Salem let his eyes linger on Mordred for a moment. Couldn't think of a world where he could think what the vampire was doing was right? Of course not. He knew that. He laid a hand on the center of his chest and sighed. For now it was best to not talk about it. He didn't feel like explaining himself or his thinking on it. The way they made it sound was... His thoughts came to an abrupt stop as he heard the priest speak. It wasn't time to think about this was it?
Being in the church and hearing everyone's different thoughts definitely made him feel confused and conflicted. He glanced briefly towards Ireena. Was she holding Lucien's hand? Oh great. He would just forget about that for now. His eyes soon moved to the priest as he put whatever thoughts and feelings he had a side. He had to for now. He didn't know this priest at all. He seemed distraught though. He had lost his son right? That was hard to imagine. Or maybe it wasn't. He had a feeling he knew how his own father would react if he had died.
When things frightened him and he didn't think he could fight back his father was the one person he could count on. He adored his father. He didn't know what he would do without him. Losing him would... Kill him. Maybe it was a similar feeling. This priest had given up hadn't he? It was a sad sight. He looked around the place with a flicker of his eyes. He didn't normally just enter churches. There was only one place he actually stepped in that was like this, but it wasn't completely in shambles yet and was still beautiful. This place... It held no real beauty. Maybe it was because he wasn't much into religion.
Ravna gives Parpol a small parting smile just as she enters the door, however that smile is short lived. She glances at both Ireena and Mordred with a neutral expression before proceeding. Seems both these siblings have a bit of an issue with blaming themselves for things they cannot control. Though Mordred suffers from that problem far worse than his sister. She had figured Mordred would respond with a comment like that. Normally she'd try to tell him again that yes, he may have spoken to the hearts of those poor souls, and he does bear some responsibility, but it was still their decision and it is not something he need dwell on. However, she feels he will come to learn that in time, and right now she has other matters to attend. She barely hears the brother and sister's last few comments about her looks, vampires, and forcing ideals. Right now she's to focused on the priest.
Her eyes narrow at the man's response to her words, and she clenches her fists at seeing the missing holy symbol. A trick by the vampire? What is that supposed to mean. This is a church, unless it was a church built for the devil, the devil should have no hold here....unless of course he was invited in. "Trick by the vampire?" She says through gritted teeth, "Are you saying he has weaseled his way into these walls? Or did you allow him to do so?" Her voice slowly turns from angry to solemn, "The light will never leave Barovia, so long as people like these exist." She waves a hand, gesturing to her companions. "No, you are the one who has lost your light."She fixes the man with her red gaze, "It will take more then vampires and devils to dowse my light. It is my duty to bring light to the darkest places, and I will not abandon that duty." She pauses. "Despite what you may believe, no one is beyond help so long as there is life in their lungs. Yes, your son and your friend are gone, but will you let their light fade with them? Now.... what do you mean by 'It'?"
Donavich flinches and looks upon Daestra for a moment and his words
Ravna sounds unsure by trick of the vampire in her words. Donavich can see something familiar in her eyes before pondering back to Daestra.
"Allow him..? Ahh.. you too underestimate darkness in Barovia.. like me... I was a fool to believe in such things... The vampire owns the land.. and has for some time. It's Lord both in title and in name.. I thought at least it being a church! The church... does not slow him down. They are false truths.. He can enter here.. Or any home for that matter."
Ireena uncomfortably shifts clasping a hand on her own neck.
"I-It's true... while his spawn and wives need to be invited.. He does not.. I did not know however that even churches were not safe. "
Donavich looks to Ravna almost expecting her to get it now.
Do you see now? These walls? Our light does nothing but bring forth pain.. it's an illusion of safety and we were fools to believe in it."
His shoulders slump almost feeling that answering Ravna's question pointless now that she knows the idea of safety is truly lost and it may be best to instead abandon hope. Except... Salem and Daestra only continue to encourage with soft words and a question of aid. Donavich stares at Salem.. unsure for a moment but seeing an outsider like Daestra.
"You are not like Mordred.. Nor Salem.. Nor Ireena.. Nor the paladin with clouded eyes of anger and exhaustion. Her smile is gone.. her elf friend is eternally nervous.. This land steals you're smile it is why her and Mordred share that same.. hollow expression I'm afraid. Yet.. you have a light.. a softness a lightness to the way you speak.. I had not believed her's cold expression of light.. Only hollow attempts to give herself peace. Her face does not portray light and yet if you all stand together... even after knowing our villages fate... Perhaps..."
Than even Lucian as shy as he is.. Had offered to help. Donavich blinks and looks rather shocked by this. Ireena grips Lucians hand tighter and smiles seeing him offer her some reassurance. Despite her playful attitude it was clear.. She needed it. Her smile was sincere and it almost made Donavich stumble a bit. Mordred stood beside Ravna unhappy to hear that she and him could be hollow.
"I grew up looking up to you Donavich and I know how I appear. I do still.. feel I am but a man. She is but a woman, I will admit I have not seen her smile... and I know not if she is one of the "colorless" who cannot. Yet.. she has righteous anger that no colorless has ever shown. She... can feel she can.. Wait.."
Mordred looks to where Parpol had gone before, the church doors. Ireena stares at Mordred.. hoping he recalls Ravna's action before. It takes him a moment.. but he does.
"She... smile at.. my friend Parpol. It was small but it was sincere.. her and Salem clashed on ideals but not to despair. Salem can feel.. even offer small smiles like her. Her smile.... it was.. Truth be told it was beautiful. I wish to see Daestra and Lucian smile.. I wish to see my sister smile more.. For real. Parpol still grins at us with childish glee. Ravna is right! She may be brash... she may be a bit pushy... But I can be too.. She isn't wrong! Father.. would have liked her. She has a strong spirit, like him and she says this to help you.. You old fool! Daestra is a stranger and he puts himself here to help. Salem has offered our villages aid before and has helped me to come outside the tavern and my room. Lucian.. has spoken up for our sake. Told Bildrath we must stand together so morninglord above.. Let us stand together Donavich."
