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Trade booms and goes well, much to the pleasure of the local merchants, even if some regard the "Outlander invasion" with a skeptical eye, specially the guards, who have increased their patrols around the district...
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After months of receiving no word, no reports, no letters from loved ones, from soldiers who have been deployed to the west in the conquered land of Old Gundarak, fears and rumors begin to spread from village to village. Some claim that anywhere from thirty to a hundred soldiers, the whole unit, has become entirely unaccounted for. For the families of the missing, not knowing has fed their growing fears and worries. Some fear that the Gundarakite revolutionary leader Ardonk Szerieza, and his “gypsy witch” from Invidia, Gabrielle Anderre, and their rebel forces are to blame.
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While no official announcements have been made, the city officers appear unconcered about any lack of communication from the front.
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The air is dark, as the night sky envelopes Barovia tightly. Madison stands with Finn near the statue of Strahd, watching her once close friend, take the whip to her back. "So much blood.... so..... so much....." she thinks to herself. "dont go near it Madison.... dont go near it...." She bites her lip till it bleeds, and the red liquid drips into her mouth. She calms for a minute or two, then stares longingly again at Lucia. Finn pulls her back away from it.... "Not here Maddie.... theres nothin' we can do...." he whispers to her. "don't go getting yourself killed now..... theres nothing we can do."
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There is no great love between Barovians and Gundarakite, mind you, but there is at least three things that they do have in common; a strong, passionate distrust for outlanders; a crippling fear of magic, “the Devil’s gift,” and of course, dread and repulsion for the wretched caliban. Today, there is a sense of urgency on the weathered cobble streets of Vallaki. A restless hum of a hornets nest buzzes from within the mist; stinging whispers that abruptly fade at the first sight of an outlander. Wary eyes in silent angry faces stare as they pass. Then, as they slowly fade back into the fog, the hive begins to buzz, again.
“Unheard of! Outrageous! Who coul’ even imagine such a thing, let alone go through wit’ it!? A filthy nest of caliban given a truce by the Guard! I did nay believe a word of it, none of us did! How coul’ anyone in their righ’ mind entertain such foolish fancies?! But then I heard it a second time, then a third time, an’ then…..”
The two elderly widows grow quiet, swatting at horseflies as a stubby legged dwarf waddles past. He passes into the morning fog before they resume.
“Nothn’ but evil can com’ from this. Shame! Disgraceful! Naïve foolishness! The Guard aint like they useta’ be, when common sense ruled the day. Wha’ they do! Let an’ outlanda take the reigns of the Guard?!”
Both women shook their heads and clicked their tongues in disapproval and shock.
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Word spreads of the Guards valliant deeds. Jojan the Monster, a Caliban Witch, was captured by the Guards finest, and burned today, in the Market District! Peasants and outlanders alike cheered at the killer. Some folks even went so far as to pee on the burning body including (allegedly) Mila, an outlander, and Jimmy, a Fae, going so far to celebrate there joy as to do so in public.
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Notices outside the Broken Bell and on the announcement boards are seen.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/perfomers.gif)
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Rumors circulate that a young woman named Evelin has gone missing. Her only family, a small time merchant, places a reward for any information concerning his beautiful and beloved daughter.
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Rumors pass among the peasantry and merchant class that the Outlander smith known as Daev is seeking men and women of noble heart, it is said he is seeking to create some sort of order of those who would join him.
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There are whispers on the street that the smith Dorin Dolsborn carries a one of a kind steel longsword coated with silver. Word is the smith will also pay well for Coal Ore, Silver Ore and Silver Ingots.
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A rumour starts circulating of a second, much shorter, and hairier, smith's recent display of another such silver and steel blade. Word is that the dwarf is looking to expand on his gilding skills at the soonest opportunity, but that at present he does not appear to be willing to sell any silvered blades. No mention has been made, yet, of a willingness to pay for supplies to further his aims.
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*left at the Broken Bell*
A simple but well written letter is left for Mr. Armand Lebathe at the desk.
Dear Mr. Lebarthe
After having been reccomened to seek you by our mutual freind, an elderly cleric fond of garlic (whose name escapes me at the moment), I decided it would be best to write you. My name is Katalyn Schoppen, I am a minstrel and singer formally trained in the Bardic Hall of Harmonia, Katarkass. As I understand it, you manage the Broken Bell Theatre and I would enjoy the opportunity to work out some sort of performance date.
Cordially,
Katalyn Schoppen
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A number of odd chalk drawins have appeard on many of the walls of the houses, oftern new ones going up as soon as the old ones are washed off. Some give rough drawings of a Vardo with a guard puppet on his hand, the others seem to show Jerovich in a bed with Jimmy and Julia. Locals are puzzled by exactly why these are being put and, some simply find them ammusing and other walk past quicky with their heads lowerds so as not to assocaited with them
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[Some wonder how much talent the rebelious artist had to recreate such vivid portraits]
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(http://www.everythingfancy.com/secretlibrary/guardvardo.jpg)
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nice!
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(( :lol: Nice. Sorry for the OOC. That was neat though. :P ))
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Dozens of Gundarakites Families flock from all corners of the Slums and market district, answering the call to Register at the Citadel, fear and confusion in the eyes of most, anger and despair...
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Rumors amongst the paesantry mention Outlander guards torturing Vallaki's own, they speak of Outlanders being hired to decapitate citizens, few are skeptical, but many remember back when Vallaki was blood-run, signs of times changing, some speak of complete disconnection between them and "Us".
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Rumors among the Merchant class and Tradesman have it that Lord Vincent von Zeklos is hiring skilled laborers for a grand project. This raises some eyebrows at first, given this is a time of war with Invidia. Where would the gold come from for such a project of expense? Those fortunate enough to be hired on would likely make enough coin to provide for their families for some time. When it is later learned that the laborers are being hired to resurrect the Keep's private Chapel, the answer is clear; The Gold has come from the Ezrites.
