dangelo
 Link to the  OOC thread  
   
Traveling through the Mist was like swimming in a whirlpool of chaos, desperately reaching for air, dragged towards its vortex in a hazy blur of lights that dazed whoever dared to endure it. For the Pillars that sustained the world were twelve, and six beams of light sat across them in pairs; Drawing from the ancestral powers that ruled before gods and men, the number six manifested across the many worlds laid on top of this foundation. Six were the beams of light, and six were the portals opened through the Mist.

Tall shapes loomed out of the dense fog that surrounded everything. The muddy ground underfoot gave way to slick, wet cobblestones, forming a winding road that slowly lead down to the bottom of the Valley of Barovia. The tall shapes became recognizable as village dwellings; The windows of each house stared out from pools of blackness. Beyond the village, overlooking the valley from thousands of feet above, a massive fortress of grey stone was perched on the edge of an imposing cliff. Its battlements were silhouetted against the night; Its spires pierced the thick layer of clouds that covered the sky, disappearing into the grey nothing.


"When yon river forks, not to join another, but to split itself in two, ye start to wonder: which's the root, and which's the branch? Can both be the same river, or have we now three different currents? Time and space... kin as the faces of a single coin. Twist one, the other dances in tune. Out here in Barovia, things turn wild and wayward: Tellin' what's true from the phantoms in yer mind gets tricky, for time's gone a-wandering. Ye might face weeks-long nights, and days as brief as sunrise. Nightmares as real as real life. Moments where ye don't know if yer dreaming or not."

It was hard to say exactly when, or who arrived first, but all six outsiders eventually gathered by the bonfire placed just outside the village. A tent had been erected here, bright purple and golden, emanating the smell of incense and healing herbs. In front of the tent, by the bonfire, the oldest woman in the world told stories in her cracked voice.

"Just because we found a story in the past, it doesn't mean it is originated there... Death is not absolute. It is possible to hear stories from the future." She looked at each of them, deep in the eyes. "So I will tell you the tale of how you ended up lost in Barovia, and the outcome of your crusade... But I have a price, and its not in gold or silver. Each of you will tell me a story in return, yes you will. Bring me visions from beyond the Mists, stories I haven't heard yet. Then I will look into your future and see your destiny."
TaiLiu
The half-orc woman offers to speak first. She stands near the crackling fire and tells her story.

"I am Yikkol Four-Eyes, strangers, though we are allies if you also wish Strahd death. I come across the Salt Sea from a country green and beautiful. Tonight, I will tell you about its founder.

"Once upon a time, my country was ruled by a great king. His name was Guriptu, and he commanded ten thousand men who commanded ten thousand others.

"He wore a cloak made from phoenix feathers and held a sword forged from the essence of a demon. He built canals, artificial rivers, and great temples. He brought fertility and prosperity to every corner of his kingdom.

"But even the greatest men grow old. One day, Guriptu called his high priest to his side.

"'I am dying,' he told his priest. 'My soul wishes to ascend and be unwoven by the Fates. But I am not yet done with my work. How can I live?'

"His high priest thought for a moment. 'We cannot give you eternal life. But when you die, we can steal your soul from Heaven and bring you back—young and replenished.'

"'Do it,' said the king. And when at last he died, that's what his priests did. They snuck into Heaven, grabbed his soul, and slipped away to their temples. They brought him back with salt and diamond, and he rose from the grave young and replenished.

"So he continued his reign. Over the centuries he built schools and temples and lakes, and his people were fat and happy. They marveled at the new world he built for them. They marveled at how he never seemed to age.

"But at the heart of the new world lived a terrible secret. People began to go missing in greater and greater numbers. One night, his high priest found the king with a mystery woman. Around him were the corpses of several others. He was drinking her blood.

"He was a vampire! The high priest realized that his predecessor made a terrible mistake. King Guriptu lunged at him. But the high priest had the Fates on his side. With a prayer, he set the king's phoenix cloak ablaze. While the king struggled to throw it off, the priest seized his demon blade and put it through the king's chest.

"He died; and his soul ascended to Heaven for good, where it was finally unwoven by the Fates. And while there are still princes and princesses, the high priest declared that there would be no new kings or queens. The Church would rule in their stead.

"So ends the tale of Guriptu. And so began the reign of the high priests, which still continues to this day."

Yikkol sits back down and turns to the fortune teller. "Old woman, read victory in my future. Tell me I recover my mother's bones. I will hear nothing less."
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

Herbert is left shaken by his trip.  One more thing shaking his world around him and making him less confident in...himself.  This has been a year for that.  At least Pelor is a constant, a guiding light he can turn to.  After a few minutes of prayer, Herbert cast  Light  on the symbol of Pelor that adorns the boss of his shield and moves forward cautiously, his armor clinking in places as he moves cautiously across the damp streets.

A heavyset human man, he speaks with conviction to the storyteller.   "I am Herbert Raycraft.  After spending too long working to advance the cause of Pelor in the drawing room, the dining table, and the meetings of the nobles, I was forcibly reminded that doing good means acting, not simply talking."   He shares briefly his experiences of the Gray Night.   "As for destiny and the future, does that not belong to time and the gods?  Yet I do know that some servants of the gods have the ability to peer towards the future as well, so I will listen." 
TaiLiu
As someone else gets up to speak, Yikkol whispers to Herbert. "That was a good story, your holyness. But who is Pelor?"
Waistcoatwill
  Bori   

Confused and disoriented by the mists, the halfling hones in on the one familiar thing he can see, a campfire. It was considered bad luck for a member of House Ghallanda to spurn other travellers without good reason, but unease still prickled down his spine.

  There's nothing wrong with knowing who I'm sharing a fire with.   He reaches out with his senses as he closed with the others, feeling for their spirits and those of the land around him.

Something felt strange and unpleasant in the air around him and the earth beneath his feet. This did not feel like Khorvaire any more, but at least he didn't seem to have wandered into Mabar.   Dolurrh, maybe? Can't be dead or Nethis would be here. The mists hadn't seemed connected to the Mournland either 

Evening, friends! I am Bori, a humble servant of House Ghallanda. Do you all have ample food and refreshments?  no reaction to the name Ghallanda, definitely not Khorvaire. He continued on in his usual jovial patter but was glad the tone of the previous story matched his mood.  Stories is it? I think I've got another one about Kings and their consequences.

Almost a thousand years ago a human King named Galifar  decided, as Kings do, that things would be better if he was in charge of everywhere and everyone. Not necessarily better for the other people's mind, but I do t believe Kings think that way. Well...After much conquering and fighting he'd done it, all of the big town-folk nations his, and noone outside them fancied anymore fighting. Redrew the maps a d everything and put his kids in charge of the old nations so they could practice Kinging and Queening before he chose an heir.

Somehow this worked, more of less, down the centuries without any terrible family squabbles. I don't think that's realistic either, must have had a top Ghallanda cook keeping them all coming back to the family table.in the holidays. Until it didn't at least. One kid wanted to be in charge, not all the siblings agreed...naturally rhe way to solve that argument was to get lots of commom folk to fight it out for them and war reigned for gone a century.

Now war always has lots.of horribleness, but some folk will tell you there was good stuff too. Artificer had a great time, and not just in House Cannith. Lots of fancy new gadgets. Not for fighting mind, I'd live to ride on a Lyrandar airship. Some say they went too far though, the constant arcane artillery, movile fortresses, colossi. Maybe the land rebelled at too much disturbance, maybe it was a new weapon gone wrong, but in the space of hours an entire nation was wiped off the map. 

He laughs, a hint of bitterness finally creeping in.

 Typically, it was avoiding that catastrophe that meant I stumbled...wherever this is. Some days you can't win I guess. If you can see what the future holds then I'm all ears though. I had obligations back home that I need to get back to. 

He settles down to listen and make sure everyone has drinks and snacks.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Breathing heavily from the mist's assault, Lord Varanash eyed the old woman - she reminded him of the Vistani who had brought him here and left him on the road. Was she in league with them? Perhaps she was more than she seemed?

Lord Varanash then looked at the other strangers surrounding the fire. Many of them looked strange, other-worldly, and they spoke of places and people that were unfamiliar to him. Perhaps this place, Barovia, sat at a junction between dimensions? If so, why had they all been brought here together? So many questions swam in his mind; but he doubted he would get any clear answers from the travellers or the old woman in front of them. His best chance at success, or even survival, was to ally with these strangers.

Hearing the Half-Orc woman mention that she wished Strahd dead was comforting though - it would make his quest to claim the castle and it's power as his own much easier; he hoped.

Taking control of his breathing, Lord Varanash moved to warm himself by the fire. He extended one hand in particular towards the flame and everyone can see a large tarantula crawl out from his sleeve to sit on his hand to warm itself. (If anyone is able to detect/recognise them, the spider appears Infernal). He whispered some quiet words and his cloak began to shift colours into a deep purple colour, displaying some kind of heraldic symbol emblazoned on it.

  "I am Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan."   He said, with a bored confidence that suggested he had said this line thousands of times before.   "I also seek the destruction of Strahd, and propose that we work together to achieve such a task. I am a Wizard of some renown, and can lend my magical abilities and study to our shared cause."  

He considered what story to tell for a moment before speaking once again.

  "Once upon a time there lived a Drow named Malachi. He had a notorious reputation as the village prankster and was often found stumbling around the tavern, drunk on mushroom wine.

Malachi was the sort of Drow who had a knack for finding mischief in the most mundane situations. Whether it was casting illusions on unsuspecting villagers or stealing cakes from the village bakery, his mischievous antics were a constant source of amusement for the locals. In spite of his inebriated state, people couldn't help but be entertained by his charismatic and boisterous personality.

One day, the Festival of Founding was in full swing. The village square was adorned with vibrant decorations, and families from far and wide flocked to enjoy the festivities. Colourful stalls offered everything from crispy roasted lizard and mouth-watering desserts, to exciting games and thrilling rides.

As always, Malachi's presence was hard to miss. He stumbled through the crowd, his footsteps unsteady and his laughter contagious. With each dizzying swig of mushroom wine, his cheeks grew redder, and his voice louder. His friends tried their best to keep up with his antics, but one by one, they fell behind; leaving Malachi to wreak havoc on his own.

In the heart of the festival, Malachi spotted a shiny apple bobbing eagerly in a wooden barrel filled with water. Driven by his impulsive nature, he saw an opportunity for amusement. In his drunken state, the Drow approached the barrel with a mischievous grin and dived headfirst into the water, scattering droplets everywhere.

The crowd gasped as Malachi rose from the barrel, sputtering and blinking away water droplets. But rather than getting up and walking away, he began swirling the water with excitement, creating small whirlpools that sent apple slices spinning in every direction.

The scene turned from shock to laughter as onlookers watched apples spiralling into the air, splattering water upon the cheering spectators. Children ran around, trying to capture the elusive fruits, while others abandoned their inhibitions, joining Malachi in his watery dance.

The festival became a joyful, water-soaked chaos thanks to the drunken Drow's unorthodox idea. Even the village officials, who usually frowned upon such behaviour, couldn't help but chuckle at the enchanting sight. In that moment, Malachi's antics brought a much-needed spark to the village, reminding everyone not to take life too seriously.

As the day drew to a close, Malachi stumbled back to the tavern, his clothes still dripping with water, and his smile wider than ever. Though he may have been a drunken Drow, Malachi had unknowingly become an unexpected hero of the festival, bringing laughter and joy to the hearts of those who needed it most.

From that day forward, whenever the people of the village spoke of the Festival of Founding, they would always remember the year the drunken Drow had turned a simple barrel of apples into a magical whirlwind of laughter and merriment. And though Malachi himself may not always remember the tale, his legend lived on, reminding everyone that sometimes, it's the unexpected moments of chaos that can bring the most joy."  

It had been a story his father had told him, when Zinro was a child. Why this particular story had come to him now was a mystery; but he hoped the jovial nature of the story would endear him to those around him.
J-H
Herbert speaks quietly to Yikkol.   "Pelor is the god of the sun, which brings light, which reveals truth and causes all things to grow and heal.  The undead and the forces of shadow and darkness call him the Burning Hate, for his spells strike fear into them.  Do you not know him, perhaps by another name if you are from another world?" 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Aelki Ruasha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

Rua is pathfinding through the mud and woods, away from the strange gray mists. He had tried to reenter the mists numerous times to discover the ship he had come in on, but he always wound up back in the same woods. Now a path is evident before him, and after some time, he comes upon a campfire with a group of strangers seated around; an old woman, a half-orc, a human, a halfling, and a dark elf and perhaps another elf, it is difficult to tell. He stands there and watches for a while, always looking behind him toward where he had emerged from the mists. Finally, he dismisses the Bionoid armor, and approaches the group.

He joins the circle on the far end, where he can keep sight of the woods he had come through, and looks upon the faces gathered round as the stories continue.

When it is his turn, he says,   My name is Aelki Ruasha, Commander of the Void Knights, elite infantry of the Elven Imperial Fleet. I received a Message of distress from a passenger ship, so we diverted our heading to intercept the ship. To my great surprise, the Message was emerging from a Tyrant ship, or rather, from inside it, as Tyrants are large hollowed out asteroids, and the ship was apparently within the Tyrant. We entered their hull space and docked to find the beholders that were tormenting the people that had sent the message. My crew and I searched, but we could not find anyone. It was as if the place was deserted. But as we ventured further into the hull of the Tyrant, it was as if someone was tracking our movement and controlling the ship from another location. Doors would lock behind us, others would open, sending us in some undetermined direction, but deeper into the ship. At some point, we began to hear moaning, punctuated by screams. The lights began to fail. I mustered my crew to keep their wits about them, and that's when the attack came.   Rua pauses, and his eyes are looking straight into the campfire, as if seeing something that isn't there,   I have witnessed many horrors sailing the star oceans of wildspace, but nothing prepared me for this. It scampered on the hairy bloated body of a neogi, but where it's long eel neck and face should be, was instead the torso and head of a mind flayer. The mind flayer's tentacles were not there, instead it's lamprey mouth was surrounded by a ring of long eye-stalks looking in all directions. It's arms ended in the wolfen heads of Vodoni Enforcers, snapping in whatever direction the eyes were looking in. It's eyes... the two mind flayer eyes, showed me something I had never seen before in the eyes of an illithid; fear and pain. The will of my crew broke, and they ran to the locked doors, pounding their fists on them and demanding to be let out. I engaged the creature, but quickly had to hunker behind my shield as its eye rays unleashed magic at me. It closed in quickly and it's wolfen jaw-hands were reaching over and around my shield to get to me. To my surprise, the doors unlocked and opened, and my crew scattered throughout the ship. I yelled for them to stay put, move into formation, but the fear had overtaken them. I blasted the creature away from me with my Repulsor Shield, and exited the room, looking for my crew.  

There is a long pause.

  I found them, throughout the ship. Some were on a dissecting table. No one else in the room, but they were opened up. I couldn't help them, even though they pleaded. Another I found chained to a wall of the ship, but the wall had teeth, and was consuming him. I broke the chains that held him, but he was in the grip of the wall's bite. I couldn't pull him out. Another still found me in one of the corridors. His head was replaced with a replica head, something like you might see on an autognome. His real head was on a stalk connected to his stomach. He spoke to me as if nothing had changed, telling me to follow him and he would lead us out. But the metal head gazed at me with different intentions. I killed everything that moved and approached me. I don't know how long I was on that ship, running from room to room, down one corridor to the next, escaping diabolical traps and killing abominable horrors. I turned a corner and was plunged into some thick gray mist. I stumbled through there for some time, hoping whatever had been hunting me could not navigate the fog better than I could. I eventually wound up in those woods there, and found you all here.  
  
I do not recognize this sky. What planet is this, and what sphere are we in? And who is Strahd?  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert speaks quietly to Yikkol.   "Pelor is the god of the sun, which brings light, which reveals truth and causes all things to grow and heal.  The undead and the forces of shadow and darkness call him the Burning Hate, for his spells strike fear into them.  Do you not know him, perhaps by another name if you are from another world?"  
 

"He sounds a bit like one of the Fates," says Yikkol, "or perhaps all of them. Our priests are given the power to destroy those who would cheat death.

"Regardless, your holyness, I'm glad you and Pelor are with us. With you here, Strahd is as good as dead."


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 He settles down to listen and make sure everyone has drinks and snacks. 
 

Yikkol takes a beer offered to her.


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "I am Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan."   He said, with a bored confidence that suggested he had said this line thousands of times before.   "I also seek the destruction of Strahd, and propose that we work together to achieve such a task. I am a Wizard of some renown, and can lend my magical abilities and study to our shared cause."   
 

"Death to Strahd!" Yikkol shouts, briefly disrupting the storytelling. An eager ally at last!


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   I do not recognize this sky. What planet is this, and what sphere are we in? And who is Strahd?   
 

"Strahd is a rotten corpse of a man who lives in the castle up there." She points towards the cliff and takes another swig of her beer. "He is a vampire, a bloodsucker who sustains himself on the life of others. He killed my mother, and soon I will have his head."
The Commander
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   
I do not recognize this sky. What planet is this, and what sphere are we in? And who is Strahd?   
 


 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "Strahd is a rotten corpse of a man who lives in the castle up there." She points towards the cliff and takes another swig of her beer. "He is a vampire, a bloodsucker who sustains himself on the life of others. He killed my mother, and soon I will have his head." 
 

  "Our world is named Toril. Or, I suppose I should say,  my  world is named Toril. I have a feeling this place is a place between worlds - a pocket dimension - that we have all been sucked into for one reason or another. I have heard legends that the sun never truly shines here. I wonder what other mysteries this land holds."  
truemane
      
      rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 

A tall, painfully thin, cloaked figure lurks at the periphery of the fire. Glimpsed beneath her large hood, her skin is porcelain white and her eyes are black and deep and contain sadness and darkness within them.

She does not seem confused. Or lost. Or even surprised. And indeed she was not. It has been uncounted (perhaps uncountable) years since her feet have trod this ground, but she still remembered every inch. She was born here. She was home.

"I will tell you a story, Crone," she hissed as she circled the clearing, her steps swift and powerful. "A story about a young girl, born to a life she neither asked for nor deserved. A young girl, driven from her village by her own mother, and cast out into the darkness beneath the trees. A young girl taken in by Vistani. Fed. Clothed. Housed. But treated coldly. Resentfully. A girl hated and ignored."

She sweeps in closer, seeminly trying to keep her distance from the fire while trying to approach the old woman.

"And a young girl abandoned. Left. Thrown away like trash. Left beneath the trees in an alien with no care if she lived or died. Left to wander alone. Left to walk for years and years. Alone."

She looms over the old woman.

"Do you know this story, Crone? Have you heard this story? Is this a story from the worlds beyond? Or a story of your own clan? Either way the story ends with the death of the Devil Strahd. And, if there is any justice in the world, the death of you and all your kith and kin." 
 
  
dangelo
The flames danced and transformed, taking on shapes that showed scenes of the stories being told. The woman sat, captivated by the tales, her eyes wide as she absorbed every word. Her haunched figure hardly moved, even when Strahd and her people were brought up. Her old, twisted fingers were clasped in front of her body. Once the visitors finished their stories, she rose from the tree stump she had been sitting on and opened her arms in a wide, theatrical gesture.

"Once upon this cursed land, hundreds of years ago, before Lord Strahd became the Devil of the Valley, a Vistani caravan ran into a wounded warrior agonizing by the lake. The man was an honorable knight, his armor shiny and his sword adorned with gems - In fact, he was the very prince o' this realm. The Vistani rescued him and took him back to his castle to be healed, and the prince never forgot their hospitality."

"This is why my people is allowed to travel through the Mist, but also why I shan't be yer ally in this crusade." The old woman briefly turned to Rue, but changed her mind and said nothing. "I shall see yer future, like I saw others' before you. I can heal ye wounds when ye come to my tent, like my people healed Strahd when they found him by the lake. I have potions of magical healing that I will sell ye for a fair price - unlike Bildrath, that miserable shopkeep - and other treasures in the bottom of my trunk. But once ye set out to Castle Ravenloft, ye'll be on yer own."

The woman invited the six outsiders to her tent. Inside, the smell of herbs was overwhelming, and the cramped space was filled in green and blue smoke that emanated from the many burning incense sticks. She sat across the table and produced a tarokka deck from inside her sleeve. The woman's dress had once been luxurious and expensive, but was now ragged, weary. "Ya may call me  Madam Eva . For those who haven't, don't bother telling me ye names; I saw them in the Mist many moons ago." She shuffled the deck, her gnarled fingers working nimbly around the cards. "I see the number three in ye journey. Three paths ye must walk, three treasures must find. Without them, fighting the Devil will be useless like grasping at sand."

"First-" She turned the first card: It showed a puppeteer controlling a doll. " The Marionette . Ye must look at the top of the highest tower to find what ye need." She set her big eyes on Lord Zinro. "Ya willin' to face yer ghosts for the sake of this crusade, Dark Elf?"
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


"Second-" The next card showed a girl, young and fair like a maiden. " The Innocent . A brothof light to a brother of shadows. Down below, where he rests in his tomb, is where you shall find the second treasure."
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


"Third-" A voluptuous woman, hiding her face with a fan. " The Tempter ! I see a secret place—a vault of temptation, hidden behind a woman of great beauty."
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


The fourth card was placed above the other three, forming a triangle. It showed the image of a horrible fiend, long claws and more teeth than one could count. "I see  The Beast  in his own lair. When ye wish to face the Devil, look for his dark throne."
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


A long moment of silence followed. Madam Eva looked deep into their eyes, patiently, until she burst out in a cracked voice: "What y'all waiting for? Leave, then! Follow yer hearts into the darkness, and maybe, just maybe, ya might emerge victorious."

Outside, a black carriage had appeared out of nowhere. Tracks on the muddy grass indicated it had been pulled by horses all the way down from Castle Ravenloft - except there were no horses to pull it. Once the outsiders approached, its doors opened by themselves in an invitation.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Madam Eva has a stash of  (1d6)[ 4 ]  Potions of Healing and  (1d3)[ 3 ]  Potions of Greater Healing, sold by 50 and 150 gp respectively.

Bildrath has a stash of  (1d8)[ 1 ]  but will sell them for 10 times the price. (500 gp)

These numbers will refresh every week or so.

I don't think we need entire shopping scenes for you guys to buy potions - write down that you bought them and that's it.

When you post, include a Wisdom (Perception) and Intelligence (Arcana) checks that will be related to the main entrance of Castle Ravenloft. Everyone roll Perception, but only those who have proficiency in n Arcana should roll it. My next post should bring you guys to the front door of the dungeon.
 
Waistcoatwill
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Yikkol takes a beer offered to her. 
 

As Yikkol leans in to take the beer she gets an odd feeling of being more well-rested safe, comfortable and at peace. Almost like feeling at home.

Bori leans in and whispers   I am sorry for your loss. I seek to recover the remains of my own family if I can leave here, I will do everything I can to help you. 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Leave, then! Follow yer hearts into the darkness, and maybe, just maybe, ya might emerge victorious." 
 

He eyes the woman carefully, trying to decide if he believes her.  If we defeat this vampire, what then? Will we be able to return home ?

Bori eyes the carriage somewhat suspiciously.  Do I have to get in that thing? Riding anything else disrespects Nethis and I won't so it unless I have to. 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Insight on the woman, because this all seems like madness to him and he doesn't quite believe it yet.
 (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 

Perception with Advantage
 (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 She set her big eyes on Lord Zinro. "Ya willin' to face yer ghosts for the sake of this crusade, Dark Elf?" 
 

Zinro made a poor attempt of trying to hide his discomfort. How did this strange old woman know so much about him? He shivered at the thought of the tall towers and battlements of the Castle he had briefly seen illuminated in the lightning. He had known, of course, that taking the castle was not going to be easy or pleasant; but he had had no idea that the castle was perched so precariously on the edge of a cliff until now. He briefly thought of abandoning his quest; but his mind went back to the mists that surrounded the village.

  "So these mists are controlled by Strahd? He is responsible for our imprisonment here? And why are you helping us so freely? Why should we trust you?"  

Zinro doubted he would get anything more than cryptic or evasive answers, but he had to ask all the same.


 


As the black carriage approaches, Zinro's mood actually improves slightly - clearly the carriage was magical, and almost certainly sent by Strahd to retrieve them. Such a gesture indicated a level of civility, rather than a raving-mad monster.


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Do I have to get in that thing? Riding anything else disrespects Nethis and I won't so it unless I have to.  
 

  "I'm sure you can ride your mount alongside the carriage."   Zinro says as he steps into the carriage, allowing the tarantula that graced his palm to scurry back up his sleeve.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

I am proficient in Arcana
 Perception:   (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 Arcana:   (1d20+8)[ 25 ] 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 As Yikkol leans in to take the beer she gets an odd feeling of being more well-rested safe, comfortable and at peace. Almost like feeling at home.

Bori leans in and whispers   I am sorry for your loss. I seek to recover the remains of my own family if I can leave here, I will do everything I can to help you.  
 

"Thank you." Yikkol smiles at the halfling man. She wasn't sure about most of her companions, but Bori seemed trustworthy. She liked him already. "I'm sorry for your loss as well. May the Fates guide you to where you need to go."


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 A long moment of silence followed. Madam Eva looked deep into their eyes, patiently, until she burst out in a cracked voice: "What y'all waiting for? Leave, then! Follow yer hearts into the darkness, and maybe, just maybe, ya might emerge victorious."

Outside, a black carriage had appeared out of nowhere. Tracks on the muddy grass indicated it had been pulled by horses all the way down from Castle Ravenloft - except there were no horses to pull it. Once the outsiders approached, its doors opened by themselves in an invitation. 
 

Yikkol Four-Eyes thanks Madam Eva for the advice. She enters the magical black carriage last, shuts the door, and turns to the rest of the party.

"I think we should find the Marionette's treasure first. We can spot the highest tower from the outside. We can climb up the side of the castle to get there. What do you say?"

Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 12 ] . Natural two! 😛
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 

 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "So these mists are controlled by Strahd? He is responsible for our imprisonment here? And why are you helping us so freely? Why should we trust you?"   
 

Rue turned to the tall, regal elf. "You shouldn't trust them. Even when they help, it is for their purposes. The Vistani say  we all have two faces, one for lies and one for family, and even we cannot tell which is which.  Every rose they offer has thorns. Every kindness has a price. Every hand a hidden dagger nearby."

It galled her to give this woman money. And to take anything from her. And to depend on her cursed prophecy for their way forward.

But, above all else, Rue was a practical creature. And she realized the necessity.

When the carriage pulled up her lips pulled back in a snarl (revealing her long thin canines). She would not willingly step inside that thing. The thick clotted air inside would suffocate her (even though she didn't need to breathe). She would come to the Devil Strahd stating at the stars and the sky, or she would not come to him.

She walked over and nimbly leapt on top and perched there like a wild animal scenting the air. Waiting. Ready.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Perception 19
Arcana 10
 

 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
Bori knocks on the door of the carriage and reaches up from the back of his reptilian mount, a small package is clutched in his hand.

 I almost jinxed the entire thing, setting off on a journey without sharing some grub! I'm afraid I only have four left, they're Korth clangers. They were a bit of an experiment but I made 'em fresh this morning. They'll put some meat on your bones. 

Anyone opening the pack will find four pasties. Those brave enough to try them find a rich savoury tribex mince and gravy filling at one end and stewed plums in the other. All of the components are very tasty, even if the combination is a bit odd.

 
 Spoiler: OOC snacks 
Chef feat. 4 snacks which can be consumed in a bonus action and provide 4 THP.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Aelki Ruasha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

Rua is no stranger to strange planets and customs, having interacted with many different peoples throughout the spheres during the Unhuman Wars. However, this encounter resonated with him. On their way to the distress beacon that ultimately brought him to the mists, and then to this place, Rua had seen a shooting star. Sometimes, in the void, if you happen upon a shooting star at just the right angle, it appears flying against the star ocean for a very long time, moving fast and slow together, a ball of blue-white light, with a long tail of white vapor that stretches on forever, until finally, it isn't there.

In all the times he had seen one as a wandering mercenary after his expulsion, Rua had never made a wish. But this time, he was moved to do so. And in the quiet of space, alone at the wheel, he wished of a chance for redemption. He did what he was told to do, and he stopped countless tragedies from befalling the elven people, but they said what he did was wrong. He was tired of wandering the spheres doing mercenary work. He wanted to fight again, to save lives and stop tyrants. He made the wish; give me an opportunity once again.

And now, here he is, in this tent, before this crone. He listened again to her and the others. It sounds like he cannot leave without engaging with this man, Strahd. And this man, Strahd, appears to be a devil. And the people here suffer underneath him. It sounds like an opportunity.

  I will take one of each,   Rua says. He looks once more in Madam Eva's eyes, but senses that she will not disclose much more. He follows the others outside. A black carriage rolls up, and the others begin to get in. Rua looks back towards the woods from which he emerged, glances at the tent, and then up at the castle on the cliff. He takes a moment to acknowledge the shooting star's answer to his wish, and climbs in with the others.

  I can't say I've mounted an assault in which the enemy provides for my transportation before. This will be a first.

I suggest we ditch the carriage and make our own way to the castle, on our terms. A lot of information is generally needed before an operation like this.  

In response to Yikkol he says,   That would be rather conspicuous. I suspect someone like this man Strahd has measures against aerial infiltration, and that's a high way up to be caught by surprise. What resources do we have at our disposal to make that climb? It's at the upper limits of my abilities, but I could fly up if need be.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Purchase a healing potion and greater healing potion.

Perception  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Arcana (proficient)  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Bori knocks on the door of the carriage and reaches up from the back of his reptilian mount, a small package is clutched in his hand.

 I almost jinxed the entire thing, setting off on a journey without sharing some grub! I'm afraid I only have four left, they're Korth clangers. They were a bit of an experiment but I made 'em fresh this morning. They'll put some meat on your bones. 

Anyone opening the pack will find four pasties. Those brave enough to try them find a rich savoury tribex mince and gravy filling at one end and stewed plums in the other. All of the components are very tasty, even if the combination is a bit odd. 
 

"Why, thank you, Bori." Yikkol takes one and tosses one into her mouth.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 In response to Yikkol he says,   That would be rather conspicuous. I suspect someone like this man Strahd has measures against aerial infiltration, and that's a high way up to be caught by surprise. What resources do we have at our disposal to make that climb? It's at the upper limits of my abilities, but I could fly up if need be.   
 

"Just be careful," Yikkol says, "and be quiet. In the dark, we'd be hard to spot."

There's a pause. Then: "Wait, you can  fly ?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Rue turned to the tall, regal elf. "You shouldn't trust them. Even when they help, it is for their purposes. The Vistani say  we all have two faces, one for lies and one for family, and even we cannot tell which is which.  Every rose they offer has thorns. Every kindness has a price. Every hand a hidden dagger nearby." 
 

Zinro regarded Rue for a moment. Subconsciously he was reminded of his own race, and of his sister's predations. In the end he simply nodded, acknowledging her wisdom on the matter.


 


Sitting inside the carriage, Zinro shivered again. The others were talking about  climbing  the castle. Quietly, he cast Prestidigitation and attempted to warm his cloak; partly for genuine warmth and partly to disguise his shivering as the effects of the cold night.

  "If Strahd has sent us this carriage it would be unwise to refuse his invitation. Until we warrant a reason for our destruction in his lands, I'm sure he will treat us as his guests; for now."   Zinro wasn't entirely convinced by this statement, but he was desperately trying to deflect his own anxieties.   "As my cousin Elf also points out, I am sure Strahd has defences against an aerial attack and we would be incredibly vulnerable. Dividing our strength is also ill-advised. I suggest we allow this carriage to take us."  

Zinro, although uncomfortable, considered the tower approach.   "I could send Dot to scout the tower; although I fear the tower is too high for me to remain in constant contact with her."   At the mention of her name, Zinro's spider crawls up onto his shoulder.   "Dot is my spider familiar. She would have no trouble climbing the tower, although it would take her some time; and she would have to climb back down to report on what she's seen. Despite her beauty, she is only just a spider and so wouldn't be able to communicate complex situations."  

Zinro took a deep breath before continuing.   "In the spirit of being open about our abilities, I do possess a spell that will allow us to climb and hang from surfaces like my pet here. However, I can only perform this spell for one person and I must concentrate on holding the effect. Regardless of my concentration, the spell would end after 1 hour. I also possess a spell to create a giant hand of force, that could grab one of us and deposit us at the top of the tower. Again, such a spell requires my concentration, and the hand would only be able to grab one of us at a time. This spell would only last for about a minute. Alternatively, I have a spell that would allow myself and one other person to teleport directly to the top of the tower; but alas I would need time to rest to prepare such a spell. Finally, another spell I possess would turn one of your into a creature - a bat, a giant spider, or the like - that would allow you to either fly to the top of the tower or climb it with ease. Again, I would need to concentrate on such a spell. It would last for an hour, unless I stopped concentrating or your new form took damage that would normally kill it."  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Zinro has Spider Climb and Bigby's Hand prepared, as possible methods of climbing. He also has Dimension Door and Polymorph, but they are not currently prepared.

Aside from Dimension Door, all these spells would only affect a single target and require concentration. Bigby's Hand doesn't last long enough to make several trips up and down the tower, given it's height.

Due to his fear of heights, he never learned the spell Fly.
 
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 

Rue perched on the roof of the carriage and watched as everyone else piled into its warm, safe confines. She slouched and frowned. Once again she found herself alone, separated from community and connection by her own strange internal impulses.

Here she was, for the first time in as long as she she could remember, part of a unified group whose aims and goals matched her own, and whose strangeness matched her own, a group who perhaps would not reject her for her heritage or nature ort appetites.

And what did she do when the chance came to sit with them? Talk with them? Share with them? Bond with them?

She got scared of being inside and walked away.

 Typical,  she said to herself,  Typical. Perhaps I don't deserve friendship. Perhaps it is my destiny to be alone. Locked in a cold inaccessible tower like the Devil we are hunting. 

She sat down and pulled her cloak closer around herself. 
 
  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
 
 Spoiler: rolls 

Arcana  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Perception  (1d20+8)[ 16 ] 
 


Herbert looks suspiciously at the carriage, walking around it to check for traps, poison, or anything else.   "This Strahd... he's arrogant and confident, is he?  It's one thing to ignore potential foes, but to send them transportation to reach him faster suggests an ego possibly greater than many of those I dealt with back home." 

Herbert politely declines the offered food.   "I'm trying to eat less these days." 

He climbs into the carriage.  If the inside is not well-lit, he'll cast  Light  on his shield boss.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
"Just be careful," Yikkol says, "and be quiet. In the dark, we'd be hard to spot."

There's a pause. Then: "Wait, you can fly?"

Asha gives a curt nod,   Yes, warriors of my kind can augment their armor to allow for flight when the mission calls for it. The armor could allow for someone else to fly as well, instead of me.  
  We could be quiet and careful Yikkol, but in my experience plans rarely survive contact with the enemy fully intact. And that is a great height from which to have to improvise. My armor can protect me from the fall if something happens but...  

He regards her and Zinro, and looks up at the light thump as Rue hops to the top of the cart,   Some of you appear to have history with Strahd. What is he like? He seems to have more information about us than we do of him, given the circumstances,   he gestures to the carriage they are riding in,   and that is never a smart place from which to start an attack.  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   Some of you appear to have history with Strahd. What is he like? He seems to have more information about us than we do of him, given the circumstances,   he gestures to the carriage they are riding in,   and that is never a smart place from which to start an attack.   
 

  "I have never met the man. All I have heard of are rumours and legend; and even those were hard to come by for a man of my means and connections. It would seem..."   Zinro paused, annoyed.   "That he possesses powers greater than I had anticipated. As you say, he seems to be able to trap us here, and knows our current whereabouts. Given his control over the mists surrounding this place, and his knowledge of our location, I'm sure he would be well aware of our attempt to scale his castle. I do believe he wishes to meet with us."   Zinro tried to hide the trepidation in his voice, but instead decided to switch tactic and speak on a subject he was more confident with.   "As a nobleman myself, I would be happy to lead our little party's side of the meeting. I have had the pleasure of both entertaining and being entertained by powerful lords. There are certain etiquettes to follow that would take too long to explain to everyone here."  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
  I do believe he wishes to meet with us,   Zinro says.

Asha considers this,   Then this may be like a game to him. He must feel confident that he has nothing to fear from an attack. It should be an interesting meeting.  

Zinro continues,   As a nobleman myself, I would be happy to lead our little party's side of the meeting. I have had the pleasure of both entertaining and being entertained by powerful lords. There are certain etiquettes to follow that would take too long to explain to everyone here.  
  For my part, I'd like to get a measure of his military power, and the defenses of his castle.I'll follow your lead, but let's keep these things in mind.  
TaiLiu
Yikkol considers her companions's words with a scowl.

"Fine, fine. We'll pretend to be guests of this egotistic bloodsucker and then we'll find the treasures when he goes to sleep."

Assuming that this isn't all a trap, she thinks, but this she keeps to herself.

"Should we try the basement first, then? It'd be closer to ground-level."
Waistcoatwill
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert politely declines the offered food.   "I'm trying to eat less these days."  
 

Bori takes the remaining pasty back with a smile and a quiet word.  I kinda let my sweet tooth get the better of me with those. I can make some much healthier snacks that are still packed with flavour tomorrow! 

As the coach sets off he pulls out to the side finally noticing the form of Rue perched on top. He gives a little wave and calls up to her.

 Fancy a snack? Home made this morning. Tasty if I say so myself.  He pauses for an answer and tosses up the little bag if Rue is interested.

Unable to cope with both silence and company he tries ti strike up conversation.

 We're not ones for beng driven about, Nethis likes the feel of the wind when she's here.  It isn't quite clear what he means by "here"   Grew up nomads on open plains. Only one town in the whole place. We'd not been inside a wall-house until I was twelve. Still prefer the outdoors. Can't complain about feather beds though.

What about you? Prefer travelling taking the world instead of being in a box as well? 
dangelo
   
Despite the lack of horses to pull the black carriage, the vehicle moved on its own without any problems. It shook on its hinges and dragged uphill carrying those who had climbed aboard; Still it was slow enough that anyone on foot would be able to keep up.

It was a long stride along the side of the valley, allowing the company to glimpse the province of Barovia from above. Overhead, the skies seemed to react to their attitude, to their raised chins and puffed chests. How dare, come into the domains of dread armed with  courage ... Dark storm clouds gathered in the sky above the castle, almost drawn to its spires. Thin rain touched their faces, growing thicker by the minute. The village and Madam Eva's tent would still be visible from thousands of feet above, if they hadn't been engulfed by the Mist.

Before them, a stone bridge closed the gap to the castle on the cliffside. An archway of meticulous stonework stretched over the entrance, flanked by watchtowers. Suspended above was a huge portcullis, formidable blend of iron and oak. The archway displayed the following words in the common tongue:

  "Abandon all hope ye who enter here."  
Beyond, the stone bridge lead into an inner courtyard, and further away, to the double doors of the main entrance. The castle keep was a mighty bulwark of grey stone, rising proud behind several layers of battlements. Higher above, two towers pierced the clouds, one thicker than the other, connected by a bridge halfway to the top. The Spires of Ravenloft disappeared amist the night sky, illuminated only briefly by a chain of purple lightning that struck the skies above.

[Arcana CD 15] Castle Ravenloft had no magical barriers or traps on its main entrance; In fact, the way in was almost an invitation. The entrance spilled warm light, which flooded the courtyard; Above the entrance, a round window with shards of broken glass lodged in its iron frame could be seen.

[Perception CD 15]But a different passageway drew their attention, almost hidden by overgrown ivy: going around the keep, one would find secondary service entries on either side of the courtyard. They seemed to lead to yet another enclosed courtyard, but in the dark of the night it was impossible to discern what lay ahead. Both passageways were blocked by heavy iron porticullises. Despite having endured several centuries of rusting, these metal gratings stood sturdy as ever.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Raising a porticullis requires a Strength check DC 15; Since we're not under time pressure right now, any character with Strength 15 or above can immediately success if they wish. If you were in a combat situation, for example, that would still require an action and a Strength check (not Save!)
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro kept his eyes firmly inside the carriage as it wound it's way up the cliffside. More than once he would close his eyes, breathe deeply, and clench his fists into his knees. He was so preoccupied with saving face, he didn't even notice the archway and the it's warning as they passed through it.

When at last the carriage stopped, he took another deep breath and stepped out; Dot scurrying beneath his cloak to hide from the rain.

He took a moment to appreciate the awesome spectacle of the castle; but was perturbed by the lack of visible guards. He appreciated that Strahd was a vampire, but surely he would have guards, if only for decorum?

He turned to the group.

  "I believe, in keeping with etiquette, we should approach and knock on the front door. I understand there are some here with a personal grudge against the lord of this castle, but we should remain polite and accept whatever hospitality we are given. As I mentioned before, if you wish, I can lead the conversation."  

Zinro ushers the party into whatever cover the main double doors provide and casts Prestidigitation to clean everyone's clothes and boots before knocking on the doors.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Would it not be an Athletics check to raise a portcullis? Not that it matters to Zinro, who won't be lifting anything 😁
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

Yikkol considers her companions's words with a scowl.

"Fine, fine. We'll pretend to be guests of this egotistic bloodsucker and then we'll find the treasures when he goes to sleep. Should we try the basement first, then? It'd be closer to ground-level."

  I think we will know better what course to take once we've met with Strahd and have seen what there is to be seen.
  
As the carriage progresses, Asha does his best to peer out the carriage windows. The height, cliffside, chokepoint at the stone bridge, all of it made for a perfect location to man a castle. And yet, there was no one manning the castle as far as Asha could see, and moreso...

  I don't see or sense any magical defenses. There's no arcane barriers or traps to prevent infiltration. The castle looks formidable, but it's almost inviting anyone to go in.  

Zinro speaks up,   I believe, in keeping with etiquette, we should approach and knock on the front door. I understand there are some here with a personal grudge against the lord of this castle, but we should remain polite and accept whatever hospitality we are given. As I mentioned before, if you wish, I can lead the conversation.  
  As good a plan as any for right now,   Asha says as Zinro uses magic to make them more presentable.
TaiLiu
“Yes, all right,” Yikkol says to the drow nobleman. “But if this goes poorly, I told you so.”

As Zinro knocks, Yikkol glances at everyone else and silently points up to the highest tower of Castle Ravenloft. They’d found the location of the first treasure.
truemane
 ON THE RIDE UP 

 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 As the coach sets off he pulls out to the side finally noticing the form of Rue perched on top. He gives a little wave and calls up to her.

 Fancy a snack? Home made this morning. Tasty if I say so myself.  He pauses for an answer and tosses up the little bag if Rue is interested. 
 

Surprised out her (extremely dark and self-absorbed) reverie, Rue looks down at the little cake with some mistrust. She reached down with her long spindly arm and picked it up. Her fingers, too, are almost impossibly long and moved with dexterous ease.

She smelled the cake. Looked at the rider.

"I do not eat much. And even then, almost always something I've just caught. Live and raw and steaming."

She paused and frowned. Realized that was  not  a very smooth conversational opener.

 No wonder you have no friends. 

She tried a friendly smile. It had been some time since she smiled (or had a friend) and she did not do a very good job.

"Thank you," she said, "I have no eaten a proper baked good in many years."

She took a little bite. And then another. She nibbled at it as they rode.


  We're not ones for being driven about, Nethis likes the feel of the wind when she's here.  It isn't quite clear what he means by "here"   Grew up nomads on open plains. Only one town in the whole place. We'd not been inside a wall-house until I was twelve. Still prefer the outdoors. Can't complain about feather beds though.

What about you? Prefer travelling taking the world instead of being in a box as well?  

Rue eyed the rider with some suspicion. She was not used to people just making conversation with her like she was anyone.

"Preference does come to it. I wander because I have no home. And if ever I stop to make a home, I am either driven out because...."

She bared her fangs for a moment before retracting them again.

"...of that. Or because horrible misfortune follows me and destroys everyone I care for. But..." she smiled a bit, to herself, it was more successful than her last attempt. "...for all that, I would rather be outside rather than in a box."

She paused.

"Nethis? Is this the name of your steed? I've seen his like before, but many, many years ago and far, far from here. I've never seen such a creature tamed and brought to harness. How came such a thing? Is this common where you are from?"

She stopped. That was maybe too many questions.

 AT THE CASTLE 
Rue jumped down when the carriage stopped and examined the entrance. When focused, she walked almost like a beast: hunched over and nearly on all fours. She seemed to scent the air as she walked.

She follows Yikkol's eyes up to the tower. She could climb up there. Part of her wanted to, thinking maybe she could quickly grab the treasure and bring it back to her new-found companions.

But she feared that, if she went anywhere alone here, Strahd would find her. Instantly. And she wasn't sure what would happen then.

"This is going to go badly," she said to Yikkol. "And no one will blame you. It will be my fault. Strahd knows I'm here, I'm sure of it. He's been waiting for me. It was selfish of me to allow you all to accompany me."
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "This is going to go badly," she said to Yikkol. "And no one will blame you. It will be my fault. Strahd knows I'm here, I'm sure of it. He's been waiting for me. It was selfish of me to allow you all to accompany me." 
 

“Strahd knows all of us are here,” said Yikkol, oblivious to Rue’s familial conundrum and dour mood. “Hence the carriage ride.”

“In any case, I came of my own volition. We’re both accompanying each other.” She grins, and Rue can see her tusks and teeth. “Together, Strahd is as good as dead.”
Waistcoatwill
 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
  ON THE RIDE UP 
"Thank you," she said, "I have no eaten a proper baked good in many years."

She took a little bite. And then another. She nibbled at it as they rode. 
 

Bori grins widely as she nibbles.  I was used to this one's feeding habits for years, don't worry about it. I'll try for something a little more to your tastes next time. 

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Rue eyed the rider with some suspicion. She "Nethis? Is this the name of your steed? I've seen his like before, but many, many years ago and far, far from here. I've never seen such a creature tamed and brought to harness. How came such a thing? Is this common where you are from?" 
 

Bori's eyes twinkle and Nethis almost seems to be grinning.  She's not tame, we're bonded. Our spirits are linked via my mask. It allows us to work together more closely in life. When we die our souls together have the strength to return from the Realm of the Dead and guide the living. 

His hand reaches down to pat Nethis' neck subconsciously and a look of buried grief briefly passes across his face.

 In the plains tribes, every halfling adolescent is bonded to a companion. I was training to be a Mask Weaver when my Mark appeared and off I toddled to join.House Ghallanda in the lands of town-dwellers. Both do honourable work serving the community, mind. Ghallanda just miss out the last past of "mind, body and spirit" and charge for their work. That's enough gassing from me though, we're here! 
 AT THE CASTLE 
Bori makes no move to dismount as the others step out of the coach. He nods approval of Zinro's plan to take the lead when meeting this creature Strahd.

 I've no airs or graces to speak of, but I've spent years talking soldiers out of taking chunks out of each other. If things get tense I'll lend a hand, try to lower the temperature a bit. 

He rolls up his sleeves in a manner more reminiscent of a bar tender than a soldier. A shining blue-green pattern draws all eyes to his.left forearm, giving off waves of calm and comfort even at a distance.  When the inevitable happens I can provide a limited sanctuary against offensive magics if folk can get in close. 
 
 Spoiler: Mark of Hospitality 
 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 He rolls up his sleeves in a manner more reminiscent of a bar tender than a soldier. A shining blue-green pattern draws all eyes to his.left forearm, giving off waves of calm and comfort even at a distance.  When the inevitable happens I can provide a limited sanctuary against offensive magics if folk can get in close.  
 

Yikkol, ever the pessimist, immediately sidles up to the halfling.
truemane
Rue listened as the others discussed strategy. Until she met others, she had a very simple plan: run into the castle at top speed until she stood before the Devil and attack with her every ounce of fury until one of them was dead forever.

 These are smart people. And their strategy makes it more likely Strahd will be the one doing the dying. 

Why then did it feel so wrong? That someone it robbed the enterprise of its purity?

"I just realized," she said to Bori, "That until this very moment, I wanted to die fighting Strahd more than I wanted to kill him."

Pause.

"I think, perhaps, that's what I've always wanted."

Pause.

"Perhaps even what I still want."

Longer pause.

"That means I must change or perish. And that means, no matter the outcome of this endeavour, I die tonight. And either someone other than me walks away. No no one does."
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha stands, hands clasped behind his back, listening to the others as they await a response to Zinro's knock at the door. Diplomacy is an integral part of war, but the halfling riding the dinosaur is surely the strangest diplomat Asha has ever seen. In any event, he doubts that Lord Zinro or Bori could prevent a confrontation with Rue present. She seems to be a wild card, and could attack Strahd on sight based on her own admissions and disposition. Each time she speaks, Asha can feel the Bionoid pulsing, calling to be summoned to protect. No, not protect. To fight. The Bionoid relishes combat. Asha focuses his will against the entity, and quietly says to Rue,  It is very likely this is a trap, and if it is we don't want to spring it. We all have a better chance to get what we want, including Strahd's death, if we play this game by our own rules. The best thing to do now is let Lord Zinro and Bori speak. We'll get what information there is to glean, and use it to devise a strategy and a plan. And then when the time comes, I'll hold the vampire down myself and let you tear him apart. 
 
 
  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

As the party discusses a diplomatic approach, Herbert offers his advice.   "I have substantial experience dealing with the nobility and the expected social niceties.  It may differ from those among the drow, and I haven't met any who are vampires, though.  I'm going to guess he will have arrogance and high-handedness, but also a certain amount of respect for those who show a spine and clearly value their own worth.  Speak with confidence, or if you cannot be confident, be silent."

"I would also avoid bragging about our capabilities.  He may be able to tell that I serve Pelor, and know some things from that, but we don't want to give away anything we could use a surprise later.  Besides that, over-explaining is for inferiors reporting to a superior.  However, if he is sufficiently arrogant, maybe we can ask some open-ended questions to get him talking.  Why is he letting us approach him?  What parts of the castle is he wanting us to see?  Don't bring up fighting him.  That can be safely assumed, and stating the obvious is boorish behavior.

"Aside from a few friends, when I attended a major social event, I would have one or more goals in mind.  We are meeting with an apparently powerful vampire who has invited us into his home.  What specific pieces of information do we want to tease out about him and his castle?  What specific behaviors should we encourage?  Do we want him to offer us a tour?  Should we speak with contempt about fools who seek one on one duels, to encourage him to face us only as a group?" 

Perhaps his "wasted" time spent on prestige and funding wasn't completely wasted.  Maybe Pelor was preparing him for this.
Waistcoatwill
Bori quietly listens to Rue, letting her finish before opening up his posture. A hug is clearly waiting for her should she want.

 When we suffer we want the pain to end, and death can seem the simplest way. A life without pain even seems scary when pain is all you know. I don't know what happens when someone dies on your world, but I can't imagine suffering stops after death here. If anything, it might put you more in his power.

In the Realm of the Dead in my world, spirits wither and forget, fading into nothing. My people chose to fight that, we bond with our companions, giving us the strength to resist the withering and preserve our senses of self. Our spirits merge, but we can return to the world. The spirits of the ancestors can then help of guide generations to come. 

His knuckles go white as he grips his mask tightly in one hand and squeezes the shoulder of Nethis with the other.

 I think pain and change are inevitable, put letting Strahd kill you would doesn't protect you from either. If we bond together we may have the strength to defeat him. Afterwards, if nothing else, we can help each other, make our worlds less painful even. That's worth a try even if it more complicated, more scary, than just letting the pain end. 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 As the party discusses a diplomatic approach, Herbert offers his advice. 
 

"Brilliant advice, your holiness," Yikkol says, a look of reverent concentration on her face. "We'll trust whatever decision you make. I'm sure the Fates—er, Pelor—will ensure that whatever you choose is right."
dangelo
     
 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. 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.
 
 
 Spoiler 
The POV of the image is the top of the wide staircase to the north. The right side of the image actually points west, where you're coming from.
Credits to Beneos Battlemaps.
 
TaiLiu
When Bori enters the castle, Yikkol will follow uncomfortably close behind him. She keeps an eye and an ear out for traps or signs of trouble.

“The stairs? We do have to go up to the high tower…”

Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori is tending to Nethis with his own Prestidigitation as Zinro circulates the group.  Sorted, thanks. I'll give you a hand when I'm done. 

As they enter the castle Bori makes no move to dismount, nor does it even seem to have crossed his mind. His shoulders hunch slightly as they cross the threshold, as if taking some of the weight of the stone above. He frowns at all if the decay and gives an involuntary shudder.

He turns around in his saddle as Yikkol sidles up close to him, a wry grin just about breaking through the discomfort.  Feel free to stay as close as you like  just watch out for the tail.  Nethis seems to **** her head slightly before feignting a lash with her tail. An oddly muffled hissing sound issues from her as she turns her head forwards. Bori rolls his eyes and gives a small shrug of apology.  She thinks she's funny
 

He looks around the avenues open to them.  It's no gold carpet, but I assume we're expected to head towards the music. Herbert, Zinro, do you think we have to? 
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4  
 
  
As Rue entered the warm stifling confines of the castle, she suddenly realized she not want to be there. Confront Strahd? Definitely. Kill or die in the attempt? Yes.

But this castle already felt like a coffin. And the air already felt hot and heavy around her.

She wasn't sure how she was going to make it through this.

She nodded and pointed toward the staircase.

"We know we must go up. So we should maybe do that first."
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha steps in with the others, hands still clasped behind his back as if standing at attention. The dust and cobwebs tell the same story as the vacant parapets and turrets outside, but the lit torches tell another story still. Asha's eyes follow the flickering shadows up to the top of the vaulted ceiling, where eight gargoyles sit squat, watching from above.   Hmm,   he notes quietly.

  If we are meant to meet with Strahd, I say we follow the music.  
 
 
  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
 "Music requires an audience.  If it's an audience of one... who else would it be?  The foretelling said we would fight the count in his Throneroom, so finding him in a music room may bode well for our chances of delaying battle." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro attempted to put on an air of confidence, despite his unease. They really should have encountered a butler or porter by now, or even just a door guard. That was standard etiquette.

  "We should follow the music: much like the carriage, I am sure it is a subtle invitation for us to follow."  

(OOC: I believe that's 4 votes for following the music, so I guess we do that?)
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 He turns around in his saddle as Yikkol sidles up close to him, a wry grin just about breaking through the discomfort.  Feel free to stay as close as you like  just watch out for the tail.  Nethis seems to **** her head slightly before feignting a lash with her tail. An oddly muffled hissing sound issues from her as she turns her head forwards. Bori rolls his eyes and gives a small shrug of apology.  She thinks she's funny.  
 

Yikkol smiles back. Unlike her grin to Rue, this one is friendly. She pats Nethis as the party continues forward.


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Music requires an audience.  If it's an audience of one... who else would it be?  The foretelling said we would fight the count in his Throneroom, so finding him in a music room may bode well for our chances of delaying battle."  
 

“Brilliant deduction, your holiness. I’m sure you’re right. To the music room!”
dangelo
Turning south on the Great Entry, the company was greeted by a vaulted hall where torchlight danced enigmatically against the walls. To the  east , an arched hallway stretched for twenty feet, ending at a spiral staircase that went up and down. Next to the hallway stood a suit of armor oiled and gleaming, an enigmatic sentinel in its shallow alcove. To the  west , large double doors hung slightly open, and a steady bright light escaped through the opening. Swells of organ music came from behind the doors, spilling their melody of power and defeat into the hall.

Crystal chandeliers illuminated this magnificent chamber. In the center, a solid wood dinner table displayed a feast worthy of kings: Spit-roasted boar, honey-glazed turnips, barley bread, salads of fresh greens an herbs, bowls of fresh fruit, cheese platters, flagons of wine, lemon cakes and sweet pastries, and many other dishes that were hard to distinguish in that burst of color and aroma. Places were set for each of the six outsiders with fine, delicate china and silver neatly displayed according to etiquette.

At the center of the far west wall, between floor-to-ceiling mirrors, stood a massive organ. Its pipes blared out a thunderous melody that spoke in its tone of greatness and despair. Seated at the organ, facing away from the table, a single caped figure pounded the keys in raptured ecstasy.

The figure suddenly stopped; Deep silence fell over the dining hall. Slowly, Strahd von Zarovich turned toward his guests. His face was earnest and noble, a face that once had been handsome, but was now tainted by a trace of cruelty. His eyes initially seemed to glimmer, yet their luster had faded with age, rendering them dry and timeworn. His once-lustrous black hair, swept back into a ponytail, hung dull and lifeless like straw. His complexion, pale and cold. Only his lips retained a vestige of color: vivid, bright crimson.

"Greetings, all." His gravitas filled the room with assertive presence. The hint of a smirk hung to the corner of his mouth. "I see you are capable of proper manners, after all. I am Strahd von Zarovich, Prince of Barovia and lord of this castle."

Although he inspected each of the visitors with caution, his attention fell on Rue. "Ah, little one. I see you have come to take your rightful place by my side. This is a pleasant surprise." He stood up and opened his cloak in an invitation. "Come, then. Your entourage is no longer necessary - we can feed them to my other children. They get hungrier every night."
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha noted the other passages, and the gleaming armor adorning an alcove in the hall. He and the others walk into the hall to a roaring crescendo and, as if on cue, the music stops when they enter. Strahd turns to regard them all and greets them, hinting that he had indeed set them up to find him, and proving the vampire had a flair for the dramatic. A large dining table is set in the middle of the room, with a feast awaiting them.

The vampire's gaze turns to Rue, "Ah, little one. I see you have come to take your rightful place by my side. This is a pleasant surprise." He stands up and opens his cloak in an invitation. "Come, then. Your entourage is no longer necessary - we can feed them to my other children. They get hungrier every night."

The bionoid is pulsing, begging to be let out to end the threat. Asha ignores it, remaining still, standing at attention with his hands clasped behind him. Only his eyes flick over to Rue, wondering what she will do.

 
 
  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was actually put relatively at ease by the display Strahd had put on for them - the fact that the Count had laid out such food, expecting them, suggested that he wasn't about to kill them immediately. Zinro immediately began to work through all the social angles he could play, drawing from his time amongst the Drow nobility. Greeting, followed by polite demand veiled as an innocent question, was the angle he decided on. The important thing was to try and establish a dominant position in the conversation - make the other person ask more questions and give more answers, and such. That said, the fact Strahd knew so much about them already had them on the backfoot.

  "Our greetings to you, Count Strahd von Zarovich. I am Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan. May we be seated?"  
J-H
Herbert remains silent for a moment, silently praying that Pelor would strengthen Rue's heart and fill her with light.
Waistcoatwill
Bori nudges Nethis ever so slightly towards Rue, ensuring she is enveloped in the aura from his Mark.

 Take her place by your side? I was wondering about the seating plan, Count, thank you. Do you mind if I sit on your other side Rue?  

He continues to ignore studiously ignore the threat to their lives.

 What a wonderful spread, and such excellent mood music. House Ghallanda would appreciate your talents. 

He whispers under his breath whilst turned to look at the table.  You are strong, he can't control you, not even your rage. 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 

A smile plays on the corners of Asha's eyes.  Clever, Bori,  he thinks to himself.

 
 
  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was quietly impressed with Bori's response. He was taking charge of the conversation and attempting to steer it in a direction advantageous to the party. It was a shame Zinro hadn't spend longer strategizing this social combat with Bori earlier - a two-pronged assault against a singular host divided their attention and made them more prone to social faux pas. Zinro made a mental note to attempt to sit as far away from Bori as possible in order to maximise the effort the Count would need to expend to respond to both of them.
TaiLiu
Fates. Finally, after all these years, she found him—her mother’s killer. And he was ignoring her. How dare he! Yikkol clenched her fists and let Bori’s calming aura wash over her.

How much she would love to sink a crossbow bolt into that bloodsucker’s heart. But she had been an adventurer long enough to know to stick with the plan. Deviation could mean death. And she couldn’t die. Not this close.

But… Talking wasn’t against the plan, right? As she scoots her chair uncomfortably close to Bori’s, she says: “A sad ruse, Strahd. Rue is no bloodsucker. She’s one of us.”
dangelo
The vampire lord revealed himself to be taller than it had seemed at first, sitting on the bench by the organ. When he raised to his full height, well over seven feet tall, the dinner room seemed to shrink in comparison. His cloak of shadows dragged behind him, resembling the wings of a huge bat. His doublet had once been the finest fabric gold could buy, now reduced to a mere shadow of its beauty. His boots and gloves, fur-lined black leather. A knightly longsword adorned with emeralds rested on his hip.

Strahd would've appeared to be a true king, would he wear a proper crown.

 Take her place by your side? I was wondering about the seating plan, Count, thank you. Do you mind if I sit on your other side Rue?  
 What a wonderful spread, and such excellent mood music. House Ghallanda would appreciate your talents. 

Strahd's eyes shifted to Bori, but most of the words said by the halfling blew straight past him. He arched one brow, the smirk vanishing from his lips. "What is this hideous beast that serves you as a mount, half-man?" Disgust crossed his face. "You certainly don't expect your host to clean after this...  monstrocity ?"

  "Our greetings to you, Count Strahd von Zarovich. I am Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan. May we be seated?"  

"Sit down and eat - You must grow fat and juicy for my children to feed well." He insisted, and added as an afterthought: "The lizard shall be put down."

Strahd beckoned at Rue. "Join me, childe. Let us withdraw to my cold chambers."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "I am sure you have servants to clean your home, Count. Or magic to do it for you."   Zinro mentioned, sitting as far away from Strahd as was possible.

Once seated, he helped himself to some nearby salad. He also produced his Tankard of Sobriety from his Bag of Holding and placed it on the table. He made a show of examining one of the nearby bottles of wine, before uncorking it and pouring himself a measure of it into his Tankard.

  "Indeed, I have yet to see another soul besides yourself in this castle."   He thought for a moment.   "Ah, but you mentioned your children. Do you have many?"  

OOC: The Tankard of Sobriety negates the effects of non-magical alcohol drunk from it, but magical alcohol and other poisons work as normal
TaiLiu
Yikkol stares incredulously at Zinro. Did he not hear what Strahd just said? Why was Zinro continuing with the small talk?

"Change of plans," Yikkol hisses at the party. "We're all gonna get eaten if we keep this up."

Still sitting, she draws her heavy crossbow, steadies herself, and aims for the vampire's neck.

Attack with Steady Aim:  (2d20)[ 3 ][ 7 ](10)  plus 9. (EDIT: 7+9=16 on her attack.)
Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 11 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 13 ]  magical piercing damage. (EDIT: 11+13=24 magical piercing damage.)
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 

There was a moment, and not a small moment, when Rue seriously considered Strahd's offer. She thought she had spent her life enduring his attempts to kill her and drive her away. But in that moment, when he so casually offered her a place by his side, it occurred to her that maybe he was driving her toward him? Punishing her for leaving and trying to convince her to return?

Her heart is mostly filled with loneliness, just tainted and soured and perverted and churned into hate.

But could she have a home? A real home? Here? With him?

But first Bori, and then Yikkol's words, gave her just enough pause for thought to realize that, whever she was, the thing over there was no father. No friend. No mentor. No lord. Unliving she may be, but that bloated cancer was undead. And there was nothing in its heart but darkness.

"As if I would ever join you!" she screamed at Strahd, her prior placid demeanuor crumbling, "Would ever sit with you! Drink with you! Serve you and sit at your feet! I won't have a moment's rest until you are destroyed. Or I am."

She prowled around the room, putting herself between the Devil and her new companions. 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
"You certainly don't expect your host to clean after this...  monstrocity ?"

Bori laughs softly and pats Nethis's neck.  Monstrosity? See, I told you I was the pretty one.  Nethis yawns at Strahd, showing teeth.

"Sit down and eat - You must grow fat and juicy for my children to feed well." He insisted, and added as an afterthought: "The lizard shall be put down."

Bori's eyebrows raise questioningly.  Hmm, whoever does your guest list isn't as well informed as you thought, I'm afraid ....*TWANG* Bori sighs, allowing his hands to relax down to his sides, and waits for the response.
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Indeed, I have yet to see another soul besides yourself in this castle."   He thought for a moment.   "Ah, but you mentioned your children. Do you have many?"   
 

"You will have plenty a chance to meet my children, Lord Zinro. Yes, they are many - nowadays, they're the only ones keeping me company in this castle. It gets lonely in Barovia... Don't you see I'm but a poor man?" His smile widened into a shark's grin, almost too wide to be on a human face.



 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Hmm, whoever does your guest list isn't as well informed as you thought, I'm afraid ....*TWANG* Bori sighs, allowing his hands to relax down to his sides, and waits for the response. 
 

"Oh, but I know exactly who you are, half-man. I know the fear in your hearts, all of you... Your souls are open books to my mind. I delight myself in your guilt... Your remorse... Your nightmares... The memories that keep you up at night... It's all in the  blood ." He licked his lips like a hungry dog salivating for meat.



 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Still sitting, she draws her heavy crossbow, steadies herself, and aims for the vampire's neck. 
 

The bolt flew straight to the vampire's neck, splattering some of his blood on the pipes of the organ behind him. Strahd stood in place for a moment, completely still, before he reached for the projectile and yanked it off his flesh. It had left a deep puncture in his cold body, but the wound was already regenerating, and at incredible speed.

"I guess you didn't have proper manners, after all."



 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "As if I would ever join you!" she screamed at Strahd, her prior placid demeanuor crumbling, "Would ever sit with you! Drink with you! Serve you and sit at your feet! I won't have a moment's rest until you are destroyed. Or I am."

She prowled around the room, putting herself between the Devil and her new companions. 
 

"I see." The vampire said with said patience. "You shall understand, in time. For now... shield them from me, if you must. But you shan't shield their souls from my eyes... You are alone in Barovia. In the silence of the night, you will hear the whispers of the damned, and the howling winds will be your only companions. Your courage will wane, and your hope will wither like a dying rose. You may fight, you may struggle, but in the end, you will come to realize the futility of your endeavors."

"So, my dear guests, know this: you are alone in my realm, and I am the darkness that surrounds you. Embrace your fear, for it will be your constant companion, and remember that there is no escape from the grasp of Strahd von Zarovich."
TaiLiu
Yikkol watched Strahd's wound close up in morbid fascination (and, she would admit to herself later, dread). She had not anticipated the great deal of effort it would take to overcome the vampire's regeneration.

She refused to show fear in front of her mother's killer. Besides, he'd finally acknowledged her. Progress happens in slow, bloody steps.

"What do you really want?" Yikkol said. "If you just wanted to feed your 'children,' you have a whole village down there." She gestures broadly at a nearby window. "Did you just invite us here to tell us how great you are?"
dangelo
"Those people are broken. Their blood would never satisfy my hunger. Your hearts, however, are still full of courage. It will be a delight to break you." He clasped his hand into a fist in the air. "Still you won't eat? If you think it is poisoned, you know me not. Poison is a coward's weapon. Lords kill with their own hands."
TaiLiu
Yikkol stared dumbly at the faces of Zinro and Herbert, as if to say: Is this how all nobles talk? Regardless, she was adapting to the odd social circumstances. * 

"I'm not hungry," Yikkol said, "but I am a bit tired. I'm sure killing us will be much more satisfying if our hearts are also full of vigor. Could you show us to our rooms?"

 *   In her companions' eyes, perhaps too slowly. :P 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

Herbert raises an eyebrow at this talk of souls.  He hasn't sat down at the table yet... this isn't going to be a long meal.   "Souls?  Do you consider yourself to be a god, to know the hearts of others?  All have failings and fears.  It is how they are dealt with, not that they exist, that determines one's measure.  Surely you have experienced regret and doubt, unless you are a paragon of inerrant perfection or an emotionless automaton.  I can tell that you are, at least, not the latter."

"As for darkness?  Recall that it is defined and bounded by the mere absence of  light .  Of itself, darkness is nothing, except what fear makes it out to be." 
As Herbert says the word light, he casts  Thaumaturgy  and the candle-flames in the chandeliers lighting the room brighten to almost daylight intensity.

 
 Spoiler 

Thaumaturgy is Vocal only.  It's a mere brightening effect and can't do any damage.
 

 "You have invited us here and offered us food.  As someone from a different land, please share enlighten me as to how far your hospitality extends, given the long-term intent you have shared.
You wanted us here.  Are there particular areas you wish for outside eyes to see?  Artwork or histories that are wasted if none look upon them?  A chapel in need of re-consecration?" 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro had leapt to his feet at the sound of the crossbow being fired. He immediately began to formulate what best possible strategy he might have in this moment. Turn invisible and then lob fireballs at the host? Were vampires even weak to fire? In the time he was thinking of his response, Zinro was surprised that the hall hadn't filled with guards or magically summoned minions. It was just Strahd, and despite the attack on him, still carried himself politely. Zinro tried desperately to think of a new plan; but was glad that Herbert had taken centre stage for the time being.

Telepathically, Zinro communicated to Dot:    "Climb down from me and make your way over to the green woman named Yikkol and gently climb the back of her leg. Stay there for now and do not bite her."    

OOC: Spider has 20ft speed, so Dot would dash over to Yikkol if necessary.
Waistcoatwill
Bori blood ran cold and st Strahd's words and it was all he could do nit to  clutch at his mask protectively. Somehow he knew that Strahd meant to destroy it along with Nethis' current physical form. His mark was useless for comforting himself, but cold reptilian focus flowed through his bond, easing his thundering heart.

He had to focus on something else, nit ker Strahdunder his skin.  Only you and your children you say, then who made all of the food?  He leans over the table, swinging his mark over the assembled dishes before picking a dish to inspect closely.  Considering how house proud you were in the hall I'd have to worry about the state of your kitchens. 
 Living in a faded grandeur must be a choice for someone with all of your power, no? Why make yourself suffer? Are we here to ease that in some way?  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
He casts Purify Food and Drink on thr table in front of him.
Inspecting the food  (1d20)[ 9 ]  plus 8 plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  if proficiency with cooking utensils help identify any shenanigans
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 

A bolt is let loose and the quarrel embeds itself into Strahd's neck. Asha's eyes narrow,   Is this all over that quickly?   he thinks to himself.

The Count hardly reacts, casually pulling the quarrel out of his flesh, the wound stitching itself back together.

Asha lets his hands fall loose to his sides, unsure what will happen next, but the group has confirmed three things so far; Strahd's arrogance is supported by power, they will likely need the items the fortune teller had told them to acquire, and Yikkol is not afraid to take action.
 
 
  
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4  
 
  
Rue watched with dreadful fascination as the arrow flew and struck its target. Joy leaped in her heart as the Devil's blood flowed. She made ready to hurl herself into the fray, to join the combat with these strange people and do her part to destroy the Devil or perish in the trying.

But then...

He pulled the arrow. It did no lasting harm. And the conversation continued.

His words to her cut her deeply. She was already choking on the oppressive stillness of the air within the castle. Her ears and heart and mind were already filled with a deep, nameless dread that she could not ignore.

She was already convinced that she would die this night.

But what she felt in this moment was mostly frustration.

She sat one chair closer to Strahd than the nearest of her companions. Then sitting felt unnatural so she gave a small jump and perched on the chair with both feet (like an animal might).

"Why, then, Devil?" she said, her voice low and rasping, "Why this? Why the theatre? You know we aim to destroy you. Either we can do this or we cannot. Why sit and toy with us with this mockery of civility?"

That was more words than she'd spoken in some time. She wasn't even sure what she wanted the answer to be.
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "I'm not hungry," Yikkol said, "but I am a bit tired. I'm sure killing us will be much more satisfying if our hearts are also full of vigor. Could you show us to our rooms?" 
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "You have invited us here and offered us food.  As someone from a different land, please share enlighten me as to how far your hospitality extends, given the long-term intent you have shared. You wanted us here.  Are there particular areas you wish for outside eyes to see?  Artwork or histories that are wasted if none look upon them?  A chapel in need of re-consecration?"  
 

"So be it!" Another shark grin crossed Strahd's face. "Head straight to the chapel, where the Morninglord shall forgive you for your sins. There, take the stairway down to the Guest Chambers. You'll find clean sheets and fresh towels, and servants to draw you a bath."


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Living in a faded grandeur must be a choice for someone with all of your power, no? Why make yourself suffer? Are we here to ease that in some way?   
 

" Faded grandeur , you say... Why, I am certain these hallways will change your mind. But you are not wrong, my dear guest: You  are  here to ease my suffering. It gets lonely in Barovia, and I need entertainment. A king has his fools."


 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "Why, then, Devil?" she said, her voice low and rasping, "Why this? Why the theatre? You know we aim to destroy you. Either we can do this or we cannot. Why sit and toy with us with this mockery of civility?" 
 

"O, the hope... The faith... The heat!" He watched Rue as if the girl was a fascinating piece of art. "Yes! You  can  destroy me! Try, for all the gods you worship, all who have turned their backs and abandoned you in my domain! Fight! Struggle! Make the world hear your battle cries, and finally die in a puddle of your own blood!"

"For all the Dark Powers that be...   Entertain me ."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "Head straight to the chapel, where the Morninglord shall forgive you for your sins. There, take the stairway down to the Guest Chambers. You'll find clean sheets and fresh towels, and servants to draw you a bath." 
 

The stairway  down  to the Guest Chambers - that was interesting; and somewhere below the castle was one of Madam Eva's mentioned treasures as well.

  "An excellent idea, Count Zarovich - I am sure we are all tired from our journey here and could do with a rest."   Zinro made a point of stressing this statement, almost as a plea to his companions.   "Please direct us to the chapel and we shall not bother you further."  
dangelo
Strahd made a wide arc gesture with his hand, and somewhere in the Great Entry the company could hear a set of double doors bursting open of a sudden. "Fly, then. Seek solace under the gaze of your false gods. Soon you'll realize that only the Dark Powers reign over Barovia... And you shall lose all faith."

As Bori used magic to inspect and purify the food, Strahd threw him another disgusted look. "You are indeed a sad creature: One physically incapable of manners." He shook his head in disdain. "Have some class, half-man. It is below me to poison you. No, your death shall be much slower than mere poisoning. I will destroy your courage, your passion, your faith, your hope. If you still worry about the food, then I might have overestimated your cunning. This might be less entertaining than I hoped. Still... We shall see what we shall see."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro kept a wide berth between himself and Strahd as he slowly headed in the direction of the chapel, making sure his companions were following - he didn't wish to venture anywhere by himself.
TaiLiu
Yikkol silently follows after, trying to walk careful enough not to knock Dot off of her. Once out of eyeshot, she offers her arm to the spider to climb up so it can get a better vantage point.

Then, once out of earshot: "Did you hear that bloodsucker?" Yikkol was fuming. "Didn't even try to taunt me with the death of my mother! What an awful man!"

Despite her outburst, Yikkol remembers the possible danger the party's in. She watches for possible traps and "children."

Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 28 ] .
Waistcoatwill
As they slowly leave the dining room, the distance between them and Strahd does little to settle his nerves

 Well, not breaking bread freely offered by a host is pretty bad luck, but I couldn't shake a dark legend from my mind. A there were rumours that a Ghallanda baler of old lost out in a love triangle with a local noble. Driven mad with jealousy, the Demon Baker killed their mutual beloved and sent the lordling pies made with the remains as a "peace offering"

Don't worry, I shan't let us go hungry. I might have to forage outside eventually though.
 

The vaulted ceilings above them and the dust and cobwebs that fill the corridors continue to unnerve him.  Why do people live in places like this? I've never seen a yurt look this like a Mausoleum. It's practically inviting the influence of the Realm of the Dead into the place! No wonder Strahd's a blood-drinker. 

He is particularly greatful to be surrounded by companions. But Nethis does her best to keep him alert after so.many threats.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perception with advantage  (1d20+5)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 The vaulted ceilings above them and the dust and cobwebs that fill the corridors continue to unnerve him.  Why do people live in places like this? I've never seen a yurt look this like a Mausoleum. It's practically inviting the influence of the Realm of the Dead into the place! No wonder Strahd's a blood-drinker.  
 

“Because of the castle?” Yikkol mulls on the idea for a moment. “Would changing this castle change Strahd, then? He’d be much easier to kill as a human, without his regenerative powers…”
Waistcoatwill
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 “Because of the castle?” Yikkol mulls on the idea for a moment. “Would changing this castle change Strahd, then? He’d be much easier to kill as a human, without his regenerative powers…” 
 

 These walls collect shadows and dread as much as dust and cobwebs.  

Bori ponders Yikkol's words in turn.  We all shape our surroundings and are shaped by them in turn. Changing the castle or Barovia might change Strahd, or maybe the other way around. If the castle were filled with light and joy, or we found something to bring him joy?...but I can't see that happening at all, let alone enough to make a difference. 
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4  
 
  
 
 Spoiler 

Nil
 

Every step Rue took was a misery to her. She was an emotional creature by nature, used to operating on barely comprehended instinct. But the emotions roiled up by the confrontation with Strahd were powerful. And confusing.

Anger. And hate. And frustration. And fear. But also a kind of deep, sharp, howling sadness she found hard to accept or ignore. As though the part of her that  wanted  to take that place by his side was more than a passing notion.

Confusion made her hungry. She had not fed in some time. She was starving now. Ravenous. She did not have a stomach, in the normal sense, but whatever strange process operated within her that sought, and processed, the warm blood of the living, was howling for relief.

It had been centuries since she had fed on a sentient being (one that didn't have it coming, anyway). But it had been almost that long since she had felt this level of deprivation.

"I know only a little," she said, as much to use words as a distraction from her hunger as anything else, "But the Vistani say that, in some way, Strahd is Borovia. That it is an extension of his cancerous soul. It is possible that all of this..." she gestures broadly, "Is only here because he is here. Because this is how he wants it. However much he may hate it."

A pause. A frown.

"Which means, when we destroy him, we may be destroying the castle. The valley. The town. The people. The Vistani."

Longer pause.

