AR20, Winterfilth 3

To Their Imperial Majesties, Aragus Maximus the First, Aragithalas Sercenornorow Paurgiliath-Kanan, Emperor of the Free Imperia, Great Chieftain of the Council of Clan Chieftains, and King of the Arda Star, Laurana Bloodrunner Eventine Paurgiliath-Kanan, Empress of the Free Imperia, Her Imperial Highness Amberlinthalisa Paurgiliath-Kanan and His Excellency, Mica of the Nine, Imperial Archmage of the Order Magica and Regent of the Free Imperia,

By the hand of Jon Architect, Imperial Scribe, reporting on research and magineering progress in the Free Imperia this Winterfilth 3, Year 20, Age of Return

By the grace of whatever powers watch over this increasingly complex endeavor, I submit this summary of ongoing projects and research within the Free Imperia. The sheer volume of reports continues to test the limits of even my admittedly considerable faculties, but I endeavor to present a clear and concise overview for your most esteemed consideration. In my capacity as a leading expert in Spelljamming navigation, I note with satisfaction the continued training of new navigators for the Imperia's voyages of discovery.

Imperial Infrastructure and Fortification:

The Great Imperial Pyramid project, while ambitious in its inception, remains in a state of… suspended progress. No significant reports of advancement have reached my desk in the past cycle. Resources may need to be re-evaluated, or perhaps a more direct Imperial decree is required to reignite this monumental undertaking.

The Fortification Initiative, spearheaded by the Field Engineering Corps under the direction of Arch Duke Thalion Paurgiliath, continues apace. Reports indicate the successful completion of several local tree forts and the initial phases of Sky Castle construction. The integration of the Rathkeeps Corps' expertise has proven invaluable. The Biology Section of the FEC, under the insightful guidance of Lieutenant Shayl Okarn and in collaboration with the Church of Eru Ilùvatar, has made promising strides in cultivating specialized flora for these fortifications, including initial trials with Nahre Lotus cultivars for secure water production at Paurgiliath Peacekeepers Fortress PK#3. Furthermore, their collaborative efforts with the Great Shipyard's Elven Hull growing projects and the Silvanesti and Elven Confederate Navy show potential for synergistic advancements in defensive structures.

The War Engines group within the FEC continues its research and development of advanced siege weaponry. Multiple variations of the Polybolos are under experimentation, with a focus on modularity and, intriguingly, the integration of experimental propulsion systems. The R&D department, nominally under War Engines but drawing expertise from across the Imperia, remains a vital hub of innovation. The Art in Works Department diligently ensures that all manufactured equipment, even of a martial nature, adheres to aesthetically pleasing yet functional designs.

Naval and Trade Expansion:

The Fleet Building initiative, managed by the FEA Group under the capable stewardship of Dame Gerdie and Lady Malinde, reports continued progress. The West Arda Trading Company has successfully constructed one hundred hulls in the past six months, contributing significantly to both their own burgeoning fleet and the Free Imperia Navy. Arch Duke Thalion's magewives continue to demonstrate remarkable efficiency in hull fabrication. Amy Paurgiliath, with her keen understanding of ship magic and market dynamics, actively researches and tracks potential suppliers and magical equipment suitable for both sailing and Spelljamming vessels for the FEA Group. Her inquiries into rumors of ship invisibility amongst local mariners are particularly noteworthy.

Rannathon Paurgiliath's work with the West Arda Trading Company and FEA Group in navigating and indexing Realmspace markets continues to yield valuable intelligence. His deployment of the mirror network for tracking prices and fulfilling orders has streamlined the surreptitious export/import program. The data gathered by accompanying scribes provides crucial insights into resource availability and pricing.

Research and Development:

The Glider Design project, while facing initial engineering challenges, reports ongoing efforts to produce viable prototypes. The Test Pilots cadre within the Field Engineering Corps, often composed of talented multi-class spellcasters, bravely undertake the crucial task of evaluating these nascent aerial technologies. Their experiments with ship-to-ship aerial maneuvers and ground assault/infiltration tactics hold significant strategic promise.

The research into the Staff of Power, Crucible, and Avatar continues, though the most recent reports indicate a need for further dedicated investigation to yield significant breakthroughs.

Eluriel Paurgiliath reports steady progress on her alchemical research, including the attempted creation of Potions of Odrovir and Luck, as well as her innovative work on reinforcing and shaping trusses for rapid Fey Cherry growth in collaboration with the Biology Section of the FEC. Her focus on biosuitable rigid reinforcement and material compatibility is particularly promising for future construction endeavors.

Her twin sister, Eluthien Paurgiliath, similarly advances in her alchemical studies, currently focused on the creation of Potions of Language Learning and Intensity.

Elurond and Elurion Paurgiliath, both accomplished engineers and artificers within the Church of Eru Ilùvatar and initiates of the Order Magika, actively contribute their expertise to the Field Engineering Corps. Their specific projects are integrated within the broader FEC initiatives.

Lieutenant Shayl Okarn continues her multifaceted work within the Field Engineering Corps, expertly balancing organizational and recruitment duties with her engineering acumen and pioneering research into applied bee-friendship. Her efforts significantly enhance the Biology Section's capabilities, and her training of bee-clerics for the Fortification Initiative demonstrates a unique and valuable synergy.

Other Initiatives:

The Historic Tree Quests, a long-term endeavor of the Church of Eru Ilùvatar, have thus far yielded no discoveries of the sought-after ancient trees. The one-year search mark approaches, and a reassessment of strategies may be warranted.

The initiative to Find/Track/Infiltrate/Compromise the Cult of Sauron, spearheaded by Imperial Dispatch and the Paurgiliath Peacekeepers, has progressed from initial rumors to active intelligence gathering. Further reports are anticipated as our agents delve deeper into this shadowy threat.

The Church of Eru Ilùvatar continues its dedicated research into animal friendship with bees and the cultivation of magical and healing plants, complementing their ongoing support of the Fortification Initiative. The Paurgiliath Peacekeepers, in addition to their vital role in intelligence operations, continue their research into large domesticable fauna, with the First Rhóvanost heavy cavalry unit actively training other centuries in their unique riding techniques. Their collaboration with the 2nd Cîwharnith Mounted Century on the mainland dinosaur breeding program proceeds under strict protocols.

In conclusion, Your Imperial Majesty and Your Excellency, the Free Imperia remains a hotbed of innovation and expansion across numerous fronts. While some projects proceed with greater alacrity than others, the dedication and ingenuity of our researchers, engineers, and military personnel are undeniable. I remain, as always, your most humble and diligent servant.

Respectfully submitted,

Jon Architect, Imperial Scribe.

Campaign History