Starstep and Lighthoof stepped into the council room, the buzz of activity reaching their ears before their eyes adjusted to the slightly dimmer light inside. The double-doors clicked behind them, sealing them into the room with their mahogany paneling and egg-shell white accents. Three-pronged wall-sconces provided the light from their flickering flames, bathing the room in an evening glow. Most of the griffon clan-heads and the Royal Sisters were huddled around a table towards the back; the rest of those in attendance were messengers and scribes, going to and fro from one of the two side rooms, scrolls clutched in their mouths or magic as they relayed information. Light leaned a bit to peek into the open side-room, noting the swarm of activity of high ranking Sun-guard officers.

“Star?” Luna gasped from beside her sister. At her exclamation, the other griffons and Celestia glanced up at the two pegasi. Even some of the couriers looked over. A couple stopped, mouths agape, one even tripped over the fine royal-red rug in the center of the walk-way. The chattering in the room tapered off, leaving the pair of colts feeling a little nervous at being the sudden center of attention.

The blue alicorn slipped out from around the table, galloping a couple strides before she composed herself and closed the distance to her husband at a hurried gait. She looked Star up and down, biting her lower lip ever so slightly, ears laying back.

“Oh, my dear guards. What hath done this to thee?”

Lighthoof gave a weak smile. “We took the scenic route.”

“Did Sandy or Dazzle not tell you what happened?” Star asked, keeping his focus on Luna to ignore the stunned looks from the griffons.

“Neigh, my consort,” Luna answered, “They were sedated before we were informed of their arrival.” She gestured a wing towards the other set of doors across from the messenger room. “There is a study in which we can speak of what hath transpired. Come, my Night-Guards.”

Celestia called out from the table, the griffon leaders around her still watching in silence. “Luna, can you take care of them? I'm still needed here.”

The blue alicorn nodded. “Of course, sister.” She pointed a hoof at a nearby green unicorn courier. “Jasmine, please bring hot green tea and sweet-bread to us. Tis urgent.”

Jasmine blinked a few moments, dragging her eyes away from the pair of colts and bowed her head deeply. “Yes, Princess. At once.” She spun on her hooves and slammed out double-doors.

Luna led the way to the study, holding the old mahogany door open for the weary colts before turning her head to the silent room. “Return to thy duties,” she directed to the various couriers that were scattered throughout and peeking in from the message room. She gave a polite nod to the griffons. “Please, excuse the interruption as I debrief my guards. I shalt return post-haste.”

The old white-feather Alexander nodded, his blind milky eyes fixed on her. “Of course, Princess, take all the time you need.” He jerked his head around and narrowed his eyes at Yellow-Feather Hilda as she opened her beak. Seeing his look, she shut her mouth and glanced down at the maps spread across the table.

With that, Luna stepped inside and shut the door firmly with a hoof, her eyes focused on the slumped blue-grey pegasus leaning against one of the two rich-burgundy faux-leather couches. A crackling fireplace illuminated the small room. It was every bit what one would expect in a traditional study with its browns and deep reds, accented with brass and gold, complete with lounging couches, complimenting tea-table and a wide-desk, cluttered with scrolls and quills. Yet to Star, the room felt hollow and cold, the flickering flames offered him no warmth. Luna strode across the distance to sweep the colt into her fore-legs, sitting back on her haunches, hugging him tight to her chest, while ignoring the grave-dust that rubbed off onto her coat.

“Oh, Star, my love. I hath feared for thee.” When Star couldn't raise his limbs enough to return her embrace, the alicorn held him out to study his face. “Thou appears exhausted, as if thou hath danced with the reaper-pony. Pray-tell, how didst thou come to such a state?”

He gave a weak smile up at her, the determination that had kept him going finally depleted now that he had reached his goal. “Do we look that bad?” He glanced to the left, noticing Lighthoof was sitting back on his haunches, wavering back and forth as his eyelids drooped. Now that Star had a moment to notice, he saw the dark-lines under Light's eyes, a haunted look within them. Furrows striped his cheek-fur from tears he'd wept in the tomb and his coat was an absolute mess from the rain and grime from the crypt. His mane and tail were tangled nests that faintly resembled their orginal shape, well as the tangled nest of a mane and tail and three jagged marks on his lower neck marked his battle with a griffon, dried blood smeared along his chest like rust dripping down metal. If Star himself looked half as bad as Lighthoof, it was no wonder everypony—and griffon—had been startled by their appearance.

Star slumped in Luna's hooves, grateful for the strong mare that held his battered body. He looked up into Luna's eyes, noting the dampness there along with her laid back ears and downturn lips. Her concern warmed his heart. “We're okay. Really. Just... tired.”

“Thy eyes tell otherwise.”

He gave a heavy sigh and rested his forehead against her chest-place, his nose smudging filth across the crescent moon. He could feel her hooves encircling him, pulling him firm to her body—the soft scent of lavender and blueberries drifted up into his nose as she embraced him, sending a tingle through his limbs. As her hoof began to stroke his ragged charcoal-black mane, he sniffed and choked back a sob from the rush of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. He suddenly pushed back enough to shake his head rapidly. “No, no. I've cried enough.” He took a few deep breaths before speaking again. “It started at Sandy's-.”

