Dungeons and dragons Mounts and pets chapter 9

 

In Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), mounts and pets can add depth and flavor to your character's role-playing experience. Depending on the campaign and the Dungeon Master's (DM) rulings, you may have various options for obtaining and using mounts and pets. Here are some common choices and considerations:

1. Mounts:

   • Horses: Horses are a traditional choice for mounts. They come in various types, such as warhorses for combat or riding horses for travel. The Player's Handbook provides rules for purchasing and maintaining horses.
   • Exotic Mounts: Depending on the campaign setting, you might have access to exotic mounts like griffins, giant eagles, or magical creatures like unicorns. Acquiring these often involves quests or special circumstances.
   • Summoned Mounts: Certain classes, like Paladins and some Druids, can summon magical mounts temporarily to aid them in battle or travel.

2. Pets:

   • Familiars: Some spellcasters, like Wizards and Warlocks, can summon familiars. These creatures offer various benefits, such as scouting, delivering touch spells, or providing assistance in combat.
   • Animal Companions: Druids and Rangers can have animal companions that grow in power alongside them. These companions can be used for combat, tracking, and other tasks.
   • Animal Handling: Characters with proficiency in Animal Handling may be able to tame and train creatures they encounter in the wild to serve as pets or companions. The effectiveness of this depends on your DM's rulings and the creature's disposition.

3. Magic Items:

   • Items like Mounts: Some magical items can summon mounts, like figurines of wondrous power or magical steeds. These items are typically temporary and can be useful in specific situations.
   • Wondrous Pets: There are magical items that can provide you with pets, such as the Apparatus of the Crab, which is a mechanical crab that can serve as both a pet and a means of transportation.

4. Role-Playing Opportunities:

   • Character Background: Consider your character's background and backstory when choosing a mount or pet. How did you acquire it? Does it have any special significance to your character?
   • Personality: Give your mount or pet a personality. Role-play interactions with it and develop a bond, which can lead to memorable moments in the campaign.

Remember, the availability of mounts and pets can vary depending on the campaign setting and the DM's preferences. Always check with your DM to see what options are available and what makes sense for the story. Additionally, be sure to consider the responsibilities and maintenance of your mount or pet, as they require care and attention in the game world.