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Into the mists.

Posted by The MistsFor group 0
The Mists
GM, 8 posts
Thu 12 Mar 2020
at 00:26
  • msg #1

Into the mists

Ok, let’s get a history or arcana check from both Sen and Ritin.
SIRE
player, 9 posts
Thu 12 Mar 2020
at 06:03
  • msg #2

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 1):

Most prestigious open to a campaign I have seen. Two crits:


23:02, Today: SIRE rolled 19 using 1d20-1.  Sen Arcana Roll (-1).
23:01, Today: SIRE rolled 20 using 1d20.  Ritin History Roll (+0).
The Mists
GM, 10 posts
Fri 13 Mar 2020
at 22:34
  • msg #3

Into the mists

What the balls?!

Ok, I'm going to take a little license with your characters for a minute.

Ritin: So, what do you know of Ravenloft? Do you know where it is?

Sen: Ravenloft is the name of the castle where the Vampire King rules. The land he rules is called Barovia.

Ritin: So, where is Barovia?

Sen: As far as I know, only in the past. Some say it's in a hidden valley. Some that it's on another plane. Adventurers go looking for it sometimes, never to be heard from again. Maybe because they don't want to be known as the ones who couldn't find it. Or they're dead.

Ritin: What do you think?

Sen: I think if we find it, we're in trouble. Strahd von Sarovich was a dangerous and cruel leader of armies before he was a vampire. It's foolish enough to go looking to kill a King that rules with an iron grip. Insane to hunt one that commands the minions of hell.

Ritin: So, where do we go?

Sen: East. All rumors spring from the Vistani. They say they move freely within Strahd's realm.

Ritin: *nods*

With Ritin's check, he knows that Strahd's cursed to be a vampire which can happen from truly great acts of evil and cruelty, like a paladin becoming a death knight. He knows the basic things about vamps I'll send you a screen shot of what he knows. He also knows that with very powerful being, they can sometimes influence the area around them. So, not only does Strahd rule from Ravenloft, he very well may control the lands round about, or at least the lands are said to reflect their master.
SIRE
player, 12 posts
Fri 13 Mar 2020
at 22:55
  • msg #4

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 3):

Amending to be "in voice" so you (and I) can get a sense of them:

quote:
Ritin: So, what do you know of Ravenloft? Do you know where it is?

Sen: Ravenloft is a castle in Barovia.

Ritin: Oh. Who lives in a castle?

Sen: A vampire king.

Ritin: Really?

Sen: *silence*

Ritin: Well, how do we get there?

Sen: We go to Barovia.

Ritin: ...How do we get to Barovia?

Sen: I don't know.

Ritin: Well, what have you heard?

Sen: *sighs*...Barovia might only have existed, rather than being a place that exists. It might be on another plane. It might be in a valley.

Ritin: Well, who can tell us?

Sen: Nobody comes back, and only adventurers go looking.

Ritin: *pauses* Well, you must think they died.

Sen: I do

Ritin: What makes you think that?

Sen: In life, Strahd von Sarovich was dangerous and cruel. It's foolish enough to go looking to kill a King that rules with an iron grip. It's insane to hunt one that commands the minions of hell.

Ritin: Well, heroes don't sit around farming.

Sen: And farmers don't get turned into food for a demon. Except in Barovia.

Ritin: So why are you coming?

Sen: Last rites.

Ritin: *Waits for more explanation, but none is forthcoming.* So, where do we go?

Sen: East. All rumors spring from the Vistani.

Ritin: *nods* East it is.


We go. All info is shared within the party.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:57, Fri 13 Mar 2020.
The Mists
GM, 11 posts
Sat 14 Mar 2020
at 02:01
  • msg #5

Into the mists

Thanks. I was actually going to have more back and forth and shorter answers, but... lazy.

Ok, jump cut to small village tucked deep in the woods. Started as a trading outpost among hunters and pelters. Through a heavy, cold rain, you see an inn lamely lighting the night. Outside the building you see a large cart that appears to be an oversized barrel tipped on its side with a door on its side. It is painted in bright clashing colors. There are no horses attached. Probably already stabled at the inn.

There is a loud, upbeat duet coming from the inn's tavern. (Rivolta Silenziosa by Humanwine, go listen to it).

The inn is called Hell's Stoop.

Edited grammar and spelling. There is a duet, not a duel.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:09, Sat 14 Mar 2020.
SIRE
player, 13 posts
Sat 14 Mar 2020
at 15:21
  • msg #6

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 5):

OOC: That song is perfect

Ritin: Looks fun! Let's go.

Edwin: Nervously smiles

Imondo: Moves closer to Edwin while still somehow hiding behind him

Sen: The devil hides in plain sight. Keep your wits about you.

Edwin: Didn't you say you could sense evil, Ritin? Do you think there are any?

Ritin: I can't tell from here. We will have to go in or find a window or something.

Imondo: You will check?

Ritin: Yes, and then we can have some fun.

OOC: Only doing this until all characters are established personalities in your mind. I'm already getting a feel for them.

Ritin leads the way to the inn and, if there is no incident, looks goes to a window and uses divine sense (if possible) or does so at the first inconspicuous opportunity inside.
The Mists
GM, 12 posts
Sat 14 Mar 2020
at 20:19
  • msg #7

Into the mists

Your nothing pings off you divine sense.

You enter and after a few moments the song will wind up.

You see 5 people that must be the vistani. They are dressed in multi colored clothing, parts of which cling tight to the body and some that hang loose such as sashes. They are the ones producing the music. 4 men and 1 woman.

The rest of the people in the pub are rough looking men, frontier men. There are also serving wenches and a bartender, who is just as rough looking as the other men, though slightly less muscular and slightly more well fed.
SIRE
player, 14 posts
Sat 14 Mar 2020
at 21:48
  • msg #8

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 7):

Ritin: Looks clear enough to me. Let's go in.

He confidently leads the way and, taking only a moment to pause to make sure the others are following him at the door before opening it and looking for a table near the band.
The Mists
GM, 13 posts
Tue 17 Mar 2020
at 02:17
  • msg #9

Into the mists

Ok, the band ends and their tune and are served dinner and more drink. You gather it is venison and steamed and seasoned tubers.

A serving girl comes to your table with four pints and asks if ya'll would like food and drink, and if you'll be taking a room, or rooms, for the night.

(Sorry for no voice, figured quick post was better than none).
SIRE
player, 15 posts
Tue 17 Mar 2020
at 03:28
  • msg #10

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 9):

That is more than adequate for less than significant interactions. If it is how a book would gloss over something, do it.

Ritin thinks for  a moment and says: Yes, I think we will have rooms and, if someone else has not beaten us to it, I would like to purchase a round of drinks or dinner for the band, with my compliments on their playing and my apologies for not catching more of their set, which I found enchanting as a lover of the arts.

OOC: I guess I should figure out gold, now. Will do tomorrow and subtract this. It will be hilarious if he has to borrow the money.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:16, Tue 17 Mar 2020.
The Mists
GM, 14 posts
Wed 18 Mar 2020
at 19:58
  • msg #11

Into the mists

I am thinking that for meals and rooms for the party, total of 2gp.

To buy the meal/drink for the vistani, 1.25gp
SIRE
player, 16 posts
Wed 18 Mar 2020
at 21:27
  • msg #12

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 11):

Let's assume it's done?
The Mists
GM, 15 posts
Wed 18 Mar 2020
at 21:36
  • msg #13

Into the mists

It will be important to track gold.

It is done. They all cheer you, then there is a brief conversation in a foreign tongue. They then set into enjoying their meal, giving you an occasional wink and nod.
SIRE
player, 17 posts
Wed 18 Mar 2020
at 22:31
  • msg #14

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 13):

When the time seems appropriate, Ritin stands and approaches the band, motioning to Sen to get up as well. With some encouragement from Edwin, Imondo stands up and they both approach as well, but keep some more distance.

Ritin: Do you mind a little company? I have never heard music like that before. It was very enchanting, and I would love to learn more about your troupe if you don't mind company.
The Mists
GM, 16 posts
Wed 18 Mar 2020
at 23:01
  • msg #15

Into the mists

They laugh at the word 'troupe'. The lone female responds, "Oh that? That was only a bit of fun. We have learned that you can always find joy if you bring it with you."

The other vocalize their agreement and one of the men says, "Sometimes true of the music, but always true of you, my dear." The others quietly cheer.

The man continues, "We do receive coin sometimes for our music, but mostly we are travelers. At this time, though we are traders, though our business will conclude soon. Then we are off to one of our encampments." Though the conversation is casual enough, the other vistani (and perhaps the rest of the bar?) seem to be paying close attention.
SIRE
player, 18 posts
Wed 18 Mar 2020
at 23:47
  • msg #16

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 15):

Sen says: We're looking for infor-

Ritin interrupts: Let's not ruin a joyous occasion with such talk. I propose a toast to home, without which we could not travel, and a toast to abroad without which we would have no home.

Ritin raises a glass and gives Sen a look to communicate that Ritin want to run the conversation. Sen grimaces, then takes a long time to take a small drink for the toast.

OOC: Trying to put in some of the stuff that would happen if there were multiple players, too, even when it isn't according to plan.
The Mists
GM, 18 posts
Thu 19 Mar 2020
at 18:01
  • msg #17

Into the mists

They raise their cups in a sort of. "well, we might disagree a little on the details of that statement, but we will cheer the sentiment."

"So, are you traveling, or on your way home, then? Surely, you on on your way to some adventure."
SIRE
player, 21 posts
Thu 19 Mar 2020
at 20:05
  • msg #18

Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 17):

Ritin: You have us pegged, he says, holding he hands to the side in a you-got-me fashion. Home is at our backs, and only recently. We don't really know where we're going, though. Just chasing rumors for now--I would offer to trade news, but we mostly only have a few names of places that sound intriguingly dangerous, or dangerously intriguing. They are likely old news to people who travel as far abroad as yourselves.

Sen: *obviously frustrated with the pace of the conversation and biting his tongue*

Edwin: *taking in the garb of the Vastani, their mannerisms, etc.*

Imondo: *watching the people around the inn to see what they are doing*
The Mists
GM, 20 posts
Thu 19 Mar 2020
at 20:57
  • msg #19

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
In reply to The Mists (msg # 17):

Ritin: You have us pegged, he says, holding he hands to the side in a you-got-me fashion. Home is at our backs, and only recently. We don't really know where we're going, though. Just chasing rumors for now--I would offer to trade news, but we mostly only have a few names of places that sound intriguingly dangerous, or dangerously intriguing. They are likely old news to people who travel as far abroad as yourselves.

"In truth, we have not traveled abroad in some time. We have come here awaiting a trader with some basic supplies. Then we will head back to our camp where a broken shovel a lack of good rope can be a nuisance."

SIRE:
Sen: *obviously frustrated with the pace of the conversation and biting his tongue*

The speaker winks at Sen.

SIRE:
Edwin: *taking in the garb of the Vastani, their mannerisms, etc.*

As mentioned before they are paying attention while appearing not to be. The woman looks a little sad.

SIRE:
Imondo: *watching the people around the inn to see what they are doing*

The rest of the people seem to be going about the night, no longer regarding your party one way or the other. Maybe even avoiding eye contact?
SIRE
player, 22 posts
Thu 19 Mar 2020
at 21:07
  • msg #20

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 19):

Ritin: *A little at a loss that didn't work, but with a smile* - Well, we do not wish to pry, but we would love to hear of your past travels, or your home--wherever such lovely music was learned or first composed is a place I should dearly like to visit. Such joyous music must come from a lovely place, or a place in need of joy, either of which sound right up our alley.

Sen: *stands* Excuse me... Sen makes for the bar.

Edwin: *leans forward in the hopes they will tell a good story*

Imondo: *tries to be invisible*
The Mists
GM, 21 posts
Thu 19 Mar 2020
at 21:56
  • msg #21

Re: Into the mists

The man says, "Then perhaps you would like to join us, no? Our camp is truly not far, but difficult to find. We will be your guides, no?"

The woman addresses the man, "Why are you doing this? It is not why we're here. They seem so nice."

He responds, "She is worried because she fears for your safety. But I assure you, though our lands are dangerous, you will not come to harm if you travel with us."

She looks away exasperated.

At the bar the bartender says, "What'll it be?" after glancing at you for barely a moment.
SIRE
player, 24 posts
Thu 19 Mar 2020
at 22:28
  • msg #22

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 21):

Ritin: We would love to see your camp! Will there be more music?

Edwin and Imondo: Both looking obviously concerned about the woman's remark. Edwin starts to ask, but stops himself.

----

Sen: Water. -- He then sits down at the bar and looks at the rest of the patrons one by one to see if anyone is worth taking note of.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:53, Thu 19 Mar 2020.
The Mists
GM, 23 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 05:50
  • msg #23

Re: Into the mists

“Haha. Quite taken with the song I see. I think we have one to see along the way, but the land we go to have a way of making music sound hollow.”
SIRE
player, 25 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 15:39
  • msg #24

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 23):

Ritin: Say more? Or perhaps it is best discussed on the way?
The Mists
GM, 24 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 15:58
  • msg #25

Re: Into the mists

The woman interjects. "I will not let you come unless you receive fortune reading." She brandishes a deck of tarot cards, "Then you decide if you will come."

(She is addressing the party, it is one reading for all of you)
SIRE
player, 26 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 16:04
  • msg #26

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 25):

Ritin motions to Sen, who walks over.

Ritin: These lovely folks have said we can travel with them for a time AND we will get a fortune telling.

Sen: There are only two fates, Ritin. Death and worse.

Edwin: *tentatively* Is it ok if I write this down?

Imondo: *silent, but now intensely interested in the woman and her cards*
The Mists
GM, 25 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 18:35
  • msg #27

Re: Into the mists

"Do what you will."

One of the other vistani starts softly plucking a guitar and the ambient noise of the inn lowers to match the music, which seems discordant at first, but always resolves as some foreign sounding scale.

The lighting is poor in the tavern, but not so much that you can't make out the details of the cards. She splits the cards into two decks, one much larger than the other and shuffles both decks.

"This is the low deck of fortunes, but tells you where to find your greatest strengths."

"This card tells of history. Knowledge of the ancient will help you better understand your enemy." She flips over the 1st card which reads Transmuter,  "Go to a place of dizzying heights, where the stone itself is alive!"

"This card tells of a powerful force for good and protection, a holy symbol of great hope." She flips over the 2nd card which reads Avenger, "The treasure lies in a dragon's house, in hands once clean and now corrupted."

"This is a card of power and strength. It tells of weapon of vengeance; a sword of sunlight." She flips over the 3rd card which reads Necromancer, "A woman hangs above a roaring fire. Find her, and you will find the treasure."

"This is the high deck, with fortunes of weal and woe."

"This card sheds light on one who will help you greatly in the battle against darkness." She flips over the 4th card which reads Artifact, "Look for an entertaining man with a monkey. This man is more than he seems."

"Your enemy is a creature of darkness, whose powers are beyond mortality. This card will lead you to him!" She flips over the 5th card which reads Seer, "He waits in a place of wisdom, warmth, and despair. Great secrets are there."

See email for graphic. I would not hate it if it ended up hosted somewhere and linked here.
SIRE
player, 28 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 19:09
  • msg #28

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 27):



Everyone talking over each other, says the following:

Edwin: We have an enemy? How?

Ritin: Dragons?! Swords of sunlight?! Most prestigous! It's a metaphor, though right?

Sen: *to himself, quietly* Finally... *and then to Ritin* You are going to wish.

Imondo: Looks at the Necromancer card and thinks about a sword made of sunlight Sunlight is no harm, and none of us use swords

Ritin: Well I do. Well, I did. Anyway, I have.

Sen: Shut up everyone. and then to the woman Do you know anything beyond what you have said about what the cards have shown?
This message was last edited by the player at 19:19, Fri 20 Mar 2020.
The Mists
GM, 26 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 19:43
  • msg #29

Re: Into the mists

"I can say this. The cards reveal to me that you know something of what you are getting into. It was not mere chance that brought you to us. Or perhaps us to you.

"I cannot speak of your enemy. But my man speaks truth, you will come to no harm as you travel with us. The cards tell me your errand is not hopeless, but hope can die."
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:00, Fri 20 Mar 2020.
SIRE
player, 29 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 19:54
  • msg #30

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 29):

Ritin: As a matter of fact, we kn-

Sen: As a matter of fact, we should seek some privacy.

OOC: I stopped myself from saying what Sen would say next in private because I am not sure if you want to skip things like that or not. Fine either way.
The Mists
GM, 27 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 20:26
  • msg #31

Re: Into the mists

How do you become private? What do you say?

I figure there should be a chance for the NPC's to hear if it is a situation I would let a player make a perception check.

I realize that to a degree it is for flavor as you are in control of all characters, so in order to not penalize roleplaying, I am just going to lay down that under normal circumstances you can whisper 1:1 with no chance of detection unless someone has enhances senses of some sort, in which case it would be a high DC of 20 or so.

Private group conversations would probably have a DC of 20, and enhanced senses would likely provide advantage.
SIRE
player, 30 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 20:36
  • msg #32

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 31):

Sen rips a page from Edwin's notebook, making sure to keep the note from prying eyes, as he writes a single word:

Strahd

He would then walk the note to the fire and watch it burn completely before walking back
The Mists
GM, 28 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 21:44
  • msg #33

Re: Into the mists

The vistani give you your space, though the man who spoke to you seems a little anxious to whomever in your group has the best passive insight.
The Mists
GM, 29 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 21:47
  • msg #34

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Imondo: Looks at the Necromancer card and thinks about a sword made of sunlight Sunlight is no harm, and none of us use swords

OOC: Point of fact, monks are proficient in short swords. I say this since he is the one saying this, so he would have trained in the use of a short sword as a monk weapon.
SIRE
player, 31 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 21:50
  • msg #35

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 34):


Re: swords - Excellent point, but still none of them use swords.

Re: Privacy, I meant that we and the Vistani should get some privacy, as Sen is ready to tell them what we're really after (as it Ritin, Sen just thinks we should do it away from prying eyes and ears)
The Mists
GM, 30 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 21:59
  • msg #36

Re: Into the mists

Quietly replies, "The folks here are no strangers to our tales, living right next door to hell, as they do. But even so, we can wait the locals out and be private in our corner. I am not sure there is much more we can tell you though."
SIRE
player, 33 posts
Fri 20 Mar 2020
at 22:19
  • msg #37

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 36):

Sen: We are in no hurry, which draws a look from Ritin.

OOC: We can fast forward. The only thing I want to do is to make sure that Sen is keeping an eye on the people who are in the room to see if anyone is lingering, trying to listen, etc.
The Mists
GM, 32 posts
Mon 23 Mar 2020
at 23:01
  • msg #38

Re: Into the mists

The speaker introduces himself as Stanimir. The vistani continue to drink into the night as the rest of the patron leave or go to their rooms. Your party and the vistani migrate to a large fireplace and Stanimir gives the innkeeper a coin and asks for him to stoke the fire.

Stanimir looks into the fire and begins to gently wave his hands in front of him. The flames turn from orange to green. As they dance and sway, a dark shape appears in the fire's core.

"We come from an ancient land whose name is long forgotten-a land of kings. Our enemies forced us from our homes, and now we wander the lost roads."

The dark shape in the fire takes the form of a man be­ing knocked from his horse, a spear piercing his side. Stanimir continues. "One night, a wounded soldier
staggered into our camp and collapsed. We nursed his terrible injury and quenched his thirst with wine. He survived. When we asked him who he was, he wouldn't say. All he wanted was to return home, but we were deep in the land of his enemies. We took him as one of our own and followed him back toward his homeland. His enemies hunted him. They said he was a prince, yet we didn't give him up, even when their assassins fell upon us like wolves."

Deep in the fire, you see the dark figure standing with sword drawn, fighting off a host of shadowy shapes. "This man of royal blood fought to protect us, as we
protected him. We bore him safely to his home, and he thanked us. He said, 'I owe you my life. Stay as long as you wish, leave when you choose, and know that you will always be safe here."'

The figure in the dancing fire vanquishes its final foe, then disperses in a cloud of smoke and embers.

Stanimir's face becomes a somber mask. "A curse has befallen our noble prince, turning him into a tyrant. We alone have the power to leave his domain. We long for heroes to end our dread lord's curse and put his troubled soul to rest. We have not yet found such heroes, but perhaps..."

He leaves the words hanging.
SIRE
player, 34 posts
Mon 23 Mar 2020
at 23:16
  • msg #39

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 38):

Ritin and Edwin are on the edge of their seats. Imondo keeps looking over his shoulder to peer into the shadows. Sen looks much the same and speaks first:

Sen: Tell them, so they know. That one [Ritin] would sign up for anything you said was heroic. That one [Edwin] would only realize life is not like the stories when if a book told him so. And that one [Imondo] is sensible enough, but would follow Edwin into the fire that Ritin walked into without looking.

Ritin: Hey!
Edwin: *hangs head in shame*
Imondo: *puts hand on Edwin's shoulder*

Sen: *continues* The man is the vampire king. His land is Barovia. We will not be the first to try, and fools rush in where angels fear to tread. Tell them the dangers so they can make an informed decision. These boys will fail to die if you don't put the fear into them that he warrants.
The Mists
GM, 33 posts
Tue 24 Mar 2020
at 21:51
  • msg #40

Re: Into the mists

Stanimir responds, "I will not speak ill of our master. You are adventurers, no? Death stalks you like a cat. Heed the words of the fortune. Without aid you will surely fail. There are forces greater than the our dread lord in Barovia. He was made, he can be unmade."

He stretches and yawns.

"But I will speak no more of this. We have business tomorrow, then we are off down the old Svalich road. You may accompany us or not. If you go on your own, you can enter the valley at the fork in the path at the dried riverbed. The fog is thick, but you can make your way.

"It is left to you to decide. We did not come here looking for you, but I think you came looking for us, no?"

With that, the vistani begin packing it in for the night. The woman winks at Ritin her way to her room. It seems that the others may be sleeping in the barrel wagon.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:52, Tue 24 Mar 2020.
SIRE
player, 35 posts
Tue 24 Mar 2020
at 22:02
  • msg #41

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 40):

Sen: We will think on it, OOC: That's a lie. His mind is already made up to go.

Ritin: We did come looking for you, yes, but we did not expect such wonderful company and are glad to have met you.

Ritin waits until the men and woman have gone, then tells the others:

Ritin: I think the woman may have more to say to me. She seemed to care for our well-being earlier as well. I think I'll go to her room and see if she is willing to talk.

Sen: More like see if we overpaid for beds. Children...

Ritin: *blushes*

Sen: Go ahead, then. This may be the last joy you know, but take care. They called him their master. The best I can do for you is this... *Sen casts Bless on Ritin (and the others, since he can)* I will wait up for you.

Ritin goes and knocks quietly. Everyone else retires. Sen and Imondo stay up, but Edwin falls asleep reading.
The Mists
GM, 34 posts
Tue 24 Mar 2020
at 22:05
  • msg #42

Re: Into the mists

The woman reiterates that their purpose was to trade. Because they are free to leave and enter Borovia as they wish, they sometimes get basic supplies from outside the valley.

She confides there has been times Strahd has lured people into Borovia and that Stanimir has been complicit in doing so, but that she does not believe that is the case now. Your meeting may be fate, or bad luck.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:19, Wed 25 Mar 2020.
SIRE
player, 36 posts
Tue 24 Mar 2020
at 23:45
  • msg #43

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 42):

Well, for what it is worth, Sen would go looking for Ritin after a while and I don't know that Ritin would have done the deed. He's a paladin, after all, and I had planned on feeling the situation out before I felt it up.
The Mists
GM, 35 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 00:09
  • msg #44

Re: Into the mists

Then that’s what happens. Whatever.
SIRE
player, 37 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 00:52
  • msg #45

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 44):

Well, to give you a sense of what I'm going for, here: Ritin is good. Like, actually Good. He is under the impression (in his adventuring infancy) that leaders--particularly heroic leaders--need to have a little bit of charm, and swagger, but when push comes to shove he just doesn't have it in him to do the wrong thing.

This is not unlike how [name redacted for internet purposes] and [her friend] propositioned me with a 3-way one day when riding the bus home without you guys (for some reason) as a junior. They may have been joking, but I didn't say "yes" to find out because, in that moment, I realized I had no actual interest in doing that--even though I thought the general expectation was that I, as a young man, would leap at the chance.

If she wanted to fall in love, Ritin would have been game. If she wanted a night of passion, Ritin would have learned something about himself.
The Mists
GM, 36 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 05:34
  • msg #46

Re: Into the mists

Ritin learns something about himself.

Next morning.
SIRE
player, 38 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 15:04
  • msg #47

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 46):

We accompany them.
The Mists
GM, 38 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 16:28
  • msg #48

Re: Into the mists

See Msg #42 for edit.

The next day a merchant wagon arrives in the village. A dreary rain persists, but not enough to stop business. Gold exchanges hands and the barrel wagon is loaded with boxes and sacks. They also strap things like ladders and shovels and the like to the outside of the wagon. The metal bits are oiled or covered with oiled cloth.

Down the road the vistani strike up another song playing instruments while driving the wagon and plodding along on their horses. (Way down hadestown, Anaïs Mitchell)
SIRE
player, 40 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 19:14
  • msg #49

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 48):

The only thing Ritin would ask the woman, based on your edited response, is whether they are allowed to help people leave Barovia or only to safely bring people in.

The answer will not change the decision to go.

OOC: Am I missing some kind of "stronger" hook in the module for a reason to go in? I'm just inclined to get to gettin'.

-----------

We check out the merchant's goods. If he has adventuring things, I will need to do gold.

Are the things the Vistani are purchasing the kinda of things we would otherwise expect a kingdom to not need to import? Like....are they buying ladders? Why import them?
The Mists
GM, 39 posts
Wed 25 Mar 2020
at 22:13
  • msg #50

Re: Into the mists

I am off book as far as hooks. I am going with you are the ones looking to go. The book hooks range from reward, call for help, adventure, or railroad, but all pretty weak and assume little to no knowledge of Strahd, I think. You going in with information complicates a little, but meh.

He has some adventuring things, assume anything 10gp and under from PHB.

Hussy
"People come and go at our lord's pleasure."

Stanimir
"Barovians are a lazy and fearful sort. They mend what they have and grow what they need. Not much for industry."

Re "Kingdom"
There are three towns/villages in Barovia, subsisting in a hostile environment.
SIRE
player, 41 posts
Thu 26 Mar 2020
at 15:09
  • msg #51

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 50):

I will try to find time to do gold today.
SIRE
player, 42 posts
Fri 27 Mar 2020
at 18:56
  • msg #52

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 51):

Done, and character sheets are up to date on the other site. I rolled for gold (you can see it in the dice roller) and bought equipment instead.
SIRE
player, 43 posts
Fri 27 Mar 2020
at 18:57
  • msg #53

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 52):

Forgot to mention that I don't think I need anything else unless a) the Vistani advise that I buy something in particular, b) something is on sale (or Ritin can haggle a bit), or c) there's something uniquely interesting.

OOC: Should I roll for trinkets or something?
SIRE
player, 44 posts
Tue 31 Mar 2020
at 15:03
  • msg #54

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 53):

I believe it is your turn.
SIRE
player, 45 posts
Thu 2 Apr 2020
at 21:04
  • msg #55

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 54):

I continue to believe it is your turn.
The Mists
GM, 40 posts
Fri 3 Apr 2020
at 17:46
  • msg #56

Re: Into the mists

Sorry, work has been busy. And before that I took days off to finish the apartment.
SIRE
player, 46 posts
Fri 3 Apr 2020
at 17:59
  • msg #57

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 56):

It's ok. Just keeping it "red" so you don't lose track.
SIRE
player, 47 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 18:49
  • msg #58

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 57):

Ping
The Mists
GM, 41 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 19:52
  • msg #59

Re: Into the mists

Ok, you travel with the vistani deep into the woods, which becomes more spread out and filled with fog. The land is at a gentle downward slope. Black pools of dark water stand like dark mirrors in and around the muddy roadway. Giant trees loom on both sides of the road, their branches clawing at the mists.

The fog spills out of the forest to swallow up the road be­ hind you. Ahead, jutting from the impenetrable woods on both sides of the road, are high stone buttresses looming gray in the fog. Huge iron gates hang on the stonework. Dew clings with cold tenacity to the rusted bars. Two headless statues of armed guardians flank the gate, their heads now lying among the weeds at their feet. They greet you only with silence.

The vistani wagon approaches the gates without slowing and the towering gates begin to open as they are still at a distance.


This message was last edited by the GM at 19:55, Mon 13 Apr 2020.
SIRE
player, 48 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 20:02
  • msg #60

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 59):

Along the way, I Edwin (and Imondo) keep an eye out for mushrooms.

OOC: I have gotten into looking for mushrooms IRL. Very fun.

Ritin: What do these walls mark the border of?
Edwin: What is known of these gates?
Imondo and Sen: Silence, other than Sen muttering a prayer of readiness.
The Mists
GM, 42 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 20:28
  • msg #61

Re: Into the mists

"They mark the borders of Strahd's kingdom," one of the vistani replies simply. They don't seem to know much history of the gates.

Whoever has the highest insight bonus marks it as the first time any of them have used the name 'Strahd'.
SIRE
player, 49 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 20:47
  • msg #62

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 61):

Imondo notices, who then whispers it to Edwin, who then (when he gets a minute) mentions it to Ritin, who then says:

You had not said his name until now. Is there a reason?
The Mists
GM, 43 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 20:55
  • msg #63

Re: Into the mists

“We may not be yet through his gates, but we are in his realm. Anyone who has made it this far will know him soon enough.”
SIRE
player, 50 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 21:04
  • msg #64

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 63):

If we have the time, Edwin and Ritin would like to take a moment to examine the statues. Edwin would take some notes.

Regardless, we follow the Vistani through the gates
The Mists
GM, 44 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 21:31
  • msg #65

Re: Into the mists

They stop the wagon for you, but will get annoyed after about 10 minutes. Anything in particular you are looking at/for?
SIRE
player, 51 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 21:37
  • msg #66

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 65):

Inscriptions, distinctive features on the statues, and committing the faces on the statues to memory--the theory being that the model for the statues was more likely to be of historical consequence than not. Of course, if they know, then asking them is just as good.
The Mists
GM, 45 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 22:25
  • msg #67

Re: Into the mists

Each can roll a Perception, Investigation, or history.
SIRE
player, 52 posts
Mon 13 Apr 2020
at 23:35
  • msg #68

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 67):

Mostly crap:

16:35, Today: SIRE rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Sen (Perception) +5.

16:34, Today: SIRE rolled 6 using 1d20.  Ritin (Investigation) +0.

16:34, Today: SIRE rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  Imondo (Percepion) +6.

16:33, Today: SIRE rolled 12 using 1d20+6.  Edwin (History) +6.
The Mists
GM, 46 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 00:28
  • msg #69

Re: Into the mists

The statues look weathered and old, probably hundreds of years. You don’t see inscriptions, though it’s possible it’s been defaced or just weathered away. Sen discovers the bones and mostly decomposed body of a corpse. It has a coin pouch with assorted coins equaling 11gp, a rusted short sword and dagger and an uncorked and busted glass vial. It is in the grass near one of the statue heads.
SIRE
player, 53 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 02:56
  • msg #70

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 69):

Sen asks the Vistani, suspecting the answer, if it is common practice to leave the dead unceremoniously rotting in the open. He does not loot the corpse.

He points the corpse out to the remainder of the party. Edwin attempts to discover if the dead man and the statue heads being on the ground are related
The Mists
GM, 47 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 04:50
  • msg #71

Re: Into the mists

“Sometimes. Unless there is someone around who cares to bury the poor soul. Or just the poor sap. Nobody knew it was here, in all likelihood.”

If nobody in your party takes the coin, one of the vistani do.
The Mists
GM, 48 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 21:11
  • msg #72

Re: Into the mists

When the vistana takes the coin, he says, “you will find that in these unforgiving lands that nothing sacred lasts. Even a few coins can mean the difference between life and death. Or at least, a little more life.”

The mists seems to close in behind you as you pass through the gate, then continue a short distance behind you. They seem to roil and grasp, like skeletal hands. The vistani don’t seem phased. The gates clang shut and you are reminded of a prison door slamming shut.

Towering trees, whose tops are lost in heavy gray mist, block out all but a death-gray light. The tree trunks are unnaturally close to one another, and the woods have the silence of a forgotten grave, yet exude the feeling of an unvoiced scream.

After a little while of traveling through the trees (maybe 20min), the forest dies away to rolling and stony grassland. One of the vistani says, “not far now to town where we will sell our goods.”
SIRE
player, 54 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 21:34
  • msg #73

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 72):

Sen: Shakes his head at the lack of respect for the sanctity of death
Edwin: Carefully taking note of his surroundings, looking to learn
Imondo: Carefully taking note of his surroundings, looking for threats
Ritin: Making sure he looks spiffy for an introduction to the townsfolk

Edwin asks about the trees being close together, the fog, and the silence. Also how the gates opened and closed without an apparent operator
The Mists
GM, 49 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 22:07
  • msg #74

Re: Into the mists

“Everything in Barovia is the way Strahd wishes it to be. I do not know by what devilry these things are possible, but I must warn you against the mists. If you try to leave these lands they will choke you with their poison.”

After another 30min or so, tall shapes loom out of the dense fog that surrounds ev­erything. The muddy ground underfoot gives way to slick, wet cobblestones. The tall shapes become recognizable as village dwellings. The windows of each house stare out from pools of blackness. No sound cuts the silence except for mournful sobbing that echoes through the streets from a distance.

“Welcome to the village of Barovia.” One of the vistana says in a tone the belies the palpable sorrow that hangs in the air.
SIRE
player, 55 posts
Tue 14 Apr 2020
at 23:31
  • msg #75

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 74):

Ritin asks for a rundown of the key locales and individuals in Barovia.
The Mists
GM, 51 posts
Wed 15 Apr 2020
at 04:58
  • msg #76

Re: Into the mists

The Old Svalich Road (which you have been traveling on) passes through Strahd's do­ main. Three settlements lie on the road like beads on a string: Krezk to the west,Vallaki in the heart of the valley, and Barovia to the east. Strahd has spies in each settlement.

Looming to the north of the village of Barovia is castle ravenloft. It was named after Strahd’s mother in some fashion. Strahd resides there with his consorts and other foul minions.

The vistani have a couple camps and some love scattered in the villages.

Each village has a local leader, in the village of Barovia it is Kolyan Indirovich, the Burgomaster.

There is a mercantile in town, where the vistani are heading and an inn run by a vistana family.

The echoing sobs reach a crescendo and seem to stop a moment, then continue. The a couple of the vistani look at you to see how you react. They continue heading to the mercantile though.
SIRE
player, 57 posts
Wed 15 Apr 2020
at 15:25
  • msg #77

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 76):

Ritin: How do these towns exist in the shadow of that castle?
Edwin: ...Are they farms for...him?

Sen: Is the sound of weeping normal enough to not merit comment? Do you know who weeps?
Imondo: *clearly awaiting the Vistani answer*
The Mists
GM, 53 posts
Thu 16 Apr 2020
at 01:46
  • msg #78

Re: Into the mists

"Normal enough, but I know such things are not where you come from. I do not know who weeps. There are no shortage of tears. But it is not common to cause any such disturbance."

"Farms? I do not think our lord see it that way, but I do not know. He seems to wish to be absolute lord and ruler over this people. He does, of course, feed on the Barovians."
SIRE
player, 59 posts
Thu 16 Apr 2020
at 03:28
  • msg #79

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 78):

Sen: I have many questions...
Ritin: but the weeping demands attention. We are here to help, after all.
Sen: To be continued, friends. We will meet again.

Without a word, and before Ritin can take the lead, Sen moves in the direction of the weeping. The rest follow.
The Mists
GM, 54 posts
Fri 17 Apr 2020
at 01:25
  • msg #80

Re: Into the mists

"We will be at the mercantile, then across the street at the inn," (he points down the street)

Your party turns to the right toward the source of the weeping. You can only see a couple houses into the distance through the fog. After a few houses you come upon a two children. Rather than finding a woman weeping, the young boy is sobbing and moaning. As you approach, the girl who appears a couple years older shushes him.

"There's a monster in our house!" She then points to a tall brick row house that has seen better days. Its windows are dark. It has a gated portico on the ground floor, and the rusty gate is slightly ajar. The houses on either side are abandoned, their windows and doors boarded up.




SIRE
player, 60 posts
Fri 17 Apr 2020
at 02:42
  • msg #81

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 80):

Ritin: Divine Sense
All: Draw weapons
Sen: What kind?
The Mists
GM, 57 posts
Fri 17 Apr 2020
at 04:16
  • msg #82

Re: Into the mists

"We don't know, we just hear its howls."

You don't sense anything.
SIRE
player, 62 posts
Fri 17 Apr 2020
at 22:49
  • msg #83

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 82):

Sen: "Go somewhere safer."
Edwin and Sen both cast light, focused on themselves.
Ritin and Imondo take the lead, Edwin in the middle, Sen in the rear keeping an eye on the creepy children as they all move up to the door of the house to listen, test the door, and get ready to move in.
The Mists
GM, 58 posts
Sat 18 Apr 2020
at 03:25
  • msg #84

Re: Into the mists

A wrought-iron gate with hinges on one side and a lock on the other fills the archway of a stone portico. The gate is unlocked, and its rusty hinges shriek when the gate is opened. Oil lamps hang from the portico ceiling by chains, flanking a set of oaken doors.

The house is quiet.

When you look back at the kids, they are nowhere to be seen.
SIRE
player, 63 posts
Sat 18 Apr 2020
at 23:47
  • msg #85

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 84):

Sen (quietly): Those kids are gone, but I didn't see them go. This might not even be their house.
Ritin: Do you suppose we should just knock?

OOC: If the oil lamps are lit...

Sen: Yes. No sense making our first introduction to the locals a break in.

OOC: If the oil lamps are not lit, and if the house looks to generally be in disrepair...

