The jovial bard watches his priestess friend go about her morning tight lipped, and perhaps preoccupied. Often he had heard it said that joy was contagious. For the most part that had proven true in his time on the surface, but Barovia was different. Joy in this land was fleeting, most often fueled by wine and an intense desire to escape grim reality. It would seem, as they say, that they had hit the bottom of the barrel.
Time to get down to business, Illmirth told himself. When this task is done, we shall off to do great things!
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
The riders formed up into a column, horses steered by feet rather than reins. They played a riding song and a woman with a sweet voice sang the words. The horses moved in time to the song. The Vistani gestured to the party to join them. Onwards!
Illmirth didn't miss a beat. He was mounted up and humming along with whatever the Vistani happened to be singing or playing.
As the ride wore on he turned his thoughts to the festival. He would, of course, honor his obligation and perform for the children, but the day may yet prove productive. Rictavio would be there, always an interesting fellow; and where better than a festival to find a man with a monkey! Perhaps a zoo he mused momentarily, then snapped back to focus on the act. He had performed in many places, for many people, and he found that when the young ones were happy everyone was happy. He would do his best to leave them smiling.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
Setting out with the others, Crisaryn rides in relative quiet. She does feel a bit more comfortable back in her usual clothes, the hood of her cloak pulled up over her head. She kept an eye on Lorelei, having noticed her silence a bit. She wasn't quite sure how to approach the woman though, so she just remained quiet. 'Perhaps she just prefers to keep to herself,' she thinks. 'I certainly feel that way with most people.'
As you near the gates you can see a massive wickerman. It looks as though it must be standing in the town square. The town guards stand at the open gates nodding at you all. One holds up a torch, the main dance area is by the tavern. A small stage for the childrens entertainment is near the church. The chant of the morninglord will start soon, settle in and get ready.
As you ride into the square you see the stocks full. Those who didn't want the festival are held there and have masks over their heads. A donkey mask here and a monkeys mask there.
Frederik takes flight and heads for the taverns stables. You still have rooms here.
You notice wicker circles with rays from the centre on the doors of the town.
As the party heads into Vallaki, Illmirth turns to Lorelei. The children's area is near the church. May I accompany you this morning? I can prepare to perform when the service has concluded. Besides, kids are easy to amuse. Oddly enough, blondes who are divinely inspired are the only folks I have had difficulty making smile... His good natured jest is clearly just that. All can sense her recent unrest, her unwavering drive to bring peace to Barovia. Take time to smell the funeral flowers he mused to himself grimly. One glance at Lorelei's tight lipped, determined demeanor and he was glad he didn't say that out loud. Difficult as it was for the bard, sometimes it's best to keep quiet.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
"How neat!" she had never seen such a thing before. Similar celebrations but nothing with such a large statue with fire. She finds the flames a comfort. Evil is often chased away with fire.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"Sooner or later, your Players are going to smash your railroad into a sandbox."
-Vedexent
"real life is a super high CR."
-OboeLauren
"............anybody got any potatoes? We could drop a potato in each hole an' see which ones get viciously mauled by horrible monsters?"
Listening to the guard describe the activities, Crisaryn gives a slight sigh. She is surprised at Illmirth's sudden interest in the morninglord's chant, though passes it off as an attempt at kindness. Or perhaps just it was close to where he needed to go. "I suppose I could come with you as well Lorelei, if you are going." She glances around, wondering how she might keep herself busy today and worrying it may be a long one.
Hearing Alerya's comment, she glances at the huge wickerman. "It is interesting," she says, not sounding all that enthusiastic. "I suppose they will burn the man down or something?" Not really sure of what the custom might be here, she is a bit curious.
The young blonde priestess shakes her head but she does smile briefly. "If only those smiles you pride yourself with drawing forth could save these lands from it's evil darkness. But you are right, I would like to join in with the chant, and you're all most welcome to join me, the light of the morninglord will hopefully inspire hope and resolve in the people of Vallaki for the overturning of the tyrant in the high castle."
