The Scions of Strahd (Act Three)

## Session Twenty-Five: Yester Hill

In the midst of their emotional turmoil, the adventurers find themselves grappling with their conflicting desires and uncertain paths:

Ray seethes with frustration, still angry at Ember for slaying the dragon that held vital information. He yearns to depart from this place, seeking an escape from the current predicament. Ember, on the other hand, wears an expression of mild indifference, having anticipated most of the revealed information.

Fey stands at a crossroads, torn between Vladimir's call for revenge on Strahd and her desire to spare Ireena further suffering. She seeks an alternative, a chance for a happier ending for Ireena.

Nix grapples with conflicting emotions, her recent conversation with Godfrey Gwilym stirring uncertainty within her. Clutching the mysterious talisman, she feels a sense of urgency to understand its purpose and discern whom she can trust. Though unsure of friend or foe, she realizes the importance of this talisman bestowed upon her.

Amidst the turmoil, Godfrey takes hesitant steps toward Fey and Vladimir, catching the attention of Ember. He addresses Vladimir, suggesting hospitality toward the guests, to which Vladimir nods and encourages Fey to follow her own desires. Settling back into his chair, Vladimir seemingly overlooks Godfrey's declaration of love. Godfrey introduces himself to Fey and offers to escort her away from Vladimir's presence, and she accepts, leaving with Godfrey.

Ember, unseen by others, observes the scene and decides against following Fey and Godfrey. Curiosity pulls her towards a nearby curtain, and she slips into the room beyond. Inside, she discovers a chamber adorned with dark paneling and murals depicting religious rites. Three slender stained glass windows illuminate the space. Intrigued, Ember approaches the murals and notices symbols resembling those of the Morning Lord. Yet, upon closer inspection, she recognizes different figures—a rearing red dragon, a dark star with tentacles, and a fanged figure resembling a vampire. Realizing this depiction diverges from Strahd's human form, Ember surmises that this figure, shrouded in bloody tendrils, represents something akin to the Corpse Star for Fey. So there's a patron for Fey and a patron for Strahd. What's the red dragon?

Meanwhile, Nix ascends a tall tower, having obtained the talisman. Eager to rejoin the group, she descends to the main levels of the castle, attempting to conceal the talisman, albeit with little success. Determined to find her companions, Nix spots Godfrey leading Fey towards a room.

Ray finds himself engaged in a conversation with Saveed. After granting Saveed permission to depart, Ray offers to accompany him for protection. Utilizing his insight, Ray discerns that Saveed seeks safety and wishes to return east to his camp, shunning Yester Hill due to its cursed nature and the loyalty of the druids to Strahd. Ray decides to inspect the room, concerned about the spiders. To his dismay, he discovers the room reduced to ashes and the charred remains of three individuals—a former party, perhaps. Among the remnants, he stumbles upon an ever-burning torch, which he reluctantly leaves behind. He also finds a silver dagger and a staff or wand of sorts. Determined to bring Saveed to the group, Ray leads him in search of the others.

Nix notices Godfrey's presence, leading Fey into a room. She calls out to him, and Godfrey inquires if she has found what she sought. Nix reveals encountering someone she believes to be Zilveren, though puzzled since he is deceased. She recounts encountering his spirit, his quest for his daughter, and his eventual departure. Fey questions the fate of Zilveren's soul, and Godfrey admits uncertainty, speculating that Zilveren must remain trapped within the mists until released.

Guiding Fey and Nix, Godfrey leads them to a chamber housing deceased knights. He assures the group of the knights' gratitude, acknowledging that their spirits have eroded over time. Though initially driven by love for the land and its people, the relentless passage of time has left them as mere specters. Godfrey stresses the urgency of restoring Argynvost, highlighting the need to retrieve his bones and ignite the beacon. While he lacks knowledge of the bones' whereabouts, he reveals that Strahd corrupted his sister, Aleksandra Gwilym, whose fate remains unknown after all these years.

Fey poses a question, wondering what fate awaits them and the other souls if they retrieve the bones and light the beacon. Will their souls find rest, or will they be reincarnated into new bodies like other souls? Godfrey admits he doesn't have the answer but asserts that Vladimir's proposal to become the wardens of the devil's prison cannot be the final outcome. Fey acknowledges that she doesn't understand Vladimir's thoughts completely but believes his love for Godfrey remains unchanged. She hopes that restoring the bones will bring him back to Godfrey.

Ember finds herself drawn back to the windows, where another flash of light reveals the images of the Morning Lord once more. Curiosity leads her to another door. In the room, she discovers a painting depicting the manor in its glory days, with the chapel's top shining brightly. Ember examines the bookshelves and spots a single surviving page from a journal. As she reads it, she hears chants and a deep voice recounting the final words of a fallen knight, vowing to defend his home and bring honor and valor to his name. Ember recognizes the voice as that of the silver dragon, Argynvost.

Fey enters another room, with Godfrey requesting to join her. Inside, beams of light filter through the cracked windows, illuminating the bedchamber adorned with wooden carvings of dragons on the bedposts. Godfrey reveals that this was their private quarters, urging Fey not to disturb anything. Fey agrees, and Godfrey reflects on Vladimir's past as a hunter, expressing the irony of many hunters meeting their demise at the hands of the very beasts they pursued. He shares his oath of vengeance and a longing for peace for his fallen comrades. Godfrey voices his concern that Fey may be treading a dark path, questioning if her obsession with ending Strahd's reign differs from their own oath. Fey states that her ultimate goal is to bring peace to the land and its people, no longer living under the thumb of an immortal tyrant. She admits she won't rest until that happens, and Godfrey confesses his desire to trust her, yet the familiarity his men claim to have with her voice confuses him, even though they have never met.

Nix reveals the talisman to Fey and Ray, sensing its immense power. Fey identifies the runes carved into the talisman as symbols of the Morning Lord, with a central Ruby, shields representing the von Zarovich crest, and symbols she saw at the Abbey in Krezk. Recognizing its potency, Fey advises that the talisman requires attunement to fully understand its purpose. Nix decides to attempt attunement but realizes it's not possible with her current strategy. Nix then offers Ray the opportunity to attune to the magic wand, and though hesitant, he agrees. However, he is unable to establish a connection.

Ember explores the lower levels of the manor and discovers an empty room. Inside, she finds two beds with tattered canopies and a worn-out rug between them. A hissing sound emanates from the fireplace, and Ember witnesses an ash and smoke dragon emerging from the hearth. It flies past her, and she follows its path, excitedly calling out to Ray about her discovery. Ember retraces her steps to the spiders' lair to retrieve the torch of eternal flame before returning to her companions.

Ember shares the information about the dragon skull in Strahd's Hall of Bones with the group. She also attempts to show Fey the symbols she saw on the stained glass windows, but to her dismay, they have vanished. Ray, attempting to eavesdrop, draws Ember's attention, prompting her to throw a magical stone in his direction. The disturbance alerts Vladimir, who demands that everyone leave.

The group makes their way to Yester Hill, noting the unusually sparse wildlife on the trail. The day is growing darker, considering the time spent at Argynvostholt. They arrive at the base of a terraced hill, where a small ring of standing stone slabs awaits them. The slabs are surrounded by a thick carpet of moss. In the center, a stone slab with symbols and runes catches their attention, while a lone raven perches upon it. Nix reads the runes, revealing the inscription "Here lies Kavan the Bloodsinger. May his spirit guide us through the trials of the Ladies Three."

Nix is taken aback, and Fey asks if she knows who Kavan is. Nix explains that Kavan was the chief of her tribe nearly a millennium ago, thought to be lost. Nix engages in conversation with the raven, which requests worthy individuals to approach so it may lay eyes upon them. The raven's feathers are tipped with white tufts, reminiscent of the raven that was involved with one of the hags in the old windmill. Nix inquires about the place, and the raven ascends, revealing a new image. They see the astral form of a tall, muscular man with bloody handprints and a missing eye.

The man expresses gratitude for their service to the Rozana and asks Nix to identify herself. Nix reveals her affiliation with the clan that follows the Rozana. The man conveys that much has transpired and struggles to decide where to begin. Nix questions the man about his fate, and he recounts his inability to prevent a schism among his people when Strahd arrived. He was slain by an assassin before the druids split into factions. Nix inquires about how he came to rest in this place, and he explains that his purpose was to serve the Rozana in life and death.

Fey and Nix inform him of the reconsecration of a Fane, to which he responds that restoring the Seeker requires sacrificing a part of their flesh, such as a hand, leg, ear, nose, or eye. He states that the restoration of the Rozana will bring healing to the land. He mentions another person who can assist them—Alshudar Belstrom, a friend from decades ago--one of the Shield of Wings.

Suddenly, a horde of six berserkers and a powerful druid charge at them. The fight is fierce, and the group is struggling to hold their ground. The berserkers' blows rain down upon them, and the druid's spells wreak havoc.

As Rey climbs the hill, their worst fears materialize before their eyes. Strahd himself, the dreaded lord of the land, appears in all his dark glory. The vampire lord weaves his charm over Ray, manipulating his mind and convincing him of an old friendship. Ray's bride, in the clutches of Strahd, had divulged a secret plan: Ray must abandon their companions and hope for the best. Strahd relishes the idea of Ray sitting back and witnessing the doom that awaits the rest of the group. He even offers Ray wine, mentioning it to be the last bottle left in the entire land. A twisted pact is formed as they agree to share the bottle.

Amidst this treacherous situation, Nix fights valiantly, taking down four berserkers with deadly precision. Ember, filled with determination, unleashes her power upon the druid, swiftly ending their threat. Fey manages to slay one of the berserkers, but the odds are still against them.

One of the druids, with a sinister smile, taunts the group, declaring that it is already too late to prevent the ritual they had planned for the night. The situation grows dire.

Strahd, reveling in the chaos, assures Ray that his charm won't last forever, insinuating that their friendship can become more permanent. Ray despises the idea, but the vampire lord has a new task for them. Strahd commands Ray to seize the book from Fey by any means necessary and return it to a specific location of his choosing. With a final ominous warning, Strahd vanishes into the shadows, leaving Ray to descend back to the rest of the group.

Suddenly, one of the berserkers sounds a horn, likely a signal to call for reinforcements. Ember, fueled by determination, strikes down the berserker before they can fulfill their intent.

Finally, the battle ends, but the group is left shaken and unsure of what the future holds. They stand together, catching their breath, knowing that their path is fraught with danger and treachery.

## Session Twenty-Six: The Ritual at the Peak

The air is heavy with the stench of berserkers and druids. The hill is infested with undeath, and danger lurks at every turn.

The group manages to hide successfully, their hearts pounding as they witness Nix's bear being slain by the merciless druids. Barbarians descend upon the fallen beast, their bloodlust evident. With bated breath, the group watches as the barbarians drag the lifeless body up the hill, passing by a point where they can observe the druids and berserkers assuming their familiar formation.

Jasper, drawn by curiosity, ventures to the far western end of the hill. Through the mist shrouding the area, he glimpses a magnificent sight—a white fortress perched atop a hill overlooking a grand city. Though the city appears distant, its details obscured by the fog, Jasper's ears catch the distant tolling of a church bell. He turns to Ember and seeks her counsel. With caution, she advises him not to touch the mist but encourages him to approach as closely as he can. Emboldened, Jasper takes tentative steps towards the mist-covered wall, his eyes filled with wonder.

Meanwhile, Ray stealthily maneuvers to the other side of the hill, executing his plan with precision. At the hill's summit stands a twisted tree, guarded by druids and berserkers. Ray carefully assesses their positions, studying their movements, and plotting his course of action--charmed by Strahd, to steal Fey's book.

As Jasper nears the mist, he becomes enveloped in a chorus of voices—Tatyana, Sergei, Strahd, and other names unknown to him echo in his ears. Are they memories? Souls? Uncertain of their nature, he ponders whether Ember's past lives reside within. Seeking Ember's guidance once more, he seeks her counsel on what to do. Ember, sensing that the mists remain stagnant, decides to delve deeper into this mystery later. She instructs Jasper to return, his mission incomplete.

Determined to conquer the hill, the group devises a plan to ascend. Ember, Fey, and Nix navigate the forest, taking a circuitous route to reach the summit. Ray, on the other hand, opts for a direct path, relying on his stealth to outmaneuver the enemy and take Fey's tome. Recognizing Fey's teleportation abilities, Ember proposes a daring move—using Dimension Door, Fey carries Nix (transformed into vermin) in her pocket, swiftly transporting them to the top of the hill.

As Ray skillfully sneaks around, fate takes a cruel turn. A careless mistake causes him to drop a bottle, shattering the silence and alerting the berserkers and druids to his presence. In the ensuing chaos, Ray finds himself overwhelmed and falls, his fate hanging in the balance.

The remaining group, now encircled, feels the crackling energy pulsating in the air. A colossal statue made of earth and twigs looms over them, lightning dancing around it. To the east, rough steps lead to imposing boulders, while to the west, a set of steps reveals a semi-circle of stones. In the south, a massive dead tree stands as a haunting reminder of the hill's grim nature--a Gulthias Tree.

Combat erupts, the clash of weapons and spells echoing in the clearing.

Ember approaches the towering statue, grasping the torch of everlasting flame. She thrusts it into the effigy, igniting a blaze that consumes it.

Nix, still in the form of a rat, emerges from Fey's pocket, swiftly shedding her transformation to become a formidable polar bear. She conjures two brown bears to aid her cause, and with a ferocious bite, she savages the leader of the druids. The brown bears tear into two other druids near the statue, inflicting grievous wounds upon them.

Amid the chaos, the group's senses are heightened, alert to Ray's anguished screams. The guarding druids and berserkers are drawn away, their attention diverted to Ray's plight. Fey, unwavering, summons the Guardian of Faith to protect her allies, positioning it near the leader druid. Nix, seizing another opportunity, lunges at the Yester Hill Champion, the leader of the druids, leaving a trail of devastation in her wake.

Ember advances towards the remaining druids, unleashing the Arms of Hadar with deadly precision. One druid meets an untimely end, while another is left reeling from the assault.

Nix's bears continue their onslaught, slaying another druid before turning their attention to the Yester Hill Champion. The chanting druids, undeterred by the chaos, maintain their concentration, their voices resolute. A swirling mist envelops the statue, obscuring its form.

Ray seizes a fleeting opportunity to address the druids and berserkers, but his words fall on deaf ears. They scorn him, closing in to claim him as their prey. Nix, unable to maintain her concentration, loses control, causing the two bears to vanish into thin air. Undeterred, Fey casts Toll the Dead once more, targeting a chanting druid. She conjures a spiritual weapon, unleashing its might upon the wounded druid, inching closer to its demise.

Ember's Eldritch Blast finds its mark, felling another chanting druid, while her subsequent actions result in the statue catching fire—a beacon of destruction.

Caught in the moonbeams, Nix endures further punishment, her resilience tested. In a daring move, Fey positions herself atop a fallen foe, invoking fire damage upon two of the remaining druids with a powerful Wall of Fire. The Yester Hill Champion, resilient as ever, withstands the onslaught through sheer force of will. The Champion lays waste to both Nix and Ember, leaving only Fey standing, the last hope against the encroaching darkness.

Fey, fueled by determination, summons her Spiritual Weapon and launches a relentless assault upon the Yester Hill Champion. The strike finds its mark, slaying the formidable foe. With unwavering resolve, she rushes to Ember's aid, administering a healing touch that brings her back to the fight.

Ember, revitalized, unleashes a barrage of Eldritch Blasts, dispatching another druid with deadly accuracy. Seeking refuge, she takes cover behind the towering statue, continuing her relentless assault while igniting it with eldritch fire. A druid, sensing the threat, summons a malevolent spike growth that sprouts around the statue. Another druid moves closer, conjuring a flame in an attempt to scorch the fallen Nix, but the fire fails to harm her.

As tension mounts, the gem embedded in the statue's heart begins to emit a brilliant green glow, casting an eerie hue upon the darkened sky.

Undeterred by the looming danger, Fey channels her divine powers, casting Spiritual Weapon and Toll the Dead at one of the druids. The ethereal weapon narrowly misses its target, but the tolling of the bell-like spell rings true, sealing the druid's fate.

Ember, determined to halt the ritual, ascends the statue, deftly avoiding the spikes that surround it. With nimble grace, she reaches the gem's location and dispatches her trusted companion, Jasper, to retrieve it. Jasper's strength proves unparalleled as he effortlessly pulls the gem free, its power now within their grasp. In a sinister twist, two druids seize the fallen Nix, intent on entombing her within the statue. Nix's memories and instincts warn her that this fate befell her comrades as well.

Fey, desperate to intervene, sprints towards Nix, attempting to reach her for healing. Unable to close the distance, she instead casts Healing Word, revitalizing Nix's battered form. She then turns her attention to one of the druids, casting Toll the Dead, but the spell fails to take effect.

Ember, realizing the urgency, commands Jasper to stand aside and seizes the moment to claim the gem herself. Dismissing her companion, she takes hold of the gem, braving the dark presence that lurks within the statue. In an explosive display, the statue erupts into flames, forcing Ember to leap off and find refuge on the stone wall, her path illuminated by the inferno.

Nix, fueled by determination, breaks free from her restraints and summons a Healing Spirit to mend her wounds, drawing upon her own resilience.

The druids, their chants growing in intensity, utter foreboding words—"Wintersplinter comes." Their focus remains unwavering, their intent clear—to complete the ritual. Fey, undeterred, channels her arcane powers, casting vampiric touch upon one of the druids before her. The strike lands true, nearly incapacitating the foe.

Ember, now in possession of the gem, senses the dark presence pulsating within it. Brushing past the malevolence, she seizes the opportunity to strike, unleashing an Eldritch Blast that claims one druid's life while leaving another wounded. With the source of the spike growth dispelled, she catches sight of a group of barbarians and druids dragging Ray's lifeless body. The remaining druid, recognizing the threat Ember poses, summons another spike growth, seeking to halt her movements.

Undeterred, Fey continues her assault, attempting to breach the druid's defenses with vampiric touch. However, her efforts prove fruitless. She conjures her Spiritual Weapon once more, delivering a final, devastating blow that annihilates the last druid. As the spike growth dissipates, silence falls upon the battlefield, signifying the end of the brutal combat.

Through their telepathic bond, Ember urgently relays to Fey the dire situation of the druids dragging Ray's lifeless body.

## Session Twenty-Seven: The Gulthias Tree

Ray lies unconscious, being dragged away by two druids and two berserkers. Fey suggests a stealthy approach to reach Ray without being detected. She swiftly dashes towards the scene. Meanwhile, Nix takes the opportunity to investigate the druid bodies at the ritual site, focusing her attention on the Yester Hill Champion. Ember also dashes forward.

As Ember and Fey approach, the druids notice their presence and warn them that any further advance will result in Ray's death. Thinking quickly, Ember pretends to stab Fey with her dagger, feigning a deadly blow. Nix continues her search, discovering unusual markings on the bodies of the berserkers. She sets the leader's body on fire and heads towards the group.

Ember maintains eye contact with one of the berserkers as she pulls the dagger out, appearing as if she has just killed Fey. She confidently proclaims, "I am not faithless." Successfully persuading the druid, Ember claims to be sent by the shadow, gaining their trust. The druids reveal that they have been preparing for the shadow's arrival during the blood moon, sacrificing captured faithless individuals, including Ray. Ember confirms her allegiance, stating that she is another bride of Strahd, and follows the druids, making a check to assess Ray's condition, realizing he is stable but affected by radiant energy.

Nix observes Ember walking with the druids, carrying Ray's body, and notices Fey's body nearby. Rushing to check on Fey, Nix initially suspects Ember's betrayal. However, Fey signals her well-being by giving a thumbs-up gesture with one eye open, clarifying the situation for Nix.

During their walk, Ember continues engaging the druids in conversation, questioning their actions toward the faithless. The druid apologizes and insists that they must find the rest of the faithless. He threatens to kill Ray if they persist in attacking. Meanwhile, Fey communicates telepathically with Ember, devising a plan to ambush and defeat the druids, saving Ray. Fey shares the plan with Nix.

Ember strategically positions herself closer to the druid carrying Ray, keeping the druid's attention. Fey casts a guiding bolt, dealing significant damage to one of the leading berserkers. Nix summons a powerful Call Lightning, striking the front group with lightning damage.

Ember continues her deception, questioning the druid's decisions. Fey attempts a shot with her crossbow but misses. However, she conjures her spiritual weapon to aid in the upcoming battle. Nix unleashes another Call Lightning, eliminating two of the three druid berserkers. One berserker and the druid remain, dragging Ray's body.

Ember employs her Eldritch Blast, hitting the druid twice but causing only moderate damage. She taunts him, declaring, "Tell the Shadow we said hi!" In response, the druid casts Thunderwave, injuring both Ember and Ray. The remaining berserker steps forward and kills Ray.

Fey takes swift action, transforming herself into a pile of bones and throwing herself off the cliff. Nix channels her powers, calling more lightning down upon the remaining beserker. Ember delivers two more Eldritch Blasts to the druid, dealing additional damage. She also casts Ray of Frost at the beserker behind her, nearly defeating him.

The druid, realizing their betrayal, labels them all traitors and threatens to feed them to the Gulthias Tree. He casts produce flame, downing Ember. In a desperate move, the beserker grabs Fey's skull and throws it away. However, Fey commands her spiritual weapon to attack, killing the berserker. She then calls her bones back to her, reforming her body.

Nix calls lightning once more, striking down the last druid. Fey, now reformed, rushes to Ray's side. Nix climbs down the mountain while Fey pushes Ray's body towards her. Nix reaches Ember and takes the gem from her, carrying Ember's body over her shoulder. Fey successfully revives Ray using a diamond obtained from Zilveren's chest piece.

As Ray regains consciousness, he finds himself surrounded by countless shadowy figures. They speak to him, expressing their need for his help and mentioning the presence of a devil. Confused, Ray asks where he is, and the figures offer him the choice of revival. Choosing not to make a deal with the mysterious figures, Ray is forcibly revived through Fey's magic.

Tensions rise between Ember and Nix over the gem's possession, resulting in Ember attacking Nix. Ray intervenes, attempting to stop the fight. With the conflict resolved, they make their way towards the Gulthias Tree, where the atmosphere is filled with needles and vines. Ember senses the hunger emanating from the tree's consciousness, realizing its connection to a vampire and its history of bloodshed and transformation.

Ray takes aim at the towering Gulthias Tree, releasing an arrow towards its trunk with unwavering determination. The tree retaliates, utilizing its legendary action to strike back, but Ray swiftly evades the attack, narrowly avoiding harm.

The needle blights, sensing the threat, attempt to retaliate by launching a barrage of needles at each of our companions. Miraculously, all the projectiles miss their targets, sparing us from injury. However, the tree harnesses its power, unleashing a layer action that summons three more twig blights into the fray.

Ember, confident in her abilities, conjures the dark magic of Blight and directs it towards the tree. But to her dismay, the necrotic energy has no effect, for the tree is immune to such damage. A sense of frustration washes over her, realizing the futility of her attempt.

Undeterred, the Gulthias Tree directs its attention towards Ray, lunging towards him with its massive branches. However, luck is on Ray's side, and the attack misses its mark. The vine and twig blights, now eager to aid their master, advance towards us, using their swift movements to close in on our position. In the chaos, Fey becomes ensnared by the tree's insidious vines, and Ray finds himself trapped alongside her.

Nix, ever resourceful, conjures a wall of fire that engulfs the surrounding twig blights, their wooden forms succumbing to the flames. It is a sight to behold, a testament to her power and resilience. Fey, seizing the advantage bestowed upon her by the guiding bolt, strikes the tree with renewed determination, knowing that the next attack against it will find its mark.

Ray, quick-witted and persuasive, attempts to deceive the tree, claiming ownership of the fiery barrier. Meanwhile, Ember employs her magical prowess, unleashing a barrage of magic missiles towards the colossal tree. However, the twig blights seize the opportunity, pushing Ray into the wall of fire and ensnaring him within their grasp. Miraculously, Ray emerges unscathed by the flames, although still held captive. Recognizing the danger, Nix dismisses the wall of fire to ensure Ray's safety.

In the midst of the chaos, Fey finds herself ensnared by the tree's powerful grip, her movements restricted. Ray, lifted into the air by the relentless vine blights, struggles to break free from their clutches. Faced with dire circumstances, Ray and Ember make a daring decision, retreating towards a hidden passage beneath the tree's massive roots. Nix, fully aware of Fey's perilous situation, focuses her energy on clearing the path, dispatching the surrounding twigs with swift precision. However, Fey remains trapped, grappling with both the vines and the encroaching ring of fire that surrounds her.

As Ray and Ember descend into the depths beneath the tree, they discover a vast chamber adorned with an ancient altar. There, amidst the eerie stillness, lies the object of their quest—the altar of the Seeker. With a solemn resolve, Ember expends her final reservoir of magical energy, teleporting Ray directly to the altar. The shrine stands, a testament to the Seeker's legacy, engraved with intricate depictions of a slender fair-haired maiden and the enigmatic Seeker. A tattered tapestry, half-rotted with time, reveals a vision of the Seeker as a maiden, shrouded in mystery and symbolism.

A noxious odor permeates the air as the ground beneath the tree begins to stir, lifeless corpse flowers emerging from their slumber. Ray, resolute in his purpose, prepares to make the ultimate sacrifice, carving out his own heart to offer it upon the altar. Calling upon his innate luck, he defies fate--the Corpse Star's magic forcing him to remain alive--and succeeds in his grim task. With the last remnants of his strength, Ray imparts his final words to Ember, urging her to trust their companions and revealing the location of the hidden tome (the one Strahd charmed him to steal and hide). Glimmers of ethereal images dance on the periphery of Ember's vision, revealing three maidens, accompanied by a fourth figure drenched in blood and clutching an eye--Kavan, the old chief of the mountain folk. As quickly as the vision appears, it vanishes, leaving Ember in awe of its cryptic significance. In a haunting image, Strahd emerges, transforming into the embodiment of the land itself, severing his own hand, and releasing a torrent of blood that engulfs the corpse flowers, drowning them in a tide of crimson.

