The Prodigy Emperor

Chapters

2 - The Return of the Faith
3 - Refusing the Past
4 - The First Year
6 - Love of a Son
8 - Hopeless
9 - Reaching the Dawn with a Claw
10 - Arcturius wisdom
11 - A friend with wine
12 - The Dog of the Emperor
13 - Intrigue and Hidden Passages
14 - A child's Mistake
15 - The End of the Beginning
16 - Usurpday
17 - The First Murder
18 - A Dawn upon a Iron Claw
19 - The Ultimate Victory
1 - Let there be warmth
5 - Wings of a Father
7 - Bugging a Queen

2 - The Return of the Faith

Archon Eros VII walked silently through the halls of the palace, ignoring the low bows given to him by every random noble he encountered. His mind is far off the earthly plane on matters more interesting and important than paying attention to beings so despicable that are the parasites who call themselves better than the common folk.

Grover VI, what an intriguing hatchling. Barely born and already caught the attention of every living soul in the capital, when journalists learned about the new heir. The entire empire was... in a nutshell, a mess. But in a good way.

Many traveled to the capital in droves for the christening ceremony that would take place a few days after the official announcement of the birth of a male heir. It was incredibly convenient that a male child had been born after so many failed attempts. Even so, it wouldn't matter, the king only needed an heir after seeing his health dropping as each year passed.

But that was a huge problem. Even though many were still very optimistic about the future, the devout follower of Boreas knew that the boy would be too young to rule and would fall into the famous cycle that many child monarchs fall into. Turning into just a political item to be used by the ruling faction as an excellent justification for legitimacy.

The Nobles should already be scheming behind the scenes in their preparations to pass absurd legislation using the Child Emperor as a puppet to become more and more independent of the Crown's powers. If this continues, the Archon knew that the royal crown would become just a symbol and the empire would be in name only.

The elder Griffon could see a future with another glutton coming into power, with the boy following in his grandfather's footsteps, the fourth Grover. A monarch living a Hedonistic life while his nobles killed each other in futile wars to expand their family's territory and influence.

He already knew of a few who had aspirations to challenge the crown to gain more privileges and a few with even more blasphemous ambitions to take the crown for themselves.

The Griffin Empire would become a nightmare of constant infighting, political assassinations, and pointless wars.

But he wouldn't allow it.

The nobles had already tried to tarnish the empire's progress since the reign of the first Grover in the early days of the empire. And increase their already considerable influence and personal fortunes.

He scoffed as he turned down another hallway, already reaching the end of the palace.

His pace would slow when he noticed a sound behind him. It was hurried footsteps as a familiar voice called out to him.

"Eros!" He couldn't hold back the smile that would escape when he saw whose voice it was from.

He turned around and nodded to the fellow Archon that arrived by his side. "Proteus, good to see you again my friend." The most devout follower of the god of war had a massive grin as he grasped the hand of his friend in a handshake. "Heh, good to see you too."

Eros returned to his walk now accompanied by Proteus, his childhood best friend.

Both were from Grover's reign to the fourth when they were still hatchlings, both from different branches of the church who respectively respected their gods. Even so, the genuine devotion of Eros and the massive dedication of Proteus made them create mutual respect and a quick friendship with each other.

They played, trained, studied, and prayed together many times. And both in the midst of their paths became church brothers and one attended the other's election ceremony. One supporting the other and helping to win the positions of supreme head of the church of their respective gods.

Even after receiving such taxing and important positions, they still exchanged letters and got together to talk now and then, even if it was much less than when they were young.

And as the empire fell, the two became more and more separated from each other, forced to have their undivided attention on giving speeches, organizing religious events, and conducting rituals.

But one event changed all that. The Birth of the Sixth Grover, the youngster that brought them so much surprise. And something they lacked for a long time.

Hope.

"Excited to baptize another soul? More importantly, a new emperor?" The War Archon asked, still keeping his smile as he bumped his elbow playfully.

Eros gave a weak laugh as he scratched his head. "I.... Honestly, I'm more surprised than excited... It's the third emperor I'm going to witness ascend to the throne. And the first that I will have the honor to baptize..."

His friend burst into a hearty laugh. "You're lucky as usual, but it's not surprising given the level of trust the king has in you. You saved his life in the republican revolution after all and now he's letting you be the boy's godfather."

Both left the royal palace and walked through the streets of Griffenheim. A city that has kept all its glory and wonder even with the turbulent times that were showing the rest of Herzland, the rest of the region. Its gigantic palaces and cathedrals still glowing in all their splendor, but its streets proved to be no longer the same.

Its former crowds no longer existed as they once did, nor their goods that were once sold in markets that were considered the busiest on the continent and are now on the brink of bankruptcy. Not even the big parades felt the same anymore, with their troops less well dressed than before and numerous for lack of raw material and manpower.

It was extremely depressing for the two Archons, who remembered the empire's most prosperous and most glorious times. When people walked with joy and pride, now with fear and tension. From a past that now seemed only as distant as their youth.

"I still can't believe he put such a big responsibility into a bag of feathers as old as me." A peal of Weak laughter from Eros was followed by a loud laugh from his best friend and a claw on his shoulder.

"Oh, you can handle it! You made it through 3 generations and knowing you, you'll make it through another one!"

This made Eros chuckle while both entered a massive temple for the three gods "By Boreas, now you're making me feel really old." Both burst into laughter together.

"You turn 90 next year, right? It's no surprise that you're considered the wisest of the three of us, with everything you've experienced. You have the most stories to tell of all our race." He spoke as both walked by rows of corridors of that monstrous building with architecture dating back decades decorated and painted with beautiful symbolisms worshiping the gods.

"Let's please change the subject, you damn hypocrite! I'm tired of being reminded of my age by an old hag like yourself!" Proteus gave a mock-indignation look to his friend as he opened a door in the end of the corridor already deep in the building while nodding to the guards flanking the passageway.

"Old? Know that I am in the prime of my youth!"

"Calm down grandma before you have a heart attack." He joked as both laughed and sat down around a table in Eros's personal chambers.

Their laughter died down as both sighed. "You are not entirely wrong my friend.... We are getting old.... New generations are coming and our time will soon come."

The Archon of Boreas silently nodded as he rummaged through one of his closets in his modest bedroom for an important figure like himself. Removing a bottle of wine with two glasses and dropped a look that asked 'want one?'. His friend just nodded his head.

"But that time will not be today nor tomorrow. We still have a lot of work to do to fix this empire before we can accept the cold arms of Maar." He spoke in a low, neutral tone as he poured the wine in their glass cups.

"Yes, most of our work will go to take care of him." The warm expression of happiness changed to one of complete and utter seriousness as he took his wine and brought it to his face, stopping before the cup could contact his beak, looking at his friend to see if he understood.

"Who...?" Eros tried to play ignorant while avoiding the gaze of his friend.

The follower of the god of war only took a sip of the glass cup before bringing it to the table again. "You know exactly who I'm talking about." The Archon of Boreas only sighed in defeat.

"Proteus, we already talked about this-" He tried to reason with his friend who in turn interrupted him, his face showing clear signs of irritation.

"No Eros, we didn't. You know very well why I think collaborating with him is a bad idea."

The Archon rubbed his brows in stress as he let out a sigh. "Dear friend, there is nothing we can do. Erion is a loyal servant of Eyr and will be a good asset to the empire-"

"That idiot is only loyal to himself!" He again was interrupted, he decided to shut up and listen to his friend, who was showing signs of complete outrage in his body language. He would have to act calm and choose his words carefully so as not to antagonize his friend further. It was already difficult in the first conversation they had, and he could see that this one was going to be even worse. "He is ambitious and a complete Hedonist! He is not worthy of the sacred position he has!"

Eros only nodded, not denying the accusations his friend levied against their fellow archon. "I've said it before and I'll say it again, there's nothing we can do." his friend looked to the side with his beak clenched as he clenched his fists in frustration, but not interrupting the follower of Boreas who continued. "He is already extremely popular with the masses and the religious branch of Eyr. The only thing we can do is control him and stop him from doing more harm to the church."

Proteus turned his head to his friend and their eyes met. "You know his hunger for power is insatiable."

His fellow archon nodded. "I know, but he still doesn't have a bad relationship with me and thinks I am ignorant of his malicious intentions, he wants power and I'm the only source of that. I will restrict him without him even noticing."

The Warrior looked at the wine glass in contemplation and then took a long sip, placing it on the table while his friend continued. "The Church needs to be unified at all costs to fight the real enemy."

Proteus looked at his friend in surprise, but in an instant, the realization came. He crossed his arms and snorted in disgust. "The nobility...." Eros nodded.

"They are getting ready to make their move. The Emperor's death will likely be their call to seize power."

The Archon of Arcturius moved closer with interest as he leaned on the table with a worried expression. "You think they will try to claim the seat of Regent for themselves?" His friend nodded while taking a sip of wine in a troubled expression.

"The ambitious Duchess Gabriela is forming a coalition to stop our advances and influence in the capital and the possible council of regency. Worst of all, she got the full support of the Grand Duke of Feathisia."

This got the surprise of Proteus, that took a look of disappointment. "I expected more from him.... Disappointing. He's not a bad griffon."

"Agreed, but he has become another obstacle for us. We have to take control one way or another if the Emperor dies too soon." He looked at his cup between his fingers, not needing to look at his friend to see his shocked expression.

"You.... Are you listening to what you are saying....? We are guides, not leaders! We can't take control, this is not our sacred duty! " Eros's expression did not change, despite his friend's worried objections. He would agree with him. It wasn't an Archon's job, it wasn't their duty to seek the power of a nation for themselves.

But with the situation the nation was in, seeing the nobles crumbling their house and forcing brother to turn against brother.

He couldn't stand aside anymore.

"You're wrong my friend. This is our duty. Protect and guide the Griffons to salvation, and that will only be possible with our entire species unified. And if that task was to be left to the nobles, they would rather live lives of eternal pleasure and luxury than worry about the lives of those they consider 'lesser'." He said not bulging. His eyes were cold and determined. Meeting his friend's own without a hint of doubt.

Proteus kept silent looking at his friend in complete shock, he never heard his friend so frustrated with the nobility like this before. He didn't know his hate for them ran so deep.

He wasn't like this before, he may have ill feelings towards them. But he never desired to take them head-on for the control of the nation.

"Why Eros?" This made the Archon lift his eyebrow in curiosity to his friend who continued. "Why are you doing this? You never had such radical thoughts decades ago. And neither the desire of more power." He calmly got up and walked towards the bedroom balcony much to the curiosity of his friend who remained, which showed a magnificent view of the city of Griffenheim, the crown jewel of the empire. And Archon's house for as long as he could remember.

He turned his head down to face the streets below. "The truth Proteus, my brother.... Is that I for the first time in years... I am hopeful...." Now Proteus couldn't contain the confusion from being shown in his face.

"You are doing this for.... Hope?"

The Archon of Boreas now looked towards the sky. "I was born and raised in the best years of the empire. When I could walk the streets, to see the children play with a smile on their faces and having fun on every corner without worrying about the tomorrow. Adults being able to live and work without worry knowing that their children would have a peaceful and safe future. And where all our race lived in a golden age of peace, order, and luxury." The warrior slowly got up and walked towards beside his friend, who kept talking while not taking his gave off the beautiful and clear skies of the city.

"Now? I see a shell of its glorious past. I now see those young men being recruited from an early age into the army knowing they will have to fight for a cause they don't fully understand. Parents going to their graves completely terrified of the future they are leaving behind, the one where their children are being dragged into. So uncertain and so dark." He turned his head to look to his friend by his side, who now has on his face more and more look of horror as his friend continued.

"I see the fall of that flag. I see the crown being broken at the feet of a tide of darkness and ignorance that would carry us back to times of tribal warfare. With Griffons totally oblivious of their glorious past and all they could accomplish together and killing each other for trivial, selfish, and misguided reasons." As his face contorted more and more into anger.

"This is the future I know will befall unto our dear nation, my brother. The future I know will happen if we remain on the sidelines while everything we held dear gets turned into ash by the winds of time. " He sighs as he put a hand to his face, releasing all his frustration while his friend looks unto the ground with a face of realization and complete horror.

"And is a fate I will not let it befall to our people." A smile appeared on his face as he withdrew his hand and placed it on the shoulder of his fellow Archon. "I will do everything in my power to restore this great empire to its former glory, no matter the cost."

His gaze dropped and he closed his eyes, feeling the eyes of his friend burning through him.

"I will not lie to you my friend, The path I'm taking is not what a good Archon nor a decent Griffon would do. I'll be forever bound to a dark future, I'm trading love for hate and honor for disgrace. No one would choose this path knowing the consequences and i will be forever hated for it.... But if I have to destroy my reputation, credibility and soul to ensure that future generations don't have to go through this whole cycle of destruction and war. I will without hesitation." He finished his explanation with his eyes glued to the floor, waiting for his best friend's verdict.

After dropping this bomb on him, he indirectly asked him a question. A vote of confidence or a vote of disfavor.

'Will you come with me to fight on this crusade or not?'

A few excruciating moments would pass in which to Eros seemed like hours. He simply didn't know what answer to expect; from outright anger at him for wanting to usurp power no matter how selfless he put it, to simply walking out of the room in silence. To outright kill him right then and there for such a threat he could become to the status-quo.

In the end, he heard a sound. And the choice had been made.

The sound of metal sliding from a scabbard.

The sword being drawn.

'I don't know what I expected, you were always the lord marshal of loyalty my friend. I won't fight fate, if that's your choice. I'll understand.'

He closed his eyes in anticipation of the attack.

The flow of the wind with the movement of a sword coming down with force. And fate was sealed.

The sword landed right in front of him.

'What?'

Opening his eyes and looking at his friend. He could see him with his sword stuck in the ground being held by his right hand. And then with his free hand, he placed it on his friend's shoulder.

Instead of death, he found a claw on his shoulder squeezing in comfort.

"Eros, my brother of faith. You have my sword." For the first time in a long time, the Archon made a genuine warm smile and nodded to his best friend.

"I knew I could count on you Proteus."

He didn't know how long he'd been sleeping. Darkness still took hold of his surroundings.

But that heat. That wonderful, familiar, soothing warmth kept him company.

But he didn't feel tired now. On the contrary, he was full of energy, he felt capable of doing a lot now!

But he was so comfortable. He didn't want to end this incredible feeling, he didn't want to leave.

Although. What was this wonderful place? Where was he exactly? Was it related to the noises he'd heard before falling asleep?

So many questions, but how would he get the answers? Only the pitch answered him, the great nothingness.

'The eyes.'

.....

True, the eyes. The first thing he had tried to move and use upon waking up....

Before he hadn't been able to, no matter how hard he tried to use it. She always seemed to refuse to function, he was starting to believe it was impossible to be able to.

But he believed that the wall he had encountered for the first time made him able to recognize his surroundings and began to think.

It wasn't impossible, it was simply that he hadn't put in enough effort and dedication.

But first, he needed a loophole from warmth. For the truths he would need to free his face.

Slowly he tried to bring his head back, planning to do the same as he had with the wall before.

.....

He couldn't move.

But this time he didn't feel that sticky liquid thing from before, it was more... Comfortable and...

Familiar.

He tried again and again. But this time he was so trapped that he couldn't even move his body, he obeyed him but the heat was holding him in place. He grunted as he pushed harder and harder.

But something completely startled him, a gigantic shudder and then the heat on top of him was just gone. He could now slightly lift his head.

But still, nothing had changed. He still couldn't see anything.

This time, his every effort was in his eyes. But unlike before, he easily managed to open it. And as he did so, he was welcomed by a very strong light, which made him instinctively close his eyes to keep from being hurt by the powerful light.

Slowly he opened and closed his eyes, trying to get them used to it. And after a while he was able to make out things.

And he saw. It was a giant who had him in his arms.

That was the heat he felt.

This giant.

His fur was brown, he had weird clothes with lots of cute, shiny things stuck to him. He had this shiny thing stuck in his head and it was wonderful.

His face showed a warm smile in his giant beak with his blue eyes narrowed as he lifted a gigantic claw and he started to.... Petting....?

Yes, he was petting him...

It was good...

Was that what brought him into this world?

Was he the one who had brought him the warmth he loved so much?

Its beak suddenly opened. And for the first time, he spoke to him.

"Good morning my treasure."

Author's Note

Okay, when I started this story, I thought it would be more secondary and smaller compared to many others. I didn't expect it to explode like this, 100 likes on the first day along with 600 reads and featured in first place for so long. And now in the second day almost a thousand! Jesus christ how i love you all.

Archon Eros VII

Archon Proteus III

3 - Refusing the Past

"This funding is more deserving in my land you canine idiot!" The Baron of Angriver rose to his feet, roaring with rage and hatred towards the opposite side of the table.

"I will not tolerate such an insult to my people before this council, Leer!" The Count of Bronzehill clashed with the Baron with a more controlled fury.

"Brothers, brothers. Please, we are all present before our majesty. Let's try to maintain some degree of civility, at least in the presence of our ruler." Gerlach intervened, keeping his expression serene and hands on the table. The Baron scoffed but backed down and sat down again in his place.

The Count of Bronzehill gave the Emperor a quick but respectful bow. "I apologize my emperor." Grover just made a 'let it go' hand motion while internally thanking the Grand Duke. His good reputation and strong presence helps to be a mediator in times like these.

Which for many people would be a surprising sight. Baron Leer was as persistent as he was stubborn. If it had been any other leader, he certainly wouldn't have stopped there.

But Grand Duke Gerlach, leader of Feathisia was much loved both by the masses and nobles alike for his calm, patient, reasonable personality and quick resolve. But surely being head of the greatest and most powerful duchy didn't hurt in that regard.

He ran one of his claws across his forehead as he let out a long, stressed breath. How many hours was he trapped in this hell? Two? Four? He couldn't even keep up anymore. It was a huge pain to put up with the endless bickering of his vassals.

The County of Bronzehill and the Barony of Angriver became one of the main reasons for these meetings and debates. For one simple reason.

Industry.

Count Ignatius and Baron Leer were requesting the crown for support to boost the industry of their respective vassals. One candidate is much more tempting than the other.

The county of Bronzehill's mountains contains vast wealth and resources that have helped the empire at its worst. And the citizens who inhabit the vassal; Diamond Dogs have as great loyalty as the Griffons that inhabit the capital. And building industries there would go a long way in helping the empire's economic recovery and possibly its revival, with projects like the new Grover V Industrial Park in Ravensburg already in their final stages of approval.

While the Barony of Angriver is.... Less ideal compared to the other candidate. Since the territories they occupy are deep within the Scheißwald Forest of the Eastern Herzlands and carry a title that angers the baron who rules it immensely even though it carries truth. Being called one of the most backward realms of the Griffonian Empire.

Everything you could expect from a modern nation, they didn't have. It was as if time had stopped, politically and industrially.

With the Nobles controlling absolutely everything and the peasants working as slaves in everything but name to be able to live on the noble lands. They were still trapped in feudalism. Many of the peasants fleeing to the forests just to be able to live in freedom and banditry.

No wonder it was one of the most dangerous territories to live and travel.

The Emperor was sickened just to think that there were people from his kingdom living in conditions both precarious and horrendous. But nothing he could do. His vassals had the power to administer the people of their territories as they saw fit, and even if the Emperor tried to intervene, war would result.

In a war they didn't have money, Griffinpower, or willingness for. And a war within their territories would only leave them vulnerable to outside threats.

The problem is that the empire, due to its drastic loss of territories and resources, has very little money and raw material to help boost the economy of the central territories, much less that of the duchies and counties.

But with finally economic stability following the end of the various succession crises that plagued the empire, funds could finally be cut from the army and allocated to the economy that was in pieces.

But now he had a choice. Which Vassal of the two to irritate, and which one to be in debt and grateful to him?

The choice was pretty easy considering everything.

A more developed, loyal, progressive vassal and a dear friend of Grover V.

"I made up my mind." He says as he rises from his throne. Closing the table discussions. All eyes were now directed towards the Emperor.

"Baron Lee...." The griffon's face immediately flashed with a cocky grin directed at the count he had now gained a hatred for. "I'm sorry."

His smile immediately dropped. And he looked at the king with shock. "W-what??"

The Emperor gave the Baron his best apologetic smile. "After much debate and deliberation. The Crown will provide Bronzehill with the necessary funding to grow its industry."

With two low claps by his claws, The eight leaders who sat at the table all stood up. "With that, the great council is dissolved." With a low bow, each leader left their seats and walked out of the room.

Grover watched them, even from a distance he could see and hear the baron advancing towards the Diamond Dog Count with an expression of fury. The emperor almost sent the guards to stop a possible fight right there.

"This isn't over Ignatius." He said as if at the mere mention of the count's name insulted him, a finger of his claws pointed at the Bronzehill Leader's face. Who kept a rigid face looking at his rival without concern.

"I assure you Baron Leer, we are quite done here." The Count says in a neutral tone as he passed the blocking noble, who huffed but went on his way.

The Emperor was not pleased by this, but he was glad that the Baron's hatred was not directed at him. What he least needed right now was a Noble to get some kind of childish grudge with him.

Casting his gaze around the room, his expression closed tighter and tighter. How many empty chairs... He remembered when this room was packed, there were at least 30 representatives in this room when he took the throne and many more scribes. Each of their respective regions, duchies and principalities.

Now the number was less than 10.

He sighed as he closed his claws into a fist, squeezing tightly in an attempt to assuage his anger, his sense of betrayal.

'Am I such a disappointing leader? Was it me who allowed all this disgrace?'

Those thoughts had always cursed him, and the more his empire crumbled, the more they came back in full force.

'Does not matter.' His face had turned to one of determination.

'I have someone dependent on me now.' A smile came to his face as he remembered that moment.

That being so fragile, small and gentle. A fur coloring identical to his.

And his eyes.

When they first opened, he would say to everyone who would listen with pride that he was there. Holding him in his belly, his greatest achievement in his arms.

'You should be with me my pearl...' He thought sadly, slowly walking out of the room and entering the luxurious royal corridors. Ignoring the large number of the royal bowing guards.

'He has my eyes.... Heh.....' He thought with a smile threatening to cross his beak. 'You would laugh at how clingy I got to the boy....'

When his son was born, he insisted on staying with him all the time, the doctors had to argue for 15 minutes just for him to let them do tests on the little heir. And he spent even more time beside his son's crib, watching him day and night.

'I missed four meetings because I didn't leave his side.... Thank the gods Gabriela managed to solve the empire's problems in my absence...' He laughed softly. As he turned another hallway towards his royal bedroom.

These hallways... He had many memories of those decorated walls of galleries created and collected by his great-great-grandfather Grover the first, from his years of conquest throughout Griffonia. Which had been supplemented by artifacts and other arts by his successors.

Unfortunately, very little had survived.

Not since that day.

The day he wanted to forget. That he'd always tried to pretend it never happened, but it brought him nightmares for years.

Grover V still had nightmares from when they broke into the palace. The screams and gunfire through the walls of his house and battle cries chanting his death.

It was terrifying. He remembers the shaking in his claws and the tears that streamed from his eyes as he huddled in a corner of his room. It made him for the first time feel fear for his life. Hearing thee royal guard fighting a losing battle in the outside walls of the palace.

If it weren't for Eros, he wouldn't have survived another day. He would be a dead emperor, executed in a public square and humiliated in front of thousands, hanged as a trophy for the republicans to show to the whole world.

So when he announced to Archon that he would be the godfather at the ceremony, he had to make a losing struggle to not burst out laughing at seeing one of the most respected elders in the empire, remembered for his coldness and iron will. Stammering and desperately trying not to show his embarrassment to the emperor, and failing miserably.

He stopped. He began to hear a huge commotion a few rooms away from where he was.

A commotion? Inside the palace? Impossible.

They had patrols after patrols outside and inside the walls of the gigantic building. Whoever tried to invade the place would have already been stopped by the dozens of elite royal guard troops who were ready to kill and die to prevent anyone from even getting close to the emperor's residence.

And his eyes widened as he came to realize the place where the source of the noise came from.

The noises came directly from his room.

Directly where his son was.

He bolted towards the bedroom, even though his weak body gave a few cries of protest, he ignored them. He had to see his son. Using even its wings to increase speed.

The closer he got the better he heard the commotion, scaring some maids and palace officials who saw their Emperor running by as if his life depended on it. But he ignored everything around him, he heard the sounds better. It was crying.

His son was screaming and crying. He had never done such a thing since his birth, and it fueled even more despair in him.

He desperately opened his door and ran inside. Listening to the screams and cries of his son. Crossing the room he saw that nothing seemed out of the ordinary. But still, he would not drop his guard. Rushing inside, he moved towards the bunk where his son was.

He found that.... his son was still in the bunk. But he was in obvious distress, what was happening to his boy?? He was screaming, thrashing around on the bed and trying to slash at the air with his claws while his eyes were still closed.

'Nothing seems to have happened with him, but why is he so desperate? Is he still sleeping??' He thought while gaping in distress. What he could do?? He was screaming, thrashing around on the bed and trying to slash at nothing with his claws while his eyes were still closed.

"Oh my god son, calm down! Please!" He tried futilely to grab his son, letting out a grunt of pain and pulling away when cut by his son's claws.

"Shhhhh, I'm here." He ignored the claws of his son this time, fighting the pain of his son's claws bruising his skin. Picking him up and slowly hugging him. "I am here."

It hurt, holy shit, it hurt a lot.

Even newborn griffons were born with their claws very well developed. So every cut his son gave him made him clench his beak very hard, but did nothing to stop it. Letting his son vent on himself while trying to comfort the youngster.

'Gabriela is going to kill me when she see all these clothes all torn apart, but I couldn't just watch my son suffer like this.'

He was surprised when the pain in his chest had already stopped. My god he could see that his royal clothes had been torn to shreds.

But that wasn't what he was focused on.

But in his son.

Who he looked with even more surprise, seeing the baby griffon grabbing him in a tight hug.

His clothes and fur were getting wet. He was crying.

His son cried as he hugged him in comfort.

'He had a nightmare...? Something like this plaguing his mind so soon?' He wouldn't think twice. His parental instincts taking over, he returned the hug.

1 Year. He was just a year old and again he proved he was anything but an ordinary baby. Looking at this scene just proved it.

On the first day he had almost managed to walk, on the third he had already opened his eye. And in the second month he had spoken his first word. And now, with after his first year of life he was already plagued with nightmares?

His son didn't deserve this. Why? Why the gods wanted to punish his son so much from mistakes he made??

'I promise my love. I promise that as long as I breathe, no one will dare to lay a finger on our angel.' He vowed on his thoughts as he hugged his son tighter. 'I promise this.'

Those images always flashed for moments and came back in his head. From the first time he felt free. Sometimes they brought up information that seemed to add to his memory. Helping him with many things like walking, learning a little about what those familiar figures talked about and took care of him, and how to act in front of them.

But as the days passed, it wasn't just flashes that came with useful information, but sometimes his dreams were completely dominated by creatures that scared him. Memories?

No. He refused.

These couldn't be his memories. From those gigantic, frightening, plucked, cold creatures.

The things these dreams showed them were useful and he learned a lot from them. But now he just wanted them to go away.

He wanted them to stop.

But they did the opposite, they came back in full force. And instead of just giving glimpses, they played it for long periods of time in that frightening scenario.

But this one, this one was much worse. Now he saw everything much more clearly.

It showed things he could only describe in one word, 'monsters'

Those monsters walked in twos all the time, giving an absurd height. Having no wings or fur, and they were countless. Crammed together and marching like a sea to the incessant hellish sounds of crashing and splintering in the background that pierced his mind like a jackhammer.

He saw cold, gigantic monuments with translucent walls. They were square, they had no life or personality. Lines and lines those monuments up to the horizon.

The sky wasn't blue as he'd seen it through the window when he'd watched it for a few days from his comfortable bed. It was gray and thick like a fog. It's lethal.

It was all so sad. So monotonous.

And these beings just didn't seem to care, walking alongside rows and rows of huge metal boxes that contained windows and were powered by wheels. Along with tubes that released more of that gray stuff that dominated the air.

Looking at himself, he saw himself as one of those things. One of those beings.

He panicked.

He didn't want to be one of those things, he didn't want to be a part of something so…dead. So hopeless.

He felt like he was running in that scene. By that tide of dead beings inside. But he felt he was running in circles or on an endless road.

He tried and tried but it felt like he was walking through a labyrinth that had no end in sight. The air seemed to make him cough. It was as if he breathed poison.

He wanted to get out of there.

He was in complete despair, not wanting to witness or live in any of this. He didn't want to be a part of it. He wanted to go back!

He did something he hadn't done in as long as he could remember.

He screamed. One was trying to get out of that nightmare. Or at least call for help.

Someone, anyone.

He wanted that familiar warmth. That heat to save him from it all.

He wanted that familiar figure he'd seen when he opened his eyes. He trusted him.

He wanted the warmth of that familiar figure back!

"Oh my god son, calm down! Please!"

......

Wait! He knew that tone! He knew that voice!

He came! He heard his call!

'Please save me, get me out of this nightmare!'

He couldn't take it anymore.

"Shhhhh, I'm here." He felt it.

The heat returned. He felt calm at last. That familiar warmth was with him.

He stopped resisting, and the heat take over. From the figure he was sure had again caught him in its calm and warm loving claws.

'Thank you for being here for me.' He thought, his mind freeing itself from the thoughts and memories that terrified him so much. Managing to finally sleep in peace and content.

Author's Note

This story is being very well accepted! Much better than I expected! Thank you so much guys.

Baron Leer the Vicious

Count Ignatius Bronzetail

Grand Duke Gerlach IV

4 - The First Year

A few more days have passed since that day, the day when... What would the word be...?

Memories, yes that's the right word. From the day those memories cursed him, they had been his full focus from that night on.

He still remembered everything from the feathered beings to the gigantic, monotonous buildings.

The fear had passed, and it reminded him that memories were just that, visions of his mind. They were harmless. And with that, another feeling completely took over the fear.

Curiosity.

Why did he have these memories? Who were those beings? And what were those things that seemed to break the heavens with their heights alone?

There were so many questions, but he couldn't keep his thoughts on it for long. For his room was in constant motion.

Very different from the normal days he spent in his small room.

They were... fun.

His....

Dad?

Yeah, his father. It was the only way he could name the one who brought him into the world, and who was present from all the coming of the light to the back of the dark. Or day and night.

He didn't quite know the definition of the word, but it sounded right. When he thought of him, good memories seemed to follow.

And from the first day of light he had come that figure he passed to....

What would the word be...?

Like? Be fond of?

Love....

Yeah! Love! That's the word he was looking for.

He was still having a hard time finding the correct definitions of certain words, and it was even harder to imitate those grown-ups did. They seem to find his failed attempts amusing, others finding him adorable.

Yes, he knew he was still a long way from being able to do just like the adults, but damn, they didn't need to laugh at his failings! He was trying dammit!

Fortunately for him, his father was always there to cheer him up and keep him company, encouraging him and always acting in awe of everything he did.

The adult's reaction to seeing him walking through the crib for the first time was the best. He just didn't like the huge commotion that ensued after that, with a bunch of adults who looked even older than his father huddled around the crib to watch him walk.

The clothes of some were funny, looking like a bunch of colored cloths tied around their bodies, wearing some funny hats. Others wore shiny things and looked solid.

And since he started walking he realized how big the world was. At least in that room.

Everything was giant and so different!

But unfortunately for him, his father never let him walk out of the crib. Whenever he managed to jump over the huge golden pillars and start looking at all those intriguing furniture and items, he always picked him up and put him back on the bed. (Even with his grumbles and chirps of protest.)

But now it was different.

His father was nowhere to be found. And the walls shook and drowned out sounds that came from outside.

It looked like his house was very busy.

But why?

Usually, at long intervals he could hear the noise of a claw touching the ground, it was low and very rare as they usually tried to prevent such an occurrence from happening. Not only not to make noise, but also not to damage the claw by scraping the ground. (It was also pretty uncomfortable when it happened. He'd found out the hard way.)

And on top of that, they liked to try to avoid making noise around him.

While grateful for undisturbed sleep, he was annoyed by how boring the room was. When his father was there, he got all the attention in the world.

His father was the best.

But those thoughts had to be put aside as he watched the two maids who flanked him talking to each other. They looked pretty excited.

They were showing what looked like noble clothes, much like the ones his father wore, only in miniature.

They lifted him up, and put some weird ribbons around everything; from his claws, hind legs to belly.

It was freezing cold and they were squeezing hard. But he endured it easily, he was even rewarded with sweet food. At first glance, he was very disgusted to touch it.

It looked like poop. It had the same colors, only having more.... Symmetric, being square. Even so, he ate at the insistence of the maids.

How appearances can be deceiving.

He didn't regret it, the taste was wonderful. So wonderful that he almost made a fuss of it right there to receive more of how good they were.

But he didn't have time, because after all those measurements they both picked him up and started putting those clothes on him.

It wasn't the first time he'd worn clothes. Often when his father went out, he would take him around on meetings with other people who seemed important.

Yet he never felt the urge to observe it much, feeling more boredom than anything else and sleeping through most of these encounters.

But the ones he did pay attention to, helped him understand a little more of the language they used.

She looked extremely familiar. And whenever he stopped to think, he was reminded of that dream.

The same with those creatures so alien but so... Familiar.

Those dreams were now more something in which he acted as a spectator of a show than a nightmare.

But something was itching him wrong.

It was how the mannerisms of those creatures and those of his family were extremely similar. The language that came out of the beaks and mouths of such different creatures could be so alike, and how their body language of stress, happiness and sadness were identical.

It was fascinating, but he still had no idea what those things were. Even so, he analyzed them a lot more now, and was already practicing and trying to imitate the lines of those creatures from his dreams in real life.

And that had already helped him tremendously, he was finally able to understand what adults were saying, (Although still with great difficulty). It wasn't much, but it was progress!

He could barely contain himself, he was very excited to show his father this. Show him to see that expression of surprise and pride he so loved to see directed at him.

But that wasn't relevant at the moment, seeing himself lifted and seeing the two at his side wearing him and fiddling with everything, every little detail.

The clothes were really tight, and they were putting some shiny things on it.

He felt handsome. Bright even.

'But why all this?' He thought as he watched them both pick him up and be placed on the back of one of them, comfortably between her wings.

'Where are they taking me?' He looked with curiosity as they left the room, two guards joining them in their walk.

The cathedral gleamed with the glare of the sun. The griffonic decorations on the glasses demonstrate great symbolism of each Emperor and his deeds, all their deeds but his. The fifth.

He let out a sigh of sadness but straightened up again, having already accepted that compared to the other emperors he was nothing. Even so young he was still not worthy of being placed before those who had done so much for the empire.

But today wasn't about him. Running his gaze over the dozens of his subjects who sat lining up in front of him at the front of the cathedral. Where the priests were kept.

He couldn't contain a huge smile from escaping his beak as he watched his son's christening ceremony. The three archons stood at the altar while the huge crowd remained silent. Hearing the holy words first spoken by the Archon of Boreas.

"My Friends! Brothers and sisters children of the gods!" Everyone's attention was cut to the figure in the center of the priests and in the middle of the other two archons. An old Griffon, his feathers already showed a white fur beneath his naturally brown, a color similar to his tired but determined eyes. He was in his white and red regalia.

"All your lordships stand before this humble house of the gods at the behest of your majesty, patriarch of house Von Greifenstein and de facto leader of all the Griffons. Grover V!" A burst of applause accompanied this proclamation, Grover emerging from his secluded part of the building and walking through the open passage of the ranks, his subjects watching him.

'Applause and fake smiles. You're only here for favors, but I have to keep up appearances.' He thought frustrated inside as he smiled on the outside and waved at the others. Climbing above the altar and standing beside the clergy.

"Grover V, I Archon of Boreas, devotee of the King of all Gods and heavenly father, I ask you. What do you wish from your gods and protectors?" The Archon would ask as some priests walked away to make way for a maid carrying him. The heir to the empire and his son. Who watched everything with enormous curiosity while he kept huddled with clear nervousness between her wings.

The question was obviously rhetorical, everyone present already knew why they were there. But according to the tradition of rites of passage, the question should be asked.

"Grover V, I Archon of Arcturius, devotee of the God of War and father of warriors, I ask you. What do you wish from your gods and protectors?"

"Grover V, I Archon of Eyr, devotee of the god of fertility and father of families. What do you wish from your gods and protectors?"

They both followed next, Boreas being the Elder Brother, was the first to speak.

The Archon of Arcturius, Proteus contained pure white fur, hiding several scars on its face and body. Wearing military silver clothes and white cape. As the Archon of Eyr, Erion wore clothing similar to that of Eros, containing yellow fur and a golden pendant bearing the symbol of his goddess's plant.

In normal ceremonies only the priest of the certain god that the family was devoted to would ask such a question.

But this ceremony was anything but ordinary.

The Emperor gave the Archons a polite nod. "The Baptism of the Beginning."

The three would nod in response, then speak together.

"You ask before the house of the gods, for your son to be baptized before the presence of the gods. By doing so you accept the responsibility of training him in the practice of the faith. It will be your duty to bring him into the path of the gods' commandments, to love God and neighbor."

The Archons of Eyr and Arcturius that flanked Boreas's gaze shifted to the older man, who separated from the pair and walked towards the Emperor.

"Do you understand the path and responsibility that will burden you?" He asked the question already knowing the answer.

"I know. And I accept." Grover responded with no hesitation in his voice and body.

Normally, it would be at this point that the Godparents would be asked for their part in the ceremony. Eros just smiled at the emperor who would reciprocate.

The duo of Archons behind them would now walk towards them. Erion and Proteus this time would turn to Eros. "Are you ready to help this child's parents in their work as Faithful to the divine?"

Eros reverted to his stoic expression. "Yes I am."

Erion and Proteus would then clap their hands twice. Calling the attention of all who witnessed the event.

"The faithful followers of the Pantheon of Gods warmly welcome you. Grover VI!" The applause that followed was much more excited this time, with some even whistling.

The priests had to raise their claws to ask for silence for the continuation of the ceremony.

"Grover VI. Now, we will bless you." The Three Archons passed from the Emperor towards the child. The Elder of Boreas took the lead, followed by Arcturius and Eyr, oldest to youngest.

Being the Archon of the foremost and most important god, Eros was first. Approaching the heir to the empire, who was comfortable on an enormous pillow for his small size. He was sitting watching the entire ceremony with great attention and curiosity. Something that many found adorable.

Getting a lot of 'Awww's when turning his head to the side when he sees the Archon coming towards him.

"In the name of Boreas, father of heaven and Lord of lords. May his wings carry you to the skies and forever carry you to the sunset." He would say as he ran his claws into some water that was kept in a basin on a marble pillar.

"By the waters of the tree of Griffonstone's birth, birthplace of the Griffonkind. May your wings be guided by the king of heaven." Eros says with a rigid but calm tone while running the water on little Grover's wings, who would let out a laugh feeling ticklish.

Eros would just smile at the little one. 'May Boreas protect you, child.'

He then walked to his original position, making room for the God of War Archon and the 'middle brother'.

"By the waters of the tree of Griffonstone's birth, Cradle the Griffonkind. May your claws be guided by the god of war." Proteus proclaimed in a booming voice as he gently took Grover's claws and ran the water over them.

Doing the same as Eros, he made way for the last Archon, the youngest of the three and coincidentally the 'youngest' of the gods. God of fertility and family.

"By the waters of the tree of Griffonstone's birth, Cradle of the Griffonkind. May your body be blessed with a healthy life by the god of the family." Erion would proclaim in a gentle and affectionate tone as he ran the water over all parts of the child's body.

