[A Parchment to Exchequer Sol Auk Sol Auk]

[granny]

Esteemed Exchequer Sol Auk Sol Auk,

I hope this letter finds you well and your pockets even fuller, for I've heard many a whispered tale of your proficiency in coin matters. I must admit my ignorance, for I'm not quite certain what an Exchequer does, but it sounds quite important! If you ever find yourself in my company, I would be most grateful if you could spare a moment to enlighten me on this fine title.

Now, my purpose in writing to you today is twofold. First, the Feast of B'aara approaches, a time when we, the faithful children of the Mother, come together to celebrate her grace. It is also an opportunity to aid those less fortunate. You, being of the Gold League, are often painted as one who cares not for the destitute, but I believe this is a chance to prove such badmouthing wrong. We aim to purchase much-needed beds for the refugees seeking solace and healing at the B'aarat Almshouse in the Tablet. I'm confident that Baetu the Blind, the dedicated priest overseeing the Almshouse, will rejoice at your generosity.

Secondly, I kindly request the Consortium's sponsorship in the form of a special object of your collection to grace as a prize in our humble B'aarat Hymns Contest. We aim to reward the most devout and skilled participant with an adequate reward, making it a day to be remembered for years to come.

I understand that these endeavours may not directly line your own purse, dear Exchequer, but I believe the spirit of unity, compassion, and generosity that the Feast of B'aara embodies aligns perfectly with the values of the Consortium. Your support would not only bring joy to the hearts of many but also reflect the grace of the Mother Herself.

And may I offer one more reason to consider our plea? Word of the Consortium's involvement in the preparations for the Feast would undoubtedly reach the sultan's ears, and we can imagine the delight it would bring him. In these times, a good word from the sultan to the city of Baz'eel might prove quite beneficial to the Consortium's interests and bring back good opportunities of growth for Ephia's Well itself.

May the trade winds carry this request to your ears, and may you find it within your considerable influence to grant us your favour. Your name would be remembered with gratitude and sung in the hymns of B'aara for generations to come.

With hopeful anticipation,
Farideh Golbarg, Waterbearer of the Weeping Mother

[An ashfolk, with their white attire standing out, frantically chases after Consortium merchants, finally thrusting the letter into the hands of one startled trader.]

[Random_White_Guy]

Written by a tiny hand and delivered by an ashfolk on behalf of the unwriting Stonefolk

Waterbearer,

Do please forgive as the Exchequer was informed by many you were, in fact, presumed dead. A treat to hear such not the case. As for his title it is a matter of tending to a city, province, or large swath of territory's financial affairs.

Your letter has indeed merit and a gift can be arranged, few things last longer than Basalt. A Basalt Table and two Chairs would be donated to the winner that the Poet may have a firm foundation upon which to write their future cultural, religious, or romantic insights with linguistic aplomb.

Simply send word when winner announced and arrangements can be made for delivery of such a prize.

Elsewise you are welcome to seek out any of the Consortium, though Ariel is the most vocal among us.

Rakim Secretary of...

SOL AUK
Exchequer of The Consortium

[granny]

Esteemed Exchequer Sol Auk Sol Auk,

May the enduring shade of Mother B'aara's grace envelop your path. I extend my deepest gratitude for your prompt and informative response.

Your generosity in offering the Basalt Table and two Chairs is truly magnificent and will undoubtedly add a unique touch to the B'aarat Hymns Contest. However, I must express a concern born out of practicality and the diverse tastes of our community. While such exquisite basalt craftsmanship may be highly prized among the stonefolk, it might not resonate as strongly with the wider audience expected to participate in the contest.

Considering the eclectic mix of individuals likely to partake in the event, I wonder if there might be an alternative prize that could capture the hearts and aspirations of a broader spectrum of contestants. Your insight on this matter would be invaluable, and I eagerly await your suggestion.

In the spirit of maintaining the generous hand you've extended, I also wish to revisit the matter of the B'aarat Almshouse. The needs there are pressing, and I wonder if the Consortium could contribute beds crafted from basalt. Such a gesture would not only fulfill a practical need but also symbolize the enduring support of the Consortium for the well-being of our community. I am confident that Baetu the Blind, the devoted priest overseeing the Almshouse, would be overjoyed at such a thoughtful and substantial contribution.

On a more personal note, I confess to having succumbed to tormented slumber in recent nights, pulled into the abyss that lurks beneath Ephia's Well. But fear not, for I have emerged from that shadowed realm, and my resolve to aid the people of the Well remains unbroken. I stand ready to face whatever challenges may arise and ensure the sanctity of Mother B'aara's teachings.

May the trade winds carry this missive swiftly to you, and I eagerly anticipate your esteemed counsel on the matters presented.

With respect and gratitude,
Farideh Golbarg, Waterbearer of the Weeping Mother

[In the lively plaza, a swift ashfolk, donned in sacred white, weaves through traders. Spotting Consortium merchants, it sprints, delivering the letter with a flourish. Bemused, the merchants exchange glances as the ashfolk vanishes into the crowd.]