IC: Curse of Strahd, Chapter 2: The Road to Vallaki

[Daishain]

On their way in to see the oracle, Kyran speaks in a low voice to his companions. "Be careful what you say, be careful of what you think you hear, and for the morninglord's sake, be respectful. This woman is not our ally, but she is not an enemy either. Please keep it that way and do not make the mistake of underestimating her for her appearance."

Kyran sits through the meeting in silence. When Madam Eva speaks of him, he touches his chest and looks thoughtful.

Afterwards, he'll try to strike up a discussion on the meaning of the portents made, hoping to gain some insight from it. "That last item almost certainly seemed to refer to Strahd, it sounds like we'll find him in the crypts of his castle. That's the obvious interpretation anyways, but I'm not seeing an alternate at present."

Making a History roll just in case K knows something about a castle beneath a mountain or some place with amber doors.
[roll0]

[The Commander]

Kyran:
You have no idea where this castle might be located or any place that has amber doors. The only castle you know of is Ravenloft and that is on top of a mountain, not below it.

[Spore]

Do not worry. The arcane can take its toll on a mind but if this whole realm speaks so highly of Madame Eva, I doubt she is a mad woman. Askan reassures Kyran. Then he enters.

If Madame Eva allows, he takes notes in a small black book of his.

***

He leaves the tent with a confused face. So the only solid lead we have is the Abbey where you might find your son's salvation. Finding my master is important but if we have a good idea where artifacts lie that could aid us heavily against Strahd, we have to take our chances. Askan turns to Oleg. One question though: Why would Eva help us against his perceived master Strahd?

[The Commander]

Madam Eva doesn't stop you taking notes.

(Are you asking Oleg directly?)

Oleg shrugs. "All Madam Eva does is speak the truth. It is what you do with that truth that defines it's usefulness." Oleg states, almost poetically.

[Minescratcher]

Erevan was silent throughout the meeting, though he stirred uneasily when Madam Eva addressed him directly.

Afterwards, he responded quietly to Kyran, "Neither do I, that seems to be our clearest lead. And there seems to be an artifact of holy power guarded by more of those scarecrows we faced, and perhaps the "amber giants" might refer to the amber doors she mentioned? I cannot imagine there could be enough amber, strange as this place is, to build many golems and doors from. And I should say, if we reach Strahd's crypts, that we ought to find the spirit of a knight there."

Does Erevan have any flashes of insight that I don't? Investigation: [roll0]
(I think something like this would be Investigation if I remember its purpose, but if you would like a different skill I can reroll or adjust)

[Daishain]

In response to Askan, Kyran nods and says, "We need to ask around about the rest I think, but the Abbey would be a solid start. I don't know for certain what we'll find, but if there's a chance..."

When he asks about Eva's loyalty, Kyran states, "The relationship between the Vistani and Strahd is... complicated. He favors their people for some reason. I don't know why, my people will claim several ridiculous things, from him having fallen in love with a Vistani once and the protection being a promise he made, to them all secretly being his accursed spawn. Nothing I've heard from the Vistani themselves leads me to believe they know for sure either."

"But while they're free to travel these lands, largely without fear, they're not blind, and they're not heartless. They can see what he does to us Barovians, even if most don't dare defy him."

[The Commander]

Erevan:
Although many parts of Madam Eva's reading were vague and ambiguous you reflect on what was said and come to the following thoughts:

The first card talked about knowledge and understanding your enemy. Your enemy, in this case, is clearly Strahd. The treasure Madam Eva spoke of may be some kind of secret weakness of Strahd, ways of predicting his actions or movements, or may give you more leads to follow up on. Her hint spoke of a small castle beneath a mountain, guarded by amber giants. Ravenloft is huge and sits on top of a mountain; however it is not the only mountain in Barovia. There is an even bigger mountain towards the South-West that stretches high into the sky - perhaps there is a castle underneath this mountain? There is also a smaller mountain towards the north (although still larger than Ravenloft).

It does not seem like coincidence that the third card also talked of amber. Perhaps the two locations are linked in some way? You are right to assume that amber is not a common material. Madam Eva called this treasure a weapon of vengeance: sword of sunlight. Whether she literally meant a sword of sunlight or not, it is clear she is referring to a weapon or device that can cause harm to Strahd.

With the second card Madam Eva mentioned a garden covered with a dusting of snow. You have not yet seen any snow in Barovia; however the terrain does incline towards the South-West (where the large mountain is situated) so it would not be unreasonable to assume the treasure lies in that direction. The treasure itself was mentioned to be a powerful force for good and protection, a holy symbol of great hope. From your brief discussions with Barovians (including Kyran) you know that many Barovians consider The Morninglord to be their salvation. Perhaps the treasure is some kind of protection granted by The Morninglord against Strahd or his minions.

The fourth card speaks of a spirit located within the castle crypts that Madam Eva mentioned could help you against Strahd. It has been mentioned that adventurers and other travellers have come to Barovia before - whether on purpose or by accident - and some have tried to take on Strahd. Perhaps this spirit is one who was not turned by Strahd; but failed in their quest to stop him. Madam Eva said that the spirit was a clumsy knight. Perhaps she is referring to poltergeist-like activity, or perhaps he was well known for his clumsiness, or his death was caused by a clumsy mistake. In any case, it seems important that Madam Eva has made the distinction that this particular knight was clumsy. Perhaps there are other spirits within the area that should not be stirred for one reason or another.

The fifth card is a clear reference to Strahd himself. Perhaps the location Madam Eva mentioned is Strahd's resting place or a place he frequents often; so if you sought him out you would be able to find him there. In any case, Madam Eva spoke of the dark pits within the castle, so it sounds likely that this location is within the lower areas of the castle.

You consider that the job of finding these treasures might be easier with the aid of a map or a guide of some kind.

[Minescratcher]

After considering, Erevan spoke up again.

"I think... I think our best bet might be that mountain to the southwest. She mentioned a castle under a mountain, and snow, and both of those seem likely that way. Does anyone happen to have a map?"

[Daishain]

"You mean Mount Ghakis? I suppose it is possible. I certainly can't speak to what lies beneath it. Neither I nor other barovians normally wander that far from the towns and roads. I'm sure you can understand why."

"As to a map, perhaps our hosts have a copy of one that could be obtained."

[Spore]

Is Krezk on the way? I would really hate to look for some trinkets and miss the chance to save Kyran's son. Ultimatively getting all this help is good, but at least my goal is to help not enact revenge.

[Daishain]

"Krezk is on the way actually, it sits on the road leading up to the mountain. Checking the one place we know for sure has something we need first would be quite possible."

[Spore]

Then this is our course of action - and travel.

Oleg, will you stay here? And you, Ismark? Will you stay here with Ireena?

[The Commander]

"I will travel elsewhere - as you've seen my people shun me and most Barovians distrust me. I much prefer to spend most of my time outside of these lands. It is so drab and dreary here! But it is my homeland, so it is nice to return sometimes; even if I am not always so welcome." Replies Oleg.

"We agreed to take Ireena to Vallaki, and that is what we shall do. Once she is safely there I will accompany you on your quest to defeat Strahd; if you would have me. Vallaki lies on the road towards Krezk anyway. What are you intending to find in Krezk? What did Madam Eva tell you?" Asks Ismark.

[Daishain]

"She claims that an ancestor of mine left something for me at the Abbey in Krezk, in the graveyard. One that could supposedly save my son, and one that would simply end his suffering. I do not wish to cleave to such hope as of yet, but such tools might be used against Strahd regardless."

[The Commander]

Ismark ponders for a moment and nods. "As I said, Vallaki is on the way to Krezk and it is a good place to rest and resupply anyway. Hopefully your ancestor left you something powerful!"

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 3 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 25/25 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha does not stop his glaring at the old woman as she talks to the group and reads her omens. She knows too much about him, and he does not like that. His past, and himself, tend to be very private and he doesn't like letting anyone into his circle. Erevan had to tear down quite a few walls to get to the inner Ciardha. And even that is fairly shallow compared to the rest.

