Nope! We'll yeah she is but, no! He stammers a sudden panic filling him, he leaps to his feet and draws his sword facing down Strahd!
Do we? Splitz yells, right?
A saddened expression crosses Strahd's face as Splitz draws his sword. Yeah Splitz makes enough noise that if you want to wake up you can. Unless you wear light armor or are sleeping very uncomfortably only Splitz has his armor on. You took a long walk to avoid Ravenloft, why? Why delay the inevitable? Strahd says not taking his eyes off Ireena.
At this point Izmark is awakened by the ruckus and similarly draws his longsword Away from her foul beast!
Izmark the Lesser, how long do you think you'll be able to protect her? Strahd responds his black eyes continue staring down at Ireena.
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Del rolls over with the noise, hand going to his mace. He fumbles up to a standing position while roughly waking Ash and eyes the fearful Lord in front of him, knowing in his heart they don't have a chance. His free hand will snake towards the holy symbol tucked in his belt.
He mumbles, A waking nightmare I can't escape from....
Diaz opens his eyes and they go wide at the site of Strahd. Without even getting up and without thought he points the hand holding his whip at Strahd and a red light with golden edges streams towards him
Oh no! Diaz! As the tiefling fires the Eldritch blast, Spiltz back pedals grabbing Del and pulling him back with him. The Baron knows they aren't ready to face Strahd but it might be too late after Diaz fired his attack!!!
The blast from Diaz's whip fires hitting Strahd in the face one side of his face turning a charred black. Ireena crawls behind Izmark who points his sword toward Strahd who just stands there having been flung back from Diaz's blast into the nearby wall. You wait with baited breath as Strahd then finally begins to look up right at Diaz and immediately looks at the whip you carry and laughs with a sinister grin I thought I recognized that.
Initiative Order Round 1
Diaz
Ash
Strahd
Splitz
Del
Izmark
Diaz and Ash you guys are up!
Diaz scrambles up/back with Del, looking puzzled at his whip, then Strahd and then Del. I hit Strahd? I hit Strahd. Oh crap, I hit Strahd!! Not good not good not good. Then looking down at Ireena, anger feels his eyes. CURSE YOU Strahd.
Cast hexblades curse as a bonus action.
Then he rolls his shoulders and mumbles under his breath and frost covers his body.
cast Armour of Agathys on himself.
AC = 17 (Dex+3, shield+2, shield of faith+2)
Ash sits bolt upright when Del shakes him awake. Blinking, he takes in the scene quickly and spins to his feet while grabbing up his nearby shield. Looking between Ireena and Strahd, Ash knows the danger they are in and what he must do. Over his shoulder, his voice choking with fear, he says: This is it, my brother. This is what must be done and now is the time! Take these innocents to safety and do not let my death be wasted.
With that, he turns and narrows his eyes at Strahd, calls down Eldath's protection on himself and charges at the vampire, shield out and tries to shove him against the palisade wall.
Ash tries to shove Strahd over but he is to powerful. Strahd strides toward Diaz and as he does you watch as the burnt flesh on his face begins to grotesquely knit back together as if Strahd had never been harmed.
When Strahd gets to Diaz he grabs him by his throat and lifts him into the air Let this be a lesson my friend for those who cross me. With his second strike he begins to crush Diaz's throat as necrotic energy flows from Strahd into Diaz
Now will the rest of you be so foolish? Strahd says as he continues to hold Diaz aloft.
Splitz and Del you guys are up!
Splitz moves to put himself between Strahd and Ireena, pointing his blade at the devil.
Let him go, Strahd! He bellows.
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Seeing his Diaz dangling in the air, turning purple as he watches, Del moves forward slowly knowing if the mighty Lord takes his approach the wrong way that he'll be quickly cut down.
Why do you toy with us? For your pleasure? Let me heal my friend before you crush the life out of him and talk to us.
Strahd is very difficult to read. Izmark also puts himself between Strahd and Izmark pointing his sword at Strahd.Let him go foul devil! Izmark shouts.
Initiative Order Round 2
Diaz (18 Damage)
Ash
Strahd (5 Damage)
Splitz
Del
Izmark
Diaz and Ash are both up!
Immediately after Strahd attacks Diaz, as he dangles in the air, he points to the area on Strahd's face that just healed and croaks out in a whisper, you missed a spot and fire erupts from his hand into Stradh's face.
After hearing Del's entreating request, Diaz will ready eldritch blast. IF Strahd does not snap his neck, exsanguinate him, rip his heart or any thing similar he will hold and gasp for his breath and move away from Strahd.
Otherwise
AC = 17 (Dex+3, shield+2, shield of faith+2)
Ash stumbles as Strahd easily dodges his clumsy attempt. Wheeling around, he glares at the creature with a seething intensity that you (other than Del) haven't seen before.
