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The night has begun again. And this time, it will not end. My spell is in place. My beautiful moon looms overhead in the night sky, a perfect sphere shining its soft glow over Equestria. I still remain out here in the Everfree Forest, within the derelict throne room of my palace ruins.

He will come... I know he will. If my friend loves the night as much as he claimed, then he will surely seek me out. He loves the night... He loves me... He will surely return this night.

I am looking out the empty window in the wall at the moon. My finest work. I am sure many are looking at it too right at this very moment. Perhaps they too will come to see its beauty in a new light. And yet... I have never felt more alone. My eternal night has begun and there is nopony here to bask in it with me.

I know I will not be alone for long though. When he returns, we... Wait... When he arrived here months ago... The bearers of the Elements of Kindness and Loyalty came searching for him... Does he share some bond with them? If he arrives here tonight, will the Elements come with him?

Even if they do not accompany him, it is only a matter of time before they realize something is amiss. They will eventually locate me and seek to destroy me once again. It is only a matter of time. I have been humbled twice before. What can I do to make certain there will not be a third time?

As I ponder this dilemma, I can feel something in the air... Something I am intimately familiar with. Six presences. A bold stalwart presence... One of the most tender kindness... Another of sincere honesty... And one of uplifting laughter... A presence of supportive generosity... And another of guiding wisdom. The six Elements of Harmony that I at one time used myself along with my sister. I can still faintly feel their forces in the air. Lingering here in mere residual quantities from their previous use.

Perhaps... Yes, perhaps I can form a counter to the Elements with what I have here. It will not be much, but... I attempt to draw them in with my magic. The same focus used to resonate with them in my possession. They recognize me and begin to swirl around me, becoming more visible as they become concentrated. The six colors are beckoned to me, recognizing me as a former mistress.

There is one spell I somehow remember. A most vile type of magic... Why do I know this? Where did I gain this knowledge? Regardless... Yes. I know it will be my saving grace. I focus, diluting the harmonic forces around me. Adjusting their polarity. Corrupting them. They turn dark, being mere tainted versions of their complete selves. I finish the deed, the six forces compressing and taking on solid crystalline forms. The six forms seemed familiar... The same shapes as those used by the six current bearers to defeat me some time ago.

As I behold these six dark forces before me... They seem familiar... Six colors in a...rainbow of... No.... No, I do not wish to remember that dark time. That era... It must be forgotten forever. And yet... By the stars, what have I created? I see it within these twisted gemstones... That horrid force that corrupted so many... They feel the same... Only far weaker... No, I will not make them anymore potent. They are weak now, yet they will surely suffice. I only need them for defense. Nothing more.

My tools for defense crafted...these 'Elements of Chaos'... I dismissed them, keeping them at the ready in case the need arose for them to be used. And yet... I felt a nagging fear in my heart. My friend... He has not seen me in months... Will he recognize me in my true whole state? Will he see a mare or a monster? My friend... Please remember me... I know I remember you... I only wish I could remember your name.

These forces I have crafted... I pray I do not have to use them... I know they are meant for mere defense, yet... I am certain they lack the power to do more than merely block the six Elements... I must craft another safeguard... Yes, those three pegasi facsimiles I imitated to lure away the pegasus who now bears the Element of Loyalty... They will suffice.

With my magic, I conjured them up. They immediately departed the ruins and headed east to ward off anypony who would seek me out to do me harm. They know what their mission is. I just pray they do not have to resort to inflicting harm on any of my subjects.

Hours have passed. And no one has arrived. What has become of him? This night was made to last forever just for my one friend... Has he forgotten me over the course of the several months since his arrival?

I was snapped out of my thoughts by a metallic clank at the far end of the throne room. But who was it? The six bearers having arrived to dispose of me once more? I turned and looked towards the far end of the chamber, ready to defend myself. "Who goes there?!"

The instant I looked... I stood transfixed. It was him. My friend. He stood before me at the far end of the chamber. Motionless. Watching me. Any and all hostility in my mind faded in an instant and was replaced by a deluge of absolute joy. I could not move. I could only speak. "It's... It's you!"

I could not stay away from him. I began to approach my friend. I spoke softly and kindly, trying to not overwhelm him with any sort of affection until he was comfortable. It had been so long since he last came to me. I did not want to startle him into fleeing, as much as I wanted to reach out and hold him close.

He replied, speaking of his personal enjoyment of the eternal night. My heart soared. He does cherish the night! And yet... I paused. His body. It was coated in a very familiar suit of armor. White wings, white vambraces, and a suit of plate armor bearing the color of my coat from long ago. The same armor we crafted for our human friends... Just before word reached us of the beginning of their invasion. I never thought I would ever see it used. And now that it was coating my friend, it looked... Brilliant. He was truly a feast for the eyes. And on his left arm... A grand shield with a sword hilt jutting over the top. The Celestial Sword. And the Lunar Shield... One of my finest creations. If he had come to me without any desire to do me harm, why was he carrying weapons of war?

I questioned him, and he replied with obvious wariness of the Everfree Forest and its more hostile denizens. Fair enough, I suppose. He requested that he come closer to me. And I wanted him by my side. I could almost reach out and hold him. And yet... My wariness was keeping me at bay. I have had nothing but enemies until this day...

