Who Needs Harmony?: An MLP Empire Quest

[Lisain]

And yet another omake for ya, @Questor ! This time for Gwyndlyn and Koryu's letters. Takes place on turns 18-19, cause I assume since garrick and koryu were talking with each other on military campaigns, he just asked her what to say to him in his letters to koryu and she'd just tell him. But now that that's over, she'd begin to try and write to him by herself. Oh, also thatnks @Pittauro for some ideas and looking over it for me.​

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Letters to an Emperor, part 1
or
If Garrick ever finds out what's in these letters he'll have an aneurysm, part 1​

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Dear Mister Core you Koryu,

Papa sed said I can rite write a letter to you! Yay! I can't write good well yet, so Wain is halping helping me. Papa said he wanted to help me write, but he's not alowd allowed to see! These are secret, okay? So don't show them to anybody! Um, sorry about showing this to Wain, but he's the only 1 one who can help right now… I'll tri try to get bettar better at writing, so he won't be able to see ither either! How are you doing Mister Koryu? Cus Because I'm doing okay! There's no more fiting fighting, so every1 everyone's really happy. Papa and mama were in ther their room all day. Wain didn't wanna want to play with me because he never wants to play with me anymore, so I played with Gilda today. We plade played hide and seke seek! Gilda is really good at it, but I still 1 won! Oh, papa said thanks for the Tee Tea, he really likes it. I can't think of anything else to say, so now the letter is dun done!

From,

Gwyndlyn

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Dear Gwyndlyn,

I am doing well. Very well in fact. I was pleasantly surprised to see your letter upon my desk this morning, so the rest of my day seems all the brighter for it.

You seem to write very well for your age already. But, as always, practice makes perfect. My own attempts at griffonese were admittedly horrid, the first few times I tried to write, but after continually writing to both your father and his diplomats, it is as you see before you. I still feel I have quite a ways to go with it, however, since there is always room for improvement.

Secret, hm? I will have to apologize then. Documents that get passed on to me are first inspected for foul play, thus this letter had already been opened before it reached my eyes. Fear not, however, I have already instructed them to mark your letters as special priority, so no longer will you have to worry about them being seen.

We here in Neighpon are happy Sombra is gone for good as well. The lights of the festivals in the wake of our victory lasted a good week and then some. As the Emperor, I could not attend the festivities, but there was a gathering amongst my officials in the palace where we drank to our newfound peace. I noticed, however, that the cherry blossoms will soon bloom here, signifying Spring has arrived in full force. As such, I will be cherry blossom viewing in the Palace Gardens, where I will have time to catch up on all the celebration I missed out on. At the bottom of the page, I have drawn a small illustration of how Spring appears here, as it is hard to describe the beauty of it in words.

I see your parents are getting a well deserved rest. I too, will admit I slept in for a day. That is a secret you and I will have to keep, however, as I kept my chambers closed for that day under the pretense I was busy.

But an Emperor's work is never finished, so I simply had twice the amount of work to do the next day. Looking back, I will say the rest was well worth the later headache.

I would not put too much blame on your brother. He is the crown prince, and thus he has his own responsibilities to attend to. So, while he may want to play with you, time may not permit, or he may simply be too tired after a day preparing for his inevitable future. May I suggest laying out a day in advance for the two of you to play together? I am sure his schedule will allow some time for such a thing to happen.

Gilda, as in your younger sister, correct? I congratulate you on your victory. From what I have heard from your father, she is a bit of a talonful, is she not?

Tell your father he is welcome for the tea. It pleases me greatly to see his continued appreciatiation of a part of our culture. Attached to this letter should be a small box containing a variety of different tea leaves for him, as a continued gesture of friendship. If you would, would you mind giving it to him?

On that note, I have also included a small pouch with a present for you. Inside should be two small, round flat cones of metal with two pieces of twine. In Neighpon, these are called Beigoma, toys for children to play with. To use it, you take the string and place the two knots on the pointy tip, and then wrap it around so it splits the top evenly in two. Then, you take the rest of the string and wrap it around the two knots and around the curved surface of the Beigoma itself. Finally, you throw the Beigoma without letting go of the string, and pull. This should result in the Beigoma spinning quickly.

To play, two people spin their tops into a wide basin, and the one that remains spinning wins.

If these instructions are difficult to understand, I have also written it down on a separate sheet for you to show to someone like your father or brother to help you.

I hope they will provide you with as much entertainment as they do for the children of Neighpon.

Your friend,

Koryu Ryuo

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Dear Mister Koryu,

I spelled your name right this time! Hooray!

Thank you thank you thank you thank you for the present! We have tops here, but their they're wood and don't spin as fast. It was really hard to lern learn how to play with them, but mama showed me how! She's really really really good at it too. When she spins it, it spins foreeeeeever. Oh, and Pearly's really good at it too!

Oh, I didn't tell you, I got a new little sister! She's so cute and I love her and her name is Gleaming Pearl and she's a Cristal Crystal pony and she likes to have her mane brushed and she likes to eat bread and oh my gosh new sister!

She was kinda quiet, but we played with her lots and now she smiles more!

I'm trying my hardest to write better! Archie says to write slower to make less mistayks mistakes. I think it's working! And I'm practising practicing lots. So much practicing. I did so much I ran out of inc ink to use. Archie also taught me more stuff, like words I don't know. He says to put things into diferent different pair a grafs paragraphs. It makes it ezier easier to read!

It's okay! That was the first letter, you couldn't know about that. But now its super duper ultra mega secret, okay?

Mister Koryu, you never said you were an artest artist! It's so pretty! I want to see Cherry blossoms too! I want to visit Mister Koryu's country, but papa said I can't go to Neighpon because he has a lot of work. I drew how it looks here on the back! Go look, go look!

Aw, Mister Koryu can't play? That sounds tereble terrible! It's just like papa huh? Always too busy… Oh, I know! Why don't you take a vacation here! Then we could play together! I can't go over there, but you could come here! Everyone wins! And if you want you could sleep all day here too! We could have a slumber party and sleep together! It'll be so much fun!

Oh, I did what you said with Wain. It worked! It really did! You're really smart Mister Koryu. We played with the tops, and we tide tied. I won a lot first. But then Wain won a lot later because he got better. We didn't play a lot, because he's busy doing stuff, but he played with me and gilda more, so everything is great.

Yeah, Gilda like running! We rays race a lot, but she always wins. She's so fast! I need to run faster so I can be a strong dragon and protect mama and papa and wain and pearly and Gilda and everyone from evil people. Rawr!

Papa said thank you! He gave me a bottle to send back. I think it's alkohal alcohol. Mama gave me some once because I wanted to know. It tasted really bad. Why do people drink this stuff? Mama said a lot of stuff about why, but it just makes people do dumb things. I'm never gonna drink it. Never ever.

I sent you something too! It's a suprize surprise, so don't open it where people can see.

This took a loooong time for me to write. I wrote a lot, Mister Koryu! I double and triple and fourple quadruple checked everything! Papa says since it takes a long time for you to get my letter, I should write as much as I can.

Don't take too long to reach Mister Koryu, letter!

From your best dragon friend,

Gwyndlyn

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Dear Gwyndlyn,

I see you worked hard on your writing, and it shows. I am proud of you, as I am sure the rest of your family is.

