Ravenloft: Prisoners of the Mist

Within the swirling Mist (IC) => Whispers in the Shadows => Local Gossip => Topic started by: Night of Reod on January 20, 2017, 10:42:06 PM

Title: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Night of Reod on January 20, 2017, 10:42:06 PM
[Earlier this evening, a trio made an appearance at the court of Burgomaster of Berez alongside of the other sellswords and mercenaries. One of the three, a man wearing black and gold colours, introduced the group as Black Wolf Security and Mercantile Company, while his companions in armor stayed mostly silent. He went on to give a lengthy talk about this new company and introduce himself and his companions, and offer the services of the Company to the Burgomaster. At the end of the day, the trio seperated as the two men in armor stayed to help the Burgomaster with his task while the man wearing black and gold headed to the nearby inn for a celebratory drink before leaving Berez.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Grendlykins, Simp of Azalin Rex on January 20, 2017, 10:55:59 PM
[Participating in the united effort of sellswords and mercenaries to retrieve the Burgomaster's family, the moderately large man clad in crimson armour has decided to content himself by remaining in Berez for the next few weeks in anticipation of the celebration planned, as well as to spend his coin on a gluttonous assortment of food.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: bocian on January 21, 2017, 06:25:22 AM
[An armored man, reserved and uncaring, could be seen marching the road along with other armed figures. Then, the same mercenary joined a small group tasked by the Burgomaster. When they returned, long hours ago, his collected demeanor vanished without a trace - the man's last effort was to return to the nobleman's manor, where, after a while, he lost consciousness. Whatever happened to him during completing the assignment, it seems that his mind, not body, took most of the damage.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Dread on January 21, 2017, 05:02:48 PM
[Already preparations can be seen made, regarding a festival to be held in two weeks' hence, in celebration of the return of Burgomaster Iancu Viteazul's family, and the heroic actions of ten individuals involved in the rescue. The normally quiet fishing village is a hotbed of excitement.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Zwickelfaust on November 17, 2017, 08:37:36 PM
Shrieks filled the night air in Berez as a great winged beast rampaged at the eastern gates. Dawn came to shine its light upon a road covered in blood and gore.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: ladylena on November 18, 2017, 08:29:53 AM
Come dawn, a familiar looking Gundarakite hobbled into the inn. After a short while, she was seen asking around the inn and town about a plant called skullcap. After trading hefty sum for several bags of the herb, the blood covered and injured Gundarakite was seen to leave the town in a sour mood. Passing by the bloodied spot where the black bat had struck.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Iridni Ren on February 22, 2018, 01:19:31 AM
A somewhat small, raven-haired woman in armor with a Pelorian shield and bearing the Wayfarer Kinship amulet arrived near dawn in the village, distributing food and a few gold to the local beggars.

That night she made her bed in the local stable, sleeping on the hay.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Macabre on April 21, 2018, 06:27:15 PM
The forests around Berez have become more silent recently again. Rumours of an old hag having returned from the dead have spreaded as bad accidents have happened in the village within the last weeks. Yet more and more outlanders have been seen - many making their way from Vallaki towards the village. However in the past weeks less mishaps have happened and less were the rumours about the dark and cursed forests around the settlement. The stories about the old hag have almost been forgotten... Yet the silent observer will have noticed that the screams in the nights have increased... Not murderous ones but those who came from very bad dreams...

It is all common at times the guards of the nightwatch asured themselves... Yet eerie feelings overcame them with each night to come... Perhaps it was just a misperception... perhaps just superstition... but the guards felt at least that the frequency of night terrors had increased among the villagers...

Perhaps it was all normal... or not the case... or perhaps...

...it was ...

(https://d2gg9evh47fn9z.cloudfront.net/800px_COLOURBOX2164693.jpg)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Tarnation! on January 28, 2019, 05:11:31 AM
A young Barovian man arrived in the village a few days past. He frequents one of the cottages near the stream, and spends most of his time digging clay into pails for brick-making, and harvesting reeds for basket-weaving. Small and blundering as he is, he often slips into the shallows and finishes the day caked in muck. Other than the occasional chortle his efforts elicit, no-one pays him much mind, though he has been visited by an armor-clad Ezrite at least once.
Now and then, he minds two small children: a girl and a boy.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Tarnation! on January 31, 2019, 12:19:07 AM
The young man remains in the village, though it seems he has suffered an injury. His left hand is splinted and tightly bound. Unable to work, he spends his days ham-fistedly drawing in a drafting book with his non-dominant hand, and socializing with the townspeople. Rumor has it that he is the elder brother of Simion Sârbu, a builder who lives in the town.

