Stream of Silver, Heart of Gold

Chapters

Chapter One: Hugs vs frozen tears
Chapter Two: Death by vita-min-itus
Chapter Three: Migraine induced questions.
Chapter Four: Pukwudgies, Timberwolves, and Cockatrice’s oh my! Part 1
Chapter Six: Counseling intervention due to snow
Chapter Seven: A True Heart’s Warming celebration
Chapter Seven and a Half: A true Heart’s Warming celebration x1.5
Chapter Eight: Dancing From The Heart
Epilogue/The Adventure Continues
Chapter Five: Pukwudgies, Timberwolves, and Cockatrice’s oh my! Part 2

Chapter One: Hugs vs frozen tears

When the words within a book started to blur together, that’s when Gallus knew it was time to take a break. Standing up and stretching, the gryphon walked around the school library to try and un-jumble all the information. Thankfully, most of his friends were either at home or exploring Ponyville over the long weekend. Studious or not, Gallus didn’t want to don the mantle of ‘egghead’ in the slightest. Even though his friends probably knew, the gryphon had SOME sense of pride.
How much or how little varied day to day.

Looking around, Gallus made sure nobody was in the aisle before pulling out a rather large book and setting it down. Breezing through the pages, he focused on the single page that had caused no end of aggravating thoughts and feelings.
‘A simple explanation of family structure; see figures one to three for ponies, gryphons, and dragons respectively.’
The charts were almost identical with a few small changes here and there. He had stared at this page many times before. It probably wasn’t healthy, but…

Gallus swallowed the lump in his throat as his eyes rested on a few designations.
‘Mother.
Father.
Sister.
Brother.
Relations; Special somepony/somegriff/somedragon
Husband. Wife.’

He knew what all those were, obviously. The more distant ones had taken a good few hours to clarify. Cousins and relations were weird. One removed, twice removed, and so on. But these simple terms always caused that stupid tightening in his chest. He understood intellectually what they meant. He just had no idea what it meant to have any of those, nor did he think he ever would.

Gallus took another look over the page and then closed it, not putting the volume back just yet. His friends were his family, that much he had figured out. A weird, crazy, whacky family. But it worked and was pretty awesome.
They had saved Equestria after all; he wouldn’t trade them for the world.

He sighed, still sitting down and staring at the book; ‘Familial and Interpersonal Relationships, Varies Species Edition Volume One.’

Even with his new family, he didn’t know, and couldn’t know what it was like to have those other relationships. Gallus wasn’t as smart as Ocellus or any other super-student, but he was smart enough to have that knowledge hurt.
Gryphons didn’t even do the whole ‘dating thing,’ so Gallus had no idea how that even worked. Maybe after everygriff stopped being such jerks in Griffinstone and such that’d happen, but who knew. The most romantic thing Gallus had ever seen was onegriff paying for another’s meal, and it wouldn’t have surprised him if that was for a bet. If it could be bottled and sold, ponies had enough hearts-and-hooves-day emotions for everywhere on the continent, and it was certainly needed.

Gallus grumbled, wings slightly slumped to match his ears. It was certainly a catch-twenty-two. He didn’t dare talk as openly about this stuff with his friends, mainly because he didn’t want pity from them or any of the teachers.
That was the root of it, why his friends meant so much to him. They were his friends and actually cared before they learned about his home life, or lack thereof. Now? How could he tell what was a gesture of pity and what was genuine unless he just didn’t bring it up? Gryphons didn’t show weakness, otherwise they’d be taken advantage of. That thought had been engrained into Gallus for his whole life. And now, to try and break that…

The issue had been eating away at the gryphon for some time, starting a bit after they had saved Equestria all those many months ago. A year? Something like that. But in recent months his friends had certainly noticed, but what could he say?

It certainly didn’t help that opening up to them that first Hearth’s Warming had unlocked the floodgates to emotions he thought long since frozen. The second had been bearable; saying goodbyes and staying at the school during the break. In reality it had been nice, a few random dinner meetings and hanging out with other ponies who had their families locally.
It still hurt though.

Not having a home or family made him a bit more mature than some of the other students in many ways, maybe even a teacher or two. Fending for himself, learning to go to bed hungry, just staying alive.
But Gallus grudgingly knew that meant nothing when he was more immature than all of them in matters of family. Or any caring relationship for that matter. Smolder didn’t count; dragons seemed like jerks even from a gryphon perspective.
Except for her, she was ok.

Gallus took out another book and placed it on top of the first volume; last thing he wanted was someone, teacher or otherwise, to put two and two together. Even so, he still stared numbly at the book pile.

Ocellus and Sandbar had been going on dates; what couples did apparently, while the rest of them had been amused bystanders. It was rather adorable, he had to admit. But even their relationship was totally alien to him. Everyone else, even Smolder, seemed to understand it.

But the only gryphon in the group was a bit befuddled. Logically he got it, but as for how it felt? Those ‘warm and fuzzy’ things? How to even go on a date? How it felt to care about someone? Not a clue. The next thought caused him to grumble slightly. …ok maybe a bit of a clue.

Silverstream had been acting different this past month or so. Still herself; Annoying at times, talkative, curious, bubbly, happy, and basically a diet Pinkie Pie. She had started sitting next to him in almost every class and activity, and she seemed to lose some of the over-the-top excitement when she did so at times. But not in a bad way, almost like she knew he could only handle a certain amount of it. It only made Gallus more unsure of himself when being with her made him genuinely happy. It was kind of happy that he hadn’t felt before, and only increased when he spotted her smiling at him every now and again.

Gallus fiddled with the books near his claws and shook his head. He wasn’t an idiot; he knew logically she was interested in him on some level. Was it his past? Curiosity? Being more than a friend? Possibly? Maybe? This was where his mind short circuited. She was of a royal family, and he was, quite literally, a homeless, family-less gryphon. A gryphon who had barely figured out how to be a good friend, let alone anything else. It certainly made things more difficult seeing the looks his friends gave him at times. They knew what she was up to, and found it rather amusing, or cute.

Gallus would agree with them, if he could even figure out what to do. Unlike other things he had dealt with, it wasn’t like he could ignore the issue. When she was around he just felt happier, her own bubbly nature easily dragging his mind away from the depressing thoughts always lurking at the corner. He felt at ease around the bouncy hippogriff; as though just being him was a good thing. That feeling alone was something new to him. The fact she tried to always be positive, that never ending curiosity, Gallus could at least admit to himself that really liked that about her. The consideration she showed for all her friends, for him; even thinking about it brought the hint of a smile to his beak.

He sighed, hanging his head slightly. He certainly wasn’t against the idea of maybe being more than a friend; he just had no idea how to do it.
Or what it felt like.
Or what was proper.
Or how he could royally mess up and lose a friend.
Or…any number of other things. It was enough to give him an instant headache.

As he continued to ponder, an idea hit him. A stupid, sappy, cutesy idea. It’d at least show that he was interested. As cheesy as it was, it gave him more peace than any other thought had in the past. Of course, he first had to find-

Gallus blinked, seeing a pair of pink-tufted forelimbs at the edge of his vision. Well, first problem solved.
Silversteam instantly perked up at seeing Gallus, flying on over as she was prone to do instead of walking…for whatever reason. It was still pretty amusing.

“Hey! Gallus! Whatcha up to? We don’t have a test for a while!” She chirped softly, sitting in front of him and craning her neck to see the title of the book at his feet.
“Huh. You want to learn how to write romance novels?” A soft gasp left her beak.
“I never kneeeeeeeew-”
“W-wha?! No!” Gallus quickly removed the how-to book and shoved it back, shaking his head.
“I was randomly pulling out books. That was just one of them.” He explained, not able to meet the ecstatic hippogriff’s gaze.
‘Oh I’m never going to live that down.’ He sighed.

“I was just browsing random books. I mean why not? Not like we have a ton in Griffinstone. I think last I saw we had onegriff trying to start a library or something.” Gallus explained, finally looking back and seeing Silverstream’s gaze focused directly on the book now visible. Her expression was almost that of confusion, and then understanding.

Gallus grit his beak and took the volume in his claws, placing it back carefully lest Twilight have a bent-page induced rage.

“Just, nothing.” He whispered, shaking his head.

“I’m sorry Gallus, I-”

“I don’t want creatures to be sorry for me!” The gryphon hissed, the lump in his throat rising again. Turning to see Silverstream’s wide eyes, his wings and ears flattened. “Sorry Silver. You didn’t deserve that.” He muttered, shaking his head. “Can-look, outside the library where we won’t get yelled at?” Gallus finally suggested, starting to walk to the main door. He half expected her to not follow, but apparently she was right on his tail. Once in a side hall, Silver plopped onto her haunches and looked at the frustrated gryphon.

“I don’t want everyone’s pity,” he finally sighed, not able to look at the hippogriff. “My friends. The teachers. After last Hearth’s Warming, that’s the one thing I don’t want.”

“Well that’s silly!” Was the surprised reply, causing Gallus to stare at the now beaming Hippogriff.

“W-wha?”

“Well, it’s natural to feel sorry or bad for someone you care about! If you treat them different over something they couldn’t control, that’s a bigger problem, but we all care about you! So of course we feel sad for you. Doesn’t mean we should treat you different! That’d be really mean actually.” Silverstream mused, now hovering once again with a thoughtful claw on her beak.

“Like, how not-friend-like would that be? You tell us something that is totally not your fault in any way, and we treat you differently just because we feel sorry for you because of that thing? That’s like, the opposite of what friends should do! Of course we feel bad for you, but that doesn’t mean we’ll treat you different!”

Gallus could only stare, Silverstream having vocalized the exact counter argument to the problem that had been plaguing him the past months.

“…I…totally still have stuff to learn about friendship, huh?” Gallus finally asked, shaking his head. “Well, that is what I was worried about, mostly."

“Mostly?”

Gallus rubbed his temples with a set of claws, wishing for a brief moment he could be a laid-back as Sandbar or as eloquent as Ocellus.

“I…look. So, ok, friends shouldn’t treat friends differently based on pity, right? What about, um, more than friends or something?” He managed to spit out, wincing at how broken his words were.

To his surprise, Silverstream’s eyes widened as she sat back down, her expression almost hurt.
“Is that why you think I’ve-why I-” Gallus’ own heart squeezed itself in pain as a few tears welled up in Silverstream’s eyes.

“Silver, I don’t know, ok!” He finally whispered, not able to look at her. “I’m not stupid, I know you’ve been being closer to me on purpose. And that’s made me really happy. Like, happier than I’ve ever been. And that’s new and something I like. But I can’t help but wonder about it all.”

Both to Gallus’ relief and horror, he felt a few burning tears at the edge of him eyes. When you lived on your own, sometimes you cry until there’s nothing left. At least, that’s what he had thought. Instead of not having anything left, Gallus felt as though the tears from all those years had frozen, and only now were being thawed.
Mostly by a certain pink Hippogriff.

“It’s n-not fair to you either. To assume you’re acting one way just because I’m scared. Scared of you pitying me. Scared because I barely know how to be a friend, let alone how to be anything more than that, if that’s what you are wanting.”

The root of it all. Gallus thought as he looked to the floor.

He really should have expected it, but having two warm arms wrap around his torso made Gallus stiffen up. Hugs were as rare as smiles in Griffinstone, and outside his friends, Gallus could count the gestures on one of his clawed hands, maybe two.

Pulling away briefly, Silverstream caught his gaze and smiled, her eyes still damp but not with sadness.
“Gallus, you featherhead, I’ve been wanting to be close because I like you for you. You include your past and everything. I’d be doing the same thing if you were a gryphon prince. As for not knowing what to do, just be you. I’d certainly like to be more than a friend, but only if you do too.”

The lump in Gallus’ throat was burning, turning any words to ash. As the burning rose to his eyes, the gryphon could only choke out a sentence or two. Time for the sappy but very appropriate idea.

“S-silver, remember when I said in the crazy fear cave, ’hug time later?’ I think it’s later.”

The hippogriff gladly obliged, wrapping the gryphon up in another hug. To her instant enjoyment, he actually returned the gesture.

Gallus knew it’d be a cruel trick of fate to have the rest of his friends watching from around the corner, but at that moment he didn’t care. Tears rolled down the distraught gryphon’s cheeks as Silverstream let him rest against her neck. He didn’t want to cry; but when Silverstream gently rested her head against his-
It thawed what must have been a gallon of frozen tears, iced over from years of no affection.

I guess this is what it’s like to be hugged by someone who actually cares about you. Parents. Siblings. Special somegriff… The thought flitted through Gallus’ mind on a whim. Having Silverstream close enough to feel her heart beat in her chest gave Gallus a comfort and warmth that no number of blankets could have replicated. He didn’t miss the happy shiver that ran through Silverstream either; something that just caused him to smile ever so slightly.

It must have only been a minute or two, but after what felt like ten times longer, Gallus wiped his eyes and pulled back to look at Silverstream.
“I-erm, thanks Silver.” He mumbled, blue feathered cheeks shining violet.

To both his surprise and amusement, her own pink cheeks were only pinker.

“A-anytime. And when did I become Silver?” Her head tilted in curiosity, promptly Gallus to draw a blank.

“Uh, haven’t I called you that before?”

“Eh. Once or twice. I like it though.”

Letting out a sigh of relief, Gallus ran a set of claws through his ruffled headfeathers.

“Um, I’m glad. Kinda just fit.”

The smile on Silverstream’s face kept getting wider- at least that was a good sign. Also smiling back to the hippogriff, Gallus took a deep breath before finally speaking.
“So, um, Silverstream, I’d really like to be more than a friend too, even if I have no idea how to do that, or go from here, or anything.” He managed to stammer out.

“WE’LLFIGUREITOUTBUTYAAAAAY!”

Even though it hurt his ears, hearing Silverstream answer at the top of her lungs as she zipped into the air brought a smile to Gallus’ face. He couldn’t help but chuckle as she flew down and landed in front of him. Was she crying again?

“Are you ok Silverstream?” He asked cautiously, relief flooding his frame as she hiccupped and nodded.

“J-just happy. Never had a special somegriff before.” She replied with a sniff.

That caused an eyebrow raise from the skeptical gryphon.
“What? Really? I’m…rather surprised actually. You’re so happy and bubbly, I can’t see why not.”

That comment apparently earned him bonus points, because Silverstream gave him another hug- this one of the usual bone-crushing intensity.
“That’s so sweeeeeeeet.”

“Silver. Breathing.” Gallus gasped, still smiling as she bounced in place happily.

“I can’t wait to tell everyone! I wonder what they’ll think? Or- Umm.” She looked over to him expectantly, ears flattening slightly.
“I can tell our friends, right?” She asked, tone a bit more subdued.

Gallus sighed, already imagining the endless jokes and looks that were bound to come his way.
But, if these moments were any indication, it’d be worth it.
“Yeah, of course. Just, maybe not announcing it from the rooftops?” He said, scuffing the floor with a set of claws.
“I do like you Silverstream. I’m just not used to all this. Like hugs in front of everybody and stuff.”

It pained Gallus to see Silverstream’s wings droop ever so slightly at his words.
“Like, at all?”