It seems it was the correct decision to send you some Beigoma. I do not mean to sound arrogant, but I, myself, am rather decent with Beigoma. Perhaps one day, if you wish, we will do battle with each other. I am sure, with your burgeoning prowess at the game, the tales of our tops clashing will be legendary. Until then, however, your first obstacle will be the rest of your family. As a one dragon to another, I am sure you will not let those defeats remain as such, will you?

I had heard your parents had adopted a Crystal Pony through my diplomats. She sounds wonderful. It pleases me greatly to know you and your nation have such large hearts. As you may know, my own nation is not quite so close knit, but hearing the stories of what is happening overseas is having an impact on the young here. Just yesterday I heard one of my officials talking about seeing a young Oni carrying around a Tanuki and a Qilin in some game of theirs. To see my nation changing its ways, however slowly, warms my heart.

I would not call myself an artist. I am more akin to a dabbler of all sorts. As a dragon, I find my lifespan to be both a boon and a detriment, so I try to keep myself occupied by learning new things. Painting just so happens to be one of those things I have decided to learn in my life. On that subject, if you may allow me to impart some advice onto you: Learn for the sake of learning, young one. By allowing the unknown to become known, one attains understanding, and from understanding, harmony. Thus, if you have a question, do not let it linger. Ask it, question what you know, seek answers, and you will be the better for it.

On your desire to visit Neighpon, I hope that one day you will be able to visit my country as well. I would recommend coming in spring, as that is, in my opinion, the time when the country is most beautiful.

Now, as for your drawing, I must say, as much as I wish I could do so, I can not shoot beams of fire from my eyes. Nor can I currently grow to massive proportions. While both would certainly be useful in dealing with our enemies, it is sadly something that will have to remain in the realm of artistic interpretation. However, I am not against allowing you to ride atop my head, as small as you are now, should you wish it. As for the drawing itself, I do not believe the smile currently on my face will be removed for the rest of the day. Thus, I thank you for allowing me this joyful peace for the day, young one.

Yes, being an Emperor is something that does not allow one much free time, as much as it pains me to say. However, it is also fulfilling. To see your decisions allow your people to grow, to prosper, to see the smiles on their faces... It makes the weariness, the long nights, and the ever present grumblings of my court all worth it. I am sure your father thinks much the same.

As for taking a vacation… Well, that is difficult. My authority allows for it, but I am worried that taking a prolonged leave of absence would cause certain issues to arise. The first time we met was a special exception, as contact with another nation requires one's full attention. I will not say no, however. Perhaps there will be a time in the future where such a thing could happen?

On the topic of a slumber party, I am afraid your father may have objections to that. From what your diplomats have informed me of and my own understanding, it is a party where a young griffon invites their friends over, plays games, and spends the night there, yes? If this is the case, then there are several issues that arise. Issues that you are currently too young to properly comprehend. However, I will try to explain it as well as I can.

A man and a woman sleeping together within the same room has certain connotations. By this, I mean that both have to be married to allow it, just as with your parents. Now, I am certain you and your brother have slept in the same room before, but there are exceptions made for siblings, parents, and for being under a certain age. Thus, this only applies for those that are not siblings, and with both parties being of marriageable age. Therefore, it would not be appropriate for me to sleep in the same room as you. I do not like disappointing you like this, but I hope my explanation was enough for you to understand the reasons why it cannot be so.

Hearing your brother is playing with you more brings me relief, and seeing that Gilda is as rambunctious as your father makes her out to be causes me to chuckle. While I do not have siblings, I can understand not wanting to drift apart from those you are close to. Always remember to cherish the times you spend with each other, for there will be a time where you may not see each other as much as you do now. When that time comes, you can always think back to these fond memories and smile.

Please tell your father thank you for the return gift. I will not drink it right away, but should a special occasion rise, I will take part most readily.

As for why people drink alcohol… Well, I am sure your mother has already told you. But to simplify, it allows one to do what they normally wouldn't, and it allows one to forget, if only for a short while. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. Taken in moderation, it allows one to forget their troubles and move on to doing what they wish to do, or allow one to go forth without fear. But taken in large amounts, one will instead find themselves drowning within their own sorrows, or doing 'dumb things,' as you say. As for the taste, it's an acquired one. I also thought it tasted terrible, once upon a time. Enough of it, however, and you become used to it and begin to enjoy it.

That is not to say I endorse partaking in alcohol. If you wish to never drink it, then I would say you would be a better Dragon than I, in that regard. But, if you decide you would like to try some when you are of age, I will think no less of you.

Now, onto your gift. From the wear and tear of the pages, I assume The Dragon Prince is one of your favorite stories, and I can see why. I will always appreciate a good book, and the one you sent me I enjoyed immensely. It is a simple tale, but simple tales tell a lot about what a nation values. A Griffon gains the power to turn into a Dragon to save his people, only for it to be stolen away by his mortal enemy… But then beats him through the power of his people and his love, and regains his powers after. To me, this tells of a place where hard work and coordination are valued just as highly as talent and skill, and even when one can no longer use those talents, one can still find a place where he can belong. Truly an amazing moral to teach for such a short story.

On the subject of gifts, I have another one for you. This one is not a toy, like the last one, but instead some seeds. Do you recall the illustration of the sakura grove within the palace I sent you? These seeds grow into those trees.

Now, for some instructions. Plant these seeds somewhere where there is plenty of sun and where the weather is warm. Too cold, and the resulting tree will refuse to bloom. Preferably, somewhere where the ground is raised and without high winds. Also, the soil itself must be deep, to allow the roots of the tree to spread. Once you have found a location, dig a small hole to plant your seeds in. You will want to space where you plant them a fair bit away, at least the distance of four adult griffons apart. After that, simply fertilize the ground every spring and water the trees only when there is a drought. They should start sprouting within the year, and will grow fully in 20 years. If there is anything else you wish to know about them, please send a letter to me, or consult your groundskeeper. He should be able to help you with this task.

On the time it takes for letters to arrive, yes, it certainly is a hassle, is it not? Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done about it. I am not sure if your father has informed you, but currently, there has been news of ships, both his and mine, drifting about without a crew or cargo. As these letters are very dear to me, they are being sent on a ship with a security detail and on a charted safe passage to prevent these letters from disappearing. As a result, however, the time it takes for goods to come and go has increased dramatically.

I recall a certain someone eavesdropping on our conversation back when your father and I first sat down for talks, and as you know, there are certain records that detail dragon fire being used to transport items. Even now, however, I cannot find much more in reference to that, so I will have to disappoint you once more within this letter. But let it be known that I am still looking, and should something be found, I will let you be the first to know,

Your Friend,

Koryu Ryuo

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Dear Mister Koryu,

A sea monster! It has to be a sea monster! Out to read and eat my letters! If only I were a bigger dragon, then I could go out and slay it like all the stories. Rawr rawr, fire! Thank you for beeng being the best dragon friend ever and making sure I got this letter! I would be really sad if I didn't get it, but now I have it, so I'm really happy! I hope you find the dragon fire thing too, so we can talk without having to wait forever.

Look, my writing got better again! Archie said it's more uniform, which means all the letters are the same size now.

