Skyclaw Griffons

The Skyclaw Griffons are majestic predators, their forms etched against the peaks of the Iron-Grip Mountains like living gargoyles. They are a creature of myth and legend, whispered about in hushed tones by miners and explorers venturing too far from The Dwarven Abbey. Unlike the common griffons found in lower elevations, the Skyclaw possesses plumage the color of polished obsidian, blending seamlessly with the shadows of the mountain peaks. Their talons, from which they derive their name, are forged of a unique crystalline material harder than any dwarven steel, capable of shearing through solid rock with ease. They prey primarily on mountain goats and the occasional unwary Shadow-Goblins, but rumors persist of Skyclaws snatching dwarves whole, carrying them off to their aeries high in the treacherous peaks.

Their nesting grounds are shrouded in perpetual storms, accessible only by navigating the perilous Skystrider Paths, making any attempts at domestication futile. The Order of the Azure Hand believes the Skyclaws are sensitive to the flow of Aetherium and theorizes they may even be able to sense disturbances in the celestial energies, perhaps even predicting the Celestial Alignment Ritual. Some dwarves, like Archivist Theron, speculate that the Skyclaws are descendants of ancient, magically altered beasts created during the era before The Schism of Stone and Sky, possibly even by the Truthseekers. Perhaps the Crimson Cartographers have mapped the migration routes of the Skyclaw Griffons. Scars of the Skyclaw Griffons' presence may be found in the Glimmering Caverns. The Cobalt Corsairs occasionally engage in aerial skirmishes with these apex predators, but seldom prevail. Some dwarves have attempted to use Skyclaw feathers to fashion powerful talismans, believing them to possess protective properties. What if the Silent Monks of Durin's Peak possess a secret language that the Skyclaws understand? It may be possible the Forgotten Smith knows more about these dangerous creatures than anyone else.