The release of Curse of Strahd introduced players of 5th edition Dungeons & Dragons to the world of Ravenloft by providing a detailed look at Barovia, a gothic horror setting dripping with blood and ectoplasm. This world was expanded upon by Van Richten’s Guide to Everything, a book that takes a wider view of the Domains of Dread, loosely related “mini settings” of which Barovia is only one. With this article I explore how Dungeon Masters can incorporate material from both books into a single campaign.
To this end, we’ll take a look at the “tarokka reading,” a unique feature from the Curse of Strahd adventure that allows DMs to randomize elements of the campaign with a deck of cards. The tarokka reading determines the location of three MacGuffins or “treasures” needed to kill Strahd, the identity of “Strahd’s enemy,” a powerful ally who helps the party in the final battle, and the location within Castle Ravenloft where said final battle takes place.
As written, these random elements are limited to the confines of Barovia, but we can expand the adventure’s scope to include locations and NPCs detailed within Van Richten’s Guide to Everything. Use the lists below in combination with the rules found in Curse of Strahd to generate readings that can take your campaign into the wider world of Ravenloft.
Finding Mist Talismans
Once your players learn of the locations detailed in each card reading, they’ll need to figure out how to escape Barovia and travel to the other Domains of Dread. For this they’ll need Mist talismans, artifacts that allow the user to travel through the Mists and arrive at a specific domain. One solution is to make the search for these items an entire adventure in and of itself by scattering them throughout Barovia. To determine where the party might find the Mist talismans they need, we can perform a second reading using the locations detailed in the original Curse of Strahd adventure.
Another option is to use the tarokka cards themselves as Mist talismans. After performing the reading, Madam Eva gifts the characters the cards she drew before sharing the secret of how to use them to traverse the Mists. This is a good option if you want to avoid expanding the length of an already sizable adventure, although it might cause your players to ignore most of the locations in Barovia itself.
Treasure Locations
Use the common deck (1 through 10) to determine the location of the three treasures.
Swords (Spades)
1 of Swords–Avenger
The treasure can be found in an unassuming herbalist shop in Modentshire. The shop’s owner is more than he seems.
The treasure is in the domain of Mordent. The herbalist shop where it can be found is owned by Rudolph van Richten.
2 of Swords–Paladin
I see an order of knights forever locked in battle against the dark.
The treasure is in the Shadowlands, and can be found in the armory of the Circle.
3 of Swords–Soldier
The treasure lies in a city worn down by the scourge of endless war.
The treasure is used by the soldiers of Falkovnia to help defend the city of Lekar.
4 of Swords–Mercenary
The treasure lies beneath a castle that endures a siege unending.
The treasure is located within the dungeons of Castle Stonecrest in Staunton Bluffs.
5 of Swords–Myrmidon
I see a land twisted by terrors from beyond the stars. The treasure hides in their hive, far beneath the surface.
The treasure is studied by a deviant mind flayer arcanist in Bluetspur. They can be found in Citadel Subterrene.
6 of Swords–Berserker
The treasure is in the possession of a warlord whose lands run red with blood.
The treasure is in the domain of Nova Vaasa, and can be found in the war den of Myar Hiregaard.
7 of Swords–Hooded One
I see a bridge connecting two islands in the mist. The treasure hangs suspended from its center.
The treasure hangs from a rope tied beneath the Rider’s Bridge.
8 of Swords–Dictator
I see a city whose inhabitants share an endless dream. The treasure hides in the home of the city’s ruler!
The treasure is in the Palace of Bones within the domain of I’Cath. It can be found above the mantelpiece in the dining hall.
9 of Swords–Torturer
The treasure is trapped in a land of nightmares. Look for the dreamer’s restbed.
The treasure is located in the City of Nod in the Nightmare Lands. It is kept in the clinic of Caroline Dinwiddy.
Master of Swords–Warrior
The treasure lies within a house built atop the canopy of a deadly forest.
