Session #41: Farewell, Divine Hero
Jan. 14th, 2024 06:30 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
istainionDay: 10, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Lake von Zarovich, North of Vallaki
Side Note: Bluto has been taken by Strahd, Stasia is no longer and neither is Tibirin ... Arvirin obtains Tibirin's magic sword.
(Remarks marked by *are written in abyssal, remarks marked by - are written in celestial, the rest of the entry is written in common)
There we stood, right in front of two eyesores with little common sense nor patience. She is eager to wrap her hands around the cure. What reason? We may never know. I had hoped that I could call it a day and return to Vallaki, but clearly I cannot leave these people behind ...
<Battle start>
I moved away from the others to keep a clear overview of the combat without inviting either of the two to make use of our position, like a nice row of books inside a bookshelf. I saw Pyre rush in the direction of Stasia, right before she disappeared. I heard the lady taunt us again, reminding us what was before in the attic. Oh, I remember ... A little too well.
Before the fight started, I knew that this would become rough. If everyone remains standing, I thought, then this had to be a blessing. However, I am not convinced we will. I had my eyes fixated on both her and Bluto, or whatever is left of a man these people know. Pumped with questionable materials to maintain a shape so large. If he was still truly alive, that was left to be questioned.
I saw him move toward the group, making the earth shake with each of his steps to reach the others. He stomped the ground, causing the earth to shake even more around the coastline, causing everyone standing close to Bluto to fall to the ground while taking a massive amount of damage. I felt my body flinch at the sight. This battle has only just begun but all of them are already hurt so badly. (-37 HP) I picked up the speed and moved inside their range to prepare an aura that would bless each of them and keep them from harm. (Beacon of Hope) Shevat managed to cure Arvirin from his condition at that moment, his usual movement speed has been affected by one of the spells Stasia forced on us, luckily ... It is no longer.
The battle continued and things were finally starting to look better. We made progress on taking down Bluto in which I assisted. During the struggle, I suddenly felt a presence behind me, draining my life energy with a strange strike. I saw the sand suddenly move up in the air when Bluto fell prone to the ground after the sound of thunder coming from Tibirin's greatsword. Is it progress that we are making? ... I can't say for sure. Each of them is in a terrible condition and clearly, they are out of my range. I noticed that when the sand fell down again, Bluto was bleeding. The fluids that escaped him, they weren't red, like most living beings have, instead, black.
What did that woman do to this man? And why is he cooperative? Has he always been a part of them? Or does she have him under a spell? It is difficult to tell, and of little urgency now, with an opponent so strong. Taking him out is being merciful. I doubt any of us is proficient with undead experiments anyway ...
Both Tibirin and Arvirin knocked him out, leaving him among the living. For now, anyway. If there is no way to reverse it, I will gladly take him out of his misery while he is unconscious. I moved closer to his body and in range of Tibirin, fixating my gaze on our target with a single desire.
Take out the shadow witch to repay my debt.
I marked her life force for termination, cursing her for the others to land their hits on her for an effective result with determination in my eyes. She disappeared from the spot again and moved closer to Tibirin and I, soon to be chased down by Pyre to attack her. However, her attempts have failed and so did my mark disappear. It was a waste, but there is nothing we can do about it. Again, she moved away. However, this time, she was far away from us. Standing on top of the hill with a look on her face that would cause fear within the hearts of the barely standing. The situation wasn't good, far from that, I could tell.
Our gaze met, I felt my body flinch once again when she pointed her finger in my direction. A small green light formed around her finger, right before it struck right through me. I felt the strength in my limbs immediately weaken, barely keeping myself standing. I felt like I was close to falling over, like I am close to falling apart entirely.
Please, not again ... Not now.
Hope was leaving me in a situation so overwhelming. I cannot leave them behind just yet, I thought to myself. I cannot again, fail them. And with it, my only faith ... I could no longer concentrate to grant others the aura of hope and was only barely breathing. (58 necrotic DMG) I suddenly felt a rough force pull on my collar and before I knew it I saw Tibirin up close and place his hand on top of my chest. I felt an intense sensation I have never felt before, a different origin ...
My vision immediately grew sharp and the noises coming from around me, they were no longer mere distant echoes. I recall the nervous expression on his face and I asked him with the strength I was granted by his divine energy. "Why ..." -Why is it that he would waste it on me? Has he heard the thoughts calling for another chance? ... He should save it for himself ...
He taunted Stasia, who frowned back at him. "Oh, you haven't had enough ..." I heard her say. "It's not over until I am in the ground." Tibirin responded while gritting his teeth. I felt myself smile at his words. -He has more courage than I will ever have ...
"That can be arranged~" Stasia smiled back at him, she was in a perfect state, almost as if she hadn't taken a single hit. Tibirin looked back at me and answered me. "She has killed enough and I have an oath to keep." He's right. He is absolutely right. I returned him a smile in mutual agreement. "This woman is a nightmare ..."
Yshvara moved closer to us and turned to her. "Fleshy monstrosities really haven't been helping you out at this point, again, you need a new hobby." Stasia frowned back at her, overcasted by the confident smile on her face. "You know what? I'll make it my hobby to make a nice new toy out of you ..." I wish I could hit her in the face for exactly that phrase. This nonsense needs to have an end to it ...!
"I think you're stumbling on the new hobby there, that sounds a lot like your old one. It's not very helpful." Yshvara responds. I wonder what strength she uses to keep those insults coming, it's as if she becomes better with each fight. What did she do? Comedy?
After regaining my strength thanks to them, I stepped away from them to catch each of them, again, with my aura. May they be safe. Pyre who previously stood near me has disappeared all of a sudden and reappeared near Stasia to land an effective attack on her with massive damage. (43 DMG) I was impressed. It looked like we actually had a chance now ... An insult left her lips as she held her hand in front of her eye. *May she suffer and disappear from this land ...
Shadows begin to gather around the hand and blood begins to pour out of her. The view, even from afar, was a disgusting sight. A creature of such disgraceful nature should simply vanish and I will gladly help her dissolve into thin air ... May we never see her again after we are done, and may each of them make it out alive.
Her shadow-covered hand went in Pyre's direction, as if she was going to choke her as a threat. Her gaze is resting on Shevat, to which she points at. "You give me what I want now or she will die ..." I turned my head to Shevat with a frown. This cannot be happening ... What is she doing ...
I looked back at her. It looks like she is gathering all her strength for one, final spell and uses it to threaten us. I looked back at Shevat, no matter what he decides to do at this point, I will not interfere. I trust that he will make a good decision, to spare one of our allies clearly has priority. That girl, there is another way to save her, it isn't over yet, however, if Pyre were to take the full force ... It might be the end for her. Would it be worth it? But why is it that she needs that powerful remedy ...
It was as if the wind stopped and the noises around us silenced in this pressing moment. Our gazes were resting on Shevat, mixed thoughts expressed through various facial expressions. It's a lot of pressure to take, to decide over life and death. To cure or rescue ... Shevat reached for his bag and took out the item Stasia is eager for and placed it on top of Bluto's body on which he was at and took his distance from it by a few steps. Wise decision ... I expect no less. Whatever she intends to do with it, we will simply strike it down again ...