Donavich looks to Mordred, it's clear he's never been this forward with Donavich and the surprise on his face shows. Mordred offers than.. a weak smile, his eyes are still piercing and a bit harsh. The smile seems awkward and strange and not exactly appealing but it was sincere to say the very least. Donavich looks at Daestra once more.. Than Salem and Ravna and lost but not least his gaze ends on Lucian.
"Mordred doesn't mean any harm Donavich we just-"
"Even knowing a church or a home cannot save us.. You all wish.. Dare to hope? Hmm... I will tell you than. I was here at the church... when I thought Doru had knocked calling me by name. I answered the door and told him to come in. Doru was here.. With Strahd himself. I had raised my holy symbol told him he was not welcomed here.. But he walked on end. Told Doru.. To devour me and try he did. The man.. laughed as he began to walk away. Saying the village would learn it's lesson and so would "Mordred the Lesser." it was a nightmare.. I had managed with some of my blood and a rag to trick that thing wearing my sons skin into the undercroft here.. A basement of sorts. I locked him in, but he wore the symbol I gave him the day of the invasion. Without my symbol... and that dead thing.. Pretending to be my son.. My miracles cannot work. So.. if we dare to hope I must ask... Go down below and slay what wears his skin. The Devil's trick and reclaim my symbol. Than.. I can give my old friend Kolyana a proper burial. I can give you the keys down below. I must warn.. Even a spawn.. A lesser vampire can be dangerous alone so do be ready. I do not wish to see you're lights.. be snuffed out."
Daestra listens closely to what Donavich has to say, as he hears of the vampire locked away down below his eyes get wider, he is unsure of himself but wants to help. He looks over to the rest of the group as Donavich finishes “I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be to take on these vampires, I’ve never battled such creatures but I know we must do it to save this village”
He looks to Donavich and Parpol “We will take care of this problem Donavich, we must for everyone’s sake, but I do want to ask you if you have anything that may be of assistance to us during our time down there? Either way we will take this on with great caution.”
Daestra steps aside while gripping the hilt of his sword somewhat nervously but ready to take on what is ahead of him.
Lucian tries not to look too awkward as so many words are exchanged around him... plus he has this girl he just met holding his hand, which he still can't seem to wrap his mind around. Ugh, why does he have to overthink everything? He squeezes his eyes shut for a moment, still aware that his face is burning. Then he opens them and tries to pretend that everything is normal and that everything will be okay and go according to plan... wait... what plan?
He does give a nervous smile, partially because he's internally laughing at his own nervousness (curse his nerves) and partially to try to improve whatever this situation is. However, the smile quickly fades at the mention of a vampire spawn that Donavich wants them to fight. ...Oh dear. Fighting is not something he is super confident doing. Running away. That was something he could do. But now wasn't the time for that. He knew what he signed onto as soon as he started down this path. The time for running was no more, now he needed to face what came head on. No excuses...
He swallowed, hoping that he doesn't look as frightened as he feels. He knows he can hold his own in a fight, but... can he control his nerves too? What if... no, he can't think about that. He'll... he'll make it work. Timidly, he glances back at Ravna, hoping she has something more to say. Maybe her paladin powers can give them an edge against the undead vampire spawn. Then he lets go of Ireena's hand... glancing up at her for a moment before quickly looking away and saying, "Y...yeah. We... we can take care of it." He flexes his fingers, adjusting the wraps on his arms--trying to look like he's getting ready even though it's really just a way to nervously fidget with something.
Her steady glare wavers momentarily when it is confirmed that Strahd can enter wherever he wishes unhindered. Is she really that naive? However, she quickly recovers as she continues to listen to the priest. Hollow. He thinks I am Hollow? And Mordred? She glances at Mordred out of the corner of her eye, then her gaze returns to the priest. His words do not appear to affect her at all, he can think whatever he wants of her and her companions. Thoughts alone can't change the truth. She could say a lot of things in this moment. It's true that she doesn't smile often, but something can be said for that. After all, those who always wear a smile are often only wearing a mask. It is better a smile be rare rather than insincere. However, she remains silent and listens. She takes interest in how Mordred and Ireena respond. While not entirely sure how she should feel about Mordred defending her personality, she is thankful that they are all standing by her. On top of this, it seems his words have swayed Donovich. As the priest tells his tale, her frown deepens. That devil, defiling the dead and torturing their loved ones. Surly there is no one more vile.
When Daestra and even Lucian speak up saying they'd help. She pulls her wing lance from her back, and slams the end of it onto the floor. "Of course, I will help in cleansing this place and reclaiming your holy symbol. I will not stand by while a demon dances around in your son's skin." The anger has not left her eyes, if anything it's only grown. Regardless, her expression morphs into a confident smirk. Yes, even devil spawn are dangerous, but now is not her time to fall. So fearing death is pointless. "Do not fear for us, it will take more than the devil himself to steal my light, and I will not allow for the light of my comrades to fade before mine."
She holds out her hand, expecting the priest to hand over the key.
Salem listened to all of this and he found he was not pleased with what was being said. Wearing his son's skin. That wasn't true. That's not how vampire spawn worked. They weren't demons... That wasn't the thing that truly got him though. It wasn't the thing that really hurt and made him feel confused and uneasy. Strahd... He had made the vampire spawn attack this priest. A sickness churned in his stomach. This was awful. That poor boy had no choice. He had to do as told. He couldn't. He couldn't kill a spawn..? Could he? He was still a person in there even if he couldn't disobey commands. A demon. He looked to Ravna. Is that what she truly thought? No. He couldn't allow this.
He slowly looked towards the priest. If he were to speak... What would that cause and would anyone really believe him? He bit hard on the inside of his cheek. If he didn't say anything would all of them run down with the intent to murder? If he did say something though would they look at him with suspicion. They couldn't know everything about him... If they did... He looked down at the floor. Why had he done this? Was this truly needed? Was this the petty things he was to expect from... Yes... He knew that answer. It was yes... Would he... Be like this too someday?
