CoS 01  - Into Barovia.md

CoS 02 - Evil House.md

CoS 03 - Evil House Ending.md

CoS 04 - 0Barovia.md

CoS 05 - On the Road.md

CoS 06 - Wizard of Wines.md

CoS 07 - Battle of the Blights.md

CoS 08 - Abby of Saint Markovia.md

CoS 09 - The Bones of Saint Adral.md

CoS 10 - The Reading.md

CoS 11 - Castle Ravenloft.md

CoS 12 - The Wizard's Tower.md

CoS 13 - Ruins of Berez.md

CoS 14 - Amber Temple.md

CoS 15 - Amber Temple - Giant Statue.md

CoS 16 - Even More Amber Temple.md

CoS 17 - The Amber Golem.md

CoS 18 - Into Castle Ravenloft.md

1. Sessions

Bloodstone, Jasper.md

Carric.md

Kas'asar Xar'Cha.md

Nyx.md

Zedifur.md

2. PCs

Vistani.md

3. Groups

Abbey of Saint Markovia.md

Amber Temple.md

Arasek Stockyards.md

Barovia.md

Berez.md

Blood on the Vine Tavern.md

Blue Water Inn.md

Burgomaster Mansion.md

Castle Ravenloft.md

County of Barovia.md

Krezk.md

Lake Zarovich.md

Luna River.md

Mount Baratok.md

Old Windmill.md

Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders.md

River Ivlis.md

Saint Adral's Church.md

Tser Falls.md

Tser Pool.md

Tsolenka Pass.md

Vallaki.md

Van Richten's Tower.md

Wachterhaus.md

Wizard of Wines.md

4. Locations

Alaundril Zolond.md

Baba Lysaga.md

Baron Brezkov.md

Baron and Baroness of Vallaki.md

Belview, Otto.md

Belview, Zygfrek.md

Bithrath.md

Brom Martikov.md

Davian Martikov.md

Father Donavich.md

Father Lucian Petravich.md

Henrich Stolt.md

Henrik Van der Voort.md

Ireena Kolyana.md

Ismark the Lesser.md

Kolyan Indirovich.md

Lady Fiona Wachter.md

Lief Lipsiege.md

Madame Eva.md

Milivoj the Gravedigger.md

Muriel Vinshaw.md

Nadus Chaulssar.md

Rahadin.md

Rictavio.md

Rose and Thorn.md

Sergei von Zarovich.md

Strahd von Zarovich.md

Szoldar Szoldarovich.md

Tatyana.md

The Abbott.md

Vasilka.md

Vilnius.md

Yevgeni Krishkin.md

5. People

Bones of Saint Adral.md

Festival of the Blazing Sun.md

Holy Symbol of Ravenkind.md

Icon of Ravenloft.md

Mishakal.md

Robe of Useful Things.md

Sunsword.md

Sword of Sunlight.md

Vulkoor.md

Wand of Secrets.md

6. Miscellaneous

7. Notes and Journal.md

Madam Eva Reading.md

Main Quest Note.md

Tome of Strahd.md

7. Notes and Journal

Curse of Strahd.md

content

# Curse of Strahd

Start (official kickoff): 2022-06-17

## PCs & Players:

* *Daymude, Mark*
* *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*
* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* GM: *Roy, Shawn*


Curse of Strahd


# Session 1

**Date:** 2022-06-17
**Location:** 

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

In the dead misty forest. We all meet. Zedifur and Kas bond over divinities. Carric and Kas are wary of each other. Then a fairy lying in the road. 

We establish that the number 3 is the most important.

Continue on the road.

![](https://i.imgur.com/q48QGbK.png)

Perhaps we are not so far from the land of giants. Through the gates is a village. In the distance on the cliffs is a large gothic castle. 

### Barovia

The village is named [Barovia](../4.%20Locations/Barovia.md). This architecture is not familiar. There are two small children, pallid/washed out. 

### Rose & Thorn

![](https://i.imgur.com/mnn5VuZ.png)

After shushing the boy, the girl turns to you and says, "There's a monster in our house!" She then points to a tall brick row house that has seen better days. Its windows are dark. It has a gated portico on the ground floor, and the rusty gate is slightly ajar. The houses on either side are abandoned, their windows and doors boarded up. Names are [Rose and Thorn](../5.%20People/Rose%20and%20Thorn.md)

There is some monster in the house. Come saves us. The mists push us that way. From afar, the house looks dilapidated. As we approach, it appears better. Odd.

Golden windmill on stoneyfield. Odd shield. Panes of stain glass. Portraits of nobility. There are woodland scenes that do not appear as we saw them. The kids hand outside, but Carric sees then fade as the door slams shut. We cannot open the doors. We continue into the house.

There is a longsword over the mantle with a windmill engraved. A number of rooms and a stair up. There are foul creatures weaved in the walls instead of vine motif.

Dining room - Alpine vale painting. Hunting motif. Set up for dining, but no food. Carric rings the servant bell but no answer. Still more underlying motif.

Tidy kitchen. Food and a dumbwaiter. A parlor with a stags head. Three stuffed wolves. A nice den. One cabinet has a few game items. But the other has weapons (crossbows)

### Second Floor

A hallway lined with armor. Portraits of the family, but the youngest does not appear to be loved.

One set of double doors to an office - find an iron key.

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

The conservatory - instruments (harpsichord, harp).

Carric burns some ashes in one place, leaves, comes back and its clean again.

### Third Floor

This floor is dusty and with cobwebs. Stepping forward, the armor animates! Zedifur calls upon  Mikasha, providing us a blue glow of protection. The foul armor misses Kas. Nyx glides up and hover, striking the armor with Eldridic Blast. Carric and Kas engage the armor but both miss. 

Zedifur fires a crossbow and hits with a crit, damaging the armor. The armor does strike a glancing blow to Kas. Nyx misses as he still trying to get the hand of these new powers. Karric and Kas miss.

Zedifur pulls down sacred flame onto the armor. The armor misses Kas. Nyx finishes it with more sacred flame.

Kas catches her breath, recovers.

Looks to be the lord/lady bedroom, dusty. There is a jewelry box with a few items of value.

### For next time

Why is it dusty up here and not the rest of the house?

##### Navigation

\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 02 - Evil House](CoS%2002%20-%20Evil%20House.md)


CoS 01  - Into Barovia


# Session 2 -  Evil House

**Date:** 2022-06-24
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

### Retro scene

Back in the woods with Zedifur catches the scent of death, rotted human flesh.  The foul scent leads you to a human corpse half-buried in the underbrush about fifteen feet from the road. The young man appears to be a commoner. His muddy clothes are torn and raked with claw marks. Crows have been at the body, which is surrounded by paw prints. The man has obviously been dead for several days. He holds a crumpled envelope in one hand.

![](https://i.imgur.com/ShTocBu.png)

Its a red herring - this is trying to throw us off the scent.

### Back to the House

#### Angry Spectral Woman

Exploring the dusty third floor. Kas finds a linen closet and takes some soap. Find another room with stain glass with a forest theme. Perhaps a door to a nursery. Carric opens the door, there is shroud. Behind us, a woman manifest and screams. And she attacks!

![](https://i.imgur.com/iCFbVLN.png)

Zedifur calls upon his goddess to bring down a sacred flame, but it steps aside. She cries about someone taking her baby! She rushes forward to strike at Carric with an icy touch. Kas moves to better position to strike and hits, but a lessened effect. Carric strikes with his quick blades, doing some damage. 

Zedifur again with the sacred flame, but again misses. The woman turns and, being a bitch, her icy touch burning Kas (but Kas wards off some further foul effect). Kas counters with another piercing attack. Carric continues to rend into her. 

Zedifur finally connects with his god, burns her up!

#### Into the Nursery

There is a tightly wrapped baby sided bundle. Carric touches the bundle and whatever was inside collapses into dust. Nothing else in the room.

#### Bedroom

Kas finds a secret door to the attic and weird eyes in the woodwork.

#### Attic

While empty, it appears to have been a living space. One door is locked with a padlock. Kas unlocks.

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

Kas calls Zedifur into see if there is anything to be done with the two bodies. Zedifur picks up the doll, and we see [Rose and Thorn](../5.%20People/Rose%20and%20Thorn.md) materialize. Thorn - "don't touch my toy." We learned they got locked away to protect from the monster (in the basement). But Carric and Zedifur that they are not the same as the ones in the front of the house. Those had "tricky kids" attitude, these are sad.

Rose points to the secret door here in the attic. They direct us to it. Zedifur takes the doll. Rose leaps at Carric and possess him (adds a flaw - In Charge). Zedifur gets Thorn (scared). But they resist them. 

Another room with sheets over stored furniture. Kas finds as chest, there is a sheet with blood. There are bones, its a skeleton of a woman. There is a dress is similar to the spectre. 

Kas, with her fashion sense, this might be the nursemaid. The plot thickens.

**Ding! Level 2!**

Secret door down to the lower levels. Very much a death motif down here. More of a crypt vibe. Very gothic. At a crossroads, we might have found actual crypt. Then there is an antechamber, table and bones scattered about.

Kas does not sense any supernature nearby. But was we look around, a Grick attacks Carric from the top of an alcove.

![](https://i.imgur.com/aeGlLnF.png)

Carric attacks the foul thing, damaging it. Its squishy.  He then deftly moves away. The Grick attacks Carric. It mauls Carric, taking him down. Zenifur calls on [Mishakal](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Mishakal.md) to get Carric back on his feet.  Kas fumbles a bit getting her whip out as she jumps up on the table.

Carric stabs at the foul thing and moves back. The Grick starts to follow but strikes at Kas, rending with its foul tentacle. Zedifur strikes with Guiding Bolt, damage, lighting it up. Kas misses, despite Advantage due to crappy d20s.

Carric pulls out a shortbow to strike the beast. Misses, the grick misses as well. Zedifur calls on Scared Flame, finishes the foul beast. We rest (long).

Continuing, there is a rising sound of chanting. Then 2 creatures claw there way up out of the dirt of the tunnel. Ghouls!

![](https://i.imgur.com/tSbuqwV.png)

Zedifur calls on Mishakal to repel these foul creatures. One flees from the searing light. The other slathers forward. Carric steps aside to ready an action, then attacks the ghoul as it rushed forward to attack the ghoul. A critical hit! Lots of dice. One-shot kill. Kas advances quietly, following the other ghoul. Casts Shield of Faith on herself.

Zedifur follows. Carric does poke his head in another room, interesting stuff.

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

The room has exits in the west and north walls. Chanting can be heard coming from the west.

Then follows. 

Kas rushes forward, striking the ghoul. Zedifur advances and sacred flame. Damage building up on the ghoul. Carric arrives, jumps up on the table and strikes - hits, and kills it.

End of session.

##### Navigation

[CoS 01  - Into Barovia](CoS%2001%20%20-%20Into%20Barovia.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | TBD


CoS 02 - Evil House


# Session 3 - Evil House Ending

**Date:** 2022-07-01
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

### Durst Room

Looking about, we find another living quarters. Carric finds what might be a spellbook. Then screeching, then something materializes and attacks. Two creatures in tattered black robes. Based on the name of the tokens, is the parents - *Gustav and Elisabeth Durst*. Zedifur casts Bane on the foul creatures - Ghasts. They are foul things, reeking of death and and decay (poison). The creatures are not that effective due to the Bane. Nyx sparkle glow Eldritch Blast Gustav.

Zedifur fires off a sacred Flame, but the creature shakes it off. Kas is just not cold hearted enough with this whip. Carric whittles away at Elisabeth. The *Ghasts* are having issues hitting us. Nyx hammers Gustov. 

Zed attacks Gustov, heavy damage. Elisabeth hits Carric, high damage, but avoids paralyzation. Kas misses AGAIN with the whip (a nat 1...). Carric attacks then steps aside. Gustov hits Nyx, avoids the paralysis. Nyx EB for bit damage, but not quite destroyed. 

Zed heals Nyx. Elisabeth trails Carric, drawing an attack from Nyx. Nyz misses. She rips into Carric. Kas switches to her rapier and destroys Elisabeth. Gustov misses, and Nyz nearly fumbles.

Zed goes to help Carric with his lucky rabbits paw (is it some other rabbit?!?!). Kas attempts to Compel Duel with Gustov (saves) and misses yet again with the whip. Carric Nat 20 on death save - stabilizes. Gustov misses again. Nyz hits, finishes him.

Cloak of Protection Phat Loot. Kas Snags.

### Dungeon

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

The room has exits in the west and north walls. Chanting can be heard coming from the west.

Then shadowy creatures materialize and attack!
![](https://i.imgur.com/65zCRC0.png)

Battle! Zed casts Bless. Kas strikes at one for some effect. Nyx casts lightning lure, wounding one. Kas dances about, avoiding strikes by the living darkness.

Carric strikes at one, ripping at its essence. Zed does radiant damage on one. Kas focuses on the same as Carric, further diminishing him. The shadows drain hard this round, hurting Kas and taking down Nyx. Kas is badly hurt and weak.

Carric takes one down. Zed calls down major healing. Kas turns to the one on Nyz and Zed and brings the Smite of Vulkoor, destroying it. Nyz heals since he only had 1 hp. The three remaining *Shadows* continue their attacks, but Kas nimbly dances aside.

Carric steps up and strikes one of the remaining shadows. More Zed Flame but little effect. Kas wears down the one in first, but its still there. Nyx with undefined Sacred Flame damages another. Shadows counter viciously, taking down Kas and nearly turning her into a Shadow. Another takes down Carric.

Carric makes first death saves. Zed pours heal potion down Kas. Kas leaps up and skewers the shadow in front of him. Nyz casts Prot from Eeeevil.

Carric makes second death save. Zed grabs Carrics healing potion to save him. Kas destroys another, leaving one left. Nyx sacred flames the last, but fails. Shadow misses Kas.