Gallus shook his head, scooting a bit closer to her.
“I never said that. Just not a ton. Maybe small stuff in front of others at first? I’m still getting used to everything, let alone in front of everyone. If that makes sense.”

Silverstream perked right up, nodding with a wide grin.
“That makes sense! Maybe we can go to Sugar Cube corner? That’s what Sandbar and Ocellus did for their first date.”

Gallus mulled over the hippogriff’s words, finally nodding.
“Eh, why not. Sounds good to me.”

Just before they excited the hallway, Gallus put a set of claws on Silverstream’s shoulder in pause.
“Hey, Silverstream? Thanks.” He said softly, making sure to look into her calming eyes as he did so. She just smiled, nodding with her usual wide grin, eyes slightly damp.

“And also, just because I don’t want to hug or other stuff in front of others doesn’t mean I don’t like it.”
Just after speaking, Gallus pulled her into a genuine and tight hug. The instant comfort and warmth that spread through his frame as she hugged him back was enough to almost cause him to tear up again.
“Because I really, really do.”

Author's Note

Feedback is always appreciated. This is going to be a series of very fluffy and feelings-laden one-shots with Gallus and Silverstream (following a general plot.) Within the story, it'll indicate how Gallus' past is an inescapable thing.
Then again, so is Silverstream :rainbowlaugh:

A thank you to Reading4HalfMyLife for the final shove I needed to get a story for this adorable pair!

Note: Here's the timeline I'm working with.
(School starts middle of year ---> 1st Hearth's warming ---> Season 8 finale, 2nd HW(changed to mention in 1st chapter), ---> 8 months --> Start of fic.)

Chapter Two: Death by vita-min-itus

(Season 8 Finale Spoilers from here on out, be ye warned)

Happily trotting down the worn hiking path, Gallus glanced over to see if Silverstream was still at his side. Of course she was, padding alongside the gryphon with a smile, one that changed into a very tender look if he happened to meet her gaze.
Every time he caught that caring look, it felt like his heart was going to overload. Nobody had ever looked at him with such affection before.

It was almost too much to take in, but in a good way.

The date at Sugarcube Corner the day before had been…interesting. If not for the fact his other four friends showed up after about twenty minutes, it would have gone off without a hitch.

Well, at least they knew about him and Silverstream now; and with minimal jokes too. That was especially a wonder considering how Silverstream had answered Smolder’s question as to why they were there together.

“HE’SMYSPECIALSOMEGRIFF!”

Gallus’ head had hurt for a good hour after smacking it into the table at that. The ecstatic hippogriff had whispered an apology, but how could he stay mad at her? The excitement and joy behind those purple eyes had shattered any annoyance that dared linger after a moment.

Karma had decided to attack though, and with good purpose. Sandbar had simply raised an eyebrow as he sat next to Ocellus, smirking ever so slightly.

“Huh. And after all the jokes you sent towards us? Really?”

What could he say to that? Gallus had just groaned and waved a set of claws.
“Fair point. I guess I deserve a good few jokes from you two. To be cashed in whenever.” He sighed.

The conversation had then settled smoothly into what they were going to do with the last day or so of the long weekend. As the other four chatted, Gallus hadn’t missed the few looks Silverstream had cast his way. There was something deeper behind her eyes; and the fact she seemed to almost be on the verge of tears a few times. Not in a sad way, but a very happy way.

Hopefully he’d find a way and time to ask her about it. With the official special-somegriff title, Gallus had been wracking his brain for how in the world to even do that.

All he could come up with was exactly what Silver had said; be himself. The knowledge that Silverstream cared about him though had ignited a certain protective….something towards her. The idea of her being sad now hurt more than before; was that how it all went?

His thoughts came to a halt as a very large distraction collided with his face in the form of a tree.
“Gallus? You alright? Or…is walking off the path into a tree a common thing?” Silverstream quipped with a grin, now hovering next to him.

“Nah. Just was thinking, a bit too much apparently.” The gryphon responded with a slight grumble.

“About uuuuusssss?”

Gallus sighed, not able to be more than a smidge annoyed at the ecstatic hippogriff looking at him.
“Um, duh?”

“REALLY? OHMYGOSHIDIDN”TEXPECT-Umm, it’s in a good way, right?” She chirped, landing to walk beside him once again.

“Definitely a good way. I’m just new to this. I think you have a better idea what to expect.” He quickly interjected, not wanting her to get the wrong idea.

“…YAY!”

Gallus bit back a chuckle at hearing her response; noting a slight hesitation though. Odd. He fished around in the small satchel that hung around his neck, handy for small errands and the like. On feeling a small cylinder and giving it a shake, his ears flattened.

“Ah crud. I’m out. Erm, before lunch can we make a detour? I’ve gotta pick up something.”
She’ll find out eventually. Not like it’s a big deal or anything.

“Sure!”

They walked in silence for some time, just enjoying each other’s presence. That fact was another new thing to Gallus; not being up-tight around someone when alone. The path leading back near Fluttershy’s cottage and to the main road, Gallus aimed towards the Ponyville hospital; and the only pharmacy in town. Why he had to pick up the prescription there he didn’t know. It wasn’t like they were dangerous drugs or anything.

“The hospital?” Silverstream asked, head tilting rather adorably in curiosity.

“Yep. Just have to snag something. It won’t take long, and you can wait out here if you want.”

“I’ll come! I’ve never seen the inside of a hospital!”

Of course.

Thankfully, there weren’t too many ponies or any patients for that matter, so it was a simple task to give his name and pick up the already-paid-for item. Gallus took it out and sighed, placing the pills into his satchel.

“You can ask what they are. If you hold it in any longer you might explode.” Gallus sighed, having seen Silverstream look at the items intently as they walked down a side street.

“Okwhatarethose?” She blurted out, causing the gryphon to shrug.

“Just vitamins for gryphons.”

“…Vita-mins? IS THAT LIKE A CURE FOR A DISEASE? DO YOU HAVE VITA-MIN-ITUS?” Her ears pinned back suddenly at a thought. “Are you really sick? Is it deadly? You can’t be! You’re the first guy I-”

Her words cut off as Gallus reached over to place a set of claws on her shoulder-only, he missed. Instead of her shoulder, the gryphon found himself gently resting his claws against Silver’s cheek.

The affectionate look in her eyes caught him completely off guard as he sputtered to explain.
“I don’t have- that’s not even a disease. Vitamins are good stuff in addition to food. Healthy stuff? You didn’t have those?”

He asked, only half-aware of what he was saying. Silverstream had completely relaxed at his touch, an almost dreamy look on her face until he removed his claws.

“Um, Silver?”

“Bwa? Um, oh. Ok.” The fact her cheeks were even pinker than normal told Gallus something was up.

“So you didn’t have vitamins?” He asked, slotting her odd behavior away to ask about later.

“Huh? No, we just ate what foods were good for us. So vitamins are like, extra food? Super good for you?” She asked, blush still very present on her cheeks.

“Sorta? Like, it’s a concentrated formula that gives your body a boost of stuff it might not have. In my case, my body didn’t have much of anything.” He added with a shrug.

“I can explain more-just, let’s just get some food, yeah?”

“Mmmhmmm.”

Ok. Silverstream being calm and not-too-talkative is really starting to weird me out. But she seems ok…so what’s up?
Food first. Then ask.

They snagged some hayburgers and took them to go; heading down the main road again to a secluded hillside. Gallus had spotted it when flying over Ponyville a few weeks ago, and it seemed like the perfect place to hang out with Silverstream.
Hang out-Or was this date number two? Hanging out was now dating?

That conundrum made Gallus’ brow furrow, but at the end of it, Silverstream was here with him, and that was the goal. The gryphon was still getting used to the warm lump in his chest whenever he met Silver’s gaze though.

The hayburgers were devoured in moments; and the two sat sipping on some various juices as they looked out across a field.

“So, no death by vitamin-itus.” Gallus remarked with a slight smirk, popping one of the large pills into his beak with a grimace. “Bleh.”

Silverstream glanced over to him curiously, the gears clearly turning in her mind to put things together.
“But you look healthy? Why have these super special vitamin pills?”

Gallas’s wings drooped ever so slightly, and he held out one of the appendages briefly.
“Look at my feathers, do they look good, or not so great?”

Silverstream’s eyes narrowed as she examined his wing closely, and then promptly blushed as she looked at Gallus in general. “Y-you look really good. Erm. The feathers. And you.” She squeaked, prompting the gryphon to grin, the expression then fading.

“Thanks- but this is the first time I’ve looked like this. It’s taken over half a year to molt out the other feathers. Before now? My feathers and fur were horrible. Remember when we had that general checkup after saving Equestria? Something about making sure the magical fields didn’t clash with us or something?”

Silverstream nodded; they had all been cleared for a clean bill of health, including Gallus…

“Well I went back in a few more times. Apparently I wasn’t doing so great. They didn’t want to make it a big deal, even though it kind of was.” His voice got a bit softer, remembering the blunt explanation. “Basically, Princess Twilight said I was in the danger zone across all measures of health. If I had gotten anything worse than a cold, I’d have been in the hospital for a long time. Or worse. Apparently my bones were about as strong as glass too, it was a wonder I hadn’t gotten a fracture before.” Gallus continued softly, gesturing to his side. “Poke me here. Gently.”

Silverstream stared at him, and did so.

“I’ve got some muscle and stuff, but you probably didn’t feel that much squish.” Gallus let out a soft chuckle, which was offset by his flattened ears as worried thoughts spun in the back of his mind. “Funny how so many want to lose fat nowadays. Now, I’m needing to gain it. I’m finally within the ‘to-be concerned’ health zone now according to the Princess. It’s taken almost a year of good food to get me there. The vitamins are just a part of that, making sure I’m healthy in the right ways. Slowly building back everything to get me stronger, and not make me sick from it all. Don’t want to get too fat too quickly.”

The hippogriff stayed quiet, clearly troubled by his words but letting Gallus explain.

“Because of how things were in Griffinstone? This is all due to that?” She finally asked, her usually bubbly demeanor subdued under genuine concern.

“Yeah. Skipping meals for a day or two or more adds up over years and year. It got better recently though; a nice gryphoness gave me all the extra scones she baked at the end of the day. But that wasn’t too long before I came here. Probably the main reason I didn’t look like skin and bones. Barely.”

A sniff caught his attention, and Gallus looked over to see Silverstream wiping her eyes.

“…Silver?” He asked, scooting a bit closer.

“Just-you just didn’t deserve that. Nobody does.” The hippogriff whispered, shaking her head.

“Well, I’m still here and doing ok. I just have to follow the doctor’s instructions. I’d really rather not tick off the Princess.” Gallus mused, giving her shoulder a nudge with his own.

“So…when you were thinking I was about to die due to vita-min-itus, you said I’m the first guy tooooooooooo?” The gryphon asked, looking at Silverstream expectantly. He didn’t want her to dwell on his predicament any longer than necessary.

To his dismay, her ears flattened even further. That was not what he had wanted to cause at all.

“Silver?”

She sighed, toying with some grass with her claws.
“You’re the first guy I’ve liked who likes me back. Ever.” She finally whispered.

“What? That-wait, how? Why? You’re so happy and curious and just fun! That and being in a royal family, I’d have thought you’d have plenty of choices.”

Instead of me. The other dozens or more of hippogriffs who aren’t homeless orphans…

“I liked a few. But between the ones who just wanted the title of a noble, and the ones who…” Her voice trailed off, prompting Gallus to sigh. He reached over and pulled the unsettled hippogriff into a hug for a few moments.

“Look. I know something’s bothering you. If you don’t want to say anything, I won’t push. I know gryphons, including myself, can be a bit blunt and pushy. I won’t ask more if it’s too upsetting though.” Gallus said softly, feeling Silverstream lean into his embrace with a slight shiver.

“I’m just happy. And sad. And-is this how you feel? It’s so confusing! It’sIdunnojustUGH.” Silver mumbled, pressing her head against Gallus’ shoulder.

“Sad? About us?”

“NO!” Her face looked up at him with an embarrassed blush.

“Sorry. I’m super-duper happy about us. It’s-”

Silverstream let out a frustrated ‘MMMFFFF’ into Gallus’ feathers, briefly pulling out of his embrace to look at the ground, her wings sagging slightly. “The other ones I liked never liked who I was. I couldn’t be me around them. Their faces when I started talking or got excited- it hurt to see them change. To want nothing to do with me.”

“S-so to finally have someone want to be my special somegriff when I’m myself i-is just…it f-feels…”

Gallus gladly returned the hug as Silverstream yanked him close, a few sniffles leaving her beak “I may be new to this whole special somegriff thing, but remember that’s all based off one thing.” Gallus whispered, pulling his head back to look into her purple eyes, still shimmering with unshed tears. “Everything stems from liking you. Curious, spastic, happy, sometimes-ok often, over the top excitable you. That’s the Silverstream I care about. And I’ll gladly remind you of that.”

On seeing Silverstream’s eyes continue to water and a genuine smile edge onto her beak, warmth flooded through Gallus’ chest.

I can see why someone might not be used to your energy; but nobody should feel like being themselves is a bad thing. The gryphon thought as Silverstream snuggled closer in his embrace.

“I take it I’m doing alright at the whole special somegriff thing though?” Gallus asked, prompting a giggle from Silverstream.

“Uh huh. I’d say so.”

On a whim, Gallus moved back ever so slightly and rested the palm of his clawed hand against Silverstreams cheek, the hippogriff instantly sagged into his arms, a blissful smile on her face.

“Um. Silverstream? Does this mean something to hippogriffs orrrrrr?” Gallus asked, both amused and curious.

“N-no. I just always imagined my special somegriff doing this.”

Ok, that’s adorable. How long has she wanted someone to do this I wonder?….I guess I found Silverstreams‘ off’ switch! The gryphon mused happily.

After a few moments, Silverstream sighed and gently pressed against Gallus’ palm, eyes meeting his ever so briefly.
“It just makes me feel safe.” She whispered, prompting a rather wide grin from Gallus. He could relate to that. So this was comparable to a hug…

Good to know.

After a few moments, Silverstream shifted her head to rest against Gallus’ shoulder happily, letting out a soft hum.

“I never really would have guessed that you were this snuggly. Not complaining though. Super-duper happy about it actually. Special somegriff without hugs or stuff? Nooooooo thank you!”

Gallus tried to grumble; he really did. Instead it came out as a sigh.
“I think it’s only with you.”

“YAAAAAAY!”

Author's Note

Well, this exploded! :pinkiegasp:
I'm super glad that a people have enjoyed this! There's not too many stories with this pairing, so I'm glad I can hopefully do it justice! Feedback is always appreciated!
For this chapter, just explored how years of malnutrition could affect someone. And of course that's the tip of the iceberg....

That being said, I hope everyone is prepared for the fluffy chapters such as this. Because those are the norm! :pinkiehappy: Don't worry if the upload schedule is sporadic.
Again, a thank you to Reading4HalfMyLife for some input for Gallus!

Chapter Three: Migraine induced questions.

Gallus let out a moan, the pounding in his head making life in general a miserable affair. “Oh you’re doing much better Gallus. No side effects of the vitamins and diet so far. All is going well. Yeah, thaaaaaaaaaanks Princess.” The gryphon grumbled in the dark room, laying on the bed stomach-down with a cold cloth over his brow.