When finished, he would return with the other Archons, continuing the ceremony.

After that, the Emperor's attention left the Cathedral, focusing attention on his son, which made him let out a huge smile.

What a pride he was, his son maintaining a calm and composure before the most important members of the faith. Not crying even once and showing extreme curiosity throughout the ceremony, is a sign of intelligence and perception.

"He has a future Grovy. You should be proud." He looked to the side to find the owner of the female voice and smiled as he bumped into a pink Griffon woman, with her mauve eyes.

"Pride is what I have most of him, Gabriela." He let his smile go carefree to his cousin and close friend.

"He's almost an identical copy of you, it's impressive." This made Grover have to fight not to laugh, not wanting to interrupt the religious ceremony with such an insult.

"At least he's healthy." He joked, and both of them snorted. And then they turned their attention to the priests, who were now beginning the bidding prayers.

The Emperor couldn't be happier, his son had survived his first year. A big step up the ladder of his life, even though he knew he had many more problems ahead, he would celebrate the small victories.

He had passed Eyr's tests and overcame the diseases that plagued many newborns, and now he had won his favor to grow.

Author's Note

Duchess Gabriela Eagleclaw

Archon Erion XII

6 - Love of a Son

The hours passed like the wind, turning into days, and days into months. And Grover grew bigger and bigger, his feathers taking on their coloring. His intelligence and energy grew along with his body.

At the age of two, little Grover did something that shocked his father when he came to say good morning to his son. A normal action before returning to his daily routine in the county and daily chores, when he saw him flying in circles around the room, having knocked over furniture and items.

He would be beyond happy if it weren't for his desperation in trying to catch the unruly child who was flying around the room without any type of control. It took three guards plus the Emperor to catch the boy mid-flight. The Father then went on to lecture his son for almost an hour on how irresponsible he was and made Grover apologize to the staff who then had to go in and fix the room that was destroyed by the little beast.

But this was not the end of the child's antics, it was only the beginning.

All the maids of the palace along with the guards in the following weeks learned a lesson that they would carry with them for the next decade.

To fear the little terror and its destructive power.

The little emperor passed like a hurricane through the corridors of the palace, knocking down and messing up everything he saw in excitement. Flying like there was no tomorrow and laughing all the way, amused to see the desperation of the palace guard who frantically pursued him to prevent the heir to the empire from getting hurt in his rampage of destruction.

The Emperor on the outside showed complete disapproval and at all times tried to teach his son a lesson verbally, but on the inside, he used all his strength not to laugh, and whenever he had the chance he simply disappeared when his son had fun. Why stop? The brat was having fun, he would let it be.

The dreams no longer bothered the child, in fact, they had become something Grover looked forward to every night before he went to sleep. In each dream, he found himself in a different place and with people with different clothes, appearances, and even iron boxes with different wheels. It was an extremely interesting thing to watch.

Day after day he explored every room he could. Saying a happy hello to every guard and every maid. It was a quiet and very good life, everyone he knew there was friendly, he ate all kinds of food and learned a lot from some old priests who were brought by grandpa Eros.

At first, Grover got bored very quickly, and always asked the priests if he could go out to play, which many left him without question.

Learning to read wasn't very difficult, but he couldn't contain his chest from puffing up with pride as he heard the praises of admiration from his teachers when he did. Writing... That was another story.

Each word had different rules. So many letters form a singular word that designated something he wanted to demonstrate, like an object or person. And he needed to piece this together to formulate a complete explanation.

It was very frustrating, but with a little effort and motivation from his elders, he slowly made progress and learned.

He would love to be able to read while walking or going to the garden of the royal palace, but his body and claws still being very tiny from the fact that he was only 2 years old didn't help much.

But that was bothering him now. His age.

Before, he loved all the attention adults gave him and how they marveled at everything he did, but now? It became boring. Yes, he is discovering new things as he grows up, but why do they act that way? All of them can do much more not only better but they basically know everything!

He's still figuring it all out; from letters, words, numbers, and more. The adults already knew all this! They know everything as if it were a part of them! Why was he knowing these things so impressive? He's sure that if he can do it, any other kid his age should be able to do it.

Adults are very strange.

But he pushed those thoughts aside and walked towards his favorite spot since his father had shown him on a tour of the palace.

The garden.

Ever since he was introduced to the Garden he had marveled at everything, gardeners would only laugh when they watched him leaping over the trees, exploring with a curiosity only a child could show. From bush to bush, picking every flower he could and smelling each of their wonderful scents for the first time as a clearly worried father flew after his son.

He laughed a lot when he remembered the chases he and his father had. But the laughter disappeared as quickly as it came.

'It's a lot of fun... But Dad was in a lot of pain afterward...' He thought with a sad expression as he sat down on a branch, ignoring the guards who followed him from a distance.

His Father kneeling beside the tree after the chase, panting and groaning as he pressed one of his hands to his belly. By Boreas how desperate it was for the little one, for a moment he thought his father was hurt and it was his fault.

He hated to think that something like this would happen to someone so incredible. And guilt took over him completely.

Even crying he was comforted by his father, who ignored the pain and patted his head, his claws being gentle with his son's feathers. His beaming smile overshadowed the darkness of fear and dispelled the guilt from his son's body.

This worried him too much. More and more of his father was having a much harder time seeing him, and more and more he spent less time playing with him, choosing to just lie on his side watching him while he played. But he never left Grover's side even with all the pain in his body, and that was enough for the little one not to bother his father too much with his worries. He was very smart and intelligent, he would definitely find a way to be okay.

He looked down at the floor as he sighed, waving his paws in frustration. His father was now in the palace busy with some extremely important event, he didn't know. A place called 'Saquitela' was having a... Rebolution? Retrolution...?

He hit his head with his claws in frustration. He had forgotten the word!

But that bothered him a lot, who would play with him now?

He hated that in the matter of being an emperor, his father didn't have time for almost anything. Isn't he the big boss of everything? He should then tell everyone to stop calling daddy so he can play with him as long as he wants!

He crossed his arms in frustration. Yes, they have to help people, but from what he could see from the people around them every day, they were all clean, wore nice clothes, and ate a lot in the restaurants near the palace. Everyone has a good life! They don't need their father anymore!

Seriously because what- "GROOOOOVY!~" He almost lost his balance on the tree he was standing on.

He looked startled from side to side and then down in search of the source of the voice, looking down. Seeing a pink Griffon with blue eyes waving at him with a huge smile.

"hmm? Who are you?" Grover asked with his head turned to the side. The question made her smile immediately drop to an expression of exaggerated sadness as she looked to her side. For another griffon, this time it had black fur, its furless face was gray in color and its left eye was scarred from top to bottom.

"He forgot about me...?? His dear aunt???" She asked dramatically as she shook him, holding him by the armor she wore. "He forgot about me, Gerlach!" She cried sadly in his ear.

"That's what it looks like, Gabriela." He responded by keeping his expression comically serious in the face of the jolts. Something that made Grover chuckle cutely as he flicked his paws on the branch, then looked away in curiosity.

"An aunt? What's that?" That made the pink Griffon stop shaking the other noble, the poor guy having all his feathers messed up and his helmet aside. She looked at the boy and made a friendly smile.

"An aunt... Would be your father's sister..." Ena then paused scratching her head as she realized her mistake. "But I'm actually his cousin... But call me aunt, it's easier!" She ended her failed attempt at explanation with a clap of her palm and grip with her claws, only earning a lost look from Grover and a facepalm from Gerlach.

'What an excellent introduction Gabriela.'

"She's from your father's family." Gerlach oversimplified for Gabriela's happiness, the little heir looked up with an understanding expression and swooped down from the branch, flapping his little wings and gliding in front of them.

"Hello! I'm Grover! Or Junior if you prefer!" He extended his small arm with a genuine smile out of his beak as he flew up to match the adults' height.

Gerlach surprised Gabriela by returning with a weak smile. Accepting the handshake.

Factories screamed as their machinery worked, troops with their blue eyes that glowed in the dark, their black shells absorbing the light from outside. Giving a demonic and frightening appearance.

Marching in unity, thousands of these beings marched together, the thump of their hooves making a rumble that reverberated through the whole city, or rather the whole hive-city.

In front of kilometers and kilometers of identical and regulated houses, patrolled by constant guards and vehicles. A gigantic palace stood at the center of it all. And at the center of it all, on a throne at the center of the palace stood a gigantic figure compared to her peers, with an even greater power stored within.

Ruler and despot of all Changelings, unifier of the tribes, and conqueror of Vraks; Chrysalis.

Her authority was supreme and unquestioned, her intellect unparalleled and her strength unchallenged.

Even with all those titles and the strength of her armies, she had already been defeated once, a scar that brought her a lot of shame and anger. But revenge would come, with the unification of the tribes. Even while the Throraxians were being found and executed one by one, Thorax himself was still on the run. But in constant flight, he was no real threat.

Sitting on her throne, she thought about her future plans. While even the temptation to expand her power outside its borders was extremely tempting, the country still had too many internal problems for her to think about to really plan territorial expansions.

For instance, the political crisis was still far from over, if she doesn't end Thorax as soon as possible, it could cause internal conflicts that could bring destruction and economic stagnation. And that she couldn't allow, he's the top priority. Then she thinks about the other minor problems she should solve.

An example would be the armed forces, which have recently abandoned old military tactics and practices. The reforms were still being absorbed by many army veterans and taught to new officers.

In the old days, their race used swarm tactics on enemies, using their numerical advantage and strength of their carapace to completely overwhelm the enemy and destroy their front lines in exchange for massive casualties. But now with the innovation of warfare, these tactics had to change. Tanks, armored cars, and fighter jets were the future. That Hivemarshall Trimmel assured her that this would be the pinnacle of military efficiency and effectiveness. Despite her doubts, she had given him the authority to lead such reforms, even though he was one of the few Oberst who had not failed her miserably in Canterlot.

But from all these internal and external problems. Of all her future plans and ambitions, it wasn't what plagued her mind. And yes, the Attache of the Griffons.

To make their necessary reforms in armored vehicles, they needed to test their efficiency and possible defects in design, but in the internal situation they found themselves, Chrysalis never found a decent solution to all the problems in the country, until a Griffin Empire diplomat walked into her palace.

This gave her an idea, asking and receiving permission to send an Attache to the Griffons. The Agreement was simple. Changelings with their superior technology would help improve the empire's tanks and in return, they would receive feedback and experience. A practical agreement for both sides.

Now, the same diplomat was in the palace again, letter in hand and kneeling before her throne in audience.

With a tight squeeze of her eyes trying to contain her frustration at being interrupted, she motioned with her front hoof for him to proceed without speaking.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." He would thank her as he stood up, pulling a roll of paper from his bag and handing it to the queen, who with her unceremonious magic took it and brought it to her.

Upon opening it, she began to read the message; Right away she could see that the handwriting was decent, but she could point out a few spelling mistakes and a lot of errors in accentuation. It reminded her a lot of the writing of many teenagers. It wasn't even good for a college student and she didn't know how such a level of writing had slipped into such an important document meant for a monarch.

She cast a glance at the diplomat, who still kept his gaze on the floor. Not coming out of your kneeling position.

She swallowed her monumental urge to snap the diplomat right there for such an insult. But her curiosity got the better of her, and she decided to ignore the errors and read the message in full.

"Hello queen of the bug people!-" This made her raise an eyebrow, she would be offended if it came from any other empire, but the Griffons always did everything to give her the due respect she deserved. That was way out of character for Grover to call her that.

"I'm Grover! Sixth to be exact! My daddy's son who's fifth! But you can call me junior, my dad talks a lot about you, so you clearly must be a good person!" That did took her by surprise and back for a second, the sixth? Grover's two-year-old son? Impossible! He should barely know how to walk at such an age, let alone speak. How could the kid already know how to write?

If he were a Changeling it would make a lot more sense, even though queens are a class with extremely long lives, some being able to achieve immortality depending on the amount of love collected in their lifetime. The working class was the exact opposite, having very short lives; between 30 to 40 years.

Even though with nursing technology and healing techniques increased the lifespan of a Changeling to have the same lifespan as a common pony, their short life at first caused them to adapt their race so that offspring were born with considerable intellect and with the ability to absorb very easy teachings.

But that wasn't the same for many other races, Pony's and Griffons, for example, their people had much longer lifespans. As a result, they were born very dependent on their parents and with greater difficulties in teaching and learning, requiring almost 20 years to reach the necessary maturity to reach adulthood and become productive members of society.

Changelings, on the other hand, needed only 5 to 7 years for their offspring to reach maturity and be able to work.

But was it possible? There were prodigies in all species that were born from time to time and showed intellectual levels that completely dominated all their peers. She could perhaps be wrong, even though her pride wouldn't allow her to admit it.

'A good person..? What a lovely boy.' She thought with a light chuckle.

"You really helped my people! So I wanted to show my gratitude by inviting you to my 3rd birthday!" She snickered upon reading this, what an innocent boy. Adorable but a waste of time. Why would she care?

"Of course it would be rude for me to ask a lady for something without giving something in return! Dad says it's common courtesy of a monarch to offer something along with invitations to important events!" This caught her attention.

"I first wanted to give you something to eat, I love to eat! But I didn't know what to give you, but when I asked my father I discovered that you eat love! Very strange but very cool!" That... It wasn't a reaction she would have expected from the boy... But she continued.

"I asked for help from some of the Changelings who are here and when they heard that it was for you, they helped me with great enthusiasm! You must be very loved!" She couldn't help herself in puffing her chest out in pride as she read this. Of course, she was loved, she was Chrysalis! The unifier of the Changelings! How not to love a being as magnificent as her?

"They were very surprised when I volunteered and they were quite annoyed trying to get me to change my mind, but it's my responsibility to please my future allies! It was a really funny feeling and I felt a little down afterward. But as a future Emperor I have to please my allies!" Her eyes widened as she read this, he really meant it. He really wanted to give her love, his love!

"His love...?" She couldn't contain her surprise and exclaimed hesitantly. She would never think that an outsider would think of giving up self-love like that without hesitation.

Almost as if it were a sign. The Diplomat stood up, catching the queen's attention. He again dug his claw into his bag and withdrew something, a franc with a pinkish liquid.

But the color wasn't what caught her eye. It was her glow.

It was so radiant and powerful, so clear and pure. A glow that could overshadow the brightest of days, and when taken out of the bag, it's glow completely dominated the entire room.

She instinctively got up and walked towards the vial, and with her magic, she grabbed it and brought it towards her, then returned to reading.

"I'm solving two problems with one solution! Following the gift-giving tradition, and following my father's advice! 'If you want to invite a beautiful lady, you owe her a great gift'. So I did! I count on your presence!

-Signed by, Grover Von Greifenstein the Sixth."

It was an obviously poorly made letter, when exchanging messages with another monarch you didn't count every step of your decision-making or your thinking, you were direct and precise. Dictating your intentions and benefits. Still, Chrysalis couldn't get a thing out of her head. Something that couldn't help in making the color change in her now blushing face.

'Beautiful...Lady...?'

She returned her gaze to the glowing pink bottle. One of the purest and tastiest types of love; family love. Changelings would kill to get even a drop of love with such quality. And the brat had given her a whole bottle.

'Little Bloody flatterer.' She couldn't contain her smile as she tried to hide her flushed face with her hoof. 'Heh, you got a deal kid.'

Her gaze returned to the kneeling diplomat. "Griffon." His eyes left the floor and met those of Chrysalis. "Tell your little emperor I accept the invitation."

'Little Grover, you have my undivided attention.'

8 - Hopeless

The moonlight dominated the skies of Griffenheim, the birthday of the heir to the royal house was already coming to an end after the blowing of candles and the cutting of the cake with the claws of the birthday boy.

The guests had already left, many having already managed to reform their political alliances or start new ones, making some agreements or simply socializing with long-time relatives, the party was a discreet and legitimate way for many of the most important figures of the Empire to get together and do their machinations right under the Emperor's nose without creating suspicion.

Or so they believed. Not thinking that the priests and their 'purity' would care about politics or that many of the nobles participating in these alliances and agreements were double agents.

Gabriela and Eros were on constant watch, their agents keen to defend the throne against corruption and betrayal, many of those caught being blacklisted for possible future imprisonment or blackmail. But Grover didn't know that, the only thing he did know was that he'd had one of the best days of his entire little life. The day he spent with Chrysalis was a lot of fun. He'd learned so much from the changeling queen that he could barely handle so much information, spending hours and hours just talking to her.

She was like Gabriela and Eros merged into one person, she was smart, calm, and very friendly. While he was talking to her, there were times when he talked above her in excitement, or talked too much and even accidentally fell into her huge (and very soft and comfortable) tail. But she didn't mind either moment. Even when some of her guards turned out to be okay… Protectors on many occasions, she came to Grover's defense quickly.

She was the best, just like many of the Changelings in the palace talked about her and more. She was admired by those who obeyed her, she was affectionate with her actions and kind with her words. Worse still, even with so much time talking to her and making the most of the day's conversation, they hadn't even gotten to half of what Grover wanted to discuss with her.

Now he was exhausted and wanted to go to bed, that was exactly what he had asked for, but Chrysalis surprised him when she picked him up and placed him on her back, squeezed and protected between her enormous wings.

He insisted and insisted that he go alone, not wanting to bother Chrysalis anymore who had not only spent the entire party alone with him but was now kind enough to take him to his room.

"Chryssy.... I appreciate it, but you don't have to-"

"How many times do I have to repeat Grovy? For you. I don't mind at all." She cut the small one on her back with an affectionate tone and a smile.

"I already told you to stop calling me that!" He snorted his cheeks adorably, the changeling queen only chuckling in response.

"Only if you stop calling me Chryssy!"

"What if I don't, hmm? What are you going to do about it??" He challenged her playfully. She just rolled her eyes.

"So you'll still be my little Grovy!~" She laughed out loud as Grover crossed his arms and looked away sullenly.

"I don't like it! You're so evil Chryssy!" He whined

She let out an exaggerated, dramatic gasp." I can't believe it! You don't like me?? How can I live like this?" As she threw her head back with the back of her hand against her forehead. "I thought you were my friend! How can you betray me like that?? I think i might pass out!"

Grover not realizing the obvious acting and fake drama dropped his petty sulk to one of complete concern. "C-Chryssy?? S-sorry!! I didn't think-! I... No-" He would be answered with Chrysalis laughing in his face again.

"Oh my god! You're so easy to tease!" She was still laughing hard to the frustration of the little one on her back.

"Chryssy!! You're really, really mean!"

He didn't know why, but he felt an enormous familiarity with her, even though he spent very little time compared to many of her family members he felt he could trust her.

The walk through the halls followed in comfortable silence after Chrysalis's laughter subsided.

He smiled as he looked at the back of Chrysalis, he was sad that she wouldn't be with him, but she was a monarch also just like his father. She must have had a lot of people to take care of, and he understood why. But it was still frustrating that she had to go.

His dad couldn't talk or play with him on his birthday, he was sad about it, but at least she was there to stay with him while dad was busy.

He didn't blame his father for not having time to do as many things as he wanted. But it still frustrated him. It was his birthday! He should give at least an hour of his time to talk to him.

he was exhausted. And he just wanted to go to sleep.

Fortunately, he could already see the door halfway down the hall. That when opening it would take him to the destination he so desired. His wonderful bed.

"Okay, you can drop me here. I can get in-"

"No no! I insist!" She laughed over the top as she opened the door, her wings lifting and blocking Grover from leaving, who was a little stunned by her action.

Some of the griffon guards following them stiffened from the action, but Grover lifted one of his claws to indicate that everything was fine. Letting her carry him into her room.

As she closed the door behind her, Grover's childish smile faded. "Chryssy..."

"Yes dear?"

"Why lie to me?"

Her eyes widened at this. Feeling her back lighten as Grover leapt to the ground. Him walking slowly to her bed and not turning to face her or waiting for an answer.

"Lie to you Grovy? I would never-"

"You did it again." He cut her again, this time turning his body to face her.

On the outside she didn't show but her curiosity shot up to see his eyes meet hers. Cold and curious.

"You say one thing and your body screams the opposite." He had turned completely to face her. "When something irritates you, I see your pupils narrow." He emphasized what he was saying as he pointed one of his claws at his own eye. The little griffon jumped onto its back and sat on the bed, crossing its paws. "When you say something that isn't what you truly mean it, your body stiffens for a second and a half. Not to mention your smile fails too."

'Incredible.' He was three years old, and he could see through her mask in less than a day. Hundreds of years and multitude of emotional manipulations and dominations, and one child managed to discover it? 'hehe, I'm getting rusty.'

"Please Chryssy. If you want something, you can tell me." He let out an affectionate smile, even though he kept those cold eyes. "I don't know about you, but I like to keep my promises."

She just kept silent, her surprise no longer able to be contained on her face. But surprise of her fading as quickly as it came. "I... You're right Grovy... I did want something from you...." He turned his head to the side in curiosity in an adorable way as she approached him. "Your love."

"My love?" He raised an eyebrow at that.

"Yes, your love. It was one of the best I've tasted in a long time. So sweet, so familiar.... So... Tasty...." She described as she took his claws in hers and squeezed. He looked at that action and then returned his eyes to hers. "Please... Give me more..."

"Sure, no problem."

She blinked a few times in surprise, again.

"Just like that? You aren't gonna ask why i am asking for it or how-"

"Chryssy-" He cut her off again. This time with an expression of annoyance. "I'm sleepy, do you want my love or not?"

She looked at him in surprise as he lifted his head and closed his eyes in anticipation. He hadn't even hesitated to give her his love.

'If all ponies were like this... How many problems would have been solved already.' She thought with a sigh. Her body would be overpowered by an explosion of green fire.

Gone was the beautiful and slender Griffon, now she stood in front of Grover was the queen of the changelings in her true form, the pony-like creature with a twisted unicorn horn, a pair of tattered insectoid wings, and stands as tall as the biggest diamond empire dogs. If the little emperor was small before, now he was a dwarf in comparison. In addition, she has a sharp pair of fangs and dark green eyes with elongated oval pupils with teal mane and tail, blue-green chitinous plating over her midsection.

Lowering her head, she pressed her horn to Grover's chest. Upon contact, his entire body would glow in a strong pink aura, which shone like a huge lantern. 'So much love, all mine!' She thought with a maniacal smile. Then with a hickey, all that aura would be sucked into her mouth and would eat up all the love with enormous satisfaction.

By sucking all the boy's aura, she would belch and put a hoof in her mouth in shame. She was absolutely bloated, even with her reserves being monumental compared to any regular drone, she was full. How can such a small child carry so much love?

Grover then practically collapsed on the bed, Chrysalis having to hold the boy up so he wouldn't hit his head on the edge. Putting him on the bed slowly and pulling the covers over him.

'This boy... He gave me enough love to support me for the next 5 months... That shouldn't be possible...' She looked at the little griffon who was passed out in a deep sleep. 'And he gave without questioning, without worrying or hesitating.. He trusted me...'

This was rare, racism against Changelings was prevalent even in Griffonia due to their completely alien nature and way of feeding. Taking someone's love was like ripping a limb from the person, taking something invisible but absolutely vital to every living being. Forcing them to adapt to a way of life of deception and constant betrayals, bringing even more prejudice and fear.

Even so, even though he was constantly manipulated and lied to.... He still gave her love....

"Why…? What made you give something so important for so little?"

"This is something an abomination like you doesn't deserve and never will." A voice interfered with her thoughts. "Friendship."

She looked at the door in surprise at the new voice and came across someone she hadn't expected to cross paths with.

"Emperor Grover." The Changeling Queen exclaimed in a low but still curious tone. "I didn't expect you here...."

"Did you expect me to leave my son alone with a parasite like you? Fat chance." He growled at the queen who only raised an eyebrow at the insults.

He slowly walked towards the bed, while she started to walk towards the door. All the way, none taking their eyes off each other.

They started walking in a circle, one following the other but never getting too close.

"I have no malicious intentions with your son, I assure you." She tried to use diplomacy, her face betraying her words as she showed a smirk with her fangs.

"Cut your empty words, they won't work for me." He rejected her attempt with contempt, making her just roll her eyes. "I saw what you did to my son, do you think you'll get away with stealing one of the most valuable things I have?"

She raised an eyebrow, her smile changing to a mocking "Stealing? Honey, that was a gift from me." Their dance had stopped, with one facing each other now with a tiny distance separating them. None accepting back down. "And he'll give me more...."

"More? I've seen how much you've taken from him and I know the consequences of those your love is sucked out of." He looked at his son with concern, returning to Chrysalis in hatred. "You and your kind are not going to take the only valuable thing I have in this empire"

"Please the few who suffer side effects-"

"I. Don't. Care." He cut in with a tone of finality. "You will turn around now to leave this room, and you will never set foot in this palace again."

Grover was giving no room for argument or explanation by the queen. He didn't care about her reasons or her species plight, he saw only a threat to his son.

And threats were eliminated without mercy.

The Emperor had watched them since the beginning of the party, Chrysalis never acted like that. The Queen of Changelings was imposing, she was cold and intolerant. Any mistakes, no matter how small in her presence or failure to properly address her, were punished brutally.

But there she was, accepting a nickname his son had given her, something she would consider one of the greatest forms of desecration.

It was there that he knew immediately that she was somehow interested in his son, whether romantic or materialistic. The father didn't know which of the two would worry him more.

But now he had the answer he'd suspected. And he stood between her and his son.

"I see you won't listen anyway. But I'm patient, and I'll be back in no time." She gave the emperor a toothy grin, indirectly defying him.

He narrowed his eyes at her in return, grinding his beak in hatred. "Do you really think I'll allow it?"

She just widened her smile in response. "Not when you're in your grave." She cackled as she saw the shock on the Emperor's face, realizing in the words finally sunk in the Emperor. "You don't have much more time little birdie."

She was turning on him, and he inadvertently began to sweat with tension, feeling himself now prey to a gigantic monster that surrounded him, his expectant eyes gleaming in the darkness of the room.

"I noticed it, your son too. Even now you struggle to stay still without shaking, I notice that you feel pain and discomfort constantly." Her snake tongue danced before his sneering face. "Poor little bird that can't fly, what do you have? Two? Three more years?"

"More than enough." He tried to keep a tough face, but that only caused more debauched laughter.

"Poor thing! No time left, while I... I have all the time in the world." He tried to ignore her taunts, but she wasn't wrong. He was dying, no good lie he or the doctors came could hide that fact. "And when you die, your poor little son will be alone..."

She circled Grover who had his eyes fixed on the floor.

"Everyone close to him, Eros, Gabriela and Gerlach. They'll be too busy killing each other for power. Backstabbing, bribbing and exterminating everyone for the regency and not paying attention to the most important thing." She stopped behind Grover, maintaining her snake-like smile. "How deep will he go down, I wonder?"

His claws dug into the wooden floor, unable to contain his anger.

"Maybe he'll run to me, his dear friend Chryssy~"

Grover snapped.

Consequences be damned, alliances be damned. In total fury, he threw himself at the Changeling Queen, who only had time to widen her eyes in complete surprise. Being thrown at the wall and pinned by the furious Emperor's arm letting out a yelp of pain as she hit her back against the wall.

"Nhaaa.... Y-you are pretty straightfoward~" She ran her serpentine tongue across her mouth seductively at the furious griffon, who only reciprocated by pressing harder.

He hated it, this feeling of weakness and hopelessness, knowing the future he awaited for his son and not being able to do anything about it. Seeing this hideous creature taking advantage of the situation to turn his son into a mere puppet.

That mere action had nearly knocked him unconscious from the monumental effort from his weak and decaying body of slamming the creature into the wall, but he fought to stand his ground in the face of this predator. For showing weakness meant giving her more ammunition and determination to touch his most precious possession.

But the tranquility on her face made him furious.

All of this was a game to her. And even trapped in the wall, she still felt in control of the situation.

She didn't feel threatened.

"Hehe, you really care about the little one huh?" He did not answer. Just silently staring at her.

Letting out a long breath he released her from the wall, pulling his claws out and turning and walking towards his son's bed. Ignoring the huge smile that Chrysalis was shooting him the entire time.

"What's the problem big guy? Threw me against the wall and didn't even have the courage to kiss me?~"

He just let out a frustrated sigh as he stroked his son's head feathers affectionately. "Get out."

She left while cackling evilly, already content after playing with the Emperor's feelings who was too physically and mentally exhausted to care.

'So many problems.... My empress... My love... What do I do...?' He thought in frustration, his claws gripping his son's blanket. 'My child in danger... Being used...'

Tears of hate threatened to run down his face. 'And i not being able to do ANYTHING ABOUT IT!'

'Why??? How can i be such a bad father?' He thought in absolute hatred, not for the nobles who tried to take advantage. Not from the Changeling Queen. But of himself.

Of how much his son deserved better, how much he neglected the little boy just to pass one useless legislation after another. To please one ambitious and greedy noble after another.

'Why am I so useless to even get around with this pathetic body of mine??'

Grover hated himself. He hated not being able to work properly, to having to walk with help, to not being able to play with his son.

'Why... I'm so... Weak...?' He buried his face between the blankets of his son, who was sleeping peacefully beside him. Anger turned to hate, and from hate to sadness all in the span of 50 seconds. His tears could no longer be contained and ran down his feathers like a waterfall and staining the entire blanket.

'What do I do?? What do I do??' The Father thought in utter despair, being lost and absolutely hopeless. Feeling he doomed his son to a lone future threatened by enemies all around him.

9 - Reaching the Dawn with a Claw

A Griffon wearing the uniform of the Griffon Empire while wielding a huge flamethrower was looking out over the heavily guarded northern border between the Grand Duchy of Feathisia and the former Duchy of Cloudbury, the now illegitimate territories of the Griffonian Republic. His gaze saddens as the endless lines of refugees fleeing the barbarian land of the north crowded the small checkpoints of the imperial borders.

After the decline of the Empire, many regions declared their independence by ambitious lords and dukes deluded with a future of glory commanded by their respective houses. Many of those only spawned more chaos and anarchy, giving room for revolutionaries and rioters to completely dominate their respective regions and expand the violence even more.

Cloudbury was one of them.

A region weak from years of dependence on the empire, had been one of the duchies most affected by the decline, with a lack of allies in the north and a total absence of local forces for defense, it was totally overrun by republican forces in their desperate retreat after their failed revolution in 978. Who had the support of the hungry population fresh with the ideals of the revolution.

But with the ensuing peace the dust settled, the republicans who were a vast assemblage of republicans, communists, anarchists, exiles, criminals, former Imperial divisions, and existing residents of the mountains. Completely split.

Generals acted like warlords, plundering the lands and abusing their power as they pleased. The Left Revolutionaries completely broke apart from their former comrades after Kemerskai suspended the constitution. That already were disillusioned with the barbaric attitudes of predominant generals toward the locals, was the last straw for them. Considering the 'Griffonian Republic' a rogue state.

So they seceded their former comrades in the revolution and created the Republic of Skynavia, based on the principles of libertarian, democratic socialism. Further increasing infighting in the north.

"Nice place.." A deep but calm voice comes from behind him, calling his attention.

A figure came up while using the shadows formed from the rays of light coming from the moon. With his gray military coat and pinned medals, a Griffon officer. His unique snow-white fur, and blood-red eyes piercing the corporal with a cold and calculating gaze.

"Oberleutnant!" He saluted while putting his big weapon over his shoulder.

"Stabsgefreiter, at ease." The officer waved his hand at him while looking curiously at his weapon. "Still using that old thing?"

He looked at his weapon with fondness written over his face. "I know it may be more than a decade old and with short range. But this little baby..." He said with a smile while patting the tubed weapon. "Saved my life on more than one occasion."

"I expected you to have already burned yourself with such an unreliable thing." He joked with a deadpan face. His comrade just laughed while putting his flamethrower on his shoulder, he watched as his officer walked over and sat down beside him. "What brings you here sir?"

"Heinrich, I told you, you don't have to go all that 'sir' shit with me. We are fellow officers, Just my name is enough." He complained with a sigh, putting his left claw in his pocket and pulling out a pack of cigarettes.

The empire's military officers could each be different, with doctrines they believed in and training styles they used on their subordinates. But Dawnclaw was different.

Heinrich was afraid of the officer not because he was cruel, but because he was unpredictable. He was prone to outbursts of rage over the smallest of inconveniences but in return. He was one of the most fanatical patriots he ever met, this griffon would do anything for the empire and had already thrown himself into danger more than once alongside his soldiers for that.

He was an enigma, a man fair to his fellows when he wanted to, but also a being with an absolute lack of empathy for anyone who showed positive feelings for anyone outside the empire.

"Yes si- I mean, yes Ferdinand." He coughed into his fisted claws and looked away in embarrassment as he received his superior's glare. "Sorry, old habits die hard." He laughed awkwardly. "Again, what brings you here?"

He for a moment received no verbal response. But one with its claw, his former commander asked him to come closer. And the corporal obliged.

Dawnclaw then crouched down and brought his face close to the soldier's flamethrower. Tucking one of his claws into the pocket of his uniform and pulling out a pack of cigarettes. He gave his soldier a look, still not budging from his position.

He returned the look of his superior with one of confusion.

The white griffon then poked the flamethrower with the same claw he was holding the cigarette pack with. The soldier broke out of confusion and hurriedly activated the flames from his flamethrower.

The Officer then nodded to him, pleased, and lit his pack. Sitting down next to the fellow officer and sighing a jet of smoke.

"Smoking in peace.... The officers' quarters are in chaos with the revolution taking place in Aquileia, I just want some calm for now."

"Yeah... I'm hearing that both Republicans and Royalists are using the guillotine to execute traitors... The stories give me chills in my feathers." He received a scoff from Dawnclaw

"Nothing surprising. I expected that those who stepped out of Griffenheim's light would start acting like a bunch of savages." The soldier looked conflicted with what Ferdinand was saying, which made the officer look at him with a bored face. "Don't you realize how much everything has started to fall apart since the empire began its decline and fragmentation?"

The officer just received a curious look, as if asking him to clarify.

"It all started because of that bastard…" It snarled its beak as its claw trembled with rage. "Kamerskai had appeared with his pathetic ambition to steal the crown for himself. He fucking deserves to be skinned alive for the transgression of going back from the grace of our empire" The soldier raised his eyebrows as Dawnclaw blew out another puff of smoke.

"Steal the crown? But he didn't want to form a republic…?" The officer with his white fur looked at his companion beside him with a look of offense.

"The Republic? Do you really think that's what he cares about?" He scoffed again as he took a drag on his cigarette. "She's just a foil to that warlord's ambitions."

"I... I don't understand...."

Dawnclaw heaved a long impatient sigh, and dropped his cigarette on the floor, stomping and crushing it under his leonine paw. "Dictatorship, Heinrich, a fucking dictatorship. That's what I mean."

The corporal's eyes widened, nervousness evident in his body. "With our lord getting weaker and weaker.... Do you think he would try to become the empero-"

"Don't you DARE finish that sentence." Dawnclaw was glaring at him, her scarlet irises giving her a demonic look in her rage, gleaming in the reflected moonlight.

If looks could kill, the corporal would already be dead.

"Y-y-yes si-i mean Dawnclaw!" He shouted and immediately got into a stiff military pose instinctively.

The officer only gave a dismissive look, but he closed his eyes and leaned back against the wall. Taking out another pack of cigarettes and puts it back in his mouth, this time taking a lighter out of his other pocket and lighting it.

The Soldier let out a sigh of relief as he relaxed and wiped his forehead with his claws.

"Your wife sent a letter." The Soldier immediately shot his head up in utter surprise.

"Hanna?? So soon?" Dawnclaw just nodded his head as he blew out another puff of smoke, giving his subordinate a sideways glance.

"Congratulations on the hatching. She's a girl." He put his free claw in his backpack that was lying on the floor leaning against the wall they were leaning against, pulling out a letter.

Slowly he walked over to his soldier, handing him over to him who was still frozen in shock.

"I... I don't know what to say..." He would be shocked when Dawnclaw patted the soldier twice on the shoulder and gave him a slight smile.

"Enjoy your leave. And don't forget to come back in three days. Or I'll put you through hell." The Soldier gave a shudder of fear at how grinning he looked as he promised to do push-ups until he died, or worse. But he couldn't help his smile and tremble of emotion as he held the letter in his two claws.

Dawnclaw then calmly walked around the soldier and walked back towards the officer's quarters.

"Ferdinand." He stopped. Turning his gaze back, the soldier looked up at the officer with happiness and tears in his eyes. "Thank you very much indeed... I don't know how you managed to convince the other commanders... But you have my deepest gratitude." He wiped his eyes quickly, not wanting to further humiliate himself in front of his commander or show any more weakness. "Whatever you need, me and my squad will be there for you!"

The albino Officer just let out a friendly smile. "Don't worry Heinrich, I'll use his favor." He resumed walking towards the officer quarters with a feral smile creeping across his face. 'Soon, very soon.'

His figure disappeared as it had appeared through the shadows, leaving behind a cheering soldier with happiness and hopes for the future. Not knowing the truth behind the act of kindness.

He opened his eyes.

Ice cold, was how he felt.

Standing up he looked at his surroundings, almost his entire face was underwater, only his eyes and beak sticking out. When he sat down, the water was only up to his waist, and he found himself in a very shallow lake. It was reddish black, reminding him a little of the wine that many nobles always drank when talking to his father.

Looking at her body, he didn't see her cream fur. Soiled with a liquid that had a dark red color, very similar to the one he sat in but was clearly different.

Lifting his claws and withdrawing them from the lake, he would see the red liguid running down his dirty feathers and dancing around his claw to its tip and splashing into the lake.

As he watched the droplet touch the vast, shallow lake, he could see the small round wave that formed upon its impact. Which dispersed among the huge liquid mass.

It was then that it dawned on him.

That wasn't wine, it was blood. Blood that was clearly not his.

He had already seen this liquid coming out of him when he cut his palm between the claws by accident, his father showed enormous concern for him. Something that comes from within all beings, one of the most important things of life that can be spurted out so easily.

And it flowed through him, through his claws. Covering his entire body and paws, that sea of blood followed as far as the horizon could reach.

But the sky was not bluish like the sea or dark like the vast outer space, but a purple color surrounded by a black veil that dominated the entire sky. The sun and moon kept overshadowing each other in what looked like a battle for dominance of day and night.

An eclipse.

Looking around, it was obvious what was going on.

'A dream...'

This was supposed to be impossible, the little white things his father gave him made all dreams disappear. Giving him a deep, empty sleep.

This wasn't supposed to happen.

The heir would rather be dreamless than tormented by the things he saw on the other side.

He never had the heart to tell his father, he didn't want to worry him any more than he should. Especially with something as small as little nightmares.

It was Dad who needed worry.

But now he could not reflect on these problems anymore, as this demonstrated a new problem. He was able to reason, to think.

In a dream.

This made him even tenser. Dreams that he could do things, or 'lucid' dreams as the adults called them, were the worst.

Usually, when he dreams of those strange beings, he was a passenger on a chaotic train. Being able to witness everything but as a spectator, he liked those dreams, he felt like he was watching a weird scene in a book and he could actually enjoy what he was watching. The lucid ones are when everything changed.

He was there, he saw it all happen. Acting like he was part of it.

And in none of them did he come to a good nor happy end.

He only had three of these dreams in all of his life, all in a body that wasn't his and all of which he was attacked; One, a group of those things wore what looked like blankets around their bodies as they came at him with small knives, coming out of the darkness and attacking him, he fell to the ground and dropped what looked like a golden mask. Another was very quick, but still terrifying, with him in the middle of a huge chaos of what looked like a huge fight. Men wearing purple fighting other gray ones. He just saw a man coming with a huge ax and swinging it down with the intention of hitting him.