After they are done he sits around the fire, off to the side and away from most of the other, and pulls out his journal. He listens to the others guesses and attempts at decoding the Old Woman's words as he writes down everything she said in his journal. He closes it, wraps it back up, and stares into the fire. He ponders long and hard what she said. He finally pipes up, "If there is a weapon that will help kill Strahd, we need it. Stopping along the way will only slow us down, but if it must be done, it must be done. Especially if it may save an innocent." Ciardha doesn't seems to keep objective about it, but clearly means Kyran's son. "But getting to this treasure with this weapon.....something that can help kill Strahd....that needs to be our priority. Anything we can collect to have a possible advantage over the Monster will only help him meet his dusty end all the sooner." Ciardha talks while staring into the fire, as if he sees something in there, or as if the fire is talking to him.

[Spore]

After Ciardha's comment Askan stays eeriely silent, then explains in a state of unnatural calmness: Jacob is a human, with a name and a whole life still before him. He is NOT an obstacle. Besides, if all it takes is a divine weapon to kill Strahd and remove the curse from this land, why wasn't this done before? I have seen a queen fall and another tyrant rise just in my youth, with rumors of murdered nobles every so often. No, there must be another reason why Strahd is in power. With a vampire's vast force of personality it is even difficult to keep your wits about you to strike even one blow. No, we need information, a good plan and also a formidable defense against both arcane and mundane threats.

He turns to face Ciardha: Jacob could have been in the grips of that monster. Maybe he can help us when we rescued him.

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 3 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 25/25 | Slots: 2/2

"There are many reasons why a weapon such as this hasn't killed Strahd yet. There hasn't been anyone brave enough to fetch it, or there hasn't been someone with the drive and fortitude to see through what needs to be done. The weapon alone cannot defeat Strahd...it needs a wielder with the same passion and want for Justice and vengeance that it has. Together they will cut through Strahd's minions and finally slay the monster that has Lorded over these lands for far too long. There doesn't need to be another reason the monster is in power. You may want another reason, but there doesn't need to be one." Ciardha pauses, "As for Jacob..... yes, he may still have a chance to be a person. That is all well and sentimental. But someone must say the hard truths. Are we here to save one boy, or are we here to save all of the children? Hate me if you want, there is no personal attack from me, but that is the truth of it." Ciardha then takes out his pipe, lights it up, and starts piping away at it. It is subtle, but when you see the smoke rise from the pipe or leave Ciardha's mouth, you swear the smoke looks like skulls.

[Daishain]

There is a pained expression on Kyran's face, but he forces it down. "Then we have a destination it seems. Let us rest, We still have a ways to go, and I doubt tomorrow's journey will be much more quiet than today's."

[Spore]

Askan puts his hand on Kyran's shoulder as if to calm him down. “Certainly. If he allows us, I will stay with Oleg since I am not interested in spending the night with servants of our enemy. Maybe you can tell me a few stories about all your family, not just Jacob.“

Askan smiles but his eyes are still fixated on Ciardha.

(Formatting tonight when I am home.)

[The Commander]

You swap any stories you wish and eat and prepare to rest; setting up any tents and bedrolls you may have. If you don't have a tent the Vistani don't object to you setting down a bedroll by the fire.

(Cross off a day's rations if you haven't already)

Anybody sat around or near the fire overhears this tale as told by one of the Vistani:

"A mighty wizard came to this land over a year ago. I remember him like it was yesterday. A very charismatic man, he was. He thought he could rally the people of Barovia against Strahd. He stirred them with thoughts of revolt and bore them to the castle en masse. When the vampire appeared, the wizard's peasant army fled in terror. A few stood their ground and were never seen again.

The wizard and the vampire cast spells at each other. Their battle flew from the courtyards of Ravenloft to a precipice overlooking the falls. I saw the battle with my own eyes. Thunder shook the mountainside, and great rocks tumbled down upon the wizard, yet by his magic he survived. Lightning from the heavens struck the wizard, and again he stood his ground. But when Strahd fell upon him, the wizard's magic couldn't save him. I saw him thrown a thousand feet to his death. I climbed down to the river to search for the wizard's body, to see if, you know, he had anything of value, but the River lvlis had already spirited him away.

I cannot remember his name... but he sounded important. Ah well...."

Oleg doesn't mind you sharing his tent again, Askan - you've probably had to share it's shelter before on the road. It feels a lot more comfortable than a regular tent, but not quite as comfortable as an actual room and bed.

There are still several Vistani awake around the bonfire by the time you're ready to turn in; but they seem content in their own evening activities.

In no time at all you find yourself drifting off to sleep.

In your dreams you play out all the possible meanings of the reading Madam Eva gave each of you and try to make sense of it. Ultimately the nature of dreams is ambiguity and vagueness. You do not discover anything new about the reading, but you feel more confident in yourself and your abilities for having made it this far and for now having a more defined focus for the future.



(Level up now, if you haven't already - this takes place after you rest)

You wake up in your own time and climb out of your bedroll/tent.

Oleg remains asleep, snoring loudly, for the time being (unless you want to wake him of course).

The bonfire seems to have been doused sometime in the night and all that remain are the blackened husks of the giant logs used to create it. A couple of Vistani are asleep in bedrolls around it's perimeter.

The morning, just like last morning, is hazy and the sun seems to barely shine upon the land as if it's power has been muted or stolen away. Still, it is a welcome change from the oppressive night of last night.

You spot Ismark sitting outside his tent, digging into some kind of breakfast rations. He is so busy devouring his breakfast that he doesn't notice you.

You begin to wonder where Ireena might be, but then you see her. Walking back from the lake edge, her armour removed (she is still wearing her fine clothes), her hair wet and glistening despite the weak sun; is a vision of beauty. She swishes her hair and little droplets of water flick from her head. She carries a small bag with her.

She notices you and waves: "Good morning!"

Ismark looks up from his food and calls out, his mouth still partially full of food, a greeting of his own that is garbled by the food.

Ireena climbs back into her tent and emerges a few seconds later without the small bag, but with some breakfast rations much like Ismark. Unlike Ismark, Ireena eats her food in a much more mannered way.

Perhaps you also break out some breakfast. Perhaps you decide to wash first, much like it seems Ireena did. Perhaps you pray or compulsively check all your equipment. In any case, you complete your morning rituals, whatever they might be.

By the time that is all done, a few of the Vistani are beginning to awake; Oleg included.

Very quickly you realise you are missing Nestor and Lucian. A brief panic ensues as you try to find out where they have gone. Shortly after this discovery Dmitri and Madam Eva approach you.

"Nestor and Lucian have left on their own quest. Rest assured they are safe for now. They will return when the time is right."

"You have my word that our clan had nothing to do with their sudden departure. Before he left, Lucian asked me to pass his gold over to you, for he will not be needing it."

(Dmitri gives you Lucian's 900gp that he had from Death House - it's all there if you do want to count it. It's up to you how you want to divide it. It would be 180gp five ways)

(One way or another you believe them/are forced to accept what they say - Nestor and Lucian are gone... for now at least)

Aside from the gold, the pair don't seem to have left anything else.



Eventually you finish packing your things, Ireena has armoured back up from this morning, and Oleg has hitched Mishka back up to the cart.

"I will travel with you back to the crossroads from earlier and then that is where we will part ways - I will return to the village to sell my wares and then move on to other lands." Oleg mentions, somewhat sadly.

The journey back to the crossroads is peaceful and, although still somewhat oppressive and claustrophobic by the closeness of the trees, it is still much better than travelling in the dark.

After a couple of hours you emerge from the woodland road and are within sight of the gallows again. Anything you may have seen yesterday is gone - the gallows just appear to be a frayed length of rope attached to the wooden beam.

Oleg pulls up the cart at the crossroads and helps you unload anything you may have been carrying on his cart. "This is where we must part ways. I have shown you the way to Madam Eva and she has shown you the way you must now travel. I cannot come with you on this journey. Follow the road towards the South-West. You should reach Vallaki in about 4 days. There is one final piece of advice I can give you: There is an Old Windmill on the road between here and Vallaki. It should be avoided at all costs! I cannot say more. I wish you good luck." Oleg accepts any handshakes or hugs or other farewells given and then he departs - travelling along the road to the East back towards the Village you came from yesterday. (He refuses to say any more about the Old Windmill)

"As Oleg says, if we follow this fork South-West we should reach Vallaki in 4 days. The Old Windmill he spoke of supplies grain to Vallaki, if I remember correctly. Perhaps something has happened there? Something that even he did not wish to talk about? In any case, we must still travel this road to reach any of our destinations. Let us press on."

