Author: Adelyn Belle'rose
Rozen Chalice Publishing, a division of East Arelith Trading
Original Publication: 177 AR
"The Arelith Antiquarian Society is instituted to examine, preserve, and publish all antiquities as connected with the art, language, literature, and history of the Arelith Archipelago. Articles bearing this notation have been selected for conservation regardless of race, faith, alignment, or affiliation. While all efforts have been made to ensure the information within is accurate regarding the subject matter covered, we assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any other inconsistencies herein, whether such errors or omissions are the result of negligence, accident, or any other cause. If any such errors, inaccuracies, or omissions are discovered please contact the author who will address the issue."
Contents
FOREWORD
While I generally avoid writing on accounts in which I was directly involved, the events surrounding Lord Embers ultimate betrayal at the hands of Andunor's native population proved too significant an experience not to. While such treachery is not unique to the denizens of Andunor, the callus self-destruction caused by their actions toward the betterment of the city illustrates the counterproductive nature of settlement when compared to more Lawful domains. Much like how historians point to the anecdote of Wharftown to remind us of the folly of Pride, so too can the tale of Greyport remind us of the folly of unrestrained personal Ambition.
I. ARRIVAL
On the 24 Day of the 5th Month in the year 176 AR, a massive, gilded warship belonging to the Dragon Lord Aldahoon Embers dropped anchor in the West Wheel of Andunor. Upon docking, a drow-blooded dragonkin named Elin'teerm disembarked to declare himself Emissary of the Dragon Lord to a local merchant, who had paused to watch the ship's arrival. When pressed for his master's purpose in Andunor, the Emissary declared that his Lord of great wealth had left his floating island fortress to travel the seas and alleviate the tedium of a long life. As such, they had docked in the Underdark city of Andunor to see if the settlement was worthy of the Dragon Lord's attention.
The merchant guided Elin'teerm to the central trade Hub to display the city's worth, where his presence was announced via the ringing of the settlement's bells. Upon request, a list of Greyport's leadership was provided to the Emissary. For the Dragon Lord had seen the majesty of the Red Tower and commanded a Grand Ball would be held within its halls to the benefit of all should the city be found credible. Upon conclusion of this first introduction, Elin'teerm thanked all present and retired to the warship. Shortly after the following notice was publicly posted.
"The Bells have Tolled!"
"Let it be known last Tenday the mighty LORD ALDAHOON EMBERS did sail his ship of wealth and Splendor to dock upon Andunor's West Wheel."
"To mark this event, the Bells of Andunor sounded, not in alarm, but in Celebration!"
"Citizens did gather within the Hub to greet Emissary Elin'teerm of House Embers, whom announced his Lord's desire to Host a GRAND BALL in the District of GREYPORT within the near future."
"The city of Andunor, and myself, look forward to the future Wealth and Decadence Lord Aldahoon might bring to our People's pockets."
Day 24, Month 5 (Mirtul), 176 AR Adelyn Belle'rose
Over the next three months Emissary Elin'teerm would meet with the various influential factions and districts around Andunor to facilitate the upcoming gala. Contracting the East Arelith Trading Company under Adelyn Belle'rose to organize the event, the Emissary would also employ the Shadowclaw kobold clan to collect rare surface 'ingredients' for the Grand Ball's feast. It should be noted that the dragon blood was very fond of any recipe making heavy use of either elf or hin flesh. A culinary weakness Emissary Elin'teerm was always eager to explain in detail should the opportunity present itself in polite conversation.
During this period, two events of consequence took place concerning the event's organization. One was an altercation between a member of the Syndicate's abyssal cult Laerca Avyn and Emissary Elin'teerm during a street fight event held in Greyport. Laerca's public attempt to assert her social dominance over the dragon blooded Elin'teerm would ultimately fail, resulting in a public display of embarrassment for the female. After which, the cultist would destroy the public sign-up board for the Grand Ball in Andunor's Hub after posting the following declaration.
"SYCOPHANTS"
"Who cares about this GRAND BALL. These ABOMINATIONS will give you NOTHING. One of them ASSAULTED ME just for obstructing their view. I destroyed that board, and I was doing you a FAVOR. If you want coin, do something useful with your time. Entertaining a HOUSE OF DEGENERATES will only get you CHAINS. Enjoy being a SLAVE. You will host their GRAND BALLS for ETERNITY."
