Valerie - Unfortunately you do not hear the commotion from outside the church. You check the Father's pulse and he is still very much alive, just currently unconscious. As you cradle him in your arms he seems to be coming around.
Galqarin - Your ploy seems to be initially working and a couple of the guards begin to approach Dormark. However, as soon as his voice booms out they quickly back off.
Dormark - Please can you make an Intimidation check with advantage; the guards will have a very low DC, but Izek's is likely to be substantially higher.
Dormark, Galqarin & Sandu - You can tell from the look on the guard's faces that they have never seen a sight such as this before - they are petrified; currently, a large metal construct is shouting at them in a booming voice and invoking the name of the Morning Lord. They have stopped advancing and are currently looking to Izek for guidance. Izek's face is the reverse - he looks unphased and exudes a mixture of disdain and anger.
"A bully and a flunky?" Izek says, calculatingly,"These are mere words looking to bait me into attacking you - I will not. If it is the Burgomaster you wish to see then I believe our goals are mutual." He turns to the guards,"Give them their space, we shall 'escort' them to the reformation centre. There they shall answer for their crimes against the Vallaki."
You can see a small crowd starting to form around the church, drawn by the commotion. Rather than Izek, the crowd's fearful glances are directed your way. Izek addresses them, his voice wringing with false platitudes, "Please, good people - let us not stand around idly. These outsiders to our town have agreed to accompany us to the reformation centre and answer for their crimes. Spare a thought for poor Henrik this day, his trust and welcoming nature have been his undoing."Izek sighs in mock grief,"Though we must not let fear and hatred enter our hearts. Remember - ALL WILL BE WELL." The final phrase rolls off his tongue routinely, as though rehearsed.
Dormark - ((Indeed)) You can tell that Izek's commands fall on deaf ears as the guards seem more concerned/intimidated by you. When Izek tells the guards to give you some space you notice that they are more than eager to oblige, not wanting to get within striking distance. Furthermore, a number of the guards keep looking around, checking potential escape routes, as their natural instinct of fight or flight sets in.
“Why do you still stand here? Do you mean to continue this folly? This sin will mark your souls, a hard and dark mark you may never atone for. Do you not fear the where your souls may go if you continued this path of sin? You may believe in the Morning Lord, but that is all for not if you don’t follow his tenets. So do not cross this entryway with violence in your hearts, or you will be condemned by your god,” says Dormark pointing his finger at the door.
“And I have not agreed to your terms. I’ve only met you but you use honeyed words and lies to manipulate the masses, those are the marks of evil. The gods have seem fit to mark you for your sins, showing the monster behind the man,” he says holding his hands out to the to the skies.
“I will defend this church, though it be not of mine own. For that is what Moradin would will me to do. Those of who come to worship you may still do so. But the moment violence enters these halls you will have to deal with me a divine creation of the god Moradin. I his creation will see justice done,” he says he begins pointing at the guards.
”Now go do your real job of defending the people, or you may continue this folly may the Morning Lord have mercy on your souls,” Dormark
Looking back to the sky Dormark says, “Moradin ask the Morning Lord to forgive me. I may have to send some of his children back for judgement.”
He than repeats the same phrase in Dwarvish for everyone to hear.
He then repeats the phrase in a language nobody has here him speak. His deep voice takes on a melodious tone, beautiful but haunting. The meaning of the words still understood by all as he speaks celestial to the heavens. Has he finishes this phrase his spiritual weapon appears in the air just floating above his head revealing its full glory.
(Dormark will use thaumaturgy through his speech to keep up his performance. I don’t normally post this long but since it is pretty much a sermon he his giving I thought it appropriate.)
Late Morning - Day 6 - Outside St. Andral's Church
Izek looks unfazed by Dormark's speech, but you notice the guards retreating behind him. Moments later more guards come into view, by this time most of the town watch is assembled, believing a fight is not far off. Izek claps his hands mockingly,"A fine speech... fine indeed. I am sure this Moradin fellow would be proud."He smirks and looks towards the guards, a couple of which return his grin.
