//------------------------------//
// Chapter 1 
// Story: The Prince Of Griffonstone 
// by Marezinger Z 
//------------------------------//

A stately young griffon walked the ancient roads that wound through the Hyperborean Mountains. With a pair of cloaked griffons at his sides, he slowly made his way into Griffonstone. As they passed through the dilapidated city, the locals offered them only uncertain and suspicious looks. Paying them no mind, the trio soon found themselves before the crumbling statue of Grover.
“This is even worse than you described, Genevieve.” He glanced back to the griffon at his left. 
“I admit, is has grown worse since the last time I was here.” Genevieve drew back her cloak, her wise eyes set against a backdrop of grey feathers with specks of white that dotted her body like fallen snow. “This will truly be an undertaking.” 
“Perhaps.” He smiled as he returned his gaze to the statue. “But can you think of anything else more worthy of which to dedicate yourself?” 
“You should be careful not to romanticize the situation.” The chocolate colored griffon at his right removed his cloak. “What you’re proposing will take unity and selflessness that I doubt our kind is capable of anymore.” 
“I understand that wholly, Gabriel.” He nodded. “But if we can commit to such an ideal, than I know that they can as well.” Flying up to the top of the statue, he looked out over the city and let out a fierce call that echoed through the streets. The griffons in the area turned their attention to the newcomer, Gilda and Gabby chief among them. 
“Who’s that guy?” Gilda asked. 
“I don’t know.” Gabby looked up at her in confusion. “I’ve never seen him before.”
A general rumble of irritation arose from the gathering griffons as they discussed this brazen visitor. From atop his perch on the statue, he gave them a friendly wave. “Griffons of Griffonstone.” He began. “I understand that I am unknown to you and to be truthful, this is the first time I am laying eyes on my home. It pains me to see what was described to me as a hatchling as the most beautiful of cities, reduced to this broken state. This is no way for a proud griffon to live.” 
“It looks fine to me!” One of the griffons shouted. “What gives you the right to talk about how we live!?” 
“Yeah! Just who do you think you are anyway!?” Another asked angrily. 
“Forgive me.” He lowered his head. “I am Gwyn; the great, great grandson of the fallen King Guto and sole surviving heir to the throne of Griffonstone.” His statement generated a range of reactions in the crowd. Gwyn flew down and landed before them. “I have not come to you as a would-be king who desires power and subjects. I come to you as a griffon, one that desires only to see his home returned to its glory and luster. I have the funds and plans to rebuild our city… but my own two talons are not enough. I need all of you to come together as one once more and do what needs to be done to see my plans to fruition.” The crowd murmured in lukewarm response to his words.
“That’s fine and all.” One of the griffons stepped up. “I’ll help, if the pay is good.” 
Gwyn looked to him with understanding but disappointed eyes. “Pay.” He nodded slowly as he walked over to the griffon. “I have heard all the tales of how Griffonstone fell from grace. How the Idol of Boreas was lost and my ancestor and his family were all but chased from the city in disgrace. How the once strong and united griffons devolved into greedy and petty shadows of their former selves.” Gwyn stared into his eyes. “You seek pay as if that will bring you happiness. Tell me, are you happy? Do you enjoy living in a crumbling home, walking cracked roads that lay lifeless in the midst of non-existent infrastructure?”
“Well… no.” The griffon timidly admitted.
Gwyn slowly turned, panning his gaze over the crowd. “Has a life driven solely by the acquisition of bits brought any of you the slightest semblance of joy or pride? Can any of you look me in the eye and say that this life is ideal?” Every griffon he looked to averted their eyes from his. “What I am offering you is greater than mere bits. I am offering you an improved quality of life, homes you can live comfortably in, stores and shops to sate your every want… a city you can be proud to call home.” 
“I’m with you!” Gabby flew over the crowd and landed in front of him. “I want to see Griffonstone beautiful again, just like in the history books.” 
Gwyn smiled at the energetic girl. “I would be honored to have your assistance, miss…”
“Gabriella.” She reached her talon out to shake. “But you can call me Gabby.” 
“A pleasure, Gabby.” He shook her talon.  
Gabby looked back with a pursed beak. “C’mon Gilda!” 
“Alright, geez.” Gilda flew over as well. 
“Ms. Gilda.” Gwyn tipped his head to her.
“Just Gilda is fine.” She scratched the back of her head, a little embarrassed by the formality. “I’ll help out too, I guess.” 
