The Light Will Terrify The Dark

by Microsoft-2016

A human has a normal life. But then he gets transported to Equestria and is now a lion. He soon falls in love with a purple alicorn. But does he have the guts to tell her and how will she react? Some events might be related to either A Journey Beyond Sanity or Bride/Daughter of Discord. I love both of those fanfictions btw. Very good.

29. Chapter 29: The Pony of Shadows Part II

Disclaimer: All MLP:FiM characters belong to Hasbro and DHX Media. I do not own any of them except my OC.

Previously…

"That's the last entry! Starswirl's final words before he vanished!"

"You can verify that this journal really belonged to Starswirl the Bearded?"

"Indeed. From the looks of it, the last thing he wrote before facing the Pony of Shadows."

"The Pony of Shadows was just as real as everypony else."

"We never met the other Pillars and we were too young to understand the danger we faced."

"All those legendary ponies were real too?"

"But what happened to them all?"

"And where did they go?"

"When the Pony of Shadows returned for revenge, the pillars fought him. With all the artifacts they had, it caused a portal to open trapping them and the Pony of Shadows in a place called Limbo where time is non-existent there. What became of that seed they planted is what is now known as the Tree of Harmony that sits past the Everfree Forest. I wanted friends who cared. They rejected me and the darkness welcomed me. I tried to come back at them, but they trapped me. When I return, I will destroy everything."

"YOU JUST SOLVED A THOUSANDS YEAR OLD MYSTERY! OF COURSE IT'S A BIG DEAL!"

"You summon me at your peril, Starswirl. Once I defeat all of you, this realm will embrace the darkness as I did so long ago."

"Drawing me here will only make me stronger. You will never defeat me!"

"What are you doing?"

"We came to contain you."

"Uh, what just happened?"

"Well, if you were paying attention, Starswirl cast a spell to bring the Pony of Shadows here so that he and the rest of the Pillars could banish him to limbo."

"Starswirl and the rest of the Pillars sacrificed themselves to save Equestria."

"Starswirl's spell was one of the most powerful feats of magic in all of history. It'll take years of study before we fully understand it."

"I think I understand Starswirl's spell!"

"They used their magic to open a portal between worlds, to Limbo and pulled the Pony of Shadows inside. Basically, mostly what Zach said earlier. Starswirl thought the only way to trap the Pony of Shadows in Limbo was for the Pillars to take him there."

"So they got stuck too!"

"The thing is, I think I can get them out."

"I don't know. Opening portals between worlds didn't work out well for me. Are you sure it's safe?"

"This has to do with different dimensions, not changing the timeline in history."

"Equestria would be safer with him in it. We have to save him."

"But you'd be savin' all the Pillars, right?"

"That's the thing about Limbo. It isn't one place or another. It's in between, so time stands still. If we can pull them out, it'll be like they never left."

"If I'm right, we need to find items that are connected to the Pillars in some way."

"How would we know what to look for?"

"Luckily, Starswirl took a lot of notes."

"Um, Twilight, what are you doing?"

"I'm not doing anything!"

"I guess we don't need to figure out who should get what!"

"I can't believe I'm going to meet Starswirl the Bearded, you know, outside of my dreams."

"I can't believe you're actually going through with it."

"I'm all for pushing the envelope, obviously, but this is pretty out there for you, Twilight."

"What's "out there" about saving the most legendary ponies of all time from a thousands year-old prison?"

"Unless the "most legendary ponies of all time" knew what they were doing and we shouldn't mess with it."

"That may be true, but there is an unresolved conflict that needs to get fixed."

"I'm sure Starswirl and the Pillars did the best they could back then, but magic has come a long way, mostly because of the work they did."

"Starlight, Starswirl the Bearded is the greatest wizard who ever lived. The chance to have him back in Equestria is worth the risk."

"That's good news."

"Good work everyone. Let's do this!"

"What-What has happened?"

"We brought you back."

"WHAT?! No, no, no, no! You must undo what you've done!"

"Why? I mean, I don't think I can."

"You cannot bring ONLY the Pillars back."

"Oh, no…"

The Pony of Shadows kept laughing and I was ready for battle. This creature said "Your pitiful attempt to imprison me has FAILED, Starswirl!" Actually, it hasn't. For over 10,000 years, you've been stuck there, but you didn't notice that because it all happened in a blink of an eye for you. Starswirl tried firing his magic, but it was no use. Dang it! Starswirl said to Twilight "You must return us to Limbo. It's the only way to stop him." Actually, you're wrong. Twilight said "I only figured out how to bring you back." Sunburst said with sweat dripping down his face "Working on it. No table of contents!" It's a journal. There is no table of contents, you fool. The Pony of Shadows said "Allow me to assist." He sent spikes through every stone and used his strength to break it all apart including destroying Starswirl's journal. He said "There! Without the power of Ponehenge, you banishing spell is USELESS!" I said "Oh really? How about this?" I lit up my scepter and it restored Ponhenge and Starswirl's journal. The Pony of Shadows growled at this and said "You want to play this game eh? It's called DESTROYING THEM AGAIN!" He did it again, but I restored them again.

I said "As long as you keep destroying it, I will keep restoring it." I heard Starswirl say "You have studied my writings. Surely you have SOME OTHER PLAN!" Twilight said "No. I just wanted to save you, I didn't think-" before getting cut off by the Pony of Shadows who said "Don't fret. When I extinguish the light and hope of this miserable world, you won't remember any of this." He fired his magic at Starswirl and Twilight said loudly "NO!" She fired her own magic at the Pony of Shadows and he hissed in pain. He said "This one is almost as strong as you, Starswirl. But even in my weakened state, she cannot stop the might of shadows!" He fired again and Twilight did the same. However, I stepped in this time. So did Starlight. She said "Lucky for her, she's not alone." I fired my magic from the scepter and it pushed back his magic like how Nightmare Moon couldn't withstand the elements before being banished as we saw in the Season 4 premiere. Now just imagine that with red magic.