Sen: Let's look around the outside first.
The Mists
GM, 59 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2020
at 16:07
  • msg #86

Re: Into the mists

They are not lit, but it is also still daytime. If you check them, they seem to not have any oil residue. That being said, compared to other houses you've seen, it looks to be in fairly good repair. When you go to leave the portico to inspect the rest of the house the fog creeps toward you obscuring vision even a few feet away. (do you still walk around the house?)
SIRE
player, 64 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2020
at 18:19
  • msg #87

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 86):

Like the fog is sentient? If so:

Sen: It begins...Be on guard, let's go into the house
Ritin: What begins?
Sen: We are being toyed with.
Edwin: Steps a little closer to Imondo and says "It could just be a natural phenomenon"
Sen: There is no natural in this place. That is why you came, after all.
Ritin: We came to be heroes. Let's be heroes.

Imondo, then Ritin, then Edwin, then Sen go through the doorway after Imondo checks it for traps and then tests the door. Roll to come.
SIRE
player, 65 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2020
at 19:23
  • msg #88

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 87):

Imondo: 10.

Should have done help and guidance. Ah well.
The Mists
GM, 60 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2020
at 07:29
  • msg #89

Re: Into the mists

Didn't matter this time.

During the investigation, Imondo nudges a door slightly while checking the seems, and the two heavy, oaken, french doors slowly creak open, not stopping until they bump until the adjacent walls. The doors open into a grand foyer, 10’ wide, 15’ long.

Hanging on the south wall (your right) of the foyer is a shield emblazoned with a coat-of-arms (a stylized golden  windmill on a red field), flanked by framed portraits of stony-faced aristocrats. Mahogany-framed double doors leading from the foyer to the main hall (area 2A) are set with panes of stained glass.
SIRE
player, 66 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2020
at 15:29
  • msg #90

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 89):

Sen casts guidance on Imondo and has him search the room. Behind and under things, quietly as can be.

Edwin looks at the pictures for notable details.

Ritin tries to get a peek through the stained glass.

Sen guards their six
The Mists
GM, 61 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2020
at 03:44
  • msg #91

Re: Into the mists

You do not find anything noteworthy.

(As far as SOP, who uses what skill to search? Perception reveals data, traps (but not necessary how to disarm), etc. Investigation provides clues of use, how things work, purpose of features.)

The painting look to be fairly good quality. Everything looks clean and dusted. There are oil lamps on the walls, which have oil, but are not lit.

The next door does not appear to be trapped. The rear doors remain open. The mists hover and slightly roil outside the portico.
SIRE
player, 67 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2020
at 15:21
  • msg #92

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 91):

Imondo and Sen are Perception guys. Edwin is an Investigation guy. Let's say Ritin is more Perception as well.

We check out the rear door for threats without leaving the house.
The Mists
GM, 62 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2020
at 19:32
  • msg #93

Re: Into the mists

You do not detect any.
SIRE
player, 68 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2020
at 19:50
  • msg #94

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 93):

Is the back of the house non-descript? If so, we will open the non-trapped door and peek inside
The Mists
GM, 63 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2020
at 19:55
  • msg #95

Re: Into the mists

Sorry, there was a misunderstanding, I meant the doors you went through to get in te house are still open and the mists aren't entering or abating. Not the rear of the house.

But yeah, you can skirt the outside of the house, and you find another door on the right side of the house, near the back end.

It is not trapped or locked. It seems to open to a kitchen.
SIRE
player, 69 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2020
at 21:29
  • msg #96

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 95):

Would it be easier to say that I want to systematically search this floor of the house before moving to another floor? To me, that means:

1) Listen at an entrance to a room to see if we can hear anything on the other side
2) Search the way into the room for traps
3) Open (if applicable) barriers to the room
4) Visually survey the room (moving Light from one of the two casters, if required)
5) Move into the room and search it for hostile creatures
6) Survey the room for noteworthy things, but (given this is someone's property) no rifling through stuff we wouldn't be able to see if we were an acquaintance
7) Move on to the next room

I would do either a left-hand or right-hand rule (like a maze) to search the house. The only wrinkle would be keeping an eye out for unaccounted for physical areas that may represent a glowing red dagger hiding in the walls or a similar secret room.
The Mists
GM, 67 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 18:35
  • msg #97

Re: Into the mists



A wide hall runs the width of the house, with a black marble fireplace at one end and a sweeping, red marble staircase at the other. Mounted on the wall above the fireplace is a longsword with a windmill cameo worked into the hilt. The wood-paneled walls are ornately sculpted with images of vines, flowers, nymphs, and satyrs. Upon close inspection, the paneling has serpents and skulls inconspicuously woven into the wall designs. The decorative paneling follows the staircase as it circles upward to the second floor.
SIRE
player, 72 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 18:50
  • msg #98

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 97):

I am going to refer to the rooms in clockwise order, starting at the southwest corner:

Room 1: Just a foyer?
Room 2: Are those painting on the east wall? Is there anything behind them, written on their backside? Are there secret passages in the wall?
Room 3: If the answers are Yes, Yes, No, and No, then we move into Room 3. Imondo searches the fireplace while Edwin attempts to discern something more about what the carvings are depicting. Sen and Ritin keep watch while they search.

From there, we will be checking Room 6 (Southeast)
The Mists
GM, 68 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 19:08
  • msg #99

Re: Into the mists

*Note, I'm rotating the map to coincide with actual North, etc. Makes the copy/pasta easier.

Yes.
Yes and a shield: "a shield emblazoned with a coat-of-arms (a stylized golden windmill on a red field), flanked by framed portraits of stony-faced aristocrats"

No.
No.

You can't make out a pattern.

Fireplace appears to be normal.



This oak-paneled room looks like a hunter’s den. Mounted above the fireplace is a stag’s head, and positioned around the outskirts of the room are three stuffed wolves.

Two padded chairs draped in animal furs face the hearth, with an oak table between them supporting a cask of wine, two carved wooden goblets, a pipe rack, and a candelabrum. A chandelier hangs above a cloth-covered table surrounded by four chairs.

Two cabinets stand against the walls. The east cabinet sports a lock. The north cabinet is unlocked.
SIRE
player, 73 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 19:19
  • msg #100

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 99):

Edwin and Sen carefully inspect the wolves.

Ritin checks the unlocked cabinet.

Imondo keeps watch at the door.
The Mists
GM, 69 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 19:56
  • msg #101

Re: Into the mists

They appear to be stuffed wolves in good condition. Everything in the house seems to be in good condition.

The unlocked cabinet holds a small box containing a deck of playing cards and an assortment of wine glasses.

(You have light cast, right? the rooms are dark otherwise)
SIRE
player, 74 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 19:59
  • msg #102

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 101):

Yeah -- Twice. Each caster has it.

While Imondo continues to keep watch, the others search the room for a key to the locked cabinet. Sen does so reluctantly, as there doesn't seem to be much of a reason to open a cabinet you can't take anything from without being a heel.
The Mists
GM, 70 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 20:06
  • msg #103

Re: Into the mists

Ok, roll investigation/perception checks.

It might be good for you to set up a 'search' roll where you roll all the character's perceptions and investigations. It would be good if you cold somehow note what order the rolls are and how they relate to each character and whether they are inv or perc.
SIRE
player, 75 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 21:28
  • msg #104

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 103):

14:25, Today: SIRE rolled 14,16,10,24 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 9,15,4,18.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

OOC: Here's how to decode that
- {Sen(Perception),Imondo(Perception),Ritin(Perpception),Edwin(Investigation)}

So:
- Sen (Perception): 14
- Imondo (Perception): 16
- Ritin (Perception): 10
- Edwin (Investigation): 24
The Mists
GM, 71 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 22:38
  • msg #105

Re: Into the mists

You find nothing else of not, but you are able to peak in the lock cabinet just barely and you see part of a shaft and fletching, and some curved wood. Edwin puts together that they is probably at least one crossbow and this is the equivalent to a hunting lodge and that's where the crossbow(s) are kept.
SIRE
player, 76 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 22:46
  • msg #106

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 105):

Ritin directs Imondo to help him move the wolves, which garners an eye-roll from Sen.

Two of the wolves are placed facing out the front door (we close the door). The remaining wolf is placed in the little hall that has the two doors, just southeast of center. The hope here is just to startle anyone coming behind us enough to get a warning of their approach.

From there, we listen at, search, and try the nort-most untried door.
SIRE
player, 77 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 17:00
  • msg #107

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 106):

Ping
The Mists
GM, 72 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 17:11
  • msg #108

Re: Into the mists

Ok, but use the new orientation for North etc.



The centerpiece of this wood-paneled dining room is a carved mahogany table surrounded by eight high-backed chairs with sculpted armrests and cushioned seats. A crystal chandelier hangs above the table, which is covered with resplendent silverware and crystalware polished to a dazzling shine. Mounted above the marble fireplace is a mahogany-framed painting of an alpine vale.

The wall paneling is carved with elegant images of deer among the trees.

Red silk drapes cover the windows, and a tapestry depicting hunting dogs and horse-mounted aristocrats chasing after a wolf hangs from an iron rod bolted to the south wall.
SIRE
player, 78 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 17:21
  • msg #109

Re: Into the mists

The Mists:
Ok, but use the new orientation for North etc.

OOC: Didn't I?

We search the room, paying particular attention to the fireplace, tapestry, and unaccounted for black space.

10:20, Today: SIRE rolled 17,9,8,26 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 12,8,2,20.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Edwin rolled a 20. Sen has the other good roll.
The Mists
GM, 73 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 17:30
  • msg #110

Re: Into the mists

Oh, haha, I assumed incompetence, I guess. I was thinking you meant the door that was indented further than the other doors.

In the paneling, Sen sees twisted faces carved into the tree trunks and wolves lurking amid the carved foliage.

Edwin does not find any way into the blank space, or anything conspicuous about it, other than not being able to access it.

(It is funny using maps like this since when you walk through a house you don't notice spaces like that, unless you are looking at a floor plan, or really paying attention, which I guess you would be...)
SIRE
player, 79 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 18:01
  • msg #111

Re: Into the mists

The Mists:
(It is funny using maps like this since when you walk through a house you don't notice spaces like that, unless you are looking at a floor plan, or really paying attention, which I guess you would be...)


OOC: I actually do look for missing space in buildings, particularly old buildings, quite often. Casually. I like the idea of secret passages more than the reality of them.

Ok. We check the southern door and then check out the room.
The Mists
GM, 74 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 19:11
  • msg #112

Re: Into the mists



The kitchen is tidy, with dishware, cookware, and utensils neatly placed on shelves. A worktable has a cutting board and rolling pin atop it. A stone, dome-shaped oven stands near the east wall, its bent iron stovepipe connecting to a hole in the ceiling. Behind the stove and to the left is a thin door leading to a well-stocked pantry. All the food in the pantry appears fresh.

Dumbwaiter

Behind a small door in the southwest corner of the kitchen is a dumbwaiter — a 2-foot-wide stone shaft containing a wooden elevator box attached to a simple rope-and-pulley mechanism that must be operated manually. Hanging on the wall next to the dumbwaiter is a tiny brass bell attached by wires to buttons in those other areas.


In the main room you open the last door which is a cloakroom.

A cloakroom has several black cloaks hanging from hooks on the walls. A top hat sits on a high shelf.
SIRE
player, 80 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 19:22
  • msg #113

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 112):

1) Does the dumbwaiter only go up from here?
2) Are there any contents in the cloaks?
3) Is there anything under the top hat?

I could also just generically search.
The Mists
GM, 75 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 19:25
  • msg #114

Re: Into the mists

The dumbwaiter only goes up.
You find some pocket change, let's say 4sp, 2gp.
A rabbit that bites your head off. Just kidding; nothing.
SIRE
player, 81 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 19:27
  • msg #115

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 114):

We do not loot. We go upstairs with caution.
The Mists
GM, 76 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2020
at 19:43
  • msg #116

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
We do not loot. We go upstairs with caution.

I like to think of it as peaceful protest.

Map coming.
The Mists
GM, 78 posts
Sat 18 Jul 2020
at 17:26
  • msg #117

Re: Into the mists



The first room you enter into is slowly illuminated as you ascend the stairs by your Light spells. Unlit oil lamps are mounted on the walls of this elegant hall. Hanging above the mantelpiece is a wood-framed family portrait of an elegantly dressed mother, father, and two children, a little girl and a little boy. You recognize the children as those you met outside the house. Cradled in the father’s arms is a swaddled baby, which the mother regards with a hint of scorn.

Standing suits of armor flank wooden doors in the east and west walls. Each suit of armor clutches a spear and has a visored helm shaped like a wolf’s head. The doors are carved with dancing youths.

The red marble staircase that started on the first floor continues its upward spiral to area 11. A cold draft can be felt coming down the steps.

Let me know if the img doesn't load.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:03, Sat 18 July 2020.
SIRE
player, 83 posts
Sat 18 Jul 2020
at 19:10
  • msg #118

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 117):

Ok -- if possible, I bar the eastern doors with spears from the statues and check out the western room, with caution.
The Mists
GM, 79 posts
Sat 18 Jul 2020
at 20:21
  • msg #119

Re: Into the mists

I think that the doors would open into the middle area, since I think it would make since that you'd be about to lock it from the inside. So, I we'll say that the handles are hoops and you can put spears in them, but they will probably be able to open a few inches before jamming up.

You go into the other set of double doors to the west.

Gossamer drapes cover the windows of this elegantly appointed hall, which has a brass-plated chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Upholstered chairs line the walls, and stained-glass wall hangings depict beautiful men, women, and children singing and playing instruments.

A harpsichord with a bench rests in the northwest corner. Near the fireplace is a large standing harp. Alabaster figurines of well-dressed dancers adorn the mantelpiece. Close inspection of them reveals that several are carvings of well-dressed skeletons, which seems to dance by a trick of the light and shadow as you move about the room.
SIRE
player, 84 posts
Sun 19 Jul 2020
at 20:36
  • msg #120

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 119):

Ok -- We search the room, but I'm specifically interested in a) whether the harp/sichord are in tune (I would test this by muting the strings before strumming them to reduce noise) and b) whether there is any sheet music out and about to determine if there is anything interesting about the song of choice.

Rolls: 13:35, Today: SIRE rolled 7,9,13,16 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 2,8,7,10.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

So high perception from Ritin with a 13, and a 16 on investigation from Edwin.
The Mists
GM, 80 posts
Thu 12 Nov 2020
at 17:25
  • msg #121

Re: Into the mists

The instruments seem in tune, unless a character has proficiency in a musical instrument, then he believes it to be slightly out of tune, but nothing out of the ordinary. If you ask me which strings/notes, I will just have to make it up.

You find sheet music. There are simple tunes with markings, like what you would expect for tutoring a child. There are other pieces you don't recognize (unless you roll a really high history check). They seem to favor minor keys.
SIRE
player, 85 posts
Tue 17 Nov 2020
at 20:20
  • msg #122

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 121):

High of 13 for History check.

I think that is enough for this room, so we cautiously move back to the foyer, block the doors to the music room with spears, and then move into the NE room with the statues outside to see what's in there.

Pre-emptive Perception/Investigation roll:

12:20, Today: SIRE rolled 7,4,11,22 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 2,3,5,16.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Edwin 22 for investigation, Ritin 11 for Perception
The Mists
GM, 81 posts
Tue 17 Nov 2020
at 20:50
  • msg #123

Re: Into the mists

Red velvet drapes cover the windows of this room. An exquisite mahogany desk and a matching high-back chair face the entrance and the fireplace, above which hangs a framed picture of a windmill perched atop a rocky crag. Situated in corners of the room are two overstuffed chairs. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves line the south wall. A rolling wooden ladder allows one to more easily reach the high shelves.

The desk has several items resting atop it: an oil lamp, a jar of ink, a quill pen, a tinderbox, and a letter kit containing a red wax candle, four blank sheets of parchment, and a wooden seal bearing the Durst family’s insignia (a windmill). The desk drawer is empty except for an iron key.

The bookshelves hold hundreds of tomes covering a range of topics including history, warfare, and alchemy. There are also several shelves containing first-edition collected works of poetry and fiction. The books rot and fall apart if taken from the house.

Edwin, inspecting the books, finds that one of them does not have a title on its spine and by closer inspection believes it to be a fake. When you pull it back, and some catch release and the bookshelf begins to swing open about an inch, then stops. It will swing freely to reveal a secret room (the small room in the SE corner of the map).

In the room there are bookshelves and a wooden chest with iron claw feet. The chest is partially open, kept from shutting by a human skeleton that is slumped over, halfway in the chest.
SIRE
player, 86 posts
Wed 18 Nov 2020
at 17:33
  • msg #124

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 123):

Ritin pockets the iron key.

Edwin motions for Sen to come over to the secret room, and they search it:

09:32, Today: SIRE rolled 15,10,15,8 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 ((10,9,9,2)

That's a 15 Perception for Sen and an 8 Investigation for Edwin.

Imondo looks around for books about the family history to try to determine the significance and location of the windmill.
The Mists
GM, 82 posts
Wed 18 Nov 2020
at 18:48
  • msg #125

Re: Into the mists

The bookshelves are packed with tomes describing fiend-summoning rituals and the necromantic rituals of a cult called the Priests of Osybus.

Close inspection reveals that the skeleton belongs to a human who triggered a poisoned dart trap. Three darts are stuck in the dead adventurer’s armor and ribcage. The dart-firing mechanism inside the chest no longer functions.

Clutched in the skeleton’s left hand is a letter bearing the seal of Strahd von Zarovich, which the adventurer tried to remove from the chest. Written in flowing script, the letter reads as follows:

My most pathetic servant,

I am not a messiah sent to you by the Dark Powers of this land. I have not come to lead you on a path to immortality. However many souls you have bled on your hidden altar, however many visitors you have tortured in your dungeon, know that you are not the ones who brought me to this beautiful land. You are but worms writhing in my earth.

You say that you are cursed, your fortunes spent. You abandoned love for madness, took solace in the bosom of another woman, and sired a stillborn son. Cursed by darkness? Of that I have no doubt. Save you from your wretchedness? I think not. I much prefer you as you are.

Your dread lord and master,

Strahd von Zarovich

The chest contains three blank books with black leather covers, three spell scrolls (bless, protection from poison, and spiritual weapon), the deed to the house, the deed to a windmill, and a signed will.

You figure out that windmill referred to in the second deed is situated in the mountains east of Vallaki.

The will is signed by Gustav and Elisabeth Durst and bequeathes the house, the windmill, and all other family property to Rosavalda and Thornboldt Durst in the event of their parents’ deaths.
SIRE
player, 87 posts
Wed 18 Nov 2020
at 19:27
  • msg #126

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 125):

Sen: "Damned by the damned..."

Sen takes the letter, the blank books (giving one to Edwin and one to Ritin), the scrolls, the deeds, and the will.

He then searches the adventurer's belongings while wondering at the door being closed behind the unfortunate soul--stopping a moment at that musing to put something in the jamb to hold the door open in the event of any chicanery.

(From here, the plan is to go and search the last room on the floor)
The Mists
GM, 83 posts
Wed 18 Nov 2020
at 19:41
  • msg #127

Re: Into the mists

An undecorated bedroom contains a pair of beds with straw-stuffed mattresses. At the foot of each bed is an empty footlocker. Tidy servants’ uniforms hang from hooks in the adjoining closet.

A dumbwaiter in the corner of the west wall has a button on the wall next to it. Pressing the button rings the tiny bell Downstairs.
SIRE
player, 88 posts
Wed 18 Nov 2020
at 19:45
  • msg #128

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 127):

Ok -- We head up to the next floor.
The Mists
GM, 84 posts
Thu 19 Nov 2020
at 23:00
  • msg #129

Re: Into the mists

You climb to the top floor. Once again, the room is illuminated beginning with the ceiling, then climbing down the walls as your light sources crest the red marble staircase. You noticed when you cast Light (just thought of this recently, so retcon) here in Barovia, that no matter how you meant to manifest the color of Light, it casts a pale shade, and seems to illuminate your vaporous breath in cold air more than you would expect. Dust motes near the light source are so well illuminated as to be almost distracting. The faces of your companions, when on the edges of the light’s reach appear menacing and sinister.

The top landing is a balcony overlooking the staircase with a fine and solid hand carved railing. Directly across, against the wall is a full suit of black armor covered in dust and cobwebs. Oil lamps are mounted on the oak-paneled walls, which are carved with woodland scenes of trees, falling leaves, and tiny critters, though you suspect that like the rest of the house, the scenes likely contains some kind of horrific hidden scene.
SIRE
player, 89 posts
Thu 19 Nov 2020
at 23:42
  • msg #130

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 129):

After searching the landing area (and specifically the armor), we will move into the room that is south in the photo you sent, and search that as well:

Search 1: 15:41, Today: SIRE rolled 13,10,16,14 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 8,9,10,8.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Imondo with a 16 Perception. Edwin with a 14 Investigation.

Search 2: 15:41, Today: SIRE rolled 20,9,10,22 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 15,8,4,16.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Sen with a 20 Perception. Edwin with a 22 Investigation.
The Mists
GM, 85 posts
Fri 20 Nov 2020
at 01:43
  • msg #131

Re: Into the mists

Since Sen is first in the name/rolling order, I am going to put him first. When Sen approaches the armor to look at it, it animated and attacks. Roll initiative.

I am going to give the armor a surprise round. Might be kind of a grey area, but I am treating it as invisible for all intense and porpoises.
SIRE
player, 90 posts
Fri 20 Nov 2020
at 16:53
  • msg #132

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 131):

OOC: Sen rolled like a baller (crit). Imondo and Ritin rolled chumps (crits).

S:22,I:5,R:2,E:7
The Mists
GM, 86 posts
Fri 20 Nov 2020
at 17:23
  • msg #133

Re: Into the mists

S:22
AA: 9
E:7
I:5
R:2

Because I believe in crits mattering, here is what's going ot happen. Sen will not be surprised and will act before the Animated Armor. Then the AA will go, the rest of the bunch will be surprised for the first round, then back up to Sen. So:
Round 1
Sen
AA
Round 2
Sen
AA
Edwin
Inmondo
Ritin

Sen will begin within 5' of the animated armor. Note, that the AA can technically take a reaction. The surprised characters cannot take reactions.
SIRE
player, 91 posts
Fri 20 Nov 2020
at 20:59
  • msg #134

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 133):

Sen provokes the OA by stepping back 5' and then casts guiding bolt:

12:58, Today: SIRE rolled 10 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 5.  Sen Spell Attack.
12:59, Today: SIRE rolled 17 using 4d6 with rolls of 5,4,6,2.  Guiding Bolt Damage.
The Mists
GM, 87 posts
Sat 21 Nov 2020
at 14:36
  • msg #135

Re: Into the mists

Ok, so the armor takes the OA on Sen, swinging a gauntled fist.

Att: 14
Dam: 6

Sen's Guiding Bolt flashes in the silent house, going wide and striking the wall with radiant energy, which in an instant infuses with light then bursts splinters of wood over the balcony.

It then steps up and takes two more swings.

Att: 14
Dam: 8

Att: 13
Dam: 7

I don't know your ACs, and can't access where they are, so hopefully Sen has AC 15 or better...

Let me know what happens, if one or more of the attacks takes you down, let me know which one.
SIRE
player, 92 posts
Sun 22 Nov 2020
at 20:20
  • msg #136

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 135):

OOC: I need to get you access to those sheets.
1) www.dungeonmastersvault.com
2) username: tornflannel
3) password: DandorD

Sen (AC18) is not hit.

Edwin (AC11) makes sure he is more than 5' away and has line of sight, then casts Fire Bolt. After that he moves to put someone in armor is between him and the animated armor: Attack (23), Damage (6)

Imondo (AC18) moves up and attacks with his quarterstaff, then kicks the armor as a bonus action (martial arts) before moving out of the armor's reach: Attack (9), Damage (7); Attack (7 - crit fail);

Ritin (AC18) moves up and attacks with his quarterstaff, then again as a bonus actions (PAM), before moving out of the armor's reach: Attack (22), Damage (4); Attack(11), Damage (4)

Sen tries to keep the armor occupied and takes the Dodge action.
The Mists
GM, 88 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 01:18
  • msg #137

Re: Into the mists

Please note the turn order noted above. It was Sen, AA, Sen, AA, E,I,R.

So, Sen moves (OA), Sen whiffs, AA attacks twice, then it’s Sen’s turn, which is the dodge action. Now AA will attack twice with disadvantage which I will do now.

The armor swings and misses twice more.

Edwin’s mote of fire strikes the armor, burning a hole into it. Inmondo’s staff clangs ineffectually and his foot strikes painfully against it, slicing Inmondo’s foot (no damage, just flavor).

Ritin last first blow knocks a bit of pauldren off the shoulder.

You estimate it’s AC to be 18.

Sen keeps up his dance with the armor. Concentrating on defense, he is able to slip a potentially critical blow and remains unscathed. (AA attacks twice missing both time).

Back to E,I,R, then S.
SIRE
player, 93 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 01:26
  • msg #138

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 137):

Essentially a repeat of last rounds actions:

Edwin: Fire Bolt (23) for 3 Damage
Imondo: Qstaff (25) for 6 Damage, Martial Arts (20) for 7 Damage
Ritin: Qstaff (11) and PAM (14) for 0 Damage
Sen: Dodge Action
The Mists
GM, 89 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 01:30
  • msg #139

Re: Into the mists

First att vs Sen: 19 and 20, another crit averted, but still a hit.
5 damage to Sen.

7 hit points left, so post as appropriately if you destroy it.
SIRE
player, 94 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 01:37
  • msg #140

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 139):

Edwin lets loose one more fire bolt (19) for 2 damage, and Imondo finishes the armor off with a well-placed blow from his staff (23) for 7 damage.

Ritin looks over the balcony to see if anything is coming up from below. Sen listens intently for the sound of anything moving behind the doors. Edwin, very curious, starts inspecting the felled armor. Imondo guards Edwin while he searches.
The Mists
GM, 90 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 02:20
  • msg #141

Re: Into the mists

The house remains silent.

The armor is now inanimate and damaged beyond usefulness.
SIRE
player, 95 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 02:28
  • msg #142

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 141):

Ok. Then Imondo leads the way through the door to the south in the pic you sent.
SIRE
player, 96 posts
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 21:08
  • msg #143

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 142):

Waiting on a brief description of the southern room, then will move back to landing and check SW door from photo.
The Mists
GM, 91 posts
Sun 29 Nov 2020
at 23:43
  • msg #144

Re: Into the mists

The room looks neat but dusty and empty. Probably a servant room, but larger and nicer than other servant’s quarters, with a bed for two, though only one side looks to have sunk from long term use.

The French doors to the SW have large glass panes and through which you see an outside balcony with a couple chairs.
SIRE
player, 97 posts
Mon 30 Nov 2020
at 01:13
  • msg #145

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 144):

OK. Doors just around the corner from where the armor was.
The Mists
GM, 92 posts
Mon 30 Nov 2020
at 01:45
  • msg #146

Re: Into the mists

You open you the last door connected to this bedroom and you see the slight frame of a young woman standing in front of a crib draped with a black shroud. She is facing the crib and you hear a soft humming or a lullaby.
SIRE
player, 98 posts
Mon 30 Nov 2020
at 06:38
  • msg #147

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 146):

Combat, I think. Violence is about to break out.
The Mists
GM, 93 posts
Mon 30 Nov 2020
at 14:17
  • msg #148

Re: Into the mists

As you reach for weapons, arcane focus, and holy symbol (probably), the woman silently... rotates to face you.

Ok, I rolled initiative for everyone, and was thinking of letting you roll for yourself because of how poorly I rolled for you, but then I rolled a nat 20 for the baddie, so, I am thinking it probably doesn't matter.

Though her pose remains still, arms hanging down at here sides, she rises up through the ceiling. A moment later she descends behind the group (still in the bedroom) and reaches for Edwin's chest, as if to grip his heart.

Att: 15
-If hit-
Damage: 7 necrotic
Also a Con Save, DC 10

OOC: Can you paste your ACs in the character description? If not, I will do it after work.
The Mists
GM, 94 posts
Tue 1 Dec 2020
at 14:33
  • msg #149

Re: Into the mists

The specter reaches her hand into Edwin's chest and he feels the icy clutches of death around his heart before everything goes black. The others see Edwin fall lifeless to the floor, eyes still open.

She then moves down through the floor (choose two characters to take opportunity attacks (whoever did not open the door). Since all your characters go before she does, go ahead and do the turns in whatever order you want, unless you want the turn order constraint.

On Edwin's turn, roll a d6. A roll of 1 is dead-dead, the other results are mixed with higher being generally "better". This is not by the book. If you die-die, there are people who can cast raise dead in Barovia. Or you could roll up a character.
SIRE
player, 99 posts
Tue 1 Dec 2020
at 23:58
  • msg #150

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 149):

Edwin rolls a 2.

Further post pending text feedback
SIRE
player, 106 posts
Thu 3 Dec 2020
at 21:32
  • msg #151

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 150):

Ok. Here goes. This room is too small for guiding bolt:

Ritin and Sen both take OAs against the specter:

Ritin: Attack (19), Damage (6, bludgeoning)
Sen: Critical Miss with Hand Axe

Imondo (opened door) moves to the NE (top right) corner of the bed and readies an action to attack the specter when it comes within reach.

If he awakens, Edwin (on floor between Sen and Ritin) readies Magic Missle from the floor. If he does not awaken, c'est la mort.

Ritin (south-most circle) readies an action to attack the specter without moving.

Sen moves (north-most circle) moves into the nursery 1 square and readies Guiding Bolt.
The Mists
GM, 100 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 02:34
  • msg #152

Re: Into the mists

Ok, the specter silently peeks into the nursery through the wall behind the crib, Sen, ever vigilant notices her and fires off a guiding bolt as her face contorts into a sneer as she begins to rush. Edwin, never surprised, reacts to Sen’s attack by unleashing his magical darts.

Sen has a great passive perception. Probably wouldn’t have hosed you anyway, but I was thinking 15 passive perception to notice.

Even though it’s close quarters, I am not imposing disadvantage for the guiding bolt because of phasing through walls starts her at the back edge of square.

Roll. Spell attacks.
SIRE
player, 107 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 02:41
  • msg #153

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 152):

Sen: Attack (18), Damage (13 Radiant)
Edwin: Attack (Magic Missile), Damage (12 Force)
The Mists
GM, 101 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 12:46
  • msg #154

Re: Into the mists

Sen's guiding bolt blasts a spectral hole in her side, making her body glow with radiant glow. Soundless, but screaming, she lunges forward to extinguish Sen's life, but comes into view of Edwin who's darts of force blast her apart.

Edwin, and only Edwin, sees her spirit fly toward the SW (actual SW, not based on the map, which is rotated). And he gains 2 temp HP.
SIRE
player, 108 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 16:00
  • msg #155

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 154):

Edwin explains everything he experienced while dead to his companions.

More in a bit
The Mists
GM, 102 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 16:02
  • msg #156

Re: Into the mists

Make sure to include how the others react.
SIRE
player, 109 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 17:18
  • msg #157

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 156):

Imondo looks concerned for Edwin, and goes to comfort him.
Ritin looks skeptical and then, as the story goes on, like someone who thinks he may have bitten off more than he can chew.
Sen looks grim, with a set jaw and, before he can open his mouth to say the same, Edwin says:

"Until we know more about the Amber Temple, I believe violence will be a last resort for me."

Sen thinks about adding more, but does not. Just nods.

Sen: "We should proceed with extra caution from here. I will not be able to cast any more until we rest."

----

I think we skipped searching the last room because I was concerned about the armor having woken something up, so I am going to skip searching this one, too. Probably come back through it once it looks clear to do the rolling.

----

We move to the next door clockwise.
The Mists
GM, 103 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 18:39
  • msg #158

Re: Into the mists

Will text you a map next time I have my phone.

14. Storage Room (1 square wide, 2 squares deep), just off the animated armor room, above the nursery on the map.

Dusty shelves line the walls of this room. A few of the shelves have folded sheets, blankets, and old bars of soap on them. Leaning against the wall is a cobweb covered broom and dust pan.

I am assuming you always just look into each of the rooms and not pile in every time unless you do something that requires you to go in.
SIRE
player, 110 posts
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 19:55
  • msg #159

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 158):

Yeah -- Especially after the armor, I think we're opening a door and figuring out if it is worth going in.

In the spirit of searching after clearing the floor, we go check out the next room, clockwise.
The Mists
GM, 104 posts
Sat 5 Dec 2020
at 04:22
  • msg #160

Re: Into the mists

The double doors to this room have dusty panes of stained glass set into them. Designs in the glass resemble windmills.

The dusty, cobweb-filled master bedroom (area 12A) has burgundy drapes covering the windows. Furnishings include a four-poster bed with embroidered curtains and tattered gossamer veils, a matching pair of empty wardrobes, a vanity with a wood-framed mirror and jewelry box (see “Treasure”), and a padded chair. A rotting tiger-skin rug lies on the floor in front of the fireplace, which has a dust-covered portrait of Gustav and Elisabeth Durst hanging above it. A web-filled parlor in the southwest corner contains a table and two chairs. Resting on the dusty tablecloth is an empty porcelain bowl and a matching jug.

A door facing the foot of the bed has a full-length mirror mounted on it. The door opens to reveal an empty, dust-choked closet (area 12B). A door in the parlor leads to an outside balcony (area 12C).

Dumbwaiter
A dumbwaiter in the corner of the west wall has a button on the wall next to it. Pressing the button rings the tiny bell in area 4A.

Treasure
The jewelry box on the vanity is made of silver with gold filigree (worth 75 gp). It contains three gold rings (worth 25 gp each) and a thin platinum necklace with a topaz pendant (worth 750 gp).
SIRE
player, 111 posts
Sat 5 Dec 2020
at 04:39
  • msg #161

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 160):

OK. I want to search this room, but also want to take extra special precautions around touching or taking anything valuable to guard against anything apparating. If nothing does, we loot and move on to the ghosts room to search, then the nursery, then the closet, then the bathroom.
The Mists
GM, 105 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 02:48
  • msg #162

Re: Into the mists

While investigating the closet, the broom spring to life and attacks Inmondo.

Roll initiative

Broom:15

Roll for all characters and tell where they are
SIRE
player, 112 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 04:28
  • msg #163

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 162):

As Imondo behind searching the closet, Edwin notices the broom begin to move. Too late, he shouts a warning to Imondo as he prepares Fire Bolt for a clean shot. The broom catches Imondo in the ribs for 6 damage, knocking the wind from him. Sen, without an option, casts Toll the Dead and hopes that the necrotic damage affects the construct (will save, d8 dmg). Imondo disengage and moves behind Edwin, triggering Edwins reaction (incoming), and stops. Ritin steps into the breach and takes the Dodge action.
SIRE
player, 113 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 04:30
  • msg #164

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 163):

Edwin attack 22, dmg 10
The Mists
GM, 106 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 14:06
  • msg #165

Re: Into the mists

The broom succeeds its save (assuming 17 succeeds. It is susceptible to Toll the Dead, btw).

The forebolt strikes its haft near the top and you see it char and smoke a 6" section.

It swings at Ritin twice. The first attack clocks Ritin in the head (6 damage), which would have been a knockout blow, but the damage haft breaks. The second swing, though deft, is parried.

(Attack 21 after disadvantage, would have been Nat 20)
SIRE
player, 114 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 18:34
  • msg #166

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 165):

Imondo, blocked from doing much that is useful, moves to the south of Edwin and readies an action to attack if the broom gets close.

The broom punishes Ritin for stepping into the closet (6 damage)

Sen casts Toll the Dead (d12) on the broom again.

Edwin readies an action to take a shot on the broom again if he gets a clear shot.

Ritin affords him that opportunity by dropping prone, then standing back up--after which he attacks the broom (if it is still sweeping).

Sen Toll the Dead damage (if applicable): 12
Edwin attack 16, 2
Ritin main attack: 11, 7
Riting PAM attack: 7, 4
The Mists
GM, 107 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 18:58
  • msg #167

Re: Into the mists

I like there to be a lot of latitude when it comes to how characters cast spells, so what does it look like when Sen casts Toll the Dead? Also, what does it look like when this broom is destroyed by Toll the Dead (failed save, 10 dam)?

After you decide what tolling the dead looks like, try to apply the Barovian twist to it. That is to say that spells manifest in a macabre way here (Fog cloud: Misty, harmless claws form in the fog; Gust of wind: A ghastly moan accompanies the summoned wind; Mage hand: The summoned hand is skeletal; etc.).

The only other eventful thing that happens on this floor is that you discover a secret staircase between the animated armor room, and the nursemaid's bedroom (no the nursery). The stairs lead up. It is very dusty and cobwebby.
SIRE
player, 115 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 19:10
  • msg #168

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 167):

I think, under non-Barovian circumstances, I like the idea of it sounding like a single, mournful church-bell. In Barovia, however, I think it sounds like a distant organ building a chord:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prysOTv-tkY

We loot, lock ourselves into the master, and take a short rest. Going to pre-emptively roll HD for Imondo and Ritin to figure out who Ritin needs to top-up.

Ritin: 7
Imondo: 8

Both are back to full if the rest goes through.

After that, Edwin casts ritual detect magic and we go up the stairs
The Mists
GM, 108 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 19:19
  • msg #169

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
I think, under non-Barovian circumstances, I like the idea of it sounding like a single, mournful church-bell. In Barovia, however, I think it sounds like a distant organ building a chord:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prysOTv-tkY


except it never resolves!!!

Ok, you short rest. during the short rest you think you might hear the faint sound of children laughing upstairs. Or weeping?

Don't forget to recover a 1st level slot for Edwin, if that's the first time you've short rested/arcane recoveried today.
SIRE
player, 116 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 19:32
  • msg #170

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 169):

Got it -- He's back to a full clip.

Imondo takes the lead up the stairs, followed by Sen, followed by Edwin (detecting magic), followed by Ritin.
SIRE
player, 117 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 19:33
  • msg #171

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 170):

Oh -- And Sen casts Guidance on Imondo since he is in the front.
The Mists
GM, 109 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 19:35
  • msg #172

Re: Into the mists

Ok, Inmondo's focus is sharpened by the feeling of being watched.

