At Ireena's last comment, Rodan smiles roguishly. "You've a critical ear, Ms. Ireena. Some stories 're just feeling and memory, bent to communicate a theme or idea or pass along a bit o' wisdom."
"Other tales bend the list'ner to ask questions."
He then looks to Ismark, the smile fading. "Which reminds me of a question o' me own. T'was it exactly that let your family snag the title of burgomaster in the land right under the shadow of this darklord's castle? Did your kin enforce his rules? Collect his taxes? Keep his subjects in check? Or did the vampire-conqueror just let your family carry on leadin' the village out of the kindness of his blackened heart?"
Ismark ponders this for a while, as he is walking along. Finally, he responds with a long rambling train of thought, as this is clearly something that has preyed on his mind before.
"I have often wondered the same thing myself. My father was always opposed to Strahd and tried to make the life of the people better. This at least gave them some hope, but in truth, he never achieved anything. Some of the old men in the village say that all hope is false hope in Barovia. Personally, I think they're just grumpy old cynics. But sometimes I think: what if they are right?
I once read an ancient book on War and Strategy, by a General Tacticus. One of the things he wrote stuck in my mind. It's that one of the best ways to win a battle or even a war is to make the other side believe they have already lost - then you need never fight it and can just move ahead as if you had won. I debated this with my father many times in the past. Does this apply to Strahd? Does he want to think us defeated? Or could he be more devious that this and, unlike General Tacticus who was known as a good man, could he actually aim for the exact opposite? Perhaps he wants us to have hope so that we charge at his gates like Doru and the others did. Perhaps he relishes the conflict.
But truly, who knows. By all accounts Strahd is as ancient as the land and has lived many lifetimes. Who knows what someone as ancient and evil as that may plan.
Or perhaps he doesn't plan anything and doesn't think about us any more than a farmer would consider the worms in the soil.
"Aye it does appear to be the camp we seeked. But if memory serves, the deal was to company you folks to your destination while we looked for this place along the way. We wouldn't be good company to leave you to half way to suit our own wants. In my mind our services have been bought and paid for." He holds up the holy water and gives it a little shake. "Unless you are ready to be rid of us that is. I for one plan to see our end of the bargain fulfilled."
Ireena says "Indeed we are hoping that you will stay with us. The sun is setting, and I think it best that we don't travel at night. The Vistani are usually happy to share their fire with others, so we should ask to spend the night here. This is only a minor detour on the way to Valliki, and may even throw others off our scent if they think we would follow the main road.
If your business is concluded tomorrow, or say the day after at the latest, I am sure Ismark and I can wait for you to finish and to continue the journey with us as you had promised. It will certainly be safer to travel in company."
"Of course we will all escort you all the way to Vallaki..."The blonde elven maiden interjects with a small frown. "...but we might stop and trade news before continuing our journey. Besides, this place might even be as good a place to rest as any."She adds with a warm smile.
Ireena "Excellent. Then it is settled. Let us make camp here with the Vistani tonight, and then continue on our journey once your business is concluded."
Janek travels along in silence until the finally start to approach the Vistani camp. "We should be cautious in our approach. But it seems there's nothing for it but to approach them directly. Let's just hope they might information about how to leave this place."
The blonde elven maiden smiles and nods at Ireena, then starting to head down to the Vistani camp, hoping to make new friends and share in their music.
Rodan blinks at Ismark's response. He seems... disarmed. Whatever he had been expecting, it clearly wasn't these thoughtful and earnest words. He merely nods and falls back to the rear of the pack again, seemingly pondering the young man's answer. He follows the others into the camp.
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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
You approach the centre of the camp where a large campfire is lit. Around the fire, there are twelve Vistani standing and sitting around, telling stories and guzzling wine. They are seems somewhat intoxicated, and appear quite cheerful and friendly.
As you enter, Ismark makes the introduction and the Vistani offer you a place around their fire. They share some food and drink (nothing fancy, quite basic but tasty fare; and cheap but strong liquor).
