In-Game Date: 28, La tesummer Year 150
IRL Date: 24, July 2024
My Fellow Watchers,
It is with great pride and a sense of duty that I address you today. It has been four months since our first expedition, and we have already made remarkable strides in our mission to protect Mistwood Lake and secure the Wilds. I am honored to share our successes and discuss how we can continue to grow and improve as a guild.
Accomplishments
We have achieved several significant objectives:
We have successfully removed numerous threats in the Wilds, ensuring the safety of our homeland, Mistwood Lake.
We have established vital havens in key regions: Faeville, Scalemire Fen Encampment, Wolf's Rest, and Silkbranch. These havens provide secure bases of operation and refuge for our Watchers as we explore further into the Wilds.
Our dedicated Watchers have discovered a potential cure for the deadly Shimmer Rot, a breakthrough that offers hope to many affected by this terrible affliction.
We have a lead on information about the miasma in the Webwoods.
Acknowledging Areas for Improvement
Despite our successes, recent events highlighted areas where the guild can grow and improve. I take full responsibility for lack of clarity and leadership. These areas include,
A lack of a clearly defined code of conduct and protocols for our guild.
Confusion regarding the chain of command and ranks. Every member of the Mist Watch holds the same rank (Watcher) and bears equal responsibility and authority in the field. This is deliberate so Watchers can act on behalf of the Mist Watch, and address issues that arise with one another. I am your only direct report, though my taskmasters may assign tasks to you on the guild's behalf.
Greater need for accurate information in the Watcher Reports about the expeditions, the dangers, and the discoveries being made. These reports are our main method of disseminating critical information amongst the Watch.
The tragic loss of Watchers and countrymen, such as Watchers Voltaire Casino and Garon Gallbraith, due to insufficient communication and planning during expeditions.
Deteriorated relations with allies, the Tortles, as a result of not routinely checking in with them.
Steps for Improvement
In response to these challenges and my failings as a leader, I am implementing several key initiatives:
The Watcher's Code: This will dictate our core tenets of kinship, respect, and courage. It will include codes of conduct for both on and off the field, including prioritizing clear and constant communication amongst Watchers on the field.
Enhanced Watcher Reports: We are adjusting the parameters of our reports to prioritize accurate information about dangers and opportunities in the Wilds. This information is vital for the success and safety of Watchers going on expeditions–you could save a Watcher’s life by accurately reporting the dangers you faced and discoveries you uncovered.
Watcher Ranks: As of now, it's our intention for Watchers to remain at the same rank. Any additional ranks or promotions are a larger discussion, which my staff and I have begun to explore. Please give us time to consider this.
Why Maintaining Integrity and Discipline is Critical
The Mist Watch is entrusted with unparalleled authority in the Wilds, a privilege that demands each of us uphold our responsibilities with integrity and discipline. I believe in granting you the freedom to act decisively for the survival of Mistwood Lake, within the bounds of our laws and reason. However, I must remind you that I am accountable to higher powers eager to replace me should we abuse our freedoms. My successor would likely favor the interests of the Council and Academia over the Watch. I share this not as a threat but as a reality of our situation. This is why I must implement these initiatives.
Conclusion
Let us move forward with renewed determination and unity. Respect the chain of command, support one another, and uphold the honor and integrity of the Mist Watch. Together, we will continue to protect Mistwood Lake and ensure the safety of our comrades.
Yours in service,
Guildmaster Juniper Sapsong