The Light runs in front of me, sword raised, yelling at the Shadow. They swing their holy blade, which is blocked by purple and black lightning. They keep up their attempts at landing a hit, distracting the Shadow while I charge up my own spell. The Shadow is about to collapse from the Light's onslaught, when my Thoron spell rips through their chest like a golden spear, and they dissipate into purple smoke. The Light turns to me as the Shadow rears themselves up and shoots one last orb at them. Without thinking of the possible consequences, I push the Light to the side, allowing the dark magic to hit me instead.

Blank.

I see the Light running towards me. I can't hear their words. The Shadow is gone. Everything's a blur. Everything aches.

Blank.

The sound of flesh and bone being pierced fills my ears, along with a choked grunt of pain. I try so discern the Light's face, but all I see is two sapphire-blue orbs, filled with sorrow and anguish.

Before those familiar hues disappear, and the Light collapses.

...What happened?

Why do I feel so...elated, as if...a burden had just been lifted...from my shoulders...?

Who is...laughing...? Me...?

...Why is...everything...going dark... a n d . . . . . . ?