Despite my heart telling me to cast my caution to the wind, I had to tell him to disarm before approaching me. I felt a smile creep across my face as he did so without a second thought. He meant no harm at all. Once the sword and shield had been removed from his arm, I beckoned him to come closer.

He almost seemed wary as he drew near. He inquired if I was the same being he had spoken to months ago. He does remember that day. I spoke honestly with a smile, telling him of my sincere appreciation of his compassion and speaking my name. He stopped mere inches from me, our eyes locked. And yet, his response caught me entirely by surprise. "You are more beautiful than I ever imagined."

I froze. An intense warmth filled my body. And that rush to my face. I must have been blushing. I could hardly believe that he had just praised me so boldly when none have ever done so before. No... He would never say that unless he held a very strong affection towards me. No mere commoner had ever even spoken that level of praise to my sister. And yet... He even compared my beauty to that of Celestia! The mare whose shadow I had always lived in!

I... I could not look directly at him. I was so taken aback. I spoke of the other titles I had been called. Frightening and hideous to name a few. He showed great disgust as he...held me in his arms. He had stepped forward and was holding me in a tender embrace.

His touch... Even beneath the cold hard shell of his armor, I can swear I could still feel it. Such warmth... He carried the look of a warrior with that armor, yet had the touch of the most peaceful dove. I just wanted to let myself go. To just melt into his grasp and let him hold me forever. But that did not last long. He suddenly stepped away while looking as nervous as a pickpocket who had just been caught with a coin purse in his mouth.

He seemed to merely be nervous that he may have stepped out of line since he understands that I am a princess and not a fellow commoner. But I did not mind. How could I? That man... He means the world to me. I pleaded that he hold me again, which he did. I could spend the rest of my days in his arms... He called me 'princess' once more... By that point, I felt that the honorifics were pointless. I told him that friends do not use such terms when addressing each other.

We spoke and chatted much like friends should. We discussed how my former self and I are now separate entities and how I regained my true physical form. He was very open-minded about everything I talked about, never once showing any harsh disagreements or revulsions. But then he asked me why I had brought about the eternal night once more.

And, of course, I told him the truth. That I had given him it as a gift since it is what he would have wanted. He was taken aback by this revelation. And he even seemed genuinely pleased by it as well. However... He then claimed that...the night needed to end.

I could not believe my ears. I had given him what he desired. What he loved. And he was insisting on throwing it away?! However, he then followed his claim with a calm insistence that he explain himself. I gave him that privilege. And the words that followed...opened my eyes to the truths I had been so blind to.

The night brings soothing chill to the world. I had known that all along. But if it continues for too long, that soothing cool becomes a freezing cold. And with such cold comes frigid death. My subjects... My people would perish if the night continued forever. I would never come to be loved... Only hated as a monster. And I would deserve it.

However, he then followed his words up with an explanation of the sun. It brings warmth and nurturing light to the world. But if exposed for too long, that gentle warmth becomes a sweltering burning heat. All life would wither. And the only thing protecting my people from such a fate...is my night.

Such wisdom in his words. And I, with centuries of knowledge contained within my skull, was oblivious to this simple fact. All those years ago, I nearly doomed my people...when the world was already in balance.

He then explained to me that there are certain spectacles that occur only at night if one desires to enjoy them. Including some sort of occurrence called 'Nightmare Night'.

I suppose it is possible that my people do appreciate the night... And perhaps the only reason I never saw or heard their praise was because their enjoyment of it is at its greatest when locked in a deep slumber. Resting from their endeavors during the day.

The night will end at dawn. As it is supposed to. My friend... He told me his name is James. It has been so long since I last heard a human name.

This man... He has saved me from repeating my mistake. We remained together, speaking casually. I felt so at peace in his presence. Like I could trust him with my entire being.

My thoughts were interrupted by a voice coming from far away. From the stairwell at the far end of the throne room. I could see a shadow moving along the wall of the spiraling stairwell. The voices... They could not be...

My friend seemed to sense my panic and assured me that they were of no threat to me. Yet, when they revealed themselves, I saw none other than the six bearers of the Elements of Harmony with the thrice-cursed gemstones being worn proudly upon them.

The Elements... I had been deceived. My friend had worked to lower my guard! I lashed out at him, my mane trying to strike him while he spread his great wings and retreated out of range towards the six bearers. I had gone to great lengths to prevent my demise. I will not fall now! Not again!

The six bearers tried to lower my guards with pleas of innocence, but I would not allow myself to be fooled. They bested me once before and having the Elements of Harmony in their possession proved that they had come with the intention of disposing of me. However, my friend then called out as well. He insisted with great urgency in his voice that they meant no harm at all.

If it were from anyone else, I would have dismissed it in an instant. And yet... I was torn. I was uncertain of what to believe. The ponies with the means to destroy me for good were standing before me, and yet the one man who had ever come to appreciate me was insisting that they were of no threat to me. No... I cannot trust them. But him...

Of course. Perhaps I could entice him to leave them. To remain by my side for eternity. I cannot let him leave again. He means too much to me now. I offered him what he desired. To remain by my side while being bathed in the beautiful glow of the moonlight for eternity.