“A migraine? Huh. I guess those might happen now and again; but these medications will take care of that! ”
Ok to her credit, they did help. At least I don’t feel like dying anymore. Maybe it takes more time to kick in?

The past few weeks of school had been pleasant to say the least. Then again, knowing someone cared about you was a surprisingly positive boost in Gallus’ life.

He had not anticipated how much happier he’d be. Then again, that was yet another rooted doubt. Every other day or so, he and Silverstream had gone on walks, flights, dinner dates, or just hanging out alone. It had been almost perfect.
Almost.

She knew something was bothering him, but hadn’t pushed. For that, Gallus respected her all the more. It had become most obvious last week, when he couldn’t help but be slightly unsettled by his own musings. She was a perfectly positive influence in his life; his own thoughts on the other hand…

How do you ask your special somegriff ‘why me?’
Why the homeless orphan?
Why the one gryphon who had nothing to offer her?

Gallus sighed, the wave of pain in his head subsiding for a moment. No money, no home, no family…just him.
Was that really enough for Silverstream? Her actions and words said yes, but that was going against everything Gallus had known in the past. ‘You’ weren’t worth something, your actions were.

Well. I’ll mention it to her soon enough. Just didn’t feel right.

Thankfully, it was the weekend, and Gallus had already gotten his homework done. His other friends were enjoying the brisk weather of autumn, while he was here being attacked by a migraine. At least it was quiet, and the cold cloth on his forehead did seem to help.

With a soft squeak, the door creaked open, and Gallus heard the tell-tale footfalls of Silverstream.
“Hey Gallus, you doing ok?” She asked softly.

That alone was a blessing. If she had asked at full volume, his head might explode.

“Hey Silver…yeah, it just sucks. I’d like to hang out with you guys but this migraine is kicking my feathery butt.” He replied back, cracking his eyes open ever so slightly to see the concerned hippogriff standing at his bedside. “I thought you’d be out there with them, or are you just making sure I’m not dead?”

“Yeaaaaah that sounds about right. Everyone is splitting up for a late lunch, so I wanted to come see how you’re doing.”

Closing his eyes against the offending light, Gallus shrugged his wings slightly. “I’ve been better. Apparently this can be a symptom of being healthier. Yaaaay.” His voice had about as much enthusiasm as the wet rag, prompting a soft giggle.

“Well at least you’re getting better. Everyone has been worried you know.”

Gallus sighed, resisting the urge to nod lest he awaken the migraine monster again.
“I’m still glad they don’t treat me any different.”

Silverstream let out a slight huff, padding a bit closer.
“We’ve been over this. Friends don’t do that.”

“Yeah. I know.”

The hippogriff was quiet for a bit, and suddenly Gallus felt a pleasant warmth against his cheek. Cracking open his eyes and looking up, the gryphon saw Silverstream sitting next to him, but resting her cheek against his. Her gaze moved to look him in the eye briefly, and Silverstream’s beak widened in a slight smile.

“This alright?” She asked, moving to nuzzle his neck briefly.

“…If I ever say this isn’t alright, assume I’m a changeling.” The gryphon mumbled, enjoying her close touch and pressing back against her cheek with a smile.

The hippogriff was being strangely quiet, and Gallus gave her cheek a brief nudge. “Everything ok?” He asked, letting out a brief sigh of relief as the throbbing in his head lessened. “Oh thank goodness. The meds are actually starting to work….”

Silverstream let out a happy hum, but then Gallus felt her nod ever so slightly. “I’m glad. Just, I know something has been bothering you.”

Gallus took a deep breath and let it out slowly; it wouldn’t be fair to her to keep this up.
“Silver, remember when I- well, how I still think it’s crazy you haven’t been on a date before? The whole being a total catch and all? Funny, gorgeous…”

His cheeks instantly reddened; in terms of phrasing the gryphon hadn’t ever put it like that before.
I certainly haven’t said she was gorgeous before. Migraine losens my tongue apparently.
….I should tell her more though. She is after all.

Silverstream let out a squeak, trying to stammer out a response. “I-I don’t think you’ve-erm, said it like that, but yeah?” Her touch against his cheek certainly had jumped a few degrees in heat.

“I guess it comes down to, why me?” Gallus finally said, letting out another sigh. “I have no money, no home, no family in one sense; Nothing. I barely am healthy enough to be here. By pony and gryphon standards, and even hippogriff I guess, I’ve barely got anything to offer. Let alone to someone as incredible as you.”

“You really think that?” Silver asked, her tone not betraying much emotion.

“It’s what I’ve had to live by for my entire life. If you’re too nice, you get taken advantage of. If you don’t have anything to offer, then what good are you? It’s a hard thing to break, but the school has helped; you all have helped.” Gallus admitted.

To his surprise, Silverstream scooted her head underneath his to rest ever so slightly against his chest.
“You’re you. That means more to me than anything.” She whispered, letting out a happy sigh. “I mean where do I start? You make me happy. You actually like me. You’re just a nice and fun guy. You treat me like a friend-well, something more now, but not like a noble royal or anything. I can just be me with you. I guess you don’t realize how rare that is.”

Gallus didn’t miss how quiet Silverstream got as she pressed a bit closer, then pulled back to rest her cheek back against his.
“You also make me feel safe.”

He didn’t say anything for a time, just enjoyed Silverstream’s closeness and tried to process her words. It made sense, but went against everything he had grown up with.

Everything I think about myself.

“I think I understand it all.” He said slowly. “But, it’ll take some getting used to. Being worth something I mean.” His words prompted an immediate gasp and a very tight hug. To Gallus’ surprise, he felt Silver take in a shaky breath, a determined and affectionate touch brushed across his cheek.

“You are worth something so many people. Your friends, professors.” Silver’s voice got a bit softer. “And especially to me.”

Gallus felt the tell-tale warm lump rise into his throat, matched with a burning in his eyes. He didn’t know if he’d ever get used to it; knowing someone cared about him made the sarcastic gryphon want to cry. It was such an alien and welcome feeling that on a good day it was almost overwhelming. On days like this, where he just hurt and felt cruddy? He wanted nothing more than to just hug-oh why not?

Despite a throb of pain in his head in protest, Gallus took a shaky breath, reaching over to wrap his arms around the surprised hippogriff.

“Thank you Silverstream. Really.” He whispered, enjoying the feeling of security of her arms returning the gesture.

“Anytime. I love your hugs.” She chirped back happily.

“I’ll be sure to remind you by the way. How much you mean to me and everyone. Oh! Maybe a party-”

“N-not there yet Silver. I still am a mess if we hug in front of people.”

“I know. It’s adorable. You get so puffy and-”

Gallus simply chuckled as her voice drifted off, then giving her a final squeeze before returning to lying back on the bed.
“Thanks for checking in on me Silverstream. Hopefully this headache will be gone soon, and maybe can say hi to everyone in the evening.” He mused, putting the damp cloth back across his brow.

The hippogriff ran a set of claws through his headfeathers, then letting out a happy hum as she padded for a door.
“Ok! I hope you feel better soon Gallus. I’ll come and say hi either way!”

“I don’t doubt that.” He chuckled, closing his eyes with a happy sigh.
Not a bad migraine treatment. Medicine, and my special somegriff.

Author's Note

I'm ecstatic at the positive reception this story has gotten! I have a general idea where it is going, but if anyone has a random idea for a one-shot...feel free to suggest it. I have a general road-map, but plenty of space for fluffy adorableness!

For an advanced warm-and-fuzzy experience, here's a good audio track that fits this piece/other chapters.
Take My Hand- Adrian Von Ziegler
Or
I love you forever- Two Steps From Hell

Feedback always welcome!
p.s. Migraines SUCK.

Chapter Four: Pukwudgies, Timberwolves, and Cockatrice’s oh my! Part 1

“Silver, my pride won’t survive this you know.” Gallus grumbled, shifting the large backpack between his shoulders. The pair walked along a slightly-tread path leading through the thick forest.

“Huh? Why? So we got lost on a camping trip, big deal! We’re not even in the Everfree! Erm, right?” The chipper hippogriff remarked back with a characteristic smile.

“Technically not, but there’s no defined line in the forest here. There’s also still a storm coming. And what I mean is, our other four friends are totally going to think we ditched them for…reasons.” Gallus replied, a light blush starting to color his cheeks.

I mean, we haven’t even kissed yet. I mean a peck on a cheek yeah, but not-!
In terms of how much I’ll hear about this from Smoulder, that fact does not help at all. Last I heard, dragon’s don’t do the ‘slow romance’ thing.

“Why would we ditch them? We planned this for a good few weeks, but at least there’s other schoolmates in the general campsite so they won’t be alone either!” Silverstream remarked at his side as they continued along a path.

Gallus couldn’t resist. He could explain calmly.

Or he could turn Silverstream into a blushing adorable mess.

The gryphon completely failed at hiding his grin, calmly bumping into Silverstreams shoulder. “What I meaaaan, is they think we probably ‘got lost’ on purpose.” He sat down in front of Silver and yanked her into a very tight hug.

Of course that also prevented her from seeing his cheeky grin “As to why; well-” He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek, gently caressing down to her neck feathers and then back up to under her chin.

And just like that, he let Silverstream go and hopped back a pace. His efforts were not unrewarded in the slightest. The poor hippogriff was even pinker than normal, all her face feathers completely puffed out as she stared at him in shock.

“I-w-wa?” She stammered, still blinking at the chuckling gryphon.

“I’m sorry-ok not that sorry. It was too perfect, but the point stands.” Gallus said between barely contained bursts of laughter.

He walked a bit closer and pulled Silverstream into a hug again, this time making sure he could look in her eyes.
“I mean, I don’t mind being alone so I don’t have to hear Smolder laughing about how huggable I am.” He mused.
Oh boy. Knowing Smolder and dragons, they probably thought we snuck away for a different reason, like-
…oh. Oh dear.

Poor Silverstream’s blush only intensified, the hippogriff finally leaning into his hug and taking a deep breath.
“That was mean, but I can’t be mad though. I suppose they could think that, even though we haven’t even, well, gone past this stuff.” She whispered, then sagging into his arms as Gallus rested a set of claws on her cheek.

“Stuff like thiiiiiis?” He asked with a grin, the adoring look in Silverstream’s eyes filling his entire frame with warmth.

“N-not fair….mmmmmmm.” She mumbled, eyes glazing over slightly at his touch.

“We do have to find a campsite or something though. It’s probably going to rain.” Gallus remarked, not able to keep the smile off his face as he let Silverstream go. She let out a slight huff and continued to walk at his side as they started down the path again.

The fact she turned into putty with just a hug and a touch was an amazing feeling. It only reinforced Silver’s determined proclamation of how much she cared for him.

Someone cares for me.

The thought was constantly present whenever Silverstream was near; and Gallus was starting to think Silver was telepathic. Any time the usual thoughts crept in; his lack of family, home, anything, she’d-

A brief nuzzle on his cheek caused Gallus’ breath to hitch in his chest. “How do you do that?” He whispered, head shaking slightly.

“Hmm? You look sad sometimes. So I figure not so happy thoughts. If I had to gueeeesss, those thoughts involve you and some untrue-stuff about not being worth much. Soooooo, perfect time to remind you that I care.” She explained happily, Gallus letting out a grateful sigh.

“Thanks Silver. You’re pretty much on target for that.”

The affectionate look Silverstream cast Gallus’ way had his heart nearly beating out of his chest. Saying that another was looking at him ‘lovingly’ was not in his vocabulary, or even in realm of understanding. And yet this was the closest thing he could relate it too.

Maybe kiss her first THEN say the L-word. Sheesh. Do I even know what it means for that matter?
That was a musing for later, especially since a line of very sharp multicolored quills embedded themselves into the ground not a tail-length in front of the couple.

“Pukwudgies?” Silverstream asked softly.

“Pukwudgies. RUN!” Gallus exclaimed, dashing back down the path with Silverstream as no less than ten of the devilish porcupine-mutant things chased after them

Devilish porcupine mutants. Something to not call them around Fluttershy.

After a good few minutes of running, the two stopped, chests heaving. “I think, we’re good. And no quills!” Gallus gasped, then saw Silverstream grimace.

“Erm. I don’t think they liked our taste in sleeping bags though.” She said, pointing to the pack on his shoulders as well as her own.

Their two sleeping bags were indeed massive pincushions.

“Yeah, we’ll need to build a fire. At least we’ll have a tent. If that isn’t shredded.” Gallus sighed, gesturing to a small worn path that branched off to their right.

“That one looks like it leads to a clearing. Is as good as any I guess.”

“Sounds good!” The hippogriff was a upbeat as always, despite the loss of their primary method of staying warm.

The clearing must have been an old campsite, because there was a small dirt area where their tents would fit, as well as a simple but overgrown fire pit. After setting up their two small tents, it was a simple matter to clear out the grass and find some tinder to get a fire going.

“So if these don’t work, you know how to start a fire without matches?” Silverstream asked, as Gallus used the small pack of cheap matchsticks to try and ignite the pile of tinder.

“Yeah. It’s a pain. Flint and steel works best. But I can use the old type of two sticks and a bow, moving it back and forth.” He explained, letting out a sigh of relief as the pile ignited.

“Thankfully don’t have to do that though. It’s a pain, especially in winter.”

Gallus saw Silverstream’s ears and wings slump at his remark, and the gryphon scooted over to nudge her shoulder.
“Hey, you ok?” He asked curiously, also keeping an eye on the fire in the fading light.

“Just isn’t a happy thought. You trying to start a fire alone and cold.” She replied, forcing a slight smile onto her face.

Gallus sighed, looking at the fire and then back to the hippogriff. He wrapped an arm over her shoulders, Silverstream promptly leaning on him.

“Look, my life in Griffinstone might have been horrible, but right now it’s the total opposite. I’ve got friends, a new family, great food.” He mused, and let out a slight chuckle. “And, I’m not alone, and not cold in the slightest.”

Silverstream let out a happy hum at his words, then looking over to their shredded sleeping bags.
“Tonight is gonna be a cold one, huh?” She mused, prompting the gryphon to shrug.

“Eh. Probably. We might be able to use both bags as a blanket if nothing else. We’ll just have to see though.”

A dull boom of thunder caused Gallus’ ears to flatten, and he returned to all fours.

“Guess we should get some more wood. We should store it in the tent, keep it dry and the fire going as long as possible.”

“Oh! Good idea!”

As the two began gathering as much medium-sized logs as possible, Gallus heard a few twigs crackle.
The growl that followed was definitely not Silverstream’s stomach. Two, then four, then six green eyes stared at the young gryphon from the darkness.

“Of course Timberwolves.” Gallus muttered, slowly edging back to the fire. A familiar high-pitched voice then yelled out to his left.

“TIMBERWOLVES!”
Crud.

Author's Note

A shorter but two part chapter! Huzzah! The adorableness has been doubled!
Now, I have a question for everyone: WALL OF TEXT ALERT.

