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The whole crowd is now engaged with his story, the sound of crickets and crackling fire filling the brief silences in his telling.
The man's expression grows dark. "When the devil Strahd fell upon him, however, the wizard's magic couldn't save him. I saw him thrown a thousand feet to his death." He points toward the base of the castle. "I climbed down to the river to search for the wizard's body, to see if, you know, he had anything of value... but he was nowhere to be found. Carried away by the River Ivlis." He leans back and takes a swig from his flask, clearly satisfied with the presentation of his story.
Great adventurers have entered Barovia seeking to defeat the devil Strahd, it seems. But none of them have returned - either because they are slain by the Lord himself, or because of this "curse" they speak of, wherein they literally cannot leave. What role do you play here? You came here for one thing, and you are not making the progress you had hoped for.
You quietly stand up. Ireena has been completely engrossed in the festivities, participating in conversation and paying little attention to you. You decide to step away from the campfire for a little bit, seeking a break in the silence so you may clear your head.
Antonio catches sight of you, and he discretely follows. "We did not take her," he says as he catches up to you. "We promise you that much. But we cannot say she was not compelled. Speak to Madame Eva in the morning. I believe she was expecting you."
You cock your head at that suggestion. But before you can think of something good to ask in response, he is already starting back to the party around the campfire.
You look over at the big tent at the edge of the encampment. The red glow of light pours out from within it.
Suggestions (you may vote for multiple at once if they do not conflict with one another):
>Listen to his suggestion. Go to sleep and speak to the woman in the tent in the morning before leaving.
>Don't let this go. Track down Antonio and demand more information from him. (Persuasion or Intimidation, DC 18)
>Rejoin the festivities. You'd like to spend some time talking to Ireena, and you need to find some enjoyment in this trip.
>Go for a walk alone to clear your head.
>Sneak around the camp. Maybe there is valuable information they aren't telling you. (Stealth, DC 17)
>These folks seem rich. You wonder what they are keeping in their wagons. (Sleight of Hand, DC 18)
>Other (specify)
