The Scions of Strahd (Act One)

## Session One: Into the Mists

We venture into a humble tavern nestled somewhere along the Sword Coast, its doors creaking open to reveal a scene of quiet turmoil. **Zilveren Dimforge** stands resolute, burdened by the troubles befalling the town. Werewolves, sinister creatures that haunt the night, have been plaguing the villagers, snatching innocent children from their homes.

Seeking aid and information, Zilveren leads us to the Blind Marksman Inn, a dimly lit establishment with an air of mystery. Here, we find Halia Thorton, a contact of Zilveren's and a member of the enigmatic Zhentarim organization. Zikra, one of the Zhentarim, has vanished without a trace, leaving behind only unanswered questions. Zilveren is determined to uncover the truth behind her disappearance.

Yet, Zilveren's quest extends beyond personal vendettas. He is also driven by the hope of a promotion, a reward promised to him if he aids in the eradication of the werewolf menace.

In this rustic tavern, presiding over the weary souls, stands Tact, a renowned and beloved barkeep of these lands. He offers us a libation known as "Dragon Piss," a drink Zilveren rejects, bu**t Feyalin Sindarin**, ever adventurous, takes a bold swig, feeling the fire cascade down her throat. Feyalin, a cleric, and **Harsan Khabhen,** a dragonborn, have been asked by Zilveren to help him in tracking down Zikra. Fey and Harsan were raised in an elven enclave as followers of Lathander.

Suddenly, our perspective shifts to a forgotten wood, cloaked in perpetual gloom, where an Elf named **Ember** **Willowblaze** and her feline companion, Jasper, navigate their way through a treacherous path marked on an aged map. Ember, armed with a pack, journal, and map, seeks the Vinstani, a group led by the wise and ancient soothsayer, Madame Eva. It is through her that Ember hopes to uncover the answers she seeks. Alas, the woods confound her, and she finds herself momentarily lost.

Jasper, the imperious feline, his impatience palpable, senses an impending danger, alerting Ember to the imminent threat. They stumble upon a group of grotesque beings known as the Needle Blights, their bodies adorned with lethal spikes. Battle ensues, a clash of steel and magic, but fortune favors the grotesque, as Ember's every move falters against their relentless assault. Jasper, skewered by their wicked needles, vanishes from sight, leaving Ember to face her doom alone. Yet, with a final burst of arcane power, she freezes her adversaries, shattering the armor of one and dispatching the rest with her sling.

Back with Zilveren, Harsan, and Fey, we see Strix, a remarkable silver owl sculpted entirely from metal. This peculiar creation accompanies us as we press onward, the cloak of night descending upon the land. Our journey leads us into a foreboding forest, its periphery tainted by inky sludge. Wolf tracks, an omen of the creatures we seek, adorn the ground, at least five distinct sets to be exact. Knowing that werewolves require the full moon to unleash their savage transformations, we must subdue them while they are at their weakest.

As the distant howls of the wolves permeate the night, we hasten toward their source. Fey, devout in her faith, offers prayers for divine intervention, beseeching the gods to guide our path. Miraculously, her devotion is rewarded, for success follows in her wake. Harsan, too, finds fortune favoring him, while Zilveren, the steadfast leader, secures success in his endeavors.

In a frantic retreat from the resounding cacophony, we stumble upon the imposing Gates of Barovia, which open wider still upon our arrival. Zilveren, a connoisseur of architectural craftsmanship, marvels at the intricate design, a testament to the ancient kingdoms that once reigned supreme.

Amidst the ensuing turmoil, a lighthearted moment unfolds as Zilveren's attempts to pronounce Harsan's name are met with comical frustration. However, our attention swiftly returns to Ember, who ventures into Barovia from an entirely different direction. Her ears are assailed by mournful sobbing that echoes through the desolate town. She spies an old woman engaged in conversation with another, a cart brimming with delectable pastries at her side. The fragrant pies beckon Ember, as does the old woman's willingness to share her life's story. Elk and Maple Nut pies emit an alluring aroma.

Inquisitive by nature, Ember seeks knowledge of recent events from the old woman. Glimpses of sorrow flicker in her eyes as she recounts the tale. Outsiders, she warns, seldom escape with their lives. Rebellion once coursed through these lands, but it was crushed beneath the iron heel of Strahd, the malevolent lord who rules with an iron fist. Barovia, a land consumed by darkness, trembles beneath his influence. The old woman, fearing for our lives, shares the location where we might find her pies, a signal that elicits a mischievous response from Jasper.

Ember, resolute in her purpose, sets her sights on the church, a sanctuary where she hopes to uncover the whereabouts of Madame Eva and the Vistani. Yet, as she crosses the threshold, spine-chilling sounds reverberate from beneath the floorboards, lending an eerie aura to the holy place. She encounters Father Donavich, a disheveled figure muttering prayers to himself, his robes dirtied by the weight of his despair.

With steadfast devotion, Ember entreats the Morning Lord, seeking guidance on her quest. The anguished cry of a starving soul reaches her ears, wrenching her heart. Father Donavich reveals himself to be the only resident left in this forsaken temple beseeching Ember to save them from their torment. She, however, remains the first visitor in months, hailing from the distant Krezk. His relief is palpable, for the devil incarnate, Strahd, has yet to encroach upon their domain. The name Strahd, spoken for the first time, resonates with an aura of dread.

Yet, Father Donavich, his mind frayed by anguish, warns Ember against the Vistani, claiming they are harbingers of evil. In his eyes, they are but pawns of Strahd, his eyes and ears throughout the land. Burdened by suspicion, Ember wrestles with conflicting emotions. Desperate for answers, she inquires about the mysterious figure locked away in the church's basement, triggering an explosion of apprehension within the priest. Accusing her of serving Strahd, he reveals his true deranged nature, for he keeps his own son confined beneath the church's hallowed halls.

Returning to the main group, we find ourselves back in the tavern, where the lamentations of a grief-stricken woman selling her pies pierce the air. Though her destitution is evident, she possesses a gift for salesmanship that belies her circumstances. We succumb to the temptation and acquire a chicken and cherry pie, while the old woman's self-consciousness about her age tinges her words with vulnerability.

She regales us with the tale of a rebellion that transpired four decades past, led by a valiant group known as the Shield of Wings. Alas, their noble cause was crushed by Strahd, and the remnants of their shattered dreams still haunt this land. Castle Ravenloft, a looming testament to Strahd's dominion, casts a long shadow over Borovia. It is in this bleak atmosphere that we encounter Ismark the Lesser, who reveals himself as the son of the deceased Burgomaster.

As Harsan unveils his face, his presence shocks the entire tavern, branding him a follower of Strahd. Only when he announces our search for the Burgomaster does Ismark relent, recognizing that the information would be unknown to Strahd's minions. Our attention turns to three enigmatic women in the establishment, their tranquil composure amidst the chaos raising suspicion.

Insight reveals their deep-rooted comfort within the tavern, and we observe Ismark, slightly inebriated, while Mad Mary, grief-stricken, clutches a doll that once belonged to her missing daughter. Ismark shares the tragic history of his father's demise and the Shield of Wings' failed rebellion. With the weight of sorrow hanging heavy in the air, he implores us to grant his father the last rites, a final act of respect for the fallen Burgomaster.

Meanwhile, Ember's path intersects with ours once more, as she emerges from the church. Unperturbed by the torment echoing from beneath the floorboards, she dismisses Father Donavich as a harbinger of falsehoods. Her suspicions are confirmed, for the wretched priest harbors a dark secret. The realization dawns upon us, beckoning us to stand united against the encroaching darkness that threatens to consume Barovia and our souls.

## Session Two: He Is the Land

Ismark leads us to his dilapidated mansion in Barovia. The sight is a chilling testament to the horrors that have befallen this place. Broken windows, overgrown weeds, evidence of wolf attacks—it is a place steeped in darkness.

Within the mansion, we meet Ireena, Ismark's sister. She exudes an air of pensiveness and sadness, burdened by guilt and mourning. Yet, a glimmer of hope lights her eyes upon our arrival. Her father has recently passed, mysteriously devoid of any visible wounds. Ismark and Ireena implore us to grant their father a proper funeral.

During our discussions, Zilveren stumbles upon a book by Rudolf Van Richten, a name familiar to Fey from her studies of the undead. Curiosity piqued, Harsan bravely asks if they have encountered Strahd, the vampire lord who haunts these lands. And then, the truth emerges—Ireena has been bitten by a vampire.

Fey's knowledge comes to the fore, explaining that Ireena will heal naturally from the bite, but if bitten again, she will succumb to the vampiric curse. The first bites appeared eight days ago when their windows were shattered. We share the knowledge of vampire weaknesses: forbiddance, running water, stakes to the heart, and the searing power of the sun.

Accompanying the body to the church, we encounter Father Donavich. His skittish demeanor raises suspicions, and he hastily excuses himself, leaving Fey to lead the funeral service. Claw marks and bite wounds mar the church, evidence of the horrors that have encroached upon this holy place. We lay the Burgomaster to rest, bidding him a final farewell.

But our respite is short-lived. Rahadin, a servant of Strahd, appears, bearing a letter for Ireena. Fear grips her heart as Fey takes the letter instead. Suddenly, blood-curdling howls and screams rend the air, and combat ensues. We shield and protect one another, fighting valiantly against Rahadin's malevolent presence.

Fey, unfortunately, falls in battle, targeted by Rahadin's cruel intentions to force her submission. He carves a twisted symbol into her hand as a grotesque reminder. The fight rages on, and though some attempt to disengage, Rahadin offers a potion to heal Fey. However, his words and intentions are met with mistrust and disdain.

As the battle concludes, we realize we may have underestimated our opponent. Yet, Fey remains steadfast in her determination to vanquish Rahadin. The letter meant for Ireena unveils a disturbing truth—it is a love letter from Strahd himself, a chilling revelation that sends shivers down our spines.

