When Zeflamakes her comment about the Vistani being the 'best thing we've come across,' she earns a sharp look from the two guards, who have settled back into their post. One of them taps a sign, reading REMEMBER: ALL VISTANI SERVE THE DEVIL. Above those words is a less than tasteful caricature of a Vistani man, with beads in his hair and exaggerated, ugly features.
Ireena seems agreeable to continuing on with you a little longer. "The cathedral seems quite close to the orphanage." She looks down at Saskia and asks her, "What do you think? Would you like to see the church? I'll bet its the biggest building you've ever seen." The girl, already awestruck by the scale of Vallaki, merely nods in wonder.
It is 3/4 of a mile from the Morning Gate to St. Andral's Cathedral, which lies at the other side of town. The ill-placed cobblestones near the gate eventually smooth out into a walkable main street that runs the length of town.
As you reach the heart of Vallaki, the tightly packed hovels space themselves out and turn into respectable looking brick and wood homes, with pointed roofs and hanging eaves over the windows. There are several larger structures that look like they could belong to nobles or wealthy merchants. There are also a few buildings that resembles churches, though they seem to have been repurposed or abandoned, no symbols or trappings visible to confirm if they were once dedicated to a faith. Whereas the Village of Barovia had seemed unkempt and uncared for, most of the structures here show signs of upkeep. That is not to say all is fresh and beautiful here... far from it. This is all old construction, and the buildings tilt and bow with age and wear. But here in Vallaki, leaky roofs show signs of patching and some meager flowers struggle to grow from hanging planters in front yards. Whether this is because the people here have stronger spirit, or simply more means, it remains to be seen.
You spot the cathedral long before you reach it. It cuts a unique silhouette against the grey skies. As you draw closer, it comes into focus. This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. Despite its age, the building shows signs of great care. Cracked windows have been replaced or repaired, though with clear glass instead of colored. The front steps show signs of fresh masonry repair and the earth around them is disturbed where some arbor vitae have been newly planted. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves, but seems to hang back, as if in reverence of the church, not approaching within reach of the walls.
In the small cemetery, a brawny, dark haired teen or young man is sweeping up sticks, leaves and debris.
Up the steps and just inside the open doors of the church, stands a man in his late 20's or early 30's, with a shaved head and off-white robes with silver trim. Just behind him stands a boy, about Saskia's age, in similar robes but without the trim. Next to the man stands an older woman, stooped and leaning on a cane. She reaches out and grasps the sleeve of his robe.
"Please, Father. Won't you at least speak to him? You have the voice of the Morninglord! You are his kin, by marriage! He will listen, if you ask. Please!" she practically begs of him.
He places a hand on hers, removes it gently from his sleeve, then holds it in both of his hands. "I will pray on this, Willemina. The Morninglord will hear of your request...". He raises her hand up so that she looks him in the eye. "You should pray as well. Udo... he... should have known better. He has brought this trouble upon himself."
She breaks into tears. "I thank you for your prayers, Father... but my son needs action! Will you speak to the Baron? Will you, please?"
He looks at her for a long time, then, though it seems to pain him, he nods. With a sigh, he answers, "Yes. I will speak to him." He then looks up at your approach. He touches the side of the old woman's face. "Go home, Willemina. Get some rest. I will send Yeska with some supper for you later." He pats her on the shoulder, gently. "We will get through this."
As the old woman shuffles past you and down the road, the robed man straightens his vestments and turns to face you. He looks at each one of you in turn, his eyes lingering on your weapons... then he steps back and to the side, gesturing toward the interior of the church. "Come in, strangers. All are welcome under Saint Andral's roof, in the light of the Morninglord."
Outside, the young man in the cemetery has ceased his work and is leaning on his rake, watching you.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Soren inclines his head deeply to Father Lucian. Not merely a pack-leader this. A wise one.
He wonders, but does not yet ask, what has befallen this Udo on whose behalf the elderly woman, Willemina was beseeching the priest's help. Angered the Baron Vallakovich of whom no one is allowed to speak ill (and related to Lucian)? Soren strives to keep his face calm. All should live free.
"Father. Thank you for your welcome to the Morninglord's dedicated territory. I am Soren Thornpaw and my packmates can introduce themselves. Several of us came here from far away. Through the mists. Yet it seems as if the mists do not intrude near the cathedral. Is it the Morninglord's doing?"
He looks at the boy behind Father Lucian and then back at Saskia, murmuring to Ireena and the others, "it would be good for the cubs to have other cubs with whom to play. Even if the boy is busy serving the holy man of the Morninglord."
Zefla also listens to the exchange, wondering what sort of trouble Udo has gotten himself into and whether or not a kid his age should know better. She watches as they retreat, making note of which direction they head.
She sees the young man outside, stopping his work to watch them and she gives him a big ol wave and grin.
She finds her way up to the priest, gives him a little nod and says, "Zefla Shadowquick is my name. Quite the beautiful building you have here."
Father Giles walks into the church, nodding and smiling, holding his hands grouped together as a temple in front of him, (not see all the people, but with the steeple arched with his index fingers). He says to Father Lucian, “Dear sir, my name is Father Giles, thank you for your kindness and your welcome. These are strange times and we are glad for any hospitality that we may receive. We have travelled here from the village of Barovia with good lady Ireena here, the daughter of the Burgomaster. Her brother Ismark bid us get her to safety, behind the walls of Vallaki, to keep her away from the one who rules in that high castle in this land, whose name shall go unspoken. We would ask you for her to remain here, within your protection, to keep her safe for the time being. Is that possible? We noted the mist doesn’t approach the walls of your church, we were hoping that your church is sanctified ….” Giles looks at him with hope.
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
The teen with the rake startles when Zeflawaves at him, realizing he's been caught staring. He hurriedly and pointedly goes back to work raking leaves.
Father Lucian listens to your introductions. He looks to Ireena. "Is that true, m'lady? I have heard... things... about the state of your village. Have you angered The Devil in some way, to necessitate your flight?"
