A Response to Recent Events in the Valakarma

By Council of Elder Bookmasters and Venerate Scholars

1 Ninyena, ill95

To the Citizens of the nations of the Verushan Empire and across the world,

For centuries, it has been the charge of Dasholin Scholars of the Eternal Library to catalog the events of the world and to be stewards of our collective knowledge. Any person, no matter their place of origin or station in life, who comes into contact with our organization knows the depth of importance we place upon this charge and the seriousness of our commitment to ensure that the work of our scholars is free of all political entanglements. Our ranks commit themselves to avoid any interference from any force seeking to influence the tying of the long knot of history, regardless of the outcome. Those who know their history are keenly aware that, almost 1700 years ago, this was not the case. The Dasholin Scholars stood proud as agents of change in the world. Then the heavens burned. The seas emptied. Fields became fallow. The Lonely Road was soon overcrowded with far too many souls taking their inevitable journey towards the grey horizon, the one we must all take. Since that time, our mandate has been clear. To document history, we must be free from it.

To maintain a position of neutrality is both painful and necessary. We must stand witness to the events of history, including monumental advancements such as the founding of the Arcane Games and the signing of the 71st Sunrise Agreement, which brought forth a millennium of peace between the great Empires of Kir. It also means we must document the ebb and flow of peoples, societies, and cultures. We bore witness to the destruction of the uprising in Milanka during the horrific civil war that claimed thousands. We stood in silent vigil with the parents of Samghara when Briehebad’s Curse stole almost an entire generation of children. Never have we been immune to the ongoing suffering of the Hanaqi people at the hands of the Erían raiders who continue to pillage their land and take their people.

While most understand this commitment, we know it is not a popular position with all. As is assessed by our branch in the city of Pradita, we are keenly knowledgeable of the many challenges that afflict the people of the Valakarma District of that city. Our ranks documented the first uprising of the Shroud of Freedom over 1000 years ago when they seized the Goshaka Opera House and took control of the district. Many citizens of Pradita began their walk at the hands of The Shroud. Their experiences are also documented. Whether the conditions in the Valakarma have been met for a second uprising is not our place to determine. And as should be abundantly clear by this and all formal communications from the Dasholin Scholars of the Eternal Library, no conflict, event, government, or military force (martial or arcane) will force us into taking any action that will alter events.

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

We are well aware of the supposed distribution of documents claimed to be held and classified by our organization by a group claiming to be The Shroud of Freedom, an organization identified by the Empire as a terrorist organization and dismantled centuries ago. We are also aware of their accusations of the Eternal Libray. We prefer to ignore such claims as they are both frequent and unfounded. However, the Council of Elder Bookmasters and Venerate Scholars has determined that the citizens of the Verushan Empire, and most importantly, those living in the city of Pradita, deserve a response. Be assured your safety has not been jeopardized.

On the 25 Avena i1195, The Council received a report from our outpost on the island of Golau of a possible breach in our security. After completing our initial assessment, we can confirm a limited number of minor artifacts and documents appear missing. The Collections and Acquisitions Department immediately initiated a complete inventory of all sensitive materials and confirmed that all arcane artifacts of significance are accounted for and secure. The department is also currently working to identify the exact nature of the security breach and to identify any individuals involved. We expect that report to be completed soon. The findings of their report will be available to the public. In adherence to any local laws and government processes, we will bring those responsible to swift and complete justice fitting the nature of this crime.

Regarding the supposed documents being distributed, the Eternal Library will not confirm or deny any document’s validity without proper time to assess its authenticity. We also want to affirm to the people of the Empire and all states in which we operate that the Dasholin Scholars do not unnecessarily collect any information, artifact, or technology, arcane or otherwise. We will not validate any argument that the Eternal Library is a repository of dangerous artifacts and information. This is not our mission, nor is it the truth. We are the stewards of the long knot of history, not the ones responsible for its tying. We invite anyone with such concerns to contact the closest branch to your location and consult with your local librarians, who will be enthusiastic about sharing more information about this element of our work.

To all concerned citizens, know that all available resources to the Dasholin Scholars are being directed to discovering the nature of this attack. While we maintain independence and neutrality, we also know the need for security for all people. As such, we are working in cooperation and full compliance with Empress Verisha and the ruling family of Pradita, led by the Living Autumn Mother Nanpia Goshaka. We are encouraged and grateful for their support.

Should any person have information that will help the Eternal Library in our pursuit of justice, please contact your local branch. Rewards will be commensurate to said information’s value. Likewise, any individuals, groups, arcane cults, or otherwise seen as impeding the necessary work of our investigations should be aware that the Dasholin Scholars have full authority to seek all necessary measures to bring this event to a quick and decisive conclusion.

We remain vigilant and continue to seek knowledge.

Through this search, we serve.

The Council of Elder Bookmasters and Venerate Scholars of the Eternal Library