Some evenings, the man wanders to the burial grounds, and seemingly vanishes into the fog and gloom...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Tarnation! on January 31, 2019, 10:08:20 PM
Following the breaking of the gate and the assault on the night watchman and the Gundarakite beggar, the half-pint Barovian has taken to patrolling the town after dusk. Though, his stunted build and injury considered, he may be considered easy prey by that which roams the night...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: qwertyuioppp on April 23, 2019, 01:06:54 AM
Lying some short hour's ride north-northwest of Berez, the farmstead of Florica Inu is gutted by flames, burned down to its foundations. "It's no surprise," say some, "that woman always did spend too much time with outlanders." The small mill and barn still stand, though the land remains unoccupied, for the Barovian people yet carry their superstitions.

It had been at least a year, perhaps two, or three, since she or her husband were last seen in Berez proper, and rumours of night-creatures and spiritual visitations had long tainted the reputation of the farm. Whatever the truth of it, there is finality and closure to their tale in the tall, dark smoke.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: qwertyuioppp on April 30, 2019, 10:52:05 PM
The Burgomeister of Berez celebrates, hosting a feast for his close friends. He showcases long swathes of custom, fine silks, draping them over the furniture and encouraging them to be touched and stroked. His guests (and some guards) drink deeply of foreign alcohols, and the repeated, triumphant noise of trumpeting, from a fancy hunting horn, sounds through the night.

According to the lord, all these rich items, and then some, were recovered by members of the Wayfarer Kinship.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Arawn on October 10, 2019, 12:50:36 AM
Word spreads throughout Berez and environs that unidentified thieves broke into the Burgomaster's house and stole papers and coin, as well as threatening the lives of his family. He is said to be offering a five thousand fang reward for information leading to their apprehension.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Erebus on November 01, 2019, 11:25:17 AM
A caravan of vardos trundle along the banks of the River Luna. Ironmongery of all designs clatters and clangs from the sides of the heavy-laden vardos, and a column of braying animals and ruffle-feathered birds follows in its wake.

In the clearing outside of Berez, the vardos circle. A heavyset, mustachioed man leaps from the lead vardo, and surveils the site. "Kir-yahg," he declares, and a woman, head bound in cloth, descends from her own vardo. She joins the man at the centre of the circle, pauses, and then nods. "Kir-yahg!" she cries, and the caravan roars back "Lunadi!"
With startling speed the camp is established. A fire is struck, which grows healthy and strong. The beasts are stabled, and a makeshift forge is assembled, which too swiftly comes to life. In only a few hours, the sounds of hammering metal and bellows blasts fill the surrounding countryside.

The Kamii have come to Berez.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Erebus on November 02, 2019, 05:18:40 PM
In the deary morning, on the banks of the Luna River on the outskirts of the village of Berez, there is great commotion. Overnight, stalls are erected and wares laid out. Today, a trademeet. The Kamii, ironmongers without parallel, are hawking their wares. There are deals to be struck for all, in gold, blood, and favours. For any man would be lucky to wield a Kamii blade.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Erebus on November 03, 2019, 12:25:37 PM
In the dead of night, a quartet of adventurers emerge from the Kamii camp, led by an enormous pig on a rope.
They go deep into the woods, only to emerge a few hours later looking dirty, bruised and a little bloodied.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Erebus on November 10, 2019, 07:39:46 AM
A quartet of adventurers enter the camp. There, three of them partake in a strange ritual of bloodletting with the vistani within. Kind words and pledges are exchanged.
Shortly thereafter, the camp is broken. The fires are doused, and the forge quenched. Everything is loaded into colourful vardos and onto the backs of beasts of burden.
In short order the caravan departs, leaving no trace that they were ever there..
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on January 18, 2020, 06:33:00 AM
Amongst the howls and baying of wolves, high atop one of the cliffs on the trail to Zeidenburg, a man hunches over his campfire, plucking the strings of his lute as the howls died down. A sombre tone surrounded the soft melody the plucking of his fingers created, crafting a tune filled with a deep sadness one could only identify as grief that echoed out amongst the thick brush of trees and bushes, a solitary song from the heart that appeared to mirror the stillness of the nearby river luna. By daybreak, the man was gone, but a  marker was left upon the nearby tree, carved into it's thick bark, the words unmistakably Luktar;

Quote


Little Bear

"A Little Bear once wandered the thick forest, small and misbegotten

A mongrel of breeds, thought vile and rotten

Crafty and clever, long did it roam

Seeking something foreign, a home

A Fox it did find, clad in leather

In no short time, they were tethered

Though Little Bear faded away

The Fox remained denying decay

Though her name was trashed and well trodden

She is forever loved, never forgotten"

(http://puu.sh/F17KI/1224a7bb55.jpg)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: NacreCicatrix on February 27, 2020, 03:58:08 AM
During the last few months, a bedraggled Gundarakite has taken up residence in the burial yard. He tends to entrench himself in an open grave during the most wintry of nights, sheltering from the gale and snowfall. Else-wise, he simply keeps watch over the grounds from the gloom, a shovel in one hand and a bell in the other.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on September 17, 2020, 12:59:40 PM
A red-feathered Hawk is seen circling the Woods of Berez, the echoes of her hoarse screech can be heard throughout the the thick forest in the dark of night, solitary and mournful...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Maverick on February 22, 2021, 09:16:08 AM
Past the barricades and siege weapons, one of the Fekete Sereg stands atop the walls stopping people from entering and exiting. He writes on paper and quill, a flintlock loaded and ready for use on his hip. His annoyance can be heard down the road followed by scribbling of the quill.