Ireena shifts uncomfortably in her armor. "It is... complicated, Father. But they speak true enough. I have come to Vallaki seeking refuge, and these far travelers have escorted me safely." Changing the subject, the raises the little girl's hand. "Along the way we became the protectors of this little one. She also needs a new home, and I had hoped you might be able to tell me if the orphanage in town would be a good place to start?"
The priest eyes Ireena for a moment before answering. Then he looks down at Saskia. "Greetings, child. I think that St. Penelope's would make a good home. What do you think, Yeska?" he asks of the young boy at his side.
"I like it," he says politely. "The sheets are scratchy but they keep the bedrooms warm and there is plenty to eat."
"Good, good," says the priest. "Yeska, why don't you tell our new friend more while you give her a tour of the church? I need to speak with our other guests." The little boy nods and extends a hand to Saskia, who accepts, and then leads her around the interior of the cathedral. From what you overhear, most of his tour consists of pointing out where and how he performs different chores.
As the children depart, Father Lucian looks back at Ireena. His demeanor turns serious. "M'lady, I must insist on some particular answers. Would you step into the vestry? We can speak in private." He acknowledges the four of you. "By the Morninglord, know my intentions are pure. She will come to no harm here." Ireena looks uncomfortable in the extreme, but consents and the two step into a small room off the main worship floor.
They are gone for three minutes and then return through the same door. When they return, Father Lucian is contemplative. His eyes look to the images of saints in the cathedral windows and then to his altar. He looks concerned, though not frightened. Ireena, for her part, seems almost relieved, as though a weight has been lifted.
At last Father Lucian addresses all of you, Ireena included. "I believe you made the right decision, coming here. To St. Andral's. It would be best if Ireena remain here, with us, in the church. We can make accommodations. It will not be the Blue Water Inn, but we will see that you are comfortable."
"It would also be best if her presence here is not advertised. I understand the city guard already know she is here, seeking refuge from The Devil. That is unfortunate but I hope it will not amount to anything. But I would ask you not mention her again to anyone in town, or why she is here."
He looks at the four of you with sympathy. "As for you, I can offer little but my prayers. I have heard of travelers such as yourselves... drawn here by the mists from strange and alien lands. You will be tested, surely, by Barovia and its master. I am no warrior and my duties are here, to the townfolk of Vallaki. I cannot aid you directly, other than to offer sanctuary within these walls, if you seek it." He rests a hand on the altar. "I suspect the safety of the town of Vallaki is a happy lie the townfolk tell themselves. But rest assured, no evil, no matter how powerful, can penetrate this cathedral. Ireena will be safe here."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Ever a believer in free will of all creatures, Soren looks to Ireena to gauge whether the noblewoman seems agreeable or reluctant to stay at St. Andral's Cathedral. He would do the same for Saskia and St. Penelope's if the girl were not currently being given a tour by the boy, Yeska.
Noticing that the kindly Father Lucian had not exactly answeredwhy the cathedral is safe even if Vallaki might not be, nor why this mists seem to hang back from the graveyard and from the church itself, Soren tries a different tack.
"Father, pardon my ignorance. I know the ways of the forest, not those of the Morninglord, nor the big city. Who were St. Andral and St. Penelope?"
He pauses, remembering that it is unwise to sleep outdoors at night in Barovia. "You have been kind, offering your protection to Ireena and Saskia. Is there any service we can offer you? As for us, you spoke of the Blue Water Inn. Is that where we should stay if not sheltering here at the cathedral?"
Soren turns to the others. "That is if we are staying here for a night. Is there anywhere else in this city we should visit? If it is the Vistani camp to the southwest, perhaps it should be our last stop since the entire pack here seems very hostile towards them. Perhaps with good reason, perhaps not."
He thinks of Madame Eva's words. "Look for a den of wolves in the hills overlooking a mountain lake." Remembering the wolves' heads at the gate, he too shares Zefla's question as to whether the mountain lake might be Lake Zarovich, just north of Vallaki on the map, or the smaller lake in the Forest of Wolves. He wants to ask about that, and about who Mother Night is and.... all the rest. But he senses that he has already asked too much and subsides.
Giles stands there listening to the priest and watches his hand rest on the altar, listening to his advice about their situation. He closes his eyes briefly and tries to sense anything in the church, the veracity and intonation of Father Lucian’s words, listening for any deception. He nods his head and holds his hands together, an outward smile on his face. He looks around to the others present in the church, taking the scene in.
Insight : 11
Replying to Soren, he says “I think we should have a look at the Blue Water Inn. I feel much better with Ireena and Saskia here, under the protection of Father Lucian. But we have other work to do.”
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Figuring their job was more than finished, not only safely getting Ireena to the town, but to actual accommodations, Zefla could care less how the woman feels about it and actually looks just fine.
Zefla gives a little bow to the priest, "Thank you for your offer of sanctuary, hopefully we won't need it, but it is good to know it is there."
She turns to her friends, "Yes, I think we want to avoid traveling at night, so bunk up tonight and then head out in the morning? At least then we can avoid any of their festivals." she shudders. "Blue Water Inn it is!"
Father Lucian seems too young for this role. Back in the Sword Coast, a church of this size, the dominant church in a reasonably sized settlement, would be administered by seasoned clergy. Someone of Lucian's age and experience would be a deacon, if that. Possibly just an acolyte in training.
Yet despite his youth, he seems competent and confident in his role.
You sense no outright deception from him, though you suspect he is more nervous than he is letting on. His eyes continually glance to his altar and to the many windows showing pictures of saints, as though he is reaching out for reassurance.
"There is nothing to pardon," says the priest to Soren. "You are strangers here and our faith is no doubt unfamiliar to you."
"St. Andral is an ancient hero of Barovia. He kept alive the faith of the Morninglord during the dark ages when this land first fell under its curse, and its people's trust in the divine faltered. This cathedral was already dedicated to him prior to the reformations that led to the rise of our modern church." He points, directing your eyes to the window behind the altar. The bottom half is missing and replaced with clear glass, while the top half depicts a blond, long-haired man in a gold breastplate, pointing upwards at a radiating sun.