The bearer of the Element of Loyalty adamantly insisted that he remain with them, but I knew what he would choose in the end. I spoke once more in a calm inviting tone. I knew it was what he wanted. I know he adores me. Just as much as I...crave him.

For a moment, there was nothing but silence. He was clearly torn as he stood there, an equal distance between myself and the six bearers. Eventually, he turned and walked towards them before stopping ten paces away and facing me once more. He then apologized to me, insisting that he was doing what was right.

I felt a sting in my heart at the sound of his words. I demanded that he explain himself. And he once more explained the chilling effects my night would have on the land along with one final line. That it is the right thing to do.

As if something had been waiting for those words, the air became heavy. A presence began to make itself felt. That presence... Similar to the Elements of Harmony, yet... It cannot be! Here?! Now!?

The bearer of the Element of Magic spoke aloud as the six Elements began to resonate in response. I too muttered aloud, unable to believe what was about to occur. I thought that Element was gone forever... Gone with the race that crafted it. And now... Standing before us... A member of that lost race was now unwittingly calling it back. The Lost Element has chosen its bearer!

White lightning sparked in the air. Crossing and bolting through the air while converging on one point above my friend. An orb of lightning began to form before suddenly collapsing in on itself and engulfing the chamber with a flash so bright, I had to shield my eyes. When the flash faded and I was able to look again... There it was. An elegant helmet bearing the colors of his armor. And a beautiful polished white gemstone tucked snuggly above the helmet's crest on the forehead. Its form was elegant and lovely. Two doves facing each other with wings spread, forming a heart in the gap between their bodies. Is it possible that...he bears a cutie mark on his upper arms like the humans that came before him?

They were confused, yet amazed. They could see that it was indeed an Element, though clearly not one of the Elements of Harmony. It seemed that my friend had some knowledge of its existence since he referred to it as the 'Lost Element' as well. I decided then to silence them and reveal to them its true identity. An Element crafted by human hands. An Element that represents the fluidity of the human spirit. The Element of Humanity.

The six bearers seemed baffled by the Element's title, although James gave a very deep explanation of its true nature. That humanity is never set in stone and can drift from being pure and peaceful to dominating and corrupt. Spiritual balance. That is exactly what it embodies. And James clearly showed the qualities needed for it to appear before him. A kind, yet imperfect, heart.

For a brief time, they bantered with him. Remarking about the Element on the helmet in his grasp while commending him for now being the bearer of an Element like them. Eventually, he spoke of his resolve to save me once more. And I made certain he understood I would not allow the night to end until all of Equestria had come to appreciate it for its true worth.

At least... That is what I said. But the truth is... I wanted it to continue on for him... And only him... I want him to stand by my side. As my companion... As my king of the night...

The bearers of the Elements of Magic and Honesty could tell that I was not going to yield or relinquish. And I knew I would not fall to the Elements again. Not with my safeguard in effect. They spoke to my friend. Insisted that the Elements be used. And after a moment of contemplation and gazing at me with a truly conflicted gaze, he finally threw up one hand and spoke his decision. "Do it."

He had no will to harm me. He only wished to stop me. That much I could see for certain. His love for me is strong... As is mine for him.

They could tell something was amiss while I gave them a calm smirk. The bearer of the Element of Honesty was especially aware of it. And I responded in kind, making them know that I would not fall this time. Like before, a growing field of white surrounded the bearers as the Elements began to work their magic. But as that familiar rainbow of purifying magic swept forward like a deluge, I cackled in staunch excitement. "Fool me once, shame on you! Fool me twice, shame on me! Fool me thrice... NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!!!"

All around me, I saw them beginning to materialize. Six sparking orbs of dark lightning. And then, they appeared. My six Elements of Chaos. And then... That dreaded rainbow of darkness burst forth from them. They formed a swirling maelstrom around me, shielding me from the Elements of Harmony. Once the two forces clashed, they both retreated to their resting places. Just like long ago...

The bearers were understandably baffled and shocked by the failure of the Elements to subdue me. Truly a first. They demanded answers, and I asked them if they really thought I would allow the Elements to be used successfully on me a third time. That lack of an answer clearly showed that they were taking me for a fool. I told them how I knew it would only be a matter of time before my sister discovered that I still exist and that she would likely move to bring about my end once again. And how these six Elements, the Elements of Lies, Wrath, Greed, Force, Betrayal, and Cruelty were needed to hold the Elements of Harmony at bay. And they worked flawlessly. They accused me of seeking to use them on my kingdom of Equestria, although I was quick to reassure them that they were strictly for defense and nothing else.

And naturally, with my defenses being a perfect counter to the one weapon that could crush my desires for good, victory for them is impossible. I extended my hoof to my friend and offered him a place by my side. And yet, he said nothing before stepping backwards towards the bearers. What was he doing? Why refuse?

He seemed to be whispering something to the six bearers. They too tried to keep their voices low to prevent me from hearing. Finally he stood up and began to approach me. It was clear what his decision was. He had chosen to turn against me. After all I had offered him!