And without further ado you press on.

(Need to make some rolls)

[The Commander]

The road to the South-West begins to incline and you feel yourself slowly going uphill. As you travel uphill you leave the woodland at the crossroad behind you and the road becomes open. The sense of claustrophobia you may have felt is alleviated.

After about an hour of travel along this gentle slope you spot a mounted figure riding towards you in the distance. You make preparations to hide or ready yourself to defend yourself. Soon enough the rider comes into view. Upon a skeletal warhorse, an equally skeletal rider sits; both clad in ruined chainmail. The skeletal rider holds up a rusted lantern that sheds no light. The warhorse gallops down the road and past you; completely ignoring you. If you were in the way it does it's best to ride around you, but otherwise doesn't seem to even acknowledge your presence. Unless you wish to attack it, it rides off back down the path you've come from. You're left to ponder this mysterious encounter for a moment until you move on.

You travel for another hour and a half. The forest returns here on both sides and that familiar feeling of oppression and mild claustrophobia return.

Just before you break the treeline Ireena spots something: "Look there! Do you see that?" You follow her direction and find a small leather pack hidden on the branch of a tree. Ismark picks it up and opens it. Inside are a set of common clothes, sized for a humanoid adult, in the style you've seen many Barovians wearing. There is nothing else inside the pack and no other distinguishing marks on either the clothes or the pack. You don't see anyone else in the immediate area (although if you want to make some rolls to investigate the area you are welcome to). "Should we leave this here or take it with us?" Asks Ismark. (What do you want to do with this pack/clothes?)

You continue on the road for another half an hour, the woodland all around you.

Suddenly a gaunt figure with wild hair and bare feet bounds out of the treeline on all fours, wearing a tattered gown of stitched animal skins. You can't tell whether it's a man or a woman. It stops, sniffs the air, and laughs like a lunatic. From behind this figure 4 twig-like monsters come creaking. They are about 15 feet away from you, having just burst through the treeline.

(Roll some initiative please)

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha is up and meditating before everyone gets up, for the most part, in his corner of the tent. He then dons his armor, leaves the tent, and summons his sword. He goes to the lake and starts to practice his fighting techniques. His moves are slow and deliberate, and he doesn't notice much else while he is doing this. He goes through each move, checking his posture and form with each move. He feels stronger and is glad for it. They would need to get stronger if they were to defeat Strahd. He dismisses his sword, returns to the camp, and gets ready to depart, packing his things together to start the journey again. When the others are ready to leave, he leaves with them, and travels along that odd, enclosed road they have been traveling on for what seems like weeks.

Oleg left them, but left Ciardha more worried than anything else. As Oleg rode off he turned to the other, "Anyone hear tales of this Windmill? And why would ol' Oleg be so secretive about it. Not that he isn't oddly secretive about stuff anyway. But he seems a bit dodgier with that one." He talks with the group as they continue on, "Should we stop and see what it is about? If there is some evil there that needs to be purged? I would hate to leave it behind us for other innocent travelers to...." Just as Ciardha was about to finish, a skeletal figure on a skeletal horse appears, seeming to be charging at the group, but before Ciardha can do anything about it, the rider shoots past them and disappears. Ciardha just looks in the direction the rider went, blinking for a moment, and shakes his head. "These lands are getting more crowded, more dangerous, and much weirder as time goes on....."

After traveling a bit, and finding the clothes, Ciardha mutters some words to himself and waves his hand in front of him. His eyes slightly glow with a fire inside of them and he takes a look at the bag. If nothing show up, he shrugs and indicates he does not care what is done with the clothes.

They travel a bit more and run into a.....creature of some manner. It seems to have ill intentions and some tree like creatures follow it out of the treeline. Ciardha calls up his sword from its resting place and readies himself for combat. "Here we go again."

Detect magic on the bag and clothes. If anything is found out, I'll edit that into this post.

Also Investigation roll for the pack [roll0] Well, that's not going to do much lol

[The Commander]

In response to Ciardha: "As far as I know it's just an old windmill that produces grain for Vallaki. Nothing particularly special about it. Although I hear it has a great view of the area."

(Kyran, since you are local you can make a Knowledge History Check if you wish to know more about the Old Windmill)

Ciardha:
Neither the bag nor the clothes are magical. Your investigations don't turn up anything else of note.

[Daishain]

Kyran looks at the bundle, "Someone left this here, anticipating a need for clothing when they returned. A werewolf perhaps? I'd be inclined to burn the bundle, increase the chances they will be caught by their peers, but the creature might follow us and retaliate somehow. Up to the rest of you if you think it worth the risk."

When attacked by the man and the things following him, Kyran fires at the semi human in the lead, thinking him to perhaps that would lessen the threat of this group.

Leveled up, I seem to primarily be contributing via the cannon at present, so I went ahead and maxed out his Dex. Also picked up the Alarm spell for very slightly safer camping.

Attack [roll0]
[roll1][roll2]

[Spore]

As the night becomes darker and stories get passed along that Strahd is not only a vampiric nobleman and commander, but also an arcanist. But gladly Askan has been come well prepared - until now he thought overprepared. But the happenings of today showed him that the effort was entirely necessary. Askan has an inquisitive mind and asks the Vistani much about the history of this land.

At the dawn of the new day, he finds the silent Lucian and the pious Nestor to be gone. After quick investigation he is informed that both took on their own quest. Curious timing but Askan feels somewhat vulnerable now, without the aid of a holy man, at the whim of a rhyming madman, if it comes to healing magic, and as the guy that holds off the beasts from Kyran. I believe you but their timing is less than ideal. They are fools to venture on their own. Times like these need unity more than anything else.

The group is quickly on the road and only stops to let the skeletal rider pass. Is this normal in your land, Kyran? the hunter asks. It sounds foolish but maybe we should investigate the windmill. I doubt the story was made up. But I feel no one is better equipped than us to stop any madness in there.

As Ciardha casts Detect Magic yet again, Askan can't help but blurt out: How can you cast this spell so often and without effort? I have seen mighty wizards struggle with moving objects with their magic, and yet you seem to do this at a whim. Who taught you? And is he or she willing to teach others? Askan sounds genuinely curious and not really accusing though if you know him he is probably weary that any source of magic could be a corrupt one as well.

As the twig men attack, he draws steel. I know these creatures from somewhere.

Nature check: [roll0]
Init: [roll1]
If I am quick enough, I'll prepare a counterattack. Prepared actions are still a thing, right?
Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[The Commander]

(Forgot to roll initiative for Ismark and Ireena!)

[roll0]
[roll1]

Kyran:
With regards to the Old Windmill:

Ismark was partially right, the Old Windmill used to supply Vallaki with grain. No longer though. You have heard rumours that evil creatures have taken up residence there. Worse - you hear that children are snatched and taken there; never to be seen again. You suspect that some of the children from the village have gone missing due to this evil, although you've never been witness to it. What strikes you as odd is that even the Vistani seem to be afraid of it; which they do not appear to be when it comes to Strahd and his minions. Perhaps something unaffiliated with the vampire lord dwells there; allowed to exist for some reason?

With regards to the creatures alongside the mad druid:

These things are called Twig Blights. A Twig Blight is an awakened plant that resembles a woody shrub that can pull its roots free of the ground. Its branches twist together to form a humanoid-looking body with a head and limbs (although you can clearly tell it's still a plant). They aren't particularly dangerous or intelligent creatures, although because of their small size (almost child-like) they can very easily overwhelm a single target. Brought to life by evil druidic power, they have no real will of their own and follow their creator around and obey them without question. They defend their creator to the death, unless told otherwise. They don't have 'eyes' or 'ears' as such, so they cannot be blinded or deafened, but they are still able to sense creatures that are within 60ft of them. Beyond 60ft they are unable to sense anything. Being plant-matter you know that, like most plants, they are vulnerable to fire, although normal weapons dispatch them just fine too. They're also not very strong or sturdy either. Their only redeeming quality is their ability to completely blend in with natural surroundings; making them an ideal ambush creature.

