Dallid - If you would like to gather a better idea of the condition of those bitten, please make a medicine check. if you wish to discern more about the vampire spawn cadaver, please make either an investigation check or a nature check. ((We shall treat this as a brief downtime prior to any long rest taken))
Dallid - If you would like to gather a better idea of the condition of those bitten, please make a medicine check. if you wish to discern more about the vampire spawn cadaver, please make either an investigation check or a nature check. ((We shall treat this as a brief downtime prior to any long rest taken))
You check over both Cerio and Father Lucian's bite marks. The skin around the wounds appears to have necrosed. Thankfully, in both cases, the damage seems to be surface level and the disease is not spreading. You believe that a long rest should heal the worst of the damage.
Furthermore, you are able to tell that the Father's wound was inflicted in haste; it is not as deep as Cerio's and the teeth marks are raking. It is likely that whoever was responsible for inflicting the bite on the priest was interrupted.
Needless to say, from your pre-existing biological knowledge, if the disease were to have spread there is a good chance that the victim would join the ranks of the undead.
Investigation
You investigate the vampire spawns body further. It is clear that her regenerative ability had been hampered towards the end of the fight. When you focus on the wounds caused by radiant/holy damage, you can see that the skin and bone have failed to knit together. It is your view that causing this radiant damage would delay any regeneration.
It appears as though the commonly held myths surrounding vampires are, at least in part, true. Sunlight, something distinctively absent in Barovia, is likely to remove the vampire's regenerative ability. Perhaps if you were to somehow simulate sunlight it may have a similar effect.
((Basically, Dallid now knows some of the core properties of vampires; their vulnerabilities and resistances. If given longer, perhaps more might be able to be discerned.))
Dallid voices his discoveries to anyone nearby willing to listen. "I think I'd like to bring the vampire's body with me for further study. Could someone help to carry it?"
"Thank you for your kind words father, but the next time we face those fiends I will need to stronger. I will let this experience renew my faith and seek a deeper connection with my god. Though I am happy we did manage to save you from that dark fate," says Dormark
Listening passively in silence to the various exchanges, Galqarin offers Dallid his assistance with the deceased vampire. "I carry", he says simply. The irony of one monster carrying another is not lost on him.
"You mean to take the beast with you?" Father Lucian's voice contains a tone of disbelief. "Well, I guess that'd be safer than keeping it here, do you mean to leave for Krezk in the morning?"
Ismark looks at the assembled group, "I think that would be best, Father. Though I do not want to be presumptive, I believe that was the plan."
Valerie nods and addresses the group, "I think it'd be best if I stayed with Father Lucian." She pays particular attention to Baern, Dormark, Galqarin and Sandu, the companions she had only spent the last week with but knew had her back. "Besides, I feel like I have a personal errand Tyr is asking me to undertake here, in Vallaki."
"Your assistance in re-establishing our defences following this attack would also be greatly appreciated, my lady," Vasili says. "If I may be so bold. I will see that Vallaki aids you in whatever ways it can in return."
Baern shifts on the spot, "I would stay and look for Ioben." He looks perturbed at the thought of abandoning anyone. "Bu' I need ta follow any leads a'can regardin' my mother." He retrieves the small, carved wooden figures from his bag; one of the only momentos he had of his mother. "Valerie, I have ta."
"I understand, Baern,"Valerie says simply. "You have to do what you feel to be right. I'll hold down the fort here. You may have forgotten that we are now local property owners."
"Splendid,"Vasili chimes in. "I will take my leave. Any other ways I can be of assistance, please let me know. Vallaki owes you a great debt. I believe that is three separate occasions you have helped the town in the last couple of days." He leaves the church.
"Well I for one am shattered,"Father Lucian declares. It seemed impossible that the man could look any older, yet it still looked like he had aged another 10-15 years due to recent events. "Good night."
Valerie turns to the rest of the group. "Would it be wise to keep watch?"she asks, "or is that something your ravens are able to do Sandu?"
((Tried to wrap up most of the events of Day #6. I shall post an update in due course for the start of Day #7. If anyone wants to RP any other elements before the end of the day they can always add them in as flashbacks.))
Sandu gave the mental command to all three ravens to return and for Pepi to bring the card along. He went over the sights they had seen in his mind and listened in with half an ear to what the others were discussing while waiting for his birds to return. That did not take long, flight certainly had its advantages, and soon enough three bluish black balls of feathers flew into the church and aligned themselves themselves neatly on top of the pew Sandu was sitting on. He took the card out of Pepi's beak.
'The church wasn't the only site attacked.' Sandu's head rested on the top of the pew and his eyes were still closed. 'Other places got hit as well. Vallaki is burning.'
