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FY Q2 REPORT: SPECIAL PROJECTS, COOPERATIVE UNIVERSAL PUBLISHING (CUP)
Prepared by: Elenora Beatrice Perez, Project Coordinator, Special Projects
Executive Summary:
Our progress this quarter has taken several significant turns. Not only have we continued to navigate delicate political landscapes, but we’ve also faced several key moments that have tested our team’s cohesion and commitment to the larger mission. Most notably, Sage Relias’s trial in Chairo turned from an apparent defeat into a masterstroke, as he expertly maneuvered to expose two corrupt council members, effectively positioning himself in a more influential role. Additionally, Rae’s final confrontation with the demon in the Holy City provided the party with a public victory, though not everyone was satisfied with the methods she employed.
However…
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PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS:
1)The Battle with Anhinga: A Hard-Earned Victory
One of the most intense moments this quarter was Rae’s battle against the demon Anhinga in Amantia. Anhinga, a powerful bird and naga-like demon, returned from Naught (maybe) with the intent to wreak havoc on the royal court (maybe). The fight was a grueling display of Rae’s developing combat prowess, aided by the quick thinking of me... and the rest of the team. Anhinga’s serpentine tails and saber were formidable, but Rae exploited his weaknesses. Ultimately, through teamwork, resourcefulness, and willful determination, Rae was able to banish Anhinga (though the demon’s final cryptic words about meeting his Mistress for tea still hang over the two of us like a drunk shadow... get it?) Given the circumstances, we decided not to share such an improbable invitation with our colleagues.
SWOT Analysis:
* Strengths: Rae’s combat skills continue to improve, as evidenced by her ability to exploit Anhinga’s weaknesses and take advantage of the chaos. The team’s coordination in battle, particularly my tactical assistance (throwing stones), was crucial in neutralizing the demon. I’ll also add that Tetora’s quick decision to disarm and help Prince Mito escape Anhinga’s possession probably saved his life and countless others.
* Weaknesses: While the victory was decisive, the battle left Rae mentally and physically exhausted (and very, very grimy). Anhinga’s last message suggests that even demonic exorcism may not be as permanent as we would like, and there is concern that his Mistress wants to get herself involved more in the central plot.
* Opportunities: This victory solidifies Rae’s reputation as the Chosen One and strengthens the people’s trust in her abilities. Additionally, the defense of Amantia has earned us valuable goodwill with the royal family, particularly King Saulus (and I don’t think he makes close friends all that easily).
* Threats: Anhinga’s parting words suggest that this may not be the last time we encounter him, and his return could come with even more devastating consequences. The lingering threat of his Mistress also looms large over future operations.
Proposed Future Activities:
* Continue to monitor any signs of demonic activity that could signal Anhinga’s return.
* Provide additional support to Rae as she processes the emotional toll of the battle, ensuring she is prepared for future confrontations. (Like a Girl’s Day Out! Can I submit a vacation request? What form do I use?)
2) Relias’s Trial: Turning the Tables
What began as a sham trial orchestrated by Councilman Pravum quickly became a strategic victory for Relias. Accused of various (ridiculous) transgressions, including abandoning his duties and inciting discord, Relias calmly dismantled each charge, piece by piece. His revelations exposed critical evidence that shifted the focus to the corruption of Pravum and his ally, Councilman Procul. A botched assassination attempt on Father Irijah, our repentant reverend, further solidified Relias’s position, allowing him to invoke a Crisis of Faith in the Holy City of Chairo and—somewhat astonishingly—resulting in his appointment as temporary administrator.
SWOT Analysis:
The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
* Strengths: Relias’s unflappable demeanor during the trial was a key factor in turning the situation around. By producing evidence, such as the Turri Accords, and with the support of Prince Mito, he exposed corruption at the highest levels of Chairo’s government, church, or whatever rules highest here. (Money? Power? Popularity?)
* Weaknesses: While Relias emerged victorious, his decision to confront the council publicly may have made him a more visible target for future political attacks. The councilmen and their supporters certainly won’t forget this, never mind the fact that there’s a would-be assassin running amok.