A firm knock on the door interrupted him.

“Come,” Luna commanded, still holding her husband tight.

The door swung open just far enough to admit the green unicorn courier, a silver tray filled with steaming sweet-breads and a silver tea-pot with three matching cups and a little silver pot with spoon held in her magic. “As commanded, Princess.” Her eyes strayed to the barely awake Lighthoof and the colt held in Luna's hooves. Star saw her give a soft shiver as she looked into his eyes before she quickly glanced away.

“Thank you, Jasmine. Place it upon the table and please return to thy duties.”

The unicorn mare did so before giving a deep bow of her head, slipping out with a final look at the pegasi before shutting the heavy mahogany door.

Alone with her guards, Luna placed Star up on the couch and climbed up to sit beside him, her wing unfurling to pull him close to her side. She smiled at the other guard. “Lighthoof, wilst thou join us?”

The tan-pegasi's ears perked before he turned to see her unfolding her other wing, inviting him to her open side. With a slight smile, the tired colt scrambled up onto the couch and sat as near to the Princess as he could without touching her.

“Tisk, this wilst not do.” Luna exclaimed, her wing curling around Lighthoof and hugging him tight against her. “Thou art my Night-Guard and Star's true friend and brother. Thou art family.” She beamed down at him, and though the colt struggled to offer one in return, his efforts were noted. Satisfied that the two colts were comfortable, she used her magic to pour two cups of hot green tea, using the spoon to glop honey into them before levitating them over to the pegasi. “Before thy tale, drink.”

They glanced up at her command then gently took the steaming cups, sipping the liquid carefully. Luna watched, her ever flowing mane tickling the back of Star's head. He opened his mouth to talk but she narrowed her eyes at him. “Drink,” she commanded, her eyes darting to Light to ensure he did not protest.

For half an hour, the two pegasi found themselves in the comforting embrace of the Moon-Goddess, sipping their honey-sweetened tea and pausing to nibble on the sweet-bread when Luna insisted. As they drank and ate, Luna used her magic to mend the wound on Light's neck, though his fur was still matted the blood and three thin pink scars could be seen under his coat. When at last their cups were empty, and two breads apiece had been eaten, she used her magic to take the cups from them, letting them clatter to the table.

“Now,” she said, looking from one to the other. “Begin thy story.”

Star felt that his tongue had been loosened, the dry dust from the tomb washed away with the tea. His belly felt better from the morsels of food, though he still had a hollow feeling in his gut. With a heavy exhale he began the story, starting from Steelhoof's appearance at Sandy's. As he did so, Lighthoof would interject with things he noticed about the griffon's weapons, tactics, and types of magic the Druids had used against them. Luna raised her eyebrows at the talk of the magic-using griffons, but remained silent as they continued.

After a while, Star reached the part about the pit and how Steelhoof pushed him away from getting speared. He hesitated. “Um... speaking of Steelhoof. I sort of made a deal that-” Luna reached her opposing hoof across her chest to place it upon his lips. He noticed that she had removed her crystal slippers, the cool touch of her unadorned hoof sent a shiver through him.

“One must learn to prioritize troubles. He ranks far below our current worries. Proceed with thy tale.”

Star nodded, exhaling again before he launched into the next part. The darkness, the prayer to her, the ghosts and skeletons. She simply listened, never interrupting or letting her emotions betray on her face.

Then he got to the part about the little white filly alicorn and she at last reacted, dipping her head down slightly, eyes closing for a moment as she sighed.

“I had hoped she wouldth been released when my sister trapped Nightmare and I upon the moon. Tis unkind that she should suffer for so long.” She shook her head sadly. “Forgive me, my love. Please, finish.”

The blue-grey pegasus spoke in near whispers about their encounter with Nightmare. He danced around telling Luna what visions he had seen—the flicker of Scootaloo's look of betrayal still haunted him at the edges of his mind. The alicorn did not ask for details, seeming to ignore the shiver and look of disgust that flashed across Star's face.

He told of Dawn's deal, offer of her moth-guide, Nightmare's warning about the druids summoning the Red-Empress below them and the advice about Alexander being the key to slowing her down. He hesitated for the next part, looking up into her teal eyes.

“Um... so... after all that, I decided I couldn't let Dawn stay down there any longer. I did promise I'd help her, despite finding out that Nightmare was her sister I figured it was the right thing to do. No pony, not even that twisted mare deserved to be locked down there forever. So... I used my wings and broke the spell.”

Luna nodded. “I see... What hath become of them?” she said, suspicion thick in her voice

Star shrugged. “The room collapsed, they disappeared and the feeling of being watched and that overwhelming aura of hate and despair went away. I mean, that place was still horrible, but it was a shadow of what we experienced before I broke the spell.”