Askan:
The Vistani share with you the following that you did not already know (unless I've accidentally repeated something):

-Strahd comes from a royal bloodline. He died centuries ago yet endures as one of the undead, feasting on the blood of the living.
-Strahd has taken many consorts, but he has known only one true love: a Barovian peasant girl named Tatyana. No-one knows what became of her.
-Strahd named his castle, Ravenloft, after his beloved mother, Queen Ravenovia. Strangers aren't welcome at the castle without an invitation.
-Strahd conquered this land centuries ago and named it after his father, King Barov.
-The souls of those who die in Barovia can't escape to the afterlife. They are prisoners in Strahd's domain.
-Ravens carry lost souls within them, so killing one is bad luck. (Which Oleg also confirmed)

They also reveal to you:

During one of Strahd's military campaigns, years before he became a vampire, a group of Vistani rescued him after he was wounded in battle. These Vistani not only nursed Strahd back to health but also delivered him safely home. As a reward for their generosity, Strahd declared that all Vistani had the right to come and go from his land as they please, and this privilege extends to the present day. Thus, Vistani can travel freely through the fog that surrounds Barovia, without fear of harm or entrapment.

With regards to the creatures:

You wrack your brain trying to think where you've seen or heard of these creatures before. But can think of nothing. Twig... something or other? Twig Horror? Twig Construct? They look like they're made out of twigs at least; vaguely resembling small humanoids.

Prepared actions are indeed a thing. You state what action you want to hold in reserve and a trigger and then your action occurs when the trigger is fulfilled. If you're quick enough you may as well act and attack directly - preparing an action only really tends to be useful if you can't attack normally during a round to be honest.

[Irish Musician]

Looking at the Bag of Clothes

As Ciardha casts Detect Magic yet again, Askan can't help but blurt out: How can you cast this spell so often and without effort? I have seen mighty wizards struggle with moving objects with their magic, and yet you seem to do this at a whim. Who taught you? And is he or she willing to teach others? Askan sounds genuinely curious and not really accusing though if you know him he is probably weary that any source of magic could be a corrupt one as well.
Ciardha cracks a smile as Askan gets all hot and bothered by his magics, "My.....Benefactor showed me how to do this. When you are shown the way, it is a simple task. Wizards learn their magics from books. My magics come from different avenues, so my powers are not as weak as a wizards, though a bit more limited in some aspects." Ciardha sees the bag and clothes are useless, "Nothing of importance here," then turns back to Askan and continues. "My Patron might be convinced to share their secrets with someone. Though learning from them is not done lightly. It is something that you must convince them you deserve, or are approached by them as a chosen one. Either way, your conviction to learning, and obeying, needs to be strong and absolute."

[Spore]

Obeying, you say? I haven't seen you pray to any gods. Askan looks uneasy. I hope for your sake and ours, that you are not in league with Strahd or the forces that bind him here.

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha, for the first time since anyone of them have met him (eve Erevan), hear him give a loud, sizable laugh. One might almost call it.....jolly. "A servant of Strahd. There are many ridiculous things I've heard in my life. Things that defy logic and make you stretch your imagination to its limits. But to entertain the thought that I serve Strahd...." Ciardha chuckles again and shakes his head, "That is a world that will never be, nor by any stretch of anyone imagination, nor even if the gods themselves decreed it, would it ever come to pass." Ciardha chuckles again and just shakes his head, for he knows not what else to do. "As for not praying to any gods....gods are not the only ones with mighty power. If you look hard enough, there are other Benefactors out there that can, well, bless you with gifts. You can come to an agreement with them and in exchange for service, they can share certain....secrets with you."

Ciardha waves a hand at the clothes, as if he is dismissing them and already forgetting they exist. He turns to walk off with the others, and as he does he puts a hand on Askan's shoulder. "Askan, of all the horrors these lands hold, all of the terrible things that go bump in the night, all of the beings that are looking to destroy.....know this. That at least one of those nightmares is on your side and looking to use his horrors on Strahd and remove the evil from these lands." With that Ciardha walks away from Askan, starting down the trail again.

[Spore]

Just a straight answer for ONCE would be nice. Askan sighs.

[Minescratcher]

Erevan seemed to remain subdued by the events of the previous day, only added to by the departure of two companions and the ominous warning about the windmill. Even so, he stirred when the bag of clothes was found. "Or perhaps left in flight. Is there anything nearby?"

Somewhat belated Investgation: [roll0]

In response to Askan's sigh, Erevan chuckles. "He's always like this. Makes for an amusing trip sometimes."



As the creatures approach, Erevan readies his pike, pointing at the druid. He watches for an opportunity, then lunges forward, hoping to strike the apparent master of the twig-creatures.

Initiative: [roll1]
Attack on the druid:[roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[The Commander]

(You guys just win initiative, so you may go first and then the Druid and the Twiglets go next)

Erevan:
You spot/conclude several things from these clothes and the immediate area: The first is that these clothes have been worn before. They have also seen much better days, with rips and tears all over the garments. The rips and tears all seem to have been repaired with some care to try and mask the damage; although your detailed inspection allows you to see the true state of the clothing. There is also a large amount of hair both within the bag and on/around the clothing. The hair is thick, long, and dark in colour.

You notice that the tree the branch is connected to (that the bag was hanging from) has deep scratches on it. The area immediately around the tree also seems to have two sets of tracks (besides your own). One appears to match the shoes that accompany the set of clothing; which lead back to the road. The other set of tracks appear to be large paw prints in the mud; which come from the forest. Both tracks seem to intermingle and step within each other in close proximity to the tree. Worryingly, however, both sets of tracks terminate/begin at the bag.

Perhaps Kyran's initial assessment was correct?

Ever ready for danger, Kyran brings his weapon up and fires at the Druid. The bullet passes through the Druid's torso and splinters a nearby tree. The Druid holds it's chest and grunts in pain.

(Askan, do you want to attack or remain preparing a counter attack?)

Erevan stabs out with his pike, but the raving Druid side-steps out of the way, cackling.

(I'll wait and see if Kyril responds and posts, otherwise I'll NPC him. Ciardha what are you doing this round?)

[Spore]

Askan quickly checks the battlefield and tries to get to the human figure to engage him (?) in melee combat.

If rolls do not stay, please reroll them at your convenience. +5 to attack and 1d6+5 damage. If my roll is below 8 (for attacking, or 13 in total), I add 1d8 to my attack roll. If I hit him, I will add another 1d8 to damage.

If I am forced to engage the twiglets, I will not spend dice.

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha move to in front of the raggedy looking man, designating him as his target as he does. As he gets to him his blade lights up with a green fire and he attacks the man, flaming licking off the blade here and there.

Turn
Bonus - Hexblade curse the dude
Move - up to him
Standard - Green Flame Blade [roll0], Damage - [roll1], crit on 19 or 20, when he dies I gain 8 HP
If the attacks hits, one of the twig things within 5 feet of him get 4 fire damage

[The Commander]

I'll let you keep your roll in this instance.

Rolling Askan's extra damage: [roll0]

[The Commander]

You're not sure if this person is a man or a woman - they have long, shaggy brown hair that covers half their face. The other half of their face is coated in mud, dirt, tattoos and scarification. Their body is coated in a mess of mix-matched leathers and leaves; more for decoration than armament.

In any case, Askan approaches the Druid and drives his weapon into it. The crazed person tries to swipe at the monster hunter.

That's when Ciardha steps in. With the Druid impaled for a brief moment on Askan's sword, the Hexblade moves up and decapitates the Druid in one fell slice. The flames that lick off the blade catch on one of the Twig creatures just behind the Druid and it immediately bursts into flames - much as tinder would upon a fire. It crumples and burns to death in a matter of moments. Horrifically it mimes the death throes that you'd expect a normal humanoid to display, but no sound issues forth from it's quietly screaming mouth.

(Druid is dead, so if you gain Temporary Hit Points you gain them now)

Kyril, Ismark and Ireena draw their weapons and rush the remaining Twig creatures.

Kyril Rapier Attack: [roll0], Damage: [roll1]
Ismark Longsword First Attack: [roll2], Damage: [roll3]
Ismark Longsword Second Attack: [roll4], Damage: [roll5]
Ireena Longsword Attack: [roll6], Damage: [roll7]

Between the clashing and slicing of blades, the Twig creatures are quickly cut down; their corpses becoming almost indistinguishable from the surrounding foliage. You'd never know they were even here, had you not cut them down just a second ago.



