Innocence Lost
As the group found places inside the church to rest, unknown to the rest of the group, Vasili and Ireena disappeared during the evening. When the rest of the group awoke, they found both of them gone. The group began a thorough search of the church grounds and could not discover any sign of them.
On their way out, they were greeted just outside by a blushing Ireena and a smiling Vasili holding hands and laughing. Ireena giggled and said they just went out for a walk during the evening, but Thaldir had other suspicions. Ireena shrugged and Vasili apologized and said he meant no harm. He explained that after the events of the night, Ireena simply needed some fresh air and took her out for a stroll around town. After a few moments, Vasili said he must depart on some business and said he would try and return later.
Arasek Stockyard
The group then go back to Arasek Stockyard after being told at the town square about a tiger causing problems near a wagon. Parked at the south end of the stockyard is a sturdy carnival wagon, its colorful paint peeling off. Faded lettering on its sides spells out the words, “Rictavio’s Carnival of Wonders.” A heavy padlock secures the back door.
Upon closer inspection the group found that the sides of the wagon were splattered with dry blood and found an inscription on the wagon’s door frame that read, “I bring you from the Shadow into Light!”
They found the tiger and after speaking to a couple who were responsible for the area, they meet up with Rictavio. He asks if they want to join him as he leaves the town. They agree and he leads them outside the towns gates. They inspect the wagon and discover the Tome of Strahd.
Rictavio then reveals that he is actually none other than the famous monster hunter, Rudolph Van Richten. He waves goodbye and says if they ever have questions to meet him at his tower, but to be careful as he has made sure not just anyone can get in.