The magic hit him and he screamed in pain. When the scepter's magic hit him, it permanently weakened him from ever regaining strength at all. That will be important for later on. Starswirl said "Know this, fiend! We will NOT rest until we find a way to return you to Limbo!" We all gave him angry glares while I gave him my death glare. He snarled in annoyance and then said "NEVER! Your days of glory are through, Starswirl. Now my dark power will reign and you six will BOW TO ME!" He shot himself up in the air and disappeared causing the sky to be clear again. Rainbow asked "Um, where'd he go?" He went to the Hollow Shades to draw power. But he will soon find out that won't work. Somnambula said "That is a riddle we must unravel. And quickly." It won't take that long. Mage Meadowbrook asked "How long have we been gone?" I said "Over 10,000 years."

This caused everypony to go into shock and Starswirl said "Then my spell worked before it was meddled with." Hey, Twilight didn't know okay? Calm down. "And the realm has been at peace for ten millennias!" Not exactly, but yes in some ways. Pinkie said "Well, we did have to save everypony from Nightmare Moon and Discord and Chrysalis and King Sombra and Lord Tirek and there was that one time when Starlight traveled through time and almost destroyed life as we know it! But that's all in the past." It sure is. Flash Magnus said "If you are truly this accomplished, we will stop the Pony of Shadows twice as fast together." That is very much true. However, Starswirl was skeptical. He said "We shall see. It is an easy thing to say you have saved the world. It is quite another to do it." I said "You want proof? I got it right here for ya!" I flew up in the sky and began replaying the timeline of the defeats of Nightmare Moon, Discord, Chrysalis, King Sombra, Sunset Shimmer, Tirek, The Dazzlings, and Starlight. After that, everypony's jaw dropped. Even Starswirl's dropped.

He said "How did you do that?" I said "Well, since this scepter wields the Tree of Harmony's magic, everything is connected to it along with the rest of the pillars." Starswirl said "Hmm, that could be of use. Be that as it may, the problem of locating the Pony of Shadows remains and this land is vast." Sounds like you haven't been up to date with the modern times here. Rarity said "It sounds like you need a map. Luckily, we have just the thing." We all went back to the castle and into the throne room. Starswirl said "Something about this magic seems familiar." He pointed his magic at the map and it caused it to turn into the Tree of Harmony. Everypony gasped at this. Rarity asked Twilight "Did you know he could do that?" It doesn't surprise me. Twilight replied "He's Starswirl! He can do anything!" I can do anything too, you know. Starswirl said "This map and, indeed, this very castle are grown from the seed we planted over 10,000 years ago."

Yep, it went from the Pillars, to the Tree, to the Royal Sisters, to the Mane Six, to the castle, and to the map. Rockhoof said "Then it did work!" Of course it did. Sunburst asked "What worked?" What Starswirl just said. Somnambula said "Each of us infused a crystal seed with our magic in hopes that it would grow into a force for good." Well, you were very successful in that. Mistmane said "We wanted to leave something to protect the realm in our absence, but we never dreamed our gift would become so powerful." Well, that's what happens. The light will always terrify the darkness. Nothing can stand against the light, not even darkness itself. That applies to you Satan. Applejack asked "Y'all mean the elements came from you?" Of course they did. However, this left everypony confused, so of course I had to explain what happened.

I said "When the Tree of Harmony was planted, it took thousands of years to grow. After it had been full grown, Celestia and Luna found it in the Everfree Forest so they could stop Discord. From then on, the elements were connected to them until the banishment of Nightmare Moon. That's when it broke the connection. When she returned, the elements went over to the "Mane Six" which is what they call it, and it now belongs to them. After they defeated Nightmare Moon, the elements have always been connected to them. That's how it works." Starswirl said "Hmm. I guess that makes sense. But it still doesn't explain what they are." Pinkie said "You know, the sparkly crystal things that grow from the Tree of Harmony and represent each of us?" Yes, we know what you're saying. "Laughter. Honesty. Generosity. Loyalty. Kindness. And magic!" She is forgetting one element. Me. I'll explain in a second. Somnambula said "They are reflections of our own elements of hope, strength, beauty, bravery, healing, and sorcery." Twilight wanted Starswirl to acknowledge her, but he ignored her, but instead paid attention to me.

I know I'm pretty cool, but give Twilight some credit too. Yeah, she might have made a big mistake, but that's no reason to act rude towards her. Then again, he doesn't know squat about friendship. Sad, but true. Otherwise, the Pony of Shadows wouldn't have existed in the first place. Meadowbrook said "We had no idea our small seed would bloom into the living spirit of the land." Like I said, the Tree has a lot of powerful magic and will continue to dominate the darkness for probably as long as this Earth remains. "I am glad our mantles have passed to such capable ponies." Don't forget about me, Meadowbrook! Starswirl said "More importantly, we no longer need Ponhenge to send our foe back to Limbo." You could still, but magic has really advanced over the last 10,000 years. "We can use the stored magic in this "Tree of Harmony." I don't know if that's a good idea, Starswirl.

Twilight said, "But doesn't a banishing spell take a lot of power?" Yes, yes it does. Banishing is kinda frowned upon since it never really gets to the heart of the issue. But sometimes, you have no other choice. But you can't let that fester forever or else, it will have a devastating toll on you. "We'd have to sacrifice the elements for that." Starswirl said "Mm hm." That doesn't seem very smart, Starswirl. Fluttershy asked worriedly "They'd be gone. Forever?" Apparently, that's what's happening in Starswirl's "smart" brain of his. Twilight said "Starswirl, I don't think the Tree can survive without the elements. If it dies, Equestria will suffer." She has a point. However, Starswirl objected by saying "If the Pony of Shadows has his way, your land will NOT EXIST! So unless you have a better idea…" Okay, that's it. It's time I show him what happened when the Elements weren't in the Tree.