Both of those were scary as hell, he woke up terrified not knowing what to do. But they were quick, like a quick cut to the finger, it hurt but it ended just as fast as it started.

The last was the one he had more trouble forgetting about.

Explosions saw all around, he was in a hole without understanding absolutely anything. Inside of what looked like a building, he could see out through the window a veritable kingdom of Marr. Or similar to the stories he heard.

A city in ruins as screams came from the skies. Bombs fell as popping noises hit all around.

But something stood out in the gray of the whole scene. A red flag was raised and flew from one of the biggest of all buildings. As screams followed this.

Black silhouettes dominated the streets, their red eyes reflecting on a sunny day, and even with the sun in the sky, it was impossible to see the true figure of the creatures that dominated the streets. Screams of what sounded like a celebration, while others of sheer terror with those on the streets roaring in delight, showing their predatory teeth while saliva came out of their mouths in the middle of their shouting.

All these dreams he woke up thrashing and screaming from his crib next to his father. Who always came running to soothe him between his clutches.

He did not understand, why these dreams?? What did they mean? What did the gods want in revealing this to him?

That had gone on long enough, he needed answers. He needed someone who knows how to talk to the gods, he needs his grandfather.

Eros always said the gods were everything, they were the absolute truth. If they were everything, then they were the ones who created such nightmares.

But now he could only walk on his two feet, looking around in utter confusion, lost and aimless in the face of that endless lake and the solar eclipse.

A noise. A sound breaking the absolute silence that have been plaguing the dream. It was faint, but it was there, if everything hadn't been so quiet he wouldn't have noticed.

Another and another.

Pop, pop, pop.

Looking at his legs where the sounds originated, he saw bubbles bursting, one every second, but gradually increasing.

Eyes came out of the water, making the emperor let out a cry of despair and falling backwards, making a huge 'splash' and a new wave of blood fly to all sides and dirty him even more.

In front of him, having emerged a gigantic Griffon. Her eyes slowly lowered to him, Grover could barely close and open his mouth. His eyes completely bug out.

"D-dad??"

But he paid no attention to the little Grover and neither to his exclamation, letting out a snarl as he walked forward, with his huge claw he grabbed the child who let out a yelp in fright.

He then slowly placed it over his furry head in complete confusion while he started walking.

This was all happening so fast. Was that his father? Why was he so big?

It was then that he realized, his father was not wearing any clothes, not even his crown. Instead he had a huge metal chain strapped around his neck, chest and upper limbs.

In it he was pulling a huge coffin.

'Why... What does that mean...?'

He could see how much his father suffered to carry the huge coffin, he pulled hard but walked for just a few meters, the more force he did the more he grunted. Trembling with every little movement he made, but refusing to stop.

"Dad, please don't try so hard. You'll only hurt yourself more." But the giant ignored him, it didn't even look like he had heard. "Dad?"

Again he ignored him, he was focused on only one thing. Take the coffin.

'What was that coffin carrying anyway...?' Looking back he could just catch a glimpse of an orange and cream squared symbol, but it was small and in the upper middle. Was it a body...? He had already seen a burial from above the palace, but up close... It gave a sad feeling.

"Dad, what are you carrying-" He was cut off as something imploded from the waters beside him, causing him to jump in fright and immediately cower in the giant's fur.

"Right! Right! Right!" A new voice was screaming, like the cries of a bird. Peering out, he saw an eagle flapping its wings near them, its brown-white fur showing age.

"Wh-what....?" He barely had time to think when the same thing happened on his other side, this time a pink eagle.

She proceeded to fly to the opposite side of the other who kept repeating her scream for one direction.

"Left! Left! Left!" The Pink Eagle proceeded to scream as well repeatedly, its screams sounded feminine compared to the bulk of the older one.

'Left....? Right....? Are they targeting us? But why opposite paths?' He looked confused, but got a surprised expression at looking more closely at the two new arrivals. 'Auntie? Grampa?'

The only answer he got was from his father, who came to an abrupt halt. The giant didn't seem to have heard the two eagles screaming, but now he was showing physical discomfort. His limbs trembling and swaying.

"Dad..?" he asked, rubbing the fur on the giant's head. Who still showed no response to his son's touches.

Without warning, he fell to the ground, sending Grover tumbling with him, flying off his head and landing in the shallows with a 'splash'.

He got up quickly and looked at his father. Fallen and motionless.

"DAD!" He got up and quickly ran on his two paws, dropping to his knees and stroking his face. "Dad, are you okay??"

What was happening?? He was doing so well, he didn't show any pain or any problems!

The chains now that he saw closer were completely scarring his father, bruises and sores showing on the parts he used to pull.

'Oh my god... Why all this effort?? He never showed any pain or any sign of discomfort! He should be fine! He has to be fine!'

But his eyes didn't lie, his father was hurt, he has suffered and scarred himself forever just to carry that weight on his back.

Why? Why would he go to such lengths? And why he never asked for help? Why he did all of it alone?

"Dad?" He still didn't answer.

He wasn't moving, he wasn't even breathing. He didn't make any movement.

"Father, please answer me! Please!"

The only answer little grover got was his father slowly sinking the same way he had come out, from the sea of blood that stained them.

In desperation, the little boy desperately tried to hold his father, a futile attempt not to lose him, to have him at least a little longer with him.

It was just a dream, but he couldn't just let it go, nothing mattered at that moment.

But he was too heavy...

He could only watch in utter shock as his father was swallowed up into that endless crimson river. His form slowly sinking through the ground.

"YOU HAVE TO GO RIGHT/LEFT! RIGHT!/LEFT!" The screams of the two continued even though their father had already lost all his strength, even though he had completely disappeared in the sea of blood.

'Just stop...'

His screams just continued, dominating the scene that previously remained in total silence. Grover closed his eyes and tried to cover his ears.

"Stop...."

But his request was totally ignored, being muffled before those beings who simply refused him to give a voice.

"STOP!" With a huge scream, the waters around him vibrated with the rumble of his voice, small waves forming and completely cutting off the roars of the petulant beings that irritated the little heir.

Finally, the silence he didn't know he would miss came once again.

But now the eyes of the beings left the location where his father had disappeared and were now firmly fixed on the boy. With Hungry eyes.

He took a step back, his utter irritation having been replaced by fear.

In his hatred, he had totally forgotten the size of those beings, and that of his father. The only thing able to fend off such beasts was no longer there.

"You, you turn to my way." Both spoke in unison, in tones of finality.

"N-no! Enough of that!" He tried to argue, getting up on two paws and pointing his claw at them. "Don't you have enough already?? They already took my father, the only thing he was carrying... whatever that coffin holds!" Grover threw his claws to the side in utter defiance. "I'm not going anywhere!"

The beings flapped their wings in silence, glaring at the boy, who held him in defiance of the beings who seemed to have forced his father to follow a fixed path, not giving him a choice.

Not giving him freedom.

"You don't have a choice." They continued. "Your destiny was predetermined the moment you were born."

Something tugged at his claw.

He jumped in fright but didn't move.

Glancing quickly at his right claw, he could see a chain tangling around his wrist. He tried to pull it free. A futile attempt, seeing this, he tried again to pull it off with now his other claw.

Behind him, a new chain would come out of the bottom of the sea of blood and intertwine with his other claw and completely thwarting his attempt to free himself. He was trapped.

"Arrgh...! What is this? From where-" Grover followed the metal chains to their source, following them all the way to his back.

His pupils dilated as the realization hit.

The Coffin.

He was the next workhorse, like his father.

"N-no! I-I don't want that!" He tried to reason with the griffons who just watched him with a smirk on their beaks.

"You don't have a choice." They repeated once more, as more and more chains bound him. "Follow our path, come to my side!"

"P-please... I don't want to..." But he was once again ignored. Like every time he's tried before, and failing once again to have his voice heard.

"DO IT GROVER!" They started screaming, just like before with his father.

"No no no no!"

"GROVER!"

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

"GROVER!" He jumped up. Glancing quickly to the side of him in surprise, finding Proteus in his military/religious clothes with a disapproving expression. "I've been waiting for you for over half an hour for our daily sparring match."

He looked around in confusion. He was in his room, lying on his and his father's bed.

"O-oh... I'm sorry uncle, I couldn't wake up..." He tried to come up with a quick excuse, letting out a crooked smile as he scratched his head, for Proteus this was a sign of nervousness or embarrassment at being caught sleeping too much. . But actually Grover was scratching his head with his claws in an attempt to calm down while disguising his fear with nervousness.

"I'll be up soon... I slept really badly today..." Grover chuckled nervously.

Proteus wasn't buying it. "Arcturius helps the early riser! Don't shame the gods with your laziness boy!" He poked Grover's forehead with his indicative claw.

"I'm sorry uncle.... It was just one time.... Forgive me?" He looked at his uncle with puppy eyes as he grabbed his blanket under his head. Giving him an absolutely adorable appearance.

This time it was Proteus who got a nervous look, opening and closing his beak wordlessly as he crossed his claws. 'Dirty blow Grover, using your cuteness as a weapon.'

They stayed like that for a few moments, staring at each other. Neither one wanting to back down.

But Proteus gave in, letting out a frustrated sigh but gathering his composure, puffing out, and keeping his claws crossed over his chest. "You are lucky for the mercy that the god of war has bestowed on me!" He said boastfully in an exaggerated way causing Grover to break out in a sweatdrop as he held back a laugh. "If it was just anyone, I would have made you do 6 runs around the palace without a break! But since you asked nicely, I'll go easy on you."

"Thank you Uncle-" He let out a 'Yelp' in surprise as he was roughly pulled by Proteus and gave the smallest one claw hug while he laughed extravagantly.

"Yes! Be grateful brat!" He chuckled as Grover kept his face buried in the Knight-Priest's rough but comfortable cloak.

He slowly removed his claw from the smaller one as he turned to leave the room. "Get changed! We have to check your stance in combat-" The Archon was startled by the heir to the empire lacing his claws around himself and keeping his face buried in his cloak.

"Could it... stay like this? Just a... little...?" Archon's gaze went soft and he returned the hug to the smaller one.

"Of course your majesty, of course." He patted the smaller one on the head as he held himself in the embrace. 'Poor thing... He must be desperate for attention after so many weeks away from his father...'

The Emperor was working like a convict the next few days after his son's birthday, he left early in the morning, most of it before his son woke up and only returned when he was already asleep. The little one must have been desperate for affection.

At least that's what Archon thought. Not knowing in the turbulence that the minor was going through, with all the doubts that dominated his mind and fear. Afraid with the meanings of his dreams.

'Gods.... Why....? Eros and Gabriela are good people...' He thought as he tightened his embrace. 'I'm sure... It's the truth...'

What Grover didn't know is that in that moment, he was lying to himself.

Author's Note

Ferdinand Dawnclaw

Three months, god damn i dragged my feet at every opportunity before touching the computer again didn't i?

And then, when i started writing again, everything that could have gone wrong in making this chapter, went wrong. Files corrupted TWICE after finishing them, rewriting this repeatedly and my worktime not helping

Jesus, I dragged this out for way WAY too long, but it is finally here! I hope you enjoyed it.

I will try to come back pumping out chapters more frequently, don't worry.

And expect errors. I am not perfect.

PS. Almost 5 thousand words! By accident it became the biggest chapter yet! haha

10 - Arcturius wisdom

The Archon of Arcturius was not a griffon who lost his temper over trifles. Let alone something important as training and educating a person with such an important role as the heir to the entire empire.

But as the months he spent with the heir night and day, he realized how much the boy had changed in recent times. When the emperor brought out his little son of almost four years old, the military archon had to hold back his surprised expression. The boy had grown up very quickly, not absurdly but still remarkably, looking 2-3 years older than he actually was.

Eyr had given his vote of confidence and as far as Proteus could see it, this was just confirmation. The boy would grow much taller than the counterparts of his age, like his great-great-grandfather Grover II before him. He would have an enormous and imposing stature when adulthood is reached.

From what Grover senior had explained, he wanted his son to start strengthening his body, learn humility and prepare for likely future conflicts.

Gabriela, one of the most fervent critics of any decisions that put Grover Junior in direct contact with the priests. Was surprisingly silent about that decision. The Warrior did not know the reason for such lack if taken action by the pink Griffon, but he had given up understanding the reasons for her actions a long time ago.

The first days were very difficult.

Not for the little heir, no. He took it all in really well, he had an insane amount of energy and a willingness to learn. For the priest, it was very refreshing to have a student who didn't look dead, complain all the time while really enjoyed listening to the stories and lessons he had to give.

But that has passed, he now looks more down and has lost much more of the energy he carried. And the Archon knows why.

Because of his father.

And the little heir wasn't the only one, everyone could see that the Emperor was getting worse. But only a few in the inner circle knew the truth.

The Emperor was dying.

It came as a shock to everyone, but he was there when the news broke to the figures important to Grover. He had been diagnosed with ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

A chronic disease with no cure that slowly affects the body's muscles and makes them obsolete. A degenerative disease of the nervous system that causes progressive, irreversible, limiting motor paralysis.

It is one of the most feared diseases in the world. No magical cures by the ponies at Equus or by the scientists at Yale have been discovered. Being extremely rare, only one in 500,000 get the disease. But those affected suffered greatly their entire lives.

It was admirable how he continued to attend all the daily meetings without fail and sort out the paperwork even with his bodily problems. The more he got worse the more he worked.

This had earned him the admiration of many of the castle's staff and created stories of how the 'Weak' Emperor even though he was chronically ill and suffering with every step he took and wing beat he made, he continued on for his son and nation.

This bore an ironic resemblance to the nation itself. The considered sick bird of Griffonia.

Both old, sick, and slowly dying. But refusing to fall and moving forward with all his might. No wonder the boy admires his father so much.

But even with all this wave of positive energy, it still doesn't change the fact that many realists and pessimists alike can see very well.

The Emperor doesn't have long to live.

If the disease, the way it is, and how far its stages are already in the emperor. As far as Proteus could see, he would last a year or more with luck.

"Aaaaarrggggh!" His train of thought was cut short when out of the corner of his eye he saw a piece of wood coming towards him, he quickly drew his staff in response and deflected it masterfully.

"Boy without honor! How dare you attack your mentor while he is thinking?? You will receive my divine wrath!" He yelled at little Grover, who was returning to his position with his wooden staff while grinning. Seeing Proteus's face betray his threat, smiling a friendly smile at the smaller one. It was obvious he was just kidding.

"It's not my fault that you're getting dizzy with age uncle, I think we'd better stop so you can rest." He remarked with an expression of mock pity, the veins of Proteus could almost be seen popping beneath his white fur.

"ARE YOU CALLING ME OLD??? BOY, YOU WILL BE IN A WORLD OF PAIN!" Grover just responded by laughing childishly, running off with a very angry priest chasing after him.

Some guards in the corners even lost their composure, seeing one of the most respected figures for their discipline totally lose their minds and run after a child. It was almost a comedy scene, both bursting out laughing.

Is it a bad idea to piss off Proteus? Absolutely. Did Grover regret it? Not even a little. 'Uncle's reactions are hilarious!' He thought humorously as he ran to 'escape' from his uncle.

Even trying to play the stiff Griffon. Proteus had grown to like the boy as if he were really his nephew. With his aunt and his 'grandfather' too busy fighting in the political scene to pay attention to the little one, and his father working to the point of exhaustion it fell to Proteus to take care of the little one in his absences.

Erion had come enthusiastically, as Eyr's guide and voice to the Goddess of Fertility, Family, and Agriculture. It was obvious why he thought he was worthy and the obvious choice for the matter of taking care of the physical and well-being of the minor. But the other two Archons saw the truth behind his good looks, he would use the Emperor as his puppet. Creating a very good relationship with the boy to take power for it.

For the honor of Arcturius he could not allow it. For the sacrifice of all the soldiers who fought in wars for his honor. Beings like Erion could not corrupt the sacred bloodline of the Von Greifenstein.

"Hehehe, uncle is dizzy again." He let out a sigh as he saw little Grover flying in front of him and nudging his head with the tip of his small claw while chuckling to himself.

"You little terror..." The Old griffon just sighed as he hid a smile. He would grab the boy who let out a 'hey' and put him on his back. The boy had grown up a lot, but he is still a child. "That's enough for today, it's time to go back to the royal library." He just received a dramatic sigh from his back.

"Reading is so boooooooooring. Let's keep fighting! Is more fun!" He just received a pat on his head from Proteus in response.

"It might not be as exciting as training or fighting, but it's just as important. Having a healthy, strong body is worthless if you don't have the intellect to back it up!"

"But there are a lot of guys in the palace who studied their entire lives for this! Can't I leave the job of governing to them?" His eyes widened when he received a chuckle from his uncle. "What... What's so funny?" The laughter immediately cut off, and Proteus took on a serious expression.

"Your father said the same thing when he was younger...." Grover's eyes widened in surprise. "He regrets that decision to this day."

"But why? They didn't obey Daddy? That's their job!" The Boy argued as the priest passed through the halls of the temple of the three gods. Receiving several bows as he passed by the important figure that he was, and the heir to the throne with him. Being followed by four guards who protected both front and back.

"For they have a quality given to us by the gods that cause strife and misunderstandings to this day; Greed and selfishness." He scoffed, then continued. "Since immemorial times, Griffons have fought for wealth and power, valuing wealth above all else and fighting with each other to achieve the greatest amount of wealth." He told sadly. "Only with the coming of your great-great-grandfather and the first of his lineage, that the entire continent was unified and lived in peace."

"Why?" Proteus raised an eyebrow at the boy's question, who continued with his question after a pause. "Why did the gods give us such traits if they're bad?"

"Simple boy, it's because they cared about us too much." This made the heir taken aback by the answer.

"Care...?" He asked totally confused.

"Your confusion is totally understandable. The gods and their intentions have always been a huge mystery to minds as small and insignificant as ours, but the reason is simple. They made it so that only the strongest would triumph, and the weak would die." Grover had to contain his shock.

"That's horrible!" Proteus just shook his head.

"Yes it's horrible, but it's the law of life. It's the main reason why our race thrived where thousands of others perished. Strength is of paramount importance to our race, to protect yourself and everyone around you. That's why we are warriors since birth. For the only true virtues are courage and discipline, and channeled properly they can overcome any obstacle." Grover listened patiently to the lesson his teacher was trying to give him and with great interest.

"But then why did we break up when the ponies held together for so long?" The priest paused, making Grover fear he had asked the wrong question. But just as quickly as he stopped, he resumed his walk. Making Grover breathe a sigh of relief.

"Because we haven't had a strong hand in a long time." He glanced back and made eye contact with the child. "That strong hand will be you."

Grover was genuinely touched by the compliment.

"And ponies aren't splintered like us YET."

"What do you mean?"

"Grover, have you ever heard of… 'Harmony'?" The little one looked up in surprise, the concept was something much discussed among griffon schoolchildren.

"Yes sir, but I just listened to stories." He gave his uncle a quick glance, silently asking for permission to continue. He received a nod and then continued. "It is a government over the 'Alicorns' a social caste that governs all the other three tribes that together form their country."

"Right and wrong at the same time my dear student."

"What?"

Proteus just chuckled at his student's disbelief, but he quickly composed himself and continued. "Officially Equestria is a constitutional Diarchy, with the senate looking after the state and its two 'immortal' rulers acting as overseers and only intervening when 'needed.' But unofficially, the reality is very different." Grover noticed how dismissive he sounded when he spoke of the Alicorn rulers of Equestria and their actions, he seemed to hate them for some reason. "Beyond what many believe, Equestria is a government with one of the most efficient propaganda machines in all of world history. Hiding the fact that they are an absolutist Diarchy. A government between two heads of state that both have complete control and power over the country, and leading their subjects without an iota of restrictions."

"What??" Grover looked even more shocked, but Proteus continued, looking a little annoyed by the child's surprise.

"You're a little genius, you could understand it easily, but I'll help you. Explain to me, what is an Alicorn?"

He hesitated a bit, afraid of getting his question wrong. "It is.. A race attained only by hard work and embodying their talent..." He looked distrustfully at the Archon. "Huh?"

"That's right, but could you explain to me why there are so few Alicorns?"

"Because... Because few were worthy of the position! Yeah! That's why!" Grover exclaimed very confidently and with a huge smile.

"You're right, officially. But not officially? You're wrong." Grover was surprised.

"But, Ponies are good! I've heard the stories! Peace, prosperity, and harmony! They live in a period of perfection for decades! No prejudice or economic problems!"

"Perfection you say?" Proteus laughed. "The only perfection is the gods, the creators of life and the universe. We are many things, but perfect is not one of them.

He snarled at the thought of that despicable race. "And ponies are no different."

"Why uncle?"

"They're not perfect, they're stagnant." Grover's eyes widened in surprise and he opened his mouth to try to argue, but his uncle didn't give way. "Their rulers have the tools and the ability to transform their species into the perfect war machines, with wings to fly freely through the skies and with horns to cast spells with monumental capacity for destruction while living far longer than any other race."

"But…if that's true, why didn't Celestia do it?"

"Because that would break that illusion of 'perfection' that princesses have so long tried to cultivate. They didn't even bother to give themselves the proper title of 'queen' or 'empress' to fortify that illusion of camaraderie and humility."

"Illusion of perfection...? Are you telling me that they... manipulate their subjects?" He received a nod.

"Precisely. Maintaining its 'perfection', it kills any renovation ideas before they even start." He would explain as they finally approached the royal library. "With their 'cutie marks' they do away with any ambition they would have for assigning each citizen a role in society." The priest narrowed his eyes. "And by maintaining a monopoly on their techniques for the 'ascension' of other Alicorns, they manage to reward those who are extremely loyal, while maintaining the illusion of meritocracy and 'equal-standing' amongst the few alicorns they have."

Grover couldn't close his mouth that kept agape with these information bombs thrown at him. 'I hadn't thought of it that way...'

But he would snap out of his thoughts when Proteus stopped abruptly. When Grover looked around and could see that they had already arrived at the royal library. Its giant, countless shelves filled with book after book.

The little heir had already lost count of how many times he had come here, but he was surprised at how quickly time seemed to pass by talking to his uncle.

"Looks like we're going to have to cut our conversation short, hope it gave you something to think about." He says as he bends down and helps the little emperor down. Turning to face him.

"What??? You can't just drop a bomb like that and not tell everything! That's unfair!" Proteus just burst out laughing, stroking the feathers on the head of the child who had puffed out his cheeks and closed his arms in an exaggerated sulk.

"Life is not fair." He teased the livid child. "But first, I'd like to introduce you to someone."

This caught the attention of the heir.

The Archon swept his gaze around the library, his eyes narrowing as he couldn't find what he was looking for.

"Wait here Grover." Before the little one could say anything more, the priest had already left and entered the deeper rows of books.

Grover looked around but did as he was told, taking the time to think about what his uncle had discussed with him. He had never stopped to think about seeing Equestria that way, he always believed that information placed in books could be completely trusted. Proteus totally broke this illusion of total truth, he should judge all information before taking it as truth...

He heard footsteps, it was Proteus, but he wasn't alone. Beside him was... 'A diamond dog...' He thought with surprise, he had already met some nobles who came from Bronzehill, the land of imperial dogs. But he had never seen one his age. He could see that he was about the same size as Grover, with brown fur and yellowish eyes.

"Rufus, I want you to meet your new lord. Grover sixth, and heir to the throne." The dog's eyes totally bulged and his mouth went agape, Proteus just smiled in response and returned his gaze to a confused Grover. "Grover, meet Rufus Loudbark, your first vassal."

Both children were just silent in shock. They stared at each other in utter surprise and disbelief. Returning their gazes to the priest who seemed to be enjoying the children's surprised reaction with his mischievous smile.

"EEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHH??" And Proteus burst out laughing

Author's Note

Happy new year!

Rufus Loudbark

11 - A friend with wine

He didn't know what to do, faced with the grandeur he could only open and close his mouth. Nothing came out of it but his quick breaths.

All his life he only heard stories of the glorious members of the Greifenstein clan. The liberators of the Diamond Dogs and founders of Bronzehill, a refuge from the tyranny of Diamond Mountain. Those who showed sympathy and mercy the moment all between the three rivers abandoned them to fate.

He had only been listening to stories all his life, and after arriving in Griffenheim he thought that walking along the walls would be the closest he would ever get to the family that had brought so much good to the dogs of Bronzehill. The only refuge from tyranny for them.

But now? Now he stood before the rightful heir to a legacy destined for greatness and glory. And he would have the privilege and honor of being the first, THE FIRST vassal of the young and future emperor.

He could barely contain his excitement but also fear. What a huge responsibility.

He will be the first and last line of defense until his lord grows up and gets a base of power. The life of a monarch in his paws.

He didn't know if he was crying from happiness or despair.

But he held back his tears and knelt down. At that moment his life was completely changed.

And now he was alone, looking at the center of the table trying to hide his embarrassment towards his monarch, who was reading and also trying to do the same behind his book.

Both been left alone to study by the Archon, who dismissed himself with the excuse of religious matters to attend.

Both were already in the room together for 10 minutes without saying anything at all. Not knowing what to do and getting distracted trying to pretend they're alone for different reasons. Loudbark didn't want to do something that would antagonize the future Emperor and cast him in a bad light towards someone he saw as such a magnificent being, and Grover didn't know how to react to having someone his age as a 'vassal'.

For as long as he can remember, Grover was surrounded by adult friends, from his loyal guards to the maids and servants. But never a boy his age.

Yes, he had the sons of the nobles who tried to make them befriend him. But he saw how the kids really didn't want to be with him, fake smiles and admiration manufactured to gain favor for what his father told him, so he always kept his distance.

But not this one, he was different. His Admiration felt different, it was real.

He wasn't used to having someone his own age, let alone a vassal, who looked up to him with such reverence. He had always been isolated, surrounded by adults who either treated him as a figurehead or tried to gain favor with him. But Loudbark was different.

His admiration felt genuine, and it made Grover feel uncomfortable but also a sense of warmth in his chest.

He put down his book and cleared his throat, trying to think of something to say. He decided to break the silence. "Vassal, may I ask you something?"

Loudbark looked up, surprised that the future Emperor was speaking to him. Immediately kneeling at the call. "Of course, my lord. Whatever you wish!"

"Loudbark, right?" he asked, trying to sound confident and authoritative, trying to imitate his father and how he spoke to his subjects.

"Yes, Your Highness," Loudbark replied, still kneeling. 'What an imposing figure! No wonders he is a Griffenstein!'

"Please, stand up," Grover said, trying to ease the tension in the room. "I don't like it when people kneel in front of me. It makes me feel... strange."

Loudbark stood up, still looking at Grover with awe.

"So, what brings you here to Griffenheim?" Grover asked, trying to start a conversation.

Loudbark smiled, happy that the Emperor was trying to get to know him. "I came here to serve the Empire, Your Highness. I am honored to have been chosen to become your vassal, to have the privilege of serving the future Emperor of Griffonia."

Grover nodded, feeling a sense of responsibility towards Loudbark. "I see. And what do you hope to achieve as my vassal?"

Loudbark thought for a moment, considering his answer carefully as to not offend his monarch. But he was quick as to not make his emperor wait. "I hope to learn from you, Your Highness, and to be a faithful and dedicated servant to the Griffenstein family. I also hope to protect and serve the people of Bronzehill, as I believe that the House of Griffenstein is the only hope for our freedom and prosperity."

'Is that how he truly think...? That's.... Admirable...' The child monarch thought, not being able to hold back his smile. "I'm glad to have you as my vassal. I promise to do my best!"

"I promise to do my best as well Your Highness!" He hit his closed paws on his chest in a sign of respect.

They continued their conversation, discussing various topics and getting to know each other better. Grover was happy to have someone his own age to talk to who was showing genuine interest in a friendship, and Loudbark was grateful for the opportunity to serve and learn from the future Emperor.

As they talked, they both realized that they had a lot in common, despite the difference in their station they both were being trained to combat, and both came from high houses of the Griffonian Empire.

And thus, a friendship had been born.

Loud, conflicted voices shout over one another in the center of a huge war room. Soldiers in their navy blue uniforms rushed to their posts, while a group of officers sat around a table.

In his guarding position while gripping his rifle in his two claws, he cast worried glances to his side, to his pony comrade who held himself in a more stoic phase than his, it was a female pegasus with black fur, she stared straight ahead. while trying to ignore the chaos that dominated the surroundings.

Sensing her compatriot's gaze beside her, the pegasus would seek the source of the gaze. The newly recruited soldier of the royal army showed clear signs of nervousness. His body having a hard time hiding its tremors, but his grip on the gun he carried gave away what he really felt.

"First day kid?" He nodded. It was not surprising to encounter a pony, at least not in Aquileia. Being before a region and now a merchant country, famous for its wine and other delicacies to the rest of the world. Many ponies from Equestria and its Griffonian colony of New Mareland came in droves under Grover IV's stable regime in search of new adventures and a new life in less populous cities.

"Sorry... Yeah... I just never thought something like this would happen...." He says trying to hide his nervousness. Raking her clenched claws through the fur on her forehead to remove some of the sweat that drenched her.

The Pony could understand. Since the counter-revolution by forces led by Maréchal Albert Berthelot, the kingdom has been experiencing a period of fear and paranoia. And now with the beginning of a new era of terror with executions of Republicans and sympathizers on the rise. Everyone is on the edge.

The pegasus took a deep breath, trying to calm herself before speaking. "It's okay to be nervous, but you have to focus. Our duty is to protect the kingdom and its people. We have to be ready for anything, even in times like this."

The young soldier nodded, taking a deep breath and trying to steady his nerves. "I understand, but it's hard not to feel overwhelmed in a situation like this. What if we fail? What if we're not good enough?"

The pegasus gave him a reassuring smile. "We were chosen for this for a reason. We have the training, the skills, and the determination to do our job. We have to trust in ourselves and in each other. And we have to remember that we're not alone. We're part of a team, and we have to work together to overcome any obstacles."

She paused for a moment, taking a look around the war room. The chaos was still present, but the soldiers were starting to get into position, and the officers were starting to coordinate their efforts. "We have to stay strong and focused. The fate of the kingdom is in our hands, and we have to be ready to do whatever it takes to protect it."

The young soldier nodded, taking a deep breath and gripping his rifle tighter.

"Even if it means killing our fellow countrymen...?"

The pegasus only showed a determined face. "They stopped being our countrymen when they turned on our monarch, filthy traitors..."

"Filthy traitors indeed my dear." Both of them looked at the owner of the voice and were agape as they marched into the war room, wearing their cocky smile and proud posture. Wearing the most expensive jewels and medals the kingdom could offer and with a crown that was crooked as it's size was too big to fit his head.

Moriset Discret, heir to the founder of the new kingdom of Aquileia. member of the prestigious, ancient and respected house of Discret and absolute monarch of the realm.

He slowly walked between the two guards, who had come to attention and saluted him as he entered.

"All hail Moriset Discret! King of Aquileia!" Everyone in the room cheered as the young nation's king's smile only grew, raising his claws and receiving praise.

"Thank you very much thank you! It's nice to see how many commoners recognize greatness when they see it." He slowly walked over to the table with the other commanders, his head held high and his chest puffed out with pride.

Many generals smile on the outside but on the inside. They were sweating with nervousness. A polarizing figure would be the understatement of the century when it comes to King Moriset.

Competence and he did not mix. His arrogance toward his lineage was monumental, which he used to compensate for his lack of leadership talent.

Pride in him blinded him, bringing delusions of grandeur and the magnificent leadership that held his kingdom together on the basis of his personality. When reality was very different.

Once a hegemony able to challenge its imperial lords of Griffenheim with its own sphere of influence despite its vassal status, Aquileia was a shadow of its former self. Thinking it had the last laugh to see the near end of Grover's dynasty with his failed revolution, the former king did not see the warning on the wall and ignored the 'train' of the industrial revolution that had passed from Equus and had arrived in Griffonia.

The revolution had come to Aquileia, with the retrograde practices of serfdom, mismanagement, and corruption in the nobility only combining to form a pavilion of gunpowder that was extorted by the entry of revolutionary ideas into the rabid population.

And as in the empire, they had succeeded. The head of the founder of the new kingdom was kept on a spike and walked through the streets of the capital, his family having to flee to the continent of Zebrica.

The Republic was like its counterparts in the empire, little lived. Even with its popularity and reforms acclaimed by the people, a counter-revolution had been carried out by vassals of the former king and the royal army and reinstated the Discret family in power.

But this was not without cost, feudalism had been abolished and the reforms had to be maintained. This did not mean that the king accepted such acts, initiating something that marked the beginning of his reign, the Reign of Terror - a wide-reaching purge of republican and democratic sympathizers. Some managed to escape to various foreign countries, including Equestria. But even with its brutality and efficiency, with executions in the feared and ancient guillotine. Stability had returned to the country, but the basis of fear. The prime minister saw that the internal division had to be ended for the country to rebuild itself after the loss of valuable territories like the banking city of Flowena and its gold deposits, having declared independence along with some other governors who took advantage of the revolution to form their own nations.

With that, revolutionaries who had previously been blacklisted as traitors were reintegrated into society and economic reforms more centered on the free market were implemented. Even though they were very unpopular with the nobles and the king, seeing that they decentralized their controls in the economy. They proved to be effective in revitalizing the broken Aquilenian economy.

But the monarchist government, seeing as it had no choice but to maintain some of the newly gained rights and freedoms of the common griffon. In order to bring the Kingdom under control, the King granted more autonomy to the duchies and counties of Aquileia, placing his relatives in charge.

And now he held his throne. Hiding all his faults with a façade of pride to back his own claims of leadership, even though his underlings have carried his regime up to this point.

But having to accept his leadership for the maintenance of the monarchy, the officers just accepted their fate. Sitting at the war table and giving voice to the king, who instead of joining the serious matter of state defense. He began a long speech of the success of his regime.

The pegasus just rolled her eyes. 'This is going to be a long day.'

He opened the door and walked in laughing with Loudbark close behind. "Are you sure you don't want to sleep here? I don't think my dad would mind." Diamond Dog just blushed upon hearing this, moving his paws open as he tried to hide his nervousness from him.

"No, no, your majesty! I don't want to be a nuisance!" He chuckled nervously as he scratched his cheek. "And I think you'll want to spend some time with your dad."

"Thanks for the consideration Loudbark. But I already told you to call me Grover. I don't feel comfortable with that title among equals." Loudbark's ears shot up and his embarrassment tripled. Equals?? He and the heir of an entire empire?? It was the emperor wishing to show humility, but still. What an honor! "And on top of that... I don't think he'll show up anytime soon..."

"So soon...? Majesty, the moon is already in the sky."

"My father... He's been very busy."

Loudbark's smile faded as he saw his liege deflected from him so quickly as he twisted with his father. He missed him, but they still saw each other, didn't they? From the looks of it, it seemed that his father had recently gone headlong into work, so much so that from what he could see he wasn't paying as much attention to his son anymore.

'That's why he hangs out with the Archons so much lately....' Diamond dog thought as he looked at his liege.

"Don't worry majesty, I'm sure he'll see you again soon! He must just be busy with the duties of an emperor." He said trying to comfort his new friend.

Grover sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "I hope so," he said softly. "I just wish he could make more time for me."

Loudbark nodded sympathetically. "I understand how you feel," he said. "But sometimes, as leaders, we have to make sacrifices and put our duties before our personal lives."

"I know," Grover said with a hint of resignation. "But it's not just that. Lately, he's been distant even when we do spend time together. Like his mind is always elsewhere."

Loudbark tilted his head, thinking. "Maybe you should talk to him about it?" he suggested. "Tell him how you feel and ask if there's anything he wants to share with you."

Grover brightened at the idea. "You're right. I should talk to him. Maybe he's going through something and just needs someone to talk to."

Loudbark smiled. "That's the spirit. And if you need any help, you know I will always be here for you." He punched his fist in his chest as if saluting him. "It's my duty!"

The heir couldn't help but laugh at the display, with Loudbark following suit. "Hahahaha- T-thanks..." Grover said between talks "Thanks, Loudbark. I really appreciate it."

"I'm here for that my lord." He bowed much to Grover's embarrassment, then turned and walked somewhere the little heir didn't know. He turned and waved as he walked away. "Goodbye, my lord! It was nice meeting you!"

He waved back while maintaining his huge smile, a sincere and happy smile.

'Dad... I made a friend, a real friend!'

He thought as he turned to return to the bedroom, closing the door behind him. "New friend, son?" He stopped in his tracks.

Turning around, he found the room very dark, only lit by a dim light in the center of the room that was blocked by a swivel chair. Which turning revealed the emperor, holding a book in his claw which he closed with a loud 'pow'.

A sweatdrop fell from Grover's head. 'Oh my god, how dramatic. He really liked those mystery books.'

But that quickly changed to a huge smile, even in the darkness he could see his father's loving face. Best of all, he was here! With a rush he gave his father a hug, who let out a grunt of pain, his eyes widening and in surprise he quickly pulled away. "Oh my god dad! I'm sorry I didn't mean to-." But his dad just shut him up by patting his head.

"D-don't worry my son, it's okay, I'm very happy to see you too." He smiled weakly as he put his book aside, Grover junior hugged his father again, much gentler this time. And the senior warmly accepted.

They stayed like that for a few moments, content to be like that and for each other's company. But the heir could not hold back the doubt he was forming.

"Father.."

"Yes?"

"Why were you in the dark if you were reading?" The father paused, seeming to think before answering.

"I... I wanted to surprise you.."

Junior looked curious. "Surprise me?"

"Yeah... We haven't been together for a while now... Wanted to do something special but eh... You got me." He chuckled to himself as he swiveled his chair slightly to the side and pulled out a drawer in his desk. Grover looked on curiously as his dad pulled something out of the drawer.

It was...

"A violin?" He looked surprised, while his father smiled. Slowly handing it out to her son who took it with stars coming out of his eyes. Radiant in the face of the present.

"I wanted to apologize for…not giving you as much attention as I should have. Will you forgive me?" Grover junior's smile faded as he looked at the sad smile his father gave him. He placed the instrument on his bed and gave his father another hug. Who was surprised but reciprocated.

"Of course dad, you have to work. I completely understand."

The father just squeezed his son tighter "You don't know how relieved I am, thank you very much." They then split up. "You've matured a lot in a very short time"

"Thanks, dad" He smiled as he glanced at his gift. "I can't wait to play it!" A look of realization came over his face. "I can show this to Loudbark! He'll be so jealous!" He smiled playfully.

The father's smile almost evaporated.

"Loudbark?"

"Yes! My vassal, or rather. My friend!"

Grover just mentally facepalmed. 'Proteus you old son of a bitch. Why was I not informed??'

"Son." Grover looked at his father, his smile fading with his father's serious tone. "Listen carefully to what I'm going to say; Be careful with the 'friends' you make."

"Dad...? What do you mean? Isn't that what you wanted me to do? Friends my age?"

The senior nodded his head but continued. "Yes, but from what I can see, you're already trusting him. Tell me, how long have you been friends with this little 'Loudbark'?"

The boy hesitated a little, afraid of giving the wrong answer. "Just... Just today..."

"Son, listen to me. Trust is something you shouldn't give away so easily. It's one of the most important things we have and it can only be given to those you're sure will reciprocate." He counted while kneeling in front of his son who listened attentively. "Always remember, that having the worst enemy is better than having fake friends. The enemy you know, you will already expect that he will harm you, that he will hurt you. But a fake friend will attack you in what is fragile. He'll attack you-" He poked his son's chest. "Here."

"But.... How am I supposed to know who my real friend is and who my fake friend is??" Grover junior asked, already worried that the friendship he formed with Loudbark was fake and that he had made a mistake.