We manage to convince Ireena to join us on our journey, knowing that she is the target of Strahd's desires. Ismark, however, vehemently opposes the idea and retreats to the safety of the mansion. Fey, driven by compassion and concern, follows after him.

The rest of us make our way to the Inn, where we encounter a group of women with a deep-seated hatred for the Vistani. Ember is instructed to deliver a defiant message to Madame Eva—an indication of their disdain. Harsan finds himself the target of mistaken identity, mistaken for a Teifling. Seeking directions, we are tasked with intimidating and extorting Radu Roduvich, taking his money and returning it to the women—Elenka, Mirabel, and Sorvia.

However, as Harsan removes his hood, revealing his true dragonborn form, Radu's terror takes hold, mistaking him for none other than the devil himself—Strahd. The echoes of fear resound, leaving us to grapple with the consequences of our actions.

## Session Three: Madame Eva

The party spends the night at the inn. They dream:

Harsan feels a warmth blossoming within him, a comforting tranquility that permeates his being. The mist surrounding him mirrors his breath, expanding and contracting. He realizes that the warmth he feels is a natural part of his dragonborn heritage—a sign of his innate leadership. Being raised to follow instead of lead feels wrong to him. The mist transforms into smoke, and he embraces his fiery nature.

Ember enters a trance, feeling a sense of unease without Jasper by her side. In this dream, she finds herself in a breathtaking setting—a picturesque meadow filled with gentle creatures. Familiarity washes over her, and the creatures warmly greet her, growing brighter as she speaks to them. She realizes that she is the source of light, bringing color and vibrancy to the world. She searches for someone and finds a smiling figure waiting for her beside a tree. They embrace, and the person whispers something to her. Ember replies with a joyful laugh, saying, "Yes, I am. He's a handful, just like you." This dream fills her with relief, and she wakes up feeling remarkably calm and relaxed.

Fey finds herself back in her childhood home, where only her father is present. He expresses delight at seeing her return and informs her that everyone else is celebrating her safe return from the lands of the undead. He shares his happiness at being able to watch over her forever now that she knows how to live forever. Curious, he asks her how to "crack the code." Although she admits not knowing the answer, Fey suggests that she can clear her mind and join the rest of the family in the festivities. Her father's pride shines through, filling Fey with giddiness and self-assurance. She expresses gratitude to Lathander for blessing her with her newfound abilities, and the air in the house is thick with affection.

Zilveren experiences a recurring dream—a table with a mark: AZ. Everything is there, and this time, he hopes the dream will diverge from its previous iterations. He exclaims that it's almost complete, the moment he has been waiting for. Placing a piece in the center of the chest, he realizes it doesn't fit. Confusion washes over him; he measured everything correctly, but something went wrong. He feels like he has let Catherine down. The dream ends, leaving him with a sense of unease and the feeling that everything is amiss.

Jasper, the ever-annoyed feline, returns with Ember, recounting his recent adventure. He followed a priest and encountered a human who lunged at him, attempting to bite. The assailant claimed to smell Ember's blood, setting Jasper on edge.

The group gathers for a pleasant breakfast, discussing the events of the previous day. Harsan reveals that he accidentally broke the bed, and Zilveren offers his skills to fix it. Showing off his glowing balls that emit light when touched and commanded with the word "Sol," Zilveren heads back upstairs to attend to the bed.

Meanwhile, Fey enjoys breakfast with Ireena and Ismark. Ismark, visibly anxious, chops vegetables with fervor. Fey does her best to reassure him, providing comfort and support. The farewell between Ireena and Ismark is deeply heartfelt. Before leaving with Ireena, Fey blesses Ismark and Ireena plants a gentle kiss on his cheek, uncertain when the siblings will reunite again.

Returning to the inn, Zilveren makes another attempt to repair the broken bed, determined to succeed this time. Fey and Ireena join them, and Zilveren hands Fey a potion of Resilience. Engaging in some role-play, the group collectively decides that their quests intersect, leading them to the Soothsayer, Madame Eva.

Leaving the inn, they encounter the Pie Granny and purchase several delicious pies. Continuing their journey, fatigue starts to affect some members of the group. In the distance, terrifying wolf howls pierce the air. Zilveren stumbles, feeling a hard impact on his knee.

Ember discovers a small vase or urn, adorned with Dwarvish runes that only Zilveren can read. Distressed, Zilveren is visibly upset and shedding tears. Curiosity gets the better of Ember, who probes Zilveren's mind. She witnesses a young Zilveren standing amidst a fire, surrounded by lifeless guards. At the end of a long hallway lies a woman, decapitated, her pregnant form sprawled on the ground. Zilveren cradles her body and departs, vowing to finish what she started. Ember catches a glimpse of Catherine's face and her vibrant green eyes. The urn confirms that it holds Catherine's remains. The group tries to console Zilveren, but his despair proves challenging to assuage.

Continuing their journey, they come across a gallows with a haunting sign. They press on towards the Tser Pool and notice a body now hanging from the gallows, which briefly points at them before vanishing—an eerie sight that unsettles Fey. Crossing the River Ivilis, they suddenly hear wolf howls emanating from all directions—wolves!

The group finds themselves in a fierce battle, surrounded by five dire wolves. Strix skillfully lands a hit, and Harsan follows suit. Fey experiences a peculiar moment when her spell aimed at the dire wolves fails, causing the scar on her hand to burn and her spiritual weapon to flicker along with the scar's flare-up. Ember's slingshot finds its mark, and Jasper fearlessly jumps into the fray. Ireena also joins the fight, dealing damage.

Jasper gets shaken off and plunges into the water. Strix suffers significant injuries, while Fey becomes pinned under a wolf until Harsan comes to her rescue. Finally, Fey's spiritual weapon becomes effective, aiding their cause. Zilveren and Harsan exhibit their growing understanding of the wolves' patterns, skillfully defending themselves. Harsan claims the first kill of the campaign, launching a dire wolf into the river. Fey continues to deal significant damage, and Ireena surprisingly passes by a wolf without provoking an opportunity attack. The wolf refrains from attacking her. The battle rages on, with Ember, Ireena, and the group delivering powerful blows.

It becomes apparent that the dire wolves refuse to jeopardize Ireena's life, hinting at their affiliation with Strahd. More combat unfolds until Ireena discovers something crucial about the wolves. She positions herself between a wolf and Zilveren, causing the creatures to turn and flee. As they retreat, Zilveren and Harsan seize the opportunity to strike. Ember deduces that Ireena's safety was the determining factor for the wolves' behavior.

With the combat ended, the group assesses their injuries, battered and bruised from the intense battle. They continue onward, arriving at a city that elicits a solemn feeling in Ember and Fey. Despite the city's dilapidated state, its inhabitants appear relatively cheery. They encounter several Vistani. Zilveren assists them in lighting a bonfire.

Beyond them lies the tent of Madame Eva, whom they were seeking. They also hear her voice calling out to each of them individually. Harsan is addressed as the Spawn of the Calamity, Ireena as the Dearest of the Dark Lord, Fey as the disciple of the Dawnlord, Zilveren as "Argentum," the Master Tinkerer, and Ember's preference for a name is confirmed as **Aastrid.**

Madame Eva proceeds to read their fortunes. Fey is warned about a man disguised within a carnival wagon, holding what she seeks. Harsan learns that his aspirations go beyond destroying the undead, leading him to a treasure hidden behind amber doors. Zilveren seeks to recover what he has lost and is guided to a fallen house guarded by a massive stone dragon. Ireena's pursuit of knowledge requires companionship, urging her to seek a dusk elf among the Vistani who is tormented by darkness. Finally, Ember hears her forgotten name and is foretold that the only way to reach her goal is by venturing through the hall of bones in the darkest depths of Strahd's castle.

## Session Four: The Path After the Prophecies

In the land of Barovia, we find ourselves within the mystical tent of Madame Eva, a peculiar seer gifted with the ability to see beyond the veil. The Vistani, nomadic wanderers, roam these lands, carrying with them stories and secrets. Among them, there are the Mortu, once Vistani themselves but now banished and exiled.

Madame Eva turns her gaze towards Ireena, her voice carrying an air of foreknowledge as she proclaims, "This one knows. We have no choice in the roles we play." Zilveren quenches his thirst with a cool tea, and soon we depart from Madame Eva's tent.

Outside, our eyes behold a diverse group of Vistani, including a performer with elaborate makeup.

The storyteller weaves a tale of heroes who arrived in this very camp four decades ago. They stood where we now stand, united against the dark forces of Strahd. Among them, a courageous human named Fisk, a mysterious tiefling known as Fitzak, a half-orc named Alshudar Belstrom, and a mighty spellcaster shrouded in a cloak. Together, they rallied the people of Barovia, but their valiant efforts ended in failure. When Strahd emerged from his castle, the heroes fled, leaving the spellcaster to face the vampire lord alone. Thunder cracked, boulders rained from the sky, and in the end, the spellcaster fell a thousand feet, consumed by the grip of Strahd's evil.

The storyteller finishes his tale. The party greets one of the Vistani--a woman named Eliza. She asks the party, if they head towards the safe village of Vallaki, to go to a place called Blinksy's Toys. That's where we must acquire a plush monkey toy for Eliza's niece, Arabelle. Luvash, Eliza's brother, should be the one to deliver this heartfelt gift. Eliza proudly showcases her magpie companion. Strix follows suit, attempting to replicate the trick.

As our journey unfolds, Fey and Harsan engage in a conversation regarding the will of Lathander, their god. Meanwhile, Ember seeks Madame Eva's wisdom, longing to understand how she came to know her true name, Aastrid. Unveiling the mystery, Eva explains that while she possesses the ability to see through most souls, Ember's essence is veiled by unfamiliar ley lines. These elusive origins differ from the source that grants Eva her own visions.

Zilveren and Harsan share a discussion surrounding Eva's use of a different name for Zilveren. It is revealed that Zilveren was once known as Argentum.