"Let me offer you an ultimatum - you, or a representative, attend the reformation centre to answer for the crimes you are accused of, OR you leave Vallaki instantly and never return. Enough games. I-." Izek is momentarily cut off by a figure from the crowd. The man steps forward, he is well dressed in fine red-velvet clothes and has long dark flowing hair,"Gentlemen, gentlemen, please. I am sure this is a misunderstanding that can be easily resolved by calmer minds."
Izek shoots a look at the man, uncertainty in his gaze,"Von Holtz, this is guard business - I do not see how an accountant could possibly...". Once more Izek is cut off, this time with a simple wave of the man's hand,"Come now Mr Strazni, causing such a ruckus in the streets of Vallaki has made this everyone's business. From what I can tell the outsiders seem to be more than happy to answer your questions; they just ask that they be able to do so without the rough treatment and that you leave the church be. Reasonable requests, all things considered."
"Pah!"Izek says, enraged,"and I guess you would be able to vouch for them in the meantime."He says, a wicked grin on his face,"Should any more 'incidents' occur."
Vasili Von Holtz stands tall, "As a matter of fact - I will. These outsiders have every right to answer these accusations without your heavy-handed approach. What we do not want are innocent visitors to this town accosted in the street by guardsmen without being found guilty of any crime. Are we Vallakians so morally corrupt that we would accept one man to play judge, jury and executioner?" This time Vasili asks the crowd, many of which look down sheepishly. "Izek, the Baron will get what he wants. But, it shall be done with civility and within the law."
Staring daggers at Vasilli, Izek proceeds to whisk around on the spot and address the guardsmen, "What are you men gawping at! Mr Von Holtz has given me his personal promise that these outsiders," he emphasises the word venomously,"will answer the accusations levelled at them. Back to your posts!". You watch as he makes his way to Vasili, clearly in a cold rage, he hisses"The Baron will hear of this - mark my words." With that, he proceeds to storm off down the street from whence he came, the rest of the guard in tow.
"I am sorry about that,"Vasili says cheerfully at you, clearly unworried by Izek's threats, "I do find that Mr Strazni to be most incorrigible. I am afraid that a visit to Baron Vargas is necessary to clear up this whole misunderstanding."
As soon as Izek leaves Dormark seems to calm down. The spiritual weapon fades and the thamaturgy ends.
“Thank you for your help, it seems that the city was going to fall on us for a crime we didn’t commit,” he says to the man.
”Raven, you, Ioben, and Baern stay here. One of you should stand guard outside in case Izek or the guards come back.Maybe check on the Father and Valerie, see how they are doing. Sandu come with me to the Burgomaster’s house,” says Dormark looking back to the man.
“I’m sorry to bother you again, but could you lead us to the Burgomaster’s house? I’m afraid we don’t know where it is,” he says bowing his head towards the man.
Sandu unfurled his fist. It had been clenched up ever since the situation got tense and nearly out of hand. Perhaps he should count himself lucky that someone interfered on their behalf: a man clearly of high standing if his word alone was enough to make the guards stand down. Maybe the kindness of strangers had not yet faded completely from the land of Barovia.
'Much obliged.' Sandu said to the stranger. 'Were it not for your timely intervention, this would have turned ugly.'
Sandu gave a small bow to the man. Going by his clothes and well-kept hair, the man must be a cut above the rest of the townfolk. Aristocrat to be sure but why would someone of that position speak up on behalf of complete strangers. Perhaps he was a rival to the local baron and this was the opportunity he was looking for?
'Not to sound ungrateful, sir, but why help us out?' Sandu asked politely. 'Abrasive as they were, they were right about us being outsiders. Why stick your neck out against that man?'
