Codex Baroviana - User contributions [en]

Help:How to engage with this tome

2025-02-11T22:37:06Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:left;">← [[Codex Baroviana]]</div><div style="float:right;">[[Archivist's Note]] →</div></br>

The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by [[Bonaventure L'Heureaux]], is a document with many authors. As a scholar of [[Barovia]], you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual [[Dramatis_Personae|characters]] of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you wish! Make stuff up! If any is found to be contradictory, it will simply be corrected by the august Prelate.

==Marginalia==

[[File:Marginalia-penis.jpg|thumb|left|Marginalia]]

[[wikipedia:marginalia|Marginalia]] was an important means of scholarly transmission in the era of codices, passing down observations, contemporary views, and drawings of penises through the ages. On any page, you may press the "Marginalia" tab to add your own observations on the topic or record your own notes, with no concern to their accuracy or canonicity!

Help:How to engage with this tome

2025-02-11T22:36:49Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:left;">← [[Help:How to engage with this tome|How To Engage With This Tome]]</div><div style="float:right;">[[Archivist's Note]] →</div></br>

The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by [[Bonaventure L'Heureaux]], is a document with many authors. As a scholar of [[Barovia]], you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual [[Dramatis_Personae|characters]] of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you wish! Make stuff up! If any is found to be contradictory, it will simply be corrected by the august Prelate.

==Marginalia==

[[File:Marginalia-penis.jpg|thumb|left|Marginalia]]

[[wikipedia:marginalia|Marginalia]] was an important means of scholarly transmission in the era of codices, passing down observations, contemporary views, and drawings of penises through the ages. On any page, you may press the "Marginalia" tab to add your own observations on the topic or record your own notes, with no concern to their accuracy or canonicity!

Help:How to engage with this tome

2025-02-11T22:21:16Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:right;">[[Archivist's Note]] →</div></br>

The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by [[Bonaventure L'Heureaux]], is a document with many authors. As a scholar of [[Barovia]], you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual [[Dramatis_Personae|characters]] of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you wish! Make stuff up! If any is found to be contradictory, it will simply be corrected by the august Prelate.

==Marginalia==

[[File:Marginalia-penis.jpg|thumb|left|Marginalia]]

[[wikipedia:marginalia|Marginalia]] was an important means of scholarly transmission in the era of codices, passing down observations, contemporary views, and drawings of penises through the ages. On any page, you may press the "Marginalia" tab to add your own observations on the topic or record your own notes, with no concern to their accuracy or canonicity!

Help:How to engage with this tome

2025-02-11T22:12:15Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:right;">[[Archivist's Note]] →</div></br>

The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by [[Bonaventure L'Heureaux]], is a document with many authors. As a scholar of [[Barovia]], you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual [[Dramatis_Personae|characters]] of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you wish! Make stuff up! If any is found to be contradictory, it will simply be corrected by the august Prelate.

==Marginalia==

[[File:Marginalia-penis.jpg|thumb|Marginalia]]

[[wikipedia:marginalia|Marginalia]] was an important means of scholarly transmission in the era of codices, passing down observations, contemporary views, and drawings of penises through the ages. On any page, you may press the "Marginalia" tab to add your own observations on the topic or record your own notes, with no concern to their accuracy or canonicity!

File:Marginalia-penis.jpg

2025-02-11T22:10:27Z

Dungeonmaster:

Help:How to engage with this tome

2025-02-11T21:25:58Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:right;">[[Archivist's Note]] →</div></br>

The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by [[Bonaventure L'Heureaux]], is a document with many authors. As a scholar of [[Barovia]], you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual [[Dramatis_Personae|characters]] of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you wish! Make stuff up! If any is found to be contradictory, it will simply be corrected by the august Prelate.

==Marginalia==

[[wikipedia:marginalia|Marginalia]] was an important means of scholarly transmission in the era of codices, passing down observations, contemporary views, and drawings of penises through the ages. On any page, you may press the "Marginalia" tab to add your own observations on the topic or record your own notes, with no concern to their accuracy or canonicity!

Archivist's Note

2025-02-11T21:25:29Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:left;">← [[Help:How to engage with this tome|How To Engage With This Tome]]</div><div style="float:right;">[[Prologue]] →</div></br>

It was in the fourth year of my tenure as the Archivist Subaltern at a certain scholarly monastery that I encountered, by pure chance, a band of travelers from a distant land. Simply passing through our sleepy hamlet, they had stopped to rest at the local inn, where I myself had alit to raise a pious tankard to the divine. As was my custom, I allowed my inquisitive ear to heed the words they shared among their party, and it was then that I first heard the name of a principality most exotic: [[Barovia]]. So intrigued was I at the mention of this unknown country, to my knowledge unmentioned in all the many tomes of the Archives, that I confessed to these travelers my trespass into their conversation and bade them tell me more of this strange land.

Happily, they indulged me in good humour, and, weary from the road, eagerly accepted my offer of food and lodging at the monastery in exchange for their tales of adventure. And though I intended only to compose a small travelogue of interest purely to the geographer, the tales they told me — shocking in their depravity, moving in their romance, stirring in their accounts of unparalleled valor! — would change the course of my life. I have spent much of my subsequent scholarly career verifying what I could of these tales, of the land of Barovia and [[Strahd]], great and terrible, who ruled it.

This codex is the result of my life's labor. In it are included, as well as the tales told to me those many nights ago, dutifully recorded and (may the [[gods]] forgive me) unexpurgated, a variety of footnotes and additional research which should give some context to these incredible tales. To the best of my knowledge, the [[Codex Baroviana]] is our world's only scholarly work on the subject of Barovia, as — for reasons which will soon become clear — little news of any sort leaves that land. It is my fervent wish that this tome not only instruct the reader in the geography, planography, and ethnology of the gods' vast and varied creations, but also shed a faint light on the nature of the gods and man, of good and evil, and of the resilience of the spirit. Perhaps it may even secure your humble servant his own kind of immortality, though — as we shall see — that is a gift most dubious.

: — Fr. Bonaventure L'Heureux, Grand Archivist Prelate

Archivist's Note

2025-02-11T21:24:43Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:left;">← [[Help:How to engage with this tome]]</div><div style="float:right;">[[Prologue]] →</div></br>

It was in the fourth year of my tenure as the Archivist Subaltern at a certain scholarly monastery that I encountered, by pure chance, a band of travelers from a distant land. Simply passing through our sleepy hamlet, they had stopped to rest at the local inn, where I myself had alit to raise a pious tankard to the divine. As was my custom, I allowed my inquisitive ear to heed the words they shared among their party, and it was then that I first heard the name of a principality most exotic: [[Barovia]]. So intrigued was I at the mention of this unknown country, to my knowledge unmentioned in all the many tomes of the Archives, that I confessed to these travelers my trespass into their conversation and bade them tell me more of this strange land.

Happily, they indulged me in good humour, and, weary from the road, eagerly accepted my offer of food and lodging at the monastery in exchange for their tales of adventure. And though I intended only to compose a small travelogue of interest purely to the geographer, the tales they told me — shocking in their depravity, moving in their romance, stirring in their accounts of unparalleled valor! — would change the course of my life. I have spent much of my subsequent scholarly career verifying what I could of these tales, of the land of Barovia and [[Strahd]], great and terrible, who ruled it.

This codex is the result of my life's labor. In it are included, as well as the tales told to me those many nights ago, dutifully recorded and (may the [[gods]] forgive me) unexpurgated, a variety of footnotes and additional research which should give some context to these incredible tales. To the best of my knowledge, the [[Codex Baroviana]] is our world's only scholarly work on the subject of Barovia, as — for reasons which will soon become clear — little news of any sort leaves that land. It is my fervent wish that this tome not only instruct the reader in the geography, planography, and ethnology of the gods' vast and varied creations, but also shed a faint light on the nature of the gods and man, of good and evil, and of the resilience of the spirit. Perhaps it may even secure your humble servant his own kind of immortality, though — as we shall see — that is a gift most dubious.

: — Fr. Bonaventure L'Heureux, Grand Archivist Prelate

Codex Baroviana

2025-02-11T21:23:22Z

Dungeonmaster:

== Introduction ==
===[[Help:How to engage with this tome|How To Engage With This Tome]]===
===[[Archivist's Note]]===
From the records of Fr. Bonaventure L'Heureaux, Grand Archivist Prelate.
===[[Prologue]]===
A brief accounting of the adventurers' lives before traveling to [[Barovia]].
== The Travelers' Tales ==
===[[Session One]]===
In which our heroes find themselves in [[Barovia|a strange land]], their fates inextricably linked, and seek shelter in a [[Moraru Manor|most uncanny villa]].
===[[Session Two]]===
Wherein the adventurers plunge into the crypts beneath this unholy manor, slaying the [[Walter Moraru|twisted monster]] that lurks within its heart.
===[[Session Three]]===
An accounting of the party's entry into the castle-town of [[Ravenna]], the divers personages they find there, and their encounter with a [[Doru Donavitch|young man bearing a horrible curse]].
===[[Session Four]]===
Wherein our heroes participate in a bizarre Barovian [[Religion in Barovia|religious rite]] to lay to rest the souls of the [[burgomaster]] and the priest's departed son.
===[[Session Five]]===
In which the adventurers, their ranks fortified by new companions, depart from Ravenna to seek the guidance of [[Madam Eva]] the fortune-teller and the safety of the fortified city of [[Vallaki]].
===[[Session Six]]===
Wherein the travelers leave the safety of Madam Eva's camp at [[Tser Pool]] and continue on their way to Vallaki, encountering terrifying [[fish-men]] and a great cliff-face.
==Index==
===[[Dramatis Personae]]===
An accounting of the many personages involved in the adventurer's tales.
===[[Gazetteer]]===
The lands and locales through which our intrepid heroes passed on their journey.
===[[Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Barovians.
===[[The Celestial Wheel]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Vistani.
===[[Cartarokka|The Cartarokka]]===
The Vistani tradition of augury and divination.

Help:How to engage with this tome

2025-02-11T21:22:11Z

Dungeonmaster: Created page with "The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by Bonaventure L'Heureaux, is a document with many authors. As a scholar of Barovia, you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual characters of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you..."

The '''Codex Baroviana''', though its material was first assembled by [[Bonaventure L'Heureaux]], is a document with many authors. As a scholar of [[Barovia]], you are encouraged to add to and emend its corpus! Although the accounts of each session should be left untouched, there is a variety of information, particularly about individual [[Dramatis_Personae|characters]] of the tale with whom you may have especial familiarity, that this codex still lacks. Add whatever you wish! Make stuff up! If any is found to be contradictory, it will simply be corrected by the august Prelate.

==Marginalia==

[[wikipedia:marginalia|Marginalia]] was an important means of scholarly transmission in the era of codices, passing down observations, contemporary views, and drawings of penises through the ages. On any page, you may press the "Marginalia" tab to add your own observations on the topic or record your own notes, with no concern to their accuracy or canonicity!

MediaWiki:Nstab-talk

2025-02-11T21:09:30Z

Dungeonmaster: Created page with "Marginalia"

Marginalia

Sefi

2025-02-11T21:06:41Z

Dungeonmaster: Created page with "'''Sefi Half-Elven''', also known as '''Sefi the Procuress''', '''Sefi the Panderer''', '''Sefi Whore-Monger''', and a variety of other epithets..."

'''Sefi Half-Elven''', also known as '''Sefi the Procuress''', '''Sefi the Panderer''', '''Sefi Whore-Monger''', and a variety of other epithets...

