"It is good to see you too. Some people try to hang me, but they not very good hangmen. Then I met new friends. One a dwarf", he holds a hand at his knee height, despite Baern actually being taller than that, "and a knight that looks made of metal! We went to see Madam Eva, who gave me...". His voice tails off as he remembers the events at the Tser Pool Vistani encampment. It seems to him unwise to say more of that, or Sandu's subsequent ophthalmic troubles, never mind the fiend at the orphanage. Life has suddenly got very complicated for Galqarin.
> She nods towards Ioben, who at this time is approaching the ladies at the table. "Looks like he's made quite the impression."
Thoughtfully, Galqarin asks, "Does that seem odd? On way to inn, a pretty lady knew his name is Ioben. Then lights flickered when she went away."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Galqarin - Danika looks towards Matis, who in turn shakes his head, "It sounds odd to me, do you suspect foul play? The ladies have been in town for the last 4 or 5 days... how long have you been in town?".
Danika once more looks towards Matis, you notice she makes a series of gestures with her right hand as she looks him in the eyes, "Thanks Mathis, why don't you check on the others." Mathis says nothing but gives a nod and heads out back.
"I shouldn't worry too much about it Galqarin, I'll ask around about any similar occurrences. In the meantime, you make sure your friend doesn't do anything foolish." She gives you a stern look, "Best to make sure nothing untoward happens, eh?"
She smiles broadly, "Now tell me more about your daring escapades - some people tried to hang you? You met with Madam Eva? It sounds like a lot has happened since we last spoke."
((Galqarin is unlikely to have heard all that was said between Ioben and the lady from the street - as he was a ways behind when the events transpired and the sound of the rain would have likely obscured a great deal of it.))
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"I will take the wolf. And a glass of the Red Dragon."Ioben reached into his pouch and fished out 4 gold and 6 more silver, to go with the one already on the1 already on the bar. It was only as he was putting his pouch back that he realised what he had just done. He didn't spend his own money on other people. You never know when your next coin will come to you. Sometimes the cards turned up in your favour and sometimes they didn't. That's why he liked to control the odds whenever he could. He would have to make sure he collected from the others in the morning. "I'll be over at the table."
Galqarin appeared comfortable, so Ioben gave him a quick pat on the shoulder and walked over to the table where Othibelle had taken a seat with her companions. Finding an empty spot, he nods his head to each of the ladies in turn before finally settling on Othibelle. In the corner of his mind, a tickle of suspicion pricks at him. Why would such a women approach me? She had barely even seen me?
Insight (with disadvantage due to feeling swept up in the situation): 13
((Edit: What a difference disadvantage can make - Nat 20 and Nat 1)
"My Lady Othibelle. Thank you again for your invitation."Without thought, a coin appeared in his fingers. A copper. Casually he rolled it between his knuckles and flickered across the back of his hand. This was a nervous habit of his, but often impressed the simple people he met at taverns. At the moment he didn't even realise that he had started doing it."I would love to talk to you. I haven't long been in Barovia, and I am sure there is a lot I could learn from you about this place."
Sandu - Lucian listens intently to your words,"Hopefully Milivoj will make a full recovery, if it is as you say." He pauses, contemplating,"I do think it best that someone be present when I visit the boy." Sadness enters his voice,"I have a feeling that I have had the wool pulled over my eyes for a long time. Whatever deal, or pact, or whatever, Milivoj made has had awful ramifications. You have the truth of it - the bones MUST be returned before any more evil be allowed to take root."
"In the meantime, it is probably for the best that we set about removing any residual taint from the Orphanage before the children be allowed to re-enter." He moves towards the church,"I shall inform Ms Belasco of our plans. The children shall have to stay the night at the church... unless." The Father stokes his chin, "Ireena mentioned that you stayed with the Arasek's - Gunther and Yelena - last night. I wonder if they may be able to help out with housing the children temporarily and providing the tools required for removing the runes. Might be worth asking them."
'Sounds like a good idea.'
Sandu stretched and surpressed a yawn. 'One last thing to cross off the list.'
