As the group begins to follow Ravna, Daestra can see a Raven looking back at them with a loud caw as well. Passing by the town a large statue comes into view. An old, chipped stone statue stands at the center of this town square, depicting a man wearing leather armor and holding a sword.
The statue bears a weather worn plaque at its base. It reads: Mordred Antovich the Great. Burgomaster of Barovia. Bane of Vampires. 618-662 BC
Things to note are... BC as a calendar date means nothing to Daestra but Ravna and Lucian knows what that means. Lucian and Ravna also know the current year is 735BC so this is a rather old statue.
Passing by the statue.. They come to an old inn the raven flies and flitters above the tavern's sign with a caw gesturing in.
A single shaft of light thrusts illumination into the main square, its brightness looking like a solid pillar in the heavy fog. Above the gaping doorway, a sign hangs precariously askew, proclaiming this to be the Blood on the Vine tavern. The V has been scratched out for an F it seems. And on has been turned to OF.
OOC I use that generator because of Rynn now and I LOVE you're art for both!
Also I now separating is a cardinal sin in DND but in Play by Post you can separate whenever you want rather easily while exploring if desired! It is dangerous of course but possible!
Lucian stares at Daestra for a moment, finding himself confused at how the strange elf could find anything about the area breathtaking... but then again, if by breathtaking he meant frightening, Lucian might understand after all. Giving a nervous breath, he says, "Uh... I'm Lucian. Nice....Uh...nice to meet you." He doesn't extend a hand, more out of nervous forgetfulness (and perhaps lack of social skills) rather than rudeness.
When they approach the inn, Lucian squints up at the name as if not really understanding why letters are scratched out. As they make their way closer, he spends most of his time glancing between Ravna, Daestra, and every little movement as if anticipating something to jump out at him. Clearly he's not used to this environment.
OOC: Lol, yeah. I'm not a huge fan of AI art because... well it obviously steals from real artists. But it is convenient when you don't have the time or skills to draw your own character. I'm much happier with this AI image than I was of the original image I had for Lucian though. It took me FOREVER to find anything that remotely resembled him just browsing the web. So I'm glad that Rynn showed me the generator... I just have to ignore the fact that the image makes it look like Lucian has two thumbs on one hand :'D.
Ravna smiles wordlessly and gestures for the elf to follow. She knows there is much this man should learn of this land, but she believes her contact would be more equipped to explain everything.
Passing the statue, her gaze lingers on it for a brief moment. Thoughts of glory and destiny flit through her head before she looks away and continues to follow the raven.
Her mouth tightens upon seeing the inn's sign, but she barely hesitates before walking in with her confident stride. Once inside, she pauses in the doorway and scans the room looking for either familiar faces or suspicious ones.
Perception: 21 (nat 20)
(OOC: Sorry I missed posting yesterday! The power in my area went out, so both Aroc and I have no power. Last night had some crazy weather lol. I think we should be good with posting now though.
Lol yeah, I agree with that Shield Hero. I like the AI art as a tool, but it really really irks me when i see people trying to sell it.)
As Ravna enters prepared to look at every face, she see's one man with dark hair and green eyes talking to what seems to be an armored individual. The armored individual was blonde and looked rather worn, though his armor was dirty and scratched up it looked heavy and durable more so than anything Lucian or Ravna would have seen. For Daestra he's only seen a few armors superior to this but they were far shinier.
There was also a plump man next to an extremely muscular young man drinking. A glassy eye bartender and 3 colorfully dressed women.. Likely Vistani by the way of dress. Though Vistani had meant nothing to Daestra. Nothing was familiar in here to Ravna except.. The blonde looked not to unfamiliar to the statue outside albeit younger looking. He wore a worn down symbol of the Morninglord but it was a lot less intricate than Andrews own symbol and even more worn than her own.
As they all make way in, the blonde armored man looked them over revealing he had a longsword on his side and a shield on his back. He seemed a bit curious of them, enough that he had stood up and offered a smile. Faint and cleary tired.. but by the valley's standards? There was still a light a spark of something in those eyes.
"Hail, we don't get many new faces around here. My name is Mordred and... a Dusk elf? Wait.. you're friend he's an elf too but his skin is all.. Wrong? Ahh that sounds rude I apologize greatly."
Though he has a rather sour face he seems almost... Excited to see newcomers enter the village.
OOC Oh yeah they shouldn't try to make money off of it for sure!
The young man next to the armored blonde slowly looked up at him as he stood up. Was he just going to talk to these strangers?
Yes... Yes he was.