"It's simple." Grover continued, raising his index claw. "Chosen based on value and principles-" Then he raised his middle claw. "-and in the exchange of value."

The junior looked completely confused at his father, who explained. "Having no principles, that friend you're only friends with for some activity you share, like games, playing or reading. Ask yourself, would you stay friends if you both stopped doing the things you became friends for doing?" The Senior continued. "Friendship made by the only pillar that is similar habits my son is not a true friendship." Junior made a face of understanding. "There are many who will want their friends just to get the same benefits as yours my son. They want power and money. And you have that source. That's not a true friendship, that's parasitic."

He paused, with a pained look on his face, but quickly recovered and continued. "A real friendship is not restricted by race or a different type of being. Your friend may be your complete opposite, but if you have the same key principles, then that's a real friendship. When a friend is willing to stick with you helping you at your worst moment, when he can abandon you to save himself and he chooses to go into the fire to help you instead, that demonstrates the greatest symbol of brotherhood you can have. A friend willing to die for you, but you must be willing to do the same!" He continued to explain. "This is the exchange of values, the exchange of burdens and help. This is true friendship."

"I... I never thought like that dad..." This moral lesson was very sudden, he didn't know why his father was so worried about him making some 'wrong' friendship. But from what he explained was true, friendship could be something amazing but also extremely dangerous. He would be careful.

"Do you understand my son?"

"Of course dad. I understand." He received a pat on his head.

'Wait...' The boy stopped, his head spinning when this conversation reminded him of one person in particular. 'Chryssy... You.... Are you a fake friend...?'

His father had given a lot for him to think about. Grover didn't sleep a lot that night, the more time passed the more doubts grew and festered upon his mind. The boy for the first time felt something he never felt before.

Paranoia.

Author's Note

All the pieces are set in place. The seeds have been planted with doubt clouding the skies. Next chapter will be a big bomb people! I am excited!

12 - The Dog of the Emperor

At a train station, Grover Senior was preparing for a voyage across his empire. This was the debut of their newest transportation system that connected all corners of Herzland, what was left of the fragile empire.

The Emperor could not take the shame out of himself to think that this modest railway was the only thing in his legacy that he could say was of his own making. All of his reforms, and all his laws, were all ineffective and were brought about by a council of corrupt nobles who only wanted to recover their lost powers from the actions of Von Greifenstein's predecessors. And they only helped to bring more and more stagnation and a downward economic spiral that almost bankrupted the empire, if it weren't for the church, and Gabriela's allies, the empire would be in an even more precarious situation than it already is.

"You can't be serious Dad! I want to go with you!"

He let out an exasperated sigh as he remained kneeling in front of his son. If nothing could get worse, it was his son in an attempt to stick with him for as long as he could with his father.

It hurt his heart every time he had to refuse his son's requests. Even more so now that he had turned his almost uninterrupted attention to the internal affairs of the empire. He had to deprive himself of the greatest pleasure of all, seeing his son daily.

Even though he missed his son's constant beaming face, he moved on, knowing that if when he left and the empire was not in good shape, his son would suffer immensely. And that was something he couldn't allow.

And he suffered even more in his attempt to fix it. The loss of the locomotor capacity of its wings and its left claw spoke for itself. He was having to postpone the railroad project for two months in a vile attempt to fix the monumental Byzantine bureaucracy that cursed the tireless bureaucrats. The more he got into the day-to-day problems he realized how blind he had been to have trusted a bunch of greedy and ambitious nobles.

But that didn't matter at the moment, what mattered was his son and only him.

"I'm Sorry son, but this is a business trip. The opening of the railroad is going to be something I've been working on for a long time, and I have to make sure everything goes smoothly." He tried to explain to the smaller one, who still had his chest pushed out and cheeks puffed out in defiance.

"Then let me go with you! I want to help!" He just smiled in response to his son's wishes. 'Your birth has already helped me more than any noble.'

"No, you staying here, studying and training with Proteus already helps me a lot more than you can imagine."

"But... father... You can't push yourself any further!"

"I'm 100% capable of-"

"NO! YOU'RE NOT!" The boy shouted, surprising even the guards who accompanied them, many of the Emperor's companions decided to withdraw when they saw the commotion, not wanting to incur the wrath of the little heir.

"Father for the love of Boreas, you can barely walk without being in pain! You need this cane to walk and you can't even fly anymore!" The boy grabbed his father's clothes, who just looked on with an expression of emotional pain seeing his son in such a state. "Please...Stay with me...Don't wear yourself out like this..." He looked up with pleading eyes for his father, not wanting him to leave or to get hurt more.

Not wanting to lose him

The Senior almost succumbed to the temptation of his son's love, to simply throw all the plans he had spent countless nights making up in the air and return with his son to the palace, and stay with him for the rest of his few days. Playing with him, teaching him, and simply spending as much time as possible with him. Being a father he himself wished he had.

His son deserved this, he deserved the whole world and more.

But he would not receive it. Instead, his only father figure would soon be gone and the few he could consider family would turn on each other for power.

And his inheritance? A fragmented state was on the verge of imploding, and any mistake or crisis would lead to a chain of reaction that would destroy what was left of what was once one of the greatest empires the world had ever seen.

But worst of all, the situation could all been avoided.

This was all his fault; his neglect and fear of ruling caused the current situation and his son to have to experience one of the worst periods Griffonia had ever seen.

No. He couldn't let his son suffer such a fate, he still had time and he was still alive. As long as he could stand and breathe, he would do anything to right his wrongs.

It was impossible to unify the empire in his state, but perhaps, with his willpower and the little life he had in his weak body. He could keep what little they still had unified.

Slowly he knelt down in front of his son, and with a gentle grip on his shoulder, he pulled him to face him. "Son... Do you trust me?"

"O-Of, course Dad." He nodded his head.

"And I trust you." The Father proclaimed as his son could only smirk at himself as the senior continued. "If I ask you to stay here, and strive to become better- No, become THE best. You will, won't you?"

"Y-yes! I will!" His father just nodded his head

"Good." He smiled as he patted his son's head. "See you later, my most prized treasure." He gave a light kiss on his son's forehead who just got embarrassed with a silly smile.

The boy couldn't hide his smile when he received the praise, not taking his eyes off his father from the moment he got on the train to his departure to visit all corners of the empire.

He felt something on his shoulder, looking to his side he saw Proteus and Gerlach waiting for him. They were both stiff, tall, and proud, they hid their apparent dislikes of each other with their discipline.

They didn't show it, but little Grover could see it, they didn't hate each other for their personalities, but for their ideals. Proteus in his classes demonstrated a self-leveled distaste for nobility and tried to convince him the entire time over fighting lessons that none of them were trustworthy, that they only cared about themselves, and that one day they would come after them.

This didn't confuse him too much, as Gerlach was the exact opposite of everything Proteus said nobles were.

He was calm, humble, and very kind. His history lessons were always neutral, showing all sides of the story, the truth. But he always encouraged the value of tradition and the ruling class whenever he could, while explaining the importance of the clergy while criticizing their recent actions.

The same could be said of Gabriela and Eros.

Grover never stopped to reflect, but now that he pondered his father's words, he observed his mentors' actions and their teachings. They were contradictory and he could see the groups that Gabriela, Gerlach, and the nobles were against those of Eros, Proteus, and the priests accused and blamed each other for problems and that the only solution was for the other to disappear.

Now, he could see it all for what it really was.

They were trying to use him. Mold him to become the 'perfect' emperor in their eyes.

He looked at both of them, Proteus was smiling warmly back at the little one and Gerlach nodded his head in respect.

'They are lying, all of them are.' He thought bitterly.

Unknowingly, beside the rulers, two crimson eyes watched the young heir, Interest in its menacing aura.

His first stop on his long journey would also be his most impactful.

Knowing that traveling throughout the kingdom, even being a shadow of his former self, still contained a vast territory that would take weeks to cross even by train. In his exclusive carriage surrounded by a heavy division of the royal guard, he pondered silently and alone on all the events of the empire.

Getting on the train to leave after saying goodbye to his son. He was stunned by an absolutely huge crowd that either contained royalists cheering to his name and praising the creation of the railroad and the 'future of progress' as they called it, or griffons begging, BEGGING. Political reforms and food.

All of his preoccupation with memorizing his speeches as he visited each province and vassal was thrown out the window on hearing these complaints.

'I'll be back in no time.' He remembered her words seeing such situations. That wretched changeling ran her tongue across her lip mockingly as she looked down upon him. 'When you die, your poor little son will be alone...' He growled as he struggled to dispel such memories.

But that was a futile attempt. Just helping to push the memories further and think about them more.

He hated it, but.... Chrysalis was right. She would come back. Like it or not, she had gained something he didn't expect, a true friendship with his son. Only Proteus had gained a friendship at least like his son's.

Even after spending a lot of time with Eros and Gabriela, he had respect and admiration for them. But not true friendship even with their various attempts to enter the little one's life.

He tried to fight her influence on the court, oh yes he did. For the first time, he confronted his grand council and demanded to sever relations with the Changeling Lands, in order to end the attache and partnership between the Griffonian and Changeling militaries.

But also, for the first time, the council turned him down and barred his attempt to pass legislation. Even furious and tirelessly trying again and again the council wouldn't budge, not even Gabriela came to his support, deciding to stay neutral in the debate and not wanting to go against the other nobles. Grover felt betrayed, the only ones who came to his support were Archon Eros and the Count of the Diamond dogs.

The Archon's support for the Emperor was sadly not a surprise. Anything the Nobles are against, he is for and vice versa, he is a good friend but just as opportunistic as the enemies he fought. He saw a chance at going against the nobility and he took it, helping an old friend was just a bonus.

But the Count? Ignatius had no reason to be in favor of the Emperor's proposal, quite the contrary. The County of Bronzehill is one of the vassals that most benefits from the Changeling Attache. The Diamond Dogs' industries produced using Changeling schematics and many of their troops are equipped with equipment using Said schematics.

But even then, Count Ignatius was the Emperor's most ardent supporter. Tales of the loyalty of the Bronzehill hounds did not give them enough credence. For the Emperor, they would destroy themselves if he ordered them.

He heard the whistle blow. While a tremor took place on the train.

A knock on the door of his engine. Getting up, he walked as quickly as possible to answer the door with much discomfort. 'Fucking cane!' He complained in his mind when he almost fell when he intertwined one of his claws with it, even so, he managed to reach the door.

Upon opening, he received a very surprised messenger. "Your Majesty..?" He didn't expect that normally even though it was just a wagon, a butler was expected to at least attend to someone of as high a status as the Emperor, himself attending to the messenger was...

Different...

"Yes? What do you want?" Grover asked, a little irritated by the interruption as he tried to reason, the messenger quickly snapped out of his trance and dropped to his knees.

"A thousand pardons, your majesty! I came here to inform you that we are a few kilometers from the County of Bronzehill." He received a nod from the monarch, who motioned with his hand for him to relax.

"Thank you, you are dismissed." He received a quick bow, then darted towards another locomotive.

The emperor just sighed, walking while grinding his beak in pain to one of the golden chairs. 'Travel trips weren't so bad when I was younger…' He laughed sadly. Coughing hard afterward. 'I'm dying... There's no doubt about it.' He thought grimly as he looked out the window, seeing the large city of Bronze Cross looming in the distance. 'I need help.'

Their arrival in the diamond dog capital of the empire was nothing short of one of the biggest celebrations the emperor has seen since his coronation. When the train entered the city limits, entire crowds were already waiting for its arrival.

Confetti flew from the tops of houses as everyone shouted his name. He had to admit he couldn't contain the smile on his face as he slowly came to a halt with a tssss and rising smoke to the delight of the already excited crowd.

Going down, he had to contain his pain and walk without his cane, to generate a false sense of security for the people and mask his true state of health. Having to stop and lean on some of the royal guards to keep from falling and catching his breath, pretending to stop to wave to the euphoric crowd while keeping his smile registered.

But this time it was no longer a fake, but a genuine one. Diamond dogs were one of the only species Grover could trust to have no ulterior motives. It was a very straightforward and honest breed, if they love you or hate you they will tell you to your face.

The love they had for him, it was all genuine. They really adored him, not for any ulterior motive. This love for him comes from generations, from the time of his great-great-grandfather. When Emperor Grover II granted the Bronze Mountains to a group of ex-slaves fleeing Diamond Mountain under the domain of the tyrant King Rover Diamondshield.

Just taking a mere glimpse at a member of the Von Greifenstein dynasty is considered good luck by the dogs. And receiving the attention of a Greifenstein is something that would make the dog, no matter status or social class gain immense prestige, making them respected figures virtually overnight.

But hurting him is the greatest sacrilege of their entire society. A crime punishable by death, as it is considered an attack on the very concept of freedom. The Grovers are almost sacred figures for them, and for that reason, they were one of the few species fully integrated into the society of the empire, but one of the only ones truly accepted by the Griffons as members of their own people.

Grover knew that as long as he was in these lands, he would be absolutely untouchable.

Since then the County of Bronzehill has grown and prospered as a loyal subject of The Empire.

And this was very apparent when viewing the outer part of the mountainous city. Walking through the concrete and well-maintained streets.

Taking one of the cars selected exclusively for the monarch, he continued through the streets flanked by crowds and surrounded by guards holding them back and preventing them from getting in his way.

He then went towards the main building in the center of the city, in the administrative capital of the entire county. There, he expected to meet the Council of Bronzehill, but more importantly, Earl Ignatius. Famously known to Griffonia as the Gray Hound of Bronzekreuz. One of the few beings Grover could count on to be his close friend, having attended his coronation, and in turn, the emperor attended Ignatius' wedding feast.

Even though the celebrations showed an entourage very welcoming to him, it was all improvised by the fact that Grover wasn't supposed to be there that day. And yes two weeks later, had it been on the appointed date the earl himself would have met the emperor at the station but Grover decided to change his schedule and come to the land of dogs first. He had a very important motive, and he knew that Bronzetail was the only being he could trust at that moment.

Arriving at the huge building. A delegation was already waiting for him, all showing clear nervousness and he could even see that many had their clothes unbuttoned. Upon descending, everyone would kneel with fervor.

"Your Majesty! A thousand pardons for not being presentable to you Your Excellency! We are not worthy of the presence of the blood of freedom!" The 'leader' of the delegation shouted, showing clear regret as everyone around him also apologized.

"No need for an apology my loyal subjects. It was my fault, I should have given a warning in advance." Grover said with finality as he approached the kneeling dog.

"B-but your majesty! W-we-" He would be interrupted by the emperor's claws squeezing the dog's arm and helping him to his feet.

"Are you questioning me Councilor?" Grover asked with a raised eyebrow. Making many of the other dogs around gape in shock as the counselor himself appeared to have gone pale beneath his fur. Yes, it was a cheap shot Grover knew. But he was not patient enough to deal with these attitudes.

Of course, he fervently denied it, apologizing further by kneeling before the emperor. Who just shook his head and couldn't keep the smile off his face.

"I'm kidding counselor." He chuckled to himself as he helped the dog up, hiding the pain he felt doing so. "Please take me to your count. I have something to discuss with him."

Being guided by the advisors. They escorted him into the office with the Count, who was waiting at the door. Lapping eyes on the Emperor, Ignatius quickly came to Grover and knelt before his paws. "Majesty... Your arrival here is.... Unexpected..." He spoke hesitantly but smiled warmly at the arrival of his old friend.

"Iggy, come on... You know you don't need to be formal with me." He replied with a smile of his own, Ignatius stood laughing, quickly looking around at the totally flabbergasted councilors.

"You are all dismissed. You made your nation proud, take the afternoon off." He tells his advisers, not expecting them and already opening the door for the emperor to enter.

The Emperor would bid the councilors a good afternoon, much to their enormous happiness, and follow the Count Diamond dog.

"What would you like, big G? The usual green tea? A black coffee?" he asked dropping all his formality, taking a seat in his armchair next to a fireplace.

"You're not serious, 'Big G'? What are you? 12?" He asked in a mocking tone as he threw himself on the couch, feeling his body let out a sigh of relief that he didn't have to push so hard anymore.

"What? Prefer 'Little G'? Because from the looks of it you lost that title a long time ago."

"Ha... He's not even small anymore. He's growing absurdly fast, he'll be my size by now." The count couldn't hold back a look of surprise.

"What do you mean? The kid is barely 4 years old."

They were now both sitting down, Grover was silent for a few moments staring at the floor, while a curious Ignatius sat across from him and put down some cups of coffee he had grabbed while they talked.

"Iggy... My son.... He's not ordinary." He received a friendly smile from his old friend.

"Of course he's not, he's a hallowed member of the Von Greifenstein."

"No, that's not what I mean. He's... There's something about him that I... I don't have the words to describe..." Ignatius fell silent, waiting for his friend to clarify further, interest growing more and more. more apparent in itself.

"Since he was born... He showed signs that he is anything but ordinary. He challenged me when was born iggy, my own son! He didn't even have his senses developed yet!" he began, throwing his claws up in exasperation. "When he was almost a year old, he already had nightmares!"

Ignatius couldn't hold back his shock as the emperor nodded at him in confirmation and agreed with the surprise. "Yes! I felt the same way. How could a year old have nightmares?! But that's not all, before his two-year-old birthday, he already understood speech and could speak!"

"He...? Talk...? How??"

"I don't know, but he was already asking questions, many of them. Some that even I don't know the answers to. His intellect for his age is absurd. And at two years old, he already knew how to fly." He paused as he waited for the words to land on his friend. "It took me 5 years to learn how to glide at least." He continued as he rubbed his head with his tense claws. "And to top it all off, he, along with his ability to fly, learned to write. He was the one who invited Chrysalis to the palace for her birthday that day."

"Is this... public knowledge?"

"No, no one other than the servants inside the castle and close figures knows of his rapid development. Even though it's miraculous, I doubt it would be believable to the general population, they might question it and think it's just propaganda made to improve the image of my son to make up for the lack of one of mine."

"My god Grover... This... This is miraculous in every way! He-"

"He is possibly the Herald of the Gods."

This left the room in complete silence, leaving Diamond Dog gaping as Grover stared at him with a serious expression.

The Herald of the Gods was a fairy tale but still well-known figure, believed to emerge in the darkest of times the Griffon race went through, blessed by the divine triad of Griffons to guide them through their greatest crises.

According to legends, when the Griffons came into existence they immediately clashed over wealth and land. They came into contact with beings from the neighboring continent, the ponies of Equestria. Who tried to colonize the southeastern lands of Griffonia.

They were aliens to a race that was once considered the only species on the entire planet. Ponies were their opposite in every way, being pacifistic and egalitarian with their deluded philosophy of 'friendship' when Griffons were warriors and individualists. An antithesis of all their practices and culture.

For the first time in the entire existence of their race, the Griffons united in a single banner against this common enemy, with the intention of driving them from their lands. And afraid their weaknesses will spread through the population and wipe out the cultures that made them exist in the first place.

The Ponies have never been in conflict in their entire existence, and this has resulted in defeat after defeat, many caused by troops simply refusing to fight, not knowing the concept of violence in the first place, causing them to almost be expelled from the mainland entirely.

But that's where she came from, the bringer of chaos and usurper of the sun of Boreas. A being bearing characteristics of the three groups of ponies they encountered emerged. With powers stolen from the gods, that completely decimated entire armies and wreaked havoc for the Griffons, singlehandedly turning the tide of conflict. And causing the ponies to finally fight back, pushing the griffons deeper and deeper into the mainland almost to the birthplace of Griffonkind.

But then, a legend arose in the same place that their entire race originated, bearing the Idol derived from Boreas himself, with a divine aura that shone like the sun's currents, gigantic stature for any type of griffon, and powers never before seen in the history. This figure led their race against the invaders and clashed with the usurper. Forcing them to retreat and abandon the continent altogether.

After saving his species from foreign domination, he unified the entire race under a single flag. The Herald has completely disappeared. Leaving a legacy that would be picked up and used by Grover the first, believed to be the rightful descendant of the divine figure.

"The Herald...? Are you sure?"

"Born with vitality and health above any newborn Griffon, it proved that he was blessed with a very powerful body by Eyr. His fighting spirit proves he was by Arcturius. And his intelligence, with intellectual capacity so young proves that he was blessed by Boreas with a natural leadership ability." He chanted as he slowly rose to his feet and walked towards the fireplace, prompting Ignatius to follow. The emperor stared into the flames as he continued. "His nightmares clearly show what's going on, Eros saw it too. It's the gods sending messages to him, teaching and improving my son."

"Grover...." The Diamond dog spoke, with an uncertain tone, making Grover look at him. "I... Why are you telling me this? Why trust such personal and important things...?"

"I'll answer with a question of my own," Grover says with a neutral expression, ignoring the lost look from the count. "If I asked you to go against everything and everyone. Would you?"

"Yes, Your Majesty." He didn't hesitate, he didn't blink.

"If I told you to carry the burden of thousands on your back. Would you obey?"

Count blinked in utter shock at the thought of the question's implications.

"Y-your majesty...?"

"I will die Ignatius." The tone of finality had Grover's old friend opening and closing his mouth like a fish, but he didn't wait and continued. "It could be tomorrow, next week, or even next month. But one thing is for sure, I don't have much more time until the end of this year, my son is one of the only things I can die happy knowing he will bring hope for this cursed land." Both their eyes met.

"But I'll leave him alone, with a fractured empire, enemies on all sides, and opportunists looking to exploit it to seize power. A child alone." One of his claws tightened on the Count's shoulder. "I need someone I can trust to look after my son and empire before he can take the crown. Someone capable and trustworthy. That being is you." he says with a tone of finality. "Count Ignatius Bronzetail, I, Emperor Grover Von Greifenstein the fifth, Patriarch of the Greifenstein Dynasty, appoint you as Acting Regent of the Griffonian Empire!"

With these words, for the first time in history. A non-griffon took the most powerful position in the entire empire. And history changed forever.

Author's Note

Kept you waiting huh?

13 - Intrigue and Hidden Passages

When asked what the true gem of Griffonia is, many might say that it is the thriving port of Skyfall, one of the most productive cities and one of the busiest ports in the entire world. With its trading ships sailing to all corners of the globe and trading goods and currencies.

Or maybe they could answer Romau, the eternal city that stands firm and outlived dozens of empires and kingdoms. With its city as rich and prosperous as entire kingdoms combined.

Others would say Griffonstone. The Cradle of Griffonkind. The nest of the gods where they created the first Griffon in the world at the top of the tree of life.

But scholars know the true answer, and that answer is the Yale Rectorate.

The Duchy of Yaledom was vassalized under the rule of Grover I. Safe in the heartlands of the Empire, the Dukes maintained close contact with the Emperor. Under these circumstances, Yale was able to provide higher education to the Empire's growing nobility.

With time, they grew in prestige and wealth, and students from all over the continent came to learn. With time, however, the local nobility grew even poorer. Griffonia was changing, and the Industrial Revolution had begun. While factories sprang up and manufactories spurred on in the cities, the nobles continued to rely upon their comparatively undeveloped lands to provide for them, and Yale was losing its place to other cities within the duchy which had taken a greater initiative to industrialize.

It was two hundred years later after the founding of the University that the ducal rulers finally sold their title and rule to the University of Yale itself to save themselves from poverty. Grover III, who was attempting to unify the realm, likely wouldn't have taken kindly to such a large shift in politics, especially one so close to Griffenheim. So as to not provoke action from the Empire, it was decided that the title would be kept alive, if in name only, by the first Rector and father of modern Yale.

Now in the present he flew through its long, ancient interconnecting corridors, he could see room after room containing dozens of shelves crammed with books. One of the most knowledgeable territories in the empire is an understatement.

Yale is a bastion of knowledge and advancement. Being the source of a thousand years of discoveries made by trial and error of a species that even at its apex, continues to evolve and innovate constantly.

At least that's what the members of 'The Shinning Beacon of Science' say about themselves.

But the reality, as well as the stories taught in its former salons, unfold differently from reality.

Yale lived in almost a social segregation, between the elite class that lived and studied in the halls of the several universities scattered in the rectorate and those that worked in the industries and farms of Yale. With university students being the de facto leaders and unofficial lords of the nation, the commoners have the chance to be pocketed at one of the prestigious academies, ensuring a prosperous and luxurious future. But only 10% of all applicants make it through, and far fewer make it through the tough, competitive school life at one of the most respected institutions in all of Griffonia. Its libraries are unparalleled, though, and it holds a strong tradition of academic excellence.

Yale's academics specialize in Science and Philosophy, but in recent years, some feel that the curriculum is outdated, out of touch with reality and the common griffon, or even contradictory or stagnant. Regardless, Yale continues onwards with its grand scientific vision.

But this wasn't the time to think about that, in Mikusian's mind, he had to keep his mind clear of any thoughts in order to appear more presentable. As the Rector Magnificus Mikusian, he was expected to be the embodiment of the values of all the Academies and universities in the Rectorate.

Taking a long breath. He would walk down the marble stairs on his way to the university's exit while ignoring the commotion around him, with students and employees rushing to put the finishing touches to the university's decorations and make the place spotless for the coming Emperor.

A student with a clipboard and paper would fly in and land right next to him, accompanying him on his hurried walk to his destination. "R-rector Magnificus s-sir! y-your arrival is most u-unexpected here, but I can assure you that e-everything is going as pla-"

"Cut me the formalities and bring me up to speed, I've wasted enough time fixing this ridiculous powdered wig to waste any more."

"Y-yes sir! By now the great hall has already been stocked with-" He began to speak as Rector continued to cross the halls of the academy, he kept his expression firm as he tried to keep up with his companion's nervous babbling.

Mikusian liked to think of himself as a perfectionist, a griffon who when put to task would go above and beyond in the execution and precision of anything needed for the good of the academies and their students.

But this was too big for him to be a perfectionist, precision was necessary, but the scale of the preparations divided his full attention and made precision much more difficult as he delegated his attention.

"-And finally, you have important visits from high-ranking representatives of the Bruma and Gamia garrison." This made him raise an eyebrow while maintaining a sullen expression.

'The militaristic fanatics then.' He scoffed. The Universities of Bruma and Gamia lie in the West. Bruma's faculty believe in the strength of tradition and specialize in the Social Sciences. They teach to preserve societal values, that one must go forth into the streets to learn and bring change. They reject harmony and socialism as nothing but Equestrian attempts to export their way of life. For this, they are very popular among the masses. Same with Gamia, however, it has a different outlook. Its biological studies are second to none, perhaps because researchers here believe in the pure, unhindered acquisition of knowledge. Already, they push the boundaries of ethics, to put aside morality in the name of progress. Still, they yearn to stretch the line further, to even eliminate it, to achieve their full potential, and soar to new heights.

Neither is quite satisfied with the more liberal aspects of society and has close ties with the local Prelate of Arcturius. Each also receives additional funding from nearby Romau, seat of the Archonate of Eyr, and holds strong ties to the clergy.

"You are dismissed." Abruptly he stopped and stared straight ahead much to his student's confusion.

"But Sir...?" He looked at the spot his Rector was giving so much attention to in curiosity, and his face showed absolute shock. "O-o-oh no-"

"Ferdinand Dawnclaw" Mikusian snarled, as he never took his eyes off one of the most feared and respected Griffons in the entire Empire. He was at the end of the hall and at the entrance to the building, the officer in a clear cordial discussion with what looked like a priest from Arcturius.

The Student dismissed himself quickly, wanting to avoid coming into contact with the dreaded officer, while the Rector took a deep breath. And he marched towards the unexpected visitors.

The Albino didn't seem to have seen him approaching even with a clear line of sight he showed no sign of noticing him, which to Rector meant one of two things; the rumors reporting the poor eyesight he contained, or that he was ignoring him on purpose. He didn't know how to react to the latter.

As he approached the priest he was talking to, he showed surprise at the veil but had a smile and lowered in reverence. "My Rector, it is an honor to see you at such an important moment."

He gave a weak smile as he nodded to the priest, he was young, around 22 to 24 years old. He had two yellow eyes and light purple fur. He was the Prelate of Yale, personally chosen by Archon Proteus III, and a Member of the Academic Council.

He was young but already bore the best qualities of the followers of Arcturius, A Smith who can burn away impure elements through war and forge together what is fractured. A Warrior loyal, honorable, and unflinching in conflict.

"Really Rector, it is a great honor to be present at such a prestigious and culturally important academy." His smile immediately fell upon hearing that voice, turning around and being greeted by the cocky grinning albino, his scarlet eyes piercing Rector's soul like a dagger.

Magnificus didn't have a high opinion of Dawnclaw, his hatred of the soldier not coming from his charming personality, but rather what he represented. His crucial role in hunting down intellectuals in the following years after the failed republican revolution earned him a reputation, which was only cemented by the massacres he carried out in the Feathisian-Cloudburian skirmishes with the remnants of the defeated rebels. But the Rector couldn't deny the qualities he carried, he was both respected and feared in equal measure for a reason. He was always in the middle of the chaos, in the thick of the fighting side by side with the soldiers under the gunfire and death. The discipline he instills in his troops is second to none, soldiers may fear him for his reputation but they follow him out of genuine loyalty. They hold an unbreakable trust in him.

His warrior skills and military record against the Republicans were not what caused the most fear, but his huge network of contacts and friends. Ferdinand had managed on the basis of favors, friends, and comrades within the armed forces creating his own small military faction within the army itself. Whatever happened directly or indirectly in the army, Dawnclaw would know.

"Prelate, Oberstleutnant. To what do I owe the pleasure?" he said, trying to maintain a persona of firmness and politeness.

Even so, he would have to keep up appearances, Dawnclaw was a fearsome being, but civility must be maintained before the faculty.

"My Rector, I was on my way to inspect the cathedral when I came across Sir Ferdinand, charming fellow if i say myself!" He would say with an innocent smile as Dawnclaw gave a respectful bow.

"You honor me, Father, I just believe that a devoted follower of Arcturius deserves his due respect."

"You've shown him your respect more than once Ferdinand. You carry his favor in battle!"

"You are too kind Father Michael."

"As much as I would enjoy hearing both of you complimenting each other for the rest of the evening like two lovers on their honeymoon I would like to hear your business into my college Oberstleutnant." He said in the most sarcastic tone he could muster, unexpectedly, the Prelate just burst out laughing and the Officer rolled his eyes.

"Straight to business, I see. Not surprising, you must not place much value on the pleasures of life outside your books." Before Rector had any chance to rebut, he would continue. "But understandably, with the Emperor's arrival imminent, you wouldn't want to waste time with small talk and miss out on a chance to impress His Majesty."

The Albino placed one of his claws over his uniform, and took out an envelope, holding it out to Rector who raised an eyebrow at the action, hesitant to take it "May I inquire what's in it?"

Dawnclaw sighed as he tapped the envelope in the air while showing clear irritation. "It's not poison if that's what you're doubting."

"I have not hinted at anything that would lead to that conclusion."

"Your face says otherwise."

This time it was Rector's turn to feel irritated as he snatched the envelope away, leaving Ferdinand with a smug smile symbolizing his 'victory.'

Opening the envelope and looking inside, he produced a key. Not holding back his confusion he looked back at Dawnclaw, asking an unspoken question.

"That's the key to a safe with half a million in golden imperials." He said with a smile as Mikusian's eyes widened.

"Ferdinand, are you trying to bribe me?" He asked in utter disbelief, not believing the implications the commander dared to make.

"Bribe you? No no... This is a donation, an Incentive to Yale's research and facilities."

The Rector didn't buy it, as Dawnclaw showed mockery in his expression and relaxation in his stance. But he decided to humor the soldier.

"I'm feeling a 'but' in this"

The empire official's smile only grew. "You really are an intellectual." He chuckled quietly to himself. "Yes, as these funds will go towards the Gamia Academy."

"I take that's why the Prelate is with you?" He raised an eyebrow as he glanced at the religious figure, who so far had been content to just watch the back and forth of the Rector and the Obelutnant in silence.

"Indeed!" Michael exclaimed as his wings flapped excitedly. The young Prelate not managing to contain his emotions. "Dawnclaw is not only willing to fund but also donate troops to garrison the research centers. His interest in the new young souls and their protection is most admirable!"

Red flags flashed through Magnificus' mind as he flicked his eyes between the Albino's 'gift' and the two griffons in front of him.

He didn't need a genius to see what the military was after. It wasn't well-intentioned obviously, but to think he'd be so bold as to try to occupy a gym head-on? And in front of their leader? Ferdinand's Audacity had no end.

But he couldn't refuse a 'donation' without good reason, and at the moment he had nothing but suspicions of ill intent. But on what grounds would he veto such an action? A war hero and a priest want to help protect students and on top of that finance their studies, what image would he be passing by refusing?

Mikusian found himself in a difficult position, torn between accepting the supposed donation for the academy and his suspicions about the ulterior motives behind it. He was going to play along. But he is not fooled, not easily. He would let such a 'donation' pass for the moment, not being able to interfere with a private donation, but would keep a close eye on Dawnclaw and his intentions, whatever they may be.

After a moment of contemplation, he put on a diplomatic smile, acknowledging the gesture. "Your generosity is appreciated, Oberstleutnant Dawnclaw, and I assure you that the funds will be put to good use in our research and facilities. We welcome any collaboration that can benefit the education and safety of our students."

Ferdinand nodded, seemingly satisfied with the Rector's response while the Prelate beamed with happiness "Excellent! I knew you'd see the value in this partnership. Gamia and Yale will work hand in claw for the betterment of the empire!"

While putting on a diplomatic front, Mikusian couldn't help but be wary of the situation. He knew that he needed to gather more information and find a way to protect the academy's autonomy and integrity. He had a feeling that Dawnclaw's interest in the Gamia Academy went beyond merely safeguarding students.

But before he could continue, he felt a strong wind at his back, looking back he saw another student landing behind him with haste and concern on his face.

"My Rector! The Emperor has just entered the state borders and will be here in a few minutes!" He could feel the scarlet eyes boring into the back of his head, carrying their registered smug smile.

"Looks like you're needed elsewhere, we won't hold you back any longer than necessary." He nodded to the prelate who smiled warmly back and then gave Rector a low bow. "Let's go, Father Michael."

"My rector." He bowed and followed Dawnclaw.

'What are you planning Ferdinand? What do you want with all this?'

The Rector would fly off after the student, leaving them both behind. Who walked towards the exit.

"I told you he would give you permission, Mikusian is a good griffon."

"That's good, the project will be able to proceed as planned."

The Prelate looked very hesitant "I hope you're right about this Dawnclaw, the plans you're suggesting.... If you're right, we can change the course of history. But if it's wrong...."

"Trust me, Father Michael. Weihe and Auferstehung will bring us all the answers." His scarlet eyes glittered. "The Empire will be saved, one way or another."

"My lord- i mean Grover, I respect and admire you above all else." The Diamond dog asked as taut sweat trickled down his coat. "But this is a BAD idea! We shouldn't be doing this!"

Grover just rolled his eyes. "Relax Loudbark, I know what I'm doing and I know these walls like the claws in my palm." He looked behind them.

Both were crouched behind a bush in the garden of the imperial palace. Having come many times already and having decorated every tree and bush that dominates the scenery. Even so, this did not reassure the Diamond dog.

The Dog had become a great rejuvenation for Grover, proving himself to be a faithful helper and friend. Nights were no longer lonely violin lessons in the moonlight or awkward conversations with guards who were either too scared or too nervous for small talk. Finally, he had someone his own age who had similar interests to play with day to day.

Studies were no longer boring as before, they were still shit, but Loudbark was very well-versed in that area and always gave him a paw whenever he could. Not to mention that he also began to be trained by Uncle Proteus, becoming his training partner.

And now partner in crime.

"Even so! We shouldn't be here! We promised Proteus that we'd be sleeping by this time! If he finds out...."

"He won't relax. I know what I'm doing, and aren't you curious too? Imagine the things we might find there." The Griffon commented with a smile as he worked his way under the massive wall that surrounded the imperial palace.

"But... Why? I thought you were content in just being in the imperial palace!"

That made Grover stop, turning around and looking at his friend. "Content?" He scoffed impatiently. "Rufus, I never have seen anything outside of this palace, I have never met or seen anything that I read in books outside of the balcony of my room. I want to explore! To see the world!"

"I fail to see how sneaking out would help you. Rather I think it would make it even more difficult for you to leave. Could you imagine if your father finds this out?" Loudbark responded with a poker face.

"Just trust me ok?!" He exclaimed impatiently, taking a moment to compose himself before he continued. "Look, we are just gonna go, in and out really fast. I saw the Changeling envoy's going up and down in one of the buildings down in the street by here. And I want to check it out. I WILL go, with or without you." He said seriously while sitting by the wall of the palace. "So? Will you come with me or not?"

"You know the answer Grover. It is my duty to follow you whenever it is stupid or no."

"Good soldier." He answered with a smile, while slowly pushing a bush with his claws, revealing a....

"A... hole?" Loudbark asked with his eyebrows raised. This was unacceptable! This was the imperial palace, it was supposed to be one of the sturdiest and most maintained structures to protect the royal family and their vassals, and there was a hole in the wall?? This was a security threat!

But his train of thought would be cut off when he would only see the back of the future emperor and his tail hitting the sides of the hole, with the rest of his body already inside the wall. "Huh... How strange... The hole- ugh.... It was supposed to be bigger..." Loudbark tried to avert his gaze, not daring to stare back at the heir as he blushed in embarrassment.

"I have a bad feeling about this...."

"Shut up and let's go!" Before he could continue he felt his paw being grabbed tightly and pulled into the hole.

"Wooooah!" The children's eyes sparkled as they looked at the building in front of them, it was absolutely alien compared to the entire city around them which contained classic griffon architecture; concrete houses, glass windows, and bricks. The building they faced contained black walls and instead of being checkered, it looked like a vase or imperfect cone shape. With several holes around and strange flags hanging; white background with a symbol of three crooked horns connected together, and a pair of blue wings coming out of them.

"The flag of the Changelings...!" The Diamond dog exclaimed. With the heir nodding.

"Chryssy already told me a little about what their houses were like, but seeing it myself..."

Loudbark responded with an 'ooooh' as he scratched his chin. "Do you know the queen of the Changelings?" It didn't surprise him that his lord knew such powerful people, but it was still something new to Diamond Dog all the same.

"We're kind of close friends" He would smile at his friend as he walked towards the building. Being followed by Loudbark who remained completely hesitant.

"Hey G, are you sure this is a good idea? We are already in big BIG trouble to be in the open like this without any guards or notice to the others..."

"By Boreas sake Rufus, yes i know. But i already did this two other times, it's not difficult to sneak past the guards. A few weeks ago i did this path and it was all good."

"Yes, because you were little before." The Heir opened his beak to retort, but the shadow of a figure passing between buildings ahead caught their attention.

"To that window! Hurry!" Grover exclaimed as he bolted for the building Changeling with Loudbark, who quickly followed suit, his heart pounding in his chest. They reached the window and crouched below it, trying to stay hidden while they peered inside.

Inside the Changeling building, they saw a spacious room adorned with unique and mesmerizing decorations. The walls seemed to shift colors and patterns, and strange crystal formations glowed softly, illuminating the chamber. Changelings with their shapeshifting abilities were moving about, and engaged in various activities.

It was so alien, yet so fascinating at the same time. Where industrial might was fused with magic. Griffons were never the most magical creatures, meaning their culture focused more on technology. Yet they still used magic crystals for special weapons and emergency messages.

Changelings were almost a fusion. It was so strange but so beautiful.

Grover couldn't help but be curious about the matters being discussed in the building, as it seemed to involve some internal issues within the Griffon Empire and the continent as a whole.

