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// War of Shadows - Chapter 134 
// Story: Diary of the Night 
// by CalebH 
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The final preparations for Princess Cadenza’s wedding are all but finished. In truth the decision to be absent to her wedding is made easier by the host of guests. To pretend I don’t envy Celestia’s place at the head of every crowd would be an empty and useless sentiment, but as I watch with a calmer heart I know I do not have her poise when she is at the center of attention, even proceeding another pony’s wedding.

I hope that my attendance at the reception will be sufficient. Princess Cadenza and Captain Armor are among the few I would count as peers. Celestia’s shadow has grown no less expansive and although our dealings have not been among the most amiable I do appreciate the company.

The idea of marriage has changed nearly as much as its execution. Captain Armor has some prestige and wealth but nothing equaling the dowry of a princess. There is no money to be exchanged, no houses to be joined, and no power to be consolidated. Marriage for love was once considered an oddity or a blessing of fate for second sons and lower houses, now marriage for any other reason is considered blasphemy.
-L