Daestra while digging looks to Lucian “Is this not how the dead pass on to their final resting place here? This is a very shocking scene to someone like myself but I imagined this was normal.”
Daestra’s heart breaks for Ireena as she is having such a hard time with letting go of her father for the final time. It’s an unfortunate moment but also one of beauty to know that he is moving on to a better life among the dead. He returns to digging to finish the job.
Despite her better judgement, Ravna's gaze wander over the poor souls trapped in this march. Then she feels the sharp claws of grief rake against her heart when her gaze lands on the face of her own father. Her lips tighten at the sight of him. She wishes she hadn't looked. She hadn't seen him since that fateful day many years ago, but her memory of them man she knew from her childhood, even broken and bloodied was far better than this new image. She closes her eyes, she feels Ireena's pain. Though she may not show it outwardly, she cannot deny the aching in her chest. She turns her gaze back to Ireena's face, she doesn't wish to look at the spirits any longer for fear of seeing any other loved ones.
"Ireena." She says quietly, "No, it isn't fair, but we cannot pull our loved ones from this fate with will alone. If that were possible, I would have done so long ago."She sighs, "Do not think of this as leaving him. You are not leaving him. You are just letting him go for a while. We cannot help him now, but I believe...once Strahd is ended we can set them all free."
Lucian looks at Daestra with wide eyes, "Uh... um... n... no... I don't... I don't think so..." He swallows, glancing at the marching ghosts. There are no dusk elves among them. For a moment he finds relief. Yet then his mind wanders to what the implications of that are. Where are the souls of his kin? Did they somehow escape this fate? Or did they end up somewhere worse?
He tightens his grip on the shovel, pulling it close to him as if it would provide some sort of protection. "In this place, the dead don't rest. Our souls are trapped here. In this valley. At least..."He swallows again, eyes turning upward to look at Daestra, "At least th...that's what I've been told. I've always h...hoped it was not true b...but... seeing this in person..." He averts his eyes, shivering a little and looking down at the grave they were digging, "I'm sorry. S...sorry you got pulled into this place. Now..." He can't bring himself to look at the ghosts or Daestra again, unable to finish his sentence as the souls of once-adventures intermixed with natives march towards Ravenloft. This is a fate no one deserves. Now whatever peace Daestra might have found in death outside of this Valley is lost to him. Lucien can only imagine what that must feel like... if Daestra even realizes the implications of Lucian's stuttering explanation.
His eyes shoot up again however when Ravna says she believes this will stop if they stop Strahd. He nods, trying to find his resolve again as they carry on with the funeral. This will stop. It has to. ...and maybe he'll find out where the souls of his ancestors went too. That is a scary thought... what if... what if they really are lost forever? What if he dies before they complete this mission? What if... though, perhaps he won't be welcome in that afterlife either?
Salem watches the dead walk towards the castle. His home. He slowly closes his eyes. He hadn’t seen this before. All these people marching their way endlessly to the person who had taken their lives… It was hard to look at and it made his stomach turn.
He longed to be back home and to forget everything he was seeing. Slowly he opened his eyes. A sadness reflecting in those green depths. How could his father keep all this from him? What would his excuse be this time? What would he lie to him and say?
At some point the lies had to stop didn’t they? He bit the inside of his cheek. His fangs would be a reminder that he wasn’t normal and he wondered if he even had a right to feel bad. He hadn’t done this though. He hadn’t taken these lives.
His hands had remained clean… At least for now they had. Would he end up just like this… Is this what his fate was? To look down from the castle at this army of undead..? He quickly shook his head. No. Salem knew he had never attacked or fought without good reason.
He would never harm someone that didn’t deserve it and even then… He didn’t like to spill blood. Death was pointless to him. People could learn… His father though… Could he have learned? Could he have been better. All of this hurt, but not as much as it hurt Ireena and Mordred.
How could they even still stand him? It’s no wonder it could have been a fight in the cellar… If he died would they have been getting rid of another monster before it got a chance to change… He looked up at Ravenloft. He wouldn’t be like his father. If love is what had done this… Then at least he knew what to stay away from. He didn’t want that obsession.
"It's not.. a peaceful after life I'm afraid.. but it's what happens to those here. Lucians right.. it's our fate here in the valley."
Ireena looks to Ravan with a head tilt as tears rush down her eyes.
"You would have.. long ago... Did you.. Lose someone too?"
Ireena wipes her face but hugs into Ravna and softly weeps as she clings to the much more built woman.
Mordred saw Salem zone off, he grabbed his friends hand as he began to head back. Ireena leaning her head against Ravna's shoulder.
A weary-looking mansion squats behind a rusting iron fence. The iron gates are twisted and torn. The right gate lies cast aside, while the left swings lazily in the wind. The stuttering squeal and clang of the gate repeats with mindless precision. Weeds choke the grounds and press with menace upon the house itself. Yet, against the walls, the growth has been tramped down to create a path all about the domain. Heavy claw markings have stripped the once-beautiful finish of the walls. Great black marks tell of the fires that have assailed the mansion. Not a pane nor a shard of glass stands in any window. All the windows are barred with planks, each one marked with stains of evil omen.
The gate creaked open as Mordred pressed against it opening the manor doors (with keys)
The interior of the mansion is well furnished, yet the fixtures show signs of great wear. Noticeable oddities are the boarded-up windows and the presence of holy symbols in every room.
"Here we are.. we have guest rooms, and please make yourselves at home any food or supplies books or symbols are at you're disposal. If you anything you need let me know."
OOC For Daestra's player need the Discord link again?
Lucian stays quiet through the rest of the funeral, not sure what to say or do once the coffin is in the ground. His heart aches, both for the siblings and for the rest of the Valley. And for himself too, as selfish as that may be.
When Mordred leads them into the Manor, Lucian is once more struck by its size and... condition. He's never actually stayed in a house before, much less a guest room or a manor. The thought of actually sleeping in a bed for the first time, silly as it may be, is enough to at least briefly wash away some of the stress from earlier.
