%% parent:: [[62.02.02 Session Overview]] %% # Session 11: Have fun roamin’ the castle! prev:: [[S10_2021-09-19]] next:: [[S12_2021-10-03]] --- date-session:: 2021-09-26 campaign-date:: Day 7 & 8 pc:: [[Arvid]], [[Arya Emberlight]], [[Dorian de Lamonia]], [[Rychell Qinrel]] npc-active:: [[Strahd von Zarovich]], [[Sasha Ivliskova]], [[Escher]], [[Morninglord]], [[Ludmilla Vilisevic]], [[Volenta Popofsky]], [[Anastrasya Karelova]], [[Lief Lipsiege]], [[Rahadin]], [[Ismark Kolyanovich]], [[Kasimir Velikov]], [[Vargas Vallakovich]], [[Lyssa (Two and a Half Strahds)]], [[Izek Strazni]], [[Ireena Kolyana]] npc-discussed:: [[Vasili von Holz]], [[Fiona Wachter]], [[Rudolph van Richten]], [[Victor Vallakovich]], [[Klutz Tripalotsky]] location-active:: [[Castle Ravenloft]], [[Old Svalich Road]], [[Barovia (village)]], [[Blood of the Vine Tavern]], [[Vistani Encampment near Vallaki]], [[Vallaki]], [[Vallaki Burgomaster's Mansion]] location-discussed:: [[Wizards of Wines]], [[Krezk]], [[Abbey of Saint Markovia||abbey]], [[Tsolenka Pass]], [[St. Andral's Church]] monsters-or-creatures:: [[Blue-tipped Raven]] --- ## Session Summary ### TL;DR *To write.* ^tldr %% tldr:: %% ### Detailed Summary The party stand and follow [[Strahd von Zarovich|Strahd]] out of the dining room. Both [[Sasha Ivliskova|Sasha]] and [[Escher]] stay behind, and Arya nods to Sasha on her way out. He leads them through the main hall and through a long hallway filled with armor. At the end are a set of double doors that lead into a chapel. Strahd explains to them, regretfully, that it is in a state of disrepair as he does not spend as much time in it since becoming a vampire many centuries prior. The room is filled with dust and decaying pews, though Arya does spot the symbol of the [[Morninglord]]. She feels a very faint holy presence, but is unsure if it’s the Morninglord that she feels. A large balcony overhangs the entrance. He guides them through a small chamber at the back, flanked by two eight-foot statues of knights. Thinking of the small wooden knight from the Durst house, she comments to Strahd that he has a lot of knight imagery. As they walk up the stairs towards the balcony, he tells her that there are many statues at Ravenloft of knights who had previously been guests. He asks her if she wants to hear a story about one such knight, and mentions that it’s both tragic, and funny from a certain point of view. As they reach the balcony, he tells the group the story of a [[Klutz Tripalotsky|Sir Klutz]]. He was a brave and loyal soldier at the time Strahd conquered the land. According to Strahd, he was a skilled knight who met his demise by either fate or misfortune. He apparently tripped and impaled himself on his own sword. (Rychell absolutely did not find this story funny.) Strahd moves on, walking them down another corridor and into a great hall, with two staircases heading downstairs at the back of the room. On the far side of the room sits a large wooden throne, and three women dressed in elegant attire. The party instantly recognize the woman in white as [[Ludmilla Vilisevic|Ludmilla]]. Arya stares her down with a venomous glare, but Ludmilla does not meet her gaze. She, instead, looks down at the floor. The hall fills with music, played by unseen instruments. Strahd turns to Rychell with a slight bow and asks her to dance. Rychell response with a small curtsy, and takes his offered hand. As they begin to dance, Rychell sees the [[Volenta Popofsky|young woman in a gold dress and skull mask]] excited rushes forward and exclaim to Arya, “You look interesting! Let’s dance.” She pulls her into a dance without even waiting for a response. The [[Anastrasya Karelova|woman in red]] approach Arvid, and asks to dance. Meanwhile, Dorian leans against the far wall on the opposite side of the room from Ludmilla. Ludmilla makes no motion to approach Dorian, and Dorian does likewise. Strahd begins talking with Rychell as they dance. He asks her where they will go next after the castle, and she tells him she isn’t really sure. They will likely explore now that Barovia is their new home, but echoes what was said at dinner: the [[Wizards of Wines]] winery is on their list to explore. The Count recommends to her that they visit [[Krezk]], saying that she would like it. It’s a happier settlement than either [[Vallaki]] or the [[Barovia (village)|village of Barovia]]. He suggests they visit the [[Abbey of Saint Markovia|abbey]] as well, as it is a pleasant destination. At this point, Arya’s partner pulls her excitedly by the hand, and Arya accompanies her out of the room. Arya gives Dorian a look as they pass by him, standing at the door. At the same time, Escher and an [[Lief Lipsiege|older man]] enter the hall, and Escher begins chatting with Dorian. ^lieflipsiege As they continue to dance, Strahd warns