The Twig creatures are nothing but plant matter and so have nothing of value.

The Druid has a gnarled quarterstaff, it's mix-matched leather and leaf clothing (which, when you inspect it, does not seem to confer any kind of protection whatsoever), some weird bone trinkets, a strange effigy - it looks like the twig creatures, only much smaller, inanimate and much less humanoid (think Blair Witch Project stick effigies), a few pouches full of leaves and stones and finally a small bag full of what appears to be very fine sand. Upon closer inspection you discover this Druid was a woman.

(Are you taking anything?)

"I have heard rumours that wild Druids roam the Woods and congregate somewhere. Where that is, I do not know. We should keep moving, just in case there are more nearby." Mentions Ismark, sheathing his sword.

After deciding what, if anything, to take, the remainder of your day goes without incident. You remain slightly on edge at the idea of another Druid encounter whilst travelling through the Woods, but you encounter none.

The path continues to slowly incline upwards and eventually the trees to your left disappear and are replaced with open plains. The trees to your right continue onwards with you as you travel the road.

Night begins to fall and you start to feel tired.

(How would you like to set up camp and do you plan to have a watch rotation or? Anything else you'd like to do whilst camping? Otherwise make sure you tick off another day's worth of rations)

[Daishain]

"Some of it might possess beneficial magic, let me confirm that before we toss this." If the others don't object, Kyran will gather it all up, and once they have a few minutes to stop, will perform a ritual to let him examine the objects in detail.

He will volunteer for a shift at watch.

Arcana check to identify item properties after Detect Magic ritual is complete [roll0]
Perception for watch shift [roll1]

[Spore]

Go on ahead, Kyran. I will watch the woods in the meantime. The hunter is slightly unsure if the druid wanted to attack them at all. He patrols around the combat area, fiddling with the one miniature twiglet he picked up. If this could fight for me once thrown, it'll be a pocket monster. Sounds amusing... While distracted with the watch, he absentmindedly plays with the effigy as if it were a puppet.

Just take my passive perception for that.

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha once again, to Askan's shagrin most likely, casts his spell so that he is able to see if anything is Arcane. The pieces he finds that have some magical potential to them, he picks out for Kyran to figure out later. "These things here are the ones that you would do well to inspect more. Everything else is mundane, superstitious nonsense."

When the reach the camp, Ciardha takes out his pipe and lights it, the smoke once again looking vaguely like skulls in the fire-light. He also takes out his journal and makes an entry for the day's events. Not being able to see his writing very well, he find a good, sturdy stick nearby. He then plants it in the ground and hands his waterskin from it. He then sits right in front of both of the objects, turns around, and touches the waterskin. It starts to glow with a bright light, which in turn illuminates his pages so that he can see to write. Once he is done, he puts up his Journal and waves a hand...the light disappearing as he does. Then he puts up everything and starts to meditate in front of the fire before going to bed.

Detect magic on the tidbits from the druid, and of course Light on the waterskin

[Minescratcher]

"Horrific enough for this place," Erevan commented. He took a long swig from a bottle at his side before moving on.

As they made camp, he volunteered for second watch, murmuring a prayer under his breath. When his watch came, he rested on his pike, staring absently into the darkness that surrounded him. If anyone was watching the watcher, they would have seen him sigh and glace at his sleeping comrades more than once, before turning back to pace the edges of the camp.

Perception: [roll0]

[The Commander]

You set up camp for the night. You begin your various evening rituals and examine the loot from the Druid.

The Druid's staff appears to be a functional, if barbaric, quarterstaff. Although not magical in itself, there are lingering magical elements within the wood, suggesting spells have been cast on it or through it.

The pouches full of leaves and stones also register as non-magical, but have traces of magic imprinted upon them. Since some of you are spellcasters, you recognise this to be a rudimentary form of spell-component pouch.

The 'armour' is completely non-magical; as are the bone trinkets.

The twig effigy that Askan decides to play with, much like the staff and spell-component pouch, isn't magical in itself, but appears that magic has been cast through it. Perhaps this effigy is used in some kind of Druidic ritual to create the Twig creatures you fought?

The pouch full of fine sand, however, does ping up on the magical spectrum. After some examination you come to conclusion that this is Dust of Disappearance (https://roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Dust%20of%20Disappearance#content). You have enough of it for a single use.



This is the first night you have spent truly alone in the wilderness of Barovia. It is not a pleasant experience.

Suddenly there is a clap of thunder, a flash of lightning, and sudden it begins to rain heavily. Funny... you didn't see much in the way of storm clouds earlier....

You take refuge just within the forest - still within sight of the road - for cover. The trees do actually do a good job of keeping most of the rain off of you. This seems to be offset, however, by the constant sound of snapping twigs and branches, and faint echoes of... howls? Screams? Whispers?

Those of you on watch get the distinct feeling you yourselves are being watched and you find yourself whipping around in the middle of the night as though you felt a presence behind you. But, alas, there is never anything there when you look.

Those of you trying to sleep fare little better - the paranoia and anxiety of sleeping in the wilderness of a land steeped in horror and death is incredible. Your dreams are shattered moments of insanity, punctuated by several startled awakenings and brief amnesia of your surroundings before you senses realign and you put yourself back to sleep.



Dawn comes. The rains cease. You are still alive. Is that a good thing or a bad thing?

You did not sleep well; but you are rested. Ismark looks especially dour and grumpy. Ireena, on the other hand, looks as though she's slept very well and awakens as vibrant and as lovely as ever. In her own way, she is the dawn - a face that brings a smile and a small amount of hope into your heart; even if you have your reservations about her.

You eat breakfast, pack up and move out.

(Rolling...)

[The Commander]

You follow the dirt road as it winds its way upwards for a couple of hours before reaching an arching bridge of mould-encrusted stone that spans a natural chasm. Gargoyles cloaked in black moss perch on the corners of the bridge, their frowns weatherworn. On the mountainous side of the bridge, a waterfall spills into a misty pool nearly a thousand feet below. The pool feeds a river that meanders into the fog-shrouded pines that blanket the valley. The scene sounds familiar to the location the Vistani described when relating the tale of the battle between the Wizard and Strahd. If that is so, this waterfall feeds the River Ivlis below.

Beyond the bridge the forest ends.

[roll0] - You all spot this passively

In a tree nearby you notice a large nest of bats. You also notice they appear to be awake and watching you.

(How do you wish to proceed? I need to know how you're crossing this chasm - e.g. are you all going at once? Sending one at a time? The bridge is big enough to fit several people side-by-side and is about 100ft across)

[Daishain]

Kyran stares back at the bats for a time. "Be wary, Strahd is watching."

When the group reaches the bridge, the artificer takes a look at the gargoyles. "I think I can tag those from here, make sure they're not going to move while we're crossing, if any are more than they appear. Shall I?"

Perception [roll0]

[Spore]

That is odd, aren't they supposed to hide during the day? Askan recalls his grandfather's stories about removing bats from nobles' attics. It was not advised since they are harmless and remove other critters like moths. But these ...things feel more eerie.

Askan looks at Kyran. He heard horror stories about living gargoyles but he thought that is nothing more than a creepy fairy tale. Are you serious or are you telling me the boogeyman hides behind the next corner? he adds jokingly, in a half-serious manner. He was wrong before.

Nature for the bats: [roll0]

[The Commander]

Kyran:
The gargoyles look to be your typical stylised squat demonic-looking things. A lot of their fine details have been eroded away by the proximity to the waterfall; leaving their features smooth and simple. You watch them closely but they do not move at all. At a glance they appear to be solid stone. Nothing really strikes you as remarkable at a glance.

(Are you looking for anything in particular?)

Askan:
You know everything you wish to know about bats, and may read this (https://roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Swarm%20of%20Bats#content) for more information. (I could link you to the individual bat monster, but this is a swarm, so this is more appropriate)

You are absolutely correct that these bats do not seem to be behaving naturally. Most, if not all, would indeed by asleep during the day. Every single bat, as far as you can see, is awake and watching you. Not only that, but they seem to be watching you purposefully; not simply as an animal might from a foreign creature venturing near.

They aren't taking any action beyond observing you and chittering to themselves quietly.