Prologue

2025-02-11T21:04:46Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:left;">← [[Archivist's Note]]</div><div style="float:right;">[[Session One]] →</div></br>
== Before the Fellowship ==

=== Mother Millian's Tale ===
[[Millian]] was Clan mother to the Crockfoot Clan it was Millian's responsibility to look after her furtive halfling kinsmen. She softened to their wishes to 'live a little' and 'enjoy life' and allowed some music and festivities. The noise of a baby naming celebration brought giants and giant kin down upon their cave. The entire clan was wiped out.

Millian awoke from the battle with a bump on her head and shame in her heart. The ancestors beseeched her to travel with an interest in understanding the meaning of such menial insignificant life. Coming down from her hill country she ran into a group of colorful travelers, "the Vistani", she criticized and ate their soup and passed out under a wagon. She awoke in the strange cursed land of Barovia next to Corwin the monster hunter and a recently deceased knight named Slag.

=== "Longshot" Jones' Tale ===
[[Corwin Jones]]...
=== Slag the Undying's Tale ===
[[Slag]] woke up in a field.
=== Sefi Half-Elven's Tale ===
[[Sefi]]...

Barovia

2025-02-11T20:59:55Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''Barovia''' was the name given to a valley surrounded by a [[mysterious fog]] which prevented entry and egress. Named for [[Barov von Zarovich]], an ancestor of the line of [[Strahd XIII von Zarovich]], Barovia was previously inhabited by the [[forest folk]] before its conquest and settlement by [[Strahd I von Zarovich]] and his army of [[Barovians]] c. 350 of the [[Barovian Calendar]]. The valley of Barovia is also inhabited by the [[Vistani]], a nomadic people who are said to possess the secret of traversing the fog.

==Climate==
Barovia is eternally covered in a layer of clouds, with the open sky rarely visible through them except on the most clement days. Its general temperature and climate classification is [[wikipedia:Humid_continental_climate#Koppen_Dfb|hemiboreal]], although it approaches the [[wikipedia:Subarctic_climate|subarctic]] due to its reduced temperature from lack of sunlight. [[Winter|Winters]] are cold, though snow is generally seen only in [[Sečen]]; the other winter months are typified by sleet and freezing rain. [[Spring|Springs]] and [[autumn|autumns]] are chilly, with temperatures averaging in the low 40°F, and [[summer|summers]] are mild, averaging in the mid-50°F. Precipitation is common throughout the year but heaviest during the late spring and summer, with thunderstorms common during the month of [[Treven]]. Due to the high humidity and mysterious curse, fog is common throughout the year.

===Flora===

Barovia is dominated by [[wikipedia:Temperate_coniferous_forest|temperate coniferous forest]], characterized by [[wikipedia:beech|beech]] and [[wikipedia:Silver_fir|silver fir]]. [[Wikipedia:larch|Larch]], [[wikipedia:pine|pine]], [[wikipedia:birch|birch]], [[wikipedia:poplar|poplar]], [[wikipedia:spruce|spruce]], and [[wikipedia:maple|maple]] are also common. Lower regions of the valley are also home to [[wikipedia:oak|oak]], [[wikipedia:hornbeam|hornbeam]], and [[wikipedia:linden|linden]]. Other important plants in the Barovian valley include [[wikipedia:sunflower|sunflower]], [[wikipedia:peony|peony]], [[wikipedia:crocus|crocus]], [[wikipedia:wolfsbane|wolfsbane]],
[[wikipedia:hellebore|hellebore]], and [[wikipedia:wild_rose|wild rose]].

===Crops===
Barovia's low temperatures and scant sunlight make it unsuitable for many crops, but Barovian farmers eke out an existence raising crops appropriate to the local climate. Throughout the agricultural year, farmers harvest [[wikipedia:root vegetables|root vegetables]] including [[wikipedia:beets|beets]] and [[wikipedia:carrots|carrots]]; cruciferous vegetables such as [[wikipedia:broccoli|broccoli]], [[wikipedia:cauliflower|cauliflower]], cabbage, and [[wikipedia:spinach|spinach]]; and [[wikipedia:broad bean|broad beans]], [[wikipedia:lentils|lentils]], and other [[wikipedia:pulses|pulses]]. Summer brings local fruits including [[wikipedia:apricots|apricots]], [[wikipedia:currants|currants]], [[wikipedia:mulberries|mulberries]], [[wikipedia:melons|melons]], [[wikipedia:sour cherries|sour cherries]], and [[wikipedia:strawberries|strawberries]], as well as [[wikipedia:summer squash|summer squash]]. In autumn, Barovians harvest grains, predominiately [[wikipedia:rye|rye]] and [[wikipedia:wheat|wheat]]; seeds and nuts including [[wikipedia:sunflower seeds|sunflower seeds]] and [[wikipedia:hazelnuts|hazelnuts]]; and fall fruits including [[wikipedia:pear|pears]], [[wikipedia:apple|apples]], [[wikipedia:quince|quinces]], and [[wikipedia:grape|grapes]]. In winter, few crops are harvested but [[wikipedia:onion|onions]] and [[wikipedia:garlic|garlic]], and [[wikipedia:chestnut|chestnuts]] and [[wikipedia:acorn|acorns]] are gathered from the surrounding forest.

Most of the crops in Barovia are darker, smaller, and more shriveled than average and crop yields are small, due to prevailing low-light conditions.

==Settlements==
===[[Castle Ravenloft]]===
===[[Ravenna]]===
===[[Vallaki]]===

Barovia

2025-02-11T20:59:02Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''Barovia''' was the name given to a valley surrounded by a [[mysterious fog]] which prevented entry and egress. Named for [[Barov von Zarovich]], an ancestor of the line of [[Strahd XIII von Zarovich]], Barovia was previously inhabited by the [[forest folk]] before its conquest and settlement by [[Strahd I von Zarovich]] and his army of [[Barovians]] c. 350 of the [[Barovian Calendar]]. The valley of Barovia is also inhabited by the [[Vistani]], a nomadic people who are said to possess the secret of traversing the fog.

==Climate==
Barovia is eternally covered in a layer of clouds, with the open sky rarely visible through them except on the most clement days. Its general temperature and climate classification is [[wikipedia:Humid_continental_climate#Koppen_Dfb|hemiboreal]], although it approaches the [[wikipedia:Subarctic_climate|subarctic]] due to its reduced temperature from lack of sunlight. [[Winter|Winters]] are cold, though snow is generally seen only in [[Sečen]]; the other winter months are typified by sleet and freezing rain. [[Spring|Springs]] and [[autumn|autumns]] are chilly, with temperatures averaging in the low 40°F, and [[summer|summers]] are mild, averaging in the mid-50°F. Precipitation is common throughout the year but heaviest during the late spring and summer, with thunderstorms common during the month of [[Treven]]. Due to the high humidity and mysterious curse, fog is common throughout the year.

===Flora===

Barovia is dominated by [[wikipedia:Temperate_coniferous_forest|temperate coniferous forest]], characterized by [[wikipedia:beech|beech]] and [[wikipedia:Silver_fir|silver fir]]. [[Wikipedia:larch|Larch]], [[wikipedia:pine|pine]], [[wikipedia:birch|birch]], [[wikipedia:poplar|poplar]], [[wikipedia:spruce|spruce]], and [[wikipedia:maple|maple]] are also common. Lower regions of the valley are also home to [[wikipedia:oak|oak]], [[wikipedia:hornbeam|hornbeam]], and [[wikipedia:linden|linden]]. Other important plants in the Barovian valley include [[wikipedia:sunflower|sunflower]], [[wikipedia:peony|peony]], [[wikipedia:crocus|crocus]], [[wikipedia:wolfsbane|wolfsbane]],
[[wikipedia:hellesbore|hellesbore]], and [[wikipedia:wild_rose|wild rose]].

===Crops===
Barovia's low temperatures and scant sunlight make it unsuitable for many crops, but Barovian farmers eke out an existence raising crops appropriate to the local climate. Throughout the agricultural year, farmers harvest [[wikipedia:root vegetables|root vegetables]] including [[wikipedia:beets|beets]] and [[wikipedia:carrots|carrots]]; cruciferous vegetables such as [[wikipedia:broccoli|broccoli]], [[wikipedia:cauliflower|cauliflower]], cabbage, and [[wikipedia:spinach|spinach]]; and [[wikipedia:broad bean|broad beans]], [[wikipedia:lentils|lentils]], and other [[wikipedia:pulses|pulses]]. Summer brings local fruits including [[wikipedia:apricots|apricots]], [[wikipedia:currants|currants]], [[wikipedia:mulberries|mulberries]], [[wikipedia:melons|melons]], [[wikipedia:sour cherries|sour cherries]], and [[wikipedia:strawberries|strawberries]], as well as [[wikipedia:summer squash|summer squash]]. In autumn, Barovians harvest grains, predominiately [[wikipedia:rye|rye]] and [[wikipedia:wheat|wheat]]; seeds and nuts including [[wikipedia:sunflower seeds|sunflower seeds]] and [[wikipedia:hazelnuts|hazelnuts]]; and fall fruits including [[wikipedia:pear|pears]], [[wikipedia:apple|apples]], [[wikipedia:quince|quinces]], and [[wikipedia:grape|grapes]]. In winter, few crops are harvested but [[wikipedia:onion|onions]] and [[wikipedia:garlic|garlic]], and [[wikipedia:chestnut|chestnuts]] and [[wikipedia:acorn|acorns]] are gathered from the surrounding forest.

Most of the crops in Barovia are darker, smaller, and more shriveled than average and crop yields are small, due to prevailing low-light conditions.

==Settlements==
===[[Castle Ravenloft]]===
===[[Ravenna]]===
===[[Vallaki]]===

Codex Baroviana

2025-02-11T20:55:41Z

Dungeonmaster:

== Introduction ==
===[[Archivist's Note]]===
From the records of Fr. Bonaventure L'Heureaux, Grand Archivist Prelate.
===[[Prologue]]===
A brief accounting of the adventurers' lives before traveling to [[Barovia]].
== The Travelers' Tales ==
===[[Session One]]===
In which our heroes find themselves in [[Barovia|a strange land]], their fates inextricably linked, and seek shelter in a [[Moraru Manor|most uncanny villa]].
===[[Session Two]]===
Wherein the adventurers plunge into the crypts beneath this unholy manor, slaying the [[Walter Moraru|twisted monster]] that lurks within its heart.
===[[Session Three]]===
An accounting of the party's entry into the castle-town of [[Ravenna]], the divers personages they find there, and their encounter with a [[Doru Donavitch|young man bearing a horrible curse]].
===[[Session Four]]===
Wherein our heroes participate in a bizarre Barovian [[Religion in Barovia|religious rite]] to lay to rest the souls of the [[burgomaster]] and the priest's departed son.
===[[Session Five]]===
In which the adventurers, their ranks fortified by new companions, depart from Ravenna to seek the guidance of [[Madam Eva]] the fortune-teller and the safety of the fortified city of [[Vallaki]].
===[[Session Six]]===
Wherein the travelers leave the safety of Madam Eva's camp at [[Tser Pool]] and continue on their way to Vallaki, encountering terrifying [[fish-men]] and a great cliff-face.
==Index==
===[[Dramatis Personae]]===
An accounting of the many personages involved in the adventurer's tales.
===[[Gazetteer]]===
The lands and locales through which our intrepid heroes passed on their journey.
===[[Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Barovians.
===[[The Celestial Wheel]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Vistani.
===[[Cartarokka|The Cartarokka]]===
The Vistani tradition of augury and divination.