“Then perhaps at last they art at rest. For this I am thankful.” She leaned down to kiss him on the forehead, ignoring the taste of old death on his coat. Her wings hugged Star and Lighthoof to her sides. “Thou art correct that no pony deserved the pain that they hath suffered. Tis why I attempted to help them in mine own way so long ago.”

Lighthoof spoke up. “Yeah, I thought he was nuts for letting her loose, but, dude, when we got to the ballroom and all the ghosts thought we were them? The horrible stuff they talked about. I get the feeling that Nightmare wasn't really the bad-guy, er gal.”

Luna cocked her head at him. “They thought thou were the sisters?”

Light nodded. “Yup. Called me a filly.” He gave a slight smirk. “Can't say it didn't make me feel pretty.”

Star rolled his eyes. “Anyhoof, it was like we were watching a memory of them. A Madame Silver let us out and then when we got to the surface these ghost guards came charging out after us and vanished.”

The alicorn pondered for a moment, then shook her head. “A tale for another time. Tis not a pleasant one and both of thee art too emotionally fatigued for more.” She cast a glance up at the clock, noting she'd been with them for the last couple of hours. “Alas, my dear Night-Guards, duty calls and the city is still yet under siege.”

Star yawned and nuzzled into her coat, inhaling her wonderful scent while he could. “I know, Luna. I hope Nightmare's advice about Alexander helps.”

Luna smiled before leaning down to return his nuzzle. “Despite her... twisted ways, she was never a liar. Perhaps White-feather has more sway amongst his kind than he lets on.” She turned her head to give Lighthoof a kiss on the forehead, surprising the pegasus. “I thank thee for looking out for my Star. Knowth that I owe thee a debt.” With that, the alicorn slid her wings from their backs and off the couch, looking over her shoulder at the two. “Sleep. Rest whilst thou can. I fear more troubles art to come.”

Lighthoof raised a hoof, fighting back a yawn. “Are you sure we can't help? There's still-”

“Neigh. So much hath been asked of thee this evening.” Her magic cracked the door, then she paused, giving another glance over her shoulder. “Know that thou hath made me proud.” With that, the alicorn slipped out of the room, shutting it tight to leave the two colts alone in the quiet study.

Star's sleep was fitful and he would awaken in starts, hearing Nightmare's laughter in his ears before his exhaustion dragged him back into the black void. He wasn't sure how long had passed since Luna had left them to sleep. Lighthoof was curled up on his half of the couch, whispering in his sleep and giving an occasional shiver, but at least he could stay asleep, to which Star was slightly envious.

A soft knocking on the door perked his ears before he turned to find Jasmine peeking into the room. She gave Star a weak smile. “Sorry to wake you, sir, but Princess Luna says it's urgent.” She couldn't seem to meet his eyes as she spoke, staring at the couch or the floor, but never directly at him.

He nodded. “Alright, we'll be there in a second.” With that, the unicorn courier closed the door as he leaned over to shake Lighthoof on the shoulder. “Hey, Light, we gotta get up.”

Lighthoof sat up screaming for a few seconds before trailing off into a whimper. He looked around the room, eyes wide in panic, ears swiveling he noticed it was just him and Star. “...Oh buck me... I'm sorry, dude.”

Starstep rubbed at his ear, grimacing. “No prob. We're both having problems getting any real sleep.”

“Tell me about it.” Light lowered his head into his fore-hooves. “I keep seeing... things. Oh, dude, you have no idea.”

“I have some.” He patted Light's back and sighed. “Come on. Luna needs us.”

With that, the pair slid from the couch and exited the study to find the council room in an uproar. Griffons were yelling at each other as couriers hurried about, gathering scrolls from around the room and handing them to unicorns who vanished quickly thereafter. One young colt was sobbing in the far corner, using his white tunic as a rag to wipe away his tears. Standing near the study doors, the Royal Sisters watched the commotion, stoic masks upon their faces.

Luna noticed the colts and gave them a slight nod. “Mine apologies for awakening thee.”

Light rubbed at his eye with a hoof, blinking against the brighter candlelight. “What happened?”

Celestia looked to him with her signature regal bearing, her pastel mane flowing about. “The courtyard is lost; the enemy is at the gate but they have not been able to force their way into the main building. Now, they send word that the Red-Empress herself would like entrance to parley with us.”

The two Night-guards shared a knowing look.

“Um...” Lighthoof began, looking up to the white alicorn. “You're not really gonna let her in are you? Nightmare even seemed in... well... awe of her, I guess.” He ruffled his matted mane with his hoof nervously as her eyes narrowed.

“I have no interest in anything that monster has to say. However, I'm not foal enough to discount the fear the griffons have for her.” She exhaled. “Yet, what's done is done. It's better that we meet with her in an attempt to stop anymore bloodshed. Far too many citizens have lost their lives tonight—griffon and pony.”

Luna gave a curt nod. “I agree sister.”