It seems Berez is open, for the time being...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Drekavac on February 22, 2021, 03:19:33 PM
Days after the village of Berez was seized by rebel elements of the so-called Black Army of Gundarak, there are stirrings as wagons move between Zeidenburg and Berez through the Dreadpass as Gundarakite control spreads in the area outside of Old Gundarak-that-was. Rumors of zombies striking Berez are spread by Barovians fleeing Berez who head for Wachter and Ionelus lands nearby. Bandits and monsters continue to pose a problem with rumors of wolves killing Barovian travelers on the Dreadpass, yet, oddly Gundarakites are spared.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on February 24, 2021, 02:24:07 AM
The recently taken town of Berez is greeted with the arrival of a high ranking officer in the Fekete Sereg. Cheers from members of the fifth followed by quiet conversation as the town's defenders make adjustments to their fortified defenses. Notably, the officers take their turn on the ramparts, watching for passers by with due diligence.

(https://i.imgur.com/qK781uG.png)

Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: BwpsychoName on February 26, 2021, 07:22:00 PM
As night fell and a strange fog rolled in, a single word spoken in unison from a mass of voices lifted from the roads that surround Berez:

"Strahd..."

The night was filled with the roar of gunfire, the clashing of steel, and the splintering of wood. As the sun finally rose over the town, the beleaguered defenders rose a cheer as the flag of The Fekete Sereg remained flown high from the walls.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Drekavac on March 01, 2021, 07:52:53 PM
Word travels up the Dreadpass from the way of Zeidenburg. Following the Republic of Gundarak's ban on the Cult of Nerull there have been numerous small uprisings in the countryside of the resurgent Gundarak including incidents in the walls of Zeidenburg as guardsmen begin to enforce the ban on the old duchy's faith. It becomes clear the action is controversial, especially among those who look to the old god and marks the influence the Cult still has in sections of Old-Gundarak-that-was...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on March 01, 2021, 08:48:20 PM
In the small hours of the morning, the serene quiet of Berez was shattered by the cacophany of gunfire and hoarse orders being directed from the commander of the towns defenses. Three large shapes lumbered out of sight as a thick cloud of smoke hovered over the walls of the town..
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on March 03, 2021, 01:42:24 AM
Upon the sudden disturbance and discovery of a dark ritual site outside the walls of the heavily armed town of Berez, three members of the Fekete Sereg follow tracks east in the dark, only to return not long after, retreating and firing on large mishapen bear-like beasts. The Commander of the garrison was seen barking orders to his men and the front gates night security has been doubled..
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: bloodless on March 03, 2021, 06:16:43 AM
A small note is left pinned to a tree on the very first row of the forest's line in view of the outpost wall by daylight. It requests for one Balthasar to come alone or not at all if he wishes to receive back what is his.

Where there was a note, now only a nail and a small piece of torn paper remain.


Spoiler: show
Doubling up as paging a player, but Balthasar please poke me on discord (Nick#1084) so that we can arrange a meetup!
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: HouseOfLament on March 03, 2021, 09:21:25 AM
A small group of Fekete Sereg break their relaxation by the campfire at night to investigate something just outside their walls.  They go further into the night and volleys of gunshots are heard in Berez some time later.  The next day one of them goes back out once again with a cart and returns bearing a grisly load that he buries in the cemetery.  The soldier performs a funeral rite before going about the rest of his day.  Any curious onlookers are warned to stay behind the walls at night for neuri have made the woods near Berez their hunting ground.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Morfenzi Murderer on March 06, 2021, 02:42:28 AM
Just before dawn, the rumble of fire and shouts of combat ends with murder on the outskirts of Berez.

All that remains come light is far far too much blood, and a single token.

A token of Despair.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Malvado on March 08, 2021, 06:01:32 AM
Stretching out from Vallaki, the trail of papers continue up until Berez ...

Quote
HOLD NO ONE ACCOUNTABLE IF NOT
- Farkas Vérzés -

GUNDARAK REBUKES YOU !

TRADERS WHO DENY SUPPLIES TO WHOM IS BLEEDING FOR YOU UNDER THE PRETENSE OF NEUTRALITY

GUNDARAK REBUKES YOU !

SPURIOUS CHURLS WHO MUMBLE DISSENT OVERNIGHT AND OBEY AT WILL COME DAYBREAK

GUNDARAK REBUKES YOU !

JUSTICE ADVOCATES WHOSE ALLEGIANCE LIES ONLY IN CONVENIENCE

GUNDARAK REBUKES YOU !