I fear that you will suffer much my friend. As we stand, even with allies, we could do little to the Dark Lord of Barovia other than bloody his fangs and sate his thirst. This war will be of 1000 small cuts, growing more powerful as we thin out his allies. Even small, off the wall jobs like getting these poor souls wine problem solved may aid us in some way on our quest. It is said Far is the sight of an elf; multiplied beyond measure is the sight of the gods. Let us find joy where we may, and leave it everywhere we can. Perhaps it will not be the sun that undoes Strahd, but the light of 1000 candles. Only the gods know what will be, or which small act or discovery can change the fate of all.
Illmirth looks in Lorelei's eyes, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. We may dance to much different tunes, you and I, but to whatever end, I will stand with you.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
Crisaryn cannot help but roll her eyes at Illmirth's comment to Lorelei at the end, though she tries to keep her reaction hidden within the hood of her cloak. She perhaps misses the sincerity in the words, though her thoughts are not different from most of what the bard is saying. It is likely the small things that matter in the end. And for these people, it is these little moments of joy that even keep them still in the fight at all. They're admittedly important, even if she isn't inclined towards all the merriment.
The young blonde priestess glances down at the hand on her shoulder with some discomfort, again having her personal space invaded. "I'm not saying you are wrong Illmirth, but I don't dance at all. I will not pretend to understand what you mean by that saying but I don't think I can merely let the morninglord solve this for us while I try to enjoy myself at this festival, I'm convinced he relies on people like me to stand up to the dark lord and not just try to distract the people of Vallakia from the fact that they are oppressed and make them indiffirent to this injustice against them that goes on every day. It seems these festivals have not brought the people of Vallakia to rise against the dark lord but rather brought them into a place of complacency. I will pray to the morninglord for guidance but don't expect me to dance as long as Strahd still rules these lands." She says a bit defiantly, taking a step back to let the hand slide off her shoulder.
The column rode to the Blue Water Inn. The Vistani taking their horses to the paddock behind the stable. Then bringing the tack indoors to keep it from rain. The horses tucked into a hot mash with enthusiasm.
One of the innkeepers boys, Brom you identify him as, comes over to you, he is dressed in a rich blue velvet tunic and his shirt was embroidered in a sky blue geometric pattern common among the men of Barovia. You all have stabling space he says and motions the four of you into the stables, Fren will take care of them for you. If you are coming to the Church, you'll see the relics of St Anduril. I'll show you the way if you like?
You notice all of the ravens in the stable loft. They gaze down at you some seem to catch your gaze on purpose. Finally Illmirth makes out Frederik, a nest lined with Aleryas scarf.
You notice some of the early waking residents, all the good clothes that have been taken out of storage. Rich velvets, garish ribbons and soft cloaks. They are walking towards the bell peels
Only once did he begin to reply to Lorelei, but immediately thought better of it. It was becoming clear to the bard that he and the priestess simply saw the world differently. In lieu of throwing more wood on the smoldering fire, he offered only a thin lipped smile, a nod of acknowledgment, and the words As you wish. His tone was perfectly neutral, but his disappointment and a hint of saddness were clearly reflected in his eyes.
He rode on in silence, hopping gracefully from his mount when they reached the stable. He offered the gathered ravens his best raven 'caw caw' in greeting and raises his gaze to Frederik. We will be at the church. Will you join me for the children's show? I could use some help, and your feathered friends will make for a grand closing act.
As he exits the stable, he thanks Brom and tosses him a silver coin. He then follows Lorelei to the church. He was now curious to see relics the boy mentioned.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
After getting the horses stabled, Crisaryn can't help but notice the fine clothes that most of the early risers seem to be wearing. She approaches Alerya, asking her quietly. "I'm just wearing my old traveling clothes. I mean, Maeve fixed up my tunic a bit, but it's still rather plain. I should be fine though, right?" She feels silly for asking her but somehow knowing that Lysana had gifted her with the nicely embroidered shirt yesterday makes her feel like maybe she wasn't being appreciative of all the woman had done for her.