Stasia looked at each of us, some of us were shocked with the decision, others accepted it. Black blood is pouring from her eyes, surrounded in a black fire and her hand is covered in shadows.
"Pyre ..." Tibirin's voice suddenly sounded. "Huh?" Their gaze met. "Do you trust me?" he asked her. "... Absolutely I do." she said with a nervous expression. What is he planning?
"Okay. I apologize for whatever happens next." He looked down on the ground for a moment and shut his eyes before taking a steady grip around his weapon. "Go for it." She confirmed. He opened back up his eyes and disappears all of a sudden, then reappeared near the Pyre and Stasia in the distance. Immediately he holds out his blade to pierce it through her. A very bright light enchanted his weapon as it struck her undead body. She is barely holding on, but she seems to have survived it. I felt the cold sweat on my forehead from watching how the scene unfold in front of me. I reached out to my amulet for a moment.
This isn't according to plan ... What is he doing?!
Her hand's direction changed from Pyre to Tibirin in that moment, marking him as her target for whatever will come. The distance is too far for me to interfere in that moment ... I looked over to the others. Are they allowing this to happen? ...
A black ray struck the tabaxi, but there was no reaction yet. Then suddenly, the fur on his skin started to wither and change its colors to gray. Again, it was as if everything stood still in that moment, no sound, nothing, just that, what happened in the distance. I felt frozen to the ground at this moment, unable to speak or move, I could only watch. His body was weakening, similar, as it did with mine when she robbed me from my strength. It was as if he was about to faint but then he dropped his sword, jumped at her and bit her in the neck. His teeth radiated a bright white light when he did. It was like his natural instincts came to life in his final moment. We all experienced how the radiant light was clashing with Stasia's shadows. The bright light swirled around the shadows like a tornado. Previously, it was rather bright but when she came and this all happened, it was as if everything grew dark and this is all we could see. Then suddenly, an implosion followed after the darkness got consumed by the light.
Quickly, I reached for my longsword again and took a step forward, ready to jump at any sign of them, hoping to get Tibirin back up.
But when the dust was settled ... Nothing, but the sword and a crater in the ground remained.
<Battle end>
My muscles felt frozen in that moment, it was as if something tied me on the spot, doomed to watch the outcome of an overwhelming battle come to an end. I had to observe the others get away in time for the implosion and our divine companion vanish along with the enemy. He had apologized for the outcome, that he did ... Tibirin, why did you ... That should have been me if anyone ... Not you, not anyone else ... Now the task is with us, to get rid of the final remains ... That is, if they intend to keep up with me. Even if not, I would chase down the same goal even on my own ... Or assign myself to become one of Vallaki's guards ...
So many thoughts crossed me at that moment while my body felt frozen from the shock but when I saw Pyre move toward the hill to take a closer look, I managed to force myself to move and to assist her in the process. If we can only find anything, anything like a reminder of who he is. Though when we became close, all we saw was the same as we did from a distance. A crater that is warm to the touch and his weapon laying on the ground. Certainly, one of us can hold onto it, if not anyone, I could ... Though, I could never replace him. Ever.
Each of us took a moment to process what happened, Yshvara picked up her instrument to sing us a song of farewell. It wasn't pleasant but it was beautiful, we couldn't wish for a better farewell to the man who protected us all through the sacrifice of himself.
. . .
When the song met its end, our attention was aimed at the one who remained. Bluto, the fisherman or what remained of him. Shevat inspected him and shared with us his finds. Bluto's body is made of dead flesh and no matter how he were to look at it, he considered it an abomination. Bluto is living in a state that is neither dead or truly alive but he is considered alive. It was strange, matches what makes an undead entirely, but it is not ... A true abomination against nature, he said, I expect no less from a man of his kind. The others are convinced that it must have been a painful experience for him, given the sadistic nature of the woman who did that to him. I couldn't help but agree. He's merely one of her many repulsive biological experiments, barely aware of his own doings given his behavior and not only that, he appeared loyal to Stasia as well. I care little about a man who cooperates with evil forces. To kill him would be merciful, getting rid of his suffering and place in this forsaken environment. But, I hestitated, for Tibirin's sake.
Yshvara, who claimed herself to be close with him, said that if Tibirin were here and the outcome of Shevat's inspection would lead to the results he collected, he would want nothing else but to relieve him from his suffering. Yes, he does strike me like that type of man ... So I offered my services and drained him from his last breath, considering it a less painful experience than to simply pierce my weapon through his body. In the end, an enemy remains an enemy ... Those who take away the security of struggling survivors is a threat and must be dealt with.
I felt Arvirin's touch during this process. It was strange ... Why would he? Is it reassurance? He was holding my free hand. I felt a sensation when I drained Bluto's energy, there was a connection to this land. Mist was gathering around my feet. The job was taken care of. His body grew darker, but his appearance remained. - I hope he has lived a fine life until it ended, may his sins be forgiven ...
What happens to his remains, I left that decision with the others. I merely fulfill my duty. Each of us knows that it is dangerous to leave a body behind, so they propossed cremating him and keep his ashes in an urn inside his shed. I approved of the ideal and was eager to obtain an urn from Vallaki while the others would stay with the body.
To ensure that nothing would happen to him, I warded his body. I won't let anyone to simply use him again and especially not that cursed vampire Lord and his group of rejects ...
And when Shevat suggested a rest and I wanted to make way for Vallaki, an oddly familiar voice reached us when suddenly a tall man with pale skin appeared in noble clothing. Strahd ...
*You're kidding me ...
Not all of us were as happy to see his dirty face around. In truth, no one was, Arvirin is seemingly indifferent about it. I immediately addressed my previous thoughts and asked the Lord if he is proud of his servant's doing. "She has served me well. I am mourning her loss as you are mourning your friend(s)." He hadn't expected us to have it in us, he said, to actually finish her. It came with a cost and the credit now belongs to him. Yshvara asked if there is a reason why he is here among us at this given moment. He looked at her and said "I felt Stasia's essence slip my grasp and came to investigate."
Nothing truly slips him, does it ... Then why did he not take care of her like he said he would? Not that I trust the word of a lazy noble that is sick from excessive power. I saw Pyre place her hand on Yshvara's shoulder and saw the hostile expression on her face. That man is lucky that we have such intelligent people here, no one is willing to fight and neither did I ...
I asked the Lord if she was taking orders from him. Not quite, he said. He left her to her own devices. "A lot of fruitful things came from her research." Strahd then pointed at Bluto. I couldn't believe my ears when I think back at what cost her so-called research came. Many lives of the innocent were taken. Isn't his might enough already to keep a power-infested man satisfied? He honestly needs to keep pushing it? What is it for? Personal amusement?