In passing through the church he informed the others that Ioben and Galqarin were heading to the Blue Water Inn and told them he would meet them there when his business with Father Lucian at the orphanage was concluded.
'After you, Father.'Sandu let the priest take the lead and followed suit.
You contemplate why such a lady would ever approach you; could it be some sort of trap? Might they want something from you? But no, you convince yourself that it must have been your winning smile and natural charisma that caused Lady Othibelle to approach you. Besides, you are a man of opportunity, and this is too good a situation to pass up. As far as you are able to tell the ladies look pretty harmless.
Ioben - Lady Othibelle stands and gently plants a kiss on your cheek. "I'm glad you chose to join us Ioben. I see my instincts were not misplaced."Her hands sweep over the ladies situated at the table,"Please allow me to introduce my friends; the wonderful Clarabelle..." A demure young lady with blonde hair smiles shyly, "Rosabelle", another young lady with vibrant red hair gives you a mischievous grin and a little wave,"Beaubelle", a strong-featured, athletic young lady raises her eyebrow disinterestedly,"and finally, but by no means least, the Lady Ellabelle", the last lady is slightly older than the rest, she smiles endearingly. "Ladies, this fantastic individual is Ioben," Othibelle says with a flourish of her hand towards you; you are struck instantly by her elegance, it is almost mesmerising.
"A pleasure,"Ellabelle says warmly,"Thought he'd be a little more muscular..."Beaubelle declares,"I think he looks just fine,"Rosabelle says with a wink,"I like his hair,"mumbles a blushing Clarabelle."Anyway, now that you have met my friends..." Othibelle smiles at the ladies she introduced,"More sisters, in truth. I can turn my attention to the matters at hand - sorry, that is to say we can have a chat Ioben. I'm glad your masked-friend seems to be fitting in."You look over to the bar where Galqarin seems to be deep in conversation.
"Now, if you ladies could allow myself and Ioben a little room, I would be much obliged." Othibelle's words come out more as a command than a request. Beaubelle scowls at you but stands and proceeds to move from the table."Oi - Nikolai - where's my drink, you've allowed my glass to empty!"She yells at one of the young noblemen, who practically trips over himself to quickly buy the her a drink. "Ohh but Nikolai and Karl are so much less interesting than this Ioben,"moans Rosabelle, as she playfully moves her finger around the rim of her glass. Othibelle narrows her eyes a little,"Please Rosabelle, I think speaking with all of us at once is likely to be more than poor Ioben can handle,"she says, winking at you.
Momentarily, the others move to a separate table, leaving you alone with Othibelle. "That's better, a little more intimate - wouldn't you say. Now what was that you were saying Ioben dear? 'Learning more about this place'? Oh I think there is much you may be able to learn... and I am a very good teacher. Please take a seat and tell me, what would you like to know?". As you take a seat you are struck by how intoxicating the perfume Othibelle wears is, you almost find yourself becoming lost in the sensation.
Late Evening - Day 5 - St. Andral's Orphanage (Milivoj's Room)
Sandu, Dormark & Baern - You watch as Ioben and Galqarin head off towards the Blue Water Inn, looking to arrange for a place to stay the night. The Father gathers you all together,"Thank you Sandu,"he says glumly, "I do feel a little tentative about approaching Milivoj regarding the theft. I am glad you will all be with me."
As a group you make your way to the Orphanage, moving through it's large front doors; the emptiness of the place, with none of the children present, creates a sense of unease. You move down the now familiar corridor, through the main lounge, and to Milivoj's bedroom. As you enter you are struck that the ambience of the place has greatly improved since you were last in the room - no longer is there the smell of death, or the nervous tension of Ms Belasco. Sitting up in his bed is a lot healthier looking Milivoj, a candle lighting his significantly less pale face.
"I thought I mighta got a visit." He says sheepishly, unable to look the Father in the eye. "This about those old bones?"he asks with a tone of resignation. The Father places his elderly hand against the wall, propping himself up, looking as though his age was catching up with him."What have you done?" he hisses, his voice hoarse and angry tears falling from his eyes,"I trusted you!"