One of the older Vistani sitting by the fire looks at you, and say "Ah, newcomers. You look like outsiders. In fact, you remind me of others who have come before. I see some of you have signs of being magic-users. That reminds me of a grand story" The man strikes you as the sort to use any excuse to tell a tale, possibly a tall one, and your suspicious are confirmed almost immediately, when he launches into a story he has clearly told many times before. With much some overacting, he tells the following story: "A mighty wizard came to this land over a year ago. I remember him like it was yesterday. He stood exactly where you're standing. A very charismatic man, he was. He looked grand and impressive, and perhaps he even wove some spells to further increase his charisma and influence. He had heard of this land, and he thought he could rally the people of Barovia against the 'devil' Strahd to cleanse the land. He stirred the people with thoughts of revolt and bore them to the castle en masse. When the vampire appeared, the wizard's peasant army fled in terror. A few stood their ground and were never seen again.
The wizard and the vampire cast spells at each other. Such spells, and such destruction and spectacle as few will ever see. Their battle raged from the courtyards of Ravenloft to a precipice overlooking the falls. On and on their fought, fighting ever fiercer. I saw the battle with my own eyes. Most who saw it fled in terror, but I am made of stronger stuff and stayed nearby to watch. Thunder shook the mountainside, and great rocks tumbled down upon the wizard, yet by his magic he survived. Lightning from the heavens struck the wizard, and again he stood his ground. But in the end, Strahd fell upon him in close melee, and the wizard's magic couldn't save him. I saw him thrown a thousand feet to his death. Later, I climbed down to the river to search for the wizard's body, to see if he had anything of value, but the River Ivlis had already spirited him away."
The other Vistani carry on drinking and chatting while he tells the story. They clearly have heard it before and you get the impression that they think the tale might be slightly embellished.
Some of the other Vistani urge you to see their leader, Madame Eva, in the large tent. They say she has the gift of foresight and prophecy, and that you would be wise to seek out her council.
Celeste would find herself a seat by the fire, gratefully accepting the food and even liquor the vistani share. She listens attentively to the story the older vistani tells, recalling the wizard in black the priest had spoken of. She would then share in pleasant conversation, praising the vistani music, food and drink, asking the vistani about their travels and finally asking if they were able to travel through the mysterious fog.
Persuasion: 5 Insight: 11
Later she would indeed visit Madame Eve in the large tent to have her fate revelaed.
Thulewyn intently listens to the story of the wizard, knowing full well that the story's telling of events were probably over dramatic, but he believed the underlying story to be true. We have got to find that mage. Enjoying the food and drink, he passes on seeing this Madame Eve "Me fate be me own, and I plan to discover it the old fashion way." After the story teller seems to break from the crowd, Thulewyn will try to get more info about the wizard from him. "Where exactly did the brave soul fall? What did you say he called himself?"
Janek had settled into a spot and listened quietly to the tale shared by the older Vistani. He says little other than to thank any of this group for the hospitality. When Thulewyn mentions not visiting Madame Eve, he comments. "Perhaps we should all take heed and go together to hear what council this woman would offer. I'm not one to place much faith in fortune, but it is good to listen to the wise."
Celeste would find herself a seat by the fire, gratefully accepting the food and even liquor the vistani share. She listens attentively to the story the older vistani tells, recalling the wizard in black the priest had spoken of. She would then share in pleasant conversation, praising the vistani music, food and drink, asking the vistani about their travels and finally asking if they were able to travel through the mysterious fog.
Persuasion: 5 Insight: 11
One of the Vistani tells you "Ah yes, the fog. The locals are stymied by it, but we have found a solution a long time ago that allows us to travel through the fog. We have a magical potion. It's a closely guarded secret, and the ingredients are expensive, but we would be willing to sell you a few bottles for the right price." He looks you up and down, trying to estimate your wealth.
Thulewyn intently listens to the story of the wizard, knowing full well that the story's telling of events were probably over dramatic, but he believed the underlying story to be true. We have got to find that mage. Enjoying the food and drink, he passes on seeing this Madame Eve "Me fate be me own, and I plan to discover it the old fashion way." After the story teller seems to break from the crowd, Thulewyn will try to get more info about the wizard from him. "Where exactly did the brave soul fall? What did you say he called himself?"