The treasure is in the Pantara Lodge in Valachan. It can be found in the displacer beast stables.
Stars (Clubs)
1 of Stars–Transmuter
I see a ventriloquist performing in a dismal music hall. The puppet on his lap hides the secret.
The treasure is in the domain of Risibilos. It is stuffed inside Doerdon’s ventriloquist dummy.
2 of Stars–Diviner
The Vhage Agency is renowned for its detective work, but the organization’s office hides a few secrets of its own.
The treasure is kept in an evidence drawer inside the Vhage Agency headquarters.
3 of Stars–Enchanter
I see a castle trapped in time. The treasure lies within!
The treasure is kept in the treasure vaults of Castle Avernus in Darkon.
4 of Stars–Abjurer
The marquis of Ghastria hides from his drudgery behind a gallery of paintings. The treasure can be found there.
The treasure is in the domain of Ghastria. It can be found in Marquis Stezen D’Polarno’s private art gallery.
5 of Stars–Elementalist
I see a machine made of metal and powered by lightning hurtling through the Mists!
The treasure is aboard Cyre 1313, the Mourning Rail. It can be found in the engine room.
6 of Stars–Evoker
The sworn enemy of the lich searches fruitlessly for his favored sword. What he has found instead is the key to your victory.
The treasure is in the possession of Kas in Tovag.
7 of Stars–Illusionist
I see a lavish estate that plays host to the masked nobility of Dementlieu. The treasure is in the hands of one of them.
The treasure is in the D’Honaire Estate in Dementlieu. One of the masked nobles uses the treasure as part of their costume during the Grand Masquerade.
8 of Stars–Necromancer
The Aderre Estate is home to a deeply troubled child. The treasure can be found in their bedroom.
The treasure is in the home of Gabrielle and Malochio Aderre in the domain of Invidia. It’s hidden inside Malochio’s toy box.
9 of Stars–Conjurer
I see a theater where every performance ends in blood.
The treasure is used as a prop for the plays performed in Scaena.
Master of Stars–Wizard
Countless spellcasters toil away in the laboratories of a madman. The treasure lies in the hands of one who does not understand its true power.
The treasure can be found in the laboratories of Sly-Var in Hazlan. It is in the possession of an arcanist who attempts to unlock its secrets.
Coins (Diamonds)
1 of Coins–Swashbuckler
I see a light burning against the fog of a stormy sea.
The treasure is at the top of the Lighthouse in the Sea of Sorrows.
2 of Coins–Philanthropist
I see a laboratory on an island of intelligent beasts.
The treasure is in the domain of Markovia. It is located in the laboratory of Dr. Frantisek Markov.
3 of Coins–Trader
The treasure is guarded by the Vistani. In order to find it, you must first find the caravan that protects it.
The Vistani caravan protecting the treasure never stays in one domain for long, and can be found in a domain of the DM’s choice once the party is able to catch up to it.
4 of Coins–Merchant
I see a village of children, no adults to be found! Perhaps the toymaker knows the secret?
The treasure is in the domain of Odaire. It is hidden in the workshop of Guiseppe.
5 of Coins–Guild Member
There is a village where the inhabitants hide behind a curtain of falsehoods. The treasure has become part of their twisted game.
The treasure can be found in Kartakass in the village of Emherst. The actors that make up the population have adopted the treasure as a prop for their performances.
6 of Coins–Beggar
A desolate mountain looms above a silent village. The treasure can be found at its highest peak!
The treasure can be found at the top of Mount Lament in the domain of Keening.
7 of Coins–Thief
The treasure lies within a monastery that takes more than it gives.
The treasure is located in the Ashram of Niranjan. It is hidden amidst the books in the monastery’s library.
8 of Coins–Tax Collector
I see an island hurtling through the abyss. Each passing hour draws it closer to oblivion.
The treasure is in the domain of Klorr. Every time the island holding the treasure is destroyed by Klorr, the treasure reappears on the newest island to join the cycle.
