Huh interesting. I actually have a story being written and I have a more different approach on the gryphon tribes. The first are nomads, who craft and sell goods and make the up the breadbasket of the empire. The next tribe is the Royal Gryphons, defined by their white heads and different markings, and are the warrior tribe that respect honor and tradition. The final tribe, albeit smaller then the other two, is the Arch gryphons, who are the user of magic users, very religious, and hold vast knowledge over their empire. When it comes to magic, as they see it, they would only use it for certain means or wielding it for a specific purpose. When they see Equestria and it's almost daily use of magic, they and the rest of the gryphon empire consider it an abomination against nature, particularly against the Pegasus when they control the weather for their purpose, when the gryphons have no such ability. They also have powerful Arch gryphons know as Oracles, that can foresee the future, or receive visions for things to come. There is also a smaller tribe that does not get recognition due to their disabilities, and they are known as the demi-gryphons. They are wingless and it's difficult for them to produce heirs with wings due to genetics, but despite this, they are fearless when it comes to battle and will do anything to protect their fellow gryphons from any harm.



Another thing about the gryphons that I have respect others when they share their cultures between one another and they have many varied points of view that they can discuss. They also highly respect family lines of certain groups, particularly among the Royal gryphons, where they unsure they have a good bloodline that would produce the best heirs. Another factor that plays in is the politics between the parties and their pride for their nation. However, their pride can sometimes consume them and will build a mind set in achieving that goal until it is complete or if they are killed in the process. Some gryphons can get out of it, either through sheer will or being aided by friends, but it is a difficult road for those who take it alone.



Actually, when I think about all of this, my story that I'm working on is actually inspired by your First Contact war universe, but near the end of the whole war itself. ( To which I hope you don't me using that is.)