Nymeria

Over a century ago, Nymeria was a radiant angel of Sulene, serving as the divine protector of the village of Bastion in the mist-shrouded lands of Barovia. Her celestial presence bathed the village in light, shielding it from the malevolent rule of Strahd and making it one of the few sanctuaries untouched by his darkness. Beneath the village's grand cathedral lay the Endless Paths, an ancient dungeon filled with forgotten powers and mysteries. Nymeria stood as the guardian of this secret, ensuring that its depths remained sealed from any who might misuse its power. Strahd, ever in pursuit of greater dominion, set his sights on Bastion and the secrets hidden beneath it. He believed that gaining access to the Endless Paths would grant him control over forces older and more potent than himself. However, Nymeria stood firmly in his way. When Strahd attempted to force entry, she used the last of her divine strength to seal the dungeon's entrance, denying him passage. Enraged by her defiance, Strahd unleashed his wrath upon Bastion, accompanied by his most feared consort, the Red Bride—an ancient vampiress wielding dark and formidable magic. While Strahd's forces ravaged the village, the Red Bride confronted Nymeria. Unable to overpower the angel through force alone, the Red Bride cast a potent curse upon her, binding Nymeria to the very curse that ensnares all of Barovia. Transformed into stone, Nymeria became a silent sentinel, her expression eternally somber. Though immobilized, Nymeria's spirit endures. For over a hundred years, she has remained in the ruins of Bastion, tirelessly guarding the sealed entrance to the Endless Paths. Her presence is a beacon to those who seek her out, and she communicates with any who are willing to listen. Nymeria's deepest wish is to see Bastion restored to its former glory and to ensure that the Endless Paths remain protected from Strahd's grasp.