THE TOME OF STRAHD his hand-assembled, aged, leather book hangs (on weighted, steel hinges. Though many pages are brittle and damaged, itis clear that it was penned by Strahd von Zarovich, Lord of [Barovia himself over the course of the many centuries of his life. A brief, intimate introduction gives you the impression that the pages may reveal deep secrets of his long life though they are ‘mostly written in a near incompressible cipher, ‘Wuar 1s CONTAINED HERE? ‘The Tome of Strahd is an ancient text penned by a terribly powerful immortal wizard. This guide serves to make the static lore of Strahd's history into contained short adventures for heroes venturing to slay the vampire lord ‘This guide seeks to elevate the Tome tothe same level or beyond that of the Sunsword and the Holy Symbol of Ravenkind in the party's fight against Strahd, ‘The following adventures are scaled for an adventuring party of 45 that discovers the Tome at level 4 and levels to S ‘upon its discovery. ToME oF SrraHp (ITEM) Wondrous Item, legendary (requires attunement by a spelleaster) ‘Any creature attuned to the Tome has advantage on any checks made to recall information about Barovian history or lore. While atuned to the tome, you gain a +1 toyour AC and, toany saving throws when defending against Strakd von Zarovich’s magic. ‘Acreature attuned to the book may spend 4 hours attempting to decipher new sections of the Tome in order to gain further insight into the lfe of Strahd and the land of Barovia. Deciphering a chapter requires an Intelligence Canvestigation) check and at least 4 hours of dedicated research time, Another creature can assist you in the attempt and grant advantage on the check if they Help, Attempting to decipher the book or offering help in deciphering it reduces your passive perception by 5 for the uration of the 4 hours. ‘The Tome also appears to contain esoteric, magical knowledge akin tothe knowledge contained within a wizard's sspellbook As the secrets and magic contained within are unveiled, you may cast any spells recorded within the Tome as a Ritual Spells. Ifa spell found within does not have a ritual tag, it is nonetheless a ritual spel for you when cast from the book. Once a spell is cast in this way, it cannot be cast from the book again until the following dusk. Ifthe spells of a higher level than the eresture is able to cast, they must succeed on a DCLO + the spel's level, Intelligence (Arcana) check If they fail the spells use for the day is still expended. ee + Once the attuned creature has decided to investigate a chapter, fits successfully decoded she a ecfuly absorbed ino the ages of the bock alongwith anyother centre in 30f. The first chapter has already been decoded and wil absorb the readers instant. + Time moves differently inside the memories of the Tome. Exploring a single chapter takes one hour of time on top of the four hours spent on research and deciphering the text. + Non-magical iter found in a chapter can be brought back. Any magical items taken from the past lose any magical properties if returned. ————————LLLEEE*(]w wy TABLE OF CONTENTS ‘Though the Tome itseif does not have a formal table of contents or reference it is broken in two halves, The halves of the book are divided into two sections: Life and Death, Life. Prologue | Youth Chapter 1 | The Battle of Argynvostholt. 2 Chapter 2 | The Rise of Ravenloft. 4 Chapter 3 | Brothers in ‘Arms. 5 Chapter 4 | Tatyana, 7 Chapter 5 | The Unholy ‘Communion 8 Chapter 6 | Wedding Bells , L Death 13 Chapter 7 | The Corruption of Yestethillconnsinsnsiel3 Chapter 8 | The Heart of the Old Gods. a4 Chapter 9 | The March of the Dawn. 17 Chapter 10 | The Legacy of Vasili von Holt 19 Chapter 11 | Patrina Veikow and the Final Dusk Chapter 12 | A Soul's Return THE INTERIOR With a successful C13 Intelligence (Arcana) check a character can recognize a dispelled Giyph of Warding on the unlocked clasp. This was removed by Rudolph van Richten. ‘When 2 character opens the Tome for the first time after attuning toit, read: You theThe pages flutter open toa blank pai along the spine and mist begins to pour from the tome itself You begin to feel lightheaded. Your vision fides, and from the blackness now surrounding you, mists rll along the ground. You shout, and there is nothing. The mist chokes closer. From the growing cloud, a man clad in a black cloak and a regal, red tunic with 2 stern face and piercing eyes steps toward you withthe grace of aking Your eyes meet his cald glare as it bears down on you, he speaks, PROLOGUE - YOUTH “Tam the Ancient. Iam the Land. My beginnings are lost in the darkness of the past..” This chapter details Strahd's childhood, establishes his, relationship with his father King Baroy, his mother Queen Ravenovia, Rahadin, and Sergei, and lets the characters. ‘meet the boy who would go on to become the Devil The visage ofthe man dsperses into a black and red cloud before entirely vanishing and reforming into a young boy no colder than 12, with asmall sword at bis side and tears streaming down bis cheeks. The mist recedes further, revealing a glorious, well-adorned, and sunlit castle courtyard The low buzz of insects and humidity Bring back lovely ‘memories of summer. Hanging high above you ae red banners raped over towering ramparts that depict the same raven {iconography cast in metal on the front of the book you've just opened The boy that stood before you moments ago now sits atop a small set of stairs leading to a wooden door. From within you can hear distant but boisterous laughter. ‘THE Party's INVOLVEMENT ‘The characters are ina faraway land. A kingdom rsised long before the country of Barovia was founded. They are in Straha’s childhood home, just after Strahd has completed a training session with his father's advisor, Rahadin, ‘Tue Courrvarp ‘The courtyard is walled.n on four sides with 30f tall stone walls. There are 10 tall wooden double doors set on the ‘east, south, and west walls. On the other side of these doors are simply clouds of mist. Any adventurers attmepting to exit through these doors are met with the same fate as they ‘would entering Barovian mists. ‘The boy seated on the stairs is a young Strahdl, in the middle of sword training with Rahadin. His father's attendant hhas bested him and is currently reporting back to King Barov. Tur Door Just beyond the nothern door isa small office chamber ‘where Barov is drunkenly boasting of