His green eyes lingered on the blonde for a moment before he turned his head to get a look at the people he had decided to speak to. He had a book open in front of him, but he closed it now. It would seem that this had his attention. Unlike the blonde he didn't offer his name or greet them. There was curiosity in his eyes. Who were these people? What had brought them here?
"Mordred you should really be more careful with what you say."
He slowly stood up next to him and offered a small bow his hand on his chest.
"My name is Salem."
He offers a small smile, but it doesn't seem like talking with strangers is something he does or likes to do often.
Lucian stays in Ravna's shadow, clearly trying not to draw too much attention to himself while also not actually hiding. He shivers a little when the armored stranger approaches them, forcing himself to remember that not every human is an enemy... heck, he's following one right now. Good grief, he needs to get over himself. Shaking his head, he takes in a deep breath, closing his eyes for a brief moment and hoping that no one notices. Once he's managed to (mostly) calm his nerves he looks back up at the stranger....er....Mordred... only to give a start when Mordred makes a comment on his being a Dusk elf. He blinks, then gives a wry smile when he realizes that Mordred had said the same thing about Daestra as he'd been thinking earlier. Chuckling a little, he rubs the back of his head and says, "It...it's okay... well... I think its okay..." He glances at Daestra, "W...we just met him, I think he's an outsider?"He says it questioningly, even though he's more than sure the pale elf is not from these cursed lands.
"Uh...Oh... I'm Lucian,"he gives an awkward wave when the dark haired fellow comes over, still maintaining a nervous smile. "This is my first time in... uh... this area." He glances at Ravna, not really sure what to tell these people, or if they really should tell them anything yet.
Daestra is distracted by the various people here at the Inn, but overheard the blonde question whether he was a dusk elf or not. Daestra intervenes “No, sorry sir but I am a wood elf, not from these parts. My name is Daestra by the way.” Daestra offers his hand and smiles. He looks over at the young man next to him and greets him as well.
Daestra looks over at Ravna “Should I ask him about the Burgomaster? Or is that a bad idea at this time?” Daestra asks nervously not knowing whether he should trust the people in this town. Something definitely seems off to him.
Ravna takes note of each noteworthy individual and gives Mordred a slight bow when he introduces himself. "Ravna Korosis. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am no stranger to this town, but it has been many years since my last visit." In many ways this village is much the same as she remembered in her childhood, but in many others it was very different. Not surprising seeing how it is often ravaged by undead.
When Salem approaches, she gives him a slight bow as well. The tall white haired woman looks over the man thoroughly. She is pretty sure she knows who Mordred is, and if she is right how much hold does this stranger have over him? Who exactly is he? How long has he been here? She does not seem overly suspicious of the man, but she's clearly curious. She leans towards Daestra when he whispers to her and gives a slight smile before turning back to Mordred. "Sir Mordred, would I be correct in assuming you are the current Burgomaster of this village? ...and if you don't mind my asking, have you had any other visitors recently? I am looking for a woman by the name of Muriel."
Mordred shakes Daestra's hand with a light smile. Nodding to Lucian as well, his eyes raise when Salem introduces himself.
"Ahh Salem, you're not normally the social type. However.. a wood elf? It sounds new.. And exciting even you couldn't hold back you're interest huh?"
Mordred turns to Ravna as she mentions she is no stranger to the town. His eyes stare unflinchingly into her own.
"Ahh there is a chance that father must have known about you. Maybe we met ourselves in passing even Ravna, that is a strong but beautiful name."
As Ravna compares the past to the present.. She notices the village looks so different and much of the destruction and decay is.. More recent almost as if a massive attack had taken place not long ago. Lucian and her recall a rumor.. That Castle Ravenloft has been more active the last month. Even Mordred looks somewhat familiar to Ravna which explains why he is trying his best to remember her as well. Salem however? This face holds nothing to her.
Mordred's light smile turns to a smile as grief invades his eyes upon Ravna's question. He looks to the bar keep before sitting at the table.
"Arik get us some drinks if you would."
The barkeep with a light grunt and glazed eyes begins to make a few drinks as Mordred places two gold on the table. He looks to Ravna thinking upon her question.
"Yes.. I mean I am now unfortunately. My father passed away in the last attack from Ravenloft, afterwards however they have simply.. Stopped. Technically the village has to elect me worthy of succeeding my father. Till that election I only serve as acting Burgomeister. I doubt however they'll select me and in truth? I cannot blame them. Hm? Muriel? No I can't say I have you're the only outsiders that have come into town lately I apologize. I can tell my scouts to keep an eye out for her though."
Ravna responds to Mordred's compliment with a small smile and nod, refraining from answering vocally. A hint of recognition lights her eyes, but as more memories return, the more she realizes how much suffering this place has seen in her absents. Perhaps the rumors are true.