Late Evening - Day 5 - St. Andral's Church (Main Hall - Front Pew)
Valerie - You lose yourself in contemplation and prayer, desperately seeking answers to the questions floating around your mind. Minutes feel like seconds and you barely notice the comings or goings of those around you.
You are not quite sure how long you found yourself waiting on that front pew. Since entering the land of Barovia you have felt the link between Tyr and yourself become strained - for this was an evil land, where a different God reigned. Just when you feel that all hope was lost, as you were about to head to the Blue Water Inn, you feel an odd sensation in your mind; a calmness that brings a sense of order to your thoughts.
In your minds eye you see a man standing with long flowing white hair, sunken blind eyes, holding up his right arm which ends in a stump - you know this figure... Tyr, the Maimed God. Joy fills your heart as the revelation lifts your spirits. Tyr's right arm beckons you, calling you over, wordlessly he points. Images stream through your mind as your spirit flies from the church, over the darkened landscape of Vallaki. You see Ioben walking along the cobbled streets, speaking with a strange woman, you go to fly towards him but Tyr's spirit guides you away, the nearby street lamps flicker as you whizz past.
You fly northwards to the centre of a great lake, the moonlight shining off it's surface - Lake Zarovich. A single row-boat can be found paddling across the surface. Tyr's spirit stops suddenly and points down towards the water. You see a glowing light below the surface of the lake, it is bright and celestial. The Maimed God looks at you and smiles. There is a splooshing sound of water as the light below the waves starts rising. The light proceeds to break the water's surface and shoot up towards Tyr. Once it comes into view you realise that the light comes from a magnificent looking longsword.
Tyr's spirit turns to you and open's it's mouth, "You must retrieve it Valerie - it will help you on your journey." The voice is deep and filled with concern,"My time here is fleeting - I can't stay lo..."his words are suddenly cut short and you find yourself being whisked back towards your body, back towards the Church.
With a start you awaken, lying in the front pew of the main hall at the Church of St. Andral - you must have fallen asleep. A gentleman walks over, he is dressed in fine red-velvet clothes, you would guess him to be in his mid-thirties, with long dark flowing hair. "Are you alright?" He asks, concern in his voice. "I must admit it has been a while since I last set foot in this place. It can all be a little overwhelming, can't it?". He takes a seat next to you and looks around,"You know what though, now I am here - I think I quite like it. It has a certain feeling, a sanctity, does it not?"
"Oh, but where are my manners. My name is Vasili. Vasili Von Holtz, and I am pleased to meet you." He smiles and extends a hand.
“Father, let us not let our emotions override why we have come here. What happened to the bones of the saint Milivoj? Do you realize what danger you invited to the church,” asks Dormark standing next to the bed.
Dormark - Milivoj scrambles back in his bed as you approach. You can see he is quite clearly spooked by your visage,"Wh-wh-what are you? I didn't mean it I swear! Get away from me! Father Lucian?!"
Father Lucian stands silent, still lost in thought. Spotting that he is not due to get any help, Milivoj looks at you wide-eyed,"Y-ya gotta understand... He gave me money, more money than I ever seen... jus' for a few old, crumbling bones! No-one would miss 'em, he said. I didn't know it'd put people in danger, I swear!".
Hearing the confession come from Milivoj's mouth seems to snap the Father out of his stupor. "WHO CHILD?" he bellows, a little of his vigour returning to him,"Who would you betray me to, betray the church to, and -- above all -- who would you betray your friends to?". Milivoj sobs. He speaks through breaths, his voice infantile and weak, "I-I-I..."he stutters.
"WHO?!"Father Lucian moves to the young lad, for a moment you are convinced he is about to throttle him.
"H-H-Henrik,"Milivoj says meekly.
The Father's face is the image of disdain and disgust as he turns away from the disgraced grave-digger. Addressing you he coolly explains,"Henrik van der Voort... the local coffin-maker... I'd have never suspected. How could he?"