He defiantly gave a shake of his head and moved his eyes back to the priest. He couldn't let him think this was the truth. There was no monster... No devil in his son's skin. That truly was his son and he was sending him to another death. One that wasn't deserved. He didn't care if he got questioned. All that mattered was that he saved the life of that poor tortured soul down there. A soul that had no choice in its actions any longer.
He would have choice words about this for Strahd. What the hell had he been thinking? Then a glance to Ireena. That's right. He wasn't thinking was he? He never did when she was around. Sighing and knowing he may regret speaking he opened his mouth to do so anyway.
"I understand that Doru is your son. I also know that what happened must have been truly terrifying and you could never imagine your son attacking you, but please I want you to listen to me. Not just to you priest, but everyone here as well. A vampire spawn doesn't get a choice in its actions. He could have been screaming in his head that he didn't want to do this. Once it's given an order it must follow it. It doesn't matter what it wants to do at the time. You may think Doru is a monster... A demon... He's not. That's really him in there. I know it is. That's your son you are talking about wanting killed. Is that really what you want... Is that the kind of father you are? I will help you, but I won't kill him. I won't kill him unless I know for sure he isn't really a person in there anymore. Knowing that he was commanded though... Tells me that he didn't want to attack you willingly."
None of them had any right to believe him, but he lived with spawn. He knew how they worked as he had seen it before. He always thought the control over them was necessary and he never thought they would be commanded like this though. He didn't want to believe it. Honestly he wanted to leave this church and just go home. Turn a blind eye... Maybe he had been doing that for too long though... Had he been letting him be a monster out of love? He laid a hand on the center of his chest. His slow beating heart ached. He hadn't cried since he was a child, but he felt like doing it now. Why was he believing what this priest said about Strahd though?
It wasn't just the priest though was it? It was the state of this village and everything he had been observing the months that he's been coming here. This was just... Too much... Maybe he didn't understand though... Maybe this was the right way, but was turning one's son on them to eat them truly the right thing? No... It wasn't. For once he was opening his eyes to everything that he had witnessed in his life. He should have done this with the first incident. Yet he thought the first incident was deserved, but he had forgotten... Not everyone was a bad person... Innocence probably had perished then.
No matter what he thought though he loved him and wished to just turn away from all of this as if none of it ever happened.
Donavich looks to Daestra and thinks for a moment.
"Had I my magic.. I could have bolstered you.. I don't have anything useful I am afraid."
Ireena releases Lucians hand as well and tries to give a reassuring nod as he prepares himself.
The priest had lowered his head thanking Ravna for her offer.
"Thank you.. thank you.. I know not what to say you truly have a kind.. and living heart we are all not dead inside.. Not yet."
Donavich instructs them to the room it would be toward the undercroft.
fAn old desk and chair stand against the south wall, a wooden holy symbol mounted above them—a sunburst. A ten-foot-long iron rod attached to the north wall stands bare, suggesting a tapestry once hung there. Against the far wall stands a wooden cabinet with four tall doors. This appears to be an office of sorts.
Than Salem had begun to spoke lost in his thoughts. Mordred looks confused but Ireena.. Ireena gives a resonating nod it seems that... This is how she feels deep down. Mordred is torn... he looks to Ravna than Salem.
"The light to burn evil.. The light to save my best friend... I don't know. Aren't I being selfish? By wanting more?"
"No! Salem's right we don't have to kill.. Right?"
Donavich looks rather sullen.
"How do you know so much? Of Spawn? The children don't ask you... enough questions perhaps. Still.. if you can save what is or was my son.. I may accept that.. if you are certain he is no danger. But do not hesitate as it is more likely he is the demon in my sons skin. I want to be the father that free's my son's body untainted. Even if I seem the monster for it, but I will not stand in you're way ser Salem as the I have already given the keys to the undercroft."
OOC Parpol has left earlier I believe. If I am wrong though do feel free to correct me ^^
Daestra walks up to Salem “I don’t believe any of us want to kill whatever is down there, but if necessary I won’t hold back. If you believe there is something left to save we can try for the sake of Donavich.”
He stands there pondering to himself for a moment, could Donavich’s son still be in there? I don’t personally understand much of these Vampires but as a guardsman I know that sometimes sacrifice is necessary for the greater good should it come down to it. Let’s hope for the sake of Donavich and Salem that we don’t need to end him.
He looks to the group “Shall we head down? I feel as though if I stand here much longer I may talk myself out of going down there.” He says rather hesitantly.
"You... really believe that?" Lucian asks Salem. The question sounds hopeful rather than judgmental, and there is a measure of desperation in his large pale eyes.
After a moment he looks down, fidgeting with his pocket watch before saying, "L...let's go."In response to Daestra's question of whether or not they should head down. The longer they wait the less he wants to jump into a fight too.
Salem's words have peaked his interest. At first he'd found the quiet stranger a little intimidating... well, he finds everyone a little intimidating most of the time, but still... he wasn't sure what to make of him. Now he wonders if maybe they could get along? Surely if he believes that a vampire spawn could still be human, that there could be hope for others who are suffering under curses that pit them against those they care about.
Even with his own response to head down to fight Doru, he doesn't make a move to enter until someone else (preferably Ravna) goes first.
Ravna turns to Salem as he speaks his thoughts, her eyes linger on him with a searching gaze for a moment after he finishes. He really thinks vampire spawn can be saved? That there is still at least a fragment of the person's soul left within them? If that is the case, and they are stuck in an undying body without control over their own actions, well that just seems like hell to her. That just makes them a puppet on Strahd's strings, a living toy for the devil to torture for eternity....well until he's taken down that is.