Barovia

2025-02-11T20:53:19Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''Barovia''' was the name given to a valley surrounded by a [[mysterious fog]] which prevented entry and egress. Named for [[Barov von Zarovich]], an ancestor of the line of [[Strahd XIII von Zarovich]], Barovia was previously inhabited by the [[forest folk]] before its conquest and settlement by [[Strahd I von Zarovich]] and his army of [[Barovians]] c. 350 of the [[Barovian Calendar]]. The valley of Barovia is also inhabited by the [[Vistani]], a nomadic people who are said to possess the secret of traversing the fog.

==Climate==
Barovia is eternally covered in a layer of clouds, with the open sky rarely visible through them except on the most clement days. Its general temperature and climate classification is [[wiki:Humid_continental_climate#Koppen_Dfb|hemiboreal]], although it approaches the [[wiki:Subarctic_climate|subarctic]] due to its reduced temperature from lack of sunlight. [[Winter|Winters]] are cold, though snow is generally seen only in [[Sečen]]; the other winter months are typified by sleet and freezing rain. [[Spring|Springs]] and [[autumn|autumns]] are chilly, with temperatures averaging in the low 40°F, and [[summer|summers]] are mild, averaging in the mid-50°F. Precipitation is common throughout the year but heaviest during the late spring and summer, with thunderstorms common during the month of [[Treven]]. Due to the high humidity and mysterious curse, fog is common throughout the year.

===Flora===

Barovia is dominated by [[wiki:Temperate_coniferous_forest|temperate coniferous forest]], characterized by [[wiki:beech|beech]] and [[wiki:Silver_fir|silver fir]]. [[Wiki:larch|Larch]], [[wiki:pine|pine]], [[wiki:birch|birch]], [[wiki:poplar|poplar]], [[wiki:spruce|spruce]], and [[wiki:maple|maple]] are also common. Lower regions of the valley are also home to [[wiki:oak|oak]], [[wiki:hornbeam|hornbeam]], and [[wiki:linden|linden]]. Other important plants in the Barovian valley include [[wiki:sunflower|sunflower]], [[wiki:peony|peony]], [[wiki:crocus|crocus]], [[wiki:wolfsbane|wolfsbane]],
[[wiki:hellesbore|hellesbore]], and [[wiki:wild_rose|wild rose]].

===Crops===
Barovia's low temperatures and scant sunlight make it unsuitable for many crops, but Barovian farmers eke out an existence raising crops appropriate to the local climate. Throughout the agricultural year, farmers harvest [[wiki:root vegetables|root vegetables]] including [[wiki:beets|beets]] and [[wiki:carrots|carrots]]; cruciferous vegetables such as [[wiki:broccoli|broccoli]], [[wiki:cauliflower|cauliflower]], cabbage, and [[wiki:spinach|spinach]]; and [[wiki:broad bean|broad beans]], [[wiki:lentils|lentils]], and other [[wiki:pulses|pulses]]. Summer brings local fruits including [[wiki:apricots|apricots]], [[wiki:currants|currants]], [[wiki:mulberries|mulberries]], [[wiki:melons|melons]], [[wiki:sour cherries|sour cherries]], and [[wiki:strawberries|strawberries]], as well as [[wiki:summer squash|summer squash]]. In autumn, Barovians harvest grains, predominiately [[wiki:rye|rye]] and [[wiki:wheat|wheat]]; seeds and nuts including [[wiki:sunflower seeds|sunflower seeds]] and [[wiki:hazelnuts|hazelnuts]]; and fall fruits including [[wiki:pear|pears]], [[wiki:apple|apples]], [[wiki:quince|quinces]], and [[wiki:grape|grapes]]. In winter, few crops are harvested but [[wiki:onion|onions]] and [[wiki:garlic|garlic]], and [[wiki:chestnut|chestnuts]] and [[wiki:acorn|acorns]] are gathered from the surrounding forest.

Most of the crops in Barovia are darker, smaller, and more shriveled than average, due to prevailing low-light conditions.

==Settlements==
===[[Castle Ravenloft]]===
===[[Ravenna]]===
===[[Vallaki]]===

Barovia

2025-02-11T20:51:02Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''Barovia''' was the name given to a valley surrounded by a [[mysterious fog]] which prevented entry and egress. Named for [[Barov von Zarovich]], an ancestor of the line of [[Strahd XIII von Zarovich]], Barovia was previously inhabited by the [[forest folk]] before its conquest and settlement by [[Strahd I von Zarovich]] and his army of [[Barovians]] c. 350 of the [[Barovian Calendar]]. The valley of Barovia is also inhabited by the [[Vistani]], a nomadic people who are said to possess the secret of traversing the fog.

==Climate==
Barovia is eternally covered in a layer of clouds, with the open sky rarely visible through them except on the most clement days. Its general temperature and climate classification is [[wiki:Humid_continental_climate#Koppen_Dfb|hemiboreal]], although it approaches the [[wiki:Subarctic_climate|subarctic]] due to its reduced temperature from lack of sunlight. [[Winter|Winters]] are cold, though snow is generally seen only in [[Sečen]]; the other winter months are typified by sleet and freezing rain. [[Spring|Springs]] and [[autumn|autumns]] are chilly, with temperatures averaging in the low 40°F, and [[summer|summers]] are mild, averaging in the mid-50°F. Precipitation is common throughout the year but heaviest during the late spring and summer, with thunderstorms common during the month of [[Treven]]. Due to the high humidity and mysterious curse, fog is common throughout the year.

===Flora===

Barovia is dominated by [[wiki:Temperate_coniferous_forest|temperate coniferous forest]], characterized by [[wiki:beech|beech]] and [[wiki:Silver_fir|silver fir]]. [[Wiki:larch|Larch]], [[wiki:pine|pine]], [[wiki:birch|birch]], [[wiki:poplar|poplar]], [[wiki:spruce|spruce]], and [[wiki:maple|maple]] are also common. Lower regions of the valley are also home to [[wiki:oak|oak]], [[wiki:hornbeam|hornbeam]], and [[wiki:linden|linden]].

===Crops===
Barovia's low temperatures and scant sunlight make it unsuitable for many crops, but Barovian farmers eke out an existence raising crops appropriate to the local climate. Throughout the agricultural year, farmers harvest [[wiki:root vegetables|root vegetables]] including [[wiki:beets|beets]] and [[wiki:carrots|carrots]]; cruciferous vegetables such as [[wiki:broccoli|broccoli]], [[wiki:cauliflower|cauliflower]], cabbage, and [[wiki:spinach|spinach]]; and [[wiki:broad bean|broad beans]], [[wiki:lentils|lentils]], and other [[wiki:pulses|pulses]]. Summer brings local fruits including [[wiki:apricots|apricots]], [[wiki:currants|currants]], [[wiki:mulberries|mulberries]], [[wiki:melons|melons]], [[wiki:sour cherries|sour cherries]], and [[wiki:strawberries|strawberries]], as well as [[wiki:summer squash|summer squash]]. In autumn, Barovians harvest grains, predominiately [[wiki:rye|rye]] and [[wiki:wheat|wheat]]; seeds and nuts including [[wiki:sunflower seeds|sunflower seeds]] and [[wiki:hazelnuts|hazelnuts]]; and fall fruits including [[wiki:pear|pears]], [[wiki:apple|apples]], [[wiki:quince|quinces]], and [[wiki:grape|grapes]]. In winter, few crops are harvested but [[wiki:onion|onions]] and [[wiki:garlic|garlic]], and [[wiki:chestnut|chestnuts]] and [[wiki:acorn|acorns]] are gathered from the surrounding forest.

Most of the crops in Barovia are darker, smaller, and more shriveled than average, due to prevailing low-light conditions.

==Settlements==
===[[Castle Ravenloft]]===
===[[Ravenna]]===
===[[Vallaki]]===

The Fool

2025-02-07T18:45:07Z

Dungeonmaster: Removed redirect to The Fool (Cartarok)

'''The Fool''' may refer to:
* [[The Fool (Constellation)]]
* [[The Fool (Cartarok)]]
* Any number of the protagonists of the [[Codex Baroviana]]

The Fool

2025-02-07T18:43:51Z

Dungeonmaster: Dungeonmaster moved page The Fool to The Fool (Cartarok)

#REDIRECT [[The Fool (Cartarok)]]

The Fool (Cartarok)

2025-02-07T18:43:51Z

Dungeonmaster: Dungeonmaster moved page The Fool to The Fool (Cartarok)

[[File:0-fool.jpg|thumb]]

The Celestial Wheel

2025-02-07T18:41:01Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''The Celestial Wheel''' is a conceptual, cosmological framework used by the [[Vistani]] and the ancient peoples of [[Barovia]] to plot the changing of the seasons and foretell the future, in which the Arcane and Royal cards of the [[Cartarok]] represent stars, planets, constellations and other elements of the sidereal calendar. Each season was assigned seven cards: one for each of the five seasonal zodiac signs, plus two representing the [[wandering stars]] associated with that season.

<imagemap>
File:celestialwheel.jpg|thumb|center|500px|alt=The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel, represented with cartarok icons. Icons are clickable.

rect 906 22 2000 195 [[The Last Judgment]]
rect 1077 214 1373 388 [[Death]]
rect 1216 394 1515 570 [[Chaos]]
rect 1521 582 1695 880 [[The Stars]]
rect 1710 750 1887 1053 [[The Creatures of the Deep]]
rect 1904 927 2079 1228 [[The Innocent]]
rect 1708 1078 1880 1379 [[The Earth]]
rect 1525 1242 1698 1546 [[The Fool]]
rect 1235 1550 1535 1726 [[The Union]]
rect 1082 1762 1382 1942 [[The Rider]]
rect 919 1970 1217 2145 [[The Sun]]
rect 757 1759 1056 1939 [[Strength]]
rect 628 1564 928 1740 [[The Monk]]
rect 441 1255 613 1558 [[Wisdom]]
rect 246 1101 420 1404 [[Retribution]]
rect 46 924 223 1219 [[The Temptress]]
rect 244 747 420 1048 [[Man and Beast]]
rect 438 585 610 885 [[The Wizard]]
rect 613 400 916 576 [[The Devil]]
rect 751 211 1050 390 [[The Tower]]
rect 1785 324 1954 621 [[The Queen of Chalices]]
rect 1809 1488 1984 1792 [[The King of Chalices]]
rect 1501 1824 1801 1996 [[The Queen of Coins]]
rect 369 1833 673 2016 [[The King of Coins]]
rect 196 1522 361 1821 [[The Queen of Wands]]
rect 198 325 378 625 [[The King of Wands]]
rect 396 130 684 309 [[The Queen of Swords]]
rect 1491 135 1788 315 [[The King of Swords]]
rect 985 724 1164 1026 [[Fortune]]
rect 931 1038 1335 1212 [[The Sky]]
</imagemap>

==The House of Dawn:==
The [[House of Dawn]] roughly corresponds to the [[Spring]] months of the [[Barovian Calendar|Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Svitani]], Prince of the Morning, particularly the constellation of [[The Youth]].

* [[The Stars]] represents the constellation of [[The Lamp]]
* [[The Creatures of the Deep]] represents the constellation of [[The Trout]]
* [[The Innocent]] represents the constellation of [[The Youth]]
* [[The Earth]] represents the constellation of [[The Plow]]
* [[The Fool]] represents the constellation of [[The Fool]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Spring is associated with the suit of [[Chalices]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Invida]], the Dawn Star, represented by the [[Abbess]]; and [[Mandre]], the Bright Star, represented by the [[Hierophant]].

==The House of Day:==
The [[House of Day]] roughly corresponds to the [[Summer]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the old god [[Vara]], The Lord of Sheaves, particularly the constellation of [[The Crown]].