Carric back up and strikes at the last Shadow, damaging it (crits on the off hand, but not much damage). Zed sacred flames it, heavy damage. Kas finishes, but collapses due to almost no strength.

Victory!

We get a non-magical orb. 

Note: Zed has blue sacred flame, Nyx is ....

### Reliquary and Chanters

Find all sorts of nasty evil ritual items. Then a chamber with altar. 

Chant - "he is the Ancient, he is the Land"
Carric goes to the dias, that chant goes up in volume - "one must die"

Lorgoth the Decayer, we summon thee - and something raises out of the refuse. A *Shambling Mound*

This thing rises up and strikes Carric. Nearly one-shots him (retcos to not so much). Kas comes over and Smites the creature. Carric tries to counter and crits it, nasty damage. Nyx eldritch blast, continues to take it down. Zed cast Bane, but the creature ignores it.

The Mound attacks Carric again and hits him. Kas finishes him off with another smite. 

We destroyed the monster in the cellar. Quest complete! We flee the house as it starts to collapse and counters. The house is revealed for the pile of offal it really is. 

Back at the crossroads.

##### Navigation

[CoS 02 - Evil House](CoS%2002%20-%20Evil%20House.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 04 - 0Barovia](CoS%2004%20-%200Barovia.md)


CoS 03 - Evil House Ending


# Session 4 - Barovia

**Date:** 2022-07-22
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

![](https://i.imgur.com/ykSkMDY.jpg)

Explore a bit. Learn about [Count Strahd](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md).

### Blood on the Vine

[Blood on the Vine Tavern](../4.%20Locations/Blood%20on%20the%20Vine%20Tavern.md).

* [Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md) says that some of Drow. About 3 weeks ago (away from home village for 3 weeks, explore 1 week before entering the mist) 
* Wants to destroy [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md) and save his sister [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md). She is not at the castle yet, but has been "visited"
* Killed his father.

There is one house with a wailing woman who lost her child.

### Burgomaster Masion

To the [Burgomaster Mansion](../4.%20Locations/Burgomaster%20Mansion.md) house. We will help take the body to the church to do a service them bury. Then we will take the sister to [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md).

### Church

Top a slight rise, against the roots of the pillar stone that supports [Castle Ravenloft](../4.%20Locations/Castle%20Ravenloft.md), stands a gray, sagging edifice of stone and wood. This church has obviously weathered the assaults of evil for centuries on end and is worn and weary. A bell tower rises toward the back, and flickering light shines through holes in the shingled roof. The rafters strain feebly against their load.

The heavy wooden doors of the church are covered with claw marks and scarred by fire.

The doors open to reveal a ten-foot-wide, twenty-foot-long hall leading to a brightly lit chapel. The hall is unlit and reeks of mildew. Four doors, two on each side of the hall, lead to adjacent chambers.

You can see that the chapel is strewn with debris, and you hear a soft voice from within reciting a prayer. Suddenly, the prayer is blotted out by an inhuman scream that rises up from beneath the wooden floor.

The chapel is a shambles, with overturned and broken pews littering the dusty floor. Dozens of candles mounted in candlesticks and candelabras light every dusty corner in a fervent attempt to rid the chapel of shadows. At the far end of the church sits a claw-scarred altar, behind which kneels a priest in soiled vestments. Next to him hangs a long, thick rope that stretches up into the bell tower.

From beneath the chapel floor, you hear a young man's voice cry out, "Father! I'm starving!"

[Father Donavich](../5.%20People/Father%20Donavich.md) - claims his son is now a spawn of Strahd. But the Morninglord has not answered. He had gone up to destroy Strahd and he turned him. A blackrobed wizard from a foreign land that put him up to it (wizard now dead)

Iveena was found new the pillarstone of Ravenloft, no memory of her past as a girl. 

Oh, and spirits of heroes from afar right up and march to Castle at midnight.

Doru, his son.

An eerie green light suffuses the graveyard. From this light emerges a ghostly procession. Wavering images of doughty women toting greatswords, woodwise men with slender bows, dwarves with glittering axes, and archaically dressed mages with beards and strange, pointed hats - all these and more march forth from the graveyard, their numbers growing by the second.

We survive the night, the father to be buried. 

Father offers another location - an Abby in [Krezk](../4.%20Locations/Krezk.md).

##### Navigation

[CoS 03 - Evil House Ending](CoS%2003%20-%20Evil%20House%20Ending.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 05 - On the Road](CoS%2005%20-%20On%20the%20Road.md)


CoS 04 - 0Barovia


# Session 6 - The Wizard of Wines

**Date:** 2022-08-12
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

### Location:  [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md), [Blue Water Inn](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md#blue-water-inn)

Level up! Level 4! No Paul tonight.

A half-elf name [Rictavio](../5.%20People/Rictavio.md) comes down the stairs. [Brom Martikov](../5.%20People/Brom%20Martikov.md), that little cheater, fawns all over him. He introduces himself. He is a bard and likes to tell tales. But he pretty much ignores [Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md) and [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md). Seems kinda nosey to Kas. There are a few others about tonight (9 others). He has not seen my people. From Darkon. He then goes off and tells a boring story.

He has the wagon we saw coming in.
### Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders

Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words "Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders." A heavy padlock secures the back door.

Then 2 men come in together - [Szoldar Szoldarovich](../5.%20People/Szoldar%20Szoldarovich.md) and [Yevgeni Krishkin](../5.%20People/Yevgeni%20Krishkin.md) - hunters.

We talk plans, likely to head out in the morning to the [Abbey of Saint Markovia](../4.%20Locations/Abbey%20of%20Saint%20Markovia.md). Should take us about half a day to get there.

Next day - looks like one small celebration came down, another going up. 

### On the Road

 > 
 > \[!note\] Crossroad
 > The road comes to an X intersection, with branches to the northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast. The lower half of a snapped wooden signpost thrusts upward at an angle near the eastern elbow of the intersection. The top half of the sign, featuring arms pointing in four directions, lies in the weeds nearby.

* NE to Lake Baratok
* NW  to Castle Ravenloft
* SE to 
* SW to [Krezk](../4.%20Locations/Krezk.md) 

Another intersection with a sign to [Wizard of Wines](../4.%20Locations/Wizard%20of%20Wines.md)

### Krezk

 > 
 > \[!info\] Krezk 
 > The road branches north and climbs a rocky escarpment, ending at a gatehouse built into a twenty-foot-high wall of stone reinforced with buttresses every fifty feet or so. The wall encloses a settlement on the side of a snow-dusted mountain spur. Beyond the wall you see the tops of snow-covered pines and thin, white wisps of smoke. The somber toll of a bell comes from a stone abbey that clings to the mountainside high above the settlement. The steady chime is inviting - a welcome change from the deathly silence and oppressive fog to which you have grown accustomed. It's hard to tell at this distance, but there seems to be a switchback road clinging to the cliffs that lead up from the walled settlement to the abbey.

To the gatehouse 

 > 
 > \[!info\] Gatehouse 
 > The air grows colder as you approach the walled settlement. Two square towers with peaked roofs flank a stone archway into which is set a pair of twelve-foot-tall, ironbound wooden doors. Carved into the arch above the doors is a name: Krezk.

The walls that extend from the gatehouse are twenty feet high. Atop the parapet you see four figures wearing fur hats and clutching spears. They watch you nervously.

Not much movement on the walls. A few in russian fur hats. We seek entry to the Abbey, they go get the [Baron Brezkov](../5.%20People/Baron%20Brezkov.md). They will let us in if we get a wagon of wine from the [Wizard of Wines](../4.%20Locations/Wizard%20of%20Wines.md).

### Wizard of Wines

 > 
 > \[!note\] Wizard of Wines 
 > After a half mile, the road becomes a muddy trail that meanders through the woods, descending gradually until the trees part, revealing a mist-shrouded meadow. The trail splits. One branch heads west into the valley, and the other leads south into dark woods. A wooden signpost at the intersection points west and reads, "Vineyard."
 > 
 > A light drizzle begins to fall. Unpainted fences blindly follow the trail, which skirts north of a sprawling vineyard before bending south toward a stately building. The fog takes on ghostly forms as it swirls between the neatly tended rows of grapevines. Here and there, you see rope-handled half-barrels used for hauling grapes. North of the trail is a large stand of trees. A man wearing a dark cloak and cowl stands at the edge of the trees, beckoning you.

Zed notices others - there are nine other in the mist. A bunch of humans in cloaks. [Davian Martikov](../5.%20People/Davian%20Martikov.md) runs the place. Evil driuds attacked. There are three barrels you can have if you get rid of the druids.

**Quest - Kill The Druids**

### Winery

Situated in the midst of the vineyard, the winery is an old, two-story stone building with multiple entrances, thick ivy covering every wall, and iron fencing along its roofline. The trail ends at an open loading dock on the ground floor.

A wooden stable of more recent construction is attached to the east side of the winery, next to the loading dock. West of the winery is a crumbling well and a wooden outhouse.

We go towards the wagon bay, we are attacked by vine-line creatures (*Groots*). Kas calls upon [Vulkoor](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Vulkoor.md) (Shield of Faith) and shoots one with a hand crossbow. We take some shots and set up to defend the wagon. They swarm us. 

As we battle, someone comes out of the building into the wagon bay. Carric somehow manages to hide from them. They cast some power to grant protection (barkskin). Carric sneak attacks him! Hits him with the bonus action attack. Some damage. That drops his Barkskin. 

Ireena is hurt pretty badly as we slowly cut down the Blights. Zed hits with Guilding Bolt on the druid (the man that appeared). Does damage and grants advantage. Carric then guts the druid and closes the door.

We end mid battle! To Be Continued

##### Navigation

[CoS 05 - On the Road](CoS%2005%20-%20On%20the%20Road.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 07 - Battle of the Blights](CoS%2007%20-%20Battle%20of%20the%20Blights.md)


CoS 06 - Wizard of Wines


# Session 5 - On The Road

**Date:** 2022-07-29
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

Nyx and Zed wandering the woods northeast of [Barovia](../4.%20Locations/Barovia.md) looking for Fey.

 > 
 > \[!danger\] An Encounter
 > A gaunt figure with wild hair and bare feet bounds toward you on all fours, wearing a tattered gown of stitched animal skins. You can't tell whether it's a man or a woman. It stops, sniffs the air, and laughs like a lunatic. The ground nearby is crawling with tiny twig monsters.

Narrate them working through the encounter. While trying to chase them off, they kill this odd druid.

Then,
\>\[!danger\]
\>A scarecrow lurches into view. Its sackcloth eyes and rictus are ripe with malevolence, and its gut is stuffed with dead ravens. It has long, rusted knives for claws.

A brutal fight they had to flee from. They go back to Barovia and link up with the real heroes. They try to play it off cool but to not tell us of scarecrows.

We have a map of the [County of Barovia](../4.%20Locations/County%20of%20Barovia.md). We head out. Cross a bridge over the [River Ivlis](../4.%20Locations/River%20Ivlis.md).

 > 
 > \[!example\] Tser Pool Crosswoods 
 > An old wooden gallows creaks in a chill wind that blows down from the high ground to the west. A frayed length of rope dances from its beam. The well-worn road splits here, and a signpost opposite the gallows points off in three directions: BAROVIA VILLAGE to the east, TSER POOL to the northwest, and RAVENLOFT/VALLAKI to the southwest. The northwest fork slants down and disappears into the trees, while the southwest fork clings to an upward slope. Across from the gallows, a low wall, crumbling in places, partially encloses a small plot of graves shrouded in fog.

We avoid the [Tser Pool](../4.%20Locations/Tser%20Pool.md). We start to leave, there is now a body, and Kas sees the below, but the body is hers.

 > 
 > \[!example\] Hanging Body
 > You hear a creaking noise behind you, coming from the gallows. Where there was nothing before now hangs a lifeless, gray body. The breeze turns the hanged figure slowly, so that it can fix its dead eyes upon you.

She cuts the body down, but it dissolves. Onward.

Later, 
\>\[!example\] Skeletal Rider
\>Through the mist comes a skeletal warhorse and rider, both clad in ruined chainmail. The skeletal rider holds up a rusted lantern that sheds no light.

We avoid and it ignores us.
\>\[!example\] Waterfall & Bridge
\>You follow the dirt road as it clings to the side of a mountain and ends before an arching bridge of mold-encrusted stone that spans a natural chasm. Gargoyles cloaked in black moss perch on the corners of the bridge, their frowns weatherworn. On the mountainous side of the bridge, a waterfall spills into a misty pool nearly a thousand feet below. The pool feeds a river that meanders into the fog-shrouded pines that blanket the valley.

 > 
 > \[!example\] Crosswoods to Castle Ravenloft
 > Even here, in the mountains, the forest and the fog are inescapable. Ahead, the dirt road splits in two, widening toward the east. There you see patches of cobblestone, suggesting that the eastern branch was once an important thoroughfare.

Past this is another set of giant gates.

![](https://i.imgur.com/q48QGbK.png)

Bummer, no giants.

We come upon some sort of Fey - a corpse. Carric thinks it looks like Nyx, but Zed does not. Nyx is stunned by it - it was ravaged by animals. But all of us can see this, whereas previously the other did not think the body was Kas.

Kas goes to behead it with her kukri knife, but it dissolves as well. Zed prays.

Approach [Lake Zarovich](../4.%20Locations/Lake%20Zarovich.md) and [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md), while seeing the [Old Windmill](../4.%20Locations/Old%20Windmill.md) on the way (*we do not stop*)

 > 
 > \[!example\] Windmill and [Lake Zarovich](../4.%20Locations/Lake%20Zarovich.md) 
 > The Old Svalich Road transitions here from being a winding path through the Balinok Mountains to a lazy trail that hugs the mountainside as it descends into a fog-filled valley. In the heart of the valley you see a walled town near the shores of a great mountain lake, its waters dark and still. A branch in the road leads west to a promontory, atop which is perched a dilapidated stone windmill, its warped wooden vanes stripped bare.