She looks a bit concerned when the blond man states no other outsiders have visited recently. Had her eyes betrayed her? No. She recognized that bird. Now she can only hope she had not made a mistake in revealing Muriel's name. "I am sorry to hear of your father's passing."She states sincerely, while trying to beat back memories of her own father. "I am sure you will be able to prove yourself to these people, but if they chose not to follow you, then perhaps your fate holds a different purpose." Her words may sound sinister, but she is genuinely trying to be positive. "I appreciate your willingness to help locate Muriel, but if she does not wish to be found, she won't be. So let your scouts continue their usual work and protect the people of this village."
Setting her lance against the wall, she gratefully accepts the offered drink.
Lucian isn't sure what to say or do at the moment, aside from try his best not to look completely out of place....
He hunches down a little at the mention of drinks, not wanting to decline but also not really interested in testing his constitution for the first time. After a moment, he glances around only to force himself to pay attention to the people in front of him. This is as safe a location as he's been in for the past few days, so he might as well take some time to try and relax.
After a few moments of failed attempts to start talking, he manages to ask Daestra, "So... uh... um.... How long have you been wandering in these lands? I... well... It's really dangerous to be alone and away from a village."He averts his eyes, rubbing a thumb up and down the chain of his pocket watch. "Are... you a skilled fighter? I would assume you are if you've been wandering but... heheh..." he gives a nervous laugh, then rubs the back of his neck. "Well... I guess I'm just asking how long you've been trapped here? Most outsiders don't exactly come here uh... willingly, so..." He trails off, feeling like he might not really want to ask these questions and not really sure why he did in the first place. Hopefully he didn't strike any sensitive cords... he's just never met an outsider before, much less a pale elf.
Daestra looks over at Lucian and replies “How long have I been exploring? Hmm.. well… I think I’ve been taking note of the land for maybe 3 weeks now?” As Daestra stands there puzzled for a moment trying to think whether he is remembering correctly or not.
“I agree though it is quite dangerous out in these lands, you never know what you will come across. But I am not too worried about most things, I’m a rather skilled Archer on leave from my guardsman duties in my village currently.” Daestra appears slightly confused and worried when Lucian mentions being trapped here.
”Wait… were trapped here? I was just exploring the woods and happened upon this place, how could we get trapped here? Is this why I have never seen this place on any of my maps before?” Daestra gets lost in thought staring off at Lucian as he nervously taps his foot on the floor.
Mordred looks to Ravna tilting his head curiously a moment.
"My fate... Holds a different purpose?"
Mordred's eyes turn to worry upon hearing of Muriel not wanting to be found.
"Her too? Is she desired by the lord of the land? Is that why she is hiding? My sister.. I wish I could hide her the same way... That sounds terrible I know.. But the lord of this land has.. Taken an interest in her. Lord... what a sick joke"
His eyes begin to reflect with more than despair and defeat.. But hatred runs in those eyes. A few eyes in the bar turn to Mordred on this statement casting judgmental gazes for his words.
Mordred looks to Lucian than to Daestra with a look of mourning the hatred escaping his eyes now.
I am sorry ser Daestra but.. You are trapped in the valley by the mist. No one may leave without... "His" permission. That permission is only ever granted to the traitorous Vistani."
As the group awaits for drinks Mordred looks to them once more.
"If you have questions about the village or anything else please ask.. I know it can be confusing for outsiders. I'm here to help.. The best I can."
In that moment..something slams against a nearby table—and the sound draws their attention to a man sitting not far away, his clenched fist twitching against his table's wooden surface. He is squat, with greasy receding salt-and-pepper hair and a patched, well-worn coat. A scowl mars his face as he turns his dark eyes toward your group. "
It's a fool's errand to put your faith in Mordred the Lesser,"
he rasps, eyes lingering upon each of them.
"Best to seek better company, lest you wind up in the ground with the last fools that trusted him."
Mordred winces to this man's words as their drinks are brought over to each of them.
"If you want.. The real history of this land.. The village and what exactly happened? Best ask me, his sorry ass won't be able to help believe me on that."
OOC I decided to post though Kirai hasn't but I'll give them a chance to post later! ^^
Lucian shrinks a little when it seems that Daestra had no clue about being trapped prior to him bringing it up. He nods as Mordred confirms to the outsider that once someone is inside the mists there is no leaving. He can't imagine what must be going through Daestra's head at the moment, and can't help but feel bad about being the first to break the news to him.