Strahd! STRAHD! You will fight me! Look here, you soulless creature. Ash screams.
If Strahd turns towards Ash, he will take the Dodge action, otherwise he will draw his scimitar and attack.
Under his breath, Ash murmurs, Forgive me Eldath, but it must be done.
If sword hits, will expend 1st level spell slot to deal extra damage.
Strahd makes his Dexterity saving throw taking half the damage from the high rebuke. Diaz then misses with his eldritch blast and Ash yells at Strahd and readies an attack.
As Strahd holds Diaz aloft he looks annoyed at you all You all must learn that the only reason you yet live, is because I allow it to be so. He grins Little play things. he addresses you all as.You will learn, you will learn With that Ash tries to run in with scimitar and attempts to hit Strahd who is just able to deflect the blow. Strahd growls an inhuman growl as Ash attempts to attack him before whispering once more to Ash You will learn. Strahd then tightens his grip on Diaz's throat and necrotic energy flows from Strahds hand into Diaz.
After that Strahd drops the unconscious Diaz to the ground and flies straight up so anyone within 5ft of Strahd can make an opportunity attack Learn, and learn well my little play things.
Everyone can go!
The Baron forgoes the attack on Strahd in hopes of not provoking further. He then moves to cover Del as he heals Diaz. Keeping a watchful eye on Strahd.
You think she will be safe here? Do you think you will? Strahd chuckles Barovia is my domain, you will find no sanctuary. Strahd sighs then smiles Oh these games are just too fun. he looks at you all but his eyes land on Diaz See you soon. With that Strahd quickly disappears into darkness.
After Strahd departs, Splitz gathers everyone around.
If I've learned one thing in the last 3 days, it's that we are no match for Strahd, who knows if we ever will be. But for now if he shows up, don't attack him unless he attacks first! He claps Diaz on the back, sort of hard.
I'm guessing none of us will sleep again tonight. So let's huddle by the fire and hope for morning. Maybe the Mouringstone brothers will share there tale of how they end up on this path together as purveyors of peace.
With that Splitz sit down back to the wall by the fire and stares at the others; not sure how they will hold up after the latest taunting from the ruler of the land.
you are right of course, I just woke up to load voices and saw him standing over Ireena and had to protect her? Where did that blast come from? I have never seen anything like that before. Diaz says in a whisper
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Still breathing hard and not looking at all pleased, Del slumps down near the remnants of their fire to warm his hands.
How do the people of this land have any heart left in them? That cursed fiend drops out of nowhere to taunt and almost kill anyone he has a whim to. He makes no sense. How does he benefit from this? Del asks this as he looks over Ireena and Izmark, but then lets his gaze shift over to the rest of his new friends and his brother Ash.
Diaz, are you well enough with rest or do I need to lay hands on you again? And Baron, I think I'll leave my brother to answer that question, if he wants to.
With that, Del will hunker down and wait for dawn so we can enter the minimal safety of the village.
Ash sits down heavily next to Del and leans his back against the strong frame of his larger brother.
How indeed, brother. This land is cursed and dark. There is no hope to be found here and I am certain that our fate is now locked into this doomed domain.
Angling his head slightly towards the Baron, Ash continues in a softer voice. Diaz and the Baron almost have to strain to hear what the frail paladin has to say. Since we are likely not to leave this forsaken place, I might as well share the fall of House Morningstone. If not only to satisfy your curiosity, but even if it simply tells you why the both of you have found yourselves cursed. For it is my belief that we have unwittingly brought this misfortune upon you, merely due to our proximity. Looking between the Baron and Diaz with a hint of pity and sorrow, Ash continues. I wasn't always the shell of the man that you see here. I, Ashtaroth Mourningstone, firstborn of House Mourningstone and heir to our family's considerable fortune, abundant lands and, most importantly, the enviable honor of our family name, was sent to train at the prestigious camp of Lord Adalbrecht the Holy, most high defender of Tyr. While there... He pauses with a choke of grief. After a moment, and with a supporting hand of Del on his shoulder, Ash continues. While there, I was possessed by a demon and made to utterly destroy my family. The fiend was not content to simply kill my parents, but over the course of a few months it devoured everything that House Mourningstone stood for. Honor. Strength. Influence. Prestige. By the time the demon had finished with me and my House, we were reviled by those who once paid respect to the very mention of our name. And then...then, at the end, with my own hand, with my sword sworn to Tyr, I struck my parents down and flayed their flesh from their still moving bodies. Ash pauses. His sunken eyes blank in his stark white, sallow face. For a few uncomfortable moments, he stares into the fire without moving. Then, continuing even lower so that everyone needs to lean in to hear him, Ash continues, but now speaking only to himself, forgetting everyone around him. Through the terrible months that I dismantled the honor of my family, the wicked spirit had full control of my actions and my words, but it left my mind alone to spectate. I could see and hear everything, but somehow, for months, I was not able to feel anything. At least not until just after the horrendous act of parenticide. Then..then I was able to truly experience all of the many weeks of torture in one searingly painful moment. Supernaturally, I felt months of pain and sorrow in that instant and my life and vitality left me. If not for my brother returning from his studies, I would be no more.
