Session 11

He entertains the crowed with a story:

the air tinged with the scent of spiced ale and the warmth of camaraderie, a hushed murmur of excitement swirled through the patrons. Their attention was drawn to the figure standing tall before a makeshift stage, dressed in a vibrant ensemble of colorful garments and a wide-brimmed hat.

"Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round, for tonight, I shall whisk you away to a realm where heroes clash with darkness, and untold wonders await!" Rictavio announced with a flourish, his voice captivating every ear in the tavern.

"Once, in a faraway land, amidst the lush emerald forests and soaring mountain peaks, there stood a grand citadel known as Valeranor. This shining beacon of civilization was a bastion of peace and unity, ruled by the wise King Alaric and his fair queen, Isabella. The kingdom prospered under their benevolent reign, and all who lived within its borders knew harmony and happiness."

"But as with many tales, dear listeners, a shadow lurked on the horizon. For deep in the dark recesses of the forbidden Blackwood, a malevolent sorceress, known as Morgana the Maleficent, plotted her revenge. She had been cast out of the kingdom for her wicked ways, and now, her heart burned with fury and desire for retribution."

...

• The party can roll perception to see what else is going on:
  • The Martikov boys are running around
  • The Wachter boys are giggling and making fun of the story

"And now, as the carnival's banners dance in the wind, we celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, of unity over discord. So, let us revel in the wonders of this night, for together, we stand strong against any shadow that may seek to darken our hearts!"

As Rictavio's tale concluded, the patrons erupted into applause, enchanted by the spell of his storytelling.

• He actually used magic to make the story sound even better

• He eventually approaches and warns players of The Burgomaster

  • He tells them that Vallaki is not as safe as it seems
  • And that people aren't as happy as they seem. The burgomaster makes them smile and attend his stupid festivals
    • Rictavio has not appeared at any
  • Yes, Strahd hasn't visited in 100 years, but there's nothing stopping him

• If the party talks to him, he knows all of Vallaki Lore

• If they mention Madam Eva, he's very interested, and will offer to explain the readings

  • He goes quiet when they mention the book
  • And claims to know nothing about it
  • A perception check would tell the party he's lying
  • If they call him on it, he'll take them back to his room and reveal he's a spy

• listen at the door, but Rictavio realizes they're there

• There are 3 others eating and talking cheerfully
• Give them a chance to actually meet Danika and Urwin
• Urwin may ask them to see what's going on with the wine
• Danika is a huge gossip
• Have them ask why they're in Vallaki in the first place
  • Target Anakir and make him explain why they're in town
  • Danika and Urwin can see the danger in town
    • They should recommend taking Ireena to the church
• If they learn that the party is trying to take down Strahd, they offer any assistance they can
  • If they ever need a place to stay or a meal, they can come back here
• Urwin may try to defend Strahd out of pure kindness
  • Danika: "Remember, Tolerance for the Intolerant destroys Tolerance itself, husband"
    • "That man can find the good in anyone"
  • Urwin: "It's just that no one can become that cold without having experienced his own loss"