her to avoid [[Tsolenka Pass]] on their travels, telling her that it is dangerous. Rychell responds that he is the second person to tell her about the dangers of Tsolenka Pass, and she asks what makes it so dangerous. Strahd tells her that it’s the weather mostly, with extreme cold and icy conditions. He cautions her about winter wolves, telling her they are more dangerous than regular wolves as they are almost as intelligent as a human. She asks if he has ever traveled there, and he says he has, but mainly to visit the mountain folk. Rychell asks what is on the other side of Tsolanka Pass, and he tells her there is nothing worth seeing. She keeps quiet, but her interest is obviously peaked by this. ^tsolankaPass Rychell tells him that she feels she misjudged his character, explaining that she was quite fearful of him before the dinner. But he has shown through his hospitality (and largely through believing his story about the dusk elves) that her fear was misplaced. He seems to smile at this, and tells her that he offers them his assistance if they need it at any point, and hopes that they can consider him to be an ally. ^strahdAlly She asks if he pays this much attention to all of the outsiders, and he says he tries to greet them when he can, but her party had caught his attention. She asks how, and Strahd tells her they have done a number of noteworthy things since their arrival. Rychell looks confused, not considering any action particularly noteworthy over the past week. Strahd tells her that simply surviving the Death House can be significant in Barovia, but restoring the bones of St. Andral had really caught his attention. ^strahdAttention Rychell asks if his brother, Rahadin, will be joining them again this evening. Strahd tells her no. Rahadin is more of a lone wolf type, and doesn’t enjoy events like this. Rychell says she understands, but had hoped to talk with him this evening. He nods, and tells her he can arrange that for her after their tour. She has one last question, and asks him about the noble families in [[Vallaki]]. She is specifically interested to know what he has heard about about the von Holz family, as she is curious about the young [[Vasili von Holz|Vasili]]. Strahd tells that he hasn’t met the man, but has heard good things about him. He believes there is more than meets the eye about people. Rychell says she knows Vasili is friends with another noble family, the [[Wachter|Wachters]]. Strahd says he considers them to be a good family and ally, and says they are very different than the current Baron. Rychell admits she has reservations about the Baron, having seen and been appalled at how he treated his guard at the Festival of the Blazing Sun for simply laughing. Strahd tells Rychell she should follow her conscience. He continues to make conversation with her while dancing until the music ends. ^vallakinobles Arya re-enters the ballroom, and Strahd snaps his fingers. The music begins to fade, and Strahd’s brides file off to stand with Ludmilla. The Count walks forward to address the full party, and invites them for a special tour: to see his study. He tells them that this is not on the usual tour he gives of his castle, but that for them, he would make an exception. Rychell smiles at this as he leads them out of the room, and up the stairs. They are in the same tower they were before, but on a different level than the parlour. They approach a delicately engraved steel door that almost seems to shine with a light of its own. Strahd waves his hand, and the doors open for them. Dorian comments that Strahd seems to have a gift with doors. They enter into a dusty dining room, looking dusty and untouched compared to the other parts of the castle. Strahd looks apologetic, and tells them that this is really quite unusual to have guests through here, and they were unprepared for them. Dorian tells him that it’s fine. Strahd walks through and opens the door to his study, revealing a well appointed room filled with thousands of old leather-bound books. Four couches surround a central low wooden table in the centre of the room. There is a large fireplace with a large roaring fire in it, and two armchairs positioned in front of the fire. Above the fireplace in a large portrait of a woman who looks just like [[Ireena Kolyana]]. As Rychell enters the room, a look of absolute joy spreads across her face at all of the books. She comments that you could spend a lifetime in a place like this, and Strahd responds that you could spend several. The books are clearly a point of pride for him, and she asks if he has read all of them. He says he has read mostly all, but is still looking to add more to his collection. He offers to lend a book to each of the party member, as Rychell begins silently walking around the room and scanning the spines, mostly