Vasili sighs, "Vallaki did not always use to be so unaccepting of guests. I am afraid that as years have gone by people have become increasingly more mistrusting of those they perceive as 'different'. Why stick my neck out? Because I can. Because I could see that the situation would likely become - what was the phrase you used - 'Ugly'. There are many in Vallaki that do not agree with the hard-handed measures that a certain Baron has brought in."
He shakes his head a little,"I am sorry for not intervening earlier. However, I have seen what Izek does to those he disagrees with and could see the tide was turning. I have my suspicions about why this whole scene played out as it did."
Taking Sandu and Dormark to the side, Vasili lowers his voice, "I suspect that a brazen accusation and confrontation was an attempt to test you. Either you would show compliance and meet with the Baron - something I suspect was his goal. Or, you would attack the guard and provide them with a legitimate reason to 'remove' you from the town."He stops briefly to consider his words before continuing,"When you meet the Baron you must attempt to refrain from outbursts; he values his reputation above all and can be easily angered. I shall lead you to his residence, he will not attempt anything without his loyal dog - sorry Mr Strazni - present."
Vasili proceeds to lead both Sandu and Dormark through Vallaki. It is clear to notice that news of what has transpired this morning has spread around town; people give the group a wide berth and cast sideways glances. You pass Blinsky's Toys en route to the Burgomaster's mansion, the shop looks closed as you pass. After a few minutes, you approach a large mansion; it has walls of plastered stone that display many scars where the plaster has fallen away from age and neglect. Drapes cover every window, including a large, arched opening above the mansion’s double entrance doors."Our esteemed Baron Vagas's (the Burgomaster's) mansion. Would you rather I wait for you outside, or..?"Vasili lets his question trail off.
Galqarin, meanwhile, calls to Ismark that it is safe to unbar the door. He then goes in search of the Father and Valerie to explain what has transpired.
Galqarin - You watch as Ismark peaks his head around the door, "Ahh Gal-, sorry Raven... What's going on? Is everyone alright?". You hear a loud sliding sound as he unbars the door and lets you inside. Ireena, overwhelmed by the moment, flings her arms around you in a hug. "Oh Galqarin - what's wrong? Is this because of me?" she asks, clearly upset.
You make your way through the church and down to the 'secret' chamber beneath the altar. A worrying sight greets you as you see Valerie desperately cradling a barely conscious Father Lucian; crusted blood is caked around his eyes and ears. Next to Valerie lies the sack you removed from Henrik's shop/house.
Late Morning - Day 6 - Vallaki Burgomaster's Mansion
((Baron Vargas Vallakovich's Mansion))
Dormark & Sandu - Vasili nods his head at Dormark's words and guides you through to the once-proud building. After a couple of knocks on the worn door-knocker, the door to the mansion opens and you are greeted by an elderly maid. Taking the lead, Vasili explains your reasons for visiting the burgomaster; the maid seems to know Vasili and quietly guides you through the house.
As you enter you are greeted by a grand foyer, framed portraits (likely previous generations of the Vallakovich family) adorn the walls, the maid leads you past a wide staircase with a sculpted railing. A long, carpeted hall attached to the foyer stretches almost the length of the mansion and has several doors leading away from it, including one at the far end. You notice that there are bundles of twigs heaped against the walls; the maid explains that these are for an upcoming festival -"The Festival of the Blazing Sun", held in the Morning Lord's honour.
Passing through the first door on your right you enter a cosy, carpeted small room with padded chairs and couches lining the walls. The room reeks of pipe smoke, and mounted on the east wall is the head of an angry-looking brown bear; its grim visage dominating the room - "Surely an attempt to unnerve his guests,"Vasili whispers to you under his breath. "Please make yourself comfortable and help yourself to any drinks,"the maid says pointing towards a table with a decanter sitting on it,"The Baron will be along shortly." The maid's manner is stiff and awkward, creating a sense of unease. She leaves you alone in the room.
"Drink?"Vasili offers, as he moves to pour himself a glass.
“Though I like a good drink, I would like my head clear to face the Baron, but please enjoy it in my stead,” says Dormark taking a seat in the sturdiest chair he could find.
