Session #36: Forgiving a traitor
Jan. 14th, 2024 06:17 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
istainion Day: 6, Time of day: Evening
Location: Headquarters, Vallaki
NPCs met: hendrik van der voort (Coffin maker)
Side Note: The hags and the count are not cooperating, the shoemaker that is saved is supposingly alive and is living in Krezk, Strahd seems to approve of the behavior of the people of Krezk but considers the Abbot a peculiar man, he remains interested in his "divine mission". According to the count, the Abbot wishes for nothing else than the realm of Barovia to become a "better" place. Both Yshvara and the Abbot are revealed to be Aasimar.
(Remarks marked by *are written in abyssal, remarks marked by - are written in celestial, the rest of the entry is written in common)
The skies were darker than usual, implying that nightfall is to come when we stood face to face with the vampire Lord, himself. Strahd von Zarovich stood on our doorstep, awaiting us like a loyal dog of some sort. The vampire made it sound like he'd been standing around for a while, almost as if he hadn't expected us to stop by the tavern for Arvirin's and everyone else's sake. The man was willing to invite us for dinner inside our own assigned residence. It's odd but what to expect from someone so full of himself?
Again, he asked us whether or not he may enter. Knowing that he will likely use unnecessary ways to get inside or take our heads, Yshvara allowed the man inside. She added that it is His Realm after all. It's sad but true but I didn't like it even a little. I kept my voice low, muttering all kinds of insults to the man under my breath. Who does he think he is? What does he think he is doing? If he truly needs permission to enter a building inside his own realm, then that is at least something where we are considered safe from him. I wonder if it applies to traveling tents as well, if it happens to be the case, I better get my hands on one of them when we end up traveling after all.
Just when we were planning to follow the man inside, Tibirin suddenly raised his hand and walked off. What's the meaning of this? ...
The vampire immediately noticed it and addressed him. He looked over to him and it looked like he was casting a spell on the guy but it had no effect. Yshvara noticed it as well and quickly tried to convince Tibirin to come inside before things would take an ugly turn. Strahd decided to enter the house. For some reason, the big cat changed his mind and entered as well. What's the point of abandoning us all of a sudden, Tibirin ...
All of us entered, we were led to the dining room inside the mansion and took our seats at the chairs when we were told. I felt like a hostage inside this building. The only reason why I will not reach for my weapon is the fact that a mere minion of his has given me these bad memories, who knows what damage this vampire will inflict on us if I will? Or rather said, what will become of the others if I would? It was already getting tense when Arvirin didn't take a seat on the chair but on the floor and when he was given instructions to sit at the table, the wood elf sat on TOP of the table with all the magical food standing around. How he managed to find a space among all that food is simply impressive but with another order coming from the man who adores table manners more than common sense, he had the boy sitting on the chair, at last. Tibirin was not so cooperative and refused to take a seat, instead he would stand against the door behind me.
I sat on the complete other side of the table, facing the vampire lord to keep a close eye on his each and every movement. He is just here for a talk, he said, but there was no clear subject that he felt urged to discuss with us other than our general discoveries and replies to our many suspicions and assumptions about him. He's not feeling guilty about anything at all, it's like he is without blood on his hands while his people are dying by his decisions. Those minions follow his orders, do they not? Is he not concerned with the well being of the people in his realm?
They oppose him, he says, convinced that taking them out will silence them. Everyone is tense around him, nobody will refer to him in a positive manner unless they are one of this obsessed henchmen. And I doubt even they are having a good time in Castle Ravenloft. While discussing, the count mentioned something odd. Something like a limited capacity of souls in Barovia, tied to only the ones who are born here. There are people, he said, that are born without a soul, born without the feeling of happiness or joy. He mentioned a name that I read about, it's a fisherman that this group has interacted with, Bluto. He is one of the examples, Strahd admitted. Taking out those people will allow new ones to be born with a soul, born with happiness.
I believe I have never heard of a concept so absurd. I understand that a realm like this is limited in its ways but I doubt that any living being can speak of happiness when living on the lands that are ruled by some villain. Threat is behind each and every corner, fear for survival is everywhere. The difference between the poor and rich will increase over the upcoming years and I wonder how these men and women are going to survive if the land runs dry. Eventually, animals will no longer have what it takes to survive. Can he really speak so highly of himself? Ruling a dying realm? He should be ashamed of himself! Why be concerned about things that do not touch him? If all he needs is the blood of the living.
I wonder when he was turned into a vampire. I doubt he was just born as one. Was it a willing progress? Was it not? Are the litch experimentations really of his concern or is it a progress that he is unaware of? Can this man not just turn anyone into one of his immortal toys? Or is it a mere interest? A hobby? Many questions passed my mind when I saw him. I was surprised to hear him answer, to hear him respond to our questions. That's the least I expected from a noble so very powerful ... What is it that he wants from us? He just wants us to bring the change? What change is he anticipating?
I looked down at the food again. It didn't seem to cool down and the count claimed that it was all freshly prepared. Almost like a celebration. I observed the response of the others. Arvirin has no trouble at all to just dig in and grab what he wanted, revealing little table manners again but the attention of the vampire was elsewhere. I decided not to eat anything. I will not let any of his magic reach me. There is no way that he has prepared all of this, at most, this has to be an illusion of some sort. Even if it did smell like real food. Later on, I reached for one of the bottles that striked me as familiar. Red dragon crush. I poured it into my glass and drank from it. It also tastes real, the bottle also had the regular weight of a full bottle. No liquor was enough for me to keep quiet, not to at least let some of my disagreements slip. I can't stand it, not being able to do a single thing while facing a threat sitting right in front of me on the other side of the table.
When Pyre asked the man about his purpose for arriving at our doorstep, he points at the feast he has prepared, saying that he'd only like to reward us for rebuilding Vallaki. It are the people who are rebuilding, we are merely taking out the trash. It is a shame that the biggest garbage came to visit that we can't simply take care of. Yshvara added that there is still a lot left for Vallaki to take care of in order to rebuild from the massive damage that has taken place inside its broken walls. The subject continued when I asked him how it felt to take out all those people but the count considers it a "necessary evil" he could only mention that if a city protests against the Lord of the land, that it is in his right to "inflict punishment". We referred to the burgomeister, the count, too, was convinced he isn't a good man. Even when I asked him why he would not take out that single man instead of the people around it, he spoke of the necessary reform that the city of Vallaki would need. Even when almost none of the people are left, he was blind and refused to give in, returning that it is rebuilding just fine.
He is clearly blinded by his powers. Is it not ridiculous that nobody notice the enemy standing around in their city? Do they not recognize their ruler? It is a relationship that he must reconstruct and not through threat or death of the innocent. Shevat seemed to have contact with the man as well when he took care of the land outside of Vallaki's borders to fertialize the ground for future purposes. It seems like the count let it happen, he allowed him to support them. Shevat asked if he will no longer interfere with the reconstruction of the city in the future as well. Count von Zarovich said that he has no such intention as long as the people know their place.