I beat mama at the top game! It was only once, but I beat her! She looked so surprised. I lost every game after, but I won once! 'Wain didn't practice, so he lost against me. His face looked really funny when he kept losing. Sometimes I see him practice while he's reading now. But I'm going to practice too! I'm going to beat everyone and Mister Koryu, and then I'll be best dragon!

Me, pearly, and Gilda went to the sea last week with mama. We had a lot of fun! We taught pearly how to swim. She's not very good yet, but she likes swimming. Gilda was the fastest again, but she's always the fastest. Mama called her a toona tuna fish and raced her. Mama won by a lot, but Gilda said she's going to beat mama one day. I drew a picture of it on the back, so you can see!

I'm going to paint then! It's really fun making pictures, and I know I'm not that good yet, but I'm going to make lots of really good ones later. I'll make a picture of mama and papa, and wain, pearly, and Gilda, and you too Mister Koryu! And the mowntens mountains and the sea and the clouds and the trees and everything else I can think of! And when I come to neighpon, I'll paint everything there too!

Oh, I told archie I wanted to learn everything, but then he looked at me and laughed. He told me that the only thing he knows for sure is that he knows nothing. I don't get it. How can he be so smart if he doesn't know anything?

No beam eyes? But beam eyes are so cool! Just look and fwoosh! All gone. Can't you magic something to do that?

I asked papa if he liked being emperor. It was so weird, mister Koryu, cause he said the same thing! I didn't talk to him for a week because I thought he read my letter, but he said he didn't. I'm watching you papa, don't read my letters!

No vacations sounds really bad. Oh, I know! Papa said he was going to let Wain do stuff so he could have more time to play with us when he got older! And Wain was a kid, and kids come when you get married and hold hands for a long time like what papa said, and you said a man and a woman couldn't sleep together unless they were married, so when I grow up, let's get married Mister Koryu! Then we can have slumber parties all day and have a kid so he can grow up and help you with work and give you more free time!

Yeah, it's perfect! I'm going to marry Mister Koryu when I grow up! And then we can be family too!

Okay? I don't understand, but I'll always love my family. Always always always. And I'll always remember you too, Mister Koryu, because you're my best dragon friend. And I'll double remember you when we get married! That's twice the remembering!

I'm never ever ever going to drink that stuff. Never ever ever. Nope. Never. Nu uh. It tastes bad and makes me feel like I swollod swallowed my own fire. Everyone else is just weird for drinking it. Oh, I told papa you said thank you. He told me to write back "it was more than worth it for the tea."

The Dragon Prince is my favorite ever book! I memoreyezed memorized all of it! I read it when I'm bord bored or sad, so you can do it when you feel like that too!

Everyone went today to go plant the seeds! Papa said the ground in front of the castle works, so we planted them there. But we also went and planted some everywhere! He said "I don't know if they'll bloom because it gets so cold up north, but we might as well try," so we planted a seed in Griffonstone and Wingbard and Aukland and everywheeeeeere until we ran out of seeds. Grow big, seeds! Grow grow grow!

Don't get eaten by sea monsters, letter!

From your bestest Dragon friend and future bride,

Gwyndlyn

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And there's part 1. Would have added some images, but couldn't find anything suitable for Gwyndlyn's scribbles. Here's one of the images I might have gone for for what Koryu drew.

Spoiler: image

Oh, also, there's a bit that references another, unfinished omake in here that's just been sitting around on my computer... eeeeh....

 

[Gaius Tyrannus]

AN: well, hell. I blame @Lisain for this. You and and your Disgusting, Beautiful story, curse you.
Ahem.
Anyway, I guess this takes place between turn 20 and the end of turn 21, after the dispute with Maretonia, and the Beginning of the Warning of Libertalia.

Progress
​

"... you get that, Oswald? Oswald!!"

Oswald Shadowblade jolted, removing his claw from chest, where he had clutching at the little piece of silver hung there. Discord's Beard, he had been muttering again, and in front of the alderman as well!!

"U-um, sorry, what was that, sir?", he stuttered, flushing under his fur, and fluttering his black wings in embarrassment. In front of the massive group, utop the massive wooden platform, the head Gryphon, Lucian Ironclaw, rolled his one remaining eye, the other missing beneath the black eyepatch. 'A gift,' as he liked to say whenever someone question him about it ' given to me by one of Sombras monstrosities.' He would them grin, and point to the massive tooth lying in the middle of the work camp, rotten bIack veins hanging from the end. 'I took something from that basterd in return as a thank you.' He then sent the offending party to latrine duty in in the Diamond Dog part of the camp, usually with Oswald.

"Are you done daydreaming, Shadowblade, or do you need a few more minutes?", the alderman mocked, looking as Oswald with a mock look of sincerity. " Perhaps you would like to tell us what's so important that you aren't listening to your work assignments? I'm sure the class would love to hear about it."

Deep barking chuckles and squawks of laughter echoed around him, and he shrunk even further, wanting sink into the ground and never comes it. Damn it all, he thought he was done with being ribbed. He'd already been here for two months, why couldn't they pick on some other newbie? "N-no sir," he stuttered, barely meeting the Aldermans scornful faze, " my apologies sir. Won't happen again." Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Gwenmina and her gang chucking to his right, snorting and whispering under their breath. "Poor Wittleblade, slayer of the Shadows.", chattered Gwenmina to Crusher, a big, hulking brute of Diamond dog, who chuckled stupidly to himself. Oswald felt like he would die of shame, remembering how he had gotten that name. He shook himself as the alderman called for silence again.

" As I was saying," spoke the Alderman, once the crew has quieted down again, " Hilda, Oberaon, Crusher, and Glitter, your laying rail farther down the line. Speak to the foreman at your location for further instructions. Oswald, your on hauling duty." Oswald groaned, already feeling the strain and soreness in his wings that he would feel for the next few weeks. He hoped he wouldn't be under Gold-tongue today, the Diamond Dog seemed to have a vendetta against him, ever since he had accidentally dropped a bar of steel on top of his lapis lazuli a month back. " Everyone else, your at your usual positions. Everyone grab your gear and get to your posts, we have only 1 more months to complete this line before they start laying the tracks. Alright, Dismissed!!" Bellowed Ironclaw, before he took off into the sky, flying in the direction of the Royal Command Tent.

Everyone else left at their own pace, finding their groups and and leaving for their positions. Oswald felt a shove as Gwendina moved past, her gang following suit. " See you later, Wittleblade," mocked Gwendina, taking to the air, as Crusher nearly shoved Oswald to the ground from his shear bulk alone," try not to almost crush The Emperor this time!" The rest of the gang laughed and followed after her, calling him varying versions of wittleblade and shadow slayer.

Oswald sighed, picking himself off of the ground and dusted off his wings, grumbling to himself all the while. It wasn't fair. One time, one time he thought that an Ogre was attacking, and people still called him Wittleblade. A horn sounded in the distance, signaling the start of the workday. Oswald sighed again, and headed over to the hauling station, resigning himself to weeks of sour wings.

Later, as the noontime sun bore down on the valley, Oswald sat atop one of the small hills near the river, looking down at the work camp and the days progress. He sighed, stretching out his wings in the sunlight, feeling the tendons and bones crack and stretch as he shook the tiredness out of wings and claws.
Then, as if by instinct, he reached down to the small Idol around his neck, and found himself muttering again.