Valerie finds a place for the Father to lie down and tries some simple treatment hoping she can find out what is happening to him. "Father, how are you feeling?"
Dormark -"I may just have a small glass,"Vasili says, pouring the wine,"Good for the nerves, you know."You take a seat on the sturdiest chair you can find - fortunately, the chairs here look expensive and well-made, more than capable of taking your weight.
Valerie - The father's face is pained, "I am sorry Valerie, what happened? Saint Andral's remains? Is the church safe?". You are able to tell that the father's injuries do not look serious but were likely the result of immense strain. It leaves you certain that removing the bones, in their current state, from the stone coffin was the wisest move - almost as though the coffin was rejecting the desecrated remains.
Galqarin - You are present for father Lucian's return to consciousness. He looks in a weakened state but appears to be coming around.
Valzes sighs in relief. "It already passed." She holds the bag up. "But the bones… it cannot be put here in it current stat. We need to find a way to remove the curse."
She looks at the bag, pondering what to do with it. She surely cannot leave the bag with the father. However, keeping it with her will certainly not bode well for her. She looks at it for a long seconds and finally decide to tie the bag tight and puts it into her backpack. If anything happened, let it be on her. At least, she has some means to deal with it.
She turns to the father. "How do you feel, right now?… I will help you to your room." She take father to his room.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Sandu followed Vasili and Dormark on their way to the burgomaster's manor. His thoughts were already racing all over the place, mostly concerned with how the confrontation with said figure would proceed. He had met enough authority figures to know that none of them looked favourably on having their authority challenged. And if you factored in that they were outsiders who quite literally strolled into town the day before, their chances were not looking great.
He glanced at the fellow they trailed behind. If you were to call Sandu cynical, he would not try to correct you. As such he did not believe that their guide Vasili von Holtz had intervened out of pure altruism. Sandu appreciated the aid but he did not believe the man had no ulterior motive in doing so. The man had regal bearing, or at the very least did not look as drab as every Barovian he had seen so far, and clearly had previous encounters with the Baron they were to meet. Perchance Vasili was vying for the position himself and he saw their little group as a potential means to that end?
Whatever the case might be, Sandu contented himself for the moment with silently following the others into the burgomaster's home. He did take stock of the maid. If you wanted to know the measure of a man, do not judge him by how he treats his peers but those beneath him.
Sandu took a seat in the waiting room. He politely declined a glass. He would need his wits about him lest the entire village would turn on them at the burgomaster's whim.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
(I got a 13 on advantage I think that may be enough for the guards.)
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Dormark - ((Indeed)) You can tell that Izek's commands fall on deaf ears as the guards seem more concerned/intimidated by you. When Izek tells the guards to give you some space you notice that they are more than eager to oblige, not wanting to get within striking distance. Furthermore, a number of the guards keep looking around, checking potential escape routes, as their natural instinct of fight or flight sets in.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
“Why do you still stand here? Do you mean to continue this folly? This sin will mark your souls, a hard and dark mark you may never atone for. Do you not fear the where your souls may go if you continued this path of sin? You may believe in the Morning Lord, but that is all for not if you don’t follow his tenets. So do not cross this entryway with violence in your hearts, or you will be condemned by your god,” says Dormark pointing his finger at the door.
“And I have not agreed to your terms. I’ve only met you but you use honeyed words and lies to manipulate the masses, those are the marks of evil. The gods have seem fit to mark you for your sins, showing the monster behind the man,” he says holding his hands out to the to the skies.
“I will defend this church, though it be not of mine own. For that is what Moradin would will me to do. Those of who come to worship you may still do so. But the moment violence enters these halls you will have to deal with me a divine creation of the god Moradin. I his creation will see justice done,” he says he begins pointing at the guards.
”Now go do your real job of defending the people, or you may continue this folly may the Morning Lord have mercy on your souls,” Dormark
Looking back to the sky Dormark says, “Moradin ask the Morning Lord to forgive me. I may have to send some of his children back for judgement.”
