the fall harvest, fermented’r not.”

“Oh no, Applejack,” said Rarity, “Like the cider, fermented bottles are for evening consumption and enjoyment, while this juice is simply for a nice luncheon of sandwiches.”

“No hurt in tryin’ it still, I reckon.”

“And I made the most amazing, super-duper PB&Js for lunch!” Instantly the ecstatic mare brought forth trays of cut delicacies brought to the table. As the ponies marveled at the sudden display before them, a royal courier approached Fizzlepop with a vase of flowers and note.

While the liquid was being poured, the violet Unicorn decided to place the flowers onto the table, before opening the envelope for its contents. Everypony started to help themselves to the halved pieces of bread, peanut butter and jelly. Spike and Fluttershy simply fiddled with their sole halves in a somber fashion. Only the four Alicorns and Crystal Pony seemed to notice them, but Daredevil then picked up on the rising tension from another.

Once the glasses were filled to their respective owners, a blurred motion of a blue hoof took hold of one first.

“First off,” began the Pegasus owner of that hoof, “I think it’s totally awesome how more friends we got to make and know more about. So I just think it’d be cool to say that this should first be to Murdock and Berrytwist. That they become even more awesome and cooler, while we help them sort out whatever messes they deal with in the future.”

“Here, here,” chanted Rarity, as she and the others raised their cups.

He hardly smiled while raising his own, for Fizzlepop hardly acknowledged what was being said, never leaving her shocked gaze from the paper statically held by her magic.

“Stop!” Dash and Pinkie had their muzzles up to their glasses, when everyone else was startled and turned to her exclamation.

“What’s wrong, Fizzle,” asked Pinkie, “Didn’t you like what Rainbow Dash said?”

“What does the note say,” he asked also, prompting the others to realize what frightened the mare.

She read aloud, “To Miss Fizzlepop Berrytwist, formerly known as Lieutenant Tempest Shadow: You first allowed your pride to cloud your judgment, believing you were more worthy of healing and closure than all others, and seeking such at their expense. Your lust for the power from our kind, wise, and caring Princesses as a means for that came with your greed. That envious desire ruined the joys found in all your fellow ponies. Lazy in your search for a better way, you justified your hunger by siding with the most vicious rage and havoc that ever threatened Equestria throughout the millennium, most recent attacks and dangers included.

Therefore, it’s with a heavy heart to inform you of the punishment for such crimes against the crowns, and all ponykind. Before you lies the challenge you must face. It ends when you decide who must perish, as you once tried to do. You have until sunset to find the poison, or else another catastrophe awaits Canterlot. Then you’ll find out if you were right, or not.”

“So the bottle was poisoned,” shakily breathed Fluttershy, as everypony set their cups back onto the table.

“Sister,” Luna spoke, “I’ll fetch for the courier who delivered that message. Also to have that vase and envelope analysed for DNA and arcane traces.”

“Cadence and I will send the guards to investigate any suspicious activity in Canterlot,” Celestia replied, “as well as survey that hideout found by Murdock and Mistmane more thoroughly. But we must have them do so without causing a mass panic.”

“Bluebood and I are heading to the northern district this evening,” said the pink Alicorn, “I’ll have Guards dressed as bystanders while looking for any threats. We should start where the last of the Festival's happening.”

“I’ll get my laboratory kit from my room that Spike packed for me, just in ca- SPIKE!”

Chug-og. Chug-og. Chug-og. All gasped in total shock at the sight, as the small Dragon rushed to drink every glass that was filled. Clockwise, he diligently started with his own, then Twilight’s, Cadence’s, and so on, until he finished with Fluttershy's. He had moved more slowly around the table as he progressed, because of how upset his stomach was getting.

“Spike,” squeaked a tearing Twilight, “Spike, why’d you-?” BELCH! Fwoooosh!

As the green pillar of flames finally settled, he sat back down, rubbed his gut and gasped, “Whoo! Sorry. Guess it wasn’t as easy as I thought.”

“Just what in tarnation were you thinkin’, sugarcube!”

“I looked at one of those books Twilight had, during that whole Dragon migration thing,” he grumbled, “I remembered reading how we’re not just known for tough scales that can’t burn from lava, but also-” burp, “Also got a tough immune system for every known poison in Equestria.”

“But which volume was that,” the lavender mare asked in nervous haste, “I’m sure I would’ve remembered reading that!”

“Dragon Diet & Digestion."

"I nearly spent my preparation time that day wondering where it went!"

"Sorry, Twi,” he replied, “Forgot to return it 'til after the migration.”

“But you were all freaked out, when you had to dive into that volcano,” Rainbow Dash countered.

“Because I knew what would happen,” the hatchling grimaced at the memory, “Belly flop on what felt like pavement. Red, hot pavement.”

“And you never tried to stop him,” Twilight then turned sharply towards the blind stallion.

Daredevil shrugged, “He whispered that I should trust him. And his vitals and other functions are still the same, indigestion aside. Foggy would be proud, by the way."

"Really," the green and purple reptile gleamed, "You think so?"

"Know so. Practically tasting it off my palate.”

“He-heh,” chuckled Spike sheepishly, “Sorry.”

“But with that crisis settled,” Rarity jumped in, “and so bravely done I might add, all we have left to do is find the source. Where’d you say you purchased the bottle, Pinkie?”

“Oh, I just grabbed the first unopened bottle I saw from one of the massively huge refrigerators in one of the kitchens.”

“You’re positive it hadn’t been opened yet,” Twilight asked, while Celestia, Luna and Cadence teleported to conduct their parts of the investigation.

“Yep! It made a funny hissing and psh-ing sound when I got it off the seal.”

“It might’ve been laced at the bottom before being filled and packaged,” the sole Alicorn in the room pondered. “The local establishment that produced it might have an employee who’s with that conspiracy.”

“You think those nut-cases who stole the Amulet and took Discord are behind this,” asked the blue Pegasus in hover, “That doesn’t make any sense.”

“I agree,” nodded Daredevil. He then shifted in his wheelchair towards the half-emptied bottle before the Princess. “They’re convinced the Elements of Harmony don’t take enough action in battling Equestria’s enemies, and in recovery efforts. That much is true, but would they really want to go so far as making a former adversary choose between one of the Elements and the populace they claim to be helping?”

“Okay, then maybe the cups themselves were laced with liquid poison from somepony on the inside, and dried before Pinkie got them.” But then, Twilight conceded, "But the culprit also claimed to seek justice for the Princesses, in poisoning their cups also. A very illogical course of action, unlike what we’ve seen from them, so far.”

“The cups came from my room, in my secret, special juice-party case that I packed. Good thing too, since most of my other things got used on the Storm Creatures. My room was unlocked, but that case has an even more special secret, special code on the lock.”

“Is it your birthday,” Dash hoarsely deadpanned.

“No, silly! It’s the day I became the Elements with all of you! Oops,” she spoke in whisper, “I just told my secret code. Aw, now I got to go and change it.”

“But even if anything had been laced,” the gold-yellow stallion added, “I would’ve picked up on it. Unless the poison were odorless. And tasteless, since I didn’t pick up anything strange from Spike’s...outburst.”

“Right,” Dash remarked, “Nothing strange about smelling a baby Dragon’s breathe after a fiery belch of poisoned grape juice. And that wouldn’t really be brave if he knew he’d be okay, Rarity.”

“He still took a chance, however low that may have been. It may have also been something of unknown origins, instead of Equ- I-I mean, he still jumped at the opportunity to help us. Isn’t that right, Spike? Spike? Darling?”

Turning to look at his chair, everypony saw him curl up under the tablecloth he pulled over himself, snoring with steam jetting from his snout. ZZZZZzzzzz. Hiss.

“Too much to eat or drink, and too quickly still makes him drowsy,” whispered Twilight, now relieved after his lack of response, especially towards Rarity. “Phew.”

“My point is,” said Daredevil, “we have no way of knowing, for sure, if anything’s been poisoned right now.”

“Which is why I’m taking these glasses with me to our room, after putting Spike down for his nap. I have a laboratory kit, with a macro-spectrometer in place. That way, we can tell which one, if not all, have been poisoned, and with what. Now I need to confirm this, but judging by your supposition and observations, it might be the powdered form of reinocane. It dissolves instantly in liquids. Can’t smell it, or taste it.”

With Twilight levitating the bottle and cups, and Spike sleeping on her back, Starlight trotted behind to push the stallion’s wheelchair again. The rest of the ponies trailed after them, Fizzlepop taking the tail end. The lavender mare’s crimson aura encompassed the doorway also, allowing for them all to enter. Placing the slumbering Dragon in the smaller bed, she enwrapped him with the sheets and blankets. With that, they made their way to her adjacent section, closing that door behind them. But then she approached the chair-bound stallion in a whispered outburst.

“How could you have let him take a risk, like that?!”

“Twilight,” warily spoke Starlight.

“He asked for my trust, and I complied,” he evenly, and lowly replied. “I kept track of his bodily functions vigilantly, just in case.”

“And then what? Expecting something to happen, and nopony would know how to help?”

“I knew you’d be well familiar with poisons and their effects, given your position and recent events. And since you brought a portable lab, I was also under the impression you’re prepared for practically anything. Most likely some antidote. All I’d have to do was give you the symptoms.”

“So that’s it? You’re decision to let my number one assistant, and B.A.L.B.F.F., take a dangerous gambit was based solely on assumptions?!”

“Twilight.”

“I don’t assume anything about my friends! I trust them.”

“Like when you trusted us with Sergeant Dis, last night?! Or like you trusted Franklin with your secret, when meeting him?! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to take some samples for study.”

Before the Alicorn could reach for the case, however, the Crystal stallion spoke on from behind her. “Both were errors of judgment on my part. The latter was based on juvenile fear of dejection. And the former, impulsive rage. I realize I’m no saint, least not 'til after my passing. And last night wasn’t the first time I’ve regressed so low. Most likely won’t be the last. But that’s just something I have to live with, like everything else.”

Hearing the pain in those restrained words made everypony exhale deeply, and slightly tensed by their firm acceptance.

“Maybe you don’t have to.” All turning to see the source of that meek voice, Fluttershy shuffled back slightly. “Um, what I mean is, if you let us in to help you, even though you make the same bad choices again, then maybe you won’t have to worry about that so much.”

At that, they heard Daredevil heave a deep sigh and mutter, “A stranger, and you invited me. The least of my brethren. Guess it’s about time I stopped being a stranger to all of you.”

“Well,” said the lavender mare, regaining focus, “with Spike now resting, I think we should discuss further about what we’re up against.”

“Um,” said Fizzlepop, “We know that the note and flowers were meant for me, and that somepony knows about my past.”

“That’s because I shared with other ponies how much trouble you went through, then helped us get out of more trouble by making yourself turn to stone, and how you became a really good friend with us after we brought you back,” chirped the pink Earth Pony, who then sheepishly shrugged. “Sorry.”

“Well, as soon as I finish using my instruments to determine the correct plant being used, I might be able to narrow down our search to a few floral & herb shops in Canterlot.”

“But whatever poison was used, reinocane or otherwise,” said Daredevil, “They were able to slip it past security, undetected. And they gave her ‘til sundown to decide which one. How much time’s left?”

“Twelve minutes and forty-three, forty-two seconds,” was the Alicorn’s response, after checking a floating pocket watch.

“What else is happening at that time,” the Crystal Pony asked.

“This isn’t the Summer Sun Celebration," she answered, "and that’s just for the following sunrise. Only the Friendship Festival’s still going on outside, but even that’s been reduced in attendance at this time of day.”

“Which means there couldn’t have been anything planned for a threat there. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have demanded that sort of attention from the Princesses.”

“Unless it was meant to be a way of distracting us. Diverting our attention away from what’s really happening.”

“If that be the case, why spend all that energy to try and poison one particular, if not all thirteen cups for one pony to decide from?”

“It does sound like quite the hassle to orchestrate a lethally exaggerated form of Rushinian roulette.”

“I’m sure I’ll get the details on that later. But back to the point made earlier, how do we know if they were poisoned to begin with? I highly doubt security could be waning, especially after such an attack.”

“Paranoia mixed with little sleep for a few Royal Guards might answer that. But I see your point. Somepony risking to bring such a deadly concoction through the simplest means of transportation, through a heavily guarded Palace, into the kitchen, where somepony like Pinkie-”

“That’s me!”

“-will go to that particular fridge, out of the many different galleys and cafeterias in the Palace, in that one spot where it’d be the first one Pinkie would see and use. Even though it’s probable, that’s far too much planning made for something so spontaneous and on short notice.”

“So, why? Why go through all that trouble?”

“Because they wouldn't have, and didn't!Shh. Sorry.”

“Okay, anypony else getting their heads spinning from all this?” Upon Rainbow Dash’s remark, the other spectators shared nods and various levels of sympathy in response.

“Supposing Twilight was correct,” Daredevil elaborated, “in thinking that those who stole the Amulet and abducted Discord are behind this.”

“The note was meant to be a way of distracting us, and focusing on something else, like another threat against us and other ponies. The best way to do that is through Fizzlepop Berrytwist, because of how easy it’d be to shift the blame and focus onto her. And if you were to distract somepony with an empty threat, that means-” DING!

Reaching for the printed results from her machine, Twilight levitated it in front of her. “It means that nopony’s cup was poisoned, or even the bottle.” Poof-bling!

“Twilight! Everypony,” exclaimed Luna after her entrance, “The juice was not poisoned!”

"Luna, shh! Spike's sleeping!

“And we just found that out, Luna,” said Rainbow, “Like, just now. Before you-”

“It's the vase!”

“Wait, the flowers,” asked Starlight, then followed by Fizzlepop.

“I don’t understand. What do you mean?”

“The water inside contained traces of reinocane, and the flowers drank from that! You have until sunset to decide which of us to eat a flower from the poisoned vase!”

“Well, that’s easy,” huffed the blue Pegasus, “Just wake Spike back up.”

“No.” All then shifted their focus onto the chair-bound Crystal Pony, who held a grin beneath his red lenses. “I have a better idea.”

It was time. Dusk had just lit the horizon of plains below the Royal Palace and its capitol. Specks of stars began to blink to life over the hues of dark blue, then purple, orange, and some remaining yellow. Such a spectacle entered with a breath of fresh, evening air into the dining room. Where the vase now sat. Ck-reeeeeiiiiiiiiiik.

The movement of a silhouetted cloak drifted towards the table where the flowers stood. Slowly raising a hoof beneath the cloak’s shadow towards them, it shifted from one to the other in count.

“All thirteen are there.” The voice stiffened the hoof to a quiver, as the pony turned to face the unexpected company.

“Zinnias,” the voice continued, from the furthest corner where no more light could touch. “A simple, yet impressive selection, but I prefer violets myself. You were right, though.” Fzzzz-crackle-pop. The teal veins of electricity were alight from its stubby source, which beheld a dark purple snout sneering on. “I would find out if I was right, or not. Only you planned for me to be wrong, whatever choice I’d make.”

Quickly, the hooded pony darted back to the door used for entry. Only to see the Regents of Day and Night escorted by Guards there. Skidding to the side, a retreat was made to the nearest window, where hovering Pegasi, and the Crystal Princess watched. With one final, desperate leap, a mad dash for the remaining door was met with a light purple Unicorn igniting her own blue aura, alongside the Elements and orange Pegasus Captain.

“Surrender, pony,” announced Princess Celestia, “Remove your cloak, and lay down whatever weapons you have. Identify yourself. Your Princesses command you.”

“We suspected somepony would come back to find what the results were,” Twilight stated, “since there was no other way of informing Fizzlepop’s aggressors what decision was made.”

“We set up the ruse that somepony among us was being admitted for intensive treatment,” added Luna. “Now tell us who you are, and whom you follow.”

“I-I don’t follow anypony,” stammered a stallion’s voice from under the hood, “That is, I only did what was asked of me. To make the delivery, and return to find out what flower was missing past sundown. I don’t know who made the request, I swear.”

“Lieutenant,” sternly spoke Captain Sentry, though in slight shock. “Lieutenant, is that you?”

Fluttering her eyes open to the sudden jolt, the little filly caught a glimpse of a departing pony in their stopped train.

“Zecora,” she asked, “Miss Zecora, is that-”

“Shh,” a soft voice was followed by a hoof to her muzzle, “Now’s no time to waste good sleep. Rest now, dear Dinky, with dreams soft and deep.”

Watching the blurred tan of Zecora’s cloak brush against the seats, she felt her eyes shut once more into slumber, and her Mom lift her up between those grey, secure wings.

"What's this," he asked upon seeing the bottle of dark red liquid through the cell bars.

"A peace offering," said the stallion, "For the night I viciously attacked you."

"And for my cruelty towards you, as your senior officer," the mare joined, placing it into the cell. "Our humble apologies come with it."

"Ha," he chuckled beneath the casts and bandages, "I remember what you told me, pony. How you were my moment of reckoning, after I asked what you were. I never felt so afraid, since my first meeting with my King. And you, Lieutenant. Just showing everyone who questioned you their place? You both did nothing I wouldn't have done. You even tempt me with a poisoned bottle, to put me out of my misery."

"Whether or not you doubt the sincerity of our offer is up to you," spoke the stallion, while holding the mare back. "Just know we wish you the best, from now on. And that you have a steady rest and recovery. Goodnight, Sergeant."

As the violet Unicorn used her static aura to push the wheelchair by the gold stallion's head-tilt, they heard a bellow from behind.

"Storm King. That's Storm King, to you! My respect to my enemies doesn't mean I'll tolerate impunity from you, miserable, little ponies! EVER! We'll meet again, ponies! You'll see! YOU'LL SEE!"

“Oh, boy,” he moaned from under his insulated covers, then squirmed on the comfortable mattress beneath him. “What a nap.”

“More like a nice, long sleep.” The low, even voice of a stallion was heard over him, as the young Dragon squinted the lids of reptilian pupils to open. He gradually saw the smiling snout of a gold-yellow pony, with red sunglasses resting upon it.

“Wha-What happened?”

“They caught him. Last night. The pony who sent the vase of flowers with the note. The vase was actually poisoned, not the juice. Seems you were more in need of rest, than anyone expected. With everything that’s happened lately, and given your age, that’s understandable.”

“Who,” Spike muttered, rubbing his eyes, “Who was it?”

“A Pegasus lieutenant, who claimed he was acting by anonymous instructions,” answered Daredevil, “Lance Alot. He also claimed that he was bribed in doing so, unaware until the scrambling security. Received funds to repair any damaged home in Canterlot he chose. He sent them to Twilight’s parents, for sheltering him and other ponies during the attack. The same amount he specified was found in their account this morning, supporting that. No threat was delivered after sundown. It was all a diversion.”

“For what?”

“The conspirators under Horizon Rider and Midnight Sky left that hideout Mistmane and I found. It was empty, by the time Celestia went back to examine it. Most likely they teleported out of the building, and took a train out of Canterlot with other visiting ponies for the Festival. No idea which train they took, if not more. Notices have been sent to be on the lookout for ponies matching Miss Sky and Miss Zecora’s descriptions also.”

“You…You really think she’d do it, though? I mean, that Zecora would do something like that?”

“I’ve never met her,” the stallion shook his head, “but from what I can tell of your friend, there’s a great deal of questions that need answered. Since she’s such an expert in plants, potions and herbs.”

“But it’s not her,” Spike nearly shouted, “It can’t be her! She’s such a good pony, and a great friend! No…Nopony would do something like that. Nopony would do something very, very bad, if…if they’re really good...right?”

Seeing the pursed lips from Daredevil’s muzzle, and hitched breath from the snout, Spike wondered what the stallion was going to say to that.

“Is this about what you saw the other night, also?”

“Wha-I-I-Well, uh, I…what?”

“Spike,” he gently stated, resting a hoof onto the bed, “I can’t imagine what it must’ve been like for you to see someone you knew and trusted to act so harshly, the way I did to Sergeant Dis. It must really hurt to know that someone that does some good things, does some very bad things too.”

“I just…I don’t understand,” he quivered back, “In those comic books I read, and what Twilight and the others do, they always do the right thing. The heroes they…they always do good things for others. Always win, and never lose! Sure, they got problems and stuff, but they never went and did something bad because of those problems. And you did stuff that are really heroic and cool! But also stuff that I’ve seen and read only bad guys do. I-I mean, did you really like doing that to him? Yeah, he did some really bad stuff, but…but you’re not like him, are you?”

“I don’t want to be,” he said plainly, “But at the spur of the moment, I feel this urge and desire to go after someone who does those things, like the one who took away my Dad. At first, it…it does feel good to me. Satisfying and addictive, even. To inflict my own punishment on guys like that. But then I realize…how low and cruel it was. How I’ve become like them. And especially now, knowing how much that hurt you too. And for that, I’m truly, heartily sorry.”

“So…what does that make you?”

“To be honest, I’m not sure. Somewhere in between. In truth, that’s where so many reside. Some more than others, including our friends. They make some choices they regret during their regular lives like everyone else, I’m sure. But the important thing is how they learn, grow, and move forward from that. Take a new chance to be better. Like what I hope I’m doing also.”

“But what about me? I don’t know who my parents were, like how you didn’t know your Mom. I’m an orphan, just like you. Does that mean I’ll grow up like that, too?”

“Were. You were an orphan, once. Not anymore. A new family found you, and took you as one of their own. The man I wanted to be family for me rejected me, and taught me how I didn’t need a couple strangers to give me some sense of worth.”

“But…was he right?”

“In a way, yes. I found my own purpose by using the skills he taught me to control and channel. But at the same time, I felt I was better off without anyone in my personal life, and vice versa. Cutting all my ties to those dearest to me, I did exactly what my Mom did after I was born, and when she was my caretaker. I became like him, wandered off, and repeated the sins of my parents. But you? You’ve got everything needed to be something far more than I can ever hope to be. And from what I’ve heard in the Empire, you already are.”