## Vallaki

Arrive at [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md) 

![](https://i.imgur.com/E7wcJkj.jpg)

We arrive just as the gates are about to close. They have many warnings against wolves. The gate is wrought iron. Kas convinces them to let us in.

There is just more color here. Animals are kept inside. The guards are false nice.
There are some happy folk around, the more happy the more color. Although [Ismark Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md)  and [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md) have color but they are not happy.

### Blue Water Inn

 > 
 > \[!example\] Outside the Inn
 > Gray smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall.

 > 
 > \[!Example\] Inside the Inn
 > Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques.

The bartender is in between in is vibrancy. 

[Brom Martikov](../5.%20People/Brom%20Martikov.md) is the child service. His mother is at the bar talking with the innkeeper. Martikov family.

#### Menu

**Drink**

* Red Dragon Crush 
* Purple Grapemash 3

**Food**

* Beet Soup 
* Purple Grapemash
* Wolf Steak

Red Dragon Crush wine, Wolf steak. Kas is bad with numbers. An Abbott / Costello routine breaks out over the money. 

##### Navigation

[CoS 04 - 0Barovia](CoS%2004%20-%200Barovia.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 06 - Wizard of Wines](CoS%2006%20-%20Wizard%20of%20Wines.md)


CoS 05 - On the Road


# Session 7 - Battle of the Blights

**Date:** 2022-08-19
**Location:** [Wizard of Wines](../4.%20Locations/Wizard%20of%20Wines.md) 

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

### Blight Battle

We pick up in the middle of a fight. [Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md) is taking a beating as we still tear down these *Needle Blights*.  Zedifur notices a winch over the wagon. Tucked up there is another druid. He just seems to be watching. Carric does not him as he hears more activity from inside the brewery. He tries to shut and seal the door. 

While Carric sealed the door, something rips open the door. Something even more plant-like steps through - a *Vine Blight*. There is another behind him. Carric sneak attacks him, cutting him down. Handing in there, Ismark is thinking the blights. 

A couple of people hear the druid on the wench say something in an obscure language in a not nice way, rans off (maybe invisible). One of the Vine Blights extends vines, entangling [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md) but Zed avoids.

The birth of the *Barrel Mimic*.

This wild druid woman steps up and drops some form of boom spell, hitting Kas, Nyx, and Zed. Carric gives her the business (critical hit), killing her. We catch our breath before going in.

### Winery Ground Floor

#### Turret Room

*This turret has a sloping, wooden floor that spirals from the cellar to the upper levels. Scratch marks suggest that barrels are rolled up and down the ramp on a routine basis.*

#### Vat Room

*The rich smell of fermenting wine fills this large, two-story chamber, which is dominated by four enormous wooden casks, each one eight feet wide and twelve feet tall. A wooden staircase in the center of the room climbs to a ten-foot-high wooden balcony that clings to the south wall, which has four windows set into it at balcony level. Stacked against the wall underneath the balcony are old, empty barrels with "The Wizard of Wines" burned into their sides. The balcony climbs another five feet as it continues along the west and east walls, ending at doors leading to the winery's upper level. Underneath these side balconies are several doors, some of which hang open. Beneath the sloping roof stretch thick rafters, upon which scores of ravens have quietly gathered. They watch you with great interest.*

#### Empty Barrel Room & Workshop

*Rows of new barrels fill this room. A narrow stone staircase spirals upward in the southwest corner.*

*Strips of iron and wood lie in neat piles on the floor of this workshop, the walls of which are lined with tools. Two worktables stand against the east wall.*

#### Locked Veranda

Carric picks a padlock.

*Resting on a flagstone veranda are three five-foot-diameter wooden tubs, their insides stained with grape juice. Each tub has a short ladder bolted to its side and a catch basin tucked underneath.*

*At the back of the veranda is a large set of sliding wooden doors as well as a normal-sized wooden door. Stone pillars and arches support the upper floor above.*

#### Broken Side Door

*Bare hooks line the walls of this storage room. Shelves to the south hold several pairs of stained wooden sandals with oversized soles. Both doors to this room hang open. The one to the west is fitted with iron brackets and leads outside into the rain. Lying on the floor next to it is a five-foot-long wooden beam.*

#### West Turret

*This turret contains a stone spiral staircase. Windows in the outer wall allow light to enter.*

#### South Exit

*A dirty window in the south wall allows dim light to enter this room. Wine bottles are manufactured here, as evidenced by the tools lying about, the wooden rack full of freshly blown glass bottles along the south wall, the hearth built into the southwest corner, and the barrel of sand standing next to it. A staircase descends underground, and between it and the rack of bottles stands a barred door.*

### Winery Basement

Down the central staircase.

*Wooden pillars and beams support the ten-foot-high ceiling of this ice-cold cellar, which is split in two by a five-foot-thick brick wall. A thin mist covers the floor. Each half of the cellar features an eight-foot tall wooden partition that doubles as a wine rack. The western rack stands empty, but the eastern one is half filled with wine bottles.*

*Something moves behind the eastern wine rack. Through the holes, you glimpse a half dozen humanoid figures, one with a full rack of antlers. You hear a gravelly voice mutter the words of a spell.*

Nyx casts protection from good/evil on Kas. Kas comes into the room, comes around the rack, and finally hits with her whip. She hits the druid that is chanting in the back. Somehow, Kas gets the count right of the enemies behind the rack and shouts it out. Carric comes around to attack and * Needle Blight*, slaying it. Zeb drops sacred flame to no avail. 

One of the blight shoots needles at Kas. It misses, but another rakes Kas. More missed needles at Kas, as she dances around behind her shield. The druid moves away (but takes another lash from Kas) and drops a spell on Ismark, Ireena, and Zed in a thunder wave. Zed is not braced for it (stunned that Kas is hitting with the whip) and is slammed into a back wall. 

Nyx comes in and blasts one of the blights. Leaning into her Oath of Vengeance, Kas comes around, nimbly dodges a Blight, and strikes down the druid!

 > 
 > \[!quote\]
 > Your foul neutrality ends here!

The blights remain, we whittle them down. Get it? Whittle down plant creatures. Carric gets another critical hit, taking another one out. Zed mops the last one.

We saved most of the bottles! Red Dragon Crush! There are three barrels of purple grape mash number three.

We recover the promised wine shipment. Carric does poke around a bit, more for information. They are the main distributor for the area taverns, add [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md) himself!

The druid that fled is not found. [Davian Martikov](../5.%20People/Davian%20Martikov.md) is appreciative, but tries to have us recover magic seeds.

* One taken long ago
* One by the druids
* One by Baba Yaga

Decline the immediate quest as we must secure Ireena, but we do say we might look into it. Wine is on its way to [Krezk](../4.%20Locations/Krezk.md).

##### Navigation

[CoS 06 - Wizard of Wines](CoS%2006%20-%20Wizard%20of%20Wines.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 08 - Abby of Saint Markovia](CoS%2008%20-%20Abby%20of%20Saint%20Markovia.md)


CoS 07 - Battle of the Blights


# Session 8

**Date:** 2022-08-26
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*
* [Bloodstone, Jasper](../2.%20PCs/Bloodstone,%20Jasper.md) - *Lonnie* 

## Events

Headed to [Krezk](../4.%20Locations/Krezk.md) with a wagon full of wine. Level up! Kas gets her mount - its a giant scorpion that she "merges with" to ride. On the road we meet [Jasper](../2.%20PCs/Bloodstone,%20Jasper.md). 

### Krezk

Arrive in Krezk, present the wine and enter. There is not much in the way of business - its share and share alike. Its around noon after all our endeavors of the day. Most people are gray.

Note that the baroness looks sad, maybe in mourning. Her son died several days ago. There are 4 graves behind her house, one is a fresh grave. All of her children die of some strange illness. In the broader family plot, it looks like others dug up and reburied, but the graves did not settle correctly. Zed consoles and blesses. 

### To the Abby!

Winds up a large hill that overlooks the town. 

*The switchback road that hugs the cliff is ten feet wide and covered with loose gravel and chunks of broken rock. The ascent is slow and somewhat treacherous, and the air grows colder as one nears the top.*

### To the Pool First!

[Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md) stops about 100 feet. She sees:

*Even under gray skies, this pool at the north end of the village shimmers and sparkles. Near its shore sits an old gazebo on the verge of collapse. A wooden statue of a mournful, bare-chested man, its paint chipped and faded, stands in the gazebo with arms outstretched, as though waiting to be embraced.*

The pool radiates vibrancy. She wants to go back down to it. The pool is very positive effects. The world feels less gray and oppressive. Ireena begins to walk with a purpose to the water.

\*As Ireena reaches the pool's edge, an image appears in its sparkling blue waters: a handsome youth of kind and noble visage. The sadness in his eyes turns to sudden joy.

*"Tatyana!" he says. "It has been so long! Come, my love. Let us be together at last."*

*Ireena gasps and puts a hand on her heart. "My beloved Sergei! In life, you were a prince and a man of faith. We were to be married long ago. Has this blessed pool called your spirit to me?" She reaches toward the water's surface as a hand of water rises up to take hers.*

Jasper tackles here, Kas does not sense evil. Then there is a peel of thunder. A cloud roles in, with a face in it. "She is mine!" And that hand shoots down a lightning bolt into the pool. We are knocked to the ground and the gazebo is destroyed, including the shrine.

*A peal of thunder shakes the land, and the dark clouds coalesce into a terrible visage. A deep, dark voice from beyond the mountains cries out, "She is mine!" A terrible crack resounds as blue lightning splits the sky and strikes the pool.*

Ireena does not get what just happened, does not know the names. But [Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md) confirms the face in the storm was [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md).

Rest of the town hid.

### Back to the Abby

The [Abbey of Saint Markovia](../4.%20Locations/Abbey%20of%20Saint%20Markovia.md). 

*The road from the village climbs above the mist to the wide ledge on which the abbey is perched. A light dusting of snow covers the trees and the rocky earth.*

*The gravel road passes between two small, stone outbuildings, to either side of which stretches a five-foot-high, three-foot-thick wall of jumbled stones held together with mortar. Blocking the road are iron gates attached to the outbuildings by rusty hinges. They appear to be unlocked. Viewed through the gates, the stone abbey stands quiet. Its two wings are joined by a fifteen-foot-high curtain wall. A belfry protrudes from the rooftop of the closer north wing, which also sports a chimney billowing gray smoke.*

Note the most defensive place. We enter.
*Stunted pine trees grow out of the rocky earth in the graveyard near the foundation of the abbey's north wing. The windows of the structure are cracked panes of leaded glass. Ancient gravestones burst from a thin crust of snow in the yard. Beyond the low wall that surrounds the graveyard, the ground falls away. The village lies four hundred feet below, and the view is breathtaking.*

Has hears snoring from the tower. Stealths over, couple of poor sentries. Moving on. But, two mongrel men awake at Zed's noise.  [Belview, Otto](../5.%20People/Belview,%20Otto.md) and [Belview, Zygfrek](../5.%20People/Belview,%20Zygfrek.md). They lead on.

*The thick fog that fills this courtyard swirls, as if eager to escape. The courtyard is surrounded by a fifteen-foot-high curtain wall on which stand several guards with their backs to you - or so it seemed at first. It's clear now that these guards are merely scarecrows.*

*Wooden doors to the north and east lead to the abbey's two wings. In the center of the courtyard is a stone well fitted with an iron winch, to which a rope and bucket are attached. Along the perimeter, tucked under the overhanging wall, are several stone sheds with padlocked wooden doors, as well as three shallow alcoves that contain wooden troughs. Two wooden posts pounded into the rocky earth have iron rings bolted to them, and chained to one of them is a short humanoid with bat wings and spider mandibles.*

*The quiet is shattered by horrible screams coming from the sheds.*

Ireena has second thoughts after the mongrelmen, and it gets worse. Two people come out - one a handsome and a woman. He notes its an opportunity for the woman to interact with "others". She has seams along her shoulders and legs. She is rather stitched together. A *Flesh Golem*. She is to a bride for Strahd.

Quest - A bridal gown! We decline and he is not pleased. 

### Back to the Town

Talking with the [Baron Brezkov](../5.%20People/Baron%20Brezkov.md). All of a sudden that [The Abbott](../5.%20People/The%20Abbott.md) is there telling the Baron that he will raise their son if he gets a wedding gown within a month. The mother agrees. Carric confronts to make sure that there son would be whole.

As Anna (Baroness) prepares, others call for Anna to help give birth nearby. A baby is born, has the gray look. Very sad, the child has no soul. Zed gives a look on a spiritual level - the grays do not have souls!

Note that the Brezkov's do not know [Tatyana](../5.%20People/Tatyana.md) or [Sergei von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Sergei%20von%20Zarovich.md) 

## Vallaki

We will provide protection for [Anna](../5.%20People/Baron%20Brezkov.md) to [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md). In return, she will provide us more information about the lands.

Anna's Information 

* Souls do not leave, reincarnate
* Many born without souls
* Strahd is a vampire, and cursed of the land. Has classic vampire tropes. Family cursed by some foul deed in the past.
* Many draw, all eventually die.
* Werewolves and dire wolves, plus bats
* Time is in moons, vs months.
* Wine is the lifeblood of [Barovia](../4.%20Locations/Barovia.md) 
* An outsider near [Mount Baratok](../4.%20Locations/Mount%20Baratok.md)
* Gods - Morninglord, but absent
* Mother Moon - has cursed people with Strahd.
* Vistani - serve Stahd.
* Walk of the dead to the castle at night
* Never harm a Raven
* The Abbott has been around for a century. Many believe he serves Strahd. Thanks [Father Donavich](../5.%20People/Father%20Donavich.md). 