lost in her own thoughts. Strahd starts talking about his background as a general in his father’s army, talking about all of the military strategy books he has that are no longer applicable since being trapped in Barovia. The talk about military strategy instantly peeks Dorian’s interest, and his whole demeanor shifts as he engages with Strahd in conversation about proving oneself through battle. Arya joins the conversation, asking if it was true that Strahd had fought a dragon. Strahd comments that she must have seen the skull, and nods. It was true that he fought and killed a dragon, but sounds modest when he says he did not do it alone. He tells them the story of the great battle, fought by both archers and wizards. It was a battle of perseverance and attrition against the silver dragon. Strahd tells them that Castle Ravenloft was constructed after the battle against the dragon. Strahd again offers to lend the party a book, and asks that they return them. Dorian asks for a book about military tactics, and Strahd hand selects one for him. Dorian looks almost giddy. Arvid asks for a book about the arcane and ritual spells, and Strahd walks to another shelf, and finds a book suitable for Arvid. He turns to the women, but Arya declines. Rychell says she is interested in learning more about the history and culture of Barovia, and Strahd nods. He crosses the room and selects an old leather-bound book, and hands it to her before escorting them back downstairs to the main hall. He thanks them all for coming as their night comes to a close, and tells them he has a parting gift for each of them. Strahd snaps his fingers and a tray comes floating down from the stairwell to the north. Strahd picks up a platinum dagger and hands it to Arvid. To Dorian and Arya, he gives them each a holy symbol of their respective beliefs (temples and the Morninglord). To Rychell, he gives her a ring. Strahd requests a favour before they depart. He tells them that an assassin stalks Barovia named [[Rudolph van Richten]]. He has a genocidal hatred for the [[Vistani]], and Strahd is concerned for their safety. Van Richten is apparently legendary for his violence, and asks that if they meet him, to apprehend him. Rychell doesn’t comment that she has a book from Vasili by Van Richten. Dorian asks how they could recognize Van Richten if they saw him, and Strahd says that Van Richten is methodical, and always has a plan. Rychell asks what they should do should they apprehend him, and Strahd says to bring him to Castle Ravenloft, and that he would gladly greet them if they did. ^questVanRichtenAssassin Strahd tells the party that their belongings have been moved downstairs to the foyer, and that a carriage will take them to whichever destination they so choose. He tells Rychell that he has not forgotten that she wants to speak with Rahadin, and that he will let him know she is waiting for him while they get ready. Rychell dons her travel cloak as Arya begins to help Dorian change back into his heavy armor. Arvid begins putting on his new studded leather armor as Rychell walks back over to the column at the base of the stairs to wait. A few minutes later, Rahadin walks down the stairs. “I understand you wish to speak with me.” He says, somewhat gruffly. She extends her hand and introduces herself in elvish, even though she is definitely intimidated by him. He shakes her hand, and she continues her conversation in Elvish, despite sensing that Arya is standing within earshot. Rychell tells him that she wants to know more about his history with the Dusk Elves and specifically to hear his side of the story. He tells her that the punishment was fitting of the crime, and she asks why he thinks so. He tells her that when Kasimir had his sister killed, he did so not knowing that Strahd had rejected her, but thinking because Strahd was interested in her. Her death didn’t sit well with him, and he tells her he purposely cut off Kasimir’s ears as revenge. Rychell doesn’t quite know how to respond, but asks him about his history with the Dusk Elves before serving the Count, and he’s a little cagey with his answers. She doesn’t press him, however. He does say that he knew Kasimir well enough from the time before Patrina’s death, and Rychell asks him if he can be trusted. Rahadin emphatically states that the dusk elves cannot be trusted, and that Kasimir is dangerous. Not only is he guilty of murdering a family member, but he is a powerful wizard. Rychell thanks him for his time, and he returns up the northern stairs. The party depart the castle, and climb into the carriage and debate where they’d prefer to head: Vallaki or Barovia. Rychell and Arya suggest getting back to Vallaki for Ireena’s safety, but Arvid suggests since they’re close to the village of Barovia that they should head back to add [[Ismark