"None of us have ever left the Valley," he says quietly. Even their souls are trapped here--something he won't say right now for fear of making things worse. Plus, he can't help but hope that's not true. "Sorry... I... uh... don't really know what to say. I guess there isn't really anything to say." He resumes rubbing his thumb up and down the chain around his neck as he slowly sinks back into his (more) nervous state from earlier.
Then the sound of something slamming against a table nearby causes him to let out a surprised yelp and nearly jump out of his own skin. He looks around frantically before locating the scowling stranger. Something about the guy and the way he is talking about Mordred causes Lucian's hackles to raise. Sure, he doesn't know Mordred at all, but he's been nice so far. So having this person talk like that about him? Well it doesn't sit right.
His pale eyes flick over to Mordred, unsure of what to do or if asking is even the right action at the moment. Personally, if he wants the "real history" or whatever, he'd ask both sides and make a judgement afterwards... well, that's what he would do if this stranger wasn't so frightening--and if he had that kind of confidence/social skills in the first place. For now, he's just going to stay close to Ravna and hope that she knows what to do.
His eyes flickered to Mordred as he spoke. Though that was true, and he normally didn't just speak to anyone... Did he really have to just point that out? It made him sound antisocial... Not that it was far from the truth or anything. These were strangers though and Mordred was just an open book it would seem. Hold back his interest? It wasn't just an outsider that had piqued his interest. People he had never seen in general is more what had his attention. He wondered what his father would think of this.
He didn't look like he was much interested in saying anything else. He listened to what was said staying alongside his blonde companion.
His eyes slowly returned to Mordred a light frown on his lips at what he said about the lord being a sick joke.
"You should watch what you say Mordred... Though you may think it a sick joke he certainly doesn't and he's always listening."
A warning for his friend. He knew how Mordred felt about the lord of the land, but he usually ignored his ramblings. A slam on the table caused him to jump slightly. He hadn't expected the sound. He was used to it being somewhat quiet here. He could get a lot of reading and studying done here... It wasn't as good as home... Well... Now that he was thinking about it maybe it was better than home. He looked curiously to this group wondering what they were going to do. He himself trusted no one but Mordred.
Mordred had been friendly to him. The first to be friendly to him in this bar. Hearing someone speak about him like this irritated him. Seeing him wince oh that seemed to just make his blood boil. He could feel a snarl coming, but he clenched his jaw remaining silent but letting those green eyes settle on the man that would say such things about Mordred.
Daestra still standing staring off in a trance until the abrupt slam of the table in the background startled him out of it causing him to jump slightly and look over to see what was going on. He hadn’t been paying as much attention to the conversation as he maybe should’ve but to him this sounded rather absurd unless this stranger had personal experience traveling amongst Mordred.
Daestra looks back over to Lucian “Lucian… so you say that you’ve never left this valley? Have you ever tried to leave? As someone coming from the outside it baffles me how I could’ve ended up in another plane of existence without ever realizing I had entered it.” After speaking with Lucian briefly he walks over to Mordred questioning what is going on here.
”Mordred? May I ask who ‘Him’ is?” Whispering to Mordred as to not alert the room of his incompetence. “Everything here feels weird and unsettling, I’m not too sure what to think”
Ravna nods, then frowns at Mordred's next statement. "I am truly sorry to hear that, and if there is anything I can do to aid in your sister's situation, then please tell me. No, Muriel is not tormented by Him, she simply likes to keep to herself. If she feels like being alone, then she will have her solitude."
She turns her frown on Salem when he scolds Mordred for his words. "If he is listening now let him show himself. I respect Mordred's boldness in stating his mind and what is true. The Lord of this land is a sick joke. A sick joke that I promise you will fall."
She looks apologetically on Daestra when his plight is revealed. She had thought about telling him that issue when first meeting him, but had hoped that Muriel would have been the one to break the news. Though for being stranded here, he doesn't seem overly concerned. " 'He', the lord of this land, is Strahd von Zarovich. He is the one responsible for the state of this land." Her words come out as a bitter hiss.
She does not jump when the man slams his hand on the table, instead she turns her serious gaze upon him disapprovingly. She glances at Mordred after the man speaks, then crosses her arms. There is likely some kind of reason why this man thinks that way of Mordred, though whether it's a good one or not is a different matter. It's anyone's guess as to what happened to 'the others who put their trust in Mordred', but whatever situation led to that outcome is likely complicated. So far she likes Mordred. She likes the fact that he is willing to speak out against Strahd. Even so, she still must take other's opinions into consideration. "If you are so keen on speaking, then go ahead. Tell us the real history of this land."
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As the group begins to follow Ravna, Daestra can see a Raven looking back at them with a loud caw as well. Passing by the town a large statue comes into view. An old, chipped stone statue stands at the center of this town square, depicting a man wearing leather armor and holding a sword.