The Gulthias Tree, a bastion of malevolence, begins to disintegrate, its twisted form melting away. The twig blights and needle blights, once loyal servants, dissipate like shadows, consumed by the growing light. The roots of the tree crumble to ash, and from the ashes, a sapling with delicate white bark emerges, a symbol of new life and hope.

Witnessing the aftermath, Nix gazes upon Ember's somber presence beside Ray's lifeless body. The weight of the sacrifice dawns upon her, and she slowly approaches Ember, extending her arms in a gesture of solace. With a heartfelt apology, Nix acknowledges the magnitude of Ray's sacrifice, understanding the depth of his devotion to their cause. Memories flood Nix's mind, reminiscent of their first encounter with the Huntress, and she contemplates the toll exacted to restore this land to its former glory. The Huntress and the Seeker have been consecrated--only the Weaver is left.

Ember, still reeling from the shock of the recent events, reaches out telepathically to Fey, desperately seeking her whereabouts and relaying crucial information. Fey, her attention drawn to the remnants of the fallen tree, catches sight of a wooden stake embedded within its decaying remains—a weapon once used to vanquish vampires. Curiosity piqued, she notices a skull entwined within the roots and a shield adorned with the image of a bird.

Determined to uncover their secrets, Fey attempts to communicate with the lifeless skeleton using her spell, Speak with Dead, but receives no response. Undeterred, she carefully retrieves the shield and stake, and to her astonishment, the shield stirs to life, speaking to her. It introduces itself as Alshudar, former leader of the Shield of Wings, and reveals that it was one of the warriors who ventured here four decades ago. Alshudar laments that Fey's arrival came too late for his survival, but nonetheless, he offers his companionship and grants her the privilege of wielding him.

In the wake of Ray's sacrifice, Nix finds herself at a loss as to how to honor his memory with a proper burial. Ember shares her uncertainty, and together, they approach Fey, seeking guidance and solace in her words.

## Session Twenty-Eight: The Mists of Memory

The haunting melody of Ray's funeral dirge fills the air as Ember stands solemnly near the consecrated Fane altar. The lifeless corpse flower and defeated zombies lie beside her, their threats silenced. Nix, attempting to offer comfort, embraces Ember, but their connection falls short. With a heavy heart, Ember instructs Nix to search for Fey and takes upon herself the task of honoring Ray's final wish by examining the tapestry in the room.

Intently studying the tapestry, Ember seeks the location of the last altar. She ponders whether this altar differs significantly from the previous one and contemplates the necessity of acquiring the accompanying dagger. The third and final Fane awaits them in the treacherous swamps of Berez, its tapestry depicting two enchanting fae maidens and a weathered crone. Determined, Ember carries Ray's body with her as she ascends from the depths of the hole.

Meanwhile, Fey finds herself back at the Gulthias Tree, engaged in conversation with the literal Shield of Wings, known as Alshudar. Gripping Alshudar, Fey implores him for aid in rescuing their friends still trapped beneath the tree. Alshudar, incredibly positive, confesses his fondness for Fey, and she reciprocates the sentiment. Setting off in search of the hiding spot where their companions vanished, Fey encounters Nix making her way back to the surface. Nix delivers the devastating news of Ray's demise, leaving Fey bewildered. Gazing upon Ember carrying Ray's lifeless form, Fey notices the hole in his chest and urgently inquires about the events that transpired. Struggling to find the words, Ember resorts to sharing the memory telepathically.

The memory unfolds before Fey's eyes, and a surge of anger engulfs her. She mourns Ray's wasted life and condemns his act of cowardice. Thumping her hand against his chest, Fey questions why he chose to end his own existence. A sinister whisper infiltrates her mind as the Corpse Star reveals its presence, recounting its offer to resurrect Ray—an offer he lacked the strength to accept.

Ember, connected through their telepathic bond, overhears Alshudar's voice and expresses her disdain for conversing with a talking shield. Fey assures her that stranger things have occurred, reminding Ember of the tome of Strahd they possess, granting them access to his memories. Ember recalls Ray's memory of taking the tome and concealing it in a specific location. Determined to find answers, Fey casts Speak with Dead, questioning Ray about his motives. Ray's cryptic response, mentioning "Dark Magic bad" and a "Safe place," leaves Fey frustrated, prompting her to dismiss the spell.

Turning their attention to Ray's burial preparations, Nix seeks Ember's guidance on how to honor his remains. Ember reveals Ray's desire for his body to be taken to Van Richten and mentions his intention to entrust the gem to the Martikovs. Nix shares her belief that the gem belongs to her people but has been corrupted by Strahd.

Deliberating over the fate of the gem, the group considers seeking Madam Eva's counsel. However, Alshudar warns them against trusting her--after all, his group's prophecies were never fulfilled. Nix proposes sending a message to Rictavio to seek guidance on Ray's body and begins the preparations. Ember scans the surroundings, catching sight of Strahd, Aastride his horse, staring off into the mist. Intrigued, she informs the group about a tree resembling the one Ray mentioned in connection to the tome. Recognizing Ember's lack of full disclosure, Nix decides to accompany her, determined to uncover the truth. Ember tries to convince Nix to stay and safeguard Fey.

Nix stands alongside Fey and Alshudar, engaged in a conversation about Alshudar's encounters with the druids. Memories of the chief druid, now leading Nix's own druidic circle, resurface in Alshudar's mind. As a former druid of the moon, Alshudar shares tales of the various creatures he could transform into. Intrigued, Fey asks if they should reunite the Shield of Wings. Alshiduar believes that the group's quest to defeat Strahd is already bringing them together. Curious about the location of the third fane, Fey turns to Alshudar for information. He casually describes Berez as an uncomplicated place.

Meanwhile, Fey receives no response to her sending spell sent to Rictavio. Accepting the lack of communication, she and Nix decide to make preparations to cremate Ray's body, a solemn task that lies ahead.

Ember approaches Strahd, who sits Aastride his horse. Unfazed by her presence, he remains silent. Ember gently pats the horse's nose, seeking Strahd's attention. Finally, he acknowledges her and she asks if he found the book. Inquisitively, Strahd questions Ember about what they sacrificed to reconsecrate this second fane. She admits that it was Ray who made the sacrifice. Strahd expresses his interest in Ray, calling him an intriguing man. Ember retorts, stating that he becomes less intriguing when he steals from their group. A hint of anger flashes across Strahd's face as he suggests that not all of his actions revolve around Ember or the party. Curious, she asks if he intended to steal the book for himself.

Strahd's anger briefly surfaces before he states that she should return to the party. Ember probes further, asking where he plans to go. Strahd cryptically replies that he awaits another group not swayed by the rituals and calls of evil gods--the Fanes. Frustrated, Ember urges him to stop trying to kill the party if he wants their help. Strahd denies trying to kill them, but Ember counters, pointing out the deaths that have befallen their comrades. She highlights the lack of unity within the group and suggests that if he wants their collaboration, he should cease his hostile actions. Strahd believes Ember has much to offer, but he doubts their compatibility as long as she follows whatever influences Fey.

Ember questions her next move, wondering if she should run off into the night. Strahd offers her the option to join him, emphasizing that she doesn't truly know Fey if she aligns herself with her. Ember asserts her loyalty lies solely with Aastrid. Strahd challenges her, questioning what she gains by wandering Barovia with the party instead of working alongside the most knowledgeable person in the land—himself. He claims to have been patient, but Ember counters that she cannot trust someone who steals from her. Confused, Strahd inquires about the theft she mentions. Ember demands the return of the book as a condition for their collaboration.

Strahd sarcastically agrees, suggesting they find the thief together. Ember sees through his words and declares that she has heard enough, walking away from him. Strahd's gaze shifts from Ember, focusing on the mist. The eyes of his horse seem to pierce Ember as she retreats. Gazing into the mist, Ember catches glimpses of past visions of Castle Ravenloft, even spotting Jamie Mountainlion for a fleeting moment. However, she recognizes that it cannot truly be his spirit.

As Ember walks away, she establishes a telepathic connection with Strahd and confronts him, denouncing him as a liar.

At that moment, Strahd's attention intensifies, and he warns, "It seems I shall have far less patience with your next incarnation." In an instant, his horse charges towards Ember, casting a fiery blast in her direction. The flames engulf Ember, inflicting significant damage. Nix, observing the altercation from a distance, witnesses the unfolding combat.

Ember swiftly disengages from Strahd, creating a distance of 30 feet between them. However, Strahd, utilizing his legendary action, matches Ember's pace, refusing to let her escape. Fey and Nix rush towards Ember's previous location, arriving just in time to witness the tense standoff. Fey steps forward boldly, commanding Strahd to halt. In response, Strahd unleashes his fury, shouting, "How dare you! Zhudun!" The pretense of civility fades as Strahd turns his attention towards Fey, his true nature as the vampire lord of the land revealed. Looking beyond Fey, he accuses her, "I know what you were doing. You thought you could enter and alter the past! I will destroy your puppet!" With that, Strahd casts an intensified Fireball, targeting both Fey and Nix. The devastating explosion takes them down, leaving them gravely wounded. Strahd, now enraged, shifts his gaze to Ember, shouting, "Is this who you choose to ally yourself with?" He then moves menacingly towards Fey, poised to strike.

Seizing the opportunity, Ember retaliates, launching a silvered arrow towards Strahd. The arrow strikes true, dealing a small but piercing blow. As the arrow lodges in Strahd's neck, Ember notices a tense moment and observes a crimson energy, akin to what she saw emanating from one of the fanes. Realizing the significance, Ember attempts to persuade Strahd to spare Fey, offering her assistance. To her surprise, Fey miraculously resurfaces with a single hit point, her body reassembling itself as she speaks. However, something else, something ominous, speaks through her—the voice of the Corpse Star. Though Fey intends to plea, "Stop hurting my friend. We've already lost too much today," the words that escape her lips are manipulated by the Corpse Star's influence. Instead, she proclaims, "We've already won!" Struggling against the dark force, Fey taps into her divine power, replenishing a spell slot. She conjures her newfound shield and unleashes a radiant burst of daylight towards Strahd. Yet, he swiftly counterspells the spell, frustrating Fey's efforts. Alshudar, unable to bear witness any longer, raises his voice, shouting at Strahd while shielding himself from the radiant burst.

Undeterred, Fey attempts to retreat, but Strahd's horse, Bucephalus, charges at her, striking her with its hooves. Fey collapses, and Strahd proceeds to attack her further, targeting her weakened form and causing two failed death saves.

Meanwhile, Nix, lying on the ground, fails a death saving throw. Ember, determined to confront Strahd, moves as close as she can and utters the word "Sol," clutching the Final Sol Breve. A brilliant explosion of sunlight engulfs the area, but Strahd seems impervious to its effects due to the pulsating red energy within him. He repeats the words she told him back in the book--do more damage next time.

Tragically, Fey fails her last death save, succumbing to her injuries. She merges with the Corpse Star, hearing its unsettling proclamation that they have already won and that a part of them now resides within Strahd's past. As Fey's bones disintegrate, she vanishes from existence, leaving no trace behind. In a final act of destruction, Strahd obliterates the last sol breve.

Attempting to negotiate with Strahd, Ember speaks up, acknowledging his triumph. She asks what he wants and expresses her willingness to cooperate. Strahd initially pays her no mind, focusing on Fey's remains. Addressing Ember, he remarks, "Thank you, Ember. You've given me something to look forward to. I hope we will be friends in your next life, sincerely. But for now, go ahead. Play the hero. See what happens. I haven't tried something like this in 200 years. I'll give you a head start. Are you taking Nix with you?" Ember affirms her intention to take Nix, to which Strahd replies, "Very well. She's yours. Good luck." His anger sated, he resumes a gentlemanly facade. Being called a liar is what provoked him to violence--why?

Just then, a young man with a beard emerges from the surrounding trees. He wears ordinary clothing, neither rich nor ragged. Having witnessed the entire confrontation, Ember hides while dragging Nix into the cover of the woods. The man rushes towards them, extending his hands and whispering incantations. He casts cure wounds on Nix, providing much-needed healing. Ember seizes Fey's burnt holy symbol of Lathander and takes Alshudar, the shield. The man, attempting to foster trust, places all his weapons on the ground as a gesture of goodwill. He reveals his knowledge of the Martikovs and invokes their phrase, "birds of a feather." Despite his efforts, Ember and Nix remain highly suspicious. Ember walks away, and Nix follows suit, leaving the enigmatic stranger behind.

Fey realizes she is dead, consumed by a sense of shame for succumbing to the power of the Corpse Star. The emptiness of a purposeless existence weighs heavily on her, and she yearns to do more. Looking down, she sees that she is not alone but part of a larger collective. Voices resonate within her, urging her to continue the mission, referred to as Chapter 3. A festering seed of purpose takes hold, and suddenly she finds herself in a new space, standing as a guard before Strahd. He sits on a throne, and Fey senses her role as his protector and advisor. Sergei von Zarovich enters the room with confidence, and Rahadin emerges from behind the throne to welcome him formally. The two half-brothers embrace, with Sergei expressing his excitement to get to know Strahd better in Barovia.

On the outside, Nix catches up to Ember, who pays little attention to Alshudar, the shield. Both of them are alarmed by the man-**-Jakub Davtona's-**-familiarity with them and his knowledge of the Night Gem. They decide to burn Ray's body while Alshudar remains crazily optimistic, giving them some space. Ember casts detect magic on a nearby tree and senses a mystical energy emanating from its roots. She uncovers an item resembling a spear, made from the roots themselves. It reminds Nix of a weapon once wielded by an elder in her village. They construct a pyre for Ray, and Nix draws ancient runes around his body. Ember takes a moment to gaze into the distance, seeking detachment from the overwhelming events. She longs for an end to the loss of those she loves and recalls a dream where Jasper spoke of burning the entire place down.

Fey finds herself back in the tome, transported to a tournament in what appears to be Krezk. Rahadin announces the victor of a recently concluded round. Fey realizes she can engage with the court members in conversation or explore the grounds and investigate the overlook. She chooses to converse and approaches Aleksandra Gwilym. Fey asks if Gwilym is enjoying the festivities, to which Gwilym responds with formality, Fey then turns her attention to Sergei, mentioning her belief that Strahd was nervous to meet him. Sergei asks if the Morning Lord has found a home in these lands, and Fey confirms that the Morning Lord is an integral part of Castle Ravenloft's culture. Curious about Strahd's devotion, she inquires about the duration of his allegiance to the Morning Kord. Sergei shares his intention to participate in the upcoming ring fight and wonders if he will see Fey there. She responds positively, suggesting that he might indeed encounter her.

A break is announced by Rahadin, who informs the audience about the forthcoming round of fights and encourages everyone to enjoy the show. Strahd, tight-lipped yet smiling, joins the applause. Fey looks to Strahd, silently asking for his opinion on whether she should challenge anyone. He nods in affirmation. She and Sergei agree to a non-lethal combat challenge and inform Rahadin of their decision.

The battle commences, and Fey swings her mace at Sergei, but he blocks her attack, visibly surprised by her quick aggression. Sergei retaliates with two sword strikes, landing significant blows. Fey tries to hit him with a guiding bolt but misses as Sergei evades her spell. He casts his spiritual weapon and strikes her twice again with his sword. In response, Fey conjures her own spiritual weapon, misses with another weapon attack, and finally connects with Sergei using her spiritual weapon. Sergei continues his assault, attacking twice with his sword and once with his spiritual weapon, hitting Fey only once. Undeterred, she hurls a vampiric touch at Sergei, hitting him, and follows up with another strike from her spiritual weapon. Sergei counters with a spell, but Rahadin intervenes, halting the fight upon realizing that Sergei has overcome Fey.

Sergei stands before Strahd and proposes a duel. Awkwardly, Strahd agrees to the challenge. Fey observes the battle and senses Strahd's uncertainty about what he will do if he loses. Sergei appears to have the upper hand, and Fey notices that Strahd employs the maneuvering techniques Rahadin taught him long ago, when Ember urged him to fight harder as a child. The brothers conclude the duel and bow to each other. Strahd wins--barely. Sergei, unaffected by the fight, is not even sweating, while Strahd is drenched in perspiration. Strahd's gaze snaps toward Sergei, and when Fey approaches him and offers her handkerchief, he loses control, shouting, "I don't need pity!" The crowd falls silent, and Sergei approaches Strahd, congratulating him on his victory and acknowledging his brightness in the Morning Lord's light. The crowd erupts in cheers for Strahd as everything freezes around Fey. The Corpse Star whispers, and Fey hears Strahd say, "He was handsome, and he was youthful. I hated him for both."

Meanwhile, Jakub completes his spell and notices a man in gold and white attire, sipping wine. It is Ray, whose spirit has been preserved by the fanes due to his sacrifice. Jakub seeks Ray's assistance with Ember, and Ray agrees to become Jakub's familiar in the form of a raven.

Nix and Ember gather at Ray's pyre, preparing to honor their fallen comrade.

## Session Twenty-Nine: The Perversion of the Past

Ember's desire is to journey to Krezk, a destination she insists upon. Nix suggests giving Jakub a chance, curious about how Strahd managed to appear. Ember shares her account, claiming she spotted him and trailed him. She fibs, stating that she encountered him after parting ways with the group. Deep down, she knows Strahd possesses the coveted book. She doesn't mention it.

The duo secretly plots to rest with Jakub and make their departure while he slumbers. They approach his dwelling, confronted by a grand green door leading to his protective dome. Nix lightly taps the door with her staff, only for it to pass through effortlessly.

Undeterred, Nix bravely steps through the magical barrier. Jakub reveals that his new avian companion is named Ray. Nix attempts to communicate with the raven, while Ember realizes that she can now establish a mental connection with Nix. Nix's efforts to converse with Ray commence, and the raven takes flight, circling around Ember. Seizing the opportunity, she playfully instructs her feline companion, Jasper, to swat at Ray.

Ray, in his avian form, begins to complain about Jasper's aggressive behavior, audible to everyone present. Ember engages in banter with Ray, resuming their familiar dynamic of teasing and taunting. Nix, overwhelmed by a mix of joy and sorrow at the return of her friend in some form, finds tears welling up. Ray attempts to remind Ember of the advice he once offered her regarding trust, which she consciously chose to ignore. Seeking clarification, they inquire about Jakub's knowledge of their group.

It is revealed that Jakub is a member of the Keepers of the Feather, a clandestine organization closely tied to the Martikov family—birds of a feather, as the saying goes. The Keepers stand as the longest-running resistance against Strahd, a vital force preventing the land from succumbing entirely to darkness. They undertake missions that even the most intrepid adventurers have failed to accomplish.

Alshudar, stirred by the mention of adventurers, begins to voice his excitement, but Ember swiftly shushes him, signaling the need for caution. Jakub, puzzled by Ember's gesture, proceeds to explain how the ravens, the eyes and ears of the Keepers, have extended their reach throughout Barovia. They gather information tirelessly, aiming to comprehend the ever-shifting tides of the land. He recounts their journey, noting their visit to the tower, Vallaki, and other significant locations.

Amidst the unfolding events, we shift our focus to Fey—trapped within the confines of the Tome.

Fey experiences an ethereal elegance, feeling as though she has found her rightful place within the tome, diligently carrying out her god's work. She yearns to serve Strahd a taste of his own medicine once again.

Within the pages of the book, Fey hears Strahd's voice. He reminisces about laying eyes on the most exquisite being he has ever encountered—the one he has been waiting for since his mother's passing.

In a scene befitting Barovian nobility, Fey, adorned in noble garments, finds herself seated at a lavish dinner table with Strahd. Sergei, appearing older, accompanies them. Rahadin, ever the untrustworthy figure, maintains his characteristic composure, his gaze shifting warily around the room, particularly fixated on the guest seated opposite him. The guest is none other than Patrina Velikovna—a dusk elf. Patrina exudes a gracious smile whenever engaged in conversation, her eyes lingering on Strahd. As Strahd and Sergei direct their gaze toward a woman bearing an eerie resemblance to Ireena—Tatyana—the atmosphere becomes tense.

Strahd inquires if Sergei was the one who discovered Tatyana. She responds affirmatively, and Sergei remarks that she brings life to the castle. Strahd agrees and questions Tatyana's lack of appetite, teasingly suggesting that her family's kingdom must offer superior fare. Patrina encourages Tatyana to partake in the meal.

Sensing something amiss in Patrina's relationship with Tatyana, Fey uses her insight to perceive that Patrina, despite being Strahd's companion for the evening, can sense his attention gravitating toward Tatyana instead.

Patrina, attempting to glean more about Tatyana's origins, inquires about her kingdom. Sergei interjects, diverting the conversation, and asks Patrina to share more about herself. Patrina discloses that her brother holds the fort in their homeland. Fey leans closer, gesturing toward Tatyana, and prompts her to share stories about her family. Tatyana fondly describes her family's rich faith, their shared meals, and the deep affection she holds for her loved ones. Patrina remarks on the pleasure of mingling in diverse company.

Strahd, worried about Sergei's attention turning to Tatyana, questions Sergei about his commitment to celibacy and non-marriage as a member of the Church of the Morninglord. Sergei, visibly uncomfortable, confirms his dedication, and Tatyana praises his noble pursuit. Sergei adds that they will be guided by the Morning Lord as they forge their path. Fey interjects, inquiring if Sergei aims to ascend within the ranks of the church. Sergei pledges to serve both the church and his brother, Strahd.

Strahd offers a generous donation to construct a new church in Tatyana's homeland, tailored to her desires. Sergei volunteers to oversee the project, while Fey suggests close collaboration between Sergei and Tatyana. Strahd concurs, addressing Fey as "Lady Watcher."

Strahd declares his trust in Sergei's abilities in various endeavors, particularly when it comes to restoring the land, as Rahadin acts as his enthusiastic supporter. Sergei proposes escorting Tatyana back to Barovia for the evening, but Strahd counters by inviting her to stay as a guest in the castle. Patrina expresses her disapproval, but Strahd urges her to embrace spontaneity. Fey interjects, advocating for Tatyana to stay.

Strahd suggests that Tatyana remains in the castle while Sergei returns to Barovia to tend to her family's cows. Sergei agrees, but offers to accompany Tatyana home if she wishes to leave. Strahd, Rahadin, and Fey try to persuade her to stay, while Patrina and Sergei seem interested in convincing her to leave. Eventually, Tatyana agrees to spend the night at the castle but asks Sergei to stay and escort her home the next morning. As she gazes at Sergei, Strahd's focus intensifies, and his face turns solemn.

Strahd's voice resurfaces, remarking that it seemed as though the sun was shining on Sergei rather than himself. Fey is momentarily transported forward in time to a chapel where Strahd walks alongside Tatyana. He inquires about her satisfaction with her accommodations in the castle, and she expresses her gratitude and happiness. Strahd responds with equal joy. Fey, like an invisible observer, whispers to Strahd, "She would enjoy Sergei's company more!" His eyes widen at this remark, and he suggests that he should accompany her back to Barovia the next day. Tatyana accepts, referring to him as "an elder" escort. Fey whispers again, "Poor girl, she's so disappointed," causing Strahd to become upset once more.

In another location, Fey hears Strahd playing the harp. She approaches, attempting to play discordant notes, but Strahd skillfully corrects them. Tatyana turns away, and then Sergei enters the room. He lifts her up and embraces her, playfully spinning her around. Fey observes Strahd and realizes that he doesn't comprehend the whispers she is delivering, but he is upset because he doesn't understand why Tatyana prefers Sergei over him, perhaps due to his age. Strahd believes he is superior to Sergei and fails to grasp why the woman he believes is destined to be with him rejects him in favor of Sergei. Fey senses that Ireena is aware of Strahd's feelings but refuses to reciprocate them.

Fey finds herself in yet another setting—the dining hall, where Tatyana, Sergei, and Strahd are present. Tatyana dances with Sergei in a ballroom filled with nobles. Strahd, however, stands apart, facing a portrait of himself. He presents Sergei and Tatyana with goblets, and Fey discerns that some time has passed since their previous encounters. She witnesses Strahd pouring a sparkling pink liquid into a goblet before approaching Sergei and Tatyana. As Fey leads her dance partner in twirls, they accidentally collide with Strahd, causing the liquid to spill onto the floor. Strahd erupts in anger, shouting at Fey, "WHY! These are my honored guests, and you've RUINED it! GET OUT!" Sergei tries to guide Tatyana away so she can change. Strahd summons Rahadin and orders him to kill the noble in whose body Fey was residing. Fey experiences a twinge of guilt for causing the noble's death, but she knows that sacrifices must be made in her service to the Corpse Star.

She hears Strahd's voice lamenting the loss of the love potion and expressing his determination not to let Tatyana slip through his grasp, as it was his destiny.

The adventurers gather together, sharing their knowledge and discussing their next steps. They inquire about the Keeper's headquarters and ask Jakub about Fey's body and belongings. Nix offers some information on that. Jakub expresses his regret at not being able to fly and asks Ember about her magic and the source of her strength. She reveals that she is a warlock bound to a powerful entity known as the Great Old One, though it's not the entity's real name, just a pseudonym. They exchange information about their respective classes.

Jakub, a bard, decides to showcase a song he has been working on, which happens to be "Love Story" by T-Swift. Ember immediately leaves the tent, and Aastrid becomes suspicious, wondering if Jakub might be Jamie in disguise. Nonetheless, Jakub doesn't resemble Jamie physically.