With the use of magic contained within his gauntlets, he summoned the mighty Lunar Shield back to his arm. But not once did he draw his blade. Why? Does he seek to destroy me or side with me? However, he did not get far. The bearer of the Element of Kindness reached out and held onto him. She pleaded that he not attempt to stand against me. In fact, they all objected. And he responded in kind. His desire not to slay me, but to stop me.

I could see the deep attachment those mares held for him. It had been so long since I had last seen my friend... What had happened so far away from the palace ruins I had been confined to? Somewhere in my heart, I was torn. As wary as I was of them, I did not want to see the six bearers harmed. And yet, I...

Finally, my friend placed his helmet upon his head. And the sight that followed was simply...spectacular. The helmet's mane, a beautiful fusion of my own with that of my sister's, emerged from its backside. For the first time since its creation, that precious suit of armor was complete. I was left momentarily speechless. Such was its beauty. Even the six bearers could not contain their awe.

They bantered for a moment or two, seemingly so enthralled with that spectacular to the point where they had forgotten I was in the room with them. I finally barked out at them to remind them of the conflict at hand, regaining their attention. I demanded that he explain what he intended to do now that his armor was complete. And his words shook me deeply. That the sun must rise.

I felt...such a dull pain in my heart then. I knew that minutes earlier he had merely voiced his will. But this time, it carried a strong air of finality. His mind was made up. This beautiful gift I had woven just for him... An eternal night he and I could bask under together forever... And he had thrown in all away.

I felt anger take command of me for a moment. Using magic, I hurled a chunk of nearby rubble at him while roaring harsh words. In my heart, that action stung me. I did not wish to see him wounded. Fortunately, he easily countered. Using the magic of levitation provided by his gauntlets, he halted the flying stone rubble. He spoke of his gratitude for my gift...despite immediately claiming that the night had overstayed its welcome. I went with the feeling in my gut. I refused to end the night. He is so close... So close... Perhaps I can convince him to stop. To remain with me and allow the night to continue. Or perhaps... Perhaps deep in his heart, he really does hold only contempt for me. Just like the rest...

I demanded that he draw his sword if he was going to stand against me. And he refused once more, voicing words of wishing to save me. This...roused so much anger in me. My heart torn, not certain of what to believe anymore, I lashed out. Deadly lightning magic was launched from my horn, which he easily countered by blocking the strike with the very shield I had forged so long ago.

He showed no fear in those eyes. Only a deep concern. But the eyes can lie. I continued my assault, launching a constant stream of lightning towards him. And yet, I prayed that he would not be harm. Was he my enemy? I truly did not wish to believe it. He is the first... I... I just do not want to believe he would turn against me now.

Moments went by as I kept the arcing lightning going. And soon, I felt something grasp my horn and interrupting the magic aura surrounding it. He had pushed his way through the torrent of lightning and was now standing before me.

For a moment, there were no words. He looked me dead in the eye, but made no move to harm me. Instead, he spoke softly. Telling me that enough had been done. But I could not let it end. The night could not be allowed to end so soon. In desperation, I pulled my horn free and aimed it directly at his chest. I screamed my will before unleashing a much more potent burst of lightning. Lightning that I prayed would not be fatal.

A flash of light engulfed us for a brief moment as my spell struck. But when the light fade, I looked on in silence. Half in relief, the other in disappointment. My friend stood frozen, his arm over his face in fear. He did not have time to throw his shield up. The armor my sister and I forged together... It withstood the spell. Somewhere inside me, I felt a sense of pride. Pride in seeing that our masterpiece was every bit as stalwart as we had hoped.

He spread his great wings and retreated with a mighty flap, but was immediately harshly criticized by the bearer of the Element of Loyalty. In the brief moment the two of them argued, I cast another bolt of lightning magic. This time towards her. It was not one of fatal power, I swear. I was so sure... Perhaps if I made clear to him that their lives would be in danger so long as this struggle continued, he would lay down his arms. And this duel may end without bloodshed.

My friend reacted quickly. Using the spell of levitation, he moved the sturdy Lunar Shield before the bearer to block my strike. And after that, he...cast the shield aside. As if he was placing all his faith in the armor alone. Not quite a fool's gamble, to be sure. But I am still the Princess of the Night, equal in might to the Princess of the Dawn. Surely even I can find a way to crack his shell!

I became even more desperate. I used my powerful royal magic to topple two of the chambers towering support pillars towards him. I was only trying to intimidate him. Surely that would frighten him into ceasing this resistance. But he did not falter. Using the magic within his gauntlets, he managed to repel the massive stone pillars and even pushed them back to their original positions. Such might within those gauntlets. Same as mine...

I was genuinely baffled by how someone who at that time could have been novice in the arcane arts could have enough focus to maintain such a level of levitation magic. The armor... Yes, it must enhance the mental focus of the human mind to get the most out of the armor's magical capabilities. I do believe I had suggested that myself during its crafting. But I did not stop there. While briefly distracted by his friends, I charged him while engulfing myself in my swirling ethereal mane and tail. A drill of sorts. I had to close the distance between us. Indirect assaults were not reaching him.