The statue bears a weather worn plaque at its base. It reads: Mordred Antovich the Great. Burgomaster of Barovia. Bane of Vampires. 618-662 BC
Things to note are... BC as a calendar date means nothing to Daestra but Ravna and Lucian knows what that means. Lucian and Ravna also know the current year is 735BC so this is a rather old statue.
Passing by the statue.. They come to an old inn the raven flies and flitters above the tavern's sign with a caw gesturing in.
A single shaft of light thrusts illumination into the main square, its brightness looking like a solid pillar in the heavy fog. Above the gaping doorway, a sign hangs precariously askew, proclaiming this to be the Blood on the Vine tavern. The V has been scratched out for an F it seems. And on has been turned to OF.
OOC
I use that generator because of Rynn now and I LOVE you're art for both!
Also I now separating is a cardinal sin in DND but in Play by Post you can separate whenever you want rather easily while exploring if desired! It is dangerous of course but possible!
Lucian stares at Daestra for a moment, finding himself confused at how the strange elf could find anything about the area breathtaking... but then again, if by breathtaking he meant frightening, Lucian might understand after all. Giving a nervous breath, he says, "Uh... I'm Lucian. Nice....Uh...nice to meet you." He doesn't extend a hand, more out of nervous forgetfulness (and perhaps lack of social skills) rather than rudeness.
When they approach the inn, Lucian squints up at the name as if not really understanding why letters are scratched out. As they make their way closer, he spends most of his time glancing between Ravna, Daestra, and every little movement as if anticipating something to jump out at him. Clearly he's not used to this environment.
OOC: Lol, yeah. I'm not a huge fan of AI art because... well it obviously steals from real artists. But it is convenient when you don't have the time or skills to draw your own character. I'm much happier with this AI image than I was of the original image I had for Lucian though. It took me FOREVER to find anything that remotely resembled him just browsing the web. So I'm glad that Rynn showed me the generator... I just have to ignore the fact that the image makes it look like Lucian has two thumbs on one hand :'D.
OOC
I think AI is okay if you aren't using it to make money or anything lol
I shall wait for Earth and Rynn a chance to post before the Inn's inside but either way I'll make a post tomorrow for it to keep things flowing ~
Ravna smiles wordlessly and gestures for the elf to follow. She knows there is much this man should learn of this land, but she believes her contact would be more equipped to explain everything.
Passing the statue, her gaze lingers on it for a brief moment. Thoughts of glory and destiny flit through her head before she looks away and continues to follow the raven.
Her mouth tightens upon seeing the inn's sign, but she barely hesitates before walking in with her confident stride. Once inside, she pauses in the doorway and scans the room looking for either familiar faces or suspicious ones.
Perception: 21 (nat 20)
(OOC: Sorry I missed posting yesterday! The power in my area went out, so both Aroc and I have no power. Last night had some crazy weather lol. I think we should be good with posting now though.
Lol yeah, I agree with that Shield Hero. I like the AI art as a tool, but it really really irks me when i see people trying to sell it.)
As Ravna enters prepared to look at every face, she see's one man with dark hair and green eyes talking to what seems to be an armored individual. The armored individual was blonde and looked rather worn, though his armor was dirty and scratched up it looked heavy and durable more so than anything Lucian or Ravna would have seen. For Daestra he's only seen a few armors superior to this but they were far shinier.
There was also a plump man next to an extremely muscular young man drinking. A glassy eye bartender and 3 colorfully dressed women.. Likely Vistani by the way of dress. Though Vistani had meant nothing to Daestra. Nothing was familiar in here to Ravna except.. The blonde looked not to unfamiliar to the statue outside albeit younger looking. He wore a worn down symbol of the Morninglord but it was a lot less intricate than Andrews own symbol and even more worn than her own.
As they all make way in, the blonde armored man looked them over revealing he had a longsword on his side and a shield on his back. He seemed a bit curious of them, enough that he had stood up and offered a smile. Faint and cleary tired.. but by the valley's standards? There was still a light a spark of something in those eyes.
"Hail, we don't get many new faces around here. My name is Mordred and... a Dusk elf? Wait.. you're friend he's an elf too but his skin is all.. Wrong? Ahh that sounds rude I apologize greatly."
Though he has a rather sour face he seems almost... Excited to see newcomers enter the village.
OOC
Oh yeah they shouldn't try to make money off of it for sure!
Here he is!
And now Kirai's chance to post as well!
The young man next to the armored blonde slowly looked up at him as he stood up. Was he just going to talk to these strangers?
Yes... Yes he was.
