Unfortunately, no-one has a spare javelin, as the wall holds only archers (given the short range of the javelin, they're of little use here).
You make your way along the keep's walls, and reach the spot above the main gates that looks over quite a wide area; this is where you raced to the keep the first time, guarding Linan and her family. At that time, you were trying to avoid the occasional enemy, but now you can see that there are many kobolds and others watching, crouched in cover or behind walls of nearby houses.
What are they doing? asks the castellan quietly, and the governor shakes his head. I suppose we will know in time, he replies.
That time comes soon, perhaps only ten minutes later. Suddenly you see movement; figures bearing torches stepping out and moving purposefully into the open. The governor gives an order to his archers to ready, but not to fire until he gives the word.
From the darkness, a creature strides into the dim light of the torches carried by those around it. Although it is shaped roughly like a human, it is at least seven feet tall, its skin is covered in blue scales, its fingers bear wicked claws, and its face has the muzzle and reptilian eyes of a dragon. It is, however, not a dragonborn.
The creature stops about eighty yards from the main gate of the keep and scans the walls. A line of kobolds and humanoids fans out behind it. With their spears, they prod around twelve prisoners into the dim light. You can make out that a few are humans, but most are gnomes or halflings.
The blue-scaled one speaks, its powerful voice perhaps enhanced by magic, it's hard to tell. Defenders of Greenest! This has been a successful night, and I am feeling generous. Do you see these pitiful, useless prisoners? We caught them hiding in their little holes, but have no need for them, so I will trade them back to you. Send out your best warrior to fight me, and you can have these vermin in exchange.
Breena follows the group wearily, knocking an arrow with the rest of the archers when ordered to do so by the governor. "Oh no... Oh, this is not good. Governor, please tell me you've got just a fantastic fighter stashed away waiting for just such an opportunity? Because everyone I've seen is exhausted and that person looks fresh and terrifying."
"That's not Jasa's family there, is it?" Soar says to the castellan, not looking away from the scene. Does she have any idea what that creature might be?
Jalt, you recognise that this is a half-dragon, the child of one dragon and one humanoid parent.
You hear one of the nearby guards, a gnome, talking frantically with his friend. That's my wife. That monster has my wife. His voice is low, filled with anger and fear. Those bastards dragged her from the cellar. Gods preserve us, there's children there. He starts shaking, and another guard puts his arm around him to comfort him. The governor looks grimly at his guards, and then back out towards the challenger. You can now see that there are indeed two or three gnome and halfling children among the prisoners.
The challengers speaks again into the night; I am Cyanwrath. Send your fighter to face me, or we will slaughter these... rats. He says the word with disdain, and waves a hand vaguely in the direction of the prisoners. I will not wait long.
Jasa Redbrooke's family? the castellan replies to Soar. Might be. Can't really see from here. But there's kids down there, and no mistake. I'll...
You'll do nothing, the governor interrupts sharply. You'll do nothing, and so will I, the Gods forgive us. We're too old to go fighting this kind of battle. Castellan Escobert the Red mutters something under his breath, but says nothing in response to the governor.
Jalt's eyes widen significantly and the exhaustion, the pain seem to be overtaken by a sudden overwhelming jolt of adrenaline. They will not die. He stands completely upright, tho he's no seven footer at 6'7 Jalt is still an imposing figure. He locks eyes with Cyanwrath. Let them go, and I will fight you, for the glory of the great Bahamut. He puts away his mace and from his back, underneath his scapular he produces a war pick and raises it high into the air[now in draconic] I will slay you in the name of all who bring dishonor to the lineage of Bahamut.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Jalt! You are strong and brave but you are barely standing on your feet, and you almost didn't come back from that last trip. I'll do it. I've survived worse. The bigger they are, the slower they are, right? I'll take whatever blessing you have, though. Kelemvor's busy enough tonight."