"Th...Thanks,"he says quickly, glancing around. Food would be nice. They haven't eaten since they got here... but in spite of the offer Lucian feels awkward asking. So he stays in awkward silence as he waits for the others to pipe up.
Daestra feels his heart drop when Lucian and Mordred tell him where these people are really headed. He can’t believe how awful death is in this valley, and now wants to reach Strahd even quicker to end this pain and suffering that this valley has to go through.
As they head back to the Manor for the night Mordred tells them they’re free to help themselves to whatever they need.
Daestra replies “I greatly appreciate the kindness towards us all Mordred, some food would be great, its been a long day so that sounds wonderful, thank you”
OOC
Yes I do need the link again, thank you! Oh also since you have my number message me when you send it cause I’m bad about checking the other forum post before the link expires lol
Ahh of course I can get something started up, it'll be maybe an hour at most but I hope you'll enjoy it. Feel free to settle in any room you want on the first or second floor.
Ravna freezes momentarily in shock when Ireena suddenly latches onto her. However, she does put an arm around the smaller woman, still trying her best not to search the faces of the dead. She already knows what she would find. "Yes." She says quietly.
She doesn't elaborate. She doesn't feel she needs to. Not to mention simply stating it in this moment would revive even more memories she doesn't wish to revisit. She closes her eyes, she can't imagine anyone in this land hasn't gone through something similar. Death is inevitable, whether by natural cause or by the hand of the demons that lurk in this land. Either way loosing someone is hard, no point in dwelling on her own griefs for there are many out there who have it worse. She opens her eyes again. This death march, it feels like just another way to beat down the citizen's will to fight, a way to shove their grief in their faces. She clenches her left fist, this will be ended someday. Someday, the dead will truly be able to rest in peace.
She walks in silence as the group returns to the manor. Such a sad sight. Once inside she dips her head to Mordred, "I thank you again for the lodging. And yes, food would be much appreciated. It has been some time since Lucian or I have eaten."
Salem let Mordred lead him. He didn't think he had stayed with them before. He was used to going home when he was done here in the village, but part of his was glad he wasn't going home and he was just spending the night here. He didn't know what he would have said to anyone at the castle. Though there was someone he wouldn't have minded on running into at the castle was Escher. He felt that he needed to talk with him. To apologize for the way his father was treating him and for always hiding away from him. His eyes slowly moved to Ireena. She was going through the same thing wasn't she? It suddenly made sense why they didn't exactly agree with him when he had said that his father might have been trying to do what was best for her. He frowned and looked away from her.
Though food sounded good... He was going to have to watch himself. Food would at least satisfy one hunger, but it wouldn't satisfy the other. He wouldn't attack people though. He would go out and hunt and wolves would feed him. It wasn't great and he was a bit picky when it came to blood, but he refused to hurt anyone. Biting a person wasn't something he had ever had to do. Blood was usually offered in crystal glasses. That wasn't something that was going to be offered to him here. That was fine.
He walked quietly away from the group and sighed softly. He would figure out what room to sleep in.
Ireena shows them bedrooms on the second floor, as Mordred gets to cooking.
In the first bedroom Ireena shows them, Daestra Ravna and Lucian as well as Salem notice a book. "Van" is on the spine. It was Van Rickten's guide to.... It seemed like it was collecting dust and perhaps it was even misplaced.
It wasn't much time before Mordred called from downstairs.
"Food's ready! It's simply beef and broth with water I'm afraid. I hope that will suffice my friends!"
Ireena smiled toward the party, if they head downstairs Ireena sneaks up on Ravna and holds her hand softly with a light smile.
"Thank you, I'm.. kinda embarrassed I just squished into you like that... But I was very grateful, you seem cold on the outside.. But you're warm and you having you close was very comforting."
As the table is prepped Mordred stretches a bit looking to them his hands twitching a bit.
"Daestra, I am curious.. of you're life before here and what sorta things you did and fought. Actually.. I trust you're all capable but I am curious. What can you all do? We could share around the table and is sufficient for me. I wonder if I really even know all of Salem's tricks up his sleeve heh.. Or we could get our mind off the gloom and spar one another out back. I would not blame anyone for not being in the mood."
Ireena shakes her head
He acts calm but he's getting antsy, I for one think sharing our skills should be enough. We'll see them tomorrow on the road right? Than again if anyone else is like my brother here and enjoys a fight I won't stop you. I know Mordred likes to say how terrible he is at swordplay but in the whole village only Parrywhimple's ever beaten him."
"He doesn't seem it.. But parrywhimp-- Parpol is the most formidable warrior here. He hasn't only beaten me, but I've never once gotten the best of him and he even hunts alone often."
"He came back with a pack of Direwolves once, they were all poorly skinned and handled but... He killed them all by himself. He'd be able to help the village more but his uncle is very greedy about his Nephew's talents and charges a lot for them."
Lucian follows closely behind Ireena, childlike curiosity and excitement building up inside him as they look at the rooms. He's never been in a building like this. Light, there haven't been many buildings he's been in at all. Now they're letting him pick a guest room? AND they're giving him free food? This is like some sort of dream.
Simple beef and broth or not, to an urchin like Lucian that sounds like a feast. He happily plops down at the table, momentarily forgetting his timidness as he looks at the food with wide eyes. Then he remembers that this isn't a dream, stiffens abruptly, and looks around with embarrassment. "Th...thanks for the food!" he stammers, giving Mordred a shaky smile. "It looks and smells amazing!"