As the night progresses, Fey and Ember engage in a conversation about Ember's name. Suspicions arise as Aastrid reveals that she has adopted various identities throughout her numerous journeys in Barovia.

Eventually, we succumb to slumber and venture into the realm of dreams.

Ember's dream encompasses a vivid sequence, where fragments of her past lives flutter before her eyes, merging into her being one after another, until she transforms back into Aastrid. Suddenly, she blinks, finding herself in Elysium once more, face to face with Jamie. A surge of warmth fills her as she exclaims, "My love, I've missed you." Jamie responds with endearment, inquiring about her well-being. Exhausted, she expresses her weariness, feeling as though she has been absent for decades. Jamie consoles her, explaining the fluid nature of time in this realm. Aastrid notices a hint of sadness in Jamie's expression, and she embraces him tightly. Determined to find a way back to him, she confides in him about her encounter with the seer, vowing that this elven form she currently inhabits will be her last, promising to return to him from this vessel. In the midst of their emotional exchange, Droop, observing the scene, points towards Aastrid and curiously asks, "Is that yours?" Jamie affirms, declaring that Aastrid belongs to him forever. But Droop persists, now directing his question to Aastrid, pointing at Jamie. Confused, Aastrid confirms that Jamie's soul belongs to her. Without pause, Droop repeats his chant, growing louder and more intense, "Is that yours? Is that yours? IS THAT YOURS?" As he continues, Jamie's lifeless body morphs into a bloated corpse dripping with spider venom, a macabre sight of decay. Aastrid's scream fills the air, her eyes shut tightly for a brief moment. When she opens them, Glasstaff, wearing a wicked smile, stands before her, reminding her, "No, he's not yours. He's mine, remember?" Aastrid awakens, the memory of the harrowing dream still fresh in her mind.

In another realm of dreams, Fey experiences a different vision. Transported back in time, she finds herself studying the tenets of Lathander, the Morning Lord, under the guidance of a towering elf donned in robes of blue, bearing the insignia of the deity. Engaged in a pop quiz, Fey is questioned about a verse from the Book of Lathander. As she recites it, the voice of Rahadin, Strahd's loyal servant, emanates from her mentor, rebuking her answer. A disconcerting exchange follows, where Rahadin accuses Fey of not serving the Morning Lord adequately, declaring her excommunicated. Fey's attention is drawn to a disturbing discovery—a clear "S" etched into her tongue—a mark bestowed upon her by her lord and master. Confused and lost, her mind drifts further back in time to her early childhood, as Rahadin bellows, "You're supposed to BOW!"

When they wake up, bonds are strengthened as Fey and Harsan engage in a prayer of the dawn, reflecting upon Fey's disconcerting vision. With renewed resolve, we bid farewell to our Vistani friends and set forth on our journey towards Vallaki.

As we traverse a bridge, our eyes catch sight of a gaunt figure bounding towards us on all fours, emitting a maniacal laugh. Simultaneously, twig zombies emerge, advancing relentlessly upon us. Battle ensues, and Harsan unleashes a fiery breath, scorching two of the undead assailants. Ireena, intrigued by a different twig blight, experiences a vision—a congregation of blights kneeling before her, accompanied by a cloaked figure. The enigmatic individual places a hand under her chin, directing her gaze towards the worshiping creatures. The vision abruptly ends, leaving us in awe.

Identifying the one controlling the twig blights as a druid, Ireena shares her insight with the group. Zilveren attempts to ignite the druid, but his flames are deftly evaded and swatted away. Strix seizes a blight with her talons, lifting it off the ground. Ember employs a ruse, proclaiming to be escorting a servant of Strahd. Though skeptical, the druid acknowledges that he has not been informed about us, recognizing us as adversaries. Ember cunningly creates illusory duplicates of herself. Fey aids in the battle by obliterating the druid with a guiding bolt, while Harsan deals with the remaining threats. The combat comes to an end, and we search the druid's lifeless body, uncovering any treasures it may hold.

During our exploration, Ireena shares the details of her vision, prompting speculation about her potential gift of sight. Fey stumbles upon a new staff, and our journey leads us to a dilapidated stone windmill. Tilting to one side, its brick walls and wooden platform tell a tale of neglect. Perched atop it is a raven, and Fey senses the presence of a watching woman. Curiosity piqued, Harsan and Fey approach the windmill, their arrival announced with a resounding knock on the door. We are soon greeted by a a pleasant figure, while Ember chooses to remain concealed.

## Session Five: The Windmill

The weary travelers, Fey and Harsan, are granted entry into the house of a seemingly harmless baker. Determined to ensure they are not vampires, the baker, named Bella, insists on verbally inviting them in. It's an odd precaution, and they can't help but question her intelligence. Bella, a half-devil with small horns, explains that her father was a tiefling, and her sister is busy baking pies. The name "Morgantha" is mentioned, likely referring to Bella's mother. In a surprising revelation, they learn that Bella's father is Fitzak, one of the adventurers who led a rebellion in the past.

Upon reaching Vallaki, they can't resist expressing their delight at the taste of Granny's pies. However, their conversation takes a dark turn when they identify Rahadin as the Black Spider, causing their spirits to dampen. Bella is genuinely shocked to discover that they are magic users, further piquing their curiosity.

When they leave, their group ventures into a spooky forest, only to be confronted by a horde of eleven zombies. The ensuing battle is fierce. Fey calls upon her divine powers to turn three of the undead creatures, while Ireena skillfully evades their attacks. Harsan, displaying his prowess, dispatches a zombie on his own, while Ember and Jasper employ their spells to the best of their abilities. Fey, channeling the power of Lathander, turns another zombie through intimidation, and Harsan finds himself momentarily stuck as his sword becomes lodged in a zombie's rotting flesh. Ember summons the dark energies of Hadar, wreaking havoc among the undead, and Zilveren leads some zombies toward Harsan. Ireena successfully vanquishes her first zombie.

Curiously, Jasper seems to be experiencing some form of withdrawal, possibly related to his addiction to pie. Their attention is diverted when Harsan sets three zombies ablaze, further thinning their ranks. Ember, attempting to deceive the zombies, declares that they are servants of Strahd, hoping to deter their attacks. However, a mist envelops their minds, compelling them to continue their assault.

It is revealed that the mists themselves are separate entities, adding to the mystery and danger that surrounds them. Harsan, with his sentinel instincts, takes advantage of an opportunity attack and slays another zombie. Striving to protect Ireena, they notice that the zombies are attempting to grapple her, possibly with the intent of capturing her.

Together, Zilveren and Strix fight in tandem, combining their efforts to dispatch several zombies. Eventually, the combat comes to an end, and they retreat to a clearing in the forest to rest. During this respite, it becomes evident that something is amiss with Jasper, Fey, and Ember. The three of them indulge in a piece of pie taken from the windmill and immediately seem to find relief from their troubles.

While some of them contemplate the mist and its implications, Zilveren delivers a passionate monologue, recounting his encounter with the divine and the hideous face of a god. Fey and Harsan engage in a discussion about Lathander and the time Harsan had encountered him.

As night falls, they succumb to the realm of dreams. Zilveren dreams of his workshop, where his daughter appears, eager to assist him. However, to his horror, she hands him her own heart, pleading with him to take it. Harsan finds himself surrounded by red fire and confronted by a colossal creature that proclaims itself as his spawn. The creature reveals that Harsan's true purpose is to cleanse the land of the undead, particularly Vampyr. Fey experiences a serene dream, swimming in a vast pool, bathed in warm sunlight. Meanwhile, Ember is awakened in Elysium by Jamie, finding solace in the embrace of her true identity.

The following morning, Ireena rouses everyone from their slumber, and they encounter a man named Simon Von Ivanov, mounted on a horse. Curiously, Zilveren is seen eating dirt, perhaps in an attempt to comprehend his unsettling dream. Simon, a tax collector, expresses his disdain for Strahd and imparts information about the upcoming Festival of the Blazing Sun in Vallaki. He warns them of the town's peculiar laws, advising them to maintain a cheerful facade and avoid direct mention of Strahd, referring to him only as "The Devil." With this knowledge in hand, the group eagerly prepares to depart, propelled by their desire to face the challenges that await them in Vallaki. Notably, Simon pulls Ember aside and offers assistance in fighting off Strahd's servants, to which Ember shockingly agrees.

As they set their sights on Vallaki, they discuss the presence of puppet shows and the notable buildings within the town, such as Baron's Manor, the inn, and the church. Excitement and trepidation intertwine as they continue their journey, eager to unravel the mysteries of this strange and dangerous land.

## Session Six: The Village of Vallaki

Simon departs, leaving a lingering impression of his kindness. An insight check is made to understand why Zilveren was eating dirt. As it turns out, the exact spot where Fey's pie remained had caught his attention. The state of the pies becomes a cause for concern among the group.

Ember decides to investigate the pie, discovering it to be imbued with illusion magic. Ember delves deeper into her research, recognizing that consuming the pie is an effective means of injecting residual magic. Ireena volunteers to hold the pie, triggering a heated debate on whether they should return to the windmill or proceed to Vallaki with haste.

Ember and Fey engage in a discussion about detoxing from these addictive pies versus reaching Vallaki swiftly. Meanwhile, Zilveren and Harsan express their deep distrust of Ember. Unfortunately, some members of the group fail their Constitution saving throws. Harsan takes matters into his own hands, subjecting the pie to his breath weapon. The smell of burning flesh fills the air, and Fey and Zilveren make a horrifying realization: a child had been baked into the pie. Overwhelmed with grief, Fey experiences a breakdown, while Zilveren is reminded of the tragic loss of his students when his tinker hall burned down.

They recall that Granny is selling these pies throughout Barovia, prompting them to swiftly inform Ismark. Their primary objective is to ensure Ireena's safety in Vallaki before addressing the issue of the pie sellers at the windmill. The group finally arrives at Vallaki, greeted by the grim sight of dire wolf heads adorning the front gates. A gatekeeper acquaints them with the laws of Vallaki, emphasizing its reputation as the safest place in Barovia, believed to be untouchable by Strahd.

