Twilight and Thunder Snow appeared in a valley just below the black jagged peaks of the Mountains of Desolation which formed the southern border of Equestria and the western border of the Griffon Kingdom. Twilight held her composure but Thunder Snow knew that they would need to be ready for whatever lay beyond.

“We’ll rest here and continue tomorrow,” Thunder Snow ordered coldly. Her feelings were still locked away.

Twilight nodded. Looking around she saw a cave they could use for shelter. With a quick flash the two were standing outside the cave. Thunder Snow signaled for Twilight to wait while she checked the cave. Drawing a dagger, she slowly entered checking both sides and the back of the cave as the sun set. Seeing nothing dangerous she called Twilight inside. Twilight placed an illusion on the entrance making it undetectable as the two of them settled down for some rest.

Thunder Snow was awoken by a strange buzz echoing through the cave. Seizing a dagger with her magic, she approached the barrier. The sun had just risen as the red-orange hues of dawn filled the sky. Looking up she saw a small group of changelings hovering over their location. She wondered what they were waiting for before looking out to the east horizon. A lone griffon flew towards the group and stopped before presenting a scroll. To her shock, Queen Chrysalis emerged from the group and took the letter. The queen seemed insulted as she cursed at the messenger loud enough for her to hear that Coltyn was in the griffon’s territory.

Thunder Snow woke Twilight hurriedly. “We need to move quickly. There is a commotion outside about Coltyn,” she whispers.

Twilight nods and the two look through the barrier in time to see Chrysalis tear the letter to pieces, and let it drift off on the wind. Twilight, not wanting it to get away, teleported the letter into the cave and began putting it back together. One of the changelings started to make a hissing noise but a quick stern look from their queen silenced it. Chrysalis turned back to the messenger, said something, and her squad attacked the griffon, digging their fangs into its flesh. The shriek of pain echoed across the mountains as the changelings fed, and then Chrysalis took hold of his head and spat on his face before encasing him in a green ball and hurling him back towards the Griffon Kingdom.

Thunder Snow watched as the changelings retreated back to their lands, breathing a sigh of relief. Twilight had pieced the letter back together and was scanning it over and over as if the words were tricking her. Thunder Snow looked over and read the letter.

‘To the Changeling Queen;

I, lord of the Blackclaw clan, have recently captured the pony who handed you defeat in Canterlot. We extend an invitation to his execution which will occur in the Battle Stadium. He will be pitted against opponents until he slays them all or more likely dies. This grand display will take place at the end of the week. We hope to see you here for the bloodbath as revenge is finally served.

Lord Nathanial Blackclaw’

Twilight looked at Thunder Snow who couldn’t believe their luck. Now that they had a place and a time and all they needed to do was get there.

“Thinking of a lover?” A familiar voiced called out.

Twilight and Thunder Snow turned to see Chrysalis blocking their exit.

“What’s it to you?” Thunder Snow asked flatly.

“To me? Nothing, princess,” Chrysalis sneered, “I just felt your heart leap for joy. You should be more careful.”

“But how?” Twilight questioned. “I locked our feelings away.”

“You of all ponies should know that even magic as strong as yours can’t hide true love.”

Thunder Snow blushed at the revelation of her innermost secret feelings. “So you know I care for him. I’ll tell you that if you hinder us you won’t see the next sunrise.”

“So quick to judge, that’s not how a leader handles a situation.”

“What do you mean?” Thunder Snow asked through gritted teeth, annoyed that her abilities where now being questioned.

“I just handed you everything you were looking for, the least you could do is show some gratitude,” Chrysalis remarked.

“What, you mean like payment?” Twilight asked, warily. Chrysalis’s smile confirmed Twilight’s guess.

“We don’t have anything in the way of bits or gems…” Thunder Snow began, but was cut off by the queen.

“No, I don’t need wealth,” Chrysalis replied slyly. “I haven’t fed off of love since being tossed out of Canterlot.”

“I will not allow you to use us as livestock,” Thunder Snow objected.

“And I don’t have to allow you to leave this cave alive,” Chrysalis retorted.

Chrysalis and Thunder Snow engaged in a staredown, only interrupted when Twilight spoke.

“If you are allowed to feed, you will let us leave and not impede our travel and never attempt a large scale invasion of Equestria again,” Twilight laid out the terms.

“I guess that’s an acceptable bargain…” Chrysalis smiled coyly, then continued, “But only if I can feed until satisfied.” Chrysalis began eyeing Thunder Snow. “New love is so deliciously sweet.”

Thunder Snow shuddered in disgust.

“That may be, but you want to be satisfied,” Twilight retorted, seeing the Queen’s intentions. “I have a bountiful amount of love.”

“Twilight, I can’t have you doing this,” Thunder Snow protested.