##### Navigation

[CoS 07 - Battle of the Blights](CoS%2007%20-%20Battle%20of%20the%20Blights.md)  | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 09 - The Bones of Saint Adral](CoS%2009%20-%20The%20Bones%20of%20Saint%20Adral.md)


CoS 08 - Abby of Saint Markovia

## Eva---
date: 2022-09-09
tags: session\strahd

# Session 9

**Date:** 2022-09-09
**Location:** [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md) 

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*
* [Bloodstone, Jasper](../2.%20PCs/Bloodstone,%20Jasper.md) - *Lonnie* 

## Events

### On the Way to Vallaki

There are 4 [Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md) as we approach an intersection near the [Luna River](../4.%20Locations/Luna%20River.md). They are waiting for us. [Madame Eva](../5.%20People/Madame%20Eva.md) of the [Tser Pool](../4.%20Locations/Tser%20Pool.md).

The Kolyana's have a surprised reaction (kinda like famous person asking you over). We plan to take the Kolyana's to [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md) and then to the Pool. Perhaps we can learn something about leaving this place.

### Vallaki

[Festival of the Blazing Sun](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Festival%20of%20the%20Blazing%20Sun.md) is going on in the town square. [Anna](../5.%20People/Baron%20Brezkov.md) says there is always a festival in Vallaki - they foolishly think that such joviality staves off [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md).

#### Saint Adral's Church

Stop in at [Saint Adral's Church](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md#saint-adral-s-church). [Father Lucian Petravich](../5.%20People/Father%20Lucian%20Petravich.md). We really know this guy (Insights of 19, 21, and 27).

New Quest - Someone stole the Bones of Saint Adral. The priest confides this to Zed. The priest thinks [Milivoj the Gravedigger](../5.%20People/Milivoj%20the%20Gravedigger.md) took the bones. He is very temperamental. 

Zed confronts Milivoj with Kas providing backup. He admits it. He sold bones [Henrik Van der Voort](../5.%20People/Henrik%20Van%20der%20Voort.md) to get food for his family. Henrik did ask in round about ways for Milivoj to dig up bodies in the past but he has refused. The man is in town.

Zed makes him go confess to the priest. Priest is moved by the story and is merciful, and wants to help his family. But he is disturbed by what has happened to the bones.

Priest feels Henrik is evil.

#### Coffinmaker

We pass a procession with most of the townfolk forcing their enthusiasm. Then to the shop.

*This uninviting shop is two stories tall and has a sign shaped like a coffin above the front door. All of the window shutters are closed up tight, and a deathly silence surrounds the establishment.*

We are at the back door but do not hear anything. Its barred from the inside. Eventually we force the front door as Henrik will not lets us in. Kas intimidates him, and he will lead us to the bones upstairs.

Upstairs, Henrik says to go right. Kas, being not so bright, opens the door on the left. There is an foul creature there, somewhat drow like, and Kas comes forward. Its throws Kas off (first is a crit/fail, Inspiration, Hit and smite for near minimal damage). Henrik attacks Carric on the stairs, but not much effect. Zed takes Henrik out with Sacred Flame.

The foul *Vampire Spawn* attacks, raps up Kas, and bit her! Carric rushes in and stabs the spawn. Kas breaks out and her weapon bursts into a green flame. Zed casts Guilding Bolt, hits it and granting Advantage. Attacks Kas and grapples again, but fails to bite. Carric attacks, misses with the rapier but hits with the dagger with good damage (partially resisted). Kas attacks but misses. Zed drops Sacred Flame, misses. Casts Shield of Faith on Kas. The creature also starts to heal. 

Kas finally puts a bit hit on the Spawn. Zed hits again, causing damage and Advantage. Carric finishes that spawn of darkness.

We find the bones and minor loot. 

##### Navigation

[CoS 08 - Abby of Saint Markovia](CoS%2008%20-%20Abby%20of%20Saint%20Markovia.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 10 - The Reading](CoS%2010%20-%20The%20Reading.md) 


CoS 09 - The Bones of Saint Adral


# Session 10 - CoS

**Date:** 2022-09-16
**Location:** [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md)

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*
* [Bloodstone, Jasper](../2.%20PCs/Bloodstone,%20Jasper.md) - *Lonnie* 

## Events

After delivering the bones, the church looks to be a good place for [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md) to stay (sanctified). 

Go to the Blue Water Inn for dinner then back to the church overnight. [Anna](../5.%20People/Baron%20Brezkov.md) arrives, she is not doing well in finding a dress. The [Baroness Lydia Petrovna](../5.%20People/Baron%20and%20Baroness%20of%20Vallaki.md) supposedly has one. [Rictavio](../5.%20People/Rictavio.md) comes down and chats.

[Lady Fiona Wachter](../5.%20People/Lady%20Fiona%20Wachter.md), to the north of the Inn, has an opportunity for us. We might check it out the next morning. Afterward, [Rictavio](../5.%20People/Rictavio.md) comes back and notes that the Wachter family are servants of [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md), 

**To [Wachterhaus](../4.%20Locations/Wachterhaus.md)** 
*This house seems disgusted with itself. A slouching roof hangs heavy over furrowed gables, and moss-covered walls sag and bulge under the weight of the vegetation. As you study the house's sullen countenance, you hear the edifice actually groan. Only then do you realize the extent to which the house hates what it has become.*

Meet with the Lady. She is a caricature of a villain. She makes small talk. She is looking for regime change in Vallaki. Too many frivolous celebrations. Need people to get back to work and work for The Man (Strahd). Basically get more noticed and attention from Strahd. As the purest bloodline, she would rule.

Book club of evil is in. We give vaguebook answer.

## To the [Tser Pool](../4.%20Locations/Tser%20Pool.md)

The [Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md) and [Madame Eva](../5.%20People/Madame%20Eva.md) 

## The Reading

### Left Cross Card

*This card tells of history. Knowledge of the ancient will help you better understand your enemy*
![](https://i.imgur.com/GJlQXen.png)

**Wizard - The Master of Stars** 
*Look for a wizard’s tower on a lake. Let the wizard’s name and servant guide you to that which you seek.* 

**<mark style="background: #D2B3FFA6;">Obtained</mark>**

### Top Card

*The card tells of a powerful force for good and protection, a holy symbol of great hope.*
![](https://i.imgur.com/uh6xXGB.png)
**Conjurer – 9 of Stars** 
*I see a dead village, drowned by a river, ruled by one who has brought great evil into the world.* 

\*\*<mark style="background: #D2B3FFA6;">Obtained</mark>

### Right Cross Card

*This is a card of power of strength. It tells of a weapon of vengeance: a sword of sunlight.*

![](https://i.imgur.com/d9b4Z3M.png)
**Bishop – 8 of Glyphs** 
\*What you seek lies in a pile of treasure, beyond a set of amber doors.

### Bottom Card

*This card sheds light on one who will help you greatly in the battle against darkness.*

![](https://i.imgur.com/5aT7pcl.png)
**The Darklord – King of Spades** 
\*Ah, the worst of all truths: You must face the evil of this land alone!

### The Middle Card

*Your enemy is a creature of darkness, whose powers are beyond mortality. This card will lead you to him!*

![](https://i.imgur.com/VxR65fb.png)
**The Ghost – King of Hearts**
*Look to the Father's Tomb*

### Other Cards

In case they are needed in the future
![](https://i.imgur.com/43HQCtm.png)

*The thing you seek lies with the dead, under mountains of gold coins.*

![](https://i.imgur.com/Chy5ZFQ.png)

*I see a dark room full of bottles. It is the tomb of a guild member.*

Ask about the wedding dress - the [Baroness Lydia Petrovna](../5.%20People/Baron%20and%20Baroness%20of%20Vallaki.md)

## Leaving the Pool:

*Even here, in the mountains, the forest and the fog are inescapable. Ahead, the dirt road splits in two, widening toward the east. There you see patches of cobblestone, suggesting that the eastern branch was once an important thoroughfare.*

*Parked at the fork in the road, pointed east, is a large black carriage drawn by two black horses. The horses snort puffs of steamy breath into the chill mountain air. The side door of the carriage swings open silently.*



##### Navigation

[CoS 09 - The Bones of Saint Adral](CoS%2009%20-%20The%20Bones%20of%20Saint%20Adral.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 11 - Castle Ravenloft](CoS%2011%20-%20Castle%20Ravenloft.md)


CoS 10 - The Reading

# Session - CoS 11 - Castle Ravenloft

**Date:** 2022-09-23
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*
* [Bloodstone, Jasper](../2.%20PCs/Bloodstone,%20Jasper.md) - *Lonnie* 

## Events

Into the Carriage that might lead us to [Castle Ravenloft](../4.%20Locations/Castle%20Ravenloft.md).

\*After winding through the forest and craggy mountain peaks, the road takes a sudden turn to the east, and the startling, awesome presence of Castle Ravenloft towers before you. The carriage comes to a dead stop before twin turrets of stone, broken from years of exposure. Beyond these guard towers is the precipice of a fifty-foot-wide, fog-filled chasm that disappears into unknown depths.

*A lowered drawbridge of old, shored-up wooden beams stretches across the chasm, between you and the archway to the courtyard. The chains of the drawbridge creak in the wind, their rust-eaten iron straining under the weight. From atop the high walls, stone gargoyles stare at you out of their hollow eye sockets and grin hideously. A rotting wooden portcullis, green with growth, hangs above the entry tunnel. Beyond this location, the main doors of Ravenloft stand open. A rich, warm light spills from within, flooding the courtyard. Torches flutter sadly in sconces on both sides of the open doors*.

![](https://i.imgur.com/p73jK6X.png)

*Thick, cold fog swirls in this courtyard. Sporadic flashes of lightning lance the weeping clouds overhead as thunder shakes the ground. Through the drizzle, you see torch flames fluttering on each side of the keep's open main doors. Warm light spills out of the entrance, flooding the courtyard. High above the entrance is a round window with shards of broken glass lodged in its iron frame.*

*The ornate outer doors of the castle hang open, flanked by fluttering torches in iron sconces. Twenty feet inside the castle is a second set of doors.*

The group advances in, Kas seeks her people. There is gothic organ music playing.

*Cobwebs stretch between the columns that support the vaulted ceiling of a great, dusty hall dimly lit by sputtering torches in iron sconces. The torches cast odd shadows across the faces of eight stone gargoyles squatting motionlessly on the rim of the domed ceiling. Cracked and faded ceiling frescoes are covered by decay.*

*Double doors of bronze stand closed to the east. To the north, a wide staircase climbs into darkness. A lit hallway to the south contains another set of bronze doors, through which you hear sad and majestic organ tones.*

[Rahadin](../5.%20People/Rahadin.md) lets us in.

### Dining Hall

*Three enormous crystal chandeliers brilliantly illuminate this magnificent chamber. Pillars of stone stand against dull white marble walls, supporting the ceiling. In the center of the room, a long, heavy table is covered with a fine white satin cloth. The table is laden with many delectable foods: roasted beast basted in a savory sauce, roots and herbs of every taste, and sweet fruits and vegetables. Places are set for each of you with fine, delicate china and silver. At each place is a crystal goblet filled with an amber liquid with a delicate, tantalizing fragrance.*

*At the center of the far west wall, between floor-to-ceiling mirrors, stands a massive organ. Its pipes blare out a thunderous melody that speaks in its tone of greatness and despair. Seated at the organ, facing away from you, a single caped figure pounds the keys in raptured ecstasy. The figure suddenly stops, and as a deep silence falls over the dining hall, it slowly turns toward you.*

![](https://i.imgur.com/aMQ3j8D.png)

It is [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md) 

He confuses Kas as she searches for his people. Clearly, he know they are here and he has some purpose for them, likely foul. But he does give us free reign of the place, but the castle seals itself.

In the courtyard, oddly it appears open. But Carric does find the yin/yang scorpion amulet of [Nadus Chaulssar](../5.%20People/Nadus%20Chaulssar.md), the leader of the tribe.

On looking around instead of leaving - Dumb ideas is what got us here today (Nyx).

### Grand Hall

Go back in, to the double doors. Hallway of statues. Leads to a ruined chapel to the Morninglord.

### Chapel

*Dim, colored light filters through tall, broken, and boarded-up windows of stained glass, illuminating the ancient chapel of Ravenloft. A few bats flutter about near the top of the ninety-foot-high domed ceiling. A balcony runs the length of the west wall, fifty feet above the floor. In the center of the balcony, two dark shapes are slumped in tall chairs.*

*Benches coated with centuries of dust lie about the floor in jumbled disarray. Beyond this debris, lit by a piercing shaft of light, an altar stands upon a stone platform. The sides of the altar are carved with bas-reliefs of angelic figures entwined with grape vines. The light from above falls directly on a silver statuette. A cloaked figure is draped over the altar, and a black mace lies on the floor near its feet.*

By the guy is a *Mace of Terror*.
![](https://i.imgur.com/zmo7P3n.png)

Also find

![](https://i.imgur.com/NsXHwft.png)

The dead guy has burns likely from radiant damage on him. Likely grabbing the statuette got him. Zedifur is able to touch it, it has a bit of a charge. There is a power for Good there.

[Icon of Ravenloft](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Icon%20of%20Ravenloft.md)

We grab the cloak (party sheet) and the mace (Jasper). The Mace is magic. 

### Chapel Balcony

*A sculpted stone railing encloses this long balcony, which overlooks Ravenloft's chapel. Two ornate thrones stand side by side in the center of the balcony, covered with dust and strung with cobwebs. The thrones face away from the double doors that give access to the balcony.*

Carric asks Kas if there is a way to contact her people. She things really hard, and thinks she could sense another object that might be on other familiar people (Locate Object). Kas would need to prepare the spell.

