As I write this it occurs to me that my time on this realm is short, I may have another twenty good years left in me or I may have twenty days. Frankly it frightens me, so I write this for my children and my children’s children, so that they may understand me, for who I was and what I have done. I am cursed; to begin with.
I stared off under a different name, my clan name was originally ‘Tombhelm’. I haven’t gone by that name in over a century, and I no longer belong, it is not who I am now and it will never be my name again. See I began my adult life as a guard, just like my father and his father before him, but I was a disgrace, not fit to guard so the clan humoured me. They had me guard there library, now that I think back I see that I do the same and give demeaning tasks if not worse to incompetent Fist. Anyway, I spent most of my early days guarding that post like the fool boy I was, after some time it occurred to me that I had little else to do but spent my time reading and eating. I got fat, both physically and on knowledge.
If I ever tell people of my past, I tell them that this eventually give me a wonder lust that got the better of me and I left the clan, wife, children and all. But that is a lie, one that I have told many times that I now believe myself. My family knows what happened and why I was outcast for my failure I do not need to repeat it. It was on that day that I took the name ‘Rocshanks’ for myself and headed north, out of the icy cold peaks of Amn and into the new brave realm of the sword coast.
Skip a couple decades and you’d have found me a drunken bar brawler and a would be tomb raider. At that time I still longed to return home, I still hid my first name in fear that my kin would hear it and realize who I was. In all my days, from that day to this one, it has never happened, and it is never likely to happen ...and if it did I would no longer care. My time as a tare away criminal where spent with a giant of a human called Kelton and a cursed blood tiefling nicknamed Sonny. Kelton was man that could cleave a tree in half and Sonny was a sneaky bastard, slit many throats from the shadows. I was the anvil of our team, I took the beatings and went back for seconds. My face does not thank me for it.
This is when the curse reared its ugly head again, not content to ruin my former life but now to end the lives of so many others. You see our crew was well balanced but we always needed a doctor, priest or some spell chucker to round us off, the problem was they always ended up dead. We lost a lot of hired spell swords and the like. Our worse lose was thirteen men in the Cloakwood mines, we stormed that place with what would have been two dozen swordarms. Less than half of us escaped with heavy wounds, only myself, Kelton and Sonny left unskaved . This curse was blamed on the tiefling of course, I fecking hated that wee bastard cursed blood.
I found that my lifestyle became very profitable in the crew. I wore the finest full plate, plated in gold and encrusted in gem stones. I was so devoted to the following of Abbathor, he would have been proud. If he saw me now he would more than likely spit on me, yet I merely pay the bastard lip service these days. My fortune was short lived, with the departure of Kelton, who returned northward to his home and the disappearance of Sonny, I saw fit to waste my coin on booze, loose wenches and gambling. When I was broke and the team was gone, making coin was hard. I could barely scraped together drinking money let alone pat for the wenches I was used to.
So I joined the Flaming Fist. Many people at the time thought I was only dwarf to join the fist, but that’s a load of toss. There had been many dwarfs before me, there was even a detachment used against the Red Wizard War long before I even joined. Then not to recently we have used that detachment again that damn undead dragon; what I night that spoiled! We didn’t even get to the starters at the Duke’s dinner with Rokranon and his bum boys.
The early days of the Flaming Fist were hard ones, Captain Crownsliver, Company Sergeant Heppenzeiler, Sergeant Harrow and Corporal Ness whipped me into shape. Well maybe not Sergeant Harrow, that lazy nonce would have barely scratched his own arse. If things had have been different, however, such as, if the Ironfaar clan had have been more than a mere whisper of its former self then I would have never have joined the Flaming Fist. So when I heard rumblings that the Ironfaar Clan had new leadership I made sure to extend the hand of the Fist and forged an alliance with them. From little beginnings they went from strength to strength, and I made sure that any troubles would disappear that could have hindered the clan.
That came to an end though when Crownsilver offered me an ultimatum, either stay in my officer rank and remain the Ironfaar Fist diplomat or give it up and become a Sergeant. I couldn’t resist, it was a bigger pay packet and I skipped the pretty rank of Corporal. I think it was about this time that our secret weapon join us, Myrhun. Sent from Candlekeep he was a man that lusted after power, I saw it in him. It was the same lust I had for gold. Myrhun became a good friend, many guard shifts were spent taking the piss out of each. I miss my friend...
Then the war was to come, no one saw it coming. Beren was one of us or so we thought. It turned out he merely joined the order to protect his own interests. As an apprentice he spoke to superiors as equals, he lead raids into territories we had no domain over and even launched an assault into the depths of the ground in a quest to purge Drow from their holes. Cross started of as a good man, but whatever it was that he found it changed him. Some kind of demonic rock if I remember, we held it in the castle for a while, had it guarded in a locked chest with two guard posted to it.
We were to outcast Beren and punish him for his disobedience but before we could He fled and formed his own mercenary company. His stance directly opposed the Flaming Fist and our control. Cross and his Valiant Shield declared war on us when we finally caught up to him. He would not stand down when demanded to, things turned ugly from there on in. I have little memory of it now, but from all accounts there was much bloodshed.
After war was declared on these brigands, Toybox sought me out. Toybox, or as she introduced herself to me as the ‘misses’, it didn’t really matter what her alias was we had a file on her and her activities a mile long. Nothing was done about it of course. See the Fist ad thieves had a mutual agreement, you pay us and we pretend it didn’t happen. Those were the god old days when the thieves guild was smart and lead by an intelligent leader, unlike today. Anyway the ‘Misses’ wanted the names of those were at war with, she paid handsomely for them I was even given my own ‘other name’. Whiskers they called me. When we began our search for Valiant Shield we the never found half of them. For the records it is assumed that they had fled our lands, ... I doubt it!
Whatever power that was used to slay Crownsilver of great evil, it held him in the in-between place, neither in the realm of the dead nor the realm of the living. He was to wander the citadel in limbo, a ghost. When those who were responsible or his death were brought to justice it seemed as if his spirit was free. Yet when they brought Justin back he was not the same man, he was different, he was tainted. I believe whatever tainted Cross had now tainted the Captain. Those of the Valiant Shield who did not disown their leader Beren or fled from the land were slaughtered.
It was not long after the war when my wife showed up out of the blue. After so many years she had finally found me, I guess that I had been like a needle in a haystack before but during the war I had made a reputation for myself. The girl still loved me, that much was clear. The only comely wench that got my rocks off and scared the absolute seven shades of crap out of me. She had a wicked left hook and I reckoned she had a little devil in her, she was a devil in the sack for sure. Then came my curse, right on time.
...I still visit her grave from time to time. I shipped off on my first tour of Chult the day after.
I fecking hated Chult, too fecking hot, the people were too feckin stupid and the wildlife... well feck me frogmen that the locals call Bullywugs! I was glad to get back on home turf, and reacquaint myself with old routine. Though when I returned there were a lot of new Fist faces, and many faces that I may never see again. I wonder whatever happened to Corporal Dredd, she was my type of wench, Sergeant Ironfaar reminds me a lot of her. Those two would really get on well together. I was glad to see that the Ironfaar finally found a replacement my old position, Grunga is a good woman and she maintains a strong connection enforcing that old pact. The only thing I have against the girl is her method of aiding injuries, once you experience it you can’t un-experience it as I’ve said before. It was about time we got a Doc in the Company, though I think Corporal Mortimer has been lacking on his duties recently.
Though when I did return it was apparent that the fresh meat was as soft as s’ite. It was up to Colours Celtis and myself, both of us veterans of Chult, to whip these fannies into shape. The populace had had it too easy for too long, the old school teaching hit them hard which I feel lead to the incident with the Red Field. Obviously, the new command structure has not seen eye to eye with the new command of the thieves guild and our old way are now dead. With the cleansing of the docks it was inevitable that something would lash back. That trouble happened to be the Red Field, full of criminal scum bags. That was quickly sorted without bloodshed, we had learnt our lesson with Cross and his bunch of arse bandits.
Speaking of arse bandits, we still have that git Counsellor Wren in our midst. Fecking foreigner trying to change the way we do things here, what the hell do we need a counsellor for? If we are hiring soft fannies that need to go have a cry to some wet nosed toff then I must not have been doing my job well enough! Though the guy is now a war hero and has seen the ugly side of what we do, he has earned his place there is no doubt with the men. My investigation was dropped on him, he was willing to let a criminal guilty of impersonation go free, I fecking had him and Captain Guthrun let him off. He even got his own way an got the damn guilty convict off the charges, though that was shorted lived, not more than a week later, that Kaden numpty over stepped his bounds again and got banished. I can smell bad apples a mile away, who are these bell ends that question my judgement when I have been doing this job for years?
Whatever I had been doing my efforts were noticed by the Commander who made me the Colours. I was now responsible for carrying the Dukes colours to battle. Not too many of the noble peers were happy at that promotion, a dwarf from the ranks entrusted with the colours, only in second company would that happen. The pounces in first company would rather polish their armour and (person) fight than do some real Flaming Fist duty’s, bunch of fairies.
Then came my second tour of Chult, as if the first wasn’t bad enough.
Since my recent return the curse has made its appearance once again. In the last week we have lost the Commander, my friend. I have a written eulogy yet unread, and the sad thing is it may never be read. Not content with taking the Commanders life the fates of the curse have seen fit to take my protégé as well. Lightbringer was an empty head to be sure, he only got a second chance because I stuck my neck out for him. I took him under my wing and trained him, eventually he became a useful trooper but it was all in vein. His association with the Weave and whatever his master there did, confused the idiot. He thought it was acceptable to call upon dark arts, a spell of necromancy, something to use as a last resort. I do not weep for him, he has disgraced me.
The situation at hand now has advanced me in rank once again. Captain, a dwarf captain. I thought my peers were angry at Colours, that’s nothing next to the highest rank a non noble can achieve. I will make many enemies now I am certain.
I now sit in this stone clad fortress, I write what I have done over the years so that there is something of my deeds on paper, something that can be read and remembered. There will be trouble ahead.
Shall I tell you about my life.
-
Rocshanks
- Posts: 383
- Joined: Thu May 28, 2009 7:20 am
- Location: Eugene, Oregon
-
Rocshanks
- Posts: 383
- Joined: Thu May 28, 2009 7:20 am
- Location: Eugene, Oregon
Rocshank's Journal
After some deliberation and forethought, Shanks sits long into the night through to the small hours of the waking dawn. Copying his lengthy report history to a journal that he now carries arround with him. A testament to his past.
5th Highsun, 1344
While out by the bridge an individual wearing robes of a red wizard was stopped by nearby citizens. With no prove other than that of a man in red robes I recommended the individual change his attire or be prepared for trouble. With a crowd gathered I did not see fit to have this man de-hooded or de-robed to prove the suspicions of the gathered crowd. Also a red wizard, I thought, would not be so foolish to wear red wizard garments in full view.
Later it turns out that a young lady by the name of Caskia sought after this individual and identified them as a red wizard. The gumption of that git to wear the full red wizard robes past me makes me feel that I should readdress my attentiveness to duty. I am glad of this girl who took it upon herself to kill this wizard, uphold the law and bring me the head as proof. Indeed it was a red wizard.
However, on informing me and rejecting the reward like an honest, noble citizen of the law, a nearby trouble making Orc cried out murderer and accused her this caused a disturbance. The disturbance was ended peacefully and those that accused her where advised to apologize to her for the accusation after I had resolved the matter.
Furthermore, Glyd,yah a reporter was part of the crowd and now as I watch her she writes an article on her perspective. No doubt she will make the Fist look incompetent. I provided her with my name and rank and nothing more when she questioned.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
19th Highsun, 1344
Encountered an odd type of elf the other day. Heavy smoker and like myself speaks with an accent. What troubled me was his accent, I don't know if it was a piss take of my own accent or if he does indeed sound and act like a dwarf.
Engaging in idle conversation he asked some rather probing questions, such as how often the bridge was guarded, is it often posted with one lone guard, if there were any patrol out that I may know of. That type of thing. I feed him false information on each question and before he left on his way into town he donated 65 gold coins and 1 cigarillo.
My gut doesn't feel right about that lad. Probing for information then offering a solider of the Fist gifts. I will keep an eye on this one he may be up to something.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
20th Highsun, 1344
Today I was informed by Candle keep of an incident that had occurred a couple of hours ago. An unknown man was being escorted to Candle Keep by their guards for changing into a Devil along the road and attacking the locals. During this escort to Candle Keep the accused man was set upon by a Sun elf known as Gilandri'lith Asunluana who killed her target. The Candle Keep guards proceeded to pursue her and eliminate her.
Upon my daily patrol I was called upon to by Candle Keep and inform of this and that I could find the bodies down the path. Why the Guards didn't take the bodies into their city I have no idea? While searching for these bodies I found nothing and assume that they have been devoured by the roaming ogres or have escaped through unknown means.
I did, however, encounter a tall human dress in a dark robe and a black hood. As I approached him for questioning he became verbally hostile and demanded I go away. Fool, doesn't he know that we dwarfs are the most stubborn of all races. Standing firm I question him on weather he saw two bodies and he lied right in my face, saying that the bodies where in the forest near by.
Further verbal abuse was exchanged between us and I demanded the individuals name. Surprisingly he cooperated and told me his name was John Smith. I let him off with a warning.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
19th Leaffall, 1344
While on guard at the bridge I heard a commotion from behind me at Jorns farm. As I approached the end of the bridge I saw several Drow and allies surrounded by a group of citizens. With kill on sight orders I proceeded to bury three of the scum before I made a tactical with drawl to the city for Fist reinforcements.
When I returned to the battle ground it was clear that the raid was thwarted by the good citizens of Baldurs. We also managed to capture two of the gits that we dragged to the cells to torture.
The male Drow was a tough cookie to crack, after being heavily persuaded and with the aid of Myhuns tricks we managed to get some information out of the scum.
Apparently, they have declared war on the Banites because the cult has began to preach in there home and have converted many Drow. He also mentioned that they were aided by a tiefling witch who had the capability to portal them to the surface. Obviously, the tiefling doesn't have great control over this magic as they where meant to portal to the Banite lair.
On revealing this information we had no use for the Drow and took him to the end of the bridge to be hung. Unfortunately, another portal opened and many demons spilled out. I managed to take down 4, including the Drow who was to be hung but was separated from the rest of the Fist on the Bridge. I eventually staggered back to the closest temple covered in blood and barely alive, I would have died if not for the kindness of a wondering citizen who bandaged my wounds.
We, however, still have the mistress locked in our cells. Suggest we up security. She my be important.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
16th The Rotting 1344
Today has been an interesting day. It has been years since I last saw their kind but today, plain as day, I came across one of those grey skinned bastard orcs. The brute was unarmed and worn no armour, I quick persuasion of my axe had him leave the city rather quickly. But when theres one there will be others, I had better make sure they know there place. Preferably in a shallow grave.
While on patrol with Captain Crownsilver towards the town of Beregost we encountered Officer Cross leaving the vicinity. The Captain proceeded to interrogated the officer on several issues of conduct and insubordination when a noisy citizen began to listen into the conversation.
After being order to leave the citizen insulted the Captain. This unfortunate escalation of events lead me into a chase after the citizen and myself thumping him with the hilt of my axe in order for him to return to the Captain to apologize. After some persuasion the citizen realise the error of his ways and went along his merry way.
I then further escorted Officer Cross back to the city under orders from Captain Crownsilver. Not long after we took our post at the bridge did another incident occur. A female roughly my hight was attempting to leave the city under the mask of a helm. I stopped her and ordered to identify herself. She refused so I drew my axe and gave her a second chance, she began to stall and before I knew it a shadowy figure appeared from the bushes behind her. This lead to battle and I cut down the law breaker and tossed the body over the bridge.
Officer Cross proceeded to chase the other assailant screaming Drow. This rookie is obsessed with Drow! and dispatched her. On returning he informed me he caught a halfdrow. I give him the order to dispose of the corpse and dump it into the river.
I will enjoy my bunk tonight, after a stiff ale a good sleep will be my worth while reward.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
1st The Drawing Down, 1344
On the patrol route I encountered currently suspended Officer Beren Cross, who was currently assisted by his band of men in a identifiable silver and blue uniform. I was approached by one of them, an elf, who asked if the Flaming Fist had restarted patrols. I informed him patrols had never stopped which was commented on another of his men, a ginger bearded human, with an obscenity. I continued to inform him that the Fist only make patrols when there are two or more present to undertake the duty. I also informed him that he was unable to see my back up, which prompted them to cast magical wards in order to spot my accomplice. We carried on with our patrol before they could finish casting there wards.
On an additional note we may have an interested party wanting to join the ranks. He goes by the name Sonny and I recommend him highly. He is highly adapt in the art of stealth and could be a valuable asset. He, however, is a horned cursed blood.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
9th The Drawing Down, 1344
Been a busy night. Attained 5000 coffers from Myhun to give little Tuk a bath. Order where overturned by Captain Crownsilver, who ordered Tuk to be thrown out of the way. Myhun was not please with this outcome and has threatened me with bringing my wife to Baldurs. I seriously hope he was bluffing!
Stopped a hooded individual entering the city, after he tried to walk away from the situation he was caught and identified. Appear this was the second time he tried it and is purposely ignoring the law. Captain Crownsilver allowed him to go free. The guards have now been alerted to kill all hooded and armed individuals that enter the city.
Was approached by a woman in red who was armed and hooded. Demanded that she disarm and derobe. She informed me that the Captain had attacked her without reason. She began to cause a scene so I arrested her. She ran off and cast some arcane mumbo jumbo on herself. Tuk seemed to know her, and tried to vouch for her. I placed a bounty on her head, hopefully some citizen will drag her in.
Stopped a second woman from entering wearing red. This time with reason and gave her the option to walk away. She did not like the thought and due to her beliefs she walked away.
An armed orc charged past me on the bridge, I chased after the brute and beat him up on the road. Left him there bruised and gave him something to think about.
The numpties have escaped from there cells I think!