He spoke in a matter-of-fact tone but he attributed that to the weariness that was creeping up on him. And with everything that had transpired up to now, buildings on fire just seemed par for the course. He would have been more surprised if everything was normal.
Valerie turns to the rest of the group. "Would it be wise to keep watch?"she asks, "or is that something your ravens are able to do Sandu?"
'Afraid not.' Sandu replied. He deigned to open one eye to at least look at Valerie while he spoke to her. 'I'm not entirely sure how they operate but as far as I can tell: when I doze off, they doze off. Sorry.'He genuinely felt sorry about it. He had an inkling that his ravens were like the familiars every wizard worth their spellbook had but whereas they could only summon one, he could summon three and figured that increase in power meant a decrease in time. At least it meant that he was powerful enough to command three familiars rather than the paltry one other wizards could. Suck on that. No magical talent, my ass. Sandu mentally grinned, his actual face muscles not having the energy to bring up said grin.
'I also have word from Ioben.'He waved the card in the air to draw attention. He read the message verbatim without much fanfare:
Dear all,
I stand here knowing that the choice I make may have rammifications felt throughout the land.
I have found powerful allies for our cause.
They have asked that I meet with their leader, though I have been asked to do so alone.
I travel to Krezk.
A trap? It could be in some capacity.
But Strahd? I do not expect him, not one bit.
Yours, Ioben
P.s. Vauquelin sends his regards.
Sandu let the words hang in the air for a moment. Allies sounded good: they could use all the help they could get. The fact they had asked Ioben to come and meet them alone less so.
'Potential allies and a destination. Guess we have our plan laid out for us.' Sandu put down the card. He said his goodbyes to both Father Lucian and Vasili when they left before turning to Valerie.
'Nine hells, you're right.'He had in all the commotion forgotten that they had been bequeathed Henrik's shop. Unpleasant as it had proven, the thought of spending the night in an actual home held immense appeal to him. 'Henrik's shop. Well, our shop now, I suppose. Lead the way, miss Valerie.'
Sandu got up from the church pew and beckoned his ravens to follow. They fluttered and slowly glided above his head as he made his way to the front door.
Anything Sandu does before a long rest shall be added in the next post.
"It may serve us to be a benefit to stay at the church Sandu. In case the Vampires come in for a second attack. Normally I could stand watch through the whole night for us, but since coming here it been a bit different," says Dormark.
Valerie listens to Sandu read the message. "Bit odd, isn't it?" she says confused, "especially that last bit. It doesn't sound like something Ioben would say. I mean, that does look like one of his cards, but it just sounds... odd."
"Aye," Baern says agreeing with Dormark,"either stay in the church or take Father Lucian with us. Migh' be a bi' cramped at Henrik's... that is to say our's."
"Perhaps it is best that Father Lucian does not stay at the church. Besides, he must be in quite a bit of shock since the attack."Valerie says, her voice wrapped with concern for the elderly priest.
Making their way through the streets of Vallaki from the Church of St. Andral's, the party saw first-hand the extent of the devastation wrought. The mood is sombre as the streets are abuzz with activity; house fires light the streets, the heat and smell overwhelming, there is a persistent wailing sound of mourning and the low murmur of discontent and anger. Though the attack appears to be over, it will undoubtedly take a while for the Vallakians to rebuild.
The Coffin Maker's Shop, previously under the ownership of Henrik (now deceased), subsequently granted to the party by the town's burgomaster (Baron Vargas) seems to have escaped most of the damage. Its windows are still boarded, courtesy of the previous owner, and its interior is bleak and unwelcoming. Empty coffins litter the store, thirteen in total. Sawdust covers the floor and cobwebs hang from the walls, it is clear that Henrik did not undertake much housekeeping towards the end of his life. The top floor does not fair much better, in the large open storage room planks of wood are piled against the walls. As before, cobwebs and dust cling to almost every surface.
Conditions are cramped yet relatively comfortable as the party settles down for the night, weary after a long day. For the newer members of the group, it is their first night in this foreign land, having been thrust there to achieve a task seemingly out of reach. Whoever this Strahd Von Zarovich was, he undoubtedly had powerful allies or servants. An overt attack on a major town; was the move bore of boldness or desperation?
Left contemplating the events of the day, the group quickly find sleep (or at least, for those unable to sleep, a restful state).
Darkness. You feel conscious yet. Is this a dream state?
An image briefly enters your minds eye. A large, hulking, beast of a man with a demonic arm - Izek Strazni. His wicked looking arm almost seems ablaze as he stands facing a swirling dark mist. The scene comes fully in focus then. There has been a gruesome battle, dead guards and ravens lie all around the man, none alive. Heavily wounded, Izek struggles forward, ready to meet his foe. He knows this will be his last stand.
