Session 10: Let the Right One In
General Summary
Following the harrowing battle at the barricades of Barovia, the party grappled with the aftermath. Ismark, recognizing Hader's transformation into a werewolf and revealing Saphira's true nature as a vampire, quickly ushered the group back to the Burgomaster's mansion to prevent panic among the townsfolk.
Upon arriving, they were met with a grim scene. The mansion had been attacked; Kolyan, the father of Ismark and Ireena, lay slain, and Ireena was found unconscious with fresh bite marks on her neck. Through careful investigation, the party pieced together what had transpired: Strahd himself had infiltrated the mansion, dominated Kolyan's mind before killing him, and bitten Ireena, ominously stating, "You will see me again," before departing.
An emotional moment unfolded as Ismark and Ireena began preparing their father's body for burial. Unbeknownst to them, Dameion discreetly collected a sample of Kolyan's spinal fluid for his own secretive experiments. Ismark offered the party shelter for the night, which they accepted.
Before resting, the group went their separate ways. Saphira sought solace in a warm bath, Dameion retreated to the shed to delve into his mysterious research, and Hader, still wrestling with his lycanthropy, joined Dorian for a hunt in the woods.
During the hunt, Hader, in his werewolf form known as Red Wolf, unexpectedly attacked Dorian. The confrontation escalated into a profound discussion on the nature of evil and the struggle for control over one's darker impulses. After this tense exchange, Hader managed to regain his human form but immediately fell unconscious from exhaustion. Faced with the daunting task of moving the much larger man, Dorian summoned all his strength to drag Hader back to the mansion.
Upon arriving in the woodline near the manor, a weary Dorian was met by a bathrobe-clad Saphira and Ireena. After reviving Hader, Dorian withdrew, reluctant to discuss what had transpired. Ireena confronted Hader, warning that if his wolf ever harmed an innocent in her town, she would personally see to his end. Softening her tone, she added that he might consider wearing tighter shirts, teasing him about his impressive physique. Saphira filled Hader in on his loss of control during the battle and the concerns it raised.
Later that night, as the party rested, Ireena and Ismark discussed her future, now that Strahd had shown a direct interest in her. Ismark suggested she seek refuge in Vallaki, hoping the hallowed grounds of St. Andral's Church would offer protection. Overhearing their conversation, Hader proposed an alternative: that Ireena join their settlement of Bastion. He assured her that the village was under Nymeria's protection and might keep her safe from Strahd's reach.
Moved by the offer, Ireena agreed, expressing her willingness to aid in the rebuilding efforts and to help any other villagers seeking refuge from Barovia. With plans set and a renewed sense of purpose, the party settled in for a much-needed rest, bringing the session to a close.
Report Date
16 Nov 2024
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