A letter from the Pile: The Astronomers of Q'tolip (PC/DM)

[WriterX]

Astronomers,

 Despite what has happened in the past week, I seek to know what are your ongoing goals and projects for the sake of the Well. I do not ask about your private matters, but instead what you may seek to accomplish in the coming months.

 It is no secret, many are furious with some of your Apothars over recent events, and this will impact the Allotment, thus the funds available to you, but if you do have any projects for the betterment of the Well I would wish to hear them, know what you might need for them. Some of my own projects are well known, but I would wish to hear what your own plans are.

Legate Marcellus Saenus

[cmenden]

Dear Legate,

I would advise writing such letters without threats regarding the Allotment. I know it's the reason I chose not to respond and I presume it is the same for my apprentices.

As I'm satisfied with our recent Allotment, I see no reason to continue ignoring this letter.

Our plans are simple.

1) Contingent upon Zenithar approval, we will capture the Gutter Beast and either banish it back into the Depths or Keep it for Study (dealer's choice). I am in the process of convincing Master Oro of the dangers of rigidity at this time. Personally, I would prefer the Study option, as this allows us to deal with future similar creatures. This is not a singular entity.

2) It is irresponsible to live on the outer shell of this Super Structure without a more thorough understanding of what exists beneath us. Future expeditions will be required into the Depths. These expeditions will need to be State-sanctioned and handled with care but will greatly benefit the Well's security and future growth.

3) Qa'im is coming and despite malicious rumors to the contrary, the Tower has no connection to Qa'im or knowledge of their works. Because of this, we will need material to research if we wish to devise countermeasures against them. With the Tower's brain trust working in tandem with the Janissaries' manpower, we will neutralize this threat.

4) Whether it's a trap, a wild-goose chase, or something real, assembling the map fragments into a complete whole and finding the Tonsure's relic is a priority. At this time, I think it will only be possible by bringing together the disparate groups holding the fragments. Given how each organization wishes exclusive ownership over the find, a diplomatic solution will need to be reached.

Obviously, these goals and projects align to our current Apothars well. In my opinion, Cosine is best suited to studying the Beast. I am most skilled at maintaining diplomatic relations required for projects requiring multiple organizations in the Well. And last but not least, Mae's knowledge of engineering is unparalleled in Ephia's Well, so she will be required to solve the Qa'im Problem.

Regards,
Estellise Azimi