Ioben sat back a little heavily That kiss had been intoxicating he could have only hoped, yet he had not expected Othibelle to be so forward. Women who acted like this in the taverns at home offered much but ended up taking more than they gave. Still Othibelle was not a lady like that. Her expression showed genuine interest.
Ioben tried to take in the names of the other women, but they flirted away as quickly as he heard them. Something about the names caught his attention though. It seemed strange that they were so similar to each other. Strange, but not the strangest thing he had met since he came to Barovia.
The other women soon left at Othibelles request. Ioben enjoyed the opportunity to sit and share a moment with such a beautiful Lady.
Oh I think there is much you may be able to learn... and I am a very good teacher. Please take a seat and tell me, what would you like to know?"
“You may not believe this, but I have not been in Barovia long. What is really strange is I couldn’t really tell you how I even ended up here. Have you met people who travel beyond the borders of Barovia? I would so like to know that I can get home.” Ioben looked into Othibelles eyes. “Not that I plan on leaving anytime soon, but I would like to know that when the time comes I can actually get there.”
Valerie does not response to the man at first. Her mind is filled with joy and worry. She is glad that she got a vision from her god, but she is not sure what happened. Why did the dream was interrupted? Was it Stradh's doing or something else?
She spends a few moment staring blankly at the wall, lost in her thoughts. Then she snaps back and turns to the stranger beside her. She looks at the extended hand then back to him. She slowly extend her hand. "I’m Valerie... Are you here for blessing? Father is not here."
Ioben - Othibelle leans in close,"Tell me Ioben - do you believe in destiny? That people's paths are preordained and set out for them."She chuckles softly,"Or do you believe that life is what we make of it, perhaps. That we can be the masters of our own future? Either way, I know that we were supposed to meet each other here this evening." She pauses to take a sip of her wine.
"I think your being here, in Barovia, is momentous... maybe you do not see it yet, but the impact that each individual's actions can have on a place can cause ripples throughout time." She looks down and laughs dismissively,"I'm sorry, I think that might be the wine talking. To answer your question, where is home? Is it not the place in which we feel most comfortable, maybe Vallaki," she laughs and gestures around the tavern,"Would this town be the worst place to call home?"
She drops the levity a little and leans in close again, "Now, if you are talking about travelling through the Mists? Well then, I guess in order to do such a thing you would need to have the right friends. For as you undoubtedly know by now, one does not simply walk through the Mist and survive. I think..."She lets out a single, hearty laugh,"Oh, what am I saying - I KNOW that you can travel through the Mists and I know what you would need." She pauses, partly for dramatic affect and partly to let the impact of her words resonate.
"Tell me Ioben... you're a risk taker, correct? I could sense it from the first moment you walked in. What would you be prepared to risk? To gamble... if the prize was invaluable - in terms of wealth?" she peers at you, her gaze looking into your very soul,"reputation and prestige?", the smile vanishes, "or perhaps it is power you seek?"
Valerie - "Good to meet you Valerie," Vasili's voice is full of warmth,"I had hoped to catch the Father, but it is no worry." He looks at the altar to the Morninglord and smiles,"To think that the Morninglord has been watching over this place all this time... and I never thought to step inside and pay my respects." He sighs a little, "But that is an oversight I shall look to remedy."
Vasili attempts to get a little more comfortable in the pew,"They always make these things so uncomfortable!"he jokes. "Tell me Valerie, were you also drawn to this Church this evening? I am not sure what it is but I just felt compelled to pay it a visit. I hope I didn't disturb you earlier - I know how important faith and prayer can be to an individual."
"Or do you believe that life is what we make of it, perhaps. That we can be the masters of our own future? Either way, I know that we were supposed to meet each other here this evening." She pauses to take a sip of her wine.
"I have never allowed my luck to liked to allow the roll of a dice to determine my path. Not when I can do something about it." Ioben listened intently to Othibelle. Her words tugged at his mind. Where was home? Surely he could live here, but...Ioben's mind snapped back to the orphanage and the creatures he had seen there. This was not his home and he could never live here. Not while the shadows hung so low over the land.