The laws dictate that one must always maintain a cheerful demeanor and refrain from uttering Strahd's name, as breaking these rules invites dire consequences. Furthermore, they are required to surrender their weapons upon entry, much to their dismay. Inside Vallaki, they encounter a colorful wagon housing a man named Rictavio, who has gained favor with the baron for his contributions to the festival. Rictavio possesses silver hair, pointy ears, and a tiger companion, piquing Fey's interest.

The group observes a mansion, an inn, and a less well-kept second mansion. They also spot a large stockyard and various shops. Ireena suggests meeting with the baron the following morning, emphasizing the importance of appearing presentable according to Vallaki's rules. Fey pretends to have a limp, while Ember insists on venturing off alone to gather more information about illusion magic.

Ember's solo exploration leads her to encounter a guard whom she cautiously questions about magic, subtly implicating Simon. However, her actions backfire, and she is swiftly apprehended. A skill challenge ensues as the guard spots Jasper, and panic ensues as the cry of "THE DEVIL! HE WALKS AMONG US!" echoes through the streets.

The remaining group members seek refuge at the Blue Water Inn, where they meet the Martikov family, with Danica serving as the bartender. The couple's two adorable sons skillfully promote their establishment, capturing the attention of the group. The barkeep shares rumors circulating in the town, including the disappearance of a regular patron who had mentioned a lucky fishing charm. Another rumor circulates regarding the arrest of a shoemaker and the subsequent burning of his house for resisting the baron's men.

The barkeep, Danica, is continuously reminded by her sons to keep her feet off the tables and clothing out of the soup. Further rumors involve the Vistani, who are on a mysterious search, and the delay in wine deliveries from the Wizards of Wine winery, which could be the last winery in Barovia. Cautionary advice is given to steer clear of the baron's men, as they carry out strict orders in the name of Lathander, with Captain Izek leading their ranks.

Ember finally rejoins the group, having skillfully escaped the clutches of the guards. However, her attempt to open Rictavio's locked wagon ends in a disastrous natural one roll, further aggravating the situation. Intriguingly, Fey enjoys a bath and finds herself reminded of a dream she had, reflecting on a verse from the Book of Lathander about the spreading light. She becomes determined to find a similar pool in her quest.

Returning to Rictavio, the group discovers the enigmatic wonders of his carnival and learns of his plans to unveil a second wagon. Ember, on the other hand, foolishly attempts to steal from him right under his nose.

## Session Seven: Tensions in Vallaki

In the tavern, rumors circulate about trouble at the Wizards of Wine Winery, where wine shipments have suddenly ceased. Our party, perhaps unknowingly, consumed the last of the wine at Danica's tavern. The town drunkard has also gone missing, having headed north some time ago.

Ember finds herself in a tense situation with Rictavio, trying desperately to talk her way out of being apprehended by the guards. She attempts to use various excuses, even offering a major secret in exchange for avoiding punishment. But then, she drops a bombshell revelation about reincarnation. Surprisingly, Rictavio manages to call off the guards, but warns Ember to be careful as she is wanted.

During their conversation, Rictavio and Ember interrogate each other. Ember confesses her desire to escape Barovia, while Rictavio advises her to treat people with respect, especially in Vallaki. Ember reveals her apathy towards most things, feeling trapped in an endless cycle of death and waking up in the same miserable world. Miraculously, she manages to escape without being arrested.

Fey and Ember have a conversation, discussing their recent experiences and the disturbing dreams they had.

Fey recounts a haunting dream she had, where she discovers Ember missing from her room and finds a child-shaped figure under the bed covers. Sinister music plays in the background, and the voice of Rahadin, her mentor, urges her to eat. Fey feels overwhelmed by the consequences of her actions--eating pies baked with children--and questions her morality in the eyes of Lathander.

Harsan experiences a dream where the voice of a dragon returns, questioning his loyalty to Lathander and suggesting that he has a greater purpose. The voice speaks of ruling the land and mentions a powerful being named Ashardalon the Great. Harsan insists that he doesn't desire power, but the voice claims power is his birthright.

Fey and Ember meet up to proceed to the wagon. They encounter Brom and Bray, Danica's adorable sons, who bring them bread and cheese. Meanwhile, Ireena and Fey have a conversation about staying safe and working together to improve Barovia.

Zilveren sits with two burly men in the tavern, Szoldar Szoldarovich and Yevgeni Krushkin, who hunt and kill wolves. They offer to be Zilveren's guides for a fee, mentioning their regular visits to the tavern. Zilveren inquires about werewolves.

The group heads to the wagon, where Fey meets Rictavio. They are introduced to Piccolo, Rictavio's monkey, and Fey shares her prophecy with Rictavio, believing that he is part of it. She mentions the card reading from Madame Eva, which spoke of a colorful wagon and a man who would have what she seeks. Rictavio asks if he is more than he seems, and Fey explains her goals and desires to him. Rictavio advises her to be patient in finding her purpose and tells her about a mysterious tome in a tower that might hold the information she seeks.

Meanwhile, the rest of the group heads towards the Baron with Ireena. They notice flyers advertising the festival and learn about the strict rules and consequences enforced by the guards. They visit the toy shop, where they meet Blinsky, a peculiar man who speaks in rhymes. Blinsky reveals that he has been commissioned to create an Ireena doll once a month by Izek Strazni, who threatens to burn down his house if he refuses. They find a doll resembling Ireena and are disturbed by the stalker-like nature of the commission.

As they continue their journey, Zilveren sends a message to Ember, warning her to lay low as she is wanted by the authorities. Back at the wagon, Fey casts Detect Evil and Good but finds nothing. Rictavio, pressed about his backstory, claims that he is from Barovavich, a town that Ember has never heard of. They discuss the appearance of mysterious weapons and a tower with a secret password. Rictavio implies that they should join him at that tower to learn more.

## Session Eight: The Vistani of Vallaki

Jasper excitedly shares the knowledge he has gained from the tiger. As the tiger explains it, the tower is located to the West of Vallaki. Rictavio ventures there and discovers a series of runes. Uttering the word "KAZAN," the runes transform, granting him access. With a flourish of his hands, Rictavio conjures weapons, showcasing his magical prowess.

Ember, unfortunately, has no recollection of the significance of Kazan.

Meanwhile, Fey and Ember set out to find a notary and eventually succeed. To their surprise, they encounter a man who appears utterly devoid of personality or soul. Something is clearly amiss with this individual, as he strangely declares, "It is a very good day for smiles."

Seizing the opportunity, Fey sends a letter to Ismark, assuring him that everything is fine and they have reached their intended destination. She also provides a word of warning about a stone windmill between their location and Barovia. She explains that the women residing there are selling pies made from the flesh of children, causing people to develop cravings for their products. Fey urges Ismark to send guards to investigate and not to trust the pie-selling granny. The letter is signed with love, "XO - Fey."

As they continue their journey, they unexpectedly encounter Captain of the Guard Izek Strazni, infamous for burning things and commissioning dolls resembling Ireena. He advises them to remember to smile and keep an eye out for a short blond girl (Ember). Employing their charm and wits, the group manages to defuse any potential altercation and swiftly makes their way to the baron's house to reunite with the rest of the party.

In another part of the land, Ireena's group makes their way to the Vistani camp after a visit to the toy store. Their objective is to deliver a special gift to Arabelle from Aunt Eliza. Surprisingly, they face no opposition from the guards, but a sudden "HALT" catches their attention. The person uttering it resembles Rahadin, but upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that it is not him. The dusk elf, Galan, bears a striking resemblance to Rahadin and engages Harsan in conversation.

Galan proves to be quite charismatic and reveals that he is a guard of the Vistani camp. He offers to escort the group to meet Luvash, the camp's leader. As they converse, an uneasy feeling settles upon them.

The encounter takes an unexpected turn as they hear the cracking of a whip and the cries of a man. A scene unfolds before them, with numerous people sprawled on the ground, unconscious. A young man named Alexi is being whipped, and the group watches in shock.

The imposing figure of Luvash turns around upon their arrival. Luvash presumes that Harsan and Zilveren have news regarding his daughter, prompting confusion among the group. Sensing Luvash's disappointment, they offer him the monkey toy, but his reaction seems less than pleased, almost stifling a sob.

Zilveren inquires about Arabelle's whereabouts, and the blame falls upon Alexi for losing her. As punishment, Alexi is to pay the blood price. It is revealed that Arabelle's uncle is Arrigal, Luvash's brother, who leads the party away. They engage in discussions about Rahadin, referred to as the black spider, expressing astonishment at surviving their encounter with him. Luvash contemplates the possibility that the group may be the ones they need. Arabelle might have sneaked into Vailaki to play with the town's children and witness the festival lights. They speculate about allowing children freedom and exploration, yet Fey voices her concerns, vehemently opposing the idea of exposing a special child to a festival that thrives on children's presence.

The conversation shifts to matters of punishment and justice, with Luvash emphasizing the importance of clear consequences. Once Alexi's blood is spilled, no lingering bad blood should remain. As a gesture, they receive a necklace recognizable to Arabelle.

The discussion turns to Madame Eva. There are rumors that she uses dark magic to preserve her appearance, but some question the veracity of such claims. Luvash's distrust toward Madam Eveastems from her desire to see the Vistani camps integrate, a notion Arrigal does not support. They raise their glasses and make toasts before bidding farewell to the camp. Ireena ponders the dusk elf encounter, recalling something Madame Eva had mentioned to her, though she decides to leave it for another time.

Meanwhile, Fey and Ember arrive at the baron's mansion, firmly believing that Harsan, Zilveren, and Ireena have already arrived. Fey ventures inside to confirm their presence while Ember patiently waits outside. She is greeted by a maid and attempts to ascertain if their companions have indeed visited. Initially misunderstanding Fey's intentions, the maid eventually comprehends the situation and informs her that their group has not yet arrived. Fey decides to wait for their arrival and engages in conversation with the maid, who mentions the Festival of the Blazing Sun. In the absence of natural sunlight in Barovia/Vallaki, the townsfolk are attempting to create their own sun.