He remembered when he had gotten the idol. It was the week before he left his family's home in the Imperial City, looking for adventure and wealth. His father had given it to him for his Name Day, a small gold idol that he had paid for from his last big commission, 2 months prior. He remembered how his father had smiled with pride, and how his mother had cried tears of joy, as he had removed the gold idol from its wrapping. He remembered how the shine has taken his breath away, how the way the light played off of the idols face had mesmerized him. He also remembered his fathers words as he had given him the gift. " Remember Oswald, to always walk in His light. He will guide your way, as long you stay on the path of Righteousness and Justice. Remember always, that He protects."

He remembered when the news of the Maretonia Hostage situation had reached the Capital, of how Citizens of Griffonia had been captured and enslaved by pirates, and sold like chattel to the Despots of Maretonia. Of how the Emperor, The Slayer of Sombra, had been approached by the Queen of Maretonia, and asked to buy back His people, His subjects.

And how he refused.

He remembered the shock and gasps of disbelief of the crowd around the Cryer as he read out the news. The few Gryphons and Crystal ponies who had grumbled and cursed the Emperor for abandoning his subjects, and how more had supported His decision, to not bargain with Slavers. Most of all, though, he remembered his fathers reaction at the news and the expression upon his face.

Faith, and Pride.

The Noontime Horn shook him out of his musings, signaling the end of the noontime meal and the start of another shift. Shaking his head, he looked down again, seeing the progress and advancement right before his own eyes, at His Will. A Railway, to unite the Realm like never before, and he was apart of it, helping it, building it.

A new Future.

'Gwendina and the rest can mock all they want,'Oswald thought, as he gazed down at the workers moving back to position. His gaze fell to the patch of white fur on his side, a vague shape of a blade visible in its pattern, which had earned him his name at birth. 'We do His work.'

" The Emperor Protects." Said Oswald, holding the Gold Idol of the Emperor, and then he took to the sky to do his duty.

AN: Jesus, 6 hours and typed on a phone. Ow. Hope it was worth it Lol.

 

[Sentient Tree]

Imposter Syndrome​

Fake...
Swift Mind walked the hallways of the Griffonstone Academy, head held high, bright smile on his face.
He knew he was a fake. Oh sure, most of the other grad students had doubts about their own competence, but he actually was.

Worthless...
Swift Mind walked into a classroom, nodding to the few of his fellow students who had also arrived early.
Sure he had graduated with top honors at Crystal University, but he had skated by, using his friendships with everyone to find the best tutors and copy notes on the days he was absent. Heck, Bleeding Heart had practically taught him the third chapter of Applied Thaumatology that week he had been bedridden with fever.

Imposter...
Swift Mind sat down in his seat beside Greytalon, who was pouring over data for mana to heat conversion ratios. Greytalon asked him a question about what equation he would use, and after a little thought Swift Mind suggested a slight alteration to the one Greytalon was laboring over. Greytalon's eyes lit up, and he started scribbling furiously.
He knew that Greytalon would have figured out such an obvious change soon enough. This gesture only created gratitude from Greytalon, he knew Greytalon and everyone else would be fine without him. He lived in fear of the day when someone found out. Realized that he wasn't some brilliant crystal pony, that he had effectively been lying to them the entire time. To prevent that day from coming, he studied until he fell unconscious each night, driven to work ever harder through fear of the condemnation that would come if people found out who he really was, an imposter who played off of their sympathy and friendship to keep them from questioning how he was so seemingly perfect.

Scum...
Swift Mind took out his writing supplies as the rest of the class trickled in along with Professor Genevieve. He loaned a quill to Jade when he saw that she had forgotten hers.
How could he live with himself? He hadn't suffered like everyone else from Crystal University, he was benefiting from the misguided sympathies of everyone in Griffonstone Academy. Even worse, he didn't stop it. He couldn't bring himself to tell them to save their sympathy for ponies more deserving than him. That would bring questions.

Pathetic...
Swift Mind took notes as Professor Genevieve began the lecture, sipping on his classmates' feelings of gratitude and admiration as he wrote.
He could never tell them the truth...



@Questor
Decided to try my hand at the omake game. From what I've read, imposter syndrome affects many graduate students, making them feel as if they are less qualified than their peers. The changelings gave me the question, what if someone with imposter syndrome actually was an imposter (just of a different sort)?

Edit:
Yes, 'Swift Mind' is in fact very talented and intelligent. In case it needs clarification, italics are Swift Mind's thoughts. Also, this takes place some time in the future, after Crystal University is completed.

 

[triumph8w]

An uneasy future. @Questor

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All is well in Equestria

Its lands are peaceful and joyous, its people happy and content. Princess Luna has been returned to them from her banishment, cured by the elements of harmony. The bearers of said element have become national heroes and their deeds grow by the day, notable among these was the defeat of the spirit of chaos Discord and their immense help in fighting off the changeling invasion of Canterlot.

Equestrias technologies are many and varied from the weather factories to newly unveiled automobiles. Add onto this the recent thawing in relations with the Gryphus Empire, growing trade with Zebrica and Neghipon as well as a greater inclusiveness to other begins. It seems that Equestria has a bright future ahead of it.

All is not well in Gryphus.

Emperor Gravid, a descendant of the Legendary unifier Garrick Golden-feather, rules with an iron claw and is mockingly refereed to as the 'unworthy' behind his back. The great dragon Gwyndlyn sleeps, as she has since Gravids mother died, and is unable to give the Empire her legendary wisdom in these troubled times.

Pamphlets are passed to claw, paw and hoof proclaiming a better path. Where all are equal with no royalty, nobility or bourgeoisie, only fellow beings. Working together as comrades for a better future.

Emperor Gravid seeks to emulate his Legendary ancestors and in the process has brought the Empire to brink of ruin, and perhaps even worse, war. His attempts to build many grand projects, in the process raising the taxes to dangerous levels, his arrogance and general inability to fulfill the requirements needed to run a realm such as Gryphus. And a growing instability as his attempts fail and he is faced with a population that grows restless.

His attempts to go even farther than mere projects and to annex the Crystal Kingdom has alienated one Gryphus's steadfast allies, the Kingdom of Neighpon and has unnerved parts of Yakistan. While his standoffish attitude to Maretonia has increased tensions at the border and the royal navy patrol unnervingly close to Maretonias coast.

One of the only good things he seems to have done is his increasingly friendly attitude to Equestria in the process beginning a thawing of the cold relations between Equestria and Gryphus that has lasted since the Nightmare war and Princess Lunas banishment.

War seems inevitable and revolution brews in the Empire

The future in uneasy.

--------------

Felt somewhat inspired, so i decide to write something where the Garricks descendants have proved incapable of their role as leaders of the Empire.

 

[Plausbius]

Faith in the Emperor
<~--[]--[]--[]--~>​

I walked into the town square yesterday. Why wouldn't I? The Sun

...for which we thank The Great Garrick for...

Click to shrink...

is shining ever so brightly, cobblestones

...laid out by the virtuous workers of The Great Garrick...

Click to shrink...

felt great beneath my talons and paws

...which exist only due to the countless sacrifices by those under the command of The Great Garrick...

Click to shrink...

, and all the shops

Under the watchful protection of The Great Garrick...

