Frankensteinby Pixel bronyChaptersArrivalBooksCongratulationsArrivalIt was late afternoon in Ponyville. Celestia's sun was a few hours away from the horizon, casting a golden glow over the town. A cold wind was blowing autumn leaves across the town. The few ponies who were out shivered in response and hurried along their way through town. In the town square, vendors were still shouting out their products in hopes of getting a few more customers before sundown. Applejack is one such vendor; however, instead of shouting her goods, she was packing up for the day. As she was loading the last of her unsold apples in her cart, she felt somepony tap on her shoulder. She turned to see Twilight."Well, howdy Twi!" greeted Applejack, before noticing Spike asleep on Twilight's back with a bulging stomach. "Is he okay?" she asked with a concerned expression."Oh, he's fine, just ate too much. I was hoping to catch you before you left for your farm, I underestimated how many apples I would need for my experiments.""Experiments?" asked Applejack as she lifted another basket into her cart."Yeah! I'm trying to teleport objects from a distance, and apples fit my predicted dimensions that should work for my small scale experiments," Twilight stated with a proud look that quickly changed to a bashful smile. "Except... I haven't had much success.""What do ya mean?" asked Applejack while lifting the last basket onto the cart and whipping the accumulated sweat from her brow."Well... So far all I've accomplished is a showy way to make applesauce," answered Twilight sheepishly. "That's kind of why Spike is indisposed at the moment. He's been eating the impromptu results." Spike gave a low moan and a twitch in response."Well, I'd be more than happy to sell 'ya some more apples," chuckled Applejack. "How many do 'ya need?""I think... I could get in about thirty more tries before bed.""Thirty apples comin' right up," nodded Applejack. She turned back to her cart and started to pick apples out of the baskets and put them into a bag. She stopped. It was then that she noticed how quiet it had become. All that could be heard was the rustling of the leaves in the wind, the shuffling of hooves, and an ominous creaking. Slowly, she turned back around to Twilight. The unicorn had her head turned towards the middle of the town square. Applejack followed her gaze and an immediate feeling of foreboding filled her being. In the center of the square was a large wagon. The wagon looked to have seen better days, if the cracks and creaking were any indication. It had enough things piled on it to fill a house. A tarp, bound by rope, covered the wagon and it's contents. The occupants of the square, who held open stares and questioning expressions, all focused on the wagon. But mostly, their attention was drawn to who pulled it. A diamond dog and a griffon were both harnessed to the front of the wagon. The diamond dog had a cloak wrapped around it's body; only its face, feet, and hands were visible. Its face drew disgusted looks from the ponies; from what was visible beyond the cloak, the snout and face looked to be disfigured and scarred. It also appeared to walk with a limp in its left leg, but it still managed to pull the wagon along effortlessly. The griffon was bigger than anypony in Ponyville had ever seen, and was much bigger than the dog at his side. He held himself with pride and kept a determined stare at the path before him. He was thin, but healthily so. He wore a simple white dress shirt and a brown vest over it, but it appeared to be torn, and worn out in many places. His plumage, or at least what was visible from under his shirt and vest, was white. He pulled the cart along easily enough, but signs of his fatigue were clearly visible. He ignored the stares he and his companion were getting, and trudged along. The wagon creaked slowly out of the square, down the road, and out of town towards the Everfree Forest. Once the cart and its owners were out of sight, the square erupted with hushed whispering. The vendors, noticing how long they had been there and how far down the sun was, packed up their wares for the day. Soon after, the ponies started to leave the square and head for their homes in what seemed to be a small rush. After a little while, all that remained in the square was Twilight, Applejack, Spike, and the apple cart. For a time, the two continued staring fearfully down the path the pair had taken. Suddenly, Applejack let out a tired sigh."Twilight...?" asked Applejack."Yes, Applejack," Twilight responded in a knowing way without looking. "I felt it too. Something’s going to happen, and those two are going to be right in the center of it.""I was afraid of that... Can you ask the Princess ta do anythin'? Can't she lock 'em up or somthin', ya know, to keep whatever gonna happen from happenin'?""I wish I could," Twilight said while turning to look at her friend, "but we can't lock up everypony we have a bad feeling about. I will send her a letter about this, asking her what to do. But past that..." Twilight shook her head, and turned to look back down the road. Applejack gave a long, tired sigh. She took one last look down the road, then turned back towards her cart. She saw the bag of apples still sitting on the edge of the cart. With a chuckle, she turned back towards Twilight."Ya still want your apples?""Hmm?" Twilight looked back at her friend, and saw the bag of apples Applejack was referring to. "Oh! Yes, of course. Sorry, got distracted there.""It's alright," Applejack chuckled while Twilight floated out the proper amount of bits. The two finished their exchange, said their goodbyes, and headed off towards their homes. The two had smiles plastered on their faces for most of their way home, but eventually, their thoughts turned back towards what had happened and what they had felt. Over the years, their link to the Elements of Harmony had taught them to recognize danger when it was about to happen. Although it had been many years since their last conflict, the feeling of danger was as clear as ever. The castle of the Royal Pony sisters sat in the Everfree Forest, alone and in ruins. It had been many years since it had had any visitors. The last time it did was back when Nightmare Moon had returned. The spirit of the castle had rejoiced when one of its mistresses returned. It had high hopes of being restored, of being of use again. Nightmare had promised to restore the castle to its former glory and beyond. It had watched as the Elements appeared, as the purple one had