LOUSY MOUTHS WHO MADE HEARSAY YOUR VOCATION AND FORGET THE BLIGHTED SOIL YOU WAKE UP ON

- The Wolf Bleeds -

 

((The papers were placed In Game))
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Drekavac on April 04, 2021, 05:44:19 PM
Following an attack on the Wachter Estate, a large contingent of Wachter Household guards arrive and lay siege to the Village of Berez. With the use of stolen cannons, the Wachter forces decimate the Gundarakite-made defenses and a great battle was joined where the village's gates were thrown open as the small village was attacked seemingly on all sides. However, the cannons go silent and the Wachter host raises its siege and withdraws in good order. The rebellion maintains its grasp on Berez, if barely...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on April 06, 2021, 08:27:57 AM
A days respite came over the damaged town of Berez as the Fekete Sereg's forces got to work rebuilding their broken defenses from the recent attack of the Wachter Household. To passers by, it would appear that the fortifications had doubled their previous size and strength, as if the forces of the Black Army were preparing for further attacks. Barriers were erected around the small town, blocking off entrances into the town save the one trade road, muddied to the point it resembled something of a bog. The borderline of Gundarak once again stretched to the the entrance of Berez's woods, a large sign erected that denotes the border, along with an announcement;


Quote
REPUBLIC OF GUNDARAK BORDER

(https://i.imgur.com/W09H7mc.png)

CITIZENS AND OUTLANDERS ALIKE, OBEY THE LAWS OF GUNDARAK

-The cult of Nerull is proscribed DOGMA by the Republic and OUTLAWED. Any practitioners of this heinous cult will be tried to the full extent of the law!

-The occupation of Berez will continue until such a time that Barovia delivers the city of Teufeldorf back to rightful Gundarakite sovereignty!

FROM THE WEST TO THE EAST, GUNDARAK SHALL BE MADE WHOLE ONCE MORE


Spoiler: show
OOC: Placed in game.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on April 11, 2021, 05:50:28 PM
The celebration at the Trusty Ox Inn draws to a close as the merchants pack up their supplies, making the journey through the night. The garrison of the Fekete Sereg and their 5th Company superiors man the walls as the night draws on, dozens of eyes watching from the fortified town once more.

(https://i.imgur.com/lNIYPNd.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on April 16, 2021, 07:06:19 PM
A thundering 'crackack' like thunder sends birds and mammals alike scattering deeper into the woods surrounding Berez as members of the Fekete Sereg, The Black Army of Gundarak perform several styled drills, their aim precise and sharp, leaving little more than smoking dummies.. riddled with holes.

(https://i.imgur.com/gQin8hf.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Drekavac on April 18, 2021, 07:02:12 PM
Word travels that Lord Regent Demetrius Ajkler was assassinated during a sermon held by Oton Boritsi within the city of Zeidenburg. The Black Army fought a large contingent of Nerull cultists who stormed the incomplete cathedral of Ezra being constructed within the western part of the city. After a long night of fighting, the Black Army under the direction of General Katheryna Roskoványi who has declared 'emergency measures' and has assumed leadership of the Republic and Zeidenburg from Polgarmestser Ardonk Szerieza. The Diet of Gundarak, a council of polgarmesters and influential Gundarakites that form the basis of a legislative body has not yet met on the issue but word travels that the second election of the nascent republic may come under way in the summer...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Last Exit to Barovia on April 19, 2021, 02:58:50 AM
Those working the docks of Berez may be heard grumbling about another outsider skulking around the riverside houses, scaring away the fish. In the early hours of the morning a man in green and black bearing a white collar interrupted their work to ask questions about any spirits they might have seen. He lingered around the houses, fixated upon a noxious fog, burning all sorts of incenses and chanting in an uncommon tongue. He did not press in his questions, but was said to leave in a huff, coughing as he returned towards the inn.


(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/774087221673328660/833597147868823602/unknown.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Soulbourne on April 21, 2021, 12:11:03 AM
All through the morning, an older Gundarakite woman wandered the town, shouting the name of a young boy. He seems to have disappeared...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: The Milkman on April 21, 2021, 02:19:17 AM
As the sun fell a cadre of Black Army soldiers and accompanying freelance exorcists sally out the gates toward Zeidenburg. Shortly thereafter horrid wails pierce the night, increasing in tempo and ferocity with the sound of sword and shot intermittent. Abruptly as it began it falls to silence. The cadre is seen returning battered but whole, and the rot mists ebb on . . 
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: BwpsychoName on April 22, 2021, 12:08:49 AM
[As night fell again on Berez, the entire village's torches went out all at once.
The hours that followed were filled with the shouting of orders and the sharp crack of musket fire, lasting nearly until the sun rose the next day...]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on April 23, 2021, 11:51:04 PM
The clashes of battle and the shouting of orders rise and fall within the fortified town of Berez. Witnesses claim they saw armies of spirits suddenly descend upon the Black Army Soldiers, a fierce battle ensuing followed by the rapid deployment of troops westward...

