"Well, thank you for the warning." Dadeveth replies with a frown up at the abby. "Can we enter the city, and have a place to rest for the night? We would like to learn about these hardships you have been facing, and more about who will be arriving soon. As my companion has said, we may be able to give some aid in whatever is going on."
'That's unfortunate.' Sandu remembered his good upbringing and made a slight bow when the Burgomeister appeared. He did think it was a bit odd how the man was referred to and how he presented himself. The guards held clear deference for him but the Burgomeister coughed, bit his lip and looked at his feet while talking. Those were signs of someone being uncomfortable which, in most cases, meant the person was lying about something. Or at the very least not speaking the whole truth. Sandu knew because he had been busted a couple of times resulting from the same timid body posture. Then there was the issue of what he said. Or how he said it to be more accurate.
The others were already up in Burgomeister Krezkov's face about the topics he had brought up: the abbot was currently out of action, whatever that might be, there had been numerous incidents in the near past and Krezk was expecting refugees to pour in the coming days. The village was having quite the conundrum. Sandu only hoped it would not turn out to be the sequel to Vallaki.
But for now he was content to linger a bit back and let the others take the lead. More information was always welcome.
Galqarin - "There have been ill-goings on there," the Burgomaster says. As you enquire about the people affected, you notice his eyes fall downward. He takes a long pause, you initially believe he is ignoring the question. "My son." his voice cracks and croaks as he responds, much of his noble veneer falling away. ((Please make a further Persuasion attempt to gain more information regarding the happenings at the Abbey)).
Dormark - You see a deep look of relief wash over Dmitri. "That reminds me, where are my manners? Please, let us go discuss matters further within my cottage,"he gestures to a large, quaint, looking cottage. "You are all most welcome."
"Besides, it's away from prying eyes,"he mutters under his breath as he leads you.
Dadeveth - It seems like Dmitri is used to meeting all sorts of adventurers in Krezk, he waves you towards his cottage. "Certainly, there are many that can provide shelter whilst you stay in the village." He gives you an appraising look, clearly believing that you may be of assistance. "Your arrival here might be a blessing, several issues currently plague Krezk."
Cerio - Dmitri looks taken aback ((Insight check please)) by your outburst. "Not here," he hisses under his breath, "I trust my men but not prying eyes." His gaze looks up towards the large, foreboding Abbey. "That's right, plenty of room for you all to stay."
Sandu - The burgomaster smiles broadly as you pay respect. "Thank you," he says, "you are most welcome in Krezk. I can offer you all some lunch if that is agreeable." ((Insight check please))
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Insight: 16
Cerio frowns. Clearly things in Krezk aren't as rosy as he had hoped. The imposing abbey looming above the village seems a source of consternation among these locals. And this burgomaster Krezkov seems fearful of being heard even at this distance. What is going on in that place?
"Well, lunch does sound pretty good," he adds, rubbing his grumbling tummy. "Maybe with a draught o' wine or beer if ya have it."
Mid-Afternoon - Day 7 - Krezk Burgomaster's Cottage
"Excellent,"Dmitri says as he claps Cerio on the back, "follow me if you please." He directs you to his dwelling, outside there is ample room for pigpens and chicken coops ((Perception checks for any that would be checking out the exterior of the cottage)). Inside the cottage is homely yet comfortably decorated. Dmitri bids for you all to follow him into a large living room with a large mantlepiece and cushioned chairs.
Moments later, a woman in a thick, winter dress enters the room, the bags under her eyes suggest that she has not been sleeping well, or perhaps mourning. Dmitri places a hand gently on her back and introduces his wife, Anna Krezkov ((image)). She smiles and greets you warmly, though it is clear that she is putting on a brave face.
((Anna Krezkov))
"Welcome to our home,"she says kindly."Please make yourself comfortable. I'm afraid that the food may not be much but times have been hard of late." The Krezkovs proceed to lay a rustic yet delicious lunch of cold meats, cheeses, and crusty bread. A thick, chestnut bitter is available to drink (so thick in fact that you would swear it almost had lumps of something in it) as well as a wine called, "Red Dragon Crush", which has been sourced from the Wizard of the Wines winery.