"I never caught his name. Too clever to get caught up too close in these things myself. I just watched from the distance.
He fell by the Tser falls, not far West from here. But there is nothing left there. Believe me. If there had been, you would see me wearing much finer clothes than these rags!"
Janek had settled into a spot and listened quietly to the tale shared by the older Vistani. He says little other than to thank any of this group for the hospitality. When Thulewyn mentions not visiting Madame Eve, he comments. "Perhaps we should all take heed and go together to hear what council this woman would offer. I'm not one to place much faith in fortune, but it is good to listen to the wise."
You are Les to Madame Eva's tent and introduced. The Vistani wisewoman looks at you solemnly and does not seem the slightest bit surprised to see you. She is wrinkled and old, yet somehow loos lively at the same time.
She then proceeds to read your fortune for you:
"I will read your fortune, but be aware that the answers may not be always be immediately clear, or may not be what you wish to hear. But I hope that it will help you in your endeavours."
She takes a deep breath, whispers an incantation in her native tongue, and seems to falls into a trace of sorts. While still in this trance, she begins to draw out the cards in a pattern and speaks in soft hushed tones:
"The first card card tells of history. Knowledge of the ancient will help you better understand your enemy.
The card is the One of Stars, the Transmuter: Go to a place of dizzying heights, where the stone itself is alive!
The second card tells of a powerful force for good and protection, a holy symbol of great hope.
It is the Two of Coins, the Philanthropist: Look to a place where sickness and madness are bred. Where children once cried, the treasure lies still.
The third is a card of power and strength. It tells of a weapon of vengeance: a sword of sunlight.
It is the Nine of Coins, the Miser: Look for a fortress inside a fortress, in a place hidden behind fire.
The fourth card sheds light on one who will help you greatly in the battle against darkness.
It is the Horseman: I see a dead man of noble birth, guarded by his widow. Return life to the dead man's corpse, and he will be your staunch ally.
The final card concerns your enemy. He is a creature of darkness, whose powers are beyond mortality. This last card will lead you to him!
It is the Mists: The cards cannot see where the evil lurks. The mists obscure all!"
The last card seems to have taken a heavy toll on her. She comes out of her trance, and blinks rapidly for a second or two before returning to normal. She falls back in her seat, visibly exhausted.
"The fates have been revealed. It feels as if your enemy was trying to resist having his fortunes revealed. More cannot be told. The future is now up to you, to be made. One way or another. I may be able to read the last card once
Now, I am exhausted. Reading the fates is not an easy task. I must rest now. Please excuse me."
She then gently but firmly sends you on your way and retreats to her tent to rest, exhausted from the ordeal.
Alcazar follows the others to Eva's tent, not sure what to expect, and surprised to find a what seems to him like a common fortune teller. As he listens, he frowns at what seems like the usual confusing mumblings and half-truths of such people. His only surprise being that she didn't ask for coin before telling them of their bountiful and confusing futures.
"Not very informative," he mumbles as they are quickly ushered out. "Any of you make sense of it?" he asks outside, looking at his companions.
As they return to the main camp he approaches the leader, clearing his throat he bows slightly and takes a deep breath to speak. "Your people must travel widely and hear a lot. Have you heard any news of a girl -- a runaway -- from Barovia? We agreed to try to find her, and have been singularly unsuccessful thus far."
The blonde elven maiden gives the Vistani a slightly amused smile. "I'm afraid I couldn't afford a potion that powerful but thank you most kindly for the gracious offer."
While in Madame Eva's tent, Celeste listens attentively to her fortune telling, commiting her predictions to memory, then stepping outside again with the others. "While I agree it was all quite vague I believe there could be truth's hidden in those cards, the hidden enemy being Strahd and the other cards telling us where to find what we need to defeat him. I will at least have them in mind when we travel." She answers Alcazar with a warm smile.