In spite of his usual impulse to start scarfing immediately, he forces himself to wait while the others take their seats and portion of the meal. However, as soon as everyone has taken their share he starts shoveling the stew into his mouth with the excitement of someone who's unaccustomed to having an adequate meal. Realizing his rudeness and lack of proper etiquette , he shrinks into his seat for a moment and glances around the table as if expecting some sort of ridicule. When no such thing comes, he still attempts to slow down and actually enjoy the meal, seems how he doesn't actually get to taste his food very often. Of course, if there are leftovers for the taking, he's never been one to turn down free food. Usually he'd save some if that were an option, but since this isn't something he could just tuck away and keep in a sack, he'll settle for eating it. In spite of his small size he can pack away a lot of food if there is food available.
As conversation starts up around the table, Lucian listens tentatively as Mordred asks Daestra about what kinds of things he's faced in battle. Lucian really wasn't curious about that though, he'd rather Daestra talk about what the outside world is actually like. Not the dangers, just the good things. What are the people like? Are the rulers kind? What are the animals like outside? What does the food taste like and what kinds of food are available? What about the strange races? Especially the elves, Lucian never thought he'd actually meet an elf that isn't a dusk elf. But, right now his mouth is full so he doesn't have time to ask before Mordred asks what everyone can do... in a fight.
He swallows, averting his eyes and shifting uncomfortably in his seat, only to look up again when Ireena starts talking about Mordred dueling and that Parpol fellow. Something about this conversation, in spite of its lightheartedness, sends a shiver down his spine. Specifically the comment about Parpol's feat concerning the dire wolves. He's always been too sensitive to violence, and it's enough to make him lose his appetite for a little while. His instincts scream danger, even though he is as safe as he can be inside this manor, surrounded by good people.
He sets his utensils down and puts his hands in his lap... he's sitting crosslegged in the chair as if unused to sitting on anything other than the ground... and looks down at the bowl in front of him with a troubled and nervous expression. After a few moments of blank staring and some fidgeting, he shakes his head and tries to force his more cheery mood back into existence. He has only minor success in that, and his response is quiet and shaky, "I... don't like fighting. M...most of the time... uh... when I can..I avoid it at all costs honestly."He tries and fails to meet the eyes of those around him. "I can fight if needed, but I'd rather run then risk..."He swallows, realizing how foolish and cowardly this sounds. Why did he feel the need to speak up at all? There is a very good reason he doesn't like violence. But he just can't bring himself to voice it. What would they think of him then? He fiddles with his pocket watch for a moment before saying, "I could never afford good weapons. I have some knives on me and I can use them but... I'm better with my fists. It's... all I've really had training for. Outside of fighting I... I'm pretty good at getting around unnoticed I g...guess."Mostly, he's just good at getting away. That's what he's always been trained to do, both by nature and by mentor. The best fights are the ones you never have to engage in.
Once he's shared his piece, he slowly resumes eating, though with less vigor than before. Needless to say, he's not interested in sparing. Mordred would probably destroy him anyways...
Ravna nods at the first bedroom Ireena shows, "This will do."She says. She has never been picky, especially with temporary things. She even accepts the room before noticing the dust covered book. As soon as she reads the title, she moves over to pick it up and wipe of the dust. After reading the title, she will set it on the bedside cabinet. It would be better to read something like that after a meal.
Once everyone has chosen rooms she leads the way back down the stairs at Mordred's call. Despite hearing Ireena coming, she is still slightly caught off guard when the smaller woman grabs her hand. Ireena seemed to have a habit of doing that. Not that her surprise shows by any body language other than a small pause in her step. There is a slight pause before the black-clad woman replies to her as well, it seems she needs that pause to figure out how to respond to Ireena. After the pause she says, "I'm glad to hear my presence offers you peace. I hope I can continue to provide peace, comfort and protection to you during our travels."
She accepts the meal graciously, offering a prayer to the Morninglord before slowly consuming her meal. She takes only what she needs, and does not react to Lucian's large appetite. She'd grown somewhat accustomed to it over the time they took to travel to Barovia.
"There is wisdom in knowing when to fight and when to flee. I see nothing wrong with your aversion to violence." She nods to the young elf as she says this. Lucian is a strange one. He seems like a naive coward, and yet despite his inherent urge to flee at any sign of danger, he has more fire within him than the majority of this realms citizens.
Then she turns to Mordred, "Do be completely honest, I have yet to confront a truly challenging opponent. Though I attribute that to my lack of experience outside of Vallaki. I have spent a great deal of my life simply studying the history of this realm's heroes and learning from the church of the Morninglord. Despite this I am confident in my combat skills." She gives Mordred a small smile, "I would welcome a chance to test them against a seasoned swordsman, and I too would like to see what you are capable of."
As the group walks around looking through the Manor determining their rooms for the night Daestra is mostly just in awe of how run down the place is, it definitely could use some work for sure, but he tries not to judge too much as he has not known Ireena or Mordred for very long. Daestra will take whatever room is leftover, he is not very picky when it comes to accommodations. As he is looking around upstairs Mordred calls upstairs to let everyone know that the food has been finished, Beef and Broth while not anything spectacular will certainly do, can’t sleep on an empty stomach of course so he heads down with the rest of the group.
As they are all sitting at the table Mordred asks Daestra of his skills and what the world outside is really like. Daestra ponders for a second about what he can really say about the outside world “Well I work or should say worked as a town guard in my village for the last few years, our village has been in a period of peace now for quite some time so I made the decision that now would be the right time to take a break and see the vast countryside surrounding me. I always wanted to travel the world and I believed this might be the only time that I could. My skills vary greatly, while I may not be great with a sword I am one of the best archers in my post, I can nail most targets from pretty far out, its honestly my greatest strength as I don’t have many others. As for the world itself? Well.. its vastly different from what I’ve experienced here, there is a real sense of beauty in the nature surrounding my little town, lots of different species of animals freely roam throughout the hills and valley. The people for the first time in a long time are honestly living happy lives, the relationship between our king and the neighboring kingdom has been stressed for many years at times even deadly as conflicts have broken out, but a couple years ago the neighboring king passed on and the queen took his place on the throne. She immediately wanted to come to an agreement and end the conflict, we were happy to oblige and things have been great ever since. I definitely miss the place, I sure wish all of you could see how great it really was, but I’m not even sure where we are in the grand scheme of worlds, this is honestly such a strange experience for someone like myself.”