"So you had no intention to actually keep your word and take her out?" I asked him. He didn't expect us to go this far and even when Yshvara asked why he didn't stop us, he told us that he isn't that powerful. Who is he trying to convince? Himself or us? It doesn't work on me. The situation is as it is now ...
Shevat turned to the Lord and asked if he would allow us a safe passage to Vallaki and back. He agreed, he would allow us a safe passage. I just fail to understand why Shevat would waste his time on this talking monstrosity of a man. I honestly did think that he didn't agree with Stasia's methods, but his words sound different. Yshvara got in between and told me not to make a scene, the reason, she says, he would grant us a safe passage is for that same reason. Is she also close with him to know that?
Strahd agreed and said I should listen to my "friends", considering them brighter than I am. "I'm sure they are right ..." I responded and turned my back on them to leave them with Bluto's body and the Vampire Lord. I heard the conversation go on while I moved away. He doesn't agree with her methods but cannot deny the results, they are remarkable ... Exactly the words that you'd expect a lunatic to speak.
. . .
Already on my way to Vallaki, I suddenly heard something approaching me while I was following the coastline. When I looked over my shoulder a giant eagle was close to me, I immediately drew my longsword. It had to be a threat, why would such a large animal be sent after me after I've abandoned the others?! It flew past me and I had him locked with my gaze. Safe passage? This had to be a joke ... It was hovering close to me and made no attempts to attack me. When I asked it what it wanted from me, almost expecting an animal to answer me, it suddenly lost its shape and landed on the ground in front of me. It startled the heck out of me to see Shevat standing there. The first thing he did was to sigh at me. What did THAT supposed to mean?! ...
I immediately put away my weapon, scratching the back of my neck. I didn't make eye contact at that moment and listened to what he had to tell me. Going to Vallaki for an urn is no longer necessary for Strahd had already taken the body. Both Yshvara and Pyre fell into a deep sleep. Did they fight? What about my warding spell?! ... That cursed man ... Did they allow it?!
There was no resistance, he told me ... Wonderful. Not that I would have wished them to get into bigger danger ... I should have torn his body apart while I had the chance ... At this rate ... We might see Bluto again.
Shevat told me to head back with him, to keep Yshvara and Pyre safe from harm. With the little choice I am given, I gave in and followed the man on our way back by foot. With no one near us, I asked him first what to do next with the situation as it is now. That is when he updated me about what has been shared in the conversation. Strahd told them that the hag is causing some troubles around the vineyard, one of our many places to yet visit and that both the elves that have betrayed them are present there. Hunting the hag down for unknown reasons, ones that haven't been shared. When we go there, we might encounter both the hag and the two men. He wasn't sure about going there, so I addressed him about what I wanted to do for a while. "Are you ready to lose even more people, Shevat?" He turned his head away for a bit to shake his head. "I am not."
We made eye contact again at that moment. "I know that the hag is very dangerous, but Ailoton and Naedithas might just take care of her for us." I looked at him for a bit. Right, that is this fake name he uses. What he said is true, why would we interfere with their battle? Then again, what if that hag is the one who stole the relic? Should we not be concerned what that man will do with it?
He sighed. "I don't know what to do, maybe Yshvara does."
I frowned back at him. *He's really not going to ask me? Am I just a guard dog to him? A servant without a mind?
"Yshvara? Why would she know? Does she work for Strahd?" I did my best not to reveal my frustration toward his decision. "No." he responded. "I'd just like to know what she thinks. She's wise." I let out a forced smile and agreed then changed the subject to a more specific one. What will we do now without Tibirin by our side? Our strength has weakened without him to our defenses. "There are legends of druids who can turn the people from the dead from even hundreds of years ... And such resurrection magics are so powerful that they do not even require a body."
I felt my body freeze up. "What?"
I have heard of powerful people before in my life who are capable of such things, even followers of Ilmater. I haven't met them. Aren't they just legends? Just stories? They align with what Shevat has told me. One thing crossed my mind ... At what cost will it come? Where will we ever meet such a person?
Neither Shevat knows where to meet such a person, but he said to me that if he lives long enough, he might become such a person. And that is, he said, what gives him strength in the present moment. "... Knowing that I might see Naedithas and Tibirin again." If he works hard on it.
Can a mere human really manage that in such a fragile life? Such a limited life time? I have lived over 150 years and this is all I have achieved in my life so far. How is he different? - Whatever it is he intends to achieve, if those are his ideals, then keeping him safe is what I must.
I recalled that one name was missing from his list, so I looked at him again. "Do you only care about those two?" I asked him. Both of them are important to him. "But Ailoton ... Did something unforgivable." I narrowed my eyes and looked back at him. "Did he?" Shevat was still convinced of his decision. I stopped walking and turned to him.
"If you were as young and if you were as stupid, you would have done exactly the same thing, Shevat." Shevat averted his eyes. "Maybe." I walked up to him and blocked his path for a little. "Have you ever loved someone?" I asked him. The druid returned a surprised expression. I saw his eyes avert once more, like it caught him in a deep thought. Almost like a realization struck him. "That ..." He fell silent. "Imagine, it was your Mother, your Father, whoever you were close with that died ... And there is someone out there who can return them. Would you not take that chance?"
"Sometimes." He said, "Death is the better alternative. Would you want to see your friend come back as a vampire? I wouldn't. Even if I loved them, knowing that they would have to live such a cursed existence, such unnatural existence it would ..." Again he fell silent. It's unfair toward them, that is an agreeable statement. "So you cannot forgive someone else, who isn't strong enough to stay loyal to those morals?"
"I think Ailoton was misguided ... I need to think about what you said."
"You can ..."
. . .
We made our way back to Bluto's shed where Arvirin awaited us with the other two that were asleep. I saw him struggle with the two sleeping women, trying to get them inside the small wooden building. I took Yshvara from him and carried her inside the shed. (* Rather annoying to meet our differences in height once again) I placed my bedroll on the surface for Yshvara to lay on. Once we made it inside and had them positioned, they woke up. I immediately move backwards, away from them. They shouldn't get the wrong idea ...
Shevat talked to them and explained to them why they were put to sleep. Apparently they said a few things that Strahd didn't appreciate, so he put them to sleep. "Such a fragile ego ... I just said he should get a new hobby." Pyre complained. I silently agreed with her. They seem physically alright, at least, in the same state as before. *That bastard just put them to sleep ... The cure is still in her possession from when she took it after the battle. There have been enough sacrifices for that fluid ...
We need a short rest just to recover our strength for a little. That we did ... Then we will head back to Vallaki and meet Stella to hand her the cure ... Report to the burgomeister ... Then Yshvara added that she'd like to visit the tavern to inform the vineyard's son of the trouble with the hag. I looked over to Yshvara this time and asked her the same question. If she, too, is ready to lose their old companions. That if they were to visit the vineyard and meet them.
