GM Haladir's I6: Castle Ravenloft (Inactive)

Game Master Haladir

Okay, I've been patient enough...

Theodora's grip tightens on her weapon and she appears poised to attack, but pauses for a moment to see if Strahd answers Countessa's question.

It was clear which way this was going, soon there would be bloodshed and the all-familar ring of steel upon steel... but, for now, Petracleus helps himself to a couple of fair-sized helpings from the tyrant's table...

...interesting - a blunt and bold question... surely, this will be provocation enough to cease his lordship's veil of cordiality...

The Count seems somewhat amused by Countessa's question.

"A vamipre?" he says while shaking his head seemingly in amusement. "Is that what they're saying about me now? Sadly, while I may be the lord of this land, there isn't much I can do about what the commoners say about me."

He continues, "Of course, if I were a vampire, would it change your assessment of my offer?"

Countessa raises an eyebrow, but says nothing. Not the answer I expected, certainly. And would it change my response? The prospect of living forever is not unattractive. The power that I could amass...

Celowyn's mind whilst as she attempts to work her way through Strahd's plan.

He's serious. If he wanted us dead we wouldn't be here and he's certain we'll accept his offer sooner or later - why? Because he thinks we've got no other choice? Servitude or death?

"Why the change of heart? Apparently you've been sending your minions against Ireena and her brother night after night - and the others. Why the invitation tonight?"

Strahd's expression of cordiality seems to begin to erode at this line of questioning. "My minions? I have no idea what you're talking about. I had assumed the attacks on the burgomaster's mansion were simply those of wild beasts. And I told you why I invited you here: To meet my guests in person, and to present you with my proposal."

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19

Countessa remains suspicious, but cannot say exactly why. "What would be the benefit of accepting a place as one of your generals?" she asks, genuinely curious.

sense motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

Although he doesn't seem to be lying, Celowyn finds Strahd's declaration of innocence hard to believe. "I'm sorry," she responds flatly. "There must be something alluring about the burgomaster's home to attract so many creatures night after night."

Never thought I'd be in a position to sass a vampire but there you go...

Theodora begins to tap her foot impatiently as the others continue to converse with the Count, although she narrows her eyes at Countessa's query about the benefits of accepting Strahd's proposal.

Petracleus, Sense Motive vs Strahd: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25, nearly but not quite enough!

"Even were they wild beasts Count, surely - as ruler of this dominion - you are compelled to act... the savagery of the attacks upon the Burgomaster were quite beyond compare - how could you sit by and watch as your supposed queen has her family destroyed???"

...Petracleus pushes his plate to one side, "This won't do sir... Not at all... Regardless of what people think you are... or indeed whether you truly are afflicted with some form of vampirism... you have a responsibility to your people - one that the gods saw fit to bestow upon you... and you would let your people suffer as they do?"

Petracleus is beyond indignant, "I'm afraid that we must disappoint you with regards to any plans you may have had... instead, let us talk of a better life for your people..."

Strahd's expression warms at Countessa's question. "A fair question, my dear! As generals of my army, you would be in a position to command my forces... and take any captured spoils that those in such a position are rightfully due. For it is the natural order of things for the strong to rule over the weak. And our forces would be strong indeed! Once we have expanded my realm to encompass County Virlych—and Gallowspire—then no power left in all the land could oppose us. Once I have claimed the power of Tar-Baphon for myself, our armies would then crush the remains of the Knights of Ozem and march on to Caliphas! Once all of Ustalav is under my banner, I will grant my generals titles of rulership. You, my dear, would become a countess in truth, and not in name alone!"

Strahd ignores Celowyn's comment and turns his attention to Petracleus.

"I am quite certain that Ireena herself would have been unharmed in any attack on her house."

He rises from his chair, becoming more animated as he speaks. "You talk of responsibility to the people? You have it reversed. It is the responsibilty of the people to know their place and serve their betters! It is the right of the mighty to rule over the weak. And if nearby lands are not strong enough to oppose me, then they have no right to hold onto their lands! As for the people of Barovia... they will serve in my army as well, when the time is right to rise!"

Ireena has been rather quiet at the questions posed to the Count, but she bristles angrily at Strahd's non-denial to the question of being a vampire, and his denial of attacking her home. With his declaration of might makes right, Irenna seems unable to contain herself anymore.

"With all due respect, my lord, we all know the truth. You have ruled this land for centuries yet no one has seen you by light of day. The creatures of the night that stalk this land do your bidding, and yours alone. And when you speak of your army, we know you mean an army of walking dead! And I will never be your queen—whether you are a living man or not!"

At that, she holds her glass of wine beside her and upends it, pouring its contents onto the floor.

sense motive: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (17) + 13 = 30
Verran takes the whole banter in wordlessly, though he clearly shakes his head when he denies his involvement on the attacks against Ireena and her family. There was only one thing he had to say at this pointm something that was still bothering him.
"You still haven't answered my question."

