The Silverwell of Arcadia

Hidden at the heart of Arcadia lies the Silverwell, a deep, moonlit spring regarded as both the spiritual and magical core of the enclave. The well has been born when the exiled elves first wove Arcadia into being. Elders recount that their ancestors gathered the fragments of fae power left scattered in Bridgeport - echoes of long-faded gateways, whispers of dryads who refused to depart, and remnants of leyline currents frayed by the Boresian Wars. These were bound together into a single locus beneath an ancient oak, which split and hollowed to make space for the glowing waters.  

Appearance and Atmosphere

The Silverwell is a natural pool no wider than twenty paces across, but its waters shine with a pale radiance, silver by night and opalescent by day. Mist perpetually curls above its surface, drifting into the boughs overhead. Anyone who approaches feels an almost reverent hush descend - the sound of birdsong softens, the air cools, and the usual bustle of Arcadia falls silent.   The water itself is unnaturally still. When disturbed, ripples shimmer with colours not seen elsewhere in the world, glimmering faintly with echoes of Mag Mell’s eternal twilight. At times, small fae creatures such as will-o’-wisps, pixies, or dream-moths emerge from the vapour above the surface, only to dissolve like dew moments later.  

Function and Significance

The Silverwell serves multiple purposes:   Magical Reservoir: It is the anchor of Arcadia’s expanding fae domain. Without it, the transformation of cobbled streets into woodland paths and the growth of inner groves would collapse, the encircling walls of living greenery would crumble away.   Council Chamber: The Arcadian Council gathers on its mossy shores to deliberate weighty matters, believing the Silverwell amplifies truth and dispels lies. Oaths spoken beside it are considered binding, and perjury here is said to bring misfortune.    

Customs and Taboos

It is forbidden to drink directly from the Silverwell. Water must be drawn by ritual chalice and consumed only during sanctioned ceremonies. Throwing foreign objects into the pool is sacrilege, believed to taint Arcadia’s bond with the fae. The most serious taboo is attempting to claim the waters for personal power - an act viewed as a crime against the enclave itself.  

Associated Figures

Tharan Durel, the gardener-priest, tends the well’s surroundings, pruning vines and guiding visitors through rites of respect. Elder Mariel Lathwyn frequently holds council here, stating that "the Silverwell hears not our words, but the intent beneath them".  

Magical Qualities and Risks

The Silverwell is not a passive font. Its waters can heal or harm depending on the purity of intent:   Healing Draught: When ritually sanctified, a single cup grants relief from fatigue, cures minor ailments, and restores clarity of mind.   Prophetic Reflection: Those gazing into the waters may glimpse visions of possible futures, though distorted by symbolism.   Backlash: Those attempting to draw uncontrolled power from the well may suffer fae retribution, manifesting as confusion, sudden ageing, or entrapment in dreamlike states.  

Game Mechanics