Eventually, she responds, she doesn't take her eyes off of Salem, but she's addressing everyone. "If there is anything left to save in Doru, then we will save it. We can try to reason with him, but if saving him means ending his torment, then that is what I'm prepared to do. If what he has become is a puppet for the devil, a puppet aware of and able to regret it's actions and unable to break free of the puppet-master's control, then freeing him of his bindings, and sending him into the Morning Lord's embrace is what must be done."
Yes, sometimes death is the ultimate release. If she were in Doru's shoes, it would be what she'd want for herself as well. It is better to die free than to live a slave after all. Taking the key, she strides over to the cellar door. Deep down, she does hope for a way to redeem souls trapped by Strahd, to let them regain their lives, but she cannot let that kind of thinking cloud her judgment. Every pawn controlled by Straud is yet another tool he can use to cause suffering, ending their lives is usually best for everyone around.
Once everyone is ready, she will open the undercroft and enter.
Salem looked quietly towards Lucien and tilted his head slightly. The elf was so quiet he hadn't expected him to speak to him. He was kind of the same way himself though. He rather actually stay to himself, but it seemed like this group was really bringing out his more talkative side. Was that a good thing though? So far he felt like he only wanted to pick fights with them.
"I don't just believe it. I know it. Not all of them are lost to us..."
He would stand behind this. He knew vampire spawn... One in particular came to his mind now and his frown grew. Had he been spurning him when he had only been looking for some kind of happiness in that dark place. He gave a slight shake of his head. He couldn't think about that right now. He needed to head down there and prove to them that Doru wasn't lost.
Not all vampire spawns were the same though... He understood that. Some of them enjoyed their new life, but if Doru was commanded... He doubted he enjoyed his life. He prepared himself to head down. He didn't know if he could actually end the life of this spawn though. It was against everything he knew...
As they descend into the undercroft the candlelight from the chapel above slips through the cracks, but there is no sign of any creature in the gloom.
A young man's voice, strained and tired, echoes from the darkness above.
"You've come to kill me, haven't you?"
From the darkness of the cross beams above, a figure unfurls itself like a moth from it's cocoon, moving like a spider as it lowers itself slowly to the ground. As it comes into the faint light, the shadow resolves into the form of a young man, some of his youthful features were familiar to Donnavich. Save for his dark red hair, piercing eyes and gaunt skin.
His skin is ghostly pale, with dirt and grime streaked across his face. His clothes are ripped and worn yet.. they appear rather noble almost as if they were from Ravenloft itself. His hair is an unkempt mess of tangles and knots. His eyes are bloodshot, his gaze darting from face to face. A leather cord hands around his neck, holding a bloodstained bronze sunburst that rest against his chest. He swallows and licks his lips and a pair of pointed fangs poke through. He looks to Mordred.. Than Ireena as they watch in shock.
"If you want to kill me... I won't fight you.
His voice cracks as he looks up holding his symbol tightly.
"I have one request... and if I fail.. I don't want Ireena or Mordred to see me fail...
"Doru! Salem wants to help!"
"Salem..? He spoke.. spoke of a Salem... Perhaps my request is foolish... Perhaps I should just give up. It may be best I lay down here and simply..."
Mordred clenches his first and looks to Salem... Is it too painful to hope? He looks to Ravna instead for a moment. Doru is equal parts.... despair and hope. Part of him thought of trying but part of him feels.. Dead and defeated. Is Ravna right? Should he free his friend with death? Or can... he a broken man dare to hope in a broken land? Is Salem being naive? No.. he's a smart man the smartest Mordred knows... He was stuck looking to them both.
Ireena instead looked to Daestra and Lucian, happy to see Lucian and Salem got along but unsure of what to do what to say.
OOC I added Doru's picture to the Owlbear but if ya wanna see ya can ^^
Daestra yells over to Doru “Doru we don’t want to kill you! Your father still cares about you and we want to help! I won’t say it’s easy coming down here to try and reason with a vampiric spawn but we refuse to not try and help you if we can, Strahd will pay for what he has done!”
Daestra looks to Salem “You seem to know more about these things than anyone in the group currently, what can we do?”
Daestra thinks to himself briefly, Can we strip his son from this thing? Or is this his son now? I don’t know but I’m still skeptical of being able to save him from what he has become, hopefully he can listen to reason and isn’t too far gone.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ravna stands in silence at the head of the group for a while. Doru's immediate surrender, has caught her a bit off guard. However, this could easily be just a ploy by the puppetmaster. Despite her hesitation, she stands firm, though there is a glint of sadness in here eyes. Eyes, that turn to Salem after lingering on the sorry creature before them. Doru seemed to wish for death before Ireena had planted the seed of hope in him. If Ravna had been dealing with this alone, she would have ended his suffering in an instant, confident that she had been doing the right thing. However, she doesn't wish to extinguish hope in anyone. If Salem is right, and those cursed to become pawns for the devil can be saved....well, this would be a game changer. A new hope could be spread across the land, a light to say that no one is truly lost. However, she refrains from responding at the moment. She dares not ignite that hope to brightly within her until there is proof that it would not be a false hope. So, she continues to eye Salem, waiting for his response.
OOC For her religion check! She knows that while the Morninglord believes death to be the end for undead. There is discussion of theory, wish magic of course can revert them but most Barovians don't even believe such a thing exist.
An angels power may also prove useful in a divine mirace or intervention.
Another popular theory though unsure is that they are slain and somehow revived.. Though no one is sure if such magic works on the undead.
As for peaceful spawn and vampires? Only rumblings and stories of such things. The best thing to do.. one doctor, a Cleric even she recalls one the high priest of Vallaki spoke of.
Van Rickten is an expert on all things vampires.
The man and his writings would surely have the sorta answers, and may even give an edge in the fight against Strahd of course. If such a man exist.. a vampire hunter. He would surely come for Strahd eventually.. Wouldn't he?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Lucien stares wide-eyed for a moment, glancing from Doru to his companions as he's quite unsure of what to do. "I don't want to kill anyone,"he says quietly, clenched fists shaking as he realizes that the vampire is actually asking for death. But... is it really possible to save someone who is apparently undead? His eyes stray to Salem, hoping that the strange quiet man would shed some light on that subject.