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
16th, The Drawing Down, 1344
Since the death of Crownsilver I haven't had the chance to get back onto regular duty, I barely get the chance to leave the HQ, there is so many work to do. Questioning of the prisoners has only proved tiresome and it appears that Beren has kept his troops in specified groups. Many of his men claimed not to know of other individuals within the organisation. For a time, long before this war even began, I have been keeping tabs on all these 'Holy Zealot Orders'. I know who in this order knows who, how could you not when they conducted meetings right by the gipsy camp in front of us guards at Wyrms Crossing. Beren is a moron of the highest order in that respect.
Releasing Ceadis, this arrogant prick, because he has diplomatic immunity has only angered me. Claims he has nothing to do with this, knows nothing of it and is disheartened at Cross' actions. I say he is only saving his own skin like a coward that he is. As for the others that have been released on orders they are good men and women, they have shown some trace of honour for there kind. It's a rare thing to see in these troubling times.
Why did Myhun release the two elf's, neither of which were Berens soldiers, known to be involved in this attack? What has he to gain in all of this? One thing is to be sure, he won't be leading the wardens much longer once the Duke gets a hold of him. I can only hope this doesn't cause any tensions, Myhun did bring in the traitor and am aware of the awesome magical might of this mage. I would hate to be ordered against the man, he has become a friend.
Reading over the reports of Officer Aseph & Corporal Dredd it appears there are sightings that Sir Justin Crownsilver is haunting the land. I would have scoffed at this ridiculous notion, and I did when a citizen came to report it. I humoured her and took a record of what see had seen. It wasn't until she spoke about why the spirit couldn't rest that swayed my suspicion, she told me that the spirit couldn't rest until justice had been served to these four, and a quote
“A monk, a mislead female elf, an angered male elf and the fallen”
These are descriptions, poor ones at best, of the four murderers that where seen that day. There was no mention of the unseen assailants that attacked with bows and magic assaults from the shadows of the surrounding crowd. It disgusts me that out of all those who witnessed this only a handful of people have come forward to testify what they had witness this day.
My suspicion leads me to believe that someone from this crowd, perhaps a master of shadow puppets or a necromancer or some such, has created an image of our fallen leader and is manipulating the public. To what end I have no idea, when I get a moment I will go investigate these 'sightings' for myself.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
22nd, The Drawing Down, 1344
My investigations into the reported sightings of the spirit of Captain Crownsilver have, unfortunately, proved fruitful. I began with questioning the Priest of Helm about the corpse, to determine if we were dealing with a necromancer. I was informed that the corpse had not been removed from the temple and that resided in a sarcophagus at the rear of the church. I proceeded to check on the corpse to ensure that it was indeed still there. Before I had reached the body I encountered the spirit face to face.
My experience of this was short lived as I made a hastily advance for the nearest exit. I don't see ghosts everyday of the week, especially not those of fallen brothers so understandably this hasn't been the most pleasant of encounters. I now seek council with a spirit shaman, I have many questions that I need answered.
On an unrelated issue, after reading Officer Newnham's report on an undead army. I myself have been informed by a group of elves that there is a threat on our northern boarders. I do not trust these reports as nothing substantial has been put forward as evidence, furthermore the elves reporting this are close friends of the two involved with the death of the Captain. I believe that this is an attempt by the elven council to misdirect us away from our current sights on the Valiant Heart. I will command Corporal Dredd to ensure that our officers are not mislead by these interfering elves, as with the disobedient traitor Cross, any Officer of the Fist found to be mislead and aiding these renegade elves will have there pay docked and given clean up duty for a week.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
26th, The Drawing Down, 1344
With rumours spreading like wild fire amongst the public about an undead army I decided to deputise a gathering of law abiding citizens and travel north into the Fields of the Dead. Early into the scouting we encountered a scattered amount of skeleton warriors, disorganised and wondering. This was soon to change the further we travelled deeper into the fields. Eventually we were being attacked on all sides by organised war bands of skeleton troops. I gave the order for a tactial withdrawal, and returned to the gate with all parties accounted for. We will need to further investigate this situation.
Since our fellow sergeant Borton retired there have been no standard patrols of the Fields of the Dead. I fear that due to out lack of presence in this area the numbers of the undead have increased. I plan to take over from Bortons patrol route, present road wardens will accompany me and if need be more citizens will be deputised for make shift scouting parties.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
2nd, Deepwinter, 1345
My current orders are to seek out the remains of the Valiant Heart and recruit them into the ranks. Refusal is not an option if they wish for a full pardon. On a personal note, my gut instinct tells me more holy men in the ranks is a bad idea.
On a patrol south I was informed of a Drow presence in the vicinity, I set up a guard position just south of Beregost and fortunately encountered the pair. It took the male all of his strength from his god to budge me from my position and make a full retreat to Beregost temple for aid. Here I found Officer Redford and after the priests had healed my wounds we set off to were I last encountered the Drow and set up a guard post. There were no further encounters. I suspect they fled south to Amn, it's there problem now.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
15th, Deepwinter, 1345
So far all attempts to find the remaining troops of the Valiant Heart have proved to be fruitless, it is as if they have all scattered into the four winds. I will continue my search on a passing scale but it seems I will be unable to round up all these troops before Beren is put to death. however, regarding recruitment, it appears from the extra paper worked on file that we have a new recruit, an officer Grum Silveraxe. Obviously, from the manner in which he writes he is an uneducated kin. I may have to arrange writing classes for the recruits with one of our scholars.
Now on to a worrying concern, Grey Orc numbers are on the increase and recently while in discussion with the public it appears that there is rumors of a tribe. From the alleged statements the orcs numbers are being kept in control by the elven council. Furthermore, this tribe has set up on Ironfaar/Fist alliance territory. As mush as I despise these creatures it seems that the situation is being dealt with by the public accordingly. All Road Wardens are, however, to be on alert when on patrol and report on all hostile activities as usual. If this tribe becomes a potential threat, we will be there to crush them.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
17th, Deepwinter, 1345
Today I eat humble pie as this report comes from an eye witness due to my failure. I remember nothing of these events but as I was informed that I lost my head it does not surprise me. The last thing I do remember was investigating further into the Orc blight that we have. It is no secret that I hate these creatures and I admit I wanted to bloody my axe.
Anyway from the eye witness report it seems I encountered two large orcs along the Trade way, just as I met them a woman came running down the road screaming Drow. Quickly a battle broke out and a Drow stepped out of the darkness and killed the woman. I am told I held out for sometime against both orcs and two Drow attacking from the shadows. I died doing my duty.
One of the orcs then proceeded to cut off my head... Feckin Orc bastard! However, this does bring up a worrying aspect. We are well aware that Orcs and Drow have fought side by side before and this appears to be no different. This issue may be a bigger threat than I had first suspected.
I ship out to Chult in a week, they will have to deal with this issue in my absence.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
16th, Summertide, 1345
It is good to be home, and let it be stated that I feckin hate Chult. The weather is too hot, the people are too feckin stupid and the wildlife... well feck me frogmen that the locals call Bullywugs! I'm glad to be back on home turf, and reacquaint myself with old routine.
Met the Ironfarr ambassador, my replacement, a fine comely dwarven wench. Good to see more dwarven folk in the ranks, especially the lesser sex. Seems the Ironfarr have gone from strength to strength in my absence, I wonder if any of the founders are still alive? Anyway it's good to know the alliance is still strong between us, loyal friends are hard to come by these days.
Went out on patrol today with one of the greenhorns, my first patrol since I got back. Kids name was Ethan or Eltan or some such human name. Overly trusting type, almost told me his entire life story on the patrol, trained by dwarfs and a helmite from the north. Just need to ready him for the dirt with the rest so he's prepared for the ugy side of the job, he should be a fine addition.
The patrol was quiet except for the encountered a group of elves over a corpse south of Beregost. Lucky that one of them knew the recruit otherwise they would have all been enjoying our jailors special in a 10 by 10 cell on murder charges.
Side note: I've been gone too long, last I saw Nashkel it was a burnt out village. Good to know that my donation helped out with that, wonder if I can get my coin back now that they are up and running. Need to speak with Myhrun about it.
Side note: My current attire is no longer uniform with the rest of the Fist. I will need to make arrangements with the quartermaster.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
23rd, Summertide, 1345
These new recruits are soft as Shïte and stupid as orcs, I will need to kick them into shape. Today recruit Lightbringer requested a road patrol, I ordered Corporal Grunga to take the recruit and scout North in the dead lands. Recruit Lightbringer continued to talk to citizens on the bridge as if it were a tea party. Corporal Grunga failed to assert her authority over recruit Lightbringer and march the squad north.
Recruit Fetters arrived and Recruit Lightbringer took it upon himself to take Recruit Fetters on a patrol south along the trade route. Eventually the Corporal went to retrieve both recruits. I was informed by the Corporal that Recruit Fetters got herself lost and that she would not be experienced enough to scout the northern lands. This confused me as I did not give any orders for Recruit Fetters to join the squad.
Recruit Lightbringer has been ordered to return to Head Quarters and will spend the weekend on Bridge and city duty for disobeying orders. If he is seen away from his post while in uniform he will be hanged as a traitor. WE WILL NOT HAVE ANOTHER BEREN CROSS INCIDENT!
Corporal Grunga has been given two weeks Latrine Duties for disagreeing with me. If she continues to fail to lead her subordinates there will be further consequences.
Recruit Fetters has been left to the wilds for following another recruits orders and not reporting to the senior solider present. If she returns alive she will have learnt a life lesson.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
28th, Summertide, 1345
Today Apprentice Lightbringer abandoned his post and rushed south with some urgency. I quickly chased after him and reprimanded him by the pathway to the wood of Sharp Teeth. He argued with me claiming that he had be given information from his informants about an Orc war band and that it was written the the "military code", his words, that all Fist should respond to emergency situations.
Telling the superior who has currently rewritten the Flaming Fist manual about what is in the manual, when it is not, is not a bright idea. However, it seemed that his informants were correct and there was a war band of Orcs gathering in the woods. I took control of the situation and had the small gathering of people, that had formed around us, deputized.
An echo of drums bellowed from deep within the woods, an all too familiar sound of a war chant. With the deputized band of troops with ventured in to the forest and battled are way through orc scouting parties. This brought us to the mouth of there lair, where they attacked us with goblin sappers and Ogrillon. Quickly dispatched, I sent in a scouting party escorted by Apprentice Lightbringer and surveyed the cave entrance for locations to plant explosives.
Sounds of heavy battle and screams came from within the cave, so I ordered in the rear guard to advance and support the scouting party. It came to light that the orc war band was being lead by a demon force which were entering our plane through some sort of portal. Battle raged on deep into the cave and many lost there lives, I myself fell with heavy wounds. It was Apprentice Lightbringer that pulled me out of the fray and recovered me from my wounds.
Seeing that this was not going well, I gave orders to Lightbringer to set the explosives and light the fuse. In full retreat, all but a few made it out of the caverns before the explosives detonated.
I have a feeling this is not the last of it and our efforts will only hold them for so long. My gut also tells me that this has happened before and I plan to search the records for similar occurrences.
Apprentice Lightbringer requested that he should be promoted in the field of battle for his courage and prowess. For failing to follow the chain of command I denied his request. His actions were misplaced and I should have stripped him of his uniform , however, he did save my life so I have given him a good thump in the face for it and put him back in the ranks.
Good solider making bad judgement calls. I have straightened him out so lets hope he take heed in my words ...or I will personally hang him myself.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
5th, Highsun, 1345
Another quiet day of doing the rounds, I have a feeling that some of the populace are avoiding me... Good. However, I did get a visit from Eric today, boy wanted back into the Flaming Fist, has gone to the Duke and asked to be taken back. The Duke being the card that he is said he could come back with four votes from senior Fist troops. He told me Corporal Grunga turned him down out right and Magister Myhrun refused to tell him how he'd vote.
I said I'd gave him a yes on two conditions, one that he leave the Weave if he managed to get another three votes and secondly that he would train directly under me. I have some tests and challenges to put him through to try his loyalties, I wonder how he will take to arresting or killing his friends?
My worries are that Eric is too friendly at times and needs some piss and vinegar in his blood. I will be ensuring that his peers give him a hard time if he comes back. If he's to become a Fist his attitude will have to change.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
Additional:
Today didn't end so quietly, I was disturbed by a crowd on the bridge that were calling for the arrest of an elf who was attacking people along the trade way. Before I could get a description, the culprit fled past me and out of the City. I pursued the individual but lost him at Lionsway. Here I came across a man from the crowd who also chased this elf, went by the name of Guilo. I deputized him as he got a better look at the elf and had been one of the victims the elf attacked.
Our searches lead us to the boarder were my jurisdiction ended, however, using our wits "lord" Guilo hired me for 10 gold pieces as an escort and bodyguard to deal with his business which just so happened to be a man hunt of this elf. Unfortunately, our searching proved fruitless, we assume that either he died in the Cloudpeak blizzard or from the giant's that roam the mountains.
Side note: It's been over a century since I last saw my homeland. The peaks no longer look familiar to me.
10th, Highsun, 1345
An old armsman is now back from Chult it would appear. The woman seems very sure of herself, calling herself an arms "woman" and stating that her promotion is just around the corner with claims that her reports to Commander Crownsilver would grant her such. Well those reports can sit on his desk until he returns from Amn. If she isn't prepared to file them through the proper channels, then her reports and sit on his desk and gather dust. As for arms woman, were do these second class wenches get off? The Corporal and myself drilled it into her that the titles generic, pretty sure she got that straight.
I have another problem with her, I saw the same elf, that myself and apprentice "toilet scrubber" had arrested before, being taken to the cells. Later the same elf walked passed me out of the gate and I was informed that our armsman had taken the advice of an apprentice, currently on latrine duty, and gave the elf a 1000 gold fine. This is a lesser sentence than the two days jail time we previously gave him! I must be going senile! I was pretty sure repeat offenders take a harsher sentence and also; when do Armsmen ask apprentices for advice?
I also met our new addition sent by the council of four. Odd that we received no formal information on him, and I made a fool of myself when I met him. A councillor for the troops, someone to tell there troubles to. If we are hiring soft fannies that need to go have a cry to some wet nosed toff then I must not being doing my job well enough! All these men need after a hard day is good stiff drink and peaceful sleep.
That is why, today I went and collected some of Myhrun and Rocshanks secret stashed ale from CandleKeep. Brewed by me in the age old traditional dwarven way and enhanced magically by Myhrun to put hair on your chest. Not for women, unless they want to start shaving their cleavage.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
15th, Highsun, 1345
I had planned to attend the theatre presentation last night as a guest, but, to my pleasant surprise I was security at the event. Some of the troops are surprised at this, I may be a hard ass but I do appreciate the arts. When the Commander assigned the task of security to the Corporal and myself I had only expected minimal guard duty. That was until four guards where posted to the entrance of the White Mask and a further four elite armsmen were assigned within the establishment.
Such a high level of security could only mean that we were to be honoured by distinguished quests. Little did I expect Duke Belt and Duchess Liia Jannath to attend. The event it's self went well but there had to be several... interruptions. Like the audacity of Eric Lightbringer during the occasion to request an audience with the Duke an Duchess as they enjoyed the show. He was very very lucky he was merely denied and not reprimanded for his actions.
Later that night the Commander had given me the great honour as personal guard to both the Duke and Duchess as he joined in with the dancing. It would have gone pleasantly if there had not have been a troublemaker disturbing the Duchesses entertainment of dancing. A quiet word in his ear and he soon left. If only every incident went like this, I didn't even need to raise my voice.
As for the plot of the play, I had lost all track of what was happening but I did pick up on some bits and pieces of it. What wild fantasies these performers have, a rightful trial for a Red Wizard and the way they spoke of a Flaming Fist Captain. Such things do not happen in the real world without dire consequences.
After the performance I was again honoured with the duty of escorting the Duchess back to the Palace. I will point out that this new man, the one that calls himself an Ear is worrying my troops. Even the security officer Mehtar had to question me on his presence in the White Mask and why he was involved in security. This foreigners methods are unusual, he is meant to be approachable yet men do not trust him, he creeps them out and it affects there capability to do the job when he is around.
My gut tells me there is something off about him and I have a hunch that he is here for another purpose.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
17th, Highsun, 1345
The following is correspondence between Myself and our nterfering counsellor.
Sergeant,
After spending some time with the troops it is beginning to occur that they do not care for my presence. This is always the way of things to an outsider, however it is becoming obvious to me that I am causing more harm then good when it comes to the efficiency of some of the Fist when performing their duties. As the mandate for my overall duty is to do nothing to interfere with the purpose of the Flaming fist, I feel by my very presence it is beginning to be difficult. As simply quitting and revoking my vow and word is not an option, I ask you for advice how to do my job but yet not interfere with the normal goings on. If my presence detracts from the efficiency of the unit it will serve no purpose.
The Ear.
Counsellor Wren
I can only assume you have read or been informed of my report concerning your presence affecting the men's behaviour. Otherwise I do not believe for one moment I would have received 'this' letter from yourself.
You ask me for advice on 'your' job, a job I believe has little purpose within the Fist. All right I will give you the advice you seek. If you want the respect of the troops you will have to earn it in the same way they did. Don the uniform as they do, face the same difficulties that they do everyday, walk a hundred miles in there shoes.
We are warriors, once you understand us, once you understand the mentality of this family, you will be one of us. Until then this will not be easy for you.
Sgt Rocshanks.
Sergeant I have not received any such report, but it does not surprise me that it exists. The focus and reason for said message was due to the fact that a number of times while on patrol, or on guard a soldier will spend time watching me as opposed to thier surrounding which any person can quicckly deduce defeats the purpose and detracts from the Fist themselves.
My Mandate by the Duke is Clear I am not to wear the uniform, I am not to enforce the law but to assist and I pull guard duty when others do so and I am present for this if a trooper wishes to avail themselves to my prupose that is up to them. As for it being 'easy' you misunderstand me. TO be perfectly blunt to come sniveling to you because it is hard is not me nor will it ever be, to come to ask you a question to better help the efficency of the unit and advice, that is indeed what it is for.
There is no magic sling bullet that will solve all our ills and suddenly make them trust me. They will trust me or they will not in their time. Until then I acceept no pay for I feel if I am not 'earning' my keep by doing my job I will not accept it. You did not previously know this since I didn't feel it necessary to advertise the fact.