One of his minions, Stasia appears to disobey her objectives and she's already on his list, the vampire lord says. He'll take care of her but he won't offer us any help to deal with the hags. He claims that they came before him, they use a type of ancient magic that is different from what he knows, and because of that, he cannot share with us their location. They are too "sneaky". It seems to be our only common enemy. He shared that a single hag is not powerful enough, they are only powerful in a group.
He spoke of Krezk, the other city, in a very positive manner as well. The people there know their place. Strahd seems to support their religion and has no trouble with the burgomeister, Dimitri Krezkov in charge there. When Yshvara's origin was confirmed to be Aasimar, a human blessed by the divine, he also confirmed that the Abbot has a lot in common with her. He is not from this land, he comes from outside, like us. Strahd considers him a peculiar man but his divine mission seems of his interests. Abbot wishes for this place to be "better" and works tirelessly to achieve it. He might be interested in meeting us, we were told by the man. I doubt that I'll get along with anyone who can get along with a man that has nothing but self interests. I guess we will see, if we are ever done in this troubled city. I hope that when the days past, that there will be walls standing from which they can protect themselves against the harm coming from outside the dangerous woods.
Our conversation continued, we had our answer why we were brought here. I finally let out my frustrations about it, that he just dragged us inside. I know from the journal that they are here by free will, but I was on a mission, I had to abandon a man in need for my protection and was lured inside to never leave again. Finally, I did it. How he is just wasting my time, I could have been helping people, saving lives but I am stuck here. He replied that I could save multiple lives here, but those are lives of people that he will just kill in future generations. What meaning do they have to him? They are just pawns in his little, boring game.
I heard Yshvara's voice in my head and grew annoyed with what she said, I told her not to say things like that when it came to the attention to the rest of the group. It's rude to have conversations on your own, Strahd claimed and Yshvara was quick to adapt to the situation, telling me not to be so rude in the presence of the count. *Almost as if she was siding with the enemy to be on his good side. It disgusted me, all the pretending of everyone. How can they remain so calm? Of course, the vampire Lord confirmed that I should "listen to my friends", I'd want to laugh at him and ask who he's referring to. I don't know these people ...
"Would you like to go back to where you were?", the count suddenly asked. "Back to your old job ... Sitting in a dark room ... Questioning ... Is that what you want, Viiris?"
I hate hearing my name coming from a stranger's mouth, I hate it, to hear how he turns my memories against me. Why is it that he speaks of them in the company of these people? I asked him how it is possible but clearly, he told me that he didn't have to look far to see what is hidden. "Your scars are visible for anyone to see. You're not fooling anyone but yourself."
This is absurd. Simply absurd ...
I reached for my glass to continue drinking and kept quiet until my next opportunity, and it didn't take long before I got warned for commenting the another thing that he could not answer me. I was getting rude, he told me. How impolite of me ...
I did my best to suppress the comments and observed how the others interacted with him. It sickens me how well Shevat gets along with the count, he would almost refer to him as an ally. But luckily, Tibirin is on the opposite side. That vampire sure knows how to get on his nerves, as well. Strahd said that he appreciates Tibirin's honesty and values it in a friend. That's when Tibirin finally unleashed what he wanted to say and I felt my faith in this group restored by each word he let out. There was a moment where things grew even more tense again, where his words were backfiring at him. Strahd asked if he was looking for a challenge, for him to become the villain he ‘desires’. Yshvara quickly forced herself in between their conversation to keep the peace, as always. She spoke some sense into Tibirin to avoid it from happening. Wise, I would not have interfered. Shevat eventually supported the two and together they somehow managed to calm the Lord down again.
He'd know better, he said, that to anger a caged animal. Tibirin made a turn and decided to leave the dining room to head inside the kitchen, leaving us behind with the count. This is probably the best decision he has made. I know exactly how he feels, truly I do. However, I can't let this man have his way. If he spills any valuable information, I am here to stay even if it is difficult to keep up with. The way this man is convinced of his own lies. I bet he got everything inside that little castle of his, all that he desires. Women, liquor, henchmen and most of all, the power and funds to make anything possible. Many of us could only dream of such power, and with it, freedom.
Finally Yshvara was forced to reveal that she is an Aasimar, half celestial, half human in her case. Uncommon, that they are, but I didn't imagine she would hide such information from us. I was starting to imagine that her appearance is nothing but an illusion and she may be some terrible creature underneath that we would potentially consider an enemy of ours. Instead, she just happens to be chosen by the divine. *How ungrateful, she should be proud ... I am at least happy that there is nothing more to fear than even more lies coming from her. Especially white lies. She also dropped that she is from Waterdeep which I later on needed to confirm, there she told me that she just happens to be a traveler if anything. It seems like we have never met during her many travels. I'll consider it a positive coincidence.
I looked over to the count and thanked him for being so helpful to get some of the secrets out of the way. So he is helpful, for once, I said. He didn't quite like it, the way I put that. I believe I crossed the line for thanking him. I do consider it to be a big mistake, indeed.
"I think you've spoken quite enough.", he said to me and he lifted his finger. My body felt lightweight for a moment, almost as if I fell backwards, tossed into a different dimension. And when I opened up my eyes, it was as if nothing changed from when I kept them shut. Absolute darkness. I was standing there, nothing was visible. I could not feel any walls when I explored the environment. I held my hands in front of me to keep me safe from hitting anything unnecessarily but it was pointless. It felt like I didn't move, like I was fixed on the spot. It's hard to detect from the darkness around me. That man probably banished me to a space to keep me quiet, I thought to myself. I let myself drop down onto the ground.
Actually, I didn't mind this. I could finally shut my eyes for a little and enjoy the silence. Whatever that comes, I thought to myself, will come. If this is the end of my line, then so be it. I cannot tell how fast time moves inside this environment but it was calming until I felt something move again.
There was light in front of my eyes again when I opened them up. I was in the dining room again. The table is still dressed with all the food but the count is no longer in sight. I was questioning the gaze of both Pyre and Yshvara in my direction when I realized what happened again. Immediately, I asked where the man was but they told me that he had left. He spared my life? ... For some reason, I had an odd feeling that he would. Mercy? I doubt it ...
None of us died this evening. We survived, all of us without a fight. He made us food. That vampire is playing with our sanity ... This is merely a game to him, he knows that he is unwelcomed among us, he knows how we think of him. He can reach our minds whenever he believes it is necessary. Offers us methods to expand certain interests in my case and that, by offering his help. Never, shall I reach for his help. * At most, I'll kindly request him to end me.
The food was still on the table and there was no one to directly stare at me, so I moved closer to the dining table and tried a small slice of meat. It was beef and it actually tasted like it as well. It was absolutely luxurious, the way that it tasted. The odd thing about it is that after all this time, the food is still as hot as before. Either Strahd controls how this food responds inside this environment, or this food is magical. I cannot afford to get sick and I already had dinner at the Blue Water inn, I let it be as it is and went to the kitchen to see how Tibirin is doing. He was staring down at the fire. Shevat was talking to him.