#### Zombie Attack

<div class="FullPage">

<div style="float:right; margin-left:20px">
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/KvNsyMQ.png" height="275" align="right"><br>
</div>

*Zombies* rise up.  Jasper hits on one of them. Zed turns one of them. These of the Strahd variety and are of weaker stuff (limbs fall off). But wait, the disembodied arm also attacks! Then we finish off the other one.

### Hallway

Open the double doors, hear moans. Advance and a vampire attacks!
Kas slays the mechanical vampire!

### Audience Hall

*Dim light from the courtyard falls into this great hall through the broken glass and iron latticework of a large window in the west wall. This immense room is a place of chilly, brooding darkness. Empty iron sconces dot the walls. Hundreds of dust-laden cobwebs drape the hall, hiding the ceiling from view. Directly across from the window stand a set of double doors in the east wall. Farther south, a single door also leads from the east wall. Staircases at both ends of the north wall lead down.*

*At the far southern end of the hall, a large wooden throne stands atop a marble dais. The high-backed throne faces south, away from most of the room.*

### Study

Dusty scrolls and tomes line the walls of this room. More scrolls and books lie scattered on the floor, around four heavy wooden chests fitted with study iron locks. The only unobstructed floor space is directly in front of the doors on the east and west walls.

In the center of this clutter stands a great black desk. A figure crouches atop a tall stool, scratching on a seemingly endless scroll of paper with a dry quill pen. Nearby a tasseled rope hangs from a hole in the ceiling.

See an old man - [Lief Lipsiege](../5.%20People/Lief%20Lipsiege.md)

![](https://i.imgur.com/RqbjSFy.png)

Note: he is chained to the desk. Has not seen Drow.
In the catacombs or depths of the castle, but has noted no increase in cost. He has done a good number of the books and scrolls. As from the village of [Barovia](../4.%20Locations/Barovia.md).

We explore a bit more and decided to exit the castle for now. Back to [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md) and to the church.

##### Navigation

[CoS 10 - The Reading](CoS%2010%20-%20The%20Reading.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 12 - The Wizard's Tower](CoS%2012%20-%20The%20Wizard's%20Tower.md)

CoS 11 - Castle Ravenloft


# CoS 12 - The Wizard's Tower

**Date:** 2022-09-30
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*
* [Bloodstone, Jasper](../2.%20PCs/Bloodstone,%20Jasper.md) - *Lonnie* 

## Events

Montage to discover the wizard's tower. Its to the west. As one nears it, it cuts of magic and patrons.

Tower door. [Van Richten's Tower](../4.%20Locations/Van%20Richten's%20Tower.md)

### Entrance

*The tower door is made of iron, with no visible handles or hinges. In the middle of the door is a large, embossed symbol - a connected series of lines with eight stick figures set around it. Carved into the lintel above the door is a word: KHAZAN.*

![](https://i.imgur.com/7fa4QOk.jpg)

We sing and dance the YMCA song. It opens.

*Also, Rotting wooden beams support the scaffolding, which groans and creaks with the slightest breeze. A series of ladders and platforms lead to a hole in the northwest wall on the third floor.*

Inside, there are statues and chains. Figure out its a lift. Second floor is rotted, probably the third as well. Since Kas does not know numbers above 3, going to 4 a magical experience.

### That Floor Above Three

*Unlike the levels below, this room shows signs of recent habitation, and although the place reeks of mold and mildew, it has plenty of creature comforts, including a cozy bed, a desk with matching chair, bright tapestries, and a large iron stove with plenty of wood to feed it. Light enters through arrow slits as well as through dirt-caked windows with broken shutters. Other features of the room include a standing suit of armor and a wooden chest. Old wooden rafters bend under the weight of the tower roof, which has somehow remained intact. Mounted to the rafters are pulleys around which hang iron chains that support the tower's elevator platform.*

Carric things someone took meaningful items from here. The chest appears be an under mimic. Carric opens - a wax severed head of a Vistani (real but waxy). A book is underneath.

#### The Tome of Strahd

![](https://i.imgur.com/csGvO1r.png)

Crest of the Zarovich family ([Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md))

Note - that armor is freestanding. 

### The Wagon

Since the Vistani is dead, we examine the wagon. Carric picks the lock on the wagon but misses the trap. There is an explosion. We all get blown back, Nyx is charred. Zedifur saves him. Its a painful lesson. We take a short rest to shore ourselves back up.

### On the Road

Take the book to open back in [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md). But on the way, we are attacked by *Wolves* wolves and *Werewolves*.

The group take a round to get in each other's range, and call upon various magics to be ready. The werewolves may be a problem - not much magic weapons or silver in the group. Focus on the wolves first. There is a terrible crash as all come together. Wolves start to go down, but a couple of werewolves are breaking through to the back line. The wolves are thinned, now the real fight starts.

Kas does call upon [Vulkoor](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Vulkoor.md) to root one of the werewolves to the spot as a sub-prime hunter (Channel Divinity). The casters are damaging the other werewolf. Jasper switches to his magic mace to attack one of the werewolves and gathers up for a second wind. Carric is a dodging fool. Zed and Nyx take on werewolf down. Kas turns and smites one werewolf (crit), and finished it. The battle turns, victory.

Do not recognize the dead werewolves. 

### Tome of Strahd Key Passages

I am the ancient. I am the land. My beginnings are lost in the darkness of the past.  I was the warrior, I 
was good and just.  I thundered across the land like the wrath of a just god, but the war years and the 
killing years wore down my soul as the wind wears stone into sand. 

ll goodness slipped from my life.  I found my youth and strength gone, and all I had left was death.  My 
army settled in the [valley of Barovia](../4.%20Locations/County%20of%20Barovia.md) and took power over the people in the name of a just god, but with 
none of the god’s grace or justice. 

I called for my family, long unseated from their ancient thrones, and brought them here to settle in the 
[Castle Ravenloft](../4.%20Locations/Castle%20Ravenloft.md).  They came with a younger brother of mine,  Sergei. He was handsome and youthful.  I 
hated him for both. 

From the families of the valley, one spirit shone above all others.  A rare beauty who was called 
“perfection”, “joy”, and “treasure”.  Her name was [Tatyana](../5.%20People/Tatyana.md), and I longed for her to be mine. 

I loved her with all my heart.  I loved her for her youth.  I loved her for her joy. But she spurned me!  
“Old One” was my name to her – “elder” and “brother” also.  Her heart went to [Sergei](../5.%20People/Sergei%20von%20Zarovich.md).  They were 
betrothed.  The date was set. 

With words she called me “brother”, but when I looked into her eyes they reflected another name: 
“death”. It was the death of the aged that she saw in me.  She loved her youth and enjoyed it. But I had 
squandered mine. 

The death she saw in me turned her from me.  And so I came to hate death – My death.  My hate is very 
strong.  I would not be called “death” so soon.  I made a pact with Death, a pact of blood.  On the day of 
the wedding, I killed Sergei, my brother.  My pact was sealed with his blood. 

I found Tatyana weeping in the garden east of the chapel.  She fled from me.  She would not let me 
explain, and a great anger swelled within me.  She had to understand the pact I made for her. I pursued 
her.  Finally, in despair, she flung herself from the walls of Ravenloft, and I watched everything I ever 
wanted fall from my grasp forever. It was a thousand feet through the mists. No trace of her was ever 
found.  Not even I know her final fate. 

Arrows from the castle guards pierced me to my soul, but I did not die.   Nor did I lev. I became undead, 
forever. 

I have studied much since then.  “*Vampyr*” is my new name.  I still lust for life and youth, and I curse the 
living that took them from me.  Even the Sun is against me.  It is the Sun and it’s light that I fear the 
most, but little else can harm me now.  Even a stake through my heart does not kill me, though it holds 
me from movement.  But the Sword, that cursed sword that Sergei brought!  I must dispose of that 
awful tool!  I fear and hate it as much as the Sun. 

I have often hunted for Tatyana.  I have even felt her within my grasp, but she escapes.  She taunts me!  
She taunts me!  What will it take to bend her love to me? 

I now reside far below Ravenloft. I live among the dead and sleep beneath the very stones of this hollow 
castle of despair.  I shad seal shut the walls of the stairs that none my disturb me. 

##### Navigation

[CoS 11 - Castle Ravenloft](CoS%2011%20-%20Castle%20Ravenloft.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 13 - Ruins of Berez](CoS%2013%20-%20Ruins%20of%20Berez.md)


CoS 12 - The Wizard's Tower


# COS 13 - The Next Thing

**Date:** 2022-10-14
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

Back in [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md) at the [Saint Adral's Church](../4.%20Locations/Saint%20Adral's%20Church.md) after recovering [Tome of Strahd](../7.%20Notes%20and%20Journal/Tome%20of%20Strahd.md). Now, to the Villiage Drown in Water. The priest things this must be the ruin village of [Berez](../4.%20Locations/Berez.md) off the [Luna River](../4.%20Locations/Luna%20River.md). Avoided due to evil feel.

### Vision in a Dream for Kas.

See through someone else eyes, in some dank dungeon. Probably in the castle. See a handsome man, fine clothes. But clothes are aged. The man looks handsome but ancient is some way. Must be [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md) . Can feel the body is in extreme pain, shackled. A dark elf. Strahd is talking to them - monologuing. Is asking about another female elf (likely Kas). Somehow, they are projecting to me, sharing this. Its [Alaundril Zolond](../5.%20People/Alaundril%20Zolond.md), Priestess of Vulkoor. "It is the will of [Vulkoor](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Vulkoor.md)"

### To Berez

*The dirt and grass soon turn to marsh as the trail dissolves into spongy earth pockmarked with stands of tall reeds and pools of stagnant water. A thick shroud of fog covers all. Scattered throughout the marsh are old peasant cottages, their walls covered with black mildew, their roofs mostly caved in. These decrepit dwellings seem to hunker down in the mire, as though they have long since given up on escaping the thick mud. Everywhere you look, black clouds of flies dart about, hungry for blood.*

*The fog is much thinner on the far side of the river, where a light flashes amid a dark ring of standing stones.*

Someone seems to flashing a light in our direction across the river by the standing stones. Zedifur finds a great place to cross the river. 

#### Menhirs

*A dozen moss-covered menhirs form a near-perfect circle in the spongy earth. These weathered stones range in height from 15 to 18 feet. A couple of them lean inward as if to share some great secret with their inscrutable neighbors. A wary-looking peasant woman lurks behind the tallest stone, a rusty lantern clutched in one gnarled hand and a dagger clutched in the other.*


[Muriel Vinshaw](../5.%20People/Muriel%20Vinshaw.md) is one of the souled. Looks to be [Barovian](../4.%20Locations/County%20of%20Barovia.md), and not [Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md). An ancient and powerful hag named Baba Lysaga lives in a hut in the middle of the village. When not in her hut, [Baba Lysaga](../5.%20People/Baba%20Lysaga.md) flies around in a giant skull. Baba Lysaga periodically sends her scarecrows to attack the Wizard of Wines, a winery and vineyard west of Berez. 

#### Church

*Through the fog you see the empty shell an old stone church, north of which is a cemetery of leaning gravestones enclosed by a disintegrating iron fence. Half of the cemetery has sunk into the mire.*


Nothing here of interest.
#### The Mansion

*Toward the south end of the village lie the remains of a mansion built on higher ground. It has been reduced to piles of stone and rotting timber. Empty, arched windows stare at you. South of the ruin, an untamed garden runs rampant, surrounded by broken walls that are no longer able to contain it. East of the ruin, someone has erected a crude wooden fence, forming a circular yard in which several goats are penned. Surmounting the fence posts are human skulls.*


We avoided.
#### The Statue

*Hidden by the fog and elevated a few feet above the surrounding marsh is a raised plot of land, barely ten feet on a side, enclosed by a disintegrating iron fence. In the center of the plot is a life-sized stone monument carved in the likeness of a kneeling peasant girl clutching a rose. Although her features are gray and weatherworn, she bears a striking resemblance to [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md). Carved into the monument's base is an epitaph. "Marina, Taken by the Mists"* 

Carric looks around the statue. There is an oddity around the base. Carric digs around and pulls out some an amulet - the [Holy Symbol of Ravenkind](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Holy%20Symbol%20of%20Ravenkind.md). Then creatures rise up out of the mire (*Zombies*?). We outpaced them. The old lady is gone, but her stuff is there (set down).

Back to [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md).

##### Navigation

[CoS 12 - The Wizard's Tower](CoS%2012%20-%20The%20Wizard's%20Tower.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 14 - Amber Temple](CoS%2014%20-%20Amber%20Temple.md)


CoS 13 - Ruins of Berez


# COS 12 - TBD

**Date:** 2022-10-21
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*

## Events

From the reading
\*What you seek lies in a pile of treasure, beyond a set of amber doors.

The priest thinks its the hidden [Amber Temple](../4.%20Locations/Amber%20Temple.md) (X on the map) - south, 10 mile travel.

On the travels, have to go through [Tsolenka Pass](../4.%20Locations/Tsolenka%20Pass.md)

### Tsolenka Pass

*The shelf of rock on which the mountain road clings grows narrow. To your left, the icy cliffs rise sharply toward dark, rolling clouds. To your right, the ground falls away into a sea of fog. Ahead, through the wind and snow, you see a high wall of black stone lined with spikes and topped by statues of demonic vultures with horned heads. Set in the center of the wall is a closed iron portcullis, behind which burns a curtain of <mark style="background: #BBFABBA6;">green flame</mark>.*

*On the other side of the dark wall, gripping the mountain's edge, is a guard tower of white stone topped by golden statues of mighty warriors.*

Nyx goes to check it out. Vulture statues crack open, *Vrock*s! Nyx attempts Eldritch Blast and pushes them - but fails. Kas hits one with the hand crossbow. One of the devils drops down and screeches, studding Carric. The other drop down to rake Nyx. 

