A fledgling raised by an Elf develops a strong bond with its master and eventually the Elf will be able to ride the fully grown hawk. The hawk will be trained to fight with its beak and talons. Since the Elves themselves live high up among the treetops in platforms of woven branches, it is a very useful skill to be able to fly above the trees. The Warhawk riders can spot any intruders and swoop down to attack them.[1a]