“It’s better that only one of us is weakened rather than both of us,” Twilight retorted.

“She has a point. This will take a lot out of whom ever I choose,” Chrysalis added.

“Don’t worry,” Twilight smiled, “I’ll be alright.”

“I’ve never had an audience when I fed so don’t go anywhere, but interrupt and it will be the end of both of you,” Chrysalis said, looking at Thunder Snow.

Thunder Snow sighed. “Understood.”

Chrysalis turned to Twilight, her horn glowing sickly green for a moment as her form changed into that of the familiar earth stallion. Thunder Snow watched helplessly as the changeling’s disguise worked on Twilight, whose eyes began glowing green. Thunder Snow looked on helplessly, just wanting to have this end so they could save Coltyn.

***

Coltyn was resting in his cell when the hall door opened. His eyes couldn’t comprehend the horror before him. Maria had brought another tray of random vegetation – whichever griffon was creating his meals seemed to relish giving him weeds and bruised or overripe food – but the bruised eye, lacerations, and other welts told him that she had paid dearly for talking to him.

“Who did this to you?” Coltyn asked, concerned.

Maria said nothing, placing the food in the cell. Coltyn noticed a collar around her neck and figured it was similar to his and didn’t press for more information. Maria turned and left, leaving Coltyn alone, nibbling at his food.

“She got off easy,” the old griffon said.

“What makes you say that?”

“She’s still alive – most likely let her live for now to make her see what’s in store for you. It probably won’t last, they’ll kill her eventually. No griffon gets off easy here,” he commented before returning to the shadows.

The hall door opened again, admitting Warden Ironbeak and two fully armored griffons that accompanied him.

“Your presence is required,” Ironbeak stated coldly.

“By whom?” Coltyn asked.

Ironbeak didn’t respond as he opened the cell, the two griffons entered and placed leads on each side of the halter about his muzzle. The two guards yanked harshly on the leads, straining Coltyn’s neck as they
pulled him down the hall. Coltyn tried to memorize the path they were taking but all the halls were decorated so uniformly that nothing stood out, and when he would look in one direction too long his head would be jerked forward.

After about ten minutes they arrived at a set of lavishly embellished doors depicting two griffons facing each other on their hind legs, beaks open and claws ready to strike. Upon entering, Coltyn examined the dining room, which was decorated in tapestries of reds and purples, all bearing the image of a claw holding the world. The table was large with swirl patterns embroidered along the borders. Several violet pillows were placed around the table. Coltyn was led to the one at the end of the table and commanded to seat himself. The cushion was covered in very soft silk. The guards anchored his leads to the table legs and took their places on either side of the door.

Coltyn tried to lift the table to see if he could slip the leads free but the heavy construction was more than his hooves could move. Contemplating what to do, he was distracted as chefs began to bring forth a banquet – roasted pork, ribs, bread, fruit, vegetables, puddings, and pastries all filed in and were laid before him. A sudden flash of Princess Celestia sitting at the other end of the table sent a chill down his spine before his host appeared.

The griffon stood taller than the others he’d seen and his defined and sculpted brown body showed his strength but what stood out were his black claws. He approached the table as Coltyn’s eyes locked onto him but diverted when he noticed another enter the room – Maria.

“Welcome to my table descendent of a murderer. I’m Nathanial Blackclaw,” he welcomed, taking his place at the head of the table. “I know you’ve met my daughter, Maria.”

Coltyn nodded as he looked at her injured body.

“Such a spiteful youth, thinking of such foolish things after talking to you,” He grabbed her beak, looking her in the eyes. “That’s why I had to punish her. Isn’t it?”

Maria nodded, closing her eyes as a stray tear escaped. Coltyn felt his blood boil as he was nearly overcome with the desire to avenge the harm done her, but he sat silently, gritting his teeth. Nathanial watched him knowingly, a malicious smirk twisting his beak. He let go of Maria and filled a plate with food. Almost conversationally, he said, “Now I suppose you’re wondering why you’re here.”

“That thought had crossed my mind,” Coltyn replied.

Nathanial placed a box on the table, pulled out a simple carving knife and slid it across the table having it stop just in front of Coltyn. “Do you recognize this?” he asked, taking bites from his plate.

Coltyn looked at the knife as memories of a bloodied griffon flashed through his mind like so many snapshots. “No,” he answered flatly.

“There is a grand story behind this,” Nathanial began, dabbing some food off his beak with a napkin. “This knife was found thrust deeply into the heart of my ancestor. His son was only a few years from adulthood when the news of his father’s death was received along with the murder weapon. The story goes that a unicorn by the name of Pendragon murdered the entire platoon and tortured my ancestor with this blade and not a week later was able to bring the entire kingdom to its knees.”

