Strahd is the vampire lord residing in Castle Ravenloft. No one is welcome at his castle without invitation—Intruders are never seen again, or return as one of Strahd’s vampire spawn.

Barovians believe him to a blight on the land and live under constant fear of his next attack. Many try to avoid his attention and would rather not speak of him at all.

The Vistani, by contrast, appear to be more comfortable with his presence, having some type of unwritten but honored agreement with Strahd.