He finishes his Beef and Broth and thanks Mordred for fixing it for them all, he agrees to do some training if everyone else wants to as he is pretty bad with a sword and could use some assistance.
Salem followed Ireena like the others and settled in one of the rooms that she offered. Once called down because the food was done he made his way down the steps. The food's simplicity didn't seem to matter to him much. He knew his father probably wouldn't have been caught eating anything like this. Which made him think even more about why he was interested in someone like Ireena. Not that there was anything wrong with her of course. He gave a shake of his head and decided that it wasn't worth talking about. He started to eat while listening quietly at the talk around the table. He looked towards Mordred and tilted his head slightly. Ah of course he was interested in talking about fighting. This little vampling only fought when he felt that he needed to though and only when someone needed his help. He didn't like being pushed into a corner.
Yet even when he had been down in the cellar of the church and scared he had thought only to run. Ah how disappointed his father would have been. Not that it mattered he was disappointing in several ways. He listened as Daestra spoke about the outside world. It sounded a lot better than here... Well he didn't know if he would truly like the sunshine of the world outside of Barovia. He didn't even really like the sun here... Though the sun here... Was false. The sun didn't harm him or anything he just thought it was too bright.
"I think I am more inclined to study than fight... I don't really like fighting. I will to protect people, but I do like to try and avoid it."
Mordred smiles looking to Lucian as he thanks him for the food.
"Of course, it's the least I could do."
Mordred frowns a bit as Lucian speaks.
"I'm sure you are quiet the warrior deep down. I myself.. I've always enjoyed a friendly spar.. But fighting for you're life.. Is another story. Though it is frustrating when Parpol defeats me so handily and I hardly ever get close. Still.. I think deep down you got a fire Lucian."
Ireena sits next to Ravna and smiles as they eat. Ireena looks to Ravna and notes
"When I was showing you you're room, I saw you noticed one of fathers old books which one was it again?"
Ireena was smiling ear to ear, Ravna's words before of peace and comfort had left the woman practically glowing. It was clear that making these sorts of friendships were.. Rare for her. She nods agreeing with Ravna and Lucian.
"Yeah Mordred sometimes ya gotta run! I swear.. He told me he was gonna shove me into that church in Vallaki and than go fight Strahd himself! Don't ever let Mordred decide if we should run or fight he'll try and fight everything."
Mordred looks to Ravna and Lucian and hangs his head down a bit embarrassed.
Mordred clears his throat as he looks to Ravna.
"I didn't expect... I.. Yes I'd like a chance to spar with you as well. With wooden weapons of course or at least the blunt side of our current weapons. We could have a bout in the backyard."
Mordred looks to Daestra and Ireena looks his way. Her eyes almost sparkle with awe in hearing of the outside world. Ireena looks to Daestra with a wide grin.
"You gotta show me you're kingdom one day! And you're archery!!"
Mordred looks to Daestra and nods.
"You could use you're bow or you're blade if you prefer. I know it sounds cocky but.. I'd like to fight you both at once. I don't mind losing.. I am more so curious to how we all fight and you can see what I am capable of on the road. However if that does not sit well with you I understand."
Mordred looks to Salem with a slight frown.
"Ahh I am surprised you always seem so brave when hunting with me. Salem.. I wanted to say... I'm sorry for what I said in the cellar. That I thought you were... Playing games. I know you're my friend no matter what. Can I ask Salem.. If not fighting.. What do you enjoy doing? You as well Lucian what do you two enjoy doing in you're spare time?"
Lucian shakes his head slightly when Mordred says he thinks he's got fire in him. The only fire he has is one that needs to be put out.... well, he does want to help take down Strahd. He'd like to see the outside world and... well, not face whatever afterlife the dusk elves go to here. Assuming he'll even go there all things considered.
He frowns when Mordred asks what he enjoys doing. What does he enjoy doing? "Oh... um... I guess I like eating..."He ducks his head, what a stupid response! "I mean... I spend a lot of time in the woods, not the deep woods but... well I spend a lot of time looking for food and uh... walking? I guess?" Since dusk elves aren't allowed in Vallaki, it isn't like he gets a lot of chances to go see things... music, or anything of the sort. He spends a lot of time meditating, but he can't really say he enjoys that. ... why is this such a hard question to answer? "I... uh... well I like talking to Kasimir... when I can. And I like meeting nice people." He sinks down in his chair, realizing that he's talking circles now. Good grief, he really doesn't have any hobbies. "I like animals. Watching them in the forest and stuff..."If he isn't with Kasimir, then most of his time was just spent trying to survive. Clearly he doesn't really do a lot of things for the sake of enjoyment.
Ravna looks over at Ireena, "It was titled Van Richten's Guide to Vampires...I believe." She hadn't really looked at the title to confirm it, but that's what she thought it said.
She smiles slightly at the woman's next comment. It sounds like Mordred is a good brother.
She listens to Daestra explain his skillset. He seems to be a humble one. She has a feeling his skills are far better than he is letting on. It's a shame that he has become trapped in this place...though if she has it her way, he won't be stuck here for long.
Her gaze lingers on Salem for a few moments. His answer was very similar to Lucian's. If his words about protecting people are true, then he will be an incredibly valuable ally.
She turns back to Mordred, "I do not object to your request. If you think you can handle us both, then so be it."
(*facepalm* I knew that lol. Every time I see Van Ricktens name I think of the sourcebook XD. My brain automatically inserted it haha. I have fixed it so Ravna doesn't sound like an idiot. Thanks for correcting me XD)
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Daestra while digging looks to Lucian “Is this not how the dead pass on to their final resting place here? This is a very shocking scene to someone like myself but I imagined this was normal.”