Day 2, Month 6 (Kythorn), 176 AR Laerca Avyn
Secondly, agents of the East Arelith Company reported rumors of strife within the Shadowclaw kobold clan's ranks over Lord Embers' servant Emissary Elin'teerm claims to be of the dragon's bloodline. It should be noted that the Emissary displayed many physical dragon-like features, including a set of wings.
INTEL: Shadowclaw Clan, Internal Strife
"Report of a sub-faction within the kobold Shadowclaw sect that is upset with Lord Aldahoon (and his servant) for claiming to be a Dragon. In their belief no one can claim to be a Dragon if the body shares' warm blood'."
"Report of over hearing this complaint followed by 'It will be taken care of' leads one to theorize efforts might be made against the visiting Lord."
END OF REPORT
Day 15, Month 6 (Kythorn), 176 AR Adelyn Belle'rose
After much preparation, delay, and setback, city leaders agreed upon the time of the Grand Ball, and a public declaration was made to the people of Andunor.
"The GRAND BALL has Arrived!!!"
"People of Andunor!"
"A date for the GRAND BALL has been set! On [Redacted] the doors to the Red Tower will open to admit guests to Lord Aldahoon's great gala."
"The Theme for the Night is: 'Games of Life and Death'"
"Guests, artists, and performers are encouraged to express their creativity with this in mind."
"Those attending shall enjoy the various culinary arts of the city's master craftsman with guests being encouraged to vote for the brewer or chef they feel most talented. The winning caterer shall receive a boon from Lord Aldahoon upon the celebration's end."
"This shall be followed by judging of individually submitted artwork by a panel of three, with the piece selected being added to Lord Aldahoon's personal collection. The winning artist, of course, shall receive proper compensation."
"The Night will be concluded with Lord Aldahoon selecting a relic most worthy from those submitted by each District (to include the Arcanium)."
SECURITY:
"While all citizens of Andunor are invited to attend, identities will be inspected upon arrival. No guest is allowed to have visible wards during their stay. Those with such protections shall be refused entry, or if they are applied after entry shall be escorted from the event. Security for the gathering is already arranged and guests should feel comfortable in their safety."
PARTICIPANTS:
"To the craftsmen, brewers, artists, chefs, and poets . . . we encourage you to create and strive for the honors that will surely be rewarded at the gala. Any may submit their work upon arrival at the GRAND BALL. However those, such as Bards and Carters, who will require a station to work from during the event are asked to pre-register with me so space can be reserved. Simply contact Coin Mistress Kasima Shadowclaw who resides in the INNER HUB or myself whose lair is located in the EAST WHEEL."
"Due note NO works or crafts of an excessively graphic nature shall be accepted. One should strive to please the subtle tastes of the Dragon Lord Aldahoon's possible fancies rather than rely on the "shock and awe" such works focus upon."
DISTRICT LEADERS
"To the Districts of Andunor, including the Arcanium, Lord Aldahoon requests one Relic be provided from each community to be judged by myself at the gala's end."
"If there are further questions please feel free to contact Master Stink of the Red Tower, Coin Mistress Kasima of Greyport Authority, or Myself."
Sincerely, Day 22, Month 6 (Kythorn), 176 AR Adelyn Belle'rose
II. THE GRAND BALL
The doors to the Red Tower opened to admit guests, security being provided by The Awful Brothers Mercenary Company, with each visitor being announced by name and title. What followed was a regal gathering of nearly all Andunor, with most turning out to see the famed Lord Aldahoon Embers for themselves in person. Rare flesh dishes, exotic art displays, and bardic performances filled the main floor of the Red Tower, allowing guests to partake in cultured indulgence within relative safety.
Upon the festivity's end, the winners of the gala's many contests were named, with Boneborn's 'Deep Fried Rothe Fingers' taking the prize for best food as judged by the owner of the tower Stink Spellworped. Of the art submissions judged by Elerra Hyluan, Ulvorne, and Adelyn Belle'rose the winner was deemed 'The Sacrifices Made'. Of the district artifacts, 'The Trail of Being' was judged by Lord Aldahoon to be most worthy of prize, though perhaps this was due to the device's removal of a kobolds arm upon its operation which he found most amusing. With the conclusion of the naming, the goblin chief Stink Spellworped made the following degree and thus officially ended the event.