(http://content.cdlib.org/xtf/data/13030/1h/ft4199n91h/figures/ft4199n91h_00149.gif)
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A few Notices make their appearance around the Market district...
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/perfomers.gif)
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As folks wander near the bulletin board in the market square, they will notice a rather artfully drawn picture of a man attached to it. The figure appears to be laying face down on a wood floor for some inexplicable reason with colorful flowers arranged neatly in his hair. Any one familiar with Vino Snyders will notice a remarkable resemblance almost instantly.
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A Stern young Barovian man with a wicked scar on his face, and a tightly buckled longsword visits the Broken Bell inn. He leaves with the Bartender a simple letter for the owner.
Dear Sir,
My name is Dragomir Katzinkaly. I am a veteran of three years of Gaurd Service as well as service with distinction in two major engagements during the Invidian war. I have noticed that despite your establishments proximity to sewer holes and alleys, and despite the presence of wicked beasties at night, your inn has no protection. The Broken Bell has a full detail of City Guard, and that hole the Ladies Rest even has a stout bouncer. I would suggest myself for some sort of security/bouncer posistion, to work in your establishment and keep it safe when the City Guard fear to tread. I am no stranger to fighting the beasts of the Night, and I have personal incentive to protect your inn- I will not run off at the first sign of true danger like some death shy mercenary. I come fitted with my own gear and supplies, and wages are highly negotiable. If your interested, I'll be in touch.
Signed,
Dragomir Katzinkaly
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A small scealed letter can be found under the Door of the Red Vardo Services.
Dear friends,
I have a business and need of your services, please send someone at the Broken Bell,
Armand LeBarthe.
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*a note left at the entrance of the Broken Bell's theatre*
Mr. LeBarthe, my agents have been five times to the Broken Bell to speak with you. The barman has told us you've been out each of those times. When you return and still desire to meet us, please leave us a new message at our store. Thank you.
Danielle Escher
Red Vardo Traders
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(http://www.sandlotscience.com/PaypalStore/images/SLS02105.jpg)
“Name be Marrok. Leas’ tha’ wha’ I heard from Bianca at the Market this mornin’” said an elderly woman to two neighbors.
“Marrok? Wha’ sorta outlanda’ name be tha?” replied one neighbor.
“Not as strange as some of them outlanda’ names” replied the other. They all nodded in agreement.
“She said her brotha’ Bela was at the Citadel when that murderous Blood Witch was brought in” said the elderly woman.
The three women clicked their tongues and shook their heads in unison.
“Said this Blood Witch was fey, an’ a mother of caliban livin’ in the sewers. The Demon’s gift mus’ hav’ corroded her noggin from the inside, ta’ go murderin’ all the Count’s people, wit’ no regard to nothin.”
They stood brooding quietly until one neighbor said “Ya’ mean to tell me tha’ an outlanda’ done somethin’ good for once?”
The three old ladies chuckled then grew abruptly quiet as a dwarf waddled past, all three narrowing their eyes at the dwarf until he faded into the foggy distance.
After the dwarf was out of ear shot, the elder women went on. “Outlanda’ or no, truth be told tha’ if tha’ Blood Witch was still stalkin’ ‘bout, they’d run out of room at the graveyard.”
The three old women clicked their tongues sadly and shook their heads.
“Already have two funerals today ta’ attend, then tomorrow promised ta’ help wit’ my Sister’s boy’s funeral, then the day afta….”
The women talked for some time, until a bell tolled in the misty village, signifying the beginning of yet another funeral to make way to in the aftermath of the Blood Witch’s rampage.
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Word here and there slips that Wealthy Outlander LeBarthe had taken a commited interest in those that gave the valiant citizens of Vallaki their peace of mind...word slips about a handsome personal reward...
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Rumors of an Angry Mob gathering in front of the Broken Bell as Fey entered the Establishment...Peasants alike Witnessed one of the Tenants of the Establishment, Armand LeBarthe, as he chased Out the Fey Scum from the Broken Bell....
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/fey.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/fey2.jpg)
And some shouted...
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/fey3.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/fey4.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/fey4-1.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g247/Morefizzle/fey6.jpg)
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The following notice can be found posted in each district.
Citizens of Vallaki ! Fear no more, the dread Shadow Fey will no longer haunt our people and steal innocent maidens shadows. The foul demon has been killed by Vallki's finest. Rest safely in your beds knowing that you are under the tireless protection of the Vallaki guard, who will stop at nothing to ensure Order and Safety for all citizens.
Long Live The Count !
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Few posters are well placed around the Market District and on its notice board.
The Red Vardo Traders
In Cooperation with
The Broken Bell Theatre,
Are Proud to Present,
The One,
The Only,
The Magnificent,
The Master,
He who has Sold Record numbers Of His Masterpieces throughout the Core,
André Bellamont!
(http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g25/Styr/AndresBellamont2.jpg)
Come and Assist a Reading People will talk throughout the ages!
[The Posters End with The Day of the event: OOC This Sunday]
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An outlander wearing black robes was standing in the middlle of the street, talking and arguing, apperently to himself. After a few minutes he disappeared into an alley.
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Rumours spread quickly of a man found hung from the tree in the market district. Carved into the tree were the words 'No more flies.' It is widely believed the man, known now as Mad Dmitry, was clearly insane. The locals direct alot of sorrow towards his wife, now a widow, who has locked herself in her home for the last few days.
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A brand new mail box is placed beside the door of the Red Vardo store, the box is made of steel with a steel lock and bolted to the stone wall. And the inscription reads.