fought bravely against Nightmare. It watched as the new Elements took form, the same Elements that had been forged here. It watched as Nightmare Moon was defeated by the new Elements, and Luna was freed. It had hoped that she would remember her promise. When Celestia appeared, joy filled the spirit. It tried to talk with her, as Nightmare did, but Celestia ignored the spirit. The spirit felt betrayed, even hurt. If it could cry, it most surely would have. It tried to talk with Luna, to remind her of her promise. But Celestia blocked the spirit from talking with Luna. The spirit, desperate, tried talking with the Elements. The Elements did talk, but they were cruel. You are to be forgotten. The spirit lost all hope of being of use to the Sisters after that. It also gave up all loyalty to the Sisters that day as well. The Elements and Sisters left soon after. When they were fully gone from the castle, it sent out a cry. A cry for something worthy of making the castle their home. The cry went over all the lands, searching. After that, the castle sat in silence. Waiting, hoping, for something to claim it as a home. Day after day. Month after month. Year after year. It waited. None came. Not even the animals of the forest would make their homes in the castle. So the castle sat for a very long time. It was about to give up; let the forest take over, when the castle felt its front doors being opened. The spirit watched as a large white griffon and a diamond dog made their way into the castle."What do you think, master? Will this place serve your purposes?" The spirit felt joy fill itself at the prospect of being useful once again, and accepted them desperately. The griffon smiled as he looked around the castle. He turned to the dog."I believe we have found our new home, Igor." Responded the griffon in a tired voice."Yes, master." Books~One Week Later~ "Aaah... good tea as always spike." Complemented Twilight. "Well, with as much as you drink, I'd would be kinda hard not to be good at it by now." Chuckled spike. Twilight gave a roll of her eyes as the dragon walked away from her position on the couch. Twilight looked around the library as she sat. Empty as always, thought the unicorn. Not many ponies came to the library nowadays. Either out of no need for books, or out of intimidation. The unicorn did not know which. Since the time she first acquired her new title of element bearer, she and her friends had fought many foes. At first, many ponies celebrated her accomplishments with countrywide parties. But over time, the ponies around her began to grow a tad fearful of her. Mostly because of her tendencies to bring trouble wherever she went. Now, to say any of this was her fault, is a lie. But some do think, mainly a certain purple unicorn, that the elements bring her and her friends to face the evil, or... bring it to them. She gave a small sigh, then took a sip of her tea. She looked around the library once more, before pulling a few books off the shelves with her magic, and setting them on the table before her. Might as well do something with my overabundance amount of time. She then closed her eyes in concentration, a door was heard opening upstairs, then a notebook floated down the steps, and landed before her. She opened her eyes and opened the notebook. Just as she was about to pick up a quill, the bell above the front door sounded. Who could that be? Thought the unicorn as she stood from her spot on the couch. She made her way over to the front of the library, and who she found there made her stop in her tracks. It's that griffon! Said griffon was slowly pursuing the shelf closest to the door. She found herself frozen on the spot, eyes wide. She knew the griffon was big, but seeing him up close, made that fact very known. How did he fit in here? He looked the same as he did, same worn vest and shirt, only a little less tired. As she kept staring, the griffon kept searching the shelves, not noticing Twilight in the least. I need to talk to him. But I really don't want to... With a gulp, she moved forward a few paces. "E-excuse me, sir? Is there something I can help you with?" The griffon turned to look at her, and she couldn't help but feel really small at that moment. The griffon turned fully towards her before speaking. "Yes, I was wondering where your non-fiction section is?" "It's right in here" Said Twilight as she stepped aside and pointed into the previous room. "Thank you Miss...?" "Twilight... Twilight Sparkle." "Thank you Twilight sparkle, I am Victor Frankenstein. It's a pleasure to meet you." Responded Victor with a bow. "Oh, um... I-it's no problem, just call if you need something." "Will do miss sparkle, will do", Said Victor as he walked past. Twilight watched as the griffon perused the shelves for a bit, pulling a few down, putting some back, and repeating the process. He seems nice enough, maybe... Twilight bit her lower lip. But I've never had that feeling, and had it be wrong. I need to have the girls speak with him as well. She then left her spot at the entry way, and made for the kitchen. She entered the kitchen to find spike sitting at the table, stuffing his face full of gems. "Spike! I need you to-" BANG "Twilight!" Twilight left the kitchen and ran for the front door. Standing there, panting and sweating, was Rainbow Dash. The rainbow mare looked scared and frantic. Her eyes were wide and her wings were splayed out behind her. Once she caught sight of her friend, her body seemed to relax. "Rainbow? What's wrong?" Asked Twilight as she moved closer to Rainbow Dash. "Cheerilee! Lightning! Bad! Come quick!" Spouted Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow! Calm down! You're not making any sense!" Rainbow dash took a few deep breaths. "Cheerilee was hit by lightning! She's not breathing!" "What!?" Screamed Twilight in response. "How did-" "Take me to her." The pair turned to see the griffon walking up behind Twilight. "Wh-" "There's no time for questions!" Bellowed the griffon. "Take me to her! Time is of the essence!" "A-a-alright! Let's go!" Rainbow stuttered, as she turned, and flew out the open door. The griffon jumped over Twilight, who ducked and 'Eep'ed in response, and sped out the door. After the griffon had left, Twilight got off the floor and stared dumbfounded out the door. "Where did the incident take place?" Yelled the griffon at Rainbow Dash from where he was running on the ground. "Just outside of town! By her house!" The griffon took a quick look at the sky. "There's no rain clouds out. How did