Fey relays this information to Ember, who suggests utilizing the sun balls provided by Zilveren. Eager to explore, Ember and Fey embark on an investigation of the mansion while awaiting the arrival of their companions.

Finally, the group reunites and enters the Baron's Mansion, where they encounter Linda, the maid, once again. They partake in a modest meal, during which Zilveren requests some dwarf weed for a smoke. They disclose Ireena's identity to Linda, who offers her a rather awkward greeting. Harsan notices gallows toys for children at the toy store.

The baron--Vargas Vallakovich--appears somewhat insecure, adorned in opulent robes, and accompanied by his two dogs. Jasper, filled with disdain, impulsively jumps out of the window. Despite this, the baron remains cheerful and escorts the group to a large table. They are introduced to Lydia Petrova, the baron's wife.

Fey brings up the topic of the women selling meat pies, prompting a ban on all pies within the mansion. Anyone caught making a pie will spend a week in the stocks. The baron expresses concern over two missing servants and the potential consequences of their absence during the festival. Suspicions fall upon the Wachters, an old and influential family in town, with Fiona, the matriarch, suspected of kidnapping the servants. The group agrees to investigate the Wachters to help the baron retrieve his missing staff members.

In a display of goodwill, they offer one of the sun balls to the baron and his wife, who initially regard it with caution. Fiona then proposes playing some music in another room. As Harsan and Ember leave to search for Jasper, engaging in their usual banter, the rest of the group prepares for the unfolding tasks.

Finally, a decision is made for Ireena to stay with the baron, keeping her ears open for any pertinent information that might come their way.

## Session Nine: The Orphanage of Vallaki

Jasper informs Ember about the mysterious blue lights flickering on the top floor of the Baron's Mansion. He suggests that she investigates it. Ember shares this information with Harsan, and they both realize they haven't encountered any other magic users in this area, except for Rictavio.

Fey discusses Izek, Rictavio, and the information regarding the tome and the tower with Zilveren. Zilveren updates Fey about Arabelle and how he and Harsan agreed to find her for the Vistani.

Returning to the Blue Water Inn, we witness a destitute-looking man being thrown out. Clearly inebriated, his bloated fingers are evident. The innkeeper repeatedly reprimands the man for requesting wine when they're already out. The man's name is Bluto Krogeroff, known for trading fish from Lake Zarovich in exchange for wine.

Fey expresses her desire to locate the missing child from the orphanage, which is situated southeast on Zilveren's map. The headmistress of the orphanage, Claudia Belasco, is introduced, along with Milivoj, the graveyard's young grave digger.

Brom and Bray, who know Arabelle, inform us that they haven't seen her for the past few days. As a token of appreciation for their information, each boy receives a gold coin.

We collectively decide to visit the orphanage and search for Arabelle. While Harsan and Ember keep watch outside, Fey and Zilveren knock on the door. We encounter the shrewd headmistress (whom the children call "Miss Witch") but manage to persuade her to allow us inside. None of the children appear to be Vistani, and we attempt to have Jasper peek through some windows.

To our dismay, Cedric, one of the orphans, has been killed; his body remains somewhere within the orphanage. The headmistress, Miss Witch, declines Fey's offer to assist with the burial, entrusting the task solely to Milivoj, who is currently unwell.

We reconvene outside to discuss our next course of action. Arabelle has been missing for three days. Surprisingly, the headmistress returns outside and questions why we're still lingering. Fey inquires about Milivoj's whereabouts, and Miss Witch reveals that he is inside. She invites Fey and Harsan back inside to meet him and see if anything can be done about his illness. We bring Jasper along for emotional support.

Zilveren decides to return to the inn to gather more information about Bluto, the intoxicated fisherman residing in the town center.

Back at the orphanage, we are led through a quieted area where the children reside. Milivoj appears to be in poor condition, having been affected by some form of magical attack. Miss Witch found a locket on Cedric's body but has no knowledge of its origin. Milivoj, delirious, believes Harsan to be Fitzak, his hero from a storybook.

Ember overhears two girls discussing Harsan and how much he resembles Fitzak, one of the Shield of Wings. They mention a troubled kid named Felix, who exhibits a disturbing obsession with Harsan. Additionally, a kitchen knife has gone missing.

Zilveren contemplates the mystery of the missing children and tries to get his bearings. He heads toward the town square and the docks, stumbling upon a ramshackle hovel. Adjacent to it, he notices a cluster of sickly-looking flowers. Zilveren knocks on the door, which swings open, revealing a cheerful person named Kammy, a florist whose flowers will be featured at the festival of the blazing sun. Zilveren inquires about Bluto's whereabouts and discovers that he has found a new good luck charm to aid him in his fishing endeavors. Unfortunately, Bluto's wife, Vanessa, passed away a month ago. Zilveren mentions a cart outside Bluto's house where the coffin maker was present, and Vanessa was buried. Kammy playfully asks if Zilveren has a date for the festival, expressing her shyness in a rather straightforward manner.

Returning to the orphanage, we come across the mentioned locket. It bears an X and an inscription in a language unfamiliar to us, resembling infernal but actually being celestial. The inscription reads: "Hidden, gaze, darkness."

Felix, an orphane, exhibits an unsettling lack of emotion concerning Cedric's death. Harsan confronts Felix about the locket, and Felix comments on its beauty. It is revealed that his parents suffered a far worse fate when they were brutally murdered. As he describes it, a lady with white hair gave him the locket. Her name was FISK--the same name as one of the Shield of Wings. He told her that his parents would not let him have any sweets. She said she could do something about that--and she made him kill his own parents. Suddenly, the presence of a fiend is sensed in the room, alarming us all. Felix demands the locket, and ominous words are uttered: "I have seen the shadows of the great powers moving through the dark seas. Your soul is nothing."

Combat ensues, with desperate attempts to banish the fiend. However, we can't be certain if it was truly defeated as it seemingly fades into Felix's shadow, leaving no trace of its demise. The children, who have been silently observing, now fix their gazes upon us.

Milivoj, exhausted from his efforts to open the door and rescue the children, collapses. Zilveren believes he has a remedy to help Milivoj recover.

Fey detects a desecrated presence upstairs, leading us to discover infernal runes carved into each bedpost. In the attic, we find a doll intricately carved with a kitchen knife that had gone missing. All beds have these runes, except for one. Furthermore, the second-floor hallway showcases a broken window boarded up from the inside, bearing scratches as if someone was trying to avoid being pushed out. Fey takes the time to scratch out all the runes, nullifying their effects.

Ember deduces that the demon was sealed within the locket using celestial magic, and it no longer appears to pose a threat.

Zilveren inquires about Milivoj's current state. Miss Witch apologizes for her initial mistrust. Surprisingly, she reveals that the orphanage relies on donations, and sometimes Fiona Wachter, known for her contributions, offers her support.

Harsan goes to check on Zilveren and discovers that Milivoj still perceives him as Fitzak. Thankfully, Milivoj's condition seems to have improved. He expresses a desire to confess something to Harsan. Milivoj admits to falsely claiming his back wages as the source of his income and reveals that he sold something that did not belong to him—specifically, the bones of St. Andral, which he sold to the coffin maker named Henrik. However, the bones were intended for someone else--a woman whose identity remains unknown.

## Session Ten: Wachterhaus

Everyone is desperate to find Arabelle, but Ember's primary concern lies with the mysterious fiend attached to the locket. The celestial connection to the fiend adds to the growing worry--are there celestials in Barovia?

There are several pressing questions that Fey, Ember, and Zilveren ask the children at the orphanage:

* How did Cedric die? They learn that his body was discovered with broken bones, glass in his body, and a snapped neck, suggesting he was pushed out of the second-story window with the scratches.
* Where is Arabelle? Did anyone see her with anyone? The children can't provide a clear answer and assume she's with her family, but no one mentions the Vistani.
* Do they know anything about a lady named Fisk? No--only Felix. Felix is asked to describe Fisk's appearance, and he provides a detailed description. Felix explains that Fisk gave him the locket and describes her as ethereally beautiful. He obtained the locket while living in a town southeast of Vallaki and is traumatized.
* Has Bluto been seen near the orphanage? The Headmistress confirms his presence and mentions shooing him away with a broom. His visits increased in frequency about a week ago, with the last sighting three days prior.
* The Headmistress shares information about the Wachters, particularly Fiona Wachter, who was beloved at the orphanage. Fiona's husband passed away, and she has a shy daughter and two sons who frequent the Blue Water Inn.
* Milivoj describes the sensation of having his soul sucked out and feeling like something clawed at his insides. However, he now feels relieved, as if a weight has been lifted.
* Fey informs Milivoj about the fiend and its connection to the locket. She assures him that he is not being punished by a god but by a malicious individual. Milivoj expresses his intent to do good.
* The Headmistress reveals that she studied the occult to prepare for such situations. Fey bids farewell to Felix and tells him to reach out if he needs help.

Back at the tavern, the group plans their next moves. They decide to interrogate the drunk fisherman, Bluto, at the lake about Arabelle and then visit the Wachters.

As they approach the northern edge of Lake Zarovich, they see row boats, and Bluto is in one, tossing a small sack into the water. They quickly jump into boats and rush towards the sinking sack. Harsan intimidates Bluto, who claims the sack is his lucky charm belonging to the lake. Ember dives into the water and uses her magic to grab the sack, saving it from sinking. However, Bluto refuses to reveal its contents and attempts to swim away. Fey commands him to return to the boat, and Ember and Harsan rescue her from drowning. Inside the sack, they find Arabelle's waterlogged body. Ember connects to her mind and witnesses flashes of her life. She also probes into Bluto's addled mind, where she learns of his feelings of abandonment, despondency, and obsession with righting the wrongs of his life by making sacrifices to the old gods of Barovia--the "Three Fanes."