"St. Penelope," he continues, "is not formally recognized by our faith. Rather, she is woman revered and canonized by the locals of Vallaki. She was the last of a noble line. Her family, in addition to a manor and holdings outside of town, also controlled an art college. She saw duty in her privilege, and devoted her life to helping the poor and less fortunate. Things being what they are here, the art college had long been shuttered. She had the building converted into the orphanage and took in many who had no where else to turn. Later in life, Penelope was stricken with a disease that weakened her and robbed her of her sight. Still, she continued to work at the orphanage until her last days." He concludes, "A more noble soul, perhaps this land has never seen."
He points to another of the stained-glass windows, this one showing a child, shielded behind the knee of a tall, golden figure. Demonic figures lurk about the periphery of the window. "This window shows St. Martyn the Mad, the founder of the modern church of the Morninglord. Like you, Martyn was drawn here through the mists, though it happened to his family when he was very young. As a child, he was saved from vampires by the Morninglord Himself, who appeared as a man made of solid, radiant gold. He devoted his life to spreading word of this miracle and restoring hope to the people. Though branded a heretic in his time, later generations came to admire and spread his teachings."
Walking along behind the altar, he points to another, smaller window. "Another of the saints... St. Markovia." This window is also broken, with only the lower half of a robed woman visible. "A devout monk, St. Markovia maintained an abbey in the west end of the valley, near the town of Krezk. Already well known for her wisdom and virtue, she became a legend when she marched, alone, up to Castle Ravenloft and demanded an accounting from the darklord for all the evils that plague this land and its people. She did not return... but she remains well loved by the faithful who remember her still, and the old abbey now is named in her honor."
Turning away from the history lesson, he addresses your questions about the Blue Water Inn. "It is the closest thing to a proper hotel here in Vallaki. Urwin Martikov runs the establishment. He can be grimly pragmatic, but he is a good man, and honest. It would be my recommendation you seek lodging there, if you plan to stay the night." He gestures to the pews of his church. "I would offer you to sleep here, but we keep nightly vigils to wait for the dawn. Most nights there are a dozen or more parishioners here to join me in prayer. I fear it may be less than restful for you. Ireena, at least, can stay in the vestry for now. There wouldn't be room for all of you."
As you prepare to depart, he nods to Gilesand Burr'sconcerns. "We manage the orphanage, now. You have my word that the child will be well cared for there, and that Ireena will come to no harm here within the walls of St. Andral's."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Soren tries to keep up with all of the holy history. So many saints and martyrs. How does he keep track?
"Father Lucian," he murmurs, "during our journey we witnessed the darklord's fearsome henchman and his carriage, pulled by strange horses whose movements did not seem right. The Vistani tell of a battle between the darklord and a powerful wizard in which the mage was cast down. So is it these saints you describe who keep this holy place safe from such power? Or the Morninglord Himself? I hope you are right that this holy den is a sanctuary, even if Vallaki itself may not be safe from the grave threat posed by Castle Ravenloft, no matter how joyous the people claim the town is."
"If there is anything we..." he trails off, looking at Zefla, correcting himself. "If there is any service you would ask of me, consider me to be a willing pack mate. Speaking of which, the woman, Willemina? Asking about helping someone... Udo? She did not seem, ah... joyous."
(If Father Lucian offers nothing further, Soren bids goodbye to Ireena and Saskia before departing for the Blue Water inn).
Zefla looks at Ireena and a knowing smile plays on her lips, in a whisper that only her friends can hear, "St. Markovia? We know why she didn't return after visiting Sir Strahd, don't we? Virtue.. right.." she scoffs.
She perks up on mention of Willemina and Udo, curiosity getting the better of the halfling and waits to hear what the father has to say.
"The cathedral is Hallowed ground. Such power comes from the Morninglord," is all Father Lucian will say on the matter.
"I appreciate your offer. You have already done much by bringing Ireena and Saskia to safety. If there is anything I would ask, it is for you to keep on the lookout for powdered silver. I don't expect you to come across any, but who can say what miracles may occur? We have been without holy water for years and I think it would really pick up the people's spirits if I could make some again."
"Udo?" he asks. "You heard that... yes." He sighs, as if remembering a bill he had forgot is past due. "Willemina's adult son, a man named Udo. He is... outspoken and has never given proper thought or care to his actions. He is a skilled carpenter, and his work for some of the nobles in town has offered him some small amount of protection over the years. But now he went too far. At the recent Festival of Wolves, or whatever it was called, he cried out that the town should 'turn Baron Vallakovich over to the wolves.' For his efforts, he took a beating from Izek's men and spent a day in the stocks. The guards took him away after that and no one has heard from him." He sits down in one of the pew's looking forlorn. "Willemina has convinced herself I can intervene on his behalf. Lydia, my older sister, is the baroness, you see. But..." he hesitates, considering his words. "... But my sister does not have that kind of influence over her husband. I expect my involvement is only likely to worsen the problem. Yet, now I have promised the mother I will do just that. Aye... what weak fools we mortals be?" He looks up at a bronze sun hanging over the altar as he says this, a sad, wry smile on his lips.
As you prepare to depart the Cathedral, Ireena approaches the four of you. "Thank you once again for your protection and your company. These last few days have been a nightmare for me, but I must remind myself it has been no less terrible for the four of you, torn away from your homes and deposited here. I think... I think things will be all right here, at least until I can get all this sorted out and decide what to do next."
"I will see that little Saskia gets settled in." She looks over at the child, who is getting an introductory course in proper censer handling from the boy Yeska.
Looking back at you, "I wish you good fortune in your quest to return home. If there is anything I can do to help, you know where you can find me." She adds, "I do have one last request of you, though you owe me nothing more. If your travels should ever take you back toward the Village of Barovia, please come and see me first. I will prepare a letter for Ismark and would ask you to deliver it for me."
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Giles senses the uncertainty, the hesitation from Father Lucian, and he walks over to the altar, seeing him glance at it frequently. “Is it really, Father? You can vouchsafe Ireena and Saskia? You… seem a little young for taking care of such a large flock. I just want to make sure you are up to the task and all is well. We would like to head to the Blue Water Inn, if we can….” He lingers over the altar, holding his coin in his hand, trying to sense the power at play, sense the sanctification present. He looks up at the Father Lucian as he says this, gauging his response.