"Yes, her name is Gertruda." Celeste chimes in with Alcazar as he asks about the missing girl, showing the Vistani her picture.
Janek overhears the Vistani that suggest they purchase potions to travel to the fog. He studies the man as he speaks, trying to get an idea of whether he actually believes what he says. (Insight: 13)
He then continues with the others to listen to Madame Eva. Coming away, when well out of earshot, he comments. "It seemed vague enough to possibly fit most situations. But perhaps we will find they lend some clues to our path. But they seem to be the sort of clues that only can be fully appreciated after you've already discovered the answer. I had hoped for more concrete guidance."
Alcazar follows the others to Eva's tent, not sure what to expect, and surprised to find a what seems to him like a common fortune teller. As he listens, he frowns at what seems like the usual confusing mumblings and half-truths of such people. His only surprise being that she didn't ask for coin before telling them of their bountiful and confusing futures.
"Not very informative," he mumbles as they are quickly ushered out. "Any of you make sense of it?" he asks outside, looking at his companions.
As they return to the main camp he approaches the leader, clearing his throat he bows slightly and takes a deep breath to speak. "Your people must travel widely and hear a lot. Have you heard any news of a girl -- a runaway -- from Barovia? We agreed to try to find her, and have been singularly unsuccessful thus far."
The blonde elven maiden gives the Vistani a slightly amused smile. "I'm afraid I couldn't afford a potion that powerful but thank you most kindly for the gracious offer."
While in Madame Eva's tent, Celeste listens attentively to her fortune telling, commiting her predictions to memory, then stepping outside again with the others. "While I agree it was all quite vague I believe there could be truth's hidden in those cards, the hidden enemy being Strahd and the other cards telling us where to find what we need to defeat him. I will at least have them in mind when we travel." She answers Alcazar with a warm smile.
"Yes, her name is Gertruda." Celeste chimes in with Alcazar as he asks about the missing girl, showing the Vistani her picture.
You ask around the group, but they all shrug or shake their heads. One of the Vistani responds: "No, we haven't seen her. But we have been encamped here at the pool and if she took the main road - or just went somewhere else - she wouldn't have passed our camp."
The blonde elven maiden would return to the campfire, enjoying the company of the exotic Vistani, particularly any singing and dancing taken place, also listening to any more stories about this realm they would like to share before eventually trying to find a comfortable place for her bedroll.
Rodan rubs the back of his head as the party exits the seer's tent.
"Say now... did that old Gam-Gam just spill the beans on our futures? So, just like that, we're destined to give this vampire a good trouncin'? Hrmph. Not that I'm gripin', mind you. I'm just a wee bit... skeptical, is all. We stroll in, and get the 'Hi, how's she cuttin'?, and oh, by the way, here's the lowdown on how you off the ancient darklord who pulls the strings on this misty hell space, don't ya know?' Seems a bit too simple, don't it? The old gal might be workin' a beamer on us."
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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
The blonde elven maiden would return to the campfire, enjoying the company of the exotic Vistani, particularly any singing and dancing taken place, also listening to any more stories about this realm they would like to share before eventually trying to find a comfortable place for her bedroll.
The Vistani tells you some other tales and stories, some of battles and heroes, some stories of romance - and all interspersed with a good amount of lewd jokes. Some of the stories you hear include for example: The tale of some knights who failed in their quest and now forever haunt their crypt; some fairy tales of young princesses and their eventual rescue from or to grand castles and towers; the tale of a tragic princess who threw herself from a tower when her lover died, but who keeps being reborn to look for him anew; the tale of a women who tries to save her half-brother from a terrible fate but has to give up her youth and looks in return for long life and powers; the tale of a heroic merchant in 'dark goods' who tricked his evil clients by only selling useless forgeries; and some amusing stories set in a world that is a flat disc sat on on top of four elephants who in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle.
Rodan rubs the back of his head as the party exits the seer's tent.
