//------------------------------// // Family Honour // Story: The Voice of the Sun // by Lev the Lurker //------------------------------// Chapter 7: Family Honour “... and then he asked me on a date, a real date! Me! and I said yes! Then I actually kissed him on the cheek!” exclaimed Raindrops bouncing on the bed in excitement. Lyra couldn’t help but smile at that. Raindrops was one of those ponies who gave the impression she was born middle aged. It was hard to remember that she was actually the youngest of her group of friends by several years, and that not too long ago she’d still been a filly. “Oh Lyra! It was just magical!” she sighed as she threw herself back on the bed giggling. “Ok, who are you and what did you do with Raindrops?” asked Lyra with mock seriousness. “The Raindrops I know doesn’t giggle. You’re some sort of spy right?” “Lyra!” exclaimed Raindrops. “I’m happy. Can’t I just be happy?” A little pleading started to edge into her voice. “Of course you can, and I’m happy that you’re happy, but don’t you think this is all a bit quick?” she said gently. Although it wasn’t in her nature, she felt she had to be the voice of reason. “It’s not like you bumped into him at Berry’s place on a Friday night. We’re in an embassy in the middle of Griffin territory, it’s not a normal place for you to pick up a date. What do you actually know about him?” Raindrops grimaced for a moment and Lyra felt a little bad for bringing her back to earth. “I know he works in the embassy, I know he used to be an actor, I know he smells of jasmine, I know he likes me,” exclaimed Raindrops. “What about you and Bon Bon, didn’t you just know you were perfect together?” “I knew Bonnie for a long time before we started to date and we didn’t just get together like that,” she sparked her horn for a fraction of a second. “It’s taken a long time and a lot of work before we got to where we are at the moment.” And we still have our rocky times, she silently added. “But sometimes you just meet somepony and you just know, right? You just know you’re meant to be together, that happens right?” Lyra looked into Raindrops’ expectant face and tried to hide a sigh. First love was always difficult, you always thought it was going to last forever, that everything was perfect, because you didn’t know anything else. She didn’t want to break Raindrops’ heart, this Kindle might really like her, or he might just be looking for a way to get under her tail. She’d certainly known stallions, and mares, like that. She’d been a mare like that once or twice. It was fine as long as both of the ponies were on the same page. “Maybe,” she admitted, “But not often outside of books. Real relationships in the real world, well, they’re complicated. Things can be messy, things can go wrong.” “Oh,” said Raindrops, her ears starting to droop. Lyra looked away, she didn’t want to see her friend this way. “I’m not going to say this is going to be one of those times, but if you do like this Kindle then maybe you should take things a little slower and get to know him a little. Maybe once this is all over?” “But once this is over we’ll be sent back to Ponyville and he’ll still be here or reassigned somewhere else, I might not see him again!” “You’d have to think about that anyway.” “We could write, and visit, as a knight I can travel for free, maybe he’ll get a posting near Ponyville? You and Bon Bon had to get used to a long distance relationship, when you were in Canterlot, right?” “Yeah,” Lyra rubbed the back of her neck nervously, “and that didn’t exactly work out.” “Please! Maybe this won’t work out, but maybe it will! Don’t I deserve a chance to find out? Don’t I get a chance to be happy like you and Bon Bon?” There was no way Lyra could say no to that. She might not be quite as romantic as Raindrops but she had to admit the younger mare did deserve a chance of a special somepony like she had. “Ok, ok, it’s your decision anyway. I’ll just tell you again, be careful and don’t let him pressure you into anything you don’t want to do!” Inside she winced, she sounded like her fathers! Maybe their advice hadn’t been quite as bad as she’d thought back then. “When is this date supposed to be anyway?” “Oh, um, noon. Noon today,” said Raindrops. “Noon?” she glanced out of the window, the sun was fully risen above the horizon. “He doesn’t waste time does he?” That set off another few alarm bells in Lyra’s mind, she wanted to ignore them but she wanted to make sure her friend was safe. If she got the chance she’d try and find out what she could about this Kindle pony. “That’s only a few hours away now, what if Quizzing has something for us to do today?” “What could he have us do? Wander into the lion’s den again? Even if the Voice wants another chat what more are we going to find out? Corona’s certainly not skulking around the place, and it’s not like me or you is going to change the Griffins mind’s about her, that should be Quizzing’s job.” “Yeah, I guess you’re right,” admitted Lyra. “Ok I’ll cover for you if I can, give you some time with lovercolt.” Raindrops nodded eagerly, but then her face was broken by a wide yawn and her eyes dipped. “Maybe give you a few hours to catch up on your sleep as well. This romance is really taking it out of you.” “Thanks,” nodded Raindrops yawning again. “You’re a good friend.” “I’ll remember that next time I need some romantic weather for a night out with Bonnie. Come on, let's get ready, breakfast should be ready by now and I’m starving.” Raindrops nodded and skipped off the bed, heading towards the tiny en-suite bathroom. “Oh, and Raindrops,” the younger mare looked back at her, “that looks good on you.” “What does?” asked Raindrops glancing down at her dress. “Being in love, you should try it more often, even if this thing with Kindle doesn’t work out.” * * * The embassy canteen was packed by the time the two of them got to it. Lyra kept her eyes open for any sign of Kindle. She didn’t see the stallion, maybe he’d already eaten, or was sleeping. Still it was a bit odd she hadn’t seen him around before. She and Raindrops filled their trays with what was rather optimistically being considered breakfast and sat down at an empty table to eat. Raindrops was definitely flagging by now, just about managing to hold her head above her food as she chomped mechanically, eyes almost closed. “Ah, dames?” called Quizzing as he, Lightning and Haymaker approached to join them. “We have some news.” Raindrops scowled at their arrival while Lyra looked up with interest. “What’s up?” she asked. “My local contacts have managed to find out what caused the Voice to have to leave you last night,” explained the ambassador. “It appears that Terror Wing was causing trouble, he apparently roughed up his brother-in-law and accused him of dishonouring his clan by cheating on his wife. It caused something of a kerfuffle. The Voice had to step in to calm