(https://i.imgur.com/JSCBaAe.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on April 23, 2021, 11:54:41 PM
A bittersweet victory follows the return of the Fifth Company Scouting party and it's would-be rescuers. Reports are they successfully eliminated the child kidnapper. The once quiet town of Berez is suddenly ablaze with angry mobs, jeers and the sounds of rocks pelting flesh echo through the streets as the Gundarakite mob has found someone to blame on the disappearance and deaths of their children; an elven visitor. As soldiers of the Fekete Sereg move about attempting to disperse the mob and cut down the unfortunate sylvan's corpse, the Garrison Commander addresses the crowd with talk of a Nerulilite murderer responsible for the deaths of the innocent...


(https://i.imgur.com/IvWaxK6.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: ladylena on April 24, 2021, 09:46:08 AM
[Early morning a letter accompanied by a gloom flower appear on the small table in Berez]
(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/505792975755018246/835511201046855750/unknown.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: HouseOfLament on April 24, 2021, 09:57:37 AM
Five candles appear near a freshly dug grave in Berez.  A rite is performed on the day of the burial and again four days after that.  It is reminiscent of a funeral rite but something is off about it.


O Blessed Ezra, Our Guardian in the Mists.
She who sacrificed Herself to fill the Hollow.
Healer of the sick, protector of the weak, guide to the lost.
To you Berez prays.

The Mists of Death gave shape to this suffering.
Many are the Legion of Night who seek to harm this place.
The Darkness in the Heart of Man begot senseless massacre.
From this tragedy arose the Stealer of Breath.

Please untether this soul from the Mists of Death that we might rest.
Consecrate this soil, O Ezra
and repel from these people this unholy abomination.

I beg you to hear me, O Blessed Guardian:
Enough men have died.
Enough women have died.
Enough children have died.
Please, O Merciful Guardian, end this suffering.

Amen.


(https://i.imgur.com/c0b6Eiw.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Praying Mantis on April 24, 2021, 10:16:26 AM
*Patrons of the Trust Ox Inn are treated to a new form of entertainment for the time being.  An elven storyteller regales the taverns main hall with tales of the Black Army's exploits that lead them to Berez.  Though of fey kind and an outlander, the bard's gift with words and charismatic positivity in his work leave listeners feeling a bit more inspired after his performances.

Most recently, a favorite tale has emerged amongst the populace titled "A Dark Army Brings Light".  In embellished detail and captivating prose, the Black Army and band of outlander adventuring allies rush to the aid of Berez against the malicious denizens of the spirit world.  The tale culminates with the defeat of a horrid banshee within the villages own turf!  Those who were lost in the battle are praised, and the elven narrator ends the story each time with a moral of encouragement that when people of all backgrounds work together the impossible can be achieved.*
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: HouseOfLament on April 28, 2021, 09:18:46 AM
A wave of undead has attacked the occupied village of Berez.  The Fekete Sereg has previously disposed of these undead by burning them but this time the Black Army sees fit to bury the bodies in the local graveyard.  Some recruits and privates can be seen laboring through the day to dig the necessary burial plots while the bodies themselves are respectfully laid out nearby with burial shrouds on top of them.  Burials begin later in the day after a respectful and somber showing of some kind.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on April 30, 2021, 07:08:41 PM
Movement can be seen in the forests surrounding Berez as patrols of the Black Army begin to step up. A new border outpost is established not far from the treeline, a clear message to any passerby..

Quote
REPUBLIC OF GUNDARAK BORDER

(https://i.imgur.com/W09H7mc.png)

CITIZENS AND OUTLANDERS ALIKE, OBEY THE LAWS OF GUNDARAK

-The cult of Nerull is proscribed DOGMA by the Republic and OUTLAWED. Any practitioners of this heinous cult will be tried to the full extent of the law!

-The occupation of Berez will continue until such a time that Barovia delivers the city of Teufeldorf back to rightful Gundarakite sovereignty!

FROM THE WEST TO THE EAST, GUNDARAK SHALL BE MADE WHOLE ONCE MORE


Spoiler: show
OOC: Placed in game.