she get hit by lightning." "Me and the rest of the weather patrol was moving a stray storm away from Ponyville, a stray cloud got away from the group, and Cheerilee got hit." "I see, has someone contacted the hospital yet?" "Yeah! I sent Scoots! She should be there by now!" The griffon didn't respond. Rainbow flew a bit further along, and higher up. They were almost almost there. She looked down at the griffon as he ran down the road, ponies jumping and running out of his way. Why isn't he flying!? Were taking too long! Rainbow flew down to fly next to the griffon. "Hey! Running is taking too long! Why aren't you flying there!?" "Observe the obvious." Responded the griffon with a dip of his head. Rainbow looked at his back. Rainbow gasped at what she saw. Where are his wings!? "Is that it?" "What?" "IS THAT IT UP AHEAD?!" Rainbow shook her head and turned to look forward. A small crowd stood in a circle in front of a house. "Yeah that's it!" With that response the griffon charged forward. "MOVE!" He roared when he was but feet from the crowd. The crowd instantly parted. In the center of it was a dark pink earth pony laying on her side, she was not moving. a metal rod with a hook on the end layed nearby. The griffon came to a hard stop a foot away fromt the pony. He immediately reached for her neck, and held two talons against her throat. He pulled his talon away and then grabbed her head. He opened her mouth and tilted his head next to her mouth. "Damn!" He cursed as he put booth talons on her chest, and began to press down in a rhythmic pattern. He then grabbed her head again, he pinched her nose, and started to breath into her. He repeated the process a few times. The ponies around him began to murmur, and encircle to pair. The griffon took notice. "Keep these ponies back!" He yelled. Rainbow Dash flew in, and started pushing ponies away. "You heard him! Back!" The crowd immediately backed off, not wanting to get on the mares bad side. The griffon kept the process up for a bit longer. The griffon kept up the process a few more times. "Damn it! This isn't working..." The griffon then looked up and around. " IGOR!" "You called, master?" The robed diamond dog asked from the middle of the crowed, a few ponies screamed in response from the dogs sudden appearance. "I need my defibrillator, do you have my bag with you?" "Right here, master!" The dog presented the bag from behind his back as he walked forward. "Good, bring it here." The dog gave the bag to the griffon, who hastily opened it. He rooted around in it for a second,keeping one talon on the mares chest, before pulling out a strange wooden box with a crank on the side, and wires coming out of it. The griffon stopped pushing on the mare chest, and set the box down on the ground. He grabbed the mare, and turned her onto her back. "Turn the crank, and don't stop till I tell you to!" "Can do." Responded the dog as he grabbed the crank and started to turn it. The griffon grabbed two wires that ended with flat pieces of metal in each talon. As the dog cranked the box, a light on the top lit up. The griffon, seeing the light, tapped the two metal ends together. A loud crack sounded out as sparks flew from the metal. The light dimmed, then lit back up. The griffon looked back down at the mare. "Clear!" The griffon shouted as he touched the two pieces of metal to the mare. Her body convulsed for a few seconds, till the griffon pulled the metal away. The light had significantly dimmed, but was slowly coming back as the dog turned the crank. The griffon held the metal pieces away from himself, and leaned his head down onto the mares chest. He held his head there for a moment, before cursing, and pulling his head up. "Again!" He looked down at the light, it was full again. "Clear!" The mare convulsed again, but this time, as he pulled the metal parts away, the mare gasped for air. She laid on her back as she gasped for air, coughing afterwards. She looked around with a scared expression. "Igor, stop!" The griffon yelled as he set down the wires, apart from each other. "Where... what..." The griffon gently held her down with one talon on her chest. "It's alright miss, I need you to remain calm. Just breath, okay? Focus on breathing." The griffon then gave a glance around the crowd, then turned his attention back to the mare. "Everythings going to be alright..." CongratulationsAfter hearing what had happened, through one way or another, all six element bearers had shown up one after another. They had all come to give their assistance, Fluttershy had even showed up with a first aid kit. But, when they showed up, they saw that a strange griffon was already caring for the teacher. They all now stood in a semi-circle next to each other and looked on in silence as Cheerilee was loaded onto a medical Carriage. The griffon was of to one side talking with a doctor. "Ah don't get it." Muttered Applejack. "Get what, darling?" Asked Rarity. "How ah'm getting this bad feeling from that guy, but then he goes out of his way to save someponies' life." Twilight gave a nod of her head. "I know what you mean, that tattered vest and shirt is atrocious. I simply must ask him to come by my shop for a fitting." "What!?" A flabbergasted Applejack and Twilight yelled in unison. "What do you mean 'what'? He saved Cheerilee's life, the least I could do is give him a new shirt. Seeing as that one looks about to fall apart, poor dear." "Poor dear!?" Hissed Twilight. "Aren't you getting that feeling from him?" "I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about, darling. The only feeling I'm having right now is gratitude for him helping Cheerilee, which is how you should be feeling Twilight, honestly." "You mean... You aren't getting that feeling?" Twilight asked with wide eyes. "Fluttershy, how do you feel about him?" "Uh... Well... He, um... Looks a bit scary... but he did save Cheerilee's life... so, um... Eeep!" "UGH!" Twilight stomped a hoof. She looked over to Rainbow Dash, who was floating a few feet into the air. "Rainbow, you agree with Applejack and I, right?" "I think he's pretty cool." "Exactly! He's pretty co- wait... what!?" "Yeah, the way he sped over here to help, even though him and Cheerilee are strangers. And that box thing he used? Awesome." "ARGH! Pinkie,what do you think?" Twilight turned to look where Pinkie had been standing, but she wasn't there. "Pinkie?" The group looked around for a second. "There she is!" Called out Rainbow Dash while pointing with a hoof. The group turned the direction Rainbow was