//------------------------------//
// Epilogue 
// Story: Entombed by Vanity: A Tale of Vampirism in Equestria 
// by Robotlegs 
//------------------------------//

Several months had past after that fateful night in the EverFree Forest. Rarity threw herself into her craft with vigor and zest. Her energy levels almost matched those of Pinkie Pie. Her friends and the townsponies recognized Rarity’s new joy de vivre. She spent more time with Sweetie Belle. And remarkably, Opal returned, much to Rarity’s happiness. With passing time, she learned that she was able to face any challenges, come what may. She no longer fretted over the things she had no control over, but practiced gratitude daily.

Princess Luna knew that she made the right decision that fateful day. With time, she was able to find the happiness and laughter she once knew. In remembrance of him, Princess Luna planted the violets in the royal garden. She named the flowers Dacrioema, as they originated from the mingling of royal blood and tears. Princess Luna lovingly tended to them, knowing that is what Prince Nocturnus would have wanted. She kept diligent to her royal duties, and was able to spent more time with her Ponyville friends. However, some days she found her thoughts drifted to Prince Nocturnus. Princess Luna would wistfully reminisce about the times she spent with him before his fall into darkness. On some nights she would dream of him. It was the only time she could hold him. But the morning after brought deep melancholy. Sometimes she wished she could remain asleep forever. Strangely, she found a joyful sorrow in remembering him. Her spirits would lift, but she was still beside herself that she fatally struck her one-time love.

The need of her subjects before her own—such is the life of a princess.