(https://i.imgur.com/RYL0BDU.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Dardonas on May 03, 2021, 10:30:56 AM
[In the night following, a strange increase in coordinated undead activities resume in the areas around Berez, as if searching for something.  Shallow graves along the road to Zeidenberg are exhumed though nothing within them is taken.  Reports of strange and unnerving chills and whispers become more frequent for passersby.  Perhaps the most damning rumor of them all is the claim that the dead would speak...]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Dardonas on May 03, 2021, 06:55:42 PM
[A thundering explosion wracks the small town of Berez, blasting open the barricaded gate on the north side of the small town in the early hours of the morning.  The charred remains of a goat is settled on the edge of the afflicted area with burns that settle to the marrow.  The scorch marks left behind are reminiscent of something akin to a sudden eruption of heat, as if the air itself had spontaneously combusted.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Praying Mantis on May 03, 2021, 11:13:28 PM
Within the tavern bar of the Trust Ox, a familiar elven storyteller weaves a tale not as full of optimism as his usual prose.  He talks of the corpses of the dead stalking in the night.  The story culminates with a shadow clad witch of darkness summoning the tools of war to act no longer inanimate, but with a dire will of their fiendish master.  As shadow and spirit skulk on the edge of the horizon, one of the villages own Black Army is struck down in one fell swipe.  Her body hauled into the darkness before help could arrive. 
The elf tale spinner shows sign of a nasty injury of his own perhaps from trying to intervene? One can't help but wonder if this was was non-fiction witnessed first hand, as the bard finishes his story and sulk in the corner, drinking one too many ales.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on May 06, 2021, 01:28:07 AM
The recent attacks on the town appear to die down as an increased watch is set upon all the entrances into Berez. Travellers report that patrols frequently walk through the town and back to their barracks. Whatever the reason for the sudden increase in supernatural occurances, it appears the Black Army is taking no chances with the security of the town..
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on May 06, 2021, 08:38:21 PM
Tempers flare in the fortified town of Berez as the age old conflict between Gundarakites and Barovians rears it's ugly head once more. Soldiers of the Black Army rush towards the growing angry mobs from both nations, armed to the teeth with makeshift weapons and farming tools. As the acting commander moved in to calm the unruly mob, the first blow was struck. It is unclear which side swung first, but what had begun as angry protests soon turned bloody..
(https://i.imgur.com/Ez6jSGJ.png)

A deathly silence ensues the aftermath of the riot, with Barovian and Gundarakite laying dead at the foot of the Trusty Ox. The Soldiers of the Black Army move the dead to the graveyard, mixed emotions over their weary faces..
(https://i.imgur.com/az7kDrE.png)

Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Facilis on May 17, 2021, 03:54:51 AM
Along the upper ridges of the Road to Zeidenburg - a strange symbol has been carved onto one of the stone pillars near a mud cave just south of it.  The symbol in question is a depiction of a bow with a needle replacing what should be an arrow ready to fire.  Perhaps it's a nod to something?  Or maybe just pointless art
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PrimetheGrime on May 19, 2021, 08:47:40 PM
Come morning, the sleepy town of Berez shows no sign of the barricades and fortifications it once had outside it's gates. The plains outside of the town appear blackened and scorched, however. In place of the fortifications, there is a single, lone combat dummy clothed in red and black with a mop for hair. The dummy's face is painted in clown makeup, a sign hangs from the neck, the writing bold and black.

(https://i.imgur.com/gLKpKcb.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Blackwell on May 19, 2021, 10:36:23 PM
There is a savage display on the southern side of Berez, following the aftermath of the razing. Two bodies are mutilated, in garbs that one might be able to decipher as resembling the Black Army attire. Their blood is painted across the dirt and mud, pooled in the rainfall. There is a clear message smeared onto the wall, seemingly done with someone's palm:

STAY OUT
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: mooner on May 20, 2021, 11:31:10 PM
Vallaki Garda's Dog Company march through the small town of Berez, to the quiet cheer of the remaining Barovian locals. They continue through the southern gate and the distant sound of gunfire resonates faintly through the night air. The patrol returns a little more worse for wear, with at least two of the guards who departed yet to make a return. Seeking shelter for the night, the guardsmen file into the Trusty Ox Inn for a meal and some rest.

For the first time in a long while, a sense of normality returns to the town - despite sunken boats, burned homes and slaughtered livestock - as Vallaki's guards converse and share stories with the locals during the old night. A creeping wave of anxiety threatens the precarious order of the town, however, as preparations for the war are gradually set into place over the coming weeks.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Drekavac on June 03, 2021, 07:41:49 PM
Following the liberation of Berez following the entry of the Vallaki Garda into the village it is not long after that news returns of the rescue of the Burgomaster of Berez's family from Zeidenburg after they were supposedly taken with the retreating rebels as hostages. However, notably, the family remained in Vallaki's Citadel where they were delivered supposedly by uniformed members of the Red Vardo Traders of Vallaki. The Wachter Militia advance south to the Dreadpass and seem to have cleared the obstacles placed by the retreating Black Army of Gundarak. The Dreadpass rings with the occasional fire of musket fire and cannon...
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Dread on June 07, 2021, 08:57:03 PM
[A somber mood falls over the village of Berez as a host of soldiers from Vallaki made their way to the freshly-liberated fishing village to carry out the Count's edict: Burgomaster Iancu Viteazul, for his incompetence and his failure to keep the rebels from occupying Berez, was sentenced to death. The fishermen who call Berez home carry out their daily labours listlessly, accompanied by the muted sounds of wailing and sobbing from Musatei Viteazul, his widow and now the new Burgomistress.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: bloodless on March 01, 2022, 07:45:34 PM
Local people going to tend to the graves discovered a strange arrangement inside the Berez cemetery. The likely suspect of this unexplained act is an outlander who'd been seen going in and out of the town several times recently, but as he didn't seem to bother anyone, no one bothered with him in turn beyond a passing glance. 

