Even as I touch quill to parchment, I am troubled with an unfamiliar
tinge of regret. This particular missive is, truly, one I had hopes
would never be required. Alas, I must lay aside personal and
professional disappointment and remain true to my word.

Recognising the value of Industry to all life, and with a newfound
respect for the Smith, Mhaldor has taken great pains to accommodate the
wishes of Lord Phaestus. A non-aggression treaty was drafted, discussed,
debated, rejected and redrafted at His request in the last decade. All
hostilities between the great city-state of Mhaldor and the Order were
called to a cease for the duration of negotiation, and a joint project
was undertaken between leaders of both organisations in the interest of
strengthening ties and cultural understanding. Sir Goryllin's work has
been admirable; his loyalty to his Lord is unquestionable, and his
eagerness to serve worthy of note. Unwavering faith is a precious
commodity, and despite the fact that the west strives to dwell within
this state unerringly, it is not something that even our lowliest
citizen may take for granted.

Unfortunately, such devotion is not present in the spirits of all of His
followers. There have been those who seek to undermine the treaty,
lashing out at Mhaldor and speaking out against His wishes and their
unwelcome restraint on personal freedoms. We have been patient. We have
allowed every opportunity for the Order to establish discipline from
within. We have waited and watched and dealt diplomatically with each
situation as it arose, but patience without progress is foolishness,
intolerable and unacceptable. We have come to understand that there can
be no agreement at this time. While mortals dictate policy to the Divine
they claim to serve, no reasonable terms may be met.

This is not an open declaration of war. It is, instead, a statement of
the withdrawal of all restrictions placed on Mhaldorian citizens
regarding aggression directed against the Order of Phaestus, its shrines
and temples. We cannot and will not be expected to value the well-being
of any organisation beyond the ability of its own members.


In Their eternal service,
Nulaye Vastel,
Tyrannus of Mhaldor.

Penned by my hand on the 24th of Glacian, in the year 532 AF.