To revisit my orginal question, how can I assist in the solution and stop being part of the problem?
Counsellor Wren
Counsellor
So you're getting paid for this crap! Well as long at you're not accepting any payment I can sleep better at night knowing no coin is being wasted. Asking me for advice and snivelling to me because it's Too Hard are one and the same thing you snivelling foreign dog. I expect nothing less from someone who comes from a country that has a counsellor in there armed force. What kind of soft ass sparkle fairies do you employee in that army! No matter, I don't care.
Ever hear of the saying "there is no smoke without fire?" If the men are watching you, they don't trust you, and if they don't trust you, I suspect you. So to revisit your question on how to solve the problem, well if I find proof that you're a spy your mandate won't be worth snot and you can spend the rest of your days a cell.
Problem solved!
Sgt Rocshanks
Let it be known I am now investigating our new 'friend' and ordering the troops to keep a third eye on him. Suspect this man at all times, I smell a turd in the punch bowl.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
21st, Highsun, 1345
So the 'second chancer' has come back to us. I do believe he is well versed in my orders and I expect his first report very soon. He is obviously brown nosing me and being very careful, which is affecting his training. Like the other armsmen I want Lightbringer to be useful, not just capable. This is way I have given Corporal Ironfaar orders to run Apprentice Lightbringer through the ropes, the hard way. This will either make or break the apprentice, if the Corporals methods work I will put forward recommendation for promotion.
I have filed a request to the quartermaster for Lightbringer to be equipped with Apprentice foot solider uniform. It seems the Quartermaster was taking the piss and gave him high a high ranking Archers tunic. I have also informed Lightbringer that once I feel he is ready and have promoted him to Armsman, that he should speak with the quartermaster again and get the standard dress.
My investigation on Wren continue, I have been speaking with the people who know or have met with him. It does form an interesting perspective about the individual. Nothing further to report.
With the disappearance of several of the recruits I have began a recruitment drive. I am now attempting to hunt down members of the Red Field that abandoned the mercenary group that was exiled. I have only found one so far, and it turned out he was an orc! So I didn't bother with it, no matter how desperate we get for men I will never offer an orc a position within the ranks.
Now as for elves, well I recorded an elven written notice on the tavern on the Elfsong it read as follows:
To any of the People of Doron Amar who are looking for a way to serve their community while honing their own abilities:
A series of training patrols, to be supervised by Amalie and Asmund Breyer, will be departing in the forthcoming days. If you are willing and able to contribute, please sign your name below, along with a brief statement of what you anticipate your role would be in such a venture.
I will be contacting them shortly to set them straight.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
24th, Highsun, 1345
Sergeant Rockshanks
By order of Colonel Sir Justin Crownsilver.
You are to investigate all persons claiming to have apprehended "The Taddler", persons found to be falsely claiming this bounty to be put to death without delay and written report to be made to the Castle.
You are given authority to pursue this matter however you shall see fit.
You are to report upon your findings and the nature of this matter as a whole at such time as you feel you may brief Sir Justin or myself regarding the likelihood this matter will generate further disorder.
Captain Guthrun
25th, Highsun, 1345
Captain Guthrun
To further pursue this matter I must have knowledge of this Kaden individual. Is he of noble birth with the authority to place such a bounty? Is he a man of high influence able to attain the right to set this bounty? or is he connected and if so has someone provided him with this authority?
If he has no standing and is just another numpty I can quiet quickly put a nail in this coffin.
Sergeant Rocshanks
25th, Highsun, 1345
Sergeant Rockshanks.
I present for your consumption the report of investigator Wren, please liaise with Colour Sergeant Celtis and Sir Justin. I have flagged this for his attention and expect orders shortly.
27th, Highsun, 1345
For the eyes of Colonel Crownsilver ONLY.
It has been a confusing week, my orders were quite clear. Put to death anyone claiming the bounty on the Taddler and enforce the law as I saw fit. It has not gone this way, Captain Guthrun saw fit to enforce his authority over these orders.
His first order was to replace the punishment of death with the following:
All persons found to be falsely accusing another of being "The Taddler" shall henceforth have their tongue struck with a brand and the first finger of their right hand removed at the knuckle.
His second order is as follows:
All investigative works or matters pertaining to the said individual "Kaden" whom, being associated with certain notices is alleged to have been guilty by proxy of crimes against the Duke, are hereby suspended indefinitely.
We know for a fact Kaden took the law into his own hands and placed a bounty on a nameless individual. Therefore he is guilty of impersonation of an official and should be charged with such. Additionally for the damaged he has caused he was to be held accountable for the murders. Punishment for murder is death, however, I saw fit to be merciful and fine Kaden the exact amount that he had placed on his bounty.
These orders now prevent him from being reprimanded, which lead me to believe that Captain Guthrun is a pussy and is being manipulated.
His latest orders have no understanding to them.
Additionally, my investigations on Wren lead me to arresting him for Disruption of Official Business and act to accept Bribary. He advised command to let the paladin Kaden go free without charges being pressed and then wanted the Fist to climb into bed with him in order to get his money. I had placed him under house arrest for being a traitor that he is but it seems he has manipulated those in higher command and has my orders over thrown.
As I said before I believe the Captain motives to be manipulated and I further request his actions to be internally investigated. I think the counsellor may be the source of this manipulation.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
31st, Highsun, 1345
Current standing orders are to drop all investigations on counsellor Wren, he's now a damn war hero after standing tall against a Drow raid. I don't like the man but credit were credit is due after his actions. This leads me to my last report were I became over zealous with accusations, which I now retract and offer my apologises for. This was fuelled by my temper at allowing Kaden to go free of any accountability for his actions. My gut feeling told me Kaden was a bad apple and sure enough he has now been banished.
Additionally for my over zealous actions I have been cut any wages for a month and I am now on double guard shifts. Well feck it, I'll reacquaint myself with the troops, they'll love that. Especially now that today we had one hell of a recruitment drive. Three Initiates, possibly four and a Corporal. It's good to have a trained doc on the team, Corporal Ironfaars method of patching up our wounded is..... well if you have experienced it you can't "unexperience" it!
As his first command I have given 30'000 gold coins and ordered him to equip himself with whatever he needs to get started. I informed him that Candlekeep and Beregost could provide him with items not available in the citadel. Initiates Eburay and Garhom are to escort him safely to these destinations.
Credit to our resident empty head, Initiate Lightbringer, he is responsible for at least three of the new men. Possibly a forth if the lass joins us as well. His attitude to the populace has paid off today, we just need him to focus his loyalty more and find a way to get him to talk a lot less.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
7th, The Fading, 1345
Case: Assassination of Sir Jonas Rokranon.
To be dealt with quietly, all troops are ordered not to speak of this openly under penatly of flogging. Investigator Wren is currently chasing up Athor Siger, the man who saved Sir Rokranon, for further information. Will await the investigators report on him.
Initiates Eburay and Moonbeam have been ordered to bring in Siomir & Rith'alaria for questioning. Sir Jonas gave us these names and we suspect they are involved with the accusations against suspected assassin Lippi. Additionally, Initiate Moonbeam being a citizen of the Doron Amar elven community has informed me that it is only a few within the community that accuse the halfling of this crime.
Side Note: Initiate Eburay has been given two weeks latrine duty for speaking to me as if we were of equal rank.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Case: Undead Disturbance
During a diner, discussing the political situation, we were intruded upon and informed of a skeletal dragon creature attacking the bridge. On hearing this I made haste to the front-line bearing the colours; rallying the men to stand the line and not let one inch of ground to the creature. After the death of many of our troops we eventually slain the abomination and I took it's skull as a Fist trophy. The skull can now be seen brandished on the walls of the troops bunk, to inspire the men and remind them of the lose we suffered that night.
I must admit that I now see The Ear in a different light, he has tasted the bitter that we Fist do every day. It is apparent now on his demeanour, I no longer distrust this man, but I do not have to like him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Case: Deserter
Watchman Thadrin has been lock up for desertion. I had assumed that he had been assigned to Chult as I had not seen him since I was a watchman myself. Under Commander Crownsilvers order he was never re-assigned to off shore detail. What has me puzzled is that if he did desert so long ago, why would he turn up out of the blue on our doorstep and report for duty? Odd human behaviour.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
5th Highsun, 1344
While out by the bridge an individual wearing robes of a red wizard was stopped by nearby citizens. With no prove other than that of a man in red robes I recommended the individual change his attire or be prepared for trouble. With a crowd gathered I did not see fit to have this man de-hooded or de-robed to prove the suspicions of the gathered crowd. Also a red wizard, I thought, would not be so foolish to wear red wizard garments in full view.
Later it turns out that a young lady by the name of Caskia sought after this individual and identified them as a red wizard. The gumption of that git to wear the full red wizard robes past me makes me feel that I should readdress my attentiveness to duty. I am glad of this girl who took it upon herself to kill this wizard, uphold the law and bring me the head as proof. Indeed it was a red wizard.
However, on informing me and rejecting the reward like an honest, noble citizen of the law, a nearby trouble making Orc cried out murderer and accused her this caused a disturbance. The disturbance was ended peacefully and those that accused her where advised to apologize to her for the accusation after I had resolved the matter.
Furthermore, Glyd,yah a reporter was part of the crowd and now as I watch her she writes an article on her perspective. No doubt she will make the Fist look incompetent. I provided her with my name and rank and nothing more when she questioned.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
19th Highsun, 1344
Encountered an odd type of elf the other day. Heavy smoker and like myself speaks with an accent. What troubled me was his accent, I don't know if it was a piss take of my own accent or if he does indeed sound and act like a dwarf.
Engaging in idle conversation he asked some rather probing questions, such as how often the bridge was guarded, is it often posted with one lone guard, if there were any patrol out that I may know of. That type of thing. I feed him false information on each question and before he left on his way into town he donated 65 gold coins and 1 cigarillo.
My gut doesn't feel right about that lad. Probing for information then offering a solider of the Fist gifts. I will keep an eye on this one he may be up to something.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
20th Highsun, 1344
Today I was informed by Candle keep of an incident that had occurred a couple of hours ago. An unknown man was being escorted to Candle Keep by their guards for changing into a Devil along the road and attacking the locals. During this escort to Candle Keep the accused man was set upon by a Sun elf known as Gilandri'lith Asunluana who killed her target. The Candle Keep guards proceeded to pursue her and eliminate her.
Upon my daily patrol I was called upon to by Candle Keep and inform of this and that I could find the bodies down the path. Why the Guards didn't take the bodies into their city I have no idea? While searching for these bodies I found nothing and assume that they have been devoured by the roaming ogres or have escaped through unknown means.
I did, however, encounter a tall human dress in a dark robe and a black hood. As I approached him for questioning he became verbally hostile and demanded I go away. Fool, doesn't he know that we dwarfs are the most stubborn of all races. Standing firm I question him on weather he saw two bodies and he lied right in my face, saying that the bodies where in the forest near by.
Further verbal abuse was exchanged between us and I demanded the individuals name. Surprisingly he cooperated and told me his name was John Smith. I let him off with a warning.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
19th Leaffall, 1344
While on guard at the bridge I heard a commotion from behind me at Jorns farm. As I approached the end of the bridge I saw several Drow and allies surrounded by a group of citizens. With kill on sight orders I proceeded to bury three of the scum before I made a tactical with drawl to the city for Fist reinforcements.
When I returned to the battle ground it was clear that the raid was thwarted by the good citizens of Baldurs. We also managed to capture two of the gits that we dragged to the cells to torture.
The male Drow was a tough cookie to crack, after being heavily persuaded and with the aid of Myhuns tricks we managed to get some information out of the scum.
Apparently, they have declared war on the Banites because the cult has began to preach in there home and have converted many Drow. He also mentioned that they were aided by a tiefling witch who had the capability to portal them to the surface. Obviously, the tiefling doesn't have great control over this magic as they where meant to portal to the Banite lair.
On revealing this information we had no use for the Drow and took him to the end of the bridge to be hung. Unfortunately, another portal opened and many demons spilled out. I managed to take down 4, including the Drow who was to be hung but was separated from the rest of the Fist on the Bridge. I eventually staggered back to the closest temple covered in blood and barely alive, I would have died if not for the kindness of a wondering citizen who bandaged my wounds.
We, however, still have the mistress locked in our cells. Suggest we up security. She my be important.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
16th The Rotting 1344
Today has been an interesting day. It has been years since I last saw their kind but today, plain as day, I came across one of those grey skinned bastard orcs. The brute was unarmed and worn no armour, I quick persuasion of my axe had him leave the city rather quickly. But when theres one there will be others, I had better make sure they know there place. Preferably in a shallow grave.
While on patrol with Captain Crownsilver towards the town of Beregost we encountered Officer Cross leaving the vicinity. The Captain proceeded to interrogated the officer on several issues of conduct and insubordination when a noisy citizen began to listen into the conversation.
After being order to leave the citizen insulted the Captain. This unfortunate escalation of events lead me into a chase after the citizen and myself thumping him with the hilt of my axe in order for him to return to the Captain to apologize. After some persuasion the citizen realise the error of his ways and went along his merry way.
I then further escorted Officer Cross back to the city under orders from Captain Crownsilver. Not long after we took our post at the bridge did another incident occur. A female roughly my hight was attempting to leave the city under the mask of a helm. I stopped her and ordered to identify herself. She refused so I drew my axe and gave her a second chance, she began to stall and before I knew it a shadowy figure appeared from the bushes behind her. This lead to battle and I cut down the law breaker and tossed the body over the bridge.
Officer Cross proceeded to chase the other assailant screaming Drow. This rookie is obsessed with Drow! and dispatched her. On returning he informed me he caught a halfdrow. I give him the order to dispose of the corpse and dump it into the river.
I will enjoy my bunk tonight, after a stiff ale a good sleep will be my worth while reward.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
1st The Drawing Down, 1344
On the patrol route I encountered currently suspended Officer Beren Cross, who was currently assisted by his band of men in a identifiable silver and blue uniform. I was approached by one of them, an elf, who asked if the Flaming Fist had restarted patrols. I informed him patrols had never stopped which was commented on another of his men, a ginger bearded human, with an obscenity. I continued to inform him that the Fist only make patrols when there are two or more present to undertake the duty. I also informed him that he was unable to see my back up, which prompted them to cast magical wards in order to spot my accomplice. We carried on with our patrol before they could finish casting there wards.
On an additional note we may have an interested party wanting to join the ranks. He goes by the name Sonny and I recommend him highly. He is highly adapt in the art of stealth and could be a valuable asset. He, however, is a horned cursed blood.
Officer Rocshanks
Road Wardens
9th The Drawing Down, 1344
Been a busy night. Attained 5000 coffers from Myhun to give little Tuk a bath. Order where overturned by Captain Crownsilver, who ordered Tuk to be thrown out of the way. Myhun was not please with this outcome and has threatened me with bringing my wife to Baldurs. I seriously hope he was bluffing!
Stopped a hooded individual entering the city, after he tried to walk away from the situation he was caught and identified. Appear this was the second time he tried it and is purposely ignoring the law. Captain Crownsilver allowed him to go free. The guards have now been alerted to kill all hooded and armed individuals that enter the city.
Was approached by a woman in red who was armed and hooded. Demanded that she disarm and derobe. She informed me that the Captain had attacked her without reason. She began to cause a scene so I arrested her. She ran off and cast some arcane mumbo jumbo on herself. Tuk seemed to know her, and tried to vouch for her. I placed a bounty on her head, hopefully some citizen will drag her in.
Stopped a second woman from entering wearing red. This time with reason and gave her the option to walk away. She did not like the thought and due to her beliefs she walked away.
An armed orc charged past me on the bridge, I chased after the brute and beat him up on the road. Left him there bruised and gave him something to think about.
The numpties have escaped from there cells I think!
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
16th, The Drawing Down, 1344
Since the death of Crownsilver I haven't had the chance to get back onto regular duty, I barely get the chance to leave the HQ, there is so many work to do. Questioning of the prisoners has only proved tiresome and it appears that Beren has kept his troops in specified groups. Many of his men claimed not to know of other individuals within the organisation. For a time, long before this war even began, I have been keeping tabs on all these 'Holy Zealot Orders'. I know who in this order knows who, how could you not when they conducted meetings right by the gipsy camp in front of us guards at Wyrms Crossing. Beren is a moron of the highest order in that respect.
Releasing Ceadis, this arrogant prick, because he has diplomatic immunity has only angered me. Claims he has nothing to do with this, knows nothing of it and is disheartened at Cross' actions. I say he is only saving his own skin like a coward that he is. As for the others that have been released on orders they are good men and women, they have shown some trace of honour for there kind. It's a rare thing to see in these troubling times.
Why did Myhun release the two elf's, neither of which were Berens soldiers, known to be involved in this attack? What has he to gain in all of this? One thing is to be sure, he won't be leading the wardens much longer once the Duke gets a hold of him. I can only hope this doesn't cause any tensions, Myhun did bring in the traitor and am aware of the awesome magical might of this mage. I would hate to be ordered against the man, he has become a friend.
Reading over the reports of Officer Aseph & Corporal Dredd it appears there are sightings that Sir Justin Crownsilver is haunting the land. I would have scoffed at this ridiculous notion, and I did when a citizen came to report it. I humoured her and took a record of what see had seen. It wasn't until she spoke about why the spirit couldn't rest that swayed my suspicion, she told me that the spirit couldn't rest until justice had been served to these four, and a quote
“A monk, a mislead female elf, an angered male elf and the fallen”
These are descriptions, poor ones at best, of the four murderers that where seen that day. There was no mention of the unseen assailants that attacked with bows and magic assaults from the shadows of the surrounding crowd. It disgusts me that out of all those who witnessed this only a handful of people have come forward to testify what they had witness this day.
My suspicion leads me to believe that someone from this crowd, perhaps a master of shadow puppets or a necromancer or some such, has created an image of our fallen leader and is manipulating the public. To what end I have no idea, when I get a moment I will go investigate these 'sightings' for myself.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
22nd, The Drawing Down, 1344
My investigations into the reported sightings of the spirit of Captain Crownsilver have, unfortunately, proved fruitful. I began with questioning the Priest of Helm about the corpse, to determine if we were dealing with a necromancer. I was informed that the corpse had not been removed from the temple and that resided in a sarcophagus at the rear of the church. I proceeded to check on the corpse to ensure that it was indeed still there. Before I had reached the body I encountered the spirit face to face.