She nods in thanks to Brom and follows the group to the church. Religious artifacts can be interesting. Some people put faith into some remarkable objects. Maybe there will be a piece of art depicting the events or history of the items as well.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"Sooner or later, your Players are going to smash your railroad into a sandbox."
-Vedexent
"real life is a super high CR."
-OboeLauren
"............anybody got any potatoes? We could drop a potato in each hole an' see which ones get viciously mauled by horrible monsters?"
The young blonde priestess too follows along to church, even then feeling awkward about her presence at the festival. Being on the road for much of her life she wasn't used to praying in such large groups, her praying had always been a personal thing, most often done in solitude.
Crisaryn just shrugs as it seems Alerya didn't seem to catch her question and Lorelei certainly did not seem the sort to have an opinion. It really doesn't matter to her what other people might think of her attire. She simply follows behind the others when they head to hear the prayers.
This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves.
You watch as Rictavio and one of the villagers put together a small stage, pulling a tented roof over it. They put a small puppet tent to the right and some seats on the left.
The door to the church is open and a welcoming light spreads out of the front door. It too has wicker suns on the door. You watch as the townsfolk file in. A boy can be seen pulling the bell ropes and a deep peel rings out. There are some places left at the back. A soft glow cuts through the twilight enhancing the light cast by the cleric.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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Illmirth
The jovial bard watches his priestess friend go about her morning tight lipped, and perhaps preoccupied. Often he had heard it said that joy was contagious. For the most part that had proven true in his time on the surface, but Barovia was different. Joy in this land was fleeting, most often fueled by wine and an intense desire to escape grim reality. It would seem, as they say, that they had hit the bottom of the barrel.
Time to get down to business, Illmirth told himself. When this task is done, we shall off to do great things!
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
DM
The riders formed up into a column, horses steered by feet rather than reins. They played a riding song and a woman with a sweet voice sang the words. The horses moved in time to the song. The Vistani gestured to the party to join them. Onwards!
Illmirth
Illmirth didn't miss a beat. He was mounted up and humming along with whatever the Vistani happened to be singing or playing.
As the ride wore on he turned his thoughts to the festival. He would, of course, honor his obligation and perform for the children, but the day may yet prove productive. Rictavio would be there, always an interesting fellow; and where better than a festival to find a man with a monkey! Perhaps a zoo he mused momentarily, then snapped back to focus on the act. He had performed in many places, for many people, and he found that when the young ones were happy everyone was happy. He would do his best to leave them smiling.
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
Crisaryn Melkial
Setting out with the others, Crisaryn rides in relative quiet. She does feel a bit more comfortable back in her usual clothes, the hood of her cloak pulled up over her head. She kept an eye on Lorelei, having noticed her silence a bit. She wasn't quite sure how to approach the woman though, so she just remained quiet. 'Perhaps she just prefers to keep to herself,' she thinks. 'I certainly feel that way with most people.'
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Lorelei Dawnwarden
The young blonde priestess follows along with the others, her thoughts straying to her old mentor, wondering if she would ever meet him again.
DM
As you near the gates you can see a massive wickerman. It looks as though it must be standing in the town square. The town guards stand at the open gates nodding at you all. One holds up a torch, the main dance area is by the tavern. A small stage for the childrens entertainment is near the church. The chant of the morninglord will start soon, settle in and get ready.
As you ride into the square you see the stocks full. Those who didn't want the festival are held there and have masks over their heads. A donkey mask here and a monkeys mask there.
Frederik takes flight and heads for the taverns stables. You still have rooms here.
You notice wicker circles with rays from the centre on the doors of the town.