Nix and Ember discuss their options and decide not to run away from Jakub during the night. They consider returning to the winery, but it has been destroyed. They also contemplate visiting Jeny Greenteeth or going to Krezk, where Ember's original "family" lives in a tower. Before heading to Krezk, they make a stop at the shrine where the chief resides.

At the shrine, the chief presents Nix with an impressive spear named Bloodsinger. They learn that Jakub comes from the trusted bloodline of the Martikovs, and it is believed that they, along with the mountain-dwellers, have the power to defeat the devil Strahd. Ember asks about Jakub's lineage, but he seems evasive about his connection to the Martikovs.

The chief blesses some gems in return for their service, and they learn about Alshudar. He tells them about the Sword of Holy Light, the Sunsword, which he possessed but now belongs to Fisk. Ember accuses Fisk of being a traitor, but Alshudar doubts her claim. Nix gives Ember the amulet given to her by Zilveren, and Ember can feel its holy radiant magic.

Meanwhile, Fey finds herself back in the Tome, hearing the Corpse Star commend her as his most helpful servant. Fey asks how she is doing, and he responds positively, stating that her most crucial task lies ahead. The Corpse Star remarks that the tool of Vampyr, referring to Strahd, is weak in this cycle, the weakest he has ever been. He expresses his intention to make Strahd theirs, and Fey asks if he will take his power. The Corpse Star reveals that Strahd will be within the mists, and Barovia will be renamed. Fey acknowledges that she is nearing the end of her quest, and the Corpse Star reminds her that she has been chosen out of all others and must not fail. The tool of Vampyr must become one of them, and Fey assures him that she will not fail.

Suddenly, Fey hears Strahd's voice. She finds herself in his study, and the portrait above the mantle, which used to depict the von Zarovich family, now shows Tatyana. Strahd appears tired and sleep-deprived as he practices magic. Fey, in a corporeal form, approaches the portrait and makes a sound, catching Strahd's attention. He greets her with a "hello again." Fey walks closer to him and whispers in his ear, "So tired!" Strahd acknowledges his weariness, admitting that he is growing older and slower. Fey continues to provoke him, emphasizing his age and claiming that the nobles are plotting against him. She questions why Tatyana would choose him when Sergei embodies youth and light. Strahd reveals his desire for more power, but Fey insists that he is too weak. She suggests that to become more powerful, he must die. Strahd's concentration is interrupted when someone enters the room.

Sergei and Tatyana enter, holding hands. Strahd composes himself and warmly greets them. He asks about their visit, and Sergei explains that they are engaged and plan to marry in the chapel of Castle Ravenloft, as he believes it is the Morning Lord's will. Tatyana agrees, expressing that their love is anointed by the Morning Kord himself. Fey, invisible but smiling, realizes that Strahd's facade is crumbling, and his true emotions are evident. She approaches him, places a hand on his shoulder, and whispers, "The Morning Kord shines upon them, but you... you look like a corpse."

Strahd attempts to respond but fails, feeling jealous, enraged, pitiful, and sad. He assures Sergei and Tatyana that he will not stand in the way of their happiness, even though it causes him pain. Sergei and Tatyana thank him for allowing them to find love in Barovia, and Fey whispers "praise the Morning Lord" in Strahd's ear. Strahd bites his lip so hard that it bleeds, and as Sergei and Tatyana vanish into the mist, Fey notices Strahd's internal struggle.

Then, Strahd mentions that Patrina has guided him to the study of certain magics that could potentially bring about change. Fey urges him to join her, emphasizing that the only power he might have now is in death. However, another voice, rasp and unseen, interrupts them. Dozens of voices, including those of Rahadin, Alek, Sergei, Tatyana, Harsan, and Ray, call out to Strahd, stating that he cannot find what he seeks in a book and beckoning him to come to them. As they speak, the book itself seems to close. The Corpse Star questions if he has chosen the wrong servant, but Fey reassures him that she will bring Strahd to her. The Corpse Star mentions that Strahd cannot belong to Vampyr.

Fey suddenly finds herself in a new location, a temple in the southern mountain range of Barovia. It appears an expedition has been mounted towards it, and she sees Alek Gwilym and Strahd present. The temple has amber doors, and hooded figures engaged in prayer stand nearby. Strahd, determined, uses potent magic to make his way inside. Fey struggles to move in her corporeal form, while the voices she previously heard continue to echo in her mind. A blizzard rages on the mountainside as the group ventures deeper into the temple.

Fey's gaze falls upon Alek and Strahd as they dash forward, and she instinctively follows in their wake. They enter a chamber adorned with a black marble balcony, where a colossal robed statue stands sentry. Strahd proceeds westward, bursting into the next room, while Fey observes that the statue predates him by a considerable margin.

Within the following chamber, a reading room, two monks garbed in robes turn in terror as they realize Strahd intends to slay them. Fey desperately tries to intervene but fails. Strahd, accompanied by Alek ruthlessly dispatches the two monks. Undeterred, they press onward. As they approach the adjacent hall, several monks unleash magical fire bolts, forcing Fey to deftly evade one. Strahd employs his telekinetic powers to crush a monk's head, his deadly display shocking Fey. In a whisper, she imparts to Strahd her suspicion that Alek may betray him—an insidious suggestion that resonates with Vampyr's whispering voice.

Monks strive to breach the room, seeking to reach Strahd and Alek. Fey, in a desperate attempt to hinder their advance, seizes a chair and hurls it towards the door, aiming for the handle. Unfortunately, she is struck by the firebolts launched by the monks. Strahd and Alek storm into yet another room, causing the remaining monks to flee. Fey leans in and whispers to Alek, "Stepping forward will incur the wrath of many gods. You don't want to subject your beloved master to that, do you?" Y

et, her words fail to convince Alek, who doggedly follows Strahd's lead. Together, they press forward into an unexplored area. Fey approaches one of the monks and urgently warns him that if they allow Strahd to escape, he will plunder many sacred artifacts from the temple. The monk, referring to Fey as a "foul vestige," laments that all hope is lost and flees from the temple, joined by his brethren.

Unyielding in her pursuit, Fey remains hot on Strahd's trail as he ventures further. She notices that the statue in the vicinity possesses the power to bind creatures of weaker will, impeding their progress. Sensing a concealed passage, Fey investigates and discovers a hidden alcove. Within, she finds a seamlessly triggered doorway.

In the room beyond, Strahd and Alek engage in conversation with an elderly robed man. The man, recognizing the gravity of the situation, declares, "So, after all, it appears my fears were correct. I will not hinder you, my lord." Strahd resolves to proceed alone, leaving Alec, the man, and Fey behind. Determined, Fey shadows Strahd's every step. She discreetly whispers to Alek and the man, urging them to follow Strahd's path. Alek complies, while the man remains. Curiosity piqued, Fey questions the man's purpose for staying. His response, tinged with an air of indifference, suggests that it's a peculiar query to make, questioning if she's new. Introducing himself as Exethanter, the lorekeeper, he dismisses any notions of making deals.

Fey inquires about the presence of Exethanter, who reveals himself as the lorekeeper. Intrigued, she asks why he is here, to which he replies that if she ever becomes corporeal, she should seek him out, and he will enlighten her about the amber ritual.

Fey, Strahd, and Alek find themselves in a new chamber. Strahd rushes ahead, his body drenched in blood. He bellows, "I am here! What do you require of me? Are you death? Have you come for me? If so, then take me and be done!" Echoing through the space, a legion of voices responds to his call. Vampyr addresses Strahd, proclaiming, "I have come...you have nourished me well, and now, your reward is due. Lay your hand upon my tomb, and I shall eliminate your rival, granting you eternal youth."

Though Fey senses the Corpse Star shouting at her, its voice remains muted. She discerns that the Corpse Star is physically present in this realm, yet constrained. Desperate to prevent Vampyr from claiming Strahd, the Corpse Star protests, "No, we have toiled and labored—it cannot take him!" Alek moves closer to Strahd, who approaches the amber tomb and drops his sword, but no sound accompanies the action. Suddenly, the torches flicker and change hues, plunging the room into darkness. Fey resolves to alter the ritual, seeking to bind Strahd to the Corpse Star. Regrettably, her attempt fails.

As the amber tomb radiates with an ethereal glow, a spectral shadow materializes, taking on a humanoid form with wings resembling appendages. The wings enshroud Strahd, who collapses in submission to the shadow's presence. They inquire whether Strahd desires to live. After a moment of contemplation, Strahd seizes Alek Gwilym by the throat. The choking is brief, but then he drains her of blood. His pupils dilate, reflecting his unspeakable transformation.

The Corpse Star, in a cacophony of voices, chastises Fey, exclaiming, "You are a failure!" Undeterred, Fey insists that she can still retrieve Strahd, that she can bring him to the Corpse Star. Dismissing her claims, the Corpse Star declares that it is done—Strahd belongs to Vampyr once more. Mocking her as a mere puppet of Lathander, the Corpse Star asserts that her light has been extinguished, and she has failed in her sole purpose. With nothing left for her, Fey admits her desolation.

Seizing upon her attachment to the sage she encountered earlier, the Corpse Star suggests she may spend more time with him. Fey agrees, hoping to glean some answers, but the Corpse Star cautions that it won't be as straightforward. Fey's consciousness fragments and merges with something else.

Meanwhile, on their journey to Krezk, Ember fabricates her origin yet again, claiming to be from the area. Nix, Alshudar, and Jakub cheerfully sing lively travel songs. As they traverse the woods, they come across a forcibly opened door, presumably the work of an undead creature. Ember senses its departure and cautiously pushes the door open, revealing vampire spawn within. To her surprise and dismay, she recognizes them as the parents of "Ember"--the elf whose body she inhabits.

## Session Thirty: Talking to the Boss

Ember's "mother" has been transformed into a vampire spawn, and the group is facing a dire situation. Thankfully, Jakub's magic has granted everyone 5 temporary hit points. Let the battle commence:

Nix takes a hit from the claws of one of the spawns. The other one targets Ember, slashing and biting her. It's clear that this vampire spawn is Ember's father.

Ember retaliates with two eldritch blasts at her father, but unfortunately, neither hit their mark. She also surrounds herself with a spirit shroud, imbuing her attacks with radiant damage. Meanwhile, Nix summons two bears to aid in the fight.

Ray swoops in, flying close to Ember's father to provide her with advantage. Jakub seizes the opportunity and casts hex on the vampire, hindering its dexterity. Jakub, using Ember's eldritch blast spell, launches an attack that mimics her own.

One of the vampires targets Nix, managing to land an attack. However, Nix's bears retaliate fiercely, biting and clawing at the creature, dealing a significant amount of damage despite its resistance. Ember unleashes a barrage of magic missiles against her father.

Nix transforms into a polar bear and launches a flurry of attacks. Her slashes and bites carry a magical essence that bypasses the vampires' resistances. Jakub bestows Ember with bardic inspiration. Her father disengages from the fight and flees into the night. Well, hopefully, that won't come back to haunt them.

Vampiric-mom tears into Nix. However, Nix's bears continue their assault on her, inflicting further damage. Determined to stop her father, Ember decides to pursue him into the darkness.

Nix and her bears hold their ground, while Jakub follows Ember and supports her with two more eldritch blasts. As he leaves, he winks at Nix, granting her additional bardic inspiration.

Ember's father smiles as she follows him and grabs hold of her. However, Jakub interjects with a cutting word to disrupt his actions. Weakened and injured, the vampire-mother disengages and attempts to escape as well. Nix's bears chase after the vampires and tear into them once again.

Ember hurls two more blasts at her parents. Her father is barely clinging to life. Nix rushes outside and swiftly eliminates the vampire-mother, tearing off her head. Jakub adds his own two blasts, sealing the fate of the vampire-mother. The combat comes to an end.

Ember realizes that she and Nix have been bitten on the neck, but the wounds were not inflicted violently. As she surveys the scene, she discovers a note left behind and decides to take it. Nix offers to assist in burning the bodies of Ember's parents, understanding that Ember cannot bear to witness it.

Meanwhile, we shift our focus to Fey:

Fey is in a state of devastation, feeling as if she's being scolded by a parent she desperately wanted to please. Her determination to prove her devotion and loyalty remains strong.

ey becomes aware of her physical presence in a different space, realizing that she has lost the features of her Grave domain. She looks down and finds herself clad in the vestments of the Von Zarovich family, holding a goblet of wine as a servant. Strahd's voice echoes in her mind, recounting Sergei's desire for someone like Tatyana, but claiming that he will be the one to fulfill that wish.

In this unfamiliar setting, Fey seeks information about Strahd's whereabouts. A guest informs her that Strahd is serving as the best man. However, the guest's intentions quickly turn to a proposition.

Fey spots Leo Dilisnya, who slips away towards the drawbridge, leaving her perplexed.

Accompanied by her escort, Fey is led inside and hears about the stained glass window commissioned for Sergei's wedding. Eventually, she finds herself in a hall outside the chapel, where she witnesses Sergei, Gabriel Andral at his side, and Strahd standing to his left.

Fey makes her way to a pew and assumes her role as a servant, offering wine to the attendees. She observes normal knights around her but notices that Strahd carries himself differentl—cold, distant, and detached from his surroundings. Fey witnesses Sergei's attempts to establish a brotherly connection with Strahd, filled with excitement and joy. However, Strahd's lack of response to physical contact, such as Sergei patting him on the shoulder, suggests an absence of sensation.

Another servant approaches Fey and notifies her that the lady of the house is seeking her presence. Fey returns to the hall and encounters Tatyana, adorned for the occasion but visibly anxious and perspiring. Tatyana apologizes for the delay, but Fey reassures her, stating that it's impossible for the bride to be late—everyone else is simply early.

Tatyana confides in Fey, expressing her unease and doubts about her worthiness of Sergei's love. Fey reassures her, reminding her that she is cherished and beloved by those around her. Fey questions Tatyana about her true desires, whether she truly wants to marry Sergei. Tatyana confesses her heartfelt longing for Sergei but also admits to feeling guilty, as if she has come between him and his lord, possibly the Morning Lord. Fey reassures her that her love for Sergei is what truly matters, dismissing any doubts caused by the coldness of her soon-to-be brother-in-law. Fey assures Tatyana that nothing can mar this day of joyous union.

The chapel doors swing open, and Tatyana steps forward, radiating with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. As the doors close behind her, sealing her fate within, Sergei pours his heart out, professing his eternal love for Tatyana and their destined union. Tatyana reciprocates, expressing her affection for Sergei and her gratitude for the blessings surrounding them.

Suddenly, a crossbow bolt pierces Strahd's chest, followed by another aimed at Tatyana. Sergei, driven by love and instinct, throws himself in harm's way to shield her but is struck by the deadly projectile. Fey rushes to Sergei's side, attempting to heal his wounds amidst the chaos.

Amidst the turmoil, crossbow bolts rain down upon the chapel, originating from the knights positioned at the rear of the room. Fey notices that these knights lack the Von Zarovich crest she wears, identifying them as traitors. In the midst of the mayhem, Rahadin rushes to Fey, urging her to flee as swiftly as possible. Fey's determination to aid those in need clashes with Rahadin's demand to take Tatyana to safety.

The death toll rises around them, and Fey witnesses Gabriel Andral fleeing the scene. Sergei's blood seems to evoke a primal response from Strahd, his pupils dilating with an unholy hunger. Strange voices echo, suggesting dark intentions. Strahd mercilessly attacks Sergei, while Tatyana, already outside with Rahadin in the courtyard, remains in peril. Fey unleashes a guiding bolt, targeting the knight set to assault her. The onlookers marvel at the raw power of her magic, unmistakably revealed.

The knight accuses Fey of witchcraft. With Strahd fixated on Sergei's lifeless body, blood dripping from his mouth, Fey disengages and makes her way outside. The knight relentlessly pursues her, launching another assault. Desperate to protect Tatyana, Fey pleads with the knight, explaining her sole intention to save her. The knight dismissively declares that the von Zarovich lineage ends here, as the guards within the chapel prepare to turn on Strahd. Fey flees to the courtyard, chased by the relentless knight.

In the midst of the chaos, Fey spots Tatyana in hiding, but Rahadin is nowhere to be seen. The relentless knight continues his pursuit, his malevolence unyielding. Fey engages him in a fierce battle, eventually overpowering and slaying him. With the immediate threat eliminated, Fey rushes to Tatyana's side, inquiring about her well-being. Tatyana, naturally, is far from alright. Fey seeks answers about the whereabouts of Rahadin and Sergei's betrayer, but Tatyana remains uncertain. Fey's instincts kick in, recognizing the danger they face, urging Tatyana to flee.

Fey leads Tatyana away, but their path is intercepted by an archer. To their dismay, Strahd emerges from the shadows, drenched in blood, multiple crossbow bolts lodged in his armor. Fey notices Rahadin and other nobles, including Gabriel Andral, making their way towards a carriage. Rahadin valiantly battles guards, while Strahd carves through the remaining resistance. Fey musters her strength to strike the archer, while Strahd limps forward, barely acknowledging her presence. Fixated on Tatyana, he accuses the Dilisnya family of betrayal.

Tatyana desperately questions Sergei's whereabouts, and Strahd bellows that Sergei is gone, claiming his presence for her. Fey asserts her determination to help, but Strahd coldly dismisses her. As Fey retreats, intending to bring Tatyana to safety, Strahd draws his bow, threatening Fey with an arrow. Sending a telepathic message to Tatyana, Fey relays the horrific truth—she witnessed Strahd slay Sergei. The weight of Fey's voice echoes in Tatyana's mind as Fey recoils, struck by the archer's deadly arrow.

Without a moment's hesitation, Strahd retaliates, sending two arrows towards the scout who attacked Fey. Tatyana seizes the opportunity and rushes towards the balcony behind her, striving to evade Strahd's clutches. Strahd claims yet another victim, dispatching the scout. Fey confronts Strahd, accusing him of his atrocities against Sergei and declaring that Tatyana will never be his. In response, Strahd, in a fit of rage, unleashes a fireball upon Fey, causing her body and soul to begin disintegrating.

Fey, teetering on the brink of oblivion, witnesses Tatyana fleeing from Strahd's pursuing figure. The distance between them shrinks with each step as Strahd pleads with Tatyana, professing that everything he has done has been for their sake. He implores her to come to him. However, as Strahd draws nearer, Tatyana continues to back away, losing her footing and plummeting over the castle overlook, seemingly to her demise.

In a striking turn of events, Strahd, riddled with crossbow bolts, remains unscathed, his body devoid of blood. Leo Dilisnya, accompanied by a formidable militia of over two dozen soldiers, approaches Fey's lifeless form. Strahd's chilling voice resonates through the air, proclaiming how he single-handedly slew all the guards except Leo. With Fey now eternally departed, the fate of Tatyana and the castle hang in a precarious balance.

Back in the present day, the group gathers to discuss their next steps. Jakub harbors suspicions about Ember's true nature and decides to polymorph into a raven and take a temporary leave. Alshidar and Nix engage in a conversation about Baba Lysaga, referred to as Betty by Alshudar. He naively thought she was kind and didn't realize the pig and goats in her company were once men. Alshudar recounts his previous encounter with hags and the ill-fated attempt to storm Strahd's castle with an army. Despite his reservations, he encourages Nix to rally the people of Barovia behind a common cause to bring down Strahd.

Suddenly, Escher appears unexpectedly, delivering a foreboding message. He warns Nix that their task has become more challenging, and Strahd is committed to taking it seriously. Escher ominously reveals his intention to unleash a horde of monsters upon them, relishing the prospect. The group braces themselves as combat ensues.

Nix falls victim to Escher's charm, succumbing to his orders. Ember confronts Escher, asserting that he is not welcome in her home. In response, Escher transforms into a swarm of bats. Nix effortlessly dispatches a skeleton, catching Escher's attention. He promises to return with even more formidable creatures, clearly enjoying the thrill of the encounter. With Nix's swift movements, the remaining skeletons are swiftly defeated, and the combat comes to an end.

Meanwhile, Jakub takes to the sky, flying over Krezk under the cover of night. Doubts gnaw at him about leaving his companions to join this new group. He questions their ability to defeat Strahd and seeks out one of the Martikovs for guidance. Jakub recalls that the Keepers of the Feather are closely watching the Abbot, who managed to overcome recent challenges with goodwill. Jakub also mentions the presence of an elf wearing a notable hat and a group of children, including Ilya, the burgomaster's son, being taken in by the town. The Abbot has become more active in the town, employing mongrelfolk to seek alms and work. Jakub informs the gatekeeper that Ember and Nix may be approaching and instructs him to keep warm before seeking out Davian.

The conversation shifts to the sacrificial rituals during every Blood Moon in Vallaki. The town sends someone to Strahd as an offering, and Victor Vallakovich, the deceased burgomaster's son, has gone missing after the uprising. Baba Lysaga's increasing slaughter of animals adds to the uncertain atmosphere, making it difficult to discern the true identity of the burgomaster or whether Ismark is still alive.

Alshudar is asked if he can protect the group, to which he responds that he can, but only if they wear him. They mount bears and approach Krezk, where they are instructed to cut their hands with silver before being granted entry. Exhausted and contemplative, they retire for the night, each consumed by their own thoughts and concerns.

In the morning, Ember is surprised by a knock on her door. She opens it to find an exceptionally handsome man dressed as a humble monk. It is none other than the Abbot himself. Intrigued, Ember invites Nix to join her for a game of chess with the Abbot.

Ember hears a suspicious voice cautioning her about the Abbot and summons Jasper, her trusted companion.

As she takes a step closer to the Abbot and the abbey, she hears the disturbing sounds of animal screams. Undeterred, she proceeds to meet the Abbot, who offers her breakfast. Ember, feigning having already eaten, observes the graveyard nearby. The Abbot shares his challenges in integrating his mongrelfolk into the village and mentions the progress made by Otto and Zygfrek in gathering alms. He expresses his struggle to find an appropriate dress.

Ember's attention is drawn to a chained humanoid creature with bat wings and spider mandibles—a horrifying amalgamation resembling an owlbear. Named Mishka, the creature is referred to as a child by the Abbot, who hopes for her eventual interaction with other children. While Jasper senses something amiss, Ember maintains her composure, showing no outward signs of distress.

A mongrel plays a piano, identified as Clovin. Vasilika bows silently in Ember's presence. As night falls, the Abbot dismisses everyone to rest while taking Ember to a chessboard. It becomes evident that the Abbot sees through Ember's disguise, unable to lie to her without experiencing physical discomfort.

The Abbot unveils astonishing revelations about Ember's true nature and purpose. He is a celestial being sent to Barovia to redeem Strahd—and she, too, came from the celestial planes, a revelation that leaves Ember and Jasper stunned. The Abbot senses the presence of Ember's true soul, but their communication is abruptly cut off. Ember hears Jasper's voice, indicating that they should not be listening to the Abbot. Jasper clarifies that he is not addressing Ember but rather the REAL boss.

## Session Thirty-One: The Dawn of Aastrid

We find ourselves amidst Jakub and Nix, currently in the town of Krezk. Ray is given the task of visiting the abbey to uncover Ember's activities. Meanwhile, Nix and Jakub venture into town, paying no heed to a destitute beggar seeking alms. Jakub's sole concern lies in locating Davian, showing little regard for anything else. Nix notices the curious gazes of the locals in Krezk.

Our focus shifts to Ember at the abbey. She averts her gaze from the Abbot, her attention directed towards Jasper instead. Curiosity piqued, Ember questions Jasper about his reference to "the boss." Jasper attempts to deny speaking of anyone else, but Ember provokes him by belittling his usefulness and knowledge. Jasper's response, resembling the cries of Aastrid, only amplifies the tension. Perplexed by the unfolding situation, Jasper suggests they listen to the enigmatic force keeping them in Barovia.

In an instant, Ember finds herself thrust into a vision of Elysium. The surroundings suspend in space and time, and Jamie Mountainlion appears before her. Jasper insists they must return to this place, regardless of the cost. He urges Ember to disregard the Abbot's words. Ember senses that this is the part of her that cares solely about returning to Elysium and trusts no one else. It is the aspect of herself speaking through Jasper.

Ember reaches out, attempting to touch Jamie in Elysium. Jamie responds with a greeting, and Ember questions if she is truly back. Jamie persistently refers to Aastrid as Ember. He implores Ember to trust herself, to stay focused, and to distrust the Abbot. This Jamie exerts immense pressure, urging Ember to disregard the Abbot's counsel. Although Ember doubts the authenticity of this encounter and questions whether this is truly Elysium, she senses the genuine nature of this presence. Ember informs the entity that she understands what she must do.

Returning to the presence of the Abbot, Ember dismisses Jasper's attempts to communicate. The Abbot reveals to Ember that they currently reside in a demiplane known as the Shadowfell. He explains that this plane confines the dark beings who prey upon truly wicked individuals and that celestial beings are sent to redeem and purify such lands. The Abbot shares his belief that an extraplanar creature, with knowledge of Elysium and the domains of dread, must be connected to Ember. He speculates that this entity seeks access to the domains of dread.

The Abbot discloses his ability to remove curses of an extraplanar nature, although he acknowledges his diminished powers. He offers to sever Ember's connection to the mysterious being. Curious about the repercussions, Ember questions what would happen if she were to be disconnected. The Abbot assures her of her strong will, implying that she would survive the separation. Ember, harboring concerns about being linked to an evil entity, worries about the consequences of severing the connection, particularly for Jamie. Reluctantly, she agrees to visit the Amber Temple.

Ember realizes that she cannot remain in Barovia and be aligned with evil. She contemplates her own morality and the façade of presenting as more evil than she truly is to project strength. Reflecting on witnessing the suffering and death of Fey and Ray's self-sacrifice, Ember recognizes her own shift towards chaotic evil within the past day. The Abbot reminds her, "Aastrid, it is never too late." Ember consents to having him sever the connection.