Will post shortly.
The Mists
GM, 110 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 21:26
  • msg #173

Re: Into the mists

This bare hall is choked with dust and cobwebs.

(See text)
SIRE
player, 118 posts
Mon 7 Dec 2020
at 21:46
  • msg #174

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 173):

We search the south door, listen at it, open it, let Edwin peep to see if there are any more animated baddies, and then search the room.

I'll roll two searches pre-emptively:

Door -- 13:45, Today: SIRE rolled 22,11,8,8 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 17,10,2,2.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.
Room -- 13:45, Today: SIRE rolled 18,11,17,11 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 13,10,11,5.
The Mists
GM, 111 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 00:02
  • msg #175

Re: Into the mists

Spare Bedroom

This dust-choked room contains a slender bed, a nightstand, a small iron stove, a writing desk with a stool, an empty wardrobe, and a rocking chair. A smiling doll in a lacy yellow dress sits in the northern window box, cobwebs draping it like a wedding veil.
The Mists
GM, 112 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 01:59
  • msg #176

Re: Into the mists

Storage Room

This dusty chamber is packed with old furniture (chairs, coat racks, standing mirrors, dress mannequins, and the like), all draped in dusty white sheets. Near an iron stove, underneath one of the sheets, is an unlocked wooden trunk containing skeletal remains wrapped in a tattered bedsheet stained with dry blood.
SIRE
player, 119 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 02:02
  • msg #177

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 176):

We search the room and investigate the body in the trunk.

18:02, Today: SIRE rolled 9,16,15,10 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 4,15,9,4.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.
SIRE
player, 120 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 17:38
  • msg #178

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 177):

Sen Medicine Check: 23 (Help and Guidance)

If nothing eventful, on to the next clockwise room
The Mists
GM, 113 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 17:51
  • msg #179

Re: Into the mists

You determine that the body is probably that of a young woman who was stabbed to death.
The Mists
GM, 114 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 17:53
  • msg #180

Re: Into the mists

I believe that one is another spare bedroom, nothing eventful, except that in the room next to it, and the last door from the main room, you can faintly hear the playing/weeping children sounds.

The door to get into that room is locked with a padlock.
SIRE
player, 121 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 18:55
  • msg #181

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 180):

Sen checks to see if the iron key from downstairs fits the lock, but does not turn it.

If it fits, he turns to the party and whispers: "We can't handle much more than we've seen."

Ritin: "There are kids in there."

Sen: "No. It sounds like there are kids in there. There were kids outside, remember?"

Ritin: "We can't leave without knowing."

Sen: "Are you ready to die to know?"

Edwin: "I already have."

Ritin nods and starts to open his mouth, but Imondo holds up a finger and motions for the group to follow him. They do, and he leads them quietly down to the room with the cabinet full of crossbows.

Imondo: "We should be as ready as we can be, but I will not abandon children as I was abandoned."

Sen: "Remember that we are in this house, and Edwin has died, due to our heroic sympathies. We must focus on long-term victory or escape. By the sound of Edwin's experience, they are the same path."

Imondo looks for a fireplace poker or similar implement to break the door of the cabinet open. Assuming we find one and get the crossbow(s), we would return to the attic, take up positions to fire (any non-proficient crossbow wielder would be the one to work the lock) and then we would open the door.
The Mists
GM, 115 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 22:34
  • msg #182

Re: Into the mists

Here’s the official text from the book:

This room contains a bricked-up window flanked by two dusty, wood-framed beds sized for children. Closer to the door is a toy chest with windmills painted on its sides and a dollhouse that’s a perfect replica of the dreary edifice in which you stand. These furnishings are draped in cobwebs. Lying in the middle of the floor are two small skeletons wearing tattered but familiar clothing. The smaller of the two cradles a stuffed doll that you also recognize.

(Sorry for mailing it in)
SIRE
player, 122 posts
Tue 8 Dec 2020
at 22:41
  • msg #183

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 182):

Any magic that Edwin detects?

If not, Ritin uses Divine Sense.

Sen waits to hear if those turn up anything.
The Mists
GM, 116 posts
Wed 9 Dec 2020
at 15:31
  • msg #184

Re: Into the mists

Detect Magic doesn't ping.
Divine Sense: You feel the presence of undead in this room, but do not sense evil. On the scale from noxious odor to heavenly music, it is mournful bells.
SIRE
player, 123 posts
Wed 9 Dec 2020
at 17:09
  • msg #185

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 184):

Ritin lowers his crossbow, and motions for everyone else to be at ease. Everyone but Sen does, but looks confused in doing so. Ritin cautiously walks into the room, takes a deep breath, and says: "Hello? I know you are here."
The Mists
GM, 117 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 15:24
  • msg #186

Re: Into the mists

You see a little apparate a few feet away from her corpse. You recognize her as the little girl from outside the house. Her demeanor is different though. She seems like a little girl who is afraid, but is trying to act brave and in charge. "Who are you?"
SIRE
player, 124 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 15:47
  • msg #187

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 186):

Ritin kneels to get on her level, but doesn't move forward: "You don't remember asking us for help outside?"
The Mists
GM, 118 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 16:28
  • msg #188

Re: Into the mists

She looks sad, but indignant (petulant, I guess), and says, "That's not us! It's the house... It... tricks people. It looks like us to trick people. People like you."
SIRE
player, 125 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 16:31
  • msg #189

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 188):

Sen relaxes some.

Ritin nods and says: "Then you know the house told us there is a monster in the basement, maybe? And you might know some other things about the house that we don't know, too, like why the house is acting this way?"
The Mists
GM, 119 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 16:44
  • msg #190

Re: Into the mists

"There IS a monster in the basement. That's why mommy and daddy locked us in our room, so it wouldn't get us. That's what they said. Maybe the monster got them and that's why they never came back." She glances at their corpses, "There's a secret passage in the attic that goes all the way down to the basement." She points to the dollhouse which is a perfect replica of the entire house. A little ghost boy appears and starts playing with phantom toy soldiers on the floor.

(you remind her of your other question) "The house tricks people. And kills people." (I know this is not an answer)
SIRE
player, 126 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 16:58
  • msg #191

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 190):

Ritin: "Well, to answer your question, we're some men who thought they were coming to help some children, or a family, but it appears we have been tricked and that we are too late -- Unless there is another way to help you?"
The Mists
GM, 120 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 17:04
  • msg #192

Re: Into the mists

The girl shrugs and says, "Just don't leave, that would make us happy." She sits down and starts playing with her brother.

A couple caveats, the ghost children don't necessarily know what's going on.

Sen and/or Ritin would know that ghosts and other undead may be put to rest by fulfilling unfinished business. Your characters can roll a religion or history checks to for clues about how to do that. If asked the children don't know anything about that sort of thing.
SIRE
player, 127 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 18:07
  • msg #193

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 192):

Ritin looks over his shoulder to Sen, and Sen steps forward:

Surprising Ritin, somewhat, Sen says: "If we stay with you for a while, will you help keep us safe from the house?"

OOC: Sen and Ritin have garbage knowledge checks. Edwin has a +6 in all of them. I'm going to roll for all three, but you are the DM.

Sen (Religion): 9
Ritin (History): 7
Edwin (History): 26 (crit)
The Mists
GM, 121 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 19:34
  • msg #194

Re: Into the mists

During his arcane studies, Edwin read a fictional book about monster hunter brothers named Samus and Deanuel. It was one of those books that people study because they are said to have nuggets of truth. Having been to the other side, he feels that it was more accurate than not.

There were many methods they used to exorcise ghosts and the like:

Burning the remains
Returning remains to burial place
Killing their murderer
Destroying an item dear to them or instrumental to their death
Returning such an item to a place or person
Sanctifying the location they haunt

Also, just good old fashion fighting the undead, especially with blessed or otherwise magical weapon.

Edwin can also sense that if he destroyed them, they would be whisked away to his benefactor.

Edwin also knows that whereas many undead are corrupted and necessarily evil, ghosts are the same alignment they were in life. Same with revenants.

Sen feels these ones are probably lawful good.
SIRE
player, 128 posts
Thu 10 Dec 2020
at 21:09
  • msg #195

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 194):

OOC: Missed this question. Trying to figure out if this is a safe harbor for a long rest or not.

Sen: "If we stay with you for a while, will you help keep us safe from the house?"

Edwin then tries to surreptitiously figure out how they died and if they know they are dead with questions like:

"Do you want to show us around the house?"
"How long ago did your parents lock the door?"
"Tell me about the things in your room." <-- On that one, he sees if they avoid talking about the bones or if the acknowledge them
The Mists
GM, 122 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 00:53
  • msg #196

Re: Into the mists

“I think if you stay up here and don’t do anything to the house, it won’t do anything to you, except watch you starve to death.”
She glances at her corpse.
SIRE
player, 129 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 01:42
  • msg #197

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 196):

Imondo looks heartbroken. Sen grimaces. Edwin starts to say something, but Ritin beats him to it.

Ritin: "I'm so sorry. I wish there was something I could do for you."

Edwin: "There is something we can do for them, but I would not do it unless they chose it. Children -- may we confer in private?"

OOC: Privacy is only required to get these words coming out of Ritin's mouth, rather than Edwin's. If privacy is not achievable, Edwin would say something much like the following.

Ritin: "Children...my friend Edwin believes himself to have died recently, and I believe him. In fact, he died downstairs--falling victim to the malice of the house. As his spirit left his body, an unknown force intervened and saved him from being captured, tormented, or enslaved by the master of these lands. He was sent back on the condition that any souls that he freed would be sent to the force that intervened. He has loosed one soul since then, and it departed towards the southwest, in the direction we assume to be towards the residence of his new benefactor, called the Amber Temple.

We do not know anything about this benefactor, save that the entity told Edwin (that is his name) that souls sent to the Amber Temple may choose to serve the new master or end their long suffering. We do not know if the benefactor is good, evil, or beyond those concepts. But we know how to send you there, if you wish. We can free you from this house, and this room, and the memory of parents who, intentionally or by virtue of their not prioritizing your care above their...other interests...left you to starve.

We can free you through violence, but would rather attempt to help you come to rest in a more peaceful way--because we like you. The most obvious option seems to be giving both of you a proper burial. If Edwin buries you, we believe you will be whisked away to his benefactor. We do not know if that would end well for you, but we do believe it would be better to take that chance than to be bound to the whims and torments of the Master of Borovia for all time. He...Well, we have found evidence that he delighted in the torture of your father, and we would rather that he not have a chance to torment you.

If taking your chances at the Amber Temple does not sound appealing, we can also attempt to give you a proper burial at someone else's hand. We know less about what would happen in that case, but we would pray for your well being.

May we attempt to put your souls to rest and, if so, would you prefer to chance the Amber Temple?"
The Mists
GM, 123 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 02:17
  • msg #198

Re: Into the mists

"Oh, I would not like to go to the Amber Temple! That is where daddy said Mr. Strahd got his power. Daddy said he would go there someday too. It sounds scary.

"Rest sounds good though. I think that if that happened we wouldn't feel hungry anymore. I don't want you to hurt me Mr. Edwin. I don't think the house will let you out to gives us a burial, though."

She looks sad.

"But you can stay here with us!"
SIRE
player, 130 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 04:11
  • msg #199

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 198):

Edwin falls silent at the revelation about the Amber Temple.

Ritin: "Well, the house hasn't been able to stop us so far. Is there a place members of your family are buried? A tomb by the family windmill perhaps?"

Sen: "We will stay the evening with you children to prepare to deal with the house."

Sen and company try to get a long rest in.
The Mists
GM, 124 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 04:27
  • msg #200

Re: Into the mists

“Oh yeah! We have a windmill, I’ve seen it! But not tomb, there.”

She looks like she’s holding something back.

(Assuming you press her) “There may be a family tomb under the house, I saw laborers carrying stones, and... coffins. But we don’t want to go down there with the monster.”

(You get a long rest in you may ask more questions, but they tell you they will watch you while you sleep since they don’t sleep.
SIRE
player, 131 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 19:37
  • msg #201

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 200):

Ritin says: "We will go down for you, and if we find the tombs we will come back for your bodies to lay them to rest and end your hunger. We will leave them here in case something bad happens to us, so that anyone who comes after us can try again."

Edwin, upon hearing this, starts writing in one of the leather books from downstairs. He writes a description of what they know about the house, and the children, and that the four of them descended into the basement to look for the monster and lay the children to rest. He then rips the page from the book and asks the girl if she can read. If she can, he holds it up for her and says: "I will leave this at the top of the stairs." If she can't, he reads it aloud to her and then leaves it at the top of the stairs.

Imondo asks about the doll house, and the toys, to try and give the children a pleasant experience. Ritin joins in after a while. Everyone takes a long rest.

OOC: I can't think of any questions that I feel I'm likely to get an answer to, but here goes...

- Tell me about the windmill. Where is it? What is its significance?
- Tell me about your father and mother, and what you know about them and Strahd
- Tell me about other adventurers who have come and what happened to them
- Tell me about visitors to the house
- Tell me how long ago you died
- Tell me about Strahd
- Tell me legends and stories that children share about Barovia
The Mists
GM, 125 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 21:31
  • msg #202

Re: Into the mists

I'm going to mail this in a bit.

SIRE:
- Tell me about the windmill. Where is it? What is its significance?

It's out of town somewhere. (she describes what it looks like, not important at this moment)

SIRE:
- Tell me about your father and mother, and what you know about them and Strahd

They can be nice sometime, but sometimes mean.

SIRE:
- Tell me about other adventurers who have come and what happened to them

Hmm. I don't remember.

SIRE:
- Tell me about visitors to the house

-unhelpful answers-

SIRE:
- Tell me how long ago you died

Um, yesterday? Maybe 1,000 days ago. Definitely more than yesterday.

SIRE:
- Tell me about Strahd

He's like the King?

SIRE:
- Tell me legends and stories that children share about Barovia

+1 advantage to Barovia history check
SIRE
player, 132 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 21:43
  • msg #203

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 202):

Ok. Done. We rest and then we go, I suppose?

Does the dollhouse look like it might have been built with a basement?
The Mists
GM, 126 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 21:59
  • msg #204

Re: Into the mists

Roll a persuasion check with advantage. DC 11
Just one check.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:01, Fri 11 Dec 2020.
SIRE
player, 133 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 22:31
  • msg #205

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 204):

21 or, if no mod, 15
The Mists
GM, 127 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 22:34
  • msg #206

Re: Into the mists

"There's a secret way down in the attic."

You inspect the dollhouse and in the attic you find a secret passage in the storage you searched (where you found the dead woman in the trunk).

When you go there, it seems unlikely that you would have missed the secret opening before.

You go in and find a spiral staircase that goes down through every floor and into the crypt.
SIRE
player, 134 posts
Fri 11 Dec 2020
at 22:49
  • msg #207

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 206):

I am interested in whether the doll house has a "map" of the basement.
The Mists
GM, 128 posts
Sat 12 Dec 2020
at 06:16
  • msg #208

Re: Into the mists

It does not
SIRE
player, 135 posts
Sat 12 Dec 2020
at 23:50
  • msg #209

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 208):

OK. In that case, we go--promising to return for the children's corpses if we find a tomb for them.
SIRE
player, 136 posts
Mon 14 Dec 2020
at 20:33
  • msg #210

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 209):

12:33, Today: SIRE rolled 18,4 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 18,4.  Edwin Post-Attic Rest Portents.
The Mists
GM, 129 posts
Mon 14 Dec 2020
at 21:19
  • msg #211

Re: Into the mists

quote:
DUNGEON FEATURES

The dungeon level underneath Death House is carved out of earth, clay, and rock. The tunnels are 4 feet wide by 7 feet high with timber braces at 5-foot intervals. Rooms are 8 feet tall and supported by thick wooden posts with crossbeams. Characters without darkvision must provide their own light sources, as the dungeon is unlit.

As the characters explore the dungeon, they see centuries-old human footprints in the earthen floor leading every which way.

quote:
The wooden spiral staircase from the attic ends here. A narrow tunnel stretches southward before branching east and west.
Ghostly Chanting

From the moment they arrive in the dungeon, the characters can hear an eerie, incessant chant echoing throughout. It’s impossible to gauge where the sound is coming from. They can’t discern its words.


You are in a tunnel section. There is about 5' of tunnel before it comes to a T (you can go left or right).
SIRE
player, 137 posts
Mon 14 Dec 2020
at 21:37
  • msg #212

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 211):

Ok -- Edwin and Sen both get some Light going. I want to follow a "right-hand" rule as we explore. That's when you pretend you are walking with your right hand on the wall and not taking it off. (This is a sure way out of a maze with a single floor).

Imondo would go first, going very carefully and searching for dangers and traps along the way. Sen would have Guidance up on him. Walking order is Imondo (light source), Sen, Edwin, Ritin (light source).
The Mists
GM, 130 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 14:24
  • msg #213

Re: Into the mists

Ok, after about about 10 or 15 feet, (I don't recall), the tunnel comes to a crossroad where you can go straight, left, or right. You go right (because the right hand RULES!) and see two doors (see email).
SIRE
player, 138 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 15:47
  • msg #214

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 213):

Imondo checks the door on the right for traps and, if he does find any, tries to open it.
The Mists
GM, 131 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 18:17
  • msg #215

Re: Into the mists

I made a mistake. They are not doors (per se), they are large stone slabs. One says Rosavalda Durst and the other says Thornboldt Durst. It will take an athletics check to move one.
SIRE
player, 139 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 19:56
  • msg #216

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 215):

Ok -- Sen casts Guidance on Ritin, then Ritin tries to move the stone slab on the right with Imondo's help. Edwin tucks into the little entry so he isn't exposed, and Sen guards the rear.

11:55, Today: SIRE rolled 17,6,1 using 1d20+4,1d20+4,1d4. Ritin Athletics w/ Imondo Help (Adv.) + Guidance.

Result: 18
The Mists
GM, 132 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 20:28
  • msg #217

Re: Into the mists

It slides aside and reveals an empty coffin.
SIRE
player, 140 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 21:34
  • msg #218

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 217):

Ok -- We to the same to the other door: 26.

Assuming nothing jumps out at us, we return up the stairs to collect the bones, say goodbye to the children (if this works), put the bones in the coffins, seal them up, run back upstairs to check to see if the children's ghosts are gone, and then search the attic room now that it is safe:

13:34, Today: SIRE rolled 21,10,18,19 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 16,9,12,13.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

21 for Sen perception, 19 for Edwin investigation.
The Mists
GM, 133 posts
Thu 17 Dec 2020
at 22:30
  • msg #219

Re: Into the mists

Quick post: it works, you feels a sense of peace, you all get inspiration.
SIRE
player, 141 posts
Fri 18 Dec 2020
at 00:17
  • msg #220

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 219):

Nothing in the attic, I take it?
The Mists
GM, 134 posts
Fri 18 Dec 2020
at 04:10
  • msg #221

Re: Into the mists

Nothing more of interest.
The Mists
GM, 135 posts
Fri 18 Dec 2020
at 04:11
  • msg #222

Re: Into the mists

No ghost kiddies.
SIRE
player, 142 posts
Fri 18 Dec 2020
at 16:03
  • msg #223

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 222):

Ok, then back to a careful search using the right hand rule
The Mists
GM, 137 posts
Sat 23 Jan 2021
at 16:15
  • msg #224

Re: Into the mists

This room contains a plain wooden table flanked by long benches. Moldy humanoid bones lie strewn on the dirt floor.
SIRE
player, 143 posts
Mon 25 Jan 2021
at 22:45
  • msg #225

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 224):

Ok -- If the room looks "clear" we stay to the right, watching for traps and such along the way.

14:44, Today: SIRE rolled 9,2,12,11 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 4,1,6,5.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Imondo crit missed (second roll) but his modifer is wrong. It was actually a 7, per his char sheet. I have to update the macro.
SIRE
player, 144 posts
Mon 25 Jan 2021
at 22:46
  • msg #226

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 225):

Sorry -- AND Imondo missing is probably the most important, since he is in the lead.
The Mists
GM, 138 posts
Thu 28 Jan 2021
at 20:05
  • msg #227

Re: Into the mists

Shockingly, a 12 is good enough for Ritin to notice that in the alcove in the east side of the room there are some fallen rocks, but among them seems to be some rock that is unnaturally smooth, but curved. Almost like a giant, long, fat stone turd, kind of wrapped up with the stones.
SIRE
player, 145 posts
Sat 30 Jan 2021
at 00:08
  • msg #228

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 227):

Ritin points it out to the others, and Sen then re-casts his light over in that direction for a better look.
The Mists
GM, 139 posts
Sat 30 Jan 2021
at 05:37
  • msg #229

Re: Into the mists

You toss a coin (I believe light is a touch spell, right?). And the odd stone undulates, then uncoils and slams down in the coin. The end of it opens in a otherworldly maw (go ahead a look up the picture of a grick).
SIRE
player, 146 posts
Mon 1 Feb 2021
at 16:53
  • msg #230

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 229):

We kill it.

08:50, Today: SIRE rolled 21,24,19,17 using 1d20+2,1d20+4,1d20+1,1d20+1 with rolls of 19,20,18,16.  Group Initiative {S,I,R,E}.

So that's

Imondo (24)
Edwin (22--forgot Alert)
Sen (21)
Ritin (19)
The Mists
GM, 140 posts
Mon 1 Feb 2021
at 21:02
  • msg #231

Re: Into the mists

The grick rolls a modified 20.

Everyone but Ritin goes.
Grick AC 14.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:03, Mon 01 Feb 2021.
SIRE
player, 147 posts
Mon 1 Feb 2021
at 21:50
  • msg #232

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 231):

OOC: Here's what I thought about doing, but the back-and-forth of the forum dissuaded me from. Imondo flips a table on its side or just pushes it (depends on table orientation) to block the grick in the alcove. Sen rushes to help hold the table in place. Edwin moves up to start shooting through any gap in the boards. Riting moves up to help hold it in place, then Sen starts Tolling Dead. Instead....

Imondo moves up to the alcove, attacks with martial arts and his Qstaff, then steps out of the way for the others: 11 Damage

Edwin fires a fire bolt at the grick, singeing it: 3 damage, 14 total

Sen Tolls the Dead, and then moves between Edwin and the grick: 2 damage (if any), 16 total (or 14 if none)
The Mists
GM, 141 posts
Mon 1 Feb 2021
at 23:24
  • msg #233

Re: Into the mists

If you did the table thing, I probably would have said that Inmondo could do that and impose disadvantage on the Grick's attacks, but probably only for one turn as the Grick tears it apart.

Inmondo beats at the wormlike creature, but his blows don't seem as effective you would hope (resistance to B/P/S dam from nonmagical attacks). (6 dam)

The firebolt stings it (3 dam).

It resists being tolled.

The grick's face-end opens as four spiked tentacles peal back revealing a beak, it hurls its tentacles at Inmondo, who barely dodges out of the way (you have such good AC!).
SIRE
player, 148 posts
Mon 1 Feb 2021
at 23:45
  • msg #234

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 233):

Ritin moves up to attack, then steps to the other side of the enclosure to leave an open path for Edwin. Misses with the main swing, but hits with the PAM for (after resist) 2 damage.

Imondo repeats his previous turn, missing with his Qstaff and hitting with martial arts for (after resist) 4 damage.

Edwin sends another fire bolt, hitting for 4 damage (19 cumulative.

Sen again attempts to Toll the Dead: 5 damage, 24 cumulative (if hit)
The Mists
GM, 142 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 20:32
  • msg #235

Re: Into the mists

Sorry, I mist this post.

Ok, you keep tearing it up, including toll the dead.

It strikes out at Inmondo again, him being the last one to phiscally attack and doing consistent damage.

Att: 24 (crit)
Dam: 11

It follows up with a bite attack. If 11 is enough to down Inmondo (I assume yes), then it is a hit for two failed death saves.

If the tentacle attack did not down Inmondo, then it is a miss.
SIRE
player, 149 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 21:36
  • msg #236

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 235):

Imondo is down.

Ritin repeats his turn: 3 damage

Edwin repeats his turn: 6 damage

Sen casts Spare the Dying on Imondo
The Mists
GM, 143 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 21:59
  • msg #237

Re: Into the mists

You fell the grick and Inmondo falls limply to the ground where he is stabilized.

Ok, I would like to use the injury table to grind down your characters and your hope.

I am still kind of mulling over how I want to do this, if it is every time you drop to 0 hp, or what.

The way I was thinking of doing it was to have you roll a con save DC 10, or half of the damage taken, whichever is higher, then to roll on the injury table (DMG 272). I am thinking that going down from a critical calls for disadvantage on the con roll, or disadvantage on the injury roll.

Technically, with Inmondo, he was critted to take him down, then critted again from the bite. I am not always going to have baddies attack you when you go down, but in this particular case the grick only gets a bite attack on the same target if it hits with the tentacle attack, so it made sense for it to take the second attack.

What are your thoughts?
SIRE
player, 150 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 22:09
  • msg #238

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 237):

Eh. It's one of those things that seems cool, but mechanically increases the CR of every fight, both within the fight (have to be more risk averse) and downstream. It's also one of those rules that has a one-sided impact -- Monsters do not suffer from these effects.

Whatever you want to do. The only reason I didn't give magical healing last round was that Ritin had a better chance of doing some damage than Sen did.
SIRE
player, 151 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 22:12
  • msg #239

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 238):

As an idea for leveling the playing field, one option would be to determine whether the monster in question has any lingering injuries at the point of combat. Probably only matters for the options that are a disaster, but it gets complicated to think through what the accrued probability is for a monster to have a lingering injury,
SIRE
player, 152 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 22:51
  • msg #240

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 239):

Crud. I forgot about portent...could saved Imondo the HP
The Mists
GM, 144 posts
Wed 3 Feb 2021
at 23:16
  • msg #241

Re: Into the mists

Or to encourage avoiding fights. Either fight and risk injury, or leave an enemy at your back. I am going with milestone leveling, by the way.

One thing to consider, is that the playing field is out of level to begin with because monsters die at zero, but players can use zero as an almost infinite net that you can bounce back from with a bonus action healing word. It gets silly when players drop repeatedly and get back up with 1 hp.

I think I am going to stick with it, let me think about it. I am also good with the potential of lingering injuries on monsters. Maybe have you roll a luck check. I like the idea of everything in Barovia to go in with damage.

By the way, there is a character in this campaign with a fully functional prosthetic, so even that isn’t necessarily hobbling.
The Mists
GM, 145 posts
Fri 5 Feb 2021
at 20:48
  • msg #242

Re: Into the mists

Ok, roll a con save DC 10, with disadvantage for Inmondo, then roll a d20 if you fail.
SIRE
player, 153 posts
Mon 8 Feb 2021
at 17:39
  • msg #243

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 242):

Unmodified 2--not even going to look up the mod.

Injury roll: 18.
The Mists
GM, 146 posts
Mon 8 Feb 2021
at 20:39
  • msg #244

Re: Into the mists

After healing, minor but permanent scars, go ahead choose what that will be.

A 4-foot-diameter well shaft with a 3-foot-high stone lip descends 30 feet to a water-filled cistern. A wooden bucket hangs from a rope-and-pulley mechanism bolted to the crossbeams above the well.

Five side rooms once served as quarters for senior cultists. Each contains a wood-framed bed with a moldy straw mattress and a wooden chest to hold personal belongings. Each chest is secured with a rusty iron padlock that can be picked with thieves’ tools and a successful DC 15 Dexterity check.
SIRE
player, 154 posts
Mon 8 Feb 2021
at 22:19
  • msg #245

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 244):

Imondo gets healed for 1 point by Ritin. Ritin now leads the group. He has a scar over his heart.

OOC: Imondo is actually my stand-in thief....

Sen throws some debris down the well with light case on it, while Edwin and Ritin stand ready to shoot anything that is revealed and hostile.

Imondo checks each chest for traps and etc. and then attempts to pick each of the locks (but only after shooting each chest with a crossbow).

Thieves tools (yes, proficient and on CS) checks, Sen casting Guidance on each check:

14:18, Today: SIRE rolled 17 using 1d20+1d4+6.
14:18, Today: SIRE rolled 11,16,19,27 using 1d20+1d4+6,1d20+1d4+6,1d20+1d4+6,1d20+1d4+6.  Imondo Lock Pick Checks, plus guidance.

That's chests 2, 3, 4, and 5 opened.
The Mists
GM, 147 posts
Mon 8 Feb 2021
at 23:11
  • msg #246

Re: Into the mists

25B. This room’s chest contains three moss agates (worth 10 gp each) in a folded piece of black cloth.

25C. This room’s chest contains a black leather eyepatch with a carnelian (worth 50 gp) sewn into it.

25D. This room’s chest contains an ivory hairbrush with silver bristles (worth 25 gp).

25E. This room’s chest contains a silvered shortsword (worth 110 gp).

(25a is not opened)
SIRE
player, 155 posts
Mon 8 Feb 2021
at 23:17
  • msg #247

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 246):

We take those things. Imondo equips the silvered short sword.

OOC: I am going to true-up inventory/gold at the end.

If there was nothing exciting down the well, then we stick to the right-hand rule.
The Mists
GM, 148 posts
Fri 19 Feb 2021
at 19:36
  • msg #248

Re: Into the mists

You find a room similar to the last you were in, but smaller and no well. It has alcoves like the previous setup, but they are just big enough to fit a moldy straw sleeping mat each. You do not find anything interesting.

You continue on and join up with the original hallway, which following to the right, would take you back up the way you came. (so there is effectively an island of wall that could be circled using the right hand rule. you will have to take a left at some point to branch out)

Beginning at the location closest to the first hall you find several dead-end branches that lead to more crypts. The first two were open and do not contain stone biers, nor coffins.

23A. Empty Crypt
The blank stone slab meant to seal this crypt leans against a nearby wall. The crypt is empty.

23B. Walter’s Crypt
The stone slab meant to seal this crypt leans against a nearby wall. Etched into it is the name Walter Durst. The crypt is empty.

23C. Gustav’s Crypt
The stone slab is etched with the name Gustav Durst. (closed)

23D. Elisabeth’s Crypt
The stone slab is etched with the name Elisabeth Durst. (closed)

You can open the slabs like you did with Thorn and Rose, I won't make you roll, you have established you can do it with time effort and guidance.
SIRE
player, 156 posts
Sat 20 Feb 2021
at 21:09
  • msg #249

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 248):

Ritin is interested, but Sen refuses him and says that they dead are meant to rest and that he will not stand idly by while a grave is defiled without a specific and good reason. Ritin respects his wishes.

I suppose we will go through the room that had the grick, and continue following the right hand rule in the southern hallway. We proceed with caution, Ritin in front, then Sen, then Edwin, then Imondo.
SIRE
player, 157 posts
Mon 22 Feb 2021
at 05:12
  • msg #250

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 249):

Ok. I'm leveled.

Imondo is at full HP (16), but it cost 2 HD and 4 HP from Ritin's Lay on Hands pool. Not much else happens other than that he gets access to Ki and his speed increases.

I don't think that this would change the marching order, now that Ritin has the best AC (19) as a function of taking the Defense combat style. He has 6 Lay on Hands points remaining.

Edwin took Phantasmal Force and Mind Spike as his L2 spells, but does not have them memorized, obvs. He has 4 L1 spell slots and 2 L2 slots remaining (or 3 L1 slots if he doesn't get it until after the long rest). He has Catapult, Detect Magic, Mage Armor, Magic Missile, Shield, and Sleep prepared.

Sen picks up Channel Divinity with the Grave Domain. He has 3 1st level slots remaining (or 2 if he doesn't get the slot until after a long rest). He still has Bane, False Life, Healing Word, and Guiding Bolt memorized.
SIRE
player, 158 posts
Mon 22 Feb 2021
at 19:57
  • msg #251

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 250):

Standing in the ghoul trap, Ritin yells: "Fall back!"

Initiative order: Imondo, Edwin, Ritin, Sen, Ghouls

We all fall back to the grick room and ready actions:

1) Imondo steps into the center square of the south doorway of the grick room and takes the Dodge action.
2) Edwin moves past Imondo, climbs onto the table for a better vantage (if it looks sturdy) and readies Flame Bolt
3) Ritin takes the Disengage action and moves back into the west square of the south doorway of the grick room
4) Sen moves back to the east square of the southern doorway and readies an action to cast Toll the Dead when a ghoul attacks.
SIRE
player, 159 posts
Mon 22 Feb 2021
at 21:26
  • msg #252

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 251):

Edwin casts Fire Bolt at G1 and hits it for 4 damage.

Ritin may get an OA as G1 approaches from PAM?
SIRE
player, 160 posts
Mon 22 Feb 2021
at 22:10
  • msg #253

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 252):

Ritin critically hits G1 in a trivial place for 7 damage.
SIRE
player, 161 posts
Fri 26 Feb 2021
at 05:05
  • msg #254

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 253):

Imondo attacks G1 (18) for 8 damage (19 total) and spends a ki to perform a Flurry of Blows (missing both, one with a crit miss -- that really screwed up my plan).

Edwin shoots a Fire Bolt, and would have crit missed, except he uses his portent (18) to do 10 (!) damage.

If G1 does not drop, Ritin readies an action to heal Imondo. If G1 does drop, Ritin moves into G1s square and takes the Dodge action.

Sen casts Toll the Dead on G2 for either 3 or 0 damage.
The Mists
GM, 149 posts
Fri 26 Feb 2021
at 16:41
  • msg #255

Re: Into the mists

OK, I decided to roll for ghoul hp, which makes it so Inmondo killed G1, if you would like to rescind your flurry, that is fine, but only if that is what you would have done originally.

The Firebolt then strikes G2 for 10 damage. It has only 6 hp left. It critically succeeds on toll the dead.

Do you want to stick with dodging in the G1 square?

G1: dead
G2: 6hp
G3: 18hp
G4: 16hp
SIRE
player, 162 posts
Fri 26 Feb 2021
at 18:49
  • msg #256

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 255):

Flurry would not have occurred, actually, because the plan was to kill G1 and then have Imondo and Ritin switch places or (if that is not mechanically possible) have Imondo step back a square and Ritin step into his square. I don't think Edwin would have used his portent, actually, so I think G2 should be at full HP because Edwin would have missed.

So (ideally) Ritin is center, Imondo is left, Sen is right. Ritin is dodging (AC 19), but will get an OA when G2 steps up, and G2 is at 16 hp.
The Mists
GM, 150 posts
Fri 26 Feb 2021
at 19:49
  • msg #257

Re: Into the mists

The Mists:
G1: dead
G2: 16hp
G3: 18hp
G4: 16hp

ALL MOVED UP, G2 will attack

SIRE
player, 163 posts
Fri 26 Feb 2021
at 19:59
  • msg #258

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 257):

Ritin takes his OA on G2: Atk: 20, Dmg: 8
The Mists
GM, 151 posts
Fri 26 Feb 2021
at 20:03
  • msg #259

Re: Into the mists

Noice
The Mists
GM, 152 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 00:54
  • msg #260

Re: Into the mists

The next ghoul attacks w/ disadvantage: 6

G3 pushes up behind G2, almost pushing it over, then takes the dodge action.

G4 shows up (double move) entering from the west entrance of the room and moves into the square directly north of Inmondo, diagonal to Ritin, and next to Edwin (who is on the table, right?).
SIRE
player, 164 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 04:15
  • msg #261

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 260):

Edwin is on the table, yes.

Imondo attempts to grapple G4 (21, crit) and, if successful, moves G4 back through the doorway before using 1 ki and taking the Dodge action.

If that doesn't work, this next part might have to change.

----

Edwin slings a Fire Bolt at G2 (8) but misses.

Sen casts Toll the Dead on G2 for 12 if its save fails (and I think that would drop G2?)

Ritin takes the Dodge action.
The Mists
GM, 153 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 04:51
  • msg #262

Re: Into the mists

Nice round!

G4 is moved despite his (almost) best effort (Dex check: 20).

G2 stops the world and melt to goo.

G3 moves up to Ritin (Opportunity attack, AC 12), and attacks Ritin: 7

G4 attacks inmondo: 8

The ghouls think about taking their balls and going home.
SIRE
player, 165 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 06:48
  • msg #263

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 262):

Ritin gets G3 right in the ribs (23) for 8 damage.

Imondo smashes G4 in the clavicle (25), cosmetically caving in the corpse's corpulent cavity for 10 damage, and then kicks it in the belly for another 8.

I think that kills G4, so....

Edwin Fires a Bolt (23) at G3 for 5 damage.

Sen casts Toll the Dead on G3 for 5 damage, if it saves

Ritin again takes the Dodge action.
The Mists
GM, 154 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 07:18
  • msg #264

Re: Into the mists

G4 dead

G3 saves, makes a good attempt at an attack despite dodge, but it claws end up scraping loudly across Ritin’s shield.

You turn, 5hp left, finish him.
SIRE
player, 166 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 15:40
  • msg #265

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 264):

Imondo looks pleased with himself (20)

Edwin shoots a Fire Bolt at G3 (8), but misses again

Sen casts Toll the Dead for 9 if the save fails

Ritin attacks (17) and hits for 6 damage, dropping G3.

------

Ritin, breathing heavily and smiling a bit: "That wasn't so hard."

Sen makes a disgusted noise.

We continue down the southward hallway, following the right hand rule, but skipping the path that G4 took around.
The Mists
GM, 155 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 22:20
  • msg #266

Re: Into the mists

See email:
X marks the spot where you just fought, the red route is where G4 went. There are stairs leading down

I don't know if you recall, but the original description of the dungeon mentioned the sound of far off, constant chanting. It seems to be coming from down the stairs.
SIRE
player, 167 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 23:13
  • msg #267

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 266):

Sorry - I mean that we went straight south, since I figured I knew where the ghoul went was just a hallway.
The Mists
GM, 156 posts
Fri 26 Mar 2021
at 23:38
  • msg #268

Re: Into the mists

Ok, wasn't sure if you knew there was a leg off that path leading down.

A chandelier is suspended above a table in the middle of the room. Two high-backed chairs flank the table, which has an empty clay jug and two clay flagons atop it. Iron candlesticks stand in two corners, their candles long since melted away.