Religion: 3
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Salem let his eyes linger on Mordred for a moment. Couldn't think of a world where he could think what the vampire was doing was right? Of course not. He knew that. He laid a hand on the center of his chest and sighed. For now it was best to not talk about it. He didn't feel like explaining himself or his thinking on it. The way they made it sound was... His thoughts came to an abrupt stop as he heard the priest speak. It wasn't time to think about this was it?
Being in the church and hearing everyone's different thoughts definitely made him feel confused and conflicted. He glanced briefly towards Ireena. Was she holding Lucien's hand? Oh great. He would just forget about that for now. His eyes soon moved to the priest as he put whatever thoughts and feelings he had a side. He had to for now. He didn't know this priest at all. He seemed distraught though. He had lost his son right? That was hard to imagine. Or maybe it wasn't. He had a feeling he knew how his own father would react if he had died.
When things frightened him and he didn't think he could fight back his father was the one person he could count on. He adored his father. He didn't know what he would do without him. Losing him would... Kill him. Maybe it was a similar feeling. This priest had given up hadn't he? It was a sad sight. He looked around the place with a flicker of his eyes. He didn't normally just enter churches. There was only one place he actually stepped in that was like this, but it wasn't completely in shambles yet and was still beautiful. This place... It held no real beauty. Maybe it was because he wasn't much into religion.
"We would like to help you."
If they even were able to help him.
Ravna gives Parpol a small parting smile just as she enters the door, however that smile is short lived. She glances at both Ireena and Mordred with a neutral expression before proceeding. Seems both these siblings have a bit of an issue with blaming themselves for things they cannot control. Though Mordred suffers from that problem far worse than his sister. She had figured Mordred would respond with a comment like that. Normally she'd try to tell him again that yes, he may have spoken to the hearts of those poor souls, and he does bear some responsibility, but it was still their decision and it is not something he need dwell on. However, she feels he will come to learn that in time, and right now she has other matters to attend. She barely hears the brother and sister's last few comments about her looks, vampires, and forcing ideals. Right now she's to focused on the priest.
Her eyes narrow at the man's response to her words, and she clenches her fists at seeing the missing holy symbol. A trick by the vampire? What is that supposed to mean. This is a church, unless it was a church built for the devil, the devil should have no hold here....unless of course he was invited in. "Trick by the vampire?" She says through gritted teeth, "Are you saying he has weaseled his way into these walls? Or did you allow him to do so?" Her voice slowly turns from angry to solemn, "The light will never leave Barovia, so long as people like these exist." She waves a hand, gesturing to her companions. "No, you are the one who has lost your light." She fixes the man with her red gaze, "It will take more then vampires and devils to dowse my light. It is my duty to bring light to the darkest places, and I will not abandon that duty." She pauses. "Despite what you may believe, no one is beyond help so long as there is life in their lungs. Yes, your son and your friend are gone, but will you let their light fade with them? Now.... what do you mean by 'It'?"
Donavich flinches and looks upon Daestra for a moment and his words
Ravna sounds unsure by trick of the vampire in her words. Donavich can see something familiar in her eyes before pondering back to Daestra.
"Allow him..? Ahh.. you too underestimate darkness in Barovia.. like me... I was a fool to believe in such things... The vampire owns the land.. and has for some time. It's Lord both in title and in name.. I thought at least it being a church! The church... does not slow him down. They are false truths.. He can enter here.. Or any home for that matter."
Ireena uncomfortably shifts clasping a hand on her own neck.
"I-It's true... while his spawn and wives need to be invited.. He does not.. I did not know however that even churches were not safe. "
Donavich looks to Ravna almost expecting her to get it now.
Do you see now? These walls? Our light does nothing but bring forth pain.. it's an illusion of safety and we were fools to believe in it."
His shoulders slump almost feeling that answering Ravna's question pointless now that she knows the idea of safety is truly lost and it may be best to instead abandon hope. Except... Salem and Daestra only continue to encourage with soft words and a question of aid. Donavich stares at Salem.. unsure for a moment but seeing an outsider like Daestra.
"You are not like Mordred.. Nor Salem.. Nor Ireena.. Nor the paladin with clouded eyes of anger and exhaustion. Her smile is gone.. her elf friend is eternally nervous.. This land steals you're smile it is why her and Mordred share that same.. hollow expression I'm afraid. Yet.. you have a light.. a softness a lightness to the way you speak.. I had not believed her's cold expression of light.. Only hollow attempts to give herself peace. Her face does not portray light and yet if you all stand together... even after knowing our villages fate... Perhaps..."
Than even Lucian as shy as he is.. Had offered to help. Donavich blinks and looks rather shocked by this. Ireena grips Lucians hand tighter and smiles seeing him offer her some reassurance. Despite her playful attitude it was clear.. She needed it. Her smile was sincere and it almost made Donavich stumble a bit. Mordred stood beside Ravna unhappy to hear that she and him could be hollow.
"I grew up looking up to you Donavich and I know how I appear. I do still.. feel I am but a man. She is but a woman, I will admit I have not seen her smile... and I know not if she is one of the "colorless" who cannot. Yet.. she has righteous anger that no colorless has ever shown. She... can feel she can.. Wait.."
Mordred looks to where Parpol had gone before, the church doors. Ireena stares at Mordred.. hoping he recalls Ravna's action before. It takes him a moment.. but he does.
"She... smile at.. my friend Parpol. It was small but it was sincere.. her and Salem clashed on ideals but not to despair. Salem can feel.. even offer small smiles like her. Her smile.... it was.. Truth be told it was beautiful. I wish to see Daestra and Lucian smile.. I wish to see my sister smile more.. For real. Parpol still grins at us with childish glee. Ravna is right! She may be brash... she may be a bit pushy... But I can be too.. She isn't wrong! Father.. would have liked her. She has a strong spirit, like him and she says this to help you.. You old fool! Daestra is a stranger and he puts himself here to help. Salem has offered our villages aid before and has helped me to come outside the tavern and my room. Lucian.. has spoken up for our sake. Told Bildrath we must stand together so morninglord above.. Let us stand together Donavich."
