Artwork by the highly talented  Bleakcat

Once born into a tribe of noble warriors Gardan's whole life was changed when his village was raided, he among the survivors taken for slavery. He was bought by a sorcerer who, seeing a "spark" in the young hippogriff's eyes, taught him his magic ways; while also using him for carnal desires at the mage's whim. In time Gardan became powerful not only in body, from years of manual labor, but in the arcane arts. So much that he overthrew his master, killed him, and sought out his own means of power and mastery over others.

Gardan's skills lie in his ability to manipulate the mind. From illusions to mind control/reading or swaying the thoughts of others he is considered a mind-master; his powers in other magical acts strong but not as apparent. He seeks to no longer be servant but master, both of his future but of his own piece of land and potentially a kingdom. Until they he wanders, meeting many along the way who prove as either ally or pawn.

Maybe even you x3