Kolyanovich|Ismark’s]] name to his book. The carriage makes its way to Barovia In the carriage, Arvid looks incredibly guilty and admits that he did something while at the castle. Arvid shows his spell book, and they see that Escher’s name is handwritten inside the book. Arvid tells Dorian he wanted to make a contact on the inside of Castle Ravenloft, but in exchange for information, Arvid promised to write salacious details about Dorian. Dorian at first seems exasperated, and then settles on not being thrilled with the idea, but seems resolved to it. As the carriage winds its way along the main road, they pass both a watchtower and a crumbling church that they had not previously seen given that they had taken the bypass to the Vistani camp with Madam Eva. Arya flinches as they drive past the gallows, but all they see is the end of a rope swaying in the breeze. They arrive at night into the [[Barovia (village)|village of Barovia]], and decide to head directly to the [[Barovia Burgomaster's Mansion|Burgomaster's Mansion]]. As they approach, they notice the lights are all off on the inside, but Rychell tries knocking on the door. She is met with silence, so she knocks again. No answer, and no sign of [[Ismark Kolyanovich]]. She turns and looks at the group, and Arya suggests they try the tavern on the way to the church. Dorian quips that no one seems to be occupying the church anyway. As they walk up the main road, they still hear [[Mad Mary|the crying]] from within the house, but continue on since it’s late. The party head into the [[Blood of the Vine Tavern]], and one of the Vistani women let’s out a holler. “Pay up!“ she says to the other women. “"They’re still alive.” It turns out the women have different bets about how long it would take each party of outsiders to die, and only one bet they would survive even a week. Dorian talks with them, suggesting it’s a bad idea to bet against them, and they all laugh. He tips them a gold coin as he leaves the bar, and the party make their way to the church. [[Barovia Church|The church]], they find, is unlocked, but empty as they had left it. Arya changes back into her more comfortable armor and out of her dress, and Rychell changes into her traveling skirt. They settle in to discuss the events of the evening, sharing both what they saw, and what they learned. Arya starts, telling the group she danced with one of Strahd’s brides named [[Volenta Popofsky]]. She sensed she was very young before she was turned, but she says her age now is 150 years old. Volenta was creepy, and fixated on blood. She asked Arya if she knew how much blood was in a mouse, and showed Arya how she liked to cut things up and let them bleed out. Arya said that she was obsessed with bones, and had a hobby of turning bones she collected into furniture. That was when she had shown Arya the large dragon skull. ^volentaintro Arvid said that the bride he danced with, [[Anastrasya Karelova]], was interested in his background. She told him that she’s more of a fighter with some magical abilities. Anastrasya also warned Arvid of a fort that is full of revenants, and that they should avoid going there. She also had recommended going to see the [[Abbey of Saint Markovia]] in [[Krezk]], which she said to be quite beautiful. Rychell speaks up at this, telling them that Strahd had also suggested they visit both Krezk, and the abbey as well. She tells them how Strahd had also warned her about the dangers of [[Tsolenka Pass]] and that there was nothing of value beyond there (to which she said she now wants to investigate). Rychell hesitates, and then tells them her position on Strahd has softened, and that he had offered them his assistance, and to think of him as an ally. She comments that she thinks she’s starting to sound like Arvid was, and Arvid asks her what she means by that. Rychell picks up on his defensive tone, and says that he was really quite upbeat about Strahd after his encounter with the man who cured his curse, and that she felt he had really been pushing a Strahd-positive position. Arvid asks the group what they know about dragons, and they say a little. He asks what they know about a dragon’s reputation based on their type: metallic or chromatic. Arvid explains how metallic dragons have the reputation for being good whereas chromatic dragons have a reputation for being bad, but that a person’s character is more than skin deep. That’s why he doesn’t judge a person at the start, but waits to get to know them in order to understand them. ^arvidSkinDeep Rychell doesn’t say anything to this, though she does subconsciously pull at her high collar. Arya asks Rychell if she’s a fan of Strahd now, and she shakes her head. She still has a high concern based on how possessive he seems about Ireena, but that she’s at least open now to listening. Arya