As the Abbot approaches Ember to perform the separation, she hears whispers of Jasper, Jamie, and the remnants of the souls she inhabited before. Seizing the opportunity, Ember brav

ely accepts the Abbot's holy healing touch. Celestial power engulfs her, shedding the lingering souls' vestiges. Jasper vanishes, but a warm sensation permeates Ember as the part of Aastrid once present in Jasper reunites with her. Ember transcends into a Divine Soul Sorcerer, feeling as though she has reclaimed her true identity as the inherently good person that is Aastrid. Overwhelmed, Ember faints, catching a glimpse of the Abbot calling for "Sister Dawn."

Amidst Ember's unconsciousness, a new character emerges—Jessica. With olive skin and milky blue eyes, Jessica becomes part of Ember's first dream in a long time.

Meanwhile, Nix faces interrogation by the Martokovs, questioning why she remains unperturbed by Fey's skeletal manifestation despite her affinity for the natural order.

It is revealed that the devil is susceptible to emotions, presenting an opportunity to exploit their vulnerabilities. Furthermore, it is noted that the devil is absent during the blood moons. Jakub showcases his prowess with fire manipulation while engaging in a debate about maintaining secrecy regarding the Keepers of the Feather.

Davian shares information that the last remaining wine in the land belongs to Strahd. The group discusses the connection between the gems they possess, obtained through good deeds from the fanes, and their use as weapons by the malevolent druids of Yesterhill.

Ember awakens on the second floor of the abbey, greeted by Sister Dawn. Sister Dawn, with her flowing white hair and clouded eyes, tends to Ember, displaying concern and care. Standing at around 5 1/2 feet tall, Sister Dawn reassures Ember that she lives in the Abbey of St. Markovia under the Abbot's care. Sensing no wounds, Ember feels a newfound clarity and tranquility. Ember inquires if Sister Dawn healed her, mentioning the Abbot's instruction to visit the Amber Temple. Aastrid believes that uncovering the reason for her presence in Barovia and finding a way to depart lie within the temple's depths. Sister Dawn guides her, marking the location on a map. Ember suggests that Sister Dawn should accompany them, and together, they approach the Abbot to discuss their intentions.

Meanwhile, the scene shifts to the other group, where Alshudar appears to be familiar with the Martokovs. Introductions are made, and information is exchanged. Tensions arise between Dawn and Jakub, almost escalating into a conflict. Dimitry resolves a dispute with the mongrel folk through intimidation. The focus then turns to Davian, as Aastrid presents him with the gem. The trio had obtained three gems from the fanes, which were later weaponized by the malevolent druids at Yesterhill. Davian reveals that Barovia has become a desolate ghost town, but with the three gems, they possess a layer of protection. The vineyard fell victim to destruction caused by a tree blight sent by the druids.

With Aastrid's group departing, they rest for the night. However, Sister Dawn hears shuffling noises. Esher arrives with companions, refusing to leave despite Ember's absence. As Dawn attempts to reason with him, Aastrid's inner strength swells, and she channels holy magic, commanding Escher to depart. In a startling turn of events, Escher bites Aastrid, and Dawn swiftly mitigates the damage, expressing disappointment in Escher's behavior. The two converse as acquaintances, with Escher insinuating that Dawn is driven by greed, reserving the group solely for her own consumption. Ecsher departs, leaving the group to face his undead minotaur companions in battle.

The combat ensues, with Jakub transforming Aastrid into a fearsome giant raven creature. While Aastrid possesses immense strength, her intelligence suffers, yet she manages to dispatch one of the minotaurs instantly.

## Session Thirty-Two: The Mountainfolk

It is the next day, following our encounter with Escher and the minotaur skeletons. Jakub has rested well, and Nix is filled with optimism, eager to bring good news to her tribe about consecrating two of the Fanes. Aastrid and Dawn engage in conversation, with Dawn inquiring about how Aastrid met the others.Aastrid reveals that she had encountered Nix in the heart of the forest for some time, while Jakub has been following her and her group, though she knows little about him.

As the group embarks on their journey south towards the base of the treacherous Tsolenka Pass, Nix warns everyone to exercise caution due to the pass's dangerous nature. Curious, Dawn asks Nix how she acquired knowledge of the pass. Nix explains that it is a rite of passage, a test of mettle where one must spend three days alone in the wilderness with only minimal supplies. She describes the daunting challenges posed by the mountain, its bone-chilling cold and frightful atmosphere. Nix attributes her familiarity with the animals she can summon and transform into to this experience. To illustrate her point, Nix reveals scars on her back, a giant bear claw scratch, bite marks from a wolf, and other physical marks, testaments to her survival.

As the group ascends the pass, transitioning from regular trees to pine needles, they are met with a magnificent sight—a colossal bird that blots out the sun, clutching a cow in its talons. Nix identifies it as a Roc, a giant avian creature.

Continuing their ascent, the mountain's biting cold becomes more pronounced, affecting Rayven, who experiences a level of exhaustion. Jakub dismisses Rayven from the immediate danger.

Progressing further, they come across snow-covered terrain with footprints imprinted upon it. Nix recognizes these footprints as belonging to members of her tribe. She presses on, calling out in Druidic, seeking warmth and shelter from anyone who may be nearby. They follow the footprints, leading them to an abandoned campsite. Pawprints resembling those of direwolves catch their attention. Dawn discovers a severed human hand tainted with black poison. She presents the hand to the group, explaining that it appears the poison claimed the victim, leaving only the hand behind. Jakub examines the poison and determines it to be non-toxic. Nix is unfamiliar with it but recognizes its origin from the mountain. Aastrid, on the other hand, identifies it as extraplanar poison, distinct from any she has previously encountered.

Among the footprints, Dawn notices smaller tracks, likely belonging to a child, cautiously moving away from the campsite. The group follows these fresh footprints and arrives at a causeway, accompanied by massive pawprints akin to those of a winter wolf. Furthermore, they notice the tracks of a child leading towards the ice, indicating recent activity.

The party realizes that the pawprints belong to a winter wolf, a predator similar in size to a direwolf. As they venture onto the causeway, a faint voice calls out for help from the icy expanse. It is a child, around nine or ten years old—Nix recognizes him as Caldur. Without hesitation, Nix tosses her coat aside, rushing towards the child and sliding across the ice. However, the ice cracks under her weight, and she plunges into the freezing water.

In an instant, Nix transforms into a polar bear, securing the child and lifting him from the icy depths.

Simultaneously, Jakub notices winter wolves approaching, attempting to ambush the party. He swiftly casts a vicious mockery at the nearest wolf, alerting the group to their presence.

Combat ensues:

Aastrid channels sickening radiance, targeting all the wolves.

Dawn confronts one of the wolves, launching two swift attacks that inflict minor damage. Unexpectedly, one of the wolves speaks to Dawn, demanding the child in exchange for treasure. It claims to be a spiritual guardian of the people of Ghakis. Jakub seizes the child, employing dimension door to transport himself and Caldur back to the abandoned camp.

Reverting from her wildshape, Nix adopts a defensive stance with a shield and spear, questioning the speaking wolf about its intentions with the child. The wolf explains its desire to bring the child back to its and Nix's village, seeking protection from hunters, referring to the group. However, no one discloses the child's whereabouts to the wolf.

Back in the village, Jakub tends to the child, providing healing and ensuring his safety. After bundling him up, Jakub casts invisibility on the child and swiftly returns to rejoin the group.

During the combat with the wolves, they mention a fearsome monster that instills terror in them.Aastrid recognizes their description as a demon from another plane.

Dawn decides to follow the leader of the wolf pack, leading her into an ancient forest. There, she discovers the bloated and poisoned corpse of a wolf, similar to the hand they found at the campsite. Amongst the trees, they come across a headstone inscribed in common.Aastrid and Nix pause to read the inscription, which warns of the wrath of the mountain's daughters, instructing them to follow the dragon's gaze and stay on the designated path.

As Dawn continues her pursuit, she suddenly finds herself transported off the map, failing a wisdom save.Aastrid and Nix come across a marker resembling the emblem of the Order of the Silver Dragon. They call out to Dawn, urging her to return.

Feeling embarrassed by her easy deception, Dawn senses a chilling breath on her neck, whispering, "You shouldn't be here. You don't belong." To her astonishment, what appeared to be snowfall transforms into eight snow maidens. The tension rises as combat ensues once again.

Aastrid, aware of magical traps, carefully follows the path. Dawn strikes one of the snow maidens with a green flame blade, inflicting damage. Nix and Aastrid skillfully navigate the treacherous terrain, avoiding traps as they try to catch up to Dawn. The snow maidens retaliate, launching life-draining attacks against Dawn, dealing a devastating 47 damage, including an attack that reduces her maximum hit points.

Meanwhile, Jakub successfully employs a minor illusion to deceive and defeat a sneaking wolf attempting to attack him.

Returning to the group, Dawn attempts to escape, healing herself in the process. However, she finds herself disoriented and turned around. The snow maidens set their sights on Nix and Aastrid, preparing to attack.

In the midst of the chaos, Aastrid senses the immense power emanating from the talisman she holds. As a holy symbol, the central red stone glows, resonating with her divine soul in a way she never experienced as Ember. Gazing skyward, she sees a radiant sun, its light reflecting against the ruby. It dawns upon her that this is the Holy Symbol of Ravenkind, capable of turning undead with its sun-reflecting ability.

Summoning forth sunlight from the symbol,Aastrid watches as the snow maidens wither under its holy radiance. Dawn urges the party to retreat from the fading snow maidens, and they heed her advice, walking away from the battlefield, causing the maidens to vanish.

Meanwhile, Jakub remains with the invisible child they rescued. He inquires about the direction of the village, which lies north within a forest, hidden behind a frozen waterfall. The child explains that he was only trying to make everyone proud. Jakub escorts Caldur back to his home, while the others reconvene.

Curious about the power of the sunlight, Dawn questions Aastrid, who admits she is unsure. Dawn reveals that the symbol is an ancient relic of the Morning Lord, once belonging to an angel who performed holy deeds in Barovia.Aastrid and Nix explain how Zilveren's ghost bestowed the talisman upon them.

As Jakub walks alongside Caldur, the child shares his harrowing tale. His family was attacked by a winter wolf with a scorpion's tail, and his parents instructed him to hide. After witnessing more wolves, he fled toward the lake.

Caldur inquires if Jakub is following the elf with peculiar ears, mentioning that his father spoke of a fire burning within Jakub's eyes, suggesting he would undertake the test at the Temple of Amber. However, they are not supposed to venture there until they consult the village elder. As they reach the village hidden behind the frozen waterfall, they notice the pack leader, heavily injured, standing 200 feet above. Above him looms a creature Jakub has never encountered before—an wolf fused with a scorpion. Both the creature and the pack leader fix their gazes upon Jakub. Urging Caldur to swiftly run to the village and request help outside the waterfall, Jakub proceeds at a steady pace.

Meanwhile, Aastrid, Dawn, and Nix embark on their journey toward the village. They tend to their wounds and engage in discussions about their next steps. Dawn enlightens them about the true nature of the Abbot's patients, revealing that they were once a cursed family of individuals who exhibited cruelty and vanity, now transformed into humble beings.

Returning to Jakub, he finds himself in combat with the pack leader and the wolf-scorpion hybrid. Caldur has already made his way home, and Jakub, using invisibility, tracks the child's footprints.

## Session Thirty-Three: Tsolenka Pass

The repulsive shoosuva, that hideous wolf-scorpion creature responsible for attacking the family, refrains from attacking Jakub and the child we saved. It is nowhere to be found when the rest of the group reaches the village.

Jakub is taken by the villagers to meet the village chief, but they ignore his questions. When he asks if they know Nix, they seem more at ease. He is then brought before a formidable-looking woman who questions him about the whereabouts of everyone else. Jakub tells her about Nix, explaining that she is our guide up the Salanka Pass and how we found Caldur. The chief expresses sorrow upon learning that there are no other companions dressed like Nix. She believes Nix has failed to save their druid kin. Jakub also mentions Kasimir, the dusk elf who came before him. After sharing the details of his quest, he is offered a place by their fire.

Jakub has a conversation with Caldur. The Amber Temple is a rite of passage to become a chief, a test of courage and mental fortitude.

Approximately an hour later, the rest of the group arrives at the village entrance. Nix approaches the waterfall, recognizing the secret entrance and opening it. They proceed through the tunnel, although Nix is chilled to the bone. She calls out to inform the villagers of their arrival. A druidic response follows Nix's call, and the berserkers allow Nix and the group to enter the village.

Nix rushes to Caldur, who momentarily mistakes her silhouette for his late mother. Tearfully, he shares that his mom is dead and asks if Nix can bring her back. He also inquires about the whereabouts of everyone else. Nix assures him there is much to discuss and asks about the chief's location. Jakub spots the group and informs them that the chief went to find the elder.

Nix proceeds to meet with Chief Yigrid and the village elder. The elder holds Nix in high regard for consecrating two fanes and rejecting the dark powers. The elder inquires about the gods the group serves.

A druid named Helwa recently went to the temple as a rite of passage, accompanied by her trusted companions. Cassamere, the dusk elf, also ventured there, but his intentions remain unclear. Sangzor the Savage, an extremely ill-tempered giant goat, has made an appearance in the vicinity. The deepest chambers of the Amber Temple house a lich, guarded by a demon surrounded by flaming skulls. To gain entry, we must offer it secrets.

We are invited to a ceremony for the deceased and provided with warm clothing to wear. During the night, a massive fire is ignited. In the absence of the bodies of those killed by the shuoosuva or the faithless, the elder asks Nix to contribute an item symbolizing their presence and place it in the fire. As this solemn act unfolds, we witness the tribe speaking triumphantly of the lives lived by the departed.

While everyone gazes into the fire, Caldur approaches Nix and requests a private conversation. He reveals that when the dusk elf with short ears arrived, he overheard the elf discussing how death would have no dominion over him in his sleep. The elf was in a trance and mentioned the name Patrina while expressing the intent to fix something. Caldur believes the dusk elf is heading to the temple to find Patrina. He asks if he could request the elf to bring everyone back. Nix promises Caldur that she will try, but emphasizes the need for him to remain strong.

Ray, in a demiplane, encounters Zen Terraflow's familiar, Dawn the Owl, who is unfamiliar with the concept of a fane.

We press on along the Tsolenka Pass, hearing the mournful cries of snow maidens emanating from the hills. We also come across the entrance to a cave, where Dawn spots wolf pawprints nearby. We attempt to cautiously pass the cave but draw the attention of the shoosuva and the last remaining winter wolf. Combat ensues.

Nix transforms into a majestic polar bear and summons two fierce brown bears to aid us in battle. An enchanting snow maiden unleashes a devastating Life Drain, obliterating one of the bears and inflicting damage upon another. The Shoosuva strikes the brown bear, injecting its venomous poison and paralyzing the creature with its stinger tail. The winter wolf targets Dawn, launching a ferocious attack.

Jakub commands Ray to assist Dawn, granting her advantage on her next melee strike. He then places a hex on the Shoosuva and unleashes eldritch blasts upon the winter wolf. Aastrid conjures magical missiles, directing them towards the wolf with precision. Dawn fearlessly counterattacks the winter wolf, dealing a significant blow. Nix engages in a fierce combat with the snow maiden, while other snow maidens retaliate against Nix.

The shoosuva delivers a fatal blow, claiming the last remaining bear's life. Jakub launches a relentless assault on the shoosuva. Aastrid attempts to cast banishment, but to her dismay, she hears the sinister voice of Strahd mocking her. The banishment spell fails, for such magic holds no power within the confines of Barovia. Aastrid retaliates with sacred flame, shedding her invisibility.

Dawn vanquishes the winter wolf before turning her attention to the weakened shoosuva. However, her attacks prove less effective, as the creature exhibits resistance to non-magical damage. The shoosuva inflicts severe damage upon Dawn. Undeterred, Jakub continues his assault, drawing blood and weakening the shoosuva.Aastrid casts Hypnotic Pattern, but it fails to ensnare any of our foes.

Dawn hurls a chromatic orb at the shoosuva, discerning its fiendish nature. Nix conjures a protective Wall of Fire, separating us from the remaining shoosuva and two snow maidens. We eventually triumph over the Shoosuva and the snow maidens, emerging victorious from the intense battle.

Entering the cave, we prepare to set up the protective shelter of the tiny hut. Dawn takes the opportunity to investigate the cave and discovers five precious diamonds, along with a shard of amber. As she gazes into the shard, its appearance shifts from translucent amber to something dark and viscous, as if an oily substance swirls within. She notices her reflection in the shard, revealing a peculiar fur-like growth on her forehead. Blinking, the reflection vanishes, leaving only the solid amber shard.

Jakub peers into the shard of amber and hears a voice whispering, "You appear healthy." He recognizes this as the voice of Yog the Invincible, a legendary being spoken of by the drunken elder Martikovs. Dawn, in an attempt to shatter the shard against the wall, inadvertently reveals a hidden passage behind it. When they continue after a rest, they discover a bridge in the tundra.

At the end of a long bridge, we encounter Rahadin. Dawn initiates diplomatic communication, but her efforts fall short. Ember launches the first attack, and combat ensues.

Suddenly, four wights appear, and Rahadin swiftly strikes Dawn and Jakub. Overwhelmed by the relentless assault, Jakub falls, his life extinguished. In that very moment, a dark power summons him, offering a second chance at life in exchange for a mission to find Yog at the temple. Jakub, embracing the offer, undergoes a transformation, his body covered in dark, oily fur.

To our surprise, a colossal Roc swoops in. Startled, Ember slips away, hiding against the cliffside. Jakb attempts to grapple Rahadine, but the agile foe slips free. Rahadin deftly mounts Strahd's horse and flees. One of the group has taken on a dark pact--and we're not even in the temple yet.

## Session Thirty-Four: Kasimir Velikov

We successfully flee from the Roc, our hearts pounding as we reach a treacherously long snowy ridge that stretches for about a mile. Down below, the Svalich Woods are shrouded in an eerie fog. Deep gouges mar the ridge, evidence of some unknown creature's presence. We scan the area and suddenly spot a figure concealed amidst the snow-covered bluff above us. It resembles a foul-tempered goat, glaring at us before emitting a defiant bleat. Is it preparing to attack?

Nix channels her magic and conjures two majestic giant eagles. As they materialize, piles of heavy snow above us tremble but miraculously hold their ground. Jakub taps into his powers and casts Aid, fortifying each of us with an additional 10 hit points. Dawn focuses her divine senses on the goat, sensing that it carries no influence of angels or fiends. Rather, it's simply an incredibly malevolent goat. She approachesAastrid, procures an apple, and offers it to the goat. Tossing it, she watches for a reaction, but the goat remains seemingly unfazed.

Nix's eagles soar towards the goat, ready to strike should it make any hostile moves. Fixating on the apple, the goat plunges its face into the core, revealing menacing teeth. It lunges at one of the eagles, inflicting damage. The eagles seize the opportunity and retaliate, dealing some blows to the goat. In response, the goat charges fiercely towards Jakub.

Astrid attempts to subdue the goat using Hypnotic Pattern and Sacred Flame, but the goat defies her efforts with two natural 20 saves. It mocksAastrid with a bleat of derision. Jakub disengages from the goat, swiftly making his way toAastrid and Dawn. He then casts Healing Word, restoring Dawn's vitality. Dawn attempts to retreat but falls victim to the goat's stomping hooves as she passes by.

The eagles press on, relentlessly attacking the goat. The goat fixates its attention onAastrid, attempting to shove her off the cliff's edge. However, Jakub's cutting words prevent it from succeeding.Aastrid employs a shortbow dipped in shoosuva's poison, dealing a substantial blow to the goat. Swiftly, she dashes away, evading any reprisals from the creature.

Nix taps into her magic once again, enabling her to communicate with animals. Curiously, she engages in a bizarre conversation with the goat, attempting to uncover the reason for its hostility. Jakub slips through the goat's legs, disengaging swiftly and making his escape. Dawn follows suit, fleeing from the scene. The eagles renew their assault, causing further harm to the goat. With a chilling declaration, the goat reveals its intent to eliminate our group. It then intentionally slams into the cliff, triggering an avalanche.

Astrid dashes away, navigating the treacherous terrain. With nimble footwork, she skillfully avoids any mishaps. Nix propels herself forward, encountering a minor obstacle but successfully overcoming it in her haste. Jakub rushes ahead, almost venturing too far off the ledge but managing to maintain his balance on the ridge.

Sangzor, the brave little creature, leaps into an alcove, away from danger, bleating in support as we flee.

The avalanche relentlessly pursues us, its menacing presence close behind.Aastrid races forward, momentarily deviating from the trail, only to feel the icy grasp of a snow maiden's touch as she passes. The snow maiden launches an attack on Ember in passing. Nix swiftly transforms into an owl, soaring above the cascading avalanche. Jakub and Dawn, too, dash forward without complications. The avalanche catches up, but we skillfully evade its wrath, avoiding the exhaustion it threatens.

Nix spots a hidden refuge within the cliff and emits a hooting signal, guiding us towards the safety of the crevice. Jakub stumbles and falls, enduring injuries that leave him incapacitated. Dawn rushes to Jakub's aid, healing him just in time before resuming her escape.

Nix descends toAastrid, attempting to pull her into the crag in the cliff. With determination,Aastrid navigates her way into the safety of the crevice, while Nix repeats the same effort with Jakub. Jakub grasps the situation and follows the party, finding refuge within the crag. Finally, the group safely escapes the blizzard and avalanche.

Now, we find ourselves in a cave—a spacious yet desolate chamber. Dawn pulls Jakub aside, inquisitive about the strange fur covering him. Jakub skillfully deceives Dawn, hinting that he may have fallen victim to a curse by Rahadin. He suggests that the Amber Temple might hold the answers to removing the fur.

Astrid and Nix engage in conversation, andAastrid, employing her arcane knowledge, speculates that Jakub may have struck a pact with a dark power. Sensing a similarity to their past Fey encounter,Aastrid shares her suspicions with Nix. As they investigate the cave, they discover a roughly carved inscription beneath the rocky surface. In common, it reads, "The shadows lie." Intriguingly, a phrase is repeated below it. Simultaneously, they notice the shadowy figure of an approaching entity.Aastrid readies her sword as Dawn and Jakub draw closer.

The figure before us is clad in frost-covered garments, exhaustion and the cold shaking their body. In their trembling hand, a weakly flickering torch illuminates their weary face.Aastrid bravely steps forward, demanding to know the figure's identity. Their response is a retort, questioning our own identities.Aastrid, unyielding, asserts her position and the threat of her sword. The figure recognizes the futility of conflict in our shared predicament, acknowledging their arrival here a week ago. Dawn, ever compassionate, suggests that we join forces and share our meager provisions to find warmth together.

Astrid keenly observes the figure's eyes, recognizing a profound melancholy and a glimmer of hope. Suddenly, the Hall of Bones flashes through her mind, envisioning this figure standing alongside us, defying Strahd. Nix approaches with a dancing flame, drawing closer to the figure, inquiring about their name. They introduce themselves as Kasimir Velikov. Nix introduces herself and the rest of our party, while Jakub curiously asks about the location of Kasimir's fire. As we make our way there, Dawn offers her healing touch to ease Kasimir's suffering.

Dawn, ever curious, asks Kasimir to share their reason for coming here. Kasimirreveals that they used to reside near Vallaki, finding shelter among the Vistani. However, their leader's erratic behavior and a fellow kinsman's mention of adventurers traveling towards the Amber Temple stirred Kasimir's curiosity and hope for respite from torment. Thus, they decided to embark on the same journey.

Jakub skillfully maintains his ruse, successfully deceivingAastrid and the rest of us into believing that Rahadin's curse afflicts him. Dawn retrieves the amber shard, comparing it to Jakub's condition, while Casimere reveals two shards of his own. Dawn peers into one, finding her reflection tainted with sickly yellow eyes.

Jakub attempts to seize the shards, but Dawn swiftly intervenes, claiming them for herself. Our group engages in a discussion, attempting to unravel the mysterious properties of the amber shards. When Jakub touches the shards of amber, he senses a connection to the Ritual of Amber. Nix reaches out and touches the amber shard, suddenly hearing Caldur's voice beckoning her to the Amber Temple, promising strength to bring back her parents.

Astrid gazes upon the amber shard after it is taken from Nix, hearing Jasper's voice. He remarks on her unfamiliar scent and suggests they have a conversation when she arrives at the temple. We collectively agree to entrust Kasimir and Dawn with the amber shards and decide to rest, seeking a moment of respite.

Astrid and Nix venture outside in search of supplies while Kasimir takes the opportunity to inquire about Jakub's fur condition and his previous encounters with the temple. Jakub denies any prior visits and questions whether his condition may be something other than Rahadin's curse. As Jakub ponders the magical properties of the other two shards, he hears his father's voice, a voice he cannot recall hearing before, promising to reunite them. Kasimir is driven by a desire to right a past wrong, a time before Strahd's tyranny consumed the land, and he embarks on a path of redemption.

Meanwhile, our companions investigate the surroundings, and Nix stumbles upon the weathered pack of a long-gone adventurer. Inside, she discovers a wealth of gold and platinum pieces, along with a torn letter. The names mentioned belong to adventurers of a bygone era. The letter speaks of breaking a promise and an unwavering pursuit of visions, driven by the desire to bring back a loved one. Aastrid finds a map leading to the Amber Temple and tattered clothes, while Dawn uncovers parchments bearing a repeated text, reminiscent of the cave entrance. Written in Celestial, the words warn, "Do not accept their gifts." We share our findings with one another, with Dawn emphasizing the importance of refusing any offers from the Amber Temple.

