//------------------------------// // War of Shadows - Chapter 116 // Story: Diary of the Night // by CalebH //------------------------------// “Why armies?” It is a simple question. In terms of power it would take thousands attacking as one to bring me harm and even then I would endure. For a time I stood alone to defend Equestria. I risked myself before all others but I am only one. One may be distracted, one may be tricked where many would not be. A small raiding party fell before me while a city burned behind me. One stood in defense where I was not able. Aegis stood as a wall between my ponies and those who would bring them harm. He was the first knight. I offered him a boon, anything he wished. A unicorn mare, a daughter of a noble family was his only desire. An earth pony commoner like him was not permitted to court her and he longed only for that chance. To simply dissolve the tradition that kept them apart was my first attempt. The nobles refused. The debate escalated until I threatened to dissolve the houses as a whole. When Celestia openly sided with the nobles I knew I was outmatched. And so if the pompous arrogance of the nobles could not be tamed I made Aegis a noble. Landless and without wealth or influence , he was a noble in name only but to those so concerned with appearances a name was enough. -L