sighs and said she had wanted to talk to Sasha more, and tells the group about the note. Rychell said she had noticed Sasha slip her the note while she was talking with Strahd and had done her best to keep him occupied. Arya relays the note, that not everyone at Castle Ravenloft is an enemy. Arvid and Rychell question if that means Strahd could possibly be an ally, and Arya does say she drew Strahd as an ally card during the [[Tarokka reading]], but it doesn’t jive with what Madam Eva had warned them about. Arvid tells them more about his conversation with Escher while getting wine. Escher had told him they were either brave or stupid to dine with monsters. He had added that the noble ones are the most dangerous. The group mull on this grimly, as Arvid says he saw a man hung from the ceiling like a slaughterhouse, being drained of blood. Dorian speaks up and said that he had talked with Escher while the others danced, and that Escher had fallen out of interest with the Count. Strahd’s eyes were wandering, and Escher no longer had his attention. Rychell asks Arya if she had heard her conversation with Rahadin at the end, sensing that she was close enough to hear and guessed that she knew [[Elvish]]. Arya plays coy, and all but admits she listened into the conversation. Neither Dorian or Arvid comment. Rychell tells the group in full about her conversation with Strahd’s right hand man, saying she had wanted to hear his side of the story since it seems like there is so much they don’t yet know or understand about Barovia. She tells them about having noticed Kasimir’s ears were mutilated, which matched Rahadin’s story of revenge, and tells the group that she plans to have a serious conversation with the elf next time they see Kasimir. Rychell says she’s worried that he hasn’t been entirely honest with them, especially when asking for their help. Arvid opens his book, and begins to send messages to [[Escher]]. “Are you alone? Can we talk?” The message in the book responds, “Yes.” Arvid continues, “Friend of foe?” No pause, and the response comes. “Friend, of course.” Arvid tells the group as he continues to write. “Who is against us at the castle?” A pause, and then the response. “Ludmilla.” But no one else to Escher’s knowledge. Arvid withdraws from the group, and begins to write visually descriptive details about Dorian as promised for information. The party settle into their watches for the night, but have an uneventful evening. In the morning as they pack up, Arya casts [[Detect Magic]] on the gifts from Strahd, but everything appears normal. Arvid sends a message to [[Kasimir Velikov|Kasimir]], asking if they had a safe night. There’s a long pause from the elf before the response is written in his book: “We might have a problem. Ireena is gone.” The party decide to hurry back to the elves’ camp, but try stopping by the [[Barovia Burgomaster's Mansion|Burgomaster's Mansion]] on their way out of town. Rychell walks up to the door and knocks, with the party staying a few steps behind her. She hears Ismark call out through the door to hold on for a few moments, and then opens it and is surprised to see the party. Rychell smiles warmly at Ismark, and says they had doubled back because Arvid had a way to communicate with them. Arvid tells him about his book, and asks him to sign, which he does. Arvid tests it, and it works fine. Ismark asks where Ireena is, and Rychell tells him that they had safely left her with a friend in Vallaki. Dorian says she’s probably fine unless she ran off, and Ismark mentions she is headstrong and is prone to wandering off. (Rychell says nothing, but can relate.) They go to excuse themselves, but Arvid stops and asks Ismark if he could purchase some items for him at local rates. Ismark agrees, and Arvid turns to Rychell and asks for 150 gp from their collective inventory. She hands Arvid the three gold rings and jewelry box from the Durst house. The party follows Ismark and Arvid to outside of [[Bildrath's Mercantile]], where Arvid places his order for 150 gp worth of ink and paper to Ismark. Ismark enters the store, and shortly returns with their items, at local cost. Arvid thanks him and they excuse themselves, and begin their seven hour return trip towards Vallaki, passing by the Vistani camp. Arya notices that the [[Blue-tipped Raven]] is following them once more. They bypass Vallaki entirely and head straight to the [[Vistani Encampment near Vallaki]] to Kasimir’s cabin. Rychell leads the party directly inside Kasimir’s tent, where he greets them with concern. They ask him to describe what happened, and Kasimir tells them that she was gone when he finished his trance. The elves standing guard outside of Kasimir’s cabin had been knocked unconscious, but confusingly reported seeing Ireena having approached them from the woods