It was interesting to observe their behavior from a distance. It seems like most of them finally let go of their facade. I really enjoy the way that Tibirin spoke during the conversation he had with Shevat. He and I appear to share at least a similar mindset on the outlines of the situation. I, too, appreciate his honesty and it was wise of him to keep his voice down during most of the conversation until the count asked for it specifically. What did that vampire expect, anyway? To suddenly spill the words he's been needing to hear? Foolish man ... I doubt that is what he was after.
I bet he just wanted to see how we think of him and behave when he is up close, rather than sitting comfortably with his buttocks on a luxurious chair from a safe distance. We'd be foolish to attack him immediately, I doubt that we are strong enough to take him down on the spot to begin with.
Arvirin approached me while I was standing in the kitchen and asked me if Strahd is evil or not. It's strange to me that the difference between good and evil is so difficult for him to recognize. Wouldn't he, a boy that has been enslaved and held as a prisoner, know what evil is? I doubt he is without scars to speak of the difference. I explained to him that whoever feels in the right to manipulate the innocent for more control, inflict pain and seek war by selfish means would be considered evil. That man is playing with our minds and refers to us as his toys. Can he really not tell? That man dragged us inside via one of those many minions of his, the werewolves that attacked us. I saw the boy think to himself, he was deeply in thought after the words I have shared. Then suddenly he asked me whether or not dying is a bad thing. By natural means, this is a part of the cycle of life, by murder for selfish purposes, or rather said, evil purposes, that is definitely a different subject. To me it is, anyway ... I can only hand him my answer.
I begin to wonder if my mindset is wrong ... These people seem so disorientated as if they would think of Strahd as a neutral force. At least by Shevat's words. He hasn't done anything to us? He let him cast a spell on the fields? Are we supposed to be thankful? Luckily the others felt differently and felt urged to apologize for cooperating with the count to keep the situation safe. *I merely care about not dragging them into a mess again that I have caused. I have enough blood on my hands ...
I heard the conversation of the others, how badly Tibirin wanted to take his anger out on the food that was still on the dining table. It was still there until Yshvara noticed that it was no longer. He truly is watching or at least overhearing our conversation. We should not speak of our strategy plan to take him out. Ever. Then Yshvara came with a new plan and made a doll that resembles Strahd for Tibirin to take his anger out on but he didn't need it. She seemed mildly disappointed so I requested to take it instead. I have PLENTY of frustration to take out on a single doll and I HOPE that vampire was watching. I didn't want to do it in the kitchen in the company of Yshvara-El, Shevat, Tibirin and also Arvirin. With her permission, I took the doll and went up the stairs to punch it until nightfall came.
Day: 7, Time of day: Morning (9 AM)
Location: Headquarters, Vallaki
The next morning I noticed that the doll had disappeared. I was a little shocked at it and looked through the room to find any traces of its movement. It might have been the count's doing! I got myself dressed and rushed over to the bedroom of Yshvara. She might know a thing or two about it. Impatiently, I knocked on her door to see if she would open up. "Good morning" Her usual friendly looking face was revealed after the door opened up. It seems like she was already awake, good. That's when she explained to me that the doll would only last for a limited amount of time before it would disappear again. I examined her expression. She spoke truthfully, no doubt. It is not often that I witness this type of magic and I truly am impressed but with that information given, my concerns vanished and I disappeared to walk down the stairs.
We discussed briefly after I had breakfast on my own in the living room about our mission to take out Gorepaw. I needed to make a few things clear during this discussion with the pacifists of the group. They all seemed to share the thought of neutralizing the beast without inflicting immediate harm. I disagree with this attitude, this beast has fought many of Vallaki's hunters, deaths are likely among them. How can they allow it to roam around freely? Do they honestly believe that requesting it to leave is going to last for a long term? Absurd, I'm telling you. Even if it were to leave for a moment of time, who can guarantee that it will not return? We cannot risk Vallaki to suffer more harm! But after they neutralized some spectral knights by talking, I feel like it has consumed their thinking. I'll do as desired, but I'll prioritize the mission I am given by the burgomeister, no matter what. Any sign will do it for me to attack that beast.
"We don't know what the bear wants." Shevat let me know when I voiced my doubts, even after mentioning the deaths of innocent men. I doubt she is willing to talk it out, Shevat. It sounds pretty cursed to me. They did say it was corrupted! It could be protecting its babies? The hunters may have entered its territory? We aren't speaking of a regular bear, dammit! That thing is likely merged with the one of the gems of the spirits! Does it match the description? How are we going to obtain it otherwise? Most things in Barovia are simply CURSED. Yshvara tried to speak some sense into him but truly, who can convince Shevat who is used to living in some peaceful woods. Can't really blame the man.
Shevat then suddenly turned to me when we spoke of changing the state in which the bear is in, to get rid of the corruption. He revealed interests in my faith. *I felt growing nervous, almost as if he was testing me. Have I been faithful? Have I not been? I tried not to spill the unnecessary. Both Yshvara and Shevat seemed to recognize His name. Ilmater. Yshvara admitted that she appreciated Him but does question the act of their followers, that seemingly seem to engage suffering when it can be avoided. I would say anything to honor Him. *In my case, anything to ease the suffering I have avoided physical punishment for. It doesn't match her philosophy. -I felt how it made me smile a little, the feeling that others have traveled a different path from me. Who do not seek guidance in desperate times to willingly be led a path of suffering. Nobody should but those who feel drawn by His inspiration.
Shevat said that he wishes to ask the spirit for guidance for Gorepaw. For that, he must obtain an item as an offer of sacrifice in exchange for valuable information. His expecting gaze was resting on me but I carried nothing of the sort. So we'd need to ask Father Lucian Petrovich for his help. Hopefully he will get the answers he seeks. We'll see. Luckily it will be on our way. I let them know that we need to visit the coffin maker for a coffin to transfer the corpse in the attic to the church. I refuse to transfer her in any other way than one that is respectful enough to carry a victim of Strahd's will. With the corpse location confirmed to be still inside that room, we left the residence to find the Coffinmaker.
Day: 7, Time of day: Morning (11 AM)
Location: Coffin Maker, Vallaki
The shop looked very uninviting. At the front door there is a sign in the shape of a coffin and it's only two stocks high of a building. The windows are shut, not allowing any sight inside. It looks abandoned from the looks of it. I took a step forth to knock on the door but there was no response. No movement was heard on the other side. I knocked a little louder, feeling the frustration get to me again. This traitor kept those vampires inside. If he is inside, he better hurry up and open the door, I thought to myself. No response, again. Suddenly Arvirin walked past me and punched the door, as if he tried to violently copy me. I simply took my distance in case things would turn for the worst. Discussing with myself in mind if I should take responsibility for his behavior or not.