"It some time now since Lilith Vensurai and all she sorts leave Red Tower, and Stink move in. Move in for all gobs of city, and Worped Ones clan! So know you this, to make all clear and for you words and whispers to spread. WE is here now. Worped Ones is here. There new gob spirit in city! And we got riches and a mighty fortress too! So relax youselves good, stay as long as you wanting, drink youself silly. Know you the riches of the Worped Ones!"
III. BETRAYAL
As guests departed the Red Tower the drow Ulvorne, district leader of Greyport, approached the Dragon Lord's entourage and whispered, 'If you are ready, I can see you both taken to where I have them stored. It shouldn't take long.' To which Elin'teerm replied, 'I suspect Lord Aldahoon is unlikely to attend. Though, I'll happily do so.'
Before this moment, the drow had offered to show Lord Embers his horde of precious trinkets while presenting the visiting dragon with a gift. Intrigued by such, the two departed for the nearby mines while the event's organizers remained to see the last of the guests away and keep Lord Embers entertained. However, not long after Emissary Elin'teerm returned armed and alone, demanding Lord Aldahoon follow him to safety. When asked what transpired, the Emissary declared he had been betrayed by Ulvorne when, with an archer in hiding, he attempted to claim his life through ambush and explosion.
Aghast at the turn of events, Lord Embers departed back to his ship under escort from the East Arelith Trading Company. Upon arrival at the West Wheel berth, words of regret were offered to the departing Lord Aldahoon over the city's betrayal and loss of what might have been. Presented with a relic from the dragon's horde as payment for her service, Elin'teerm released the East Arelith Company from their contract before boarding the large warship and weighing anchor.
"The Gilded Flagship of Lord Aldahoon, having spent so long docked in the West Wheel, finally raised its anchor and lowered its sails. Slowly, it moved across the canal to turn broadside with the District of Greyport. With the sound of Clunk, Clunk, Clunk, the artillery positioned within the many ports along this almighty flagship spoke. What followed next lit up the great cavern with the flash of cannonade and sounds of heavy impacts that caused the entire city of Anundor to shake! To the peeling thunder of a hundred blasts, Hell was rained upon The District of Greyport. After what seemed like an eternity, the rain of iron ceased its fall, recompense for the District's betrayal given. With a ponderous turn, the warship of Lord Aldahoon Embers departed the waters of Andunor, its fury spent."
Firsthand Witness account of the Bombardment of Greyport
What remained of Greyport after the departure of Lord Embers' warship was swaddled within fiery flames and charred corpses. The efforts of various citizens lured to the scene by the display succeeded in bringing the worst of the inferno under control. Before the heat haze had dissipated from the district's smoldering ruins, true to Andunorian custom, blame for what occurred would be leveled freely in the attack's aftermath. From Lairilwa's statement, "All... On fire. The whole district--Everybody's dead. Ulvorne's dying in the caves. What the dragon said was false--An elf from Myon shot explosives and about blew them both up." To the ghostly balls of light appearing before travelers and declaring. "Ulvorne was responsible for the attempt on the Lord of Ember's life. He worked with a moon elf tiefling this resulted in the shelling of Greyport." To address the concern of what transpired, a small group led by Goblin Chef Stink traversed the Red Tower mines to investigate the ambush scene.
The group would locate debris from various explosive devices in a strategically located bend of the mine's lower tunnels. With a squint and stick tap, Stink declared, "Ulvorne got access to tower, which mean he got access to mine. No gobs tell Stink Ulvorne setting up hoard in there though. If Ulvorne 'was' looking to kill dragonlord, mine good spot. If there 'was' going to be hoard - OR ambush - it be here."
With the bloodshed so recent, few desired motives or reasons for the attack and instead placed blame on the Dragon Lord himself or, as is Underdark tradition, upon Myon.
AFTERWARD
Shortly after Greyport's burning, the districts of Andunor agreed to hire the Gnoll bard Darruz Scumhand as an unaffiliated third-party investigator to examine the affair. Though the Shadowclaw kobold clan still publicly demanded revenge against the departed Dragon Lord, the gnoll continued to maintain his neutrality and conducted an in-depth investigation.