"Say now... did that old Gam-Gam just spill the beans on our futures? So, just like that, we're destined to give this vampire a good trouncin'? Hrmph. Not that I'm gripin', mind you. I'm just a wee bit... skeptical, is all. We stroll in, and get the 'Hi, how's she cuttin'?, and oh, by the way, here's the lowdown on how you off the ancient darklord who pulls the strings on this misty hell space, don't ya know?' Seems a bit too simple, don't it? The old gal might be workin' a beamer on us."
(You are staying overnight, and the reading took place in the evening. Madam Eva may be rested and recovered by the morning if you want to talk to her some more)
Nothing else particularly interesting or unual happens in the evening, and you spreads your bedrolls by the fire to make use of its warmth. By the time you go to sleep, most Vistani are also asleep with the exception of a couple of the younger ones who carry on drinking a little further away and singing bawdy songs.
Your sleep well, but your dreams are fitful and disturbed. Your minds turn over the strange prophecies of Madame Eva, showing you images of items of power: You dream of a pendant of a holy symbol in the shape of a star, and in your dream you use it to shed bright sunlight; you dream of slashing at your foes with a sword of sunlight; you dream of studying a book that tells you of your enemies history and weaknesses; you dream of your group facing the castle, being joined by an ally who appears to be arguing with his wife who refuses to let him fight strahd. The dreams are disjointed, mixed up, and unclear - as dreams often are. But you believe that they are likely linked to the foretelling of last night - through which dream belongs to which of the Tarokka card and predictions seems hard to tell.
You wake up in the morning as the sun rises - although as before, almost always obscured by clouds -feeling refreshed and ready to face the day. The Vistani mostly wake up around the same time, although a few seem to be moving sluggishly and holding their heads as if with a headache; and the couple of youths who drank until late in the night still seem to be fast asleep and snoring loudly, showing no sign of stirring.
"Ah the sleeping ones awaken at last!" Alcazar looks up from the cooking fire, his pale features almost blend into the mist and he does not seem to notice the damp that clings to his decrepit frock coat.
He points toward the mystic's wagon. "Perhaps she will be less tired this morning and we can get some answers. What do you think?"
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Ismark ponders this for a while, as he is walking along. Finally, he responds with a long rambling train of thought, as this is clearly something that has preyed on his mind before.
"I have often wondered the same thing myself. My father was always opposed to Strahd and tried to make the life of the people better. This at least gave them some hope, but in truth, he never achieved anything. Some of the old men in the village say that all hope is false hope in Barovia. Personally, I think they're just grumpy old cynics. But sometimes I think: what if they are right?
I once read an ancient book on War and Strategy, by a General Tacticus. One of the things he wrote stuck in my mind. It's that one of the best ways to win a battle or even a war is to make the other side believe they have already lost - then you need never fight it and can just move ahead as if you had won. I debated this with my father many times in the past. Does this apply to Strahd? Does he want to think us defeated? Or could he be more devious that this and, unlike General Tacticus who was known as a good man, could he actually aim for the exact opposite? Perhaps he wants us to have hope so that we charge at his gates like Doru and the others did. Perhaps he relishes the conflict.
But truly, who knows. By all accounts Strahd is as ancient as the land and has lived many lifetimes. Who knows what someone as ancient and evil as that may plan.
Or perhaps he doesn't plan anything and doesn't think about us any more than a farmer would consider the worms in the soil.
Who knows. Your guess is as good as mine."
Ireena says "Indeed we are hoping that you will stay with us. The sun is setting, and I think it best that we don't travel at night. The Vistani are usually happy to share their fire with others, so we should ask to spend the night here. This is only a minor detour on the way to Valliki, and may even throw others off our scent if they think we would follow the main road.
If your business is concluded tomorrow, or say the day after at the latest, I am sure Ismark and I can wait for you to finish and to continue the journey with us as you had promised. It will certainly be safer to travel in company."
Ireena "Excellent. Then it is settled. Let us make camp here with the Vistani tonight, and then continue on our journey once your business is concluded."