His green eyes lingered on the blonde for a moment before he turned his head to get a look at the people he had decided to speak to. He had a book open in front of him, but he closed it now. It would seem that this had his attention. Unlike the blonde he didn't offer his name or greet them. There was curiosity in his eyes. Who were these people? What had brought them here?
"Mordred you should really be more careful with what you say."
He slowly stood up next to him and offered a small bow his hand on his chest.
"My name is Salem."
He offers a small smile, but it doesn't seem like talking with strangers is something he does or likes to do often.
Lucian stays in Ravna's shadow, clearly trying not to draw too much attention to himself while also not actually hiding. He shivers a little when the armored stranger approaches them, forcing himself to remember that not every human is an enemy... heck, he's following one right now. Good grief, he needs to get over himself. Shaking his head, he takes in a deep breath, closing his eyes for a brief moment and hoping that no one notices. Once he's managed to (mostly) calm his nerves he looks back up at the stranger....er....Mordred... only to give a start when Mordred makes a comment on his being a Dusk elf. He blinks, then gives a wry smile when he realizes that Mordred had said the same thing about Daestra as he'd been thinking earlier. Chuckling a little, he rubs the back of his head and says, "It...it's okay... well... I think its okay..." He glances at Daestra, "W...we just met him, I think he's an outsider?" He says it questioningly, even though he's more than sure the pale elf is not from these cursed lands.
"Uh...Oh... I'm Lucian," he gives an awkward wave when the dark haired fellow comes over, still maintaining a nervous smile. "This is my first time in... uh... this area." He glances at Ravna, not really sure what to tell these people, or if they really should tell them anything yet.
Daestra is distracted by the various people here at the Inn, but overheard the blonde question whether he was a dusk elf or not. Daestra intervenes “No, sorry sir but I am a wood elf, not from these parts. My name is Daestra by the way.” Daestra offers his hand and smiles. He looks over at the young man next to him and greets him as well.
Daestra looks over at Ravna “Should I ask him about the Burgomaster? Or is that a bad idea at this time?” Daestra asks nervously not knowing whether he should trust the people in this town. Something definitely seems off to him.
OOC
I'll give Rynn a chance to post/respond before I do but will likely post tomorrow either way just to keep the heart beat~
Ravna takes note of each noteworthy individual and gives Mordred a slight bow when he introduces himself. "Ravna Korosis. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am no stranger to this town, but it has been many years since my last visit." In many ways this village is much the same as she remembered in her childhood, but in many others it was very different. Not surprising seeing how it is often ravaged by undead.
When Salem approaches, she gives him a slight bow as well. The tall white haired woman looks over the man thoroughly. She is pretty sure she knows who Mordred is, and if she is right how much hold does this stranger have over him? Who exactly is he? How long has he been here? She does not seem overly suspicious of the man, but she's clearly curious. She leans towards Daestra when he whispers to her and gives a slight smile before turning back to Mordred. "Sir Mordred, would I be correct in assuming you are the current Burgomaster of this village? ...and if you don't mind my asking, have you had any other visitors recently? I am looking for a woman by the name of Muriel."
Mordred shakes Daestra's hand with a light smile. Nodding to Lucian as well, his eyes raise when Salem introduces himself.
"Ahh Salem, you're not normally the social type. However.. a wood elf? It sounds new.. And exciting even you couldn't hold back you're interest huh?"
Mordred turns to Ravna as she mentions she is no stranger to the town. His eyes stare unflinchingly into her own.
"Ahh there is a chance that father must have known about you. Maybe we met ourselves in passing even Ravna, that is a strong but beautiful name."
As Ravna compares the past to the present.. She notices the village looks so different and much of the destruction and decay is.. More recent almost as if a massive attack had taken place not long ago. Lucian and her recall a rumor.. That Castle Ravenloft has been more active the last month. Even Mordred looks somewhat familiar to Ravna which explains why he is trying his best to remember her as well. Salem however? This face holds nothing to her.
Mordred's light smile turns to a smile as grief invades his eyes upon Ravna's question. He looks to the bar keep before sitting at the table.
"Arik get us some drinks if you would."
The barkeep with a light grunt and glazed eyes begins to make a few drinks as Mordred places two gold on the table. He looks to Ravna thinking upon her question.
"Yes.. I mean I am now unfortunately. My father passed away in the last attack from Ravenloft, afterwards however they have simply.. Stopped. Technically the village has to elect me worthy of succeeding my father. Till that election I only serve as acting Burgomeister. I doubt however they'll select me and in truth? I cannot blame them. Hm? Muriel? No I can't say I have you're the only outsiders that have come into town lately I apologize. I can tell my scouts to keep an eye out for her though."