his excitement for his soon-to-be-born son, Sergei and the immense pride has in Sirah. Characters listening atthe door can hear Barov request that Rahadin push Strahd harder and that he will one day be ‘a great leader and leave Baravia in the history books with a ‘DC 14 Wisdom (Perception) check. They also hear Rahadin respond, in turn, informing King Barov that Strahd is stil far too young to lead, that he is brash, foolish, and. overzealous. Tue Boy Anyne speaking tothe boy in a kind manner can learn the following: ‘+ His name is Strahd von Zarovich. ‘+ He is meant to become lord of this castle, and his mother thinks he'll make a great lord. His father believes he might, but he has a lot of work to do. ‘+ He is nervous about living up to his father’s expectations. + His father’s advisor, Rahadin, is his teacher. Hes a difficult teacher, and he pushes too hard sometimes. ‘His mother is pregnant with a boy, Sergei, and his mother says i'l be his job to teach Sergei what he knows, ‘This isthe partys time to speak to Strahd at-will This young version of the Dark Lord will believe the characters are imaginary friends, and, so ong as they do not become hostile, he will kindly speak about anything he knows. After the party has spoken to young Strahd, listened at the door for ‘sometime, or they party attacks the boy, Rahadin steps out ‘nto the stoop and draws his blade, announcing that they will return to training at once, CHAPTER CLOSE ‘The mist closes in and adult Strahd’s voice echoes: ".yet ‘that past now is filled only with regret.” TREASURE ‘The attuned creature now has access to the spell Illusory Script. Combining the shorthand used to inscribe the spell into the book, the text that can now be read clearly from this chapter, and the scrawlings along the diary’s margins, a pattern begins to emerge in the swiling, mysterious symbols fn the following pages. ‘The attuned creature may now begin to study the book and explore further chapters. CHAPTER 1: THE BATTLE OF ARGYNVOSTHOLT “Iwas the warrior, Iwas good and just. I thundered across the land like the wrath of a just god. ‘When Strahd's forces marched on the cold, forested lar nestled between Mount Ghakis and the Baritok Mountain range that would go on to become the kingslom of Barovia, they had litte knowledge of the dedicated Order of the Silver Dragon, [As the von Zarovich forces closed in on the final holdout of the previous kingdom, they climbed the steep mountain roads into the center of the countryside. Iis here they planned their final approach to claim the land once and for all and where Strahd incurred an unrepayable debt to the mysterious Vistani,The characters will operate as lead soldiers during the siege of the castle Contrary to the Curse of Strahd module, this iteration of the story has inchdeda srmall ‘at the base of the hilltat acs to Argyrvosthott called Zmei tis no lorger standing by the stat ofthe adventure but ts ruins may be added to Baroviaif you wish the characters to recognize it [As the mists gather once more, read: The mist coalesces into the dusk elf you saw inthe previous chapter, not aged a dy. The shadows and colors swirl around you and ou find yourselves now standing aa large tent. The chatter of voices andthe clanking of metal flows from outside its walls. The tnt's primary oceupant i acolossal rectangular {able stop which s carved an intricate, scale map of the lands 0f Barova Its mountains climb to nearly S/n the ar, and it's valleys snk int the tbletopA voice directly to your right, orders: “Commander Gnilyn, the table is yours" The order was delivered bya mann his eal thirties with jet black har, well manicured and kept. His now stern fae is failar to you He doesnot appear o dissimilar toa young boy you met at bis home one summer afternoon, yet now be stands clad in scarlet and gold armor adored with angelic feathers etched in gold eat ‘THE Party's INVOLVEMENT The characters now find themselves standing ata table with Strahd and two of his closest advisors—Rahadin and Aleksandra Gwilym, The two are mounting an offensive to remove the Order ofthe Silver Dragon. ‘As the army marches on, the party ean elect which commander they would lie to report to and ultimately the role they will play in the batlte ahead. ‘THe War Tent The tent stands 20ft around and 12f tall The enormous, table depicting the geography of Barovia isa slightly rectangular table that takes up a 1Oft by 8ft rectangle at the center. Around the edges of the tent are scattered chairs, Any character who spends time to reveiw the table and suce succeeds on a DC16 Intelligence (History) check can discern the location of Argynvostholt and the village of Berez tolater add to their own map, If the characters inquire further about the plan of attack, the commanders will detail the assualt and refer to each of the characters as "Licutenant” for the duration af the THE PLAN OF ATTACK Lord Strahd, Commander Gwilym, and Commander Rabadin ‘wil all share with the characters the following + The Order ofthe Silver Dragon is proud and plans to fight rather than be starved out oftheir castle. + The castle itself sits high on a cliff overlooking a valley, and the knights will have no where to go but toward toward the village. ‘+ The people of Zmei are commoners who will not stand in the way, and we will do what we can to ensure no harm ‘comes to them, + The Lord General Strahd will hold the rear of the forces from the village of Zmei, + Commander Rahadin will hold the base ofthe hill and ‘monitor the treeline to protect ensure we are not routed. * Commander Gwilym will ride up the hill to the castle to challenge the remaining forces. ‘The characters may elect to defend Strahd at the backline or follow either Rahadin or Aleksandra into battle as the army marches the following day. le ty, If the characters choose to split up (as they are wont to do) adjust the following encounter(s) accordingly ‘Tue BATTLEFIELD When the characters have decided how they wish to procede and have done all they wish to do in the War Tent read: The chatter and conversational tones of the camp build to 2 roar. You blink and are now standing in the midst of a small village, ablaze. Dozens of soldiers adorned with ravens are locked in combat against knight in silver and blue armor. Strahd sits atop a stocky, black mare, points his blade forward and shouts “Advance!” As he does so, a javelin strikes his side and be is knocked