* [[The Union]] represents the constellation of [[The Lovers]]
* [[The Rider]] represents the constellation of [[The Chariot]]
* [[The Sun]] represents the constellation of [[The Crown]]
* [[Strength]] represents the constellation of [[The Throne]]
* [[The Monk]] represents the constellation of [[The Yeoman]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Summer is associated with the suit of [[Coins]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, represented by the [[Sybarite]]; and [[Zravost]], the Golden Star, represented by the [[Miser]].

==The House of Twilight:==
The [[House of Twilight]] roughly corresponds to the [[Autumn]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the old god [[Serka]], The Raven Queen, particularly the constellation of [[The Maiden]].

* [[Wisdom]] represents the constellation of [[The Raven]]
* [[Retribution]] represents the constellation of [[The Scythe]]
* [[The Temptress]] represents the constellation of [[The Maiden]]
* [[Man and Beast]] represents the constellation of [[The Archer]]
* [[The Wizard]] represents the constellation of [[The Sorcerer]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Autumn is associated with the suit of [[Wands]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, represented by the [[Witch]]; and [[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, represented by the [[Illusionist]].

==The House of Night:==
The [[House of Night]] roughly corresponds to the [[Winter]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Iarna]], The Mother of Night, particularly the constellation of [[The Scales]].

* [[The Devil]] represents the constellation of [[The Devil]]
* [[The Tower]] represents the constellation of [[The Prisoner]]
* [[The Last Judgement]] represents the constellation of [[The Scales]]
* [[Death]] represents the constellation of [[The Hanged Man]]
* [[Chaos]] represents the constellation of [[The Midwife]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Winter is associated with the suit of [[Swords]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ura]], the Dark Star, represented by the [[Widow]]; and [[Razoi]], the Blood Star, represented by the [[Voivode]].

==The Axis of the Heavens:==
In addition to the cards of the four seasonal houses, two cards represent the North Star around which the constellations travel and the Vault of the Heavens through which they make their journey.
* [[Fortune (Cartarok)|Fortune]] represents the [[Avera]], the North Star, Goddess of Fate
* [[The Sky (Cartarok|The Sky]] represents the Vault of the Heavens

The Celestial Wheel

2025-02-07T18:40:06Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''The Celestial Wheel''' is a conceptual, cosmological framework used by the [[Vistani]] and the ancient peoples of [[Barovia]] to plot the changing of the seasons and foretell the future, in which the Arcane and Royal cards of the [[Cartarok]] represent stars, planets, constellations and other elements of the sidereal calendar. Each season was assigned seven cards: one for each of the five seasonal zodiac signs, plus two representing the [[wandering stars]] associated with that season.

<imagemap>
File:celestialwheel.jpg|thumb|center|500px|alt=The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel, represented with cartarok icons. Icons are clickable.

rect 906 22 2000 195 [[The Last Judgment]]
rect 1077 214 1373 388 [[Death]]
rect 1216 394 1515 570 [[Chaos]]
rect 1521 582 1695 880 [[The Stars]]
rect 1710 750 1887 1053 [[The Creatures of the Deep]]
rect 1904 927 2079 1228 [[The Innocent]]
rect 1708 1078 1880 1379 [[The Earth]]
rect 1525 1242 1698 1546 [[The Fool]]
rect 1235 1550 1535 1726 [[The Union]]
rect 1082 1762 1382 1942 [[The Rider]]
rect 919 1970 1217 2145 [[The Sun]]
rect 757 1759 1056 1939 [[Strength]]
rect 628 1564 928 1740 [[The Monk]]
rect 441 1255 613 1558 [[Wisdom]]
rect 246 1101 420 1404 [[Retribution]]
rect 46 924 223 1219 [[The Temptress]]
rect 244 747 420 1048 [[Man and Beast]]
rect 438 585 610 885 [[The Wizard]]
rect 613 400 916 576 [[The Devil]]
rect 751 211 1050 390 [[The Tower]]
rect 1785 324 1954 621 [[The Queen of Chalices]]
rect 1809 1488 1984 1792 [[The King of Chalices]]
rect 1501 1824 1801 1996 [[The Queen of Coins]]
rect 369 1833 673 2016 [[The King of Coins]]
rect 196 1522 361 1821 [[The Queen of Wands]]
rect 198 325 378 625 [[The King of Wands]]
rect 396 130 684 309 [[The Queen of Swords]]
rect 1491 135 1788 315 [[The King of Swords]]
rect 985 724 1164 1026 [[Fortune]]
rect 931 1038 1335 1212 [[The Sky]]
</imagemap>

==The House of Dawn:==
The [[House of Dawn]] roughly corresponds to the [[Spring]] months of the [[Barovian Calendar|Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Svitani]], Prince of the Morning, particularly the constellation of [[The Youth]].

* [[The Stars]] represents the constellation of [[The Lamp]]
* [[The Creatures of the Deep]] represents the constellation of [[The Trout]]
* [[The Innocent]] represents the constellation of [[The Youth]]
* [[The Earth]] represents the constellation of [[The Plow]]
* [[The Fool]] represents the constellation of [[The Fool]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Spring is associated with the suit of [[Chalices]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Invida]], the Dawn Star, represented by the [[Abbess]]; and [[Mandre]], the Bright Star, represented by the [[Hierophant]].

==The House of Day:==
The [[House of Day]] roughly corresponds to the [[Summer]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the old god [[Vara]], The Lord of Sheaves, particularly the constellation of [[The Crown]].

* [[The Union]] represents the constellation of [[The Lovers]]
* [[The Rider]] represents the constellation of [[The Chariot]]
* [[The Sun]] represents the constellation of [[The Crown]]
* [[Strength]] represents the constellation of [[The Throne]]
* [[The Monk]] represents the constellation of [[The Yeoman]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Summer is associated with the suit of [[Coins]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, represented by the [[Sybarite]]; and [[Zravost]], the Golden Star, represented by the [[Miser]].

==The House of Twilight:==
The [[House of Twilight]] roughly corresponds to the [[Autumn]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the old god [[Serka]], The Raven Queen, particularly the constellation of [[The Maiden]].

* [[Wisdom]] represents the constellation of [[The Raven]]
* [[Retribution]] represents the constellation of [[The Scythe]]
* [[The Temptress]] represents the constellation of [[The Maiden]]
* [[Man and Beast]] represents the constellation of [[The Archer]]
* [[The Wizard]] represents the constellation of [[The Sorcerer]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Autumn is associated with the suit of [[Wands]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, represented by the [[Witch]]; and [[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, represented by the [[Illusionist]].

==The House of Night:==
The [[House of Night]] roughly corresponds to the [[Winter]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Iarna]], The Mother of Night, particularly the constellation of [[The Scales]].

* [[The Devil]] represents the constellation of [[The Devil]]
* [[The Tower]] represents the constellation of [[The Prisoner]]
* [[The Last Judgement]] represents the constellation of [[The Scales]]
* [[Death]] represents the constellation of [[The Hanged Man]]
* [[Chaos]] represents the constellation of [[The Midwife]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Winter is associated with the suit of [[Swords]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ura]], the Dark Star, represented by the [[Widow]]; and [[Razoi]], the Blood Star, represented by the [[Voivode]].

==The Axis of the Heavens:==
In addition to the cards of the four seasonal houses, two cards represent the North Star around which the constellations travel and the Vault of the Heavens through which they make their journey.
* [[Fortune]] represents the [[Avera]], the North Star, Goddess of Fate
* [[The Sky]] represents the Vault of the Heavens

The Celestial Wheel

2025-02-07T18:39:37Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''The Celestial Wheel''' is a conceptual, cosmological framework used by the [[Vistani]] and the ancient peoples of [[Barovia]] to plot the changing of the seasons and foretell the future, in which the Arcane and Royal cards of the [[Cartarok]] represent stars, planets, constellations and other elements of the sidereal calendar. Each season was assigned seven cards: one for each of the five seasonal zodiac signs, plus two representing the [[wandering stars]] associated with that season.

<imagemap>
File:celestialwheel.jpg|thumb|center|500px|alt=The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel, represented with cartarok icons. Icons are clickable.

rect 906 22 2000 195 [[The Last Judgment]]
rect 1077 214 1373 388 [[Death]]
rect 1216 394 1515 570 [[Chaos]]
rect 1521 582 1695 880 [[The Stars]]
rect 1710 750 1887 1053 [[The Creatures of the Deep]]
rect 1904 927 2079 1228 [[The Innocent]]
rect 1708 1078 1880 1379 [[The Earth]]
rect 1525 1242 1698 1546 [[The Fool]]
rect 1235 1550 1535 1726 [[The Union]]
rect 1082 1762 1382 1942 [[The Rider]]
rect 919 1970 1217 2145 [[The Sun]]
rect 757 1759 1056 1939 [[Strength]]
rect 628 1564 928 1740 [[The Monk]]
rect 441 1255 613 1558 [[Wisdom]]
rect 246 1101 420 1404 [[Retribution]]
rect 46 924 223 1219 [[The Temptress]]
rect 244 747 420 1048 [[Man and Beast]]
rect 438 585 610 885 [[The Wizard]]
rect 613 400 916 576 [[The Devil]]
rect 751 211 1050 390 [[The Tower]]
rect 1785 324 1954 621 [[The Queen of Chalices]]
rect 1809 1488 1984 1792 [[The King of Chalices]]
rect 1501 1824 1801 1996 [[The Queen of Coins]]
rect 369 1833 673 2016 [[The King of Coins]]
rect 196 1522 361 1821 [[The Queen of Wands]]
rect 198 325 378 625 [[The King of Wands]]
rect 396 130 684 309 [[The Queen of Swords]]
rect 1491 135 1788 315 [[The King of Swords]]
rect 985 724 1164 1026 [[Fortune]]
rect 931 1038 1335 1212 [[The Sky]]
</imagemap>

==The House of Dawn:==
The [[House of Dawn]] roughly corresponds to the [[Spring]] months of the [[Barovian Calendar|Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Svitani]], Prince of the Morning, particularly the constellation of [[The Youth]].

* [[The Stars]] represents the constellation of [[The Lamp]]
* [[The Creatures of the Deep]] represents the constellation of [[The Trout]]
* [[The Innocent]] represents the constellation of [[The Youth]]
* [[The Earth]] represents the constellation of [[The Plow]]
* [[The Fool]] represents the constellation of [[The Fool]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Spring is associated with the suit of [[Chalices]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Invida]], the Dawn Star, represented by the [[Abbess]]; and [[Mandre]], the Bright Star, represented by the [[Hierophant]].

==The House of Day:==
The [[House of Day]] roughly corresponds to the [[Summer]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the old god [[Vara]], The Lord of Sheaves, particularly the constellation of [[The Crown]].

* [[The Union]] represents the constellation of [[The Lovers]]
* [[The Rider]] represents the constellation of [[The Chariot]]
* [[The Sun]] represents the constellation of [[The Crown]]
* [[Strength]] represents the constellation of [[The Throne]]
* [[The Monk]] represents the constellation of [[The Yeoman]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Summer is associated with the suit of [[Coins]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, represented by the [[Sybarite]]; and [[Zravost]], the Golden Star, represented by the [[Miser]].

==The House of Twilight:==
The [[House of Twilight]] roughly corresponds to the [[Autumn]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the old god [[Serka]], The Raven Queen, particularly the constellation of [[The Maiden]].

