The Legend of the Shadow Knights

Historical Basis

There is scant evidence. There was a historical elite group of knights who served as personal security for the King of the Therialians, formed after the assassination of a previous King. Both the eras of Prehistory and the Time of Upheaval had bandits as well as political riots of all types. An attack of the King would be an occupational hazard at these times. It is unlikely however that a young King would choose to hunt during these dangerous times.
In the most common version of the story, no one is named, and the time period is unclear. Evidence exists that female knights have been involved in the King's Guard for generations. The mixed nature of the guards or knights suggests that the legend has lost the specific nature of the hero in the tale.

Spread

It has developed into a fairy tale that parents tell their children at bedtime, and sometimes to engender fear - ghost stories.

Variations & Mutation

Each Therialian noble family has their own version of the story. Some darker than others. It has been used as propaganda in wars and politics for hundreds of years.
Each family tends to adapt it to the needs of their children, exaggerating some parts and editing the more violent elements out completely. Some have a female knight as it isn't completely unthinkable that it was a female. Some have a team of knights rising from the grave to serve their king.
Some have used the tale as a warning for their children to stay inside at night, and be good.

Go to bed, or a Shadow Knight will get you! They punish naughty children.

Cultural Reception

The legend has a familiar ring to it, in every version. It is definitely part of the folklore of the Therialian people, and a treasured part of their culture.

In Literature

The legend of the shadow knights was collected as part of the folklore last century, and is found in physical and electronic book forms. One edition is highly ornate and colourfully illustrated.

In Art

There is an ancient tapestry telling the story, but the experts agree that the story was already exaggerated.

Date of First Recording

3030 is the first mention in written history, although experts believe it was already well known throughout the planet.

Date of Setting

Prehistory

Telling / Prose

Shadow Knights

Related Species

• Therialians