Illmirth
"My thanks, good man," the bard says with smile.
As the party heads into Vallaki, Illmirth turns to Lorelei. The children's area is near the church. May I accompany you this morning? I can prepare to perform when the service has concluded. Besides, kids are easy to amuse. Oddly enough, blondes who are divinely inspired are the only folks I have had difficulty making smile... His good natured jest is clearly just that. All can sense her recent unrest, her unwavering drive to bring peace to Barovia. Take time to smell the funeral flowers he mused to himself grimly. One glance at Lorelei's tight lipped, determined demeanor and he was glad he didn't say that out loud. Difficult as it was for the bard, sometimes it's best to keep quiet.
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
Alerya
"How neat!" she had never seen such a thing before. Similar celebrations but nothing with such a large statue with fire. She finds the flames a comfort. Evil is often chased away with fire.
"Sooner or later, your Players are going to smash your railroad into a sandbox."
-Vedexent
"real life is a super high CR."
-OboeLauren
"............anybody got any potatoes? We could drop a potato in each hole an' see which ones get viciously mauled by horrible monsters?"
-Ilyara Thundertale
Crisaryn Melkial
Listening to the guard describe the activities, Crisaryn gives a slight sigh. She is surprised at Illmirth's sudden interest in the morninglord's chant, though passes it off as an attempt at kindness. Or perhaps just it was close to where he needed to go. "I suppose I could come with you as well Lorelei, if you are going." She glances around, wondering how she might keep herself busy today and worrying it may be a long one.
Hearing Alerya's comment, she glances at the huge wickerman. "It is interesting," she says, not sounding all that enthusiastic. "I suppose they will burn the man down or something?" Not really sure of what the custom might be here, she is a bit curious.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Lorelei Dawnwarden
The young blonde priestess shakes her head but she does smile briefly. "If only those smiles you pride yourself with drawing forth could save these lands from it's evil darkness. But you are right, I would like to join in with the chant, and you're all most welcome to join me, the light of the morninglord will hopefully inspire hope and resolve in the people of Vallaki for the overturning of the tyrant in the high castle."
Illmirth
I fear that you will suffer much my friend. As we stand, even with allies, we could do little to the Dark Lord of Barovia other than bloody his fangs and sate his thirst. This war will be of 1000 small cuts, growing more powerful as we thin out his allies. Even small, off the wall jobs like getting these poor souls wine problem solved may aid us in some way on our quest. It is said Far is the sight of an elf; multiplied beyond measure is the sight of the gods. Let us find joy where we may, and leave it everywhere we can. Perhaps it will not be the sun that undoes Strahd, but the light of 1000 candles. Only the gods know what will be, or which small act or discovery can change the fate of all.
Illmirth looks in Lorelei's eyes, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. We may dance to much different tunes, you and I, but to whatever end, I will stand with you.
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
Crisaryn Melkial
Crisaryn cannot help but roll her eyes at Illmirth's comment to Lorelei at the end, though she tries to keep her reaction hidden within the hood of her cloak. She perhaps misses the sincerity in the words, though her thoughts are not different from most of what the bard is saying. It is likely the small things that matter in the end. And for these people, it is these little moments of joy that even keep them still in the fight at all. They're admittedly important, even if she isn't inclined towards all the merriment.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Lorelei Dawnwarden
The young blonde priestess glances down at the hand on her shoulder with some discomfort, again having her personal space invaded. "I'm not saying you are wrong Illmirth, but I don't dance at all. I will not pretend to understand what you mean by that saying but I don't think I can merely let the morninglord solve this for us while I try to enjoy myself at this festival, I'm convinced he relies on people like me to stand up to the dark lord and not just try to distract the people of Vallakia from the fact that they are oppressed and make them indiffirent to this injustice against them that goes on every day. It seems these festivals have not brought the people of Vallakia to rise against the dark lord but rather brought them into a place of complacency. I will pray to the morninglord for guidance but don't expect me to dance as long as Strahd still rules these lands." She says a bit defiantly, taking a step back to let the hand slide off her shoulder.
