The Wishing Well

The Wishing Well is a natural formation on the island of Steirvem with religious and historical significance to the Snow Rocks. The sinkhole formed during an earthquake in the wake of Warren III's rule as he battled Abbot I. Following its formation, the Steward's Longhouse was built along its ridge.

Cultural Impact

The Wishing Well serves as both a site of ritual sacrifice and capital punishment due to the paramount importance of Bailum in the Snow Rock pantheon. In the eyes of both the Islands Five and the Bowhead Haseti, a death through true justice is also considered a sacrifice to the god of justice, and as such it will bring good omens upon the Snow Rock Isles. Given that the Well formed during the great battle of the Isles that also solidified Warren III and his blood as mythological figures amongst humanity, it's the perfect site to bind both historical and religious aspects of the local culture.
Until the collapse of the Islands Five, it was common practice for humans to make homage to the Wishing Well, especially those who lived in Shellbay. When the Bowhead Haseti assumed authority over the Isles, such homages have become more difficult, as crossing the border has grown perilous in the wake of the militant takeover. In countries abroad, those damned to die would occasionally request to be executed above the Well (a request which was often appealed) so that their souls could be cleansed and forgiven of wrongdoing. 

Geography

The Wishing Well is a sinkhole with steep edges, incapable of being scaled by most humans. While erosion was once a concern, millennia of weathering have unveiled a limestone matrix that scaled from the top to the bottom of the well, maintaining its rigid structure. Another source of stability comes from the roots of climbing vines that have locked sand and soil in place along the inner edges. The Well is approximately 1700 feet from end to end, making it the largest sinkhole in Laminarum, though it has given rise to a host of unique species for those who have dared to explore the bottom.

Type

Sinkhole

Location under

Steirvem

Ruling/Owning Rank

Baron

Owning Organization

Bowhead Haseti

Related Traditions

• Homage to the Wishing Well