Bottom right is a door, left is a short hall that looks to lead to a bedroom.
SIRE
player, 168 posts
Sat 27 Mar 2021
at 03:46
  • msg #269

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 268):

Ok. We search the room with the table, and then search the room with the bed that you revealed. If nothing turns up, we listen at the south east door, check it for traps, and then see what's behind it.

Table Search:

20:44, Today: SIRE rolled 10,18,14,8 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 5,17,8,2.  Table - Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Bed Room Search:

20:44, Today: SIRE rolled 15,16,20,20 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 10,15,14,14.  Bedroom - Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Listen Door:

20:44, Today: SIRE rolled 18,20,23,16 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 13,19,17,10.  Listen - Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Trap Check:

20:45, Today: SIRE rolled 25,10,16,26 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 20,9,10,20.  Traps - Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.
The Mists
GM, 157 posts
Sat 27 Mar 2021
at 04:10
  • msg #270

Re: Into the mists

Those are some serious rolls, haha.

Ok, the bedroom first:

This room contains a large wood-framed bed with a rotted feather mattress, a wardrobe containing several old robes, a pair of iron candlesticks, and an open crate containing thirty torches and a leather sack with fifteen candles inside it. At the foot of the bed is an unlocked wooden footlocker containing some gear.

Characters searching the footlocker find a folded cloak, a small wooden coffer (unlocked) containing four potions, a chain shirt, a mess kit, a flask of alchemist’s fire, a bullseye lantern, a set of thieves’ tools, and a book with a yellow leather.

The potions are probably healing potions, the cloak has the arcane sheen of magic, and the book appears to probably be a spellbook. This is what Edwin intuits looking into the footlocker at the things therein.

Ritin notices that a large patch of wall on the west side looks a little different, like the dirt was packed back on rather then the rest of the walls that were merely cut away.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:19, Sat 27 Mar 2021.
SIRE
player, 169 posts
Sun 28 Mar 2021
at 04:07
  • msg #271

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 270):

Ritin points the wall out to the group and, after a brief discussion, Edwin and Sen convince Ritin that it is either a trap with the footlocker as the cheese or a secret door. Ritin insists on needing the contents of the footlocker, but Sen reminds him that the ghosts suggested that the house is actively trying to trap visitors, and Edwin points out that the chest containing such valuables while also containing thieve's tools is something of a cruel joke if it is, in fact, a trap.

On this basis, Ritin suggests that they might be able to pull the footlocker out of the room with a piece of rope and raid its contents from the safety of the next room, which convinces Edwin and, begrudgingly, Sen.

Ritin asks for the others to keep watch while he ties a rope around the footlocker (without disturbing it any more than necessary -- thinking a slip knot around its girth for dragging) and backs out of the doorway completely, moving around the corner to get out of any arrow or darts or things that shoot, and starts pulling the rope. The rest of the party keeps an eye on events from cover.

OOC: Make sense?
The Mists
GM, 158 posts
Sun 28 Mar 2021
at 18:29
  • msg #272

Re: Into the mists

You’re intuition proves accurate and once you start pulling the footlocker, the wall bursts open as well as another patch north of the footlocker. Each section of wall contained a ghast which vaguely resemble the lord and lady of the house.

Roll initiate (I assume you are all in the next room and probably not is the 5x5 section of hall connecting the two.
SIRE
player, 170 posts
Mon 29 Mar 2021
at 04:08
  • msg #273

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 272):

OOC: Holy crap...

21:07, Today: SIRE rolled 6,9,3,8 using 1d20+2,1d20+4,1d20+1,1d20+6 with rolls of 4,5,2,2.  Group Initiative {S,I,R,E}.
The Mists
GM, 159 posts
Mon 29 Mar 2021
at 22:00
  • msg #274

Re: Into the mists

Rolled a nat 1 for the Ghasts.

The rule I would like to have is that a nat 20 for initiative means you go first no matter what and a nat 1 means last no matter what, but just for the first round.

So, it will go like this:

Round 1:
Inmondo
Edwin
Sen
Ritin
Ghasts

Round 2:
Inmondo
Edwin
Sen
Ghasts
Ritin

Etc.

So, it will feel like Ritin get's skipped in the second round, but will be more like he didn't get skipped in the first round. Or something.

See email for ghast placement.
SIRE
player, 171 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 00:33
  • msg #275

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 274):

I am all for fudging where DM mistakes were made, but that is all.

OOC: Going to throw a little sub-par tactics in for character flavor in, here.

The normally placid Imondo, upon recognizing the ghasts as the parents of Rose and Thorn, rushes forward with a cry of rage (causing Edwin to yell "No!") and attacks the northern ghast with advantage (Rose/Thorn inspiration): 13 to hit, 5 damage. He then uses a ki point to disengage and move to the square south of the table.

Edwin, seeing his best friend recklessly throw himself into harms way stands trying to get a shot for his Fire Bolt, and is ready to fire as Imondo steps back into the room and steps out of the way: 19 to hit, 5 damage. He then backs up against the east wall as far as he can.

Sen, disappointed in such reckless foolishness, but more disgusted by the undead than he is upset with his companions, yells "Cover the door!" and casts Toll the Dead on the damaged ghast for 6 damage.

Ritin picks up his quarterstaff, steps into the doorway (remaining in the table room), and (with a forced and unconvincing air of being calm) says: "Too bad we can't starve you, like you did your children." He takes the Dodge action, but his OA will be 19 to hit and 5 damage.
The Mists
GM, 160 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 01:31
  • msg #276

Re: Into the mists

Wow, pretty good round, Toll lands, so you total 21 damage! As the male ghast (mg) approaches Ritin. MG lashes out with claws at the dodgy paladin.

Ritin earns more scratches on his shield (Att: 15).

The female ghast (fg) moves forward, but leaves some space between her and mg and waits, smiling.

I think I am going to have to impose a -2 for anyone attacking either passed Ritin, or diagonally into the hall, due to cover. Technically, I am not even sure a diagonal attack is possible past the corner.
The Mists
GM, 161 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 01:35
  • msg #277

Re: Into the mists

Oddly, since I did weird things with initiative, I think Ritin will continue to be dodgy until his next turn. So, everyone else will go, then the Ghasts, then Ritin. I might scrap this mechanic next time.
SIRE
player, 172 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 02:26
  • msg #278

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 277):

Interesting that we found the weirdness right away. Might be a fine thing to make them always go last and sort by roll, then dexterity modifier. It is fun.

Will take my turn around 9 my time
SIRE
player, 173 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 04:26
  • msg #279

Re: Into the mists

The Mists:
I think I am going to have to impose a -2 for anyone attacking either passed Ritin, or diagonally into the hall, due to cover. Technically, I am not even sure a diagonal attack is possible past the corner.


OOC: This is a better ruling than RAW: https://rpg.stackexchange.com/...-corners-grant-cover

I'm going to tell you my rolls without including cover in them, so you can decide how much cover.

Imondo steps adjacent to Ritin and attacks with his quarterstaff (16 to hit [or 14 with -2 cover], 6 damage), then kicks the ghoul for good measure (25 to hit [or 23 with -2 cover], 7 damage)

That's 13 damage total, for a cumulative total of 34.

Edwin yells "Clear the way!" and readies an action to cast Fire Bolt if he has line an unobstructed line of sight to either ghast.

Sen casts Toll the Dead on the wounded ghast if it is still up, and the female ghast if the male ghast is dead: 8 damage, if any.

Ghast turn.

On his turn, if Toll the Dead killed the
The Mists
GM, 163 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 05:01
  • msg #280

Re: Into the mists

Ghast AC 13.

Inmondo destroys the mg.

As soon as it falls, fg moves up (as a ready action, not that it matters), Ritin has already used his reaction (note, that if we kept Ritin at before the ghasts, her reaction would have taken place before his reaction refreshed).

Toll the dead: Saves

Ghast attacks Ritin w. disadv: 9

Ritin's turn. Ritin roll DC 10 con save
quote:
Stench. Any creature that starts its turn within 5 feet of the ghast must succeed on a DC 10 Constitution saving throw or be poisoned until the start of its next turn. On a successful saving throw, the creature is immune to the ghast's Stench for 24 hours.

SIRE
player, 174 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 16:23
  • msg #281

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 280):

OOC: I think Imondo is right there, too, so probably also needs to save...

Imondo Con Save: 10
Ritin Con Save: 20

Ritin steps south, triggering Edwin's ready action..

Edwin casts Fire Bolt: 19 to hit, 6 damage.

Ritin then steps back into the doorway and attacks with his quarterstaff (19 to hit, 4 damage) and PAM bonus attack (18 to hit, 5 damage). He then steps south again.

Imondo then steps into the breach and takes the Dodge action.

Sen then casts Toll the Dead for 7 or none.
SIRE
player, 177 posts
Tue 30 Mar 2021
at 20:14
  • msg #282

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 281):

After Imondo steps into the breach, Edwin steels himself to fire past his long-time friend...

OOC: Can you choose to use Inspiration after the roll is seen/outcome is known? I would like to hang onto it obviously, if I could, but am going to roll this attack like I have to declare up front...

To hit: 22 (would have needed inspiration anyway), damage 4
The Mists
GM, 168 posts
Wed 31 Mar 2021
at 00:23
  • msg #283

Re: Into the mists

Ghast damage: 26/34

Sensing weakness from Ritin who moved aside, the female ghast takes a swipe at him, but it proves too awkward, and she misses. She screams in frustration.

Ritin and Inmondo, con saves
SIRE
player, 180 posts
Wed 31 Mar 2021
at 03:33
  • msg #284

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 283):

OOC: Would you believe that I expectes that attack would happen that way, and figured it was better for Ritin to get it with his slightly better AC than Imondo? Rolls coming in a few.
The Mists
GM, 169 posts
Wed 31 Mar 2021
at 03:40
  • msg #285

Re: Into the mists

I believe that.
SIRE
player, 181 posts
Wed 31 Mar 2021
at 04:16
  • msg #286

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 285):

Imondo swings his quarterstaff at the mother ghast, thinking of his own abandonment and Rose and thorn, but does not strike true (Att: 10). In frustration, and to the surprise of everyone, he headbutts the ghast for 5 damage and then steps north to clear a path.

Edwin, seeing a clear shot, takes it--catching the stain on maternity in the chest (3 damage) and dropping her.

Imondo, overcome with a wave of emotion, sits down in one of the chairs--Sen pats him on the shoulder as he walks up to Ritin and says: "Bravery is only bravery in the face of fear. You did well."

-----

Edwin casts ritual Detect Magic in the next room while the others stand guard to confirm that magical nature of the contents of the chest. During this time, Imondo rests. After confirming the contents are magical, Edwin checks the spellbook while Imondo continues to rest and Sen and Ritin stand guard (probably clearing the stinky ghasts away).

OOC: My thoughts are that I want to understand what is in the chest, but don't want to take a chance that any items are cursed. If the spellbook is a spellbook, I might be inclined to scribe the spells into a single book while Imondo short rests. I don't really have a home for that chain shirt, unfortunately, unless it is also magical.
The Mists
GM, 170 posts
Wed 31 Mar 2021
at 05:00
  • msg #287

Re: Into the mists

Let's have you guys take a short rest so we can hand wave the item identification thing.
quote:
Characters searching the footlocker find a folded cloak of protection, a small wooden coffer (unlocked) containing four potions of healing, a chain shirt, a mess kit, a flask of alchemist’s fire, a bullseye lantern, a set of thieves’ tools, and a spellbook with a yellow leather cover containing the following wizard spells:

1st level: disguise self, identify, mage armor, magic missile, protection from evil and good

2nd level: darkvision, hold person, invisibility, magic weapon

SIRE
player, 182 posts
Wed 31 Mar 2021
at 06:30
  • msg #288

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 287):

We search the holes where the ghasts emerged and then move on with the rest of the plan, which I believe takes me through the eastern door.
The Mists
GM, 172 posts
Thu 1 Apr 2021
at 04:05
  • msg #289

Re: Into the mists

Who opens the door? Whoever it is finds their hand adhered to the door handle.

Note, any tomfoolery about pushing the door open with a staff or some such will be rebutted by an assertion that the door is latched and or that it seems to swing the other way.

Roll initiative.

Mimic rolled a dirty 20.

DC 13 athletics or acrobatics to escape grapple as an action. Check is made with disadvantage.
SIRE
player, 183 posts
Thu 1 Apr 2021
at 17:16
  • msg #290

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 289):

OOC: Just a reminder that I checked the door for traps with this roll from before

quote:
Trap Check:

20:45, Today: SIRE rolled 25,10,16,26 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 20,9,10,20.  Traps - Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.


If that doesn't change anything, I think Imondo would have been the one at the door, since he is my psuedo-rogue and the door might have been locked.

Initiative:

10:11, Today: SIRE rolled 17,17,14,25 using 1d20+2,1d20+4,1d20+1,1d20+6 with rolls of 15,13,13,19.  Group Initiative {S,I,R,E}.

So initiative order is:

Edwin
Mimic
Imondo
Sen
Ritin

Edwin casts Magic Missile at the mimic: 9 damage
The Mists
GM, 175 posts
Thu 1 Apr 2021
at 22:13
  • msg #291

Re: Into the mists

The door becomes semi-amorphous and the area around the handle forms a toothy, acidic maw, the door handle pulls Inmondo inward as it clamps down on his arm and shoulder.

Att: 24 (nat 19, almost crit)
Damage: 4 piercing, 6 acid

Mimic
AC: 12
HP: 57/66 (sorry for rolling well on hp...)

DC 13 athletics or acrobatics to escape grapple as an action. Check is made with disadvantage.
SIRE
player, 184 posts
Fri 2 Apr 2021
at 00:49
  • msg #292

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 291):

The attack misses (portent, 4)

Imondo attempts to escape (8) and succeeds (portent, 18). He then uses a ki point to disengage and retreat back up toward the grick room (yelling "Follow me!")

Sen and Ritin, slightly stunned at the turn of events and amazing escape, follow. Ritin stops part way up the hall so that he is the one who will be facing the creature and takes the Dodge action, and Sen casts Guidance on Ritin.

Edwin, not stunned at all, also retreats into the hallway.

Hallway order, from mimic backward, should be: Ritin, Sen, Imondo, Edwin (which is about in ascending order of how much movement they had left.
The Mists
GM, 176 posts
Fri 2 Apr 2021
at 01:03
  • msg #293

Re: Into the mists

Ok, you move into the hall. A round goes by.

Who has the light again? I wanna say either Sen or Edwin. In any case, I wanna say that even if you are barely in the hall, you don't see what, if anything the Mimic is doing from your vantage. If you are only barely in the hall, you see that it doesn't enter the room you were just in.
SIRE
player, 185 posts
Fri 2 Apr 2021
at 04:07
  • msg #294

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 293):

Ritin says: "On me, now" then takes the Dodge action to square up to the door.

Edwin squeezes around Sen and makes for the NW corner with the candlestick, knocking it aside if needs be before firing a Fire Bolt around Ritin (Attk: 11 without factoring in cover, 10 damage if it hits Ritin).
The Mists
GM, 177 posts
Fri 2 Apr 2021
at 04:17
  • msg #295

Re: Into the mists

When you go back, the door is gone.
SIRE
player, 186 posts
Sat 3 Apr 2021
at 02:07
  • msg #296

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 295):

Ok. We quietly creep forward in Ritin, Edwin, Sen, Imondo order. Imondo and Sen keep their eyes peeled backwkard, Ritin and Edwin forward. The plan is to advance, but any obstruction or out of place item might get shot with a Flame Bolt while Ritin Dodges up front, while Imondo and Sen are leery of the thing circling around somehow.
The Mists
GM, 178 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 00:38
  • msg #297

Re: Into the mists

You creep through a hallway, shooting a couple sets of wooden bracing in the tunnel structure, which turn out to be normal wood. You dodge into another room, Ritin dodges (or uses a disengage) to move into the next room, expecting an attack from the side which never comes.

This room is festooned with moldy skeletons that hang from rusty shackles against the walls. A wide alcove in the south wall contains a painted wooden statue carved in the likeness of a gaunt, pale-faced man wearing a voluminous black cloak, his pale left hand resting on the head of a wolf that stands next to him. In his right hand, he holds a smoky-gray crystal orb.

(See email for map, the stars are the statues of Strahd and the wolf)
SIRE
player, 187 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 15:00
  • msg #298

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 297):

Assuming I can see everything you drew, we back up and see if we can come into that room from "the north" by way of the ghoul intersection--also moving with paranoia about mimics.
The Mists
GM, 179 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 20:10
  • msg #299

Re: Into the mists

It does connect. You do not encounter the mimic.
SIRE
player, 188 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 21:48
  • msg #300

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 299):

Ok. We enter the Strahd room, and Edwin ritual casts Detect Magic while everyone else stands guard.
The Mists
GM, 180 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 21:57
  • msg #301

Re: Into the mists

Nothing pings as magical, but the orb in strahd's hand could be used as an arcane focus.

While standing around, someone with a passive perception of at least 10 notices that on the north wall a door has been concealed with clay. Not like the Ghast alcoves, just like a wooded door that was somewhat hastily covered with clay to conceal it.
SIRE
player, 189 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 22:02
  • msg #302

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 301):

Ritin says: "That looks familiar..."

Imondo says: "The mimic was sticky...Let me try something."

Imondo throws a rock against the claw surface to see if it sticks and, if it doesn't, tests whether it would stick for some food that was thrown against it instead of an inorganic missile.

Everyone else stands ready for a mimic attack.
The Mists
GM, 181 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 22:11
  • msg #303

Re: Into the mists

You throw a rock at it and hear a low thud, and some clay falls down. You prod it, and some of the wood breaks and more clay falls, and the outline is better seen. Food has no effect. Standing a few feet back you uncover and break apart the door with a quarterstaff.
SIRE
player, 190 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 23:02
  • msg #304

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 303):

Sen: "Who is putting up all this clay? And who would wall in two ghasts, unless the were walled in while alive..."

Ritin: "Let's see where this goes."

Edwin: "I agree, but we should come back and investigate this room, given its contents."

We see where the door takes us.
The Mists
GM, 182 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 23:54
  • msg #305

Re: Into the mists

The door opens immediately up to ascending stairs. At the top is a trap door (which you make sure is not a mimic or trapped) the trap door opens to the first floor of the house.
SIRE
player, 191 posts
Wed 7 Apr 2021
at 01:17
  • msg #306

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 305):

What room?
The Mists
GM, 183 posts
Wed 7 Apr 2021
at 01:33
  • msg #307

Re: Into the mists

quote:
3. Den of Wolves

This oak-paneled room looks like a hunter’s den. Mounted above the fireplace is a stag’s head, and positioned around the outskirts of the room are three stuffed wolves.

Two padded chairs draped in animal furs face the hearth, with an oak table between them supporting a cask of wine, two carved wooden goblets, a pipe rack, and a candelabrum. A chandelier hangs above a cloth-covered table surrounded by four chairs.

Two cabinets stand against the walls. The east cabinet sports a lock that can be picked with thieves’ tools and a successful DC 15 Dexterity check. It holds a heavy crossbow, a light crossbow, a hand crossbow, and 20 bolts for each weapon. The north cabinet is unlocked and holds a small box containing a deck of playing cards and an assortment of wine glasses.

Trapdoor

A trapdoor is hidden in the southwest corner of the floor. It can’t be detected or opened until the characters approach it from the underside (see area 32). Until then, Death House supernaturally hides the trapdoor.

I want to say that you saw the crossbows, but did not pick the lock or take them, and that you maybe moved the wolves or humped them or something.
SIRE
player, 192 posts
Wed 7 Apr 2021
at 03:27
  • msg #308

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 307):

Ok. At Sean's direction, everyone returns to the room below and searches without touching anything.
The Mists
GM, 184 posts
Wed 7 Apr 2021
at 03:32
  • msg #309

Re: Into the mists

You gather no additional information.
SIRE
player, 193 posts
Wed 7 Apr 2021
at 18:59
  • msg #310

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 309):

Ok. Continuing to be mimic-paranoid, we search this level of the dungeon for the mimic. If you want, I can try and describe the algorithm I would want to use to search that would minimize the chances of the mimic being able to slip through the drag net.
The Mists
GM, 185 posts
Thu 8 Apr 2021
at 01:06
  • msg #311

Re: Into the mists

You do not discover the mimic on this floor.

But the chanting from down below does start to wear on your nerves.
SIRE
player, 194 posts
Thu 8 Apr 2021
at 19:58
  • msg #312

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 311):

OOC: I hate mimics so much.

The group continues to advance like people who are scared of inanimate objects and being snuck up on, and makes their way to the stairs with the chanting--heading downward if it is not clear what the chanting is saying.

We also are wary of undead hiding behind walls or in the ground, since that seems to be a thing.
The Mists
GM, 186 posts
Thu 8 Apr 2021
at 21:49
  • msg #313

Re: Into the mists

OOC: your ooc made me chuckle a bit. I'm sorry. I could use the excuse of the adventure including a mimic, but it running away is all on me. But, I mean, isn't that what a mimic would do? Or Spiders for that matter?

The stairs go down to a small landing then continue down to the right. At the bottom is a door.

(See email)
SIRE
player, 195 posts
Fri 9 Apr 2021
at 19:27
  • msg #314

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 313):

Ok. I proceed with caution, watching for pressure plates, mimics, and undead traps (oh my!)
The Mists
GM, 187 posts
Fri 9 Apr 2021
at 22:43
  • msg #315

Re: Into the mists

Edwin thinks the door is probably a mimic, based on the way it fits in awkwardly with the stairs.

Also, whoever has the highest passive perception would probably corraborate and say that at some point since the mimic ran away, the chanting may have gotten quieter (like a door was 'shut').

How do you want to proceed with the probably mimic door? Firebolt? something else? Remember it is just down some stairs after a corner in the staircase, so pretty tigher quarters.
SIRE
player, 196 posts
Fri 9 Apr 2021
at 23:11
  • msg #316

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 315):

OOC: More than once, I have wished I had unseen servant as a spell already...

I would like to create an impediment to the mimic climbing the stairs, probably using furniture or some such from the floor above. After the impediment is in place, Fire Bolt and Toll the Dead are the way to go.
The Mists
GM, 188 posts
Fri 9 Apr 2021
at 23:23
  • msg #317

Re: Into the mists

Ok, you go back to a room with furniture and you pick up, A MIMIC! Just kidding, haha.

Ok, roll Firebolt att/dam (goes off before initiative)

Then roll initiative for everyone.

Mimic initiative: 13
SIRE
player, 197 posts
Fri 9 Apr 2021
at 23:49
  • msg #318

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 317):

Can Toll the Dead be in the mix for the pre-round, too? Figure Edwin/Sen can coordinate.

Edwin Fire Bolt: 13, 8
Sen Toll the Dead: 7


Initiative:
16:46, Today: SIRE rolled 11,10,16,20 using 1d20+2,1d20+4,1d20+1,1d20+1 with rolls of 9,6,15,19.  Group Initiative {S,I,R,E}.

Initiative Order:

Edwin
Ritin
Mimic
Sen
Imondo

Edwin fires again: 20, 1

Ritin squeezes by and takes the dodge action
The Mists
GM, 189 posts
Fri 9 Apr 2021
at 23:55
  • msg #319

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Can Toll the Dead be in the mix for the pre-round, too? Figure Edwin/Sen can coordinate.

No, only one thing, that's the made up rule I have made. Something has to be first. It should all be within initiative, but it just makes sense to me that there should be a first to act bonus.

I assumed you would prefer firebolt to be first since toll the dead does better on the wounded.

Oh, but I guess it was already wounded.

But it has probably been an hour with you all sneaking around the entire floor sweeping for mimics...
The Mists
GM, 190 posts
Sat 10 Apr 2021
at 00:11
  • msg #320

Re: Into the mists

The first FB lands dealing 8 fire damage.

Sen, though him and Edwin coordinated, is startled but the grotesqueness of what looks like a melting door with clusters of teeth and eyes becoming bared. It is not that he hesitates, but Edwin and Ritin are quicker to act, Edwin fires a mote into one of the eyes which closes and disappears.

The Mimic advances this time, but is soon tangled up in chairs. It attacks the chairs, trying to extricate itself.

I am going to give you 3 chairs (let's say there may be a couple more, but to get past, it has to destroy three chairs), 9 HP each, AC 12. This is due to the chairs not being in great shape.

The mimic obliterates one of the chairs, but is still tangled, now a mess of door colored pseudopods, teeth and eyes.

Mimic
AC: 12
HP: 48/66

Condition: Grappled
SIRE
player, 198 posts
Mon 12 Apr 2021
at 15:53
  • msg #321

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 320):

Ok.

Sen casts toll the dead: Save or 3 damage

Imondo will spend his turn (if he has to) getting the alchemists fire from Edwin, and intends to throw it at the first opportunity.

Edwin fires another Fire Bolt: 25, 5 damage

Ritin takes the Dodge action.
The Mists
GM, 191 posts
Mon 12 Apr 2021
at 20:28
  • msg #322

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Imondo will spend his turn (if he has to) getting the alchemists fire from Edwin, and intends to throw it at the first opportunity.

I was actually just thinking about taking things from allies today and what it should be. I think it would be an object interaction, but am also thinking that maybe it should have a movement cost as well.

But I think this should only apply to things that you carry ready for battle (like alchemist fire, healing potions, etc). I think if it something in a back pack that would be more involved.

But I am not sure you have a clear shot, not sure how you are all stacked up in the stairwell. Ritin is on the landing, I would think Edwin would be right behind him because he is firebolt passed the corner. Toll the dead you just have to see, so I supposed Sen could be in the 3rd or 4th position. And the mimic isn't 100% adjacent to Ritin yet because it is tangled up in furniture, so even Sen getting line of sight is probably going to involve some looming over Edwin's square.

So I think there is will have to be a lot of shuffling around to do the things you want to do I guess is what I'm saying. And that seems like it should involve an acrobatics check to be doing it on the stairs. Probably a DC 10 Sen and Inmondo to be moving back and forth, unless inmondo moves into the Edwin square to through the alchemist fire, then Edwon would have to roll the check too.
SIRE
player, 199 posts
Mon 12 Apr 2021
at 20:47
  • msg #323

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 322):

Ok -- If it is interact with an object + movement, then I think Edwin will get it out and Ritin will take it and throw it, rather than Dodging

Ritin improvised thrown weapon attack: 17, damage TBD by you at the start of its turns.

But we'll say it was Imondo's idea.
The Mists
GM, 192 posts
Tue 13 Apr 2021
at 05:25
  • msg #324

Re: Into the mists

quick post,

mimic take 5 fire bolt damage
3 TtD damage
1 alchemist fire damage

mimic almost chews through another chair (not carrying damage over, chair to chair)

Your turn.

Mimic
AC: 12
HP: 39/66

Condition: Grappled, burning
SIRE
player, 200 posts
Tue 13 Apr 2021
at 16:01
  • msg #325

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 324):

Also quick:

Sen casts Toll the Dead: Save or 2 damage

Imondo readies an action to move into the square of a fallen comrade

Edwin fires another Fire Bolt: 18 attack, 10 damage

Ritin wonders why he doesn't have ranged weapons and takes the Dodge action
The Mists
GM, 193 posts
Tue 13 Apr 2021
at 21:34
  • msg #326

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Ritin wonders why he doesn't have ranged weapons and takes the Dodge action

I was just thinking of this. It's funny, because to me it is a prominent checklist item for every character, standard melee, standard ranged. Like what would have if your enemy flies? What is someone cast levitate on you? I feel like this has come up in other games.
The Mists
GM, 194 posts
Wed 14 Apr 2021
at 01:04
  • msg #327

Re: Into the mists

Mimic destroys chair and almost dissolves another, tries pushing it out of the way, but gets tangled in one of the remaining chairs. Let's out a horrible mournful, aberrant wail.

Take 3 alchemist fire, 10 fire bolt, 2 TtD

Mimic
AC: 12
HP: 24/66

Condition: Grappled, burning
SIRE
player, 201 posts
Wed 14 Apr 2021
at 01:35
  • msg #328

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 326):

OOC: We actually picked up the crossbows earlier. I'm just punishing myself for bad inventory management.
SIRE
player, 202 posts
Wed 14 Apr 2021
at 15:14
  • msg #329

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 328):

Ok --

Sen casts Guidance on Ritin

Imondo re-readies his action to move into the square of a fallen comrade

Edwin fires a fire bolt, but misses

Ritin takes the dodge action and prepares for his OA.
The Mists
GM, 195 posts
Wed 14 Apr 2021
at 20:31
  • msg #330

Re: Into the mists

Mimic take 4 fire damage, bites through the last chair, moves up.

Roll OA.

Mimic
AC: 12
HP: 20/66

Condition: burning
SIRE
player, 203 posts
Wed 14 Apr 2021
at 23:30
  • msg #331

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 330):

Ritin whacks the beast as it approaches (23) for 4 damage.

Sen maintains his concentration on Guidance, and casts Toll the Dead for 11 damage (save conditional).

Imondo contemplates the universe and readies the same action.

Edwin briefly considers casting a real spell, but changes his mind and Fire Bolts: 21 atk, 5 damage.

19 or 8 damage, depending on the save.
SIRE
player, 204 posts
Wed 14 Apr 2021
at 23:44
  • msg #332

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 331):

I missed Ritin, who would attack twice, but only hit once, and for 4 damage.

So, dead or 8 hp remaining.
The Mists
GM, 196 posts
Thu 15 Apr 2021
at 00:14
  • msg #333

Re: Into the mists

The mimic melts into a pile of fiery, acidic goo.
SIRE
player, 206 posts
Thu 15 Apr 2021
at 03:12
  • msg #334

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 333):

Ok. We proceed with caution, following the right hand rule, and wary of the kinds of traps we have observed thus far.
The Mists
GM, 198 posts
Thu 15 Apr 2021
at 23:23
  • msg #335

Re: Into the mists

Reliquary

The ghostly chant emanating from the passage fills this room. Characters can discern a dozen or so voices saying, over and over, “He is the Ancient. He is the Land.”

Stored in thirteen niches along the walls are the following items:

    A small, mummified, yellow hand with sharp claws (a goblin’s hand) on a loop of rope
    A knife carved from a human bone
    A dagger with a rat’s skull set into the pommel
    An 8-inch-diameter varnished orb made from a nothic’s eye
    An aspergillum carved from bone
    A folded cloak made from stitched ghoul skin
    A desiccated frog lashed to a stick
    A bag full of bat guano
    A hag’s severed finger
    A 6-inch-tall wooden figurine of a mummy, its arms crossed over its chest
    An iron pendant adorned with a devil’s face
    The shrunken, shriveled head of a halfling
    A small wooden coffer containing a dire wolf’s withered tongue

The southwest tunnel slopes down at a 20-degree angle into murky water and ends at a rusty portcullis.

Let's say the details like it being from a Nothic's eye, etc are guesses based on a combination of different old wives of fell talismans and general history/arcana checkage.
SIRE
player, 207 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 00:43
  • msg #336

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 335):

Everyone stands guard while Edwin ritually casts Detect Magic.
The Mists
GM, 199 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 00:52
  • msg #337

Re: Into the mists

Nothing is magic, not even the imposter wand of paralysis.
SIRE
player, 208 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 02:23
  • msg #338

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 337):

Paralywhatnow?

Edwin takes the hag finger. Ritin takes the devil charm.

We go investigate the portcullis, but are leery if things hiding in the water.
The Mists
GM, 200 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 02:27
  • msg #339

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Paralywhatnow?

quote:
A desiccated frog lashed to a stick

I meant polymorph. This is what a wand of polymorph looks like in 5e.

This message was last edited by the GM at 02:31, Fri 16 Apr 2021.
The Mists
GM, 201 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 04:36
  • msg #340

Re: Into the mists

This tunnel is blocked by a rusty iron portcullis that can be forcibly lifted with a successful DC 20 Strength.

The chanting stops as you peer into this forty-foot-square room. The smooth masonry walls provide excellent acoustics. Featureless stone pillars support the ceiling, and a breach in the west wall leads to a dark cave heaped with refuse. Murky water covers most of the floor. Stairs lead up to dry stone ledges that hug the walls. In the middle of the room, more stairs rise to form an octagonal dais that also rises above the water. Rusty chains with shackles dangle from the ceiling directly above a stone altar mounted on the dais. The altar is carved with hideous depictions of grasping ghouls and is stained with dry blood.

The water is 2 feet deep. The ledges and central dais are 5 feet high (3 feet higher than the water’s surface), and the chamber’s ceiling is 16 feet high (11 feet above the dais and ledges). The chains dangling from the ceiling are 8 feet long.

Half embedded in the north wall is a wooden wheel connected to hidden chains and mechanisms (next to the portcullis in the room).

The hole in the south wall leads to a naturally formed alcove. It appears to be filled with refuse, but it is hard to tell with the light you have from your position.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:38, Fri 16 Apr 2021.
SIRE
player, 209 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 16:12
  • msg #341

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 340):

Hmmm...

Ok. Ritin takes the crossbow from whoever had it, and Edwin moves his Light casting to the fletching of a bolt. Ritin smiles: "A lighting bolt. Get it?"

Sen groans.

OOC: I think you might have made a mistake, saying there are two cave/alcoves with refuse? Either way, I think this plan is the same...

Everyone with a ranged attack gets ready, and Ritin fires the lighting bolt (TM) into the darkness of the cave behind the refuse.
The Mists
GM, 202 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 22:00
  • msg #342

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
In reply to The Mists (msg # 340):

Hmmm...

Ok. Ritin takes the crossbow from whoever had it, and Edwin moves his Light casting to the fletching of a bolt. Ritin smiles: "A lighting bolt. Get it?"

Sen groans.

OOC: I think you might have made a mistake, saying there are two cave/alcoves with refuse? Either way, I think this plan is the same...

Everyone with a ranged attack gets ready, and Ritin fires the lighting bolt (TM) into the darkness of the cave behind the refuse.

Yep, copy/paste madness and the compass directions not match map directions. Just one alcove, just one pile of refuse.
The Mists
GM, 203 posts
Fri 16 Apr 2021
at 22:01
  • msg #343

Re: Into the mists

It hits the wall with a clatter then falls to back light the refuse.
SIRE
player, 210 posts
Sat 17 Apr 2021
at 04:08
  • msg #344

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 343):

Ok. What's the refuse pile made of? If we can't tell what the pile of refuse is while it is backlit, Ritin sends another lighting bolt into the refuse pile.
The Mists
GM, 204 posts
Sat 17 Apr 2021
at 04:56
  • msg #345

Re: Into the mists

Excuse me while I do some garbage research.
The Mists
GM, 205 posts
Sat 17 Apr 2021
at 05:00
  • msg #346

Re: Into the mists

From where you are, it appears to be rotted organic matter, but you are not sure it is clothes, furniture, vegetation, maybe even crumbled in wood planks. Or food scraps. It looks like a garbage heap.
The Mists
GM, 206 posts
Sat 17 Apr 2021
at 05:02
  • msg #347

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Ritin sends another lighting bolt into the refuse pile.

It definitely looks like garbage, but old and rotted. You even wonder if there are dead bodies in there.
SIRE
player, 211 posts
Sat 17 Apr 2021
at 06:21
  • msg #348

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 347):

What makes me wonder that?
The Mists
GM, 207 posts
Sat 17 Apr 2021
at 06:28
  • msg #349

Re: Into the mists

The the general vibe of this place, I was editorializing.
SIRE
player, 212 posts
Sun 18 Apr 2021
at 17:40
  • msg #350

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 349):

I think I have walked down some stairs, through a room with a bunch of creepy items, into a flooded hallway with a portcullis. I didn't see any mention of other hallways, so I figure this is a puzzle, but if there are other hallways, I would explore them first.

If there are not other hallways, I want to start looking for ways to fashion some levers and such to jack up the portcullis enough to get someone under to work the crank.
The Mists
GM, 208 posts
Mon 19 Apr 2021
at 04:11
  • msg #351

Re: Into the mists

Look at the last two emails, you entered the previous room on the north east side. On the south wall there were two hallways, one on the west side and one on the east side. Although it didn’t follow the right hand rule (which you had specified was the plan) you said to go down to the portcullis. There is another path.
SIRE
player, 213 posts
Mon 19 Apr 2021
at 16:05
  • msg #352

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 351):

We go down the other path.
The Mists
GM, 209 posts
Mon 19 Apr 2021
at 21:34
  • msg #353

Re: Into the mists

36. Prison

The cultists shackled prisoners to the back walls of alcoves here. The prisoners are long gone, but the rusty shackles remain. Except there is one skeleton wearing black robes hanging in one of the cells by shackles. They look like cultist robes, similar to what you saw on the ghasts, and in the ghasts room, and possible the shreds of clothes on the ghouls.

Please roll your basic search script and let me know if there is anything you would specifically like to do or not do.
SIRE
player, 214 posts
Wed 21 Apr 2021
at 15:31
  • msg #354

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 353):

08:30, Today: SIRE rolled 24,20,10,10 using 1d20+5,1d20+1,1d20+6,1d20+6 with rolls of 19,19,4,4.  Group Perception/Investigation {S(P),I(P),R(P),E(I)}.

Sen and Imondo with the big rolls.

I would specifically like to search the black robed skeleton.
The Mists
GM, 210 posts
Thu 22 Apr 2021
at 05:19
  • msg #355

Re: Into the mists

36. Prison

The cultists shackled prisoners to the back walls of alcoves here. The prisoners are long gone, but the rusty shackles remain.
Secret Door

A secret door in the EAST wall can be found with a successful DC 15 Wisdom (Perception) check and pulls open to reveal area 38 beyond.

Treasure

Hanging on the back wall of the cell marked X on the map is a human skeleton clad in a tattered black robe. The skeleton belongs to a cult member who questioned the cult’s blind devotion to Strahd. Characters who search the skeleton find a gold ring (worth 25 gp) on one of its bony fingers.
SIRE
player, 215 posts
Thu 22 Apr 2021
at 16:28
  • msg #356

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 355):

"Area 38" sounds mysterious...