"Now, if you are talking about travelling through the Mists? Well then, I guess in order to do such a thing you would need to have the right friends. For as you undoubtedly know by now, one does not simply walk through the Mist and survive. I think..."She lets out a single, hearty laugh,"Oh, what am I saying - I KNOW that you can travel through the Mists and I know what you would need."
Ioben's heart seemed to stop. There was a chance. If Othibelle knew how to get out of here, surely the other's would do anything to get home, as he would. He couldn't wait to tell them. Looking around the room, he saw Galqrin at the bar, but he seemed happy for the moment. Besides, Galqrin had not come with them. He was home. This did not concern him and he probably wouldn't understand.
None of the others had arrived at the inn yet. Maybe that was for the best. He needed to get to know as much from Othibelle as he could before the others interrupted them.
"Tell me Ioben... you're a risk taker, correct? I could sense it from the first moment you walked in. What would you be prepared to risk? To gamble... if the prize was invaluable - in terms of wealth?" she peers at you, her gaze looking into your very soul,"reputation and prestige?", the smile vanishes, "or perhaps it is power you seek?"
"Life is a gamble. I have walked into a tavern with nothing but a few coppers and left with a pouch full of silver. I have also left at the end of a blade. But both made me truly feel alive. Can you say that about letting the tides carry you along?" Ioben thought for a moment before continuing to speak."All I have is what you see before you. I have no power beyond what exists in my hands." The coin disappeared and reappeared."To get home I would place even that on the table. There are times I feel powerless. There have been things I have seen here that I can do nothing about except run. I wish that were not the case. I wish I could protect those around me, I wish I could protect you, but a blade only does so much."
Ioben didn't know what else to say and looked around a little uncertain. He was not used to sharing his fears in this way. Where was that food? Picking up his cup he took a long drink and put it back down, looking at Othibelle.
"Compel to come? You must be a man of faith to get the calling?" Valerie asks. "But no. I was not drawn to here. I am new to this town. I just came across and decided to check it out."
Ioben - Othibelle listens to you intently, "You appear to be in quite the quandary Ioben. What if I was to tell you that there was a way? A way of protecting those around you, of feeling less powerless?"
She is briefly interrupted by a young lad from the kitchens who delivers your food and drinks; Othibelle is silent and smiles politely as the waiter comes and goes.
"I think you under-sell yourself." She gazes into your eyes,"You strike me as a man that is prepared to take risks, to do what is necessary when the situation arises... It is natural to you. Tell me, do you think that young waiter would be able to do the same?" She shakes her head dismissively. "You say that life is a gamble... but you know, as do I, that you can always stack the deck in your favour, in a manner of speaking."
She leans closer to you,"In truth, I had hoped to find you here this evening Ioben. You see, there are those that cancontrol the tides... the flow of what does and does not happen in this land."Othibelle playfully brushes your arm. "I'm afraid it is, however, time to call it a night and leave you to your meal." She says standing,"I have a feeling it will not be long until we see each other again."
You notice the other ladies have managed to ditch the young noblemen and wait for Othibelle near the entrance to the tavern. Othibelle waves to them,"In parting, I'd say, make sure you keep that which is most precious to you closest to your heart."She smirks, places her hand over her heart, and winks before turning around and joining her friends.
From the look of Vasili's clothing you can quickly tell that he is an incredibly affluent man that clearly takes a lot of time and effort when it comes to presenting himself; you are certain the rings he wears upon his fingers are not 'dress' jewellery but likely the 'real deal'.
You also notice that his eyes occasionally wander to where Ireena is sitting and absent-mindedly adjusting his collar and hair. It appears as though he is a little taken with her, but likely to shy to make an approach.
Vasili smiles when you mention that he is a man of faith."Well, I think faith is important for people to have in times of trouble. You mention that you are new to Vallaki? I'd say welcome to our fair town - it might not look like much, but it is home." he says warmly. "If there is any way in which I can help - all you need do is ask. I know how tough it can be for those finding themselves in unfamiliar surroundings."