Please post here your requests.
// PM me
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Under the eyes of many merchants and peasants, Ciprian Murnu was whipped brutally for selling illegal Van Richten tomes. Some speculate about the woman that helped him get on his feet, some utter that it was none other than Tereza Murnu, his daughter. The broken man was led to the Red Vardo services building, where he surely got his wounds tended.
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[Ciprian Murnu gave a speech in front of many Outlanders and locals gathered.]
"Now that you all here gathered! I want to clean my name! It's come to my attention that certain Outlanders have been trying to sell me illegal books under false covers! I want it to be Clear that I, Ciprian Murnu, run a clean business and will /never/ buy illegal books, from anyone, nor will they be sold for that matter! And this is the truth! No book or illegal content has ever been bought by me, Ciprian Murnu, those that try to sell me these books, I will report to the authorities!
And for that matter, I will subject myself to dutiful inspections by the Vallaki guard and prove that I, Ciprian Murnu ain' holding such tings in my inventory! I blame the Outlander! Try to pass Barovian enquirer farces and selling these books with changed covers to me!
[OOC: Try not to sell Van richten books to Murnu, unless with DM presence. Same as buying.]
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A caravan of goods arrive to Vallaki from the Village and a young child runs up to the message board, they laugh as his brother climbs up his shoulders to hang up a small sheet of paper.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v282/Feles/Advertisement.jpg)
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*a small note, partially abscured by the boards blocking it, is pinned to the doorway of Simions scribe and quill*
(http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/8897/rosacrucifus.png)
I reject hereby the shackles of avarice and pride.
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*a small note, partially abscured by the boards blocking it, is pinned to the doorway of La Bibliotheque Umbragee*
(http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/8897/rosacrucifus.png)
I reject hereby the tyrrany of ignorance for the freedom of knowledge.
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Rumors about the return of old woman Wasiweska starts to flourish. She's been seen peddling her potions, telling fortunes, curing the ill and giving general advice to whomever seeks her out. Some say you're best to stay well away from her as she wields strange powers and even a sullen look can set her off. Others claim she's just a nice old woman that cured their children from illness and wouldn't even accept payment.
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"I beg your pardon, sir. Is Sir Daev Androcus, knight of the crown, known to you?"
By the sound of the voice under the winged helmet that he never seems to take off, it is an outlander man in his early 20s who is seen repeatedly in the market district lately. The simple, brown soldier's cloak and the tabbard featuring a crest consisting of a single sword allow only short impressions of the heavily decorated plate mail beneath. At any time, he keeps a polished tower shield at hand.
"I would be thankful if you would give me a direction of where to find him or tell him that Einar Falkensang, squire of the crown and in service of the order of the sword wants to talk to him. *sigh* allright, Einar Falkensang of the solamnic knights then. Can you remember that?" Those words are several times accompanied by a hand full of coins - that would be the main reason for remembering the outlander.
A few days later, he still speaks of the knight Daev Androcus, but as well of the master smithy Daev Androcus.
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Rumor has it that the infamous "Rat Prince", the halfling nueri, was executed in the middle of the day, deemed a 'mercy killing' by Lance-Corporal Elton Marlbroke, who acted as the executioner.
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[Written in a rough balok scrawl in black ink and posted on the door of the Red Vardo Office]
Domna Vadim...
I have been sent to speak with you regarding an unfinished task.
I wish to meet with you in doi days after sunset in your office.
[Signed only with a scrawled A]
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Rumors go around that Denisa Salicka was escorted to the Citadel and passed through the streets of Vallaki. They speak of the humiliation she was receiving as she walked to the citadel. Some Say she was naked as she got dragged to the citadel. Yet others say that she wore some clothing. All state that the traitor denisa salicka was escorted to the citadel to receive what ever treatment the garda had in store for her there.
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Chatter is rife in Vallakais market district as the red vardo unveil their newly opened service centre.
Apparently the innovative and convenient new store is run by Eliza Chirila, the former waitress and theatre manager of the Broken Bell!
Already a few barovian men are seen passing by the building more often than is really required in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the formerly missing beauty.
Approving murmurs are heard regarding the vardo finally employing more upstanding barovian citizens, credit grudgingly falling at the feet of Captain Suzannah Murphy.
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A procession of weeping and sadness was seen leading from the church of Ezra towards the outskirts carrying the coffins so that they may be buried in the graveyard was seen passing through the market district.
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[Crude drawings begin to Surface around the Market district. The vulgar representation of a Rokuman male, given horns of Iadul, with a few notes handwriten in Balok: "Gregori Iorgovan loves Gokudo and serves the Lizard King, Vasile."]
(http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs17/i/2007/162/3/c/Uncle_by_ManiaXdesAI.jpg)
Humiliation and contempt. Words that describe the recent decision on the lips of guards, as announced by Vladimir Ionelus, who put Gregori Iorgovan in the hot seat, attributing him the decision of allowing outlanders back into the guard. The wisest can see the political game the Burgomaster's heir agile move created.
Several men speak in private, some are asked about the subject of Outlander Shinzo in the guard, many speak of of the softer hand and direction, Nicolai Ionelus is giving to Vallaki. The nomination of The Old Wardog as honor guard and his recent decision to allow outlanders in the guard fuels the perceptions that The Old Wardog and Old Ionelus are past their time. Slander and spitting in denial coming from the men in service is common occurance, the unwelcoming atmosphere of oppression is made felt.
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A man in camouflaged green and brown leathers strolls past the Wanted sign, stopping momentarily to pull his hood back a bit, he reads, before speaking to himself, any nearby might hear him..
1000 Fangs? [Blinking at one of the notices, oddly, looking behind himself once.] Something needs change, these bounties aren't worth it anymore..