Strahd's forces had taken them by surprise. Izek had been so full of ferver and anger at Rictavio that he had been unsuspecting of the threat from behind. Most of the town guards had fallen without even seeing their enemy.
The mist in front of Izek swirls and shimmers, replaced by a dashing elven man, with blond hair, in fashionable clothing. A number of vampires form up behind him. "Mr Strazni, you have long been a thorn in my master's side,"the well dressed man says sardonically.
"Afraid, y'caught me at a loss. Ain't got a clue who y'are and, frankly, don't give a damn." Izek spits back, attempting not to show the extent of his injuries.
The elven vampire draws himself upright. "Well, I guess it is only fair you know the name of the man that'll be your end,"he says playfully, "I'm Escher."
"I don't care what yer pissin' called," Izek curses, starting to charge, as best he could, towards his target. His eyes are wild and have a manic look.
Izek stops just shy of Escher. His axe drops and he clutches at his demonic arm, screaming in pain. The demonic taint, latent for so many years, begins to spread from his arm, across his shoulder, chest, and up his face. Escher, who had been enjoying a laugh at Izek's expense, gasps and looks towards his companions.
"Well? Apprehend that man!" Escher yells, his voice becoming shrill.
A few of the bolder vampire spawn approach. They do not last long. Flames curl and twist out of Izek, wrapping themselves around the approaching vampire spawn. Acting almost as tentacles they grab the hapless spawn by their legs and proceed to bind them in midair. The smell of burnt flesh is intoxicating as the fire tendrils work their way up the vampire spawn and into their mouths. Once all is said and done only burnt husks remain.
Escher, gawping as the events transfolded, curses at the kneeling Izek before taking flight. Eager to make a hasty retreat.
The dream scene starts to darken... Darkness once more. A voice booms out, it is deep and fraught with anger, "that's it, little Escher. Run back to him. Let him know what transpired here this night."
Light breaks through the cracks in the boarded windows. It is a new day in Barovia. Ismark and Ireena are already awake, busing themselves by preparing breakfast. Father Lucian, who had occupied the building's only bed, sits at a rickety old table, dozily rubbing at his neck. "Morning,"he mutters, "hope you all slept well. You've got a long journey ahead."
Dallid wakes with a smile. He stands and starts stretching, before giving Ferelyon a few stiff pats. "I slept quite well. I learn even in my sleep in this place."
"I dreamed", announces Galqarin, uncurling from the floor and flexing his still blood-spattered limbs. "Izek alive. Turn into demon. Demon and the Devil fight."
Cerio becomes lost in the many names and details projected through the air. Taking a seat in one of the pews and rubbing his temples, the background chatters blurs into a dull hum as time seems to stand still.
He jumps as a hand is placed on his shoulder. Looking up to see Ismark, Cerio tries a weak smile. "Krezk? Krezk. Sure, sounds nice. Any place but here."
Cerio considers sleeping in one of the coffins but, touching his neck, has a fervent change of heart. Instead, he curls into a corner, kicking a pile of straw into something resembling a pillow. The stench coming off of his khopesh soon overtakes the musty smell of the shop, but he has grown used to it.
In the morning, he yawns wide, revealing yellowed teeth, and cracks his neck. "Anyone got any whiskey? So, when can we leave?"
Making their way through the streets of Vallaki from the Church of St. Andral's, the party saw first-hand the extent of the devastation wrought. The mood is sombre as the streets are abuzz with activity; house fires light the streets, the heat and smell overwhelming, there is a persistent wailing sound of mourning and the low murmur of discontent and anger. Though the attack appears to be over, it will undoubtedly take a while for the Vallakians to rebuild.
The Coffin Maker's Shop, previously under the ownership of Henrik (now deceased), subsequently granted to the party by the town's burgomaster (Baron Vargas) seems to have escaped most of the damage. Its windows are still boarded, courtesy of the previous owner, and its interior is bleak and unwelcoming. Empty coffins litter the store, thirteen in total. Sawdust covers the floor and cobwebs hang from the walls, it is clear that Henrik did not undertake much housekeeping towards the end of his life. The top floor does not fair much better, in the large open storage room planks of wood are piled against the walls. As before, cobwebs and dust cling to almost every surface.
Conditions are cramped yet relatively comfortable as the party settles down for the night, weary after a long day. For the newer members of the group, it is their first night in this foreign land, having been thrust there to achieve a task seemingly out of reach. Whoever this Strahd Von Zarovich was, he undoubtedly had powerful allies or servants. An overt attack on a major town; was the move bore of boldness or desperation?
Left contemplating the events of the day, the group quickly find sleep (or at least, for those unable to sleep, a restful state).
Darkness. You feel conscious yet. Is this a dream state?