Nyx counters, knocks it back against the gatehouse. Kas denouces one of them, to no avail, steps up to protect Carric. Carric is still stunned. One pours out spores, but we resist. The Vrock in a rage attacks Nyx, impotently flailing away.

Nyx strikes again, pushing him back. <mark style="background: #D2B3FFA6;">Kas DOUBLE Nat 20, double full Smite nearly kills it.....and Karric mops it.</mark>
Final Vrock is tearing into [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) .
![](https://i.imgur.com/cvNbdfG.png)

Nyx, in bad shape, blasts again and flees. Kas engages with the whip and smites again. Carric cuts into it as well. It screeches, Carric drooling. Kas misses. It attack Kas but misses. Nyx finishes it off!

The portcullis raises, but the Green Flame is still there. Toss the Vrock into the flame, it incinerates it. It takes time, but we can navigate around the flame. 

#### Tower Lower

*A cold hearth stands across from the door, the wind howling down its chimney. A stone staircase is on the south wall. Three windows look out over a foggy sea.*
We go to the little side tower and Carric gets a barred door open with Kas' assistance. The place looks abandoned. 

#### Tower Upper

*The upper level of the tower is an icebox with windows set in almost every wall. A rusted iron ladder bolted to the floor and ceiling leads up to a wooden trapdoor. Mounted above the stone hearth is a dire wolf's head. The wind coming down the chimney howls in its stead.*

Up the stairs, its extreme cold. 

#### Top of Tower

*Ten-foot-tall, gold-plated statues stand atop the battlements, facing outward. Each one depicts a female human knight holding a lance. The cold wind stirs the snow, under which you see human skeletons clad in rusty mail.*

No heraldry.

Hole up and long rest.

*One of the statues atop this arch has crumbled, leaving only the hindquarters of the horse intact. The mountain pass continues beyond.*

Kas and Carric sees someone on the bridge, no details other than a hood. We get closer, looks a bit ring-wraithy.

*The low walls that enclose the stone bridge have fallen away in a couple of places, but the bridge appears intact. A black-cloaked rider on a charcoal-colored horse guards the middle of the bridge.*

Its [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md)! Then dissolves and blows away with a low evil laugh.

*The snowy pass comes to a gorge spanned by a stone bridge. At each end of the bridge is a thirty-foot-tall, thirty-foot-wide stone arch. Atop each one are two statues of armored knights on horseback with lances, charging toward one another. The wind bites and howls like wolves as it passes through the gorge.*

### Amber Temple

*The road fades away under a covering of snow, but it takes you far enough to see the facade of some kind of temple carved into the sheer mountainside ahead. The front of the structure is fifty feet high and has six alcoves containing twenty-foot-tall statues. Each statue is carved from a single block of amber and depicts a faceless, hooded figure, its hands pressed together in a gesture of prayer. Between the two innermost statues is a twenty-foot-tall archway with a staircase leading down.*

Very cold (natural weather). 

#### Into the Temple

*Icy steps descend ten feet to a time-ravaged hallway with arrow slits in the walls. Beyond the hall lies a vast, sepulchral darkness.*

#### East Arrow Slits

*Two arrow slits are carved into the west wall of this 10-foot-high, twenty-foot-square room. Slumped in the northeast corner is a skeleton wearing a blue wizard's robe and clutching a wand to its chest.*

Nyx eyes working his way through the arrow slit but currently sees no other entrance/exit. Uses ghostly insight to try to see more. Goes in and grabs the wand, the [Wand of Secrets](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Wand%20of%20Secrets.md)

#### Balcony

*A twenty-foot-wide balcony of black marble with a shattered railing overlooks a vast temple. Black marble staircases at each end of the balcony descend thirty feet to the temple floor. The vaulted ceiling is thirty feet above the balcony. The walls and ceiling are covered in an amber glaze, lending the gloom a golden sheen. A set of amber doors stands closed at the west end of the balcony. A similar pair stands open to the east.*

Kas can see across the dark temple a large statue, 40' tall.

#### East Amber Doors

*This room is featureless except for a rough-edged, 10-foot-diameter circular hole in the floor to the east and empty torch sconces along the walls. Double doors of amber stand open to the north and west. A single closed door lies just south of the western set of double doors.*

Looking in the hole - Green Flame! on the floor of red marble, that opens into a room. Lots of handholds. Probably a 10' drop once down there.

We set that aside and continue to explore this level. Go to a door, nothing in it. 

#### Northern Corridor

*Glazed amber covers the walls of this twenty-foot-wide, seventy-foot-long arched corridor. The amber doors at both ends of the hall stand open. A closed door is in the middle of the east wall, and three arrow slits are cut into the wall across from it. Cracks in the black marble floor run the length of the hall.*

The arrow slits overlook the main temple complex. Carric opens the door on the East. 

#### East Bas Relief Room

*This chamber is brightly lit by red copper lanthorns that hang from the ceiling. The walls are sheathed in amber that has been shaped into bas-reliefs of wizards with spellbooks. Stairs to the north and south descend twenty feet to an obsidian lectern, behind which a slab of black slate hangs from chains. Between the stairs are descending rows of red marble benches.*

Looks like a college lecture hall. Carric notices someone trying to hide behind the lectern.  [Vilnius](../5.%20People/Vilnius.md) - came with his master, there is an Amber Golem. The Flameskulls of Green Flame! killed his master. Temple is a a wealth of forbid arcane knowledge. Flameskulls are dead amber wizards. Mountain people take haven here. It does not travel far, but it does come down the hallway. Thus why the floors are cracked.

##### Navigation

[CoS 13 - Ruins of Berez](CoS%2013%20-%20Ruins%20of%20Berez.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 15 - Amber Temple - Giant Statue](CoS%2015%20-%20Amber%20Temple%20-%20Giant%20Statue.md)


CoS 14 - Amber Temple


# Untitled

**Date:** 2022-10-28
**Location:** [Amber Temple](../4.%20Locations/Amber%20Temple.md) 

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

Continuing on at the [Amber Temple](../4.%20Locations/Amber%20Temple.md). GM says we do not need Paul at all. We pull a rabbit (Zedifur) our of our hat.

Carric scouts ahead.

### Amber Golem Room

\*The walls and ceiling in the eastern portion of this bare stone room have collapsed. To the west and south are open amber doors. In the center of the room is a ten-foot-tall statue of a jackal-headed warrior made of cracked amber. *

There is an *Amber Golem* inert, but likely guarding the area.

### East Amber Room

Decide to explore more before taking on the Golem. Head south and are accosted by green *Flameskulls*, coming out of the hole. Zed Flamestrikes the group. Carric closes and attacks one, and hits. Kas closes as well, striking. Flameskulls miss, and one goes blurry.

Zed miss the blurry one. Carric attacks the blurry skull and hits! Destroys the skull. He also hits his original target. Kas stabs hard into another. The Skulls fire rays at us, generally missing. One partially hits Carric.

Zed strikes with Guiding Bolt, granting Advantage on the skull on Carric. Carric strikes and destroys the one in front of him. Kas misses. Last Skull drops a nuked at ground zero. Carric dives away, Kas resists (saves), and the skull is immune.

Zed launches Guiding Bolt again, but GM cheats by using a Shield reaction but still grants Adv. Carric finishes him. Kas kicks the skulls into the hole as a warning to others.

### Giant Statue Rooom

Right hand side across the room:
*This black marble balcony, thirty feet above the floor, overhangs the northeast corner of the temple. The two amber doors leading from this balcony stand open.*

Right hand side across the room:
*This black marble balcony overhangs the northwest corner of the temple, the floor of which lies thirty feet below. Nearly half of the balcony has fallen away, and obvious cracks have formed near its ragged edge.*

#### Temple Main Floor

*Four black marble columns support the vaulted ceiling of the temple, at the north end of which stands a forty-foot-tall statue of a cowled figure in flowing robes. The statue's stony hands are outstretched as if in the midst of casting a spell. Its face is a void of utter blackness.*

*The ominous statue stands between two black marble balconies, one of which has partially collapsed and fallen on the temple's black marble floor, in front of an open doorway. The walls of the temple are sheathed in amber, and the doors leading from it are made of amber as well. Arched hallways coated with amber lead away from the temple to the west and east. Flanking these exits are alcoves that hold white marble statues of robed human wizards with pointed hats and golden staffs. One of them has toppled over and lies shattered on the floor.*

We go down to the temple floor. From the giant statue, a fireball comes from its darken Cowl. We rush forward to try to get cover. Kas gets to the foot of the statue. Then Misty Step up to the cowl, and feels around. It does feel like a face. Carric climbs. Zed still looking about the floor area.

Kas feels around to strike and eye, but finds a hole. For a second, feel like paralysis but resists. There is  a room in the head, it still very dark. But, she is not alone...

Zed comes over to the statue. Carric gets into the head. Kas strikes, missing due to darkness and Shield. [Henrich Stolt](../5.%20People/Henrich%20Stolt.md) tries Fear (we do not know the name yet). Carric gets in and slips a dagger into him, but its not much of an impact. Kas continues to strike close. Henrich calls upon electrical energy. Nasty damage to Kas (saves, but still high). Carric dodges.

Cliffhanger!

##### Navigation

[CoS 14 - Amber Temple](CoS%2014%20-%20Amber%20Temple.md)  | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 16 - Even More Amber Temple](CoS%2016%20-%20Even%20More%20Amber%20Temple.md)


CoS 15 - Amber Temple - Giant Statue


# CoS 16 - Even More Amber Temple

**Date:** 2022-11-04
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

Picking up from last time, we battle a creature ([Henrich Stolt](../5.%20People/Henrich%20Stolt.md)) in the darkness inside the head of a giant statue.

### Head Fight

Zed leaps in and activates the [Holy Symbol of Ravenkind](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Holy%20Symbol%20of%20Ravenkind.md) - Sunlight. This is going to hurt Kas, but hopefully the enemy more. Zed also gets a bit of healing onto Kas. Carric, now seeing the old wizard, strikes. Kas then double hits and smites, destroying the fiend. An *Arcanaloth*.

Loot - Spellbook, Spectacles, and Robe (magical).
[Robe of Useful Things](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Robe%20of%20Useful%20Things.md) - Nyx 

There is a side room, but likely not secure. Back to a barracks for a Long Rest. Back to the giant statue. We look at a set of amber double doors. Carric cannot open it - magic. Nyx things there is necrotic magic woven in a trap. Zed looks to dispel. It seems to have worked.

### Rime Room - Catecombs

Very cold undisturbed. 
\*You smell the horrid perfume of the ancient dead. Stone niches along the walls of these catacombs hold human-shaped amber husks, bones, and tattered shrouds.

*Tall, iron candlesticks stand in alcoves. Their candles ignite as you enter, casting flickering light upon the walls and causing the shattered amber to glitter.*

*More skeletal remains fill niches in the walls of this smaller annex, the amber husks that once preserved them smashed beyond repair.*

We even tried the wand, nothing of interest. Well, some of them are missing their skull. Might be the *Flameskull*s. We move on.

### Speaking of Flameskulls

We go back into the main area, and there are Flameskulls ready to attack us. They are in the arrowslits overlooking the area.

Zed cast Shield of Faith on Carric and Sacred Flame on a skull (ignores cover). Kas tosses up a bolt from the hand crossbow, does cause a Shield to pop. Nyx Eldtric blast with a pull. Carric runs up and attacks one that has been pulled out by Nyz. A skull drops a small fireball between Nyz and Zed. Another toss one at Kas, who is in cover. Take some damage. The one on Carric Blurs and tries to fly away. 

Kas Misty Steps up to the balcony, but misses. Nyx attacks, misses. Carric shoots at the one on Kas. Misses. The battle continues. The Skulls are cooking Nyx. Zed puts some healing on Nyz. All three have been hit, with the one on Kas in worse shape.

A ball of green flame appears own on the main floor (flaming sphere). Two of them magic missiles Kas. Those on the lower have issues getting at the Skulls. Kas hits one, finish it off. Then Double 20 (vs Disadvantage) and crushes another. One skull left, and bases it.

Nyx Sacred Flames the last. Its about down. Carric makes a perfect climb to get up and into the arrow slit. Carric hits, and sneak attacks. Almost takes it down. It blurs and leaves. Due to Shield, we miss. It flies into the room and Zed hits it with Sacred Flame. 

Kas Misty Steps out into the area and strikes the Skull, killing the last one. She falls and twists her ankle.

### West Hall

*The walls of this twenty-foot-wide, seventy-foot-long arched corridor are sheathed in amber. The southern half of the hall is scorched by fire, and a charred corpse lies on the floor here, under a burned fur cloak. Several amber doors lead from this hall, and three arrow slits are cut into the east wall. Floating in the middle of the hall are three skulls wreathed in green flame.*

*Staff of Frost*

We take a short rest to catch our breath. 

### Double Doors North

*Torches in sconces illuminate a dining table in the center of the room. Covering the table is a magnificent feast that fills the hall with the rich smells of cooked meat, sweet vegetables, piping hot gravy, and wine.*

Then ghostly figures appear, and the room shows its age.

Cliffhanger!

##### Navigation

[CoS 15 - Amber Temple - Giant Statue](CoS%2015%20-%20Amber%20Temple%20-%20Giant%20Statue.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 17 - The Amber Golem](CoS%2017%20-%20The%20Amber%20Golem.md)


CoS 16 - Even More Amber Temple


# CoS 17 - The Amber Golem

**Date:** 2022-11-11 - Veteran's Day
**Location:** [Amber Temple](../4.%20Locations/Amber%20Temple.md) 

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

We pick up mid-event from last time.