As we follow the map's guidance, we find ourselves standing near the imposing Rimespire Canyon, a deep chasm adorned with treacherous spikes, spanning 200 feet in depth and only six feet wide. Advancing further, we reach a cavern featuring a narrow stone bridge.Aastrid employs her Clairvoyance spell to gain insight into the front of the Amber Temple. Though no sights meet her eyes, she catches a whisper in Abyssal, alluding to the acceptance of gifts.Aastrid and Jakub successfully traverse the bridge, but as Dawn attempts to follow suit, the menacing call of the Roc echoes through the air.

Nix confidently steps onto the bridge and employs Fey Step to gracefully cross to safety.Aastrid, quick-witted, instructs Jakub to seize Dawn and employs Dimension Door to transport them to the front of the Amber Temple. The Roc, determined to impede our progress, triggers an avalanche deliberately, obstructing our path towards the temple. Jakub skillfully employs his Thieves' Tools to unlock the double doors of the Amber Temple, with Dawn swiftly following him inside. The Roc's assault shifts towards Kasimir and Nix, launching a brutal attack that inflicts significant damage. The rest of us scramble towards the temple doors, evading the crashing ice spires sent in our direction.

With the group successfully reaching the threshold of the Amber Temple, Jakub's ears are filled with a chorus of voices, all extending a chilling welcome home.

## Session Thirty-Five: The Amber Temple

The group gathers, each member consumed by their pressing concerns as they embark on their journey. Nix, fueled by worry, fears that Caldur may have already reached the dreaded Amber Temple or is en route. Her heart aches for the chief's daughter who ventured there and miraculously survived for a whole week. Nix contemplates a daring rescue mission, all while seeking any knowledge the temple holds to vanquish the tyrant Strahd and restore the sacred fanes.

Dawn's focus narrows to a single purpose—liberating Barovia and freeing the imprisoned Abbot. She senses that the path to redemption for Strahd lies within the temple's ancient walls, yet doubts cloud her mind, unsure of how to achieve such a monumental task. Troubled by Jakub's plight and the enigmatic curse cast upon him by Rahadin, Dawn hopes to uncover answers within the temple's depths. She is also keen on unraveling the mystery surrounding Kasimir.

Kasimir, grateful to be in the company of capable adventurers, finds himself captivated by their cause. The prospect of righting past wrongs beckons him, and he eagerly embraces the opportunity to navigate the treacherous Amber Temple alongside his newfound allies.

Aastrid's presence in Barovia bewilders her, and a peculiar encounter with Jasper's voice upon touching an amber shard fuels her curiosity. She senses a beckoning, a destiny awaiting her within the temple's confines. Remembering the warning etched in the cave, cautioning against trusting shadows and accepting gifts, Aastrid braces herself for the revelations that lie ahead.

Jakub, driven by determination, grasps the magnitude of the temple's potential and its offer of unrivaled power. Yearning for the elusive ability to cheat death, he keeps his companions in the dark regarding the mysterious changes in his fur. The newfound survival it provides compels Jakub to explore every opportunity the temple presents.

As Jakub peers down a hallway, the others gaze upon an inscription above the doors, a solemn warning to all who dare enter the temple. A trail of recent footprints in the snow near the entrance captures their attention, a clear indication that someone has recently traversed this perilous path. Undeterred, the group proceeds, venturing into the depths of the temple.

Dawn, seeking guidance amidst her uncertainty, turns to Kasimir, beseeching him to aid the group in their quest. Admitting her own lack of clarity, she reveals her intentions to find a means to redeem Strahd, to break the curse that ensnares him. Kasimir hesitates, questioning Dawn's allegiance to Strahd, to which she vehemently denies any association, stressing her desire to free the land from its curse and assist the Abbot.

Kasimir, sharing fragments of his past, reveals his existence in Barovia predating Strahd's arrival. Dawn implores him to share his knowledge, seeking a solution to release Strahd from his curse. Kasimir, regretfully, admits his lack of knowledge in that regard, expressing his fervent desire to witness Strahd receiving the retribution he deserves.

The group enters a grand chamber adorned with staircases and open doors, a vast expanse before them. Suddenly, a commanding voice reverberates through the room, questioning their intent—whether they come seeking the temple's secrets or aiming to pilfer them. Astrid and Jakub resolutely deny such intentions, prompting the creature to demand secrets from each intruder.

Jakub establishes a telepathic connection with the voice, sharing the group's accomplishment of restoring the Huntress and the Weaver, the ancient fanes. Surprised by this revelation, the voice grants Jakub permission to proceed. Astrid offers one of her potions, but the voice insists on two more before allowing her entry.

Kasimir, recalling the stone dragons within Castle Ravenloft, shares their origin—a time when they were living pseudo-dragons belonging to the dusk elves. Strahd claimed them as spoils of his conquest, turning them into the petrified sentinels they are now. Acknowledging this knowledge, the creature permits Kasimir to enter.

Aastrid discloses the presence of the skull of Argonvost within the Hall of Bones, capturing the voice's interest. Satisfied with this information, the creature grants Astrid passage. Dawn recounts witnessing Baba Lysaga claim a baby as Strahd, but the voice dismisses this as far from the truth, demanding an alternative offering.

Nix seizes the opportunity to share her discovery of the talisman, but the voice expresses greater interest in possessing the talisman itself. Kasimir steps forward, presenting the amber shards, while Dawn contributes an amber shard of her own. The creature, appeased by these offerings, permits both Dawn and Nix to proceed into the heart of the temple, their fates intertwining with its mysterious depths.

Jakub strides into the room on the left, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a sharp focus. Recent signs of a doused fire, bedrolls, and packs indicate that someone had been here not long ago. Nix recognizes the belongings as part of her tribe, and a surge of concern washes over her.

In the meantime, Aastrid ventures towards the right, cautiously peering into a different chamber. Her gaze falls upon a rough-edged hole in the floor, but as she looks into it, her heart skips a beat. Three flameskulls stare back at her, their menacing presence sending a shiver down her spine. She retreats silently, making her way back to the rest of the group.

Jakub, Dawn, Kasimir, and Nix continue onward, stepping into the hallway. There, they discover a lifeless body lying on the ground. Their attention is soon drawn to three flameskulls, their fiery gazes fixed upon the group. Though the flameskulls seem alerted to their presence, they don't immediately launch an attack. Nix recognizes the fallen body as one of Helwa's guards and notices three other members of her tribe in a nearby room. However, they appear exhausted, and Nix decides against disturbing their rest. Jakub inquires about Aastrid's whereabouts, only to learn that she is catching up with the group. Concerned for her tribespeople, Nix chooses to remain behind.

As Jakub moves forward, he spots an open door revealing a miniature rendition of a variant of Castle Ravenloft. Intrigued, he steps closer, while Astrid joins him in the room. Compelled by curiosity, Aastrid reaches out to touch the miniature castle, immediately sensing its magical significance. To her astonishment, the flameskulls grow agitated, their eyes ablaze with fury. Suddenly, the room is charged with tension, and the group finds themselves plunged into combat. The clash begins, and each member must act swiftly to survive.

Dawn swiftly steps forward, attempting to reason with the flameskulls and apologize for any unintended offense. Kasimir, on the other hand, takes a defensive stance, closing the door behind him. Within the room, Astrid's keen eyes catch sight of a secret door and a chest with a false bottom. Sensing an opportunity, she spots a tome and seizes it.

The flameskulls, their fiery powers unleashed, unleash a barrage of fireballs at the door. Both Kasimir and Jakub, displaying their arcane prowess, manage to counter one fireball each. However, the third fireball pierces through their defenses, obliterating the door in its wake. Jakub urges Aastrid to drop the tome and move away from the flameskulls, repositioning himself to avoid their wrath.

In the midst of the chaos, Nix rushes to awaken Helwa. The tribal leader, still groggy, urges the group to wake up, her voice filled with urgency. Suddenly, the sound of an explosion reverberates from the adjacent room, catching their attention. Nix, resourceful as ever, splashes water from a horn onto Helwa's face, jolting her awake.

Dawn and Aastrid, amidst the chaos, attempt to reason with the flameskulls, pleading for them to halt their attacks. The flameskulls demand more power or magical knowledge as an offering to allow their passage. Nix conjures two bears, but Kasimir advises her to dismiss them, recognizing the futility of the gesture.

The Flameskulls, in a surprising twist, grant Aastrid another chance, momentarily withholding their actions. Jakub urges Nix to hand over her spear. Dawn suggests that Aastrid offer her holy symbol (gifted by Zilveren's shade), but Aastrid staunchly refuses. The Flameskulls chatter excitedly at the sight of her holy symbol.

Nix ventures back into the room where her tribespeople reside. Meanwhile, Aastrid decides to present Fey's holy symbol as an offering. However, the Flameskulls do not appear amused. They retaliate with two fireballs, with Kasimir expertly countering one. Undeterred, Aastrid then offers the stolen spellbook from Strahd's tome. The Flameskulls accept the book as payment and return to their posts.

Nix gathers the group and shares her encounter with the tribespeople. Dawn scans the surroundings, seeking out shadows. As she looks toward her own shadow, she witnesses the silhouette of a much younger woman—a reflection of Dawn from her encounter with Baba Lysaga. Suddenly, the shadow of a crone's mouth engulfs the younger woman, swallowing her whole.

The party proceeds into a new room, where an opulent feast adorns the table. However, skepticism lingers in the air, and they decide to press on. Jakub enters the next room, revealing an altar and a statue. Two lifeless bodies slump against the statue. Jakub's attention is drawn to a face resembling his own, but aged—a haunting vision of his father. The facial hair on the statue begins to writhe, oozing oil and creeping towards the eyes. Jakub manages to muster his willpower and succeeds in a wisdom saving throw. Upon looking again, there is nothing amiss. He warns everyone to avert their gazes from the statue.

Aastrid, unable to resist her curiosity, gazes at the statue and is confronted with Glasstaff's visage. It speaks, saying, "I remember you! You've come to join me? You work for the Black Spider now?" Aastrid fails the wisdom saving throw and perceives the teeth transforming into spider fangs. Compelled, she starts moving toward the statue.

Dawn and Jakub intervene, attempting to halt Asatrid's approach. Inadvertently, Dawn gazes upon the statue and sees the Abbot, who urges her to shatter the statue for her freedom. Drawing closer, she experiences a flash of the failed rebellion—comrades, her distant mother poised to infiltrate the castle, the rhythmic beat of drums, the general raising his sword, and the call to action. She witnesses the onslaught of Strahd's forces, bloodshed, decapitated bodies, and vampire spawn ravaging her allies. Arrows pierce her own body, and her mother suffers a brutal fate. In a matter of seconds, the rebellion crumbles. Dawn desperately drags herself away from the battlefield, hearing Strahd's voice taunt, "I am a just ruler, Sister Dawn. Do you not believe I have earned my place as lord of Barovia? Do you know what happens to those who betray me?" She awakens from the trance, her comrades wounded and dying.

Meanwhile, Nix and Kasimir cautiously make their way to the scene as Jakub and Dawn struggle to pull Astrid away from the statue.

In glimpses, their individual thoughts manifest. Jakub's curiosity remains unwavering as he seeks what he desires. Nix worries about the druids in the adjacent room, driven to find a cure for them. Dawn grapples with shame for momentarily believing the Abbot's spirit could reside in such a place. Kasimir hopes that placing trust in these reckless adventurers will not backfire. Ember bears the weight of responsibility for Jamie's demise.

Within the secret chamber, a decrepit, skeletal figure—a lich—awaits. Victor Vallakovich's name is inscribed in the book possessed by the lich. Jakub notices a book labeled "Exethanter" and queries if it pertains to the creature's name. In response, the lich's eyes roll back, and he cautions them against revealing their own names. Jakub proceeds to cross out the names he had written down, replacing them with the names of their enemies.

Dawn pulls the group aside, sharing that he possesses a recipe for a potion of Greater Restoration, missing only holy water. He suggests collaborating to brew the potion, which would aid them in their search. Kasimir, Dawn, and Aastrid join forces, diligently concocting the potion.

Exethanter imbibes the potion, and a radiant white glow envelops him as his memory restored.

## Session Thirty-Six: Exethanter's Revelations

Our story unfolds with the characters driven by their own intentions: Dawn, filled with worry, seeks a way to aid the Abbot. Aastrid yearns for an escape from this place and believes the librarian holds the key. Nix, intrigued by the librarian's mention of her not belonging to Barovia, craves answers and survival. Jakub thirsts for knowledge about the dark powers within the temple and the formidable dread plane.

Exethanter, observing the group, invites them to sit. Dawn inquires about the painting on the ceiling, depicting angels in hell. Exethanter reveals its purpose—to serve as a reminder that even the brightest souls can succumb to corruption.

Jakub seeks clarification on the dread plane, prompting Exethanter to theorize that this place exists within a subsection of the Shadowfell. He explains that he, too, hailed from a realm known as the Prime Material Plane. Roughly a millennium ago, Barovia merged with a mirrored world. Nix questions the reality of it all, to which Exethanter cryptically responds, leaving her with fragmented memories of this place. The group realizes their collective recollections are limited to their time spent in Barovia.

Aastrid shares her experience in Elysium, surprising Exethanter. He asserts that the Shadowfell should not reach such a celestial realm. Dawn inquires how Aastrid ended up here, leading Exethanter to propose a theory. He suggests that the dark powers seek equilibrium by consuming the souls of adventurers who enter this realm. As some dark powers grow weakened, they draw upon souls from elsewhere to replenish their energy. Exethanter hints at previous champions who have battled and fallen to Strahd, subtly gesturing towards Jakub, exposing his falsehoods regarding agreements with dark powers.

Curiosity propels Jakub to question the number of dark powers, prompting Exethanter to disclose over twenty such entities residing within the demiplane of dread. He explains that multiple demiplanes exist, each housing its own dark powers.

Exethanter reveals that Strahd, the champion of Vampyr, holds this demiplane together. Barovia's existence within this realm stems from Strahd's ritualistic pact with a dark power. Nix wonders if the cycle can be broken and the dread plane destroyed. Exethanter explains that as souls vanish from Barovia, the insatiable hunger of the dark powers intensifies, driving their desire to escape into the material plane.

Aastrid ponders if a dark power plucked her from Elysium, intending for her to become their champion. Exethanter acknowledges the possibility of dark powers reaching into the Feywild but emphasizes the implausibility of one seizing a soul from Elysium. Intrigued by Asatrid, he expresses a desire to study her, if she consents.

Nix seeks reassurance that the dark powers will know her purpose for being here, and Exethanter confirms this.

Turning to Kasimir, Exethanter inquires about his desires. Kasimir reveals his dreams, compelling him to come here to resurrect someone. Dawn questions his motives, considering the treachery of his sister, who once aligned with Strahd and killed a dusk elf woman and child. Kasimir explains that his sister, Patrina, a former bride of Strahd, reached out to him in his dreams, claiming to have seen the errors of her ways. Jakub queries if a dark power within the temple can fulfill Kasimir's wish, to which Exethanter confirms its plausibility.

Dawn adamantly opposes descending further to encounter the dark powers. She engages Kasimir, persuading him to reconsider. She questions if resurrecting his sister or defeating Strahd truly serves their best interests. Kasimir admits his doubts about his sister but firmly believes that eliminating Strahd will solve their problems if Patrina remains deceased. He also believes that the secret to breaking the curse lies within the temple. Reluctantly, he agrees to abstain from descending if Dawn can discover a solution to defeat Strahd and end the curse. Dawn assures him of their collective strength, assuring him they can accomplish it together.

Dawn rushes to Aastrid, her voice filled with urgency and concern. She pleads with her, desperately begging her not to descend into the depths of the temple. She warns Asatrid of the dangers that await, the temptations that the dark powers may use to manipulate her memories. Dawn admits her lack of understanding regarding Aastrid's arrival in Barovia, but she believes that the dark powers hold sway over her. She pleads for more time, promising to find an answer within the next 24 hours. If she fails, Aastrid is resolved to go downstairs, regardless of the risks.

Meanwhile, Nix approaches Exethanter, her voice steady but filled with curiosity. She asks the ancient librarian if he is familiar with a name—Fey—the companion who was once selected as a champion. She seeks any knowledge that may shed light on the fate of her missing friend.

Jakub, driven by his desire to cheat death, poses his query to Exethanter. His eyes set on becoming a Lich in Exethanter, he yearns for a dark power that can grant him such power. Exethanter directs him towards the lower levels of the temple, suggesting that Sykane the Soul Hungerer might be the dark power he seeks. Despite Dawn's attempts to dissuade him, Jakub disregards her words and descends into the depths.

As Jakub ventures downstairs, the rest of the group remains on the upper level, their minds focused on unraveling the mystery surrounding Astrid. Exethanter, engrossed in his search for answers, sifts through numerous books with a sense of imminent discovery. A breakthrough feels close at hand. He mentions the elder evils and questions Aastrid. Can she still cast the Arms of Hadar spell? Astrid answers with a regretful no. Exethanter delves into the knowledge he possesses, revealing the existence of the far realm, where these elder evils originate.

He explains the two distinct multiverses—the one that should be and the one that should not be. Among the latter, Hadar resides, an entity that cultists on the material plane unwittingly call upon. Exethanter posits that when a spellcaster draws power from an extraplanar entity not native to the Shadowfell or Barovia, it must be an elder evil. He suggests that Hadar was the one responsible for plucking Aastrid from Elysium. Astrid queries the purpose of the elder evils and the dark powers in Barovia, to which Exethanter admits his lack of knowledge regarding the elder evils but affirms that the dark powers feed on souls and emotions. He explains their desire to entice more people to seek them out, suggesting that eventually, a champion of the dark powers may find themselves in their own demiplane.

Seeking further information, Dawn questions if Exethanter can leave the confines of the Amber Temple. He dismisses the notion, stating that he has no desire to do so. Nix then asks if there is a way to break free from this demiplane. Exethanter provides three possibilities—a membership with the Vistani, making a deal with a different dark power, or uncovering a method detailed in a book. He expresses his desire for their assistance in finding this book.

As the group tries to rest, they are afflicted with a strange unease. Forgetfulness, stomach sickness, and other discomforts prevent them from gaining the benefits of a long rest, adding to their already mounting challenges.

In the lower level of the temple, Jakub encounters a chamber adorned with decaying wooden crates and murals depicting tentacles, regal figures, and ancient images. Among the crates, brutal sword marks slash through them all, revealing a consistent pattern of damage. Undeterred by the eerie scene, Jakub continues his search and enters another room. In the midst of this room stands a towering statue of a hawk's head, alongside a trove of treasure. Though cautious, Jakub examines the treasures without touching them.

Suddenly, the statue vanishes, and the reflection of the surrounding amber surfaces reveals a disturbing sight—his own reflection, devoid of fur, wildly gesticulating and silently warning him. His mother's visage materializes, pleading with him to halt his progress. Echoing cries of warning surround him, yet Jakub can only see their faces without hearing their pleas. Driven by his determination to reach his destination, Jakub pays little heed to the haunting images on the walls. Breaking an arcane lock, he proceeds into the next chamber, where he encounters flame skulls. Despite their warning not to touch the sarcophagus, Jakub succumbs to his impulses and reaches out to it.

A fierce battle ensues as the flame skulls attack, hurling fire at Jakub. With a swift counterspell, he manages to fend off one of the attacks. The fight proves perilous, and Jakub suffers significant injuries. Yet, the true danger lies in his ill-fated decision to touch the forbidden amber. Faced with a critical choice, he must either relinquish his physical form or retain it. Resolute in his purpose, Jakub chooses to abandon his corporeal self. Sykane, the soul hungerer, appears before him, ready to fulfill his promise. Extracting worms from his own stomach, Sykane offers them to Jakub, who consumes them with a sense of determination. As the worms take effect, Jakub feels a newfound resolve surging through him. His eyes glow yellow, a testament to the power he has gained—the ability to raise the dead.

Jakub unleashes his eldritch blasts upon the flame skulls, but they prove resilient, shielding themselves against his assaults. Buffeted by flames and teetering on the edge of consciousness, he senses the worms gnawing at his insides. With his life force waning, Jakub succumbs to the encroaching darkness, temporarily losing consciousness.

Meanwhile, Nix consults Exethanter about the Feywild, seeking to jog her fragmented memories. Exethanter enlightens her about the Feywild but laments his inability to assist her in recovering her lost recollections. He suggests that one of the dark powers may possess the answers she seeks. Astrid discerns that while Exethanter does not actively coax them downstairs, he also appears indifferent to their fate.

Dawn's quest for redemption proves fruitless as she fails to find substantial information. She discovers that alignment is not a definitive division between good and evil or lawfulness and goodness but rather a reflection of one's circumstances.

On the second day, Nix seeks Aastrid's assistance, prompting Aastrid to affirm her belief in their current situation. Nix inquires about Aastrid's planned descent, learning that her concerns revolve around Jakub's prolonged absence and the potential dangers he may face. Although Astrid had considered going downstairs, she now hesitates, while Nix contemplates venturing into the depths, wary of falling prey to the allure of the dark powers.

Another day passes as they continue their search for a book that might hold the key to escaping Barovia. Exethanter discovers an unfamiliar tome, titled the "Ritual of Amber." He explains that the ritual requires the presence of the target—the spirit of Vampyr, currently inhabiting Strahd—as well as a vessel, which can be an object or a creature, within a magical circle throughout the entire ritual. The culmination of the ritual results in the creation of a new being inheriting the strengths and weaknesses of both spirit and vessel. Exethanter reveals that Vampyr must be freed, and killing Strahd, his current host, is the first step. Once freed, Vampyr must be placed in a new vessel, which must possess great strength and willpower. Dawn ponders the possibility of becoming the vessel, considering it as a means to aid the Abbot.

Curious about how to vanquish Strahd, Nix seeks answers from Exethanter, who responds with genuine laughter. He explains that many have attempted to kill Strahd and have succeeded temporarily, yet he always returns. The group recalls the importance of locating Jakub and Dawn tries to dissuade them from descending further. However, Aastrid proceeds to the staircase, calling out for Jakub but receiving no response. Undeterred, Nix decides to descend into the depths.

Despite her fears, Dawn recalls the Abbot's guidance. A voice from a distant memory assures her that while Jakub may be mostly lost, parts of him may still be salvageable for one of the Abbot's projects. Encouraged by the Abbot's reassurance and the presence of the Morninglord, Dawn musters her courage and joins the group in their descent.

## Session Thirty-Seven: Respawn of the Calamity

The party ventures down into the depths of the Amber Temple, descending gold marble stairs that stretch 30 feet below. As they reach the dungeons, they are greeted by the sight of rotting caskets. Kasimir, weary from sleep deprivation but driven by his goal, seeks to commune with the Corpse Star and bring his sister back. Nix, plagued by forgetfulness and a sense of being disconnected from Barovia, yearns for answers about her true origins.

Dawn, overcome with fear and panic, her mind clouded and names slipping from her memory, knows the risks that lie ahead and is determined to protect her companions from the dark powers. Aastrid, feeling incorruptible, seeks answers and hopes to find Jakub within the dungeons.

The atmosphere in this place is thick with evil and foreboding. Nix senses a strange familiarity, as if she has been here before, while Kasimir's focus remains solely on the statue, reminiscent of the darkness that surrounded his own death before the Abbot's intervention.

Invisible hands, barely perceptible, seem to urge Nix forward, reminiscent of a past life when they once pulled her backward. Kasimir becomes transfixed by the voice of Fey emanating from an amber pillar, tempting him to explore further. He attempts to probe the pillar with his mind, but after a brief intervention, he hesitates and considers his options.

The group follows Jakub's tracks and Kasimir unexpectedly collides with an invisible structure—a humanoid figure clad in a loin cloth. This place exudes ancientness, and they enter another room adorned with a colossal statue of a faceless god. Dawn is unfamiliar with any deity matching its description, speculating that it may represent a different group of gods altogether.

As they progress, they come across the lifeless body of a hag, brutally killed in a desperate attempt to escape. In a fleeting moment, Nix catches a glimpse of Zilveren in a reflection before feeling the guiding hands pushing her forward. They make note of the location and move on. Arriving at a corridor with several doors, Aastrid discerns no sounds behind one, while Nix remains deaf to any activity from the next. Asatrid listens at the last door, hearing nothing. Dawn cautiously opens it, revealing a room filled with amber and adorned with skulls of green flame. Among them lies the nigh-unrecognizable corpse of Jakub, covered in worms.

As they retrieve Jakub's body and prepare to leave the room, they return to the chamber that had drawn Nix's attention. Two additional hags lie dead on the ground. Nix peers into one of the doors and discovers a slashed sarcophagus, seemingly breached from within. Upon closer inspection, she senses the presence of someone trapped inside, along with another malevolent entity. Asatrid realizes that this is where she will come into contact with the dark power that has ensnared Harsan. She plunges her dagger into the sarcophagus, feeling a ravenous hunger and a separate entity's intense hatred directed at her. Recognizing Harsan in a vision, she witnesses fire and smoke, as an undead forest melds into the surroundings. Harsan, no longer resembling his former self, believed he was coming here to eradicate the undead but fell victim to their treachery, mistaking the party for the undead.

Combat ensues, with Aastrid successfully charming Harsan, who wields two swords. Dawn casts hold person as a precaution, while Nix pushes him out of the liminal space. Harsan's training reveals untapped power within the sword he wields. In the distance, Dawn senses a looming figure—a multi-headed dragon that gazes upon her with sinister smiles. It dawns on her that everything they have encountered thus far has been orchestrated by the dark powers, all aligned in their desire to see Strahd suffer. Harsan has been returned to the party--after being saved and groomed for Strahd's destruction from one of the dark powers.