After a single punch, there was still no response. It is odd but if he truly is no longer here, I considered trying to investigate this wicked store. Curiously, I watched Arvirin damage the door. I took more distance when more of the door started to break. This door is in such a terrible condition or this boy is simply too strong, I thought to myself. A third punch was aimed at the door and afterwards, there were footsteps heard from the other side. Nervosity got to me. How are we going to explain the damage? No, he's our enemy! ... I can't let it get to me ...
The door opened up. An old man with a beard was standing behind it. He looked depressed, reeked of alcohol and was not in the mood for a talk. I saw his gaze going left and right to see all of us. An unmotivated voice reached our ears. "Can I help?" Yshvara got straight to business and addressed our need for our coffin. "You need an empty coffin?" he asked in return. I was staring at him intensely. That's probably the strangest thing to ask. He has ones that are "full"? ... He should probably stay away from the liquor and simply go straight to jail. He has one for us, yes, he doesn't even ask for a fee. Strange ...
He disappeared for a while, then came from a different direction of the house, carrying a coffin to hand it to us. Arvirin still handed him some gold. There was little interaction, he held up his hand to accept the money. Well, Arvirin, I think he can put the money to good use to replace that door you ruined. When I raised my voice, I heard his frustrations leave him. He's not up to chat, is he? Such a shame ...
I asked if it was true that vampires were hidden inside the building and rested my gaze on his facial expression. "Are you here to take me in?", he asked in return. I felt more frustration fill me from inside. Definitely, I would love to. "If I could, I would." I said to him, He looks like he is well aware of his crime, but that wouldn't stop me from wanting to drag him to the guards to throw him behind the bars which he deserves. "For what reason did you hide them?" I asked him when only silence followed. "I do not wish to talk." That is when he walked back inside the house, as his only defense. "Enjoy your coffin." I let out a chuckle and thanked him when the door fell shut. Arvirin turned over to us and asked if the broken man would be alright. Yshvara seemed concerned with his condition as well, I on the other hand, only felt the complete opposite. I was frustrated with this situation, he got away with murder for his cooperation. Unacceptable ...
But a woman who is no longer is clearly more important than a traitor. I needed to get us moving in the direction of our assigned residence to put the woman to proper rest. I cannot believe that we are cleaning up the mess of his doing, he was a part of it. No matter if he wasn't in the position to discuss, he could have dropped the information to get rid of those damned vampires when the time was right. I doubt he has ever made an attempt. On our way back, Arvirin voiced his concerns. It is the fact that the old man looked sad, he said that if I were to look sad then he would want to hug me as well. Honestly, this boy doesn't understand the weight of that man's guilt. I hope that he is happy to have survived the attack in which many have given up their lives. There aren't many survivors and he was with the enemy all this time. Yshvara promised the man to return and added that it is easy to be deceived, to not beat himself up over it. Neither does she seem to understand it.
I do not feel responsible for him in any possible way, neither will I cooperate to make him feel any better. I do wish to know what made him want to cooperate with them. Is this a long term service? Or was it just a single time use? Because, truly, can we trust this man inside Vallaki's borders?
Day: 7, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Headquarters/Church, Vallaki
Back at the residence, we carefully placed the corpse of the woman inside the coffin and carried it down the stairs respectfully, then to deliver it to the church' hallowed lands. I hope she can find peace even without fulfilling her final wish. We walked the path to the church and met with Father Lucian again. He told us that she did have a family grave, her husband might not be among them but at least she will not be entirely on her own. She will be with her family on hallowed ground. This part of the graveyard looked better than most. It felt good to give this poor woman some rest here. I have helped the Father to dig for a space large enough for the coffin to fit.
Once we have taken care of the task, Shevat could finally address his interests in the offering. He paid a fair 25 gold pieces to obtain the information for our next objective. I hope it is worth the effort because the man carries no more of the sort. The Father trusts that Shevat will put it to good use and wishes us luck on our quest.
Day: 7, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Burgomeister's (Ireena) Mansion, Vallaki
Note: The business in Vallaki is progressing as expected, Muriël is on a mission for the ravens, Gorepaw reeks of decay, his scratch marks are infectious and deadly (after hours), There was information dropped about the coffin maker, it may have been money that helped him to cooperate with the enemy.
The others discussed Ireena's safety, because Strahd has reached Vallaki. I trust that she is well, if he could have visited us all this time, he would have already made an effort to see her as well. He does have interests in her, I doubt that he seeks for her downfall if what he wants is to make him his bride. Forced romance, it always starts with rejection, then it turns ugly. Oh I know many stories like this. That vampire better keep his distance from the Burgomeister, no matter if temporary or not. They discussed the need for tools on the way, the ones that Pyre broke when she tried to break the lock to the research room inside the catacomb. And referred to the blacksmith to fix them. I do not know if he supports such acts but we could as well pick up Tibirin's armor before fighting Gorepaw. At first, we'll need to report to the Burgomeister about our discoveries and further discussion about our objective.
We reached the door of the large building and made our way to the office. Paperwork was, again, everywhere when we arrived inside the room. Ireena works restlessly here, that much is clear from her frustrated expression in between all the papers. She was happy to see us, not so happy about the news that Strahd came by for a celebration. Yshvara let her know that he requested us to let him inside our residence. I saw her judgemental expression and smiled a little to myself. She looked at her with a shock that he was allowed to enter. I let a comment drop. "Don't ask me, they did it ..."
I felt a strong presence grow from behind me. Yshvara and Shevat explained to her that we weren't in the position to resist. A mixed expression was returned by our superior. I looked over my shoulder at that moment and met eyes with the murderous look in Tibirin's gaze. I gave him a smile and returned a mental message that I didn't lie about it. He returned a death threat back at me while the others continued their conversation. He'll use me as a sacrifice to stop a ship from crashing into a dock? I could not resist letting out a chuckle and gave him permission to do as he pleases.
Muriël is currently not present, she will be back in about three hours. I do not have anything to measure the hours but we still have tasks to attend to and Shevat, too, is eager to discuss with his spirits again. The Burgomeister doesn't seem very informed about Shevat's hobbies when he speaks of it, so I told her not to mind him. She is aware that he "does that from time to time" as Yshvara said.
I addressed her about Gorepaw's details again, asking if she believes that the creature can be pacified or not. She doesn't know, honestly she did not. She has heard that the bear is exceptionally aggressive and a bit "weird". We asked what it meant. The bear is reported to smell of decay. A scratch mark was passed onto one of the hunters, it got infected and it caused the man to die hours later. This may be a curse or poison. It's best to keep distance or keep it from moving. We may not like it near us ... I told them that I'll leave it to the expert, Shevat. The druid thanked me for my confidence in him. *Oh, you have all my confidence. Just don't get yourself killed in my presence.