Jalt looks back at Soar and shakes his head. I can not allow anyone to take up this cause. This is my birthright, this is what growing up as a priest of Bahamut and the Platinum Cadre has prepared me for. My father the great knight Jalt Eshuna, has prepared me for. No, this is the fight I must fight.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
Soar looks at Jalt's wounds, some still grievous and some barely healed over.
Her face takes on a cast of warm empathy and compassion. "I don't doubt your courage for a second, and I understand your god has prepared you for such glory. I just care for you, Jalt, and want to take the burden from your shoulders for a bit. Let me try. If you will not yield to me, let us ask the master of the house. Governor, what say you? If you could choose us both, that would be a lot easier. But if we have one shot, who do you choose for your champion? Shall we let the gods decide?"Soar pulls out a coin and spins it in her fingers.
"Flip you for it?"she says, looking at Jalt with a big smile.
She spares the half-dragon down on the ground a quick glance and a jaunty wave. "Won't be a minute! You're a popular fellow and we're all eager to be your dance partner. Be down in two shakes! And if you touch those hostages, you'll be a pincushion!" She smiles big enough to be seen for a league.
Jalt ignores Soar's words for a coin toss and starts to walk away. The glory of Bahamut is not a burden. It is a blessing. I'm not here to be someone's champion. Denying me this moment of piety and reverance, is unacceptable. He points to the holy symbol of Bahamut on his shield. This is more than a symbol. This is an embodiment of the true nature of dragons. WE ARE NOT EVIL.
He pauses and looks back. First to Breena, to Elspeth, to the governor and then to Soar. We do not kill innocent women and children. Will you deny me this moment? Deny me my calling?
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
Breena is going to unwind some of the flowers she shoved into her braid while they were traveling, most are crushed and matted after the day of fighting but some were heartier stock. She tucks them into the plates of Jalt's armor that she can reach (none higher than his waist, probably, because he's twice her height) and nods. "Be careful. I'm gonna be up here watching and you just give me a sign if you want me to shoot him, that's not cheating...it's just common sense. You gotta have a backup plan, right? So I'll be ready to shoot him or any of the others down there that look like they might hurt those people. Or...I can come with you? I'm little, he might not see me."
Jalt bends to one knee, clearly grimacing as he does but trying to stifle it. He places his free hand on Breena's shoulder. Little one, if they cheat, you let loose with as many arrows as you can, and the light of Bahamut will shine down on you. You've always been so brave. Bahamut has blessed us me indeed having you on my path.
(Soar will still wait for the governor to speak/intervene.)
"Jalt!" she says, after he and Breena talk, leaning over and trying to speak quietly. She switches to draconic. "Friend, I see you are hurt. He could strike you down with one blow and then what have we to show for it? Gods know we are all exhausted, but you've taken the brunt of most of our battles today. You're barely standing. I can go in your place, without injuries, and with Kelemvor and Bahamut both guiding me! I know you are not foolish. Help me do this. Help me do my best to save those children."
She stands up, waiting for a change in approach, and if Jalt remains set on his course, and ignores Soar, and ignores anything the governor might say, she will, in Common, announce a bit louder as she precedes Jalt to the main gate, walking backwards still locking eyes with him: "Cyanwrath did not say that the deal hinged on the greatest warrior coming out to face him alone. I will come with you and be your second in this fight, should you stand or fall. I'll make sure he honors the deal, and that the hostages get to safety before the fight, and back you up, win or lose." To Elspeth or Badger she mutters quietly, "you got a goodberry or two I can borrow?"
Jalt walks over to Castellan, leans towards him and whispers in his ear. How fast can we get a healer here? In full voice.The quickest way down there. Let us end tonight's bloodshed once and for all. Moving slowly, not in a rush... which allows Soar to plead her case and also to hopefully get someone to heal him back up to go out there.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The governor whispers something to Escobert, who dashes off. As you discuss together, the guard whose wife is among the prisoners becomes more agitated. I... I will go. I will face this monster, and...; he sounds afraid but resolute, but the governor interrupts him. No, lad, you won't. The governor rests his hand on the gnome's shoulder. You'll do your duty and keep at your post. His voice is kind, reassuring, but also firm, and the young guardsman lowers his head to hide his tears from his commander.