“You…” sniffling with tears flowing freely, Spike asked, “You really think so?”

“Know so.” Leaping up to wrap his scaly arms around the blind stallion, Spike never felt better.

“Thanks, Daredev- I mean, Matt. And, I forgive you.”

“You’re welcome, Spike. And, thank you.”

“You know,” he added, after departing from the embrace and drying his eyes, “Shining and Cadence were right about you. You can make for another great brother.”

“Well, for starters,” huffed Matt sheepishly, “even if that’s informal, that’s got to be decided by your whole family. Especially your current, legal guardian.”

“Where is Twilight, anyway? And everypony else?”

“For the past two minutes, just outside the door. Been waiting for the right time to come in.”

“Sheesh,” grunted a tearied blue Pegasus, bashful at being discovered, “Really need to get used to that.”

“Feeling’s mutual, darling.” The white Unicorn barely held firm.

The other mares came in with similar demeanors, most especially Twilight, as they all made their entrance.

"I'm sorry for bringing up your past like that," she offered, "I was just so flustered, I didn't realize how bothered I was about Spike's feelings lately."

"You were right though. I should've cleared his idea with you first. Especially since I didn't know it, myself."

"Forgive me?"

"Yes. And I hope you do the same for me." Reaching for the chair-bound pony, Twilight joined in another hug with Spike, as did Cadence, then everypony else.

"Yes, I do. And I think Spike, Cadence and Shining are on to something."

"And Velvet and Nightlight would be more than thrilled," joined Cadence, "After they heard about you saving their grandfilly also, they said they would've taken you in in a heartbeat."

"That is, of course," Twilight stated with hesitation, "if you'd like to consider us as such. Your home, away from home. Until we find a way to get you back."

With those words, departing from the excessively large group hug, Matthew shook his head in mirth. "With that kind of offer, how can I refuse? Best, adopted, sister friends, forever?"

"You bet, B.A.B.B.F.F.!"

"Welcome to the family, Mattie," cheered Cadence, as they all tearfully made another deep and tender embrace.

"Best, avocado, big, brother friend, forever," said Spike, prompting greater joy across the room.

His Castle

Strolling down the road, grazing her hoof against it, she remained deep in silent thought. She had been pondering over the events of the past two days and nights, as they made their way to the station. The same morning they shared that warm hug with their newest friends, they now headed out to say their goodbyes until next time, with Fizzlepop choosing to rest some more after last night. There was little the mare could take in from her surroundings, while she retreated deeply into her own thoughts and feelings. Thankfully, not so much in somber.

“I’m glad you’re coming with us to visit,” she heard Cadence say to Mistress Velvet and Mister Nightlight.

“Well,” chuckled the grey mare, “why wouldn’t we? With our house just getting repairs done, and not with those bribery bits, this is the best excuse for us to come see our precious, little Shiny, and little Flurry.”

“It’s also a nice way to unwind from the whole attack,” said her blue husband, “But yeah, we need to get as much time as possible to check up on all our family. We’ll be heading down to visit Twilie, next week.”

“I’m just happy to know you’ll be fine, now that everything can settle down,” their daughter spoke up from beside the three.

“And we’ll also get to thank the stallion who helped make that happen,” Velvet cheered, as she wrapped her hooves around the Crystal Pony in tow, but with gentle affection. “First our grandfilly, then our two, special girls, then me and another pony. I hope Shining picks up the slack and saves you, in return.”

“Believe me,” Matt spoke in kind, “With how much he and Cadence helped in providing me for a good start, I considered myself indebted to them. Deeply, in fact.”

“Not anymore,” she chimed further in her motherly embrace, “After hearing the news that our little ones agreed to give you a second home, we’ll just have to spend time getting to know you as well as they did.”

“I’d strongly advise that you take your time." His wary tone matched everypony’s shared glances. “I know Twilight, Cadence and the others found it taxing, after a single day and night.”

“Um,” the Pegasus muttered, “excuse me?”

“Agreed,” the lavender Alicorn sharply spoke, “Start by pacing yourselves with Spike. He could use the company.”

“Well,” shrugged the Dragon, trying to show a brave face, “I guess that’d be okay.”

“Besides,” Twilight continued, “we wouldn’t want Matt having to repeat himself so much.”

“Um, pardon me…”

“They raise a fair point,” Nightlight replied, “We should help Spike out with that, and take it one step at a time.”

“I suppose,” his wife conceded, “But we’ve got a whole week there, and some time in Ponyville. So that’d be perfect, for us.”

“If I could have a quick minute…”

“I sent a message to fill Shining in also,” nodded Cadence, “But Starlight and I can get you started, when we arrive.”

“And I can stick around for the details this time,” offered the blind stallion, as he gestured Starlight to release his wheelchair and go ahead.

“Maybe for some,” the rose Alicorn remarked, “But I had Shining set up a meeting with Cinch tomorrow, after the healing process.”

“Very well,” he nodded. “Listen, you all wait at the station and I’ll rejoin you. There’s one, last order of business to take care of.”

“Sure,” said Cadence, “Take your time.”

She was grateful for his awareness of her attempts. So while she watched her friends join Twilight and Spike’s folks, the yellow Pegasus stood still beside the chair-bound pony. But she stared at the pavement more so, and Fluttershy was still not sure what to say.

His Castle

“Well, um,” she started, “I hope you have a nice, safe trip.”

“Thank you,” he said, turning his head towards her. “I hope you do well going back, also.”

“Thanks, and,” reassured, she continued, “I just want you to know that...after everything we’ve seen and were told, I’ve been wondering how to handle it. At first, I just thought about how it would’ve been better to stay in Canterlot to help you and Cadence, because I thought how I wasn’t much help for Twilight.”

“You needed to stay with the other Elements,” he said, “And never underestimate how helpful you are just by being with them.”

“I know that now. But I also realized, after hearing what you told Spike...I’m now positive that I can trust you fully. Because you’re right to admit that how you acted with friends and enemies affected both parts of your life. And that you’re willing to trust us coming in to help with that. I know your Dad, Foggy, Karen and the rest would be very proud of you. Because I am, too. We all are.”

“Again, thanks,” he smiled in comfort, “Just hope I won’t let you all down again, and so soon.”

“I know admitting that is the first step in helping to avoid it. I’d say you’re off to a good start.” Then leaning in for a final hug, she stated lastly, “And I think you’re a really good guy, too.”

“My fellow ponies,” announced Cadence, standing between Matt and the Crystal Heart. “It is with a sincere, and joyful heart to present to you our newest hero in the Empire. Crystal Pony Daredevil offered his gifts and talents, time and energy, life and limb, for the safety of Equestria, as well as your Princess. Having sustained severe injuries as a result, my husband and I ask that you please send forth your love, so that the Crystal Heart may heal our brother pony from his wounds.”

Upon that announcement, he felt it. A torrent of pure energy not sensed, but caressed the core of his being. The wave was directed towards the beating gemstone by the gathered populace. Instantaneously, the crevices and cracks under the bandages and on his temple were filled. Renewed with an even more solid substance than what was there before. He could sense his physical form even more refined, as it did after Dash’s hearing, imagining himself as transparent as the precious stones beneath and all around.

The communion of such ordinary, yet wondrous ponies of solid rock uniting as one, pulsating, living heart, brought something even he never thought possible to travel through anyone. A miracle, beyond his belief. It was not only his transformed figure that was affected, but he felt his spirit soar with rekindled vigor, as well as a deep sense of peace in his heart and mind. But most importantly, he could pick up that same, genuine joy that sparked from cheering ponies around him, most especially those looking at him. He could think of only giving thanks. Turning his spectacled eyes toward his new friends, he smiled gently.

The response he received was their approach to him, the Unicorn stallion rushing to offer brotherly affection first.

“You did good, Matt,” Shining said into his ear, proud moisture sensed near the eyes. “I owe you, big time.”

“You owe me nothing,” he whispered back, “This moment, alone, is beyond any measure, or form of wealth.”

“That, I can believe.” They shared a laugh at that.

“Counselor Daredevil,” her voice resonated against the walls of the council chamber, “allow me to express my sincere pleasure in seeing you well again.”

“Thank you, Miss Cinch,” he nodded, as he walked to the seat across from her, “I trust you’re still in good health.”

“Indeed, thanks. And Miss Glimmer, welcome back to you also.”

“Thanks,” she answered warmly, as the mare took the chair next to him. “Good to be back. Glad to know you’re doing well, too.”

“Thank you, as I’m pleased to know all is well for you since our last meeting.”

“Councilpony Cinch, I’d like to get to the point.” Firmly, though friendly, Shining Armor spoke from beside the two, “Since you’re responsible for the internal affairs of the Empire, we need to officially tell you about Daredevil’s…extracurricular activities.”

“Given the recent news received from Canterlot, I’d say that’s appropriate Your Highness.” With that, Shining Armor gave Abacus Cinch a brief, and thorough summary of Daredevil's abilities and martial training, with Matt giving a few details to elaborate or demonstrate.

“Princess Cadence and I have established a way to help him in using his other talents, when the time comes. With Starlight Glimmer’s help, and a guardspony tasked with surveillance, we personally hope to ensure any avoidable violence doesn’t happen in the Crystal Empire, like with Midnight Rider.”

“Those measures are well and good, Your Highness, and I approve of such. But there’s another condition I feel must be added. Not only will I be informed of the counselor’s actions alongside you both, but I must also share the authority to enforce the Codex, should I deem it necessary to do so. Even though the investigation for the Amulet and Horizon Rider remains independent, as stated in my last meeting with him and Miss Glimmer, I must still view any of his activities outside his firm to be potential infractions.

And Counselor, please don't take this the wrong way, but I must hold on to my reservations on this matter. I'm well aware of your lack of enrollment to the Manehatten Academy, and were an unknown until recently, while also proficient in your practice. There's much left to be explained about you, despite the Royals' and the Elements' openness to trust you. Should there be a moment when domestic stability is in any way threatened, with you somehow involved, I could no longer, in good conscience, simply look past the law.”

"Understood, Miss Cinch," he nodded, "I'd expect nothing less from a responsible, and respectable pony, such as yourself."

“And we understand, and respect your additional request, Cinch," added Shining, "I’ll share it with Princess Cadence to discuss, before our meeting with the Council tomorrow.”

“Very well. Now, if there’s nothing further to discuss, I ask that I may take my leave, Prince Armor.”

“Of course. Conference adjourned.”

“So, I just have one more question for now.”

“Feel free, Missus Velvet,” replied Matt, as all seven made their way to his apartment building.

“Oh, just Velvet’s okay. Again. But I’m really curious. Is the staff only just for the whole, blind-pony appearance? Or there’s more to it?”

“Well actually, I’ve installed a mini-tape recorder and microphone under the titanium surface. It's virtually impenetrable, and shock absorbent. As for appearances, I’d like to think it’s my way of showing how even my enhanced senses have their limits. Also helps to send vibrations in the direct area, for optimal clarity.”

“Ooh, I know our Twilight would love to know more about that,” she said in awe. Finding the key to unlock the establishment, he simply inserted it to the lock and turned. He detected the three envelopes before him as he opened the door. Picking them up, he stood aside to let in Starlight, Shining, Cadence and Flurry, and the Unicorn grandparents.

“Here, I’ll take those.” Passing them to Starlight’s receiving aura, Matt decided to move towards his desk and place his belongings into the drawer.

“But I'd appreciate it if you didn't bring too much attention towards my origins. Don’t want to be in the spotlight for scrupulous study.”

“Don’t worry, Matt,” smiled Cadence with assurance, “We’ll keep everything else from leaving our inner circle. And I’m sure Twilight and the others would agree.”

“Thank you.”

“It’s our pleasure, pal,” said Shining in kind. “But Cadence and I agree that the whole, armored-blind-ninja thing should only be for an extremely terrible crisis, like the Storm King.”

“In that case,” he stated, tilting his head with twitched ear towards the window, “better get someone two blocks east from here. Potential mugger waiting for a pony nearby.”

“I’ll alert the Guards.” With constant flashes of energy, Shining’s horn sent a coded beacon through the crystal walls, for an armored pony to easily spot.

“Hopefully a response will be made before anything bad happens,” said Starlight, as she opened the first letter. “First moon’s rent and utilities. This is the first moon. Oh, some sort of receipt.”

“With something like that in Canterlot,” said Nightlight, “Crime rates would be nonexistent.”

“No place is perfect,” commented the Crystal stallion. “Yes crimes are far less frequent compared to my city, but I still had to stop four muggings and a robbery the week preparing for Dash’s trial. Not including Fluttershy's attack.”

“Cinch was wondering about the lack of reports made that week,” said Cadence, “But I believe simple observe-and-report would be best for now, since she insists further involvement in the matter.”

“Then that’s another good reason why I’m here,” said the studious mare, reading the second letter. “Here's the Manehatten Academy's courses for you. We can work on getting the materials for them today."

"You're studying by mail from Manehatten," asked Nightlight.

"As far as ponies know," Matt answered, "Cinch aside, I'm just a Crystal Pony who went to Manehatten to get his degree, before starting back here. Need to make sure that's legitimate. Granted, it seems odd for one of their own to study law abroad, but I'll just explain it as my way of learning how much the world outside the Empire's changed."

"Makes sense," nodded Velvet, as she received Flurry into her eager magic, "But you still have to know more about the laws here, right?"

"Out of necessity, yes."

"Great reason, number three," perked Starlight again.

"But you're sure about this," said Shining, "Keeping your cover with a lie like that?"

"For now, until further notice, I think so."

"Just know that even though we respect your wish to avoid speculation and unwanted attention," Cadence spoke, "we strongly feel you should find a way of opening yourself up about this to others. At the right time, of course."

"But no matter what," added Shining, "we'll support you as best as we can."

"Thanks. Like with you and my secrets, I'll do my best."

"Okay," Starlight spoke on, reading the third letter, "This one just came in today. A mare by the name of Sapphire Aurora, seeking legal advice about a landlord’s poorly installed and maintained plumbing in her and her sister's building.”

“I know that name,” said Cadence, “She manages the Northern Lights Foster Home with her sister, Ruby Borealis. They opened the place just after the Empire’s return, for the foals who lost their parents during Sombra’s takeover.”

"What else does it say," asked Matt.

Reading further, the bright purple mare stated, "That the pipes were easily corroded, and then the whole building flooded, forcing them all to take other lodgings during repairs. The landlord had new pipes installed, but those were quickly contaminated, making many of them very sick. The landlord didn't charge them for rent in that time, but no compensation was made for their damaged goods, or medical needs. Their policy for the coverages hasn't been instated yet."

The smell of new, fresh finish emanated from the wooden floors to indicate where the repairs had been made. But brushing his hoof against the walls, he could easily pick up the small scratches, nail holes and indents where furniture and other personal belongings once stood. Beds, dressers, tables, toy chests, bookshelves, cupboards. They were trying to make do with whatever else they could salvage here. They even accepted a few donations from fellow neighbors.

“We’ve been waiting on that insurance policy to kick in,” came Miss Aurora’s voice, “But like most new things being placed in the Empire after a millennium, we’re all still getting used to them. Takes time to establish old habits with new ideas. You can probably relate, since you studied in Manehatten.”

“Yes, I can sympathize," he nodded, as they strolled down the hallway of numerous doors.

“So the main problem becomes what to do when we still don’t have the means to rebuild,” the Crystal mare spoke on, guiding him, “I mean, Ruby and I don’t want to shift blame and point hooves at others for our problems. But…we feel like this is different.”

“It can feel that way, when we’re on the receiving end,” said Matt, “But there’s also a time to acknowledge responsibility for damage done, especially when that’s made on others less fortunate than ourselves.”

“Exactly. This isn’t about me and my sister, but making sure we give these little ponies a place to wait for a new family. We’re in no condition to make that happen, ourselves. And donations only get us so far. The whole Empire’s struggling to recover still. The Equestria Games boosted the economy somewhat, but our communities are still trying to help each other back up. And we can’t have Royal grants as a crutch forever, you know. Even they are also hard to attain, and with the Princess’ seal of approval.”

“Have you spoken with other ponies under Mister Brimstone’s lease?”

“No, but I’ve heard of another who used the same products for her own estate.”

Upon opening the furthest door at the end, she allowed the stallion to enter. He could hear them from his apartment, and more so when he knocked on the door. The familiar sounds and smells returned to his ears and snout, as the prancing clippity-clips of tiny hooves resonated into his staff. Some were chasing each other with balls and toys, others were drawing and painting, and a few were with Cadence and Starlight having books before them.

“I know that look,” Aurora said, shaking him from his stern demeanor, “You’ve been in here, before. This environment, I mean.”

“Tinted glasses aren’t much help with emotions, are they,” he smirked back. His voice seemed to catch most foals’ attention, as they stopped to look at the newcomer by the playroom door.

Hearing that one approached him, he tilted his head downward. “Hi, there. I’m Daredevil. What’s your name?”

“Gem Brook,” the filly lowly replied.

“Well, it’s very nice to meet you, Gem Brook.” He then lowered his staff to lay gently in front of her. "You sound like a very nice, young mare."

“Thanks. You really can’t see?” Her lisp came out where baby teeth once were.

“My eyes don’t work, no. But I can hear your voice, and your steps. I can also smell you were playing with a bunch of flowers outside.” Bopping where he found her snout, she giggled in response. "I can also feel that."

“I was in the garden with Miss Ruby! Miss Ruby’s still a little tired, so Miss Saphie said we can help her with the flowers.”

“That’s very nice of you to help, Gem. I know Miss Ruby and Saphie are happy to have you help them.”

“Are you here to help them, too?”

“Yeah, I’m here to help as best I can.”

“Then that means they’ll be even more happier!” Sensing the lifted smiles from the three mares in the room, he made one of his own.

“I hope so.”

Whack-Smack! Boom-bop-POW!

“How long’s he been in there,” Cadence’s voice echoed across the hall.

“Just an hour, now,” repied Shining’s, “Told him I could get him in the training room to help let off steam.” Pom! Pom!“Guess he took that to heart. Think it has to do with the orphanage he visited? Bringing back old memories?” Boom-Boom!

“Maybe even getting over the attack also. Three days, and that night might be affecting him still. I’d like to ask him, but…. He wasn’t this way when Sunburst mentioned his upbringing, though. Remember?” Bang! Pop!

”No, but that doesn’t mean actually going back to a place like that helps either.” Smack-Poom! “You probably don’t need to ask, either. Probably telling us that, right now.”

“I realize that, but just letting us know this way can’t be healthy for anypony. Or human.” Boom! Boom! Pom-Pop! POW! Pssssssssh… “Or the equipment.”

Heaving sharp breaths from the outburst, he heard the sand hiss out of the bag, and felt it touch the crystal floor.

“I’ll get somepony to replace that in the morning,” answered Shining Armor.

“And I believe we're still getting over the attack, ourselves,” Cadence spoke on.

“You’re telling me.” Matt could only huff at his oblivious response. “And here I was, with Flurry, keeping everything together here, while also being worried about what might’ve happened to yo-” The soft, but tender contact silenced Shining’s rant. It was shortly followed by a deep, warm embrace and nuzzle, alleviating that stress both recently held. As they departed while leaning on each other, and her wing draping over him, Matt could only smile at their blessings. But at the same time, he picked up on his own dread and sorrow returning. And for one, in particular.

"Thought I'd find you here," he recalled her saying, her ring-hand touching his bruised knuckles. "You know, when you first showed me this place, I thought it's where Foggy got his nickname. But you said that's from your days as his roommate. Living foghorn."

"He'd never been to Fogwell's Gym before he knew me," he said, "Even then, Foggy seldom did."

"Must be nice to find someplace to reconnect with your Dad, though."

At the subject change, he sighed. "You were right to be worried. That I might've been obsessed over Karen, still. Sorry for not giving you enough, and holding back."

"But I know better, now." She then held his hand tightly. "And I'm sorry I doubted you. I shouldn't have. No reason to be. You made it very clear you were willing to take another chance at being vulnerable like that again. That takes a lot of time, patience and guts for anyone. And you chose to do that with me. The actual blind one, here."

"I'd say you've had it rougher that I did. So I have no reason to be afraid of that, either."

"I doubt getting toxic waste dumped in your eyes was having it easy. That's just the tip of your baggage iceberg."

"Least I got something to compensate for that."

"Well, another few months," she beamed while touching his forehead with hers, "I know we'll both have something way more than any compensation."

"Thank you. For everything." But then he departed from his memory, as a Unicorn mare retreated down the hallway. Failing to recognize the unique energy from Starlight or Shining's Mom, he listened intently to the departing hooves that clippity-clopped away, and out into the streets. But since no signs of a threat were detected, he decided it best to inform the others tomorrow, as he moved on to another part of the gym. With the punching bag behind him obsolete, Matthew went to the nearest bar for pull-ups.

According to Cadence and Shining, there was no need to worry about an intruder last night. They said how they were aware of another Unicorn's presence, but that was a separate matter that they felt was outside their bounds of revelation. Much like himself. Making him even more curious, Matt remained vigilant whenever he was outside his apartment and office, and asked Starlight to keep a sharp eye as well. When she expressed the same level of wonderment, he answered truthfully that he also did not know. So, they decided to move on with their case as calmly, though tensely, as possible.

After today’s meeting shared with Brimstone and his attorney, no conditions were accepted by either side. Not even aid in getting the insurance instated more quickly. So, the civil dispute had to be settled in court five days from now. Their first destination was the fellow pony mentioned by Miss Aurora, who happened to be an acquaintance of theirs already.

“And you’re sure it was the same two companies as Mister Brimstone,” he asked her.

“Yes, Counselor,” nodded Madame Nephrita, as Jadis approached with a written parchment, “I’m well acquainted with Master Brimstone, and had been informed he experienced recent troubles of the same nature with his loaned establishments. I wrote to him with my friendly advice in remedying that, and made a copy of the letter to keep records.”

