Greetings, Sapience.

The tragic and reprehensible theft of the Infernal Forge has raised
concerns throughout the Bastion, but most prolific has been the rumour
that Lord Phaestus was somehow involved in the events that propagated
the loss. After some investigation and consideration, it is now my
unfortunate duty to report to Sapience that these allegations are rooted
in fact. The Smith did, indeed, assist Mhaldor's effort to steal the
Forge from Ashtan.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Fendo Sehr'asa, a
representative of the realm of Industry. It was my hope that opening a
dialogue between our organisations would lead to answers and a peaceful
resolution, but our meeting only served to confirm Ashtan's suspicions.
Fendo explained that Mhaldor had outsourced the task of strategic
initiation, requesting assistance from the Smith Himself. When I
enquired as to why Lord Phaestus had chosen to facilitate the forces of
Evil, the only explanation proffered was that cooperation with Mhaldor
in this endeavour was His will.

The motivation behind this unusual alliance, as well as its depth, thus
remains obscured, and while speculation runs rampant, one thing is
clear: the Bastion must call into question the position of Industry
within the scope of its own political agendas. This statement, however,
need not raise concern for organisations with close ties to the Smith.
Lord Phaestus may Patron Cyrene, but we are aware that the Heart of the
Vashnars beats independently of His Will. It is clearly the hands of
Industry stained red with our soldiers' blood, not the cobblestones of
Centre Crossing.

Overseer of Ashtan,
Darknight Sioraiocht-Sar'vet


Penned by my hand on the 18th of Miraman, in the year 574 AF.