to the ground Ahead of you, you see Rahadin and Alek galloping off toward their posts, unaware that their lord has fallen ‘The characters may decide to follow any of the three ‘commanders into battle STRAHD AND THE VILLAGE OF ZMEI If the characters decide to remain in the vilage and assist ‘Strahd they are attacked by a Paladin of Argynvost (use the Life Priest statblock here) and three Infantrymen. ‘Strahd is terribly injured and is bleeding heavily. Two of the Infantrymen will attempt to move past the players to strike Strahd down, Ifhe is successfully defended for 1d4 turns, three Vistani arrive to help nurse him back to health. They provide him a healing potion and help him walk to one oftheir wagons. RAHADIN AND THE HILLS Ifthe characters move to the treeline with Rahadin they initially find silence. The trees are quiet, and it feels that the battle is distant. A successful DC14 Wiadom (Perception) check reveals a series of snare traps laid in the grass. A character that rushes into the bushes triggers the snare and ‘must make a DC14 Dexterity Saving Throw or they are -rappled and suspended 10ft in the air.‘They may release themselves through a successful DC13 ‘Strength (Athletics) or Dexterity (Acrobatics) check, by spending 1 minute of time struggling to remove the snare, or ‘companion helps them down. If they must remove the snare themself, they also take 146 bludgeoning damage as, they fall back to the ground. A successful DC16 Wisdom (Survival check also reveals the familia: signs of foot traffic i the area. Characters that fail to notice the telltale signs of the enemy forces are surprised as an ambush party comprised of a Paladin of Argynvost (use the Life Priest statblock here) and three Infantrymen attack from the trees. ALEKSANDRA AND THE CASTLE Ifthe characters charge through the frontline with ‘Aleksandra they are met with some resistance from the Order's defensive forces. The battle rages around them; Strahd's soldiers are locked blade to blade with knights in silver and blue, and the height disadvantage is now coming into play. Argynvost’s forces begin to roll large stones down hill toward the party as they climb. 35, 10foot-diameter stone spheres begin to crash down the hill oward the army, (Refer {o the Dungeon Master's Guides section on tr information on rolling sphere traps.) When the party overcomes the boulders and reach the top, they encounter a powerful general, and Commander Alek Guilyms brother, Sir Godfrey Gwilym (as he is currently human, his revenant abilities, undead status, and undead resistances and immunities are removed for this fight) and three Guards responsible for leveraging the boulders down the hill, lt 1 for Fora larger party increase the number of guards to 54; for a higher level party, consider using the CR 1/2 Soldier instead. EEE! CHAPTER CLOSE Regardless of the path the adventurers choose to follow, ‘once the combat has been resolved and they have had a brief second to catch their breath, read A river 0f blood flows down the silvered sword as it now lies ‘dle in the mud A divine cacophony of thunder beats on your eardrums accompanied by a cold shiver that runs the length of ‘your bodies, The cold seems to emanate from (high upon the billfrom the mansion abead).A shrieking roar rps through the air, silencing the battlefield and your attention is drawn southward A silver glint mitrors the sun above; pair of claws crest the turrets ofthe castle, ad soon, you are in full view of | Argynwost. The Silver Dragon ‘but the war years and the killing years wore down my ‘soul as the wind wears stone into sand” ‘TREASURE ‘The attuned creature may now cast Unseen Servant as a ritual spell once per dusk. CHAPTER 2: THE RISE OF RAVENLOFT "My army settled in the valley, renamed for my father as ‘we took power over the people in the name of a just god, but with none of a god's grace or justice.” With the final resistance of the Order of the Silver Dragon suppressed, the bountiful countryside was claimed in the name ofthe late, great King Barov. ‘Too many years of Strahd’s lifetime were spent ‘campaigning across the country with a sword in his hand and an army at his back. These long years isolated him from his family, and in his time away, he lost both his father and his dear mother. In this chapter, characters have the opportunity to meet with members of Strahd's court, including Leo Dilisnya and Gabriel Andral, witness Strahd's pledge to the land, and take some time to explore the Lord's private study in Raventot. ‘When a character successfully decodes this chapter, read: tle You stand just beyond the front gates ofa curtain wall, so huge that the largest of glantkind could pass through with ease. The walls nearly fifty feet in height, interrupted by squared off turrets that rise even higher. The walls further dwarfed by the rounded towers of the keep overhead, the tallest soaring easily three times the height of the curtain wall. The cloven patter of hooves clod through the dirt and stone behind you, some trodding across a seemingly infinite bridge, ‘THE Party's INVOLVEMENT ‘The war party has climbed the high hills of Barovia, and they now cross into the courtyard of the soon-to-be-christened Castle Ravenloft, ‘Tue Castie CourTYARD Following behind the characters are Rahadin, Aleksandra Gwilym, Leo Dilisnya, and Gabriel Andral Strahd has gone ahead through the castle doors with a few men to sce the inside and will return shortly. Adventurers may take this time to explore the courtyard (Area K1) and speak with his ‘What the advisors know: + The lands here now belong to Lord Strahd. + Their own stories (see Appendix A) + Rahadin and Alek are aware that there is an assassin hidden amongst the forces that secks to eliminate Strahei + They captured and executed a man who was in possession of a dagger commonly carried by the mystical [Bal Verzi assassin's guild, but they do not believe he was the actual assassin, 1AM THE ANCIENT, |AM THE LAND Alter the characters have explored the courtyard, Strahd merges from the entrance ofthe castle (Area K7) I the characters are mid-conversation, any of Srahd's forces request they fll silent. ReaThe terible silence of the place is interrupted by the cold shriek ofa blade being unsheathed. Strabd tigtly clutches to a red, black, and gold dagger. Its finely crafted hilt leads to a curved, dark ade. The weapon in his right hand, Strabd kneels and wrenches his