"And, when you have done that... You must excuse us, I thank you for your hospitality but it seems we have no common ground and I believe we must escort Ireena back to safety", there is a slight tinge of regret in Petracleus' voice.

"Yes, I think this meeting is at an end," Celowyn agrees, now looking visibly angry. "The strong ruling the weak, people knowing their 'place' - words of a bully and a tyrant, no matter what guise the speaker may wear!"

Although she appears poised to smite the evil Count Strahd now the rest of the group seems somewhat on board, Theodora pauses for a moment to see if he breaks the rules of hospitality first.

At your rejection of his plans for you, a look of anger crosses Strahd's face. With an audible feral hiss, he bares his teeth. You can all see his prominent canines clearly. He balls his hands into fists and tenses as if to pounce... but then relaxes. His face first becomes impassive, then his lip turns to a wry half-smile.

He walks along the table toward the door as he speaks.

"I can see we have some differences in philosophy and politics. Please, continue to enjoy my hospitality. I will let you discuss my offer among yourselves. Please make yourselves at home in the castle. One of my servants will show you to your rooms. We can continue this discussion once you've had a chance to mull it over."

As he passes Merrick's chair, he stops, and places a hand on the warrior's shoulder. Merrick tenses at the touch, and turns in his chair to face the count.

"Mr. Renarin, you have been rather quiet this evening. Might I have a word with you in private? I get the sense you may have questions for me that you would rather not express in front of your friends."

Merrick relaxes at the questions, seemingly reassured at Strahd's words. He looks at the rest of you with a guilty expression, then at Strahd. He stands. "I'll tell you right now that I am not inclined to accept your offer, but I am willing to hear you out. And, yes, I do have some questions. Hard questions. Questions to which I will need assurances before I agree to anything." He glances quickly at Theodora and Verran.

As Merrick turns to leave the dining room with Strahd, Ireena shakes her head, slowly at first, then with more vigor. She opens her mouth to speak, but momentarily seems at a loss for words. She then finds them.

"Merrick, don't go off alone with him. It's not safe!"

Strahd stops and fixes Ireena with a stern look. She returns a glare.

Merrick says, "Hey, it's okay. I can take care of myself!"

He and Strahd turn and continue walking toward the door.

Your actions?

sense motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20

Damion says nothing but will seriptitiosly follow.

(once they leave) stealth: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17

That's odd, why Merrick?

Celowyn looks hard at the warrior as he rises and begins to follow Strahd. She'd only just met the man but it seemed strange for him to feel uneasy with the others who had known him a little longer.

"If you're sure," she says softly.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

Countessa senses nothing, though she is alarmed at the prospect of Merrick going off with Strahd.

Petracleus, Sense Motive vs Merrick: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

Petracleus quickly stands, "Merrick... Stay!!! Listen to your heart... There is something deeply wrong here... Stay with us... your friends..."

...Petracleus' voice is full of sincerity - and deep concern for his friend.

There's absolutely no way I can allow this to go on any further!

After exhausting all of her patience while her old and new companions interacted with the thoroughly evil lord of the domain, Theodora finally decides to cut all pretenses. She straightens her posture and moves closer to confront Strahd, her sword beginning to glow bright as a torch, "You're not going to separate us, nor are we staying. Either you let us all leave now, or I will destroy where you stand, creature of darkness!"

Smite Evil on Strahd and her sword is now Keen with the activation of Divine Bond. Will foolishly wait for him to react first before attacking, but unlikely to hold back any longer unless he immediately capitulates or stops her. Her AC against Strahd is 23/T: 13/FF: 23 due to Smite's deflection bonus.

Surprised by the sudden action of the paladin, Countessa slowly rises from her chair. Her eyes move from Strahd to Theodora and back again. She draws a breath, considering the situation.

Major edit to this post...

I think Theodora's action triggers possible combat. Let's say that her unexpected move is the sole action in a surprise round, and now I'm going to roll for initiative.

Strahd, then Verran, Daimon, Countessa, Petracleus, Celowyn, Ireena, Theodora, Merrick.

Round 1

As Strahd and Merrick move toward the dining hall door, Theodora stands, drawing her sword and issuing her challenge. Strahd spins on his heel, fixing the paladin with a long gaze. He speaks, "My dear Theodora... Does a simple difference in political outlook truly warrant violence? And do you truly have any authority to order one of your friends not to have a word in private with me if he so desires? Please, put away your sword and enjoy this feast I have laid out for you. We can discuss this further at a later time."

Theodora: Please make a DC 18 Will save.

Everyone may take your actions!