An image briefly enters your minds eye. A large, hulking, beast of a man with a demonic arm - Izek Strazni. His wicked looking arm almost seems ablaze as he stands facing a swirling dark mist. The scene comes fully in focus then. There has been a gruesome battle, dead guards and ravens lie all around the man, none alive. Heavily wounded, Izek struggles forward, ready to meet his foe. He knows this will be his last stand.
Strahd's forces had taken them by surprise. Izek had been so full of ferver and anger at Rictavio that he had been unsuspecting of the threat from behind. Most of the town guards had fallen without even seeing their enemy.
The mist in front of Izek swirls and shimmers, replaced by a dashing elven man, with blond hair, in fashionable clothing. A number of vampires form up behind him. "Mr Strazni, you have long been a thorn in my master's side,"the well dressed man says sardonically.
"Afraid, y'caught me at a loss. Ain't got a clue who y'are and, frankly, don't give a damn." Izek spits back, attempting not to show the extent of his injuries.
The elven vampire draws himself upright. "Well, I guess it is only fair you know the name of the man that'll be your end,"he says playfully, "I'm Escher."
"I don't care what yer pissin' called," Izek curses, starting to charge, as best he could, towards his target. His eyes are wild and have a manic look.
Izek stops just shy of Escher. His axe drops and he clutches at his demonic arm, screaming in pain. The demonic taint, latent for so many years, begins to spread from his arm, across his shoulder, chest, and up his face. Escher, who had been enjoying a laugh at Izek's expense, gasps and looks towards his companions.
"Well? Apprehend that man!" Escher yells, his voice becoming shrill.
A few of the bolder vampire spawn approach. They do not last long. Flames curl and twist out of Izek, wrapping themselves around the approaching vampire spawn. Acting almost as tentacles they grab the hapless spawn by their legs and proceed to bind them in midair. The smell of burnt flesh is intoxicating as the fire tendrils work their way up the vampire spawn and into their mouths. Once all is said and done only burnt husks remain.
Escher, gawping as the events transfolded, curses at the kneeling Izek before taking flight. Eager to make a hasty retreat.
The dream scene starts to darken... Darkness once more. A voice booms out, it is deep and fraught with anger, "that's it, little Escher. Run back to him. Let him know what transpired here this night."
Light breaks through the cracks in the boarded windows. It is a new day in Barovia. Ismark and Ireena are already awake, busing themselves by preparing breakfast. Father Lucian, who had occupied the building's only bed, sits at a rickety old table, dozily rubbing at his neck. "Morning,"he mutters, "hope you all slept well. You've got a long journey ahead."
Sandu said little as the group made their way to Henrik's former shop, now theirs to use. He feared that, exhausted as he was, any sentence he would start, he would fall asleep halfway through it. He said his goodnights to the others and retreated to the upper floor, taking care to avoid the closet he experienced the magical feedback loop from. After finding a spot that was relatively less dusty than most, he put down his belongings. He then sauntered over to a window and wrestled to get it to open a bit. A breath of fresh air did wonders to lift the oppressive atmospere of the house. As if on cue his three familiar ravens flew in one by one before he shut the window again. Best not to take any risks. He thought to himself.
The ravens took up various posts in the room, perching on whatever struck their fancy. Their eyes followed Sandu with great interest as he walked over to his backpack and began to unload it. 'Should still be here somewhere...'He mumbled before pulling out a lumpy package. 'A bit smushed but should still be good.'
He sat down cross-legged, unfolded the napkin and opened it up on the ground before him. It was a pastry, or it had once been one: the edges had crumbled and broken off and some of the filling had spilled out. He broke bits and pieces off into small nuggets and called over his ravens.
'It's not exactly a feast but you all deserve something.' Sandu did not know if familiars needed food, being spirits that took corporeal form, but they might enjoy it nonetheless. As Pepi and Koki pecked at the crumbs strewn, Sandu gently nestled Zazi between his arm and chest and let her pick the juicier bits straight from his palm. She had earned as much, considering.
'You did well.' Sandu softly said in between breaking off more of the pastry and stroking Zazi's feathers. 'You did well.'Pepi and Koki had hopped over and now perched themselves on either leg. 'You did well.'Sandu was not sure if he was praising the ravens or merely telling himself the words he wanted to hear said to him. 'You did well.'
Should any partymember come up, Sandu will not speak up but he will engage in conversation when addressed.
=========
He must have dozed off somewhere during the night for the next thing Sandu knew, he found himself on his side wrapped in his cloak with the hood pulled down. A beam of light had managed to shine on the one spot not hidden underneath the cloth and the sounds of breakfast informed him that dawn had arrived. Sandu sat up, loosened his cloak and stretched his limbs. Pepi, Koki and Zazi had vanished and so had most of the pastry. He dusted off the crumbs from his clothing, stood up and stretched his back for good measure. He made a meagre attempt to comb his hair and beard using his fingers before heading downstairs.