He poured a goblet full of wine and took a drink before continuing. “The blade glowed just prior to the end of Equestria’s Civil War. However, when the son arrived in the place that our mages had determined the swell of power originated, there were no ponies anywhere. So he watched and waited to find the one who killed his father and fulfill his thirst for revenge,” he shrieked, stabbing a chunk of meat with his fork.

“So what does your vendetta have to do with me?” Coltyn asked, feigning ignorance.

“His blood runs in you. So when your blood decorates the ground and your entrails are strewn about, revenge will be done and justice finally served,” Nathanial stated.

“How are you so sure I’m related to the one from so long ago?”

Nathanial pointed to the knife before Coltyn. “It glowed brightly as you cast a spell from Canterlot and with a little help I found a way to arrange for your trip here. Some ponies will do anything to try and forward their own pathetic ambitions,” he chuckled. He seemed to relish Coltyn’s start of surprise as he finished his main course. Coltyn was startled to learn that the griffon had a pony collaborator.

“So why didn’t you kill me already? You’ve had plenty of time. Even now it would be as simple as picking up this knife and stabbing me.”

“I’ve a much more entertaining fate planned.” Nathanial began, filling a plate with desserts. “You will entertain my subjects with a gladiatorial battle. You see, most of the time our arena is used by griffons, settling arguments by first blood.” He took a bite of cake. “But I want a real bloodbath. So you will fight an opponent of my choosing to the death.”

Coltyn shivered at the thought. “Without using my magic I assume.” Nathanial nodded. “Then you won’t be in for much of a show.” Nathanial raised an eyebrow. “I don’t know how to fight like an earth pony.”

“Don’t worry I’ll make sure that it will be a show worthy of its meaning.” Nathanial smiled slightly. “With that knowledge I’ll make sure your opponent is smart enough to take orders.” He pushed his empty plate aside. “I know just the ones to take this task. If you’ll excuse me, I must inform them.” He stood and walked to the door, Maria silently followed.

Coltyn ground teeth, his blood boiling; he swatted the plate to the floor. Snorting in frustration, he heard the door behind him open.

“Great, a dweeb pony,” came the sarcastic voice of a female griffon.

Coltyn turned to see a young griffon, brown body and white feathered head with a distinctive fire pattern around her eyes. “Who are you?”

“The unlucky one who has to deal with you,” she sneered, “and why do you care?”

“I was hoping you knew what fate Maria is facing.”

“Why should I tell a dead pony anything?” She loosed his leashes from the table but kept a firm grasp.

“She may face the same fate because I spoke with her.”

She led them down and out to the grounds around the castle wall. Giving a derisive eyeroll, she said, “That foolish hatchling was always soft. She should’ve been smart enough to know that it was going to get her in trouble sooner or later.”

“You know each other?”

“She attended the same preliminary school as me. We were both approached to attend the Junior Speedsters Flight Camp, but her daddy said no and that was that.”

“Why? It is an honor for a flying youth to be accepted there.”

“It’s run by ponies and I’m sure that you’ve seen Lord Blackclaw’s position on your kind.”

Coltyn nodded. “What is your name?” Coltyn asked, walking down a row of cells.

“Private First Class Gilda. Who are you?” she asked as she opened a cell door.

“Coltyn Pendragon,” he replied, just before he entered the cell.

“Well enjoy your stay, however short it may be,” Gilda drawled, leaving the holding area.

Coltyn sat to think he had maybe thirty-six hours to prepare and didn’t like his situation. He began to pace thinking of what to do, but his thoughts always led back to one thought, ‘I wish Thunder Snow was here.’ That thought gave him strength and he settled down and in the dirt made a list of what he needed to work on to try and be victorious.

***

Thunder Snow had looked away but the sound was unbearable; waiting what seemed like eternity before the Queen finally released Twilight from her spell and regained her normal form. Thunder Snow galloped over to Twilight as the unicorn collapsed to the ground.

“I can’t feel my legs,” Twilight said dizzily, leaning on Thunder Snow, who was holding her in her hooves.

“That was truly divine. Much more satisfying than your brother,” Chrysalis practically purred, licking her lips. A faintly bitter look came into her eyes as she commented, “I bet your red stallion doesn’t half appreciate just how pure your love for him really is. Lucky me.”

“You’re a monster,” Thunder Snow snapped, “punishing her like that.”

“That’s how it is. Now I’ll take my leave,” Chrysalis glowed, heading for the cave entrance.

“Who betrayed Coltyn to the griffons?” Thunder Snow asked before the queen left. Twilight drifted asleep.

“A pompous lying aristocrat trying to forward his own goals,” Chrysalis scorned, spreading her wings.