As Starlight received the paper from the butler, she said, “It’s dated three moons ago.”

“The water pressure from snowmelt in the Frozen North is far, too great,” the Crystal mistress explained to her, “These Equestrian pipelines sent to upgrade our infrastructure are not as durable. And the mineral deposits in the water quickly corrode the filters, rendering them hazardous. The minerals we ponies have drunk for ages, but it’s the rust of the delicate pipes that contaminated the water.”

“Did you give the names of those companies,” he asked.

“Gentle Flow’s & Bros.,” read Starlight aloud, “and Crystal-Equestria Sinks, Inc.”

“I sent a similar letter to the Crystal Royals,” Nephrita continued, “which prompted an inspection, and was recently proclaimed.”

It was then Matt fought to tilt his head the same as his flicked ears. “Thank you for your time, Madame. May we keep this copy for further study?”

“Of course, and it’s no trouble at all. Though I do hope you both return under friendlier circumstances, next time.”

“We hope so too,” nodded Starlight, “Thanks, again.”

"Always a pleasure."

As they made their way to the main doors, he turned to whisper, “Teleport like you’re looking for the nearest facilities. Next floor, second door on the right. Confrontation that’s getting out of control.”

“I’ll just make sure somepony hears it too.”

"Maid, three doors down." Poof.

“Okay,” said the light purple mare, “just got back from Red Quartz. He said Brimstone had the pipes installed last moon. Neither companies were the seller.”

“That makes it four leased properties after Northern Lights’ installation, either by replacement or newly placed pipes.”

“And those coincide with the proclaimed Royal Inspection,” nodded Starlight, “And that’s all the properties that Brimstone possesses. Would that be enough?”

“I believe we’re more than capable of presenting our case. We still need to get things organized and ready for the hearing.”

“Cadence and Shining might be busy tomorrow,” she shrugged, “But I can ask Velvet and Nightlight to come over, while watching Flurry. Sunburst too, if he’s available.”

“That’d be fine. Very good. With that, I think we can call it a day.”

“Want me to wait for you to get ready again?”

“No, thanks. I’ll meet you back at the Palace. A good stroll helps to stretch.”

“Okay. I’ll see you, in a bit.” Pling. With that, Matthew picked up the documents and folders, along with his Bridle typewriter and copies, and neatly set them into their proper drawers and places. Removing his tinted glasses, he heaved a sigh of satisfaction. These last four days proved to be fruitful, invigorating, and gratifying. With Starlight as his spotter, and the surveying guard close by, he has stayed focus on the case more than anything else. Aside from the nightly dinners with the Royal Family and Starlight’s friend, of course. He no longer found them as a way to express gratitude, now that they took him as their own. Unofficial and temporary, yes, but this was more than he could ever have imagined, let alone described.

Morning and evening visits to the training grounds helped him also. While finding a lesser, though better outlet, he also kept up with his training and exercise needed to stay fit. Like with Canterlot, anything could happen on short notice. And far less equipment was damaged than the first night. It was safe to assume his mood has more than improved.

Taking off the business attire worn today, he laid them onto the bed for later storage, and simply sat down in reprieve. Yes, there were a few moments he needed to stop and take deep breaths from hearing more trouble and suffering, however seldom it was. But that was as far as it had gone. Even a few moments of miscommunication, confusion and frustrating exchanges happened here and there, but that sense of normality was preferred to what he had been used to. This domain was a far cry from what he knew, but it still gave him a sense of belonging and security. And it was his domain. His establishment, granted by his own good deeds. His only regret was not having Foggy and her into th-

“Who’s there?” he sharply rose from his haunches, raising his staff at the ready.

“The blind stallion who knows all around him,” echoed a female voice, with an surprisingly giddy tone. Throughout his apartment, he could sense the energy of that Unicorn mare, alongside her voice. “This is most certainly something to behold!”

“It’s you, isn’t it? I sensed you at the training gym, four nights ago.”

“Apologies, I was simply too curious about you,” was her sheepish response. “And I apologize also for this intrusion, but we must keep our location hidden for the time being.”

“You're probably outside city limits, out of my senses’ range.”

“Your detection is superlative, to say the least. But not so. That’s all we can share with you, for now.”

“So you go through all this trouble to contact me from far off. Why? And you said ‘we.’ Who else is with you? You never answered my first question, either.”

“All answers shall be granted unto you, in due time.” The teasing smile could be heard in that tone even more. “For now, know that we have watched and listened, and hope to know more about you, should you accept our offer.”

“Even if I do, what else would you want to know that you haven’t already?” He examined warily his surroundings, wondering what they knew about him now, and what they had in mind for him.

“Nothing of consequence, I assure you. Simple, trivial things to some, yet most endearing to others. Such as, who is she? The alien female you imagined? It was clearly a remembrance of her, but who is she? What is she?”

“Answers will be given, in due time,” he lightly growled back, prompting a giggle from the undetected Unicorn.

“Oh, you speak as though you were he! Oops, apologies. Too much shared. I must depart. But know we keep you under our vigilance. Pleasant evening to you!”

“If this is Luna’s – or someone's idea of-” He was unable to finish, as the energy around him suddenly returned to standard levels. Her unique signature gone, in the blink of an eye.

As usual, the meal brought to them proved to be more than exceptional. As for the company shared, nothing seemed out of place about them either. The occasional kiss between the Royal Couple, the laughter and small talk with Glimmer, Sunburst and Shining’s parents, their turns of holding and playing with Flurry all felt genuine. No inner tension concealed by them, in any way. No foreign energy signatures in the vicinity. There was nothing to be alerted about, so he had no reason to make himself wary of such, nor them. On this night, as with the others, he intended to cherish the moments shared by those more than willing to do so with him.

“Everything okay, Mattie,” came Cadence’s voice, slightly concerned by his silence.

“Yeah,” he nodded, smiling, “Sorry, just…trying to get things together.”

“For the case, you mean,” asked Velvet, “Getting things organized and rehearsed, that kind of thing?”

“Yes, Velvet, that also,” he answered half-honestly. After he and Starlight spoke about their daily progress with her and Nightlight, he could tell how eager she was to learn more about his work, which seemed odd, yet quaint also.

“Oh, I look forward to being a part of that, tomorrow,” she squeaked with glee, “I’m your witnesses. And Sunburst and Starlight for the defense team and judge, right? Nightlight’s the defendant. But, what about the jury?”

He chuckled at her enthusiasm, “It doesn’t necessarily have to be-”

“We could ask Ruby and Sapphire to bring the foals over to watch,” Starlight offered, “That’d be a great experience for them.”

“Oh, indeed it would,” beamed her Unicorn friend, “It might also inspire them to have dreams and ambitions during their own stages in life. Given Mister Murdock’s shared background, as well.”

“That definitely sounds like a great idea,” said Cadence in kind, “And I know Flurry would love to meet other colts and fillies.”

Smirking, he conceded, "Well, I don-"

“Webv-phfffff!” Bling. As she heard her name, the Alicorn infant screamed in laughter, and turned to face Matt. He picked up on her bursting horn, before that same energy enveloped his glasses.

“Oh, Flurry,” said Shining, “What did we talk about? If you want to see somepony's-”

“Don’t worry, Shining,” Matt spoke, keeping a firm grip onto them, “I’ve got this.”

“Aaahh!" Playing a gentle tug-o-war with the little one, Flurry grew even more excited by the game. So much so, that she flapped off of Nightwing’s seat, hovered across the table, and wrapped her tiny hooves around his muzzle and neck. At that, he put down the red glasses, and held her close for a playful nuzzle at the snout. “Agh-hee-he-heh!”

“Oh, look,” the grandmother awed, “Such a natural.”

“Probably with another’s, sure,” he teased back, “Just something I developed, growing up.”

“Which makes us wonder, all the more, why you haven’t been hitched yet,” said the grandfather, prompting him to chuckle awkwardly.

“Another story, for another time. Not sure you’re quite there, yet.”

“Oh, right,” Velvet said, “You know, we've past the part where you met that spider…ling, fella. And started dealing with that awful Kingpin.”

“Well, for a quick preview,” he shrugged, while bouncing Flurry on his seat, “I say it’s safe to introduce you to Elektra.”

“Who’s that,” asked Sunburst.

“An assassin Fisk hired for Foggy,” he answered, anticipating even more shocked gasps, “And my first love interest.”

“Egh?” And with that, as Flurry wondered about her grandparents’ gawking stares, he passed her back to her mother.

“Oh,” Velvet shook excitedly, “I can hardly wait for tomorrow’s story time! After the staged trial!”

Laughing at her remark, both Cadence and Shining emitted sighs of relief to loosen their shoulders, showing appreciation for how he handled it.

“Mares and gentlestallions of the jury,” he began, facing the seated foals who watched him count his steps, “It has come to our attention that a great wrong must be set right. As you will soon be made aware, Mister Brimstone, despite his best efforts, failed to take into account all variables into installing plumbing, which sadly brought the Northern Lights Foster Home terrible damage, and illness toward its inhabitants.”

“What’s…inhab-in-habits?”

“Questions when he’s finished, okay,” gleamed Miss Borealis to the filly in her lap.

Smiling at the innocent youth before him, he continued, “But to further add to this failure, Mister Brimstone refused to make adequate compensation. And you, members of the jury, will find him the responsible cause for such damage.”

“Comp-comp-pansy?”

He had spent his rehearsal letting Velvet, Sunburst, Starlight and Nightlight respond to his enquiries, reading from notes and facts Starlight had prepared. Sometimes, they would pause to allow for questions from the little ones also. Then, when the time came for him to call on the defendant, he began to speak further. “I’d like to ask you first, Mister Brimstone, who your source was in finding Gentle Flow’s and Crystal-Equestria Sinks-?”

As Nightlight answered, he tilted his head towards a new sound instead. Paying no heed to anything else in the Palace nursery they were in, he began to smash and crumble the Bridle notes he was using on the floor.

“Matt! Matt!” Shaking him from his stupor was Starlight’s low whisper. “You’re doing it again! What’s wrong, now?”

Beckoning her with his staff, he waited as everypony else looked on with slight unease. Into her arriving ear, he softly answered, “Mare and filly. Four blocks, north-northwest. Hurry.”

“Sorry, everypony,” she spoke to all, “We forgot one, little thing, but you can keep going. Be right back!” Poff-bling! Taking a deep breath, he readjusted his tie, and waited until the guard Glimmer sent had arrived. Being his first one in the area, and despite how often he heard it before, it sickened him still.

Fighting not to grimace at the stallion’s smell, Matthew carried on. “Mister Brimstone…”

Placing the notes onto the table before Starlight, he continued, “In your professional opinion, were they good for the Northern Lights Foster Home?”

“It was a terrible chain of events and circumstances,” responded the pony in the stand, “All sympathies go out to them.”

“Were you not aware of the snowmelt’s pressure being too great for those pipes, and the minerals that could easily corrode them would render a health hazard?”

“Objection,” spoke Brimstone’s representative, his voice reverberating off the amphitheater.

“I’ll rephrase,” Matt said, after making him chomp his bit, “What was it about those two pipelines that were appeasing?”

“Gentle offered thorough services,” Brimstone replied, “proficient, careful, yet also diligent. Same with Sinks, Inc. Quick, and simple installments.”

“More than half the usual price, as well? Not to mention fewer wages from the pocket book, since it’s hourly?”

“With five properties leased, while also running my lava-collected pressurizing business, funds were tightly budgeted.”

Smiling, he asked further, “So do you say it’s worth the risk of cutting corners, in the interest of frugality?”

“Absolutely not,” stuttered Brimstone, flabbergasted, “I kept sharp eyes on them, after installing. The second I read that Royal Proclamation, I went to back to finding the right pipes immediately!”

“Royal Proclamation.” He turned back from the jury. “What do you mean? Do you refer to the inspection made two moons ago?”

“Your Honor,” said the other attorney to the appointed Maresbury, “The counselor’s asking my client for unreasonably specific facts.”

“He should know when the proclamation he referred to was issued,” answered Maresbury, “therefore, overruled.”

“Because if memory serves me well,” continued Matt, receiving the written copies from Starlight, and passed it down to the other table for inspection, “your friend, Madame Nephrita, wrote to you concerning those exact companies three moons ago. Should I need to call on her, she would attest to being the initiator of that inspection during the same timeframe. I’m curious, was yours lost in the mail?”

“I’m afraid I know nothing about that,” stammered Brimstone.

“Your Honor,” his attorney tried to maintain some poise, “Unless Counselor Daredevil could prove my client received this document personally-”

“It’s not about whether he received the document,” he cut back in, “It’s that he failed to acknowledge it. I respectfully request this be submitted as evidence, Your Honor. Unless, of course, Mister Brimstone can provide support in stating otherwise.”

“I-I-I receive many letters from friends and colleagues, quite regularly.”

“What would you consider worse,” Matt asked on, “Ignoring expressed concerns for the sake of avoiding costs, or neglecting to supply for evidence holding you accountable for damage inflicted on another’s welfare, including those young ponies-”

“Your Honor, we-”

“-including those young ponies, who’ve already suffered a great deal?”

“Your Honor,” snapped the other stallion, “we request a brief recess!”

“No need,” he smirked, “I’m done. And so is he.”

As he prodded his staff in finding his chair, he caught Starlight’s whispered taunt, “You really enjoyed that, didn’t you?”

Widening his muzzle to a full grin in response, he sat down next to her. He had no need to check the beaming smiles of other familiar ponies behind them, either.

He passed by the arguing stallions at the door, who hardly acknowledged anyone at the moment. After the exchange of courtesies, he found Brimstone and his attorney back at it right away.

“Oh, I can’t tell you how thrilling it was to watch it!” Growing used to Velvet’s energetic enthusiasm by now, he listened to the mare trotting by him with a smile. “Must’ve been not as spectacular as Rainbow Dash’s hearing, but I’d like to get a clipping of that from the paper too!”

“I bet Twilie would’ve liked a copy of the transcript, herself,” smirked Shining’s voice.

“I can make a few changes from the notes we used to make one,” offered Starlight in kind, “I’m sure the others would like to know about it also.”

“We would too, if it’s no trouble,” Nightlight asked. “Sure, might be borderline Bowhoof-Whistles, but we can’t be any prouder of this stallion with us, at this moment.”

“You’ve done so much good today, Mattie,” said Cadence, increasing his already-bashful response, as it was. “No matter where you come from, that’s a good deed done with love and care. Nopony can take that kind of achievement away.”

Huffing out as much hot air as possible, he shook his head. “Because I asked a few questions, and waved some piece of paper I can’t even read properly?”

“All those bits you’ve won for the foster home were because you took the time and energy to help them out,” Sunburst jumped in, cradled and napping Flurry in tow. “Not for any sort of reward, except in knowing you were able to do your best, and succeed for them.”

“And even if you didn’t succeed,” Shining stated, “we’d still be proud to know you’d be satisfied you gave it your all. Maybe you should get a Crystal castle, or mansion, or something, yourself.”

Laughing at Shining Armor’s jibe, he conceded, “Alright, alright. I get it. I appreciate all the support all of you are so ruthless in delivering, and that you strongly believe me to be someone good. That kind of absolution is needed, every once in a while. So, hopefully that’ll be all for the whole year. Can’t afford to have me over my head about it, you know.”

“Yeah,” scoffed Starlight playfully, “not another Rainbow Dash, thanks very much.”

“But for what it’s worth,” he calmly added after laughing further, “I couldn’t have asked for better companions. If anything, I…I’d wish Foggy were here to be a part of this. As well as…”

“We know, pal,” said Shining evenly, comforting him with a hoof on the shoulder. “And, you’re welcome. Plus, I know I couldn’t have asked for somepony better to watch my family’s back, either.”

“Thanks, again,” he nodded, “Now I just wonder if this is all too good to be true. Even wondering when the next…”

“Next what,” asked Velvet and Nightlight.

“Nothing,” he sighed, “Right now, it’s nothing. But I’ll let you know, if I learn more about it later.”

“Well,” Cadence warmly said, “we’ll let you take some time to settle down, before we see you again tonight.”

“Alright,” he replied, “And again, thanks for everything. All of you.” As they veered toward the Crystal Palace at a leisure, serene pace, he went inside.

He was positive this whole week proved to be far more fulfilling and peaceful. Very seldom did he ever have time spent so joyfully as this, in his adult life. Maybe his entire life, even.

As he traversed up the stairs and down the hallway on his floor, he took soothing, carefree breaths. Without a single, substantial worry at the forefront now, he felt he could sleep even more soundly tonight after supper.

“Radiant.” Recognizing her signature instantly, he hardly flinched at her gleeful, though steady voice. “I’m named Radiant Hope, in answer to your first inquiry.”

“Any chance you’re coming by, Miss Hope?” He reached for the kettle, and placed it over the fire he had rekindled.

“Not in the immediate future, I fear.” The brief, somber tone had swiftly shifted back to her pleasant demeanor. “But know we look forward to revealing ourselves most fully, and properly offer you our proposition. We be more than anxiously charmed and thrilled in meeting you, someday. Now, have a pleasant-”

“Milla.”

“Um, pardon?”

“Her name’s Milla, in answer to yours.”

“Milla Murdock,” she said, causing a lump in his throat, “How fitting for such a beloved, sea-faring warrior, as the Coltic-Gale surname implies. Have a pleasant evening, Master Murdock.”

“Thank you, Miss Hope. And likewise.”

As the energy from the Unicorn departed, he removed his suit Rarity specially fitted him, and sat in wait for the kettle to boil. The gentle warmth that engulfed his humble, yet blissful dominion he took in, along with the soft air flowing all around his face.

Shortly after that, however, came a light tapping sound, and slow creak from his bedroom window. Deciding it best to maintain his blindpony appearance for now, he began to study his intruder intently.

Male, from what he could tell, and Pegasus also. Very fit, and ruggedly firm, he could surmise him to be from the military. Curious as to why a pony under Captain Sentry would pay him such a visit, given his energy signature not matching Sentry’s, he remained still and calm.

His steps were gentle and soft, in his stealth approach. Had he not received highly enhanced senses, and Stick’s training, he might have missed him. Especially after such an angelic conversation. The stranger then made the corner out from the small corridor, leading him straight to the roaring fireplace and warming office, where Daredevil sat.

“If you don’t mind waiting, the kettle’s nearly finished,” he finally announced. The stallion stopped moving in response, though wings still outstretched. “Take another step without my consent, however, that’s not the only welcome you’ll receive. Now, tell me who you are and what you want?”

Chuckling, the hoarse voice rumbled through his barrel. “Gees, I can’t get anything by you, can I. Not without some extra noise.”

“Your name and business, please.” Coolly, Daredevil took even deeper breaths. The stranger did the same.

“Figured you couldn’t recognize me. I didn’t either, seeing my reflection at first. Wouldn’t have recognized you, if it weren’t for those specs. Also figured you’d make quite the name for yourself real quickly around here. Always jumping into the closest fire, am I right Red?”

Getting a better read on the stallion’s voice, he muttered, “Frank.”

No Good Deed

“The hell is this place?” The only time he ever saw an old-fashioned station like this was in black-and-white photos from a museum his family visited. This was no picture, though. Not even black and white. Nothing but lush and bright colors. But there was one other thing he took with a squinted look. No scrapers.

True to that Wild West wing of the museum, all he could see was wide-open spaces. Snow-capped mountain ranges were to either side of him, chaining off behind the station. Good thing for him, he was the only one there. No one to stare and gawk at his sudden presence in broad daylight, wondering where he came from. Good thing too, because he hardly knew the answer himself.

It was not the difference in terrain and environment that bothered him, though. But the sudden change of that, in what he would have thought was a blink of an eye. He could not even remember being knocked out. And he could not even get a layout of his current location.

The mountains seemed too close for the plains of Kansas and Nebraska, unless he were closer to their western borders. And it would be much drier, with not so green pastures. But those mountains were either to the north, or south if the sun passed its peak. No ranges he could think of like that, or even the fact that the Dakota Black Hills were still a good distance before any mountains in Canada. He may not have been to any of those states, but he knew his nation’s geography well enough from high school and boot camp, along with those of nations he went on tour. Unless he found himself in some European, Asian or African country he was unfamiliar with, this was unlike any place in the world.

“This day went from really awful to totallyawesome! Um, you really think you can, though? I-I mean, see what you can do?”

“I’m not exactly familiar with…Crystal Empire laws and statutes, but I’m sure to pick it up readily.”

“Yeah, I’m sure Twilight can hook you up with books for that!”

Hearing voices behind the station did not bother him. But how his ear managed to flip and turn that way was a different story. It was then he realized how stiff and numb he was, not feeling his hands and feet. Trying to rise from his dazed, seated position, he felt something like long hair brushing the wood where he sat. Feeling his neck turn into a full one-eighty, he then noticed the black tail of a steel blue horse. Branded with some copper mark like the Marine’s emblem, minus the globe, he looked down towards the floor, scanning to find a pair of wings on his sides, and four stumped legs. He raised his front right to touch the snout and muzzle. Turning his neck back again, he saw the reflection off the station’s window.

“For the love of…hell of a drug is this?” Seeing the horse-like image on the glass mouth his words, he tried to get a closer look. Bonk. Only to stumble and collapse onto the floor from the new bones and muscle structure he had. Taking it slowly and surely, he got back up, stepped rigidly towards the window, and placed a hoof on it. Eyes were a copper brown, and his jar-head hair he recognized, still black, but extending into the form of a horse’s mane somehow. Best he could describe it was like those army horses in that sappy cartoon his kids used to watch.