In the morning, he yawns wide, revealing yellowed teeth, and cracks his neck. "Anyone got any whiskey? So, when can we leave?"
'Must be afternoon somewhere in the world.' Sandu replied with a yawn as he walked into the room. He grabbed a chair and sat down at the breakfast table.
'Probably a moot point by now but did anyone else had the weird shadow and flame dream?' He reached for a piece of bread and some butter. The dream had been vivid. Too vivid nearly: he could swear he had felt the heat of the flames too close for comfort. And then there was that final voice. A voice belonging to someone or something that had beef with Strahd. That does not bode well. Sandu thought as he continued buttering his piece of bread.
"I'm afraid Galqarin is correct. There is the matter of Izek that we must take care of before we leave. I've prepared myself for a fight it may do well for all of you to do the same," says Dormark moving from his post by the front door where he stopped by before. Amazingly his armored shell seems to have been repaired overnight. There also seems to be a different sheen to his exterior whether a trick of the eyes, or an actual phenomenon Dormark seems to be ready to brawl. Sitting in the corner next to him the broken plate armor that was a large issue the day before.
(Blessing of the forge was used on Dormark's chainmail)
Going over to Sandu Dormark says, "I forgot to do it the day before, but would you allow me to study the ring you bought from that merchant, I can tell you what it can do." Dormark will ritual cast identify on the ring if Sandu will let him.
Dadeveth had settled in on a pile of her blankets and pack, her equine legs curled under her for the night. As others start moving around in the morning she rises, shaking stiffness out of her body. She is use to strange dreams, and is not quite certain of what to make of the dream from the previous night. This demon-man seems nearly as bad as the vampire lord they came here to deal with. Keeping her thoughts to herself, she steps outside to stretch her legs before returning to find something to eat.
The ravens took up various posts in the room, perching on whatever struck their fancy. Their eyes followed Sandu with great interest as he walked over to his backpack and began to unload it. 'Should still be here somewhere...'He mumbled before pulling out a lumpy package. 'A bit smushed but should still be good.'
He sat down cross-legged, unfolded the napkin and opened it up on the ground before him. It was a pastry, or it had once been one: the edges had crumbled and broken off and some of the filling had spilled out. He broke bits and pieces off into small nuggets and called over his ravens.
'It's not exactly a feast but you all deserve something.' Sandu did not know if familiars needed food, being spirits that took corporeal form, but they might enjoy it nonetheless. As Pepi and Koki pecked at the crumbs strewn, Sandu gently nestled Zazi between his arm and chest and let her pick the juicier bits straight from his palm. She had earned as much, considering.
'You did well.' Sandu softly said in between breaking off more of the pastry and stroking Zazi's feathers. 'You did well.'Pepi and Koki had hopped over and now perched themselves on either leg. 'You did well.'Sandu was not sure if he was praising the ravens or merely telling himself the words he wanted to hear said to him. 'You did well.'
Sandu - Perhaps adopting a little of the animal form, the familiars greedily peck at the offered pastry.
No sooner than the pastry enters the little birds' mouths than mixed, garbled messages and images spring to your mind telepathically. Bright swirling colours replace the dull, dark land of Barovia. From what you gather the pastries taste wonderful. Feelings of safety and love wash over you from the ravens as well as gratitude. The birds stagger around, appearing intoxicated, before crashing down into a deep sleep.
Dadeveth - As you step outside the scene is a mess. The streets are covered in ash and debris, a number of the townhouses contain scorch marks, and there is the faint sound of mourning in the air as Vallakians pine for lost ones. Frankly, the land seems even more bleak and grey than it did the day before. Not many people congregate around the streets, even though you are not far from the town centre (it is within eyesight). Furthermore, there is not a guard in sight.
Dallid nods and keeps drawing, as his investigation moves from those bitten to the biter
Paladin - warforged - orange
Dallid - If you would like to gather a better idea of the condition of those bitten, please make a medicine check. if you wish to discern more about the vampire spawn cadaver, please make either an investigation check or a nature check. ((We shall treat this as a brief downtime prior to any long rest taken))
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Medicine 20
Investigation 26
Paladin - warforged - orange
Dallid's Medicine and Investigation checks:
Medicine
You check over both Cerio and Father Lucian's bite marks. The skin around the wounds appears to have necrosed. Thankfully, in both cases, the damage seems to be surface level and the disease is not spreading. You believe that a long rest should heal the worst of the damage.
Furthermore, you are able to tell that the Father's wound was inflicted in haste; it is not as deep as Cerio's and the teeth marks are raking. It is likely that whoever was responsible for inflicting the bite on the priest was interrupted.