So I’ve changed the tag to ‘Teen’, mainly for snuggly adorable romance. (I can’t see the beginning chapter scene existing within the main show; ergo, Teen rating. Kisses, hugs, alllllll the fuzzy fluffy stuff I think falls within that rating.
…also the whole slightly-dark/depressing past of Gallus. If it’s ever explored further.)
(Was musing over adding another tag/possible jokes....but doesn't fit- thank you all for the feedback!)

Chapter Six: Counseling intervention due to snow

“Alright y’all, that’ll do it for today. B’sides, don’t want y’all to pull a muscle craning those necks to look out that window.” Applejack chuckled, half the class sheepishly looking at their desks. “So go on, enjoy it all!”

The silence erupted into excited chattering, the entire class pressing up against the classroom window to take in the sight. The first snow had started falling a few minutes prior, and the ponies and other creatures alike hadn’t been able to stop looking out at the white fluffy signs of winter. They had a break period next, and then lunch, which would give everyone a chance to go out and frolic in the new weather.

As everyone crowded against the glass, Gallus found his limbs turning to lead. On examining the snowfall outside, something inside of him had started to churn. Something felt off.

I need to get out of here.

Looking down, Gallus saw his claws were starting to shake, and even one of his rear limbs was starting to tremble.

“Hey Gallus? You ok?” Silverstream asked, eyes shining with worry as she walked over to him.

Must. Get. Out.

“I’m-I’m really not feeling that good actually. I’ll be back later. C-cya Silver.” He stammered, making his way to the door and then quickly jogging down the hallway. A strange panic rose in his breast as he struggled to find somewhere to go- anywhere that would relieve the strange fear that threatened to consume him.

A few twists and turns, and the gryphon found himself in the one place he had actively avoided the entire school semesters. But it was also the only place he knew nobody would walk into unannounced. Outside the door was a ‘Open- walk in appointments welcome!’ sign, and the gryphon quickly dashed inside and shut the door.

“Gallus? Well this is an unexpected-whoa, are you alright?” Guidance counselor Starlight Glimmer asked, eyes wide in surprise.

Gallus promptly flopped onto a nearby plush seat, waving a set of claws. “Y-yeah. Ok, no. Just…give me a bit.” He whispered, staring at his shaking claws.

Ten or so minutes passed, Starlight having looked over the notes she had on Gallus more than three times, and was now looking at the rest of her schedule. To say she was surprised was an understanding; until now she thought Gallus was allergic to even the idea of counseling.

But ten minutes ago, the gryphon had literally sprinted inside her office and flopped onto a chair, pale and shivering. For the past while, he hadn’t looked up at her, only stared at his claws and curled up tighter on the chair.

“I’m-I don’t know how to say it. Something is wrong. I don’t know what though.” Gallus muttered, wings drooping at his sides. “Maybe best to see if it happens again. Can you open the curtains?” He asked, Starlight now more curious than anything. She got up and drew back the thin blinds; made to obscure the outside but let some light in.

Almost instantly, Gallus’ eyes shrank to pinpricks, his claws starting to shiver again. “O-ok. This sucks.” He hissed, head shaking slightly as Starlight closed the blinds. “I see the snowfall, and I start shivering. Just before coming here I was afraid. I don’t know of what though. I don’t feel like that now. But I can’t stop this shaking.” He explained, or tried his best to.

“The snowfall…Well, Gallus, remember that nothing you say to me will leave this room unless you want it to, alright?” Starlight clarified before continuing. “I think I have an idea of what this is, but you need to hear me out, ok?” Seeing the gryphon nod, Starlight sighed.

You poor thing. How hard was Griffinstone on you Gallus?

“In short? You’re traumatized. Something about the snow is causing the reaction. Sometimes you can know what it is, other times not. I’ve read of ponies starting to shake like a leaf, even though they feel totally normal just because something in their subconscious was reminded of that trauma.” Starlight explained. “You don’t have to tell me anything Gallus. But if you see snow falling, or anything else for that matter, and this is the reaction? That’s my best guess.”

Gallus was quiet for a minute, and when he looked back up Starlight’s heart ached. The usually sarcastic and confident gryphon looked scared.

“Why now?” He whispered, shaking his head.

“If I had to guess? Hmm. Honestly Twilight would know more, but I won’t get her unless you give me the ok.” Starlight mused. “You’ve been at the school for a little over two years, give or take, and during that time, it’s been an adjustment. As stressful as it must have been, I’d have to guess that you’re in a better environment than before. Am I wrong?”

A simple shake of the head was enough of an answer.

“So, it’s taken that long for you to process everything that has happened before hoof-erm, claw. When we’re in the middle of something, we sometimes don’t realize how bad it really is, until afterwards. After the event, however long, maybe we then learn of how horrible it was, and then it weighs on us. I certainly can relate to that aspect of it.” She admitted, prompting a raise of an eyebrow.

“You? Seriously?” Gallus asked, prompting the pony to sigh.

“Gallus, I did some really stupid stuff, some really bad stuff before meeting Twilight. It’s not a secret in the slightest, but I’ll leave out the specifics. I didn’t realize how bad it all was until later. When that realization happened, I shook like a leaf for an hour, and it took two tubs of ice cream and plenty of reassurances from Twilight to snap me out of it.” Starlight sighed. “What I’m saying, is that in the moment, it didn’t seem like it was that big a deal. Afterwards, when I learned new things and was able to actually process what I did; that’s when it all came crashing down.” She then gestured to the gryphon. “I think that’s what is happening to you. You’re finally doing ok, and now you can begin to process everything else that has happened, whatever it is. I’m here to listen, or offer advice, or whatever you need.”

Gallus nodded slowly, not able to find any flaws in her thinking. Things had been building for a while; from confiding in Silverstream, to the strange surge of anger when fighting off the Timberwolves.

And Silver knows of course. She just doesn’t want to push me. Maybe…

He opened his beak- having an idea of what to say, but the words just stopped short. “Can I come back with Silverstream?” He asked quietly, prompting Starlight to nod.

“Of course. I should be free now, but can work something else in later if needs be.”

“Thanks St-erm, Miss Starlight.”

“Just Starlight is fine Gallus, see you soon.”

Gallus nodded, standing and opening the door-and saw a very concerned hippogriff sitting off to the side, her eyes meeting his briefly.

“You really didn’t look good, so I got worried.” Silverstream whispered, toying with her claws. “You doing ok?”

Gallus almost said the usual response; ‘Yeah. Sure.’ Or any other utterance he’d use. Instead, the gryphon shook his head. The warm tension in his throat threatened to clog his words, but he simply gestured to the door.

“Not really. But that’s what I was coming to find you.” He admitted, a dam of emotions breaching as Silver wrapped him up in a hug. The thoughts that but a few minutes before had seemed cold and untouchable now threatened overwhelm everything else. “You just-you make me feel safe. Can we talk? Starlight isn’t that bad actually.” Gallus admitted, taking a deep breath as Silver gave him a final squeeze and followed him through the door. Starlight didn’t say anything, but the genuine smile on her face was enough to put Gallus at ease, at least a bit.

As they sat down, Gallus gestured to Silverstream briefly. “Starlight, can you-what you told me? Too much for me to explain at once.”

Thankfully the counselor obliged, giving Silverstream the abridged version of what she thought ailed him. To Silverstream’s credit, she simply shrugged her wings and nodded, not seeming surprised in the slightest, only concerned.

Gallus then didn’t say anything for a time.. Instead of voicing everything, the gryphon realized the hardest part was admitting to himself what he was about to say. He felt more comfortable sharing it all with just Silverstream, but somehow having Starlight validate instead of ridicule things seemed to help more than hurt.

“I’m-I think I’m only now starting to realize how hard things were.” Gallus said slowly, looking at his claws.

Is the roof leaking? Why is there water falling under-oh.

It took him a good few moments to realize the source of the tears, and he definitely didn’t dare look up now. There was a slight comforting pressure at his side as Silverstream scooted closer, but she didn’t go further than that.

“It was pretty bad actually. But it was my life, and until now I didn’t realize how awful it was. I can barely talk about it, but you make it easier.” He managed to say, only now glancing over to Silverstream briefly.

“The snow, my claws shaking. There weren’t any orphanages in Griffinstone, not run by locals at least. There was only one building that did that; sponsored by a Canterlot charity I think. The two gryphon couples who worked there did it because they wanted to. But four individuals and one building…they could only do so much.” Gallus explained softly.

“There were not that many orphans in Griffinstone, but there were enough to fill the beds twice over. So every other day, or every two days if there was an influx of orphans, everyone switched. You got two full meals on your day, but that was the best they could do.” He took a deep breath, gesturing to the curtained window. “That was the worst day. When you had a bed, a warm bowl of food, even for one night. And then you see the snow start. And you know that the next day, you’ll be out there...”

With blurry vision, Gallus looked up to Starlight briefly. “This is just the beginning of stuff, isn’t it?” He asked, wings slumping.

“I don’t know. But if I had to guess, yes. I’d say you’ve got plenty of support though.” Starlight replied, a caring smile on her face as Silverstream leaned on his shoulder.

“Thanks Starlight. I-we’ll see about this again.” Gallus managed to say, sliding off the chair and glancing to Silverstream, Starlight nodding and going back to her notes.

“Can we-?”

“Lead the way.” She replied promptly, at his side as they walked out of the office.

The two didn’t say anything, but Gallus paused before stepping out of the door onto the thin layer of snow. The flakes falling weren’t as big as before, but provided a bit of a muting effect to any sound. It was honestly peaceful, when Gallus could look past the unpleasant memories of such weather. They meandered to the edge of the school grounds, sitting on a grassy hill under a tree. While ponies had to wear scarves and such, in mild winter weather such as this, hippogriff and gryphon fur was plenty warm.

As Silverstream scooted up against his side, Gallus took a trembling breath. “Silver, I-” His words were choked by the churning combination of emotions that overwhelmed his mind. “It’s a lot to deal with. I’m-I’m afraid you’ll…”

“What? Leave you? Not be friends? Not want to be special somegriffs? Just because you’ve had a rougher past than others? Pfft, nope, not a chance of that happening.” Silverstream quipped, giving a set of claws a squeeze with her own.
“You’re a good gryphon, my good gryphon, rough start or not.”

Warmth blossomed in Gallus’ frame as he held Silver’s claws tightly. “I did have to steal food at times to eat.” He admitted with a sad chuckle, masking at least a little, how desperate he had been.

“Still makes you a good gryphon. You were trying to survive. Would you have done it otherwise?” Gallus’ head shook briefly. “So, still my good special somegriff.” Silverstream chirped happily, wrapping a wing around Gallus affectionately.

“I don’t know how this is going to go, Silverstream.” Gallus admitted softly. “The shivering claws, it happened before when we fought those Timberwolves. Memories related to it. I don’t know what else will-”

“Gallus.” Silverstream’s voice was so laden with affection it caused Gallus’ heart to flutter in his chest.
“I’m here for you, ok? We’ll figure out that stuff as it comes.”

Now it was Gallus’ turn to snuggle closer to Silverstream, resting his head underneath hers.
“What about you? I’ve got enough stuff to deal with, but I don’t want to ignore anything you are going through.”

The hippogriff’s bubbly demeanor returned, Silverstream letting out a genuine laugh. She gave his cheek a nuzzle and then yanked him into a kiss that made Gallus see stars. “Gallus, I’m fine. I promise if anything does come up, I’ll let you know. All I worry about at times is you.” She then looked at him with a tender smile, placing a set of claws on his beak as the gryphon was about to speak. “And before you say ‘don’t worry,’ I care about you. And if anyone I care about, especially my special somegriff, isn’t feeling good, of course I’m going to worry. So shush.”

Gallus now couldn’t help but smile, Silverstream’s continually upbeat mood as infectious as always.
“Alright. Well, do nobles give kissing classes? Because if I had to say, you must have taken that course at least-”
Despite her blush being hot enough to melt the snow, Silverstream shut up the cheeky gryphon with another kiss, causing Gallus pulling her close with a happy chuckle.

As she pulled back briefly, Gallus was all smiles, no words able to express how much he enjoyed her close touch. Such a simple thing felt like it was starting to fill the gaping hole in his heart where no safety or comfort had ever been given.

And all because she wants to.

“So was that a yes? A maybe? Or-”

“Gallus. Shut up or I’ll kiss you again.” Silverstream grumbled with the worst attempt at hiding a smile yet. Gallus cleared his throat-

“This is the song that neeeeever eeeeeends, yes it goes on and on my-MMMFFF”

Author's Note

And thus Gallus' deep-rooted demons make their appearance. I figure X years(18+?) of living on his own leaves Gallus with a whole slew of unresolved stressors.
Thankfully a bubbly pink hippogriff doesn't seem to mind.

Made a change or two; to this point, the timeline is that he's been at the school for 2 years. (School starts middle of year ---> 1st Hearth's warming ---> Season 8 finale, 2nd HW(changed to mention in 1st chapter), ---> 8 months --> Start of fic.)
....I'm...going to put that at the starting notes actually. :rainbowlaugh:

Chapter Seven: A True Heart’s Warming celebration

The thick snow around the school muffled any sour feelings, joyous individuals scampering this way and that. Lights were hung on every window and eve, and more than a few small trees with ornaments dotted the halls and main rooms. Classes had gotten out early, and students were busy frolicking in the deep snow. On a small hill under a snow-laden tree, two individuals huddled together in the cold.

“So you’re heading back to Mount Aris then?” Gallus asked, Silverstream letting out a slight hum on his shoulder.

“Mmmhmm. Just for the break, then back here in a few weeks. The offer still stands to celebrate with us…”

“Silver, I-” The gryphon sighed, shaking his head. “I’d love to, but I can’t. If I’m going to meet your parents, then I don’t want it to be under those circumstances. If that makes sense.”

“It does. But doesn’t mean I won’t miss you.” Silverstream grumbled. “They’re going to ask sooooooooooo many questions. Ugh. And my brother. Oh he’s going to have too much fun at my expense.”

“It’s just for three weeks, and I’ve got plenty of individuals here I can hang out with. Ponyville isn’t so bad. Spike and Big Macintosh invited me for some sort of game with Discord, so I’ll have stuff to keep me busy.” Gallus mused, then hearing a slight sniffle.

“Silver?”

“It’s only three weeks. I know it’s stupid, b-but still…”

Gallus couldn’t help but chuckle softly; he had the perfect remedy for this. He scooted forward ever so slightly to face Silverstream, giving her cheek an affectionate caress with his own. She let out another sniffle, and Gallus leaned in to give her a gentle kiss. Just as Silverstream kissed him back, Gallus wrapped his arms around the hippogriff and pulled her closer, prompting a surprised squeak.

That squeak quickly faded as the gryphon poured every last bit of affection and gratitude he felt into the kiss, the world vanishing amid the loving gesture. If there was one thing he wanted Silverstream to know without a doubt, it was how much she meant to him.

Finally breaking the kiss, Gallus couldn’t help but smile as very happy but flustered hippogriff looked back at him.
“I’ll miss you too.” He whispered, Silverstream nuzzling under his neck for a few moments. The fact she sagged against him never got old. A loving gesture, and she turned to putty.

Yeah because you’re so much better….Gallus mused sarcastically to himself, which was true.