I said "Twilight is right. In case you don't believe me, I'll show you. Tell me how you explain THIS!" I blasted the scepter's magic onto the Tree and caused it to turn into all that nasty stuff that we saw during the Season 4 premiere. This caused everypony to go into shock and Starswirl asked me "How could you do something like that?" I replied "Because I have overpowered alicorn magic. Anyways, This is what happened to the Tree of Harmony when the Elements were not present. It caused Discord's plunderseeds to take over the Tree of Harmony and caused the Everfree Forest to go out of control. Also, everything that has happened in history can be brought up with this scepter." Starswirl asked "but how is that possible?" I said "Because this scepter right here is an Element of Harmony." Everypony said "WHAT?!" at the same time. Even Twilight asked me "How is that possible? It's never even existed until now." I said "Let me explain. It initially did not exist, yes, but when I came into this world, it appeared on the Tree of Harmony. This crismon red ruby on the scepter I'm holding came from the Tree of Harmony."

Applejack asked me "Then how come the tree hasn't died yet?" I said "Because the Tree only needs six elements to survive. It can function just fine without the seventh. That's why the Defense Scepter wields the Tree's magic. So I must object that "plan" of yours, Starswirl. Because if the elements are gone, then the scepter will not be able to protect Equestria anymore." Rainbow asked "What exactly is the seventh element?" I said "Sacrifice. Considering the fact that my title is Prince of Defense, it makes sense. The only reason I'm extremely overpowered is because of this scepter right here. If the elements disappear, then my title would mean nothing and the scepter would no longer be able to defend Equestria. If you must come up with a plan to return the Pony of Shadows to Limbo, you better look at other options." Starswirl was about to object, but I could tell he knew I was right. He was there when I was crowned prince, so he didn't have anything to say really.

He put the map back to the way it was and said "Our foe will seek dark places from which to draw power. I will prepare my spell, so that we may strike as soon as you find him." I said "Oh, that's the other thing. When the scepter's magic hit the Pony of Shadows, it permanently weakened his power so he could not regain strength no matter how hard he tried." Everypony was shocked once more, even Starswirl. He said "I think you're more useful than I thought. This will be much easier since he can't draw power. Thanks for telling us, Zachary." I said "No problem, Starswirl. Anytime." Rainbow said "What are we waiting for?" Nothing, really. Flash Magnus said "I like your spirit!" Yeah, those two would get along so easily. Everypony said "Uh huh! Oh yeah!" However, I noticed Twilight had walked out of the room with a sad expression. Nuh nuh. No way! I ain't letting this one slide. When Twilight isn't happy, it's part of my duty to comfort her. I saw Starlight had noticed too, so she went to follow her, while I just went into my shadow form and went into the library.

After I had made it to the library, I heard Spike say "What about this one?" I don't know. Twilight said "Sea Pony etiquette isn't going to help right now, Spike." I don't know how that's related to the current issue at all. Starlight said "Uh, Twilight? Are you OK?" You think? I highly doubt it. Twilight said "I just unleashed ultimate EVIL and doomed Equestria because I was obsessed with meeting my IDOL! Why wouldn't I be OK?!" I said coming out of my shadow form "Because you made a mistake and claim there is no way out." Twilight just banged her head on the table and Starlight said "You didn't know that was going to happen." Twilight said "But I should have listened to you and left things alone. Now the Elements of Harmony will be lost to fix my mistake. Plus, Zach's scepter will no longer work." I said "Not necessarily. There is another way to stop the Pony of Shadows. But it isn't the way you think."

Starlight said "I think he's right. There is possibly another way." Spike said "If there is, Twilight will find it." I said "The answer you seek isn't going to be found in the books, but with the Pony of Shadows himself." Twilight looked at me and asked "What are you talking about? The Pony of Shadows was pretty evil to me." I said "That's where you're wrong. Yes, he's evil, but there's a reason why he's acting this way. Also, I can't say anymore or else the Tree will punish me and I don't want that." Twilight rolled her eyes and picked up the next book. She picked it up and said "Portal gate… portal keys… portal spells. YES! If the Pillars can hold open the gateway to Limbo, a powerful pony can do the banishing spell herself! Do you know what this means?" That you are a complete idiot and don't understand why Stygian turned to darkness? Yeah, sounds about right. Spike said "I can stop carrying books?" Maybe that too.

Twilight said "The Pillars don't have to leave Equestria! Even though we'll lose the elements, we'll have the ponies who created them. And the Pony of Shadows will be banished for good!" I said "Is banishment the only option? Why are you so naive? You don't even understand how the Pony of Shadows turned to darkness." Twilight looked at me and said "Starswirl was not lying when he said the Pony of Shadows was a villain." I said "Where did that come from? Did you base that off what he said? Not even he has all the wisdom. I think you're just being biased because you adore Starswirl and don't ever question him without feeling guilt." Twilight said "I AM NOT!" I said "Are you? Doesn't seem like it to me. There's something you need to know, Twilight. You can't just consider anyone irredeemable based on what you hear from other ponies. You have to listen to what they have to say first, and then try to reason with them. If it doesn't work, then you banish them. But don't just go and straight up banish him without listening to his side of the story."

"Besides, aren't you the Princess of Friendship? You are supposed to help anyone make them feel like they belong. If you consider the Pony of Shadows irredeemable just based on what you hear, then you aren't doing a very good job at being princess. I'm just saying." Before Twilight could say anything, Starlight said "I agree with Zachary. I think there is another way that doesn't involve banishing." Twilight thought for a moment and sighed. She said "That's great, but we have more pressing matters right now." Sure you do. Go with that when you never believe me. "Starswirl knew what he was doing when he cast that spell." Sure, he did. "If I can make it even better, maybe he'll see that I take magic as seriously as he does." Even if I disagree with you about this issue, I still think that you take magic seriously. Nothing will ever make me think otherwise.

