Ag's Diary (18/4/735 - excerpt 1)

Excerpt from the journal of Joybringer Aghub Bazaap, written on the 18th day of the 4th Moon of the Barovian year 735.

After several uneventful days here in Vallaki, I feel that the Mistress of Revels has now set me upon a new path. The strangers I met in the tavern have told me wondrous tales of worlds beyond the sky - and I do not think they are mad. At least, not in that way. The elf is certainly… a strange one. But full of joy, it must be said, and I can find no fault in that. But what have they to do with the designs of the Everchanging Goddess? I believe that they are here, whether they know it or not, to set right a great evil and once again allow joy to flourish in this dark land.

Am I the candle and they the flame? Or is it the other way around? That remains to be seen, but it is clear that their arrival heralds change. Already they have received an invitation to meet with von Zarovich and Our Lady assures me that no harm shall come to them (or to me) merely by accepting this invitation. Even so, I have called upon a local smith to silver my warhammer and I would prefer not to encounter Strahd (or his minions) until that work is complete. But then; what may we discover by visiting the beast in his lair? What secret vulnerabilities does he strive to hide? By the Light of Joy, I will find out!

But for now, we seek a lady, Ireena, with whom my companions have some business that they hope to conclude. A reasonable excuse to delay our meeting with "the devil" (as he is known).