Chapters Gallus' Rise To Power- A Musical
Act I: A Spark of Defiance
. . . . . . . .Curtain Rise!
Act I: A Spark of Defiance
Scene i: Poison (Thanks For Nothing)
When Gallus left the building after the rather tumultuous Parent Teacher Conference with Trixie, he was still frowning. The only speck of hope he had at the moment was at the very least he wouldn't be seeing Grampa Gruff for a while.
"Hey, boy!"
Gallus' heart sank even further at the sound of the voice. It seemed as if Grampa Gruff hadn't left the school just yet.
As the old griffon approached the young griffon, he scowled and said, "I knew it was a mistake to send you to this filthy pony school. How dare that hag speak to me that way! Me! The proudest griffon in Griffonstone, and rightfully so! All of it's majesty, it's history, it's glory! I am the sole bearer of it's glory days! That's why I am the closest thing, and only thing , we have to a leader! And that worthless equine dare. . ."
As Gallus stared at the wicked old griffon, Grampa Gruff's voice began to grow fainter and fainter as thoughts began to rearrange themselves in his mind. It suddenly occurred to Gallus what exactly had happened a few moments ago. Trixie had actually stood up for him and told the old griffon off. This thought led to another realization for the young griffon. He had put up with Gruff's foul treatment of him for quite a while, but merely accepted it because he felt he had no choice. But right now, after everything he had seen and learned, he realized that weather he had a choice or not, Gruff was wrong. Dead wrong.
So, right now, after the stressful and depressing experience from earlier, combined with Gruff's angry, insulting rant against the Trixie, the school, his friends, and Equestria; Gallus was steadily heating up. So, it wasn't too long before something sparked within him.
"SHUT-UP!"
Grampa Gruff did shut up, but it was from utter shock at what the younger griffon had just shouted at him. Gruff was so shocked that both his good eye and bad eye moved to look at the blue griffon.
"What did you say to me?" Gruff said, barley holding back his boiling rage.
Gallus stood firmly before the older griffon, breathing heavily after his shout. Then he took a deep breath, and looked Gruff in the eye as he responded.
I never wanted to play make believe, I tried to stay within reality. And from a real young age, I learned to cope with pain, I never was the same.
I didn't want that very much from you, I just wanted to matter to you. I guess I asked too much, Or wasn't worth enough,
Gallus suddenly poked Gruff in the chest with his talon.
But I kept faith because You're supposed to love and protect me.
Gallus sighed and turned away.
Sorry that I didn't turn out the way that you wanted, but I just wanted to be okay.
Gallus suddenly turned back to Gruff quickly and glared at him bitterly.
You're suppose to love and accept me! Instead, I waited wasting so much time, and with you I really had a lousy life You're just like a nightmare from my past that somehow came to life.
Gallus hung his head and closed his eyes tightly, trying his best to hold back his tears.
I played my part, you crushed my heart, believed it all would work out without a shred of doubt. But in your eyes, I couldn't fly, why Wasn't I good enough? Guess I just don't mean much, Is it too late, to quit this game?
Gallus flapped his wings and hovered a few feet into the air. A few tears dripped down his face as he flailed his arms as he shouted at Grampa Gruff.
Fill me with poison - make me numb! You don't care if my heart stops! Feed me your garbage, it won't work! That's all you're really good for!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Gallus landed hard on the ground and panted heavily. He sat down on his haunches and covered his face with his talons.
"Are you done?" Grampa Gruff said irately, sounding more annoyed than angry.
Gallus uncovered his face and stared at Grampa Gruff in shock for a moment, then he gritted his teeth angrily before continuing.
Should I apologize for giving up? Should I be sorry that I've had enough? Of broken promises, excessive harsh judgements, and subtle rejections.
Gallus pointed an accusing claw at Grampa Gruff's bad eye.
Are you aware of what you've done to me? Or are you so just blind that you can't see - the scars that you've left here, mutating into fear, of creatures getting near. Why didn't you love and accept me?
Gallus got up and walked off again, rolling his eyes in disbelief at the aging griffon.
Sorry that I didn't turn out the way that you wanted, I guess that's why you didn't stay.
Why couldn't you love and protect me? Instead, I waited wasting so much time, and with you I really had a lousy life You're just like a nightmare from my past that somehow came to life.
Gallus paused and spoke bitterly with a fierce undertone.
You had a chance, I took it back. Even Trixie could see - That you can't stop hurting me? Wish I were strong, enough to move. . . on, But the ache grows and grows, Even if you just don't know, So ... you've got to go!
Gallus slowly turned his head to glare sideways at Grampa Gruff, his pupil shrinking to focus on the old griffon.
Swallow your poison, just one gulp, I want you to drink it all. Have just a taste of what you serve, this is how bad your words hurt.
