Rudolf Van Richten is one of the most accomplished and legendary monster hunters in the Domains of Dread. He has trained several apprentices, including the particularly capable Ezmerelda D'avenir. After Cherish wished for Strahd and his consorts to be good, the evil half of Strahd impersonated Rudolf for an uncertain length of time. This version of Strahd rode the Snail Way into Mordentshire, along with Rudolf's apprentices, Arthur Sedgwick and Alanik Ray. It is uncertain where the real Rudolf has been since this deception, though some people, such as Dr. St. Jermain, believe he is still alive.