Above the mantlepiece hangs a painting that unmistakably depicts the Krezkovs surrounded by four children. However, there are no signs or sounds of children currently in the cottage. At times during your conversation, you find Anna's eyes drift towards the painting, a deep sense of longing and loss writ upon her face. Throughout, Dmitri holds his wife's hand and looks at her unerringly, his face the picture of compassion.
"A series of ill events has beset our family of late,"Dmitri starts. He turns to Galqarin, his eyes softening, and continues. "Our son, Ilya, went missing from his room some seven days ago and has yet to be found. He is almost a man grown but would not have run away." Anna tries to maintain her composure, yet tears begin to drop down her face. "He was indeed suffering from an illness at the time." Dmitri breaks eye contact, choosing to stare vacantly at the floor ((further Insight checks please)). "We do not know who took him or where he currently is but sightings of werewolves have increased in recent weeks."
Struggling to hold his emotions together, Dmitri shakes his head. "This came in the wake of our youngest child, Alana, dying two months earlier." At this point, Anna buries her head in her arms and weeps inconsolably. "She had been the victim of a horrific werewolf attack." Dmitri coughs, attempting to hide his grief. "Even worse, when Anna last went to check on her grave she found..." he stops, the memory becoming too much for him.
He breaths deeply and wait for what feels like an eternity before continuing. "She found that the grave had been disturbed and our Alana's body missing... among others."
Ireena moves next to the grieving couple and places her arms around them. "You have surely had to endure every parent's worst nightmare," she says sympathetically. "Has there been no sign of Ilya? No message or ransom?"
It is clear that the Burgomaster is a man that respects hierarchy and expects others to respect his position. Addressing him bluntly looks to have agitated him somewhat and would clearly be a way of upsetting him.
Your attempted manners and good graces seemed to greatly please the Burgomaster. Though he does not strike you as being an arrogant man, he seemingly respects hierarchy and likes the fact that you at least tried to be polite and respectful. You get the feeling that if you adopt a similar tone moving forward it would help get in the Burgomaster's good books.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Cerio Insight: 17
Cerio tears into the meat and cheese, slurping on the rich bitter unceremoniously. "Mmmmm. S'real good!" If others give him wayward looks, he just shrugs. A feller's gotta eat!
"Er... Burgomaster,"Cerio says between mouthfuls, trying to correct his previous faux pas. Crumbs fall into his tunic. Manners were never his card.
"Werewolves. Graverobbers. And you was keen not ta talk 'bout this outside yer house. Do ya suspect someone in town is ta blame? One of yer own?"
"Hmm your son illness what were the symptoms, anything you could share might help. Also, bodies are going missing? Where there any clues found around the grave," asks Dormark.
'It would be improper to refute an invitation.'Sandu gave another small bow to the Burgomeister and followed him and the others as they were brought to the Burgomeister's home. It was a cottage rather than a mansion and the pigpens and chicken coops surrounding it gave Sandu the impression that Krezkov got his position on merit rather than fortune. If that were the case, perhaps the man would be more inclined to sympathise with them. The simple but plentiful meal only strengthened his opinion.
'It is plenty, thank you.' Sandu replied to the woman of the house before seating himself at the table. He found himself sitting next to Cerio who teared into the meal without much decorum. He took a couple of moments to observe the man before shaking his head. 'Manners maketh man.' Sandu muttered loud enough for Cerio to hear in between slurps. He then made deliberate, calculated gestures to grab a napkin, knife and fork. The orphanage he came from was not anything fancy but Miss Esther would not let that be an excuse to eat like a pig from a trough. Sandu did not know all the proper etiquette rules, or rather he had forgotten some of the more obscure ones, but he knew enough to get by.
'Truly terrible to hear.' Sandu remarked when the topic of the Krezkov children came up. It was a sincere remark: children held a soft spot in Sandu's heart and what had transpired in Vallaki had tested him. If there was but a tiny chance to save those still alive, they would have to take it with both hands. 'It might be troubling to recall but the grave: was it dug open from the outside or the inside?'
Sandu dabbed the corners of his mouth with his napkin to wipe away some crumbs. 'And what about your other children?'He let his cutlery rest beside his plate in anticipation of the Krezkovs' answer.
