Lessons from Aglarond, by Sera of Corellon

[ScottyB]

In the lands many of you consider to be the unapproachable east, on the sea you may know as the Sea of Fallen Stars, is a relatively young nation called Aglarond.

It is the place of my birth, and one I am proud to name as my homeland. It is a place of diversity and tolerance, achieved by a people that overcame the greedy and the hateful. And if nothing else piques your interest about it, it is a place where half-elven are nothing to turn your head about.

Today, it is a well-governed, well-enforced land that remains vigilant against Thay and generously deters piracy for its kinder neighbors. While an elven presence has existed in Aglarond for over half a millenia, halflings have discovered suitable farmland in previously unsettled regions; their enthusiasm and skill is well-received by all Aglarond's people. Like our own colonial government the monarchy of Aglarond is advised by a council whose members are chosen from among their own communities, similar to the Stygian and former First Bolt dignitaries. Those towns who refuse to send councilors to the capital of Velprintalar are allowed a degree of autonomy, so long as they do not endanger Aglarond or offend its principles.

Aglarond's past, its formal founding under King Brindor over 300 years ago, emerged from turmoil and the stubborness of some human settlements. Since its colonization by humans, the axe had been taken against the trees of the Yuriwood to build homes, repair ships, and make tools, all necessary for human inhabitation. As human expansion grew, the elves retreated into the Yuriwood to protect the heart of the forest. They had no desire to battle against the humans, with whom many now shared some family relation, but expansion continued. Their relation became strained to the point of breaking, and men were made to fear felling trees of importance in the deep of the woods; but men live short lives, and their lust for progress soon brought them back into the Yuriwood. It was then that the half-elves sought to broker peace between the races of their parentage, but their pleas fell upon deaf ears among the human leaders. The forest once more in danger, the half-elves rallied to their kinsman Brindor's banner and attacked the most prominent logging settlements. Indrila, Queen of the city of Velprin and one responsible for much of the dismissal of elven bargaining, raised her own army in retaliation. Her forces were utterly crushed and she herself was captured by Brindor; negotiations for the future of all Aglarond would now take place.

Humans who did not accept the rule of King Brindor migrated to those coastal towns capable of functioning independently. They are allowed their peace so long as they do not threaten Aglarond, and are invited to take part in matters of state. Elves continue to live in the Yuriwood, though they are reclusive, even among communities of their half-kindred. Many other races enjoy a freedom of being able to choose worlds and finding support from each.

From the history of Aglarond we see that a good cause reaches out, that a good cause operates with respect up to its breaking point, and that a good cause never truly abandons courtesy. There is no good cause that will not open communication.

Recorded for the people of the ziggurat colony by Sera,
Half-elven of Aglarond, and Paladin of Corellon Larethian
1375 DR