before being knocked out. Rychell looks nervously at the party, and says “[[Lyssa (Two and a Half Strahds)]]?” Dorian describes what they had seen Lyssa wearing when they had met her at the gates between Vallaki and Barovia, and Kasimir confirms that’s what the Ireena from the woods was seen wearing. Rychell asks Kasimir directly what has he done since he realized she was missing, and he tells them he has sent search parties out looking for her, though none have reported back yet. He knows that her tracks leads to the well-traveled paths, and were lost after [[Old Svalich Road]]. Rychell, wary of Kasimir since learning he may have killed his own sister, watches him closely, but all she can see is a look of concern on the old elf’s face partially hidden under his hood. They are interrupted by a dusk elf entering the cabin, and he gives Kasimir a report. Ireena had been spotted inside Vallaki heading into a mansion on the south side of town. The party begin to leave the cabin to head to Vallaki, but Rychell stops and addresses Kasimir on her way out. “When this is all over, we need to talk.” He looks surprised, and asks her what about. She tells him she has questions about his past, and how that affects the future and leaves the cabin to follow the party. ^weNeedToTalk After entering Vallaki, they pass by a man in red robes preaching on the side of the road about the coming of the sun. As they walk towards the Baron’s, Rychell scans the streets for Vasili, looking for as many allies as possible as they go to find Ireena. Meanwhile, Arvid senses from Owlaf a bright purple flash from the attic window of the burgomaster’s mansion. Rychell composes herself and walks up to the door. The same maid answers, and Rychell asks to speak with the Baron. The maid, recognizing her, invites her to wait in the same first floor small study the party had waited in previously. As they walk through the house, Arya listens for the sound of Ireena’s voice but hears nothing. The Baron enters with Izek and his two mastiffs, and he greets Rychell directly. Rychell asks the Baron if he has seen their friend, Ireena and he states that he has not. While she asks this, Arya is closely watching both the Baron and Izek, and while the Baron seems to be genuine, Izek appears to avert his gaze and look aside. Arya steps forward and more forcefully takes over the conversation from Rychell, with Arvid’s support. The Baron does not find this rude, but does mention that another woman looking like Ireena is staying as a guest at the manor. Rychell calmly interrupts and asks if it is Lyssa staying with him, and he says yes. She tells him they have previously met, and she would like to have a word with her, if she may. The Baron agrees and escorts the party upstairs to his library. Rychell pauses at the door of the library and knocks before entering. Lyssa is seated in a chair, and Rychell reintroduces herself and the party to Lyssa. They ask what she’s doing there, and she tells them it’s only a stopping point before she travels onward to Krezk. Dorian tells her they will be traveling and she can join them for safety, and she tells him not to worry, that she will be fine. Anxiously, Rychell asks Lyssa if she has seen Ireena. Lyssa calmly responds that she has, and that she’s in the room across the hall. Lyssa tells her not to worry about their friend, as she’s fine and is there to learn about her past. She asks who’s room it belongs to, and finds out it’s Izek’s room. While the party begin to debate with Izek, who stands firm about not letting them into his room, Rychell slips away to talk with the Baron and compliments him on his library, saying she is impressed with his collection and would like to discuss it with him at a later time. She then asks permission to be let into Izek’s room, as they’ve learned their friend is there, and Izek is barring access. Persuaded, the Baron tells Izek to allow them into his room. Arya enters the room first, and Ireena is seated on the bed. The first thing the party notices is that the room is filled with dolls that look identical to Ireena. Ireena assures them that she is okay, and Arya asks her what happened with the elves. Ireena tells them that she was approached by Lyssa, and invited to learn more about her own past, and she left with her. She came to the baron’s mansion, where she learned that she was not related by blood to Ismark, but instead was adopted. She had been born in Vallaki, but her family had been attacked by wolves. She had ran off and gotten lost, only to be picked up and adopted by the Barovian burgomaster’s family. Izek, however, had been injured and lost his arm. Rychell asks about Lyssa, and if they are related too. As far as Ireena knows, she is not related. Rychell then whispers to Arvid, asking him to let Ismark know that everything is