"And perhaps ourselves. If we put Strahd to the torch and Barovia vanishes. We may vanish too."
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha lets out a breath he did not know he was holding, as the conversation continues and no further violence occurs. The thought of a soul, of faith, and hope and despair had not crossed his mind in decades, perhaps over a century, as the life of a competent mercenary had made things simple and rote. He dared to think, no feel, deeper when he saw the shooting star, and now it has guided him here, to a great hall with all the performance of a melodrama. Yet Strahd was not merely performing, he is real. Asha has been to many planets, and interacted with seers of many kinds. He believes there is truth in the crone's words, in the beliefs of his would-be allies, and in the declarations of their host, Count Strahd.

This is a game to Strahd, but one that Asha and the others will have to play in order to gain their freedom, or whatever it is some of the others are seeking from this place. As the others move to leave, Asha speaks up to Strahd,   I've been to many worlds that look like Barovia, but have never encountered a feast like this among them. First impressions did not go the way we intended, I think, but if the Count permits, I'd like to take a plate with me as we retire to our quarters. Soldier's habits, to never let good food go to waste, and this seems like the finest I've laid eyes on in some time. I know we will be partaking in your hospitality in the days to come, but I'd like to begin tonight, as you intended.   
 
  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "Which means, when we destroy him, we may be destroying the castle. The valley. The town. The people. The Vistani."

Longer pause.

"And perhaps ourselves. If we put Strahd to the torch and Barovia vanishes. We may vanish too." 
 

Zinro didn't say anything, but quietly hoped that the pale child was simply being melodramatic. To have come all this way, just to be denied the ultimate prize, would be a cruel joke. Was Lolth punishing him for some misdeed? Perhaps.... perhaps the power of this dimension was tied not to Strahd directly, but to the lord of this castle? If that were so, Zinro's power would be more than he had anticipated - he could grow a land to rival... nay... surpass Menzoberranzan! Yes! That must be it! Strahd was no doubt a powerful vampire, but surely there was a greater power at work here that the creature was simply leeching off of, true to it's nature. That power would be Zinro's. Such a prize gave him renewed strength.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
 "Suffering, Count Strahd? You have a castle, wealth, and apparently servants and a domain to rule.  What source of suffering could there be which you cannot fix, if you desire?" 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  These walls collect shadows and dread as much as dust and cobwebs.  

Bori ponders Yikkol's words in turn.  We all shape our surroundings and are shaped by them in turn. Changing the castle or Barovia might change Strahd, or maybe the other way around. If the castle were filled with light and joy, or we found something to bring him joy?...but I can't see that happening at all, let alone enough to make a difference.  
 


 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "I know only a little," she said, as much to use words as a distraction from her hunger as anything else, "But the Vistani say that, in some way, Strahd is Borovia. That it is an extension of his cancerous soul. It is possible that all of this..." she gestures broadly, "Is only here because he is here. Because this is how he wants it. However much he may hate it."

A pause. A frown.

"Which means, when we destroy him, we may be destroying the castle. The valley. The town. The people. The Vistani."

Longer pause.

"And perhaps ourselves. If we put Strahd to the torch and Barovia vanishes. We may vanish too." 
 

Despite herself, Yikkol shudders.

"I hope you're wrong. Because if that's the case, we'd have no hope of killing him at all."
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Suffering, Count Strahd? You have a castle, wealth, and apparently servants and a domain to rule.  What source of suffering could there be which you cannot fix, if you desire?"  
 

"What a pertinent question, father." Strahd raised an index finger in the air. "You are right. Long ago, I conquered this valley with a small army of loyal men, and gave it to my family as a gift. Since then, my glory has seen no boundaries. What else could I want? Why, time is  relentless , and with time comes boredom. I have lived alone in this castle for for too long... A king needs entertainment!"

Back in the Great Entry, the double doors are now open:

 This grand hall is choked with dust and stretches into darkness ahead. Webs hang from the arched ceiling like drapes, and life-sized statues of knights line the hallway on both sides, their eyes seeming to watch you. 
 
 Spoiler: Perception 
Yikkol (28); Bori (24)
The room seems clear of any danger
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol walks through the hall and heads towards the doors on the other side.

“Strahd doesn’t seem like the kind of person who has knights,” Yikkol says. “I wonder if these suits of armor were once owned by other adventurers who dared to challenge him…”
Waistcoatwill
Nethis matches pace with Yikkol as they pass through yhr hall.

 Who knows? I once saw a theme-bar decorated with these things, even the Karrn's thought it was tacky, but it was a hit with lots of officers apparently. 
dangelo
   
 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. 

OOC: Perception check everyone
truemane
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Nethis matches pace with Yikkol as they pass through yhr hall.

 Who knows? I once saw a theme-bar decorated with these things, even the Karrn's thought it was tacky, but it was a hit with lots of officers apparently.  
 

Rue makes a sour face, frowning as she looks around the massive room.

"What... what is a  theme-bar ?"

She's been everywhere, but mostly in forests and alleys. The occasional belfry, maybe.
Waistcoatwill
 Ugh, House Ghallanda are a dragonmarked house  he points at his arm  and control pubs, bars, hotels, spas all over my continent. The golden dragon is their big franchise, exactly the same no matter which city or nation you are in. Even worse, they have "unique" businesses based on some theme to grab other folk in.

It sounds silly but I was so relieved they quickly assigned me to the Dragom's Tail and packed me off to guard  the assets they provided the armies. The closest thing I could get to getting away from them until the war ended.

Maybe I wished to get away too hard... 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha follows the others into the chapel, ignoring most of the conversation to keep alert to what might be around. Strahd had made reference to his children several times, and his disappointment with some of the others indicates that he is looking for a challenge with which to entertain himself. The slumped forms on the balcony above make Asha think he may be correct in suspecting some form of action in the immediate, and there is a cloaked figure draped over an altar before them as well.   Everyone stay alert. I'm not sure what's on the balcony, but it might be trouble.   Asha reaches into his bag and pulls a crytsal out of. Touching it to his forehead, it summons forth his Bionoid armor, completely encasing him in a strange heavy armor. When he speaks, his voice has a tinny quality,   I'll be better able to assist with my armor summoned.  
 
 Spoiler: Perception 
 (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
 
 
 
  
TaiLiu
As she opens the doors and sees the chapel, Yikkol freezes. First: because she almost entered a church without a priest leading the way. But second: those figures…

She waves the party over and silently points them out, along with whatever her Perception check lets her notice.

(Perception: 21 total.)
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

(I know it's cliché, but as a reminder Zinro, as a Drow, has Superior Darkvision. Perception Roll:  (1d20+5)[ 18 ] )

As the party entered the chapel, Zinro moved up to Yikkol and commanded Dot to return to his side once he was next to the Half-Orc.   "We were very lucky Strahd didn't decide to fight back there. Clearly his arrogance knows no bounds and we have missed an opportunity to gather more information from his boasting."   He seethed.   "I had my familiar climb onto you so that I could cast Greater Invisibility on you without having to stand next to you; if things had continued to escalate."   He took a deep breath, trying to steady his frayed nerves.

  "If you feel we have time, I could ritual cast Detect Magic and see what information is revealed. Alternatively I could cast it immediately."   Zinro offered.
TaiLiu
"That's nice," Yikkol says. It becomes plain that she has no idea what a lesser invisibility is, let alone a greater one.

As for casting  detect magic : "I don't know much about magic, so I'll leave that up to you."
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
 "He can't leave.  Not even if he wants to."   Herbert is sure of this after the Count's last few comments.

Seeing the armored knights, he looks to see if all of them are identical, or if the armors appear to be of different origins, sizes, and styles.

 
 Spoiler: rolls 

Perception  (1d20+8)[ 16 ]  no Darkvision, but did cast Light that gives me a radius of clear vision.

Religion  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  to know anything about who or how Strahd might have become trapped here.  I haven't read Van Richten's Guide, but I've seen enough mentions to have a general idea that may be right.

Religion  (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  to assess the chapel to see who it's dedicated to and anything else relevant.
 


Herbert moves to examine the figure near the altar after causing his shield to glow with the warm yellow glow of Pelor's  Light .
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "That's nice," Yikkol says. It becomes plain that she has no idea what a lesser invisibility is, let alone a greater one.

As for casting  detect magic : "I don't know much about magic, so I'll leave that up to you." 
 

  "To put it simply, as long as I was concentrating on maintaining the effect, you would have been invisible to the naked eye. Magical detection would still reveal you, but you would be able to move around and attack whilst invisible. Lesser forms of the effect are dispelled when you attack. I am sure you'd agree your chances of survival are much higher if Strahd cannot see you. As for Detect Magic, I can recite an extremely long form of the spell to be able to cast it without expending my own reserves of magical strength. Alternatively I can cast it immediately by expending that energy."   Zinro thought for a moment.   "It would be like fletching a new crossbow bolt out of wood and firing it, or simply firing a bolt you already had - eventually you'll run out of bolts if you fire them all; but you'll still be able to fletch new bolts and fire them, given enough time."  

Zinro shielded his eyes slightly as Herbert's shield lit up.

  "If we're not under immediate threat I'll begin a ritual to cast Detect Magic. If necessary I can stop and simply cast it immediately."  

(Zinro finds a nice central spot in the chapel to begin ritual casting Detect Magic. As a reminder this takes 10 minutes)
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "He can't leave.  Not even if he wants to."   Herbert is sure of this after the Count's last few comments. 
 

"Brilliant deduction, your holiness! I'm sure we can put this knowledge to good use."


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "To put it simply, as long as I was concentrating on maintaining the effect, you would have been invisible to the naked eye. Magical detection would still reveal you, but you would be able to move around and attack whilst invisible. Lesser forms of the effect are dispelled when you attack. I am sure you'd agree your chances of survival are much higher if Strahd cannot see you. As for Detect Magic, I can recite an extremely long form of the spell to be able to cast it without expending my own reserves of magical strength. Alternatively I can cast it immediately by expending that energy."   Zinro thought for a moment.   "It would be like fletching a new crossbow bolt out of wood and firing it, or simply firing a bolt you already had - eventually you'll run out of bolts if you fire them all; but you'll still be able to fletch new bolts and fire them, given enough time."   
 

"Those do sound like nifty spells," Yikkol says, "though I feel conflicted about the invisibility. I'd want him to see me while bleeding out. I'd want him to know that Yikkol Four-Eyes defeated him and retrieved her mother's bones."
Waistcoatwill
As Zinro's ritual is about to complete, Bori whispers softly to the stones of the floor underneath each of the three figures.

  Such loneliness, such cold, not even an echo of the chirxh this once was within them.   He thinks and stokes Nethis on the neck gently,  hoping to comfort both of them.   We must escape this place! Lingering here, living or dead, could be worse than Dolurrh!   The fastieth nuzzles him back but neither are much reassured.

He listens carefully to the replies of the spirits. If the bodies on top of them are undead then they should be able to feel it.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Divine Sense 60ft to see if the bodies are undead. Waiting until Zinro's just about to finish his ritual just so that he doesn't interrupt anything. He'll pace the room to male sure they're in range if he needs to.
 
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Seeing the armored knights, he looks to see if all of them are identical, or if the armors appear to be of different origins, sizes, and styles. 
 

The knight statues were portrayed wearing full plate armor and bearing the symbol of the Morninglord, looking like real paladins of the order. They are mostly identical.

The figure slumped on the altar was a warrior in chainmail, a fallen hero of yore. As the fellowship approached the altar, however, they heard creepy sounds of claws raking against stone coming from the vaulted ceiling overhead. Above them, creatures in the darkness climbed along the ceiling and down the pillars that sustained it.

 "Hungry..."  Said a low, rattling voice.
 "Blood..."  Said another.  "Fresh blood..." 

Four pairs of red eyes glimmered in the darkness. Silhouettes of elongated limbs and sharp claws crawled upside down and down the pillars of the chapel.

 "Father has sent us snacks!" 
 
 Spoiler: Initiative! 
 Here's an invite link for the battlemap in Owlbear Rodeo.  Everyone please roll Initiative in the  OOC thread  and place your token anywhere in the chapel. The location of the enemies will revealed before we actually start the encounter, but only after all PC tokens are placed.
 
dangelo
 Combat started
Vampire Spawns' initiative: 22 

The creatures of the night slithered through the shadowed vaulted ceilings of Chapel Ravenloft, each one a grotesque parody of human form. Their pallid, mottled skin clung to their emaciated frames like shrouds, and their elongated fingers ended in razor-sharp claws. Theirs eyes, once filled with the fire of life, were now vacant pools of abyssal darkness, devoid of any trace of humanity. And deep down in that darkness, a red glow of rage.

[Religion 15 to recognize Vampire Spawns]

The first to reveal itself had been an armored champion in life; Now, rusted iron plates were all that remained from his once noble suit of armor. The rattling of chainmail announced every step.

Behind him, clinging to a pillar, was the shadow of a woman who once had been a druid. She tapped her wooden staff against the stone and cast curses in some ancient unknown language.

[Religion or Nature DC 15 to notice the 'druidic' properties of this creature]

Clinging to the ceiling were two other creatures of the same kind: One, the undead version of an old elven Master, dressed in tattered robes that once had been luxurious. The other, a shirtless tribesman carrying a reinforced bow made of the horn of some huge animal.

[Arcana 15 to notice the 'wizardry' properties of this creature]
[Religion or Perception 17 to notice something else about the archer]

 

"Ah, father must be proud of us." While the undead knight's appearance might have inspired greatness and might, his voice was just as fiendish as any vampire's. His tongue dribbled out of his jaw, exposing his horrible teeth. "Look at them. Another batch of  heroes  ." He broke into a hideous laugh . "Have you missed the sign?  Fools?  Abandon all hope! Surrender this futile crusade immediately!"

 

"Enough with the courtesies,  Sir Theodore .  I'm damn hungry...! "

 
 "Valaraz! Se'beroh! Mundo!"  Although the incantations rattled in her throat like a demon's speech, her elvish carried perfect pronunciation, denoting high class education.

 
 Laughs uncontrollably 

[WIP: Currently waiting everyone to have a token placed on the battlemap]
dangelo
The undead knight let go of the stone ceiling, ninety feet above their heads, opening his arms in a wide arc, and launched itself at Herbert like a missile. They went down together in a scramble, a whirlwind of claws lashing out at the cleric.

2 Claws against  Herbert Raycraft  (AC 20)
 (1d20+6)[ 7 ]  (2d4+3)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  (2d4+3)[ 7 ] 

Plus Tasha's rules on "Falling on another creature":
 
 Spoiler: ooc 
If a creature falls into the space of a second creature and neither of them is Tiny, the second creature must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw or be impacted by the falling creature, and any damage resulting from the fall is divided evenly between them.
 


Fall damage (90 ft)
 (9d6)[ 34 ] 

The Wizard and the Druid both announced their ancient magic words and conjured the same spell upon themselves. Their muscles suddenly bulged out, revealing magically enhanced physical strength.

[Arcana and Religion DC 12 to identify the spell Enhance Ability: Bull's Strength]

The Archer aimed for the backline, sticking to the safest point he could find in the chapel.

2 arrows against  Yikkol Four-Eyes  (AC 16)
 (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  (1d8+3)[ 5 ] 
 (1d20+6)[ 8 ]  (1d8+3)[ 11 ] 
TaiLiu
Yikkol ducks as twin arrows fly at her, though one still manages to graze the side of her neck. She cusses, sets her feet hard on the ground, and returns fire.

• Attack roll with Steady Aim:  (1d20+9)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 27 ] .
• Damage rolls:  (1d10+5)[ 10 ]  and  (5d6)[ 18 ]  magical piercing damage. (28 total.)
• Uncanny Dodge reduces 5 damage to 2.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  

Herbert fails to dodge as the vampire lands on him, although the "knight's" claws merely scrabble across his armor.  In return, he speaks a word, and Pelor's light flashes around him.  He stands and conjures a glowing yellow mace, which also attacks the vampire, but misses.

 "We'll need magic, or holy light, to really burn these!  Otherwise, they can heal their wounds.  When we down them, watch for where the mist goes!"  he calls out, informing the others of the vampire's weaknesses to radiant, resistance to necrotic, etc.

 
 Spoiler 

Dex save rolled OOC - prone
34 / 2 = 17 - 3 for HAM (non-magic bludgeoning) =14 damage
1/2 movement to talk
1/2 movement to stand up.

Action Word of Radiance, enemies within 5' take  (2d6)[ 4 ]  radiant damage, Con DC 16 negates
VS Knight Con save  (1d20)[ 12 ]  plus mods

BA Spiritual Weapon
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 10 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 8 ]  force damage
 
Waistcoatwill
Battle joined, the halfling raises his mask to his face. The stylised designs resembling fangs seems to jumpt into life  snarling in a manner that uncannily resembles Nethis's own expression.

Bori reaches out to to the tormented spirits of the chapel. The faintest echo of its former consecration remains within the stone and these "children" of Strahd's are anathema to it. Rue, Asha, and Herbert feel their movements guided by these unseen forces, fighting to rid the chapel of this taint.

Nethis instinctively reacts to Bori's will, adjusting her position to match his calling to the spirits.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
1st level bless on the three above. Repositioning to be able to reach Rue with it.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 
  Archer up above!   Asha shouts out,   Maintain cover if you can!   He moves forward beside Herbert, the Bionoid armor hardening with each step to provide greater protection. He can feel Bori's combat magic wash over him, and his gauntleted hand turns into a fist as he rains down blows on the vampire spawn near the altar.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Bonus Action   - Activate Defensive Field for +10 Temporary Hit Points
  Move   - Move adjacent to Vampire Spawn at altar
  Action   - Attack with Thunder Gauntlets vs Vampire Spawn (Bless and maybe Advantage)
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 27 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ] , Advantage Roll if applicable   (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 8 ]  Thunder Damage
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 13 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ] , Advantage Roll if applicable   (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 12 ]  Thunder Damage
 
 
 
  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro immediately stops trying to ritual cast Detect Magic and instead drops prone to avoid being a tempting target for ranged attacks. Once again he telepathically commands Dot to rush over to Yikkol and climb onto the back of her leg. He quickly considered his options. Seeing his cousin elf wading right into the fight and attacking ferociously, Zinro decided to assist them and began to utter a spell of great speed upon them.

 
 Spoiler 

Dot easily reaches Yikkol and climbs onto the back of her leg; communication with the spider is entirely telepathic at this moment.

Zinro drops prone in his current square and casts Haste (3rd Level, Concentration) on Asha.

Until the spell ends, the target’s speed is doubled, it gains a +2 bonus to AC, it has advantage on Dexterity saving throws, and it gains an additional action on each of its turns. That action can be used only to take the Attack (one weapon attack only), Dash, Disengage, Hide, or Use an Object action.

When the spell ends, the target can’t move or take actions until after its next turn, as a wave of lethargy sweeps over it.
 
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4  
 
  
Rue throws her head back and lets loose a shriek of rage that echoes back and forth across the cavernous space. With an uncanny burst of speed she bolts toward the spawn near the alter and hurls herself at it with shocking strength. She then leaps on top of it and tries to hold it in place.

 
 Spoiler 

Bonus Action: enter Rage, gain Claws, move half my speed (20 ft)
Action: Attack!
1 - Shove! DC 24.
2 - Grapple! DC 18
 
dangelo
Resolving   Round one 
 
 Spoiler 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 [Yikkol]
Archer suffers [28] magical piercing damage.

[Herbert]
Knight suffers [4] radiant damage.
Spiritual weapon misses.

[Bori]
Nature/Religion from the Druid Spawn to identify the Bless spell, DC 11 (10 + level of the spell)
(1d20+3)[15]

[Asha]
Knight suffers [8] thunder damage.
Second attack misses.

[Lord Zinro]
Arcana from the Wizard Spawn to identify the Haste spell, DC 13 (10 + level of the spell)
(1d20+3)[6]

[Rue]
Sir Theodore's Athletics check against Shove, DC 24
(1d20+6)[14]

Sir Theodore's Athletics check against Grapple, DC 18
(1d20+6)[19] 
 
 

 Round two 

Powered by her enhanced muscles, the  undead elven wizard  crawled across the vaulted ceiling and launched herself towards the closest target available, the noble Lord Zinro. Although only a shadow of the elf's arcane knowledge still remained in her mind, she was still sane enough to realize the dark elf was casting a spell, and spells required full concentration.

 "Fresh meat!!"  Her devilish tongue flailed out of her mouth as she leapt off the ceiling.

Fall damage:  (9d6)[ 32 ] 

Half the movement to get up from prone position.

Attempt to grapple Lord Zinro (Advantage from Bull's Strength)
 (1d20+3)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 

Second attack: Bite if grappled, Claws if not grappled
Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+3)[ 4 ]  and  (2d6)[ 6 ]  damage
Or
Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ]  for  (2d4+3)[ 6 ]  damage


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Wizard Spawn
(1d20+6)[19] disadvantage to attack Zinro while Prone 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Wizard's concentration check against fall damage to maintain Bull's Strength, DC 16
(1d20+3)[14] 
 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On the other side of the battlefield, the  Druid Spawn  did the same to bombard Rue.

Druid attempts to grapple Rue (Advantage from Bull's Strength)
 (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 

Second attack: Bite if grappled, Claws if not grappled
Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (1d6+3)[ 4 ]  and  (2d6)[ 9 ]  damage
Or
Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (2d4+3)[ 10 ]  damage


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Druid's fall damage: (9d6)[21]

Druid's concentration check against fall damage to maintain Bull's Strength, DC will depend on Rue's dex save
(1d20+3)[17] 
 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The knight cried to his allies: "Retreat from the priest! He wields the  bright light !" His voice taken by horror. Noticing his wounds ceased to regenerate, he immediately changed strategies.

Half of his movement to communicate with his party.
Half of his movement to get up from Prone position.

 Sir Theodore  attacks Rue twice
Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 11 ]  for  (2d4+3)[ 9 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (2d4+3)[ 7 ]  damage

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 "They have a marksman!! Someone give me cover!!"  The archer shrieked, clinging to the wall to make himself smaller and hopefully dodge some of Yikkol's projectiles.

 Archer  shoots at Yikkol again
Hornbow:  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+3)[ 4 ]  damage
Hornbow:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ]  for  (1d8+3)[ 9 ]  damage
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro cried out as the vampire sunk it's teeth into him. He could feel his lifeblood being stolen away and he fought hard to concentrate on the spell he had cast on Asha.

Zinro was no fighter - he had to escape the clutches of this vile beast.

He looked over to Yikkol and began to speak words of transportation. With a pop of reality, Zinro briefly disappeared and then reappeared next to Yikkol. He hauled himself to his feet.

He then looked up at the Vampire Archer. The Wizard was bearing down on them, but the party had to concentrate on one at a time or they'd never get anywhere. Weaving another magical incantation, Zinro reached out with a hand and suddenly a skeletal hand appeared around the Archer's neck, attempting to strangle whatever passed for life out of them.

 
 Spoiler 

Bonus Action to cast Misty Step (2nd Level) - the spell is purely Verbal, but Grapples don't stop spells anyways - appear in the square next to Yikkol. Grapple is automatically broken.
 Remaining Prone 
Action to cast the Cantrip Chill Touch at the Vampire Archer. Using Pythagoras, they are within the 120ft range of the spell. Ranged Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ] . If hit, the Archer takes  (2d8)[ 6 ]  Necrotic damage (which I know they resist). However, if the spell hits, the target cannot regain hit points until the start of my next turn and they have disadvantage on attack rolls against me.

EDIT: Realised that by remaining Prone I'd technically have disadvantage on Chill Touch, and I don't want that, so I will use Half my Movement to Stand.
 
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 120 (or 111)/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4  
 
  
Rue was afraid of a lot of things. Being alone. Being abandoned. Herself. But she did not fear pain. And she did not fear death. When the spawn attacked and battered her, she only grew angrier, her bloodlust and desire for victory greater.

Concentrating on the knight ("Sir Theodore") she threw off his pathetic attempt to restrain her and slashed at him with her vicious bestial claws. And then followed up with a restraining attempt of her own.

 
 Spoiler 

Rue takes either 17 or 8 damage (depending on if it's magical)

Resist Grapple: 31
Dex Save: 16 (thank the gods for Advantage)

Action:
Attack 1: Shove Sir Theodore: 29
Attack 2: Claws on Sir Theodore:
-Attack 27 for 9 magical slashing damage (forgot to add Rage damage in my OC post)
-Attack 25 or 32, for 9 magical slashing damage

Bonus Action: Grapple Sir Theodore, DC 28
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 24 (Haste) HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Hasted, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha feels a wave of speed and energy flow through his armor. Just as quickly, more spawn drop from the ceilings. Zinro is pinned to the ground, but is able to escape with magic. Rue is upon the vampire knight, but another pounces on her and another on Bori. Asha keeps the pressure up on both spawn near him, using the thunderous magic of the bionoid armor to disrupt their attacks against allies. He calls out to Yikkol and Zinro,   Use the pews for cover if you can!  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 

  Move   - Call out to allies
  Action   - Attack Sir Theo (Bless, Advantage)
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 28 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 15 ]  Thunder damage
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 28 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 22 ]  +  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 10 ]  Thunder damage
  Haste Action   - Attack wizard spawn that is Prone (Bless, Advantage)
Attack 3 -  (1d20+11)[ 31 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 31 ]  +  (1d4)[ 4 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 13 ]  Thunder damage + 5 crit damage, rolled in OOC thread

 Hit Effect (Thunder Gauntlets)  - Creatures hit by the Thunder Gauntlets have Disadvantage to hit anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn, as distracting pulses are emitted from the armor.
 
 
 
  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Bless (Bori) 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians  
 
  

Herbert sends his spiritual mace to attack Sir Theodore again, taking advantage of the vampire having been knocked down and pinned in place by Rue.  With the bulk of his attention, however, he calls upon his god.   "Pelor, guard us and bring light to this dark place!" 

His holy symbol glows, a sword-like line of light extending from it, then splitting and splitting and splitting again over a second until eight sword-like blades of light, wielded by faintly glowing angelic figures, encircle Herbert.
 
 Spoiler 

Spiritual Weapon attack vs Theo, who should be prone
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] + Bless  (1d4)[ 4 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  force damage.

Since 3 vampire spawn were courteous enough to get within 15', Spirit Guardians!
15' radius
Enemy speeds reduced to 1/2 within the area.  When they start their turns there (or enter the area for the first time, if the archer decides to jump down), they take  3d8  radiant damage, Wis DC 16 half.
 
Waistcoatwill
Bori and Nethis leap to defend Zinro as the elven spawn grabs hold of him. As they rush forwards the elf fades from view, leaving the spawn alone.

  We're too stick in our ways, can't just assume this lot need our protection all the time.  

He calls on the heart if his blade, blessed by the light of all 12 moons, bringing the light of Barrakas the Lantern to burn the keeper-cursed creature.

A glance shows him Zinro's new position of safety. He nods in respect to the mage's skill.   The hidden paths exist here too, Nethis, with the right guides we might walk them too.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Reposition as per the map. I assume only one of those hit 7 magical piercing and 11 radiant damage.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  "They have a marksman!! Someone give me cover!!"  The archer shrieked, clinging to the wall to make himself smaller and hopefully dodge some of Yikkol's projectiles.  Archer  shoots at Yikkol again 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 He looked over to Yikkol and began to speak words of transportation. With a pop of reality, Zinro briefly disappeared and then reappeared next to Yikkol. He hauled himself to his feet. 
 

As Zinro teleports across the room, Yikkol is already on the move. One hornbow arrow breaks where she was standing. Another slices her lower arm. She grunts in pain but continues forward, jumping over pews and landing next to a grappled and prone Sir Theodore.

She throws her crossbow over her shoulder, draws her sword, and thrusts it downwards into the monster's eye.

 
 Interact with an Object to sheathe the crossbow &amp; Fast Hands (Use an Object) to draw her sword. 
 Rapier Attack (Adv.):  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 13 ] . 
 Rapier damage:  (1d8+4)[ 7 ]  and  (5d6)[ 20 ]  nonmagical piercing damage. If it hits, that's 13 piercing damage. 
 
dangelo
Resolving Round Two: 
 Spoiler 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 [ Lord Zinro ]
- Chill Touch misses (13).

[ Rue ]
- Druid Spawn takes full damage from the fall and maintains concentration on Bull's Strength.
- Sir Theodore cannot resist Shove at DC 29 (his modifier is +6) and falls prone.
- Sir Theodore suffers [ 7 ] Magical Slashing Damage then [ 14 ] Magical Slashing Damage (crit).
- Sir Theodore cannot resist Grapple at DC 28 (his modifier is +6) and is Grappled.

[ Asha ]
- (30) and (29) hit, plus crit. Sir Theodore suffers [ 15 ], then [ 10 ], then [ 21 ] Thunder damage.

[ Herbert ]
- Sir Theodore suffers [ 4 ] Force damage.

[ Bori ]
- (27) hits, (11) misses. Wizard Spawn suffers [ 7 ] Magical Piercing and [ 11 ] Radiant damage.

[ Yikkol ]
- (18) hits. Sir Theodore suffers [ 13 ] Piercing damage. 
 
 

 Round Three 
 Wizard Spawn 
 (1d20+3)[ 12 ]  Wisdom save to take half of  (3d8)[ 11 ]  radiant damage.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Wizard Spawn takes the Dash action, triggering Attacks of Opportunity from both Bori and Asha, and moves 60 ft. It takes 10 ft. just to walk the last square within Herbert's spell, leaving 50 ft. She reaches the wall with 15 ft. and climb 35 ft. 
 

Corrected to:

Wizard Spawn spends 15ft of movement to get up and takes the Dash action, triggering Attacks of Opportunity from both Bori and Asha. It takes 10 ft. just to walk the last square within Herbert's spell, leaving only 35 ft. She reaches the wall with 15 ft. and climbs 20 ft.


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Druid Spawn 
 (1d20+3)[ 20 ]  Wisdom save to take half of  (3d8)[ 7 ]  radiant damage.

Druid Spawn takes the Dash action, triggering an Attack of Opportunity from Rue. He moves 10 ft. towards the wall (15ft. because of Herbert's spell) and climb 45 ft. up.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Sir Theodore 
 (1d20+3)[ 23 ]  Wisdom save to take half of  (3d8)[ 11 ]  radiant damage.

Sir Theodore attacks Rue twice (disadvantage for being prone)
Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  for  (2d4+3)[ 10 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  for  (2d4+3)[ 9 ] 

The knight looked bloodied, full of burn marks and scorches from the lightning and radiant magic that rained down on him. His armor was battered and his vampiric body endured several cuts in the gaps of his armor. On top of that, his wounds were not regenerating during the whole fight. Now, when the beast attacked, there wasn't only hunger in its eyes, but an urge to survive. Now it fought for its miserable, cursed life.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Archer 
  (1d20+3)[ 17 ]  Wisdom save to take half of  (3d8)[ 15 ]  radiant damage. 
(ignore this roll, I mixed things up)

Archer shoots Rue twice, in an attempt to save Sir Theodore from inevitable doom.
Hornbow:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ]  for  (1d8+3)[ 6 ]  damage
Hornbow:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+3)[ 8 ]  damage
TaiLiu
Yikkol pulls a vial of acid from her jacket pocket, uncorks it with her teeth, and splashes it over Sir Theodore’s face. Then, using her right arm like a hammer, she shoves the sword even deeper into the vampire’s eyes. It makes a loud crunching sound as she does so.

“Surrender!” Yikkol growls. “Surrender and your lives may be spared! Our business is with Strahd. Aid us or die!”

 
 Attack roll (Fast Hands—acid vial):  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] . 
 Damage roll if it hits: [/roll]2d6+4[/roll] acid damage. 
 Attack roll (rapier):  (1d20+8)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] , whichever is higher. 
 Damage roll:  (1d8+4)[ 12 ]  and  (5d6)[ 19 ]  nonmagical piercing damage. 
 

EDIT: Yeah, no one's gonna be intimidated by that sad turn. 😛
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Bless (Bori) 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians  
 
  

Herbert's glowing mace attacks the fallen knight as he shifts his position slightly, then calls upon Pelor to smite the wizard that just escaped to the north.

 
 Spoiler 

SW w/ advantage
 (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 27 ]   for  (1d8+4)[ 7 ]  force damage

Spirit Guardians is still up.  3d8 radiant damage and Wis DC 15 at the start of Sir Theo's next turn.

Move 5'
Sacred Flame at wizard, Dex DC 16 or take  (2d6)[ 10 ]  plus  (1d8)[ 7 ]  radiant damage.  The bonus radiant damage is from Blessed Strikes.
VW Dex save  (1d20)[ 13 ]  plus mods

If the wizard goes down from OAs, etc., then switch target to the one to the southeast (druid?)
 
Waistcoatwill
The spawn starts to scuttle away and Bori's blade lashes out at them. They slog through the priest's field of energy, bursting free,  scrabbling up the wall. A grinning reptilian from streaks after them, jumping off a pew and briefly scrabbling at the wall before sliding back down to the floor.

At the zenith of the jump, Bori reaches out to the stones the spawn is clingjng to. Revilt at thr stagnation of Strahd's reign pours back from the stone, attempting to hold the spawn in place.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Chase after the spawn, jumping up directly underneath it, jumping off a pew to 5th in the air.
Channel Divinty: Nature's Wrath, range 10ft, DC 16 Strength or Dexterity save or be restrained. Save again at the end of own turns.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Not wanting to be alone and outside any of the spheres of divine protection, Zinro moved to be closer to the group.

He continued to try and assail the vampiric ranger with necromantic magic.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Action to put myself next to the group.
Main Action to try and cast Chill Touch again on the Archer Spawn. Ranged Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ] . If hit, the Archer takes  (2d8)[ 14 ]  Necrotic damage (which I know they resist). However, if the spell hits, the target cannot regain hit points until the start of my next turn and they have disadvantage on attack rolls against me.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 24 (Haste) HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Hasted, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

After being struck by a spinning back fist, and attacked by Bori and Herbert's magic, the wizard spawn knew it had to retreat. It made a mad dash for the wall. Asha's fist lashes out for another strike.

 
 Spoiler: Round 2 Reaction 

Opportunity Attack vs Wizard Spawn
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  +  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
 


Sir Theodore, the knightly spawn, is dogpiled, getting struck by Rue, Herbert, and Asha. With a quick glance around, Asha can see that Bori and Herbert are keeping up the pressure on the wizard spawn, and Lord Zinro is harrying the archer spawn. The best thing would then be to assist Rue and Herbert in destroying Sir Theodore, to then focus on the remaining spawn. Asha looks down at the desperate vampire,   Your brothers and sisters have abandoned you. Let's put you out of your misery.  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 
  Action   - Attack vs Sir Theodore (Bless, Advantage[Prone])
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 23 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 26 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 30 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 27 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 15 ] 
  Haste Action   - Attack vs Sir Theodore (Bless, Advantage[Prone])
Attack 3 -  (1d20+11)[ 17 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 31 ]  +  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
  Hit Effect   - Thunder Gauntlets: Sir Theodore has Disadvantage to attack anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn.
 
 
 
  
truemane
      
      Rue     
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 117/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4  
 
  
Rue swiped at the Druid Spawn as it passed, but (distracted as she was) she was unable to connect.

She laughed at Sir Theodore's pathetic attempts to harm her. And she laughed as its brethren's attempts as well, barely even feeling the arrow within her rage. Her eyes were alight with malicious glee.

Again she dug her long ragged claws into Sir Theodore's undead flesh. And then, still laughing, she opened her fanged maw wide and sank her horrid teeth into his neck and tore off a massive chunk of flesh,

If that assault killed the creature, she planned to leap onto the wall behind her and give chase to the Druid Spawn. Otherwise, she would continue holding on.

 
 Spoiler 

Opportunity Attack: 12 (presumed miss)

 4 damage  to Sir Theodore at the start of my turn.
Claw 1: Attack 23, for  8 magical slashing damage 
Claw 2: Attack 26, for  12 magical slashing damage 
Bite: CRITICAL HIT!  13 magical piercing damage 

In case I need it: Athletics Check 19, so I can leap 15ft toward the wall and 23 feet straight up (and then crawl the remaining5ft)
 
dangelo
Round four:

 "Run, brothers! The priest wields the bright light!"  Sir Theodore gasped. Black blood gushed from his mouth. His throat was ripped open by Rue's fangs, and his arms fell feebly beside his body. While a wooden stake heart would have been necessary to bring the vampire to its final death, there was only so much damage their bodies could withstand before collapsing, whether they were staked through the hearth or not.  "Lord father... I failed you..." 

The remaining Lesser Vampires resumed their attempt to escape. They were hungry, but a stronger emotion took over now: fear.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Druid, Wizard and Archer all move straight up. Rue gets an attack of opportunity at the Druid.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 At the zenith of the jump, Bori reaches out to the stones the spawn is clinging to. Revolt at the stagnation of Strahd's reign pours back from the stone, attempting to hold the spawn in place. 
 

As Bori’s power grabs hold of the wizard, Yikkol seizes the opportunity to draw her crossbow and fire a bolt at its head.

• Interact with an Object to draw her crossbow.
• Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] .   No ADV. 26.  
• Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 15 ]  and  (5d6)[ 14 ]  magical piercing damage. 29 total.   No SA. 15.  

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Again she dug her long ragged claws into Sir Theodore's undead flesh. And then, still laughing, she opened her fanged maw wide and sank her horrid teeth into his neck and tore off a massive chunk of flesh. 
 

As she turns back to the vampire next to her, Yikkol sees Rue ripping into Theo’s neck like a rabid hyena—or perhaps even a vampire. She quickly picks up her sword and scurries away into the pews, closer to Bori.

• Fast Hands to pick up the sword.
• Move 30 feet.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The remaining Lesser Vampires resumed their attempt to escape. They were hungry, but a stronger emotion took over now: fear. 
 

Yikkol shouts to Herbert: “Your holiness, I think they’re trying to escape! What should we do?”
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Bless (Bori) 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians  
 
  

With the knight-like abomination dead, Herbert moves to make exiting the room more difficult.   "Return them to the grave,"  he responds, firing a golden bolt of light at the undead wizard.
 
 Spoiler 

Guiding Bolt  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  from Bless.
If it hits,  (4d6)[ 10 ]  radiant damage, and the next attack against her has Advantage.
Moving 30' to block the north exit.
Map updated.
1st level slot expended.

BA: Move Spiritual Weapon 20' north.  Can probably hit the wizard with it next round.
 
Waistcoatwill
A hiss of disgust rings out as the spawn escapes further up the wall. It isn't immediately clear whether if came from the halfling or the dinosaur. They pad closer to their allies, trying to catch as many in the aura of blue-green light as possible.
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121*/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  
Rue reached the Druid Spawn just in time for it to scuttle away again. She swipes at it, but it escapes. Rue scampers after it and assaults it in a flurry of claws and then tries to grab hold of it before it gets a chance to move away again.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack of Opportunity: Attack 11 for  8 magical slashing damage 

Attack 1:
-Claw 1: Attack 19 for   8 magical slashing damage 
-Claw 2: Attack 19 for   10 magical slashing damage 

Attack 2 on Druid:
-Claw: Attack 18 for  10 magical slashing damage 

Bonus Action
-Grapple DC 14
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 24 (Haste) HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Flight 60ft, Hasted, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: Fly 

As predicted, Sir Theo could not withstand the combined onslaught of the group, and Rue finishes the spawn off. She quickly leaps after the retreating druid. Confident the dhampir can handle the creature, Asha follows Herbert's lead and looks up to the retreating wizard spawn. The tinny voice can be heard again, almost like two voices speaking at the same time,   Engage.   Orbs push themselves through the strange, almost flesh like armor and glow, and Asha takes off in flight, cutting the spawn off from climbing any higher, and throwing a thunderous strike towards it.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 4 
  Action   - Cast Fly (60ft Speed)
  Move   - Fly up to wizard spawn, end in square directly above wizard spawn, against the wall. (Not sure how Fly interacts with Haste, if the speed is doubled. But I don't think I require it to move here, as the fly speed is 60ft.)
  Haste Action   - Attack Wizard Spawn (Bless, Advantage [Guiding Bolt])
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 27 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 
  Hit Effect   - Thunder Gauntlets: Wizard Spawn has Disadvantage to attack anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn.
 
 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
Bori sees Asha interept the wizard and attem9t to add what little help he can. He drops hisnrapier and pulls out his bow, loosing two arrows at the spawn.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 (1d20+9)[ 23 ]  for  (1d8+5)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+9)[ 20 ]  for  (1d8+5)[ 8 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 (Not sure how Fly interacts with Haste, if the speed is doubled.) 

(Speed is indeed doubled, meaning you could technically fly 360ft a round - double action dash, plus haste dash, all doubled)

Seeing his foes escape, Zinro attempted to pierce the darkness of the chapel's ceiling, to see if there were any escape routes for the Spawn to take.

 
 Spoiler 

Superior Darkvision Perception to see if there's anywhere the Spawn could escape in/around the ceiling:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 


It seemed like the battle had been won; although Zinro still winced from the pain in his shoulder. Despite the harsh light coming from the priest, Zinro moved to be closer to Herbert - perhaps the safest place to be right now. Seeing as the target had been switched to the Wizard, Zinro decided to support the party by launching a small bolt of fire at it from his outstretched palm.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Action to be next to Herbert.
Main Action to cast the Firebolt cantrip at the Wizard Spawn. Ranged Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] . If it hits it deals  (2d10+4)[ 14 ]  Fire damage (the extra +4 is from the Empowered Evocation - my Evocation spells damage benefits from my Intelligence Modifier)
 
dangelo
Resolving Round Four: 
 Spoiler 
[ Yikkol ]

29 magical piercing damage on Wizard Spawn.

[ Herbert ]

10 radiant damage on Wizard Spawn.

[ Rue ]

8 magical slashing damage on Druid Spawn (Attack of Opportunity).
18 magical slashing damage on Druid Spawn.
Druid Spawn rolls 12 to resist Grapple and is Grappled.

[ Asha ]

10 thunder damage on Wizard Spawn.

[ Bori ]

8 magic piercing damage on the Wizard Spawn.

[ Lord Zinro ]

14 fire damage on Wizard Spawn.
 


Round Five

- Wizard Spawn takes the Dash action and moves 5 ft to the side and 55 up. (avoiding Asha, who gets an Attack of Opportunity)
- Druid Spawn tries to break free from Grapple:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  (if successful, will move 30 ft. up taking attacks of opportunity from Rue)
- Archer continues to move up.

The Archer and the Druid Spawns crawled to the vaulted ceiling of Chapel Ravenloft, disappearing into the shadows. Lord Zinro's sharp eyes, however, could see how the chapel had endured hundreds, if not thousands of years of damage, and witnessed uncountable battles between monsters and adventurers. Its ceiling now displayed a tapestry of cracks and crevices in the stone, some of them large enough for a child to crawl through. With uncanny fluidity, the their vampiric forms contorted and slipped through the gap, much like rats that squeezes themselves under a door, and disappeared into the depths of Castle Ravenloft. Only Bori would be able to crawl through that gap.
dangelo
It had taken Gustav over a decade of researching and hunting for the cleric to finally track down the Village of Barovia and Castle Ravenloft. After months without seeing any sunlight, buried deep in the secret library of Omabar, he found an old book on Vistani lineages, and there the hidden knowledge that they could walk through the Mist without getting lost. But how does one simply  find  the Vistani? No, the Vistani would find him, not the other way around. Still, his Order had given this mission and Gustav had no option: He took the road and just wandered around the world, looking for anything that could lead him to the Vistani. Once he found them, in a huge festival in the Kingdom's capital, he had to run errands and do favors for their elder before they shook hands and accepted to take Gustav to Barovia. For him, Madam Eva turned a single card:  The Priest .

Gustav kicked the doors of Castle Ravenloft open and raised his mace in the air.  "Baugrog!"  He cried, and the mace cried with him, a song of terror that made Strahd's children run in fear. He ignored the music room to the right and the grand staircase to the left, and ran down the corridor of the statues without hesitating. When he burst into the chapel, Sir Theodore and his squad crawled deeper into rocks and hid in fear, their minds taken by the song of terror that Gustav's mace sang to the castle.  "Finally... I have found it..." 

The  Icon of Ravenloft  was a 12-inch-tall statuette made of the purest silver, weighing no more than 10 pounds, depicting a cleric kneeling in supplication. Once it had been the source of a powerful bless. With the fall of Count Strahd, it should now be a corrupt artifact, something that Gustav's orders was very much interested in. He walked up to the altar and wrapped his fingers around it - and that was the last thing he did in life. In the end, Gustav's assumption was wrong: the Icon of Ravenloft remained pure, so pure it couldn't stand the touch of a Cleric of the Corruption. His touch woke up the artifact, and it's aura was too powerful for Gustav to withstand. He died on the spot, and his body remained exactly in the same place, to be discovered by a different fellowship of adventurers in their own Expedition to Castle Ravenloft.

You all have this foggy-cloudy vision, as if whatever remained of Gustav's soul had manifested and resonated with yours, revealing his legacy to those who come after him. You realize the man in chainmail is the actual Gustav, and that he's clutching the very Icon of Ravenloft in his left hand while holding his Mace of Terror in the right.

Wizard and Archer run away. End of combat.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro remained alert for a few moments more; and then relaxed slightly.

  "The wizard and the archer seem to be gone - there's cracks and holes all over the ceiling that they've slipped unnaturally through."  

He remained close to Herbert, the primary source of the spawn's fear.   "Well done, Priest, and well done to all of us; those foes were no push-overs! By the way, did anyone else have a strange vision overcome them? Of Gustav?"   Zinro indicated the body of Gustav with a nod of his head.   "If you'd like I can Identify the artifacts, but I'd need time to recite the proper incantations."  

After a moment, his eyes flickered over to Rue. He tried to choose his words carefully:   "It would seem that you favour a similar tactic to our adversaries. Should we be concerned?"  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Bless (Bori) 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians  
 
  
 
"Yes, well done everyone.  It's unfortunately that two of them got away.  They will be more wary of us next time.  Does anyone need their injuries healed by the power of Pelor?" 

After healing any who need it, Herbert approaches the altar.  Based on the vision, the icon should be safe for him to handle... yet also potent enough to handle with care, plus there's always a chance that it has changed while sitting here in this place.  He cautiously touches it, attempting to pry it out of Gustav's dead hand.  Assuming it doesn't burn him, he will attempt to identify any markings on it or abilities it may have.

 "Also, did anyone check the two bodies on the seats in the back?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Religion  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 24 (Haste) HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Flight 60ft, Hasted, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: Fly 

The wizard spawn crawls to the side of Asha and darts up the wall frantically. He hits it with another thunderous blow but Strahd's progeny are resilient. It keeps scrambling up. Asha gives chase, but is suddenly struck with a vision or distant memory. He sees the cleric Gustav, dying at the altar. When his senses return, he reflexively looks down at the corpse, now revealed to be the cleric he had seen in the vision. He snaps his gaze back to the ceiling, but the wizard is gone. Asha continues flying up, summoning a light on his shield to illuminate the vault. Cracks are evident everywhere, and none that he could give chase through. After inspecting for some time, he returns down to the others on the floor.

Lord Zinro alerts the others,   The wizard and the archer seem to be gone - there's cracks and holes all over the ceiling that they've slipped unnaturally through.  
  Confirmed,   Asha nods,   None large enough for me to get through, or Rue.  

Asha remains in his armor, unsure if the spawn will ambush them again shortly. He moves over to the corpse of Gustav,   I saw the vision as well,   he says in response to Zinro,   Strange that we should all share that vision.  
 
 
  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Return them to the grave,"  he responds, firing a golden bolt of light at the undead wizard. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Wizard and Archer run away. End of combat. 
 

Yikkol fires a couple more times but fails to find purchase. She watches as the vampires disappear into the darkness.

“Sorry, your holiness. They got away. What now?”


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 It had taken Gustav over a decade of researching and hunting for the cleric to finally track down the Village of Barovia and Castle Ravenloft. After months without seeing any sunlight, buried deep in the secret library of Omabar, he found an old book on Vistani lineages, and there the hidden knowledge that they could walk through the Mist without getting lost. But how does one simply  find  the Vistani? No, the Vistani would find him, not the other way around. Still, his Order had given this mission and Gustav had no option: He took the road and just wandered around the world, looking for anything that could lead him to the Vistani. Once he found them, in a huge festival in the Kingdom's capital, he had to run errands and do favors for their elder before they shook hands and accepted to take Gustav to Barovia. For him, Madam Eva turned a single card:  The Priest .

Gustav kicked the doors of Castle Ravenloft open and raised his mace in the air.  "Baugrog!"  He cried, and the mace cried with him, a song of terror that made Strahd's children run in fear. He ignored the music room to the right and the grand staircase to the left, and ran down the corridor of the statues without hesitating. When he burst into the chapel, Sir Theodore and his squad crawled deeper into rocks and hid in fear, their minds taken by the song of terror that Gustav's mace sang to the castle.  "Finally... I have found it..." 

The  Icon of Ravenloft  was a 12-inch-tall statuette made of the purest silver, weighing no more than 10 pounds, depicting a cleric kneeling in supplication. Once it had been the source of a powerful bless. With the fall of Count Strahd, it should now be a corrupt artifact, something that Gustav's orders was very much interested in. He walked up to the altar and wrapped his fingers around it - and that was the last thing he did in life. In the end, Gustav's assumption was wrong: the Icon of Ravenloft remained pure, so pure it couldn't stand the touch of a Cleric of the Corruption. His touch woke up the artifact, and it's aura was too powerful for Gustav to withstand. He died on the spot, and his body remained exactly in the same place, to be discovered by a different fellowship of adventurers in their own Expedition to Castle Ravenloft.

You all have this foggy-cloudy vision, as if whatever remained of Gustav's soul had manifested and resonated with yours, revealing his legacy to those who come after him. You realize the man in chainmail is the actual Gustav, and that he's clutching the very Icon of Ravenloft in his left hand while holding his Mace of Terror in the right. 
 

She shivers as the vision takes hold and clears. Was she going mad? But then she sees the others coming out of the vision, too… A magic effect, then.

“What should we do with these?”
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Also, did anyone check the two bodies on the seats in the back?"  
 

“Oh it, your holiness!” Yikkol runs and takes a look at the slumped over bodies on the pews.

If necessary, Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 11 ] .
Waistcoatwill
Bori was used to receiving guidance from the ancestors, but Gustav's influence was less than welcome. He was glad that his companions seemed so different from Gustav. It was a stark lesson in the consequences of isolation though

 Well, at least we know that there are some things here that have resisted Strahd's corruption. That is cause for hope and gives me much more confidence in these relics we are meant to find.

There was one in the depths of the castle, yes? The opposite direction to those creatures seems like a sensible course. 

He pulls out his remaining snacks.  I have a couple more of these if anyone would like them? 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "There are stairs heading down, in one of the side passages from this chapel. We needed to head down as part of our quest."  

Zinro approached the two magical objects.   "I will start with the Mace, and then move onto the Icon. Please do not move the items. I require 10 minutes for each of them to be able to discern their magical properties."   With that, Zinro began to trace his fingers in the air and around the Mace first, uttering arcane words as he did so. After a minute, he pulled a brilliantly sparkling pearl from his bag and held it in one hand as he continued to chant. The pearl began to glow softly.

 
 Spoiler 

Ritual Cast Identify on the Mace. Using Pearl of Power as Material Component (which is not consumed). The process takes 11 minutes (1 minute spell + 10 minutes ritual)
 


(If the party is not interrupted, he would repeat the process on the Icon)
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 He pulls out his remaining snacks.  I have a couple more of these if anyone would like them?  
 

On the way to investigate the bodies, Yikkol will grab a Korth clanger and stuff it into her mouth.
dangelo
The weapon slowly reacted to the arcane energy in the pearl and the magic commands uttered at it. Draconic inscriptions appeared all over the surface of the jewel, and under Lord Zinro's command, the inscriptions formed a series of holographic rings around the magician's hand. The truth of the power of that magic item was slowly revealed to him, first through the secret glyph that represented Necromancy, then with a vision of three stars shining bright, each representing one cell of magic within that mace, three in power reserves for the spells woven into the black steel of which the weapon was made.

 
 Spoiler 
This magic weapon has 3 charges. While holding it, you can use an action and expend 1 charge to release a wave of terror. Each creature of your choice in a 30-foot radius extending from you must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened of you for 1 minute. While it is frightened in this way, a creature must spend its turns trying to move as far away from you as it can, and it can't willingly move to a space within 30 feet of you. It also can't take reactions. For its action it can use only the Dash action or try to escape from an effect that prevents it from moving. If it has nowhere it can move, the creature can use the Dodge action. At the end of each of its turns, a creature can repeat the saving throw, ending the effect on itself on a success.

The mace regains 1d3 expended charges daily at dawn.
 


The Icon reacted in a similar way, revealing the power of Evocation and Divination. It was imbued with a traditional, powerful blessing, one that Herbert would quickly recognize: it was similar to other blessings given by Archpriests of Pelor as gifts to generous and benevolent rulers. The Icon was supposed to stay in the chapel, but it had magic powers that could be wielded in case of emergency.

 
 Spoiler 
While within 30 feet of the icon, a creature is under the effect of a Protection from Evil and Good spell against fiends and undead. Only a creature attuned to the icon can use its other properties.

Augury. You can use an action to cast an Augury spell from the icon, with no material components required. Once used, this property can't be used again until the next dawn.

Bane of the Undead. You can use the icon as a holy symbol while using the Turn Undead or Turn the Unholy feature. If you do so, increase the save DC by 2.

Cure Wounds. While holding the icon, you can take an action to heal one creature that you can see within 30 feet of you. The target regains 3d8 + 3 hit points, unless it is an undead, a construct, or a fiend. Once used, this property can't be used again until the next dawn.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

(Zinro truthfully relays all the magical properties discovered in the items)

  "Perhaps Herbert could make use of both items? If he has no use for the Mace, then perhaps I could wield it. It would be useful to drive foes away from me, after all; I certainly won't be hitting people with it."  

Zinro put the Pearl of Power back into his bag.

  "I believe we should head down, if we are all agreed. Although we should, of course, be on our guard now: we have made enemies here that will seek revenge."  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Bless (Bori) 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians  
 
  
 "The icon is indeed powerful, and will help protect all of us against attacks by undead and fiends, as long as we stay within 30' of it."   Herbert picks it up, and takes the time to use some cord from his pack to fasten it securely to his belt.
Waistcoatwill
Bori looks slightly dubiously at the stone steps. He squeezed the fastieth's shoulder gently.

  I hope these have held up better than thr roof of the chapel. Tread carefully, Nethis. We don't know how far down it goes or how far we'd rolll if we fell, possibly even to Khyber itself.  

He nods at Zinro's plan.

 Shall we have a marching order? Thats how people do it right? Im more.used to protecting folk than trailblazing these days. Yikkol in the lead, maybe? Herbert and me in the centre to provide support? 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  
After destroying the Druid spawn and watching its corpse fall heavily to the tiled floor below, Rue tried to sprint across the wall toward the others. Her rage clouded the fact that she could not catch them, but after a few seconds she realized it and let them go.

As her compatriots examined the room below, she climbed higher and higher on the wall, searching for any nooks, crannies, tunnels, escape routes, or anything else.

After she was done she dropped deftly to the ground and walked the perimeter of the room. Even though her rage has mostly dissipated, there was still very much something of a stalking beast in her gait and her manner.

She lifts her head at the description of the magical items before wrinkling her nose in a sour expression and shaking her head slightly and moving on. She was little used to putting her faith in any kind of possession.

She then climbed up to the balcony to poke around and investigate the bodies that were up there.

 
 Spoiler 

Investigation: 17
Perception: 15
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol takes a look around the stairs.

Perception checks of 21 for both.
dangelo
The 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; Sitting on them, two decomposing corpses wore the remains of silk and velvet dresses, once expensive pieces of garment befitting the nobles enjoyed a prestigious view of the chapel. 

From the edge of the railing, Rue can see the double doors behind thrones and either side of the railing which might lead to different areas of the castle. It would require further inspection to be sure.
dangelo
While Lord Zinro and Herbert inspected the newfound artifacts and Rue scouted the balcony, Yikkol found a wooden staircase in the north chapel access, and a spiral staircase in the south. The staircase in the north access was made of old wood that creaked and groaned underfoot, yet it revealed itself safe to climb after a few tests. Walking back to the chapel and inspecting the structure of the balcony, Yikkol could notice how the wooden staircase should lead to the thrones above. The staircase in the south access was narrow, yet it spiraled in a wide arc, suggesting it belonged to a massive tower. From the outside view, Castle Ravenloft only had two towers that could be this large, connected by a bridge halfway to the top.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Shall we have a marching order? Thats how people do it right? Im more.used to protecting folk than trailblazing these days. Yikkol in the lead, maybe? Herbert and me in the centre to provide support?  
 

“Good idea,” Yikkol says, and gives Bori a warm smile. “But I think we’d only need to worry about a marching order in narrow spaces. This castle is big enough to us to move comfortably.”


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 [B][COLOR="#4B0082"]After a moment, his eyes flickered over to Rue. He tried to choose his words carefully:   "It would seem that you favour a similar tactic to our adversaries. Should we be concerned?"   
 

Yikkol watches Rue climb up and away from the question.

“Let’s ask her again,” she whispers to him, “when we take our break. I have my concerns as well.”


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The staircase in the north access was made of old wood that creaked and groaned underfoot, yet it revealed itself safe to climb after a few tests. Walking back to the chapel and inspecting the structure of the balcony, Yikkol could notice how the wooden staircase should lead to the thrones above. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 She then climbed up to the balcony to poke around and investigate the bodies that were up there. 
 

Yikkol waves to Rue, points at the doors, and mimes an opening gesture.

“Rue, I think these wooden stairs down here lead directly to the balcony up there. Could you open the doors and check?”


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Perhaps Herbert could make use of both items? If he has no use for the Mace, then perhaps I could wield it. It would be useful to drive foes away from me, after all; I certainly won't be hitting people with it."   
 

Yikkol gives a thumbs up.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The staircase in the south access was narrow, yet it spiraled in a wide arc, suggesting it belonged to a massive tower. From the outside view, Castle Ravenloft only had two towers that could be this large, connected by a bridge halfway to the top. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  There was one in the depths of the castle, yes? The opposite direction to those creatures seems like a sensible course.  
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "There are stairs heading down, in one of the side passages from this chapel. We needed to head down as part of our quest."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "I believe we should head down, if we are all agreed. Although we should, of course, be on our guard now: we have made enemies here that will seek revenge."   
 

Yikkol shakes her head.

“Don’t think that’s a good idea. Remember what Strahd said about the chapel? Turns out being cleansed of our sins meant we’d get eaten by his kids.

“I’m sure the talk about servants and baths is a euphemism, too. Let’s head up instead. This staircase will lead to the bridge connected to the highest tower. We know that’s where one of the treasures are.”


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "The icon is indeed powerful, and will help protect all of us against attacks by undead and fiends, as long as we stay within 30' of it."   Herbert picks it up, and takes the time to use some cord from his pack to fasten it securely to his belt. 
 

“Brilliant, your holiness! With you, Strahd is as good as dead.”
TaiLiu
After some discussion, Yikkol is eventually persuaded to head downward.

“Fine—but stay alert. Who knows what Strahd’s servants have prepared for us?”

She leads the way down the spiral stairs, keeping an eye and a crossbow out for any signs for danger.

If needed, Perception: [/roll]1d20+10[/roll].
TaiLiu
Whoops. Messed up Perception. Here we go…  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] .
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest) 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The 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; Sitting on them, two decomposing corpses wore the remains of silk and velvet dresses, once expensive pieces of garment befitting the nobles enjoyed a prestigious view of the chapel.  
 

Her face wrinkling in distaste, Rue approached the bodies and inspected them carefully, but with little reverence.

She had no interest in gold or jewels or any other marker of wealth, but she knew her compatriots might value such things.


 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Yikkol waves to Rue, points at the doors, and mimes an opening gesture.

“Rue, I think these wooden stairs down here lead directly to the balcony up there. Could you open the doors and check?” 
 

Rue, out of view of the chapel, knocks on the floor twice to show she heard, and then goes to the doors and tries to open them, one at a time. If they open, she does. If they do not, she forces them. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Just in case:
Break open left door: Strength 19/Athletics 27
Break open right door: Strength 6/Athletics 14
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro kept close to Herbert as the party descended down the stairs. He decided to keep Dot attached to Yikkol for the time being, in case he needed to cast a spell on her through his Familiar. As they descended, Zinro kept a close eye and ear out for further trouble. He idly rubbed the wound in his shoulder as they marched.

 
 Spoiler 
Perception Check, if needed:  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 
dangelo
The creaky wooden staircase climbed to the balcony through a secondary access. From there, the double doors lead to a grand hallway that mirrored the size and position of the corridor of the statues below.

Down below, the south access staircase spiraled into darkness.The newformed fellowship formed a straight line and descended into the depths of Castle Ravenloft, watching every step, ears open for danger, still alert from the discharge of adrenaline that had been the first fight. Finally, the staircase ended at the bottom of the castle, revealing a low-ceiling catacomb immersed in shadows.

 Buried deep beneath the keep of Ravenloft lie ancient catacombs, with arched ceilings supported by wide, hollow columns that double as crypts. Cobwebs hang limp in the musty air. A thick fog clings to the floor, which is covered in putrid waste. The black ceiling is moving. 
 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Who is heading in first? What is your formation when exploring? Do you have a light source? Who's carrying it?
If you decide to explore the catacombs, please roll Perception and (if you want) Stealth.
 
TaiLiu
“I can go on ahead a few paces,” Yikkol said, whispering. “The rest of you can follow behind. But stay alert. I reckon we’ll have to deal with another trap before long. Servants and baths my green arse…”

With some concern, she glances at the cobwebs on the floor and then at the moving ceiling. Then she begins to move ahead, carefully avoiding most of the waste, spiderwebs, and anything else that could make noise.

• Yikkol heads in first. Maybe 20 ft ahead of the party to scout ahead. No light source, just 60 ft  of Darkvision.
• Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 29 ] .
• Stealth with Supreme Sneak:  (1d20+12)[ 25 ]  or  (1d20+12)[ 19 ] .
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: Guidance 

Yikkol creeps forward ahead of the group to scout, Asha whispers,   Be careful,   as she departs. He takes a position at the front, and touches Herbert's shoulder as he does. Crystals along Asha's armor light up briefly as energy is imparted to Herbert to assist him.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Asha's Perception -  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
Asha's Stealth -  (1d20+6)[ 25 ]  (Disadvantage from Heavy Armor is negated by Advantage from Boots of Elvenkind)

Guidance for Herbert -  (1d4)[ 3 ] 
 
 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
Bori shudders at the architecture around them, every negative feeling about sedentary dwelling confirmed a thousand fold. He tries ti stay as quiet as possible. He even reaches out to the stone beneath their feet, urging the spirits to guide Nethis and soften her the sounds of her awa scraping the floor.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Perception
 (1d20+5)[ 16 ]  Or  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
Stealth Bori
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
Stealth Nethis with Guidance
 (1d20+3)[ 16 ]  Plus  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
 
J-H
 
 Spoiler 

 perception  (1d20)[ 20 ]  plus mods
tealth  (1d20)[ 9 ]  plus mods and guidance. Think base -1 and disadvantage  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
 
truemane
  RUE  

Still feeling more than a little self-conscious about how easily she lost control of herself during the fight and  exposed  her heritage, Rue  kept to the periphery of the group. As they narrowed to single file, she would either stick to the back or move to the front, whichever seemed the most useful (and she would do whichever she was asked, were she asked).

Once in the catacombs, she picked her way around, dropping sometimes to all-fours, moving slowly and silently.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perception: (1d20+6)[21]
Stealth: (1d20+7)[26]
 
dangelo
[Stealth check successful]

Thousands of bats slept on the ceiling of the catacombs, forming a blanket of darkness that stretched all over the stone surface. Up ahead, a group of ten Barovians gathered around a tomb, joining their efforts to bust it open and steal whatever's inside.They were all armed and equipped for battle, but none of them looked like real warriors.

They don't seem to notice you.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Seeing the people ahead of them, Zinro stopped and whispered:   "How did they get in here? And how are they still alive? This feels like a trap. I could could cast Fireball from here, dispatch them all at once; although the bats might take flight at such a loud noise."  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 
  I'd be remiss to kill them in cold blood,   Asha whispers in reply,   Could be that Strahd toys with all visitors to his castle, including the grave robbers, and that's why they've been allowed to make it this far. Should we approach them?  
 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 Are these tombs? Six below, that's even more disgusting than burial in the ground! The spirits of the dead must be very jealous here, they'll have ghosts haunting them before they know it! 

Bori's hands twitched nervously as he weighed up theur options.

 I could try talking to them, being friendly? I doubt I can talk them out of getting themselves cursed, but I getting them to let us past shouldn't be too difficult...I hope. 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Seeing the people ahead of them, Zinro stopped and whispered:   "How did they get in here? And how are they still alive? This feels like a trap. I could could cast Fireball from here, dispatch them all at once; although the bats might take flight at such a loud noise."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai;25872265[COLOR="#0000CD" 
  I'd be remiss to kill them in cold blood, [/COLOR] Asha whispers in reply,   Could be that Strahd toys with all visitors to his castle, including the grave robbers, and that's why they've been allowed to make it this far. Should we approach them?   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Bori's hands twitched nervously as he weighed up theur options.

 I could try talking to them, being friendly? I doubt I can talk them out of getting themselves cursed, but I getting them to let us past shouldn't be too difficult...I hope.  
 

"Good idea," Yikkol whispers, joining the group again briefly. "I reckon you're the best talker amongst us.

"While you do that, I'll take a look around these tombs and see what I can learn. If any of you can see in the dark, you may join me."

She disappears again and heads off into a far corner to search for any signs of the Architect's Guild. Later, she'd be forced to admit that this was a desperate attempt. Her mother's bones were likely in an unmarked grave—if she were lucky.
dangelo
 "It's no good! It won't budge!"  Cried one of the Barovians. The middle age man let go of the heavy crowbar he had been using to bust the crypt open, his voice echoing through the catacombs.

 "Hand it over! Keep watch while I try."  Another took his place. The entire group seemed hesitant, yet desperate enough to be robbing cursed graves.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Your stealth rolls were good enough that you can slink to the side and explore the rest of the room (even the ones who didn't roll Stealth can follow along stealthily, tho you must cut the lights for that to work). Will update Owlbear since characters with Darkvison had great Stealth results.
 
dangelo
It took Yikkol several minutes to read the inscriptions under the faint glow of a candle, hiding the flame with her body while lurking deep in the shadows. None of the grave robbers noticed as she crawled from crypt to crypt, scouting the way to make sure it was safe for her colleagues, but also pursuing something of personal interest.

She quickly noted that the catacombs had 5 exits: The main spiral staircase, a side access at the north-eastern corner, and three special tombs. But it was only at the 19th crypt, starting at the northeasternmost corner and sweeping her way down, that Yikkol held her breath:

It took Yikkol several minutes to read the inscriptions under the dim candlelight, keeping the small flame hidden and sticking to the shadows. None of the grave robbers noticed her as she crawled from crypt to crypt, scouting the way to make sure it was safe for her colleagues, but also pursuing something of personal interest. It was only at the 14th crypt, starting at the northeasternmost corner and sweeping her way down, that Yikkol held her breath:

 "Artimus, the Architect of Ravenloft." 

The name sounded familiar to her, though she couldn't be sure if Artimus had been a member of her guild or simply associated with it. Either way, this master wizard had lived over a century ago and disappeared mysteriously during his elderly years, leaving no trace.
TaiLiu
Maybe this was someone from the guild. Maybe this is a mass grave of all the architects. Maybe… Oh, Fates, please. Please. Please let this trip not be in vain. Please let my mom’s bones be in here.

Yikkol pulls out her own crowbar and begins to pry, ignoring the Barovians nearby.
dangelo
The noise of iron scrapping against stone winded through the narrow corridors of the catacombs. The Barovians were making their fair share of noise, allowing Yikkol to work stealthily. In just a few seconds, she managed to drag the stone coffin and release it from its crypt.

Inside, a dead man slept a peaceful sleep. He wore the ruined remains of a suit of armor and carried a sword on his belt. Whoever he was, it didn't match the profile of Artimus.

OOC: Everyone must roll Perception
TaiLiu
As her candlelight dances over the face of the armored man, Yikkol's cusses inwardly. Were the names all wrong? Would she have to search all the coffins?

Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 24 ] .
dangelo
The sleeping soldier suddenly opened his eyes and raised his claws in the air, hissing loudly. A chill went up the spine of each of the Barovians in those catacombs. Without a word, they all dropped their tools and prepared to run away as fast as possible. Bori, who was making his way to the grave robbers in an attempt to establish dialogue, was privileged with a vantage point: he could see both Yikkol and the grave robbers, however neither could see the other. Rue, a few paces behind, just had a bad feeling about this; Her gut told her something was off, and her instincts revealed to be right from the start. The others were too caught up in the middle of the chaos, and were taken by surprise by the zombie attack.

 
 Spoiler: ooc 
 "Without a word, they all dropped their tools and prepared to run away as fast as possible." 
/\
This will only happen in the Barovians' round.
 
 
 Spoiler: combat 
Initiative order: (surprise round!)

Asha 20
Bori 19
 Zinro 17 
Rue 17
 Barovians 10 
Yikkol 9
Zombies 9
 Herbert 4 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

The sudden noise and reaction from the graverobbers alerts Asha that something is amiss. With the instincts of a centuries old veteran mercenary, he rushes forward to find where Yikkol had gone. He moves toward the group of tomb raiders, but suddenly sees Yikkol to his left being attacked by a zombie.   Wait!   he calls to the thieves, who are ready to drop everything and run,   we can help each other!  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
Asha is immune to the Surprised condition.

Move - Move forward.
Action - Dash.
 

 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The halfling begins walking slowly towards the group of barovians, trying to think of an ope ing gambit. Offer them a drink? A corny joke? Offer to help? Then he hears the scrapes coming from Yikkol's direction and the unmistakable tang of undeath.

 Boldrei's britches!  He sprints towards his ally whilst drawing his faintly glowing blade.

 
 Spoiler 
Dash action to make it to Yikkol's side.
 
dangelo
In the chaos that followed, only three of the Barovians were sane enough to listen to Asha. They remained still, weapons at hand, while the other seven ran for their lives, trampling over one another in a desperate attempt to reach the stairs.

Next: Yikkol
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The sleeping soldier suddenly opened his eyes and raised his claws in the air, hissing loudly. 
 

Yikkol stumbles back, reaches for the whip on her belt, and lashes the soldier across the face, attempting to behead it.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 16 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 15 ]  = 21 slashing. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Boldrei's britches!  He sprints towards his ally whilst drawing his faintly glowing blade. 
 

And then she feels her fear suddenly subside. Yikkol turns and sees Bori standing there.

Her words stumble over one another. "I... I thought my mother's bones would be in here. She was an architect. And the crypt said—"

The sound of new hisses interrupts her.

"There's more of them. The treasure! Cover me."

She runs off towards the direction of the east tomb. Perhaps that's where the treasure lay. If they were lucky, the treasure would put these undead to rest—for good.

 
 Cunning Action: Disengage. 
 Move 30 feet away. 
 
dangelo
Yikkol's whip cracked loudly, and black blood spilled on the stone floor. The weapon cried fiercely, and the zombie's neck exploded in blood and gore. The head was severed from the body, but - For the Morninglord, now it
moved on its own!

At the same time, the catacombs were filled with the sound of stone dragging on stone. Twelve other crypts were suddenly burst open, their coffins sliding into open space in unison.

Zombie 1 attacks Bori
Zombie 2 moves and attacks Bori
Zombies 3, 7 and 8 move and attack Asha
Zombies 4, 5, 10 and 11 move and attack Yikkol
Zombies 6 and 12 dash towards Yikkol
Zombie 13 dashes towards Bori

Zombie 1 attacks Bori
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 15 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  (severed head)
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 

Zombie 2 attacks Bori
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

---------

Zombie 3 attacks Asha
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 

Zombie 7 attacks Asha
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 

Zombie 8 attacks Asha
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 5 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

---------

Zombie 4 attacks Yikkol
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

Zombie 5 attacks Yikkol
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 5 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 9 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 

Zombie 10 attacks Yikkol
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 

Zombie 11 attacks Yikkol
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 6 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 

Next: Herbert
TaiLiu
Yikkol bobs and weaves through the catacombs, avoiding the zombies' bites but falling pray to their terrible claws and nails.

She spends a reaction to use Uncanny Dodge and takes 19 points of damage. 4 of those points are blocked by her temporary hit points. Thanks, Bori. :D
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert attempts to move past the fleeing Barovians, but in their panic, they foul his path.

 
 Spoiler 

Athletics  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
vs
Cowardly graverobber  (1d20)[ 12 ]  plus mods
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

In the blink of an eye, chaos erupts in the catacombs. Zombies lurch from their crypts with startling speed, and the heroes find themselves separated and surrounded by zombies and frantic Barovians. Asha remains calm, having been in countless scenarios like this. The zombies claw and bite at him, but all save one are unable to penetrate the bionoid armor. One zombie gets a solid strike in, and Asha activates the shield on his arm to repulse the undead away from him. He looks around to reposition, but he is pressed in by the Barovians. He cuts the air with a sharp gesture of his hand,   Clear the way!   before lashing out with fists at one of the zombies.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 Reaction 
  Repulsion Shield   - Immediately after being crit by the zombie, Asha spends 1 charge of the shield to push that zombie away 15ft.

Not sure which zombie is the one that struck him so I'll let Dangelo move the token.
 

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
  Bonus Action   - Defensive Field (gain 10THP)
  Action   - Attack Zombie 3
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 12 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 15 ] 
Extra Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 28 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
  Hit Effect   - Zombie 3 has Disadvantage to attack anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn.
 

 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

As the undead creatures surround him Bori has flashbacks to the painfully intelligent Karnathi nightmares that tore Nethis apart. He almost reaches a hand out to touch Rue, so glad is he of her proximity. Instead he breaths deeply, calling upon the echoes of Nethis's ancestors that he hoped walked with him even here.

His mask begins to glow and spectral reptilian forms momentarily circle him, raking at the surrounding zombies before fading away once more.

 Nethis, stay back you hear, I'm fine!  A disgruntled hiss echoes from the bottom. Of the stairs.

 
 Spoiler: Action 
Word of Radiance. DC 16 Con save for all zombies within 5ft of him for  (2d6)[ 8 ]  radiant damage.
Z1  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
Z2  (1d20)[ 1 ] 
Z3  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Z - head  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was caught off guard by the sudden rush of zombies and the scattering of the Barovians. He couldn't see what was happening and the Barovians were impolitely blocking his route forward. He took a step to the side to see the side passage better and muttered some arcane words. There was a brief pop, as reality bended in on itself, and Zinro vanished; only to immediately reappear on the other side of the Barovians. He quickly moved to see down the line of tombs and let off a bolt of fire at the nearest zombie.

Elsewhere, Dot simply remained attached to Yikkol's leg.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Action + Bonus Action to maneuverer and Misty Step past the Barovians and get line of sight.
Main Action to cast the Cantrip Fire Bolt at Zombie 13:  (1d20+8)[ 10 ]  for  (2D10+4)[ 12 ]  Fire Damage (+4 coming from Potent Cantrip feature)
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (Long Rest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Still somewhat disquieted (both by her loss control, and her compatriots' reactions), Rue tries to keep control over the powerful rush of her emotions.

She emits a growl and snarl and hurls herself headlong at the moving severed head, without any regard for her own safety. Zombies were bad enough, but if something very weird and very bad were going to happen here, this seemed to her to be the most likely source.

Even without her anger, and without her claws, Rue was a formidable fighter. Her long, thin porcelain-white fingers balled into fists as cold and hard as marble.

She struck the head as many times as necessary.

 
 Spoiler 

Reckless Attack!

Unarmed attack at the Severed Head. If she kills it before she's done, Zombie 1 is her next target. If she amazingly kills both, she'll move to engage Zombie 10 and 11.

Attack 1: 25 to hit for 13 magical bludgeoning damage
Attack 2: 27 to hit for 13 magical bludgeoning damage
Off hand: 24 to hit for 2 magical bludgeoning damage
 
dangelo
The severed head succumbed under Rue's hammer fists, reduced to a mass of black blood and rotten brains, and its body collapsed along with it.

Frightened and horrified, most of the Barovians kept running towards the staircase. The three who had kept themselves together were nervously clutching their weapons, their hands, shaking, eyes jumping from one side of the battle to the other, trying to figure out what to do.

Next: Yikkol
TaiLiu
Using the crypt's brickwork and the zombies' heads as leverage, Yikkol pulls herself up and away from the undead monstrosities clawing at her feet. Then—goat-like—she climbs around, leaps off, lands on her feet, and bolts towards the east tomb.

 
 Cunning Action to Disengage. 
 Action to Dash. 
 Move to move 60 ft towards the east tomb. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Wide steps descend to a landing flanked by two alcoves. Within each alcove, taking up the full thirty-foot height of the ceiling, is a bronze statue of a warrior holding a spear. A soft blue curtain of light flows between the two alcoves. Dimly visible on the other side of the curtain are more descending stairs. 
 

"This way!" she says, partly to the Barovians and partly to her companions. "There are more stairs here. And this light..."

 
 Interact with an object to "sheathe" her whip. 
 
dangelo
Responding to the chaos of battle and the cries of the zombies, the wavering ceiling shattered in a thousand bats, and the creatures descended in a storm of chirps and bites. However, they seemed to be organized or at least compelled into targeting one specific adventurer:

8 Bite attacks on  Lord Zinro  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  for  (2d4)[ 3 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 19 ]  for  (2d4)[ 5 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  for  (2d4)[ 3 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (2d4)[ 5 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 19 ]  for  (2d4)[ 2 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  for  (2d4)[ 2 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  for  (2d4)[ 6 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (2d4)[ 4 ]  damage

Zombie 2 and Zombie 13 lose interest in the fleeing Yikkol and instead attack Bori with all they have. A whirlwind of claws and teeth assaulted him with the stench of the grave.