[Grunting annoyed, the figure sets off towards the Bounty Hunter Office, or past it, he seems to disappear from sight as he turns the corner..]
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Massacre at the Broken Bell Tavern
As off duty Vallaki Militia and Guards enjoyed the hospitality of the barovian tavern, a massive explosion erupted through the lower tavern room. Several Garda and Militia lay dead. The tavern has been closed by the Vallaki Guard pending the investigation.
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A very angered man dressed in the clothing of the fifth cult of Ezra can be seen glaring upon the Broken Bell who been attacked
Those...damn! By Ezra! Thank you for saving me from this event...Where to rest now in this damn land! Damnity!
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A stylishly dressed young man, somewhat known as a music performer at the Broken Bell and elsewhere, can be seen stopping outside of the bombed tavern a day after the explosion bearing white roses with tinges of red on the tips of the petals. His eyes darken upon his arrival, and after a long moment he sets the roses down before the tavern and walks off.
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A big and rude vos man asks to the merchants:
Did whore die?
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Captain Kaleb has been seen around the area, asking questions about the explosion.
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Music seems to be heard in the streets around the market district of Vallaki. A young barovian woman is often encountered playing music. Sometimes she sings, other times she plays a lute or a violin but regardless music does flow from the area. When Old Night comes to reign in terror she and her music move indoors to the broken bell inn.
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Words seem to have been carved into the door of the Broken Bell's door in Luktar tongue reading "Dawn will come! Gundark's day will come!". Also one might see that the words "Dawn will come!" in luktar have been appearing every so often along the streets and down the alleys.
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A body of one of the Garda and a Barovian Peasant man was found in the Market District just before you enter the Warehouse District. The garda was killed, by several accurate and deadly cuts from an edged weapon. One with a trained eye, such as a Doctor or Soldier, could tell that it was a slender blade and a wider blade that did the deed.
The Barovian peasant had the look of absolute terror on his face with wide bulging eyes and gaping mouth open in a scream. The wounds seem shallow, as if done with a small blade, and while well placed, to the trained eye of a doctor or soldier, they themselves should not have been fatal. Yet the man is very dead and whatever kiled left the frozen visage of the horrible death upon the mans pale and haggard face.
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A stranger, dressed in dark colours can be seen lurking in and around the Broken Bell Inn, clearly trying to keep his identity a secret from nearby onlookers. Much of his days are spent sitting in a corner of the Inn. At night hes nowhere to be found.
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Peasants coming to the market or to have a drink in the tavern complain about a few missing goats and cows. Mostly from the Western farms. The Ostevik's had a calf missing as well. They quickly stated the predators grew bold closing to the city even though everyone herds the animals inside the barns at night
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Peasants and common folks near the market and in the Broken bell, talking about missing livestock. The scourge effects mostly the farmsteads by the foot of the Balinoks, there's not a day the Ostevik's not missing a few goose or chicken. And even though they lock the livestock into the barn at night, lately claw marks of a bear can be seen on the thick oaken gate.
Also the bee hives of Bervis were assaulted by a bear, finding the sweet honey a delicate desert.
People murmur that the cause of this newfound trouble must be those barbaric hordes that roam the Balinoks as of late terrorizing Kroftburg, and so hungry bears wandering down the slopes to find some food. Yet, as people talk they state, how this all strange as bears are usually omnivorous, and only on a very rare occasion they attack living prey, not to mention drawing so close to farms. Attack of men is even more uncommon from a bear, as they usually avoid travellers.
Complaining about the price of the cheese raising as the favored goat cheese of Kroftburg have difficulties to reach Vallaki lately.
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"Yesterday, the man known as Purist was publicly humiliated at the market square. Shackled and naked, the cultist was forced to kneel and watch as the guard Vasile would crush an amulet, object that was reportedly used by the filthy cultist. It's said that Vasile would empty his bottle of alcohol upon the man, and that Vasile threatened him with a torch. Gossipers claim that the man kept suicidal stubborness behaviour about the humiliation and the threat of painful death. The cultist was then escorted toward the Slums' District."
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"Rumor has it that two men were leaving the Red Vardos' trading building in town carrying to two hefty boxes. One had fairly sharp ears and the other was a bit tall. They seemed to travel together as they left."
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Rumor spreads of the tormented spirit appearing in the streets of the Market District. The spirit appeared hungry for violence as it moved between the alley ways... The following morning, the mutilated corpse of a street urchin was found down a narrow alley way. The corpse had a black stone in its eye and it's throat was cut wide. His body appeared a sickly green and was covered in wrinkles as if the moisture was drained from him by some very dark negative energy. Near the alley way where he was killed, there was a bloody hand print smeared on the wall. Drawn inn the palm of the hand was a circle with a vertical line through it...
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Rumor spreads of the tormented spirit appearing in the streets of the Market District. The spirit appeared hungry for violence as it moved between the alley ways... The following morning, the mutilated corpse of a street urchin was found down a narrow alley way. The corpse had a black stone in its eye and it's throat was cut wide. His body appeared a sickly green and was covered in wrinkles as if the moisture was drained from him by some very dark negative energy. Near the alley way where he was killed, there was a bloody hand print smeared on the wall. Drawn inn the palm of the hand was a circle with a vertical line through it...
The following evening another, dimmer, green glow is seen in the area, but no misfortune occurs that night.
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The relative peace of night was shattered by the sounds of fighting coming from the Red Vardo Services. Hunched and warped shapes of caliban could be seen flitting from the shadows as they assaulted the building and the lick of flames flashed briefly inside. Screams of dying womb-freaks rang out and come dawn, armed members of the organisation were to be seen charging into the Broken Bell. They left, carrying the limp form of Sergiu Popovici towards Tigans....