pointing, Twilight and Applejack gasped, Rarity rolled her eyes at her friends behavior. Pinkie was talking to the griffon, as was Mayor Mare. Twilight and Applejack both stared with their mouths open. Rarity scoffed and walked in front of the group. "Honestly, you two. You'd think the world was going to end over a strong breeze if your 'feeling' told you so. As for me, I'm going to say hello, and offer him my gratitude." With that, the fashionista trotted over to where Pinkie and the mayor were conversing with the griffon. "... Seeing as today is Saturday, you can start Monday morning." Finished Mayor Mare. "That should not be a problem, Miss Mare." "Yeah! That also means that you can enjoy the party tonight without having to worry about getting up early!" "And what would tonight's party be for, Pinkie?" Asked Rarity as she closed in on the group. "It's a you-saved-Cheerilee's-life-welcome-to-Ponyville party for Victor here!" Answered Pinkie while pointing a hoof at the griffon. "Well, again, thank you for your actions today Victor." Said Mayor Mare while extending a hoof. The griffon grabbed her hoof and gently shook it. "I'll meet you in front of the school Monday morning." "Till then, Miss Mare." The griffon let go of the mayor's hoof, she gave a simple goodbye to Pinkie and Rarity before departing. "Well, I need to go prepare for tonight's party, I'll see you guys later!" Pinkie Pie said before bouncing away. The griffon gave a little sigh, he shook his head, and let out a small chuckle. "Miss Pinkie is nice, but she is a tad tiring." Commented the griffon as he turned to Rarity. "She can be, but she is a dear friend to us all." "I can see that." A sudden look of realization crossed the griffons face. "I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I don't know your name." "It's no trouble, darling. My name is Rarity, and yours?" She asked while offering a hoof. "Victor, Victor Frankenstein, Miss Rarity." The griffon gently took the outstretched hoof in his talon, and gave it a light kiss before letting go. "Oh my! What a gentlestallion!" Rarity responded while fluttering her eyelashes. "Beauty deserves the utmost in return for letting us peasants look upon it." The griffon retorted with a smile. "And a flatter to boot!" Giggled Rarity. "I only speak the truth, Miss Rarity." The griffon responded with a bow. "I... don't mean to come across as rude, but was there something I could help you with?" "Think nothing of it, darling. I just wished to give my thanks for helping Cheerilee." "No thanks are needed. I just did what any other doctor should do in that situation." "Oh my! A gentlestallion and a doctor? I dare say you are the entire package, Mr. Frankenstein." "No who's flattering whom?" Chuckled the griffon. "And please, call me Victor." "Alright, Victor, as an extension of my thanks, I would be honored if you would allow me the pleasure of making you a new vest and shirt, perhaps a full suit?" Rarity put a hoof to her chin in thought for a second. The griffon looked taken aback at Rarity's statement, then guilty. "I-I would like nothing more than to have a new set of clothes, but I'm afraid to say I would have no way to pay you." "I would never ask for money from the very po- I mean, griffon that saved a friend of mine." "Oh Miss Rarity I cou-" "Ah, ah! I will not take no for an answer! This is a gift from me to you." "W-well if you insist..." "I do. Now come along Victor." Rarity said as she turned to leave. "Uh... I..." The griffon sighed, then chuckled. "Alright then, lead the way Miss Rarity." Rarity let off a small series of giggles at the griffon's slight befuddlement. The griffon walked up next to Rarity and the two set off. The two walked in silence for a little while, till curiosity crept up on the fashionesta. "Victor..." "Yes, Miss Rarity?" "If I may be so bold to ask, what was the mayor referring to about monday morning?" "Oh, Well, when the mayor came up to thank me for saving Miss Cheerilee, and while we were talking she happened to mention that Miss Cheerilee was the school teacher for this town's children. I inquired further, and she told me that school would have to be closed for a few days while she waited for a substitute to come from Canterlot. I mentioned to her that I needed a job, and that I was qualified, if not more so, to teach the children while Miss Cheerilee was in the hospital. She asked me a few questions about my qualifications, I answered them to the best of my abilities, she then accepted my proposal, and now I am going to teach the children till Miss Cheerilee gets better in a week or two, depending on how extensive the damage was, that is." "Wow... To be blunt, that was a mouth full." "To be brutally honest, you asked." Chuckled the griffon. "I guess I did, didn't I?" Giggled Rarity in response. "If you don't mind, may I ask about your qualifications?" "You asked... In my youth, I studied the alchemist works of Cornelius Agrippa, Paracelsus, and Albertus Magnus, those are famous griffon alchemists. I studied at the University of Ingolstadt in the Griffon Kingdom's capital. I studied chemistry mainly, as well as other scientific courses." "My, it seems that you and Twilight would get along swimmingly." Giggled Rarity. "You mean the librarian?" "Ah, So you've met her." "We have met, yes. But, I couldn't help but feel that she doesn't like me being here." "What do you mean, Darling?" "Well... When Igor, my assistant, and I entered town, the residents looked upon us with curiosity and fear. I spotted her out of the corner of my eye, and she appeared to look at me with... hate." "Well... to be honest, from first appearance you do appear a little... scary, I think is the right word." "I guess I would look that way to ponies who don't know." The griffon said with a sad look. "What do you mean, darling?" She asked with concern on her face. "I... I'd rather not talk about it." Although curiosity burned within her, she knew better than to press for more. She turned her attention forward, and noticed they were almost to the boutique. The two walked in silence the rest of the way. When they were but a few feet from the door, Rarity trotted forward, and stood next to the door with a hoof on the door knob. She put on a smile and looked back at the griffon. "Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything is chic, unique, and magnifique!" She proclaimed as she opened the door for the griffon. The griffon hesitated for a second. He opened his beak as if to talk, but stopped himself. He chuckled, and with a bow entered the boutique.