Donavich looks to Mordred, it's clear he's never been this forward with Donavich and the surprise on his face shows. Mordred offers than.. a weak smile, his eyes are still piercing and a bit harsh. The smile seems awkward and strange and not exactly appealing but it was sincere to say the very least. Donavich looks at Daestra once more.. Than Salem and Ravna and lost but not least his gaze ends on Lucian.
"Mordred doesn't mean any harm Donavich we just-"
"Even knowing a church or a home cannot save us.. You all wish.. Dare to hope? Hmm... I will tell you than. I was here at the church... when I thought Doru had knocked calling me by name. I answered the door and told him to come in. Doru was here.. With Strahd himself. I had raised my holy symbol told him he was not welcomed here.. But he walked on end. Told Doru.. To devour me and try he did. The man.. laughed as he began to walk away. Saying the village would learn it's lesson and so would "Mordred the Lesser." it was a nightmare.. I had managed with some of my blood and a rag to trick that thing wearing my sons skin into the undercroft here.. A basement of sorts. I locked him in, but he wore the symbol I gave him the day of the invasion. Without my symbol... and that dead thing.. Pretending to be my son.. My miracles cannot work. So.. if we dare to hope I must ask... Go down below and slay what wears his skin. The Devil's trick and reclaim my symbol. Than.. I can give my old friend Kolyana a proper burial. I can give you the keys down below. I must warn.. Even a spawn.. A lesser vampire can be dangerous alone so do be ready. I do not wish to see you're lights.. be snuffed out."
OOC
If I left anyone or anything out let me know! ^^
Daestra listens closely to what Donavich has to say, as he hears of the vampire locked away down below his eyes get wider, he is unsure of himself but wants to help. He looks over to the rest of the group as Donavich finishes “I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be to take on these vampires, I’ve never battled such creatures but I know we must do it to save this village”
He looks to Donavich and Parpol “We will take care of this problem Donavich, we must for everyone’s sake, but I do want to ask you if you have anything that may be of assistance to us during our time down there? Either way we will take this on with great caution.”
Daestra steps aside while gripping the hilt of his sword somewhat nervously but ready to take on what is ahead of him.
Lucian tries not to look too awkward as so many words are exchanged around him... plus he has this girl he just met holding his hand, which he still can't seem to wrap his mind around. Ugh, why does he have to overthink everything? He squeezes his eyes shut for a moment, still aware that his face is burning. Then he opens them and tries to pretend that everything is normal and that everything will be okay and go according to plan... wait... what plan?
He does give a nervous smile, partially because he's internally laughing at his own nervousness (curse his nerves) and partially to try to improve whatever this situation is. However, the smile quickly fades at the mention of a vampire spawn that Donavich wants them to fight. ...Oh dear. Fighting is not something he is super confident doing. Running away. That was something he could do. But now wasn't the time for that. He knew what he signed onto as soon as he started down this path. The time for running was no more, now he needed to face what came head on. No excuses...
He swallowed, hoping that he doesn't look as frightened as he feels. He knows he can hold his own in a fight, but... can he control his nerves too? What if... no, he can't think about that. He'll... he'll make it work. Timidly, he glances back at Ravna, hoping she has something more to say. Maybe her paladin powers can give them an edge against the undead vampire spawn. Then he lets go of Ireena's hand... glancing up at her for a moment before quickly looking away and saying, "Y...yeah. We... we can take care of it." He flexes his fingers, adjusting the wraps on his arms--trying to look like he's getting ready even though it's really just a way to nervously fidget with something.
Her steady glare wavers momentarily when it is confirmed that Strahd can enter wherever he wishes unhindered. Is she really that naive? However, she quickly recovers as she continues to listen to the priest. Hollow. He thinks I am Hollow? And Mordred? She glances at Mordred out of the corner of her eye, then her gaze returns to the priest. His words do not appear to affect her at all, he can think whatever he wants of her and her companions. Thoughts alone can't change the truth. She could say a lot of things in this moment. It's true that she doesn't smile often, but something can be said for that. After all, those who always wear a smile are often only wearing a mask. It is better a smile be rare rather than insincere. However, she remains silent and listens. She takes interest in how Mordred and Ireena respond. While not entirely sure how she should feel about Mordred defending her personality, she is thankful that they are all standing by her. On top of this, it seems his words have swayed Donovich. As the priest tells his tale, her frown deepens. That devil, defiling the dead and torturing their loved ones. Surly there is no one more vile.
When Daestra and even Lucian speak up saying they'd help. She pulls her wing lance from her back, and slams the end of it onto the floor. "Of course, I will help in cleansing this place and reclaiming your holy symbol. I will not stand by while a demon dances around in your son's skin." The anger has not left her eyes, if anything it's only grown. Regardless, her expression morphs into a confident smirk. Yes, even devil spawn are dangerous, but now is not her time to fall. So fearing death is pointless. "Do not fear for us, it will take more than the devil himself to steal my light, and I will not allow for the light of my comrades to fade before mine."
She holds out her hand, expecting the priest to hand over the key.
Salem listened to all of this and he found he was not pleased with what was being said. Wearing his son's skin. That wasn't true. That's not how vampire spawn worked. They weren't demons... That wasn't the thing that truly got him though. It wasn't the thing that really hurt and made him feel confused and uneasy. Strahd... He had made the vampire spawn attack this priest. A sickness churned in his stomach. This was awful. That poor boy had no choice. He had to do as told. He couldn't. He couldn't kill a spawn..? Could he? He was still a person in there even if he couldn't disobey commands. A demon. He looked to Ravna. Is that what she truly thought? No. He couldn't allow this.