After a minute, Escobert returns, with the druid Lasani joining her. My lady, please, Nighthill asks, formally and, you notice, a little stiffly, would you do what you can to tend the wounds of this brave soul, and he indicates Jalt, as he is about to face a terrible enemy.
Lasani bows slightly, and puts her hands on Jalt's cheeks; there is a slight glow; Jalt, you are healed for 6 HP.
The voice of Cyanwrath comes to you once again. I will wait one minute more. Choose which of you will die by my hand, or watch these rats bleed. I tire of this town.
Governor Nighthill looks at you, Jalt. I would not have asked this sacrifice of you, but I confess I hoped for it. You have shown bravery beyond measure tonight, all four of you. But I fear this beast means to kill you. Are you certain you will do this? If so, it must be done swiftly.
Elspeth turns her head to look from Jalt to Soar, obviously unhappy.
"We have to at least try to get them back, but I hate this plan so much. Soar, Jalt, I'm not going to try to convince you to not fight him, because there seems to be other way of rescuing the prisoners, but be careful, pease. Don't let yourself die."
She extracts the pouch containing the few goodberries she has left and hands them to Soar.
"I'll be here waiting. If you need my help, just call."
Jalt turns to the governor. If I die tonight, it will be by the will of Bahamut. But those lives out there will not be lost. I will not battle Cyanwarth until I am sure that they are secure. Again he looks at Breena. Be weary, little one. He turns to Soar and Elspeth. I meant no disrespect, but this is the path I have been on. Again he looks to the guards. Lead me to Cyanwarth.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
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Unfortunately, no-one has a spare javelin, as the wall holds only archers (given the short range of the javelin, they're of little use here).
You make your way along the keep's walls, and reach the spot above the main gates that looks over quite a wide area; this is where you raced to the keep the first time, guarding Linan and her family. At that time, you were trying to avoid the occasional enemy, but now you can see that there are many kobolds and others watching, crouched in cover or behind walls of nearby houses.
What are they doing? asks the castellan quietly, and the governor shakes his head. I suppose we will know in time, he replies.
That time comes soon, perhaps only ten minutes later. Suddenly you see movement; figures bearing torches stepping out and moving purposefully into the open. The governor gives an order to his archers to ready, but not to fire until he gives the word.
From the darkness, a creature strides into the dim light of the torches carried by those around it. Although it is shaped roughly like a human, it is at least seven feet tall, its skin is covered in blue scales, its fingers bear wicked claws, and its face has the muzzle and reptilian eyes of a dragon. It is, however, not a dragonborn.
The creature stops about eighty yards from the main gate of the keep and scans the walls. A line of kobolds and humanoids fans out behind it. With their spears, they prod around twelve prisoners into the dim light. You can make out that a few are humans, but most are gnomes or halflings.
The blue-scaled one speaks, its powerful voice perhaps enhanced by magic, it's hard to tell. Defenders of Greenest! This has been a successful night, and I am feeling generous. Do you see these pitiful, useless prisoners? We caught them hiding in their little holes, but have no need for them, so I will trade them back to you. Send out your best warrior to fight me, and you can have these vermin in exchange.
Breena follows the group wearily, knocking an arrow with the rest of the archers when ordered to do so by the governor. "Oh no... Oh, this is not good. Governor, please tell me you've got just a fantastic fighter stashed away waiting for just such an opportunity? Because everyone I've seen is exhausted and that person looks fresh and terrifying."
Rees Changeling Rogue in Tales From the Yawning Portal: Sunless Citadel
Nikya Centaur Blood Hunter in Death House Halloween Oneshot
"That's not Jasa's family there, is it?" Soar says to the castellan, not looking away from the scene. Does she have any idea what that creature might be?
Any of you can make a Nature check to try to identify the creature; Jalt can do so with advantage.
