Greetings everyone,

Last night Basalt, the noble Artificer, and hence a member of the Merchant Guild, spoke to me on behalf of Ragarn. I was pleased to learn that Ragarn is indeed still in charge of the shop and of course follows Sa, which should qualm the fears of some of this temples members.

However, Basalt explained that the clerks who work at Ragarns Rune shop are now feeling harassed about their religious devotion. And Ragarn himself, both as a member of this temple and as one of the highest-ranking members of the merchants guild, feels personally attacked as well. Basalt also explained that being a Frontacian, Ragarn would most likely not feel a need to answer questionings of his faith.

Basalt warned us that if actions begin to occur on behalf of the Spurian temple of Sa against his store, the merchants guild would not be pleased. Some of you may not realize the extent of influence the Merchant Guild has in this city-if one guild member is incensed, soon they all are. I told him that I knew there were some concerned temple members who were unsure who ran the shop these days and wished to ask a few questions.

Hoping to calm what has become an awkward situation, I asked Basalt to extend an invitation for Ragarn to visit the temple and introduce himself. I thought perhaps some diplomacy was in order. Sadly, his work as a merchant keeps him quite busy so he is rarely if ever in the city of Spur. However, Basalt will pass along my invitation.

As I recall the events that preceded Basalts visit, I wonder how much better this situation could have been if some temple members had not been quite so zealous in voicing their opinions. I see great devotion and passion in those who spoke the loudestand surely this pleases Sabut I also see a need for tolerance and patience. Instead of arguing, why didnt we simply agree to ask Ragarn politely and avoid all this tension? Perhaps then the message to Ragarn would have been in a much more positive light.

We need to work together and see the benefits in all ideasfor some benefits are usually there! Im sure that even Ragarn sees the benefits in having Sas mark or some mention of Sa in his Shop. He may even have agreed to put one there-after all he is Saian. Perhaps he still will. Or, perhaps hes chosen not to for a very good reason. How would we ever know his thoughts without asking?

I have met many merchants, as Im sure you have as well, and they have always treated me kindly no matter how many questions I asked. Last night Basalt was very pleasant and treated me with the utmost respect and courtesy. It seems to me that everyone assumed the worst would happen!

Would I like to see a mark of Sa in Ragarns shop or any magick shop? Yes. Do I think Ragarns contributions to temple coffers are his business only? Yes. Do I think that Rayner or anyone needs this temples permission to speak to Ragarn? No. I have never known this temple to have a stranglehold on the freedom of Sas followers in their attempts to serve Him and I hope I never do. Do I think this temple could have handled a concern of some of its clergy better? Yes.

In closing, I thank Basalt for speaking with me and humbly urge all of you to remember that not only does diplomacy serve us well in dealing with this city, including the Merchant Guild members, but it also serves us well in dealing with each other.

Above all, please accept my comments in the spirit in which they are given. I care deeply about this temple, all of Sas followers, and Sa, and wish the best for all of us.

Sa bless us all with patience and tolerance.

Sincerely,
Kyrinne Woodmist