“My prince!” Ivorybeak exclaimed as the pair walked back to the centre of town at the agreed time. He walked over and bowed his head. “It is so good to finally find you! Your father… Forgive me, His Majesty has been sick with worry.” Joachim’s eyes were downcast. Handy looked down at both of them. Ivory turned to the human henchman. “My thanks, Sir Handy, for you have been most helpful. I release you of your service. Hirsild?” The griffon approached Handy and offered him a bag of gold. Handy took it, concerned.