My experience of this was short lived as I made a hastily advance for the nearest exit. I don't see ghosts everyday of the week, especially not those of fallen brothers so understandably this hasn't been the most pleasant of encounters. I now seek council with a spirit shaman, I have many questions that I need answered.
On an unrelated issue, after reading Officer Newnham's report on an undead army. I myself have been informed by a group of elves that there is a threat on our northern boarders. I do not trust these reports as nothing substantial has been put forward as evidence, furthermore the elves reporting this are close friends of the two involved with the death of the Captain. I believe that this is an attempt by the elven council to misdirect us away from our current sights on the Valiant Heart. I will command Corporal Dredd to ensure that our officers are not mislead by these interfering elves, as with the disobedient traitor Cross, any Officer of the Fist found to be mislead and aiding these renegade elves will have there pay docked and given clean up duty for a week.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
26th, The Drawing Down, 1344
With rumours spreading like wild fire amongst the public about an undead army I decided to deputise a gathering of law abiding citizens and travel north into the Fields of the Dead. Early into the scouting we encountered a scattered amount of skeleton warriors, disorganised and wondering. This was soon to change the further we travelled deeper into the fields. Eventually we were being attacked on all sides by organised war bands of skeleton troops. I gave the order for a tactial withdrawal, and returned to the gate with all parties accounted for. We will need to further investigate this situation.
Since our fellow sergeant Borton retired there have been no standard patrols of the Fields of the Dead. I fear that due to out lack of presence in this area the numbers of the undead have increased. I plan to take over from Bortons patrol route, present road wardens will accompany me and if need be more citizens will be deputised for make shift scouting parties.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
2nd, Deepwinter, 1345
My current orders are to seek out the remains of the Valiant Heart and recruit them into the ranks. Refusal is not an option if they wish for a full pardon. On a personal note, my gut instinct tells me more holy men in the ranks is a bad idea.
On a patrol south I was informed of a Drow presence in the vicinity, I set up a guard position just south of Beregost and fortunately encountered the pair. It took the male all of his strength from his god to budge me from my position and make a full retreat to Beregost temple for aid. Here I found Officer Redford and after the priests had healed my wounds we set off to were I last encountered the Drow and set up a guard post. There were no further encounters. I suspect they fled south to Amn, it's there problem now.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
15th, Deepwinter, 1345
So far all attempts to find the remaining troops of the Valiant Heart have proved to be fruitless, it is as if they have all scattered into the four winds. I will continue my search on a passing scale but it seems I will be unable to round up all these troops before Beren is put to death. however, regarding recruitment, it appears from the extra paper worked on file that we have a new recruit, an officer Grum Silveraxe. Obviously, from the manner in which he writes he is an uneducated kin. I may have to arrange writing classes for the recruits with one of our scholars.
Now on to a worrying concern, Grey Orc numbers are on the increase and recently while in discussion with the public it appears that there is rumors of a tribe. From the alleged statements the orcs numbers are being kept in control by the elven council. Furthermore, this tribe has set up on Ironfaar/Fist alliance territory. As mush as I despise these creatures it seems that the situation is being dealt with by the public accordingly. All Road Wardens are, however, to be on alert when on patrol and report on all hostile activities as usual. If this tribe becomes a potential threat, we will be there to crush them.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
17th, Deepwinter, 1345
Today I eat humble pie as this report comes from an eye witness due to my failure. I remember nothing of these events but as I was informed that I lost my head it does not surprise me. The last thing I do remember was investigating further into the Orc blight that we have. It is no secret that I hate these creatures and I admit I wanted to bloody my axe.
Anyway from the eye witness report it seems I encountered two large orcs along the Trade way, just as I met them a woman came running down the road screaming Drow. Quickly a battle broke out and a Drow stepped out of the darkness and killed the woman. I am told I held out for sometime against both orcs and two Drow attacking from the shadows. I died doing my duty.
One of the orcs then proceeded to cut off my head... Feckin Orc bastard! However, this does bring up a worrying aspect. We are well aware that Orcs and Drow have fought side by side before and this appears to be no different. This issue may be a bigger threat than I had first suspected.
I ship out to Chult in a week, they will have to deal with this issue in my absence.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Road Wardens
16th, Summertide, 1345
It is good to be home, and let it be stated that I feckin hate Chult. The weather is too hot, the people are too feckin stupid and the wildlife... well feck me frogmen that the locals call Bullywugs! I'm glad to be back on home turf, and reacquaint myself with old routine.
Met the Ironfarr ambassador, my replacement, a fine comely dwarven wench. Good to see more dwarven folk in the ranks, especially the lesser sex. Seems the Ironfarr have gone from strength to strength in my absence, I wonder if any of the founders are still alive? Anyway it's good to know the alliance is still strong between us, loyal friends are hard to come by these days.
Went out on patrol today with one of the greenhorns, my first patrol since I got back. Kids name was Ethan or Eltan or some such human name. Overly trusting type, almost told me his entire life story on the patrol, trained by dwarfs and a helmite from the north. Just need to ready him for the dirt with the rest so he's prepared for the ugy side of the job, he should be a fine addition.
The patrol was quiet except for the encountered a group of elves over a corpse south of Beregost. Lucky that one of them knew the recruit otherwise they would have all been enjoying our jailors special in a 10 by 10 cell on murder charges.
Side note: I've been gone too long, last I saw Nashkel it was a burnt out village. Good to know that my donation helped out with that, wonder if I can get my coin back now that they are up and running. Need to speak with Myhrun about it.
Side note: My current attire is no longer uniform with the rest of the Fist. I will need to make arrangements with the quartermaster.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
23rd, Summertide, 1345
These new recruits are soft as Shïte and stupid as orcs, I will need to kick them into shape. Today recruit Lightbringer requested a road patrol, I ordered Corporal Grunga to take the recruit and scout North in the dead lands. Recruit Lightbringer continued to talk to citizens on the bridge as if it were a tea party. Corporal Grunga failed to assert her authority over recruit Lightbringer and march the squad north.
Recruit Fetters arrived and Recruit Lightbringer took it upon himself to take Recruit Fetters on a patrol south along the trade route. Eventually the Corporal went to retrieve both recruits. I was informed by the Corporal that Recruit Fetters got herself lost and that she would not be experienced enough to scout the northern lands. This confused me as I did not give any orders for Recruit Fetters to join the squad.
Recruit Lightbringer has been ordered to return to Head Quarters and will spend the weekend on Bridge and city duty for disobeying orders. If he is seen away from his post while in uniform he will be hanged as a traitor. WE WILL NOT HAVE ANOTHER BEREN CROSS INCIDENT!
Corporal Grunga has been given two weeks Latrine Duties for disagreeing with me. If she continues to fail to lead her subordinates there will be further consequences.
Recruit Fetters has been left to the wilds for following another recruits orders and not reporting to the senior solider present. If she returns alive she will have learnt a life lesson.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
28th, Summertide, 1345
Today Apprentice Lightbringer abandoned his post and rushed south with some urgency. I quickly chased after him and reprimanded him by the pathway to the wood of Sharp Teeth. He argued with me claiming that he had be given information from his informants about an Orc war band and that it was written the the "military code", his words, that all Fist should respond to emergency situations.
Telling the superior who has currently rewritten the Flaming Fist manual about what is in the manual, when it is not, is not a bright idea. However, it seemed that his informants were correct and there was a war band of Orcs gathering in the woods. I took control of the situation and had the small gathering of people, that had formed around us, deputized.
An echo of drums bellowed from deep within the woods, an all too familiar sound of a war chant. With the deputized band of troops with ventured in to the forest and battled are way through orc scouting parties. This brought us to the mouth of there lair, where they attacked us with goblin sappers and Ogrillon. Quickly dispatched, I sent in a scouting party escorted by Apprentice Lightbringer and surveyed the cave entrance for locations to plant explosives.
Sounds of heavy battle and screams came from within the cave, so I ordered in the rear guard to advance and support the scouting party. It came to light that the orc war band was being lead by a demon force which were entering our plane through some sort of portal. Battle raged on deep into the cave and many lost there lives, I myself fell with heavy wounds. It was Apprentice Lightbringer that pulled me out of the fray and recovered me from my wounds.
Seeing that this was not going well, I gave orders to Lightbringer to set the explosives and light the fuse. In full retreat, all but a few made it out of the caverns before the explosives detonated.
I have a feeling this is not the last of it and our efforts will only hold them for so long. My gut also tells me that this has happened before and I plan to search the records for similar occurrences.
Apprentice Lightbringer requested that he should be promoted in the field of battle for his courage and prowess. For failing to follow the chain of command I denied his request. His actions were misplaced and I should have stripped him of his uniform , however, he did save my life so I have given him a good thump in the face for it and put him back in the ranks.
Good solider making bad judgement calls. I have straightened him out so lets hope he take heed in my words ...or I will personally hang him myself.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
5th, Highsun, 1345
Another quiet day of doing the rounds, I have a feeling that some of the populace are avoiding me... Good. However, I did get a visit from Eric today, boy wanted back into the Flaming Fist, has gone to the Duke and asked to be taken back. The Duke being the card that he is said he could come back with four votes from senior Fist troops. He told me Corporal Grunga turned him down out right and Magister Myhrun refused to tell him how he'd vote.
I said I'd gave him a yes on two conditions, one that he leave the Weave if he managed to get another three votes and secondly that he would train directly under me. I have some tests and challenges to put him through to try his loyalties, I wonder how he will take to arresting or killing his friends?
My worries are that Eric is too friendly at times and needs some piss and vinegar in his blood. I will be ensuring that his peers give him a hard time if he comes back. If he's to become a Fist his attitude will have to change.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
Additional:
Today didn't end so quietly, I was disturbed by a crowd on the bridge that were calling for the arrest of an elf who was attacking people along the trade way. Before I could get a description, the culprit fled past me and out of the City. I pursued the individual but lost him at Lionsway. Here I came across a man from the crowd who also chased this elf, went by the name of Guilo. I deputized him as he got a better look at the elf and had been one of the victims the elf attacked.
Our searches lead us to the boarder were my jurisdiction ended, however, using our wits "lord" Guilo hired me for 10 gold pieces as an escort and bodyguard to deal with his business which just so happened to be a man hunt of this elf. Unfortunately, our searching proved fruitless, we assume that either he died in the Cloudpeak blizzard or from the giant's that roam the mountains.
Side note: It's been over a century since I last saw my homeland. The peaks no longer look familiar to me.
10th, Highsun, 1345
An old armsman is now back from Chult it would appear. The woman seems very sure of herself, calling herself an arms "woman" and stating that her promotion is just around the corner with claims that her reports to Commander Crownsilver would grant her such. Well those reports can sit on his desk until he returns from Amn. If she isn't prepared to file them through the proper channels, then her reports and sit on his desk and gather dust. As for arms woman, were do these second class wenches get off? The Corporal and myself drilled it into her that the titles generic, pretty sure she got that straight.
I have another problem with her, I saw the same elf, that myself and apprentice "toilet scrubber" had arrested before, being taken to the cells. Later the same elf walked passed me out of the gate and I was informed that our armsman had taken the advice of an apprentice, currently on latrine duty, and gave the elf a 1000 gold fine. This is a lesser sentence than the two days jail time we previously gave him! I must be going senile! I was pretty sure repeat offenders take a harsher sentence and also; when do Armsmen ask apprentices for advice?
I also met our new addition sent by the council of four. Odd that we received no formal information on him, and I made a fool of myself when I met him. A councillor for the troops, someone to tell there troubles to. If we are hiring soft fannies that need to go have a cry to some wet nosed toff then I must not being doing my job well enough! All these men need after a hard day is good stiff drink and peaceful sleep.
That is why, today I went and collected some of Myhrun and Rocshanks secret stashed ale from CandleKeep. Brewed by me in the age old traditional dwarven way and enhanced magically by Myhrun to put hair on your chest. Not for women, unless they want to start shaving their cleavage.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
15th, Highsun, 1345
I had planned to attend the theatre presentation last night as a guest, but, to my pleasant surprise I was security at the event. Some of the troops are surprised at this, I may be a hard ass but I do appreciate the arts. When the Commander assigned the task of security to the Corporal and myself I had only expected minimal guard duty. That was until four guards where posted to the entrance of the White Mask and a further four elite armsmen were assigned within the establishment.
Such a high level of security could only mean that we were to be honoured by distinguished quests. Little did I expect Duke Belt and Duchess Liia Jannath to attend. The event it's self went well but there had to be several... interruptions. Like the audacity of Eric Lightbringer during the occasion to request an audience with the Duke an Duchess as they enjoyed the show. He was very very lucky he was merely denied and not reprimanded for his actions.
Later that night the Commander had given me the great honour as personal guard to both the Duke and Duchess as he joined in with the dancing. It would have gone pleasantly if there had not have been a troublemaker disturbing the Duchesses entertainment of dancing. A quiet word in his ear and he soon left. If only every incident went like this, I didn't even need to raise my voice.
As for the plot of the play, I had lost all track of what was happening but I did pick up on some bits and pieces of it. What wild fantasies these performers have, a rightful trial for a Red Wizard and the way they spoke of a Flaming Fist Captain. Such things do not happen in the real world without dire consequences.
After the performance I was again honoured with the duty of escorting the Duchess back to the Palace. I will point out that this new man, the one that calls himself an Ear is worrying my troops. Even the security officer Mehtar had to question me on his presence in the White Mask and why he was involved in security. This foreigners methods are unusual, he is meant to be approachable yet men do not trust him, he creeps them out and it affects there capability to do the job when he is around.
My gut tells me there is something off about him and I have a hunch that he is here for another purpose.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
17th, Highsun, 1345
The following is correspondence between Myself and our nterfering counsellor.
Sergeant,
After spending some time with the troops it is beginning to occur that they do not care for my presence. This is always the way of things to an outsider, however it is becoming obvious to me that I am causing more harm then good when it comes to the efficiency of some of the Fist when performing their duties. As the mandate for my overall duty is to do nothing to interfere with the purpose of the Flaming fist, I feel by my very presence it is beginning to be difficult. As simply quitting and revoking my vow and word is not an option, I ask you for advice how to do my job but yet not interfere with the normal goings on. If my presence detracts from the efficiency of the unit it will serve no purpose.
The Ear.
Counsellor Wren
I can only assume you have read or been informed of my report concerning your presence affecting the men's behaviour. Otherwise I do not believe for one moment I would have received 'this' letter from yourself.
You ask me for advice on 'your' job, a job I believe has little purpose within the Fist. All right I will give you the advice you seek. If you want the respect of the troops you will have to earn it in the same way they did. Don the uniform as they do, face the same difficulties that they do everyday, walk a hundred miles in there shoes.
We are warriors, once you understand us, once you understand the mentality of this family, you will be one of us. Until then this will not be easy for you.
Sgt Rocshanks.
Sergeant I have not received any such report, but it does not surprise me that it exists. The focus and reason for said message was due to the fact that a number of times while on patrol, or on guard a soldier will spend time watching me as opposed to thier surrounding which any person can quicckly deduce defeats the purpose and detracts from the Fist themselves.
My Mandate by the Duke is Clear I am not to wear the uniform, I am not to enforce the law but to assist and I pull guard duty when others do so and I am present for this if a trooper wishes to avail themselves to my prupose that is up to them. As for it being 'easy' you misunderstand me. TO be perfectly blunt to come sniveling to you because it is hard is not me nor will it ever be, to come to ask you a question to better help the efficency of the unit and advice, that is indeed what it is for.
There is no magic sling bullet that will solve all our ills and suddenly make them trust me. They will trust me or they will not in their time. Until then I acceept no pay for I feel if I am not 'earning' my keep by doing my job I will not accept it. You did not previously know this since I didn't feel it necessary to advertise the fact.
To revisit my orginal question, how can I assist in the solution and stop being part of the problem?
Counsellor Wren
Counsellor
So you're getting paid for this crap! Well as long at you're not accepting any payment I can sleep better at night knowing no coin is being wasted. Asking me for advice and snivelling to me because it's Too Hard are one and the same thing you snivelling foreign dog. I expect nothing less from someone who comes from a country that has a counsellor in there armed force. What kind of soft ass sparkle fairies do you employee in that army! No matter, I don't care.
Ever hear of the saying "there is no smoke without fire?" If the men are watching you, they don't trust you, and if they don't trust you, I suspect you. So to revisit your question on how to solve the problem, well if I find proof that you're a spy your mandate won't be worth snot and you can spend the rest of your days a cell.
Problem solved!
Sgt Rocshanks
Let it be known I am now investigating our new 'friend' and ordering the troops to keep a third eye on him. Suspect this man at all times, I smell a turd in the punch bowl.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
21st, Highsun, 1345
So the 'second chancer' has come back to us. I do believe he is well versed in my orders and I expect his first report very soon. He is obviously brown nosing me and being very careful, which is affecting his training. Like the other armsmen I want Lightbringer to be useful, not just capable. This is way I have given Corporal Ironfaar orders to run Apprentice Lightbringer through the ropes, the hard way. This will either make or break the apprentice, if the Corporals methods work I will put forward recommendation for promotion.
I have filed a request to the quartermaster for Lightbringer to be equipped with Apprentice foot solider uniform. It seems the Quartermaster was taking the piss and gave him high a high ranking Archers tunic. I have also informed Lightbringer that once I feel he is ready and have promoted him to Armsman, that he should speak with the quartermaster again and get the standard dress.
My investigation on Wren continue, I have been speaking with the people who know or have met with him. It does form an interesting perspective about the individual. Nothing further to report.
With the disappearance of several of the recruits I have began a recruitment drive. I am now attempting to hunt down members of the Red Field that abandoned the mercenary group that was exiled. I have only found one so far, and it turned out he was an orc! So I didn't bother with it, no matter how desperate we get for men I will never offer an orc a position within the ranks.