left hand into the sol before returning to bis feet, dirt crumbling from between his knuckles. He points the tip of the dagger briefy north, east, south, and west before stabbing it lightly into his pal. A blend of drt and blood drip ashe squeezes. “1am Strahd | am the Land” (Repeat several times) ‘Draw near and witness, Srahd, am the land” With the ritual complete, the mists swallow the scene. Srranp's STuDY “All goodness slipped from my life. Ifound my youth and strength gone, and all Thad left was death..." ‘The characters reemerge from the grey fog and find themselves in Strahd's personal study (Area K37). Rese! What litle light burns inthe dimming fireplace is enough to fill the room with rolling waves of red and amber light illuminating rows and rows of ancient books their leather covers well-oiled and preserved through careful use, peppered by large gaps likely left to film more, The stone floor is concealed beneath a thick, luxurious rug. n the center of the room isa large, low table, waxed and polished to a mirrored finish Even the poker in its stand next to the blazing fireplace {is polished A sturdy, carved desk houses several scros of parchment, open books, and candles burned nearly to the wick. In one of the two chairs crafted of burgundy-colored wood wit padded leather seats that face the hearth is Lord Strabd von Zarovich; his head rests in his left hand, 2 letter is ‘rioped tightly in his other. Sirahd has just recieved ward that his mother, Queen Ravenovia, has passed. She was never able to see her new mesake. Gabriel Andral, has delivered the letter to Strahd personally and hopes to offer some comfort to his Lord by offering condolences of the Morninglord, Strahd tolerates the Morninglord's presence in the land and recognizes the power of the church but is not devout himself and believes the Dawnmaster's words are nonsense. ‘The characters are mere witnesses to this conversation, and any character paying particular attention and succeeds on a DC1S Intelligence (Insight) check can sense a clear ‘tension between the two, Strahd eventually accepts an offer from Andral to take a ‘walk down to the chapel and leaves the characters to explore the room, Refer to the Rooms of Weeping section in the module for a full description of the room. Characters opening the doors find only Barovian Mist on the other side, though they can access the secret door leading to the False Treasury (Area K38) Strahels desk contains a variety of spell components (none ‘worth more than 10gp), some high-quality spellbook parchment, and a small lockbox. ‘The chair he was seated in also contains the letter from his family's attendant informing him of the queen's passing, el, As this moment has occurred before his introduction to Tatyana, the portrait detailed in the ‘module is not above the fireplace. Instead, there is portrait of King Barov and Queen Ravenovia. Alternatively, if your characters are raring fora fight, you may include Strahd's Guardian Portrait. eR—owclclooSoo After the characters have explore the space, Strahd re enters the room and pauses. He looks around knowingly, as if he knows someone is here or has been here. Once the characters are sufficiently unnerved, he snuffs the fire, iit hhas not been already and pulls the poker, stepping through the secret door. The embers sputter out, the darkness overtakes the study, and the world goes black. ‘Treasure. Any books found in Strahd's growing collection are worth 1gp-100gp each. ‘The lockbox on the tabletop contains 37sp and 162gp as wells 1d4 gothic trinkets CHarrer CLose "Escape from the ieolation of death was impossible. Ia ‘my many years, [learned that the brightest days cast the darkest of shadows.” TREASURE ‘The attuned creature may now cast Gentle Repose as ritual spell once per dusk. CHAPTER 3: BROTHERS IN ARMS ‘At my advisors’ behest, [called for my remaining family, Jong unseated from their ancient thrones, and brought them here to settle in the castle I built for them. From this plea came a younger brother of mine, Sergei, nearly grown. [had never known him.” With the von Zarovich line bequeathed to him, Strahd sent ‘word to bring his family to their new seat of power. The man that reponded to the summons is none other than Sergei von Zarovieh. ‘This chapter introduces the characters to the exuberant, charismatic, and beautiful man that Serge is and how starkly contrasted he is to Strahd. In order to further establish the differences between them, Serge is also presented as an acolyte of the church as he isin I, Strahd with the added context of him being devoted to the Morninglord, ‘Characters also have the opportunity to partake in a welcome party of sorts, Strahd celebrates his brother's homecoming as only a warrior may know how: with an exhibition tournament. Tue Party's INVOLVEMENT It seems that all f Barovia has gathered to greet the von Zarovich family, and the adventurers have the chance to participate in the homecoming.‘Tue AupreNce HAL ‘When the chapter begins, the party finds themselves standing in the Audience Hall (K25) of Castle Ravenloft Read: You stand on either side of ahigh-back, wooden throne atop 3 ‘marble dais in which sits Strahd donning a scarlet red tunic with glimmering gold clasps and a black cape flowing over his shoulders. A ball extends some thirty feet ahead, various {guards and well adorned nobility stand to ether side of the hall Forming an aisle, al illuminated by 2 towering, stained-glass window inthe far commer depicting a cerulean and gold sunrise. While itis clear that the audience is gathered for some. remarkable event, the room is still abuzz awaiting its beginning, Adventurers asking around the room learn the followings + The people gathered here are assorted Barovian noble families, + ‘They have gathered here to greet Lord Strahd's family Any adventurer inspecting the stained glass can make successful DC12 Wisdom (Religion) check (oindeatily the abstract sun painted on the window as the symbol of the Morninglord. Any cleri of the Morninglord can recognize the symbol immediately, no check required. Once the party has had sutficient time to explore the space, read The murmurs that flutter through the hall are quieted by the sound of heavy wooden doors panting, aprocession of ‘marching footsteps, and the blare of trumpets. A beautiful man with wavy black hair, kind eyes, and a warming sale leads 3 ‘group of nearly a dozen people that