Zombie 2 attacks  Bori 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 2 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  damage (Crit!  +6  damage, total  13 )
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  damage

Zombie 13 attacks  Bori 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Farther ahead, a whole swarm of zombies was suddenly dumbfounded; They bumped their heads against one another trying to follow the blur that was Yikkol, wallrunning her way out of that tight spot and disappearing from the sight of the zombies by turning around a corner. With little else to do, they merged with their peers against the closest visible target.

Zombie 10 attacks  Asha 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 2 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 11 attacks  Asha 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 12 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 12 attacks  Asha 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  damage

Zombie 4 attacks  Rue 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 6 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  damage

Zombie 5 attacks  Rue 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  damage

Zombie 6 attacks  Rue 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 9 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 8 Dashes towards Herbert.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
On each of their turns, the swarms moved past Lord Zinro, attacked, and moved away from him. They all ended their movement up to 3 squares away from him.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert burns the nearby zombie with holy flame.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred Flame  (3d8)[ 19 ]  radiant, Dex DC 16 to negate
Zombie 8 Dex  (1d20)[ 8 ]  plus mods
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

With impressive speed and agility, Asha can see that Yikkol escapes the undead around her and makes it to the far side of the chamber. The zombies turn their attention to the others and press in. They rake and bite at Asha, but the bionoid armor can withstand far worse. Asha moves back to give himself space, then dials up the sonic disruptors on the palms of his gauntlets, and lets loose a blast of thunderous energy on the zombies crowding around him, pushing them back with tremendous force.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 
Asha moves back 5ft.

Opportunity Attacks from the zombies rolled in OOC. All miss.

  Action   - Thunderwave, Con save DC 17, 11 Thunder damage (save for half), and pushed back 10ft
Zombie saves rolled in OOC (not sure what their modifiers are)
Zombie 3 (1d20)[7]
Zombie 11 (1d20)[13]
Zombie 7 (1d20)[13]
Zombie 12 (1d20)[14]
Zombie 10 (1d20)[5]

Asha moves over 1 square to be in Bori's aura and Herbert's aura.
 

 
 
  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Grunting as undead claws tear a jagged gash down his leg, Bori continues to channel the saurian spirits. Incorporated jaws and claws lash out around him once more.

At the same moment, Nethis's frustration gets the better of her and she lunges at the nearest zombie.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
DC 16 Con save for  (1d10)[ 1 ]  radiant damage. (10 radiant damage as per OOC thread).
Z1  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
Z2  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Z13  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
Bats  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
Bats  (1d20)[ 16 ] 

Nethis adjusts and assists Herbert in trying the break free.
 (1d20+5)[ 24 ]  For  (1d8+3)[ 9 ]  piercing damage.
Bonus action Dodge.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Having been swarmed by bats, covered in bites, and losing his temper, Zinro growled and yelled out, in Elven:   "ENOUGH!"  

Waving his hands around him and tracing arcane patterns, Zinro pointed at the the corner of the nearby crypt and a small orange bead ejected from his finger. It impacted the corner crypt and a huge fireball erupted from the site of impact. The patterns that Zinro had traced allowed the fire to flow around himself, and around Bori and Rue; leaving them unharmed.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Fireball at 5th Level, Sculpt Spell to avoid all damage to myself, Bori, and Rue. Red Circle added to Owlbear Rodeo to show area of effect.

Dex Save DC 16 for Half Damage; please add appropriate modifiers

Bat Swarm 1:  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
Bat Swarm 2:  (1d20)[ 19 ] 
Bat Swarm 3:  (1d20)[ 7 ] 
Bat Swarm 4:  (1d20)[ 19 ] 
Bat Swarm 5:  (1d20)[ 18 ] 
Bat Swarm 7:  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
Bat Swarm 8:  (1d20)[ 2 ] 

Zombie 2:  (1d20)[ 1 ] 
Zombie 4:  (1d20)[ 15 ] 
Zombie 13:  (1d20)[ 18 ] 

Damage =  (10D6+4)[ 39 ]  Fire Damage, save for half
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  
The attacks from the undead creatures barely registered on Rue. Most of them, slid off her own semi-undead skin without inflicting any damage. The remaining few were little more than scratches to her.

She closed her eyes in terror as flames erupted all around her. In that moment of darkness, as the flames played out against her closed eyelids, she could smell the torches and hear the anger of dozens of mobs over the endless years, casting her out, driving her into the shadows beyond the light of life and safety and community.

But then the flames receded and she was herself again, shaken bur resolved.

She struck out at the nearest creatures, seeing if she could topple whichever seemed the nearest collapse.

 
 Spoiler 

Attacking whatever zombies seem the most damaged:
Attack 1: attack 23 for 10 magical bludgeoning damage
Attack 2: attack 26 for 9 magical bludgeoning damage
Bonus/Off-Hand Attack: Attack 11 for 9 magical bludgeoning damage
 
dangelo
Finally, the chaotic mass of frightened Barovians reached the spiral staircase and vanished from the catacombs. Only three of them remained, too hesitant to join the battle but brave enough to stay were they were and avoid getting in the way of the combatants.

Half of the bats was incinerated, but the hundreds of creatures still swarmed around Lord Zinro. Down at ground level, the zombies collapsed under the magic that was cast at them by Bori and Herbert, and the relentless blows from Rue and Asha.

When Rue's fists hit the zombie like hammers, the monster raised its arm to defend itself. The fibers of its muscles were rotten and gave away easily, and each of the girl's punches sent one of its arms flying away.
TaiLiu
It's dark. Yikkol can hear the sounds of fighting coming from her upper right, but the columns and walls obscure her sight. She had to get them away from her companions and towards the wall of blue light.

In the distance, she sees Herbert's bright shield, the dinosaur, a couple of zombies... and are those bats attacking? She grabs her crossbow and fires at undead monstrosity #8 near Nethis.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 7 ]  &amp;  (5d6)[ 25 ]  is 32 damage. 
 
"Hey!" she shouts at the zombies. "Hey! This way! I'm tasty and easy to catch and I hate Strahd, your master! Don't you wanna attack me?"

As they begin to approach, Yikkol disappears through the blue light and into the east tomb. She throws herself against a wall and reloads her crossbow.

 
 Move to move behind the wall. 
 Cunning Action to hide:  (1d20+12)[ 19 ] . 
 
dangelo
Taking cover against the staircase, Yikkol lifted her head just enough to aim at the zombie, crawling like a soldier in the trenches. She loosed a bolt and it flew straight through the zombie's skull, splattering rotten brains and gore all over the stone floor.

She turned to the royal crypt and launched herself through the curtain of light, and then... nothing.

 You were judged... UNWORTHY. 

The bronze statues that guarded the crypt gained life and stepped down from their pedestals. Standing over thirty feet tall, they raised their poleaxes in the air and hacked at Yikkol at the same time, forming a cross in the air and sending her head flying into the air.

Yikkol's head rolled on the floor and her body collapsed like a bag of potatoes. The statues went back to their places and the curtain of light was formed again. Once again, the royal crypt was kept safe from invaders as graverobbers.

 Snap. 

The illusion was gone. Yikkol found herself back at the top of the staircase that lead down into the royal crypt, next to the Barovians who remained in the catacombs. Her head was spinning, a slitting headache taking over her as her mind distinguished reality from illusion.

Yikkol: Constitution save DC 18 not to be stunned till the end of your next round

Next: Swarm of Bats
TaiLiu
Yikkol leans against the handrails and vomits onto a nearby Barovian. Her head! Fates, what was that?

 
 Constitution versus DC 18:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] . 
 
dangelo
Four  Bloodied Swarm of Bats  attack  Lord Zinro 
 (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d4)[ 3 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  for  (1d4)[ 3 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  for  (1d4)[ 2 ]  damage
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d4)[ 3 ]  damage

One  Swarm of Bats  attacks  Lord Zinro 
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (2d4)[ 6 ]  damage

-----

Zombies 3, 7, 10, 11, 12 and 13 attack  Asha .
Disadvantage from Icon of Ravenloft.

Zombie 3
Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 2 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 20 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 7
Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 10
Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  damage

Zombie 11
Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  damage

Zombie 12
Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 22 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 13
Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claws:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  damage
dangelo
Oops - Forgot about two zombies:

Zombies 5 and 6 attack  Rue 

Zombie 5
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ]  damage
Claw:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  damage
Claw:  (1d20+3)[ 9 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  damage

Zombie 6
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ]  for  (1d4+1)[ 3 ]  damage
Claw:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  damage
Claw:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  damage
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the bats came swooping down at him again, Zinro reacted by muttering arcane words. In an instant, a translucent silver shield enveloped him and deflected the swarm's attacks.

 
 Spoiler 
As a Reaction, cast Shield; blocking the attacks that hit
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert advances into the room and holds the symbol of Pelor high.   "I abjure you, foul creatures!  Be at rest, as you should be!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Turn Undead
Each undead that can see or hear you within 30 feet of you must make a WIS saving throw (DC 16). If the creature fails its saving throw, it is turned for 1 minute or until it takes any damage. A turned creature must spend its turns trying to move as far away from you as it can, and it can’t willingly move to a space within 30 feet of you. It also can’t take reactions. For its action, it can use only the Dash action or try to escape from an effect that prevents it from moving. If there’s nowhere to move, the creature can use the Dodge action.
 Undead CR 1 or lower are destroyed 
All the zombies within 30' can see or hear him.
Zombie saves, plus any mods
3  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
5  (1d20)[ 10 ] 
6  (1d20)[ 17 ] 
7  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
10  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
11  (1d20)[ 12 ] 
12  (1d20)[ 7 ] 
13  (1d20)[ 18 ] 
arm left  (1d20)[ 8 ] 
arm right (1d20)[ 16 ] 
 
dangelo
Cries of horror filled the catacombs. The zombies fled in terror, running away from the "Bright Light", the ancient divine magic that burnt their skins and boiled their blood. One by one, they were engulfed by the light and disintegrated by Herbert's words. Only two of them survived, heavily damaged, running away like terrified hyenas.

"Damned be us..." Said one of the three Barovians who had remained in the catacombs. The battlefield was quiet once again.

End of Combat!
TaiLiu
"Well done, your holiness!"

Then, in a quieter voice to the Barovian she vomited on: "Sorry about that. It's these statues..."

She turns around and examines both the statues and the curtain of blue light. As an experienced dungeon crawler, does she see any runes or places to disarm the trap? Could she squeeze past one of the statues or topple one over?
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

As Asha backs up toward Bori and Rue, the zombies rush forward still, pressing him against a sarcophagus. Their rotted teeth and nails scratch and pull at Asha's armor, but do not penetrate. Still, he has a hard time moving as the weight of all of them pin him to the stone. He looks around and then up, wondering if he should take flight again. But suddenly, he hears Herbert's voice ring out, and the chamber is lit by a bright light. All but two of the zombies are instantly destroyed by the light, and the remaining two flee in terror.

Asha quickly checks on the others to make sure everyone is okay. The zombies, individually, were not powerful. But in enough numbers, any hostile can be life-threatening.

He gives a curt nod to the cleric, then calls out to Yikkol,   Yikkol, are you okay?  
 
 
  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 He gives a curt nod to the cleric, then calls out to Yikkol,   Yikkol, are you okay?   
 

"I'm all right!" Yikkol shouts back. She has bruises and scratches all over, but they don't seem serious. She's examining the statues.

"Just trying to figure out out to get around this curtain. There's some stairs down. You know magic, right? Do you know what this is?"
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 102/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  
Rue stood up and stepped away from the broken corpses at her feet. Just before they had been driven off, she had endured several savage attacks from the creatures. Her chest and face were rent by several deep cuts and tears in her strange flesh.

But she did not bleed.

She snarled at the fleeing zombies, gave the Barovians a contemptuous look, and started walking the perimeter of the area, looking for anything concerning.

(knowing, as she did, that she would be of no assistance in figuring out traps or markings)

 
 Spoiler 

Using my Second Wind:
 (1d10+2)[ 11 ] 
EDIT: HP total in statblock, above, accounts for this.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert looks around for a moment.   "Thank Pelor.  What set them off? I heard a lot of clattering right before all the yelling and fighting started." 
He tries to figure out where the two remaining zombies ran off to.  If they are cowering in the far corners of the room, or are visible without leaving the room, he will burn them to a crisp with  Sacred Flame .

After that, he'll approach the remaining Barovians.   "The Blessing of Pelor be upon you.  This is a very dark place.  How did you come to be here, and what were you after." 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Borders out a long whistle of appreciation at the blast of undead-destroying power. Nethis leaps past the others yo nuzzle him and Gissing over his wounds.

 It's difficult not to get split up in these corridors! Younreally saved our tribex there! 

He briefly looks the Barovians over and tries to start the parley he'd missed before.

 Well it's lovely to see other living people down here! Can we help you at all? What brings you down here anyway? 
 
 Spoiler: Roll 
Persuasion to get them to talk
 (1d20+8)[ 28 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro maintained a defensive stance for a few moments longer; in case there were anymore surprising immediately coming. When nothing seemed to jump out at him, he relaxed slightly and made his way over to the group.

The others can see Zinro's fine clothes and cloak covered in scratches and spots of blood, as also see that Zinro himself looks a little worse for wear.

Whilst the others were busy speaking with the Barovians, Zinro began to cast spells of mending and cleaning to fix his attire. (Mending + Prestidigitation to mend and clean my clothes)

  "Might I suggest we take a breather? That last fight was quite intense and perhaps it'll give us time to get acquainted with these....  people ."   Zinro almost sounded disgusted when he said the final word.
dangelo
"Why, same thing as you." The bearded man nodded. "There's gold and silver in these crypts"

He realized that thirteen of the crypts now lay open, their treasures exposed. The three men exchanged a worried look. "Ye wanna split?" He asked in hesitation. After seeing the battle, he knew they had no chance to keep the gold if these adventurers decided to take it all.

Meanwhile, Yikkol inspected the bronze statues and concluded she could indeed topple them over by climbing the stone walls behind them and pushing them with both feet and her back against the wall.

 
 Spoiler: If Yikkol does so 
A loud crash filled the catacombs, and giant pieces of bronze armor scattered around the stone floor. The blue curtain of light shimmered an disappeared. Underneath the statue, carved on its pedestal, were ancient arcane runes that could be studied to identify the properties of this barrier.

(Quote this post if you topple the statue!)
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Meanwhile, Yikkol inspected the bronze statues and concluded she could indeed topple them over by climbing the stone walls behind them and pushing them with both feet and her back against the wall.

If Yikkol does so: A loud crash filled the catacombs, and giant pieces of bronze armor scattered around the stone floor. The blue curtain of light shimmered an disappeared. Underneath the statue, carved on its pedestal, were ancient arcane runes that could be studied to identify the properties of this barrier. 
 

Oh, Fates. Finally.

Yikkol dusts herself off and pours some clear viscous alchemical solution over the worst of her injuries. It moves like syrup but smells strongly of alcohol. She watches as her injuries scab and then fade.

 
 Healer's Kit: Yikkol recovers  (1d6+14)[ 15 ]  hit points. 
 
To test if the blue curtain really was gone, Yikkol puts her hand through where the barrier used to be. Then she bends down and squints at the runes.


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Might I suggest we take a breather? That last fight was quite intense and perhaps it'll give us time to get acquainted with these....  people ."   Zinro almost sounded disgusted when he said the final word. 
 

"Good call. Come over here and I'll patch you up."

Yikkol waves him over, directs him to prop himself against the wall, and pours some more of that syrup onto his bloodiest wounds.

 
 If Zinro agrees, she'll use her Healer's Kit on him. He recovers  (1d6+14)[ 16 ]  hit points. 
 
"While you're here, could you look at these runes? They seem like magic. What do they do?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "Good call. Come over here and I'll patch you up."

Yikkol waves him over, directs him to prop himself against the wall, and pours some more of that syrup onto his bloodiest wounds.

 
 If Zinro agrees, she'll use her Healer's Kit on him. He recovers  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  hit points. 
 
"While you're here, could you look at these runes? They seem like magic. What do they do?" 
 

Zinro looked initially sceptical, but relented and did as he was told. As the medicine ran over his wounds, most began to close up.

  "My thanks."   He managed at length.   "Normally I stay far behind the frontline, but it seems like those bats had other ideas."   He muttered some more arcane words as he cast a spell on himself. (Casting Mage Armour on myself)

Standing up straight again, he took a look at the runes Yikkol directed him. Whilst he studied them he said:   "I hope you don't mind Dot being attached to you. If her presence bothers you I can take her back."  

(Arcana check to identify runes  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] )

(Assuming we are short-resting, Zinro will spend 1 HD and take the D8 from Bori:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  +  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] . He also will use Arcane Recovery to regain a 5th level spell slot, and use his Peal of Power to regain a 3rd level spell slot. Pearl cannot be used again until the next 'dawn'.)

Whilst resting, Zinro took out the brilliant pearl from before and muttered a word to it. The pearl glowed softly for a moment, the glow transferring to Zinro's hand, before returning to normal again.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 We don't mind sharing at all. We'd appreciate a little help though, any information you could give us about the rest of the castle would be really helpful. 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

"I'm all right!" Yikkol shouts back. She has bruises and scratches all over, but they don't seem serious. She's examining the statues.

"Just trying to figure out out to get around this curtain. There's some stairs down. You know magic, right? Do you know what this is?"

  Interesting. One moment, Yikkol, I will be right there.   Asha stays with Bori a moment longer to suss out what these Barovians are inclined to do.

 Well it's lovely to see other living people down here!  Bori says,  Can we help you at all? What brings you down here anyway? 

"Why, same thing as you." The bearded man nodds. "There's gold and silver in these crypts... want to split it?"

Asha raises an eyebrow, though it can't be seen behind his bionoid helmet.

 We don't mind sharing at all. We'd appreciate a little help though, any information you could give us about the rest of the castle would be really helpful. 

Asha nods his head in agreement with Bori,   Yes, information like how you got in and out, are you aware of other entrances and exits, did you expect to be confronted by any guardians and how you aimed to avoid them. We plan on going further, and any information will be helpful.  

Confident that Bori has a handle on the Barovians, Asha walks over to Yikkol. Lord Zinro is there, both are bruised and cut up. The wizard is attempting to make sense of the runes, but his focus is on healing.

  These are the runes here?   Asha says, stopping over to inspect them,   Let's see what we might have...  
 
 Spoiler: Arcana check on Runes 
 (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
 
 
 
  
dangelo
The runes didn't correspond to any incantations Lord Zinro was familiar with, but with Asha's help the elves were able to point out its properties. The spell belonged to the Abjuration school, but had runes of Illusion and Divination woven into it. Divination, to look into the souls of those who tried to trespass and judge them; Illusion, to assault their minds. The parameters to judge someone "worthy" were based on the morals and ethics of the Church of the Morninglord, allowing only what that church would consider a "Good" person to cross the curtain.

OOC: Only Lawful Good characters could cross the barrier. The barrier is out and the way is clear now.

Descending the stairs beyond the bronze guardians:

 This tomb rests in hushed silence. Tall, stained glass windows dominate the eastern walls, allowing dim light to fall on two coffins resting atop white marble slabs. The one against the north wall is marked King Barov von Zarovich, and the one against the south wall is marked Queen Ravenovia van Roeyen. The vaulted ceiling thirty feet overhead is inlaid with a beautiful gold mosaic. 
dangelo
  Well it's lovely to see other living people down here!  Bori says,  Can we help you at all? What brings you down here anyway? 

"Why, same thing as you." The bearded man nodds. "There's gold and silver in these crypts... want to split it?"

Asha raises an eyebrow, though it can't be seen behind his bionoid helmet.

 We don't mind sharing at all. We'd appreciate a little help though, any information you could give us about the rest of the castle would be really helpful. 

Asha nods his head in agreement with Bori,   Yes, information like how you got in and out, are you aware of other entrances and exits, did you expect to be confronted by any guardians and how you aimed to avoid them. We plan on going further, and any information will be helpful.   

The Barovians grew more comfortable around the adventurers. Now that they knew they were peaceful and had seen them in battle, it was clear that it was safer to stay close to them for now.

"Not much to share, sadly. We came through the front door... Some magician assaulted the castle long ago and came out maddened forever. He babbled over and over 'bout these crypts. Took us a few years to summon the courage and the men, but finally we did it."

"There's no game in the woods, sir." Intervened another, younger, Barovian man. "The wolves are servants of Strahd -- Seven hells, even some of the  trees  are on his side. And nothing grows in these cursed lands. We eat beans and eggs, and sometimes bread, when to the crops manage to survive."

"I don't remember the last time I ate a splash of butter... or that I found honeycombs in the woods.... Now it's all bleak and cold, and the animals are evil and the plants, poisonous. Even the roots and mushrooms that used to feed us are no longer good for us."
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 59/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert speaks with the Barovians for a little while.   "That sounds like a most foul curse.  I have heard of great sources of evil tainting the land about them.  We are here in hopes of putting an end to the evil.  What did you hope to find in these crypts?  Certainly not food.

What did the madman speak of?  Sometimes the ravings of the mad can contain nuggets of truth that the discerning may understand." 

Herbert shares his rations with the Barovians, giving them half of what's in his pack.  It's mostly jerky, dried fruits, and hardtack, but it's safe food.  If they eat it now, that's fine; if they decide to take it home to their families, all the better.


As the party proceeds into the tomb, Herbert offers a short prayer to Pelor, and then begins to examine the place, paying particular attention to the stained glass windows and any markings on them.   "The Count's...parents?" 

As the group settles in to pray, rest, and snack on their rations, Herbert asks Yikkol for help.   "I did take one hit from that vampiric knight.  Pelor grants me much power in healing, but dawn may be long in coming here.  Would you mind using your poultices and needle to stitch things up?"   As Yikkol works, Herbert winces a bit.  "I haven't been stitched up like this since I was young and just starting out." 
 
 Spoiler 

Checking to see if the place is actually safe before resting, or if anything feels "off."
Using CD to regain a 2nd level spell slot.  CD refreshes on a short rest, so I get both CDs back unless we are interrupted.
Yikkol's 1d6+14 clears the 14hp of damage.
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (Long Rest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Rue continued lurking at the periphery of the crypt as the others spoke with the Barovians. She suspected that her presence in the conversation would do more harm than good. This was almost always the case anyway, and would be even more likely here, where the Devil Strahd lived and ruled.

Frowning, she watched as Yikkol applied a substance to his own wounds, and Zinro's and Herbert. She was in some pain from her own wounds. It was muted, maybe, compared to someone who wasn't... like her. But it was pain all the same.

She circled the edges of the lighted area. Slowly making her quiet, careful way closer and closer to Yikkol.

She sat near him for a long, long time. She literally did not know how to ask for help. It had been years (decades, maybe) since she had been in the occasion to need help. And even longer since she had any expectation such a request would be received without fear and hatred.

Eventually she made a low, quiet cough in her throat. "Yikkol," she said, her voice small and unsure, mile from the restless anger she had thrown at Strahd earlier. "Yikkol. Could you. Perhaps?"

She gestured to the worst, and deepest, of the long jagged rents in her strange flesh.

 
 Spoiler 

Assuming Yikkol helps the poor girl out, she's back to max HP.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori joins Herbert in supplying the Barovians.  Please take these home to your families and wish us luck. If we can defeat Strahd then hopefully things will get better! 

Bori joins the others starting to set up a mini camp in the special tomb.  Thanks Yikkol, that salve feels amazing.  He whips up some small snack for anyone needed them, a deep feeling of comfort seeps out of.thr comfort food. He pauses whilst contemplating this tomb.  Can we fix that barrier? Put the statue back up? Might make it safer. 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Taken 34 damage so far.
Healing from Yikkol  (1d6+14)[ 17 ] 
2HD  (2d10+4)[ 17 ]  plus  (1d8)[ 3 ] 

At the end of the rest use renewed channel divinity and regain 2 spell slots
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro slowly walked around the tomb taking in it's details, as if he were a guest in some museum. He looked over at the stained glass windows and understood where they were in relation to the outside world. (Investigation passed in OOC). Knowing that there was a 1000ft drop just past the windows, Zinro subconsciously moved closer to the entrance of the tomb.

  "I believe we're directly underneath the chapel."   He said.   "And I believe you're correct: these must be Strahd's parents. Although they're titled 'King' and 'Queen', and Strahd is merely a 'Count'. How the mighty have fallen. You'd think his influence could have grown larger given his immortality and power; but instead it has shrunk to almost nothing. Pitiful."  

Zinro listened to the Barovian's plight, but didn't interact with them. Once he ruled this castle, he would have to see about changing the land to produce food again: he didn't want peasants assaulting his castle out of starvation.
dangelo
Seconds stretched into minutes. The Barovians - Igor, Aleksei and Orin, all with grizzled hair and tired shoulders - accepted the rations gratefully and munched on them throughout their brief moment of rest.


  "That sounds like a most foul curse. I have heard of great sources of evil tainting the land about them. We are here in hopes of putting an end to the evil. What did you hope to find in these crypts? Certainly not food.

What did the madman speak of? Sometimes the ravings of the mad can contain nuggets of truth that the discerning may understand."  

"He said...  'The castle's heart beats... Lost souls are tormented... I glimpsed a shadowed chamber, where an ancient evil slumbers. Beware the cryptic whispers that beckoned me closer... O, temptation! O, secret hidden knowledge! It is lost forever! The castle is alive! And will guard it forever!' " Aleksei recited. "His words made me shiver. Never forgot what he said, wandering madly into the Mist."

"Nothing grows here, but outsiders appear from the Mist every now and then. With gold and silver, we can buy their food. But you were kind enough to share." Orin gestured with the dried goat in his hand, munching on it as they talked. "That's a rare occasion."
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Standing up straight again, he took a look at the runes Yikkol directed him. Whilst he studied them he said:   "I hope you don't mind Dot being attached to you. If her presence bothers you I can take her back."   
 

"It's for magic, right? I don't mind," Yikkol says. "I'm just worried that she might fall off my leg if we need to run."


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Standing up straight again, he took a look at the runes Yikkol directed him. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   These are the runes here?   Asha says, stopping over to inspect them,   Let's see what we might have...   
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The runes didn't correspond to any incantations Lord Zinro was familiar with, but with Asha's help the elves were able to point out its properties. The spell belonged to the Abjuration school, but had runes of Illusion and Divination woven into it. Divination, to look into the souls of those who tried to trespass and judge them; Illusion, to assault their minds. The parameters to judge someone "worthy" were based on the morals and ethics of the Church of the Morninglord, allowing only what that church would consider a "Good" person to cross the curtain. 
 

Yikkol scoffs as this information is relayed to her.

"This Morninglord has strange morals. I've spent years tracking down my mother's bones like a faithful daughter should."

There's an uncomfortable pause. Then, defensively, softly, almost to herself: "I'm a good person. They understand that."


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Descending the stairs beyond the bronze guardians:

 This tomb rests in hushed silence. Tall, stained glass windows dominate the eastern walls, allowing dim light to fall on two coffins resting atop white marble slabs. The one against the north wall is marked King Barov von Zarovich, and the one against the south wall is marked Queen Ravenovia van Roeyen. The vaulted ceiling thirty feet overhead is inlaid with a beautiful gold mosaic.  
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 As the party proceeds into the tomb, Herbert offers a short prayer to Pelor, and then begins to examine the place, paying particular attention to the stained glass windows and any markings on them.   "The Count's...parents?"  
 

Yikkol takes a look around as well. She's less interested in the Count's family history than the others. Instead, she roots around for the treasure that the fortune-teller said for here.

 
 Investigation versus DC 16:  (1d20+5)[ 12 ] . 
 

 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 As the group settles in to pray, rest, and snack on their rations, Herbert asks Yikkol for help.   "I did take one hit from that vampiric knight.  Pelor grants me much power in healing, but dawn may be long in coming here.  Would you mind using your poultices and needle to stitch things up?"   As Yikkol works, Herbert winces a bit.  "I haven't been stitched up like this since I was young and just starting out."  
 

"Right away, your holiness!" Yikkol seems almost too eager to help and prove herself a moral person.

 
 Expends a healing kit use. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Frowning, she watched as Yikkol applied a substance to his own wounds, and Zinro's and Herbert. She was in some pain from her own wounds. It was muted, maybe, compared to someone who wasn't... like her. But it was pain all the same.

She circled the edges of the lighted area. Slowly making her quiet, careful way closer and closer to Yikkol.

She sat near him for a long, long time. She literally did not know how to ask for help. It had been years (decades, maybe) since she had been in the occasion to need help. And even longer since she had any expectation such a request would be received without fear and hatred.

Eventually she made a low, quiet cough in her throat. "Yikkol," she said, her voice small and unsure, mile from the restless anger she had thrown at Strahd earlier. "Yikkol. Could you. Perhaps?"

She gestured to the worst, and deepest, of the long jagged rents in her strange flesh. 
 

"Of course," Yikkol says. She approaches Rue at an awkward angle, clearly uncomfortable, and empties the bottle of salve over her wounds as well.

 
 Expends a healing kit use. 
 
Quietly: "Are you really Strahd's child? I thought that was a lie to split us apart. But then I saw you fight..."


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Bori joins the others starting to set up a mini camp in the special tomb.  Thanks Yikkol, that salve feels amazing.  He whips up some small snack for anyone needed them, a deep feeling of comfort seeps out of.thr comfort food. He pauses whilst contemplating this tomb.  Can we fix that barrier? Put the statue back up? Might make it safer.  
 

 
 Expends a healing kit use. 
 
"I'm not sure," Yikkol says. She looks over at Asha and Zinro. "Maybe they'd know."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "It's for magic, right? I don't mind," Yikkol says. "I'm just worried that she might fall off my leg if we need to run." 
 

Zinro nods.   "Correct. I am able to cast spells as if I were at her location, as long as she is within about 100ft of me. She will be fine, she has excellent grip."  

As for the barrier, Zinro said:   "I'm afraid I'm not much good with Abjuration, and I don't recognise the particular spell used here."  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha searches the crypts alongside the graverobbers, happy to leave them the coins, but in search of anything else that might help the party with their mission.

 
 Spoiler: Investigation 
 (1d20+9)[ 12 ] 
 


Once down in the tomb with the others, he sits and listens to the conversation. When he has a moment, he asks Herbert,   That light you summoned that destroyed the zombies. Can you do something like that against Strahd himself?  
 
 
  
J-H
 "Yes, but he may be strong enough to resist it... especially if he draws strength from the land around him.  For one like him?  It would probably, at best, repel him for a time." 
dangelo
As they talked, the six adventurers and Igor, Aleksei and Orin gathered the treasure from the crypts and put it in a pile of loot back in the tomb of King Barov and Queen Ravenovia. There were three jewel necklaces worth 750 coins each, one fur-lined cloak worth 500 coins, and a collection of other trinkets and jeweled daggers and gold plated helmets and silver holy symbols worth 600 coins in total.

In addition, one specific item was rather tricky to identify: Found in the crypt of  "King Katsky the Bright: Ruler, inventor, and self-proclaimed time traveler" , the treasure was a harness of sorts, a set of leather stripes that could be secured to one's thighs, chest and shoulders. After several attempts to make the weird gadget work, a pair of lightweight wings finally extended from the harness, giving whoever wore it the aspect of a flying squirrel or a huge bat.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro looked at the strange harness and the wings that unfurled from it. Subconsciously he imagined the death of it's owner: plummeting to the ground after seriously miscalculating his weight and wind resistance. Zinro shuddered and tore his eyes away. Instead, he eyed the treasure.

  "Well, Barovians, you said yourself, you have little need of treasure; and we intend to rid this place of Strahd on your behalf. Seems only fair to compensate us for saving your lives and solving your ultimate problem, no?"  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro nods.   "Correct. I am able to cast spells as if I were at her location, as long as she is within about 100ft of me. She will be fine, she has excellent grip."   
 

"That's fine, then. We have spiders like her back where I'm from."


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 As they talked, the six adventurers and Igor, Aleksei and Orin gathered the treasure from the crypts and put it in a pile of loot back in the tomb of King Barov and Queen Ravenovia. There were three jewel necklaces worth 750 coins each, one fur-lined cloak worth 500 coins, and a collection of other trinkets and jeweled daggers and gold plated helmets and silver holy symbols worth 600 coins in total. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro shuddered and tore his eyes away. Instead, he eyed the treasure.

  "Well, Barovians, you said yourself, you have little need of treasure; and we intend to rid this place of Strahd on your behalf. Seems only fair to compensate us for saving your lives and solving your ultimate problem, no?"   
 

"Let's just split the treasure fairly," Yikkol suggests. "The only treasure worth caring about are my mother's bones and Strahd's death."


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 In addition, one specific item was rather tricky to identify: Found in the crypt of  "King Katsky the Bright: Ruler, inventor, and self-proclaimed time traveler" , the treasure was a harness of sorts, a set of leather stripes that could be secured to one's thighs, chest and shoulders. After several attempts to make the weird gadget work, a pair of lightweight wings finally extended from the harness, giving whoever wore it the aspect of a flying squirrel or a huge bat. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro looked at the strange harness and the wings that unfurled from it. Subconsciously he imagined the death of it's owner: plummeting to the ground after seriously miscalculating his weight and wind resistance. 
 

Yikkol also looks skeptical. She gives everyone a look as the wings creak open.

"I really hope this isn't the treasure the fortune-teller was talking about. How is this meant to defeat Strahd? Shall we convince him to put it on and jump off a cliff?"

But she can't help but give the gadget a second look. Yikkol was a master craftswoman in the Makers' Guild, and her training and critical eye could not be turned off. A flying machine... Now that's a daring project.

 
 dangelo, Yikkol has proficiency in Tinker's Tools. Does the wingsuit seem safe, and does Yikkol think she can improve the wingsuit in any way? 
 
J-H
 Herbert Raycraft 
 "There's enough gold here to feed quite a few families for years...if there's food to be bought.  Plenty to share." 
If he feels the Barovians are being shortchanged after also risking their lives, he'll give them his share of the gold/jewels.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha inspects the harness and wings,   I don't think this will give us any great advantage against Strahd. Only seems to let someone glide, not take actual flight.   
 
  
dangelo
The special tomb was locked behind an iron porticullis. It was heavy and taken by rust, but with some effort the fellowship was able to pass through it.

 White marble steps descend to a tomb that has a vaulted ceiling thirty feet overhead. A stillness—a calm amid the storm—is felt here. In the center of the tomb, a white marble slab supports an intricately inlaid coffin. Chiseled into the slab is a name: Sergei von Zarovich. To the north, behind the coffin, are three alcoves. A beautifully carved statue stands in each alcove—a stunning young man flanked by two angels—looking as polished and new as the day each was placed there. 
truemane
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Quietly: "Are you really Strahd's child? I thought that was a lie to split us apart. But then I saw you fight..." 
 

Rue frowned and sank deeper into her hooded cloak. "I don't know for certain. I have only the word of two liars that it's true. But the Vistani protected me even though they feared me. The Barovians, the ancestors of these same people here, reviled and detested me." She pulled her hood back a bit and looked up at Yikkol. "I look young, but I am old. And every step I have taken in my long, long life has been dogged by wolves, the Mists, shadows, misfortune and death."

She paused.

"I believe I am Strahd's true issue. I believe he has been chasing me all these years. Driving me so I would eventually return to him. And so I have. But not to join him. To destroy him."

As the treasure piles up Rue gives the valuables a single contemptuous sniff and backs away from it. "Please give my share to the Barovians to split as they will. They will have need of it, however our errand ends. I will not."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro frowned as he was outvoted for the treasure split with the Barovians. If he and his party were ridding the land of Strahd, what use would they have of gold? Ah, but perhaps he would be able to recoup the losses in the form of development taxation? Yes... long term goals, that was the key! Peasants were always distracted by short term wealth. He took his share of the treasure and pocketed it inside his Bag of Holding.


 


As the party began to explore the catacombs and came across the tomb of  Sergei von Zarovich , Zinro moved forward and began to utter arcane words of detection. His mind was suddenly open to the auras of magic around him.

 
 Spoiler 
Last time I spent trying to Ritual Cast Detect Magic we got ambushed, so I'll just cast as normal Detect Magic inside Sergei's Tomb. If the Tomb is bigger than the area of effect, Zinro will move around to sweep the room with the spell active.
 
dangelo
The stone coffin of Sergei von Zarovich contained a strong aura of positive energy, like a fiery heart pulsating within cold stone walls. When Lord Zinro imposed his hands over the coffin, his mind was flooded with visions of glorious battlefields, columns of armored men clashing against mounted knights, champions who carried bloodied swords in one hand and bright blue banners in the other; Leading the soldiers into war with a proud heart and an inspiring battle cry was Sergei von Zarovich, first son of King Barov and great champion of the Morninglord.

The coffin was guarded by the same kind of incantation behind the bronze guardians and the curtain of blue light: only those who were "worthy" would be able to open it. Or anyone who was strong enough to force the lid off the top of the coffin. [Strength check DC 15, costs an action]

As Zinro stepped away from the coffin, he suddenly noticed a second aura on top of the first, one much more delicate and subtle. The spell was a rather simple Alarm charm, an elementary spell but a useful one.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro took all this information in, letting the vision fully pass from his mind.

  "If we believe the King and Queen to be Strahd's parents, then Sergei is his older brother. I saw a vision of conquest; perhaps of this very land. Sergei led the armies of King Barov. I believe he was a paladin, or a cleric, of this Morninglord we keep hearing about. His coffin is protected by the same enchantment as the one we passed through to get to the King and Queen. I must profess that I would be affected by such countermeasures. However, it may be possible to force the lid open; but I also detect a spell of alarm upon the coffin. I do not know if the alarm will trigger if the coffin is opened in the 'correct' way, but if we do intend to open this coffin it is something to mindful of. In any case, there is a powerful source of positive energy coming from inside; perhaps the item we seek."  
J-H
 Herbert Raycraft 
 "Do you have the ability to disable the Alarm spell without it going off?  Perhaps there is a physical anchor that can be disrupted." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Do you have the ability to disable the Alarm spell without it going off?  Perhaps there is a physical anchor that can be disrupted."  
 

  "Now that I'm aware of the spell, yes I should be able dispel it safely."  

Zinro waves his hands over the coffin, uttering words of magical unbinding and destruction.

 
 Spoiler 
Zinro casts Dispel Magic on the coffin. Any spell that is affecting the coffin of 3rd level or lower is instantly dispelled; so it would include the 'worthy' check as well presumably. If the spell(s) is above 3rd level then I make a spellcasting ability check:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  vs DC 10 + Spell Level
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol takes 200 gold pieces worth of treasure and leaves the rest.

"Coming with us?" she says to the Barovians.

She doesn't care much about their well-being or whether they stay or go, but their presence might change things tactically.


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha inspects the harness and wings,   I don't think this will give us any great advantage against Strahd. Only seems to let someone glide, not take actual flight.   
 

"It's not very good," Yikkol admits. She pushes the wings shut and crams it into her bag. "When we next rest, I'll see if I can improve it."


 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Rue frowned and sank deeper into her hooded cloak. "I don't know for certain. I have only the word of two liars that it's true. But the Vistani protected me even though they feared me. The Barovians, the ancestors of these same people here, reviled and detested me." She pulled her hood back a bit and looked up at Yikkol. "I look young, but I am old. And every step I have taken in my long, long life has been dogged by wolves, the Mists, shadows, misfortune and death."

She paused.

"I believe I am Strahd's true issue. I believe he has been chasing me all these years. Driving me so I would eventually return to him. And so I have. But not to join him. To destroy him." 
 

Yikkol seems surprised at first. She did not expect this level of honesty from the child of her sworn enemy. But she quickly recovers and gives Rue a small smile.

"Then—bloodsucker or not—we share a common goal."


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Now that I'm aware of the spell, yes I should be able dispel it safely."  

Zinro waves his hands over the coffin, uttering words of magical unbinding and destruction. 
 

"Well? Did it work?" Yikkol seems impatient, eager to seize the treasure that will lead to Stahd's defeat.
J-H
 Herbert 
After the alarm is Disrupted, Herbert grasps the lid of the coffin and respectfully opens it.
dangelo
Herbert pushed the lid off the top of the coffin with ease. It felt weightless under his worthy touch, but still clanked loudly when it fell over the other side.

Inside was the ancient body of Sergei von Zarovich. The prince had been embalmed in pure gold, and his treasures, buried with him: His suit of armor, each piece carefully placed on top of his mummified body, and his longsword, the blade shattered right in the middle.

The suit of armor had been placed on top of the body rather than on the body itself. Forged with the best steel a king could afford, by the best craftsmen available, and enchanted by powerful magicians, the breastplate displayed a golden insignia of a rising sun, and its shoulder blades were decorated by wavy sun rays all the way around. A white cloak was also tied to the armor, both immaculate clean even locked in that coffin for centuries.

The sword was but a ruined weapon. The pommel and the guard were enameled with gold, and topazes and diamonds decorated the hilt. The blade, however, had been broken in half, and the second half, lost in time forever. Now, that was left of it had been reduced to the length of a dagger's blade.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As a man who lived in the Underdark, Zinro had very rarely seen the sun; but even he was slightly moved by the beauty of the golden armour, emblazoned with sun motifs.

  "Beautiful...."   He muttered before composing himself.   "Both the armour and the broken sword are magical. Positive energy magic."  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori waves to the Barovians, hoping they make it out safe from Strahd and their fled colleagues both.

He tries to ignore the tombs as they move to the other site. To him the zombies are definite proof that hoarding corpses and belonging they can no longer use is a perverse and unhealthy way to deal with loss. He has no qualms about taking more belongings from, but would definitely rather they didn't attract more undead than absolutely necessary.

He listens to Rue's admission about her parentage, Nodding along with his best supportive barman face.  You're worrying me, Rue. I hope we can defeat Strahd, and whether that means we can leave here or not it will.leave us us able to build something new for ourselves. That might mean free of ties to the past...if you must let your ancestors define you though, look at all of the others you have! 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Herbert pushed the lid off the top of the coffin with ease. It felt weightless under his worthy touch, but still clanked loudly when it fell over the other side.

Inside was the ancient body of Sergei von Zarovich. The prince had been embalmed in pure gold, and his treasures, buried with him: His suit of armor, each piece carefully placed on top of his mummified body, and his longsword, the blade shattered right in the middle.

The suit of armor had been placed on top of the body rather than on the body itself. Forged with the best steel a king could afford, by the best craftsmen available, and enchanted by powerful magicians, the breastplate displayed a golden insignia of a rising sun, and its shoulder blades were decorated by wavy sun rays all the way around. A white cloak was also tied to the armor, both immaculate clean even locked in that coffin for centuries.

The sword was but a ruined weapon. The pommel and the guard were enameled with gold, and topazes and diamonds decorated the hilt. The blade, however, had been broken in half, and the second half, lost in time forever. Now, that was left of it had been reduced to the length of a dagger's blade. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 As a man who lived in the Underdark, Zinro had very rarely seen the sun; but even he was slightly moved by the beauty of the golden armour, emblazoned with sun motifs.

  "Beautiful...."   He muttered before composing himself.   "Both the armour and the broken sword are magical. Positive energy magic."   
 

"Now this is treasure worth having!" Inexpert as she is, even Yikkol can feel the magic radiating from the armor and weapons.

"Zinro, what can these do? Perhaps his holiness could wear them in our battle against Strahd."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "Zinro, what can these do? Perhaps his holiness could wear them in our battle against Strahd." 
 

  "Much like with the Icon and the Mace, I would need 11 minutes to Identify each item; so 22 minutes. If we feel we are secure here for that long, then I can begin."  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha moves to a defensible position,   I think it's worth discovering what these items might do. I'll stand ready in case we receive any more visitors.
  
 
 
  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Very well."   Zinro stood over the items and began to chant once again, removing his Pearl of Power from the Bag of Holding and focusing on it as he ran his fingers over the armour and the broken sword.

 
 Spoiler 
Ritual Cast Identify, first on the Armour, and then on the Sword. 11 minutes for each, for a total of 22 minutes needed.
 
dangelo
The chamber was an island of light in the quietness of the catacombs; Only the incantations whispered by Lord Zinro broke the silence. An eerie uneasiness settled among the adventurers as the minutes went by, watched by stone angels in the alcoves above.

Sergei's suit of armor had seen many battles, and protected him from several killing blows, but none for the land of Barovia. It had been commissioned by King Barov to clad his son's body and keep him safe when protecting their realm, but never to conquer other lands.

Moving to the sword, Zinro was granted a glimpse of the moment the weapon was destroyed: Striking against Strahd's helmet and shattering it in a thousand pieces. Sergei himself was fallen on the ground, his younger brother above him, sword in hand, sinking it into Sergei's chest. Strahd was still human back then, but his face as already tainted with evil.

A note of sorrow came from the broken sword, almost as the weapon still lamented the way things ended.

 
 Spoiler 
 
 Full Plate +2 
 Longsword +2, Versatile, Finesse
The longsword can be "activated" with a bonus action. The actual effect will reveal itself once it's activated. 
 
 
dangelo
The chamber was an island of light in the quietness of the catacombs; Only the incantations whispered by Lord Zinro broke the silence. An eerie uneasiness settled among the adventurers as the minutes went by, watched by stone angels in the alcoves above.

Sergei's suit of armor had seen many battles, and protected him from several killing blows, but none for the land of Barovia. It had been commissioned by King Barov to clad his son's body and keep him safe when protecting their realm, but never to conquer other lands.

Moving to the sword, Zinro was granted a glimpse of the moment the weapon was destroyed: Striking against Strahd's helmet and shattering it in a thousand pieces. Sergei himself was fallen on the ground, his younger brother above him, sword in hand, sinking it into Sergei's chest. Strahd was still human back then, but his face as already tainted with evil.

A note of sorrow came from the broken sword, almost as the weapon still lamented the way things ended.

 
 Spoiler 
 
 Full Plate +2 
 Longsword +2, Versatile, Finesse
The longsword can be "activated" with a bonus action. The actual effect will reveal itself once it's activated. 
 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori peers over Zinro's shoulder as he analyses the relics of Strahd's brother.

 Half a sword is probably a better-sized weapon for me than any of you. When we get a chance I can speak to the heart of the blade and try to learn what it does. 

An involuntary shudder runs through him as he glances round the chamber and back out that the catacombs. Nethis nuzzles him soothingly.

 Is there anywhere else we need to go on this level? I think I've had my fill of tombs! 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Very well."   Zinro stood over the items and began to chant once again, removing his Pearl of Power from the Bag of Holding and focusing on it as he ran his fingers over the armour and the broken sword. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The chamber was an island of light in the quietness of the catacombs; Only the incantations whispered by Lord Zinro broke the silence. An eerie uneasiness settled among the adventurers as the minutes went by, watched by stone angels in the alcoves above.

Sergei's suit of armor had seen many battles, and protected him from several killing blows, but none for the land of Barovia. It had been commissioned by King Barov to clad his son's body and keep him safe when protecting their realm, but never to conquer other lands.

Moving to the sword, Zinro was granted a glimpse of the moment the weapon was destroyed: Striking against Strahd's helmet and shattering it in a thousand pieces. Sergei himself was fallen on the ground, his younger brother above him, sword in hand, sinking it into Sergei's chest. Strahd was still human back then, but his face as already tainted with evil.

A note of sorrow came from the broken sword, almost as the weapon still lamented the way things ended. 
 

Yikkol does a final sweep of the crypt as Zinro does his thing, ensuring that the party isn't leaving any valuable vampire-fighting tools behind. She pays special attention to the south tomb—the one directly opposite Sergei's.


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Bori peers over Zinro's shoulder as he analyses the relics of Strahd's brother.

 Half a sword is probably a better-sized weapon for me than any of you. When we get a chance I can speak to the heart of the blade and try to learn what it does. 

An involuntary shudder runs through him as he glances round the chamber and back out that the catacombs. Nethis nuzzles him soothingly.

 Is there anywhere else we need to go on this level? I think I've had my fill of tombs!  
 

Yikkol feels antsy, too, but for more violent reasons than Bori. The sooner the party finds the treasures and kills Strahd, the better.

"There's two paths we can take," Yikkol says, partly to Bori but mostly to the party at large:

 
 "I spotted a hidden door nearby, though I'm unsure where it leads." 
 "Alternately, we could head back to the chapel and then up the stairs." 
 
"Where to?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro finished chanting and returned the Pearl to his Bag.

  "The armour is truly exceptional plate armour; it has been magically enhanced to provide better protection than normal armour. Aside from this, there are no other additional properties. The sword has also likewise been magically enhanced to swing and damage more effectively than a normal longsword. I believe it can also be wielded dexterously. Finally, I believe that, despite being broken, the sword can be 'activated' to return it to it's former glory. I guess that whomever is bonded to the sword will be able to activate it."  

Zinro listens to Yikkol's scouting.

  "My vote is to continue exploring this area: the hidden door."  
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  
Rue was surprised by how calmly her companions accepted her confession. She had received much worse, much more violent responses, from people who did not even know who Strahd was, or have any reason to hate him. Her heritage, her unliving living nature, was enough.

But all the same, she kept herself to herself, knowing that their errand had a long ways to go, and compassion that flows freely in quiet and safety trickles and stops in danger.

Another attack by Strahd. And then another. Maybe a death? And they would turn on her.

Everyone always did.

She had no interest in either magical armour or weapons. She was skilled (either by dint of training or natural ability) in a wide variety of armaments but her long, strange life had taught her to depend on her own talents. Anything you possessed could be taken away. And that made possessions a vulnerability.

She spent her time carefully walking around the crypt, seeing if there was anything helpful or alarming she could learn. At any point, if she was out of sight, she even climbed the walls and pillars and investigated the ceilings. But she was careful not to be seen.

When everyone seemed ready to move on, she nodded at Zinro.

"Anything the Devil has taken pains to hide is most likely something he does not want anyone to find. I vote the secret way as well."

 
 Spoiler 

Her poking around is just fluff, but if you feel like a Perception or Investigation Check is merited, let me know.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha regards the relics Lord Zinro has just identified.   The armor could be incorporated into the Bionoid,   he says, gesturing at his own armor,   but the effect will be largely the same. If someone else can make use of it, please do.

And I agree we should inspect the secret door. Better to uncover all areas here, so we aren't surprised later.  
 
 
  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert steps over to speak with Rue and encourage her while the magical armor and sword are analyzed.   "I have worked with many priests and priestesses of Pelor.  Some were from stable merchant families; a few were from the nobility; and some came to the priesthood  because we were a source of healing for them.  One acolyte, I'm certain, joined to get away from a life of crime, but he did so earnestly.  It was their faith, and their choices, that defined them.  Not who their parents were.  When we die, our gods judge us not for the actions of our parents, but for the choices we make." 

He chooses to trust in his existing armor and its protection of his vital organs.  Surely someone else could benefit from the enchanted plate.
dangelo
During the twenty minutes the party remained in Sergei's tomb, silence reigned in the Ravenloft. The quietness was only disrupted by a faint clanking of chains being dragged across the catacombs. Just as it started, the sound slowly died out in the distance, as whoever dragged the chains climbed the staircase and left that area of the castle.

Finally, it seemed safe to leave the tomb again. The portcullis had to be lifted and held in place by a strong pair of arms, so the other adventurers could pass through before it was released. It clanked back to its closed position, the iron grating sinking deep into fissures in the floor.

They left Sergei's tomb and turned right, facing west. The stonework around that hidden passageway was made of a different stone than the rest of the castle, denoting it was newer than the other areas of Ravenloft.

 This tunnel is cut into the Pillarstone of Ravenloft itself. Its surface is slick, and its ceiling is barely 6 feet high. A lingering fog limits visibility to a few feet. 
 
 Spoiler 
Herbert:
Initiative:  (1d20-1)[ 19 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+8)[ 16 ] 
Stealth:  (1d20-1)[ 19 ] 

Yikkol
Initiative:  (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] 
Stealth:  (1d20+12)[ 25 ]  or  (1d20+12)[ 23 ]  (Supreme Sneak)

Zinro:
Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Initiative:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Stealth:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Dot's Stealth:  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 

Bori:
Initiative:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 13 ]  (Sentinel Shield)
Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 17 ]  (Sentinel Shield)
Stealth:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 

Rue:
Initiative:  (1d20+3)[ 7 ]  or  (1d20+3)[ 7 ]  (Feral Instinct)
Perception:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Stealth:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 

Asha:
Initiative:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+2)[ 14 ]  (Helm of Awareness)
Perception  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Stealth:  (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  (Heavy Armor/Boots of Elvenkind)
 
dangelo
Yikkol scouted the way ahead, stepping lightly and testing each stone tile before putting hall her weight onto it. Slowly and cautiously, the party advanced through the narrow corridors, trusting only their hearing to guide them in that silvery mist.

There was a loose stone tile halfway down the corridor, and Yikkol spotted it right away. It was an actual trapdoor, designed to open under the weight of any adult person. Beneath it, a vault descended into a gaping chasm, but once the trap was identified, it was easy to avoid.

 The rough-hewn corridor ends at a stone staircase that descends to the south. Flanked by walls of rough masonry and relatively free of dust, these stairs descend before ending at a lonely door. 
 This room is thirty feet square, rising to a twenty-foot-tall flat ceiling. A stone brazier burns fiercely in the center of the room, but its tall white flame produces no heat. The rim of the brazier is carved with seven cup-shaped indentations spaced evenly around the circumference. Within each indentation is a spherical stone, twice the diameter of a human eyeball and made of a colored crystal. No two stones are the same color.

Overhead, a wood-framed hourglass as tall and wide as a dwarf hangs ten feet above the brazier, suspended from the ceiling by thick iron chains. All the sand is stuck in the upper portion of the hourglass, seemingly unable to run down into the bottom. Written in glowing script on the base of the hourglass is a verse in Common.

Two nine-foot-tall iron statues of knights on horseback, poised to charge with swords drawn, stand in deep alcoves facing each other. The brazier sits between them. 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro cautiously approached to read the verse written on the hourglass.   "What purpose does this room serve, hidden as it is?"   He muttered, mostly to himself.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori graciously takes the broken blade from Zinro and outs it in his pack for when he gets a chance to commune with the spirits within. He follows along the misty passage, extremely glad of Yikkol's scouting ability.

Eying the horsemen on either side of the fin chamber suspiciously, Bori and Nethis place themselves to Zinro's left, between him and it.

 If this was a copper dreadful, it would either just be a trap to amuse the maniac who built it or guard the secret to their downfall. Considering what we've seen so far I'm guessing it's the first one.  
dangelo
As Lord Zinro and Bori inspected their surroundings, they actually found several other exits to that room:

To the north, three identical staircases lead up. The party arrived through the middle one.

To the south, an open archway lead into a bigger room, but its contents were hidden by velvet curtains.

 
 
 Spoiler 
Those three doors in the background are the three staircases above mentioned. The party came from the middle one.
 

The inscription read:

  Cast a stone into the fire:

Violet leads to the mountain spire

Orange to the castle's peak

Red if lore is what you seek

Green to where the coffins hide

Indigo to the master's bride

Blue to ancient magic's womb

Yellow to the master's tomb  
However, not all flames were available. Four of them were missing: green, blue, indigo and violet.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert follows Yikkol and the others, keeping his armor from making noise as best as he can.  As he enters the room, his adamantium plate reflects the light of the white flame.

He looks suspiciously at the statues and the hourglass.
1. Is there evidence of the statues having moved more recently? Less dust, disturbed dust, prints, dents in the floor, etc.
2. Is there an obstacle in the middle of the hourglass, or is the sand held back by an invisible force?
3. Any other markings?
4. Any significance in the gem patterns?

 
 Spoiler 

Disadvantage on that stealth check,  (1d20-1)[ 16 ] 
New perception check, if called for  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
Or investigation  (1d20+1)[ 17 ]  if that fits better.
Religion  (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro mused to himself for a moment.   "Perhaps this room is a means of teleportation, scrying, or communion with other locations? Perhaps the hourglass is a means of keeping time on the spell?"  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha moves in with the others and takes stock of the room,   Mind the statues,   he says to the others, gesturing at the towering horsemen flanking the brazier.

Zinro muses to himself for a moment. "Perhaps this room is a means of teleportation, scrying, or communion with other locations? Perhaps the hourglass is a means of keeping time on the spell?"

  At the very least,   Asha says,   it's a waypoint between the three locations that can access it. Secretly, of course.   He moves toward the brazier and reads the inscription on the hourglass:

  Cast a stone into the fire:

Violet leads to the mountain spire

Orange to the castle's peak

Red if lore is what you seek

Green to where the coffins hide

Indigo to the master's bride

Blue to ancient magic's womb

Yellow to the master's tomb  
  What did the old woman say? A brother of light to the brother of shadow. That's Sergei's tomb. We found that treasure, I think. The armor is remarkable, but the sword we don't yet know it's full powers.

The other treasure was in the highest tower, and the other hidden behind a great beauty. So... orange and indigo?   Asha says, looking to the others.
 
 
  
J-H
 Herbert 
 "To have something available is not the same thing as to require its use...although those over-fond of strong drink would disagree.  Let us continue our explorations here, and find what there is to find, before we go off to some other part of the castle.  Who knows if we will be able to return?" 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert steps over to speak with Rue and encourage her while the magical armor and sword are analyzed.   "I have worked with many priests and priestesses of Pelor.  Some were from stable merchant families; a few were from the nobility; and some came to the priesthood  because we were a source of healing for them.  One acolyte, I'm certain, joined to get away from a life of crime, but he did so earnestly.  It was their faith, and their choices, that defined them.  Not who their parents were.  When we die, our gods judge us not for the actions of our parents, but for the choices we make."  
 

Yikkol nods as Herbert speak. "Your words are wise indeed, your holiness. I apologize, Rue. I should not have judged you on your heritage."


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Sergei's suit of armor had seen many battles, and protected him from several killing blows, but none for the land of Barovia. It had been commissioned by King Barov to clad his son's body and keep him safe when protecting their realm, but never to conquer other lands. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha regards the relics Lord Zinro has just identified.   The armor could be incorporated into the Bionoid,   he says, gesturing at his own armor,   but the effect will be largely the same. If someone else can make use of it, please do.   
 

Yikkol Four-Eyes has picked up the armor and is examining it. She reaches inside and fingers the fine chain shirt hidden inside. Mithral. It looked beautiful in the torchlight and glistened with powerful protective magics.

The armor was too heavy for her to her to comfortably wear, but this light chain would be useful. She throws it on underneath her clothes, leaving her studded leather armor in its place. She then allows his holiness to close the coffin before leading the party towards the hidden passageway.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Yikkol scouted the way ahead, stepping lightly and testing each stone tile before putting hall her weight onto it. Slowly and cautiously, the party advanced through the narrow corridors, trusting only their hearing to guide them in that silvery mist.

There was a loose stone tile halfway down the corridor, and Yikkol spotted it right away. It was an actual trapdoor, designed to open under the weight of any adult person. Beneath it, a vault descended into a gaping chasm, but once the trap was identified, it was easy to avoid.

 The rough-hewn corridor ends at a stone staircase that descends to the south. Flanked by walls of rough masonry and relatively free of dust, these stairs descend before ending at a lonely door. 
 This room is thirty feet square, rising to a twenty-foot-tall flat ceiling. A stone brazier burns fiercely in the center of the room, but its tall white flame produces no heat. The rim of the brazier is carved with seven cup-shaped indentations spaced evenly around the circumference. Within each indentation is a spherical stone, twice the diameter of a human eyeball and made of a colored crystal. No two stones are the same color.

Overhead, a wood-framed hourglass as tall and wide as a dwarf hangs ten feet above the brazier, suspended from the ceiling by thick iron chains. All the sand is stuck in the upper portion of the hourglass, seemingly unable to run down into the bottom. Written in glowing script on the base of the hourglass is a verse in Common.

Two nine-foot-tall iron statues of knights on horseback, poised to charge with swords drawn, stand in deep alcoves facing each other. The brazier sits between them.  
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 As Lord Zinro and Bori inspected their surroundings, they actually found several other exits to that room:

To the north, three identical staircases lead up. The party arrived through the middle one.

To the south, an open archway lead into a bigger room, but its contents were hidden by velvet curtains.

 
 
 Spoiler 
Those three doors in the background are the three staircases above mentioned. The party came from the middle one.
 

The inscription read:

  Cast a stone into the fire:

Violet leads to the mountain spire

Orange to the castle's peak

Red if lore is what you seek

Green to where the coffins hide

Indigo to the master's bride

Blue to ancient magic's womb

Yellow to the master's tomb  
However, not all flames were available. Four of them were missing: green, blue, indigo and violet. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro mused to himself for a moment.   "Perhaps this room is a means of teleportation, scrying, or communion with other locations? Perhaps the hourglass is a means of keeping time on the spell?"   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   At the very least,   Asha says,   it's a waypoint between the three locations that can access it. Secretly, of course.   He moves toward the brazier and reads the inscription on the hourglass:

  What did the old woman say? A brother of light to the brother of shadow. That's Sergei's tomb. We found that treasure, I think. The armor is remarkable, but the sword we don't yet know it's full powers.

The other treasure was in the highest tower, and the other hidden behind a great beauty. So... orange and indigo?   Asha says, looking to the others. 
 

"The indigo is missing," Yikkol says. With her chin, she gestures at the missing orb.

"But this magic item seems risky. What does it do? If it teleports people, will it only teleport the person who tossed the stone, or will it teleport everyone in the room?"


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "To have something available is not the same thing as to require its use...although those over-fond of strong drink would disagree.  Let us continue our explorations here, and find what there is to find, before we go off to some other part of the castle.  Who knows if we will be able to return?"  
 

"A wise suggestion, your holiness. There's a part of the room obscured with curtains. Zinro, what do your magic senses say? Is there an  alarm  on it?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Zinro, what do your magic senses say? Is there an  alarm  on it?" 
 

  "If you give me ten minutes I can open my senses to magical auras once again."   As soon as he finished speaking, Zinro was already muttering the incantations to raise his awareness to all things magical.

 
 Spoiler 
Ritual Cast Detect Magic and then sweep the room with it
 
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 He looks suspiciously at the statues and the hourglass.
1. Is there evidence of the statues having moved more recently? Less dust, disturbed dust, prints, dents in the floor, etc.
2. Is there an obstacle in the middle of the hourglass, or is the sand held back by an invisible force?
3. Any other markings?
4. Any significance in the gem patterns? 
 

When inspecting the stone floor up close, Herbert found signs that the statues had indeed moved in the past, but not recently. There were marks on the floor, but the statues themselves were coated with dust.

In the hourglass overhead, the sand was magically kept from falling. There was nothing physically blocking its path

Besides that, nothing seemed out of the ordinary.


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "If you give me ten minutes I can open my senses to magical auras once again."   As soon as he finished speaking, Zinro was already muttering the incantations to raise his awareness to all things magical. 
 

Somewhere around Castle Ravenloft, a flutter of bats chirped and squeaked wildly. The sound reached the adventurers in the Brazier Room, muffled by several layers of stone walls. While the creatures themselves were far away and couldn't harm them, they were an awful reminder of how this castle was alive and full of horrors.

Surprisingly, there was little for Lord Zinro to detect. The brazier was indeed a teleportation device: once the stone was thrown into the flame, a portal would be opened. Judging by the structure of the spell and the laws of arcane magic, it was probable that the portal would remain open for a small window of time before closing again. There were very recent traces of magic that indicated it was frequently used by someone to get around the castle.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 
 
 
  

Asha moves to the brazier and looks into the flame to see if he can make out the stones that are missing from the rim.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  


Reluctant to move away from marking one of the ominous statues, Bori stays still until Herbert and Zinro finish their examinations. He edge's over towards the curtain and triesnto peer through.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Stealth  (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 

Perception  (1d20+5)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro completed his magical investigations and nodded to himself.   "As I suspected: this is a teleportation device. Throw in a stone and it connects with the appropriate location mentioned by the Hourglass. I imagine the Hourglass is simply a timer for how long the portal remains open."   He looked at the statues.   "I don't sense any magic from the knights; although if there's some kind of mechanical trigger to them then I wouldn't perceive that."  
  "I think we should remember this room, but continue exploring at this level for now."  
dangelo
 Dark, low shapes thrust up out of the still, brackish water that fills this fifty-foot-square room, the ceiling of which is festooned with hanging chains that look like thick, black web strands. A balcony set into the north wall overlooks the room and has two large thrones atop it, with a red velvet curtain behind them. 
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori's eyes widen as he looks around the incredibly creepy room. He seeks out with his Mask Weaver training to get a feel for the spirits of the objects and any creatures inside the room. Looking for the hidden taint of undeath.

Done, he scuttles back to report his findings.

 It is just so creepy. I main, what could you possibly watch in their? Were they drowning people for their own amusement or something? 
 
 Spoiler: Action 
Divine Sense - 3 uses remaining.
 
dangelo
While darkness shrouded the vision of men and wrapped their hearts in fear, Bori's spirit was beyond such influences. He faced the darkness with the courage of a champion and had evil reveal itself to him. The dark, low shapes on the water were creatures of the night, lost undead who would never again see the light of day. They just stood in the water, waiting, waiting...

 
 Spoiler: ooc 
Awesome artwork straight from the book:
 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Somewhere around Castle Ravenloft, a flutter of bats chirped and squeaked wildly. The sound reached the adventurers in the Brazier Room, muffled by several layers of stone walls. While the creatures themselves were far away and couldn't harm them, they were an awful reminder of how this castle was alive and full of horrors. 
 

Yikkol shivers, though she stills herself by thinking of Strahd's death and her mother's bones.

"What an awful reminder," Yikkol mutters to herself, "of how this castle is alive and full of horrors."


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Bori's eyes widen as he looks around the incredibly creepy room. He seeks out with his Mask Weaver training to get a feel for the spirits of the objects and any creatures inside the room. Looking for the hidden taint of undeath.

Done, he scuttles back to report his findings.

 It is just so creepy. I main, what could you possibly watch in their? Were they drowning people for their own amusement or something?  
 

"Maybe it was an old throne room," Yikkol suggests, "and Strahd put it in a dark corner to forget that he was once a prince."


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro completed his magical investigations and nodded to himself.   "As I suspected: this is a teleportation device. Throw in a stone and it connects with the appropriate location mentioned by the Hourglass. I imagine the Hourglass is simply a timer for how long the portal remains open."   He looked at the statues.   "I don't sense any magic from the knights; although if there's some kind of mechanical trigger to them then I wouldn't perceive that."  
  "I think we should remember this room, but continue exploring at this level for now."   
 

"That's a good idea. Should we take the orbs just in case? Some have been used already."

Also: "Left door or right door?"
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 It looks like the water is full of undead as well, definitely don't recommend going in there!
 
He happily joins the others in consideration of the remaining doorways.

 I'm happy with either direction. In the mean time, if we want to lay a minor trap for anything these statues can get up to, I can pour a quart of oil on the floor. It might slow it down a bit if it starts moving. 
dangelo
The party had entered the castle from the west, and moved eastward until they found the Chapel; The Catacombs were located directly below the Chapel, deep underground. From there, a nondescript corridor cut into the bedrock of Ravenloft and led them to the Brazier Room. Following that logic, one could assume that the right door should lead deeper into the castle, while the left would do the opposite.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  In the mean time, if we want to lay a minor trap for anything these statues can get up to, I can pour a quart of oil on the floor. It might slow it down a bit if it starts moving.  
 

"Good idea. I've got this bag full of little balls that might trip them up."

Yikkol steps closer to Bori and lets his aura sweep away his remaining fear. What a presence! She pours the bag of ball bearing around the statue, standing closer to the halfling than strictly necessary.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The party had entered the castle from the west, and moved eastward until they found the Chapel; The Catacombs were located directly below the Chapel, deep underground. From there, a nondescript corridor cut into the bedrock of Ravenloft and led them to the Brazier Room. Following that logic, one could assume that the right door should lead deeper into the castle, while the left would do the opposite. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  I'm happy with either direction.  
 

"Let's go to the left," Yikkol suggests. "It seems to lead to the castle walls. We may find some more secrets there."
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (Long Rest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  
Rue frowns and considers. She was not a very imaginative creature, but to the extend that she had pictured this mad errand, she had pictured more of a single headlong rush directly at Strahd without pause or rest until one of them was destroyed.

All this exploration felt... academic to her. Like fiddling while the city burned.

"I believe the only purpose of exploring is to find the treasures of which the Vistani spoke? Do we think our sword is  the  sword. And if so, should we not begin climbing as soon as we are able?

Pause.

"Or do we suppose the treasure hidden behind the beautiful woman is down here somewhere as well?"

A longer pause. Another frown.

"Whichever, I will bow to the will of the party. If Yikkol wishes left, then let it be left."

 
 Spoiler 

Nil
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "I believe the only purpose of exploring is to find the treasures of which the Vistani spoke? Do we think our sword is  the  sword. And if so, should we not begin climbing as soon as we are able? 
 

  "I'm not sure about you, but I'd like this castle cleared of threats before we face down it's master. We wouldn't want, for example, Strahd to call his children to his side whilst we fight him; if at all possible. Besides, we have already found treasures that are extremely useful to us that were not strictly mentioned by the Seer. I'm sure there will be many such treasures that will aid us further."  

He took a moment to Prestidigitate his clothes clean again.

  "I also agree with heading left."  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 
 
 
  

Asha gives his opinion, but otherwise follows the others,   I think it's better to have discreet and tangible missions. We know one treasure is in the tower, and we know how to get there. The other is a little more obscure, but presumably, had we the stone, we could get there too.

Clearing out the castle is a more open objective. We have to take care that we know what the end of that objective looks like, so we don't find ourselves wandering these passages for far longer than we care to.  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Rue frowns and considers. She was not a very imaginative creature, but to the extend that she had pictured this mad errand, she had pictured more of a single headlong rush directly at Strahd without pause or rest until one of them was destroyed.

All this exploration felt... academic to her. Like fiddling while the city burned.

"I believe the only purpose of exploring is to find the treasures of which the Vistani spoke? Do we think our sword is  the  sword. And if so, should we not begin climbing as soon as we are able?

Pause.

"Or do we suppose the treasure hidden behind the beautiful woman is down here somewhere as well?"

A longer pause. Another frown.

"Whichever, I will bow to the will of the party. If Yikkol wishes left, then let it be left." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "I'm not sure about you, but I'd like this castle cleared of threats before we face down it's master. We wouldn't want, for example, Strahd to call his children to his side whilst we fight him; if at all possible. Besides, we have already found treasures that are extremely useful to us that were not strictly mentioned by the Seer. I'm sure there will be many such treasures that will aid us further."  

He took a moment to Prestidigitate his clothes clean again.

  "I also agree with heading left."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha gives his opinion, but otherwise follows the others,   I think it's better to have discreet and tangible missions. We know one treasure is in the tower, and we know how to get there. The other is a little more obscure, but presumably, had we the stone, we could get there too.

Clearing out the castle is a more open objective. We have to take care that we know what the end of that objective looks like, so we don't find ourselves wandering these passages for far longer than we care to.   
 

Yikkol gapes at the dissenting party members.

"Are you...  disagreeing  with his holiness?" She speaks slowly, emphasizing the third word. "Father Herbert said to explore the place. Surely you don't mean to resist his will. In my country, opposing a priest gets you hanged, drawn, and quartered."

She stares nervously at Herbert. "Very sorry, your holiness. I'm sure it's just their stress. You know best. Where do we go?"
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha pauses, and then looks toward Yikkol and Herbert. Until now, he thought them companions, given her deference to him.   What country would that be, Yikkol?  
J-H
 Herbert 
Herbert looks at Yikkol with a strange expression on his face.   "That's.... not how it works in most civilized countries.  The gods don't reveal everything to us, and of course there are multiple gods.  You'll find priests disagreeing with priests of other gods quite regularly about how to solve problems." 
dangelo
This staircase of ancient stone was worn smooth. Thick dust covered its steps, and cobwebs choked the passage. A sickly mist filled the stairway ahead, then coalesced into the form of the vampire Strahd himself, his eyes burning red with anger.

"You have worn out your welcome," he said. "Whatever gods you believe in cannot save you now!"

 
 Spoiler 
Herbert:
Initiative:  (1d20-1)[ 2 ] 

Yikkol
Initiative:  (1d20+4)[ 23 ] 

Zinro:
Initiative:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 

Bori:
Initiative:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 7 ]  (Sentinel Shield)

Rue:
Initiative:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+3)[ 15 ]  (Feral Instinct)

Asha:
Initiative:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+2)[ 12 ]  (Helm of Awareness
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (Rue, Asha, Yikkol, Bori) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Disregarding Strahd's weak attempt at shaking his faith, Herbert calls upon the power of Pelor to guide his allies' strikes.   "Did King Barov von Zarovich and Queen Ravenovia van Roeyen raise you to so flippantly dismiss the gods?  Surely not, although judging by the poverty of the Barovians, if you were taught how to rule the land and care for its people you abandoned that teaching as well." 
 
 Spoiler 

Bless on Rue, Asha, Yikkol, Bori, 2nd level spell slot
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha pauses, and then looks toward Yikkol and Herbert. Until now, he thought them companions, given her deference to him.   What country would that be, Yikkol?   
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert looks at Yikkol with a strange expression on his face.   "That's.... not how it works in most civilized countries.  The gods don't reveal everything to us, and of course there are multiple gods.  You'll find priests disagreeing with priests of other gods quite regularly about how to solve problems."  
 

Yikkol begins to speak as they head through the left door. But her words quickly die on her lips. Strahd was here.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 This staircase of ancient stone was worn smooth. Thick dust covered its steps, and cobwebs choked the passage. A sickly mist filled the stairway ahead, then coalesced into the form of the vampire Strahd himself, his eyes burning red with anger.

"You have worn out your welcome," he said. "Whatever gods you believe in cannot save you now!" 
 

Yikkol aims her crossbow at his heart and fires.

 
 Attack with Steady Aim &amp;  Bless :  (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 24 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 1 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 10 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 18 ]  magical piercing. 
 
“Strahd, you slime mold! Tell me where my mother’s bones are now!”
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 In my country, opposing a priest gets you hanged, drawn, and quartered." 
 

Zinro couldn't help but think of his sister when Yikkol said this. As House Priestess of Lolth, she'd enjoyed the power to be able to condemn anyone suspected of blasphemy against their god to any number of horrible fates beyond a simple hanging. A particular favourite was having spiderling eggs implanted inside a victim, and allowing them to eat their way out when they began to mature. He had been forced, on more than one occasion, to agree with his sister even when it was against his ideals or interests. He shuddered thinking about it.


 


As Strahd appeared and challenged them, Zinro moved to put as much distance as possible between himself and the vampire count; whilst keeping within the area of safety generated by the Icon of Ravenloft, should it become active.

He then lobbed a bolt of fire towards the count.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Action as described.
Main Action to cast Fire Bolt Cantrip, Ranged Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 13 ]  Fire Damage
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol gets a very lucky shot. She rerolls her damage dice and adds them to her damage:

Initial damage plus  (1d10)[ 2 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 18 ]  is… a total of 48 magical piercing damage. 😱
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha thinks to himself he had the wrong read on the count. He would not have expected to be attacked like this. The thought happens in less than an instant, and the soldier bolts forward to get between Strahd and the others and throws two punches at the vampire.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Move   - Move adjacent to Strahd
  Action   - Attack Strahd
Thunder Gauntlets -  (1d20+11)[ 12 ]  +  (1d4)[ 4 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
Thunder Gauntlets -  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 11 ] 
  Hit Effect   - Strahd has Disadvantage to hit anyone other than Asha.
  Move   - Position to make sure Rue can attack Strahd.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Nethis leaps, snarling, to land behind the monster.

 Your brother defies you still!   Yells Bori, slashing with the broken blade.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Attack 1
 (1d20+11)[ 12 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 3 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
Halfling luck, attack re-rolled to 30

Attack 2
 (1d20+11)[ 21 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 1 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 

Adding a level 1 Smite to an attack that hits, prioritising a crit for  (3d8)[ 9 ]  radiant damage
 
dangelo
For a moment, it seemed like their Crusade would see a premature end. Strahd was cornered in a tight spot, swarmed by the adventurers who now grew into real shield brothers rather than simply circumstantial allies. Fire bolts, crossbow bolts, sword strikes, lightning punches and fangs and claws found their way into the vampire's flesh, blessed by the light of Pelor. The count collapsed under such might, but his body simply burst in a cloud of bats and disappeared in thin air.

The illusion was over. Strahd had never actually been here, but his laughter echoed louder and louder as dozens of bats fluttered away through the corridor.

With time, Strahd's laughter died in the distance and the staircase fell silent again.

(Combat over!)
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro cursed silently to himself. An illusion! How had  he  of all people fallen for such a cheap trick? He'd had to deal with all kinds of illusion pranks back in Menzoberranzan, and considered himself somewhat decent at seeing through them. Perhaps Strahd's unnatural power helped to make the illusion to seem more real than it was supposed to be? If so, that made the count an even more formidable foe.

  "It would appear that the dear count has a grasp of magic. This does not bode well for us. However, I can attempt to Dispel and Counter any magical tools he tries to use against us. I'll admit this illusion had me fooled too."  

Zinro moved back into step with the party.
TaiLiu
Yikkol screams in rage and impotence. He was there, and then he wasn't. Her lucky shot meant nothing.

Fates take that bloodsucker! Fates take this castle! She takes a deep breath and calms herself.

"Come on," she says. "Let's go. I'm sure we'll have to deal with more of his tricks."

She mutters under her breath as she continues up the stairs.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori pulls down his mask angrily.  Dragon Below, a dirty trick! I feel so stupid, I didn't even think to ask the spirits if he was real. We'll have to be more cautious next time!
 
Nethis strikes at the floor with a claw before simping further up the stairs.
dangelo
The staircase climbed further and further into the darkness, until it made a sharp turn to the right and ended in a small landing facing a flat, wooden wall. Upon closer inspection, the wooden wall revealed to be actually the back of a huge wardrobe or bookshelf, too massive to be pushed out of the way.

On the wall besides the "wooden wall", a heavy lever could be pulled up and down. It was currently in the "up" position.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

If their surroundings were less horrifying, Bori might have felt a thrill at opening a secret passage like a copper dreadful hero. As it was, he merely hoped that whatever greeted them was less horrifying that that sunken room below.