Ash trails off, the narrative obviously unfinished, but it is obvious that the telling has left him utterly spent. Silently, he lays down and almost immediately falls deep asleep.
The Baron simply blinks his eyes after hearing a tale that makes his own piteous one seem cheery by comparison.
Finally, after a long moment, I am sorry, I should not have been so curious. I always thought the monsters stayed on the outside, to be faced or ran from, like this devil Strahd. I never dreamed they could be on the inside causing so much pain and suffering. Sure I have heard and seen the atrocities of humanoids, but never thought something more nefarious could be the cause. Splitz hangs his head, ashamed to have prompted the grievous tale, but also more resolute, that somehow this whole thing might bring his new friend some measure of redemption. But even if Strahd was destroyed, how could it.
Diaz listens to Ash's tale, closes his eyes to ponder and awakes in the late morning sun.
The morning shone dimly upon the town of Vallaki and flies began to pick away at the rotten wolves heads upon pikes. Becoming irritating for both you and the guardsmen on the wall who eye you with suspicion even still. The gate now open the guards allow you enter if you wish but keep their eyes on you as you walk into the large town. What would you like to do?
Ireena, would you prefer to go to your destination now or should we seek someplace to ease our fast first? Diaz ask with a hoarse whisper and cough
We can head straight there, but I'm so hungry I could eat an Almiraj, horn and all; and then wash it down with some of that port they seem so crazy about here. What say you Ireena? The Baron stretches still stiff from a night with his back to the wall.
Yes, yes, not sure my back can take another night outside. Good thinking Del.
Splitz joins in perhaps showing his age a little and also his likely soft upbringing, while he likes to play young and tough; he is likely neither.
I know no one here. I don't even know where we would be staying. Izmark? Ireena looks to her brother.
I never thought we would make it this far if I'm being completely honest. I guess for now we find the local inn and stay there. Figure out something after that.
You begin to walk the streets of Vallaki the streets muddy but more occupied than the Village of Barovia. You notice several dirty and destroyed banners and streamers all over the town as if a festival had taken place but days ago.
The town is large and it takes you a little while to find the inn. Gray smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall.
I guess this is the place. Izmark and Iree a begin making their way into the inn. I'm assuming you follow?
Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques. However no one is present within the inn.
Splitz raps a coin on the bar, Hello! he calls out hopeful for some service.
A moment passes then you hear a stir up stairs. A few more moments pass before a man with black hair and a with a trimmed beard and a slight bear belly makes his way downstairs Shhhh. the man says putting a finger to his lips Don't want to wake Rictavio he'll talk your ear off for hours. He yawns But where are my manners welcome to the Blue Water Inn, my little slice of sanctuary from the untold horrors outside. I'm Urwin Martikov, I run the inn with my Danika, and my two boys Brom and Bray.
Splitz speaks in a whispered tone. We wouldn't want that. Referring to Rictavio.
My good man Urwin, I'm Splitz, these our my companions, The Lady Irenna, her brother Izmark, the brother Mourningstone, Del and Ash, and Diaz e Pam. Pointing to each in turn.
We arrived too late last night for the guards to let us pass, so we had a harrowing night. We are still standing barely. What we need is 3 rooms if you have them. And more importantly a hardy meal and some libation to wash it down. So how much for that? And well try to keep it down, as to not wake your sleeping friend. He flashes at innkeeper a big friendly smile.
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Del is very happy to have found an inn to maybe rest in. Baths and hot food, not to mention a frosty beverage or three will really hit the spot. She tries to watch Urwin and look for signs of deception or any hints in the conversation that would give us other info, including a gander around the room.
Diaz stays in the back, head down, hiding his heritage
My my, what an interesting lot you all are. Urwin says looking at you all Yes, unfortunately the whole town doesn't share the same hospitality of the Matrikov's. I'm sorry you were left outside the walls at night. Urwin says putting a hand on his chest.
As for rooms I happen to have three ready for the renting! The forth is taken by that bard Rictavio, annoying fellow but he pays good money. Anyway, rooms are two silver pieces a night and that comes with some beet soup and some fresh bread with no additional charge. Urwin says with a smile.
Del despite everything you've encountered in Barovia Urwin seems genuinely hospitable and kind, a rare thing to find in the misty land of Barovia.