fine. He does so. Arya tells Ireena they were worried about her, since they had already done so much to keep her safe from [[Strahd von Zarovich|the Devil]]. Ireena apologizes, but then tells the party that she would like to join them on their journey to Krezk. She has keeps having visions of a white sun in Krezk, and wants to learn more. Ireena tells them that Izek wouldn’t let Ireena leave after she had arrived. Dorian dryly quips to him that he’s a very protective brother. To this effect, Rychell offers to Izek to help keep Ireena safe with them, and he tells her they can stand guard, but that she will not be leaving the manor. At this, Rychell excuses herself again and as she approaches the Baron, the whole house gives a shake. Dorian asks what happened, and the Baron nonchalantly responds that it’s his son in the attic, [[Victor Vallakovich|Victor]]. Rychell informs the baron that Ireena will be staying the night, and asks if a guest room may be available for the party to stay with her. The baron agrees, again citing that the manor is the safest place from [[Strahd von Zarovich|the Devil]] in all of Barovia. Arvid and Dorian suggest they go meet with Victor, and the Baron shows them the way to the attic. [[S10_2021-09-19|← Previous session]] | [[S12_2021-10-03|Next session →]] %% ## Starting notes - Rychell is tipsy from nervously drinking wine - “Y’know, I didn’t think vampires were real before here. Then I thought they were real but scary. But you’re not scary, you’re actuallly really charming. I think you’re nice.” - Drunken Rychell may be a good time for it to come out that she’s expected to marry for power, but she’d rather marry for love. (She’s kinda the anti-Patrina?) - Rahadin - She will be looking for him at Castle Ravenloft - She would likely talk with Rahadin in elvish if they talk, and probably the first thing she’d say is “why?” - Why did he choose mass murder as a response to Kasimir killing Patrina? - Kasimir - Give one chance to come clean:Take the approach: you haven’t told me the full story, have you? - His ears. - Trust issues and/or doubt - A tinge of fear after being told he stoned his own sister to death - Rychell - After the dinner, assuming they don’t die… she should regain some of her more cheery self. She’s gone a little dark and/or fatalistic with the Kasimir story line. So… see where it goes! ## Notes - Castle Ravenloft - [[Sasha Ivliskova]] & [[Escher]] stay in dining room - Chapel - statues of knights in hallway - disrepair since becoming a vampire - symbols of the [[Morninglord]]; Arya feels very faint holy presence, unsure if ML - Through room with chamber with 8ft sculptures of knights - Rychell asks about the knights (thinking of her token) - Up to balcony - Strahd story: Sir Klutz. brave fighter, loyal soldier during Strahd’s conquering. Best knight. Demise by fate/misfortune. He tripped and impaled himself on his own sword. - Great hall, with throne. two stairs heading down. - Music fills the hall with unseen - Far side of hall with throne: [[Ludmilla Vilisevic]], - Arya looks at [[Ludmilla Vilisevic|Ludmilla]] with a “fuck you” stare; Ludmilla doesn’t meet her gaze - Strahd asks Rychell to dance, Rychell curtsies - [[Anastrasya Karelova]] approaches Arvid to dance (DM 1-on-1) - [[Volenta Popofsky]] approaches Arya “you look interesting, let’s dance” (DM 1-on-1). Arya shoots Dorian a concerned look at she leaves the room. - Arya after dancing, gets dragged away (like an excited child) by her dance partner to another room - Ludmilla does not approach Dorian; likewise - Escher and older man enter [[Lief Lipsiege]] room Transfer dancing notes from Goodnotes. - Study - delicate engraved steel door, shines with light of its own to large dining hall - Portrait that looks like Ireena - Thousands of books - Strahd says he was a general in his father’s army - this peeks Dorian’s interest (military strategy) - Arya says you fought a dragon (she saw the skull) - Strahd, yes - He tells the story » archers and wizards. Perseverance and attrition. Silver dragon. - Castle constructed after the battle - Books - Dorian asks for book on tactics - Arvid asks for books on the arcane and rituals - Rychell asks for a book on the history of Barovia - Gifts - floating tray - Arvid platinum dagger - Dorian holy symbol of temples (necklace) - Arya holy symbol of morning lord (necklace) - Rychell a ring - A request - Rudolph van Richten, an assassin - Genocidal hatred for Vistani, Strahd concerned for their safety - If meet him, apprehend him » bring him to Castle Ravenloft - Methods » always has a plan - Rahadin chat » re elves - Dusk elves can‘t be trusted. - Carriage ride - Arvid got Escher to sign his book; promised to write him about Dorian (Dorian doesn’t seem thrilled, but it’s not unexpected) - Pass a watchtower, and a crumbling church