He looks nervously at his fellows and mouths   Three...Two...One  ... before firmly pulling on thr lever.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 If their surroundings were less horrifying, Bori might have felt a thrill at opening a secret passage like a copper dreadful hero. As it was, he merely hoped that whatever greeted them was less horrifying that that sunken room below.

He looks nervously at his fellows and mouths   Three...Two...One  ... before firmly pulling on thr lever. 
 

Yikkol gives Bori a thumbs up as he does so.
dangelo
The wardrobe was pushed to the side by a loud, clanking mechanism, revealing a small candlelit office.

 This shadowy room is in perfect order. A great table stands here with its chair, inkwell, and quill set carefully in place. Lances, swords, and shields that bear the Barovian crest are hung neatly on the dark, oak-paneled walls. 

A gaunt man was standing in the center of the room, his attention focused on the great table in front of him. Besides the neatly arranged papers and documents, a full alchemy set had been assembled for experiments, complete with test tubes of different sizes, beaker frames, mortar and pestle and a tiny magic flame that hovered in the air beneath a round-bottom flask, boiling some bright green substance and filling the room with a thin layer of purple smoke. The office had no windows, but the smoke seemed to magically vanish before it would fog the room.

The man removed his protective goggles, revealing his long black hair and pointed ears. His face was long, with pointy cheek bones and and a narrow  complexion. His hair was deep black, and greased into a loose ponytail.

"That is incredibly rude." Said the elf, placing the goggles back on the table. "What gives you the right to break into my office and mess with my personal belongings?"

The elf shook his head disapprovingly. "Now please have some manners and cut the lights." His pale grey eyes could barely remain open under the bright light from Herbert's shield. "I certainly expected more finesse from you all, after that little stunt in the Dining Hall."

[Intelligence (Nature) DC 16 to identify what the elf is brewing]
TaiLiu
An alchemist? A living alchemist? Here, in a secret room in Strahd's domain?

Yikkol stares at the man, then at the party, then at the boiling green substance, then at the man again.

 
 DC 16 Nature check:  (1d20+1)[ 5 ] . 
 
"Friend or foe? Do you work for Strahd? And how could you possibly know what went on in the dining room from here?"
dangelo
The elf sighed. With a brief gesture, he dismissed the tiny flame and the green substance stopped boiling. "You are supposed to introduce yourself before asking someone questions." He clenched his jaw. " Specially  after barging into his chambers like armed ruffians."

After a moment of silence, the elf relaxed. "Although I understand you would be in a hurry to return to those you abandoned, Yikkol 'Four-Eyes'."
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori looks dumbfounded for a second before recovering a d trying to put on a jovial air.

 We're so sorry, we didn't mean to interrupt. We're just a little on.edge, I hope that's understandable? I'm Bori, but it seems you already know that. What's your name? Can we help you with anything? 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Finding exceptional rooms hidden behind secret doors seemed to be becoming a theme in this castle; Zinro would enjoy exploring it more fully once Strahd was out of the way.

He eyed the Elf suspiciously, searching for signs of imprisonment here.

 
 Spoiler 
Perception check to spot any chains or any other form of restraint that denotes this guy is a prisoner here:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
Or Investigation if that's more appropriate:  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
 


He then turned his attention to the alchemical brew.

 
 Spoiler 
Nature check:  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
 

  "Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan."   Zinro replied in his usual said-a-million-times fashion.   "How do you know the others? Are you spying on us? To what end?"  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha nearly crashes into the stairs as his punch flies right through an illusion, but the trained soldier recovers neatly and jogs a few steps upward. He quickly turns to see the end of the image discorporating, but the laughter remains a little longer still.

His hands curl into fists and he feels shame for having fallen for the ruse. However, he realizes his read on the count may still be accurate. The count is still wanting to play the game, and not ending things short.

He follows the others up the stairs. He thinks it unwise to pull the lever, but says nothing as Bori does the deed. A secret door is revealed, and an elf with a severe countenance is inside, performing alchemy at a grand table. Asha stands aside, watching and listening as events unfold.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The elf sighed. With a brief gesture, he dismissed the tiny flame and the green substance stopped boiling. "You are supposed to introduce yourself before asking someone questions." He clenched his jaw. " Specially  after barging into his chambers like armed ruffians."

After a moment of silence, the elf relaxed. "Although I understand you would be in a hurry to return to those you abandoned, Yikkol 'Four-Eyes'." 
 

Yikkol's eyes flash with anger. Her fist tightens around her crossbow. Only the presence of Bori and his calming aura stop her from slaughtering the elf.

"You don't know me," she says. There is a murderous chill in her voice. "You've no right to judge the sacrifices I've made to find her bones."
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "Herbert Raycraft, servant of Pelor.  Who are you, that you choose a place such as this to conduct your...research...alchemy?" 
 
 Spoiler: checks 

Herbert pointedly does not alter the bright light from his shield.
nature to ID  (1d20)[ 2 ] 
Is he elf or undead? Religion  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Insight +8 (I assume DM would prefer to roll privately) to determine how truthful he's being.
 
dangelo
The elf bowed so low that his ponytail grazed against the stone floor. "I am Rahadin from the Dusk Forest, First General under Lord Strahd. Some have refered to my people as  Dusk Elves , but I prefer the term  Naëradrín ."

As Herbert could now see more clearly, the elf breathed and moved with the natural mojo that only a living creature could have. The office itself was rather cozy and did not feel like a prison at all. In fact, Rahadin had access to the Brazier Room just outside his office, and seemed to use that secret passage often to get around the castle.

"Spying, Lord Zinro Varanash of Menzoberranzan? You come into  my  home and call  me  a spy? Was I supposed to sit and wait while scoundrels and ruffians put their little fingers in my lord's treasures?"

"I will give you one more chance to be civilized." He insisted to Herbert, who carried the glowing shield. "Cut the lights  now ."

 
 Spoiler: Nature DC 16 
Rahadin is preparing a special toxin that can be applied to small projectiles like darts or throwing daggers. When injected into the blood current, usually through and open wound (though ingestion should also work), it causes extreme pain on Medium and Small creatures, and paralysis on Tiny or smaller.
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (Long Rest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Rue followed her companions, mostly in silence. When "Strahd" had attacked them in the passageway she was so terrified to see him, so afraid she would be destroyed in that cramped hallway, that she had done nothing while the others fought.

There was a even a moment, before the illusion was revealed, when she considered betraying her party if it meant she would be spared.

Shame filled her now. Shame and guilt. What did it say about her that she would abandon a centuries-long quest and consider betraying the only people who had accepted her in as long as she could remember, over a moment's fear?

She was finding it difficult to process.

And now this.

She had no idea what this twisted grey little man was doing down here, why he would choose to live and work in such a place, but he served the Devil. And that was enough for her.

She snaked forward to stand in front of the others, her face twisted into a snarl of rage beneath her hood.

"I recognize you. Do you recognize me? Or has your time spent in the dark atrophied your wits along with your soul?"

She spat on the ground. Well, she made a spitting sound and motion. Her unliving body didn't actually generate saliva.

"Civilized? What does civilized mean to anyone who licks the boots of the the Devil? Better a scoundrel or a ruffian than a filthy, spineless, slave."

 
 Spoiler 

Nil
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "Spying, Lord Zinro Varanash of Menzoberranzan? You come into  my  home and call  me  a spy? Was I supposed to sit and wait while scoundrels and ruffians put their little fingers in my lord's treasures?" 
 

  "But, much like the Count, you seem to know us before we had even arrived. I doubt the Count ventures much outside his realm given his... affliction... so I imagine it must fall to you to do the bulk of his spying? And do you think we were supposed to sit and wait to be devoured by your master or his children? Of course not."   Zinro countered.

He considered the situation for a moment and then said:   "You knew we were coming. And I would not be so rude as to presume you stupid, cousin elf. Therefore, you must have something planned for our encounter here: a failsafe to prevent us simply bull-rushing you together and eliminating you. We have already seen your master is capable of illusion; so I would imagine you have hidden talents that would allow you to survive a hostile encounter with us here. I'm sure the toxin you're currently brewing is only your latest alchemical concoction."   Zinro made a point to say the last point very clearly, so that the others - who may not have been so educated on such matters - could understand what was being made here.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: -- 
 
 
  

Asha steps forward, his hands up trying to placate all involved,   No need to leap to hostilities just yet, no one has done anything.   He gestures to Herbert to extinguish the light,   If Rahadin wanted to ambush us, he had every opportunity to do so, having timing, location, and information on his side.

So let's hear what he has to say, and then we can speak as well.
  
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Almost lost in her anger, Rue's head snapped back to Asha, viper-quick, as he spoke of patience and listening. She was not as convinced of Rahadin's motives (or tactics) as was the elf. But she had to admit she was generally not very skilled at either.

She returned her dead, hungry gaze to the alchemist and snarled. She would wait. She would listen. But she was at the farthest, raggedy edge of her limited self-control.

It wouldn't take much to set her off.

 
 Spoiler 

Nil
 
J-H
Herbert reluctantly turns his shield to the side, so that the light shines on the wall of the passage the group came down, rather than directly into the eyes of the poison-brewing servant of an undead tyrant.
Waistcoatwill
 Bori 

Bori almost recoils as Zinro mentions poison. He barely keeps himself from sweeping the contents of the desk onto the ground.

 For starters, please explain how you have any claim to be "  civilised  " if you're making poison? 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 She snaked forward to stand in front of the others, her face twisted into a snarl of rage beneath her hood.

"I recognize you. Do you recognize me? Or has your time spent in the dark atrophied your wits along with your soul?"

She spat on the ground. Well, she made a spitting sound and motion. Her unliving body didn't actually generate saliva.

"Civilized? What does civilized mean to anyone who licks the boots of the the Devil? Better a scoundrel or a ruffian than a filthy, spineless, slave." 
 

A kernel of respect for Rue begins to grow in Yikkol's mind. She hated this man and how he brought her insecurities to light. Her enemy's enemy was her friend.
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "I recognize you. Do you recognize me? Or has your time spent in the dark atrophied your wits along with your soul?"

She spat on the ground. Well, she made a spitting sound and motion. Her unliving body didn't actually generate saliva.

"Civilized? What does civilized mean to anyone who licks the boots of the the Devil? Better a scoundrel or a ruffian than a filthy, spineless, slave." 
 

"Licking boots? The respect a soldier has for his commander is something I don't expect you to understand,  creature . Unlike you scum, I have come into your father's service by choice."


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "But, much like the Count, you seem to know us before we had even arrived. I doubt the Count ventures much outside his realm given his... affliction... so I imagine it must fall to you to do the bulk of his spying? And do you think we were supposed to sit and wait to be devoured by your master or his children? Of course not."   Zinro countered.

He considered the situation for a moment and then said:   "You knew we were coming. And I would not be so rude as to presume you stupid, cousin elf. Therefore, you must have something planned for our encounter here: a failsafe to prevent us simply bull-rushing you together and eliminating you. We have already seen your master is capable of illusion; so I would imagine you have hidden talents that would allow you to survive a hostile encounter with us here. I'm sure the toxin you're currently brewing is only your latest alchemical concoction."   Zinro made a point to say the last point very clearly, so that the others - who may not have been so educated on such matters - could understand what was being made here. 
 

"You think too little of me, night elf. I would have found that offensive, had I ever expected much from your little fellowship. I thought you would come to me, yes, but through the front door of my office, not bursting out of my wardrobe or smallclothes."

"I don't need a failsafe:  This castle  is my failsafe. Even now, I could cut through the six of you with ease. Have you got any idea of how many people I have killed in the name of Lord Strahd?"


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha steps forward, his hands up trying to placate all involved,   No need to leap to hostilities just yet, no one has done anything.   He gestures to Herbert to extinguish the light,   If Rahadin wanted to ambush us, he had every opportunity to do so, having timing, location, and information on his side.

So let's hear what he has to say, and then we can speak as well.
   
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert reluctantly turns his shield to the side, so that the light shines on the wall of the passage the group came down, rather than directly into the eyes of the poison-brewing servant of an undead tyrant. 
 

"Now that I can finally  see  properly... Well, Lord Strahd has many children. You can't expect me to make out one rat face from another." A spark of interest crossed his eyes as his eyes scanned the features of Rue's face. "But you are no Lesser Vampire, are you? You're no vampire at all.  This  is interesting."

"Yes... I remember her face." Rahadin scratched his chin, searching his memories. "Watching my Lord obsessed with some peasant girl was tough, but I knew every great man has a great weakness. Perfection cannot be achieved. In a way... I admire how much of a heart Lord Strahd has."

"She had curly locks of auburn hair, and eyes that pierced the soul. A beautiful young woman, one of the last remaining souls in the village... I wonder why was it that he never  turned  her..."


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  For starters, please explain how you have any claim to be "  civilised  " if you're making poison?  
 

"Poison is a weapon, just like any blade or spell. My methods bring results, and that's above any ideal of chivalry you fools might have."
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
"You think too little of me, night elf. I would have found that offensive, had I ever expected much from your little fellowship. I thought you would come to me, yes, but through the front door of my office, not bursting out of my wardrobe or smallclothes."

"I don't need a failsafe: This castle is my failsafe. Even now, I could cut through the six of you with ease. Have you got any idea of how many people I have killed in the name of Lord Strahd?"

Asha thinks to the legions of scro that he killed, the witchlight marauders that he massacred, the vodoni enforcers he put down. Hundreds or thousands of enemies, over centuries, across the worlds and spheres of the star ocean.

  Your attention to civility and decorum is undermined by your arrogance. Do not take our willingness to have a conversation as evidence of weakness or vulnerability.

You say you were expecting us, what do you stand to gain by treating with us, and what can we gain from you? This is a game to your master, to have us trapped in this place, and in his castle. What role do you play in this game?  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "I don't need a failsafe:  This castle  is my failsafe. Even now, I could cut through the six of you with ease. Have you got any idea of how many people I have killed in the name of Lord Strahd?" 
 

Was he her mother’s killer? Yikkol had to find out.

“Have you killed anyone from the Architect’s Guild? Where are their bones?”
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro sensed an opportunity, even if it was fleeting.

  "Your loyalty to your master is admirable. Do you follow him simply for his strength? After we defeat him I intend to take this castle for myself. Perhaps you will serve me, when that time comes? I would have need of loyal subjects."  
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   Your attention to civility and decorum is undermined by your arrogance. Do not take our willingness to have a conversation as evidence of weakness or vulnerability.

You say you were expecting us, what do you stand to gain by treating with us, and what can we gain from you? This is a game to your master, to have us trapped in this place, and in his castle. What role do you play in this game?   
 

"Again, you are mistaken. I don't treat with you to  gain  anything, I do so out of courtesy and manners. There's no 'game' the be played. You can either give up your crusade and surrender your lives to Lord Strahd, or die by my hand. In the end, I'm sure you will make the right choice."


 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Was he her mother’s killer? Yikkol had to find out.

“Have you killed anyone from the Architect’s Guild? Where are their bones?” 
 

"Bones?" Rahadin chortled, amused at Yikkol's words. "Those who mean harm to my master deserve no burial. Most likely I just fed them to the dogs. Who would know? Have you kept the bones of every little insect you crush?"


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Your loyalty to your master is admirable. Do you follow him simply for his strength? After we defeat him I intend to take this castle for myself. Perhaps you will serve me, when that time comes? I would have need of loyal subjects."   
 

"You take my master for some mortal ruler you can just take castles from? Ravenloft is part of Lord Strahd, named after the great Queen Ravenovia. I will die before I see a night elf sitting on the throne."
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 So you're basically saying you do whatever you want as ling as you can keep on top and feel superior to others? This "civility" act is pure three-horn spore and just another weapon to use against people. 

He keeps his eyes firmly on the general as speaks tonthe others.  Haven't we heard enough? 

He replaces his mask, which snarls at the elf, draws his blade.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Although the others can't see it underneath his armor, Asha closes his eyes at Yikkol's accusations. But when Lord Zinro admits he intends to take the castle from Strahd, the bionoid can't help but turn to regard the dark elf. But Rahadin speaks again before they can unpack that, "Again, you are mistaken. I don't treat with you to gain anything, I do so out of courtesy and manners. There's no 'game' the be played. You can either give up your crusade and surrender your lives to Lord Strahd, or die by my hand. In the end, I'm sure you will make the right choice."

Asha's hands curl up into armored fists,   Well, that's about the easiest choice we've had to make all night...  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "Bones?" Rahadin chortled, amused at Yikkol's words. "Those who mean harm to my master deserve no burial. Most likely I just fed them to the dogs. Who would know? Have you kept the bones of every little insect you crush?" 
 

"Harm? They were here to improve the castle. You and your monstrous master killed them!"

In anger, she pulls up her crossbow and tries to shoot Rahadin.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The lithe fastieth leaps the desk, placing her and the halfling warrior on the opposite side of the general to their comrades.

Strahd may rule here but the soul of the plane endures on deep down. See what the spirits think of you!

Teaching out to desk and stone for aid, Bori lashes out.at the general. Every aspect of the general's surrounding seems to try to impede him.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move round to opposite side from the rest of the group, staying out of range until the last moment.

Bonus action level 1 ensnaring strike - concentration 1 minute.
If an attack hits then they must take a DC 16 strength save or be restrained (1d6 damage at start of turn, action to make a Strength  check  to break free).

Attack 1
 (1d20+11)[ 20 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 13 ]  Magical slashing
Attack 2
 (1d20+11)[ 26 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro couldn't help but feel a little bit disappointed at this outcome. Rahadin could have been someone useful to have around. But it was clear that the Elf's long life spent in servitude to Strahd had made that bond practically unbreakable.

As Bori and the others lashed out with weapons, Zinro decided to use something a little more subtle. He intoned magical words and an wispy hand suddenly appeared in front of him. He directed the hand to snatch up the flask of toxin that was brewing. He waited for the perfect opportunity, and then attempted to pour the toxin over Rahadin's wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
(Zinro would prefer all the other players to go before him, so if he needs to adjust his move I'm happy to do that)
Move Action to move into the office proper.
Main Action to cast Mage Hand.
Mage Hand will move and pick up the flask of toxin that is brewing.
If Rahadin is damaged and has wounds, Mage Hand will dump the toxin on him. If he is not damaged, keep the flask held high (out of easy physical reach, if possible).
I believe you wanted, essentially, a spell attack roll (Intelligence + Proficiency) contested by his Dex (Acrobatics). If so, Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  vs  (1d20)[ 11 ] +modifiers
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Since he doesn't like it, Herbert summons some of Pelor's holy flame to burn this foe.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred Flame, Dex DC 16 or take  (3d8)[ 10 ]  radiant damage.
 
TaiLiu
Pew pew!

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 9 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 20 ]  magical piercing. 
 
EDIT: Probably a miss. 😛
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha rushes in, hammering Rahadin with his fists.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 

  Move   - Move behind Rahadin
  Action   - Attack Rahadin w/ Thundering Gauntlets (will include potential Advantage depending on whether Rahadin is RESTRAINED or not from Ensnaring Strike)
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 12 ]  Potential Advantage roll  (1d20+11)[ 25 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
Extra Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 27 ]  Potential Advantage roll  (1d20+11)[ 23 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
  Hit Effect   - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 3/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Rue had been at the edge of her self-control the moment she saw Rahadin. She had only been controlling herself because the others seemed to want to talk.

But as soon as hostilities erupted, she uttered a short guttural cry of hunger and joy and leaped into the room, her awareness already sinking beneath the bright red haze of bloodlust and her hands already extending into long ragged claws.

Moving with her typical uncanny speed, she dropped to all fours and ran up the wall, onto the ceiling, crawled over everyone else and dropped onto the elf from above, trying to knock him down and grab hold of him by the neck.

 
 Spoiler 

Move: to the square behind Rahadin.
Bonus Action: RAGE!
Action: Attack!
-Attack 1: Shove! DC 21.
-Attack 2: Grapple! DC 24.
 
dangelo
Rahadin moved with otherworldly grace as the room erupted in chaos. He deftly sidestepped the crossbow bolt launched in fury by Yikkol, the projectile barely missing him. A look of disdain flickered across his face as he smoothly evaded, followed by an almost imperceptible smirk.

But once captured by Bori's magic, a sudden outpouring of sacred flame from Herbert caught him off guard and caused him to stagger momentarily. Scorching pain seared his flesh. With his guard open, Asha landed two consecutive blows.

Though challenged from all sides, Rahadin's eyes gleamed with a feral determination, a glint of unyielding loyalty to his master, Lord Strahd. Rue's ferocious attacks were the last nail in the coffin: it was time to retreat and reposition strategically. His eyes scanned the battlefield like a chess table, a puzzle waiting to be solved.

Rahadin whirled his scimitar in the air, deflecting more blows, and hit the floor with the palm of his free hand, putting all his energy into that movement. A cloud of mist burst out from a circle around him, and his very shape shifted with the cloud. One moment he was right there in the middle of his office; The next, he was on the other side of the battlefield, behind be enemy lines.

 The cloud shifted back into his elven shape. Rahadin launched himself down the staircase as fast as his legs allowed him; Down the hallway he retreated into the Brazier Room, barely stopping to yank the heavy door open. 
 
 Spoiler 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 [Bori]

(1d20+2)[9] Strength save against ensnaring strike
(1d6)[3] damage if it fails

[Lord Zinro]

Throw successful
(4d4)[6] poison damage

[Herbert]

(1d20+6)[11] Dexterity Save DC 16 against 10 radiant damage

[Yikkol]

Miss!

[Asha]

First attack: 8
Second attack: 14 damage

*Disadvantage to attack anyone except Asha

[Rue]

(1d20+10)[17] Dexterity (Acrobatics) against Shove DC 21
(1d20+10)[16] Dexterity (Acrobatics) against Grapple DC 24 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
 Rahadin casts Misty Step and the Dash action, spending 15 ft of movement to get up from Prone. His speed is 35 ft. 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As Rahadin uttered the arcane words necessary to perform a Misty Step (a spell Zinro himself had used), Zinro quickly traced an arcane symbol of his own to block the magic from occurring.

 
 Spoiler 
As a Reaction to Rahadin casting Misty Step, Zinro will use Counterspell at 3rd Level. If Rahadin is casting at 3rd, it's auto-counterspelled, otherwise I need to make a Spellcrafting Ability Check:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  vs 10 + Spell Level

EDIT: Alright, really hope it's being cast at 3rd! 😁
 
dangelo
Rahadin had underestimated the dark elf, after all. Knowing his only way out of that chaos was winning a mage duel against Zinro, he assumed a defensive stance and made sure he didn't get killed in the next few seconds. Everything would be decided in the next couple of moves. "Pawn to E4. Queen to H5. Queen to F7." He said out loud, between one blow and the other.

His opponents had surprised him and surrounded him, but Rahadin was the First General under Lord Strahd von Zarovich. Failure wasn't an option. His first priority was to take down the spellcasters who were pining him down, and to that his blade would sing.

 
 Spoiler: Attack rolls 
Since his spell was canceled, Rahadin attacks Bori three times.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Rahadin will make 3 attacks with his Scimitar, all at disadvantage. The first will target Bori.

(1d20+10)[ 15 ] or (1d20+10)[ 30 ] against Bori's AC ( 19 ) for (1d6+6)[ 12 ] slashing damage.

If successful, Bori's Constitution save for Concentration: (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Second attack

(1d20+10)[ 27 ] or (1d20+10)[ 25 ] against Bori's AC ( 19 ) for (1d6+6)[ 7 ] slashing damage.

If successful, Bori's Constitution save for Concentration: (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Third attack against Bori

(1d20+10)[ 19 ] or (1d20+10)[ 23 ] against Bori's AC ( 19 ) for (1d6+6)[ 12 ] slashing damage.

If successful, Bori's Constitution save for Concentration: (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 

19 damage dealt to Bori.
 
 
 Spoiler: D&amp;D and HP 
While Rahadin is Grappled and Restrained, he doesn't look defeated at all. Narratively speaking, he is "Prone" and "Grappled" because Rue is pouncing at him fiercely like an enranged tasmanian devil, and "Restrained" because vines are constantly growing under his feet and grabbing his ankles, and sometimes he evades them and sometimes not. Mechanically speaking, he still has a good chunk of his HP left, and hasn't been bloodied yet. Even at 0 speed, he still "moves" within his 5-foot square, so to speak.
 

Crossing blades with Bori, Rahadin stepped back, overwhelmed by Rue's grappling moves, and cried at the top of his lungs:  "Rise!" 

Shadows puddled between the stone tiles that covered the floor. They rose and swelled and bulged into a vaguely humanoid shape, one with raking claws, horns of a goat and face of a goblin. Its spectral wings fluttered above the ground, and its  "body" ended at the waist, in a smoky trail of shadows. Its eyes glowed red, and its form was a window into the abyss.

The demon phased into the room through the floor, spinning its wings and claws in a cruel attack.

 
 Spoiler: Attack rolls 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Shadow Demon attacks Bori with Advantage (Hidden)

(1d20+5)[ 24 ] or (1d20+5)[ 18 ] against AC  19  
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 (4d6+3)[ 14 ] psychic damage on Bori

Bori's Concentration save: (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 

17 damage dealt to Bori.
 
 
 Spoiler: Perception 
Perception rolls made in secret against the Shadow Demon's Hide action. He was still on the other side of the wall so there was no way any of you could see it then.
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Herbert:
Perception: (1d20+8)[ 17 ]

Yikkol
Perception: (1d20+10)[ 29 ]

Zinro:
Perception: (1d20+5)[ 9 ]

Bori:
Perception: (1d20+5)[ 14 ] or (1d20+5)[ 9 ] (Sentinel Shield)

Rue:
Perception: (1d20+6)[ 14 ]

Asha:
Perception (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 
 

[Religion DC 15 or Arcana DC 18 to identify the Shadow Demon. More information on its abilities and weaknesses depending on your result]
TaiLiu
Yikkol squints for a moment as abjuration magic flares out from Zinro and neutralizes Rahadin's  misty step . She strides into the room. In one seamless movement, Yikkol slings her crossbow onto her back, draws her whip upward, and attempts to rend his face. It's clear she's optimizing for indignity over damage.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  or  26 . 
 Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 5 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 23 ]  is  28  slashing. 
 Object Interaction: Draw her whip. 
 Cunning Action: Sheathe her crossbow. 
 
"Cut through the six of us with ease, huh? Coward!"
J-H
Herbert

 Seeing the minion of evil restrained, Herbert burns him again.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred flame  (3d8)[ 9 ]  radiant
Dexterity DC 16 half
 (1d20)[ 3 ]  or if dis,
 (1d20)[ 7 ] 
Disadvantage from restraint but adv from dodging I think
 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 You're served by a child of Khyber as well? Are there no depths you won't sink to?
 
Gritting his teeth at the rain of blows from the general and his servant, Bori continues his assault on the downd and bound elf.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  or  (1d20+11)[ 18 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 10 ]  plus 7 Smite damage

Will Smite if he gets a hit.
 
J-H
Recognizing the fiend for what it is, Herbert blasts it with a ray of Holy Light that leaves it an easy target.  
 Spoiler 
 guiding Bolt  (1D20+8)[ 15 ]   (4D6)[ 12 ]  radiant and next attack has advantage
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 2/4 (LR) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (LR) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (SR) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (SR)  
 
  

There was a lot going on around her. A LOT. Rahadin was casting magic spells, Lord Zinro was casting magic spells. People where throwing bolts of light and hurling whips and was there maybe some kind of living shadow over there?

But Rue, for all her faults, was at heart a simple, practical, goal-oriented creature. For the first time in a long time, she was confronted with a very simple, very direct situation: she was right in front of someone who needed to die, and she had the means to kill it.

Such a simple situational did wonders for her focus. So she bore down, ignored the insanity erupting all around her, and just threw herself at Rahadin with everything she had.

And consequences be damned.

 
 Spoiler 

Arcana 15. Unsurprisingly, Rue is not privy to secret cosmic mysteries.

Start of turn: 4 Bludgeoning damage (I'm not sure if the fact that my Unarmed Strikes are magical makes that magical or not)

Action: Attack! Two Claws.
-Attack 1a:  28, for 12 magical slashing damage. 
-Attack 1b:  28 for 11 magical slashing damage. 

Attack 2:  Attack 24 for  9  13 magical bludgeoning damage  (Added Str Bonus because it's not an off-hand attack)
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro himself hadn't encountered too many demons (that was always his sister's department), but he appreciated they could be big trouble; and with everyone else besides Herbert focusing on Rahadin, Zinro focused his attention on the Shadow creature. He didn't have any sources of Radiant at his disposal, and so fell back on a standard bolt of fire.

 
 Spoiler 
Staying where I am.
Main Action to cast Fire Bolt Cantrip (with advantage thanks to Guiding Bolt):  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 18 ] , for  (2d10+4)[ 8 ]  Fire Damage

EDIT: If Guiding Bolt missed you can simply ignore the 2nd roll, since my 1st roll was better anyway
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 101/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha knew something had emerged before he could see it; the bionoid was pulling him to fight a dangerous foe. He looks up to see a monster emerge from the shadows and attack Bori. Trusting Rue to handle Rahadin, Asha gives in to the bionoid and rushes over to Bori's side, assaulting the shadow creature with his fists.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
Arcana Result: 18 (rolled in OOC thread)

  Move   - Move adjacent to Shadow Demon
  Action   - Attack Shadow Demon
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 30 ] 
Damage  (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 27 ] 
Damage  (1d8+7)[ 11 ] 
  Hit Effect   - Shadow Demon has Disadvantage to hit anyone else other than Asha until start of Asha's next turn.
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol swings her whip towards one of the flying swords. She attempts to grab onto the handle and throw the sword toward the ground.

 
 Opportunity attack:  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 5 ]  slashing plus  (5d6)[ 22 ]  sneak attack for being adjacent to Rue. 
 
dangelo
 
 Spoiler: Resolution 
[Yikkol]
28 damage to Rahadin

[Bori]
17 damage to Rahadin

[Herbert]
12 damage to Shadow Demon

[Rue]
36 damage to Rahadin

[Zinro]
4 damage to Shadow Demon]
 


Rahadin's battle cry turned into a scream of pain. While he graciously danced away from blows and strikes, Yikkol's whip landed right on his face, wounding his eyebrows and panting his face blood red, and Rue went all out with her claws.

"Damn you, creature..." He wiped the blood from his face, his vision blurred by pain and anger   "Damn you all, cursed fools!" 

Rahadin made a mysterious symbol with his hand, touching the tip of his ring finger with this thumb, and pronouncing a single magic word. [Arcana DC 17 to understand more of what is happening.*] Immediately, the numerous swords, axes and halberds that decorated the room gained life and floated out of their racks. Each of the weapons was castle-forged and bore the Barovian crest, quartered crimson and azure symbolizing the nobility of their blood and the blue sky that stretched over the grasslands that the Valley of Barovia had once been. How ironic.

 
 Spoiler: Weapons action 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Four flying swords attack Zinro ("animated lances")

(1d20+4)[6] for (1d8+2)[4]
(1d20+4)[17] for (1d8+2)[3]
(1d20+4)[14] for (1d8+2)[6]
(1d20+4)[15] for (1d8+2)[7] 
 
 


"I must remind you of your place, fools..." He rolled away from Rue, but her claws had dented his armor and she just wouldn't let go. He whirled and wiggled and struggle, taking advantage of his nimble form to slip through her claws. "I will kill you all, scum! Your souls will sing a deathly choir to my battles to come!"

And just like that, those who were closer to Rahadin started to hear voices singing. What sounded like a church choir at first, soon revealed to be screams of agony and despair, desperate cries for mercy. The voices of all the souls who had been severed from their bodies by Rahadin's blade or poison rose from hell to sing into his enemies' ears.

 
 Spoiler: Rahadin action 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Bonus action: Deathly Choir (3d10)[12] of psychic damage in a 10 ft radius centered on Rahadin: Asha, Bori, Nethis, Yikkol, Dot and Rue.
Will save DC 17 for half damage

Rolling for Bori right now to figure out concentration:
(1d20+10)[13] Wisdom save against Deathly Choir
(1d20+6)[11] Constitution save for Concentration 
 
 
 
 Spoiler: Shadow Demon action 
Shadow Demon attacks Bori again  (1d20+5)[ 16 ]  for  (2d6+3)[ 10 ]  psychic damage
Bori's concentration, if it hits:  (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
 
 
 Spoiler: Homebrew disclaimer 
This was an extraordinary Lair action, which Rahadin shouldn't have access to according to the book. Like the tank/wizard/druid/archer quirks I gave the Vampire Spawns back in the chapel, these modifications are an attempt to rebalance Castle Ravenloft to 6 PCs rather than 4. I understand the premise of the game is a genuine raw Ravenloft experience, so let me know if you something feels unfair to you. I'll gladly disclose my design choices with the group, since I know how sketchy Homebrew can look when it's not announced previously.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the choir of the dead rang out, poor Dot was blasted from existence. She wasn't gone for good; Zinro would need to summon her again when he had time.

For now, he had more pressing issues; such as the 4 animated weapons surrounding him. It was a shame Zinro didn't have such a spell. Once again he uttered the mystical words used to transport him across short distances and with another  pop  of reality, he appeared inside Rahadin's office proper.

He once again focused on attacking the Shadow Demon, flinging another Bolt of Fire at it.

 
 Spoiler 
Dot is destroyed by the Deathly Choir, as she only has 1HP. As a reminder it's a summoned familiar, not a natural familiar.
Bonus Action to cast Misty Step at 3rd Level and teleport to the other side of the room.
Main Action to cast Fire Bolt cantrip at the Shadow Demon. Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 14 ]  Fire Damage.

EDIT: Natural 1 for the attack, if you're using fumbles
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol cusses. She tries to block out the screams by putting her hands over her ears.

 
 Wisdom Save (DC 17):  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  or take 12 psychic damage. Save halves. 
 
Then, with a scream, Yikkol attempts to slap her whip across Rahadin's face again.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+8)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 16 ] . Rahadin gets half-cover from the shadow demon in front of him. That's +2 to his AC. 
 Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 18 ]  slashing damage. 
 
"Bastard! Surrender already! What use is your loyalty to Strahd?"

EDIT: I believe that's a miss. :O
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
His path blocked by the flying weapons, Herbert interposes his shield and calls down the cleansing light of Pelor.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred Flame on Shadow Demon, Dex DC 16 or take  (3d8)[ 11 ]  radiant damage, which he's probably vulnerable to.
SD Dex  (1d20)[ 19 ]  plus mods
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha grimaced against the psychic scream, though his armor masked his face. Despite his thunder gauntlets, the shadow demon was focusing on Bori, trying to take down the halflings damage. The demon was already impacted by the Icon Herbert was carrying, so Asha switches to a different tactic. He stretches his hands outward, and the orbs in the palms of his gauntlet glow and lash out with radiant energy.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 
Save vs Psychic Scream DC 17 =  (1d20+2)[ 11 ]  (If save fails, use Bonus Action to gain 10 THP w/ Defensive Field.)

  Action   - Sacred Flame vs Shadow Demon
Damage -  (2d8)[ 11 ] 
Shadow Demon Dex Save -  (1d20)[ 14 ]  + mods
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Halfling and Fastieth screams add themselves to the cacophony, before the latter is cut short.

Bori falls, his reflexes from a mifetime in the saddle allowing him to roll with.the impact and leap back to his feet.

 NETHIS! NOOOooo!  In half.a heartbeat he would feel her re-enter their mask, but by that point his was already hacking at Rahadin's prone form in a fury.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Damage from ensnaring strike from Rahadim's turn  (1d6)[ 4 ] .

They both failed their saves and Nethis "dies".

Assume he falls prone, use reaction or half.movement to remain on his feet.

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  or  18  for  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 26 ]  or  23  for  (1d8+7)[ 11 ] 

Forgot to roll with advantage, even after posting a reminder about Yikkol. Rolled them in the OOC thread after I stopped facepalming.
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 121/128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

The pain and shock of the psychic scream tore through Rue's mind, but beneath her rage and hate she barely even noticed. It was like news from a faraway land.

 Damn you creature... 

Rue put her face close enough to Rahadin to feel the warm beating of his living heart.

"Your master already damned me, slave. Let me show you the fruits of his labour!"

And with that she tore into him. Her long, ragged claws slashed at his face and chest. And then, with a cry of anger, she leaned forward and sank her teeth into his neck and drew the lifeforce from him with his blood, the pain from his assault fading as she fed.

She pulled her face away, still dripping with gore, and smashed him in the face with her clenched fist.

 
 Spoiler 

Wis Save 19 (takes 9 psychic damage)

 3 Bludgeoning Damage   to Rahadin at the start of the round.

No Move.

Attack 1:
-Claw 1: Nat 20!  16 magical slashing damage 
-Claw 2: Nat 20!  16 magical slashing damage 

Attack 2:
Bite! Attack 18 for  9 piercing damage 
-Empower myself and heal 9 damage.

Bonus Attack: Attack 27 for  7 bludgeoning damage 

(48 damage total)
 
dangelo
The Shadow Demon phased through the stone walls into the chambers that once had been the throne room of Castle Ravenloft. The "Dark Throne" where the fellowship were to finally face Strahd, according to Madam Eva and her strange cards. Its material form was burnt and shred apart from the battle, but still it lived. One of its horns had been broken permanently, a serious damage to the creature's proud existance.

 "My lord,"  Its voice came from hollow of its core.  "We lost the office. They killed Rahadin and gained access to the Brazier." 

Strahd had been drinking red wine off a crystal glass - he threw it onto the floor and stood from the throne. "You jest?" asked the Count.

 "They are fierce, my lord. And coward, like scavengers." 

Strahd paced around the throne room. Rahadin had been his most loyal servant, and his First General during the Conquest of Barovia. The Dusk Elf was an assassin, an engineer, a master of logistics and an alchemist, an arcanist, and had etiquette.

For a moment, the Shadow Demon felt fear when Strahd von Zarovich looked deep into his empty eyes. "Tell. Me. Everything."

 "The half-blood, the crusader and the bionoid, those are their infantry. You are too mighty, my lord, that even the lowest among your your children are strong. They must be kept at bay. The whipcracker will always be an issue until it dies, and the dark elf is a powerful wizard, more powerful than Rahadin."  The demon picked its next words very carefully.  He might have arcane secrets unknown even to you, my lord. 
 But when you face them, my lord, the priest must die fast, for he bears the Bright Light and has retrieved the Icon of Ravenloft. 

To that information, Strahd was startled. "They touched the icon and lived?! Dark powers curse me. No wonder they killed Rahadin so easily." His eyes darted around the chamber. Slowly, Strahd walked back to his throne, not pacing wildly anymore. "Wake up my children."

 "Which of them, my lord?" 

The earth shook under Castle Ravenloft when Strahd cried:  "ALL OF THEM!!!" . The Shadow Demon immediately removed itself from the throne room. Thousands bats that slept in the cracks and crevices on the grey stone suddenly flew into the night, blackening out the moon and filling the sky like a dark cloud.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Random encounters are -upgraded-, and all numbers of enemies (like 2d4 bats) are maximized. Thought it would be fair to let you know.
 


There wasn't a single drop of blood left in Rahadin's body. He finally stopped struggling and his scimitar fell from his hands, his body hanging limp from Rue's claws. The demon had phased through the floor and was nowhere to be seen.

The combatants exchanged a cautious look. Was it over?

A low rumble grew into an earthquake. Books flew from the bookshelf, weapons fell from their racks. Strahd's scream of rage echoed in the rumble of the earth, until it died off in the distance and everything returned to normal.

End of combat!
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 There wasn't a single drop of blood left in Rahadin's body. He finally stopped struggling and his scimitar fell from his hands, his body hanging limp from Rue's claws. The demon had phased through the floor and was nowhere to be seen.

The combatants exchanged a cautious look. Was it over?

A low rumble grew into an earthquake. Books flew from the bookshelf, weapons fell from their racks. Strahd's scream of rage echoed in the rumble of the earth, until it died off in the distance and everything returned to normal. 
 

"It's over," Yikkol said, wiping a bit of blood from her face.

"Rahadin is dead. Rue? It's over. You, uh, needn't keep doing that."

Oblivious to what has just transpired between Strahd and the shadow demon, Yikkol addresses the group at large. "That shadowy creature abandoned its master. The weapons are inert again. We're safe. I'm sure that scream of rage in the distance was nothing important."

She feels for the comforting aura of Bori and notices something amiss. "Are you all right, Bori? Your lizard..." She searches for comforting words and comes up short. "I'm sorry."

Yikkol stands awkwardly for a few moments before turning away from the party. She distracts herself by searching the lab for useful supplies.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the Demon disappeared and the animated weapons fell, Zinro began to relax. He was still perturbed by Rue's condition; but so far she had seemed to be on their side.


 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "That shadowy creature abandoned its master. The weapons are inert again. We're safe. I'm sure that scream of rage in the distance was nothing important." 
 

  "Safe, but only for a brief moment I'm sure. I consider the scream a minor victory. It shows we can hurt the lord of this castle."   Zinro said.   "My familiar was destroyed. If we get a chance to long rest, I can bring her back. I will say that I am beginning to run out of energy for my spells. I should be fine for another battle, maybe two; but not more than that: I would need to rest."  

Zinro began to pace around the office, looking to find any secrets or items Rahadin may have kept here.

 
 Spoiler 
Zinro would like to investigate the office for things of interest. Investigation:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ] 
 
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Lost to the frenzy of hunger and anger, Rue drank and drank and drank until there was nothing left to drink and she stood up to her full height and, almost contemptuously, with all the uncanny strength of her long, thin arms, hurled the desiccated corpse against the brick wall.

She looked around, her eyes wide, a blush spreading across her alabaster skin (and fading just as quickly), her face dripping with gore. Her bestial gaze fell hungrily on her party members and for a briefest of moments, it looked like maybe she was too far gone to stop herself.

But she shook her head once, twice, a third time. And her body slumped and her limbs lost their tension. And her claws receded.

She used whatever fabric was nearby to wipe her face.

And she stepped back, away, against the wall, too ashamed to meet anyone's gaze.

 
 Spoiler 

Nil
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori is seemingly unaware of their victory or the gore on the floor (what little escaped before Rue...ended thunga. He sinks to his knees, hands reaching out to gently embrace the form of the fallen dinosaur, even as it begins to fade from existence.

When Nethis's physical form is gone, he is left rocking slightly in place on the floor. Both of his hands are now tightly pressed again his fearsome mask. There remains a flicker of movement within it, but the previous savagery has gone for now.  I'm sorry... he whispers quietly.
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro began to pace around the office, looking to find any secrets or items Rahadin may have kept here. 
 

The office was also Rahadin's chambers. There was a small bed nested against the corner, a wardrobe of clothes, a chest filled with all sorts of basic arcane materials (a silver dagger, a golden ring, a copper coin, rolls of parchment riddled with sigils and inscriptions), and of course, Rahadin's own spellbook. It contained several spells up to the Second Circle of Spellcasting (according to the scholars of Faerun - Rahadin himself organized spells in 32 levels rather than 9).

On his desk, yellowed books contained pages and pages of names with a small description of their death next to them: a list of all the adventurers Rahadin had killed while protecting Castle Ravenloft. He had already written their names, only the description of death was missing.

The weapons on the racks were all magical, as Zinro noticed: Enchanted in their creation to pierce through mundane defenses, and given the crest of Ravenloft to bear.

 
 Spoiler 
There are 23 Martial Weapons on the walls, one of each of the weapons listed in the book. They're all  +1 .
Also there's an Alchemy kit on the desk.
 
J-H
 Herbert 
 "Rue, are you...okay?" 

Herbert looks to see who may need healing magic.

As Zinro points out the magical weapons, the priest collects a +1 Mace.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 On his desk, yellowed books contained pages and pages of names with a small description of their death next to them: a list of all the adventurers Rahadin had killed while protecting Castle Ravenloft. He had already written their names, only the description of death was missing. 
 

"What?" Yikkol glances at Zinro for the briefest of moments before rushing over to the old books. Ignoring Bori's breakdown and Rue's display of shame, she begins flipping through the books for any sign of the Architect's Guild.

She wants to see her mother's name.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "The weapons on the walls here are all magically enchanted to swing, to stab, to bludgeon, better than a normal weapon of their type. Take whatever you need. There's also a log here of all the people the late Rahadin has killed; so if you're hoping to learn the fate of someone who came before, it's a place to start looking."  

Zinro began to collect any arcane materials of any value and took a moment to peruse the spellbook.

He looked up briefly only to say to Bori:   "My condolences for the loss of your mount. Rahadin has paid for it's destruction, and soon Strahd will too."   There wasn't a huge amount of sympathy in the Drow's voice, but he acknowledged Bori's pain and tactical disadvantage of losing his mount.

 
 Spoiler 
If any of the arcane materials have a GP value, Zinro will take them. What spells are in Rahadin's spellbook? When we have time I might try to copy some to my own spellbook.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

For all of the lack of warmth on his words, Zinro's Co.dolances broke through Bori's grief. He wasn't alone, Nathis was still with him. What's more, he had allies, possibly even a future friend or two. He slowly got back.to his feet.

 Thank you Zinro. I know she's no more gone than before, but failing to protect her...again...is hard. She definitely takes comfort in seeing him go down, always had a bloodthirsty streak that one. I just want to tear Strahd down.  He tilts his head as if listening.  Apparently the general's choir agree.
 

Faint singing fills the air once more, a note of defiance now replacing the pain and anguish from.ments before. It seems to swirls.around Bori for a moment, reinvigorating him and any others that need it.

 
 Spoiler: Action 
Casting Prayer of Healing at 2 because I'm a doofus and prepped that instead of Aura of vitality.

Bori and anyone who is hurt heal  (2d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
J-H
Herbert walks over to the injured Bori and channels more of Pelor's power to close his wounds further.

1st level Cure Wounds  (1d8+8)[ 15 ] 
truemane
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  Herbert 
 "Rue, are you...okay?" 

Herbert looks to see who may need healing magic.

As Zinro points out the magical weapons, the priest collects a +1 Mace. 
 

Rue's gaze snaps to to Herbert's like an animal's might when startled. She frowns.

"I will never be okay until the Devil is destroyed. Or I am. But I am as close as I am likely to get."

A long pause.

"Thank you."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 "I will never be okay until the Devil is destroyed. Or I am. But I am as close as I am likely to get."

A long pause.

"Thank you." 
 

  "If I may ask, what do you intend to do once he is destroyed?"   Zinro suddenly began to worry about the possibility of Rue 'inheriting' the castle from Strahd.
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "What?" Yikkol glances at Zinro for the briefest of moments before rushing over to the old books. Ignoring Bori's breakdown and Rue's display of shame, she begins flipping through the books for any sign of the Architect's Guild.

She wants to see her mother's name. 
 

The tome was old and chunky, its pages made of tightly woven fibers. Yikkol only had to go back a few pages  until a sequence of four names caught her attention: High-ranking members of the Architect's Guild, possibly her mother's companions. Their deaths had been marked as  "Succumbed to the screams of the Deathly Choir" .

The dates showed that the four members of the guild had died in the same day, a few weeks after  Jozan the Priest , who fell to Rahadin's scimitar, and before  Annathar the Eladrín , who was poisoned.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
The shadow demon phases into the wall and Asha tries to grab at it; his fists close around air. He punches the wall in frustration and turns to see what remains of the encounter. The group puts down the animated weapons and Rue finishes off Rahadin.

Asha takes stock of everyone. He claps Bori on the back, and is about to say something, when a tremor runs through the room and items begin to fly from the shelves and tables. An unearthly scream, that of Strahd himself, can be heard ripping through the air. Asha doesn't move but his eyes scan the room.   Come Bori, you will have time to make things right, we shouldn't linger.  
  Everyone, take a weapon if you can wield it. Rue, prepare for more violence; Rahadin got nothing less than he deserved, and that will be the case for many more, I'm sure of it. We need you ready for the next fight.  

Asha's words do not lack sympathy, but are direct and to the point, the vampire count's reaction ominous in the soldier's mind. He looks around and spots Yikkol near the table, engrossed in a book,   Yikkol?  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The tome was old and chunky, its pages made of tightly woven fibers. Yikkol only had to go back a few pages  until a sequence of four names caught her attention: High-ranking members of the Architect's Guild, possibly her mother's companions. Their deaths had been marked as  "Succumbed to the screams of the Deathly Choir" .

The dates showed that the four members of the guild had died in the same day, a few weeks after  Jozan the Priest , who fell to Rahadin's scimitar, and before  Annathar the Eladrín , who was poisoned. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
  He looks around and spots Yikkol near the table, engrossed in a book,   Yikkol?   
 

Yikkol turns. She's smiling. Her eyes shine. "My mom," she says. "I found her. She's in here. I know what happened to her. Something about a screaming choir..."

She softly tucks the book away in her backpack. Then she grabs an axe off the rack, puts a heavy foot on Rahadin's body, and aims for his neck. There's a wet crunch as she severs the cervical vertebrae from the rest of his body. The air stinks of iron. The floor of the workshop-bedroom, already slick with red, begins to overflow with his blood.

Yikkol reaches down for Rahadin's head. A steady stream of blood connects it to his body. Then a trickle. She's smiling at Asha. She smiles at everyone in the party. The same smile, but this time it feels menacing.

"My mom's bones may not be here, but I can still bring home a trophy. My family will see that years of my life were  not  wasted. Rest now, Mama. Your faithful daughter has avenged you."


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Faint singing fills the air once more, a note of defiance now replacing the pain and anguish from.ments before. It seems to swirls.around Bori for a moment, reinvigorating him and any others that need it. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The weapons on the racks were all magical, as Zinro noticed: Enchanted in their creation to pierce through mundane defenses, and given the crest of Ravenloft to bear. 
 

Bori's healing closes a cut and disappears several of Yikkol's bruises. She's busy replacing some of her weapons with their magical counterparts and doesn't really seem to notice.

 
 Unless someone else wants them, Yikkol replaces: a whip, a rapier, a blowgun, and a net. 
 
"You're right, Aelki. There's a doorway here. Let's go and warm up Strahd's cold chambers, shall we?"
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori shivers at the spine-tingling scream. At Asha's comment Bori nods and begins to straighten up. Finally, Yikkol's messy souvenir snaps him out of his inner turmoil.

 I would recommend bagging that or something.  He says somewhat distastefully.  It will make a terrible mess as is and make it far easier to track us. 

He eyes the door briefly.

 I agree that we should check the next room. After that the tower maybe? I don't want to be too close to here after that scream.  He shudders once more.

He grabs thehand crossbow from the wall and any ammunition lying around.
dangelo
 This thirty-foot-square room is a shambles. Scattered furniture lies in heaps near the walls. Broken bones lie scattered amid crumpled and crushed plate armor. Shields and swords jut from the walls as if driven into them by some tremendous force. 

The party enters the room through the north wall, coming from Rahadin's office. A dark archway leads out through the east wall, and another door lead further to the south, opposite of the way they have come.

 
 Spoiler: Owlbear 
 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha walks over to Yikkol and reads the page she had been looking at,    ... Deathly Choir...    Unsure what to make of it, he grabs a magical light crossbow, with any accompanying bolts he can find, as well as a magical longsword. Yikkol makes a gruesome trophy of Rahadin's head. The bionoid gives a curt nod to her and moves to the doorway into the other room. He stops short.

Littered within are crushed bones and armors, and weapons and shields are impaled into the walls.   Rahadin said he would expect us to come in through here. It looks like anyone he didn't want to treat with got crushed.   He peers further into the room, looking for signs of a mechanism that may betray the presence of a trap.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Asha has proficiency in Thieves Tools and a Passive Perception of 16 and Passive Investigation of 19.

If rolls are needed,   Perception  - (1d20+6)[ 13 ] , and   Investigation  - (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
 
dangelo
The shields and breastplates scattered about the room had the crest of Barovia imprinted on them, the same vermillion-and-azure sigil found in Rahadin's collection of weapons. However, these were simply mundane pieces of equipment, uniforms once worn by the dozens and dozens of guards who had died in this very room. Following these clues, Asha concluded that a long time ago - centuries, maybe - someone had retreated into this room when swarmed by guards, and then killed them all with an incredible amount of power.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha looks back to the others,   I don't see signs of a mechanical trap. Looks to be the remains of what might of have been someone's last stand, except they got the better of all these Barovian soldiers.   He enters the room and picks up a rent piece of armor,   If it was Strahd that did this to the group of soldiers that surrounded him, we have an idea of his physical power.   He steps further into the room, and looks through the doorway to his left.
J-H
Herbert follows behind.   "Unnaturally strong, for certain.  Powerful undead creatures animated by evil grow even stronger as they age." 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Finally, Yikkol's messy souvenir snaps him out of his inner turmoil.

 I would recommend bagging that or something.  He says somewhat distastefully.  It will make a terrible mess as is and make it far easier to track us.  
 

Yikkol digs around for a container to place the elf's head in.

"You don't seem too happy about our victory," she says. There's a small note of surprise in her voice.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The shields and breastplates scattered about the room had the crest of Barovia imprinted on them, the same vermillion-and-azure sigil found in Rahadin's collection of weapons. However, these were simply mundane pieces of equipment, uniforms once worn by the dozens and dozens of guards who had died in this very room. Following these clues, Asha concluded that a long time ago - centuries, maybe - someone had retreated into this room when swarmed by guards, and then killed them all with an incredible amount of power. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha looks back to the others,   I don't see signs of a mechanical trap. Looks to be the remains of what might of have been someone's last stand, except they got the better of all these Barovian soldiers.   He enters the room and picks up a rent piece of armor,   If it was Strahd that did this to the group of soldiers that surrounded him, we have an idea of his physical power.   He steps further into the room, and looks through the doorway to his left. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert follows behind.   "Unnaturally strong, for certain.  Powerful undead creatures animated by evil grow even stronger as they age."  
 

Yikkol frowns in confusion. "Why would Strahd do this to his own soldiers?"
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 I'm glad we put an end to thag monster.  He gestures towards where Nethis fell.  But I don't exactly feel like jumping fir joy. Also, I've cleaned up enough blood after squabbles in the mess tent git ugly. I ain't cleaning up any more unless I have to. 
J-H
 Herbert 
 "This place wasn't all his once.  Remember the tombs?  His parents, and even his brother, were not as he was.  He chose a different path, in rebellion against what is right and good.  I suppose there was a civil war that went with his choices, and such things are rarely bloodless.  For all that he may be polite, or try to seem genteel, he is also evil." 
dangelo
The way East was blocked by shades, even for the sharpest of eyes: Several silhouettes stood in place, frozen in time, swarming the room and blocking the view to what lay behind them. The silhouettes wore the same uniform found scattered outside Rahadin's office, except their form was phantasmagorical. Even frozen in time, the soldiers kept such disciplined formation that only military training could provide.

The fellowship soon realizes that stepping out of the room would trigger these phantoms and recreate the battle that had wiped them out centuries ago - Except his time it would be the fellowship in Strahd's place.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Any character who steps out of the room, either to the South or to the East, will trigger the encounter. Leaving to the North, towards Rahadin's office, doesn't trigger the encounter. You may roll Arcana to understand more of how this works, and other effects that might be triggered by exiting the room.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Before leaving the office, Zinro took a moment to understand how to operate the secret door in the wardrobe and then closed it. He quickly mentioned how to open it from this side; in case the party had to retreat this way.


 


Zinro took a look around the room that silently reeked of struggle and death, and then at the shades.

  "As you say, priest; an encounter likely took place here as a result of Strahd's affliction. It would explain why there are so few guards for such a large castle. Perhaps Rahadin was specially warded to be allowed to pass through this room into his office?"  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  I'm glad we put an end to thag monster.  He gestures towards where Nethis fell.  But I don't exactly feel like jumping fir joy. Also, I've cleaned up enough blood after squabbles in the mess tent git ugly. I ain't cleaning up any more unless I have to.  
 

"I'll skin the head when we take a break again," Yikkol says. Despite the monstrous suggestion of skinning a humanoid skull, she clearly means this as a kind offer.


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  Herbert 
 "This place wasn't all his once.  Remember the tombs?  His parents, and even his brother, were not as he was.  He chose a different path, in rebellion against what is right and good.  I suppose there was a civil war that went with his choices, and such things are rarely bloodless.  For all that he may be polite, or try to seem genteel, he is also evil."  
 

Yikkol listens in an obsequious fashion, nodding every so often.

"That makes perfect sense, your holiness. To kill his brother and all these guards single-handedly... Strahd must be a monster of a man. I wonder if his vampiric powers manifested before or after he took over."


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The way East was blocked by shades, even for the sharpest of eyes: Several silhouettes stood in place, frozen in time, swarming the room and blocking the view to what lay behind them. The silhouettes wore the same uniform found scattered outside Rahadin's office, except their form was phantasmagorical. Even frozen in time, the soldiers kept such disciplined formation that only military training could provide.

The fellowship soon realizes that stepping out of the room would trigger these phantoms and recreate the battle that had wiped them out centuries ago - Except his time it would be the fellowship in Strahd's place. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro took a look around the room that silently reeked of struggle and death, and then at the shades.

  "As you say, priest; an encounter likely took place here as a result of Strahd's affliction. It would explain why there are so few guards for such a large castle. Perhaps Rahadin was specially warded to be allowed to pass through this room into his office?"   
 

"Or perhaps he regularly travelled through the teleportation caudron instead," Yikkol suggested.

"Your holiness? Should we try to move through these ghost-infested rooms? Or should we head back down?"
J-H
 Herbert 
 "I do not believe these are spirits which can be put to rest... but they may yet exist for a reason." 

After some discussion, Herbert steps forwards through the door to the east, his shield at the ready.
(there's time for everyone to move themselves out of Rahadin's office to the smashed room)
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert assesses the shades of soldiers past.  They bear the images of valiant warriors, but now only hunger for the lives of others.  There is no virtue left to them.  They are creatures of darkness.   "And Pelor brings the light."   He steps back so that both groups, clustered at the door and hungry to take what is not theirs, can clearly see him hold the Symbol of Pelor high, as it glows like the sun.  Light washes over them.

 
 Spoiler 

Move 10' west from where he is on the map, on another computer right now.
Turn/destroy undead.  Any CR 1 or lower undead that fails a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw is destroyed.
Here are a bunch of saves without modifiers, in groups of 4.
 (1d20)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20)[ 14 ] 
 (1d20)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20)[ 11 ] 
 (1d20)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20)[ 11 ] 
 (1d20)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20)[ 18 ] 
 (1d20)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20)[ 6 ] 

If any survive, the icon means they have disadvantage on attack rolls against Herbert.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert assesses the shades of soldiers past.  They bear the images of valiant warriors, but now only hunger for the lives of others.  There is no virtue left to them.  They are creatures of darkness.   "And Pelor brings the light."   He steps back so that both groups, clustered at the door and hungry to take what is not theirs, can clearly see him hold the Symbol of Pelor high, as it glows like the sun.  Light washes over them. 
 

"Most righteous work, your holiness!" Yikkol says.

She stays put, waiting for some of her party to enter the fray before shooting at a straggler shadow.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 27 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 9 ]  and  (5d6)[ 20 ]  magical piercing. 29 damage total. 
 
Dr.Samurai
[QUOTE=Dr.Samurai;25898983]      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Once the plan is made, Asha remains alert. Herbert triggers the trap and Asha blasts whichever survivor he can see with light.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Action   - Sacred Flame vs a survivor
Dex Save  (1d20)[ 9 ]  vs DC 17, ignores cover,  (2d8)[ 6 ]  radiant damage
 
dangelo
That evening, Sir Gregor had inspected his men's equipment and their quarters, making sure they were keeping it nice and tidy, and his weapons in good condition. He had been born and raised in the Valley of Barovia, after his family and several others moved from the homeland to the recently conquered province in search of a better life. In the Valley of Barovia, Gregor enjoyed a pleasant childhood and an active adulthood, and as the commoner son of a blacksmith, he saw the opportunity to enlist in Lord Strahd's household guard. Gregor became a soldier at the age of 14, captain of the guard at 25 and full fledged knight at 40, as a reward for a whole life of service. Now, at 52, he had a grizzled beard and a bad knee, and was eager for his retirement.

But not anymore. Last night, his Grace Prince Sergei von Zarovich had been murdered, pushed off the balcony by his brother, and both had plummeted to their death. While the smallfolk loved and adored Prince Sergei, the death of Count Strahd had come with a guilty sort of relief for his servants. Over the years, the once comely and charming monarch had become bitter and cruel. He would punish his servants for the smallest mistakes, and often lost his temper and smashed vases, mirrors, antiques and decorations in his rage. Only the elders of the village remembered the good ruler Strahd had once been.

Sir Gregor was woken by the alarm. A guard blew the horn once ("Stay alert"), twice ("Gather at the courtyard") and finally thrice ("Take up arms immediately"). Three times meant imminent danger, and never once in his life Gregor had witnessed it actually happen. He threw his chainmail over his head and drew his sword, rushing down the stairs to the barracks.

* * *

 "Infidels! Heretics! You have betrayed me!"  Strahd cried at the top of his lungs. But although he still looked like the Count he had been, Lord Strahd wasn't human anymore. That night he rose from his coffin in the catacombs, climbed the stairs up to the chapel and gathered his men to announce his return - but the soldiers didn't see their beloved ruler in Strahd anymore. They raised their lances, rallied by the priest of Ravenloft.  Now you shall suffer the consequences! 

The soldiers advance, led by Sir Hector, fighting through fear and despair. Strahd had done a good job turning them into real warriors: they didn't shy away from battle, even when facing such a monstrosity.

 "ENOUGH!" 

A shock wave blasted from Strahd's hands, throwing his household guards against the walls and breaking their bodies in many different places at the same time. The smell of blood filled the air and, for the first time in his cursed existence, the Devil Strahd felt hungry. He walked up to Sir Gregor, who desperately clung to his life despite his cracked spine. Strahd needed blood, blood from a living source. Dead blood would only harm him.

"We trusted you... We...  loved  you..." Gregor grunted in pain as Strahd towered above him.

 "Yes."  A grin stretched along the Devil's face.  "And now you have served your ultimate purpose... Of satiating my HUNGER!" 

The last thing Sir Gregor saw was Strahd's vampire fangs projecting out of his mouth.  Morninglord save us... 

* * *

Not only the eight phantasmagorical soldiers were affected by Herbert's Bright Light, but several others who were just about to pour into the room, hiding in formation just outside the doorways. Over a dozen shadows were desintegrated immediately, and a few others were left startled by such power. Those who remained were easily eliminated by the rest of the fellowship, in a confusing mix of reality and memories. In the end, they had all shared the same vision.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Combat is over :)
 
TaiLiu
The vision was all-encompassing and impossible to resist. Yikkol felt herself a bystander in these terrible moments, and when they finally cleared, Yikkol had to pinch herself to ensure that she was really back in reality.

She looked around. Everyone else saw it, too. Strahd rose from the dead a vampire—just like  the old tale of King Guriptu . But who were Strahd's priests? Who stole his soul from Heaven?

"We all have our own reasons for being here," Yikkol said, addressing her compatriots, "but clearly the Fates arranged for our meeting. We are to return Strahd's soul to Heaven and right the natural order."

Determination blazed in her eyes, and also her heart and the rest of her body, but no one saw it because determination is invisible.

"There's a door here and a hallway here," she said to Herbert. "Which way, your righteousness?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Although Zinro didn't like priests so much, he was glad to have one in this cursed place. Not only was Herbert a potent weapon, but he was also the most likely target for attacks; helping to keep Zinro alive just that little bit longer.

  "Such loyalty, thrown away in an instant. A pity."   Is all Zinro could say for the vision.   "I wonder how Strahd came about his vampiric power in the first place. Did a stranger come to court that day? Perhaps he was cursed by this 'Morninglord' for the murder of his brother? I have to wonder if there is some greater force at work here."   He mused.
truemane
      
       Rue      
 Dhampir Barbarian 8/Fighter 2 
 AC: 17 HP: 128 
 PP:16 PIv: 11 PIs: 16 
 Rage: 4/4 (LongnRest) 
 Empowering Bite: 4/4  (Long Rest) 
 Second Wind: 1/1 (Short Rest) 
 Action Surge: 1/1 (Short Rest)  
 
  

Rue, who had been following behind, quiet and out of the way after she'd completely lost control of herself during the fight, sniffed and frowned at Zinro's question.

"Some day he was cursed by the realm itself, by Barovia. Some say the realm exists because of his curse. Some day the two came into existence the same day. Some say this is his prison for the sins he committed. Some say it is the Barovians'. There are never any other vampires in any of the stories the people tell themselves. Only Strahd. Always Strahd. The First and Only."


 
 Spoiler 

Nil
 
J-H
 Herbert 
 "It does become more clear, though, that he was certainly not always...this.  Did you notice the captain's feelings in that vision?  Strahd was once as he should have been.

It seems like the castle is full of not his minions, but his sins, those who joined him in them, and his memories.  There are tales of warning, fables, about the gods punishing those who have offended them by trapping them in their own particular prisons or hells suited to their nature.  We may have stepped into such a place.  Then again, it also has things like the nascent vampires we fought in the chapel, so the parallel to the stories isn't perfect.

Yikkol, you come from a very different land.  Do your people have such stories?" 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Such loyalty, thrown away in an instant. A pity."   Is all Zinro could say for the vision.   "I wonder how Strahd came about his vampiric power in the first place. Did a stranger come to court that day? Perhaps he was cursed by this 'Morninglord' for the murder of his brother? I have to wonder if there is some greater force at work here."   He mused. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by truemane 
 Rue, who had been following behind, quiet and out of the way after she'd completely lost control of herself during the fight, sniffed and frowned at Zinro's question.

"Some day he was cursed by the realm itself, by Barovia. Some say the realm exists because of his curse. Some day the two came into existence the same day. Some say this is his prison for the sins he committed. Some say it is the Barovians'. There are never any other vampires in any of the stories the people tell themselves. Only Strahd. Always Strahd. The First and Only." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "It does become more clear, though, that he was certainly not always...this.  Did you notice the captain's feelings in that vision?  Strahd was once as he should have been.

It seems like the castle is full of not his minions, but his sins, those who joined him in them, and his memories.  There are tales of warning, fables, about the gods punishing those who have offended them by trapping them in their own particular prisons or hells suited to their nature.  We may have stepped into such a place.  Then again, it also has things like the nascent vampires we fought in the chapel, so the parallel to the stories isn't perfect.  
 

Yikkol is visibly uncomfortable with the line of thought Rue and Herbert are promoting.

"Are we in a morality play? A fairy tale to scare children? This is too abstract for my taste. Your holiness, Rue—you're making it sound like this castle is a metaphor."

She stares at the remains of Rahadin's laboratory. "Like a dream... Like I never left that alchemist's lab by the sea..."


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  Yikkol, you come from a very different land.  Do your people have such stories?"  
 

She snaps to attention when Herbert asks her a direct question.

"Yes, your holiness. In my world, the undead are those who have been stolen from their rightful fate in Heaven. The tale of King Guriptu, which I recitated a few hours ago by the crone's campfire, is the most famous.

"The undead do not just rise on their own. Whether from the efforts of a novice necromancer or the larceny of a Church priest, someone must make them.

"If the undead work the same here as back home, I wonder: Who made Strahd?"
dangelo
To the east:

 This dark passage runs for twenty feet, connecting an archway to the west with an ascending stone staircase to the east. To the north and south are four ten-foot-square alcoves cluttered with rotting cots and dirty rags. Only four alcoves, however, wouldn't serve for all those guards - These are the kingsmen quarters, special chambers for high ranking soldiers. The ceilings here are covered with yellow lichen. 


To the south:

 Dark stains cover the floor of this area. Large oak tables, scarred and beaten, lay scattered like toys about the room, their wood crushed and splintered. Replacing them are furnishings made entirely of human bones.

The walls and the twenty-foot-high vaulted ceiling are a sickly yellow color, not because of faded or timeworn plaster but because they are adorned with bones and skulls arranged in a morbidly decorative fashion, giving the room a cathedral-like quality. Four enormous mounds of bones occupy the corners of this ossuary, and garlands of skulls extend from these mounds to a chandelier of bones that hangs from the ceiling above a long table constructed of bones in the center of the room. Ten chairs made of bones and festooned with decorative skulls surround the table, resting atop which is an ornate, bowl-shaped vessel made of yet more bones.

The doors to the north and south are sheathed in bone, but the steel-banded double doors in the center of the east wall are not. Above these eastern doors is mounted the skull of a dragon. 

(Perception checks may be rolled if you advance into into the rooms)
dangelo
The fellowship had seen vampiric creatures of all sorts, but these were a whole new monstrosity. They possessed an almost humanoid body, but their arms were large, leathery wings, their ears were elongated and jutted out of their thick fur, and their faces were terribly deformed into a bat-human mix. They resembled Werebats in shape, but by no means these creatures were Lycanthropes - they were vampires, Children of Strahd, bred in large batches to be awakened in times of war. And now, these were times of war.

They counted one, two, three... Ten. Ten Children of Strahd fluttered from the ceiling in a chaotic attack as soon as most of the party had entered the Hall of Bones.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Please place your tokens anywhere inside the blue area. Once they're all placed, the Children of Strahd will go first because of that [22] on initiative.
 Here's a quick link to Owlbear. 
 
 


Let's do this 🙂
TaiLiu
Yikkol watches in horror as these bat-vampire monstrosities fly down and begin swarming the party. She readies her crossbow.

"Fates protect us..."
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori's awe at Herbert's almost casual banishing of the shadow guards is overcome with dread at the sight of the swooping Strahd-spawn. He raises his shield and hunters in tight to Herbert so that they can't surround the priest.
dangelo
 Hall of Bones
Round One 

The place smelled of curses, if that was even possible. Herbert carried the Icon of Ravenloft with the conviction of his faith, but this time, for unknown reasons, the power of the artifact didn't seem to slow the enemies down at all. The Children of Strahd were regular undead raised by the dozens - they weren't supposed to be powerful enough to resist the power of the Icon. Still, they did.

[Religion DC 20 to understand what's going on]

-

Child of Strahd 1 multiattacks  Herbert 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 23 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 6 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 8 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 2 multiattacks  Herbert 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 7 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 11 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 3 multiattacks  Herbert 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 7 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 9 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.

-

Child of Strahd 4 multiattacks  Bori 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 6 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 9 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 5 multiattacks  Bori 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 7 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 9 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 6 multiattacks  Bori 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 8 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 8 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.

-

Child of Strahd 7 multiattacks  Yikkol 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 2 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 26 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 8 multiattacks  Yikkol 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 12 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 25 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 9 multiattacks  Yikkol 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 8 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 24 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 9 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 10 multiattacks  Yikkol 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 2 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing damage.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 62/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert utters the name of one of Pelor's archangels, and light flares around him.
 
 Spoiler 

14 damage to Herbert, HAM makes it 11.
Word of Radiance,  (2d6)[ 8 ]  radiant damage, Dex DC 16 negates. First one to fail a save takes  (1d8)[ 2 ]  bonus damage from Blessed Strikes
CS1  (1d20)[ 19 ] +mods
CS2  (1d20)[ 4 ] +mods
CS3  (1d20)[ 5 ] +mods
CS4  (1d20)[ 9 ] +mods
CS8  (1d20)[ 7 ] +mods
CS9  (1d20)[ 17 ] +mods
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol performs a one-handed backflip to get away from the bat-like vampires—but not before four of them descend on her with their teeth and claws. She sustains several wounds, some of which look infected with negative energy.

 
 Reaction to use Uncanny Dodge, halving the damage from one attack. 
 Cunning Action to Disengage. Move back into the previous room. 
 
Then she aims her crossbow at the center mass of one of her assailants.

 
 Target: ChS 8. 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 29 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 9 ]  and  (5d6)[ 15 ]  magical piercing. 
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol's bolt flies true! Critical hit. She does an additional  (1d10)[ 8 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 22 ]  damage.

Total: 54 magical piercing damage.

EDIT: Actually, cuz of the crit rules, it's 64 damage.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "How nicely you've all bundled together...."   Zinro chuckled out loud. He then began weaving arcane magic through his arm and chanting mystical words. He pointed and a small orange bead flew out from his outstretched finger. Through the melee of combat, the bead passed by Bori and Herbert, and then blossomed into a huge fireball. As it exploded, Zinro curved the magic around Bori and Herbert: keeping them in the eye of this firestorm.

Once the explosion had subsided, Zinro retreated back behind the tanky form of Asha.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Fireball at 5th Level. 20ft Radius, so I will easily be able to catch all the enemies in the blast. Bori and Herbert would be caught too, but I will Sculpt Spell to keep them completely safe.

DC 16 Dex Save for Half Damage. Damage is  (10D6+4)[ 42 ]  Fire Damage (+4 from Empowered Evocation).

CS1:  (1d20)[ 9 ]  + Mods
CS2:  (1d20)[ 17 ]  + Mods
CS3:  (1d20)[ 7 ]  + Mods
CS4:  (1d20)[ 11 ]  + Mods
CS5:  (1d20)[ 9 ]  + Mods
CS6:  (1d20)[ 12 ]  + Mods
CS7:  (1d20)[ 8 ]  + Mods
CS8:  (1d20)[ 4 ]  + Mods
CS9:  (1d20)[ 7 ]  + Mods
CS10:  (1d20)[ 9 ]  + Mods

After the Fireball, Zinro will move back behind Asha, attracting an AOO from CS7, if it's still alive. I believe I have total cover from CS10, based on where the door is, but if you want to rule it also can attack me then I'd take an AOO from them too.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Frantically fending off claws and teeth two strikes get through to eound the halfling warrior. A great hissing sound erupts from his scowling mask and Nethis's glowing jaws lunge outwards in all directions, catching the vampires around Bori.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Word of Radiance, DC 16 Dex save or  (2d6)[ 6 ]  radiant damage.

Child 3  (1d20)[ 16 ] 
Child 4  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
Child 5  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
Child 6  (1d20)[ 1 ] 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha and the others put down the remaining shades after Herbert annihilates the group of them with his holy power. They are each struck by the same vision; a memory the castle has of Strahd's transformation and betrayal.

The others begin to muse, but Asha tries not to let himself be distracted by it,   We know what we have to do, collect the items and fight Strahd in his throne room. Everything else,   he looks around at the wreckage and fading shadows,   is incidental.  

He moves forward cautiously, and the next room has a cloying presence to it that makes the bionoid armor strengthen reflexively. Suddenly, Strahd's vampire spawn descend from the ceiling above and swarm the fellowship with deadly precision.   This chamber is cursed, desecrated!   shouts Asha,   The Icon is active, but these creatures are empowered in this room!  

He moves toward the back and lines up the children of Strahd before an arc of lightning builds up between the palms of his hands and shoots out in a line through all four of the children before him.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 

  Move   - 15ft to relay information, 15ft to move
  Action   - Cast Lightning Bolt, targeting all Children of Strahd in the line
Damage -   Lightning  - (8d6)[ 30 ] 
DC = 17
Dex Saves (w/o modifiers)
ChS 5  (1d20)[ 7 ] 
ChS 4  (1d20)[ 2 ] 
ChS 3  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
ChS 1  (1d20)[ 18 ] 
 
dangelo
 Resolving round one 
 Hall of Bones
Round Two 

Children of Strahd  3 ,  4  and  5  suffer heavy damage from both the fireball and the lightning bolt and die.  8  is head-shot by Yikkol.  1  has exactly 1 HP left.

Child of Strahd  9  triggers an Opportunity Attack from Herbert. Child of Strahd  9  and  10  trigger Opportunity Attacks from Yikkol.

 9 ,  7  and  10  follow Lord Zinro out of the room and position themselves outside the area of effect of the Icon.

-

Child of Strahd 1 multiattacks  Herbert 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing plus [roll](2d6)[/roll] necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 2 multiattacks  Herbert 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing plus [roll](2d6)[/roll] necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.

-

Child of Strahd 6 multiattacks  Bori 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 10 ]  piercing plus [roll](2d6)[/roll] necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 22 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing damage.

-

Child of Strahd 7 multiattacks  Lord Zinro 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 12 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 10 ]  piercing plus [roll](2d6)[/roll] necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 7 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 9 multiattacks  Lord Zinro 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 10 ]  piercing plus [roll](2d6)[/roll] necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 10 multiattacks  Lord Zinro 
Bite  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing plus [roll](2d6)[/roll] necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   This chamber is cursed, desecrated!   shouts Asha,   The Icon is active, but these creatures are empowered in this room!   
 

"Is there any way to clear the chamber of its curse?" Yikkol asked. She tries to sock vampire-bat #10 in the neck as she does so.

 
 Opportunity Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  against #10. 
 Damage:  (5d6+1)[ 11 ]  bludgeoning. 
 
As it moves pass her, she aims her crossbow at it. If it's still alive, she uncorks a vial of holy water with her teeth and tosses it at the vampire-bat. If not, she aims the vial of holy water at vampire-bat #9 instead.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  against #10. 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 9 ]  and  (5d6)[ 24 ]  magical piercing. 
 Bonus Attack (Cunning Action):  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  against #10 or #9. 
 Holy Water Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 8 ]  radiant. 
 

EDIT: Another crit! 73 damage against #10. 😎
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the fiends clawed and bit at Zinro he gasped in pain. Drow blood leaked from a dozen different cuts and he felt weak. Annoyingly, many of them had followed him out of the Hall and into the antechamber. With little room to escape in sight, Zinro did the only thing he could think to do in this situation. Summoning his arcane power, he uttered magical words and suddenly disappeared from existence. With his location hidden, Zinro moved back into the Hall of Bones, hoping that Strahd's children would not think to look for him there.