Religion : 6
Insight with watching Father Lucian : 11
After this, he is ready to head with the others to the Blue Water Inn, giving a fond farewell to Ireena and Saskia, saying a prayer quickly to Tymora, asking for her to watch over them as well.
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Hearing Udo's story, Soren makes a mental note to be wary of this Izek. "Some pack leaders rule through fear and pain, as Baron Vallakovich does here demanding false joyousness and loyalty. Enforcers who keep the pack in line for such are the most brutal of all, such as this Izek, beating a man for words spoken. In some ways, these two, despite their avowed opposition, seem parallel to Strahd and Rahadin. Only writ small."
Focusing back on Father Lucian, he simply murmurs, somewhat awkwardly, "May the Morninglord bless you then, and this protected den. I hope it keeps you and yours, including Ireena, safe, and that the orphanage does the same for the little cub Saskia."
At Zefla's whisper, Soren looks puzzled, not getting it and taking her literally. He whispers back, "no, I do not know why St. Markovia did not return from Castle Ravenloft. I think the darklord or his henchman we saw this morning may have been involved? But they do not seem virtuous to me..."
He trails off, realizing that he is probably talking to himself. He coughs and gets ready to depart for the Blue Water Inn.
He agrees somewhat hopelessly to Father Lucian's request to look for powdered silver, realizing the he probably would not know it even if he saw it, and also to Ireena's request to deliver a letter if passing back through Vallaki, headed back to the town of Barovia.
Father Lucian doesn't take offense at Giles' questioning. Indeed, he seems to honestly reflect for a moment.
"Perhaps I am young. The trials ahead may call for a more seasoned, experienced soul." He rises and places another hand on the altar. "But where my own wisdom fails, I have the limitless knowledge, compassion, and gentle guidance of the Morninglord to lead me. I am the tool the Morninglord wields here in Vallaki, and for this reason alone I have faith that I am up to the task."
"I must be."
Father Giles:
Not all churches, temples or 'holy' places are hallowed ground. Some are little more than wood and stone, their protection extending only as far as the actions of the faithful who maintain them.
Then again, you have stood within temples empowered with actual divine protection through daily rituals performed by the clergy. You've likewise heard tales of druid groves where spirits of nature promote healing and protect against disease and malady.
This feels more like the latter. You saw how the creeping mist seemed unable to touch the outer walls. And standing inside you feel... not safe, exactly. But the lingering dread you have felt since the mists plucked you off of that farmstead and brought you here seems distant. It is as if, at last, you have put a closed door between you and the nightmare that haunts you.
But as to the mechanism behind this, whether the intervention of this Morninglord, the simple faith of the priest, or your own wishful delusions, you are not able to draw any clear conclusion.
As for Father Lucian, your little talk seems to have led him to some reassurance and his demeanor has relaxed slightly.
Departing the church, the four of you turn back toward the center of Vallaki, toward where the town map showed the Blue Water Inn could be found.
It is now later in the afternoon, and the chimneys of Vallaki are pumping out thin grey smoke to join the grey clouds overhead. The scent of root vegetables simmering over hearthfires is heavy in the chill air. And it seems to have become chillier. You don't recall having been cold as you walked through town earlier, but now you must suppress a shiver as the breeze threatens to bring a damp cold under your clothes and armor. There are a handful of souls out on the streets and you even pass a patrol of two guards; their quiet conversation stops as they pass you by... staring the whole way but not stopping or confronting you.
Eventually you come to an intersection of the main road through town and spot your destination. Thick grey smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. The birds cock their heads and peer at you side eyes, then mutter in caw's and coo's among themselves. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall. A wooden staircase hugs the outer wall of the inn and leads up, presumably to guest quarters. A short set of steps lead up to the heavy main door.
Pushing open the door, you step inside the Blue Water Inn. Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques. Indeed, as you eyes adjust, you are taken back by the sheer number of wolf mounts on the walls. Sixteen in all, chief among them a pair of large direwolves mounted on opposite walls, seemingly locked in an eternal staring contest, their glass eyes unblinking. Mounted on braces and tucked into alcoves behind the bar are three wine barrels. A brass spigot is hammered into each barrel.
Black Dot - Behind the bar stands a tall, thin woman. Her black hair is streaked with grey, making it difficult to pinpoint her age. She is dressed quite well for an inkeeper.
Grey Dots - At the bar sit a pair of hard-looking woodsmen. Two longbows lean against the wall near their seats and one of the men has a wolfskin cloak made from patches from dozens of different hides over his leather armor.
Purple Dots - Another four outdoorsman-looking fellows sit at a table near the stairs. They look neither as dirty nor as well equipped as the two at the bar.
Orange Dots - A few townfolk sit around the interior of the inn. They nurse glasses of wine or pick at bowls of soup, engaged in quiet conversation with one another.
All eyes in the tavern turn to the four of you when you enter, but no one says a word.
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PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Burr walks up to the bar and addresses the woman, " We'll be needing........two....rooms. With meals included for....three nights...how much would that be?"
He regarded the folks in the tavern carefully, nodding to the two woodsmen as he placed his maul quietly onto the timbers.
Zefla follows the boys up the stairs to the establishment, comparing it to the Lizzards Gizzard as she goes, way too dark is her first impression. Yes, you want an atmosphere in a bar, but this one was almost depressing due to it. She admires the balconies and the nice long bar. Though notes the lack of a hearth and the fact things are pretty squished together.
She nods at the folks as they stare at them, giving a few wry smiles as she follows Burr to the bar. As he makes his request though, she looks at him astonished, "Three nights?! Why in god's name would we stay here for three nights? I thought we were leaving in the morning?" She looks to the other two to make sure she wasn't mistaken and thinks back to the map, "Or are we planning on returning here each night? I know it isn't safe out there over night, is that the plan?"
She hops up on a barstool one away from one of the grey outdoorsman, and faces them, "So, what's good here to drink?"
When Zefla makes her comment about the Vistani being the 'best thing we've come across,' she earns a sharp look from the two guards, who have settled back into their post. One of them taps a sign, reading REMEMBER: ALL VISTANI SERVE THE DEVIL. Above those words is a less than tasteful caricature of a Vistani man, with beads in his hair and exaggerated, ugly features.