things down a bit, it’s still simmering and apparently the king has ordered Terror Wing to appear in front of him at court today.” “Sounds like a family matter to me, what’s it got to do with us?” asked Raindrops. “It’s the perfect situation to discredit the Solartics in the eyes of the locals of course,” said Quizzing. “There will almost certainly be a duel of some sort and if Terror Wing loses then it will be the perfect time to speak against his patron.” “A duel?” asked Lyra in a wavering voice. “They’re quite common in griffin culture, they use them to settle many of their disagreements.” He noted Lyra’s uncomfortableness. “Don’t worry they’re rarely fatal, normally only to first blood or submission. Quite a fascinating ritual really.” “It’s a shame we don’t do the same in Equestria,” growled Lightning. “Might solve a few problems.” “When is this supposed to happen?” asked Raindrops. “The court will start officially at about ten although it pays to get there early. Any dueling probably won’t be before noon, there’s a surprising amount of ceremony to get through first, all very formalised,” explained Quizzing. “You seriously think it’s safe to bring the element bearers into a situation where several griffin will be brawling?!” shouted Lightning, banging a hoof on the table. “It’s perfectly safe for the spectators, if anyone were to try anything at the chief's court itself it would be complete diplomatic suicide, no griffin would ever trust the Corona’s ponies again. Outside of the duels themselves the situation is completely sacrosanct!” “I’m confident that my people will be able to provide protection for the element bearers in this situation,” added Haymaker. Raindrops let her head fall against the table for a moment before looking up. “Do we have to go? Isn’t this something you’d be better at ambassador? You seem to know about it all.” Lyra flashed a glare at her friend. “Under normal circumstances maybe, but now that we’ve introduced you to the clan it would be an insult if you didn’t at least make an appearance.” Lyra glanced at Raindrops who was looking at her pleadingly and sighed. “Does it definately have to be both of us?” she asked. “Raindrops doesn’t want to mention it but something she ate at the feast didn’t agree with her, she was up and down to the bathroom all night, didn’t get a wink of sleep, poor thing.” “You’ve been ill?” asked Lightning looking at Raindrops more closely. “It’s not that bad,” mumbled Raindrops looking a little embarrassed by Lyra’s lie. “I’m afraid we don’t have a doctor here,” said Quizzing worriedly, “We could send a message back to your friends and they could send somepony over I suppose.” He didn’t sound enthusiastic. “My people have some medical training,” noted Haymaker, “one of them should look at you.” “That’s really not needed, it’s, um, worked its way out now. I just need to catch up on my sleep,” said Raindrops trying not to blush. “So would it be all that great an offence if only I went to the court?” asked Lyra. “Well I suppose not,” said Quizzing stroking his mustache, “We can explain the issue to them, make our apologies...” “Good, that’s agreed then,” said Lyra standing up, “I’ll go to the court today, I’m sure it’ll be an interesting cultural experience, and Raindrops can catch up on her sleep. We can meet again this afternoon and see where we go from there.” “Sounds acceptable to me,” said Quizzing, and the rest of the ponies around the table nodded their agreement. Lyra mouthed ‘you owe me’ to Raindrops who nodded slowly. “Now I just need to make sure you’re kept safe while we’re gone,” said Lightning to Raindrops. “I’ll leave my best pony to look after you.” “You really don’t have too,” argued Raindrops, “I’ll just be in my room...” “Bootheel!” called Captain Lighting across the dining hall. The pony in question stood from where he was eating and started to trot over towards his commanding officer. On the way he took the opportunity to give Vast Volumes’ rather expansive flanks a slap, causing the older mare to give out a not entirely unappreciative squeal. “Yes Captain?” he said, giving a rather sloppy salute. “Miss Raindrops has been feeling rather unwell and will be taking to her bed for the rest of the day. Kindly make sure that she is not disturbed.” “Of course captain, I’ll tuck her in myself.” He turned to Raindrops and gave a theatrical wink. Raindrops scowled in return. “So, this court thing,” said Lyra giving a brittle smile, “do I need to dress up?” * * * Lyra picked at the hem of the toga. It was a nice enough outfit, although she had to concentrate on her ears to stop them knocking the laurel off every time she emoted. Still it would be nice if she could wear something else instead. She and the rest of the diplomatic party had once again made their way to the Griffin settlement via air chariot. She grinned as she enjoyed the feel of the air in her mane and the spectacular view all around, she could get used to this particular luxury. The court was being held in a different part of the city to those they had previously visited. It was in a large open area easily the size of a hoofball stadium positioned on a flat piece of land away from most of the homes. Around the edges of the area were great statues of what Lyra assumed were famous Griffins, all looking down judgmentally into the area below. Above those a few Griffin were moving around clearing the sky, it was odd to think of them doing the same job as weather pegasi even though she knew griffin had similar magic. This time the team from the embassy had a distinctly martial feel. The five shadowbolt members were wearing their full uniforms including armour, and had weapons held at the ready as did Captain Lightning. She had to admit that he looked decidedly competent with a long sword strapped to his side. It made her feel decidedly underdressed, not that she knew anything about armour or weapons. Quizzing didn’t seem to share her feelings and he continued to trot around in a simple white suit as if he didn’t have a care in the world. Lyra currently felt like she had quite a few cares as the majority of the settlement’s population seemed to be likewise armed and armoured for war. Everywhere she looked there were great muscular masses of fur and feathers crammed into plate or chain armour with swords or axes or spears strapped to their sides. It seemed to Lyra that every one of them was glaring with suspicion at the ponies amongst them. “Are you sure we’re safe?” she whispered to the captain standing next to her. “Not for a moment miss Heartstrings,” he replied, “But stay near me and the Shadowbolts. If anything does happen, we’ll protect you.” Not feeling at all reassured Lyra turned to the ambassador. “So what’s actually happening?” she asked. “Some sort of trial?” Lyra looked around, it certainly didn’t match an Equestrian courtroom. “In a way,” said Quzzing chewing his lip, “You