 
 Spoiler 
Zinro is bloodied.
Main Action to cast Greater Invisibility at 4th Level.
Since I am no longer seen, I do not attract AOOs when I move away from the 3 enemies engaged with me. Move Action to move into the corner of the Hall of Bones.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Gritting his teeth at the repeated claws, Bori switches from magic to broken steel. He slashes at creature next to him. If it falls, he runs back to assist Zinro, inly to find the mage gone! Sighing inwardly, he makes do with shielding Yikkol from them.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Rolling healing from Yikkol which was discussed after the fight with the dusk elf but not rolled.
 (1d6+14)[ 20 ] 

Bori has taken 22 damage this fight.

Attacks against ChS6
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 19 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 

If it dies he'll move over towards Yikkol.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 62/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "Good, good, see how they fall!"   Herbert encourages his allies as they swiftly slay the creatures.  He swings his mace at one as it passes, and then flares with holy light again.
 
 Spoiler 

OA against CS9  (1d20+8)[ 15 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  magic bludgeoning

Word of Radiance against CS1 &amp; CS2,  (2d6)[ 6 ]  radiant damage, bonus  (1d8)[ 5 ]  to one of them...if I get to pick, whichever one looks more damaged.  Dex DC 16 negates.
CS1 Dex  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
CS2 Dex  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha can't see where Zinro made off to, but he knows both Zinro and Yikkol were savaged by the children of Strahd, and three of them just left the room after Zinro. Herbert and Bori continue the attack against the remaining children in the room. Once the spawn in front of him is down, Asha rushes out to defend Zinro and Yikkol.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
If CoS6 is still standing, Asha will use his Action to attack CoS6. If Bori killed it, Asha will move beside Yikkol (as far as he can go) and cast Sacred Flame against CoS9.

 
 Spoiler: CoS6 
CoS6
  Action   - Attack with Thunder Gaunlets
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 15 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 31 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 
  Hit Effect   - CoS6 has Disadvantage to hit anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn.

If CoS6 dies, move to the square directly to the right of Yikkol.
 

 
 Spoiler: CoS9 
CoS9
  Move   - Move to the square directly to the right of Yikkol.
  Action   - Cast Sacred Flame vs CoS9
Dex Save vs DC 17 -  (1d20)[ 3 ]  + mods
 

 
dangelo
 
 Spoiler: Resolving Round Two 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Resolving round two

Yikkol
Child of Strahd 10 is killed by the crossbow attack
Child of Strahd 9 takes 8 damage from the holy water (50 taken total)

Zinro

Bori
Child of Strahd 6 takes 14 damage
Child of Strahd 6 takes 14 damage (55 taken total)

Herbert
Child of Strahd 9 takes 7 damage from OA  (49 taken total)

Child of Strahd 1 negates Word of Radiance
Child of Strahd 2 takes 6+8=14 damage from Word of Radiance (43 taken total)

Asha
Child of Strahd 6 is killed by Thunder Gauntlets 
 
 

 Hall of Bones
Round Three 

Child of Strahd 1 multiattacks Bori

Bite  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 25 ]  (Disadvantage) for  (1d6+4)[ 10 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 11 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 2 multiattacks Bori

Bite  (1d20+6)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  (Disadvantage) for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 12 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing damage.

-

Child of Strahd 7 multiattacks Yikkol

Bite  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 10 ]  (Disadvantage) for  (1d6+4)[ 7 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 9 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 10 multiattacks Yikkol

Bite  (1d20+6)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 23 ]  (Disadvantage) for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing plus  (2d6)[ 6 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  piercing damage.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Now fully invisible and free of being clawed and bitten to death, Zinro rushed across width of the Hall and past the open door to the antechamber. As he ran past, he hurled a Bolt of Fire at the weakest looking creature attacking Yikkol - in the hopes of dispatching it - before completing his dash across the Hall.

 
 Spoiler 
Moving from left side of the Hall to the right, stopping at the doorway to cast Fire Bolt cantrip at CS9 before continuing. Greater Invisibility means I stay invisible. Advantage from being hidden vs CS9.
Fire Bolt:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 12 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 8 ]  Fire Damage.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 62/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Pelor's light flares yet again.
 
 Spoiler 

 (2d6)[ 7 ]  radiant, +  (1d8)[ 6 ]  to CS2 if it hits.  CS1 is at 1hp.  Dex DC 16 negates
CS1 Dex  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
CS2 Dex  (1d20)[ 2 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Seeing Asha leap to Yikkol's defence, Bori switches targets.  He slides past Herbert's attackers, taking them from the opposite side

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Attack vs CS1  (1d20+11)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 

Attack vs CS 2  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol ducks and dodges the inevitable counterattacks before she draws her sword and attempts to stab bat-vampire #7 right in the heart.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 27 ] , whichever is higher. 
 Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 7 ]  and  (5d6)[ 15 ]  magical piercing damage. 
 

EDIT: 22 total damage. ⚔️
TaiLiu
As the last monster falls, Yikkol uses its hide to wipe the blood off her sword before sheathing it. She looks around.

"Has another seen Zinro? And Rue? They seem to have gone missing."
dangelo
The Hall of Bones was finally quiet again. Ten human-bat-monsters lay dead on the floor, their rotten blood running through the gaps between the bones and skulls that covered the walls. As the vampiric creatures they were, their flesh immediately started turning into ash.

There were three ways out of that room:

1. To the north, the way the fellowship came. Unexplored paths: A staircase to the east of the memory-battle room and a door in the Brazier Room.

2. To the east, double doors open to a large corridor with several other doors leading out of it. Those with darkvision can see a storage area at the end of the corridor, filled with huge wine casks.

3. To the south, a narrow hallway lead to the barracks. Two doors.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro remained invisible for a few moments longer, casting Prestidigitation and Mending to clean and repair his clothing from the scratches, bite marks, and blood. Once they were gone, he suddenly reappeared and rejoined the party nonchalantly.

  "I used my arcane arts to turn invisible and escape those horrible creatures; but not before they managed to land some serious blows against me. I am in desperate need of healing magic, and my energy available to cast spells is rapidly running out. I haven't seen or heard from Rue though, which is concerning."  
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 62/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

"I'm glad you made it out.  Perhaps stick a bit closer next time?  If you don't mind a moment of sunlight..."  Herbert casts a spell, his holy symbol flaring with bright light as he touches it to Zinro, whose wounds close some.
 
 Spoiler 

 (3d8+9)[ 18 ]  healing to Zinro
This heals Herbert 5 (62-&gt;67).
 
dangelo
East:
 This hall stands in deadly silence. Heavy beams support a sagging, ten-foot-high ceiling. Fog clings to the floor, lightly obscuring everything that lies less than three feet above it. Several doorways lead away from this main hall. A storage room containing wine casks lies at the end of the hallway. 

South:
 This ten-foot-wide arched corridor is cold and moist. The cold seems to emanate from an open archway in the west wall. Further down the corridor there's another open archway to the east wall. 
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
dangelo
The narrow corridor to the south had only two exits: One doorway, to the west, lead to what seems to be the soldiers' living quarters. The other, to the east, lead to a spiral staircase that only climbed upwards.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro grimaced at the bright light, but if this was the only source of healing to be had then he reluctantly accepted it. Once the light had faded, everyone could see that despite the divine healing energies, Zinro was still bloodied: clearly his wounds were severe.

  "Much as I dislike the light, I feel I could use another one of your healing spells, priest."   He said.

He considered where to head next.

  "Perhaps the closest door to us? What could be the soldier's quarters? It would not be wise to leave unopened doors behind us, as much as possible."  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "I used my arcane arts to turn invisible and escape those horrible creatures; but not before they managed to land some serious blows against me. I am in desperate need of healing magic, and my energy available to cast spells is rapidly running out. I haven't seen or heard from Rue though, which is concerning."   
 

Yikkol agrees. “Perhaps one of these beasts carried her off in the heat of combat… Let’s be on the lookout for her while we travel.”


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The narrow corridor to the south had only two exits: One doorway, to the west, lead to what seems to be the soldiers' living quarters. The other, to the east, lead to a spiral staircase that only climbed upwards. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Much as I dislike the light, I feel I could use another one of your healing spells, priest."   He said. 
 

Yikkol trusts a small vial of healing salve into the drow’s hands. When applied, Zinro will recover 1d6+14 hit points.

“Don’t bother his holiness with such things. His gift should be preserved for destroying Strahd.”


 He considered where to head next.

  "Perhaps the closest door to us? What could be the soldier's quarters? It would not be wise to leave unopened doors behind us, as much as possible."   

“Yes, let’s check out the quarters… Unless his holiness prefers to investigate elsewhere, of course.”
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Yikkol trusts a small vial of healing salve into the drow’s hands. When applied, Zinro will recover 1d6+14 hit points.

“Don’t bother his holiness with such things. His gift should be preserved for destroying Strahd.” 
 

Zinro scrunched his nose at the Half-Orc's impudence, but uncorked the vial nevertheless and began to apply it to his cuts and bruises.

 (1d6+14)[ 18 ] 

Almost all the cuts and bruises were now gone, with only a couple spots of minor bruising left. He considered for a moment that he hadn't checked the vial's authenticity before applying it. For all he knew, it could have been poison. He was lucky that it was indeed a healing salve. Zinro wasn't sure what to make of his lax attentiveness. Battle fatigue? Or maybe he was beginning to trust his companions? Zinro didn't like either thought.
dangelo
Through the doorway to the west, you find the Guards' Quarters:
Sickly, yellow lichen covers the ceiling of this cold, damp, ten-foot-wide passage running east and west. Opening off both sides of this passage are ten-foot-square alcoves that contain rotting cots, rags, and whatever remains of the belongings of those who one day served as castle guards. A deathly silence fills the hall.

There's nothing of interest here.

To the east, you find a narrow staircase that spirals upwards. It brings you to the floor immediately above you, and you realize you're at ground level now. A long, narrow corridor juts into the staircase, running east to west. Cobwebs fill the hall, obstructing sight beyond a few feet. On the wall to your left, you notice several arrow slits evenly spaced, and the Valley of Barovia can be seen through them. Heavy rain continues to fall.

The staircase continues to rise, leading into higher sections of the castle.

You advance cautiously through the corridor and reach the turret post, a thirty-foot-wide octagonal room capped by a high, domed ceiling. Frescoes faded with age adorn the ceiling, but their images are impossible to make out. Arrow slits look out over the courtyard.

Leaning against one of the arrow slits, you find a few things of interest:

- A longbow and a quiver with twelve arrows. One magic aura emanates from each of them.

- A religious symbol of no magical power. It was carried by someone of incredible faith, who went through horrible experiences while clinging to it. You can almost feel the sadness and desperation when you hold the symbol, like its owner did centuries ago - But under all that darkness lives a small seed of hope.

An extremely narrow doorway led into a tiny armory. Instead of the weapons and ammunition that would normally occupy this storage room, several mirrors of various sizes were piled here. Some are as tall as a person, others small enough to fit in a backpack. It seems like the lord of castle had all the mirrors in the castle hidden in this forgotten part of the keep. A thick layer of dust and an entire ecosystem of spiderwebs covered the mirrors.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro did his best to keep away from the arrow slits. There was virtually no chance of him falling through them, of course, but even just the sight of the valley set his stomach on a lurch.

  "These arrows each have a magical aura. Perhaps they all have the same enchantment upon them, or perhaps they're all different. I could spend time Identifying them, if we wished. But to Identify them all would take hours. I guess the only way forward is to return to the Hall of Bones area and press southward?"  
TaiLiu
"How strange," Yikkol murmurs. Why would Strahd hide all the mirrors in here? Unless...

"Zinro, are any of these magical? Perhaps a woman of great beauty is hidden here. The second treasure."

Yikkol begins to looking through the mirrors with interest. Her bloodstained hands meld with the dust to become a deep crimson.

 
 If wanted: 
 Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 11 ] . 
 Investigation:  (1d20+5)[ 9 ] . 
 

EDIT: Some consequences of having rolled two 20's previously. 😛
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 67/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert examines the holy symbol, and likely takes it.  Who is it a symbol of?  Can he recognize it?  How can the spark of hope be lit?

 "Why would he hide away all the mirrors?  I think I've heard of vampires not being visible in them..." 
 
 Spoiler 

Religion - holy symbol  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Religion - mirrors  (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
Insight - why does he not like mirrors?  (1d20+8)[ 21 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "If you want, I can spend some time to ritual cast a spell that will allow me to pick up magical auras. I suspect that Strahd merely doesn't like to be reminded how he looks; given his previous outbursts. I am sure more than a handful of mirrors were smashed before he calmed down and simply removed the others."  

Zinro looks on painfully as Yikkol tries to dust off the cobwebs from the mirrors, no doubt destroying many spider's homes in the process. He silently hoped Lolth wouldn't punish them for such a crime against the arachnids. Instead, he decided to busy himself with the ritual.

 
 Spoiler 
Zinro will stand somewhere central and Ritual Cast Detect Magic.
 
dangelo
Entire spider-families abandoned their nests as Yikkol removed the mirrors and inspected them one by one. Indeed, by scanning their frames, it was clear that each had been removed from a different room of the castle, and a long time ago.

Meanwhile, when Zinro meditated and and expanded his conscience to touch the very essence of magic around him - like a bat who squeaks into the night so the sound waves will echo back to his sharp ears, giving him the perfect vision of his surroundings - he not only found that the mirrors were mundane, but also noticed an otherwise nondescript magic in that storage room: a faint spell spread over the eastern wall. A simple trick from the First Circle of Spells, learned by novice apprentices in the School of Illusion. As soon as the fellowship was aware of the illusion, it was broken, and they saw an open doorway leading out into a secret passage...

...Except the way was blocked by a solid wooden object. It was like the back door of Rahadin's office, where the back of the wardrobe was much larger than the secret doorway, and covered it entirely like a wall. This blockade, however, was  much  heavier than Rahadin's wardrobe: Even with their combined strength, the fellowship was unable to move it out of the way. It seemed like this passage had to be opened from the other side.

Herbert:
The spark of hope can only be lit by your own heart. Herbert wished there was some sort of supernatural power he could draw from the holy symbol, but it is only a mere trinket from the past. The symbol is similar to the Morninglord from the chapel, but it seems... older. Possibly centuries older.

While vampires are famous for not casting a reflection, Herbert wonders if there is something else to this tale. Perhaps they have a personal problem with their absence of reflection; Perhaps Strahd is extremely vain and proud, and hates that cannot admire his own face again. Herbert isn't exactly sure, but it is clear that having mirrors around deeply displeased Count Strahd. As an additional note, Herbert observed how the vampire didn't break the mirrors in a rampage: he had them carefully carried away by servants, as if he respected or feared what was in those mirrors.
TaiLiu
As her search continues to bear no fruit, Yikkol becomes more dusty and more aggravated. Carefully moving the mirrors becomes shoving them aside becomes throwing them across the room in a silent rage. She probably breaks a few. Sweat drips down her face.

"No Tempter," she says with obvious disappointment.

The hidden passageway and the heavy wooden panel were a curiosity. Who would need to be able to access a room full of dusty mirrors? Probably not Strahd—these mirrors were untouched. But then why the secret door?

She turns to the party: "It's wood, isn't it? We can't move it, but couldn't we just burn it down? Or hack it apart? Anything Strahd doesn't want us to access is something we should."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 She turns to the party: "It's wood, isn't it? We can't move it, but couldn't we just burn it down? Or hack it apart? Anything Strahd doesn't want us to access is something we should." 
 

Zinro grimaced as Yikkol threw the mirrors; making an ungodly racket.   "Remember that the passageway leads into this room; so I can only surmise that the other side is a normal room or a corridor. Perhaps it's a small room that connects to the teleporting brazier - allowing travellers to step out into this room in relative freedom."  
dangelo
As expected, axing down the wooden wall was a rather quick task to execute, but made a good deal of noise. Less than a minute after they started hacking, the squeaking and fluttering of the Children of Strahd echoed through the archers' post; The creatures came flapping down the spiral staircase and glided into the hallway in a fury of claws and fangs. Not an entire pack like in the Hall of Bones, just a light patrol that wandered around the castle.

 Turret Post Access Hall 
 Round One 
 Owlbear 
 
 Spoiler: Initiative 
ChS 1  (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
ChS 2  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 

Herbert  (1d20-1)[ 18 ] 
Yikkol  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Zinro  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
Bori  (1d20+5)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 19 ]  (Sentinel Shield)
Asha  (1d20+2)[ 9 ]  or  (1d20+2)[ 8 ]  (Helm of Awareness)
 

 
 Spoiler: Battlemap 
 
 

 At end of the enemy's turn,  there's a 16.6% chance (6 on a d6) that an additional patrol of Children of Strahd will be alerted and start heading your way. This will stop once the battlefield is clear -- However, patrols that are already en route will continue to arrive and may potentially alert further patrols next round, and so on and so on. Each patrol is made of 1-2 Children of Strahd.

 At least 2 Player Characters  must start within the blue square (Whoever was busy breaking through the wall.) The rest can place your tokens wherever you want. Neither side will be surprised.

Hacking down the wall will take a few minutes, so you're expected to stop doing that to deal with the fight for a bit. No dice will be necessary.
TaiLiu
Yikkol cusses. She puts down her crowbar and unslings the crossbow off her back. She prepares to shoot when they come into view.

 
 Ready an action to shoot when a foe comes into view. 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 11 ]  and maybe  (5d6)[ 16 ]  magical piercing. 
 

EDIT: Either 11 or 27 damage, depending on if Yikkol gets SA or not.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro moved up to the wooden wall and took out the Mace of Terror. He wasn't used to swinging such melee weapons, but did his best to begin hacking down at the wall, leaving the others free to blockade the corridor.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 67/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "More creatures."   Herbert frowns and takes up a blocking position, his shield ready.  He prepares to smite the first enemy around the corner with holy flame.
 
 Spoiler 

Whoever rounds the corner first, Sacred Flame  (3d8)[ 13 ]  radiant damage, Dex DC 16 negates.
CS?? Dex  (1d20)[ 6 ]  plus mods
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Having been lost in thought clutching his mask as they wandered the corridors, Bori wad eager to work off bottled up snd uncharacteristi
 aggression on the blocked doorway. It helps very little and his mounting stress levels meet his rage in equal measure.

More of these Fury cursed things! You  won't get by me so easily this time!

He peels off from the doorway and positions himself next to Yikkol,  making access to the others more difficult. He grips the broken blade tightly, ready ti plunge it into the first creature that come within range.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move from the blue box to current position.
Ready action to attack
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 15 ] 
Will smite on a crit
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha moves up and takes a defensive stance, ready to receive the incoming enemy attacks.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 

Move forward and take the Dodge action.
 
dangelo
Resolving round one: Child of Strahd 1 takes 55 damage total (+11+16 from Yikkol, +13 from Herbet, +15 from Bori). It has 3 HP left.

 Hall of Bones
Round Two 

Child of Strahd 1 (3 HP) multiattacks Asha

Bite  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  (Disadvantage) for [roll] 1d6+4[/roll] piercing plus  (2d6)[ 6 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 24 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing damage.

Child of Strahd 2 multiattacks Asha

Bite  (1d20+6)[ 8 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 8 ]  (Disadvantage) for [roll] 1d6+4[/roll] piercing plus  (2d6)[ 5 ]  necrotic damage.
Claw  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  piercing damage.

-

Alert other patrols?  (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro paused hitting the wooden wall briefly to fling a Fire Bolt at the weakened enemy.

 
 Spoiler 
Action to cast Cantrip Fire Bolt at CS1. Ranged Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 13 ]  Fire Damage
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 67/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

One falls.  Herbert targets the other with more flame.  The creatures are bad, but are just animalistic servants of their true foe.  Perhaps they should have fought him when they first met...but no, he is powerful and the group must prepare.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred Flame  (2d6)[ 5 ] + (1d8)[ 5 ]  radiant, Dex DC 16 negates
CS2 Dex  (1d20)[ 12 ] +mods
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol shoots at the second child of Strahd.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 25 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 12 ]  and  (5d6)[ 20 ]  magical piercing. 
 

EDIT: 32 damage.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Rolling between Asha's legs to get at the children, Bori comes up fighting. His blade strikes at the less wounded creature, attempting to hamstring it.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
 
dangelo
One by one, the Children of Strahd were put down, and Castle Ravenloft fell into silence once again. The echoes of their screams died off as their blood filled their throats, and their bodies collapsed into ashes shortly after being destroyed. The fellowship exchanged a cautious look, assessing for damage, but it seemed like this one had been a clean fight. Once it was clear that no more creatures were coming, they resumed the task.

The wooden wall revealed itself to be the back of a hollow object, more specifically a huge church organ. After hacking it into pieces, destroying the beautiful instrument forever, the fellowship found themselves in the dinner room! Right where they had faced Strahd for the first time. The dishes had been cleaned up by servants - instead of the feast they had seen here last time, a simple bowl of fruit decorated the large wooden table.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 67/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "Well... that was not worthwhile.  I don't think the organ was enchanted or anything." 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Well... that was not worthwhile.  I don't think the organ was enchanted or anything."  
 

Yikkol burns with shame and embarrassment. And a bit of fear that the priest would punish her.

“Perhaps… Perhaps this was a useful shortcut, your holiness,” she says nervously. “Now we’ve an easier way to get back to the teleportation chamber.

“Where to next, your righteousness? I won’t make any dumb suggestions again, I promise.”
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

It was a shame they had destroyed such a magnificent instrument, but necessity had demanded it. On the bright side, they now had an extremely useful shortcut open to them, and they were in a good position to return to the village if they wanted to take a longer rest.

  "No doubt more of the castle will be destroyed before our task is done. It is simply collateral damage."  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha steps through the ruined organ and looks around,   Alright, useful to know we can loop around. But this room is too wide open. We should keep moving, maybe head to the upper levels?  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Nori sheepishly times a pile of scattered sheet music. With everything that happened he almost had to suppress a laugh. If he started though, he wasn't sure he'd be able to stop. He took some deep breahs, clutched the mask, reached for that comforting reptilian cold-bloodedness he could feel from Nethis. She wouldn't lose it like he almost had.

 The upper levels sounds good. A fair distance from here. Then maybe we can take a break? I can't help feeling there's more to this blade .
TaiLiu
“Good idea, Bori,” Yikkol said. She offers to lead the way.
dangelo
  

shuffle 
"Destiny is a funny thing. Sometimes, its path is clear as day, like a cobbled road winding through the countryside. Sometimes, it looks more like hunting trails in the woods, splitting up and rejoining in a network of singular paths."

 shuffle 
"When a river forks, not to join another, but to split itself in two, ye start to wonder: which's the root, and which's the branch? Can both be the same river, or have we now three different currents? Time and space, kin as the faces of a single coin... it all flows strangely in the Land of Barovia. In the Land of Mists. Still, some things are bound to happen."

 shuffle 
The fourth card was placed above the other three, forming a triangle. It showed the image of a horrible fiend, long claws and more teeth than one could count. "I see The Beast in his own lair. When ye wish to face the Devil, look for his dark throne."

* * *

 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. A Grand Staircase on the north wall lead down to the Entrance Hall.

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... 

...Until it slowly turned around, revealing the incredibly tall figure of Strahd von Zarovich. He had his fingers interlaced in front of his mouth and a sharp look in his eyes. While in the Dinner Room his tone had been cocky and amused, now there was a bubbling rage building up inside him. It burned behind his dark, empty eyes.

"You have killed my Chamberlain... Decimated my children... Destroyed my belongings... And now you have the audacity to come straight to my Throne Room." He shook his head slightly. "It is time for this nonsense to stop. I shall destroy you right here, and put your souls in shackles for the rest of eternity. You will serve Castle Ravenloft, and protect this sanctum against any other fools who dare to assault it."

The Devil Strahd reached for his sword. It was a nobleman's weapon, forged out of the purest steel there was, and enchanted by several mages he had captured and enslaved throughout his existence. "Surrender now, and I'll kill you fast. Resist, and I shall torture your souls forever. This is your last chance."
TaiLiu
“Strahd, go shove your head in a church,” Yikkol said. “You killed my mother. We ain’t surrendering.”

She reaches for her crossbow and steadies her voice, but the slight quiver in her words makes it clear this encounter was unexpected.

Strahd! Strahd, here, after only one treasure. Not even fully attuned. But from years of adventuring, she knew—expect the unexpected. She readies herself for combat.

From the corner of her eye she watches Herbert, hoping the priest conjures up a miracle.
dangelo
 Audience Hall
Round One 
 Strahd didn't bother with Yikkol. He pointed his finger at the fellowship, more specifically at Asha, and said in a low, rattling voice:  "OBEY."  His eyes glowed brighter, crimson red and evil. A split second afterwards, the Elf could feel the cold grip of Strahd's powers spreading over his body like a shiver, and controlling him against his will. Strahd's finger moved from Asha to Herbert.  "TAKE. ICON." ,

And just like that, Asha instantly threw himself at Herbert and tried to take the Icon of Ravenloft away from him.

Athletics  (1d20+5)[ 10 ]  

Strahd opened his arms, throwing his cloak out of his shoulders and unleashing a loud battle cry. His muscles swelled up and bulged, rippling underneath his skin, bursting out and growing and deforming his shape into a different one. His skull elongated into a fearful, gaping maw, teeth as sharp as knives; Huge bat-like wings sprouted from his back; His feet grew into paws with claws, and his hair became a mane of black trailing along his back. He opened his wings and cried again.

   
TaiLiu
"Your holiness!" Yikkol bravely steps up in front of the priest, her body quivering all the while. She expected to fight Strahd as a vampire, not as this... bat-like monstrosity.

She reaches into her breast pocket and pulls out two objects wrapped in thin cloth. The first is a vial of holy water, which she hurls it at Strahd, aiming for his eyes.

 
 Bonus Action (Fast Hands) to attack:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 15 ]  radiant. 
 
The second is a hollow red corundum, which she stole from a bone shaman she slaughtered. She crushes it between her hands and the mote of elemental energy within alights. The cloth around it catches fire and crumbles away to nothing, scattering throughout the room.

A moment later, a few dozen feet away, the ashes reconstitute themselves and a blazing fire elemental springs from its embers.

 
 Action to activate her Elemental Gem, Red Corundum: 
 DMG, page 167: This gem contains a mote of elemental energy. When you use an action to break the gem, a  fire elemental  is summoned as if you had cast the  conjure elemental spell , and the gem's magic is lost. 
 
In breathless Ignan, Yikkol orders it to: "Burn, burn, burn the monster!"

The fire elemental obeys, throwing its body against Strahd's.

 
 Two Attacks:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  and  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6+3)[ 10 ]  and  (2d6+3)[ 10 ]  fire, respectively. 
 If either attack hits, Strahd ignites. MM, page 125: Until a creature takes an action to douse the fire, the target takes  (1d10)[ 5 ]  fire damage at the start of each of its turns. 
 
As the fire elemental grabs Strahd's attention, Yikkol turns to Herbert.

"Your righteousness! What are your orders?"


EDIT: 15 radiant and 10 fire damage. 25 total this turn.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Enlarged, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: Enlarge/Reduce  
 
  
Asha takes a step back as the monstrous bat-Strahd charges forward toward him. He puts a protective hand out,   Stay close to Bori and Herbert!   Then he turns back to the monster,   Strahd, you hedonist fool! We can return and give you the greatest challenge you've ever faced in your miserable existence. Did you really lead us here only to end the game so quickly? Are you that afraid that we will end you once and for all that you must finish this now?  

Taking no chances, Asha triggers a contingency in the bionoid armor. The others can hear a straining and cracking noise as the armor begins to stretch and grow. Asha suddenly reaches 10ft in height, not as tall as the bat-monster, but large enough to engage it in melee.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 

  Move Action   - Speak to Strahd about his failure as a host.
  Action   - Cast Enlarge/Reduce, targeting Asha and selecting the Enlarge option.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 67/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert is surprised to see Strahd so suddenly.  They had hoped for more time... yet here he is.  The fiend transforms and advances.   "We had hoped for more time, but now is the time to stand and fight him!  Remember the traits of other vampires like we discussed earlier - but expect more from him.  May Pelor's guidance light our path!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Bless, 3rd level slot, affecting all 5 party members
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was torn. Everything about this encounter had his brain screaming at him and the party to retreat, rest, and attempt to rearm themselves with the treasures of Ravenloft. And yet the party were determined to stay, especially with Strahd's new war-form on display. Perhaps something about Barovia was affecting him. It was an affect he'd have to study in more depth later, assuming he survived of course.

With spell energy dwindling, Zinro first drew the Mace of Terror; although he doubted Strahd would fear it. With the Mace drawn, Zinro focused his arcane energy. Wisps of force began to coalesce around his hand. The wisps of force quickly began to form a hand of their own and grow larger and larger, until a Large, translucent hand was floating in front of Zinro. It was no longer Zinro's hand, but Bigby's Hand.

As it formed, Zinro reached out with his own arm and the Hand obeyed. He then clenched his fist hard as the Hand hovered over to the Huge form of Strahd, hoping to grapple him, and then crush him.

 
 Spoiler 
Staying where I am.
Free Action to draw Mace of Terror.
Action to cast 5th Level Bigby's Hand. On the turn I summon it, I can direct it to move and attempt the Grasping Hand attack on Strahd. The Hand is Large, and is able to Grapple Huge or smaller creatures. Opposed grapple, using the Hand's stats:  (1d20+8)[ 28 ]  vs Strahd's opposed roll:  (1d20)[ 6 ]  + mods.
If the grapple succeeds, I use my Bonus Action to Crush Strahd for  (2d6+8)[ 17 ]  Bludgeoning Damage (extra damage from Empowered Evocation is already factored into the roll). If the grapple fails I do not use a Bonus Action.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori starts at the sight of the Devil of Ravenloft, flinching back further as the creature transforms into a snarling beast. Donning his mask, he glances ruefully at his scabbard, maybe there'd be time to learnt its secrets later.

 Beast, you can try to hide from your own monstrous nature all you like, but you can't hide it from the spirits you have wronged!
 

He reaches out a hand and a swirling mass of souls pours firth from every direction, swirling around the bat creatures and tearing at its form.

 
 Spoiler: Action 
Moonbeam centred on Strahd at the start of his turn
DC 16 Con save for  (2d10)[ 6 ]  radiant damage and revert/stuck in normal form. Half damage on a pass.

Strahd  (1d20)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20)[ 11 ] 
 
dangelo
 Audience Hall
Round Two 

Strahd revealed a new expression when Bori's magic pulled him out of his combat form: The Devil was startled. He had been watching the fellowship's progress cautiously, sending his minions to spy on them or relying on magic to scry, but he didn't imagine the Paladin would be capable of such magic. With the magic hand still onto him, he raised his arm in the air and shouted several ancient words in the Draconic language, one of the many associated with Arcane magic. A tiny flaming sphere, just the size of a walnut, appeared at his fingertip and flew straight across the Audience Hall, exploding into a massive fireball.

Fireball damage:  (10d6)[ 21 ] 

Dex saves: (DC 18)

Herbert  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
Yikkol  (1d20+12)[ 19 ]  (evasion)
Zinro  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Bori  (1d20+9)[ 29 ] 
Asha  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Bigby's Hand  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 

(everyone is within 10 ft of Bori and inside his Aura, so I added +4 from his Charisma)


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Bless:

Herbert (1d4)[3]
Yikkol (1d4)[2]
Zinro (1d4)[3]
Bori (1d4)[4]
Asha (1d4)[3] 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "We had hoped for more time, but now is the time to stand and fight him!  Remember the traits of other vampires like we discussed earlier - but expect more from him.  May Pelor's guidance light our path!"  
 

"Yes, sir!" The priest's call to combat reinvigorates the half-orc and steadies her. They could do this. Tonight, Strahd von Zarovich would die.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Strahd revealed a new expression when Bori's magic pulled him out of his combat form: The Devil was startled. He had been watching the fellowship's progress cautiously, sending his minions to spy on them or relying on magic to scry, but he didn't imagine the Paladin would be capable of such magic. With the magic hand still onto him, he raised his arm in the air and shouted several ancient words in the Draconic language, one of the many associated with Arcane magic. A tiny flaming sphere, just the size of a walnut, appeared at his fingertip and flew straight across the Audience Hall, exploding into a massive fireball. 
 

Yikkol says something in Ignan again, and the fire elemental obliges, plunging its fiery fists into Strahd's open orifices. Yikkol wants it to hurt.

 
 Attacks:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ]  and  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6+3)[ 12 ]  and  (2d6+3)[ 13 ]  fire, respectively. 
 Strahd will take  (1d10)[ 9 ]  fire damage on his turn. 
 
She hurls another vial of holy water at Strahd and follows it up with a shot from her crossbow.

 
 Bonus Attack (Fast Hands):  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 3 ] . 
 Holy Water Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 14 ]  radiant. 
 
 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 1 ] . 
 Crossbow Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 10 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 19 ]  magical piercing. 
 

EDIT: 12 fire, 14 radiant, and 29 magical piercing damage. 55 total. 9 fire damage next round. The  bless  was super helpful this round.
dangelo
Legendary Action after Yikkol's round:

 (1d20+9)[ 21 ]  Claw attack against Bigby's Hand (AC 20) for 1d8+4 physical plus  (4d6)[ 11 ]  necrotic damage.

If it hits, Strahd will not deal that 1d8+4 physical damage. Instead, he automatically Grapples the Hand. (DC 18 to escape)
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori grits his teeth and Nethis's spe tralee jaws snarl in satisfaction at Strahd's plight. As the spirits continue to tear at his form Bori pulls the small crossbow from his pack and adds a barb of spite to the damage he is inflicting.

Hand crossbow  (1d20+10)[ 26 ]  for  (1d6+6)[ 10 ]  Magical piercing damage.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Moonbeam DC 16 with disadvantage for  (2d10)[ 17 ]   radiant damage at the start of Strahd's turn. I think the locked in form thing might not require him to fail the save after failing on his first turn but I'm not sure.

Strahd Con save (1d20)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20)[ 16 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro continued to concentrate on maintaining his proxy grip on Strahd. He felt that without Bori's supportive presence, he may have let the arcana slip away from him and the Hand would have disappeared. As it was, it remained, and continued to squeeze the vampire lord.

As the Hand squeezed the Count, Zinro let fly a bolt of fire.

 
 Spoiler 
Bonus Action to control the Hand, using it to deal damage to Strahd:  (2d6+8)[ 16 ]  Bludgeoning (up to you if you want to consider this damage magical).
Main Action to cast the cantrip Fire Bolt:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 19 ]  Fire Damage.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 99/103 THP: 5/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Enlarged, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: Enlarge/Reduce  
 
  
From his new vantage point, Asha watches a silvery beam of light from Bori strike the giant bat creature and force it back into the familiar form of Count Strahd, still in the clutches of Lord Zinro's magical hand of force. Agitated, Strahd throws an explosive ball of fire at the group. A number of protective wards flash from both Bori's and Herbert's magic, protecting the group from the worst of the flames. The bionoid armor is not even pierced by the heat. Asha moves forward and punches Strahd, keeping his shield interposed between shots.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
  Move   - Move adjacent to Strahd.
  Action   - Attack Count Strahd.
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 15 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ]  Bless
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 13 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ]  Enlarge
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  +  (1d4)[ 1 ]  Bless
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 13 ]  +  (1d4)[ 4 ]  Enlarge
 
dangelo
 (1d8+4)[ 12 ]  physical damage from the last Legendary Action.

Legendary Action after Bori's round:

 (1d20+9)[ 23 ]  Claw attack against Bigby's Hand (AC 20) for  (1d8+4)[ 12 ]  physical plus [rpll]4d6[/roll] necrotic damage.

Legendary Action after Lord Zinro's round:

 (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  Claw attack against Bigby's Hand (AC 20) for  (1d8+4)[ 8 ]  physical plus [rpll]4d6[/roll] necrotic damage.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 56/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
Strahd is on the ropes, but tears furiously at the summoned hand, eventually clawing his way out.  Herbert summons Pelor's flame to burn the Count, and a hammer of judgement to smite him.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred Flame  (3d8)[ 10 ]  radiant damage, Dex DC 16 negates.
Strahd Dex  (1d20)[ 17 ]  plus mods
BA cast Spiritual Weapon
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 3 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 10 ]  Force damage.  Spiritual Weapon is behind Strahd.
 
dangelo
 "-RAAAHHHHHHHH" 

Strahd's battle cry echoed through the hallways and staircases of Castle Ravenloft. The vampire lord knew the powers of sunlight, and the pain of facing the light of dawn, and hee knew these intruders handn't found any means to produce real sunlight. Knowing that, he changed into his combat form and advanced. What a fool he had been! The beam of moonlight greeted him like an old friend, burning cold into his soul. His eyes widened. They glowed brighter than ever, pulsating with blood and rage. In a scream of rage that shook the foundations of the castle, Strahd unleashed a whirlwind of claws that just didn't seem to stop. The fellowship fought and reloaded and cast spells and Strahd continued to hack at the floating hand that squeezed him so cruelly. His scream only ended when he was free of the hand and back on his feet.

The vampire hissed and gnarled, having faced true danger under that beam of pale silver light. His adorned armor was dented in several places from the encounter with Bigby's Hand, his hair was wild and and all over his face.  "Tricksters!"  He gnarled as he launched himself out of the beam.  "Scoundrels! Miserable little things... You shall meet your end! Carrier of the Moon Light, I will make sure to torture your soul thoroughly. 

Strahd shapeshifts into a Mist and escapes through the cracks on the walls of Castle Ravenloft. In the darkness of the vaulted ceiling, another pair of red eyes flashes at the fellowship before the creature escapes through the cracks on the stone. It had been there during the whole fight, watching, waiting, the bow at hand, ready to shoot; But in the end, it was too coward to intervene.

Silence reigns in the Audience Hall, broken only by the continuous  wooshing  sound of the Fire Elemental.

 Combat over! 
TaiLiu
"Coward!" Yikkol shouts. "At least King Guriptu didn't run!"

She turns to the party. "What now? Shall we give chase? The prophecy said we'd face him in his throne room. We did. But we didn't finish the fight.

"If we take this time to rest, I can have my fire elemental follow Strahd and report his location. What do you think, your holiness?"
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The halfling stows the tiny crossbow.  I'd definitely appreciate a breather, I think I made him mad and I don't fancy facing him again on.an empty stomach.  

Even despite the threat hanging over him.there is hope in his eyes.

 That was good though, right? We actually stand a chance! 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro released a breath he hadn't realised he'd been holding, and let his arms fall to his sides. After a moment, he rehooked the Mace onto his belt.   "If he retreats further into the castle, it is likely to a place of strength and reinforcements. We should take this opportunity to return to the village: we are right by the entrance and our way is clear. From what we know of vampires, he will regenerate quickly. Have your Elemental meet us outside the castle: I can shield us with a Hut whilst we await it's return."  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 My mark allows me to make a shelter for us Zinro, you've already been working very hard and I think it's important you get a bit of rest! Let's head back and I can sort us out a nice dinner as well. 

The group makes their way carefully out of the castle back to thr vistani settlement.  Give me a few minutes to get some fresh supplies and I'll make us something nice. Something not too heavy, Herbert? Any other preferences? 

A short while later the group have full bellies and its time to turn in. Bori tenderly rests a hand on his mask, whispering.  Come on old girl, you've been gone too long.  A spectral form seems to step from the mask and an almost flesh and blood fastieth stands beside Bori once more. He hugs her and the sense of relief and comfort is palpable. With that, the marks on his arm begin to glow, forming the shape off a twee bothy with the symbol of a golden dragon stencilled above the door.  Come on in, it isn't fancy but it's very cosy. 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
 Chef's tools rolled in OOC for 16
Casts summon steed using his last 2nd level slot and uses one of his 3rd level slots for tiny hut.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro wasn't going to argue if someone else wanted to use up their spell energy. He made a dry spot on the ground using Prestidigitation and sat down inside the Hut.

Halflings tended to be famed for their cooking, so he was glad for the meal and wolfed it down hungrily. Once full and settled, he began to enter his elvish trance.

(I'll swap a few spells around and recover HP if/when our LR is successful)
dangelo
The rain was finally letting up. The night was over, and a faint, silvery morning threatened to rise beyond the mountains. The thick layer of dark clouds reduced the rays of sunlight to a pale twilight, but still it was better than the pitch black night they faced when first arriving in Barovia.

To their surprise, however, the Vistani caravan had disbanded, and Madam Eva was nowhere to be seen. The Barovian folk kept to their shady business, locked in their homes, and where Madam Eva's tent had been, there was now only the remains of a bonfire and carriage wheel marks on the ground.

Before the fellowship could draw more conclusions, they spotted a nondescript hunter's tent nested against the edge of the Svalich Woods. In front of the tent, a big pile of dead wolves had been set on fire. A young woman riding a light horse was already on her way to meet them;

"Brothers and sisters, I can't believe you made it out alive. When I heard about vampire hunters assaulting the Castle, I rode as fast as I could." She climbed off the horse. She was a Vistana, but didn't wear their traditional bright colors much more than an old, weary red jacket; Underneath, this girl wore a reinforced leather jerkin, a handaxe on her hip and a silver dagger on her belt. Small flasks of holy water hung from a leather strap, ready to be drawn and thrown at the enemy. "I am  Ezmerelda d'Avenir . My master and I have been tracking the Devil down for years, but we've parted ways temporarily. Did you happen to run into him in the Castle?"

Ezmerelda invites the fellowship to setup their hut by her tent, as she has secured the area already. As they accompany her, Yikkol notices her right leg is a prosthetic implant, and very similar to those crafted by her ancestors.

 
 Spoiler: Ezmerelda d'Avenir 
   
 


"I was told you were brought here by Madam Eva, right? So she drew you the cards?" Ezmerelda was eager to know the answer. "It seems like neither my master nor I could get a reading ourselves. Madam Eva's cards are exclusively for the poor souls Strahd brings here for his entertainment. My master believes she may only see what  he  allows."

"So, please tell me everything. What did you see in there? And what was that  scream  I just heard..."

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Ezmerelda is technically supposed to be -inside- the castle, but I decided to move her here!
 
TaiLiu
“No,” Yikkol says sharply. “Strahd didn’t bring me here. That bloodsucker has no power over me. I chose to travel here to kill home and avenge my mother.

“Who is your master? I don’t think we’re seen any other vampire hunters around here.”

The half-orc chooses to skip telling the party’s story for now. She carefully observes the woman to see if she could be trusted.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Once Zinro had awoken from his trance, he set about preparing his spells for the day. The lifeforce he felt he had lost from the day before had returned.

His first order of business was to resummon Dot. With his Familiar summoned and perched once again on his shoulder, Zinro went about Identifying the Bow and the Arrows they had collected earlier.

 
 Spoiler 
Changing some of my prepared spells. Recover my lost max HP.
Casting Find Familiar, bringing back Dot the Infernal Spider.
Ritual Cast Identify on the Bow and the Arrows
 


 


Zinro eyed the stranger cautiously.   "Tracking him? He doesn't seem to leave his castle. What was your master's name?"  

EDIT: Misunderstood the timing of the introduction: thought we had already rested before meeting her. Consider the first part of this post what Zinro's morning plans are.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 56/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

As the group leaves the castle and discusses where to go, Herbert channels some of Pelor's divine magic to heal Yikkol.  His wounds close a bit as it flows through him.

As they are approached by this supposed vampire hunter, he looks at her cautiously to determine if she is in fact truthful.   "Whoever your master is, I do not believe we met him.  We have fought several of the Count's servants, and then the Count himself, although he slipped away and eluded us." 
 
 Spoiler 

4th level Cure Wounds  (4d8+10)[ 24 ]  to Yikkol, heals Herbert 6.
Use 2nd CD to refill a 2nd level slot.

Insight  (1d20+8)[ 25 ]  to determine if Ezmerelda is genuine.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Aelki Ruasha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha maintained his enlarged form until the bionoid armor needed to return to its normal size. It didn't seem Strahd would be returning. The group decides to leave the castle and rest up, to return the next day and complete their mission.

They return to where they met the vistani woman earlier in the night, but their camp is gone. Near the edge of the woods, another vistani woman approaches them, claiming to be a vampire hunter. Asha releases the binoid armor, and stands by as the others vet her.
dangelo
The girl hesitates before answering. "My master is Rudolph van Richten. Please don't share that with anyone- The Devil doesn't know we're here."

To Herbert's words, she just cast a worried look. "He was supposed to be back by now, but it's not weird for him to disappear. Let's just wait and see, then."

To Yikkol, she just sounded pessimist. "You'd never had found the Valley, hadn't he opened the Mists for you. No one can traverse the Mists safely besides the Vistani and Strahd himself... That's how we got here, with a Vistani caravan, but under a disguise."

-------------------------------

The bow is a simple Longbow +1
The arrows are +1 and enchanted with Lightning -- they cause +1d6 at every hit, and each can only be used once
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 To Yikkol, she just sounded pessimist. "You'd never had found the Valley, hadn't he opened the Mists for you. No one can traverse the Mists safely besides the Vistani and Strahd himself... That's how we got here, with a Vistani caravan, but under a disguise." 
 

"Nonsense," Yikkol says. She seems inclined to speak harsher words, but Herbert's polite presence holds her back.

Yikkol nods as the priest talks, and adds to his account: "That frustrated scream was Strahd's—on account of our combat tactics. But in the end he managed to kidnap our compatriot and escape. I've an elemental assistant tracking his whereabouts right now.

"We plan to assault the castle again in a few hours, after we've rested and prepared ourselves. Will you join us?" Regardless of Ezmerelda's dour beliefs, she seemed a capable fighter, and they were down one combatant.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori is almost overcome with delight at finding a another friendly face.  Thank you for the pitch. Please join us for dinner!
 

He looks sombre at her questions about her mentor.  I'm afraid we didn't see him there, I'd worry about anyone in there alone, it was so dangerous there with all of us...we'll look for him when we go back inside. You could even come with us!  He looks expectantly at the others.
J-H
 Herbert 

Satisfied that Ezmerelda seems to be telling the truth, Herbert lays out the basics of their trip into the castle, and their encounter with Strahd, spending particular time on the vampire spawn, soldiers, and Strahd's combat abilities.   "Would your master want you to join us in confronting him?  There is safety in numbers." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro shared the qualities of the Bow and the Arrows with the rest of the group and offered them to the others to take as they pleased: he couldn't use them.

He directed another question towards Ezmerelda.   "We are seeking something or someone called 'The Tempter', a woman, perhaps, of great beauty; or a place of temptation. It is in relation to the reading Madam Eva gave us. If you and your master have been tracking and scouting the castle, is there a room or location where such a feature or person resides?"  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Aelki Ruasha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 13 HP: 103/103 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha seems pensive,   I took it for granted that Strahd could prevent us from leaving, based on what the others had said, and the fact that I could not find my way out of the mist except to keep coming back to this spot. But,   he looks to Ezmerelda,   it never occurred to me that he brought us here. Does that mean he can see us across the spheres?   He thinks on it a moment longer,   I suppose it doesn't matter right now.  
  His retreat suggests he can be defeated. But now he has a more precise idea of what our capabilities are; he'll be better prepared for us a second time around. That means I think we need to finish what we set out to do before our next encounter. I don't know if anyone else saw, but there was someone in the rafters with a bow watching our fight. They never took a shot; I can't tell if they were there to protect Strahd, or were waiting for the right moment to strike him. We had him on the run and they never intervened. Either way, we need to keep our eyes open.
  

He looks back to Ezmerelda, assessing her potential,   What makes you think that you and your master can defeat Strahd? We are five, and he was still formidable.  
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "We plan to assault the castle again in a few hours, after we've rested and prepared ourselves. Will you join us?" Regardless of Ezmerelda's dour beliefs, she seemed a capable fighter, and they were down one combatant. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 He looks sombre at her questions about her mentor.  I'm afraid we didn't see him there, I'd worry about anyone in there alone, it was so dangerous there with all of us...we'll look for him when we go back inside. You could even come with us!  He looks expectantly at the others. 
 

"I will be glad to accompany you to the castle, but once there, I fear we might have to part ways. The Devil might be scrying on your party, which could ruin my master's plans. Even I don't know exactly what he's doing in there... Everything was planned out so that Strahd can't see it in his magic mirror. I'll just explore the castle from the inside, and once I find him, we will join forces with your fellowship for the final battle."


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Satisfied that Ezmerelda seems to be telling the truth, Herbert lays out the basics of their trip into the castle, and their encounter with Strahd, spending particular time on the vampire spawn, soldiers, and Strahd's combat abilities.   "Would your master want you to join us in confronting him?  There is safety in numbers."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 He directed another question towards Ezmerelda.   "We are seeking something or someone called 'The Tempter', a woman, perhaps, of great beauty; or a place of temptation. It is in relation to the reading Madam Eva gave us. If you and your master have been tracking and scouting the castle, is there a room or location where such a feature or person resides?"   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 He looks back to Ezmerelda, assessing her potential,   What makes you think that you and your master can defeat Strahd? We are five, and he was still formidable.   
 

Ezmerelda was awfully quiet for a long moment, her head working like clockwork. "The Marionette, The Innocent, The Tempter, The Beast. Was that what you said?" She turned to Herbert, who had offered a more in-depth description of their adventure so far. "I have no idea who your tempter could be; Unfortunately, I haven't been to the castle yet. However..."

A hint of anticipation passed by Ezmerelda's face. "I am a Vistana from the Zarovan Tribe." She said, but there wasn't pride or boasting in her voice. "I was born with the Gift. If I unpack my grandma's Tarokka deck... I might be able to draw your fourth card again."
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro shared the qualities of the Bow and the Arrows with the rest of the group and offered them to the others to take as they pleased: he couldn't use them. 
 

Not being an archer, Yikkol passes on the bow. But she offers to take the arrows and modify them into bolts.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "I will be glad to accompany you to the castle, but once there, I fear we might have to part ways. The Devil might be scrying on your party, which could ruin my master's plans. Even I don't know exactly what he's doing in there... Everything was planned out so that Strahd can't see it in his magic mirror. I'll just explore the castle from the inside, and once I find him, we will join forces with your fellowship for the final battle." 
 

Yikkol nods uncomfortably. Who knew what her master was doing?


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Ezmerelda was awfully quiet for a long moment, her head working like clockwork. "The Marionette, The Innocent, The Tempter, The Beast. Was that what you said?" She turned to Herbert, who had offered a more in-depth description of their adventure so far. "I have no idea who your tempter could be; Unfortunately, I haven't been to the castle yet. However..."

A hint of anticipation passed by Ezmerelda's face. "I am a Vistana from the Zarovan Tribe." She said, but there wasn't pride or boasting in her voice. "I was born with the Gift. If I unpack my grandma's Tarokka deck... I might be able to draw your fourth card again." 
 

"Madam Eva's fortunes proved twice accurate," Yikkol said. "Let's do it."
dangelo
 "The Dungeon."  Ezmerelda's eyes rolled fiercelly into her skull, and her entire body started to shake.  "He lurks in a hall of bones, in the dark pits of his castle." 

Unlike Madam Eva's, the girl's trance was brief. In just a few seconds she was back to her senses, her fingers resting lightly on the Dungeon card. She brushed a lock of brown hair from her face, recomposing herself. "Do you have any idea where that could be?" Her voice sounded weak and small after the trance.

 
 Spoiler 
   
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "Do you have any idea where that could be?" Her voice sounded weak and small after the trance. 
 

Zinro nodded.   "We encountered such a hall following on from our encounter with Rahadin. Remember the piles of bones and the giant skull?"   (Zinro assumes Herbert has mentioned Rahadin's death, if not he relays this fact to Ezmerelda)   "This is good - it means he resides in a location we have already explored and have no need to return to."  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro nodded.   "We encountered such a hall following on from our encounter with Rahadin. Remember the piles of bones and the giant skull?"   (Zinro assumes Herbert has mentioned Rahadin's death, if not he relays this fact to Ezmerelda)   "This is good - it means he resides in a location we have already explored and have no need to return to."   
 

“Wasn’t the hall of bones cursed? I recall that it negates the power of the Icon. I wish it were elsewhere—we’re at a disadvantage there.”
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori is impressed by their new friend's ability to commune with the spirits of the land. He almost loses his appetite at the mention of the hall of bones though.

 Ugh, we should try to draw him out if at all possible. I would rather not set foot in that cursed place again.[

Hmm...speaking of Strahd's spawn, didnt the archer from the chapel escape? What weapons does Van Richten use, we don't want tonattack him in the chaos.  
dangelo
"My master has no signature weapon, but he must be carrying a silver blade like me, for many Were-creatures serve the Devil. But he's a talented wizard and a master of disguises; Unless something goes horrible wrong, you won't have a chance to spot him."

--------

The elemental finally returned to the Hut. It bowed in its flamey-humanoid form, then pronounced a single sentence before disappearing in a flock of embers. The words it said were in Ignan, the language spoken in the Plane of Fire, which only Yikkol could understand.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The elemental finally returned to the Hut. It bowed in its flamey-humanoid form, then pronounced a single sentence before disappearing in a flock of embers. The words it said were in Ignan, the language spoken in the Plane of Fire, which only Yikkol could understand. 
 

"In his tomb, huh? Do you know where it is in relation to the throne room? Did you go up or down a level, or was it on the same floor?"
dangelo
The words in Ignan sounded like cracking fireplaces and whooshing bonfires. It seemed to be rich in grammar, since the elemental explained in detail the path it had taken towards the tomb.

In the end, it joined its hands together in a gesture of gratitude. Elementals served many masters throughout the planes, most of them tyrant conjurers in search of power; Few were kind to them like Yikkol.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The words in Ignan sounded like cracking fireplaces and whooshing bonfires. It seemed to be rich in grammar, since the elemental explained in detail the path it had taken towards the tomb.

In the end, it joined its hands together in a gesture of gratitude. Elementals served many masters throughout the planes, most of them tyrant conjurers in search of power; Few were kind to them like Yikkol. 
 

Yikkol smiles uncomfortably at the elemental's gesture of gratitude. It's clear that she's not used to being thanked.

"You wouldn't say that if you knew what I did to steal your binding jewel," she said in Ignan. A pause. "You may return to your homeland. I release you from service."

As the fire elemental disappears, Yikkol turns to her companions and relays the information proferred.

"Strahd returned to his cold chambers and is currently resting there. He rests in his tomb, down where his brother and parents lie. If he escapes again during our second fight, we now know where he goes to recover."
dangelo
"What should be your course of action, then? Certainly your Puppeteer must be in one of the two main towers." Ezmerelda raised the question. "I mustn't share my own plans to find my master, but if I know where you're going, I might have an easier time finding you in there."

 
 Spoiler 
Basically: Where do you plan to go, once inside the castle again?
 
TaiLiu
"Let's go through the secret entrance and head up," said Yikkol. "We may not know where the Tempter is, but we do know the location of the Puppeteer."

She turns to Herbert. "Assuming that this is all right with you, of course, your holiness."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "I could use Bigby's Hand to push Strahd out of the Hall, but in doing so it wouldn't be damaging him."   Zinro suggested.
TaiLiu
“Leave that to me,” Yikkol says confidently. “I’ve hurt him before and can do so again.”
dangelo
It was relief to finally enjoy some peace and quiet. From inside their Tiny Hut, it was almost possible for the fellowship to forget they were in the cursed land of Barovia, surrounded by creatures of the night and the dreadful Mist. Some howling could be heard in the distance, but after Ezmerelda put down and entire pack, even the wish to please their master wasn't enough to convince the animals to approach the camp. They enjoyed a long and peaceful rest, interrupted only by the feeling of duty towards the end of the Devil Strahd. Remaining in the safety of the Hut was tempting, but there was still a lot to be done, and their enemy grew stronger with every passing hour.

Once they got to the courtyard of Castle Ravenloft, thin rain started to fall yet again. Dark clouds gloomed in the horizon, signaling another storm on its way.

"This is where we must part ways." Ezmerelda faced the Main Entrance, am mix of anticipation and daring visible in her eyes. "If you find me in there, ask me exactly as follows:  In the shadows, where moonlight fears to tread...  and I will reply:  Whispers dance with the forgotten, echoing in the cryptic silence.  My master will also be able to identify you through this password."

Her expression became sharp like a stone: "If I fail to answer correctly, no matter how trustworthy I sound, attack immediately. It will either be an illusion, or I my mind will be under control."

Before finally parting ways, she offered the party a few flasks of holy water. "This is a concoction my master brews. It's just like holy water, but stronger." She smiled with confidence. "We shall meet again, on the other side."

* * *
 
At the back of the keep, behind towering buttresses and tall, boarded-up stained-glass windows, a small garden struggles to survive. Small flowers press skyward against the gloom. A pair of large iron gates blocks the way to some kind of overlook.

Dark clouds overhead drizzle constantly. A flagstone avenue passes between empty outbuildings, leading to a stone-paved overlook. The overlook has a low stone wall adorned with outward-facing gargoyle carvings.

A flash of lightning illuminates the dismal village of Barovia, its rooftops visible above a smothering blanket of fog one thousand feet below.

Underneath the platform on which you stand, about one hundred feet down, a stone construction protrudes from the cliff face. Three dirt-caked windows are set into it. 

Going around the castle, the party finds:

 This courtyard northeast of the keep is enclosed by towering walls. A stone carriage house with hinged wooden doors stands silent in the corner where the outer walls meet. Across from the carriage house, a slender wooden door reinforced with iron bands leads into the keep. 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
At this point you can climb/fly down the overlook, go around the castle or make your way back.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori signals to the others that he is going to check the coach house fiorambushes. He and Nethis ride up to the side of doorway quietly and listen out for anything lurking inside

 
 Spoiler: Actions  
Stealth  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 

Perception  (1d20+6)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 


Edit: but the fastieth's claws slide on the slick stone of the courtyard, breaking the silence with a loud scrabbling.
TaiLiu
Yikkol rushes over to Bori's side. "Are you all right?" She looks around to see if the sound alerted any nearby foes.

 
 Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 25 ] . 
 
J-H
 Herbert 
Herbert follows along as quietly as possible...at the back of the line.

 
 Spoiler: Stealth 

Disadvantage
 (1d20-1)[ 8 ]  or  (1d20-1)[ 2 ] 
 
dangelo
 The double doors swing open to reveal a sleek, black carriage fitted with glass windows and brass lanterns. 

It was the same black carriage that had brought them here, dragged by invisible horses and winding all the way up and around the Valley of Barovia. Now, it was stored in this Carriage House until the next time it would be useful - whenever Strahd decided to bring another party of adventurers through the Mist.

Outside the Carriage House, a small wooden door lead directly into the keep. Judging by the design of the castle, it must lead into the kitchens, or service quarters of some sort.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "If you'd like someone to scout ahead of our main adventuring party, I can always send Dot. As long as she's close, I can sense the world through her, however I would require someone to lead me around whilst I'm doing that. I imagine that a spider might draw less attention that us. But we should head through the servant's entrance. I doubt Strahd has any need of mortal servants anymore, so I imagine this area will be empty."  

Zinro moved up to the door and did his best to quietly open it. With the door open, he took a quick peek inside.

 
 Spoiler 
Stealth:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
 
dangelo
 Dim light filters in through a dust-caked window in the east wall. A door next to the window leads to the castle's northeast courtyard. Everything in this room is coated with dust, including a large, heavy table in the center of the floor. A thick book lies open on a desk, with an inkwell and a quill next to it. There is a broken door in the north wall, and a staircase in the south wall plunges into darkness. On each side of the staircase, a skeletal figure draped in gleaming chain mail stands sagging at attention, holding a rusty halberd. 
 The ancient book is weathered and brittle, but the ink in the well is fresh. At the top of each page is scribed the message "Please register for your own convenience and that of your next of kin." The book is more than half-filled with names, all of them illegible. 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro gently placed Dot on the ground and instructed her to move towards the broken door to the north. Once she was underway, Zinro crouched behind the large wooden table and linked his senses with that of Dot: seeing through her eyes and feeling the sense of webbing from other spiders long since departed. Through her eyes, Zinro scouted the room beyond.

 
 Spoiler 
Dot's Stealth is technically worse than Zinro's, but I'm hoping that, as a spider, she's less likely to trigger anything hostile if she is seen. If something does threaten her, I'll dismiss her temporarily to a pocket dimension. Zinro is deaf and blind whilst sharing Dot's senses, but he does gain all of her senses (including Web Sense, if applicable).

Dot's Stealth:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Dot's Passive Perception 12
Zinro's Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
 
dangelo
Beyond the door to the north\:
 "Broken furniture and torn cloth are strewn about this twenty-by-forty-foot room. Dim light comes from a pair of dirt-caked windows in the northeast corner. A narrow staircase with no railing ascends along the north wall." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro briefly returned to his own senses and waved the party onwards, heading towards Dot's location. Once the party was gathered, he once again ordered his familiar forwards and up the stairs, sharing her senses as she ascended.

(Same process again)
dangelo
 Dirt-caked windows allow little light to enter this upstairs room. Broken bed frames and torn bits of mattress litter the floors. A tall, dusty wardrobe roughly shaped like a coffin, its black doors painted with fey creatures, stands between two cracked, full-length mirrors hanging on the south wall. A staircase descends along the north wall. 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
No doors here.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  The ancient book is weathered and brittle, but the ink in the well is fresh. At the top of each page is scribed the message "Please register for your own convenience and that of your next of kin." The book is more than half-filled with names, all of them illegible.  
 

Yikkol flips through the book, disappointed. If her mother's signature was in here, she couldn't read it.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  Dirt-caked windows allow little light to enter this upstairs room. Broken bed frames and torn bits of mattress litter the floors. A tall, dusty wardrobe roughly shaped like a coffin, its black doors painted with fey creatures, stands between two cracked, full-length mirrors hanging on the south wall. A staircase descends along the north wall.  
 

Yikkol halfheartedly examines the room for traps—she doubted Strahd would lay a trap in an abandoned room like this one. Then she throws open the dusty wardrobe before examining the large mirrors.

"What do you think of these, your holiness?" She observes herself in the mirrors. "I wonder why Strahd kept these up..."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro regarded the mirrors from afar.   "Most strange. It seemed as though the Count had all the mirrors removed, yet these two remain. Why? Perhaps it might be best if I scanned for magic from them?"   He scooped up Dot and placed her on his shoulder. He then began the ritual chanting to detect magical auras.

 
 Spoiler 
Dot's back on me. Ritual Cast Detect Magic
 
J-H
 Herbert 
 "Perhaps he forgot... or perhaps he committed a fell deed here that he wishes to forget."   Herbert looks to see how many beds were once in this room.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Nethis allows Zinro to keep a hand on her when he is walking blind. Otherwise Bori keeps his wits about him and hand on the pommel of his broken blade.
dangelo
 A plain white dress yellowed with age flies out of the wardrobe and begins to dance in the middle of the room. The dress flaps around to the music of the storm.
 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
If anyone touches the dancing dress, it collapses in a lifeless heap on the floor. Otherwise, it dances for hours until the spell slowly fades. Hanging in the wardrobe are a few rotted servant's uniforms, none of which are animate or valuable.
 


When inspecting behind the wardrobe, Yikkol felt a faint air current that perked up her senses. There was a secret passage there, easily revealed by dragging the wardrobe out of the way. It lead to a narrow hallway and a up a ladder through a tight chimney-like access.

The fellowship advanced with caution. Only Dot was comfortable squeezing through such a tight spot, but it seemed empty and safety to cross. The first up the ladder had no option but to open the passage and go first, making way for the rest of the party to squeeze through.

They found themselves at the edge of a great staircase that spiraled upwards and downwards, rising slowly into darkness and hugging the outer wall of the  donjon . The massive tower seemed to stretch infinitely, much farther than the eye could see, Only Zinro, with the keen eyes of a Drow, was able to distinguish a faint, bloody-ish light coming from above in that pitch black darkness.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Looking up was never the problem - he'd lived in the Underdark for almost all of his life. It was looking down that was the problem, or the promise of looking down. He swallowed hard and relayed to the party the blood red light hovering ominously far above them. The fact that he could barely see it meant it was far, and the fact he could see it at all meant there were no obstacles between it and him.

  "This is certainly the interior of a tower, if I ever saw one. And, although it pains me to suggest it, the crimson light far above might be where we locate one of the items we're looking for. We should ascend."  

Zinro once again scooped Dot up and placed her on his shoulder. He moved over towards the stairs and placed himself as close to the wall of the stairs as possible. He didn't wish to go first.
TaiLiu
Yikkol leads the way, oblivious to Zinro’s discomfort and display of bravery.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha creeps through the room with the others,   Maybe the mirrors are here because Strahd does not come here.  

In the secret passage, Asha follows behind Yikkol,   Everyone, stay close. If we have to engage his creatures and one of us falls, I can slow down our decent.  
 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Stealth  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Perception  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
 
dangelo
   
 As you step onto the spiral staircase, a reddish light flares high overhead, then settles into a dull, pulsing red glow. You now see the full immensity of this tower. The spiral staircase circles up the tower's full height. The tower, sixty feet wide at its base, becomes narrower as it climbs. At the pinnacle of the hollow tower, a large crystal heart pulsates with red light. Above the heart, the stairs continue upward. 

Several halberds, poleaxes and other polearms decorated the walls -- but once the Heart became aware of the intruders, the weapons suddenly gained life and flew out of their racks. While these weren't enchanted like Rahadin's collection, the steel was of enough quality that it endured centuries of exposure, just waiting for the cue to protect the Heart of the Castle.

 Round one
Heart of Sorrow 
 Owlbear 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Flying halberds are coming your way. You are currently on the third floor (3F on the battlemap). The green arrow marks the way from the secret passage. The yellow arrows mark unexplored paths.

You go first, then the halberds.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 In the secret passage, Asha follows behind Yikkol,   Everyone, stay close. If we have to engage his creatures and one of us falls, I can slow down our decent.   
 

Yikkol gives a near-imperceptible nod.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  As you step onto the spiral staircase, a reddish light flares high overhead, then settles into a dull, pulsing red glow. You now see the full immensity of this tower. The spiral staircase circles up the tower's full height. The tower, sixty feet wide at its base, becomes narrower as it climbs. At the pinnacle of the hollow tower, a large crystal heart pulsates with red light. Above the heart, the stairs continue upward. 

Several halberds, poleaxes and other polearms decorated the walls -- but once the Heart became aware of the intruders, the weapons suddenly gained life and flew out of their racks. While these weren't enchanted like Rahadin's collection, the steel was of enough quality that it endured centuries of exposure, just waiting for the cue to protect the Heart of the Castle. 
 

Yikkol runs up the stairs, drawing her crossbow as she does so. Once she reaches the landing, she aims for the glowing heart in the center of the tower.

 
 Move 60 feet thanks to Cunning Action (Dash). 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 29 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 14 ] . 
 
"I think we need to destroy the heart," she says. "Once these animated polearms no longer have anything to protect, they should stop moving."


EDIT: Critical hit! A total of 24 magical piercing damage.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 62/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

"Don't get too far apart!"  Herbert cries out as Yikkol runs ahead.  The icon's range only goes so far.  His thigh muscles burn a bit as he heaves himself, his armor, and his gear up the stairs, while holding a ball of light at the ready.
 
 Spoiler 

Move 30'.  Ready action Sacred Flame for  (3d8)[ 14 ]  against the first enemy to show itself.
Dex DC 16 negates
?? Dex  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Typical that there would be an ambush here. At least the weapons weren't likely to knock them off the stairs. Still, Zinro didn't take any chances and hugged to the wall as he ascended.

 
 Spoiler 
Due to Zinro's fear, he's making sure to use every step closest to the wall where possible, instead of the more efficient steps closer to the middle.
Double Action Move
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha glances up at the giant beating heart giving off a strange glow. He confirms what the others are already doing,   Let's keep moving up. Be careful and stay on guard.   He continues upwards with the others, cautiously.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 

Move - Move forward 6 squares.
Action - Dodge action.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori felt something from the broken blade. He was used tonfeeling the faint echoes ofvthe spirits within all things, but this was different. He would have to attempt to commune with it, but that would have to wait.

He wasn't sure if it was the spirit within the blade, Nethis's fury at her destruction the previous day, or simply joy at being back in the saddle, but Bori felt reckless. He donned he mask, withdrew the broken blade and charged up the stairs. Nethis hugged the edge of the platform, keeping what distance she could from straining blades.

 
 Spoiler: Action 
Action - Dash 100ft
 
dangelo
Under the influence of the Heart of Sorrow, the tower shakes and pitches like if an earthquake was affecting Castle Ravenloft.

 Any creature on the stairs or hanging on a tower wall at the start of the heart's turn must succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw or fall to the base of the tower. Characters who are crawling on the staircase or who lie prone on the stairs succeed automatically. 

Herbert  (1d20-1)[ 4 ] 
Yikkol  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
Lord Zinro  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Bori  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Asha  (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

As the staircase shakes under him, Herbert stumbles and sways, trying to regain his balance.  In his efforts, he doesn't realize he's at the edge until it's too late to grab anything.   "Aaaa!"   He falls to the floor below with a heavy clatter.

 (4d6)[ 12 ]  fall damage
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Flying Halberds 2 and 5 move towards Bori and Ready their actions to Help 1 and 3.
Flying Halberds 1, 3 and 4 move towards Bori and attack him.
Flying Halberds 6-10 take the Dash action.

Flying Halberd 1
Shove: (1d20+3)[5] or (1d20+3)[19] (adv from Help action)
Against Bori's Dexterity (Acrobatics) or Strength (Athletics): (1d20+5)[13]

Flying Halberd 3
Shove: (1d20+3)[6] or (1d20+3)[23] (adv from Help action)
Against Bori's Dexterity (Acrobatics) or Strength (Athletics): (1d20+5)[11]

Flying Halberd 4
Shove: (1d20+3)[13]
Against Bori's Dexterity (Acrobatics) or Strength (Athletics): (1d20+5)[24] 
 

Resolving Round One:
Herbert falls from 45 ft. Bori falls from 60 ft. 5 Animated Halberts surround Zinro.

 Heart of Sorrow
Round Two 

The fellowship goes first.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Under the influence of the Heart of Sorrow, the tower shakes and pitches like if an earthquake was affecting Castle Ravenloft. 
 

Yikkol stays steady on her feet, moving in sync with the quivering tower. She fires another bolt at the heart.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 19 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 29 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 11 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 14 ]  magical piercing. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 As the staircase shakes under him, Herbert stumbles and sways, trying to regain his balance.  In his efforts, he doesn't realize he's at the edge until it's too late to grab anything.   "Aaaa!"   He falls to the floor below with a heavy clatter. 
 

“Your holiness!” Yikkol looks down to find Herbert still alive. “Shall I lower a rope down, your holiness?”


EDIT: Fates—another crit. 65 magical piercing damage total.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the tower shook, Zinro stumbled. For a brief moment he was at the edge, peering down at the floor below. It didn't matter that the distance was likely non-lethal, it was enough to send chills through him and turn his stomach. He cried out and forced himself back on the stairs. In horror, he watched Herbert and Bori fall. He didn't check to see if they were alive, as the Halberds closed in on him.

In fear and desperation, he visualised the landing at the very top of the tower and muttered arcane words of transportation. In an instant, Zinro was sucked through a tear in reality, along with Dot. He then reappeared at the top floor landing through another tear in reality. Despite being on the safety of the landing, Zinro still moved to lay flat on the ground, to mitigate the violent shaking of the tower.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to cast Dimension Door. I will bring Dot with me. I will teleport to the landing of the 6th floor (based on what the tower looks like, I imagine it wouldn't be hard to visualise).
Free Action to drop Prone
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 103/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha was expecting something to attack, but he wasn't expecting the entire tower to lurch back and forth. He remains on his feet through the violent trembling of the landing, but Herbert is thrown off. Flying halberds descend and surround Zinro in the blink of an eye, while another group of halberds appear at the landing above, and Bori is thrown down as well. Zinro utters an incantation and is gone.

Just like that, it is only Asha and Yikkol on the stairs. Maintaining her focus, Yikkol lets loose another bolt at the giant crystal heart above. Asha turns his attention to the group of halberds before him, focusing the thunderous disruptors in his bionoid armor at them.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
  Action   - Cast Shatter spell (upcast), capturing all halberds in front of Asha.
Halberds must make a Constitution save (DC 17) with Disadvantage due to being made of metal.
Damage -  (4d8)[ 17 ] 

Constitution Saves (without modifiers), for half damage
Halberd 6  (1d20)[ 16 ] ,  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Halberd 7  (1d20)[ 13 ] ,  (1d20)[ 15 ] 
Halberd 8  (1d20)[ 13 ] ,  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
Halberd 9  (1d20)[ 5 ] ,  (1d20)[ 1 ] 
Halberd 10  (1d20)[ 13 ] ,  (1d20)[ 10 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori had expected to fend off jabs and slashes, not be manhandled (broomhandled) off the edge of staircase. Shaking himself and climbing back to his feet, he looked around to see if Nethis suffered the same fate.
Cursing himself and the makes of stairs and multi-story buildings everywhere, he starts to lope back up the staircase.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Stand from prone. Dash to move 35 up the stairs.

 (6d6)[ 21 ]  fall damage.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 61/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
As Bori passes him, Herbert stands and casts a healing spell upon the halfling.

 
 Spoiler 

Cure Wounds  (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 
Heal self 4hp
Stand, move 15'
 
dangelo
Resolving Round One:
Asha and Nethis fall from the ledge. Nethis is un-summoned.

 Heart of Sorrow
Round Three 

The clattering of steel and splattering of blood that filled the tower. For each of Yikkol's well-aimed shots, a great volume of blood would gush out of the Heart's wounds. Some of it splattered on Herbert's beard and Asha's armor - being rather small and closer to the wall, Bori managed to avoid it.

But the blood from the Heart of the Castle was nothing like that black, mucous secretion that all vampires and zombies seemed to have flowing in their veins -- It was bright red. Blood red. Crimson red, like only human blood could be, filled with  life , vital energy, and a spark of their very souls. It wasn't hard to imagine Strahd coming here to feed from time to time. After all, according to him, the people of Barovia are broken and their blood tastes like mud to such a powerful vampire lord.

But a different sound joined the noises of battle. The awfully familiar rattle of claws grazing against stone, elongated limbs crawling along the walls like bloodsucking spiders. They orchestrated a surprise attack, and although the fellowship was ready for it, their red glowing eyes were still a dangerous sight. No less than six Lesser Vampires came out of the multiple corridors that lead away from the tower.

Your perception was higher than their stealth, so it's not a surprise attack.

Vampire Spawn 1 shoves Yikkol twice
 (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  against Yikkol's  (1d20+8)[ 27 ] 
 (1d20+6)[ 23 ]  against Yikkol's  (1d20+8)[ 17 ] *

Vampire Spawn 2 shoves Yikkol twice
 (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  against Yikkol's  (1d20+8)[ 14 ] *
 (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  against Yikkol's  (1d20+8)[ 11 ] *

*If Yikkol has already fallen, will Dash instead

Vampire Spawn 3 uses the Dash action
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro didn't dare look over the edge to see how his companions were doing. There was little he could do for them anyway. Instead, he tried to focus his mind on destroying his enemy; even if his enemy in this moment was a giant beating crystal heart. The heart of Ravenloft. He would have loved to study this object in greater detail, and it's relationship with the castle and Strahd, but if he didn't deal with it, it would kill them all as surely as the Halberds chasing them.

Casting a spell was a little undignified from a Prone position, but necessity demanded it from the noble Drow. At least no-one was around to see it. He focused his arcane energies down his arm once again and reached out. Once again, wisps of translucent energy formed a hand that grew out from Zinro's extended hand. Bigby's Hand had returned. Zinro narrowed his eyes at the Heart, clenched his own fist, and thrust forward. The Hand obeyed and swung at the Heart.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to cast 5th Level Bigby's Hand. On the turn it's summoned, I can direct it. I move it up to to the Heart and make a Clenched Fist attack against it.
Fist Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  for  (4d8+4)[ 19 ]  Force Damage
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The clattering of steel and splattering of blood that filled the tower. For each of Yikkol's well-aimed shots, a great volume of blood would gush out of the Heart's wounds. Some of it splattered on Herbert's beard and Asha's armor - being rather small and closer to the wall, Bori managed to avoid it.

But the blood from the Heart of the Castle was nothing like that black, mucous secretion that all vampires and zombies seemed to have flowing in their veins -- It was bright red. Blood red. Crimson red, like only human blood could be, filled with  life , vital energy, and a spark of their very souls. It wasn't hard to imagine Strahd coming here to feed from time to time. After all, according to him, the people of Barovia are broken and their blood tastes like mud to such a powerful vampire lord.

But a different sound joined the noises of battle. The awfully familiar rattle of claws grazing against stone, elongated limbs crawling along the walls like bloodsucking spiders. They orchestrated a surprise attack, and although the fellowship was ready for it, their red glowing eyes were still a dangerous sight. No less than six Lesser Vampires came out of the multiple corridors that lead away from the tower. 
 

Yikkol grunts as the combined efforts of the vampires successfully push her off the stairs. She tries to land on her feet but falls onto her stomach instead. You can see bruises and scrapes as she gets up, though she otherwise seems all right.

She wonders aloud: "If we destroy the heart and leave the castle, would that mean Strahd has nothing to feed on? Perhaps that'll weaken him."

She picks up her crossbow and fires at Spawn #2, which assisted with shoving her down the stairs.

 
 Stands up from prone. 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 7 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 12 ]  magical piercing. 
 
"Your holiness, what should we do? There's an awful lot of them—we'll probably be shoved again if we try to go up the stairs."


EDIT: Yikkol takes 23 falling damage. She deals 19 damage total.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 0/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha springs to his feet and looks up. Against the red light of the Heart, he can see Zinro's silhouette,   Good idea,   he thinks to himself. He teleports to the stair and looks up and across the way. There, on the third level, he can see the halberds and vampire spawn.   Can everyone still fight? We have to destroy the halberds and spawn so Zinro can focus on the heart.   He runs up the stairs and aims his hands upward, concentrating the thunderous disruptors at the halberds again.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 
  Move   - Stand up
  Bonus Action   - Starlight Step onto the stairs
  Move   - Move 15ft up
  Action   - Cast Shatter on group of halberds that pushed Asha down (it's personal)
 (3d8)[ 7 ]  Thunder damage, Con save DC 17 for half damage

Halberd saves
Halberd 1  (1d20)[ 1 ] 
Halberd 2  (1d20)[ 8 ] 
Halberd 3  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
Halberd 4  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
Halberd 5  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
Halberd 9  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Halberd 10  (1d20)[ 8 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

A wordless scream of pain erupts from Vori as Nethis falls. He rushes to her as her corporeal form dissipates. He pu chest the ground then stalks back over to the stairs, activating his blade. The broken blade is replaces by a blinding lance of light .

