Skandranon
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Skandranon is the 'Black Gryphon' of the Mage Wars series by Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon. The Gryphons were created by one of the two great powers in the Mage Wars, Urtho, the Mage of Silence. They are an amalgam of raptor foreparts and feline hindparts, and absorb and channel magic as part of their nature. They are all highly intelligent.
There were several major types, but the vast majority are "broadwing" types, designed as air warriors and elite guard. They are based off heavy raptors (eagles or buteos). Another kind, the "Gryfalcons" were just getting off the drawing board when the Mage Wars began; they are falcon-based, with much more dexterous forefeet -- nearly as dexterous as human hands -- and blinding speed. Skandranon is a Broadwing type, nicknamed the "Black Gryphon" due to natural coloration and dyes he applies himself. In addition to being the "prime specimen of his species" he is a superb aerial warrior and Master-class mage. His mate, Zhaneel, is the first true-bred "Gryfalcon" type. (She is not the first).