DM
The column rode to the Blue Water Inn. The Vistani taking their horses to the paddock behind the stable. Then bringing the tack indoors to keep it from rain. The horses tucked into a hot mash with enthusiasm.
One of the innkeepers boys, Brom you identify him as, comes over to you, he is dressed in a rich blue velvet tunic and his shirt was embroidered in a sky blue geometric pattern common among the men of Barovia. You all have stabling space he says and motions the four of you into the stables, Fren will take care of them for you. If you are coming to the Church, you'll see the relics of St Anduril. I'll show you the way if you like?
You notice all of the ravens in the stable loft. They gaze down at you some seem to catch your gaze on purpose. Finally Illmirth makes out Frederik, a nest lined with Aleryas scarf.
You notice some of the early waking residents, all the good clothes that have been taken out of storage. Rich velvets, garish ribbons and soft cloaks. They are walking towards the bell peels
Illmirth
Only once did he begin to reply to Lorelei, but immediately thought better of it. It was becoming clear to the bard that he and the priestess simply saw the world differently. In lieu of throwing more wood on the smoldering fire, he offered only a thin lipped smile, a nod of acknowledgment, and the words As you wish. His tone was perfectly neutral, but his disappointment and a hint of saddness were clearly reflected in his eyes.
He rode on in silence, hopping gracefully from his mount when they reached the stable. He offered the gathered ravens his best raven 'caw caw' in greeting and raises his gaze to Frederik. We will be at the church. Will you join me for the children's show? I could use some help, and your feathered friends will make for a grand closing act.
As he exits the stable, he thanks Brom and tosses him a silver coin. He then follows Lorelei to the church. He was now curious to see relics the boy mentioned.
For I am Death and I won't break. I got a life I've got to take. When will it end, this sufferin' of late? It was nice to know you. __The Pretty Reckless
Crisaryn Melkial
After getting the horses stabled, Crisaryn can't help but notice the fine clothes that most of the early risers seem to be wearing. She approaches Alerya, asking her quietly. "I'm just wearing my old traveling clothes. I mean, Maeve fixed up my tunic a bit, but it's still rather plain. I should be fine though, right?" She feels silly for asking her but somehow knowing that Lysana had gifted her with the nicely embroidered shirt yesterday makes her feel like maybe she wasn't being appreciative of all the woman had done for her.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Alerya
She nods in thanks to Brom and follows the group to the church. Religious artifacts can be interesting. Some people put faith into some remarkable objects. Maybe there will be a piece of art depicting the events or history of the items as well.
"Sooner or later, your Players are going to smash your railroad into a sandbox."
-Vedexent
"real life is a super high CR."
-OboeLauren
"............anybody got any potatoes? We could drop a potato in each hole an' see which ones get viciously mauled by horrible monsters?"
-Ilyara Thundertale
Lorelei Dawnwarden
The young blonde priestess too follows along to church, even then feeling awkward about her presence at the festival. Being on the road for much of her life she wasn't used to praying in such large groups, her praying had always been a personal thing, most often done in solitude.
Crisaryn Melkial
Crisaryn just shrugs as it seems Alerya didn't seem to catch her question and Lorelei certainly did not seem the sort to have an opinion. It really doesn't matter to her what other people might think of her attire. She simply follows behind the others when they head to hear the prayers.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
DM
This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves.
You watch as Rictavio and one of the villagers put together a small stage, pulling a tented roof over it. They put a small puppet tent to the right and some seats on the left.
The door to the church is open and a welcoming light spreads out of the front door. It too has wicker suns on the door. You watch as the townsfolk file in. A boy can be seen pulling the bell ropes and a deep peel rings out. There are some places left at the back. A soft glow cuts through the twilight enhancing the light cast by the cleric.