 Come on then you cowards, fight me! 

He is breathing heavily, wracked by rage, grief, and shame. He grips the handle of the shining sword hard, ready to strike at any foes foolish enough to get close to him.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Bonus action - activate Sun sword.
Ready action to attack first foe in range.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 65/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "It looks like Zinro has this...in hand.  I can't make it up the stairs in time, but we can support him from here."   Looking up, Herbert can see the form of a vampire spawn close to the edge of the stairs.  He fires a golden beam at it, burning it and leaving it glowing.
 
 Spoiler 

Guiding Bolt  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  for  (4d6)[ 19 ]  radiant and someone has advantage on an attack roll against it.

I think #2 is the only one visible from his position.
 
dangelo
Resolving round three: 
 Spoiler 
Halberds 9 and 10 are destroyed
Halberds 1-5 took 7 damage
Halberds 6-8 have 17 damage taken

Heart of Sorrow is destroyed
 

 Heart of Sorrow
Round Four 

The tower was filled with the sound of shattering glass. Bigby's Hand successfully smashed what remained of the Heart of Sorrow after Yikkol put so many holes in it, and it exploded in a million red crystals. Blood painted the stone walls red, leaving Zinro soaked in crimson. The tremor stopped and the red light slowly disappeared, flooding the tower in darkness.

All halberds take the Dash action and fly up towards Bigby's Hand
All spawns will take the Dash action and climb up the tower.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

The shaking had stopped, thank Lolth, and he'd worry about cleaning himself up later. For now, several Halberds and the sound of scratching claws closed in on him. He couldn't stay here, not with the rest of the party likely on the floor of the tower.

He swung at one of the Halberds with Bigby's Hand, and then he stood and muttered the same arcane words from earlier. He had briefly seen the floor of the tower when he had been thrown to the edge of the stairs by the violent shaking of the tower. Although it had terrified him, it now allowed him to visualise his feet firmly upon the flagstones at the bottom. Safe from falling. With a pop of reality, Zinro disappeared from the top floor, reappearing a moment later on the bottom floor, along with Dot, covered in blood.

Now that he was on the ground floor, Zinro was able to see the party had survived their fall, and it had seemed like everyone had fallen too! He moved up to consolidate with the party. He didn't say a word.

 
 Spoiler 
Bonus Action to direct the Hand. Clenched Fist attacked on Halberd 8:  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  for  (4d8+4)[ 17 ]  Force Damage.
15ft Move to Stand Up.
Main Action to Cast 4th Level Dimension Door, bringing Dot with me. Visualising the ground floor of the tower.
Use the rest of my movement to move towards the party.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The tower was filled with the sound of shattering glass. Bigby's Hand successfully smashed what remained of the Heart of Sorrow after Yikkol put so many holes in it, and it exploded in a million red crystals. Blood painted the stone walls red, leaving Zinro soaked in crimson. The tremor stopped and the red light slowly disappeared, flooding the tower in darkness. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Looking up, Herbert can see the form of a vampire spawn close to the edge of the stairs.  He fires a golden beam at it, burning it and leaving it glowing. 
 

"Well done, your holiness!" As the red glow from the Heart dissipates and their foes begin to disappear into the darkness, Yikkol runs up the stairs, following the glowing vampire's trajectory. She aims a bolt at its center.

 
 Move 60 feet with Cunning Action. 
 Attack Spawn #2:  (1d20+9)[ 27 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 12 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 12 ]  magical piercing. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
   Can everyone still fight? We have to destroy the halberds and spawn so Zinro can focus on the heart.   
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 With a pop of reality, Zinro disappeared from the top floor, reappearing a moment later on the bottom floor, along with Dot, covered in blood.

Now that he was on the ground floor, Zinro was able to see the party had survived their fall, and it had seemed like everyone had fallen too! He moved up to consolidate with the party. He didn't say a word. 
 

"Not bad, Zinro," Yikkol says. "I'm not wholly sure what it was we destroyed, but Strahd wanted it safe. Another victory against the bloodsucker!"


EDIT: 24 damage total. 😎
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 0/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha catches a glimpse of Zinro arcane fist smashing the heart before its light goes out and he can no longer see to the top of the tower. The halberds and spawn ascend as quickly as they can and eventually out of Asha's darkvision as well,    Zinro,    he thinks to himself. But even before he can rush to get to the wizard's side, he hears the same arcane pop as before and looks down. Zinro had teleported himself to the ground level. Asha rushes to regroup with him and the others.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 4 

  Move   - Move 30ft down to 1st floor stair.
  Action   - Dash to ground floor.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori grits his teeth, his anger dissipating slightly when their enemies head away from them.

 Well done Zinro. We still need to get to the top of the tower though don't we? Do we wait for them to attack or move up as a group to stop them throwing us off the edge? 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 65/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "The vampires of this castle are not patient in battle.  If we wait a few moments, we'll know if they plan to come here, or run elsewhere." 
 
 Spoiler 

Readied Sacred Flame, first target,  (3d8)[ 16 ]  radiant, Dex DC 15 negates
?? Dex  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
 
dangelo
Resolving round for:
 
 Spoiler 
Halberd 8 is destroyed
Spawn #2 takes 24 damage from Yikkol
No spawns come within 60' of Herbert
 

 Heart of Sorrow
Round Five 

Halberds 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 attack Bigby's hand

1.  (1d20+2)[ 13 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 9 ] 
2.  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 5 ] 
3.  (1d20+2)[ 6 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 10 ] 
4.  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 5 ] 
5.  (1d20+2)[ 12 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 3 ] 
6.  (1d20+2)[ 21 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 4 ] 
7.  (1d20+2)[ 4 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 3 ] 
9.  (1d20+2)[ 18 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 7 ] 
10.  (1d20+2)[ 16 ]  for  (1d10+1)[ 2 ] 

Spawns 1, 2, 3 move further up the staircase and take the Hide action

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Spawns' Stealth:
1. (1d20+6)[9]
2. (1d20+6)[25]
3. (1d20+6)[16]

Party's Perception:

Asha (1d20+6)[21].
Bori (Sentinel Shield) (1d20+5)[14] or (1d20+5)[20]
Herbert (1d20+8)[28]
Yikkol (1d20+10)[15]
Zinro (1d20+9)[18] 
 
J-H
 Herbert 
 "They're running away.  I can hear them.  We want to go up as well, but I doubt we can catch them in a chase." 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "They're running away.  I can hear them.  We want to go up as well, but I doubt we can catch them in a chase."  
 

"Let's move up slowly, then," Yikkol said. "Stick to the walls and keep ourselves hidden for as long as possible."

She slings her crossbow onto her back and pulls out her whip. She keeps her back to the wall while moving up the stairs.

 
 Hide (Supreme Sneak):  (1d20+12)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+12)[ 18 ] . 
 Move 15 feet. 
 Ready an action to shoot if a baddie comes down the stairs within range. 
 
J-H
 Herbert 
Herbert heads up the stairs, trying to keep Asha from getting too far out front.  (dash 60', not that he can keep up the pace long)
dangelo
Silence reigned in the great tower. Slowly, the fellowship reassembled their formation and licked their wounds before resuming the climb. The way up the staircase was undisturbed - the vampires seemed to have ran away. Even Zinro couldn't see through walls, but Herbert managed to pick up their noise: the three spawns crawled up and ran away from the fight. They could now resume their crusade.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was glad the tower was no longer shaking, but all the same he hugged the wall of the tower as he ascended with the party. It looked somewhat comical, as Zinro ascended whilst repeatedly punching out and swiping with his arm and hand, but such was the necessity of the spell he had cast.

After a minute, the Hand winked out of existence and Zinro flexed his tired arm.   "Could we please take a moment when we reach level the Heart was on? I'm absolutely covered in blood and could really do with cleaning it off before I vomit."  

If/when the party reached the Heart's former level, Zinro began to prestidigitate his clothes clean, using them to wipe the blood from himself and Dot as best as he could, and then cleaning them again.   "I am happy to continue with great haste, I don't like being so high up; but if we need to rest then I will suffer this height a short while longer."  
J-H
 Herbert 
Herbert retrieves his Immovable Rod from his pack.   "If it seems like the tower is going to shake again, I'm going to activate this.  If you want to stay near me, you can hold on to it as well." 
dangelo
 The stairs end at a dark and dreary room with manacles attached to the walls. In the middle of the room is a wood-framed bed fitted with leather restraints. At the foot of the bed rests a closed iron chest, is lid sculpted with an emblem.

A wooden ladder leads up to a trapdoor in the ceiling. Thin streams of water drip through the trapdoor's rotting wood, forming a puddle around the base of the ladder. 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro didn't seem perturbed by the nature of this 'bedroom' at all. Instead he examined the chest and the emblem, and then proceeded to mutter the arcane words to check for magical auras.

  "Now would be a good time for the rest of you to heal and rest whilst I scan this chest for anything magical."  
 
 Spoiler 
Investigation to check the chest for anything of interest/traps:  (1d20+8)[ 11 ] 
History to see if the emblem has any meaning:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ] 
Ritual Cast Detect Magic
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  The stairs end at a dark and dreary room with manacles attached to the walls. In the middle of the room is a wood-framed bed fitted with leather restraints. At the foot of the bed rests a closed iron chest, is lid sculpted with an emblem.

A wooden ladder leads up to a trapdoor in the ceiling. Thin streams of water drip through the trapdoor's rotting wood, forming a puddle around the base of the ladder.  
 

Yikkol examines the room, paying special attention to the chest and the trapdoor. Strange—is the attic leaky?

If it seems safe, she'll lead the way up the ladder.
dangelo
The chest is locked, but Yikkol manages to pick the lock with her thieves' tools. The chest contains a bejeweled gold crown resting on a silk pillow.

After the that, the party climbs through the trapdoor.

 A cold wind greets you atop the tower roof, its rain-slicked flagstones surrounded by a twenty-foot-diameter ring of stone battlements. The thunderclouds above suddenly coalesce into the terrible visage of Strahd. The face utters a ghastly moan as thousands of bats fly out of its gaping maw and descend upon the tower. 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

(Was the crown magical?)

Zinro quickly retreated back down the trap door, as much to escape the height than to escape the swarm of bats descending upon them.

  "There is a bridge that connects to the other tower, but perhaps we'd be better off starting at the base and working our way up? Seems like an easy place to get pushed off on the bridge!"  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 The chest is locked, but Yikkol manages to pick the lock with her thieves' tools. The chest contains a bejeweled gold crown resting on a silk pillow. 
 

Yikkol pulls it out of the chest and hold onto it for now.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 After the that, the party climbs through the trapdoor.

 A cold wind greets you atop the tower roof, its rain-slicked flagstones surrounded by a twenty-foot-diameter ring of stone battlements. The thunderclouds above suddenly coalesce into the terrible visage of Strahd. The face utters a ghastly moan as thousands of bats fly out of its gaping maw and descend upon the tower.  
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro quickly retreated back down the trap door, as much to escape the height than to escape the swarm of bats descending upon them. 
 

Once safely away from the tower roof, Yikkol looks incredulously at the rest of the party. How the hell did Strahd have control over the thunderclouds?


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "There is a bridge that connects to the other tower, but perhaps we'd be better off starting at the base and working our way up? Seems like an easy place to get pushed off on the bridge!"   
 

“Yes, I’m sure those bats will swarm the bridge once they see us outside.

“Shall we head to the basement? There’s an orb in the teleportation chamber that can bring us straight to the top.”
dangelo
 A strong wind blows across this slender bridge of stone and masonry. The bridge's old iron railings have rusted away years ago, leaving the bridge without handholds. 

On the other side:

 The sixty-foot-diameter tower roof is rimmed with battlements. A slender stone bridge with no railing spans the gap between this tower and the slightly taller tower to the north. To the east, the high tower of Ravenloft thrusts skyward with no apparent opening at this level. Black, boiling clouds hurl rain down from above. 

The party was halfway across the bridge when the first in line noticed there was no opening to the high tower at this level. Just as they shouted that to the others who followed, a battle cry crossed the night. Six new enemies had been grasping to the side of the tower, their  High Tower of Ravenloft. Their colorful clothes, tan skin and thick accent gave away their identities immediately: they were Vistani thugs, some of the many who were under Strahd's control.

"Lord Strahd was right! They came straight to the high tower!" Called their leader. "Kill them! Don't you remember what he said? We'll be his favorite servants!  Kill them now!" 
 Stone Bridge
Round One 
 Owlbear 

Please place your tokens within the blue area and go first. This cannot be a surprise attack because of how careful you were about crossing the bridge. You win initiative.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro didn't leave anything to chance. The gap between the two towers was less than 30ft, but he still had no desire to step out onto the perilous bridge when he could use his magic to safely transport him across. He placed Dot on Yikkol's shoulder, considering her to have the best balance and therefore least likely to fall; since Stepping across the bridge would leave her behind.

From the archway of the first tower, he muttered an arcane word and with a familiar pop of reality he disappeared and then reappeared just inside the second tower. He waited for his companions to join him before the sounds of the Vistani could be heard.

  "Your master does not value your lives, and neither do I."   Zinro declared, before pointing his finger at the thug in front of him and hurling a bolt of fire at him.

 
 Spoiler 
As mentioned, Zinro wanted to Misty Step across the bridge, so I've done that pre-combat. I can't take Dot with me, so she's riding shotgun with Yikkol.
As for combat, Main Action to cast the Cantrip Fire Bolt at the Thug directly in front of Zinro:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 13 ]  Fire Damage.
Zinro won't move and doesn't use a Bonus Action.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 65/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert steps forward aggressively, also moving himself off the bridge and far enough in that he can't easily be pushed off.
 "You are to be the most favored servants of the worst ruler Barovia has seen in hundreds of years?  The one who helps you grow food and have safe homes for your families?  Please, show me the powers he has granted you that will make you his favored servants.  Surely you can fly like his soldiers that we've been destroying, or summon demons like his centuries-old general we killed yesterday.  If you think you can match such unnatural powers." 

Herbert spreads his arms wide in a "go ahead, take your best shot" type of motion.

 
 Spoiler: roll 

Persuasion  (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori's hand nearly goes for his blade as the firms drop, but he relaxes significantly when he sees that their oponents are living.

 Evening folks, horrible weather this, eh? How's about weball get inside out of the wind, have a drink and share some stories? 

His mark glows with his words, adding an extra layer of caring to those closest him.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Cast calm emotions, 20ft radius sphere coming from him.
DC16 Charisma save. Ideally waiting until they are all within range but just catching the 4 in front of them if that isn't possible.
Going left to right
 (1d20)[ 14 ] 
 (1d20)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20)[ 7 ] 

And a Persuasion roll if he can attempt that too
 (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  A strong wind blows across this slender bridge of stone and masonry. The bridge's old iron railings have rusted away years ago, leaving the bridge without handholds. 

On the other side:

 The sixty-foot-diameter tower roof is rimmed with battlements. A slender stone bridge with no railing spans the gap between this tower and the slightly taller tower to the north. To the east, the high tower of Ravenloft thrusts skyward with no apparent opening at this level. Black, boiling clouds hurl rain down from above. 

The party was halfway across the bridge when the first in line noticed there was no opening to the high tower at this level. Just as they shouted that to the others who followed, a battle cry crossed the night. Six new enemies had been grasping to the side of the tower, their  High Tower of Ravenloft. Their colorful clothes, tan skin and thick accent gave away their identities immediately: they were Vistani thugs, some of the many who were under Strahd's control. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
   Bori  

Bori's hand nearly goes for his blade as the firms drop, but he relaxes significantly when he sees that their oponents are living.

 Evening folks, horrible weather this, eh? How's about weball get inside out of the wind, have a drink and share some stories? 

His mark glows with his words, adding an extra layer of caring to those closest him. 
 

Yikkol's anger quickly gives way to drugged indifference. Whatever. These thugs didn't matter.

"Excuse me," she says as she moves pass a thug and down the spiral stairs. She watches for opportunity attacks, more out of habit than anything else, but doesn't make any threatening moves. "You lot coming along? Maybe the stairs here connect to the tower."

 
 Yikkol disengages and moves down the stairs. Not too far. 20 feet movement. 
 Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] , just in case there are traps or additional danger. 
 
dangelo
Bori's spell hit the Vistani like a wave, leaving them washed up and confused at shore. They looked from the paladin to the others before exchanging worried looks among themselves. Sentences like "These guys are the real deal...", "Didn't they kill a bunch of vampires already?" and "We should just leave this place." spread among the group. Two Vistani who hadn't been affected by the spell tried to rally the others, but without any results. When Yikkol made for the stairs, they lowered their weapons and stepped back.

 End of encounter! 

As the fellowship advanced, the Vistani shrugged and went the opposite way. Perhaps it was time for them to leave Barovia.

Yikkol found herself in a narrow staircase. The first level below the bridge had a door that seemed to lead to personal chambers or accommodations in the castle. The staircase continued downwards;
J-H
 Herbert 
Under his helmet, Herbert smiles slightly.  They just saved the lives of several people.  Maybe not good people, but people nonetheless.  After the vampire is dealt with, perhaps the Vistani needed to learn more of Pelor.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 Stay safe folks!
 
As the tension dissipates and the vistani turn to leave he shuts his eyes and lets out a low sigh of relief. At least they had a little break from unnecessary horror for once. Then a thought occurs to him and he turns to the leaving thugs.

 Hey, we're aiming for the top of this tower. Any idea how we get in? 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Perhaps we should check these rooms before we continue descending? We still need to locate 'the Tempter'."   Zinro suggested. For the time being, he allowed Dot to remain with Yikkol.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Yikkol found herself in a narrow staircase. The first level below the bridge had a door that seemed to lead to personal chambers or accommodations in the castle. The staircase continued downwards; 
 


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "Perhaps we should check these rooms before we continue descending? We still need to locate 'the Tempter'."   Zinro suggested. For the time being, he allowed Dot to remain with Yikkol. 
 

“Good point.” Yikkol pushes open the door and begins to take a look.
dangelo
 The low ceiling of this twenty-foot-square room presses down on you. Torn and broken couches lie in heaps, haphazardly strewn about. Deep claw marks cover the hardwood furniture, and the once lush upholstery has been sliced to shreds. From the dark shadows amid the rubble, three pairs of green eyes stare back at you. 

Three black cats are lounging comfortably around the chamber. They rub their backs against your shins and run away at any abrupt movement, like normal cats do.

There are two doors in this room: The one Yikkol opened to get here, and another one on the far side.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro ignored the cats and went to open the far door.

(If the cats make any attempt to attack Dot, Zinro will temporarily dismiss her)
dangelo
The three cats are rather curious about the tarantula, and make several attempts to approach and smell it, but never to harm it. They don't even make a sound, unbothered by the bunch of humanoids who just barged into their territory.

Next door:

 Heavy beams support the ceiling of this large room, the outer wall of which curves to follow the shape of the tower. Dim light filters into the room through the steel lattice squares of two leaded glass windows. Several tables stand throughout the room, weighed down by stacks of glass jars and bottles, all of them bearing labels. 

The labeled glass containers hold various elements that the witches use in their fell concoctions and rituals. The labels identify such items as "Eye of Newt," "Hair of Bat," "Snail Hearts," and "Frog's Breath." There are no magic potions among the bottles and jars.

Out the window, you can see the rooftops of the main area of the castle just one floor below. The leaded windows are fitted with iron hinges and can be opened. They are currently locked from the inside.

There are also two doors in this room, one of them leading to the cats room.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro paused briefly to look at the various reagents.   "I suppose the cats are the familiars of the alchemists that reside here. Although where are the alchemists themselves? They were surely alerted to our impending presence."   Regardless, Zinro moved to continue exploring through the unopened door.
TaiLiu
Yikkol looks around the tables but finds nothing of interest. She follows Zinro through the next door.
J-H
 Herbert 

Herbert looks carefully at the cats, especially when he enters the room.  If they seem to react to him or to his symbol of Pelor, he'll investigate further.  Otherwise, he will follow the others.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha remains tense as they walk passed the vistani thugs. He is not quite as eager to leave potential enemies behind them, but sees that the others are satisfied the encounter went in the way it did.

On the other side, they enter a room that appears to have been the target of Strahd's wrath. Three cats peer at them as the group makes their way through.

  The Tempter...   Asha says aloud,   What might that be?   He begins searching the area.

 
 Spoiler 

Perception:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Investigation:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ]  + Flash of Genius +5 = 16
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori fishes out some scraps of food from his back and offers them to the cats. He gives them a stroke behind the ears if they take the food from his hand. Otherwise, he leaves the food on the floor near them and takes a few steps away. Then he reaches into his pack and pulls out a bag containing four small pasties.

 Anyone fancy another of my snacks, I rustled a few more up this morning?
 
 
 Spoiler: Chow time 
4 x 4THP snacks up for grabs for whoever wants them.
 
dangelo
When searching the room, Asha noticed numerous boot prints in the dust and a short trail on the floor, leading from the northeast corner to the unchecked door. It looked like something heavy had been dragged across the floor toward the doorway.

Following the dust tracks, they found a secret trapdoor in the northeast corner of the floor. However, the trapdoor lacks a handle or any other means to open it, and the gap is too narrow to put your fingers in it. A faint magical aura suggests it requires a password to be opened.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Anyone fancy another of my snacks, I rustled a few more up this morning?  
 

Zinro took one of the offered treats and ate it swiftly.   "My thanks."  

He inspected the trapdoor for a moment.   "I have no way to open this or divine it's passphrase. Does anyone else have any ideas, or should we simply press on? I suppose the alchemists might keep their rare or expensive reagents in here."  
dangelo
Carefully, you crack the door open just an inch:

 Green-glowing wisps of steam bubble up from a fat, black cauldron in the center of this dark, oppressive room. Surrounding the cauldron are seven tall wooden stools. 

The room is completely quiet.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori looks over the locked door.  I think I can ask the spirits to help me unbind the magic holding it shut, but that would be fairly taxing. What do you think? 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
 Bori looks over the locked door.  I think I can ask the spirits to help me unbind the magic holding it shut, but that would be fairly taxing. What do you think?  
 

  "Unfortunately I think the magic is too tightly bound to the object to be simply dispelled. If you have a Knock spell, that might help us; otherwise I think we can do little to open it."  

Zinro takes a look at the room from the doorway. Seeing no other exits, he simply says:   "We should leave. I am beginning to grow convinced that the alchemists are closer than we think; and I believe no good would come from investigating their cauldron."   He makes to return to the stairway from whence they came and descend another level.
TaiLiu
Yikkol isn’t so sure about that. If Strahd had alchemists working for him, surely they were doing something important. She takes in the room first. If it seems safe, she’ll take a look at the cauldron and whatever’s cooking in it.

 
 Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 13 ] , if needed. 
 Stealth:  (1d20+12)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+12)[ 24 ] , if needed. 
 
dangelo
 Cauldron Room
Round One 
 Owlbear 
 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

Please place your tokens inside the blue area.

You guys go first.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

The creaking of floor boards and the subtle noises of breath and movement betrayed the fact that Zinro had been right: the alchemists were indeed closer than they had thought.

He quickly cast Mage Armour on himself, in case these enemies were intent on fighting them.

  "The fact that you have chosen to remain hidden demonstrates that you are cautious and not immediately hostile. Perhaps you are not as foolish as Rahadin, who died a fool's death. We seek to destroy Strahd, as you surely know, and already bested him once. You can let us pass, and perhaps I will find use for you in this castle when it is mine. Or you can choose to fight and risk death and the destruction of your reagents."   He called out.

He moved slowly to be beside Herbert.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action Cast Mage Armour
Move to be beside Herbert
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha and Yikkol enter into the room with the cauldron. As Yikkol nears the bubbling brew, Asha can hear movement around them; they are not alone. The bionoid armor is already adjusting the visor on his helmet as Asha peers around the room. He quietly says to Yikkol,   Look sharp, we are not alone,   just as Zinro speaks to the witches surrounding them invisibly. He makes eye contact with the four in the room,   Four in here, under a glamour.  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Action   - Cast See Invisibility.
 
Waistcoatwill
[B]Bori[/B]

  Sneaky!  

Bori reaches out with his senses, feeling for that unmistakable feeling of wrongness that accompanied some mystical creatures, then he could think about how to react. He gabbles good naturally to buy some time.

 I'm afraid I didn't bring enough snacks for everyone, I can probably stretch my beer to go around though. What are you cooking up? 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Divine Sense, detect location and type of all undead, fiends, and fey within 60ft.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 65/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless, everyone 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

With hostile creatures about who likely practice unholy magics, Herbert asks for Pelor to protect the party.

 (Bless, 3rd level, protects 5 people so that's all of us) 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Waistcoatwill 
  Anyone fancy another of my snacks, I rustled a few more up this morning?  
 

Yikkol gladly takes one and bites into it with relish. Delicious as always.


 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 Yikkol isn’t so sure about that. If Strahd had alchemists working for him, surely they were doing something important. She takes in the room first. If it seems safe, she’ll take a look at the cauldron and whatever’s cooking in it. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 You guys go first. 
 

Yikkol hears the shuffling of feet. The steam coming off the cauldron seemed to suddenly stop. They weren't alone. Dark magic was afoot.

She feels the rush of divine magic as Herbert fortifies the party. She hears the party try to reason. Fools! Did Rahadin submit? No, they weren't afraid of the party. They were planning an attack. Well, this was a game Yikkol could play, and better.

"When have we ever reasoned with Strahd's servants? It's an ambush!"

With a grunt, the half-orc picks up the boiling cauldron and hurls hot liquid all over the witches.

 
 Athletics to hit the witches:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ]  fire or bludgeoning or whatever. 
 
Then she drops the cauldron with a resounding clang and runs.

 
 Disengage and move 30 feet. 
 

EDIT: She does 8 damage to witches 1 &amp; 3.
dangelo
Laughing erupted from the darkness. No less than seven haunched figures emerged from the shadows, raising their crooked fingers in the air and announcing incantations at the fellowship. Seeing their first sleeping charms didn't work, -  "Elf! It's elf!"  they cried - the rest switched to necrotic rays of green energy that smelled like the inside of an animal's stomach, and intoxicated whoever was hit by it.

Barovian Witches 1 and 2 cast Sleep (Dot falls asleep)
Barovian Witches 3-7 cast Sickening Ray

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Barovian Witch 3 casts Ray of Sickness (2nd level) on Asha: (1d20+4)[8] for (3d8)[13] damage.
Asha's Constitution Save to avoid being Poisoned: (1d20)[2]

Barovian Witch 4 casts Ray of Sickness (2nd level) on Asha: (1d20+4)[24] or [roll]1d20+4[/roll (Stealth 12 vs Perception 8) for (3d8)[15] damage.
Asha's Constitution Save to avoid being Poisoned: (1d20)[6]

Barovian Witch 5 casts Ray of Sickness (2nd level) on Zinro: (1d20+4)[11] for (3d8)[9] damage.
Zinro's Constitution Save to avoid being Poisoned: (1d20)[5]

Barovian Witch 6 casts Ray of Sickness (2nd level) on Zinro: (1d20+4)[10] or (1d20+4)[23] (Stealth 20 vs Perception 7) for (3d8)[18] damage.
Zinro's Constitution Save to avoid being Poisoned: (1d20)[2]

Barovian Witch 7 casts Ray of Sickness (2nd level) on Yikkol: (1d20+4)[10] or (1d20+4)[21] (Stealth 20 vs Perception 13) for (3d8)[14] damage.
Yikkol's Constitution Save to avoid being Poisoned: (1d20)[2] 
 
 

 Cauldron Room
Round Two 

You go first.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 65/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (Everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "Beware, they're all about us!"   The light in the outer room flickers wildly as Herbert's glowing shield swings about.  He charges towards the western witch, a golden light flashing out from the symbol of Pelor to envelope her.
 
 Spoiler 

Move 10' west, couldn't figure out how to move the Bless ring.
Sacred Flame  (3d8)[ 10 ]  radiant damage, Dex DC 16 negates.
Witch dex  (1d20)[ 17 ] +mods
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 10/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Blessed, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
The bionoid armor absorbs the poisonous beams with no harm to Asha. He moves further into the room, between two of the witches, and throws punches at both of them, trying to hit them with the sonic disruptors to protect his allies.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
  Move   -  Move between witches 2 and 4.
  Action   - Attack vs Witches 2 and 4
Attack vs Witch 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  +  (1d4)[ 3 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 11 ] 
  Hit Effect   - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
Attack vs Witch 4 -  (1d20+11)[ 25 ]  +  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
  Hit Effect   - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro felt sick. The ray that had blasted him hurt, yes, but there was a deep nausea that he felt and his head swam with delirium. He needed to support his companions, but found it difficult to aim at the Witches surrounding them. Instead, he decided to use his Drow heritage to support them. Looking back into the cauldron room, Zinro began speaking in Drow, making demands based on the blood in his veins.

Suddenly the cauldron room burst into violet light, illuminating everything within. As the light filled the room, Zinro weaved his hands around and the light seemed to bend around Asha and Bori; leaving them as they were.

With the light filling the room, Zinro realised he couldn't stay where he was. He was exposed, poisoned, with very little cover. His only recourse, he determined, was to push past the Hag battling with Herbert and reach the safety of the destroyed room, behind Yikkol. Gritting his teeth, he made to move past the Witch.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to use Drow ability to cast Faerie Fire (1st Level, using my Charisma, once per LR) in the Cauldron Room. All objects can be attacked with Advantage in this room. Sculpt Spell to avoid Asha and Bori. I don't know if Nethis is still out, but unfortunately I can't Sculpt around Nethis as well.

Dex saving throw from each of the Witches in the Cauldron Room:

1:  (1d20)[ 1 ] +mods vs DC 13
2:  (1d20)[ 1 ] +mods vs DC 13
3:  (1d20)[ 19 ] +mods vs DC 13
4:  (1d20)[ 7 ] +mods vs DC 13

If they fail, they cannot benefit from Invisibility and everyone has Advantage to attack them if they can see them. Nothing happens if they succeed.

Move Action to move past Hag 7 and get behind Yikkol, provoking an Attack of Opportunity. I may use Shield depending on the roll.

Hag 7 AOO on Zinro:  (1d20)[ 10 ] +mods vs AC 16

If the attack is a guaranteed hit, Zinro's Concentration Check for Faerie Fire (Poisoned does not affect Saving Throws):  (1d20+1)[ 21 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The broken blade erupts into blazing light once more and bori lashes out st the witch beside him.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Bonus action activate sunblade.

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+11)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 25 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
 
TaiLiu
"See? Cackling! An ambush," Yikkol says, before being blasted in the stomach with a sickly green ray. She feels the remains of Bori's snack being sucked out of her windpipe and out of her mouth.

It puddles on the floor. Nasty.

Luckily, the feeling is only temporary. With her left hand, Yikkol wipes her mouth. With her right, she draws a net from her back pocket and takes special aim at Witch #7.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim) with a  +1 Net :  (1d20+9)[ 17 ] . 
 Effect: The witch is  restrained . The witch has disadvantage on attack rolls and Dexterity saves. Attacks against the witch have advantage. 
 Escape: The witch can be freed with an action (DC 10 Strength check) or via 5 points of slashing damage. 
 
dangelo
Witch 4 dies and Witch 2 is bloodied; Witch 7 is restrained; Witches 1 and 2 are outlined by Faerie Fire

Barovian Witches 1 and 2 cast Magic Missile at Asha
1.  (3d4+3)[ 10 ] 
2.  (3d4+3)[ 9 ] 

Barovian Witches 3, 5 and 6 cast Magic Missile at Bori
3.  (3d4+3)[ 14 ] 
5.  (3d4+3)[ 10 ] 
6.  (3d4+3)[ 12 ] 

Barovian Witch 7 tries to free herself
Strength DC 10  (1d20-1)[ 1 ] 

------------

 Cauldron Room
Round Three 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 65/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Bless (Everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Paul takes advantage of the witch next to him being netted as magical missiles fly around the room... healing will be needed, later.... by swinging his mace at her.  He summons another mace, glowing with Pelor's Light, to attack her from the other side.
 
 Spoiler 

#7 is restrained, so advantage.
Mace attack  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  or   (1d20+8)[ 14 ]   +1 from Bless rolled OOC  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  plus  (1d8)[ 7 ]  radiant.

BA Spiritual Weapon (2nd level slot)
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  or   (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 9 ]  force damage.
 Forgot Bless but if a 23 doesn't hit we have problems 
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol grabs her crossbow and aims for an open spot near Witch #7's neck.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 27 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 11 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 3 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 8 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 17 ]  magical piercing. 
 
If the witch still stands, Yikkol will grab a vial of acid and hurl it at the witch before joining the battle next to Herbert. If the witch is dead, Yikkol will first rush up to his Holiness before throwing the vial at Witch #6 instead.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 15 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 1 ] . Ignore the 2nd roll if Yikkol's targeting Witch #6. 
 Damage:  (2d6)[ 4 ]  acid. 
 Move up to Herbert. 
 
"We should probably keep one of them alive," Yikkol says, "so they can unlock the password-protected door for us." It is an afterthought.


EDIT: The crossbow attack hits for 25 magical piercing damage. The acid attack is a 16 if it hits Witch #7 and a 13 if it hits Witch #6. Regardless, 4 acid damage.

EDIT AGAIN: Forgot to add Yikkol’s dexterity mod to the acid. That’s 8 acid damage, not 4.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The motes of dark energy streaking towards Bori and Asha dim slightly as they war with the magic of Bori's Mark, but they'd still both feel it in the morning! Bori leaps across the room yo the surviving witch hexes with faerie fire. His blade lashes out before he turns to try and keep the other witches in sight and focussed on him.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move across room

 (1d20+11)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+11)[ 30 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

The sickness Zinro felt had faded and he felt like he could focus properly again. Moving back into the room, he quietly apologised to the sleeping form of Dot - he'd wake her later - and took up a position behind Herbert. He then flung a Bolt of Fire at the nearest Hag.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Action to move up behind Herbert
Main Action to cast cantrip Fire Bolt at Hag 6: Ranged Spell Attack  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  + Bless  (1d4)[ 3 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 16 ]  Fire Damage.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 1/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Blessed, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
The witches aim magic missiles at Asha, but the warding power of Bori's magic, combined with the protective qualities of the bionoid armor shield him completely. He brings his gauntlets to bear against the closest witch.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 

Bori's aura cut the magic missile damage in half, which amounts to 9 damage total, absorbed by Asha's thp.

  Action   - Attack Witch 2 (with Advantage due to Faerie Fire)
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 25 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  +   Blessed  - (1d4)[ 1 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 11 ] 
  Hit Effect   - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 16 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  +   Blessed  - (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 15 ] 
  Hit Effect   - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
 
dangelo
Herbert and Yikkol defeat Witch 7. Bori defeats Witch 1. Asha defeats Witch 2.

 "The Priest! The Priest is here!"  One of the witches cried from the alchemy room. The one who remaining in the cauldron room suddenly dashed out of there, throwing spells at Herbert. The others did the same.

Barovian Witch 3 casts Magic Missile at Herbert:  (3d4+3)[ 10 ] 

Barovian Witch 5 casts Magic Missile at Herbert:  (3d4+3)[ 12 ] 

Barovian Witch 6 casts Magic Missile at Herbert:  (3d4+3)[ 14 ] 
 Cauldron Room/Alchemy Room
Round 4 

One of the glass windows burst in a thousand pieces, spilling broken glass on the floor. A Lesser Vampire leapt into the chamber; Unlike Sir Theodore and his party, it seemed like this one had completely forgot their past, and was now reduced to a simple-minded beast.

[Perception 18 to notice it's one of the Vampire Spawns you faced at the Heart of Sorrow]

Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  (Disadv. Icon of Ravenloft) for no damage (auto grapple instead)
Claws or Bite, if grappled:  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 24 ]  (Disadv. Icon of Ravenloft) for  (2d4+3)[ 10 ]  (claws) or  (1d6+3)[ 4 ]  +  (2d6)[ 6 ]  (bite)

Almost at the same time, an arrow aimed at Herbert came flying from the darkness, shot by the Ranger who once served Sir Theodore. It was clinging to the stone wall of the tower, unbothered by the rain that fell on its face.

Longbow:  (1d20+6)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  (Disadv. Icon of Ravenloft) for  (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 
Longbow:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  (Disadv. Icon of Ravenloft) for  (1d8+3)[ 7 ] 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the Hags began blasting Herbert with magic missiles, Zinro cried out an Arcane word and one of the missile assaults winked harmlessly out of existence.

Zinro didn't particularly like Herbert, but he appreciated his power and the need for him to continue fighting effectively. He reached out a hand and touched Herbert's pauldron. He muttered some words of power and Herbert was suddenly infused with a great energy and burst of speed.   "Stay strong, priest, for our foes are not yet done. Show them your wrath!"   He commanded.

As this happened, the Faerie Fire in the Cauldron Room fizzled out and the room became dim again.

 
 Spoiler 
Reaction to Counterspell (3rd Level) the 2nd Magic Missile (rolled for which one in OOC).
Staying where I am.
Main Action to cast Haste (3rd Level) on Herbert. Haste: speed is doubled, gain a +2 bonus to AC, advantage on Dexterity saving throws, gain an additional action on each turn. That action can be used only to take the Attack (one weapon attack only), Dash, Disengage, Hide, or Use an Object action.
Faerie Fire ends.
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol watches in horror as the magic missiles curve around her to hit Herbert directly in the chest.

"Dark magic!" she says, wide-eyed. This was heresy, though of the superstitious variety common to the everyday people. Since all magic is woven by the Fates, the official Church line was that dark magic didn't exist.

Yikkol would have submitted herself to the nearest Church priest if she knew. Fortunately, Herbert was not a Church priest, and her beliefs would go undisturbed for some time longer. She draws her sword and tries to stab the vampire attacking his Holiness.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 10 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 2 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 10 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 14 ]  magical piercing. 
 Perception versus DC 18:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] . 
 
Then, seeing Theodore's arrow come flying through the room, Yikkol rushes forward and hurls a vial of holy water at him.

 
 Cunning Action to Disengage closer to Theodore. 
 Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 22 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 3 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 13 ]  radiant. 
 
"Away, away, bloodsucker! Didn't I already best you in marksmanship? Are you back for more?"
J-H
      
   <span style="font-family: Century

Gothic">  Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 41/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Haste (Lord Zinro): speed is doubled, gain a +2 bonus to AC, advantage on Dexterity saving throws, gain an additional action on each turn. That action can be used only to take the Attack (one weapon attack only) 
 Concentrating: Bless (Everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 
 Spoiler: hp 

Starting hp 65
Magic Missile 1 10
#2 counterspelled
#3 14
Vampire spawn misses AC 20 twice
Vampire archer misses AC 20 twice
Final hp 41
 

The Magic Missiles strike home, except for three that vanish in midair, the weave of their spell disrupted by the drow.  The vampires also target Herbert, but the holy emanation of the icon makes it hard for them to aim their strikes at him.  Empowered by Lord Zinro's spell, he swings his mace at the vampire next to him, a swing joined by the glowing sun-like mace of Pelor.  Looking at the archer - the third time they have faced the group, he commands it.   "In Pelor's name, approach!!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Hasted attack  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 5 ]  plus  (1d8)[ 6 ]  radiant from sacred strikes
Spiritual Weapon moves to just north of the vampire and attacks  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 11 ]  force damage
 I forgot Bless on both attacks, but I think they both hit anyway 
Command on the archer vampire for it to approach on its next turn.  Wisdom save DC 16
Vampire Archer wis save  (1d20)[ 19 ]  plus modifiers
Approach. The target moves toward you by the shortest and most direct route, ending its turn if it moves within 5 feet of you.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 1/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Blessed, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility, Icon of Ravenloft 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
Asha and Bori defeat the witches in the room, just as the magical light effect dims. Outside, they can hear commotion and the voices of a witch, Zinro, Herbert and Yikkol ring out. Asha runs into the corridor in time to see an arrow cross the hall towards Herbert. Yikkol moves up and throws a flask of holy water. Asha dials up the thunder disruptors on his gauntlets and lets out a sonic blast at the witches and the vampire in the window.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 4 
  Move   - Move into corridor (through Yikkol's square to avoid OA)
  Action   - Cast Thunder Wave, hitting witches 5 and 6, and the spawn archer in the window
 Spell (DC 17)  - A wave of thunderous force sweeps out from you. Each creature in a 15-foot cube originating from you must make a Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, a creature takes  (2d8)[ 10 ]  thunder damage and is pushed 10 feet away from you. On a successful save, the creature takes half as much damage and isn't pushed.

In addition, unsecured objects that are completely within the area of effect are automatically pushed 10 feet away from you by the spell's effect, and the spell emits a thunderous boom audible out to 300 feet.

  Saving throws, without modifiers  

Witch 5  (1d20)[ 2 ] 
Witch 6  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
Vampire Spawn  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori   
 Keeper's teeth, more of them!   He barrels out of the tower and sees more of the spawn coming. Still without Nethis's speed he lunges at the closest Strahd-spawn, glowing blade weaving complex patterns in the air.

 
 Spoiler: Actions  
Move out of the tower so Herbert is within his aura.

Attack vampire spawn.

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 15 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 2 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 17 ]  radiant

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 21 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 2 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 19 ]  radiant
 
dangelo
A loud  boom  filled the room when Asha pushed the enemies away. No only the Ranger Spawn, but also the Witch who was standing by the window were blown away by the spell. Their figures quickly disappeared in the darkness, their screams died out in the distance. Meanwhile, the vampire would have sustained some more damage, but the light from Bori's sword burned it like acid, and the creature collapsed into a pile of ashes.

The two remaining witches pressed their bodies against the wall and exchanged a look before turning to the fellowship and saying at the same time, with perfect synchrony: "Truce?" A nervous smile crept on both of their faces.
TaiLiu
Yikkol studies the two witches for a moment, trying to figure out if their truce was another trap.

 
 Insight:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] . 
 
Then she shrugs—not her decision—and turns toward Herbert. “What do you think, your Holiness? They know the castle better than we do. Perhaps they could tell us how to get into the tallest tower.”
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro muttered the Arcane words to prepare another Bolt of Fire, but stopped short of releasing the magical energy.

  "At last you come to your senses. We defeated Rahadin, and even Strahd himself. What hope did you think you had? You will surrender your possessions to us, you will open your secret trapdoor, and you will answer our questions about this castle and it's master. Then, and only then, will we  consider  allowing you to live."  
 
 Spoiler 
Zinro will Ready a Fire Bolt to blast one of the Hags if they take any hostile actions towards us
 
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 1/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Blessed, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility, Icon of Ravenloft 
 Concentrating: --  
 
  
The spawn and one of the witches get thrown through the window, plummeting into the darkness screaming. Asha quickly turns his gauntlets to the two remaining witches. They immediately ask for a truce and Zinro speaks,   At last you come to your senses. We defeated Rahadin, and even Strahd himself. What hope did you think you had? You will surrender your possessions to us, you will open your secret trapdoor, and you will answer our questions about this castle and it's master. Then, and only then, will we consider allowing you to live.  

The moment seems like an opportunity to play on Zinro's offer, and coerce the witches into cooperating. Asha doesn't let his arms down, aiming his sonic disruptors at the witches,   Not sure it's worth the trouble Zinro. We should put them both down and move on.  
dangelo
The two witches continued to speak in perfect synchrony:  "No, please! Have mercy, o, mighty heroes! He know the way to the tallest tower, that we do!"  At this point, even their gestures were synched. They sometimes exchanged looks and giggled, and goosebumps of fear made them shiver midsentence, but their performance was mostly flawless.

Finally, only the first hag spoke: "The Great Tower has only two doors:"
The second continued: "One is in the Chapel!"
The first picked up: "The other, in the Catacombs."

They exchanged another look and burst out laughing. Even in their mad laughter, the witches found it in them to say in perfect synchrony again:  "You've been there already! Isn't it hilarious?" 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Your secret trapdoor: what does it contain or where does it lead?"   Zinro remained Readied with his spell.
dangelo
Witch 1: "Well, it leads to the room just below us."
Witch 2: "But you don't wanna go there, no."
Witch 1: "One of the Lord's brides has moved there."
Witch 2: "Strahd hasn't been giving them enough attention..."
Both of them giggle.
Together:  "It leads to a closet, very good for surprise attacks hehe. But if you decide to leave, we can tell the bride no one was ever here, yes we can. You'll be like ghosts! And we'll mind our business normally. She will clean up our sisters' bodies."  They were pointing at one another.  "No, you! You take care of their bodies! No, you! No, you! No, you!" 

They keep repeating that until someone interrupts them.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "What's the passphrase to open it, and does it open from below?"  

Zinro turned back to the group.   "Perhaps this is 'the Tempter'? Perhaps she will attempt to befriend us into attacking her 'husband' for his lack of attention; hence her title?"  
dangelo
Together:  "Knock, knock, knock!"  They mime the gesture of knocking on a door.  "Three times, that's all." 

If requested, Witch 1 will perform the knocking for the fellowship to see. The trapdoor opens, revealing a small closet crammed with expensive pieces of garment. It is dark, but a single door is visible leading out of this closet.
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 1/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Blessed, Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility, Icon of Ravenloft 
 Concentrating: -- 

Asha keeps his gaze on the witches, but nods at Zinro's suggestion,   Worth looking into, assuming they're truthful.  

When the witch walks over and raps on the trapdoor, opening it, Asha says,   How do we know you won't try to ambush us again, and follow us down after we've met with the bride?   
 
  
J-H
Herbert looks around carefully in the alchemy room to see if any of their spell components appear to have come from intelligent beings.
dangelo
 "We won't, no we won't! We'll run to the Svalich Woods and hide in our cave. Then we'll wait until Lord Strahd destroys you, so we can resume our rituals!"  They shook pathetically in fear, exaggerating their reactions in an attempt to survive.

There are all sorts of ingredients in the alchemy room, but in one specific box labeled  "Fine Materials"  there were teeth, bones and fingernails which, by their size, couldn't have been extracted from full-grown adults.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 41/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Haste (Lord Zinro): speed is doubled, gain a +2 bonus to AC, advantage on Dexterity saving throws, gain an additional action on each turn. That action can be used only to take the Attack (one weapon attack only) 
 Concentrating: Bless (Everyone) 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert pales slightly, then picks up the box, his hand digging into it.  He silently shows it to Asha and anyone else in the room, then puts it back.  He walks behind one of the witches, gripping his mace.   "Some crimes..."  he swings it twice at her head.
 
 Spoiler 

Haste is still up, I think, and Bless too.
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 6 ]  magic bludgeoning
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 8 ]  magic bludgeoning
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As Herbert smashed the two Hags to the ground, Zinro let out a sigh, but thought better of expressing his displeasure at the elimination of potential future assets. Instead, he decided to take a more pragmatic approach:   "Perhaps we should take a short rest here? To be better prepared to meet this 'bride'?"  
Dr.Samurai
      
      Asha    
 Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 
 AC: 23 HP: 97/103 THP: 1/10 
 PPer: 16 PInv: 19 PIns: 12  
 Conditions: Immune to Surprise, Adv on Init, Necklace of Adaptation, See Invisibility, Icon of Ravenloft 
 Concentrating: -- 

It can't be seen beneath his bionoid armor, but Asha's eyes go wide as Herbert shows him the tiny bones and teeth the witches have procured. He turns in time to see the priest brain both of the witches, still empowered by Zinro's magic that grants him improved speed. He nods grimly at Herbert, but turns back to the trap door for any signs that the commotion was heard from the room the closet was adjoined to. He doesn't notice anything. He stands from the hatch and lets out a breath,   This place is truly cursed.  

Zinro suggests they rest before heading through the closet, and Asha nods in agreement.   I'll stay here near the trap door, just in case.   
 
  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro first went to wake up Dot, and placed her back on his shoulder. He then began to rest, mend his clothes, and clean the blood and dust from himself. Once rested, he held aloft his Pearl of Power, speaking the command word and allowing the magical energies of the Pearl to replenish his own stocks of magic energy.

  "So, do we attempt to simply ambush the bride or do we think a dialogue is in order here?"  
 
 Spoiler 
Spent 3 HD to heal, Arcane Recovery a 4th and 1st level slot. Using Pearl of Power to recover a 3rd level slot.
 
J-H
 Herbert 
Herbert takes the bones and other parts, says a blessing over them, and then finds an appropriate container and places them in his pack to bury later, preferably on hallowed ground.

Yikkol's salves do much to aid with the burns from the magic missiles.
 
 Spoiler 

Yikkol healing  (1d6+14)[ 18 ] 
Plus 2 HD  (2d8+4)[ 12 ]  during the short rest, and use CD to get back 1 second level spell slot
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Finally, only the first hag spoke: "The Great Tower has only two doors:"
The second continued: "One is in the Chapel!"
The first picked up: "The other, in the Catacombs."

They exchanged another look and burst out laughing. Even in their mad laughter, the witches found it in them to say in perfect synchrony again:  "You've been there already! Isn't it hilarious?"  
 

Yikkol wrinkles her nose. Both the Chapel and the Catacombs must be well-defended by now. Perhaps a climb to the top or an explosive trap to the outside walls would be best.


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 Zinro turned back to the group.   "Perhaps this is 'the Tempter'? Perhaps she will attempt to befriend us into attacking her 'husband' for his lack of attention; hence her title?"   
 

 The Tempter! I see a secret place—a vault of temptation, hidden behind a woman of great beauty. 

"It is a secret place," Yikkol admits. "We should check."

The half-orc has doubts about whether this place was really behind the bride. But it was close enough that she had to make sure.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 There are all sorts of ingredients in the alchemy room, but in one specific box labeled  "Fine Materials"  there were teeth, bones and fingernails which, by their size, couldn't have been extracted from full-grown adults. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert pales slightly, then picks up the box, his hand digging into it.  He silently shows it to Asha and anyone else in the room, then puts it back.  He walks behind one of the witches, gripping his mace.   "Some crimes..."  he swings it twice at her head. 
 

"Well done, your holiness! Another blow against evil!"

Yikkol looks at the box against and shivers, involuntarily reminded of her children. They were about this size—but then she remembers that they haven't been that size for years. It's been so long. Would bringing home Strahd's skull really be worth it?


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
 As Herbert smashed the two Hags to the ground, Zinro let out a sigh, but thought better of expressing his displeasure at the elimination of potential future assets. Instead, he decided to take a more pragmatic approach:   "Perhaps we should take a short rest here? To be better prepared to meet this 'bride'?"   
 

Yikkol agrees and passes around her healing salve for all to use, offering it to his holiness first.

 
 Healer's Kit: Recover  (1d6+14)[ 17 ]  hit points. 
 If needed, spend a hit die or two to recover  (1d8+2)[ 6 ]   and  (1d8+2)[ 4 ]   hit points. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "So, do we attempt to simply ambush the bride or do we think a dialogue is in order here?"   
 

"I would prefer an ambush," Yikkol says. "She is likely under Strahd's thrall. What would be the purpose of talking?"
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  97/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2 (Advantage)
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  5/5
 Active Effects:  Immune to Surprise, Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  1/4 
  
 
  

Asha speaks softly so as not to alert anyone below or around as the group rests,   I think Zinro may have an interesting idea Yikkol. If the bride feels mistreated, she may be inclined to help us to spite Strahd. May be worth speaking to her before we come to blows.  
 
 Spoiler: Short Rest 
Activate another Defensive Field to top off Temp HP. Use Spell-Refueling Ring to recover 3rd level slot spent on Upcast Shatter.
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol relents.

“An enemy is Strahd is a friend of ours. Very well. We’ll try it Zinro’s way first.”
dangelo
If the party goes back to the staircase and heads to the floor below:

 You come to a dark landing ten feet wide and twenty feet long. A cold draft of wind rushes down the spiral staircase at the north end of the east wall and whistles mournfully through the room before streaming down the stairs to the south.

An ornate, square rug covers the floor to the south. Set into the west wall is an ironbound wooden door with a wooden trapdoor set into the floor in front of it. Hanging on the north wall above the trapdoor is a framed portrait of a handsome, well-dressed man with a serene yet penetrating gaze. He looks alive and full of energy, even if pale. 
 
 Spoiler 
   
 

 As thunder shakes the tower, heavy beams groan under the weight of the ceiling. Three ornate lanterns hang by chains from these beams, each casting a dim glow. The curved west wall is fitted with three windows of leaded glass in steel latticework. A bookcase sits on the east wall between two doors. Plush, overstuffed chairs and couches are placed about the room. The fabric has faded with age, and the patterns it depicts are nearly gone. Lounging on one couch is a handsome young man whose attire, while elegant, is worn and faded. 
 
 Spoiler 
 
  
 
 


In a corner of the room, an enchanted violin played by itself. Strahd's bride lounged in his comfortable couch, his eyes trailing off into the view of the window. "My lord, my master, my sire, what is it that I've done that earned your contempt? My heart is broken. My spirit is cold. I can't find relief in these quiet, empty nights, not without your attention."

The handsome young man announced his words to the music of the violin, as if it was poetry. He didn't even seem to notice the fellowship until he said: "Even now, as my haven is stormed by these strangers... Part of me wants to kill them to earn your attention," His eyes visited each of their faces. "Part of me wants to let them destroy me. Will I find peace, then?"

He looked right into their eyes, but seemed to see right through them. "My love for you is so powerful, that I'm afraid it might haunt me even in the afterlife, when my body is nothing but ashes, and my identity is nothing but a memory. Lingering in the memories of those who loved me... Until they die, or forget me, and I will return to a state of nothingness. Is that the relief I seek, my lord?"

He stood from the couch and begged to the fellowship, his eyes full of bloody tears. "Please, answer me! I can't do this anymore!"
TaiLiu
Yikkol wrinkles her nose at this display of weakness. To be so attached to that bloodsucker—pathetic. Couldn't he see that Strahd didn't care about him?

But she couldn't help feeling jealous. What she would give to have her lover pine for her the same way, after all these years... To have her children run to her and cry, "Mommy! Mommy!" But that was a distant dream, over a decade and a world away.

It hurts to think about. She felt angry. This isn't even where the treasure is! As the vampire turns toward the party, she points her crossbow at his heart.

"You wanna die, bloodsucker? You want peace? Then stand still and let his holiness put you out of your misery."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro regarded the bride with disgust. Disgust at their pathetic melodramatic performance and their ungratefulness at the gifts they had been given, as well as the lack of action to do something about it.

  "If you wish to be at peace, we can certainly assist you with that."   Zinro said, mirroring Yikkol's statement, albeit perhaps a little more diplomatically.   "Although if you really want to get your lord's attention you should do something unexpected; such as helping us or even attacking him. That will surely get his attention and surely draw his anger. But is anger not just another form of love? What better gift to give a husband than to make him feel something he hasn't felt since he was alive?"  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori slumps down against the wall. When the witches had surrendered he had felt his spirits lighten, maybe this place wouldn't monsters out of them. He had been wrong, the witches had done terrible things and had had to be slaughtered, but he felt less and less hope that that could bring light and safety to Barovia.

He mechanically prepares some food for the group, even that familiar task failing to lighten his mood.

Even numb as he was, he couldn't help but feel a pang if sympathy at the obvious pain in the man before them, even if he was a monster.

 I'm sorry, but Strahd seems more interested in us than you. I think that caravan has set off, but the end of one relationship does not mean an end for you. You are better than him .  almost impossible not to be , he thought.  We might be able to help you escape this place if you help us. 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
On 58/97 - now on full

Yikkol healing
 (1d6+14)[ 18 ] 
2 HD
 (2d10+4)[ 16 ] 
Bonus from chef
 (1d8)[ 2 ] 

Persuasion
 (1d20+8)[ 10 ]  Plus  (1d4)[ 3 ] 
 
dangelo
The vampire heard their words with attention. He moved rather slowly, like a creature who had been dead for so long that it forgot how it was to be alive. His eyes didn't blink, his hair didn't glow, his fingernails were pale and his skin seemed made of wax. His eyes went from Bori to Ziro and Yikkol, weighing on the options given. He seemed as much inclined as accepting Yikkol's bolt to the chest as to betray his master for his attention.

"You say... To assist you? I could never strike my master, no matter the motivation. If you see in me a soldier for war, I'm sorry to inform you I am not. I am a poet, a musician, an enthusiast of the fine arts, of everything that's beautiful. I know nothing of bloodshedding, of killing or dying or waging war. I apologize, but I believe you will have no other option but to destroy me."
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  15  | HP:  97/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  5/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  1/4 
  
 
  

Asha steps forward, closer to the vampire, and the strange organic plates of his armor begin to crack and hiss and lift from his form, turning into each other and folding until he is holding the bionoid crystal in his hand and his elvish features are revealed,   You seem lonely enough without surrounding you and threatening violence. What is your name?  

When the bride provides his name, Asha replies,   Well met. I am Aelki Ruasha, Void Knight of the Star Oceans. It seems Strahd has plucked me from the void to this forlorn place.   He pauses, as if in thought, then says,   I know something of what you feel. I was once a revered hero of my people, risking life and limb against impossible odds in faraway spheres. Whenever we returned home, we were greeted with cheers and adoration. We were loved. I... was loved.   His eyes take on a faraway look, as if he is seeing something that isn't there,   What a vicious cycle it became, one we didn't know we were caught in. Spelljam to a distant sphere, fight the hard fight, come home and be loved. Do it again, fighting harder and harder fights, doing things you didn't know you were capable of, return home for more adoration and medals and glories. Over and over. Until... the cycle was over. The war won, the fights over. Except this time there weren't cheering crowds waiting for us when we returned home. Stories spread about what we did to win the war, what our victories required. We were no longer heroes. No longer loved. Just... discarded.   His eyes are wide, but still faraway, until suddenly he blinks and his eye focus back on the room, and on the bride.

A moment passes,   It was almost a mercy to be brought here, if only to escape the constant running from the scorn and derision of my people. But Strahd had other things in mind than a refuge.  
  Why do you think you have lost his affection? Has something else caught his eye?  
dangelo
The vampire listened with attention, awed with the idea of catching his lord's attention. But when asked questions, he bared his teeth and gnarled loudly. For just a moment, the true face of the beast was visible over his handsome features. "I will tell you nothing of Lord Strahd!" He hissed, but calmed down fast. "He  has  been angry since your arrival. Perhaps I am to... Consider this."

The bloody tears stained the cuffs of his vest, but his expression was completely different now. He looked almost excited. "Were I to answer your questions? Reveal you the secrets of this castle, and guide you to the place where he sleeps?" He asked, weighing the risks in his head. "I will not leave these chambers, however.  And  I have one demand: the blood of the Priest. Let me take one sip of his blood, and I will accept your devilish deal."
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert looks at the vampire.  An unholy monster, but also a pitiful figure, chasing something he can never have, wholly misguided.   "No."   Perhaps it would be better to put it out of its misery.

There is much evil in this place... and much wasted due to folly.  How does the saying from a holy book he once saw go?    The heart is deceitful above all things, or something similar.

 "You have been misled and tricked, with false promises that appeal to your pride and your emotions.  You will never get what you want from the lord of this castle.  Are you familiar with his past deeds?  He is a cruel master, using and discarding his people like tools.  Even now, the humans he supposedly rules over must beg and steal simply to feed themselves.   Are you willing to consider changing your beliefs?  If so, I have a copy of the Book of Light that I can give you to read, and we can move on.  Perhaps you can seek Pelor in your own way - for if you do not, your heart will lead you to your doom."   As he speaks, the lights in the room burn brighter.

 
 Spoiler 

Persuasion  (1d20+5)[ 18 ]  I think?
+ Thaumaturgy
 
dangelo
The vampire lost interest in Herbert as soon as he said the word "no". Only his etiquette brought him to listen to the words of the Priest till the end. When if was his turn to speak, the bride simply shrugged. "I want the Paladin's, then." He pointed at Bori. "The blood of a saint is the most potent and delicious of all. Let me have a sip, and promise me you'll tell Lord Strahd it was I who aided you - then I will reveal what you need to know about the castle."
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  97/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  5/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  1/4 
  
 
  

Asha's attempt to relate to the bride falls on deaf ears. The creature is truly a wretch, now obsessed with slaking its thirst for blood. No wonder a creature like this cannot hold Strahd's attention for long. He backs away from the bride and presses the crystal back to his chest. The fibers and muscles and strange chitinous plates expand and envelop the elf in his recognizable armor. Asha speaks, his voice now taking on a tinny quality through the helmet,   We have survived the castle this far. We can and will destroy you, as we've done to the other undead wretches in this place. You've no leverage here. Tell us what you know, and then we'll decide if we want to reciprocate.  
dangelo
The vampire seems completely uninterested in hid own survival. When it becomes clear that the fellowship won't close a deal with him, he bared his fangs and hissed loudly, raising his claws ready to attack.

 Guest Chamber
Round One 
 Owlbear 


The fellowship goes first
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert's holy symbol glows as the vampire decides that he would rather follow his instincts to a swift death than seek change.
 
 Spoiler 

Word of Radiance  (2d6)[ 8 ] + (1d8)[ 4 ]  radiant damage, Con DC 16 negates
Vampire Con save  (1d20)[ 13 ] +??
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the depressed vampire suddenly turns hostile, Zinro flings a Bolt of Fire at him and then moves behind Asha for protection.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to Cast Cantrip Fire Bolt: Ranged Spell Attack  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 14 ]  Fire Damage.
Move Action to move behind Asha
 
TaiLiu
"His holiness offered you a way out," Yikkol says. "You should've taken it."

She shoots.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim):  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 11 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 15 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 25 ]  magical piercing. 
 

EDIT: 40 total damage.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  97/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  5/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  1/4 
  
 
  

None are willing to give their blood to the wretched vampire and the battle ensues. Asha moves forward and enters into a brawl with the vampire.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Move Action   - Move adjacent to the vampire.
  Action   - Attack action vs the vampire.
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 29 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
 Hit Effect  - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 24 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
 Hit Effect  - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Boriwas almost swayed to let the pathetic vampire drink his blood, so desperate was he to look for a sign of hope in this dark place. But the creature soon showed it's true nature. Maybe that was the only hopeful thing here, they couldn't make anything worse than it already was, that there was no guilt in destroying all they came across here.

Almost all trace of his usual jovial nature is gone as he wordlessly screams at the creature, leaping onto the seat with it to be better able to take its head.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 12 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 21 ]  radiant

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 25 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 16 ]  radiant

Smite on a crit
 
dangelo
The vampire was a sturdy creature. Whatever Strahd did to his brides, it made them tougher and stronger than his regular Spawns. While any other Lesser Vampire would have been destroyed by the fellowship's first assault, this one managed to survive long enough to keep fighting for a little while.

But instead of fighting back, the vampire was suddenly struck with the urge of throwing itself off the window, shattering the stained glass in a million pieces. The cold wind immediately started howling into the chamber, and a dark silhouette became visible in the night, flying in the air just outside the tower.

 "Escher!"  Cried the infuriated voice of Strahd von Zarovich. His eyes glowed bright orange and a tiny fireball materialized between his hands.  "Weak! Traitor! You lost the right to serve me, pathetic little child!" 

"No, master! Please! I love you, I always have!" Bloody tears sprouted from Escher's eyes again. "I beg you, my lord! Forgive me..."

Only the sound of wind and rain and the whooshing of the fireball in Strahd's hands broke the silence when he said:  "No." 

The fiery projectile flew from Strahd's fingertips, landed on the interior of the tower and exploded in a whirlwind of flames. Hell was unleashed in that tower for a brief couple of seconds, engulfing both the fellowship and the bride Escher.

--------

Escher takes the Disengage action.

 Guest Chamber
Round Two 

Strahd casts Fireball with a 5th level spell slot

Reflex saves (DC 18 for half)
Herbert:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
Yikkol:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Bori:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
Zinro:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 

Escher:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 

Damage:  (10d8)[ 47 ] 

Zinro is the only one outside Bori's aura.
Escher is destroyed.
TaiLiu
There is nowhere to dive for cover. Yikkol is immediately engulfed in the flames, and though they quickly dissipate, the fire has enough time to hurt.

She squints through the rain. Strahd is hovering in the air, far off. A terrible tactical advantage.

"Let's retreat," Yikkol says. "We won't kill him while he's outside. Let's head back up, anyway from any windows."

She returns to the stairs and begins to go up.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro dived for cover as the Fireball rocked the tiny room. Being at the back of the group, and reacting quickly, he managed to avoid the brunt of the blast, but the fire still seared into his back. Dot, once again, was destroyed.

He was surprised at Yikkol's clear thinking for a change. Normally she'd be rushing to attack the lord of this castle, but instead she had chosen to make a tactical retreat. A move Zinro heartily agreed with. Dusting himself off, he ran to catch up with her.

 
 Spoiler 
Dot is destroyed. Zinro will use his Movement/Actions to follow Yikkol.
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert burns with frustration.  He wants to strike Strahd down, but in the rain where he can flee at any time is  not  the place to do it.   "Good idea,"  he calls after Yikkol.  This situation calls for decisive action, not discussion by committee.  He follows her to the stairs.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  1/4 
  
 
  

The group barely has time to avoid the fireball as Strahd ambushes both the party and his discarded bride. The despairing vampire is annihilated in an explosion of light and fire. Bori's protective ward dampens the Count's intense magic, and the bionoid armor does the rest to protect Asha from the brunt of the heat. He glares at Strahd, the intent clear; he wants the rematch, right here and now, completely on his terms. None take Strahd up on the offer, and Asha moves to leave with the rest of the group.

 
 Spoiler 
Use Flash of Insight to increase his saving throw.
Asha takes half damage (23), but Bori's Aura cuts that in half again (11). Asha loses 10thp and takes 1 damage.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Blinded by rage and frustration, Bori didn't notice the incoming spell until it was too late. He barely had time to cover his eyes before the heat seared him, damped only by the blazing light of his mark. His eyes widened in shock as the vampire in front if him disintegrated.

He glanced out of the window in disbelief.  He's mad, completely mad! 

Coming to his senses slightly he follows the group.  Keep going, I'll be at thr back incase he sends another one! 
dangelo
 "How dare you steal my brother's relic..."  His voice echoed all over the valley of Barovia. Even as they left the guest room and vanished into the staircase, Strahd's voice still echoed through the stone walls.  "From the tomb I made for him, in my own castle! How did it return after I had it cursed and destroyed is beyond my understanding, but I will destroy it again, and again, until its reduced to dust if necessary." 
 "You hear me, Sergei? We're done! You can't punish me forever!"  His voice blasted from the outside of the tower. No one but Bori would notice, but the Sunsword resonated with its wielder at this moment. The paladin felt a surge of energy coming from the blade, and caught a glimpse of the courage and might of the legendary paladin Sergei von Zarovich. Even such a tiny fragment of his soul was greater than any paladin that ever walked this earth.  "I will kill you like I did three hundred years ago, but this time you shall be destroyed forever!" 

Bori, Asha, Herbert, Yikkol and Zinro rushed back to the staircase and past the portrait of young Strahd. Similarly to the Guards' Staircase, this one connected several floors through identical doors to the right, while the stairs kept spiralling left. Soon they reached the floor below the Guest Chambers, but the way down was blocked by another vampire.

This one was a woman of horrible beauty, or some kind of monstrous fascination that passed for beauty for a woman who had been cold dead for such a long time. Her skin was dark like ebony, which clashed vibrantly against her silk white dress. Her fingernails were painted white, although they had now shifted into long, cruel claws.

"You won't reach the bottom of the castle!" Her voice carried a thick foreign accent. "I don't know why you wish so ardently to reach the top of the High Tower, and those hags might have betrayed us and told you the way... But this ends now!

-----------

 Staircase
Round 1 

Initiative:

- Yikkol and Zinro (any order)
- Bride 1
- Asha, Bori, Herbert (any order)

Before we start, please determine your marching order. The staircase is only one square wide and it's Difficult Terrain to climb up or down.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 This one was a woman of horrible beauty, or some kind of monstrous fascination that passed for beauty for a woman who had been cold dead for such a long time. Her skin was dark like ebony, which clashed vibrantly against her silk white dress. Her fingernails were painted white, although they had now shifted into long, cruel claws.

"You won't reach the bottom of the castle!" Her voice carried a thick foreign accent. "I don't know why you wish so ardently to reach the top of the High Tower, and those hags might have betrayed us and told you the way... But this ends now! 
 

"Damn it," Yikkol says. "How many vampires has Strahd married?"

She uses the tall, narrow staircase to her advantage. Yikkol leaps over her teammates, kicks the wall at just the right time, and dives down onto the vampire woman to put her in a chokehold.

 
 Movement, using her Cunning Action if necessary. 
 Athletics to grapple her:  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] . 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As a mage, it only made sense for Zinro to be towards the back of the adventuring group; however this fact was problematic when faced with a foe that was blocking a narrow passageway that Zinro couldn't see. He had no desire to close into melee combat, especially trying to push past the bulky forms of his allies, and so he settled for preparing to blast the next foe he could see with a bolt of fire.

 
 Spoiler 
Stay where I am.
Main Action to Ready a Fire Bolt, which Zinro will fling at the first hostile he sees.
 
Dr.Samurai
[QUOTE=Dr.Samurai;25948395]      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  
  Give it up, you've no chance against us!   Asha calls out, raising his thunder gauntlets up toward the vampire. Yikkol is suddenly leaping down from above and wrestling the bride. Asha takes the opportunity to activate the final charge of his Defensive Field, and then unloads a burst of light at the vampire.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
I'm assuming there isn't space to engage the vampire in melee with Yikkol grappling.

  Bonus Action   - Defensive Field - Asha gains 10 Temporary Hit Points
  Action   - Cast Sacred Flame vs Vampire
 Damage  -   Radiant  - (2d8)[ 9 ] , Reflex Save DC 17 (no benefit from Cover)
 
dangelo
[Bride 1 takes 20 damage from sunlight (Bori's sword) and her Regeneration is nulled for this round.]

The bride was happy to engage in a grapple with Yikkol, baring her fangs at the rogue. She was still quick enough to yank herself out of the way of Asha's sacred spell, still lashing her claws at Yikkol.

Bride 1
2 attacks:

Claws:  (1d20+5)[ 8 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 20 ]  (Icon of Ravenloft)
If it lands, will forsake de damage to immediately grapple.

If grappled, Bite. If not, Claws:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 17 ]  (Icon of Ravenloft)
If Bite, then  (1d6+3)[ 9 ]  piercing +  (2d6)[ 7 ]  necrotic damage. If Claws, will forsake the damage to immediately grapple.

From the way the fellowship had come from, another female vampire in a fancy dress came dashing down the stairs. This one was pale like paper, and wore a dress made of faded cloth-of-gold and a mysterious bone mask. Only her female lips (and monster fangs) were visible under the mask.

[Since Zinro is the last one, Bride 2 will target him. Her stealth (21) succeeds against his Perception (19), so the disadvantage from the Icon of Ravenloft and the advantage from surprise attack cancel each other out]

[Bride 2 triggers Zinro's readied Fire Bolt]

Bride 2
2 attacks:

Claws:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
If it lands, will forsake de damage to immediately grapple.

If grappled, Bite. If not, Claws:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
If Bite, then  (1d6+3)[ 9 ]  piercing +  (2d6)[ 11 ]  necrotic damage. If Claws, will forsake the damage to immediately grapple.
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
"May the light of Pelor protect you!"  Herbert cries out to Zinro.  Holy flames descend around the vampire attacking him.
 
 Spoiler 

Sacred Flame, Dex DC 16 negates,  (3d8)[ 12 ]  radiant damage.
Bride 2 Dex  (1d20)[ 10 ] +??
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori rolls past the masked bride, hoping to distract her from attacking Zinro. He feels the presence of Sergei within the glowing blade. Maybe there was some light and hope here after all? The light swelled further from him and he lashes out at the bride.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move through Zinro's and the bride's spaces.

Bonus, increase sunlight aura from 15ft to 20ft.

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 25 ]  for [roll]1
2d8+7[/roll]

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 12 ] 
 
TaiLiu
None of the vampire’s desperate scratching finds purchase, in part thanks to Herbert’s Icon.

The Fates guide her as Yikkol attempts to slam the foreign-sounding bride onto the stairway, keeping her chokehold all the while. With her other hand, she pulls out a vial of holy water and splashes it onto the bride’s face.

 
 Yikkol maintains the grapple. 
 Athletics to knock her prone:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] . 
 Cunning Action (Use an Object):  (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  
 Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 8 ]  radiant. 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro barely had time to let loose the Fire Bolt he had been preparing  when the bride had sunk her teeth into him. Once again, he could feel his life force being drained away as he cried out.

 Zinro looked bloodied.  
 As Bori approached to assist,  the intense sunlight from Sergei's blade made Zinro's eyes water. He knew that the light would be harmful to the vampires, but as a citizen of the Underdark, the light hurt him too.

He had to put distance between himself, the bride, and Bori's sunlight.  He briefly uttered the arcane words used to travel and, as usual, disappeared from reality with a  pop , appearing further down the staircase and behind Herbert. 

He moved the short distance to be behind Asha, as he was attacking the bride at the bottom. Despite her being on the ground, Zinro attempted to blast her with a Fire Bolt anyway.

 
 Spoiler 
Readied Action Fire Bolt on Bride 2,  Disadvantage because 5ft  ranged attack:  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  or   (1d20+8)[ 14 ]   for  (2d10+4)[ 16 ]  Fire Damage.

 Bonus Action to cast Misty Step (2nd Level) and teleport behind Herbert, which will escape the grapple. 
Move Action to continue down the stairs to be behind Asha and hopefully (due to the spiral staircase) outside the range of Sunlight.
Main Action to cast Cantrip Fire Bolt at Bride 1. Disadvantage because Bride 1 is prone (or at least, is almost certainly prone, if they aren't just take the first roll):  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 19 ]  Fire Damage.
 
dangelo
Strahd suddenly phased through the stone wall, his cloak trailing after him like gigantic bat wings as he flew into the staircase. The sunlight immediately burned his eyes, and he covered himself with his cloak as he cast another fireball. The next moment, Strahd disappeared through the opposite wall, flying away from the sunlight.

The fireball hits Asha, Zinro, Herbert and Bori. Asha is outside Bori's Aura.

Dex save (DC 18)
Asha:  (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
Zinro:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Herbert:  (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
Bori:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 

Fireball damage (5th level):  (10d6)[ 34 ]  fire damage.

[The vampire takes 20 radiant damage when it starts its turn in sunlight. Strahd only moved through sunlight, so no damage.]

[Bride 1 takes 20 damage from sunlight (Bori's sword) and her Regeneration is nulled for this round.]
[Bride 2 takes 20 damage from sunlight (Bori's sword) and her Regeneration is nulled for this round.]

 Bride 1  attacks Yikkol twice:

Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  (Icon of Ravenloft, Prone)
If it lands, will forsake de damage to immediately grapple.

If grappled, Bite. If not, Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 24 ]  (Icon of Ravenloft, Prone)
If Bite, then  (1d6+3)[ 4 ]  piercing +  (2d6)[ 11 ]  necrotic damage. If Claws, will forsake the damage to immediately grapple.

 Bride 2  attacks Bori twice

Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 12 ]  (Icon of Ravenloft) for  (1d6+3)[ 7 ]  piercing +  (2d6)[ 6 ]  necrotic damage.

Claw:  (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  (Icon of Ravenloft) for  (2d4+3)[ 7 ]  slashing damage.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro could barely see Strahd's silhouette framed against the blazing sunlight of the Sun Sword, but he could see just enough for him to see the vampire lord to begin weaving the necessary Arcane powers to throw a huge ball of fire at them. Zinro knew he probably wouldn't survive being hit by such a force, and channelled all his energy into interrupting the spell's process.

 
 Spoiler 
Reaction to cast Counterspell at 5th Level. If the Fireball is 5th Level or lower, it is Countered. Otherwise I need to make a Spellcrafting Ability Check:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  vs DC 10 + Spell Level.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha's eyes go wide as Strahd phases into the stairwell and has them dead to rights with a massive ball of fire. Before they are immolated, Lord Zinro counters the magical attack and Strahd continues back through the wall vanishing from sight.

  Nice work Zinro!   Asha calls out before rushing forward and tag-teaming the bride with Yikkol.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
  Move   - Move adjacent to Bride 1.
  Action   - Attack Bride 1 w/Advantage (Prone)
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 21 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 17 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 23 ] ,  (1d20+11)[ 13 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
  Hit Effect   - A creature hit by the gauntlet has disadvantage on attack rolls against targets other than you until the start of your next turn, as the armor magically emits a distracting pulse when the creature attacks someone else.
 
dangelo
Legendary action: Right after Asha's turn, Strahd phases through the walls the opposite way. Again, he ends his movement outside the tower, using the opportunity to assess the battlefield without exposing himself to sunlight.
J-H
 Herbert lays a glowing hand upon Zinro, healing him of many of his injuries.
 
 Spoiler 

3rd level Cure Wounds  (3d8+9)[ 30 ] 
Heals Herbert 3hp.
 
 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert conjures a sun-headed mace to smite the vampire behind them in Pelor's name, striking her in the face.  Unfortunately, she still dodges the flaming light from his shield.
 
 Spoiler 

Spiritual Weapon BA  (1d20+8)[ 28 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 9 ]  force damage
Sacred Flame  (3d8)[ 18 ]  radiant, Dex DC 15 negates
Dex save  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 Thanks Zinro ! Bori yells as Strahd phases through the walls. They'd be sitting ducks if they couldn't clear this corridor

  Gey off me!  He hacked at the bride holding him, feeding the energy from Sergei with some of his own.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 20 ] 

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 17 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 13 ] 

Adding a level 1 smite to each attack if he hits  (3d8)[ 12 ]  and  (3d8)[ 15 ]  Radiant
 
dangelo
Legendary action 2: Right after Herbert's turn, Strahd phases through the walls the opposite way. Again, he ends his movement outside the tower, using the opportunity to assess the battlefield without exposing himself to sunlight.