Janek travels along in silence until the finally start to approach the Vistani camp. "We should be cautious in our approach. But it seems there's nothing for it but to approach them directly. Let's just hope they might information about how to leave this place."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard ||
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer || Bronnryn Hethgar, Cleric
The blonde elven maiden smiles and nods at Ireena, then starting to head down to the Vistani camp, hoping to make new friends and share in their music.
Rodan blinks at Ismark's response. He seems... disarmed. Whatever he had been expecting, it clearly wasn't these thoughtful and earnest words. He merely nods and falls back to the rear of the pack again, seemingly pondering the young man's answer. He follows the others into the camp.
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
You approach the centre of the camp where a large campfire is lit. Around the fire, there are twelve Vistani standing and sitting around, telling stories and guzzling wine. They are seems somewhat intoxicated, and appear quite cheerful and friendly.
As you enter, Ismark makes the introduction and the Vistani offer you a place around their fire. They share some food and drink (nothing fancy, quite basic but tasty fare; and cheap but strong liquor).
One of the older Vistani sitting by the fire looks at you, and say "Ah, newcomers. You look like outsiders. In fact, you remind me of others who have come before. I see some of you have signs of being magic-users. That reminds me of a grand story" The man strikes you as the sort to use any excuse to tell a tale, possibly a tall one, and your suspicious are confirmed almost immediately, when he launches into a story he has clearly told many times before. With much some overacting, he tells the following story: "A mighty wizard came to this land over a year ago. I remember him like it was yesterday. He stood exactly where you're standing. A very charismatic man, he was. He looked grand and impressive, and perhaps he even wove some spells to further increase his charisma and influence. He had heard of this land, and he thought he could rally the people of Barovia against the 'devil' Strahd to cleanse the land. He stirred the people with thoughts of revolt and bore them to the castle en masse. When the vampire appeared, the wizard's peasant army fled in terror. A few stood their ground and were never seen again.
The wizard and the vampire cast spells at each other. Such spells, and such destruction and spectacle as few will ever see. Their battle raged from the courtyards of Ravenloft to a precipice overlooking the falls. On and on their fought, fighting ever fiercer. I saw the battle with my own eyes. Most who saw it fled in terror, but I am made of stronger stuff and stayed nearby to watch. Thunder shook the mountainside, and great rocks tumbled down upon the wizard, yet by his magic he survived. Lightning from the heavens struck the wizard, and again he stood his ground. But in the end, Strahd fell upon him in close melee, and the wizard's magic couldn't save him. I saw him thrown a thousand feet to his death. Later, I climbed down to the river to search for the wizard's body, to see if he had anything of value, but the River Ivlis had already spirited him away."
The other Vistani carry on drinking and chatting while he tells the story. They clearly have heard it before and you get the impression that they think the tale might be slightly embellished.
Some of the other Vistani urge you to see their leader, Madame Eva, in the large tent. They say she has the gift of foresight and prophecy, and that you would be wise to seek out her council.
Celeste would find herself a seat by the fire, gratefully accepting the food and even liquor the vistani share. She listens attentively to the story the older vistani tells, recalling the wizard in black the priest had spoken of. She would then share in pleasant conversation, praising the vistani music, food and drink, asking the vistani about their travels and finally asking if they were able to travel through the mysterious fog.
Persuasion: 5
Insight: 11
Later she would indeed visit Madame Eve in the large tent to have her fate revelaed.
(Meh, use inspiration to reroll persuasion if that is okay: 14 )
Thulewyn intently listens to the story of the wizard, knowing full well that the story's telling of events were probably over dramatic, but he believed the underlying story to be true. We have got to find that mage. Enjoying the food and drink, he passes on seeing this Madame Eve "Me fate be me own, and I plan to discover it the old fashion way." After the story teller seems to break from the crowd, Thulewyn will try to get more info about the wizard from him. "Where exactly did the brave soul fall? What did you say he called himself?"
