A thousand years ago Luna left for parts unknown and for all that time Celestia has been searching desperately to find her beloved sister. Yet she may need to put her search aside as the Griffons have returned and are demanding a parlay.
Princess Luna has made a choice. When it seems that ponies shun her a dream draws her to the east. So she has left. She left behind everything. Her sister, Her title, Her old life. all this in search of a dream that resonates with her. The Moon rises and a new era is on it's way for better or for worse when 1000 years pass things may have changed a lot.
Story arcs Arc 1: All hail the Midnight Empress Status: in progress
Princess Luna had tried, every night the sky was different, more beautiful than the last, but no one cared they either slept through it or resented it.
The midnight blue alicorn overlooked her balcony and sighed morosely.
"Tis not fair that our dear sister gets to revel in the love of her subjects." Luna began. "While we are shunned and left alone."
Luna returned to her room and lay down on her bed.
"We have tried to show our love." Luna whispered. "yet we are ignored."
The door to her room creaked open and a white alicorn entered.
"Luna?" the alicorn whispered.
"Tia, it's late why are thou not in thine bed?" Luna asked.
"The outer sentries alerted me that you were staring out mournfully on your balcony just like you have been for the last few nights." Celestia answered. "I'm worried about you sister."
Luna merely looked away and lay her head down on her bed. Celestia sighed, she knew exactly why Luna was like this, few of her ponies had true reverence for the night. yes some had respect for it but true reverence for the night. Celestia had never heard of a pony in the land that had at one point bowed their head and said "Thank you Luna for this wonderful sky and this beautiful night." no too many the night was only looked forward too for curling up and sleeping to rejuvenate the body for the next day. again she sighed a she entered her room and curled up on her bed to drift off into sleep.
"Quite the Hypocrite I am." Celestia whispered in irritation. "Here I lay to sleep for the night while I think ill of other ponies for doing the same."
Yet another sigh.
"I hope you find somepony who appreciates your night Luna." Celestia whispered as she looked out her glass doors of her balcony towards the night sky. "As much as I do."
Celestia yawned and let sleep take her.
Luna decided to wander the gardens. Perhaps to clear her mind or maybe to just get away, she honestly did not know. but she did know that it was not helping. Her mind was still clouded with doubtful thoughts.
"Does anyone appreciate my night as more then just a time for rest?" Luna asked no one in particular before whispering. "One way to find out."
Luna closed her eyes and projected her astral form across the dreams of the ponies. There were a few that gave her hope notably a sore few but many seemed to dream about the sun or there dreams were based during the day. however there was a dream that caught her attention, a far off dream one that showed a grand kingdom cloaked in a glorious night and ruled by-
"You highness?"
Luna turned to see one of Celestia's many guards behind her. the guard noticed that he had surprised her and bowed.
"Forgive me for not announcing my presence, I just saw you out here alone."
Luna dismissed the guards worry.
"We are fine dutiful guardspony, but your concern is noted and I am grateful." Luna stated.
"Why are you out here princess, should you not be at the night court?"
Luna shook her head at the guards question.
"No one comes to the night court." Luna answered mournfully.
"That can't be true I swear tha-."
"No loyal guard." Luna interupted. "I'm lucky if the perimeter guard patrol even acknowledges me as they pass by."
The guard merely turned away.
"I'm sorry princess."
Luna did not reply. she just looked towards the east towards the dream she had found.
"I will find the ones who loved the night." Luna murmured.
She returned to the castle and to her room to leave Celestia a note to tell of her departure and reassure her that nothing was wrong. Once that was done she left to her balcony.
"I shall be back soon sister."
With that Luna spread her wings and took off towards the east still following the dream's call.
Luna should have known something was amiss much earlier. no ponies lived this far, this was outside her sister's empire, it was her's too, after all it was a diarch. But back to the situation at hand. She knew she was now outside Equestria's borders she was now in the far east, beyond ponykinds reach.
"There were other's who lived this far out." Luna muttered. "But who?"
Pain. that's the next thing Luna felt. She was falling. Then darkness.
"Is she awake yet?" A voice asked.
Luna opened her eyes, her vision was blurred. two figures were in view.
"She would have been awake by know if you had not taken her out of the sky you moron." the left figure stated.
"Sorry." the voice from before which must have come from somepony outside of her view at the moment replied.
Her vision began to clear and she realized that the term somepony was wrong. After all these were Griffon and not Ponies.
"Oh shes awake." the Griffon to her right stated.
Luna turned to the Left and saw a black griffon wearing patchwork leather armor.
"Forgive me for my comrade's attack on you, glorious goddess of the moon." The Griffon said as he bowed.
Luna merely gazed in suprise at this action.
"Why would'st thou bow to me I am not of your kin?" Luna asked.
"Your nights grant us opportunity which the day steals from us." The griffon answered.
"Thieves and brigands." Luna hissed.
The griffon shook his head.
"No your highness, we are revolutionaries." The Griffon stated. "Our tyrant king feeds his greed and leaves us to suffer, Griffonstone lies in ruins and famine, disease, crime all run rampant in our once glorious kingdom."
Luna put a hoof to her muzzle.
"Our people are starving and right now we don't have the strength to mount a counter attack." The black griffon whimpered. "setback after setback have left us divided, leaderless."
Luna stamped her hoof in anger.
"If your kin are in need you should be helping them not fighting among yourselves like diamond dogs!" Luna shouted.
"Don't you get it." The Griffon growled. "Our greed is taking root again each wants to be leader."
"Then measure must be taken." Luna hissed. "You must make them listen."
The Griffon shook his head and lowered it.
"I am not a leader." He whispered before lifting his head his eyes holding a devious glint. "But you they will bow to, our moon goddess."
Luna actually took a step back.
"We-We could not possibly take such a post." Luna stated.
"But you can, they will listen to you." The Griffon stated before turning and motioning for her to follow.
Luna followed the griffon leaving the other two sitting there staring at each other in confusion. Their walk took them through tunnels made of dirt and supported by wooden supports. Luna surmised that they were in an old mine shaft. But the room the entered was brick and at the far end was a glorious purple banner with 3 claw marks with a crescent moon in the background on it for an emblem. Her wonder of the banner and room were disturbed when she finally noticed the noisy bickering of the large amount of griffons in the room, it did not take super hearing for Luna to understand what they were all arguing about.
"ATTENTION!" The black griffon yelled.
No one turned and the black griffon tried again, and again, aaannnddd again. Until Luna put a hoof on his shoulder and whispered for him to over his ears. Twas time for Luna's special attack.
"SILENCE!" She screamed in her well respected and feared Royal Canterlot Voice.
All the Griffons turned.