Click to shrink...

are bustling with all kinds of activity. Now, I'll preface as I am a griffon of my word: I'm not religious.
Never have been, probably never will. With the kinds of places of worship in this place-- from the ancient and mystical temples of old Gryphus, to sparkling underground caverns dedicated to Diamond Dog entities, to the grand carved stones marking the presence of the Yak gods, to the shrines which are said by my Neighponese friends to house thousands of spirits, and even the small heart-shaped amulets sometimes seen worn by Crystal Ponies-- you could say that Griffonstone has seen a great revival in faith.
You could also say that it would be difficult to not be part of a religious organization, with how statistically likely one of them would adhere to traditions or fit your world view.
You could also say that I didn't see the light in any of that.

I was in a dark place before... the Winter War had taken my older brother.
I could never forget waking up to my mother screaming, sobbing, scratching hopelessly at the door as she saw Gallin's goodbye message nailed to the front entrance. My father, when I asked "Papa, why is mommy crying?"... only gave a curt "He's gone to the Front."
I couldn't understand, but I did, even if I hadn't realized at the time. The very notion of war was still fresh in peoples' minds. The Unification War was talked about by proud patriots as well as common citizens. That had been a war of honor, a war against tyranny, a war to unite Griffonkind!

But this.

What was this?

Honor had died with the countless lives trampled in the snow.
Tyranny did not merely exist, but threatened to end our existence.
Unity was all that we had to hold onto.

Thankfully, it had been enough.

I couldn't understand why brother had gone there.
Why would he have gone to fight?
I could understand why he had gone there.
He fought so others could live.

--One more block to go, and we'll be there--

So yeah, I suppose that makes me a bit guilty about how everything went down, who knew?
Well, after Sombra's final defeat, people started to realize how we were under the guidance of a griffon who had turned the entire continent around. Some said this wasn't a mere Emperor, but a messenger or a herald of old Gryphus. Some surmised that Garrick

...long may He Shine...

Click to shrink...

was no mere griffon, but a god.

A god! You should've seen the looks in peoples' eyes when they heard these murmurs.
Eyes, wide open! Whether it was in surprise or rapturous revelation, I couldn't tell you. I can tell you that I had found solace in those murmurs when my family had been more broken apart than it had before the war-- but that's another story.

Point is, I saw-- no, wanted-- nay, needed something to believe in! Something that told me "everything is alright".

That's when I found the Church of The Great Garrick.

Hey, don't give me that look. I don't insult your beliefs, you don't insult mine. Now you want me to continue?

Okay, so when I found new hope, I was stil-- what's going on over there?
...
Oh, no. My talons are shaking wildly, my breath erratic. Everything's getting dark-- oh, I'm back.
...
how much time had passed? Why are the streets a mess? This... this graffiti... /The Great Garrick is not as Great as people claim!/ but... who would desecrate the church walls?
There... blood? Signs of a scuffle... oh, Garrick, my talons are bleeding! No... What had happened h--
I'm whipped around by the paw of a priest, also covered in blood.

"What is going on, child? Please, I saw you and the others tearing apart greenery, toppling statues, and fighting each other! These are all against the tenants of the Church... but I had a vague recollection of myself being in such a physical altercation... Child, please tell me you had nothing to do with this!" Father Douglas had tears running down his crimson fur.
"Father, I assure you, I had no idea what had happened..." I began, but a vision tore into my mind.

Suddenly, the scene was all clear:
I was there, clawing at a shrub, ripping its roots out and toppling it over, showing nary a thought to the laborers who planted, grew, trimmed, and maintained the plant.
I was there, breaking down a statue of war hero Hardbeak, one of the Saints who fought alongside The Great Garrick. A thousand hours of prostrating before The Great Garrick himself would not begin to forgive such a transgression!
I was there... fighting Father Douglas? He had sprung out of the ground to tackle me, presumably to stop me from further vandalism and heresy. I had made a nasty cut along his face, while his claws met mine and I howled in pain before waking into the present--

"I am so sorry, Father. I had no idea..." Gasping for air, I came back to the waking world.
Shaking his head, "no, my child... it was clear that we were under the influence of a dangerous foe, to behave so differently from our normal selves." Father Douglas took out a Golden Garrickbit and put it to my forehead. "The Great Garrick watch over you. The Great Garrick protect you. The Great Garrick save you."
And a burst of light poured forth from the coin, enveloping me in shimmering light which I later realized was just sunlight reflecting off the shiny surface.
Still, the light reminded me of one thing: The Light has not left me. It never will. I saw the light here.

Of course. Peoples' faith in Garrick had wavered. It was from matters beyond his control. What? Who is talking? Perhaps we should have taken precautions to at least keep public opinion up? Y'know, for our ENSLAVED POPULACE??? Wait, we hadn't saved them? Who are you? What's important is long term. I hardly think there would be any real loss from losing a bit of "public opinion", honestly we could afford to lose some! Hey, the people are important! They give The Great Garrick His powers, through our belief in him! Fine, fine, I'll vote for that plan, but we'd better...

"WHO ARE YOU TO SPEAK ILL OF THE PEOPLE OF THE GREAT GARRICK?!" I found myself spitting into the face of Father Douglas, other passersby looking dazed but staring at me.
"It was a joke to them... the beings..." the words barely left my mouth.
Father Douglas began to speak, but seeing me curl up with my forelegs around my hind legs made him second guess me and himself. "I'll come back to check on you. Please keep strong. I understand you."

Seeing him retreat into the desecrated church made me return to my thoughts.
Who were these... voices? They spoke... a different language, but I could understand them? I think I saw... their devices... screens of obsidian and boxes of metal...
No, these voices would not break my faith. No, never again will I lose my belief again. The Great Garrick is real, he is already a legend. He is in the palace, in the streets, on His earth and in His skies. He walks and flies among us, showing he exists. That is enough proof of what he represents to everyone, and more than enough reason for me to never stray again.

Standing back on all fours, I looked out at the town square suspiciously on fire.
I walked into the town square yesterday. Why wouldn't I?
---------
Since @Questor didn't expand on exactly why people are starting to doubt The Great Garrick's rule (that I know of. My reading comprehension is bottom notch), I made my own reason. Load it onto a carrack because this is cannon now.

Behold. My Magnum Oppai. My Mooner Lisa. My HamLettuce. My Hot Tub Time Machine. My Store Warts. My Declaration of Lintipendence. My Puntastic Reference.
Every stroke of my stroke a stroke of stroke.
Genius doesn't grow on trees and you can't fake money.
Free will is a myth and religion is a joke.
Etc etc. Feel free to critique because I think I'll stick to silly jokes and not paragraphs of characters and settings.

 

[triumph8w]

An uneasy future part 2 @Questor
-----------

The future is uneasy.

But that does not mean all is lost. The crown princess Gwynavire, heir to the throne, fights against her fathers growing tyranny wherever she can, for she has not forgotten that royalty is meant to serve the people, not oppress them. Behind her stands the Knightly orders of the Empire, most notably the Knights Lion. The single most prestigious military order in the Empire, and perhaps even the world.

While her father grows more unstable and bleeds the realm of coin the people unconvinced of the so called 'true harmony' that the communists bring. Or those who still hold loyalty to the throne and House Golden-feather. Look to Gwynavire for guidance, who in turn seeks a way to make her father understand that what he is doing cannot continue.