see, by questioning his brother-in-law’s honour he also insulted the whole family, his own family, the king’s family. His father can’t let that stand so Terror Wing has to appear here to explain his behaviour.” “So he brings any evidence he has?” “Evidence doesn’t really matter I’m afraid; this isn’t like an Equestrian trial. No, the chief will demand that Terror Wing recants his claims which he won’t--it would be social suicide for Corona’s faction. So the accused will be called on to defend his honour, although from what I’ve been told he was quite badly wounded last night so likely his wife will claim that the slander impinged her honour as well and try to take his place.” “And they’ll fight? Brother and sister?” asked Lyra in astonishment, it seemed so alien to her, she couldn’t imagine say Cheerilee and Berry fighting in the street over a few words, or anything even, and those sisters weren't even the closest she knew. “Unless Terror Wing’s accusation is true of course, then she may just allow the fight to take place between her husband and brother.” “What do they do to each other?” Lyra swallowed painfully, watching two griffins beat each other bloody wasn’t her idea of a good time. Quizzing rested a leg on Lyra’s back for a moment. “Most duels are to first blood, more a test of skill than pure strength really. Still, for more serious issues it’s to submission which given how stubborn most griffin are can get rather... messy.” Lyra was glad her coat was already green; it hid how sick she was feeling. It was alright reading and singing about great battles and duels but the real thing was something she felt she didn’t need to see. “So what happens if Terror Wing wins?” “It’ll be a disaster. Not only will it wreck Giorgio and Gabriella’s marriage, but if she took the challenge it’ll prove she’s weaker than her brother so Terror Wing can likely lobby for himself to be named second in line of succession. Plus it’ll get a lot of the locals interested in whatever Corona did to him to make him like that.” “So bad for us then?” “Very.” “And if she wins?” it didn’t seem likely given what she’d seen of the augmented griffin. “Probably the best outcome for us, Terror Wing would be considered a liar and would have dishonoured his family twice over, so no one would want to associate with him and Corona’s stock in these parts would plummet. The perfect time for us to put our case to have her people removed.” Lyra’s ears perked up; that sounded pretty good, if unlikely. “That’s the spirit Dame Heartstrings,” continued the ambassador straightening his suit, “now we have to present ourselves to king Gavril.” The Equestrian delegation formed up into a tight huddle as it pushed through the milling crowds towards the king's throne, which was set on a block of stone to one side of the arena. Captain Lightning and the Shadowbolts came to a stop about half a dozen pony lengths from the ruler while Quizzing and Lyra slowly advanced closer. After a moment the chief turned his gaze on them, and the ambassador bowed while Lyra did her best curtsy. “I request your permission to join your court for today's events you highness,” intoned Quizzing. The chief grunted his agreement, apparently having more on his plate than a few visiting ponies before waving a dismissive claw at them. Lyra let out the breath she didn’t think she’d been holding and started to turn away, it looked like Raindrops hadn’t been missed at all. “Wait,” intoned the king just as she thought she was safely below his notice, “You’re the element bearer aren't you? The bard?” “I… I try to your majesty.” She gave a nervous giggle. “Well, bard. Today you see a king presiding over strife within his own people, within his own house,” he snorted bitterly, “and all due to pony influence. I’m sure you know many a song for this situation, it’s hardly the first time it’s happened.” “Your son’s actions have nothing to do with Equest--” began Quizzing. “We both know that he would never have taken things this far if your queen hadn’t ensourced him!” exclaimed the chieftain. “Corona isn’t our queen,” exclaimed Lyra, “um, your lordship,” she backpedaled as he turned his gaze on her. “She was banished and stripped of her position!” “I don’t think it matters what you think on the matter, it’s more important what Corona herself thinks. Whenever trouble brews in Equestria it always seems to be the other nations that suffer, most often ours, or do you think the sun not setting only affected your country?” “Well no of course not...” “And now my people are forced to choose sides in a conflict that is nothing to do with them and risk being washed away by the river of history if they choose wrongly.” “I’m sure the Princess wouldn’t do anything to hurt you, even if you sided with Corona, as long as you didn’t attack Equestria,” said Lyra. The king threw back his head and laughed loudly. “I think you know your ruler less than you think you do little pony.” His voice hardened. “You may stay and watch but do not intervene.” He gestured away dismissively before turning back to the nobles around him. Quizzing grabbed Lyra and pulled her aside. “What did he mean about not knowing the princess?” she asked. “There’s been quite a history of friction between Equestria and the Griffin Kingdoms,” explained Quizzing and the party took up their places not that far from the chief’s throne. “I know that, I’ve read most of the histories and tales.” “Yes, well the truth is often a little more political than the stories say. Things didn’t always work out quite as cleanly. The king himself has-” “Waz’up,” came a raspy voice from behind them. Lyra turned to see a large brown shape drop down from the sky, she started to cry out but two of the Shadowbolts were already there spears raised, forcing Gilda to flap desperately to avoid being impaled. “Hey, watch what you’re doing with those pig splitters!” she cried. “Don’t hurt her,” said Lyra, “She’s a friend.” Well, sort of, she thought. At least she was one of the few griffins she knew around here, which was more or less the same thing. The two armed ponies stood aside smoothly and the griffin landed gently. “Dropsy still not about?” asked Gilda, her head twisting around. “She’s not feeling well,” said Lyra remembering her friend’s alibi. Gilda frowned. “I though it’d take more than a bit of undercooked rabbit to take her down.” Lyra just shrugged. “So, you’re here to watch the duel as well?” she asked. “Everygriffin who’s anygriffin is here,” said Gilda, “I’ve had some dealings with the chief’s kids before, so I thought I’d come and lend my support.” “Are they here already?” said Lyra looking around. “That’s them over there in front of their dad.” She pointed a talon towards a small group standing to attention in front of the throne. “That’s commander Gabriella,” she indicated a tall griffiness with a yellow coat. She looked like she’d been in the