"I wonder what they're talking about," Grover whispered to Loudbark, his eyes fixed on the scene unfolding before them.

"This is not right, Grover, we should leave." Loudbark urged, feeling increasingly uneasy about their intrusion.

"Just a little longer. I want to see if there's anything important. It might help us understand what their intentions are with us." Grover explained, his curiosity getting the better of him. 'Or me in that matter.' He added in his mind.

As they continued to watch, they overheard snippets of the conversation but all of it were more gibberish than proper sentences. The advisors were discussing with each other around a table with the map of a continent, it was not Griffonia. It was Equss, their home continent. More specifically, their nation with many arrows pointing towards a big nation by their border in the west. Being too far away, they couldn't catch a glimpse of the name, but the situation seemed more complex and precarious than Grover had imagined. This was not only a mere diplomatic mission, but a military council discussing war plans.

But why in an embassy in the middle of a foreign Empire? And what they were planning? What was the significance of this particular nation in the West? And most importantly, how did this affect their homeland and their own people?

Feeling a mix of curiosity, responsibility, and a desire to protect his home, Grover wanted to learn more. He whispered to Loudbark, "We need to find a way to get closer and listen more. This could be important!"

Loudbark, though still apprehensive about the whole situation, recognized the importance of the information they might uncover. "Alright, but let's be careful," he replied, trying to keep his voice as low as possible.

The two friends carefully moved along the side of the building, searching for another vantage point that would allow them to listen in on the conversation without being detected. They finally found a slightly open window on the opposite side of the room they had been observing.

With great caution, they approached the window and peeked inside. From this new angle, they could hear more clearly what the Changeling advisors were discussing. But, before they could continue their spying upon the council, they heard a loud 'thump' behind them. Looking back alarmed, they found two guards staring straight at them, two pairs of blue orb-like eyes penetrating their souls and making them yelp in alarm.

Caught red-handed, Grover and Loudbark froze in fear as the Changeling guards confronted them. One of the guards, a tall and imposing figure, stepped forward and spoke in a stern voice, "What are you two doing here? This is a restricted area."

Grover's heart raced, and he tried to think of a quick excuse. "Uh, we got lost, and we were just trying to find our way back," he stammered, hoping the Changelings would buy his lie.

The guard didn't seem convinced and narrowed his eyes suspiciously. Not seeing to recognize both youngsters. "Lost, huh? Two youngsters in the middle of the night, sneaking around a diplomatic embassy? That doesn't sound very believable."

Loudbark, feeling a surge of courage, decided to take a different approach. "Look, we didn't mean any harm. We're just curious about your culture and wanted to learn more. We're from the neighborhood and didn't mean to intrude."

The other guard, a bit smaller than the first one, seemed to soften slightly at Loudbark's words. "Curious, you say? Why would a Griffon and a Diamond dog be interested in Changeling culture?"

Grover saw an opportunity and quickly spoke up, "I've heard stories about your people, and I wanted to see it for myself. We mean no harm, I promise."

The guards exchanged glances, seemingly unsure of what to do with these unexpected intruders. The larger guard, however, remained stern. "You'll have to come with us. We need to report this to our superiors."

Grover's heart sank, realizing they were in serious trouble. "Please, we didn't mean any harm. Can't you just let us go?"

The Changeling guards didn't seem convinced by Grover's plea, and the stern look on their faces indicated that they were not willing to let the youngsters off easily. The larger guard spoke again, his voice firm, "I'm sorry, but we have strict protocols to follow. Despite both of you looking like little hatchlings, intruders in a diplomatic embassy must be reported to our superiors for further investigation."

Loudbark glanced at Grover, worried about the consequences they might face for their impulsive decision to spy on the Changelings. He knew they had to be cautious in handling this situation. "Is there any way you can just let us leave...? Please...?"

The smaller guard seemed a bit more sympathetic, but he still followed the protocols. "It's not up to us to decide. You'll have to explain yourselves to our superiors, and they'll determine how to proceed."

Grover swallowed hard, realizing that they had no choice but to comply.

The guards motioned for them to follow, and the two kids obediently did so. They were led through the Changeling embassy, which was even more mesmerizing and intricate up close. The walls seemed to pulsate with magic, and the entire place felt like an enigma wrapped in mystery.

As they walked, Loudbark couldn't help but ask, "Do you think they'll report this to the Griffon authorities right...? We could get into serious trouble."

Grover sighed, realizing the gravity of the situation. "We are already- Pardon me for such words, in deep shit."

Eventually, they were brought before a set of massive doors, resembling those he would find in the entrance of the palace and important rooms. When both guards pushed the doors open, they found themselves into what it looked like a massive... Bedroom...?

"Your majesty, we implore your forgiveness for interrupting you in your daily routines, we however have a situation...."

'Your majesty...?' Grover asked himself with risen eyebrows.

"What situation in damn tartarus would require my-" An absolutely furious Chrysalis would appear by the doors, her hair messy and a brush still stuck in her hair while she roared in anger, stopping middle sentence as her eyes hit both of them. "Grover...? What the hell are you doing here?"

Both guards widened their eyes and looked at the only griffon in the room in a state of absolute shock. "THE PRINCE GROVER??" Many changeling heads popped up by the walls, doors, and even roofs in curiosity at the commotion in the royal suit.

Grover sweatdropped as he felt the hundreds of eyes directed at him. "Daddy is gonna kill me."

And Loudbark could only facepaw in response.

Author's Note

Grover is gonna get the spanking of a life-time by either his father or Chrysalis haha

Prelate Michael

Rector Magnificus Mikusian (Yes that is his name)

Also, expect some minor errors, this is me who we are talking about after all.

14 - A child's Mistake

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE 'VANISHED'!?" He screamed in his rear area, his claws trembling with fury as he glared at a poor guard who remained absolutely cowering in fear of his superior's fury. "None of the most experienced soldiers on the continent managed to accomplish one task as simple as this?!?"

"I-I swear your holiness! We have searched the royal gardens, all the rooms in the palace, and even the rooftops where he has been caught stargazing. He is not in any of the places, he has not come out of any of the entrances or flown out of the palace! He just disappeared!" The Archon ran his claws through the fur on his forehead as he gnashed his beak. This couldn't be happening. The boy was walking in the gardens a few hours ago, his daily routine before saying goodbye to his vassal and going to sleep.

'This is bad, really bad.' The emperor was supposed to arrive the next day. There are already reports that his health is in a critical situation. If he arrived and discovered that the heir had simply disappeared, there was a very high chance that the stress of the event would make him faint, or worse, his few remaining organs would simply stop there.

And then what? The incapacitated or possibly dead monarch, and his missing heir, was a vessel for disaster. An empire without a monarch was the same as a ship without its mast, it would be ungoverned and aimless. A full plate for ambitious nobles to destroy what was left of the weak government with their imbecility and greed.

He needed to find Grover, at any cost.

His thoughts were stopped by the loud bang of a door being slammed open, colliding with the wall. Revealing Eros in his sleep garments. He wasn't happy.

"Proteus, it's almost three in the morning, what the fuck is this commotion? I could hear screaming from the cathedral for fuck's sake!" He shouted at his fellow archon while scratching one of his sleepy eyes.

"Grover is missing."

The Boreas follower's anger evaporated almost immediately. "Missing...?" A look of despair entered his face just as fast.

Proteus nodded gravely, the urgency of the situation weighing heavily on him. "Yes, missing," he replied with a tone of worry. "None of the guards can find him anywhere in the palace, and we've searched every possible place he could be. We need to find him before the emperor arrives. If he discovers his heir is missing in his fragile state, it could lead to chaos."

Eros, now fully awake and alert, ran a claw through the tousled fur in his head, contemplating the dire situation. "Alright, alright. Let's not panic just yet," he said, attempting to reassure both himself and Proteus. "There must be some explanation for this. Grover couldn't have just vanished into thin air. Did anygriff see anything unusual?"

"No, nothing. Patrols were uneventful as usual, all exits are guarded and the flying patrols didn't see anything. He just vanished."

Eros sighed deeply, his mind racing to come up with a plan. "We need to organize a thorough search immediately," he said firmly. "Gather all available royal guards. Have them comb through the palace and its surroundings with a fine-toothed comb. Check every hidden passage, and every secret chamber, and question every servant and staff member. We can't leave any stone unturned."

Proteus nodded, relieved that Eros was taking charge of the situation. "I'll get the search teams organized right away," he replied. "We also need to inform the garrison discreetly. If Grover has been abducted or is in danger, we'll need all the manpower we can get available."

Eros agreed with a grim expression. "Yes, you're right. We can't rule out foul play. Someone might have had a motive to kidnap him or harm him. Send out messengers immediately, but make sure they keep this information confidential. We don't want to cause unnecessary panic."

"I will inform the imperial council of this immediately, Gabriela is-" Proteus was interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps approaching from the corridor outside. A Soldier burst into the room, he was a diamond dog wearing a royal guard uniform, he approached both of them and saluted both.

"Holy archons." the newcomer exclaimed. "We've just received a message from the emperor's advance guard. They're arriving ahead of schedule. They'll be here by dawn!"

Eros cursed under his breath. The situation had just gone from bad to worse. With the emperor's early arrival, there was even less time to locate Grover and prevent a potential catastrophe. "Forget the damn council, they wouldn't arrive in time anyways!"

"Eros, you know we can't possibly do such a thing! Tensions among us and the Noble's are already bad enough, if they see we are moving troops around without notifying them they might come to the conclusion we are mobilizing and might do something to intervene. Causing an even bigger catastrophe than we already have on our claws!"

"Then what the fuck do you expect us to do??? Fuck all?? If the noble's get bitchy let them! Grover is more important than any of them!" He was taken aback once Eros turned around to him and shouted to his face. Eros took a deep breath, trying to calm his frustration in the face of this dire situation. He knew Proteus was right about the delicate political balance they were dealing with, but the urgency of the moment demanded action. "I apologize for losing my temper," Eros said, his voice steadier now. "We can't afford to wait for the council's approval. We'll have to mobilize our forces discreetly and keep the nobles in the dark for now. We'll deal with the consequences later if we have to. Our priority is finding Grover and ensuring the empire's stability."

Proteus nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation despite not agreeing with the decision. The trust he had in his old friend overshadowed his doubts and worries. "I'll make the necessary arrangements immediately. We'll need to act swiftly and decisively." He turned to the newly arrived guard. "Soldier, name and rank."

The diamond dog responded almost immediately with another salute. "Benito Haupthetzen, sir!"

This raised an eyebrow from the elderly Archon. "Benito? The one credited with personally saving the emperor's life in 978?"

A small puff of pride came from the dog. "Yes sir!" The archon nodded satisfied with the servile diligence of the soldier.

"Then I know i can trust you with this task." He patted the royal guard on the shoulders. "The palace is for now on in lockdown, no one leaves or enters without permission. I want every guard, servant, and civilian that came and went through the castle's vicinity in the last 2 hours. No one shall be spared from being questioned and interrogated, understood?"

"Yes sir!"

"Get to it, soldier!" The Archon of Arcturius shouted, Benito saluted and nodded. Immediately rushed outside of the room with a retinue of soldiers following him. He returned his attention to Eros that just finished writing something.

"What are you doing?"

"Preparing a letter for our Changeling 'Allies'." The realization dawned in Proteus as Eros rolled his letter in his claws. And walked out of the room, Proteus following him.

"You think they are behind this?" Eros shook his head in uncertainty.

"I give a 50/50 chance they might, either they know something about this or they are definitively involved in this. Knowing how Chrysalis loves to spend time with the heir, I have no doubts that having Grover around her disgusting hooves would be something 'favorable' for that vile cockroach. If she doesn't talk, we will make her talk." Proteus blushed at the anger Eros radiated with each word talked involving Chrysalis.

"Don't let her hear you this, you know how much volatile her ego is."

He just scoffed. "I couldn't give a hoot for what that megalomaniac thinks about me, we both know our alliance is only of interests and nothing more."

Proteus just sighed. "You could at least try to hide your animosity when meeting them."

"Will do my best." He was lying.

His fellow archon could only look bemused. "I am serious Eros, for Arcturius sake, let's try to NOT escalate this further, we have enough enemies as it is."

"Will do my best." He repeated with the same unconvincing tone as before.

"We're here." He says in a neutral tone as he gets off the train. Its loud whistles cut through the noise of the heavy drops falling on the metal tiles.

The station was in a very quiet state, few living souls walked through the train stop at midnight, much less in a period of uncertainty that they found themselves in, leaving the place that was already slow and with little presence even more deserted. Combined with the rain, it took away the desire of many more Griffons to travel.

Perfect for an unobtrusive arrival.

On a technicality, he is in the capital as ordered, but a few hours in advance. As the Emperor returns from his much-publicized journey visiting every corner of the empire, his safety is essential, especially upon his arrival home at a scheduled time published in the newspapers. Extra security was needed in case any Republican sympathizers or Aquileian spies attempted funny business.

Therefore, his orders were to arrive in the capital in the afternoon with his divisions to stop in the city and ensure order.

And he was doing exactly as ordered, the top brass didn't need to know about the 'unorthodox' activities that were going on behind the scenes. Not for Dawnclaw.

"Is everything okay?" He just grunted in annoyance at the interruption of his thoughts as he looked at the source of the voice. "You've been staring into space for a few minutes now."

His companion wore a huge brown cloak that surrounded his entire body, Dawnclaw's idea to keep him anonymous, using the rain as an excuse. Even with constant complaining, he did it.

The albino would never admit it, but if it weren't for the irreplaceable usefulness of his company he would have already put a bullet between that crybaby's eyes. But Dawnclaw was patient, he had already waited years for this moment, and a few more days with unpleasant company would be nothing he couldn't handle.

Everything was going as planned, the pieces were already being placed and the gears were in motion. After weeks of jumping from state to state, recruiting allies, and gaining the loyalty of battalions across the entire empire. Everything was ready for the big moment.

"Hi? Can you hear me? Calling Dawnclaw ring-ring-ring!" The hooded figure would snap two of its claws together making a 'Snap' sound with each 'ring' he said.

Even after so much work, he was still debating with himself whether it wouldn't be better for him to just end this annoying pain in the ass.

He slapped the figure's claw from his face as he growled. "I'll break your claws if you don't knock that shit off."

The figure stepped back while holding its claws in a surrendering motion. "Hey hey! It's not my fault you're zoning out. For a soldier, you have a pretty bad attention span."

"It's hard to keep my concentration when I'm with a chicken that can't shut up." He growled as he walked out of the station, the train having closed its doors and leaving behind them.

"Aren't you a rain of sunshine?" The figure asked while jokingly scoffing.

Dawnclaw shot a piercing glare at his hooded companion, his icy blue eyes narrowing. "You really have a knack for testing my patience, don't you?"

The hooded figure chuckled, undeterred by Dawnclaw's irritation. "Oh, come on, Dawnclaw. We're in the heart of the Empire's capital, about to embark on a mission of utmost importance. A little banter helps ease the tension."

Dawnclaw couldn't help but shake his head in exasperation. "Ease the tension, you say? More like pushing all my fucking buttons."

The figure's hood bobbed in a nod as they continued walking through the dimly lit streets. "Well, you've got to admit, it's better than silence. Besides, you're stuck with me on this little 'mission', might as well make the best of it."

Dawnclaw grunted, recognizing the truth in those words. He couldn't deny the usefulness of his companion, even if their personalities clashed. "Just shut up. We have a job to do, and I'd prefer not to draw any more attention than necessary. I'd rather not be seen with an enemy of the state, much less joking with one."

The hooded figure flashed a grin within its now-revealed beak beneath the concealing cloak. "Don't worry, Dawnclaw. I'll be on my best behavior."

"You better, you idiot toymaker. For your own sake."

A tense silence came as they continued their walk, now entering the capital. Passing a sign that had arrows pointing directions, taking the one that led to the Griffenheim Military Command.

Author's Note

Military deployment sucks, but it is finally ending. And i finally managed to finish this! (I actually had finished this a week ago, but i wanted to try to polish a little more of this chapter. Not that it changed a lot lol.) Hope you enjoyed it!

15 - The End of the Beginning

"Are you sure about this Gerlach??" She questioned. "That information can't be right!"

"Yes it is, it comes from a trustworthy voice. I can vouch for the spy, he is loyal." He kept his expression neutral, lying about the mental turmoil that was going through his mind.

Before he stood Gabriela, her white silk nightwear rumpled as she sat on her bed with an expression of utter shock. All her fur is messy pink. Gerlach maintained his calm face with his iconic armor even though inside he was as panicked as Gabriela, but they had to keep their minds free of doubts if they were to make decisions and lead in such a critical moment.

Rumors were already circulating. Troops were moving without orders and refusing to give explanations. The city was almost under an unofficial martial law.

"A-are you sure Gerlach..? Are you 100% sure?"

"Yes, Gabriela." The black-furred Griffon was annoyed by him needing to repeat himself, however, he couldn't blame her.

When the spy came to himself, he couldn't hold back his gasp and shock at the information he brought. Movement of troops without orders on the capital, the disappearance of the heir, and inspections without any reason.

All in less than 2 hours.

She let out a sigh and steeled her resolve. She got up from her bed, holding her slipping clothes with one claw. "Gerlach go rally the other nobles, tell them it's urgent. I will catch up with you." She told him as she walked towards her closet.

"What are you gonna do?" He asked with curiosity.

"Me?" She asked with a tone of sarcasm. "I have an Archon to confront."

This wasn't in the plan.

It was supposed to be just a long extended vacation, come and go. Her reforms took much time, and she could still manage things from her little 'quarters' in the embassy. Plant some seeds of discord here, and steal some of that powerful love over there. And so far, everything had gone according to plan.

For a predator like her, there was little worry. When your kind is treated and seen as a plague before the world that must be eradicated with extreme abhorrence, trust was a raw material in short supply among the changelings.

But a contradiction arose before her.

Between her back hooves more specifically.

A sleeping griffon with his royal regalia. The back of his head rested on her back hoofs as he snored softly. She struggled not to make the grinding of her teeth in annoyance be heard by the children. Because it wasn't just Grover who was here, but a dog, from another royal family, who had also invaded the embassy without permission.

She was in the middle of her daily hygiene before retiring to her sleeping cocoon. Only to be interrupted by guards bringing in two 'miscreants'. Meeting Grover, the little heir she had 'friended', along with a little friend of his. Both smiling nervously while clearly wanting to be somewhere far away from there.

He had grown a lot. She at first didn't even recognize Grover on how much he had grown since they last saw each other just less than a few months ago.

But she ignored it for the most part as the two boys tried to explain why they were there, but they only managed to throw false lies boasting false admiration for her race as a justification for the infiltration attempt. You couldn't lie to a master of lies. But she knew the real reason, and she felt more concern than anything else.

On one hand, her private mission to create a strong bond with the boy as quickly as possible was an incredible success. The changeling queen was proud to be considered a goddess of manipulation, one who perfected her emotions and mastered the art of cunning and scheming.

She could see his emotions better than anyone, she could read him like a book.

The boy was lost, suspicious, nervous, but most of all. Disillusioned.

She couldn't resist feeling sorry for the boy, even though her shell was cold, she managed to put herself in the boy's shoes. A young man who discovered that he was just a political object to be used by everyone around him, his friends only wanted him for power, and his father, his only source of affection and true love, was just a slip on the stairs away from handing over the crown.

It was almost uncanny how similar their upbringings were.

The boy had no one else to turn to, so he came to her, the only friend he made whom he believes has nothing to use him for.

Poor boy, so innocent, she wasn't any different from the others.

But he had done it right, because, unlike the others, she had no political interest in him, instead, she had an interest in his source of life. But now? She had something more, a curiosity about little Griffon's capabilities, how far he would go, on his journey to madness or domination, or perhaps both.

Through the love he shared, she also got to see a little more of Grover's true face.

He was different, not just in how he thought towards her, but also in something different within him. She knew it from the love in its potency and sweetness. Love given was more effective than stolen? Or was it just Grover? She had to look into it more. But that was as far as she could see, even the changeling queen in all her power and capabilities still had a limit to how far she could observe him on the surface.

But one thing was certain, the boy was different, not just in body. Already demonstrated in his absurd growth. He was something new. And the Queen would watch his career with great interest.

Yet, from what she could see, the plan had backfired, hard. And now she had walked into a dead end.

Clouds gathered over Griffenhein, the Griffon empire despite its nickname of 'Sick Bird of Griffonia' was still a powerhouse of respect and strength. It was reflected in its total dominance over Herzland, a very populated and industrial region of the Griffonia. But it was just a shadow of her former self, of the empire's total domination over the continent. But still, the monumental power that whoever took over the regency would gain on the day the emperor perished, would be too much of an opportunity for a stubborn and power-hungry race like the Griffons to let pass.

The Queen of Changelings, despite the looming danger and uncertainty, couldn't help but see the potential in the unexpected presence of the young heir. She considered the situation carefully, weighing the risks and opportunities that lay before her. The involvement of the griffon heir added a layer of complexity and danger that she hadn't anticipated.

But she would adapt, Changelings always did.

Her thoughts were cut off when someone knocked on the other side of her royal bedroom doors for the second time that night. She would have been extremely irritated at being disturbed again, but today was an exception, tonight was becoming too important for her to be irritated or care about such trivial things, communicating through the hive mind connected with her subjects by her magic, she permitted him to enter, asking to be silent so as not to wake the children.

Two changelings entered the room, following instructions, galloping so silently that no vibrations were felt as their hooves collided with the floor. Their race, after so many eons of needing to hide from hostile forces, made them masters of the art of being subtle. Necessary for your operations in other nations.

But the queen didn't admire her race good traits as much as she needed to, focusing on the appearance of the two who entered, both were wearing officers' uniforms, one younger than the other.

They both stopped in front of her, taking glances with their eyebrows raised, unable to contain their surprise at the... Scene they saw.

Chrysalis just growled as she rolled her eyes. "What is it now?"

The soldier snapped out of his trance as he trotted at his queen and bowed. "Your Majesty, what you predicted is occurring."

She raised an eyebrow. "Carry on."

"The church and the nobles acted exactly as you expected, the city is in chaos, troops marching through the streets and the city is some disagreements away from a full-on battle. Each side telling the other to stand down while neither has the authority to arrest or stop the other. Both are on a standoff while another percentage of the garrison is not responding to orders from both factions."

This was worrying, she already expected all this to happen, it was obvious with both factions waiting for the fall of the Emperor and their rushed attempts to take the Regency, but she expected a few weeks later for the Emperor to die, when she would be already well far off into Equus, and safe from the potential civil war that would spark into what was left of the empire. Something had encouraged them to act preventively. "Both sides believe the other of trying some coup, while both are searching for something."

'Who they are searching rather' She thought with a deadpan look while giving a low glance at the still soundly sleeping heir.

"There are also reports of the Emperor's personal train just reached the city's border, he will be here at any minute."

This was alarming, he wasn't supposed to arrive so soon. Something changed, everything was happening very quickly. The conflict between factions, the Heir disappearing, and the Emperor's early arrival. And now she's somehow gotten herself in the middle of all this BY ACCIDENT.

She hit her hoof on her forehead in frustration. How did this happen?? She was smarter than this!

She let out a sigh but ignored her frustration and looked at the second soldier, who remained silent and let his companion deliver the bad news to the queen.

The one addressing her had nothing that stood out from the rest of the soldiers. But the other one? She recognized him very well, even noticing his queen's eyes falling on him, who swallowed dryly when his eyes connected with hers.

She couldn't stop a predatory smile from leaving her face.

"Ahh Thranx, you came as ordered." She watched with pleasure as the officer held back from looking away from her out of fear.

"Of course your majesty, when you called me I came as quickly as I could."

"Very good, I liked your enthusiasm. You must be pleased with your newest relocation." His heart felt like it was hooked by that. 'Well, he likes it here, a little too much in fact.'

"Re... Relocation...? My... My queen, this is unnecessary-" A look from Chrysalis silenced him almost immediately.

"I hope my hearing isn't failing right now Thranx, because I don't believe one of my precious Changelings would have the AUDACITY to defy me..." She had listened very well, but she wanted to teach him a lesson. But she couldn't stay in a bad mood even with Thranx's intolerable insubordination, the terror on his face brought her more and more pleasure. Seeing sweat start to drip down his carapace, his nervous smile trying to contain his true feelings and failing miserably.

She loved playing with such insignificant beings and their feelings.

"I have never in my life Your Majesty!" He exclaimed in nervousness. "I live only to serve the hive and the lady!"

Even though she wanted to play with him a little more, she knew she didn't have time, just nodding her head with a predatory smile. "Good...~"

She then gave a look at the boy under her, patting him softly. "You will now be his guardian." She said while keeping her eyes focused on the heir while still directing her conversation with Thranx, who looked taken aback.

"Guardian...? But...-"

Her eyes narrowed.

"O-o-of course Your Majesty! I would be more than happy!" He of course wouldn't.

"You will take care of him, his little 'vassal' for now wouldn't be able to do anything if a group of thugs would try to hurt him. Much more so now that the battle for the regency is beginning. This boy has my interest, and if he dies, you shall be held responsible for it, does I make myself clear?"

"Crystal m'am!"

"Good" she replied with a smile, she felt a huge discomfort and desperation between her legs. The heir was awake and listening to the conversation. But he still pretended to be sleeping.

Chrysalis didn't know how much of the conversation the little one heard, but she was pleased that he heard it. He would try to escape and return to the castle as soon as possible, his recklessness was shown in his attempts to spy on the embassy out of pure curiosity, and Chrysalis had already given orders if they noticed the Griffon and his dog escaping, to allow them to escape.

However, she knew one thing that all the Griffons across the continent did not. Grover's true appearance.

The Griffon was the height and size of a pre-teen. And with his father having tried to keep him secret as much as possible, with no public appearances since his birthday, almost no one other than the emperor's closest guards and a few ministers would know that he is the crown prince.

They would be unable to enter the castle, and his father would be unable to do anything. Her spies had already reported how quickly the Emperor's health was deteriorating, and if the reports were true, he would not survive the day after his arrival. If he had stepped back from his duties and worried a little more about his health he would have survived longer, but it seems that Dad is desperate to keep his kingdom together.

'What a tragedy' She thought with a mental laugh.

Once again, he will be alone, without help or friends. (Apart from that stupid dog.) With your soldiers too worried about possible imposters or infiltrators they will deny him entry.

Again he will return to her. The only true friend he had, the only one who welcomed him even when he invaded her house while everyone else shunned him at the moment he needed it most. The only one without 'ulterior' motives. The perfect justification for using her troops in the capital to march to the palace with Grover in her hoofs.

Having 'saved' him and being the only one who has the heir's blessing, she would have all the legitimacy she needs to establish a Changeling administration as heirs. She would have conquered a new kingdom without firing a single shot, a future puppet king with claims to the entire continent, a whole new source of manpower and resources to use against Equestria.

Her predatory smile almost cut her face in two. 'Empress Chrysalis, Conqueror of Equestria and Queen of Griffonkind. That doesn't sound bad at all.' She couldn't contain her evil chuckle from coming out of her.

"uhh... Your majesty..?"

'Oh right.' She had totally forgotten the predicament she found herself at the moment. Coming back to reality she noticed that both soldiers were watching her with clear concern on their faces.

"You are both dismissed. Do not forget your orders Thranx." They both bowed, one with less enthusiasm than the other, and both left. She then returned her attention to the boy on her lap, still pretending to be asleep, his despair replaced by immense discomfort.

She smiled even more thinking about how innocent he was for a Griffon, not knowing that Changelings could sense emotions.

Forming her most friendly voice, one she has been training since birth, she slowly and gently shook his head with her front hoof. "Grovy? Wake up Grovy."

The little one pretended to groan in discomfort as he stretched. Slowly opening his right eye and looking at Chrysalis. "Mornin...." He greeted her sheepishly. "It is morning.... Right...?"

He was hiding his tension very well.

"Soon the sun will rise Grovy, but I have something to tell you." Chrysalis hid it too, it was a game of seeing who could mask their intentions best. A game that the Queen was a master at.

"Seriously, what..?" He showed (or feigned) cautious curiosity as he stood up and sat down next to her. His faithful dog was up too. Far away but observant of them.

"Your father is on his way, he'll be back in town in a few minutes." The boy opened his eyes wide and his beak dropped in surprise. Again, it was a lie. "You better get back before he arrives."

"Oh my god! What time is it??" He asked worriedly, showing a genuine reaction.

"Almost four of the morning" She smiled internally seeing the boy's desperate face. 'It would be more accurate to say your clock has struck midnight my dear heir.'

"I-I have to go!"

"Of course." She smiled fondly. "Go where you came from. If you managed to sneak in here, you'll be able to get out, right?" He nodded his head.

"Good... Go, remember, if you need me. I'll always be here for you." She closed her eyes and gave a huge friendly smile as she gave the little one a hug which he returned.

They both ran out the door to her room. Leaving her alone. Her smile turned predatory as she stood alone, still looking at the last traces of the boys.

The street was in chaos, very late at night with the moon at the top of the sky, troops lined up in a street next to the palace stood ready, their armor of griffon knights bearing the emblem of Arcturius was firm and proud. Weapons were ready and behind temporary barricades as they faced another group also heavily armed.

"In the name of the Archons, Stand down! If not for them, then for the authority given to us by the gods! Return to your posts" The officer roared as he flew above the Church troops and faced the adversaries in front of him, troops carrying the green banner, with Grabriela's strawberry on its emblems.

"You have no authority here, parasites of the church!" One of the soldiers in the formation loyal to Gabriela roared. "Do not use the name of the gods in vain, worms!" Another followed along.

"Godless Heathens!" A soldier from the church below him shouted while pointing an accusatory claw. "The Emperor will not be threatened!" Another joined in his comrade's support.

"Threatened?? We are here to save him from your dirty hands you fucking rat!"

This shouting continued an exchange of insults by troops on both sides. They were in this stand-off for hours. Any sense of discipline had been thrown away some time ago with soldiers loyal to the nobles agitated by the Archons' supposed betrayal.

Scenes like this took place all over the city, with troops from both sides in stand-offs and some even fighting without orders in the streets. However, until now, the ranks-in-file have been kept in line by their officers, with both sides stubbornly remaining firm in their stances.

The officer descended and landed among his soldiers, the night light illuminated his gray fur as two Griffons approached him, the senior officers of the platoon that was in that area. "Sir, I recommend we break this stalemate, the puppets of the nobles prove that their greed prevents them from seeing that we are on a tight schedule."

"We can't, the orders are not to start a conflict. Just to find the heir. Besides, we have civilians in the vicinity." He commented as he pointed with the thumb of his right claw behind him at the buildings. And as the officer looked he could see in the windows rows and rows of Griffons watching in shock.

This was bad, a stray bullet had an easy chance of hitting someone.

The officer creaked his beak, frustration was evident in his eyes. He knew that the longer this standoff persisted, the greater the risk of chaos erupting. With a determined look, he addressed his officers, "We can't afford to let this continue. We need to disperse them without escalating the conflict. Form a defensive line and pressure them back, but do not engage unless they shot first."

The senior officers nodded, relaying the orders to their respective units. Griffon knights on the Archons' side tightened their formation, guns raised and at the ready. On the other side, Gabriela's soldiers mirrored the defensive stance, eyes fixed on their adversaries.

As the officers coordinated the movement, the tension reached its peak. The soldiers exchanged hostile glares, each side waiting for the other to make a move.

The officer took a deep breath and his voice raised once again, addressing both sides. "This city is on the brink of disaster. We cannot let it fall into chaos. Lower your weapons, step back, and allow us to carry out our duty peacefully. There will be consequences if you obstruct us."

His words fell on deaf ears as both factions remained steadfast in their positions. The officer shook his head, realizing that reason was not prevailing tonight, tensions were too high and Griffons were stubborn creatures, by both fear and pride they wouldn't let themselves be ordered by someone other than their superiors.

Without further hesitation, the senior officers on both sides signaled their troops. Slowly, the two factions began to inch away from each other, creating a narrow gap. The air was thick with tension as the standoff continued, but for now, a fragile semblance of order was maintained.

'So far so good....'

The officer glanced over his shoulder at the civilians in the nearby buildings, their eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. He knew that the situation could escalate at any moment, and the responsibility weighed heavily on his shoulders as he prepared for the next phase of this tumultuous night.

The officer signaled his troops to slowly start moving backward, maintaining a defensive formation. The soldiers, although complying with the orders, kept their eyes locked on their adversaries, distrust and animosity lingering in the air like an oppressive fog.

As the gap widened between the two factions, a sudden movement caught the officer's attention.

Sounds of claws clashing concrete came from a street between the two forces that only proved to be relevant now. Chill ran down the officer's spine. He had made a mistake. No reports of reinforcements.

'Curse! I didn't expect another force on the way! We might be outflanked!' Turning quickly to inform his companions- "It's the Royal Guard!"

His thoughts were cut off and he stopped mid-spin. 'Royal Guard?' He thought in surprise, turning again at the sounds of marching. He would see the troops that shouted to be revealed in the moonbeams. With their armor well polished and forged from the purest iron, their helmets and visors shining before the moonlight of Griffenheim.

They were the Emperor's guard. 'Here?? Now?? But the Emperor wouldn't come until the next day!' Even so, the guards were there, stopping right at the exit of the street that connected to the intersection of the streets where the two troops faced each other. And a figure quickly suffled by the armored knights, pushing the guards out of the way, he revealed himself as the emperor. In all his royal regalia with glory and splendor.

And he wasn't happy.

"WHAT THE HELL IS THIS??" He wasn't happy at all.

Archonite soldiers and nobles looked at each other in shock and concern. Muttering worriedly as some officers stepped forward to find the emperor.

"M-my Emperor! Y-you are here!" A noble official exclaimed with relief mixed with surprise.

"Of course I'm here! I expected a worry-free arrival and instead, I find my troops READY TO KILL THEMSELVES!" He shouted at them, now positioning himself between both groups who showed extreme discomfort and some shame at the Emperor's berating. "ONE WEEK! I CAN'T GO OUT FOR A WEEK WITHOUT SOME SHIT LIKE THIS HAPPE-" He cut himself off mid-rant.

A silence permeated as the soldiers remained silent waiting for the Emperor to continue.

"Y-your majesty...?" One dared to speak.

But the emperor still maintained his hateful face as his beak opened and closed as if he was trying to speak. But no words came out. His face then changed drastically, from hatred to confusion, and from confusion to horror. He breathed in deep, long breaths as he seemed to gasp suddenly as he gripped and squeezed his imperial regalia tightly.

"Y-your majesty?!" He asked, now approaching with concern and tension.

The emperor then, after freezing, fell. It was as if he fell in slow motion, everyone looked on in disbelief and shock. The most powerful Griffon on the continent, the master of Griffonia and emperor of what was one of the greatest states the world had ever seen. Having his body crashing on the stone-hard concrete.

The moment his body hit the ground. The trance that the troops had been in since the beginning of the Emperor's angry outburst was broken. An explosion of ensued movements and chaos reigned. The Royal Guard broke ranks and rushed to help their emperor, while the soldiers of the rival troops ran like headless chickens and their officers who tried to reorganize them.

He managed to get together with his non-commissioned officers and created a perimeter around the fallen Emperor. He did not see the monarch among the conglomeration of guards that surrounded him.

Civilians were now coming out of the buldings were running everywhere, and some even tried to penetrate the groups of soldiers to see or reach the emperor for reasons he did not understand but did not allow for to happen.

In the confusion and chaos, in the midst of them shouting orders and soldiers pushing civilians back. He saw a kid, from what he could see he was 13 to 15 years old, just a pre-teen. Pass through the line of soldiers and to possibly attack the Emperor while he screamed like a howling banshee.

He didn't know what he was planning or why he took such a sudden action, if the boy had more nefarious reasons or if he was delusional that he could save the emperor and become a hero. But he immediately, almost instinctively, acted. Using his wings he propelled himself towards the brat and crashed into him before he could get close to the royal guard, who were already prepared to take the boy down with weapons drawn.

"STAY ON THE GROUND KID! STAY ON THE GROUND!" He screamed as he kept the boy pressed to the ground. He could see that the boy had an aristocratic outfit and caramel fur, the boy seemed to cry as he struggled desperately.

"NO NO! GET OFF OF ME! GET OFF OF ME! I HAVE TO GO TO HIM! DADDY!!" The boy whimpered as he struggled desperately. The officer growled in disgust seeing the boy acting like a baby, from the looks of it, he was the son of a nobleman. Children of said rich fucks who acted without thinking about the consequences who now was shouting for his father to save him from the consequences of his actions by his own claws. Typical.

But before he could do anything else, he screamed in pain as he felt his shoulder being pierced by dozens of what felt like sharp knives, instinctively he got up and released the kid and tried to struggle to get out whatever the fuck stuck in him. Seeing a diamond dog he had sunk its teeth into him.

With a roar, he sunk his claws in the dog and threw it over his shoulder, which landed rolling on the concrete in front of him but was quickly back on its feet.

"I don't know why the fuck you decided to attack me kid, but you are royally fucked." The officer growled under his beak as he ran his claw over his shoulder, feeling blood running down and staining his uniform. The Diamond dog roared and prepared to lunge.

Only to be hit in the skull with a butt of a rifle by a soldier behind him. The little dog was so focused on him that he had totally forgotten to pay attention to his surroundings. Being knocked out and falling hard to the ground.

"Holy shit sir, are you okay?" The soldier quickly ran to where he was, inspecting the wound.

"That's nothing, apprehend the two suspects who-" He cut himself off when he realized that one of the two miscreants was gone. The griffon that had tried to reach the emperor disappeared. He snorted as he looked at the soldier who had finished bandaging his wound.

"Sir? Do you want me to chase the boy?"

"No, ignore him, we have more important things to worry about." He replied as he watched the emperor being carried on a stretcher by the royal guard to the palace. "I feel like we're going to have a lot of work to do from now on."

He was panting, with his back to the wall he looked around the street desperately as he hid in the alley, finding only the streets at night empty. He can then let his body relax a little, sliding down the wall until he sits on the cold floor.

Tears still ran down his messy fur. He ran his hand over the mark he had on his neck when he was thrown to the ground by the soldier.

A soldier of the empire, he was one of its subjects.

Why did he attack him??

Why didn't he let him see his daddy???

He could still see the fight and struggle between the guard and Loudbark as he flew in despair.

As he ran away...

He abandoned Loudbark....

'Oh my god I left him behind!'

His father's words echoed through his head; "When a friend is willing to stick with you, helping you at your worst moment, when he could abandon you to save himself and yet he chooses to go into the fire to help you instead, that demonstrates the greatest symbol of brotherhood you can have. A friend willing to die for you, but you must be willing to do the same!"

He abandoned his friend in his time of need when he went headfirst into his defense of him.

He grabbed his face as he sobbed more and more. Why was this happening to him? Why was this happening to him?

He just wanted to have fun tonight, he just wanted to explore. He didn't want that! He didn't want any of this!

He failed his father and didn't help him when he needed it most. He failed his best friend and abandoned him at the first opportunity out of fear and now he was without anyone. He was alone.

Grover slowly curled into a fetal position against the wall. Crying as if he had no tomorrow, soaking his fur with tears. His only company being the cold of the night and the rays of light from the moon.

Unable to believe that his life went from paradise to hell in such a short period of time. And not being able to blame anyone but himself and being totally uncertain about the future.

Author's Note

Merry Christmas for all of you!

From here on out, it will get more fun for us, and downright miserable for Grover.

Also miserable for you guys, I really need to stop slacking in this story jesus christ. Sorry for the delay guys, the last couple of months were NOT easy.