We loot, and I'm interested in what we're walking into.
The Mists
GM, 211 posts
Thu 22 Apr 2021
at 22:49
  • msg #357

Re: Into the mists

You take the ring.

The room "Area 38" is the same one you saw through the portcullis, but from the west side of the room.

The Mists:
This tunnel is blocked by a rusty iron portcullis that can be forcibly lifted with a successful DC 20 Strength.

The chanting stops as you peer into this forty-foot-square room. The smooth masonry walls provide excellent acoustics. Featureless stone pillars support the ceiling, and a breach in the west wall leads to a dark cave heaped with refuse. Murky water covers most of the floor. Stairs lead up to dry stone ledges that hug the walls. In the middle of the room, more stairs rise to form an octagonal dais that also rises above the water. Rusty chains with shackles dangle from the ceiling directly above a stone altar mounted on the dais. The altar is carved with hideous depictions of grasping ghouls and is stained with dry blood.

The water is 2 feet deep. The ledges and central dais are 5 feet high (3 feet higher than the water’s surface), and the chamber’s ceiling is 16 feet high (11 feet above the dais and ledges). The chains dangling from the ceiling are 8 feet long.

Half embedded in the north wall is a wooden wheel connected to hidden chains and mechanisms (next to the portcullis in the room).

The hole in the south wall leads to a naturally formed alcove. It appears to be filled with refuse, but it is hard to tell with the light you have from your position.

SIRE
player, 216 posts
Fri 23 Apr 2021
at 00:56
  • msg #358

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 357):

Ok. Have we passed any wooden things? Is there wood in the refuse pile? I am looking for additional light--like we start a fire or something.
The Mists
GM, 212 posts
Tue 27 Apr 2021
at 02:23
  • msg #359

Re: Into the mists

On the previous floor there is furniture and you didn't use on the mimic trap/fire. Also broken chairs on the stairs. You could make torches, if that is what you want. Also, if your characters have standard gear, they probably have torches in their packs.
SIRE
player, 217 posts
Tue 27 Apr 2021
at 18:56
  • msg #360

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 359):

Is there dry ground in the room, other than the dias? I'm reluctant to go up on the murder podium.

I guess we'll do without, though -- I'm interested in where the cave behind the rubbish heap leads, so I suppose we cautiously proceed in that direction, but after we test the portcullis to see if we can lift it up just enough for us to pass under as difficult terrain.
The Mists
GM, 213 posts
Wed 28 Apr 2021
at 04:26
  • msg #361

Re: Into the mists

The border of the room is raised, IIRC.

The rubbish heap is in an alcove that does not appear to continue.
SIRE
player, 218 posts
Thu 29 Apr 2021
at 00:49
  • msg #362

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 361):

Ok--then we inspect the alcove and the rubbish heap in greater detail.

OOC: This part of this campaign is weird. I'm clearly supposed to be in this room, this place is clearly dangerous and full of traps, but I am not sure (really) what I'm even doing here. The kids are buried, which seems like it should have been the end of things.
The Mists
GM, 214 posts
Thu 29 Apr 2021
at 02:33
  • msg #363

Re: Into the mists

If you were to try and leave the house, you would still be trapped by mists. The kids in the street you saw were illusions created by the house, which is why the real ghost kids did not recollect the interaction.

It appears to be a pile of decay and rot, you now discern human clothes, and the stench of rotting flesh.

Roll an intelligence (nature check for everyone investigating the pile of refuse).
SIRE
player, 219 posts
Thu 29 Apr 2021
at 16:36
  • msg #364

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 363):

10 and 7 for Edwin and Imondo, in that order.
The Mists
GM, 215 posts
Fri 30 Apr 2021
at 02:20
  • msg #365

Re: Into the mists

You are unable to discern anything else.

After a few moments of being in the room, ghostly apparitions of cultists appear around the platform in the middle of the room chanting in low tones what sounds like gibberish. They do not disturb the water and are translucent. They do not seem hostile. After a beat, some of them part creating a path to the platform.

After another beat, they begin to loudly chant, "One must die! One must die!"
SIRE
player, 220 posts
Fri 30 Apr 2021
at 04:17
  • msg #366

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 365):

We flee through the secret door, close, and hold it while searching for a way to barricade it, ideally with chains. I'm thinking Imondo helps Ritin with Sen dropping guidance on Ritin while Edwin searches for a way to barricade the door.
The Mists
GM, 216 posts
Fri 30 Apr 2021
at 04:38
  • msg #367

Re: Into the mists

When you turn and flee, the ghostly cultists shout, “Lorghoth the Decayer, we awaken thee!” and you catch sight as you leave through the secret door the heap of refuse lumber to life, convulsing forward, a roiling mass of rotting flesh and broken bones. It seems to collapse in on itself as it moves, as if trying to pull everything into itself.

You close the secret door, which is kind of a pocket door situation, spiking it on one side with a dagger. There is no obvious way (that I can think of) to chain it shut, and there aren't any unfettered chains (see what I did there?), unless you hacked at one, which would require attack rolls, etc. (AC 19 for iron)

In the meantime, you hear something slam and slam against the door, there is a loud cracking sound. You estimate that it will definitely break if hit again.

OOC: I used a resilient medium object for HP. I hadn't 100% decided if the door was stone (AC 17) or wood (AC 15), so rolled to see if it mattered. It didn't. We can say it's stone.
SIRE
player, 221 posts
Fri 30 Apr 2021
at 16:17
  • msg #368

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 367):

Ok. I have an idea, but it requires that the portcullis have a "release" -- i.e., that it can come crashing down. Did we notice anything like that?

If not, I think we are fleeing and kiting our way out.
SIRE
player, 222 posts
Fri 30 Apr 2021
at 16:26
  • msg #369

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 368):

After looking at Edwin's spells, I take it back. I'm still interested in the portcullis, but I have a backup plan other than fleeing as well.
The Mists
GM, 217 posts
Fri 30 Apr 2021
at 21:21
  • msg #370

Re: Into the mists

It did, in the room with the platform/cultists/decayer
SIRE
player, 223 posts
Sat 1 May 2021
at 04:40
  • msg #371

Re: Into the mists

So, clearly I intend to crush the creature and pin it below the gate to be dispatched. My plan, which I am offering here to figure out if there are environmental characteristics which are relevant to components of the plan in a way my characters might intuitively know from having been in the space physically, rather than imagining it. The example that comes to mind is that the depth of the water might constitute difficult terrain, but there could be others.

Edwin would say to Imondo, leveraging their shared childhood in a monastery, a key scene from a children's story they both know. If I were to say something like this to you: "Luke in the Rancor Pit." The idea being that I am going to convey the plan or a complex thought no choosing a narrative which contains it. I got this idea from a particularly good episode of Statmr Trek: TNG--"Darmok". It is on Netflix.

I have proof that this works in real life. If you recall that young member party we went to together in winterwood while you were dating Lauren? And you and I ruined that game of Taboo (or whatever) by having so much shared context that we could run every card like it was a fill in the blank? I think we were murdering them so bad that we were using inside jokes, but were most successful with lyrics and other music references.

If I were DMing, though, I would strongly debate whether this required checks, and the nature of the checks involved. I'll leave that all to you, but here is the plan:

Edwin has a moment of clarity wash over him. He looks at Imondo, serious as the grave, and says "Luke in the Rancor Pit." Imondo, amidst the banging on the door, understands what Edwin is proposing and says: "I will be there."

Edwin drops his light source and yells "retreat!" Sen and Ritin do, but Imondo flees deeper into the cells to hide.

The plan would be to have the thing chase the 3 other party members while Imondo hides and then slips behind it (picking up the light) to raise the portcullis. Edwin would let himself take up the rear and, once it was clear that the best was in pursuit, he would cast Phantasmal Force on it in the form of a cage. If the thing goes for Imondo instead of chasing the group, it gets caged and we go full combat.

Whether the save succeeds or not, the plan is to bring the beast around, crush it, and kill it or else to go full on offense against it.

Would the water or anything else that my characters would know about impede this plan?
The Mists
GM, 218 posts
Sat 1 May 2021
at 05:42
  • msg #372

Re: Into the mists

SEE EMAIL
SIRE
player, 225 posts
Sat 1 May 2021
at 16:27
  • msg #373

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 372):

Given its size and heavy hitting, plus the various loops in the dungeon, I'm thinking the best option will be kiting it (if it is slow) or fleeing back to the trap door into the den or in ghoul intersection to make a stand. I don't recall any 60' straight shots for kiting, and the battle would be tedious with me getting one or two attacks off per some multiple of that rounds of dashing to make space.

Does it seem slow?
The Mists
GM, 220 posts
Wed 19 May 2021
at 21:01
  • msg #374

Re: Into the mists

You estimate it's speed to be 20'.

Sending you the map of the whole house.
The Mists
GM, 221 posts
Wed 19 May 2021
at 21:07
  • msg #375

Re: Into the mists


SIRE
player, 226 posts
Wed 19 May 2021
at 21:23
  • msg #376

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 375):

Ok. The plan, then, is to lure it up the stairs. We'll shoot and provoke it if it stops, and give cautious chase if it attempts to flee. I would like to go up the stairs, south, then north through the grick room, past the tombs, north through the sleeping quarters, and back to the grick room and downstairs.

Imondo will take one of the light coins. As soon as it is clear that the thing has pursued beyond the grick room (maybe up to the tombs to be extra sure, Imondo will run ahead on that path, back down to the portcullis, and try to raise it so we can crush the thing beneath the gate and finish it off from there.

I want to stay away from areas I haven't been before, so no ducking into the tombs I didn't go into (but we look in as we pass to make sure we aren't getting jumped). I also think there was one or two hallways I didn't go down -- I want to avoid those as well.
The Mists
GM, 222 posts
Thu 20 May 2021
at 00:35
  • msg #377

Re: Into the mists

Ok, I need to look at the map a bit and figure out how that would go down, hang on.
The Mists
GM, 223 posts
Thu 20 May 2021
at 00:41
  • msg #378

Re: Into the mists

OK, go ahead and give me two ranged attacks of your choice. I am thinking that at a couple points where you have a stretch of about 20' or so, you couple ready action for while fleeing the floor. When you go up the stairs, it stops and slinks away. It's last known location is circled in red in the last email.

You will have to go down to the bottom of the stairs to look around the corner.
The Mists
GM, 224 posts
Thu 20 May 2021
at 00:42
  • msg #379

Re: Into the mists

Actually I think someone has a passive perception of at least 15, so you suspect it is hiding just around the corner.
SIRE
player, 227 posts
Thu 20 May 2021
at 01:47
  • msg #380

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 379):

OK...Sen and Edwin stay in the stairwell with a shot on it if it pops out, and Ritin and Imondo do the ol' pretend to walk away.

Attacks coming, both from Edwin, I think. Also, since Toll the Dead doesn't need a clear shot (ignores cover) I would try that if it presented itself as well.
SIRE
player, 228 posts
Thu 20 May 2021
at 01:49
  • msg #381

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 380):

Edwin: 10, 1; 23, 2
The Mists
GM, 225 posts
Thu 20 May 2021
at 03:49
  • msg #382

Re: Into the mists

It does not seem to notice either firebolt, though you know the second one was a direct hit.
SIRE
player, 229 posts
Fri 21 May 2021
at 18:53
  • msg #383

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 380):

OK...Sen and Edwin stay in the stairwell with a shot on it if it pops out, and Ritin and Imondo do the ol' pretend to walk away.
The Mists
GM, 226 posts
Fri 21 May 2021
at 19:42
  • msg #384

Re: Into the mists

You enact his plan. Nothing happens.
SIRE
player, 230 posts
Fri 21 May 2021
at 20:21
  • msg #385

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 384):

OOC: Ok. We cautiously retreat up the stairs. When we are at the top, we cover the lights and listen for the sound of the thing climbing over or through the mimic rubble.
The Mists
GM, 227 posts
Fri 21 May 2021
at 20:24
  • msg #386

Re: Into the mists

You do not hear it come.
SIRE
player, 231 posts
Sat 22 May 2021
at 03:23
  • msg #387

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 386):

The party quietly debates this turn off events while Imondo listens for trouble, ultimately deciding that the only reason not to pursue is that it is guarding something, and that its tactics suggest troubling intelligence. Edwin suggests getting help, but Sen prevails in his argument that nobody here in this cursed place is likely to stir up trouble. Ritin says they can't run from everything and have any hope of getting home, and Sen agrees--but insists that tactics need planned out. Edwin says he has an idea, but it will require sleep, and so everyone heads back to the children's room where we long rested previously. Imondo and Ritin stand guard while Sen and Edwin gets his L2 spells online.
The Mists
GM, 228 posts
Fri 4 Jun 2021
at 19:51
  • msg #388

Re: Into the mists

OK, I was waffling for awhile because I was unsure of the next bit, as in, I was unsure if I wanted to play it by the book. But imperfect progress is better than stagnation, so, onward.

As your party ascends to the attic the house seems to have a different... energy. More malevolent and animated. You hear a copious amount of scratching within the walls. You can hear rhythmic mechanical noises, and the noxious odor of very sooty smoke.

When you get to the attic you enter the large room with the entrance to the secret stairwell. The door out of that room is gone, in its place are scythe-like blades swish-swooshing across the opening. The smell of fireplace smoke is thicker and you can start to see a haze of atmosphere.
SIRE
player, 232 posts
Fri 4 Jun 2021
at 21:00
  • msg #389

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 388):

OOC: Shoot....

After a brief discussion, it is decided that this is a result of not having cleared the dungeon. Knowing they now have a dreadful enemy waiting in the darkness, the party cautiously descends the stairs back to the dungeons, and methodically attempts to again clear the first level.

If we run into the thing, I still want to implement the kiting/portcullis plan as best I can. If we run into it and are not in a position where we can run a loop, then I think we have to kite it up the stairs of the tower to the degree we can.
The Mists
GM, 229 posts
Fri 4 Jun 2021
at 21:21
  • msg #390

Re: Into the mists

The dungeon is still clear, the monster appears to still be at the bottom level, just out of sight.
SIRE
player, 233 posts
Mon 7 Jun 2021
at 04:38
  • msg #391

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 390):

Let me think about it -- Garin and Lucky would have dug through from the top, and I just might.
SIRE
player, 234 posts
Mon 7 Jun 2021
at 18:36
  • msg #392

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 391):

Ok -- Given that there was a spot where ghouls crawled up from the ground, I am thinking that the earth must be fairly soft--so I am interested in the digging plan. Ideally, we would dig down into the room with the altar, lower Imondo down to crank the portcullis up, and then try to lure it back.

If that doesn't work, options I'm entertaining would include trying to find a place to take a long rest--assuming the tunnels don't appear to be affected by whatever is making the house go crazy.

If that fails, I guess I have to try to communicate with it -- Being close to the corner like that is really suggesting I have given up whatever the tactically viable position was for this combat....
The Mists
GM, 230 posts
Mon 7 Jun 2021
at 20:32
  • msg #393

Re: Into the mists

OK, the location of the southern-most ghoul appearance is most likely to get you where you need to go. You know that to the next floor down there were a couple staircases (about 25' total), but the room with the alter also had vaulted ceilings.

You estimate that the difference is a little over 10'.

Roll constitution checks. Roll with advantage if you happen to have proper tools in your equipment, like a shovel/pick.
SIRE
player, 235 posts
Mon 7 Jun 2021
at 21:18
  • msg #394

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 393):

Sen has a shovel (a decision I made because of the Grave domain. Fun.) and Ritin has a hammer and iron spikes.

For Con checks, I rolled each with advantage and with Guidance. While people are digging, I make sure at least one of either Sen or Imondo are standing watch.


14:15, Today: SIRE rolled 12,11,19,29 using 2d20+1d4,2d20+1d4,2d20+1d4,2d20+1d4.  SIRE Con check w/o Con Mod - Adv. and Guidance.
14:15, Today: SIRE rolled 18,14,18,16 using 2d20+1d4,2d20+1d4,2d20+1d4,2d20+1d4 with rolls of 8,9,1;7,4,3;9,8,1;11,2,3.  Same -- Forgot to check the box for record each die.

So, after Con mod, that is:

Sen: 12
Imondo: 12
Ritin: 11
Edwin: 15
The Mists
GM, 231 posts
Tue 8 Jun 2021
at 04:40
  • msg #395

Re: Into the mists

Ok, you get about halfway down before you all feel like you are about to be exhausted. If you continue, you will suffer a point of exhaustion.
SIRE
player, 236 posts
Fri 11 Jun 2021
at 18:48
  • msg #396

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 395):

Does a short rest reset that?
The Mists
GM, 232 posts
Sat 12 Jun 2021
at 19:37
  • msg #397

Re: Into the mists

Sure.
The Mists
GM, 233 posts
Sat 12 Jun 2021
at 23:23
  • msg #398

Re: Into the mists

Ok, I re-rolled the same check for you.

Turns out that Sen gets down to a wooden ceiling beam before he poops out. The others are able to widen the hole at the base, finding the edges of the beam, and digging away most of the dirt before it starts to drop down into the alter room.
SIRE
player, 237 posts
Mon 14 Jun 2021
at 21:59
  • msg #399

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 398):

Ok. Lots of conditionals in here, but here's the plan....

1) Clear out the hole a little bit (at least enough to have line of sight for a Fire Bolt
2) Edwin and Imondo hang out at the hole, while Ritin and Sen go back to confirm that the beast is still lurking at the foot of the stairs.
3) Imondo and Edwin keep Sen's light coint, while Ritin and Sen take Edwin's (this is important). Edwin and Imondo drop the light into the room to provide some glowage.
4) If the beast is still at the foot of the stairs when Sen/Ritin get there, Sen casts light on a second coin (plunging Edwin/Imondo into darkness). Ritin and Sen then taunt and jeer and make a real nuisance of themselves to try and keep the thing there.
5) If Edwin/Imondo's light goes out, Edwin casts light on a new coin (ending one of two light spells that Sen/Ritin are then benefitting from). Imondo descends the chains while Edwin sends down a rope that Imondo could reach from the altar.
6) If the beast clearly leaves the foot of the stairs from Ritin/Sen's perspective to return to the altar area, Sen/Ritin would follow to add to the firepower when the thing gets squished by the gate.

If the beast is not at the foot of the stairs, the group re-.....groups at the hole before any light spells are ceased.
The Mists
GM, 234 posts
Mon 14 Jun 2021
at 22:14
  • msg #400

Re: Into the mists

I am a little confused about chains vs rope. Was there a chain in a description I pasted then forgot about? In either case, you can set up a rope into the alter room before doing anything.

Is Inmondo taking the Second Edwin glowing coin with him?
SIRE
player, 238 posts
Tue 15 Jun 2021
at 00:13
  • msg #401

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 400):

I was thinking about throwing it down, or shooting a lighting bolt (tm).

I demand acknowledgment of my communication strategy inspired by quantum entanglement.
The Mists
GM, 235 posts
Tue 15 Jun 2021
at 01:24
  • msg #402

Re: Into the mists

How is that inspired by quantum entanglement? Because your light spell can only be present on one coin at a time? It is a good communication method.

Lighting bolt is punny.

The monster does approach the stairs at one point. You get one pot shot before it retreats and doesn't repeat it's mistake (for each Sen and Ritin, if Sen has a ranged weapon).

Inmondo can get down to the crank, no problem. Are you going to try and raise it stealthily? If so, give me a stealth check. Otherwise, give me an athletics check.

Either way, the better your check, the higher you will be able to get it before it comes down the ramp, which will affect damage/effectiveness.
SIRE
player, 239 posts
Tue 15 Jun 2021
at 22:01
  • msg #403

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 402):

I was thinking about how to communicate instantly over a distance, and though about how in QE an action in one place creates a result in another. The light cantrip is great for that.

Stealth is the way to go: 09:30, Today: SIRE rolled 20 using 1d20+6.  Imondo Gate Stealth Check.

Before we go too far, this plan is predicated on a comment that you made up the thread that I took to mean that the portcullis has a quick release. I mention that because I want Imondo to use the quick release and then move. Ideally the quick release could be triggered with a stick something.
The Mists
GM, 236 posts
Tue 15 Jun 2021
at 22:27
  • msg #404

Re: Into the mists

I don't remember saying anything about it, but I thought about it the other day, and I feel like that should be a standard property of portcullises. I mean, that is kind of the point, right? That you can shut them quickly? So, yeah, it will fall when you release it.
SIRE
player, 240 posts
Wed 16 Jun 2021
at 04:06
  • msg #405

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 404):

Might also be good to talk about the ideal way this plays out, IMO....

Beast gets crushed by the gate, taking damage, but the damage is just gravy. I'm really hoping it gets pinned. If it does, spells are coming out. Sen will be looking to do some Guiding Bolt action (hopefully getting a chance to use his grave domain power on one of his two castings), while Edwin (hopefully) is raining death in the form of Magic Missiles. Imondo doesn't have much of a role to play, but will be the bait if it gets loose. Ritin is more interesting, since he has some Smite Evil to dispense, but I don't want anyone to get close.

If all the spells hit, and the grave domain thing works, that will be:

Gate
4d6
4d6x2, with advantage
6d4+6

Soooo.....63 damage, plus gate? Plus any Imondo action (2d6?) and a couple of sites (4d8) will take me to 91? Edwin might have another spell slot. I have to check. But the hole in the ceiling means we can kite, at least a little.

I think I like these odds.
The Mists
GM, 238 posts
Wed 16 Jun 2021
at 04:45
  • msg #406

Re: Into the mists

We'll just have to see what happens, I guess. I haven't projected out that far.
SIRE
player, 241 posts
Wed 16 Jun 2021
at 04:59
  • msg #407

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 406):

Mostly was trying to avoid any surprise tactical misplacement, like finding out Ritin and Sen aren't in the vicinity of the gate when it crashes. Given the thing is slow, I think they can follow it cautiously down the ramp to be relevant to the combat. They might even "reverse kite" it as it pulls back--though I would not want to jeopardize the gate portion of the plan.
The Mists
GM, 239 posts
Tue 20 Jul 2021
at 22:56
  • msg #408

Re: Into the mists

Inmondo is able to raise gate stealthily as possible, but a couple times it kind of catches, then clinks a little. You get it all the way up to the top before you hear the thing coming down the ramp. Ok, now I am going to have Inmondo roll an attack roll (as if making an unarmed attack), with advantage, assuming Edwin is helping him time it.

Is Edwin up in the ceiling still?
SIRE
player, 242 posts
Fri 13 Aug 2021
at 20:32
  • msg #409

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 408):

That is the plan -- Keep Edwin up top and shooting, Imondo moving as bait, and Sen/Ritin involved for ranged damage. I'm going to roll the attack roll in the next post, but I need to refresh my memory on the plan since it has been a minute....
SIRE
player, 243 posts
Fri 13 Aug 2021
at 20:38
  • msg #410

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 409):

It is slightly unclear to me whether you meant an unarmed attack, or an improvised weapon attack, so I am going to roll some naked 20s (with advantage) and also provide modifiers that may be relevant.

Attack Rolls: 13:35, Today: SIRE rolled 39 using 2d20 with rolls of 19,20.  Imondo Gate Attack, No Mods, Advantage.

Result: Crit [I laughed out loud]

Profiency: +2
Dex: +4
Strength: +2
The Mists
GM, 240 posts
Fri 13 Aug 2021
at 21:50
  • msg #411

Re: Into the mists

Due to a commitment to laziness, I am just going with a trap I found online to define what falling portcullis damage should be, which is 6d6, so roll 12d6 damage. Well, I will, to speed things along.

Piercing damage: 49 (7 better than average)

The mass of decaying flesh and refuse shutters, then spasms, then begins to thrash about.

Strength check to push up on portcullis (I will be making this check and attacks against the portcullis at disadvantage).

Your turn(s)
SIRE
player, 244 posts
Sun 15 Aug 2021
at 04:06
  • msg #412

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 411):

Imondo: Looks for a locking mechanism on the portcullis and, if one exists, engages it. If one does not exist, he looks for something metal nearby with which he can jam the mechanism. I figure that there will at least be a way to climb the gate to the top and use his quarterstaff between a hole in the grating and the stone from which it drops (like barring a door with a spear, but at the top). Trying to add some difficulty to the check since he already has disadvantage--even Imondo's weight might count for a +1 to the DC, I figure.

Edwin: I had to go back through the posting history, but I believe a) it was never answered whether Edwin got his L3 spell slots at the milestone or not. Assuming not, he used 1 L1 slot on the mimic and has two remaining, assuming no arcane recovery (which may have happened during the hole digging). The conservative assumption is that he has two L1 slots remaining, and he uses 1 of them to cast Magic Missile on the thing, raining death from above for 10 damage.

Ritin: Ritin fires a crossbow bolt (9) which I assume is a miss

Sen: Readies an action to cast Guiding Bolt upon completing his Path to the Grave Channel Divinity. This looks a bit like winding up for a kamehameha in Dragonball Z, but with that old-timey priest finger thing and not crouching--just pulling back before letting it rrrrrrip.
The Mists
GM, 241 posts
Sun 19 Sep 2021
at 00:06
  • msg #413

Re: Into the mists

The mound batters the portcullis, some damage is apparent, but it looks to be holding pretty well.
SIRE
player, 246 posts
Sun 19 Sep 2021
at 23:05
  • msg #414

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 413):

Ok....It is not clear what the result of Imondo's action is, so that will need to be resolved next.

Edwin casts Magic Missile again: 8 damage

Ritin attempts to distract the beast (takes the Help action) for Sen.

Sen uses his Path to the Grave power, triggering his readied Guiding Bolt--which he fires by pointing that 3-fingered priest gesture at the thing like his hand is a gun. This roll is with advantage, no matter what, because of Ritin's turn; Atk: 24 (So close!!!) Dmg: 30
This message was last edited by the player at 22:12, Mon 20 Sept 2021.
SIRE
player, 247 posts
Sun 19 Sep 2021
at 23:08
  • msg #415

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 414):

Cumulative Damage w/o Ritin's figured in or Imondo's turn: 97

Cumulative Damage w/ only Ritin's better hit figured in and w/o Imondo: 110

Cumulative Damage w/ both of Ritin's hits figured in and w/o Imondo: 127
The Mists
GM, 242 posts
Mon 20 Sep 2021
at 16:43
  • msg #416

Re: Into the mists

ok, So, I was not planning on giving advantage. Could you edit your post accordingly? I have having trouble with the conditionals.
SIRE
player, 248 posts
Mon 20 Sep 2021
at 22:13
  • msg #417

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 416):

Updated. You owe me Imondo's position/circumstances, I think. Then I can take his turn and see what happens
SIRE
player, 249 posts
Mon 20 Sep 2021
at 22:31
  • msg #418

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 417):

Finally, Imondo approaches the beast and unleashes a Flurry of Blows:

Qstaff -- Atk: 10, Dmg: 7
Unarmed 1 -- Atk: 19, Dmg: 6
Unarmed 2 -- Atk: 15, Dmg: 6
The Mists
GM, 243 posts
Mon 20 Sep 2021
at 23:54
  • msg #419

Re: Into the mists

The thing lashes out at Imondo, but he easily avoids the partially restrained attacks.

AC: 15
HP: 22
SIRE
player, 250 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 18:18
  • msg #420

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 419):

Imondo strikes the beast with his Qstaff and then uses his remaining Ki to take the Dodge action. He has advantage on this attack because of Guiding Bolt landing: Atk: 16 Dmg: 5

(I know it would have been more optimal to have Ritin get the first attack, potentially crit, and smite--but that's too meta)

Edwin, out of spell slots, will take a the opportunity to Fire Bolt the thing (might hit Imondo, given their positions?): Atk: 18 Dmg: 4

Ritin, seeing that Imondo has engaged, does the same and attacks the thing with both ends of his staff but doesn't do much with either hit. He yells in frustration.

Sen, seeing that things are not going great at the moment, lets another Guiding Bolt rip, but misses wide. He yells: "Finish it! -- I'm nearly spent"

Total damage: 9
Remaining HP: 13
The Mists
GM, 244 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 18:36
  • msg #421

Re: Into the mists

The thing attack Imondo again, twice with disadvantage, landing once for 9 damage.

I think you missed out on a martial arts attack as a bonus action, unless you just didn't include it.
SIRE
player, 251 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 19:16
  • msg #422

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 421):

I used ki to dodge with my bonus action.

Imondo disengages and moves 15' back.

Edwin fires another mote: 9 damage

Ritin attacks again (doesn't know it's HP, so I am going to waste a smite): 20 damage

That should be it.

Summary of spent resources:

Imondo: 2 ki, 9 hp
Ritin: 1 smite
Emondo: 2 spell slots (none remain)
Sen: 2 spell slots (1 remains)
The Mists
GM, 245 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 19:32
  • msg #423

Re: Into the mists

Ok, you beat it down, and it sloughs off ragged clothing and rotten body parts, biological sludge oozes into the shallow water.

All goes still and you see rivulets of dark blood emanating from the mass. Then you notice that they are not actually dispersing anymore, but rather coalescing and pulsing toward the mass. The pulse feels like a heartbeat.

This doesn't feel like turn-order level of something happening, more of a 'if left unchecked' type of problem.
SIRE
player, 252 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 19:40
  • msg #424

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 423):

I can do a check (you call it) to determine this, but seems like a regeneration thing.

I have to go scrub the treasure we found in the lower levels/things we saw to figure out what I'm going to do. Will take a minute.
The Mists
GM, 246 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 20:02
  • msg #425

Re: Into the mists

Arcana
Nature
Or
Intelligence
Check
SIRE
player, 253 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 20:12
  • msg #426

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 425):

OOC: Same modifiers for Edwin, when he gets there

Imondo yells for Edwin, who rushes downstairs. In the meantime, Sen looks at the blood, grimaces, rolls up his sleeves, and takes his hand axe from his belt. Seeing this, Imondo pulls the silver shortsword (forgot I had this!) and follows Sen's lead in dismembering the body

OOC: Assuming all of that is uneventful....

When Edwin arrives, Imondo and he start talking about what this thing could be, and what could be happening with the blood. Seeing that Edwin is trying to recall some information, Sen says a brief prayer for Edwin's memory. OOC: Imondo Helps Edwin with a Nature check, and Sen casts Guidance: 19

Unless the result of that check is quite surprising, Ritin chimes in: "Those voices said that one must die...Maybe we should pile this thing onto the altar?"

Sen shakes his head: "Who knows what would come of that? But we can at least put it on a funeral pyre of the furniture around. Go grab some wood from the barricade we made."

Ritin shrugs and does so. Edwin fires flame bolts at the pieces of the monster as they get piled up.
The Mists
GM, 247 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 20:19
  • msg #427

Re: Into the mists

Your nature check determines that this thing almost seems like some corpse version of a shambling mound. With a shambling mound, if you don’t destroy the root stem, it will eventually regrow into a new shambling mound. You infer that this version might involve a heart.

Moving the pieces of this thing around makes you want to throw up, it is so putrid.
SIRE
player, 254 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 20:30
  • msg #428

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 427):

Gruesome business...

We continue the dismemberment/pyre plan, but once Ritin and Edwin have piled up some wood and gotten a fire going, they would go look for a "heart" in its lair where we woke it up.
The Mists
GM, 248 posts
Tue 21 Sep 2021
at 20:39
  • msg #429

Re: Into the mists

The heart is in the middle of the mass. Burning it will do the job so will unburying and stabbing it.
SIRE
player, 255 posts
Wed 22 Sep 2021
at 00:13
  • msg #430

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 429):

When it is found, the group has an argument which (being lazy) results in Ritin making a very charming argument about stabbing the heart on the altar. So we do that--but Sen makes him do it while the rest of the group is back in the jail.

OOC: I can't resist, which I know is stupid....
The Mists
GM, 249 posts
Wed 22 Sep 2021
at 18:27
  • msg #431

Re: Into the mists

When Ritin stabs the heart on the alter, a level of tension in the air that you were not aware of dissipates which feels similar to when Rose and Thorn were laid to rest.

Ritin then hears what he thinks is a wry chuckle and a hard, but refined voice whisper in his mind, "Yes, poetic."
SIRE
player, 256 posts
Wed 22 Sep 2021
at 18:51
  • msg #432

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 431):

Ritin uses Divine Sense, immediately, and then notifies the party of what he heard.
The Mists
GM, 250 posts
Wed 22 Sep 2021
at 19:11
  • msg #433

Re: Into the mists

Ritin smells the noxious odor of death, but is not sure if that is just the ambient smell of the dungeon, or if there is a presence. One wonders if even if this place were scrubbed clean, if this dungeon sacrifice chamber under a haunted mansion will ever not ping.
SIRE
player, 257 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 01:36
  • msg #434

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 433):

Sen says that they should go, now--and everyone agrees. We leave up the tower to see if the hypothesis that the monster had to be defeated to stop the house chaos panned out.
The Mists
GM, 251 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 03:23
  • msg #435

Re: Into the mists

I forgot that you went up and saw the chaos. I was stuck for a long time because I didn't want to play that out.

The house is back to 'normal'. When you find a window and look out, the mists aren't oppressing the house anymore.
SIRE
player, 258 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 04:05
  • msg #436

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 435):

We cautiously exit, but check each room for changes before we leave--particularly the kids
The Mists
GM, 252 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 04:18
  • msg #437

Re: Into the mists

Do you prefer milestone of XP?

I am OCD enough that I kind of prefer XP, I am thinking that we track it in the Character description along with random character effects, like whatever is going on with Edwin.

If milestone, I think the Edwin bump will washout right now, I think that him always being a level ahead will be bigger and bigger. I would rather dole out golpes (pronounced goal-pays) of xp, like maybe 500xp for random character compromises.

In any case, take a look at SIRE character description. You are all out of the house and lvl 3.
******************

Down the street you hear a woman wailing. It dawns on you that it is the same wailing from before, but that when you got beguiled by the house, you became convinced that it was the ghost children crying. In fact, you see a woman down the street wailing and begging random passerby's for help. They clearly react to her enough to move away and generally avoid her. Not like they are afraid, but that nobody seems to be able to make her problems, into their problems.

The woman, like everyone else, is dressed in poor, drab clothing. However, she looks worse for wear and quite distraught.
SIRE
player, 259 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 19:16
  • msg #438

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 437):

I think I like milestone, but I reserve my right to hate it at a later date. The thing that I think I like about it is that it explicitly creates a way to say that I earned a level without tacitly requiring combat to do it.

*****

If there are passersby, I assume it is a main thoroughfare. We follow that thoroughfare, but Imondo and Sen pay attention to what she is saying. Ritin wants a drink and Edwin wants to rest--so I think we're looking for an inn.
The Mists
GM, 253 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 22:21
  • msg #439

Re: Into the mists

It is a thoroughfare, but that doesn't mean the streets are bustling. It is scant enough that anyone can walk through the streets without risking eye contact with anyone else. It is starting to get dark, and you see a lit building that appears to be an inn, as you approach you hear music, which is at once sad and upbeat. The wailing woman sees you and rushes toward you, but doesn't make physical contact, you all look rich and dangerous to her. "Outsiders, surely you've come to help me."

You are a breadth of a street away from the inn.

Note to Edwin, some people in the street seem... dimmer than other people. You can't put your finger on the difference yet.
SIRE
player, 260 posts
Thu 23 Sep 2021
at 22:45
  • msg #440

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 439):

Imondo starts to respond, but Sen beats him to it: "We haven't come to help you, no. What do you need help with?"

Edwin looks for patterns: Clothes, gender, age, are they interacting with others/thing, etc.

Ritin, still spooked by the voice, looks anxious to get into the light of the inn, but waits for her reply and the remainder of the party.
The Mists
GM, 254 posts
Fri 24 Sep 2021
at 00:01
  • msg #441

Re: Into the mists

She's hysterical. Not like funny, but like mad with emotion due to her uterus (little history, anatomy, etymology joke there). You see that she is carrying a malformed doll.

"I tried to hide her away, because I knew... She was safe for so long, but now she's gone! She left me and he took her. He took her! Ruin!"

After she says this, the people nearby look more shaken and a woman even turns around walks the other way, furtively looking toward the mountains.

Edwin roll and insight check.
SIRE
player, 261 posts
Sat 25 Sep 2021
at 17:22
  • msg #442

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 441):

OOC: Imondo being an orphan is driving some of this

Ritin longingly looks toward the inn as Imondo steps forward. Sen puts a hand on Imondo's arm to stop him, saying, "mind your own business..." under his breath as a warning, but Imondo sidesteps the gesture without breaking stride. He walks behind her and sternly says "Face me." Assuming she does, he channels a monk from his childhood who had shown a younger Imondo the power of tough love and says: "Calm yourself." Edwin nods from behind (Help action?) and, once she is calm, Imondo says: "Tell me your tale."
The Mists
GM, 255 posts
Sat 25 Sep 2021
at 20:26
  • msg #443

Re: Into the mists

She calms down, then tells you her name is Mary.

Mary hid her beloved daughter, Gertruda, in this house for the girl’s entire life. Gertruda, now a teenager, broke out of the house a week ago and has not been seen since. Her mother fears that Strahd has her as Gertruda is very beautiful, and due to her sheltered life, was very curious about Strahd and generally naive about the lands of Barovia. Mary is convinced that he has her.
SIRE
player, 262 posts
Sat 25 Sep 2021
at 21:01
  • msg #444

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 443):

Sen steps up and says: "If you give us her description and a memento to prove we have spoken with you, we will take a message to her and ask about her whereabouts as we travel Barovia. We have plans to take in some of the breadth of Barovia based on the tales of the Vistani, and may more effectively help you find someone who can help assist you than you simply begging strangers in the middle of street. Stay home, and stay safe, in case she returns to you on her own volition.

That said, if the master of these lands has taken an interest in her, then you may as well be making bread from wool, or asking the smith to tailor your clothes. We are powerless before him."
The Mists
GM, 256 posts
Sat 25 Sep 2021
at 23:27
  • msg #445

Re: Into the mists

She describes Gertruda

(this pic is obviously with her dressed better than she would as a peasant)

Then she gives you the doll. "It used to be mine and I passed it to her." The malformed doll has a strange leer and wears a sackcloth dress.