Cerio - Ordinarily you may expect that the Burgomaster would be taken aback by your lack of etiquette. However, Dmitri, too preoccupied to care, merely looks defeated. "I... hope not," he shrugs, "that is to say - I do not believe a fellow Krezekian would betray me. Though..." he pauses, searching for the words to say, "I have been approached by the Abbot in recent days. The man, if that is truly what he is, normally keeps to himself, locked up in the Abbey. Whether it was his intent or not, he implied that he was able to not only find Ilya but also restore..." his voice cracks, "restore our Alana to us."
"Foul, unnatural magic,"Anna says, for the first time making eye contact since her tears. "Whatever the Abbot has in mind is no force for good. Perhaps..." she pauses and eyes your weaponry keenly. "You might be able to investigate the Abbey... if it is the Abbot that took both Ilya and my sweet Alana..." she lets the thought hang in the air.
"They would be placing themselves at great peril,"Dmitri says, finishing his wife's thought. "But... perhaps investigations might confirm our suspicions."
You get an overwhelming sense of grief and deep loss emanating from both parents. However, perhaps bizarrely, you feel like Dmitri, at least, is holding something from you; particularly concerning the nature of Ilya's illness.
Before entering the cottage with the Burgomaster something catches your attention. The doors to the cottage's cellar on the south side appear to be badly damaged - they are splintered and bent. What's more, you believe that the door has been broken outward, as though some large man, or animal, has smashed their way out.
Insight
You get an overwhelming sense of grief and deep loss emanating from both parents.
Cerio wipes his mouth with his sleeve. “Uh, Master Krezk. This Abbot seems awful interested in the deceased and the sick. What was tha… tha way of Ilya’s sickness?”
Dormark - "Well,"Dmitri starts. "He was a pasty, pale colour... or perhaps that is to say he lost his colour. His strength was... uhhh... weakened and he was b-b-bedridden." Anna covers her face with her hands. "Well... the graves were dug up. One of my men did mention something about finding a preponderance of twigs and pin needles in the area around Alana’s grave,"he allows himself a moment before continuing, "that is despite there being a lack of non-flowering plants in the area around the shrine. Perhaps it is nothing... or perhaps it is a clue left by the grave-robbers."
Before entering the cottage with the Burgomaster something catches your attention. The doors to the cottage's cellar on the south side appear to be badly damaged - they are splintered and bent. Could it be the signs of a break-in... or perhaps of something breaking out?
Insight
You get an overwhelming sense of grief and deep loss emanating from both parents.
Sandu - No sooner than you chastise Cerio for his manners than you notice the corners of Dmitri's mouth curl up in a smile. "Respect," he says, smoothing his trousers, "is the cornerstone on which all relationships must be built. Decency is a guiding path that all can walk. And, finally, courtesy, is a common ground, a meeting place where friends and rivals alike can share ideas. Without these things we are no better than the animals that prowl the night." He looks at you knowingly.
He pauses, contemplatively, lost in his thoughts. "I can think of no more, save what I told Dormark. Though, perhaps that would be the best place to start your investigations. Regarding your candour concerning whether the graves were broken into or out from, I have lived in this land long enough to know why you ask. In this case, it was clear that the graves were dug up, rather than escaped from."
When you bridge the topic of the other Krezkov children, the Burgomaster goes deathly quiet, staring beyond you into the distance. "Adal and Etzebeth both died around the age Ilya is now,"the voice is Anna's and sounds hollow and empty. "Both from the same sickness, a curse..."
"Anna!" Dmitri interrupts, a commanding note in his voice. "The ailment that has afflicted all our children, save Alana. Neither of us has any idea as to its origins."
"Hmm well we can look into this matter for you if you would like us to, but we probably need to look around if that is alright with you. Also, could you tell us more about the current Abbott. Also, for my Dwarf friend here, have you met any female dwarfs in the town," says Dormark.
"Hmm well we can look into this matter for you if you would like us to, but we probably need to look around if that is alright with you. Also, could you tell us more about the current Abbott. Also, for my Dwarf friend here, have you met any female dwarfs in the town," says Dormark.
Sandu nearly spat out his drink at the forwardness of his friend's inquiry.
Dormark - Dmitri nods along earnestly as you agree to assist him, thankful for the show of support. As you mention finding a dwarven lady for Baern, he smiles broadly. "I am afraid it has been several years since we had an abundance of dwarven ladies within Barovia. Though I am sure a charming bachelor such as yourself has scant issue in that regard," he says jokingly.