### Double Doors North

*Torches in sconces illuminate a dining table in the center of the room. Covering the table is a magnificent feast that fills the hall with the rich smells of cooked meat, sweet vegetables, piping hot gravy, and wine.*

Then ghostly figures appear, and the room shows its age.

Cliffhanger!

##### Navigation

[CoS 15 - Amber Temple - Giant Statue](CoS%2015%20-%20Amber%20Temple%20-%20Giant%20Statue.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 17 - The Amber Golem](CoS%2017%20-%20The%20Amber%20Golem.md)

*Spectors!* appear! Carric strikes out! [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) casts a protection spell, then sacred flame. The angry spirits retaliate. One in particular strikes Zed hard, but he resists the drain. Nyx does get drained a bit (cannot heal that damage). Kas smites two of the spectors, destroying them. Nyx sacred flames ones.

Carric is surrounded and lashes out, slowing ripping the ectoplasm out it. Zed jumps back (no AOO!) and cases Word of Radiance, but not much. Specters strike but Carric keeps them at bay.  Kas smites two more into nothingness. Nyx Eldritch blasts. 

Carric, with Kas nearby, is able to sneak attack and destroys one, heavily damages another. Zed Word of Radiances one of the last two. Specters miss badly. Kas mops the one on Carric and bases the one on Nyx and Zed. Nyx finishes. 

These turn out to be Storm Specters.

We are pretty burnt through - long rest.

### Balcony Behind Big Statue

*This black marble balcony overhangs the northwest corner of the temple, the floor of which lies thirty feet below. Nearly half of the balcony has fallen away, and obvious cracks have formed near its ragged edge.*

This crumbling balcony may not take much weigh. Carric cautiously goes to the door with Nyx, work the doors. 

### Foyer and Obsidian Statue

*This bare stone room consists of a foyer to the east and a shrine to the west. Candlesticks draped in cobwebs stand in the four corners of the foyer. In the shrine, a faceless obsidian statue stands in a raised alcove at the western end of the chamber. Slumped before the statue are two desiccated corpses in tattered garments. Two pairs of alcoves line the north and south walls of the shrine.*

Carric investigates. Feels a compulsion to kneel before the shrine, but he resists.  The desiccated bodies look to have been wizards. Might have died in prayer. They may have succumbed to the call. Kas provides overwatch, holding my hand crossbow all gangsta style lining up Nyx.

Zed casts Bless on himself, looks to dispel magic on the statues. He barely saves. Dispel works! We continue in. Not much with the statue. It does look like the big one. Kas gets into a city naming convention discussion with Zed.

But, there is a secret door here!

### Arrow Slit Room

*This narrow room has an arrow slit in the center of the south wall.*
Nothing.

### Secret Door

*Hundreds of skulls fall out of a cavity behind the door. Attached to the thirty-foot-high ceiling of this dark sepulcher is an upside-down iron chest with a barrel-shaped lid.*

There is a chest secured to the ceiling, held with magic. Zed tries to dispel the arcane lock. Chest is now unlocked. Nyx unlocks, then magic washes over him, projected straight down. The center of the floor disappears - we fall to the floor below, right behind the Statue.

### Junk Room

*The amber doors that once sealed this great stone room have been smashed, their pieces lying amid crushed bones, armor, and weapons.*

We make a grand entrance into this room from above. 

### Treasure Room

We found the treasure room off the main hall (Dispel magic)! There is our Amber Golem friend, awaiting us. Battle!

Carric readies to attack on Kas's move. Nyx -- Eldritch Blast - knocks a few bits off. Zed casts Bane on it - works! Kas "Your foul unalignedness ends today!" Vow of Emnity, Haste (a green glow) - hits with a smite. Golem amber's us, .trying to slow Carric and Kas but fails. Carric then strikes, sneak attacks and carves on it. Nyx missed. Zed guiding bold - damage. Kas his three times, inflicted heavy damage. The Golem misses both Carric and Kas. Carric  sneak attacks again - mops it up!

One pile radiates magic. In a pile of death cleric stuff - and a Sith Light Saber. The [Sunsword](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Sunsword.md). Carric takes it.
.
We leave with the other guy, and move on.

##### Navigation

[CoS 16 - Even More Amber Temple](CoS%2016%20-%20Even%20More%20Amber%20Temple.md) | [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | [CoS 18 - Into Castle Ravenloft](CoS%2018%20-%20Into%20Castle%20Ravenloft.md)


CoS 17 - The Amber Golem


# CoS 18

**Date:** 2022-12-09
**Location:**

## PCs

* [Kas'asar Xar'Cha](../2.%20PCs/Kas'asar%20Xar'Cha.md) - *Rees, Jeffrey*
* [Carric](../2.%20PCs/Carric.md) - *Daymude, Mark*
* [Nyx](../2.%20PCs/Nyx.md) - *Ippolito, Paul*
* [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) - *Bryan*

## Events

We have the book, the sword, the icon and our souls. Time to take down [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md). To [Castle Ravenloft](../4.%20Locations/Castle%20Ravenloft.md)!

Do we take [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md), who Strahd thinks is [Tatyana](../5.%20People/Tatyana.md)? Group whines about morality. 

We make wooden stakes. Stay near Zed has the Icon has Protection from Evil running within 30'.

### The Crypts

Into the Castle. Mist and dread hang in the air. New statues of dragons. We continue to the Chapel of Ravenloft, and seek a way into the crypts. We find a circular stair, one headed down. Deep into the castle the stairs take us - the Crypts. Hear [Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md) up ahead. Chat with them, they are stalling for [Rahadin](../5.%20People/Rahadin.md) to show up. Softly, Kas hears faint shout of rage, frustration. Kas is very blunt about why the group is here.- 

Sumbitch attacks!
![](https://i.imgur.com/VKWMoZg.png)

Rahadin misty steps to Kas and Carric. Rapid strikes on Kas and Carric. One Vistani casts Evil Eye on Carric - Held! Kas shakes off the Eye. Others attack. Wear on us. Kas hits and Smites him twice, calling her Vow of Emnity. Nyx misses. Carric breaks out of the Eye. Zed casts Shield of Faith on Kas and Bane on the enemy, but that has no effect. 

Rahadin moves to Nyx and Zed - Zed gets the extra attack. Hard hit on Zed and Nyx. Thugs his Carric once. Others hit Kas. Kas tears into a thug, wounding him badly. Nyx blasts Rahadin - badly wounded. Carric rips up a thug, kills him. Zed hopes down and heals Kas and Shield of Faith on Carric.

Rahadin, with dark energy on the blade, strikes Nyx and Zed. Nyx takes it rather bad. Carric dodges most of the attacks. Kas steps over and tears more into Rah. Nyx puts more damage on him. Carric slips the Thugs and attacks Rahadin. Sneak attack takes him down. The thugs continue on. Zed heals Nyx.

Vistani come one, fanatical. Carric takes some damage. Others miss Kas except for a glancing blow. Kas hits hard, nearly killing a thug, Nyx finishes. Carric carves into a thug. Zedifur calls on Sacred Flame , injuring another. 

Thugs hit Carric, Kas dances away. Kas pours more damage on a wounded thug but does not quite take them down. Nyx mops the wounded thug. Two left. Nyx futher hurts the other wounded thug. Carric nearly takes down the wounded thug, but does not finish him. Zed sacred flames the wounded. 

Last thug misses Kas, Kas tears into him and the rest finish him. 

### Strahd

End game!

![](https://i.imgur.com/xIyUMdK.png)

He monologues a bit, and the fight is on. Strahd throws out a dark necrotic bold, injuring Nyx. Kas rushes forward as a blur, but misses. Strahd tries a quick counterattack but misses. Carric pulls out the Sunsword and rushes Strahd, "[Sergei](../5.%20People/Sergei%20von%20Zarovich.md) sends his regards". Carric hits him, but Strahd hits back hard. Nyx "just blast him". Strahd misses with another strike. Zed heals Carric via the Icon and Spiritual Weapon. 

Strahd is effected by the Sword, it burns him. He focuses his wrath on Carric. He backhands Carric, nasty damage. He then grabs Carric and tries to bite him. Carric is able to turn partially away. Kas injects healing poison (lay on hands) to Carric and then strikes Strahd pretty hard even though the light is hurting her eyes. Carric attempts to wriggle out of Strahd's grasp. but fails. Nyx tosses out a few items from the bag of useful items (animals to attack). Zed pulls out the [Holy Symbol of Ravenkind](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Holy%20Symbol%20of%20Ravenkind.md) and more Sunlight. Then the dogs strike - one knock Strahd down! That keeps him there, taking Radiant Damage. 

Strahd strikes the dogs, killing them easily. Kas strikes and hits two time even with the Light, heavily hurting him. Carric escapes from Strahds grasp and snags a potion. Stradh fails about between out strikes, the light hurting him. Nyx draws guiding bolt and hits. Zed calls down Flame Strike!

![](https://i.imgur.com/DKH8xSe.jpg)

Big Explosion of Light 

### Epilogue

Carric - on Strahd's throne
Zed - in the wildfey with carrots
Nyx - in the fey - might be nasty going on - eyes back to the same color (what happened to patron)
Kas - Back to Eberron, the mist fades and some of the tribe has return.

There is a dark soft laugh. But someone steps into view.

##### Navigation

[CoS 17 - The Amber Golem](CoS%2017%20-%20The%20Amber%20Golem.md)\| [Curse of Strahd](../Curse%20of%20Strahd.md) | TBD


CoS 18 - Into Castle Ravenloft

# Vistani

Rumor is they helped [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md) before he became a vampire. [Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md) things they are all servants of Strahd. Rumored they can leave [Barovia](../4.%20Locations/Barovia.md) .

[Madame Eva](../5.%20People/Madame%20Eva.md) seems to be independent. 


Vistani


# Abbey of Saint Markovia

*The switchback road that hugs the cliff is ten feet wide and covered with loose gravel and chunks of broken rock. The ascent is slow and somewhat treacherous, and the air grows colder as one nears the top.*

*The road from the village climbs above the mist to the wide ledge on which the abbey is perched. A light dusting of snow covers the trees and the rocky earth.*

*The gravel road passes between two small, stone outbuildings, to either side of which stretches a five-foot-high, three-foot-thick wall of jumbled stones held together with mortar. Blocking the road are iron gates attached to the outbuildings by rusty hinges. They appear to be unlocked. Viewed through the gates, the stone abbey stands quiet. Its two wings are joined by a fifteen-foot-high curtain wall. A belfry protrudes from the rooftop of the closer north wing, which also sports a chimney billowing gray smoke.*

*Stunted pine trees grow out of the rocky earth in the graveyard near the foundation of the abbey's north wing. The windows of the structure are cracked panes of leaded glass. Ancient gravestones burst from a thin crust of snow in the yard. Beyond the low wall that surrounds the graveyard, the ground falls away. The village lies four hundred feet below, and the view is breathtaking.*

*A fifteen-foot-high curtain wall joins the abbey's two wings. Behind its battlements, two guards stand at attention, their features obscured by fog. Below them, set into the wall, is a pair of ten-foot-tall, wooden doors reinforced with bands of steel. To the right of these doors, mounted on the wall, is a tarnished copper "May her light cure all illness."*

## Description

In [Krezk](Krezk.md) 

Seems to be a save haven for those who have been corrupted. They are dedicated to the Morninglord. This plan is rather messed up. The abbott created a *Golem, Flesh* as a bridge for [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md). 

## NPCs

* [The Abbott](../5.%20People/The%20Abbott.md)
* [Vasilka](../5.%20People/Vasilka.md)
* [Belview, Otto](../5.%20People/Belview,%20Otto.md) 
* [Belview, Zygfrek](../5.%20People/Belview,%20Zygfrek.md)


Abbey of Saint Markovia


# The Amber Temple

## Description

*The road fades away under a covering of snow, but it takes you far enough to see the facade of some kind of temple carved into the sheer mountainside ahead. The front of the structure is fifty feet high and has six alcoves containing twenty-foot-tall statues. Each statue is carved from a single block of amber and depicts a faceless, hooded figure, its hands pressed together in a gesture of prayer. Between the two innermost statues is a twenty-foot-tall archway with a staircase leading down.*

### Amber Temple

We think its the site of the [Sword of Sunlight](../6.%20Miscellaneous/Sword%20of%20Sunlight.md). Must go through [Tsolenka Pass](Tsolenka%20Pass.md) to get there.

### NPCs


Amber Temple


# The Arasek Stockyards

*Flavor Text*

## Description

### Arasek Stockyards

This large stockyard has several locked sheds along its periphery and lies adjacent to a roomy warehouse. A wooden sign above the front gate reads "Arasek Stockyard."


Arasek Stockyards


# Barovia

The main village in the county of Barovia.

![](https://i.imgur.com/Nln3FnI.jpg)

Death House

The sparse light from this building spills out from behind drawn heavy curtains. A sign over the door, creaking on its hinges, reads "Bildrath's Mercantile." (SE of main square). [Bithrath](../5.%20People/Bithrath.md)

Blood on the Vine Tavern - due north from Mercantile


Barovia


# The Berez

## Description

A ruined village that crossed [Strahd von Zarovich](../5.%20People/Strahd%20von%20Zarovich.md) off the  [Luna River](Luna%20River.md). 