along [[Old Svalich Road]] on the way to [[Barovia (village)|Barovia]]; no one is on the gallows this time. - [[Barovia (village)]] - Rychell knocks on the door; nothing. Dark inside. - Woman still crying. - Into the [[Blood of the Vine Tavern]] - Vistani women had a bet that they would die; one bet they wouldn’t be yet - Dorian talks with them; tips them a gold coin - No sign of [[Ismark Kolyanovich|Ismark]] - [[Barovia Church]] - Post-dinner talk - Arya / [[Volenta Popofsky|Volenta]]. - 150 years old. Arya got the sense she was very young before she was turned. She was creepy. Asked if she knew how much blood was in a mouse. She likes to cut up things and let them bleed out; showed Arya. She’s obsessed with bones; turned bones into furniture. - There was also the dragon skull. She collected them by herself. - Arvid / [[Anastrasya Karelova]] - She was interested in his background. She’s more of a fighter with some magic ability - She said don’t go to a fort that is full of revenants. (They should go there) - Recommended to go to the abbey in [[Krezk]] - Strahd » Rychell tells story - Arvid tells story of metallic (good) and chromatic (bad) dragons - Don’t judge a person to start - Rychell stays quiet about talks about dragons - Arya » so you’re a fan now? “Well, I’m open to listening.” - Arya wanted to talk with Sasha more, re: not everyone is an enemy » does that mean Strahd? - Arvid » Escher said you’re either brave or stupid to dine with monsters. The noble ones are the most dangerous. - Arvid also saw a man being drained of blood. - Dorian - Escher has fallen out of interest with the Count - Ask about gifts » can’t detect magic yet - Rychell » talks about Kasimir & Rahadin; ears - Arvid asks “Are you alone, can we talk?” - E. “Yes.” - Arvid. “Friend or foe?” - E. “Friend of course” - A. Who are against us at the Castle? - E. Ludmilla. No one else to his knowledge. - Watches - 1 - Arya - 2 - Arvid - 3 - Dorian & Rychell - 4 - Rychell - Uneventful night! - Arya ritual casts detect magic. Nothing is magic. - Arvid sends to Kasimir “Is everything okay?” - K: “We might have a problem. Ireena is gone.” - A: “How?” - K: “She was gone after my trance.” - Rychell knocks on [[Ismark Kolyanovich|Ismark’s]] door. - Says Ireena is safe in Vallaki. - Arvid gets him to sign the book - Dorian says she’s probably fine unless she ran off. - Arvid asks if he could get Ismark to buy 150 gp worth of ink and paper. - Rychell gives him three gold rings and the jewelry box, worth 150 gp - Operation: Get back to Vallaki (7 hour journey) - Pass Vistani camp - Arya checks for [[Blue-tipped Raven]]. Yes it’s there. - Go straight to camp » [[Kasimir Velikov|Kasimir]] - Guards unconscious » said Ireena came from the woods (Lyssa!) - Rychell » what have you done since? Kas has sent search parties - Dorian describes what Lyssa was wearing. Yes, that’s her. - Tracks lead to the well traveled path. - Rychell insight Kasimir. He looks concerned, but hard to tell more. - Dusk elf » report. - They’ve been spotted inside of Vallaki; into a mansion, on south side of town. - Rychell to Kasimir. “We need to talk after this is done.” - “What about?” - “About your past, and how that affects the future.” - In [[Vallaki]] - A man preaching about the coming of the sun, wearing a red robe - Rychell scans the street for Vasili, looking for allies - Owlaf perception: Flash of purple from the attic. - Straight to the Baron’s. - Arya perception: listen for Ireena. No voices. - Rychell talk to Baron - Arya insight check. Baron nothing; Izek shifty - Arya and Arvid conversation, more forceful - Lyssa staying here. Rychell asks to talk. - Baron takes her to the library - Lyssa there - Dorian says to travel to Krezk - don’t worry she’s fine. - in the other room, to learn about her past. - Izek’s room, won’t let them in. - Rychell asks Baron to help let them in. Compliments him on his library. - Baron » Izek. Let them in. - The room is filled with dolls that look like Ireena. - Arya » Ireena - It was Lyssa who attacked from the woods. - Lyssa invited her to learn about her past. - Found out not related by blood to [[Ismark Kolyanovich|Ismark]]. Adopted. Born in Vallaki. Incident with wolves; got lost in wolves. Cost Izek his human arm. - Lyssa not related that she knows of. - Arvid pulls out book; Ismark. Everything is fine. - Arya tells her they were worried since trying to keep her safe from Devil. - Ireena has visions of a white sun in Krezk; wants to come with them - Izek wouldn’t let Ireena leave after she arrived. - Dorian: “You are a very protective brother.” - Rychell offers to help Izek keep Ireena safe. He says they can stand guard. - Rychell goes to talk with Baron » manor shakes. - Dorian » what? Barron » Victor. - R » Baron, Ireena staying the night. Is guest rooms available - Go to attic %%