One of the griffon clan-heads, one of the quieter males that Star did not recognize, was tossed from the council table and tumbled across the rug in front of the four ponies. After coming to a stop he looked up at the fuming Red-Feather Natasha. “Coward!” she screeched at him as he backpedaled away, eyes wide in terror. “How dare you claim to lead! Your clan may have honor but you are a spineless worm.” The Matron of the Blacktalons stalked towards the trembling griffon like a large cat. “I'll rip your feathers out one by one and-”

“Natasha.” White-feather Alexander's calm tone halted her advance. Her head swung around to glare at him. “Compose yourself, my dear. He only suggested we surrender to save the lives of our clan-mates.”

“You would take his side.”

“Nonsense. I think it a ridiculous thing to do before we even meet this so-called Red-Empress. She's either fake, or real. I don't believe we should decide anything until then. Besides, there's certainly nothing wrong with looking out for your clan's well-being.” His milky eyes turned to Blue-feather Rita next to him. She cleared her throat and couldn't meet his twisted smile. “Now, then—can we be civil for a little bit?” He turned his head towards the fuming Natasha. “Let's see where we stand before you rip poor Igor apart.”

Natasha curled up the edge of her beak, eyes narrowing before she turned to the other griffon still on the floor. “Later, we will finish this,” she stalked around him, watching the smaller male tremble, “and then, I will either kill you or screw you—perhaps both, you weak little shit.” She marched past him, the end of her tail swatting the griffon in the back of the head as she passed to return to the council table.

Luna have a soft sigh, whispering to Star. “They art always so overly dramatic.”

A heavy knock on the double-door stalled conversation at the council table. Igor scrambled from the floor to take a place at the edge of the table next to Hilda. She briefly looked at him with mild disgust.

The door cracked open and a unicorn-mare leaned her head in, looking around until she saw the alicorns, her hooves trembled against the edge of the door, ears tilted back. “P-princesses, the visitor has arrived with two escort. W-what is your command?” She gave a fleeting glance behind her.

Natasha chuckled. “Only two? This one is either very brave or very stupid.”

Alexander looked in her direction. “Or simply confident in her victory. If she truly is the Red-Empress, she doesn't have a lot to fear from us.”

The guard-mare hesitated, then lowered her voice. “Um... t-there's also something else... the... um... the escorts are wearing... trophies.” She said the word with her tongue hanging out afterwards as though she had tasted something foul.

Celestia's eyebrow rose and she looked to her sister. “What are your thoughts, sister?”

Luna gave a soft shake of her head. “If we refuse their entry, I dost fear the consequences. Perhaps tis best, then, that we temporarily ignore the vile crimes they hath committed. I am yet curious to meet this creature and place a face to one whom would command them to do such unthinkable things.”

The white alicorn gave a nod. “Justice will be served, sister. This I swear.” She looked to the nervous messenger. “Escort all three in, please.”

The unicorn nodded, slipping back out the door. Celestia called out, “Captain Oakwood.” A brown earth pony stallion wearing a white officer's jacket marched to the open doorway of the comm-room and slapped his hoof in salute.

“You called, Princess?”

The Sun-Goddess tilted her nose up, striking a commanding pose. “Take everypony remaining here and gather any stray guards and civilians left in the inner-fortress. Ensure they reach the main foyer and await us. If things go badly, you are to escort everypony you can to safety. Is that clear?”

The officer saluted again and called out into the room. “Grab what you can ponies, we're leaving, now. I said NOW, Twinkleshine.” Under his direction, the last of the command and messenger staff rushed out, saddlebags bulging with scrolls and intelligence materials until he was the last to leave, giving a respectful bow to the Royal sisters before shutting the double-doors behind him.

Celestia and Luna walked towards the table, standing near it, but not in front of the griffons. Star took his place at Luna's side, and Light on the other end next to Celestia. They waited in silence, watching the entrance until there was a heavy knock.

“Enter,” Celestia commanded.

At her word, the doors swung open, a pair of armored Sun-Guards holding them for the three griffons. In marched a large, pristine griffon, her golden feathers, painted with streaks of crimson runes. Black talons dug into the floor, chipping the stone as she walked in with the bearing of a conqueror, a commanding air that demanded, “You will listen to me.” Her back lion half was white, coat brushed to a soft gloss that shone in the candlelight.

Beside and just a few steps behind the female were a pair of males, their feathers matted in what appeared to be dried and crusty blood. They wore gauntlets on their fore-limbs, dozens of little silver spikes jutting out of black leather. Star wasn't so sure it was faux-leather, either. But it was what was around their neck that caused bile to rise in the back of his throat. On leather cords, they each wore an assortment of things. Bone-chips carved with runes painted with blood, dried ears from various races, even a few teeth, curved and wicked. But it was the long spiraled objects that marked the center-piece of each necklace which made him ill. Unicorn horns. Holes had been drilled into the bases, the tip pointed down their chest—one was a soft green, the other an off-white.

A glance over at his friend told Star that Lighthoof was just as disgusted, a snarl twisted his muzzle. If it was not for the Princesses' presence, he wasn't sure his friend would've been able to restrain himself.

As the griffon began to pass, Celestia gave a respectful nod. “Welcome to Spurlin, Red-Empress, I am-” she trailed off as the griffon completely ignored her and marched right up to the council table. Star could see the corners of Celestia's eyes tighten and her jaw clench.