Now as for elves, well I recorded an elven written notice on the tavern on the Elfsong it read as follows:
To any of the People of Doron Amar who are looking for a way to serve their community while honing their own abilities:
A series of training patrols, to be supervised by Amalie and Asmund Breyer, will be departing in the forthcoming days. If you are willing and able to contribute, please sign your name below, along with a brief statement of what you anticipate your role would be in such a venture.
I will be contacting them shortly to set them straight.
Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
24th, Highsun, 1345
Sergeant Rockshanks
By order of Colonel Sir Justin Crownsilver.
You are to investigate all persons claiming to have apprehended "The Taddler", persons found to be falsely claiming this bounty to be put to death without delay and written report to be made to the Castle.
You are given authority to pursue this matter however you shall see fit.
You are to report upon your findings and the nature of this matter as a whole at such time as you feel you may brief Sir Justin or myself regarding the likelihood this matter will generate further disorder.
Captain Guthrun
25th, Highsun, 1345
Captain Guthrun
To further pursue this matter I must have knowledge of this Kaden individual. Is he of noble birth with the authority to place such a bounty? Is he a man of high influence able to attain the right to set this bounty? or is he connected and if so has someone provided him with this authority?
If he has no standing and is just another numpty I can quiet quickly put a nail in this coffin.
Sergeant Rocshanks
25th, Highsun, 1345
Sergeant Rockshanks.
I present for your consumption the report of investigator Wren, please liaise with Colour Sergeant Celtis and Sir Justin. I have flagged this for his attention and expect orders shortly.
Captain GuthrunKaden - Paladin of Mystra
He was present at the attack on the mask and through out the situation. Magics were invovled they were not normal rats.
Origianlly there were hangers on asking Selias for a Rat impression (read Taddler edition 1 for references to this), they were driven out of an Inn and went to the Theater to only find lots of rats infesting the place. A few crates were broken open.
Kaden discovered that the rats had major magical tinkering, suggested they leave. Selis and Solus did not. Eventually Solus was killed int he flames - recommend partail cupability for his death be upon him (Solus) since he did not heed the warning and strolled out without issue. The rat corpses after being discovered to be of magic began to smolder and explode. These explosions are what killed Solus at some point.
Kaden burst in doors trying to slavange the place after removing the two.
Kaden through his bounty for the name is send a message that he intends to complete. He feels partially cuplable for the deaths and will withdraw his public offering. However he will offer the private bounty to certain individuals within a ten day of this discussion if no other cooperative agreements are made with the fist.
He is willing to work with us.. I hope that he can be convinced to offer our men the bounty of 100,000 coin, but that is above my pay grade in decision making. He will see to the families of those that perished in a private way and wishes for us to not tell the families of his wishes so he may deal with them indvidually. Seek their forgiveness and see to their knees.
Opinion: I feel this is a golden opportunity for our men to be seen as truly caring for the populace as well as allowing for redemption of a wrong doer if they truly are repetent. The only way working with Kaden will work is if he apolgoies to the insult given to Captain Crownsilver and to the families at large, as well as the Dukes for distrubing their peace. This humbling would provide good perspective to others what to do and not to do, and as sergeant rockshanks has stated Paladins do not usually swallow their pride. Having him put in chains or put in the cell for his beliefs would simply play to his steadfast determination, requiring him to see the errors of his ways and have him admit them openly would be a far greater punishment to one of a prideful nature. Whether or not this is his nature has yet to be seen.
I of course defer to Sergeant Rockshanks direction in these things for he is the SoC inthis investigation.
Counselor/Investigator Wren
27th, Highsun, 1345
For the eyes of Colonel Crownsilver ONLY.
It has been a confusing week, my orders were quite clear. Put to death anyone claiming the bounty on the Taddler and enforce the law as I saw fit. It has not gone this way, Captain Guthrun saw fit to enforce his authority over these orders.
His first order was to replace the punishment of death with the following:
All persons found to be falsely accusing another of being "The Taddler" shall henceforth have their tongue struck with a brand and the first finger of their right hand removed at the knuckle.
His second order is as follows:
All investigative works or matters pertaining to the said individual "Kaden" whom, being associated with certain notices is alleged to have been guilty by proxy of crimes against the Duke, are hereby suspended indefinitely.
We know for a fact Kaden took the law into his own hands and placed a bounty on a nameless individual. Therefore he is guilty of impersonation of an official and should be charged with such. Additionally for the damaged he has caused he was to be held accountable for the murders. Punishment for murder is death, however, I saw fit to be merciful and fine Kaden the exact amount that he had placed on his bounty.
These orders now prevent him from being reprimanded, which lead me to believe that Captain Guthrun is a pussy and is being manipulated.
His latest orders have no understanding to them.
Giving away 1000 goin coins for information, weather it be true or false can only be considered the act of stupidity and wasteful to our resources. Additonally he is fining people for reading a print of someones slanderous opinions, none of which are condemnable of Blasphemy! This taddler has been very careful not to break our laws as of yet. Hey while we are fining people for the tattler, why not fine them for having the Gazette or a posted note from the message board?For the Attention of The Citizens of Baldur's Gate, being it's environs and attendant lands.
By Order.
For information leading to apprehension, by agents of his Grace Duke Eltan's forces, of the individual known as "The Taddler" his servants, allies or supporters, the sum of one thousand pieces of gold shall be given.
It is Futher Ordered.
Henceforth any individual who shall be found in posession of that publication known as "The Taddler" and who shall not willingly turn the said publication over to the lawful servants of Duke Eltan's justice for destruction, shall be fined ten pieces of copper. Any establishment fond to be providing means for the distribution or publication of the said "Taddler" shall be further fined ten pieces of silver for each copy found to have been produced or sold there, and ten pieces of silver for each copy suspected to have been produced or sold there.
All proceeds of the said fines to go to the the Temple of Helm where a charity has been established to aid the victims of crime.
Captain Guthrun
Flaming Fist Mercenary Company
Baldur's Gate
Additionally, my investigations on Wren lead me to arresting him for Disruption of Official Business and act to accept Bribary. He advised command to let the paladin Kaden go free without charges being pressed and then wanted the Fist to climb into bed with him in order to get his money. I had placed him under house arrest for being a traitor that he is but it seems he has manipulated those in higher command and has my orders over thrown.
As I said before I believe the Captain motives to be manipulated and I further request his actions to be internally investigated. I think the counsellor may be the source of this manipulation.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
31st, Highsun, 1345
Current standing orders are to drop all investigations on counsellor Wren, he's now a damn war hero after standing tall against a Drow raid. I don't like the man but credit were credit is due after his actions. This leads me to my last report were I became over zealous with accusations, which I now retract and offer my apologises for. This was fuelled by my temper at allowing Kaden to go free of any accountability for his actions. My gut feeling told me Kaden was a bad apple and sure enough he has now been banished.
Additionally for my over zealous actions I have been cut any wages for a month and I am now on double guard shifts. Well feck it, I'll reacquaint myself with the troops, they'll love that. Especially now that today we had one hell of a recruitment drive. Three Initiates, possibly four and a Corporal. It's good to have a trained doc on the team, Corporal Ironfaars method of patching up our wounded is..... well if you have experienced it you can't "unexperience" it!
As his first command I have given 30'000 gold coins and ordered him to equip himself with whatever he needs to get started. I informed him that Candlekeep and Beregost could provide him with items not available in the citadel. Initiates Eburay and Garhom are to escort him safely to these destinations.
Credit to our resident empty head, Initiate Lightbringer, he is responsible for at least three of the new men. Possibly a forth if the lass joins us as well. His attitude to the populace has paid off today, we just need him to focus his loyalty more and find a way to get him to talk a lot less.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
7th, The Fading, 1345
Case: Assassination of Sir Jonas Rokranon.
To be dealt with quietly, all troops are ordered not to speak of this openly under penatly of flogging. Investigator Wren is currently chasing up Athor Siger, the man who saved Sir Rokranon, for further information. Will await the investigators report on him.
Initiates Eburay and Moonbeam have been ordered to bring in Siomir & Rith'alaria for questioning. Sir Jonas gave us these names and we suspect they are involved with the accusations against suspected assassin Lippi. Additionally, Initiate Moonbeam being a citizen of the Doron Amar elven community has informed me that it is only a few within the community that accuse the halfling of this crime.
Side Note: Initiate Eburay has been given two weeks latrine duty for speaking to me as if we were of equal rank.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Case: Undead Disturbance
During a diner, discussing the political situation, we were intruded upon and informed of a skeletal dragon creature attacking the bridge. On hearing this I made haste to the front-line bearing the colours; rallying the men to stand the line and not let one inch of ground to the creature. After the death of many of our troops we eventually slain the abomination and I took it's skull as a Fist trophy. The skull can now be seen brandished on the walls of the troops bunk, to inspire the men and remind them of the lose we suffered that night.
I must admit that I now see The Ear in a different light, he has tasted the bitter that we Fist do every day. It is apparent now on his demeanour, I no longer distrust this man, but I do not have to like him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Case: Deserter
Watchman Thadrin has been lock up for desertion. I had assumed that he had been assigned to Chult as I had not seen him since I was a watchman myself. Under Commander Crownsilvers order he was never re-assigned to off shore detail. What has me puzzled is that if he did desert so long ago, why would he turn up out of the blue on our doorstep and report for duty? Odd human behaviour.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
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Rocshanks
- Posts: 383
- Joined: Thu May 28, 2009 7:20 am
- Location: Eugene, Oregon
Re: Shall I tell you about my life.
9th, The Fading, 1345
Case: Assassination of Sir Jonas Rokranon.
Luppi Gallows has been released due to insignificant evidence, eye witnesses stating that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time won't suffice for this delicate investigation. Two hins, however, are considered to be the culprit of the assassination. It's time to start rounding them up and squeezing the hin populace for information.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
~Orders~
Sergeant Ironfaar, you will assist me in tracting down Roxanne Elverquist and bringing her back to the castle. If she is uncooperative bring her in the hard way then ensure she knows the following conditions.
She either serves two years in Chult, or she hands in her keys, tabbard and never darkens this Castle again!
~Orders~
Freesword Lightbringer report to me ASAP.
18th, The Fading, 1345
I have been informed by several of the citizens of the citadel that Bhaalist activity has been on the increase. On returning from Beregost I encountered a red haired, full bearded human and his gay partner who stopped me on the trade route to report an incidence of a Bhaal attack. I was told by the red haired man that his lover was killed and two of our own were also slain, apparently one of our human sergeants (perhaps Sergeant Harrow?).
I escorted them to safety within the farmlands and then returned to the scene of the attack, here I came across miss Selis and the paladin bum boys of the Radient Heart. They told me of a Bhaalist attack and that a scum ridden tiefling had been their victim. The demon blood had been taken to the city to be revived so I returned to the city, accompanied with the others, to question the ball bag.
When we just reached just outside the gate at Wyrms Crossing there was a bustle of confusion, from what I gather these Bhaalist had been seen further down the trade way. Instead of talking with demon blood I made haste down the trade way I lost sight of of the Radiant stool pushers who fell behind. I encountered nothing on the roads that day.
This morn I came across two elves who, in a fit of panic, informed me that they had fled from a battle involving the Heart and the cultists. On arrival at the location, these elves showed me, there were signs of battle but neither friend nor foe to be found.
On deduction I believe there may be skirmishing occurring with the Bhaalist cultists and the Radiant Heart. We may get a request from Sir Rokranon seeking aid.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
19th, The Fading, 1345
The new fleet of troops that I gave the grace of wearing the colours have showed up myself and the sergeants with their incompetence, so under the orders of Colonel Crownsilver I have been re-educating them and making examples.
Initiate Moonbeam was the fist, her lack to address me of my proper rank earned her a crack in the ribs. Sergeant Ironfaar has put her under medical since her fall in battle to two dwarven bandits. She has made the outfit look bad, though with any luck she will manage to drag in her attackers at some point and have them put to death. If she manages to do this I will consider her a freesword and ready to be assigned to a company.
Initiate Eburay has received ten lashes for dereliction of duty. I have not seen fit to dishonourably discharge him as he is a strong troop with great potential. However, he is undisciplined and he will need to be moulded into a upstanding fist troop.
As of today Freesword Lightbringer is no longer my pet project as it has been joked about. The lad knows the routine, even though he is an empty head and will often speak mindless drivel. Since he's now a freesword it is now up to him to impress the company commanders and get himself assigned to either guardsman or watchman. I would recommend him on the lines as a guardsman.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
Crownsilver Eulogy
Today is a sad day, today we morn the passing of Colonel Crownsliver. Our commander may have meant something to each and every one of you, personally, he was my friend. He was a great man and always had some great advice ready for me. He had this trait where he could always turn a dull party around.
Justin was such a character. He knew how to be serious at times and he also knew when to joke around. As a friend he was also very dear. He always found time to be with his friends. He was a very loyal and kind friend. He was also very polite; he was the kind of man who always opened doors for ladies.
I know our Commander left lots of things undone and others that he never had a chance to start. But I promise I will continue what he has started and hopefully fulfill his dreams for him. This is just my small way of saying thank you for everything he did for me.
Let’s just be thankful for all the special moments that our commander has left us. And with that, I hope that Justin will continue to live on within our hearts and minds.
For Gold and Glory.
16th, Leaffall, 1345
On reading watchman Lightbringers reports, which now appear to have gone astray, it had been apparent that he had been attacked on duty by a druid. I found the watchman stationed by Wryms Crossing and he took me to the location of the inncident, which had only happened that morning. We set up post by the bridge and waited for the assailant. Not long into the watch an old friend from the druid came to me with the assailant in question. We spoke under terms of parlay which I informed them was fragile and on thin ice.
Uriel, the druid in question, addressed me and told me of what happened. And confirmed the story the trooper had written, except the fact that Lightbringer had used a spell of dark powers, some sort of summoning spell or some such. I have no knowledge of it, but they called it vampiric feast I believe.
During the conversation I had to arrest watchman Lightbringer for his disorderly conduct and his disobedience of a direct order. Corporal Eburay escorted him to the Castle cells. I continued to talk with the druid leader, and placed him under arrest for is incident which was a result of his carelessness.
For the record Watchman Lightbringer conducted himself with honour through out his duty. If Uriel had have agreed to be searched then none of this would have occured. As it stands Uriel believes he is above the law, during the conversation be brought up our alliance agreement believing that this would allow him to forego such searches that we do. The Watchman was searching everyone and did not pick him out as an individual. Running away is a direct breach of the law, the druid would have merely been fined for such disobedience. However, he returned to threaten our troop and attacked.
I arrested Uriel for these crime but he would not come peacefully and claimed that I had no logic. He refused many time after I urged him not to let this break into bloodshed. He attempted to leave the area and I detained him, this is when he became hostile and his dragon attacked me. Battle commenced and I was to fight him and at least 7 of his druids. They failed to drop me in battle, but the battle was not going to go my way so I called for a retreat.
I informed the Lord Paymaster General of what happened. We brought Lightbringer before him to answer for his act of what I can only define as heracy. He spoke the same story as he did to me, yet this time including the arts of black magic. The Duke stripped him of his colours and was to cast him from the citadel. It seems the Fist was everything to Lightbringer and instead of taking his punishment like a man he pussied out. He had to use lethal force to put him down.
Lightbringer was my apprentice, I had forged him into a 'usuable' troop after so many rough edges with him. He tarnished our lord reputation, has smeared the fist in necromancy scandle and has disgraced and dishonoured me. He was my man, but now no longer. For this atrocities his body is now impaled on the gate for all to see.
In the chaos it appears that safety measures have teleported the Duke and his close constituencies to Daggerford. With our company Captain situated in Amn I have been 'promoted' for lack of a better word to Captain. This is unheard of, a Dwarf Captain in the Flaming Fist, risen from the ranks, I'll never hear the end of it from first company.
The Duke won't be back for three days... bugger!
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
19th, Leaffall, 1345
After reading Sergeant Ironfaar's report, I had to confirm the story for myself. Our old tree hugger friend is indeed possessed. It is obvious that this possession is responsible for the thirteen murders at the bridge. If it was anyone else, they would not have been exercised and would have been put to the sword by now, as justice would have it.
Justice demands that we show our ally no favouritism, we must keep face in all of this. Allowing his friends to exercise him will go in our favour, we have shown him mercy and give him his peace. Now we must punish him, I have put him on death row for his crimes of murder.
As for Uriel, I have had time to calm myself from his lack of civil obedience to his own ally. It boils my blood to think of his egotistical actions yet I know the importance of him and his followers. I have thought long and hard about this and I suggest a fair ultimatum.
We will allow the alliance to stand and we will not press any charges if he is willing to accept all guilt, publicly apologise for his unlawful actions and stand down as the leader of the druid circle. If not, we should nullify the alliance with them, banish them from our Citadel and Outlaw them.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
19th, Leaffall, 1345
Suggest, Captain Rocshanks, we await the Duke's return before taking any truly drastic action. We wouldn't want to appear "undiplomatic" would we? I fear this may be seen as a short comming by his Grace upon his return.
Respectfuly
-Guthrun, First Company.
19th, Leaffall, 1345
Diplomacy before Justice, Gythrun? This is my recommendation to the Duke for when he returns, you are in the same position to make your own. How would you handle the situation?
You know that the leader of the druids refused three times to return to the castle to resolve this business with me and instead attacked the Flaming Fist COLOURS. An attack on the Colours as you very well know is a declaration of war.
I do, however, believe that since this Uriel is a man of influence the Duke will do what he has done before. I would assume that there will be a hearing so that everyone who was there will put there version of the story forward. If this does indeed happen I will ensure that our citizen Narasida Zakine is there.
-Rocshanks, Second Company
2nd, The Rotting, 1345
My hatred for this Uriel bastard grows deeper, today I final abandoned my desk and all the damn paperwork and went walk about. It was Narasida Zakine that had told me there was a Druid Circle encampment near to the location where I had been attacked. She had also told me that Corporal Ebruray was aware of its location as well. I am not familiar with it, nor do I know where it is so I sought it out assuming it may be in the south western corner of the coast.
I may have been unable to find the location, but I did manage the impossible. I scared Sergeant Ironfaar, an old fart like me managed to crop out of the passing and startled her. Now if only I could do that to all of our enemies. I ceased my search I accompanied the Sergeant on patrol. Interesting little day, reminded me what it was like to be a grunt again.