* [[Wisdom]] represents the constellation of [[The Raven]]
* [[Retribution]] represents the constellation of [[The Scythe]]
* [[The Temptress]] represents the constellation of [[The Maiden]]
* [[Man and Beast]] represents the constellation of [[The Archer]]
* [[The Wizard]] represents the constellation of [[The Sorcerer]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Autumn is associated with the suit of [[Wands]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, represented by the [[Witch]]; and [[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, represented by the [[Illusionist]].

==The House of Night:==
The [[House of Night]] roughly corresponds to the [[Winter]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Iarna]], The Mother of Night, particularly the constellation of [[The Scales]].

* [[The Devil]] represents the constellation of [[The Devil]]
* [[The Tower]] represents the constellation of [[The Prisoner]]
* [[The Last Judgement]] represents the constellation of [[The Scales]]
* [[Death]] represents the constellation of [[The Hanged Man]]
* [[Chaos]] represents the constellation of [[The Midwife]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Winter is associated with the suit of [[Swords]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ura]], the Dark Star, represented by the [[Widow]]; and [[Razoi]], the Blood Star, represented by the [[Voivode]].

====The Axis of the Heavens:====
In addition to the cards of the four seasonal houses, two cards represent the North Star around which the constellations travel and the Vault of the Heavens through which they make their journey.
* [[Fortune]] represents the [[Avera]], the North Star, Goddess of Fate
* [[The Sky]] represents the Vault of the Heavens

The Celestial Wheel

2025-02-07T18:38:01Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''The Celestial Wheel''' is a conceptual, cosmological framework used by the [[Vistani]] and the ancient peoples of [[Barovia]] to plot the changing of the seasons and foretell the future, in which the Arcane and Royal cards of the [[Cartarok]] represent stars, planets, constellations and other elements of the sidereal calendar. Each season was assigned seven cards: one for each of the five seasonal zodiac signs, plus two representing the [[wandering stars]] associated with that season.

<imagemap>
File:celestialwheel.jpg|thumb|center|500px|alt=The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel, represented with cartarok icons. Icons are clickable.

rect 906 22 2000 195 [[The Last Judgment]]
rect 1077 214 1373 388 [[Death]]
rect 1216 394 1515 570 [[Chaos]]
rect 1521 582 1695 880 [[The Stars]]
rect 1710 750 1887 1053 [[The Creatures of the Deep]]
rect 1904 927 2079 1228 [[The Innocent]]
rect 1708 1078 1880 1379 [[The Earth]]
rect 1525 1242 1698 1546 [[The Fool]]
rect 1235 1550 1535 1726 [[The Union]]
rect 1082 1762 1382 1942 [[The Rider]]
rect 919 1970 1217 2145 [[The Sun]]
rect 757 1759 1056 1939 [[Strength]]
rect 628 1564 928 1740 [[The Monk]]
rect 441 1255 613 1558 [[Wisdom]]
rect 246 1101 420 1404 [[Retribution]]
rect 46 924 223 1219 [[The Temptress]]
rect 244 747 420 1048 [[Man and Beast]]
rect 438 585 610 885 [[The Wizard]]
rect 613 400 916 576 [[The Devil]]
rect 751 211 1050 390 [[The Tower]]
rect 1785 324 1954 621 [[The Queen of Chalices]]
rect 1809 1488 1984 1792 [[The King of Chalices]]
rect 1501 1824 1801 1996 [[The Queen of Coins]]
rect 369 1833 673 2016 [[The King of Coins]]
rect 196 1522 361 1821 [[The Queen of Wands]]
rect 198 325 378 625 [[The King of Wands]]
rect 396 130 684 309 [[The Queen of Swords]]
rect 1491 135 1788 315 [[The King of Swords]]
rect 985 724 1164 1026 [[Fortune]]
rect 931 1038 1335 1212 [[The Sky]]
</imagemap>

==The House of Dawn:==
The [[House of Dawn]] roughly corresponds to the [[Spring]] months of the [[Barovian Calendar|Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Svitani]], Prince of the Morning, particularly the constellation of [[The Youth]].

* [[The Stars]] represents the constellation of [[The Lamp]]
* [[The Creatures of the Deep]] represents the constellation of [[The Trout]]
* [[The Innocent]] represents the constellation of [[The Youth]]
* [[The Earth]] represents the constellation of [[The Plow]]
* [[The Fool]] represents the constellation of [[The Fool]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Spring is associated with the suit of [[Chalices]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Invida]], the Dawn Star, represented by the [[Abbess]]; and [[Mandre]], the Bright Star, represented by the [[Hierophant]].

==The House of Day:==
The [[House of Day]] roughly corresponds to the [[Summer]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the old god [[Vara]], The Lord of Sheaves, particularly the constellation of [[The Crown]].

* [[The Union]] represents the constellation of [[The Lovers]]
* [[The Rider]] represents the constellation of [[The Chariot]]
* [[The Sun]] represents the constellation of [[The Crown]]
* [[Strength]] represents the constellation of [[The Throne]]
* [[The Monk]] represents the constellation of [[The Yeoman]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Summer is associated with the suit of [[Coins]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, represented by the [[Sybarite]]; and [[Zravost]], the Golden Star, represented by the [[Miser]].

==The House of Twilight:==
The [[House of Twilight]] roughly corresponds to the [[Autumn]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the old god [[Serka]], The Raven Queen, particularly the constellation of [[The Maiden]].

* [[Wisdom]] represents the constellation of [[The Raven]]
* [[Retribution]] represents the constellation of [[The Scythe]]
* [[The Temptress]] represents the constellation of [[The Maiden]]
* [[Man and Beast]] represents the constellation of [[The Archer]]
* [[The Wizard]] represents the constellation of [[The Sorcerer]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Autumn is associated with the suit of [[Wands]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, represented by the [[Witch]]; and [[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, represented by the [[Illusionist]].

==The House of Night:==
The [[House of Night]] roughly corresponds to the [[Winter]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Iarna]], The Mother of Night, particularly the constellation of [[The Scales]].

* [[The Devil]] represents the constellation of [[The Devil]]
* [[The Tower]] represents the constellation of [[The Prisoner]]
* [[The Last Judgement]] represents the constellation of [[The Scales]]
* [[Death]] represents the constellation of [[The Hanged Man]]
* [[Chaos]] represents the constellation of [[The Midwife]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Winter is associated with the suit of [[Swords]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ura]], the Dark Star, represented by the [[Widow]]; and [[Razoi]], the Blood Star, represented by the [[Voivode]].

====The Axis of the Heavens:====
In addition to the cards of the four seasonal houses, two cards represent the North Star around which the constellations travel and the Vault of the Heavens through which they make their journey.
* [[Fortune]] represents the [[Avera]], the North Star
* [[The Sky]] represents the Vault of the Heavens

Codex Baroviana

2025-02-07T18:36:51Z

Dungeonmaster:

== Introduction ==

===[[Archivist's Note]]===
From the records of Fr. Bonaventure L'Heureaux, Grand Archivist Prelate.
===[[Prologue]]===
A brief accounting of the adventurers' lives before traveling to [[Barovia]].
== The Travelers' Tales ==

===[[Session One]]===
In which our heroes find themselves in [[Barovia|a strange land]], their fates inextricably linked, and seek shelter in a [[Moraru Manor|most uncanny villa]].
===[[Session Two]]===
Wherein the adventurers plunge into the crypts beneath this unholy manor, slaying the [[Walter Moraru|twisted monster]] that lurks within its heart.
===[[Session Three]]===
An accounting of the party's entry into the castle-town of [[Ravenna]], the divers personages they find there, and their encounter with a [[Doru Donavitch|young man bearing a horrible curse]].
===[[Session Four]]===
Wherein our heroes participate in a bizarre Barovian [[Religion in Barovia|religious rite]] to lay to rest the souls of the [[burgomaster]] and the priest's departed son.
===[[Session Five]]===
In which the adventurers, their ranks fortified by new companions, depart from Ravenna to seek the guidance of [[Madam Eva]] the fortune-teller and the safety of the fortified city of [[Vallaki]].
===[[Session Six]]===
Wherein the travelers leave the safety of Madam Eva's camp at [[Tser Pool]] and continue on their way to Vallaki.
==Index==
===[[Dramatis Personae]]===
An accounting of the many personages involved in the adventurer's tales.
===[[Gazetteer]]===
The lands and locales through which our intrepid heroes passed on their journey.
===[[Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Barovians.
===[[The Celestial Wheel]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Vistani.
===[[Cartarokka|The Cartarokka]]===
The Vistani tradition of augury and divination.

Barovian Calendar

2025-02-07T18:32:39Z

Dungeonmaster:

The '''Barovian Calendar''' was a system of datekeeping peculiar to the county of [[Barovia]]. The [[wikipedia:lunisolar_calendar|lunisolar calendar]] consisted of twelve lunar months of twenty-eight days, each month corresponding to a complete lunar cycle, with an [[wikipedia:intercalary_month|intercalary month]] inserted every seven years to correct the orientation of the months to the seasons of the 340-day tropical year.

The first day of the Barovian calendar was reckoned from the [[wikipedia:new_moon|new moon]] nearest the [[wikipedia:winter_solstice|winter solstice]]. The months were as follows:
===The Lunar Months===
<ol>
<li>[[Sečen]], "the burning moon" (referencing the ritual fires lit during this period)</li>
<li>[[Lyiuten]], "the lengthening moon" (in reference to the lengthening of days after the solstice)</li>
<li>[[Břežen]], "the birthing moon" (as Barovian deer, rabbits and other creatures often gave birth during this period, and metaphorically the new spring was being born)</li>
<li>[[Treven]], "the treacherous moon" (a time of spring storms and unpredictable weather)</li>
<li>[[Květen]], "the flowering moon" (when fruit trees began to bloom)</li>
<li>[[Červen]], "the fruiting moon" (the typical orchard harvest period)</li>
<li>[[Lyipek]], "the linden-blossom moon" (referring to the blooming of the [[wikipedia:Tilia_platyphyllos|linden tree]], an important [[wikipedia:honey_plant|honey plant]])</li>
<li>[[Žovten]], "the golden moon" (for the ripening wheat and turnning of [[wikipedia:deciduous|deciduous]] leaves)</li>
<li>[[Sierpen]], "the sickle moon" (the time of harvesting and threshing wheat)</li>
<li>[[Groznik]], "the new-wine moon" (the grape harvest and [[wikipedia:wine-pressing|wine-pressing]] season)</li>
<li>[[Listopek]], "the offering moon" (during which the perishable fruits of the harvest season were consumed or sacrificed)</li>
<li>[[Čežnik]], "the corpse moon" (referencing the infertility of the earth and the death of many plants and animals at the onset of winter)</li></ol>
====The Intercalary Month====
Every seven years, it was necessary to include an intercalary month between Čežnik and Sečen, that the latter's bonfire festivals might correctly herald the lengthening of the days. This was:
<ol start=13><li>[[Prožhinek]], "the wailing moon" (a period of extended mourning and lamentation during which [[Barovians]] sought [[wikipedia:absolution|forgiveness for their sins]] from [[Mother Night]] and made offerings to the [[Lord of Light]] to ward off the winter)</li></ol>

===The Astral Signs===
The Barovian sidereal year was divided into twenty zodiacal constellations, or signs, of 17 days. These were further subdivided into four houses, which represented the seasons: the [[House of Dawn]], the [[House of Day]], the [[House of Twilight]], and the [[House of Night]].