Ioben took a moment to collect his thoughts. What had just happened? As quickly as she had appeared, Othibelle had whisked out again, leaving him dangling on words of potential. After a moment, he picked up his drink and drained it, before heading back to the bar. "Galqarin, I think I am ready to retire. Sleep would do me well. Do you mind waiting a while for the others? They might end up staying elsewhere, but we should give them a little longer." Then, turning to the man behind the bar he said, "If it's ok, I think I will take my meal to my room if you could direct the way."
Valerie smiles and nods. "I appreciate the welcome. But... I didn’t think you were from here at first. You... seem a little bit different from folk around here."
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"It is good to see you too. Some people try to hang me, but they not very good hangmen. Then I met new friends. One a dwarf", he holds a hand at his knee height, despite Baern actually being taller than that, "and a knight that looks made of metal! We went to see Madam Eva, who gave me...". His voice tails off as he remembers the events at the Tser Pool Vistani encampment. It seems to him unwise to say more of that, or Sandu's subsequent ophthalmic troubles, never mind the fiend at the orphanage. Life has suddenly got very complicated for Galqarin.
> She nods towards Ioben, who at this time is approaching the ladies at the table. "Looks like he's made quite the impression."
Thoughtfully, Galqarin asks, "Does that seem odd? On way to inn, a pretty lady knew his name is Ioben. Then lights flickered when she went away."
DM rolls:
16
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
"I will take the wolf. And a glass of the Red Dragon." Ioben reached into his pouch and fished out 4 gold and 6 more silver, to go with the one already on the1 already on the bar. It was only as he was putting his pouch back that he realised what he had just done. He didn't spend his own money on other people. You never know when your next coin will come to you. Sometimes the cards turned up in your favour and sometimes they didn't. That's why he liked to control the odds whenever he could. He would have to make sure he collected from the others in the morning. "I'll be over at the table."
Galqarin appeared comfortable, so Ioben gave him a quick pat on the shoulder and walked over to the table where Othibelle had taken a seat with her companions. Finding an empty spot, he nods his head to each of the ladies in turn before finally settling on Othibelle. In the corner of his mind, a tickle of suspicion pricks at him. Why would such a women approach me? She had barely even seen me?
Insight (with disadvantage due to feeling swept up in the situation): 13
((Edit: What a difference disadvantage can make - Nat 20 and Nat 1)
"My Lady Othibelle. Thank you again for your invitation." Without thought, a coin appeared in his fingers. A copper. Casually he rolled it between his knuckles and flickered across the back of his hand. This was a nervous habit of his, but often impressed the simple people he met at taverns. At the moment he didn't even realise that he had started doing it. "I would love to talk to you. I haven't long been in Barovia, and I am sure there is a lot I could learn from you about this place."
'Sounds like a good idea.'
Sandu stretched and surpressed a yawn. 'One last thing to cross off the list.'
In passing through the church he informed the others that Ioben and Galqarin were heading to the Blue Water Inn and told them he would meet them there when his business with Father Lucian at the orphanage was concluded.
'After you, Father.' Sandu let the priest take the lead and followed suit.
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Valerie decides to take a bit more quiet time in the church contemplating about what have happened in the past tenday and what will happen next.
She would stay in the church for about an hour then she would go and find the inn.
Ioben's Insight check:
You contemplate why such a lady would ever approach you; could it be some sort of trap? Might they want something from you? But no, you convince yourself that it must have been your winning smile and natural charisma that caused Lady Othibelle to approach you. Besides, you are a man of opportunity, and this is too good a situation to pass up. As far as you are able to tell the ladies look pretty harmless.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Late Evening - Day 5 - St. Andral's Orphanage (Milivoj's Room)
Sandu, Dormark & Baern - You watch as Ioben and Galqarin head off towards the Blue Water Inn, looking to arrange for a place to stay the night. The Father gathers you all together, "Thank you Sandu," he says glumly, "I do feel a little tentative about approaching Milivoj regarding the theft. I am glad you will all be with me."