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Thanks for nothing! Thanks for nothing!
Grampa Gruff rolled his good eye and said, "These ponies have made you so soft and sensitive-."
Gallus jumped over to Gruff and got up in his face.
I'm NOT too sensitive, And I'm NOT incompetent. You failed the job that you were meant to have in my life,
No, I'm NOT incompetent. No, I'm NOT too sensitive. And if you really cared then you'd just say you're sorry! The saddest part is that I have to sing this lame song.
Gallus' rage shimmered down a bit, and he sighed and backed off a bit as he spoke sadly to his guardian.
I wish, that things had been different. Now I can't just leave it all behind. If I could heal the stuff you did, Maybe we both could start again. But now I can't, your heart is black, And so then... Can't let you in, this is the end.
Gallus placed a talon over his chest.
Fill me with poison - make me numb You don't care if my heart stops Feed me your garbage, it won't work That's all you're really good for
Gallus then poked Gruff in his chest.
Swallow your poison, just one gulp, I want you to drink it all. Have just a taste of what you serve, this is how bad your words hurt.
Thanks for nothing Thanks for nothing
Thanks for nothing Thanks for nothing
Thanks for nothing Thanks for nothing
Thanks for nothing Thanks for nothing
Scene ii: Take It Back
Grampa Gruff seemed relatively calm after Gallus' words. The old griffon let out a wheezing breath he had been holding, then he put on a fake looking smile as he addressed his young charge.
You say. . . The worth of my care's not adequate for you today You cry. . . And you whine at me because of that pony who clearly was high
Gruff then placed a talon under Gallus' chin, much to the younger griffon's discomfort.
Why so sad? Remember we made an arrangement when I let you stay Now you're making me mad Remember, despite our estrangement, I'm not bad
Gallus felt Gruff's talons gently scratch his chin as he old griffon's voice became tenser.
Take it back, soon you'll see You'll remember you belong to me Take it back, time will tell You'll remember that I fed you well Oceans rise, Griffonstone falls We have seen each other through it all And when push comes to shove I will pull your ear until it bleeds to remind you of my 'love'
Grampa Gruff chuckled a bit, shaking his head in amusement as Gallus looked at him with utter loathing. Gruff eventually got over his laughing, and he continued as he leaned over towards Gallus, fixing his good eye on him.
You say my love is lacking and you can't go on. . . You'll be the one complaining when I am gone. . .
Grampa Gruff then stomped down as hard as he could on Gallus' right talon. Gallus would've cried out in pain, but Gruff reached out and held Gallus' beak closed.
And no! Don't change the subject! For you're my best dependent My good submissive dependent My loyal, weak dependent Forever. . . and ever. . . and ever and ever and ever...
Grampa Gruff stepped off of Gallus' talon, and the blue griffon huffed and puffed as he lifted the aching talon. Grampa Gruff either didn't notice or didn't care as he continued to lecture Gallus.
Take it back, just no more You don't really want to start a war You are mine, you owe me praise You are mine until my dying days There is pain, when I'm mad So don't throw away this thing we have For when push comes to shove I will pull you from this Friendship School to remind you of my 'love'
Grampa Gruff chuckled again, and when he saw the horrified look on Gallus' face that his threat had created, he laughed ever harder. Gallus only hung his head sadly as Grampa Gruff continued to laugh victoriously. The wicked, malice filled cackle echoed in Gallus' brain, and already he was forming an adequate apology to satisfy his guardian.
Curtain!
Author's Note
This Act's featured songs were:Link (This link is to the clean/censored version. I don't want to get in trouble!)Link
On the Song List so far (and in no particular order):Hamilton Hamilton Chicago (Glee cover)Something Broke by tarbyrocksScrooge- 1970 The Great Mouse Detective The Lion Guard Hamilton Hamilton
Please feel free to suggest any other songs that you believe could be used in this plot line I'm creating. Like before, I'll give credit to anyone who suggests a song! Thank you and please follow this story!
Gallus' Rise To Power- A Musical
. . . . . . Curtain Rise!
Act II: Preparations
Scene i: I Have a Plan
While the events following Gallus' confrontation with his vile guardian served as a fine distraction from it, they couldn't make it go away completely. And so, Gallus found himself lying awake in his dorm room. There was a mixture of emotions at a rolling boil within the blue griffon. Anger at Grampa Gruff, frustration at the situation he was in, disgust at how unfair his life was, sadness at the fact that he had no family, and fear at the thought that the old griffon could pull him from the school at any time.
Gallus rolled over on top of his bed and dug his talons into the sheets as he thought of that last one. It really bothered him that the old griffon really could tear him away from his new friends and new life at any time. Grampa Gruff was Gallus' legal guardian, so there would be nothing he or anycreature else could do about it. And it was those thoughts that made Gallus hate the vile old griffon more than ever. Quite frankly, Gallus wanted him gone.