He than repeats the same phrase in Dwarvish for everyone to hear.
He then repeats the phrase in a language nobody has here him speak. His deep voice takes on a melodious tone, beautiful but haunting. The meaning of the words still understood by all as he speaks celestial to the heavens. Has he finishes this phrase his spiritual weapon appears in the air just floating above his head revealing its full glory.
(Dormark will use thaumaturgy through his speech to keep up his performance. I don’t normally post this long but since it is pretty much a sermon he his giving I thought it appropriate.)
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Late Morning - Day 6 - Outside St. Andral's Church
Izek looks unfazed by Dormark's speech, but you notice the guards retreating behind him. Moments later more guards come into view, by this time most of the town watch is assembled, believing a fight is not far off. Izek claps his hands mockingly, "A fine speech... fine indeed. I am sure this Moradin fellow would be proud." He smirks and looks towards the guards, a couple of which return his grin.
"Let me offer you an ultimatum - you, or a representative, attend the reformation centre to answer for the crimes you are accused of, OR you leave Vallaki instantly and never return. Enough games. I-." Izek is momentarily cut off by a figure from the crowd. The man steps forward, he is well dressed in fine red-velvet clothes and has long dark flowing hair, "Gentlemen, gentlemen, please. I am sure this is a misunderstanding that can be easily resolved by calmer minds."
Izek shoots a look at the man, uncertainty in his gaze, "Von Holtz, this is guard business - I do not see how an accountant could possibly...". Once more Izek is cut off, this time with a simple wave of the man's hand, "Come now Mr Strazni, causing such a ruckus in the streets of Vallaki has made this everyone's business. From what I can tell the outsiders seem to be more than happy to answer your questions; they just ask that they be able to do so without the rough treatment and that you leave the church be. Reasonable requests, all things considered."
"Pah!" Izek says, enraged, "and I guess you would be able to vouch for them in the meantime." He says, a wicked grin on his face, "Should any more 'incidents' occur."
Vasili Von Holtz stands tall, "As a matter of fact - I will. These outsiders have every right to answer these accusations without your heavy-handed approach. What we do not want are innocent visitors to this town accosted in the street by guardsmen without being found guilty of any crime. Are we Vallakians so morally corrupt that we would accept one man to play judge, jury and executioner?" This time Vasili asks the crowd, many of which look down sheepishly. "Izek, the Baron will get what he wants. But, it shall be done with civility and within the law."
Staring daggers at Vasilli, Izek proceeds to whisk around on the spot and address the guardsmen, "What are you men gawping at! Mr Von Holtz has given me his personal promise that these outsiders," he emphasises the word venomously, "will answer the accusations levelled at them. Back to your posts!". You watch as he makes his way to Vasili, clearly in a cold rage, he hisses "The Baron will hear of this - mark my words." With that, he proceeds to storm off down the street from whence he came, the rest of the guard in tow.
"I am sorry about that," Vasili says cheerfully at you, clearly unworried by Izek's threats, "I do find that Mr Strazni to be most incorrigible. I am afraid that a visit to Baron Vargas is necessary to clear up this whole misunderstanding."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
As soon as Izek leaves Dormark seems to calm down. The spiritual weapon fades and the thamaturgy ends.
“Thank you for your help, it seems that the city was going to fall on us for a crime we didn’t commit,” he says to the man.
”Raven, you, Ioben, and Baern stay here. One of you should stand guard outside in case Izek or the guards come back.Maybe check on the Father and Valerie, see how they are doing. Sandu come with me to the Burgomaster’s house,” says Dormark looking back to the man.
“I’m sorry to bother you again, but could you lead us to the Burgomaster’s house? I’m afraid we don’t know where it is,” he says bowing his head towards the man.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Sandu unfurled his fist. It had been clenched up ever since the situation got tense and nearly out of hand. Perhaps he should count himself lucky that someone interfered on their behalf: a man clearly of high standing if his word alone was enough to make the guards stand down. Maybe the kindness of strangers had not yet faded completely from the land of Barovia.