Using the wall for support, he felt feathers brush against it too. Rounding the corner, he saw two very colorful ponies stroll down the road, past an arch of floating gems. Seemed like a gateway of sorts, leading towards a city with some massive tower of crystal. One pony had wings also, with a mane and tale that made him think of the kids’ rainbow drawings. The other was bright yellow and had no wings. Just walked down the dirt path, while holding a long, red staff, able to walk with only three legs. But was very stiff in movement compared to the first one. The brand on that one reminded him of someone, though.

Just then, a small gust sent some newspaper his way, landing right in front of him. The front page flipped back down and read: LOYALTY WAVERS? Element to face trial of century!

“Got to hand it you, too,” said Frank Castle, tossing the paper in his wing to the fire, “Sure know how to make an impression, wherever you go.”

No Good Deed

“So,” Matt began, “You spent the last three, four weeks adjusting to this environment and your transformation, observing my movements here, while also asking questions of your own.”

“That’s the basic gist of it, yeah,” he shrugged back. “Stuck to the outskirts for most of it, making sure I got used to everything. Especially these.” Fwoosh. “Came pretty handy, afterward. Able to get a good lay of the land with them from far off. Unlike your glasses and stick though, my suit and hardware didn’t make the trip. So I had to adjust to what was available here without getting caught. Got past the armory, and borrowed a few of their medieval stuff to practice with. Security’s not exactly up to par with our own.”

“Their means and method of defense are different, to say the least,” said Matt, but countered, “Yet still proficient, and greatly effective.”

“Even then, sometimes it’s like they’re just bored and waiting for crap to happen.”

“And now,” Matt continued, “You just decided to drop by, see if we could compare notes.”

“Think I want out of here as much as you do. Unless you decided to settle down here already.” Not dignifying that with a response, he heard Frank continue. “Good. This place gives me the creeps anyways.”

“It’s only one city you’ve seen out of an empire, out of a completely different world. Like to know your reaction after expanding your horizons a little. Not sure we could’ve used you in Canterlot, though.”

“Yeah, I heard about that too. Some pretty crazy stuff went down. Like Avenger-level, high-dollar manure. Being in the middle of that’s got to put a few road blocks in your progress.”

“Been on the sidelines this past week recovering. Wasn't kept up to date with developments yet. But Cadence and Shining might have some more by now, if I ask.”

“Think you being on first name basis with the locals means they’re not your ball and chain? Or you just accepted being the doormat, for now?”

“Not unless doormats can take down unwanted limbs stepping on them,” he refuted, “But unlike some of us in this room, and in Hell’s Kitchen, I admit to having room for improvement where it matt- Someone’s coming.” The Unicorn’s energy came with her hooves clopping down the hallway, to alert the blind stallion.

Frank whispered, “One of your new pals?”

“She’s just coming to check and see what’s holding me up.” He sensed her raised hoof to tap-tap against the door, and rose from his place near the fire. “Feel free to introduce yourself, if you’re up to it.”

“Depends if she’s knows my reputation yet.”

“Only the basics.”

“Sheesh, you’ve gotten really personal with them then.”

“You think I had a total say in it?”

“I’ll just stick to the shadows for now, thanks.”

Detecting the Pegasus take a few, soft steps from the radiant flames to a cold corner, Matthew turned the knob and opened.

“Hey,” chirped Starlight lightly, “Just wondering what’s keeping you. I even walked the whole way to make sure I didn’t miss you. Everything okay?”

“Yeah,” he nodded, “Just got the kettle going to help unwind a little. I’ll meet you downstairs in a minute.”

“Oh, alright.” Warily, he picked up on the unease she emanated from his brief, cryptic excuse. “You’re sure there’s nothing wrong? You know you can always talk to us whenever, right?”

Huffing through his snout with a smirk, he answered, “Yeah, I know. Just…need to sort through some new developments that might’ve come up. Think about what to discuss with you all after dinner.”

“Oh, right. Like with Midnight and Horizon Rider, Midnight Sky and Zecora. Sure. I guess Cadence and Shining won’t mind sharing what else they found out. I mean, it’s your world we’re helping you get back to also. Not just finding the Alicorn Amulet.”

Fighting not to grimace at the reveal of names, he stiffly nodded, “Yeah, that. I’ll be joining you shortly.”

“Okay, see you then.” After closing the door, he listened to her departing steps toward the stairwell. It was during that moment he also picked up on his guest’s exit.

“You know I can’t keep them in the dark, Frank. This is their home we’re in. Their safety that’s on the line.”

“Do what you got to do, Red,” said the Pegasus, his forelegs on the window sill, “I’ll do the same.”

The gust of air from his wings sent Frank rushing out into the open night air, leaving the Crystal Pony to fully collect himself before he left also. The sudden spike in anxiety would be expected, along with a few hitched breaths and rising heart rates.

This being the grandparents’ last night before leaving, she was certainly glad to be allowed some more time. Yes, Sunburst, and to that extent Starlight, was more than enough help to both her and Shining. But this had been a great reprieve all around. As Velvet and Nightlight went to tuck Flurry in, the rosy Alicorn leaned in closer to her husband, as they departed from the dining hall. Behind them strolled their Unicorn friends and the Crystal stallion.

“So, Matt,” said Shining, after finding a place out of earshot, “Starlight mentioned you might have a few questions about what else we heard from Twilight and the rest. Feel free to fire away.”

“You’re as much a part of this, as we are,” joined Cadence, “Anything and everything confidential in this we can, and will share with you.”

“Actually,” he said, as they made a conferring circle near their office, “along with whatever else you’ve been told, there’s something I need to fill you in also.”

“What do you mean,” asked Shining.

“I wasn’t the only one taken from my world.”

Starlight asked, “You mean somepony else came here because of the Amulet?”

“Supposedly, that’s the connection. But, yes.”

“Do you know who it is,” inquired Sunburst, “How’d you find out?”

“He came to my place this evening,” Matt answered, “Turns out, he’s been around as long as I have. He recognized me, and wanted to know more about the investigation.”

“Is it a friend of yours,” said Cadence, noticing his discomfort.

“Not exactly. It’s Frank Castle.” Now with the others narrowing their pupils, she could understand Matt’s disposition.

“Wait,” gasped Starlight, “That Punisher guy? He's here? In Equestria?”

“He’s been laying low, mostly on the outskirts of the Empire. He was also adjusting to the same issues of change as I did.”

“So, he knew where to find you, and that you’ve been investigating with us,” said Shining, “Any idea what he’s found out?”

“Hopefully, very little. But I’m afraid of taking the risk of even letting out a few names.”

“Like when I was there to check on you,” Starlight realized, “But you couldn’t say anything without worrying that might trigge-cause something to happen, right?”

“I also had to make sure not too much stress came up during dinner.”

Cadence was grateful of the fact that her in-laws could take her filly to bed peacefully, without any worries at the moment. But she still felt a need to inform them when finished here.

“I guess we’re glad you kept this from getting everypony worried, until the right time.” Shining’s words resonated with his wife’s thoughts. “But were you able to get somepony on the lookout for him?”

“I sent a note to my surveying guard,” answered Matt, knowing he would find it when changing with his partner. "It describes what I could tell about him, and which direction he flew. Captain Sentry should have that information, by now.”

“Flew? Then he’s changed into a Pegasus,” said Sunburst, “And given his military expertise, you think he might have blended in with the Joint Guard?”

“Not likely,” said Shining Armor, “Even if that had been recent, Captain Sentry and his officers have made constant, thorough checks with me personally about our detail, in case of Chrysalis.”

“Nevertheless,” Cadence added, “we’ll need to make necessary changes in security just as badly. And with this year’s Crystal Faire coming up.”

“From what I can tell, Frank doesn’t view anyone here as a threat to eliminate,” Matt replied, “In fact, the opposite. But his code of conduct has always been loose. And in terms of Midnight Rider’s imprisonment, there’s no solid connection to the conspiracy for him to ask any questions, even though he's now aware of him.”

“That might change,” said Cadence, as she and Shining led them into the office, “Using that train ticket Starlight gathered in finding Horizon Rider, we used the arcane signature on that with a sample of Fluttershy’s tail after her attack.”

“Arcane signatures may be unique,” Shining elaborated for him, “but they’re also able to show any matches to other ponies related. Based on the hunch that the two may be brothers, we had Twilight run some tests.”

“You found a match,” Starlight inquired, with mild curiosity.

“Afraid so,” nodded Cadence, as she levitated a folder with Twilight’s Mark to her, “And with that, we can confirm Miss Sky’s claim that she’s both their cousins.”

“That could give Frank more than enough reason to interrogate him,” Matt remarked, “And with him locked away, Frank could easily get to him for answers without him escaping.”

“He can’t get in there without alarming the Guard,” Shining countered, “Even if he just went in there on a hunch.”

“According to him, he’s already breached the armory to gather new equipment,” said Matt, much to everypony’s dismay, “which means he has more than enough to infiltrate the prison also. And for all we know, he may have also taken a look at those results.”

“But how do we know, for sure,” asked Sunburst, as he and Starlight both glimpsed at the tests.

“We don’t,” the blind stallion answered, “And we can’t take the risk of finding out the hard way.”

“Agreed,” nodded the Unicorn Prince, “We need to get Midnight into protective custody, and find out what else he knows first.”

“He won’t cooperate, unless we give him the proper motivation,” offered Matt, as he pondered, “What’s his background, besides his brother and cousin?”

By afternoon the next day, Shining Armor was set to escort the two ponies, along with Abacus Cinch, to the visiting chamber. Another pony came with them, the Crystal mare’s suitcase placed firmly before her. From the other side of the bars sat the Unicorn stallion he recognized following Fluttershy. Tightening his grip on the staff, he heard Midnight’s attorney speak up to begin the exchange.

“Mister Rider, as your acting representative, I advise you to only speak when you feel fully willing to do so. Now, Councilmare Cinch of Crystal Domestics seeks to offer you protective custody.”

“Protection,” the stallion’s head lifted with unease and wonder, “What do I need protection for?”

“Courtesy of Counselor Daredevil and his associate, Miss Glimmer,” Cinch answered, “It has come to our attention that a rogue pony has caught wind of your brother’s involvement in the Amulet’s theft. His connection and motives of involving himself in this matter have yet to be confirmed, but it's possible he might connect you to it also.”

“I’ve got nothing to say about that,” he shrugged, “There’s no proof that I’m even in cahoots with my brother. Circumstantial evidence is all that’s been found on that.”

“Regardless, there’s reason to believe this rogue will act on his own accord to intimidate you for more information. Possibly even torture. This is a highly dangerous individual, and the Crystal Empire’s on high alert for him. We wish to offer you the best means of safety for you, and your family.”

“What’re you talking about?” Slight worry elevated his heartrate quickly from that last sentence. Then his pulse picked up the pace even more.

“If I may, Mister Rider,” said Daredevil, sensing more tension jump sharply from Midnight. Judging by the sudden movement of his ears, he recognized the voice. “I’ve engaged with this Pegasus up close, and personally. He’s extremely volatile and unpredictable. A wild, loose cannon. From what I’ve known of him, he does value family. But that can be a double-edged sword. He may go after your sister, niece and nephew to try and lure you out to the open. After all, Miss Daybreak intends to make bail for you this evening, correct?”

There was a pause of discomfort, as the stallion turned his head from Daredevil to former boss. Seeing her stoic demeanor seemed to show what secrets Daredevil had shared. Huffing with unease, Midnight decided to speak.

“She said she had to wait ‘til the next pay date to bail me out. I’d been trying my hardest to support them. Even convinced them to move up here, where it seemed safer from all the stuff Equestria went through. Sombra's attacks and the wild blizzards were all there was, and we were only here for that last event. To see the Royal Crystalling. Even Tirek hadn’t made it to the Empire. Mist.” Raising his hardened gaze back to the blind stallion, he asked, “Why haven’t you done anything, yet?”

“That’s where we need your help,” Daredevil answered, “Unless we have substantial proof that you were involved, we can’t know for absolute certain we should make that additional effort. Now, granted the Empire is well protected, and the Guard’s on optimal vigilance for this pony. But without enough facts for a due cause, we can’t guarantee anything more specific for them.”

The councilmare spoke up again, “This is our proposition. Prince Shining Armor will grant you and your family the proper protection needed, while I quicken your release as much as I’m allowed. Given the Guard has brought only one charge of assault onto an overall, modelled citizen, that’s entirely feasible. The counselor and Miss Glimmer, however, need your full cooperation.”

“Now who’s using them against me?” Midnight Rider shook his head with massive frustration. Even Starlight returned to her hesitant manner prior to coming here. And yet, he could sense the caged Unicorn’s muscles release somewhat, showing small signs of resignation. “What guarantee do I have, right now?”

“Prince Shining Armor’s outside, as we speak,” Starlight answered this time, “He’s got a full escort ready for you, and everything. And his Captain’s ready to go to Miss Daybreak’s apartment, on his command. For now, all you have to do is sign this.”

Her horn’s energy sent a scroll before the stallion, past the bars. Then followed an ink and quill. With the latter material placed in front of him, Midnight used his own magic to hold the written agreement. As his eyes scanned through its contents, Daredevil spoke. “This is your chance to help them even more. All while you can be there for them, in this hour of crisis. Within the hour. The question is, will you?”

At that, Midnight Rider sharply glanced at the Crystal stallion. With both disdain and urgency, he could tell the pony was conflicted by his attacker’s words.

“I still can't get over how uncomfortable that was,” Starlight sighed, as she watched the guards and Shining trotting down the road with the released Unicorn. “I mean, sure it was a quid pro quo that’s entirely legal. But it still didn’t feel completely right to use that on him. Using the notion of helping his family on him like that.”

“A lot of times,” Matt replied, “we need to do everything we can to get the job done, and that includes taking steps into the morally grey. Using the law to our personal favor. There are those who abuse that course of action, but not all. Just know we’re doing this for both him and his family, and an even bigger picture. This is the right thing to do for the common good.”

“Guessing those conspirators would believe the same thing about themselves, huh? And even Castle? Even me, at one point.”

Looking at the gold Crystal Pony, she saw him take a deep breath to sigh also. “Life’s complicated that way. But I guess you're already aware of that.”

Sharing a brief snigger from his remark helped to settle the light purple mare. As they made their journey down the smooth, polished pavement themselves, Starlight began to ponder about the situation further. Sure, she can agree that what they did, how they went about it, and what they were doing now was for the best. But at the same time, she still felt something grasping and pulling against her. A nagging sense of shame, maybe? But Matt’s words a moment ago kept that guilt at bay, prompting her to wonder what else it could be. If the Crystal Pony was right, then she should have nothing for which to apologize. And yet, she also wondered what else could be done.

She looked back up to the blind stallion who matched his pace with hers, seeing the stern expression on his countenance. He seemed to be deeply focused, concentrating more deeply on their surroundings. Ears flapping back and forth, as his nostrils were more inflamed, taking whiffs of air. Considering what they were up against, or more whom, she could understand how difficult this situation must be for him. How uncomfortable he must have felt these past twenty-four hours.

“I’m sure we can resolve this matter for Rider as best we can,” he told her, taking her by surprise. “Wouldn’t be fair of us to simply leave him behind, like an old rag doll at the bottom of some chest.”

“Um, no. I guess not.” Still needing to get used to his great awareness of everything around him, Starlight decided to concentrate on the road ahead. But not while offering her own two bits. “And for what it’s worth, I think we can handle this situation too. You don’t have to worry about facing off with him alone, like before.”

Smirking he said, “No, I guess not. In fact, there was a time I gathered a few friends and allies to form a team that would keep him in check. Oddly enough, he then decided to offer his input to help us with another situation. That is, it was odd for some. But as much as we disagree on each other’s methods, violently even, he and I still had that one thing in common. Mutual respect for sharing that greater cause.”

“Not to mention what you both lost. How that motivated you two to do something about the evil that’s been happening in your world.”

“Yeah, that also.”

“And it won’t just be me, Shining and Cadence to help out. Twilight and the others will be more than happy to contribute as much as possible, when they get our message. Maybe even come up to offer a way to help both of you.”

“I highly doubt he’d be as willing to accept that gesture, himself” he sniggered, “But it’s always worth a shot.”

“Pun intended?” At that, their brief moment of mirth allowed them to take this trip peacefully. And in steady silence and vigilance, they carried on toward the Palace and glistening sunset that took place.

As she watched them settle into their current environment, the light purple Unicorn saw how uneasy the siblings were, even though the guards maintained their positions outside their temporary chambers. While they still kept a calm, steady demeanor, and offered a few smiles for the little ones, Midnight Rider and Daybreak would face one another with uncertainty and dread. It was during that time the light green filly and scarlet colt decided to play with their toys in the adjacent guest room.

“I know what you’re thinking,” he told his Pegasus sister, “And yeah, I did bring this on you for being such an idiot that night. I wasn’t thinking clearly, and I’m making you three pay for it. Just know that I-”

“That’s not it, Midnight,” she cut him off, her amber irises facing his deep blue pair, “Sure that’s a part of it, but I’m mostly worried about what this means for us, after the dust settles. I mean, what are we supposed to do about Horizon? What if he comes to check on us, or decides to leave us in the dark again?”

“I don’t know.” He heaved a grunted sigh. “All I know is what to do right here, right now. And that’s to do what I have to, in order to help you. To make up for what I did.”

“Then why don’t you start doing that right here, right now?” The scarlet mare turned to face Starlight Glimmer, while placing a suitcase onto her withers. “I’ll be unpacking in the other room.”

After watching her curly mane and tail of orange and pink take to the hallway, with a Mark of the sun, she saw Midnight lower his head in bereavement. Turning to face her then, he said, “Alright. What’d you like to know?”

Starlight saw him levitate a pair of seats with his silver aura, and watched the dark grey stallion sit before her. Deciding to follow his lead in that regard, she picked up from the Unicorn’s initiative. “Listen, before we get started, I’d like to point out I was in a similar position once. Making a few wrong choices that I felt were the right ones, only to find out I was really causing more problems instead of resolving the ones closer to home first.”

“Yeah,” sighed Midnight, “Look, the only reason I did what I did was because I was angry with everypony. First my brother talked me into those secret meetings, asking me to promise and say nothing, then I find out that cost me my job with Cinch. I didn’t have any plans to really hurt that Pegasus. But I felt it was the only way for me to get back at those I thought put me on the spot.”

“You’re saying your brother tried to have you join him?”

“Yeah. You see, so many ponies automatically think we’re twins, by how we look alike. But really, I'm the youngest of us three. Horizon’s the oldest. Anyway, his group must’ve fallen into that other train of thought, and believed I’d be all for it too. And at first, I was. I thought they really wanted to help make Equestria safer and better, and help others to heal and recover from everything that’s happened. But then, I heard about Horizon’s plans. Stealing a dark amulet that corrupts ponies that wear it, to foalnap the Master of Chaos, steal his powers, and then try to destroy the Elements? I told him that’s not what I signed up for, and left.

But I was also conflicted with how to go about my life after that. I still promised not to say anything, believing I’d still be stabbing Horizon in the back. But like I said, that got me fired. So, I just thought if I played along like I were with Horizon, that’d point everypony in the right direction, and I wouldn’t have to worry about betraying anypony. But that was as far as I got in my plan. Next thing I knew, I was attacked, became jobless, and locked up for attacking the kindest of the Elements. Now everypony thinks I’m a traitor, so I was too ashamed to say anything else.”

“That’s not what I got from your sister,” Starlight countered. “I think she’s mostly upset with how things unfolded, and how you handled them. But I also think she wants to move past that, forgive you, and focus on what to do next. Together. And with that side of the story, and I believe you at least, we can help ponies believe you too. You were just worried, upset and pressured in what to do, since you felt you had to choose between your sister and brother.”

“What about your partner,” he grimly asked, “The blind Crystal Pony? Is he even blind? He knew I was lying that night, so does that mean he wouldn’t believe me now? He’s not even here to listen.”

“He told me how you recognized his voice, and how he wanted to give you some space and help calm the issue. For both your sakes. He’s probably listening in now, from outside. Visually, he’s impaired. It’s just his other senses that seem to be hit by a sonic rainboom. So, believe me, he’ll tell me whether or not you’re lying later. But even so, he wants to help you too. Believe that, also.”

That seemed to rattle his brain with several more questions of uncertainty, so she decided to step off her chair, place her hoof onto his shoulder, and say, “Look. I don’t have all the answers to help you get through this, but remember you’re not alone in all of it. And speaking of answers.” Moving back to her seat, after regaining his full attention, “What else can you tell me about your brother?”

She had left the interviewing ponies, but silently stood by the door leading outside. It was there she was met by three Crystal Guards, Prince Shining Armor and Counselor Daredevil in the Palace hallway. Once she made her approach and neared the two stallions, the Pegasus simply stood and waited for the right moment.

“Glad to hear they made it to the station alright,” said the blind pony.

“They were a little upset and worried,” the Unicorn Prince replied, “But more about what might happen here when they left. But that’s parents for you, and grandparents.”

“Both a blessing and curse, I take it.”

“That’s family life in general. Just don’t let Cady hear that from me.” Their brief mirth shared had passed, when the Crystal stallion tilted his head and ears toward Daybreak.

“Speaking of which,” the Prince spoke further, “I better check on Flurry and Sunburst real quick. I’ll catch up with you in a bit. Take care.”

“Sure, yeah. Same to you.” Exchanging a firm, stud embrace, she watched the white Unicorn pass the golden stallion of red-tinted specs. He stood quietly, as she took a deep breath in preparation.

“There’s a whole lot I've wanted to tell you. When Midnight first told me about you when I visited him, I couldn’t help but feel this knot in my gut and pulling. Like, I felt that if something like that could happen here in the Empire, how were we any safer? And yes, I know my brother initiated that attack, and you only responded in defense. But was it all that is was? Was there something more to make you want to…torture him like that?”

“I take it you heard what he told Starlight a moment ago.”

“Maybe not as well as you, but yeah I caught a few details here and there.”