Ireena seems agreeable to continuing on with you a little longer. "The cathedral seems quite close to the orphanage." She looks down at Saskia and asks her, "What do you think? Would you like to see the church? I'll bet its the biggest building you've ever seen." The girl, already awestruck by the scale of Vallaki, merely nods in wonder.
It is 3/4 of a mile from the Morning Gate to St. Andral's Cathedral, which lies at the other side of town. The ill-placed cobblestones near the gate eventually smooth out into a walkable main street that runs the length of town.
As you reach the heart of Vallaki, the tightly packed hovels space themselves out and turn into respectable looking brick and wood homes, with pointed roofs and hanging eaves over the windows. There are several larger structures that look like they could belong to nobles or wealthy merchants. There are also a few buildings that resembles churches, though they seem to have been repurposed or abandoned, no symbols or trappings visible to confirm if they were once dedicated to a faith. Whereas the Village of Barovia had seemed unkempt and uncared for, most of the structures here show signs of upkeep. That is not to say all is fresh and beautiful here... far from it. This is all old construction, and the buildings tilt and bow with age and wear. But here in Vallaki, leaky roofs show signs of patching and some meager flowers struggle to grow from hanging planters in front yards. Whether this is because the people here have stronger spirit, or simply more means, it remains to be seen.
You spot the cathedral long before you reach it. It cuts a unique silhouette against the grey skies. As you draw closer, it comes into focus. This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. Despite its age, the building shows signs of great care. Cracked windows have been replaced or repaired, though with clear glass instead of colored. The front steps show signs of fresh masonry repair and the earth around them is disturbed where some arbor vitae have been newly planted. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves, but seems to hang back, as if in reverence of the church, not approaching within reach of the walls.
In the small cemetery, a brawny, dark haired teen or young man is sweeping up sticks, leaves and debris.
Up the steps and just inside the open doors of the church, stands a man in his late 20's or early 30's, with a shaved head and off-white robes with silver trim. Just behind him stands a boy, about Saskia's age, in similar robes but without the trim. Next to the man stands an older woman, stooped and leaning on a cane. She reaches out and grasps the sleeve of his robe.
"Please, Father. Won't you at least speak to him? You have the voice of the Morninglord! You are his kin, by marriage! He will listen, if you ask. Please!" she practically begs of him.
He places a hand on hers, removes it gently from his sleeve, then holds it in both of his hands. "I will pray on this, Willemina. The Morninglord will hear of your request...". He raises her hand up so that she looks him in the eye. "You should pray as well. Udo... he... should have known better. He has brought this trouble upon himself."
She breaks into tears. "I thank you for your prayers, Father... but my son needs action! Will you speak to the Baron? Will you, please?"
He looks at her for a long time, then, though it seems to pain him, he nods. With a sigh, he answers, "Yes. I will speak to him." He then looks up at your approach. He touches the side of the old woman's face. "Go home, Willemina. Get some rest. I will send Yeska with some supper for you later." He pats her on the shoulder, gently. "We will get through this."
As the old woman shuffles past you and down the road, the robed man straightens his vestments and turns to face you. He looks at each one of you in turn, his eyes lingering on your weapons... then he steps back and to the side, gesturing toward the interior of the church. "Come in, strangers. All are welcome under Saint Andral's roof, in the light of the Morninglord."
Outside, the young man in the cemetery has ceased his work and is leaning on his rake, watching you.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Soren inclines his head deeply to Father Lucian. Not merely a pack-leader this. A wise one.
He wonders, but does not yet ask, what has befallen this Udo on whose behalf the elderly woman, Willemina was beseeching the priest's help. Angered the Baron Vallakovich of whom no one is allowed to speak ill (and related to Lucian)? Soren strives to keep his face calm. All should live free.
"Father. Thank you for your welcome to the Morninglord's dedicated territory. I am Soren Thornpaw and my packmates can introduce themselves. Several of us came here from far away. Through the mists. Yet it seems as if the mists do not intrude near the cathedral. Is it the Morninglord's doing?"
He looks at the boy behind Father Lucian and then back at Saskia, murmuring to Ireena and the others, "it would be good for the cubs to have other cubs with whom to play. Even if the boy is busy serving the holy man of the Morninglord."
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Burr watches the interaction with interest, considering that things may not be as simple as they seem in a such a town.
" Burr, is my name. What a wonderfully joyous town you have here.", he said deadpan.
Zefla also listens to the exchange, wondering what sort of trouble Udo has gotten himself into and whether or not a kid his age should know better. She watches as they retreat, making note of which direction they head.
She sees the young man outside, stopping his work to watch them and she gives him a big ol wave and grin.
She finds her way up to the priest, gives him a little nod and says, "Zefla Shadowquick is my name. Quite the beautiful building you have here."
Father Giles walks into the church, nodding and smiling, holding his hands grouped together as a temple in front of him, (not see all the people, but with the steeple arched with his index fingers). He says to Father Lucian, “Dear sir, my name is Father Giles, thank you for your kindness and your welcome. These are strange times and we are glad for any hospitality that we may receive. We have travelled here from the village of Barovia with good lady Ireena here, the daughter of the Burgomaster. Her brother Ismark bid us get her to safety, behind the walls of Vallaki, to keep her away from the one who rules in that high castle in this land, whose name shall go unspoken. We would ask you for her to remain here, within your protection, to keep her safe for the time being. Is that possible? We noted the mist doesn’t approach the walls of your church, we were hoping that your church is sanctified ….” Giles looks at him with hope.
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
The teen with the rake startles when Zefla waves at him, realizing he's been caught staring. He hurriedly and pointedly goes back to work raking leaves.
Father Lucian listens to your introductions. He looks to Ireena. "Is that true, m'lady? I have heard... things... about the state of your village. Have you angered The Devil in some way, to necessitate your flight?"