“Wonderful.” He looked back to the citizenry. “Will another step forward?” 
“How can this be a hard decision?” Gabby flew up and eyed them all harshly. “We finally have a chance to make a change around here, a change we can all benefit from. Stop being such a bunch of gloomy griffons and let’s do our part.” The noise of the crowd began to grow more positive and they all came in closer to Gwyn.
“Can you really do all that stuff you said?” One of them asked. 
“I can.” Gwyn nodded. “With all of you at my side, you have my word that Griffonstone will reclaim its place in the eyes of the world.” 
“Well, then count me in.” She smiled.
“Me too!” Another shouted. 
“Yeah, I’ll help!” Yet another added. 
As Gwyn began personally greeting all the griffons, Genevieve smiled over at Gabriel. “Well, it seems the young Prince has reached them after all.” 
“I only hope they do not let him down.” 
“Ever the pessimist.” Genevieve laughed.
“Do not confuse being pessimistic with being realistic.” Gabriel shifted his hard eyes to her. “They have been enticed by the goal, but they have yet to prove they are truly willing to do what is necessary to reach it.” 
“One step at a time.” Genevieve looked up at the statue of Grover. “Griffonstone was not built in a day, nor will it be restored in one.” 
Gwyn eventually dispersed the crowd with instructions to spread word across the city. He returned to his attendants with Gabby and Gilda at his heel. “That was a fine start.” Gwyn said as he neared them.
“Indeed, well done my Prince.” Genevieve congratulated. 
“Gabby, Gilda, this is Genevieve and Gabriel. They have been at my side since birth.” He introduced. 
“Hello.” Gabby enthusiastically greeted. 
“Uh… hey.” Gilda waved shortly. 
“This pair certainly stands out.” Gwyn noted. “I have chosen them to act as our ambassadors in all this. 
“Ooh, a title.” Gabby clapped her talons together. “I can’t wait to tell Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.” 
“Those are pony names, are they not?” Gwyn asked. “Tell me, do you have an existing rapport with those in Equestria?” 
“I… do I?” Gabby raised her brow as she looked to Gilda. 
“The Prince asks if you are friends with the ponies.” Gabriel shortly clarified. 
“Oh.” Gabby nodded. “I sure am. In fact, I’m a part of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.” She said proudly. 
“That is an organization I am not familiar with.” Gwyn admitted. “What does it entail?”
“Well, the Cutie Mark Crusaders help ponies discover their calling in life so they can earn their cutie mark. They also spread the lessons of friendship wherever they can to those who need it most. I know griffons don’t have cutie marks, but I still try to help them out however I can. That’s how Gilda and I became such good friends.” Gabby latched onto Gilda’s arm.
“Something like that.” Gilda tried unsuccessfully to shake her off. 
“I see.” Gwyn nodded. “That is quite the ambition, Gabby. You will make a fine intermediary between Griffonstone and Equestria.” He looked to Gilda. “What of you, have you had any dealings with the ponies?”
“Yeah.” She sighed. “I uh… have an old friend from flying school, Rainbow Dash. I also know Pinkie Pie, she got me started on trying to teach griffons about friendship.” She let out a long breath. “As you can see… it hasn’t been going so great.” 
“You have taken more steps than most, you should be proud of that.” He commended. “If that is the case, I would ask that you serve as my assistant as I begin orchestrating the rebuilding of the city.” 
“That sounds like a lot.” Gilda admitted. “Maybe they would be better for that.” She pointed at his attendants. 
“That is not our duty.” Gabriel stated. “Our purpose is to watch over the Prince as he moves forward in life and to offer our wisdom and guidance.” 
“Indeed.” Genevieve continued. “This grand plan is the Prince’s ambition and we will let him see it through as he sees fit.” 
“You needn’t doubt yourself, Gilda.” Gwyn said surely. “It may seem daunting now, but your confidence will grow as you see things begin to come together.” 
“Alright.” Gilda begrudgingly accepted. “I’ll do my best.” 
“That is all I ask.” Gwyn grasped her shoulder with a serene smile. “Now, let us see the castle.” The five of them flew to the decaying manor, dropping through a hole in the roof and landing in the ruined throne room. 
“Disgraceful.” Gabriel said bitterly. “Is it any wonder that griffons are looked down upon?” 
Gwyn went to the throne and ran a single digit over the wooden arm; the dust was so thick it left the tip solid grey. “Gilda?” Gwyn called. “Were you me, what would you do with this place?” 