16 - Usurpday

"Get out of my way!" He shouted as he stormed past the guards who just stared in amazement at the intruder into the Emperor's throne room who was followed by an entire guard of soldiers bearing with the iconography of Arcturius and Boreas. "Where is he??" The Archon demanded, stopping a maid in her tracks with a forceful gesture. She recoiled in fear at the intensity of his gaze.

"H-he is in his royal quarters, your holiness!" The maid stammered, trying to contain her fear. "The doctors are-"

The Archon didn't wait for her to finish, already charging towards the indicated location with urgency burning in his eyes.

'How did this all go to shit so quickly? This wasn't supposed to happen!' His mind raced with turmoil as he traversed the palace halls. His encounter with the Changelings had been worse than anticipated. He had barely arrived at the Changeling embassy before the first clashes began. And his encounter with the insects was worse than he could even imagine. The revelation of Grover Junior's whereabouts had caught him off guard.

The queen of the Changelings was not there, it was expected, Eros knew that that cockroach would leave Griffonia at his first opportunity. The guards informed him that she was already in Equus, having taken the first plane to the other continent once Grover's birthday had ended.

However, he not only discovered that the queen had galloped for some time but also the whereabouts of Grover Junior. Because he had already been there.

The guards had seized a Griffon and a Dog snooping around the embassy, from the descriptions given both were nobles. Descriptions that immediately matched Grover and Loudbark. 'Damn you children and your curiosity.'

Those two idiots must have ventured out at night for Boreas knows why and now they must be lost in the city in the middle of a possible civil war. Said civil war was caused because of those disgusting nobles who decided to interfere just when the Emperor arrived in the city, and if all of this series of confusions and misunderstandings wasn't horrible enough, the emperor had some physical accident that caused some part of his body to stop and make many believe that he died. Making the crisis in the city even worse and the fighting escalates into even worse proportions.

This was all a disaster! An unprecedented catastrophe! All of his worst fears were coming true in sequence within the span of a few hours.

But he put those thoughts aside when he arrived at the door of the royal quarters.

Two guards flanked the door while from behind he could hear many voices talking and moving around the room. When the guards saw him arrive, they stiffened and bowed.

"Your holiness." The guard on the right greeted him. Receiving a nod from Archon.

“What is the status of the emperor?” He asked. The guards looked at each other.

"He's terrible, your holiness." He announced to the dismay of the Archon. "He had a heart attack after the excessive stress caused by the recent crisis, the doctors are doing their best but...."

"But...?" The Archon insisted.

"His heart is failing." The other continued. Making the entire group that came next to Archon gasp in shock and Eros gritted his beak.

"I'm coming in." Eros announced, taking a few steps only to be stopped by the guards who stepped in front of him.

"I'm sorry, your Holiness. But the Emperor is in serious condition, we can't risk it." He said, letting the archon show the fierceness and willingness to take action present on his face, making the archon's bodyguards stiffen in response.

They stared at each other, neither willing to back down. Some priests in the Archon's retreat feared yet another conflict escalating, and now this time within the palace walls. They noticed additional guards had appeared in the corridor noticing the exchange who had now surrounded the Archon's group.

But before anything could happen, a voice came from the emperor's room. "Eros...? Are you my friend...?" It was very faint, but the silence of the standoff helped it to be heard.

"Grover! It's me! I'm here!" Eros shouted into the room, much to the outrage of the guards who had already tightened their grip on their rifles.

"Eros.... Please, my friend.... Come in..." The voice replied weaker but still firm. The guards reluctantly made way for Archon, who upon entering saw them closing the door behind him.

The scene he saw was heartbreaking. The once formidable ruler lay incapacitated, surrounded by medical equipment and attentive physicians. The Emperor was in his bed connected to various medical devices and doctors were surrounding him checking his vitals. Everyone's attention was directed towards him as he approached the emperor who was smiling weakly at his friend.

"Please....Doctor, leave us...." He said hoarsely.

"Your Majesty! You are very unstable if I-"

"I beg you, doctor." He said to the surprise of everyone in the room. "Obey me." Despite his weakened state, there was a quiet strength in his voice as he requested solitude with Eros, a poignant display of his acceptance of the inevitable.

It was not a threat, the emperor seemed finished, demoralized, and above all tired. The Doctor had a look of shame on his face.

"Of course your majesty." He bowed and made a signal with his claw for the rest of the doctors to follow him. Leaving the room and leaving the two alone.

Eros had not been able to contain his grimace on his face. To think that the boy he had saved one day, ready to take a throne that was rightfully his, refused. Having survived a revolution aimed at ending his life and the total collapse of the Griffonian Empire, he found his deathbed only in his forties.

He didn't deserve this, his son didn't deserve this...

Grover seemed to notice his friend's sad expression. And he would just lower his eyes to stare at the ground.

"It's over isn't it?" The Monarch asked the Archon who looked back with a question on his face. "The Empire."

This time it was his turn to refuse to meet Grover's eyes.

"I know what's happening. It's all falling apart." He said with a humorless laugh. "I failed."

As Eros stood by Grover's bedside, a heavy silence hung in the air, punctuated only by the soft hum of medical equipment. He struggled to find the right words to offer solace to his friend in such dire circumstances.

"G-Grover," Eros began, his voice choked with emotion. "You're not a failure. None of this is your fault."

Grover's weary eyes met Eros's gaze, reflecting a depth of sorrow that pierced Eros's heart. "Isn't it?" Grover whispered, his voice barely audible amidst the hum of the medical equipment. "I couldn't protect my people. I couldn't prevent the chaos that now consumes the capital, nor the needless bloodshed."

Eros's heart found defeat in Grover's voice. He reached out, placing a reassuring claw on Grover's trembling hand. "You've done everything you could," he insisted, his tone earnest. "You've faced challenges that no monarch should ever have to toughen up. You've shown courage and resilience in the face of adversity."

But Grover shook his head weakly, a bitter smile playing across his beak. "Courage? Resilience? What good are those when my empire lies in ruins, torn apart by strife and betrayal that I failed to stop?" he murmured, his voice laced with despair. "I may have worn the crown, but I was never truly in control. I was just a puppet, manipulated by those fucking nobles and their damn petty ambition and greed for more power." His voice dripped with venom while his claws clutched the blank of his bed. "Ever since I have been born that's all I have been. A tool, something for them to play around and use to advance their interests. Something even you did recently." He accused making Eros to flinch aggressively, while a look of shame in his face.

"I'm sorry...." But Grover ignored him, and continued.

"And I always caved in. I never had the strength to combat this damned influence. Because that's what I am, a weakling," he growled. "My father wanted a warrior, a statesman, and a great diplomat. That's what he wanted to teach me and what he hoped for my future." Grover's voice became increasingly sad as he returned his gaze to the Archon. "Am I, Eros? Am I a great warrior who fought bravely for our empire? Or a great statesman who revitalized the empire with his laws? And with my diplomacy, kept it unified?" He looked at his friend, who remained silent, refusing to meet his eyes.

"O-of course, your-"

He jumped when Grover delivered a blow to the bed. "DON'T LIE TO ME!" Eros gaped at the furious monarch.

"I'm tired of all this! The lies, the manipulations, these damn politics!" Grover ranted. "Be truthful with me, Eros! For once, not as a monarch to a subject, but from a friend to another."

"Was I a good leader?"

Eros hesitated, his heart heavy with the weight of truth. "No," he finally admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

A Resounding silence followed as Eros simply refused to meet the eyes of the emperor, who maintained a stoic face upon the declaration of the Archon.

Then a snicker. The old Griffon looked up surprised once again, at the monarch who was now in a soft chuckle, who turned into a burst of full-blown laughter.

"Your majesty...?" He asked with concern as the emperor had his claw upon his face to try to contain his laughter. A laughter that quickly was replaced with endless sobbing.

"M-my s-son.... I f-failed the only t-thing that mattered t-to me the most...!" he cried out between sobs. "T-to be a good father..." His claws clutched the blankets tighter as his heart began to beat faster and stronger. "I w-wanted to be a good father.... So that.... At least he wouldn't suffer like I did...!" He said, his cries slowly growing weaker and weaker. "B-but I c-couldn't.... He'll.... He'll probably be even worse....!" Grover's body weakened, and the beeping from the machines connected to him began to accelerate.

Eros looked in desperation between the emotional wreck that was the emperor and the machine showing his deteriorating physical state. "Y-you did what you could your majesty, you did everything you-"

"It wasn't enough... Nothing I have ever done was ever enough in my whole life...." He cut off Eros once more, his voice was now almost a whisper. "I failed my empire... I failed my people...." He leaned the back of his head on his pillow. "I failed my son...." The machines were now screaming as the sounds of gunfire from the outside grew every closer to the palace. Grover's eyes slowly drifting off.

"No...! Grover! Doctors!!" Eros shouted in desperation. The door opened immediately with guards and doctors rushing inside, their faces filled with shock and urgency.

Grover's hand reached out, grabbing Eros's arm with surprising strength. The Monarch's eyes, filled with fear and desperation, stared into Eros's with a final plea.

"Please.... Save.... My.... Son...." He managed to utter his last words before his hand fell limp, and the heart monitor emitted a long, continuous beep.

The room descended into chaos as doctors tried desperately to revive the fallen emperor, but Eros knew in his heart that it was too late.

Grover was gone, and with him, the last vestiges of stability that had held the empire together.

"No....!" Eros tried to approach and try to help his friend before a claw pulled him back.

"Your holiness! We have to leave! Now!" One of his bodyguards shouted.

"I refuse! I can't leave the Emperor behind!" The old griffon attempted to free himself only to be stopped by another guard. "Release me in this instance!"

"We have no time! Mutineers are attacking the palace's gates!" The archon hadn't noticed the now sounds of distance gunfire while talking with Grover, but now they were closer and he could even see some flashes of light in the windows. As frantic Royal guards rushed by the corridors shouting orders and organizing themselves. "We can't guarantee your safety if you stay here!"

Eros hesitated, he gave a glance at the now fallen Emperor, with a rebreather in his beak as the medical staff attempted desperately to save his life.

'I will my friend... I shall guarantee the boy's safety. Even if that kills me.' He looked back to the guards and hesitantly nodded. Using his determination to save the boy in an attempt to cloud his immense grief and at the idea of having outlived yet another emperor.

Griffenheim burned.

Despite his years of training as a soldier, Scheer couldn't help but feel a sense of helplessness in the face of such destruction. It was so sudden, so unexpected. From day to night the city erupted.

Shots could be heard breaking the calm of the night, with concentrations of fire in different parts of the city, war cries, and more pain were drowned in the chaos that suddenly emerged in the capital. Amidst the turmoil, the officer couldn't shake the feeling of dread that gnawed at his insides. The once-proud city now was on fire, its streets echoing with the sounds of violence and despair. Griffenheim, the crown jewel of the empire, had become a battleground, torn apart by forces beyond their control.

He just shivered seeing the clouds of smoke that dominated the skies of that daybreak.

"Major General Scheer!" A griffon soldier approached, saluting sharply. "What are you doing here?"

"Watching the city..." Scheer's voice held a tinge of sadness as he gazed upon the burning Griffenheim.

"Anything... new, sir?" The soldier's concern was evident as he stood beside his superior officer.

"Besides the screaming, fire, explosions, and more screaming? No." He responded with a scoff as he adjusted his officer cap. "The fighting has only intensified but it has stayed in the exact same spots since the beginning."

"Is it true?" The soldier's question cut through the chaos like a knife. "That the emperor is dead?"

Scheer's expression turned grim. "I don't know... No one knows anymore...."

An uncomfortable silence settled between them as they both stared at the horizon, where smoke billowed into the sky.

The orders from higher up had been quite vague when he was summoned back to the capital for an unplanned reassignment.

And as the city fell into chaos. He didn't know what to do, even though he had the rank of Major General, he didn't have a field command! He was the head of logistics for Boreas sake! But the soldiers believed in him, and so he took command of the local royalist garrison, or at least one still loyal to the crown and not to nobles or the church.

When communications were not cut, he had already checked repeatedly and sent incessant requests for orders or permission to march to the capital to bring order, his division being close to the walls of Griffenheim. But the answers were always the same. 'Stand by and await further orders.'

This was before the shooting began in the early evening when the sun had just set.

Now? The city was in full-blown conflict and communication with high command had completely ceased along with most normal radios. The city's electricity was effectively cut off, either due to sabotage or as a side effect of the conflict.

Only Morse code through unorthodox means still worked and he had already communicated with his longtime friend and part-time rival Oberst (Colonel) Cornelio Galluzzo, who was stationed in the nearby town of Vinnin and had confirmed that the capital had gone totally dark.

Only the forces around the capital had an idea of what might be happening, while the vassals in Herzland had no idea that anything had happened.

At least he could reconcile himself that there was hope, action could still be taken and pacify the capital before news of the Emperor's possible death came out and caused even greater chaos in the empire.

"Look, I came here because the current shift is over. Three hours have passed and the guards are already shifting." Scheer looked at him in surprise.

"Already? I didn't even see time pass..." He said with worry, he came to see developments from afar and didn't even notice how much time he wasted there.

"It's difficult with so much going on, go inside, the others are gathered in the Barracks trying to see if any news arrives." The soldier informed, the General nodded.

"Any orders from high command?"

"Nothing, Marshal Elias must be firm in the idea of neutrality in all this chaos. Not that I blame him, I don't know who's who in all this shit." He laughed spitefully and dropped the formality much to Scheer's relief.

"Ain't that the truth?" the officer commented bitterly. "Alright, I'm going back to the barracks. Good guard."

"Thanks, Sir."

He descended from the roof, passing by fellow guards stationed around the military base. Their attempts to maintain stoic expressions did little to conceal the fear and apprehension etched on their faces. Each salute and nod of acknowledgment as he passed spoke volumes, a silent acknowledgment of the shared uncertainty that gripped them all.

Upon reaching the entrance to one of the barracks, Scheer felt a wave of exhaustion wash over him. This building, the imperial barracks, his home since he first donned the uniform of the imperial army, now served as a refuge amid chaos. As he approached, he noticed the bustling activity around the entrance. A mix of soldiers in various states of readiness, some just coming off duty, while others seemed to have been roused from their slumber by the turmoil outside.

The scene before him was a snapshot of life in Griffenheim's military, a melting pot of emotions and experiences, all brought together by the common bond of service to the empire. Scheer couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie amidst the chaos, a shared understanding that transcended rank and status.

Taking a deep breath, he stepped into the barracks.

"What's going on here?" Scheer inquired, scanning the room filled with soldiers, their faces etched with fatigue and apprehension.

"ROOM! ATTENTION!" All of them snapped in attention and robotically jumped into a rigid military stance at the shout coming from one of the soldiers in the crowd.

"As you were." He relieved them as they all returned for their current activities, just now more professionally with his presence.

A Sergeant turned to face him. He didn't recognize it, maybe he was from a different battalion or he was just being forgetful. "Sir? Came to check on us?"

"Of course, it's already four in the morning." The officer replied, a weary smile playing at the corners of his beak.

"Already? Fuck time went by so fast." The soldier's surprise was evident.

Scheer chuckled softly, nodding in agreement before turning his attention to the center of activity in the barracks. "What are you doing?"

It was another soldier's turn to respond, the one called 'Bones', who for some reason was without the upper part of the uniform. "Watching Glasses fix the radio." he explained, gesturing towards a griffon soldier nicknamed 'Glasses', who was tinkering with a radio set amidst a flurry of tools and wires.

"But the capital has been without power since early in the night. How?" The officer asked, his curiosity piqued by the sight of the makeshift repair.

"Some scientific shit he learned at Yale, I don't know," Bones replied with a shrug. "But it seems to be working. The box is screaming static like hell," he added a hint of admiration in his voice despite the dire circumstances and his blatant impatience by seeing his paw hitting the floor repeatedly without himself noticing.

He could see everyone agitated around a griffon who wore glasses that bore his nickname (Very creative). The griffon was deeply engrossed in fiddling with the radio, surrounded by tools and amidst a flurry of voices offering suggestions and assistance or simply debating on what could be going on in the capital.

After a full minute spent with him there, waited anxiously, his hopes dwindling with each passing moment, until suddenly, sparks burst from the radio, causing a collective startle among the nearby soldiers. Insults were hurled and the nerd-looking Griffon was with his hands in a defensive stance trying to calm down his comrades, but they were swiftly silenced as the radio began emitting a normal transmission noise.

"Holy shit Glasses you did it!" A soldier exclaimed with cheers now ringing out around completely forgetting the whole debacle.

However, 'Glasses' seemed oblivious to the commotion, his attention focused solely on adjusting the volume button. Scheer strained to hear amidst the excitement, catching a muffled voice amidst the cheers. "Everybody shut the fuck up! Shut the fuck up!" 'Glasses' shouted, commanding silence as the others quickly quieted down, allowing the transmission to be heard clearly.

Now with the volume turned up and the room hushed, Scheer could hear the feminine voice emanating from the radio, her words echoing through the barracks. "Tonight has been a total shock. The city under martial law; gunfire, and the roar of tanks echoing through the streets..." Her somber tone mirrored the gravity of the situation unfolding in Griffenheim.

"Despite the clear present danger of getting shot or blown up by the rampaging soldiers, griffons are flocking to bars, communal baths, and other places to share information and try to find out what is going on." Her words painted a picture of a city gripped by fear and uncertainty, yet Griffons were stubborn and fearless creatures, the danger of getting shot by soldiers wouldn't stop them until their curiosity was satiated.

"I'm jealous. What i wouldn't do to get shot or some beer right now." A ripple of dark humor spread through the room as someone quipped, "Probably more of the latter." Quiet Laughter ensued with the few that were not dominated by dread in the chaos being broadcasted, the radio continued.

"We don't have any type of concrete information at the moment; however, there are many rumors from various sources reporting this as an attempted coup in the capital, who attempted it is even less clear. Many blamed the Archons, others the Nobles." The mention of a coup ignited a flurry of whispers and gossip among the soldiers, each one fervently defending their own beliefs by the situation.

"Those greedy sons of bitches! Of course, the nobility is behind all this!" shouted one soldier, his voice dripping with contempt for the upper class.

"No! It's those old pigs from the church who are doing all this! They never knew their rightful place in the empire!" countered another, his anger directed towards the religious hierarchy. The barracks erupted into a flurry of voices, each soldier fervently defending their chosen sides while lambasting those of their comrades.

"It's the Nobles' treachery that's led us to this chaos!" shouted one soldier, his face flushed with anger. "They've always sought to manipulate the empire for their selfish gains!"

"It's the Archons who are to blame! Their thirst for power knows no bounds, and they'll stop at nothing to seize control of Griffenheim!" retorted another, his voice dripping with scorn.

"You're all blind fools! The real instigators of this turmoil are the scheming changeling bugs, those damn bugs are probably loving that the capital is burning!" A third now female soldier interjected with equal fervor, her eyes blazing with indignation. "Fucking bugs..."

As tensions reached a boiling point, Scheer stepped forward, his voice booming and mingling with the shouting match that was happening around him. "All of you knock it off!" he roared, his words cutting like a thunderclap. "This isn't helping people! We don't even know what truly is happening!" But his pleas fell on deaf ears as the soldiers continued to argue, their voices rising in volume and intensity with each passing moment. The once-united force of brothers-in-arms now stood fractured, torn apart by conflicting loyalties and irreconcilable differences from past experiences with one ruling class or another as he could see them forming little 'groups' that supported their arguments.

In the midst of the turmoil, Scheer couldn't help but feel despair creeping over him. How could they hope to stand against the chaos consuming Griffenheim when even those sworn to protect it were divided against each other? Were they truly doomed to complete destruction from infighting...? He could see the same shit happening in other neutral camps that still existed in the capital.

Despite the chaos that the barracks now found themselves in, Scheer returned his attention to the radio and tried to continue listening. "- the fighting between the military forces in the capital shows a deep divide in loyalties of the armed forces if allowed to spread. The empire could truly find itself in a state of civil war." Giving a quick look at the 'sides' formed in the barracks only calmed down by some sergeants who were now unto the scene shouting at the soldiers and re-establishing order.

'I can see that...' He thought with a sigh. 'If they decide to simply ignore the higher-ups and start fighting with each other...' He shivered. 'Better not to think about it.'

"Who do we turn to in this darkest hour? We need a beacon of light to show us the way…" Then the voice was cut off and static was quickly made. Making Scheer raise an eyebrow, an interference on the radio? The soldier 'Glasses' seemed to also notice it and was already attempting to fix it.

But he didn't need to, as a new voice boomed from the radio.

'Soldiers, friends, and countrygriffs!' A new voice sounded from the radio. Drawing everyone's attention in the room again. It was a deep, masculine voice, different from the woman's previously. 'Today, the gods cry. They cry when they see the last bastion of civility and grandeur in flames, torn apart by the ambitions of petty obese nobles and false prophets. They cry when they witness the treachery and cowardice that have brought our glorious empire to the brink of destruction.'

Wait a second. He knew that voice, he recognized it! His pupils dilated. 'Dawnclaw?'

The barracks were now in a tense silence, every griffon's attention riveted to the radio as Dawnclaw's voice echoed through the room. Scheer felt a chill run down his spine as he recognized the commanding tone. 'Oh no...' Dawnclaw had always been a charismatic orator, and now, in the empire's darkest hour, he was using his gift to rally support for his cause. 'He isn't doing what I think he is doing...'

"But let us not weep with the gods, my brothers and sisters," Dawnclaw continued, his voice rising. "Let us not surrender to despair. For in this darkest hour, we are given a sacred duty, a solemn charge. We are the guardians of Griffonia's legacy, not only for the empire but for the entire continent! The protectors of its honor! We cannot, we must not allow our empire to fall to the schemes of those who would see it shattered and enslaved."

The soldiers murmured in agreement. Scheer saw even the sergeants nodding, their resolve hardening as Dawnclaw spoke.

"The so-called leaders who claim to govern us, who sit in their opulent palaces and stuff their faces while our people starve, they are the true enemies of Griffonia. They have betrayed us, and sold our birthright for their own gain. They have allowed our empire to fall into disarray, to be torn apart by internal strife and external threats."

Dawnclaw paused, letting his words sink in, before continuing with renewed fervor.

"But we, we who stand here today, we are the true heirs of Griffonia's glory. We are the warriors, the defenders of our people. We are the ones who will restore honor and justice to our land. And I will not be silenced. I will not be cowed. I will rise up and take back what is rightfully ours!"

The soldiers were now visibly moved, some gripping their weapons tighter, others clenching their claws in determination. Dawnclaw's voice grew even stronger, filled with anger. He was a heck of a good orator, knowing when to shout and controlling his voice well.

"Those who are brave, those who are still loyal sons of the gods and of the empire; Join me in this fight for our future, for the future of our children and our children's children. Together, we will overthrow the corrupt, the treacherous, the weak. Together, we will reclaim our empire's greatness. An empire of the true Griffons! Of the Strong and of the Pure! Together, we will forge a new Griffonia, one that stands tall and proud, a beacon of strength and honor in a world of darkness and barbarity!"

Scheer could feel the energy in the room shifting, the uncertainty and fear being replaced by a burning resolve. Dawnclaw's speech was having its intended effect.

"This is our moment, our time to stand and fight. Let the traitors tremble in their palaces, let the false prophets flee in terror. For we are coming, and we bring with us the wrath of a betrayed nation. We are the storm that will sweep away the rot and corruption. We are the dawn of a new era."

Dawnclaw's voice dropped to a fierce whisper, filled with unyielding determination. "By my orders, we march unto Griffenhem and free the people of these parasites! BY MY WORDS, LET THE DIE BE CAST! FOR GRIFFONIA!!"

The radio went silent, but the impact of Dawnclaw's words lingered in the air. Scheer looked around at his fellow soldiers, seeing in their eyes the same fire that burned within him. Dawnclaw had done it. He had roused them to action. The coup was no longer a distant possibility. It was happening, and they were ready to follow him into the fray.

"FOR GRIFFONIA!!" someone shouted, and the cry was taken up by others, echoing through the barracks.

"FOR GRIFFONIAAA!"

'Dawnclaw what have you done??!'

Author's Note

Pheww! Another story updated! Now unto the next one haha!

And yeah I hope my emotional chapter worked, and set the stage for the truly start of the shitstorm that shall fall upon Griffonia.

Thanks for reading, and cheers!

Edit: Forgot to put Scheer's picture here. Whoops haha.

17 - The First Murder

Count Ignatius Bronzetail raced down the dimly lighted hallways, his wits as quick as his feet. The alarm had woken him abruptly from a restless sleep. Barnaby Bronzetail, his son, had come into his rooms wide-eyed and anxious, with urgent news. Something had happened in the capital.

There had been no time for questions, no time to piece together the fragments of the reports his son had hurriedly tried to convey. The gravity of the situation was clear, even without the details. He had thrown on his uniform and dashed out the door, his heart pounding in sync with his hurried footsteps.

As he pushed through the heavy doors of the command center, the reality of the situation slammed into him with full force. The chaos in the command center was thick, an oppressive cloud of tension that dominated the air. The officers and soldiers moved like shadows in the dim, flickering light, their faces etched with a mix of fear and desperation. The relentless noise of frantic shouting, the bark of orders, and the incessant crackle of radios filled the room.

His thoughts swirled in a storm of concern and uncertainty. He had woken up in the middle of the night with the empire on the brink of disaster, and now, seeing the panicked faces around him, the fragmented reports began to crystallize into a grim picture. Griffenheim was under siege, and the situation was far worse than he had feared.

Amid this turmoil, the radio operators clung to their posts, ears pressed against headsets, straining to make sense of the garbled transmissions coming from the capital. The sabotage of their communication systems had severed their ability to respond, leaving them as helpless listeners to the unfolding nightmare.

His teeth ground together, the overwhelming noise of shouts and orders pounding relentlessly in his ears. Every transmission was a new piece of the nightmare unfolding in Griffenheim.

“Crown Actual, this is Eagle One!” a voice crackled over the main radio, the urgency in it unmistakable. “We’ve lost the northern ramparts! The enemy is advancing through the merchant quarter requesting reinforcements immediately! We can’t hold them off much longer!”

“Eagle One, this is Crown Actual.” The reply was calm, almost detached, a sharp contrast to the desperation on the other end. “Negative on reinforcements. You’re to hold your position until further orders. We’re stretched thin. Do you copy? Hold your position.”

Bronzetail’s ears twitched as he listened, his brow furrowed in concern. They were cut off, isolated, and able to receive transmissions but unable to respond. The comms sabotage had severed their ability to communicate back to the capital. All they could do was listen, helpless, as the situation spiraled further out of control.

“This is Falcon Wing Two,” another voice chimed in, the sound of heavy gunfire in the background. “We’re pinned down near the Grand Library! The enemy is pushing hard, we’re taking heavy casualties! Where the hell is our backup? We can’t hold much longer!”

“Falcon Wing Two, this is Raven Talon Four!” A new voice broke in, breathless and frantic. “We’re en route to your position, but we’re taking fire from the rooftops! Hold your ground, we’ll be there!”

“Griffonheart Six, do you read? This is Ironclaw Three!” Another transmission cut through, the voice filled with anxiety. “The east gate has fallen! Repeat, the east gate has fallen! We’re pulling back to the palace! We need air support, where’s the Skyguard?”

“Ironclaw Three, this is Skyguard One!” came the strained response. “We’re engaged over the High Perch Barracks! We can’t break off to assist! You’re on your own, Ironclaw, hold the palace at all costs!”

Bronzetail’s heart sank as he listened to the frantic voices, his paws clenching into fists. The capital was crumbling, and there was nothing they could do but bear witness to the devastation. The realization gnawed at him, a cold dread settling in his stomach.

“This is Silverwing Nine!” A new voice erupted over the radio, barely audible over the cacophony of battle. “We’re being overrun at the western gate! The enemy is swarming us, they’re too many! We need to fall back, but the exits are cut off! Can anyone hear me?”

“Silverwing Nine, this is Goldfeather Five!” another desperate voice answered. “We’re trying to make our way to you, but the streets are blocked! You need to hold out a little longer we’re coming!”

The transmissions continued to flood in, each one painting a picture of total collapse. The soldiers in the command center exchanged grim looks, their morale sinking with every word.

“This is Hawk Eye Two! We’re making our last stand at the Skyward Spire! They’ve broken through the inner defenses, we’re running out of time! Does anyone copy? We need orders!”

Bronzetail winced, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on him. They were completely cut off, their own comms crippled, unable to send any orders or offer any guidance. All they could do was listen as their forces were systematically overwhelmed.

Then came a transmission that sent a shiver down his spine.

“This is Osprey One! We’ve lost contact with the Royal Guard!” The voice was shaking, filled with dread. “The enemy’s breached the palace! I repeat, the palace is under attack! Where are the reinforcements?”

“Osprey One, this is Vulture Six!” came the strained reply. “We’re holding the last line at the eastern courtyard, but we’re outnumbered! We need to abandon the palace, there’s no saving it!”

The radio crackled with static and then came a voice that made Bronzetail’s blood run cold.

“This is Falcon Wing Two, to all units! We’re abandoning our position at the palace gates! We can’t hold it any longer! The Royal Guard… they’ve been wiped out! I repeat, the Royal Guard has fallen!”

There was a long pause, filled only with the distant sounds of battle. Then, a new voice, filled with anger and disbelief, burst through the radio.

“Falcon Wing Two, this is Crown Actual!! You will hold your position! We cannot abandon the Emperor! Do you hear me? You are to hold that gate!”

The response was immediate, a shout filled with desperation and fury that echoed through the room.

“HE IS DEAD! THE EMPEROR IS DEAD! THEY KILLED HIM! THERE IS NOTHING WE CAN DO HERE ANY LONGER! WE’RE ABANDONING GRIFFENHEIM!”

The transmission cut off abruptly, leaving a deafening silence in its wake. The command center was frozen, every soldier and officer staring at the radio in stunned disbelief. Bronzetail felt the world tilt beneath him, his legs weakening and paws shaking as the weight of those words settled in.

The Emperor was dead.

The Royal Guard was gone.

Griffenheim was lost.

Bronzetail stood there, motionless, his mind struggling to process the magnitude of what he had just heard. The battle was over, and they had lost everything. The capital, the Empire, the very foundation of their world it was all crumbling before their eyes. The crushing weight of the devastating news came down on him like a brick. The room, once alive with the frantic energy of desperate defense, had fallen into a chilling silence. The weight of unspoken dread hung heavy as every pair of eyes fixed on him. The soldiers, operators, and officers. All Diamond Dogs like him, looked to him for guidance, for reassurance in this darkest of moments.

One young soldier, standing just a few feet away, finally broke the suffocating silence. His voice trembled with fear and disbelief, his ears pinned back in a mix of confusion and sorrow. “Sir…?” Bronzetail turned to look at the young Diamond Dog, barely more than a pup, with his uniform rumpled and his eyes wide with shock. The question that hung in the air was as heavy as the grief that had settled in the count’s chest.

“This can’t be true, right…? The Emperor… He can’t be….”

For a moment, Count Bronzetail couldn’t find his voice. The words of the transmission echoed in his mind, each syllable driving deeper into his heart like a dagger. The Emperor is dead. The reality of those words threatened to break him. Grief clawed at his throat, his chest tightening with the immense sorrow that burned deep inside. His usually sharp, focused gaze wavered, his eyes welling with unshed tears as he struggled to maintain his composure.

He hesitated, his muzzle opening and closing as if trying to form words that wouldn’t come. How could he confirm such a horrendous truth? How could he shatter the last fragile ray of hope that his soldiers clung to? The grief was overwhelming, a storm of anguish that threatened to drown him. But then, amidst of the sorrow, a thought pierced through, cutting cleanly like a blade: The heir… The prince is also in danger!

The realization struck him with the force of a thunderbolt, jolting him back to the grim reality of their situation. The Emperor may have fallen, but the future rested on the survival of the prince.

He straightened, his broad shoulders squaring as his eyes cleared, a spark of purpose returning to his gaze. Turning to face the gathered soldiers, his voice rang out, firm and commanding, cutting through the oppressive silence like a clarion call.

“Mobilize the troops!” he barked, his tone leaving no room for hesitation or doubt. “Send out orders for a full-scale alert! We must secure the entire county of Bronzehill and prepare for the worst. The enemy is at our doorstep, and we may be going to war with the usurper! Spread the word!”

The command center erupted into motion once more, the soldiers and officers snapping into action as Bronzetail’s orders were relayed. The frenetic energy of preparation returned, but this time, it was driven not by desperation, but by the resolve to defend their homeland and protect the future of their empire.

As the chaos resumed around him, Bronzetail allowed himself a brief moment of vulnerability. He turned away from the others, his eyes burning with unshed tears. He had known, deep down, that the Emperor’s end was inevitable, that the mantle of regency would fall upon him one way or another. The thought echoed in his mind, laden with deep, aching sorrow. Not like this. Not with the capital in ruins, the empire in shambles, and the prince’s life hanging by a thread. He had hoped for a transition of power marked by dignity and order, a peaceful passing of the torch, but instead, he was thrust into a maelstrom of chaos and impending war.

Not like this.

With a quick, rough swipe of his paw, he wiped away the tears that threatened to spill over, forcing them back. There was no time for grief, no time to mourn. The fate of the empire rested in his paws now, and he couldn’t afford to falter. The battle for Griffenheim was over, but the war for the future had just begun.

Count Ignatius Bronzetail turned back to the command center, his gaze hardening as he prepared to lead his forces into the coming storm. The empire may have lost its Emperor, but as long as he drew breath, it would not lose its future.

He plunged into the abyss.

Everything happened so fast.

A scream, a flash of red, the taste of iron.

Death, the finality.

He kept sinking.

Love was slipping away, leaving him in torment.

His struggles were futile, swallowed by the weight of despair.

He kept sinking.

But then, in the distance, a flicker of hope.

A golden chalice, radiant on the horizon.

Cradling a beautiful red pearl, it gleamed.

It gleamed for him.

It beckoned him, a promise in the darkness.

Grover woke up to the harsh reality of the cold, damp alleyway. His small body shivered as he slowly regained consciousness, the hard ground beneath him offering no comfort. The smell of garbage filled his nostrils, and as his eyes fluttered open, he realized he was lying behind a rusted dumpster, the only shelter he had found the night before in his mad dash for safety. He felt the mud on his feathers, the dirt clinging to his once-pristine coat. It was a far cry from the warm bed in the palace where he had spent so many nights comfortably and warmingly dreaming of adventures, not this nightmare.

He didn’t know how long he had slept. The alley was dark, the only light filtering in from the cracks between the buildings above. Time seemed to have lost all meaning in this forsaken place. Was it still night, or had the sun risen and set again? He couldn’t tell. All he knew was that he felt alone, more alone than he had ever felt before.

Grover’s heart ached as he thought of home, of the palace that now felt a world away. He missed his father terribly, missed the comforting presence that had always been there to shield him from the cruelties of the world. But how could he go back? The very guards who had sworn to protect him had turned on him in his most vulnerable moment. The memory of their betrayal cut deep, a wound that stung more than the physical pain he had endured.

No, he shook his head, trying to dislodge the growing fear. He couldn’t let himself believe that his own people would harm him again. It had to be a mistake, a horrible, terrible mistake. He needed to find his father, needed to warn him, needed to make sense of this madness. His father would know what to do. His father was strong, a beacon of hope in the chaos. If anyone could fix this, it would be him.

He remembers the image of the soldiers rushing with himself lying down, unresponsive. The boy shuddered at the terrible memory that would scar him for life. His daddy needed him more than ever. He needed to get back. Somehow, and on the way save Loudbark, fix his mistakes.

But how?? What could he do?? He could only sigh and shiver as his claws dug into the filthy ground he found himself.

As Grover struggled to push himself up from the cold, unforgiving ground, his thoughts were abruptly shattered by a sound that made his blood run cold. A loud crash echoed through the narrow alleyway, the kind of noise that made the earth beneath him tremble as if a massive boulder had just been dropped from the sky. Then, a second crash, just as loud, reverberated through the walls, sending a fresh wave of fear coursing through his veins.

'What was that?' Grover wondered, his heart pounding in his chest. His mind raced with possibilities, each more terrifying than the last. Was it an attack? Had the chaos reached even this desolate corner of the city? Were they coming after him??

Cautiously, he pulled himself to his feet, ignoring the lingering aches in his body. He knew he had to move, had to see what was happening. The alley seemed to stretch endlessly before him, a tunnel of shadows with small traces of sunlight and discarded refuse. Every step he took felt heavy, as if the air itself was pressing down on him, slowing his movements. He carefully picked his way through the scattered debris, the filthy ground squelching beneath his paws.

The alley was a grim place, the air thick with the stench of decay. Rats scurried away as he approached. Grover’s heart was pounding in his chest, each beat echoing in his ears. The silence was broken only by the occasional distant rumble of what he now recognized as artillery fire. Which was weird, as they were only used in events, but these were weird times.

As he moved further down the alley, he noticed something out of place amidst the filth and garbage. There, lying slumped against the wall, was the motionless figure of a soldier with his gun by his side. A soldier exactly like the one who took Loudbark away from him. Grover froze, his breath catching in his throat. The soldier’s uniform was torn and dirty, the once-proud insignia of the Imperial Army now smeared with blood and dirt. His helmet had fallen off, revealing a bruised, battered face with fur had fallen off many places, his eyes closed as if in sleep.

But this was no peaceful rest. The soldier’s chest barely moved. Grover hesitated, his mind torn between fear and compassion. He had never seen a soldier so vulnerable, so defeated. The sight filled him with a deep sadness, a realization that the world he knew was crumbling around him.

He took a cautious step forward, his heart aching with the need to help, even though he wasn’t sure what he could do. The soldier didn’t stir, didn’t react to Grover’s presence. The young prince felt a knot tighten in his stomach as he drew closer, the seriousness of the situation settling over him.

Was this soldier a friend? Or a bad guy? Was he one of the guards who had turned on him, or was he someone who was with him in the palace? The lines between ally and enemy had blurred so much that Grover didn’t know who to trust anymore.

Still, he couldn’t just leave the soldier there. The instinct to help, to do something, anything, overrode his fear. Grover knelt down beside the soldier, his small paws trembling as he reached out to shake the soldier's shoulder gently.

“Sir?” Grover’s voice was a mere whisper, barely audible above the distant echoes of a battle the boy barely could understand. “Are… are you okay?”

It happened so swiftly that Grover was barely able to comprehend the danger. One moment, he was slumped against the wall of the grimy alley, exhausted and confused; the next, the soldier’s clawed talons had sunk into his throat with a brutal, unyielding force. Grover’s instinctive cry for help was stopped by the relentless grip, which cut off his air supply and rendered him helpless.

The boy’s heart pounded violently in his chest, each beat a frantic reminder of his vulnerability. He thrashed wildly, his hands clawing at the soldier's arm, trying in vain to pry the iron grip away. The soldier, despite his numerous injuries, had managed to rise with a terrifying strength. His eyes, once a symbol of griffonkind, now resembled hollow, soulless voids. The creature before him was not just a wounded soldier but a vessel of sheer, unthinking violence.

Fear surged through Grover. When he left the walls of the palace he just wanted adventure, fun. This was no longer a distant tale of heroism like from the books he loved; it was a raw, struggle for survival. His pleas, barely audible through his throat, were met with chilling indifference. The soldier’s grip only tightened, his expression devoid of empathy or recognition. The boy could see the deep, vacant stare of the griffon, his eyes glassy and lifeless, as if the soul had been drained from him, leaving only the body to act out a mindless aggression.