Ireena shifts uncomfortably in her armor. "It is... complicated, Father. But they speak true enough. I have come to Vallaki seeking refuge, and these far travelers have escorted me safely." Changing the subject, the raises the little girl's hand. "Along the way we became the protectors of this little one. She also needs a new home, and I had hoped you might be able to tell me if the orphanage in town would be a good place to start?"
The priest eyes Ireena for a moment before answering. Then he looks down at Saskia. "Greetings, child. I think that St. Penelope's would make a good home. What do you think, Yeska?" he asks of the young boy at his side.
"I like it," he says politely. "The sheets are scratchy but they keep the bedrooms warm and there is plenty to eat."
"Good, good," says the priest. "Yeska, why don't you tell our new friend more while you give her a tour of the church? I need to speak with our other guests." The little boy nods and extends a hand to Saskia, who accepts, and then leads her around the interior of the cathedral. From what you overhear, most of his tour consists of pointing out where and how he performs different chores.
As the children depart, Father Lucian looks back at Ireena. His demeanor turns serious. "M'lady, I must insist on some particular answers. Would you step into the vestry? We can speak in private." He acknowledges the four of you. "By the Morninglord, know my intentions are pure. She will come to no harm here." Ireena looks uncomfortable in the extreme, but consents and the two step into a small room off the main worship floor.
They are gone for three minutes and then return through the same door. When they return, Father Lucian is contemplative. His eyes look to the images of saints in the cathedral windows and then to his altar. He looks concerned, though not frightened. Ireena, for her part, seems almost relieved, as though a weight has been lifted.
At last Father Lucian addresses all of you, Ireena included. "I believe you made the right decision, coming here. To St. Andral's. It would be best if Ireena remain here, with us, in the church. We can make accommodations. It will not be the Blue Water Inn, but we will see that you are comfortable."
"It would also be best if her presence here is not advertised. I understand the city guard already know she is here, seeking refuge from The Devil. That is unfortunate but I hope it will not amount to anything. But I would ask you not mention her again to anyone in town, or why she is here."
He looks at the four of you with sympathy. "As for you, I can offer little but my prayers. I have heard of travelers such as yourselves... drawn here by the mists from strange and alien lands. You will be tested, surely, by Barovia and its master. I am no warrior and my duties are here, to the townfolk of Vallaki. I cannot aid you directly, other than to offer sanctuary within these walls, if you seek it." He rests a hand on the altar. "I suspect the safety of the town of Vallaki is a happy lie the townfolk tell themselves. But rest assured, no evil, no matter how powerful, can penetrate this cathedral. Ireena will be safe here."
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Ever a believer in free will of all creatures, Soren looks to Ireena to gauge whether the noblewoman seems agreeable or reluctant to stay at St. Andral's Cathedral. He would do the same for Saskia and St. Penelope's if the girl were not currently being given a tour by the boy, Yeska.
Noticing that the kindly Father Lucian had not exactly answeredwhy the cathedral is safe even if Vallaki might not be, nor why this mists seem to hang back from the graveyard and from the church itself, Soren tries a different tack.
"Father, pardon my ignorance. I know the ways of the forest, not those of the Morninglord, nor the big city. Who were St. Andral and St. Penelope?"
He pauses, remembering that it is unwise to sleep outdoors at night in Barovia. "You have been kind, offering your protection to Ireena and Saskia. Is there any service we can offer you? As for us, you spoke of the Blue Water Inn. Is that where we should stay if not sheltering here at the cathedral?"
Soren turns to the others. "That is if we are staying here for a night. Is there anywhere else in this city we should visit? If it is the Vistani camp to the southwest, perhaps it should be our last stop since the entire pack here seems very hostile towards them. Perhaps with good reason, perhaps not."
He thinks of Madame Eva's words. "Look for a den of wolves in the hills overlooking a mountain lake." Remembering the wolves' heads at the gate, he too shares Zefla's question as to whether the mountain lake might be Lake Zarovich, just north of Vallaki on the map, or the smaller lake in the Forest of Wolves. He wants to ask about that, and about who Mother Night is and.... all the rest. But he senses that he has already asked too much and subsides.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Giles stands there listening to the priest and watches his hand rest on the altar, listening to his advice about their situation. He closes his eyes briefly and tries to sense anything in the church, the veracity and intonation of Father Lucian’s words, listening for any deception. He nods his head and holds his hands together, an outward smile on his face. He looks around to the others present in the church, taking the scene in.
Insight : 11
Replying to Soren, he says “I think we should have a look at the Blue Water Inn. I feel much better with Ireena and Saskia here, under the protection of Father Lucian. But we have other work to do.”
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Figuring their job was more than finished, not only safely getting Ireena to the town, but to actual accommodations, Zefla could care less how the woman feels about it and actually looks just fine.
Zefla gives a little bow to the priest, "Thank you for your offer of sanctuary, hopefully we won't need it, but it is good to know it is there."
She turns to her friends, "Yes, I think we want to avoid traveling at night, so bunk up tonight and then head out in the morning? At least then we can avoid any of their festivals." she shudders. "Blue Water Inn it is!"
" The Blue Water Inn then."
He fixed the priest with a look, " I will be calling in to check on both young women when we pass through town, I'd best find them well."
" How many rooms are we wanting at the inn?"
Giles:
Father Lucian seems too young for this role. Back in the Sword Coast, a church of this size, the dominant church in a reasonably sized settlement, would be administered by seasoned clergy. Someone of Lucian's age and experience would be a deacon, if that. Possibly just an acolyte in training.
Yet despite his youth, he seems competent and confident in his role.
You sense no outright deception from him, though you suspect he is more nervous than he is letting on. His eyes continually glance to his altar and to the many windows showing pictures of saints, as though he is reaching out for reassurance.
"There is nothing to pardon," says the priest to Soren. "You are strangers here and our faith is no doubt unfamiliar to you."
"St. Andral is an ancient hero of Barovia. He kept alive the faith of the Morninglord during the dark ages when this land first fell under its curse, and its people's trust in the divine faltered. This cathedral was already dedicated to him prior to the reformations that led to the rise of our modern church." He points, directing your eyes to the window behind the altar. The bottom half is missing and replaced with clear glass, while the top half depicts a blond, long-haired man in a gold breastplate, pointing upwards at a radiating sun.