"I came here when one of you called upon me for help." Luna stated, it was a lie, maybe, perhaps the dream was a call for help. "And here I find that instead of heroic Griffons ready to fight for their kin, I find greedy cowards fighting among themselves to the point where the sacrifice of your dead leader would mean nothing!"
All Griffons stopped and turned to each other their eyes filled with sorrow, they began exchanging unspoken apologies.
"Let Your Heroic leader not die in vain but become a Martyr to your cause." Luna began again. "Look inside yourselves you know one among you holds the traits of a leader you need just give them the support they need and then again you can march to liberate your kin and your homeland."
"She's right." A Griffon stated as she approached.
Luna took note of her unique traits. first off her feathers were an sleek obsidian except for the ones on her belly which were a silver like white. additionally where usually Griffons had the back of a lion she had the back of a snow leopard.
"We are at your command." The Griffoness bowed. "Your highness."
Luna sighed when she noticed that all griffons had begin to bow to her.
"Very well, I shall help you usher in a grand era for the griffon's." Luna said. "We shall topple the tyrannical regime of King Goldwings and usher in a new age."
"Welcome to the Black Talons, Luna." the Griffoness stated.
The following months were not much to talk about. Covert strikes on soft and hard targets, guerrilla warfare, and of course changing the hearts and minds of a shattered people. all in all with Luna on their side things went pretty well. She had learned that the snow leopard griffon was from a Family referred to as the Clan Evernight they were an old family devoted to the ancient griffon prosperity an would do anything to see it back thus they began this rebellion.
And now it has all come to this. The Assault on Griffonstone Castle. The town looked quite sad and run down considering it's history and the part it played after the sacking of the original capital of the Griffons during their war with the Minotaurs, The only notable icon was the Tyrants stone castle that sat in the middle of the town at the very peak of the mountain it inhabited.
The size of the rebellion had grown unbelievably with the displaced and unhappy villages pledging their support. The attack would be straight forward the town surrounding Goldwing's castle was undefended due to him pulling back his guard to protect him and most likely the people were ready to revolt. The guard was questioning him and desertions have already happened. Luna was actually wondering whether they should actually attack or just sit outside and wait for his own men to drag him out and surrender.
(I cannot write an epic battle for this part it's not supposed to be epic anyways Goldwings is unimportant and is just there to set the story.)
The battle itself was short they passed through the town some griffons jumped the walls and knocked out the sentries. The castle was the same too, with disgruntled guards that either fought pathetically or just gave up. The throne room however was a grand place with gold laden walls and treasure stacked all around the room. The doors kicked open and Luna along with many Griffons both rebel and even peasants walked in to find Goldwings alone on his throne. He was quite regular for a king and matching his status as a greedy king he was quite overweight. He tried to keep a calm demeanor but Luna knew he was terrified.
"alright you beat me." He said bowing low and gracelessly.
The griffons a gazed at him in disgust. Some moved to block the exits as he decided to try and leave.
"You are not going anywhere." Evernight shrieked. "When a new leader takes the throne you will be judged. but for now you will go to the dungeons."
Two guards grabbed him and dragged the fat griffon off despite his protests. Luna turned towards the throne room and motioned for the peasants to gather and disperse to gold.
"Now we must find a suitable ruler." Luna stated.
The other griffon sighed.
"We've already talked about this." Evernight began. "Luna by right of triumph and as witnesses here we declare you Queen of the rising Order of the Night!"
Luna turned around in surprise and noticed that all the Griffons in the room had bowed to her. Luna nodded and smiled.
"Very well my subjects I will endeavor to be a gracious ruler and bring the Griffons back to their former glory." Luna declared.
The Griffons cheered.
1000 years later
A white Griffoness soared across the Equestrian skies. her flight pattern was slightly erratic.
"Ugh, Could they have not given me better landmarks to identify?" She asked herself. "A giant tree library in the center of a cozy hamlet like i am going t-."
Said Cozy little hamlet appeared. and the Griffon smirked before realization hit her.
"Crap, I went the wrong direction, Ponyville is South west of Canterlot." The Griffoness groaned. "Which mean in need to go north-ea-"
"Watch out!" A rainbow zoomed by and nearly knocked the Griffoness out of the sky.
"Sorry." called a tomboyish voice.
The Griffoness turned around and glared at a teal Pegasus with a rainbow coloured mane and tail.
"Watch it dweeb!" The Griffoness shrieked.
"Well excuse me princess." The Pony replied.
The Griffoness was ready to go again but then remembered her mission.
"Listen I'm...I'm sorry, I'm lost right now." the Griffoness stated.
"Where you going?" The Pony asked.
"Canterlot."
The Pony merely pointed to the nearby mountain and the Griffoness turned to see the distant outline of a castle on it's side and face-taloned.
"Thanks...um?"
"Rainbow dash!" The pony answered. "You?"
"Gilda." The Griffoness replied.
Rainbow Dash took off again leaving Gilda to fly towards Canterlot where she was stopped at the gates by the guards where no matter what she said she had wait for approval.
Navigating the winding streets of Canterlot due to a no fly rule. Unhelpful and suspicious guards. Setting up a meeting and of course more guard based delays.
"Bloody racists." Gilda growled as she finally entered Celestia's Throne room. Lo and behold there she was smiling at Gilda.
"I must admit I am surprised when my attendant told me that a Griffon had arrived." Celestia stated. "What do I owe the pleasure of your company it's been too long since I heard from your kind."
Gilda merely pulled out the letter she was given and held it out while lowering her head.
"Honorable Princess Celestia, Our Empress wishes to rekindle the ancient yet broken ties that our kingdoms once held." Gilda said.
Celestia stopped and gave Gilda a baffled look before taking the letter and reading it she frowned when she saw the seal of the Black Claws.
"I don't recognize the seal." Celestia stated.
"for the last thousand years a new monarch has taken the throne away from the greedy king goldwings."
"Moltingage?" Celestia asked in confusion. "Didn't know he was that arrogant."
Celestia took the letter and begun to read it.
Dearest Princess Celestia.
I hope this letter find you in good health. I am unaware of your knowledge on current Griffon affairs so this may come as a surprise but for the last thousand years the empire has been rebuilding from the tyrannical reign of a rather poor ruler. However we have recently regained our past glory and our grand Empress has requested to reestablish our ancient ties as allies.
We ask Humbly for you to come to Griffonstone to discuss the futures of both species. However should it be too uncomfortable for you to enter the heart of our Empire so soon we shall arrange to convene talks in Canterlot or a location in between.
Please send your reply back with Noble Messenger Gilda.
Sincerely Aleron Lightcrest Imperial Envoy and Diplomatic Advisory.