[Minescratcher]

"Very odd. I guess we should be ready to fend them off if we need to," Erevan added. He stared intently at the bridge. "I don't suppose this thing isn't going to kill us too, especially if this is the place the Vistani meant when they were talking about that wizard." He began to step forward, but halted when Kyran mentioned that the gargoyles might be "alive" (as much as the word could apply).

Once Kyran's suspicions about the gargoyles were resolved (one way or another), Erevan stepped forward to the edge of the gorge. He tapped on the bridge with the butt of his pike a few times, then crouched and searched for any obvious signs that the bridge was unstable.

Perception to look for signs that the bridge might be dangerous: [roll0]

[The Commander]

Erevan:
Nothing seems to happen when you tap your pike on the bridge. The bridge has patches of moss growing in places and is wet (due to being close to the waterfall). You might slip if you ran across the bridge or if you weren't careful, but the bridge is generally wide enough that unless you were dancing on the edge you'd just fall onto the bridge itself. There are no guard rails, stone or otherwise though, so it is possible to walk or be forced off the bridge.

[Spore]

Here goes nothing. Askan crosses the bridge as the first member, alone. His rests his hand on his sword hilt.

[Daishain]

"Hold up just a moment, I'm not liking this. Here, tie a rope around your waist."

Kyran will lend his rope to this purpose, making a safety line for Askan, that could be used to pull him back. if more length is needed, he will borrow from others. Once that is set, the artificer will stand with his weapon at the ready, prepared to fire at anything that causes trouble.

If Askan makes it to the other side unharmed, Kyran will ask him to secure the other end of the rope to let others cross one or two at a time.

[The Commander]

The bridge is about 100ft across, so you'd have to use 3 sets of rope (as you need to use at least a few feet to tie off the rope and offer enough slack to actually advance).

Askan walks across the bridge. Nothing happens. The view is spectacular though.

Everyone else walks across the bridge without incident and you retrieve the sets of rope.

The bats follow your progress until you are about halfway across the bridge and then you hear them take flight and make their way towards the castle, which is not that much higher than you at this elevation.

Ismark watches the bats go. "Strahd probably has spies in one form or another at every major point on the road. At least they didn't attack whilst we tried to cross the bridge."

This side of the bridge has no forest and you find yourself walking through a winding valley - steep inclines to each side of you. You are still heading slightly upwards.



You travel this path for several more hours.

The dirt road eventually splits in two, widening toward the right, remaining the same dirt path you've been walking to the left. You see patches of cobblestone, suggesting that the right-hand branch was once an important thoroughfare.

In the distance on the left-hand fork you see high stone buttresses. Huge iron gates hang on the stonework. Two headless statues of armed guardians flank the gate.

You also notice coming from the road to the left a group of people heading towards you. They are carrying pitchforks and makeshift weapons. As they begin to get closer you see them clothed in traditional Barovian garb. There are 9 individuals, of varying age, and a mixture of men and women.

They approach you cautiously, but they seem to be put a little at ease by the sight of Ismark and Kyran.

"Hail, countrymen!" Calls out Ismark.

"Hail." Replies a gruff looking man; who appears to be leading the group. "You'll forgive me for asking, but what business do you have wandering around these lands?"

"I could ask you the same question! We are on our way to Vallaki, our business is our own. We mean you no harm, so long as you're not here to impede us."

The man grunts. "Then I wish you luck on your travels. We have come from Vallaki just two days ago. We are marching on the castle. We may not be warriors, but we cannot live like this anymore - the Burgomaster holds festival after festival in some vain attempt to stave off hopelessness. But he is a fool. The festivals are a farce. Pretty banners and barrels of wine do not keep the monsters away. No, we will march on the castle and face the devil. Either we will be successful or we will die. Either outcome is preferred to living in fear or deluding ourselves into thinking we are safe." The rest of the group nods.

(Is there anything you'd like to interject or ask at this point?)

[Daishain]

Kyran turns to address them, "How many times has this scene played out in these lands? None wish this to continue, but countless mobs exactly like this one have marched on that castle, and yet Strahd still rules. Even the release of death is not guaranteed. People have returned to their families, worse than dead, or been forced to help Strahd rather than opposing him. We helped end the suffering of one such poor soul recently, and I have just learned that my own son may have suffered the same fate."

"I do not ask you to lay down your arms, nor to temper your determination. I ask you to think, and let prudence guide your actions. Find a way to fight Strahd that might actually topple him from his throne."

"My companions and I will be doing exactly that, we will fight him with tools that can destroy him. When it is time to fight, will you still be here to lend your aid, or will we be fighting the things that you have become?"

[roll0] Can't remember my persuasion mod right now, and mythweavers is giving me fits, I'll add it when I can. Here's hoping the roll is good, because I remember the mod isn't.

Not bad, I might actually pull this off, especially if I get help from someone on this. Edit: mod is 0, so the roll stands, between that and Erevan's assistance...

[Minescratcher]

Erevan stepped forward as Kyran spoke.

"Indeed. They say Strahd can't be killed in any normal way, so we're looking for some abnormal ways that might just do the trick. Our goals are the same. We can help you and you can help us. What do you say?"

Hopefully, his words and homely charisma would lend a little support to Kyran's speech.

Persuasion if needed, to help Kyran out: [roll0]

[Spore]

They need hope, not a lecture, Kyran. Askan then climbs a rock and adresses the mob.

My citizens of Barovia. We are warriors and scholars from different realms and here. And it needed all four of us to struggle down even the least of Strahd's minions. Ironically the vampire spawn in question was a former leader of another rebellion that was brutally stopped. Killing yourself in a suicide mission is not the way to help our cause. A rebellion is more than torches and pitch forks. It is holding together, aiding one another in solving the problem ahead.

We come from the Great Seer Madame Eva, who foretold our future. She told us where mighty artifacts lie, that can destroy this horror. And my master, the great Vampire Hunter Rudolph Van Richten hides in your lands. But you are right. Now is not the time to sit idle but to act. If you need something to do to keep your head in the game, help us.

We need all the help we can get.

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha shakes his head slowly, and looks at all the villagers each in the eye, "Your pitchforks and blunt tools will do nothing to kill the Count. Your little rebellion is doomed to fail, and there is a third option that may await you at the end of this trail. Not success, nor death.....but undeath. Being turned into the very thing that you hate so that you may come back and kill the very ones you love. This is no hope for this attack. It will only give 9 warm bodies to Strahd for his amusement." He gives a pause, "But. If you help us, aid us in our quest, we may be able to finally bring down the very monster that has been haunting these lands for far too long. Your families and loved ones will be safe again. And we can finally be free of this dark, horrible shadow that has gripped these lands. Channel your passion into a plan that has better results than your death, or worse, being Strahd's plaything."

Persuasion - [roll0]

Also, if applicable my Background Feature.
Heart of Darkness: Those who look into your eyes can see that you have faced unimaginable horror and that you are no stranger to darkness. Though they might fear you, commoners will extend you every courtesy and do their utmost to help you. Unless you have shown yourself to be a danger to them, they will even take up arms to fight alongside you, should you find yourself facing an enemy alone

Figured if there was a good time to have this be used, now would be it.

[The Commander]

The Barovians seem quite inspired by each part of your speeches and more than a little fearful at Ciardha's contribution. They look at each other and you get the feeling that the urge to go marching on a suicide mission has subsided.

Their leader speaks again: "Your words are not without merit. Heh... it's a shame you're not running Vallaki - we could use someone in charge that speaks some sense! Fine - we won't go marching on the castle this day. What can we do to help? You said you were searching for artefacts?"

[Daishain]

Kyran says, "At the moment we follow a few vague prophecies to find the tools we need. Do any of you know of any place with amber giants or amber doors?"

[The Commander]

The group think about it, but the answer you get from all of them is a 'no' - they've never heard of such a place or such things.

[Spore]

We have a few other tidbits of information as well. Do you know of a castle UNDER a mountain? And a garden in a cold climate with snow and a scarecrow? Though the latter can be almost anywhere. Askan pauses for a moment. But even if you cannot help us with your knowledge, you can at least help with a few trade goods. I need another vial of holy water or powdered silver and iron to do my magicks. And we subside on rationed food. If you can tell us where to hunt and what is edible here, we can continue.

[The Commander]

The first question also receives a round of no. They are aware of Ravenloft and the two mountains that the party knows about; but nothing about a castle underneath them.