Ravna responds to Mordred's compliment with a small smile and nod, refraining from answering vocally. A hint of recognition lights her eyes, but as more memories return, the more she realizes how much suffering this place has seen in her absents. Perhaps the rumors are true.
She looks a bit concerned when the blond man states no other outsiders have visited recently. Had her eyes betrayed her? No. She recognized that bird. Now she can only hope she had not made a mistake in revealing Muriel's name. "I am sorry to hear of your father's passing." She states sincerely, while trying to beat back memories of her own father. "I am sure you will be able to prove yourself to these people, but if they chose not to follow you, then perhaps your fate holds a different purpose." Her words may sound sinister, but she is genuinely trying to be positive. "I appreciate your willingness to help locate Muriel, but if she does not wish to be found, she won't be. So let your scouts continue their usual work and protect the people of this village."
Setting her lance against the wall, she gratefully accepts the offered drink.
Lucian isn't sure what to say or do at the moment, aside from try his best not to look completely out of place....
He hunches down a little at the mention of drinks, not wanting to decline but also not really interested in testing his constitution for the first time. After a moment, he glances around only to force himself to pay attention to the people in front of him. This is as safe a location as he's been in for the past few days, so he might as well take some time to try and relax.
After a few moments of failed attempts to start talking, he manages to ask Daestra, "So... uh... um.... How long have you been wandering in these lands? I... well... It's really dangerous to be alone and away from a village." He averts his eyes, rubbing a thumb up and down the chain of his pocket watch. "Are... you a skilled fighter? I would assume you are if you've been wandering but... heheh..." he gives a nervous laugh, then rubs the back of his neck. "Well... I guess I'm just asking how long you've been trapped here? Most outsiders don't exactly come here uh... willingly, so..." He trails off, feeling like he might not really want to ask these questions and not really sure why he did in the first place. Hopefully he didn't strike any sensitive cords... he's just never met an outsider before, much less a pale elf.
Daestra looks over at Lucian and replies “How long have I been exploring? Hmm.. well… I think I’ve been taking note of the land for maybe 3 weeks now?” As Daestra stands there puzzled for a moment trying to think whether he is remembering correctly or not.
“I agree though it is quite dangerous out in these lands, you never know what you will come across. But I am not too worried about most things, I’m a rather skilled Archer on leave from my guardsman duties in my village currently.” Daestra appears slightly confused and worried when Lucian mentions being trapped here.
”Wait… were trapped here? I was just exploring the woods and happened upon this place, how could we get trapped here? Is this why I have never seen this place on any of my maps before?” Daestra gets lost in thought staring off at Lucian as he nervously taps his foot on the floor.
Mordred looks to Ravna tilting his head curiously a moment.
"My fate... Holds a different purpose?"
Mordred's eyes turn to worry upon hearing of Muriel not wanting to be found.
"Her too? Is she desired by the lord of the land? Is that why she is hiding? My sister.. I wish I could hide her the same way... That sounds terrible I know.. But the lord of this land has.. Taken an interest in her. Lord... what a sick joke"
His eyes begin to reflect with more than despair and defeat.. But hatred runs in those eyes. A few eyes in the bar turn to Mordred on this statement casting judgmental gazes for his words.
Mordred looks to Lucian than to Daestra with a look of mourning the hatred escaping his eyes now.
I am sorry ser Daestra but.. You are trapped in the valley by the mist. No one may leave without... "His" permission. That permission is only ever granted to the traitorous Vistani."
As the group awaits for drinks Mordred looks to them once more.
"If you have questions about the village or anything else please ask.. I know it can be confusing for outsiders. I'm here to help.. The best I can."
In that moment..something slams against a nearby table—and the sound draws their attention to a man sitting not far away, his clenched fist twitching against his table's wooden surface. He is squat, with greasy receding salt-and-pepper hair and a patched, well-worn coat. A scowl mars his face as he turns his dark eyes toward your group. "
It's a fool's errand to put your faith in Mordred the Lesser,"
he rasps, eyes lingering upon each of them.
"Best to seek better company, lest you wind up in the ground with the last fools that trusted him."
Mordred winces to this man's words as their drinks are brought over to each of them.
"If you want.. The real history of this land.. The village and what exactly happened? Best ask me, his sorry ass won't be able to help believe me on that."
OOC
I decided to post though Kirai hasn't but I'll give them a chance to post later! ^^
Lucian shrinks a little when it seems that Daestra had no clue about being trapped prior to him bringing it up. He nods as Mordred confirms to the outsider that once someone is inside the mists there is no leaving. He can't imagine what must be going through Daestra's head at the moment, and can't help but feel bad about being the first to break the news to him.