Celestia rolled up the note and turned to Gilda.
"I will be back with my reply in a moment." Celestia stated before turning to the royal guard captain who was in the room. "Captain Armor."
"Yes my princess?" Armor replied.
"Please prepare me a small escort for my trip to Griffonstone."
The royal guard Captain looked surprised but nodded and left the throne room. meanwhile Gilda was also surprised. But Celestia gave her no time to reply as she wrote her lettered reply and handed it to Gilda who took it and left quickly. Celestia then decided it was time to visit her pupil.
Lunar star charts, various maps of Equestria, and of course books. They were scattered all across the room of the lavender furred unicorn known as Twilight Sparkle. Celestia had given her a very specific task to do at her leisure. Find Princess Luna. Twilight could see it in her teacher, whenever Luna was brought up sorrow would flash in her eyes, when she was alone she cried for her sister, for few understood the sun goddess as much as her sibling. It got worse the longer her disappearance went on in fact Celestia became prone to snapping, doubly so when servants and guards whined about the night. But most understood the why she did it. Luna had left with only a note with a very poor excuse. And so currently Twilight was engaged in a bit of tome scouting
"I found a few more books pertaining to the Issue twilight." A certain baby dragon replied.
"Thanks Spike." Twilight replied.
The door was suddenly opened and Celestia walked into the Hybrid bedroom/observatory/library.
"Princess." Twilight gasped. "You are usually quite busy at this time."
Celestia merely laughed.
"Alas it seems all these menial princess things will be on hold for a while." Celestia stated. "I suggest you grab some essentials, we are heading for Griffonstone."
Twilight's eyes widened.
"Griffonstone?" Twilight asked. "Why?"
"Diplomatic reasons." Celestia answered. "I was going to send you to Ponyville to watch over the Summer Sun Celebration, but that can wait."
"But what about my investigations into Luna's disppearance?"
Twilight actually went quite afterwards but noticed that instead of a sad look Celestia looked quite hopeful.
"Remember that Luna went east and the Griffon kingdom is east." Celestia stated. "They may at least know where she went."
In a few moments Twilight, Spike and Celestia were in the courtyard where a situation was likely to develop.
"Shining." Celestia began. "I said a small escort not my entire castle garrison."
True to what Celestia said Twilight could see that Her brother had in fact gathered a lot of guardsponies.
"Celestia." Shining began.
"No Captain armor how would you like it if the Griffon Empress brought an entire regiment with her should she visit?" Celestia asked. "You would be suspicious, so how do you think she would feel if we do the same, Six guards and you plus your sister here."
Shining reluctantly nodded and dismissed all but six of the guards.
A long dull train ride later they had gotten off at the Griffonstone train station. where they were greeted by two Griffons in black armor. the armor itself put the pony royal guards to shame. Full set with visor's covering the eyes but what Celestia noticed most was the crescent moon symbol on the chest of the armor. the Two Griffon's bowed.
"Greetings Princess Celestia, We have been chosen to escort you to Eclipse Precipice." One of the griffons stated.
Celestia nodded and the guards turned and motioned for the group to follow. Celestia had noted that the worn roads have recently been repaired and new paths were made.
"With our recent expansion and the outburst of new towns around we have decided to make new roads and repair the old ones." One of the griffon stated.
"So what is the Eclipse Precipice?" Shining asked.
"The castle the replaced the old goldwing castle." The other griffon answered. "The New castle was built in her honor."
"Her? The Empress you mean?" Twilight asked.
"Yes don't worry you will meet her soon." The first Griffon answered.
The group came to the end of the incline and gasped. in the distance was Griffonstone. it had been more than a thousand years since Celestia had seen it and it was way different. The mountain that the town was built on had changed little, but the run down shacks that would have usually surrounded the mountain were now replaced with expertly crafted houses and even pathways allowing navigation around the mountain. there was even a Wall at the base of the mountain. But what caught Celestia's attention was what was at the top of the mountain. A massive black Castle that was both beautiful and intimidating. But Celestia had seen such a castle before. In her deepest nightmares, in these dreams though such a castle replaced the ruins of her old castle, and from there Luna would march with an army of Shadow beings upon Canterlot. Celestia closed her eyes and willed the memories of the dream away. Luna was not evil she was just lost.
"I will find you sister." Celestia said to herself.
The two Griffon soldiers heard her and smirked at each other before nodding to a nearby structure. Which housed an Airship.
"Normally we would just fly directly there." One of the griffon soldiers stated before nodding to the Unicorns among the group. "Considering we don't all have wings we will take an airship."
"Always wanted to ride one of these." Twilight chimed.
The group boarded the rugged Airship after being cheerfully welcomed by it's Griffon captain who immediately took them to the lowest district which circled the mountain.
"Wish I could take ya further but these guys haven't given me permits to dock in the upper level airship docks." The captain stated as they left the ship. "Military authorization and all that."
The group took some time to take in the sight's of the new Griffonstone. The houses had a very homely look to them. The streets were clean and surprisingly quiet except for patrols of Griffon guard's wearing different armor than the two accompanying the group.
"Odd you'd think for a major city like this there would be a lot more activity." One of Celestia's Pegasus guard's stated. "And those soldier's why the different uniform.?"
"Tonight is Liberation Night and everygryph loves that celebration a lot, it's very active." One of the soldier's replied. "And those Gryphs are Town watch, We are Imperial Talons, 4th division to be exact."
The chat had ended when they arrived at the castle. Once again more waiting. finally they were inside and able to get a good look at the decor. Celestia was quite unerved. Everything about the castle seemed to give off reverence to the night and the moon. the castles colours were black and various shades of blue and purple along with a lot of banner with symbols that Celestia realized look too much like her dear sister's cutie mark.
Have you touched these being's Luna, Have you met them for they seem to revere you, or at least your night.
Now they were navigating the castle towards the throne room which was quite visible in the hall they were in for it's massive Obsidian coloured doors. As they approached the two guards at the door bowed and pulled open the door revealing the glorious throne room. It looked like a reflection of her own in Canterlot only if it was catered to Luna instead of her. Celestia slowly trotted into the center of the room in a dreamlike state as she admired the rooms design.
"I wish you could see this my sister, these being's seem to revere your night." Celestia said. "I wish you could witness this with me, Luna."
Twilight had gasped behind her.
"I have already witnessed it."
Celestia's eyes widened and she turned around to come face to face with her long lost sister. Luna the Alicorn of the Night.