Daestra’s heart breaks for Ireena as she is having such a hard time with letting go of her father for the final time. It’s an unfortunate moment but also one of beauty to know that he is moving on to a better life among the dead. He returns to digging to finish the job.
Despite her better judgement, Ravna's gaze wander over the poor souls trapped in this march. Then she feels the sharp claws of grief rake against her heart when her gaze lands on the face of her own father. Her lips tighten at the sight of him. She wishes she hadn't looked. She hadn't seen him since that fateful day many years ago, but her memory of them man she knew from her childhood, even broken and bloodied was far better than this new image. She closes her eyes, she feels Ireena's pain. Though she may not show it outwardly, she cannot deny the aching in her chest. She turns her gaze back to Ireena's face, she doesn't wish to look at the spirits any longer for fear of seeing any other loved ones.
"Ireena." She says quietly, "No, it isn't fair, but we cannot pull our loved ones from this fate with will alone. If that were possible, I would have done so long ago." She sighs, "Do not think of this as leaving him. You are not leaving him. You are just letting him go for a while. We cannot help him now, but I believe...once Strahd is ended we can set them all free."
She nods to Lucian, "I believe so."
Lucian looks at Daestra with wide eyes, "Uh... um... n... no... I don't... I don't think so..." He swallows, glancing at the marching ghosts. There are no dusk elves among them. For a moment he finds relief. Yet then his mind wanders to what the implications of that are. Where are the souls of his kin? Did they somehow escape this fate? Or did they end up somewhere worse?
He tightens his grip on the shovel, pulling it close to him as if it would provide some sort of protection. "In this place, the dead don't rest. Our souls are trapped here. In this valley. At least..." He swallows again, eyes turning upward to look at Daestra, "At least th...that's what I've been told. I've always h...hoped it was not true b...but... seeing this in person..." He averts his eyes, shivering a little and looking down at the grave they were digging, "I'm sorry. S...sorry you got pulled into this place. Now..." He can't bring himself to look at the ghosts or Daestra again, unable to finish his sentence as the souls of once-adventures intermixed with natives march towards Ravenloft. This is a fate no one deserves. Now whatever peace Daestra might have found in death outside of this Valley is lost to him. Lucien can only imagine what that must feel like... if Daestra even realizes the implications of Lucian's stuttering explanation.
His eyes shoot up again however when Ravna says she believes this will stop if they stop Strahd. He nods, trying to find his resolve again as they carry on with the funeral. This will stop. It has to. ...and maybe he'll find out where the souls of his ancestors went too. That is a scary thought... what if... what if they really are lost forever? What if he dies before they complete this mission? What if... though, perhaps he won't be welcome in that afterlife either?
His gaze falls again, and he goes quiet.
Salem watches the dead walk towards the castle. His home. He slowly closes his eyes. He hadn’t seen this before. All these people marching their way endlessly to the person who had taken their lives… It was hard to look at and it made his stomach turn.
He longed to be back home and to forget everything he was seeing. Slowly he opened his eyes. A sadness reflecting in those green depths. How could his father keep all this from him? What would his excuse be this time? What would he lie to him and say?
At some point the lies had to stop didn’t they? He bit the inside of his cheek. His fangs would be a reminder that he wasn’t normal and he wondered if he even had a right to feel bad. He hadn’t done this though. He hadn’t taken these lives.
His hands had remained clean… At least for now they had. Would he end up just like this… Is this what his fate was? To look down from the castle at this army of undead..? He quickly shook his head. No. Salem knew he had never attacked or fought without good reason.
He would never harm someone that didn’t deserve it and even then… He didn’t like to spill blood. Death was pointless to him. People could learn… His father though… Could he have learned? Could he have been better. All of this hurt, but not as much as it hurt Ireena and Mordred.
How could they even still stand him? It’s no wonder it could have been a fight in the cellar… If he died would they have been getting rid of another monster before it got a chance to change… He looked up at Ravenloft. He wouldn’t be like his father. If love is what had done this… Then at least he knew what to stay away from. He didn’t want that obsession.
Mordred looked to Daestra and gave a solemn nod
"It's not.. a peaceful after life I'm afraid.. but it's what happens to those here. Lucians right.. it's our fate here in the valley."
Ireena looks to Ravan with a head tilt as tears rush down her eyes.
"You would have.. long ago... Did you.. Lose someone too?"
Ireena wipes her face but hugs into Ravna and softly weeps as she clings to the much more built woman.
Mordred saw Salem zone off, he grabbed his friends hand as he began to head back. Ireena leaning her head against Ravna's shoulder.
A weary-looking mansion squats behind a rusting iron fence. The iron gates are twisted and torn. The right gate lies cast aside, while the left swings lazily in the wind. The stuttering squeal and clang of the gate repeats with mindless precision. Weeds choke the grounds and press with menace upon the house itself. Yet, against the walls, the growth has been tramped down to create a path all about the domain. Heavy claw markings have stripped the once-beautiful finish of the walls. Great black marks tell of the fires that have assailed the mansion. Not a pane nor a shard of glass stands in any window. All the windows are barred with planks, each one marked with stains of evil omen.
The gate creaked open as Mordred pressed against it opening the manor doors (with keys)
The interior of the mansion is well furnished, yet the fixtures show signs of great wear. Noticeable oddities are the boarded-up windows and the presence of holy symbols in every room.
"Here we are.. we have guest rooms, and please make yourselves at home any food or supplies books or symbols are at you're disposal. If you anything you need let me know."
OOC
For Daestra's player need the Discord link again?
Lucian stays quiet through the rest of the funeral, not sure what to say or do once the coffin is in the ground. His heart aches, both for the siblings and for the rest of the Valley. And for himself too, as selfish as that may be.
When Mordred leads them into the Manor, Lucian is once more struck by its size and... condition. He's never actually stayed in a house before, much less a guest room or a manor. The thought of actually sleeping in a bed for the first time, silly as it may be, is enough to at least briefly wash away some of the stress from earlier.