Anna chuckles in spite of her grief, allowing herself a sheepish grin and a coy wink at Baern. The dwarf turns bright red and coughs uncomfortably. "Ah-well-thank ye... that is t'say I'm not --uh-- currently lookin' for a... oh, uh, oh dear."
Ireena bursts out laughing and comes to Baern's rescue. "I think what dear Dormark was suggesting is that our friend Baern here might be looking for a missing person," she explains.
"Y-yes, thankin' you Ireena," Baern says, straightening his overcoat. "M' mother is believed t' 'ave come this way. 'er name is Diesa... Diesa Stonebrok... if y' 'ave any information I ----"
Anna lets out an audible gasp, quickly covering her mouth. "Diesa!"her voice is breathy. "Wasn't she..."
Dmitri nods gravely and turns to Baern. "I am so sorry, Baern." once more a deep sadness enters the Burgomaster's eyes. "Diesa, did come this way. She left her own mark of sorts on Krezk; her optimism and creativity were second to none."
"I d-don't un'erstand,"Baern says meekly, shaking his head. "Wh-wha' d'ya mean, 'sorry'?"
"Baern. Diesa died in Barovia. The last I heard she fell in defiance of Strahd, outside the gates of Ravenloft. She had assembled a group willing to oppose the Count only..." Dmitri stops, contemplating whether to continue.
Baern Stonebrok looks up, his eyes wide, fighting back the grief.
"Well, from what Anna and I heard, she was betrayed by one of her companions," he says, pausing to let the words sink in. "No one is sure exactly who turned, or for what reason, but they know that Diesa was not slain by Strahd's forces but, rather, by an ally's poisoned blade. Her body was recovered and taken to the village of Barovia."
Looking to change the topic to more positive memories, Anna quickly interjects. "You know she stayed with us for a while? She was wonderful with the children. Left a couple of items here - I would like for you to have them, Baern." She totters off and retrieves a couple of well-carved wooden toys as well as an ornate book with a usual locking device on its spine. "No one knew how to open it," she explains when she hands Baern the book. "Besides it looked personal and after what happened... well it didn't feel right."
Baern sits slumped in his chair, staring blankly at the items in his hands, drained of all mirth. Ireena and Ismark attempt to comfort him.
Dmitri pulls you aside and speaks in hushed tones out of respect for Baern. "Apologies, I thought it best he knew," he explains. "You asked about the Abbot? In truth, know one knows who or what he is. It is said that he came to the abbey over a hundred years ago, yet if you were to see him you would not guess him to be a day over 30. No one knows his true name or the extent of his power but... it is suspected that he may be in league with Strahd or," he lowers his voice further, "the devil himself, in disguise."
"The abbey was once a hospital and convent," Dmitri further explains, "but the constant torment by Strahd's minions served to twist and destroy the clergy's minds. Written accounts from the time suggest that some of them resorted to cannibalism." The burgomaster shudders. "No one visits the place anymore. But the abbey’s bell rings at odd times, day and night... and, if you listen closely, baleful screams and horrible, inhuman laughter can be heard emanating from behind its walls. It is why I warn people from going near the place, and also why I was so afeared when the Abbot paid me a visit."
Sandu - "I have but a slim hope that Ilya yet lives,"Dmitri says. "He is my one surviving heir, should he have perished." The burgomaster shakes his head dismissively, not allowing himself to entertain the possibility that his son is dead.
Dallid - "Unfortunately,"Dmitri says, bleakly, "it was my daughter's -- Alana's -- body that was recently taken from its burial place next to Krezk's shrine. The sickness afflicted Adal, Etzebeth, and Ilya at different times, but at similar ages. Unfortunately, it claimed both Adal and Etzebeth, but Ilya looked like he was overcoming it. That was before he was whisked away in the night -- my last surviving child, abducted." He covers his face with his hands.
"Well, thank you for the warning." Dadeveth replies with a frown up at the abby. "Can we enter the city, and have a place to rest for the night? We would like to learn about these hardships you have been facing, and more about who will be arriving soon. As my companion has said, we may be able to give some aid in whatever is going on."
"What kinda incidents?" Cerio blurts out.