My apologies if I mucked up any further role-playing, but I could not foresee Theodora allowing an obvious evil threat start separating the group.

Will Save: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18

As she barely shrugs off the creature's suggestion, Theodora responds by charging in with an ineffective falchion attack.

+1 Keen Falchion - Power Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 12 - 2 = 12

Although it's unlikely to change the outcome, I failed to add in the +3 bonus from Smite Evil for a total of 15 to hit.

"Good, the talking is finally done!" Damion will circle around to flank.

+1 greatsword: 1d20 + 10 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 10 + 2 = 22
damage: 2d6 + 7 + 2d6 ⇒ (2, 4) + 7 + (1, 1) = 15 (sneak attack)

Round 1

As Theodora rises and challenges Strahd, Celowyn blinks and shakes her head as though waking up from some sort of dream.

What am I thinking!? She's right, we can't let ourselves be separated here - classic predator tactic!

In an instant, she's on her feet with her bow drawn and leveled at their host. "I won't hesitate any more. We won't be separated or kept here against our will!" she cries as she fires.

Attack vs. Strahd (Longbow; Favored Enemy, PB Shot): 1d20 + 10 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 10 + 4 + 1 = 16
Damage: 1d8 + 3 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 4 + 1 = 13

Move action to stand and draw her weapon, standard to fire.

Waiting for Verran, Countessa, and Petracleus...

"Friends, the time has come for us to show our valour... our purpose... our worth!!! Be of good cheer, for we are many against one", Petracleus' words are musically delivered - his voice lilting towards a strong bravado...

Petracleus: Inspire Courage (Su): An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.

Countessa moves to stand beside Strahd. "I am truly sorry, my friends, but his offer makes perfect sense." She holds her hand out to the count, dropping to one knee before him. "I pledge my eternal..."

"...resistance! Die, tyrant!" She intones the mystic phrases and blasts the monster point blank with a scorching ray.

Scorching ray vs. Strahd: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19 (ranged touch attack)
Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (4, 2, 6, 6) = 18 fire
CL Check (if needed): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11

Verran hestiates, as he didn't expect this to come to blows so quickly while they were un-prepared.

Verran delays.

Round 1

At Strahd's request to put away her sword and return to the table, Theodora momentarily feels a strong desire to comply. But she shakes off that feeling, drawing holy power into her blade. It begins to shine like the sun, and she strikes. However, her head is still slightly clouded and the Count easily sidesteps the blow.

Verran rises to his feet, not expecting the dinner party to suddenly become a brawl.

With a grace that seems unnatural for a man of his size, Daimon slinks behind Strahd as the Count faces off with Theodora. He stabs at the party's erstwhile host with his greatsword, but the blow seems to be deflected by an invisible magical barrier surrounding the vampire.

In a false show of obeisance, Countessa summons a ray of magical fire that strikes the Count, lightly singeing him. She is surprised that the fire didn't affect him more than that.

Petracleus begins signing a rousing song that brings a sense of hope and joy to the party.

Celowyn quickly pulls out her bow, nocks an arrow, and lets it fly, but the shot is wild and the arrow bounces off a far wall.

Ireena likewise jerks her loaded crossbow and fires at the Count. The bolt shoots straight at Strahd's chest and seems sure to land squarely, but its flight is suddenly deflected harmlessly just inches from his chest.

Merrick draws his sword, his back to Strahd. "Hey, guys! Back off! We're guests in this man's house!"

Verran: You delayed: If you would like to take a Round 1 action, please state what you want to do.

Round 2

A look of feral anger crosses Strahd's face. He bares his prominent canines and hisses, "You dare to strike the Master in his stronghold! More capable people than you have tried! You had your chance--there are other ways you can lead my armies!"

Easily avoiding the blades of Theodora and Daimon, the count mutters arcane words of power and traces dark sigils of blackness in the very air. The sigils swirl together into a tangible vapor of blackness, and Strahd then points at Theodora. The smoke blows toward the paladin, entering her nose and mouth, as if it were a living thing! She begins to gasp for breath.

Theodora: Please make a DC 21 Fortitude save.

Everyone may go!

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (7) + 13 = 20

"Damn!" Countessa shouts. "He's a caster!" It wasn't supposed to go down like this. She steps backward to get out of melee (5' step) and casts extended mage armor on herself.

"Something is protecting him!?"
greatsword: 1d20 + 10 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 10 + 2 + 1 = 21 (flank, inspire courage)
damage: 2d6 + 10 + 1 + 2d6 ⇒ (4, 1) + 10 + 1 + (2, 5) = 23

Fort Save: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13

I'll hold off her action until I know the results of the failed save.

Daimon: It's almost as if Strahd is wearing some kind of invisible armor made of magical force...

Throdora: The black vapors push all of the air out of your lungs. You are suffocating. As you gasp for air, you vision tunnels out and you lose consciousness.

