>>5200879>>5201190>>5201225"So," Antonio says. "What did you learn?"
"Honestly, I'm not quite sure," you say. "The fortune tellers where I'm from tend to be more of a performance, or act. I wasn't expcting something quite so... serious. I thought she would have some concrete advice."
"Madame Eva has been reading adventurers' fortunes for almost as long as she has been alive. She got the gift earlier than most. There is no other like her. Her words will prove useful to you on your travels, I'm sure."
The sun is high in the gray sky now. Ireena is chatting with of the Vistani around the fire. You and her are prepared to hit the road and start on your way to Vallaki.
"Why does she do it?" you ask. "I'm just curious is all... if you Vistani can enter and leave Barovia any time you want, why does she stay here and read fortunes? And, why does she do it for free?"
"A question only she knows the answer to. She claims her duty is here, but has always been secritive as to why."
"Why do <span class="mu-i">you</span> choose to stay here, then, if there are places that are far less dangerous??"
Antonio shrugs. "Our home is where we make it."
Ireena finishes saying her goodbyes and gestures you over. She's heading back to the trail that leads to the Old Svalich Road.
Antonio puts his hand on your shoulder. You look at him. "Good luck finding your sister," he says.
You look down. "I wish I had a clearer lead."
He looks at you closer. "Outside Vallaki," he says, his voice low, "there is another camp. Lead by a man named Arrigal. Vistani."
You look back at him inquisitively. "What about it?"
"I didn't say this before because I didn't want to start any problems. But it might be a good place to check. Just, be careful."
"Why is it be a good place to check?"
"Arrigal used to be part of this camp. The caravan he fell in with is known to... travel outside of Barovia, luring in adventurers."
You think back to that fateful day the caravan appeared outside your home.
"They are doing errands for Strahd. We do not work directly for Strahd - we simply follow Madame Eva."
"How do you know they are bringing in adventurers? And for what purpose?"
"Many of Arrigal's adventurers get directed here, so Madame Eva can read their fortunes. For what purpose, I'm afraid I'm not sure."
Your anxiety is back. But now you have a direct lead. A new reason for your travels.
You thank him. He gives you the camp's regards.
A few minutes later, the Svalich woods have overtaken the path behind you, and the tents and wagons are no longer visible through the trees. You and Ireena are once again at Barovia's mercy.
(cont.)