Silverstream stayed in his arms for a moment longer, then reluctantly pulling away ever so slightly. “We should probably say good-bye to everyone else.” She sighed, and Gallus nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, but no reason we can’t have a few minutes before you go. Should have a bit more time before the train leaves.” He added, Silverstream giving him a final nuzzle before the two made their way to the nearest building.

They walked the halls slowly, enjoying each other’s company. Silverstream opened the door leading to one of the larger lounges, and as Gallus poked his head inside-
“SURPRISE!”

The gryphon promptly fell on his rear, four familiar friendly faces beaming back at him with huge smiles. Silverstream’s giggles only affirmed her being in on all of this. While the room had the usual hearth’s warming decoration, there was a smaller tree in the center, with five small presents.

“Uh, guys? What’s this?” Gallus ventured to ask, picking himself up off the ground and walking closer.

“Well just because we’re heading home doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Sheesh.” Smolder grumbled, a slight smile actually twitching onto her features.

“It’s your own private hearths warming!” Ocellus beamed, Sandbar and Yona nodding in agreement.

“Your own tree and presents.” Silverstream explained finally, Gallus’ eyes widened in shock. A trembling smile slid onto his beak, and it was the gryphon’s turn to sniff, barely holding back tears.

“Y-you all didn’t h-have to….” The words stopped in Gallus’ throat, warmth spreading through his frame as he looked away, a few small tears escaping his eyes.
They really are my family.

Silverstream walked up close and put a clawed hand on Gallus’ cheek, a tender smile on her face as she nodded. “When you care about someone, it’s what you do.” She whispered, tightening her arms around Gallus in a hug that was promptly increased four-fold.

Releasing the gryphon from the massive hug, a certain Yak looked at the gryphon curiously. “Gallus like?” Yona asked, the others looking on curiously.

“Not just like, Yona. I love it. Thank you, thank you all.” Gallus replied, a genuinely tender smile on his beak.

“YAY! Gallus should open presents!” Yona added, bounding over to the tree.

Even Smolder was actually smiling ever so slightly as Gallus opened the simple gifts; A cider-drinking stein from Yona, an ever-changing sapling tree from Ocellus, a durable satchel from Sandbar…

“Whoa. Is this lava?” Gallus asked, looking at the miniature stone pool.

“Yep. It’s a weird magical type that stays bubbling for ages.” Smolder remarked, gesturing to the rock piece. “There’s crystal cover on the top in case it tips over, but I honestly don’t know how long that’d last…”

“Dangerous gift. Cool.” Gallus remarked with a grin.

“Thank you, really. Thank you for this. I-” Words got stuck in his throat, and to Gallus’ surprise, it was Smolder who stood and gave his shoulder a friendly bump with a fist.

“We get it dude. And you’re welcome. Happy Hearth’s Warming.”

Gallus was then in the middle of another piled-on hug, the gryphon then wishing each of his friends farewell for the break as they left to catch the various trains. As Smolder was leaving, Gallus saw a very flustered purple dragon hovering in the air in the hallway with a small gift box. He had never seen Smolder blush, let alone that fast and bright.

Huh.

Now alone with Silverstream, Gallus took the small box from her with a curious head tilt. She had held her gift for last, so that had him intrigued…

Opening the box, the gryphon felt his heart skip a few beats. It was a small item; just a piece of string with three small objects on it.

“S-Silver.” He whispered, glancing up to her.

“You do know what-”

“I did quite a bit of reading on it, so yes. I know what means. Why do you think I’m giving it to you?” She replied with a wide smile. Set on the sturdy cord of Gallus’ present was a single pink feather, flanked on either side by a seashell and a stone from Silverstream’s ocean. It was a gryphon tradition almost older than Griffinstone itself.

The giving of such a necklace, set with a feather from yourself and two items from your home, was a sort of claim on the wearer. If they chose to wore it, it was an outward sign to other possible interests to back off. Likewise, there was an honor system around if you dared break the necklace of another.

It wasn’t like a pony’s engagement rings or anything; but something to be worn for the duration of a relationship, wherever it may lead. To present such an item to another was about as close to a physical ‘I love you’ as you could get. Clasping the sturdy cord around his neck, Gallus looked in a nearby mirror, dampening eyes quickly obscuring his vision.

I never thought anyone…

The second he felt Silverstream leaning on his shoulder, he turned to pull her into a tight hug. “Thank you Silver. Thank you. I-” He shook his head, simply burrowing into her neck fur with a shaky breath. “You won’t have to wait long for yours. I promise.” Gallus whispered fiercely into her fur, a pleasant shiver running through the hippogriff’s frame. Feeling her chest rise with his, and the small movements Silverstream made to snuggle closer only made Gallus’ heart burn more.

Someone wants to be close to me.
Me. Of all gryphons.

“I don’t want to let you go.” He whispered, emotion clogging his throat. It was brief moments like this, holding her close that made Gallus realized how much Silverstream meant to him.

And what I’d give to not let this end.

Reluctantly pulling apart briefly, Gallus gave her a final kiss with enough intensity to make the bubby hippogriff squeak, a happy smile on her beak as he broke the gesture. "You have a train to catch. I’ll see you soon, alright?” He said, Silverstream giving his claws a squeeze. “Have a good holiday Silver, ok? I’ll try to write a letter if I can manage it. Might take that long to just get there.”

She nodded, giving him another hug, still sporting the genuine and affectionate smile on her beak. “I’d like that, and you too Gallus. I’ll s-see you soon!” She then trotted out the door, Gallus not missing the slight hitch in her voice.

For a time, Gallus examined the gifts from his friends, each having a practical use as well as being unique to the giver.
They were perfect.

The gryphon looked out at the snow, thankful that this time his claws didn’t shake.

I want to tell her so many things. But first those three words. Three words that would unlock so much; actually opening up to someone.
And yet…

After the thought spun around in his head for a few minute, Gallus let out an annoyed huff; an idea then coming to mind. Specifically, it concerned when Fluttershy had invited Discord to a lesson.

Maybe…

“Hey. Discord. You can hear me right?” Gallus asked, letting out a grunt as silence answered him. “Well. Knowing you, you could be messing with me. I had some questions.”

In an instant, the familiar Draconequus snapped into view, clad in what appeared to be a full suit of armor. “SALUTATIONS SIR GALLUS! You have questions about our upcoming game? Oh FINALLY another adventurous soul!” Discord crowed happily, doing a flip midair. To the chaos god’s delight, Gallus nodded with a slight chuckle.

“I actually do have quite a few questions about this game. Before that though, I had a different one.”

“Oh?” Discord asked, the armor vanishing and being replaced with a bowl of popcorn in his clawed hands, the Draconequus hovering and munched on the contents. The chip-like eatables were apparently small versions of his wings.

“How did you open up to Fluttershy?”

Discord promptly rammed his fist to his chest, coughing up some stuck wing-chips as he glared at Gallus. “You have to warn be before launching THAT sort of question cannonball at me! Good heavens!” Discord grumbled, shrugging his shoulders with a roll of his eyes. “And what do you mean ‘open up?’ I’m just good friends with her!”

Gallus stared at the Draconequus, shaking his head.
“You know what I mean.”

The chaotic god stared down the gryphon, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly. “You are quite the observant one, I’m surprised. And that doesn’t happen often.” Discord muttered, snapping his claws. Every surface of the room promptly was locked up; shutters on the windows, locks on the doors, and even the floor was sporting a large spiked padlock across it. “Alright Gallus, but this doesn’t leave this room. I can’t handle too much of this genuine stuff. It’s bad for my heart.”

“We’re talking about Fluttershy, and you say it’s bad for your heart, really?” Gallus quipped, smirking as Discord groaned, pulling his face down as though made of rubber.

“Touché. That was good, I’ll give you that.” Discord replied, taking a deep breath. “Hold on.” He popped some large pills into his mouth, pulled from a blue box labeled ‘emotional laxatives.’ “I’d suggest you try these, but I doubt you’d have any bones left. Mythical strength and all that.” Discord added, then sighing.

“To answer your question, I didn’t do anything different. In short, I was myself. I tried not being myself to make her more comfortable once, and it nearly destroyed me.” He poked a claw towards the gryphon; more specifically towards the pink feather around his neck. “Looks like to me being yourself is exactly what she wants. If you’re talking about opening up in terms of talking, and concerns and-” Discord took another deep breath, as though the words were of titanic difficulty. “Your feelings and such, then I’d say do it when it’s the most comfortable. For me, it’s never comfortable, only stages of uncomfortable. So when that’s at the least amount. Does that make sense? I don’t know if I can handle repeating that.”

Gallus nodded slowly, holding out a set of claws in thanks. “It does. Thank you Discord. Really.”

The Draconequus took the offered claws, and shook the gryphon’s hand without so much as a pranking shock, the locks and shutters vanishing abruptly. “You are quite welcome Gallus, you’re actually of the more interesting individuals I’ve seen. Also one of the few who almost ate one of my creations during my brief time leading the school…”

Gallus chuckled, shrugging his wings. “It DID try to bite me. I just bit back.”

Discord chortled, laying on his side with a wide grin. “So, you DO have questions about our upcoming game?

Gallus nodded, listing off his top curiosities about Ogres and Oubliettes. In short, the who, what, when, where, why, and how.

When Discord was done explaining and showing with animated sock puppets, Gallus felt a slight thrill run through his frame.
“That sounds awesome. Can we have a miniature game now? To practice of course.”

The wide grin on Discord’s face was answer enough as he snapped a set of claws.

A week later, Silverstream was lounging in her Mount Aris room looking through some of her old journals and musings when a pony-sized scroll ‘POPPED’ into existence in front of her.

‘Hey Silverstream! Thanks to Discord I was able to write this special note. I’m having a blast (see the picture below,) and hope you are too

For the special part about this note, lean in towards the paper...’

Silverstream let out a slight huff, leaning in to the paper-and was promptly grabbed into a hug, blue-furred arms pulling her close.

“G-Gallus?!” She squeaked, looking at the portal formed in the center of the massive parchment, and the gryphon who held her in his arms.

“Yup. Courtesy of Discord. That guy actually has quite a big heart if you can believe it. Can’t take too long though.” Gallus replied, yanking the surprised hippogriff into a loving kiss. The fact Silverstream didn’t even hesitate to return the passionate gesture sent pleasant shivers down his spine.

As they broke apart, Gallus placed a small object into her claws; a sturdy chord with a blue feather, surrounded by a piece of metal ore from the Griffinstone mines, and smooth polished stone.

“Getting to Griffinstone is faster taking the Discord-train. So, I promised you…” He mumbled, cheeks reddening. Silverstream’s eyes watered as she fastened the necklace around her neck, then letting out a giggle. It perfectly matched with the necklace holding the magical pearl shard, standing out brightly against her pink feathers and fur.

“Thank you Gallus. I-this feels better? Is that the words?” Silverstream asked, prompting Gallus to chuckle.

“I think the word is official. And I’d agree. I have to go though, I’ll see you in two weeks!” A brief kiss on the cheek, and the gryphon waved before the portal vanished, leaving Silverstream smiling with teary eyes.

As she looked at the picture attached, the hippogriff doubled over in giggles. It was a picture of Spike, Big Macintosh, Discord, and Gallus, all with varying forms of armor and apparel fighting off what looked like hordes of paper zombies.

Her giggles then turned into a massive blush, her heart thudding in her ears.
Even if it was paper armor, Gallus looked good.
Like. Really, really really good.

Back in Ponyville, four voices rang out as one in an excited battle cry;
“HAVE AT YE, ZOMPONIES!”

Author's Note

This was a fun chapter to write. I could see Gallus getting alone with Discord actually.
(a thank you to Kurusagi16 for the idea!)

One more chapter to go (other than the small addition to this one, which is next.) It'll be the big finale (possibly a 2 part) before the sequel which will be linked at the end and be published at the same time. A fairly smooth transition!

A thank you again to all those who have favorited and given feedback! Hope you all continue to enjoy it, and the upcoming sequel!

Chapter Seven and a Half: A true Heart’s Warming celebration x1.5

Gallus raised a set of claws, knocking on the door of the most well-painted building in town.

“Come iiiiiiiiiiin!” A familiar sing-song voice trilled out, the gryphon then walking inside. “Welcome to-Oh! Hello Gallus, what can I do for you?” Rarity asked, setting aside her current project.

“Miss Rarity, I was wondering if you knew, erm-” Gallus took a deep breath, trying to set the words in order. “I want to learn to dance.”

Rarity let out a curious “Hmmmm,” regarding the sheepish gryphon with interest. “Oh? But you and your class have been doing quite well, if I do say so myself. I know the Hearts and Hooves dance is months away, but I’m quite happy you all have shown interest in getting an early start! I mean Silverstream already knows plenty more advanced bits, but…”

A strange surge of confidence flooded through Gallus' frame as he shook his head, taking a few steps forward. “Miss Rarity, that’s not what I mean. If I’m going to dance with the one I care about most, I don’t want to do some simple steps. I want to dance, as she knows how to already.”

The excited glow in Rarity’s eyes made Gallus back up slightly, the mare letting out a high pitch (and slightly adorable,) squeal. “OOOOOH of course! So romantic, I’m ashamed I didn’t realize that before. What did you have in mind?” She asked, her intensity making Gallus stammer slightly.

“I-I erm, private lessons maybe? Right after school or evening? Not making a big deal out of it, if possible…” He added, looking to his claws with a bit of a blush.

“Oh my, aren’t you quite the gentlegryphon. You want to surprise her at the dance then?” Rarity asked, clearly already musing things over.

“That’s the idea.”

Rarity let out another happy squeal. “Oh of COURSE I’ll help!” She then turned to look at the gryphon with a serious expression. “I promise I won’t breath a word of it! If you can be here an hour after school each day, or every other day, you can say I’m helping you with classwork.” A genuine smile then lit up the Element of Generosity’s face. “Quite a noble endeavor Gallus, I have to say.” She added, prompting Gallus to shrug, looking at his claws briefly.

“Noble? She just-I don’t know how to really tell her how much she means to me. So maybe this can show her in a small way.” He said softly, ears pinned back.

Huh. No choking on sentences this time.

A gentle touch on his shoulder snapped the gryphon back to reality- looking up to see Rarity smiling at him. “I think this will certainly do that; and to a lady, this would be quite a big way. Quite the knight in shining armor…” The mare replied with a grin. “I’ll see you tomorrow, unless you’d prefer to wait until after the break?”

Gallus let out a huff, shaking his head. “I’ll be here tomorrow afternoon Miss Rarity, rain or shine.”

The mare waved as he left, maintaining her composure until the gryphon had closed the door.

Despite being outside, Gallus could still hear the high pitched squealing of excitement as Rarity bounced around inside her boutique, her words still echoing in his mind.

Knight in shining armor? And that’d make Silverstream the Princess? He let out a slight huff, making his way back to the school.
I mean, that armor I have when playing Ogres and Oubliettes does feel great. Maybe next year I’ll-
With a slight shake of his head, Gallus trudged through the snow-covered streets, a smile meandering onto his beak.
First things first.

Author's Note

Mini chapter with hints to the finale!

