First meeting with Strahd
Hello! This is not only my first post on this sub but on Reddit as a whole, wohooo!
I am a DM running CoS for the first time for a group of new players (I know, big task but so far I'm doing decently well I think) and I'm about to introduce Strahd for the first time. I'm running mostly RAW with some minor homebrewing to incorporate some elements of my player's backstory and some wider plot hooks for a possible campaign after CoS (assuming they survive...)
My players recently met Madam Eva and had their Tarokka reading (rigged, I'm afraid :P) and are escorting Ireena to Vallaki, along with Ismark who joined them to make sure she gets there safe.
Now on their way to Vallaki I want them to run into Strahd, either past the bridge of the Ivlis river or at the crossroads that split the path towards Vallaki or towards Ravenloft.
I want Strahd to initially seem almost nice, in an eerie way. He's simply on his way to the Town of Barovia to pay his respects to the deceased burgomaster of Barovia. I'm having my Strahd respect those who are competent, respectful and able leaders (which I've made Kolyan to be) even if he still thinks of them as beneath him. He is an honorable man vampire, although twisted, so his intentions are genuine.
Lastly, I was thinking that Strahd's obsession with Tatyana would maybe lead him to disregard or ignore the person her reincarnations become, because he is only interested in Tatyana's soul within them. As such, perhaps Strahd would refuse to call Ireena anything other than "Tatyana", which could create an interesting moment where the party thinks "what the hell is he talking about?" and potentially make the reveal later more impactful.
My question is, is this a good interpretation of Strahd? What do you think about these ideas? I'll be happy to hear any feedback! And if I enjoy the experience and receive helpful tips I might post more in the future as my story progresses!
Thank you!! <3