As a group you make your way to the Orphanage, moving through it's large front doors; the emptiness of the place, with none of the children present, creates a sense of unease. You move down the now familiar corridor, through the main lounge, and to Milivoj's bedroom. As you enter you are struck that the ambience of the place has greatly improved since you were last in the room - no longer is there the smell of death, or the nervous tension of Ms Belasco. Sitting up in his bed is a lot healthier looking Milivoj, a candle lighting his significantly less pale face.
"I thought I mighta got a visit." He says sheepishly, unable to look the Father in the eye. "This about those old bones?" he asks with a tone of resignation. The Father places his elderly hand against the wall, propping himself up, looking as though his age was catching up with him. "What have you done?" he hisses, his voice hoarse and angry tears falling from his eyes, "I trusted you!"
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Late Evening - Day 5 - St. Andral's Church (Main Hall - Front Pew)
Valerie - You lose yourself in contemplation and prayer, desperately seeking answers to the questions floating around your mind. Minutes feel like seconds and you barely notice the comings or goings of those around you.
You are not quite sure how long you found yourself waiting on that front pew. Since entering the land of Barovia you have felt the link between Tyr and yourself become strained - for this was an evil land, where a different God reigned. Just when you feel that all hope was lost, as you were about to head to the Blue Water Inn, you feel an odd sensation in your mind; a calmness that brings a sense of order to your thoughts.
In your minds eye you see a man standing with long flowing white hair, sunken blind eyes, holding up his right arm which ends in a stump - you know this figure... Tyr, the Maimed God. Joy fills your heart as the revelation lifts your spirits. Tyr's right arm beckons you, calling you over, wordlessly he points. Images stream through your mind as your spirit flies from the church, over the darkened landscape of Vallaki. You see Ioben walking along the cobbled streets, speaking with a strange woman, you go to fly towards him but Tyr's spirit guides you away, the nearby street lamps flicker as you whizz past.
You fly northwards to the centre of a great lake, the moonlight shining off it's surface - Lake Zarovich. A single row-boat can be found paddling across the surface. Tyr's spirit stops suddenly and points down towards the water. You see a glowing light below the surface of the lake, it is bright and celestial. The Maimed God looks at you and smiles. There is a splooshing sound of water as the light below the waves starts rising. The light proceeds to break the water's surface and shoot up towards Tyr. Once it comes into view you realise that the light comes from a magnificent looking longsword.
Tyr's spirit turns to you and open's it's mouth, "You must retrieve it Valerie - it will help you on your journey." The voice is deep and filled with concern, "My time here is fleeting - I can't stay lo..." his words are suddenly cut short and you find yourself being whisked back towards your body, back towards the Church.
With a start you awaken, lying in the front pew of the main hall at the Church of St. Andral - you must have fallen asleep. A gentleman walks over, he is dressed in fine red-velvet clothes, you would guess him to be in his mid-thirties, with long dark flowing hair. "Are you alright?" He asks, concern in his voice. "I must admit it has been a while since I last set foot in this place. It can all be a little overwhelming, can't it?". He takes a seat next to you and looks around, "You know what though, now I am here - I think I quite like it. It has a certain feeling, a sanctity, does it not?"
"Oh, but where are my manners. My name is Vasili. Vasili Von Holtz, and I am pleased to meet you." He smiles and extends a hand.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
“Father, let us not let our emotions override why we have come here. What happened to the bones of the saint Milivoj? Do you realize what danger you invited to the church,” asks Dormark standing next to the bed.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Ioben sat back a little heavily That kiss had been intoxicating he could have only hoped, yet he had not expected Othibelle to be so forward. Women who acted like this in the taverns at home offered much but ended up taking more than they gave. Still Othibelle was not a lady like that. Her expression showed genuine interest.
Ioben tried to take in the names of the other women, but they flirted away as quickly as he heard them. Something about the names caught his attention though. It seemed strange that they were so similar to each other. Strange, but not the strangest thing he had met since he came to Barovia.