He slowly looked towards the priest. If he were to speak... What would that cause and would anyone really believe him? He bit hard on the inside of his cheek. If he didn't say anything would all of them run down with the intent to murder? If he did say something though would they look at him with suspicion. They couldn't know everything about him... If they did... He looked down at the floor. Why had he done this? Was this truly needed? Was this the petty things he was to expect from... Yes... He knew that answer. It was yes... Would he... Be like this too someday?
He defiantly gave a shake of his head and moved his eyes back to the priest. He couldn't let him think this was the truth. There was no monster... No devil in his son's skin. That truly was his son and he was sending him to another death. One that wasn't deserved. He didn't care if he got questioned. All that mattered was that he saved the life of that poor tortured soul down there. A soul that had no choice in its actions any longer.
He would have choice words about this for Strahd. What the hell had he been thinking? Then a glance to Ireena. That's right. He wasn't thinking was he? He never did when she was around. Sighing and knowing he may regret speaking he opened his mouth to do so anyway.
"I understand that Doru is your son. I also know that what happened must have been truly terrifying and you could never imagine your son attacking you, but please I want you to listen to me. Not just to you priest, but everyone here as well. A vampire spawn doesn't get a choice in its actions. He could have been screaming in his head that he didn't want to do this. Once it's given an order it must follow it. It doesn't matter what it wants to do at the time. You may think Doru is a monster... A demon... He's not. That's really him in there. I know it is. That's your son you are talking about wanting killed. Is that really what you want... Is that the kind of father you are? I will help you, but I won't kill him. I won't kill him unless I know for sure he isn't really a person in there anymore. Knowing that he was commanded though... Tells me that he didn't want to attack you willingly."
None of them had any right to believe him, but he lived with spawn. He knew how they worked as he had seen it before. He always thought the control over them was necessary and he never thought they would be commanded like this though. He didn't want to believe it. Honestly he wanted to leave this church and just go home. Turn a blind eye... Maybe he had been doing that for too long though... Had he been letting him be a monster out of love? He laid a hand on the center of his chest. His slow beating heart ached. He hadn't cried since he was a child, but he felt like doing it now. Why was he believing what this priest said about Strahd though?
It wasn't just the priest though was it? It was the state of this village and everything he had been observing the months that he's been coming here. This was just... Too much... Maybe he didn't understand though... Maybe this was the right way, but was turning one's son on them to eat them truly the right thing? No... It wasn't. For once he was opening his eyes to everything that he had witnessed in his life. He should have done this with the first incident. Yet he thought the first incident was deserved, but he had forgotten... Not everyone was a bad person... Innocence probably had perished then.
No matter what he thought though he loved him and wished to just turn away from all of this as if none of it ever happened.
Donavich looks to Daestra and thinks for a moment.
"Had I my magic.. I could have bolstered you.. I don't have anything useful I am afraid."
Ireena releases Lucians hand as well and tries to give a reassuring nod as he prepares himself.
The priest had lowered his head thanking Ravna for her offer.
"Thank you.. thank you.. I know not what to say you truly have a kind.. and living heart we are all not dead inside.. Not yet."
Donavich instructs them to the room it would be toward the undercroft.
fAn old desk and chair stand against the south wall, a wooden holy symbol mounted above them—a sunburst. A ten-foot-long iron rod attached to the north wall stands bare, suggesting a tapestry once hung there. Against the far wall stands a wooden cabinet with four tall doors. This appears to be an office of sorts.
Than Salem had begun to spoke lost in his thoughts. Mordred looks confused but Ireena.. Ireena gives a resonating nod it seems that... This is how she feels deep down. Mordred is torn... he looks to Ravna than Salem.
"The light to burn evil.. The light to save my best friend... I don't know. Aren't I being selfish? By wanting more?"
"No! Salem's right we don't have to kill.. Right?"
Donavich looks rather sullen.
"How do you know so much? Of Spawn? The children don't ask you... enough questions perhaps. Still.. if you can save what is or was my son.. I may accept that.. if you are certain he is no danger. But do not hesitate as it is more likely he is the demon in my sons skin. I want to be the father that free's my son's body untainted. Even if I seem the monster for it, but I will not stand in you're way ser Salem as the I have already given the keys to the undercroft."
OOC
Parpol has left earlier I believe. If I am wrong though do feel free to correct me ^^
If I missed anything let me know!
Daestra walks up to Salem “I don’t believe any of us want to kill whatever is down there, but if necessary I won’t hold back. If you believe there is something left to save we can try for the sake of Donavich.”
He stands there pondering to himself for a moment, could Donavich’s son still be in there? I don’t personally understand much of these Vampires but as a guardsman I know that sometimes sacrifice is necessary for the greater good should it come down to it. Let’s hope for the sake of Donavich and Salem that we don’t need to end him.
He looks to the group “Shall we head down? I feel as though if I stand here much longer I may talk myself out of going down there.” He says rather hesitantly.
"You... really believe that?" Lucian asks Salem. The question sounds hopeful rather than judgmental, and there is a measure of desperation in his large pale eyes.
After a moment he looks down, fidgeting with his pocket watch before saying, "L...let's go." In response to Daestra's question of whether or not they should head down. The longer they wait the less he wants to jump into a fight too.
Salem's words have peaked his interest. At first he'd found the quiet stranger a little intimidating... well, he finds everyone a little intimidating most of the time, but still... he wasn't sure what to make of him. Now he wonders if maybe they could get along? Surely if he believes that a vampire spawn could still be human, that there could be hope for others who are suffering under curses that pit them against those they care about.
Even with his own response to head down to fight Doru, he doesn't make a move to enter until someone else (preferably Ravna) goes first.
Ravna turns to Salem as he speaks his thoughts, her eyes linger on him with a searching gaze for a moment after he finishes. He really thinks vampire spawn can be saved? That there is still at least a fragment of the person's soul left within them? If that is the case, and they are stuck in an undying body without control over their own actions, well that just seems like hell to her. That just makes them a puppet on Strahd's strings, a living toy for the devil to torture for eternity....well until he's taken down that is.
