The Crystal Gryphon — Andre Norton

IN A TIME AND PLACE OF SWORDS AND SORCERY...

...Here begins the saga of Kerovan of Ulmsdale, born with the amber eyes and cloven hooves of the Old Ones, who seeks his rightful heritage as Lord-heir of Ulmsdale -- and Lady Joisan of lthkrypt, proxy-wed to Kerovan, who wears about her neck Kerovan's precious and powerful gift...a small crystal globe encasing a tiny gryphon.

Kerovan and Joisan -- each forever entwined in the other's fate--their destiny clouded by dark evils which threaten to destroy their kingdoms. Together, they seek to unlock the wondrous powers they hold within them... and the mysterious secrets of the crystal gryphon.