The Letter

Hail to thee of might and valor.

I, a lowly servant of Barovia, send honor to thee. We plead for thy so desperately needed assistance.

The love of my life, Ireena Kolyana, has been afflicted by an evil so deadly that even the good people of our village cannot protect her. She languishes from her wound, and I would have her saved from this menace.

There is much wealth in this community. I offer all that might be had to thee and thy fellows if thou shalt but answer my desperate plea.

Come quickly, for her time is at hand! All that I have shall be thine!

Kolyan Indirovich
Burgomaster

The adventurers pore over the letter.

Inverna frowns. “It seems we’re being hired for a rescue mission. Though the details are sparse.”  

Galandro nods. “Aye, but the promise of wealth is clear enough. I like the sound of that.”

Nib bounces excitedly in her seat. “Ooh a damsel in distress! How thrilling!” 

Donnabella clasps her hands to her heart. “We simply must help this poor soul. True love must be protected!”

Inverna rolls her eyes. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. We know nothing about these people or what afflicts the girl.” She turns to the barkeeper. “You there. What do you know of this land called Barovia?”

The barkeeper shakes his head. “Little enough. It’s a gloomy land, hidden away in the mountains. Those who visit rarely return. Dark rumors swirl about that place.” He shivers. “Not sure I’d be eager to travel there, letter or no letter.”

Inverna frowns and turns back to her companions. “It seems folly to rush blindly into this Barovia. We should learn more before departing.”

Galandro strums a cheerful tune on his fiddle. “Now Inverna, since when has a little mystery stopped us from a bit of profit and adventure?” 

Nib giggles. “I want to see the mountains! And meet this sick girl. Oh please can’t we go?”

Donnabella nods eagerly. “We have a duty to help those in need! We must away to Barovia.”  

Inverna sighs. “Fine, you’ve made your point. But we should still prepare well for the journey. Gather supplies and information. Barovia sounds like a dark place.”

The adventurers agree to make preparations before departing for Barovia in the morning. Despite Inverna’s concerns, the promise of mystery and riches beckons them onward.