'That's unfortunate.' Sandu remembered his good upbringing and made a slight bow when the Burgomeister appeared. He did think it was a bit odd how the man was referred to and how he presented himself. The guards held clear deference for him but the Burgomeister coughed, bit his lip and looked at his feet while talking. Those were signs of someone being uncomfortable which, in most cases, meant the person was lying about something. Or at the very least not speaking the whole truth. Sandu knew because he had been busted a couple of times resulting from the same timid body posture. Then there was the issue of what he said. Or how he said it to be more accurate.
The others were already up in Burgomeister Krezkov's face about the topics he had brought up: the abbot was currently out of action, whatever that might be, there had been numerous incidents in the near past and Krezk was expecting refugees to pour in the coming days. The village was having quite the conundrum. Sandu only hoped it would not turn out to be the sequel to Vallaki.
But for now he was content to linger a bit back and let the others take the lead. More information was always welcome.
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 - "There have been ill-goings on there," the Burgomaster says. As you enquire about the people affected, you notice his eyes fall downward. He takes a long pause, you initially believe he is ignoring the question. "My son." his voice cracks and croaks as he responds, much of his noble veneer falling away. ((Please make a further Persuasion attempt to gain more information regarding the happenings at the Abbey)).
Dormark - You see a deep look of relief wash over Dmitri. "That reminds me, where are my manners? Please, let us go discuss matters further within my cottage," he gestures to a large, quaint, looking cottage. "You are all most welcome."
"Besides, it's away from prying eyes," he mutters under his breath as he leads you.
Dadeveth - It seems like Dmitri is used to meeting all sorts of adventurers in Krezk, he waves you towards his cottage. "Certainly, there are many that can provide shelter whilst you stay in the village." He gives you an appraising look, clearly believing that you may be of assistance. "Your arrival here might be a blessing, several issues currently plague Krezk."
Cerio - Dmitri looks taken aback ((Insight check please)) by your outburst. "Not here," he hisses under his breath, "I trust my men but not prying eyes." His gaze looks up towards the large, foreboding Abbey. "That's right, plenty of room for you all to stay."
Sandu - The burgomaster smiles broadly as you pay respect. "Thank you," he says, "you are most welcome in Krezk. I can offer you all some lunch if that is agreeable." ((Insight check please))
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Insight: 16
Cerio frowns. Clearly things in Krezk aren't as rosy as he had hoped. The imposing abbey looming above the village seems a source of consternation among these locals. And this burgomaster Krezkov seems fearful of being heard even at this distance. What is going on in that place?
"Well, lunch does sound pretty good," he adds, rubbing his grumbling tummy. "Maybe with a draught o' wine or beer if ya have it."
(Galqarin's persuasion: 17)
"Your son?", queries Galqarin, concern evident in his voice. "Has he sickened? Is he at the Abbey?"
Insight check 14
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
Dadeveth nods and follows after the others as they move towards the cottage.
Mid-Afternoon - Day 7 - Krezk Burgomaster's Cottage
"Excellent," Dmitri says as he claps Cerio on the back, "follow me if you please." He directs you to his dwelling, outside there is ample room for pigpens and chicken coops ((Perception checks for any that would be checking out the exterior of the cottage)). Inside the cottage is homely yet comfortably decorated. Dmitri bids for you all to follow him into a large living room with a large mantlepiece and cushioned chairs.
Moments later, a woman in a thick, winter dress enters the room, the bags under her eyes suggest that she has not been sleeping well, or perhaps mourning. Dmitri places a hand gently on her back and introduces his wife, Anna Krezkov ((image)). She smiles and greets you warmly, though it is clear that she is putting on a brave face.
"Welcome to our home," she says kindly. "Please make yourself comfortable. I'm afraid that the food may not be much but times have been hard of late." The Krezkovs proceed to lay a rustic yet delicious lunch of cold meats, cheeses, and crusty bread. A thick, chestnut bitter is available to drink (so thick in fact that you would swear it almost had lumps of something in it) as well as a wine called, "Red Dragon Crush", which has been sourced from the Wizard of the Wines winery.
Above the mantlepiece hangs a painting that unmistakably depicts the Krezkovs surrounded by four children. However, there are no signs or sounds of children currently in the cottage. At times during your conversation, you find Anna's eyes drift towards the painting, a deep sense of longing and loss writ upon her face. Throughout, Dmitri holds his wife's hand and looks at her unerringly, his face the picture of compassion.