Gallus' angry thoughts surrounding Grampa Gruff would have continued for nearly the whole night if they hadn't been interrupted by the sensation of touch on Gallus' shoulder.
Freaked out by this, Gallus froze solid, his eyes wide as he dared not even breathe. However, he knew that he simply couldn't remain still like this while somecreature was standing over him. So, forcing himself to be brave, Gallus took a deep breathe and rolled over to see who was in the room with him.
It was a blueish black griffon with brilliant amber eyes, wearing a golden sash and a crown.
". . . Uh?" Gallus said as he gaped at the griffon standing before him.
The newcomer smiled at Gallus and said, "Don't you know me?"
". . . King. . .?" Gallus said slowly.
"Guto," he replied, and he spread his wings wide and said, "I am. . . King Guto. . . The last of the kings of Griffonstone."
Gallus blinked owlishly at Guto, and he said dumbly, "Uhh. . ."
Guto raised a talon and said, "And no, I am not a dream. I am far more than a dream. I've been watching my former kingdom for a while, and it seems we have a mutual foe."
Gallus was taken aback by this, and he said, "Wait. . . are you talking about Grampa Gruff?"
Guto snorted and said, "Who else. He is the source of so many of our problems. He's tormented you, and held Griffonstone back so much."
"Wait, wait, what do you mean he held Griffonstone back?" Gallus asked curiously.
"The griffons can't go on like they've been going," Guto explained bitterly, "Greedy, bitter, angry at each other. While Equestria and the other races thrive, Griffonstone is still in the gutter." Guto's face contorted with rage, and he continued, "All because of that old fool touting the old ways of valuing wealth and spitting venom at every other griffon. Hating other races, treating our young like garbage! It disgusts me how that idiot is dooming our race!"
As Guto panted hard to catch his breath, Gallus sat up on the side of his bed and said, "Woah. You're kinda saying what I'm thinking."
Guto smiled with approval and said, "Gallus, you've been well educated in this School of Friendship. You have the skills needed to. . . improve upon griffon culture, unlike that old fool."
Gallus shrugged and said, "Well, yeah. Princess Twilight and the other professors know their stuff. But it's not like there's anything I can do to magically fix Griffonstone."
Guto raised a claw and wagged it at Gallus, and he said, "Ohh, but that's not what I'm saying you will do. It won't happen overnight, but you do have the potential to fix things. We just need to . . . remove Grampa Gruff, and replace him with you."
Gallus blinked, and he replied, "Well, that sounds easier said than done. Get all the griffons to listen to a nobody like me instead of Grampa Gruff. Like that will ever happen."
"It will happen, Gallus," Guto said with certainty, a look of pleasure on his face, "You see, I have plans for you, Gallus. Big plans, indeed."
Gallus' interest was perked as Guto laughed. Then the ex-king of Griffonstone nodded his head and explained.
They thought the kings were no more But very soon they'll see You rise like a phoenix from the ashes So triumphantly
I feared the worst for my homeland Oh, how long it's been A second opportunity Let a golden age begin
Guto stood tall and nodded confidently to Gallus.
For I have a plan
"Oh do you, now?" Gallus asked.
Yes, I have a plan
"I wanna know how," Gallus said, looking interested.
Follow my lead, that's all you need Yes, I have a plan
Guto approached Gallus, smiling as he outlined his plan.
You'll discredit Grampa Gruff before all Griffonstone You'll endear every griffon to your lead
And once Gruff's influence is diminished You'll snuff out his life light, You will cleanse his blight!
Griffonstone's poverty and pain Will never return again
Guto reared up onto his hind legs and flared his wings grandly, his eyes shining with passion and power.
For I have a plan!
"Yeah, you sure do. . ." Gallus said in awe.
Yes, I have a plan!
"That's what I'll do!" Gallus said as his confidence grew.
Follow my lead, that's all you need I have a plan!
Yes, I have a plan!
"I love that scheme!" Gallus said as he nodded his head excitedly.
I have a plan!
"It'll work like a dream!"
Follow my lead, that's all you need! Yes. . . I have a plan!
Gallus was utterly thrilled as Guto laughed grandly.
Scene ii: Cheer Up Gallus
Starlight Glimmer was in the Guidance Counselor's office when there was a knock at the door.
"Come in," she said, and in came Gallus, who looked a bit preoccupied as he approached the unicorn.
"Miss Glimmer," he began, then he took a moment to gather his thoughts, and continued, "I've got a question. Well, not really a question, I was really just wondering."
Starlight smiled welcomingly and said, "No problem, Gallus. What would you like to know?"