wars; the white plumage that could be seen through her armour was marked with dozens of bald patches caused by scars. Her appearance made Lyra recalculate the odds of Terror Wing winning if she was to take the field against him. “And that’s her husband Giorgio.” The griffin in question was a head and shoulder shorter than his wife, his plumage, coat and extremely impressive mustache near black. He was thin, well preened, and was wearing some sort of padded jacket. His only visible wounds were apparently fresh: a thick bandage was wrapped around his head and one of his forelegs was strapped up. “Rather odd couple aren't they?” said Quizzing. Lyra shrugged. After all look at her and Bon Bon, one a fantastically talented, hugely attractive, loving mare and the other was her! Looking at it from the outside she’d have never thought they’d be together, from the inside they were perfect for each other. “He’s the second son of some inner Kingdom lord from what I hear, a political marriage to secure a trade deal.” Gilda nodded. “Seems to be working out well for all involved. I suppose he’s sort of hot in an inner kingdom fop sort of way.” She shrugged. “She certainly seems to like him.” As if to highlight the statement Gabriella leaned down and nuzzled against her wounded husband. “It looks like the rest of the family are here to support her,” she pointed to another griffin, a male similar to Gabriella but a touch taller, more lithe and somewhat less battered. “That hunk of gorgeousness is the chief’s eldest son Gwion, the current heir to the throne.” Lyra blinked. Certainly he seemed large and somewhat handsome but didn’t seem all that to her. Then again she wasn’t a griffin, maybe their tastes were different in stallions. Lyra opened her mouth to ask a question but she was interrupted by Quizzing. “Ah, here comes Corona’s delegation now,” he said looking up and shading his face from the sun. Lyra supposed it made symbolic sense that Corona’s forces would arrive from out of the sun but the practical side of it made the moment a little less dramatic. It was almost impossible to actually look at them without being blinded so all that happened was that the visitors seemed to appear once they reached the ground. Terror Wing was in the lead and his appearance made Lyra’s hopes that his sister might be able to beat him crumble. Possibly her recollection from last night was faulty or maybe he’d actually grown but he truly was a giant, massing half again as much as the next biggest griffin present. He made most of the crowd look as small as foals, hardly coming up to his wings. His honour guard, although still burly specimens of their species, seemed entirely unnecessary--surely no other here could challenge him? She managed to drag her eyes from the spectacle for a moment to notice the small mare from the dinner last night hop off the back of one of the other griffin. Lyra gazed around and to her surprise there was no sign of the Voice of the Sun, surely he would attend such an important event? The fact he wasn’t here worried her, where else could he be? And what else could he be doing? The mare scampered forwards and levitated something to Terror Wing, apparently some sort of scroll as he unrolled it with some difficulty, his great talons tearing into the paper. He studied it for a moment before tossing it aside contemptuously and striding forwards across the field towards the chief's seat, his red plumage seeming to flow like flame as he went. His entourage followed behind him, the little mare having to gallop to keep up. As he approached the rest of his family formed up in front of his father. “FATHER!” Terror Wing bellowed when he finally came to a halt a few feet in front of the throne. He bowed low, his beak almost touching the ground. “YOU HAVE SUMMONED ME AND I HAVE COME!” “Son,” rumbled the chief in a quieter but more commanding voice easily understandable by all those present. “You have accused your sister’s husband of betraying her and have attacked him outside of a challenge.” He leaned forwards. “What is the meaning of this dishonourable behaviour?” “I AM DISHONORABLE?!” cried Terror Wing, “HE,” he pointed to Giorgio who flinched slightly, “HE HAS DISHONOURED US ALL, WHAT HE HAS DONE, HE AND HIS WH-” “SHUT UP!” came a cry. It took a moment for Lyra to realise it had not been the chief who had responded, but Gabriella who had stomped forwards and was glaring head to chest at her ‘little’ brother. “Don’t you dare say another word! My husband has done nothing but honour me!” she snarled. “Everything he has done has been for me, not himself,” “HE IS WEAK!” spat Terror Wing contemptuously. “I beat him easily, he hardly fought back. I’m stronger than him, I’m stronger than all of you! Thanks to the blessings of the sun I--” Smoke stepped forwards and tried to speak up, her voice hesitant and hardly audible above Terror Wing’s cries. “What your son means to say, oh king, is that he was so overcome by the shame that his brother in law had caused to his family that he was unable to stop himself.” Her eyes flicked to the remains of the scroll held in her aura. “He is truly ashamed of his behaviour and begs your forgiveness in this matter but...” “Is my son so weak that he needs a pony to talk for him?” snarled the chief. “NO!” cried Terror Wing, his wing sweeping out and knocking Smoke away. “I AM STRONG, FATHER!” he insisted. “Let me prove it, please,” he continued, his voice for the first time reduced to something approaching a normal volume. “Will you recant your lies about your sister's husband?” “NEVER! I DO NOT LIE!” “Very well, then I call upon Giorgio of my house to defend his honour, do you agree to a duel?” The slighter griffin limped forwards, his wife’s eyes following him as he went. After a moment she moved forwards and opened her mouth but Giorgio shook his head. “I accept the challenge of Terror Wing, I will fight him until he surrenders to prove that I am true to my wife.” Lyra raised her hoof to her mouth, the size difference between the two griffin was almost comical. Terror Wing looked like he could pick up his opponent with one talon and crush him and that was without considering that the smaller griffin was already injured. “However, as his words have insulted my whole family I ask that they be allowed to defend our honour as well! I request a triad duel be allowed.” Terror Wing cocked his head to one side in confusion. A rumble of confused voices could be heard around the area, every griffin seemed to be talking at once. “So be it,” commanded the chief, raising his voice as he nodding his head, “let the other two challengers name themselves.” “I will stand with my husband!” said Gabriella, stepping up to stand next to Giorgio. “I will stand with my sister’s husband,” announced Gwion, causing another round of whispers. “It appears I need to teach my little brother another lesson.” Terror Wing