"A series of ill events has beset our family of late," Dmitri starts. He turns to Galqarin, his eyes softening, and continues. "Our son, Ilya, went missing from his room some seven days ago and has yet to be found. He is almost a man grown but would not have run away." Anna tries to maintain her composure, yet tears begin to drop down her face. "He was indeed suffering from an illness at the time." Dmitri breaks eye contact, choosing to stare vacantly at the floor ((further Insight checks please)). "We do not know who took him or where he currently is but sightings of werewolves have increased in recent weeks."
Struggling to hold his emotions together, Dmitri shakes his head. "This came in the wake of our youngest child, Alana, dying two months earlier." At this point, Anna buries her head in her arms and weeps inconsolably. "She had been the victim of a horrific werewolf attack." Dmitri coughs, attempting to hide his grief. "Even worse, when Anna last went to check on her grave she found..." he stops, the memory becoming too much for him.
He breaths deeply and wait for what feels like an eternity before continuing. "She found that the grave had been disturbed and our Alana's body missing... among others."
Ireena moves next to the grieving couple and places her arms around them. "You have surely had to endure every parent's worst nightmare," she says sympathetically. "Has there been no sign of Ilya? No message or ransom?"
"None," Dmitri responds, crestfallen.
Cerio's Insight from before:
It is clear that the Burgomaster is a man that respects hierarchy and expects others to respect his position. Addressing him bluntly looks to have agitated him somewhat and would clearly be a way of upsetting him.
Sandu's Insight from before:
Your attempted manners and good graces seemed to greatly please the Burgomaster. Though he does not strike you as being an arrogant man, he seemingly respects hierarchy and likes the fact that you at least tried to be polite and respectful. You get the feeling that if you adopt a similar tone moving forward it would help get in the Burgomaster's good books.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Cerio Insight: 17
Cerio tears into the meat and cheese, slurping on the rich bitter unceremoniously. "Mmmmm. S'real good!" If others give him wayward looks, he just shrugs. A feller's gotta eat!
"Er... Burgomaster," Cerio says between mouthfuls, trying to correct his previous faux pas. Crumbs fall into his tunic. Manners were never his card.
"Werewolves. Graverobbers. And you was keen not ta talk 'bout this outside yer house. Do ya suspect someone in town is ta blame? One of yer own?"
(Galqarin's perception & insight: 23, 8)
perception 18
insight 8
"Hmm your son illness what were the symptoms, anything you could share might help. Also, bodies are going missing? Where there any clues found around the grave," asks Dormark.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
'It would be improper to refute an invitation.' Sandu gave another small bow to the Burgomeister and followed him and the others as they were brought to the Burgomeister's home. It was a cottage rather than a mansion and the pigpens and chicken coops surrounding it gave Sandu the impression that Krezkov got his position on merit rather than fortune. If that were the case, perhaps the man would be more inclined to sympathise with them. The simple but plentiful meal only strengthened his opinion.
'It is plenty, thank you.' Sandu replied to the woman of the house before seating himself at the table. He found himself sitting next to Cerio who teared into the meal without much decorum. He took a couple of moments to observe the man before shaking his head. 'Manners maketh man.' Sandu muttered loud enough for Cerio to hear in between slurps. He then made deliberate, calculated gestures to grab a napkin, knife and fork. The orphanage he came from was not anything fancy but Miss Esther would not let that be an excuse to eat like a pig from a trough. Sandu did not know all the proper etiquette rules, or rather he had forgotten some of the more obscure ones, but he knew enough to get by.
'Truly terrible to hear.' Sandu remarked when the topic of the Krezkov children came up. It was a sincere remark: children held a soft spot in Sandu's heart and what had transpired in Vallaki had tested him. If there was but a tiny chance to save those still alive, they would have to take it with both hands. 'It might be troubling to recall but the grave: was it dug open from the outside or the inside?'
Sandu dabbed the corners of his mouth with his napkin to wipe away some crumbs. 'And what about your other children?' He let his cutlery rest beside his plate in anticipation of the Krezkovs' answer.
