Note that this search only checks the encounter deck, not the discard pile (and victory display). For that reason, it's a good idea to advance "Harlan's Curse" when all 3 Acolytes are in the discard/play (or even just 2 Acolytes in the discard/play when 3/4 player) - this prevents the spawn.

Of course you might be dealing with the other version of this act, so this gambit might have no effect. But if it works well, it can be nice.