For multiclassed classes, you get to choose either stronghold. For multiclassed Fighter/Something however, there is a bug in the game that allows you to get both strongholds.
There is no right way to play BG2, but the game developers did put the NPCs in there for a reason.
They may not be as powerful as characters created by you, but they are not weak either and the interactions can be rewarding if this is your first time playing BG2.
Just my $0.02 worth. [img]smile.gif[/img]