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
Cerio - Ordinarily you may expect that the Burgomaster would be taken aback by your lack of etiquette. However, Dmitri, too preoccupied to care, merely looks defeated. "I... hope not," he shrugs, "that is to say - I do not believe a fellow Krezekian would betray me. Though..." he pauses, searching for the words to say, "I have been approached by the Abbot in recent days. The man, if that is truly what he is, normally keeps to himself, locked up in the Abbey. Whether it was his intent or not, he implied that he was able to not only find Ilya but also restore..." his voice cracks, "restore our Alana to us."
"Foul, unnatural magic," Anna says, for the first time making eye contact since her tears. "Whatever the Abbot has in mind is no force for good. Perhaps..." she pauses and eyes your weaponry keenly. "You might be able to investigate the Abbey... if it is the Abbot that took both Ilya and my sweet Alana..." she lets the thought hang in the air.
"They would be placing themselves at great peril," Dmitri says, finishing his wife's thought. "But... perhaps investigations might confirm our suspicions."
Cerio's Insight check:
You get an overwhelming sense of grief and deep loss emanating from both parents. However, perhaps bizarrely, you feel like Dmitri, at least, is holding something from you; particularly concerning the nature of Ilya's illness.
Galqarin's Perception & Insight checks:
Perception
Before entering the cottage with the Burgomaster something catches your attention. The doors to the cottage's cellar on the south side appear to be badly damaged - they are splintered and bent. What's more, you believe that the door has been broken outward, as though some large man, or animal, has smashed their way out.
Insight
You get an overwhelming sense of grief and deep loss emanating from both parents.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Cerio wipes his mouth with his sleeve. “Uh, Master Krezk. This Abbot seems awful interested in the deceased and the sick. What was tha… tha way of Ilya’s sickness?”
Dormark - "Well," Dmitri starts. "He was a pasty, pale colour... or perhaps that is to say he lost his colour. His strength was... uhhh... weakened and he was b-b-bedridden." Anna covers her face with her hands. "Well... the graves were dug up. One of my men did mention something about finding a preponderance of twigs and pin needles in the area around Alana’s grave," he allows himself a moment before continuing, "that is despite there being a lack of non-flowering plants in the area around the shrine. Perhaps it is nothing... or perhaps it is a clue left by the grave-robbers."
Dormark's Perception & Insight checks:
Perception
Before entering the cottage with the Burgomaster something catches your attention. The doors to the cottage's cellar on the south side appear to be badly damaged - they are splintered and bent. Could it be the signs of a break-in... or perhaps of something breaking out?
Insight
You get an overwhelming sense of grief and deep loss emanating from both parents.
Sandu - No sooner than you chastise Cerio for his manners than you notice the corners of Dmitri's mouth curl up in a smile. "Respect," he says, smoothing his trousers, "is the cornerstone on which all relationships must be built. Decency is a guiding path that all can walk. And, finally, courtesy, is a common ground, a meeting place where friends and rivals alike can share ideas. Without these things we are no better than the animals that prowl the night." He looks at you knowingly.
He pauses, contemplatively, lost in his thoughts. "I can think of no more, save what I told Dormark. Though, perhaps that would be the best place to start your investigations. Regarding your candour concerning whether the graves were broken into or out from, I have lived in this land long enough to know why you ask. In this case, it was clear that the graves were dug up, rather than escaped from."
When you bridge the topic of the other Krezkov children, the Burgomaster goes deathly quiet, staring beyond you into the distance. "Adal and Etzebeth both died around the age Ilya is now," the voice is Anna's and sounds hollow and empty. "Both from the same sickness, a curse..."
"Anna!" Dmitri interrupts, a commanding note in his voice. "The ailment that has afflicted all our children, save Alana. Neither of us has any idea as to its origins."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
"Hmm well we can look into this matter for you if you would like us to, but we probably need to look around if that is alright with you. Also, could you tell us more about the current Abbott. Also, for my Dwarf friend here, have you met any female dwarfs in the town," says Dormark.
Dormark Calling of Strahd (warforged cleric) 4
'My condolences.' Sandu solemnly replied. 'I did not mean to dredge up such memories.'
He picked up his knife and fork and resumed his meal.
Sandu nearly spat out his drink at the forwardness of his friend's inquiry.
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Dallid takes notes of their description of illness, and the grave robbing.
"Were they sick at the same time or one at a time? What makes Alana different? I would like to see her."