The golden-feathered griffon counted the clan-heads. “How disappointing. I see only five of you took my warning and left the company of these...” Her eyes flickered to the four ponies. “Lesser races.” She waved her claw dismissively, the golden bracelets around her forelimb clattering. “But, let it not be said that I am not forgiving.” She smiled at the trembling Igor, noting his light-green stripes. “There will be punishments of course.” She reached out a claw to trace down the terrified griffon's cheek. “Though, it is understandable that you thought it a hoax—that I had not returned, reborn in the flesh.” She pressed her claw firmly into Igor's cheek, making him cry out as a small trail of blood ran down his feathers. The other griffons did nothing to stop her, only watching in silence. She pulled her hand away to lick at the blood and eyed the male. “How about you; do you wish to bow down at my claws and worship me?”

He nodded rapidly, causing the Empress to smile wickedly. “Well?” She gestured to the cold stone floor before her. The griffon immediately prostrated himself before her, ignoring the looks of disgust from Natasha. “Splendid. I'm certain you and your clan will make excellent slaves.” She laughed at his shocked expression. “What else would I do with those who bow so easily?” She gave him a look of mock pity. “Worry not, life as a slave is short.” The empress pointed at her guards. “Go stand with them, slave.” When he hesitated, she slapped him across the face, leaving three jagged lines down his beak. “You forget yourself. You are mine now. GO!” She did not watch him crawl away, so far beneath her notice.

Star wondered why the griffon bent so easily to her. It was like he'd given up without a fight.

“Because some enjoy it.”

The pegasus blinked and looked up at Luna, but she had her attention focused on the Empress.

“Now.” The Red-Empress sneered. “Are there any others who wish to bow? I will not be so merciful if I'm forced to bring my full power to bear. You will beg and cry for release from your torment. I will break you as my army has broken this city.” She chuckled. “You called us outcasts. Scattered tribes, yet I have united them, brought them together. I even called the Red-Druids from their secluded den to join my forces. We are greater than any of your armies.” She pointed a claw at Natasha. “I am not afraid of the Black-Talons. You are worms before our might.”

“And I am not afraid of you.” Natasha spat back.

“Brave words from a griffon who fucks the ponies.” She turned her head to glance at Lighthoof. “Is he your type? Or perhaps the dirt-crawlers?” Her eyes returned to the snarling Matron of the Black-Talons. “Oh, my spies have told me ALL about your rutting with prey. How you and your sister take turns getting rammed by these disgusting creatures.” She noticed the surprised look of a few of the other Clan-heads. “Did she not tell you of her tastes? I wonder why...” The Empress grinned triumphantly before her eyes fell on Yellow-Feather Hilda. “And you, oh, my dear Hilda.” She gestured with a claw. “Come my pet.”

At her beckon, Hilda lowered her eyes, unable to meet the odd looks the others gave her. She meekly walked around the table to sit at the Empress' feet. She ducked her head as the larger female stroked her feathers. “Such a good pet. You did a fine job delivering those letters. It's a shame so few left the fortress. But, you did as I commanded and so I shall reward you. In fact, I will personally whip you every night. Would you like that?” Hilda looked up with such adoration that Star felt his stomach churn.

“Why would she betray the others to be abused and degraded like that?” Star wondered to himself.

“Pleasure, pain. Not always separate.”

Starstep raised an eyebrow, sneaking a glance up at Luna, but again the mare paid him no heed.

The Empress looked at the rest of the silent Clan-heads as her claws ran through Hilda's head-feathers while the leader of the Fairwind clan sat there like a loyal dog. Ten in all remained. She eyed each of them in turn, as though deciding which to attack next.

“Enough of these games.” Blue-feather Rita stated calmly. “What exactly do you want?”

“Your submission. Bend or break, I don't really care. The Red Empire is reborn. I am the Red-Empress and you WILL fall before me.”

White-feather Alexander threw back his head and laughed, startling the other griffons except the Empress, who simply seemed annoyed. “You're not her. You're a pretender.”

As he said this, the other remaining griffons blinked at him, then turned to stare at the 'Empress'

“How dare you! You are just a blind old fool. I am the Empress reborn!” She pointed a claw upwards, golden bracelets clattering as her other claw dug into Hilda's skull. Hilda simply closed her eyes and accepted the pain. “The heavens foretold my coming! Even the Red-Druids support me.”

“And you call ME the blind one.” Alexander cocked his head. “Tell me, Empress.” He smirked, his battered beak twisting at an odd angle. “How is it that you gathered the other outcasts?”

She grinned. “Easy you old fool. I won by conquest. If I must, I will defeat each of you as well and devour your hearts.” She licked her beak.

“Conquest does not make you the Red-Empress,” Alexander responded.

“Pretender or not, Elder.” A younger Clan-head said. “She has proven she's powerful enough to unite all the outcasts and take this city. Maybe joining her isn't such a bad idea.” A few of his peers nodded in agreement.