The group agrees that the description is too vague to give you an exact location - there are many gardens with scarecrows in them. They do, however, suggest that the colder climate and snow would be found further up the mountain to the south - Mount Ghakis. They suggest following the Svalich Road west from Vallaki, then heading South at the Raven River Crossroads. The road would take you up into the mountains.

The group do not have anything like Holy Water or the components you seek; but they suggest heading to Vallaki to find such things - it is a fairly large settlement and has both a church and shops that might stock what you need.

In terms of what to eat, the group offers to share the excess rations they brought along with them, if you are suggesting they head back to Vallaki. (They can spare 2 days of trail rations for everyone). Wolf meat seems to be the most common source of food - the group mention that the town often sends out hunting parties into the woods surrounding the town. The wolves are plentiful and tend to keep most of the other game in low supply. The wolves are also extremely hostile, so culling them only helps protect the town. Typically hunters will place traps in an area and then inspect the area at a later time. Any area of the woods is deemed good enough hunting grounds; if you are brave and patient enough. They also give you a small list of edible berries and wild fruit that can be found.

[Spore]

Thank you for your kind offerings my good people. If you want we can travel back to Vallaki together as it is our next destination in any case. Your knowledge of the area prevents us from getting lost, and we can protect you if we run into trouble.

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha takes the supplies with a nod and, when they decide to depart, follows the group to Vallaki.

[Daishain]

Kyran, gladdened by the thought of having helped some of his countrymen, at least for a time, gathers his things and follows along.

[Minescratcher]

"Many thanks, indeed," Erevan added as he followed along with the group.

[The Commander]

(The group shares out the rations. It's about two days travel from here to Vallaki, so we can very easily save ourselves book-keeping by saying you just eat the rations shared by the Barovians)

The group agree, somewhat reluctantly, to return to Vallaki.

Along the way they tell you the following:



The Blue Water Inn offers food, wine, and shelter to visitors. A stranger with pointed ears is staying there. He came to Barovia from a distant land.
The burgomaster, Baron Vargas Vallakovich, has decreed that the Festival of the Blazing Sun will be held in the town square in five days from today. The previous festival, which he called the Wolf's Head Jamboree, was less than a week ago. The group left Vallaki as soon as the new festival was announced; having grown tired of the burgomaster's lack of any real leadership towards the town's problems.
Those who speak ill of the festivals are declared by the burgomaster to be in league with the devil Strahd
and arrested. Some are thrown in the stocks, while others are taken to the burgomaster's mansion so that the baron can purge them of their evil. The group did not want to meet such a fate, so simply left the town without saying a word. They do not dare confront the baron directly.
The burgomaster's henchman, Izek Strazni, has a history of violence as well as a fiendish deformity: a monstrous arm with which he can conjure fire. Fear of Izek keeps the baron's enemies at bay.
No one hates the burgomaster more than Lady Fiona Wachter. She owns an old house in town, but rarely leaves her estate. Her two adult sons, Nikolai and Karl, are local troublemakers. Lady Wachter also has a mad daughter whom she keeps locked away.
Purple flashes of light have been seen emanating from the attic of the burgomaster's mansion.
It's too dangerous to go fishing on Lake Zarovich, a vast lake that the town sits next to, but the threat of Strahd's minions hasn't stopped Bluto Krogarov, the town drunk, from trying. He sets out each morning and returns every evening, but hasn't caught any fish in a while.
There used to be a mage that shot lightning bolts at the fish in the lake to kill and collect them; but they haven't been seen in a while.
There's a Vistani camp in the woods southwest of town. The Vistani there aren't very friendly and they are not welcome within the town.
West of town is a haunted mansion. Legend has it that a dragon died there a long, long time ago.
South of town is a village that has been abandoned for decades. Rumour has it that its burgomaster committed some terrible offence and incurred the wrath of Strahd.



As you follow the road you pass by the structure you saw in the distance earlier. Spanning from one side of the valley to the other, a giant stone fortification looms above you. Two huge stone statues stand guard over the equally huge iron gates. The iron gates are open and drip with moisture and dew. A remnant of this land's war-torn past. You pass through the gate without incident.

Image:
https://i.imgur.com/ePy2SqC.jpg

You continue marching for a couple more hours before it begins to get dark. Ahead of you the road becomes flanked by forest again. The Barovians suggest setting up camp outside the forest. The group have their own supplies and are self-sufficient. They are friendly enough and share what information they have with you, but otherwise keep to themselves.

Between all of you it is easy enough to double up on watch and the night passes uneventfully.

The next morning you pack up and continue onwards.

You plunge back into the forest for a few more hours of travel before leaving it behind again and continuing to travel through mountain valley. If everything wasn't so ominous and cast in such a weak sunlight the landscape could almost be described at picturesque.

After a few more hours of travel the Old Svalich Road transitions from being a winding path through the mountains to a lazy trail that hugs the mountainside as it descends into a large, open valley. In the heart of the valley you see a walled town near the shores of a great mountain lake, its waters dark and still - Vallaki. A branch in the road leads west to a promontory, atop which is perched a dilapidated stone windmill, its warped wooden vanes stripped bare and menacing.

Image:
https://i.imgur.com/LFScRv2.jpg

As you stop to consider heading up towards the windmill, the group of Barovians become fearful.

"You're not thinking of heading up to the old windmill are you? Please, strangers, reconsider! There is an aura of evil about the place. Different, though, to that which the devil Strahd brings. A different evil altogether. Anyone who has tried to investigate the windmill has never been seen again. It is easy enough to avoid, let us just stick to the road...."

The windmill is a short 15/20 minute walk up the path, you estimate. You could easily bypass it if you stuck to the main road. Equally it would not be a long detour if you did want to investigate.

(What do you wish to do?)

[Spore]

If people vanish in there, I want to stop it. Askan replies regarding the windmill. I left my home to escape politics and to help the people of all realms. We can deal with your burgomaster later. I think if we deal with this threat to the town, the people will see us in a more favourable light.

[Daishain]

Kyran peers at the windmill, "I have heard dark stories of that place. I do not know the truth behind them, but neither do I suggest taking it lightly."

"If we are sure of being able to do something, by all means, but that may prove a challenge we are not prepared for, and our focus should be on Strahd."

[The Commander]

"If you want to go up there and deal with whatever it is that lurks in that windmill, you're either crazy or brave; perhaps both! We will not come to collect your corpse for the coffin-maker if you perish though. We will wait here for a few hours for your return. Otherwise we will make our own way back to Vallaki."

The Barovians seem intent on staying away from the windmill.

Ismark and Ireena look ready to follow you with whichever course of action you decide though.

[Spore]

Askan throws his knife in the air and catches it elegantly several times. Your call, Kyran. If we are not investigating though I would propose that we meet the wanderer from another realm. I have a hunch he might have his own goals for this land, too. He may be even affiliated with Kyril. The hunter turns towards Kyril, checking the bard's appearance from head to toe. You're awfully frail for an adult, my friend. And your ears are different, too. Where do you hail from?

[Daishain]

Kyran states, "If it is up to me, I would prefer to focus on our purpose in Vallaki for now. When done with that, perhaps we can seek more information on this other evil, and decide how to deal with it at that time. Whatever is in the windmill, it is a local and enduring threat. It can wait, and is less important than Strahd himself."

"As to this stranger, he may be willing to help our cause. Outsiders often are, if only because they haven't been beaten down over the years."

[Minescratcher]

"As much as I'd like to investigate, from what I've heard, I don't think we should test our luck. We need to get Ireena to safety first, at the least."

[The Commander]

The Barovians seem very relieved that you've decided to bypass the windmill for now.

Kyril seems distant - focusing on the windmill and ignoring the question. For a moment he is transfixed before he shakes his head and murmurs an acknowledgement.

"I am part human, part Elf.
Do not worry about my health.
I come from Waterdeep.
A city that does not sleep.
Press on we will.
Let us not keep still."

The Barovians seem incredibly perplexed by this pronouncement and whisper and shrug to each other.

Ireena chimes in:

"Perhaps you could tell us more of this city? Waterdeep. And what is an Elf?"

"To explain would take a long time.
To weave a tale so sublime.
Perhaps I shall tell you in due time.
So long as I can think of a rhyme!"

"Ok.... Another time, then."