Needless to say, from your pre-existing biological knowledge, if the disease were to have spread there is a good chance that the victim would join the ranks of the undead.
Investigation
You investigate the vampire spawns body further. It is clear that her regenerative ability had been hampered towards the end of the fight. When you focus on the wounds caused by radiant/holy damage, you can see that the skin and bone have failed to knit together. It is your view that causing this radiant damage would delay any regeneration.
It appears as though the commonly held myths surrounding vampires are, at least in part, true. Sunlight, something distinctively absent in Barovia, is likely to remove the vampire's regenerative ability. Perhaps if you were to somehow simulate sunlight it may have a similar effect.
((Basically, Dallid now knows some of the core properties of vampires; their vulnerabilities and resistances. If given longer, perhaps more might be able to be discerned.))
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dallid voices his discoveries to anyone nearby willing to listen. "I think I'd like to bring the vampire's body with me for further study. Could someone help to carry it?"
Paladin - warforged - orange
"Thank you for your kind words father, but the next time we face those fiends I will need to stronger. I will let this experience renew my faith and seek a deeper connection with my god. Though I am happy we did manage to save you from that dark fate," says Dormark
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Listening passively in silence to the various exchanges, Galqarin offers Dallid his assistance with the deceased vampire. "I carry", he says simply. The irony of one monster carrying another is not lost on him.
Night - Day 6/7 - St. Andral's Church
"You mean to take the beast with you?" Father Lucian's voice contains a tone of disbelief. "Well, I guess that'd be safer than keeping it here, do you mean to leave for Krezk in the morning?"
Ismark looks at the assembled group, "I think that would be best, Father. Though I do not want to be presumptive, I believe that was the plan."
Valerie nods and addresses the group, "I think it'd be best if I stayed with Father Lucian." She pays particular attention to Baern, Dormark, Galqarin and Sandu, the companions she had only spent the last week with but knew had her back. "Besides, I feel like I have a personal errand Tyr is asking me to undertake here, in Vallaki."
"Your assistance in re-establishing our defences following this attack would also be greatly appreciated, my lady," Vasili says. "If I may be so bold. I will see that Vallaki aids you in whatever ways it can in return."
Baern shifts on the spot, "I would stay and look for Ioben." He looks perturbed at the thought of abandoning anyone. "Bu' I need ta follow any leads a'can regardin' my mother." He retrieves the small, carved wooden figures from his bag; one of the only momentos he had of his mother. "Valerie, I have ta."
"I understand, Baern," Valerie says simply. "You have to do what you feel to be right. I'll hold down the fort here. You may have forgotten that we are now local property owners."
"Splendid," Vasili chimes in. "I will take my leave. Any other ways I can be of assistance, please let me know. Vallaki owes you a great debt. I believe that is three separate occasions you have helped the town in the last couple of days." He leaves the church.
"Well I for one am shattered," Father Lucian declares. It seemed impossible that the man could look any older, yet it still looked like he had aged another 10-15 years due to recent events. "Good night."
Valerie turns to the rest of the group. "Would it be wise to keep watch?" she asks, "or is that something your ravens are able to do Sandu?"
((Tried to wrap up most of the events of Day #6. I shall post an update in due course for the start of Day #7. If anyone wants to RP any other elements before the end of the day they can always add them in as flashbacks.))
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Sandu gave the mental command to all three ravens to return and for Pepi to bring the card along. He went over the sights they had seen in his mind and listened in with half an ear to what the others were discussing while waiting for his birds to return. That did not take long, flight certainly had its advantages, and soon enough three bluish black balls of feathers flew into the church and aligned themselves themselves neatly on top of the pew Sandu was sitting on. He took the card out of Pepi's beak.
'The church wasn't the only site attacked.' Sandu's head rested on the top of the pew and his eyes were still closed. 'Other places got hit as well. Vallaki is burning.'
He spoke in a matter-of-fact tone but he attributed that to the weariness that was creeping up on him. And with everything that had transpired up to now, buildings on fire just seemed par for the course. He would have been more surprised if everything was normal.
'Afraid not.' Sandu replied. He deigned to open one eye to at least look at Valerie while he spoke to her. 'I'm not entirely sure how they operate but as far as I can tell: when I doze off, they doze off. Sorry.' He genuinely felt sorry about it. He had an inkling that his ravens were like the familiars every wizard worth their spellbook had but whereas they could only summon one, he could summon three and figured that increase in power meant a decrease in time. At least it meant that he was powerful enough to command three familiars rather than the paltry one other wizards could. Suck on that. No magical talent, my ass. Sandu mentally grinned, his actual face muscles not having the energy to bring up said grin.