Legendary action 3: Right after Bori's turn, Strahd phases through the walls the opposite way. Again, he ends his movement outside the tower, using the opportunity to assess the battlefield without exposing himself to sunlight.
dangelo
A third bride came running up the stairs behind Yikkol, lashing her claws at the rogue. This one wore a crimson red dress  of excellent taste, or it could have been a hundred years ago. Her features betrayed her origins - the high nobility of Vallaki, a city that once had belonged to the Valley of Barovia, but had been lost on the other side of the Mist, out of the reach of Strahd's malice.

Bride 3 stealth (15) succeeds against Yikkol's Perception (14)
Icon of Ranveloft and surprise attack cancel each other out

Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
If it's a hit, will forsake the damage to instantly grapple.

If grappled, Bite. If not, Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
If Bite:  (1d6+3)[ 6 ]  piercing +  (2d6)[ 4 ]  necrotic damage

&gt;end of round 2

 Staircase
Round 3 

&gt;Yikkol and Zinro, any order
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

The party were in a precarious spot, sandwiched between several vampires with Strahd seeming to be able to phase through the very walls at will.

They had to clear a path to safety, and so Zinro uttered some Arcane words and pointed to a spot just around the staircase. A small orange bead flew from his outstretched finger.

As the resulting Fireball exploded, Zinro wove the explosion around Yikkol, Asha, and himself; keeping them safe.

 
 Spoiler 
Nowhere to move to.
Main Action to cast Fireball at 3rd Level, Sculpt Spell around Yikkol, Asha, and Zinro. Hitting Bride 1 and 3. Dex save for half.

Bride 1 Dex Save:  (1d20)[ 4 ] +mods vs DC 16
Bride 3 Dex Save:  (1d20)[ 10 ] +mods vs DC 16

For  (8d6+4)[ 34 ]  Fire Damage
 
dangelo
Those who were fighting in the staircase momentarily heard the battle cry of Sergei von Zarovich. His spirit sang in victory as the sunsword cut through the neck of the second bride, and her boddy immediately collapsed in a pile of ashes. Her death cry was suppressed, but Strahd and the other two brides felt her loss deep in their hearts, such was the power of the blood.

 "VOLENTAAAAAA!"  Cried the voice of Strahd von Zarovich. While losing Rahadin had affected his pride, losing Volenta caused him pain. The foundations of Castle Ravenloft shook underneath their feet.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  Bride 1  attacks Yikkol twice. 
 

It is a close call, but Yikkol manages to keep the vampire bride's claws away from her. She draws her sword and thrusts  it into the throat of the vampire.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] , whichever is higher. 
 Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 13 ]  and  (5d6)[ 21 ]  magical piercing. 
 
EDIT: 34 damage total.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 A third bride came running up the stairs behind Yikkol, lashing her claws at the rogue. This one wore a crimson red dress  of excellent taste, or it could have been a hundred years ago. Her features betrayed her origins - the high nobility of Vallaki, a city that once had belonged to the Valley of Barovia, but had been lost on the other side of the Mist, out of the reach of Strahd's malice. 
 

This new vampire, however, successfully puts Yikkol in a chokehold. With her free hand, Yikkol pulls out a vial of alchemist's fire and tries desperately to smash it against the noblewoman's face.

 
 Cunning Action (Use an Object):  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 11 ] , whichever is lower. ☹️ 
 Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 7 ]  fire damage at the start of their every turn. They can use an action to make a Dexterity save versus DC 10 to extinguish the flames. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  "VOLENTAAAAAA!"  Cried the voice of Strahd von Zarovich. While losing Rahadin had affected his pride, losing Volenta caused him pain. The foundations of Castle Ravenloft shook underneath their feet. 
 

Yikkol manages to say, between struggling breaths: "Well... done... your... holiness!" She does not know it was Bori who dealt the killing blow.

EDIT: Her alchemical attack misses.
dangelo
 "LUDMILLA, NO!"  Cried Strahd and his only remaining bride. The shaking grew more intense, almost to the point of an earthquake, and even the rats ran away from their hideouts.  "ENOUGH!" 

Strahd's cloaked figure emerged from the walls again, this time flying down the staircase rather than perpendicular to it. He flew right above their heads, and dove suddenly to snatch the remaining bride and carry her away from battle.

A flock of bats materialized from his cloak, allowing him a stealthy escapade. As soon as he was beyond Zinro's line of sight, the vampire cast Dimension Door and disappeared with his bride.

End of combat
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Despite being a military veteran longer than many humans have been alive, Asha finds himself unmoving, taken completely by surprise by Strahd's fury, appearance, and interference in the combat. The vampire count rushes in within a swarm of bats, grabs his remaining bride, and teleports away. Asha remains in his defensive position a moment longer before snapping back into action, checking the others up the stairs and then rushing to Yikkol's side, who had been wrestling with the brides,   Yikkol are you okay?   He looks back towards the others and calls out,   How is everyone?  
TaiLiu
Now freed from the bride's chokehold, Yikkol takes a deep breath of air and rubs her sore neck. Vampires were terribly strong.

"Your holiness? Should we continue moving?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Well fought everyone. I had no idea Strahd could pass through the very walls! That's something we must surely look out for the next time we encounter him. I am injured, but not terribly; thankfully Bori kept me safe from the bride that snuck up behind us. I have some spell energy left, but I don't have the reserves to conjure Bigby's Hand again. If possible, some healing would be useful; or a short pause to catch our breath, but I appreciate we shouldn't stay here on the stairs."  
dangelo
 Dust assaults your lungs. A sweet yet pungent smell of decay fills this room, in the center of which stands a long oak table. A blanket of dust covers the tabletop and its fine china and silverware. In the center of the table, a large, tiered cake leans heavily to one side. The once white frosting has turned green with age. Cobwebs hang like dusty lace down every side of the cake. A single doll figure of a well-dressed woman adorns the crest of the cake. Suspended above is a web-shrouded chandelier of forged iron. An arched window in the south wall is draped with heavy curtains. Resting in a wooden stand by the window is a dusty lute, and standing quietly in the southwest corner is a tall harp shrouded in cobwebs. 

Upon closer inspection, it is possible to find the figurine of the groom: clad in white and wearing the holy symbol of the Morninglord.

Two doors lead away from this chamber: One to the west, another to the north
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 
"He will not leave us alone for long, I think."   Herbert examines the room as they descend.   "A wedding cake?"   He examines the figures, trying to see if they resemble Count Strahd or one of his brides, or perhaps Sergei...
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "If we feel as though we have 11 minutes, I can ritual conjure a small sphere that will protect us from intrusion. This should let us rest, if we want to rest. Otherwise perhaps we should keep moving."  

Zinro rubbed his eyebrows; there would be so much cleaning to do once he inherited this castle.
TaiLiu
Yikkol agrees that this room is a good resting spot, though she herself is mostly unharmed.

"Strahd must hate this room. No servants have been inside. We're probably safe here."

As for the doors—Yikkol opens both doors and peeks through before deciding which path to choose.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "In that case I can begin the ritual whilst the rest of you investigate and scout close by. Once the shelter is up, you can pass freely outside of it; although spells will not work into and out of the dome. I will need you all to be close to me once I am about to finish the Ritual. Return to me in 10 minutes."  

Zinro began muttering and tracing Arcane symbols in the air, beginning the ritual.

 
 Spoiler 
Zinro will Ritual Cast Leomund's Tiny Hut. Takes 11 minutes. The party should be able to pass freely in and out, as long as they're inside the dome once it's cast.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha stands guard as Zinro performs the ritual,   Was that a spell Strahd was using to come in and out of the walls the way he did? That has an effect on our strategy against him.   He turns to Zinro,   Will he be able to move through this shelter you're creating?  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 Asha stands guard as Zinro performs the ritual,   Was that a spell Strahd was using to come in and out of the walls the way he did? That has an effect on our strategy against him.   He turns to Zinro,   Will he be able to move through this shelter you're creating?   
 

  "It must have been a spell. We didn't see him use it before when we fought him, even though it would have greatly aided him; so it stands to reason that he simply didn't prepare or have time to cast it before. Now that we know he can use such a spell, I can attempt to dispel the effect, if and when we next encounter him using it. He should still be barred from entering the shelter - it blocks creatures and spells."  
dangelo
To the west:
 Red satin curtains hang in archways at both ends of the south wall in this dark room. Between them, in the center of the chamber, stands a large, ornate iron tub with clawed feet. The tub is full of blood. 

To the north:
 A blazing hearth fire fills this room with rolling waves of red and amber light. The walls are lined with ancient books and tomes, their leather covers well oiled and preserved through careful use. All is in order here. The stone floor is concealed beneath a thick, luxurious rug. In the center of the room is a large, low table, waxed and polished to a mirrored finish. Even the poker in its stand next to the blazing fireplace is polished. Large, overstuffed divans and couches are arranged about the room. Two chairs of burgundy-colored wood with padded leather seats and back cushions face the hearth. A huge painting hangs over the mantelpiece in a heavy, gilded frame. The rolling firelight illuminates the carefully rendered portrait. 
 
 Spoiler 
   
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

As Asha takes in their surroundings, he realizes they may not be alone,   Hold on, there may be others here.   He glances into the room with the hearth, and seeing no one, he moves to the westward room. Spotting the tub of blood, he doesn't enter further in. He returns to the others and says,   I'm not sure these chambers are clear of enemies.  
TaiLiu
“Let’s rest up before exploring further then,” Yikkol says. She offers to keep an eye and an ear out for possible dangers while they wait for Zinro to finish the ritual.

 
 Perception if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 11 ] . 
 
EDIT: The Fates have decided that we shall be ambushed once more. 😂
dangelo
The real treasure here were Strahd's collection of books—over one thousand unique tomes in all.  It contained biographies on lost kings and queens, advanced alchemy textbooks, poetry anthologies, theological texts, epic romances... One could lose centuries browsing through each of these books.

When investigating the portrait of Tatyana Federovna - purple dress and auburn hair, just like the bride figurine on the wedding cake - the fellowship found a hidden mechanism that made the painting open up like a door. Behind it lay the only part of the castle that not even Strahd knew about  : A crude container carved into the thick walls of the Study, slightly smaller than the painting itself.

An inscription had been carved in the crude stone:

 "I am Sergei von Zarovich. My brother and I grow apart every day, and I fear for his soul. He secludes himself to his chambers and dedicates his entire life to the arcane arts - I ask him if he has tapped into Necromancy, and he lies to me. The wedding is near, and he has declined to attend. Tatyana has been desolate - they were always close trusted friends.

The Morninglord inspired me to take precautions: I have stolen my brother's spellbook and personal diary, his most valuable treasure. In it, I found the most foul of curses: the Second Return. If my brother ever loses himself, I beg you, burn this book after destroying his body. That will be the only way to prevent him from coming back over and over." 

But the Tome of Strahd wasn't there. Instead, a simple note on a piece of parchment had been placed in the secret safe:

 "Count Strahd von Zarovich, I am coming for you." 

Signed:  "Rudolph van Richten" 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Once the party were rested inside the Tiny Hut, there was no reason to keep it active and so Zinro moved outside of it and let it disappear. The time spent resting was most welcome, and Zinro felt refreshed for it.

As the party discovered the fact that Strahd's spellbook had not only been stolen, but had to be destroyed to keep him dead, Zinro cursed deeply in Drow. Strahd was clearly a mage of significant power, with powers even Zinro himself was not privy too. How he longed to study the spells and lore and knowledge contained within Strahd's personal tome. But alas, Zinro was, if nothing else, pragmatic. Strahd needed to be destroyed, even if that meant losing out on the knowledge and power contained within the book.

  "We better hope this man knows what he's doing."   He grumbled.
J-H
 Herbert 
 "Indeed."   Herbert puts a finger over his lips in a shushing motion, then points at the walls around and cups his ear, indicating that Strahd might be listening, and that they should not talk about the note they found.   "We should move on." 
TaiLiu
"Right away, your holiness!"

Then, whispering to Herbert: "Should we... take the note?"
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha reads the note,    Dammit!    Knowing that Strahd has been keeping tabs on them throughout the castle, he takes the note and slips it into his bag of holding; no need to let Strahd know what van Richten has done.

He turns to the others,   We have a couple of loose ends to follow.   He closes the portrait and gazes up at the bride,   She doesn't look like the other ones...  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 He closes the portrait and gazes up at the bride,   She doesn't look like the other ones...   
 

  "I believe the wedding cake and this portrait are dedicated to Sergei and his bride; or at least bride to be; rather than one of Strahd's brides. No doubt she was also killed when he turned into his current form."   Zinro looks over to the decaying wedding cake.   "Weddings can be such an emotional time for the brother of the groom. Maybe he was supposed to be his brother's best man? Maybe he attempted to propose to another on this joyous day and was declined?"  
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

(Yes, double post, my apologies, but need to make an IC post based on OOC discussion)

In the interest of making sure they had discovered everything of value, Zinro entered in the bathroom. He didn't approach the bathtub of blood, but instead stayed by the door and began reciting the ritual words to be able to perceive magical auras.

(Ritual Cast Detect Magic at the threshold of the bathroom; I believe the radius should cover the entire bathroom, but if not I'll tentatively move into the room to scan)
dangelo
[tw;su1c1d3]

 A blood-drenched creature explodes out of the tub and attaches to the ceiling, cackling maniacally. Blood pours off its pale flesh, bony limbs, and stringy hair as it scuttles away. After a few moments, it becomes clear the creature isn't corporeal, and neither is the blood. Both are ethereal manifestations of a spirit who couldn't let go and lingered in the Material Plane, forever in pain. 

Under the spell of revelation cast by Zinro, however, the spirit assumed a different form. The whole Bath Chamber shifted in faerie fire and a real-time illusion became a window to the past:

A girl - woman grown, but still young - burst into the bath chamber and shut the door behind her. He eyes darted across the room, panic filled her heart. Her pupils shrunk when the voice of Strahd was heard through the walls:  "Varushka, my love, your lord is hungry..."  He wandered the corridors of Castle Ravenloft looking for her.  "You have always been my favorite. And you are certainly the most delicious." 

What could have happened to the handsome Count Strahd the young maid had known? The good Strahd von Zarovich, brother of the legendary paladin Sergei, who kept the people of Barovia safe and happy. Varushka had loved him with all her heart; loved him as a ruler, loved him as father, loved him as a man; Even when he grew bitter with envy, obsessed with Tatyana, Varushka still saw good in his heart.

But now Strahd had died and returned as a vampire, a horrible creature who drank blood to survive -  her  blood, the very essence of her soul. She couldn't bare it.  "Morning forgive me, for yours is the right to give or take life."  She cried in the bathtub.

That night, Varushka ended her own life, and successfully rid her soul from the eternal torment that would be becoming his first bride: Forever hypnotized and mind-controlled, forced to worship Strahd and supply him with blood. The Mist had already severed Barovia from the rest of the world, enveloping it in its own demiplane, so Varushka's soul was forever trapped in the castle. Only the destruction of Strahd would truly free her spirit.

The vision faded, and the bath chamber returned to normal, except there was no more blood anywhere.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro didn't say anything, but his face betrayed a deep inner pain. He was no stranger to family politics, and had suffered at the hands of a sibling. On more than one occasion, especially after the tragic death of his friend, Zinro's mental health had been surely pressed. Perhaps his situation was not as bad as Varushka's, but, on some level, he understood her pain and her desire for control of her own destiny; final as it was. Zinro himself had left the Underdark in search of control of his own life. He was privileged enough that he had some measure of power to affect his destiny. He felt pity for poor Varushka, perhaps one of the few people Zinro would ever pity.

  "I believe we have seen all there is to see here. We should continue downwards to move towards the access stairway for the uppermost tower."  
dangelo
Investigating the Study:

The corridor to the north leads to two places:  A.  Hall of Heroes and  B.  Heart of the Castle.

Hall of Heroes:
 Dark alcoves line the walls of this long hall. The ceiling has fallen here, leaving rubble strewn across the floor. Overhead, the beams of Ravenloft's roof are exposed. Lightning from the dark clouds above sporadically illuminates the hall, lighting the faces of life-sized human statues in the alcoves. Each visage is frozen in terror. 
The Hall of Heroes ends in a staircase that descents into the lower levels of the castle.

 
 Spoiler: Investigation/Arcana 
There are actual souls of heroes trapped in these statues, adventurers who assaulted Castle Ravenloft and perished in their crusade.
 


Behind the double doors on the western wall of the Study is  3.  King's Bedchamber:
 Sweet smells waft from this delicately lit room. A great arched window along the west wall is covered by heavy red draperies, their golden tassels glinting in the light of three candelabras sitting atop small tables about the room. Tall white candles burn with bright, steady light. A large bed, canopied by silk curtains, sits with its headboard against the north wall. 

The Bed Chamber is connected to the Bath Chamber through similar double doors.

A  4.  nondescript staircase leads out of the Study. It's narrow, silent, and a quick scout ahead reveals it plunges deep into the castle.

 5.  There's a secret passage behind the fireplace. If the fire is extinguished, a medium creature can crawl through it.

It will make more sense when you visualize:   Owlbear battlemap  
J-H
  Herbert 

Herbert lingers in the Hall of Heroes, praying to Pelor.  How might these be freed?
 
 Spoiler 

Religion  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 
 
Deleted due to area description being corrected
TaiLiu
"A secret entrance! Perhaps additional treasures lie ahead."

Yikkol finds some materials to put out the fire. When it's cool enough, she heads in first through the fireplace entrance.
dangelo
 Resting on the floor of this smoke-filled room is a closed chest surrounded by piles of gold, silver, and copper coins. The fittings and clawed feet on the chest are evidence of great workmanship.

Attached to the east wall are two torch sconces. The southernmost one holds a torch with an intricate metal base. The other is empty. A skeleton in broken plate armor lies against the wall. The skeleton's right hand is on its throat, and its left hand holds the matching torch from the empty sconce. 

The coins scattered around the chest total 50 gp, 100 sp, and 2,000 cp. The chest weighs 40 pounds and is unlocked.

After further investigation:

Yikkol finds a another secret passage on the opposite side of this secret passage. But there's no clear switch, no mechanism to moved, nothing but a slightly uneven tiled floor.
J-H
Herbert finds this suspicious, especially a skeleton that appears to have strangled itself...or been clutching at its throat, unable to breathe.  He looks over the room carefully.

 Perception at +8, investigation at +0 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha investigates the room for signs of how to open the other secret entrance, and for any traps that might explain how the corpse died.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Looks like Herbert has Perception covered so Asha will use Investigation. He also has proficiency in Thieves' Tools if applicable.

  Investigation  - (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  +   Guidance  - (1d4)[ 3 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro didn't enter the crawlspace to get inside the secret room just yet. Instead he merely said:   "If you need me to manipulate something from afar, I can use Mage Hand to do so."  
dangelo
By shaking the chest lightly, one could hear the faint chuckle of delicate metal parts, indicating there was possibly a hidden mechanism inside it. There's no way to disarm it from the outside.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  4/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha kneels down,   There's some sort of mechanism inside, but I'll have to open it to disarm it. Let's see what it is.   Asha opens the chest.
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  Resting on the floor of this smoke-filled room is a closed chest surrounded by piles of gold, silver, and copper coins. The fittings and clawed feet on the chest are evidence of great workmanship.

Attached to the east wall are two torch sconces. The southernmost one holds a torch with an intricate metal base. The other is empty. A skeleton in broken plate armor lies against the wall. The skeleton's right hand is on its throat, and its left hand holds the matching torch from the empty sconce. 

The coins scattered around the chest total 50 gp, 100 sp, and 2,000 cp. The chest weighs 40 pounds and is unlocked.

After further investigation:

Yikkol finds a another secret passage on the opposite side of this secret passage. But there's no clear switch, no mechanism to moved, nothing but a slightly uneven tiled floor. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
 Herbert finds this suspicious, especially a skeleton that appears to have strangled itself...or been clutching at its throat, unable to breathe.  He looks over the room carefully. 
 

Yikkol nods knowingly as Herbert looked around the room. This room was awful strange. Where's the smoke coming from? How are these torches lit? Why is a skeleton struggling to breath?

Just in case, she soaks a rag and ties it around her mouth. No reason to risk smoke inhalation.

"Your holiness?" She sounds muffled. "The skeleton must be an undead servant of Strahd. There's no way those torches would have stayed lit during the time it takes a body to decompose."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 "Your holiness?" She sounds muffled. "The skeleton must be an undead servant of Strahd. There's no way those torches would have stayed lit during the time it takes a body to decompose." 
 

  "They might be torches with a continual flame enchantment placed upon them. They produce light permanently, but they also produce no heat. See if the torches feel warm as you place your hand near them. If not, I daresay the torches are magical."  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "They might be torches with a continual flame enchantment placed upon them. They produce light permanently, but they also produce no heat. See if the torches feel warm as you place your hand near them. If not, I daresay the torches are magical."   
 

Yikkol reaches for the torch still attached to the sconce. She pulls it out and feels it for heat.
TaiLiu
It feels cool to the touch—but then she realizes that the torches are unlit. She pulls other torch from the skeleton and tries a number of activities with the torches to see if it’ll unlock the secret door: both in, both out, only one on the right.

If nothing happens there, she’ll light them and put them out, trying to exhaust the possible sequences of lit and unlit.
dangelo
Multiple things happen almost at the same time:

When Yikkol places both torches on their rightful places, a secret door opens up between the sconces. The stone wall is actually divided in two pieces that fold open like double doors, revealing a dark corridor overtaken by spider webs.

When Asha opens the unlocked chest, the hidden mechanism inside releases a cloud of purple smoke that rapidly fills the room. The smell is sweet and quite strong, sharp and pungent like ether. Those who fail a Constitution save DC 18 will become paralyzed for 4 hours. The smoke becomes harmless as it spreads through both secret passages.

The laugh of the seven barovian witches can be heard as their trap is set off.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Since Waistcoatwill is busy atm, I'll be nice and assume Bori was positioned just outside the fireplace, so his Aura still reaches some of you. I won't place him -inside- the room tho, cause it would be unfair if he failed the save without ever moving his own character into the room himself.
 

Herbert  (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
Asha  (1d20+11)[ 21 ] 
Yikkol  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
dangelo
Follow-up:

Another spell was triggered by the trap: As Zinro could notice, from a vantage point and being well versed in the arcane, a simple alarm spell had went off and warned someone, somewhere, of what just happened.

Almost immediately, a magic portal appeared out of thin air, right in the middle of the study, and from it emerged a human figure. He was old, certainly over 60, but seemed sturdy and somewhat physically capable, although he limped heavily on a metal cane. Flasks of holy water hung from his belt, ready to be tossed, and the flasks were exactly the same as the ones Ezmerelda had given the fellowship.

 
 Spoiler 
 
 

The old man raised his free hand, making an arcane sigil with his fingers, and a powerful lightning bolt threatened to materialize in his palm. "Give up now, o, creatures of the night! You surely didn't expect your trap would be turned against you!" A cocky smile crossed his old face, but then he noticed the fellowship didn't  look  like creatures of the night, and the smile was replaced by suspicion. "Who... What  are  you? Doppelgangers? Ghosts possessing bodies? Witches in disguise? Answer me, now!" The lightning sparks in his hand intensified as he raised his voice.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro had been about to rush to his companion's aid, when the magical portal had opened and a man had stepped out. Zinro momentarily prepared for conflict, but then saw the disposition and appearance of the man, as well as his equipment. He remembered the phrase Ezmerelda had taught them, and spoke the challenge to the newcomer:

  "In the shadows, where moonlight fears to tread..."  
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

As the gas emerges from the chest, Asha springs forward and cups his hand over Yikkol's nose and mouth,   Don't breathe!   His armor filters out the worst of the magic and he is able to resist the insidious gas. Herbert is not so fortunate, and Asha watches in horror as the cleric stiffens and becomes paralyzed. As the gas dissipates, he lets lets go of Yikkol to attend to Herbert, but suddenly a portal opens and an old man steps forth ready to battle. The man raises his hand, lightning sparking at his finger tips. Asha does the same, hands raised and the sonic disruptors in his palm thrumming with power.   We're no creatures of the night, and we are enemies of Strahd. Much like you, Rudolph Van Richten.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Reaction   - Flash of Genius on Yikkol to pump her saving throw over the DC 18. Down to 3/5 uses.
 
dangelo
Hearing the password, the old man lowered his hand and looked Zinro deep in the eyes. The lighting bolt disappeared, and he scanned Bori and the secret passage through the fireplace. Only after a long moment of silence did he reply the counter-password, in a very serious voice:  "Whispers dance with the forgotten, echoing in the cryptic silence." 

"This password... You met my protegé." He scratched his chin. "She cannot disclose that through torture or mind reading, not even if she wants to. So I must believe you earned her trust."

"I am Rudolph von Richten, as you might know already." He bowed politely. "Who are you and your associates? What are you doing in the lair of the Devil?"
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  
  Same as you, I imagine,   Asha says, stepping past the man to attend to Herbert.   Pretty clever, whatever you did with that trap, I did a thorough scan and didn't pick up the danger. Whatever it was, it took down our friend. Can you help him?  

Asha kneels down beside the cleric and tries to diagnose what is afflicting Herbert.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Medicine  - (1d20+2)[ 19 ]  +   Guidance  - (1d4)[ 2 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Yes, we met her."   Zinro replied.   "We can share the details of our names and our quest as soon as we get our companion to safety."  
  "Yikkol, Asha, get the secret passage closed and get Herbert out here! Is he alive?"   There was a slight trace of concern in Zinro's voice. Was it worry over Herbert's fate or was it the loss of a potent weapon against Strahd that Zinro feared?
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

The tension of the last few moments begins to peak,   I'm not moving him until I know what's wrong with him,   Asha barks back,   And last I checked, Lord Zinro, you don't need anyone's permission to open and close doors around here. Feel free to come in and lend a hand.   The soldier looks back at Van Richten,   Doc! What'd you do to him?  
dangelo
"I did not prepare this trap. But I know it is Necromancy of the worst kind, and was brewed as a poison to paralyze the body." He approached the paralyzed members of the fellowship and inspected them. "I have reason to believe there is a covenant of witches living in this castle, and this trap is one of the ways they get fresh ingredients. I  hoped  I would catch them when  they  caught someone..."

From his numerous pockets, Van Richten produced a potion flask. "Help them drink this. Sit them up straight so they won't choke on the liquid."

[The potion has the effect of the spell "Protection from Poison"]

The legendary vampire hunter looked around, interested and puzzled. "I don't understand why the witches didn't come to take you, however. Perhaps they would only come if all targets were paralyzed. Hmm, I might have underestimated their mental faculties."
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Seeing that Van Richten had come prepared to help them, Zinro relaxed a little from Asha's outburst. He entered into the passageway, and took a look down the new secret passage with his superior vision.

  "The Witches are all dead. We killed them. We have also disposed of 3 of Strahd's brides; and defeated him ourselves once. Although a true defeat is something we cannot accomplish without your help, as I'm sure you know."  
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha takes the flask and does his best to sit Herbert up. He carefully pours the contents into Herbert's mouth, going slowly to make sure the cleric is ingesting the potion.

The legendary vampire hunter looks around, interested and puzzled. "I don't understand why the witches didn't come to take you, however. Perhaps they would only come if all targets were paralyzed. Hmm, I might have underestimated their mental faculties."

  They're dead,   Asha says, matter of factly.
dangelo
Van Richten was visibly pleased at the news, but was too polite for exaggerated reactions. He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose, thoughtful. "That is good to hear. I must admit, I wonder how you managed to keep him around long enough to defeat him. Vampires are shapeshifters by nature, and only sunlight will keep them from transforming. I hope this doesn't come off as an insult, but you don't seem powerful enough to evoke true sunlight in such a godforsaken land."
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha breathes a sigh of relief as he sees Herbert stir after receiving the potion. However, Van Richten is proving to irritate the soldier.

He stands and faces Rudolph,   I don't have the patience to sate your curiosity Van Richten.   He gestures vaguely to the room around them,   This little trap you set is cute, and I'm sure if we hadn't killed all the witches in a straight up fight, you might have hurt a few of them. But I have a few questions of my own. For starters, where did you come from? The walls have eyes and ears here, and we need to talk about some things. It's best if we use that portal of yours and go somewhere the Count can't listen in. You'll just have to take our word that we don't have to resort to... booby traps to wipe out Strahd's forces.  
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by Dr.Samurai 
 As the gas emerges from the chest, Asha springs forward and cups his hand over Yikkol's nose and mouth,   Don't breathe!   His armor filters out the worst of the magic and he is able to resist the insidious gas. 
 

The wet rag is not enough, but Asha presses it closer to Yikkol's face, and that stops it from getting too far into her throat.


 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 Van Richten was visibly pleased at the news, but was too polite for exaggerated reactions. He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose, thoughtful. "That is good to hear. I must admit, I wonder how you managed to keep him around long enough to defeat him. Vampires are shapeshifters by nature, and only sunlight will keep them from transforming. I hope this doesn't come off as an insult, but you don't seem powerful enough to evoke true sunlight in such a godforsaken land." 
 

Yikkol clarifies what the drow wizard meant.

"He shapeshifted, but Zinro held him fast with a spell and we struck him till he fled.

"As for the sunlight—did you know we have a saint in our midst? Bori has a sword that emits light."
J-H
Herbert sputters a bit as the potion goes down, but is quite happy to have it.   "Thank you."   After he stands up and clears his throat, he address Van Richten.

 "You may be surprised at what Pelor can do.  Also, the Count, although certainly evil, appears to fail at just about everything he has done, albeit in a way that harms others.  The greatest challenge is indeed pinning him down." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Indeed, if you have somewhere safe for us to discuss our situation, it would be best for us to use it."  

He looked at the party's priest.   "I'm glad to see you're alright, Herbert."   He said, in a rare display of camaraderie.

  "Was there anything of value in the chest? Or just the trap?"  
dangelo
[The trapped chest is empty]

"A sword... that emits sunlight?" Van Richten tasted the words. A frown crossed his forehead, the last restraint of caution that kept his fascination from spilling over his face. "Such power is rare, to say the least. Some talented priests can evoke temporary sunlight through spells and miracles, but a  sword?  That emits  sunlight?  How did you even come across such treasure? Have you any idea of who forged it? Is it consecrated to any specific deity?"

He placed a hand on his own chest. "Apologies, I lose track of myself. Let me answer your questions first, then I'll ask my own; Lord Zinro, is that that correct? Forgive my pronunciation, I have never spent too much time in the halls of Mezoberranzan. To answer your question: No, I mustn't take you to my safe refuge. Its location is a secret even to my pupil, and you and I are no more than circumstantial allies. Let us talk, share and rest together, but afterwards we must part ways. It wouldn't be wise to take you with me when navigating the castle, nor am I interested in your own plans to find and kill Strahd. Our paths intertwine, but are distinct by excellence."

Van Richten held his bony chin as he analyzed the fellowship. "I haven't made up my mind about you lot just yet." He confessed. "Owning such a powerful weapon could have been merely the product of luck, and yet the Devil could simply take it away from your hands with his hypnotizing gaze."

"And you say you defeated him once, but he escaped, so you never truly defeated him. Strahd is proud and constantly underestimate his foes, and in this case it seems like he underestimated your arcane powers, since you say it was Lord Zinro's spell who pinned him in place. Perhaps he won't be as reckless in your next encounter. Have you thought about that?"

To Herbert, he added: "I do know the name of Pelor. He is respected and feared in many of the worlds I have visited. But while Pelor is indeed a god of light, you are simply a man of faith, separated from your patron by the Mists of Ravenloft. I cannot trust you like I would normally trust a true follower of Pelor. His power is weak in this world, and that is simply a sad truth."

To Asha, he replied: "To answer your question, I have been hunting Strahd von Zarovich for a long time at this point. Took me long years just to find a way into the Valley without being summoned here by himself; Once my protegé and I arrived in the Valley, I settled down in the town of Vallaki under the disguise of Rictavio, a humble bard of mixed blood, and Ezmerelda scouted the countryside for information. But all that is gone now. There was an insurgence in Vallaki, and as punishment, Strahd drowned the entire city in the Mists, significantly reducing the size of his domain. Now, only his castle and the village of Barovia exist in this Domain of Dread. This was good for him because Vallaki could have turned against him, but it is bad for him because the people of Barovia is broken, and Strahd prefers to drink from the hopeful, the delusional, those he tricked and manipulated. Now, he only feeds from his own servants and the Heart of Sorrow, a magic reserve of blood he keeps in this castle."

"I have hunted creatures of the night my entire life, but I am no elf or dwarf. Men are short-lived creatures, and I finally grow old. My bones hurt, my eyesight isn't the same... Hunting Strahd von Zarovich will be the last deed of my career, after which I will depart to my own demiplane and there live the rest of my days in peace. This is the hunt of my life, and I hope you understand I am not willing to risk it all in the hands of five strangers, who, to be perfectly candid, seem to think too much about themselves, and are likely to be killed by Strahd like the hundreds and hundreds of adventurers who came before them."

"That said... Yes, I possess the Tome of Strahd, and I am willing to give you a chance to earn my trust. Hear my proposition:"

"I leave the Tome in your hands. Once I kill Strahd, I find you and we burn the Tome together. Should you somehow kill him before I do, I will admit I was wrong about your potential, and will do everything in my power to repay the favor before my retirement. Whatever your personal goals are, I am sure you can use my help."

"My condition, however, is one: You lend me the sunlight sword, and I give my word I will give it back once Strahd is destroyed."
TaiLiu
Yikkol growls. She didn't like this man at all. Especially not when he just insulted Herbert. Through strained teeth:

"Thank you for healing his holiness. If you're so sure of yourself, then you hardly need our sword. Keep your Tome. Go and kill him."
J-H
 Herbert 
 "What makes you confident that you alone can destroy the Count, who may be listening to this very conversation, alone?  Do you have some secret method of fighting that requires you have no one around you to heal you, to guard your back, or to aid you?"

We did encounter the Heart you speak of.  Lord Zinro destroyed it, mostly by himself." 
Herbert thinks to himself.   He speaks contemptuously of Count Strahd's pride in underestimating his opponent, yet also overstates his own prowess similarly.  I'm unsure we can trust him... 
dangelo
"You did  what? " Van Richten rubbed his palm against his face. " Why?  Didn't you realize that, if Strahd feeds from the heart, you could use it ambush him when he was vulnerable?"

The vampire hunter sighed deeply. "It seems like my first impression about you was right. If what you say is true and you have killed his brides, then it is only a matter of time until Strahd grows hungry. That makes him unpredictable. It was  not  my desired course of action." The frustration was clear in his voice. "So be it. There's no changing the past."
TaiLiu
What was wrong with this man? How could he question the wisdom of Herbert like this?

"Thanks again for helping his holiness," she says to the hunter. "We must go now. Your holiness? Shall we explore the room beyond?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro couldn't help but smile at the exchange. It felt like he was back in the halls of Menzoberranzan, with the constant bickering and one-upmanship often displayed therein.

  "To formally introduce myself, since it appears we are going nowhere, I am Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan."   Yet again with that tired recitation of his noble lineage.   "Our apologies if our activities seem to be interrupting your carefully laid plans; but frankly, I have yet to see you accomplish anything of value besides stealing Strahd's tome. Even your ambush laid for the Witches ended in failure. We are dismantling Strahd's defences and his forces piece by piece, at no cost to ourselves...."   There was a slight pause in this statement as Zinro considered Rue, but he pressed on regardless.   "He is weaker now than he was before, and will only continue to grow weaker if he cannot feed and become unpredictable. I am sure our final confrontation with Strahd will draw your attention, at which point you can destroy the tome after we are victorious, and we will have accomplished what you set out to do for many years in only a handful of days."  
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Whatever tension existed between Zinro and Asha earlier evaporates as the dark elf rebukes Van Richten. Asha though is unsettled and steps closer to the vampire hunter,   It's always the same with you learned types. Looking down from above, or lurking from the shadows. Never doing, only thinking and talking. You accuse us of arrogance. You don't trust your own apprentice to share your hideout, nor her judgement of character, and she learned from YOU! You think you are the only one that can succeed where so many others have failed, and you've never even faced him! Only in your books and your planning. And now you think if you have a sword you didn't even know existed, it's a sure thing. You're right Van Richten, there is plenty of arrogance in this chamber.

If by some happy accident you happen to destroy Strahd, it will be by climbing the bones of all the soldiers and warriors that had the guts to face the monster and take action. The ones that gave their lives while you schemed and plotted in Vallaki,telling yourself that you're not a coward, that you're actually doing something.  

A moment of silence passes, and then abruptly Asha says,   We should keep moving.   He steps back through the fireplace into the greater chamber. It is clear that something about Van Richten bothers the warrior in a way that the horrors of war, or of battle with Strahd do not.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori squeezes the unlit hilt in his hands.

 Sergei's soul, or some fragment of it, resides in the sword. I have felt it, we have made a connection and I feel that we share common purpose. I cannot abandon it to someone I do not know. As Asha sayss, your inability to trust your own protégé os worrying... We will have to contact you when we defeat Strahd. Do you have a method we can use?

We also need to reach the top of this tower. Do you know the path we need to follow? 
dangelo
"The high tower is directly connected to the catacombs. Make your way to the chapel, and once then, take the stairs up instead of down." Van Richten thought for a moment, holding his bony chin between his finger and his thumb. "Or you can use the Chamberlain's teleportation device. This door will take you there." He indicated the nondescript staircase that seemed to plunge deep into the castle. "I advise against using the Brazier. I'm still not sure if Strahd is monitoring its activity or not, but one can never be too safe in this castle. Of course, your companions might feel confident enough to take the shortcut. They boast about having defeated the Devil already."

"Believe me: If either of us manage to kill Strahd, the entire castle will be warned."

At the mention of Sergei's soul, Van Richten softened up just a little. "A fragment of his soul, you say? Well, you refuse to leave it in my hands, and I respect that; But would you allow me to inspect it? Take a closer look on it?" Without any hopes of getting through to the others, he directed his question at Bori.
TaiLiu
Yikkol frowns but stays silent, letting Bori decide whether to lend his sword or not.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori stares long and hard at the Van Richten, trying to gain some measure of his intent.

 
 Spoiler: Insight 
Insight  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
 
dangelo
Van Richten doesn't seem interested in stealing - as a wizard and a scholar, he is driven by knowledge and has never seen such a rare treasure. He believes you will fail, and he won't have another chance to inspect the blade.
dangelo
The vampire hunter cast a similar spell do Zinro's  Detect Magic  and analyzed the blade from every angle. He never actually touched it besides once, with just the tip of his finger, to observe the texture and the quality of the steel. With an inquisitive glance to Bori, as if doubting the standards of the blade when it came to who wielded it, Van Richten turned away and thanked the paladin with a polite nod. Not a single word about the properties of the item came out of his mouth.

"So, I believe this is goodbye. I wish you long days and pleasant nights in the years to come."
TaiLiu
“Goodbye,” Yikkol says. Under her breath: “What a fool. To insult a priest…”

She turns back to the party and gestures at the secret tunnel.

“Shall we?”
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Just don't forget your part to play when we defeat Strahd again. Best of luck to you."   Zinro replied to Van Richten.

  "We should check where this particular secret passage heads first, I think."   He said, agreeing with Yikkol.   "We can divide up the coins in this room later."  

(I assume someone picks up all the coins here)
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha chimes in,   We know how to get to the top of the tower now. With Strahd hunting us down, I think we should get to the chapel and climb the stairs to get the final treasure.  
dangelo
Hall of Webs:
 This ancient hall is choked with spider webs broken by a single clear path down its center. At the end of the corridor are a pair of arched bronze doors of ornate design. 

Right at the beginning of the corridor, turning right, Yikkol finds a secret passage that leads into a tight passage:
 This ten-foot-square room overlooks a vertical shaft that plunges into darkness and continues upward. 

Inspecting the shaft up close:
 Cold air fills this rectangular shaft, the walls of which are coated with mildew and worn smooth. Taut iron chains extend up and down the shaft. The links of the chains are thick and covered with grease. 

Returning to the Hall of Webs and pulling open the double doors, the fellowship finds the Belfry:
 You can hear the rain and thunder outside, and the air here is cold and damp. Veils and curtains of webbing fill the room, making it hard to gauge its width and depth. A single, narrow path leads to the dark center of the room, where a rope dangles from high above. 

Finally, on the left wall of the belfry, Asha notices yet another secret passage: By far the most elaborate of all secret doors you have seen around the castle. The contraption splits the stone wall in two perfect halves and reveals the way to a high ceiling room, well-lit by cozy, orange  Continual Flames  placed inside oil lamps:
 This octagonal vault is free of dust and cobwebs. The domed ceiling forty feet above is painted black and sparkles with a display of stars in unfamiliar constellations. Barely contained within this vault is a square tower, twenty feet on a side and thirty feet high, with arrow slits on all sides and a battlemented roof. 

There are only two ways into the miniature fortress: A sealed adamantine door set into the base of the tower, and an adamantine trapdoor on the roof. The arrow slits of the tower are 4 inches wide and 2 feet tall, and the walls of the fortress are 3 inches thick. Only Tiny creatures can squeeze through.

The floor around the tower is flooded with gold and silver coins, thousands of times the amount you just found behind the fireplace. Mixed in the ancient Barovian coins (which display the visage of Strahd) there are coins from all around the world, and from several different worlds too.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
TaiLiu
What a strange sight! A tiny castle in a hidden room pass a hidden opening that can only be accessed through a hidden doorway by the fireplace. Compared to the rooms around it, this one was oddly clean.

And the doors! Even across dimensions Yikkol recognizes the slick black stone as that of adamantine. To protect this castle, no expense was spared.

Whatever’s locked inside must be important to Strahd. Therefore, Yikkol wanted it.

“There must be another treasure locked within,” Yikkol says to her companions. “The stone used to forge the doors are worth far more than their weight in gold.”

She tests both doors to see if they’re unlocked. If not, she’ll  look for a possible locking mechanism and disarm it.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro regarded the mini fortress with some amazement. He was also surprised the floor of this room hadn't caved in at the weight of such a structure. He tried to think if he recognised such a fortress.

  "I could use a spell of short teleportation - one that you've seen me use before to cross short distances - to make it inside the structure via the arrow slits. Hopefully there is a way to open this fortress easily from inside; otherwise I could use the same spell to exfiltrate myself after investigating."   Zinro suggested.

 
 Spoiler 
Has Zinro seem something like this before? Arcana/History/Investigation are all +8, so whichever one is appropriate here:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] .
 
J-H
 Herbert 
Herbert looks at the castle.  It sounds vaguely like a magical fortress he heard some dungeon-delvers bragging about a few years ago, but... no, probably not.   "Strahd's people starve, yet he hoards coin to no purpose like a dragon." 
dangelo
 
 Originally Posted by TaiLiu 
 What a strange sight! A tiny castle in a hidden room pass a hidden opening that can only be accessed through a hidden doorway by the fireplace. Compared to the rooms around it, this one was oddly clean.

And the doors! Even across dimensions Yikkol recognizes the slick black stone as that of adamantine. To protect this castle, no expense was spared.

Whatever’s locked inside must be important to Strahd. Therefore, Yikkol wanted it.

“There must be another treasure locked within,” Yikkol says to her companions. “The stone used to forge the doors are worth far more than their weight in gold.”

She tests both doors to see if they’re unlocked. If not, she’ll  look for a possible locking mechanism and disarm it. 
 

Both the door and the trapdoor are clean smooth, lacking handlers or locks to operate them. Only the right magic words will crack them open.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  1/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha peers through the arrow slits to see how the tower is constructed inside,   If there is space, I can teleport in with you Zinro. Maybe there is a way to open it from the inside.   Asha has a thought and measures the arrow slits. He turns and gauges Bori's size.   My armor is able to enlarge or reduce creatures and objects. It is useful for infiltration missions, or if an enemy target has a challenging size advantage. In this case, I think if I shrink Bori down, he may be able to get in through these slits. Otherwise,   he looks at the tower and the room,   I am not sure if I can grow the tower to allow us entry.  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori breathes a sigh of relief when the Von Richten leaves them alone. A thought strikes him as he follows the others out of the room.  Several folk here have called me a "paladin", that's so funny, I'm not a holy warrior like the follows of the Silver Flame. I'm literally a glorified guard if I'm anything. Between my mark and my mask weaver training I know how to look after people. 

He is lost in thought again until they find the tiny castle.  That's amazing! Why do you think all of this treasure here, will it take all of our gold somehow or is the castle just another piece of treasure? I'm more than happy to sneak in an arrow slit if Asha shrinks me down. I'm no good at picking locks but you'd think finding a way out wouldn't be too hard .

The second thing since the sword that has filled him with wonder rather than dread and despair...his spirits begin to lift slightly.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha pauses and then says,   Actually Bori, I may be able to shrink the door off its hinges, allowing us all access to the tower. That way if anything is waiting for us, it won't only be you in there.   Asha moves up to the door and places both hands on it, emitting a magical energy that attempts to shrink the door down.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Asha casts Enlarge/Reduce to Reduce the door down in size.
 
dangelo
While any normal door (and even some magic doors) would have immediately shrunk to half its size, this adamantine door was protected by powerful, ancient magic. Asha cast the spell, but it was unaffected by it.
TaiLiu
Yikkol cusses. She half-heartedly tries some passcodes:

 
 Knock once. 
 "Strahd von Zarovich." 
 Knock twice. 
 "Sergei von Zarovich." 
 Knock thrice. 
 "Tatyana Federovna." 
 Knock four times. 
 "Varushka, my love." 
 Knock five times. 
 "In the shadows, where moonlight fears to tread... Whispers dance with the forgotten, echoing in the cryptic silence." 
 Punch the door in anger. 
 "Open up in the name of his holiness!" 
 Cuss again, but louder this time. 
 
When that inevitably fails to work, she pulls out a crowbar and begins to wear away at the stonework.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro grimaced as Yikkol started to smash at the stonework of the structure.   "Please, please, I'll just teleport inside."   He pleaded.

He moved up to one of the arrow slits and peered through the gap, then muttered the usual arcane words to transport him across short distances.

(Cast Misty Step, 2nd Level, to teleport inside the structure)
dangelo
Nothing keeps Zinro from Misty Stepping in or out. Inside, he finds out the miniature tower has its own stone floor, so it isn't just a vault inside a vault. In a way, it reminds him of his own  Tiny Hut .

In the first floor, laying on a pile of gold and platinum coins, there is a beautiful steel shield emblazoned with the figure of a Silver Dragon. The figure is decorated with actual silver and the dragon's eyes are real diamonds.

On the second floor, Zinro finds accommodations and rations for a handful of soldiers that could last for a lifetime. In a special cabinet he finds a nondescript ceramic jug, a dazzling steel helmet decorated with several precious gems, a magical rod of some kind, and an unlocked wooden coffer with four compartments, each one containing a potion of greater healing.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
All these items have magical auras and can have their properties identified through the spell Identify. A general understanding of the item's powers can be observer through an Arcana check. (one for each item, you may only try once, but everyone who's proficient with Arcana can try, since I assume Zinro would allow them to inspect it too)
 

* * *

Night turned into day as a fire spread over the Svalich Woods; The tall pine trees had been lit ablaze by the Order of the Silver Dragon before they launched another assault at Castle Ravenloft. The clanking of wood, the stretching of rope and the tinkling of chains filled the battlefield as several 80-foot trebuchets launched rocks at those impenetrable walls of grey stone, smashing dozens of undead archers on the parapets. Leading the assault was none less than an adult Silver Dragon, who inspired his troops with his booming voice and cast powerful spells at Strahd. For the vampire lord didn't shy away from battle this time, but flew above the siege weapons, dodging boulders and spears and arrows and magic missiles, and sustained a magical shield around his castle with the proficiency of a master wizard. Thousands of knights in steel and blue marched into the courtyard in two columns, keeping perfect formation as they sliced and pierced through a hoard of zombies. Above them, Strahd's magical barrier was broken by the Silver Dragon's breath of cold: It froze and shattered one of the three high towers of Castle Ravenloft, leaving only two of them intact. Huge pieces of debris fell onto the battlefield below, but the Silver Dragon protected her troops with her own body. She was face to face with Strahd, now.

The vampire lord unleashed his combat form, that huge bat-like humanoid monster that the fellowship had faced in his throne room, and dove into the battlefield in a bloody frenzy. The Silver Dragon could have destroyed his entire castle, but Strahd knew the ancient creature was good in nature, and would never use her knights as bait. And so they fought and they died, one by one, as Strahd came in aid of Rahadin, who had just unleashed a hoard of zombies as fodder while his household guard retreated to the Main Hall. The hall and the courtyard were painted red with the blood of the Knights of the Order of the Silver Dragon, and the whole Valley of Barovia heard her cry of pain when she realized the battle could be won, but not without an ultimate price. Strahd killed her spirit, and then it was easy to kill her body.

The vision fades. It seems like the magic in the shield is so powerful that, when Zinro touched it, he tapped into the memories of its previous owner and his fellowship caught a glimpse of its origins. Everyone had the same vision, though the rest of the party waiting outside was probably left a little bit confused for a moment. Unlike the sword of Sergei von Zarovich, whoever wielded this shield one day is now long gone and cannot communicate - but Castle Ravenloft seems to see them as a fellowship, and thus all were granted the same vision.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
   "Fascinating...."    Zinro said to himself. Before touching anything more, he attempted to open either the front door or the trap door to the structure for the others to enter (if there's no visible means of doing so from this side either, he'll abandon doing that).

He scooped the riches into his Bag of Holding and then began to pass the clearly magical items to his companions (if anything is too big to fit through the gap, he'll just show them to the party by holding them up to the gap).   "Who wants these potions?"   Zinro pockets one regardless, offering the remaining three out to the party to take.   "I take it you saw the vision of the battle with the Silver Dragon?"  
TaiLiu
Yikkol declines the potion—she has enough.

She confirms the shared vision: “What carnage! In my world the dragons have died out, and all that’s left are their bones. I wonder how her spirit entered the shield. Regardless, I think a holy artifact like this should go to his holiness.”
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha shakes his head after the vision clears,   That was out of nowhere. What triggered that vision?   he asks Zinro.

  Let's see if there is anything here that can help us fight Strahd.  
 
 Spoiler: Arcana Check 

Asha will attempt to divine the abilities of a magic item that Zinro hands to him.
  Arcana  - (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  +   Guidance  - (1d4)[ 2 ] 
 
dangelo
The shield is not only enchanted, but it seems to improve one's awareness in battle. Requires attunement.

The magical rod is made to improve the casting of certain spells. Unlike traditional wizards like Zinro, Strahd and Rahadin, there are magicians who draw their power from specific patrons, or even magical creatures they have captured and enslaved. This rod is designed for them.

The bottom of the jug has traces of vinegar, alcohol,  musk, and other substances that can be used to make perfumes. Or potions.

The helmet is enchanted with holy magic specifically to destroy undead. It makes ita wearer resistant to fire, and has powers that can be awakened to summon sacred flames that will harm creatures of the night.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro put everything in his Bag of Holding and took a last quick look around the structure before using the same spell to egress from the structure.

Once safely outside, he retrieved the magic items and potions of greater healing from his Bag and once again offered them out for the party to claim, investigate, and take.

(Misty Step back outside the structure)
dangelo
The way to the chapel was awfully quiet. The fellowship expected to run into more servants of Strahd, but nothing attacked them as they backtracked their way to the first floor. The staircase that lead from the bridge that connected the two towers, through the witches' hideout, the guest chambers, and finally the king's bedchambers, brought the adventures straight to the Main Hall. They emerged from the doorway in front of the Music Room, which they had left unexplored.

Not a single Child of Strahd patrolled that area. Only the occasional thunder and the constant rain outside broke the silence. The body of the cleric who once tried to grab the Icon of Ravenloft lay where it had been, next to the ashes of Sir Theodore and one of his comrades. The two corpses sitting on the chairs on the balcony, however, had disappeared.

Instead of heading down to the catacombs, the fellowship climbed the steps up. Unlike the North Tower, this one had enclosed walls on both sides of the staircase, making the climb safer for everyone. They climbed and climbed for long minutes, often stopping to listen for chirping or squeaking from the Children of Strahd, but still the castle was drown in solitude.

 The spiral staircase finally ends at a five-foot-wide stone walkway that circles the shaft. In the center of the tower's highest floor, a fifteen-foot-diameter hole drops into the cold heart of Ravenloft itself. Cold air rushes up out of the shaft, sending a chill through you. Arrow slits line the walls, and aging beams support a steep, cone-shaped roof. One beam and part of the roof have fallen away, leaving a gaping hole open to the stormy sky.

Something lurks among the rafters—a small, spindly man not much larger than a child. A flash of lightning illuminates his face, which is painted like a grinning jack-o'-lantern. 

Upon closer inspection, it is possible to see the symbol of Yikkol's mother's guild printed on the little man's back. When he moves, there is the slight noise of clockwork turning.
TaiLiu
Yikkol frowns. The treasure should be here, but the walls and walkway were bare. Down into the shaft? But wouldn’t that just lead to the tombs?

And then she hears the whirring of gears. She looks up and holds her crossbow in a ready position. Then she gasps and drops it. In the architect’s guild were the finest architects in her country, but only one person in it had the maker’s gift—her mom.

To her companions, she shouts: “Don’t shoot!”

She had nothing of her mom except a murderer’s book with her name in it. She could not risk it being destroyed.

She puts away her crossbow, holds out her hands, and smiles up at the man.

“Did you know a Nadis Four-Eyes? She was my mom. We are friends here to bring you home.”
dangelo
The little clockwork man was startled at first. He crawled away from Yikkol until he was sure she meant no harm , and even then, climbed down with caution. He squinted his eyes to make out her features, puzzled, and then smiled and nodded several times.

He tapped and pointed at his own chest, then mimicked the act of using a screwdriver on different parts of his body. Then he pretended to trip and fall down, and again mimicked someone repairing him. Next, he stood straight and showed his biceps, like a child showing how strong he is, and started walking around the room. After a few steps, he broke down again, pretended to call for help (his mouth moved widely, but he made no sound), but this time no one came to repair him. He cried, or pretended to cry, as he looked around and held his own arms, as someone who is left behind with no one to help.

In the end he pointed at Yikkol, mimicked a mother carrying a baby, and gave her a curious, inquisitive look.
TaiLiu
She nods.

“Yes. She gave birth to me but left when I was young to work on a secret project here. She never came home. I came here to search for her.

“Are you in need of repairs? I can do it. I have the same gift as she does.”
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha points both hands up toward the sound, palms open read to engage the threat, but Yikkol calls out "Don't shoot!". He keeps his hands up for a moment and turns to her, as she approaches Asha slowly lowers his arms. He watches with strange fascination as the creature comes down and begins to pantomime a story. Asha feels a twinge of sadness, though the creature appears to be an automoton of some sort, it has the appearance of a child.   Can it talk?   he says quietly.
dangelo
The little man was a really angry at how Asha talked about him in the third person while he was right there. It seemed like he could understand them perfectly, even if he couldn't talk. His anger, however, vanished very quickly. Since he couldn't speak, the little man exaggerated his emotions and gesticulated excessively to better communicate his thoughts.

To Yikkol's offer to repair him, the little clockwork man shook his head and held his own torso as if protecting it from her. But after a moment, he reconsidered and stood up to ask a question.

First, he raised his arms in the air and pretended to laugh like a villain - For extra emphasis, he moved his index fingers to his mouth, pointing downwards, and pretended they were fangs. Then he pointed at the group and mimicked them plunging a weapon into his own chest. Lastly, he fell down on his back and crossed his arms over his chest, like a dead man laying in a coffin.

The little man sat up and gave them that inquisitive look again.
TaiLiu
Yikkol nods.

“Strahd is our foe. He killed my—our—mother. I intend to make him pay. Would you like to join us?”
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori is panting by the time they reach the top of the tower. Buildings were bad enough, but these endless stairs were torture for one the wrong stature who was born in the saddle.

He tensed when he saw the construct ahead of them. Big folks often let down their guard around those smaller than themselves, not considering them threats. He had no such illusions. What's more, he had both known and fought enough warforged to have a healthy respect for the destructive power of constructs, no matter theur outward appearance. He shook his head, trying tonstay in thr moment and not relive the night glamoured warforged scouts had attacked the recuperation station he was guarding...

 Easy now everyone. Remember where we are. Take things nice an slow. Dont let your guard down. 
dangelo
The clockwork man was hesitant. He stepped back again, like a dog who has been beaten up too many times and knows it's always better to just give space. Only after a long moment of patience and kind words from Yikkol did the little man allow himself to let her approach him.

He jerked his chest-piece open. Inside, an intricate system of gears greased by human blood showed just how capable was the artificer responsible for that invention. The clockwork man was the perfect hybrid between man and machine, with real feelings and a beating heart, responsible brains and functional lungs. He was _alive_, of that there was no doubt. Yikkol's mother had broken the last barrier that surrounded the architect's guild: the ability to create life. She had crossed the enormous gap that separated humanity from divinity. She had given life through her brains, not her womb, and her creation still worked despite the long decades since she disappeared.

In a secret compartment on his chest, there was a platinun amulet shaped like sun and decorated with a large rubi at the center. It had a chain attached to it so it could be worn around the neck. Beside the amulet was an old audiograph card, which could be played by the little clockwork man himself.

The voice took Yikkol back to her dearest memories of her mother and the architect's guild. No vampire lord could be able to make such a perfect illusion - it was really her mother's voice, talking through a window to the past. Her voice sounded grainy and cracked in the old record, but it was definitely her.

She sounded tired.

 The guild chief's diary number thirty seven.

This is the end. I am lost in this maze, and I feel the claws of the Enemy pulling at my shadow. I see horrible things wherever I go - Strahd von Zarovich e is always one step ahead of me! Days have turned into weeks, and now I feel like I have been lost in this castle for years. His illusions are powerful; He tries to distort my perception of time. But I am woman of science - by marking my own arm every time I wake up, I have managed to keep a calendar of my
 besides Pidlwick. You're everything I have now, buddy.  She gave a tired chortle.  I promised I'd keep you safe, and I will. 
dangelo
The clockwork man was hesitant. He stepped back again, like a dog who has been beaten up too many times and knows it's always better to just give space. Only after a long moment of patience and kind words from Yikkol did the little man allow himself to let her approach him.

He jerked his chest-piece open. Inside, an intricate system of gears greased by human blood showed just how capable was the artificer responsible for that invention. The clockwork man was the perfect hybrid between man and machine, with real feelings and a beating heart, responsive brains and functional lungs. He was alive, of that there was no doubt. Whoever had invented that creature - certainly someone with the same power as Yikkol and her mother - had broken the last barrier that surrounded the architect's guild: the ability to create life. Thy had crossed the enormous gap that separated humanity from divinity and given life through their brains, not their womb.

In a secret compartment on his chest, there was a platinum amulet shaped like the sun and decorated with a large rubi in the center. It had a chain attached to it so it could be worn around the neck. Beside the amulet was an old audiograph card, which could be played by the little clockwork man himself. Underneath it, there were blueprints and notes for a project that enhanced the flying suit the fellowship had found in King Katsky's crypt.

The voice took Yikkol back to her dearest memories of her mother and the architect's guild. No vampire lord could be able to make such a perfect illusion - it was really her mother's voice, talking through a window to the past. She sounded grainy and cracked in the old record, but it was undoubtedly her.

She sounded tired.

 The guild chief's diary number seventeen.

This is the end. I am lost in this maze, and I feel the claws of the Enemy pulling at my shadow. I see horrible things wherever I go - Strahd is always one step ahead of me. He tries to distort my perception of time with his illusion tricks, but I am woman of science: by marking my own arm every time I wake up, I have managed to keep a calendar of this expedition, and I know it has only been a couple of weeks since my squad crossed the threshold of Castle Ravenloft. By doing it with the tip of my blade, I have managed to break his illusion every time. The blood is a low price to pay for my sanity, I will much rather let it spill than allow Strahd to drink it!

We came here looking for Katsky. Generations of inventors have tried to find him, so when we heard he had traveled to Barovia, we had to come look for him. But it appears that our arrival was long anticipated by Strahd. He was ready for us. We never found Katsky, and now I lose hope. Rahadin has killed my companions and I know I'll be next. It is but a matter of time. Pidlwick is the only one I have now; I couldn't save my friends, but I can save this poor little creature. Strahd has mistreated him for far too long.

I leave this message as a last resource, a letter in a bottle cast onto the infinite ocean. Where I failed, others can succeed. Whoever you are, if you found this, I beg that you pick up the legacy of my people and destroy the lord of this castle. Find Katsky, who can reestablish the Architect's Guild... and give word to my family that I missed them till the last of my days. Yikkol, I am sorry! I wasn't strong enough. I... couldn't solve this problem. 

The record ends with a loud _clack_. It can be replayed by Pidlwick or an audiograph device.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  96/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  2/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha lowers his head,   I'm so sorry Yikkol,   he says quietly.
TaiLiu
For a long moment Yikkol is silent. Bori says something and then Asha, but Yikkol is too busy replaying her mother's voice in her head.

"It's all right, Mama," she whispers. "We'll kill Strahd and find where Katsky is hiding."

Softly, gently, she reaches for the blueprints and notes—her mother's writing, which is has not beheld before. A clever mechanism. I hadn't thought of that before. Yes, exactly what I would do here. She was a different kind of engineer from her mother, but Yikkol could see the grooves of thinking that her mother's ideas carved out. When the fellowship rested again, she would test some of these ideas out.

"Pidlwick? Have you seen a treasure around? Something of Strahd's or something that can hurt him.

"Or... Are you the treasure? Do you know how to defeat Strahd?"
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was fascinated by the small automaton only for it's craftsmanship; but saw that it held personal value for Yikkol and remained silent and respectful whilst she investigated and conversed with it.

When the amulet inside the automaton was displayed, Zinro guessed that this might be the treasure they were seeking and quietly began to the necessary arcane rites to ritually Identify it. The time it would take him to cast such a thing would hopefully give Yikkol enough time to say what she wanted and allow Zinro to handle the item to Identify it.

 
 Spoiler 
Whilst Yikkol and Pidlwick are interacting with each other, Zinro will Ritual Cast Identify, with the aim of Identifying the Amulet stored in Pidlwick. Zinro needs to use his Pearl of Power as a Material Component (it's not consumed), and will need to handle the Amulet when he's finished.
 
dangelo
[Short Rest in the High Tower]

The castle was terribly quiet as the fellowship marched on to the final battle. They took the stairs from the High Tower Peak to the Catacombs, the longest staircase in the entire castle, entered the discreet doorway to the Brazier Room, opened the door on the left, climbed the stairs to Rahadin's office, and finally reached the room where, centuries ago, Strahd had entered a bloody frenzy and killed his own household guards. From there, a set of double doors would take them to the Hall of Bones, where, according to Ezmerelda's tarokka reading, they would find the Lord of the Castle for their final encounter. Pidlwick tagged along the entire time, often disappearing in the shadows and reappearing up ahead, crawling through cracks and gaps that formed secret tunnels in the ruined walls of Castle Ravenloft.

* * *

"Come forth, child." Strahd staggered to his feet. Even hunched over and weak, he was still far taller than mortal men. His servant knelt obediently and tilted its head to the side, exposing the neck for the vampire lord to bite. He took the spawn in his arms and drained it of all its blood, first in small sips, then in deep gasps and gulps until some of the crimson spilled over his chest and stained his centuries-old breastplate. When it was finally over, the body of the vampire spawn collapsed in a pile of ashes and scattered on the floor of the Hall of Bones. All that remained was the equipment that creature once carried in life, its spellcasting materials and gear. Satisfied, Strahd sat back in his chair and allowed himself a moment of rest.

The last of Sir Theodore's squad also knelt before him, a pathetic little pile of cowardice, shaking in fear of the his might. For a moment, Strahd wondered if it wouldn't have been wiser to drain that one instead... But his body ached for blood, and hunger was the only thing that clouded his wisdom. Either way, what was done was done. He sought comfort in the arms of his remaining bride, who still cried for the loss of Violenta and Ludmilla. "Will you kill them, my lord?" She cried and begged him. "Will you kill these... These...  Champions  who ended them both?"

Strahd didn't reply. He was finally back to his senses, at least temporarily, and there was no time to waste with tears. He reached for his magic mirror and said the ancient magic words, commanding it to spy on his enemies and reveal him their secrets.

Whatever Strahd saw there, it immediately startled him. He had wasted too much time, and his enemies were on the move. It was time to act.

* * *

The fellowship pushed the double doors open, but instead of Strahd von Zarovich, they found the legendary hunter Rudolph van Richten and his protegé Ezmerelda, finally reunited. Both had serious claw wounds all over their bodies, but also wooden stakes soaked in blood in their hands.

"You were too late." Although wounded and exhausted, Van Richten was still triumphant. "Brothers and sisters, I never doubted we would emerge victorious in the end. We must celebrate, now! Together! Strahd could have picked us off one by one, but together we were stronger than him. Vile creature!"
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 71/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: Death Ward 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them 
 Buffs on others: Zinro, Death Ward; Bori, Death Ward  
 
  
During his short rest, Herbert recovers a spell slot, by the grace of Pelor.  As they approach, Herbert prays aloud to Pelor, calling on him for protection.
For Zinro, Bori, and himself:  Death Ward
Spiritual Weapon just before we open the door.
Divine Intervention:   (1d100)[ 7 ]  that Pelor would prevent Strahd from being able to flee battle again, and that he would be less likely to resist our attacks and spells.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  101/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

[[I meant to edit this and include the casting of Haste on Bori, and receiving Warding Bond from Bori, but I took a work call and accidentally turned this into my next post, and erased the short rest hit die I spent. It was 5hp regained from 1d8+3. Sorry for the confusion 😳.]]
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro feigned a smile as they encountered Van Richten and Ezmerelda.   "Good to see you both, and congratulations! It's like you always said: 'In the shadows, where moonlight fears to tread....'"   He was positive this was an illusion, and that asking for the correct code phrase response was a waste of time, but it was important that he followed through on procedures.
dangelo
"Ah, of course. Formalities." Van Richten invited Ezmerelda to announce with him:   "Whispers dance with the forgotten, echoing in the cryptic silence." 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  101/103  | THP:  10/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  
  Not hungry, huh?   Asha looks around,   Where are the vampire's remains?  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori sits quietly, reaching out to the essence that filled the shining helm in his hands, along with Nethis in his mask and Sergei within the blade. He didn't feel peace as such, but a certain calm came with knowing that an end to this horror was in sight, one way or another....

He felt a growl from his mask.   Not this time old friend, I can't bear to lose you again so soon.  

He shakes himself out of his communion state and reflexively starts making sweet snacks for everyone.  Chocolate bon bons anyone? Might as well have something tasty in case it's our last meal! 

He quizzes Zinro and Asha about the gems on his helm and when they might be useful.  So a diamond might be useful at the start, before we all get mixed up with him?

I appreciate rhe help, Asha. I can't face summoning Nethis again and I don't want to slow everyone down

 

He reaches out and the dragonmark on his arm flares. A faith echo appears on Asha's skin.

As they face the door the broken hilt clasped in his hand erupts with light and flame.  Good luck everyone, we've had him cornered before, we can do this again....wait, YOU again?! 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Heals up to full with HD. Anyone else using HD heals an extra 1d8.
Each of us gets 4THP from the bonbons.
Restores a 2nd level spell slot then casts Warding bond on Zinro.
Activates blade and flames from helm.
 
J-H
      
   <span style="font-family: Century

Gothic">  Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73+4thp/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls  against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
Herbert stares at them intently as he moves closer.  He's seen many wounds.  These?  The blood... no time to tell anyone.  He produces the recently acquired Holy Symbol of Ravenkind.   "By the power of Pelor, hold, vampires!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Making sure Herbert is within 30' of them...ideally 15'.  If anyone is nearby and hiding, I want him or her in the area of effect if possible.

 Hold Vampires.  As an action, you can expend 1 charge and present the holy symbol to make it flare with holy power. Vampires and vampire spawn within 30 feet of the holy symbol when it flares must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, a target is paralyzed for 1 minute. It can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns to end the effect on itself.
+
 Turn Undead.  If you have the Turn Undead or the Turn the Unholy feature, you can expend 3 charges when you present the holy symbol while using that feature. When you do so, undead have disadvantage on their saving throws against the effect.
Van Helsing  (1d20)[ 4 ]  or  (1d20)[ 19 ]   + ??
Esmerelda  (1d20)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20)[ 3 ]   + ??
If there's time and range, Spiritual Weapon vs Van Helsing  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 11 ]  force damage as a BA.
 
TaiLiu
While the party rested, Yikkol gathered nearby rubble and loose stones and placed it in a large bag alongside Rahadin's skull. Pidlwick helped with pebbles and the smallest rocks. The castle was crumbling apart. It was not a difficult task.

Yikkol liked the poetry of it—Strahd being defeated by his own castle. When the party was finally ready, she threw the bag over her shoulder and followed. Tonight, Strahd would die.

Or, he would if anyone could find him. In the hall of bones they found Van Richten and Ezmerelda, bloodied and wounded. Strahd was nowhere to be found. Van Richten claimed he was defeated, but his holiness didn't seem to believe him, and that was enough proof for Yikkol.

She cracks a yellow diamond and tosses the pieces into the bag. The stones disappear. Then, in a burst of golden magic, it reappears behind the pair of vampire hunters.

She orders it to defend itself and prepare for battle.

 
 Action to activate her yellow diamond and summon an earth elemental. 
 Earth elemental ordered to Dodge. 
 
Waistcoatwill
[COLOR="#006400"] Bori[ /COLOR]

 Oh no, you arrogant fools. Why couldn't you just work with us?
 

As Yikkol begins to throw her yellow gem, a blast of iridescent light burst forth from the helm. Rainbow reflections scatter around the room but before they die down Borinis leaping into action. Like a tiny comet he blurs across the intervening space. The glowing blade lashes out at the patronising git that caused this catastrophe. Both vampires are bathed in further lights from both helm and blade.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Prismatic spray - 3 diamonds remaining
Von Richten dex save  (1d20)[ 19 ]  vs DC 18
Colour  (1d8)[ 4 ] 
Damage  (10d6)[ 37 ]  Poison

Ezmerelda dex save  (1d20)[ 3 ]  vs DC 18
Colour  (1d8)[ 7 ] 
 Damage  (10d6)[ 34 ]   Blinded! DC 18 wis save at start of Bori next turn to see if she's banished to another plane.

Move over to them.

Attack 1 vs VR  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 16 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire.

Attack 2 vs VR  (1d20+11)[ 26 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 17 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire.

Both take 1d6 radiant damage at the start of their turns from the helm and are currently in sunlight from the blade.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro wasn't quite sure what was happened - these appeared to be Van Richten and Ezmerelda standing in front of them - but there was something  wrong  about the situation. The other members of the party sensed it too and rushed forward.

The sunlight from the Sunblade hurt Zinro's eyes, so he instead moved behind Herbert and cast a spell of speed upon Asha.

As a precaution, Zinro also drew the Mace of Terror from his belt.

 
 Spoiler 
Move behind Herbert.
Main Action to cast Haste (3rd Level) on Asha.
 
dangelo
 Hall of Bones
Round 1 

Two more creatures had been clinging to the ceiling, hiding in the cracks and gaps of the ruined structures of Castle Ravenloft, until it was the right moment to attack. One of them was Anastrasya Karelova, the bride in crimson who had almost been destroyed in the last battle; She went straight for Zinro, lashing her claws at the spellcaster as Strahd had told her to do.

 
 Spoiler 
Stealth 12 against Perception 22

Claws (1d20+6)[11]
Claws/Bite (1d20+6)[17]

If grappled, will Bite. If not, will Claw again.
If grappling is successful, will drag Zinro 3 squares to the north. If not, will move away causing OA.
 

The second silhouette was quite familiar to the fellowship. From the nimble movements to the dark cloak, the bloody claws and black hair, pale complexion and impressive might; Her eyes glowing bright crimson, Rue let herself drop from the ceiling and attacked Bori with all her fury.

 
 Spoiler 
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 20 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 10 ] 
 

Meanwhile, Strahd phased through the floor with a spell already in his hands. Under Zinro's countercharm, the vampire tapped into his power and reinforced his magic with much more arcane energy than it would have been necessary, overcoming Zinro's nullifying spell with another of his own. He didn't fly this time, but seemed to cling to the ceiling of the room below - His upper body was only exposed for a second before he disappeared under the floor, safe from the sunlight that irradiated from Bori's sword.

 
 Spoiler 
Wall of Fire:  (5d8)[ 27 ]  or half (Dex save, DC 18)
Yikkol  (1d20+4)[ 23 ] 
Herbert  (1d20-1)[ 0 ] 
Asha  (1d20+2)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
 


In the center of the Hall of Bones, the Vampire Spawn who once had been the legendary hunter Rudolph Van Richten attacked Bori with his claws. The sunlight burned his skin and kept him from regenerating, but the creature cared not for his own safety.

 
 Spoiler 
Claws (1d20+6)[10]
Claws/Bite (1d20+6)[13]

If grappled, will Bite. If not, will Claw again.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As the spawn leaps to claw and drag him away, Zinro reactively casts a spell to shield himself from the grasping fingers of the horror.

 
 Spoiler 
Reaction to cast Shield (1st Level). Claw Attacks miss, AC is 21 until my turn.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  26 (Warding Bond, Haste)  | HP:  101/103  | THP:  4/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage), Haste (target)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha feels a pang of pain for Van Richten and Ezmerelda seeing them turned into spawn. He did not appreciate the elder vampire hunter's arrogance, but certainly neither of them deserved this fate. He does not have long to think on it though as Strahd appears, alongside his last remaining bride and... Rue. A wall of flame rises up around Asha and the others, but Bori's magic and the bionoid armor protect him. He rushes forward to keep Rue from focusing on Bori.

Shield before him, Asha throws a few punches but tries to get Rue to see reason,   Rue, snap out of it! You're not Strahd's pawn!  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 

  Movement   - Move adjacent to Rue.
  Action   - Attack Rue.
Attack 1 -  (1d20+11)[ 21 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
Attack 2 -  (1d20+11)[ 30 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
  Haste Action   - Attack Rue.
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 28 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 

If any of the thunder gauntlets hit, Rue has Disadvantage to attack anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn.
 
dangelo
Seeing Asha focus his attacks on Rue, the spawn who once had been Ezmerelda jumped on the Void Knight with her fangs out, eager to drink his blood.

 
 Spoiler 
Claws  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Claws or Bite  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Asha is Grappled. (escape DC 13)
 

Two arrows come flying at Asha from the far side of the room, shot by the Ranger from Sir Theodore's squad. The coward remained safely away from sunlight, aiming his shots from an open door beyond the Hall of Bones.

 
 Spoiler 
Longbow  (1d20+6)[ 7 ]  for  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 
Longbow  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+3)[ 6 ] 
 
J-H
Herbert commands his spiritual weapon to attack the vampire assailing lord Zinro, then moves out of the flames and puts his hand on the Raven holy symbol, preparing to draw it out the moment he sees the count.

Spiritual weapon bonus action  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  force vs the red bride.
Move three squares down and to the left so that I'm not within melee range of anybody, but deeper within the room, ready action to use holy symbol to force all vampires to save against paralysis at disadvantage per above the moment he comes into view. Rolls already made for Es and Vh.
TaiLiu
With a gasp, Yikkol leaps out of the way, avoiding the fire that suddenly sprouted beneath her. She watches in horror as Rue claws at Asha. Clearly unturned—why was she fighting on his side? Was it a spell?

She fires at Van Richten, grabbing one of her electric bolts as she does so. He was arrogant and she disliked him for defying his holiness, but she did not wish his fate on anyone. She follows her attack with a vial of holy water.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 25 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 13 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 16 ]  magical piercing.  (1d6)[ 6 ]  lightning. 
 Cunning Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6)[ 9 ]  radiant. 
 
She rumbles in Terran: "Crush him! Aim for his head."

The earth elemental obeys, raising its fists up high before bringing them down on Van Richten.

 
 Attacks:  (1d20+8)[ 12 ]  and  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d8+5)[ 15 ]  and  (2d8+5)[ 9 ]  bludgeoning, respectively. 
 

EDIT: Yikkol and the Earth Elemental do 38 damage total.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori grunts in pain and turns to swing at his assailant, turning the slash at the last moment to strike at Von Richten once more.

 By the Sovereigns, Rue, don't let him control you like this. Snap out of it!
 
He does his best to destroy the failed vampire hunters in front of him, relying on Asha to defend him from Rue. The glowing blade casting strobe shadows around the room.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Three attacks against VR, switching to Ezmerelda if he goes down. He'll drop a level 1 Smite on VR and another if he gets to Ezmerelda.

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 18 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 10 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire.

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 18 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire.

Attack 3  (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 16 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 1 ]  fire.

Smite 1  (3d8)[ 16 ]  radiant
 
dangelo
Bori thrust the blade of Sergei von Zarovich deep in the chest of the vampire who once had been Van Richten. The blade lamented the deed, but didn't shy away from its purpose of slaying undead. When Van Richten finally faced Final Death, for one moment before his body turned to ashes, his eyes shifted from red to the normal blue, and he looked at Bori with gratitude. A short sentence slipped from his mouth:  "Thank you." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro saw the silhouettes of his companions leave the wall of fire, and found himself alone on this side of the fire; along with the bride. This would not do. He visualised the room beyond and muttered some arcane words of power, then he stepped forward, almost into the wall of fire itself, before appearing inside the Hall proper. Assessing the situation quickly once he arrived, he moved to be beside Yikkol, so that he had protection from Bori's aura and was close to his companions.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to cast Dimension Door, visualising a space just beyond the Wall of Fire.
Move Action to move beside Yikkol.
Maintain Concentration on Haste.
 
dangelo
Anastrasya can't be seen behind the wall of fire. You can hear her running towards Rahadin's office.