“What was his name?” Thunder Snow asked, her anger evident.

“What would you do if I told you?” Chrysalis asked, looking over her shoulder.

“I’ll destroy them,” Thunder Snow replied, the air around her growing colder.

Chrysalis watched Thunder Snow’s eyes turn a deep ice blue, the warm walls starting to ice over.

“Hmm, maybe I’ll let you take care of that Blueblood fool. Save me the trouble of dealing with him myself.”

Thunder Snow recalled the look Prince Blueblood gave her just before leaving, causing her anger to spike. Chrysalis took wing and left Thunder Snow and Twilight.

“That arrogant fool,” Thunder Snow whispered, gritting her teeth. “I’ll deal with him later.” She took a deep breath, shaking her head to calm herself. “Right now I need to get to Coltyn.”

Twilight had lost consciousness, leaving Thunder Snow thinking on a way to get moving. She quickly gathered a few stray clouds that were overhead, compacting them so they were dense enough to hold Twilight’s weight. She laid Twilight on the cloud and took wing using the cloud for cover as they made their way to the griffon’s territory.

It was going to be a long flight especially if she didn’t want to draw attention to them. She remembered Coltyn saying that they would work on her abilities to control weather. “No time like now,” she muttered. She focused and after a while was able to make it look like stratocumulus clouds drifting across the sky without losing the integrity of the cloud holding Twilight. ‘Now I just have to get to the Battle Stadium and rescue Coltyn,’ she thought as she propelled the clouds across the sky.

She made it to a small grove, a few hours from the griffon kingdom. She lowered the clouds creating a thick fog around the grove. She placed Twilight under a tree and gathered some of the heavily dewed foliage for Twilight. Feeling that Twilight was safe she went off to practice, not wanting to disturb Twilight.

She reached out and gathered water from the clouds, trying to get it to freeze. She stared at the water for what seemed like hours, not getting it to freeze. Frustrated, she threw the water at a nearby tree and saw hundreds of little icicles sticking out.

“How’d that happen?” Thunder Snow asked aloud.

“Focused emotions,” Twilight explained weakly.

“You should be resting,” Thunder Snow said gently. “You were taken… fairly harshly.”

“I’ll be fine. But to answer your question, magic is an exercise in not only focusing the mind but also your emotions. Magic is powerful and if the right emotions are focused with the spell, it can produce extraordinary results,” Twilight explained before she realized she was lecturing. “Sorry, my friends tell me that I shouldn’t go on long lectures to answer simple questions.” Twilight blushed.

“Please, continue. If I’m to be of any help, I must know all I can.” Thunder Snow encouraged. “I’m merely a student and you had the best teacher, so please, continue.”

Twilight gladly obliged, explaining the mechanics of attack spells and focusing emotions to create more powerful spells. Thunder Snow listened intently, asking questions and practicing various techniques, including using telekinesis on multiple objects. The moon was past its zenith when they quit and turned in for some rest. Tomorrow they would rescue Coltyn then deal with the betrayer back in Canterlot.

***

Coltyn spent his time the next morning strengthening his body preparing for the inevitable confrontation; stretching to loosening his body.

“Hey, dweeb,” Gilda called, lacking her former attitude. “Here’s your last meal.”

Coltyn took the plate and set it down. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” she snarled.

Coltyn lifted his head and raised an eyebrow. “I’ve seen that look. Something’s bothering you and I’ve got time, if you want to talk,” he offered.

“You’ll have company tomorrow.”

“Who?” Coltyn asked.

“Maria,” Gilda replied, scowling darkly.

“Has she ever seen battle?”

“She’s not a fighter and I’ve been forbidden to attend on the grounds that I might aid her.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“The opponents will delight in torturing you as long as possible. I don’t want her to know that kind of horror.” Gilda tried to hide the tear rolling down her cheek.

“You want me to kill her?”

“Only if there is no other way,” Gilda clarified.

“From what I understand, there is no way out of this except in a box,” Coltyn replied coldly.

“Just don’t let her suffer,” she demanded, sounding distressed as she turned away, taking her leave.

Coltyn sat processing the information. He ground his teeth in fury, appalled that Blackclaw would send his own daughter to her death. He kicked the cell door but it held firm against his anger. ‘It’s one thing to send me, but to send his own daughter; he must be insane,’ he thought. ‘I won’t let another soul die because of me.’ Coltyn readied himself as best he could, body and mind alike. Rehearsing the circle magic he knew along with preparing his body for tomorrow. He went to the corner, having readied the best he could, he eventually lay down to get some sleep before the nightmare began.

Coltyn woke the next morning to the sound of clanging metal entering the room. He looked up to see Maria – her wings bound – hitched to a platform with anchor chains. Warden Ironbeak and two others walked in behind her.