9 of Coins–Miser
The baron of the von Aubreck clan is trapped somewhere between man and machine. Look to his laboratory for the power to defeat your foe!
The treasure is in the possession of Baron Rudolph von Aubrecker in Lamordia. The characters can find it in the west wing of his castle.
Master of Coins–Rogue
The warden of Souragne is just as much a prisoner as his captives. The treasure hides amongst his possessions!
The treasure is kept in Anton Misroi’s prison in Souragne, and can be found in the warden’s office.
Glyphs (Hearts)
1 of Glyphs–Monk
The treasure can be found in this very land. Look to the Abbey of Saint Markovia, but beware the madness that awaits within!
The treasure is in the domain of Barovia. It can be found in the Abbey of Saint Markovia, above the village of Krezk.
2 of Glyphs–Missionary
I see a cathedral built in the name of a false god. To find the treasure, listen for the bell!
The treasure is in the domain of G’henna, within the city of Zhukar. It can be found inside the cathedral’s belfry.
3 of Glyphs–Healer
The doctors of Mortigny fight a losing battle against a terrible plague. The treasure keeps their dead company while they await their incineration.
The treasure is in the domain of Richemulot. It can be found inside the mortuary of the Mortigny West Clinic.
4 of Glyphs–Shepherd
The treasure lies within a structure that is equal parts house and monster. It can be found roaming the forests of Tepest.
The treasure is in the domain of Tepest, where it is hidden inside the Gurgyl, stuffed inside the chimney.
5 of Glyphs–Druid
The treasure can be found in a terrible fortress that was built atop the bones of the Forlorn’s guardians.
The treasure is in Castle Tristenoira in Forlorn. It is kept underneath the bed of Tristen ApBlanc.
6 of Glyphs–Anarchist
The treasure lies beneath a city that is home to the dangerous and the desperate.
The treasure is in Zherisia, in the sewers below the city of Paridon.
7 of Glyphs–Charlatan
The treasure is hidden in a collection of the weird and wonderful.
The treasure is featured as an exhibit within the Carnival’s Hall of Horrors.
8 of Glyphs–Bishop
Look to the god of mists! Her followers keep the treasure within one of her most sacred places.
The treasure is within the Great Cathedral in Borca, where the followers of Ezra keep it as a holy relic.
9 of Glyphs–Traitor
The treasure lies within a tower of skulls.
The treasure is in Kalakeri within the Tower of Traitors, hidden amongst the rows of skulls.
Master of Glyphs–Priest
I see a city stricken by sand and sun. A limestone temple provides shade to its people.
The treasure is hidden within storerooms of the Temple of Ese in Har’Akir.
Strahd’s Enemy
Use the high deck (jacks, queens, kings, and jokers) to determine the identity of Strahd’s enemy.
Artifact (Joker 1)
I see a doctor turned monster hunter. Tragedy clings to him like a shadow.
This card refers to Rudolph van Richten. While his curse normally discourages him from working closely with others, the details of the prophecy are sufficient for him to make an exception.
Beast (Jack of Diamonds)
A swordswoman travels the Mists alongside her faithful hounds.
This card refers to Laurie Weathermay-Foxgrove. She requests aid in slaying the werewolf, Natalie Vhorishkova, before agreeing to assist the party.
Broken One (King of Diamonds)
The one you seek has lost the use of his legs, but his intellect is second to none.
This card refers to Alanik Ray, the Great Detective. He is more than eager to tackle the challenge of toppling a Darklord, and sees it as a potential defining moment for his career. His partner, Arthur Sedgwick, will insist that they fight Strahd together as a team.
Darklord (King of Spades)
The wizard-tyrant of Darkon lives! Though once an ally of your enemy, he is now the key to overturning his domain.
This card refers to Azalin Rex, the former Darklord of Darkon. Now free from his prison, Azalin has set his sights on Barovia. He agrees to help the party with the intention of taking Strahd’s throne for himself.