She sees her chance in the recently announce Equestrian tour of the Empire. In which the Bearers of the elements, accompanied by their highness's Princess Cadence and Prince Shining armor. Gwyanavire seeks their help in showing her father that he does not need to Emulate their ancient ancestors, that he does not need to be anyone but himself.

The alternative, should he not see is unthinkable.

And so Gwynavire will applies the determination that her family is so famous for. Not to defeat some foreign king, not to win some grand war. But to make her father understand. Or at least convince him to abdicate the Throne, and live out the rest of his days worry free. Anything to avoid civil war.

The tour is set, and the various players in and out of the Empire make their moves.

The future is uneasy in the Gryphus Empire.

But it would seem it still has heroes left to save it.

-------------
Aaaaaannnnnddd got inspired to write another short omake. It would seem some Golden-feathers still live up to their ancestors legends.

 

[Gaius Tyrannus]

AN2: This is my life. Why do I do this to myself. Why?
AN: I blame @Lisain and all you people for this. Curse you. Curse you all. This had nothing to do with the fact that I just read a bunch of history books. Nope not at all.... stop judging me.

A Change in Perspective

Excerpt from ' The Travels of Aquila Longstrider, Scholar and Reluctant Adventurer, Part 1'
Chapter 11
​

" Having covered the courtship rituals of the Cyclops and Diamond Dogs, I feel a change of perspective is in order. The readers of this book will have noticed throughout it a distinct lack of the mention of the beliefs and religions held by the nations and peoples that happen described in these books.This is not out of a sense of prejudice or non interest, but rather one of pragmatism.

I myself am not an overly religious Griffon, and throughout my travels I have seen of many things and experienced many religions and beliefs. I also endeavor to separate my own personal beliefs away from my travels and the subject of this writing. There are as many religions and beliefs in this world as there are stars in the sky, and each can be as varied and different as a griffon is to a pony. As such I believe that such matters are best written about in a practical, unbiased light.

Following the Chaos of Discord and the Reign of King Sombra, society had utterly and completely shattered. Many peoples and nations were irreconcilabley broken, and with them their cultures and beliefs. While some may have held on to some aspect or held together entirely , like the Yaks of Yakistan, or Neighpone, others were shattered and sought to find any sort of ideological concept to cling to, like the Court of Discord, who is less of a religion, and more of a cult of misery, chaos, and chocolate pudding clouds. Others held no beliefs, like that den of depravity and villainy Libertalia, whose very existence could only be allowed with the absence of order or decency, or Maretonia, whose strange gods permit slavery and other such horrid things

Though as tempting as it may be to dive into the cesspool that is those wretched hives of cruelty and Peanut Walruses, it is best that we focus on other pursuits. Indeed, it would better for us to focus on the concept of religion and belief in the Empire of Griffonia, Yakistan, Neighpon, Equestria, Maretonia, and Albion. In this chapter, we will discuss the Empire of Griffonia and how we griffons view such matters.

The Empire of Griffona
​

For those who view us griffons as impious and haughty, one can only visit the many villages and cities of the Empire to see that such accusations are baseless. Indeed, the beliefs of Griffonia are so varied and disparate in how they are worshiped, that one may get lost in the minute details, such as is the case with many nations and cultures. The most basic form of religion or belief, is that of the veneration of those who have came before, the worship of ones ancestors.

Such beliefs can vary in sheer concepts from viewing everyday as a chance to improve and expand upon to what came before, to outright worship and construction of family vaults and shrines dedicated to one ancestors. Such beliefs are so ingrained into the Griffon culture, that such is but second nature re to many. As such, from the outside view, one may view Griffonia as impious and haughty, it is merely that they hold themselves and others to such a high standard compared to those who came before.

Such worship are not the only religion that the empire has. Indeed, from the Diamond Dogs seemingly bestial beliefs, to the Crystal Ponies and their worship of Love and Peace, and the myriad other small beliefs throughout the Empire.

One of the most recent belief and religion s formed, however, is the ideology and veneration of the Royal family, and more specifically, the Emperor Garrick, though his wife and children are just as love and worshiped. Considering the deeds and adulation that the family has received, it can hardly be surprising that they have such a cult of personality about them.

However, with the establishment of the Crystal empire and Emperor Garrick's popularity increase, such adulation in some cases has turned to outright worship and prayer. These can range from simple portraits to shrines and idols of the family. Such displays have been toned down since the Crisis with Maretonia, but still exists throughout the Empire.

Now, we have stayed too long into Griffonia, it is time for us to put away our shrines and family tombs, and look instead to the strange land of the Yaks. Join me, dear reader, as we take a look, in the mysterious land and beliefs of Yakistan."

AN: Freedom. Finally. Ow. @Questor sempai, I give this travesty to you. May you enjoy. The Questor Protects.

 

[Plausbius]

@Questor
Did anyone ask for this?
No?
Me neither.

Epic Rap Battles of Griffonia!​

Garrick Golden-Feathers!

VERSUS?!​

Konrad HardbeeeeaaaakBEGIN!

Hardbeak:
Good evening,
My Liege.
I am grateful for this battle
Which you permit.
So I beg your pardon,
For the murder I will commit!
*shhink!*

En garde!
Too slow!
Beheader of Brochard
Versus a Chick with Golden-Feather Holes!
Konrad with a K!
Kingslayer, no match!
Took down the Dark Lord--
Twice!
While you waited for the last scratch!

Your wife's much stronger than you,
At least you've got a good eye!
One eye is all I need to defeat you;
Blind bats can see that you're going to die!
*crack!*​

Garrick:
Oh! I am slain!
No wait.

Was that the sound of your back?
I could have sworn I told you to retire, you old hack! *hack!*
Grandmaster of the Knights Lion, yes?
Your verse was a bit faster, but nice lyin'!
You failed to impress!

The Emperor protects!
Uniter of the Empire!
So you seek a pardon? *swish!* There!
You're knighted, you're inspired!
But I've got to keep you, old bird, in your stable,
To let you go out with a bang *BANG!*
...
As a fable.

Oldbeak:
Telltale sign of a dying dynasty:
A cult, coming up ahead!
Rising from the ashes of Discord's defeat!
An assault by the dead!
Where will that leave you,
Once I fall like leaves do?
Praise is not your strong suit, Good Lord!
'Old man'???
You'll be praying for me when you hear
"this chord" again! *struuuum!*​

Emperor Birb:
...Well...you've said your piece,
And I've said mine.
Hope we can talk this over some games and wine.
No hard feelings, our enemies retreat!
Together, we are stronger!​

Together:
CAN'T BE BEAT!​

-------
Credits to ERB and y'all beautiful people for inspiration!

Edit: almost forgot the MOST IMPORTANT PART:
​

WHO WON?
WHO'S NEXT?

YOU DECIDE!

EPIC!
RAPBATTLESOFGRIFFONIAAAA!​

 

[Gaius Tyrannus]

AN: A change in point of view I think is in order.

When the Sky Fell
​

Silent-Moon-Swift-Runner-Brightstone-Hunter, or Gemhunter as he was known to the Tall-Winged-Bird-Lions, put down his sack of Bright-Stone at the haul point at the sound of the meal-horn, and wiped his massive paw atop his brow, removing the stone-dust from his fur there and looked around himself. His large, muscular bulk seemed out of place among the shine-stone ponies and winged-lions, though they didn't seem to mine. They flowed around him like a boulder in a river, noticeable yes, sometimes disruptive, but not impossible to find a way through.

