The party left the icy grip of the mountain behind, descending into the mist-shrouded paths leading north. The journey was silent for a time, the weight of the Amber Temple still fresh in their minds. Their sombre march was interrupted by a sudden rustling in the bushes. Wolves emerged, their growls low and threatening. The party drew their weapons, bracing for the attack. The fight was swift but fierce, with [[Ellette|Ellette]]’s moonblade slicing through the wolves and [[Qwimby|Qwimby]]’s revolver cracking through the mist. [[Morgar Goldgard|Morgar]] unleashed blasts of fire, scattering the remaining creatures. [[Karrut Styk|Karrut]]’s vines entangled the largest wolf, allowing [[Zara Blackwood|Zara]] to strike a finishing blow. With the pack defeated, the group took a moment to catch their breath before continuing on their path. As they approached a crossroads, the party noticed an older woman sitting on a stone wall. Her appearance made them wary at first, but as they drew closer, they saw only a kindly old woman with a warm smile. “Hello, dearies,” she said, her voice gentle. “Would you care for some bread and apples?” The party exchanged glances, their hands never far from their weapons. But the woman’s demeanour was disarming, and eventually, they sat with her, introducing themselves as they ate the simple but welcome meal. “My name is Agatha,” she said. “I’ve just returned from visiting an old friend in Barovia. Now, I’m heading home to Krezk.” At the mention of Krezk, the party became more interested. Agatha explained that she was married to Demetrius, the mayor. “I’m sorry if he was harsh with you,” she said. “He’s a good man, but he has his burdens.” The party shared stories as they walked, and Agatha spoke fondly of her son. “I’ve been saving this bowtie for him,” she said, holding up a small, neatly wrapped package. Her expression softened. “He died fighting Strahd years ago. But I keep it for him, just in case.” Ireena, walking beside Agatha, looked down, her voice soft. “I was friends with your son. He was brave.” Agatha smiled faintly. “Thank you, dear. That means more than you know.” The party asked Agatha about the tailor in Barovia. She chuckled. “That’s me. My wedding dress is famous, after all. It’s the only one in Barovia.” Her pride in her work was evident, though it was tinged with sorrow. When Agatha asked about their homes, [[Ellette|Ellette]] shared a tale from the Feywild, weaving a story about a legendary battle between the elves and a monstrous creature known as the Elf-Eater. “They tell it to children before bedtime,” she concluded with a faint smile. Agatha clapped her hands. “A wonderful tale. Thank you, my dear.” As the group approached Krezk, unease settled over them. By the town’s walls, they saw Esmeralda slumped against the stones, unconscious. The party drew their weapons, their instincts on high alert. Inside the town, they spotted Demetrius and Strahd engaged in a heated argument in the square. Agatha’s face darkened. “That monster,” she muttered, storming toward them. The party watched in stunned silence as Agatha confronted Strahd directly. “You took my son! You’ve ruined this land!” she shouted. Before anyone could stop her, she slapped Strahd across the face. A collective gasp escaped the party. Strahd’s expression darkened, and with a swift motion, he pushed Agatha with unnatural force. She flew backward, hurtling toward a wall. [[Ellette|Ellette]] reacted instantly, casting _Feather Fall_ to cushion her descent. Agatha landed softly but was visibly shaken. Demetrius roared in anger, charging at Strahd with a raised fist. Strahd caught him effortlessly and flung him into a nearby wall. Demetrius crumpled to the ground, unconscious. Strahd straightened his cloak and looked at the party, his expression unreadable. Without another word, he vanished into the mist. The party quickly gathered Esmeralda, Agatha, and the injured Demetrius, carrying them to Esmeralda’s base. The tension in the air was thick as they laid them down to rest. “We need to be ready,” [[Ellette|Ellette]] said, her voice firm. “Strahd’s pushing harder. He knows we’re a threat.” [[Zara Blackwood|Zara]] nodded, her lute resting on her lap. “We’ll face him. Together.” The party rested for a short reprieve and Healed Demetrius. [[Chapter 78. Price of Redemption]]