"Th...Thanks," he says quickly, glancing around. Food would be nice. They haven't eaten since they got here... but in spite of the offer Lucian feels awkward asking. So he stays in awkward silence as he waits for the others to pipe up.
Daestra feels his heart drop when Lucian and Mordred tell him where these people are really headed. He can’t believe how awful death is in this valley, and now wants to reach Strahd even quicker to end this pain and suffering that this valley has to go through.
As they head back to the Manor for the night Mordred tells them they’re free to help themselves to whatever they need.
Daestra replies “I greatly appreciate the kindness towards us all Mordred, some food would be great, its been a long day so that sounds wonderful, thank you”
OOC
Yes I do need the link again, thank you! Oh also since you have my number message me when you send it cause I’m bad about checking the other forum post before the link expires lol
Mordred looks to Lucian and Daestra and nods
Ahh of course I can get something started up, it'll be maybe an hour at most but I hope you'll enjoy it. Feel free to settle in any room you want on the first or second floor.
OOC
I'll text ya xD
Ravna freezes momentarily in shock when Ireena suddenly latches onto her. However, she does put an arm around the smaller woman, still trying her best not to search the faces of the dead. She already knows what she would find. "Yes." She says quietly.
She doesn't elaborate. She doesn't feel she needs to. Not to mention simply stating it in this moment would revive even more memories she doesn't wish to revisit. She closes her eyes, she can't imagine anyone in this land hasn't gone through something similar. Death is inevitable, whether by natural cause or by the hand of the demons that lurk in this land. Either way loosing someone is hard, no point in dwelling on her own griefs for there are many out there who have it worse. She opens her eyes again. This death march, it feels like just another way to beat down the citizen's will to fight, a way to shove their grief in their faces. She clenches her left fist, this will be ended someday. Someday, the dead will truly be able to rest in peace.
She walks in silence as the group returns to the manor. Such a sad sight. Once inside she dips her head to Mordred, "I thank you again for the lodging. And yes, food would be much appreciated. It has been some time since Lucian or I have eaten."
Salem let Mordred lead him. He didn't think he had stayed with them before. He was used to going home when he was done here in the village, but part of his was glad he wasn't going home and he was just spending the night here. He didn't know what he would have said to anyone at the castle. Though there was someone he wouldn't have minded on running into at the castle was Escher. He felt that he needed to talk with him. To apologize for the way his father was treating him and for always hiding away from him. His eyes slowly moved to Ireena. She was going through the same thing wasn't she? It suddenly made sense why they didn't exactly agree with him when he had said that his father might have been trying to do what was best for her. He frowned and looked away from her.
Though food sounded good... He was going to have to watch himself. Food would at least satisfy one hunger, but it wouldn't satisfy the other. He wouldn't attack people though. He would go out and hunt and wolves would feed him. It wasn't great and he was a bit picky when it came to blood, but he refused to hurt anyone. Biting a person wasn't something he had ever had to do. Blood was usually offered in crystal glasses. That wasn't something that was going to be offered to him here. That was fine.
He walked quietly away from the group and sighed softly. He would figure out what room to sleep in.
Ireena shows them bedrooms on the second floor, as Mordred gets to cooking.
In the first bedroom Ireena shows them, Daestra Ravna and Lucian as well as Salem notice a book. "Van" is on the spine. It was Van Rickten's guide to.... It seemed like it was collecting dust and perhaps it was even misplaced.
It wasn't much time before Mordred called from downstairs.
"Food's ready! It's simply beef and broth with water I'm afraid. I hope that will suffice my friends!"
Ireena smiled toward the party, if they head downstairs Ireena sneaks up on Ravna and holds her hand softly with a light smile.
"Thank you, I'm.. kinda embarrassed I just squished into you like that... But I was very grateful, you seem cold on the outside.. But you're warm and you having you close was very comforting."
As the table is prepped Mordred stretches a bit looking to them his hands twitching a bit.
"Daestra, I am curious.. of you're life before here and what sorta things you did and fought. Actually.. I trust you're all capable but I am curious. What can you all do? We could share around the table and is sufficient for me. I wonder if I really even know all of Salem's tricks up his sleeve heh.. Or we could get our mind off the gloom and spar one another out back. I would not blame anyone for not being in the mood."
Ireena shakes her head
He acts calm but he's getting antsy, I for one think sharing our skills should be enough. We'll see them tomorrow on the road right? Than again if anyone else is like my brother here and enjoys a fight I won't stop you. I know Mordred likes to say how terrible he is at swordplay but in the whole village only Parrywhimple's ever beaten him."
"He doesn't seem it.. But parrywhimp-- Parpol is the most formidable warrior here. He hasn't only beaten me, but I've never once gotten the best of him and he even hunts alone often."
"He came back with a pack of Direwolves once, they were all poorly skinned and handled but... He killed them all by himself. He'd be able to help the village more but his uncle is very greedy about his Nephew's talents and charges a lot for them."
Lucian follows closely behind Ireena, childlike curiosity and excitement building up inside him as they look at the rooms. He's never been in a building like this. Light, there haven't been many buildings he's been in at all. Now they're letting him pick a guest room? AND they're giving him free food? This is like some sort of dream.
Simple beef and broth or not, to an urchin like Lucian that sounds like a feast. He happily plops down at the table, momentarily forgetting his timidness as he looks at the food with wide eyes. Then he remembers that this isn't a dream, stiffens abruptly, and looks around with embarrassment. "Th...thanks for the food!" he stammers, giving Mordred a shaky smile. "It looks and smells amazing!"