His armor withstood my strike with ease. I pushed him through the air before holding him against a pillar before ceasing the assault. He spoke not words of scorn, but of complimenting. His expression showed no hate or anger. And neither did mine. I reached out to him, cupped his face gently with my hoof. In that brief moment, I had all but forgotten my fears and anger. We were together again. In the hope that he would listen, I pleaded with him. I know he wanted the night to end. Deep down inside his soul, it was what he desired.

I suddenly felt a harsh push to my neck. A simple force spell to push me away. It had come from the bearer of the Element of Magic. In my renewed frustration, I took my attention away from my friend and directed a wide volley of lightning towards them. But my friend was quick, swooping down to them and making them huddle behind him while calling the Lunar Shield back. He stood ready, the shield's great size being just large enough to protect them from my assault. A perfect frontal defense that leaves no openings. Just as it had been meant to do.

They called out to him. Insisting that I would not quit. And they are right. I will not stop now. Not until he is mine. But I knew that they would likely try to use the Elements of Harmony again soon. I retreated to the circle of the Elements of Chaos. They had remained where I had left them, ready to halt the purifying Elements once more. Then I heard them suggest it. Using the Element of Humanity with the Elements of Harmony.

The Element of Humanity is not at all an Element of Harmony. It was not created in the Era Before Time Began to Flow like the Elements of Harmony. That only came at least three millennia later. They could not possibly have such a connection. My friend seemed hesitant too. He was not even certain what it was meant to do. And yet, they tried once more. The bearers began to float in the air as the Elements resonated with them. But my defenses would hold. I would not fall now.

My friend entered the circle made by the six bearers. It was then that the swirling pillar of rainbow light shot skyward, its two halves spiraling around each other like the outside of a pillar. But it did not sweep forward. They continued to spiral. As if waiting for something.

And then I saw it. From below in the great white glow engulfing the seven bearers, I saw it emerge. A seventh color. White. Rising up between the two spiraling ribbons of color. And an instant later, they converged onto it before the rainbow of seven colors descended upon me once again. But I know my defenses will hold.

The Elements of Chaos reacted as expected, the dark swirling vortex rising around me just in time to block the Elements of Harmony. I balked at the foolish attempt of trying yet again only to be met with failure. But my words were interrupted by a new sound. Cracking.

My eyes turned to the six false Elements around me. I could still see them at the base of the dark vortex that was surrounding me. They were beginning to crack. The Element of Humanity... It was empowering the Elements of Harmony! A cornerstone from our former allies... And the Elements of Chaos were on the verge of destruction! If only.... If only the Element of Humanity had been crafted so long ago...

Fear has taken hold of me. The Elements... They will destroy me! I plead for him to cease. To not allow the Elements of erase me. I call and cry out for him, my defenses weakening with every second. And then... The sound of shattering. I see them. A wall of seven colors. And a mere second later, they are upon me once more.

I scream and push, absolute terror gripping my soul. The very Elements that once kept Equestria safe while in the use of my sister and I were now engulfing me. Overwhelming me. I struggle, pushing forward. Forcing my way towards the only person in the chamber who may still feel anything for me at all. Tears flowing in terror, I looked ahead to see him abandon the point of origin for the seven Elements and rush towards me. I reached out. I thought he was my friend. So...why...

Just before he reached me, I could resist no longer. The Elements swept me up and carried me away back to where I once stood. A great wail escaped my throat. How could he... How could he, after all that I offered?! When the Elements dragged me to the ground, they ruptured skyward with great force. It was then I felt it. My grasp on the night. It had been severed. And then... Loud crashes and painful poundings to my body. Stone rubble covered my vision. My vision became dark. And my hearing muffled. The world became black and still...

I cannot move... I... Why... My body aches... He... How could he... I offered him...everything he ever wanted...

I offered him the eternal night... I offered him my companionship... I offered him my love... My...love... And he...cast it all away...

I thought he was the first... The first to ever embrace me for what I truly am... I thought he loved me... Accepted me... Saw me as a mare where others saw a monster... I thought he truly...loved me...

I have felt the betrayal of my people... The betrayal of my sister... And now....the betrayal of the one man I thought...

I...cannot forgive... Not this... He... How could you... After all I gave you... All your sweet words... Your tender touch... All lies... Cannot forgive... Cannot forgive... Cannot forgive...!

My strength returns as wrath fills me... A wrath I have never felt... I escape my stone tomb. I seal off the only means of escape. Now... Only he is before me. You... I gave you so much! I gave you the night! I gave you my gratitude! I gave you my heart! My heart! And you cast it all away! Cannot...forgive!

He attempts to flee and I counter. I send him crashing through the stone wall of the chamber and into the forest below. No, it's not enough! I won't let him escape... Not after this most wretched of betrayals! I spread my wings and pursue, but he dives into the trees. I will find you... I gave you my heart, and I will take it back from your corpse!

The trees fall to the wayside as my magic surges in my wrath. I see him. I try to impale him from behind with my horn, yet he rises skyward. I turn and demand that he fall to his knees, the most powerful blast of lightning I can muster launching from my horn. His wing is severed from his armor, sending him plummeting to the ground. As soon as he falls, I am upon him with another spell. His pauldron fractures under my might. And then...he drew his blade. A weapon to slay me with. You will not escape me now, traitor!