====The House of Dawn (Spring)====
<ol>
<li>[[The Lamp]]</li>
<li>[[The Trout]]</li>
<li>[[The Youth]] (Spring Equinox)</li>
<li>[[The Plow]]</li>
<li>[[The Jester]]</li>
</ol>
====The House of Day (Summer)====
<ol start=6>
<li>[[The Lovers]]</li>
<li>[[The Chariot]]</li>
<li>[[The Crown]] (Summer Solstice)</li>
<li>[[The Throne]]</li>
<li>[[The Yeoman]]</li>
</ol>
====The House of Twilight (Autumn)====
<ol start=11>
<li>[[The Raven]]</li>
<li>[[The Scythe]]</li>
<li>[[The Maid]] (Autumn Equinox)</li>
<li>[[The Archer]]</li>
<li>[[The Magician]]</li>
</ol>
====The House of Night (Winter)====
<ol start=16>
<li>[[The Devil]]</li>
<li>[[The Prisoner]]</li>
<li>[[The Hanged Man]] (Winter Equinox)</li>
<li>[[The Scales]]</li>
<li>[[The Midwife]]</li>
</ol>
===The Barovian Week===
A Barovian week consisted of seven days, each week corresponding to one phase of the moon, with each quarter-moon falling on the first day of the new week (Luna).
====Days of the Barovian Week====
<ol>
<li>[[Luna]], "moon-day"</li>
<li>[[Tornik]], "second-day"</li>
<li>[[Streda]], "third-day"</li>
<li>[[Čvertek]] "fourth-day"</li>
<li>[[Pátek]], "fifth-day"</li>
<li>[[Subota]], "market-day"</li>
<li>[[Vaskrisenie]], "silent-day"</li>
</ol>
===Barovian Dates===
Barovians typically related the date in terms of the number of times the day of the week had elapsed during the month, thus the 128th day after the winter solstice in a given year might plausibly be rendered "3 Tornik, Červen, 745," i.e., the second day of the third phase of the seventh moon cycle since the winter solstice, of the year 745 (indexing event of the year 1 unknown).

Wandering stars

2025-02-07T18:32:12Z

Dungeonmaster:

The '''wandering stars''', sometimes called '''planets''', were [[stars]] in the [[Barovia|Barovian]] sky that did not remain fixed in the [[celestial sphere]] but instead followed their own paths, sometimes moving in a direction retrograde to the progression of the zodiac, or even disappearing from the sky entirely for months or years. Because they resisted the natural order of the [[Celestial Wheel]], they were associated with demons by the ancient people of Barovia, a tradition eventually assimilated into modern Barovian folk religion.

Barovian astrologers recognized eight planets:
*[[Invida]], the Dawn Star, most visible just before sunrise. Invida was the goddess of jealousy and was associated with the spring.
*[[Mandre]], the Bright Star, the brightest object in the Barovian Sky. Mandre was the god of pride and was associated with the spring.
*[[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, the largest object in the Barovian Sky despite its dim light. Ul-Katiba was the goddess of gluttony and was associated with the summer.
*[[Zravost]], the Golden Star, whose yellow gleam connected it to the god of greed, associated with the summer.
*[[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, most visible just after sunset. Inselune was the goddess of despair and sloth and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Lasitat]], the Errant Star, whose path was the most erratic of all the celestial objects. Lasitat was the god of deceit and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Ura]], the Dark Star, a barely perceptible planet whose motion was so slow almost to seem fixed. Ura was the goddess of hatred and was associated with the winter.
*[[Razoi]], the Blood Star, whose red color connected it to the god of wrath, associated with winter.

Wandering stars

2025-02-07T18:31:34Z

Dungeonmaster:

The '''wandering stars''', sometimes called '''planets''', were [[stars]] in the [[Barovian]] sky that did not remain fixed in the [[celestial sphere]] but instead followed their own paths, sometimes moving in a direction retrograde to the progression of the zodiac, or even disappearing from the sky entirely for months or years. Because they resisted the natural order of the [[Celestial Wheel]], they were associated with demons by the ancient people of Barovia, a tradition eventually assimilated into modern Barovian folk religion.

Barovian astrologers recognized eight planets:
*[[Invida]], the Dawn Star, most visible just before sunrise. Invida was the goddess of jealousy and was associated with the spring.
*[[Mandre]], the Bright Star, the brightest object in the Barovian Sky. Mandre was the god of pride and was associated with the spring.
*[[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, the largest object in the Barovian Sky despite its dim light. Ul-Katiba was the goddess of gluttony and was associated with the summer.
*[[Zravost]], the Golden Star, whose yellow gleam connected it to the god of greed, associated with the summer.
*[[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, most visible just after sunset. Inselune was the goddess of despair and sloth and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Lasitat]], the Errant Star, whose path was the most erratic of all the celestial objects. Lasitat was the god of deceit and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Ura]], the Dark Star, a barely perceptible planet whose motion was so slow almost to seem fixed. Ura was the goddess of hatred and was associated with the winter.
*[[Razoi]], the Blood Star, whose red color connected it to the god of wrath, associated with winter.

Cartarokka

2025-02-07T18:30:01Z

Dungeonmaster:

The '''Cartarokka''', or cartarok deck, was a set of cards used by the Vistani for ritual purposes, including augury, divination, and astrology, as well as gambling and gaming. It was also an important part of their oral tradition, with a variety of stories, legends, and correspondences associated with each card. The cartarokka comprised two main classes of cards: the Arcane Cartarokka, a suit composed of trump cards which represented spiritual and cosmological elements; and the Mundane Cartarokka, consisting of four suits comprising ten cards each.

==The Arcane Cartarokka:==
The Arcane Cartarokka had no numerical value and were ordered only by convention. These were the cards most frequently used for divination, although in certain cases part or all of the Mundane Cartarokka was included.

<ol start="0">
<li>[[The Fool]]</li>
<li>[[Chaos]]</li>
<li>[[The Sun (Cartarok)|The Sun]]</li>
<li>[[The Earth (Cartarok)|The Earth]]</li>
<li>[[The Sky (Cartarok)|The Sky]]</li>
<li>[[Man and Beast]]</li>
<li>[[The Stars (Cartarok)|The Stars]]</li>
<li>[[The Creatures of the Deep]]</li>
<li>[[The Temptress]]</li>
<li>[[Retribution]]</li>
<li>[[The Innocent]]</li>
<li>[[Strength (Cartarok)|Strength]]</li>
<li>[[Wisdom (Cartarok)|Wisdom]]</li>
<li>[[The Union]]</li>
<li>[[The Devil (Cartarok)|The Devil]]</li>
<li>[[The Wizard (Cartarok)|The Wizard]]</li>
<li>[[The Last Judgment (Cartarok)|The Last Judgment]]</li>
<li>[[Death (Cartarok)|Death]]</li>
<li>[[The Monk (Cartarok)|The Monk]]</li>
<li>[[The Tower (Cartarok)|The Tower]]</li>
<li>[[Fortune (Cartarok)|Fortune]]</li>
<li>[[The Rider]]</li></ol>

==The Mundane Cartarokka==
The Mundane Cartarokka was divided into four suits of cards with values from one to ten, each traditionally associated with a figure or archetype. The 7, 8, 9, and 10 of each suit were traditionally referred to as the knave, knight, queen, and king of their suit, respectively. The king and queen were sometimes distinguished from the other mundane cards as the "Royal Cartarokka," and were used in the traditional formulation of the [[Celestial Wheel]] to represent the [[wandering stars]].

====Chalices:====
# The Druid
# The Friar
# The Confessor
# The Healer
# The Barber
# The Gravedigger
# The Zealot
# The Inquisitor
# [[The Abbess (Cartarok)|The Abbess]]
# [[The Hierophant]]
====Coins:====
# The Hedonist
# The Marauder
# The Artisan
# The Merchant
# The Vintner
# The Beggar
# The Grave-Robber
# The Usurer
# [[The Sybarite]]
# [[The Miser]]
====Wands:====
# The Alchemist
# The Enchanter
# The Soothsayer
# The Abjurer
# The Conjurer
# The Prestidigitator
# The Charlatan
# The Curator
# [[The Witch]]
# [[The Illusionist]]
====Swords:====
# The Knight Errant
# The Paladin
# The Sentry
# The Mercenary
# The Warrior-Woman
# The Warmonger
# The Traitor
# The Despot
# [[The Widow]]
# [[The Voivode]]

Ravenloft

2025-02-07T18:29:18Z

Dungeonmaster: Redirected page to Castle Ravenloft

#REDIRECT [[Castle Ravenloft]]

Session One

2025-02-07T18:27:35Z

Dungeonmaster:

<div style="float:left;">← [[Prologue]]</div><div style="float:right;">[[Session Two]] →</div></br>

On the first night, as I prepared to record the travelers' tale, they produced from their [[illustrated cards]] the sign of [[The Magician]], and each recounted an inexplicable or supernatural event from his or her past.

<blockquote>[[Slag]] remembered the image of a sword and shield, although he didn’t fully understand why those icons were important to him.</blockquote>

<blockquote>[[Millian]] remembered the horrible moment when her clan was crushed by a [[wikipedia:Ispolin|giant]]’s foot. She heard the voice of her [[wikipedia:Veneration_of_the_dead|long-dead grandmother]] crying out to her, telling her, “Take care of them! They are your children now!”</blockquote>

<blockquote>[[Jones]] remembered when his sister was abducted by supernatural, [[wikipedia:undead|undead]] forces, and he rallied the village to her rescue. Though he saved her, he knew he must dedicate his life to hunting evil.</blockquote>

I plunged the nib of my quill into the inkwell and, rapt, transcribed as they began their tale:

===The Glade===

Millian and Jones awoke in a field, in circumstances different from those in which they had separately fallen asleep, their weapons and many of their valuables missing. The two took stock of each other: Millian; a small, dark-skinned, wizened old [[wikipedia:halfling|Halfling]] matron, dressed in a baggy shift and adorned with braids and bones. Jones; a long-haired, unshaven man in the costume of a frontiersman. As they acquainted themselves and examined their surroundings, they found a hideously scarred body - Slag! a giant of a man, clad in rags, with [[wikipedia:Amnesia|no memory of his past]]. Their suspicions somewhat allayed by conversation, the party managed a small repast and took off in the direction of the [[Vistani]] wagons’ tracks, away from the discomfitingly nearby howls of the [[wolves]] and the advancing [[fog]].

===Moraru Manor===

After a day on the path, as the sun set, the company found the road improving beneath their feet and soon came upon a [[Moraru Manor|country manor home]]. Strangely, two children stood in the road - [[Rosavelda and Thornton Moraru]]. They begged the adventurers to help them drive the monster from their home and rescue their parents and baby brother [[Walter]]. The children were strangely vague about certain details. The heroes searched the outbuildings for improvised weapons, finding some farming implements, and entered the mansion as the sun set and the fog inexorably advanced. The house was richly appointed in fine textiles, portraits, and marble staircases, and seemed meticulously maintained. Slag, seeking further protection, removed a shield from the vestibule which bore a red windmill against a white field. In the main hall, Millian produced her tinderbox and lit the central fireplace, casting a ruddy light throughout the first floor. In the hunter’s den, they outfitted themselves with crossbows and found a deck of [[illustrated cards]], and in a cloakroom Millian found a child’s cloak and Jones a handsome top hat.

===The Drunkard===

Inspecting the kitchen, the company heard a pitiful moaning from the pantry - the drunken singing of [[Evžen the Derelict]], a local wino availing himself of the manor’s largesse. Millian, moved by some obscure matronly instinct, began baking the man bread. Meanwhile, he told the party of the Vistani Travelers, the nearby town of [[Ravenna]], and its castle, [[Ravenloft]] (prompting Jones to remark that the raven was an ancient totem of wisdom), and that this manor house was located so far out of town because the townspeople didn’t approve of what happened here. As they waited for the dough to rise, Evžen agreed to accompany the party and be their torchbearer.