Starlight looked away and I said "Come on, Starlight. We have other things to do right now. It seems pretty evident to me that somepony cares about their idol more than what's right." Twilight gave me a glare, but I ignored it. It was true and I could sense that she knew I was right, but didn't want to admit it. I went with the rest of the group to Manehattan to track down the Pony of Shadows even though I already knew where he was. But I didn't want to spoil anything quite yet. I heard Rockhoof say "It seems the dark places Starswirl indicated on the map have changed." I said "Well, that's what happens when you're gone for a long time. Things evolve and become modernized." Applejack said "I bet the Pony of Shadows would've loved the Ghastly Caverns before 1,000 years of erosion turned it into the Ghastly Gorge." It's not that great of a place.

Fluttershy said "The "Appeloosian Wastes" sure sounded dark and desolate." Yeah, it sounds like someplace people from the hood would hang out. Rarity said "Who knew they would become such a popular square dancing destination?" I said "Like I said, things change over time." Pinkie said "And I get how this part of Equestria used to be cast in eternal night where the Pony of Shadows could draw power and wreak havoc while ponies were powerless to stop him, but, it's kinda made a comeback." OH, PINKIE! WILL YOU TURN DOWN THE BRIGHTNESS?! YOU ARE LITERALLY GOING TO MAKE US ALL BLIND HERE! "Did I mention it's really bright?" I said "Uh, Pinkie? I thought only Nightmare Moon could cast the sky into eternal night." Pinkie came down and said "No silly. The Pony of Shadows is considered part of the darkness, so that means he controls the moon and stars at night." I guess that's true. We marked the map with a red X since the Pony of Shadows wasn't there. Then, we went back to the castle.

Once we got back to the throne room, Starswirl said "It seems there are fewer dark corners in the realm these days." Well, because the population got a lot bigger and now we have modern cities with skyscrapers and yeah. It was nothing compared to of how it was back then. Rainbow said "Isn't that a good thing?" Yes, it is. Flash Magnus said "True. The Pony of Shadows will have a hard time regaining power. But thanks to Zachary, his power is permanently weakened, so he can't ever get back to full strength. When he rears his head, we'll be ready!" I hope that doesn't include banishment. Fluttershy asked "Isn't there some way to banish him without losing all of you?" Banishment is NOT the answer! Meadowbrook sighed and said "I wish there were. But to save our home, we are willing to leave it." Yeah, that's not happening. Even the Tree agrees with me on that. Suddenly, the doors burst open and came in Twilight. She said "I don't think you'll have to! My spell isn't finished yet, but I think we can send the Pony of Shadows to Limbo without all of you having to go as well!" I rolled my eyes at that. All of them are so narrow minded. Only Starlight understands what I'm talking about.

Twilight put it on the table, but Starswirl rejected it. He said "While I appreciate your enthusiasm, Twilight, this is hardly the time to take risks on half-baked spells." I understand the current situation, but that was uncalled for, Starswirl. I'm sure she put a lot of work into it, and even though I disagree with it, that doesn't give you the right to talk smack about it and throw it away like a worthless piece of garbage. Twilight whimpered in disappointment, but her friends defended her. Applejack said "Begging your pardon, Mr. the Bearded. But Twilight doesn't do anything half-way." That is true. Pinkie said "Especially not magic!" She makes a good point. Rainbow said "Seriously! She got her wings by finishing one of your spells!" Even I remember that. Rarity said "I think you'll find her work is worth reading before you dismiss it out of hoof!" Exactly. You don't throw out someone's hard work just because it doesn't meet up to your "standards." Fluttershy gave a single nod in agreement.

Starswirl looked at them in annoyance and I flew over to look at it. Oh, I have an idea. I said "Starswirl. If we work this around a little bit, I believe this could work. It might not be the best, but I see the potential in it." Starswirl picked up the scroll and said "Hmm. I suppose you're right Zachary." Thanks. Sunburst said "But we still have no idea where to find the villain." That can be fixed real quick. Suddenly my crown glowed and so did my scepter. It blasted it's magic at the Mane Sixes' cutie marks and connected them to it. Then, it brought them over to where the villain was located on the map. After that, my scepter and crown stopped glowing. Spike said "Maybe we should try there." I think so. Applejack said "The Hollow Shades. I think a branch of the Apple family lives there." Don't know why they would be all the way out there. Sunburst said "They'd have to be pretty distant. The Hollow Shades was abandoned eons ago." That doesn't surprise me. It's literally on the outskirts of Equestria.

Rarity said "Hm, that's odd. The only time the map's called all of us to one place was Starlight's village." That is true. But that was 2 seasons ago. Rainbow said with excitement "So it's like a super-villain tracker!" If that's how you want to describe it. "No offense." Starlight just raised an eyebrow and Twilight asked Starswirl "Do you think the map could be trying to tell us where the Pony of Shadows is?" That's exactly what the Tree is doing. Nothing can ever truly defeat the Tree of Harmony's magic. Starswirl thought about it for a second and said "Hmmm. The Tree of Harmony acting to protect the light of the realm. Yes, a good thought, Twilight." Twilight made a face like it was the greatest day of her life or something. Well, to be fair, he didn't trash talk her about something. "I will make my notes on this spell. Ready yourselves for battle." Sure, okay.

Starlight said "Uh, I know I'm not as experienced as all of you, but is banishment really the only option?" No, not really. Even the Tree says it's time for a different approach. "I mean, it's been a long time." Where they came from, it happened in like one second. So that's not really a valid argument. "Maybe the Pony of Shadows is ready to talk?" I wouldn't have said it like that. Starswirl said "I doubt we can save our homeland with a conversation." Starlight said annoyed "But we could try!" However, he refused to listen. Twilight said, defending him "Starlight, I'm sure Starswirl and the others did try." I said "Just because he turned to darkness, doesn't mean he's completely irredeemable. The Tree of Harmony said itself that it's time for something different. Believe me, the Tree of Harmony is never wrong. Just something to consider Starswirl." He said "I appreciate you telling me. But I doubt it will work. Besides, the Pony of Shadows was not interested in reconciliation. Once a villain, always a villain." That's a complete lie and history has proven time and time again that's not true at all.