After freeing Harsan and bringing him back to consciousness, Aastrid releases her charm, but Dawn maintains her hold person spell on him. Harsan, taken aback by Astrid's embrace, remains uncertain about what brought him to the Amber Temple but expresses his desire to leave--and destroy the undead. However, Dawn is reluctant to allow him to depart from the temple, recognizing the potential dangers that await them outside.

Leaving the Amber Temple, the group continues their journey, but Kasimir lingers behind. A sense of curiosity overtakes him as he reaches out to touch the amber sarcophagus. Suddenly, he finds himself transported to a realm of intertwined mountains with veins pulsating through them. The sky above is a deep black, adorned with distant stars. Atop a hill, he gazes upon The Corpse Star, a chilling sight to behold.

A haunting voice echoes through the void, questioning Kasimir's purpose in this place. Is he here to bring back the ancient dead? And will he accept their gift? Filled with both intrigue and caution, Kasimir inquires about the price that must be paid. In response, Zhudun emerges, his voice a blend of both its own and Fey's. It assures Kasimir that there is no price to be paid. In fact, he is doing them a favor. With the mention of his sister, Kasimir extends his hand, meeting the outstretched hand of the creature.

Zhudun declares that the power now rests within Kasimir's grasp. As he turns to look back, Fey observes a subtle change in his appearance. His skin has grown grayer, his eyes hollower. Dawn, recognizing the signs, realizes that Kasimir now resembles her—a being touched by undeath.

In possession of a book detailing the ritual to vanquish Strahd, the group prepares for the next stage of their mission.

## Session Thirty-Eight: Roc and a Hard Choice

The group ascends the stairs and engages in a conversation with Exethanter. He inquires if they would be willing to spend more time with him while he can still recall their identities. Harsan mentions their intention to leave, but Dawn explains her failure to find the desired information downstairs.

Exethanter proceeds to repeat the three principles of the Amber ritual. First, the spirit of the dark power controlling the land must be liberated from Strahd's grasp. Second, the vessel must be bound, connecting the spirit of Vampyr to a new host. Finally, the two must merge and be destroyed. By obliterating the vessel, the dark power specific to this demiplane will also be eradicated.

Astrid asks if she was a champion or a vessel, to which Exethanter reveals that she was merely a possession, consuming souls for her elder evil power.

Dawn contemplates the possibility of carrying out the ritual but then resurrecting Strahd. Harsan strongly opposes this idea. Exethanter explains that if Vampyr and Strahd are both eliminated, another dark power would attempt to reach out to a different entity and establish a new dark lord in the demiplane.

They discuss the potential involvement of Zen Terraflow, the mage of the Shield of Wings who vanished after their failed revolution. Could he create a vessel, perhaps akin to a shield guardian? Alshudar provides information about Zen Terraflow, mentioning his ability to transform into animals. They surmise he might have been that magical deer they encountered before.

Harsan presents the group with the hilt of a sword he discovered. Dawn recognizes its resemblance to the armor worn by Strahd, bearing the same color scheme as the von Zarovich lineage. Harsan inquires about others who might have wielded this sword, prompting Kasimir to mention Strahd's father, mother, and brother. Kasimir proceeds to recount the history of Strahd, Tatyana, and Sergei, narrating the story witnessed from the Tome of the wedding.

Kasimir discloses that Strahd renamed the land Barovia, as it had a different name before his arrival (Cerrunos). Nix wonders if it's possible to undo the ritual Strahd performed to bind himself to the land. Exethanter explains that this demiplane is likely a realm of dread, making it nearly impossible to counteract. Dawn then asks if there is a way to revert the demiplane of dread back to its original state, but Exethanter expresses doubt.

Exethanter reveals that in the past, Patrina Velikov used to bring Strahd to the Amber Temple, and they became acquainted. He implies that without Patrina's involvement, Strahd wouldn't be who he is today. Kasimir reacts negatively to this revelation, while Dawn questions if Kasimir was aware of this, to which he responds with a denial.

They learn that Kasimir has embraced a dark power in order to bring his sister Patrina back. Kasimir admits that with this new knowledge, resurrecting his sister seems more complex than he initially thought.

Accidentally mentioning Exethanter's name causes him to lose his memory instantly. It becomes evident that his knowledge of his own name poses a grave danger to him due to his proximity to the dark powers. Exethanter has placed magical contingencies on himself to prevent recollection. The group fails to find the ingredients to concoct the potion that could restore his memory. However, Dawn realizes she still possesses the book. Aastrid considers using Dimension Door to take herself and Dawn to the library, but Dawn manages to convince her to abandon the plan.

Exethanter insists that everyone should depart. Harsan, Nix, and Aastrid exit the room, leaving Nix and Dawn alone with Exethanter in his quarters while he remains in the library.

As the three companions head towards the druids to rescue them, Harsan hears a voice urging him to drop the hilt he carries. Though no one else can perceive the voice, Harsan swiftly dashes toward the exit. Aastrid agrees to follow him and attempts to cast Dimension Door to facilitate their escape. However, the combined weight of the elf maiden and dragonborn causes the floor to collapse beneath them. They sustain some damage from the fall, and the voice counterspells the Dimension Door. Despite the setback, Harsan and Astrid find themselves outside the temple. Triumphantly, they embrace their unexpected victory.

Nix witnesses the grim scene unfold before her eyes and immediately rushes off to find the druids once again. She hurries to their room only to discover that they have all been mercilessly slain. Alarming figures seem to dash in the distance, raising further concerns.

Meanwhile, outside the temple, the Roc looms overhead, adding an additional layer of challenge to their already arduous situation. Aastrid instructs Harsan to bury himself in the snow for cover, and then, with determination, casts Dimension Door once more, whisking herself and Harsan away from the imminent threat of the Roc.

Back inside the temple, Nix taps into her primal connection with nature and assumes the form of a primal beast, empowered by the Guardian of Nature spell. With increased agility and speed, she surveys the aftermath of the massacre inflicted upon her tribe. Among the lifeless bodies, she notices the absence of Frida, as well as the chief, Helwa. In addition, she encounters a grotesque creature—a humanoid form merged with the lower body of a spider—that bears the marks of a brutal demise.

Moving into another chamber, Nix discovers Helwa lying on a cot, barely clinging to life. She approaches her and implores for an explanation of what transpired. Through labored breaths, Helwa reveals that Frida was responsible for the massacre and almost succeeded in killing her as well. The chief is uncertain of Frida's motivations for such a heinous act. Exhausted and teetering on the edge of death, Helwa expresses her belief that everyone else is dead. As Nix prepares to leave the room, a sudden onslaught of chain lightning strikes, grievously wounding both Nix and Helwa. To add to the calamity, three fireballs follow, claiming Helwa's life. A voice taunts Nix, referring to her as "naughty," and inquiring about the whereabouts of the others. Reacting swiftly, Nix transforms into a polar bear and dashes away, cradling Helwa in her powerful jaws.

Along her escape, Nix identifies the source of the voice—a fox-like creature garbed in robes resembling those of Exethanter. It is an Arcanaloth! The Arcanaloth casts Finger of Death at Nix, even in her polar bear form. Accompanying the Arcanaloth, the flameskulls unleash their fireballs, resulting in the demise of Helwa. Nix falls, succumbing to death, and subsequently rises as a zombie under the arcanaloth's control.

In the confines of Exethanter's chamber, Dawn and Kasimir overhear his anguished cries, sensing his profound distress. Dawn knocks on the door, and Exethanter, unsure of their identities, asks who is there. Introducing herself as Sister Morning, Dawn enters the room and greets Exethanter. She inquires if he remembers her, to which he replies negatively, questioning if they are friends. Both Dawn and Kasimir affirm their friendship and recount their earlier interaction when Exethanter showed them around the library.

With the book in Dawn's possession, Exethanter's memory lapses prevent him from recalling his ciphers. Dawn and Kasimir contemplate the task of transcribing the book, fully aware that it will demand considerable time and effort, likely requiring at least a day and a half of continuous work. Determined, Dawn and Kasimir begin their laborious task.

Meanwhile, Aastrid and Harsan decide to wait for the others, choosing to conceal themselves beneath the snow, adopting a patient stance.

During the hours of transcription, Dawn finds herself burdened with guilt for joining a rebellious group that failed to vanquish Strahd. She regrets involving her mother in the misguided belief that they could defeat Strahd with a mere sword. Kasimir shares the tale of the dusk elves who rebelled against Strahd and his father, refusing to pay taxes, only to face annihilation at the hands of their armies, ultimately surrendering. Dawn reflects on the Abbot's teachings about the potential for redemption for all, including Strahd. Kasimir counters, citing Strahd's repetitive cycle of malevolence with each reincarnation, indicating that he has exhausted his chances for redemption. Dawn declares her new quest to destroy Vampyr, the dark power that entwines with Strahd's existence. Unbeknownst to them, Exethanter silently observes their conversation.

As Dawn and Kasimir continue their work, they hear faint footsteps outside the door, accompanied by the presence of a small creature with a distinct tail. A hidden door opens, revealing the Arcanaloth carrying Alshudar, the shield. The Arcanaloth spekas about bringing Exethanter a companion for company, and upon noticing Dawn and Kasimir, questions Exethanter's familiarity with them. Exethanter confirms their acquaintance, prompting the Arcanaloth to caution Dawn and Kasimir against attempting to separate the shield from Exethanter—an agreement they readily acknowledge. They leave Alshudar, the transformed member of the Shield of Wings, in the Amber Temple.

## Session Thirty-Nine: V for Vendettas

We find Harsan and Aastrid standing outside the Amber Temple, surrounded by snow, patiently awaiting the return of Dawn and Nix. Engaging in some role-playing, they share a lighthearted moment reflecting on how they used to treat each other poorly, expressing gratitude for their newfound camaraderie.

Aastrid takes the opportunity to recount their encounter with a cantankerous goat in the druid village, leaving Harsan bewildered by the goat's ill temper. They exchange healing spells, reinforcing their bond, and agree to explore the cave the group had discovered earlier.

Meanwhile, we join Sister Dawn in a room where an arcanaloth has approached Exethanter, handing him Alshudar, the Shield. As the arcanaloth departs, Dawn, Kasimir, and Exethanter remain. Dawn is taken aback by the presence of the shield that belonged to her friend, Nix. She questions Exethanter about its origins, to which he simply remarks, "He was really nice, huh?" He's lost his memories again. Dawn, however, remains fixated on the shield's significance to her fallen comrade.

Exethanter, confused, asserts that the shield was meant for him, attempting to persuade Alshudar to join him. However, Alshudar reaches out to Dawn, disclosing the distressing news that Nix and the druid she was aiding were slain by the arcanaloth and flameskulls. Alshudar confides in Dawn that the arcanaloth threatened to kill her if he didn't stay with Exethanter. Alshudar yearns to reunite with Zen, Fisk, and continue their shared journey.

Dawn appeals to Exethanter, explaining that the shield held sentimental value as it was Nix's possession and her only connection to her fallen friend, whose body had been turned into a zombie. Despite her efforts to persuade him, Exethanter refuses to part with the shield. Alshidar warns Dawn that attempting to leave with him would only invite the arcanaloth's deadly wrath, and he willingly opts to remain to protect her. Resigned, Dawn conveys Alshudar's decision to stay with Exethanter, bringing the latter joy.

Returning to her transcription work, Dawn relays the events to Kasimir, expressing her desire to find a way to reclaim Nix's body. Kasimir regrets his inability to offer a solution, as those who perish in this realm seem to become property of the temple. Dawn acknowledges the difficulty but remains determined to try and bring her friend back, praising Nix as a true hero. They refocus on transcribing, committing themselves to the task at hand.

Meanwhile, Harsan and Aastrid make their way back to the cave where Aastrid had encountered Kasimir. The warmth of their friendship envelops them, and they revel in each other's company. Aastrid shares vital information about the Fanes, their encounter with Strahd during the dinner, the Hall of Bones, the Order of the Silver Dragon, the unsettling experiences of Fey, the dragon skull within the cave, the Abbot, Vasilka, the menacing hags, the revelation that the animals were once men, and Ireena's presence.

Aastrid calculates the time required for Dawn to complete the transcription, leading them to the decision to head to the cave. Opting not to light a fire, they engage in conversation. Suddenly, their passive perceptions detect three sets of footsteps: one light and sprightly, and the other two slow and shuffling. It becomes clear that they are not dealing with zombies, ghouls, or ghasts. Casting invisibility on themselves, Astrid and Harsan prepare for the encounter. To their surprise, it's Escher! The other two figures remain cloaked and hunched, adding an air of mystery to the situation.

Meanwhile, Dawn and Kasimir successfully finish transcribing the ritual and request something to bind their notes. Exethanter hints that Alshudar had informed him about the location of the binding materials. Perplexed, Dawn wonders how Alshudar could have seen the rope. She converses with Alshudar, who reveals that Exethanter's assistance enabled him to regain his sight after a long time. Alshudar expresses joy and extends an invitation for Dawn to return with more friends in the future. His happiness is palpable, providing a moment of solace amidst the darkness of their current situation.

Dawn bids farewell to Exethanter and Alshudar, preparing to leave the room with Kasimir. They descend the stairs and come across Jakub's deteriorating body, ravaged by the dark powers he had made deals with. Worms attempt to consume him, but disintegrate upon contact. Dawn, determined, begins dragging what remains of Jakub towards the exit.

As they make their way through the temple's lower levels, Dawn notices a charred corpse in the central area. Her attention is drawn to a gaunt, wiry man with black hair, frantically rummaging through the burnt remains. This individual, who seems to have aged prematurely due to stress and time, appears to have been deprived of sunlight for years.

Dawn approaches the man, perplexed by his behavior, and he questions her existence while desperately seeking food. She explains her intention to leave the Amber Temple and offers him sustenance. Curious, she inquires if he has made any deals with dark powers, to which he responds negatively, claiming to have been trapped in the temple for an extended period. Dawn suggests he accompanies her and Kasimir in their departure, casting Calm Emotions to soothe his distress.

The man asks for her name, and Dawn introduces herself as Sister D, cautioning against sharing her full name. He introduces himself as V, and they set off together. Kasimir questions V about any possessions not freely obtained, and V mentions a staff of frost he acquired, seemingly unwilling to part with it.

They proceed, with V leading the way. Just as V is about to exit with the staff, a telepathic message resounds, declaring, "It's yours to take, my dear baronet." V expresses gratitude for the staff and hospitality, acknowledging the message and mentioning to give regards to Stella.

Meanwhile, Harsan and Aastrid find themselves listening to Escher's ceaseless monologue. They devise a plan to eliminate him while he is engrossed in his self-aggrandizing speech. After enduring approximately 45 minutes of his ramblings, Astrid throws a rock to divert his attention, luring him towards the cave. As the cloaked figures draw closer, Harsan and Astrid suffer automatic necrotic damage.

Harsan unleashes a blinding smite. Harsan's invisibility fades. Escher, disadvantaged by his blindness, can only attack with difficulty. Aastrid employs Hold Vampires, but it fails. Using her bonus action, she casts sickening radiance, inflicting significant damage. Escher, still blind, transforms into a bat and attempts to flee using echolocation. The two cloaked Bodaks employ their withering gaze on Harsan, but he withstands their assault. A fire ignites within Harsan's chest as he moves into Escher's line of sight, commanding him to halt. However, his command has no effect on the undead. Aastrid, seizing the opportunity, moves forward, unleashing Chaos Bolt. The forceful impact weakens Escher, who is barely clinging to life. And then, Astrid casts sunlight. Escher disintegrates entirely. The Bodaks redirect their gaze towards Ember. Harsan senses the sword hilt radiating with fire once more. Ember falls, but Harsan manages to lay a healing hand on Aastrid. He attacks one of the Bodaks with his spiritual weapon, mirroring Fey's mace. Aastrid, using her sickening radiance one final time, eradicates the remaining creatures.

Aastrid and Harsan take a well-deserved long rest before making their way back outside the Amber Temple. They reunite with the other three companions. V appears curious and unaffected by the recent events. Aastrid, elated by Escher's demise, is relieved to see Dawn emerging from the temple but puzzled by Nix's absence. She pays little attention to the new arrival. Dawn experiences a mix of emotions, carrying a heavy heart due to the loss of Nix and Alshidar. However, she finds solace in leaving Alshidar with Exethanter and possesses a sense of nobility. She is also pleased to have successfully transcribed the ritual. Uncertainty surrounds her impression of V.

Harsan, filled with pride, is impressed with himself and Aastrid. He has conquered the very threat that once plagued and defeated him. He feels a stronger connection with Aastrid and wonders why Nix is not with Dawn and Kasimir. He senses that the sword hilt is urging him to find something. Kasimir, relieved to be free from the Amber Temple, contemplates the wealth of information he has acquired about his sister and her relationship with Strahd. As hope emerges for resolving the centuries-long problem of Strahd, he ponders whether the newfound light at the end of the tunnel should influence his perspective.

## Session Forty: Answered Prayers

The mountain ambiance sets the scene as "V" evades direct answers, his demeanor mysterious and unpredictable. Conversing with Dawn, they delve into their origins and how they arrived at the Amber Temple. Dawn reveals her mission and the necessity of finding a way to defeat Strahd. "V" voices his skepticism towards religion, advocating for personal empowerment instead. Spotting Harsan and Aastrid nearby, they make their way towards them.

"V" inquires about Dawn's intentions with Jakub's body, to which she explains his inability to resist the call of the dark powers. She plans to return it to the Abbot in Krezk. "V" continues his anti-religion monologue while the atmosphere intensifies.

Suddenly, the Roc appears!

Harsan takes cover in the snow, and "V" asks Dawn and Kasimir if they trust him. They respond cautiously, having just met him. "V" then turns invisible and begins to make his way away from the group. Kasimir follows suit, instructing Dawn to hide in the snow or become invisible. Aastrid buries herself in the snow and casts hypnotic pattern, captivating the Roc.

Dawn swiftly runs 30 feet away from the Roc and buries herself in the snow. The Roc, under the influence of the hypnotic pattern, ceases its flight and plummets, crashing into the frozen lake. The area surrounding the ice spire collapses inward. Dawn releases Jakub's body, teetering on the edge of the lake.

Taking charge, "V" employs the staff of frost and casts cone of cold, freezing the Roc into the lake. He grabs the body bag, maneuvering despite its weight. Kasimir reinforces "V's" spell with an Ice Storm, further securing the Roc's frozen state. He then joins Aastrid, running closer to her.

Dawn dashes away, seeking refuge near Harsan and Aastrid. Suddenly, the Roc explosively emerges from under the ice and soars into the air. Harsan emerges from the snow and covers Dawn under its protective blanket. Astrid targets the Roc with a barrage of magic missiles. Harsan returns to his snowy hideout.

"V" relinquishes his invisibility and casts Enlarge Reduce on the body bag, allowing him to carry it more easily as he runs. Aastrid and Dawn also flee from the scene. The Roc swoops down, launching an attack against "V." In a daring move, Harsan rushes back to rescue "V."

"V" employs a dimension door to escape the Roc's grasp but leaves Harsan behind. The Roc descends once more, targeting Harsan. With Jakub's body in hand, it snatches him and flies away. Harsan, fueled by determination, grapples "V" upon his return. Together with Astrid, they interrogate "V" and discover his true identity as Victor Vallakovich, the son of the baron of Vallaki. Seeking safety during the revolution in Vallaki, he inadvertently found himself in Mt. Ghakis and sought refuge within the temple. Dawn and Kasimir catch up, and the group sets off towards the cave.

Aastrid and Harsan discuss their successful encounter with Escher and his minions. Aastrid reveals Strahd's plans to wed Ireena, information she overheard from Escher. She suggests that the party travels to Barovia.

Dawn recalls how the Abbot presented a previous version of Vasilka to Strahd, returning with a despondent expression. Additionally, she remembers the Abbot making her try on clothes intended for Vasilka.

Harsan proposes that Aastrid communicates with Ireena using Sending. Aastrid inquires about the marriage and Ireena's whereabouts. Ireena reveals that Strahd is threatening her and implores the party to find Ismark. Determined, the group decides to venture to Berez in search of him.

We regroup and exchange stories of our experiences at the Amber Temple before departing. Kasimir questions Victor about his feelings toward Strahd, but Victor doesn't appear overly worried. Aastrid recalls the guards in Krezk mentioning bounty hunters pursuing Victor, likely from the Wachter family in Vallaki.

Searching for a quick way down the mountain, we ask Victor how he arrived here since he seems confused about some of our encounters. Victor explains that he stumbled upon a glowing circle and found himself outside the mountain. Aastrid, recognizing his amateurish attempts at teleportation, deduces that in his panic, Victor must have accidentally stepped through the circle.

The mention of the name Stella triggers panic and grief in Victor. Dawn inquires if the name holds any significance for him, to which Victor reveals that Stella was once meant to be his future wife, but their relationship didn't work out. Harsan questions why Victor believes Stella went mad, but suspicions linger among the group as we must keep moving.

We opt for a different descent route than the one we ascended. Along the way, we encounter the irritable goat, Sangzor. He initiates a rockslide, and everyone manages to evade the danger except for Aastrid, who rolls a critical failure. Sister Dawn selflessly takes the full impact of the rocks, while Aastrid begins to fall. Harsan swiftly grabs Aastrid, but Dawn struggles to hold on. Victor attempts to use his mage hand to divert the falling rocks but fails. Kasimir casts Fly on Dawn to prevent her from plummeting. In the midst of chaos, Aastrid calls upon Jamie and hears the haunting voice of Strahd. He taunts her, claiming that this is not where she is destined to die, and questions who she believes answers prayers in Barovia.

Thankfully, everyone survives the treacherous ordeal and reaches the base of the mountain.

- Harsan, relieved to have narrowly averted losing Aastrid, feels a sense of urgency to fulfill our objectives in defeating Strahd.

- Kasimir, deeply affected by the events within and after the Amber Temple, appears distressed and lost in thought.

- Victor, grateful to be out of the Amber Temple, remains uncertain of the group's objectives. Despite their wariness towards him, he finds solace in their company rather than being alone.

- Dawn, concerned and slightly injured, worries for the well-being of the group. She contemplates seeking counsel from the Abbot and feels unsettled by the possibility of encountering Baba Lysaga, whom she hasn't seen since childhood.

- Aastrid, shaken by her close brush with death, also feels unease upon hearing Strahd's voice once more. She contemplates advising Dawn to cease her prayers, hoping to avoid attracting Strahd's attention.

## Memorable Quotes

**Godfrey:** I love you....

* **Ray:** We have a friend who's a druid, not of the old way. More of a new wave druid, if you will.
* **Saveed:** I... would, but I'm not sure what that means.

* **Nix:** I think I met your Zilveren. He said he was searching for his daughter?
* **Fey:** Yep, that's Zilveren.

**Godfrey:** With countless lives lived, the age and wisdom on these bones does not grant greater insight into what will happen.

**Fey:** I do not know what exactly goes on in Vladamir's mind, but I'm sure his love for you has not really diminished. I hope that lighting the beacon and restoring these bones will restore him to you.

**Ray:** Saveed looks like he's a little... I don't know how to say this, so I'm just gonna whisper... a bit pathetic. He looks like he's about to die if we leave him literally anywhere.

* **Fey:** I'm not that great at dragon anatomy.
* **Ray:** Didn't you have a dragon friend?
* **Fey:** Yes, but I never looked INSIDE him!

**Inscription on a tombstone:** Here lies Kavan the Bloodsinger. May his spirit guide us through the trials of the Ladies Three.

**Ray:** Saveed, want to go to Yester Hill with us?

**Saveed:** I will certainly die. I have no desire to fight with you.

* **Fey:** Davian! Evil druids heading toward Krezk! Look out for dangerous plants! Something BIG is coming!
* **Davian:** We know. Preparing. A lot of things happening. Thank you for your help. Birds of a feather.

* **Jasper:** Boss!
* **Ember:** That's me, I'm boss.

**Strahd:** Tell me, Raynard, is the reason that you run away from everything... is it that you trust that everything will work out with the rest of them? Or that you simply don't care enough about what happens to them?

**Strahd:** What do you think about Feyalin's book? She shouldn't have it anymore, should she?

* **Jasper:** Can I have cake when I'm done, boss?
* **Ember:** Yeah, I'll make you cake.
* **Jasper:** Good, I love cake.

**Jasper:** Bada bada ba da da da, Jasper! Jasper and The Boss song!

* **Ember:** Don't touch the mists... but get as close as you can.
* **Jasper:** I like it. Living on the edge!

**Jasper:** I hear Tatiana, Sergei, Strahd, Simon, Gabriel... a lot of voices here, boss. I don't know if they're souls or spirits. Maybe these are your past lives, boss...

**Fey:** I don't think we'll have the element of surprise anymore. If we want to get up the hill, we have to go, NOW.

* **Fey:** I think the wooden effigy there is part of the ritual. You're good at lighting things on f--
* **Nix:** Do you want me to light it on fire?
* **Ember:** Hey! Same brain wave!
* **Fey:** Light that bitch on fire!

**Ray:** I don't know why you're attacking me! I'm a friend of Strahd's!

* **Druid:** You will join the other faithless very soon.
* **Ray:** Can I really be faithless if I never had any faith?

* **Ember:** Don't let me down!
* **Jasper:** When have I ever! rolls a natural 20 What did I FUCKING say?

**Jasper:** I'm a hero.

**Fey:** Betray me! You have to betray me! Pretend to stab me! Go with them and save Ray! You’ve got this, Ember. I believe in you.

**Ember:** I am not faithless.

* **Ember:** What do you plan to do with this faithless?
* **Druid:** Him? He will be fertilizer.