When you talk about the hopelessness if Strahd has her, see quietly weeps and stumbles away.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:41, Sat 25 Sept 2021.
SIRE
player, 263 posts
Sat 25 Sep 2021
at 23:37
  • msg #446

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 445):

Imondo takes the doll before Sen can, and ties it to his belt in a conspicuous place (right up front, facing out, I'm thinking).

Ritin says: "Let's get inside..."

Everyone secures their belongings and then goes into the inn.
The Mists
GM, 257 posts
Sun 26 Sep 2021
at 00:04
  • msg #447

Re: Into the mists

A single shaft of light thrusts illumination into the main square, its brightness looking like a solid pillar in the heavy fog. Above the gaping doorway, a sign hangs precariously askew, proclaiming this to be the Blood on the Vine tavern.

The tavern building is about 60 feet square. Close inspection of the sign reveals that it originally read “Blood of the Vine.” (An “n” has been scratched over with the “f.”) This once finely appointed tavern has grown shoddy over the years. A blazing fire in the hearth gives scant warmth to the few huddled souls within. They include the barkeep, three Vistani sitting together, and another man.

There is a duo playing music a woman and a man, dressed in black clothes which are a fine cut, but have seen multiple repairs. They wear white and black face paint to look like skeletons.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9D1uUQ5YV4
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:07, Sun 26 Sept 2021.
SIRE
player, 264 posts
Sun 26 Sep 2021
at 00:58
  • msg #448

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 447):

The party, except for Sen, move into the room and look for a table. Sen hovers at the door for the duration of the song, hanging on the words, concerned that nothing that happens here is coincidental or what it seems.

Once settled, Ritin uses Divine Sense.

Sen walks to the bar and waits for the barkeep to make his way over.
The Mists
GM, 258 posts
Sun 26 Sep 2021
at 08:48
  • msg #449

Re: Into the mists

At the bar, there is a pudgy man cleaning glasses, one after another. He looks up and see Sen, meeting his gaze for a few seconds, then returns to cleaning glasses. He looks very dull. He is dull enough that Edwin feels like he falls into the dull category of people he sees as opposed to… alive people?

Nothing pings on Divine Sense.

The non-vistani man pulls up a chair to your table and enthusiastically introduces himself as Ismark Kol­yanovich, “But people call me Ismark the Lesser, because my father is burgomaster of this village. My father is Kolyan Indirovich. I know this is strange thing to start telling people first thing, but you look to be not from here, so maybe you don’t know this thing yet.

He signals the barkeep and says, “Arik, bring these new friends of mine some wine, I am paying for this.” The barkeep continues to ignore and Sen and starts getting cups ready, he drops them off at the table with a bottle, then seems to do some mental arithmetic then gets another cup, realizing that Sen is part of the group.

“Well, no you are asking what does this man want, as well you should! Nothing comes without price in Barovia! I would hope to make exception, but my situation is dire, so you must listen to my plea. I am going to take my adopted sister Ireena to other village, Vallaki. Unlike this village of Barovia, it is not in shadow of the castle, and for this I hope farther from the grasp of the Lord of the Castle, who desires her. She is, of course vulnerable if we travel, I would pay you to help us.”
SIRE
player, 265 posts
Sun 26 Sep 2021
at 17:49
  • msg #450

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 449):

OOC: Forgot to do that roll. Just did it. Rolled an unmodified 10 (don't remember Edwin's WIS mod).

Sen scratches his chin, gives the bartender a look of regret, and goes to the table after saying: "We intend on staying the night."

As Sen gets to the table, he hears Ritin beginning to explain that we are strangers. Sen interrupts, and is presumably still covered in shambling mound gore. Not trying to be quiet about it, he says: "We have been asked for help 3 times since entering these lands, and we have not cleaned up from the first time at the Durst house. Twice, it has been people attempting to evade the will of the land. It seems Barovia is full of desperate people for them to seek help from strangers, and traps and horrors for the helpful."

Ritin, attempting to salvage this, cracks a joke: "What Sen is trying to say in his own curmudgeonly way is that we have some suggestions for your father about improvements that he might consider to the welcoming committee."

Sen smirks and sits down, hopefully alleviating some tension, and Edwin gives a polite chuckle. Imondo is stony, and is concerned about being overheard.

Assuming the tension passes, Ritin says: "We have some questions about Barovia and these lands, quite apart from your request, though we may be traveling in that direction--partially depending on what you can explain."
The Mists
GM, 259 posts
Tue 28 Sep 2021
at 04:20
  • msg #451

Re: Into the mists

"Yes, it is true, most everyone here is desperation, most live in quiet desperation. Mad Mary out there is in hysterical desperation. Our ability to help ourselves is limited, especially us who live under the shadow of the dark lord. There are great dangers in the lands of Barovia, but the village of Barovia has the most despair."

You chat with him and ask a series of questions based on what you have seen and what want to know. He tells you the following, which is 'what barovians know'

The Devil Strahd
About Strahd and vampires, the Barovians believe the following:

    Strahd von Zarovich is a vampire, and he dwells in Castle Ravenloft. No one is welcome at the castle.
    Strahd is a curse placed on the land because of a forgotten sin of the Barovians’ ancestors.
    A vampire must rest in its coffin during the day. At night, it can summon wolves and vermin to do its bidding. A vampire can transform into a bat, a wolf, or a cloud of mist. In its humanoid form, it can dominate you with its powerful gaze.
    A vampire can’t enter a residence without an invitation from one of the occupants.
    Running water burns a vampire like acid, and sunlight causes a vampire to burst into flame.

The Land of Barovia
Barovians know the following facts about their homeland:

    Anyone who attempts to leave the land of Barovia begins to choke on the fog. Those who don’t turn back perish.
    Many strangers have been drawn to Barovia over the years, but they all die or disappear before long.
    Wolves, dire wolves, and werewolves prowl the Svalich Woods, and hungry bats fill the skies at night.
    The village of Barovia sits at the east end of the valley. Its burgomaster is named Kolyan Indirovich.
    The town of Vallaki lies in the heart of the valley. Its burgomaster is named Baron Vargas Vallakovich.
    The fortified village of Krezk lies at the west end of the valley and is built around an old abbey. The village burgomaster is named Dmitri Krezkov.
    Wine is the lifeblood of Barovia—for some, it is the only reason to keep living. Barovian taverns get their wine from the Wizard of Wines winery near Krezk.
    A mad wizard of great power haunts the foothills of Mount Baratok. He is an outsider and no friend of the vampire’s.

BAROVIAN CALENDAR

Barovia has its own calendar, and Barovians are accustomed to measuring the passage of time in “moons” instead of months. As a measurement of time, each moon begins on the first night of a full moon and lasts a full lunar cycle. A year consists of twelve moons, or twelve lunar cycles.

Strahd was born in 306. In 346, he inherited his father’s crown, lands, and army. Strahd conquered the valley in 347, finished construction of Castle Ravenloft in 350, and died and became a vampire in 351. The current year is 735.

Beliefs and Superstitions

Barovians have deep-rooted religious beliefs and superstitions that they pass down from one generation to the next:

    Two divine forces watch over the Barovian people: the Morninglord and Mother Night.
    Before the curse of Strahd befell the land, the Morninglord watched over the Barovian people from sunrise until sundown. Now, the sun has not shone unobscured for centuries, and the Morninglord no longer answers their prayers.
    The presence of Mother Night is felt most strongly between dusk and dawn, although nighttime prayers to her go unanswered. It is widely believed that she has forsaken the Barovian people and sent the devil Strahd to punish them for their ancestors’ offenses.
    Spirits drift along the Old Svalich Road toward Castle Ravenloft in the dead of night. These phantoms are all that remain of Strahd’s enemies, and this damnable fate awaits anyone who opposes him.
    The Vistani serve the devil Strahd. They alone are allowed to leave Barovia.
    Never harm a raven, lest ill fortune befall you!

Here is a pic of barovians (these ones looke well-to-do):

SIRE
player, 266 posts
Tue 28 Sep 2021
at 21:44
  • msg #452

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 451):

quote:
The Vistani serve the devil Strahd. They alone are allowed to leave Barovia.


At this, Edwin and Ritin both turn and look at the Vistani in the room. Edwin turns back to Ismark and asks: "Then why are you not concerned about making plans to evade Strahd in their presence?"

quote:
Wolves, dire wolves, and werewolves prowl the Svalich Woods, and hungry bats fill the skies at night.


At this, Sen pulls out one of the black books from the Durst house and asks for a sketch of the area. We've got a valley with three towns, some mountains and some woods. Trying to get a sense of placements, distances, etc.

quote:
The fortified village of Krezk lies at the west end of the valley and is built around an old abbey. The village burgomaster is named Dmitri Krezkov.


Imondo asks how long it takes to deliver an urgent message by horseback between each of the towns.

quote:
Wine is the lifeblood of Barovia—for some, it is the only reason to keep living. Barovian taverns get their wine from the Wizard of Wines winery near Krezk.


Ritin asks why it all comes from one place, and why this inn changed its name.

quote:
A mad wizard of great power haunts the foothills of Mount Baratok. He is an outsider and no friend of the vampire’s.

Edwin asks why the wizard is allowed to remain, particularly in open animosity with Strahd. Are these lands not totally under his control? Ritin follows up with a worried: "Does he know everything that happens? Magically?"

quote:
Strahd conquered the valley in 347

Edwin asks about the law in Strahd's domain--what purpose it serves, if Strahd enforces it, if Strahd adheres to it, if the Borovian law was replaced or allowed to continue under new leadership, etc. Ritin, seeing where Edwin is going, asks about the Durst family, living heirs to the Durst estate, and whether there would be claims made on any property that we've found inside the Durst house. We do not, after all, want to be accused of theft. If the answer is dodgy, we ask directly about who has a legitimate claim on the Durst family windmill.

quote:
These phantoms are all that remain of Strahd’s enemies

Sen: Are these phantoms hostile? Do they communicate?
The Mists
GM, 261 posts
Wed 29 Sep 2021
at 02:07
  • msg #453

Re: Into the mists

quote:
quote:
The Vistani serve the devil Strahd. They alone are allowed to leave Barovia.


At this, Edwin and Ritin both turn and look at the Vistani in the room. Edwin turns back to Ismark and asks: "Then why are you not concerned about making plans to evade Strahd in their presence?"


"The rats in the walls can be his spies, most people try to minimize their contact with him. But yes, it is why we are talking quietly" (good point, we will assume that there is enough distance, plus instrumental music in the background that it is not obvious)

quote:
quote:
Wolves, dire wolves, and werewolves prowl the Svalich Woods, and hungry bats fill the skies at night.


At this, Sen pulls out one of the black books from the Durst house and asks for a sketch of the area. We've got a valley with three towns, some mountains and some woods. Trying to get a sense of placements, distances, etc.


Ismark motions to an old map on the tavern's wall. (See new Game Map thread)

quote:
quote:
The fortified village of Krezk lies at the west end of the valley and is built around an old abbey. The village burgomaster is named Dmitri Krezkov.


Imondo asks how long it takes to deliver an urgent message by horseback between each of the towns.


Sample Travel Times (So, at Fast pace, it would take 6 hours to get to Krezk)

    From the Village of Barovia to River Ivlis Crossroads: 1 hour.
    From the Village of Barovia to Vallaki: 5 hours, 45 minutes.
    From the Western Gate to Vallaki: 2 hours, 30 minutes.
    From the Western Gate to Castle Ravenloft: 1 hour.
    From Vallaki to Krezk: 2 hours, 25 minutes.
    From the Village of Barovia to Krezk: 8 hours, 10 minutes.
    From Tser Pool to Tser Falls: 25 minutes.
    From the Luna River Crossroads to the Raven River Crossroads: 1 hour, 30 minutes
    From Krezk to the Wizard of Wines winery: 1 hour, 45 minutes.

quote:
quote:
Wine is the lifeblood of Barovia—for some, it is the only reason to keep living. Barovian taverns get their wine from the Wizard of Wines winery near Krezk.


Ritin asks why it all comes from one place, and why this inn changed its name.


"That I do not know. Everyone seems to do what ever it is they do to subsist. Who knows how to make wine? All land outside a village is dangerous, the average Barovian will not put himself in jeopardy to obtain land and start a new venture of which he knows nothing. They do not want to attract attention to themselves. Those are my guesses, I have never thought on this before.

"Blood on the Vine, Blood of the Vine. Dark humor I suppose. The latter implies that the vine is a vein, I suppose. I have not thought on this before, either. It is not my business."

quote:
quote:
A mad wizard of great power haunts the foothills of Mount Baratok. He is an outsider and no friend of the vampire’s.

Edwin asks why the wizard is allowed to remain, particularly in open animosity with Strahd. Are these lands not totally under his control? Ritin follows up with a worried: "Does he know everything that happens? Magically?"


"Who can say? Strahd lures adventurers in and they challenge him, but they die. They are enemies until he is ready for them not to be. Everyone is here at the dark lord's pleasure. Perhaps the wizard is more powerful. All hope stems from the belief that there are forces greater than him and all despair stems from seeing that hope snuffed out again and again. It is perhaps the reason for many of the happenings in Barovia. He has spies. Maybe this is cover. Maybe he knows anyway. Who can say?"

quote:
quote:
Strahd conquered the valley in 347

Edwin asks about the law in Strahd's domain--what purpose it serves, if Strahd enforces it, if Strahd adheres to it, if the Borovian law was replaced or allowed to continue under new leadership, etc. Ritin, seeing where Edwin is going, asks about the Durst family, living heirs to the Durst estate, and whether there would be claims made on any property that we've found inside the Durst house. We do not, after all, want to be accused of theft. If the answer is dodgy, we ask directly about who has a legitimate claim on the Durst family windmill.


"The Burgomasters run the villages. If Strahd is displeased, he will make it clear. As far as property claims, if it is outside of a villages, and it is of any value, it is probably occupied. Everything belongs to Strahd. If you destroy someone he considers an ally, he may admire your strength and take it in stride, or become displeased with you. You must understand, he knows you are here. If he walked through that door, he could murder us all. There are no courts for this. His word is law. He is like god in this valley. He may be civilized one moment and entreat with you as a fellow lord, and rip your throat out the next, drinking your blood as your mother weeps. You understand this? We are like rats. Numerous, potentially troublesome, but ultimately no threat. Something that can be crushed under boot. I do not wish to discourage you. But it is like you are in labrynth with Minotaur. You know that story? It is his domain, you will probably die. There is ocean all around, though here it is mist. I, myself, have learned the sword and I will die in blood, as many do, but I choose this fate, it will not be in terror, but in defiance."

"That Windmill, in the middle of the map? The Vistani say it should be avoided at all costs. I know nothing more."

"The Durst house? That is an evil place. You entered and left? I have seen that house burn down, then rebuild itself. They say it can trap passersby and... consume them. No wonder you look like shit."

quote:
quote:
These phantoms are all that remain of Strahd’s enemies

Sen: Are these phantoms hostile? Do they communicate?


"This I do not know."
SIRE
player, 267 posts
Wed 29 Sep 2021
at 19:34
  • msg #454

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 453):

Imondo shakes his head after studying the map for a while: "There is little room for private travel without an experienced woodsman and, probably not even then."

Sen and Edwin nod, and Ritin grimaces, until he hears Imondo say (after sitting): "If we can escort her to the next town, it is Strahd's will. If we can't, that is also Strahd's will. I believe we should escort the woman."

Ritin interjects: "--but only after we have prepared ourselves for travel and determined what else we should do in town here. Who knows when we will be back again." Then, with exaggerated terror that is attempting to mask how he really feels, Ritin adds: "If ever."

None of the party laugh, and Ritin looks slightly ashamed. Sen, after a moment, asks whether Ismark intended to take the Tser Pool road or the longer way around, how much a delay Ismark can tolerate, and what is driving the urgency of the departure.

OOC: I'm interested in Barovian amenities and noteable characters. I also am interested in speaking with the Vistani if/when this conversation wraps up and the opportunity presents itself.
The Mists
GM, 262 posts
Sat 2 Oct 2021
at 04:22
  • msg #455

Re: Into the mists

Imondo shakes his head after studying the map for a while: "There is little room for private travel without an experienced woodsman and, probably not even then."

Sen and Edwin nod, and Ritin grimaces, until he hears Imondo say (after sitting): "If we can escort her to the next town, it is Strahd's will. If we can't, that is also Strahd's will. I believe we should escort the woman."

Ritin interjects: "--but only after we have prepared ourselves for travel and determined what else we should do in town here. Who knows when we will be back again." Then, with exaggerated terror that is attempting to mask how he really feels, Ritin adds: "If ever."

None of the party laugh, and Ritin looks slightly ashamed. Sen, after a moment, asks whether Ismark intended to take the Tser Pool road or the longer way around, how much a delay Ismark can tolerate, and what is driving the urgency of the departure.

OOC: I'm interested in Barovian amenities and noteable characters. I also am interested in speaking with the Vistani if/when this conversation wraps up and the opportunity presents itself.


quote:
Ritin interjects: "--but only after we have prepared ourselves for travel and determined what else we should do in town here. Who knows when we will be back again." Then, with exaggerated terror that is attempting to mask how he really feels, Ritin adds: "If ever."


Ismark breaks the tension, syaing, "Haha, indeed, my friend!" and raises his wine cup, then takes a drink.

"It would be better, I think, to avoid the Tser Pool. The Vistani have an encampment there. As you say, it would be best to keep to ourselves in this errand."

"People keep to the road, except for bandits or other dangerous people, and other things."

"We plan to leave in the morning, nighttime travel is not wise in these lands."

Places of interest in the Village of Barovia:

Bildrath’s Mercantile - "If you need basic supplies, but it is incredibly overpriced, especially for outsiders."
Church - Barovians shun the church
Burgomaster's house - Where Ismark lives
Blood of the Vine tavern
Cemetery - During daytime, the cemetery is a still and peaceful place. Every night at midnight aparitions appear.
Death House - Durst Manor
SIRE
player, 268 posts
Sat 2 Oct 2021
at 15:21
  • msg #456

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 455):

OK. Imondo asks why the church is shunned, and Sen looks very interested at the talk of the graveyard, but in general we are not in shape to do anything tonight. If he is insistent on leaving in the morning, we would accompany him.

Ritin suggests he might be able to haggle at the shop, but Edwin suggests that Ismark might get better prices by shopping on our behalf, and looks to Ismark for comment
The Mists
GM, 263 posts
Sat 9 Oct 2021
at 01:11
  • msg #457

Re: Into the mists

quote:
OK. Imondo asks why the church is shunned

Ismark frowns and says, "Well, the Priest, Donavich is mad, but I suspect that is on account of his undead son who is locked in the basement, and calls out continually to his father that he is hungry. For blood, I suspect."

quote:
Sen looks very interested at the talk of the graveyard, but in general we are not in shape to do anything tonight. If he is insistent on leaving in the morning, we would accompany him. Ritin suggests he might be able to haggle at the shop, but Edwin suggests that Ismark might get better prices by shopping on our behalf, and looks to Ismark for comment

Ismark frowns again, and says, "Listen the more you find out about anybody or anything around here, the more you will encounter plight and no small degree of dreadful wonder, so I hesitate to tell you much more. But I would like your help. I will try to secure a good price for you, or perhaps we have something suitable at the estate. You are welcome to come and refresh yourselves there tonight as my guests. In the morning you must leave, either with me and my poor sister, or on your own."
SIRE
player, 269 posts
Wed 13 Oct 2021
at 19:56
  • msg #458

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 457):

OOC: I enjoy the Sing Sing Death House reference.

I am going to pre-emptively roll insight checks, since this looks like a bit of a trap:

Edwin (+1): 6
Ritin (+2): 16
Imondo (+6): 24
Sen (+5): 14

Assuming that doesn't turn up anything, Ritin looks to Sen and Imondo who both nod, and Ritin says: "We would be most pleased to be your guests."

And with that, we can be off. There's probably stuff to do in between but, if not, we do intend to escort them. I need to audit my spells for a non-dungeon sitch, but don't let that hold us up.
The Mists
GM, 265 posts
Thu 14 Oct 2021
at 23:18
  • msg #459

Re: Into the mists

Ismark seems genuine, but it is hard to throw off the lingering feeling that there are no good choices. This will manifest different for each character, but the temptation to accept the Barovian model in which nobody has so few problems that they can afford to worry about anyone else's. Imondo's physical scar and Edwin's spiritual came after one day of playing the hero. Like the fruit of the field, standing up first and standing up straight will surely lead you to be cut down first.

When you agree to go with Ismark he gives a warm smile and nods his head in affirmation, saying, "Alright! Dig through the ditches and burn through the witches!"

[after potentially relaxing for a bit in the tavern]

You head out with Ismark to the Burgomaster's manor.

A weary-looking mansion squats behind a rusting iron fence. The iron gates are twisted and torn. The right gate lies cast aside, while the left swings lazily in the wind. The stuttering squeal and clang of the gate repeats with mindless precision. Weeds choke the grounds and press with menace upon the house itself. Yet, against the walls, the growth has been tramped down to create a path all about the domain. Heavy claw markings have stripped the once-beautiful finish of the walls. Great black marks tell of the fires that have assailed the mansion. Not a pane nor a shard of glass stands in any window. All the windows are barred with planks, each one marked with stains of evil omen.

With your passive perception, you discern trampled weeds all around the mansion as well as scores of wolf paw prints and human footprints.
SIRE
player, 270 posts
Fri 15 Oct 2021
at 17:31
  • msg #460

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 459):

Imondo points at the prints and asks: "A battle?"

Edwin stares at all of the damage, somewhat agog at the claw markings on the walls and the general look of a place that has been under siege.

[I'm just reacting as I think I would react when you stop -- I know it's a little tough to do this via post because my curiosity can derail things. Skip ahead at your discretion.]
The Mists
GM, 269 posts
Tue 2 Nov 2021
at 02:23
  • msg #461

Re: Into the mists

Strahd has tested our fortifications a few times. Well, truth be told, more than a few times. Every night for awhile. But has stopped. We do not know why. We feel we are on borrowed time and must leave this place which is in the Shadow of Ravenloft.

(you can react, or more to come and I take you in the house, need to look it up)
SIRE
player, 274 posts
Tue 2 Nov 2021
at 03:23
  • msg #462

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 461):

Sen says: "How do you know this is not a trap?"

Edwin nods once he understands what Sen means, and elaborates: "Giving you the sense it is now or never would be an effective way to lure you out of a place that was adequately defended from being overwhelmed by force. This would be lay the bait for an excellent ambush."

Sen finishes: "Who knows your plans? Or is there so obviously only one hope for those in your current situation, and so our path is, essentially, a matter of public record?"
The Mists
GM, 270 posts
Tue 2 Nov 2021
at 13:53
  • msg #463

Re: Into the mists

"It could be, but I do not think so. I believe the attacks were a form of torture, which eventually claimed my father." He pushes open the door to reveal a well appointed house.

quote:
The interior of the mansion is well furnished, yet the fixtures show signs of great wear. Noticeable oddities are the boarded-up windows and the presence of holy symbols in every room. The burgomaster is in a side drawing room on the floor—lying in a simple wooden coffin surrounded by wilting flowers and a faint odor of decay.


"When he died of stress and worry, the attacks stopped. I fear our time here is limited in any case. Maybe Strahd is trying to force us out. Or maybe he believes that he can pressure me as Burgomaster and I will compromise my principles, as is often the case with those who wish to hold onto any measure of power. Maybe he is letting us wallow in despair. All of the land is his. He is the land. But his attention is greatest in the Shadow of Ravenloft. Perhaps his obsession with my sister is mere diversion which he will be abandoned once she is not under his gaze."

**

As if Ismark's words were a summons, Ireena enters the room, "To hope as much is foolishness. We will leave because it is something we can do, and we must always do what we can. We are constrained by what is right." then she gives a hard, meaningful look to Ismark.

"It's too dangerous. We must leave at first light." -Ismark

"If that is so, then we must do it before first light," Ireena considering the matter settled, she turns to y'all, "Who are our guests?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:03, Thu 04 Nov 2021.
SIRE
player, 275 posts
Thu 4 Nov 2021
at 01:58
  • msg #464

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 463):

We introduce ourselves.

When Ritin introduces himself, he tries to be charming, and Sen follows up the attempt with: "He normally reserves that kind of thing for bearded men." Ritin stammers, blushes, looks angry, opens his mouth to complain, but Sen interjects with: "Not really. I'm just tired of him spreading syphilis I have to cure." Composing himself, Ritin quips: "Paladins need no help curing syphilis, including their own."

Sen shrugs: "Anything to prevent you courting the wrath of the Devil of Ravenloft because of a pretty face."

Edwin is embarrassed by the whole exchange, but Imondo saves the day: "You speak as one with no choices. If you have no choice--even if you are a slave to your own character (looks at Ritin AND Sen), your next steps ARE known. We are here to help, but not to risk all without a thoughtful strategy. If we have time for prudence, we should be thoughtful."

Edwin, recovering himself: "I agree, based on my time here so far. What are the material facts informing your course of action, miss? Perhaps outsiders can see facets to the circumstances we can turn to our advantage."
The Mists
GM, 271 posts
Thu 4 Nov 2021
at 02:08
  • msg #465

Re: Into the mists

She doesn't seem to know how to react to the rude talk. She's not embarrassed, she is just non-reactive.

"My father must be brought to the cemetery for proper burial. Only then will I go to Vallaki. Will you help us in this think?" Hard to tell if she is imploring you or challenging you.


SIRE
player, 276 posts
Thu 4 Nov 2021
at 03:58
  • msg #466

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 465):

Ritin laughs and Sen shoots him a dirty look before explaining: "I follow the path of the grave. It is my sacred duty to see your father, and all soul-bearing creatures, laid to a peaceful rest. I, it seems, am the one with no choice--which my uncouth friend finds funny because I am often the one to advise caution. It is, I suppose, funny.

That said, the manner of our assistance may vary. I would not risk six deaths to prevent one potential undeath against all odds. When did he pass? Why has he not yet been lain to rest? Where are we to bury him and why must it be there? What resistance should we expect? What assistance can we count on, and what resources not present are at our disposal?"
The Mists
GM, 276 posts
Fri 12 Nov 2021
at 21:07
  • msg #467

Re: Into the mists

"The cemetery which is at night beset by aparitions. People fear the adjacent church and it's grounds because the Priest, Donavich, is said to be mad. My brother believes it is not safe for me to leave these walls under any circumstances, unless it is to leave this village. He does not see teh value of having the priest perform last rights and says we should just bury him here-"

Ismark cuts in, "Or bring him with us. But, sister, this man appears to be a man of the cloth, of sorts. Perhaps he can... do... whatever it is you think needs to be done."

"Perhaps, but it will be in the cemetery, if he is amenable. We shall do it on our way out of town, so I may be present."

She looks to Sen expectantly. Ismark raises his hands slightly as a sign of defeat.

Ok, you can react then tell how you want to spend the night, if you will have watches, anything you want to mend or study, or what. They have books and some resources as far as rations, weapons, etc. Tell me what you want and I will tell you if they have it.

You can also bathe yourselves. Oh, one thing I always do, is that clerics always get thaumaturgy, wizards prestidigitation, and druids get druidcraft for free. if you took Prestidigitation, gain another one free, otherwise add it (you can use this to clean your clothes, flavor food, etc).
SIRE
player, 280 posts
Mon 15 Nov 2021
at 16:02
  • msg #468

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 467):

Let's do equipment first.

Glaive
, silvered quarterstaves
, Torches
, oil
, holy water
, garlic
, caltrops
, any armor
, any books
The Mists
GM, 277 posts
Tue 16 Nov 2021
at 04:28
  • msg #469

Re: Into the mists

Roll a separate luck check for the
Glaive (dc 12)
Silvered quarterstaff (dc 16, dc 5 for plain quarterstaff)
Holy water (14)
Caltrops (8)
Armor (padded 3, leather 6, studded 8, hide -, chain shirt 10, scale mail 12, breastplate 16, half plate 18, ring mail 13, chain mail 15, splint -, full plate natural 20) (roll against each type, if you succeed, you can roll for that type one more time only)

Everything else they have for sure.
4d4 Torches
1 barrel oil
What kinds of books?
SIRE
player, 281 posts
Tue 16 Nov 2021
at 21:30
  • msg #470

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 469):

That's 14d20, record all, so I am going to do that:

13:24, Today: SIRE rolled 155 using 14d20 with rolls of 11,6,12,2,19,16,5,20,8,14, 15,5,17,5.

If luck checks have no modification:

Glaive: 11 (fail)
Silvered Qstaff: 6 (fail)
Holy Water: 12 (fail)
Caltrops: 2 (fail)
Padded leather: 19 (success?)
Leather: 16 (success)
Studded: 5 (fail)
Chain shirt: 20 (success)
Scale mail: 8 (fail)
Breastplate: 14 (fail)
Half plate: 15 (fail)
Ring mail: 5 (fail)
Chain mail: 17 (success)
Full plate: 5 (fail)

I'm interested in history books, maps of locations, monster manuals, spellbooks, and journals of note.
The Mists
GM, 278 posts
Tue 16 Nov 2021
at 22:05
  • msg #471

Re: Into the mists

you can attempt a second time on armors that you succeeded on:

Padded Leather
Leather
Chain Shirt
Chain Mail

For your Nat 20 in the Chain Shirt, it has the magical property "Shadowy" which I just made up, it gives you a +1 to stealth checks while wearing it, attunement required. They don't seem to be aware of this property, it was taken from a failed assassin and put in the armory.

quote:
I'm interested in history books, maps of locations, monster manuals, spellbooks, and journals of note.


History: Book of lineage of Burgomaster's family, so history is mixed in
Map: Map of the Village of Barovia, Map of Barovia, roll luck DC 18 for additional location
Monster Manual: Grimm Brothers type of children's stories about monsters
Spellbooks: Roll Luck Check DC 19 (DC 18 for a scroll)
Journals: Only accounts type books
SIRE
player, 282 posts
Thu 18 Nov 2021
at 21:16
  • msg #472

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 471):

I don't think we can actually use any of that armor. None would be an upgrade. We point out the magical property of the chain shirt to the family, however.

Additional rolls (2):

Spellbook: 1
Map: 18

OOC: I wrote those down backward and held myself to the order, though it happened in the only way with a good result.

Imondo asks if the chidren's stories book is for sale, and Edwin asks if it would be ok to read the history in the lineage book (maybe taking it, if it is not too precious).
SIRE
player, 283 posts
Fri 19 Nov 2021
at 04:14
  • msg #473

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 472):

To speed things up, I'm also interested in whether we can have/copy the map, where the amber temple is on the overall map (and what the amber temple is, and why this particular extra map is among their belongings (if they know)
The Mists
GM, 279 posts
Fri 19 Nov 2021
at 13:32
  • msg #474

Re: Into the mists

To be fair, you would have gotten a scroll.

Ok, roll a 1d12 to determine which area has a more detailed map.

I need to determine what they want in exchange for the more valuable items. You can copy the maps.

They kind of look at each other when you mention the amber temple and Ismark looks at you with a weighing look, and asks, "Why are you asking about the Amber Temple? What are your intentions?"
SIRE
player, 284 posts
Fri 19 Nov 2021
at 18:12
  • msg #475

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 474):

Map Roll: 1

Edwin, being the one who mentioned the Amber Temple, talks about how the specters of the Durst children talked about it. IIRC, we learned from the ghost girl that her father believed that the Amber Temple is where Strahd got his power, but had no further information. He leaves out the fact that he has "been" there, which may require a deception roll--depending on how you want to play it.
The Mists
GM, 280 posts
Fri 19 Nov 2021
at 19:18
  • msg #476

Re: Into the mists

Well, that was probably the best roll you could have made.

While looking through old tomes and manuscripts that Ismark and Ireena did not know they had, you find a notebook that is kind of like those scrapbooks of newspaper clippings, in that when you turn the pages, some of the pages fold out. They reveal the many layers and grounds of Castle Ravenloft.

I will have to get you the diagrams, not sure if the player versions are available or not though. But we can proceed without them for now.

Re Amber Temple
"I have heard that rumor as well. In any case, the very little I know about it is that it is a place of great evil and great power. If it did corrupt Strahd, then it is not a place I would recommend you go. All I know is that it is rumored to be on the slopes of Mount Ghakis."
SIRE
player, 285 posts
Sat 20 Nov 2021
at 18:56
  • msg #477

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 476):

OOC: I know it was random, but...

Sen asks of the map: "Are maps of the castle common? If not, how did this one come to be here?"

We copy it, for sure.
The Mists
GM, 281 posts
Sat 20 Nov 2021
at 22:13
  • msg #478

Re: Into the mists

They don’t know, but there are some notations and stuff. You will probably lose out on sleep if you copy it all, but Ismark says you can bring it with and copy it in the other town when y’all get there.

But you can get started on it. It takes 20 minus intelligence check (straight, no proficiency. If you have the sage background, you can roll with advantage) hours to copy. You have about 3 hours of working time before it would cut into long rest. This is like a work efficiency check and organizing a new book with the foods and such.
SIRE
player, 286 posts
Sat 20 Nov 2021
at 22:26
  • msg #479

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 478):

It takes me zero hours.
The Mists
GM, 282 posts
Sat 20 Nov 2021
at 23:02
  • msg #480

Re: Into the mists

I mean, there’s a minimum, but it’s like Edwin used to work as a folding map notebook maker, and he expertly puts together the book and confidently draws every line without mistake.
SIRE
player, 287 posts
Mon 22 Nov 2021
at 17:05
  • msg #481

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 480):

OOC: Back to the game

Sen says: "There are spells that can protect against the perversion of undeath, but I am not sufficiently skilled--and those that are closest to my reach are temporary measures. I suspect the magic would fade and then whatever force animates the dead in the cemetery would claim your father. If your concern is what becomes of him in death, the cemetery seems a bad place to lay him to rest."

Ritin gets involved, seeing the point: "We're here to help, but Sen has a point. If your goal is to give him a peaceful rest, the cemetery seems a bad choice."

Imondo chimes in: "I agree -- but if your purpose is to assert some normalcy in this place, I am sympathetic and will still assist. But if your purpose is defiance, and that defiance is--at best--symbolic, then you shall be risking much for such inspiration, without revealing your plan for how to use the inspiration that we may be risking all to win."

Ritin closes: "What we're saying is that we will help--and we're asking for you to let us help by showing us where you have room to be flexible in your plan. If there's no room for flexibility, then we will need to rest and prepare ourselves for battle."

OOC: Edwin has mending, and I would set a normal watch
- Ritin
- Edwin
- Imondo
- Sen
The Mists
GM, 283 posts
Mon 22 Nov 2021
at 17:27
  • msg #482

Re: Into the mists

"We will bury him in our family plot. Just a simple prayer from Sen will be sufficient, I think, then we won't have to bother with the mad priest. We can rest, and leave before dawn, then be on our way."

Ireena declares.

Ok, so y'all bathe, mend, sleep, and watch.

Why don't you roll a luck check for an encounter, just don't roll a 1. If you do roll a 1, roll a d4 to determine who's watch it occurs on.

I have been mulling over a luck stat system. Thinking about giving each char an 11 which you can boost like any other stat. Thinking also of making the luck feat give you a +1 to Luck and only one re-roll/short rest. Maybe one other thing.

Or roll for the stat (4d6 drop lowest), roll 4 times and assign to the characters of your choice. Thoughts?
SIRE
player, 288 posts
Tue 23 Nov 2021
at 02:37
  • msg #483

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 482):

I rolled a 4.

Re: luck, I think there are a lot of viable ways to do it, but I want to add some optional facets.

- It seems like your CHA should matter. One idea that jumps to mind is that you could choose between replacing a roll or adding your CHA bonus.
- It also seems like you should up your luck stat by being lucky, which I would say happens when you try something brash that succeeds or something that should be a gimme fails
- I would start at 10, and halflings would start at 11.
The Mists
GM, 284 posts
Tue 23 Nov 2021
at 18:26
  • msg #484

Re: Into the mists

I actually do think that cha and luck are in some cases the same, but doesn't makes sense to me, mechanics-wise, that a cha heavy character, like a sorcerer should have some innate luck.

What about this?

You roll a luck stat every short rest, or take a 10 (11 for halflings). I figure it is like half-time logic. Like it can break momentum (for someone on a lucky streak), or pump you up. Or it can just be a reset. So, characters that don't want anything to do with the random whims of luck can just stick to zero.

But in this case, I think it would be a flat 3d6. If you have a positive luck modifier, you can apply it to any roll (after rolling, before success or failure is determined). You can do this once per short rest.

Also once per short rest, you can add your CHA modifier to a Luck roll (in addition to your luck mod, obvi).

Group luck checks will be the average of your luck scores rounded up.

Criticals and fumbles
When you score a critical hit against a foe, your luck score goes up by 1.
When you are critically hit, your luck score goes down by 1.

When you critically miss, roll a luck check DC 10. If you fail, you lose your reaction that turn, or any additional attacks you are entitled to, whichever comes first.
When a foe critically misses against you, roll a luck check DC 10. If you succeed, you can make a melee counter-attack as a reaction.


Luck (Feat)
+1 to your luck ability score
When rolling your luck ability score, roll an extra d6 and keep highest 3d6
You gain one luck point (as per baseline luck feat)
SIRE
player, 289 posts
Wed 24 Nov 2021
at 04:20
  • msg #485

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 484):

I'm not rejecting any of that, needing to think more, but the skim I did gave me this idea: base 10/11, +1 for every successful luck check, -1 for every failed, changes to 2s for criticals, resets to base at any rest. It incents people to keep moving when they have a good day--not sure how to incent continuation on a bad day, though
SIRE
player, 290 posts
Wed 24 Nov 2021
at 04:22
  • msg #486

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 485):

Oh--and the lucky feat lets you either replace luck check rolls or have a variable +1 to +3 bonus on a luck check, or something similar
The Mists
GM, 285 posts
Sun 28 Nov 2021
at 22:54
  • msg #487

Re: Into the mists

The night passes without incident, Edwin reveals a hidden talent for scrapbooking. There are wolf howls through the night, but nothing attacks the manor. Before dawn, Ismark and Ireena are ready to go. They inform you that they are not worried about their father being caught up in the ghostly procession from the graveyard. Those apparitions are adventurer's that have previously come to Barovia and challenged Strahd. As such they include Humans, dwarves, mages, elves, etc. People and races not native to Barovia.