enter the space. He ‘approaches boldly, confidently, draped in the familiar robes of the Morninglord with a radiant sword resting at his hip. The hilt of the weapon is 0 fine that you would not be faulted for believing it was made of pure light. He drops to a knee before the throne, Sergei does not have much regard for formality or processes. He is young and excitable and has long been an only child, Even now in his late-twenties he is driven by a vibrant enthusiasm and warm spirit that Strabd lacks. ‘With his approach, Rahadin stands next tostrahd and announces the arrival: Welcome Sergei von Zarovich second son of King Barov and (Queen Ravenovig Awakened son of Desgir the Morningiord, 10 our Castle Ravenloft The keep's splendors and comforts are yours” Serge rises to his feet. Strahd rises in turn and steps down the marble stairs, standing a solid si inches taller than his brother. He reaches to shake his hand, but as ther forearms clash together, Sergei pull his brother infor a hug. Strabd steps back and pronounces, loud enough for the roorm to hear: “tts good to have you, brother. Comme, let us celebrate.” Anyone observing this interaction can make a DC11 Intelligence (Insight) check to recognize that Strahd is ‘made visibly uncomfortable by the hug. ‘After Serahd's announcement, the room erupts into cheers and applause, and the stained glass window begins to glow brightly. The light eventually overtakes the room. None of attendants pay it any mind, and only the adventurers seem to notice ‘Tue CHarEL COURTYARD ‘The attendants in the chamber have moved the festivities to ‘makeshift ournament behind the eastle in Area KS. The light dissipates, and you feel agentle breeze brush your cheek. The earthen smell of fresh grass brings spring and summer warmth to your soul. The warm embrace of the sun shines over you and suddenly you hear raucous cheering. Tiree smal sets of tiered benches have been constructed in the garden behind the castle's chapel. Somme forty feet beyond {you are two wrought iron gates that rest ajar and ead to an ‘overlook. Even from here you can see the caps of distant ‘mountain ranges, far to the east. The cheering however, appears to be coming fromm onlookers gathered around watching a tournament of sorts. ‘Two young participants exit the ring, and Rahadin notes the vietor. He is currently presiding over the organization of the event, and if anyone wishes to participate in combat, they can speak to them. The party may sit and speak with any of the members of Strahd's court, look around the grounds, investigate the Overlook (Aten K6). (COMPETING IN THE TOURNAMENT Eventually, Rahadin announces that these who had signed up so far have fought and asks for new fighters. ‘Challengers may select their opponent, and Strah guests are all far too proud to turn down a challenge. Adventurers may select any of the following to challenge in the ring: SStrahd von Zarovich (as a CR12 Warlord) ‘Sergei von Zarovich (as a CR 9 War Priest) Rahadin (without their Deathly Choir feature) ‘Aleksandra Gwilym (as a CRS Master-at-arms) Gabriel Andral (as a CR9 War Priest) Leo Dilisnya (as a CR9 Zealot Barbarian) Lady Ilona Dirovnya (as a CR2 Mastermind Rogue) ‘Any Barovian noble in the audience Bach other ‘The exhibition matches are not intended to be deadly, they are meant tobe entertaining, but those in attendance are all ‘capable warriors in their own right. When a match begins, the competitors roll initiative and conduct combat as normal Each fight is conducted either until one fighter earns five points (restraining themselves and striking for one point of damage) Alternatively, you may host a more aggressive tournament in which combatants fight until one fighter falls below 10 Hit Points,A BROTHERLY BRAWL ‘After each member ofthe party (or as many members wish topartake) have taken their turns, Sergei rises from his seat tochallenge Strahd, and the roar from the crowd overtakes the scene, The adventurers are suddenly placed into seats around the pit, and Strahd and Sergei are already mit-fight. Sergei’s sword fies down, nearly chopping Strakdin half from the crown, but the Lord manages to get his sword raised in time to leave aninch's gap between steel and skull Sergei dips back, narrowly evading the red, black, and gold perying dagger. He props up, tossing his parying dagger into a reverse grip, tilting bis short sword not like a noble in 2 due! but a teenager ina street brawl, Strahd's eyes fall on his brother's sloppy stance and in a flurry of black cloth, he dives to an opening on his left before feigning right with his dagger. Sergei stumbles but manages to catch his brother's arm with his own, batting the dagger away before it could snk in, Back on his feet, ‘Sergei brings his sword around in large sweep from lef to right and begins to spin in toward his target. Strabd partes the obvious attack with ease, but the small dagger nearly finds bis throat Strahd steps in lke a dancer twlng in tandem with a partner, pulling his neck back just enough to avoid the point of the dagger, and forcing his brother to overstep He stands Upright, his blade held straight, the point pressed gently to the base of Sergei’s skull. They lower their weapons and bow, the crowd erupts. As they look out the people, Sergei waving enthusiastically, an enormous smile an his warm face, hardy 2 drop of sweat breaking on his forehead, Strahd, drenched in sweat, panting, waving out of obligation, glares briefly in his brother's direction Cuarrer CLose Strahd and Sergei step from the arena, and Lord von Zarovich’s voice rises from all around, "He was handsome and youthful I hated him for both.” ‘TREASURE The attuned creature may now cast Mage Armor as a ritual spell once per dusk. CHAPTER 4: TATYANA “Then, all my disparaging thoughts fell away like dead Jeaves. She was, without doubt, the most beautiful person I'd ever seen.” ‘Tatyana and her subsequent reincarnations isthe heart and sou! of Strahd's eternal curse. This meeting, courtesy of Sergei, spelled the beginning of Strahd's curse. Tn this chapter, the characters attend an intimate dinner ‘with Strahd, Patrina Velikov, Sergei, Tatyana, Ilona Dirovnya, ‘and Rahadin, It is important to distinguish this evening from ‘ present day dinner with Strahel. This evening, Tatyana is the guest of honor, nat the adventurers, who are regarded as ‘welcome guests, Tue Party's INVOLVEMENT Evening has fallen in Barovia, the