Celestia stood there for a moment in complete shock before she regained her senses and examined the midnight blue Alicorn in front of her. She surprisingly wore armor, it was almost a full suit as well much like the griffon soldiers however this one had elegant silver trimming, additionally the helmet was replaced by a silver crown. She was also taller than before being almost Celestia's height. The most distinguishing feature however was a scar across the her muzzle, and her eyes showed that her spirit had been hardened by events that had taken place over the thousand years. Yet here she was Princess Luna, The younger of the two sisters.
"LUNA!" Celestia cried as she moved to embrace her sister.
In normal circumstances Luna would have been knocked over by her sisters charge, But Luna took it in stride and while she was pushed back she remained upright while embracing her older sister.
"It's been too long Tia." Luna whispered as she began rubbing her hoof on Celestia's back.
"Why did you leave?" Celestia asked as she actually cried into her sister' shoulder.
Luna sighed and bit her tongue. She had planned this moment for years but this was different, here was the elder sister crying on her shoulder.
"I felt alone." Luna stated. "The night, few of your ponies cared for it, they shunned me."
Celestia looked towards her sister in sorrow.
"We could have talked." Celestia balked. "I would have done anything for you, but all you left was a note which explained little and you said you would return."
Luna looked away from her sister in shame.
"I had though I would, That night we talked I left for the gardens, I looked among the dreams of your kingdom and found so little." Luna stated as she close her eyes and lowered her head.
Celestia was feeling some shame now.
"A dream to the east called to me, it showed a glorious kingdom under the moon." Luna began. "So I flew off and stumbled upon the griffons in the midst of a rebellion against a disgusting pig of a king."
Luna began to tell the story the rather short rebellion following her arrival all the way to just before she decided to invite Celestia.
"-So once we had the Economy stabilized we decided to from a guild to help with keeping said economy stable and encourage fair business." Luna explained her eyes twinkling with Joy. "Of course many also wanted to ensure they were treated fairly at work and so we had unions made as well, not that there really is a need as many of the leaders of our industry did not want to invoke my ire lest i bring the mailed hoof down on them."
Celestia recoiled a bit.
"You would strike your citizens?" Celestia asked in disbelief.
Luna shook her head.
"No sister I am not a cruel mare like that." Luna answered. "by mailed hoof i mean my loyal guard who would relieve them of their position and bring them before a select group of individuals who represent the rights of the workers."
Celestia gave a please hum.
"You have changed a lot Luna." She chimed. "Was it the rise to Empress or being around the Griffons?"
"Both......I think?" Luna answered but began to drift off perplexed. "I mean I'm not really sure, Griffons are so different from Ponies and this position I'm in, it came so suddenly."
Celestia laughed as her sister became flustered.
"Change is good dear sister!" Celestia said with a smile before frowning and whispering. "Just don't lose who you are."
Luna had heard her though and understood the reason behind such a line.
"I promised you I won't ." Luna replied in a sorrowful whisper. "To much has been built here for me to throw away in the name of petty revenge on ponies who were none the wiser."
Luna's demeanor changed quickly after that back to the cheerful little sister Celestia remembered as she gazed out-side and smiled.
"It's almost time dear sister for the moon to rise." Luna chimed. "So let's get acquainted with your friends, then we can go about our duties."
Celestia nodded then turned to Twilight (And Spike he's been there the whole time just for got to mention him my bad.), Shining armor and their escort.
She pointed to Twilight and spike first and both waved while happily smiling. "Hello your highness." Both said as Twilight bowed.
"This is my Student Twilight Sparkle, she is an exceptional unicorn with great potential, and the Dragon is her assistant." Celestia stated.
She pointed to Shining Armor next.
"This is the Captain of my Royal Guard, Shining Armor." Celestia continued while Shining Armor bowed his head. "He is also Twilight's older brother."
Luna nodded to the both of them and then to the pony guards before turning back to her sister.
"I am unsure if the last thousand years have affected your taste in a celebration but tonight is going to be grand." Luna chimed. "Perhaps you would like to join me dear sister on a tour through town?"
"That sounds delightful Luna." Celestia replied with a smile.
"First though I should get you some rooms." Luna stated as she turned to Twilight Sparkle. "Tell me Twilight what is one of your favorite studies?"
"Astronomy." Twilight answered.
"Lucky for you than that there is an astronomy tower in my castle and it has rooms open." Luna replied. "I will show you the way to the tower as me and Celestia will be heading that way to raise the moon."
Luna than turned to Shining Armor.
"Meanwhile why don't you and your Ponies go to the castle barracks and introduce yourselves to my own guards." Luna suggested. "Get to know each other."
Shining armor nods. "Sounds like a plan your highness."
Luna nodded before looking towards the hall.
"Shadow, Lyn!" She called.
The door's leading to the hall opened and two armored Griffons walked in. The first was male and wore a midnight blue set of armor complete with a helmet masking his eyes,. However what few gaps there were in the armor at the joints showed that he was a rare snow leopard variant of the Griffon race, while his feathers were black. The Griffoness however was a Light Grey Griffon breed with grey feathers and wore a lighter Variant of the armor that seemed to come with a cloak and hood added under the plates.
"Commander Shadow Evernight, Reporting for assignment." The Male Griffon answered with an accompanying bow.
"Lieutenant Lyn Darkblade, Awaiting your Command, My Queen." The Griffoness stated with a salute.
Luna nodded to the both of them before pointing to Shining Armor.
"My Loyal protectors will you please escort Captain Shining Armor and his cohorts to the barracks and help them get acquainted with our Castle Guard." Luna ordered quite politely.
"By your command." Both Griffons said as the bowed to their empress before turning to Shining and speaking in sync. "Please follow us."
Shining nodded and followed the two Griffons.
"So you two are-?" Shining armor began before being cut off by an almost immediate answer.
"I'm commander of the Lunar Claws, Luna's devoted bodyguard." Shadow answered. "And the Griffoness is both my second in command and a very common, very annoying distraction."
Shining turned to Lyn who giggled.
"You know you can't get enough of me." Lyn stated with as much of a smirk as she could considering her beak.
"No I cannot." Shadow replied as he just shook his head.
Shining could only smile as he though back too a certain pink Alicorn back home. His grinning was then stopped when Shadow spoke up again.
"Now Griffons handle things differently here than you ponies do." He began. "If you begin an argument Griffon soldier he may challenge you to a spar in the barracks ring, No open fighting."
The Pony guards nodded.
"Oh and we are an extremely prideful group so if you insult us, whether directly or indirectly expect retribution." Shadow continued. "Whether that be a Gauntlet to the muzzle or a challenge is to be determined by them, any questions?"
"Are we going to be trapped in the castle all night or will we get to see this.....Liberation night celebration?" One of the Ponies asked.