"St. Penelope," he continues, "is not formally recognized by our faith. Rather, she is woman revered and canonized by the locals of Vallaki. She was the last of a noble line. Her family, in addition to a manor and holdings outside of town, also controlled an art college. She saw duty in her privilege, and devoted her life to helping the poor and less fortunate. Things being what they are here, the art college had long been shuttered. She had the building converted into the orphanage and took in many who had no where else to turn. Later in life, Penelope was stricken with a disease that weakened her and robbed her of her sight. Still, she continued to work at the orphanage until her last days." He concludes, "A more noble soul, perhaps this land has never seen."
He points to another of the stained-glass windows, this one showing a child, shielded behind the knee of a tall, golden figure. Demonic figures lurk about the periphery of the window. "This window shows St. Martyn the Mad, the founder of the modern church of the Morninglord. Like you, Martyn was drawn here through the mists, though it happened to his family when he was very young. As a child, he was saved from vampires by the Morninglord Himself, who appeared as a man made of solid, radiant gold. He devoted his life to spreading word of this miracle and restoring hope to the people. Though branded a heretic in his time, later generations came to admire and spread his teachings."
Walking along behind the altar, he points to another, smaller window. "Another of the saints... St. Markovia." This window is also broken, with only the lower half of a robed woman visible. "A devout monk, St. Markovia maintained an abbey in the west end of the valley, near the town of Krezk. Already well known for her wisdom and virtue, she became a legend when she marched, alone, up to Castle Ravenloft and demanded an accounting from the darklord for all the evils that plague this land and its people. She did not return... but she remains well loved by the faithful who remember her still, and the old abbey now is named in her honor."
Turning away from the history lesson, he addresses your questions about the Blue Water Inn. "It is the closest thing to a proper hotel here in Vallaki. Urwin Martikov runs the establishment. He can be grimly pragmatic, but he is a good man, and honest. It would be my recommendation you seek lodging there, if you plan to stay the night." He gestures to the pews of his church. "I would offer you to sleep here, but we keep nightly vigils to wait for the dawn. Most nights there are a dozen or more parishioners here to join me in prayer. I fear it may be less than restful for you. Ireena, at least, can stay in the vestry for now. There wouldn't be room for all of you."
As you prepare to depart, he nods to Giles and Burr's concerns. "We manage the orphanage, now. You have my word that the child will be well cared for there, and that Ireena will come to no harm here within the walls of St. Andral's."
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Soren tries to keep up with all of the holy history. So many saints and martyrs. How does he keep track?
"Father Lucian," he murmurs, "during our journey we witnessed the darklord's fearsome henchman and his carriage, pulled by strange horses whose movements did not seem right. The Vistani tell of a battle between the darklord and a powerful wizard in which the mage was cast down. So is it these saints you describe who keep this holy place safe from such power? Or the Morninglord Himself? I hope you are right that this holy den is a sanctuary, even if Vallaki itself may not be safe from the grave threat posed by Castle Ravenloft, no matter how joyous the people claim the town is."
"If there is anything we..." he trails off, looking at Zefla, correcting himself. "If there is any service you would ask of me, consider me to be a willing pack mate. Speaking of which, the woman, Willemina? Asking about helping someone... Udo? She did not seem, ah... joyous."
(If Father Lucian offers nothing further, Soren bids goodbye to Ireena and Saskia before departing for the Blue Water inn).
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Zefla looks at Ireena and a knowing smile plays on her lips, in a whisper that only her friends can hear, "St. Markovia? We know why she didn't return after visiting Sir Strahd, don't we? Virtue.. right.." she scoffs.
She perks up on mention of Willemina and Udo, curiosity getting the better of the halfling and waits to hear what the father has to say.
"The cathedral is Hallowed ground. Such power comes from the Morninglord," is all Father Lucian will say on the matter.
"I appreciate your offer. You have already done much by bringing Ireena and Saskia to safety. If there is anything I would ask, it is for you to keep on the lookout for powdered silver. I don't expect you to come across any, but who can say what miracles may occur? We have been without holy water for years and I think it would really pick up the people's spirits if I could make some again."
"Udo?" he asks. "You heard that... yes." He sighs, as if remembering a bill he had forgot is past due. "Willemina's adult son, a man named Udo. He is... outspoken and has never given proper thought or care to his actions. He is a skilled carpenter, and his work for some of the nobles in town has offered him some small amount of protection over the years. But now he went too far. At the recent Festival of Wolves, or whatever it was called, he cried out that the town should 'turn Baron Vallakovich over to the wolves.' For his efforts, he took a beating from Izek's men and spent a day in the stocks. The guards took him away after that and no one has heard from him." He sits down in one of the pew's looking forlorn. "Willemina has convinced herself I can intervene on his behalf. Lydia, my older sister, is the baroness, you see. But..." he hesitates, considering his words. "... But my sister does not have that kind of influence over her husband. I expect my involvement is only likely to worsen the problem. Yet, now I have promised the mother I will do just that. Aye... what weak fools we mortals be?" He looks up at a bronze sun hanging over the altar as he says this, a sad, wry smile on his lips.
As you prepare to depart the Cathedral, Ireena approaches the four of you. "Thank you once again for your protection and your company. These last few days have been a nightmare for me, but I must remind myself it has been no less terrible for the four of you, torn away from your homes and deposited here. I think... I think things will be all right here, at least until I can get all this sorted out and decide what to do next."
"I will see that little Saskia gets settled in." She looks over at the child, who is getting an introductory course in proper censer handling from the boy Yeska.
Looking back at you, "I wish you good fortune in your quest to return home. If there is anything I can do to help, you know where you can find me." She adds, "I do have one last request of you, though you owe me nothing more. If your travels should ever take you back toward the Village of Barovia, please come and see me first. I will prepare a letter for Ismark and would ask you to deliver it for me."
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Giles senses the uncertainty, the hesitation from Father Lucian, and he walks over to the altar, seeing him glance at it frequently. “Is it really, Father? You can vouchsafe Ireena and Saskia? You… seem a little young for taking care of such a large flock. I just want to make sure you are up to the task and all is well. We would like to head to the Blue Water Inn, if we can….” He lingers over the altar, holding his coin in his hand, trying to sense the power at play, sense the sanctification present. He looks up at the Father Lucian as he says this, gauging his response.