looked startled and maybe even a little scared for a moment, then a confident smile spread across his face and he flexed his talons. “I will enjoy putting you in your place for once brother,” he crowed before gesturing to two of his followers. “These two will stand with me, not that I will need them!” he announced. “What weapons will you use?” asked the chief. “I need nothing but my own talons to deal with these father, TO DO YOU PROUD!” announced Terror Wing flexing his claws. The rest of his family nodded. “Very well. The combat will begin when the sun is at its highest,” said Gavril pointing into the sky. “AND IT IS THE SUN THAT WILL GRANT ME THE STRENGTH TO CLEAR MY FAMILY'S HONOUR,” bellowed Terror Wing happily. He bowed to his father again and the rest of the family followed suit before beginning to strip off their armour and weapons. The rest of the Herald of the Sun’s forces took their places in the circle around the arena not that far from where Lyra stood. “That was odd,” mumbled Quizzing. “It was horrible!” said Lyra. “Well, yes, but the chief could have minimised the damage by declaring the fight to be to first blood, less honour lost and gained all round that way. If Terror Wing does manage to beat both his siblings in a submission duel Gavril will also certainly be forced to declare him his heir. Does he really want to hand his lands off to Corona?” he mused. “Terry’s airing his family's dirty laundry,” whispered Gilda to Lyra. Quizzing seemed to be distracted watching the events. “What do you mean?” replied Lyra. Gilda cocked her head to the side for a moment seeming to consider the issue, then shrugged. “It’s an open secret anyway. Part of Gabriella and Giorgio’s wedding agreement was that she produce an heir within five years. Well not that long after the wedding she took a manticore stinger to the belly.” The Griffoness winced, running a talon across her abdomen. “Put an end to any producing from her. Wasn’t clear if she was going to pull through for a while, Giorgio waited at her bedside for weeks, reading to her if the tales are true. Bit surprising really, most of the marriage deals end up with the ‘happy couple’ at each other's throats, I guess sometimes fairytales come true.” She shrugged again. “Anyway Gabriella and Giorgio have been looking for another griffoness to take up her duties. Once the cubs are out and about they’ll claim they’re hers and everygriff’s happy. Even his family probably suspects what’s going on, but the alliance’s working out well for them so they’re happy to ignore it as long as it's kept quiet. Of course Terry isn’t quiet and the chief can’t let him openly spill the beans so they have to shut him down if they can. If the fight was to first blood then even if he lost there’d be some who’d whisper that he was right about Giorgio, but a submission duel will make them all shut up. Even if it does give Terry a chance to show off this flashy new magic body of his. I think he’s probably bitten off more than he can chew though, Gabriella and Gwion, they’ll put him down no matter what your sun pony did to him.” Lyra certainly hoped so. “How do you know all that?” she asked. “Well I just happen to be a young, fertile, staggeringly sexy griffoness from a not half bad blood line.” She rested her talons under her beak. “I wonder how I might have found out?” She winked. “I might have taken up the offer of a roll in the clouds with the royal couple if getting knocked up hadn’t been part of the deal. Well, maybe if they'd added a chance with Gwion in to sweeten the deal. Oh, and no way is Gabriella being forced into this, she was one hundred and ten percent behind the surrogacy idea, raring to help out anyway she could, and I do mean any way. Well, maybe that was just for me, I have that effect on some griffonesses,” she grinned. ”Probably means Giorgio wasn’t propositioning anygriff when Terry jumped him or the missus would have been there as well.” Lyra nodded, that made her feel even more sympathy for the griffin couple. She was the result of a similar surrogacy agreement after all, although things were less under the table in Equestria. It did make her wonder what dad had been doing while pops and Skyla were... she quickly cut off her thoughts. She wasn’t a prude but she really didn’t want to think too closely about the exact events of her conception. While she was thinking, the two groups of soon to be combatants had finished stripping and were standing to attention in front of the throne. “I don’t know much about fighting,” hissed Lyra, “but wouldn’t it be better if they were wearing armour?” “Armour’s for war,” explained Gilda as if it were obvious, “when you want to win regardless of everything else. A duel’s more for show. You want to look your best, really show off the scars.” “That’s important?” “Of course. Scars show others how awesome you are; you can tell a griffin’s whole history from their scars. This one,” she pointed at a thin patch of bare skin on her brow, ”my first duel, didn’t duck quite low enough and Garry almost scalped me, course I made him eat dirt a few seconds later. This bad boy,” she raised a wing to show an angry red scar across her side, “kobold booby trap, caused an avalanche, took me most of an hour to dig my way out, but I survived. You got any minty?” “Oh, um, one or two,” mumbled Lyra. she ran a forehoof down an almost invisible seam on her hind leg, “bone golem claw,” she explained. Gilda leaned forwards to get a better look. “Not bad,” she said with a whistle, “you ponies are full of surprises.” Lyra looked away, feeling a little sick at how calmly the griffin was taking the times she’d almost died. By the throne the chief was indicating for his son in law and his supporters to move to the far side of the area while Terror Wing remained near him. “That’s not a good sign,” said Quzzing. “The fighter who remains closest to the lord has his favour. It looks more and more likely that he may decide to join Corona. That would certainly change the balance of things.” He looked thoughtful. On the field the combatants had apparently gotten themselves ready. At some unseen signal the chief rose from his seat. “My children, do you still need to duel over this issue? Will you not recant?” he asked, sounding old and sad for a moment. None of the griffins on the field moved. “Very well,” he continued resolutely, “Start the duel! May the strongest griffin win!” Rather than start by charging into each other, as Lyra thought they might have, the two sides slowly padded towards each other, apparently taking the measure of their opponents. They postured apparently trying to psych each other out. Terror Wing fluffed out his fur and feathers making him look even larger, eclipsing the other fighters. Looking closely Lyra could make out several bald patches here and there from previous injuries. “Yep, it’s not Terry’s first dance here,” said Gilda