Nature: 21
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
Jalt, you recognise that this is a half-dragon, the child of one dragon and one humanoid parent.
You hear one of the nearby guards, a gnome, talking frantically with his friend. That's my wife. That monster has my wife. His voice is low, filled with anger and fear. Those bastards dragged her from the cellar. Gods preserve us, there's children there. He starts shaking, and another guard puts his arm around him to comfort him. The governor looks grimly at his guards, and then back out towards the challenger. You can now see that there are indeed two or three gnome and halfling children among the prisoners.
The challengers speaks again into the night; I am Cyanwrath. Send your fighter to face me, or we will slaughter these... rats. He says the word with disdain, and waves a hand vaguely in the direction of the prisoners. I will not wait long.
Jasa Redbrooke's family? the castellan replies to Soar. Might be. Can't really see from here. But there's kids down there, and no mistake. I'll...
You'll do nothing, the governor interrupts sharply. You'll do nothing, and so will I, the Gods forgive us. We're too old to go fighting this kind of battle. Castellan Escobert the Red mutters something under his breath, but says nothing in response to the governor.
Jalt's eyes widen significantly and the exhaustion, the pain seem to be overtaken by a sudden overwhelming jolt of adrenaline. They will not die. He stands completely upright, tho he's no seven footer at 6'7 Jalt is still an imposing figure. He locks eyes with Cyanwrath. Let them go, and I will fight you, for the glory of the great Bahamut. He puts away his mace and from his back, underneath his scapular he produces a war pick and raises it high into the air [now in draconic] I will slay you in the name of all who bring dishonor to the lineage of Bahamut.
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
"Jalt! You are strong and brave but you are barely standing on your feet, and you almost didn't come back from that last trip. I'll do it. I've survived worse. The bigger they are, the slower they are, right? I'll take whatever blessing you have, though. Kelemvor's busy enough tonight."
Jalt looks back at Soar and shakes his head. I can not allow anyone to take up this cause. This is my birthright, this is what growing up as a priest of Bahamut and the Platinum Cadre has prepared me for. My father the great knight Jalt Eshuna, has prepared me for. No, this is the fight I must fight.
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
Soar looks at Jalt's wounds, some still grievous and some barely healed over.
Her face takes on a cast of warm empathy and compassion. "I don't doubt your courage for a second, and I understand your god has prepared you for such glory. I just care for you, Jalt, and want to take the burden from your shoulders for a bit. Let me try. If you will not yield to me, let us ask the master of the house. Governor, what say you? If you could choose us both, that would be a lot easier. But if we have one shot, who do you choose for your champion? Shall we let the gods decide?" Soar pulls out a coin and spins it in her fingers.
"Flip you for it?" she says, looking at Jalt with a big smile.
She spares the half-dragon down on the ground a quick glance and a jaunty wave. "Won't be a minute! You're a popular fellow and we're all eager to be your dance partner. Be down in two shakes! And if you touch those hostages, you'll be a pincushion!" She smiles big enough to be seen for a league.
Jalt ignores Soar's words for a coin toss and starts to walk away. The glory of Bahamut is not a burden. It is a blessing. I'm not here to be someone's champion. Denying me this moment of piety and reverance, is unacceptable. He points to the holy symbol of Bahamut on his shield. This is more than a symbol. This is an embodiment of the true nature of dragons. WE ARE NOT EVIL.
He pauses and looks back. First to Breena, to Elspeth, to the governor and then to Soar. We do not kill innocent women and children. Will you deny me this moment? Deny me my calling?
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
Breena is going to unwind some of the flowers she shoved into her braid while they were traveling, most are crushed and matted after the day of fighting but some were heartier stock. She tucks them into the plates of Jalt's armor that she can reach (none higher than his waist, probably, because he's twice her height) and nods. "Be careful. I'm gonna be up here watching and you just give me a sign if you want me to shoot him, that's not cheating...it's just common sense. You gotta have a backup plan, right? So I'll be ready to shoot him or any of the others down there that look like they might hurt those people. Or...I can come with you? I'm little, he might not see me."
