Lords of Waterdeep

The Lords of Waterdeep are the collective ruling body of the city, composed of the Open Lord, who serves as the public face of governance, and the Masked Lords, a secretive council of anonymous legislators. Together, they are the highest authority in Waterdeep, entrusted with crafting laws, directing policy, and maintaining the balance of power among the city’s many factions.
The structure is designed to safeguard the city against manipulation and corruption. While the Open Lord is known to the public and handles diplomacy and day-to-day oversight, the Masked Lords operate in secrecy, their identities hidden even from each other. This duality ensures both transparency and security in the city’s leadership.

Purpose and Function

The Masked Lords form Waterdeep’s legislative body, empowered to create laws, approve city budgets, and determine appointments to key governmental positions. Their anonymity prevents external influence, protecting them from blackmail, bribery, or undue pressure. Votes are cast in secret sessions, and all decisions require majority approval.
The Open Lord acts as the executive leader and intermediary between the public and the Masked Lords. They preside over council meetings, implement decisions, oversee city factions, and represent Waterdeep in foreign affairs. While powerful, the Open Lord is not above the council and may be overruled or replaced by vote.
Together, the Lords of Waterdeep form a system that prizes both public accountability and hidden integrity, ensuring the city’s governance remains stable, impartial, and responsive in times of crisis.

Structure and Ranks

Open Lord of Waterdeep – The city’s highest public official, appointed by majority vote of the Masked Lords. The Open Lord enforces legislation, manages city affairs, and speaks for Waterdeep in all external matters. They also serve as presiding officer over the council.

Masked Lords of Waterdeep – An anonymous council of lifelong appointees who share equal voting power over legislative and policy decisions. Masked Lords may come from any social class, and their identities are known only to the Open Lord. Their secrecy preserves the council’s impartiality and independence.

Known Members

Laeral Silverhand – Open Lord of Waterdeep