He dare not approach me and my lightning magic cannot pass his shield. I use levitation to beat him into submission. The ground and the trees are my weapons as I smash and flail him about. I finally drew near once he was too ragged to attempt to stand, my horn directed at his face. He pleads for forgiveness, but his words are hollow. I know he holds nothing but contempt for me. Contempt I willingly return a thousand fold!

I would have ended him right there if not for a blow to my face from nowhere. I knew that voice that then called out to him. The voice of Loyalty.

I gave her one chance to retreat and leave us. A chance she turned her nose up at. Her speed was unlike any I had seen before. A rainbow streak through the air as she whirled around me, landing stinging blows on my body while my spells always failed to reach their mark. But her speed is nothing if she is shackled by the might of my magic!

She froze in the air, my magic grasping her with unseen chains. I see panic in her eyes. She knows her doom is nigh. She pleads, reaching out for him. But he is too late. I unleash one of my deadliest lightning spells into her. She is engulfed, sent falling away from me. Her body becomes still. She ceases to draw breath. The bearer of Loyalty has paid the price for preventing the traitor's justice.

But I cannot be so sure. I drew in close to make certain she would not rise again. But... The light coming from the Celestial Sword... It was drawing near rapidly. I only narrowly backed away before it could lop off my head. He stood between us, sword drawn and ready. But... That face... Such wrath in it... The likes of which I have never seen in the eyes of a man... And the Element of Humanity on his helmet... Gone were the twin white doves. In its place... The form of twin gray falcons. With hooked tail feathers and wings of blades...

I had no time to prepare for his assault. With terrible war cries, he rained blow after blow on me with terrible ferocity. I felt the sharp stings as the unyielding glowing blade cut through my flesh with ease, my crimson blood being spilled. My wrath was quickly replaced with raw terror. I became desperate to survive, focusing my magic into my horn. With a thrust, I rammed my horn through his midsection. His armor yielded, the combined force of my horn strengthened by my potent magic. He retaliated in kind, stabbing his sword deep near my shoulder. The pain was unlike any I had experienced, sharp and deep as the blade inside me. I pulled back, as did he, our blood coating our bodies while the white glow of his sword became crimson as the blood that coated it. I could feel his blood as well, the fluid oozing down my horn.

The fury in his eyes began to fade as the Elements atop his helmet became white, the falcons becoming doves once more. But my terror had not subsided. He spoke to me, seemingly oblivious to the mortal wound in his torso, but I heard no words. I was reeling from the pain, that look of wretched anger still etched into my recent memory... This is the cruelty humans are capable of... And with the might his armor and weapons bestow upon him... What were they thinking? Why allow such a tainted race back into this world knowing what they are capable of?!

I knew then what I had to do. I had to protect this world and my people. I could not allow this demon to bring ruin to this realm again... My wings spread wide and carried me into the steadily brightening predawn above the canopy. A spell that even the armor would not resist... Why do I know this cursed spell... Why is it in my memory...? But... I cannot let the questions that flood my mind distract me. Yes... I feel it... Deadly dark magic... It will engulf him... Consume him... It will surely...

What... This feeling... Light...from the sun...just beginning to peek over the horizons... So...hot... This feeling... Mother...? Even you...and Father wish to see me gone...?

My strength is leaving me... Falling... Darkness clouds my vision...

My body has gone numb... My wrath and terror faded... All that remains...is sorrow... All I can do is weep...my tears flowing free... The world has forsaken me... My sister sees me as a monster... My own parents strike me down... And now...the only man I felt I could give my heart to...has turned his sword on me...

This is the third time... I thought for certain...that this time would be different. That I would finally be...loved... Am I...truly a monster...and nothing more...?

My eyes are heavy... I can see him above me...blood pouring from the gaping hole in his torso. His sword is still in his hand... Just...end me... I do not...care anymore...

He responds to my final plea and stabs his sword downward. But not into me. Merely lodging it in the ground near me. I could not believe what I was seeing... I pleaded with him to end me... To end my misery. Instead, he shakily dropped to his knees before me. His armored hands reached out and tenderly lifted my head before cradling me oh so lovingly in his arms. I felt it again... That tenderness through the cold metallic shell. I then heard him whisper in grief, his tears cascading down onto me. Words of not desiring to end me, but desiring to rescue me.

Moments passed. I voiced how I was so certain he must hate me after his wrathful assault on me that left me bleeding and broken. But...he claims to have no memory of it, even though it happened mere minutes before. It was...in response to his friend being... He had been consumed with fearful anger... To protect her... He only sought to keep her safe from harm and used all he had to stop me from ending her. And yet...he did not hate me... How... What did I do...to deserve such a wonderful loving friend?

