"I think it would be best to prepare yourself to use defensive magic at any time, my lady."
Maxi had been basking in the sense of freedom when Gabel, riding ahead of her, abruptly cried out. She gave him a puzzled look.
There were no wild animals in sight, let alone monsters. Wondering if they were being watched, Maxi looked about in terror. Gabel pointed upward.
Her gaze reflexively followed his finger toward the sky, and she almost let out a scream. Five or six gigantic birds of bizarre proportion circled above them.
"They are harpies, my lady. I do not think they intend to attack us at the moment, but it is best not to let your guard down."
If she recalled correctly, harpies were monsters that had the body of an eagle and the face of a human woman. Squinting upward, Maxi studied the creatures.