"None of us have ever left the Valley," he says quietly. Even their souls are trapped here--something he won't say right now for fear of making things worse. Plus, he can't help but hope that's not true. "Sorry... I... uh... don't really know what to say. I guess there isn't really anything to say." He resumes rubbing his thumb up and down the chain around his neck as he slowly sinks back into his (more) nervous state from earlier.
Then the sound of something slamming against a table nearby causes him to let out a surprised yelp and nearly jump out of his own skin. He looks around frantically before locating the scowling stranger. Something about the guy and the way he is talking about Mordred causes Lucian's hackles to raise. Sure, he doesn't know Mordred at all, but he's been nice so far. So having this person talk like that about him? Well it doesn't sit right.
His pale eyes flick over to Mordred, unsure of what to do or if asking is even the right action at the moment. Personally, if he wants the "real history" or whatever, he'd ask both sides and make a judgement afterwards... well, that's what he would do if this stranger wasn't so frightening--and if he had that kind of confidence/social skills in the first place. For now, he's just going to stay close to Ravna and hope that she knows what to do.
His eyes flickered to Mordred as he spoke. Though that was true, and he normally didn't just speak to anyone... Did he really have to just point that out? It made him sound antisocial... Not that it was far from the truth or anything. These were strangers though and Mordred was just an open book it would seem. Hold back his interest? It wasn't just an outsider that had piqued his interest. People he had never seen in general is more what had his attention. He wondered what his father would think of this.
He didn't look like he was much interested in saying anything else. He listened to what was said staying alongside his blonde companion.
His eyes slowly returned to Mordred a light frown on his lips at what he said about the lord being a sick joke.
"You should watch what you say Mordred... Though you may think it a sick joke he certainly doesn't and he's always listening."
A warning for his friend. He knew how Mordred felt about the lord of the land, but he usually ignored his ramblings. A slam on the table caused him to jump slightly. He hadn't expected the sound. He was used to it being somewhat quiet here. He could get a lot of reading and studying done here... It wasn't as good as home... Well... Now that he was thinking about it maybe it was better than home. He looked curiously to this group wondering what they were going to do. He himself trusted no one but Mordred.
Mordred had been friendly to him. The first to be friendly to him in this bar. Hearing someone speak about him like this irritated him. Seeing him wince oh that seemed to just make his blood boil. He could feel a snarl coming, but he clenched his jaw remaining silent but letting those green eyes settle on the man that would say such things about Mordred.
Daestra still standing staring off in a trance until the abrupt slam of the table in the background startled him out of it causing him to jump slightly and look over to see what was going on. He hadn’t been paying as much attention to the conversation as he maybe should’ve but to him this sounded rather absurd unless this stranger had personal experience traveling amongst Mordred.
Daestra looks back over to Lucian “Lucian… so you say that you’ve never left this valley? Have you ever tried to leave? As someone coming from the outside it baffles me how I could’ve ended up in another plane of existence without ever realizing I had entered it.” After speaking with Lucian briefly he walks over to Mordred questioning what is going on here.
”Mordred? May I ask who ‘Him’ is?” Whispering to Mordred as to not alert the room of his incompetence. “Everything here feels weird and unsettling, I’m not too sure what to think”
OOC
After Rynn's post I shall throw another one up~!
Ravna nods, then frowns at Mordred's next statement. "I am truly sorry to hear that, and if there is anything I can do to aid in your sister's situation, then please tell me. No, Muriel is not tormented by Him, she simply likes to keep to herself. If she feels like being alone, then she will have her solitude."
She turns her frown on Salem when he scolds Mordred for his words. "If he is listening now let him show himself. I respect Mordred's boldness in stating his mind and what is true. The Lord of this land is a sick joke. A sick joke that I promise you will fall."
She looks apologetically on Daestra when his plight is revealed. She had thought about telling him that issue when first meeting him, but had hoped that Muriel would have been the one to break the news. Though for being stranded here, he doesn't seem overly concerned. " 'He', the lord of this land, is Strahd von Zarovich. He is the one responsible for the state of this land." Her words come out as a bitter hiss.
She does not jump when the man slams his hand on the table, instead she turns her serious gaze upon him disapprovingly. She glances at Mordred after the man speaks, then crosses her arms. There is likely some kind of reason why this man thinks that way of Mordred, though whether it's a good one or not is a different matter. It's anyone's guess as to what happened to 'the others who put their trust in Mordred', but whatever situation led to that outcome is likely complicated. So far she likes Mordred. She likes the fact that he is willing to speak out against Strahd. Even so, she still must take other's opinions into consideration. "If you are so keen on speaking, then go ahead. Tell us the real history of this land."