candles of Ravenloft have been lit, and those of noble blood and commoners alike have gathered in ther finest clothes for a lovely feast. Tue Dunc HALL, ‘The adventurers materialize seated around the long table in Castle Ravenloft's Dining Hall (Area K10) Tiree enormous crystal chandeliers biliantly illuminate a ‘magnificent feast hal Pillars of stone stand against dull white ‘marble walls, supporting the ceiling. You are seated inthe Center ofthe room at along, heavy table covered with a white satin tablecloth The table is laden with an assortment of delectable foods: roasted beast basted ina savory sauce, roots and herbs of every taste, sweet fruits, and fresh vegetables. Places are set for each of you and six other guests with fie, delicate china and silver. At each place is a crystal goblet filled with an amber liquid emanating a delicate, tantalizing fragrance. Around you, you see At the center ofthe far west wall, between floor-to-ceiling mirrors, stands a massive pipe ‘organ, currently resting in silence. The room is instead ‘consumed by the roar ofa grand fireplace burning on the southern wal, ‘This moment may be an enormous reveal for the party. If, up to this point, they have not learned of Tatyana and the nature of her soul's reincarnation, emphasize that this woman is the spitting image of Treena, ‘This dinner is not a particularly pleasant meal as each quest will be vying for attention and their place atthe table. GUESTS AND THEIR GOALS + Strahd + Learn as much as he ean about Tatyana, * Dama his brother in any way that he can, including casually making a point that as a member of the church, Sergei does have to take a vow of non- marriage. + He will pay no mind to Patrina even though he is her escort for this evening + Patrina ‘+ Attempt to regain Strahd’s attention any way she ‘+ Avoid Rahadin's judgements, + Sergei * Engage al of the guests atthe table in ‘conversation. + He is entirely oblivious to Strahd's advances on Tatyana. ‘He firmly believes his older brother is joking any time he insults him and has a smooth retort to any negatives,+ Mona Baskin the chaos of the meal + Speak to any guests, primarily Sergei, about the Morninglord and the church. + Rahadin + Keep the peace as best he can. + Aggressively aid Strahd in conversation and tout his accomplishments, + Will do all but physical decorum at dinner. y fight someone to keep the When dinner winds down, enough blows have been struck, and the players have asked their fair share of questions, Sergei will excuse himself and Tatyana as he must return her tothe village down the hill Strahd will insist that she remain in the castle as a guest, and he will have a room drawn up for her immediately. Tatyana remains humble and initially refuses, Sergei respects whatever she wishes, Patrina wishes she would go, and Rahadin insists she stay to spite Patrina. ‘She stays, but even as she accepts Strahd!’s offer, she stares longingly at Sergei, and Strahd's face falls somber. “Te was as if the sun that had favored me had been all along hidden by a cloud. Its brilliant glory now shone in fall upon him... and him alone.” ‘THe Courtinc OF THE COUNT Strahd does everything in his power as Lord of Barovia and ruler of Castle Raventoft to impress Tatyana, When those gestures of affection fail time and time again, he falls back to his growing magical abilities. In his research, he has learned that love is an elusive energy, and long-term effects on emotions are nearly impossible to maintain, but that does not prevent him from trying. As Strahd’s voice echoes and inner closes, read: THE CHAPEL COURTYARD (K5) You are whisked away tothe castle courtyard, Strahd walking with Tatyana inthe soft dusk light He asks how she finds her ew living quarters here and about her growing level of comfort To which she responds “Everything is wonderful, Old One." While you recognize this is likely a form of formal address inthe vein of “elder,” you nonetheless see Straha’s eyes momentary grow wide as ia knife has suddenly pierced bis chest. The sound ofa gentle harp strums over the quiet courtyard, and the mists blind you DINING HALL OF THE COUNT (AREA K36) You hear Tatyana giggle and turn around to see her no longer behind the castle but sitting on a stoo! in agrand, wooden roorn. Her air has grown several inches The stunning harp ‘music coasts through the ar, and you see Strabd plucking at it the instrument's stings, entirely at peace, enraptured by Tatyana’ joy. Until a door clicks and Sergei enters. She stands bows to him, and he hurries on toward her, hugging her so tightly she rises from the ground. He spins her. A successful DCL1 Wisdom (Insight) check reveals that she is confused as he lifts her, Not toa point of dislike, but she feels uneasy. Succeeding by 5 or more, they can recognize a sense of guilt that they figure relates to her relationship with Serge. RETURN TO THE DINING HALL (AREA K10) Tatyana continues to spin and her tunic morphs into a lowing red dress with alarge petticoat She naw dances in a ballroom, the same hall where you all sat for dinner, now cleared for a crowd, whirling to the tne of the grand pipe organ and 2 small band. She clasps hands with Sergei as he forms from the mist, and they twist and twirl and float throughout 2 crowd of beautiful nobility all doing the same, save Lord Strahd Von Zarovich who sits starkly below a deathly stil portrait of his ‘own likeness He calls for a toast to the people of Barovia and his incredible guest, staring deeply into Tatyana's eyes. He steps forward from his throne and hands Tatyana and Sergei goblets. A successful Wisdom (Perception) check contested by ‘Strahd's Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check (+3) reveals ‘Strahd removed a small vial from his pocket and poured a Philter of Love into Tatyana’ drink. Ifthe adventurers intervene Tatyana spills some of be drink, curteeys and excuses herself, Sergei follows after her If Tatyana drinks the Philter she turns toward Sergei at the als him away for a dance. cend of the toast and immediately CHAPTER CLOSE “One would think the ritual for casting a love-spell or creating a love-philter would be more common, but my books were bereft of such things, except for a single short treatise on the subject. The writer's conclusion that ove was a force that could not be successfully reproduced by magical methods struck me as being inanely smug.” TREASURE ‘The attuned