Y'all hoist up the plain casket and start carrying it to the cemetery, carrying also a couple shovels.

You find the family plot and start digging. It is fairly easy work with you working in rotation. Is there anything you would like to do while idle at the graveyard?

After you dig the hole, you see the priest walking up.
SIRE
player, 291 posts
Mon 29 Nov 2021
at 00:02
  • msg #488

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 487):

Nothing I can think of.

Ritin uses Divine Sense as the priest approaches.
The Mists
GM, 286 posts
Mon 29 Nov 2021
at 00:25
  • msg #489

Re: Into the mists

Divine sense does not ping.

The Priest's eyes are red and puffy, but also have dark rings around them. Someone who has been sobbing through the night.

He approaches the grave and stands solemnly, but says nothing. Ismark motions for you to help place the coffin in the earth. The the priest, Donavich begins offering prayers to the Morninglord to deliver the Burgomaster's soul from Barovia.

After you bury the coffin, the priest asks, "Will you be accompanying the lord and lady out of town? It is the right thing to do, that they leave. I exhort you to take her to the Abbey in Krezk."
SIRE
player, 292 posts
Mon 29 Nov 2021
at 02:41
  • msg #490

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 489):

Sen looks him dead in the eye and says: "We have heard you are mad, and that these hallowed grounds are overrun with spirits. It will be difficult to take your advice without some way to vouch for your sanity, competence, and good intentions."

Ritin rolls his eyes at Sen, says "Ass..." so all can hear, and steps forward to take over the conversation: "You look like you've had a tough go. You ok?"
The Mists
GM, 287 posts
Wed 1 Dec 2021
at 00:11
  • msg #491

Re: Into the mists

When Sen mentions the priest being mad, Donavich shies away, appearing emotionally wounded by the accusation. Then he glances back at the Church. He then responds simply, "Maybe so. Choose for yourself or take the word of the young Masters here. The only thing a priest can do is offer advice, and it is left to fools to refuse it."

He walks away angrily before Ritin has a chance to try and salvage the social situation.
SIRE
player, 293 posts
Wed 1 Dec 2021
at 00:31
  • msg #492

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 491):

In that case, after he enters the church, Ritin goes up and knocks on the door--alone. If there is an answer, or if there is no answer and the door is open, Ritin pops his head in and says:

"Hello? My friend is blunt and doesn't think about how even statements of fact can be hurtful--and I have always expected that being a priest was a lonely job, listening to the problems of others without anyone of flesh and blood to share your own problems with. I wanted to apologize, say he didn't mean any harm, and thank you for finding it in yourself to come out, despite you obviously going through a trying time. From what I understand, we'll meet again--even if I don't have a pulse when we do."

He pauses a moment to wait for an invitation to come in and chat but, if one doesn't come, he closes the door and returns to the party.
The Mists
GM, 288 posts
Thu 2 Dec 2021
at 17:05
  • msg #493

Re: Into the mists

There's no answer and the door is locked. (I assume you still deliver your message, either way, no response).

A chill wind permeates your clothes with chill, announcing a cold morning.

The others are solemnly waiting for Ritin.

(Assuming you continue on your journey)

As you are leaving the village you see Mad Mary wondering around and the doll feels heavy at Imondo's belt and Edwin pads the map of Ravenloft in his pack.

The landscape is revealed only as much as the mists allow, about a quarter mile in each direction. Dense forest to the north and west, rocky flatlands to the south and east. The budding sun creates a cold gray halo to the east.

About 1/2 mile along the Old Svalich Road, you come upon the River Ivlis.

quote:
This river flows as clear as a blue winter sky through the valley.


An arching stone bridge spans the roughly 50 feet wide river.

Ismark says, "Don't fall it, it's cold and swift. There are sudden swallows that will crack your skull."

The road winds through the woods for a couple miles then the forest opens and you reach a fork in the road.

quote:
An old wooden gallows creaks in a chill wind that blows down from the high ground to the west. A frayed length of rope dances from its beam. The well-worn road splits here, and a signpost opposite the gallows points off in three directions: Barovia Village to the east, Tser Pool to the northwest, and Ravenloft/Vallaki to the southwest.The northwest fork slants down and disappears into the trees, while the southwest fork clings to an upward slope. Across from the gallows, a low wall, crumbling in places, partially encloses a small plot of graves shrouded in fog.


"The Vistani have a camp at Tser Pool. It is best we avoid them."

Do you continue? Is there anything you want to do here, or previously at the bridge?
SIRE
player, 294 posts
Thu 2 Dec 2021
at 18:48
  • msg #494

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 493):

We would continue, but would ask:

  • Who is hung here?
  • Who hangs them?
  • Is it true what they say about vampires and running water?
  • What's their impression of Mary? Imondo points out the doll on his belt and explains that they promised to keep an eye out for her daughter.
  • Why do the people say the priest is mad, since he seems sane? What has he done?
  • Why is it best to avoid the Vistani? They were friendly enough with us.
  • Are there any stories about previous adventurers who came here that are worth sharing as cautionary tales?

The Mists
GM, 291 posts
Thu 2 Dec 2021
at 21:01
  • msg #495

Re: Into the mists

Note that I often start out with slavic type diction for Ismark, which devolves into just normal standard american english, which is why the sentence constructions and punctuation/grammar is sometimes incorrect. So, you know, try it in an accent to make it sound right.

quote:
  • Who is hung here?
  • Who hangs them?

"This, I do not know. Gallows and graveyard have been here as long as I can remember. 'Go down road, turn left at gallows.' See, like sign post. But there is also sign post here, so more like landmark."

quote:
  • Is it true what they say about vampires and running water?

"Depends on what they say. I have heard tell that they cannot cross running water, but then how do they get around Barovia? I do not think that anywhere is forbidden to the Devil in Hell. But I have heard it is true that submerging a vampire in running water will hurt them and eventually kill them if they are left in there for a minute or so. Approximately for as long as their hitpoints divided by 20 times 6 seconds is enough time to kill a vampire with running water, I have heard. Very reliable source, some manual of monsters." ;-)

quote:
  • What's their impression of Mary? Imondo points out the doll on his belt and explains that they promised to keep an eye out for her daughter.

Yes, very sad. But I believe this girl went to Strahd's Castle on her own." Ireena scoffs. "My sister disagrees, but I know of more than one young girl who has hoped to gain the favor of the dark lord with their youthful beauty. Some young men as well. Some very attractive villagers decide it is better to live with the devil in his castle than a life of squalor and eventual death in it's shadow. By all accounts, Mary's daughter was beautiful and very naive. It is possible she is still alive. It is possible she was tortured to death. It is possible the truth is somewhere in between."

Ireena pipes up, "It is possible that he lured her away with magic and or Changed her." Ismark shrugs and nods.

What are your highest passive insight and perception scores?

quote:
  • Why do the people say the priest is mad, since he seems sane? What has he done?

"They also call Mary mad. They are both desperate and have dropped all pretense of stoicism. They have both been robbed of their child but have a fool's hope of having it restored to them, while being helpless to do anything about it. Would this not drive anyone to madness? Mary will cease to be 'mad' when she mourns the loss of her child. The priest... well, someone will need to slay his boy who is now a vampire spawn in the basement, I believe. And his despair will likely turn to rage. I believe that what we saw in the graveyard with the Priest was him acting by rote on instinct."

quote:
  • Why is it best to avoid the Vistani? They were friendly enough with us.

Answered in text, just because you know the police might overhear your plans in public, doesn't mean you would plan a route to the heist through the police station.

"They are pleasant enough, perhaps the most pleasant people in Barovia, but that is because they are not enemies to Strahd and may come and go as they please. But therein also tells why they are not to be trusted."

quote:
  • Are there any stories about previous adventurers who came here that are worth sharing as cautionary tales?

"Yes, I am sure there are. But I find it difficult to remember, I will be honest. Sometimes I think I remember all of you. I have had feelings of deja vu during our time together. But this land is strange, and it is best not to contemplate things that don't seem to make sense, for surely they originate from this cursed land, or it's lord."

As you continue, Imondo glances back and sees that rather than a slack rope hanging from the gallows, he sees a body. It creaks loudly as the hanging body rotates in the wind, and Imondo is transfixed as he sees first a doll hanging from it's belt, then sees it's which is Imondo's face lifeless staring back at him.

The others instinctively turn when they hear the creak, as see the dead body, but to everyone else it looks like a random Barovian. In a blink of an eye, it appears to Imondo to be an unknown Barovian as well.
SIRE
player, 296 posts
Fri 3 Dec 2021
at 16:14
  • msg #496

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 495):

Imondo feels a pang of fear, and then something akin to pride: "If that is my fate, I go to it without giving up." He pats the doll.

Passive Perception: 14 for Imondo (10+Wis, right?)
Passive Insight: 14 for Edwin (10+Int, right?)
The Mists
GM, 292 posts
Fri 3 Dec 2021
at 16:21
  • msg #497

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
Passive Perception: 14 for Imondo (10+Wis, right?)
Passive Insight: 14 for Edwin (10+Int, right?)

+ proficiency bonus, if applicable
Insight is Wisdom too. Investigation is INT.

Do you continue on?
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:22, Fri 03 Dec 2021.
The Mists
GM, 293 posts
Fri 3 Dec 2021
at 16:23
  • msg #498

Re: Into the mists

In any case, 14 is good enough. The insight result is that she is deeply troubled by something. The perception is seeing her hand gingerly touch the side of her neck.
SIRE
player, 297 posts
Fri 3 Dec 2021
at 21:31
  • msg #499

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 498):

For flavor, Imondo notices her touch her neck and finds a quiet moment to mention it to Edwin, his lifelong friend. Edwin puts two and two together, and tells Imondo his suspicion: Ireena has been bitten and is fleeing. More than that, based on Ireena's reaction, the condition of the priest's son, and the priest's admonition...that there is a non-zero chance that the priest understands Ireena's plight and is sending her where he would take his own son if it were possible, not too late, he had the means, or whatever. It's also possible that the attacks stopped as a result of a bite....

Imondo nods and, in another moment of privacy, relays the conjecture to Ritin. Sen is judiciously avoided (though he notices) since he blew the last interaction--and Imondo knows that people are drawn to Ritin's charm, despite Ritin's clear personality flaws. This ultimately leads to Ritin asking the following:

"Why would the priest encourage us so strongly to flee to such a specific place, if all of this land belongs to Strahd? Is there something there which people believe might save, or have saved, his son?"

"How do you know his son is a vampire spawn? I imagine that is information that he would be keeping secret, but you both seem to know -- Were there tell-tale signs of his affliction that people became aware of?"

"What happens to those who are bitten, willingly or otherwise? How long do they typically have before becoming spawn?"
The Mists
GM, 294 posts
Sat 4 Dec 2021
at 17:41
  • msg #500

Re: Into the mists

“Perhaps he feels going to holy ground is the best place for us. I think he believes as we do, that the other villages are not as likely to keep his attention. His son, and others with some outsides, took the fight to Ravenloft and we’re killed. The priests son rose again as a vampire spawn. I believe it happens when their manner of death is being bitten. I do not know if Strahd must will this thing to be done or if it just happens. I do not understand it entirely. We must confess to you that Ireena has been twice bitten. This has not had a lasting effect on her that we know of. We do know know why he torments us in this way. There are tales that say being bitten three times can turn someone into a vampire. I do not know the truth, but this is the reason for my urgency.”
SIRE
player, 298 posts
Sat 4 Dec 2021
at 18:25
  • msg #501

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 500):

Ritin: "I can understand not telling us right away. I'm not sure that I would have done differently in your shoes."

Sen, to Ireena: "I assume it is your wish to be destroyed, rather than captured, should the moment arise?"

Regardless, we keep going where they lead us.
The Mists
GM, 295 posts
Thu 9 Dec 2021
at 02:15
  • msg #502

Re: Into the mists

Ismark scowls and his hand goes to his sword and Ireena looks shocked, but they both quick recover their demeanor.clearly, they have not considered this before. You carry on in quiet.

The path wends up along ridges and among forest for a couple hours until you reach a bridge.

quote:
You follow the dirt road as it clings to the side of a mountain and ends before an arching bridge of mold-encrusted stone that spans a natural chasm. Gargoyles cloaked in black moss perch on the corners of the bridge, their frowns weatherworn. On the mountainous side of the bridge, a waterfall spills into a misty pool nearly a thousand feet below. The pool feeds a river that meanders into the fog-shrouded pines that blanket the valley.

SIRE
player, 299 posts
Thu 9 Dec 2021
at 02:53
  • msg #503

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 502):

Edwin: "Who made this bridge?"
Sen: "Seems very exposed..."
Ritin: "This was the safer path?"


Imondo: "I'll go first."
The Mists
GM, 296 posts
Thu 9 Dec 2021
at 04:06
  • msg #504

Re: Into the mists

“This is the only path. I do not know who made this, or if it was remade. It should be very sturdy, many carts and carriages have crossed this for many years.”

Imondo crosses without incident.
SIRE
player, 300 posts
Thu 9 Dec 2021
at 05:09
  • msg #505

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 504):

Imondo readies a crossbow bolt (mostly a bluff) and stands guard against aerial threats. Sen takes the lead, and Ritin takes the rear, so Edwin and the cargo can be in the middle--Edwin preferably in the rear to split the casters across the siblings in the center.
The Mists
GM, 297 posts
Sat 11 Dec 2021
at 19:12
  • msg #506

Re: Into the mists

Imondo sees nothing as the others cross. The only sounds are the distant falls, a shill wind, and a crow's caw.
SIRE
player, 301 posts
Sat 11 Dec 2021
at 23:26
  • msg #507

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 506):

Imondo stays back a bit, watching for anything or anyone following -- but doesn't let the group get out of sight before he trivially catches up.

15:26, Today: SIRE rolled 20 using 1d20+6.  Imondo Perception.
The Mists
GM, 298 posts
Mon 13 Dec 2021
at 00:18
  • msg #508

Re: Into the mists

Imondo feels confident that nothing is following.
SIRE
player, 302 posts
Mon 13 Dec 2021
at 17:04
  • msg #509

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 508):

Onward, then
The Mists
GM, 299 posts
Thu 20 Jan 2022
at 21:53
  • msg #510

Re: Into the mists

You continue on once again, and travel without incident. You wind through a forest for almost and hour, all the while heading toward the mountains to the west (in which you are in the foothills of). The tress give way to mostly barren and rocky land and winds northward. You pass a fork in the road that your companions don't know anything about, just to stick to the main path. The path appears to be old, but it is hard to tell if it hasn't been overgrown because of any use, or because not much grows around here. On your map (see the map thread), you can just barely see it as a path leading to the windmill, though you see no windmill from the fork, so it must be a ways off, secluded by the land or foliage, or gone.

The path winds, and strike east for a bit then swings back west, thick forest is always to your left. To your north there are some forest and just beyond a giant lake which you see at one point through a large break in the the northern forest.

After a total of about 2.5 hours, you reach Vallaki.


quote:
The Old Svalich Road meanders into a valley watched over by dark, brooding mountains to the north and south. The woods recede, revealing a sullen mountain burg surrounded by a wooden palisade. Thick fog presses up against this wall, as though looking for a way inside, hoping to catch the town aslumber.

The dirt road ends at a set of sturdy iron gates with a pair of shadowy figures standing behind them. Planted in the ground and flanking the road outside the gates are a half-dozen pikes with wolves’ heads impaled on them.

SIRE
player, 303 posts
Tue 8 Feb 2022
at 17:14
  • msg #511

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 510):

I'm back. Catching up on the context.
SIRE
player, 304 posts
Tue 8 Feb 2022
at 17:18
  • msg #512

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 511):

We approach the gate with our faces clearly visible -- Casting light, if needs be.
The Mists
GM, 300 posts
Tue 12 Apr 2022
at 03:43
  • msg #513

Re: Into the mists

This is how it goes.

"Who approaches?"

"Travelers!" -Ismark

*silence*

-cast light-

"We come in peace, and seek refuge from the road."

*murmuring* anyone with a passive perception of 12+ hears, "adventurers"

"Come then, in peace."

The gates open.

I actually think it is the afternoon, but since it is always overcast and misty, it could be kind of dark at anytime of day.
SIRE
player, 305 posts
Tue 12 Apr 2022
at 22:13
  • msg #514

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 513):

Ritin, to Imondo, joking: "I thought that would be more eventful."
Imondo: "Nothing is what it seems."
Sen: "At least he didn't say he was hoping it would be more eventful. That's progress."
Edwin: "I was hoping for some sense of direction, but now we're here and here seems like it was as good as there--and maybe things got interesting there once the six of us had left."

Imondo nods and says: "Where will we be staying. I would like to watch at the walls for a while, if I am permitted. I will meet you there."

OOC: Trying to get a sense of whether we were followed.

Ritin: "An inn sounds lovely. Let's go and get settled, and then our traveling companions can lay out what role, if any, they see us playing in their schemes from here."
The Mists
GM, 301 posts
Wed 13 Apr 2022
at 03:02
  • msg #515

Re: Into the mists

The two guards, one male, one female, carry long pikes and they look at Imondo like, "no, you're not permitted." Then the female says, "You are not permitted. If you want to watch awhile, it will be just outside the gates. Otherwise, move along."

The female guard says, "There is an inn, The Blue Water Inn, near the center of town," she gives you directions, "There is a traveler like you lot there. Well, not just like you, he's got pointed ears."
SIRE
player, 306 posts
Thu 14 Apr 2022
at 17:13
  • msg #516

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 515):

Imondo looks for a high vantage point and, if there is not one, shrugs and follows the rest of the party to the inn.
The Mists
GM, 302 posts
Fri 15 Apr 2022
at 19:51
  • msg #517

Re: Into the mists

There is not really one, unless you wanted to climb a house, which is not necessarily out of the question. Some of the houses are obviously abandoned, and even occupied, villagers might just keep their heads down. That is you 'insight'.

You notice that there are decaying and weathered garlands strung around town, along with a few more wolf heads on poles.
SIRE
player, 307 posts
Fri 15 Apr 2022
at 22:19
  • msg #518

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 517):

We proceed to the inn, but we take a look at the garlands as we go. Garlic?
The Mists
GM, 303 posts
Fri 15 Apr 2022
at 23:15
  • msg #519

Re: Into the mists

If not flowers and colorful leaves, colored bits of cloth and evergreen type wreathes. It looks like there has been some kind of a celebration.

The Inn is at N2 on the Map. You came from the east. N5 is a stockyard:

quote:
This large stockyard has several locked sheds along its periphery and lies adjacent to a roomy warehouse. A wooden sign above the front gate reads “Arasek Stockyard.”

Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words “Rictavio’s Carnival of Wonders.” A heavy padlock secures the back door.



Blue Water Inn:

quote:
Gray smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall.


In the inn (taproom):

quote:
Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques.


Tending bar is a human woman, she looks good-natured, but worn out.

There are about dozen local patrons in the inn. Among them is a colorfully dressed Half-elf who is regaling a few villagers with what sound like outrageous stories. Edwin is once again reminded that some people look -faded- whereas everyone else looks normal.

Ismark and his sister look to y'all expectantly. You get the sense that their plans didn't extend past 'go to Vallaki'.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:04, Mon 18 Apr 2022.
SIRE
player, 310 posts
Mon 18 Apr 2022
at 16:12
  • msg #520

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 519):

OOC: If you can remember, knowing whether a given NPC is faded or not is something I am interested in. Edwin would develop a signal to the rest of the party to convey the info. Does the party look faded to Edwin? Does he look faded to himself in a mirror?

Sen goes to arrange a place to stay the night. He makes small talk with the woman, even straying into being complimentary if she is the type of lady who one might describe as "sturdy." Point being, he is wise enough to ask about her tiredness through a compliment -- something like: "This is a lovely establishment -- I can tell you take pride in your work." (if that's true)

Edwin and Imondo find a table large enough to accommodate the whole group, and Edwin kinda motions for Ismark and his sister to take a seat as well.

Ritin approaches the half-elf's court without intent to interrupt, but wanting to listen and wait for an appropriate moment to introduce himself. If it falls to Ritin to break the silence, he'll do so by coming up with a story of the same vein as the half-elf's -- including recounting the story of what happened at Death House.
The Mists
GM, 311 posts
Tue 19 Apr 2022
at 00:22
  • msg #521

Re: Into the mists

SIRE:
In reply to The Mists (msg # 519):

OOC: If you can remember, knowing whether a given NPC is faded or not is something I am interested in. Edwin would develop a signal to the rest of the party to convey the info. Does the party look faded to Edwin? Does he look faded to himself in a mirror?

OOC: Cool. Nobody of note has been faded. I think there was a worker at the first in that seemed that way. Let's use the word 'dull'. It works better. Also, I refuse to put punctuation inside of quotations unless it is an actual quotation, where the punctuation is part of it.

Imondo notes that dull people seem to be on the edge of stupor. Still aware and alert, but a little slow to react, and slightly less responsive.

The woman thanks you for the compliment and introduces herself as Danika Dorakova, "This is a family owned and operated establishment, so we try to make it like home."

You arrange rooms to stay for the night, one for your party and one for Ismark and Ireena. "I can tell you are not from here, so I will warn you before telling you our rates, adventurers from outside the realm are often surprised at the cost of things here. Your cramped room of four beds runs 1gp a night. If you do not have much coin, we could perhaps work something out. I would not be offended at your skepticism, so if you can ask around. They will tell you the going rate here is normally 1ep per bed."

There is no silence when you approach, awkward or otherwise. His tales are travelog type stories, "I was traveling to a distant mountain city, but he mountain was on an island..." describing vista and the flora/fauna that inhabit the different places he's been. Clearly, if these tales are true, they did not take place in Strahd's realm.

Edwin realizes that he has been sunconsciously categorizing dull people as unimportant, like furniture.
SIRE
player, 311 posts
Tue 19 Apr 2022
at 16:28
  • msg #522

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 521):

Ritin tries to get the half-elf's attention by making eye contact, but if that doesn't work, we waits for the most ludicrous moment to "me too!" the story and get a laugh. It's important that it not ruin the story, that it get a laugh, that it be good natured, and that the intent to turn the interaction into a conversation is clear. I'm going to pre-emptively roll a charisma check:

09:22, Today: SIRE rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  Ritin generic CHA check.\

If I'm proficient, it's a 24.

Sen pays the 1 gold, saying: "I believe you--but at some point we become locals, since nobody ever leaves, right? Do we have to register or something?"

This last is an awkwrd attempt joke, but it is not funny because Sen is not funny.

Does Edwin look dull to himself in a mirror? Does Imondo thing that Edwin seems a little slow to react/less responsive?

Sen makes tavern-keeper small talk after paying for the room -- People we should know in town, what the garlands are for, other strange happenings in the area, etc.
The Mists
GM, 312 posts
Tue 19 Apr 2022
at 22:11
  • msg #523

Re: Into the mists

I would say it would be a straight CHA check.

The half elf laughs, as do the others. He winks at you and continues with his story. The wink means, "let's chat later".

Info dump to come.

Sen roll an Insight, perception and persuasion while talking to the barkeepess.
SIRE
player, 312 posts
Tue 19 Apr 2022
at 22:16
  • msg #524

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 523):

Insight: 8
Perception: 15
Persuasion: 11
The Mists
GM, 313 posts
Wed 20 Apr 2022
at 05:37
  • msg #525

Re: Into the mists

Edwin looks normal to himself.

quote:
    The Blue Water Inn (area N2) offers food, wine, and shelter to visitors. A stranger with pointed ears is staying there. He came to Barovia from a distant land, riding into town on a carnival wagon.

    The burgomaster, Baron Vargas Vallakovich, has decreed that the Festival of the Blazing Sun will be held in the town square (area N8) in three days. The previous festival, which he called the Wolf’s Head Jamboree, was less than a week ago.

    Vallaki has had at least one festival every week for the past several years. Some Vallakians believe that the festivals keep the devil Strahd at bay. Others think they provide no protection or benefit whatsoever.

    Those who speak ill of the festivals are declared by the burgomaster to be in league with the devil Strahd and arrested. Some are thrown in the stocks (area N8), while others are taken to the burgomaster’s mansion so that the baron can purge them of their evil.

    It’s too dangerous to go fishing on Lake Zarovich (chapter 2, area L) , but the threat of Strahd’s wolves hasn’t stopped Bluto Krogarov, the town drunk, from trying. He sets out each morning and returns every evening, but hasn’t caught any fish in a while.

Lady Fiona Wachter hates the burgomaster. She owns an old house in town (area N4) but rarely leaves her estate. Her two adult sons, Nikolai and Karl, are local troublemakers.

    There’s a Vistani camp in the woods southwest of town (area N9). The Vistani there aren’t very friendly. Vistani aren’t welcome in Vallaki.


"Strange happenings? You will have to narrow it down. What is your interest? Why are you here?"

You notice that a man in the kitchen pokes his head out to see who is chatting with Danika. After he disappears back into the kitchen, you can still hear him near the doorway, eavesdropping.

Danika is more cautious than what you are used to in an innkeeper, but more open than an average Barovian.
The Mists
GM, 314 posts
Wed 20 Apr 2022
at 05:49
  • msg #526

Re: Into the mists

After a couple stories about Waterdeep or whatever the eff, the half-elf bard(?) wraps up and dismisses the, "If you'll excuse me, I have a meeting," and he nods to your party, minus Sen who is talking to Danika.

He is seated at a 6 seater rectangular table which is in sort of a cove as the wall is built out in one section of the south side of the inn (I didn't describe that well, it doesn't matter, there is a measure of privacy).

"Hello, my name is Rictavio. What can you do for you?"
SIRE
player, 313 posts
Wed 20 Apr 2022
at 16:26
  • msg #527

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 526):

Ritin laughs: "I'm not sure, but everyone seems to think that you are we are alike, so we were interested to say hello. My grumpy friend over yonder (points at Sen) would probably object to being so forthright, but, well, we followed some Vistani here thinking we'd have a little light adventure..."

Here Imondo breaks in: "We were warned."

And Ritin continues: "Well, we thought we were up to whatever might come our way, but now we're here and everyone seems very....uninspired....to have adventurers in their midst. Near as I can tell, people are most excited to have a new source of coin to price gouge. We just escorted these two here on a very uneventful trip..."

Imondo raises his eyebrows in mild objection, there, but says nothing

"...and are wondering what we've gotten ourselves into and, probably more important, how we can get ourselves out. What we've seen....and heard....so far has been troubling."

In a moment of near vulnerability, Ritin gets out a terse "It isn't like the books," drawing a nod from Edwin and a sympathetic look from Imondo.
SIRE
player, 314 posts
Wed 20 Apr 2022
at 18:05
  • msg #528

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 527):

Sen starts out with a: "You may be wondering what brought us here..." kind of a spiel, a little too loud--trying to be heard by the eavesdropper. He wants to filibuster away from actually saying anything while he stands, moves to the door, and opens it to look disapprovingly at the eavesdropper.

Rather than fly off the handle, Sen says: "You can hear better without a door in the way, and you can ask questions if you aren't hiding."
The Mists
GM, 315 posts
Wed 20 Apr 2022
at 20:57
  • msg #529

Re: Into the mists

Danika rolls her eyes, "That's just my husband, Urwin. Just healthy suspicion."

Urwin comes out, "Suspicion, curiosity, I have a right to know who's in my inn and who is speaking to my wife. So. You don't deny you are adventurers, if you are up for a task we might have an errand for you, if you are up for it. Thing is, any travel can be dangerous. Sometimes it's uneventful, which itself leaves some folk with some worry. Implies Strahd's favor, so they say. Anyway, we normally have regular shipments of wine from the vineyard, but this last one was late.  Free room and board at our inn if you go and bring us our shipment."
---
Rictavio says, "Get out? Well, who knows what's possible? I'm not sure that's in the cards, though. The vistani enter and leave as they please, or as he pleases, is better said. Maybe if you made a deal with Strahd or were an ally. The game here is seeing how long you can survive, and those who try to get out tend to die faster.

"Who are these two you escorted here? Uneventful is good. Events here almost always involve blood. Even these festivals, ha! What with the severed wolf heads. Seems like an unnecessary provocation to Strahd. The Borgomaster believes if he can make everyone in this village happy, that it will be saved from this plane and be, I don't know, whisked away to heaven or something. Maybe he's right. Who am I to say."

Imondo senses a little ire toward the vistani from Rictavio, and gets the sense that Rictavio is trying to feel you out. Ritin picks up on an underlying sadness from Rictavio.
SIRE
player, 315 posts
Mon 25 Apr 2022
at 21:59
  • msg #530

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 529):

Sen motions to a stool for Urwin to sit down and says: "Your wife is a lovely woman, but I have sworn an oath to never re-marry. My wife passed some years ago. That said, believing your wife will attract the attention of troublesome men is prudent--and I'll help keep the one I brought with me in check." Sen gestures to wherever Ritin is with his thumb in a dismissive way, and follows it up with: "He's a shameless flirt, but a romantic one. He won't attempt anything with a married woman." Looking over his shoulder, he also (with some genuine fondness) says: "Do not tell him I said so, but he has the capacity for greatness. They all do."

Sen breaks from his reverie and says to Urwin: "Tell me more about the job, and the pay. Free room and board indefinitely for bringing a single shipment of wine seems too good to be true, so I must have misunderstood something."

-------

Ritin lets the siblings introduce themselves and say their piece.

Edwin is distracted but then, with a delayed reaction, appears to need to say something urgently. Waiting for a break in the conversation, Edwin says: "When you said "in the cards"--does that mean you are a gambler, or a tarot reader? The vistani who brought us here read us our fortune before we entered these lands--I have never put much stock in such things, as they seem to be parlor tricks."

Imondo nods, leans forward, and quietly says: "The one who read our fortune knew she was doing ill and attempted to dissuade her male companion, but there was some insistence that we be read in. I believe we eagerly took bait....and I am both embarrassed and....perturbed." Here he dips his finger in a drink (or whatever) and draws a little raven head on the table, next to an ear, so Ricktavio can see. He then smears the liquid to erase the traces of the drawing.

We would share the details of our tarot reading in private and with some kind of assurance that Ricktavio is on the up and up.
The Mists
GM, 316 posts
Tue 26 Apr 2022
at 00:51
  • msg #531

Re: Into the mists

"Oh, I do hope of good and great things for you as well! One month free room and board, and if you are still around after that, maybe we will find you another way to earn your keep. How does that sound?

"But I will warn you, normally when something is wrong around here, it is because of something bad. I do not know but that our family winery has not sent the shipment. I am very interested in knowing why, and, truth be told, our stores are nearly depleted. If you bring the shipment, we can go on profiting, and you will have a safe place to stay."

---

Rictavio listens to what you have to say. Passive insight 14+ notices that when you mention the vistani a very brief, but intense sharpness in the eyes.

"Maybe that is where the saying comes from, never thought of it beyond gambling. The vistani do have strange powers and that's fact. I would not trust anything good from the vistani unless in was accompanied by grief.

"But you are right to doubt such fancies. They may be able to read fortunes, but that doesn't mean that your fortune is anything beyond a lighter purse. Maybe they were just bilking you." His eyes look doubtful.

When you draw the raven and ear, his eyes flash upward, maybe he noticed the ravens perching on the inn as well, then he nods. "Have you ever seen a tiger? I have one as part of my traveling carnival. Gonna have to charge you a couple silver to see him," he winks, "Maybe after your meals and a minute to rest? It's not far."

About this time, Ireena and Ismark remind you of their existence, Ismark approaches and says, "My sister and I have taken our meal, and will retire to our room to finish our wine. We wish to visit the abbey tomorrow to see about a greater measure of refuge." Imondo notices an affronted sniff from Danika at the unintended slight. Ireena is already at the door to the inn. Their room is only accessible by an outside flight of stairs.
SIRE
player, 316 posts
Tue 26 Apr 2022
at 20:37
  • msg #532

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 531):

Going to try and fast-forward the Urwin bits: We're down to do the run, but we're going to try and consolidate as much business as we can into the trip. Sen proposes to Urwin that the part be allowed to hang a sign saying that we're making the trip and accepting other trucking/escort duties on a case-by-case, client-by-client basis. It would also be a help if they could get the word out among locals. If asked about secrecy, Sen will shrug and say: "Unless you can think of a way to hide from the land itself, failing three missions in one trip seems a lower-risk plan than three trips, any one of which might fail. Those of you looking to charter our services will have to become comfortable that your fates, and ours, are intertwined for at least the duration of this venture."

-----

Ritin, excited, says: "A tiger?! No -- I would love to see one."
Imondo: "Ritin will buy our tickets."
Edwin: Writes "You will have a monkey" on a scrap of paper, folds it in half, and says -- "This is a prediction, of sorts, of other things we will find in your carnival. If it comes true, will you consider refunding the ticket price? You can, of course, hang on to the paper to ensure no shenanigans."
Ritin sneaks a peek at the paper, which Edwin shows him, looks confused, then smiles and nods: "It's a good and fair bet, but I think you will lose, so we can make it 2-to-1 in your favor, if you like. What's life without a little gambling, after all?"

Imondo: "Let's attend to the carnival before we get settled -- I hate putting my boots back on once they have come off, and Sen is still doing whatever he's up to at the bar."

Ritin nods and, if Rictavio is amenable, we wait. When Ireena and Ismark begin to make motions to leave, Ritin and Edwin wish them a peaceful evening, but Imondo holds up a hand: "Resting apart from us is against my better judgment, but your privacy is your own. Splitting a night into two shifts is more tiring than splitting a night into six or, more prudently, 3 pairs of watchers. If the abbey is your destination, and is able to offer a greater degree of protection, then my preference is to remain together until we see you safely to your sanctuary--even if that means taking you there, now. Your life is your own, and we are strangers here, but I believe that's what he," motioning to Sen "would say. And I agree in this case."
The Mists
GM, 317 posts
Wed 27 Apr 2022
at 06:44
  • msg #533

Re: Into the mists

quote:
Going to try and fast-forward the Urwin bits: We're down to do the run, but we're going to try and consolidate as much business as we can into the trip. Sen proposes to Urwin that the part be allowed to hang a sign saying that we're making the trip and accepting other trucking/escort duties on a case-by-case, client-by-client basis. It would also be a help if they could get the word out among locals. If asked about secrecy, Sen will shrug and say: "Unless you can think of a way to hide from the land itself, failing three missions in one trip seems a lower-risk plan than three trips, any one of which might fail. Those of you looking to charter our services will have to become comfortable that your fates, and ours, are intertwined for at least the duration of this venture."


Urwin nods and says, "That is reasonable, but I beg you not to tarry. I can't see why anyone would have work out that way. There are two hunters which frequent this inn, who would know the most about the lands 'round about here. Szoldar Szoldarovich and Yevgeni Krushkin. They wouldn't take me up on my offer as they have no need rooms, and they themselves sell food to this inn, wolf meat, by the way. If you would like wolf steak that is a cost above normal boarding. Anyway, there is a chance they know of rumors around the area and though they would be better characterized as competition for taking coin for errands in the area, they may yet be of help to you. They offer to serve as guides for 5gp a day, but they will not be found outside the town gates after dark for any price."

quote:
Ritin, excited, says: "A tiger?! No -- I would love to see one."
Imondo: "Ritin will buy our tickets."
Edwin: Writes "You will have a monkey" on a scrap of paper, folds it in half, and says -- "This is a prediction, of sorts, of other things we will find in your carnival. If it comes true, will you consider refunding the ticket price? You can, of course, hang on to the paper to ensure no shenanigans."
Ritin sneaks a peek at the paper, which Edwin shows him, looks confused, then smiles and nods: "It's a good and fair bet, but I think you will lose, so we can make it 2-to-1 in your favor, if you like. What's life without a little gambling, after all?"

Imondo: "Let's attend to the carnival before we get settled -- I hate putting my boots back on once they have come off, and Sen is still doing whatever he's up to at the bar."


Rictavio says, "You're on! I won't peak until we get there. Who knows but I don't have unseen helpers that can meddle for me, eh?"

quote:
Ritin nods and, if Rictavio is amenable, we wait. When Ireena and Ismark begin to make motions to leave, Ritin and Edwin wish them a peaceful evening, but Imondo holds up a hand: "Resting apart from us is against my better judgment, but your privacy is your own. Splitting a night into two shifts is more tiring than splitting a night into six or, more prudently, 3 pairs of watchers. If the abbey is your destination, and is able to offer a greater degree of protection, then my preference is to remain together until we see you safely to your sanctuary--even if that means taking you there, now. Your life is your own, and we are strangers here, but I believe that's what he," motioning to Sen "would say. And I agree in this case."


Ismark says, "We will take our rest here, but we appreciate your concern. The outer door to the corridor with our room is lockable, as in our room. We live our life in trade-offs, and tonight we prefer privacy and comfort. Once my sister is settled-in at the abbey and I am satisfied with her safety, I will keep my word and accompany you on your way."

******

Conversation breaks off with Danika and Urwin, if you have any additional questions, I will add it in post.

Sen joins his friends and they finish a quick meal while Rictavio goes to the kitchen and returns holding a couple apples and something bundled in a greasy handkerchief.

You make your way to N5 on the map.

"I will admit, it was not strictly subterfuge, but I just wanted to have an excuse to leave the inn so we an talk. Also, I was a bit hasty to admit to the tiger. It is not widely known, I have not actually obtained permission to have the animal in town. I am not used to that being an issue, but I have come to find that the Burgomaster is a bit of an authoritarian. If he deems the thing unsettling, he will have us thrown out. Speaking with you took my mind out of these lands. In any case, I do not think you will win the bet. My traveling carnival is not what it once was. So, if you are willing, we will amend the deal. If I win, we will trade certain information and I ask only that you do not divulge the nature of my inquiries. If you win, well, I don't think you'll win. Well, let's just see..." Rictavio unfolds the paper. Stops. And says, "Son of a bitch."