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Of late the services building of the Red Vardo Traders has seen more habitation with the midnight oil burning well into the dawn as people come and go to buy, sell, commission, chat or simply drink their bar dry. It's clear however, from the way its members are continously under arms and in battledress, that they are expecting more than just customers...
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In the morning a Guard Patrol stumbled upon the crushed and broken body of homeless girl. Shoved away in the backalley forgotten, unloved and dead. Her small fragile form bearing the evidence of a all to familiar neck wound. Her corpse drained of even its last drop of her life's blood.
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The peace and sanctity of a new dawn was broken by a tumultuous explosion that ripped through the market square. The resulting conflagration destroyed the statue of the illustrious Strahd Von Zarovich I, father of Barovia and caused untold damage across the district. More worryingly the sounds of steel clashing could be heard ringing in the morning air as swarms of garda poured into the market square, aided by two black-clad individuals, to fight hand to hand with a force of Gundarakite rebels. In the ugly light of a new day, the cobbles were awash with blood both Barovian and Gundar...
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Today as workers and garda watched a half-vistani blooded man wearing the garb of the morninglord was seen with an ox and several large bags dropping off ready to use oak and beech planks of wood for the use of rebuilding. A passing local when asking his name simply stated Warn Windwill he was then see leaving out the district to the warehouse where workers there were soon to see him at work moving boxes in the warehouse.
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Whispers goes that an Officer of the Garda was attacked right before nightfall. It is told that he in the encounter lost his finger to a hungry caliban.
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[Recently notices in Luktar have been found along the street of the market district]
On your feet, Gundarkites, homeland calls!
The time is here, now or never!
Shall we stay slaves or be free?
This is the question, answer me!
By the Dawn
We vow,
We vow, that we won't be slaves
Any longer!
Gundark szabadság!
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[Corporal Petrovic is seen in the streets as he orders Garda to collect the all the notes]
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Recently, as the locals of Vallaki have wandered in the morrow to the Market District - whether merchant occupying his stall, member of the Garda taking his post or simply an outlander passing by, an unusual sight would accompany this part of Vallaki.
A few Red Vardo guards situated at the main door to their Services building - more arrived later in the day. It would seem as if a decimated body of a child and a pool of blood 'decorated' the entrance to the building.
The members of the Red Vardo Traders who were there spoke in a hushed tone, whispers only. It did not take them long to get inside - along with all that was in the morning.
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what started out as mere sighting and rumors, has gripped the people with fear. A young boy, a recently wedded couple, and the decapitation of a Father of two children have the local Garda baffled. The sightings of "The Gray lady" persist among the populace, as the locals lock and board their windows and doors. Extra care seems to be given to windows on the second story floors...
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As spring broke, a new stall has been opening infrequently in the market square. A Young barovian woman, garbed in widow's black. Is seen selling paintings when the weather does not threaten to ruin her wares.
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Lady Gaelia Wachter-Ionelus was seen shopping with her retainers this morning in the Market District of Vallaki. The noblewoman wore two blackened eyes as a badge of honor. Long have the rumors of her abusive husband, The General circulated. Despite the abuse Lady Gaelia retains all the grace and dignity befitting her Wachter bloodline.
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[Painstakingly hand written copies of this handbill appear in taverns, and around the markets in Vallaki]
(http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/yield2d/heed_zps37389afc.jpg)
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[Painstakingly hand written copies of this handbill appear in taverns, and around the markets in Vallaki]
(http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/yield2d/heed_zps37389afc.jpg)
[A not-so-anonymous man in green and white has been plucking these down occasionally, crumpling them up and dropping them in trash barrels as he finds them. Ones left in inconspicuous places would be left mostly untouched.]
"Vallaki should really get some laws about literature on their walls. This is ridiculous."
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<Guards on sight remove these posters, anywhere they are found on their patrols.>
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[Gossip is spread on the streets of Vallaki concerning the unusual spectacle put on by the Vallaki Garda in the Market District - Mother Lizuca and one of her 'sun cultists', a Gundarakite woman named Rebeka, were publicly punished for their part in aiding a womb-freak. The garda administering the punishment used what appeared to be a scourge of some kind, giving forty lashes to Rebeka and sixty lashes to Lizuca herself. The metal barbs on the weapon used tore at the flesh, rendering the sight an unpleasant one to behold...
They say that two peculiar visitors made their way to the center of the market that day. The first was Father Ilie, who was distraught over his adoptive daughter receiving punishment. They say that a Dilisnya cultist, taking joy in watching a 'heathen' get punished for offering aid to the 'Legions of the Night', held Father Ilie and forced him to watch Lizuca be flayed, and then suffer as she hung from the pole, the humid summer day drawing a swarm of insects to both her and the other 'sun cultist'.
The second visitor was a witch who caused chaos with her dark magics, attempting to hide those being punished from sight and harnessing the power of Iadul to send tortured spirits from its depths at the crowd. The witch was chased off, but the garda held no interest in sticking around to find out for sure, and thus let both women go. They were led by Father Ilie to the Sanctuary of the Eternal Dawn in the slums...]
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A Gundarakite has been spotted in the market square every morning at sunrise banging on the door of the Red Vardo Services.
He waits for up to an hour, smoking an old pipe in the morning sun before going about his business.
The local vendors in the square say he wares an old hat with a crest of dark green cockerel feathers in the band.
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Gossip spreading around through the stalls of the Market District of Vallaki tells rumor that the Red Vardo Services building has recently been occupied, and appears to be under new management.
A bevy of equipment and food supplies has been coming and going into the shop at the direction of a Halfling sporting a gold-plated hand and leg.