'I also have word from Ioben.' He waved the card in the air to draw attention. He read the message verbatim without much fanfare:
Sandu let the words hang in the air for a moment. Allies sounded good: they could use all the help they could get. The fact they had asked Ioben to come and meet them alone less so.
'Potential allies and a destination. Guess we have our plan laid out for us.' Sandu put down the card. He said his goodbyes to both Father Lucian and Vasili when they left before turning to Valerie.
'Nine hells, you're right.' He had in all the commotion forgotten that they had been bequeathed Henrik's shop. Unpleasant as it had proven, the thought of spending the night in an actual home held immense appeal to him. 'Henrik's shop. Well, our shop now, I suppose. Lead the way, miss Valerie.'
Sandu got up from the church pew and beckoned his ravens to follow. They fluttered and slowly glided above his head as he made his way to the front door.
Anything Sandu does before a long rest shall be added in the next post.
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Valerius Sergius Publius: Dhampir Paladin - Vae Victus
"It may serve us to be a benefit to stay at the church Sandu. In case the Vampires come in for a second attack. Normally I could stand watch through the whole night for us, but since coming here it been a bit different," says Dormark.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Valerie listens to Sandu read the message. "Bit odd, isn't it?" she says confused, "especially that last bit. It doesn't sound like something Ioben would say. I mean, that does look like one of his cards, but it just sounds... odd."
"Aye," Baern says agreeing with Dormark, "either stay in the church or take Father Lucian with us. Migh' be a bi' cramped at Henrik's... that is to say our's."
"Perhaps it is best that Father Lucian does not stay at the church. Besides, he must be in quite a bit of shock since the attack." Valerie says, her voice wrapped with concern for the elderly priest.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Night - Day 6/7 - Coffin Maker's Shop
Making their way through the streets of Vallaki from the Church of St. Andral's, the party saw first-hand the extent of the devastation wrought. The mood is sombre as the streets are abuzz with activity; house fires light the streets, the heat and smell overwhelming, there is a persistent wailing sound of mourning and the low murmur of discontent and anger. Though the attack appears to be over, it will undoubtedly take a while for the Vallakians to rebuild.
The Coffin Maker's Shop, previously under the ownership of Henrik (now deceased), subsequently granted to the party by the town's burgomaster (Baron Vargas) seems to have escaped most of the damage. Its windows are still boarded, courtesy of the previous owner, and its interior is bleak and unwelcoming. Empty coffins litter the store, thirteen in total. Sawdust covers the floor and cobwebs hang from the walls, it is clear that Henrik did not undertake much housekeeping towards the end of his life. The top floor does not fair much better, in the large open storage room planks of wood are piled against the walls. As before, cobwebs and dust cling to almost every surface.
Conditions are cramped yet relatively comfortable as the party settles down for the night, weary after a long day. For the newer members of the group, it is their first night in this foreign land, having been thrust there to achieve a task seemingly out of reach. Whoever this Strahd Von Zarovich was, he undoubtedly had powerful allies or servants. An overt attack on a major town; was the move bore of boldness or desperation?
Left contemplating the events of the day, the group quickly find sleep (or at least, for those unable to sleep, a restful state).
Light breaks through the cracks in the boarded windows. It is a new day in Barovia. Ismark and Ireena are already awake, busing themselves by preparing breakfast. Father Lucian, who had occupied the building's only bed, sits at a rickety old table, dozily rubbing at his neck. "Morning," he mutters, "hope you all slept well. You've got a long journey ahead."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dallid wakes with a smile. He stands and starts stretching, before giving Ferelyon a few stiff pats. "I slept quite well. I learn even in my sleep in this place."
Paladin - warforged - orange
"I dreamed", announces Galqarin, uncurling from the floor and flexing his still blood-spattered limbs. "Izek alive. Turn into demon. Demon and the Devil fight."
Cerio becomes lost in the many names and details projected through the air. Taking a seat in one of the pews and rubbing his temples, the background chatters blurs into a dull hum as time seems to stand still.
He jumps as a hand is placed on his shoulder. Looking up to see Ismark, Cerio tries a weak smile. "Krezk? Krezk. Sure, sounds nice. Any place but here."
Cerio considers sleeping in one of the coffins but, touching his neck, has a fervent change of heart. Instead, he curls into a corner, kicking a pile of straw into something resembling a pillow. The stench coming off of his khopesh soon overtakes the musty smell of the shop, but he has grown used to it.
In the morning, he yawns wide, revealing yellowed teeth, and cracks his neck. "Anyone got any whiskey? So, when can we leave?"