With the situation growing more awkward by the second you decide to press on and leave the windmill behind; following the main path through the valley.



You travel uneventfully for another few hours, with forest returning on your left-hand side.

It begins to get dark and you setup camp again for the evening. As you are setting up camp a thick fog rolls into the valley. It becomes very difficult to see. You hear mutterings of bad omens from the Barovians.

What is your watch order for this evening? The Barovians are happy to double-up on watch and Ismark and Ireena are happy to support as necessary. The area is heavily obscured due to the fog. Is there anything you wish to do differently in light of this?

[Daishain]

With the fog pressing in, Kyran will encourage finding a campsite with limited approaches if such is at all possible.

Afterwards, he'll doggedly set about establishing wards around the campsite. He likely will not have time to encircle the entire area before full dark, and so will prioritize the most likely ways something could approach unseen.

He will volunteer to help with watch, and lend his goggles to teammates doing the same who need it at other times.

Alarm as a ritual, 11 minutes per casting, each of which will cover a 20' cube. Unfortunately in order to officially be heard, each ward needs to be within 60' from the outer camp sentries.

Perception [roll0]

[Spore]

Askan ponders: Part elf? Maybe a fey influence explains his erratic behaviour. Kobolds, gnomes and faerie dragons never acted very straight forward. So his insanity is inherited. Poor sap.

In the evening, as the fog rolls in, Askan tries to coordinate the Vallaki residents to create a big main pyre with a few smaller camp fire surrounding it. Heat usually holds any natural fog off. At least they can be sure it is the mystical fog of Barovia when it envelops the fires too.

[The Commander]

(Noted for Kyran)

The best place to find somewhere secluded/limited access would be the forest. Despite being part of a large group this does very little to remove the paranoia of being inside a dark forest, heavily obscured by fog and known to contain terrible dangers. You find as good a place as any to setup camp and begin to put into action your nightly routine.

Firewood is in plentiful supply, so a pyre is easily made. The heat does thin out the fog that rolls through the campsite - so it doesn't appear to be the same, unnatural fog that surrounds the lands of Barovia.

Kyran, if you offer the goggles to any of the Barovians they are amazed with it's features and inquire as to where you got it and if they might be able to get their own.

Kyril doesn't appear too bothered about preparing any nightly defences and curls up in his bedroll to sleep.

(Askan, if you are on watch I will need a Perception roll from you)

(Need to see what Erevan and Ciardha might do also)

[Minescratcher]

Erevan helped gather wood for the bonfire, having spent some of the journey collecting tinder along the roadside. He volunteered for second watch, then unpacked and repacked his bags twice.

When it was his turn for watch, he stood and stretched, before removing two wooden stakes and a small glass vial from his bag and securing them in his belt. Once that was done, he began to pace the borders of the camp with his pike in his right hand, though he made sure to stay within the borders Kyran had shown for his magical ward. He stared uneasily into the fog.

Perception for 2nd watch: [roll0]

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha wants to check out the windmill, but doesn't speak up as the others seem content on letting it stay. "When we are done, we should come back to this place. If it is evil, it needs to be purged." He continues with the others. When the camp back down again, he sits and meditates for a little while. After he is done he lights up his pipe, blowing those familiar skull-looking puffs of smoke, and writing in his journal. Namely the whereabouts of this evil looking Mill. When he is done listening to the conversation and smoking his pipe, he lays down for sleep. Restless as it may be.

So, IC I don't have Ciardha mentioning a watch. But, truly, y'all don't want him on watch anyway. His perception is awful lol

[The Commander]

Kyran's first watch passes uneventfully.

Erevan picks up the 2nd watch and begins his patrol.

A short while after beginning his watch he hears the sound of a hand bell ringing loudly nearby. Turning to look in that directly you don't see anything. The hand bell stops after 10 seconds.

[Spore]

Askan snores loudly as the bell rings. Five more minutes, grand ma. He rolls over.

Can we continue please?

[Minescratcher]

Erevan froze in place at the sound of the bell. Perhaps that was why he didn't look towards it until it had already stopped, and nothing was to be seen there.

He woke his companions, quietly informing them that something had triggered the wards. Then, he walked towards the area where the bell sound had come from, searching for signs of the creature that set it off.

Search the area (Perception): [roll0]

I am back now, and I'll have a lot more time to post. Sorry for the delay!

[The Commander]

[roll0]

As you wake your companions you hear the sounds of other bells begin to go off.

The Barovians grab their makeshift weapons and torches. Ismark and Ireena, although unarmoured, also grab their weapons.

Suddenly, through the fog and into the camp pounce about a dozen black furred wolves (regular wolves, not dire wolves). They surround the camp and advance quickly and purposefully towards you.

(Initiative please)

[Minescratcher]

"Wolves! Defend the camp!"

Erevan quickly turned and thrust his pike at the nearest wolf.

Initiative: [roll0]

Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

[Daishain]

Having barely touched his blankets, Kyran scrambles up, grabbing at his weapon and looking around for the cause of the alarm.

Init: [roll0]

[Spore]

Ugh, I slept so well. Askan thinks to himself while grabbing his sword. Wait. Are those vampiric minions or is that a normal pack of wolves?

Init: [roll0]
Nature: [roll1]

[The Commander]

(You guys just about win initiative)

There are about a dozen wolves, surrounding the camp, about 30ft away in all directions (the wolves are spread out).

The Barovians grab their makeshift weapons and charge at the wolves (I'm not going to micro-manage 9 Barovians, I'll simply say they provide flanking for anyone else attacking).

Askan:
These certainly aren't Dire Wolves. These look more like regular wolves. You know that they behave very similarly to the Dire Wolves you fought before, but naturally aren't as tough or as strong. As to whether they are minions of Strahd, you would hazard a guess that they are - since they seem to be attacking a larger group that is close to a fire - something most normal wolves would probably be wary of

Ismark unsheathes his longsword and wades into battle.

First Longsword Attack: [roll0] with Advantage: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Second Longsword Attack: [roll3] with Advantage: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]

Ismark's double strike takes down a wolf with ease.

Ireena loads her Heavy Crossbow and fires at a wolf.

Attack: [roll6]
Damage: [roll7]

In her sleepy state, the bolt is aimed way too high and disappears into the fog.

Kyril loads and fires his Light Crossbow.

Attack: [roll8]
Damage: [roll9]

Kyril scores a heavy hit on a wolf. It yelps and looks wounded, but is still active.

[Spore]

Strahd is literally going to hound us. Askan shouts out while he engages a wolf that has set its eyes on a hapless Barovian.

Attack: [roll0] if result is below 12, superiority dice: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] + Sneak Attack [roll3]

[Spore]

(Oh, right, advantage. So superiority dice if the better of two rolls is below 12. [roll0])

[Daishain]

Kyran finds a good vantage point, aims, and fires. He tries to target whichever of the animals appears to be the most immediate problem. One going after someone that doesn't appear ready to fend it off for instance.


[roll]2d6+1d6+5

[Daishain]

Apparently the RNG doesn't like splitting up dice like that.
[roll0] [roll1]
Edit: maybe I shouldn't have bothered. Oh well, my luck with the attack rolls had to turn at some point. Shame, it was a really nice damage roll too.

[Irish Musician]

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/_thrashmetaldan/Character%20Profile%20Pics/pic1677411-342x458.jpg
Ciardha Kane, Aasimar Warlock (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1446048)
Level 4 Hexblade Warlock | AC:18 | HP: 32/32 | Slots: 2/2

Ciardha jumps out, with his sword out, and runs up to the nearest wolf while pointing his sword at it. He slicing at the wolf, hoping to end it before it can tear into him.

Bonus - Hexblade curse it
Move - run up to wolf
Action - Attack with advantage [roll0] or [roll1] Crit on 19 or 20, dmg - [roll2] magical, I gain 8 HP when it dies

[Spore]

Apparently the RNG doesn't like splitting up dice like that.
[roll0] [roll1]
Edit: maybe I shouldn't have bothered. Oh well, my luck with the attack rolls had to turn at some point. Shame, it was a really nice damage roll too.

A little to the left. Askan shouts..
(You have advantage, so two attack rolls.)

[Daishain]

Without thinking, Kyran shifts his aim just a touch and fires.

forgotten Advantage attack roll, damage already rolled above
[roll0]Edit: nice