Ahghairon (pronounced: /ɑːˈgɛərɔːn/ ah-GAIR-awn), born Ahghairon Belnoth Undrur, was a mage from the North and the first Open Lord of Waterdeep. He created the Masked Lords of Waterdeep, the system by which Waterdeep had been ruled ever since, except for a six-year period immediately following his death.
"There shall come a time when our city and its deepwater bay shall grow in fame and fortune across many realms and many worlds. Folk shall know of Waterdeep, our City of Splendors, and sing its praises. I have seen it thus, and I endeavor to make it true.”
— Ahghairon, circa 1032 DR
History
Ahghairon was born on Midsummer's Night, in the Year of Great Riches, 920 DR. He was named after his great-grandfather. Legends say that the symbol of Unknown was glowing in the sky at the time.
The Trollwars
The Second Trollwar broke out in 940 DR, as trolls were pushed down into the area later known as the Trollmoors by orc uprisings further north. After a decade of battles, a young Ahghairon distinguished himself, using his magic to turn the war against the trolls. First, the Waterdhavian defenders drove the trolls back from their walls. The human realms then united under Ahghairon, War Captain Aeroth of Silverymoon, and Samular Caradoon of Tyr, and together they eradicated trolls across the Evermoors, with war finally coming to an end in 952 DR.
A third Trollwar almost took place in 963 DR, when the traitors Aviss and Fellandar led an army of trolls out of the Mere of Dead Men against the city. They knew well the city's defenses, and Castle Waterdeep had only just begun construction. But Ahghairon and a band of wizards hurled Aviss and Fellandar into an extra-dimensional prison, thwarting the attack.
Rise to Power
At this time, Waterdeep was ruled by the Warlord Rhaulor, who wanted to use the city's power and wealth to create an empire spanning northwest Faerûn. Ahghairon strongly disagreed with this, and when he voiced his concerns, Rhaulor attacked him. Ahghairon used his magic to turn Rhaulor's sword into a snake, which bit and poisoned him. Rhaulor died and Ahghairon assumed control of Waterdeep, proclaiming himself the first Open Lord, and establishing a form of government involving Masked Lords, whose identities would remain private.
Rule
In 1007 DR, Ahghairon constructed his wizard tower, but positioned it outside the walls of Waterdeep (which since expanded). At the same time, he imposed magical barriers on Halaster's Hold, which prevented the possibility of any dangers escaping into the city. He created a magical axe named Azuredge in 1026 DR.
Death
Ahghairon used potions of longevity to remain in prime physical form even though he was growing old by human standards. Eventually, his health failed in 1256 DR, and he died and was buried in his tower in Waterdeep. The tower was sealed off and protected by magic, and it was believed that his resting place remained undisturbed ever since.