"Can you maybe, like, not tell anycreature about what I'm gonna ask you?" Gallus asked while giving Starlight a hopeful look.
This gave Starlight pause, and she said, "Gallus, you have my word. Anything you discuss with a Guidance Counselor will be kept in full confidentiality if that's what you want."
Gallus nodded, and he said, "Good. So, I wanna know if, say, Grampa Gruff wasn't, or couldn't be my guardian anymore, what exactly would happen to me?"
Starlight let out a sad, sympathetic sigh. "Gallus, I know what happened during that meeting Grampa Gruff had with Trixie was. . . difficult for you-."
"Look, I'm fine. Really," Gallus said quickly, "I just wanna know. It's been bugging me, okay?"
Starlight studied Gallus' face for a bit, then she said slowly, "Well, I really don't think you need to worry about this happening, but if it did, I suppose Twilight could help arrange a new guardian for you. I can already think of two griffons who'd be willing."
Gallus was surprised to hear this, and he asked, "Seriously? Who?"
Starlight averted her eyes nervously and said, "Oh, well, I probably shouldn't be talking like this."
Gallus gave Starlight an annoyed look and said, "Seriously? You get me curious and you leave me hanging. Not cool."
Immediately feeling bad about this, Starlight relented and said, "Okay, don't spread this around, but I thinking Gabby and Gilda."
"Gilda?" Gallus echoed, "I mean, sure, Gabby sounds right, but Gilda? Seriously?"
Starlight smiled and said, "You might be surprised. Gilda is a good creature, and she has a much bigger heart than she lets on."
"If you say so," Gallus said, then he smirked and said, "Heh. Wouldn't mind it. Gabby's nice and fun, but Gilda's a little more. . . chill."
Starlight chuckled and said, "Yeah. I know what you mean."
Gallus nodded back and said, "Well, thank you Miss Starlight. See you later, I guess."
As the blue griffon turned to leave, Starlight spoke up, "Gallus, wait. Just remember, you don't need to worry about things. You've got me, Twilight, and the other professors and your side. Not to mention your friends, who I'm sure would do anything for you."
Gallus paused for a moment, then he nodded his head slowly and said, "Yeah. They would." And with that, Gallus left the room.
Starlight watched Gallus close the door, and she sighed and spoke softly to herself.
You get blue like everyone But your five dear friends Can make your troubles go away Blow away, there they go...
Starlight then turned to her desk and used her magic to open a drawer a pull out a newspaper clipping.
Cheer up, Gallus Give me a smile What happened to the smile I used to know
The clipping showed a picture taken of the six students after they had defeated Cozy Glow. Starlight focused on Gallus in the picture.
Don't you know your grin can sure bring Griffonstone sunshine; Let that sunshine show...
Come on, Gallus No need to frown Deep down you know the world still has joy
Starlight put the newspaper clipping down and walked over to the window.
When the days get heavy Never pitter patter Up and at'em boy
Starlight spotted Gallus out through the window, and she smiled encouragingly at him.
Some day, sweet as a song Gallus' lucky day will come along Till that day You've got to stay in strong Gallus Up on top is right where you belong
Starlight then used her magic to bring a photo of the entire student body to her. Her eyes quickly fell upon the blue griffon in the picture.
Look up, Gallus You'll see a star Just follow it and keep your dreams in view
Pretty soon the sky is going to clear up Gallus, Cheer up Gallus, do
Starlight sighed as she leaned on the windowsill and rested her cheeks in her forehooves.
Cheer up Gallus Just be glad you're. . . You
Scene iii: Be Prepared
Within the Castle of the Two Sisters, the School of Friendship's six star students were gathered.
"Not sure why we all have to come here," Smolder remarked as she glanced around the castle's throne room.
"I already told you guys," Gallus said as he turned to look at his friends, "No creature else can know about this!"
Ocellus looked quite confused as she said, "We could've just talked in the Treehouse of Harmony."
Gallus shook his head and said, "Nah. I mean, I don't think so. I just wouldn't feel comfortable talking about it there."
"About what!?" Silverstream said eagerly, her talons clasped tightly as she bounced on her hind paws. She was smiling eagerly as she said, "Come on! I need to know! Tell me!"
Gallus stepped ahead of the group and began pacing back and forth. "I'm gonna give it to you guys straight: Grampa Gruff has got to go."
The entire group slightly bristled at this, all of them filled with disgust at the thought of the bitter old griffon. Word had spread about the confrontation between Trixie and Grampa Gruff, as well as his hurtful words.
"Yona agrees! Grouchy griffon is no good at all!" the yak said with an indignant frown.
Sandbar appeared unsure, and he asked, "Uh, what do you mean he's got to go. I mean, sure, I don't blame you for wanting to be rid of him; but why now?"
