Gorion
Gorion was a legendary hero of the Sword Coast, best known for his pivotal role in defeating the Chromatic Dragon coalition three centuries ago. While highly regarded for his historic heroism, his legacy is complex, marked by his affiliation with the shadowy network of the Zhentarim and his ultimate demise at the hands of Sarevok.
Appearance and Depiction
Historically, Gorion was described as a rotund man. In the ancient carvings found within the central chamber of the Dragon Barrow, he is memorialized alongside his fellow dragonslayers. In these relief depictions, Gorion is shown with a lute on his back while holding a scroll, standing in a half-circle with his legendary allies as they look over their battle plans.
The Dragon Campaign of the North
Three hundred years ago, a devastating alliance of Chromatic Dragons launched a massive assault on the emerging cities of the Sword Coast, including Luskan, Neverwinter, Waterdeep, and Baldur’s Gate. In response, the newly formed Lord’s Alliance rallied to defend the North.
Gorion fought alongside a legendary band of heroes who succeeded in pushing back the draconic threat. This illustrious group included:
- Elminster Aumar, the Sage of Shadowdale
- Lady Tanager Alagondar of Neverwinter
- Hrothgar Hillsfar of Kuldahar (actually the polymorphed Firbolg Farwald)
- Esfaloth Nightbreeze, the Fey Touched
- Kiara Shadowbreaker, Mistress of the Hunt
- Uther Vendrock, the Silvered Star
Together, these heroes defeated the Green Dragon Virethas, the Jade Queen, outside Neverwinter, and drove the remaining chromatic lords—Cryovain, Skaldreth, Barakis, and Nocturne—to the far corners of the world.
Following their historic victory, the band of heroes scattered to their respective fates. In the aftermath depicted on the Dragon Barrow murals, Gorion and Kiara Shadowbreaker are shown boarding a ship together as they departed the battle-torn lands.
Legacy and Demise
Though celebrated for saving the North, Gorion was associated with the Zhentarim, a powerful and ancient guild of spies, thieves, and smugglers. He eventually established himself at the scholarly keep of Candlekeep. In the years following the historic campaign against the dragons, Gorion was slain by the villain Sarevok, ending the chapter of one of the Sword Coast’s most enigmatic saviors.