"We are just introducing you too the soldiers here to get you more well acquainted, then we will set up rooms near the princess for you and you all can prep to explore the town tonight." Lyn answered. "now we are almost there so put on your smiles, after all they say diplomacy is the art of being among those you hate."
"We constructed this tower specifically to allow a better view of the entire city, a useful vantage point and a great place to watch the sky." Luna stated as the group consisting of Herself, Celestia, Twilight and Spike climbed the large circular staircase of the tower. "I usually go to the Lunar Spire to raise the moon however, your stop is here twilight."
Their ascent had ended in a small rotund consisting of four doors spread equally apart the circles the opposing half of the room than they entered. Luna pointed to the left most door and Twilight and Spike walked into it while the princesses left through the right most door.
As Twilight had expected the observatory carried the Lunar theme the rest of the castle did, however the center of the room was host to a rather decorative circular floor tiling which showed the various cycles of the moon and what they represent being written just under their cycle. The roof held and odd Casing at the top of it that probably held something, but its contents eluded her. Twilight then looked towards the balcony where a rather normal Normal Telescope stood and staring into was a young black furred Alicorn who's mane was eerily similar to Luna's Stary Mane, the young mare even had the same cutie mark as Luna. The mare quickly turned and smirked when she saw twilight.
"Um Hello?" Twilight asked cautiously.
The Alicorn was in front of her in an instant, she did not trot over either she just teleported.
"Hello~." The Alicorn chimed. "I.....am Nightmare Moon, You?"
"I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight replied. "And this is my assistant Spike."
The Baby Dragon waved from his position on Twilight's back.
"A Pleasure." Nightmare Moon stated before turning back to the telescope and this time she merely walked to it. "I'm guessing mother brought you up here."
"Yes she did." Twilight replied. "You are Luna's daughter right?"
"Yep!" Nightmare chimed.
Twilight had never heard of Luna having somepony special, There was never a word spoken.
"Who's your father?" Twilight asked carefully in case she brought up a sore topic.
"Don't have one." Nightmare replied still in her cheerful tone. "I wasn't born like a pony, nor was I hatched like a Griffon, I just sort of came to be."
"How?" Twilight asked.
"Not my story to tell, If affected my mother more than me." Nightmare answered.
"I understand."
Nightmare went back to gazing at the stars through the small telescope and writing down notes in a notebook she had with her. Twilight decided to look around the Observatory.
The place was well organised with shelves holding starcharts, Books about constellations among many other curious star based books. Twilight noticed that there were other books not having anything remotely to do with stars as well.
"This doubles as your own library?" Twilight asked.
"Yeah." Nightmare answered. "Oh hey pull the lever near the door."
Twilight turned back to the door and noticed two silver lever's built into the wall.
"Is it safe?" Twilight asked.
"It activates the Primary Telescope." Nightmare replied. "Pull tha levah!"
Twilight pulled the lever down. and was soaked by water, Nightmare fell over laughing.
"Wrong Levah." Nightmare cried between fits of laughter.
Twilight merely groaned, as did Spike who was still on Twilight's back and was therefor soaked as well. Twilight then pulled the other lever which opened the odd casing on the roof and down came a large telescope nestled in a Gyroscope that held numerous lenses.
"As you can see the Gyroscope rotates to allow different zoom settings." Nightmare stated.
"Should the Observatory not be at the top though?" Twilight asked. "So that it can rotate around."
"Did my mom call this an Observatory?" Nightmare asked. "This is my study."
"Yeah she did." Twilight replied.
"Witherwing Observatory is on top of the mountain south-east of Griffonstone." Nightmare stated. "But there are other things we have to do right now."
"Like what?" Twilight asked.
Nightmare used her magic to pick up her notebook and show it to twilight. It was filled with constellations she had never seen before.
"It's a Self made guide to constellations that Luna creates over the the continent of Moon Heart." Nightmare stated. "That's the name of the continent that encompasses the Lunar Empire, it was formerly called Griffonia but with the radical change in government lots of things changed."
"You will need to tell Princess Celestia that after all our maps still refer to this a Griffonia." Twilight replied.
"I shall, or perhaps you should." Nightmare said. "Now, let us await the coming of the night, for when the moon rises the festival begins."
Meanwhile Celestia and Luna ascended the stairway to the tallest point in the castle.
"Behold the Lunar Spire!" Luna cried. "From here I direct the night, the moon and the stars."
The room Luna was talking about was an open pavilion with a large purple gemstone built into the roof. The gem had caught Celestia's interest the moment she spotted it.
"That Gemstone what is it?" Celestia asked.
"It has no name but it acts as a sort of boost for my spell, more specifically those i use to make sudden changes to the night sky." Luna answered. "Such as giving the sky a red hue or something like that."
"So....you channel your power into the gem and it enhances the power?" Celestia asked.
"No it enhances the range." Luna answered. "The Spell used must either hit the moon or at least high enough in the sky, I'd demonstrate but many of the colours are usually used to alert my soldiers all across the Continent."
Celestia was looking at a book on a pedestal against one of the Pavillion pillars.
A soldiers guide to moon and sky
"This the book right here?" Celestia asked.
Luna nodded as she moved to the middle of the area and sat down.
"Shall we do our duty sister?" Luna asked.
Celestia moved to the center as well before siting alongside her younger sister. The two gazed towards the sky. Luna nodded and Celestia slowly began to lower the sun. Once it hit the Horizon Luna rose the moon until it was high in the night sky. A moment later Celestia could here muted cheering which was not surprising considering the towers height. Luna then turned to Celestia with a massive grin.
"It begins dear sister." Luna began. "Let us indulge in a night of party and mingle among the citizens of my empire."
Meanwhile Shining found himself in awe of what he was currently staring at. In front of him looking down at him was a truly intimidating specimen of a Griffoness. She stood about Celestia's Height and was covered in scars along her athletic limbs. In fact there were scars all along her body some light and hidden by fur or feathers but many were visible.
"Valana Guildgrave." She announced in her deep yet feminine voice whilst holding out a talon to shake Shining's hoof. "Supreme Commander of the Lunar Empire's Military."
"Shining Armor." Shining replied while gingerly lifting a forehoof to shake Valana's talon. "Captain of Celestia's Royal guard."
Valana looked at him oddly.
"Just the Royal Guard?" She asked. "Who commands your military?"
"The Royal guard is our military." Shining answered.
"So your royal guard patrols the country side and guards your towns?" Valana asked.
"No." Shining answered. "We are based in Canterlot and most cities have a Police force funded and run by representatives of The Solar Kingdom."
Valana looked shocked.
"I'm impressed that your empire has stood for so long uncontested with out a proper military force." Valana stated. "But please don't take that as to much of a compliment, after all every empire falls with time and enemies will appear and you must be ready."