Gilda shrugged. “Honestly, I’d tear it down.” She saw Gabriel give her a sharp glare. “What? This place is an eyesore.” She defended her position. “All it does is sit here and remind us of how crappy our lives are and how good it used to be, like rubbing salt in a wound.” 
“I agree.” Gwyn nodded.
“You… do?” Gilda asked.
“Yes. You are right, this building stands only as a monument to the failings of the past.” He turned back to them. “But that does not mean it is without value. I will tear it down, and use its pieces to start rebuilding the homes of the griffons.” 
“That is a sound decision, my Prince.” Genevieve agreed. “That will deal with two problems at once, as well as give the griffons something both symbolic and tangible to inspire them.” 
“How are we supposed to do all that?” Gabby asked. “I mean, I sure don’t know anything about construction. I’m a mail carrier.” 
“I already have plans for that.” Gwyn assured. “I did not come here unprepared.” A light filled his eyes as he began pacing the room, his mind calculating a series of moves that would put everything in motion. “Please allow me some time to consider things.” He went to Gilda’s side. “Gilda, in the meantime I want you to relay our intent to the citizens. Let them know that I am working as you speak and will deliver a formal plan to them soon.” 
“Okay.” Gilda nodded.
“Gabby.” He turned to her. “I will draft a letter that I need you to deliver to the royal sisters in Canterlot.” 
“Now that I can do.” She said with a smile. 
“Genevieve, Gabriel, can you find a room that is intact enough for us to remain in for the time being and see it habitable?” 
“Of course, my Prince.” Genevieve assured with a bow. 
“Thank you.” Gwyn took to the air. “Come Gabby, I will pen the letter so you can be on your way at first light.” 
“Sure.” Gabby happily flew alongside him as they went to secure a pen and scroll. 



The following morning, Gabby set out for Canterlot; her already boundless energy pushed even further by her excitement. As she glided into the city she landed before the castle guards and requested entry. Letting her pass, she hurried along to the throne room where Celestia and Luna were discussing upcoming events. 
The guard at the door entered and bowed. “Your majesties, a messenger has a letter for you from Griffonstone.” He detailed. 
“Griffonstone?” Celestia repeated in surprise. “See them in.” 
“At once.” He returned to the door and held it open. 
“Princess Celestia, Princess Luna.” Gabby flew in and skidded to halt in front the thrones. “Hello.” She quickly bowed. 
“Hello.” Celestia motioned for her to rise. “You bring word from Griffonstone?”
“Yes.” She offered up the bound scroll. 
Celestia took it with her magic, the ribbon slid off and the scroll unfurled as it drifted in the air towards her. “Royal sisters.” She read. “My name is Gwyn, last heir to the throne of Griffonstone.” 
“My word.” Luna got closer to see the letter for herself. “I had thought the royal line of Griffonstone lost to the ages.” 
“As did I.” She read further. “It says that he is rebuilding Griffonstone and seeks to meet with us to propose a treaty of trade deals and contracts in order to aid the effort and bring unity to our kinds.” She looked to Gabby. “Is he truly of royal blood?” 
“He says so.” Gabby scratched her head. “He has servants and talks really fancy, that seems pretty royal to me.” She shrugged innocently. “He’s really nice though and he’s already got some amazing ideas. He even asked me to personally help out.” 
“I see.” Celestia turned to her sister. “He seems cordial enough.”
“We can at least meet with him, I see no harm in that.” 
“Very well.” Celestia returned her attention to Gabby. “Send him our regards and let him know that we would be happy to discuss this further. Have him send us a time in which he would like to assemble.” 
“Really?” Gabby beamed. “Great, I’ll get back there ASAP and let him know the good news.” Without formality she flew out the room, nearly clipping the guard in the head as she rushed through the door. 
“A griffon Prince.” Luna said thoughtfully. “Griffonstone has practically laid in ruin for nearly two centuries, do you think it possible that he can rebuild it?”
“Nothing is impossible.” Celestia said with a smile. “If he is willing to try and his methods are sound, then I think we should certainly approach this with an open mind.” She took up a quill and scroll. “I will have to see to some preparations.” 



While Gabby was seeing to her task, Gilda set about her own. She went through the city, calling a meeting in the square so she could let them know what was going on. The typically flippant griffons gathered in interest to hear what their Prince apparent had in store. Gilda waited as patiently as she could while they circled around her. 