ArrivalIt was late afternoon in Ponyville. Celestia's sun was a few hours away from the horizon, casting a golden glow over the town. A cold wind was blowing autumn leaves across the town. The few ponies who were out shivered in response and hurried along their way through town. In the town square, vendors were still shouting out their products in hopes of getting a few more customers before sundown. Applejack is one such vendor; however, instead of shouting her goods, she was packing up for the day. As she was loading the last of her unsold apples in her cart, she felt somepony tap on her shoulder. She turned to see Twilight."Well, howdy Twi!" greeted Applejack, before noticing Spike asleep on Twilight's back with a bulging stomach. "Is he okay?" she asked with a concerned expression."Oh, he's fine, just ate too much. I was hoping to catch you before you left for your farm, I underestimated how many apples I would need for my experiments.""Experiments?" asked Applejack as she lifted another basket into her cart."Yeah! I'm trying to teleport objects from a distance, and apples fit my predicted dimensions that should work for my small scale experiments," Twilight stated with a proud look that quickly changed to a bashful smile. "Except... I haven't had much success.""What do ya mean?" asked Applejack while lifting the last basket onto the cart and whipping the accumulated sweat from her brow."Well... So far all I've accomplished is a showy way to make applesauce," answered Twilight sheepishly. "That's kind of why Spike is indisposed at the moment. He's been eating the impromptu results." Spike gave a low moan and a twitch in response."Well, I'd be more than happy to sell 'ya some more apples," chuckled Applejack. "How many do 'ya need?""I think... I could get in about thirty more tries before bed.""Thirty apples comin' right up," nodded Applejack. She turned back to her cart and started to pick apples out of the baskets and put them into a bag. She stopped. It was then that she noticed how quiet it had become. All that could be heard was the rustling of the leaves in the wind, the shuffling of hooves, and an ominous creaking. Slowly, she turned back around to Twilight. The unicorn had her head turned towards the middle of the town square. Applejack followed her gaze and an immediate feeling of foreboding filled her being. In the center of the square was a large wagon. The wagon looked to have seen better days, if the cracks and creaking were any indication. It had enough things piled on it to fill a house. A tarp, bound by rope, covered the wagon and it's contents. The occupants of the square, who held open stares and questioning expressions, all focused on the wagon. But mostly, their attention was drawn to who pulled it. A diamond dog and a griffon were both harnessed to the front of the wagon. The diamond dog had a cloak wrapped around it's body; only its face, feet, and hands were visible. Its face drew disgusted looks from the ponies; from what was visible beyond the cloak, the snout and face looked to be disfigured and scarred. It also appeared to walk with a limp in its left leg, but it still managed to pull the wagon along effortlessly. The griffon was bigger than anypony in Ponyville had ever seen, and was much bigger than the dog at his side. He held himself with pride and kept a determined stare at the path before him. He was thin, but healthily so. He wore a simple white dress shirt and a brown vest over it, but it appeared to be torn, and worn out in many places. His plumage, or at least what was visible from under his shirt and vest, was white. He pulled the cart along easily enough, but signs of his fatigue were clearly visible. He ignored the stares he and his companion were getting, and trudged along. The wagon creaked slowly out of the square, down the road, and out of town towards the Everfree Forest. Once the cart and its owners were out of sight, the square erupted with hushed whispering. The vendors, noticing how long they had been there and how far down the sun was, packed up their wares for the day. Soon after, the ponies started to leave the square and head for their homes in what seemed to be a small rush. After a little while, all that remained in the square was Twilight, Applejack, Spike, and the apple cart. For a time, the two continued staring fearfully down the path the pair had taken. Suddenly, Applejack let out a tired sigh."Twilight...?" asked Applejack."Yes, Applejack," Twilight responded in a knowing way without looking. "I felt it too. Something’s going to happen, and those two are going to be right in the center of it.""I was afraid of that... Can you ask the Princess ta do anythin'? Can't she lock 'em up or somthin', ya know, to keep whatever gonna happen from happenin'?""I wish I could," Twilight said while turning to look at her friend, "but we can't lock up everypony we have a bad feeling about. I will send her a letter about this, asking her what to do. But past that..." Twilight shook her head, and turned to look back down the road. Applejack gave a long, tired sigh. She took one last look down the road, then turned back towards her cart. She saw the bag of apples still sitting on the edge of the cart. With a chuckle, she turned back towards Twilight."Ya still want your apples?""Hmm?" Twilight looked back at her friend, and saw the bag of apples Applejack was referring to. "Oh! Yes, of course. Sorry, got distracted there.""It's alright," Applejack chuckled while Twilight floated out the proper amount of bits. The two finished their exchange, said their goodbyes, and headed off towards their homes. The two had smiles plastered on their faces for most of their way home, but eventually, their thoughts turned back towards what had happened and what they had felt. Over the years, their link to the Elements of Harmony had taught them to recognize danger when it was about to happen. Although it had been many years since their last conflict, the feeling of danger was as clear as ever. The castle of the Royal Pony sisters sat in the Everfree Forest, alone and in ruins. It had been many years since it had had any visitors. The last time it did was back when Nightmare Moon had returned. The spirit of the castle had rejoiced when one of its mistresses returned. It had high hopes of being restored, of being of use again. Nightmare had promised to restore the castle to its former glory and beyond. It had watched as the Elements appeared, as the purple one had fought bravely against