![](https://i.imgur.com/wJIykVh.jpg)

### Berez

*The dirt and grass soon turn to marsh as the trail dissolves into spongy earth pockmarked with stands of tall reeds and pools of stagnant water. A thick shroud of fog covers all. Scattered throughout the marsh are old peasant cottages, their walls covered with black mildew, their roofs mostly caved in. These decrepit dwellings seem to hunker down in the mire, as though they have long since given up on escaping the thick mud. Everywhere you look, black clouds of flies dart about, hungry for blood.*

*The fog is much thinner on the far side of the river, where a light flashes amid a dark ring of standing stones.*

#### Menhirs

*A dozen moss-covered menhirs form a near-perfect circle in the spongy earth. These weathered stones range in height from 15 to 18 feet. A couple of them lean inward as if to share some great secret with their inscrutable neighbors. A wary-looking peasant woman lurks behind the tallest stone, a rusty lantern clutched in one gnarled hand and a dagger clutched in the other.*

#### The Mansion

*Toward the south end of the village lie the remains of a mansion built on higher ground. It has been reduced to piles of stone and rotting timber. Empty, arched windows stare at you. South of the ruin, an untamed garden runs rampant, surrounded by broken walls that are no longer able to contain it. East of the ruin, someone has erected a crude wooden fence, forming a circular yard in which several goats are penned. Surmounting the fence posts are human skulls.*

#### Church

*Through the fog you see the empty shell an old stone church, north of which is a cemetery of leaning gravestones enclosed by a disintegrating iron fence. Half of the cemetery has sunk into the mire.*

#### Town Square

*Someone has built a ramshackle wooden hut on the stump of what was once an enormous tree. The rotting roots of the stump thrust up from the mire like the legs of a gigantic spider.*

*An open doorway is visible on one side of the hut, beneath which floats the upside-down, hollowed-out skull of a giant. Flanking the hut's doorway are two iron cages that dangle like hideous ornaments from the eaves. Scores of ravens are trapped in each one. They squawk and flutter their wings excitedly as you approach.*

#### The Statue

*Hidden by the fog and elevated a few feet above the surrounding marsh is a raised plot of land, barely ten feet on a side, enclosed by a disintegrating iron fence. In the center of the plot is a life-sized stone monument carved in the likeness of a kneeling peasant girl clutching a rose. Although her features are gray and weatherworn, she bears a striking resemblance to [Ireena Kolyana](../5.%20People/Ireena%20Kolyana.md). Carved into the monument's base is an epitaph. "Marina, Taken by the Mists"* 

### NPCs


Berez


Blood of the Vine or Blood of the Vine?

In [Barovia](Barovia.md)

[Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md)

There are 3 "vibrant" women sitting together. They are [Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md) and own the inn.

One other vibrant sitting alone.


Blood on the Vine Tavern


# The Blue Water Inn

*Flavor Text*

## Description

### Blue Water Inn

 > 
 > \[!example\] Outside the Inn
 > Gray smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall.

 > 
 > \[!Example\] Inside the Inn
 > Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques.

The bartender is in between in is vibrancy. 

[Brom Martikov](../5.%20People/Brom%20Martikov.md) is the child service. His mother is at the bar talking with the innkeeper. Martikov family.

#### Menu

**Drink**

* Red Dragon Crush 
* Purple Grapemash 3

**Food**

* Beet Soup 
* Purple Grapemash
* Wolf Steak


Blue Water Inn


# Castle Ravenloft

*Flavor Text*

## Description

![](https://i.imgur.com/p73jK6X.png)

![](https://i.imgur.com/dRND266.png)

## NPCs


Castle Ravenloft


Very south of town.

A weary-looking mansion squats behind a rusting iron fence. The iron gates are twisted and torn. The right gate lies cast aside, while the left swings lazily in the wind. The stuttering squeal and clang of the gate repeats with mindless precision. Weeds choke the grounds and press with menace upon the house itself. Yet, against the walls, the growth has been tramped down to create a path all about the domain. Heavy claw markings have stripped the once-beautiful finish of the walls. Great black marks tell of the fires that have assailed the mansion. Not a pane nor a shard of glass stands in any window. All the windows are barred with planks, each one marked with stains of evil omen.


Burgomaster Mansion


# County of Barovia

*Flavor Text*

## Description

## Map

![](https://i.imgur.com/kpiSw9t.jpg)

## NPCs


County of Barovia


# Krezk

*The road branches north and climbs a rocky escarpment, ending at a gatehouse built into a twenty-foot-high wall of stone reinforced with buttresses every fifty feet or so. The wall encloses a settlement on the side of a snow-dusted mountain spur. Beyond the wall you see the tops of snow-covered pines and thin, white wisps of smoke. The somber toll of a bell comes from a stone abbey that clings to the mountainside high above the settlement. The steady chime is inviting - a welcome change from the deathly silence and oppressive fog to which you have grown accustomed. It's hard to tell at this distance, but there seems to be a switchback road clinging to the cliffs that lead up from the walled settlement to the abbey.*

## Insider Krezk

*The mist-shrouded village beyond the wall is nothing more than a scattering of humble wooden cottages along dirt roads that stretch between stands of snow-dusted pine trees - so many trees, in fact, as to constitute a forest. To the northeast, gray cliffs rise sharply, and the road winding up to the abbey is easy to see from this vantage.*

Note - there are no businesses - its like a hippy commune.

## Description

![](https://i.imgur.com/lSMEwNf.jpg)

![](https://i.imgur.com/GWZ4OsV.png)

## NPCs

* [Baron Brezkov](../5.%20People/Baron%20Brezkov.md) 
* People in the [Abbey of Saint Markovia](Abbey%20of%20Saint%20Markovia.md)


Krezk


# Lake Zarovich

*At the foot of a mountain, nestled in the misty forest, is a large lake. The water is perfectly still and dark, reflecting the black clouds overhead like a monstrous mirror.*

## Description

[Vallaki](Vallaki.md) is a town on the south shore.

## NPCs


Lake Zarovich


# Luna River

*Flavor Text*

## Description

## NPCs


Luna River


# Mount Baratok

*Flavor Text*

## Description

## NPCs


Mount Baratok


# Old Windmill

*A branch in the road leads west to a promontory, atop which is perched a dilapidated stone windmill, its warped wooden vanes stripped bare.*

## Description

![](https://i.imgur.com/RrBknp0.png)

## NPCs


Old Windmill


# The Reknown Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders

## Description

### Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders

Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words "Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders." A heavy padlock secures the back door.


Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders


# River Ivlis

*Flavor Text*

## Description

## NPCs


River Ivlis


# The Saint Adral's Church

## Description

### Saint Adral's Church

This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves.

Church of the Morninglord. [Father Lucian Petravich](../5.%20People/Father%20Lucian%20Petravich.md) presides.

### Relic

# The Bones of Saint Adral

## Description

### Bones of Saint Adral

Relics, was in the [Saint Adral's Church](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md#saint-adral-s-church). Taken by [Milivoj the Gravedigger](../5.%20People/Milivoj%20the%20Gravedigger.md) and solder to [Henrik Van der Voort](../5.%20People/Henrik%20Van%20der%20Voort.md) of [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md). Recovered by the heroes.


Saint Adral's Church


# Tser Falls

*Flavor Text*

## Description

## NPCs


Tser Falls


# Tser Pool

*Flavor Text*

## Description

The [Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md) hang out there. [Ismark the Lesser](../5.%20People/Ismark%20the%20Lesser.md) recommends to avoid

Crossroads on *The Way Inn* 
\>\[!Info\]
\>An old wooden gallows creaks in a chill wind that blows down from the high ground to the west. A frayed length of rope dances from its beam. The well-worn road splits here, and a signpost opposite the gallows points off in three directions: BAROVIA VILLAGE to the east, TSER POOL to the northwest, and RAVENLOFT/VALLAKI to the southwest. The northwest fork slants down and disappears into the trees, while the southwest fork clings to an upward slope. Across from the gallows, a low wall, crumbling in places, partially encloses a small plot of graves shrouded in fog.

\*The road gradually disappears and is replaced by a twisted, muddy path through the trees. Deep ruts in the earth are evidence of the comings and goings of wagons.

*The canopy of mist and branches suddenly gives way to black clouds boiling far above. There is a clearing here, next to a river that widens to form a small lake several hundred feet across. Five colorful round tents, each ten feet in diameter, are pitched outside a ring of four barrel-topped wagons. A much larger tent stands near the shore of the lake, its sagging form lit from within. Near this tent, eight unbridled horses drink from the river.*

*The mournful strains of an accordion clash with the singing of several brightly clad figures around a bonfire. A footpath continues beyond this encampment, meandering north between the river and the forest's edge.*

## NPCs

[Madame Eva](../5.%20People/Madame%20Eva.md) 
[Vistani](../3.%20Groups/Vistani.md)


Tser Pool

# The Tsolenka Pass

## Description

<div class="FullPage">

<div style="float:right; margin-left:20px">
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/wtQAw9X.png" height="275" align="right"><br>
</div>

*One of the statues atop this arch has crumbled, leaving only the hindquarters of the horse intact. The mountain pass continues beyond.*

### Tsolenka Pass

### NPCs

Tsolenka Pass


# Vallaki

## Description

South/middle shore of [Lake Zarovich](Lake%20Zarovich.md).

This down has more color than [Barovia](Barovia.md), less bled out. More natural smells of animals, a town. Animals are kept inside.

![](https://i.imgur.com/E7wcJkj.jpg)

## Locations

### Arasek Stockyards

This large stockyard has several locked sheds along its periphery and lies adjacent to a roomy warehouse. A wooden sign above the front gate reads "Arasek Stockyard."

### Blue Water Inn

 > 
 > \[!example\] Outside the Inn
 > Gray smoke issues from the chimney of this large, two-story wooden building with a stone foundation and sagging tile roof, upon which several ravens have perched. A painted wooden sign hanging above the main entrance depicts a blue waterfall.

 > 
 > \[!Example\] Inside the Inn
 > Damp cloaks hang from pegs in the entrance portico. The tavern is packed with tables and chairs, with narrow paths meandering between them. A bar stretches along one wall, under a balcony that can be reached by a wooden staircase that hugs the north wall. Another balcony overhangs an entrance to the east. All the windows are fitted with thick shutters and crossbars. Lanterns hanging above the bar and resting on the tables bathe the room in dull orange light and cast shadows upon the walls, most of which are adorned with wolf heads mounted on wooden plaques.

The bartender is in between in is vibrancy. 

[Brom Martikov](../5.%20People/Brom%20Martikov.md) is the child service. His mother is at the bar talking with the innkeeper. Martikov family.

#### Menu

**Drink**

* Red Dragon Crush 
* Purple Grapemash 3

**Food**

* Beet Soup 
* Purple Grapemash
* Wolf Steak

### Saint Adral's Church

This slouching, centuries-old stone church has a bulging steeple in the back and walls lined with cracked, stained glass windows depicting pious saints. A fence of wrought iron encloses a garden of gravestones next to the church. A thin mist creeps among the graves.

Church of the Morninglord. [Father Lucian Petravich](../5.%20People/Father%20Lucian%20Petravich.md) presides.

### Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders

Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words "Rictavio's Carnival of Wonders." A heavy padlock secures the back door.

## NPCs

Brom - Child at the Blue Water Inn.

[Baron and Baroness of Vallaki](../5.%20People/Baron%20and%20Baroness%20of%20Vallaki.md)


Vallaki


# Van Richten's Tower

## Description

![](https://i.imgur.com/CQcymNP.png)

### Tower of Van Richten

*The tower door is made of iron, with no visible handles or hinges. In the middle of the door is a large, embossed symbol - a connected series of lines with eight stick figures set around it. Carved into the lintel above the door is a word: KHAZAN.*

![](https://i.imgur.com/7fa4QOk.jpg)

### NPCs


Van Richten's Tower


# Wachterhaus

*Flavor Text*

## Description

*This house seems disgusted with itself. A slouching roof hangs heavy over furrowed gables, and moss-covered walls sag and bulge under the weight of the vegetation. As you study the house's sullen countenance, you hear the edifice actually groan. Only then do you realize the extent to which the house hates what it has become.*

## Locations

### Vestibule

*The front door opens into a narrow vestibule. Three stained-glass doors in wooden frames lead from it.*

### Dining Room

*An ornate dining table stretches the length of this room, a crystal chandelier hanging above it imperiously. The silverware is tarnished, the dishes chipped, yet all are still quite elegant. Eight chairs, their backs adorned with sculpted elk horns, surround the table. Arched windows made of a latticework of iron and glass look out onto the small, fog-swept estate.*

### Parlor

*Here three elegant couches surround an oval table made of black glass. All are set in front of a blazing hearth, above which hangs the portrait of a smirking nobleman sporting a broken nose and a tangle of hair graying at the temples. Several smaller portraits hang on the north wall.*

## NPCs

[Lady Fiona Wachter](../5.%20People/Lady%20Fiona%20Wachter.md)


Wachterhaus


# Wizard of Wines

*Flavor Text*

## Description

## NPCs

[Davian Martikov](../5.%20People/Davian%20Martikov.md)


Wizard of Wines

# The Bones of Saint Adral

## Description

### Bones of Saint Adral

Relics, was in the [Saint Adral's Church](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md#saint-adral-s-church). Taken by [Milivoj the Gravedigger](../5.%20People/Milivoj%20the%20Gravedigger.md) and solder to [Henrik Van der Voort](../5.%20People/Henrik%20Van%20der%20Voort.md) of [Vallaki](../4.%20Locations/Vallaki.md). Recovered by the heroes.


Bones of Saint Adral

Festival of the Blazing Sun

## Description

A powerful holy symbol against undead. 

<div class="FullPage">

<div style="float:right; margin-left:20px">
<img src="https://i.imgur.com/15Ve7RI.png" height="275" align="right"><br>
</div>

[Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) will attune to it.

![](https://i.imgur.com/1WIl4L7.png)

Holy Symbol of Ravenkind


# The Icon of Ravenloft

## Description

### Icon of Ravenloft

![](https://i.imgur.com/NsXHwft.png)

Found in the Chapel in [Castle Ravenloft](../4.%20Locations/Castle%20Ravenloft.md).  [Zedifur](../2.%20PCs/Zedifur.md) attuned.


ravenloft