"Beware the Jabberwock, my son!
The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!

Not all creatures of myth and legend were shy or noble. Certain creatures existed that had a considerable dislike for mankind and had no qualms about showing it. One such creature was the griffin.

Fierce in appearance, with the body and rear legs of a lion and the head, wings and talons of an eagle, griffins were very territorial and extremely tempermental. Like dragons, it was believed they hoarded large treasures which they fiercely protected. Many an adventurer sought to claim some of the griffin's riches -- few came back to tell the tale.

Historically griffins also played the role of protectors and advisors. It is said they were particularly fond of riddles -- if a traveler sought safe passage through a griffin's territory they could possibly be required to answer a riddle posed by the griffin. If they answered correctly, they proceeded unharmed. If they answered incorrectly . . . well, no one really knows since they never seemed to make it back. These creatures were also sought out for their legendary wisdom. If given the right persuasion, or if one happened to catch him in a good mood, a griffin could give useful advice on almost any topic a traveler may seek. However, it was always a good idea not to be too greedy when asking a griffin for his input -- one never knew when it might decide to turn some unfortunate soul into it's next main course.

This and other elusive creatures have long since vanished into the darkness . . . it is believed the only place they exist now are the darkest parts of man's imagination. But if you ever find yourself deep in a forest late at night, stop for a minute and look around you -- it's possible you might catch a glimpse of some beast from long ago. If you're lucky, you may even live to tell the tale.