"I hope your wrong." Shining replied.
Valana had looked away and was viciously pondering something.
"I was hoping to enjoy the festivities but i will need to find ways to test your guards." Valana stated.
"TEST?" Shining shouted in alarm.
"I want to see the effectiveness of your royal guard." Valana replied. "But don't worry about the six pegasi you brought they will be able to enjoy tonight, but tomorrow i will have a challenge ready for them."
"A challenge?" Shining asked. "Just what are you going to do?"
"I will test your guard to see if they can competently handle threats to your princess." Valana answered. "How they perform will determine the size of the division of my own troops I will send back with you to help you train an Army."
"ARMY?" Shining shouted his face showing horror.
Valana noticed this and sighed while face-taloning. She remembered what Luna said about how Equestria never had a large scale war since she had last been there.
"I both pity and envy you ponies for your lack of war in your history." Valana stated. "You have never experienced the true and lasting hardships it can bring but at the same time it strengthens the bonds of a nation, if it can stay united that is the true test."
"Ugh many ponies would not react well to such an act." Shining said.
"Then let's end this talk and get you outside the festivities begin shortly." Valana chimed as she dragged Shining down the corridor.
Twilight had been to a few of Canterlot own celebrations over her life. She could see the similarities between the Liberation day festival and many of the festivals she had participated in. There was music, stalls with various goods being sold at low prices, and a lot of cheerful faces. She found herself and Nightmare Moon being greeted by almost every Griffon she had met face to face. She received smiles and sometimes even a small gift. Nightmare Moon however received a different reception. Citizens bowed to her and guards saluted her as she passed, she acknowledged them back with either a nod and a kind smile or a salute in return. This didn't surprise Twilight in the slightest considering she was the daughter of their Empress. Spike had decided to stay behind and wander the Castle instead leaving Twilight and Nightmare Moon to their own devices.
"Quite lively isn't it." Nightmare said.
"Very, and friendly too." Twilight replied. "Reminds me a lot of the many celebrations and festivals they have in Canterlot."
"You go to them often?" Nightmare asked.
Twilight looked away.
"Um...no I usually.....study." Twilight hesitantly replied. "I mean i have been to a few with Celestia but."
"Oooohh so you're a bookworm." Nightmare teased.
Twilight looked away and frowned.
"Yeah I guess I am."
Nightmare giggled and.
"Nice to find someone else in my general age group who shares a love for Literacy." She replied. "Not that Griffons don't love reading its just that so few want to remember the history before Empress Luna. Lots of greed, unrest and violence then Luna began ushering in this era of prosperity."
"Did Luna really do it all herself?" Twilight asked skeptically.
"No." Nightmare responded. "She just lead by example and the Griffon's followed shortly afterward."
"Yet they view her as a god." Twilight stated.
"As Ponies do Celestia." Nightmare replied. "Besides we Alicorn are Immortal, so that kind of contributes to such an image."
Twilight looked away for a moment while they both continued down the road.
"Does Luna talk a lot about Celestia?" Twilight asked as she looked back towards Nightmare.
Nightmare nodded.
"She had a country to run and was unsure of what reaction the return of the Griffons would have garnered, she wanted to make sure that we would be able to withstand invasion in case it came to that." Nightmare explained. "Glad it did not, War is something we do not need, no matter how strong our military is."
Twilight just shook her head.
"This is too depressing lets go join in on some of the more lively festivities." Nightmare chimed as she rushed ahead using Telekinesis Magic to pull Twilight along.
Celestia found herself amidst a group of Griffons dancing to a small and merry band of Minstrel Griffons. Luna had bounded off and was now dancing with some of her citizens,leaving Celestia to stand in awe at how open her little sister was being. In their youth Luna was quite the Social pariah and now she was dancing carelessly among a group of Griffons. How times have changed.
"May I have this dance?"
Celestia turned to see a Griffon giving her a bow. The Griffon in question wore the trappings of one of Luna's soldiers but he had politely taken off his helmet and was now politely gazing at her with his green eyes.
"i'm not sure if..." Celestia began.
"Nervous being in our presence?" The Griffon asked.
Celestia nodded.
"That's understandable after all Pony-Griffon relations have never been good." The Griffon stated. "Always tense and suspicious, never could meet in either species capital."
"So I guess that makes today a milestone." Celestia stated.
"More than that, I hope, I want to see a peacefully relationship blossom between our species." The Griffon replied. "I would rather not have to march off to war."
Celestia looked around before staring at the Griffon intently.
"I will ensure with all the power I have that war will never arise between our nations." Celestia stated. "We have lived too long in peace to throw it away due too some lingering feelings of doubt."
"Well as they say princess, The best way to destroy your enemy is to make them your friend." The Griffon replied.
Celestia nodded and turned once more towards the active celebration going on nearby. Luna had stopped dancing and was now now drinking some sort of beverage with a small group of assorted Griffons. Luna used her magic to hold one tankard while she grabbed another and proceeded over towards her big sister.
"Care for a drink sister." Luna chimed.
As much as Celestia wanted to decline the Griffon beverage (It certainly would not be a Canterlot wine.) She tentatively grabbed the mug that was closer to her with her own magic and examined the golden liquid inside.
"What is this drink Luna?" Celestia asked.
"Griffon Whiskey!" Luna cheered. "Hope you can hold your liquor, this stuff is strong."
Celestia carefully brought the mug up to her muzzle and took a swig, the drink tasted good even if she did feel a slight burning sensation in her throat.
"Bet you're glad to be an Alicorn." Luna chimed. "Increased alcohol tolerance."
Celestia nodded.
"What happens now sister?" Celestia asked.
"Grab a partner and dance." Luna replied as she trotted off into the crowd that were dancing to the music.
Celestia turned to the Griffon that was still sitting beside her.
"So I guess...." Celestia began hesitantly.
"Never danced before?" The Griffon asked.
"My job at any royal affair is to stand there and look pretty." Celestia answered.
The Griffon laughed before holding out his talon.
"Worry not Princess I will help you learn." The Griffon offered.
Celestia nodded graciously taking up the offer and walked with the griffon into the crowd.
While music and merriment were common during festivals there were also aspiring merchants hoping to sell their goods. At the base of the mountain of Griffonstone lay the Economic district, probably the largest district as well considering it surrounded the base of the mountain. Twilight Sparkle and Nightmare Moon navigated these crowded streets hoping to perhaps find a business that catered to their interests.
"So what are we looking for?" Twilight asked.
"The greatest Bookstore in Moon Heart." Nightmare Moon answered. "The Spire."
