Female variant of the sphinx with formidable claws but prefers to avoid conflict

The gynosphinx is the female variant of the sphinx, like the androsphinx is the male. In melee encounters, a gynosphinx unleashes its formidable claws to tear into its foes. However, it tends to shy away from conflict whenever it can, despite its lethal capabilities. It is avaricious, but prefers gems and jewelry over coins when given a choice.

This creature has the body of a lion, the wings of a falcon, and the head and torso of a beautiful human woman.

A gynosphinx bears the head of a humanoid female. Many have the regal countenances of worldly queens, but some are marked with wild, leonine features. A gynosphinx's eyes see beyond the present time and place, and penetrate veils of invisibility and magic.

Supplicants who look deep into those eyes might find themselves magically displaced, banished to some far flung plane where a difficult trial awaits them.

Gynosphinxes are virtual libraries of knowledge and lore. They ask riddles and present puzzles to test the wit of supplicants that come to learn their secrets. Some are willing to bargain with such supplicants for treasure or service.