"A Tragedy Overlooked"
"It amuses me to no end that even now, with the passing of time, many in the city still see Lord Ember's attack on Greyport as a form of betrayal. Seeking the Dragon Lords head 'On a Pike' as it were."
"Yet how many understand the great bombardment of Greyport was not the Dragon Lord's desire, but the result of another's foolish action? The city might have forgotten Lord Ember's desire to open trade between his floating island and Greyport with the intention to turn Andunor's 'cast off District' into a capital of wealth and power within the dark, but I have not."
"That was of course the plan only until a trap set for him was sprung upon his servant. A trap that failed mind you, yet managed to show Lord Ember's the true nature of our grand city of trade."
"Is it any wonder he weighed anchor and left, never to return, after a parting gift of cannon fire."
"Perhaps instead of seeking to hunt the victim of betrayal, those of the city might hunt those responsible for it hm?"
"Just a thought."
Day 21, Month 9 (Eleint), 176 AR Adelyn Belle'rose
Eventually, after much effort, the gnoll completed the comprehensive inquiry and published his findings which can be summarized in the entry below.
"The Investigation of Greyport's Burning - Conclusions"
"The recommended sequence of events leading up to the Burning of Greyport, based on the motives, testimonies, and likelihood is this: Ulvorne gathered the explosives within the Copper Mine, which were provided by the Erudite Arcanum, for some sort of plot against Aldhoon, however it was Elin'teerm that accompanied him. Whatever this plot was, it was not fulfilled as instead the archer, agent of some other force, found out about the explosives and waited for the other two to arrive. The explosion was then set off by this archer, based on testimony provided by Elin'teerm and the latest testimony by Ulvorne the archer was horned, it could also be possible that they were eleven and feminine. Due to the lack of horned beings within Andunor, it is very likely that the archer was an agent of a Surface or Interplanar organization. In these events, Greyport became a victim of the archer's patrons taking advantage of Ulvorne's scheming, through which Aldhoon and his associates were used as tools to wreck damage upon the district."
Day 22, Month 9 (Eleint), 176 AR Darruz Scumhand
When presented to the city's leaders, many directly involved with the event had by now departed the archipelago. Lord Ulvorne relinquished his mantle as leader of Greyport to flee the city around the same time the goblin Stink Spellworped, leaseholder of the Red Tower, quit the Underdark with pockets ladened with gold. As with most things related to Andunor, retribution was never found, and over time recollections of that bombardment faded until the event had been largely disregarded. Only the sense of what might have been lingered with those who had taken part in the affair. Yet another opportunity squandered for an individual's gain that, despite their efforts, resulted in nothing of value being genuinely wrought.
As for myself, I at least enjoyed meeting Lord Embers and learning about his floating island of wealth. Perhaps one day I shall make use of the relic left to me as payment, though in honesty, I am not entirely sure. With only a single activation, such an artifact would prove an impractical, abet powerful protagonist. Time will tell, as it does with all things.
FIN
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
- Written Record(s):
[1] Darruz Scumhand, "The Investigation of Greyport's Burning"
[2] Laerca Avyn, "SYCOPHANTS"
[3] Adelyn Belle'rose, "The Bells have Tolled!"
[4] Adelyn Belle'rose, "INTEL: Shadowclaw Clan, Internal Strife"
[5] Adelyn Belle'rose, "The GRAND BALL has Arrived!!!"
[6] Adelyn Belle'rose, "A Tragedy Overlooked
- Interview(s):
[1] Darruz Scumhand
[2] Elin'teerm of House Embers
[3] Lord Aldahoon Embers
[4] Stink Spellworped
[5] Ulvorne
[6] Kasima Shadowclaw
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
[The modest portrait of a young vermilion-haired lady with pallid flesh is positioned next to the paragraph below. Her crimson gaze looks intently at the reader, betraying the aspect's alluring facade with callous indifference. The suggestion of a predatory smile appears hidden within the corners of full upturned lips.]
"The Vampire Adelyn Belle'rose has been charming readers with her historical works upon the island of Arelith for years. As the former curator of the Cordor's Museum, she helped bring the past to life through exhibits and displays. Later, as a member of Andunor's Erudite Arcanum, she would lead the research team to investigate Shadow Wharftown's Third Iteration. Through the founding of the Arelith Antiquarian Society and the East Arelith Trading Company, she continues to advocate for the preservation of knowledge across the archipelago."