Nightmare moon pointed to a building that stood taller than many of the others, a large stone tower that was about four stories tall and only outshone by a 5 story building with a dome shaped roof in the distance.
"Used to be the tallest building in old Griffonstone until the Economics guild went up." Nightmare explained.
"That's great and all but I don't have any bits." Twilight stated.
"I'll pay, besides bits will not be accepted till trade begins and we have to create a fair currency conversion." Nightmare replied. "That will take months."
The two had entered the spire through it's simple wooden door and now stood among thousand of books.
"Woah." Twilight murmured in awe. "This place is almost as big as the Canterlot library."
"You will have to show me some time." Nightmare replied.
The two of them began to search through the massive library of books. Twilight found herself amazed by the fact that the Library was organised by talon as far as she had seen with ladders that reached the tops of bookshelves. (which confused her because Griffons have wings.)
"Looking for anything in particular?" Twilight turned to see she was being addressed by a Griffoness wearing a pair of spectacles.
"Do you have anything on the history of Griffonstone in the last thousand years?" Twilight asked.
"You would have to go to the Grand Archives to find any information on our recent history." The Griffoness stated. "Don't worry though the Archives are open to the public."
"So you have nothing?" Twilight asked.
"Well we do have a large report written from some Journalist who infiltrated the Cult of the Moon Goddess." The Griffoness answered.
"Cult of the Moon Goddess?" Twilight asked.
"A group of Griffons who passionately believed the Luna came to Griffonia to banish the day forever." The Griffoness replied. "Ever hear the term Lunatic before."
Twilight shook her head.
"It is a derogatory term used as an insult towards those who believe in such fantasies." The Griffoness stated. "The Lunar Guards were the first to use the term during the Cult's attack on the castle."
"Can I find any information on this at the Archives?" Twilight asked.
"Depends on what you are looking for, Some of the information such as the Cults belief have been sealed in the Castle's Royal Archives in the belief that it may cause a second uprising of the Cult." The Griffoness answered. "Although Luna has threatened to execute any cultists should they ever make a reappearance."
“What about the journal then?” Twilight asked.
The Griffoness flew off leaving Twilight alone for a moment before returning with the book in talon.
“Gideon Guildcrest’s Journal.” Twilight read.
“What are you looking at?” Nightmare asked as she approached.
She noticed the book and frowned.
“Gideon’s account suffered a lot of inaccuracies.” Nightmare stated.
Twilight gazed questioningly at Nightmare Moon.
“Why add it to the library then?” Twilight asked.
“Cause it was still truth, just the truth he found.” Nightmare answered. “He saw things from the Cults perspective, What they wanted their members to see, he uncovered the lie that the cult leaders wanted their followers to believe.”
Nightmare sighed.
"If you are really interested in the story of the cult lets go find mother as she can tell you the true story from the most accurate perspective." Nightmare stated as she used magic to hand the book back to the Griffoness.
Nightmare then turned to leave and motioned for Twilight to follow her as she did. The two of them made their way through the streets towards town square.
Luna smiled as she watched her sister dancing with one of the many Griffon's taking part in the merry little dance going on in the town square. The music had gone from its semi romantic tone and slow pace to something a kin to a cheery folk melody. Celestia seemed quite carefree at the moment which was exactly what Luna wanted, after all diplomacy could wait the night. A small break in the crowd allowed Luna to see Nightmare Moon and Twilight Sparkle approaching her, both with serious looks on their faces.
"Been to the Spire I'm guessing?" Luna asked.
"She stumbled upon a certain book." Nightmare answered. "She wants to know my Origins."
Twilight turned to Nightmare in surprise. Luna tapped her hoof on the ground and a Griffon wearing a black cloak materialized from Luna's shadow.
"Milady." The Griffon whispered as he bowed.
"Xan please go get my sister, she should here this as well." Luna ordered.
Xan bowed and moved swiftly through the crowd before returning with a very surprised Celestia.
"Sister?" Celestia asked.
"Tia, Twilight I will tell you of my darkest night." Luna began. "This is a story I keep close too my heart so we shall convene in my chambers."
In a flash the group (minus Xan) were teleported into a lavishly decorated and quite massive bedroom. Luna trotted over too her large bed (it was big enough to support all four of them) and sat on it motioning for the others to gather around her. They found spots nearby with Nightmare taking position beside her mother while Celestia and Twilight lay in front of Luna.
"About Twenty years ago a group of night worshiping griffons decided to form a small cult devoted to the night." Luna began. "They began gathering followers, spreading their ideals, among many other things that at the time seemed harmless, so I let them have their little cult and let them be."
Luna's careless demeanor quickly changed to a serious one.
"Then they began to speak of about a prophecy." Luna began. "They referred to banishing the Tyranny of the Sun forever, They believed that I would one day remove my sister and cover the world in eternal night, or at least that's what the peons believed, their leaders real objectives were much more sinister, but i can talk about those later, Nightmare Moons story begins when I was captured by the cultist's who stated that I was tainted by my sister's way and must be purified of her corruption."
"Greetings Mistress Luna." A voice called.
Luna looked up towards a griffon wearing a midnight blue cloak held together by a clasp that had a crescent moon on it. He stood outside the energy field that encircled her.
"By what right do you detain me." Luna growled. "I already have you pinned for kidnapping me."
"I do not fear the charges for they will be dropped once our master purifies you of the tyrant sun goddesses taint." the griffon stated.
"The tyrant su...." Luna paused and her confused gaze hardened into one of rage. "You have no right to insult my beloved sister!"
The griffon turned to her, his eyes showed anger.
"Your sister has tai..."
"Acolyte silence!" another voice shouted and the cloak wearing griffon bowed his head and stepped back.
A different griffon stepped into Luna's view. This one had had a cloak as well but this one had silver trimmings and no hood showing the standard white feathers on the most standard Griffon breeds.
"Away with you go rally the other acolytes for the ritual then wait for my call." The griffon ordered.
"Yes Chanter." The Acolyte murmured as he turned and left the room.
"So." The Chanter began in a bored voice. "He monologued and you know our plans."
The Chanter rolled his eyes. "To take back our right from the sun tyrant and her servants."
"You can stop right there fiend." Luna growled. "It does not take a genius to know that you have a stake in this or you would not be messing with somepony of my stature."
"Yes I do have a stake in this." The Chanter replied. "I get to see the Ponies brought to the knees by their better."
The Chanter turned away from her.
"Those wretched ponies sit there in their lush farm lands while we struggle in these mountains." The chanter growled while Luna rolled her eyes.
"Struggle, what struggle we thrive in this land?" Luna asked before she realized what his intentions were. "So this is nothing more then xenophobia, you wish to use this as an excuse to hopefully gain some power for yourself by convincing me to become evil."