Janek had settled into a spot and listened quietly to the tale shared by the older Vistani. He says little other than to thank any of this group for the hospitality. When Thulewyn mentions not visiting Madame Eve, he comments. "Perhaps we should all take heed and go together to hear what council this woman would offer. I'm not one to place much faith in fortune, but it is good to listen to the wise."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard ||
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer || Bronnryn Hethgar, Cleric
One of the Vistani tells you "Ah yes, the fog. The locals are stymied by it, but we have found a solution a long time ago that allows us to travel through the fog. We have a magical potion. It's a closely guarded secret, and the ingredients are expensive, but we would be willing to sell you a few bottles for the right price." He looks you up and down, trying to estimate your wealth.
"I never caught his name. Too clever to get caught up too close in these things myself. I just watched from the distance.
He fell by the Tser falls, not far West from here. But there is nothing left there. Believe me. If there had been, you would see me wearing much finer clothes than these rags!"
You are Les to Madame Eva's tent and introduced. The Vistani wisewoman looks at you solemnly and does not seem the slightest bit surprised to see you. She is wrinkled and old, yet somehow loos lively at the same time.
She then proceeds to read your fortune for you:
"I will read your fortune, but be aware that the answers may not be always be immediately clear, or may not be what you wish to hear. But I hope that it will help you in your endeavours."
She takes a deep breath, whispers an incantation in her native tongue, and seems to falls into a trace of sorts. While still in this trance, she begins to draw out the cards in a pattern and speaks in soft hushed tones:
"The first card card tells of history. Knowledge of the ancient will help you better understand your enemy.
The card is the One of Stars, the Transmuter: Go to a place of dizzying heights, where the stone itself is alive!
The second card tells of a powerful force for good and protection, a holy symbol of great hope.
It is the Two of Coins, the Philanthropist: Look to a place where sickness and madness are bred. Where children once cried, the treasure lies still.
The third is a card of power and strength. It tells of a weapon of vengeance: a sword of sunlight.
It is the Nine of Coins, the Miser: Look for a fortress inside a fortress, in a place hidden behind fire.
The fourth card sheds light on one who will help you greatly in the battle against darkness.
It is the Horseman: I see a dead man of noble birth, guarded by his widow. Return life to the dead man's corpse, and he will be your staunch ally.
The final card concerns your enemy. He is a creature of darkness, whose powers are beyond mortality. This last card will lead you to him!
It is the Mists: The cards cannot see where the evil lurks. The mists obscure all!"
The last card seems to have taken a heavy toll on her. She comes out of her trance, and blinks rapidly for a second or two before returning to normal. She falls back in her seat, visibly exhausted.
"The fates have been revealed. It feels as if your enemy was trying to resist having his fortunes revealed. More cannot be told. The future is now up to you, to be made. One way or another. I may be able to read the last card once
Now, I am exhausted. Reading the fates is not an easy task. I must rest now. Please excuse me."
She then gently but firmly sends you on your way and retreats to her tent to rest, exhausted from the ordeal.
Alcazar follows the others to Eva's tent, not sure what to expect, and surprised to find a what seems to him like a common fortune teller. As he listens, he frowns at what seems like the usual confusing mumblings and half-truths of such people. His only surprise being that she didn't ask for coin before telling them of their bountiful and confusing futures.
"Not very informative," he mumbles as they are quickly ushered out. "Any of you make sense of it?" he asks outside, looking at his companions.
As they return to the main camp he approaches the leader, clearing his throat he bows slightly and takes a deep breath to speak. "Your people must travel widely and hear a lot. Have you heard any news of a girl -- a runaway -- from Barovia? We agreed to try to find her, and have been singularly unsuccessful thus far."
The blonde elven maiden gives the Vistani a slightly amused smile. "I'm afraid I couldn't afford a potion that powerful but thank you most kindly for the gracious offer."
While in Madame Eva's tent, Celeste listens attentively to her fortune telling, commiting her predictions to memory, then stepping outside again with the others. "While I agree it was all quite vague I believe there could be truth's hidden in those cards, the hidden enemy being Strahd and the other cards telling us where to find what we need to defeat him. I will at least have them in mind when we travel." She answers Alcazar with a warm smile.
"Yes, her name is Gertruda." Celeste chimes in with Alcazar as he asks about the missing girl, showing the Vistani her picture.
