The Griffon Cavalry is the elite aerial defense force of Waterdeep. Often seen soaring above the spires of Mount Waterdeep or patrolling the harbor, they are the city’s most prestigious military branch and a symbol of its enduring power.
Overview
The Cavalry is a specialized sub-division of the City Guard. While the Guard handles the walls and the City Watch handles the streets, the Griffon Cavalry owns the sky. Membership is a mark of extreme honor, reserved for the most disciplined and courageous soldiers in the North.
- Base of Operations: Peaktop Tower (nestled atop Mount Waterdeep).
- Commanding Officer: Lord Commander of the Guard (currently Jillie Thuy).
- Primary Duty: Aerial reconnaissance, defense against flying threats (dragons, manticores), and rapid response to emergencies.
The Griffons
The cavalry mounts are not mere beasts; they are highly trained, loyal companions.
- Stabling: Most griffons are kept at the Griffon Stables near the Peaktop Tower, though they are often seen at the Aererie atop the Palace of Waterdeep.
- The Bond: Riders spend years training with a single griffon. It is said that a rider and their mount move as a single soul in the heat of battle.
- The Code: To harm a griffon is considered a high crime against the City of Waterdeep, punishable by heavy fines or imprisonment.
Ranks & Uniform
The Cavalry is known for its striking appearance and practical gear:
| Rank | Description |
|---|---|
| Aspirant | A recruit in training; not yet permitted to fly solo. |
| Wing-Rider | The standard rank-and-file soldier of the skies. |
| Flight Leader | Commands a “Flight” (squadron) of 4–6 riders. |
| High Wing | Senior officers who coordinate with the Open Lord. |
Standard Gear:
- Studded leather or light breastplate (to maintain flight weight).
- The Ring of Feather Falling (standard issue to prevent “unscheduled descents”).
- A specialized lance and a longsword for close-quarters aerial combat.
Joining the Ranks
Players interested in joining the Griffon Cavalry must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of Waterdeep or a member of the Lords’ Alliance.
- Service: Must have served at least two years in the City Guard or have a direct recommendation from a Masked Lord.
- The Trial: A grueling test of bravery involving a free-fall jump and a successful “mid-air mount” of a diving griffon.
DM Note: In times of peace, the Cavalry acts as a “Coast Guard” for the sky, helping ships navigate the harbor and watching for smugglers. In times of war, they are the first line of defense against any threat that would strike the city from above.