Season 73

Season 73: Shadowed Sojourns

Date: June 26, 2023

Part 1: Meeting Esmerelda and Seeking Solace

The team, weary from their time at the abbey, gathered and decided it was time to depart from the eerie surroundings. They sought solace in the nearby village, hoping to find respite from the creeping shadows. Esmerelda ventured forth to Velacki on her own. The team made their way towards the village. Lacking inns or taverns, they sought out the Burgomaster Dmitri, their hopes resting on his generosity and willingness to provide them shelter.

Part 2: Cord-Chopping, Chicken Chatter, and Rodney's Revelry

Arriving in the village, the team found themselves in the presence of the Burgomaster Dmitri. To secure their stay, Piety suggested that Jon and Cabarus lend their strength by chopping wood, an honest task to earn their keep. Jon, a paragon of prowess, swung his axe with unwavering determination, splitting an impressive 50 cords of wood. Impressed by their diligence, the Burgomaster showed gratitude by presenting the team with a chicken, a humble token of appreciation.

While the team deliberated over the fate of the feathered gift, Rodney engaged in conversation with Ana, the village's innkeeper. Longing for a fine bottle of wine, Rodney's desires were unmet by Ana's offering. Undeterred, he procured his own libation. During their discussion, Ana revealed an intriguing tidbit: a mystical pool and shrine nestled on the north side of Krezk, whispered to hold curative powers for those who seek them.

As Piety and Cabarus engaged in a lively debate about the chicken's destiny, Jon swiftly put an end to the discussion by swiftly severing its head. Rodney, ever the philosophical ponderer, mused about the sentient nature of chickens, contemplating their place alongside the enigmatic wereravens. Nevertheless, Jon, a master of the culinary arts, skillfully prepared the chicken, dazzling the team with his deftness in handling the delectable fowl.

Part 3: Cards Unveiled and Fortunes Foretold

With the morning sun's gentle rays illuminating their camp, the team gathered to review the cryptic cards bestowed upon them by Madam Ava. Each card held a fragment of destiny, guiding their path through the realm of shadows.

Card 1: "A Wolves' Den" - A trail led them to believe that a den of wolves lay near the town of Krezk. Card 2: "The End of Winding Roads" - A winding path hinted at a destination near the majestic Mount Ghakis. Card 3: "The Sun Sword" - A powerful artifact, discovered within the sacred confines of the abbey. Card 4: "Argynvostholt Beckons" - Their quest entwined with finding a Paladin they may have yet to encounter. Card 5: "Confrontation with Strahd" - A chilling reminder of the final, inevitable battle that awaited them.

Part 4: Gateways Explored and Blessings Embraced

Eager to glean more insights, the team ventured to the village gate, seeking knowledge from the guards who stood watch. They inquired about the whereabouts of local wolf dens, yearning to uncover the lurking secrets within the wilderness. The guards pointed towards the north of Krezk, a domain shrouded in moonlit mystery, where the howls of wolves echoed through the night. A specific spot on the map, overlooking a serene lake, held the promise of answers.

Leaving their trusty cart and loyal steeds behind in the village, the team embarked on foot towards the enigmatic north side of town. Their destination beckoned, leading them to a sacred pool and shrine. Bathed in the first light of dawn, the shrine honored the Morning Lord, emanating a serene aura of healing and hope. With unbridled enthusiasm, Rodney rushed forward, wrapping his arms around the shrine, feeling a divine blessing envelop him. The Morning Lord's grace bestowed upon him a renewed sense of purpose, a glimmer of hope amidst the encroaching darkness.