"Well, they are already dead." She responded. "I see, so you do not care about them?" Yshvara turned her head in my direction. "It's not that I don't care about them but they are not free." They serve the Lord of the land. "There is not a lot I can do to help them." I agreed with her. She cannot indeed. Can she, however, handle it? The aasimar admitted that she would rather avoid conflict if possible but the hag must be dealt with. It seems like those two opinions align. After all, they are the only ones who actually know them.
If it does end up in conflict and we manage to take them out ... I would like to try that. It will come with a valuable sacrifice but if I want to make a difference ...
I told her my suspicions as well, the two are probably after the relic, rather than the hag. Why is it that they would care about them if they have managed this much in the Lord's realm? He allowed their stay for so long, had so many monsters obey his every wish, but he didn't interfere. It cannot just be a coincidence, unless the hag causes more trouble than we are aware of.
We all seemed to agree on things and enjoyed a quiet moment to ourselves to rest up a little from the battle ...
After a short rest, we resumed our travel back to Vallaki. The forest we past was eerily calm, no enemies seemed to be close. It's like everything is avoiding us that would normally approach us. "It seems like the man keeps his word ..." Shevat commented. I sighed back at him. "It's probably just a coincidence ..."
Not long after, we arrived at the Northern gate of Vallaki again.
Day: 10, Time of day: Afternoon (3-4 PM)
Location: Vallaki, Wachter's mansion
Side Note: Stella has been given the potion and resting, Shevat obtained a bottle of homebrewed liquor
Since the Wachter's house is the first destination that we will come across, we decided to head to her first. The sooner it is given to her, the better. In front of the main door, one of the malisha guardsmen stood. He was quick to notice us and greeted us, I remained in the back while they spoke to him. Shevat asked if Stella has been doing well, but it seems like she is. Still convinced to be an animal, quickly proven by the scratch marks. While it is barely even a scratch, Yshvara helped the man by healing it away. It was quite nice to see his enthusiasm about it. He hasn't ever had it happen or seen before, even if it's just mild. He was quick to address a companion of his who has been complaining about back pains but there's only so much the healing can reach ...
It bothered me to hear that he doesn't take his position seriously as a guard. No matter if his colleague is letting him down. It's not the first and neither the last time that I meet incompetent guardsmen in Vallaki. Will Vallaki truly be alright? Do these men know nothing about the pride in their duty? Tragic ... I could only sigh at their interaction, when suddenly I felt Arvirin reach for my hand again. I felt my face grow warm from the surprise. Whyishedoingthissosudden.
Shevat told the guardsman that we intended to cure her and he let us pass. He asked permission for him to join us, just to watch over the process. And the man was also quick to explain why. He told us that his daughter has died during the attack and he has been taking care of Stella ever since, almost like she is his daughter. Her presence has helped him to deal with the pain of her loss. I told him not to interfere with the process and we're clear, he was quick to agree. The man would like to see Stella happy.
Well, aren't those the true words of a father? ... Heh.
He confessed that the day has been great for him, but we couldn't agree on our side. When Shevat confessed that, the man was quick to reach for his bag. Begging us not to tell his captain. I felt myself frowning at the bottle he held in his hand. Homebrewed liquor? It isn't comfort, he says, but it helps. While glaring at it, I saw Shevat's hand move toward it. Since when?
"Hard times never last, only hard people." The guardsman smiled. It was almost like he knew that something terrible had happened to us. While the gesture is kind, I cannot agree with his actions, even the slightest. If only those words were true, then Tibirin would be among us. The man moved his shoulders a little. "Sometimes, you gotta give yourself some slack. But you can make an old man very happy ... And maybe a young girl, too." Yes, hopefully those spirits speak the truth about this cure. Then again, it cured us from that state, too.
We were led to the bedroom where we are bound to find Stella. He unlocked her bedroom door for us and warned us about her aggressive tendencies before peeking inside. She seemed to be on the bed, curled up like a cat-like being. She was quick to wake up and look over to the man in front of us, already preparing herself with a defensive stance.
The guardsman stepped away to make room for Shevat to pass. Before he did, I asked if I should go in first to hold her, but Shevat preferred to do it on his own and to greet her first. Meters away from the bed, he sits down on the floor before the bed. The girl got curious and got down from the bed to sit right next to Shevat to observe him from close by. I have never seen a human act genuinely like a cat. She actually believes it, that much is clear from her body language.
Shevat looked the girl in the eyes and greeted her calmly. He made eye contact with Yshvara before making a motion at her to enter the room. The girl is cautious around the new presence that entered the room but holds her position. It wasn't all according to plan, Stella didn't seem to like her close. Shevat told the young woman that Yshvara will do no harm, that she has met her before. Like she understood the words, the girl calmed down. Shevat explained to Stella how he made something really tasty for her, promising it to be very sweet. (Was more like salty to me though, not going to deny that it was tasty)
"Would you like to try it?" he asked her. Inside the room there was a deep plate positioned. It's not the cleanest plate ... Yshvara took out the bottle with the liquid inside and revealed it to the curious girl, taking off the lid for her to smell it. The look on her face revealed mild excitement. Shevat explained what it would do, simplified as if he were to talk to a real animal. Stella appears to understand when she moved over to the plate, expecting him to pour the liquid inside. Yshvara poured it inside and immediately she started to drink from it, drinking everything in almost a single go. Immediately afterwards, she fell to the side into a deep sleep. The ones inside are relieved.
They are planning to leave her behind to rest up, which plans I will not interfere with. There was a little bit of a disagreement about letting her rest on the floor, which I failed to understand. She could potentially catch a cold if she isn't used to it and especially without a blanket. Both the guard and Yshvara carry her onto the bed. That's taken care of ... That man will inform us if anything were to happen, of that I am sure, now that he no longer holds onto that bottle.
Our next destination is the burgomeister's mansion for the report.
Day: 10, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Vallaki, Burgomeister mansion
Side Note: Ireena is kidnapped by Strahd
We met with another guard, again, he disappointed me to a point where I'd want to model his facial features with my first but I managed to refrain myself for everyone's sake. He recognized at least most of our faces, considering us heroes and if we are willing to assist him to move some crates, mentioning the backs in his pains. This may just be the guy that the other man referred to. Another lazy reject of a guardsman. Yshvara wasted her healing energies on the man but he continued to pretend that he is in severe pain, even getting worse after she casted it on him. I do believe a punch in his face would work better.
When we had time, he again asked if we could assist him. Pyre walked past him, ignoring his request. He called us cold heroes, but I never signed up to become a "hero". I am merely doing my duty. He should be, too, rather than to humiliate himself in front of us.
I was quick to follow Pyre who already moved inside, along with the others. The door was in a poor condition all of a sudden and the office was covered with paperwork, almost like a sign of an assault. And the closer we came, my suspicions have been confirmed. I saw Pyre rush over, past the desk where they found Muriël on the ground. Immediately she went down to the ground to hold her up and see how she was doing. What has happened here?! ... Why didn't that guard interfere?!