'Much obliged.' Sandu said to the stranger. 'Were it not for your timely intervention, this would have turned ugly.'
Sandu gave a small bow to the man. Going by his clothes and well-kept hair, the man must be a cut above the rest of the townfolk. Aristocrat to be sure but why would someone of that position speak up on behalf of complete strangers. Perhaps he was a rival to the local baron and this was the opportunity he was looking for?
'Not to sound ungrateful, sir, but why help us out?' Sandu asked politely. 'Abrasive as they were, they were right about us being outsiders. Why stick your neck out against that man?'
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
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Vasili sighs, "Vallaki did not always use to be so unaccepting of guests. I am afraid that as years have gone by people have become increasingly more mistrusting of those they perceive as 'different'. Why stick my neck out? Because I can. Because I could see that the situation would likely become - what was the phrase you used - 'Ugly'. There are many in Vallaki that do not agree with the hard-handed measures that a certain Baron has brought in."
He shakes his head a little, "I am sorry for not intervening earlier. However, I have seen what Izek does to those he disagrees with and could see the tide was turning. I have my suspicions about why this whole scene played out as it did."
Taking Sandu and Dormark to the side, Vasili lowers his voice, "I suspect that a brazen accusation and confrontation was an attempt to test you. Either you would show compliance and meet with the Baron - something I suspect was his goal. Or, you would attack the guard and provide them with a legitimate reason to 'remove' you from the town." He stops briefly to consider his words before continuing, "When you meet the Baron you must attempt to refrain from outbursts; he values his reputation above all and can be easily angered. I shall lead you to his residence, he will not attempt anything without his loyal dog - sorry Mr Strazni - present."
Vasili proceeds to lead both Sandu and Dormark through Vallaki. It is clear to notice that news of what has transpired this morning has spread around town; people give the group a wide berth and cast sideways glances. You pass Blinsky's Toys en route to the Burgomaster's mansion, the shop looks closed as you pass. After a few minutes, you approach a large mansion; it has walls of plastered stone that display many scars where the plaster has fallen away from age and neglect. Drapes cover every window, including a large, arched opening above the mansion’s double entrance doors. "Our esteemed Baron Vagas's (the Burgomaster's) mansion. Would you rather I wait for you outside, or..?" Vasili lets his question trail off.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Galqarin, meanwhile, calls to Ismark that it is safe to unbar the door. He then goes in search of the Father and Valerie to explain what has transpired.
Galqarin - You watch as Ismark peaks his head around the door, "Ahh Gal-, sorry Raven... What's going on? Is everyone alright?". You hear a loud sliding sound as he unbars the door and lets you inside. Ireena, overwhelmed by the moment, flings her arms around you in a hug. "Oh Galqarin - what's wrong? Is this because of me?" she asks, clearly upset.
You make your way through the church and down to the 'secret' chamber beneath the altar. A worrying sight greets you as you see Valerie desperately cradling a barely conscious Father Lucian; crusted blood is caked around his eyes and ears. Next to Valerie lies the sack you removed from Henrik's shop/house.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
"Izek come with guards and Dormark called on Moradin and then... What happen to Father Lucian?", blurts Galqarin.
“Might be better to have a man who knows the Burgomaster’s well help us speak on our behalf. We would welcome your help,” says Dormark.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Late Morning - Day 6 - Vallaki Burgomaster's Mansion
Dormark & Sandu - Vasili nods his head at Dormark's words and guides you through to the once-proud building. After a couple of knocks on the worn door-knocker, the door to the mansion opens and you are greeted by an elderly maid. Taking the lead, Vasili explains your reasons for visiting the burgomaster; the maid seems to know Vasili and quietly guides you through the house.