Chapter Eight: Dancing From The Heart

Hearts and Hooves day was an odd affair. For Gallus, until moving to Ponyville he didn’t even have a concept of the idea. The first year he experienced it the day just seemed to just be an excuse to eat lots of candy and shower your special somepony with affection.

The second year, not much else had changed; except now Gallus felt like he was missing out of something. Not in the holiday itself, but in what it represented. It was like a hole had revealed itself, the gryphon never knowing it had been gouged in the first place.

In short, the second year had not been fun.

The third Heart and Hooves Day just last week had been the polar opposite of the past years though. It had been simply another date night for he and Silverstream; both of them just happy to have the chance to spend time with the other. Well, that was mostly true; they had spent a longer time together than most dates, but nothing too extravagant. Dinner and exploring south of Ponyville, just enjoying the company of each other.

The main event was this week though; a semi-formal dance the students had been preparing months for.
While the dance was on Gallus’ mind, the current individual snuggling close to him garnered his full attention. Loving pink arms hugged him close, and two purple eyes brimming with affection gazed back at him. Sitting underneath their favorite tree, Gallus couldn’t think of much that would rival holding Silverstream in an embrace.

The gryphon’s heart rose to his throat and warmth flooded his frame as Silverstream nuzzled her head underneath his, resting against his chest. Gallus wasn’t sure if he’d ever get used to the idea of having a special somegriff.

Someone who actually wants to be close to me, enjoys my company and wants to make an effort just to be with me.
Me.

The adoration in Silverstream’s eyes whenever she looked at him was enough to almost pull Gallus to tears. All his life, nobody had ever given him a passing glance, let alone one with such genuine and sincere affection. Now, there was someone who wanted nothing more than to be with him.

I really hope to show you how much that means to me Silverstream.

Gallus had to suppress a wide grin at that thought. The past few months had been difficult; keeping his secret project hidden and all. Thankfully, he seemed to have pulled it off. Silverstream had no idea…

And to think, I actually like dancing.

The lessons with Rarity had been every other day at first, and then daily commitments. Gallus had offered to somehow compensate her for the time, be it the few bits he owned or maybe helping in the shop, but the Element of Generosity had lived up to that title. In her own words; “Love has no price darling! Now on to the next set of moves!”

It had been especially tricky to hide his knowledge during the after-school practice with other students, and yet nobody was the wiser. Silverstream had taken a ton of classes for formal balls and such, being royalty and all. So she actually was able to help teach other students when they were having trouble, making it easier for Gallus to not reveal his newfound skills.

Gallus wasn’t sure if he was on her level yet, but Rarity had given him the stamp of approval last week; Three different styles, and advanced moves in each.

“I’d say you dance better than many-nay, MOST ruffians at balls I’ve been to! So I’d say you’re ready, Gallus!” Rarity had crowed happily, having given him a simple yet elegant bow-tie as a congratulatory gift.

Dark silver in color, it was enough of a simple adornment to dress up for such an event. Gryphons and Hippogriffs didn’t have much in the sense of clothing like ponies did, so this was about as fancy as he could get.

“Rarity, I can’t thank you enough.” It was still a new thing to Gallus to be genuine from the heart, but the mare had simply given him a friendly hug, nodding in approval.

“It has been my pleasure Gallus.”

Silverstream shifted in his arms, prompting the gryphon to snap back to the present. “Y-know, the dance will start in about two hours.” Gallus mused, Silverstream letting out a sigh.

“I knoooooooooooow. But that leaves like, an hour and fifty-nine more minutes of this.” She chirped, pulling back to give her special somegriff a tender kiss. Gallus would have never thought the range of affectionate gestures one could give; or in this case, receive. He wasn’t about to complain about any of them obviously, but gentle kisses seemed to have a different feeling; always a good one though.

Not able to resist a genuine smile, Gallus took a set of her claws in his and gave them a squeeze. “I’d like to think that’s a possibility, but I do need to get ready and stuff. As do you.” He let out a soft hum. “I mean, I think you’re gorgeous as is, so anything else is just a bonus. Not like it-MMMFFFF”

The fiery kiss that followed made Gallus’ heart swim and see stars. Fully aware of the stupid grin on his face, the gryphon looked at the smug hippogriff as she pulled back briefly. Obviously she enjoyed his reactions as much as he did hers; but whenever Silver decided to give him a kiss like that, it completely erased any other thoughts.

Who knew that kisses could be so nice?

“I mean, that’s one way of directing the conversation.” He chuckled, letting out a sigh as he stood up slowly.
“We do probably need to get ready though. I’ll see you there of course. If you can pull me away from the snack table that is.” Gallus quipped, making Silverstream pout and glare at him.

The fact a smile threatened to split her beak made it a bit less intimidating.
“You’d better treat me to at least once dance.”

Gallus grinned and gave her cheek a nuzzle, finally nodding.
“Well of course.”
Silver, you have no idea. We’re going to dance the night away.

The two parting to head to their respective rooms, Gallus busied himself with combing down his feathers and fur after a quick shower. A bit of oil to add to the sheen, and then the lovely silk bow-tie from Rarity. He turned it over in his claws, noticing a very subtle detail. Set in the corners with subdued maroon thread, was the Griffinstone crest.

I can’t run from where I’m from, or how I grew up. But I can at least own it.
It was more difficult than it seemed; when getting the pieces for Silverstream’s necklace, Gallus nearly had a full-blown panic attack as he had walked the streets of Griffinstone a few months earlier.
Well, a work in progress at least.

The necktie complimented his blue fur and feathers perfectly, standing out amidst the cream color on the gryphon’s chest.
He actually looked rather good. That was another addition on the list of ‘huh, this is a new thought.’

“Yo, you ready?” Sandbar called, knocking on the door.

“Yep, better early than late I guess.” Gallus replied, opening the door and looking over the pony. Clad in a simple suit and tie, Sandbar certainly looked well put together.

“Lookin’ good. Going to impress some’ling?”
A bright blush on Sandbar’s cheeks was a good affirmative answer, the gryphon walking out with the stallion as they headed to the main gymnasium.

The halls were artistically decorated with varying hearts-and-hooves day apparel, but not enough to be garish.

Thankfully.

The actual holiday had nearly blinded Gallus with all the shades of pink assaulting his vision. There was really only one shade of pink he enjoyed being close to, and none of the decorations were Silverstream-toned.

Since when did even thinking about her hugs make me feel warm?
Is that a new thing?

Reaching the main building, Gallus glanced around at the repurposed gymnasium. The bleachers were shoved back against the wall, a plethora of simple plastic snack tables and chairs taking their place. There was a snow-white pony with large shades adjusting some speakers and sound systems at the front of the building, overlooking what appeared to be the dance floor. The lighting was decent (thankfully,) so Gallus wouldn’t get a headache as his brain tried to adapt to night or not. The lights would likely dim, but that would probably be a gentle effect rather than an abrupt shut off…

“I’m, um, going to find Ocellus.” Sandbar stammered, causing Gallus to blush and give him a hoof-claw bump.

“Hope you have fun dude. Cya.” Gallus remarked with a grin, sitting near the entrance to look over the early occupants. More students streamed in, many already having a dancing partner (or romantic one for that matter.) The alabaster DJ cued up a bit of light background music, causing Gallus to tap a few of his claws in time to the beat.
I wonder if something like this could ever happen in Griffinstone?

The gryphon’s musings ground to a halt as he spied a familiar shade of pink walk in through one of the side doors with a few of the other girls.

Meandering his way in that general direction, Gallus was about to wave as she turned-

Whoa.

It wasn’t anything jarring; but a subtle few changes that weaved Silverstream’s character into a sight that made Gallus’ heart skip. She wore a plain yet graceful silver tiara nestled into her head feathers, along with an interesting teal-silk half shawl that draped over the tops of her shoulders.

It was only when Silverstream was closer and began to giggle that Gallus realize he had been staring. “I hope I don’t have a second head or something.” She quipped, the blush on her cheeks giving a clear hint she knew exactly why he had paused.

“With how gorgeous you are, I don’t think that’d matter. Might make conversation awkward though.” Gallus finally replied, a tender yet slightly dopey smile plastering itself on his beak. “You really do look amazing Silver.” He added, prompting a quick kiss from the hippogriff.

“Well same to you. Quite the handsome gryphon as always, if I do say so myself. Simple yet dressy.” Silverstream giggled back, looking him over briefly. Or rather, not-so-briefly, a blush quickly starting to rise on her cheeks.
I think that’s the first time anyone has ever called me that…ok now she definitely staring.
Awesome.

“So did we both grow two heads, or?” Gallus asked with a cheeky grin, Silverstream pouting as best as she could. He had to give her an ‘A’ for effort, but the bright blush and affectionate gaze destroyed any real pouting chance.

“Just admiring my special somegriff.”

Giving Silverstream’s cheek a gentle caress with his own, Gallus’ frame flooded with affection as she sighted contentedly.
Headmare Twilight’s voice came over the speakers briefly, explaining the general layout of the dance, emergency exits, best ways to get punch out of clothing-

Thankfully Spike was there to step in with a much shorter list of things; ‘Snacks to the sides, general school rules, and have fun!’

As a few couples began to sway back and forth to the background music, Gallus couldn’t help but barely contain his excitement.
“When the song starts, may I have this dance, Silverstream?” Gallus asked, bowing and offering his claws to the hippogriff.

With a muffled squeal of joy, Silverstream’s wings flared out briefly before taking his claws in hers.
“You most certainly may.” She replied, using a rather royal and smooth tone that had Gallus’ ears perk up.

The first three songs were from their practicing sessions; allowing all the students to get acclimated. It also got rid of the nerves for many, since it was steps everyone had practiced before. Gallus led Silverstream smoothly through each motion, not letting any of his other practice show though. They were one of only a few bipedal dancers; since for ponies it was an advanced technique.
The fact Silverstream was just all smiles indicated she had no idea what was coming.
Even this simple stuff, she’s just happy to dance with me.
That thought brought a smile to Gallus' face; how could it not? Someone just enjoyed being in his company.

Seeing Twilight take the small stage next to the DJ had the gryphon’s brief attention. What was she doing with that microphone-oooooh.
As a vaguely familiar song began to play, Gallus almost laughed.
This. Is. Perfect!

Shifting his stance, Gallus yanked Silverstream close with a sly grin.
“Hey Silver?” He whispered, the hippogriff now looking at him curiously.

“Hmm?”

“Let’s dance.”

Recommended: Appropriate Music 1

The music blasted out of the speakers in a wave of energy, almost every pony dancing in some fashion, on the floor or not. Every creature’s head began to bob as Twilight began to sing, her strong voice blending perfectly with the music. Shifting into a face-paced swing stance, Gallus swung Silverstream out, pulling her back into a close hold with a grin- and a matching squeak from the surprised hippogriff.

“G-Gallus?! You can dance!?” She squealed, eyes wide with shock.

“I’ve been practicing.” Was all he could say before stepping in time, the hippogriff overcoming her surprise and keeping pace. Gallus swung her out into a twirl- Silverstream smoothly following through back into his arms as they then double-stepped back and forth. Her beautiful purple eyes were damp as she looked back at him, seeming to be almost on the verge of tears.

“YOU CAN DANCE!” She yelled, thankfully ‘mostly’ drowned out by the music as Gallus swung her out again, not able to resist a genuine laugh. Energy and joy radiated from Silverstream as she matched every one of Gallus’ moves, every swingout, step, twirl, and even short hops.

Every time she ended up back in his arms, the hippogriff looked happier and happier. Gallus could feel her vibrating with energy, a smile never leaving her beak as she embraced the dance to the fullest. A soft barely-muffled squeak of delight was present on almost every twirl and dip, falling silent to a bright blush when ending back up in Gallus' arms.

A carefree laugh left her beak as he spun her out again, pulling Silverstream back to step in time with the music. Despite the whirlwind of other couples dancing or just swaying to the beat, all Gallus could focus on was the beautiful hippogriff holding his claws. Every graceful swing and flare of her wings had his heart burning. How she could seem so carefree yet graceful at the same time was a true mystery.

Gallus was vaguely aware of the two of them being in a circle of onlookers, but at that moment he couldn’t care less. Swinging Silverstream out for another twirl, he yanked her back to then step in time as a few ponies began to clap. The gryphon didn’t let up; Silverstream keeping perfect pace with more dips and twirls, their hooves and paws stepping inches from the other in time to the music. The brief moment Gallus caught Silver’s gaze, he could only smile at seeing the adoration in her eyes.

As the song ended and a new song began to play, the two swayed back and forth in a half-waltz dance until the beat picked up again.
“G-gallus, I-” Silver’s words cut off, her beak quivering as she looked back at him lovingly. The gryphon gave her cheek a brush with his claws, then holding her shoulder as the song began to pick up. There was so much emotion behind her affectionate gaze-

“Short break after this song? Rest our feet?” Gallus asked, hoping he was picking up on the correct cues.
A brief nod indicated he had been right indeed.

The next song was a slow waltz; Gallus smoothly leading Silverstream around the dance floor with the other couples. Her moves weren’t as energetic, but seemed more precise and genuine, if the gryphon had to pick a word.
I don’t know what’s on your mind Silver, but all I want is to be worthy of how you look at me.

The surprisingly poetic thought caused Gallus’ own eyes to water, and as the song ended he gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze.

“Shall we?” He asked, the two weaving off to the side. It was a simple matter for Gallus to follow Silverstream as she led them outside to the small grassy hills.

Optional: Appropriate music 2

Sitting down, Gallus looked over to Silverstream as she snuggled up next to him, taking a shaky breath. “Gallus. I-y-you….” Words seemed to catch in her through, prompting Gallus to shift to look at her. Taking a set of her claws in his, Gallus managed to catch Silverstream’s gaze.

“Silver, what’s up?” He asked gently.
A few of the barriers behind Silverstream’s emotions finally broke, and the hippogriff’s eyes ran with tears, a genuine smile on her beak.

“Y-you have no idea how m-much t-that meant to m-me.” She sniffed, her sides shaking slightly.
Gallus gently reached up to cup her cheek in his claws, scooting a bit closer.

“I guess I don’t, but I’m starting to get a general idea.” He whispered with a tender smile.

That gesture broke down Silver’s last emotional dams, the hippogriff leaning against Gallus’ chest to cry. The gryphon would have been concerned, but the nuzzling of his feathers was a fair sign that they weren’t sad tears. A few times Silverstream actually sobbed, then calming down after a few moments as hiccups took place of the tears.

Gallus caressed her head-feathers as Silverstream looked up at him, a few tears still shimmering in her eyes.
“Feel better?” He asked, prompting a rather embarrassed "Mmmmhmm.”

“You never told me that was something you wanted.” He asked, prompting a giggle-punctuated hiccup.

“S-says the pot to the kettle!” She chirped with a smile, nuzzling his feathers briefly.

“Ok, I guess we both haven’t shared some stuff. Plenty of stuff.” Gallus admitted, pulling back slightly to look into Silverstream’s eyes again. “But I’d really like to.” He said softly, prompting another sniffle.

“I’d l-like that too.” Silver replied, a final hiccup making her blush. “Gallus, when did you learn all that? How?” Her voice then got a bit quieter.
“Why?”