He deeply inhaled through his snout, and heavily released through the small gap in his muzzle. “After the accident that blinded me, my Dad was the only thing that kept me from losing it. My other senses were developing erratically, and I kept getting everything in my head at once. No one knew what was bothering me, but it obviously had to do with the accident. But that didn’t stop my Dad from coming over to help me in some way. What he’d do was let me touch his face, telling me he was there for me to help make things better, no matter what. When he was taken from me, I went to the dark alley where he was abandoned, and felt his cold face. I was eleven."

"I heard about the Empire going through bad times," Daybreak said, fighting not to choke, "Even when the Queen started out over a millennium ago."

"Anyway," he continued, "I didn’t lose my head all at once. It just kept building up, like a pot of water boiling over. The floodgates were blasted wide open years later, when I encountered the guy who took him. Since then, I’ve been struggling. Fighting to have a better grasp of my anger and fury to those who even dare to harm and oppress the innocent. But I also learned to value all life, regardless. But that still doesn’t excuse me from how I acted. How much I…wanted to. I even sensed this sort of…outburst from the Crystal Heart. Like it was calling out to me, begging me to stop. I only listened after Fluttershy confronted me a moment later.”

“That’s another thing,” she stated, “It took the mare who was attacked to stop you from hurting Midnight even more. He said the last thing he remembered before getting knocked out was how you said he’d live to regret touching her again. So, what was it all about? Protecting the victim, or making another by scaring and threatening the perp?”

“Both. As much as I’ve wanted to bring forth the same torment they’re willing to bestow on others without cause, I still believe that what I do, that is to take action and help, is the right call to make. To not just stand aside and let it happen, but do something about it.”

Even more deeply perplexed by his response, the scarlet mare simply looked at the blind pony in silence.

“Maybe,” he continued, “maybe that’s the real issue that should be addressed with myself, and your brother. Not going about your lives like everything’s fine, and nothing bad happened. And not to take radically extreme measures either. But to find the right way to act. I heard it once said that when asked what’s wrong with the world, to answer ‘I am.’”

“You know G.J. Chestnutton? I guess so, considering you studied abroad after the Empire returned.”

Smirking with a puff, he answered, “Guessing you read also?”

“Only when I find the time,” she huffed in kind, “which has been far more sparse since…moving from Canterlot and finding work, and on top of taking care of the foals. But Midnight’s been more than helpful with that.”

“Why don’t you tell me about your husband? What did he do for a living? What were his hobbies?”

She was baffled by the shift in their discussion. But seeing how he opened up about himself, the Pegasus was willing to comply in return. “Well, um. Misty Glint worked as a weather pony, like me. That’s how we met. We started work around the same time, and trained together. We’d just been good friends for a while, like our fellow coworkers. He even got along great with Midnight and Horizon. Always hanging out on weekends, and finding something fun to do. We always had a blast watching a few games. But when we started…seeing each other differently, he would find some way to make me smile more brightly. The fog he was scheduled to bring to Canterlot in early spring he would time it just right for the moisture to gleam rainbow halos around the sunrise. And for the fall, he got it so that the moonlight would cause a bright, silver ring.”

A few moments later, he said, “Tell me about the accident.”

Now Daybreak felt even more bewildered, and was more anxious by how best to answer the stallion. “It was a mechanical incident. Something happened with the machinery in Cloudsdale, when we went to pick up our cloud order for the week. He was more than badly hurt. Doctors said that he needed a day for his arcane energy to build up enough stamina to even take stuff through the tube. But then…that’s when Tirek came. Never felt so helpless in all my life. I can still hear the flat-line beep in the hospital.

What followed was whatever happened when the Elements stopped him. It’s like their energy from that magical outburst just sent a great wave of hope and peace. Something I felt only a few times. Just a couple after we moved here. Right away, Mist could breathe again, and I couldn’t stop crying with joy. Even though he’s been in deep sleep since then, Princess Luna assured us it was only a matter of time. Horizon said he’d look after him, while we were away. They convinced me the Empire's the safest place overall for the kids. And Midnight had worked here under Cinch, since she hired him back in Canterlot. So there was moral support. Horizon also said he’d bring our Mist to us when he’s awake.”

Pausing to wipe a few stray tears and recollect herself, she then noticed Daredevil lowering his head respectfully. He also seemed to ponder her words in contemplation.

“Did Horizon ever mention what he planned to do with the Amulet?”

“No. That’s just it. When he came up to the Empire, we all thought he was coming with Mist. But he told us about some complications. That whatever happened to Mist by Tirek made some kind of sleep inducing spell that won’t wear off by conventional methods. Even the Princesses struggled to find a solution, but only told Horizon about it later. So he asked me and Midnight to join him in some group he helped organize. I thought it best to just stay with the kids and my job, while Midnight decided to take a look. After he got fired, I noticed how frustrated he was and at war with himself. But he wouldn’t say anything, until after he was locked up.”

She caught sight of the blind counselor open his muzzle to enquire even further, but then everything went dark. The crystals that shined down the hall were somehow extinguished.

At the suspicious behavior that came from the lights, Shining spoke through his crystal earpiece, “Captain Sentry, report.”

“Just sending a unit to check the situation,” immediately came the response, “Must be something jamming the Palace’s connection to the Heart. Not even sure if that’s possible. I’m currently en route to your position, Sir.”

Poff! Cadence and Starlight suddenly appeared beside Sunburst, who had just checked on a sleeping Flurry.

“No, Sentry,” answered Shining, “The area here is secure. Make sure the rest of the Palace is okay. I’ll call to check on the added security detail.”

“Yes, sir,” the Pegasus complied, “I copy. Sentry, out.”

“Royals, out.” After using his crimson magic to adjust the frequency, he spoke up again. “Matt, how’s everything over there?”

“Nothing seems to be wrong,” was his even response, “In fact, it’s too quiet. Not picking up anything in the near vicinity, but I’ll keep you-” Poom!

The rumbling was felt throughout the entire castle, as though a massive blast threatened to level the place.

“That didn’t sound good,” shakily remarked Starlight.

“We might have to evacuate,” Cadence said, turning to levitate her filly’s cradle in case. “Sunburst, you and Starlight go ahead of us while we head to the nearest exit.”

“That might be what he wants,” said Matt, “He’s probably trying to cause security to shift and scramble, making it harder for us to keep a sharp lookout for him.”

“Then what would you suggest,” asked Sunburst for them all.

“If this is a trap, I’d say the best way to bring him to us is to spring it.”

“Your Majesties,” the Captain’s voice sharply lost their connection, “We seemed to have found the culprit.”

“Already,” asked Starlight, “That seemed way too easy.”

“Please repeat, Captain,” said Shining, “Elaborate.”

“We found the cause of the power outage. And the explosions.”

"Explosions," gasped Sunburst, "There was more than one?"

“We’re coming to you,” said Cadence, lifting her squirming daughter’s crib, “Have everypony else evacuate the Palace.”

“I copy. Sentry, out.”

“Royals, out.” At that, with the two Unicorn friends in the lead, the Royal Family kept close together while making their way outside.

Once they had made it to him, the gold Crystal Pony turned to face them while keeping his place near Midnight, Daybreak and her foals.

“Everything okay here,” asked Starlight, to whom he nodded in response.

“No activity yet, as far as I can tell. He’s known to cause trouble from a great distance, but I doubt even his marksmanship can use a crossbow that efficiently.”

“Prince, Princess,” calmly spoke Captain Sentry, as he approached them, “There’s something you need to see.”

Gently sending a calmed Flurry to Sunburst, Shining saw how grateful his wife was that nothing has yet disturbed or scared their daughter too much. After he checked with the security detail around Midnight and Daybreak, the blind stallion made his way to the sight also.

“Take a look at this.” At the Pegasus’ gesture, they found fresh burn marks on each of the four Palace pillars. Shards of crystal surrounded the area, while the Crystal Heart seemed to be slowing down after a sudden shift in speed.

“I should’ve checked that,” Matt remarked, “Seems the Heart somehow used its own energy to shield the blasts.”

“That’s what we figured,” Sentry replied, “It was drawing energy out of the Palace, in order to protect itself, and us from the set of explosions. But notice anything else?”

“The smell of magnesium for one,” answered the blind pony, “Also a trace of crude nitroglycerin. Judging by that scent, the blast radii are facing outward as well.”

“Exactly,” nodded Sentry, “We got witnesses saying they saw small tubes dropping from sky, and landing squarely in those places.”

“I should’ve been aware of that also,” sneered Matt, “Been so focused on any suspicious activity entering the castle, instead of all around. Was anyone hurt?”

“Thankfully, no. They said seeing the Palace go dark and the Heart acting up prompted them to keep their distance.”

“It was the Crystal Heart sending a distress for ponies to stay away,” said Cadence, “But since we’re all here, what exactly does that-?”

“Office,” sharply spoke Matt, causing them all to look him with uncertainty. “He just dove down from high above. He’s getting into your office.”

“Captain, you’re with me,” ordered Shining, “Cadence and Starlight will keep watch for anything else to happen. The rest of you obey Cadence’s orders, and keep your posts unless told otherwise. Daredevil, stay close. You’re the one who knows how best to handle him.” Poof-bling!

He had just tossed the final drawer open with his right hoof, forcing it out of the desk. He shifted through the papers, while his left held the documents he found already. Browsing for a short minute, he took the last thing he needed and made his way back to the window. But just then, he saw an orange, armored Pegasus hovering outside, ready to strike.

Pling! Frank turned to see a white Unicorn also in armor, with Daredevil standing beside him and split staff at the ready.

“Figured you'd think I go after one of those names that pony mentioned,” the steel blue Pegasus remarked, “Took that trouble in protecting the guy to make a few distractions. Safe to say I’m on a roll.”

“Frank,” sternly spoke the Crystal stallion, “I told you. I could get the information needed to share with you. We’re both a part of this. All you have to do is cooperate with us.”

“If sticking around, twiddling your thumbs is your way of handling this, then feel free. But I’m going to do things my way. Just needed to know where to start, is all.”

“There’s no way you can escape,” said the Unicorn, “You’re outnumbered, and cornered. Surrender peacefully, and we can talk about how to help you too.”

“Not so worried about any of those things,” shrugged Frank, as the other Pegasus glided closely behind him, who had reached for his belt, and removed shackles at the ready. “Like I said, I’m on a roll distracting you.”

At that, he saw Daredevil raise his hoof to his ear, “Cadence, Starlight! Force-field, now!”

BOOOM! Another explosion was heard and felt just seconds later, as Frank lifted his right hoof to block his Pegasus attacker. He jumped, and twisted around to kick his first opponent, sending him to the floor behind the desks. He then raised a crossbow with his right wing, pointing at Daredevil.

“Shining, don’t-” Pew! He saw his window of opportunity, then pulled the trigger to send a shaft into Shining’s shoulder when he stepped in front of the false target, as expected. Daredevil was too late to warn or stop the Unicorn Prince, as he was caught falling from the arrow’s momentum. He was then lowered gently onto the floor by Daredevil, who was calling out for a medic. At that, the Punisher holstered his weapon and took off.

Spirits of the Cimarron

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.

The First Crusader

Author's Note

🦅IT'S ABOUT THE WINGS.🦇

I first want to offer my thanks to all who are following and offering their support in this story, and I'm glad you've been enjoying it so far.:pinkiehappy::yay: Secondly, I am also grateful for the contribution and efforts made in the newest cover art, courtesy of dereturd and edCOM02.:raritywink:
Granted, the coloring might throw some off a little, and Murdock's no Pegasus in this tale, mind you,:rainbowhuh: but it certainly makes for a very extravagant image.:coolphoto: Especially that armored suit.:rainbowderp:

"Nice ears."
"They're horns.":rainbowlaugh:

Anyway, sorry about the ensued confusion. Guess edCOM02 and I just weren't aware of each other's work, just yet. Though I have seen some of his other Marvel/MLP crossover art. I hope you enjoy this next installment before. As always, any constructive critique is duly appreciated. So until next time, God Bless.

The First Crusader

"And when was this?"

"I'm not sure. Some time before you found me, and woke me up," the Unicorn stallion stammered to a worried Cadence, "I'm telling you, he came at me with that sleep-inducing spell just out of nowhere! Without any reason, whatsoever! I'm so, terribly sorry I lost them."

"It wasn't your fault, Sunburst," the rose Alicorn replied, "You were caught by surprise, is all. The Guards told us they never saw Midnight Rider leave his chambers either. Only sensing his magic being used before we alarmed them."

"Which means he also teleported to the Royal Chambers when we were all occupied," said Twilight, pacing intensely between the empty crib and bed. "But why would he abduct Shining and Flurry?!"

"We don't know yet," responded Starlight, offering a hoof for comfort, "But whatever reason it might be, we let our guards down, and Rider took full advantage of that."

"I say we track down this here, ungrateful little vermin and coral 'im!"

"That's just it, Applejack," said Cadence, "We have no way of tracing where his magic teleported him next with the others. Since it wasn't immediately before we found out."

"And trust me," said Twilight, "Even that is extremely difficult. That's why I made it one of Starlight's challenges as my student."

"Then how in tarnation is we going to find Shining and Flurry Heart?!"

"Your Highness," sharply announced Captain Sentry upon arrival, "I'm afraid I have some more bad news."

All looked on with even more unease as Cadence spoke, "What is it, Captain?"

"Come with me, and see for yourselves."

They had trotted or flew briskly down the hall, following the Pegasus' lead. Nopony was saying a word, given their greatly blown out anxiety. All they could do was tail the Captain, while he debriefed the Princesses on what else that happened.

"I started interviewing Guardponies in the palace to report anything suspicious, and make a timetable of events leading to the foalnapping. The two ponies posted at the dungeon stated they heard shouting inside, some time before or during."

"It's Daredevil," sharply stated Starlight, "He must've sensed it happening."

"Despite knowing the guards wouldn't respond to prisoners except by command," Twilight added, "He still made an effort to warn everypony."

Flash Sentry then regained their attention. "That's my assessment also, but when I went in to ask him what he knew..."

By then, they had reached down the dungeon's corridor. And stood before Matt's cell.

"...I found this." The rest gasped at the opened cage door, as well as its vacant space.

"He's gone," asked Applejack.

"And he's not the only one." Seeing a raised hoof from the Captain Sentry, all turned with greater gasps while eying the neighboring cell in the same way.

"Oh, no." Pling! Twilight Sparkle vanished in a blast of light and smoke, leaving the others wondering what she was doing. And then-POOF! Exactly where she last stood, the lavender mare held a red, metal bar in her fetlock. "This is Daredevil's."

"And what of it, Twi," said the Earth Pony.

"I found this in the Royal Armory," she answered shakily, "Where Tempest's Storm armor was being kept."

The First Crusader

He kept going. Faster and faster, with every puff of breath, and each flap of his wings. According to his unhappy partner after busting him out, the prick that took the two ponies left some sort of energy trail with the last two teleports. They were heading further south. Away from the glittering city of rocks, and the massive country of grassy plains and blizzard mountains it was a part of.

But with his flight speed and strangely attained aerodynamics from those small things, Frank had the advantage of greater momentum on his side like last time. Getting the intel from Red's super enhanced hearing and such, the man-turned-stallion acted as reconnaissance, and flew straight in that general direction. He knew that whoever did this could be useful to his cause in finding a way back. But that if he kept going at this on his own, he recognized that Daredevil would not be so far behind too. It was probably about time he took a hint and cooperated with him and those colorful horse-freaks. Otherwise, they promised to keep him here after capturing him for the trouble he caused. Red would be more than apt to get on his case, that was a sure thing. Less so, if he just went back to let the blind pony know what he had found and help.

And then there was the fact that this character they were chasing had nothing to do with taking the two out of their own world. Then they would have to waste more time rescuing that little girl and her injured dad, before getting back to focusing on that Pegasus Red made him lose. If only he could just find them, assess the situation, swoop down and knock that miserable punk's butt, Castle would not have to worry so much about having to work with Daredevil or any of those prissy horses of a different color.

As he glided back and flew with the racing, black-clad stallion, he spoke. "Spotted a big forest further up. About ten more klicks. There's a patch of busted down trees and craters at the very edge of it. Guess that friend of yours put up another hell of a fight over his girl."

"Any signs of where they're headed next," Daredevil huffed.

"A few green drops of something fresh left a kind of trail. Couldn't make much sense out of that, except maybe a sort of strange animal caught in the blasts. But then I saw another trail of red next to it. On the ground, like something hurt was being dragged. Small, but noticeable, heading east-southeast."

"Whoever it was didn't want too many ponies close by, nor have a response close to military settlements. Keeping an even greater distance from Canterlot southwest from here also."

"Take it this psycho wanted to lead the ponies close to the kid into some kind of trap for payback."

"Most likely, considering the intruder mentioned having dealt with them before the struggle. And given how unprepared he was for Shining's retalliation, he's getting desperate and sloppy. Doubtful the others would've pick on this trail sooner without us."

"Would've used our own time better though, if we hadn't gone up to get that black knock-off of yours.'

"Since you took my intel so quickly and found the damaged woods, I'd say we made well enough progress. And it helped to confirm I'd be needing this."

"Still, had to fly further back than I'd have had to. I'm sure of that."

"Just be grateful I never told them where you kept your lock-pick."

"You know, Red, sometimes I really don't know about you. I mean, why you making these calls? Beating me down one second, then giving me a get-out-o'-jail free card the next. First altar boy, and then rug rat."

But Daredevil gave no response to that. Instead he widened the girth of his stride and clomped his hooves viciously against the grass more so than earlier. With only half his red staff strapped to the belt around the black armor, the neon lenses hid the wild determination blazing inside as his nostrils flared, and teeth clenched. Taking that to mean small talk was over, Castle kept his pace even with the Crystal Pony next to him. If what Red was saying was right, and the kidnapper got so desperate and half-tailing it from that surprise skirmish, it was a safe bet their deadline was getting much closer to do something about it in time.

She heard the blasts. She felt the shakes in the ground. Even the smell of ash and smoke were carried swiftly her way, invading her snout and tongue. Knowing full well the dangers of taking off here and now to be spotted by any of her rivals, this had to have been the most inconvenient part of her expedition so far. She knew they had to have been close. She just knew it. So, to play it on the safe side, the mare wanted to keep as low a profile as a Pegasus could possibly have.

It was just the aggravating jaunt that she took as quietly as possible through the foliage she felt was so tedious, right now. Of course, she has had to endure a sprained hoof, dislocated wing, and fractured rib, even all at once to boot. But it was knowing she was still in prime condition to hone her skills to the fullest, yet not seeing any sense of risking her position being given away, then having to run due to that.

If only I had some way of knowing exactly what’s around me, she thought for the thousandth time while making this sojourn. Otherwise, wouldn’t have to worry about risking another air show like last time.

She could not resist huffing with amusement after remembering another Pegasus mare much like herself. Confident, borderline cocky, eager for fun and excitement in something dangerous to do, and never giving up. Had it not been that blue coat against her own tan hide, as well as that chromatic mane with her dark highlights, some would have sworn they were related in some way. Especially with those fiery maroon eyes they had in common also. Hearing about her recent enlistment among the Wonderbolt ranks added some sense of pride for that kindred spirit.

Enough of that, she muttered inwardly, Getting pretty close. Her nose nearly made her choke on the freshly charred trees and ground, but she kept herself from making too much noise. She lifted her pith helmet to wipe the sweat off her brow before approaching further. Reaching the outermost reaches of the forest, the mare gaped at the many craters that demolished any plant life that once there. A few patches of flame remained on the ground, scattered and dwindling from the lack of fuel immediately available to them. Just what in Tartarus could’ve hap-

“Guessing you’re the park ranger around here,” said a dry voice from the left flank. Hoof raised and wings outstretched, she turned her neck casually to face the stranger and see a steel-blue Pegasus facing her compass Cutie Mark. The charcoal flat top of his mane and copper eyes reflected whatever sunlight penetrated the shady woods he lurked in. “Was hoping you could give some directions.”

Eyeing the crossbow, which he held at the ready, as well as the gear strapped onto him, she surmised the stallion to be some type of mercenary with Royal Guard training and expertise. Instead of answering his question though, she asked him, “You caused all this?”

“Was starting to think the same about you,” he shrugged plainly, “You know what they say about first impressions.”

“That…you could tell by which way they want to face and meet? ‘Cause I’m getting that you’re one of those that look at a pony's Cutie Mark first. Sorry, but you're not my type."

“Sheesh, three seconds in and already you’re worse than Webs. Boss sent you here, Safari? Y’know, to tie up loose ends? Throw off the scent?”

“I work alone. Got the occasional partner or sidekick, but mostly I fly solo.”

“Yeah, got that going on too.”

“And like I just said, I’ve no idea what happened here, or who was involved.”

“Well, here’s finding out you need that partner or not. What’ve you got, Red.”

“So far, she’s telling the truth,” another stallion said directly above her, “And there’s still no one else in the vicinity here.”

Twitching her ear towards the sound gave told her that the accomplice perched silently on the nearest tree branch, but there was a lack of any purring from the low, even voice to indicate her feline nemesis was there. Seeing how terribly cornered she has become, the golden mare smirked, “Not sure what’s more important to ask first. Who you guys are, or what’s the big catch you're after.”

“A little kid and her dad had been taken by some total nut-job,” the Pegasus replied, “Made our way here, where we tracked them and the sleeze-bag down.”

“We were about to follow the blood trail ahead of you, before you so boldly charged over.” Hearing the soft pat of hooves onto dirt and grass, she took to the side and glanced at the other stranger who landed. As she exchanged side looks to her new pals, the mare could make out the slight, yellow sheen of Crystal Pony hide beneath the black armor. It reminded her of the Storm Creatures she met once. From the small, twin horns and neon blue eyeballs, down to the same colored icon of their kind, she wondered where he got one like it to fit him. The long, red bar he wielded was nothing she had ever seen before. But judging by the swiveled tip on the bottom, half of it was unscrewed and missing.