"Zachary? Twilight? Sunburst? Would you accompany me?" Sure, but only when you're looking. "I wish to refine this spell for our use." Sure, but you don't know what I've put in there. Rockhoof said "Come! We must prepare for the struggle ahead." Indeed so, since you ponies are so narrow minded. Quite challenging for me. I heard Starlight say "I know Starswirl is a great wizard, but this whole plan is wrong." It is. No one is ever past redemption well, except for the devil. He will always be evil and his heart will never change. That is literal fact. Even God said so himself in his Word many times. "The map's only ever sent us to solve friendship problems." You are true in that too. Spike said "Maybe so, but the Pony of Shadows doesn't really seem like the friendship type." If you took the time to listen to what he had to say, then maybe he could be. But with the narrow minds you ponies have, it's hard to do that. But that's part of living in a sinful and fallen world. Whether if it's on Earth or in Equestria.

Starlight said "Honestly? We don't know anything about him." I do. I could tell the whole story. Spike said "Nopony does." That's not quite true. Starlight said "That's not entirely true." I went over to where the rest of the group and Starlight said "You all knew the Pony of Shadows before he became what he is now." Obviously, since Starswirl's journal says so. "You've must have been friends." Of course, it's been really hard on them, even though they didn't seem to show any signs of it. "So what happened?" They'll tell you. Rockhoof said "The tale of our rift is a sad one." There was the Sirens causing havoc. I still want to kick their butt like crazy, but they are no threat anymore. "Stygian was a pony like the rest of us, though more scholar than hero. He recognized our emerging world would need champions to defend it!" Stygian signaled for them to go, and the Pillars did their work. So they actually showed how Starswirl banished the sirens. Flash Magnus said "He may have gathered us together, but he, himself was just an ordinary unicorn who soon grew jealous of our abilities." He had every reason too. No one had ever acknowledged him at all which is sad. So the natural reaction would be for him to grow jealous.

Mistmane said "He stole objects from each of us… artifacts to use in a spell." Yeah, to become just like you guys, not to take all the power for himself. That's just selfish. This is an example of why you don't let pride cloud your judgement, otherwise things like this happen. Meadowbrook said "And we cast him out for it." Shame on you. You didn't even take the time to understand what he was doing. You could have asked him, but instead, you let your pride and selfishness get the better of you and kicked him out. So disgraceful. Somnambula said "We always thought he'd return and seek forgiveness." You were the ones who should have been seeking forgiveness, not him. "But when we saw him again, his heart was bent on revenge." Like I said, he had every reason to, but it's still wrong. "He dashed even my hope of saving him." Gee, I wonder why.

Starlight asked "But why did he steal the artifacts from you?" He did not steal them. Okay, well maybe he did, but he had good intentions. Meadowbrook replied "No doubt it was an enchantment to take our powers for himself." I said coming out of my shadow form "You are wrong! He did not want to take your power, he wanted to be one of you guys. You didn't even bother asking him what he was doing. You could have asked him, but instead, you let your pride and selfishness get the better of you. And then you hope that he would seek forgiveness even though you were the ones who should have been seeking forgiveness. That is completely disgraceful." The room went dead silent for several moments and then Meadowbrook said "We could tell he was trying to steal the artifacts. How would you know something like that?" I said "Did you even bother asking him or did you just base that off what you saw? You know, real friends wouldn't cast another out without listening to what they had to say first. But I can tell you don't even know what true friendship is at all."

"Now if you excuse me, I need to go write a spell to reform the Pony of Shadows." I went back into my shadow form and took off. They all stood in silence. Flash Magnus asked "What was that about?" Applejack replied "He always does that. But I do admit, he raises a lot of good points. However, we can't know for sure. We must continue on." At least Applejack acknowledged the argument I made. I went back to the library and I made sure it looked like nothing happened and I was here the whole time. I heard Starlight open the door and she said "That looks like a lot of work." Not really. They make it a bigger deal than necessary. Starswirl said "It is what must be done and it would be best if we were not disturbed." It's not that critical. Calm down. Starlight just gave an annoyed expression and Twilight said "I'm sorry, Starlight, but we can't stop to talk. The stakes are too high and we have to…" before getting cut off by Starlight, who by the way, wasn't tolerating any bullcrap who said "banish Stygian to Limbo. I get it."

You tell them how you feel, Starlight. However, Sunburst was confused. He asked "Uh, who?" Starswirl replied "Stygian was the name the Pony of Shadows gave up when he turned to darkness." We get that. You were the most prideful and selfish out of all the Pillars, Starswirl. Such a shame. Starlight said "And I'm just trying to figure out why." Starswirl said with irritation "Envy. He wanted more power than he had and that desire led him down a path from which there is no return!" I completely disagree with that statement. Only the fool would say something like that. Starlight countered "I know from experience that's not always true." She's right. History has literally proven that. "When the map called you six to my village, it was for a friendship problem. Are you sure this is different?" No, not at all. Twilight was about to answer, but Starswirl intervened. He said "Stygian wants to destroy all that is good in this world. There's no way to befriend a pony like that!" I could say the same thing.

I said "The only reason why Stygian wants to destroy all that is good is because you and the other Pillars destroyed your friendship with him. You basically treated that friendship like it meant NOTHING to you! He only tried to be a Pillar too, but instead of giving him a chance like proper friends should, you cast him out and expected him to seek forgiveness when you were the ones who betrayed him!" I heard Twilight say "Zach, how could you say something like that to him?" I said "It's the truth, Twilight. Besides, the Tree of Harmony said all of that itself. Also, I can say whatever I want when I want. If you ponies are too stubborn to realize it because of your narrow minds, I don't know why I even bother." I went out the door and slammed it. I heard Starlight say "I guess I'm lucky your idol wasn't around when you decided to be my friend. I might have been banished to limbo too. Also, you should listen to Zachary more. He's the only one who agrees with me, and as his own girlfriend, you continue to ignore him." She headed out the door and slammed it shut too.