glancing down at Lyra, “his brother never let up any chance to challenge him in the past. Terry never won any of them of course, but he kept accepting. Persistent, probably the only good thing about him, or maybe it was just stupidity. Actually I think it was probably a daddy thing, he’s always looking for his dad’s approval. Never got it though.” Lyra shook her head. Things never seemed to be simple over here, and she actually felt a little pity for Terror Wing now, bullied by his brother. Gavril didn’t seem much of a father to him either. Was it any surprise he’d turned to Corona for revenge? Gabriella reared up giving a loud roar as she clawed at the air, revealing the long scar on her belly that was apparently the indirect cause of the duel. Several griffin shouted their support. Georgio hovered above his allies keeping any weight off of his injured leg, his eyes locked on Terror Wing. Gwion strutted forwards alongside his sister, eyes narrowed, a smug grin on his face as he nodded to the crowd. There was a piercing whistle from next to Lyra and she was startled to see Gilda with two talons stuck in her beak. “Shake it sexy!” she yelled before whistling again. Seeming to hear her Gwion stretched out his wings and arched his back posing for the crowd. “Come on, brother,” he yelled towards Terror Wing, “let's give the crowd what they want, I won’t hurt you too badly this time--runt!” Across the field from them the three Corona aligned griffins had spread out, with Terror Wing taking the centre and his two guards staying back. At his brother’s taunt Terror Wing clawed the ground and snorted, his eyes literally glowing as his red plumage seemed to sparkle in the noon light. “STRONGER THAN YOU!” he roared. Almost faster than Lyra could follow, Terror Wing shot across the field towards his opponents. She wasn’t sure if he was running or flying but he ate up the space between the two teams in a matter of seconds. Lyra saw Gwion’s eyes widen in surprise and for a moment his body started to twist aside but he halted the move and flexed his hind legs pushing himself forwards towards his charging brother instead. Lyra thought there should have been an explosion or flash of light as the two bodies smashed into each other with such force. Instead there was a crunch and Gwion was tossed back skidding across the ground, his claws cutting great furrows in the dirt as he struggled to stay upright. He finally came to a stop and blinked at where his brother now stood apparently unharmed in front of him. “You don’t understand do you brother?” growled Terror Wing joyously, “I’m not the runt you used to pick on as a cub anymore! CORONA HAS MADE ME TERROR WING! I’M FASTER!” he leapt forwards shouldering his brother aside before he could recover, “BETTER!” he slammed a closed claw into his brother's head forcing him to the ground, “STRONGER!” he locked his claws with his brother’s and tightened his grip, starting to cut into the backs of Gwion’s feet. With a growl the older Griffin started to rally. Forcing his hind legs to lock underneath him he pushed forward, forcing Terror Wing back and up, his talons slicing into his brother’s causing dark blood to drip onto the ground. The crowd, until now stunned by the speed of battle started to yell their support to one side or the other. “Come on Gwion!” yelled Gilda, “Show him who’s boss!” While the two male griffins were wresting at the centre of the field, Terror Wing’s seconds were fending off the rest of his family. One had taken to the air and was buzzing Giorgio, keeping the injured griffin off balance without attacking him. The second was attempting to ward Gabriella off with a series of talon swipes and wing buffets, but the scarred fighter was having none of it. She barged past the guard and leapt toward where her brothers were fighting. Intent on each other, Terror Wing and Gwion didn’t see her coming. She crashed into Terror Wing’s side, knocking him over and throwing his opponent aside. Picking himself up Gwion winced at the damage done to his talons, but ignoring the pain jumped forwards to aid his sister who was now slashing at the prone Terror Wing. A cheer went up from the crowd as the siblings teamed up on their younger brother. Although sickened by the violence Lyra was heartened, surely the fight would be over soon. Terror Wing couldn’t hold out against both his siblings could he? Her question was quickly answered as after a few seconds Gabriella was hurled aside with a yell. Terror Wing dragged himself to his feet, panting and bleeding from a number of small cuts but still defiant. He slammed out with a talon, catching his brother on the right of his face and snapping his head to the side. Then he followed up with a blow to the left and then another right throwing the older Griffin about like a rag doll. “DO YOU... DO YOU SURRENDER YET BROTHER?!” cried Terror Wing, grabbing Gwion by the back of his bloodied head. The older sibling’s only response was a slurred growl, with a yell Terror Wing smashed his brother’s face into the ground with a crack, his body tensed then lay still. “He killed him!” squeaked Lyra. “Nah,” grumbled Gilda unhappily, ”He’s just knocked out, counts as a submission, just not as embarrassing. Damn, I thought Gwion would take him, maybe there is something in this Corona thing after all...” Lyra looked up in panic, “just kidding,” she added with a grin. Lyra had no idea how her ally could joke at a time like this and turned back to the fight. Terror Wing reared up in triumph as the crowd roared their appreciation. It looked like his actions had won him a lot of support. While he was soaking in the adoration his sister took the opportunity to close again and swiped at him with her talons but much of the force was absorbed by his thick mane and he quickly turned to her. “Surrender, if you don’t want to end up like our brother,” he roared with a smile looming over the smaller Griffiness. Not bothering to waste any words Gabriella continued to swipe at her brother who easily batted away her blows. He pushed forwards and brought his head down against hers with a resounding crack, the force of the blow knocked her to the ground where she weakly shook her head, apparently trying to clear it. “IT’S OVER,” crowed Terror Wing, his own head shaking a little. Then he let out a cry as the angry form of Giorgio landed on his back and struck out with all three functioning limbs, drawing blood. Lyra glanced around the area and to her surprise she noticed that one of Terror Wing’s companions was slinking towards the edge of the arena with one wing hanging loose. It looked like one of Corona’s team had been defeated, presumably by Giorgio. With a pained growl Terror Wing shook himself from side to side trying to dislodge his attacker who pecked at his neck. Finally he rolled over trying to crush his brother in law. Giorgio managed to scramble away and leapt