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[Rumor spreads that the peasants living within Vallaki and without are in a state of unrest. At the center of this unrest is Cornlieu Stroescu, a seller of fine produce frequently seen in the Market District. He claims that he saw one of the Dilisnya cultists kill a man with but a word, and insinuates that their ilk have likely sworn pacts with diabolic entities from Iadul itself.
He claims to have seen this during the flogging of a woman by the name of Tarja, performed by the Garda, and insinuates nothing has been done due to the burgomaster's son being a cultist himself.
Peasants also speak of witches making others disappear without a trace, of men spewing fire from their mouths like a demon would, and of twists sporting rows of scales, instead of flesh. There is confusion and panic in the air, and the peasants are being whipped up into a furor, a furor driven the Barovian fear of the unknown...]
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Rumor spreads quickly that a large transport of grain is planned from the distant country of Dementlieu. Weather is true or not, nobody knows.
//OOC: i leave it to the dms to post people reaction to this
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Freak snow storms during the summer months have ruined fields and destroyed crops. Supplies have been drained to dangerously low levels. Price of grain and vegetables rise as demand and supply reflect the need of hungry mouths and empty bellies.
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Rage! Riot! The people of Vallaki's hinterlands converged on the city, many have left their country homes to crowd into the hovels of their urban relatives - all as part of some plan. Under the guidance of Corneliu Stroescu, a witness to the madness of the 'Market Day Massacre' and before the famine a provider of fruits and vegetables. Incensed about any overt attempt by the Ionelus family to address this matter, his horde called upon that family to talk with them.
Garda had attempted to disperse and even threaten them away.. but the people did not have it, swarming them and ensuring that they would act as their messengers, even going so far to strike at them for their threats to show their seriousness. Stroescu has vowed that the serfs will not return to their homes, sheltered by their cousins and friends in the city, until Ionelus fixes this. The lack of fear that the people show of repressive means - and an organized, temporary (as well as non-violent) siege of the citadel's exit ways - shows just what this could become.
Hopefully all will be dealt with before Vallaki is a city of starved men, unable to pay the count's taxes...
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Early in the morning, the Akiri priestess known as Tali Ubaid was seen leaving baskets of dried meat and blankets made from the furs of the animals she hunted herself at the base of the statue of Strahd, knowing that any little bit would help in such a dire time.
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[The following notices can be found at the market district of Vallaki. The text appears rather messy, seemingly written with fingertips and red fluid resembling blood.]
Barovian pigs, you will pay in blood for your oppression towards people of Gundarak. It is your turn to suffer now, like we have. Victory will come through the flames of powder.
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[Those familiar with Bianca Cardei, can see her dragging a large dead grizzly bear threw the city and to the marketplace. She seems to have it on a type of gurney that she can pull with ease. It drips with fresh blood and she delivers it to the butcher in the market place where he can cut the bear and distribute the meat. It seems some bellies might be full today. No one can know how she killed such an animal but there are multiple arrow wounds on the creatures head and eyes and kidneys. One can assume she's a good shot with a bow.]
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[Stroescu and his band have not yet left the district, still waiting on a messenger from the Ionelus family. The bear meat feast certainly has tided them over, but it is only a bandage over a festering wound...]
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[In the early morning, there is a sound of fighting and spell slinging just as the sun was rising. Blood litters the middle of the crossroads between the citadel and the market and a body looks like it had been dragged and carried off. No other signs other than this were made.]
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The following bloodied notice has been left, although including additional text on itself.
[The following notices can be found at the market district of Vallaki. The text appears rather messy, seemingly written with fingertips and red fluid resembling blood.]
Barovian pigs, you will pay in blood for your oppression towards people of Gundarak. It is your turn to suffer now, like we have. Victory will come through the flames of powder.
Run and flee while you can. One is down, more will follow.
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[The market of Vallaki practically erupts, overnight. Corneliu Stroescu tells everyone of what happened the previous day - a pair of Vallaki Garda arriving to trash his stall and spill over the stew feeding many of those protesting the actions of those in the Citadel.]
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[Parchments painstakingly written by hand over and over are left in the Slums and Market districts.]
(http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g138/yield2d/BlankScrollonRedSmall_zpsc122dc5a.jpg)
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Some 30 people have taken up in homes and the Broken Bell Inn this evening, all of them serfs from the Village of Barovia. They tell tales, share stories, and sup well despite there being little food in Vallaki due to the news they bring - the Benevolent Vanda Atanasius has sent grain and other futter to Vallaki. Others tell stories of Her emissary that arranged the deal, the Poisoner Nathaniel Byrne...
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Those attending the stalls of Vallaki's Market Square bear witness to a large supply of tightly-sealed crates being moved into the Red Vardo Services Building. The boxes, labeled "FRAGILE", are carried not their usual warehouse workers, but by a stern looking group of armed men and women dressed in red and black.
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After nearly two months of silence since his appointment the Burgomaster Svari Ionelus has made a decree, that there would be a court held and the formation of some council. To get this message (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=38953.msg492085#msg492085) across criers are hired to belt it out all about the city.
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Small talk from the local merchants amongst themselves and other locals speak of small amounts of food being stolen from their stands occasionally, a few mention seeing a black hooded and dirty figure fleeing when caught a few times.
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A rare sentiment of pride for being Barovian and a general excited attitude captivates the whole of the city after the confirmation of rumors (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=38953.msg504281#msg504281) that a Dilisnya has been captured here in Vallaki and is slated to be given the Count's justice. What a strange time for the Grey City and unfortunate time for this Vigo Miserati...
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[Rumors spread of extra guards posted inside the Broken Bell, and around the Drowned Rat. Few know the reason why, however.]
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Great excitement and preparations are already underway for tomorrow - the day of celebration (http://[url=http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=38953.msg505774#msg505774) of a great Barovian foe and celebration of the life of a hero - Simeun Radkov...