“Wait,” she spoke sharply, “You heard me coming? As in, you weren’t following me?”

“No,” said the Crystal Pony, “Wasn’t expecting someone to come back to the crime scene so soon, but you were puffing and muttering so loudly I could’ve found you easily at night.”

Shoot! Really got to work on my mumbling again. Keep forgetting they could be out loud.

“Enough gloating, Red. Let’s get back to business. So what brings you here, Safari, you don’t mind us asking?”

“I’m an explorer, case you haven't noticed. I go out looking for rare, old artifacts. Sometimes, even powerful ones with a lot of magic.”

“An archeologist then,” nodded Red. “So, you’ve been tracking down something in this area that might cause more than competition?”

“That’s the basic gist of it,” she tilted her head in answer, “And if there’s a foalnapping around here too, then that couldn’t be just a coincidence. And the closest to any civilization here is the Crystal Empire. Unless there’s a secluded hut nearby, I’m guessing you and your Pegasus friend came down from there.”

“More acquaintance than friend, but yes. And you’re right.” Seeing the two of them lower their respective guards slightly, the mare relaxed the tension from her own leg and wings also. The armored stallion then continued, “There’s a good chance that our case might be connected to your search.”

“Wait a sec,” said the Pegasus mercenary, “You’re suggesting we work with this lady?”

“Given her occupation, I’d say she has a better lay of the land than we do, which isn’t saying much. Even though she’s got a map in her clothing, neither of us know how to read it as well, nor be as familiar with the terrain. And despite my enhanced senses, they could only do so much in responding to threats on the fly, or something dangerous living close to us.”

“These woods have loads of wild plants and animals that could hurt you, if you’re not careful. Sure, it’s not the Everfree, but without knowing what to look for, you won’t last a week out here. Even together.”

“That explains you traveling light, then,” asked the soldier, "All by yourself?"

That prompted her to refute back. “I’ve memorized this forest like the back of my wings, have a clear sense of direction, and know how to pack efficiently while on the move. Also, I can collect a few loose items lying around to make something out of ‘em.”

“What, like MacGyver?”

Before she could ask, Red cut them off, “The point is, Frank, there’s a possibility that there are more involved in this than we thought. So, we need as much help as we can get, before anyone else can reach us in time.”

“Fine by me,” Frank sighed, “So long as one of us watches our backs with this one. Like Safari, herself, said. Timing’s just a little too close for my taste. And I’m sure you could use the extra backup to keep tabs on me.”

“Only so long as you make it necessary,” Red said in rebuttal.

“Okay,” she said curiously. Just then, the mare noted with slight amusement, “And hey, since you’re not using my name, I’m guessing you know little or nothing about me.”

“Nor should we,” blatantly stated Red, “And you most likely know nothing about us, either. So, until further notice, best we keep it that way.”

“Wow. And I thought I had trust issues before.” Pausing briefly in thought, she spoke on, “Look, maybe the ones you’re rescuing are need-to-know. Some high-bit noble, tourist prats who got themselves too self-important for their own good. Sure, I’m okay with that. And maybe you two don’t trust each other either. Just, all I’m asking for are a couple names shared between temporary partners. I mean, I, for one, don’t like to be called Safari the rest of the trip. And, it’s Daring Do by the way.”

“Daredevil,” spoke Red after pondering her words, “And he goes by Punisher.”

“Look, are we getting on the move now,” growled Frank, “or we just going to stand here in the woods all day?”

They had made their way through the thickening brambles and vines that were overlapping all over the place. This sure brought back a few boot camp memories.

“So, from the top lady. What exactly are you after?”

The Pegasus put her map back into her khaki shirt, then answered Frank. “It’s one of the hidden magic stones made by Clover the Clever called the Arcane Goblet. A drink from that cup would allow the user to detect a pony’s disturbed or unbalanced magic by way of their Cutie Mark.”

“It’s so special, then why hide it,” he persisted.

“Nopony can say, for sure,” she shrugged back, as they traveled onward. “Maybe it did something that made Clover want to steer clear of it, and everypony else. But it’s said to enable the pony drinking from it to gain insight to another’s problems, internal or external. Huh, wonder what Dash’s crusader friends would say about that.”

“Dash? As in Rainbow Dash,” asked Daredevil, “You’re familiar with her?”

“She helped me out a couple times. Her Element pals also pitched in once. Made me realize how two heads can be better than one. And to trust in others, now and then. Now that you mention it, your name rings a bell too. Aren’t you the pony who took Dash’s case a while back? And weren’t you there in Canterlot for that big invasion right after?”

“More, or less,” he answered.

“That explains the armor then. Must’ve got something like that Tempest pony I also heard about. Might come pretty useful here, soon. And what’s your frie- sorry, acquaintance’s story? Frank Punisher, or some other?”

“S’far as I’m concerned,” the Marine uttered, “Frank’s dead. And the world’s concern, for that matter.”

“We’re not long now,” stated the Crystal stallion, before the safari mare could ask further, “You said your next clue’s in some concealed cavern.”

“Under the tree roots, rocks and bushes, yeah. Very easy to miss, if you’re not looking carefully.”

“With this guy,” Castle said, “It’s anything but easy.”

“Yeah, right,” she nodded in recollection, “The blind lawyer who’s also some fighting ninja. The papers all over Equestria were talking about it, after the Festival. Some super, mystical, ancient, oriental training of the other senses?”

“To some extent,” he tilted his head, never facing her. “Take two steps to the left. Careful. I’m picking up some unusual energy inside.”

Eyeing the pith-wearing pony pull back a few vines and branches, the Punisher saw her look into a narrow gap between two boulders, leading downward.

“There’s nothing I can see down there,” she stated, “Not even a glow of a torch.”

“Let’s just tread lightly,” said Red, “I’ll take the lead, while you two watch our backs.”

“Got something to help us see, Safari?”

At her huffing response, he saw her remove a mining torchlight from her helmet, then strapped it on. “No matches?”

“A luminescent stone,” she snapped, tapping a hoof on it, “This isn’t the dark ages, you know.”

“Let’s agree to disagree,” shrugged the Punisher.

“Quietly,” whispered Daredevil, “Someone else might be down here?”

The beaming light from the helmet softly reflected off the tight walls and ceiling around them, while they made the steep climb inside. Not a sound was heard. Not even the drip of water on the rock. Completely dry, without any hint of algae or fungus. It was almost as if the whole place were a dead zone. All they had to go on was the few remaining red drops that hardened on the stone floor. Shortly after, they found themselves in the threshold of a wide chamber, which was just as empty as the tunnel.

“Guess you were right,” Safari sighed, “Somepony beat us to it.”

“No,” said Daredevil, “the energy’s still here. The same signature as the one who took them.”

“Sure about that,” asked Castle, “No sign of Rider being here at all, from what I can tell.”

“As I stated when we broke out, it wasn’t Midnight’s arcane signature. I’m positive it was another, despite it coming from that guarded chamber. This is…different, somehow. There’s also something else. Another discharge, but...more steady and constant, like a waterfall. Right in front of us.”

“Maybe it’s some kind of concealment spell,” the mare surmised, “Hiding whatever’s in here with a magical camouflage. But, looking at it from a different angle…”

Frank Castle observed her movements, as she slightly tilted her head and shuffled her hooves to the right. Then she exclaimed, “There!”

Seeing Red’s ears flatten from the wild echoes that followed, the Pegasus stallion mirrored the archeologist’s movements.

“Those echoes indicate a wider chasm than this,” said the Crystal stallion with gritted teeth. What Frank saw soon after was something so strange and disturbing, that it made him shut his eyelids and shake his head.

“Damn… well, that’s just trippy,” he groaned after taking a second glance. Sure enough, what first appeared to be the opposite wall of the room, was actually some kind of refraction of the glowing stone by a paper-thin wall. Only when stepping away from the entrance, were the ponies with vision able to see past the subtle barrier of illusion. But looking beyond it, deeper still, was a sight that really rocked his core. “Son of a…”

“It’s them,” softly exclaimed his colleague, as the blind pony stepped through and tilted his ears toward the disturbing sight. “I recognize their heartbeats. They’ve been left here.”

Whimpering in a corner to the left sat the pale pink filly surrounded by a lime green cage of lightning. Nearby was the badly bruised and smoked fur of her father, knocked out, and whose legs were stuck in some kind of green slime. A third captive, though, was fully awake and shaking like a stampede were close by. The unicorn's dark green eyes shifted wildly with worry to the three newcomers, with signs of a bad struggle that reddened and scraped his gray coat.

“So, is-is this what you had in mind, Counselor,” the scared pony stammered, while Daring Do went over to check on the teary-eyed filly. “Some way to intimidate me? Have me right where you want me?”

“Tell us what happened, Mister Rider,” said Daredevil.

“Puff, like you wouldn’t know,” spat Midnight, “First convincing me to put my sister and her foals under the hooves of the Prince’s guard to get me to cooperate, then staging an attack by the pony you said was coming after me, have me captured by…some Changeling you got working for you, and then seeing the Prince and his family in danger with me? Yeah, I’d say that’s really good work doing your best, Counselor!”

“I’d have known he’d be this big a loudmouth,” said Punisher, “I would’ve steered clear of him, from the start. Focus more on his cousin instead, you know.”

“Rest assured, Midnight Rider,” Daredevil offered, “I won’t ask you anymore questions. By all accounts, I don’t have that kind of authority in your case right now. Please know, also, that your family’s safe and more help’s on the way.”

"Yeah, like I'd ever believe you now."

“You said Changeling,” asked the tan Pegasus, “Any chance you got a good look?”

“You bet I did,” the grey Unicorn huffed back, “When that creature came back to her camp at the edge of the forest, I then tried to lash out at her and escape. I had an edge on her, and everything. Or, I thought I did. Turns out these two she captured she used as a shield on me, then blasted me when I hesitated. Got a good hit on her before, though.”

“Her,” Daring asked further, “As in, Chrysalis? The former, crazy ruler of the Changelings?”

“I guessed that was the obvious disguise she went for, considering the timing of it all after my protective custody.” Rider’s constant glare towards the armored Crystal Pony made the implications less than subtle. “And look, your loose-cannon Pegasus is here too.”

“Yeah, not exactly comfortable about this arrangement ourselves, pal,” the aforementioned stallion grunted, “‘Sides, think he’d rather work with you than me, any day.”

“I’ll just keep lookout,” stated the blind pony, “Make sure no one else comes before we get you all out. It’d also might make things less…intimidating for you down here, Mister Rider.”

“Oh, what? And leave me here with him!?”

“Look, buddy,” said Daring Do, as Daredevil made his quiet exit, “I’m getting that slime off you and the other one. So, hold still.”

As she made her way with a small vile of liquid in her shirt, she noticed the steel blue mercenary approache the caged infant. He seemed to coo and soothe her with a hushed, soft tone. While the application of the chemical weakened the grimy substance, Punisher seemed to gain the crying filly’s attention, whose cries gradually stopped. With the green goop sizzling into vapor from his freed horn, she told Midnight to use his magic to help free himself and Prince Shining Armor. Afterward, Daring Do asked if he had some way to discharge the magic field around the small princess. Saying it was how he managed to break free last time, he quickly dispelled the green lightning, which allowed for the Punisher to gently pick her up.

Sitting on his haunches, crossbow set calmly onto the ground, the Pegasus mare watched him rock Flurry Heart back and forth, back and forth.

“You sure you want to-”

“Shh,” she snapped, stopping Midnight from saying how worried he was about someone he heard to be ruthless in the same room. And with a foal, no less. “Just…wait for a sec.”

In doing so, Daring Do saw that the Alicorn infant was actually drying her eyes and tucking her quivering muzzle into his chest. But all the Punisher focused on, was keeping a calm, steady composure, while holding the filly firmly but gently. And with that, he began to recite some sort of nursery rhyme.

“One batch. Two Batch. Penny and Dime,

Put ‘em in the oven. Set the time.

‘Penny,’ said Dime, ‘What did you bake?’

Penny said back, ‘I baked Frosted Flakes!’

‘Say, Dime. What’s your small, tasty dish?’

‘My best tray of little Swede Fish!’

One batch. Two batch. Penny and Dime,

Check the clock. Watch the time.

‘What can we do,’ asked Dime, ‘to wait?’

Answered Penny, “We can set plates!”

‘But first, we need a table cloth!’

‘Check the closet with pretty moths!’

One batch. Two batch. Penny and Dime

Take a peak. See lemons and limes.

‘I like this cloth! Makes me thirsty!’

‘Set that before we drink first, see!’

‘But what if we spill some, Penny?’

‘Then I’ll wash it like Aunt Lenny!’

One batch. Two batch. Penny and Dime

Set the table, and then play mimes.

‘Guess what I am,’ Penny asked Dime.

‘I don’t know. No good playing mimes!’

Dime said, ‘What ‘bout hide ‘n go seek?’

‘Can’t leave. But stay and take a peak!’

One batch. Two batch. Penny and Dime.

Ding! ‘Hey, look at the oven!’ ‘It’s time!’

Penny’s flakes were toasty and black.

Dime’s fish were goopy, sticky. ‘Ack!’

‘What’s wrong with our oven, Penny?’

‘Don’t know! Let’s ask Papa Benny!’

One batch. Two batch. Penny and Dime

Ask Papa Ben. ‘One at a time!’

‘You first set it to bake, Penny.

Then Dime changed it,’ said Benny.

‘First it was right, then it got hot.

But enough for fish, it was not.’

One batch. Two batch. Penny and Dime

Take turns baking. One at a time.”

To say that Daring Do was surprised by the spectacle would be underselling it by a lot. There sat a tall, dark, rough and grim mercenary of a stallion sitting down and rocking the little princess to a cozy, deep, peaceful sleep. He only stayed still, and quiet throughout when he finished his storytelling. And at that, the tan Pegasus decided to make her way outside.

“Wait,” grunted the freed Unicorn, “You’re not leaving me with him, are you? And that other one outside?”

“Just follow their lead, and keep quiet,” she whispered back, “The less attention we gain here, the better. I’m going to check on the perimeter for a bit. Hang tight.”

Making her way back out the tunnel entrance, Daring found the blind Crystal Pony standing totally still, until he tilted his head with a flick of the ears. She decided to just stand a good few trots nearby, and stretched her wings to make ready for her overwatch.

“You should stay,” she heard Daredevil speak plainly, “Midnight Rider at least needs someone he can fully trust with Shining.”

“What, unlike some other ponies in this group? And what’s up with all that back in there, anyway?” Knowing how well the guy’s hearing was, she figured the stallion caught on to her question.

“More to us than meets the eye, and let’s leave it at that.”

“I don’t think so,” scoffed Daring Do, “In the short time we’ve met, I figured you two to be a lot more than you make yourselves out to be. But on the simple side, you both want the same thing, right? Getting the foalnapped filly and her dad back home in the Crystal Empire, safe and sound. Why don’t you trust each other all the way? And don’t tell me it’s complicated, ‘cause I used to think that way myself. Believe me, you two can get things done a whole lot better, if you tried it out. Or, you can just make this harder on yourselves, or even worse for you than it already is.”

“For now,” he sighed in response, “just keep a lookout for the abductor. I’m heading back to meet up with those tracking us down to help. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”

Without another chance to argue, she saw him gallop deep into the woods from where she remembered they came. Puffing at her dark-palleted mane in annoyance, the mare sat and looked on of the direction the golden pony darted off. Hope I wasn’t that bad, before.

He figured that idiot would go off and pull a stunt like that. Like himself, putting his own life on the line without any back-up. Not that it ever surprised him much. It was just one of those things he both respected the hell out of and got ticked off about the guy. Having Safari wrap her shirt around the little tike before reviving the dad, he helped tending to the injuries in whatever fashion he could before taking off after Red.

And the way he just ran out on them all, giving little Safari the excuse of meeting with the others, that was his give-away bluff. Thankfully, she caught on too. Frank realized what that crazy, idealistic stallion was trying to pull, and it certainly would not work for him. Given his newfound ability to cover ground more quickly, Red should not have had a head start. Only, if he did not have to worry about the thick foliage from the treetops. So, he had to dart back and forth from the beaten trail, darting through tree and bush and keeping an eye out for anything he might have missed, or if Red gave him the slip. After fifty yards out or so, Castle then back-tracked over the hidden cave in case his reluctant partner decided to do the same. Turned out trusting his gut on that hunch was the right way to go, because he noticed the fresh tracks of two different beings. One was most likely Red’s new pony prints, but the others seemed jagged and uneven for any kind of horse, or even animal that he knew.

What the… Swack! Poom! The noises up ahead kept him on edge and ready for anything, as he made for higher ground and cover among the branches. Stealthily getting into position, he readied his crossbow. With nothing to get away from his notice, he scanned the area onward. Whish-whack-BAM! “Oof!”

Steadily he lifted his weapon to take aim, while slowly raising a thick branch with his wing. The sight below him only surprised him for a bit. But the battle Red found himself in kept him focused enough to take the shot when he had it. Just to debilitate it at one of its limbs.

Daredevil kept the tall, black thing back, while it showed long fangs and a snakelike tongue. It went for a hover with its insect wings to bring its body of riddled holes into the brush further back. The buzzing zipped from one place to the next, making it harder for the Punisher to get a lock on his target. Hopefully he could take out one of its wing, as soon as- Whoosh! HISSS!

The black thing dove right at the gold pony, pouncing on its prey in a blur that Red was barely able to block. Those fangs just missed his throat, as his front hooves held his stick against its neck. Next came a green glow brightly from the jagged horn it had, which then engulfed itself on Daredevil. The venomous teeth were now getting closer, and closer. When he saw how the thing somehow made itself stronger, or Red weaker by the second, Punisher decided to take his shot. Pew-pang!

A green bubble suddenly appeared to ricochet the arrow he fired, the thing’s green, slit eyes lifted to meet Frank’s own in time. With another green flash heading his way, Castle dove out of the tree to pull off an evasive maneuver.

That was more than enough to distract the monster, when Daredevil unscrewed the bottom cap of his stick to bring out his line of cable. Smacking it in the face from the other tip, he rolled over to the side then jumped up on top to start wrapping the wire around it. First muzzling its snakelike jaw, then leaping over it again to send out more line over, then under, then around all four punctured limbs. Gagging and hissing as it thrashed around wildly, but restrained, Daredevil stood over its head on his hind legs, pulling his stick up against its neck again. The bright glow from its horn flickered back on, until it was stopped by the sudden bang from Red’s helmet against it.

“You finally made it,” he grunted out.

“And what, let you plan a trap with your new pals to arrest me too? No, thanks.”

As he landed in front of the freakish piece of waste, the steel blue Pegasus made eye contact with it again.

“You think thisss iss over,” it snarled in a female, distorted voice, “Your preciousss princesses can ssend their minionsss to do their work. But no prisson cell, no dungeon, can keep me from essscaping! I, Queen Chrysaliss of the Changlingsss, will soon have my revenge! You will leave me an opening, and make another missstake, as you did leaving that Rider pony open for the switch during last night’s attack!”

“We could stop you from ever delivering anymore threats,” gritted Daredevil, tightening his grip, “End you right here, right now. But that’s not up to us to decide. Although, he might have other plans.”

Eyeing the gold stallion suspiciously, Frank heard the thing start to stammer. “Y-you-but you wouldn’t dare!”

“Like I said, I wouldn't. But that’s his call to make too, if he wants it. And this time, I won’t stop him. Maybe if I trusted him more, last night wouldn’t have turned out so badly. Maybe we wouldn’t have been locked up, so you could slip past security. Stop you in time. We’ll never know. But I do know I haven’t made things easier by going after him all the time. I’ll let him choose, instead of getting in the way, making things worse for everyone else in the process. What do you think, Punisher? Want to keep her down?”

"No! No, WAIT!"The thing met Castle’s copper eyes again, terrified and panicking under Red’s still-tightening chokehold. "Aszzz I told your friend. I-I-I know who took that pessky cup! Th-They offered it to me in exchange for Midnight Rider, after they ssummoned me with ssome other magical amulet. That'ss how I knew about him!"
It started to shake and squirm even more so, when Frank raised his crossbow to aim again. "Pleasssse, merccy! I know where to meet them! W-Where they thought I would make the deal and not double-crossss them!"
His flat, stern expression showed nothing but resolve in his face. He knew what to do. “One batch.”
The bug-like animal started to whimper at his stone-cold grunt. "Pleassse.

“Two batch.” It then shut its tearing eyes.

“Penny and Dime.” Click. Pew!

BAAAAAAAANG!

After suddenly screeching in shock and pain, the injured Chrysalis sent off a massive blaze from her horn before Matt could act. His whole body was sent flying and smashing against a tree trunk, distorting his hearing to the point of a screaming ache that pulsated his skull. Scrambling and shaking back onto all fours, he felt his way to the direction his stick blasted out of his hooves, a ring emanating in his ears for much longer than he would like. Grateful it was not as powerful as Frank’s siren used to trap him, nor even as long, he gradually regained his equilibrium. And before his hearing could fully dissipate the prolonging bell, he sensed the breeze against a large, insect wing as it brushed against the forest floor upon landing.

“You alright,” he called out.

“Nothing I haven’t shaken off before,” grunted Frank’s response, as his hooves stomped onto the ground to rise back up. “What you think happened?”

“Judging by…the lack of any trace here,” he panted back, “must’ve teleported out of the direct vicinity. After recognizing that energy signature from the castle earlier, it’s the same creature who took them. And given how she just strengthened herself taking my own energy somehow, she might do that to heal herself. No telling when we’ll meet up with her again, unless she wants to.”

“What? Thought I should’ve taken that shot? Not save that thing for more questions? ‘Cause last I checked, you still don’t want any killings.”

“I don’t,” shrugged the Crystal stallion, “Just wanted to know how you’re doing, since she got back up.”