creature learns how to craft a Philler of Love using the rules from The Alchemy Almanac. CHarTER 5: THE UNHOLY COMMUNION "Tegan dealing with something far beyond my experience in magic and needed no wise teacher to tell sme it was deadly If meeting Tatyana was the beginning of Strahd’s eternal cend, his pledge to Vampyr was the first nail in the coffin. His starved hunger for magic that would grant him Tztyanas love and remove his brother's competition drove him mad and ‘opened his soul to the terrible powers haused in the heart of the Balinok Mountains. Itis in this chapter that Strahd succumbs to the draw of tundesth, and the characters are given the power to help of hinder his quest to the Amber TempleTue Party's INVOLVEMENT ‘The characters find themselves returned to Strahd’s study, the night he discovered the dark magic that dwells in the ancient Amber Temple Srranp's STupy ‘The study (Area K37) has changed in the years between this chapter and the day that Strahd learned of his mother's, death, Read: You settle into a familar om. Strah's personal study, Unlike ‘your previous vist, however, the hearth ies cold. The room is near pitch dark and lit by few stray candles. Their ames dance and cast long shadows on the fully stocked shelves. Books new and old, that appear to contain endless pages of spells and Incantations. The portrait above the mantle no longer resembles the members of the von Zarovich family, Instead, it Js a luxurious rendering of Tatyana Inthe far comer of the room, looking over the space, is Strahd, enveloped by his black cloak, muttering under his breath and weaving arcane gestures in the ar ‘The characters arrive as Strahd is attempting to learn and, cast Animate Objects, practicing the proper verbal and somatic components on the two leather chairs. WHISPERS IN THE DARK During this time, Strahd believes the characters to be voices of spirits that have been plaguing him in recent days. The voices are getting louder, more aggressive, more inquisitive. Strahd is willing to disclose the following as he is losing his mind + Sergei and Tatyana will not leave each others’ side. + He no longer trusts any member of his court excey ‘Rahadin and Alek as he feels they would support Sergei taking over his rule + He grows even more suspicious that other nobles are ‘seeking to eliminate him. He grows desperate in his pursuit of Tatyana, ‘He has grown from a warlord and tactician to a capable spelleaster (he can currently cast spells up to Sth level, After several minutes of conversation, there is knock at the door. Strahd's focus on his spell is shattered, and before he can offer permission to enter, it creaks open. THe ANNOUNCEMENT The door opens to reveal Sergei and Tatyana, hand in hand, grinning from ear to ear. They have come to Strahd to announce their betrothal They wish to host the ceremony in Castle Ravenloft chapel in one moon's time. ‘The characters may whisper in Strahd's ear to temper or stoke his anger, and he will glance around as if seeking their input on allowing the couple to marry. Tatyana’s pleas overtake all else, however, and eventually, the pair takes their leave, Strahd turns to the characters: "She calls me ‘elder’ ‘Old one.’ Yet she has fallen for that gullible, faithless boy." He returns to his desk and begins fervently leafing through a decrepit looking spellbook. Read: You hear adeep, terrible voice rasp from somewhere unseen. Dozens of voices echo in unison, Tatyana, Rahadin, Alek, Sergei, you even recognize the voices of your fellow party ‘members: "You cannot find what you seek in a book.” Strahd whips around in terror, and the book folds itself to aclose, page by page, The warmth of the library whisks away, and the candles are blown ou. A howling winter whispers “Come to me,” and the pitch dark feels teribly cold. ‘Tue Amper TEMPLE (EXTERIOR) The exterior of the temple is a magnificent facade, even in the terible cold. The inside ofthe temple is currently hore ton enclave of powerful mages that curate its expansive brary and protect the long-sealed tombs of terrible old gods, ensuring they remain locked away here. ‘The growing number of voices pierce your mind and the wind that claimed the candles whips your cloak. Your vision returns, and you standin a blizzard an a mountainside before sx, carved amber statues, towering over Forty feet tal Each figure remains deep in prayer You recognize other figures ahead of ‘you: Strahd and Alek, clad.n armor, trekking through the snow toward the temple in the rock ‘Strahd has mounted an expedition here alongside his most trusted general He fully intends to kill anyone between himself and the voice beckoning him here. The characters ‘can work to help or hinder Strahd as he unearths Vampyr. Inhhis almost inhuman rage, Strahd tears through this sacred place, and the characters must succeed on a Skill lenge in order to accomplish their goal You approach the colossal entrance carved int the face of the rock. The flicker of torchlight fights against the darkening sky, and ints light you see the silhouette of Strahd glide across the snow, and pant it red with the blood of arobed figure that stood outside ‘Tre Amser TEMPLE (INTERIOR) While the characters struggle (o keep up with Strahd as he charges tits depths, you may use the map from the current Amber Temple to guide them, The massacre proceeds through the following rooms as Strahd follows Vampyr's ‘whispers through the secret halls ofthe temple ‘The Overfook (Area X4) ‘The Annex (Area X15) ‘The Hallway (Area X17) ‘The Banquet Room (Area X22) The Shrine (Area X24) ‘The Wizard's Chamber (Area X27) ‘The Library (Area X30) ‘The Amber Vault (Area X42)pil ly ‘The wizard in Area X27 is Exethanter, prior to becoming a lich. At this point, he has met Strahd before but has never explicitly told him ofthe temple ‘orits location. They may exchange some formal conversation, and Exenthanter will express his disappointment in Strahd, but he refuses to do battle with him as he knows he will lose. —_——_—eoOo." THe AMBeR VAULT ‘When Strahd has completed his warpath, the characters find themselves alongside Strahd and Alekin the Amber ‘Vault (Area K42), Itis here that Strahd bonds his soul to Vampyr, and the characters have the opportunity to help or hinder the process, You stand inthe round chamber and Strahd, covered in blood shrieks: "Iam here! What do you require of me? You are Death, no? Have you come for