Recently in the City of Dreaming Books, the main character, Optimus Yarnspinner, finds that there is a race of cyclopean organisms living in tunnel systems underneath the city of Bookholm. These creatures are intelligent, peaceful, practically worship books, and mine hundreds of diamonds that range from pumpkin size to apartment size. They also collect incredibly valuable books. They have a fearsome reputation, which was created in order to keep them untouched and safe from people who would do them harm.
While reading this, I thought that the creatures (called the Fearsome Booklings), perhaps didn't need to hide themselves away from all civilization at the risk of extinction. With their immense fortunes both of valuable books and diamonds, they could trade/sell their goods with the people aboveground. Then they would have money to do whatever they like: protect themselves, acquire more books, acquire better mining technology, and promote the general well-being of their race. Since they could potentially fund just about all industry in Bookholm, this might also generate deep respect for the Booklings. Attacking them might eventually seem like attacking the government. If seriously attacked, their extinction could lead to the total collapse of society. Though exposure could improve their lives in many aspects, it could also lead to several problems. For instance, many people may immediately try to kill all of the Booklings and rob them of all of their possessions.
After thinking about this for a while, I've decided I don't think the Booklings should expose themselves. They already have a well-functioning life on their own that is pleasurable to them and doesn't have any problems or flaws. That is the perfect way to live: no problems, no concerns, no sadness.
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