Desperation ignited within Grover. In the midst of his terror, his survival instincts took over with an almost supernatural clarity. His leg, guided by sheer reflex, shot out with grace and precision he didn't know he had connected with the side of the soldier’s head. The impact was brutal, a solid kick that sent the soldier crashing into the wall with a resounding thud. The soldier's grip loosened, and he fell to the ground, momentarily stunned.

Grover scrambled away from the fallen soldier, his breaths coming in ragged, terrified gasps. His heart raced, but his mind was alert, focused on the immediate need to escape. He couldn't comprehend how he had instinctively targeted the soldier's vulnerable spot, but there was no time for deep thinking on his new abilities he didn't know he had. The soldier, though battered and disoriented, began to rise again, driven by an unrelenting force. His eyes locked onto Grover with a renewed, unholy fury.

The griffon’s voice was an enraged snarl. "Killing filth like you will be a pleasure. Damn noble." He slowly marched at Grover with a feral screech, his figure a dark, menacing silhouette against the dim alleyway.

Grover's terror reached new heights. In his frantic attempt to flee backward, his paw collided with an object on the ground. He looked down to see the soldier’s gun, a cold, metallic instrument of death. Panic surged through him, but again survival instinct guided his actions. With shaking hands, he grasped the gun. Its weight was unfamiliar, yet his claws instinctively curled around it, guided by that primal understanding and knowledge he didn't know he had.

In the split second that he grabbed it, he quickly inspected the gun, Grover observed its components with a mixture of desperation and focus. The grip was firm, fitting snugly into his claws. The metal of the gun felt cold and smooth. He noted the magazine, which appeared to be loaded, and the trigger, which seemed both ominous and strangely familiar. His mind raced as he quickly assembled the knowledge he had seen and heard about firearms, understanding how the bullet fits into the chamber and how the mechanism worked. The sight of the chamber, now loaded, gave him a glimmer of confidence amidst his fear.

The prince was tearful and trembling, and held the gun awkwardly but resolutely. "P-please, leave me alone," he pleaded, his voice cracking with desperation. "P-please stop!"

"I will kill you, damn traitor!" The soldier, undeterred and snarling with hatred, replied with a chilling threat as he kept advancing.

Grover’s hands shook uncontrollably as he raised the gun. His breaths were shallow, his heart pounding like a drum in his chest. The soldier charged, his eyes gleaming with malevolence. In a final act of self-preservation, Grover’s trembling claw tightened around the trigger.

The gunshot erupted with a deafening crack that reverberated through the alleyway, a sharp and jarring sound that seemed to pierce the very air. The soldier was thrown back by the force of the shot, his body crashing to the ground with a violent thud as blood splattered to the ground. The alley fell silent once more, the echoes of similar gunfire into the background.

Grover stood there, breathless and stunned, the gun still clutched tightly in his trembling hands. His face was streaked with tears, his eyes wide and unblinking as he processed the magnitude of what had just happened. The immediate threat was gone, but the reality of what he had done fell heavily on his shoulders. The alley was a stark, silent witness to the terror that had happened, and Grover, shaken and disoriented, sank to his knees.

"I-i... K-killed him....?" He spoke with horror as his claws passed by his beak, the now lifeless corpse of the soldier in front of him, his soulless eyes staring unto the sky frozen with the fury of a predator that refused to give in even until its final moments. "O-oh G-gods d-daddy w-what did I do?? W-what have I done??"

The fleeting moment of silence in the alley was abruptly shattered by the sound of hurried footsteps. Grover, still clutching the gun with trembling claws, was barely holding himself together. His eyes darted around, searching for the source of the noise as the footsteps grew louder, drawing closer with alarming speed.

As a new figure emerged from the shadows, the boy’s fear escalated into a frantic, panicked reaction. His heart pounded in his chest as he pointed the gun, his hands shaking uncontrollably. "LEAVE ME ALONE!!" he shouted, his voice a raw plea for safety.

The figure skidded to a halt, its claws raised in a gesture of surrender. "WOW HEY, I AM NOT AN ENEMY! HOLD UP, KID!" The voice was unmistakable, the voice of one of the changelings he had seen in the embassy, one Grover had heard during his encounter with Chrysalis the night before. The figure’s presence was imposing, but his intentions were unclear to the terrified boy.

The changeling, disguised as a griffon and dressed in a grey officer's uniform with a distinctive three-horned (Changeling) emblem, advanced slowly, his movements cautious. As he approached, he saw the fallen soldier on the ground and his expression shifted from surprise to horror. His gaze then returned to Grover, who was visibly distressed, covered in grime and blood. “Oh god, kid… I—." He hesitated. "... I am so sorry…”

The feathers on his face streaked with dirt and tears, clutched the gun tightly. "Please don’t hurt me, please," the prince begged.

The changeling reassuringly raised his claws. “I ain’t gonna hurt you, kid.”

“Promise?” Grover’s voice was barely a whisper.

“I promise,” the changeling said, his tone sincere.

Slowly, with great effort and still unable to fully trust the stranger, Grover lowered the gun. He kept his gaze fixed on the changeling, who maintained a steady, calming presence.

"Name’s Thranx, kid. I’m here to help," the changeling said softly, extending a claw toward Grover.

In a sudden outburst of emotion, Grover lunged at Thranx, collapsing into an embrace. Tears streamed down his fur as he clung to the changeling, his sobs wrenching and loud. "Please, please, please, I promise I’ll never leave the palace again! I promise to follow every rule from now on! I just want to see Daddy again! Please, please, please!" His words tumbled out in a desperate, incoherent rush, his small frame trembling uncontrollably.

The changeling was taken aback by the child's raw, emotional plea, held him gently, his heart aching for the boy. "Don’t worry, kid," he said softly, his voice soothing. "I’m getting you home. I promise."

As Thranx cradled the distraught child. He knew before it was just ordered by Chrysalis, but now? Looking at the boy? He couldn't ignore a child in such a situation. The urgency to get Grover to safety, away from the horrors of the conflict in the city, became his paramount concern.

Author's Note

Remember people, suffering builds character! :D

18 - A Dawn upon a Iron Claw

Nothing.

He didn't know how long he found himself staring at it or how long it took to figure out he could feel he should be doing something else than looking at it.

It was endless, an all-encompassing nothingness that flanked on him from every side. He couldn’t see, couldn’t hear, couldn’t feel. It was like floating in a sea of black, but there was no cold, no warmth, no texture to the emptiness around him. It was as though he existed outside of existence itself.

Where am I? The thought drifted to the surface of his mind, unbidden but insistent.

There was a heaviness, a weight he couldn’t place. He tried to breathe, but the effort felt hollow, pointless. His chest ached for air, yet no breath came. There was no sensation of lungs expanding, no relief of oxygen filling him. And yet, he didn’t suffocate. He didn’t die.

Die.

The word rang in his mind, bringing with it a wave of scattered thoughts and fragmented images. They flickered before him, though his eyes didn't see anything . A throne room bathed in golden light. The fluttering of banners bearing his crest. A bed, soft but cold, and the sound of hushed and panicking voices. His thoughts clawed at the edges of these recollections, trying to piece them together, but they slipped through his grasp like sand through talons.

Who am I?

The question struck him like a blunt weapon. It was absurd, the kind of question one shouldn’t have to ask for it's obvious nature. Yet the answer didn't come. He searched, drifting through the darkness of his mind, feeling as though something vital was just out of reach.

Then, like a spark igniting a dormant fire, it came to him. I am the Emperor.

The realization slammed into him with force and with it came clarity. He was Grover. But not just any Grover, he was Grover the Fifth. Emperor of Griffonia. The ruler of an empire that stretched across the continent, or at least, it did before the dark times. He remembered the weight of the crown on his head, the way the nobles would bow as he entered a room, the expectations that had been placed upon him since the moment he could walk despite his extremely poor health.

But also he remembered the coldness of the bed. The weakness of his own body. The desperate voices of his doctors, a good friend standing by his side and the background noise of combat. And the last fleeting sensation of life slipping away. He had died. He remembered now. He had died in that bed, his weak body succumbing to the weight of stress and disease.

So why am I awake?

The question hung in his mind, unanswered. A wave of panic rose within him. If he was dead, how could he be here, thinking, feeling? Was this the afterlife? Some cruel joke of the gods? He fought against the void, trying once more to open his eyes, to see, to feel, to confirm this impossible reality.

And then he heard them. Voices.

One was deep, commanding, that sent a chill through him even in this formless state. The other was lighter, almost cheerful, but there was a strange undertone to it, something that made Grover’s unease become even more dominant.

“He’s stirring,” the lighter voice said, a hint of amusement in its tone. “I told you id work and he’d wake up.”

“Good,” the deeper voice replied. “Then why is it taking so long?”

“The machine just started up. Give him a moment. After all, he just… returned.”

The words sent a jolt through Grover. Returned? Returned to what? Who were these voices?

“Can he hear us?” the deep voice asked after a pause, its tone colder now, more calculated.

There was a moment of silence, and then the lighter voice answered, its tone practically dripping with glee. “Oh, he can hear us, all right. Can’t you, Grover?”

The name hit him like a bolt of lightning. His heart (if he even still had one) nearly stopped at the realization. They were talking about him. They knew he was awake.

Grover tried to respond, but no words came. His voice, his body, everything felt distant, beyond his control. But the deep voice spoke again, quieter this time, with an almost predatory calm.

“Activate right optic.”

As if triggered by the command, something within him shifted. The oppressive void gave way to a sudden burst of static, bright and blinding. Grover would've flinched instinctively if he had the ability to do so, though he felt no pain. Slowly, the static resolved into shapes, blurry at first, then sharpening into clarity.

He was seated on a throne. His throne. The grand seat of the Emperor, adorned with gold and intricate carvings of Griffonian history while still adorning his venerable imperial regalia. But the room around him was wrong. It wasn’t the shining palace he remembered. The air felt... Heavy, the light filtering through the tall windows was dim, as though the sun itself was hesitant to shine upon this scene.

Before him stood two figures. One was an albino griffon with piercing crimson eyes that seemed to bore into his very soul. The other was cloaked, the hood obscuring all but the curve of a beak that jutted out from the shadows.

The albino stepped forward, his movements rigid, fitting for a military being he was. Grover’s mind raced, recognition sparking like flint against stone. Ferdinand Dawnclaw. An officer in the Imperial military, ambitious, dangerous with an incredibly unique appearance.

The cloaked figure tilted its head, and with a pull from its claw, it removed the hood. The sight made Grover’s heart (if it was still capable at all) skip a beat. A black griffon with a mechanical monocle that enveloped his right eye, glowing faintly with a sinister light. Leopold. A name that dredged up memories of fear and revulsion. The disgraced scientist, expelled from Yale for his horrific and heretical experiments.

Leopold grinned, his beak curling in an almost mocking smile. “Ah, your majesty,” he said, his tone light and unsettlingly friendly. “A sight for sore optics, isn’t it?”

Ferdinand’s scowl deepened, and he waved a dismissive claw. “Spare me the theatrics, Leopold. What did you do?”

Leopold turned away from the emperor’s motionless body. His grin lingered as he glanced at Ferdinand Dawnclaw.

“What we did comrade,” Leopold began, gesturing toward the tangled mess of machinery that had turned the once grand and beautiful royal bed into a macabre laboratory. “We created a masterpiece, wouldn’t you agree?”

Ferdinand raised an eyebrow, folding his claws as he leaned slightly against the wall. “If you can call this desecration a masterpiece,” he muttered dryly, though his tone lacked any anger or hostility.

Leopold chuckled, the sound light and casual. “Oh, come now, Ferdinand. You and I both know this is beyond mere desecration. This is innovation. Progress.” He turned his attention back to the emperor’s frail form, his grin widening as he gestured toward the elaborate contraption. “This life-support system is unlike anything the Empire, or perhaps the world, has ever seen. A combination of advanced machinery, arcane elements smuggled straight from Equus, and the collaboration of some of the finest minds Yale had to offer, before they decided I was too ‘eccentric.’”

He sneered at the memory, then quickly recovered, waving a claw as if dismissing the thought. “But thanks to your... assistance,” Leopold continued, his grin returning, “I had the resources to make this happen. Without you smuggling in those precious magical artifacts, ensuring the right minds saw 'reason,' and bribing those fools of Gamia. I wouldn’t have been able to preserve him so completely.”

Ferdinand smirked very faintly at the praise, though his expression remained guarded. “You’re welcome, I suppose. Though I wouldn’t pat myself on the back too much. If this backfires, your head will roll long before mine.” It was obvious Ferdinand would make the mad scientist the scapegoat, not that he minded it. It wasn't the first nor would be the last time Leopold would be hunted down for his genius.

Grover could only watch in absolute silence from within the prison they had made of his own mind. The horror they inspired was all too real. He wanted to scream, to thrash, to demand an explanation for the atrocities that had been inflicted upon his body, but no muscle would move, no sound would escape his beak. He was trapped, a silent observer in his own broken form.

Suddenly, cutting the conversation of the two, the room’s heavy door creaked open, and a soldier rushed in, his expression a mix of urgency and worry. He froze mid-step, his eyes going wide as he caught sight of the emperor’s body, surrounded by the grotesque machinery.

“By the gods...” the soldier stammered, his beak slightly ajar.

Ferdinand snapped his talons sharply, drawing the soldier’s attention. “The emperor is not your concern,” he said coldly, his tone brooking no argument. “Now, report.”

The soldier hesitated but managed to compose himself, saluting quickly. “Sir, reports from the perimeter... they’ve sighted the young Grover, Grover the Sixth, approaching the palace. He’s under the protection of an unknown griffon bodyguard.”

The words sent a jolt of cold dread through the emperor’s mind. Grover... my son? No! Keep him away from this! Keep him safe!

Ferdinand’s crimson eyes lit up with a predatory glint, and a savage grin spread across his face. “So, the heir returns,” he murmured, almost to himself.

The grin sent a fresh wave of horror coursing through the emperor’s paralyzed form. No, no, no! He can’t! He wouldn’t dare harm him! My son! Please!

Ferdinand straightened, his grin never wavering as he addressed the soldier. "Order the nearest units to escort him to the palace,” he ordered smoothly. “We are duty-bound to ensure the safety of the heir and the future of the Empire. Make sure he is treated with the utmost respect.”

The soldier saluted and quickly exited. As the door shut, Leopold’s ever-cheerful demeanor darkened. The grin slipped from his face, replaced by a suspicious frown. “What exactly are you planning to do, Ferdinand?” he asked, his tone unusually serious.

Grover found himself inwardly agreeing with the scientist’s sudden change in tone. Even Leopold, with all his mad experiments and disregard for morality, seemed uneasy about what might come next.

Ferdinand simply shrugged, his expression one of infuriating nonchalance. “I don’t know yet, i didn't expect him to stick around. I expected him to be with the dogs in the north by now.” he admitted, though the sly smile that followed betrayed his intentions. “But I have... a few ideas.”

Grover’s internal panic intensified. The helplessness, the dread, the sheer agony of being unable to act, it was unbearable. He could only watch as his son unknowingly walked into the lion’s den, and the traitorous officer prepared to enact whatever schemes were brewing behind those crimson eyes.

Grover had a mouth, but he couldn't scream.

Author's Note

Another chapter, finally! Hope you guys like it, dragged my ass off with this one but i am very happy how it turned out, sorry for the small lenght of it, but if i didn't publish it now, probably this wouldn’t be relased until next year haha. Thank you all, love you guys and peace.

19 - The Ultimate Victory

He groaned as he put his paw on his head, a wave of dizziness crashing over him as he slowly woke up. His head felt like his brain wasn't of the correct size of his head, as he opened his eyes, his blurred vision slowly adjusted to his surroundings. The first thing he saw were walls of clean, polished stone, illuminated faintly by a lightbulb mounted near the arched doorway. It took him a moment to realize where he was, he had never seen one but he could pinpoint the similarities of the room he was to a dungeon, but not the filthy, decrepit, or dusty type he'd imagined like those he read in the books. This one was well-kept, its walls almost spotless, and the faint glimmer of metal bars shone in the dim light. The bed he had been lying on was little more than a wooden frame with a thin mattress, but it wasn’t as uncomfortable as he expected.

He sat up with a groan, his paws reflexively rubbing his head further as he tried to shake off the pounding that he felt. He swung his legs over the edge of the bed, paws hitting the cold stone floor. The chill shot up through his body, grounding him a little. He sat there for a moment, breathing deeply, trying to make sense of it all.

Then it hit him. He felt his heart almost stop as bits of memory began to piece themselves together. The night before, it came rushing back to him. 'Grover!' He had jumped into the fray to protect his friend, Grover VI, from the soldiers in the square trying to stop him from seeing his father. He remembered biting and trying to hurt the soldier, his cry of pain, and the surge of adrenaline as he fought to defend his lord.

He clenched his jaw, frustrated as the memory blurred at the edges. What had happened? One moment he had been standing his ground, fending off the attacker, and the next...

A sharp pain shot through his head, and he winced, rubbing the fur just above his brow. The effort to recall more was like someone trying to grab a glass cup as it was falling from their paws, it slipped away every time he tried to seize it. Groaning again, he let his paws drop, his breath coming in slow, deliberate pulls as he took in his surroundings more carefully.

The cell was spartan. A single wooden chair sat in the corner, accompanied by a small table with nothing on it. The bars of the door gleamed, likely polished steel. Beyond them, he could make out the faint echo of distant footsteps and the muted sound of voices, though they were too far away to discern clearly.

The situation was not becoming clear as day to the now horrified diamond dog. He was a prisoner, but why? And by whom? What happened to him and what happened to Grover??

He needed to find his friend! His lord! He had to protect him! It was his duty!

He pushed himself to his feet, swaying slightly as another wave of dizziness hit him. He supported himself against the wall so as not to fall. Was this how being drunk felt? Like their legs were made of spaghetti? He slowly made his way to the metal bars as he observed the corridor.

Loudbark leaned against the bars of his cell, his eyes scanning the corridor outside. It was just as clean and tidy as his cell. Smooth stone walls, barely a chip or scratch on them, and dim lightbulbs hanging from the ceiling. The place didn’t fit the image of a dungeon that he had in his head. He thought there’d be more grime, more filth, and intimidation.

He let out a frustrated sigh and leaned his forehead against the cold metal, trying to push through the ache in his head and make sense of everything. His eyes drifted further down the hall, where the light didn’t quite reach. That’s when he noticed movement.

At first, it was just a flicker in the shadows, but then a griffon stepped into the light from a neighboring cell in front of his. He was tall and wiry, his feathers scruffy and uneven. One side of his face was marred by a long scar that stretched from his beak up past his eye. He didn’t look like a guard, but he also didn’t look like a prisoner who had been locked up and forgotten. He stood there, leaning against the wall casually, staring right at Loudbark with a smug grin on his beak.

“Well, look who’s finally awake,” the griffon said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “How’s the beauty sleep, doggy?”

Loudbark’s jaw tightened, and his ears flattened against his head. He didn’t reply. He wasn’t in the mood for jabs, especially from someone who looked like trouble. If he was in a royal dungeon, he was bad business. He turned his head away, pretending not to pay attention or hear him.

The griffon snorted, clearly not about to let it go. “Oh, come on, don’t ignore me. I’m not one of those royalist fuckers you’ve got to worry about.”

That got Loudbark’s attention. His head snapped back toward the griffon, narrowing his eyes. “What do you mean by that?”

The griffon grinned wider, stepping closer to the bars of his cell. “What, you deaf too? I said I’m not with those imperialist fucks. Never was.”

Loudbark stared at him, trying to process what he was hearing. “Then who the hell are you?”

“Name’s Talon,” the griffon said, tapping a claw against the bars. “One of the Liberators."

"Liberators? Of what?" Loudbark asked with confusion.

He snickered with a smile but not showing outright offense at the ignorance. "Not surprised you don't know little pup. Used to fight under Kemerskai. You know, the Republic. The real deal before it all fell apart.” He smirked. “Not that I expect a mutt like you to know much about that, the emperor made sure we were forgotten.”

The diamond blinked, the words hitting him like a punch to the gut. “You’re one of Kemerskai’s soldiers?” he asked, disbelief clear in his voice.

“Was,” Talon corrected, shrugging like it didn’t matter. “Got caught when we pulled out of the capital. A whole lot of us didn’t make it, but lucky me, I got a nice, cozy cell here instead of a grave. Been rotting in this damn place ever since.”

“Why are you telling me this?” Loudbark asked cautiously. “You don’t even know who I am.”

The griffon chuckled, leaning closer to the bars. “I know enough,” he said, a glint in his scarred eye. “You’re not wearing any fancy uniforms, and you don’t have the look of a royalist lapdog. So, either you’re one of us who want to make a difference, or you’re some poor sap who got caught up at the wrong place at the wrong time.”

He could barely wrap his head around the fact that Talon was a former soldier of Kemerskai, one of the revolutionaries who had fought against the holy imperial family. Kemerskai’s treacherous uprising had been years ago, before Grover VI and he were even born. If Talon was telling the truth, that meant this being had been stuck in this prison for almost two decades, and Loudbark... well, Loudbark still had no idea how long he’d been unconscious or what was even happening outside the walls of this place.

He pushed himself up straight, trying to shake off the dizziness, his eyes narrowing as he focused on Talon again. “You wouldn’t happen to know what’s going on out there, would you?” Loudbark asked with a tinge of curiosity. “I mean... anything about the outside world? The emperor, or... or your leader?”

Talon just tilted his head, his grin fading into a tired, almost bored expression. “Outside? Heh. Haven’t heard a damn thing for years. They don’t exactly let us in on the news besides glating about the last Republicans stuck in the Duchy of Cloudbury, a weak, pitiful, duchy in the North to starve and kill each other.” He scoffed. "I don't believe for a second they would stray from the republican path. The Republic falling to banditry, and warlordism? HAH! Kemerskai would never allow it! I am sure."

He was wrong, for those problems were a very real problem in the rebelling territories of what once was the Duchy of Cloudbury was now a wasteland of the officers under Kemerskai that ruled like warlords, the situation of bantitry and looting got so bad that the socialists secceded to form their own country in the north and now were in conflict with their once fellow republicans. But that didn't matter to the dog, for that answer hit Loudbark harder than he expected. Not paying attention to the propagandist / Zealotic answer but the part about not knowing anything. His ears drooped slightly, and he felt a knot form in his stomach. “Damn it,” he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. “The emperor’s dead. The capital fell. It’s chaos out there... I don’t know who’s in charge anymore.”

Talon’s eyes flicked up, a quiet chuckle escaping him. “Ah.... Viva la Revolucion” he declared, his voice dripping with a kind of grim low amusement. “It's inevitable when oppression reigns. When people are in chains... resisting is the only choice they’ve got left. Good to see the masses aren't taking it lying down”

Loudbark blinked, his mind grappling with the response. “You... you think it’s a republican uprising? Are you that delusional?” He growled.

Talon’s gaze sharpened, a flicker of defiance in his posture as he stepped closer to the bars. “Of course i believe. You think it’s any surprise that the people would rise up? They’ve been living in the shadows of the royals for years, treated like animals. Every boot on their neck just made the rebellion come quicker. Revolution isn’t some random occurrence, dog. It’s the natural response when those in power refuse to listen.” He let the bars go as he preached passionately to the bewildered young diamond dog. "This isn't just chaos, doggy, it's a reckoning. It's what happens when those at the top forget that the people below them aren’t just tools. You can only grind someone down so much before they break, and when they break, they bite back." Loudbark crossed his arms, leaning against the wall of his cell. His expression hardened as he took in Talon's words, but he refused to be swayed by the griffon's fiery rhetoric.

“And what did that rebellion get you, Talon?” he said, his voice quiet. “You’re here, locked away in some royal dungeon, rotting. Meanwhile, the Empire you wanted to destroy is still out there, alive and well.”

Talon snorted, his scarred face twisting into a grimace. “Alive and well? Really? The gunshots outside are just a fashion statement i assume?" He asked sarcastically with a scoff. "You think this is about me you little reactionary fuck?” He gestured broadly with one claw as if to encompass the entire prison. “I’m just one soldier in a war bigger than any of us. What we started didn’t end with Kemerskai’s retreat and exile to the north, and it sure as hell didn’t end when I got thrown in here. Revolutions don’t die in dungeons. They live on in every griffon, every dog, every creature out there who’s sick of being a pawn in someone else’s game.”

The diamond dog shook his head, his ears flicking in irritation, clearly not buying it, but refusing to amuse the griffon, his patience at the mad-griff reaching a breaking point. “You call me a reactionary like it’s some kind of insult,” Loudbark began almost barring his teeth at the revolutionary. “But I wear my loyalty proudly. The Empire isn’t just some political structure or a banner flapping in the wind. It’s centuries of order, prosperity, and unity under the divine right of Grover’s bloodline. Do you think your revolution is something noble, something greater than yourself? It’s not. It’s chaos dressed up in rhetoric, a vanity project for self-important fanatics like you who think they know better than the gods who favored the Von Greifenstein's in the first place.”

Talon stared back, his scarred face unreadable for a moment. Then, he smirked, but there was no humor in it. Only cold disdain. “Loyalty, huh? You keep telling yourself that while your ‘gods-chosen’ emperors sit in their palaces, sipping wine, and sending creatures like you to die for them.”

Loudbark’s grip tightened on the bars, but he refused to rise to the bait. “Better to die for the Empire and it's people than to live for yourself.”

Loudbark and Talon’s argument ended with a tense, hostile silence. Loudbark’s chest rose and fell, his anger barely contained as he glared at the griffon on the other side of the bars. Talon met his gaze, his scarred face calm but his eyes burning with the same intensity. Neither of them spoke for a moment.

Then Talon snickered. It started as a low chuckle and grew into full-blown laughter, echoing off the clean stone walls of the corridor. Loudbark’s ears flattened against his head, his teeth bared as he snapped, “What’s so funny!?”

“Oh, it’s nothing,” Talon said, waving a claw dismissively as he fought to stifle his laughter. “It’s just... hilarious to me. The mighty Griffonian Empire, with all its pomp and glory, has more loyal subjects in Diamond Dogs than it does in its own kind and namesake. The irony’s almost poetic.” He leaned against the wall, shaking his head as his laughter subsided into a smug grin. “You dogs, bowing and scraping to the same empire that probably thought of you as nothing more than beasts not so long ago. It’s rich.”

Loudbark’s claws dug into his palms as his fists tightened. “You don’t know anything about us,” he growled. But he didn’t get a chance to say more as both their attentions turned once they heard a door opening at the end of the hall.

The sharp clanging of claws on stone broke through the tension, accompanied by the metallic clatter of armor. Both Loudbark and Talon turned toward the source of the noise, the argument forgotten in the appearance of possibly their captors. A group of griffon soldiers marched down the corridor. They bore the familiar imperial insignia, but there was something different about them, something that set them apart. Loudbark couldn’t tell if they were regular imperial troops or the mutineers, but the sight of them filled him with unease and he unoticing slowly backed away in worry.

The lead soldier, a stocky griffon with golden eyes, stopped in front of Loudbark’s cell. He looked at the dog with an expression that was hard to read. Half respectful, half impatient. “You’re Loudbark?” the griffon asked, his voice clipped and direct.

Loudbark straightened, caught off guard by the question. He felt he should lie and bullshit his way out of what could be trouble to him, but he also knew there was no point. “Yeah, that’s me,” he replied cautiously. “What’s this about?”

The soldier nodded once. “Dawnclaw’s orders. He’s freeing you. Wants to meet with you. Now, come on.” He gestured for the other soldiers to unlock the cell.

Loudbark blinked, his mind racing to process the information. Dawnclaw? Ferdinand Dawnclaw, the infamous General who rallied a rebellion and marched against the imperial throne? That Dawnclaw? Oh dear gods he was fucked. Why would he want to see him? Before he could ask any questions, the soldiers swung the cell door open and stepped aside, waiting for him to follow.

He hesitated momentarily, then stepped out into the corridor, glancing back at Talon one last time. The griffon was still leaning against the wall of his cell. As their eyes met, Talon raised a claw in a mock salute, a sly grin spreading across his beak.

“Good luck with your new master, little pup, it was nice debating with you.” Talon said with a smirk. “Hope he’s got a nice leash for you.”

Loudbark clenched his jaw, his ears twitching with irritation, but he didn’t reply. He turned away and followed the soldiers down the corridor.

Slowly they left the alley that had been the boy's temporary 'residence' (if one can even call it that) the night prior. The Changeling carried the royal child through the capital. Thranx remained in his griffon form, the feathers of his griffon disguise ruffled and stained from attempting to avoid the battles that had raged just hours earlier. The streets were a nightmare, but nothing compared to the one raging in his mind.

He had hesitated when it mattered most. He, a Major in the Changeling Army, who had faced the horrors of war and survived countless battles against the ponies in Canterlot, had faltered in the face of a child's desperate cries. Granted, the fight against those harmony-worshiping little marshmalows was absolutely nothing like the carnage at the capital, the ponies fought without any ill intent and casualties were absurdly rare, but here? The griffons fought to kill, and they wre experts at it. The difference was as clear as day, same as the shame upon him that was unbearable.

The child's life had been hanging by a thread that night, and Thranx had been too paralyzed by his own fear to act. It wasn't the fear of combat or the rebels who had swarmed the city. It was something deeper, a fear that cut through his military facade and exposed the cowardice he had never wanted to acknowledge. The fear of failure and reprisal at the hooves of the megalomaniacal Tyrant that Chrysalis was.

As he looked down at Grover, who was still clutching him tightly in his 'claws', Thranx could feel the boy's emotions from his changeling instincts. The panic that had seized the child in the alley still lingered, with heavy breaths and the occasional shudder that came through his adolescent body, the boy must be merely 14 barely reaching 16 by his size, the poor thing by griffon standards must still be a teen. Forced to take a life. What a horrible week.

Thranx's eyes took in the aftermath of the coup attempt as they walked. The streets were littered with the remnants of the conflict, barricades hastily erected by the loyalists now lay in ruin, they obviously failed in their tasks. Bodies of those who had fought and lost, griffons lay twisted and broken in the streets their sides and allegiances mattering little now that they weren't alive any longer, with many construction and cleanup crews coming and going by the streets. Some bodies were being carried away by solemn-faced soldiers and civilians who probably volunteered to help. In contrast, others still lay where they had fallen, their lifeless eyes staring up at a sky that had long since stopped caring. The smell of the dead hung thick in the air, mingling with the smell of gunpowder and the faint, sickly sweet odor of burning wood from the many houses caught by a missed artillery shell or something else the Changeling didn't want to ponder.

Grover's eyes were blank, darting from one horrific scene to another, silent in a stare he knew from only those who saw death for the first time. The stare was reserved for soldiers in their first battles. A stare that shouldn't ever be planted upon a child, whose life had been one of privilege, shielded from the brutal realities of the world outside the palace walls. Now, those walls had come crashing down, leaving him exposed to the raw, unfiltered brutality of life and death. Thranx could feel the boy's grip tighten slightly.

The walk was not long, less than a few minutes, yet for both it felt like hours as they walked by the wartorn city with the smell of ash and blood.

The palace loomed in the distance. Normally a symbol of Griffonian strength and splendor, it was now visibly scared by the violence that had taken over the capital. Thranx could see the damage from this distance, one of the outer towers had partially collapsed from probably artillery fire with the roof of the entrance having suffered the same fate. Smoke still drifted from the main structure, the black streaks staining the once-pristine walls.

The closer they got, the more apparent the devastation became. The streets leading to the palace were more intact than the outer districts, but the signs of battle were no less severe. Scorch marks from magical blasts and gunfire pockmarked the cobblestones and nearby walls. A cart lay overturned to one side, its contents spilled and abandoned. Banners of the Imperial crest were torn and fluttered limply in the breeze, some trampled into the dirt.

The changeling’s sharp instincts kept him scanning for threats, though his griffon disguise remained stoic. The path leading to the grand entrance was eerily quiet.

The moment they came into view of the palace guards, the sentries snapped to attention. Their polished armor gleamed, despite the soot and grime that marred the rest of the capital. The lead guard stepped forward, his eyes briefly assessing the pair before widening in recognition. Without hesitation, he bowed deeply, his comrades following suit.

“Your Majesty,” the lead guard said solemnly, his voice firm but reverent. “You are expected. Please, enter the palace.”

Grover stiffened at the display, his feathers puffing slightly in discomfort. For a moment, the boy clung tighter to Thranx’s arm, but then he stopped. Slowly, he released his grip and lowered himself to the ground. His claws trembled slightly as he adjusted his footing, but he squared his shoulders and raised his chin.

“I can walk,” Grover said, his voice soft but determined. “Thank you.”

Thranx blinked, startled by the sudden shift. “Kid.... Your highness... You’ve been through—”

“No,” Grover interrupted, shaking his head as he stepped forward. “It’s embarrassing. I... I shouldn’t be so fearful and pathetic, i am a Greifenstein.... I’m supposed to-” His voice faltered for a moment before he pressed on. “I’m supposed to be better than this.” The boy was clearly not convincing himself with the words.

Thranx opened his beak to protest, but one of the guards spoke before he could. “A noble sentiment, Your Majesty,” the guard said with a nod, his tone approving. “You honor your ancestors with such conviction.” The second guard nodded in agreement, his expression equally serious.

Thranx felt a twinge of frustration and dismay. What honor? He’s a child! There is no honor in this! He swallowed his protest, biting back the urge to argue. The guards’ approval was clear, but the changeling’s instincts screamed that this was wrong. Forcing the boy to act “dignified” under such dire circumstances felt more like a punishment than a example in leadership.

Still, what unnerved him most wasn’t Grover’s struggle or the guards’ words. It was the fact that they had been expected. The griffons here seemed unfazed at their arrival, as if they had known of their approach long before they even turned the street.

The silence as they approached the palace, the lack of anyone else on the streets, and the guards’ calm demeanor now clicked together in Thranx’s mind. We were being watched. His feathers ruffled instinctively, and he swallowed hard, his unease now showing in his disguise as his heart sank. If the situation had seemed precarious before, it was worse now. The fact that their arrival had been anticipated without any visible escort or signal meant that someone, likely someone in power and in control of the capital had eyes everywhere. Thranx didn’t know whether to feel relieved or terrified by the prospect.

As the grand doors of the palace swung open, Thranx’s unease deepened the more they entered the surprisingly well preserved palace, it seemed the rebelling troops went through an extra mile to keep the palace untouched. At the end of the hall stood a figure that made Thranx’s heart sink into his stomach, with a grin that could frighten a dragon stood Ferdinand Dawnclaw.

The griffon general stood tall, his powerful frame clad in a pristine uniform. His piercing crimson eyes sharp as a blade locked onto Grover, and for a split second, Thranx’s instincts screamed at him to act, to shield the boy, to grab Grover and bolt from this immediate threat.

The guards escorting them saluted sharply and stepped back. “Dawnclaw sir, as requested,” one of them said before excusing themselves with a bow.

“Dismissed,” Ferdinand replied curtly, not even sparing them a glance as his eyes remained fixed on Grover.

The heavy doors closed behind them with a resounding thud, leaving Thranx alone with the boy and the infamous general.

'This is bad. This is so much worse than I thought.' A sweat came from the forehead of the Changeling's disguise. His mind raced, recalling everything he’d heard and saw about Ferdinand. This was the griffon who had raised his banners in rebellion, the very one who had marched on the capital with an army at his back. If rumors were to be believed, this was the griffon responsible for the death of Emperor Grover V. And now he’s here. With the heir. Alone.

Every fiber of Thranx’s being screamed that this man couldn’t be allowed anywhere near the child, but before he could act, Ferdinand did something that froze him in place.

The feared general dropped to one knee before the boy, his expression softening into something... almost gentle.

“Your Majesty,” Ferdinand said, his deep voice reverberating through the chamber, but it carried no malice. “In my honor as a imperial soldier under the crown. I am relieved beyond words to see you safe.”

Grover blinked in surprise, his feathery brows furrowing as he stared at the kneeling griffon. The boy had been trying so hard to project a stoic front, but the sight of the formidable general bowing to him visibly disarmed him.

Ferdinand’s eyes briefly scanned the boy, noting the state of his tattered clothes and the grime clinging to his feathers. His beak curved into a faint frown. “Though I must say,” he continued, “you’ve been through more than any young griffon should ever endure. To see you like this... it is a failure on all of us who swore to protect the Empire. For that, i am sorry tour majesty.”

Thranx could hardly believe what he was seeing. 'This isn’t Ferdinand Dawnclaw. This can’t be the butcher of the capital, the rebel leader who now is the reason the Empire it's tearing itself apart.' He thought with a mix of fear and apprehention at the albino.

Yet there he was, speaking with an air of sincerity that made Grover’s cautious exterior begin to crack. The boy nodded, his expression softening, even showing a glimmer of gratitude. Ferdinand Dawnclaw rose from his kneeling position, his powerful form towering over the young heir. Gesturing for them to follow, he turned and began walking deeper into the palace.

"I will admit, Your Majesty," he began, his voice steady but tinged with a note of shame, "I tried. I tried to save your father. To protect him from the treachery of the nobles....." His words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken implications.

Grover hesitated, his small claws clenching at his sides as he tried to hold back the fear creeping into his voice. "My father... is he safe? Is he okay?"

Thranx felt a chill run through him as he watched Ferdinand’s eyes. Despite the general’s outward expression of remorse, the changeling could feel it, cold indifference buried beneath a carefully constructed facade. But he kept silent, he knew that he could not attract the gaze of that hungry predator.

Dawnclaw’s beak tightened briefly, his gaze forward as he continued walking. “I was too late, Your Majesty,” he said, his voice dropping in pitch.

Grover faltered, his smaller frame trembling as the weight of those words hit him. His breath hitched, and before he could collapse into despair, Dawnclaw stopped in front of a grand set of doors. The general’s talons pushed them open, revealing the throne room.

The sight inside was a nightmare.

At the center of the room, upon the Empire’s grand throne, sat Emperor Grover V. His once-proud form was now a ghastly shadow of its former self, his body slumped lifelessly in the massive seat. Hundreds of tubes and wires snaked from his body, connecting him to a monstrous contraption that enveloped the throne. It hissed and pulsed with a grotesque rhythm and beeps of medical equipment, the only sign of life in the otherwise silent room.

"Father!" The Grover junior cried out, rushing forward. He threw himself at the throne, clutching at his father’s legs in absolute dispair and worry. “Father, it’s me! Are you okay?"

There was no response, not even a rection to his touch, merely silence.

"What happened?? Are you hurt??"

His father did not answer.

"Please... Daddy, say something!”

But there was no response.

Grover V sat unmoving, his eye half-open and glassy while his red optic had no light in it, his chest rising extremely slow under the mess of tubes, barely properly breathing.

Thranx’s breath caught in his throat. His changeling instincts screamed at him to run. The grotesque mockery of life before him was beyond anything he’d ever encountered. His stomach churned as he thought of how they had desecrated the emperor’s body to fuse it with this infernal contraption.

“He is Alive your majesty,” Dawnclaw said matter-of-factly, stepping forward. “I managed to save him, but... it wasn’t enough to truly restore him. He’s in a deep slumber now, a kind of... suspended state. The Empire needs its symbol, after all.”

The general’s voice sounded proud, but his words struck Thranx like a physical blow. His eyes darted between the abomination on the throne and the grief-stricken child. The emperor wasn’t alive, not truly. This was a corpse on display, an insult to any dignity the griffon claimed to have.

Grover VI’s sobs echoed in the throne room, his small body trembling as he clung to his father. “Father, please... wake up. Please...” His cries were raw, a sound of pure heartbreak that pierced the changeling’s hardened military exterior. The poor kid, who had already been forced to sleep unto the streets on the middle of a war in the capital, who was forced to fight and kill to just keep himself alive, now was forced to see his father's body dead.