“Get on the platform and don’t move while we secure you,” Ironbeak ordered, showing the control for Coltyn’s muzzle.

Coltyn complied and climbed up on the platform and waited as they chained his hooves and neck to the cart. He saw that Maria’s back was freshly lacerated and the hitch dug into the wounds.

“She needs her wounds tended,” Coltyn stated concerned

Ironbeak backhanded Coltyn. “She’s dead. The dead don’t need tending.”

Coltyn clenched his teeth together, blowing his breath out through his nose and keeping his silence. He hated knowing that he couldn’t do anything, yet. Ironbeak checked the irons holding Coltyn. Satisfied he turned to Maria, “To the stadium.”

Maria didn’t move immediately which caused her to be whipped by one of the attending guards. She pulled hard, the harness digging into her flesh, and made her way to the exit. The bright sun caused Coltyn to blink, and he took a moment to let his vision clear before he looked out on a crowd of griffons. The uproar as he appeared became an unintelligible sound as they cursed and berated him; Coltyn folded his ears down to trying to block it out. He kept his eyes moving trying to find a way to escape; when a tomato hit the side of his face. He turned and saw a group of young hatchlings with a bag of rotten fruits and vegetables, following alongside him, pelting him.

It didn’t take long for others to join in. Coltyn found himself being hit on all sides, the smell of the foul vegetation turning his stomach. He didn’t know how long he was subjected to the public torment, but soon he was pulled into a large stadium. Maria and Coltyn were unhooked from the cart and put into a holding cell and left alone.

“I’m sorry I got you involved,” Coltyn said, wiping off the vegetation.

“I chose this fate,” Maria stated.

“What?!”

“He gave me two choices, either live like a griffon or die like a pony. After meeting you, I feel disgraced to have even been born.” She looked away, tears forming.

“No, you must live,” Coltyn exclaimed, lifting her head. “You are the heir to the clan and they will need a leader who can bring them out of this dark shadow and into the light.”

She gently pushed his hooves away. “I’m no leader and we won’t live to see another sunrise.”

“You know how to listen and that is the first step to becoming a great leader.” Coltyn explained. “We’ll get out of this and with your leadership; you can lead your clan to greater things then trying to settle a thousand year old vendetta.”

“But there is no way out of this,” she retorted.

“Sometimes you just have to have faith,” Coltyn said as the stadium gate opened. “Stay close, stay alive.”

Coltyn and Maria walked out into the full stadium, insults flying out of every beak. He observed the open air design and protection wards around the field of battle, protecting the spectators. Across from them near the top of the stadium an elaborately designed box stood out; Nathanial looked out on the stadium.

“Greetings fellow griffons,” Nathanial exclaimed. “Today we’ll see justice done for the crimes against our clan. Coltyn Pendragon is guilty of murder and Maria Blackclaw for conspiracy and treason.”

“She’s innocent,” Coltyn bellowed in protest which went unnoticed.

“This being the case,” Nathanial continued, “the guilty will face the three dragons that were brought down for invading our territory.”

Coltyn turned to Maria. “We’re facing dragons?” Maria nodded. “Of all creatures, it had to be dragons.” Coltyn sighed, watching warily as the gates across from them opened.

The first dragon was brown and heavy, two blue horns protruded from his head, and a sphere with small spikes at the end of his tail. The second was purple and spindly, golden hair covered his eyes, and small spikes ran from his the middle of his head to his tail. The third was red and strong, an orange crest ran from the middle of his head down his spine. The dragons walked slightly unevenly, as all their wings were bound.

“Let the execution begin!”

“So, which one of you wants the griffon?” The red dragon inquired, looking at his companions.

“I want her,” the purple one exclaimed, licking his lips. “She looks delicious.” Maria shuddered in disgust.

“I’ll take the pony,” the brown one stated, “more meat on his bones.”

The two dragons started to close on Coltyn and Maria who backed away. “We’ll charge them and just before you get within their reach break right and I’ll go left behind you.”

“Are you mad?” Maria asked.

“We need to get these two out of this fight. Please, trust me.” Maria nodded as they took another step back. “GO!” Coltyn shouted. Maria ran straight at the dragons as Coltyn kept pace with her. The dragons quickened their approach, their prey drawing closer.

“Break!” Coltyn shouted. Maria complied and quickly planted her hind legs and maneuvered right. Coltyn hesitated for a moment to let Maria past him and took off to the left. The dragons turned to follow their claims causing them to slam into each other.

Coltyn stopped and turned, seeing the two dragons fighting but couldn’t find the third till his fist connected to his face.

“Bet you think you’re really clever, don’t you?” the red dragon sneered.

“Not really,” Coltyn replied, rubbing his face.