In spite of his usual impulse to start scarfing immediately, he forces himself to wait while the others take their seats and portion of the meal. However, as soon as everyone has taken their share he starts shoveling the stew into his mouth with the excitement of someone who's unaccustomed to having an adequate meal. Realizing his rudeness and lack of proper etiquette , he shrinks into his seat for a moment and glances around the table as if expecting some sort of ridicule. When no such thing comes, he still attempts to slow down and actually enjoy the meal, seems how he doesn't actually get to taste his food very often. Of course, if there are leftovers for the taking, he's never been one to turn down free food. Usually he'd save some if that were an option, but since this isn't something he could just tuck away and keep in a sack, he'll settle for eating it. In spite of his small size he can pack away a lot of food if there is food available.
As conversation starts up around the table, Lucian listens tentatively as Mordred asks Daestra about what kinds of things he's faced in battle. Lucian really wasn't curious about that though, he'd rather Daestra talk about what the outside world is actually like. Not the dangers, just the good things. What are the people like? Are the rulers kind? What are the animals like outside? What does the food taste like and what kinds of food are available? What about the strange races? Especially the elves, Lucian never thought he'd actually meet an elf that isn't a dusk elf. But, right now his mouth is full so he doesn't have time to ask before Mordred asks what everyone can do... in a fight.
He swallows, averting his eyes and shifting uncomfortably in his seat, only to look up again when Ireena starts talking about Mordred dueling and that Parpol fellow. Something about this conversation, in spite of its lightheartedness, sends a shiver down his spine. Specifically the comment about Parpol's feat concerning the dire wolves. He's always been too sensitive to violence, and it's enough to make him lose his appetite for a little while. His instincts scream danger, even though he is as safe as he can be inside this manor, surrounded by good people.
He sets his utensils down and puts his hands in his lap... he's sitting crosslegged in the chair as if unused to sitting on anything other than the ground... and looks down at the bowl in front of him with a troubled and nervous expression. After a few moments of blank staring and some fidgeting, he shakes his head and tries to force his more cheery mood back into existence. He has only minor success in that, and his response is quiet and shaky, "I... don't like fighting. M...most of the time... uh... when I can..I avoid it at all costs honestly." He tries and fails to meet the eyes of those around him. "I can fight if needed, but I'd rather run then risk..." He swallows, realizing how foolish and cowardly this sounds. Why did he feel the need to speak up at all? There is a very good reason he doesn't like violence. But he just can't bring himself to voice it. What would they think of him then? He fiddles with his pocket watch for a moment before saying, "I could never afford good weapons. I have some knives on me and I can use them but... I'm better with my fists. It's... all I've really had training for. Outside of fighting I... I'm pretty good at getting around unnoticed I g...guess." Mostly, he's just good at getting away. That's what he's always been trained to do, both by nature and by mentor. The best fights are the ones you never have to engage in.
Once he's shared his piece, he slowly resumes eating, though with less vigor than before. Needless to say, he's not interested in sparing. Mordred would probably destroy him anyways...
Ravna nods at the first bedroom Ireena shows, "This will do." She says. She has never been picky, especially with temporary things. She even accepts the room before noticing the dust covered book. As soon as she reads the title, she moves over to pick it up and wipe of the dust. After reading the title, she will set it on the bedside cabinet. It would be better to read something like that after a meal.
Once everyone has chosen rooms she leads the way back down the stairs at Mordred's call. Despite hearing Ireena coming, she is still slightly caught off guard when the smaller woman grabs her hand. Ireena seemed to have a habit of doing that. Not that her surprise shows by any body language other than a small pause in her step. There is a slight pause before the black-clad woman replies to her as well, it seems she needs that pause to figure out how to respond to Ireena. After the pause she says, "I'm glad to hear my presence offers you peace. I hope I can continue to provide peace, comfort and protection to you during our travels."
She accepts the meal graciously, offering a prayer to the Morninglord before slowly consuming her meal. She takes only what she needs, and does not react to Lucian's large appetite. She'd grown somewhat accustomed to it over the time they took to travel to Barovia.
"There is wisdom in knowing when to fight and when to flee. I see nothing wrong with your aversion to violence." She nods to the young elf as she says this. Lucian is a strange one. He seems like a naive coward, and yet despite his inherent urge to flee at any sign of danger, he has more fire within him than the majority of this realms citizens.
Then she turns to Mordred, "Do be completely honest, I have yet to confront a truly challenging opponent. Though I attribute that to my lack of experience outside of Vallaki. I have spent a great deal of my life simply studying the history of this realm's heroes and learning from the church of the Morninglord. Despite this I am confident in my combat skills." She gives Mordred a small smile, "I would welcome a chance to test them against a seasoned swordsman, and I too would like to see what you are capable of."
As the group walks around looking through the Manor determining their rooms for the night Daestra is mostly just in awe of how run down the place is, it definitely could use some work for sure, but he tries not to judge too much as he has not known Ireena or Mordred for very long. Daestra will take whatever room is leftover, he is not very picky when it comes to accommodations. As he is looking around upstairs Mordred calls upstairs to let everyone know that the food has been finished, Beef and Broth while not anything spectacular will certainly do, can’t sleep on an empty stomach of course so he heads down with the rest of the group.
As they are all sitting at the table Mordred asks Daestra of his skills and what the world outside is really like. Daestra ponders for a second about what he can really say about the outside world “Well I work or should say worked as a town guard in my village for the last few years, our village has been in a period of peace now for quite some time so I made the decision that now would be the right time to take a break and see the vast countryside surrounding me. I always wanted to travel the world and I believed this might be the only time that I could. My skills vary greatly, while I may not be great with a sword I am one of the best archers in my post, I can nail most targets from pretty far out, its honestly my greatest strength as I don’t have many others. As for the world itself? Well.. its vastly different from what I’ve experienced here, there is a real sense of beauty in the nature surrounding my little town, lots of different species of animals freely roam throughout the hills and valley. The people for the first time in a long time are honestly living happy lives, the relationship between our king and the neighboring kingdom has been stressed for many years at times even deadly as conflicts have broken out, but a couple years ago the neighboring king passed on and the queen took his place on the throne. She immediately wanted to come to an agreement and end the conflict, we were happy to oblige and things have been great ever since. I definitely miss the place, I sure wish all of you could see how great it really was, but I’m not even sure where we are in the grand scheme of worlds, this is honestly such a strange experience for someone like myself.”