The group brings Arabelle back to her family, where Luvash expresses gratitude and Arrigal flirts with Fey.

Arabelle briefly awakens and speaks in a deep voice, hinting that the group has a purpose. She then falls unconscious. Arrigal curses Bluto, and they all rest and enjoy drinks. Ember learns that Arabelle sometimes uses her foresight voice to get what she wants. They also discover that this group of Vistani is forbidden from interacting with the other Vistani camp due to Madame Eva, under Strahd's orders.

The party splits up, with Fey, Zilveren, and Harsan visiting Izek to retrieve their weapons by mentioning their mission from the Baron. Ember, on the other hand, visits the church in search of answers to her tarot card reading. She encounters a sermon and notices a woman with long white hair praying for someone named Udo to return. Ember then explores the church and finds a trapdoor leading to a cellar, but decides against entering after Jasper is unable to break in surreptiously.

After reuniting, they proceed to the Wachter's house, an old and dilapidated building. Fiona Wachter greets them and offers tea, quickly bombarding them with questions. She knows Harsan's dragonborn nature, and her servant, Magda, fetches a lantern for their descent downstairs. Fiona warns them to avoid startling her daughter, Stella. Fiona explains her desire to see the Baron dead, expressing dissatisfaction with his leadership and his cruel son, Victor. She had hoped that her daughter's engagement to Victor would influence him positively, but Stella became lovesick and eventually mad.

Fiona leads them to witness the gaunt, chained woman in the room--Stella.

## Session Eleven: The Coffin-Maker's Shop

Stella's daughter acts like a cat. Victor, the son of the Baron, must have done something to her. Fiona reminds us of the lights Ember saw in the Baron's upper window. Stella's mind has been irreparably warped. She is now imitating the behavior of a maddened cat. A greater restoration spell might help her. Lady Fiona is pleading for our assistance. We must stop the Baron before his son subjects others to the same fate as Stella.

Surprisingly, Fiona met Strahd when she was a young girl! She actually believes that Strahd is more civilized than the Baron--according to her, he would never do this to her daughter. Fiona speaks of ruling the city better than the Baron and even suggests opening up dialogue with Strahd. According to her, the Baron surrounds himself with yes-men, while she believes that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.

Zilveren asks Fiona about Izek. She says as long as Izek is alive and loyal to the Baron, he will continue to be a tyrant. Harsan notices a slightly hidden door, and Ember starts knocking on it. The maid informs them that it leads to private quarters and goes to get the sons. Harsan tries to guide Ember into the door but ends up accidentally pushing her inside. However, Ember can't find a latch anywhere. She attempts to read Stella's thoughts but triggers a negative reaction, causing Stella to lunge. Fortunately, she is restrained by the chains, and Fiona begins singing to calm her down.

We leave the Wachter's house and head to the coffin maker's shop. Inside, we meet Henrik Van Der Voort, who expresses sympathy for our deceased cat. He mentions being visited six weeks ago by a well-dressed dark-skinned woman named Ludmilla Vilisevic. She wanted to sell him the bones of St. Andral and sought his assistance. We believe this must be an ally of Fisk. Henrik gives us the bones and shows us the gold Ludmilla Vilisevic gave him, which amounts to 12 gold and 30 silver. He also informs us that he has a servant of Strahd residing upstairs.

Fey senses that the bones have Abjuration magic, indicating that they are being protected. Additionally, she detects the presence of an undead creature in a box in the attic. To their shock, it turns out to be not one, but six vampires!

Combat ensues, with Ember using her radiant magic to illuminate the room and turn the tide of battle. However, she becomes the primary target of the vampires and gets drained of her life force. Fey invokes her divine power and manages to bring Ember back from the brink of death, but Ember's defenses are severely compromised. Harsan tries to bolster her defenses and attacks with his greatsword, but his strikes are not as effective as he had hoped.

Both Fey and Harsan find themselves grappled by the vampires, unable to break free. One of the vampires steals the bones of St. Andral, allowing all of them to regain their strength. Ember tries to reason with the vampires and convince them to drop the bones. In a desperate move to save her own life, Ember throws herself out of the window. Fey and Harsan, on the verge of death, share their final thoughts--

Now the focus shifts to Zilveren, who goes to find Ireena. He encounters Linda, the maid, who lets him into the lounge. Izek, as expected, is also present and tries to dissuade Zilveren from seeing Ireena, claiming that she needs rest and shouldn't be disturbed. Izek persistently insists that Zilveren leave and go to sleep. The conversation leads nowhere, and Zilveren is escorted out by Izek.

Returning to Ember's perspective, she screams out a series of trigger words on the street, including "Strahd" and "Devil," attracting the attention of Simon, who rushes to her aid. Ember informs him that there are vampires upstairs, attacking her friends and draining their life. Simon quickly heads to the Baron's house for help. Ember attempts to fashion wooden stakes but eventually gives up.

Simon finds Zilveren and informs him of the dire situation. Three guards accompany them as they rush to the room where the vampires were last seen.

Ember and Zilveren reunite, and Zilveren tries to inquire about what happened. Ember runs up the stairs without saying a word. When she reaches the room, she finds it empty, with the windows shattered. The bones are gone as well. Fey and Harsan are nowhere to be found, and the guards remain silent about the events.

*In Fey's muddled consciousness, she experiences darkness and hears a voice resembling gravel and cobwebs. It is the Corpse Star speaking to her. The entity knows that Fey desires to live and yearns for power. It offers her dominion over death. Fey hesitates, unsure of the implications, but contemplates whether she can wield this power for the greater good. Will she still serve the light even while enveloped in darkness? It becomes a choice between saying yes or facing death. Ultimately, Fey agrees and is shown a sea of countless souls, all looking up to her.*

## Session Twelve (A): Vallaki Ablaze

Ember, battered and bruised, stands alongside three shaken guards. Zilveren, having finished two Sol Breve, hurries upstairs to join them. The signs of the fierce conflict are evident to all. Through his perceptive instincts, Zilveren pieces together the events that transpired.

The guards, still reeling from the encounter, issue orders for the city to be placed on lockdown before hastily departing. Ember and Zilveren discuss the situation, their attention drawn to the window as they try to determine the direction taken by the vampire spawn. Ember discerns that one of them is heading east, while the others appear to be making their way west, possibly towards the desecration of the sacred ground at the church.

Now faced with a crucial choice, the ragtag group must decide whether to pursue the spawn to the east or west. The eastern part of the city is consumed by flames, with fire rapidly spreading. Eyeing Ember with concern, Zilveren offers her a healing potion from Rahadin, hoping to restore her health. However, upon consuming the potion, it becomes apparent that it is not enough to overcome the necrotic damage Ember has suffered. Despite her weakened state, Ember remains determined to track down the spawn and uncover the fate of her companions.

Ember and Zilveren opt to head west. As they traverse the city, Ember skillfully maneuvers through the shadows, stealthily making her way with urgency. Meanwhile, Zilveren, his dwarf legs carrying him swiftly, runs alongside, undeterred. Their path leads them to an encounter with Izek and a group of eight guards. While Ember remains hidden, Zilveren engages in conversation with Izek, discussing the spawn and the impending hunt. Izek eventually accepts Zilveren's assistance, and the newly formed group sets off towards the church.

Notably, Zilveren employs a slight-of-hand maneuver to provide Ember with a vial of resistance, aware of its purpose and its potential use in a confrontation. Arriving at the church, Ember attempts a stealthy entry into the side room with the broken trapdoor. Unfortunately, her efforts result in a commotion, catching the attention of Izek and the guards who proceed to investigate. Inside the church, Zilveren encounters an elderly woman and the father. While approaching the father, Zilveren falls victim to a surprise attack from the woman, who promptly vanishes. This is Fisk--and Ludmilla. She's a shape-changer.

Now wounded by the unexpected strike from Fisk, Zilveren manages to utilize detect magic to locate her hiding spot. The woman emanates a potent blend of different magical energies, causing a stir of concern. Meanwhile, Ember finds herself in the side room, the one housing the trapdoor leading to the basement containing the saints' bones. The guards witness her leap into the room, raising suspicions of criminal activity. Four guards swiftly enter, positioning themselves in close proximity to Ember.

In a stunning turn of events, Ember employs a remarkable feat of magic, enabling her to enter the trapdoor. The situation takes a dramatic twist as FIisk summons the vampire spawn and mistakes Izek for a foe, launching an attack against him. Ember is underground, below the chruch.

Seizing the opportunity, Zilveren employs a Sol Berve, unleashing its power to create a burst of light. Sunlight floods the scene, causing anguish to Fisk and the vampire spawn. Zilveren and Strix engage in a battle against one of the vampires, although their efforts prove futile. Zilveren directs the guards to subdue the vampire attacking Izek, inadvertently overlooking Fisk's true threat.

Confusion clouds the minds of the guards as they struggle to comprehend the unfolding events. Some feel compelled to retreat, convinced they should leave, while one guard remains fixated on the belief that Ember's Phantasmal Force continues to occupy the side room. In a regrettable turn, one guard follows Ember into the catacombs.

Unyielding to the assault, Izek chooses not to resort to burning down the church but instead wields his battleaxe against the vampires. Amidst the turmoil, Ember successfully eludes her pursuers, expertly concealing herself. Ember devises a plan involving trapping a guard in the tunnel.

The vampire spawn suffer a devastating blow as the Sol Breve continues to inflict radiant damage, causing considerable harm to Fisk. In the midst of the ongoing battle, Fisk attempts to summon a dense fog, seeking to diminish the potency of theight. Zilveren, recognizing the imminent threat, implores Strix for assistance. With a mighty flap of her wings, Strix dispels the fog, restoring the brilliance of the light. Fisk flees, abandoning the two vampire spawn to their gruesome fate—one vanquished by Zilveren's mace, and the other succumbing to the fiery power of the Sol Breve.