Theodora's face tirns blue as she struggles to gasp for breath. She then collapses to the floor.

Theodora is unconscious and at 0 hp.

Daimon: It's almost as if Strahd was wearing a suit of invisible armor made of magical force...

Theodora: The black vapors in your lungs have forced out all of the air. You gasp for breath but nothing happens. Your vision tunnels out and everything goes black.

Everyone: Theodora's face turns blue as she struggles for air. She then loses grip on her sword and collapses to the ground, twitching.

Theodora: You are suffocating. You are now unconscious and at 0 hp. Please make another DC 21 Fortitude save.

Celowyn, Petracleus, and Verran are up!

Celowyn and Theodora: I forgot to give you Harrow Points at the start of play!

Please see the above-linked campaign Wiki page for what you can use your Harrow points for. Remeber that you may ask to use it for some other effect that's inspired by the name or imagery of the card. Using a Harrow point is an immediate action that you can use even if unconscious or otherwise disabled.

Theodora: Sorry, your second save will be during Round 3. My mistake.

Round 2

Alarmed as Theodora suddenly collapses, gasping for air, Celowyn lowers her bow and quickly moves to her friend's side. "Dora! What did he do to you!?" She frantically attempts to see if there's some way to keep the paladin breathing.

Heal: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

Petracleus' player is on holiday until Monday, and I will GMPC him until then. Still waiting for Verran...

Verran had a rough day yesterday and sacked out early after prepping a mod for tonight :)

"You idiots, I was only asking him a question." Verran shouts as he finally finds a reason to get involved in this fight. As Celowyn was helping the Paladin, Verran focused on Merrick and trying to keep him away from the fight unhurt.

"Back off Merrick...really."

Ready to cast Hold Person on Merrick if he makes any hostile move

Celowyn and Theodora: I forgot to give you Harrow Points at the start of play!

Please see the above-linked campaign Wiki page for what you can use your Harrow points for. Remeber that you may ask to use it for some other effect that's inspired by the name or imagery of the card. Using a Harrow point is an immediate action that you can use even if unconscious or otherwise disabled.

do the rest of us have harrow points? I don't remember them!

Daimon: Everyone has a Harrow point. In-game, the legacy PCs received theirs via a Harrow reading at at the Varisian encampment; Theodora and Celowyn just have them. I'll be issuing new Harrow points at various points throughout the game.

Round 2

GMPC for Petracleus.

Everyone is shocked when Theodora collapses after falling victim to Strahd's dark magic. Celowyn rushes to her side and attempts field healing, pressing on her friend's chest to try to force out the foul black vapors.

I'm going to say that with that Heal chack, you grant Theodora a +2 circumstance bonus on her Fortitude saves against this spell effect until the spell ends.

Countessa backs away from the melee when she realizes that the rumors that Strahd is some kind of sorcerer are true. She casts a defensive spell on herself.

Daimon attempts to stab the vampire again, but his blade is again deflected by the Count's invisible armor.

Verrran shouts a warning to Merrick, who ignores the warning and moves to defend Strahd against Daimon. Verran then casts a spell at his friend, causing Merrick to freeze in place.

Still singing, Petracleus draws his rapier and jumps over the table to enter the fray, attempting to flank the vampire with Daimon. However, his footing is poor as he tries not to step on Theodora's prone form, and Strahd easily avoids the attack.

Ireena reloads her crossbow and fires again. "This ends tonight!" However, her quarrel harmlessly bounces off Strahd's shoulder.

Round 3

Strahd shakes his head at you all. "It's too bad you chose to oppose me. But have no fear—I won't completely destroy any of you. Your skills are far too valuable to me to let them go completely to waste. Once I have shared the gift of unlife with you all, you will understand."

At that, he steps back five feet and casts another spell. The air shimmers in front of Strahd as a cone of magical energy washes over most of the room. Everyone suddenly feels much of their endurance drain away, as if you had had been exerting yourself physically for several hours.

Everyone is automatically fatigued, unless you have some kind of special ability that could counter it.

Your actions.

Theodora: Please make another DC 21 Fortitude save. You may take a +2 Circumstance bonus on the roll due to Celowyn's attempts to revive you.

Using the harrow point to activate the Hammers suit bonus for a +8 bonus to the Fort save. If this is not allowed, please disregard the +8 in the subsequent roll.

Fort Save: 1d20 + 9 + 2 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 9 + 2 + 8 = 37

Thanks to Celowyn's quick action, Theodora manages to choke out a brief gulp of air before the tendrils resume suffocating her.

Using the Harrow point now is fine. Theodora remains at 0 hp and is still suffocating. From a metagame perspective, the suffocation spell will end before final death even if she does not make the saving throw for the final round.