Muriël is in a terrible state, bleeding from her wounds. She is still breathing and seems to be unconscious. Shevat brought forth his spirit of healing, taking the appearance of a tiger. I smiled at it. He would have, as well ... Immediately, Muriël gasped for oxygen with her eyes wide open and she jumped up, ready for a fight when she realized that we are not the enemy. "He has got her! ..."
... You're jesting me ...
Location: Lake von Zarovich, North of Vallaki
Side Note: Bluto has been taken by Strahd, Stasia is no longer and neither is Tibirin ... Arvirin obtains Tibirin's magic sword.
(Remarks marked by *
There we stood, right in front of two eyesores with little common sense nor patience. She is eager to wrap her hands around the cure. What reason? We may never know. I had hoped that I could call it a day and return to Vallaki, but clearly I cannot leave these people behind ...
<Battle start>
I moved away from the others to keep a clear overview of the combat without inviting either of the two to make use of our position, like a nice row of books inside a bookshelf. I saw Pyre rush in the direction of Stasia, right before she disappeared. I heard the lady taunt us again, reminding us what was before in the attic. Oh, I remember ... A little too well.
Before the fight started, I knew that this would become rough. If everyone remains standing, I thought, then this had to be a blessing. However, I am not convinced we will. I had my eyes fixated on both her and Bluto, or whatever is left of a man these people know. Pumped with questionable materials to maintain a shape so large. If he was still truly alive, that was left to be questioned.
I saw him move toward the group, making the earth shake with each of his steps to reach the others. He stomped the ground, causing the earth to shake even more around the coastline, causing everyone standing close to Bluto to fall to the ground while taking a massive amount of damage. I felt my body flinch at the sight. This battle has only just begun but all of them are already hurt so badly. (-37 HP) I picked up the speed and moved inside their range to prepare an aura that would bless each of them and keep them from harm. (Beacon of Hope) Shevat managed to cure Arvirin from his condition at that moment, his usual movement speed has been affected by one of the spells Stasia forced on us, luckily ... It is no longer.
The battle continued and things were finally starting to look better. We made progress on taking down Bluto in which I assisted. During the struggle, I suddenly felt a presence behind me, draining my life energy with a strange strike. I saw the sand suddenly move up in the air when Bluto fell prone to the ground after the sound of thunder coming from Tibirin's greatsword. Is it progress that we are making? ... I can't say for sure. Each of them is in a terrible condition and clearly, they are out of my range. I noticed that when the sand fell down again, Bluto was bleeding. The fluids that escaped him, they weren't red, like most living beings have, instead, black.
What did that woman do to this man? And why is he cooperative? Has he always been a part of them? Or does she have him under a spell? It is difficult to tell, and of little urgency now, with an opponent so strong. Taking him out is being merciful. I doubt any of us is proficient with undead experiments anyway ...
Both Tibirin and Arvirin knocked him out, leaving him among the living. For now, anyway. If there is no way to reverse it, I will gladly take him out of his misery while he is unconscious. I moved closer to his body and in range of Tibirin, fixating my gaze on our target with a single desire.
Take out the shadow witch to repay my debt.
I marked her life force for termination, cursing her for the others to land their hits on her for an effective result with determination in my eyes. She disappeared from the spot again and moved closer to Tibirin and I, soon to be chased down by Pyre to attack her. However, her attempts have failed and so did my mark disappear. It was a waste, but there is nothing we can do about it. Again, she moved away. However, this time, she was far away from us. Standing on top of the hill with a look on her face that would cause fear within the hearts of the barely standing. The situation wasn't good, far from that, I could tell.
Our gaze met, I felt my body flinch once again when she pointed her finger in my direction. A small green light formed around her finger, right before it struck right through me. I felt the strength in my limbs immediately weaken, barely keeping myself standing. I felt like I was close to falling over, like I am close to falling apart entirely.
Please, not again ... Not now.
Hope was leaving me in a situation so overwhelming. I cannot leave them behind just yet, I thought to myself. I cannot again, fail them. And with it, my only faith ... I could no longer concentrate to grant others the aura of hope and was only barely breathing. (58 necrotic DMG) I suddenly felt a rough force pull on my collar and before I knew it I saw Tibirin up close and place his hand on top of my chest. I felt an intense sensation I have never felt before, a different origin ...
My vision immediately grew sharp and the noises coming from around me, they were no longer mere distant echoes. I recall the nervous expression on his face and I asked him with the strength I was granted by his divine energy. "Why ..." -Why is it that he would waste it on me? Has he heard the thoughts calling for another chance? ... He should save it for himself ...
He taunted Stasia, who frowned back at him. "Oh, you haven't had enough ..." I heard her say. "It's not over until I am in the ground." Tibirin responded while gritting his teeth. I felt myself smile at his words. -He has more courage than I will ever have ...
"That can be arranged~" Stasia smiled back at him, she was in a perfect state, almost as if she hadn't taken a single hit. Tibirin looked back at me and answered me. "She has killed enough and I have an oath to keep." He's right. He is absolutely right. I returned him a smile in mutual agreement. "This woman is a nightmare ..."
Yshvara moved closer to us and turned to her. "Fleshy monstrosities really haven't been helping you out at this point, again, you need a new hobby." Stasia frowned back at her, overcasted by the confident smile on her face. "You know what? I'll make it my hobby to make a nice new toy out of you ..." I wish I could hit her in the face for exactly that phrase. This nonsense needs to have an end to it ...!
"I think you're stumbling on the new hobby there, that sounds a lot like your old one. It's not very helpful." Yshvara responds. I wonder what strength she uses to keep those insults coming, it's as if she becomes better with each fight. What did she do? Comedy?
After regaining my strength thanks to them, I stepped away from them to catch each of them, again, with my aura. May they be safe. Pyre who previously stood near me has disappeared all of a sudden and reappeared near Stasia to land an effective attack on her with massive damage. (43 DMG) I was impressed. It looked like we actually had a chance now ... An insult left her lips as she held her hand in front of her eye. *
Shadows begin to gather around the hand and blood begins to pour out of her. The view, even from afar, was a disgusting sight. A creature of such disgraceful nature should simply vanish and I will gladly help her dissolve into thin air ... May we never see her again after we are done, and may each of them make it out alive.
Her shadow-covered hand went in Pyre's direction, as if she was going to choke her as a threat. Her gaze is resting on Shevat, to which she points at. "You give me what I want now or she will die ..." I turned my head to Shevat with a frown. This cannot be happening ... What is she doing ...
I looked back at her. It looks like she is gathering all her strength for one, final spell and uses it to threaten us. I looked back at Shevat, no matter what he decides to do at this point, I will not interfere. I trust that he will make a good decision, to spare one of our allies clearly has priority. That girl, there is another way to save her, it isn't over yet, however, if Pyre were to take the full force ... It might be the end for her. Would it be worth it? But why is it that she needs that powerful remedy ...
It was as if the wind stopped and the noises around us silenced in this pressing moment. Our gazes were resting on Shevat, mixed thoughts expressed through various facial expressions. It's a lot of pressure to take, to decide over life and death. To cure or rescue ... Shevat reached for his bag and took out the item Stasia is eager for and placed it on top of Bluto's body on which he was at and took his distance from it by a few steps. Wise decision ... I expect no less. Whatever she intends to do with it, we will simply strike it down again ...