Gallus shifted to let Silverstream lean on his shoulder, shrugging his wings slightly. “When? The past few months, every day after school. The Element of Generosity isn’t just a nickname it turns out. So that takes care of when and how.” He mused, resting his head against Silver’s. “As to why? I just wanted to show you I care. I don’t know much about relationships, but I know that when you love someone, you should show that you care.”

The instant he felt Silverstream stiffen, Gallus' brain finally registered his own words.

Well. I never really knew when I’d say it, but-

Turning to meet her gaze, Gallus failed to swallow the lump in his throat as he gave her claws a squeeze.
“And I do love you Silverstream. I really do. It’s taken me a bit to be able to say it…” His words lodged in his throat, but the kiss Silverstream gave him made any thoughts melt away. Wrapped up in her arms, Gallus felt the hippogriff shake ever so slightly, rocking him back and forth.

“I love you too Gallus, I love you so much. I w-was afraid you w-wouldn’t e-ever-”

Gallus returned the hug, holding her close as a few of his own tears wet his feathers.
“I’ve loved you for a while, Silver. I just didn’t know how to say it, and wanted to be sure.”

“S-sure?” She asked, voice both curious and a bit cautious.

“I w-wanted to make sure it wasn’t a passing thing.” He explained, the gryphon not able to stem the tears that ran down his cheeks.
For the first time in my life. Someone actually…

“But I only cared for you more as time went on. More and more; Not less, never less.” He whispered, hearing another hiccup from the hippogriff.

“I n-never expected I-love-you’s to be so tearful.” Silverstream giggled, resting in his arms happily.

“But this is perfect. I’ve always wanted…” Her words broke off, prompting a slight squeeze from Gallus.

“Always?”

A slight nod answered his question, Gallus not pushing the question further. All he did was hug her closer and nuzzle his cheek.

I guess there’s more than a few things we haven’t shared about ourselves.
But I want to Silverstream, and I’m not going anywhere.

Gallus reached down and gently held the necklace around his neck, a pink feather, seashell, and stone hanging just below the bow-tie before looking up at her again. He opened his beak, but no words came out- Silverstream seeing the gesture and only smiling, wiping away some residual dampness on her cheeks.

“I still owe you as many dances as you want.” Gallus whispered, prompting Silver to giggle, the two standing up slowly.

“I’d like that, very, very much.” Silverstream replied, letting out a squeak as Gallus grabbed her in another brief hug.

“I love you Silverstream- I don’t know if I’ll ever get over saying that.” Gallus whispered, prompting a happy giggle.

“I love you too Gallus, and don’t think that’s a thought just for you. I’m kinda new to all this too!”

Once again, she tried to pout.
Emphasis on tried.

Her failed pouts are adorable.

There was a new depth to Silverstream’s gaze as they walked back to the dance, Gallus' heart still beating out of his chest. Her eyes held a different layer of emotion now-

Security? Care?
….Love.

The current song was almost over, and Gallus took a few deep breaths to try and make sure he didn’t start crying again. As a fast-paced swing tune began to make the speakers thump, Gallus held out a set of claws to Silverstream.

“Shall we?” He asked with a smile, spinning the hippogriff into his arms the moment she took his claws. Her characteristic squeal of joy was music to his ears as they danced, both their beaks split in wide, shameless smiles. The passing of new songs was only an indicator to shift dance styles, neither wanting to take a break. Silverstream’s bottomless energy quickly had returned, eagerly spinning and hopping as Gallus led them through each set of moves. The smile never left her beak, the hippogriff occasionally letting out a soft hum of affection when a slower song came on and she was able to rest her head on Gallus’ shoulder.

It was only after individuals began to filter out of the gymnasium that they realized the final song was playing, and the two were one of only a few couples still on the dance floor.
They both took a formal bow to each other, and promptly began to laugh, making their way to the exit.
“BEST. DANCE. EVER!”

Despite echoing off the gymnasium halls and making Gallus’ ears ring, the gryphon couldn’t help but laugh.
“Best ‘dances’ ever.” He added with a smirk, prompting Silverstream to giggle with a nudge to the shoulder.

"So many dances; my hooves and claws are gonna aaaaaaache. But so worth it.” She grinned, letting out a slight sigh as they reached the dormitory area.

“See you tomorrow?” She asked, ears perked up slightly as Gallus grasped at his heart with a wince.

“That hurts! Oh how you have wounded me. To even think I wouldn’t want to meet you for breakfast or lunch after such a night is such a-MMFF!” Silverstream was still all smiles as she broke the kiss, giving him a gentle nuzzle briefly.

“You can be such a sarcastic ham Gallus.” She then sighed, eyes becoming slightly dreamy as the gryphon rested a set of claws on her cheek. “I love it, which means you.” She mumbled, sighing as Gallus wrapped her up in a tender hug.

“Love you too Silver; goodnight.” He whispered, Silverstream happily trotting through the door with a wave.

“Goodnight Gallus!”

The gryphon didn’t miss the high-pitched happy ‘OHMYGOSHHESAIDHELOVESMEEEEEEEE’ that echoed through the hall as he made his way to the other dormitory.

I love someone, and someone loves me…

This really is home.

Author's Note

FLUFF HAS REACHED MAXIMUM LEVELS!
My brain was in a constant state of excited squealing during this bit, to be honest.

Loved writing this chapter; the pair solidifying another layer to their relationship.

Gallus' and Silverstream's adventures are only beginning, so stay tuned for the epilogue/link to the sequel! I'm glad so many people enjoyed this! :pinkiehappy:

Epilogue/The Adventure Continues

Peaceful theme music.
I love you forever- Two Steps From Hell

“I looooooooooove ice cream.”

“More than me? Oh the shame. To be chosen over a frozen dessert…”

A spoon was shaken grumpily in Gallus’ direction, the hippogriff sitting across from him glaring at the gryphon.
“Really Gallus? You’re going to ask me that? Reaaaaallly?” She asked with a sigh, taking a bite of the chocolate dessert. “I mean it’s getting close though.” Silverstream mused with a grin, prompting Gallus to groan and smack his head into a wooden table of Sugarcube Corner.

“Oh no. I’m rubbing off on you.” Gallus grumbled, prompting a happy titter from Silverstream.

“Or maaaaybe I just finally have someone to joke with!” She added, taking Gallus’ spoon and scooping him a blob of dessert. She slid the spoon along the table inches from his beak-

“Beep beep. Yummy delivery for the grumpy gryphon!” She whispered, laughing as Gallus snapped up the dessert before returning his face to the table.

“I’m not grumpy!” He mumbled, looking up with a barely-contained grin, eyes softening at seeing Silverstream just happily giggling as she dug into the large bowl of frozen milk. There was something on his mind though; but not the right time to mention it.

Finishing off the dessert, Silverstream hopped off the stool and waited for Gallus to follow her outside, the two walking down the Ponyville main road. A happy sigh caught the gryphon’s attention, namely because Silverstream leaned on his shoulder slightly.

“Hmm? Silver?”

“Nooooothing. Just remembering the dance.”

Oh.

Gallus was all smiles as they meandered to the outskirts of Ponyville, sitting down at the edge of a peaceful field. ilverstream promptly snuggled up close to him; a gesture that never failed to make Gallus’ heart throb. He still wasn’t sure how to process it; someone making an active effort to be close to him…

“You’re comfy.” Silverstream whispered, prompting Gallus to chuckle.

“Is that a fat joke? I mean I have gained some weight, thankfully. But not THAT much I’d-”

“Shuuuuuuush. Enjoying comfy shoulder.” Was the replying mumble, Gallus trying his hardest to not laugh.
Evidently it didn’t work, because a partially-peeved hippogriff was looking at him when the gryphon glanced over to her.
“Not as comfy when you’re trying to not laugh. Bounces my head all over.”

Now Gallus couldn’t help but let out a soft laugh, giving her cheek a gentle nuzzle with his own.
“Sorry Silver, it’s too funny though. I promise you’ll get some uninterrupted shoulder time today.”

Silverstream was quiet for a moment before finally whispering back. “So I can schedule an appointment?”

Gallus chuckled, giving her a hug before leaning against her gently.
“Nah. Walk in visits are fine.” He sighed, enjoying her touch for a few moments. Having her at his side brought a strange peace to the gryphon’s mind; a loving presence that calmed all other thoughts.

“Hey Silverstream?”

“Hmmm?”

“Is spring a good time to visit Mount Aris?”

Gallus felt the hippogriff stiffen at his side, Silverstream pulling back slightly to look at him curiously. “It’s beautiful year round, but yes?”

Grasping a set of her claws in his own, Gallus managed an awkwardly nervous smile. “Would-erm, your family be free around that time? I’d like to meet them.”

Tears instantly flooded Silverstream's eyes as she gave him a loving hug, nodding into Gallus’ shoulder. “I t-think they’ll be able to make time. Not sure about Queen Novo though.” She remarked, prompting Gallus’ ears to flatten.

“Oh. I forgot about her. The Queen of all the Hippogriffs and Seaponies. Meeting me. No biggie. How are the dungeons there? Probably nice? Can I request an above-water one? I mean it can’t be that bad, nice view from behind bars. I wonder MMF-”

Silverstream employed the sure-fire method to shut him up, giving the gryphon a kiss that blocked out any other thoughts. Pulling back ever so slightly, she gently brushed beaks with Gallus, a tender smile easing his fears.

“She won’t throw you into a dungeon you goof. She’ll probably just want to talk. Besiiiiides, she’s nice. But we’ll figure that out later. You really want to meet them though?” Silverstream asked, prompting Gallus to nod.

He reached up to cup the hippogriff’s cheek with his claws, a genuine and tender smile reaching his beak. “I love you Silverstream, and I know your family is a big part of your life. So yes, I really do want to meet them.”

The normally hyperactive hippogriff melted at his touch, a trembling smile on her beak as she nuzzled into his touch.
“I c-can’t wait.” She whispered, eyes closing briefly to enjoy the moment. With a sigh, she scooted back next to him and fluffed out her wings, trying her hardest to appear grumpy. “A nap with you as a pillow would be great. But then I’ll be awake all night.” She muttered, prompting Gallus to smile.

“Hmm. Well-OH! I almost forgot.”

The gryphon pulled out a small candy from the satchel around his neck, handing it over to Silverstream. “I know you like chocolate as much as I do, and Pinkie Pie just picked up these super rich chocolate bars. Sooooooo…”

Silver broke off half of the bar, popping it in her mouth and letting out a happy moan. “Oh my gosh that’s amaaaaaaaazing.” She mumbled, a blissful sigh leaving her beak.

Before she could snap out of her chocolate-induced stupor, Gallus yanked her close and gave Silverstream a passionate kiss that made the hippogriff squeak in surprise.

Breaking the gesture briefly, Gallus couldn’t help but chuckle, gently tapping her beak with a claw. “Chocolate kisses…not a bad idea.” He then gave a shocked Silverstream another deep kiss, nodding briefly. “Not a bad idea at all!”

Seeing the playful look in Silver’s eyes, he promptly ate the other half of the chocolate bar and trotted off a short distance.
“I guess we can go explore a bit more? Maybe-”
“GET BACK HERE AND LET ME KISS YOU!”

Gallus cackled as a pink arrow zipped after him, the gryphon dodging this way and that as the two danced across the field in a game of chocolate-kiss tag.

To be continued in: Prison of Ice with Silver Keys

Author's Note

Thank you all for the support for this fic; I'm glad so many individuals liked it! The fluffy adventures of these two are only beginning!

TO READERS: In the comments, please let me know if you'd like some more portions from Silverstream's view in the sequel!

Thank you all for the supportive comments, and I'll see you in their next adventure!
-RB

Chapter Five: Pukwudgies, Timberwolves, and Cockatrice’s oh my! Part 2

Gallus backed away cautiously as the three imposing Timberwolves stared him down, slowly starting to circle the young gryphon. Their bodies composed of dark wood held together with ethereal green magic, the creatures were clearly hungry for something.

Most likely him.

He needed a weapon. Desperately looking around, Gallus only spied sticks about as long as his forearm- hardly big enough to do any damage. Still backing up, Gallus briefly glanced back to see that he was only five tail-lengths from the clearing edge. He grabbed a small rock- sending it hurtling at the nearest wolf and causing it to back up ever so slightly.
That would have to do.

Turning tail and dashing back to the camp, Gallus made it without feeling any sharp teeth sink into his hindquarters, but barely. Skidded to a stop next to the fire, Gallus saw the wolves pausing just outside the fire’s light. Made of dry wood, the creatures had an inherent fear of the crackling flames. An increasing wind whipped the long-reaching branches over the meadow into a pre-storm frenzy; if they tried to fly for it, there'd be a good chance they'd hit a snag. The actual fall wouldn't be bad, but the grounded many-toothed occupants would certainly be.

Looking to his left, Gallus expected to see Silverstream bolting back as well- but his jaw dropped in amazement.

Staring down three other wolves, the young hippogriff had a rather large stick in her right claw as she reared on her hind legs. One of the wolves lunged at her, and with a rather fearsome yell Silverstream swung the weapon with both claws, shattering the wooden head of the Timberwolf with the blow.

Despite her limbs shaking, Silverstream swung again- this time taking off the front left leg of a second wolf as it dared to get too close. The other one circled slightly to cut her off from Gallus as he called out.

“Silver! I-hold on!” He called out, but even after picking up a flaming log from the fire, the three wolves stopped him from getting any closer to her. Clearly the predators wanted to separate them and pick them off.

Another angry cry sounded from behind the wolves, and Gallus saw Silverstream swing again, this time obliterating the flimsy front-half of the first attacker, it having hastily reformed and tried again.

“Will you all just GO. AWAY!” She screeched, another blow whacking off yet another limb of an attacker.

It was a fleeting thought, but one that Gallus would be hard pressed to forget. Seeing Silverstream fight off these wolves-
Covered in dirt, grime and sweat, Silver bared her beak at the three nearest wolves who promptly stepped back a few paces. Gone was the cowering Seapony hiding from an illusion in a distant cave, instead, a hippogriff warrior stared down the three wolves and readied another swing.

She’s gorgeous.

His adoring thoughts were cut short by the other three wolves padding closer, and the gryphon promptly chucked the flaming log.

“Silver! Heads up! Fire for you!”

I mean, it feels like my heart is on fire, but in this case I mean literally.

Picking up another flaming piece of wood, Gallus saw his original throw had been perfect, the log landing next to the hippogriff. The sight of fire caused her three wolves to back off even more. They clearly were having second thoughts.

Gallus looked down and saw there were only a few pieces remaining in the hastily built fire- not enough to throw many more.

Hmmm.

Keeping his eyes on the wolves, Gallus exchanged his current weapon for a smaller piece that was still aflame-

And that’s when the first wolf jumped at him. Time seemed to stretch, and for a moment Gallus saw the forest vanish, stone walls rising on either side of him.

Griffinstone.

The image of the Timberwolf was replaced by that of their more deadly cousin; the Ice Wolf. Held together with powerful blue magic and having bodies composed of solid ice, they were harder to shatter and send running. Barely out of the hatchling stage, Gallus had chosen a spot to shelter for the night rather poorly; on the outskirts of town. It was only the arrival of a passing gryphon that had send the ice wolf with its tail between its legs, shattered with a blow of a wooden staff.
There’s no rescuer this time though.