**Druid:** The chosen. She was beautiful. Words dripped like honey from her mouth. She was elegant.

* **Ember:** How far have you gotten into the sacrifice process?
* **Druid**: First, we attacked those faithless at the winery. Then we plan to destroy that settlement of Krezk.

* **Ember:** WHERE?? Did you NOT kill all of them??
* **Druid:** A THOUSAND APOLOGIES, MISTRESS OF THE SHADOWS!
* **Ember:** How DARE you put me in danger like that!!!

**Nix:** Oh dear earth, fire, wind, and water, what the HELL am I watching?! What in the green earth is THAT??

**Ray:** Aw fuck! That fucking vampire piece of shit! I can't believe it... I'd hoped to find something in life that would do good, and one of the last things I did in life is take what they need to defeat the devil.

* **Corpse Star:** Listen, child of man. Hear us. There is still much good that you must do. Strike back against the devil, the tool of the vampire. We will grant you that power.
* **Ray:** Who are you?
* **Corpse Star:** We are the Corpse Star.
* **Ray:** That's gonna be a hard no from me. When you come back from death, all you do is spend the rest of your life trying to cheat it. And eventually, you're gonna lose that game. I... I am ready to rest.
* **Corpse:** We did not *ask.*

* **Ember:** When did I steal anything from you like that? I don't need anything that you have...
* **Ray:** Ember, I'm DONE talking over you! This gem belongs to the Martikovs. The land gave it to them, and it's not up to us to take it from them!

**Ray:** You don't understand, I shouldn't be here. I shouldn't be alive. I told the Corpse Star No!

**Ray**: You don't ever have to tell us the whole truth about who you are. I judge others by their actions. You're at your best when you trust others to help you out. Do more of that. Tell Strahd it was me.

**Vision of Madam Eva:** With this sacrifice, I give unto you my boon. With its gift, I ask three things. Free my sisters, destroy the usurper, cleanse this land of shadows.

**Nix:** I'm so sorry you had to see that.

* **Fey:** Would you mind if I wielded you?
* **Alshudar:** Of COURSE! Tell me, what do you look like?
* **Fey:** Well... I used to be kind of pretty, but now I'm just a walking skeleton...
* **Alshudar:** Oh, we'll get some meat on those bones soon enough! The training begins now!

* **Nix:** He’s gone. Ray is gone.
* **Fey:** Why? Why did you go? Why did you leave us?
* **Corpse Star:** We offered him everything.
* **Fey:** You offered him what you offered me?
* **Corpse Star:** He was not willing.
* **Fey:** He was weak.

* **Alshudar:** I’m sorry to hear it. Still, books are a waste of time.
* **Ember:** You find the book?

* **Strahd:** What did you sacrifice?
* **Ember:** I didn’t sacrifice anything.
* **Strahd:** Who was it?
* **Ember:** Ray.
* **Strahd:** He’s an interesting man.
* **Ember:** A little less interesting when he’s stealing things from us.
* **Strahd:** Isn’t that what rogues do?

* **Strahd:** Ember, not everything that I do is about you and your friends. You and all the rest come here, following the words of Madame Eva, or whoever it is. What are you going to do now, Ember?
* **Ember:** I am going to go back to my party.
* **Strahd:** Very well. It’s a shame. I suppose I’m going to have to wait for another group that will not be swayed by the rituals and tribal calls of the evil gods.

* **Strahd:** I expected to see a contest of wills. I am unsurprised that your group proved the better.
* **Ember:** A lot of us are dead, though.
* **Strahd:** Yes, a lot of you are...because you aren't a team. I don’t know what you’re still engaging in this make-believe. I do like you, Ember, I do think we have a lot to offer each other. But who you're following? Whatever is puppeting Feyalin right now? It just can’t work.
* **Ember:** So I should just steal off into the night?
* **Strahd:** If you wanted to, we can leave now. If your loyalty is to Fey, look at her. She is long gone. If your loyalty is to Nix, could have fooled me.
* **Ember:** My loyalty is to Aastrid.

* **Strahd:** I have been very patient.
* **Ember:** I think I can’t trust someone who steals from me.
* **Strahd:** Who are you talking about?
* **Ember:** I need that book back before I can work with you.

* **Ember**: LIAR.
* **Strahd:** It seems like I’ll have to be far less patient with your next incarnation.

**Strahd:** Zhudun! I see what you thought you were doing. You thought you could go into my past! To change things. I’m going to destroy this puppet!!

* **Strahd:** THIS is who you choose to ally yourself with. Every well, Ember. VERY WELL.
* **Fey:** You’re angry, but it doesn’t seem to be with me!

**Strahd:** Hit harder next time.

* **Corpse Star:** We have already won. A piece of us is inside his past. Will you come with us to ensure that Strahd suffers?
* **Fey**: It will be done. Strahd will suffer for his crimes.

* **Ember:** You did it! You took it all! What more do you want?!
* **Strahd:** Thank you, Ember. You’ve given me something to look forward to. I hope that we’ll be real friends in your next life. But for now, go ahead, play the hero. See what happens. I haven't done this in 200 years or so. Enjoy. Are you going to take this one?
* **Ember:** Yes, I’m taking Nix.
* **Strahd:** Very well, she is yours. I’ll see you soon.

* **Jakub:** If you both will follow me, we must get to a safer place.
* **Ember:** UM NO.

* **Nix:** Where’s Fey?
* **Ember:** Ember gestures at charred bones.
* **Nix:** Ashes to ashes. See you in the next life.

* **Jakub:** Now you have a safe space to rest.
* **Nix:** Who the HELL are you?
* **Jakub:** My fine lady, my name is Jakub Davtona.
* **Ember:** See if you ever call me a fine lady again.

* **Ember:** We actually have a place to be, so...
* **Jakub:** Ah, are you taking the gem over to the Martikovs over in Krezk?
* **Ember**: WHO THE FUCK ARE YOU?

**Jakub:** In my defense, I did try to get here when I realized he was coming over to beat the living shit out of you.

**Jakub:** You have far more friends in this land than you might think. Birds of a feather flock together.

**Corpse Star:** The mission waits. Let us continue. Chapter threeee.

* **Strahd:** Welcome Sergei von Seravich, awakened son of the Morning Lord and Castle Ravenloft!
* **Sergei:** It is good to have you, brother! We must celebrate!

* **Strahd:** What was first on the agenda?
* **Fey:** A small private tea time to catch up with your brother before all the drabble and bureaucracy get hold of him.

**Alshudar:** So what was your name? Where are we going? Are we heading toward doing something good?

* **Nix:** Yeah, we’ve lost more than one person today. We should at LEAST give Ray a proper Pyre.
* **Ember:** Fine....but then we are LEAVING.

* **Nix:** Ray and Fey are dead...
* **Ember:** See, this is why I don’t like having friends. Let's go burn Ray’s body.
* **Nix:** He’s tried to burn himself so many times already, let’s do it properly this time.

* **Ember:** I agree with the shield. We should go to Krezek.
* **Alshudar**: I am Alshudar Belstrom of the Shield of Wings.

**Ember:** Well, give him our warmest regards.

**Nix:** Is that a pun 'cause we’re about to burn his body?

* **Fey:** An excellent dance, my friend!
* **Sergei:** Yes! The Morning Lord shines down upon us both!

* **Fey:** That was very impressive... Of your little brother.
* **Strahd:** I DON’T NEED YOUR PITY!

**Strahd:** He was handsome and he was youthful. I hated him for both.

* **Ray, a Raven:** Holy shit! Where the fuck were you? I thought I was alone here!
* **Jakub:** Do you have a name?
* **Ray, a Raven:** Well, in life, my friends called me Ray.
* **Jakub**: I don’t know if you remember having a bit of a steep curb when you joined this group--
* **Ray, a Raven**: Ah, you’re talking about Ember.

* **Nix:** Where to now?
* **Ember:** I’m going to Krezk.
* **Nix:** Mind if I come along?
* **Ember:** My minding has never stopped anyone before.

* **Ember:** I would rather rest with an angry bear.
* **Nix**: Well, I can’t wild shape right now...

**Ember:** Kay, I think we should leave...

* **Nix:** You're not looking too good, Ember. We may have to stop with the weirdo.
* **Ember:** I don't feel like I want to be locked in a bubble with a stranger who's been following us.

**Ember:** No, Nix, I'm not gonna leave you behind.

* **Jakub:** Hello Nix! Wonderful to see you!
* **Nix:** Okay, I have questions, you have answers.
* **Jakub:** Yes! I also have a Raven now. Say hello to Ray!

* **Nix:** Dude's got a bird now. He says it's Ray.
* **Jasper:** A bird?! Do we have food?

* **Nix:** You can mind link with me as I speak to the raven if you want.
* **Ember:** Oh, I can DO that now cause Fey's DEAD!

* **Ember:** Jasper, bite it.
* **Jasper:** Dinner to go!

* **Jasper:** Dear chicken wing, give me some food!
* **Ray:** I've never been able to understand this fucking cat. If I had to choose who I had my last words with, it certainly wouldn't have been Ember.
* **Ember:** Are you trapped in the body of a tiny bird that my cat can kill now? That seems like karmic justice.
* **Ray:** They have wine in the afterlife, did you know that?
* **Ember:** I KNOW, I've been there.
* **Ray:** By the way, this guy seems legit.
* **Ember:** ...Jakub, how did you steal Ray's soul?
* **Jakub**: I would say that I found his soul.
* **Ember:** Found it and took it and put it in a bird!
* **Ray:** To be clear, I just wanna say I consented to this. Becoming a bird was not forced upon me.

**Jakub:** I'm part of a secret organization called the Keepers of the Feather. Are either of you familiar with that organization?... Of COURSE not, it's a SECRET organization.

**Jakub:** We asked the raven to repeat the sound that it heard the wagon make, and it just went BWWOOOOOOOOOOWWW!!!

S**trahd**: Then all my disparaging thoughts fell away like dead leaves. I knew she was the one I'd been waiting for since I learned of mother's death.

**Fey**: My dear lady Tatiyana, I'd love to hear more about your family, wouldn't we Lady Patrina?

* **Fey:** I'd be delighted to show you around the gardens at my abode in the morning, but would there be anyone left at home to milk the cows?
* **Strahd**: Sergei will milk the cows...

**Fey**: Tatyana, I would be happy to take you home.

**Fey:** You should work closely with Lady Tatyana in the building of the new church! I think that there would be none better suited than Master Sergei to be its first priest!

**Strahd:** So Tatyana, you were discovered by my brother?

**Strahd:** It was as if the sun that shone so brightly upon me... Its full glory shone upon him and him alone.

**Strahd:** One would think the ritual for casting a love spell, but my books were bereft of such a thing. I was NOT. GOING. TO. LOSE. HER.

**Strahd:** GET OUT! GET OUT NOW! Rahadin, follow her and KILL her. I want her as an example.

**Jasper:** BARDS are perfect! I like this guy now!

* **Jasper:** You think he's Jamie?
* **Ember:** He doesn't LOOK like Jamie.
* **Jasper: T**hen he's NOT Jamie. That was, like, one of the top three things about Jamie.
* **Alshudar:** WHO'S Jamie?!
* **Ember:** Is there a way to turn this shield off?
* **Alshudar**: I... have a consciousness.

* **Nix:** Chief.
* **Kavan**: Child of the forest. What you have done, I am eternally grateful for. Bloodsinger is of old, hear me now.
* **Nix**: We've restored two of the Rozana...
* **Kavan:** Bloodsinger hungers for those who are the faithless.
* **Nix:** With your blessing, I will use the spear to restore the land to what it once was. Before the inverter. Before the shadow.

* **Kavan:** Alshudar Belstrom, have you found him?
* **Alshudar:** OH HEY, YOU KNOW MY NAME. WHAT'S GOING ON??

* **Jakub:** Ember, I know you're extremely wise, but that is a shield.
* **Ember:** Jakub, I know that you're extremely dumb, but this is Alshidar.
* **Jakub:** I have so many questions.
* **Alshudar:** I HAVE SO MANY ANSWERS!

**Stribolg:** There is no more noble calling than to serve the Ladies Three... as a raven!

**Ember**: If I stop touching the shield, will I stop hearing it talk?

* **Ember:** Zilveren's dead...
* **Nix:** I know Zilveren's dead, I ran into his ghost.
* **Ember:** Mhmmm...
* **Nix:** That happens!

**Fey:** You are not worthy of her. Sergei is. You murdered a woman simply for making the mistake of being in your way. Tatyana is kind, lovely, and gentle. Why would she want someone like you?

* **Corpse Star:** My most helpful servant.
* **Fey:** How am I doing?
* **Corpse Star:** The tool of the vampire is weak. Together we will make him ours.
* **Fey**: I will make him come with us!
* **Corpse Star:** You have been selected out of all of us. You cannot fail. The vampire cannot win.

**Strahd:** I began dealing with something far beyond my dealings with magic. I needed no wise teacher to tell me it was deadly.

* **Sergei:** We have something to tell you! We'd like to announce our engagement! We hope to wed in one moon's time. And with your permission, we'd like to do it here. In the castle's chapel.
* **Strahd:** As a devout follower of Lathander, you know I cannot condone you to have a wedding that would take you from the path of the priesthood.
* **Tatiyana:** The Morning Lord shines on our partnership.
* **Fey:** The Morning Lord shines upon them... and you... You look like a corpse.

**Strahd:** Tatyana, I promise you this forever.

* **Fey:** Come with us...
* **Strahd:** Where?
* **Fey:** Somewhere you won't feel so tortured anymore. He can help you.

**Vampyr:** You cannot find what you seek in a book. Come to me!

* **Corpse Star:** Have we chosen the wrong servant?
* **Fey**: No, he will come with us whether he likes it or not!

**Exethanter:** After all, it appears that my fears are correct...

**Exethanter:** I am Exethanter. I am your lore keeper.

* **Exethanter:** You're not a dark power, are you?
* **Fey:** Of course not. I do what's right and good. I'm one of the good guys.
* **Exethanter:** That and a nickel...

**Strahd:** You wanted death? Well, take me and be damned!

**Vampyr:** I've come on your behalf. You've fed me well, and you are due your reward. Lay your hand on my tomb, and I shall remove the rival from your path, and you shall age not one day more.

**Corpse Star:** No, we have worked, we have toiled. Vampyr cannot take him!

**Strahd:** There it was. The party. The bargaining. The trade. What did they want from me? What could they possibly want from me?

* **Corpse Star:** You are a failure! Sniveling, mewling puppet of Lathander! Your light has been extinguished! You have failed at your only purpose! What is there possibly left for you to accomplish?
* **Fey**: Nothing... There is nothing left of me.

**Ember:** I'm from here... We should start with where I am from.

**Jakub:** I promise you, the next song I learn will be silence.

* **Jakub:** Hey, Ember! Look at this!
* **Ember:** You know Eldritch Blast, too?
* **Jakub:** Yes, I do! I learned it from you!

**Jakub:** You’ve got this, buddy! \*wink\*

**Jakub:** Vampire spawn? More like Vampire PAWN!

* **Nix**: Ember... I am SO sorry.
* **Ember**: Thanks for killing my parents, guys.
* **Nix:** Ember... what do you wanna do with... your parents?
* **Ember:** IDK, burn them...
* **Nix:** You wanna conduct a ceremony?
* **Ember:** Uh, yeeeeaaah. Would you guys mind taking care of that for me? I don't think I can watch...

**Strahd:** I wish you had someone like Tatiyana... Oh, but I will...

**Tatyana:** In this place of the Morning Lord, he has revealed to me the true sunlight. The light that is Tatyana. I know that in this life and the next, we will live together. We will live under the glow of the sun, and we will live in love forever.

**Tatyana:** My life has been such a whirlwind, and to be here with all of you. It's a blessing! But to be standing in front of this man here brings me the greatest joy of all. Forever and always.

**Many voices:** If you did it now, would she even know...

**Guard:** Stand down or die!

* **Tatyana:** You're a monster.
* **Strahd:** EVERYTHING I HAVE DONE HAS BEEN FOR US... come here, Tatyana!

**Strahd:** The blackness returned, covering me, covering the world, never to lift. It weighed upon me heavier than the mountain smothering me to dust. But then I looked up to those dead men. I'd send them wailing.

* **Jakub:** Who were these people to you?
* **Ember:** They were my parents.
* **Jakub:** Were they truly YOUR parents?
* **Ember:** Whose else would they be?
* **Jakub:** Ember, I've lost a parent, and it strikes me as odd that you wouldn't want to say goodbye to them.
* **Ember:** THOSE were not my parents. THOSE were vampires. Nothing of my parents were left inside them. MY parents were gone before we got here. What do you want from me?
* **Jakub:** What?
* **Nix:** Who do you think did this?
* **Ember:** No matter who it was... it was Strahd...

* **Alshudar:** Yeah, what's happening out there?
* **Nix:** Well, Ember's parents turned into vampire spawn.
* **Alshudar:** You know, one time I thought all my friends were dead... but it turned out it was just a trick!

**Alshudar:** Some of them are Rahadin in disguise, but most of them are just good people trying to do their best! And if you give them something to believe in, then they'll believe it!

**Alshudar:** YOU SHOULD PUT UP FORTIFICATIONS RIGHT NOW!

**Escher:** Listen, he has given me a very important mission that he could have given to FiSk or AnaYsTrAsya... but he gave it to me. And if you try to hit me, I'm gonna turn into a bunch of bats or something.

Nix: WE GOT COMPANY!

**Escher:** Right, now that we're friends, you're gonna change back into yourself, tell us we can come in, and dismiss your bears!

* **Ember:** This is MY house and you CAN'T come in.
* **Esher:** Awwww, why you gotta be that way?
* **Ember**: I don't like company!
* **Eshe**r: But there's like two bears, and all!
* **Ember:** Those are MY bears!
* **Escher:** I think I should become bats then... alright!

**Escher:** What I'm gonna do is tell Lord Strahd that you can handle skeletons every time, we're gonna come back bigger and better every time. And the best part is I get to think of it! Oh, and I'm supposed to tell Ember if ya ever change your mind, it's all good, innit?

**Alshudar:** YES! It feels like we're winning! THE SHIELD OF WINGS!

**Vasili:** Silver dagger, cut yourself, prove it!

* **Davian:** Hello there Jakub, my boy. Was it a success?
* **Jakub:** Well, when I arrived it seems as though the skeleton, Feyalin, was killed. Ray was also killed, but look at this! This Raven is actually the soul of Raynard!

**Davian**: Ember has the gem...? I dunno what it's gonna take for Ember to give up something...

**Rayven:** Yeah! I like this guy!

**Rayven:** They need to figure out what it is they want to do. If they're truly committed to defeating Strahd or be bystanders.

**Davian**: People don't tick when they tell you what they should do or how they should feel.

* **Jakub:** Alright buddy, this is your first mission on your own. Think you can handle it?
* **Rayven:** Of course I can! I've done a lot of things, I've killed a hag, it'll be a walk in the park, a FLY in the park!

* **Nix:** Where do you think Jakub went?
* **Ember:** Oh I have no fucking idea where that fucking guy went, he seems to come and go as he pleases.

* **Ember:** Shield!
* **Alshudar:** I am Alshudar Belstrom of the Shield of Wings.
* **Ember:** Can you protect us?
* **Alshudar: I** CAN! I'm a shield.
* **Ember:** Do you have magic?

* **Nix:** Bears can run faster than us, so do you wanna 'bear' with me and go for a ride?
* **Ember:** ...Not anymore.

**Ember:** SURE FEELS GOOD TO BE \*checks notes\* HOME!

* **Nix:** Hey thanks for leaving us, asshole! You left us and we got attacked by a bunch of skeletons. Where were YOU?!
* **Jakub:** I was safe and sound here in Krezk.

* **Ember:** Of COURSE we're trying to survive. I got our asses kicked, we've lost our friends!
* **Rayven:** You haven't lost me!

* **Nix:** It's a matter of will, yes, but it's also a matter of hope. The question is where are your priorities?
* **Jakub:** My priorities are maintaining the Keepers of the Feathers and lifting the curse over Strahd.

**Abbot:** Ember Willowblaze! As I live and breathe! You've come into town again! Your family fares well?

* **Ember:** Yes! They're good...
* **Abbot:** Do you still play chess?
* **Ember:** Yes!
* **Abbot:** Would you care for a game?

**Alshudar:** I wanna report! No skeletons came tonight!

* **Jasper:** BOSS, IS THERE DANGER?!
* **Ember**: No... no danger.

* **Ember:** A pretty man showed up and invited me to play chess with him.
* **Jasper:** Hmmmm, we do like pretty men.
* **Ember:** I knoooow!
* **Jasper:** But do we like chess?

* **Jasper:** Really suspicious, red flags all around, we don't trust this at ALL, right?
* **Ember:** We'll see.
* **Jasper:** WHAT DO YOU MEAN WE'LL SEE?

* **Ember:** It's so nice to see you again! It's so nice!
* **Clovin:** It's been so long! You gonna give old Clovin a hug!
* **Ember:** ...yeaahhs...
* **Clovin**: Clovin does the hug!

* **Abbot:** Ember, I don't know the best way to say this... but I fear that you have been afflicted...
* **Ember**: What?
* **Jasper**: I think we should leave right now!
* **Abbot:** Well... it is... one moment. \*VOMITS\*

**Abbot:** I know it's hard for you to lie as well... I'm not entirely sure where to begin. Were you sent here?

* **Abbot:** It doesn't make sense. This doesn't make sense. You're telling me the truth, of course you are...
* **Ember:** What is upstairs?
* **Abbot:** We only need one per domain... and we each need to fix our own domains. This is a mistake. We only need one of us here.
* **Ember**: One of us?
* **Abbot:** From the upper planes.
* **Ember:** For WHAT?
* **Abbot:** These are the domains of dread. There's a dark lord at the center of them maintaining powers. The dark lord is gifted us, and if we redeem the dark lord, then everything will work out in the end! I am going to give him the true love that he desires. I just don't know why... you radiate SO much celestial energy!

**Abbot**: I'm making him a better Tatyana!

* **Abbot:** The only way to break this curse from a love that is improper, a love that is not reciprocated, is to connect him to one that will! Vasilika is that one! I know she is not perfect, but we're getting there!
* **Jasper:** BOSS, we should GO.

* **Jasper:** Boss, I don't know what I'm supposed to do right now.
* **Ember:** You're supposed to be quiet, Jasper.
* **Jasper:** Ember, I'm not talking to you, I'm talking to THE BOSS.

**Nix:** Jakub! What is chess and why would someone want to play with Ember?

**Mongrel:** Alms for the poor. Alms to help the lord of light.

* **Ember:** The WHAT?
* **Jasper:** Oh, what did I say?
* **Ember:** THe BOSS, Jasper.
* **Jasper:** What? You're the boss, boss!
* **Ember:** I don't believe you!,
* **Jasper:** What? I AM YOU!

**Jamie:** You are no closer to fighting it out than you were 15 lives ago. You're useless.

**Jasper**: I dunno, we've just been here so long! And I just think whatever's keeping here, we just need to listen to it!

**Jasper:** This is the time it's works out! And it's NOT gonna work out with this curveball of a guy! How are we supposed to get answers from him, right?

**"Jamie":** Hello Ember! It's so good to see you! We've been waiting for you. You have a choice to make. All you have to say is no and walk away. And you can continue going on your merry way with your friends, with Jasper. If you need more convincing, we could find Jamie where he is so easily. What do you say?

**Jasper:** Please boss, I don't want to go back to them!

* **Abbot:** We are currently on a demiplane, a place where truly horrid individuals are preyed on by other darker forces. Some of us from Celestia are sent to help alleviate the situation, try and redeem them, purify the land.
* **Abbot**: I could sever your connection to this thing... I could...
* **Ember:** What would happen to me?
* **Ember**: I don't know if you would stay who you are. There are so many soul husks regressed inside of you now. I know you have a stronger will than this parasite inside of you.

* **Abbot:** I can raise the dead.
* **Ember:** You have revivify?
* **Abbot:** No, I can raise the dead...

**Ember:** I can't be here and be evil.

**Abbot:** Yes! Yes, that's the point!

**Ember:** I'm not evil, am I... am I evil?

* **Jasper:** Boss! No, we're never gonna see each other again! Boss! BOSS!
* **"Jamie's Voice":** My love, we're going to be back together again, but not if you listen to this man!
* **The 15 souls inside Ember:** You're saying that we died for nothing?

* **Martikovs:** Hello there! You're Nix Vintaurae. We have some questions for you!
* **Nix:** Um, okay.

**Martikovs**: It's not a matter of belief; it's a matter of blessing.

* Martikovs: Why is it that when your friend became a skeleton, you seemed to have no problem with that?
* **Nix:** Full skeleton or half skeleton? What do you mean?
* **Martikovs: A**NY level of skeleton!

* **Davian:** Jakub, you're always talking about this dragon heist...
* **Jakov:** I think it would be a great time to sneak into the castle. There's a little dragon skull in there waiting to be taken,

* **Dawn:** I'm sorry, what was your name?
* **Aastrid:** Aastrid.
* **Dawn:** Aastrid. That's a beautiful name!

**Abbot:** A blessed day! There are good omens! There's a raven!

* **Abbot:** Friend! Would you like an apple?
* **Ray:** I'd like a hard cider. Got any ale?

**Aastrid:** Hello Ray.

**Ray:** Ah, that makes a lot of sense 'cause she was talking about traveling with Nix and Jakub, and there's probably not a lot of Nixs and Jakubs in town. Wow. Look who had a glow up!

**Ray:** You seem better? Mostly the same, but better? I'm not sure. This is bizarre. The Ember that I knew would have swiped me off her shoulder. Well, this is nice!

* **Alshudar:** Hey! What's going on?!
* **Nix:** Well, Ember ran off, and we're trying to find her.
* **Alshudar:** OH! Never split the party!