“We’ll see how far that’ll get you,” the red dragon stated, grabbing Coltyn’s back hoof. “Hey numbskulls, deal with the pony first.” Coltyn found himself flying towards the two bickering dragons.

“What’s that, Garble,” they said in unison, turning just as Coltyn made contact.

Coltyn quickly gained his hooves, seeing that Maria was safe, turned his attention to the two dragons on the ground. Coltyn galloped toward the brown dragon that was on his knees, planting his front hooves, turned and bucked the dragon’s face. A sickening crack was heard; the dragon screamed holding the side of his head, blood flowing down his face. Coltyn reared up again and connected with the dragon’s chest, breaking some ribs. The brown dragon was down; Coltyn looked for the purple one but didn’t see him until his tail struck his side.

“You’re going to pay for that!” the dragon threatened.

Coltyn slowly got to his hooves, holding his side. “Most likely,” Coltyn replied, spitting blood.

The purple dragon charged; Coltyn tried to dodge the attack but the pain in his side caused him to hesitate and the dragon’s tail connected again, sending Coltyn tumbling. He knew that he couldn’t keep his focus on surviving while dealing with the pain in his side and quickly drew a rune in the dirt. A soft white glow emanated from the rune and Coltyn’s side, relieving the pain.

“Your pony tricks won’t save you,” the dragon threatened, turning to attack.

“They don’t have to,” Coltyn stated, charging the dragon.

The purple dragon wasn’t expecting Coltyn’s charge. He was moving too fast to turn and tried to jump over Coltyn. Seeing this Coltyn threw his head up, his horn embedding in the soft underbelly of the dragon. However the sudden change in momentum swept him from his hooves, flipping him over and causing him to land hard on his back.

Coltyn coughed as he rolled to his hooves, regaining his focus as he approached the dragon. The purple dragon lay clutching his side, shuddering in pain and trying in vain to hold his intestines in as blood flowed freely from his wound. Coltyn looked down on the dragon who was about to speak. Coltyn’s hoof hit his head, robbing him of consciousness.

Coltyn looked around trying to find Maria. She had been captured by Garble, who was holding her so her neck was exposed.

“You don’t seem to know how this works,” Garble stated. “We kill you, are let go, and can continue on to that little pony town to deal with the ones who humiliated me.”

“What little pony town?” Coltyn asked, catching his breath.

“Ponyville,” Garble hissed, “to deal with a baby and his pony friends.”

“Then I can’t let you win. They are my friends too, and I’ll not let a dragon like you bring harm to them.”

“Then you’ll be the first casualty, narwhal,” Garble sneered, tossing Maria aside, tensing to attack.

“Do your worst, lava brain,” Coltyn taunted.

The two started to circle, sizing each other up. Coltyn planted his back hoof and charged; his horn down. Garble closed quickly; planted his front claws and swung his body around hitting Coltyn’s front hooves. Coltyn fell on his face, trying to get back up he felt claws dig into the back of his neck. Garble spun Coltyn lifting him off the ground and bringing him back down on his side hard then throwing him to the side.

Coltyn coughed and gasped, trying to fill his lungs. He staggered, scrambling to get his front hooves under him. Before he could Garble grabbed him by his throat.

“I’m an alpha dragon,” he hissed, lifting Coltyn. “No one is better than me.” Reaching back, Garble buried his fist in Coltyn’s stomach.

Coltyn struggled, his body trying to vomit, but Garble clenched his throat shut. He threw Coltyn to the ground, his body coughing up a mixture of food and blood. Before he could catch his breath his tail was grasped and the sharp yank sent him skyward. Coltyn felt weightless, his back legs refusing to move, before falling back to earth. The impact caused him to cough up more blood; he lay there, gasping for air when he was lifted by Garble.

“See, no little pony is a match for a dragon,” Garble stated, punching Coltyn’s face.

“It’d be different if I had my magic,” Coltyn wheezed.

“I doubt that,” Garble scoffed, raising his fist. “You’re just a weak little pony,” he stated, punching Coltyn with every word; the last hit letting Coltyn fall to the ground, bloodied. “You’ve saved no one, Ponyville will burn, and that griffon will be my slave.”

Coltyn couldn’t help but let bloodied tears flow. He was held up to Nathanial; Garble standing victoriously.

Nathanial’s beak twisted with glee. “Finish him!” he roared.

Garble set Coltyn down and raised his fist. A sudden chill wind made Coltyn look up, and he gasped as he saw a bank of fast moving storm clouds rolling in overhead.

“It looks like snow,” Coltyn whispered in slight disbelief, blinking as the revelation of his imminent rescue struck him, an instant before Garble’s fist slammed into his throat, collapsing his windpipe and sending him tumbling across the field to land in front of Maria.