After we had everything, we headed to the Tree of Harmony. It looked so beautiful like always. When we were standing in front of it, Somnambula said "I am glad we have the chance to see what has grown from our efforts so long ago." Sure, yeah. You really should have done better. Mistmane said "It seems a shame to harm it." I said "You would be right, but some ponies that I will not name are too selfish and arrogant to realize that." Starswirl said "A necessary sacrifice." Not really, you selfish and arrogant fool. "With the elements' power, we will bind the Pony of Shadows in Limbo." I rolled my eyes at that. It's not going to happen. Believe me, I've seen the episode, so I know what happens. "And thanks to Twilight, we will remain to watch over the realm ourselves." Yeah, sure okay. Whatever. Starswirl fired his magic at the Tree and the elements came down to their respective bearer and it looked nice I guess. Rockhoof asked "Um, how do we use them?" Uh, that's kinda hard to explain.

That's not something you can really explain, it just happens. Rarity replied "Well, you-Oh. I'm not sure." It's okay if you don't. Not really one of those things you could explain, you kinda just need to be there for it to see how it works. "They simply work for us." That's really the best explanation you could give. Starswirl said "The elements are attuned to you. We must use their magic in pairs." Nope, I'm good. My scepter just connects with the element of magic, and uses all of the power from each one. Besides, the element of magic, the scepter is the other main element, and no, that's not a coincidence. However, Rainbow didn't have a problem with that. She said "No problem! We're used to banishing evil before breakfast." Nice one. Applejack said "And it'll be an honor to save Equestria with y'all." After we are done, I expect an apology from everyone for this. The only one I don't really need one from is Starlight since she agrees that banishment is unnecessary.

Starlight said "I really hope Twilight knows what she's doing." None of them do, Starlight. If they did, we wouldn't be having this issue. After we were at the Tree of Harmony, we left for the Hollow Shades. Oof. When we arrived, it looked creepy. It looked like a ghost town. Well, it makes sense since Sunburst said this place was abandoned eons ago. Speaking of him, he said "I don't remember reading anything that said the Hollow Shades was like this." I can imagine how it became like this. Mistmane said as we were walking "The Pony of Shadows must have twisted it to his purposes." Obviously, since nobody lives here. It means he can do whatever he wishes here. When we make a circle around some thing, Starswirl said "Prepare yourselves. He is here. Stygian! Show yourself and face us!" Obviously, the Pony of Shadows heard that and began his evil laughter. He made the ground crack and the floor gave out underneath them. However, I went into my shadow form so I couldn't fall.

But I couldn't say the same for the rest of them. I'm surprised no one got hurt, but I'm grateful that they didn't get hurt. Sunburst said "I definitely would have remembered reading about this." You wouldn't have. The Pillars and the Pony of Shadows have been gone too long for anyone to put this down in recorded history. Of course, the Pony of Shadows started his evil laughter again and I growled in annoyance. Starswirl put up a shield so we couldn't be attacked, and I put in reinforcements so the Pony of Shadows simply can't just shatter it with ease. He said "Welcome to the Well of Shade!" That's an odd name. "When you turned your backs on me, I discovered this place." That doesn't surprise me. "The darkness spoke to me of a power beyond any I could imagine and I listened." I understand how your friends betrayed you, but turning to the darkness and wanting revenge is NOT the answer. "The shadow and I became one." That doesn't usually result very well when you do that.

"Soon all of the realm will be the same. Then all ponies will feel the despair I did when YOU CAST ME OUT!" That's still not a good idea. Starswirl said "We did what we had to do. You tried to steal our powers for yourself." No, you liar. It was you who was the selfish one. You let your pride and arrogance cloud your judgement and get the better of you. The Pony of Shadows disagreed with Starswirl. He said "NO! It was YOU who were selfish! And now YOU WILL PAY!" He blasted his magic at the shield, but had no effect. He did it again, and still nothing happened. He said "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" I smirked and said "I put reinforcements in this shield so you wouldn't easily break it. Pretty smart if you ask me." He growled and said "YOU WILL PAY FOR THAT!" I said "Not if I get to it first." I teleported out and blasted my magic at him. He, of course tried fighting back, but it was no use. The scepter kept overpowering him and weakening him. I heard Starlight say "Are you still sure this isn't a friendship problem?" It is, and don't deny it Twilight.

Twilight had a worried look on her face and Starswirl said "Ready? Open the portal… NOW!" Everypony else activated their magic and opened the portal to Limbo. Oh no, you're not! He got pushed back, but he still remained. He said "NO! You will NOT TRAP ME AGAIN!" I'm trying to stop this and if my element shuts down, the rest of them don't work. Starswirl said in a last ditch attempt "Twilight! Push him in!" No, don't do that to me, Starswirl. Twilight powered up her element, but then Stygian actually poked his head out. This caught Twilight's attention and she stopped. Maybe, my title will still be saved! She said "There's a pony in there." I flew right in and Twilight followed me in. She put on a light with her horn and she saw Stygian standing there. He really didn't deserve this. If his so-called friends had listened to him, none of this would have happened. It tears me apart on the inside. It's so sad to watch.

I heard Twilight say "Are you… Stygian?" Of course he is. Who else would it be? He said "I was, once. Until my friends betrayed me." I told you that his friends cast him out for no reason without giving him a chance to explain. Twilight said "But Starswirl says you betrayed them. You wanted their magic." I said "Did you honestly believe that lie, Twilight? Starswirl and the others never gave him a chance to explain what he was doing." Stygian said "He's absolutely right! I wanted their respect. I brought them together. I planned strategy and I read all I could about the beasts we faced. But I didn't have magic or strength. So nopony ever noticed me." That's the reason why he got jealous. "I went to Ponehenge to make my own copies of the artifacts. With them, I thought I could be a Pillar too! And stand by their side in battle. I never wanted to steal their power." Yeah, you hear that Starswirl? He never wanted to take all of your power, he only wanted to be a hero. Such a disgrace. Screw you and the rest of the Pillars.

