Strahd von Zarovich
The Dreadlord of Barovia
Dreadlord Strahd von Zarovich
The following content is designed for customizing the campaign module Curse of Strahd to fit into the Florenelle D&D setting.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Strahd had the misfortune of living during the Necromantic War. He did, however, gladly serve in it as his family believed Arkengrath would lead his family into eternal glory through the discovery of necromancy. It would turn out that Strahd was a successful military leader, for he served in the Elvarid and Undarid Campaigns.
Arkengrath and Strahd were at constant odds. This factor would escalate when he was promoted as a Dreadlord and given the chance to have land to operate in. He chose a particularly beautiful valley he would later call Barovia, in honor of his father, King Barov. He would then have Castle Ravenloft constructed, named after his mother, Queen Ravenovia. From that point, he settled the land into his own domain.
Then came the lull in the Necromantic War between the Undarid and Draconic campaigns. Strahd became restless and focused on domestic matters just to stay entertained. He wanted to fight in the War but Arkengrath was silent on what his next assignment would become. This restlessness ate at him, for he wanted to fight and uphold a way to stave off death. Such a secret would soon be bestowed to him. Not from Arkengrath, however, but a supposed associate.
Curse of Strahd SpoilersEventually, there came Count Constantine who would provide the gift Arkengrath has been neglecting to provide. However, he would only do such a thing when the War would be one. Impatient and demanding his reward for his service now, Strahd sought out alternative means, consorting with what he calls “the Dark Powers” to bestow the gift unto him. The Nameless Host, as the entity is called, agreed. However, the gift would be provided when the time was right.
When Tatyana, a peasant girl, came around and Strahd had a strong passion for her, she instead took interest in Sergei. This would breed unending envy in Strahd, for he would kill his brother at their wedding, demanding Tatyana to be his instead. This vile deed was the trigger the Nameless Host wanted, turning Strahd into the vampire he would later be infamous for.
Accomplishments & Achievements
- Successful military career for the Arkonian Order.
- Founded the land of Barovia.
- Constructed Castle Ravenloft.
Failures & Embarrassments
- Neglected by Arkengrath during the Necromantic War.
- Wounded during a battle around northern Thracallia.
Social
Family Ties
Strahd is the son of Queen Ravenovia and King Barov. His only brother is Sergei von Zarovich.
Cold and Calculating. Wears an extravagant black robe. Also the Dreadlord of Barovia.
I am the ancient, I am the land.
Comments
Author's Notes
The following is designed for accommodating Strahd’s history into the Florenelle setting.