Janek overhears the Vistani that suggest they purchase potions to travel to the fog. He studies the man as he speaks, trying to get an idea of whether he actually believes what he says. (Insight: 13)
He then continues with the others to listen to Madame Eva. Coming away, when well out of earshot, he comments. "It seemed vague enough to possibly fit most situations. But perhaps we will find they lend some clues to our path. But they seem to be the sort of clues that only can be fully appreciated after you've already discovered the answer. I had hoped for more concrete guidance."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard ||
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer || Bronnryn Hethgar, Cleric
You ask around the group, but they all shrug or shake their heads. One of the Vistani responds: "No, we haven't seen her. But we have been encamped here at the pool and if she took the main road - or just went somewhere else - she wouldn't have passed our camp."
The blonde elven maiden would return to the campfire, enjoying the company of the exotic Vistani, particularly any singing and dancing taken place, also listening to any more stories about this realm they would like to share before eventually trying to find a comfortable place for her bedroll.
Rodan rubs the back of his head as the party exits the seer's tent.
"Say now... did that old Gam-Gam just spill the beans on our futures? So, just like that, we're destined to give this vampire a good trouncin'? Hrmph. Not that I'm gripin', mind you. I'm just a wee bit... skeptical, is all. We stroll in, and get the 'Hi, how's she cuttin'?, and oh, by the way, here's the lowdown on how you off the ancient darklord who pulls the strings on this misty hell space, don't ya know?' Seems a bit too simple, don't it? The old gal might be workin' a beamer on us."
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
(Sorry, was only on mobile for a few days as too busy at work, but have now had a chance to put together the Tarokka reading in a proper format:)
The Vistani tells you some other tales and stories, some of battles and heroes, some stories of romance - and all interspersed with a good amount of lewd jokes. Some of the stories you hear include for example: The tale of some knights who failed in their quest and now forever haunt their crypt; some fairy tales of young princesses and their eventual rescue from or to grand castles and towers; the tale of a tragic princess who threw herself from a tower when her lover died, but who keeps being reborn to look for him anew; the tale of a women who tries to save her half-brother from a terrible fate but has to give up her youth and looks in return for long life and powers; the tale of a heroic merchant in 'dark goods' who tricked his evil clients by only selling useless forgeries; and some amusing stories set in a world that is a flat disc sat on on top of four elephants who in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle.
(You are staying overnight, and the reading took place in the evening. Madam Eva may be rested and recovered by the morning if you want to talk to her some more)
Nothing else particularly interesting or unual happens in the evening, and you spreads your bedrolls by the fire to make use of its warmth. By the time you go to sleep, most Vistani are also asleep with the exception of a couple of the younger ones who carry on drinking a little further away and singing bawdy songs.
Your sleep well, but your dreams are fitful and disturbed. Your minds turn over the strange prophecies of Madame Eva, showing you images of items of power: You dream of a pendant of a holy symbol in the shape of a star, and in your dream you use it to shed bright sunlight; you dream of slashing at your foes with a sword of sunlight; you dream of studying a book that tells you of your enemies history and weaknesses; you dream of your group facing the castle, being joined by an ally who appears to be arguing with his wife who refuses to let him fight strahd. The dreams are disjointed, mixed up, and unclear - as dreams often are. But you believe that they are likely linked to the foretelling of last night - through which dream belongs to which of the Tarokka card and predictions seems hard to tell.
You wake up in the morning as the sun rises - although as before, almost always obscured by clouds -feeling refreshed and ready to face the day. The Vistani mostly wake up around the same time, although a few seem to be moving sluggishly and holding their heads as if with a headache; and the couple of youths who drank until late in the night still seem to be fast asleep and snoring loudly, showing no sign of stirring.
"Ah the sleeping ones awaken at last!" Alcazar looks up from the cooking fire, his pale features almost blend into the mist and he does not seem to notice the damp that clings to his decrepit frock coat.
He points toward the mystic's wagon. "Perhaps she will be less tired this morning and we can get some answers. What do you think?"