Starstep noticed his breath was coming out in a cold mist. Puzzled, he took note that the same was true for the others in the room. He gently nudged Luna with his fore-limb catching her attention. She leaned down, eyes still on the arguing griffons. “What's with the cold?” he asked.

Luna spared a quick glance around, noting a fine sheet of frost was forming on the handles of the double-door. She tilted her head towards it, directing Star's attention. “Tis not I, my love.” She returned to her regal pose. “If I may interject?”

All eyes turned to the blue alicorn. The Empress spat on the floor. “No, you may not. This is griffon business, slave.” She did not even look at Luna.

“Mine query is for White-feather Alexander.” At his nod, Luna continued. “Why dost thou claim she is but a pretender?”

A twisted grin spread on his beak. “Ah, at last the question is asked. Simple enough, dear Princess. This griffon has no magical ability. I can't sense it, I can't smell it.” The other clan-heads were now eying the Empress suspiciously. He gestured with a claw towards the doors which were coated with a light frost. “Unless the door is her doing.”

Puzzled, the Empress turned her head to notice the frost-coated door.

There was a firm knock. The Empress' escort glanced at it, then their ruler. A moment passed, then another hard knock, shaking a bit of rime from the handles.

“Open it.” The golden-feathered griffon commanded.”

They gripped the handles in their leather-gloved claws and jerked. As the double-doors swung open, a wave of freezing fog swept in from the cloudy hallway. Out of the mist, two red-robed figures marched in, hoods pulled down low to shadow their faces. Claws and hooves clicked on the floor as they strode in and to the sides, taking up sentry positions as the chilling fog in the hallway rolled about at the entrance. Another red-robed figure walked in, hers trimmed with white fox-fur of the purest white. She was slightly smaller in statue than the snarling griffon Empress. Clicks of claws and hooves puzzled Star as he watched this figure walk with an air of authority and grace that reminded him of the Princesses. The newcomer stopped in the center of the room, glancing around the room from her dark hood before she lifted a claw and pulled back the cowl.

Star was struck at how beautiful she appeared to him, despite being what appeared at first glance to be a griffon. Her head seemed sleeker with long tufts of feathers running from the tops of her eyebrows, little pony-like ears directed towards the group, her beak a little less curved than the rest. Her feathers were a beautiful crimson red with yellow eyes that danced around, judging everything. He felt a chill wash through him when the intense gaze studied him.

The two druids walked up and pulled the robe from their mistress, revealing her back half was a pony with brown coat with a black pony tail.

“Hippogriff.”

The word just popped into his head. He'd never heard or seen such a thing. The look on most of the Griffon's faces was shock.

The hippogriff looked down her beak at the Empress griffon. “Dala ka' sin pah nor Raja-Empahis? Keerish nol.” She spoke in musical words.

One of the druids stepped to her side, still hidden under his hood. “My Mistress asks, 'who here is claiming to be the Red-Empress? Speak now.”

The 'Empress' glared at the new-comer, marching up to the smaller hippogriff, leaving Hilda forgotten on the floor. “I am the Red-Empress, by right of conquest.”

“Vah, dun-lah mek nah ooh.” The smaller answered. Star had a hard time looking away from her though he couldn't understand why. Something about her drew the eyes.

“My Mistress says, 'If you renounce that claim, you may live.” The interpreter Druid said.

White-feather Alexander cleared his throat. “Ah, a friendly suggestion that you should take her up on that offer.”

The Empress rolled her eyes. “I do not take suggestions from blind old fools. I will deal with you cowards in a moment.” She looked to the druid, ignoring the female hippogriff. “Why are you following her around? You swore to help me rebuild the empire! You took an oath!”

The druid cocked his head. “We took an oath to rebuild the empire. And we swore to follow the Empress. There is a reason we wear these robes, Lady Gilnya.” He pulled his off, letting it drop to the floor revealing that he too was a hippogriff, though his feathers were emerald and his hind-pony coat was tan. “We serve the Red-Empress because we are of her blood.”

The false Empress curled her beak in disgust. “All of the druids?”

“Yes. And if you continue to ignore my Mistress, she will cause you much suffering. She will only offer you this kindness once. I suggest you renounce your claim.”

Lady Gilnya looked down her beak at the silent Empress and spat in her face. “Filthy half-bloods. My soldiers will destroy you! Kill them!” She reared back her claw to slash as her two savage guards sprang at the druids from behind.

If Star had blinked, he would have missed the Empress dart her right-claw into the Griffon's chest. She clutched a bloody organ, pulsing in her dripping talon. Lady Gilnya's face contorted in pain and confusion, eyes struggling to focus on the heart held before her. Then she toppled over, the small hole in her breast oozing blood on the rug.

Behind her, the druids dodged the savage escort with agility and grace before snapping their necks in a beautiful dance of death. Star gave a shiver as he realized that these two were FAR above the ones he'd faced in the streets.

The Empress leaned back her head, opened her beak and swallowed the still pulsing heart whole—much like how Star had seen birds do to fish. She lowered her head, glanced down at the mess at her claws, dark blood soaking into the already red rug. She turned her gaze to the ponies.