Yshvara turned to me and asked if I have experience in the field of restoring curses. Actually, I do, but I do not know if it is powerful enough. And besides, I need to touch the creature. I am not resistant to any harm that the creature can inflict. If I were to remove a curse on a creature, I must place my full strength onto them and the strongest I can get is when I get up close. I do not mind the sacrifice but truly, will it do any good? I will be prepared to use it if the situation asks for it.
The Burgomeister told us that they do not wish to waste their resources to deal with the coffin maker and so, they let him "exist". I understand their priorities but letting the man go? I won't understand. Then again, I am neither in the position to judge over his sins nor do I have the orders to. Our time here has come to an end, we must leave to attend our remaining business. She will send Muriël to us when she returns. Until then, we are dismissed, on to our next tasks. She spoke of a match against Tibirin when we will return right before we left.
They really seem close . . . I hope that we will bring this mission to an end without suffering any deaths.
We left her office.
Location: Headquarters, Vallaki
NPCs met: hendrik van der voort (Coffin maker)
Side Note: The hags and the count are not cooperating, the shoemaker that is saved is supposingly alive and is living in Krezk, Strahd seems to approve of the behavior of the people of Krezk but considers the Abbot a peculiar man, he remains interested in his "divine mission". According to the count, the Abbot wishes for nothing else than the realm of Barovia to become a "better" place. Both Yshvara and the Abbot are revealed to be Aasimar.
(Remarks marked by *
The skies were darker than usual, implying that nightfall is to come when we stood face to face with the vampire Lord, himself. Strahd von Zarovich stood on our doorstep, awaiting us like a loyal dog of some sort. The vampire made it sound like he'd been standing around for a while, almost as if he hadn't expected us to stop by the tavern for Arvirin's and everyone else's sake. The man was willing to invite us for dinner inside our own assigned residence. It's odd but what to expect from someone so full of himself?
Again, he asked us whether or not he may enter. Knowing that he will likely use unnecessary ways to get inside or take our heads, Yshvara allowed the man inside. She added that it is His Realm after all. It's sad but true but I didn't like it even a little. I kept my voice low, muttering all kinds of insults to the man under my breath. Who does he think he is? What does he think he is doing? If he truly needs permission to enter a building inside his own realm, then that is at least something where we are considered safe from him. I wonder if it applies to traveling tents as well, if it happens to be the case, I better get my hands on one of them when we end up traveling after all.
Just when we were planning to follow the man inside, Tibirin suddenly raised his hand and walked off. What's the meaning of this? ...
The vampire immediately noticed it and addressed him. He looked over to him and it looked like he was casting a spell on the guy but it had no effect. Yshvara noticed it as well and quickly tried to convince Tibirin to come inside before things would take an ugly turn. Strahd decided to enter the house. For some reason, the big cat changed his mind and entered as well. What's the point of abandoning us all of a sudden, Tibirin ...
All of us entered, we were led to the dining room inside the mansion and took our seats at the chairs when we were told. I felt like a hostage inside this building. The only reason why I will not reach for my weapon is the fact that a mere minion of his has given me these bad memories, who knows what damage this vampire will inflict on us if I will? Or rather said, what will become of the others if I would? It was already getting tense when Arvirin didn't take a seat on the chair but on the floor and when he was given instructions to sit at the table, the wood elf sat on TOP of the table with all the magical food standing around. How he managed to find a space among all that food is simply impressive but with another order coming from the man who adores table manners more than common sense, he had the boy sitting on the chair, at last. Tibirin was not so cooperative and refused to take a seat, instead he would stand against the door behind me.
I sat on the complete other side of the table, facing the vampire lord to keep a close eye on his each and every movement. He is just here for a talk, he said, but there was no clear subject that he felt urged to discuss with us other than our general discoveries and replies to our many suspicions and assumptions about him. He's not feeling guilty about anything at all, it's like he is without blood on his hands while his people are dying by his decisions. Those minions follow his orders, do they not? Is he not concerned with the well being of the people in his realm?
They oppose him, he says, convinced that taking them out will silence them. Everyone is tense around him, nobody will refer to him in a positive manner unless they are one of this obsessed henchmen. And I doubt even they are having a good time in Castle Ravenloft. While discussing, the count mentioned something odd. Something like a limited capacity of souls in Barovia, tied to only the ones who are born here. There are people, he said, that are born without a soul, born without the feeling of happiness or joy. He mentioned a name that I read about, it's a fisherman that this group has interacted with, Bluto. He is one of the examples, Strahd admitted. Taking out those people will allow new ones to be born with a soul, born with happiness.
I believe I have never heard of a concept so absurd. I understand that a realm like this is limited in its ways but I doubt that any living being can speak of happiness when living on the lands that are ruled by some villain. Threat is behind each and every corner, fear for survival is everywhere. The difference between the poor and rich will increase over the upcoming years and I wonder how these men and women are going to survive if the land runs dry. Eventually, animals will no longer have what it takes to survive. Can he really speak so highly of himself? Ruling a dying realm? He should be ashamed of himself! Why be concerned about things that do not touch him? If all he needs is the blood of the living.
I wonder when he was turned into a vampire. I doubt he was just born as one. Was it a willing progress? Was it not? Are the litch experimentations really of his concern or is it a progress that he is unaware of? Can this man not just turn anyone into one of his immortal toys? Or is it a mere interest? A hobby? Many questions passed my mind when I saw him. I was surprised to hear him answer, to hear him respond to our questions. That's the least I expected from a noble so very powerful ... What is it that he wants from us? He just wants us to bring the change? What change is he anticipating?
I looked down at the food again. It didn't seem to cool down and the count claimed that it was all freshly prepared. Almost like a celebration. I observed the response of the others. Arvirin has no trouble at all to just dig in and grab what he wanted, revealing little table manners again but the attention of the vampire was elsewhere. I decided not to eat anything. I will not let any of his magic reach me. There is no way that he has prepared all of this, at most, this has to be an illusion of some sort. Even if it did smell like real food. Later on, I reached for one of the bottles that striked me as familiar. Red dragon crush. I poured it into my glass and drank from it. It also tastes real, the bottle also had the regular weight of a full bottle. No liquor was enough for me to keep quiet, not to at least let some of my disagreements slip. I can't stand it, not being able to do a single thing while facing a threat sitting right in front of me on the other side of the table.
When Pyre asked the man about his purpose for arriving at our doorstep, he points at the feast he has prepared, saying that he'd only like to reward us for rebuilding Vallaki. It are the people who are rebuilding, we are merely taking out the trash. It is a shame that the biggest garbage came to visit that we can't simply take care of. Yshvara added that there is still a lot left for Vallaki to take care of in order to rebuild from the massive damage that has taken place inside its broken walls. The subject continued when I asked him how it felt to take out all those people but the count considers it a "necessary evil" he could only mention that if a city protests against the Lord of the land, that it is in his right to "inflict punishment". We referred to the burgomeister, the count, too, was convinced he isn't a good man. Even when I asked him why he would not take out that single man instead of the people around it, he spoke of the necessary reform that the city of Vallaki would need. Even when almost none of the people are left, he was blind and refused to give in, returning that it is rebuilding just fine.