On the return we encountered that warmonger Uriel. The scene went without incident, though I ordered the cocky git of the lords land until he is summoned to account for his crimes. I now have orders for the troops to report how many times this Uriel disobeys that order. His arrogance has no bounds, heha the audacity to say we attacked first, yet his lie is unconvincing. He calls us warmongers and slanders even his own treaty say it should be annulled. If his own druid gathering had have been there they would have turned on him themselves to save their honour.
Obviously, now I have returned to my paper work. The current assignments I have issued.
Sergeant Ironfaar is to under take Drill Sergeant duties and kick the fresh meat into shape. After speaking with her the latest recruits have not reported to her for training. Those initiates and the grunts are now in her command, god have mercy on them.
Corporal Eburay is still investigating this Master's Rune cult. I believe this gathering of assassins and necromancers may have connections to the necromancer that was within the ranks of the Weave. Since that Corporal was made aware of my concerns I may place him with the position of Weave Diplomat. We need a replacement after all.
For all general soldiery, they have been informed of the illegal Chointhar river crossings and to deal with it as commanded. I believe this could raise our profile on the current criminal underground. A list of usual suspects may be of use to us at later dates.
Lastly there are grumblings with the higher ranked officers, the paymasters shilling that they make from patrols is only fit for the grunts. It is grunt work after all. Some have not been paid an officers wage in months and it is mere loyalty that they continue to serve. In fear there may be mutiny if it continues, or we may see the most loyal turn to corruption for the prospect of coin. I would urge the superior command to consider this with great judgement.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
12th, The Rotting, 1345
The lunatic being held in our cells is a man called Davoren Ignacious Hellsheart the Third. As I stretched my legs and took in some air on the Wyrms Crossing an old coot approached me and informed me that he was ready for duty as a new initiate. I had no idea who this old codger was and had watchman Fentin identify him.
It came to light that this was the man who had helped catch the Red Wizard the other day and had the good word of Sir Justin Crownsilver to be recruited into the ranks. I thought nothing of it and during his recruitment, against my better judgement, I skipped his character test and began to swear him in. It was moment later that Watchman Fentin disrupted the initiation.
Fentin wished my presence in private so I ordered Davoren to stay in the room and then spoke with Fentin in the corridor. He passed me the report made by the garrison regarding the old man I was recruiting. As I took in this knowledge the culprit left the room and confirmed he was indeed a warlock. At that moment security was in breach, I could not rule out an assassination attempt on the Duke... Not after Lightbringers stunt... and had the warlock beaten down. Gods, what if there was another assassination attempt! I would think the Duke is sick of Daggerford.
We dragged the warlocks unconscious body to the cells and have left him there. As I was writing this report the Commander sought me out and we have just spoken with the prisoner. He acts mad, speaking in riddles and to himself. Though before this he did seem to have very clear moments of judgement so I feel that this is just an "act".
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
17th, The Rotting, 1345
It's been a few days since the (person) waving contest with that arse fiend Norton. It turned out that I'm a damn tripod and Nortons a wee sissy pansy with girly arms. I had a conversation with some of the lads and we all agree that Norton, looks like a quare and sounds like a quare. So he's probably a quare. There has also been a motivational song, well its more like a chant considering how my hounds sing, that I has been going around my hounds for a couple of days. It's very much like the childrens game eye spy but instead they sing out what they see.
From what I can grasp one lad sings "I see a" then names what he see's then this is followed with the line "Do you see a" and repeats the thing that he saw. The rest of them chime in and sing "Yes, we see a" again naming the item then they all sing "What do you see" and the person who sang at the start calls out a name of one of the other men. Well when I walked out into the yard I heard one of the ensigns sing.
"I see a Sword, do you see a Sword?" "Yes we see a Sword! What do you see?"and the cocky ensign shouts "Captain Rocshanks". Well I couldn't drop the ball on my lads, would have been bad for moral. Looking to my left I saw that quare Norton so I sang. "I see a bitch, do you see a Bitch?" but then nothing but silence came from the men.
They have all been given double shifts.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
27th, The Rotting, 1345
Perversion of the law most foul! Today I watched as First Company Thedran, one of Norton's men, arrested miss Alison Schlump for blasphemy toward helm. She jested that her and her husband have a rump on the alter. On commanding her to disarm she protested. Now if she had have protested to one of my hounds, my hound would have smashed her in the teeth and dragged her to a cell, however, Thedran attempted it 'peacefully'.
This lead Sir Jonas Rokranon into the middle of this heated exchange. Under whispered word, Thedran stripped off his colours and sat by the fire and Alison walked free. This is grievous abuse of power!
NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW! I demand Thedran be held accountable to speak for his actions and explain himself.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
Log entry: 1
14th, The Rotting, 1345
I dwell here in my hiding place, staring at the four walls as they close in around me. This Rust and worms culprit hasn't contacted my man yet, seems payment was merely a ruse to have every wannabe assassin take a pop at me. They will learn quickly that successful assassins will demand payment or they will take there payment in blood. I will remain here in the limited capicity and let our new lieutenant dominate the Hounds for a while.
It is good to see that Berlance, Wenthel, and Dalley have dealt swiftly with this damned thug that has plagued our good citizens. I will see to it that once I leave hiding they be awarded for there actions. Ten grand three ways though isn't much each, I'm sure though that I can arrange something with the Commander in the way of a better reward than the posted bounty. Which now leads me to a paladin upstart.
Tomar, who has been accused of murder committed in Beregost. It seems he wishes to cause even more trouble by settle this accusation with a 'honourable' duel. He will do nothing of the kind. His antics have began stirring the pot and causing trouble, though since it was an act committed in Beregost it is to be delt with by those Temple totties. He now wishes to give himself authority and be a 'legal defender' to someone who has no civil rights.
This man has now committed criminal acts of impersonation of an official, suspected murder and intent to cause civil unrest with an unlawful duel. Since this moron is one of those retarded Radiant Heart cock gobblers and is meant to be an ally I'll have to handle this one diplomatically. Pain in my arse.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 2
19th, The Rotting, 1345
Today was full of tomfoolery brought about by a pile of mushrooms. From the stories I got from all those involved I conclude that these are the events that happened.
Hounds Wenthal and Dalley were cooking a meal while in camp along the trade route. The meal was that of chilli with herb and mushrooms. The mushrooms are to be said to be picked from out side our boarders in the Wood of Sharp Teeth. These are apparently the same mushrooms the gnome in Beregost collects and uses in his recipes. The mushrooms have mind affecting properties.
Zerris Keilsparn, the man I had endorsed to be our new shipwright met with my hounds and tasted this chilli. All three men became intoxicated by the drugging affects. This resulted in Zerris casting a spell on Ivan and shrinking him down to the size of a hin. The spell chucker then morphed himself into a golem, threw Kert into a tree and chased after Ivan in pursuit of a randy nature. Que Nortons Bastard, Thedran, who resolved the situation lightly, as he recalls, with the drugged Zerris.
Apparently, later Zerris followed Thedran with ill intent, which lead the situation already reported on.
I now have two men in the cells awaiting punishment. For attacking the Flaming Fist both men should recieve the standard branding of banishment and thrown from the citadel gates. Zerris was identified as using necromancy and will receive a second branding so all will know he is a foul specimen. I have torn up my endorsement.
Armsmen Wenthal and Dalley have received double shifts for there disgrace of the hounds. I showed them kindness since it was an accident, if there is a repeat incident, both men will be flogged.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 3
30th, The Rotting, 1345
The ball never stops rolling, I should retire, I'm getting too old for this.
The MVTC have rubbed the Commander in the wrong way, poaching mercenaries off our door step and then filtering gold out of Baldur's Gate and into Nashkel. In due course we will inform the palace of this 'threat' but first I am to investigate a ghost of the past.
Kierran, don't know his last name but the Commander believes it to be Nevar. A man sentenced to death yet was poisoned before the day of his execution. This happened some time ago, before I was in the service of the Duke. I will need to dig through the old archives, the commander assures me there should be a report on this criminal. This will not be the only digging I do, once I find the shallow grave of this Kierran I have to exhume any remains from it.
If the commanders fears prove to be valid then this is all we will need to drive the MVTC from our city. If not I will follow up the assassination case with there company, but I will cross that bridge if or when I come to it.
The pain in my ass I call Ivan Wenthal has caused me much aggravation, and he had better hope he is dead for when I get him back I will do worse to him than the underdark scum could ever dream of. This ex-armsman has always had an attitude problem which I continued to over look since he is a commissioned troop. His 'discontent' for orc bloods caused some trouble, which Corporal Berlance skilfully settled.
Wenthel came into my scope for a second time after that damned mushroom fiasco and I ordered him to be flogged. He seemed to do a disappearing act soon after this yet still managed to file reports. As an 'attempt' to win me over he disobeyed Corporal Fentins direct orders, left his post unaccompanied by another Fist and captured to Drow. Two Drow that he brought through the city and placed in a cell! For that stunt I will have the nobility up my ass for the next decade. Drow brought into the city by a Flaming Fist solider, a hound.
That mess was quickly sorted and both Drow executed swiftly. It has come to light though that the two heads of these drow bitches has been taken from my wall. How someone managed to get past the two sentries and through the locked tower to get to the heads is beyond me, someone of considerable skill would have had to pull that off. When I find out who slipped up there will be hell to pay.
It was Kaltya, the mate of Grah'Thok, that told me Wethal had be captured by four underdark inhabitants. She makes my dwarfy sense tingle, but I have her in my noose. She already vouched to me that she would keep her mate in-line. I know that the Grah'Thok tribe is in alliance with the drow and there are plans for them to attack the Ironfaars. I have been commanded to pluck this 'thorn' from our side but I am going to wait. Wait until they make the first attack. When we crush this orc tribe and drow insurrection I will give the Tolerance is Treason a breathe of life again and add orc bloods to the poster. Eventually my dream of an orc free sword coast will be a reality. I fecking hate orcs!
The 'legacy' of Wenthal does not end there, oh no. Seems that everyone and there mother knows about his capture and that there are a dozen 'rescue' parties who want the challenge. Catam came to me first about an independent search for my hound, he spoke to me saying that the outlaw Randallona Armstrong and Kaltya where going to delve into those caverns to find him. I don't expect him to return.
I now have a report from armsman Murdan that Tomar, Siomer, Rhys and Tyressen are planning as rescue attempt. That damn meddling Tomar, thinks he's an unlimited authority, has the stench of the traitor Cross about him. It seems that the Radiant Heart ignored my diplomatic letter about him. He has now twisted the screw as far as it will go, if I hear that he steps out of line again I will charge him like any other criminal and disregard any affiliation he has with our allies.
I have my top man Sonny, a damned cursed blood, delving into the darkness again. It cost me a hundred thousand coins this time for his services but he has never failed me and I know he is well versed with the Drow. Apparently he has strong connections to the Charnag Maelthra. I will get my hound back, there is no doubt in that. He has additional orders to ensure that the Charnag Maelthra are aware that the 'unwashed' scum are coming there way. Hopefully, they will enslave all these gits and save me the hassle.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 4
2nd, Deepwinter, 1346
Sonny, returned empty handed, a first for him to fail a task but he is like the rest of us, getting old. Being the honest and honourable sort he gave me my coin back minus the cost for his supplies to get down there.
Private note: Deal with the Armsman.
But enough of yesterday, today I woke up in a tavern in Beregost. I don't remember leaving Baldurs Gate but whatever I was drinking I had obviously had too much. The walk back with a hangover wasn't fun and it worsened when I ran into Coporal Eburay, again off duty. That lazy sod is always off duty, don't think I have ever come across him wearing the uniform. He is now well aware of my feeling on the matter.
What made my day even worse was that he was accompanied by that ejit Kel. Damn outlaw dared to speak ill of me, then good old Myhrun came plodding down the pathway. After a little to and fro of wits, obviously he was no match for my 'experience' Myhrun brought about the information that this outlaw scum bag was robbing decent folk on the trade way with the aid of Gareut. Well I couldn't let that stand so it was time for Kel to take a flying lesson.
Corporal Eburay was ordered to take him in hand, but the slippery bugger made a run for it. Unfortunately, for Kel the old school team of Myhrun and Rocshanks was on his tail. He was quickly captured trying to flee through the Cloakwood Forest. I had him shackled by the arms and legs and dragged back to the cliff edge at the lionsway. I can state for the record that Kel can't fly.
However, we do believe he survived the fall and may be washed up further ashore. Myhrun has advised me that tarring and feathering him next time may improve his flight capabilities.
On that note we did encounter the banished thing known as Miss Armstrong, call it's self the beast. An appropriate name, at least it doesn't delude it's self. I had mistakenly thought it had been banished from all of the Dukes lands, but now on reading Grunga's statement I see I read it wrongly. Good thing I over looked it, and let the thing pass. Seemed to be an old acquaintance of Myhrun and is how I heard of how that mangled man came to be.
From the pieces I picked up, it was once a man called Randal who had a love affair with Myhrun. I never knew the mage was a poofter, but it sort of makes sense now. Whatever happened lead to Myhrun cutting off Randals balls and the man went mental in the head. Thinks its a woman now. Don't think that will be the last we hear of it, not now since it knows Myhrun is about. Myhrun may be in danger, we will have to watch this outlawed creature.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 5
3rd, Deepwinter, 1346
The lack of discipline in the ranks disgusts me.
I eventually caught up with Armsman Wenthal. He received ten lashings which he took without sobbing like a little girl. Though he was a mouthy git about it so he is now swimming to daggerford. I do not expect to see him for some time, this should give him time to reflect and think about his attitude. He has no life lines left, if he steps out of line again he will be discharged from the service.
Armsman Murdan has been on his period today and kicking about like a little bitch. He has gone from being a promising recruit to an insubordinate throne in my side. I took him aside and put him through the first section of his training. I am happy he now knows the manual and the basics. Corporal Fentin and Corporal Eburay will oversee his ability on the field and he will report to either of them for patrols. If they are not around he will fall into guard patrol like every other armsman.
I do not expect another 'complaint' from him again nor do I expect a breach of orders. Like Wenthal he has no life lines and will be discharged for another insubordinate action.
Corporal Berlance has a short temper that is becoming a problem. If spoke to me as an equal today before realising his mistake.
Myrun has advised me that it would be of use to organise a bootcamp and gather the men for drills. I will start this soon, it has now become my responsibility again to train all these men and put them in there places. When they have all been fully trained and am am satisfied that they can be considered 'brothers in arms' I will promote the most promising to Drill Sergeant and they will be responsible for carrying on the drills.
I neglected in my last log to include the assaults committed by Layana and Tyressen. Many reports have come in about them and it came to light that they murdered the girl who had previously informed us of these assaults. I had seen fit to banish these trouble makers and make the ring leader Layana a branded outlaw. Under the advise of Myhun we lowered the punishment. The woman was fined 5000 coins and banished for a year, her lapdog was fine 1500 coin and also banished. Not long after there release, another report has come in about these gits and how they have gone right back to attacking citizens on the tradeway again.
I won't be listening to Myhun's advise on punishments again. I show them mercy in punishment and they throw that back in my face. They will be caught again and put to death like the scum they are!
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log Entry: 6
9th, Deepwinter, 1346
I have taken the liberty to conscript a boy who's father I knew. Federico Antonio Salvatore was a good man and served with me in Chult, may his soul rest in peace. The apple, however, has fallen far from the tree. His eldest son is a disgrace to his good name. I found his son locked away in our cells ranting and raving about being locked up for having a cup. Jasper tells me he was drunk and commiting lude acts to any and all women in the vicinity. When the armsman went to arrest him, he lashed out and tried to attack him with the said cup. Jasper considered it a 'dangerous weapon' in his hands, disarmed him and threw his sorry hide in a cell.
For any crime like this he would have been fined and given some jail time, but if this is the eldest then he must be the bread winner for the Salvatore family, a pitiful excuse for one at that. I have done him a favour, I gave him two choices, either join the Duke's service, regain the honourable name of his father and provide food for the family table. Or sit and rot in our cells untill he cold and dead. He choose wisely, though the fact he believed he'd rot in a cell for the rest of his days is laughable. Another numpty!
I will keep an eye on him and expect the men will give him a hard time. My hounds don't like scum.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log Entry 7:
14th, Deepwinter, 1346
I have searched through my old reports and I finally come across what I was looking for.
~ Report 28th, Summertide, 1345 ~
I now believe that they are back. There have been two incidents.
The first was while I was out on guard with Armsman Wenthal. We were alerted of hellspawn on the coast way by the Friendly Arm Inn. We quickly made short work of them and secured the area. It wasn't until an old hag had appeared on the scene that my suspicions grew stronger. I stood back and listened to her riddles as the Armsman and the surrounding mob bombarded with questions. Her answers did not make sense to any of them, except myself I believe. She spoke of what had previously happened, small details in her riddles hit home.
What struck me with fear was that she claimed they were back seeking for something or someone. I ventured back to the original location of were it had happened, there was little there except for the occasional orc. What was I excpecting to find? This had happened many moons ago, I was still a sergeant at the time.
The second incident occurred when I went to inspect the guard at Wyrms crossing. Not long into Wenthal's verbal report did I hear, as it were, a noise of thunder as the earth beneath my feet shook and a portal opened above the camp-fire. I saw the bellowing of fire and brimstone, and I looked and behold amongst the demonic beasts a crimson monstrosity and death followed with him. The carnage of battle is foggy in my mind, but I do remember that that what ever bellowed first from the gateway to hell sought me out first. I would have overlooked this if I had not been the furtherest away from the portal.
I fear that there is a connection. What if this hag was truthful and these things are back for someone? What if the last attack was centred directly on me... are they after me? If they are, is it vengeance for there champion?
I spoke with Commander Crownsilver of my fears, if it is indeed true I am a danger to the populace of Baldurs Gate and the lives of the Grand Dukes. We considered many options, and sought help from those who may aid us. In the end we arrived in Beregost and sat council with Myhun. If they are tracking me, he believes that it may be a scry. The castle is warded against such so my current orders are not to step beyond the entrance until otherwise ordered.