He has finally realized the direness of his injuries. He fears he may die... But...I cannot let that happen. I will not allow this wonderful man to die. But as I prepare to cast my magic, that voice came again. Loyalty. Wounded as she is, she crawls towards us with eyes filled with fierce determination. The Lunar Shield resting atop her like a shell, she pulls herself to us and forces herself to stand. Such willpower... I could see it in her eyes. Tears flowing free, but with a face full of wrath, there was something budding in there. Something powerful that I doubt even she fully understands now. She warns me to not dare harm him again, but he insures her that I am not their enemy. She protests further, but I too confess I only wish to set things right. She finally relents, and I send my spell directly into the gaping hole in his torso where the armor does not cover. It closes the wound, undoing my work and only my work. If only I could undo the harm brought on by another...

He turns to speak to the bearer of Loyalty, but she... She collapses into his arms as her tears flow freely. Such relief in her voice. They must share a powerful bond. But my friend then asks her for a favor that I am hardly surprised to see her hesitant to grant. To go seek help for me. And from my sister and my other half, no less.

She is quick to point out that her physical condition is...less than desired. I am quick to restore her to pristine health, undoing the harm my wrathful lightning inflicted upon her. She was still understandably wary of me, though she still agreed to go seek aid. With a flap of her wings, the bearer of Loyalty ascended through the canopy and was gone.

My friend and I spoke very little during the wait. He held my head in his arms, never too tightly and never loosely. I felt so cold... And yet I could feel his warmth even through the cold metal gauntlets that stroked my mane. Even after all I had done to him... After all my bitterness drove e to inflict such terrible harm on him... His love never faltered... And neither did mine... I wanted to tell him... I speak my heart to him... But I could not. Not so soon after I had inflicted such harm on him. Once the crisis had been truly resolved... Then and only then...I would tell him... My savior... My guiding light...

In time, we felt it. Tremors through the ground. And soon, they fell upon us. The five other bearers of the remaining Elements of Harmony rushed to us in the darkness. Their words of relief were short lived and descended into words of shock and disgust when they saw his blood staining his armor. His wounds had been healed, but the blood that had been spilled served as a reminder of the meaningless struggle that had occurred minutes before. One raised a heavy branch of a tree and prepared to club me with it. I had no reason to resist. I accepted my fate and my punishment.

And yet, he intervened once more. My friend threw up his arm to ward off the blow. They shouted at him, telling him to let go of whatever delusion he had. And yet he still defended me. And finally, he brought to light a fact that even I had overlooked.

The Elements of Harmony had spared me.

I had no safeguard to protect me once the Elements of Chaos were shattered. And yet...I still remain whole. And alive. Is there hope for me yet? Can I ever return to the throne with my sister?

It was only then that they relented. The bearer of Kindness then stepped forward. Her eyes showed some wariness in them, yet also deep concern. The first thing she asked, albeit with some shyness, was whether or not I was going to attempt to keep the night constant. Only by then I knew it was against my kingdom's best interests for me to do so. I responded in kind, vowing to allow the sun to rise. It was then that she became only the second person since my fall from the throne to offer me her friendship. An offer I all too willingly accepted.

One by one, the other four bearers stepped forward and formally introduced themselves. Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight Sparkle. Although I had to silence the bearer of Laughter as I was in enough pain already at the time and did not need a migraine piled onto it. How do they endure her longwinded banter?

Finally, my dear friend's stamina reached its limit. He collapsed to his knees, the blood loss he had suffered bringing him to the verge of sleep. He called his friends close, but I then heard a word that caught my attention as Fluttershy replied to his request for their attention. And upon inquiring, it was then that I discovered that he and the bearer of Kindness are sworn to each other.

I could not help smiling at her, seeing the chemistry between them. Doves and butterflies... How fitting. And yet... I felt a dull throbbing pain in my heart. The sting of disappointment. I... I want to be happy for them, and yet... I cannot help but feel seething envy. Bearer of Kindness... Fluttershy. You know not what this man is... You...are most blessed.

I looked on and listened. With his exhaustion bringing him to the brink of slumber, he placed his faith in them to keep me safe until aid arrived. He placed great emphasis on his desire to see me alive and well once he awoke, sparking a glimmer of glee in my heart. To hear him voice how dearly he cherishes me... There are no words... I cannot even begin to describe how honored I felt to hear him speak.

They promised to fulfill his request without the slightest hesitation and with noticeable enthusiasm. And then he fell backwards. Right onto my beautiful billowing tail. He seemed surprised to find himself lying upon it and even requested my permission to remain. And I was all too willing to allow him to.

His eyes closed. His body became still. The bearer of Kindness drew near and from her lips came the most tenderly sweet voice I had ever heard. And in that voice were the words of a lullaby. Moments later, I felt my friend become heavy as he drifted away into slumber. Sleep peacefully, my beloved. You have truly earned it.

My newfound friends gathered around me and guarded me from all sides while I did all I could to remain stationary to keep my wounds from spilling anymore blood. I feel rather weak, but I must remain alert. I do not wish to fall asleep myself. Fluttershy remains close to James at all times. I can see worry and fear in her eyes. Do not fear, child. His love is too great to allow himself to be taken from you now.

The bearer of Generosity, Rarity, has apparently taken it upon herself to keep me entertained while we await the bearer of Loyalty to return with aid. She has introduced me to a type of game called 'tic-tac-toe' and seems to be using pebbles and twigs to create a grid of nine squares. She explained the rules and I found myself...winning every single time. 35 games in a row. What is that layman's term? Beginner's luck?