"Because it finally hit me," Gallus explained, "Grampa Gruff hasn't just hurt me, he's been hurting Griffonstone."
"Really? But how?" Silverstream asked innocently, "I mean, he's just one griffon."
Gallus stopped pacing and shrugged. "All the adult griffons kinda respect him," he admitted, "And since Girffonstone hasn't had a king for, like, a long time, he's the best we got. And he knows a lot about griffon history, so he's pretty much the leader."
Silverstream made a face and said "Sounds like a lousy leader."
"You're telling me," Gallus remarked, "And with him been the very biggest, greediest, jerk that no griff ever was, Griffonstone can't get any better as long as he's in charge. Griffonstone needs a griffon that understands friendship, but doesn't think Griffons have to go all nice and sweet and pony-like, no offense, Sandbar."
Sandbar smiled and nodded.
"So," Smolder said, "We talking about Gilda here?"
"No. Me," Gallus said as he pointed to himself.
When everycreature stared at him, Gallus huffed and said, "What? I'm enrolled in The Princess of Friendship's School of Friendship ! I'm pretty sure that makes me the best griffon for the job."
Silverstream's eyes lit up, and she said, "Hey! He's got a point!"
Smolder blew smoke through her nose and said, "Well, sure, I guess. But what does that have to do with us? Are we all gonna form a secret group to get rid of Grampa Gruff?"
Gallus smiled and gave Smolder a thumbs up. "Exactly," Gallus said.
Smolder and the others looked at Gallus in surprise as the Griffon continued to smile and pace back and forth in front of them as he addressed them all.
Old Gruff is now yesterday's message A clapped-out, distracted regime Whose failings undoubtedly presage The need for a different dream
Gallus then started to pace around his friends, addressing them one by one.
I tell you, the times are a- changelingSo let's all stop dragon our feet We must pony-up and stop yakking Let's get a griff and plot out his defeat
As his friends all looked on with interest, Gallus walked over to the old, restored throne.
So prepare for a chance of a lifetime Be prepared for sensational news A shining new era Is tiptoeing nearer
"And where do we feature?" Smolder asked.
"Listen and I'll teach ya," Gallus replied before continuing.
I know it sounds sordid But you'll be rewarded When at last I am given my dues Yes, Grampa Gruff better beware Be prepared!
Ocellus looked at Gallus thoughtfully, and she asked, "Be prepared? For what?"
"For Grampa Gruff to pay for everything he's done," Gallus said bitterly, "He encouraged every griffon to be greedy and nasty."
Gallus' friends gasped.
"So that means it's his fault Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash were left to almost fall in Abysmal Abyss and die!"
Gallus's friends gasped again.
"And he treated my dirt since the day he decided to be my guardian!"
Gallus' friends gasped a third time, this time with look with indignation and rage.
Gallus flew up into the air and shouted, "We need to bring Gramp Gruff down! For Griffonstone!"
Gallus' friends cheered in agreement, and the proceeded to voice their approval.
It's great that we'll soon be best friends with With a griff who'll be all-time adored
Gallus smiled and landed in the restored throne.
You know, this is better than I expected I'm so glad that you're all on board The future is littered with prizes Although I'm the main addressee And the point that I must emphasize is
Gallus raised his fists high and shouted at the top of his lungs.
Grampa Gruff is no match for me!
Gallus took the air again as he gestured excitedly with his forelegs as his friends cheered excitedly.
So prepare for the coup of the century Be prepared for the cleverest plan Meticulous planning Tenacity spanning Decades of denial Is simply why I'll Be so unrefuted, Respected, saluted And seen for the wonder I am
Yes, my claws and ambitions are bared Be prepared!
Gallus friends laughed excitedly and echoed his words.
Yes, his claws and ambitions are bared Be prepared!
The Castle of the Two Sister was filled with laughter.
Curtain!
Author's Note
The features songs were I Have a Plan from The Lion Guard, Cheer Up Charliefrom Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and a combination of the animated 1994 and live action 2019 versions of Be Prepared from The Lion King and its remake.
On the Song List so far (and in no particular order):Hamilton Hamilton Chicago (Glee cover)Something Broke by tarbyrocksScrooge- 1970 The Great Mouse Detective Hamilton Hamilton
Gallus' Rise To Power- A Musical
. . . . . . . .Curtain Rise!
Act III: The Law
Scene i: In the Flesh
The entire population of Girffonstone was currently out and about. Everygriff was gathered in the center of the once great city for a particular purpose. A big change for Griffonstone was in the works, and whether or not it would come to fruition depended on this very meeting.
A makeshift podium was set up, and Gilda was standing at it as she addressed the mass of griffons gathered together, with Greta and Gabby flanking her.
