Concerning True Lycanthropes.

Bolton, your note about sharing information strikes near and true to my heart. You have the right intention, but caution is in order.

In the years I have been in Travance, I have come across several facts that if they became common knowledge, would be extremely detrimental to the lives of everyone in Travance. Sometimes, even knowing a fact without the ability to act on it can mark you for death from the likes of Evernight, or other nefarious opponents.

Collaboration is key. Rather than assuming that Witch Hunters are withholding information, ask them for help and advice. If you want to deal with a plant-based threat, you would talk to the Druids. If there's an issue with an altar in the ruins, speak to a member of the Clergy. In each case, the group holds the expertise needed to deal with the situation. After all, you likely would not approach a member of the Clergy to deal with plants and wildlife.

Some times, the answer is "If I tell you, it makes things worse." That is how a certain dark fey was freed from containment - anyone who heard his story was compelled to help free him.

Do not assume someone knows something, and is withholding it. Your initial statement assumes members of the Academy were aware of these creatures - do you have evidence to back this claim? There have been times people assumed I knew facts I did not, and it was detrimental.

It is my personal belief that information should be shared, when possible, as long as it does not pose a threat to the populace, or run the risk of becoming twisted in retelling. When in doubt, the best action is to refer a querrent to the best authority on the subject, so that data can be shared accurately.

Sir Weaveforger's words strike nearest the truth.

Education is good. But a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. On behalf of the Hunters, I vow on my dedication to the Quill and The Great Story that any information that CAN be shared WILL be shared. But I equally swear that that which can not be shared, will not be.

As an aside, would you not agree that it is often better to wait until ALL facts are known before making information public, rather than in drips and drabs that can lead to speculation, misinformation, and panic?

Coincidentally, before I had seen this posting I had already taken steps to address the very situation you've described. Keep an eye on the Chronicle, Bolton. I think you'll be pleased.

IN THE MEANTIME, FOR ALL CONCERNED

Do not attempt to capture a lycanthrope on your own. Find a Hunter, preferably of the Reign House.

If possible, do not strike a deathblow upon a lycanthrope. If you find yourself in "possession" of an unconscious werewolf, bring it to a Hunter, again preferably of the Reign House.

I will remind you all that to hunt or study a lycanthrope is to hunt and study a living, breathing, thinking, possibly terrified humanoid. A person. One who may not even be aware of their actions. I urge appropriate restraint.

Those who wish to engage in such research and study: please contact me at your earliest convenience. Your help may prove invaluable. Nigel, Dr. Solvei, I would speak with you as soon as possible, if you could. Bolton, I invite you to be part of the conversation as well.

I politely request that any further public discussion on the topic be closed for the time being, and that any further action on the subject be brought directly to me.

-- Ehlena Reign