Thranx’s own horror deepened as he glanced at Dawnclaw, who stood silently, unfazed by the scene before him. This wasn’t salvation. It was madness.

Grover's small frame shook with each sob as he buried his face into his father’s lifeless legs. Between gasps for air, he choked out the question that hung heavily in the room. “H-how... h-how did this happen?”

Dawnclaw stood beside the changeling, his face a mask of solemnity. He gestured broadly toward the throne as though the grotesque machinery were some kind of justification. “When I arrived, Your Majesty, your father was already in this state. I found him in his medical ward, lifeless and abandoned.”

Thranx’s mind went into overdrive as he remembered very well the prelude for the Grover Senior to getting to the palace, his son charging headfirst into the chaos in between two squads of griffons of opossing factions in the chaos that was the first hours of conflict in the capital their weapons raised against each other in a desperate skirmish. And at the center of it all, the emperor’s body, being dragged through the crowd to be saved in some way.

Thranx remembered seeing at the distance and hearing Grover’s cries, his desperate attempts to be recognized, to claim his father’s body. But he was refused, by soldiers too lost in their own struggle to see the child for who he was. It was tragic. All of this was tragic.

The changeling's eyes darted where the young heir remained at his father’s feet, trembling as his sobs subsided. A dangerous silence came suddenly as the sobs stopped. “Who did this?” Grover whispered, his voice hoarse but laced with something darker. He lifted his head, his tear-streaked face with his eyes red from the tears. “Who hurt my daddy?”

Thranx’s heart sank. He could feel the raw, unbridled and uncontrolable emotion coming from the boy, and it wasn't grief and sadness. It was something else, it was hatred.

And then he saw it, the subtle, predatory curve of a smile forming on Dawnclaw’s beak. It was faint, fleeting, but unmistakable. Thranx froze as the general leaned forward slightly, his voice calm yet poisoned with intent.

“It was Eros, your majesty” Dawnclaw said simply his face showing sadness to the boy but inside, the changeling could feel.... Satisfaction... “He entered your father’s chambers... and when he left, the emperor was dead.” Thranx's face lit with realization of what the albino was doing at that exact moment, as he felt the burning hatred that was set ablaze in the heart of the boy.

For the capture of the capital wasn't Ferdinand's true goal, it was something far bigger. And the changeling could only watch in silent terror as he took complete advantage of the grieving and mentaly unstable boy.

The ultimate coup'deat.

Author's Note

Happy new year my friends! Love you all and thank for reading!

1 - Let there be warmth

He saw nothing, could feel nothing. His muscles refuse to obey, he wants to scream but his vocal channels won't respond.

He tried to reach out his hand but he felt like he was being squeezed all over his body, his eyes wouldn't open no matter how much he struggled. It was as if his eyelids didn't have the capabilities yet to work. The desperation in his body only drove him to try again and again. Every muscle in his body should be working and moving right now.

He wanted to see, he wanted answers, he wanted to get out of there.

...

But nothing.

Only the great emptiness answered him.

He tried and tried and tried again. Always trying the same things as before expecting a different result. He knew it was stupid, but he was desperate. It was an invisible prison, where she took everything he relied on and trusted; his senses. He felt like he was in that nothingness for an eternity. He could think but could do nothing, he could try but nothing he felt.

Touch, smell, and hearing, it was as if nothing worked.

Had he died.....?

Did he have a life before all this....?

Or this was his first time actually having his own thoughts?

He tried and tried again to remember. But like all his past attempts here he achieved nothing. It was a void, a blank book. But he knew there had to be more than just pitch black! He knew that something existed before all this! But he couldn't find it. It was as if he was going around in circles in his own memories.

The 'here' didn't answer him. The here didn't care.

He couldn't do anything, he could do nothing. All this was futile. Everything he tried was always bound to fail in all this darkness.

So was this his fate?

Trapped in an eternal dark abyss to be deprived of everything that made him a living being?

......

No!

He wasn't going to give up that easily. He refused to accept that this was his destiny.

This time he concentrated what he could on his body again, this time trying to move. He tried to struggle, grab something and try to shake himself.

Finally, something happened.

He felt something.

He felt as if something sticky was slipping between his fingers. It was like jelly, something extremely sticky but very soft.

He was finally able to feel something in his hands!

In his excitement, he pulled himself up, as if swimming in a sticky sea and wasting all his energy. Even though he was trying so hard, he didn't seem to move, but he knew he was getting closer to something. His hand seemed to touch a solid surface. Touching it he felt it was extremely hard, a curved wall perhaps? He did not know.

He placed his hand on the surface of the wall and pressed on it, trying to push it away. It didn't work.

He then tried to rip the surface with his fingernails... But he didn't know if they were real nails. They were much longer and sharper than what he felt when he poked at the wall.

He had claws.

He didn't know how he had…nails instead of claws. But he knew he didn't have them before...

But he ignored that train of thought and tried again to tear his obstacle in front of him. He tried and tried but failed, the surface was simply too resistant to his claws.

What could he do? He had gone too far to give up now!

'Your beak, use it'

What?

What was that thought?

It wasn't his... But at the same time, it was... It was as if his body was telling him what to do...

A beak...? Yes.... A pointed mouth..... He had a beak....

Was it his Primal Instinct?

He didn't know it, but he then brought his face closer to the hard surface and did what his conscience told him to do.

Bringing his head back, he brought her hard against the wall as he closed his face in preparation for the expected pain.

Crack

A sound! A cracking sound!

He felt it! The wall was breaking!

He could feel something else now. Heat. A different heat from the source of the sticky stuff that surrounded him on all sides. Something outside inside his claustrophobic 'prison'.

He repeated the process, and the cracks increased and that feeling of heat increased on his skin.

It was a nice, comforting heat. He wanted more. He needed more.

The wall seemed to be stuck together by the sticky substance even though it was all cracked, but that didn't stop him one bit.

More and more he managed to break through the wall. Now the lower part of his face was already sticking out to the other side. He could feel the heat that found him outside with a new fervor, but he felt an icy breeze along with it. A mixture that confused him but intrigued him even more.

It made him want to go out even more.

After more struggle, he was exhausted. But with one last effort, he slipped through the hole to freedom.

.....

How cold..... The heat he felt inside his prison didn't burn as much as he wanted now. It didn't bring him the heat he wanted and that he sought so much...

He wanted to go back there. Back to his prison, where this cold didn't exist.

Slowly he tried to get up, failing miserably. His leg muscles worked in ways he was sure were wrong. His leg felt like his knee had shifted and his spine didn't feel the same anymore. The floor was soft, with each crawl he gave he felt only comfort, even with the sensation of his body being drenched in a liquid he still didn't know what it was.

And worst of all, he couldn't open his eyes. But he could finally feel his surroundings clearly and try to identify where he was.

"Amazing! He just hatched and is already walking!" His ears perk up at this. "Congratulations Your Majesty! You were clearly blessed by Eyr to have a newly hatched son with such strength and vigor!"

What was he listening to? They weren't normal sounds... They had... A pattern, a sequence that didn't seem to be random. And there was more than one.

He instinctively looked in the direction from where he heard these sounds that reminded him of something, which he couldn't remember but believed must be very important.

The sounds changed and now seemed to be more... Excited...? They weren't just any sounds, it seemed like they were... Voices?

"Look! He's listening to us!" The voices sounded like they were... Surprised...? He did not know.

But he quickly flinched as he began to feel a tremor. It was low but still easily perceptible along with a 'thump, thump' sound with an interval of less than a second.

And whatever it was, the tremor was getting closer to him.

His instincts again came to him, but this time they didn't advise him. they screamed.

DANGER!

Sensing where the vibrations came from he got up on two legs and tried to get as big as he could and tried to look as intimidating as possible along with his sharp claws. If they could cut through that wall, he felt they could cut through anything else.

He didn't know how to fight against such a massive monster/being. He knew he was tiny compared to the possible hostile creature that just by his footsteps he could feel the pressure of his foot hitting the ground.

He shouldn't stand a chance, but he refused to fall easily or let himself become food. He was finally out of that prison and he refused to go down so soon after working so hard to get there.

The bangs stopped. And a new sound emerged, it was like the voices, but this time it was a repeating pattern and it was with a happy tone. He didn't hear anything before, but if it had he didn't listen.

Was it a laugh?

It confused him but it didn't make him let his guard down, he needed to focus on what was in his front.

"Calm down my dear son, I didn't come to harm you." A voice, much closer than he'd expected, came. It made him tense for a moment, but that changed immediately after he identified the tone of his voice.

It was... soothing....

Familiar.....

The adrenaline in his body that had been produced with the desperation of the fear of the unknown left his system as quickly as it had entered and the muscles in his undeveloped legs screamed in a pain that came all at once, having built up from the exertion in his (Failed) intimidation attempt.

He then nearly plummeted, his legs giving up on holding his weight and fell.

But he got caught by something huge that saved him from a painful fall.

That warmth he had craved so much from the moment he came out of his prison came back with full force. He could feel it all over his body. Even though he felt like being lifted and could no longer feel the ground, he couldn't feel fear or worry. For that heat was the kind that didn't burn, hurt or bother him.

It was the opposite. He wanted more, he liked it.

Silently, he relaxed and snuggled into the heat. He felt safe, he felt good. So good that he didn't even notice when sleep took over his body and dreams took over his thoughts.

He had never felt so proud in his life as at that moment, his son had surpassed all his expectations by miles. Everything that could go right in the hatching of his son, went right.

He came out of his egg by himself without any outside help. A good sign that demonstrated its strength. The Emperor was scared for a moment seeing how long it took for the egg to hatch when he saw the first signs of life. But of course, after a little persistence from the father and a little patience, the son managed to surprise them by almost jumping out of the egg.

This alleviated an enormous fear that the ruler harbored. With the coming of his son's birth, it also brought him horrible memories of his own birth, which he had needed a doctor's help to break out of the shell of his egg on the day of his birth.

A monumental bad omen, bringing doubts about his abilities that would be carried for the rest of his life and what made the first vestiges of a nickname he would be forced to carry for the rest of his life.

'The weak.'

Needing help to hatch is a sign of weakness and bad luck, a sign that they didn't have the approval or acceptance of the gods. And worst of all, it also made his bodily weakness discovered to the whole world when the rumors spread.

And this time, it was considered sacred to the Griffon culture. Since the times of the first Griffon tribes, strength was everything and the first test for a true Griffon was whether they were strong enough to be born. The weak died without being able to hatch and the strongest were those who thrived and were given the privilege of being born into the world.

At least that was how the beliefs of the time were, with the ages of past civilizations being left behind the barbaric practices were abandoned. But the mentality and superstition remained even as generations passed.

But his son proved to be much stronger as well as extremely persistent, much to Grover's pride. Who was watching it all with anticipation, sitting in front of the huge cradle that held the egg bearing his son. He was watching and waiting for two long hours for this event along with a contingent of trusted religious advisers and nobles who had been invited to such an important event.

Only 5 had the honor of witnessing such an event. The three Archons, and two of the most powerful Dukes. When the egg finally hatched and its pieces flew off, a low cheer went up from everyone present in the royal nursery.

But the cheers would be silenced when they realized that the newborn had tried to get up, surprising many of the guests and doctors who prepared to examine him.

So he tried again and failed, so he tired from what he looked like, lifted his head and started looking around even with his eyes closed. That was extremely smart for a newborn! He was just supposed to be lying on the pillow beneath the egg and screaming for his father for food and shelter.

And now that he stopped to notice, his son didn't cry or scream at all. He just showed curiosity and persistence in walking being less than hour old.

"Amazing! He just hatched and is already walking!" One of the doctors exclaimed from the corner of the room in surprise as he looked at the others who proved just as surprised as he was.

The Emperor received a lot of congratulations and applause as an Archon laughed in glee beside him. Erion XII came to him and clasped his claws with a smile. The Archon of Eyr the goddess of fertility.

"Congratulations Your Majesty! You were clearly blessed by Eyr to have a newly hatched son with such strength and vigor!" he says with a smile as he motioned to the crib. He only responded with a nod, not having much will to force a smile or a fake thank you. He could only think of his son.

But something surprised him again when he realized that his son was looking at the nobles, more directly at him. His father.

"Look! He's listening to us!" Duchess Gabriela, the Emperor's cousin spoke with an 'awww' tone, she obviously thought the newborn was adorable.

The Emperor just looked back at his son. So small, helpless, and confused. He was under stress. He needed his father.

He then slowly, trying not to scare his son, walked towards the crib to pick him up.

His son then decided to surprise him again and make him even more proud. For in his body language, he showed that he had noticed his father walking toward him.

But he didn't do like an ordinary newborn and just sit still while crying helplessly. He gathered strength that the monarch didn't knew his son could even muster and managed for the first time in a few minutes after being born, to stand on his hind legs. Not only that, but he had outstretched claws and had a aggressive stance while his tiny wings opened in a attempt to look more intimidating.

His new born son was Challenging his own father in combat.

Another laugh dominated the atmosphere of the room, this time being thicker and more powerful than before, drawing the attention of the monarch who looks sideways at the source. Encountering Proteus III the Archon of Arcturius, the god of war.

"This young man has a warrior spirit your majesty! It seems he has received Arcturius' favor!" The Battle-hardened warrior would show a big smile as he rested one of his hands on the hilt of his holy sword.

But again, he ignored the religious figure and focused on his son. Slowly kneeling in front of his child and being much more careful not to scare him further.

"Calm down my dear son, I didn't come to harm you." He says as he slowly gets closer to the newborn. Using his calmest voice he tried to calm his son even though he knew he wouldn't hear or understand him properly, yet he did.

And it worked.

His son's claws dropped and his stance of aggression fell along his body. Which he quickly managed to catch before his son could get hurt in his little fall. Bringing him closer and placing him on his chest with one of his claws. Unable to resist a warm smile as he felt his son snuggling into him and falling asleep.

Apparently, he had already earned the respect and approval of two of the three Archons. His cousin and the Grand Duke he didn't know. But he would already accept this small victory from his little warrior.

He wouldn't have noticed that the third Archon was already right in front of the Emperor, his eyes glued to the baby. His expression was indistinguishable.

Eros VII the Archon of Boreas, the most powerful and admired of all the gods simply nodded his head.

"Your son is promising your highness."

Author's Note

First story this year! And this is one I've been planning for a while but never had the courage to write. But now it's finally here! I hope you enjoyed.

The Emperor

5 - Wings of a Father

Singing, drinking, and laughter dominated the camp on the night of the full moon. Around the fires, griffons in all manner of clothing sat.

'I will have to impose more discipline on these idiots one of these days, but this raid was very profitable. So I'll be lenient with them this time.' He thought as he walked past the fields, ignoring the cheers that accompanied him as he passed his... 'Clansman'.

The moonlight reflected the glow of his stolen flat crown, its jewels standing out against its golden surface. His light brown fur remained dark in the night, his brown eyes silently judging those who obeyed him.

"You're not in a good mood boss." A voice came from beside him, revealed to be a griffon in worn-out Griffonian army officer's clothing. "What's wrong?"

"I don't know how, but that crippled idiot had the strength to have a child..." He grunted mockingly as his subordinate looked surprised. "The bastard can barely walk properly and he managed to do the deed."

"You mean...?" His Boss just stopped at the edge of the harvest they were camping in.

The Griffon stood on the edge watching the horizon, letting his cape fly in the mountain breezes past them.

"The Emperor has a son now... The succession crisis I hoped looks like it won't happen..." He broke the news, sounding disappointed. Taking advantage of the fractured empire and with such a crisis would give the bandit kingdom he ruled many riches and slaves. But he would adapt and overcome as always.

"But this boy... He looked very interesting..." The Griffon ran its claws over the tip of its beak, which showed to be a metallic part. "The Sixth..." A smile showed its way out of his beak. "He's going to be as weak as his father." He turned to his subordinate, who was showing extreme interest in his boss's words. "He will recognize me as lord of these lands, just as the one who brought him into the world."

"And if he doesn't... Sir?" The subordinate hesitated as he saw his master's brown eyes boring into his head with the question, but he only returned his gaze to the horizon in front of him.

"If not. He will learn the horror of defying the Sunstriker Clan." He grinned as he gave the subordinate a sideways glance. "And more land for us to... Enjoy... Don't you think?"

The Officer replied with a smile of his own. "Right as always, Eriviar sir."

He read more and more reports at his desk along with a group of other officers. Who looked at him with variable expressions; from confusion, and interest, to irritation.

It was late at night, the meeting had been hastily called, and many of the officers were asleep by the time the messengers arrived at their locations. But the President was extremely persistent and called the occurrence urgently.

"What's now Kemerskai? This better be worth it! We already had an 8-hour meeting and you still drag us here in the middle of the night??" Kemerskai's green eyes strayed to his fellow Griffon, it was an officer with blue-purple fur and green eyes like his own. Bearing a mustache on either side of its beak.

The leader of the National Revolutionary Front was a competent and loyal officer, but very uncompromising with any other member who demonstrates an ideology that diverges from the Republicans. It exemplifies the most brutal aspects of the Republican Revolution, and his desired path to take revenge on the Empire involves a lot of bloodshed.

"That meeting wouldn't have taken so long if his followers had been more open-minded on foreign policy, Suntail." The Griffon took his strained gaze from his President and addressed the voice that was aimed at him. Another officer who this time had red fur, with gray eyes and an eye patch over his right eye.

A mentor and comrade to Kemerskai when he joined the army and his subsequent right-hand man in the revolution, having obtained the official vice president position. Even if he got into a lot of conflict with Kemerskai on many matters relevant to the presidency.

"More 'open-minded'? I expected nothing more than a royalist sympathizer like you Rosewing. Having Diamond Dogs accepted into our ranks is a complete mistake and I won't change my mind." He growled at his fellow officer. Which rolled her eyes at clear hostility.

"That's why we couldn't come to any agreement. You and your baseless racism just fuck up all the progress and unity we've achieved." Suntail sank his claws into the table, grinding his beak as he glared at him.

"Those things are only good for licking the emperor's paws. Those royal bastards deserve to die-"

"Enough." All eyes now returned to Kemerskai, who rose from his desk while holding a briefcase in his right grip, a serene expression maintained even in the face of his officers' pointless squabbles.

"I didn't summon you here for this matter that will be resolved at a future date. But something that will show a threat and urgent need to totally change our future plans." Now he had the attention of everyone in the room.

Tossing the folder in the middle of the table, spreading out the contents inside for everyone to see, he made many there bulge their eyes in surprise, and others gnash their beaks in nervousness.

"Impossible.... This was not foreseen!" Suntail exclaimed, clearly frustrated with the development. The Folder showed pictures of the Emperor holding a child identical to himself on his wings, smiling as confetti fell around him demonstrating obvious celebrations.

"The Emperor has gained an heir." A huge silence fell over the room. None of them even dared to break him in the face of such monumental news as this.

"The Christening happened a few days ago." Everyone watched as the President-Marshal was silent, swallowing the news. "This will either prove to be an advantage or a massive problem. Time for a change of plans."

He looked in wonder at all of.... That....

He didn't quite know how to describe it, but it was like the palace he was in but much smaller. Like it was a miniature and square version. And there were thousands of them all scattered as far as that luminous ball's light could touch.

Houses. They were all grouped together, leaving an open line between them where people passed by.

There were so many! As many as he and Dad could see up there. They were so small down there from what he could see from the porch, so small... so insignificant...

"Beautiful is not it?" He turned to his side, his father in his beautiful golden regalia standing beside him. He didn't have his crown. Yet his glow didn't dim, while giving off that warmth he'd always loved.

He nodded very quickly in excitement, making his father laugh to himself at how adorable his son looked.

"People...." The Little Griffon managed to let go, causing his father to look at him in surprise. "small..."

He let out a laugh at that, of course! They stood so high the balcony of their room in the palace, in a tower so high above one of the greatest buildings in Griffenheim.

"Yes, they are quite small from here." The Monarch returned his gaze to the capital, at the wonderful at sunset over the city.

He still couldn't get it through his head how young his son was, and already being able to formulate understandable sentences. He could have conversations with his son, even though it was difficult for him to formulate words, it was impressive.

His heart was filled with pride just looking at his son, his mature gaze in the face of such new terrain, and so well behaved in the most crowded places, just as in his christening... He still couldn't contain his smile when he remembered how his son behaved, he was barely born and was already educated and acted like a proper noble.

Emperor Grover never considered himself the biggest and most religious Griffon. Yes he prayed and thought about the gods, but only out of obligation.

But after the birth of his child? It was every morning after waking up and every night in bed before going to sleep, thanking each of the three gods individually for the blessing for such a resilient, educated, strong and intelligent son.

It was a miraculous thing that his son could do so many things at such a young age. The reason was obvious, the gods had blessed him.

He was perfect, he was the example of what a good baby should be and more.

Only a year old, and he was already sitting next to his father watching the horizon. And better yet, chatting with him. (Even if knowing how to speak very little)

The emperor couldn't help himself, and extended his right claw to stroke his son's head. Who gratefully accepted it, making murmurs of happiness.

'I am a blessed Griffon.' His beak widened his smile even more. Before his child, the father had a very low motivation, almost non-existent. But at the birth of this little bag of joy, everything changed.

For the first time in a long time, Grover was happy, genuinely happy. He perked up when he woke up energized for the day ahead. The mountains of papers and bureocracy no longer mattered, the greedy nobles and false admirers no longer disturbed him as much as before. His illness and weak body didn't bother him as much as before.

For now he had a reason to move on, to face all these problems head on. He was now a new Griffon.

The responsibilities of managing the empire became something more tolerable. For just meeting his son again at the end of the day was the greatest reward he could ever receive after a long day of work.

He had never realized how empty he felt... Even with the love of his life, he couldn't truly enjoy life at its fullest. But now he felt complete, he felt truly alive.

"Father..." The Little Griffon repeated the first word he had spoken since his birth, making the Emperor beam at his caramel-colored son. Meeting his beautiful blue eyes that could easily rival the most beautiful sea.

"Yes sweetheart?" He closed his eyes as he continued to stroke the feathers on his son's head.

"Why...they down there?" he asked hesitantly as his small head struggled to form the words.

"They who? The people?" Junior nodded. "It's because we are nobles."

The Sixth turned his head confused, his father just chuckled nervously. 'Of course he doesn't know what a noble is. Grover you idiot.'

"We.... Are of a higher group of people." He tried to find the right words as he swung his claws around trying to empathize his words to his son.

"Higher...?" the boy asked, showing clear curiosity, excited to learn more.

'Of course you want to devour more information, never accepting something at face value....' The father thought, laughing quietly.

"They are commoners, a class of common people and with less... things than us. They work, feed us and fight for us." He passed his claws to the Griffons walking below. "Nobles are the ruling class, those-"

"R-ruwing?" He interrupted his father, who smiled as he shook his head.

"Ruling. It's bossing others around, telling them what to do." The Son nodded in the affirmative, his father then continued his explanation. "Those who were born of an older group of those who rule."

He then raised an indicative claw. "Rule is same as ruling."

"What... Let us... Rule?" the child asked, causing his father to look curiously at his son.

"I'm Sorry?"

The Son was embarrassed that his father had not understood him, but continued. "Why... can we order... on others?"

The father was surprised by his son's line of questioning, but before he could say anything the little one continued.

"What...makes us...better than...them?" the boy asked, genuinely confused.

The Father could only look shocked at his son. 'So young! So young and asking questions that noble adults don't have the courage to ponder!'

"That's.... An excellent question my son." He paused for a moment to ponder as he ran his right claws over his son's wings, much to his delight. While its other claws grazed its beak in reflection.

'What makes a noble truly a noble..?' The most common answer would be divine mandate, the nobles had been granted the right to be better than the commoners below them to take advantage of and abuse them as they saw fit. But he knew that wasn't the right answer.

'No, I refuse to make my son become a greedy nobleman who uses status only for his own interests.' His expression changed to one of determination. 'He will be better, he is already better, but I will guarantee that he stays that way.'

He looked at his son, removing his claws from the smaller's wings, who let out a grunt of complaint. Which quickly dissipated as he looked at his father.

"Nobility doesn't make us better than they do, it just gives us an even greater responsibility."

"R-responsibiwity?" His father nodded his head.

"Our duty, the Nobility comes from here." He jabbed his son's feathered chest with his claw. "It comes from within."

"From...within?" The little one would pat his confused chest, turning his attention to his father.

"Yes, Nobility is the act of helping. That's why we stay here." He would run his claws around the balcony to the castle. "On the top."

"So that we can spread our wings across this land." He extended his own wings in symbolism, much to his son's surprise and growing admiration. "And then we embrace them all with our capabilities, keeping them warm on the cold nights. And protecting them from anything that could hurt them from outside of our wings." He finished with his wings closing, one of them passing his son and pulling him closer to his father.

"And this-" He finished as his wing squeezed his son in a wing hug. "is the true meaning of nobility."

It didn't truly answer the question of his son, however, not even he had the answer to such a deep question.

Those words from his father, Grover Sixth would carry with him for the rest of his life. Words he would carry with pride, and something he would follow until his last days.

Author's Note

Sorry for the lateness! Hope you enjoy!

Eriviar Sunstriker

Alexander Kemerskai

Reinhard Suntail

Claus Rosewing

7 - Bugging a Queen

His footsteps echoed through the halls, the sound of claws scraping across the concrete floor. Even with all the movement around him, he kept his gaze forward, his mind flying to a thousand and one places.

Today was Grover's third birthday party. And it showed, soldiers marched to all sides to ensure that the palace would be safe from the huge flow of nobles and influential figures who would enter and stay all together in a single building. It was funny how a common event in every Griffon's life could have to be so well planned and prepared. But with the number of enemies the Empire now had with the fragmentation of the old continent-spanning territories. It was a miracle they still had the core regions of the old empire.

The old Empire the world once knew is now long dead, with the Herzland being the only remaining loyalists still standing and able to fend off external threats. Now with political and economic instability after riots after riots, they could go back to their 'normal' lives. But the castle naturally was always amassed by the best trained, armed, experienced, and loyal troops in the entire empire. Their metal armor gleamed with their constant polishing and advanced vests that could withstand shotgun blasts stood in a row in every hallway and room door. At least 4 to each aisle. Anyone who entered the palace, which would already be outsized for the absurd amount of troops stationed in a single building, would be completely swarmed by troops who fanatically defended every floor there as if it were sacred ground.

But that wasn't one of the main reasons for so many troops, but for a percentage of them not being Griffons.

He'd already caught glimpses of these creatures a few hallways back, they were the complete opposite of the Griffon royal guard, but that didn't make them any less capable.

Instead of helmets with metal masks. They used the unique and iconic Stahlhelm ('steel helmet'), in changeling it refers both to a generic steel helmet and more specifically to their distinctive military design. His military clothes dark-green collar and shoulder straps with symbols he couldn't recognize, a gray jacket while wearing a cloth mask that covered his face all but his bug-like eyes along with his transparent wings. But the symbol that they carried in their arms already explained everything, a horn with two other interconnected and bluish wings connected with them. Those were the Changelings.

He hadn't studied much about them, but as their allies, he had a general grasp of their society as a whole. Not so long ago they were a society of divided tribes, each with their loyalty to their local queen and the hive they were born to. Queens were at the top of the society, being those who were born drinking a kind of royal jelly made exclusively for heiresses handpicked by the previous queen.

In other words, they were a matriarchy. With the queen being at the top of the hierarchy, below her heirs, the most influential and powerful drones, and at the bottom the rest.

He wasn't sure if that was true, but that's what the stories and sources told him, even with their dubious origins.

But all that didn't matter at that moment, what mattered was that one of his most powerful queens would now visit the palace. She's coming to visit his son. He loved his son with all his heart. Everything he did made him proud and every moment spent with him was a blessing in itself.

But this time, he really wanted to scream at his idiot of a son for doing something so crazy and unthinkable. WHERE in the THREE DIVINES did he think it would be a good idea to summon one of the most powerful magical beings in the world to his birthday?

But what made him furious the most was HE HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED when they decided to invite her.

While her power was absurd, she had no intentions of doing any harm to the Griffon empire. Conquest is obviously impossible because of the gigantic sea dividing the continent of Equus and Griffonia, and also applied by the fact they don't have a port to access such a sea without making an absurdly long and expensive voyage.

And finally, she seemed very interested in getting to know him, or more specifically, his son.

This shall not stand.

Not while he still breathes.

Chrysalis is an extremely important ally, but she was in not-so-refined words; One of the most malevolent megalomaniacs he'd ever met. If the people thought he was strict with his authority or a great Warmonger, it was because no one had ever met her. All the drones under her hoof were guarded 24/7 in every corner of the city for dissidents and rebels. Her hives had constant patrols and daily searches. He shivered inwardly at the thought of the dystopian country that must be changeling lands. To think of such a tyrannical and heartless being getting close to his son. It would be the end of everything he had slowly and patiently tried to teach him. He couldn't let her corrupt him with her ideology.

Breaking his thoughts, he would come across two big doors, he would hear many voices, laughter and more voices. He let out a frustrated sigh as he removed his crown to run a hand through the fur above his head in a futile attempt to straighten it out.

'Has the party started...? Dammit, I hope I didn't miss too much....' He thought as he put his crown back on and hurriedly entered to the surprise of the guards flanking the door on the other side.

Upon entering, the entire room would fall silent, the gazes of all the nobles would pass to him at the door.

At the beginning of his reign, he would always shrink when he was forced to go out and expose himself like this to so many people in one place. Having been the heir to the empire already made him protected above all else by his father, but being sick and physically weak as he was only increased that tenfold.

But after so many years, he learned to ignore it. Learning to put on the friendly, smiling emperor mask that everyone knew. Not knowing how much he hated each of those nobles eternally, only a few being exceptions.

They were the reason his administration was such a disaster, and their corruption only wiped out any trace of legitimacy that existed in his regime.

Cheers came as glasses were raised and smiles came his way, he reciprocated with a warm smile, and he waved at them as he went downstairs to join the party. 'Not even the most dangerous forests of Griffonia contain so many snakes in one place.' He internally chuckled at his joke as he welcomed the guests and thanked them for coming, even though he wasn't sincere in his words.

But he didn't give a damn about this bunch of useless parasites, no. He wanted to know one thing.

Where was his son?

Scanning the room, he searched but only found guests and more guests, both Griffons, and Changelings. But no sign of his son. Looking at one of the only pink figures in the room, he saw Gabriela with Gerlach as usual. The two were inseparable and he wasn't afraid to say a good couple. But as Emperor he could not allow such a union to take place. Gerlach's Grand Duchy of Feathisia and Gabriela's Strawberry Duchy were two of the Empire's most powerful vassals, a union between these two states would be catastrophic for the sensitive balance of power between all the Empire's vassals and protectorates.

And on top of that, Gerlach didn't have the courage to open up to Gabriela, and the Emperor was sure it wasn't going to be so soon that such a confession would happen.

But back to the point, his son wasn't with her either. Which was a surprise seeing how much they had become extremely close, Gabriela had met his son last year and they were immediately inseparable. Her acting like the motherly figure he never had, helping to close a void Grover never thought possible, he thanked his cousin so much for that.

Returning his search he now turned his attention to the invited clergy, all clustered around the Archons.

But exclusively, Eros. Archon Eros the VII..

He was little Grover's most admired and respected figure, who saw him as a grandfather and advisor. He was responsible for teaching Grover that even at such a young age, he already proved to be a very dedicated child.

But Grover wasn't with him either.

His concern began to increase, ignoring the calls of nobles to him, the Emperor entered the party more. Taking care not to bump into more guests.

'For God's sake please tell me she didn't find him, please don't...' He hurried through the crowds as he tried to get to the birthday boy's royal table. His eyes finally found him, his pupils dilating at the sight.

His son sat comfortably not on his chair or sofa, but on a huge fan of bluish feathers with black dots, he showed off his trademark beaming smile to the person giving him comfort.

His eyes narrowed in hatred as they found the source of his son's 'comfort'. A Griffon with black fur. The tips of her wings, claws and beak were a whitish-green color while with a long bluish hair that almost reached her claws, matching her tail.

Grover had to admit that she was beautiful. Her slender curves and feathers were divine. And it just showed how fake that Griffon was, beauty like that was too perfect to exist. Hiding beneath the magic that gave their race its name, the Changelings. Was a hard shell and hideous face to match her own personality.

That slender and radiant figure caressed the head of the little emperor lovingly while talking to him.

'That massive pile of fake dung has the fucking audacity to touch my son like that? As if she'd known him for a long time and cared about him? She's dead! DEAD!' His beak felt like it was going to split in half with the pressure while smoke seemed to come out of his body with all the stress. Approaching the queen with malicious intent. 'I don't even care that I might cause a diplomatic incident, NO ONE CORRUPTS MY SON!'

His thoughts were cut short as he felt a huge tug preventing him from reaching his destination, looking furiously he would find.... "Gabriela? What are you doing?"

She gave him a bemused look as she released him, crossing her arms. "Don't even try Grover."

"What?" He asked, trying to sound innocent, something that only annoyed her.

"You looked like a minotaur about to start a bar fight, and I know that face. You were going to cause a scene." He just growled in frustration as he glanced back at the disguised Chrysalis and his son, who was now lying on the huge feather fan and hugging it like a pillow, fully enjoying the double caress chrysalis was giving him.

"Look at her.. Who does she think she is? That's MY son, this was supposed to be OUR birthday. To have a family memory and fun! Something to remember in the future! And she's stealing it all for herself and her selfish desires all the while acting like she's some mother figure! I have this—” He continued his angry rant, venting all of his accumulated hatred of the situation on his cousin and cursing the queen of Changelings with all the insults he could find. She just looked at him with a surprised face and mouth agape.

In all her years knowing Grover, he never snapped like this before.

Then an imaginary lightbulb appeared above her head. And her shock turned to mischief, as she just smirked and tilted her head to the side. "Grover Von Greifenstein. Are you jealous?"

The Emperor took 3 seconds to process the question. His face was dominated by a reddish tone and his eyes showed total surprise.

"WHAT???"

He had to be honest with himself, every birthday he had was a moment of total excitement for little Grover. There were so many people he didn't know in one place! All dressed so well and so bright. From what his father always talked to them about, each one was important in some aspect of the empire. Some ruled over lands at the behest of Dad, others helped those he sent, and some were priests who dressed up funny.

At first, he didn't know what they were for, first, he thought they were old people who got together and gave advice to the younger ones since they lived longer. 'But grandpa Eros said they helped others connect to the gods. He doesn't know what gods are, but they must be important!' Whenever priests are walking around many soldiers and nobles bow to them almost like they do the same for daddy.

He asked once if he could invite them to the party to meet them, but grandpa just laughed a lot and said they were always with me. 'Do they see me when I go to poop? Or when I'm taking a shower??' This made him a little paranoid for the next few days, but Eros explained to him better that they were the protectors of ALL griffons and are the ones who watch over our souls.

They must be really cool! But he would ask them to stop watching him, it was scary and creepy!

But the moment he had been waiting for came two hours after the party began, the announcement of the arrival of the changeling delegation. Grover for as long as he could remember being, had loved new species. While his dreams helped him get an idea of how the universe can create strange beings. And he almost screamed when he met Count Ignatius. The poor diamond dog could barely breathe with the child looking at every corner of his body and shrieking questions non-stop for almost a full minute.

It was only with the Emperor's intervention that Ignatius was not forced to be tortured any longer by the child and his absurd curiosity.

Even though he was extremely flattered by all the attention he was getting from a member of the royal house and part of the family that had freed so many diamond dogs from slavery, he had to calm Grover down and change the subject to avoid further embarrassment in front of so many royal houses. It was ironic how many nobles brought their children to play with the little child emperor and hopefully create bonds with him, guaranteeing them the protection of the house and their duchies in the future, but he gave 100% of his attention to adults.

He didn't like to play or talk to kids his age, when asked about his father he simply told him that he didn't find any interest in trying to fit in with people who had nothing to add to his life and make him grow. . Unlike adults, who were smart, experienced and had so much to teach him.

His father was extremely conflicted with this opinion of Grover, but decided not to pressure his son.

But now Grover's attention was 100% on the doors, his mind racing as he imagined what the Queen's exotic appearance would look like? He had already seen her drones that already dominated the palace in preparation for her coming. But everyone said queens were quite different from the regular drone. It excited him so much! Why was she different? Was it because she was a ruler? But if that was why he was so much like his own people if he was of a higher class?

So many questions! And she could give all those answers!

He just missed his father.

His excitement faded as he thought about it, his father... He was getting a lot less with him and his advisors. Eros and Gabriela said that it was temporary and that he would come back better than ever, but their eyes said otherwise. They showed sadness.

But if daddy was going to get better, why did they say that to him so sad?

It was very confusing, but he preferred not to think about it too much. His father still saw him but now he was giving back the love his father had always given him. He needed it from what the sixth saw, Dad was showing a lot more pain and tiredness, he must have been working too hard! He deserves those long rests.

His thoughts were cut short as he heard the entrance gates open, the guard naming the guest of honor's arrival. Which made Grover's smile grow.

"Entering is her majesty lady of the land of the Changelings, mistress of her race, conqueror and sovereign of the hives of Vesalipolis, Dytrisium, Vraks-" And he continued. Grover sweatdropped as he listened to the guard continue naming several more names than he had ever heard in his life.

'Damn, she likes her titles heh...? She has more titles than my father!' He chuckled as he jumped out of his chair.

Passing the mob of adults who had now been formed to see the queen, they would fight their way past two of the guards who always accompanied the heir wherever he went.

He huffed a little annoyed to see those two doing that, yes he liked the company they gave and how much they cared about him. But they were pretty boring! They only spoke when they were adressed and always kept their faces scowling at all times.

At least he would get to her faster, but now he had lost all the fun! He wanted to give a surprise but not even that will happen. With a frown on his face and puffing out his cheeks in annoyance, he got closer and closer to the entrance.

As he searched for it, he felt like he hit something with a grunt of surprise and knocked him to the ground. 'Wow! Watch out mi-" As he raised his eyes he was faced with a figure he only had one word to describe. "Beautiful..."

She giggled with a bluish tinge to her cheeks. The majestic griffon just looked at him with a friendly smile.

"Thank you little one, I did the best I could to look presentable...." She commented as she ran her claws through her hair, throwing it in the air in dramatic action. "After all, a lady must be beautiful to her gentleman, mustn't she?" She finished her sentence by extending her hand to the little one, who readily accepted it.

"YEA!" He gave a happy little jump, much to Chrysalis' amusement. Seeing his own sudden excited outburst he quickly pulled himself together with a huge blush on his face. "I-i mean, yes, as a member of the prestigious royal house of Greifenstein, I wouldn't expect anything more from an equal."

He took her claw with both of his hands to catch her whole, the size difference being comical to Chrysalis. He would give her 'claw' a respectful kiss making the changeling queen in turn blush with embarrassment. "Shall we, my lady?" He would respectfully ask as he directed her to the royal table.

'Doesn't feel like I'm with a three-year-old kid... The reports were true, he has a higher intellect than the regular griffon children.' She thought just nodding her head to the child, who immediately broke his 'gentlemanly' facade and flashed a huge smile on his beak in absolute excitement.

"Great! There's so much I wanted to talk to you about! About your people, culture, and history! Is it true that you are a race of insects? Why are you a griffon then? Is it magic? How does it work???" He shuffled questions at her, leaping around her and using wings to get to her height in full excitement.

'I take that back, he's still just a child.' She thought with a mental laugh and facepalm.