Donjon (King of Clubs)
Look for a Vistana halfling with a knack for cards. Her talents extend far beyond simple fortune telling.
This card refers to Mother Luba. Before agreeing to aid the party, she might first ask for their help in capturing an evil spirit that escaped from her special tarokka deck.
Seer (Jack of Clubs)
A Vistana has mastered the art of traversing the Mists almost as much as the art of weaving a story.
This card refers to Hyskosa. Well versed in prophecy himself, he accepts his fate, but there’s a catch. Hyskosa refuses to travel to Barovia with the party, instead promising that he will come to their aid only at the precise time that he is needed.
Ghost (King of Hearts)
I see a youth, stolen from this mortal coil too soon. His spirit follows his grieving father, who remains ignorant of his presence.
This card refers to Erasmus van Richten. The easiest way to get his attention is to find ways to assist his father, Rudolph van Richten. Once the party earns Erasmus’s trust, he accepts his fate and leaves his father for a chance to do some good in his afterlife.
Executioner (Jack of Spades)
Seek the student of Rudolph van Richten!
This card refers to Ez D’avenir. She is enthusiastic for the opportunity to prove herself as an equal to her old mentor.
Horseman (Joker 2)
A physician from Martira Bay will aid in your quest.
This card refers to Arthur Sedgwick. His partner, Alanik Ray, will want to join his quest as well.
Innocent (Queen of Hearts)
A young practitioner of medicine works tirelessly to cure herself of an ailment that may or may not exist.
This card refers to Gennifer Weathermay-Foxgrove. Before agreeing to go with the characters, she asks for their assistance in finding a more permanent cure for her supposed lycanthropy.
Marionette (Jack of Hearts)
A paddleboat traverses the waterways that connect the domains of Ravenloft. The boat’s captain will lend you aid.
This card refers to Larissa Snowmane, captain of the River Dancer. She agrees to assist the characters in any way she can.
Mists (Queen of Spades)
I see a host of wanderers, all sharing the same face. Only one will help in your quest.
This card refers to one of Jander Sunstar’s many duplicates. Whereas the other duplicates refuse to help because of Jander’s previous failed attempt to kill Strahd, the one mentioned in the reading will see this as an opportunity to atone for his sins.
Raven (Queen of Clubs)
Look for a man with a raven on his shoulder. His vast reserves of knowledge can help slay the vampire!
This card refers to Firan Zal’Honan. Before accepting his role in the characters’ reading, he tests their resolve by sending them on a quest to retrieve bits of obscure lore for him.
Tempter (Queen of Diamonds)
You must rely on a creature who hides a heart of cruelty behind a visage of beauty. Guard yourself against its advances!
This card refers to the Caller. Once discovered it will agree to help, but will attempt to subtly corrupt the characters along the way in the hopes of getting one of them to replace Strahd as the new Darklord of Barovia.
Strahd’s Location
For Strahd’s location, stick with the readings found in Curse of Strahd if you want to keep the adventure’s climax within Castle Ravenloft. This will give the adventure some nice symmetry as the characters start and end their adventures in Barovia. Alternatively, you can give the adventure an additional twist by having Strahd escape Barovia to terrorize the Domains of Dread beyond. Use the high deck (jacks, queens, kings, and jokers) to determine where the characters can find him for the final confrontation.
Artifact (Joker 1)
Your foe haunts the dreams of those who can never wake.
Strahd has come to I’Cath to steal the Nightingale Bell from Ping’On Tower. With the reality warping powers of the bell, Strahd plans to construct an idealized version of Barovia, one in which Tatyana never dies and marries him instead of his brother, Sergei.
Beast (Jack of Diamonds)
He is in the company of wolves and musicians.
Strahd is in Kartakass, staying at the Old Kartakan Inn and Taverna in Skald. He is Harkon Lukas’s guest. Strahd proposes an alliance which would grant him access to the Harkon’s werewolf pack. With these beasts, Strahd plans to bolster his own undead army to squash any remaining resistance to his rule in Barovia.