me? Ifso, then take me and be damned" The voices from the study shout together: "Ihave come on your behalf. You have fed me well, and you are due ‘your reward Lay your hand on my tomb. You hunger for your for your lost youth, Stakd von Zarovich I shal remove the rival from your path, and you shall age not one day more." Aleksandra grips firmly to her sword Strahd takes several steps toward the large amber sarcophogus He drops his sword to the ground, you fee! the sound draw from the already arctic cold chamber, and with each silent footfall the torch light dims as if drawn into a drain ‘When the party has arrived, and Strahd approaches the amber sarcophous, let them know that they now have a ‘choice to aid him in the ritual or work to prevent it. Regardless of their decision, they must sueceed on five skill ‘checks before failing three skill checks. Some potential checks include: + Intelligence (Arcana) to study and understand his. incantations, + Wisdom (Religion) to help maintain the seal of the ssarcophogus. * An attack roll to attempt to physically remove him or Alek from the space. * Charisma (Persuasion) to make Alek understand that ‘what Strahd is doing is dangerous and wrong, Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) to steal Strahd's spell ‘components. * Wisdom (Medicine) o help him remain conscious. If the characters succeed in aiding Strahd in the ritual: Credit: Strahd's hand braces against the now glowing amber, and you see where the light has been drawn: 2 phantasmal shadow ‘erupts from the surface ofthe tomb and forms into humanoid shape with winglike appendages draping from its forearms lke the grand sleeves of arobe. The wings envelop Strabd and the shadows soon come to swallow the room. Eyes glow red in the pitch ahead turning to where Alek stood moments before, The light slowly returns and Strahd rests on his knees, The voice of Death speaks “Do you wish ta lve?” Strahd nods, ‘exhausted It hisses: “Then feed” Another echo of hard, heavy steel rings out Alek’s longsword drops dead to the floor as Strahd raises herby the throat. The choking ends quickly. The ripping of blood cascading down her front lasts much longer. The liquid pools on the stone asthe body hangs from Strahd's law. His eyes are sharp and narow lke a predator on the prowl His mouth is soaked in blood Color leaves the world the scarlet blood fades to grey, and the mists consume the ancient crypt “igIf the characters succeed in preventing Strahdls ritual he faints, collapsing to the stone, and the tomb glows: The terrible shadow ofa phantasmal shadow erupts from the surface of the tom and forms into humanoid shape with winglike appendages draping from its forearms like the grand sleeves of arabe. The form rises the height ofthe chamber, towering over you Blood red eyes shine from the darkness and stare. "You are worth more to me in death than you ever could be in life." Its eyes Fall to you alla Strahd rises from the floor. "He wil serve me nicely. You all will not lve to see the light of another sunrise.” The shadow swallows the room, and Alek cries in the dark. Armor clattrs to the stone. Torches spark arourd the room and Strahd kneels over the body of his advisor, induldging n fountains of her blood CuarrEr CLOSE “There it was. The parley, the bargaining, the trade. What did it want of me? What could Death possibly want from ‘TREASURE ‘The attuned creature may now cast Commune as a ritual spell once per dusk. CHAPTER 6: WEDDING BELLS ""Twish you had someone like Tatyana,’ he enthused at ‘me. ‘Oh, but I will ‘The dawn of Strahdls final day. His pact was initiated in the vaults of the Amber Temple, but his eternal soul was sealed by drinking of his brothers’ blood. On the day of Sergei and Tatyanais wedding, Strahd's twisted jealously boiled over into an unrelenting rage. As ‘Sergei bled and Tatyana fell to her death, another key member of Strahd's court seized the opportunity to overthrow the Lord of Barovia Leo Dilisnyas forces plotted for months to turn the ‘wedding day red, and Strahd’s transformation only fucled their vindication. ‘THE Party's INVOLVEMENT ‘The characters are present for the wedding ceremony, inleuding the deaths of Sergei and Tatyana and Strahdl's battle against the traitorous forces led by Leo Dilisaya. pigs This chapter adds a door on the north eastern comer ‘of the Chapel (Area K15) connecting it irecty to the ‘Chapel Courtyard (Area KS). ifyou do make this adjustment consider whether this dooris still an ‘entrance that is available to your players in the present day. ———_wua™ ‘Tur Cape CourTyarp Royalty and common folk from across Barovia and beyond join together in the spring sun for some light conversation in ‘Area KS, A joyous melody echoing from the pipes of a grand organ wakes you from a deep, restful slumber. The warmth of a verdant sprig afternoon energizes your skin Dozens of people are gathered in beautifully adorned tunics and dresses. Each conversing, glass of wine in hand with people of a wide range of races and garments. With the bong of abel, they all raw thei attention toward a beautiful stained glass window depicting a white knight and red-haired bride who seem almost alive in the sunshine and begin to walk toward 2 doorway Teading inside, ‘The party has the opportunity here to spealewith an assortment of Barovian (and non-Barovian) citizens about the ‘wedding today. Rumor has it that Strabd had this new window commissioned for his brother and Tatyana. He didn't (Strahd did allow the construction, but itwas Lady Dirovnyais idea). This scene should fecl spectacularly lighthearted and joyful Everyone is full of love and anticipation, ‘Tue CHAPEL ‘The chapel is currently radiant and colorful decorated floor to ceiling for the most elaborate wedding anyone has ever seen, Ifthe characters follow anyone inside, read: You enter agrandiose hall capped by a 90ft tall domed ceiling, raised by towering archways. The white marble walls are wreathed by strings of flowers and vines, and the decadent smell of a feast rises from down the hall, blending with the fresh air from the gardens beyond and a symphony of lowers. Guests filter nto rows of chars set to face the ceremony along the east wall Standing atthe front of the chapel as you _passs just next to an altar carved with bas-reliefs of angelic Figures entwined with grape vines, is Serget in a white coat, adored with golden tassels and a priestly pendant on a