Stasia looked at each of us, some of us were shocked with the decision, others accepted it. Black blood is pouring from her eyes, surrounded in a black fire and her hand is covered in shadows.
"Pyre ..." Tibirin's voice suddenly sounded. "Huh?" Their gaze met. "Do you trust me?" he asked her. "... Absolutely I do." she said with a nervous expression. What is he planning?
"Okay. I apologize for whatever happens next." He looked down on the ground for a moment and shut his eyes before taking a steady grip around his weapon. "Go for it." She confirmed. He opened back up his eyes and disappears all of a sudden, then reappeared near the Pyre and Stasia in the distance. Immediately he holds out his blade to pierce it through her. A very bright light enchanted his weapon as it struck her undead body. She is barely holding on, but she seems to have survived it. I felt the cold sweat on my forehead from watching how the scene unfold in front of me. I reached out to my amulet for a moment.
This isn't according to plan ... What is he doing?!
Her hand's direction changed from Pyre to Tibirin in that moment, marking him as her target for whatever will come. The distance is too far for me to interfere in that moment ... I looked over to the others. Are they allowing this to happen? ...
A black ray struck the tabaxi, but there was no reaction yet. Then suddenly, the fur on his skin started to wither and change its colors to gray. Again, it was as if everything stood still in that moment, no sound, nothing, just that, what happened in the distance. I felt frozen to the ground at this moment, unable to speak or move, I could only watch. His body was weakening, similar, as it did with mine when she robbed me from my strength. It was as if he was about to faint but then he dropped his sword, jumped at her and bit her in the neck. His teeth radiated a bright white light when he did. It was like his natural instincts came to life in his final moment. We all experienced how the radiant light was clashing with Stasia's shadows. The bright light swirled around the shadows like a tornado. Previously, it was rather bright but when she came and this all happened, it was as if everything grew dark and this is all we could see. Then suddenly, an implosion followed after the darkness got consumed by the light.
Quickly, I reached for my longsword again and took a step forward, ready to jump at any sign of them, hoping to get Tibirin back up.
But when the dust was settled ... Nothing, but the sword and a crater in the ground remained.
<Battle end>
My muscles felt frozen in that moment, it was as if something tied me on the spot, doomed to watch the outcome of an overwhelming battle come to an end. I had to observe the others get away in time for the implosion and our divine companion vanish along with the enemy. He had apologized for the outcome, that he did ... Tibirin, why did you ... That should have been me if anyone ... Not you, not anyone else ... Now the task is with us, to get rid of the final remains ... That is, if they intend to keep up with me. Even if not, I would chase down the same goal even on my own ... Or assign myself to become one of Vallaki's guards ...
So many thoughts crossed me at that moment while my body felt frozen from the shock but when I saw Pyre move toward the hill to take a closer look, I managed to force myself to move and to assist her in the process. If we can only find anything, anything like a reminder of who he is. Though when we became close, all we saw was the same as we did from a distance. A crater that is warm to the touch and his weapon laying on the ground. Certainly, one of us can hold onto it, if not anyone, I could ... Though, I could never replace him. Ever.
Each of us took a moment to process what happened, Yshvara picked up her instrument to sing us a song of farewell. It wasn't pleasant but it was beautiful, we couldn't wish for a better farewell to the man who protected us all through the sacrifice of himself.
. . .
When the song met its end, our attention was aimed at the one who remained. Bluto, the fisherman or what remained of him. Shevat inspected him and shared with us his finds. Bluto's body is made of dead flesh and no matter how he were to look at it, he considered it an abomination. Bluto is living in a state that is neither dead or truly alive but he is considered alive. It was strange, matches what makes an undead entirely, but it is not ... A true abomination against nature, he said, I expect no less from a man of his kind. The others are convinced that it must have been a painful experience for him, given the sadistic nature of the woman who did that to him. I couldn't help but agree. He's merely one of her many repulsive biological experiments, barely aware of his own doings given his behavior and not only that, he appeared loyal to Stasia as well. I care little about a man who cooperates with evil forces. To kill him would be merciful, getting rid of his suffering and place in this forsaken environment. But, I hestitated, for Tibirin's sake.
Yshvara, who claimed herself to be close with him, said that if Tibirin were here and the outcome of Shevat's inspection would lead to the results he collected, he would want nothing else but to relieve him from his suffering. Yes, he does strike me like that type of man ... So I offered my services and drained him from his last breath, considering it a less painful experience than to simply pierce my weapon through his body. In the end, an enemy remains an enemy ... Those who take away the security of struggling survivors is a threat and must be dealt with.
I felt Arvirin's touch during this process. It was strange ... Why would he? Is it reassurance? He was holding my free hand. I felt a sensation when I drained Bluto's energy, there was a connection to this land. Mist was gathering around my feet. The job was taken care of. His body grew darker, but his appearance remained. - I hope he has lived a fine life until it ended, may his sins be forgiven ...
What happens to his remains, I left that decision with the others. I merely fulfill my duty. Each of us knows that it is dangerous to leave a body behind, so they propossed cremating him and keep his ashes in an urn inside his shed. I approved of the ideal and was eager to obtain an urn from Vallaki while the others would stay with the body.
To ensure that nothing would happen to him, I warded his body. I won't let anyone to simply use him again and especially not that cursed vampire Lord and his group of rejects ...
And when Shevat suggested a rest and I wanted to make way for Vallaki, an oddly familiar voice reached us when suddenly a tall man with pale skin appeared in noble clothing. Strahd ...
*
Not all of us were as happy to see his dirty face around. In truth, no one was, Arvirin is seemingly indifferent about it. I immediately addressed my previous thoughts and asked the Lord if he is proud of his servant's doing. "She has served me well. I am mourning her loss as you are mourning your friend(s)." He hadn't expected us to have it in us, he said, to actually finish her. It came with a cost and the credit now belongs to him. Yshvara asked if there is a reason why he is here among us at this given moment. He looked at her and said "I felt Stasia's essence slip my grasp and came to investigate."
Nothing truly slips him, does it ... Then why did he not take care of her like he said he would? Not that I trust the word of a lazy noble that is sick from excessive power. I saw Pyre place her hand on Yshvara's shoulder and saw the hostile expression on her face. That man is lucky that we have such intelligent people here, no one is willing to fight and neither did I ...
I asked the Lord if she was taking orders from him. Not quite, he said. He left her to her own devices. "A lot of fruitful things came from her research." Strahd then pointed at Bluto. I couldn't believe my ears when I think back at what cost her so-called research came. Many lives of the innocent were taken. Isn't his might enough already to keep a power-infested man satisfied? He honestly needs to keep pushing it? What is it for? Personal amusement?
