Ensmore
The city of Ensmore is situated on the northern coast of Requiem and overlooks glittering white-sand beaches from the raised sandstone cliffs. Numerous settlements have existed where Ensmore stands today, though there is evidence that the shoreline used to be nearly a mile inland, specifically a set of ancient sandstone towers that likely once served as lighthouses.
Modern Ensmore was founded in 681 EP by disenfranchised citizens of the Haedian empire who were tired of the constant conflict and the currently raging 50 Year Siege, though a smaller settlement had been established here for some time. The main draw of the land was the rough but still farmable hills beyond the beaches, easy access to building materials, and the strange magical phenomenon of a Foci imbued within an inland pool of sea water.
The city soon became a hub for those looking for a life free of the often times strict doctrine of the Haedian Empire, which culminated with the teachings of the Philosopher Lethandre, who taught that the pursuit of happiness and love for all people was paramount. This is reflected in the culture of the city to this day, where it is regarded as a bastion of fine arts, music, and philosophy.
Regrettably, much of the city was damaged or destroyed during the Reckoning's invasion during The Long Shadow Conflicts, including the Fountain of the Scholar. Fortunately, the academics and scholars of the city were able to evacuate a good deal of historical artifacts before the giants could smash them to little pieces.
Once the Reckoning was dealt with, Sigil poured a great deal of coin into the rebuilding of Ensmore, believing that the restoration of its cultural influence was of the utmost importance for the burgeoning Haedian Empire.
The Fountain of the Scholar
The Foci of Ensmore, it features the looming figure of Lathendre himself playing a lute with streaming water coursing around him like ribbons. The fountain draws from a wellspring deep beneath the surface. The statue has not always been here, but the spring and its magical properties have. Local lore suggests that the pilgrims who came here "purchased" the land from a druid circle that resided here, but many have their doubts that the exchange was peaceful. The fountain is also the source of the Twilight Auroras, streams of magical light that illuminate the city streets at dawn and dusk. These are tendrils of potent magic that many bards and other magic users throughout the city utilize in their trade.
Founding Date
681 EP
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