As you enter you are greeted by a grand foyer, framed portraits (likely previous generations of the Vallakovich family) adorn the walls, the maid leads you past a wide staircase with a sculpted railing. A long, carpeted hall attached to the foyer stretches almost the length of the mansion and has several doors leading away from it, including one at the far end. You notice that there are bundles of twigs heaped against the walls; the maid explains that these are for an upcoming festival - "The Festival of the Blazing Sun", held in the Morning Lord's honour.
Passing through the first door on your right you enter a cosy, carpeted small room with padded chairs and couches lining the walls. The room reeks of pipe smoke, and mounted on the east wall is the head of an angry-looking brown bear; its grim visage dominating the room - "Surely an attempt to unnerve his guests," Vasili whispers to you under his breath. "Please make yourself comfortable and help yourself to any drinks," the maid says pointing towards a table with a decanter sitting on it, "The Baron will be along shortly." The maid's manner is stiff and awkward, creating a sense of unease. She leaves you alone in the room.
"Drink?" Vasili offers, as he moves to pour himself a glass.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
“Though I like a good drink, I would like my head clear to face the Baron, but please enjoy it in my stead,” says Dormark taking a seat in the sturdiest chair he could find.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Valerie finds a place for the Father to lie down and tries some simple treatment hoping she can find out what is happening to him. "Father, how are you feeling?"
Medicine 22
Dormark - "I may just have a small glass," Vasili says, pouring the wine, "Good for the nerves, you know." You take a seat on the sturdiest chair you can find - fortunately, the chairs here look expensive and well-made, more than capable of taking your weight.
Valerie - The father's face is pained, "I am sorry Valerie, what happened? Saint Andral's remains? Is the church safe?". You are able to tell that the father's injuries do not look serious but were likely the result of immense strain. It leaves you certain that removing the bones, in their current state, from the stone coffin was the wisest move - almost as though the coffin was rejecting the desecrated remains.
Galqarin - You are present for father Lucian's return to consciousness. He looks in a weakened state but appears to be coming around.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Dormark sits patiently in the chair waiting for the Burgomaster to show up.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
Valzes sighs in relief. "It already passed." She holds the bag up. "But the bones… it cannot be put here in it current stat. We need to find a way to remove the curse."
She looks at the bag, pondering what to do with it. She surely cannot leave the bag with the father. However, keeping it with her will certainly not bode well for her. She looks at it for a long seconds and finally decide to tie the bag tight and puts it into her backpack. If anything happened, let it be on her. At least, she has some means to deal with it.
She turns to the father. "How do you feel, right now?… I will help you to your room." She take father to his room.
Sandu followed Vasili and Dormark on their way to the burgomaster's manor. His thoughts were already racing all over the place, mostly concerned with how the confrontation with said figure would proceed. He had met enough authority figures to know that none of them looked favourably on having their authority challenged. And if you factored in that they were outsiders who quite literally strolled into town the day before, their chances were not looking great.
He glanced at the fellow they trailed behind. If you were to call Sandu cynical, he would not try to correct you. As such he did not believe that their guide Vasili von Holtz had intervened out of pure altruism. Sandu appreciated the aid but he did not believe the man had no ulterior motive in doing so. The man had regal bearing, or at the very least did not look as drab as every Barovian he had seen so far, and clearly had previous encounters with the Baron they were to meet. Perchance Vasili was vying for the position himself and he saw their little group as a potential means to that end?
Whatever the case might be, Sandu contented himself for the moment with silently following the others into the burgomaster's home. He did take stock of the maid. If you wanted to know the measure of a man, do not judge him by how he treats his peers but those beneath him.
Sandu took a seat in the waiting room. He politely declined a glass. He would need his wits about him lest the entire village would turn on them at the burgomaster's whim.
OOC:
Insight check on the maid if allowed: 6
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Valerius Sergius Publius: Dhampir Paladin - Vae Victus
Galqarin will assist in conveyancing Father Lucien, still puzzled as to what has transpired.