"Alright, alright! Listen up, Griffonstone!" Gilda said loudly, "There's been a growing desire among you lot that we should repeal the law the bans singing in Griffonstone. I gotta tell ya, I didn't think something like this would ever happen, but here we are."
Gilda cracked a smile and said, "Heh, and I gotta admit, I'm on board with this too. Believe me, I'd hate to have us break into random musical numbers like the ponies, but I'd bet some singing every once and a while would really brighten this dingy place up. So, I'm all for this!"
"ME TOO!" Gabby said cheerfully as she pumped her right fist into the air.
"Gabby, calm down," Greta said stoically as she gently grabbed Gabby's wrist and pulled her back down into a sitting position.
Gilda's smile fell and she sighed in annoyance, "But. . . , not everygriff wants the law repealed. So, we called together this meeting here to get both sides of the argument. That way we can make a fair decision about this law. . ." Gilda paused for a moment, looking as if she were dreading what was coming next, and then she said, "Well, I guess we'd better get on with it. Speaking for the side that wants to keep the no singing law. . . we have. . . Grampa Gruff. . . "
Gilda stepped away from the podium as Grampa Gruff walked over.
"Outta my way!" he spat at Gabby, deliberately pushing into her.
Gabby was silent as the older griffon walked by, but she did give him a pitying look. Gretta and Gilda, however, looked as irritated as ever.
There was a bit of applause and cheering as Grampa Gruff stood before the entire population of Griffonstone. He adjusted his fez hat, cleared his throat, and spoke out to the crowd in the loudest voice he could muster.
So ya thought ya might like to see that law go?
To hear and make the melodies that those ponies know?
Grampa Gruff smirked for a moment, then he continued.
I've got some bad news for you, deviants
You're clearly not well, and traitorous as well!
No pathetic pony attribute will tarnish this land!
Right now we will find out where you griffons really stand!
Greta and Gilda exchanged nervous glances, while Gabby merely stared at Grampa Gruff with a blank, bewildered expression on her face.
Grampa Gruff leaned on the podium and peered into the crowd with his good eye.
Are there any ponylovers in crowd today?
Grampa Gruff slammed the podium with his right fist and shouted.
Throw them into the Abyss!
There was a gasp of shock that ran through the crowd, but Grampa Gruff appeared to ignore it as he continued.
Does anygriff envy the pony way? We'll make them pay!
Thrown them into the Abyss!
Grampa Gruff hunched over the podium as he swept his good eye across the crowd in judgement, venom in his voice as he continued on with his tirade.
That one likes dancing! That one makes cake!
Get these freaks out of Griffonstone for goodness sake!
All you griffons with songs that you want to hear sung. . .
If I had my way. . .
I'd have all of you hung!
The audience was now loudly talking amongst themselves. Clearly they were affected by Grampa Gruff's speech.
Meanwhile, behind the old griffon, Gabby, Gilda, and Greta were feeling a mixture of shock and utter disbelief. Gabby's beak was hanging open, and she actually began to feel a little afraid of the old griffon. Greta was frowning in deep thought, while Gilda clearly had a deep and furious anger boiling up inside her.
In spite of all this, Grampa Gruff simply stood at the podium with a contented, satisfied smirk on his face.
Scene ii: Griffon Holiday
Slowly but surely, the muttering of the crowd slowly shrank away as a new sound garnered their attention. As more griffons noticed the sounds, more of them ceased speaking, which made the approaching noises all the more apparent.
Grampa Gruff noticed this as well, as he craned his neck to see that a group was slowly making their way into Griffonstone. It appeared that the group was the source of the noise, which turned out to not merely be noise, but music.
Before long, the group got close enough for the griffons of Griffonstone to see who it was. It turned out to be Gallus, leading his five best friends into town. What's more, his friends were all carrying a musical instrument. Smolder was playing her tambourine, Yona was playing a yovidaphone, Ocellus was playing a harmonica she held up with her magic, Silverstream was hovering in midair as she played a guitar, and Sandbar was playing a tuba.
The group was marching with serious expression on their faces, clearly that had a definite purpose in their arrival. Once the group got close enough to the crowd, Gallus turned around and gave a nod to his friends.
The group increased their volume, and Gallus turned around again to address the crowd of griffons in song with his friends backing him up.
Hear the sound of the fallen reign King Guto's kingdom went down in flames (Hey!)A shame But the Arimaspi wasn't all to blame
Gallus pointed an accusing claw at Grampa Gruff, who was still standing at the podium looking scandalized.
Hear old Gruff howlin' out of key To a hymn called faith and misery (Hey!)You see He's gonna loose the war today
Gallus' friends joined him as he stood proudly before his fellow griffons and sang.
I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies This is the dawning of the rest of our lives Griffon holiday!