The other women soon left at Othibelles request. Ioben enjoyed the opportunity to sit and share a moment with such a beautiful Lady.
“You may not believe this, but I have not been in Barovia long. What is really strange is I couldn’t really tell you how I even ended up here. Have you met people who travel beyond the borders of Barovia? I would so like to know that I can get home.” Ioben looked into Othibelles eyes. “Not that I plan on leaving anytime soon, but I would like to know that when the time comes I can actually get there.”
Valerie does not response to the man at first. Her mind is filled with joy and worry. She is glad that she got a vision from her god, but she is not sure what happened. Why did the dream was interrupted? Was it Stradh's doing or something else?
She spends a few moment staring blankly at the wall, lost in her thoughts. Then she snaps back and turns to the stranger beside her. She looks at the extended hand then back to him. She slowly extend her hand. "I’m Valerie... Are you here for blessing? Father is not here."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
"I have never allowed my luck to liked to allow the roll of a dice to determine my path. Not when I can do something about it." Ioben listened intently to Othibelle. Her words tugged at his mind. Where was home? Surely he could live here, but...Ioben's mind snapped back to the orphanage and the creatures he had seen there. This was not his home and he could never live here. Not while the shadows hung so low over the land.
Ioben's heart seemed to stop. There was a chance. If Othibelle knew how to get out of here, surely the other's would do anything to get home, as he would. He couldn't wait to tell them. Looking around the room, he saw Galqrin at the bar, but he seemed happy for the moment. Besides, Galqrin had not come with them. He was home. This did not concern him and he probably wouldn't understand.
None of the others had arrived at the inn yet. Maybe that was for the best. He needed to get to know as much from Othibelle as he could before the others interrupted them.
"Life is a gamble. I have walked into a tavern with nothing but a few coppers and left with a pouch full of silver. I have also left at the end of a blade. But both made me truly feel alive. Can you say that about letting the tides carry you along?" Ioben thought for a moment before continuing to speak. "All I have is what you see before you. I have no power beyond what exists in my hands." The coin disappeared and reappeared. "To get home I would place even that on the table. There are times I feel powerless. There have been things I have seen here that I can do nothing about except run. I wish that were not the case. I wish I could protect those around me, I wish I could protect you, but a blade only does so much."
Ioben didn't know what else to say and looked around a little uncertain. He was not used to sharing his fears in this way. Where was that food? Picking up his cup he took a long drink and put it back down, looking at Othibelle.
"Compel to come? You must be a man of faith to get the calling?" Valerie asks. "But no. I was not drawn to here. I am new to this town. I just came across and decided to check it out."
Perception 14
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Valerie's Perception check:
From the look of Vasili's clothing you can quickly tell that he is an incredibly affluent man that clearly takes a lot of time and effort when it comes to presenting himself; you are certain the rings he wears upon his fingers are not 'dress' jewellery but likely the 'real deal'.
You also notice that his eyes occasionally wander to where Ireena is sitting and absent-mindedly adjusting his collar and hair. It appears as though he is a little taken with her, but likely to shy to make an approach.
Vasili smiles when you mention that he is a man of faith. "Well, I think faith is important for people to have in times of trouble. You mention that you are new to Vallaki? I'd say welcome to our fair town - it might not look like much, but it is home." he says warmly. "If there is any way in which I can help - all you need do is ask. I know how tough it can be for those finding themselves in unfamiliar surroundings."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Ioben took a moment to collect his thoughts. What had just happened? As quickly as she had appeared, Othibelle had whisked out again, leaving him dangling on words of potential. After a moment, he picked up his drink and drained it, before heading back to the bar. "Galqarin, I think I am ready to retire. Sleep would do me well. Do you mind waiting a while for the others? They might end up staying elsewhere, but we should give them a little longer." Then, turning to the man behind the bar he said, "If it's ok, I think I will take my meal to my room if you could direct the way."
Valerie smiles and nods. "I appreciate the welcome. But... I didn’t think you were from here at first. You... seem a little bit different from folk around here."