"So you had no intention to actually keep your word and take her out?" I asked him. He didn't expect us to go this far and even when Yshvara asked why he didn't stop us, he told us that he isn't that powerful. Who is he trying to convince? Himself or us? It doesn't work on me. The situation is as it is now ...
Shevat turned to the Lord and asked if he would allow us a safe passage to Vallaki and back. He agreed, he would allow us a safe passage. I just fail to understand why Shevat would waste his time on this talking monstrosity of a man. I honestly did think that he didn't agree with Stasia's methods, but his words sound different. Yshvara got in between and told me not to make a scene, the reason, she says, he would grant us a safe passage is for that same reason. Is she also close with him to know that?
Strahd agreed and said I should listen to my "friends", considering them brighter than I am. "I'm sure they are right ..." I responded and turned my back on them to leave them with Bluto's body and the Vampire Lord. I heard the conversation go on while I moved away. He doesn't agree with her methods but cannot deny the results, they are remarkable ... Exactly the words that you'd expect a lunatic to speak.
. . .
Already on my way to Vallaki, I suddenly heard something approaching me while I was following the coastline. When I looked over my shoulder a giant eagle was close to me, I immediately drew my longsword. It had to be a threat, why would such a large animal be sent after me after I've abandoned the others?! It flew past me and I had him locked with my gaze. Safe passage? This had to be a joke ... It was hovering close to me and made no attempts to attack me. When I asked it what it wanted from me, almost expecting an animal to answer me, it suddenly lost its shape and landed on the ground in front of me. It startled the heck out of me to see Shevat standing there. The first thing he did was to sigh at me. What did THAT supposed to mean?! ...
I immediately put away my weapon, scratching the back of my neck. I didn't make eye contact at that moment and listened to what he had to tell me. Going to Vallaki for an urn is no longer necessary for Strahd had already taken the body. Both Yshvara and Pyre fell into a deep sleep. Did they fight? What about my warding spell?! ... That cursed man ... Did they allow it?!
There was no resistance, he told me ... Wonderful. Not that I would have wished them to get into bigger danger ... I should have torn his body apart while I had the chance ... At this rate ... We might see Bluto again.
Shevat told me to head back with him, to keep Yshvara and Pyre safe from harm. With the little choice I am given, I gave in and followed the man on our way back by foot. With no one near us, I asked him first what to do next with the situation as it is now. That is when he updated me about what has been shared in the conversation. Strahd told them that the hag is causing some troubles around the vineyard, one of our many places to yet visit and that both the elves that have betrayed them are present there. Hunting the hag down for unknown reasons, ones that haven't been shared. When we go there, we might encounter both the hag and the two men. He wasn't sure about going there, so I addressed him about what I wanted to do for a while. "Are you ready to lose even more people, Shevat?" He turned his head away for a bit to shake his head. "I am not."
We made eye contact again at that moment. "I know that the hag is very dangerous, but Ailoton and Naedithas might just take care of her for us." I looked at him for a bit. Right, that is this fake name he uses. What he said is true, why would we interfere with their battle? Then again, what if that hag is the one who stole the relic? Should we not be concerned what that man will do with it?
He sighed. "I don't know what to do, maybe Yshvara does."
I frowned back at him. *
"Yshvara? Why would she know? Does she work for Strahd?" I did my best not to reveal my frustration toward his decision. "No." he responded. "I'd just like to know what she thinks. She's wise." I let out a forced smile and agreed then changed the subject to a more specific one. What will we do now without Tibirin by our side? Our strength has weakened without him to our defenses. "There are legends of druids who can turn the people from the dead from even hundreds of years ... And such resurrection magics are so powerful that they do not even require a body."
I felt my body freeze up. "What?"
I have heard of powerful people before in my life who are capable of such things, even followers of Ilmater. I haven't met them. Aren't they just legends? Just stories? They align with what Shevat has told me. One thing crossed my mind ... At what cost will it come? Where will we ever meet such a person?
Neither Shevat knows where to meet such a person, but he said to me that if he lives long enough, he might become such a person. And that is, he said, what gives him strength in the present moment. "... Knowing that I might see Naedithas and Tibirin again." If he works hard on it.
Can a mere human really manage that in such a fragile life? Such a limited life time? I have lived over 150 years and this is all I have achieved in my life so far. How is he different? - Whatever it is he intends to achieve, if those are his ideals, then keeping him safe is what I must.
I recalled that one name was missing from his list, so I looked at him again. "Do you only care about those two?" I asked him. Both of them are important to him. "But Ailoton ... Did something unforgivable." I narrowed my eyes and looked back at him. "Did he?" Shevat was still convinced of his decision. I stopped walking and turned to him.
"If you were as young and if you were as stupid, you would have done exactly the same thing, Shevat." Shevat averted his eyes. "Maybe." I walked up to him and blocked his path for a little. "Have you ever loved someone?" I asked him. The druid returned a surprised expression. I saw his eyes avert once more, like it caught him in a deep thought. Almost like a realization struck him. "That ..." He fell silent. "Imagine, it was your Mother, your Father, whoever you were close with that died ... And there is someone out there who can return them. Would you not take that chance?"
"Sometimes." He said, "Death is the better alternative. Would you want to see your friend come back as a vampire? I wouldn't. Even if I loved them, knowing that they would have to live such a cursed existence, such unnatural existence it would ..." Again he fell silent. It's unfair toward them, that is an agreeable statement. "So you cannot forgive someone else, who isn't strong enough to stay loyal to those morals?"
"I think Ailoton was misguided ... I need to think about what you said."
"You can ..."
. . .
We made our way back to Bluto's shed where Arvirin awaited us with the other two that were asleep. I saw him struggle with the two sleeping women, trying to get them inside the small wooden building. I took Yshvara from him and carried her inside the shed. (* Rather annoying to meet our differences in height once again) I placed my bedroll on the surface for Yshvara to lay on. Once we made it inside and had them positioned, they woke up. I immediately move backwards, away from them. They shouldn't get the wrong idea ...
Shevat talked to them and explained to them why they were put to sleep. Apparently they said a few things that Strahd didn't appreciate, so he put them to sleep. "Such a fragile ego ... I just said he should get a new hobby." Pyre complained. I silently agreed with her. They seem physically alright, at least, in the same state as before. *
We need a short rest just to recover our strength for a little. That we did ... Then we will head back to Vallaki and meet Stella to hand her the cure ... Report to the burgomeister ... Then Yshvara added that she'd like to visit the tavern to inform the vineyard's son of the trouble with the hag. I looked over to Yshvara this time and asked her the same question. If she, too, is ready to lose their old companions. That if they were to visit the vineyard and meet them.
"Well, they are already dead." She responded. "I see, so you do not care about them?" Yshvara turned her head in my direction. "It's not that I don't care about them but they are not free." They serve the Lord of the land. "There is not a lot I can do to help them." I agreed with her. She cannot indeed. Can she, however, handle it? The aasimar admitted that she would rather avoid conflict if possible but the hag must be dealt with. It seems like those two opinions align. After all, they are the only ones who actually know them.