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/798665194028269618/948367231606202398/first.PNG)

Another strange new addition was later spotted some distance away from the town's main gates. What the reason for such acts might be is anyone's guess.

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/798665194028269618/948367231878823946/second.PNG)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Last Exit to Barovia on March 30, 2022, 05:29:03 PM
[Just outside of the town two armored figures, clad in dark silver and green, are seen searching through the wooded hills. They disappear into the mouthlet of a cave for a short time, emerging untarnished. After searching the ground in the surrounding area to no avail they return on the path they came, towards Vallaki.]

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/774087221673328660/958839978526392330/unknown_2.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Day Old Bread on January 19, 2023, 10:47:57 PM
Late in the night, a courier arrived on horseback. She stabled her horse and spent the night, leaving at dawn. Before she left, a notice was posted by the gates of the small town of Berez.

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/718284794382778448/1065815451432652800/image.png)
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/718284794382778448/1065815541538902116/image.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: finchy267 on February 04, 2023, 08:54:48 PM
[A dark and worrisome mood falls over the village of Berez as day breaks, villagers come out of their homes to find a guard has gone missing in the night, all that is left by the gate are deep drag marks in the mud leading towards the South and a severed hand.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: finchy267 on February 25, 2023, 07:04:28 PM
Several notices have been pinned to various trees in and around the area of Berez, the contents of these letters are mostly in Balok, but there is one sentence that has been written in Luktar.


Quote
The handwriting of this letter is neat and it appears great care has been taken. The first half is in Balok and states:

"To those of Barovian blood, know that your mistreatment of those different from you is known to me. The actions you and your ancestors have taken will have consequences.

If you continue to carry out the mistreatment of Gundarakites, know that I -will- come for you and your families so that you may even feel a slither of pain that has been inflicted on those you hate and fear. None will be safe from the wrath of my people. We will be free."

The second half of this letter is written in Luktar:

"If any of Gundarakite blood have been mistreated by The Devil's lapdogs or his people, leave letters for me with their names and misdeeds outside the place the Day of Silent Hope was held."

Spoiler: show
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/815284849442685006/1079186160900919416/image.png)(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/815284849442685006/1079186250713534495/image.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Despot on March 29, 2023, 04:24:52 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/5CvIttM.png)
Quote
As one travels along the dirt road that winds through the dense forest towards Berez, a humble yet newly built shrine can be seen. Located at the edge of the road, overlooking the tranquil river flowing by, this shrine is devoted to the Morninglord. Despite its rustic construction, the shrine is adorned with boxes brimming with flowers in shades of gold and yellow. Two simple benches have been placed beside the shrine. The flickering candlelight and the soothing aroma of incense contribute to the serene ambiance that envelops the shrine.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Despot on March 31, 2023, 03:30:39 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/ut10O23.png)
Quote
It appears that a new addition has been added to the humble shrine. A woven basket brimming with an assortment of foods and drinks has been placed next to the altar. Despite the heavy rainfall, a small parchment has been carefully tucked away inside the basket, shielding its message from the elements. It reads the following in the common tongue;

Spoiler: show
(https://i.imgur.com/egieIt2.png)



Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Silence is Violence on March 31, 2023, 11:10:49 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/ut10O23.png)

Quote
[A small stock of pewter bottles are to be found within the woven donation basket; simple concoctions to prevent common fevers or ailments. The shrine is left as it was, the sylvan icon left both unsoiled and unpraised.]
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: PlatointheCave on April 01, 2023, 05:44:58 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/ut10O23.png)

Quote
In the dead of night something coalesces from the shadows, and leaves strange substances in the basket.

Spiral patterns are left painted on the side of the shrine, their meaning unclear.

(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/502334793175007253/1089638332046245949/Untitled_Artwork.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: finchy267 on April 01, 2023, 12:15:03 PM
[In the middle of the night, it would appear the shrine has had another visitor, this time however, it was not one with good intentions. A grizzly scene is left as well as a new addition to the basket.]

(https://i.imgur.com/bAt8szt.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Despot on April 01, 2023, 09:36:21 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/ktaMNBs.png)
Quote
As one travels the roads leading to or from Berez, they may come across an elven woman clad in the vibrant hues of the Morninglord, toiling tirelessly to restore order to the chaos that was wrought the night before. The desecrated altar has been moved, and the woman works diligently to cleanse the bloodstains from the grass, though faint splotches of dried blood still mar the verdant expanse. By the time the sun begins to set, a humble shrine to the Rosy Dawn God has been erected, its facade restored to its former state.

Worshipers are once again welcome to pay their respects, at least for now.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Stygian Witch on April 03, 2023, 02:43:51 PM
A foreign missionary engages the new burgomistress in diplomacy. Gifts have been presented and the conversation ends amicably.