Nightmare. It watched as the new Elements took form, the same Elements that had been forged here. It watched as Nightmare Moon was defeated by the new Elements, and Luna was freed. It had hoped that she would remember her promise. When Celestia appeared, joy filled the spirit. It tried to talk with her, as Nightmare did, but Celestia ignored the spirit. The spirit felt betrayed, even hurt. If it could cry, it most surely would have. It tried to talk with Luna, to remind her of her promise. But Celestia blocked the spirit from talking with Luna. The spirit, desperate, tried talking with the Elements. The Elements did talk, but they were cruel. You are to be forgotten. The spirit lost all hope of being of use to the Sisters after that. It also gave up all loyalty to the Sisters that day as well. The Elements and Sisters left soon after. When they were fully gone from the castle, it sent out a cry. A cry for something worthy of making the castle their home. The cry went over all the lands, searching. After that, the castle sat in silence. Waiting, hoping, for something to claim it as a home. Day after day. Month after month. Year after year. It waited. None came. Not even the animals of the forest would make their homes in the castle. So the castle sat for a very long time. It was about to give up; let the forest take over, when the castle felt its front doors being opened. The spirit watched as a large white griffon and a diamond dog made their way into the castle."What do you think, master? Will this place serve your purposes?" The spirit felt joy fill itself at the prospect of being useful once again, and accepted them desperately. The griffon smiled as he looked around the castle. He turned to the dog."I believe we have found our new home, Igor." Responded the griffon in a tired voice."Yes, master."
Books~One Week Later~ "Aaah... good tea as always spike." Complemented Twilight. "Well, with as much as you drink, I'd would be kinda hard not to be good at it by now." Chuckled spike. Twilight gave a roll of her eyes as the dragon walked away from her position on the couch. Twilight looked around the library as she sat. Empty as always, thought the unicorn. Not many ponies came to the library nowadays. Either out of no need for books, or out of intimidation. The unicorn did not know which. Since the time she first acquired her new title of element bearer, she and her friends had fought many foes. At first, many ponies celebrated her accomplishments with countrywide parties. But over time, the ponies around her began to grow a tad fearful of her. Mostly because of her tendencies to bring trouble wherever she went. Now, to say any of this was her fault, is a lie. But some do think, mainly a certain purple unicorn, that the elements bring her and her friends to face the evil, or... bring it to them. She gave a small sigh, then took a sip of her tea. She looked around the library once more, before pulling a few books off the shelves with her magic, and setting them on the table before her. Might as well do something with my overabundance amount of time. She then closed her eyes in concentration, a door was heard opening upstairs, then a notebook floated down the steps, and landed before her. She opened her eyes and opened the notebook. Just as she was about to pick up a quill, the bell above the front door sounded. Who could that be? Thought the unicorn as she stood from her spot on the couch. She made her way over to the front of the library, and who she found there made her stop in her tracks. It's that griffon! Said griffon was slowly pursuing the shelf closest to the door. She found herself frozen on the spot, eyes wide. She knew the griffon was big, but seeing him up close, made that fact very known. How did he fit in here? He looked the same as he did, same worn vest and shirt, only a little less tired. As she kept staring, the griffon kept searching the shelves, not noticing Twilight in the least. I need to talk to him. But I really don't want to... With a gulp, she moved forward a few paces. "E-excuse me, sir? Is there something I can help you with?" The griffon turned to look at her, and she couldn't help but feel really small at that moment. The griffon turned fully towards her before speaking. "Yes, I was wondering where your non-fiction section is?" "It's right in here" Said Twilight as she stepped aside and pointed into the previous room. "Thank you Miss...?" "Twilight... Twilight Sparkle." "Thank you Twilight sparkle, I am Victor Frankenstein. It's a pleasure to meet you." Responded Victor with a bow. "Oh, um... I-it's no problem, just call if you need something." "Will do miss sparkle, will do", Said Victor as he walked past. Twilight watched as the griffon perused the shelves for a bit, pulling a few down, putting some back, and repeating the process. He seems nice enough, maybe... Twilight bit her lower lip. But I've never had that feeling, and had it be wrong. I need to have the girls speak with him as well. She then left her spot at the entry way, and made for the kitchen. She entered the kitchen to find spike sitting at the table, stuffing his face full of gems. "Spike! I need you to-" BANG "Twilight!" Twilight left the kitchen and ran for the front door. Standing there, panting and sweating, was Rainbow Dash. The rainbow mare looked scared and frantic. Her eyes were wide and her wings were splayed out behind her. Once she caught sight of her friend, her body seemed to relax. "Rainbow? What's wrong?" Asked Twilight as she moved closer to Rainbow Dash. "Cheerilee! Lightning! Bad! Come quick!" Spouted Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow! Calm down! You're not making any sense!" Rainbow dash took a few deep breaths. "Cheerilee was hit by lightning! She's not breathing!" "What!?" Screamed Twilight in response. "How did-" "Take me to her." The pair turned to see the griffon walking up behind Twilight. "Wh-" "There's no time for questions!" Bellowed the griffon. "Take me to her! Time is of the essence!" "A-a-alright! Let's go!" Rainbow stuttered, as she turned, and flew out the open door. The griffon jumped over Twilight, who ducked and 'Eep'ed in response, and sped out the door. After the griffon had left, Twilight got off the floor and stared dumbfounded out the door. "Where did the incident take place?" Yelled the griffon at Rainbow Dash from where he was running on the ground. "Just outside of town! By her house!" The griffon took a quick look at the sky. "There's no rain clouds out. How did she get hit by lightning." "Me