“You will be compensated.” Her voice was almost melodic.

Star shook his head in confusion. A moment ago she was speaking in some foreign language. He looked up at the alicorns, who watched everything with their usual regal masks. Star wondered if they were just staying out of griffon business.

“Fear.”

Celestia gave a gentle nod. “It's fine, Red-Empress.”

The two stared at each other for a long moment, then the hippogriff turned to do the same with Luna. “I see.” She began. “The pony races have immortals. The balance has shifted once more.” She turned to the other druid. “Maya.” The robed druid pulled back her hood, revealing a silver feathered female.

“Yes, Mistress?”

“Defrost the ponies. Ensure no lasting damage.”

The druid bowed deeply then spun about to enter the fog filled hallway.

The empress returned her attention the alicorns. “We did not wish to harm. They barred my path. They shall be restored.”

Celestia gave a formal smile. “I'm glad you've chosen not to kill some of my subjects. I only wish the same could be said about your soldiers in the city.”

“They were not mine. Not yet.” She gestured with a bloody claw towards the back of the room towards the silent griffons. “Walk with me, immortals?”

Star sensed the hesitation in Luna's movement before she and Celestia calmly walked towards the hippogriff. The Empress scratched the air with her claws, drawing trails of green light that summoned roots that split through the stone floor. The roots twisted and curled around the heavy oak council table,dragging it from her path and scattering the Clan-heads. She ignored them, walking straight towards the back wall with the two alicorns at her sides. Star gave Lighthoof a shrug and they followed after, ignoring the disapproving stare of the remaining druid as he watched from the side.

The Empress flicked her claw again and roots sprang from the wall, tugging stones from their place, groaning and cracking as they splintered the mahogany paneling. The created circular hole was large enough for all three to fly through if they wanted, trimmed by deep green roots. She stopped at the edge, this room on the third floor, gazing out over the city, flames still flickering even in the steady downpour. The sisters joined her, with the colts hanging back, but close enough to hear and see.

“My Druids guided the false-Empress with hopes to avoid much blood-shed. She was warned against unnecessary deaths. Her outcasts are bloodthirsty with too much... Keianynaish.” She circled her claw in the air, as though sifting through sand. “Hatred of non-griffons? My work has been twisted over thousands of years by the savages. There will be atonement.”

Below them, cries rose up. “It's the Princesses!”

“Princess! Save us!”

“Help us!”

The alicorns looked down, as did the pair of pegasi who peeked around the edges. Below them the courtyard was stuffed with ponies and a few griffons, reaching up to the alicorns far above them. Pleading for help in the pouring rain.

Celestia turned her barely contained fury towards the hippogriff. “What is this?”

The Red-Empress swept her claw towards the writhing mass below them. “Your subjects. My druids did their best to gather them unharmed. Here they are away from the fires and the blood-thirsty outcast patrols that follow.” She looked to the white alicorn. “One day, they will be my subjects. Pony kind has proven worthy. Long ago, you were slaves, beasts of burden.” She noticed the flash of anger in Celestia's eyes. “Before your time, immortals.” She paused, studying both of the taller sisters. “Perhaps you will join the Empire.” The hippogriff glanced over her shoulder at the eavesdropping griffon clans. “Yet, uniting the homeland comes first.”

“We wilst not join thee,” Luna coldly stated. “We art free. Our citizens art our children and thou shalt not take them from us.”

The Empress simply smiled. “There is freedom in my Empire. Your children are important to me. I have saved many from death and cruelty. We are speaking as equals, not battling as beasts. I am not heart-less, but am forced to rule with a... Mah' dah lah mia?” She cocked her head, eyes dancing about as she consider the proper phrase. “Ah, a... velvet covered fist?” She gestured to the burning city. “This is my homeland. The seat of my empire. You built here, I reclaim it.”

Luna tilted her head. “What do you mean?”

“To stay, one joins the empire. Here there is order, protection and fairness. Law that is cold yet honest. Or leave...” She pointed at the city gates, far off in the distance. “Take your children and return to your lands. The journey is long and dangerous. I cannot offer protection.”

“We can protect our own.” Celestia stated.

The hippogriff raised a tufted eyebrow before looking down at the crying masses then back up at the white alicorn as though to prove a point.

“Take what you can carry and leave. The storm clears in three hours. Be gone through the gates by then. Those who remain become citizens.” She tilted her head up. “Fight me on this judgment and I rescind my protection on your children now.” She turned and walked away from the sisters, talons and hooves clicking on the polished floor, leaving a congealed trail of blood from her right-claw. “I rule out of love, immortals.” She stroked her claw through the air, leaving faint lines of blue-smoke, a throne of ice forming in the center of the room. The hippogriff settled into the frozen seat, puffs of frost rolling from the surface. “I rule because all must be united.” Her eyes turned to the quiet griffons, watching her with a mixture of expressions. “No more bickering, or pointless wars. Free trade, fair laws, no corruption. Ula'tah Eranh. All are equal.”