He grunted, pleased with the thought. When his shift ended he could find Paper-Smell-Eyes-Seeing-FriendGryphon- Garack and have him teach-learn the words to put it on paper, to go with the rest of the musings he had made since coming to the surface. He was getting good at those.

"Gemhunter!" a voice called over the din, sharp and distinct to his hearing. He turned towards the voice, and found himself grinning, a sight that made more then one of the shine-ponies look twice in shock. Long-Feathered-SharpBeak-FriendGryphon- Osterick waved at him, moving through the crowd of griffons and ponies like a life in wind. "You wanna eat together? Glen and I found a nice spot near the lake, if you wanna come?" Behind him, Slender-Tall-Star-Crown-GladiousMate- Glendally smiled shyly, nodding her feather covered head, though she seemed sad-unsatisfied scent. Gemhunter grunted to himself, shaking his head at his friends seeming obliviousness towards his life-mate. Well, maybe Silent-Hunter could help in this regard.

"Nay, Friend-Osterick, you two go enjoy in this thing. Pack-Leader Brightfeather needs to speak to this one about an issue. I will find you after shift-time is done." Glendally seemed to smile brighter, and nodded her head in silent thanks at Silent-Hunter. However, Stonehead-GryphonFriend- Osterick seemed ignorant of the hint, and carried on? " What's the issue? Maybe we can help, right Glendally?" GryphonFriend-Glendally nodded her head again, though seemed more unsatisfied-sad scented.

Silent-Hunter was no newborn pup though, he knew how to deal with a block of granite, dense as it may be. " Is small problem, nothing that needs help from you two. I will join you two later," he said, waving one massive paw in in dismissal, almost knocking the head off of a passing shine-pony, who managed to ducked in time, and glared at the offending Diamond dog, who smiled and bowed his head in apology. The pony huffed and stormed away, head raised in the air.

He shook his head and turned back towards Osterick and Glendally, who, strangely, were smiling at the display, though Gryphon-Friend Glendally grabbed Ostericks hand, and dragged him along the flow of miners, with Gryphon-Friend Osterick sputtering the contact, and Glendally waving at him in thanks as they flowed further away towards the exit. Silent-Hunter smiled, waving back as the last of the miners and haulers left this part of the mine, and left him alone in the large, partially lit cave. He then wandered off in a random direction, intent on finding a place to have his meal in peace.

The mine seemed to be even larger today, which he always found incredible. These winged-lions were quick in their work, building and making what would have taken one of his kinds packs months of tunneling and gem finding. He thanked his sires-pack elders that he was here, in the midst of it all, and not hunting and scraping in the dark, like his ancestors had when the Sky Fell.

His GrandSire-Elder-Matriarch had told him tales of that time, when the twice cursed Nest Destroying-PackBetraying- ElderGod- monster the winged-lions called Discord had ruled, and thrown the world into chaos. She had been but a pup then, her Sire-Father the eldest Leader of the pack of the Shine-Stones. The packs had scoffed at the threat Discord had posed, her Sire-Father included, and had gathered in hordes to strike down this Mad God. His Grand-Sire had told him that her Sire-Father had promised to be home on a moons time or less, and gave her command of the pack while he was gone. She had believed him.

She never knew exactly what happened, but most never came back. The few that did were Moon Mad, speaking of rainbows that shot swords, and licorice that strangled their victims. And a few moons, later, the Day came that Sky Fell.

At first, it had been small. A cave in here, an Nest Collapse there, things that were odd, but not devastating. Then The Sky Fell. Sweet-Sour-Black-Burning-Chocolate flooded the many nests and tunnels of the Diamonds Dogs, drowning many Litters and Sire-Mothers in their sleep, collapsing Nests and Seems of gems and shine-stone. The roofs and skies rained fire, burning and scorching all but the most sturdy of nests. Packs turned on Kin, Slaves to the will of Discord. And through it all, his Grand-Sire has led her pack, doing her best to lead them through this time of ending.

Then, as soon as it had begun, it ended. And the packs thanked their ancestors, and sought to rebuild. But they had been shattered, broken. Grand-Sire had told him of packs who went mad, attack Pack-Kin and littermates, raiding the Winged-Lions and Shine-Ponies, who were enslaved themselves. They had lost much, forgetting their history, their oaths. It was a time of madness.

Then came Garrick.

He had been a pup when the Packs decided to pledge themselves to the Pack-Sire-Alpha-Emperor Garrick, Goldenfeather, Uniter, Defier of the Shadows. Breaker of chains. Some elders had argued against this, stating that the Packs didn't bow to outsiders, no matter if they were alpha. Then his Grand-Sire has spoken, reminding them of the Sky Falling, and Of the Lost Packs. How the Packs had thought they didn't need help with Discord, and perished alone, without their kin.

So the packs had pledged. And the Packs has Prospered.

He remembered the first time he had visited the capital, those massive walls of stone and iron. Of the thousands and thousands of Gryphons, working, playing, building, living. Fighting, yes, arguing, yes. But what siblings didn't fight? And like siblings and kin-mates, they made up, or established dominance.

They truly lived. Like a pack.

No, thought as he walked through the tunnel, finishing his meal.

Like a Tribe.

The Meal-Horn sounded throughout the cave, shaking him from his revelry. Silent-Moon- Swift-Runner-BrightStone-Hunter sighed to himself, and headed back the way he came, towards his Pack.

Once the Packs had been lost, but now they had been found. And it was thanks to the Emperor Garrick. And The Packs would repay that debt, no matter the cost.

AN: Aaaaaaagh. Done. @Questor, I give unto you this garbage. Probably non-canon but best to try lol b

 

[x0Nothing0x]

Holidays of Gryphus​

So traveler, as you know every land and every kingdom has their own customs, their own little quirks, and of course their own Holidays. Now some holidays cross boarders and even oceans but some are kept within the boarders of their own respected nations and I feel that makes them all the more special, and I can assure you that the Empire is no different. Now the first and oldest is the Feather Fall Festival or Featherfest for short. And when I say oldest I mean this one dates back to even before the discord times. From what I hear from the old griffs that lived through those times, apparently Discord lessened up on the chaos when big festivals were involved... granted people didn't have much to celebrate back then.

Anyways, back in the day Featherfest was just an end of fall celebration that was scattered between all the towns and cities where farmers gathered up their fall harvest, hunters and fishers grabbed as much of their hard earned game as they could, and brewers grabbed any spirit they could grab and had a large feast to celebrate the last few "warm" days of fall before winter truly came to say hello with it's snowy embrace. Their was dancing, their was singing, their were a more then a few drunken brawls, but back then Featherfest was more of a local thing that everyone did instead of a real holiday. What changed that was the unification war believe it or not. See before the war ended Aquileia waged a large siege on the capital of Wingbardy that lasted months and before that they kind of razed the country side a bit. So when the war was over and all three nations become one, one of the first things that happened was that Griffonia gave aid to Wingbardy and helped them recover from the war and the siege.