If it does end up in conflict and we manage to take them out ... I would like to try that. It will come with a valuable sacrifice but if I want to make a difference ...
I told her my suspicions as well, the two are probably after the relic, rather than the hag. Why is it that they would care about them if they have managed this much in the Lord's realm? He allowed their stay for so long, had so many monsters obey his every wish, but he didn't interfere. It cannot just be a coincidence, unless the hag causes more trouble than we are aware of.
We all seemed to agree on things and enjoyed a quiet moment to ourselves to rest up a little from the battle ...
After a short rest, we resumed our travel back to Vallaki. The forest we past was eerily calm, no enemies seemed to be close. It's like everything is avoiding us that would normally approach us. "It seems like the man keeps his word ..." Shevat commented. I sighed back at him. "It's probably just a coincidence ..."
Not long after, we arrived at the Northern gate of Vallaki again.
Day: 10, Time of day: Afternoon (3-4 PM)
Location: Vallaki, Wachter's mansion
Side Note: Stella has been given the potion and resting, Shevat obtained a bottle of homebrewed liquor
Since the Wachter's house is the first destination that we will come across, we decided to head to her first. The sooner it is given to her, the better. In front of the main door, one of the malisha guardsmen stood. He was quick to notice us and greeted us, I remained in the back while they spoke to him. Shevat asked if Stella has been doing well, but it seems like she is. Still convinced to be an animal, quickly proven by the scratch marks. While it is barely even a scratch, Yshvara helped the man by healing it away. It was quite nice to see his enthusiasm about it. He hasn't ever had it happen or seen before, even if it's just mild. He was quick to address a companion of his who has been complaining about back pains but there's only so much the healing can reach ...
It bothered me to hear that he doesn't take his position seriously as a guard. No matter if his colleague is letting him down. It's not the first and neither the last time that I meet incompetent guardsmen in Vallaki. Will Vallaki truly be alright? Do these men know nothing about the pride in their duty? Tragic ... I could only sigh at their interaction, when suddenly I felt Arvirin reach for my hand again. I felt my face grow warm from the surprise. Whyishedoingthissosudden.
Shevat told the guardsman that we intended to cure her and he let us pass. He asked permission for him to join us, just to watch over the process. And the man was also quick to explain why. He told us that his daughter has died during the attack and he has been taking care of Stella ever since, almost like she is his daughter. Her presence has helped him to deal with the pain of her loss. I told him not to interfere with the process and we're clear, he was quick to agree. The man would like to see Stella happy.
Well, aren't those the true words of a father? ... Heh.
He confessed that the day has been great for him, but we couldn't agree on our side. When Shevat confessed that, the man was quick to reach for his bag. Begging us not to tell his captain. I felt myself frowning at the bottle he held in his hand. Homebrewed liquor? It isn't comfort, he says, but it helps. While glaring at it, I saw Shevat's hand move toward it. Since when?
"Hard times never last, only hard people." The guardsman smiled. It was almost like he knew that something terrible had happened to us. While the gesture is kind, I cannot agree with his actions, even the slightest. If only those words were true, then Tibirin would be among us. The man moved his shoulders a little. "Sometimes, you gotta give yourself some slack. But you can make an old man very happy ... And maybe a young girl, too." Yes, hopefully those spirits speak the truth about this cure. Then again, it cured us from that state, too.
We were led to the bedroom where we are bound to find Stella. He unlocked her bedroom door for us and warned us about her aggressive tendencies before peeking inside. She seemed to be on the bed, curled up like a cat-like being. She was quick to wake up and look over to the man in front of us, already preparing herself with a defensive stance.
The guardsman stepped away to make room for Shevat to pass. Before he did, I asked if I should go in first to hold her, but Shevat preferred to do it on his own and to greet her first. Meters away from the bed, he sits down on the floor before the bed. The girl got curious and got down from the bed to sit right next to Shevat to observe him from close by. I have never seen a human act genuinely like a cat. She actually believes it, that much is clear from her body language.
Shevat looked the girl in the eyes and greeted her calmly. He made eye contact with Yshvara before making a motion at her to enter the room. The girl is cautious around the new presence that entered the room but holds her position. It wasn't all according to plan, Stella didn't seem to like her close. Shevat told the young woman that Yshvara will do no harm, that she has met her before. Like she understood the words, the girl calmed down. Shevat explained to Stella how he made something really tasty for her, promising it to be very sweet. (Was more like salty to me though, not going to deny that it was tasty)
"Would you like to try it?" he asked her. Inside the room there was a deep plate positioned. It's not the cleanest plate ... Yshvara took out the bottle with the liquid inside and revealed it to the curious girl, taking off the lid for her to smell it. The look on her face revealed mild excitement. Shevat explained what it would do, simplified as if he were to talk to a real animal. Stella appears to understand when she moved over to the plate, expecting him to pour the liquid inside. Yshvara poured it inside and immediately she started to drink from it, drinking everything in almost a single go. Immediately afterwards, she fell to the side into a deep sleep. The ones inside are relieved.
They are planning to leave her behind to rest up, which plans I will not interfere with. There was a little bit of a disagreement about letting her rest on the floor, which I failed to understand. She could potentially catch a cold if she isn't used to it and especially without a blanket. Both the guard and Yshvara carry her onto the bed. That's taken care of ... That man will inform us if anything were to happen, of that I am sure, now that he no longer holds onto that bottle.
Our next destination is the burgomeister's mansion for the report.
Day: 10, Time of day: Afternoon
Location: Vallaki, Burgomeister mansion
Side Note: Ireena is kidnapped by Strahd
We met with another guard, again, he disappointed me to a point where I'd want to model his facial features with my first but I managed to refrain myself for everyone's sake. He recognized at least most of our faces, considering us heroes and if we are willing to assist him to move some crates, mentioning the backs in his pains. This may just be the guy that the other man referred to. Another lazy reject of a guardsman. Yshvara wasted her healing energies on the man but he continued to pretend that he is in severe pain, even getting worse after she casted it on him. I do believe a punch in his face would work better.
When we had time, he again asked if we could assist him. Pyre walked past him, ignoring his request. He called us cold heroes, but I never signed up to become a "hero". I am merely doing my duty. He should be, too, rather than to humiliate himself in front of us.
I was quick to follow Pyre who already moved inside, along with the others. The door was in a poor condition all of a sudden and the office was covered with paperwork, almost like a sign of an assault. And the closer we came, my suspicions have been confirmed. I saw Pyre rush over, past the desk where they found Muriël on the ground. Immediately she went down to the ground to hold her up and see how she was doing. What has happened here?! ... Why didn't that guard interfere?!
Muriël is in a terrible state, bleeding from her wounds. She is still breathing and seems to be unconscious. Shevat brought forth his spirit of healing, taking the appearance of a tiger. I smiled at it. He would have, as well ... Immediately, Muriël gasped for oxygen with her eyes wide open and she jumped up, ready for a fight when she realized that we are not the enemy. "He has got her! ..."
... You're jesting me ...