Religion : 6
Insight with watching Father Lucian : 11
After this, he is ready to head with the others to the Blue Water Inn, giving a fond farewell to Ireena and Saskia, saying a prayer quickly to Tymora, asking for her to watch over them as well.
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Hearing Udo's story, Soren makes a mental note to be wary of this Izek. "Some pack leaders rule through fear and pain, as Baron Vallakovich does here demanding false joyousness and loyalty. Enforcers who keep the pack in line for such are the most brutal of all, such as this Izek, beating a man for words spoken. In some ways, these two, despite their avowed opposition, seem parallel to Strahd and Rahadin. Only writ small."
Focusing back on Father Lucian, he simply murmurs, somewhat awkwardly, "May the Morninglord bless you then, and this protected den. I hope it keeps you and yours, including Ireena, safe, and that the orphanage does the same for the little cub Saskia."
At Zefla's whisper, Soren looks puzzled, not getting it and taking her literally. He whispers back, "no, I do not know why St. Markovia did not return from Castle Ravenloft. I think the darklord or his henchman we saw this morning may have been involved? But they do not seem virtuous to me..."
He trails off, realizing that he is probably talking to himself. He coughs and gets ready to depart for the Blue Water Inn.
He agrees somewhat hopelessly to Father Lucian's request to look for powdered silver, realizing the he probably would not know it even if he saw it, and also to Ireena's request to deliver a letter if passing back through Vallaki, headed back to the town of Barovia.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Father Lucian doesn't take offense at Giles' questioning. Indeed, he seems to honestly reflect for a moment.
"Perhaps I am young. The trials ahead may call for a more seasoned, experienced soul." He rises and places another hand on the altar. "But where my own wisdom fails, I have the limitless knowledge, compassion, and gentle guidance of the Morninglord to lead me. I am the tool the Morninglord wields here in Vallaki, and for this reason alone I have faith that I am up to the task."
"I must be."
Father Giles:
Not all churches, temples or 'holy' places are hallowed ground. Some are little more than wood and stone, their protection extending only as far as the actions of the faithful who maintain them.
Then again, you have stood within temples empowered with actual divine protection through daily rituals performed by the clergy. You've likewise heard tales of druid groves where spirits of nature promote healing and protect against disease and malady.
This feels more like the latter. You saw how the creeping mist seemed unable to touch the outer walls. And standing inside you feel... not safe, exactly. But the lingering dread you have felt since the mists plucked you off of that farmstead and brought you here seems distant. It is as if, at last, you have put a closed door between you and the nightmare that haunts you.
But as to the mechanism behind this, whether the intervention of this Morninglord, the simple faith of the priest, or your own wishful delusions, you are not able to draw any clear conclusion.
As for Father Lucian, your little talk seems to have led him to some reassurance and his demeanor has relaxed slightly.
Departing the church, the four of you turn back toward the center of Vallaki, toward where the town map showed the Blue Water Inn could be found.
It is now later in the afternoon, and the chimneys of Vallaki are pumping out thin grey smoke to join the grey clouds overhead. The scent of root vegetables simmering over hearthfires is heavy in the chill air. And it seems to have become chillier. You don't recall having been cold as you walked through town earlier, but now you must suppress a shiver as the breeze threatens to bring a damp cold under your clothes and armor. There are a handful of souls out on the streets and you even pass a patrol of two guards; their quiet conversation stops as they pass you by... staring the whole way but not stopping or confronting you.
Eventually you come to an intersection of the main road through town and spot your destination. Thick grey smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. The birds cock their heads and peer at you side eyes, then mutter in caw's and coo's among themselves. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall. A wooden staircase hugs the outer wall of the inn and leads up, presumably to guest quarters. A short set of steps lead up to the heavy main door.
Pushing open the door, you step inside the Blue Water Inn. Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques. Indeed, as you eyes adjust, you are taken back by the sheer number of wolf mounts on the walls. Sixteen in all, chief among them a pair of large direwolves mounted on opposite walls, seemingly locked in an eternal staring contest, their glass eyes unblinking. Mounted on braces and tucked into alcoves behind the bar are three wine barrels. A brass spigot is hammered into each barrel.
Black Dot - Behind the bar stands a tall, thin woman. Her black hair is streaked with grey, making it difficult to pinpoint her age. She is dressed quite well for an inkeeper.
Grey Dots - At the bar sit a pair of hard-looking woodsmen. Two longbows lean against the wall near their seats and one of the men has a wolfskin cloak made from patches from dozens of different hides over his leather armor.
Purple Dots - Another four outdoorsman-looking fellows sit at a table near the stairs. They look neither as dirty nor as well equipped as the two at the bar.
Orange Dots - A few townfolk sit around the interior of the inn. They nurse glasses of wine or pick at bowls of soup, engaged in quiet conversation with one another.
All eyes in the tavern turn to the four of you when you enter, but no one says a word.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Burr walks up to the bar and addresses the woman, " We'll be needing........two....rooms. With meals included for....three nights...how much would that be?"
He regarded the folks in the tavern carefully, nodding to the two woodsmen as he placed his maul quietly onto the timbers.
Zefla follows the boys up the stairs to the establishment, comparing it to the Lizzards Gizzard as she goes, way too dark is her first impression. Yes, you want an atmosphere in a bar, but this one was almost depressing due to it. She admires the balconies and the nice long bar. Though notes the lack of a hearth and the fact things are pretty squished together.
She nods at the folks as they stare at them, giving a few wry smiles as she follows Burr to the bar. As he makes his request though, she looks at him astonished, "Three nights?! Why in god's name would we stay here for three nights? I thought we were leaving in the morning?" She looks to the other two to make sure she wasn't mistaken and thinks back to the map, "Or are we planning on returning here each night? I know it isn't safe out there over night, is that the plan?"
She hops up on a barstool one away from one of the grey outdoorsman, and faces them, "So, what's good here to drink?"
" Just in case, Yes.""