===The Second Floor===

As they ascended the staircase, the party was confronted with a family portrait: a father, haughty and stout with a manicured mustache; a mother, sallow and adorned with expensive cosmetics, and the two children they met outside. Noting the ceremonial suits of armor, Slag found one that suited his purposes. Strange, tinny dance music emanated from beyond a door - a conservatory that fell silent as soon as they entered, adorned with figurines of the dancing dead. Perusing a library, they found a secret room behind a bookcase, where a leather-clad adventurer lay long dead, slumped over an open chest and riddled with darts. Corwin availed himself to the armor and the contents of the chest: [[deeds to the house]] and a certain [[windmill]], potions, scrolls, and tomes. In a desk nearby, a key, a lamp, a signet ring, writing supplies, and a letter:

<blockquote>''My obedient servant,<br/><br/>Do not allow yourself to believe that your pitiful conjury brought me to this land, or that I have any intention of leading you to immortality - at least the kind you seek. You believe your Dark Powers sent me? Perhaps. But neither they nor I would deign to perform any act at the request of beings so trifling. However many souls you have bled on your hidden altar, however many you have tortured in your dungeon, your feeble sorcery has earned you nothing but my scorn. You are but worms writhing in my earth.<br/><br/>Nevertheless, in my generosity I shall deign to accept your sacrifice, and return him to you—transformed. Accept this gift as a token of my power, and my infinite mercy in allowing you to persist in your wretchedness rather than snuffing you out entirely, as you doubtless deserve.<br/><br/>Your Lord and Master,<br/>[[Strahd|S.]]''</blockquote>

The nearby servants’ quarters held a dumbwaiter, by use of which Millian descended to inspect her dough. As they considered the next staircase, Evžen expressed his hesitations, unmoved by “allure of mysterious staircase,” but the party pressed on. Millian, contemplating Evžen, concluded that his fear was genuine but that he did not care whether he lived or died.

===The Third Floor===

As Slag surmounted the stairs and strode toward a door, a gauntlet buried itself in the wall beside him - an [[enchanted suit of armor]] had awoken and attacked! Peppering it with bolts, the gang slew the hollow knight, though not without Slag withstanding a beating one which, strangely, drew no blood. This floor, unlike the lower levels, was peeling and dilapidated. Looking down from a balcony, Corwin caught a glimpse of the children, but upon second glance they were not to be seen. In an adjoining room, they came upon a crib, attended by a strange shadow… “My baby!” she shrieked. “[[Gustav]] said he was theirs, that he belonged to the father…but he is mine! I won’t let you take him again!” Jones, having seen enough, fired his crossbow. Enraged, the creature drained the life from him, but his consciousness was restored through Millian’s magic. Evžen, showing heroism, lunged at the creature, only succeeding in crumpling to the ground, and Slag delivered the coup de grace with his [[wikipedia:Bill_(weapon)|pruning hook]]. Jones found within the cradle only an empty bundle, as Millian mused about the halfling litters she had borne. In the master bedroom, Slag found a longsword mounted above a fireplace, and the party helped themselves to an ornate jewelry box filled with baubles. Through a secret door behind a mirror, they climbed to the attic.

===The Attic===

In the attic of the manor, the adventurers found a locked door. Entering with the iron key, they found the withered bodies of two emaciated children - the same they had met in the road. Their [[ghosts]] addressed the party, begging them to slay the monster that they might rest. The house, they said, was hungry, and only by entering the basement through a secret passage they indicated on their dollhouse could the adventurers find the monster and rescue Walter, who the children said was especially beloved to the maid [[Maria]]. Jones asked if the children could accompany the party, whereupon Rosavelda possessed Jones and Thornton possessed Evžen. Finishing their search of the attic, they found a chest into which had been stuffed the knife-rent body of a serving girl. Steeling themselves, they descended the staircase.

Strahd

2025-02-07T18:26:36Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''Strahd''' is a [[Barovian]] given name strongly associated with the line of [[Barov von Zarovich]], the ruling family of [[Barovia]]. Since the establishment of Barovian rule in the valley, all rulers of Barovia have borne this name. Notable rulers include:
* [[Strahd I von Zarovich]], the legendary conqueror of Barovia, son of Barov von Zarovich, founder of the city of [[Vallaki]], and builder of [[Castle Ravenloft]].
* [[Strahd XIII von Zarovich]], the current ruler of Barovia.

Strahd

2025-02-07T18:25:49Z

Dungeonmaster: Created page with "'''Strahd''' is a Barovian given name strongly associated with the line of Barov von Zarovich, the ruling family of Barovia. Since the establishment of Barovian rule in the valley, all rulers of Barovia have borne this name. Notable rulers include: * Strahd I von Zarovich, the legendary conqueror of Barovia, founder of the city of Vallaki, and builder of Castle Ravenloft. * Strahd XIII von Zarovich, the current ruler of Barovia."

'''Strahd''' is a [[Barovian]] given name strongly associated with the line of [[Barov von Zarovich]], the ruling family of [[Barovia]]. Since the establishment of Barovian rule in the valley, all rulers of Barovia have borne this name. Notable rulers include:
* [[Strahd I von Zarovich]], the legendary conqueror of Barovia, founder of the city of [[Vallaki]], and builder of [[Castle Ravenloft]].
* [[Strahd XIII von Zarovich]], the current ruler of Barovia.

Codex Baroviana

2025-02-07T18:20:18Z

Dungeonmaster:

== Introduction ==

===[[Archivist's Note]]===
From the records of Fr. Bonaventure L'Heureaux, Grand Archivist Prelate.
===[[Prologue]]===
A brief accounting of the adventurers' lives before traveling to [[Barovia]].
== The Travelers' Tales ==

===[[Session One]]===
In which our heroes find themselves in a strange land, their fates inextricably linked, and seek shelter in a most uncanny villa.
===[[Session Two]]===
Wherein the adventurers plunge into the crypts beneath this unholy manor, slaying the twisted monster that lurks within its heart.
===[[Session Three]]===
An accounting of the party's entry into the castle-town of Ravenna, the divers personages they found there, and their encounter with a young man bearing a horrible curse.
===[[Session Four]]===
Wherein our heroes participate in a bizarre Barovian religious rite to lay to rest the souls of the burgomaster and the priest's departed son.
===[[Session Five]]===
In which the adventurers, their ranks fortified by new companions, depart from Ravenna to seek the guidance of Madam Eva the fortune-teller and the safety of the fortified city of Vallaki.
===[[Session Six]]===
==Index==
===[[Dramatis Personae]]===
An accounting of the many personages involved in the adventurer's tales.
===[[Gazetteer]]===
The lands and locales through which our intrepid heroes passed on their journey.
===[[Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Barovians.
===[[The Celestial Wheel]]===
The calendar and cosmology of the Vistani.
===[[Cartarokka|The Cartarokka]]===
The Vistani tradition of augury and divination.

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2025-02-07T18:16:26Z

Dungeonmaster:

* navigation
** mainpage|Codex Baroviana
** Barovia|The Land of Barovia
** Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar
** The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel
** Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra|The Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra
** helppage|Help
* SEARCH
* TOOLBOX
* LANGUAGES

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2025-02-07T18:16:10Z

Dungeonmaster:

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2025-02-07T18:15:58Z

Dungeonmaster:

* navigation
** mainpage|Codex Baroviana
** Barovia
** Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar
** The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel
** Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra|The Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra
** helppage|Help
* SEARCH
* TOOLBOX
* LANGUAGES

Barovia

2025-02-07T18:15:07Z

Dungeonmaster: Created page with "'''Barovia''' was the name given to a valley surrounded by a mysterious fog which prevented entry and egress. Named for Barov von Zarovich, an ancestor of the line of Strahd XIII von Zarovich, Barovia was previously inhabited by the forest folk before its conquest and settlement by Strahd I von Zarovich and his army of Barovians c. 350 of the Barovian Calendar. The valley of Barovia is also inhabited by the Vistani, a nomadic people who ar..."

Codex Baroviana

2025-02-07T18:08:15Z

Dungeonmaster:

Codex Baroviana

2025-02-07T18:07:31Z

Dungeonmaster:

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2025-02-07T18:02:29Z

Dungeonmaster:

* navigation
** mainpage|Codex Baroviana
** Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar
** The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel
** Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra|The Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra
** helppage|Help
* SEARCH
* TOOLBOX
* LANGUAGES

The Celestial Wheel

2025-02-07T18:01:32Z

Dungeonmaster:

'''The Celestial Wheel''' is a conceptual, cosmological framework used by the [[Vistani]] and the ancient peoples of [[Barovia]] to plot the changing of the seasons and foretell the future, in which the Arcane and Royal cards of the [[Cartarok]] represent stars, planets, constellations and other elements of the sidereal calendar. Each season was assigned seven cards: one for each of the five seasonal zodiac signs, plus two representing the [[wandering stars]] associated with that season.

<imagemap>
File:celestialwheel.jpg|thumb|center|500px|alt=The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel, represented with cartarok icons. Icons are clickable.

rect 906 22 2000 195 [[The Last Judgment]]
rect 1077 214 1373 388 [[Death]]
rect 1216 394 1515 570 [[Chaos]]
rect 1521 582 1695 880 [[The Stars]]
rect 1710 750 1887 1053 [[The Creatures of the Deep]]
rect 1904 927 2079 1228 [[The Innocent]]
rect 1708 1078 1880 1379 [[The Earth]]
rect 1525 1242 1698 1546 [[The Fool]]
rect 1235 1550 1535 1726 [[The Union]]
rect 1082 1762 1382 1942 [[The Rider]]
rect 919 1970 1217 2145 [[The Sun]]
rect 757 1759 1056 1939 [[Strength]]
rect 628 1564 928 1740 [[The Monk]]
rect 441 1255 613 1558 [[Wisdom]]
rect 246 1101 420 1404 [[Retribution]]
rect 46 924 223 1219 [[The Temptress]]
rect 244 747 420 1048 [[Man and Beast]]
rect 438 585 610 885 [[The Wizard]]
rect 613 400 916 576 [[The Devil]]
rect 751 211 1050 390 [[The Tower]]
rect 1785 324 1954 621 [[The Queen of Coins]]
rect 1809 1488 1984 1792 [[The King of Coins]]
rect 1501 1824 1801 1996 [[The Queen of Chalices]]
rect 369 1833 673 2016 [[The King of Chalices]]
rect 196 1522 361 1821 [[The Queen of Wands]]
rect 198 325 378 625 [[The King of Wands]]
rect 396 130 684 309 [[The Queen of Swords]]
rect 1491 135 1788 315 [[The King of Swords]]
rect 985 724 1164 1026 [[Fortune]]
rect 931 1038 1335 1212 [[The Sky]]
</imagemap>

==The House of Dawn:==
The [[House of Dawn]] roughly corresponds to the [[Spring]] months of the [[Barovian Calendar|Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Svitani]], Prince of the Morning, particularly the constellation of [[The Youth]].

* [[The Stars]] represents the constellation of [[The Lamp]]
* [[The Creatures of the Deep]] represents the constellation of [[The Trout]]
* [[The Innocent]] represents the constellation of [[The Youth]]
* [[The Earth]] represents the constellation of [[The Plow]]
* [[The Fool]] represents the constellation of [[The Fool]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Spring is associated with the suit of [[Chalices]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Invida]], the Dawn Star, represented by the [[Abbess]]; and [[Mandre]], the Bright Star, represented by the [[Hierophant]].

==The House of Day:==
The [[House of Day]] roughly corresponds to the [[Summer]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the old god [[Vara]], The Lord of Sheaves, particularly the constellation of [[The Crown]].