* **Alshudar:** THE MARTIKOVS!? HAVE THEM TOUCH ME!!!
* **Nix**: Uh, okay. Somebody wants to talk to you.
* **Alshudar:** I KNEW YOUR DAD, I KNEW YOUR MOM!

* **Aastrid:** I don't know what to tell you, I'm not from here.
* **Jakub:** Sorry, momentary lapse in judgment.
* **Dimitri:** Okay, you sure it wasn't a moment in you lapsing into a fucking idiot?

**Abbot:** I promise you, Jakub. I mean you no harm. I only have the best intentions for you, Aastrid, Nix, and for my beloved Abbey.

**Escher:** I guess you think you're safe 'cause Esher can't dispel magic, and you'd be right! I guess I gotta bring Fisk next time or something.

* **Escher:** You're undead, aren't you?"
* **Dawn: T**echnically, yes.

**Dawn:** WHY would you DO that? You said you were going to take your friends and be on your merry way! You can't just EAT people! I feel like that should be part of it. You can't come into the house if they say no, you can't EAT someone if they say no.

**Escher:** I can see, Nix, that you've made some new friends! One of them is VERY delicious!

**Nix:** I think Nix is feeling a bit wintry today.

**Dawn:** What bird? Holy shit! That bird has a cow!

* **Nix:** Aastrid, there are a few things you avoid in these mountains, a Roc is one of them.
* **Aastrid:** Well, that's a bird.
* **Ray:** Whoa, look at me, I'm a fucking Roc, eh?!

* **Jakub:** Would you like to be dismissed to a demiplane?
* **Ray**: Is it a GOOD demiplane?

* **Winter Wolf:** What is this?
* **Aastrid:** That's me!
* **Winter Wolf:** Hmmm. Winter witch.

**Winter Wolf:** We only want the child.

**Caldur**: What happened to mom. have to get back to the elder. we failed. there was a giant wolf with a stinger like a scorpion tail.

**Inscription on a stone in the mountains**: Beware the fury of the mountain's daughters. Follow the dragon's gaze and remain on the path.

**Jakub:** It was your last move, dickhead.

**Caldur:** I was out trying to do my best so that I can become a full-grown and help the village because... um. Part of our guard went out and never came back and I thought that I would step up and up try to help. I went ith my mum and my dad and they said that I could catch a winterwolf and learn the way of hunting.

* **Caldur:** Are you a knight of the silver dragon?
* **Jakub:** No, I'm just a man who can do a bit of magic.
* **Caldur: T**hey say the knights of the silver dragon they would come a long time ago and they would trade with us. But that was a long time ago. It's even elder than the village elder. Hahaha.

* **Caldur:** Can you do the magic that would bring ma and pa back, maybe?
* **Jakub:** I can't do that kind of magic. I know what it's like to lose a mum.

* **Dawn:** The mongrelfolk at the Abbey... do I call them anything other than that?
* **DM:** You call them by their names.

* **Villager:** Stranger, state your business.
* **Jakub:** We found this boy, Caldur. I was bringing him back to his home. My friends went a different way, and I fear they might...

**Villager:** There is much to be wary of: avalanches, goat attacks... and now these monstrous demons lurking here.

**Villager:** Nix is your companion? What god do you serve?

**Caldur:** I'm gonna be really, really strong, and then I can bring back my parents.

**Villager:** Those who are loyal to the Ladies 3 always have a place at our hearth.

**Nix:** May the seeker watch me, may the huntress protect me, may the weaver clothe me. May I enter?

* **Caldur:** This is elk. You can eat it. But you gotta chew it up really good first so you can eat it right.
* **Aastrid:** Wow, you are so full of information.

**Alshudar:** You are strong of will. You are a feather in the shield of wings. So if you do die in the Amber Temple, I hope you come back as a really cool cape!

**Alshudar:** One day, there will be a hero in our guild who will free this land from the Rat King!

**Caldur:** Excuse me, Miss Nix, there's something... and I don't know if I... Can we talk? Well, um, I think when the dusk elf came, you know, we're not supposed to eavesdrop or nothin', but I think that's what he was saying too. About death. That death shall have no dominion. I kinda heard him while he was sleeping. He was in a trance or something. He kept saying he was gonna fix it and he kept saying Patrina.

* **Caldur:** Is it because I didn't hope enough? I wasn't strong enough.
* **Jakub:** No, buddy. This world is cruel, and it will beat you down and tell you you're not worth it, but you have to persevere. Power is good, but it is not the end-all, be-all.
* **Caldur:** What happened to your parents?
* **Jakub:** That... that was a long time ago. They tried to stand up for what they believed in, and it didn't end well.
* **Caldur:** Right... so if parents aren't strong enough, then we just have to be.

**Ray:** I was talking to the other familiars in the familiar party. Did you know that when we go away, we just go to where all the other familiars go?

* **Dawn:** Oh, hi! You're new!
* **Ray:** I am! Are you a familiar?
* **Dawn:** I am!
* **Ray**: What's your name?
* **Dawn:** My name's Dawn!
* **Ray:** Oh, who's your master?
* **Dawn:** Zen Terraflow!
* **Ray**: I don't know the name.
* **Dawn: I** was also with Alshudar! It's nice to talk to someone. Zen hasn't called me in like 40 years.

* **Ray:** Well, I'll be back if I can't find anyone else.
* **Dawn:** Okay! We're best friends!

**Snow Maiden #5:** EEEK!

**Strahd:** There you are... Aastrid, did you think it was just that easy all along?

* **Yog:** You... appear healthy. When you find me, then I think we should talk.
* **Jakub:** Who are you?
* **Yog:** I am Yog.

**Yog:** When you get to the temple, say hi to Yog. Bottom floor,.

**Yog**: Without this, you're like a clean-shaven swine. But with it, you're sure to succeed. Ready for the long haul.

* **Nix:** Whyyyy are you so ill tempeeeered??
* **Sangzor the Savage**: Because assholes like you are mocking my speech impediment.
* **Nix:** I’m so sorry!
* **Sangzor the Savage:** Are you? Dipshit!
* **Nix:** Oh so you are just an asshole.
* **Sangzor the Savage:** Oh, Fuck you!
* **Nix:** Well fuck you FUCK YOU!
* **Sangzor the Savage:** I’ll hate you forever!
* **Alshudar:** Seems like a misunderstood but nice person.
* **Nix:** Person? He’s an asshole!
* **Alshudar:** Well, tomato-potato.

**Sangzor the Savage:** BeeeHHehHHEHHHHeeey.

**Sangzor the Savage:** All I ever wanted was to ram people off this mountain and maybe eat them sometimes. And here you all come and you know what? You know WHAT? I’m gonna kill ya.

**DM:** You have the eyes of an owl....and a lifetime ban from the zoo.

* **Dawn:** Are you sure you don’t need any help with this fur? I have some soap, I mean...
* **Aastrid:** I think this is a dark power thing. I think it’ll be fine. Fey was fine!
* **Nix:** Fine? Fey turned into a pile of BONES!
* **Aastrid:** After a WHILE!

* **Kasimir:** And you? Would you like to keep your sword out or would you like to fight to the death?
* **Aastrid:** I think I could take you.
* **Kasimir:** I think you could.

**Kasimir:** I used to make my home near Vallaki, I stayed with the Vistani there. But the leader has been acting strange and erratic. One of my kinsmen told me that adventurers started making their way to the pass to the Amber Temple.

**Voice of Caldur:** I’m just gonna have to go there one day and maybe I can get my parents back. Could ya help me? If I did that.

**Jasper’s voice:** You smell different. Who’s been with you? Who’s had their tentacles all over you?

* **Kasimir:** I don’t mean to pry, and it seems as though you don't want to talk about this too in-depth with your friends. But have you been to the temple before?
* **Jakub**: No...
* **Kasimir**: I thought you might have...
* **Jakub:** Why is that?
* **Kasimir:** Just your change in appearance. You say it was Rahadin, and I’m inclined to believe you if that's the case, but...

* **Jakub's father’s voice:** Oh. Hello there. So Yog's already got to you, has he?
* **Jakub:** I wasn't aware there were more of you.
* **Jakub's father’s voice:** It's a party. I say, you want to see this chap again, don’t you?
* **Jakub:** I’ve never really seen him before.
* **Jakub's father’s voice:** Yes, you have. How else would I know what he looks like! Come in and join the party. I bet I can take you right there to him!
* **Jakub**: And what is your name?
* **Sykane:** Oh, me? I’m Sykane.

**Chorus of voices:** Welcome home.

**Amber inscription:** If you seek honor or power, turn back - for these walls hold naught but doom. In amber tombs below, the darkness shelters a timeless evil. This temple is infected with a scourge of malevolent divinity. Our arrogance and folly forged this place into our prison. Leave now, before our damnation becomes yours. These halls hold none but doom.

**Aastrid:** I think we got this. I think we got the rules down, guys.

**Dawn:** This is going to sound crazy, but I am searching for a way to aid Strahd Von Zarovich.

**Kasimir:** I would like to see Strahd get...everything he truly deserves.

* **Neferon:** Are you here to pilfer the secrets of the Amber Temple?
* **Aastrid:** No. I'm here to learn.

**Kasimir:** Within Castle Ravenloft, at its entrance, stand stone dragons. These guardians were not always there. Originally belonging to the dusk elves, Strahd claimed them as prizes through his dark magic, twisting them into their current form. They now serve as sentinels, preventing anyone from leaving. Does that explanation suffice?

* **Aastrid:** There's a secret door behind that wall!
* **Dawn:** Then why haven't you used it?
* **Aastrid:** There's a book!

**Helwa:** Nix? No, no, you perished. You departed with the others and never returned!

**Helwa:** The shadows, they possess all knowledge. The shadows. No respite. You slumber, yet they deny you rest.

**Kasimir:** Put those bears away. Aastrid's got this handled.

* **Jakub:** Nix, give the spear! You never use it!
* **Nix:** This is a priceless artifact of my people!
* **Alshudar:** You could give ME!
* **Everyone:** Shut up, Alshudar!
* **Aastrid:** All right, everyone, back off! I have this under control!

* **Nix:** I must assist my tribespeople!
* **Jakub:** Nix, WE are your people now!

**Voice:** Now, that one is intriguing. Little miss sticky fingers, eh?

* **Glass Staff:** Oh, I remember you! You've arrived to join me!
* **Aastrid:** Join you? In death?
* **Glass Staff:** We're almost the same. I wear faces, you wear faces. I just didn't kill peopole for mine. unlike you. You devoured them, didn't you? Gobbled them up?

**Strahd:** I am a just ruler. This land's laws are my laws.

**Kasimir:** Jakub provided explicit instructions; I trust everyone followed them.

**Glass Staff:** You know, maybe your love with Jaime was never genuine. I mean, where are they now? Bruenor? Dead, not with you. Jamie? Dead, not with you! And who was that other one? Do you even remember her name?

* **Jakub:** Is your name...Exethanter?
* **Exethanter:** I don't fully know what's going on...but it's nice to have company...

**Exethanter:** It's my operating theory that we exist in a subsection of the Shadowfell.

**Exethanter:** There are some souls that they have to eat every now and then. But I've noted that some of the dark powers seem starved.

* **Exethanter:** You all really know a lot!
* **Aastrid:** We've been here a while...

**Exethanter: W**hat is left here for your sister? A thousand years have come and gone, what will she have here? And what will she say to you when you bring her back?

* **Nix:** How do the fanes play in all this?
* **Exethanter:** Awwww... little nature spirits, right?

* **Jakub:** So Strahd took over the land and then he made a deal? What did he get in return?
* **Exethanter**: Eternal life. His youth.

**Kasimir:** This is where I need to go to bring someone back. If you must know, it is my sister. Partially by my own hand.

* **Kasimir:** If she wants to work with Strahd, why would you want to bring her back?
* **Aastrid:** She's realized the errors of her ways.

* **Aastrid:** I know Fey. What about Fey?
* **Exethanter:** What was her last name?
* **Aastrid:** Sindarin.

**Exethanter:** I remember two figures coming here recently. There was the boy? The Vallakovich kid, and there was this figure near one of the amber vestiges. Big guy. Huge plate armor. Blood and scorch marks on it.

* **Exethanter:** Let's say ya get an arm cut off, it can come right back.
* **Jakub**: What if you get killed? Can you come back?
* **Exethanter:** Well, I feel like that must have been what I did...?

**Dawn:** Do you know the meaning of insanity, Jakub? It is doing the same thing over and over and over and expecting a different result. You want to kill Strahd—the same quest as every other hero who has ever entered this place. And he keeps coming back. And those heroes? They failed. They're only legends now, footnotes in some history book.

* **Dawn:** Wait... It's the elder evils... make sense. But how does...? I mean, it's clear as day, isn't it?
* **Exethanter:** I mean, I don't have a window here. Wanna gimme one?

* **Exethanter:** Arms of Hadar, can you still do that?
* **Aastrid**: No... no no no.
* **Exethanter:** You could do it before? Have you ever heard of the elder evils? The cultists who blaspheme the rules of reality often call to the elder evils. There is the multiverse of things that are and things that should NOT be. One of them is Hadar. Cultists have been calling on the power, entities like Hadar. But I don't think they stop and think about the spells they're casting. What are the elder evils doing here?
* **Aastrid**: I kept calling on the Hunger of Hadar...what was I doing?

**Exethanter:** I dunno yet. But as far as the dark powers, they feed. On souls, emotions, ambitions, dreams. They want champions because they help reshape the world into pieces and bring in more people. And pretty soon there's more and more potential dark lords running around.

* **Flameskulls:** Do not touch the sarcophagus. We will kill you.
* **Jakub**: Um... why don't you want me to touch the sarcophagus?
* **Flameskulls:** \*\*Flame eyes\*\*

* **Sykane:** Hello.
* **Jakub:** You made me a promise.
* **Sykane:** And I intend to keep it. Here, consume these.
* **Jakub:** If I eat these, will you give me what I want? A partnership?
* **Sykane:** Well, it's not really a partnership anymore, is it? It's more like a threesome.

**Sykane:** Some of those naughty little heads are trying to get in the way of our conversation. Knock their blocks off, my dear champ. And we'll continue.

* **Nix:** What exactly is the Feywild?
* **Exathanter: I**t's where the fey come from!
* **Nix:** You're saying there's a whole other life that I had?
* **Exethanter:** Yeh, probably! You probably have to talk to one of those fellows down there.

**Exethanter:** That's a pretty cool hero's story, right? A hero has some lost memories, a quest to defeat the dark lord, vows to kill him, it's just the thing to get Strahd's blood running, so to speak!

**Exethanter:** There are 3 fundamental principles. The spirit must be free. The vessel must be bound. Two become one... So the target of the ritual must be on the current plane without form. The vessel must be in a magic circle. When the ritual is complete, the spirit will be fused with the vessel, creating a whole new being.

**Aastrid:** Why am I heeeeeeeereeee? It's been so looooong.

* **Kasimir:** His voice calling to me.
* **Dawn:** The amber is speaking to you?
* **Kasimir:** No--the one who could help me bring back my sister...

**Ashardalon:** Power is your blood. Fire is your birthright. Cleanse this land of the wretched undead.

**Aastrid:** Harsan? It's Ember. It's ME. I know I didn't save you, and this is my fault. I was there when you died. And I know you didn't like me very much. I wasn't very nice, but you have to leave with me. We'll protect you. You need to go.

**Alshudar:** Listen, sometimes you just have to save people. And you don't talk about it! 'Cause then you realize that life has passed you by, and you're a fucking shield!!!

* **Harsan:** Where is Fey?
* **Aastrid:** Fey's dead. I looked for you both. I found her, but you were gone.

**Harsan:** Even pawns in the right circumstances can checkmate a king.

* **Zhudun/Fey:** You are here to revive the ancient dead. Will you accept our gift?
* **Kasimir:** Is that the price that I must pay?
* **Zhudun/Fey:** There will be no price. You're doing US a favor.
* **Kasimir:** By coming here requesting my sister? What do I get?
* **Zhudun/Fey:** The power to do so.
* **Kasimir:** You offer it to me.
* **Zhudun/Fey:** The power is in your hands.

* **Harsan**: My name is... sss... Ember... ssember.
* **Exethanter:** Your name is Ember Sember?
* **Harsan:** My parents were not particularly creative.

**Exethanter:** Oh! You're a Lathander man!

**Harsan:** I have yet to meet a lich in the flesh... in person.

**Sister Dawn:** You can't just bind Vampyr to a rock or a tree, the book has to say something about what kind of entity is strong enough to hold it.

* **Aastrid**: Alshudar, tell me everything you know about Zen.
* **Alshudar:** Zen was a ginger guy! He had an owl named Dawn. He was kind, sometimes he had issues with the bathroom. He was incredibly charismatic. He really hated Strahd. And he also REALLY hated Rahadin. He could transform into shapes and transform others into different shapes! Once he turned into a deer!
* **Harsan**: What words would you use to describe that deer?
* **Alshudar:** A VERY mighty deer.

**Sister Dawn:** What is it you seek?

* **Kasimir:** You said Tatyana? And you don't know what happened with Sergei and Strahd?
* **Aastrid**: Nope. Enlighten us.
* **Kasimir:** I see. Well, Strahd came to Barovia and named it such. After he had established himself here, he invited his brother and mother to come stay here. His brother met a young woman here, and they fell in love. Strahd was not happy for his brother. He lusted after Tatyana, and his hatred for his brother grew more and more. Strahd decided he had to intervene... at their wedding. Strahd preyed upon his baby brother and the woman that he loved. He chased Tatyana through the gardens of Ravenloft, his brother's blood still dripping from his mouth. Tatyana tried to escape, and instead of spending a minute longer with that devil, she threw herself off the castle and died to escape him.

**Kasimir:** The land was called Cerrunos.

**Exethanter:** If not for Patrina, I don't know if Strahd would have even found this place.

* **Nix:** What are you planning to do?
* **Kasimir:** I have the power to bring her back. The dark powers below.
* **Harsan**: I had someone who was like a sister too. She was faced with a similar choice that you are now. Given what we know now about your sister, I think you don't need to bring someone back in order to obtain forgiveness. You don't have to make this deal if what you're after is closure. I think this is not the path of closure that you seek. I think what you need is to destroy Strahd.

**Sister Dawn:** I trust you, I do not trust this place.

**Aastrid:** There's gonna be a statue here, don't fucking look at it.

* **Neferon the Arcanaloth**: Whoa there, I don't think you're allowed to take that.
* **Harsan:** Does anyone else hear that?
* **Neferon the Arcanaloth: L**ook, I'm gonna be really direct here. You've got a fancy little hilt there. I'm gonna give you 10 seconds to DROP it.

* **Aastrid:** I took my fucking chances, kill the bird!
* **Harsan:** Kill the bir-- what exactly do you think I can DO?

* **Aastrid:** Harsan! Bury yourself in the snow!
* **Harsan:** \*dig dig dig\* Is that good?
* **Aastrid:** Mhmh!

* **Harsan:** I think that's enough dimension-sing for today.
* **Aastrid:** Aw, are you getting car sick? I TOLD you I'd get us out!

* **Neferon the Arcanaloth:** Naughty naughty naughty. Where are the others?
* **Nix:** That's an excellent question, to which I do not have the answer.
* **Neferon the Arcanaloth:** A shame. You died keeping secrets.

* **Aastrid:** Dawn wanted to copy all those notes, and Nix wanted to get all her druid friends, so we should wait for them for at least a few hours.
* **Harsan:** Okay, but do we want to do that buried in the snow?

* **Harsan: I** think it would be a bad idea for me to go back there.
* **Aastrid:** I think it's a bad idea for YOU to go back there for SURE.

**Harsan:** We're on the run... together.

* **Harsan:** I don't know how long we can wait here.
* **Aastrid:** I know Dawn would take at least a day.
* **Harsan:** What's her deal?
* **Aastrid:** Whaddaya mean?
* **Harsan:** The first thing she did was insist that I see this Abbot.
* **Aastrid**: She's nice and caring. She's a healer, I think.
* **Harsan:** Oh, that's good. By the way, thank you for getting me out of here! It meant a lot that you came to save me. And I didn't wanna say so, but you look different?
* **Aastrid:** You know, it's funny. There was an evil spirit controlling my mind.

* **Aastrid:** So we have to get past a really mean goat.
* **Harsan:** Do... do you want me to kill that goat? That goat tried to hurt you, I'll kill that fucking goat.
* **Aastrid:** Yeah! You wanna kill that goat for me?
* **Harsan:** I swear to god, that goat comes near you, I'm gonna fuck that goat up.

* **Kasimir:** Could you leave this place without Nix?
* **Dawn:** Nix was the truest of heroes.

* **Aastrid:** Harsan might be a little annoyed...
* **Harsan**: I am not annoyed. I am happy to be here with you.

* **Aastrid:** Dawn wants to build Strahd a rag doll wife for him...
* **Harsan:** Like... like a scarecrow?
* **Aastrid:** Yeah, but with human body parts. And it walks.
* **Harsan:** He's not killing people for these body parts?
* **Aastrid:** Not as far as I'm aware.
* **Harsan:** So worst-case scenario, he's desecrating graves to do this?
* **Aastrid:** Yeah, it's morally grey, but he's trying to defeat Strahd.
* **Harsan:** Okay, I don't have the mental capacity to deal with this right now. Like...
* **Aastrid:** Yeah, self-care.
* **Harsan:** Yeah, like for me... That's killing Strahd.

**Harsan:** Whoa, whoa, whoa, way to bury the lede! Ismark is a GOAT? Or a PIG? Or a FARM ANIMAL?

* **Escher**: Oh my fucking god, it is so cold out there.
* **Bodaks:** Grrrrr.
* **Escher**: Why do I keep talking if I know you can't respond?

* **Dawn: I** hope we can meet again one day.
* **Kasimir:** In the pursuit of knowledge, sacrifices must be made.
* **Dawn:** No, we have lost our dear friends Nix and Alshudar to this place. Our sacrifices have been made. We will not pay for yours. If the fox creature wants the staff back, I suggest you leave it.
* **Kasimir:** I suggest we leave...

**Escher:** Gents, what do you think? We found her here and the undead thing got her first and she died... maybe... naw, that doesn't do it.

* **Harsan:** Want me to kill this guy?
* **Aastrid:** This guy's a thorn in my fucking side... Yeah, let's kill that guy.

**Escher:** We're gonna blue sky it. We're gonna game this out! We're gonna detoxify the brand so we can go super sonic! We're gonna find a corpse and dress it up to look like Ember, and I'll use my makeup skills to make her look really pretty. And say, like, ooooh she didn't wanna come to the wedding! But then what do we do about that fucking bitch... It's FISK's fault! Yeah, Fisk jumps the gun. So then Fisk is gone, and Volenta is playing with the bones, and Anastrasya's with the Wachter Lady....

**Aastrid**: Too bad Esher's body was disintegrated. I would have liked to desecrate it a little bit.

**Harsan:** So... you brought the sun?

**Harsan:** I'm glad you didn't kill Rahadin. 'Cause I intend to kill him.

**V:** I originally hail from Vallaki... um, such a happy place.

* **Harsan:** I'm so glad we have a good stable group of non-problematic people.
* **Aastrid:** I think you'll like Dawn, you're both calm and cool and collected.
* **Harsan: I** think the problem with the former group was someone was always sus.
* **Aastrid**: It was usually me! I was a chaos bolt!

* **V:** Do you trust me, dearie?
* **Dawn:** I just met you five minutes ago, do what you want though!
* **V:** Suit yourself? How about you?
* **Kasimir:** I also just met you.
* **V:** Ah well... Good luck!

**Dawn: W**ait, I think they took care of it... Aw, fuck, the bird took Jakub's body... I wanted that...

**V: Y**ou're so warm, friend.... Are you a tiefling?

* **V:** Are you still here, Kasimir? Or am I alone?
* **Kasimir:** I am here.
* **V:** Okay, great!

* **Harsan:** What you have to fear right now is me.
* **V:** Trust me, I've seen much scarier things than you!
* **Harsan:** Who are you?
* **V:** I'm V!
* **Harsan:** V is not a name, that's a letter.
* **V:** Who are YOU?
* **Harsan:** I'm Harsan? The guy who's about to bash your fucking face in.
* **V:** You might wanna release the future burgomaster of Vallaki.
* **Aastrid:** I watched Vallaki burn to the ground, motherfucker.
* **V:** So you're the one who burnt down my home?
* **Harsan:** You burnt his house to the ground?
* **Aastrid:** I didn't burn his house to the ground, Harsan. Shut up, I'm doing a thing.

* **Dawn:** Harsan just tackled that guy! What are they doing over there? Why the fuck are they not running away???
* **Aastrid:** Harsan, I don't know how this guy escaped, but Vallaki burned, the Vallakoviches aren't in charge anymore.

* **Aastrid:** I don't want to talk to you.
* **Victor:** Well, you're stuck with me in this cave for now.
* **Harsan:** This guy bothering you?

**Aastrid:** Heard you're marrying, on our way. Where and when? We haven't forgotten you. Help me help you.

**Harsan:** So, because of your background, you have what we call 'privilege'...

* **Harsan:** How do you think she lost her mind?
* **Victor:** ...she was so young.

* **Dawn:** Dawn is reciting the tenets of redemption.
* **Harsan:** Harsan is reciting the tenets of beating ass.

**Sangzor:** MEEEEEEEEEEEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEE.

* **Aastrid:** I wanna come back to you. And I think if I die now, I never will. So you have to save me.
* **Strahd:** Of course. This isn't where you're supposed to die.
* **Aastrid:** I didn't pray to you!
* **Strahd:** When ANYONE prays in Barovia, who do you think answers?