“Alright, listen up.” Gilda said with her usual roughness. “Prince Gwyn is putting me in charge of keeping things organized around here and keeping you all up updated. Right now, he plans on meeting with the Princesses in Canterlot to set up some labor contracts for reconstruction projects. First item on the list is the castle.”
“Heh, that figures.” One of the griffons scoffed. 
“Shut up and let me finish!” Gilda barked. “He’s knocking it down.” General gasps came from the masses. “Yeah, that’s right.” She continued. “He plans on using all the stone, wood and steel he can recycle from it to start fixing up our homes.” The griffons looked to each other with pleasant surprise. “Any of you with any kind of experience in construction, stone work, carpentry or design need to step up and lend a talon to the effort. The rest of you, if you know any griffons outside of Griffonstone, tell them to get their feathered butts back here and help out too.” She sighed. “That’s it for now, he said he’ll have something more detailed for all of you to see soon.” Gilda lifted off and flew back towards the castle.  
Gwyn spent the day in isolation working out his strategies, sketching more concepts and drafting the proposals that he would present to the Equestrian royalty. Not stopping to even eat, it was not until the afternoon when Gabby returned that he pulled his head up from his work. 
“Prince.” Gabriel opened the door. “The hyper one has returned from her errand.” 
“Wonderful.” Gwyn rubbed his strained eyes. “Please let her in.” 
Gabriel pushed the door open further and Gabby entered. “Gwyn.” 
“Prince Gwyn.” Gabriel reminded. 
“Gabriel, please.” Gwyn shook his head. “It is alright.” With an unsettled grumble Gabriel left them. “What news do you have?”
“Princesses Celestia and Luna agreed to meet you, they said to just let them know when.” She excitedly reported. 
“Excellent.” He smiled as he stretched. 
“What are you working on?” Gabby went to the table.
“Everything.” He admitted with a laugh.
“Wow!” She looked over a sketch he made, it showed a breathtaking redesign for the castle. “This is beautiful.” 
“It will be, once it is a reality and not merely the inked dreams of a lone griffon.” He looked down at it with her. “I must present all of this to the city tomorrow; while I am occupied with that, travel to Canterlot once more and tell the Princesses that we will be there the following day.” 
“Will do.” Her stomach growled as she spoke. 
“It seems in our excitement we have both neglected ourselves.” Gwyn chuckled. “Come, let us eat before we give out altogether.” 
After eating, Gabby and Gilda returned to their homes for the evening while Genevieve convinced Gwyn to cease his work for the day as she did not want him to overexert. The following morning saw Gabby off to Canterlot again to relay the meeting date while Gwyn and Gilda went into the city to further detail his plans and intentions for Griffonstone. Gilda once more gathered the citizens to the square where Gwyn awaited their arrival. 
“Get in close and keep your beaks shut till the end of the presentation.” Gilda ordered as the griffons assembled. 
“You certainly have your way with audiences.” Gwyn laughed as she landed beside him. 
“Eh, it’s what I do.” She said plainly. 
“My brothers and sisters.” Gwyn gestured out to them. “I thank you for coming, as promised I will impart to you my desires for Griffonstone and how I intend to see them done. But first, I have something I wish you all to see.” He unfurled a giant piece of parchment on which was drawn a detailed concept of an ideal Griffonstone. Handing it to Gilda, she flew up and let it hang like a flag so they could get a better look. “I drew this when I was a still a fledgling. I tell you this so that you know how serious I am about not just this city, but all of you.” The griffons were amazed by the beautiful work. “This is what we can have for ourselves, but to reach this goal we will all need to put in the work. I know that such a feat seems impossible, but I have no intention of asking you to do it yourselves. I will be traveling to Canterlot tomorrow to meet with the Princesses in hopes of having them help back this undertaking. With aid from Equestria, we can begin the foundation work that will lead to this end.” He pointed up at the drawing. “As Gilda has already told you, my first aim is to bring down the castle and use the raw materials to get things started. We will begin with your homes and the roads both in and outside the city. Hard workers need soft beds and a warm hearth, both of which you shall have; and with the roads repaired we can move in the larger equipment necessary for the bigger projects. Every capable griffon will need to assist in the work. I know that after so long, that may not sound enticing to many of you; but I would not ask any griffon to do something I would not do myself. I will be working at your sides the entire time, of that you have my solemn vow.” The griffons actually began to applaud at the Prince’s speech. Seeing and hearing something concrete rallied them further and they truly started to feel that this could be a reality for them. Gwyn promised to return from Canterlot with even more good news and left them for the remainder of the day.