* [[The Union]] represents the constellation of [[The Lovers]]
* [[The Rider]] represents the constellation of [[The Chariot]]
* [[The Sun]] represents the constellation of [[The Crown]]
* [[Strength]] represents the constellation of [[The Throne]]
* [[The Monk]] represents the constellation of [[The Yeoman]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Summer is associated with the suit of [[Coins]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, represented by the [[Sybarite]]; and [[Zravost]], the Golden Star, represented by the [[Miser]].

==The House of Twilight:==
The [[House of Twilight]] roughly corresponds to the [[Autumn]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the old god [[Serka]], The Raven Queen, particularly the constellation of [[The Maiden]].

* [[Wisdom]] represents the constellation of [[The Raven]]
* [[Retribution]] represents the constellation of [[The Scythe]]
* [[The Temptress]] represents the constellation of [[The Maiden]]
* [[Man and Beast]] represents the constellation of [[The Archer]]
* [[The Wizard]] represents the constellation of [[The Sorcerer]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Autumn is associated with the suit of [[Wands]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, represented by the [[Witch]]; and [[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, represented by the [[Illusionist]].

==The House of Night:==
The [[House of Night]] roughly corresponds to the [[Winter]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Iarna]], The Mother of Night, particularly the constellation of [[The Scales]].

* [[The Devil]] represents the constellation of [[The Devil]]
* [[The Tower]] represents the constellation of [[The Prisoner]]
* [[The Last Judgement]] represents the constellation of [[The Scales]]
* [[Death]] represents the constellation of [[The Hanged Man]]
* [[Chaos]] represents the constellation of [[The Midwife]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Winter is associated with the suit of [[Swords]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ura]], the Dark Star, represented by the [[Widow]]; and [[Razoi]], the Blood Star, represented by the [[Voivode]].

====The Axis of the Heavens:====
In addition to the cards of the four seasonal houses, two cards represent the North Star around which the constellations travel and the Vault of the Heavens through which they make their journey.
* [[Fortune]] represents the [[Avera]], the North Star
* [[The Sky]] represents the Vault of the Heavens

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2025-02-07T18:00:31Z

Dungeonmaster:

* navigation
** mainpage|Codex Baroviana
** The Barovian Calendar|The Barovian Calendar
** The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel
** Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra|The Abbey of St. Markovia Symphonic Orchestra
** helppage|Help
* SEARCH
* TOOLBOX
* LANGUAGES

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2025-02-07T17:59:34Z

Dungeonmaster:

The Celestial Wheel

2025-02-07T07:10:46Z

Dungeonmaster:

<imagemap>
File:celestialwheel.jpg|thumb|500px|alt=The Celestial Wheel|The Celestial Wheel, represented with cartarok icons. Icons are clickable.

rect 906 22 2000 195 [[The Last Judgment]]
rect 1077 214 1373 388 [[Death]]
rect 1216 394 1515 570 [[Chaos]]
rect 1521 582 1695 880 [[The Stars]]
rect 1710 750 1887 1053 [[The Creatures of the Deep]]
rect 1904 927 2079 1228 [[The Innocent]]
rect 1708 1078 1880 1379 [[The Earth]]
rect 1525 1242 1698 1546 [[The Fool]]
rect 1235 1550 1535 1726 [[The Union]]
rect 1082 1762 1382 1942 [[The Rider]]
rect 919 1970 1217 2145 [[The Sun]]
rect 757 1759 1056 1939 [[Strength]]
rect 628 1564 928 1740 [[The Monk]]
rect 441 1255 613 1558 [[Wisdom]]
rect 246 1101 420 1404 [[Retribution]]
rect 46 924 223 1219 [[The Temptress]]
rect 244 747 420 1048 [[Man and Beast]]
rect 438 585 610 885 [[The Wizard]]
rect 613 400 916 576 [[The Devil]]
rect 751 211 1050 390 [[The Tower]]
rect 1785 324 1954 621 [[The Queen of Coins]]
rect 1809 1488 1984 1792 [[The King of Coins]]
rect 1501 1824 1801 1996 [[The Queen of Chalices]]
rect 369 1833 673 2016 [[The King of Chalices]]
rect 196 1522 361 1821 [[The Queen of Wands]]
rect 198 325 378 625 [[The King of Wands]]
rect 396 130 684 309 [[The Queen of Swords]]
rect 1491 135 1788 315 [[The King of Swords]]
rect 985 724 1164 1026 [[Fortune]]
rect 931 1038 1335 1212 [[The Sky]]
</imagemap>

'''The Celestial Wheel''' is a conceptual, cosmological framework used by the [[Vistani]] and the ancient peoples of [[Barovia]] to plot the changing of the seasons and foretell the future, in which the Arcane and Royal cards of the [[Cartarok]] represent stars, planets, constellations and other elements of the sidereal calendar. Each season was assigned seven cards: one for each of the five seasonal zodiac signs, plus two representing the [[wandering stars]] associated with that season.

==The House of Dawn:==
The [[House of Dawn]] roughly corresponds to the [[Spring]] months of the [[Barovian Calendar|Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Svitani]], Prince of the Morning, particularly the constellation of [[The Youth]].

* [[The Stars]] represents the constellation of [[The Lamp]]
* [[The Creatures of the Deep]] represents the constellation of [[The Trout]]
* [[The Innocent]] represents the constellation of [[The Youth]]
* [[The Earth]] represents the constellation of [[The Plow]]
* [[The Fool]] represents the constellation of [[The Fool]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Spring is associated with the suit of [[Chalices]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Invida]], the Dawn Star, represented by the [[Abbess]]; and [[Mandre]], the Bright Star, represented by the [[Hierophant]].

==The House of Day:==
The [[House of Day]] roughly corresponds to the [[Summer]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the old god [[Vara]], The Lord of Sheaves, particularly the constellation of [[The Crown]].

* [[The Union]] represents the constellation of [[The Lovers]]
* [[The Rider]] represents the constellation of [[The Chariot]]
* [[The Sun]] represents the constellation of [[The Crown]]
* [[Strength]] represents the constellation of [[The Throne]]
* [[The Monk]] represents the constellation of [[The Yeoman]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Summer is associated with the suit of [[Coins]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, represented by the [[Sybarite]]; and [[Zravost]], the Golden Star, represented by the [[Miser]].

==The House of Twilight:==
The [[House of Twilight]] roughly corresponds to the [[Autumn]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar]] and was associated with the old god [[Serka]], The Raven Queen, particularly the constellation of [[The Maiden]].

* [[Wisdom]] represents the constellation of [[The Raven]]
* [[Retribution]] represents the constellation of [[The Scythe]]
* [[The Temptress]] represents the constellation of [[The Maiden]]
* [[Man and Beast]] represents the constellation of [[The Archer]]
* [[The Wizard]] represents the constellation of [[The Sorcerer]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Autumn is associated with the suit of [[Wands]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, represented by the [[Witch]]; and [[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, represented by the [[Illusionist]].

==The House of Night:==
The [[House of Night]] roughly corresponds to the [[Winter]] months of the Barovian lunisolar calendar and was associated with the [[old god]] [[Iarna]], The Mother of Night, particularly the constellation of [[The Scales]].

* [[The Devil]] represents the constellation of [[The Devil]]
* [[The Tower]] represents the constellation of [[The Prisoner]]
* [[The Last Judgement]] represents the constellation of [[The Scales]]
* [[Death]] represents the constellation of [[The Hanged Man]]
* [[Chaos]] represents the constellation of [[The Midwife]]

====Wandering Stars:====
The Winter is associated with the suit of [[Swords]]. Within its house are two wandering stars - [[Ura]], the Dark Star, represented by the [[Widow]]; and [[Razoi]], the Blood Star, represented by the [[Voivode]].

====The Axis of the Heavens:====
In addition to the cards of the four seasonal houses, two cards represent the North Star around which the constellations travel and the Vault of the Heavens through which they make their journey.
* [[Fortune]] represents the [[Avera]], the North Star
* [[The Sky]] represents the Vault of the Heavens

Prologue

2025-02-07T01:08:19Z

Dungeonmaster:

Wandering stars

2025-02-07T00:40:47Z

Dungeonmaster:

The '''wandering stars''', sometimes called '''planets''', were [[stars]] in the [[Barovian]] sky that did not remain fixed in the [[celestial sphere]] but instead followed their own paths, sometimes moving in a direction retrograde to the progression of the zodiac, or even disappearing from the sky entirely for months or years. Because they resisted the natural order of the [[Celestial Wheel]], they were associated with demons by the ancient people of Barovia, a tradition eventually assimilated into modern Barovian folk religion.

Barovian astrologers recognized eight planets:
*[[Invida]], the Dawn Star, most visible just before sunrise. Invida was the goddess of jealousy and was associated with the spring.
*[[Mandre]], the Bright Star, the brightest object in the Barovian Sky. Mandre was the god of pride and was associated with the spring.
*[[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, the largest object in the Barovian Sky despite its dim light. Ul-Katiba was the goddess of gluttony and was associated with the summer.
*[[Zravost]], the Golden Star, whose yellow gleam connected it to the god of greed, associated with the summer.
*[[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, most visible just after sunset. Inselune was the goddess of despair and sloth and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, whose path was the most erratic of all the celestial objects. Lasitat was the god of deceit and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Ura]], the Dark Star, a barely perceptible planet whose motion was so slow almost to seem fixed. Ura was the goddess of hatred and was associated with the winter.
*[[Razoi]], the Blood Star, whose red color connected it to the god of wrath, associated with winter.

Wandering stars

2025-02-07T00:39:48Z

Dungeonmaster: Created page with "The '''wandering stars''', sometimes called '''planets''', were stars in the Barovian sky that did not remain fixed in the celestial sphere but instead followed their own paths. Because they resisted the natural order of the Celestial Wheel, they were associated with demons by the ancient people of Barovia, a tradition eventually assimilated into modern Barovian folk religion. Barovian astrologers recognized eight planets: *Invida, the Dawn Star, mos..."

The '''wandering stars''', sometimes called '''planets''', were [[stars]] in the [[Barovian]] sky that did not remain fixed in the [[celestial sphere]] but instead followed their own paths. Because they resisted the natural order of the [[Celestial Wheel]], they were associated with demons by the ancient people of Barovia, a tradition eventually assimilated into modern Barovian folk religion.

Barovian astrologers recognized eight planets:
*[[Invida]], the Dawn Star, most visible just before sunrise. Invida was the goddess of jealousy and was associated with the spring.
*[[Mandre]], the Bright Star, the brightest object in the Barovian Sky. Mandre was the god of pride and was associated with the spring.
*[[Ul-Katiba]], the Gargantuan Star, the largest object in the Barovian Sky despite its dim light. Ul-Katiba was the goddess of gluttony and was associated with the summer.
*[[Zravost]], the Golden Star, whose yellow gleam connected it to the god of greed, associated with the summer.
*[[Inselune]], the Twilight Star, most visible just after sunset. Inselune was the goddess of despair and sloth and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Lasitat]], the Wandering Star, whose path was the most erratic of all the celestial objects. Lasitat was the god of deceit and was associated with the autumn.
*[[Ura]], the Dark Star, a barely perceptible planet whose motion was so slow almost to seem fixed. Ura was the goddess of hatred and was associated with the winter.
*[[Razoi]], the Blood Star, whose red color connected it to the god of wrath, associated with winter.

Cartarok

2025-02-07T00:26:26Z

Dungeonmaster: Redirected page to Cartarokka

#REDIRECT [[Cartarokka]]