I haven't slept, the horrors of my mind keeps me awake. There are too many question, none of which I have answers for.
This echoes of Beren Cross, he was chased by demon spawn across the coast. He tried taking the fight to them and it corrupted his soul and nature. That very corruption nearly took the commander from our life's. I fell to Berens blade too, what if it corrupted me?
We still have that stone he found in our possession, what if it is that that they seek?
Is there a connection between myself, Berens corruption, these demons and the stone?
But what fills me with dread is, what if Myhun is wrong?
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry 8:
16th, The Claw of Winter, 1346
I read over my last entry and feel much the fool. Since that day to this one nothing has befallen me. No more demon encounters, the bad dreams have dissipated and my fears have not come to be. My illness has faded and I have been on active duty for weeks. I'll close the chapter on this for now.
The southern roads have turned into a hive of insanity and no matter how I attempt to bring order to it, I ultimately fail. My reputation, that I have spent some considerable time achieving, seems pointless in the face of these crazed lunatics that I come across these days. A dirty little thief attempted to pick my pocket while out hunting for a necromancer. I proceeded to beat the crap out of the hin and pin his sorry ass to a tree.
On the trail of the necromancer I caught up with him in the Cloakwoods accompanied by a horned creature and what I considered to be a gathering of evil cultists. I put all twelve of these cultists into a shallow swampy grave. I hoped this would be the end of these local reports of undead and demons in the woods but I have been proven wrong. It seems these cultists are still active. I waste my time on them.
The ongoing problem with the pirates continue to plague my men, they attack them then run south. When I use old proven methods to catch them, it proves as it has always done a successful method. But keeping them, and further punishing them thats the issue. I can only assume they have ties to those in high positions, how else can they evade the death penatly that would be given so unbiasedly to anyone else. I no longer care to proceed on these brigards, if the establishment wishes for them to run wild then so be it. I wash my hands of it.
My efforts now lay in the north. No other hound has yet reported on missions for treasures in the northern mountains. I have spent the last eight days at a temporary outpost amoung the ruins at the Trollclaw Ford. I have become heavily interested in the region of late since I uncovered a towershield that surpasses the quality craftmanship of my own standard equipment. Truely a relic of an age long past.
An age I have been researching, with the help of a book from Candlekeep. Volo's Guide to the Sword Coast, it tells tales of the area. I take an extract from the tome.
The most recent settlers at the Ford were the High Helms, a veteran
adventuring band. A dozen strong, they rebuilt a villa into a fortified hold
and held out against the trolls for three full seasons until someone
slew them and shattered their tower with an explosive spell blast seen
from miles away. Their treasure still lies in their fallen tower, guarded by
their undead bones and possibly by whoever or whatever slew them.
This could explain why the "now dead troll" carried such a relic I retain in my possession. My search for information continues, I must know who these High Helms were and what slew them. If that wrecked tower does indeed hold treasures, then they must be reclaimed for the Flaming Fist.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry 9:
28th, The Claw of Winter, 1346
I thought I could close the chapter on these demons, it appears not. They have been busy elsewhere. On a personal errand to resupply my potions of heal at Candlekeep* I ran into our Weave liaison Charraj who seemed a bit jumpy on it. After some discussion it came to light that a girl named Scarlet was being hunted by demons herself. Charraj attempted to scry the girl and during that a Demon prince appeared and swore to hunt him down. Understandable why the boy is jumpy.
I put it to him, however, that it is better to die on his feet than live on his knee's. Turn his fear into a drive and face this demon head on. In our conversation, I discovered that demon can not be killed on our mortal plane. Instead when they are vanquished they return to there own plane of existence. They only manner in which to fight them is thusly.
First you draw a pentagram on the floor of a sacred temple that is sanctified. This gives double the protection against the demon; you then open a 'gate' through arcane chants and call forth the demon with it true name. Once in the circle it is then a case of casting Trap the Soul and having a soul gem of adequate power. Charraj has preformed this ritual before and used a considerably valuable soul gem, Ametrine. He then gave the entrapped demon to a celestial being.
This is not the only account of demon issues I got this week. I eventually met up with the Chieftain of Clan Ironfaar. We had some aged treaties to discuss and a possible re-adjustment of our ties. Our conversation never lead to this subject, unfortunately, yet I was granted access to their Stronghold so there is a possibility to discuss details another time. During a few ales and tales of heroics the cheiftain spoke of an Orc filled island that the Ironfaar stormed along with Sir Jonas and Saint Merielle amongst others.
The clan crushed these orcs and demons without hassle, yet their chief Korgoth has been having nightmare ever since, similar to my own. This can not be a coincidence. He fears for his clan above all else, I have never seen an Ironfaar Chief weep before nor have I slapped one until that day. As I left the hold he showed his gratitude that I had remained a true friend to the clan and asked of me that if ever something would to happen to him that I would continue to protect the clan. As my honour binds me, I gave him my word.
Now to recent events, that are unrelated to these demons. As I sat writing this report and enjoying a meal at the Friendly Arm Inn, I was interrupted by a young helmite female. From what I can gather Gareut must have tried to attack her or Randy in the rooms upstairs. For when I saw him he was beaten within an inch of his life and bond by the hands and feet. The Friendly Arm Inn was glad to get rid of the pest but put the custody of the pirate into Randy and the Helmite's hands. They took him to Jonas and handed him to the Order and his authority.
This became a game of follow the leader until eventually we got back to the castle and Jonas handed the pirate to me and gave me a letter. The letter is now evidence and files with the criminal report. Additionally he passed me this evil dagger which I had sealed in a strong box and sent to Moruene, as requested by Jonas, to be warded.
I handled this matter in the same fashion that the Beren Cross case was handled. In that case Beren had been corrupted by the evil of a demonic stone. Beren was later put to death and the stone remains locked away with our other sealed and protected artefacts.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Case: Assassination of Sir Jonas Rokranon.
Luppi Gallows has been released due to insignificant evidence, eye witnesses stating that she was in the wrong place at the wrong time won't suffice for this delicate investigation. Two hins, however, are considered to be the culprit of the assassination. It's time to start rounding them up and squeezing the hin populace for information.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
~Orders~
Sergeant Ironfaar, you will assist me in tracting down Roxanne Elverquist and bringing her back to the castle. If she is uncooperative bring her in the hard way then ensure she knows the following conditions.
She either serves two years in Chult, or she hands in her keys, tabbard and never darkens this Castle again!
~Orders~
Freesword Lightbringer report to me ASAP.
18th, The Fading, 1345
I have been informed by several of the citizens of the citadel that Bhaalist activity has been on the increase. On returning from Beregost I encountered a red haired, full bearded human and his gay partner who stopped me on the trade route to report an incidence of a Bhaal attack. I was told by the red haired man that his lover was killed and two of our own were also slain, apparently one of our human sergeants (perhaps Sergeant Harrow?).
I escorted them to safety within the farmlands and then returned to the scene of the attack, here I came across miss Selis and the paladin bum boys of the Radient Heart. They told me of a Bhaalist attack and that a scum ridden tiefling had been their victim. The demon blood had been taken to the city to be revived so I returned to the city, accompanied with the others, to question the ball bag.
When we just reached just outside the gate at Wyrms Crossing there was a bustle of confusion, from what I gather these Bhaalist had been seen further down the trade way. Instead of talking with demon blood I made haste down the trade way I lost sight of of the Radiant stool pushers who fell behind. I encountered nothing on the roads that day.
This morn I came across two elves who, in a fit of panic, informed me that they had fled from a battle involving the Heart and the cultists. On arrival at the location, these elves showed me, there were signs of battle but neither friend nor foe to be found.
On deduction I believe there may be skirmishing occurring with the Bhaalist cultists and the Radiant Heart. We may get a request from Sir Rokranon seeking aid.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
19th, The Fading, 1345
The new fleet of troops that I gave the grace of wearing the colours have showed up myself and the sergeants with their incompetence, so under the orders of Colonel Crownsilver I have been re-educating them and making examples.
Initiate Moonbeam was the fist, her lack to address me of my proper rank earned her a crack in the ribs. Sergeant Ironfaar has put her under medical since her fall in battle to two dwarven bandits. She has made the outfit look bad, though with any luck she will manage to drag in her attackers at some point and have them put to death. If she manages to do this I will consider her a freesword and ready to be assigned to a company.
Initiate Eburay has received ten lashes for dereliction of duty. I have not seen fit to dishonourably discharge him as he is a strong troop with great potential. However, he is undisciplined and he will need to be moulded into a upstanding fist troop.
As of today Freesword Lightbringer is no longer my pet project as it has been joked about. The lad knows the routine, even though he is an empty head and will often speak mindless drivel. Since he's now a freesword it is now up to him to impress the company commanders and get himself assigned to either guardsman or watchman. I would recommend him on the lines as a guardsman.
Colour Sergeant Rocshanks
Second Company
Crownsilver Eulogy
Today is a sad day, today we morn the passing of Colonel Crownsliver. Our commander may have meant something to each and every one of you, personally, he was my friend. He was a great man and always had some great advice ready for me. He had this trait where he could always turn a dull party around.
Justin was such a character. He knew how to be serious at times and he also knew when to joke around. As a friend he was also very dear. He always found time to be with his friends. He was a very loyal and kind friend. He was also very polite; he was the kind of man who always opened doors for ladies.
I know our Commander left lots of things undone and others that he never had a chance to start. But I promise I will continue what he has started and hopefully fulfill his dreams for him. This is just my small way of saying thank you for everything he did for me.
Let’s just be thankful for all the special moments that our commander has left us. And with that, I hope that Justin will continue to live on within our hearts and minds.
For Gold and Glory.
16th, Leaffall, 1345
On reading watchman Lightbringers reports, which now appear to have gone astray, it had been apparent that he had been attacked on duty by a druid. I found the watchman stationed by Wryms Crossing and he took me to the location of the inncident, which had only happened that morning. We set up post by the bridge and waited for the assailant. Not long into the watch an old friend from the druid came to me with the assailant in question. We spoke under terms of parlay which I informed them was fragile and on thin ice.
Uriel, the druid in question, addressed me and told me of what happened. And confirmed the story the trooper had written, except the fact that Lightbringer had used a spell of dark powers, some sort of summoning spell or some such. I have no knowledge of it, but they called it vampiric feast I believe.
During the conversation I had to arrest watchman Lightbringer for his disorderly conduct and his disobedience of a direct order. Corporal Eburay escorted him to the Castle cells. I continued to talk with the druid leader, and placed him under arrest for is incident which was a result of his carelessness.
For the record Watchman Lightbringer conducted himself with honour through out his duty. If Uriel had have agreed to be searched then none of this would have occured. As it stands Uriel believes he is above the law, during the conversation be brought up our alliance agreement believing that this would allow him to forego such searches that we do. The Watchman was searching everyone and did not pick him out as an individual. Running away is a direct breach of the law, the druid would have merely been fined for such disobedience. However, he returned to threaten our troop and attacked.
I arrested Uriel for these crime but he would not come peacefully and claimed that I had no logic. He refused many time after I urged him not to let this break into bloodshed. He attempted to leave the area and I detained him, this is when he became hostile and his dragon attacked me. Battle commenced and I was to fight him and at least 7 of his druids. They failed to drop me in battle, but the battle was not going to go my way so I called for a retreat.
I informed the Lord Paymaster General of what happened. We brought Lightbringer before him to answer for his act of what I can only define as heracy. He spoke the same story as he did to me, yet this time including the arts of black magic. The Duke stripped him of his colours and was to cast him from the citadel. It seems the Fist was everything to Lightbringer and instead of taking his punishment like a man he pussied out. He had to use lethal force to put him down.
Lightbringer was my apprentice, I had forged him into a 'usuable' troop after so many rough edges with him. He tarnished our lord reputation, has smeared the fist in necromancy scandle and has disgraced and dishonoured me. He was my man, but now no longer. For this atrocities his body is now impaled on the gate for all to see.
In the chaos it appears that safety measures have teleported the Duke and his close constituencies to Daggerford. With our company Captain situated in Amn I have been 'promoted' for lack of a better word to Captain. This is unheard of, a Dwarf Captain in the Flaming Fist, risen from the ranks, I'll never hear the end of it from first company.
The Duke won't be back for three days... bugger!
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
19th, Leaffall, 1345
After reading Sergeant Ironfaar's report, I had to confirm the story for myself. Our old tree hugger friend is indeed possessed. It is obvious that this possession is responsible for the thirteen murders at the bridge. If it was anyone else, they would not have been exercised and would have been put to the sword by now, as justice would have it.
Justice demands that we show our ally no favouritism, we must keep face in all of this. Allowing his friends to exercise him will go in our favour, we have shown him mercy and give him his peace. Now we must punish him, I have put him on death row for his crimes of murder.
As for Uriel, I have had time to calm myself from his lack of civil obedience to his own ally. It boils my blood to think of his egotistical actions yet I know the importance of him and his followers. I have thought long and hard about this and I suggest a fair ultimatum.
We will allow the alliance to stand and we will not press any charges if he is willing to accept all guilt, publicly apologise for his unlawful actions and stand down as the leader of the druid circle. If not, we should nullify the alliance with them, banish them from our Citadel and Outlaw them.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
19th, Leaffall, 1345
Suggest, Captain Rocshanks, we await the Duke's return before taking any truly drastic action. We wouldn't want to appear "undiplomatic" would we? I fear this may be seen as a short comming by his Grace upon his return.
Respectfuly
-Guthrun, First Company.
19th, Leaffall, 1345
Diplomacy before Justice, Gythrun? This is my recommendation to the Duke for when he returns, you are in the same position to make your own. How would you handle the situation?
You know that the leader of the druids refused three times to return to the castle to resolve this business with me and instead attacked the Flaming Fist COLOURS. An attack on the Colours as you very well know is a declaration of war.
I do, however, believe that since this Uriel is a man of influence the Duke will do what he has done before. I would assume that there will be a hearing so that everyone who was there will put there version of the story forward. If this does indeed happen I will ensure that our citizen Narasida Zakine is there.
-Rocshanks, Second Company
2nd, The Rotting, 1345
My hatred for this Uriel bastard grows deeper, today I final abandoned my desk and all the damn paperwork and went walk about. It was Narasida Zakine that had told me there was a Druid Circle encampment near to the location where I had been attacked. She had also told me that Corporal Ebruray was aware of its location as well. I am not familiar with it, nor do I know where it is so I sought it out assuming it may be in the south western corner of the coast.
I may have been unable to find the location, but I did manage the impossible. I scared Sergeant Ironfaar, an old fart like me managed to crop out of the passing and startled her. Now if only I could do that to all of our enemies. I ceased my search I accompanied the Sergeant on patrol. Interesting little day, reminded me what it was like to be a grunt again.
On the return we encountered that warmonger Uriel. The scene went without incident, though I ordered the cocky git of the lords land until he is summoned to account for his crimes. I now have orders for the troops to report how many times this Uriel disobeys that order. His arrogance has no bounds, heha the audacity to say we attacked first, yet his lie is unconvincing. He calls us warmongers and slanders even his own treaty say it should be annulled. If his own druid gathering had have been there they would have turned on him themselves to save their honour.
Obviously, now I have returned to my paper work. The current assignments I have issued.
Sergeant Ironfaar is to under take Drill Sergeant duties and kick the fresh meat into shape. After speaking with her the latest recruits have not reported to her for training. Those initiates and the grunts are now in her command, god have mercy on them.
Corporal Eburay is still investigating this Master's Rune cult. I believe this gathering of assassins and necromancers may have connections to the necromancer that was within the ranks of the Weave. Since that Corporal was made aware of my concerns I may place him with the position of Weave Diplomat. We need a replacement after all.
For all general soldiery, they have been informed of the illegal Chointhar river crossings and to deal with it as commanded. I believe this could raise our profile on the current criminal underground. A list of usual suspects may be of use to us at later dates.
Lastly there are grumblings with the higher ranked officers, the paymasters shilling that they make from patrols is only fit for the grunts. It is grunt work after all. Some have not been paid an officers wage in months and it is mere loyalty that they continue to serve. In fear there may be mutiny if it continues, or we may see the most loyal turn to corruption for the prospect of coin. I would urge the superior command to consider this with great judgement.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
12th, The Rotting, 1345
The lunatic being held in our cells is a man called Davoren Ignacious Hellsheart the Third. As I stretched my legs and took in some air on the Wyrms Crossing an old coot approached me and informed me that he was ready for duty as a new initiate. I had no idea who this old codger was and had watchman Fentin identify him.
It came to light that this was the man who had helped catch the Red Wizard the other day and had the good word of Sir Justin Crownsilver to be recruited into the ranks. I thought nothing of it and during his recruitment, against my better judgement, I skipped his character test and began to swear him in. It was moment later that Watchman Fentin disrupted the initiation.
Fentin wished my presence in private so I ordered Davoren to stay in the room and then spoke with Fentin in the corridor. He passed me the report made by the garrison regarding the old man I was recruiting. As I took in this knowledge the culprit left the room and confirmed he was indeed a warlock. At that moment security was in breach, I could not rule out an assassination attempt on the Duke... Not after Lightbringers stunt... and had the warlock beaten down. Gods, what if there was another assassination attempt! I would think the Duke is sick of Daggerford.
We dragged the warlocks unconscious body to the cells and have left him there. As I was writing this report the Commander sought me out and we have just spoken with the prisoner. He acts mad, speaking in riddles and to himself. Though before this he did seem to have very clear moments of judgement so I feel that this is just an "act".
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
17th, The Rotting, 1345
It's been a few days since the (person) waving contest with that arse fiend Norton. It turned out that I'm a damn tripod and Nortons a wee sissy pansy with girly arms. I had a conversation with some of the lads and we all agree that Norton, looks like a quare and sounds like a quare. So he's probably a quare. There has also been a motivational song, well its more like a chant considering how my hounds sing, that I has been going around my hounds for a couple of days. It's very much like the childrens game eye spy but instead they sing out what they see.