“Hey,” Frank scoffed, “knew you and me both have gone through worse crap, see. And I didn’t exactly help out with that whole thing last night either, anyway. But Jesus, if I didn’t know any better I’d say you were possessed again, with all that talk of letting me off scot free.”

“Figured I should give you as good a chance to decide whether or not to be better. And, one more thing.” Whop! Catching the scent of liquid iron touching the grass from Frank’s busted snout, he huffed, “That’s for blasphemy.”

“Heh,” the Pegasus stallion chuckled, “Still the altar boy, huh Red?”

“And don’t forget it either, jarhead.” At that, both shared a genuine, heartfelt laugh between themselves for probably the very first time. And with that, they simply chose to sit down and fully catch their breathe, facing one another.

"I remember coming home early, after my second tour," huffed Frank, "I walk through the door hoping to make a big, surprise entrance for everybody, when I saw my wife catching Junior with crayons all over the wall. Like a little da Vinci, Michelangelo or whatnot, those soldiers colored all over. I took him by the arm and went outside and said, 'What's the matter with you? What were you thinking?' He looked me in the eye and said, 'I'm the man of the house when you're gone, and I wanted to be like you. 'Cause soldiers always keep home safe.' Huff, just one of those times I wish I could say that's exactly right, you know. Now someday that guy we rescued back there's going to deal with that exact, same thing with his little girl. You realize that sometimes, you just can't save them all, Red. No matter how hard you try. Even at home, see."

"But that doesn't stop us anyway, right?"

"Heh. Yeah, right. As if I'm worth saving." After hanging his head low for some time, Matt raised it back to pick up Frank's voice again. "That, uh, that cowgirl pony from earlier got me wondering. Did you actually try to break free that night? When I shot Dino?"

"She said I might've taken that chance. But I didn't. It was one of those moments when I was too weak to even stay the course. Like a sea-faring warrior. I took that easy path, instead of challenging myself to be better. But my priest told me that, despite my ill intentions, deliberately willing death on you no matter the ends, I was still spared of actually committing the mortal sin. So I guess that, to some degree, I should thank you for it. But what do any of you think?"

Following the place of the heartbeats he picked up were the brushing of leaves and thumping of hooves on the ground.

"Recon that's a tough'n for any of us to make," came Applejack's voice, "But I do know both ya's making some headway. As strange and rough's your friendship might be."

"We're not friends," the Pegasus marine grunted, "More colleagues than anything else."

"Just a step in the right direction, at best," shrugged the blind Crystal stallion. Though he could detect the smug glances she and Twilight Sparkle were sharing, as when they did when he sensed a blazing source of energy from their direction when they arrived shortly before. And with that, he picked up on Twilight's engulfed energy levitating his second baton to him after using it to trace his arcane signature. Given her lack of presence, he surmised Cadence was with her family and Rider, having soldiers secure the area.

"I'd say even more than that," Starlight Glimmer's tone beamed, "I mean, come on. When's the last time you two ever actually laughed together?"

"Don't push it, lady," said Castle. "Still doesn't make us buddy-buddies now."

"Agree to disagree," smugly spoke Daring Do. "Anyway, looks like some other ponies were in that cave before Chrysalis brought the Prince and filly in there with Midnight. So I'm guessing somepony got Clover the Clever's goblet first."

"That's consistent with what she told us before escaping," said Daredevil, "That they wanted to offer it to her for Midnight Rider."

"I would imagine Chrysalis had something special planned for a relic that could trace the state of a pony's heart and identity by the mark possessed," Twilight stated, "But now that it's in Horizon's grasp, that leads me to wonder what he could do with that, as well as the Alicorn Amulet, which he most likely had utilized to find it?"

"Nothing bright and cheerful is my guess," said Frank. "Speaking of which, Red. You really keeping that knock-off outfit you got? Maybe change the eyes at least, you know. 'Cause the whole black and primary color look you got going on is worse than the boxing getup I saw in the ne-" PYUUUUUUUR!

He could not even make out the cause of that rupture, much less figure out what exactly it was, except maybe a void into nothingness. He could pick up nothing but the sudden shock of sound that would have knocked him away, if not for it drawing everything towards it via powerful force of wind. Barely able to shake off the vibrations from that violent ring, Matt Murdock joint his batons and sent one wired end wrapping around a tree. Tightly he held onto it, as he picked up on the shift in air from the winged ponies.

Twilight grabbed a hold of Glimmer, as her wings pushed against the torrent gusts pushing them into the vast abyss from behind. Seeing little progress made, due to Twilight's developing prowess, Glimmer sent them closer with a poof that got them near Murdock. Frank Castle got a hold of Applejack while Daring Do were striving to fly away from it, themselves. As they struggled to make their way toward the anchored stallion.

"Come on," Matt shouted, as the Alicorn and Unicorn both reached for his outstretched hooves, his teeth firmly gripped onto the non-chuck. Both took hold of each one, as they looked back to find Castle getting nearer and giving Applejack over to them. But Daring Do was trailing even further away.

"You got to be kidding me," grunted the marine. Just then, he stopped flapping and allowed himself to be pulled back, then took off again when he was directly behind the struggling mare. "Got way less experience with these things than you, you know!"

"Not everypony's," panted Daring, "military trained like you! Don't worry...I'll make it!"

"Maybe! But, just in case..." Castle then hooked onto Daring's belt a grappling rope, as he fired a tethered arrow from his crossbow. Striking the tree with a thwunk, the arrow's rope tightened as it kept Daring Do from being pulled any more. But as he said, he had far less use of flying than any Pegasus, especially while also sharpshooting.

"FRANK," was all Matt could muffle through gritted teeth. He sensed the lack of air shift from Castle's wings, who broke his concentration in using them. Before he could think of a way to act, Daredevil could no longer hear the marine's heartbeat, as it was pulled into the gaping worm hole. And before anyone knew it, it closed, causing them all to collapse and hit the ground beneath them. Boom! "Oof!" "Oh!" "Ow." "Whoa, Nelly!"

"Nng. Frank."

Thirst for Righteousness ~ Part I ~

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.

That Try Mares' Souls ~ Part I ~

Disclaimer: I do not own, or claim rights to any of the characters or plot references from My Little Pony, or Daredevil. All rights belong to Hasbro and Marvel, respectively.

"It's all over, creep! Come out of here quietly, and give that back! Doesn't have to get ugly, you know!"

"Afraid you're too late! It's already started!" The tall, shady Unicorn chuckled as he levitated the stolen case up to his face, and began to open it.

"Oh, no you don't!" The Pegasus darted directly towards him, her bright blue coat colliding with his dark crimson. The two wrestled for the object without hesitation, sharing a grimace between themselves. Her wings gave her an edge over him, but his lime-glowing horn helped in gaining the better grip. He then sent a shocking bang that gave him the full advantage. It sent the mare airborne, and caused her to smash onto the stone wall that surrounded them. With a grunt, she slid limply onto the rocky ground. "Ooh! Ow..."

Just then, the heat and fumes began to pick up from all around them, as the smoldering fire from below rose even higher. It were as though the volcanic crypt they were in had been responding to this rise in tension and pressure.

"No doubt, it may seem a more suitable piece for a lovely mare, such as yourself," he chuckled again at the sprawled pony before him, "But I believe by wearing this, I can finally achieve what others before me had miserably failed to do: destroy the Elements of Harmony. Let's start with Loyalty, shall we?"

"No, stop!" A shriek came with the sudden force that knocked the box and its contents out of his beaming magic. However, his impatience fueled his fury, the ash now blasting all around flew more wildly, and he swung his reared back and neck sharply to shake his assailant off. Bam! "Ah!"

Crashing onto the floor, and skidding towards the edge, the young Pegasus felt the wind knocked out of her.

"Fluttershy!" The other mare was prompted to call back towards her friend, shakily rising from her fallen position, across the fiery chamber from that of the other two.

"It appears that instead, Kindness will take the first blow," muttered the stallion with a grin. The box floated up from the ground, and towards him once again, and he opened the lock to view what lied within.

"Didn't you hear what I said, creep," grunted the blue Pegasus, who huffed angrily through her snout, "No. You. Don't!"

Jumping off her hind legs, she whizzed with all her might and momentum to intervene. In doing so, she knocked the pony off the ground, and sent him flailing over her friend, off the precipice. She then saw the artifact flying out of its case, then vanished out of sight before she could even go after it. "Oh, no! The Ali-"

"Rainbow Dash," Fluttershy's scream took her focus away from what was lost, and down into the molten chasm, where the yellow Pegasus pointed.

"Oh, man," she muttered warily, upon seeing what she had done. "Not cool."

That Try Mares' Souls

~ Part I ~

Ee-inginginginginging. After the sudden sonic blast that struck him out of nowhere, he took his time to regain consciousness, and let the bells from ringing all around him. He allowed deep gusts of air enter into the nostrils and out of his lips. Slowly, and gently, he strove to rise up from the warm, earthen path he was lying on. However, his senses failed to prepare him for what he was about to encounter. When he fully recovered, striving to regain his bearings, the man was horribly shocked by the surroundings he took in.

To say that he was paralyzed and dumbstruck by what was all around him would be a gross understatement. He could tell, right away, he was no longer in Manhattan. But it was what he found himself in that was most troubling.

The open air, completely lacking of any fumes or exhaust, was fresh, light, and all-around pleasing to the nose. He could even taste it. The beaming warmth of sunlight refracted off of the rugged, yet even road that was nothing at all like concrete or asphalt. No hint of tar, or artificial pavement of any kind. He could make out the distant chirping that would have resonated better had he been around trees and tall buildings, as before in Central Park.

But it was something else. Something that was emanating from all around that took him greatly by surprise. Underneath the earth, and inside everything that he could detect, was a massive wave of energy. It vibrated into his very core, outlining an image in his mind of what lied before him. The clarity was beyond compare. This included the pillars beside him, which functioned as an arching entrance to the grand city beyond. He could not even describe how intense and organic this energy seemed to be. It exceeded that of modern-day electrical currents, generators, and gas heaters. All forms of artificial power in Manhattan were nothing compared to this. He was no longer in a world on fire. At least, not the kind he had grown used to. The closest he could describe it was a bolt of lightning, only ever-constant. Alive.

Letting this entire situation soak in, as seconds became minutes, he finally became aware of his own form. He had collapsed onto his hind quarters in shock, and felt something attached to him brush against the ground. His ears, now pointed and moved to the top of his head, kept turning, flicking and twitching in response to his constant use of them. A thin, but well-insulated coat seemed to have encompassed his skin, in place of his office clothes. Reaching to touch his face was a fingerless limb he had lifted. Instead of a hand was a singularly dense stump. When it made contact, he could feel his mouth and nose had elongated into a snout and muzzle.

It was then that he heard a voice coming his way, shaking him from his stupor. But there were no sounds he could pick up to indicate steps. Only the repetitive brush of wind and shifts in the air current was all he could sense, as he would whenever a bird flew by.

"Great. Just great. All, totally peachy! Just what the hay am I supposed to do, now?"

The scratchy voice that moaned nearer to him had a pitch indicating a female was on approach, with something of a tomboy demeanor. Clearly upset, she was complaining to herself, repeatedly about what she was supposed to do and how to get herself out of whatever situation she was caught in.

He picked up his weapon and cane, now tall like a shepherd's staff, along with his tinted lenses. Placing the latter on, he was grateful that the bridge was somehow able to adjust and fit onto his new snout. Deciding to strike a conversation with the stranger, he began, "Um, excuse me. Do you mind helping me? Think I've lost my sense of direction. Where am I?"

"Don't they usually tell you where the train stops," she groaned back. Although she had stopped, he could still sense the motioning of wings, only now as though in hover.

"Well..." he sputtered, acknowledging a set of tracks from behind. "I'm afraid I was hit really hard with something, then somehow found myself here. Could you please tell me where I am now?"

"Yeah, sure I guess. You're at the Crystal Empire, home of the Crystal Ponies and their leaders Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor, and Flurry Heart, their foal." Having her voice and his own echo between the gemlike pillars helped gain a mental image of what he was encountering: an equine-like creature, reared back in midair, who crossed her forelegs as would a pair of arms.

By keeping himself collected by this discovery, he spoke further, "Oh, well thank you, miss. I appreciate that. Guess I'm further from home than I would've liked."

"No problem."

"Um, forgive me for being pry. But is, uh, something wrong?"

"You bet there's something wrong, pal," she exploded in reply, "Basically I've been grounded from the Wonderbolts, the most awesome, amazing fliers in all of Equestria, who I dreamed to be a part of my whole life, and everypony on the street's looking at me like I'm some crazy psychopath, and on top of that, I can't seem to find anypony that's willing to help me deal with the stupid-head that got me in this mess, in the first place!"

"Again, this may be none of my business, but you mind telling me what sort of mess you're in?"

"Why're you so interested?"

"Just," he shrugged passively, "thought I'd lend an ear to someone in need of it."

"Well, gee. Thanks, pal. I guess talking about my problems might be worth your time and bits. But that doesn't really help me in actually, like, doing something about it, you know! S-sorry." She then turned to a low, bitter tone. "Didn't mean to yell at you like that. Guess I should apologize for doing that to my friends too, huh?"

"Don't worry about that, for now. Later, when you see them. Anything I can do to help," he said out of instinct, though unsure of what he could offer, given his own situation.

"Nah. Not unless you can point me to somepony that wants to take a crack at the nastiest mare I've ever met in some sort of courtroom."

"Wow, is...is she that unbearable?"

"Heh. I'm sugarcoating it, pal. Councilpony Cinch is the meanest pony ever! Of all time!"

Snigger. "Cinch?"

"Yeah. Abacus Cinch. Why? What's so funny?"

"Nothing. It's nothing. Just thinking how much I'd like to take a shot at her." He knew exactly what sort of jokes Foggy would have had in store here.

"Wait. You saying you're a lawyer too?"

"Yeah. Very well trained, I should think."

"You-you really want to help me out?"

"Well, so long as you're game, suppose I am too."

"Wow! Really?! This day went from really awful to totally awesome! Um, you really think you can, though? I-I mean, see what you can do?"

"I'm might not be familiar with...Crystal Empire laws and statutes, but I'm sure to pick it up readily."

"Yeah, I'm sure Twilight can hook you up with some books for that!"

"So long as I have the right source material to compensate, that'd be fine."

"Compensate for what, exactly? And what's up with the long stick and red shades you got there?"

"Well, let me put it to you this way. What color are you?"

"Uh, hello! Rainbow. Dash? Element of Loyalty? Oh yeah, right. I haven't told you who I am yet. But still, seriously? Are you like, color blind, or something?"

"Something. Though, more like everything."

"Oh, wow. Sorry. Didn't mean to-"

"It's alright. No harm done. In fact, I kind of got a kick out of your response."

"He-heh. You're alright, bud. Now that I think about it. You haven't really looked at me all the way, this whole time. Should've figured."

"So, you have someplace for us to get started?"

"Ha! Do I? I've got a super-sweet room up at the palace, like all my other friends. We're all tight with Cadence and Shining. You know, being the Elements, and all."

"Elements?"

"Yeah, you know. Elements of Harmony? Rainbow Dash? Twilight Sparkle? Applejack? Pinkie Pie? Rarity?"

"Sounds like I've got a lot of news to catch up on."

"Yeee-ah, guess so. Come on, I'll take you there to meet them."

Grateful for the use of his hooves to still hold onto his cane, he found himself guided by Miss Dash down the road towards the city, and the square, all entirely made of crystals and gemstones. Along the way, he was definitely sure of the vast amount of energy that emitted through the female's voice, conduct and position, most especially where he surmised her wings were flapping, as well as her flank section for some reason. Despite how impossible all this seemed, his objective nature as an attorney kept him from becoming a Doubting Thomas to what was clearly happening all around him.

But it was not just his highly enhanced senses that confirmed this reality simply as is. It was also the simple fact that this was all beyond his wildest imagination, which already spoke volumes. No way could he have dreamt any of this. He may not fully understand what was actually happening, but he is fully aware that it was. Miss Dash's responses, especially, were beyond disbelief. Despite anticipating her question of his blindness, as well as her providential need of a counselor, her own words, delivery, and character could not have been an invention of his. She was her own, independent being.

Led by the apparent Pegasus into the magnificent urban setting, he picked up on the colossal structure located at its center. It reminded him briefly of the Eiffel Tower he once saw in a book during his youth, but seeing no clear connection between Paris and this Crystal Empire made him cast that note aside. What actually caught his full attention, however, was an object at the base of the gemlike palace. It emanated a different level of energy from the hovering mare beside him, as it was somehow able to reach the innermost depths of his being, and connect itself to every other life form nearby, the crystalline houses, and even the road itself. He could practically hear its own heartbeat, sending forth such peaceful resonance into him.

"How long do you think she's been gone," asked Spike, who looked out from the window.

"About half an hour," said Twilight, "Hopefully she was able to let off some steam, from all the stress she's been under lately."

"Indeed. Having to find out somepony pressed charges against her, while also learning the full nature of her prosecution, without anypony able, or even willing to take her case, due to said circumstances. It must all be overwhelming to the poor dear. Surely we would have already helped this battle of hers to be half over, by now."

"Ain't that the truth, Rarity. I still can't understand why Twi, or even Cadence or Shining can help. All this, here legal jargon stuff's just aching my head."

"It has to do with the need for an unbiased system. The defense team, prosecution, jury, and the judge," Shining Armor spoke. "can't ever be connected to either side of the case, so that nopony's judgement leans on one side more than the other."

"Which is why," added Cadence, "in this case, neither Shining nor I can be the appointed judge, our role by default. Because of our personal ties to Rainbow Dash. It's automatically labeled a conflict of interest."

"Don't nopony trust you to make an honest decision about this?"

"Personal and emotional ties to one side can have even the slightest effect on the whole trial, Applejack," evenly stated the lavender Princess. "Despite anypony's best intentions. At least, that's what the Crystal Codex has stated."

"Exactly," nodded her sister-in-law, standing beside her brother, "Which is exactly what we must uphold, as Princessâ€¦"

"...and Prince."

"And basically everypony's afraid to defend Rainbow Dash because of that mean, nasty, super-duper councilpony that is working on trying to put Rainbow Dash in jail, who is the meanest, nastiest, hardest pony you would ever meet in any trial place, because nopony has ever beaten her, and that's why everypony's so afraid of her. She's basically a tall, mean, Unicorn version of Rainbow Dash, because she's very, very, very, very good at winning, and she really, really, really, really hates losing."

"Still can't believe nopony wants to help her. And that we can't."

"We know, Spike," Twilight offered her hoof to comfort the little Dragon, "But all we can really do is support and be there for her as best we can, and hope everything will work out for the best."

"And we'll be there to help in all we can too, Twilie. But right now, Cadence and I need to carry on with other tasks for today."

"The first being to check on Flurry, and see how well Sunburst and Starlight are doing with her."

"Of course, we won't be keeping you two any longer. And thanks for all you've done for us, already. And I'm sure Rainbow Dash feels the same way."

"Quite right," Rarity added, "Despite her recent outburst, she's more than grateful for all your help."

"We'll see you at supper, everypony."

"Good day."

"Yep. See y'all soon."

As they opened the door, however, Shining Armor and Cadence caught sight of the Pegasus in question, standing with a golden Earth Pony of brown-red mane and tail, short whiskers, and red, tinted glasses, carrying a red staff of sorts. Their friend was having her head held low, in slight bereavement.

"Hey, guys. Look, I'm sorry for the way I acted earlier. Just want you all to know I'm glad to know you've got my back, no matter what."

"Well, sure thing, Sugarcube. No need to fret about it, no more."

"Indeed. Bygones be bygones. Forgive and forget, darling."

"We just wish there was something we could do to really, really help," sharply spoke Pinkie.

"Just having you as morale is good enough for me," the chromatic Pegasus said, then perked up as she said, "Plus, I think I found somepony who can help."

"Really," beamed Twilight, "He said he was willing to...um, does he know about...whom he's facing?"

"Relax. I told him all about Cinch, and he's still game. He even got a laugh out of hearing her name, for some reason."

"Because it won't be a cinch," he teasingly said, in a baritone voice. But then evenly added, "All the same, I'm still a stranger to this region. Given how Crystal Empire codes of law are outside my jurisdiction, so to speak, I could definitely do with some assistance."

"Oh, would you like to get a thorough briefing on the Crystal Codex?"

"So long as I have...somepony to help walk me through it."

"Well that's really great news to hear. I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle, and I'll be happy to..." Extending her hoof, she saw the stallion bow his head cordially, then reach out with his own limb. Twilight then saw it stop before it could reach her, which puzzled her at first.

"Oh, right. Yeah. He's, uh..." At Rainbow Dash's paused statement, they all realized his visual impairment.

"Well, don't have everypony shake my hoof at once," he spoke with smirked amusement.

"S-sorry. I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle." She took it, and continued, "Element of Magic, and Princess of Friendship."

"A pleasure to meet you, your Highness."

"You can just...call me Twilight, if you want."

"Not all that comfortable with your position?"

"Just hearing ponies addressing me by my title, is all. I'll explain later."

"Sure."

"I'm Applejack. Element o' Honesty. Nice to make your acquaintance."

"Likewise, ma'am."

"Pinkamena Dianne Pie! Element of Laughter! But Pinkie Pie, or Pinkie, for short! Nice to meet you, Mister Blind-Pony-Lawyer!"

"Same to you." Her address to him brought a wider grin onto his countenance, much to her squeaking delight.

"Rarity, darling. Generosity. Charmed, truly."

"Thank you, Miss Rarity. A pleasure to meet you also."

"Whoa! Hey! Where's Fluttershy? Oh, there she is...uh, Fluttershy?"

At Dash's enquiry, the soft, yellow Pegasus in the corner turned to face the others, finally making herself seen. "Sorry, Rainbow Dash. I just...just...have a lot on my mind still."