Gallus thumped his chest with his fist as he continued.
Hear my heart pounding out of time Cause I'm the griff who's gonna cross the line (Hey!)To find, The money's on the ponies' side
Gallus turned back to his friends and smiled.
Hey guys, can I get an Amen?
(Amen!)
Gallus frowned as he looked around Griffonstone.
Because the flag of my land's been torn to shreds (Hey!)So sad, Look at our crumbling monument
Gallus pointed to the crumbling statue of King Grover, and everygriff in the crowd looked at it as well. Many spoke words of regret as they looked upon the old statue, shame and self-disappointment seeping into their hearts.
I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies This is the dawning of the rest of our lives Griffon holiday!
As Gallus' friends played, many of the griffons began swinging their tails, bopping their heads, and tapping their talons to the music. Smile were even beginning to appear on some of their faces.
Grampa Gruff, however, was utterly livid. The fact that Gallus had brought a bunch of non-griffons into Griffonstone to blatantly disobey a law they hadn't finished discussing just made his blood boil. Just as he was about to raise his voice and demand that the music stop, the music suddenly became lower and less strong, much to his surprise. Before he could make anything of it, Grampa Gruff was suddenly shoved to the side by Smolder, who had swiftly flown up to him.
"How dare you!" Grampa Gruff shouted, "Get your filthy claws off-."
Smolder held the old griffon's mouth shut with both claws and said, "Quiet you! Gallus has the floor."
Gallus flew up to the podium and looked out the crowd. "King Guto, give me strength," he thought to himself, then he spoke.
If you ignore old Grampa Gasbag Then his voice is your punishment
Hordes all his cash and he does nothing How can you call that a government?
"Mine, mine," goes his crotchety voice and "Hang all the griffs that don't agree!"
His world of greed is catching fire It's not the way for you and me!
Gallus lifted up his claws to the sky and declared loudly to all of Griffonstone as his friends began singing and playing strongly once again.
Just sing!
Just sing And let your voice be heard!
I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies
I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies
This is our lives, Griffon Holiday!
As the the group finished playing, the griffons all cheered, fully swayed and invigorated by the music. It was quite clear that the decision had already been made. The law banning music in Griffonstone would surely be repealed.
"YAY, GALLUS!" Gabby shouted as she flew over to him and patted him on the back.
Gilda just smiled calmly at him and said, "You did good, kid. Guess all that friendship is magic nonsense wasn't nonsense after all."
Greta was silent, deep in thought as she gazed at the cheering griffons. However, she noticed out of the corner of her eye the absolutely livid countenance of Grampa Gruff. Hatred burned in his eyes, and he swiftly turned around and walked back to his home.
Greta watched the old griffon go with a wary look in her eye.
Scene iii: Music and Songs
Starlight Glimmer was pacing in her Guidance Counselor Office in the School of Friendship. She wasn't just pacing, she was nervously pacing. She was so caught up in her own pacing that it was a solid 2 minutes before she noticed Princess Twilight had entered the room, and that was only because Twilight had spoken up.
"You really don't need to be this worried," Twilight said.
Starlight actually jumped in shock and turned to look at Twilight. She took a moment to catch her breath, then she said, "Yes I do, Twilight. You don't understand how things have been for Gallus lately." Starlight scowled a bit before continuing, "Things have gotten worse between him and that awful Grampa Gruff. I swear he's everything wrong with Griffonstone given physical form. And if Gallus' plan to help get the anti-singing law repealed doesn't work-."
"It will work," Twilight said with certainty.
Starlight huffed and said, "How could you possibly be so sure?"
"Because his friends are with him," Twilight said, "And I'm pretty sure we both have. . .experience with friendship doing amazing things. If friendship can save the world. . . or the timeline. . .then I'm pretty sure friendship can improve a struggling city."
Starlight gave Twilight a look and said, "Ya just had to go there, didn't ya. Not that I blame you, and I'll admit you've got a point. . .but still. . ."
Starlight fell silent, and Twilight looked upon her with sympathy. "You really are concerned about Gallus, aren't you?"
The question caused Starlight to recall the incident between Grampa Gruff and Trixie, as well as the Gallus asking her about finding another guardian, and of course the moment when she learned that Gallus and his friends went off to help get the anti-singing law repealed. Twilight had approved of the mission, and Starlight had only learned of it after the group had already left, leading to a full day of fretting and worrying.
Starlight went over her worries over the young blue griffon in her head for a moment, then opened her mouth to voice the conclusion she came to.
Knock-knock-knock!
Surprised at the interruption, Starlight turned to the door and called out, "Come in!"
Smolder entered the room, and she promptly closed the door behind her as she entered.
Starlight practically zipped right over to the dragon and said, "You're back! Did everything work out!? Was the law repealed? Where's Gallus? Where are the others? What happened?!"