Broken One (King of Diamonds)
You will find him in the land of ice and butchery. Look for the castle perched above the frozen sea!
Strahd has journeyed to Lamordia to seek out the services of Dr. Viktra Mordenheim. He can be found in her castle, Schloss Mordenheim. Strahd has paid Dr. Mordenheim a fortune to capture Tatyana’s soul in a flesh golem made in her likeness and thereby break the cycle of reincarnation.
Darklord (King of Spades)
The vampire lurks in the midst of gilded balls and lavish feasts. Truly, a wolf in sheep’s clothing!
The party finds Strahd in Borca, ingratiating himself with the nobility of Lekvarest. He weaves a web of alliances in the pursuit of the political power necessary to fuel his conquest of the other Domains of Dread.
Donjon (King of Clubs)
He stalks the halls of a castle that is not his own. What he finds there may forever change the tides of history!
Strahd has journeyed to Darkon, where he searches Castle Avernus for the means of reincorporating the dying domain into the borders of Barovia, and thereby expanding his territory.
Seer (Jack of Clubs)
He wanders the sands of Har’Akir in search of a treasure more valuable than gold.
Strahd scours the desert of Har’Akir for Ankhtepot’s missing ka. With this piece of the Darklord’s soul, Strahd would have power over Ankhtepot, and through him, the rest of Har’Akir.
Ghost (King of Hearts)
He consorts with spirits in the lonely town of Mordentshire.
Strahd works behind the scenes in Mordentshire, in the domain of Mordent. He plans to steal the Apparatus from the House on Gryphon Hill in the hopes of using it to end his vampirism and put his soul to rest.
Executioner (Jack of Spades)
He travels with a troupe of entertainers from one domain to the next. The blade of the shadar-kai is what he seeks!
Strahd has disguised himself as a performer of the Carnival. He lies in wait looking for the right moment to kill the Carnival’s leader, Isolde, and gain possession of her sword, Nepenthe. With the sword, Strahd plans to exact vengeance against all who have crossed him.
Horseman (Joker 2)
An undead army marches towards the walls of Lekar. Your enemy will be there on the front lines!
The zombie army laying siege to Falkovnia has a new leader: Strahd von Zarovich. With the vampire’s strategic mind organizing the undead incursion, this could spell the end of Vladeska Drakov and her Talons once and for all.
Innocent (Queen of Hearts)
I see a village that has found beauty in simplicity, but at a terrible cost!
Now free from the torments of Barovia, Strahd has adopted a simple life as a Viktal farmer in Tepest. He hides his undead nature from the villagers, who have accepted his presence without question. Still, every now and again his thirst for blood drives him to prey upon his neighbors.
Marionette (Jack of Hearts)
A spire rises into the heavens. You’ll find your foe near the peak.
Mind flayer induced dreams have led Strahd to Bluetspur. He seeks the means of gaining control of Mount Makab, and thereby project his thoughts across the multiverse to search for every incarnation of his beloved, Tatyana.
Mists (Queen of Spades)
I see a land veiled in trees and choked by vines. Your enemy isn’t the only predator that stalks these jungles.
Strahd is engaged in a deadly game of cat and mouse with Chakuna in Valachan. Whichever Darklord triumphs will gain power over both Valachan and Barovia.
Raven (Queen of Clubs)
A ship with red sails carries death across a stormy ocean.
In the Sea of Sorrows, Strahd captains the Redfang, a pirate ship crewed by the undead. Thanks to the unique properties of this ocean, Strahd is able to carry out raids against any domain that connects to a body of water. His turn to piracy has earned the ire of Pietra van Riese, who sees him as a rival.
Tempter (Queen of Diamonds)
Look to the catacombs beneath Chateua Delanuit.
Strahd works with the Inverted Court in Richemulot to produce a strain of wererat/vampire hybrids. This new plague will be contagious enough to spread beyond the borders of Richemulot and infect the neighboring Domains of Dread.