Gallus’ eyes narrowed, a surprising amount of raw anger building in his frame. No, there wasn’t a rescuer; but he wasn’t a helpless hatchling either. Not anymore. Letting out a screech, he rocketed his left fist towards the Timberwolf’s head, the set of claws holding on to the still flaming wood.

With an abrupt SNAP, the wolf’s head exploded in a shower of wood and embers, the creature scrambling back to the tree line with a high pitch keen.

Apparently they really didn’t like fire.

Gallus let out a growl as he took a few steps towards the two wolves. They backed up briefly, and then one tried to lunge once again. Swinging the ember-coated weapon, Gallus slammed the wood into the side of the creature head, sending the wolf off to the side in a flailing heap. As it got up, the wolf looked to the gryphon and then to Silverstream, starting to move towards the unsuspecting hippogriff from behind her.

The protective surge that flooded his frame was enough to cause Gallus’ heart to skip a few beats. The gryphon’s eyes narrowed as another scene sprang to his memory.

An ice wolf stalking a gryphon hatchling, and all he had was a piece of jagged metal.

A primal surge of energy enveloped Gallus as he snatched a rock from the fire ring, promptly launching himself towards the offending wolf. Swinging the stone down with a brutal blow, he sent the weapon slamming into the wolf’s shoulder, splintering the wood into splinters.

With a high pitched yelp, the Timberwolf scrambled out from under Gallus, dashing into the woods as it slowly re-formed. With its partner now beating a hasty retreat, the lone Timberwolf looked to Gallus, and then promptly trotted off. The other three Timberwolves that had been harassing Silverstream were nowhere to be seen, and the hippogriff happily bounded over to Gallus to wrap him up in a hug.

“YOU’RE OK!” She squealed, burying her head in his neck feathers affectionately.

“I was worried about you too Silver.” Gallus admitted, hugging her back. As Silverstream let out a happy hum, the gryphon caught sight of one of his clawed hands as the strange energy that had clouded his vision began to fade. His claws were shaking.

That’s…odd.

Silverstream let him go with a wide grin, picking up a large stick at her side. “I like this branch, glad I found it when I did! Sticks are awesome!” She remarked happily, prompting Gallus to grin.

“You were amazing! I’ve never seen someone hold their own like that against THREE wolves! Like, WHOA!” Gallus’ wings flared out in enthusiasm, prompting Silverstream to blush and trace the ground with a claw.

“Where did you learn to do that?” He asked, stocking the fire back up with some nearby smaller sticks.

“Well, being royalty and all that, we had to take a basic combat course, and have private lessons in case we got kidnapped or something.” Silver explained, still a bit pinker than normal at Gallus’ exclamation.

A roll of thunder echoed across the darkening sky, prompting Gallus to gesture to the edge of the clearing
“We should probably get some dry wood still- together this time?” He suggested as they both walked to gather what large pieces they could find. They had barely gotten a small pile underneath the tent when large raindrops began to fall, prompting a quick huddle inside. They had managed to prop both tents halfway open, two single tents becoming a semi-normal sized one.

Appropriate music (click)

“Well, at least we have food and water.” Gallus quipped, fishing out their supplies and looking at the shredded sleeping bags.
“It’ll barely make a single decent blanket I think. Ah well.”

Silverstream let out a happy giggle around a mouthful of pastry-like food, scooting closer to lean against the gryphon.
“Not too bad I think. That was TOTALLY awesome when you punched that Timberwolf by the way! Like, it was a tiny bit scary, but WHOA!” The hippogriff exclaimed, her own wings now flaring as she spoke. Gallus couldn’t help but let out a sheepish chuckle, shrugging his shoulders.

“Thanks, I’m just glad it worked though. You were incredible though. And wow, totally beautiful too-”
The gryphon’s eyes widened as his mouth decided to move faster than his brain, cheeks starting to tinge purple.

“…Really?” Silverstream’s uncharacteristically soft and gentle whisper reached his ears.

“I wouldn’t have said it if I didn’t mean it.” Gallus replied, looking over to see Silverstream’s eyes shimmering with affection.

“N-no guy has ever said that about me. Not like that.” She whispered, looking to the ground briefly before back to Gallus.

“What do you mean ‘like that?’ He asked, both curious and rather stunned nobody had said such a thing.

Silverstream let out a slight laugh, gesturing to her dirt-covered feathers and fur. “It’s always been nobles at gatherings and such. A passing thing only meant to be polite or gain favor. Never like it’s meant seriously, always rehearsed and such. But right now, I mean, I’m covered in dirt and leaves! H-how can I be-?”

Gallus let out a sight and promptly reached over to rest a palm against Silver’s cheek, to which the hippogriff let out a shaky breath. “Dirt and leaves don’t change it at all. And if you doubt that, I’ll be sure to remind you.” Gallus replied, a gentle smile on his face. “I think they add to it actually. Regally gorgeous without the leaves, and a warrior princess with the dirt addition.”

Now the gryphon could feel Silver’s cheeks heating up against his palm- not that he minded. Not a single word he said had been untruthful in the slightest. “Not quite a princess b-but, thank you Gallus.” She whispered, eyes still damp as he rubbed her cheek with a talon.

“Anytime. We probably should get everything set for tonight though.” He mused, still grinning at seeing the putty-like hippogriff leaning into his claws.

“Mmmmm. Probably.”

Gallus then blushed as he realized how exactly they’d be staying warm. Not that he was about to complain. But it was a new thing A very, very new thing. A strange knot formed in the gryphon’s chest, and he did his best to not let it show as he placed his claws on the tent floor.

“Gallus?”

Of course he failed. Silver always seemed to know…

“Just, thoughts. Past things.” His wings dropped slightly as Silver scooted next to him.

“I know there’s a ton you haven’t shared, and that’s ok.” She whispered, reaching over to give his claws a squeeze. “You’ve been there for me, so whenever you want to tell me, I’ll be listening.” Seeing Silver’s hopeful gaze prompted the knot in Gallus’ chest to tighten further, and all he could do was return the gesture by squeezing her claws.

“T-thanks Silver.” He whispered, the warm knot in his chest slowly moving upwards towards his eyes.

Nobody was ever there for me. Not until my friends.
Not until you.

Silverstream must have noticed the gryphon’s eye getting damp with burning tears, because she sat up and looked at him curiously.

“Gallus? You ok?” She asked softly.

His only response was to wrap his arms around her in a genuine hug, taking a shaky breath. She knew of course; but it was so much harder to admit to himself the simple fact. Underneath the sarcasm, the snarkiness, and standoffish demeanor…
All I’ve wanted is this.

“I could never realize how much I wanted something until I actually had it.” Gallus whispered, tightening his hug as Silverstream returned the gesture. It was a logical progression, but in terms of feelings, a very significant realization.

When Gallus pulled back slightly to rest a set of claws on Silverstream’s cheek, her captivating purple eyes looking back at him with genuine warmth.

As he felt her move slightly in his touch, Gallus had a frantic back and forth take place in his mind. The gryphon knew what he wanted to do, something that had been on his mind for a good month.
And yet there was the fear- the ‘what if…’

After all she’s done for you, you really think she wouldn’t-?

Shutting down the doubts in his mind as best he could, Gallus leaned forward and pulled Silverstream in for a kiss.
Gryphon kissing was a tricky thing to say the least. While they had semi-flexible beaks, a kiss with such things was an all or nothing affair. If one party didn’t want such a gesture, all they had to do was close their beak as a painful reminder to the other, or turn away.

The hippogriff’s body stiffened in surprise as their beaks met, her eyes widening briefly-
And then yanked Gallus closer to return the kiss with such fierceness that the gryphon thought his ribs would break from the pounding of his heart.

Warmth spread from the top of his head to the tip of his tail, returning the loving gesture as best as he knew how. The happy shiver that ran through Silverstream’s body as they hugged each other close brought him no small amount of joy, the two finally separating to lock gazes briefly.

“I-I, um…” Any intelligent thoughts completely flatlined in Gallus’ mind, but thankfully Silverstream simply giggled and gave him another hug.

“Y’know, if you don’t know what to saaaaay, you can always just do that again-MMMF!”

To his credit, the cheeky gryphon couldn’t pass up that opportunity. The fact the additional kiss made Silverstream blush and fluff out slightly was just an added bonus.

“I think I get why ponies and such do this often.” Gallus remarked, pulling away briefly to smile at his special somegriff.

“Mmmmm.” Silverstream’s gaze looked like the affectionate stupor she had whenever he brushed against her cheek, except the genuine smile on her face sent warmth flooding through Gallus’ frame.

Third time’s the charm.

Looking into Silverstream’s eyes, Gallus pulled her close into another fiery kiss, ending by pressing his cheek against hers. Words rose in his throat- but stopped just short of his beak.
I’ll tell her. But not now. Not yet.

The gryphon simply enjoyed Silverstream’s touch for a good minute, ever minute movement she made to snuggle up closer setting his heart on fire. To have someone want that…

Silverstream pulled back slightly, wiping away the few tears that traced their way down Gallus’ cheek. She had never mentioned it around the others, nor given any indication she found it odd. If anything, the loving look in her eyes got even more intense at such moments, an unspoken understanding at the emotions that tugged at his heart and spilled from the gryphon’s eyes.

As if words would spoil the moment, the pair dragged the remains of the sleeping bags over and lay down next to each other. Huddling close, the two fell asleep leaning on the other’s shoulder, the tattered remains of the sleeping bags draped over their backs.

Gallus yawned, snuggling further under the warm blanket.
Best blanket ever. It’s heavy, warm-what is that sleeping bag made of? And why is there a rhythmic-

The gryphon’s eyes snapped open as he realized exactly what the blanket composed of, or rather, who. Despite the warm lump in his throat, he was not going to tear up just because of-

Ugh.

And to think, Gallus had been so naïve in accepting that after the years of pain, he had no more tears to cry. How wrong he had been.

They never left, just froze. And Silverstream…

Her hugs were certainly warm enough to thaw ice. Literally or figuratively apparently.

Silverstream let out a yawn, burrowing into Gallus’ back neck fur with a mumble before lifting her head. "Bwa? Huh. Morning….”

“Morning. I guess my blanket can talk after all.” Gallus chuckled from under her, prompting a squeak.

“I-I-”

“Silver. I’m not complaining at all.”

She let out a frustrated MMMF into his shoulder, then getting up and stretching. “Well not my fault you’re so cozy. I could have stayed there alllllllll morning!” She chirped happily, prompting Gallus to sigh with a rather goofy grin on his face.

“Saaaaame. We should try to find the others though.”

“Yea, we should-WAIT WHAT?”

Gallus was already packing up the shredded sleeping bags and undoing the other tent pegs, looking back at Silver with a smile.
“What are you waiting for?”

His cheeky comment prompted a frustrated sigh- or at least the attempt at such. The kiss on his cheek let the gryphon know Silverstream had definitely heard that remark, and most certainly approved.

After breaking down their camp and eating a quick breakfast, the two were back trotting on the dirt path, hopefully towards their friends. Silverstream was all smiles as she hopped along at his side, something that almost always pulled Gallus’ thoughts away from the darker places in his mind.

Gallus then froze as a soft clucking reached his ears.

You have got to be kidding me.

Sure enough, a composite creature waddled out in front of them, complete with the head of a chicken and the lower half and wings of a reptile. He heard Silver gasp, prompting the Cockatrice to look directly at them. It was a choice he made without even thinking, limbs moving swiftly before they froze completely. Spreading his wings, the gryphon glared at the offending creature, blocking Silver’s face from its view.

Surprisingly, being turned to stone didn’t feel so bad. It was like being in a blizzard, getting colder and colder. It started at the tips of his claws, and quickly moved up his legs. The powerful magic had begun to creep up his chest when a strange sound drew Gallus’ attention.

THUNK

Apparently the sound of a stone hitting the head of a chicken produces a rather hollow clunking noise, because the Cockatrice stumbled around instantly, falling over a few times at the impact. After a few confused clucks, it wobbled away into the forest, Silverstream already primed for another throw. The magic faded from Gallus’ body, and he almost collapsed as feeling returned to his frame.

“Whew. Thanks Silver.” He sighed in relief, flexing his claws. “Now, back to finding our friends?” His words faded as the gryphon saw Silverstream staring at him. “What?”

“You stood in front of me, to block its magic.” Silverstream stated, a tumult of emotions swirling behind her eyes.

“Well yeah? Of course I did.” Gallus replied, shrugging his wings. Why wouldn’t he?

There was a flash of something deeper behind Silver’s purple eyes, something that took Gallus’ breath away. What it was, he wasn’t sure, but it had enough power to make her eyes damp for the briefest of moments.

“T-thank you.” She whispered, giving him a nuzzle on the cheek before continuing onwards.

What was that about? Perhaps I’ll find out eventually, but now, we need to find everyone.

After walking for another few minutes in silence, Gallus paused. “Did I hear Smolder laugh evilly?”

On taking a leftmost path, the gryphon saw a familiar group of individuals huddled around a morning fire.

On seeing the pair stumble into the campground, the four individuals jumped to their feet.
“Whoa! We thought you guys went home or something. You were out here all night?!” Sandbar exclaimed as Smolder got a rather devious look on her face.

“Yona just glad all friends are here now! Still a day or two of camping fun!” The yak proclaimed happily.

“Uh huh. You sure you two didn’t sneak off on purpose?” Smolder asked sarcastically, prompting Gallus to roll his eyes. He had been expecting that remark of course.

“Nah. We just got lost. It was pretty great actually. Explored, made a fire, but it was still FREEZING! Had to sleep together to say warm!”

Gallus’ eyes widened at Silverstream’s words, and he resisted the urge to smack his face into the nearest tree. Dragging a set of claws down the side of his face in exasperation, Gallus looked at the four shocked faces staring at Silver and himself.
And there goes my pride. Phrasing, Silver.

“Our sleeping bags got shredded and it was rather cold.” Gallus explained with a deadpanned expression.

His words prompted a few different exclamations, the looks changing from shock to affirmation.
“Oh, that’s smart! It’s a good survival strategy!” Ocellus exclaimed, Yona nodding as well.

“Is what Yaks do if caught in blizzard! Huddle together in warm bundle. Then can outlast snow!” She proclaimed.

Smolder simply raised an eyebrow and sighed. She certainly seemed rather put out from being denied the plethora of jokes that had been available, mainly due the supportive response.

“Well glad you didn’t freeze at least.” She muttered.

Then hopping forward to sit on one of the log benches, Silverstream stretched her wings briefly.
“It was honestly ok, other than the Pukwudgies, Timberwolves and Cockatrice’s!”

Ocellus was the first to speak, with a soft “Oh my…”

The other three then chimed in as one voice;
“THE WHAT?!”

Author's Note

FLUFF HAS REACHED CRITICAL LEVELS.
....I see no problem with this.
Hinting at a few deeper things in this chapter; already have a planned sequel I am ITCHING to write. But there's two, maybe three more chapters here first!

Feedback appreciated as always!