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Whispers spread along the market place as items begin to disappear from the merchants stalls during the day as crowds pass by talk of ah thief begins to spread through the city.
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[Posters begin to crop up in this area, bearing the seal of the Church of the Lawgiver. (http://www.nwnravenloft.com/forum/index.php?topic=40039.msg514501#new)]
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Some begin to complain as strangers from elsewhere in Western Barovia make their way slowly into the city. The strange ways of these westerners - urbain, rural, poor, and rich - all seem to trigger levels of annoyance from the Vallaki people despite their relative more open ways being a trade town. Only a few more days and they'll all go home...
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In the early morning hours, a bald Citadel officer with a torn cloak and worn uniform limped into the gates of the Citadel alongside some similarly fatigued Vallaki guardsmen in leathers. Rumor has it they returned from across the River Luna.
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In the evening a man in Red Vardo Garb entered the Gaping Wound during the evening. He had later emerged from the smoke-covered building with a drawn weapon in hand ran down the Market streets from the Slums shouting at something in a pursuit accompanied with panicked shouting. Soon after, the streets were once again quiet aside from the sounds of a typical Vallaki evening.
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[Late one night, it's said that a tall outlander knight speaking poor Balok escorted an off duty Garda back to the Citadel. Some say that the knight fended off a great many number of wererats in the Garda's defense, while others add that one or both of them were very intoxicated. Rain washed the blood spilled that night away before dawn,
and after the shouting and and fighting the terrible creatures were done, silence ensured over the streets. The tall knight walked calmly through the town shortly after the gates separating the Citadel from the Market district closed and locked. He seemed troubled, if anyone caught a glimpse of his face.]
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[A few notices advertising the Krofburg Guard have started appearing throughout Vallaki]
(https://i.imgur.com/VThGfY8.jpg)
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As the day grows long over the Market District of Vallaki, the droning of hammer against nail sounds out. Wooden planks groan in protest to their fixturing as sturdy wooden boards are fastened across the threshold to a domicile. The blustery winds swirl and the steady downfall of snowflakes begin to accumulate upon the cobblestones. Carpenters are observed hauling off arm loads of splintered wood and debris once their laboring is concluded. They shuffle off, snow caked upon their woolen clothing and noses rosy from the frigid Barovian chill.
It is unknown what transpired over the course of the recent old noapte and any rumors, even among the most inebriated of tavern patron, seem eerily silent. Some things are better left unvoiced, even in hushed, furtive tones.
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Carnage and chaos erupted on the Old Svalich Road, as dozens of citizens and guard alike were massacred by a massive, furless bat creature in broad daylight.
It was rumored that the beast had roosted itself into a shack, where it was discovered by unnerved citizens that afternoon, after a night of endless shrieking from the skies as Liliacul Negru circled the city with her brood.
After a vicious struggle, the creature was brought down by several Vallaki guards, a trio from the Wayfarer Kinship, along with the Vicar of the local Morninglordian church, and a woman with short cropped hair in furs. Guards ordered onlookers to disperse as they loaded a multitude of corpses onto a pyre wagon in the aftermath.
Black smoke rose from the citadel's courtyard that evening.
(https://i.imgur.com/i1yIElY.jpg)
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The previously empty workshed has seen a flurry of activity as the new tenant works from dusk to dawn to clean it out and prepare it for renewed use.
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A master stonemason and his son recently arrived in Vallaki to find work. The younger man is a dead ringer for Marian Sârbu, albeit tall, broad-shouldered, and brash.
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At the start of the week, a dark-haired man was borne to the Broken Bell Inn in the arms of an armored Ezrite. Two guards were present: one male, one female. The unconscious man's face was swollen and bloodied, and he was as pale as the meat of an almond. Since that time, he has not emerged from his room, though he has been visited every morning by a guardsman.
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The silence of the early morning hours is cut by the unmistakable sound of a Garda horn from the heart of Vallaki. Some minutes later, the second blast of horn disrupts the peace once more, then silence. Blood is found to cling to the worn cobble streets, staining the purity of the fresh snowfall lingering in the shadows of the Citadel gates.
An anchorite of the Church of Ezra was seen carrying a figure wearing the bloodied browns of the Vallaki Garda into the Broken Bell.
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"Fire! Fire!" Twice in as many days the call went up in the Market District. Twice it was the same building afflicted, and twice the Vallaki Garda organised the gawping Outlanders into a bucket-line to save the property. On the first night, a girl, seemingly untouched by the fire was dragged out. On the second.. the building seemed thankfully empty.
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In the recent days, an old man in a tricorne hat has been seen at work in the Market District, near the Red Vardo Traders' Building.
He has been cleaning up the pavement and the walls in front of the building, taking great care in removing moss and any trace of mold from the stonework and woodwork along side with any garbage left nearby.
Later this afternoon, he was seen hammering a set of bronze slender spikers of the type used in keeping pigeons and other birds away, disturbing the quiet of the District with the occasional obscenity when the mallet hit his hand instead of a nail.
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As the first rays of dusk cascade over the cobblestones and ramparts of the Grey City. The Market District of Vallaki is filled with the droning of hammers, sawing of wood, and the distinct sounds of labor fill the streets. The laborers toil, battling the short Barovian days with their construction. Wooden planks groan in protest to their fixtures as sturdy wooden boards are fastened, erected, and carpets are unfurled. Once finished, the procession of laborers shuffle off as their cheeks were rosy from the chilling wind.
Rumors swirled, along with the frigid Barovian breeze, speaking of the upcoming Market Day to be hosted by the Red Vardo Traders, the obvious source of the commotion and industrious construction.