He is clearly blinded by his powers. Is it not ridiculous that nobody notice the enemy standing around in their city? Do they not recognize their ruler? It is a relationship that he must reconstruct and not through threat or death of the innocent. Shevat seemed to have contact with the man as well when he took care of the land outside of Vallaki's borders to fertialize the ground for future purposes. It seems like the count let it happen, he allowed him to support them. Shevat asked if he will no longer interfere with the reconstruction of the city in the future as well. Count von Zarovich said that he has no such intention as long as the people know their place.
One of his minions, Stasia appears to disobey her objectives and she's already on his list, the vampire lord says. He'll take care of her but he won't offer us any help to deal with the hags. He claims that they came before him, they use a type of ancient magic that is different from what he knows, and because of that, he cannot share with us their location. They are too "sneaky". It seems to be our only common enemy. He shared that a single hag is not powerful enough, they are only powerful in a group.
He spoke of Krezk, the other city, in a very positive manner as well. The people there know their place. Strahd seems to support their religion and has no trouble with the burgomeister, Dimitri Krezkov in charge there. When Yshvara's origin was confirmed to be Aasimar, a human blessed by the divine, he also confirmed that the Abbot has a lot in common with her. He is not from this land, he comes from outside, like us. Strahd considers him a peculiar man but his divine mission seems of his interests. Abbot wishes for this place to be "better" and works tirelessly to achieve it. He might be interested in meeting us, we were told by the man. I doubt that I'll get along with anyone who can get along with a man that has nothing but self interests. I guess we will see, if we are ever done in this troubled city. I hope that when the days past, that there will be walls standing from which they can protect themselves against the harm coming from outside the dangerous woods.
Our conversation continued, we had our answer why we were brought here. I finally let out my frustrations about it, that he just dragged us inside. I know from the journal that they are here by free will, but I was on a mission, I had to abandon a man in need for my protection and was lured inside to never leave again. Finally, I did it. How he is just wasting my time, I could have been helping people, saving lives but I am stuck here. He replied that I could save multiple lives here, but those are lives of people that he will just kill in future generations. What meaning do they have to him? They are just pawns in his little, boring game.
I heard Yshvara's voice in my head and grew annoyed with what she said, I told her not to say things like that when it came to the attention to the rest of the group. It's rude to have conversations on your own, Strahd claimed and Yshvara was quick to adapt to the situation, telling me not to be so rude in the presence of the count. *
"Would you like to go back to where you were?", the count suddenly asked. "Back to your old job ... Sitting in a dark room ... Questioning ... Is that what you want, Viiris?"
I hate hearing my name coming from a stranger's mouth, I hate it, to hear how he turns my memories against me. Why is it that he speaks of them in the company of these people? I asked him how it is possible but clearly, he told me that he didn't have to look far to see what is hidden. "Your scars are visible for anyone to see. You're not fooling anyone but yourself."
This is absurd. Simply absurd ...
I reached for my glass to continue drinking and kept quiet until my next opportunity, and it didn't take long before I got warned for commenting the another thing that he could not answer me. I was getting rude, he told me. How impolite of me ...
I did my best to suppress the comments and observed how the others interacted with him. It sickens me how well Shevat gets along with the count, he would almost refer to him as an ally. But luckily, Tibirin is on the opposite side. That vampire sure knows how to get on his nerves, as well. Strahd said that he appreciates Tibirin's honesty and values it in a friend. That's when Tibirin finally unleashed what he wanted to say and I felt my faith in this group restored by each word he let out. There was a moment where things grew even more tense again, where his words were backfiring at him. Strahd asked if he was looking for a challenge, for him to become the villain he ‘desires’. Yshvara quickly forced herself in between their conversation to keep the peace, as always. She spoke some sense into Tibirin to avoid it from happening. Wise, I would not have interfered. Shevat eventually supported the two and together they somehow managed to calm the Lord down again.
He'd know better, he said, that to anger a caged animal. Tibirin made a turn and decided to leave the dining room to head inside the kitchen, leaving us behind with the count. This is probably the best decision he has made. I know exactly how he feels, truly I do. However, I can't let this man have his way. If he spills any valuable information, I am here to stay even if it is difficult to keep up with. The way this man is convinced of his own lies. I bet he got everything inside that little castle of his, all that he desires. Women, liquor, henchmen and most of all, the power and funds to make anything possible. Many of us could only dream of such power, and with it, freedom.
Finally Yshvara was forced to reveal that she is an Aasimar, half celestial, half human in her case. Uncommon, that they are, but I didn't imagine she would hide such information from us. I was starting to imagine that her appearance is nothing but an illusion and she may be some terrible creature underneath that we would potentially consider an enemy of ours. Instead, she just happens to be chosen by the divine. *
I looked over to the count and thanked him for being so helpful to get some of the secrets out of the way. So he is helpful, for once, I said. He didn't quite like it, the way I put that. I believe I crossed the line for thanking him. I do consider it to be a big mistake, indeed.
"I think you've spoken quite enough.", he said to me and he lifted his finger. My body felt lightweight for a moment, almost as if I fell backwards, tossed into a different dimension. And when I opened up my eyes, it was as if nothing changed from when I kept them shut. Absolute darkness. I was standing there, nothing was visible. I could not feel any walls when I explored the environment. I held my hands in front of me to keep me safe from hitting anything unnecessarily but it was pointless. It felt like I didn't move, like I was fixed on the spot. It's hard to detect from the darkness around me. That man probably banished me to a space to keep me quiet, I thought to myself. I let myself drop down onto the ground.
Actually, I didn't mind this. I could finally shut my eyes for a little and enjoy the silence. Whatever that comes, I thought to myself, will come. If this is the end of my line, then so be it. I cannot tell how fast time moves inside this environment but it was calming until I felt something move again.
There was light in front of my eyes again when I opened them up. I was in the dining room again. The table is still dressed with all the food but the count is no longer in sight. I was questioning the gaze of both Pyre and Yshvara in my direction when I realized what happened again. Immediately, I asked where the man was but they told me that he had left. He spared my life? ... For some reason, I had an odd feeling that he would. Mercy? I doubt it ...
None of us died this evening. We survived, all of us without a fight. He made us food. That vampire is playing with our sanity ... This is merely a game to him, he knows that he is unwelcomed among us, he knows how we think of him. He can reach our minds whenever he believes it is necessary. Offers us methods to expand certain interests in my case and that, by offering his help. Never, shall I reach for his help. *
The food was still on the table and there was no one to directly stare at me, so I moved closer to the dining table and tried a small slice of meat. It was beef and it actually tasted like it as well. It was absolutely luxurious, the way that it tasted. The odd thing about it is that after all this time, the food is still as hot as before. Either Strahd controls how this food responds inside this environment, or this food is magical. I cannot afford to get sick and I already had dinner at the Blue Water inn, I let it be as it is and went to the kitchen to see how Tibirin is doing. He was staring down at the fire. Shevat was talking to him.
