“Until yesterday, I had never heard of such a creature. Not even in Griffon legends, which the ponies have long forgotten. It may indeed be an inhabitant of a far-off planet." The elder griffon stepped to the center of the circle. His coat was crossed with old battle scars, and his left talon was missing a toe. “We now know that there was a magical spell which summoned one or more creatures to Equestria from somewhere else, and it is very likely that this is one of them. And it was rumored that long ago, the ponies had spells which let them travel to the sun and moon. Perhaps they have re-discovered and improved them. We must get this news to Canterlot quickly, and our allies will know what to do.” He turned to Gerard. “You were lucky to get in, and were fortunate that Princess Celestia's soldiers in Ponyville have drawn down. What do you think of the strategic situation around the embassy?”