Rees Changeling Rogue in Tales From the Yawning Portal: Sunless Citadel
Nikya Centaur Blood Hunter in Death House Halloween Oneshot
Jalt bends to one knee, clearly grimacing as he does but trying to stifle it. He places his free hand on Breena's shoulder. Little one, if they cheat, you let loose with as many arrows as you can, and the light of Bahamut will shine down on you. You've always been so brave. Bahamut has blessed us me indeed having you on my path.
Jalt casts Guidance on Breena
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
(Soar will still wait for the governor to speak/intervene.)
"Jalt!" she says, after he and Breena talk, leaning over and trying to speak quietly. She switches to draconic. "Friend, I see you are hurt. He could strike you down with one blow and then what have we to show for it? Gods know we are all exhausted, but you've taken the brunt of most of our battles today. You're barely standing. I can go in your place, without injuries, and with Kelemvor and Bahamut both guiding me! I know you are not foolish. Help me do this. Help me do my best to save those children."
She stands up, waiting for a change in approach, and if Jalt remains set on his course, and ignores Soar, and ignores anything the governor might say, she will, in Common, announce a bit louder as she precedes Jalt to the main gate, walking backwards still locking eyes with him: "Cyanwrath did not say that the deal hinged on the greatest warrior coming out to face him alone. I will come with you and be your second in this fight, should you stand or fall. I'll make sure he honors the deal, and that the hostages get to safety before the fight, and back you up, win or lose." To Elspeth or Badger she mutters quietly, "you got a goodberry or two I can borrow?"
Jalt walks over to Castellan, leans towards him and whispers in his ear. How fast can we get a healer here? In full voice. The quickest way down there. Let us end tonight's bloodshed once and for all. Moving slowly, not in a rush... which allows Soar to plead her case and also to hopefully get someone to heal him back up to go out there.
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."
The governor whispers something to Escobert, who dashes off. As you discuss together, the guard whose wife is among the prisoners becomes more agitated. I... I will go. I will face this monster, and...; he sounds afraid but resolute, but the governor interrupts him. No, lad, you won't. The governor rests his hand on the gnome's shoulder. You'll do your duty and keep at your post. His voice is kind, reassuring, but also firm, and the young guardsman lowers his head to hide his tears from his commander.
After a minute, Escobert returns, with the druid Lasani joining her. My lady, please, Nighthill asks, formally and, you notice, a little stiffly, would you do what you can to tend the wounds of this brave soul, and he indicates Jalt, as he is about to face a terrible enemy.
Lasani bows slightly, and puts her hands on Jalt's cheeks; there is a slight glow; Jalt, you are healed for 6 HP.
The voice of Cyanwrath comes to you once again. I will wait one minute more. Choose which of you will die by my hand, or watch these rats bleed. I tire of this town.
Governor Nighthill looks at you, Jalt. I would not have asked this sacrifice of you, but I confess I hoped for it. You have shown bravery beyond measure tonight, all four of you. But I fear this beast means to kill you. Are you certain you will do this? If so, it must be done swiftly.
Elspeth turns her head to look from Jalt to Soar, obviously unhappy.
"We have to at least try to get them back, but I hate this plan so much. Soar, Jalt, I'm not going to try to convince you to not fight him, because there seems to be other way of rescuing the prisoners, but be careful, pease. Don't let yourself die."
She extracts the pouch containing the few goodberries she has left and hands them to Soar.
"I'll be here waiting. If you need my help, just call."
Jalt turns to the governor. If I die tonight, it will be by the will of Bahamut. But those lives out there will not be lost. I will not battle Cyanwarth until I am sure that they are secure. Again he looks at Breena. Be weary, little one. He turns to Soar and Elspeth. I meant no disrespect, but this is the path I have been on. Again he looks to the guards. Lead me to Cyanwarth.
Hoard of the Dragon Queen - Jalt Rhogar - Dragonborn Cleric (9)
"Ive heard it both ways."