into the air. With a howl Terror Wing spread his own wings and joined him with a single powerful beat. He dived forwards talons outstretched trying to reach the smaller griffin but Giorgio nimbly rolled aside before flattening his body out as much as he could and flying straight up into the sky. After a moment Terror Wing followed at a slower pace snarling to frustration. “STOP RUNNING COWARD!” he cried. Almost reaching cloud height Giorgio stopped and hovered for a moment, watching Terror Wing approach before flipping over and streaking back towards his opponent. Caught by surprise, Terror Wing tried to twist in the air, but his greater bulk got in the way. As he shot past his opponent Giorgio’s functioning foreleg flashed out and tore a great chunk of flight feathers form Terror Wing’s wing. With a screech the larger griffin started to fall towards the ground, wings floundering around as he tried to regain control. He almost managed to level out before he reached the ground but Gabriella turned aside from the remaining Solartic griffin, who she had been trading blows with since her husband had taken to the air, and leapt into the sky. She barged into her brother’s falling form, knocking him off balance and making him slam into the ground in a cloud of dust. She and her husband dropped to the ground near Terror Wing’s twitching form, both gasping for air as they leant against each other. The victorious couple were about to turn on their last opponent, when suddenly Terror Wing’s body began to glow, a shaft of fire burst up from the ground around the red plumed griffin and his form seemed to be consumed by the inferno. Blinking, Lyra was forced to cover her eyes for a moment, What magic was that? she thought. When she could see again she was horrified to see Terror Wing standing in pristine condition in the same place that just a few moments ago his battered form had been slumped. “BY FIRE I AM REBORN,” he bellowed, stretching his now fully repaired wings wide. For a moment Terror Wing blinked seemingly as surprised as everyone else present by what had happened. Giorgio was the first to react and tried to take to the wing, however he wasn’t quick enough and Terror Wings’ talons closed around one of his hind legs. Seemingly without effort Terror Wing dragged the smaller griffin from the air and smashed him against the ground before tossing his insensate body towards his wife. In a panic she moved to cushion the impact but was knocked from her feet by the force of her husband's form. Triumphantly Terror Wing padded over towards his sister as she tried to push her husband’s body off of herself. Terror Wing loomed over her as one of his talons closed around the unconscious griffin’s neck. “Care to surrender sister?” he asked almost gently as he tightened his grip. A look of panic shot over Gabriella’s face as her eyes shot back and forth between her brother and her husband. “I... I yield,” she declared her head dropping, much to the derision of the crowd. “FATHER,” cried Terror Wing turning towards the chief on his throne. “I HAVE WON!” Around the area the crowd roared their support. Lyra watched in horror. The griffins respected strength and with all of Terror Wing’s siblings now laid out battered and broken while he looked fresher than he had when the fight had started, his plumage bright and his coat smooth and unmarked, he looked like a hero. There was no way the king wouldn’t side with Corona after he’d seen this, even if he didn’t want to, his people would demand it. Then she thought of something. “Unscarred,” she gasped then she lit her horn amplifying her voice. “UNSCARRED!” she yelled, “WHERE ARE HIS SCARS!” next to her Gilda’s eyes widened and she took up the chant. Seemingly in surprise Terror Wing glanced down at his own titanic form. His rebirth had returned him to an almost perfect state removing any marks of previous fighting. The cuts in his talons, on his back and sides were all gone as where the older wounds, his skin was as clear as a cub’s. “No scars, no honour!” cried Gilda. “Where’s the honour in a fight you can’t lose!” called Lyra starting to get into it. Terror Wing swung his burning gaze on her and she shrunk away from the sheer rage on his face. There was an excited mumbling around the arena as the crowd started to take in this development. Some started to boo, others to yell at each other. The chief gestured for silence but nothing happened, he gestured again and again before the hubbub started to die down. “My son,” he proclaimed, “the duel is over, but,” he paused, “the crowd is right. How can there be honour in this matter without any risk, without any scars... I have much to think about... you are dismissed for the moment.” Lyra felt her spirits rise, maybe the griffins could see the cost of Corona’s magic. “BUT I WON! I BEAT THEM BOTH!” argued Terror Wing. “And I have much to consider!” replied Gavril, his voice cracking like a whip. In front of him, Terror Wing winced. “You are dismissed, we will discuss this matter later, go!” For a moment it looked like Terror Wing was going to keep arguing, but then he turned and started towards the rest of his delegation. On the way he stopped and turned to glare at Lyra, murder in his eyes. “We should get you out of here, dame,” said Captain Lightning, pulling her back from the crowd. “Actually, here is the safest place for her,” said Quizzing. “With that monster out to get her! He could challenge her at any point! I’ll have no more of your horse apples!” “This is one of the few places that can’t happen Captain,” snapped Quizzing. “The talking horse there is right,” said Gilda. “You can’t challenge anyone for anything that happens at the arena, stops fights going round and round.” “And if he tries to trump up a reason to fight, well there are dozens of witnesses here,” agreed the ambassador. “We can’t keep her here for ever!” exclaimed Lightning. “No but we can keep the dame here until the court is finished; the rest of my team can prepare for a quick extraction once the area is clearer,” said Haymaker, nodding to the other Shadowbolts. “Hey, don’t I get a say in this?” asked Lyra. “Not when it comes to your safety,” said Lightning, he paused for a moment scowling as Lyra glared at him. “Fine,” he said lowering his gaze after a moment. “But I will keep an eye on the situation and we will evac the moment I say so.” Haymaker nodded. “Good.” Lyra sighed, she guessed she wasn’t going anywhere for a while. * * * It was surprising how quickly you could get used to fighting, thought Lyra as she watched what must be the dozenth duel of the day. Of course most of them were rather less epic than the first fight, usually they were to first blood. Those actually looked more like dances than combat, with the two griffins twirling around each other trying to find an opening. She turned to Quizzing to ask him how many more matches there were to