With the battle concluded, Zilveren assumes command, directing the remaining soldiers and Izek to make their way outside. Meanwhile, Ember conceals herself near a cluster of concealing boulders. Through a telepathic message, Ember urges Zilveren to distance himself from Izek's presence. Zilveren offers one Sol Brevi to Izek and his group. Zilveren takes a divergent path, eventually reuniting with Ember.

Together, they navigate the deserted streets of the city, eerily empty due to the imposed lockdown. Their shared goal is to rescue Ireena from the clutches of the Baron. With Izek preoccupied, they hope to capitalize on the distraction, making it easier to liberate Ireena and escape the city. However, fate has other plans in store for them.

Upon reaching the Baron's mansion, a raging inferno greets Ember and Zilveren. While Ember searches the surroundings for any signs or clues, attempts to contact Ireena remain unanswered. Their attention is drawn to faint sounds coming from inside the burning structure. Braving the flames, Ember and Zilveren enter the mansion, discovering the maid, Linda, amidst the chaos.

Ember establishes a mental link with Linda, receiving a series of fragmented images. The Baron speaks of advancing the wedding between Ireena and his son, Victor, in the north. A mob led by the Wachter boys instigates chaos and unleashes flames upon the city. Rescuing Linda from the collapsing mansion, Ember and Zilveren confront an uncertain future. Their friends are missing, their destinies unknown, the city ablaze, and Ireena lost amidst the chaos that engulfs them all.

## Session Twelve (B): The Village of Krezk

We resume our tale with Fey, standing before a presence that identifies itself as "The Corpse Star"...

In the aftermath of Fey's agreement to the Corpse Star's terms, she finds herself transformed entirely, her atoms reshaping into something new. The chill of life courses through her veins, leaving her cold and disconnected. She experiences pain, dulled by confusion and anguish. Her mind swirls with unsettling emotions—resentment towards herself and uncertainty about the path she has chosen. She is lost, worried, and afraid.

Amidst her disorientation, Fey hears faint whispers emanating from the surrounding mists. Poems reach her ears, carried by unseen voices. "Three ladies crouched by open flame, one sat weaving, one sat dreaming, one watched the skies for rain." The voice of the Corpse Star resounds, revealing that these three ancient Fanes once governed Barovia. More poems weave their way into Fey's consciousness, spoken by ethereal forces.

The Corpse Star unravels the tale further, sharing that the ladies three—representing the old and Forest, the Mountain Folk, and the Weaver who held dominion over magic and the past—were once a powerful coven ruling over Barovia. The eldest among them was the huntress, commanding nature and death. The middle sister was the Seeker, controlling fate and weather. Fey recognizes her from their previous encounters. The Corpse Star's revelations continue through poetic verses.

"We wish to break this land from the dominion of Vampyr," declares the Corpse Star. "But his tool has bound the ladies three! You are restored with a simple purpose: you will make whole what Vampyr's tool has broken. You will consecrate that which has been defiled. You are returned to destroy Vampyr's hold over Barovia and to restore the ladies three. Remember—restore the Seeker, restore the Huntress, and restore the Weaver. The Swamp, The Forest, and The Mountain."

Overwhelmed by the weight of her newfound mission, Fey seeks confirmation. Is this her quest, her true purpose? The Corpse Star's response resounds with certainty, "This was ALWAYS your purpose." The task is clear—to restore Barovia, to cleanse and eradicate evil. Fey inquires about the whereabouts of the lady she knows, prompting the Corpse Star to expand in size, ominously warning her to complete the quest that has already been bestowed upon her. In that moment, a vision of MADAME EVA flashes before Fey's eyes.

And now, let us shift our focus to Brandon's character, **Raynard Chisholm,** a man who has wandered these lands for some time. The call of wolves has followed him relentlessly. Ray, a seasoned and weathered man in his early 50s, navigates this dark realm, constantly vigilant. Clad in extravagant attire befitting a scoundrel, he keeps to himself, his rapier sheathed and ready. As he seeks to discern the time of day—a task made difficult by the strange golden hue that engulfs the land—the chilling mists take hold of him. The sun has likely set, and he finds himself ill-prepared for this mystifying fog, which feels like a veil between realms. Thoughts of the old man who roped him into this endeavor fill his mind as he hastens his pace, scouring the area for a path, footprints, any sign of orientation. Dire wolf tracks crisscross the land, alongside the marks left by caravans. Alas, Ray's attempt to gain the upper hand on the dire wolves fails, and he finds himself under attack.

The wolves pounce on Raynard, knocking him to the ground. Determined to regain his footing, he musters his strength and takes decisive action. With a swift dash and expertly timed maneuvers, Raynard disengages from the dire wolves, swiftly evading their pursuit. Though the wolves possess superior speed, he pushes himself to the limit, doing his best to outpace and elude them.

Meanwhile, we shift our focus to Fey. Lost and frightened in the dense woods, she desperately scans her surroundings, hoping to catch sight of her companions without drawing unwanted attention. Her heart races as she listens intently to the rustling trees, praying to avoid detection. Suddenly, her ears pick up the unmistakable sound of approaching wolves. Panic sets in as she realizes the danger closing in on her. In a fortuitous twist of fate, Fey stumbles upon Raynard, who finds himself overwhelmed by the ravenous beasts. Noticing his swashbuckler skills, she recognizes a kindred spirit.

Summoning her divine powers, Fey prepares to strike. Instead of her usual radiant light, she reveals a holy symbol, but to her surprise, it remains dormant. Undeterred, she focuses her concentration, and the intricate symbol on her hand, the "S," begins to emit a vibrant blue glow. The glow spreads, resembling icy blue veins branching across her hand, and with a surge of determination, she releases a bolt of gray and blue energy. The magical projectile finds its mark, obliterating one of the wolves. The creature disintegrates into ash, leaving Fey and Raynard a moment to acknowledge each other's presence amidst the chaos.

Raynard seizes the opportunity to swiftly maneuver, utilizing his dashing skills to their fullest extent. Determined to protect Fey, he leads them toward the direction with the most signs of human activity. However, their current location appears to be far from the town of Vallaki, their intended destination.

After some time, they chance upon a town distinguished by a formidable stone wall, flanked by two imposing towers. Its ironwood doors guard its entrance, and the name Krezk adorns this settlement. The vigilant guards stationed there request a task from Fey and Raynard before granting them entry. Their objective is to eliminate a white-furred werewolf known as Whitefang. Descriptions depict her as an aged woman with dark skin, bearing a conspicuous chunk missing from her nose. Whitefang is said to roam the northern region near the Raven River.

In their explorations, Fey and Raynard stumble upon a decomposed corpse, dressed in the same furs worn by the guards. Evidently, the individual met a hasty demise, leaving nothing but silverless remains behind.

Their path leads them to the mouth of a cave, where they formulate a plan to lure out the dire wolves lurking within.

Fey employs her divine abilities, launching two precise guiding bolts and summoning a spiritual weapon to aid her in the battle. Meanwhile, Raynard swiftly seizes an opportunity attack, delivering a lethal blow to one of the wolves. Amidst the fray, Whitefang emerges from the shadows, witnessing Fey's relentless assault on her dire wolves. Fueled by anger, Whitefang spews insults and vile names at Fey, who remains undeterred, continuing her valiant defense alongside Raynard.

However, the tide turns against them as Fey is knocked down, and Raynard falls victim to a vicious bite, infected with werewolf poison. Whitefang, desperate to preserve her life, pleads for them to spare her, offering valuable information about other werewolves in exchange. Realizing the dire situation, Fey and Raynard combine their efforts, ultimately defeating Whitefang. Concerned for Raynard's well-being, Fey attempts to employ her healing magic but finds her powers insufficient. A wispy voice echoes in her mind, urging her to seek more power, and in a moment of revelation, they both level up. Fey gains the ability to cast remove curse, which she promptly utilizes to cure Raynard of lycanthropy.

Having gained entry to Krezk, Fey and Raynard are greeted by the town's humble residents. Livestock roams the streets, though horses are notably absent. The absence of obvious inns or taverns prompts them to follow the guard's guidance, leading them to the Abbey of St. Markovia, where they encounter a guard named Vasili. Vasili leads them to the burgomaster, Dmitri. Intriguingly, Krezk's inhabitants exhibit darker complexions, distinct from Ember's appearance. The guard confirms their unfamiliarity with anyone named Ember hailing from this place.

Vasili recounts the tragic loss of his daughter, Alana, to a werewolf attack, and the abduction of his son into the nearby woods. The burgomaster buried Alana, but her grave was desecrated, her corpse stolen during the night. Furthermore, the guard informs Fey of other graves being disturbed, suggesting a pattern of unsettling events. Although Baron Dimitri expresses doubts about Strahd's involvement, believing him to be uninterested in pilfering corpses, the community sought aid from the Abbey of St. Markovia due to its historical connection with a rebellion led by Saint Markovia against Strahd. Unfortunately, the rebellion was crushed, resulting in the annihilation of Saint Markovia and his followers.

Fey and Raynard are then ushered into the presence of Baron Dimitri and Baroness Anna, where they relay the news of Whitefang's demise. In an attempt to show gratitude, the baron and baroness offer them a meal consisting of chicken. Fey and Raynard feel compelled to clarify that they are neither married nor living in sin, seeking to dispel any misconceptions.

During a private conversation between Raynard and the baron, Raynard learns about the mysterious abbot who arrived centuries ago, seemingly untouched by the passage of time. The abbot frequents a gazebo near a pool, where he imparts wisdom and requests wine for others residing in his domain. Few townspeople venture to the abbey, as eerie sounds of screams and laughter emanate from its vicinity. Additionally, graves being disturbed has become a disturbing occurrence. Raynard learns a key bit of information from the baron—he mentions a Vistani woman who arrived in Krezk about a year ago, causing the abbot to make a rare appearance. The woman displayed both beauty and rudeness, carrying a chip on her shoulder regarding the treatment of Vistani people.

