Barovians speak of Count Strahd von Zarovich in hushed tones, as a brooding and omnipresent figure who has ruled their land for centuries. They share tales of his imposing castle, Ravenloft, looming over the village, casting a perpetual shadow of dread. The villagers describe Strahd as a charismatic, enigmatic lord with a penchant for appearing at dusk, an aura of malevolence clinging to his every move, leaving no doubt that his power and influence over Barovia are absolute.