be and was surprised to find him missing. Then she remembered he’d said he was going to talk with some of the griffin nobles to try and get a feel of the support for Corona after Terror Wing’s actions. He had been gone a while; she hoped nothing had happened to him although he did have Haymaker to look after him. “We’ll leave now,” said Lightning. “Huh, what?” said Lyra in confusion. “The crowds are starting to disperse,” he explained, “if we wait much longer we risk being caught alone.” “What about the ambassador?” “He can make his own way back for all I care. I’m in charge of your safety, not his!” “Look he can’t have gone far, just give me a few minutes to look for him, there’s no sign of Terror Wing anyway.” Lightning opened his mouth to veto the suggestion but Lyra was already trotting away. “That mare is going to be the death of me,” he mumbled before following her, the four Shadowbolts in tow, their eyes flicking around the room. Lyra’s horn glowed for a second, she shut her eyes and flinched for a moment. “This way!” she announced pointing towards the cliffs to one side of the arena. “How do you know?” “I can make out his voice.” “From this distance?” he asked in surprise. “Magic, it lets me detect any voice I’m familiar with even in a crowd.” “Useful.” “Not all that great, I can’t make out what they’re saying, just that they’re talking. Plus I have a friend who can do better without magic,” she glanced ahead, her eyes narrowing as she picked out the figure of the ambassador and Haymaker in a small alcove in the cliff, what surprised her was the third pony with them. “Smoke!” snarled Lightning, “What is the ambassador doing with that traitor? I knew I shouldn’t have trusted him” He galloped towards the small group, Lyra and the Shadowbolts in tow. “What are you doing here?” he roared. Quizzing jumped in surprise and swung around to face his accuser. “Captain!” he exclaimed, “Me and Haymaker were just making our way back to you when Smoke here asked to talk to us,” he said smoothly. The shadowbolt nodded his agreement. Lightning’s eyes narrowed. “What do you have to talk about?” “Quite a bit, we are all Equestrians after all, despite ending up on opposite sides.” “Indeed,” said Smoke, “I was just explaining to the ambassador that our griffin associates mean no harm to yourself or any of the embassy’s staff. The herald’s issues are with his own people alone.” She sounded a little embarrassed. “He may be hot blooded but he would not act without his queen's authority. If his father does indeed choose to side with the true Equestrian government then you and your staff may be asked to leave but we do not wish any harm upon you.” “Isn’t this the sort of thing that the Voice would be normally be telling us?” asked Lyra. “Where is he?” “I am afraid the Voice of the Sun is indisposed at the moment,” said Smoke, “but do not worry, everything he is doing is in the service of Equestria,” her tail thrashed around, she didn’t seem all that happy, thought Lyra. “Look, you seem a nice enough mare,” said Lyra trying to start up a conversation. “How did you end up working with a load of solartics?” “We, we all have our own reasons for wanting to serve the Queen.” “And yours were?” “Personal,” she said, her voice somewhat icy. “But they were for the best, they have given me opportunities that I might not have ever received on my own. I get to work alongside one of the greatest stallions in all Equestria.” She sighed. “I have received instruction from the alicorn of the sun herself. I... I am happy with my role.” Once again she didn’t seem all that convinced. Lyra considered, this mare might be the weak point in Corona’s forces here. Unlike the Voice she didn’t seem all that devoted to her cause. Maybe with some effort they might get her to spill their opponent’s secrets. Seeming to realise her own weakness, Smoke quickly started to trot back towards the arena pushing past the ambassador and his bodyguard as she went. “Now if you would excuse me I have further duties to carry out.” With that she quickly faded from view. For a moment Lyra thought she might have teleported but the disappearance had been too slow for that, it was more likely an invisibility spell like Trixie used. She swivelled her ears for a moment seeing if she could hear the mare’s progress. Then to her suprise Captain Lightning leapt at Quizzing. “What did she give you!” he yelled, his hooves running over the ambassador’s body. “Excuse me!” squawked the ambassador pushing back at the larger stallion. “What are you doing? Have you lost your mind?” “She passed you a scroll! I saw it traitor! What did you do with it!” “Get your hooves off me!” cried Quizzing, “What are you talking about?” “Stop! both of you!” cried Haymaker pushing between the fighting stallions. “He’s a traitor! He’s on their side! Bloody noble!” yelled Lightning. “Captain! Restrain your paranoid delusions!” cried Quizzing. “I am not a solartic.” “I saw her pass a scroll to you as she left! If you’ve got nothing to fear let me search you!” “And let you plant evidence on me!” spat the ambassador. “I think not! Captain, I have entertained your delusions and general surliness so far, but this is the last straw!” “I will search you,” said Haymaker. “What? You can’t believe him!” cried Quizzing pointing at Lightning. “It’s not my job to believe anyone, but an allegation has been made and we will all feel safer if we can be sure.” he stared at the ambassador. “Unless you have something to hide?” Quizzing sighed. “Very well, do what you must.” Haymaker nodded and stepped forwards, his hooves quickly and methodically making their way over Quizzing’s clothes and coat. “He’s clean,” he confirmed over a few minutes. “Are you sure?” exclaimed Lightning, “I was sure I saw...” “I’m sure, he’s got nothing on him, I can do an internal search if you want.” The ambassador paled. “No,” said Lightning, his head drooping, “I don’t think that will be necessary.” “Good,” said Haymaker, “You can search him yourself if you really want.” “No... no, I am sorry ambassador,” said Lightning not looking all that sorry, his eyes were still narrowed. “Yes, well I guess we should work this all out once we get back to the embassy, but I will expect a full apology when we get there. I do not appreciate my honour being questioned in this way.” With that he held his muzzle in the air and started to trot in the direction of the chariot. “Captain,” said Haymaker icely, “your behaviour will not be forgotten, I will be having words with your superiors when I get back to Equestria!”. With a sigh Lyra moved to follow. This wasn’t good, it looked like their side was falling apart without the Solartics having to do anything, and with the griffins looking increasingly likely to switch sides... there didn’t seem to be anything they could do to stop them. She hoped Raindrops was having a better time on her date that she was here.