It was interesting to observe their behavior from a distance. It seems like most of them finally let go of their facade. I really enjoy the way that Tibirin spoke during the conversation he had with Shevat. He and I appear to share at least a similar mindset on the outlines of the situation. I, too, appreciate his honesty and it was wise of him to keep his voice down during most of the conversation until the count asked for it specifically. What did that vampire expect, anyway? To suddenly spill the words he's been needing to hear? Foolish man ... I doubt that is what he was after.
I bet he just wanted to see how we think of him and behave when he is up close, rather than sitting comfortably with his buttocks on a luxurious chair from a safe distance. We'd be foolish to attack him immediately, I doubt that we are strong enough to take him down on the spot to begin with.
Arvirin approached me while I was standing in the kitchen and asked me if Strahd is evil or not. It's strange to me that the difference between good and evil is so difficult for him to recognize. Wouldn't he, a boy that has been enslaved and held as a prisoner, know what evil is? I doubt he is without scars to speak of the difference. I explained to him that whoever feels in the right to manipulate the innocent for more control, inflict pain and seek war by selfish means would be considered evil. That man is playing with our minds and refers to us as his toys. Can he really not tell? That man dragged us inside via one of those many minions of his, the werewolves that attacked us. I saw the boy think to himself, he was deeply in thought after the words I have shared. Then suddenly he asked me whether or not dying is a bad thing. By natural means, this is a part of the cycle of life, by murder for selfish purposes, or rather said, evil purposes, that is definitely a different subject. To me it is, anyway ... I can only hand him my answer.
I begin to wonder if my mindset is wrong ... These people seem so disorientated as if they would think of Strahd as a neutral force. At least by Shevat's words. He hasn't done anything to us? He let him cast a spell on the fields? Are we supposed to be thankful? Luckily the others felt differently and felt urged to apologize for cooperating with the count to keep the situation safe. *
I heard the conversation of the others, how badly Tibirin wanted to take his anger out on the food that was still on the dining table. It was still there until Yshvara noticed that it was no longer. He truly is watching or at least overhearing our conversation. We should not speak of our strategy plan to take him out. Ever. Then Yshvara came with a new plan and made a doll that resembles Strahd for Tibirin to take his anger out on but he didn't need it. She seemed mildly disappointed so I requested to take it instead. I have PLENTY of frustration to take out on a single doll and I HOPE that vampire was watching. I didn't want to do it in the kitchen in the company of Yshvara-El, Shevat, Tibirin and also Arvirin. With her permission, I took the doll and went up the stairs to punch it until nightfall came.
Day: 7, Time of day: Morning (9 AM)
Location: Headquarters, Vallaki
The next morning I noticed that the doll had disappeared. I was a little shocked at it and looked through the room to find any traces of its movement. It might have been the count's doing! I got myself dressed and rushed over to the bedroom of Yshvara. She might know a thing or two about it. Impatiently, I knocked on her door to see if she would open up. "Good morning" Her usual friendly looking face was revealed after the door opened up. It seems like she was already awake, good. That's when she explained to me that the doll would only last for a limited amount of time before it would disappear again. I examined her expression. She spoke truthfully, no doubt. It is not often that I witness this type of magic and I truly am impressed but with that information given, my concerns vanished and I disappeared to walk down the stairs.
We discussed briefly after I had breakfast on my own in the living room about our mission to take out Gorepaw. I needed to make a few things clear during this discussion with the pacifists of the group. They all seemed to share the thought of neutralizing the beast without inflicting immediate harm. I disagree with this attitude, this beast has fought many of Vallaki's hunters, deaths are likely among them. How can they allow it to roam around freely? Do they honestly believe that requesting it to leave is going to last for a long term? Absurd, I'm telling you. Even if it were to leave for a moment of time, who can guarantee that it will not return? We cannot risk Vallaki to suffer more harm! But after they neutralized some spectral knights by talking, I feel like it has consumed their thinking. I'll do as desired, but I'll prioritize the mission I am given by the burgomeister, no matter what. Any sign will do it for me to attack that beast.
"We don't know what the bear wants." Shevat let me know when I voiced my doubts, even after mentioning the deaths of innocent men. I doubt she is willing to talk it out, Shevat. It sounds pretty cursed to me. They did say it was corrupted! It could be protecting its babies? The hunters may have entered its territory? We aren't speaking of a regular bear, dammit! That thing is likely merged with the one of the gems of the spirits! Does it match the description? How are we going to obtain it otherwise? Most things in Barovia are simply CURSED. Yshvara tried to speak some sense into him but truly, who can convince Shevat who is used to living in some peaceful woods. Can't really blame the man.
Shevat then suddenly turned to me when we spoke of changing the state in which the bear is in, to get rid of the corruption. He revealed interests in my faith. *
Shevat said that he wishes to ask the spirit for guidance for Gorepaw. For that, he must obtain an item as an offer of sacrifice in exchange for valuable information. His expecting gaze was resting on me but I carried nothing of the sort. So we'd need to ask Father Lucian Petrovich for his help. Hopefully he will get the answers he seeks. We'll see. Luckily it will be on our way. I let them know that we need to visit the coffin maker for a coffin to transfer the corpse in the attic to the church. I refuse to transfer her in any other way than one that is respectful enough to carry a victim of Strahd's will. With the corpse location confirmed to be still inside that room, we left the residence to find the Coffinmaker.
Day: 7, Time of day: Morning (11 AM)
Location: Coffin Maker, Vallaki
The shop looked very uninviting. At the front door there is a sign in the shape of a coffin and it's only two stocks high of a building. The windows are shut, not allowing any sight inside. It looks abandoned from the looks of it. I took a step forth to knock on the door but there was no response. No movement was heard on the other side. I knocked a little louder, feeling the frustration get to me again. This traitor kept those vampires inside. If he is inside, he better hurry up and open the door, I thought to myself. No response, again. Suddenly Arvirin walked past me and punched the door, as if he tried to violently copy me. I simply took my distance in case things would turn for the worst. Discussing with myself in mind if I should take responsibility for his behavior or not.
After a single punch, there was still no response. It is odd but if he truly is no longer here, I considered trying to investigate this wicked store. Curiously, I watched Arvirin damage the door. I took more distance when more of the door started to break. This door is in such a terrible condition or this boy is simply too strong, I thought to myself. A third punch was aimed at the door and afterwards, there were footsteps heard from the other side. Nervosity got to me. How are we going to explain the damage? No, he's our enemy! ... I can't let it get to me ...