Paladin - warforged - orange
Late-Afternoon - Day 7 - Diesa
Dormark - Dmitri nods along earnestly as you agree to assist him, thankful for the show of support. As you mention finding a dwarven lady for Baern, he smiles broadly. "I am afraid it has been several years since we had an abundance of dwarven ladies within Barovia. Though I am sure a charming bachelor such as yourself has scant issue in that regard," he says jokingly.
Anna chuckles in spite of her grief, allowing herself a sheepish grin and a coy wink at Baern. The dwarf turns bright red and coughs uncomfortably. "Ah-well-thank ye... that is t'say I'm not --uh-- currently lookin' for a... oh, uh, oh dear."
Ireena bursts out laughing and comes to Baern's rescue. "I think what dear Dormark was suggesting is that our friend Baern here might be looking for a missing person," she explains.
"Y-yes, thankin' you Ireena," Baern says, straightening his overcoat. "M' mother is believed t' 'ave come this way. 'er name is Diesa... Diesa Stonebrok... if y' 'ave any information I ----"
Anna lets out an audible gasp, quickly covering her mouth. "Diesa!" her voice is breathy. "Wasn't she..."
Dmitri nods gravely and turns to Baern. "I am so sorry, Baern." once more a deep sadness enters the Burgomaster's eyes. "Diesa, did come this way. She left her own mark of sorts on Krezk; her optimism and creativity were second to none."
"I d-don't un'erstand," Baern says meekly, shaking his head. "Wh-wha' d'ya mean, 'sorry'?"
"Baern. Diesa died in Barovia. The last I heard she fell in defiance of Strahd, outside the gates of Ravenloft. She had assembled a group willing to oppose the Count only..." Dmitri stops, contemplating whether to continue.
Baern Stonebrok looks up, his eyes wide, fighting back the grief.
"Well, from what Anna and I heard, she was betrayed by one of her companions," he says, pausing to let the words sink in. "No one is sure exactly who turned, or for what reason, but they know that Diesa was not slain by Strahd's forces but, rather, by an ally's poisoned blade. Her body was recovered and taken to the village of Barovia."
Looking to change the topic to more positive memories, Anna quickly interjects. "You know she stayed with us for a while? She was wonderful with the children. Left a couple of items here - I would like for you to have them, Baern." She totters off and retrieves a couple of well-carved wooden toys as well as an ornate book with a usual locking device on its spine. "No one knew how to open it," she explains when she hands Baern the book. "Besides it looked personal and after what happened... well it didn't feel right."
Baern sits slumped in his chair, staring blankly at the items in his hands, drained of all mirth. Ireena and Ismark attempt to comfort him.
Dmitri pulls you aside and speaks in hushed tones out of respect for Baern. "Apologies, I thought it best he knew," he explains. "You asked about the Abbot? In truth, know one knows who or what he is. It is said that he came to the abbey over a hundred years ago, yet if you were to see him you would not guess him to be a day over 30. No one knows his true name or the extent of his power but... it is suspected that he may be in league with Strahd or," he lowers his voice further, "the devil himself, in disguise."
"The abbey was once a hospital and convent," Dmitri further explains, "but the constant torment by Strahd's minions served to twist and destroy the clergy's minds. Written accounts from the time suggest that some of them resorted to cannibalism." The burgomaster shudders. "No one visits the place anymore. But the abbey’s bell rings at odd times, day and night... and, if you listen closely, baleful screams and horrible, inhuman laughter can be heard emanating from behind its walls. It is why I warn people from going near the place, and also why I was so afeared when the Abbot paid me a visit."
Sandu - "I have but a slim hope that Ilya yet lives," Dmitri says. "He is my one surviving heir, should he have perished." The burgomaster shakes his head dismissively, not allowing himself to entertain the possibility that his son is dead.
Dallid - "Unfortunately," Dmitri says, bleakly, "it was my daughter's -- Alana's -- body that was recently taken from its burial place next to Krezk's shrine. The sickness afflicted Adal, Etzebeth, and Ilya at different times, but at similar ages. Unfortunately, it claimed both Adal and Etzebeth, but Ilya looked like he was overcoming it. That was before he was whisked away in the night -- my last surviving child, abducted." He covers his face with his hands.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)