“COLTYN!!!” A voice thundered from the clouds. A streak of lightning impacted near Coltyn’s body as forms appeared.

The gathered griffons shifted in their seats, chattering excitedly at the sudden turn of events. Garble was holding his head as the thunder clap had deafened him temporarily. Nathanial had been warned that there might be another pony to deal with as a sadistic smile cross his beak.

“Kill the intruders!” Nathanial commanded.

A volley of spears fell where the lightning had struck but all bounced off a purple, opaque bubble that had formed.

Under Twilight’s protection, Thunder Snow was instantly by Coltyn’s side.

“Who did this to him?” Thunder Snow asked the griffon.

“The dragon was ordered to by my father,” Maria answered, pleading. “Please help him, he saved my life.”

Thunder Snow was skeptical but she didn’t have much time as Twilight was still recovering. She grabbed the locking mechanism of his muzzle, crushed it with her magic, and pulled it off Coltyn. Immediately his horn glowed black as wounds started to mend themselves.

“Take her back up to the clouds. Stay in cover until it’s safe,” Thunder Snow explained.

“What’s happening to him?” Maria asked, curious.

“It’ll be alright. Go!” Thunder Snow ordered.

Twilight nodded and with another flash only Thunder Snow stood by Coltyn’s body. The dust cleared from where the barrier once stood as Thunder Snow looked out seeing many confused griffons, a dragon and up in a spectator box a griffon that looked down upon the battlefield.

“Welcome Princess,” Nathanial announced. “I’m sorry you weren’t here to see his demise but I’ve been expecting you.” A sadistic smile crossed his beak. “Garble, half my treasury is yours if you kill the princess.”

“Now that’s a deal I can’t pass up,” Garble grinned, feeling the bonds fall from his wings.

“You will stand down, dragon,” Thunder Snow ordered, not backing away.

“You’ve a better offer?”

“You get to leave in one piece,” she replied softly, the air around her growing colder.

“I like his offer better,” Garble smirked, charging the princess.

Thunder Snow looked down, her horn glowed as she lifted the dragon off his feet. “I’ll only say this once. Leave!”

“Not a chance.” Garble took a deep breath, releasing a line of fire at the princess.

She released him to dodge the fire. Garble took wing and dived for the princess. She charged her horn and loosed lightning bolts at him. She was able to catch one of his wings, sending him tumbling. He landed on his feet and charged her. Her eyes glowed white, the ground under the dragon’s feet turned to ice sending him sliding into the wall. He turned as u-shaped icicles pinned his neck and arms to the wall, a dagger leveled to slit his throat.

“You’re out of your league, dragon,” Thunder Snow warned.

“Please don’t kill me,” Garble pleaded.

“So you believe that it’s acceptable for you to murder others, but when your own life is on the line you plead for mercy?” Thunder Snow berated, letting him feel the blade. “You are the lowest kind of coward.”

“I’ll do anything, just please spare me.”

Thunder Snow thought for a moment, sighed, sheathed her dagger, and let the icicle start to melt. Garble let a sigh of relief before a spear buried itself deep into his chest.

“I knew he was a weak fool,” a griffon stated. He was clad in heavy armor with gauntlets that covered his claws, reinforcing them.

“So you’re the one who ordered this?” Thunder Snow asked.

“I am.”

“Who are you?”

“Lord Nathanial Blackclaw and what’s your name, princess?”

“Princess Wintra Thunder Snow, why did you abduct Coltyn?”

“He’s the descendent of a murderer. We wanted justice to be done.”

“What’s your proof?” Thunder Snow inquired, wondering how much he really knew about Coltyn.

“When he uses magic,” Nathanial began, pulling a knife from a box, “this blade glows, like this.”

Thunder Snow smirked as the blade in his claw glowed with a dark aura. Nathanial looked at the blade in bewilderment as it was pulled from his claw and hovered by Coltyn who had gotten back on his hooves.

“How are you alive?” Nathanial demanded.

Coltyn pointed to his horn, “Magic. Now give up your position to your daughter, Maria.”

“Never! I am Lord of this clan!” Nathanial screeched, charging Coltyn.

Coltyn teleported over to Thunder Snow, smiling weakly, “Thanks for coming.”

“I’m just glad I found you,” Thunder Snow whispered, blushing slightly.

Nathanial turned around, anger and hate filling his eyes.

“End this before more blood is spilled,” Coltyn pleaded.

“No, I will see you dead even if I must tear your head off myself,” Nathanial exclaimed. “Guards! Kill them!”

“I’ll handle the cavalry and keep Twilight and the griffon safe; you deal with the boss,” Thunder Snow said, flapping her wings.

Coltyn nodded; Thunder Snow took to the sky. He turned his attention to Nathanial.