(http://i.imgur.com/1Djbq7L.jpg) (https://imgur.com/1Djbq7L)

Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Brimstone on April 23, 2023, 12:37:50 PM
A public spectacle creates a buzz around Berez and rumors of the altercation begin to suffuse through Barovia.  By all accounts, a maimed, retired Berez militiaman confronted another guardsman with raucous verbal beratement and inflammatory accusations.  Unable or unwilling to be silenced, the man who once held distinction with the local militia had to be restrained, shackled, and carted off into holding.  The following day, his unruly behavior was corrected via public flogging and he was last seen hobbling down the road away from the village, a previously proud head hung low in disgrace.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Despot on May 15, 2023, 06:48:32 PM
Quote
As morning breaks over Barovia, travelers and farmers stumble upon a gruesome sight along the road. The remnants of a victim, taken by something lurking in the depths of the night, are left for all to witness.

Spoiler: show
(https://i.imgur.com/88tWkG2.png)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: SwordChucks on May 16, 2023, 12:13:55 AM
Quote
As morning breaks over Barovia, travelers and farmers stumble upon a gruesome sight along the road. The remnants of a victim, taken by something lurking in the depths of the night, are left for all to witness.

Spoiler: show
(https://i.imgur.com/88tWkG2.png)

Travelers would observe two grey clad nights bearing the symbol of Kelemvor, finding and carrying the bodies to Vallaki.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Iconoclast on July 01, 2023, 08:45:46 AM


With the always much anticipated arrival of spring, a familiar foreigner and missionary is seen returning to the small fishing village after having weathered the long winter back in his homeland of Hazlan. The tall, armored man with a tattoo of a manticore upon his shaved head is seen ruffling the hair of the 'werewolf' as the imaginative boy had come to view the somewhat exotic foreigner as a playmate prior to that winter, regularly stalking up upon the missionary as he posted watch alongside the Berez militia, after some form of agreement had formally been made between the Church of the Lawgiver and Burgomeistress Vitezual some months ago.

The missionary is seen paying respects to the matron of the Vandura family, Caltuna, before entering the Trusty Ox Inn. After checking back into his room, he is seen checking in on the well being of Musatel and her young child, before rejoining the militia posted at the eastern gate, providing another set of eyes and ears to the security of the small village with a troubled past. 




Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: TorkaUmbra on July 02, 2023, 04:01:57 AM
What seems to be a “fat unicorn” is running around the forests at night and hunting wolves, worgs, and werewolves.
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Nekro83 on July 02, 2023, 06:11:20 AM
A paper is pinned to a tree just outside the gates of Berez

(https://i.imgur.com/CObbM5v.png)

OOC: Placed in game


Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: Iconoclast on July 07, 2023, 08:25:08 PM


During the night, with a downpour and frenzy of howling, a ferocious werewolf attacked the gates of Berez, the gates shuddering and nearly shattering under its brute strength.  The lone militia man on duty was not alone in protecting the village, as the missionary of the Lawgiver placed himself before the gates.  The man from Hazlan was heard shouting at the beast, making it known that the villagers were under the protection of the Church of the Lawgiver and that it should flee at once to find easier prey. The Gudkaede remained steadfast before the gates, not leaving the side of the militia to give chase once the beast was heard departing.

Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Brimstone on July 21, 2023, 03:03:45 AM
Residents of Berez awoke in the morning clamoring about a bizarre cold that suffused through the village overnight accompanied by eerie chanting in the darkness nearby.  Some of the livestock, mostly goats and pigs left outside, were found dead in the morning; Their coats and skin still touched by frost when discovered.  The chill was vanquished with the sun of the morning and the chatter of rumors about the abrupt, frigid night were stilled with the shrill cry of the cemetery groundskeeper.

Those that investigated found a grisly, macabre scene among the interred and grave marker littered grounds.  A single grave was the site of a profane ritual.  A yet unidentified Barovian man’s body was bound and supine, limbs splayed out, and sacrificed. Blood spilled over the raised grave and pooled like a nimbus at the base.  Bottles of wine were shattered and broken around the grave and their contents spilled upon the corpse and surrounding area.  Piles of wolf fangs were spread about in a circle around the ritual and blood was smeared over the tomb’s marker which depicted a weather and time-worn rosy disk – a symbol of the Morninglord faith. The people of Berez have given the site a wide berth, at least for now, fearful and wary of what horrors being even near it may bring.


(https://i.imgur.com/d6XvtS6.jpg)
Title: Re: Barovia - Road to Zeidenburg - Berez
Post by: DM Sinister on August 18, 2023, 09:01:47 PM
With the coming dawn smoke rises on the Road to Zeidenburg. Blood stains the ground. All that remains are smoldering embers and burnt remains. Rumors of soldiers bearing the crest of Lord-Boyar Ioan Wachter marching the road some point before headed to a known rebel camp.