"But instead of sharing and letting me help, my friends threw me out. So I became stronger than any of them! The darkness welcomed me when no pony would." Yes, that might sound convincing, but the darkness will always betray you in the end. That's why Satan is called the Father of Lies because no matter what he tells you, they are empty words and means nothing to him. He has never cared about you, and will never care about you. That's why at the end of time, God will throw him into the Lake of Fire along with the rest of his demons and followers. It's sad, but it's the truth. It literally says it in Revelation. "I will do what I must to protect it!" That's the darkness doing that. Twilight said "This is all a misunderstanding! If the Pillars knew how you felt, I'm sure they wouldn't have turned their backs on you. The shadow isn't who you really are. Let me help you be Stygian again." Now you finally realize what I've been saying. It took you like several days to figure that out.

Stygian said "Even if my friends did still care, what makes you think you have the power to help me?" That's what the darkness wants you to think. It wants you to think that no one cares about you and that you mean nothing to them. But you need to listen to the voice of truth who tells you that you are loved and valued for by someone out there. You were created for a purpose and not some science experiment gone wrong. Starlight said "Because it's what she does." That's true. Twilight's role as a princess is to make everyone feel like they belong. I wish I could do that, but that's not my territory. It's only to defend Equestria. However, I am willing to give those who have been misunderstood a chance before I attack. "I wasn't so different from you and Twilight helped me change." You see? No one is ever past redemption. Except for Satan himself. He could never be redeemed, and never will. God knows what's in his heart and he will never forgive him. It's literal truth from his Word itself if you don't believe me. Atheists, calm down. It's necessary for the story.

"If there's one pony in Equestria that can save a friendship, it's her." She's called the Princess of Friendship for a reason. Stygian said "I-I want to believe you. But the darkness will not be stopped!" I disagree. The light will always terrify the dark and will always defeat it. It pushed us back and Twilight grabbed him with her magic. I followed out and so did Starlight. She was struggling though. She said "Fight the darkness, Stygian! You don't need it anymore! Revenge isn't what you want, friendship is!" That's very much true. Friendship is the answer, not revenge and it will always be that way. She was pulling him out, but the shadow refused to let go of him. I don't think so. Starlight called out Twilight's name and used her magic. They were still struggling. Time to add reinforcements. I fired my scepter at both of his hooves and even had my crown and wing magic chip in. It was slowly working, but it needed all of the elements to get him out.

Twilight said "The shadow won't let go of him. He wants to stop, but he can't do it alone." No one can. Also, a little help would be appreciated. Thankfully, Starswirl chimed in and said "Then we must help him!" There you go. The rest of the elements chipped in and we used all of our strength to pull him out. Once all the elements were activated, the scepter had a lot more ease and yanked him out quickly and blasted the Pony of Shadows into Limbo with Stygian freed. It caused a major rainbow explosion and caused a bigger crater in the area we were in. We went back up and landed on the nearby ground. Man, did that feel good. But there is still one more thing that needs to happen. Rainbow said "YEAH! It felt so good to do that again!" It sure did. Pinkie said "Friendship power rush! WOO!" Ouch, that looked like it hurt. Rarity said "The elements! They didn't disappear." Of course they didn't. You finally fixed the issue.

Fluttershy said "Maybe because we used them for healing magic instead of banishing?" I said "You would be correct. The Tree said that it had enough of the banishments and decided it was time to mend broken friendships. It was tired of cutting parts away. Since you freed Stygian from the darkness, the elements remain and I still have my title. So it's a win-win." Applejack said "Look!" We looked over and saw Starswirl pull out Stygian. Good man, Starswirl. He said "Long ago you needed our help, Stygian, but instead of listening, we turned our backs on you. Pride clouded my judgement. I owe you an apology." He's not the only one that you need to apologize. "Thank you for helping us see the errors of our ways, Twilight. It seems I never accounted for the magic of friendship." You finally admit that you were wrong and that you needed to listen instead of turn away. Twilight said "Thank you, Swirlstar." Eh? That's not his name, Twilight. You had that backwards. "Starswirl!" There you go. The scepter and my crown glowed again and connected it's magic to the glowing cutie marks and marked it as complete.

Rainbow asked me "Why does your scepter always do that? It's starting to get kinda annoying." I said annoyed "Well, I'm sorry. I can't help that. It's not my fault that the scepter has a mind of it's own." Rainbow rolled her eyes and I turned back to Starswirl. Starlight said to him "AHEM! So apparently a conversation can save Equestria?" Yes it can. The problem can be the solution sometimes. Starswirl chuckled a bit and said "Something tells me I will be making a lot of apologies today." I turned to leave, but Starswirl said "Wait! I owe you an apology, Zachary. I should have listened to you from the start. I didn't think you would have such knowledge, but I guess life throws unexpected things at us. I never should have disregarded you. I owe you my deepest apologies." I said "It's okay, Starswirl. No one is perfect, so I guess it makes sense." Twilight said "I think we all owe you an apology. You knew from the start that Stygian wasn't beyond redemption but nopony listened to you. Instead, we let this get in the way and I'm sorry." After she said that, everypony gave apologies.

It put a smile on my face. After all of that happened, we went back to Canterlot so Starswirl could see Celestia and Luna again. He said "I simply cannot believe how tall you've gotten!" That's odd, but okay. How short were they back then? Celestia said "Well, it has been over a thousand years." I said "10,000." Twilight giggled at that, while Celestia rolled her eyes at that. Sure, go on ahead. I'm used to it at this point. "Will you stay here and teach magic once again?" I doubt that will happen. "My sister and I have such fond memories of your lessons." That's wonderful. Not really. I don't care. Luna said "As long as you don't ask for those essays we owed you before you disappeared." I doubt he'll do that. Starswirl chuckled and said "I am not certain Canterlot is where I belong." Where do you belong then? "The realm has grown and I believe I'll have a look around before I settle in any one place." That makes sense. A lot has changed over the last 10,000 years. Meadowbrook said "And I long to see what has become of my home." Uh, last time I was there, it didn't look that great.