* Opportunities: This trial has strengthened our ties with key political figures and highlighted the pressing need for further reforms within Chairo. Relias is now in a more influential position to effect these changes, and Prince Mito has gained valuable political capital in the process (or, to put it simply, he managed to put his older brother in his place while remaining sassy, I mean, classy).
* Threats: Procul and Pravum are likely plotting their next move, and the political climate remains unstable. While Relias may have won this round, we must be cautious in the future. I’m also a little concerned that this was all too easy.
Proposed Future Activities:
* Monitor the political situation in Chairo closely to ensure stability and prevent further undermining from the church’s administration.
* Continue to foster Prince Mito’s growing role in leadership. He has proven to be a valuable, if somewhat unpredictable, ally. (Thespians...)
3) Rae’s Stand in the Holy City
In the closing chapter of this quarter, Rae faced one of her most defining moments yet. A demon, aligned with darker forces threatening the city, appeared in Chairo, challenging both Rae’s leadership and her ability to protect those she is sworn to defend. In a public display of her growing commitment to her Purpose, Rae successfully banished the demon in front of the people. However, her methods—pushing the limits of her power and making decisions independently—left some members of our team uneasy (Relias, in particular, seems quite irritated.)
SWOT Analysis:
* Strengths: Rae’s public stand against the demon solidified her role as the Chosen One in the eyes of the people (at least some of them), and her demonstration of power has undoubtedly bolstered confidence in her abilities.
* Weaknesses: Rae’s decision to act without full consultation has left some of the team feeling disconnected. There is concern that her growing independence might lead to more risky choices in the future. I’m not too worried, though, just as long as she steers away from her tendency to self-sacrifice. (She assures me she knew what she was doing this time and didn’t think the risk was all that much.)
* Opportunities: This moment provides a chance for Rae to solidify her leadership role further. With proper support and self-reflection, she can learn from this experience and grow stronger, both in her confidence and in her ability to unite the team. (You can do it, Rae!)
* Threats: The emotional toll on Rae and the team is not insignificant. There are fractures that will need to be mended if we are to continue forward as a cohesive unit. (We just need a bit of a cool-down first.)
Proposed Future Activities:
* Facilitate discussions within the team to address any lingering concerns about Rae’s leadership and decision-making process.
* Provide Rae with opportunities to further develop her combat and diplomacy skills to ensure that future decisions are made with a balance of leadership and collaboration.
METRICS AND KPIS:
* Political Maneuvering: Relias’s successful exposure of Councilman Pravum and Councilman Procul at his trial resulted in a significant shift in power dynamics within Chairo. (We must also thank Vicar Thomas, at least a little.)
* Public Confidence: Rae’s public banishment of the demon has increased her standing among the people by approximately 25% (informal estimate based on the loudness and sentiment of crowd reactions as well as the speed of local gossip).
* Team Morale: While Rae’s victory was a success, team cohesion has dropped by an estimated 15% due to unresolved tensions regarding her methods. The significant outlier dragging down the average remains the oh-so-subtle tension between Rae and Relias. (Honestly, some sage, who will remain unnamed, needs to get over themselves.)
Future Outlook:
The coming quarter will likely bring new challenges, particularly as we continue to navigate Chairo’s complex political environment and the lingering threats from demonic forces. However, with our recent victories and our new alliances, we are in a strong position to move forward. The team will need to rally together and resolve any internal conflicts in order to stay on course and continue working toward our mission of “Saving Speranza.”
Closing Remarks:
On a more personal note, I would once again like to formally request a promotion in recognition of the tireless efforts I have contributed to both the diplomatic and combative aspects of this project. Additionally, Clare Mercure, Director of Human Resources, I would appreciate it if you would kindly forward the requirements for becoming a content creator with CUP. Given my proven skills in crisis management, magic manipulation, and the occasional touch of diplomatic finesse, I believe I offer a unique perspective and skill set to the organization. I highly recommend that you consider this during your ongoing investigation into Euphridia’s actions, which likely violated the terms of her contract, resulting in consequences that will undoubtedly require CUP to provide proper recompense to the affected parties (me and Rae, of course).
Elenora Beatrice Perez
God-like Go-getter and Project Coordinator, Special Projects
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