He finishes his Beef and Broth and thanks Mordred for fixing it for them all, he agrees to do some training if everyone else wants to as he is pretty bad with a sword and could use some assistance.
Salem followed Ireena like the others and settled in one of the rooms that she offered. Once called down because the food was done he made his way down the steps. The food's simplicity didn't seem to matter to him much. He knew his father probably wouldn't have been caught eating anything like this. Which made him think even more about why he was interested in someone like Ireena. Not that there was anything wrong with her of course. He gave a shake of his head and decided that it wasn't worth talking about. He started to eat while listening quietly at the talk around the table. He looked towards Mordred and tilted his head slightly. Ah of course he was interested in talking about fighting. This little vampling only fought when he felt that he needed to though and only when someone needed his help. He didn't like being pushed into a corner.
Yet even when he had been down in the cellar of the church and scared he had thought only to run. Ah how disappointed his father would have been. Not that it mattered he was disappointing in several ways. He listened as Daestra spoke about the outside world. It sounded a lot better than here... Well he didn't know if he would truly like the sunshine of the world outside of Barovia. He didn't even really like the sun here... Though the sun here... Was false. The sun didn't harm him or anything he just thought it was too bright.
"I think I am more inclined to study than fight... I don't really like fighting. I will to protect people, but I do like to try and avoid it."
Mordred smiles looking to Lucian as he thanks him for the food.
"Of course, it's the least I could do."
Mordred frowns a bit as Lucian speaks.
"I'm sure you are quiet the warrior deep down. I myself.. I've always enjoyed a friendly spar.. But fighting for you're life.. Is another story. Though it is frustrating when Parpol defeats me so handily and I hardly ever get close. Still.. I think deep down you got a fire Lucian."
Ireena sits next to Ravna and smiles as they eat. Ireena looks to Ravna and notes
"When I was showing you you're room, I saw you noticed one of fathers old books which one was it again?"
Ireena was smiling ear to ear, Ravna's words before of peace and comfort had left the woman practically glowing. It was clear that making these sorts of friendships were.. Rare for her. She nods agreeing with Ravna and Lucian.
"Yeah Mordred sometimes ya gotta run! I swear.. He told me he was gonna shove me into that church in Vallaki and than go fight Strahd himself! Don't ever let Mordred decide if we should run or fight he'll try and fight everything."
Mordred looks to Ravna and Lucian and hangs his head down a bit embarrassed.
Mordred clears his throat as he looks to Ravna.
"I didn't expect... I.. Yes I'd like a chance to spar with you as well. With wooden weapons of course or at least the blunt side of our current weapons. We could have a bout in the backyard."
Mordred looks to Daestra and Ireena looks his way. Her eyes almost sparkle with awe in hearing of the outside world. Ireena looks to Daestra with a wide grin.
"You gotta show me you're kingdom one day! And you're archery!!"
Mordred looks to Daestra and nods.
"You could use you're bow or you're blade if you prefer. I know it sounds cocky but.. I'd like to fight you both at once. I don't mind losing.. I am more so curious to how we all fight and you can see what I am capable of on the road. However if that does not sit well with you I understand."
Mordred looks to Salem with a slight frown.
"Ahh I am surprised you always seem so brave when hunting with me. Salem.. I wanted to say... I'm sorry for what I said in the cellar. That I thought you were... Playing games. I know you're my friend no matter what. Can I ask Salem.. If not fighting.. What do you enjoy doing? You as well Lucian what do you two enjoy doing in you're spare time?"
Lucian shakes his head slightly when Mordred says he thinks he's got fire in him. The only fire he has is one that needs to be put out.... well, he does want to help take down Strahd. He'd like to see the outside world and... well, not face whatever afterlife the dusk elves go to here. Assuming he'll even go there all things considered.
He frowns when Mordred asks what he enjoys doing. What does he enjoy doing? "Oh... um... I guess I like eating..." He ducks his head, what a stupid response! "I mean... I spend a lot of time in the woods, not the deep woods but... well I spend a lot of time looking for food and uh... walking? I guess?" Since dusk elves aren't allowed in Vallaki, it isn't like he gets a lot of chances to go see things... music, or anything of the sort. He spends a lot of time meditating, but he can't really say he enjoys that. ... why is this such a hard question to answer? "I... uh... well I like talking to Kasimir... when I can. And I like meeting nice people." He sinks down in his chair, realizing that he's talking circles now. Good grief, he really doesn't have any hobbies. "I like animals. Watching them in the forest and stuff..." If he isn't with Kasimir, then most of his time was just spent trying to survive. Clearly he doesn't really do a lot of things for the sake of enjoyment.
Ravna looks over at Ireena, "It was titled Van Richten's Guide to Vampires...I believe." She hadn't really looked at the title to confirm it, but that's what she thought it said.
She smiles slightly at the woman's next comment. It sounds like Mordred is a good brother.
She listens to Daestra explain his skillset. He seems to be a humble one. She has a feeling his skills are far better than he is letting on. It's a shame that he has become trapped in this place...though if she has it her way, he won't be stuck here for long.
Her gaze lingers on Salem for a few moments. His answer was very similar to Lucian's. If his words about protecting people are true, then he will be an incredibly valuable ally.
She turns back to Mordred, "I do not object to your request. If you think you can handle us both, then so be it."
If Ravna looks the guide is Van Rickten's guide to vampires.
OOC
Van Ricktens guide to Ravenloft is a great DnD sourcebook though >3
I'll post after Daestra and Salem get a chance~
(*facepalm* I knew that lol. Every time I see Van Ricktens name I think of the sourcebook XD. My brain automatically inserted it haha. I have fixed it so Ravna doesn't sound like an idiot. Thanks for correcting me XD)