and the rest of the weather patrol was moving a stray storm away from Ponyville, a stray cloud got away from the group, and Cheerilee got hit." "I see, has someone contacted the hospital yet?" "Yeah! I sent Scoots! She should be there by now!" The griffon didn't respond. Rainbow flew a bit further along, and higher up. They were almost almost there. She looked down at the griffon as he ran down the road, ponies jumping and running out of his way. Why isn't he flying!? Were taking too long! Rainbow flew down to fly next to the griffon. "Hey! Running is taking too long! Why aren't you flying there!?" "Observe the obvious." Responded the griffon with a dip of his head. Rainbow looked at his back. Rainbow gasped at what she saw. Where are his wings!? "Is that it?" "What?" "IS THAT IT UP AHEAD?!" Rainbow shook her head and turned to look forward. A small crowd stood in a circle in front of a house. "Yeah that's it!" With that response the griffon charged forward. "MOVE!" He roared when he was but feet from the crowd. The crowd instantly parted. In the center of it was a dark pink earth pony laying on her side, she was not moving. a metal rod with a hook on the end layed nearby. The griffon came to a hard stop a foot away fromt the pony. He immediately reached for her neck, and held two talons against her throat. He pulled his talon away and then grabbed her head. He opened her mouth and tilted his head next to her mouth. "Damn!" He cursed as he put booth talons on her chest, and began to press down in a rhythmic pattern. He then grabbed her head again, he pinched her nose, and started to breath into her. He repeated the process a few times. The ponies around him began to murmur, and encircle to pair. The griffon took notice. "Keep these ponies back!" He yelled. Rainbow Dash flew in, and started pushing ponies away. "You heard him! Back!" The crowd immediately backed off, not wanting to get on the mares bad side. The griffon kept the process up for a bit longer. The griffon kept up the process a few more times. "Damn it! This isn't working..." The griffon then looked up and around. " IGOR!" "You called, master?" The robed diamond dog asked from the middle of the crowed, a few ponies screamed in response from the dogs sudden appearance. "I need my defibrillator, do you have my bag with you?" "Right here, master!" The dog presented the bag from behind his back as he walked forward. "Good, bring it here." The dog gave the bag to the griffon, who hastily opened it. He rooted around in it for a second,keeping one talon on the mares chest, before pulling out a strange wooden box with a crank on the side, and wires coming out of it. The griffon stopped pushing on the mare chest, and set the box down on the ground. He grabbed the mare, and turned her onto her back. "Turn the crank, and don't stop till I tell you to!" "Can do." Responded the dog as he grabbed the crank and started to turn it. The griffon grabbed two wires that ended with flat pieces of metal in each talon. As the dog cranked the box, a light on the top lit up. The griffon, seeing the light, tapped the two metal ends together. A loud crack sounded out as sparks flew from the metal. The light dimmed, then lit back up. The griffon looked back down at the mare. "Clear!" The griffon shouted as he touched the two pieces of metal to the mare. Her body convulsed for a few seconds, till the griffon pulled the metal away. The light had significantly dimmed, but was slowly coming back as the dog turned the crank. The griffon held the metal pieces away from himself, and leaned his head down onto the mares chest. He held his head there for a moment, before cursing, and pulling his head up. "Again!" He looked down at the light, it was full again. "Clear!" The mare convulsed again, but this time, as he pulled the metal parts away, the mare gasped for air. She laid on her back as she gasped for air, coughing afterwards. She looked around with a scared expression. "Igor, stop!" The griffon yelled as he set down the wires, apart from each other. "Where... what..." The griffon gently held her down with one talon on her chest. "It's alright miss, I need you to remain calm. Just breath, okay? Focus on breathing." The griffon then gave a glance around the crowd, then turned his attention back to the mare. "Everythings going to be alright..."
CongratulationsAfter hearing what had happened, through one way or another, all six element bearers had shown up one after another. They had all come to give their assistance, Fluttershy had even showed up with a first aid kit. But, when they showed up, they saw that a strange griffon was already caring for the teacher. They all now stood in a semi-circle next to each other and looked on in silence as Cheerilee was loaded onto a medical Carriage. The griffon was of to one side talking with a doctor. "Ah don't get it." Muttered Applejack. "Get what, darling?" Asked Rarity. "How ah'm getting this bad feeling from that guy, but then he goes out of his way to save someponies' life." Twilight gave a nod of her head. "I know what you mean, that tattered vest and shirt is atrocious. I simply must ask him to come by my shop for a fitting." "What!?" A flabbergasted Applejack and Twilight yelled in unison. "What do you mean 'what'? He saved Cheerilee's life, the least I could do is give him a new shirt. Seeing as that one looks about to fall apart, poor dear." "Poor dear!?" Hissed Twilight. "Aren't you getting that feeling from him?" "I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about, darling. The only feeling I'm having right now is gratitude for him helping Cheerilee, which is how you should be feeling Twilight, honestly." "You mean... You aren't getting that feeling?" Twilight asked with wide eyes. "Fluttershy, how do you feel about him?" "Uh... Well... He, um... Looks a bit scary... but he did save Cheerilee's life... so, um... Eeep!" "UGH!" Twilight stomped a hoof. She looked over to Rainbow Dash, who was floating a few feet into the air. "Rainbow, you agree with Applejack and I, right?" "I think he's pretty cool." "Exactly! He's pretty co- wait... what!?" "Yeah, the way he sped over here to help, even though him and Cheerilee are strangers. And that box thing he used? Awesome." "ARGH! Pinkie,what do you think?" Twilight turned to look where Pinkie had been standing, but she wasn't there. "Pinkie?" The group looked around for a second. "There she is!" Called out Rainbow Dash while pointing with a hoof. The group turned the direction Rainbow was pointing, Twilight and Applejack