Rictavio looks at Edwin, "You lose. Technically. Your guess is a month late. What a guess. I knew you'd lose because my carnival consists of the tiger and the horse that pulls the wagon and I was putting you on, a bit, I suppose," he pauses, "you must have spoken to someone. Did the toymaker tell you he got Piccolo from me? No, then you would know I no longer have it. You must have heard something then. Has someone from beyond these walls spoken of me? You only just arrived."

About this time you arrive at a large stockyard which has several locked sheds along its periphery and lies adjacent to a roomy warehouse. A wooden sign above the front gate reads “Arasek Stockyard.”

Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words “Rictavio’s Carnival of Wonders.” A heavy padlock secures the back door. Looks closely, high perception character see the wagon lurch slightly to one side.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:48, Wed 27 Apr 2022.
SIRE
player, 317 posts
Wed 27 Apr 2022
at 22:51
  • msg #534

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 533):

quote:
Urwin nods and says, "That is reasonable, but I beg you not to tarry. I can't see why anyone would have work out that way. There are two hunters which frequent this inn, who would know the most about the lands 'round about here. Szoldar Szoldarovich and Yevgeni Krushkin. They wouldn't take me up on my offer as they have no need rooms, and they themselves sell food to this inn, wolf meat, by the way. If you would like wolf steak that is a cost above normal boarding. Anyway, there is a chance they know of rumors around the area and though they would be better characterized as competition for taking coin for errands in the area, they may yet be of help to you. They offer to serve as guides for 5gp a day, but they will not be found outside the town gates after dark for any price.


Sen thanks Urwin for the information, says that he is inclined to take the job, but needs to check with the others before confirming. In any event, Sen asks the innkeepers to let Szoldar and Yevgeni know that there is a free drink for them if they are willing to tell us about navigating the wilderness and its dangers. We are interested in hiring them too, yes.

quote:
Ismark says, "We will take our rest here, but we appreciate your concern. The outer door to the corridor with our room is lockable, as in our room. We live our life in trade-offs, and tonight we prefer privacy and comfort. Once my sister is settled-in at the abbey and I am satisfied with her safety, I will keep my word and accompany you on your way."


Ritin wishes them well, and Imondo reminds them to barricade the windows, too. Imondo would be interested in standing guard with a view of both the stairs and any external windows, if that is viable. He would not announce this intent to Ismark or Ireena, as he would not want to offend them.

quote:
"I will admit, it was not strictly subterfuge, but I just wanted to have an excuse to leave the inn so we an talk. Also, I was a bit hasty to admit to the tiger. It is not widely known, I have not actually obtained permission to have the animal in town. I am not used to that being an issue, but I have come to find that the Burgomaster is a bit of an authoritarian. If he deems the thing unsettling, he will have us thrown out.


Ritin wonders aloud how a city official would remove a party of adventurers, and poses the question about whether there is real muscle in the town and who it is.

quote:
Speaking with you took my mind out of these lands. In any case, I do not think you will win the bet. My traveling carnival is not what it once was. So, if you are willing, we will amend the deal. If I win, we will trade certain information and I ask only that you do not divulge the nature of my inquiries. If you win, well, I don't think you'll win. Well, let's just see..." Rictavio unfolds the paper. Stops. And says, "Son of a bitch."

Rictavio looks at Edwin, "You lose. Technically. Your guess is a month late. What a guess. I knew you'd lose because my carnival consists of the tiger and the horse that pulls the wagon and I was putting you on, a bit, I suppose," he pauses, "you must have spoken to someone. Did the toymaker tell you he got Piccolo from me? No, then you would know I no longer have it. You must have heard something then. Has someone from beyond these walls spoken of me? You only just arrived."


Imondo says: "We should discuss these matters in private. There is much to say."
Sen nods agreement and says: "Sharing information seems prudent."
Edwin says: "Besides, we've just inadvertently gotten you to share some information that we didn't have--so we're in your debt, even though you were toying with us."
Ritin says: "As long as there's actually a tiger."

quote:
About this time you arrive at a large stockyard which has several locked sheds along its periphery and lies adjacent to a roomy warehouse. A wooden sign above the front gate reads “Arasek Stockyard.”

Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words “Rictavio’s Carnival of Wonders.” A heavy padlock secures the back door. Looks closely, high perception character see the wagon lurch slightly to one side.


Imondo and Sen point out the wagon lurch to warn Ricktavio in the event that the lurch is a bad sign, though it is probably the tiger.

When we are in a space that Ricktavio confirms is safe, Ritin begins to tell the tale of how we came to be here. Sen prevents the specific details of the fortune from coming forward, but Edwin offers that the fortune included discussion of a monkey--and it only made sense to bet the silver, given the mention of the tiger. If holding back the information is a problem, Ritin will take the lead.

----------

Going to make a list of questions that I need to track:

- What happened a month ago?
- Is Piccolo the monkey?
- Why was the toy maker interested in Piccolo?
- Which toy maker, and where?
- Was the fortune "current" (i.e. the toy maker will help) or stale (i.e. Ricktavio is the man with the monkey, though he has the monkey no more)
- Why was Ricktavio willing to part with Piccolo?
The Mists
GM, 318 posts
Thu 28 Apr 2022
at 02:23
  • msg #535

Re: Into the mists

Rictavio takes you near the wagon, assuring you it is safe and that it is safe to talk. You notice a couple town guards outside of earshot in the stockyard, clearly keeping an eye on the wagon. High insight characters surmise that they are on Rictovio's payroll.

Going to make a list of questions that I need to track:

- What happened a month ago?
"I gave my monkey to the Toy Maker, Blinsky."

- Is Piccolo the monkey?
"Yes"

- Why was the toy maker interested in Piccolo?
"Who wouldn't be?"

- Which toy maker, and where?
"Blinsky, in this town."

- Was the fortune "current" (i.e. the toy maker will help) or stale (i.e. Ricktavio is the man with the monkey, though he has the monkey no more)
Technically, this is like your second day in Barovia. This is something you will have to figure out.

- Why was Ricktavio willing to part with Piccolo?
"Because Danika wouldn't let me keep it in my room at the inn."

"Talk of a monkey in the fortune. I do not know how dark forces work, or if it is simply that the Vistani which knew one of us had a monkey." He chuckles, "How silly. Anyway, I understand wanting to be dodgy about it, but what was the nature of the fortune involving Piccolo, was it good or bad?."

"There is a tiger, you can peek at it from a hole on top of the wagon, if you would like, you can toss it dinner." He offers the greasy handkerchief with a wolf steak in it.
SIRE
player, 318 posts
Thu 28 Apr 2022
at 21:32
  • msg #536

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 535):

After a moment of awkwardness where Ritin tries to tell the tale and Sen is shutting him down, Imondo raises his hand and says: "The vistani woman actually said that a man with a monkey would be of some aid to us. We had not divulged any information about our purpose for coming here at the time."

Edwin says: "I'm not sure that we know what our purpose is here, even now, given what we've seen and learned so far. I...thought I wanted to be a hero...but they leave a lot out of the stories."

As Edwin speaks, Ritin seems to collapse into himself somewhat. He thinks of the voice he heard when they sacrificed the heart on the altar, and his brave facade slips for a moment.

In the awkward silence that follows, Sen speaks up: "I still know why I am here. To bring an end to Strahd or die trying."
The Mists
GM, 319 posts
Thu 28 Apr 2022
at 23:37
  • msg #537

Re: Into the mists

Rictavio looks hard at Sen and intones, “Evil cannot go unchallenged.”

When he says this, both Edwin and Sen know who he is.

He continues "If that is your purpose, we are aligned. Blinsky is a fool. A kindhearted fool, but a fool. You have confided something to me, so I will continue the gamble and confide in you. My name is not Rictavio, and I am not a bard, or even much of an entertainer. I am a vampire hunter named Rudolph van Richten and monkey or not, I'm your man."

When he introduces himself, everyone knows who he is. He is basically Van Helsing. Being a legendary figure, you have heard somewhat conflicting accounts of his exploits. But he is a physician and a divine spellcaster. He began monster hunting at a young age is particularly knowledgeable about vampires. It's up to you what stories you have heard of him, but any book about vampires he wrote it, or is referenced as source material. Any story about vampire hunting can be traced back to his exploits.

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Peak behind the curtain
There are 21 possible cards you could have drawn as an ally card. One is 'no ally' and one is a CR 12 spellcaster. I guess a couple of them have A/B options, so, maybe a couple more than 20 options. Though Van Richten is only CR 5, he is typically rated by random internet idiots as Tier A or even Tier S. I don't really see it for S considering a CR 6 and two CR 8 options exist, but whatever. Many are CR 0 to 3.

Aside from their own abilities in their stat block, this NPC, whoever it ends up being, gains the following additional action:

Inspire. While within sight of Strahd, this character grants inspiration to one player character he or she can see.

If Rudolph van Richten sounds familiar, WOTC came out with Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft.

SIRE
player, 319 posts
Fri 29 Apr 2022
at 19:58
  • msg #538

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 537):

Ritin and Edwin are star struck.
Sen reaches into his belt, takes a pinch of ash, and wipes a gray smudge under each eye -- It is obviously war paint.
Imondo shows no outward emotion.

Edwin and Ritin quickly recount the whole fortune to van Richten while Sen and Imondo both listen to ensure accuracy. The party also debriefs van Richten on the events of their time in Barovia, to date, including the following:

- The names of the vistani who brought us here
- The experience with Death House and what we discovered there, with specific mention of:
    - The kids and the cult
    - The deed to the windmill (maybe the windmill doesn't belong to Strahd, in a legal sense)
    - The sacrifice and what Ritin heard
- The reason for Ireena's flight, as well as their plans
    - The attacks on their home that came to an end recently
- What we have heard, thus far, about Crazy Mary
    - We show the doll
    - Imondo tells, for the first time, that he saw the vision of himself hanging with the doll on his belt
- That we have a map of Ravenloft
- That we aren't very seasoned
- That Edwin died and appears to have developed a strange power. Details about the Amber Temple included.

From there, we want to know about:
- Vampires. All about vampires.
- Whether Strahd know all that happens, or some of what happens
- Whether others in Barovia know who he is
- Whether he believes Strahd knows who he is and that he is there
The Mists
GM, 321 posts
Fri 29 Apr 2022
at 20:28
  • msg #539

Re: Into the mists

quote:
Edwin and Ritin quickly recount the whole fortune to van Richten while Sen and Imondo both listen to ensure accuracy. The party also debriefs van Richten on the events of their time in Barovia, to date, including the following:

- The names of the vistani who brought us here


Van Richten no longer hides his disgust and spits when you mention the vistani. "I don't not know them in particular. They call themselves 'travelers' and 'peddlers' but they are flesh traders. New meat to sate their dark lord's unsateable lust for blood." (editorializing->) The vehemenece is likely to take Imondo and Ritin off guard a bit (if I have the two dialed in... I seem to confuse Sen and Ritin). Van Richten explains, "Some vistani, other vistani, distant lands, other planes, they took my son and sold them to their master, a vampire. Before I could save him... After ending the vampire lord, I ended my son's suffering, by his request. He had been turned." Beat of silence, "It sounds like the woman, she insisted on a fortune for you. I am reluctant to say the furtune is good. Probably both good and evil. She sent you to me, which appears to be a blessing, but may be a curse. Who better to aid you than a vampire hunter, eh? Except that I myself am cursed to out live my allies who die under the claws of monsters. A boon and a curse, survival, but at the highest cost. Another gift from the vistani.

"For this reason I must not travel with you, and if we go to meet Strahd in battle, know that I may succeed, but at your peril. If you cannot accept this risk, then you may face him without, when the time comes, and I will wait until he is vulnerable, he may hibernate before I become to old and weak to lift a stake, and I will assail him by myself."

"I will think on the readings from your fortune and try to puzzle them out. If there are relics that can aid you, they may be the key to slaying our devil.

quote:
- The experience with Death House and what we discovered there, with specific mention of:
    - The kids and the cult
    - The deed to the windmill (maybe the windmill doesn't belong to Strahd, in a legal sense)
    - The sacrifice and what Ritin heard


"I do not know anything of these matters, I did not linger in the village of Barovia under Strahd's eye. From what you have said about the cult, it is likely that their antics warranted the personal attention of Strahd. I do not believe Strahd sees all, but for a place given over to worship of him, it doesn't surprise me that he has a way of seeing the alter room. Yes, I believe it was Strahd. I also know that he has spies everywhere, which means he can get information on just about anything, but that also means you needs spies to provide the information. Strahd engages in subterfuge, but his hubris is such that he would not likely engage in such a long con to convince everyone that he is not omniscient if he indeed were. Besides, if he knew everything, I do not believe I would be alive, unless he is toying with me. I believe caution, as well as normal magical protections can keep secrets from him.

"I don't know about the Windmill. Legal sense? A king owns everything in his domain, even when his subjects have deeds. Anything can be stripped. Barovia however is both Strahd's domain, where he is darklord over all, as well as his prison. He seems to regard all the realm as his stomping ground, and allows the inhabitants to rove freely among the horrors of the land. Even Castle Ravenloft. To enter is is no more an implicit challenge to him than walking the Old Svalich Road. It is all his and he is in complete control. He can kill you as easily here as in his fortress. Well, likely more easily there, as he lives among his deadliest horrors and exercises great control there, so I've heard."

quote:
- The reason for Ireena's flight, as well as their plans
    - The attacks on their home that came to an end recently

"This I also do not know, but I have a theory. Vampires, they are creatures of lust. Some have a wide pallet, some narrow. It could be that he was simply torturing the poor Burgomaster to make an example of him. Or just for fun. But my actual theory, Strahd, like many dark lords, like many vampires, was created by tragedy. In life, before he was corrupted, he had a deep love for someone. His reason for fixating on this girl may be his curse to develop a obsession with maidens, then destroy her. For nothing that Strahd touches can continue on uncorrupted. If he wants her, I am not sure there is anything anyone can do to stop him, other than destroy him. Or her, before it's too late."

quote:
- What we have heard, thus far, about Crazy Mad Mary
    - We show the doll
    - Imondo tells, for the first time, that he saw the vision of himself hanging with the doll on his belt


"There is, of course a chance she still lives. If he found any sort of pleasure in her, she may live on, perhaps in undeath.

"This realm is evil. It plays tricks. I have been to realms that try to drive you to madness at every turn. All sadisting and disturbing illusions and... not inllusions. Weird magics and... and when you think it is a trick, it is actually the most foul torment evil can concoct."

quote:
- That we have a map of Ravenloft


He gets very excited about this and insists you let him study it, at length. He tells you that he believed that joining you for an attack would have been the last charge of righteous heroes to their doom, but with this. Maybe there are secrets that can give you an edge.

quote:
- That we aren't very seasoned


"I have mentored many, run quests from a safe distance to raise up monster hunters across the realms. I can do the same for you. I appreciate your honesty, all I need are willing souls. Come to me for aid and information. I have reason to believe it is fairly secure, long as we don't rouse attention."

quote:
- That Edwin died and appears to have developed a strange power. Details about the Amber Temple included.


"He admits he doesn't know much about the Amber Temple and was considering an expedition. There is some link between Strahd and that place. A place of great knowledge, power, and evil. Some powers can be worth the price." He looks Edwin up and down, "We will have to see." He questions Edwin a bit more about what he has seen. He focuses on the worker at the Blood on the Vine inn in Barovia, "He was dull? I suspect he is one of the souless by the way he acts. In Barovia, no soul escapes. You are reborn eternally. But Strahd needs subjects, and either the dread realm, or Strahd himself has caused that people are born even if there is no soul to inhabit the body. Just shells. I suspect that you can see with a glance who does, or does not have a soul. Better for you to be able to send souls to the Dark Powers in the Amber Temple."

quote:
From there, we want to know about:
- Vampires. All about vampires.


He tells you:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sour.../monsters-v#Vampires
Note, Strahd may be different than what is written, or even what is in Curse of Strahd.

quote:
- Whether Strahd know all that happens, or some of what happens

Covered. One thing I left out. "Barovians believe ravens are good luck and you will pull down ill fortune if you kill one. I have reason to believe ravens are indeed good, or at least not spies for Strahd. I say, pay attention to them, they are smart and may communicate warnings to you, or other helpful messages."

quote:
- Whether others in Barovia know who he is

"No, nobody knows. I hope..." He tells you that he uses a hat of disguise and a ring of non-detection if you reveal my secret, I am dead. This is another reason I will not join with you unless you strike at Strahd."

quote:
- Whether he believes Strahd knows who he is and that he is there

"I do not believe so, but either may be so."
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:16, Tue 03 May 2022.
SIRE
player, 321 posts
Tue 3 May 2022
at 20:10
  • msg #540

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 539):

Edwin suggests that a pretense will be needed for the large number of visits he expects back and forth between the party and RvR. Sen suggests that there are a number of errands to run and that, since everything seems to be expensive here, that we need to start thinking about income and work while we plan.

A loose plan is proposed by Sen and Edwin: Destroying Strahd is a marathon, not a sprint, and potentially one which requires multiple "generations" of adventurers. RvR should be the line of contuity for the attempts to destroy Strahd, and we should do everything we can to make that line stronger. When we find critical information, or critical items (such as the map), we will return to RvR to "save game" in the event that we get killed. I don't think he should come with us, because the mission is more important than the party's survival.

RvR should create some pretense for us to trade with him, and we should go out and explore to both earn our keep here as well as advance the cause. We will return after each critical milestone (circumstances permitting) to check in, and if he needs to move, he needs to leave word.

We should do the wine run.

We await any commentary from RvR.
The Mists
GM, 325 posts
Wed 4 May 2022
at 00:34
  • msg #541

Re: Into the mists

RvR tells you he thinks it is a good idea to do the job for Urwin. He also warns you not to approach anythh he big the way you would in Faerun, it is not likely bandits, but could be. It might be werewolves, witches, or just a broken wagon axle as even mundane equipment in working order tend to be in short supply.

He tells you to see him before you leave and he will cast some spells on you to help ensure you don’t die. He also says that although he doesn’t think it will work, that he is willing to cast remove curse on Edwin, if Edwin so wishes. But he warns that if it does work and it might return Edwin to death, but RvR doubts that as well.

Ooc: I assume that when you go it will be after going to the Abby, but that’s up to you. We don’t have to play out you going back to the inn or any of that until next day unless you want to. If you want to fast forward let me know until when and what if anything you want to accomplish.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:16, Thu 05 May 2022.
SIRE
player, 323 posts
Thu 5 May 2022
at 15:48
  • msg #542

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 541):

quote:
not to approach anythh he big the way you would in Faerun

OOC: "not to approach anything big the way we would"? -- Is he warning us against buildings?

Ok -- Yes. We will go to the Abby. We probably also need to determine where to buy overpriced equipment here, and what's available. Imondo suggests that they visit the toy maker before they leave as well--because he does want to see a monkey.
The Mists
GM, 327 posts
Thu 5 May 2022
at 17:32
  • msg #543

Re: Into the mists

I don't even know what I was trying to type. Was saying that even a milk run can be deadly.

I think at this point it is getting late.
SIRE
player, 324 posts
Thu 5 May 2022
at 18:16
  • msg #544

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 543):

Then we make haste back to the inn to get indoors for the evening. The party wants to barricade themselves in their rooms, sealing up the windows to air-tight, if possible. Imondo wants to hide somewhere he can watch the outside of the inn between, say, midnight and 3 am. Still get a rest, but offer some coverage to Ireena that she didn't ask for.

We can save the Abby, the toy maker, and the shopping for the next day. We'll also report back that we're taking Urwin's job.
The Mists
GM, 328 posts
Fri 6 May 2022
at 06:10
  • msg #545

Re: Into the mists

Your room is adjacent to Ireena’s and her brother (Ismark?) if you open the door and sit at the table you can see out your window, down the hall (one side opens to the common room), their door, and the door that opens up to the outside stairway. You can also go outside somewhere.

Roll stealth if you want to be sneaky in you night watch.
SIRE
player, 325 posts
Fri 6 May 2022
at 16:39
  • msg #546

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 545):

I think there might be a good place to watch 2 of 3 ingresses to the room from the NW corner of the stable(?). In that bush, perhaps. Imondo would keep an eye on the approach from the south, though I know I can't see the window.

Imondo would tell Edwin and the others about the plan. In the even of an attack, Imondo will yell "Fiends! Fire! Foes!" like a crazy person to wake the town up while kiting (hopefully) any threats while the party comes out.

Imondo rolled a 12 for stealth
SIRE
player, 326 posts
Mon 9 May 2022
at 16:40
  • msg #547

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 546):

I misremembered. He will yell "Awake! Fear! Fire! Foes! Awake!"
The Mists
GM, 329 posts
Tue 10 May 2022
at 07:21
  • msg #548

Re: Into the mists

Imondo’s watch is Misty uneventful. Despite the oppressive mists in Barovia, the night manages to be fairly clear and quiet, but with some interruptions. Noises that anywhere else might seem commonplace but here feel sinister. Flapping of wings, lots of wings, and squeaks of bats swarms. The howling of a wolf in the distance. A crying baby somewhere in one of the houses, which stops suddenly. A man’s drunken laugh a couple streets over.

On the inn you see the ravens fly away, and you see yet other ravens fly into the stables.
SIRE
player, 327 posts
Tue 10 May 2022
at 15:37
  • msg #549

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 548):

Imondo checks the stables to see where the ravens went, remembering RvR's advice, and (assuming nothing eventful) goes back to sleep
The Mists
GM, 330 posts
Tue 10 May 2022
at 22:47
  • msg #550

Re: Into the mists

quote:
You hear the squawking of birds and the plaintive whinny of a horse as you peer inside this stable. The stalls are clean and well maintained. One of them contains a gray mare. A small door is set into the east wall, and a wooden ladder gives access to a loft overhead. Perched on the wooden railing that encloses the loft are dozens of ravens.


Except you are relying on moonlight and sound, and there are less plaintive whinnies at this time of night.

OOC: does it take you out of the game somehow if I put direct book text in a quote box? I am not likely going to re-write stuff, but I can keep you guessing as to what stuff is made up by me and what stuff is made up by other people, though the voice will undoubtedly be different.
SIRE
player, 328 posts
Tue 10 May 2022
at 23:53
  • msg #551

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 550):

OOC: Nah -- It's no biggie.

Imondo clears his throat and says: "I'm coming up. Do not be alarmed."

Imondo slowly approaches the ladder, giving the birds (and anyone above) plenty of time to protest as he cautiously climbs--ready to slide down like a fireman at the first sign of trouble.
The Mists
GM, 331 posts
Wed 11 May 2022
at 00:25
  • msg #552

Re: Into the mists

quote:
Dim moonlight spilling in through a pair of dirt-encrusted windows reveals piles of hay with pitchforks sticking out of them. Ravens rule this roost—you can see hundreds of them.

SIRE
player, 329 posts
Wed 11 May 2022
at 17:20
  • msg #553

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 552):

Imondo grabs a crust of bread from his pack (or grain from the stable, or whatever) and scatters crumbs before him while holding some in his hands. He wants to see how the ravens react. Imondo's demeanor is cautious, but unafraid--he is concerned that the ravens are guarding something or that there is someone they are loyal to hiding in/behind the hay.
SIRE
player, 330 posts
Wed 11 May 2022
at 20:28
  • msg #554

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 553):

13:28, Today: SIRE rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  Imondo Animal Handling (Raven) - Non Proficient.
The Mists
GM, 332 posts
Fri 13 May 2022
at 05:12
  • msg #555

Re: Into the mists

So, I suppose they would be in the rafters. Being rather quiet, Imondo’s actions don’t seem to disturb the sleeping ravens. Though a few flutter and hop away or to a railing further away from the monk. None of them seem interested in food (we have chickens now, and even if they were underfed during the day, they won’t eat after they start roosting, we have noticed).

Don’t you move among the hay or explore the hayloft?
SIRE
player, 331 posts
Fri 13 May 2022
at 06:01
  • msg #556

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 555):

I got the vibe they were watching me, not sleeping. No sense in potentially creating a massive ruckus in the night and drawing attention, so no, but Imondo mentions it to the party at breakfast the next morning and Sen, remembering RvR's comment, asks permission from the innkeeper whether he knows about the gathering and, if not, whether it would be ok to search the loft.

OOC: For some reason, I'm under the impression that ravens don't congregate in groups that large in reality.
The Mists
GM, 333 posts
Sat 14 May 2022
at 04:19
  • msg #557

Re: Into the mists

Urwin frowns and says, "Yes, I know they roost there. They are used to me going up there for hay. Even so, I leave them alone and they leave me alone. Search? Well, I would ask that you stay in the guest areas, same as I would ask that you stay out of the kitchens or the larders. If you acquire a horse to stable, I will see to it."

(Feel free to continue this conversation)

I^2 want to get going to the abbey. Outside the inn you see two children playing, you had heard that the innkeepers have two children and these are undoubtedly them. The are playing some game with sticks and coins, and perhaps other baubles. It seems to involve tossing the sticks and shiny objects then hopping on one or both feet avoiding the sticks or maybe jumping past the next one and recovering the treasures along the way.

quote:
This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves.


OOC: I have been calling it the abby, apparently it is St. Andrals Church, which matters. You can just say you proceed.

Father Lucian Petrovich oversees the church and does his best to raise spirits. Assisting him is an orphan and altar boy named Yeska. They greet you when you come to the church and Ismark explains their plight. Lucian seems a little troubled when Ismark tells him that Strahd seems to be pursuing Ireena and that they have come to the church for sanctuary.

"Yes, uh, of course."
SIRE
player, 332 posts
Mon 16 May 2022
at 23:21
  • msg #558

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 557):

If there was a lot of poop, I let the topic die. If there wasn't, I mention it.

Ritin and Imondo take a moment to learn the game and play it with the children, if they are willing to teach it.

Edwin and Imondo wander the graveyard, checking things out, while Sen and Ritin go with the siblings. Ritin inquires what sanctuary means in Strahd's realm. Sen is trying to suss out whether the Father is a coward.
The Mists
GM, 334 posts
Fri 27 May 2022
at 04:04
  • msg #559

Re: Into the mists

There was poop.

Imondo and Ritin pick up the game and quickly dominate.

Father Lucian says, "Uh, yes, indeed. What can ever be safe. Our Church is protected by our Patron Saint, St. Andral." The Father seems nervous, "Tell me, do you consider yourself to be a religous man? As most things are, sanctuary is often a matter of faith."
The Mists
GM, 335 posts
Fri 27 May 2022
at 04:17
  • msg #560

Re: Into the mists

Edwin and Imondo spot a brawny young man digging a grave.
SIRE
player, 333 posts
Fri 27 May 2022
at 23:04
  • msg #561

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 560):

OOC: Sometimes, it seems like D&D requires that characters act like weirdos. Like...it always seems like there is more of an expectation that I get into people's business than would be normal, IMO.

Edwin and Imondo wave to the man in a way that is appropriate to acknowledge the existence of another worker if he takes notice of them. If he stops his working, they approach and introduce themselves.

Sen answers in the affirmative that he is, indeed religious. Ritin makes a little joke that amounts to saying he believes strongly, but doesn't like labels.....man.

Sen asks about St. Andral and checks what he is told against what he knows, listening for omissions and/or embellishments.
SIRE
player, 334 posts
Fri 27 May 2022
at 23:07
  • msg #562

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 561):

16:05, Today: SIRE rolled 14,18 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 14,18.  Sen and Ritin, Naked Insight.

That's a modified 20 and 21, respectively.
The Mists
GM, 336 posts
Sat 28 May 2022
at 00:51
  • msg #563

Re: Into the mists

Insight: Lucian seems worried and wary of you. He doesn't seem like a coward, but he seems on edge.

Lucian assumes a cadence somewhere between lecture and sermon-

quote:
Per the traditions of the Church of the Morninglord, St. Andral was a prominent cleric who arrived in Barovia a century before the land was conquered by the Zarovich family. Leading a small army, he destroyed undead that been festering in the valley, and brought the religion of the Morninglord to the Utgardt tribes in the region.

St. Andral’s greatest and last achievement was in battle against a powerful lich (whose name is now lost to antiquity). He struck a righteous blow which shattered the lich’s jaw, wounding it grievously and forcing it to flee. After the battle, St. Andral was borne to Vallaki, where he would succumb to his wounds. His remains would be interred in the recently constructed church.


Roll a history or religion check for your knowledge of Andral and of the Morninglord.

Lucian lowers his voice and says, "I must confide in you that we are in dire, dire need. The remains of St. Andral have been stolen. I feel like a peasant soldier frozen with fear on the battlefield. Any direction I go may lead to death, whether I make it known and ask for help, or do nothing and remain exposed to danger."

The youth stops his digging and scowls at you with a look of, "what?" If/when you approach he remains quiet and surly. After you introduce yourselves his recalcitrance breaks, he says, "I am Milivoj. I work for Father Lucian. We don't want any trouble here."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:27, Mon 19 Dec 2022.
SIRE
player, 336 posts
Mon 19 Dec 2022
at 19:54
  • msg #564

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 563):

Both Sen and Ritin get a 16 on their history checks after modification.

Upon hearing that the remains are stolen, Sen loses his composure and looks a little worried. Ritin tries to play it cool with a "We'll just have to get them back, then" but trails off. Sen's face makes it clear this is no time for jokes. If the area is sufficiently private, Sen asks Lucian if he knows what happened, how they were stolen, what protections had been in place to secure them, and about any strange visitors, or even more or less frequent regular visitors, before or after their disappearance.

Outside, Edwin tries to be charming (but fails without a roll) and disarm Milivoj with a smile. Given that it's a graveyard, it falls flat. Imondo says, matter of factly: "Wanting trouble, or not, has little to do with it finding you. However, we are not trouble for you. We are simply strangers, newly trapped in this land, looking for our place in this darkness. Who has passed from this realm to where the sun still shines?"
The Mists
GM, 341 posts
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 05:46
  • msg #565

Re: Into the mists

quote:
Sen asks Lucian if he knows what happened, how they were stolen, what protections had been in place to secure them, and about any strange visitors, or even more or less frequent regular visitors, before or after their disappearance.


"I, uh, someone pried up the boards in the floor," he gestures to the floor near the altar. You notice that there are some boards that look new, "The only protections were secrecy, very few people knew where they were. People know that St. Andral protects this place, but they do not know that his very bones were kept in an crypt below the altar. I had confided in Yeska," he glances at the altar boy who visibly cowers under the priest's sorrowful gaze, "I know he has told someone, but I have not been able to get him to tell me."

quote:
Who has passed from this realm to where the sun still shines?"

The youth scowls at your comment, then sensing Imondos's genuineness, gives him a pitying look and says bitterly, "Alive or dead, nobody leaves here." The strong young man goes on with his work.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:38, Tue 20 Dec 2022.
SIRE
player, 339 posts
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 17:32
  • msg #566

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 565):

Ritin smiles at the boy and waves him over to try and convince him to reveal what he has revealed. I'm imagining something to this effect:

Ritin: "Kid, I hear you might have said something about the remains to someone when you shouldn't have. Believe me, it happens. My mouth gets me in trouble, too."
Sen: "That's true."
Ritin: "Here's the thing -- everyone is assuming the worst already. You saying what you said, and saying who you said it to, is going to make things better for you. Right now you're in trouble because of what you did and because you are keeping a secret."
Sen: "That does make things worse. It gives the appearance of guilt."
Ritin: "Sure sure -- for someone else it would look like guilt, but look at this boy. He's holding it back because he's worried about more than himself, aren't you Yeska? You're trying to keep things from getting worse, right? How will things get worse if you simply tell us who you told and why?"
SIRE
player, 340 posts
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 17:34
  • msg #567

Re: Into the mists

In reply to SIRE (msg # 566):

OOC: It was Imondo who made the comment about the sun.

Upon hearing the boy's comment, Edwin says: "I think I knew that. There are people around who look...different. Thin. Like they aren't entirely there. You talk about it like it is common knowledge, but we are new here -- those who die here do not meet their gods?"
The Mists
GM, 343 posts
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 20:53
  • msg #568

Re: Into the mists

The boys starts crying then whispers something to the priest. The priest's face darkens, but he does not look surprised. He pats Yeska's back, but does nothing else to comfort the boy.

In a low voice he says, "There is a youth that helps with the grounds. Milivoj. That is who Yeska told. I half expected him. He is temperamental and bitter. It is possible he let the secret slip, or worse."

quote:
Upon hearing the boy's comment, Edwin says: "I think I knew that. There are people around who look...different. Thin. Like they aren't entirely there. You talk about it like it is common knowledge, but we are new here -- those who die here do not meet their gods?"


Milivoj nods, "You are talking about people with no souls. Only so many to go around. Least, that's what a witch told me. Nobody escapes the mist, and there are more bodies than souls, so not every child gets one, according to the witch." Now that Milivoj is talking and shoveling, he seems more at ease. Or maybe it is because some people like to deliver bad and disturbing news, "The only gods anyone believes in here are the Morninglord and the Night Mother. The Morninglord has forsaken these lands. The Night Mother watches over the people and sometimes answers prayers. And there's just one devil."
SIRE
player, 342 posts
Thu 5 Jan 2023
at 22:35
  • msg #569

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 568):

Sen asks: "If we call Milivoj in, is he a flight risk? If so, I know Imondo could catch and detain him, but it would be best to get cooperation."

Ritin says: "I can talk to him if it will help, but Yeska--you should be proud of doing the hard thing. Many who become heroes are motivated by the failures they cannot put right."

At the last, an uncharacteristic pang of pained emotion flashes across Sen's face, but Ritin would be making too much eye contact with Yeska to notice.

------

Edwin is fascinated: "Is this just common knowledge, or is it of a secret kind only held by such a witch? I fear to meet such a woman, but suspect that this information is critical to our survival--if not our departure."

Imondo keeps his cool: "Do others speak to this witch, or would you prefer that we not mention your conversation with her if it comes up in conversation?"
The Mists
GM, 345 posts
Thu 12 Jan 2023
at 04:48
  • msg #570

Re: Into the mists

(Holy Rollers)

The priest says, "He is a burly young man, I do not doubt your friend, but I fear someone would get hurt. But I see no choice but to confront him, and if we confront, I don't think it would be good if he ran away."

(Tome and fist)

"People know, but they'd rather not talk about it. Or don't believe it. I think all midwife's know. They test babies with a pin prick. If they don't cry, they have no soul. So they say. But maybe it's just lies to keep us in despair," the young man is really into his work now, "I assume she is a witch. Old woman lives somewhere out in the wilds, I see her roaming the streets sometimes muttering strange things. Being sinister. She said something about my soul and rambled about it. I told her to get out of my face!"

He is obviously uncomfortable with the fear her felt talking to her, and is likely done with the subject.
SIRE
player, 343 posts
Fri 20 Jan 2023
at 18:58
  • msg #571

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 570):

OOC: I had to get to a computer to see what spells I had prepped. Nothing useful.

Ritin shrugs: "I'm very charming, and Imondo is very fast."

Ritin and Sen make to exit the building and, if the others try to follow, Ritin says: "I would run if a mob came outside, personally" and then waits to see whether the others concur with his implication.

Outside, Edwin opens and closes his mouth a few times, trying to figure out what to ask next. Imondo breaks the silence: "Roaming the streets here, or around Barovia? I wish to speak with her."

----

Under the assumption that the party re-convenes outside, Ritin would try to play it cool: "Who's your friend?" "Whatcha doin'?" "Need a hand?" type stuff. Edwin would start explaining the souls bit and then Imondo would casually mention that this information came from someone the boy thinks is a witch with a suggestive look to Sen trying to communicate that there's more to that story. If Ritin can pick up what Imondo is putting down, then he would try to take up a line of questioning around the witch by way of mentioning that he had his fortune read by the Vistani and wondering what the witch charges for her services and where he could find her--essentially trying to make the boy feel better about making bad decisions by acting cavalier about making the same choice.
The Mists
GM, 346 posts
Mon 23 Jan 2023
at 22:59
  • msg #572

Re: Into the mists

Milivoj to Ritin by shrugging and handing him the shovel. Whoever has a passive sense motive of 14 of higher senses that the youth look skiddish with some many adventurers rolling up, despite Ritin's efforts. He backs up a couple steps to give you room to work and continues talking. Seemingly please with himself for pawning his work off to someone who must look like a minor noble.

"Uh, I don't know. She is just around. Haven't see her lately. The Burgomaster has been jailing or exiling troublemakers and downers. People who speak out against his parades and festivals."

You get the sense that he didn't compromise himself to her, just that she is creepy.

As Edwin mulls everything over, he remembers that he was sent back to collect souls, and now sees a difference between people who are said to be soulless and everyone else.
SIRE
player, 344 posts
Mon 23 Jan 2023
at 23:29
  • msg #573

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 572):

As soon as Milivoj starts looking self-satisfied for handing off the work, Ritin looks for the opportunity to slip into conversation that he knows about the relic. Something like:

Milivoj: "So then I told that dirty so and so that he had better watch his mouth or I would take him outside."

Ritin, super casually: "Was that before or after you found out where the relic was kept?"
The Mists
GM, 347 posts
Tue 24 Jan 2023
at 02:50
  • msg #574

Re: Into the mists

"Relic?" he asks, scowling with confusion. Then a brief look of shock, and Imondo sees his eyes quickly dart to the basement of the church. "I don't know what you're talking about."
SIRE
player, 345 posts
Tue 24 Jan 2023
at 22:53
  • msg #575

Re: Into the mists

In reply to The Mists (msg # 574):

Ritin: "I'm sorry. I think I got your name mixed up with someone else. All of your names in this country are frustratingly similar to my ear." (Deception: 17)

Ritin keeps making small talk and digging for a while, then eventually hands the shovel back with a "Phew! No wonder you are so big. Tough job, and lonely I imagine. We'll be staying around for a minute, and probably coming back through every now and again, in case you want to talk."

Everyone says their goodbyes, except Imondo who gives a bow to about 1 o'clock. Imondo, to Ritin, says: "I would see the interior of the church before we go, as we have no made it inside yet."

Assuming that goes well, upon entering the church, Imondo tells Sen and Ritin: "Whatever he knows about whatever you are talking about, something of the answer lies in the basement."
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