Chapter 260: Riding out in style...

"No, Champion. The one you fought was a simple guardian, a fraction of Solis's power. This," she said, gesturing to the majestic creature before them, "is the true Griffin of Pride."

The griffin turned its gaze to Adrian, and for a moment, he could have sworn it scoffed. The creature made a series of harsh, almost dismissive noises, and its body language showed a hint of arrogance.

Adrian crossed his arms. "Wait, is it… communicating with you? What did it just say?"

Hera tilted her head, a mischievous glint in her eye. "She said that defeating her guardian doesn't mean you could ever best her in battle."

Adrian rolled his eyes. "Of course she did."

The griffin—Solis—let out another rumbling sound, this one closer to a chuckle. Hera patted her neck affectionately. "Don't take it personally. Solis simply has standards, as all beings of pride should."