High Magician Vangerdahst Aeiulvana
Role: Royal Magician of Cormyr, Master of the Council of Mages, and leader of the War Wizards.
Description: Vangerdahast was Azoun IV’s closest advisor, having served as his tutor in ethics during his youth. A powerful wizard, he was known for his stern demeanor and unyielding loyalty to the crown, often taking a pragmatic, sometimes ruthless approach to governance. After Azoun IV’s death, he stepped back from public life, appointing Caladnei as his successor, though rumors suggest he preserved blood samples of the royal family for magical purposes, possibly cloning.
Influence: Vangerdahast was the backbone of Cormyr’s arcane defenses, commanding the War Wizards and shaping much of the kingdom’s policy. His influence often overshadowed even Azoun IV’s, as he handled day-to-day governance, especially during crises. However, his secretive actions—like the rumored cloning—raise questions about his true motives. The narrative often paints him as a loyal servant, but this might downplay potential power struggles with nobles or even the royal family, especially given his authoritarian control over the War Wizards.