Urwin. A pleasure to meet you. Izmark says shaking Urwin's hand.
Yes, you have a lovely inn. Ireena says looking around at the humble place.
Me and my sister will require a room for an extended amount of time. Izmark hands Urwin a large bag of gold and begins to hang his wet coat up by the door.
Sounds lovely Urwin thank you. Splitz hands over a gold piece, eyeing Izmark's big bag of gold.
We likely won't stay as long. How about two nights to start. This should cover our two rooms. Let me know, if our expenses run past this. Splitz hands over the coin.
Del, Ash your together; your with me kid he pats Diaz on the back.
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Thank you Baron, if we ever win any treasure we'll certainly make sure you are reimbursed for what you've spent on us.
Del is deeply grateful for a friendly face, not being used to the perpetual gloom. He quickly smiles at Urwin and motions him as he ushers everyone to a table. My good sir, thank you sincerely for your smile and offer for a warm bed and meal. Could we start with some breakfast? Then maybe could you direct us to a bath? Then I think we'll be more able to face the day. Beet soup you say? Love it, back home they called it Borscht, what do you call it around here? Carrots, beets, cabbage and a little meat? Sounds amazing!
Not necessary Del! He claps the cleric on the back then settles into the table, hopeful to soon have cup in hand.
Diaz will nap and recover. Later in the afternoon he will ask about any bookstores and visit any that are close. Then he will retire to the room and contemplate his new peers and powers and placement
Diaz asking around you find that Barovia is a place with a real lack of outside histories and the history within Barovia is shrouded, you find no library. Those who spend any time in the tavern very quickly are greeted by a colorfully dressed half elf man.
My my! I've never seen people quite in need of a good time then right now! How's about a story and some good purple grape mash paid for by the great Rictavio! He says with a big smile and both hands outstretched. Urwin! I round for these strangers! Rictavio pulls a chair up and turns it backwards sitting on it.
So how about a tale? Most bards are known for their musical talents but I the great Rictavio have a knack for story telling. Without you answering yes or no Rictvio begins to share his tale.
In a far off land or different world entirely a group of three valiant heroes and one buffoon found themselves within an ancient house within the swamp. You see the being within this house had led an attack on a nearby town and the four were hired to put a stop to the wretched hag. However the four knew not how powerful the hag was!
One of the four, a mighty knight and strongest of the group said "I shall slay the vile fey single handedly, and return her head to the sad town on the edge of the swamp!" He entered the house, drawing his sword as he went but... Rictavio slams his hands on the table causing several drinks to spill over The knight was swiftly struck down for he knew not the power of the hag which resided there. And then there were three.
The next member of the now three was an assassin who said "I shall sneak into the decerped house and slay the creature in her sleep!" So the assassin attempted to sneak into the old house however houses that old have one feature in common. Rictavio steps on a nearby floorboard which lets out a long drawn out squeek .Having stepped on a particularly squeeky floor board the assassin is also quickly slain by the hag within the house. And then there were two.
The next member of the now two was a arcanist who could conjure spells and charm those hostile to her. She said "Those other two were fools, this hag will have no chance against my charming spells. I shall charm the beast and have her leave this place." So the arcanist entered the house and muttered an incantation magic flowing from the arcanist's tongue. And it seemed that the magic had taken hold, but then...The hag having warded off the spell killed the arcanist too. And then there was one.
The final member the fool was slow in the head and held a kindness not seen by anyone, especially in the foul swamp. Not seeing any of his allies come back the final member of the group entered the house. Though unlike his allies he did not draw a sword, or sneak, or cast a spell the fool simply entered the creaky old house. The hag looked on in confusion from her wicker rocking chair as the fool simply waved at the hag as he entered.
The fool was meek and despite the hags grizzly appearance he spoke to the hag with the same respect he did with everyone else. "Um hello! Lovely day today." the fool said.
"Yes indeed" the hag said "But not as lovely as they normally are."
"No I suppose not." the fool said as he tried to balance on the balls of his feet "The nearby town didn't have a particularly good day either."
"Oh yes yes yes." the hag grinned "I suppose they didn't, haven't for a long time."
"That's true. Well erm I don't mean to be rude but do you think you could maybe, erm I don't know stop attacking the town please?" the fool said with a large smile.
The hag was taken aback, an ancient being of the swamp had never seen any shred of kindness let alone someone saying please. And she looked at the man for hours as he stood there looking back at her and trying the balance on his back heels. It truly baffled the hag so much so that she simply said "Umm, yes I suppose I can do that." she cocked her head sideways in confusion.
"Oh! Brilliant thank you so much! You have a lovely rest of your day miss." the fool said as he walked free from the house with not even a bang. Returning to town he was deemed a hero for putting a stop to the attacks and he remained a close friend to the hag until his dying days. The end!