Reminded me a bit of Raven/The Demon, though that was certainly intentional.

What did the first bit have to do with anything, unless I'm missing something obvious?

Couldn't Gryphon have just Lensed them? Did they all just not recognize him from the news, and their galactic history classes? Certainly he of all people is much more than a mere civilian, and capable of handling himself?

Marcy seems remarkably well-informed. Her knowledge of Raven, particularly, indicates she has excellent contacts in the Pit.

A thoroughly enjoyable tale.