Strahd emerges through the floor again, and Herbert immediately raises the Amulet of Ravenkind in the air. Both Ezmerelda and Anastrasya are paralyzed, but the Count struggled free - his eyes glowed red, his **** grew in his jaw, and the beast inside him managed to free him from the trap. Strahd hissed loudly at Herbert.

Legendary Resistance used once.

Strahd tries to cast Fireball, but Zinro stops him with his own arcane prowess. Whether Strahd has exhausted his arcane reserves or simply chooses not to engage in a mage duel with Zinro, it's unclear - he vanishes through the floor again.

 Yikkol  (1d20+8)[ 21 ] 
Herbert  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Asha  (1d20+6)[ 22 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 20 ]  (Haste)
Bori  (1d20+9)[ 25 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  (Haste)
Zinro  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Earth Elemental  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 

Rue  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
Ezmerelda  (1d20+6)[ 10 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 25 ]  (Desecrated Ground)

Fireball damage: (8d6)[32] 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As Strahd begins to weave more magic to use against the party, Zinro once again traces arcane symbols to block the magic from activating.

 
 Spoiler 
Reaction to use Counterspell at 4th Level. If the spell is 4th or lower, it's instantly countered. Otherwise spellcasting ability check vs DC 10+spell level:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ] 
 
dangelo
Rue attacks Zinro three times. You've seen her rage before -- this is different. She has absolutely no control of her actions.

Claws  (1d20+9)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 20 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Rue had spent more time with Zinro than any of the other enemies present on the field, so she knew how to get him to lose concentration. Her first swipe catches him clean across the face, breaking his concentration on Haste and causing a wave of lethargy to spread over Asha.

 
 Spoiler 
Concentration on Haste lost, Asha cannot Move or take Actions until after their next turn.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  25 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  101/103  | THP:  4/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha hits Rue with another fist as she makes a run for Zinro. He goes to give chase but the magic enhancing his speed suddenly leaves him and he is left with a wave of lethargy, unable to move or act.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
Haste is lost, and Asha is lethargic for this turn.
 
J-H
Herbert intones a prayer, and Pelor sends glowing warriors to surround him.
 
 Spoiler 

Bonus action, move the spiritual weapon 20 feet closer. It's somewhere around the wall of fire now and should come back into play next round.
Cast Spirit guardians, 15 ft radius. Within that radius is difficult to rain for enemies, and when they start their turn into space or move into it for the first time, they take 3d8 radiant damage, wisdom save for half, pretty sure my DC is 16. If it's possible to Pivot around and through to being closer to where strahd is popping out without provoking an opportunity attack, I will do that.
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol grins as a wave of divine energy surrounds Herbert. The Fates were on their side. They were going to win!

She takes a step back and fires at Ez. The poor woman trusted her master and met a terrible fate.

 
 Cunning Action (Disengage) and move 5 feet away. 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ]  
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 15 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 20 ]  magical piercing.  (1d6)[ 1 ]  lightning. 
 
Yikkol points at Ez and says something in Terran. The earth elemental moves closer and headbutts the woman hard.

 
 Moves 5 feet closer to the center of action. 
 Attacks:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  and  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d8+5)[ 15 ]  and  (2d8+5)[ 16 ]  bludgeoning, respectively. 
 
“Strahd!” shouts Yikkol.

The earth elemental gestures to the spot where he was hiding and the half-orc moves closer to that spot.

 
 Moves 15 feet, adjacent to Asha. 
 

EDIT: At least 31 damage to Ez. 36 additional damage if her AC is 15 or lower, for a total of 67 damage.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was in melee contact, and had very limited means of escape with which Rue couldn't follow him. Instead, he hoped that the Mace of Terror he had picked up so long ago would finally come in handy here.

He raised the Mace high and activated it's ability, triggering a wave of terror to wash over Rue and Ezmerelda. There was little else he could do.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to use Mace of Terror ability: Each creature of my choice in a 30-foot radius extending from me must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened of me for 1 minute. Targeting both Rue and Ezmerelda. Not sure if they have Advantage of Disadvantage, so will roll twice for both and please take the necessary rolls.

Rue Wisdom Save:  (1d20)[ 3 ] +mods or  (1d20)[ 6 ] +mods vs 15
Ezmerelda Wisdom Save:  (1d20)[ 5 ] +mods or  (1d20)[ 16 ] +mods vs 15

No movement or Bonus Action usage.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The slight surge of relief Bori felt at seeing a glimmer of humanity return to Van Richten was shirt lived. A manar-cursed Ezmerelda still stood before him and Rue was running amok as if she was an entirely different person.

 Rue, snap out of it!  His marked subconsciously fuelled his shout, a bizarre echo resonating out from him.

With a backhand blow, he lashed out at Ezmerelda, trying to put her out of her misery as well.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Action - cast calm emotions, Charisma save DC 16  which catches Ezmerelda and Rue, attempting to suppress fear and charm effects they are under the influence of. (Concentration up to 1 minute).

Rue -  (1d20)[ 14 ] 
Ezmerelda-  (1d20)[ 9 ] 

Haste Attack vs Ezmerelda with level 1 smite
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+11)[ 27 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 17 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 2 ]  fire and  (3d8)[ 13 ] 
(Autocriits if it connects).
 
dangelo
Ezmerelda collapsed into ashes under the circular strikes of Bori's sunsword. Black blood was spilled in wide arcs until the vampire couldn't sustain her wounds anymore, and her body was finally destroyed. While she didn't have the same willpower as her master and didn't manage to utter a final word of gratitude like him, her spirit found peace once it was detached from that cursed body - or at least it would, once it was free from the Mist that trapped all lost souls in the Domain of Dread that was the Valley of Barovia.

Rue shook her head in confusion. She looked from Bori to the others, scared and confused. There was a last impulse to keep fighting, but fear overcame her and the young dhampir bolted. She ran off to the nearest exist, the Guards' Stairs to the south, and disappeared in the shadows.

Strahd: Hide action
 (1d20+14)[ 23 ] 

Herbert: Perception:  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
Yikkol: Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 13 ] 
Zinro: Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 
Bori: Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 13 ]  (Sentinel Shield)
Asha: Perception  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 55/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert walks over to Bori and lays a glowing hand upon him.   "Well done.  Be healed.  We have more." 
 
 Spoiler: 3rd level Cure Wounds 

 (3d8+9)[ 22 ] 
Herbert is healed 5hp by casting this.
 

He shouts loud and clear.   "Count Strahd von Zarovich, come out!  You betrayed your brother, then failed to hide his blade away, and now you face it again!  Not only did you fail your brother - you also failed his beloved, and the memory of your parents, and the people of Barovia, who starve and beg for food, and your so-called brides, who died while you hid.  Come out, Count of Failure!  Or do you fear failing to meet your judgement?  Coward!" 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro moved to consolidate with the rest of the party. He readied himself to throw a bolt of fire at any hostile creatures coming at them: whether it was Strahd himself or another. The sunlight didn't help his aim, but he at least wanted to contribute if foes did try to rush the party once again.   "We need to be mindful of the Bride that escaped to the North."   He said.   "They may return to ambush us again."  
 
 Spoiler 
Move up to the group.
Ready an Action to cast Fire Bolt (cantrip) at the first hostile creature that I can target. The Sunlight will give him Disadvantage to Perception and Attack Rolls; but unfortunately gotta accept that.
 
TaiLiu
"You heard his holiness! Submit!"

Yikkol and the elemental ready attacks for when Strahd is within range again.
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori nods in thanks to Herbert.

 We need to get out of here, this cursed ground is making him even more resilient.

If I can't dismiss this then I suggest you stay close and we walk through the fire. I can shelter you from the worst of the heat.

Bori reaches out to the spirits of the air, trying to learn their nature and gain their aid when he needs to unpick the arcane flames blocking their path. 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Action : Cast guidance.
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol frowns. She isn't too sure about this.

"Didn't the prophecy say that we must face him in the hall of bones? Your holiness, if we leave, won't the Fates—er, Pelor—lose their ability to keep him here?

"We are at a disadvantage in this cursèd hall. But if we leave, won't Strahd have the entire castle to run around in?"
dangelo
Initiative 20: The door to the East is shut closed. Opening it costs an Action and requires a successful Strength check (DC 20)

Initiative 19: Strahd remains hidden.

 "You call me a failure... A coward..."  The Count's voice could be heard through the wall, now almost reduced to a whisper.  "Yet you storm my castle and surround me, flail me, cut me schreds. Face me one-on-one, and I will show you some grace. Act like bandits, and I will show you darkness." 
Waistcoatwill
 Bori 
 Bandits? You pulled us here with your mists. If you don'twant gueats that you think are "polite" then don't kidnap people!

You're clearly suffering here, we can release you from that. What do you have left to cling to? 

Bori reaches out to the spirits of the air, hoping for their aid in tearing down the wall of flame.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Dispel magic level 3 with guidance.

 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  plus  (1d4)[ 4 ]  vs DC 14
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol rolls her eyes. A pathetic attempt to manipulate the party. She wordlessly gestures at the door with her thumb. The earth elemental lumbers forward and attempts to smash through it.

 
 Attacks:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  and  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d8+5)[ 18 ]  and  (1d8+5)[ 9 ] , respectively. 
 Double the damage cuz the door is an object. 
 
EDIT: 18 damage total.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro simply moves with the party, keeping an eye out for threats, despite the harshness of the sunlight, and keeps bolt of fire ready to fling at Strahd or another hostile creature.

 
 Spoiler 
On his turn, Zinro will simply move to keep in contact with the party, he'll keep a look out, and Ready a Fire Bolt (Cantrip) to throw at the first hostile creature he can see and target.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  25 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  101/103  | THP:  4/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha helps the elemental try to bash down the locked doors.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 

  Move   - Move adjacent to doors.
  Action   - Attack doors with gauntlet.
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 19 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 18 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 
  Move   - Move back next to Bori.
 
J-H
Herbert readies an attack with his mace, should Strahd appear next to him.
dangelo
The Earth Elemental burst through the thick wooden doors, only to reveal an empty hallway. Strahd was nowhere to be seen, but his voice continued to echo through the stone walls.  "How dare you take everything from me? My brides, my children, my own castle!"  The origin of the sound seemed to circle the fellowship, whispering through the very cracks on the walls.  "Do you have any idea of what I went through to build this domain? The hordes of enemies, savage champions thinking only of glory. Kill the Devil Strahd!, is what they say, in the name of gods that simply don't exist. There is no good. There is no evil. There is only power, and those strong enough to wield it. For you mortals, there is only flesh." 

His confidence built up with every word. After a moment of silence, Strahd jumped out of the shadows and revealed himself all the way back at Rahadin's door. He raised both his hands, and another Wall of Fire erupted from Yikkol and Herbert's feet.

"I won't let you take this from me." The vampire said before disappearing into Rahadin's office.

The door has also been closed in the same manner as the last one.

Wall of Fire damage  (5d8)[ 25 ] , Dex save DC 18
Yikkol  (1d20+12)[ 14 ] 
Herbert  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

As Strahd appeared, Zinro threw the Readied Bolt of Fire at him, despite the sunlight.

 
 Spoiler 
Disadvantage due to Sunlight Sensitivity:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 19 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 10 ]  Fire Damage
 


As a brand new Wall of Fire erupted, Zinro shielded his face from the intense heat.   "This is hopeless. We need a way to lock Strahd down, otherwise he can simply float through the walls with impunity."  
J-H
      
   <span style="font-family: Century

Gothic">  Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 42/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
 "Perhaps a smaller room with shorter sight lines?  We can at least leave this hall of bones for less desecrated ground while we pursue him."   Herbert lays a healing hand on Yikkol, then moves north into the next room, still surrounded by glowing angelic figures.   "Right now, his fear is stronger than his anger." 
 
 Spoiler 

Second level cure wounds  (2d8+8)[ 15 ] 
This heals Herbert by 4, from 38 to 42.
 

The glowing mace of Pelor follows him north (Spiritual Weapon back out of the Hall of Bones).
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  "How dare you take everything from me? My brides, my children, my own castle!"  The origin of the sound seemed to circle the fellowship, whispering through the very cracks on the walls.  "Do you have any idea of what I went through to build this domain? The hordes of enemies, savage champions thinking only of glory. Kill the Devil Strahd!, is what they say, in the name of gods that simply don't exist. There is no good. There is no evil. There is only power, and those strong enough to wield it. For you mortals, there is only flesh."  
 

"You are terribly wrong about that, Strahd," Yikkol said. "The Fates do exist, and they have sent us here to destroy you."

An explosion of fire stops her speech and singes her skin.


 
 Originally Posted by The Commander 
   "This is hopeless. We need a way to lock Strahd down, otherwise he can simply float through the walls with impunity."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Perhaps a smaller room with shorter sight lines?  We can at least leave this hall of bones for less desecrated ground while we pursue him."   Herbert lays a healing hand on Yikkol, then moves north into the next room, still surrounded by glowing angelic figures.   "Right now, his fear is stronger than his anger."  
 

"On it, your holiness!"

Yikkol barks something in Terran. Then she pulls out her sword, leaps forward, and within a few seconds is on top of Strahd.

 
 Item interaction to pull out her rapier. 
 Move up to 90 feet cuz of Dash, Dash (Cunning Action), and her move. 
 
The earth elemental lumbers forward and follows after Yikkol. It charges through the flames and out of the hall with surprising speed, passing Herbert on the way.

 
 Move and Dash 60 feet. 
 Takes  (5d8)[ 27 ]  fire damage, which is halved thanks to Bori. It take 13 damage. 113 hit points left. 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 We took everything from you? If power is everything you've just been to weak to stop us and you're the only one to blame. Or maybe you're just a hypocrite! 

Bori waits for thr others to pass through the wall of fire then lunges through himself. Hoping against hope that his helmet doesn't explode.

He hacks at the door with his blade, hoping to close the distance before Asha'a spell wore off.

 
 Spoiler: Actions  

Haste dash to move 60ft to the door.
Fire damage from the wall 1/4  (5d8)[ 18 ]  (fire resistance and aura)

Helmet goes boom?  (1d20)[ 15 ] 

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 10 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 8 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was grateful for Bori's protective aura as he took a running leap through the Wall of Fire.

As soon as he was safely across to the other side, he uncorked a Greater Healing Potion and quaffed it.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump through the Wall of Fire. Dex save for half, DC 18:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  for  (5d8)[ 18 ]  Fire Damage, Bori's Aura halves damage.
Continue to remain in contact with the party.
Action to drink a Greater Healing Potion: [roll4d4+4[/roll]
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  25 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  93/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha leaps through the wall of fire,   We need to pin this bastard down!  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 4 

Dash to square adjacent to Bori (as far as I can get to).
25 damage, no save, Resisted (Warding Bond, Paladin Aura, pick your poison lol) to 12 damage.
 
dangelo
Legendary Actions (x3): Move, move, move. All the way towards the Brazier Room.

Lair Action: The secret door to the Brazier Room closes.

Strahd: Hide action and move
 (1d20+14)[ 16 ] 

Herbert: Perception:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
Yikkol: Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 18 ] 
Zinro: Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
Bori: Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 11 ]  (Sentinel Shield)
Asha: Perception  (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
 "I shall take none of this foolery."  His voice continued to echo. A mix of anger and shame fueled some newfound rage.  "I brought you here to entertain me, and that's what you shall do. You think of yourselves as heroes, but you are nothing but toys. Your gods can't find you here. Your lineages will end in my domain." 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro simply continues to move with the party and Readies a Fire Bolt; having very little he can contribute now that is his spell energy is practically exhausted.

 
 Spoiler 
Move back up to the party, Ready a Fire Bolt as usual
 
TaiLiu
The earth elemental steps up and smashes through the door with ease.

 
 The elemental moves 30 feet in total. 
 In-between, it breaks through the door. 
 

 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
  "I shall take none of this foolery."  His voice continued to echo. A mix of anger and shame fueled some newfound rage.  "I brought you here to entertain me, and that's what you shall do. You think of yourselves as heroes, but you are nothing but toys. Your gods can't find you here. Your lineages will end in my domain."  
 

Strahd's speech found no purchase in Yikkol's mind. They'd come so far. Despite the difficulty, it would be foolhardy to give in to despair now.

Instead, she focuses her senses on his hurried footsteps. Down, down—and then sideways and up.

"He's climbing up to the brazier room's ceiling," Yikkol said quietly. "No doubt an ambush awaits us."

She steps up to another locked door and tries to push it open. It doesn't budge.

"Magically locked."

Yikkol uncorks a vial of acid and pours it into the lock. She hopes to corrode it enough that the door can be shoved open.

 
 Moves 30 feet to the door. 
 Cunning Action (Use an Object) to pour acid into a lock.  (2d6)[ 8 ]  acid damage if that matters. 
 If she can, she'll her object interaction to shove open the door &amp; use her Action to move 30 more feet. 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  25 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  93/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha follows after Yikkol and the elemental and tries his luck against the next door.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 5 
  Move   - Move adjacent to next door.
  Action   - Attack the door with Thunder Gauntlet
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 18 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 15 ] 
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 24 ] 
Damage -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 12 ] 
 
J-H
 Herbert 

Herbert follows the two (dash 60'), his spiritual weapon following behind (move 20').
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

As the fist of the elemental reduces the door to kindling, Bori tumbles between the hulking form's legs and races towards the next set of doors.

He hacks wildly at the wood once more, determined to stop Strahd from escaping them once more.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 12 ]  plus (1d6)[ 5 ]  fire

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 29 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 11 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 1 ]  fire

Attack 3 (haste)  (1d20+11)[ 30 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 15 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 5 ]  fire

If he deatroys the door in his frist twwo hits he'lluse his haste object interaction to chick a gem instead.
 
dangelo
The soul of Sergei von Zarovich was a powerful one, and allied to the Helm of Brilliance, Yikkol's acid and Asha's hammer fists, destroyed the door with haste. They were greeted by the empty hallway that lead down to the Brazier Room, which Rahadin used to teleport all over the castle in his day.

All the way on the other side of the battlefield, Strahd executed his plan. The vampire lord phased through the walls and cast a spell, this time targeting only Lord Zinro. He didn't phase immediately after attacking, instead remaining in the battlefield for everyone to see. "You think you can defeat me in my own castle? Fools! You're nothing but fools, just like Van Richten and that insufferable protégé of his."

Scorching Ray vs. AC 16
1st Ray:  (1d20+10)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+10)[ 19 ]  for  (2d6)[ 2 ]  fire damage (surprise attack)
2nd Ray:  (1d20+10)[ 26 ]  for  (2d6)[ 4 ]  fire damage
3rd Ray:  (1d20+10)[ 24 ]  for  (2d6)[ 3 ]  fire damage

Zinro's readied action: Fire Bolt vs AC 16
 (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  for  (2d10)[ 9 ]  fire damage
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro yelped as the rays of fire scorched at him, but he gave as good as he got, if not better, as he threw a return bolt of fire at Strahd.   "Strahd flanks us! Quickly, we must press on!"  
 Zinro is bloodied. 

Zinro quickly moved to get as far away from Strahd as possible and began heading down the corridor. He was still very much aware of the bride's escape down this way, and so chose not to round the corner before anyone else.

 
 Spoiler 
Dash down the corridor, but stop short of turning the corner
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol and the earth elemental continue moving forward. Now at the cauldron, she searches for the yellow orb that will teleport the party to Strahd's tomb. If she finds it, she'll pick it up.
dangelo
- Strahd's Legendary Action after Zinro's round: Move through the walls.

- Bride's readied action (Trigger: Anyone coming through the room)

Yikkol ran down the stairs to the Brazier Room. Everything was right where it should be at first glance, but as soon as she crossed the threshold, Strahd's remainig bride burst out of her hiding place and attacked - not Yikkol, but the huge hourglass above the Brazier. The chains snapped under her claws and the beautiful instrument came crashing down on top of the Brazier, making a loud bang and destroying the teleportation device permanently.

The open door slammed shut. The two nine-foot-tall iron statues of knights on horseback suddenly gained life, and poison gas was issued from the mouths of their horses.

 
 Spoiler 
Poison Breath 1:  (10d8)[ 43 ] 
Con save  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 

Poison Breath 2:  (10d8)[ 40 ] 
Con save  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 

- Strahd's Legendary Action after Yikkol's round: Move towards Yikkol.

"I thought I had eliminated the last of your kind a long time ago, Four-Eyes. It's time to finish what we started."
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 48/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
While Strahd stands in the Hall of Bones, Herbert moves south out of Rahadin's office, brandishing the holy symbol of Ravenkind once more, while Pelor's glowing mace attacks.  He then backs up into the office to keep anyone within it inside the protective aura of the icon.

 
 Spoiler 

Moved 10' SE to get within 30' of Strahd, act, then 5' back up to just inside the door.
Action: Hold Vampire, Wis DC 15 or paralyze.  Probably will be LR'd away, but  (1d20)[ 4 ] +whatever.  Consumes 1 charge, 6 remain.
BA:  Spiritual Weapon  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 12 ]  force as it should still be within 20' of Strahd's position.
Advantage if paralyzed   (1d20+8)[ 16 ] 
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  25 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  93/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  1/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Starlight Step:  3/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha chases after Yikkol but as he turns the corner he sees her dash into the next chamber and the door slam shut behind her. The elemental stops where it is. Asha calls upon the starlight powers of the void and blinks closer to the door. Not quite close enough to smash through, but he raises his hand and aims a gauntlet at the door, releasing a blast of thunderous energy against it.   Yikkol's trapped in the room with Strahd!   he calls back to the others.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 6 
  Movement   - Move down the corridor (curse to the Mists that I don't have 35ft of movement!)
  Bonus Action   - Starlight Step
  Action   - Shatter vs Door
 Damage  -   Thunder  - (3d8)[ 17 ] 
 
dangelo
Advantage on Wis save against Herbert:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 

Legendary Action after Asha's round: Attack Yikkol
 (1d20+9)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro had been worried something like this would happen - the bride had gotten ahead of them and hadn't been seen since, so it was reasonable to assume they had laid a trap; and it seemed like poor Yikkol had stepped right into it.

As Zinro rounded the corner to the shouts of Asha, he saw the Earth Elemental looking confused, and then angry. Whatever was happening to it, it seemed, at least at a glance, that Yikkol was not fully in control of it for the moment. There was no hope of getting past the Elemental, large as it was and blocking the corridor, so Zinro did the only thing he could and flung a bolt of fire at the door ahead of them.

Regardless of whether the door was still standing, Zinro returned to cover behind the corner. He knew the Elemental could just simply walk around and hit him; but he hoped that Asha would be the most obviously visible target if it decided to become hostile.

 
 Spoiler 
Step around the corner
Main Action to cast Fire Bolt (cantrip) at the door. Ranged Spell Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 18 ]  Fire Damage.
Step back into the cover of the corner
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori sprints down the corridor  amd dives under the hulking form of the earth elemental as it starts to act erratically. Bursting through the smouldering wreckage of the door, he sees Strahd standing over Yikkol.

 Get away from her you beast!  As Bori slides to halt he unleashes anwave of power from his mark, soothing pain and restoring energy in the broken form. He glares at Strahd, standing close by until Yikkol can regain her footing. The blazing light of the blade washes over the vampires. Only then does Bori notice the hulking metal forms and begin to regret his actions.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Dash plus move since Bori forgot to move down the corridor after smashing the previous door.

Action - Lay on Hands, 45 points of healing for Yikkol.

If Bori is able to shepherd the revived yikkol back slightly into the corridor he will, otherwise he stands next to her, up in Strahd's  face  waist.
 
dangelo
Helm of Brilliance radiant damage:  (1d6)[ 2 ]  on Strahd and Anastrasya

Opportunity Attack on Bori: [roll]1d20+9[/roll

Initiative 20: No doors are shut.

Initiative 19: Strahd begins his round in sunlight. He takes 20 damage and doesn't regenerate this round.

Strahd raised his claws to parry Bori's attacks. His cloak was thorn and ripped, his thick skin presenting a true challenge even for a sacred blade. Hundreds of years had passed since sunlight had shone in Barovia, and for a moment Strahd saw his own brother instead of the halfling, Sergei von Zarovich himself. His sword had been broken, but his soul persisted as the blade fell over and over at Strahd's cursed body.

Before the paladin could retreat with Yikkol, however, the vampire lord lowered his guard and counter attacked. He grabbed Bori by the arm with an iron fist, his cold touch squeezing Bori's bones painfully. Since the halfling had nowhere to run, Strahd jumped on him and tried to drink his blood straight from the neck.

Seeing Asha up ahead, Strahd let go of Bori and retreated, phasing through the floor. His bride retreated too, climbing the walls of the Brazier Room. (Disengage action)

The Earth Elemental attacks Asha twice.
Slam:  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  for  (2d8+5)[ 14 ] 
Slam:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ]  for  (2d8+5)[ 14 ] 

One iron knight uses Poison Breath, the other one attacks Yikkol twice

Poison Breath:  (8d10)[ 39 ] 

Constitution save (DC 19)
Bori:  (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
Yikkol:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 

Two attacks on Yikkol: (Advantage due to Prone)

Slam:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+13)[ 17 ]  for  (3d8+7)[ 23 ]  bludgeoning damage
Sword:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  for  (3d810+7)[ 1853 ]  slashing damage
dangelo
Sword damage:  (3d10+7)[ 29 ] , not 3d810.
dangelo
Errata:

[Iron Knight A]
Poison Breath also hit Asha (15-foot cone) for  39  poison damage
Con save  (1d20+11)[ 18 ]  (+4 from Bori)

[Iron Knight B]
Yikkol and Bori were both out of their reach, so both attacks targeted Asha. No Advantage since Asha isn't prone, so I'm keeping the first dice rolled on each attack:  14  and  21 . Both attacks miss. (AC 24 I think)

[Earth Elemental]
Opportunity Attack on Bori  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  for  (2d8+5)[ 12 ] 
J-H
      
   <span style="font-family: Century

Gothic">  Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls

against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Leaving his spiritual weapon behind near the door to the room of bones, Herbert heads west and up the stairs, hearing moans, groans, and impacts ahead of him, including the sound of a body hitting the floor.  Still surrounded by glowing angelic forms, he calls upon the might of Pelor with an encouraging shout.
 
 Spoiler 

Leave SW in place.
Move 30' west.  Mass Cure Wounds does  not  specify being able to see the targets, and originates from a point instead of the caster.  I don't know why, but I'll use it that way.
 
 Spoiler: MCW 

Casting Time: 1 action
Range/Area: 60ft./30ft.
Components: V, S
Duration: Instantaneous
Source: PHB, pg. 258

A wave of healing energy washes out from a point of your choice within range. Choose up to six creatures in a 30-foot-radius sphere centered on that point. Each target regains hit points equal to 3d8 + your spellcasting ability modifier. This spell has no effect on undead or constructs.
 

Token moved, and I can easily put the centerpoint behind the EE and get everyone.
All heal  (3d8+11)[ 29 ] 
Herbert heals 7hp more.
 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by dangelo 
 "I thought I had eliminated the last of your kind a long time ago, Four-Eyes. It's time to finish what we started." 
 

"I will avenge my mother. Prepare to die, Strahd!"

So focused is Yikkol on her mother's killer that she fails to notice the trap sprung upon her. As poison gas surrounds her and fills her lungs, Yikkol's eyes widen and she drops to her knees. For a moment, everything goes dark.

She awakens, briefly, from Bori's magical healing. Then another strike from a knight knocks her out again. She awakens a second time and feels the light of the Fates fill her lungs. His holiness!

Unaware of the hostility of her former elemental companion, she turns her back to it and fires at one of the knights.

 
 Attack (Steady Aim w/ Disadvantage):  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 9 ]  magical piercing plus  (1d6)[ 6 ]  lightning. 
 
"Thanks, everyone. What's the plan now?"
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  24 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating:  Haste (Bori)

 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  
  We need to get out of here!   Asha calls out, not liking their odds in this corridor,   Have we even touched Strahd? Nevermind, we'll talk later. I'll distract the elemental so you can get around it!   Asha vanishes and reappears on the other side of the elemental. He smashes his thunder gauntlet into it and then retreats to the corner, hoping to lure it into an attack, and waiting for his allies to clear the corridor before leaving.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 7 

  Bonus Action   - Starlight Step adjacent to Earth Elemental
  Action   - Attack Earth Elemental w/ Thunder Gauntlet
 Attack  -  (1d20+11)[ 27 ] 
 Damage  -  (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 
 Attack  -  (1d20+11)[ 14 ] 
 Damage  -  (1d8+7)[ 9 ] 
 Hit Effect  - If Asha hits the Earth Elemental, it has Disadvantage to hit anyone other than Asha until the start of Asha's next turn.
  Movement   - Move to corner, provoking an Opportunity Attack from the elemental.

If the elemental hits Asha with its Opportunity Attack, Asha will use Repulsion Shield as a Reaction to Push it back 15ft, placing it on the other side of Bori and Yikkol.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The halfling sat up, coughing. His throat  and chest burned on the inside. Yikkol was beginning to stand as well, maybe this exercise hadn't been a total waste of time. Those constructs were still glaring down at them though and he'd just be coughing his lungs up again if he stayed here.

The stones of the hallway erupted with tendrils trying to bind the foreign rock creature. As it writhed he once more darted between its legs, slashing with the glowing blade as he went past.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Stand up - 25ft movement
Action - Channel Divinity- Nature's Wrath DC 16 Strength save or restrained. Repeat at end of turns.
 (1d20)[ 4 ] 

Move through elemental - 25ft movement.
OA attack at disadvantage  (1d20)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20)[ 20 ] 

Haste bonus attack Attack  (1d20+11)[ 27 ]  for  (1d8+7)[ 12 ]  plus  (1d6)[ 6 ]  fire

If attacking at advantage then  (1d20+11)[ 23 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro again turned the corner, but this time attempted a necrotic cantrip, and this time against the Elemental which was clearly no longer under Yikkol's control (Zinro reasoned that it would likely resist his Fire Bolt). The Sunlight was affecting him again, but what else could he do? With his cantrip fired off, he returned around the corner and caught up with Herbert.

 
 Spoiler 
Step around the corner
Chill Touch on the Elemental. Ranged Spell Attack with Disadvantage for Sunlight:  (1d20+8)[ 12 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 24 ]  for  (2d8)[ 8 ]  Necrotic Damage (no pluses, this isn't an Evocation spell).
If the Elemental is hit, it cannot regain HP until the start of my next turn.
Move back around the corner and next to Herbert.
 
dangelo
The earth elemental raged on, suddenly aware that it didn't belong to this plane and couldn't go back to its homeland. One of these small creatures must have been responsible for the conjuration, for putting it in shackles like a slave, so the best option was to fight. Smash. Destroy. Earth elementals are creatures for extremes, and hardly change their course of action once their rock-solid brains are set on an objective. It was ready to fight to the death, until the enemies had grinded it to dust and sent its wounded soul back to the Plane of Earth, if necessary.

But something made it snap out of that rage. At the sight of Yikkol, the Earth Elemental halted. It hadn't been forced, enslaved or put in shackles. Unlike other conjurers who had summoned it in the past, this one had signed a contract and kept her word ever since. There was no reason to fight. The creature was at peace again.

After a moment of silence, the Elemental grunted a few words in High Terran and walked towards the middle of the staircase. There, it destroyed the wall with a few punches and revealed the rocky terrain underneath the castle, then  morphed into the underground soil and disappeared forever. It will wander the valley of Barovia for the remaining hour, until the spell finally wears off and it can travel back to the Plane of Earth.

 [SHUFFLE] 
 "The Beast... The Donjon... What next?"  Her bony fingers danced around the Tarokka deck, but the stopped herself:  "Not yet. It is too soon to draw another card." 

She watched the fellowship through the Mists of Destiny. Old as she was, Madam Eva had outlived most dinasties and even a few gods. Nowadays, she rarely ever meddled in the affairs of mortals.  "How will you deal with that, Crimson King?"  She asked. Her foggy eyes drank every drop of that epic crusade. Would it happen, finaly? Would this strange fellowship emerge victorious where so many others had failed? Heroes, mercenaries, elven masters, drawven knights, eccentric warriors from distant worlds - none of them had been able to destroy the Devil Strahd and free Barovia from his reign of terror.

 [SHUFFLE] 

A child was crying. The sound echoed through the halls of Castle Ravenloft, visiting the many carcasses and piles of bones the fellowship had left behind as they hacked and sliced and burned their way through Strahd's forces. A beam of moonlight struck the center of the old bedchamber, illuminating the woman in bright crimson, and the child she held dearly in her arms. Anastrasya wasn't her mother, but as Strahd's bride and steward, she found a place in her heart for poor Rue. The dhampir cried and cried, but her eyes remained wide open, fixated on the vampire's hypnotizing gaze. "Shh, don't cry, my love." Her voice sounded soft and lovely as a mother's embrace. "After tonight, you will have the eternal appreciation of your father. You shall be no less than his successor."

 [SHUFFLE] 

The Iron Knights never leave the Brazier Room. They stop attacking if you move out of their reach, but will remain blocking the door as long as they can notice anyone in the staircase.

Combat over.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Do we stay, or attempt to rest? I can conjure a shelter for us if we wish to remain in the castle."  
dangelo
Once the battle was definitely over, Pidlwick crawls out of his hideout and finds his place close to the group.

The faint sound of a child crying echoes through the castle.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  24 (Warding Bond)  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  Warding Bond (target, +1 saves/AC, Resistance to all Damage)
 Concentrating: 
 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Moments go by after the elemental smashes a hole in the ground and wanders off before Asha relaxes his stance. He looks around to the others as healing is administered.   Strahd is on the run. I don't know how much we hurt him, but barring running headlong into a trap, we may want to pursue. He's been going at us all day, and he's probably as bad off as we are.  
J-H
 Herbert 
 "Agreed.  Right now he's afraid.  He may not be thinking as clearly if we keep the pressure on."   Herbert clearly thinks the party should proceed to Strahd's coffin, as they'd discussed.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  
  "Does anyone else here the sound of a child mewling? Perhaps something to avoid?"  
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Bori coughs a large wad of black phlegm up . I don't suppose you have anything to help with this do you Yikkol?   He rasps thanks at the concoction he is handed.

 Pidlwick, do you have any idea what that noise is? Or know a quick way to get to Strahd's tomb? 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Yikkol healing  (1d6+14)[ 15 ] 
 
TaiLiu
If Pidlwick doesn't know any shortcuts, Yikkol will lead the way to the catacombs. It is a long circuitous route, and it takes about ten minutes before the party arrives.

The wailing child discomforts Yikkol and fills her with guilt. How long has it been since she'd seen her kids? She tries to block it out and hurries the party along.
dangelo
The fellowship backtracks cautiously through Rahadin's office, the Kingsmen Quarters and finally the Hall of Bones, heading to the Guards' Stairs in order to reach the Dinning Room and the Main Hall, where they'd gain access to the Chapel. In the Hall of Bones, however, Strahd's laughter filled the room once more. This time, however, his voice sounds more like a mad laughter than an actual evil vampire lord.

 Hall of Bones
Round One 
 "It is time for you to DIE!"  Strahd cries as he phases through the wall and attack Bori:

Claws:  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
Claws:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
(Adv from Surprise and Disadv from Sunlight)

Strahd phases through the floor again, triggering an Opportunity Attack from Bori.

Two Children of Strahd also come fluttering at Bori:

Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 

Claws:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 

Two arrows come flying from the darkness towards Asha:

Arrow:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Arrow:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 

(Two minutes have passed since you left the Brazier Room)
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert moves in whichever direction the party chooses, the holy symbol of Ravenkind held at the ready.  The moment Strahd comes into view, he will invoke its power to paralyze vampires.
 
 Spoiler 

Moved and updated map assuming we go south, provoked OA from rightmost Child.
Both Children should be in range of SG.
Readied action to use Icon of Ravenloft, to Hold Vampires.  Should hit Strahd and both Children but not the ranger.
 As an action, you can expend 1 charge and present the holy symbol to make it flare with holy power. Vampires and vampire spawn within 30 feet of the holy symbol when it flares must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, a target is paralyzed for 1 minute. It can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns to end the effect on itself.
 
In case it matters for Legendary Action triggering, I wanted to get the readied action up first thing.
 
TaiLiu
"Damn it! Your holiness, we need some way to lock him down. He's a slippery eel."

Yikkol fires at the vampiric monster directly across from Bori. The crossbow bolt gives her enough time to pull some smelling salts from her breast pocket.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] , directed at Bilbo. 
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 7 ]  plus  (5d6)[ 15 ]  magical piercing. Also  (1d6)[ 1 ]  lightning damage. 
 Cunning Action &amp; Healer to bring Bori back up to 1 hit point. 
 
"You all right, Bori? I think his holiness has a plan."

She moves up next to Herbert.


EDIT: 23 damage total.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  85/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  
  Hey, try picking on someone your own size!   Asha taunts as he punches the spawn in front of Bori.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Action   - Attack vs Bilbo
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 27 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 18 ] 
Damage -  (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
Hit Effect - Bilbo has DA to attack anyone other than Asha. Either overlaps with Icon or negated by Hall of Bones I think.
 
TaiLiu
Instead of the smelling salts thing, Yikkol hurls a vial of holy water at Bilbo. If Bilbo is down, she hurls it at Frodo.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] . 
 Damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ]  radiant. 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro moved to be protected by both Herbert and Yikkol and flung a bolt of fire at the children.   "I hope he has a plan!"   Zinro cried in response to Yikkol.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to be between Yikkol and Herbert.
Main Action to cast Fire Bolt (Cantrip) on Bilbo (or Frodo if Bilbo is down): Spell Attack  (1d20+8)[ 22 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 17 ]  Fire Damage.
 
Waistcoatwill
Bori

The halfling lashed out at the retreating form of Strahd with the blazing blade. With the coward gone, he turned towards the spawn in front of him. His blade lashed out, adding to the fulisade of attacks from Asha and Yikkol.

Panting, he circles round, attempting to dodge a reprisal from the second spawn.

Finally, standing over Strahd's last known location Bori called upon the power of the stones around him to bind demon should he dare return.

Opportunity attack against Strahd.
 (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 14 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire

Attack action vs Bilbo
Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 12 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire.
And
Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 16 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 12 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 2 ]  fire.

Move over to where Strahd disappeared.

Opportunity attack from Frodo
 (1d20)[ 14 ] 
dangelo
 Hall of Bones
Round Two 

Strahd uses the Hide action.  (1d20+12)[ 14 ] 

Bilbo and Frodo use the Disengage action and move south to block the doorway.

Archer Spawn shoots Bori twice:
 (1d20+6)[ 23 ]  for  (1d6+3)[ 7 ]  piercing and  (2d6)[ 7 ]  necrotic damage.
 (1d20+6)[ 22 ]  for  (1d6+3)[ 5 ]  piercing and  (2d6)[ 8 ]  necrotic damage.

The battle rages on until the fellowship hears the awfully familiar sound of Rue's roar. The effect of Bori's magic is gone now, and Strahd has regained control over her. She dashes into the room from the southern exit, leaping through the Children of Strahd, and attacks Bori with her claws.

Claws  (1d20+9)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 21 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 10 ]  slashing damage
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 13 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 10 ]  slashing damage
Claws  (1d20+9)[ 25 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  for  (1d6+7)[ 11 ]  slashing damage
(Reckless Attack)

Shadowy limbs emerge from the eastern wall and attacks Zinro. The fellowship has seen these limbs before - they belong to the Shadow Demon that served Rahadin, and barely escaped their encounter alive. It never actually enters the battlefield, only reaching to attack before retreating through the walls. His phasing powers are clearly different from Strahd's.

 (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  for  (4d6+3)[ 19 ]  psychic damage (Unseen attacker)
J-H
      
      Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 73/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: Spirit Guardians 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  

Herbert moves away from Rue.   "I'm sorry that this happened to you."  He speaks a word that sounds like warmth, light, and hope.  Everyone who is injured heals  (1d6+9)[ 12 ]  as he moves.  The priest steps just out of the hall of bones, into the hall.   "This way!"   He grips the holy symbol of Ravenkind, prepared to raise it if Strahd should show his face.
 
 Spoiler 

Move into the hall just south of Frodo, probably provoking an OA from Rue.
BA Mass Healing Word. Casting it also heals him an additional 5hp, so if Rue OAs him, he's probably going to heal right through her damage, although he may need to make a save to keep Spirit Guardians up.
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

With Zinro backed up against the wall, he was only aware of the Shadow Demons claws as they raked into him. He pushed himself away from the wall, yelping:   "The Shadow Demon is back, it's in the walls!"   Luckily, Herbert's words of healing closed up Zinro's wounds and he looked as good as new, ripped clothes and dried blood notwithstanding.

Zinro began moving after Herbert, side-stepping around the child of Strahd until he was next to Herbert. He raised the Mace towards the creature's face:   "FEAR ME!"   He bellowed as intimidatingly as he could, activating the Mace's properties.

 
 Spoiler 
Move next to Herbert.
Use an Action to use a Charge of the Mace of Terror to attempt to Frighten both 'Frodo' and Rue.

As per the item:
 This magic weapon has 3 charges. While holding it, you can use an action and expend 1 charge to release a wave of terror. Each creature of your choice in a 30-foot radius extending from you must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened of you for 1 minute. While it is frightened in this way, a creature must spend its turns trying to move as far away from you as it can, and it can't willingly move to a space within 30 feet of you. It also can't take reactions. For its action, it can use only the Dash action or try to escape from an effect that prevents it from moving. If it has nowhere it can move, the creature can use the Dodge action. At the end of each of its turns, a creature can repeat the saving throw, ending the effect on itself on a success. 

Frodo Will Save:  (1d20)[ 20 ] +mods OR  (1d20)[ 13 ] +mods (ignore if no adv/dis)
Rue Will Save:  (1d20)[ 17 ] +mods OR  (1d20)[ 17 ] +mods (ignore if no adv/dis)
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

Head swimming, Bori rises to his feet and scrambles after the rest of the team. He can barely keep himself from vomiting, let alone speak, so strong the horror of his near death is in this terrible place.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Half move to stand. Dash action. Get out of dodge.
 
TaiLiu
"With you all the way, your holiness."

Yikkol fires at Frodo and rushes after Herbert into the hall below.

 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ]  
 Damage:  (1d10+5)[ 14 ]  and  (5d6)[ 18 ]  magical piercing. Also,  (1d6)[ 1 ]  lightning. 
 Cunning Action (Disengage) and move 30 feet. 
 

EDIT: 33 damage total.
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  3/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha makes his way around Rue and posts himself at the door to block her from following. He engages with the spawn behind Herbert.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 
  Move   - Move to doorway without provoking from Rue.
  Action   - Attack Frodo
 Attack  -  (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
 Damage  -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 
 Attack  -  (1d20+11)[ 29 ] 
 Damage  -   Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 8 ] 
  Hit Effect   - Frodo has Disadvantage to hit anyone other than Asha
 
dangelo
[SHUFFLE]

"Why, this wasn't quite the end of the tale." Madam Eva tried to remember. She was old as she was wise, and her mind sometimes played tricks on her. "The battle wasn't over just yet, no it wasn't. There was something else."

A circle had gathered around to hear the story: Five individuals dragged from their homelands and trapped in Barovia, and their only lead on how to escape was this old storyteller. The rogue raised his voice, impatient: "This woman has turned crone. Leave her be. Let us follow this..." He squinted to read a sign by the trees. " Svalich Road.  There ought to be a village nearby."

The other adventurers paid him no mind. "What happened next, Madam Eva?" They asked. "Any information on the master of this Domain of Dread will be useful to us."

"Lord Strahd had had enough of these heroes." She resumed. "The Paladin had retrieved his brother's sword, a weapon he'd had destroyed by the most powerful magicians in his court. The Cleric had the Icon of Ravenloft, and they carried the Ruby of Ravenkind, a treasure that preceds even Strahd in these cursed lands. Four hundred years ago, the ravens rules the valley. The Vistani were here to see, believe my words."

"Please, Madam, proceed with the story." The knight in shiny armor insisted. But when Madam Eva looked at him, she was stricken with visions of his dark future.

 "You!  You were there! Sir Theodore is your name, is it not?"

The knight nodded. "How could I be in the story, my lady? I never even set foot in these lands."

Madam Eva shook her head. "Time flows strangely in Barovia. It is possible to hear stories about the future. Oh, poor knight, I pity you. March on, for the fate of your crusade has been written in stone."

"I don't believe your words." Sir Theodore gave her a smile, one that shone like the sun in the dark valley of Barovia. "There are others who wait for me, who need me, there on the other side of these Mists. I will return to them no matter what, and if slaying this vampire lord is the only way, so be it."

His courage rubbed off on his companions, but Madam Eva gave only a sad look. She reached for her tarokka deck, for her memory failed her on what happened next. "Where did they go afterwards?" She shuffled, shuffled, shuffled, and drew a card. "Ah. I remember now. See, the Rogue was a trickster of sorts, and carried with her special elemental stones. Her summoned minions had served as spies, and told her the exact location of Lord Strahd's coffin. A vampire's coffin is a place of power, see, and it must be located in the same ground that vampire once lived. If a vampire lord must travel, they must take some of the soil with them, and keep their coffin surrounded by it."

Sir Theodore and his party drank the words, assimilating any piece of information that might help them defeat Strahd. If Madam Eva was correct and they hadn't been the first batch of adventurers to assault Castle Ravenloft and die by the hands of the Devil, their expedition would be no easy task.

"What of the others? The Red Bride, the Dhampir?" Asked one of the adventurers. He had a quiver full of arrows slung across his shoulder.

Madam Eva squeezed the details out of her mind. "This was Lord Strahd's final movement. There was no time to protect his retainers." She explained. "See, the Mists are older than your gods, as old as the world itself. Their powers mean nothing here. But that night, somehow, the golden rays of Pelor sipped through the clouds and a beam of sunlight shone on Castle Ravenloft. Lord Strahd had retreated to his coffin, but his fate had been sealed by chains of pure light. Sun would shine through the Mists, and life would return to this Domain of Dread."

A smirk touched her face. "But then again, how would you be standing here if they had succeeded?"

* * *

This time it wasn't Strahd's laughter that died away, but a cry of pain. The Shadow Demon was destroyed by Asha, and the Red Bride turned to dust by Bori's sword. The Ranger, a long way from them, took a bolt from Yikkol's crossbow right between the eyes, and finally the last of Sir Theo's party was ashed.

The Hall of Bones fell silent. The entire castle fell silent. Immediately they resumed their march to the catacombs below.
J-H
 Herbert 

Herbert and Asha look at each other, then bend to grab the portcullis, lifting it upwards with a grunt on Herbert's part.
TaiLiu
As soon as the portcullis is lifted, Yikkol will scan the area for any traps or hidden dangers.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was tired. This was the most energy he had expended on a task for decades, perhaps even in forever. His mood was sour and his outlook dark, but he wasn't about to just give up. As the others moved to raise the portcullis, Zinro readied a bolt of fire, as usual, to hurl at whatever dark forces assailed them.
dangelo
Pieces of the slate floor shattered as hands and arms and heads burst through, climbing their way out of the ground. A total of fifteen malformed zombies attacked, eyes gouged out, jaws missing, pieces of rotten flesh clinging to the bones

Herbert
Initiative:  (1d20)[ 7 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 

Yikkol
Initiative:  (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 

Zinro
Initiative:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 

Bori
Initiative:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
Perception:  (1d20+5)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+5)[ 25 ]  (Sentinel Shield)

Asha
Initiative:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ]  or  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Perception  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
dangelo
Strahd's laughter echoes from the other side of the porticullis. The fellowship is light on their feet, though, and manages to go first.

You won initative, but Herbert, Zinro and Asha are surprised and can't do anything. Yikkol and Bori go next.

The porticullis is still closed.

 
 Spoiler: map 
 
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol throws her crossbow back over her back and scrambles up one of the columns. With her free hand, she pulls out her blowgun and fires a dart at the ghoul adjacent to Herbert.

 
 Disengage up onto the column, away from a ghoul’s possible opportunity attack. 
 Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ] . 
 Damage:  (5d6+1)[ 22 ]  magical piercing. 
 
“He’s trying to slow us down! We’ve got to smash his coffin before he overwhelms us.”
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  2/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha reacts immediately as the undead burst through the floor to surround them. His hands come up, palms out, and a pulse of sonic energy blasts over the creatures, pushing them back. He then retreats back a step to protect Zinro from attack on his left flank.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 
  Action   - Thunderwave vs 4 Wights in front of Asha
Con Save DC 17 or take   Thunder  - (2d8)[ 13 ]  damage and be pushed back 10ft. Take half damage and no push on successful save.
Lower Right Wight -  (1d20)[ 9 ]  + con
Lower Left Wight -  (1d20)[ 19 ]  + con
Upper Left Wight -  (1d20)[ 8 ]  + con
Upper Right Wight -  (1d20)[ 20 ]  + con
  Move   - Move adjacent to Zinro
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
  More mabar spawn, by Dol Arrah I'll burn you all from this place  !

Bori grabs a Ruby from his helm and the fury of the Sovereign of Sun and Sacrifice leaps up to burn the wights.

A 60ft long line of fire facing outwards leaps up around the group. Bori steps up to try and hem in thr larger group to the north from piling through the wall.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 

DC 17 for  (5d8)[ 30 ]  fire damage, half on a success.

4 in the middle of the northern group, clockwise from top left
 (1d20)[ 1 ] 
 (1d20)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20)[ 16 ] 
 (1d20)[ 1 ] 

3 from the group Asha scattered, going left to right
 (1d20)[ 18 ] 
 (1d20)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20)[ 17 ] 

Group mext to Herbert, going clockwisefrom top left
 (1d20)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20)[ 8 ] .
 
dangelo
The zombies hiss and snarl as the wall of flames lick their rotten flesh, and the smell of burning meat fills the room. It produces a thick smoke of pure evil. Strahd's voice echoes again, commanding his remaining servants:  "Destroy the Priest! He bears the Bright Light!" 

All wights on each side retreat from the wall of fire and draw their longbows. They have disadvantage due to the Icon of Ravenloft.

[Right group]

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 18 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 

[Left group]

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 15 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 11 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 

2 arrows on Herbert
 (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 

Two particularly brave wights leap through the wall of fire (they had already taken the damage so they don't take it again) and attack Zinro. They have disadvantage due to the Icon of Ravenloft -and- Sunlight Sensibility

Life Drain on Bori
 (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  for  (1d6+2)[ 7 ]  (necrotic) (Con save DC 13 if it hits  (1d20)[ 2 ] )
Longsword on Zinro
 (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d10+2)[ 4 ] 

Life Drain on Zinro
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d6+2)[ 6 ]  (necrotic) (Con save DC 13 if it hits  (1d20)[ 17 ] )
Longsword on Zinro
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  for  (1d10+2)[ 6 ] 

Two wights retreat from the wall of fire and Ready their actions.

-

At the same time, Strahd himself phases through the porticullis and rakes at Herbert with claws and teeth. He knew better than to show himself to the priest, as he had almost been trapped by his magic several times at this point, but the vampire lord trusted the surprise effect. At least for now.

He has advantage due to surprise attack, but disadvantage due to the Icon of Ravenloft

 (1d20+9)[ 17 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  slashing plus  (4d6)[ 11 ]  necrotic damage
 (1d20+9)[ 27 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 10 ]  slashing plus  (4d6)[ 12 ]  necrotic damage
 (1d20+9)[ 13 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 8 ]  slashing plus  (4d6)[ 12 ]  necrotic damage

After attacking, he phases into one of the crypts.
J-H
      
   <span style="font-family: Century

Gothic">  Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 49/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
Herbert takes minor wounds from two arrows, and a much harder blow from Strahd's claws that tears his flesh open...but he endures.  As Strahd moves away, Herbert strikes with his mace, then follows the Count around the flames, preparing to brandish the Holy Symbol of Ravenkind.
 
 Spoiler 

OA
Mace +1  (1d20+8)[ 16 ]  for  (1d6+4)[ 10 ]  magic bludgeoning plus  (1d8)[ 1 ]  radiant from Blessed Strikes.

Moved 15' .

Readied action to use Hold Vampires.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  2/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Strahd is beside them in an instant to attack Herbert and retreat, but Asha is able to strike back.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 1 Opportunity Attack 
Reaction - Opportunity Attack vs Strahd
Attack -  (1d20+11)[ 23 ] 
  Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
 
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro was having a hard time being able to see, due to the Sunlight spilling forth from his allies, but that same Sunlight was helping to keep the Wights at bay. Rather than attempting a futile attack at the nearest Wights, Zinro instead carefully Disengaged himself from the melee and moved to be beside Herbert, whilst also keeping access to the portcullis open.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action Disengage
Move to be beside Herbert
 
TaiLiu
Yikkol watches in horror as Strahd focuses all his effort on Herbert. She couldn't let a holy man die on her watch. Yikkol drops her blowgun back into her sleeve, leaps down from the column, and sets herself next to his holiness. She gulps a potion down and then pulls out her crossbow.

If Strahd wanted to attack Herbert, he would have to go through her.

 
 Move up to 30 feet next to Herbert. 
 Item interaction and Action to draw and drink Potion of Healing. She recovers  (2d4+2)[ 7 ]  hit points. 
 Cunning Action to draw her crossbow. 
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

The halfling lashes out at the two Wights that braved the fire, the light from his blade eclipsing the glow from the inferno they had passed through.

If the top foe dies the halfing rolls through the legs of his remaining foe to get between it and his allies.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Initially attacking the one to the North nect to Bori, switching to the other one if it goes down.

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 12 ]  (28 on re-roll from halfling luck) for  (2d8+7)[ 14 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 3 ]  fire.

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 12 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 4 ]  fire.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  2/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  2/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha fights alongside Bori to finish off the wights within the wall of fire. He then moves toward Zinro to protect him from arrow attacks.

 
 Spoiler: Turn 2 

  Movement   - If Wight 30 is alive, move up 1 square to attack Wight 30. If Wight 30 is dead, stay in place.
  Action   - Attack Wight 30 (or Wight 15 if 30 is dead)
[roll=Attack 1]1d20+11[roll]  21  rolled in OOC
  Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
[roll=Extra Attack]1d20+11[roll]  22  rolled in OOC
  Thunder  - (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
  Movement   - Move to same row as Zinro to provide cover to Zinro from Wight arrow attacks.
 
dangelo
Will save against Hold Vampires  (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
dangelo
Bori and Ziro manage to kill two Wights.

Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range 150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.

[West group]
2 Longbow attacks on Herbert with disadvantage (Icon of Ravenloft)
1.
 (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 15 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 20 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
2.
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 5 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
3.
 (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
4.
 (1d20+4)[ 20 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 
5.
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 19 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 

[East group]
2 Longbow attacks on Herbert with disadvantage (Icon of Ravenloft)
1.
 (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 10 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
2.
 (1d20+4)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 18 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 19 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 18 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
3.
 (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 12 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 
4.
 (1d20+4)[ 24 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
5.
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 14 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
6.
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 22 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 20 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
7.
 (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 11 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 22 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 


[North group]
2 Longbow attacks on Herbert with disadvantage (Icon of Ravenloft)
1.
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 6 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ]  or  (1d20+4)[ 8 ]  for  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 

Strahd phases back to the fight, casting his claws at Herbert. The Amulet of Ravenkind gleams with sunlight, but once again the Mists get in Herbert's way and his spell fails to work properly. Strahd was already laughing again, and raking the priest of Pelor with savage hatred in his eyes...

3 Claw attacks on Herbert with disadvantage (Icon of Ravenloft)
 (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 12 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 7 ]  slashing plus  (4d6)[ 16 ]  necrotic damage
 (1d20+9)[ 27 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 17 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 6 ]  slashing plus  (4d6)[ 11 ]  necrotic damage
 (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 24 ]  for  (1d8+4)[ 6 ]  slashing plus  (4d6)[ 16 ]  necrotic damage

...when high in the sky the clouds parted to let a beam of sunlight through. The light of Pelor shone bright in Barovia, illuminating Castle Ranveloft and the valley below for the first time in over three hundred years. Peasants rushed out of their houses, creatures of the night ran away in fear.

The sunlight burst through the mountainside and into the catacombs - Anyone could have thought it was another of Strahd's fireballs. It shone bright on the vampire lord, and every soul in Barovia heard the voice of Pelor when he said  "This is where it ends, fiend." 

Strahd can't leave his square (Divine Intervention)
J-H
      
   <span style="font-family: Century

Gothic">  Herbert Raycraft    
 Human Life Cleric 
 AC: 20 HP: 20/73 
 PPer: 18 PInv: 10 PIst: 18  
 Conditions: -- 
 Concentrating: -- 
 Aura:  30' Prot from Evil (Fiends/undead): Such creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls

against us, and we are immune to charm, fear, possession by them  
 
  
Shot, clawed, and leaking no doubt delicious blood, Herbert brandishes the Holy Symbol of Ravenkind once more.   "By the power of Pelor, RECEIVE YOUR PAST - DUE JUDGEMENT!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Expending 3 charges (2 now remain) and my last Channel Divinity.  Strahd must make a DC 15 Wisdom save at disadvantage, or be paralyzed for 1 minute.
 (1d20)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20)[ 2 ] 
 
J-H
Herbert summons a glowing mace of Pelor behind Strahd to bash him.
 
 Spoiler 

Spiritual weapon, with advantage
 (1d20+8)[ 24 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 16 ] 
Damage  (1d8+4)[ 5 ]  force damage
Crit bonus  (1d8)[ 7 ] +4? Don't remember how we're handling crits.
 If it's max + roll then 12+11=23 
 
TaiLiu
It was time. The Fates, in a booming and oddly masculine voice, had decreed it. Death to Strahd at last!

Yikkol draws her sword and thrusts it into Strahd's dead flesh with great pleasure. She follows her attack by smashing a bottle of extra-powerful holy water at the vampire's feet.

 
 Attack with Advantage:  (1d20+9)[ 10 ]  or  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] . 
 Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 11 ]  plus 8 magical piercing. Along with  (5d6)[ 19 ]  plus 30 sneak attack damage. 
 Cunning Action (Attack):  (1d20+4)[ 16 ] . 
 Damage: Unknown, since the damage of this holy water has never been discussed. 
 

EDIT: 68 magical piercing damage. Plus whatever damage the +magical holy water does. 😈
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

The intense sunlight was pain, but it was pain that let Zinro know he was still alive. In the dazzling light, Zinro squinted to mark out his foe - the Lord of this castle. He spoke the arcane words to throw another Bolt of Fire at it.

 
 Spoiler 
Main Action to cast Fire Bolt Cantrip at Strahd, disadvantage due to direct sunlight:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ]  or  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  for  (2d10+4)[ 18 ]  Fire Damage.
 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  
 Give in, Devil, let yourself burn! The spirits of this land deserve peace at long last. 

Light streams from the blade of his brother as it surges towards Strahd. Bori feels a strong will lend its strength to his as Sergei's righteous anger fills him, finally able to struke at his brother.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Using a level 3 skot for a smite on the first hit then a level 1 on the second, leaving him with one level 2 slot left.

Level 3 Smite  (5d8)[ 19 ]  radiant plus 40 (59 total). Level 1 smite  (3d8)[ 15 ]  plus 24 (39 total).

Attack 1  (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  (22 on advantage roll) for  (2d8+7)[ 16 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 2 ]  fire. Plus 16 radiant and 6 fire for a total of 40 damage.

Attack 2  (1d20+11)[ 28 ]  for  (2d8+7)[ 15 ]  radiant plus  (1d6)[ 1 ]  fire plus 16 radiant and 6 fire for a total of 38 damage.
 
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  2/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  1/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Herbert calls upon his god of light and Strahd is paralyzed in place. The moment is now! The group falls upon the vampire to finish him off, Bori smiting the villain with the Lightbringer that would have killed any other foe. Asha blinks out of existence and reappears to flank Strahd,   Your reign of terror is over Strahd!  
 
 Spoiler: Turn 3 

  Bonus Action   - Starlight Step to flank Strahd.
  Action   - Attack Strahd w/Advantage (Strahd is paralyzed)
  Attack  - (1d20+11)[ 12 ] ,   Advantage  - (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
  Thunder  - (1d8+15)[ 16 ]  (crit damage included)
  Extra Attack  - (1d20+11)[ 28 ] ,   Advantage  - (1d20+11)[ 20 ] 
  Thunder  - (1d8+15)[ 20 ]  (crit damage included)
 
dangelo
For once the devil Strahd didn't laugh. His fate had been sealed when Pelor intervened, and from then on it would be just a matter of time until the fellowship hacked him to pieces. Between bolts and cuts and punches and magic spells, the vampire lord could do nothing to escape.

 "YOU MAY KILL ME, THAT YOU MAY,"  He cried, and the entire castle cried with him. Even as his body was destroyed, the grey stones of Castle Ravenloft carried his curses.  "TURN ME TO ASH. MAKE A TROPHY OUT OF ME." 

Yikkol landed a shot on his leg, and the devil went to one knee.  "TAKE AWAY MY KINGDOM, MY TREASURE, MY CASTLE, MY CROWN,"  Asha hit him in the face, his fist flying like a hammer in an uppercut that threw Strahd off his feet. "TAKE EVERYTHING, AND CALL YOURSELVES HEROES. CHAMPIONS. HAVE SONGS AND LEGENDS TOLD ABOUT YOUR DEEDS."  Before Strahd could hit the ground, Bori's sunsword shone bright and cut him in half. His body collapsed into ashes. But still the castle bellowed.  "BUT ALAS, I AM NOT THE EVIL YOU SEEK TO DESTROY. I AM MERELY A BAD OMEN." 

The catacombs rumbled. The ground shook underfoot, the ceiling overhead. Both mountain and castle faced a huge earthquake.  "FINISH YOUR MISSION, THEN. CONCLUDE YOUR CRUSADE, AND GO TELL YOUR LOVED ONES I WAS DEFEATED. YOU HAVE SURVIVED ME. BUT EVIL LIVES ON. EVIL THRIVES."  All around them, swarms of bats flew desperately through the hole made by Pelor, choosing to face sunlight rather than the collapsing castle.  "YOU MAY NEVER TRULY WIN, HEROES. FOR BAROVIA WAS NEVER THE HOUSE OF EVIL." 

The fellowship rushed through the porticullis, the Tome of Strahd ready to be burned on the vampire lord's coffin.

 "DARKNESS LIVES IN THE HEARTS OF MEN. EVERY FATHER, MOTHER AND CHILD. EVERY ELF, DWARF AND ORC. EVERY PEASANT, EVERY PRIEST, EVERY KNIGHT, EVERY KING AND EVERY BEGGAR. THERE WILL COME A DAY WHERE YOU WILL FEEL IT IN YOUR HEARTS. STIRRING. BUBBLING. INCONTROLLABLE RAGE, ENVY, GREED, LUST, AND YOU SHALL CHOOSE TO BE STRONG, EMBRACE IT, TRANSCEND YOUR EXISTENCE AS I HAVE DONE... OR GIVE UP AND DIE LIKE THE SCUM YOU ARE. YOU MAY KILL ME, BUT EVIL LIVES ON IN YOUR HEARTS, AND WITH THEM THE DARK POWERS THAT RULE THE WORLD." 

When the book was set ablaze and placed on top of the coffin, Strahd's voice shifted into a gutural roar, speaking in ancient languages long forgotten by the people of this world. The sun shone bright, so bright it was hard to see. Huge chunks of bedrock collapsed from the ceiling.

And then, nothing.


[SHUFFLE]


"Thank you, children." A tear ran down her old cheek. Instead of her mad cackling, Madam Eva now spoke in a soothing, sweet voice. "I have lived long enough to see empires rise and fall, yet I never thought I would see the Valley of Barovia free from this monster."

"I am Madam Eva, but I was born  Katarina  of the Zarovan tribe. In one of the many wars waged by the great King Barov, my mother warmed his bed throughout his campaign, and by the time he rode off with his knights, she was had a child growing in her belly. Who would have thought that his son was to cause so much destruction? That only blood of his blood would be able to break the curse? Sergei was supposed to be the hero, but Strahd murdered him when he gave himself to the Dark Powers. How could I accomplish at what he failed? Me, a simple fortuneteller, the bastard of a king and a whore?" She offered a gentle smile. "I don't care about your motivations - nothing can be worse than Strahd von Zarovich. I thank you, my champions, for relieving me of this duty after three hundred years of struggle."


[SHUFFLE]


Only the foundations of Castle Ravenloft survived the earthquake, leaving the main floor exposed under the blue sky. The great hall that once lead to the chapel was now bathed in sunlight. A single summer flower dared to blossom through the cracked tiled floor.

The fellowship climbed out of the debris, including Pidlwick. Staggering to their feet, they managed to walk up to the edge of the cliff and glimpse the valley under a whole new light: The field were dry and dead, but would thrive once again under the sun. The Svalich Woods was painted green, the Ivlis slithered about the land like a silvery ribbon. Hundreds of feet below, the smallfolk cheered in the streets of the Village of Barovia. Their chanting could almost be heard all the way from the castle.

And the Mists had been lifted. Beyond the woods and mountains and hills, other provinces and kingdoms could be seen, stretching into horizon and disappearing in the distance. Roads, cities, inns, castles, bridges. People. Barovia had been returned to the world and its natural order.

The portable tower in Strahd's treasury survived the destruction, even after collapsing from the third floor. Pidlwick was poking at it when four magic portals appeared right in the center of what once had been the Morninglord Chapel. Through one of them it was possible to see the interior of an alien ship that Asha would recognize as his own. Through another, the infinite Talenta plains, where mounted halflings crossed the land in the distance. The third showed the Great Cathedral of Pelor, and fourth, the interior of Yikkol's bedroom. There wasn't a portal for Zinro.

Pidlwick was the one to break the silence, tugging at Yikkol's bloodstained trousers and asking in his weird mechanical child voice.  "What do we do now?" 
TaiLiu
For decades she had dreamt of this moment. The death of Strahd and her victory. Her years of struggle vindicated. But Yikkol did not expect to feel so empty or so hopeless. Now that she had achieved what she set out to, she had nothing to return to but the shambles of the life she had left behind.

Through the portals at the top of the tower, between alien worlds and more familiar ones, Yikkol saw what was once home. Long ago, the bedroom in the guild hall was hers, but now it was cluttered with unfamiliar objects. The Makers' Guild must have given the room to someone else. Her family must be elsewhere. She had to find them.

Pidlwick breaks her hopeless reverie:  "What do we do now?"  She smiles down at him and then at her companions. Soon they would be a distant memory.

"We should go home. Back to our families and our children—if they will take us, after our long absence. I wish I had Strahd's skull to take home. But I have the skull of my mother's murderer, and that is enough.

"I wish all of you could see my homeland. The temples laden with gold and jade. The royal rivers. The trees and the mountains and the Salt Sea. But I suppose you must return home, too.

"Your Holiness, to your Church. I am sure your world will benefit from your guidance as we have in this one. Bori, to the windswept plains of your world, where you will once again see your dinosaur companion. Asha, to your"—here she wrinkles her nose in confusion—"strange metal ship amongst the stars. And I suppose you will stay here, Zinro, and take what is left of this castle."

She holds out a hand for Pidlwick to take.

"Pidlwick, I would be honored if you would come with me and see the land that your maker—our mom—was born. The Guild will be thrilled to see you. And perhaps... Perhaps we can see my partner and my children, if they will forgive me.

"Good-bye, friends. May the Fates guide you to new victories and quiet lives."

She walks through the portal, which shimmers and then fades. It is the last the party sees of Yikkol Four-Eyes.
The Commander
  Lord Zinro Varanash  

Zinro coughed and heaved himself out of the debris. He once again had to shield his eyes as the natural sunlight that had seemed so alien to Barovia washed over them. He looked down at his clothes, dirty and ruined. Almost flippantly, he cleaned and mended them quietly with magic - if the peasants wanted to come and praise their saviours it would do well for him to look as regal as possible.

Taking in the true destruction around them he let out a very audible sigh.   "I suppose it was too much to hope that the castle would survive intact."   He sounded genuinely disappointed, but there was a hint of relief that the party had triumphed too.

  "Yes, I shall do what I can to rebuild this castle and become a lord for these people. They will need protection and direction in the months to come, and then stability in the months that follow that."   He looked uneasy for a moment and then said:   "Thank you for your assistance in our trials here. Know that you will always be welcome here, should you wish to visit; although I regret it may be some months before I can offer you any decent hospitality."  

He embraced any party members that wish to embrace him and wished everyone farewell.

After they had all left (assuming they do) he headed back to the ruin of the castle proper, and found that the first of many inquisitive peasants had begun to investigate the devastation. He cleared his throat and stood atop a prominent piece of debris:   "People of Barovia!"   He cried.  "Strahd von Zarovich is dead!"  He waited for the cheers to die down at this news.   "Yes, the vampire lord is naught but dust and his castle... well, you can see it now lies in ruins. Thanks to myself and my staunch allies, you will no longer have to fear him! Celebrate! Spread the news of this great victory! But we must not grow too complacent! With the lord of this realm gone, it is vulnerable to predations by others. We must work together to ensure this land is strong and it's people live long. Under my leadership, this land will be prosperous once again! Under my leadership, this land will be protected! Under my leadership, this land will have a future to be proud of!"   He once again allowed the cheers and jubilations of the peasants to echo from the stones of the ruined castle.

  "I am Lord Zinro Varanash, of House Varanash, Menzoberranzan..."   For the first time in his life, Zinro spoke these repetitious words with great pride.   "Your new Count!"  
Dr.Samurai
      
     Asha    
   Astral Elf Armorer Artificer 10 
 AC:  23  | HP:  103/103  | THP:  0/10  | Initiative:  +2
 Str:  +1  | Dex:  +2  | Con:  +7  | Int:  +9  | Wis:  +2  | Cha:  -1
 PPer:  16  | PInv:  19  | PIns:  12
 Spell Slots:   1st:  2/4  | 2nd:  0/3  | 3rd:  0/2
 Flash of Genius:  3/5
 Active Effects:  Breathe any Environ, Adv vs Harmful Gases/Vapors
 Conditions:  --
 Concentrating:  --

 Starlight Step:  1/4
 Repulsion Shield:  4/4
 Spell-Refueling Ring:  0/1
 Defensive Field:  0/4 
  
 
  

Asha watches in awe as the castle crumbles down before them, an indisputable manifestation of Strahd's death and defeat. He looks at the people gathering, and at his brave comrades. After a century of mercenary work, he has recaptured that feeling of fighting for what's right, and braving dangers to make the worlds a better place. Today they took down a villain and a tyrant, and Asha has a sense that he will continue to do so, wherever he goes. He embraces his new friends, a fire in his eyes that hadn't been there when they first met.

To Yikkol he says,   I am glad that you were able to find some closure for you and your mother and your clan, and to gain justice for her as well. Zinro, I trust you will be a fine steward of these lands and for the people of Barovia. Bori and Herbert, may your courage and faith continue to be a guiding light and protect those around you.

Should any of you ever find yourselves among the stars, seek me out. Until then, many blessings to you all friends!   With that Asha steps into the portal to find his way back to wildspace.
J-H
As the castle collapses, Herbert expends almost the last of his magical resources to heal everyone (Mass Cure Wounds).  Afterwards, he looks on with gladness.  It's a brand new day for Barovia.  Unlike his last encounter with the masses of undead, this one has ended reasonably well.

He went on a journey, and found something - closure, success, meaningfulness.  It may not have been what he was looking for, but it was what he needed (along with a bath, healing, and some rest).  But before he enters the temple of Pelor, he looks at his companions.  It has been a short time, and yet also long and dark.

 "Before we each go our own way... should we exchange tokens?  Pelor may soon grant me the ability to travel between planes.  We may be able to meet again under better circumstances." 
Waistcoatwill
  Bori  

As the castle crumbles around them a huge surge of relief and joy surge through Bori. The constant crushing dread and despair had come close to breaking him at several points. Now that it was lifted his mood rebounded, he was half giddy and hugged his compatriots tightly.

He let the glow fade from Sergei's blade and reached out to the spirit within.   What now, do you get to rest? I still have things to set right at home. If you still wish tonstay with me I'd be honoured to have you.   A hiss of agreement from his mask.


He looks to his actually corporeal companions.  Thank you all so much, it has difficult and draining but we managed it. I had almost lost hope that we could succeed, but we pulled together and did the impossible. 
 I have to go home to  lay the souls of my tribe to rest in a land oddly similar to this. Maybe I'll find new companions and banish our mists the way we've done here! There is always hope it seems, no matter the difficulties! I wish you all the best of luck and favour from the spirits. 

He removes a small decoration from his jacket that signifies his clan and hands it to Herbert.   I would be delighted to see you all again, if Herbert can manage it. Although I dread to think what terrible events would have to happen to draw us back together again! 
TaiLiu
 
 Originally Posted by J-H 
  "Before we each go our own way... should we exchange tokens?  Pelor may soon grant me the ability to travel between planes.  We may be able to meet again under better circumstances."  
 

"Of course, your holiness."

Yikkol unslings her heavy crossbow and hands it to Herbert. Her adventuring days were over. She didn't need it anymore.
dangelo
Days stretched into weeks, and weeks into months. Summer came spilling over the Valley, orchards grew gold and green, the Svalich Woods teemed with game, and not a single shadow loomed besides the ones in the dim-lit halls of Castle Varanash.

Merchants, travelers and outlaws wandered to Barovia once the Mist was lifted. In addition to managing resources, collecting taxes, and holding court in his castle, Lord Zinro had to defend the land against criminals, rival monarchs and other warring factions who claimed the Valley was part of their territory; Barovia had disappeared for 300 years, and had been mostly forgotten on this side of the Mist. Nobles from Menzoberranzan sprouted left and right to offer their swords in vassalage and swear fealty to Lord Zinro, and soon there was a whole ecosystem of intrigue at play in Barovia.

When Herbert stepped through the portal, he brought the Church of Pelor two legendary treasures: the Icon of Ravenloft and the Amulet of Ravenkind. With these two items, His Holiness joined the highest ranking paladins of the order in dangerous expeditions into haunted cathedrals and necromancy temples and domains of dread, retrieving more and more lost relics. It was a golden age for the order, and soon Herbert was raised to Archpriest.

Bori returned to Talenta Plains with the Sunsword in his belt and the Helm of Brilliance on his head. The powerful soul of Sergei von Zarovich continued to live in the blade, lending Bori his power and mentoring him through their telepathic bond. Bori and Nethis hunted down creatures of the night, cursed artifacts, necromancers and other evil magicians, riding all over the Plains with the Sunsword raised above his head.

Asha found his ship empty, crashed and abandoned in a fiery asteroid at the edge of Deadspace. His crew had scattered after their encounter with the Mist, and it took him months to scan planets and planes to re-recruit them all. The heavy plates from Sergei's armor that hadn't fit Bori served as base for Asha to improve his bionoid armor even further, and soon enough he was back in action, fighting for freedom across the sea of stars.

 "Time flows in strange ways in Barovia. Death isn't the end, and it is possible to hear stories from the future."  Wasn't that what Madam Eva had said? Whether that was true or false, her world seemed to have  moved on  during her absence. Decades had gone by. Yikkol found her household empty, the walls taken by ivy, her hometown razed by war. The world had moved on, but with the knowledge left by her mother inside Pidlwick, Yikkol managed to not only rebuild the Guild, but to train new inventors and bring the people back to her province. Her family was never to be seen again in those parts, but she knew her children walked the earth with her mother's power in their veins, and possibly their children too, if it truly had been decades since the Mist snatched her to Barovia.


[SHUFFLE]


"Why, t'wasn't quite the end of it..." Madam Eva cackled, her voice breaking madly. "I don't seem to remember!"

"Leave her." Insisted the Ranger. "The woman has gone mad."

Sir Theo was adamant. "She is a  Vistana  of the Zarovan tribe. Only the ravens know this valley better than them, and I can't talk to ravens. Madam Eva, please go on."

"Oy, yes, I remember now." She went on. "There was peace in Barovia, yes there was, but for a while. You see, Lord Strahd isn't a common vampire... He wasn't bitten and turned by another. Instead, he forged a contract with the Dark Powers, o, that he did, that he really did."

"The  Dark Powers ?" Sir Theo asked.

"The Dark Powers, aye, who rule the Domains of Dread. The reason why you shall never defeat Lord Strahd. The power behind his immortality. The Devil is one with Barovia and Barovia is one with the Devil."

"And then? What happened then?" Urged the Ranger.

"Then..." Madam Eva laughed. "There was darkness."


[SHUFFLE]


The Valley of Barovia enjoyed a quiet summer day when suddenly lightning cracked, thunders roared, and the skies turned blood-red. Black smoke billowed from the woods ablaze, accumulating into a thick mass. Columns of undead knights marched into the fields, spreading death and destruction. Flying demons and gargoyles left a trail of blood in the streets of the village. Swarms of bats blackened the sky. Wolves howled in the distance. Blights flooded the woods. Everywhere there were creatures of the night, plague, death and war. Ahead of the undead forces was Rahadin, and leading from the rear, Strahd von Zarovich himself, reborn, riding his fiery Nightmare and swinging his sword in the air. His four brides flew across his sky, but his true favorite was Rue.

She lead the invasion and stormed the gates of Castle Varanash, bursting them open with her bare claws. Undead soldiers flooded the Great Hall, and Zinro's elven guard received them with the points of their blades. Once again the Mists surrounded Barovia, and Strahd's laughter echoed though the land.

The Mist snatched Herbert, Bori, Asha, Yikkol and Zinro, chew them, and spit them at the edge of the valley. There, the Svalich Road took a turn to the left and they glimpsed the cursed valley and the dark castle in the distance, looming over Barovia and its lost souls. They looked at each other, but their memories didn't seem to come back. Only a distant feeling of familiarity united them.

Up ahead, a Vistani caravan emerged from the Mist. "Oy, children." It was Madam Eva. "Are ye lost?"

(The end)

   