"We are passed the pint of convincing." The Chanter stated as he pulled out an amulet with a red gem in a upside triangle with an alicorn above it.
"The Alicorn amulet?" Luna cried. "That cursed thing was created by one of the greatest evils of the land, you have no idea what you are messing with?"
The Chanter turned away and placed it on a nearby pedestal.
"Whether I have or have not, I have sacrificed too much already to stop now." The Chanter stated. "Besides, the ritual will destroy the amulet so you can take some solace in that."
"So that's what your counting on." Luna whispered. "Destroy the amulet and ensure the vile magics inside it are absorbed by me."
"Indeed."
Luna laughed much to the confusion of The Chanter.
"Dark magic is wild and unpredictable, It will not react the way you planned." Luna stated with a smirk. "Especially when it comes from an Artifact designed by the malignant King Sombra, It will either possess me or perhaps even kill me."
"I am willing to gamble with that, after all if you die we can frame the ponies for your death." The Chanter replied. "Now if you excuse me I must rally the others for our final sermon."
The Chanter left the room leaving Luna alone behind the shield. A few moments later he returned with a large gathering of cloaked Griffons.
"Can you skip the long winded chant they did." Nightmare Moon asked.
Luna nodded.
"They went on this long winded and mindless chant which made the amulet glow and direct dark energy towards me from the altar where is sat." Luna stated. "At that point thanks to an turncoat, a legion of my soldier's stormed the lair, they reached me at the perfect time."
A few of the cultists near the back of the room turned towards the door. This stopped the ceremony as The Chanter felt the ritual weaken.
"ACOLYTES!" The Chanter shouted in rage. "Why have you stopped?"
"I think there is something going on outside the hall master." one of the Cultists answered.
The Chanter turned towards Luna who was struggling to resist the dark energy that was surrounding her.
"It seems you are weakening." The Chanter stated.
Luna said nothing in return and opted to give him a quick glare. At that moment the doors at the back of the room burst open and a Griffon in a black cloak followed by dozens of Luna's loyal soldiers, who promptly rushed into the large group of cultist and began subduing them by any means.
"Looks like you lost, cultist." The Cloaked griffon stated as he walked up to the altar.
"XAN!" Luna cried. "Destroy the amulet or the Altar, I can fight this but only if the connection weakens!"
The Chanter quickly got into the way but Xan mearly bypassed him by diving into his own shadow before moving past him. The Amulet flew across the room as Xan knocked it off the altar. In that moment time seemed to slow as Luna gathered the dark energy possessing her and shifted it into an orb before tossing it at The Chanter. The Orb hit the cultist leader and rebounded off him before colliding with a wall on the far side of the room and settling on the floor. By this time the guards had either killed or pacified the cultists in the room allowing them to tend to their monarch.
"My lady are you injured?" One Griffon asked as he helped Luna stand up from her position on the ground.
"I am physically unharmed." Luna answered.
"Well take it easy milady we have the situation under control now." The griffon replied.
Luna nodded and made her way slowly towards the door before being stopped.
"Milady the dark force has not dissipated and it seems to be reacting to something!" A griffon yelled.
Sure enough something in the room was causing the once glowing ball of energy to change shape. In fact to Luna the blob of intangible darkness had taken the shape of a pony foal. Luna carefully moved closer as the shadow's became tangible and began refining their shape and and colour. Soon a midnight black alicorn filly with a starry mane lay in front of Luna.
"My queen, what are we to..." Luna cut off the Griffon soldier by using her magic to lift the little filly and place her comfortably between her wings.
"We will see what she becomes." Luna answered. "She has committed no crimes and holds no malice, I will take her as my own daughter and she will learn from me."
The other guard nodded and fell in formation around her while Xan appeared at Luna's side.
"Xan?" Luna asked.
"Yes my queen?" Xan replied.
"Please alert the castle staff to have a small bed set in my chambers for my little Nightmare Moon." Luna ordered.
Xan bowed and sunk into Luna's shadow disappearing from the group.
"So." Twilight began. "Nightmare was the byproduct of darkness from this amulet that had used you to take shape once it had been separated."
Luna nodded.
"I understand by that logic, I should be evil." Nightmare Moon stated. "But mother influenced me a lot as I grew, she shaped me, both mentally and physically I guess."
"Well." Twilight replied. "They say that experiences are what shape a Foal as they grow."
Celestia nodded before yawning and turning to her sister.
"How long will this celebration continue?" Celestia asked.
Luna turned to the Sun Princess.
"Till dawn." She answered. "I understand being the Mare of sunlight means you should be sleeping right now I shall escort you to your quarters and awaken you when its time to raise the sun."
Celestia and Luna left leaving Twilight and Nightmare Moon alone.
"You know maybe going to bed is a good idea." Twilight began. "I need to get Spi...."
So I realize I do not give good descriptions for locations, regardless I'm going to try and give some in depth descriptions for Griffonstone in this AU.
Now first the city itself took inspiration from Lord of the Rings, to be precise the City of Minas Tirith for it's ascent up the mountain. Unlike the a fore mentioned city this rendition of Griffonstone would be much bigger encompassing the entire mountain. Now that would make it bigger then Canterlot yes but it is the only major population center of the Griffons, unlike the Ponies who have a few such as Manehattan, Las Pegasus, Baltimare, and Vanhoover. I will mention other towns but their sizes vary never reaching the size that would allow them to be considered a city by any standards.
Now as far as my reference to Minas Tirith the way it was built up the mountain is as far as I went. For Griffon architecture I envision something similar to Eastern European Architecture of the medieval eras. Mainly leaning towards Germanic architecture. Fun Fact: Griffons still use candle lighting, or oil lanterns.
The City is divided into districts (not rings as a district may encompass many rings) from the top to bottom there are four. The Palace at the top, below that is the barracks district which also houses the airship dock for warships (dubbed Zeppelins), below that is the residential district (it has stores spread around it to make food easier to access, finally below that the few final rings and the ground around the mountain is the economic district which houses many of the various services the griffons use along with another airship dock this one for citizen use (transport, cargo all that.)
Defenses Griffons are a military savvy race that had to adapt to a lack of magic, thus as such technology was a focus. Their Airships are armed with weapons surpassing cannons, what exactly? Your hint is that I play too much Guns of Icarus.
On to Griffonstone's defenses. However via ground assault Griffonstone would be a difficult task. all the way up the rings would be a bottleneck that would be an easy defense. Not to mention Griffons rule the sky through Talon and Airships.
But what about a siege. Well perhaps I will come back to just how Griffons would defend Griffonstone from a prolonged siege later but for now I won't spoil any more.