Mistmane said "I believe we all do." I can't agree more. Celestia said "Then I hope you will return to Canterlot on occasion and share the wisdom of your great experience with the next generation of ponies." The mistake you made doesn't really count. Starswirl said "We would be honored, but if it is wisdom you seek, look no further to your own pupil. She showed me that the power of friendship is a magical force indeed. Also, I can't forget about Zachary. He saw right through the Pony of Shadows and knew he could be redeemed. And that in turning away from others, you hurt yourself as well." Twilight was crying happily and I just wrapped my wing around her as I smiled as well. They all went for a hug though and I heard Twilight say to Starlight "It's funny. I thought meeting my idol would give me all the answers I ever wanted. But instead, I forgot what I already knew. Good thing I had a student of my own and boyfriend to remind me." She wrapped both me and Starlight in a hug and I just smiled as I had another friendship restored.

After that whole reunion thing, I returned back to the castle. I went outside on the balcony to feel the wind as the sun went down. Man, did it feel good. After I went out there, I went to bed. After what felt like forever, I heard a voice that said "Zach? Are you still awake?" I knew that voice from a mile away. Something's bothering her. I asked, tired "Twilight… What are you doing up?" Twilight replied "Oh, good you are awake, listen can I um.." What? I said even more tiredly, "You need to speak up, Twilight." She asked me "C-can I come in?" I said "Yes, you can." I patted the bed to let her know that she is welcome. She walked over and immediately began hugging my side. Dang, what happened? I asked her "What's wrong, Twilight?" Twilight replied "Nothing is wrong. I just want to talk." That's a big fat lie. I said "Twilight. Nopony hugs me to death just to talk. You can't fool me so easily." Twilight said "Nothing is wrong, Zach." I'm refusing to believe that lie. I took a closer look at her and saw tears falling from her face.

I said "Twilight, have you been crying?" I knew she was, but I wanted to ask her anyways if she would tell the truth. She said "N-no. It's just really bright outside." Yeah. As if I'm going to believe that. I'm not that dumb. I wasn't born yesterday. "Yeah, that's it. It's super bright outside." I sighed and said "Twilight, first of all, it's night time. Second of all, the moon is high up in the sky, so it's not even peeking through the window. So how about you just pony up and confess the truth?" Twilight sighed and said "F-fine. Something is bothering me…" I said "May I ask what it is?" Twilight said "I-it's nothing really that important." I said "Really? Back to lying?" Twilight said "Why do you always have to be so smart?" I said "I don't know. It's really just common sense. Twilight, just tell me what's wrong." Twilight said "A-alright." She fidgeted around a little bit and I was starting to grow annoyed. I said "Any day now."

Twilight said "Fine. I-I" She then buried her head in my chest and kept on crying. I looked over and saw her shaking in fear. Oh dear. How bad was this? I said "Twilight? What happened?" She said crying "I-I'm sorry for not listening to you. I wanted to b-believe you, but I didn't w-want to look bad." Oh, now I know what this is about. I said "Twilight. I have already forgiven you. There's no need to continue dwelling on that." Twilight said "I-I know. But I feel guilty not believing you." I said "Twilight. Don't feel guilty. I understand that you wouldn't believe me. You just didn't know. But don't always be so easy to believe everything you hear. Because not everything ponies say are truth." Twilight said "Zach? C-Can I ask something?" I said "Yes, you can. What is it?" Twilight said "A-am I-I a bad girlfriend?" What? Okay, I have never ever thought that.

I said "Twilight. You are not a bad girlfriend. You are a great one. You always have and always will be, Why would you think that?" Twilight said "B-because when Starlight left the library a couple of days ago, she said I was a bad girlfriend." What? No, she didn't. I said "Twilight. Starlight was just upset and she wasn't saying that you were a bad girlfriend. She was just saying that you needed to listen to me more. She never said that you were a bad girlfriend. I could never say something like that. I can't find a single reason at all. And that's a good thing because you are the most beautiful mare I've ever seen. Yes, I know that's corny, but I don't care. Anyway, point is that you are a pony that makes mistakes just like anyone else. I don't expect you to be perfect and I don't expect you to believe me all the time. You are the perfect girlfriend." Twilight hugged me even more and said "Thank you. I just couldn't bear the thought of not believing you." I said "Hey, don't sweat it. It's all good." Twilight asked "Can I sleep with you for the night?" I said "Eh, sure why not?"

Twilight smiled and got up closer to me so she could sleep next to me. She then looked at me and kissed me. Of course she would do that. I returned it of course, because I can. I don't give a heck if you don't like it. I feel happy when she does that, and I will continue doing it. After probably a good few minutes, she finally fell asleep and I did as well. It's been a long day. One thing I can say is I could never say Twilight was a bad girlfriend.

AN: Finally finished with Season 7! It was quite interesting writing this season and I will continue to write until the end of the series. I'm not sure if I will do anything about Forgotten Friendship, Spring Breakdown, or Rainbow Roadtrip. I'll think about it. If you see it in the list of chapters, that means I'll do it. However, I will do the movie. That's just too good to past up. It was really good and that will be the next thing to cover. I will make it a two parter since it will be easier. The spilt, I'm not sure, but I'll figure it out. Also, I was able to get this in because of not having a lot of schoolwork, but I promise that the workload will get heavier as time goes on. Hope you enjoyed these two chapters.

Next Chapter: The first ever Friendship Festival! Twilight decides to have a friendship festival in Canterlot so she could better spread friendship across Equestria. However, a unicorn named Tempest Shadow comes to ruin the party and throws balls that cast Celestia, Luna, and Cadence to stone. Twilight and her friends are able to flee from Canterlot, but need to find help. Will they be able to find any, or are the outside species too stubborn to care?

Until then, my fellow readers