Sandu said little as the group made their way to Henrik's former shop, now theirs to use. He feared that, exhausted as he was, any sentence he would start, he would fall asleep halfway through it. He said his goodnights to the others and retreated to the upper floor, taking care to avoid the closet he experienced the magical feedback loop from. After finding a spot that was relatively less dusty than most, he put down his belongings. He then sauntered over to a window and wrestled to get it to open a bit. A breath of fresh air did wonders to lift the oppressive atmospere of the house. As if on cue his three familiar ravens flew in one by one before he shut the window again. Best not to take any risks. He thought to himself.
The ravens took up various posts in the room, perching on whatever struck their fancy. Their eyes followed Sandu with great interest as he walked over to his backpack and began to unload it. 'Should still be here somewhere...' He mumbled before pulling out a lumpy package. 'A bit smushed but should still be good.'
He sat down cross-legged, unfolded the napkin and opened it up on the ground before him. It was a pastry, or it had once been one: the edges had crumbled and broken off and some of the filling had spilled out. He broke bits and pieces off into small nuggets and called over his ravens.
'It's not exactly a feast but you all deserve something.' Sandu did not know if familiars needed food, being spirits that took corporeal form, but they might enjoy it nonetheless. As Pepi and Koki pecked at the crumbs strewn, Sandu gently nestled Zazi between his arm and chest and let her pick the juicier bits straight from his palm. She had earned as much, considering.
'You did well.' Sandu softly said in between breaking off more of the pastry and stroking Zazi's feathers. 'You did well.' Pepi and Koki had hopped over and now perched themselves on either leg. 'You did well.' Sandu was not sure if he was praising the ravens or merely telling himself the words he wanted to hear said to him. 'You did well.'
Should any partymember come up, Sandu will not speak up but he will engage in conversation when addressed.
=========
He must have dozed off somewhere during the night for the next thing Sandu knew, he found himself on his side wrapped in his cloak with the hood pulled down. A beam of light had managed to shine on the one spot not hidden underneath the cloth and the sounds of breakfast informed him that dawn had arrived. Sandu sat up, loosened his cloak and stretched his limbs. Pepi, Koki and Zazi had vanished and so had most of the pastry. He dusted off the crumbs from his clothing, stood up and stretched his back for good measure. He made a meagre attempt to comb his hair and beard using his fingers before heading downstairs.
'Must be afternoon somewhere in the world.' Sandu replied with a yawn as he walked into the room. He grabbed a chair and sat down at the breakfast table.
'Probably a moot point by now but did anyone else had the weird shadow and flame dream?' He reached for a piece of bread and some butter. The dream had been vivid. Too vivid nearly: he could swear he had felt the heat of the flames too close for comfort. And then there was that final voice. A voice belonging to someone or something that had beef with Strahd. That does not bode well. Sandu thought as he continued buttering his piece of bread.
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Valerius Sergius Publius: Dhampir Paladin - Vae Victus
"I'm afraid Galqarin is correct. There is the matter of Izek that we must take care of before we leave. I've prepared myself for a fight it may do well for all of you to do the same," says Dormark moving from his post by the front door where he stopped by before. Amazingly his armored shell seems to have been repaired overnight. There also seems to be a different sheen to his exterior whether a trick of the eyes, or an actual phenomenon Dormark seems to be ready to brawl. Sitting in the corner next to him the broken plate armor that was a large issue the day before.
(Blessing of the forge was used on Dormark's chainmail)
Going over to Sandu Dormark says, "I forgot to do it the day before, but would you allow me to study the ring you bought from that merchant, I can tell you what it can do." Dormark will ritual cast identify on the ring if Sandu will let him.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Dadeveth had settled in on a pile of her blankets and pack, her equine legs curled under her for the night. As others start moving around in the morning she rises, shaking stiffness out of her body. She is use to strange dreams, and is not quite certain of what to make of the dream from the previous night. This demon-man seems nearly as bad as the vampire lord they came here to deal with. Keeping her thoughts to herself, she steps outside to stretch her legs before returning to find something to eat.
Sandu - Perhaps adopting a little of the animal form, the familiars greedily peck at the offered pastry.
No sooner than the pastry enters the little birds' mouths than mixed, garbled messages and images spring to your mind telepathically. Bright swirling colours replace the dull, dark land of Barovia. From what you gather the pastries taste wonderful. Feelings of safety and love wash over you from the ravens as well as gratitude. The birds stagger around, appearing intoxicated, before crashing down into a deep sleep.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dadeveth - As you step outside the scene is a mess. The streets are covered in ash and debris, a number of the townhouses contain scorch marks, and there is the faint sound of mourning in the air as Vallakians pine for lost ones. Frankly, the land seems even more bleak and grey than it did the day before. Not many people congregate around the streets, even though you are not far from the town centre (it is within eyesight). Furthermore, there is not a guard in sight.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)