Eventually, she responds, she doesn't take her eyes off of Salem, but she's addressing everyone. "If there is anything left to save in Doru, then we will save it. We can try to reason with him, but if saving him means ending his torment, then that is what I'm prepared to do. If what he has become is a puppet for the devil, a puppet aware of and able to regret it's actions and unable to break free of the puppet-master's control, then freeing him of his bindings, and sending him into the Morning Lord's embrace is what must be done."
Yes, sometimes death is the ultimate release. If she were in Doru's shoes, it would be what she'd want for herself as well. It is better to die free than to live a slave after all. Taking the key, she strides over to the cellar door. Deep down, she does hope for a way to redeem souls trapped by Strahd, to let them regain their lives, but she cannot let that kind of thinking cloud her judgment. Every pawn controlled by Straud is yet another tool he can use to cause suffering, ending their lives is usually best for everyone around.
Once everyone is ready, she will open the undercroft and enter.
Salem looked quietly towards Lucien and tilted his head slightly. The elf was so quiet he hadn't expected him to speak to him. He was kind of the same way himself though. He rather actually stay to himself, but it seemed like this group was really bringing out his more talkative side. Was that a good thing though? So far he felt like he only wanted to pick fights with them.
"I don't just believe it. I know it. Not all of them are lost to us..."
He would stand behind this. He knew vampire spawn... One in particular came to his mind now and his frown grew. Had he been spurning him when he had only been looking for some kind of happiness in that dark place. He gave a slight shake of his head. He couldn't think about that right now. He needed to head down there and prove to them that Doru wasn't lost.
Not all vampire spawns were the same though... He understood that. Some of them enjoyed their new life, but if Doru was commanded... He doubted he enjoyed his life. He prepared himself to head down. He didn't know if he could actually end the life of this spawn though. It was against everything he knew...
As they descend into the undercroft the candlelight from the chapel above slips through the cracks, but there is no sign of any creature in the gloom.
A young man's voice, strained and tired, echoes from the darkness above.
"You've come to kill me, haven't you?"
From the darkness of the cross beams above, a figure unfurls itself like a moth from it's cocoon, moving like a spider as it lowers itself slowly to the ground. As it comes into the faint light, the shadow resolves into the form of a young man, some of his youthful features were familiar to Donnavich. Save for his dark red hair, piercing eyes and gaunt skin.
His skin is ghostly pale, with dirt and grime streaked across his face. His clothes are ripped and worn yet.. they appear rather noble almost as if they were from Ravenloft itself. His hair is an unkempt mess of tangles and knots. His eyes are bloodshot, his gaze darting from face to face. A leather cord hands around his neck, holding a bloodstained bronze sunburst that rest against his chest. He swallows and licks his lips and a pair of pointed fangs poke through. He looks to Mordred.. Than Ireena as they watch in shock.
"If you want to kill me... I won't fight you.
His voice cracks as he looks up holding his symbol tightly.
"I have one request... and if I fail.. I don't want Ireena or Mordred to see me fail...
I added Doru's picture to the Owlbear but if ya wanna see ya can ^^
Daestra yells over to Doru “Doru we don’t want to kill you! Your father still cares about you and we want to help! I won’t say it’s easy coming down here to try and reason with a vampiric spawn but we refuse to not try and help you if we can, Strahd will pay for what he has done!”
Daestra looks to Salem “You seem to know more about these things than anyone in the group currently, what can we do?”
Daestra thinks to himself briefly, Can we strip his son from this thing? Or is this his son now? I don’t know but I’m still skeptical of being able to save him from what he has become, hopefully he can listen to reason and isn’t too far gone.
OOC
Even Salem would have to roll religion or arcana.
I will allow anyone to roll a DC 15 religion or arcana but I will allow Salem advantage for an aspect of his back.
For Ravna if she chooses religion over arcana I will allow advantage on the roll as well.
Ravna stands in silence at the head of the group for a while. Doru's immediate surrender, has caught her a bit off guard. However, this could easily be just a ploy by the puppetmaster. Despite her hesitation, she stands firm, though there is a glint of sadness in here eyes. Eyes, that turn to Salem after lingering on the sorry creature before them. Doru seemed to wish for death before Ireena had planted the seed of hope in him. If Ravna had been dealing with this alone, she would have ended his suffering in an instant, confident that she had been doing the right thing. However, she doesn't wish to extinguish hope in anyone. If Salem is right, and those cursed to become pawns for the devil can be saved....well, this would be a game changer. A new hope could be spread across the land, a light to say that no one is truly lost. However, she refrains from responding at the moment. She dares not ignite that hope to brightly within her until there is proof that it would not be a false hope. So, she continues to eye Salem, waiting for his response.
Religion: 20
(Just in case it changes, I rolled a 21 on Religion lol)
OOC
For her religion check! She knows that while the Morninglord believes death to be the end for undead. There is discussion of theory, wish magic of course can revert them but most Barovians don't even believe such a thing exist.
An angels power may also prove useful in a divine mirace or intervention.
Another popular theory though unsure is that they are slain and somehow revived.. Though no one is sure if such magic works on the undead.
As for peaceful spawn and vampires? Only rumblings and stories of such things.
The best thing to do.. one doctor, a Cleric even she recalls one the high priest of Vallaki spoke of.
Van Rickten is an expert on all things vampires.
The man and his writings would surely have the sorta answers, and may even give an edge in the fight against Strahd of course. If such a man exist.. a vampire hunter. He would surely come for Strahd eventually.. Wouldn't he?
Lucien stares wide-eyed for a moment, glancing from Doru to his companions as he's quite unsure of what to do. "I don't want to kill anyone," he says quietly, clenched fists shaking as he realizes that the vampire is actually asking for death. But... is it really possible to save someone who is apparently undead? His eyes stray to Salem, hoping that the strange quiet man would shed some light on that subject.
Religion: 3