Smolder backed up a bit, slightly freaked out by Starlight's enthusiasm.
Twilight used her magic to pull Starlight backwards and said, "Starlight, I think you should give her a moment."
"Uh, yeah!" Smolder remarked with an eye brow raised, "I just walk in and I get a pony all up in my face?"
Starlight smiled sheepishly and said, "Oops. Sorry. I just gotta know how it turned out. . ." Starlight's face fell, "Wait, why are here alone? Is Gallus okay? Oh my gosh, don't tell me you couldn't. . ."
Smolder held up a claw as she frowned seriously, "Wait, just wait a minute. I kinda got a question for you, first."
Starlight nodded and said, "Okay. . ."
Smolder stood in a relaxed pose with a claw on her hip, then she snapped her claws as she spoke.
How does a ragtag, mishmash, gang of young creatures, Change a rotting city with such depressing features?
The door suddenly opened slightly, and Ocellus slipped into the room and posed her own question.
How do we free Griffonstone from the quagmire, and somehow lift the low spirits of griffon-kind higher?
Sandbar slipped in through the slightly ajar door and chimed in with a smile.
Well. . turns out we have a secret weapon! A feathered friend you know and love who's not afraid to step in!
Silverstream zipped in right behind Sandbar and spoke absolutely gleefully.
He totally rocked the place and forced old Gruff to give in. . .
Yona threw the door wide open and shouted at the top of her lungs.
Everycreature cheer loud for truest, bluest griffon!
GALLUS!
Gallus swooped in through the door, practically glowing with delight as he danced in mid air not unlike Rainbow Dash and sang.
I'm taking Griffonstone by the reins Driving Grampa Gruff insane!
GALLUS!
And I'm never gonna stop Bring griffons to the top 'Til none of their grumpy greed remains, I'm-
GALLUS!
Watch me singing with 'em, Flinging with 'em! Convincing 'em to throw that law out!
GALLUS!
I went to get some stuff done!
GALLUS!
I went and brought out-
Music
Silverstream nodded enthusiastically as she explained.
We met with Greta and Gabby, And we chowed on Gilda's scones!
Gallus landed next to her and nodded, wearing a slightly nervous look.
We can bring back Griffonstone, raise it like a phoenix, But for this to succeed, There is someone else we need
"I know," Silverstream said.
The six friends all pointed right at the unicorn in the room.
STARLIGHT GLIMMER!
Gallus flew over to a very surprised Starlight and proudly draped a wing over her back with a smile.
Yeah, this pony's got a genius brain! When she trusts her gut, she's evil's bane!
STARLIGHT GLIMMER!
You all know I was gonna ask her eventually Who's better to guide me than a counselor, she's-
STARLIGHT GLIMMER!
My city needs her resilience To save it I just need a dose of her brilliance
STARLIGHT GLIMMER!
I wanna fight for my land back!
STARLIGHT GLIMMER!
Silverstream winked.
Get the griffons back on track!
STARLIGHT GLIMMER!
Gallus looked at Starlight intently as his other friends chanted.
Yeah! Get the griffons back on track! (Get the griffons back on track!)You know we'll get the griffons back on track! (Griffons back on track!)
I mean I want to make Griffonstone better (Starlight Glimmer!)I need help from Miss Glimmer (Starlight Glimmer! Starlight Glimmer!)To get the griffons back on track! (Ha! Ha!)
Gallus lifted his wing off of Starlight, and then quickly stepped away and turned to face her.
Guidance Counselor Glimmer. . . All of Griffonstone is waiting for you If you would help me out right now, together we can turn the tide
Gallus took out a scroll and unrolled it, showing it to Starlight.
Oh, Guidance Counselor Glimmer I have ideas to be approved by you If we manage to get this right... If we keep fighting the good fight... Griffonstone won't be the same, Miss Starlight Glimmer…
Gallus smiled gently at Starlight as he held out his scroll of ideas for Griffonstone. Starlight gazed at him in amazement for a moment, and then her eyes drifted over to Princess Twilight. The Alicorn didn't say a word. She simply smiled and tilted her head to silently communicate to Starlight that the choice was hers.
Gallus' friends all held their breath, looking on tensely as Starlight appeared to be in deep thought.
Then, Starlight smiled broadly and said, "I'll do it."
Curtain!
Author's Note
Author's Note:
The featured songs were In the Flesh from Pink Floyd's The Wall , Holiday by Green Day, and Guns and Ships from the musical Hamilton .
On the Song List so far (and in no particular order):Hamilton Hamilton Chicago (Glee cover)Something Broke by tarbyrocksScrooge- 1970 The Great Mouse Detective The Lion Guard Hamilton Hamilton