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/347867083511693312/731400038126977084/unknown.png)
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~Gossip circulates that in broad daylight a Vallaki Garda performing his duties was violently driven off by an evidently dangerous outlander clad in chain and helmet. What appeared to be a rather mundane stop quickly escalated with the assailant refusing to acquiesce with the Garda's demands and drawing forth steel instead for battle. After the garda's retreat the suspect disappeared into the woodwork with the assistance of vraja-tonic and life, presumably, continues . .~
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In the dead of a stormy night filled with the blue streak of lighting, some matter of battle broke out in the Market District. Five Gun shots split the night, crackling like thunder. By morning, almost all sign of the struggle is washed away. Only a few scattered arrows remain, lodged into crates and the ground...
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Besides all the wrath of the skies, blaring gunshots and winding arrows, shouting back and forth was heard until the first hours of dawn. Those who were early to take to the stalls found a battered, bloodied and soaked man, staring up towards the statue of Strahd the First. The curious eyes and buzzing gossip sent the man on his way.
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[At night screams ring out only ending in a sickening crunch, Some guards may have reported speaking to there colleagues on the wall only for a Black mass to slam into them on the walls and seconds later one of them was gone, only for the screams to start. Come dawn body of the missing guards could be found around the statue of count strahd with bloody words written for all to see]
"All Dogs to the Devil will be killed, Repent your ways or die"
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~In the twilight hours on a still cold night a sudden series of explosions rocks the Market District. Following there is the frantic battle-rattle of shot and sword, punctuated by loud commands in Luktar. Throughout it all the ground rumbles as if a giant were walking overhead the city. The climactic conclusion is a blast of fire that engulfs the centre-stalls of the district. Some postulate that stoic garda bravely responding to the commotion in the midst of night may be among the wounded; whom numbered heavily on the side of the aggressors. Ultimately the attackers retreated to lick their wounds .. With the coming dawn Barovians cry out in outrage over the attack on their venerated hero's likeness, then cheer - for their hero yet stood. Men flock to the Citadel gates to join the Vallaki Garda reserves, to put an end to the rebellion that dared attack their city.~
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During the dark hours of the night a Black phrase in Luktar appears on the walls
(https://i.imgur.com/c6K4bkcm.png)
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[The familiar Birdhelmed Garda is seen placing up barricades preventing access the dark alleys behind the shops after a scream is heard in the night prior]
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As the dawn breaks, people approaching the offices of the Red Vardo would notice a single word crudely carved into the outer door in large, sloppy letters:
MURDERERS
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With the dawn of a new day, a raucous cacophony of garda horns sound into the air in the Market District of the Grey City. Booted heels sounding on stone resonate as vigilant garda are dispatched to the flurry of commotion that stirs from within the Broken Bell Inn. Rumors, as they often do, grow rampant of the cause of the ruckus and activity as reports of incensed ravings and cursing of the notoriously malcontented proprietor, Igor, spread. The inn, frequented by many a thirsty and weary garda themselves, has been purportedly the victim of vile skullduggery. What, specifically, transpired and who was the culprit remain shrouded in mystery – the details being only the purview of those involved and the investigative guards seeking justice.
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Onlookers in the Merchant District of the Grey City have stirred gossip related to recent sightings of the usually surly Henrica Balan, bartender at the notorious Drowned Rat. The portly woman has been noted being in an uncharacteristically pleasant demeanor perusing various stalls of wares and making numerous purchases. The inexplicable change in disposition and spending habits has raised many a Barovian brow.
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A garda is seen moving around the district erecting signs on the most traveled spots and roads.
NOTICE - SUPPLEMENTARY TAX
In accordance with the wishes of His Excellency, and in light of the ease and plenty that does bless them THE PEOPLE OF VALLAKI are to render unto his servants a SUPPLEMENTARY TAX of THREE HUNDRED WOLF FANG. No man, woman or child of BAROVIAN BIRTH within the bounds of the municipality will be excused from giving unto their LORD his due upon pain of death.
Be it known that there will be no delay tolerated and those who withhold their means beyond the month may draw scrutiny for their failure to share their abundance with their rightful ruler.
⚖️ VALLAKI BOUNTY AND COMMISSIONS OFFICE ⚖️
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a flyer starts blustering around the market district (placed in game)
(https://i.gyazo.com/8a78c2bf532923ce8639ade2585a0414.png)
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The former flyer is set out to replace the old one in various highly trafficked locations as well as a new, supplementary one, in the dead of night for those to find once dawn arrived
(https://i.gyazo.com/00dfdb865f380710674748e6afeae1a8.png)
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A trio of armoured figures are seen patrolling the streets at night, focused at first on the Market District. One is a man carrying a large hammer, with a grey cloak bearing a symbol of white hands bound with red cord. The two women's dark cloaks are instead emblazoned with gauntlets bearing an eye. They do battle rats two-legged and four, although that seems incidental to their patrol.
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A woman is seen standing guard over the south gate to the citadel her gaze focused on the night. A scythe resting on her shoulder ever ready to spring to action, while her Pink and dark grey outfit is a rarity around Barovia.
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A group of shady individuals sweep through the night. Come morning, the statue of the Count greets the market painted with buck teeth, bushy eyebrows, silly facial hair, blush, among other things.
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A mysterious letter is left in front of the Red Vardo Office..
(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/859648698619002882/1128515113176027148/letter3.JPG)
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Outside the store and offices of the Red Vardo Traders, an intriguing sight captures the attention of onlookers. In the sunny alley, individuals wearing red and black attire take turns standing beside a large rug.
Resting atop the rug are shining golden coins, arranged neatly in rows. Periodically, an armed guard collects the coins and carries them into the nearby offices, only to return later with a fresh batch, continuing the curious display.