The gryphon walked alongside the wagon at full pace, wincing with each step but not requesting a slower pace. He spent the time silent, staring ahead down the road, but without an aerial vantage point his eyesight could only do so much; still, whenever the caravan crested a hill he would briefly stop and survey the terrain ahead.<br/><br/>On seeing their destination, Swiftbeak sighed with both relief, and some amount of sadness at the devastation of the surrounding landscape; not that he had any particular love for trees, but the hunting in these parts would certainly be poor. Still, beggars can't be choosers...<br/><br/>The mention of his name drew his attention, and he looked with some confusion at the Hellguard which reluctantly addressed him as 'sir'; waiting a moment to ensure he had heard properly before bowing his head lightly. His expressionless face hid his swell of pride.<br/><br/>"Thank you. I was pleased I was able to lend my aid; it is the first time this body has been of benefit to anyone but myself."<br/><br/>As the group began to split around him, the gryphon turned to head back to the wagon; he had wanted to ensure Zato would not need assistance in navigating the fortress. He opened his beak to speak, and-<br/><br/>Quack.<br/><br/>His eyes snapped to the now-revealed Mary, briefly blazing with fury; thankfully, her face was hidden in the monk's robes and spared her the sight of his anger. He calmed himself before speaking, and wary that the girl was already upset, he addressed Zato rather than her directly.<br/><br/>"This fortress, and this mission, is no place for a civilian, let alone a child. We must tell Sir Morr of this immediately." Aware of the girl's state and proximity, he tried to keep his voice level but firm.