Meanwhile, Fey engages in conversation with Baroness Anna, engaging in small talk while subtly gathering information. Curiosity prompts Fey to inquire about the abbot's interactions with the townsfolk, to which the baroness replies that he keeps to himself, though she encourages her husband to converse with him. Fey, intrigued by the reports of screams and laughter, broaches the topic with the baroness, who mentions the Belviews—an enigmatic family who once sponsored the Church of St. Marcovia. The Belviews' allegiance to Strahd remains a subject of speculation, with some believing they colluded with him, while others argue they did not oppose him vigorously enough. The baroness believes the abbot was sent to assist them. Fey seizes the opportunity to inquire about the desecrated graves, but the baroness can discern no discernible pattern. Unsettled, Fey pretends to eat her soup, though her unconvincing performance betrays her true lack of appetite. Noticing Fey's discomfort, the baroness reaches out in sympathy, and as their hands touch, Fey involuntarily sheds a tear.

Prompted by the baron, Fey and Raynard accompany them to the hot springs, where a grand gazebo stands, adorned with a statue of Saint Markovia. Raynard receives repeated reminders to keep his gaze focused on the gazebo, avoiding any temptation for sinful behavior. As Fey steps into the gazebo, contemplation overtakes her. She yearns to trust others wholeheartedly but feels compelled to maintain a sense of wariness to protect herself. Submerging herself in the pool, memories of a dream flood her mind—a recollection of being in a similar body of water. Her gaze falls upon the statue of Saint Markovia, and as if touched by a divine force, she witnesses a breathtaking transformation. The statue's expression shifts, its features morphing into those of a young man, emanating a striking handsomeness. He introduces himself as Sergei von Zarovich.

## Memorable Quotes

**Halia Thorton**: Discretion is the best part of valor. Make sure you’re not a fool.

**Jasper:** I don’t knooow, cat’s got my tongue. Honestly, honestly you LOVE me, boss.

**Harsan**: It is not where you’re from, but where you are going that matters.

**Jasper:** But to be DIShonest, iT wAs A gOoD tImE!

* **Harsan:** Don’t eat the barkeep.
* **Jasper**: Imma eat him!

**Ireena:** Oh, Ismark, don’t look down at the vegetables. I want to say goodbye to your eyes.

**Granny**: This pie was marked for a handsome dwarf, have you seen one? OH, there he is! Here you go!

* **Fey:** Well, I’ll see you again as the next caravan rolls on by.
* **Madame Eva;** No, you won't.

* **Zilveren:** Did the kitty have a nice dip in the river?
* **Ember:** I will kill you.

**Jasper:** Also boss, also, also, also, also, I’m YOU. So also YOU’RE whining and also YOU’RE a baby!

* **Ember:** Jasper, you stay here and you can attack anything you want. They’re like little scratching posts.
* **Jasper**: Mmmmmm, I’m gonna attack the BIRD ;).

* **Bella:** Aren't you as cute as a peach!
* **Harsan:** I don’t get that very often.

**Harsan:** I guess stay out here and die, then.

**Jasper:** Hello there boss. What’s going on and why are you embarrassing me?

**Zilveren:** Listen, Scales, just because you tower over me DOESN’T MEAN --

**Simon:** I’m worried, you see, because you seem to be held captive here.... and they all seem to hate you.

**Harsan:** GOOD LUCK WITH THE TAX STUFF!

**Harsan:** Fey and I are before anything else servants of Lathander. Asking her to stop that would be like asking you to stop looking for your daughter.

**Everyone to Harsan: A**re you a tiefling?

**Jasper (about Rictavio's tiger Ramses)**: I....LOVE him. I don’t know him, but I LOVE him! I wonder if I can talk to him and then we can be like....besties.

**Zilveren**: Dwarves always hold their liquor. Except when they don’t.

**Brom:** Um um um um um um um um, are you a giant lizard?

**Brom:** Mummy! Can we see a real dragon?

**Rictavio:** Young lady, you belong in the stocks! In fact, some of the villagers that stop by can bring you tomatoes!

**Rictavio:** So the town believes you to be a servant of Strahd and now I’m harboring a fugitive. What a turn of events!

* **Ember:** How trustworthy is he?
* **DM:** Rictavio, describe your face.
* **Rictavio:** Well the most common adjective used to describe my face is trustworthy.

**Rictavio:** I have a guy. I have an elephant guy, I have a chimpanzee guy, I have a turtle guy.

* **Rictavio:** What do you mean by 15 lifetimes?
* **Ember:** What’s behind your panel?

**Ember:** Where are the guards right now?

* **Rictavio:** Maybe in your past 15 lives, you decided to be virtuous, but I see in this life, you’ve chosen to be a criminal.
* **Ember:** Ok, maybe I’ll stop breaking into your panels.
* **Rictavio:** EVERYBODY’s panels...it’s not good to break into anybody’s things.
* **Jasper:** Boss, you finally agreed on something. Save face and let’s go, we have to TALK.

**Harsan:** Oh okay, yeah don’t knock.

**Fey:** Lathander says to know thyself. Know the consequences of thy actions so that thy least effort may bring the greatest and best reward.

**Harsan:** I thought I was the Lathander MAN, but okay.

* **Zilveren**: Not everyone can be a Lathander man. You’re not following yout tenets of faith!
* **Harsan:** It sounds as if we’re being judged on a curve here. And I grant you that I’ve been overzealous in trying to distance ourselves from Ember... but you have to understand that if she puts us in a position that makes me cut her loose in order to protect Fey and protect the group....I WILL cut her loose.

**Jasper**: Boss...what the fuck was that? We weren't looking for something, we were right THERE! In how many cycles have there been a TIGER? A fucking TIGER? That means THIS is the ONE!!!!

**Jasper**: Remember that time when you were still working it out and I was a tabby? And the time before that and I was a GNAT?! That was the WORST! I hated being GNATSPER.

* **Jasper**: Boss, I love you.
* **Ember:** I’m you.
* **Jasper: I** love me, I love us, I love we.

**Szoldar Szoldarovich and Yevgeni Krushkin:** Ve kill wolf for meet and fur.

**Yevgeni Krushkin:** HEY..........good beard.

**Ember:** I wanna talk to Jasper who I imagine is just face down in goat cheese right now.

**Blinsky:** Of course of course! A little bit TMI, but...

* **Harsan:** We’re concerned that this will be poor little Timmy’s last birthday.
* **Blinsky:** I have been moved by your story. If you promise to return to Blinksy and tell him if the today has lifted little Timmy’s spirits?

**Jasper:** First of all, Ramses. TOTAL CHAD.

**Jasper**: Regardless of his spiciness...

**Ember:** So we gotta go to this tower.

* **Jasper:** Something very important first... scratches.
* *Jasper starts dancing*
* **Fey**: Hahahah, he's so delightful!

**Capt. Izek:** Delightful. What a wonderful word.

**Harsan: I** hope they don't show up at the Baron's place. That would be really disappointing.

* **Arrigal:** You are a gnome?
* **Zilveren:** A dwarf.

**Zilveren:** They say that dwarf weed is a gateway weed. It leads to all sorts of other kinds of weed.

**Jasper:** Oh, no, did I do something smart, boss?

**Jasper:** Are we gonna kill a bird? I wanna kill a bird. Oh, what if I killed a bird and brought it to Rameses.

* **Ember:** There was meat at the dinner. That I didn't save for you. Cause I don't love you.
* **Jasper:** I don't know why you say intentionally hurtful things. And I AM you.
* **Ember:** You're right. I don't love myself.
* **Harsan:** Are you talking to me? Cause if so, that's a pretty big breakthrough.

* **Harsan:** Cops are good! Cops are our friends! They maintain the lawful order of any give local. Granted, the lawful order of this local is batshit crazy....
* **Ember:** I don't know if you've been paying attention but the entire province is fucked up.

**Fey:** Okay, I know I said I would stop doing this, but I told the truth.

**Luvash:** My daughter is my life. You have given my back my life.

* **Fiona Wachter:** The Baron seems to think that I am out to get him, to take him down.
* **Fey:** Why would he think that?
* **Fiona:** Well, darling, because I am.

**Jasper:** Boss, I think it thinks that it's me. I think that girl is acting like a cat. So I ask again: what the fuck?

**Fey:** He's a therapy cat...

**Lady Fiona:** I'm not just going to hand over every girl and daughter to him and just say, like, have at it, no.

**Lady Fiona**: The Baron surrounds himself with these yes-men, these foolish men, these... men.

**Lady Fiona:** I have a book club if you have any good recommendations!

**Zilveren:** I don't trust doll-boy as far as you can throw a stone.

* **Ember:** I'm gonna bury him in my backyard under a bush that's beautiful!
* **Jasper:** Yes! AND... it's catnip.

* **Jasper:** UGH! The PAIN of being DEAD!
* **Harsan:** Oh, it's a miracle, the cat's alive.

* **Fey:** You're knocking so much, these days, Ember, I'm so proud of you!
* **Ember:** I AM the one who knocks.

* **Zilveren:** Does she need 20 hours?
* **Izek:** HEHEHE that'd be nice, would it? Us working men can't get 20 hours!

**Izek:** Like I said, the Baron is quite busy. If you need a hand, I happen to be his right one.

**Ember:** There's vampires, they're upstairs, they're drinking my friends, they're eating them, they're up in there, there's vampires, here, up, we gotta go save them, the vampires are killing them, go, up in the coffin maker's place, go kill the vampires!

**Zilveren:** Why?! This can't be happening! Are the gears of fate this cruel?

* **Whitefang:** What’s this little rat doing?
* **Ray**: Just your run of the mill vermin.

**Fey:** Who are you to tell me what I can and cannot do?

* **Fey:** Lately I’ve been feeling like I make everything worse wherever I go.
* **Baronness Anna:** Whatever voice in your head told you all that, you can tell her to fuck off.

**Baronness Anna:** Okay, I gotta go get my idiot.