Alexander stepped forward. “Empress, with respect, you rule out of fear and blood. I have read the old books on your laws.”

“Only to quell chaos and disorder. With peace, I unclench my claw and embrace. To'goth More. Tough Love.” She sighed, seeing the unconvinced looks on some of the griffon’s faces. “Stay and join or leave with the immortal ponies. The end result will be the same. Your clans disbanded, new houses formed.”

Gasps of disbelief and whispering started up amongst the ten clan-heads. The Empress turned her head towards the sobbing Hilda, the griffon crying over the corpse of the pretender. “You, child.” She pointed at the griffon, her voice magically pulling her attention.

“Y-yes?”

“Did you care for her?”

“I-I, no, yes. I don't know. She promised me things.” The broken female sobbed.

The Empress stared into her eyes, searching, then pointed a claw towards the spot next to her frozen throne. “Come.” She commanded softly.

Hilda hesitated, confused, but when she looked back up into those intense, age-less eyes, she shivered and crawled over to lay next to the throne like a pet.

Celestia gasped. “How is this love?”

“How is it not?” the Empress replied. “She seeks protection, acceptance, freedom from choice. I offer love for her service. She is happy with this.” She smiled to the disgusted Sun-Goddess. “I forget how young you are—how new to ruling.” Her eyes lingered on the pair of pegasi behind the sisters. “I do not abuse my servants as have.”

Celestia cocked her head in confusion before glancing back at the colts. “No, they are not our servants. They are our consorts.”

The Empress gasped. “Dah' sah hore nil! How can you claim to love? You let death cling to them!”

Luna stomped a hoof, her crystal slipper giving a sharp snap on the stone floor. “We didth not do such things to them. Tis because of the conflict within our walls.”

“My walls, immortal,” the Hippogriff corrected. As she looked to the two pegasi again, the Empress gave a sad shake of her head.

The sound of wood scraping the floor caught her ear. With a flick of her claw and green smoky lights, vines snapped up from cracks in the floor and whipped behind the council table which rested on it's side. A cry went out as Igor was dragged from behind it over to the throne. He looked up into her eyes and froze. She stared into his soul then waved a dismissive claw.

“No... no place for you here. Perhaps with them.” Her vines released him and slithered back into the cracks. “Leave with the immortal ponies. I do not tolerate your kind.” Star noticed the faintest flicker of disgust on her beak. He wondered what was so bad about this griffon that even she would reject him. The Empress looked up at the Royal Sisters. “Time passes. I would joyfully welcome you and your children. Join me.” She glanced back to the still open door. “Or leave.”

Celestia and Luna shared a look, then they both shook their heads at the hippogriff. The white alicorn tilted her chin up. “We thank you for the offer, but our ponies enjoy their lives the way they are. We will leave.” They both gave a respectful nod to her.

The Red-Empress smiled at them. “May I know your names?”

The Sun-Goddess returned her smile, though strained. “I am Celestia.”

“I am Luna.” The Night-Goddess answered, cold as her namesake.

“Celestia and Luna. I am Fala.” She ignored the gasp of shock from her remaining druid. “We do not see eye to eye, but one day we shall embrace as silenas, ah, blood-sisters.” She stood and gestured towards the door. “Depart in peace.”

The alicorn sisters walked by her, followed by their two pegasi guards who eyed the hippogriff warily. The Empress tilted her head at the two young stallions. “A moment.” Confused, Star and Light glanced over at the Princesses who halted to watch, a bit of concern in their eyes. Then the colts looked up at the crimson-feathered hippogriff. “Unusual to see so many...” Her claw circled in the air, “Afterlife, lesser souls. They cling to you. Armored and angry.” She made spread her claws wide and interlocked the digits. “Like cobwebs, chains.” She waved her blooded clawed hand in their direction a few times, purple lines of light flickered through the air. Then she nodded with a satisfied smile. Star and Light both felt immediately more relaxed, as though a weight had been knocked from their shoulders. She lowered her voice so only they could hear. “A gift. You removed the stain from my house. It is pleasing to see them leave.” She looked them both in the eyes and Star swore he saw a flicker of admiration in their ageless depths. “You are both deathly loyal. Perhaps when we are one, I will earn that loyalty.” She sat back in her icy throne. “Leave in peace, consorts.”

Star and Lighthoof shared a glance, both of them so bewildered by the hippogriff that they didn't know what to say. They simply gave her a respectful bow before trotting over to their waiting Princesses. The four of them left the room with six of the remaining ten clan-leaders following and Igor slinking along behind them.

The Red-Empress lounged back in her makeshift throne, her clean claw gently stroking the top of Hilda's head, her other claw crusted with blood as she looked down at the four young clan-leaders who prostrated themselves at her hooves. She smiled to herself, noting that while the world had changed so much in her absence, the game of ruling had not. Her opening move had been made and now she waited for her opponents to make theirs.

Author's Notes:

Special Thanks to my editor Idylia. http://www.fimfiction.net/user/Idylia
Chapter got a little delayed, but I really hope you enjoyed it.
Please leave your thoughts and even your theories!