gasped, Rarity rolled her eyes at her friends behavior. Pinkie was talking to the griffon, as was Mayor Mare. Twilight and Applejack both stared with their mouths open. Rarity scoffed and walked in front of the group. "Honestly, you two. You'd think the world was going to end over a strong breeze if your 'feeling' told you so. As for me, I'm going to say hello, and offer him my gratitude." With that, the fashionista trotted over to where Pinkie and the mayor were conversing with the griffon. "... Seeing as today is Saturday, you can start Monday morning." Finished Mayor Mare. "That should not be a problem, Miss Mare." "Yeah! That also means that you can enjoy the party tonight without having to worry about getting up early!" "And what would tonight's party be for, Pinkie?" Asked Rarity as she closed in on the group. "It's a you-saved-Cheerilee's-life-welcome-to-Ponyville party for Victor here!" Answered Pinkie while pointing a hoof at the griffon. "Well, again, thank you for your actions today Victor." Said Mayor Mare while extending a hoof. The griffon grabbed her hoof and gently shook it. "I'll meet you in front of the school Monday morning." "Till then, Miss Mare." The griffon let go of the mayor's hoof, she gave a simple goodbye to Pinkie and Rarity before departing. "Well, I need to go prepare for tonight's party, I'll see you guys later!" Pinkie Pie said before bouncing away. The griffon gave a little sigh, he shook his head, and let out a small chuckle. "Miss Pinkie is nice, but she is a tad tiring." Commented the griffon as he turned to Rarity. "She can be, but she is a dear friend to us all." "I can see that." A sudden look of realization crossed the griffons face. "I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I don't know your name." "It's no trouble, darling. My name is Rarity, and yours?" She asked while offering a hoof. "Victor, Victor Frankenstein, Miss Rarity." The griffon gently took the outstretched hoof in his talon, and gave it a light kiss before letting go. "Oh my! What a gentlestallion!" Rarity responded while fluttering her eyelashes. "Beauty deserves the utmost in return for letting us peasants look upon it." The griffon retorted with a smile. "And a flatter to boot!" Giggled Rarity. "I only speak the truth, Miss Rarity." The griffon responded with a bow. "I... don't mean to come across as rude, but was there something I could help you with?" "Think nothing of it, darling. I just wished to give my thanks for helping Cheerilee." "No thanks are needed. I just did what any other doctor should do in that situation." "Oh my! A gentlestallion and a doctor? I dare say you are the entire package, Mr. Frankenstein." "No who's flattering whom?" Chuckled the griffon. "And please, call me Victor." "Alright, Victor, as an extension of my thanks, I would be honored if you would allow me the pleasure of making you a new vest and shirt, perhaps a full suit?" Rarity put a hoof to her chin in thought for a second. The griffon looked taken aback at Rarity's statement, then guilty. "I-I would like nothing more than to have a new set of clothes, but I'm afraid to say I would have no way to pay you." "I would never ask for money from the very po- I mean, griffon that saved a friend of mine." "Oh Miss Rarity I cou-" "Ah, ah! I will not take no for an answer! This is a gift from me to you." "W-well if you insist..." "I do. Now come along Victor." Rarity said as she turned to leave. "Uh... I..." The griffon sighed, then chuckled. "Alright then, lead the way Miss Rarity." Rarity let off a small series of giggles at the griffon's slight befuddlement. The griffon walked up next to Rarity and the two set off. The two walked in silence for a little while, till curiosity crept up on the fashionesta. "Victor..." "Yes, Miss Rarity?" "If I may be so bold to ask, what was the mayor referring to about monday morning?" "Oh, Well, when the mayor came up to thank me for saving Miss Cheerilee, and while we were talking she happened to mention that Miss Cheerilee was the school teacher for this town's children. I inquired further, and she told me that school would have to be closed for a few days while she waited for a substitute to come from Canterlot. I mentioned to her that I needed a job, and that I was qualified, if not more so, to teach the children while Miss Cheerilee was in the hospital. She asked me a few questions about my qualifications, I answered them to the best of my abilities, she then accepted my proposal, and now I am going to teach the children till Miss Cheerilee gets better in a week or two, depending on how extensive the damage was, that is." "Wow... To be blunt, that was a mouth full." "To be brutally honest, you asked." Chuckled the griffon. "I guess I did, didn't I?" Giggled Rarity in response. "If you don't mind, may I ask about your qualifications?" "You asked... In my youth, I studied the alchemist works of Cornelius Agrippa, Paracelsus, and Albertus Magnus, those are famous griffon alchemists. I studied at the University of Ingolstadt in the Griffon Kingdom's capital. I studied chemistry mainly, as well as other scientific courses." "My, it seems that you and Twilight would get along swimmingly." Giggled Rarity. "You mean the librarian?" "Ah, So you've met her." "We have met, yes. But, I couldn't help but feel that she doesn't like me being here." "What do you mean, Darling?" "Well... When Igor, my assistant, and I entered town, the residents looked upon us with curiosity and fear. I spotted her out of the corner of my eye, and she appeared to look at me with... hate." "Well... to be honest, from first appearance you do appear a little... scary, I think is the right word." "I guess I would look that way to ponies who don't know." The griffon said with a sad look. "What do you mean, darling?" She asked with concern on her face. "I... I'd rather not talk about it." Although curiosity burned within her, she knew better than to press for more. She turned her attention forward, and noticed they were almost to the boutique. The two walked in silence the rest of the way. When they were but a few feet from the door, Rarity trotted forward, and stood next to the door with a hoof on the door knob. She put on a smile and looked back at the griffon. "Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything is chic, unique, and magnifique!" She proclaimed as she opened the door for the griffon. The griffon hesitated for a second. He opened his beak as if to talk, but stopped himself. He chuckled, and with a bow entered the boutique.