This took awhile and as you can probably guess and as such Griffonia was still helping Wingbardy rebuild when Featherfest came around. Now cities always had bigger celebrations do to the simple fact that they were larger, but when you have not only a capital, not only a capital filled with refugees who fled there to escape Aquileia's raid and waiting for their homes to be rebuilt, but also an army of workers from Griffonia that was large enough to help rebuild an entire country. Well let's just say that was one hell of a party. From what I hear it was so large that it lasted a whole week instead of just a day. And believe it or not the next year it got even bigger as Griffonia while done helping Wingbardy recover then went further west to help uplift Aquileia and came back for the next Featherfest along with a bunch of Aquilieans who heard about the massive festival from the year before from the same workers helping uplift their neck of the woods. From there it just seemed to grow from word of beak and just sort of become thee place to go to for Featherfest. Since then it's only gotten bigger what with mushroom shine adding even more spirits to the table, black powder which added fireworks, and other things brought in by the crystal ponies and the Neighponese... well, now we got plays going on, eating contest, drinking contest, actual proper fighting evens, same old drunken brawls, actual bands for music, and the same old drunks singing whatever songs they can still remember, and whatever else get thrown in.

Thing has grown so popular that Garibaldi Talonuelli spends a small fortune every year just to make sure it's just as big as the year before if not bigger. Heh, probably doesn't hurt that he more then makes up for what he spends on bands and what not from all the people that come now every year just for Featherfest. Now towns and cities still hold their own smaller, more traditional Feather Fall Festivals but it seems that Wingbardy has become thee place to go for the true Featherfest experience . So if you ever find yourself in Gryphus near the end of fall I highly suggest you try to make your way over to Wingbardy's old capital as their is so much stuff in Featherfest now that you're bound to find something you'll love. But that is the oldest holiday in Gryphus, how about I tell you about the newest.

And when I say new I mean it doesn't even have a proper name yet. So the story behind this one is a little sadder then the last. You see it all started after the first battle with sombra in the pass. You know the one. And shortly after king Garrick had the eternal flame memorial built it became a habit for the solders who lived through that battle and the families of those who fell in that battle to show up at the memorial on the anniversary of that battle, griffons, dogs, and yaks included, to pay their respect to the fallen. Now at first this was just a simple day to morn and remember those loss but soon it took a different turn.

Now it started when the yak shamans came to help ease any burdens their fallen warriors might have had when they fell in that battle because when they speak to the dead they wear this makeup over their bodies to help speak to the dead easier and it kinda resembles a skeleton. You see Griffons sort of have this ancestor worship where we believe that our ancestors watch over us when they pass so that we're never truly alone and some times we ask them for advice or strength or whatever when we go through a tough time in our life. Yaks have something similar where they believe that when they pass, their sprits reunite with the earth and they become one with the rocks and the trees and the sky and all that. So when some of the yak shamans start showing up and talking with the dead... well the griffons start talking to their old friends as well.

Then when we first managed to free a bunch of crystal ponies from sombra before we took him down they became refugees here in the empire. Before we managed to find all of them a home though they kinda lived in refugee camps around the empire and one was located near the memorial. One of the crystal ponies there who saw these old solders who fought to help free her people coming to morn their fallen, as well as just the low spirits that all crystal ponies had back then after what they went through while enslaved to sombra, apparently decided she had enough of everyone being sad and decided to turn that day of morning into a day of smiles and celebration. Apparently she has been quoted saying, "If you were in their place would you rather your friends or family be sad or would you rather they live each day with a smile on their face?"

Some of her fellow ponies seemed to agree with her, or at least wanted to do something to repay those who had fought to free them and still fighting to free their fellows still living under sombra's control and got together to make candy and other simple treats that they then gave to those at the memorial to enjoy and share with their fallen loved ones. The pony that started the whole thing apparently tried to make little griffon, yak, and pony shaped head candies but since the refugees didn't have to much in the way of supplies back then they came out a little minimalistic and all of them where bone white. They were jokingly called candy skulls by some of the people she gifted them to and the name kinda stuck. But anyways after this happened people then started leaving some of the spare candy next to the names of their fallen loved ones as well as some other food and things that they liked back when they were alive. Now a few more years later after we finally knocked Sombra off his twisted thrown and freed the rest of the crystal empire the next evolution of this forming holiday happened.

So a visiting Neighponese traveler heard about the Eternal flame and wanted to go see it. While there they saw one of the Yak shamans in their skull makeup talking to the dead. Curious on what he was doing he went up and asked. Unfortunately this traveler wasn't the most fluent in the griffon language, and the yak had a bit of an accent so their was a slight miscommunication. See the Neighponese also have their own ideas on what happens after someone dies. They believe that the individual's spirit does pass into the sprite world but they also believe that they can come back to the living world for short periods of time. So when the shaman explained to the traveler what he was doing the traveler thought he said it was a celebration for the dead and that EVERYONE dressed up like the shaman to help the sprites of their love ones find their way back to the world of the living to celebrate with them. He then went and told his friends who were also from Neighpon about this celebration, and then they told their friends, and so on and so on.

After that they all got together, painted skeletons on themselves in every color of makeup they had, grab a bunch of candles and paper lanterns, and then came down to the memorial and start placing their lights everywhere and started singing and dancing. For you see they figured that this celebration was similar to rituals they preform when they wish to attract spirits back home where they lay out candles and lanterns and sing or chant to help the sprit finds its way back to the land of the living. Now if this happened any other time it might have been seen as offensive, but since Sombra was just slain everyone was in very high spirits so they actually joined in with the Neighponese visitors and sang their old war songs and danced little dances while the crystal ponies handed out food and candy to whoever wanted them. Speaking of the ponies, apparently they really got into the swing of things and start coloring their candy as well as themselves. The candy skulls especially as they started to look like they got into a fight with a rainbow and lost. Some of them even went up to some of the yak shamans and asked if they could paint some of those skeleton markings on them which the shamans obliged them with no small hint of amusement.

It didn't stop their either. Up to this point people really only talked and left food for the fallen solders at the memorial and only those who know the fallen and the crystal ponies seemed to really celebrate it, but that night the whole city seem to join in and from what I hear people where even leaving offerings for past loved ones at the local graveyards as well as the memorial. A trend that seems to have continued the following years as well. Now so far it seems that only the city with the memorial celebrates this new holiday, but I've heard that some of the nearby towns have also started having a similar celebration around the same time and it seems to be growing. Now I do have to say that this little holiday is a strange one. I mean it's about remembering those who we loved who have passed, but instead of grieving it's a celebration, a day FOR the dead if you will. Not really sure how I should take that but I can't say I'm against the idea of my future loved ones remembering me long after I'm gone. Feels nice in a way, to know that you will be remembered and that you will still be loved even when your gone.

Aw but listen to me ramble on and on while you sit out their in the cold. Come in, come in and rest your weary head. We can talk more inside where it's warm after we both have something nice to chew on. Besides I'm sure you have things you wish to say as well and are probably tired of hearing an old crow like me go on and on and on.

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Ok so all that talk about culture and whatnot actually got me thinking about what kind of holidays the Griffons would have and I came up with Featherfest (Octoberfest) and what is basically Mexico's day of the dead. The latter one came from how griffons have ancestor worship and then thinking how the beliefs of their neighbors might effect their beliefs since I'm pretty sure that yaks and Neighponese have similar enough beliefs on their respected afterlives that it might have some bleed over.

Anyways @Questor, here's another omake for you if you want it. Hope it's not crap.