"You're thinking about what happened again, aren't you?"

"Eep. Um, yes."

"Well, take it easy, okay Fluttershy? That's all over now. And with this guy's help, we can really put it all behind us. Hey! I just realized something. I never got your name either, pal."

As all turned back to the Earth Pony for his response, he pursed his lips as he offered a mildly hesitant one.

"Daredevil."

"Oh-kay...guessing there's a story to go with that."

"You've no idea," he smirked back at Rainbow.

"Explains your Cutie Mark, though."

"I'm sorry?"

"Your Cutie Mark," Twilight repeated for him. "The mark on your flank to show your most prominent talent, as well as your calling in the world. You...never knew about it?"

"Your parents never said anything about that," added Dash.

"Yeah. Yes, of course. Just...what about it?"

"It shows a double-D in red," the studious Alicorn replied matter-of-factly, "The way they cross together certainly makes for a trademark sort of icon, as would someone with a certain profession or practice, like an attorney."

"Or maybe a superhero," Spike proclaimed excitedly, much to everypony's bemusement but Pinkie's.

"I think you need to take another break from those comic books, Spike."

"Or maybe even a blind circus performer," Pinkie then added. "Like a blind acrobat, or a blind knife thrower, or maybe a super blind knife-throwing acrobat! That rides a unicycle! On a balancing cable!"

"Well, with years of training, practice and experience, I might be able to pull that off," said Daredevil, amused. "And who's this Spike I'm hearing"

"Spike the Dragon," he announced with huffed pride, as he marched towards the blind pony. "I may be a baby Dragon now, but even still, I'm proclaimed as the Great and Glorious-"

"He's very, well known here in the Crystal Empire," Twilight cut in with a chuckle, "Helped save the Crystal Ponies here a couple of times. So he's greatly exonerated as their hero."

"Quite the accomplishments. And I'm sure they're only the beginning of whatever greatness lies ahead of you. Right, Spike?"

"Yeah, right!" Seeing his confidence boosted even higher with that remark, Twilight sent a smile Daredevil's way.

"Well it's very good to meet you, Counselor Daredevil," said the pink Alicorn, as she and her husband approached him, "Princess Cadence of the Crystal Empire. And Princess of Love."

"Right."

"And Prince Shining Armor."

"Of course."

"Sorry to leave you on short notice, but we need to check on our little filly right now."

"Among other things."

"Of course, your Majesties," he nodded in their direction, after shaking their hooves with a wide smile. "We need to get started here, ourselves. Good to meet you also."

"Spike. Get my paper and quill ready. We've got a lot of work to do."

"On it!"

They strolled down the hallway of the cool stones that warmly brightened the castle's interior. With Twilight guiding Daredevil up front, and her satchel carrying the Codex they scanned through the evening previous, they approached the conference room. Skipping behind them was Pinkie Pie, along with the other Elements trekking onward. With Spike being carried by Fluttershy, who was one of the most reluctant members for this meeting, Rainbow Dash took the tail end of the troupe, half-wanting to dart out of there, the first chance she had.

"You sure you've got everything we need," Daredevil asked Twilight.

"Yep," she chirped back, "All our notes are right here. I even made a copy in Bridle with my new Bridle alphabet, slate and stylus for you."

"Thank you. Sounds like you've been waiting for the right opportunity to use them."

"Are you kidding me?! I've been wanting a chance to put these to good use, ever since my Mom and Dad got them for my birthday last year! I've always wanted to find time using it for my personal library, but this is a good start also! For legal purposes! I should get Cadence and Shining to get the Codex transcripted, right after this!"

"Good to know you take it wherever you go, too."

"Even if it's still an extra weight to pack and carry."

"Anyhoof," Twilight stated, ignoring Spike, "Just prepare yourself in meeting Councilpony Cinch. Don't let her trick you into thinking she's a nice trot through Canterlot."

"Yeah," Dash hissed from behind. "She's totally brutal."

"A very mean, scary, tough meanie if I ever met one."

"Not the most gracious of ponies, I must say."

"Yup. She ain't, no pushover by any stretch o' the imagination."

"Duly noted."

"So, you ready." At his silent nod, Twilight Sparkle lit the doors with her bright, crimson aura, then advanced with Daredevil by her hoof, and the others directly behind.

"Councilpony Abacus Cinch, good morning."

"Princess Twilight Sparkle," came the flat reply, from a light blue Unicorn with magenta eyes, and mane of various shades of lavender. "I see you've brought with you somepony to represent the Accused."

"Daredevil," he announced, offering his hoof, "And I'd prefer if my client be called Defendant."

"I see."

"As for the Prosecutor, I have yet to be introduced. I'd like to ask if the pony in question-"

"My client, Limelight, is unavailable for this conference, and most likely for the trial also."

"Of course." He then lowered his hoof. "I simply would like to ask if his health is any better."

"Fortunately, he's made a steady recovery from his fall. Wouldn't be the case, had he not used a force field on himself, at the last instant. This would otherwise be an equicide trial, pressed by the Crystal Guard."

"Are you kidding me," sharply snapped Rainbow Dash, "I nearly-"

"I'm glad to hear of it. As do we all. Will he take any visitors?"

"So long as the Accused-"

"Defendant."

"Does not make an appearance, which might prompt a provocation by...either parties."

"Agreed."

"What!?"

"I ask that my client please refrain from commenting, until after the conference."

"Huff! Fine."

Walking off to take her seat, Cinch waited for the others to follow suit. Placing her forehooves under her chin, and levitating her half-rounded spectacles higher up her snout, she initiated the proceedings.

"As I'm sure you are aware, this trial must be conducted by ponies with the utmost objective stance towards this case, without any deep affiliations to either the Prosecutor or the Accused."

"Defendant."

"As such, I ask that you please show me all credentials concerning your law firm. So as to confirm your lack of affiliation."

"That, I'm afraid is not possible, Councilpony Cinch," he plainly stated.

"Oh?"

"I have just arrived here to the Empire, and have just started my own practice."

"No references? Internships, or understudy?"

"They're...old-fashioned ideas, in my opinion."

"Education?"

"I'm expecting my certificate in the mail, as soon as I get a new address."

"Quite. This should be interesting. Is your previous residency anywhere near Ponyville?"

"No. I traveled from...Manehatten. And I understand my client, Miss Dash, has made only one visit to that major metropolis, so far."

"Only if you count-"

"Miss Dash." "Ugh, alright. Fine."

"Now, I'm curious to know what the Prosecutor was doing in the Crystal Empire's jurisdiction, given he's not of Crystal origin?"

"Mister Limelight is under the employ of certain Crystal Ponies here in the Empire. Here are his credentials, to show my own lack of connections to him."

After receiving the documents, Daredevil slid them over to Twilight, as Cinch continued. "Now, I hope you are aware of the nomination process for appointed judges in this hearing, given both Prince and Princess don't qualify for that power granted to them by the Codex, at this time. Since you are here, Princess Twilight, with some...uncredited pony that's simply stepped in to represent the Accused on such short notice-"

"Defendant. And yes, we have a nomination picked."

"Do you?"

"The returned Starswirl the Bearded," spoke the lavender Alicorn, "who has more than gladly accepted the nomination, given how well familiar he has always been with the Crystal Codex!"

"After your recent endeavors with him, concerning the Pony of Shadows, and your idol no less, Princess Twilight, I hardly see him as-"

"Princess Twilight Sparkle is not my client, Councilpony Cinch. Miss Rainbow Dash is. As such, they shared minimal interactions with each other, since they met. If any, at all. Therefore, no personal connections shared between them. Besides which, I understand Starswirl is a known legend and icon idolized by many Unicorns. Possibly including yourself, and your client."

After a brief pause was held, the Unicorn mare continued, "There still seems to be a slight prejudice involved in this nomination, considering Starswirl's reputation-"

"Which should not be an issue for either parties involved with this case. It's the jury, the members of which are randomly selected to participate, most of whom would be of Crystal citizenship, at least. It'll be up to them to select the judge based on both your nomination and mine, regardless of reputation. Especially considering whom he or she is filling in. I also see a need for somepony to at least have some level of respect for my client, given her position, so as to fully understand the gravity of this trial."

"As for my nomination," she quickly recovered, "Amethyst Maresbury, Head of the Crystal Library. The most educated citizen of the Crystal Empire, as well as the most efficient in maintaining order."

"Who, like all others, is readily familiar with my client by reputation, as much as Starswirl?"

"Quite. Then I see no further need for this conference to carry on any longer."

"Except for one thing."

"Which is?"

"The Defendant has brought up in her statement a missing artifact. Did the Prosecutor ever mention something of that nature in his?"

"That statement is evidence, and therefore will be made available to all parties, when the judge is selected. And I'm sure that's only part of her statement?"

"Yes."

"Then I see no need for a quid pro quo, given that this case involves the life of a pony threatened by another. Not some misplaced trinket."

"Yeah, 'cause I was the one-"

"Fair enough. Councilpony Cinch, good day. And we wish you the best."

"I'm sorry about my outburst. I knew that you needed to be the one to announce our pick. I was just too excited about Starswirl, that I..."

"Don't worry about it," he smiled, assuring Twilight. "So long as we maintain focus on the current task ahead of us, that's all that matters. Am I right, Miss Dash?"

"Yeah, yeah. Sure. 'M sorry too."

"I'd say that's just exactly what you did back there, pilgrim. Hoo-ee! Ain't never heard anything so head-spinning, before. Like a wagon wheel being chased by timberwolves. You sure know your stuff."

"Indeed. That Manehatten Academy education most surely paid off, darling."

"I know, right? I mean, she came up all 'Grrr.' And then you were all like, Bam! Then she was all like, 'Grrrrrrrrr.' And then you were all boom! Bam! Pow!"

"Yeah, you sure went hoof-to-hoof with her in the ring. Just what was that all about, anyway? With the Alicorn Amulet you were asking for?"

"Just looking for any signs of where the Prosecution stands, Miss Dash."

"Well sadly, that didn't seem to bear any fruit, dear."

"Actually, Miss Rarity, I might've uncovered something. I asked about an artifact, something generic, ranging from a tool, carving or spinning top."

"I love spinning tops!"

"She answered with the term 'trinket,' narrowing it down to a piece of jewelry, good-luck charm, or precious stone."

"Like the Amulet," concluded Twilight.

"Okay," muttered Rainbow, "so what's that supposed to mean?"

"Probably nothing," he shrugged, "or maybe her client is able to collaborate with your side of the matter. At least, in that regard."

"So he might actually believe he has due cause to litigate against you, Rainbow Dash."

"Meaning we might have our work cut out for us, yes Princess Twilight."

"Brilliant!"

"Indeed, Twilight. Simply marvelous thinking skills, if I may say so, Daredevil."

"Thanks, Miss Rarity."

"Simply Rarity would suffice."

"All the same, I doubt Cinch would allow for a slip-up like that, given her reputation. It's sure to have been deliberate. Her way of saying she still has the advantage."

"Then I recon that at least counts in knowing to keep our ears to the ground, and eyes peeled with that 'n, right?"

"Exactly. Now, if any of you wouldn't mind directing me to the nearest facilities."

"Oh, I can guide you there, if you want."

"Thanks, Twilight, but I'll manage. Just point me in the right direction, and however many turns I need to take."

"Oh, r-right. Of course. Sorry."

"Don't worry. Just wanting to help. Thanks."

He forcefully threw his glasses onto the floor, making him grateful he was much closer to the ground than he once was. But that was just it. He was no longer a five-foot, ten-inch, bipedal primate with fingers and toes. After keeping himself occupied with what he knew and did best for nearly a day, he could no longer ignore the fact that he was gone from his own world. The place where he was born and raised, where he had fought, bled, loved and befriended. That has all gone away, now.

Call it Divine Providence, or Retribution. It did not matter. What did was that he seemed to accomplish exactly what Stick wanted of him: cutting himself from all ties to humanity. And for what? This mystically childish, insane world of talking equines and mythical creatures?

Panting violently with inner turmoil and outrage, he made his way to the nearest basin. Picking up the running water that has cupped into his hooves, he rigorously washed and rubbed his face. He then filled his hooves with more of the cool, wet substance, repeating the process numerously, slamming onto the sink a couple of times after. He did not relent on his furious method of doing so, until his aggravated thoughts and flurried emotions were suddenly interrupted by the squeak of the opening door.

Sniffing harshly through his snout, he quietly heard the armored stallion clink-clank and clip-clop his way to one of the compartments available. He could sense the stiffening of movement, indicating the obvious guardspony had a slight hint of disturbance from seeing him in this state.

"Good morning," he huffed instinctively, without turning.

"I sure hope so." Picking up his cane from the wall, and craning his neck in search for his spectacles, he began to take deep breaths. Using his other hoof to place the glasses back on, he waved the staff with the other, and headed for the doorway.

Walking down the oddly warm, purely-laden crystal hall, he sharply detected the sound of steps ahead of him, delivered in perhaps a somber manner. The breathing seemed also light and truly silent for the immediate listener, and judging by the mental image he received from the steps' vibrations, the figure's head was downcast, suggesting that the individual was very discouraged, much like the second Pegasus from the troupe he met also.

"Miss Fluttershy," he called out. By how the mare stiffened, he startled her. So he tried again, when she turned her head in response. "Is that you, Miss Fluttershy?"

"Oh, yes. Um, hello, Counselor...Daredevil." Waving his staff before him, he made his way towards the halted pony.

"Thought I recognized those soft steps. Hope I didn't startle you."

"No, no. I was just deep in thought, um...again."

"Where're you headed, if I may ask?"

"Oh, there's a local farmer that has some sheep that need taken care of. He's short-hoofed, so I offered to help him. You know, while I was here."

"Very thoughtful of you."

"You recognized my hoofsteps?"

"Yes, well you see, I found ways to hear and recognize certain cues from each one of you. Miss Dash's flapping wings. Miss Pie's...spring in her step. And so on."

"Oh."

"Um, forgive me if I'm making you repeat yourself. But, what's your...Element, again?"

"Oh, I never did say, did I? It's, um, Kindness."

"A suitable title for a gentle pony. That is, at least by the sound of your voice."

"Um, thanks." Sensing the heat emitting from her facial area, he decided to move on with another subject.

"Ahem. Mind if I speak with you briefly, on your way out?"

"I-I-I don't think so. What about?"

"It's about this case," he said evenly, as he synchronized his movement with her steps. "From what I heard and can understand, you witnessed what happened involving Miss Dash and Mister Limestone."

"Um, I think it was Limelight. But, yes, I did."

"Right. Well, first of all, I want you to know that what you've experienced, and clearly still are, I went through exactly the same."

"You-you did?"

"I was eleven, at the time. Felt like everything I knew and loved was twisted and turned in ways I could never dream of. Not even in my worst nightmares. Til after that moment."

"Um, m-may I ask...what...what that was?"

"My...my, um, Dad...he was, um...was taken from me."

"Oh, my! I'm so sorry!"

"Was a long time ago, but I...I-I still hear the shot," he gulped, "Woke me up. Could tell his face was getting cold, when I touched it."

"I'm so, very sorry!" At this point, both already decided to sit on their haunches, well after stopping. He knew he had to make his point across, before hurting the tear-stricken, whimpering mare even further.

"It-it shaped me to...to who I am now. A-and in many ways, not for the better. But, there was one way, at least, that it did."

"W-what's that?"

"I learned how to be stronger. How to overcome my pain and fears, and channel all that energy I had in anger for the greater good. I honored my Dad's wish to learn how to fight with my head, instead of...with my hooves. Fighting for justice to those considered weak, boneless, and were without a voice of their own. As I once was."

"Why a-are you telling me...a-all this?"

"I'm sorry for troubling you further by telling you these things, Miss Fluttershy," he began, as he rose alongside her, heading for the main doors, "But I truly believe you can, and will become stronger from this also. Not to give in to that fear of reliving that memory, and think about how you can help your friend, who needs you the most. To testify. To tell, in your own words what happened. From what I can tell, you and your friends are all very good, kind, caring and full of virtue and strength. Especially together, it seems. And after this hard, trying time, you will all become even stronger than before."

As they walked past the doors, opened by a pair of guards on opposite sides, he stopped to let Fluttershy pass him. Warily, she strolled onward, then turned her neck towards his direction, with a slight uplift. "Thank you, um, Counselor Daredevil."

"Don't mention it, Miss Fluttershy. Just want to make sure we all do our part."

"Yes. I-I think I'll be ready to answer any questions you have. That is, once I'm done helping with the sheep."

"Sure. Some outdoor activity's good to help clear and sort our thoughts, or so I've heard. Heh. Take as much time as needed. I'll be using the Castle Library with Princess Twilight a bit more today. So you know where to find me."

After she shared a brief chuckle with him for his remark and bade him good day, the young Pegasus moved down the polished pathway. She now stepped with graceful firmness, despite her somewhat lean figure.

He felt relieved and rejuvenated in knowing he was able to help someone else cope with a problem, once again. As he turned back indoors to his intended destination, however, he picked up on the sound of a second set of hooves. He squinted, and listened with deep focus. They started to walk a good distance, before they trailed directly behind her.

The sun had already set, and she was starting to worry about how late it had become. She was greatly surprised by how much time flew by, but she knew she had to help with one of the sheep that seemed to be seriously ill. But she was glad for the time spent in helping the farmer, and the poor creature. That, along with the stroll she has gained from this day, had aided her in dealing with that emotional torment she recently suffered from. This also made her grateful for that pony to help her the way he did.

So, the late-approaching hours of night did not bother her so much. Just knew the others might be concerned for her, now. And the city and palace were well lit, just down the road. Thus, the outskirts of town did not seem too much of a fright for her, despite the sole lamppost that she was passing.

But she then noticed a shady, large stallion straightening himself, after leaning on it. It puzzled, and disturbed her slightly. But she strove to carry on, and simply greeted the stranger as she passed. However, she became very unnerved by his immediate turn to follow her. She could practically feel his eyes making daggers in her direction.

So as not to cause any sudden alarm, she casually began to open up her wings, and pick up speed and distance from him. But Fluttershy suddenly felt her tail held in a strong vice, before being roughly pulled back down. "Eep!" Smack! "Oof!"

"Listen here, Element hoarder," she heard him growl into her ear, terrifying her much more than before. "And you better listen good. Try saying anything in this coming court-fest, and you and your precious, cute little friends are going to pay. You got tha- Ah!"

Whack! Smack! Crrrinch! "Ow, hey! Wha- oaf! Oof! Stop, please!"

She had felt her long, rosy tail being released all of the sudden, before she heard sounds of violent impact and screaming. Curious more than afraid now, Fluttershy turned her neck to see what was happening behind her. Horrified by the display, she fully turned about, and saw a cloaked figure holding her attacker in a headlock, and twisting his front hoof from behind.

"Oh, for Celestia's sake, please stop!"

"Who are you?" Hearing that low, baritone voice threw her off slightly, for she could have sworn that sounded familiar, but more menacing.

"Nopony! Nopony! I'm just a stud doing what he's told! Ah-hah!" She could hear the twisted ligament grinding and popping evermore slightly, as it moved higher up his spine. This prompted her to flatten her ears with a cringe.

"Who sent you? Who's your employer?"

"Nguh-huh! By Luna, Cinch!" His screaming nearly made Fluttershy freeze completely still at his agony. What she noticed, however, made her move forward slightly. "It's Cinch! So please, just let me-ah-Haaaaah!"

The two, red sticks on some chord that were wrapped around his cloak reminded her of a single staff of the exact color.

"Lie to me again, this snaps in two."

"Oh, Celestia please, no!"

"Whom do you work for?" The voice, the delivery, albeit more sadistic, the red rods on his withers that were clearly connected by some sort of cable. She was then spurred on to confront this terrifying being that helped her.

"Stop what you're doing, right now, Mister!" Seeing his head jolt sharply from under the hood told her she got him to listen. But he did not loosen his grip.

"Ah-huh!"

Staring down at him from above, Fluttershy knew she had no need to face him directly to recognize the golden coat beneath that cloak. Hovering directly behind, she firmly, though gently scolded him.

"I know he scared me, and almost tried to hurt me, but that's no way to treat anypony! That's exactly what got my friend into trouble! Is that the way to honor your Dad's wish?"

The fact he remained frozen stiff told her he had been paying attention to her, most fully.

"Try touching her again," he muttered, "You will live to regret it." Whack!

At that, he sent the poor stallion straight into the ground, prompting stars to circle over the unconscious head.

"Call the Guards," he then addressed her, only slightly turning his own muzzle at her direction. "Make sure they question him. He's hiding something."

"How do you..." Instead of speaking further, she watched him storm off, taking steps off the main road, and out of range of the lamppost. Gradually, she saw him fade into the darkness beyond.

"Fluttershy!" Then she heard her pink friend whoosh in, then tightly embrace her, "Oh, Fluttershy, you're okay! We were getting so, so worried, because I just got a doozy from my Pinkie Sense about you, and if I got a doozy about you, then that means there might be something wrong! So I told Twilight to bring some Guards with her and the others on their way over, while I went ahead, just in case! But it looks like you're okie-dokie, so no worries there. So who's this guy sleeping on the road, anyway? Where'd he come from? Does he like parties? Or maybe just needs a bed? Who is he, anyway? Oops! Did I just ask that question, already? Silly me!"

...to be continued.

Author's Note

Bridle is Equestria's equivalent to Braille.

Synonyms for "primate" on Word 2013 are as follows: archbishop, bishop, prelate, cardinal, monkey, ape, mandrill, chimpanzee. Who knew? :P

Now for all of you wondering, I'm trying to integrate certain elements of the Netflix series, alongside the comics. So, feel free to offer any input of what you might want to see in Daredevil's background, or potential confrontations. Take care, and God Bless.

That Try Mares' Souls ~ Part II ~

"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.