“You dare face me alone? You’re even more foolish than I thought,” Nathanial said.

“You’re the fool,” Coltyn hissed. “Sentencing your own daughter to death, you have no right to lead. Step down.” He leveled the knife at Nathanial.

“You don’t get it; I have to die for her to claim my title.” Nathanial laughed. “That weakling couldn’t hurt a fly let alone take my life.”

“Then my task is clear,” Coltyn said, dark wisps emanating from his eyes.

Nathanial took wing, spreading his claws. Coltyn readied the blade with his magic. Nathanial dived, swinging a claw at Coltyn’s head. He blocked the strike with the knife seeing that metal protected his palm; the other claw swiped for his midsection. His claws struck a ten-pointed star shield, Coltyn head-butted the griffon. Nathanial stumbled backwards but quickly charged bringing both claws down to rend Coltyn’s face. Coltyn retrieved the spear from Garble’s chest to catch the blow as he teleported above and landed on the griffon’s back. Breaking the spear, Nathanial proved to be stronger than Coltyn thought. Taking to the sky, Nathanial spun and rolled, shaking Coltyn from his back and causing him to drop the knife. Coltyn teleported away, landing on a disk of energy.

“You’re more formidable than I thought,” Nathanial said, flexing his claws.

“You have no idea,” Coltyn replied flatly.

Nathanial laughed manically, charging Coltyn. Coltyn conjured two shields blocking his strikes. Waiting he let one of the strikes swing past him before hitting his wrist with a bolt of force, causing him to shake his claw to remove the slight numbing feeling.

“You can’t win,” Coltyn screamed. “End this!”

Nathanial charged, “It will end with your death,” he shrieked, burying his claws into the conjured shields.

Coltyn grabbed him with his magic, “You can’t kill me. I’m not the decedent, I am The Pendragon. There has never been another. Your ancestor’s troop killed my family and I ruthlessly slaughtered them all,” Coltyn sneered, seeing the shock on Nathanial’s face, “blood for blood.”

Coltyn pushed him away. Any strategy Nathanial had disappeared and was replaced by blind rage. Levitating himself, the two charged each other, sparks flying every time magic and claw clashed. Coltyn, wanting the conflict to end, charged. He parried Nathanial’s reaching claws and placed his horn to Nathanial’s head. Wrapped in his black aura, Coltyn whispered, “Avasculate,” causing Nathanial to purge blood from every orifice.

“FATHER!” Maria shouted, his bloody body falling back to earth.

Coltyn teleported to where Nathanial landed. “You’ll pay for your crimes and what you did to Maria,” Coltyn said coldly. Nathanial’s body was levitated, his limbs and wings stretched out, as runes were cast onto them.

In a flash Maria was holding onto her father’s bloodied body, Twilight teleporting next to Coltyn. “What are these runes for?” Twilight asked.

“It’s a spell I made. It will kill him.” Coltyn explained darkly. Seeing Maria’s eyes full of tears, he added, “I can either finish the spell or let him go. It’s your choice.”

“I have to slay him to take his title,” Maria said. She looked up at her father, taking up the knife. “I, Maria Blackclaw, claim my father’s title as lord of the Blackclaw Clan.” Tears flowed from her eyes as slit her father’s throat. “I’m sorry.”

Coltyn released Nathanial, letting his body fall with a smile on his face. The guards began chanting, ‘Hail Lady Blackclaw’, causing Maria to blush, through the tears. Thunder Snow spiraled down, back winging to land beside Coltyn.

“Congratulations, Lady Blackclaw,” Coltyn smiled. “Hopefully we can begin settling our differences and together work for a better future.”

“That sounds wonderful,” Maria smiled, wiping the tears away, “and thank you, Princess Wintra and Miss Twilight, if you hadn’t shown up, I fear things would have turned out much worse.”

“It was the least we could do,” Twilight demurred.

“Well, for coming to the rescue you’re all welcome to stay in the castle tonight and head home tomorrow,” Maria offered.

“That would be fine,” Thunder Snow accepted. “I have some questions about who helped abduct Coltyn.”

“I’m sure my father has records somewhere, he keeps them on everything that happens in his lands. Well, kept, anyway,” Maria stated, showing them to the castle. “I’ll begin searching for them right away.”

Twilight and Maria started off toward the castle. Coltyn looked at Thunder Snow, who reared and knocked him to his rump with a foreleg kick to the shoulder.

“That’s for scaring me,” Thunder Snow snapped, then leaned in and kissed his cheek. “That’s for everything else.” She wheeled then and galloped to catch up to Twilight and Lady Maria, leaving Coltyn pondering what happened. Touching the spot she’d kissed, he smiled, got to his hooves, and followed them.