The door opened up. An old man with a beard was standing behind it. He looked depressed, reeked of alcohol and was not in the mood for a talk. I saw his gaze going left and right to see all of us. An unmotivated voice reached our ears. "Can I help?" Yshvara got straight to business and addressed our need for our coffin. "You need an empty coffin?" he asked in return. I was staring at him intensely. That's probably the strangest thing to ask. He has ones that are "full"? ... He should probably stay away from the liquor and simply go straight to jail. He has one for us, yes, he doesn't even ask for a fee. Strange ...
He disappeared for a while, then came from a different direction of the house, carrying a coffin to hand it to us. Arvirin still handed him some gold. There was little interaction, he held up his hand to accept the money. Well, Arvirin, I think he can put the money to good use to replace that door you ruined. When I raised my voice, I heard his frustrations leave him. He's not up to chat, is he? Such a shame ...
I asked if it was true that vampires were hidden inside the building and rested my gaze on his facial expression. "Are you here to take me in?", he asked in return. I felt more frustration fill me from inside. Definitely, I would love to. "If I could, I would." I said to him, He looks like he is well aware of his crime, but that wouldn't stop me from wanting to drag him to the guards to throw him behind the bars which he deserves. "For what reason did you hide them?" I asked him when only silence followed. "I do not wish to talk." That is when he walked back inside the house, as his only defense. "Enjoy your coffin." I let out a chuckle and thanked him when the door fell shut. Arvirin turned over to us and asked if the broken man would be alright. Yshvara seemed concerned with his condition as well, I on the other hand, only felt the complete opposite. I was frustrated with this situation, he got away with murder for his cooperation. Unacceptable ...
But a woman who is no longer is clearly more important than a traitor. I needed to get us moving in the direction of our assigned residence to put the woman to proper rest. I cannot believe that we are cleaning up the mess of his doing, he was a part of it. No matter if he wasn't in the position to discuss, he could have dropped the information to get rid of those damned vampires when the time was right. I doubt he has ever made an attempt. On our way back, Arvirin voiced his concerns. It is the fact that the old man looked sad, he said that if I were to look sad then he would want to hug me as well. Honestly, this boy doesn't understand the weight of that man's guilt. I hope that he is happy to have survived the attack in which many have given up their lives. There aren't many survivors and he was with the enemy all this time. Yshvara promised the man to return and added that it is easy to be deceived, to not beat himself up over it. Neither does she seem to understand it.
I do not feel responsible for him in any possible way, neither will I cooperate to make him feel any better. I do wish to know what made him want to cooperate with them. Is this a long term service? Or was it just a single time use? Because, truly, can we trust this man inside Vallaki's borders?
Day: 7, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Headquarters/Church, Vallaki
Back at the residence, we carefully placed the corpse of the woman inside the coffin and carried it down the stairs respectfully, then to deliver it to the church' hallowed lands. I hope she can find peace even without fulfilling her final wish. We walked the path to the church and met with Father Lucian again. He told us that she did have a family grave, her husband might not be among them but at least she will not be entirely on her own. She will be with her family on hallowed ground. This part of the graveyard looked better than most. It felt good to give this poor woman some rest here. I have helped the Father to dig for a space large enough for the coffin to fit.
Once we have taken care of the task, Shevat could finally address his interests in the offering. He paid a fair 25 gold pieces to obtain the information for our next objective. I hope it is worth the effort because the man carries no more of the sort. The Father trusts that Shevat will put it to good use and wishes us luck on our quest.
Day: 7, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Burgomeister's (Ireena) Mansion, Vallaki
Note: The business in Vallaki is progressing as expected, Muriël is on a mission for the ravens, Gorepaw reeks of decay, his scratch marks are infectious and deadly (after hours), There was information dropped about the coffin maker, it may have been money that helped him to cooperate with the enemy.
The others discussed Ireena's safety, because Strahd has reached Vallaki. I trust that she is well, if he could have visited us all this time, he would have already made an effort to see her as well. He does have interests in her, I doubt that he seeks for her downfall if what he wants is to make him his bride. Forced romance, it always starts with rejection, then it turns ugly. Oh I know many stories like this. That vampire better keep his distance from the Burgomeister, no matter if temporary or not. They discussed the need for tools on the way, the ones that Pyre broke when she tried to break the lock to the research room inside the catacomb. And referred to the blacksmith to fix them. I do not know if he supports such acts but we could as well pick up Tibirin's armor before fighting Gorepaw. At first, we'll need to report to the Burgomeister about our discoveries and further discussion about our objective.
We reached the door of the large building and made our way to the office. Paperwork was, again, everywhere when we arrived inside the room. Ireena works restlessly here, that much is clear from her frustrated expression in between all the papers. She was happy to see us, not so happy about the news that Strahd came by for a celebration. Yshvara let her know that he requested us to let him inside our residence. I saw her judgemental expression and smiled a little to myself. She looked at her with a shock that he was allowed to enter. I let a comment drop. "Don't ask me, they did it ..."
I felt a strong presence grow from behind me. Yshvara and Shevat explained to her that we weren't in the position to resist. A mixed expression was returned by our superior. I looked over my shoulder at that moment and met eyes with the murderous look in Tibirin's gaze. I gave him a smile and returned a mental message that I didn't lie about it. He returned a death threat back at me while the others continued their conversation. He'll use me as a sacrifice to stop a ship from crashing into a dock? I could not resist letting out a chuckle and gave him permission to do as he pleases.
Muriël is currently not present, she will be back in about three hours. I do not have anything to measure the hours but we still have tasks to attend to and Shevat, too, is eager to discuss with his spirits again. The Burgomeister doesn't seem very informed about Shevat's hobbies when he speaks of it, so I told her not to mind him. She is aware that he "does that from time to time" as Yshvara said.
I addressed her about Gorepaw's details again, asking if she believes that the creature can be pacified or not. She doesn't know, honestly she did not. She has heard that the bear is exceptionally aggressive and a bit "weird". We asked what it meant. The bear is reported to smell of decay. A scratch mark was passed onto one of the hunters, it got infected and it caused the man to die hours later. This may be a curse or poison. It's best to keep distance or keep it from moving. We may not like it near us ... I told them that I'll leave it to the expert, Shevat. The druid thanked me for my confidence in him. *
Yshvara turned to me and asked if I have experience in the field of restoring curses. Actually, I do, but I do not know if it is powerful enough. And besides, I need to touch the creature. I am not resistant to any harm that the creature can inflict. If I were to remove a curse on a creature, I must place my full strength onto them and the strongest I can get is when I get up close. I do not mind the sacrifice but truly, will it do any good? I will be prepared to use it if the situation asks for it.
The Burgomeister told us that they do not wish to waste their resources to deal with the coffin maker and so, they let him "exist". I understand their priorities but letting the man go? I won't understand. Then again, I am neither in the position to judge over his sins nor do I have the orders to. Our time here has come to an end, we must leave to attend our remaining business. She will send Muriël to us when she returns. Until then, we are dismissed, on to our next tasks. She spoke of a match against Tibirin when we will return right before we left.
They really seem close . . . I hope that we will bring this mission to an end without suffering any deaths.
We left her office.
