“Count Henri the Talonstrike of Ifrendare, has been accusing Duke Karl of Necromancy and all sorts of devilry.” The red griffon replied, Joachim’s eyebrows rose at that. “The accusations are spurious, of course, but as you know your highness, all some griffons need is just the pretence it offers them…” The griffon let the silence hang, causing Joachim to clear his throat. 