Reign of Enlightenment

Cultural event

From 818 onwards, under the visionary rule of King Ilion II of House Starlance, Riverhold was ushered into an era of unparalleled intellectual and artistic prosperity. An advocate for knowledge and culture, Ilion's reign saw the foundation of grand libraries and academies, marking an epoch where scholars and artists shaped the kingdom's soul.

Following the military triumphs that had catapulted House Starlance into power, there were whispers of a potentially tyrannical rule. However, under the wise governance of King Ilion II, these apprehensions were soon laid to rest. Instead of solely emphasizing military might, Ilion took a divergent path, one that cherished the realm's intellectual and cultural assets.   King Ilion II, often called "Ilion the Enlightened", was a man of vast curiosity. As a prince, he had traveled extensively across distant realms, bringing back with him tales of foreign cultures, manuscripts, and an enduring passion for learning. When he ascended to the throne, he intended to make Riverhold a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment.   He initiated several landmark projects. The first of these was the Grand Library of Marblehall. Envisioned as a repository of the world's knowledge, it attracted scholars, sages, and thinkers from all corners of the realm and beyond. Architecturally magnificent, with vast domes and soaring spires, its halls echoed with discourse and debate, its shelves brimming with scrolls and books of every conceivable subject.   Parallelly, he founded the Starlance Academy in Kingsmere. This institution aimed to nurture talent, irrespective of one's birth or station. It taught various disciplines, from the sciences to the arts. Soon, Kingsmere produced renowned painters, musicians, and philosophers whose fame crossed beyond its borders.   The impact of this enlightenment extended to the kingdom's daily life. Public lectures, musical performances, and art exhibitions became regular events. Streets that were once only bustling with trade began to see poetry recitals and philosophical debates. Artisans and craftsmen, inspired by the royal patronage, began creating masterpieces, enhancing Riverhold's reputation in luxury goods.   Yet, Ilion II's reign wasn't without its critics. Some traditionalists believed the kingdom was deviating from its roots, becoming too 'soft' in its pursuits. They argued that a kingdom's strength lay in its military and economic prowess, not in its art galleries or libraries. But for the majority, Ilion's era represented a golden age – one where the mind and spirit of Riverhold soared to new heights.   As years turned to decades, the Reign of Enlightenment left an indelible mark on the annals of Riverhold's history. Even subsequent rulers, irrespective of their personal leanings, could not ignore the foundation laid by Ilion II, ensuring that The Kingdom of Riverhold remained a bastion of culture and learning for generations to come.   Previous event