I see Twilight Sparkle nearby seemingly jotting down a journal of sorts. I recall during the first night I saw my friend in the Everfree Forest, before I regained my physical body, that he wrote a journal of sorts before turning in for the night. Perhaps it is something he does often and she is writing one in his stead to chronicle what has occurred tonight due to his current incapacitation.

I must say that the presence of these five mares leaves me feeling rather safe. They are all quite different from each other, yet are universally pleasant to be around. I can see why my friend was so careful to keep them safe.

Before long, Rarity requested that we try a new game called 'checkers'. And like before I found myself seemingly dominating her. Although she seemed to rearrange the pieces to give herself an edge over me while I turned to Speak to Twilight Sparkle for a moment. A threat of being taken to the dungeon was all it took to get her to put things back to how they were before.

However, I soon felt...a vile presence. Somewhere not far from us... It feels so alien, and yet...so vaguely familiar. But...surely it could not be her. Is it even possible that she could still be alive millennia after that dark age came to an end?

My guardians noticed my wary gaze and reminded me to remain still as I began to try to raise myself to a standing position. In the end, it was Twilight Sparkle who volunteered to investigate. I warned her to be exceedingly watchful before she departed.

Minutes later, I felt the foul presence become more distant. And soon after that, Twilight returned to us. She insisted that she had located no such evil entities out there. Perhaps that corrupted wretch did retreat when she drew near.

Soon after that, our eyes turned skyward in response to a sound. The sound one hears when something shoots through the air at great speed. And then she descended through the canopy before us. The bearer of Loyalty. Her friends were all too relieved to see her again as they rushed to her side. And soon after, something large descended through the trees. A wooden wagon of sorts though the design was new to me. Probably a more modern design. And with it, I saw her. My sister. Celestia...

I felt a creeping sensation of dread engulf my very being upon seeing her. I was not certain to feel blissful joy, seething envy, or paralyzing fear upon seeing her before me once again. She greeted her subjects and quickly implied about my dear friend's well-being. She showed shock at the sight of his own blood staining his armor.

My sister then stood before me as fear began to sink in. I was powerless to resist anything she may unleash upon me. That gaze she was giving me was by no means a look of sisterly love or genuine relief or joy. It was a deep revulsion and rage. I knew then what she was intending to do. I was about to meet my end from the sister I had long envied.

Much to my shock, the six bearers gathered before me. They pleaded and insisted that I was no longer their enemy. But Celestia... She refused to believe a word they spoke. She then cast her deadly magic towards me to end my life. But Twilight Sparkle... She resisted to the very end, casting a barrier to hold the fiery beam at bay. A futile effort. My sister's magic far surpasses anything a mere mortal can conjure. But she struggled to resist as long as she could, pleading for my sister to relent.

I could not let this go on... I know all too well the harm I have done to this world and to its people... I spoke out softly, telling them that they should not have to defend me any longer. Those words caught my sister by surprise, her assault ceasing in an instant. Twilight, exhausted as she was, did not lower the barrier. I then spoke to my sister, having resigned myself to my ultimate fate. I swore I would not resist her, but pleaded for one final request before receiving the headsman's axe. To be allowed to live long enough to see my savior awaken. So that I may thank him one last time for being the one person I have ever met who never gave up on me.

That look in her eyes showed a very deep expression of shock. My guardians pleaded further, even resorting to bribery. Finally, my sister spoke to me, asking if I still intended to keep the world under a shroud of eternal darkness. And I replied in kind, admitting that my friend had made me understand the errors of such an act. And if my demise was the only thing that would allow the world to live on in peace...I welcomed it.

My sister then promised that my life would not be ended, prompting Twilight to lower her barrier. She then stepped forward and spoke to me with a stern, yet compassionate tone. At first, I was horrified to hear her deny my request. But my spirits soared to a new height as she instead proclaimed that I would be permitted to see him as many times as I desire. Her trust in me was shaky at best, but she knew then the lengths my new friends had gone to in order to keep me safe. Celestia... You are as tender and wise as I remember.

I soon found myself floating through the air towards the carriage nearby. Before I could lose sight of them, I turned to my newfound friends and thanked them all. I was placed upon a tray of sorts while several ponies dressed in white garbs began to draw near. There are many bizarre devices around me. And now...he is resting beside me as well.

James... You seem so serene in your sleep. I can almost feel your satisfaction. You tried so hard tonight to be there for me...and you succeeded.

My strength is waning. The toll of the struggle tonight is finally drawing me into a much needed slumber as well. I will join you soon...my darling.

I wish I had met you long ago. If only you had been there the night I turned on my sister... You surely would have been able to stop me. There is so much I want to say to you. So many words I want you to hear. And yet...I cannot speak them. For your heart now belongs to another.

This bitterness in my heart... How I wish you could be mine. You would make a fine king, if given the chance. But fate clearly has other things in mind for you. Regardless, while your heart may belong to the bearer of Kindness, my heart now belongs to you forevermore.You are my guiding light.

Rest now, my beloved. I will always be watching over you. I will always be blessed to have you in my life. Thank you... Just... Thank you.