From what I can grasp one lad sings "I see a" then names what he see's then this is followed with the line "Do you see a" and repeats the thing that he saw. The rest of them chime in and sing "Yes, we see a" again naming the item then they all sing "What do you see" and the person who sang at the start calls out a name of one of the other men. Well when I walked out into the yard I heard one of the ensigns sing.
"I see a Sword, do you see a Sword?" "Yes we see a Sword! What do you see?"and the cocky ensign shouts "Captain Rocshanks". Well I couldn't drop the ball on my lads, would have been bad for moral. Looking to my left I saw that quare Norton so I sang. "I see a bitch, do you see a Bitch?" but then nothing but silence came from the men.
They have all been given double shifts.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
27th, The Rotting, 1345
Perversion of the law most foul! Today I watched as First Company Thedran, one of Norton's men, arrested miss Alison Schlump for blasphemy toward helm. She jested that her and her husband have a rump on the alter. On commanding her to disarm she protested. Now if she had have protested to one of my hounds, my hound would have smashed her in the teeth and dragged her to a cell, however, Thedran attempted it 'peacefully'.
This lead Sir Jonas Rokranon into the middle of this heated exchange. Under whispered word, Thedran stripped off his colours and sat by the fire and Alison walked free. This is grievous abuse of power!
NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW! I demand Thedran be held accountable to speak for his actions and explain himself.
Captain Rocshanks
Second Company
Log entry: 1
14th, The Rotting, 1345
I dwell here in my hiding place, staring at the four walls as they close in around me. This Rust and worms culprit hasn't contacted my man yet, seems payment was merely a ruse to have every wannabe assassin take a pop at me. They will learn quickly that successful assassins will demand payment or they will take there payment in blood. I will remain here in the limited capicity and let our new lieutenant dominate the Hounds for a while.
It is good to see that Berlance, Wenthel, and Dalley have dealt swiftly with this damned thug that has plagued our good citizens. I will see to it that once I leave hiding they be awarded for there actions. Ten grand three ways though isn't much each, I'm sure though that I can arrange something with the Commander in the way of a better reward than the posted bounty. Which now leads me to a paladin upstart.
Tomar, who has been accused of murder committed in Beregost. It seems he wishes to cause even more trouble by settle this accusation with a 'honourable' duel. He will do nothing of the kind. His antics have began stirring the pot and causing trouble, though since it was an act committed in Beregost it is to be delt with by those Temple totties. He now wishes to give himself authority and be a 'legal defender' to someone who has no civil rights.
This man has now committed criminal acts of impersonation of an official, suspected murder and intent to cause civil unrest with an unlawful duel. Since this moron is one of those retarded Radiant Heart cock gobblers and is meant to be an ally I'll have to handle this one diplomatically. Pain in my arse.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 2
19th, The Rotting, 1345
Today was full of tomfoolery brought about by a pile of mushrooms. From the stories I got from all those involved I conclude that these are the events that happened.
Hounds Wenthal and Dalley were cooking a meal while in camp along the trade route. The meal was that of chilli with herb and mushrooms. The mushrooms are to be said to be picked from out side our boarders in the Wood of Sharp Teeth. These are apparently the same mushrooms the gnome in Beregost collects and uses in his recipes. The mushrooms have mind affecting properties.
Zerris Keilsparn, the man I had endorsed to be our new shipwright met with my hounds and tasted this chilli. All three men became intoxicated by the drugging affects. This resulted in Zerris casting a spell on Ivan and shrinking him down to the size of a hin. The spell chucker then morphed himself into a golem, threw Kert into a tree and chased after Ivan in pursuit of a randy nature. Que Nortons Bastard, Thedran, who resolved the situation lightly, as he recalls, with the drugged Zerris.
Apparently, later Zerris followed Thedran with ill intent, which lead the situation already reported on.
I now have two men in the cells awaiting punishment. For attacking the Flaming Fist both men should recieve the standard branding of banishment and thrown from the citadel gates. Zerris was identified as using necromancy and will receive a second branding so all will know he is a foul specimen. I have torn up my endorsement.
Armsmen Wenthal and Dalley have received double shifts for there disgrace of the hounds. I showed them kindness since it was an accident, if there is a repeat incident, both men will be flogged.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 3
30th, The Rotting, 1345
The ball never stops rolling, I should retire, I'm getting too old for this.
The MVTC have rubbed the Commander in the wrong way, poaching mercenaries off our door step and then filtering gold out of Baldur's Gate and into Nashkel. In due course we will inform the palace of this 'threat' but first I am to investigate a ghost of the past.
Kierran, don't know his last name but the Commander believes it to be Nevar. A man sentenced to death yet was poisoned before the day of his execution. This happened some time ago, before I was in the service of the Duke. I will need to dig through the old archives, the commander assures me there should be a report on this criminal. This will not be the only digging I do, once I find the shallow grave of this Kierran I have to exhume any remains from it.
If the commanders fears prove to be valid then this is all we will need to drive the MVTC from our city. If not I will follow up the assassination case with there company, but I will cross that bridge if or when I come to it.
The pain in my ass I call Ivan Wenthal has caused me much aggravation, and he had better hope he is dead for when I get him back I will do worse to him than the underdark scum could ever dream of. This ex-armsman has always had an attitude problem which I continued to over look since he is a commissioned troop. His 'discontent' for orc bloods caused some trouble, which Corporal Berlance skilfully settled.
Wenthel came into my scope for a second time after that damned mushroom fiasco and I ordered him to be flogged. He seemed to do a disappearing act soon after this yet still managed to file reports. As an 'attempt' to win me over he disobeyed Corporal Fentins direct orders, left his post unaccompanied by another Fist and captured to Drow. Two Drow that he brought through the city and placed in a cell! For that stunt I will have the nobility up my ass for the next decade. Drow brought into the city by a Flaming Fist solider, a hound.
That mess was quickly sorted and both Drow executed swiftly. It has come to light though that the two heads of these drow bitches has been taken from my wall. How someone managed to get past the two sentries and through the locked tower to get to the heads is beyond me, someone of considerable skill would have had to pull that off. When I find out who slipped up there will be hell to pay.
It was Kaltya, the mate of Grah'Thok, that told me Wethal had be captured by four underdark inhabitants. She makes my dwarfy sense tingle, but I have her in my noose. She already vouched to me that she would keep her mate in-line. I know that the Grah'Thok tribe is in alliance with the drow and there are plans for them to attack the Ironfaars. I have been commanded to pluck this 'thorn' from our side but I am going to wait. Wait until they make the first attack. When we crush this orc tribe and drow insurrection I will give the Tolerance is Treason a breathe of life again and add orc bloods to the poster. Eventually my dream of an orc free sword coast will be a reality. I fecking hate orcs!
The 'legacy' of Wenthal does not end there, oh no. Seems that everyone and there mother knows about his capture and that there are a dozen 'rescue' parties who want the challenge. Catam came to me first about an independent search for my hound, he spoke to me saying that the outlaw Randallona Armstrong and Kaltya where going to delve into those caverns to find him. I don't expect him to return.
I now have a report from armsman Murdan that Tomar, Siomer, Rhys and Tyressen are planning as rescue attempt. That damn meddling Tomar, thinks he's an unlimited authority, has the stench of the traitor Cross about him. It seems that the Radiant Heart ignored my diplomatic letter about him. He has now twisted the screw as far as it will go, if I hear that he steps out of line again I will charge him like any other criminal and disregard any affiliation he has with our allies.
I have my top man Sonny, a damned cursed blood, delving into the darkness again. It cost me a hundred thousand coins this time for his services but he has never failed me and I know he is well versed with the Drow. Apparently he has strong connections to the Charnag Maelthra. I will get my hound back, there is no doubt in that. He has additional orders to ensure that the Charnag Maelthra are aware that the 'unwashed' scum are coming there way. Hopefully, they will enslave all these gits and save me the hassle.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 4
2nd, Deepwinter, 1346
Sonny, returned empty handed, a first for him to fail a task but he is like the rest of us, getting old. Being the honest and honourable sort he gave me my coin back minus the cost for his supplies to get down there.
Private note: Deal with the Armsman.
But enough of yesterday, today I woke up in a tavern in Beregost. I don't remember leaving Baldurs Gate but whatever I was drinking I had obviously had too much. The walk back with a hangover wasn't fun and it worsened when I ran into Coporal Eburay, again off duty. That lazy sod is always off duty, don't think I have ever come across him wearing the uniform. He is now well aware of my feeling on the matter.
What made my day even worse was that he was accompanied by that ejit Kel. Damn outlaw dared to speak ill of me, then good old Myhrun came plodding down the pathway. After a little to and fro of wits, obviously he was no match for my 'experience' Myhrun brought about the information that this outlaw scum bag was robbing decent folk on the trade way with the aid of Gareut. Well I couldn't let that stand so it was time for Kel to take a flying lesson.
Corporal Eburay was ordered to take him in hand, but the slippery bugger made a run for it. Unfortunately, for Kel the old school team of Myhrun and Rocshanks was on his tail. He was quickly captured trying to flee through the Cloakwood Forest. I had him shackled by the arms and legs and dragged back to the cliff edge at the lionsway. I can state for the record that Kel can't fly.
However, we do believe he survived the fall and may be washed up further ashore. Myhrun has advised me that tarring and feathering him next time may improve his flight capabilities.
On that note we did encounter the banished thing known as Miss Armstrong, call it's self the beast. An appropriate name, at least it doesn't delude it's self. I had mistakenly thought it had been banished from all of the Dukes lands, but now on reading Grunga's statement I see I read it wrongly. Good thing I over looked it, and let the thing pass. Seemed to be an old acquaintance of Myhrun and is how I heard of how that mangled man came to be.
From the pieces I picked up, it was once a man called Randal who had a love affair with Myhrun. I never knew the mage was a poofter, but it sort of makes sense now. Whatever happened lead to Myhrun cutting off Randals balls and the man went mental in the head. Thinks its a woman now. Don't think that will be the last we hear of it, not now since it knows Myhrun is about. Myhrun may be in danger, we will have to watch this outlawed creature.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry: 5
3rd, Deepwinter, 1346
The lack of discipline in the ranks disgusts me.
I eventually caught up with Armsman Wenthal. He received ten lashings which he took without sobbing like a little girl. Though he was a mouthy git about it so he is now swimming to daggerford. I do not expect to see him for some time, this should give him time to reflect and think about his attitude. He has no life lines left, if he steps out of line again he will be discharged from the service.
Armsman Murdan has been on his period today and kicking about like a little bitch. He has gone from being a promising recruit to an insubordinate throne in my side. I took him aside and put him through the first section of his training. I am happy he now knows the manual and the basics. Corporal Fentin and Corporal Eburay will oversee his ability on the field and he will report to either of them for patrols. If they are not around he will fall into guard patrol like every other armsman.
I do not expect another 'complaint' from him again nor do I expect a breach of orders. Like Wenthal he has no life lines and will be discharged for another insubordinate action.
Corporal Berlance has a short temper that is becoming a problem. If spoke to me as an equal today before realising his mistake.
Myrun has advised me that it would be of use to organise a bootcamp and gather the men for drills. I will start this soon, it has now become my responsibility again to train all these men and put them in there places. When they have all been fully trained and am am satisfied that they can be considered 'brothers in arms' I will promote the most promising to Drill Sergeant and they will be responsible for carrying on the drills.
I neglected in my last log to include the assaults committed by Layana and Tyressen. Many reports have come in about them and it came to light that they murdered the girl who had previously informed us of these assaults. I had seen fit to banish these trouble makers and make the ring leader Layana a branded outlaw. Under the advise of Myhun we lowered the punishment. The woman was fined 5000 coins and banished for a year, her lapdog was fine 1500 coin and also banished. Not long after there release, another report has come in about these gits and how they have gone right back to attacking citizens on the tradeway again.
I won't be listening to Myhun's advise on punishments again. I show them mercy in punishment and they throw that back in my face. They will be caught again and put to death like the scum they are!
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log Entry: 6
9th, Deepwinter, 1346
I have taken the liberty to conscript a boy who's father I knew. Federico Antonio Salvatore was a good man and served with me in Chult, may his soul rest in peace. The apple, however, has fallen far from the tree. His eldest son is a disgrace to his good name. I found his son locked away in our cells ranting and raving about being locked up for having a cup. Jasper tells me he was drunk and commiting lude acts to any and all women in the vicinity. When the armsman went to arrest him, he lashed out and tried to attack him with the said cup. Jasper considered it a 'dangerous weapon' in his hands, disarmed him and threw his sorry hide in a cell.
For any crime like this he would have been fined and given some jail time, but if this is the eldest then he must be the bread winner for the Salvatore family, a pitiful excuse for one at that. I have done him a favour, I gave him two choices, either join the Duke's service, regain the honourable name of his father and provide food for the family table. Or sit and rot in our cells untill he cold and dead. He choose wisely, though the fact he believed he'd rot in a cell for the rest of his days is laughable. Another numpty!
I will keep an eye on him and expect the men will give him a hard time. My hounds don't like scum.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log Entry 7:
14th, Deepwinter, 1346
I have searched through my old reports and I finally come across what I was looking for.
~ Report 28th, Summertide, 1345 ~
I now believe that they are back. There have been two incidents.
The first was while I was out on guard with Armsman Wenthal. We were alerted of hellspawn on the coast way by the Friendly Arm Inn. We quickly made short work of them and secured the area. It wasn't until an old hag had appeared on the scene that my suspicions grew stronger. I stood back and listened to her riddles as the Armsman and the surrounding mob bombarded with questions. Her answers did not make sense to any of them, except myself I believe. She spoke of what had previously happened, small details in her riddles hit home.
What struck me with fear was that she claimed they were back seeking for something or someone. I ventured back to the original location of were it had happened, there was little there except for the occasional orc. What was I excpecting to find? This had happened many moons ago, I was still a sergeant at the time.
The second incident occurred when I went to inspect the guard at Wyrms crossing. Not long into Wenthal's verbal report did I hear, as it were, a noise of thunder as the earth beneath my feet shook and a portal opened above the camp-fire. I saw the bellowing of fire and brimstone, and I looked and behold amongst the demonic beasts a crimson monstrosity and death followed with him. The carnage of battle is foggy in my mind, but I do remember that that what ever bellowed first from the gateway to hell sought me out first. I would have overlooked this if I had not been the furtherest away from the portal.
I fear that there is a connection. What if this hag was truthful and these things are back for someone? What if the last attack was centred directly on me... are they after me? If they are, is it vengeance for there champion?
I spoke with Commander Crownsilver of my fears, if it is indeed true I am a danger to the populace of Baldurs Gate and the lives of the Grand Dukes. We considered many options, and sought help from those who may aid us. In the end we arrived in Beregost and sat council with Myhun. If they are tracking me, he believes that it may be a scry. The castle is warded against such so my current orders are not to step beyond the entrance until otherwise ordered.
I haven't slept, the horrors of my mind keeps me awake. There are too many question, none of which I have answers for.
This echoes of Beren Cross, he was chased by demon spawn across the coast. He tried taking the fight to them and it corrupted his soul and nature. That very corruption nearly took the commander from our life's. I fell to Berens blade too, what if it corrupted me?
We still have that stone he found in our possession, what if it is that that they seek?
Is there a connection between myself, Berens corruption, these demons and the stone?
But what fills me with dread is, what if Myhun is wrong?
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry 8:
16th, The Claw of Winter, 1346
I read over my last entry and feel much the fool. Since that day to this one nothing has befallen me. No more demon encounters, the bad dreams have dissipated and my fears have not come to be. My illness has faded and I have been on active duty for weeks. I'll close the chapter on this for now.
The southern roads have turned into a hive of insanity and no matter how I attempt to bring order to it, I ultimately fail. My reputation, that I have spent some considerable time achieving, seems pointless in the face of these crazed lunatics that I come across these days. A dirty little thief attempted to pick my pocket while out hunting for a necromancer. I proceeded to beat the crap out of the hin and pin his sorry ass to a tree.
On the trail of the necromancer I caught up with him in the Cloakwoods accompanied by a horned creature and what I considered to be a gathering of evil cultists. I put all twelve of these cultists into a shallow swampy grave. I hoped this would be the end of these local reports of undead and demons in the woods but I have been proven wrong. It seems these cultists are still active. I waste my time on them.
The ongoing problem with the pirates continue to plague my men, they attack them then run south. When I use old proven methods to catch them, it proves as it has always done a successful method. But keeping them, and further punishing them thats the issue. I can only assume they have ties to those in high positions, how else can they evade the death penatly that would be given so unbiasedly to anyone else. I no longer care to proceed on these brigards, if the establishment wishes for them to run wild then so be it. I wash my hands of it.
My efforts now lay in the north. No other hound has yet reported on missions for treasures in the northern mountains. I have spent the last eight days at a temporary outpost amoung the ruins at the Trollclaw Ford. I have become heavily interested in the region of late since I uncovered a towershield that surpasses the quality craftmanship of my own standard equipment. Truely a relic of an age long past.
An age I have been researching, with the help of a book from Candlekeep. Volo's Guide to the Sword Coast, it tells tales of the area. I take an extract from the tome.
The most recent settlers at the Ford were the High Helms, a veteran
adventuring band. A dozen strong, they rebuilt a villa into a fortified hold
and held out against the trolls for three full seasons until someone
slew them and shattered their tower with an explosive spell blast seen
from miles away. Their treasure still lies in their fallen tower, guarded by
their undead bones and possibly by whoever or whatever slew them.
This could explain why the "now dead troll" carried such a relic I retain in my possession. My search for information continues, I must know who these High Helms were and what slew them. If that wrecked tower does indeed hold treasures, then they must be reclaimed for the Flaming Fist.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds
Log entry 9:
28th, The Claw of Winter, 1346
I thought I could close the chapter on these demons, it appears not. They have been busy elsewhere. On a personal errand to resupply my potions of heal at Candlekeep* I ran into our Weave liaison Charraj who seemed a bit jumpy on it. After some discussion it came to light that a girl named Scarlet was being hunted by demons herself. Charraj attempted to scry the girl and during that a Demon prince appeared and swore to hunt him down. Understandable why the boy is jumpy.
I put it to him, however, that it is better to die on his feet than live on his knee's. Turn his fear into a drive and face this demon head on. In our conversation, I discovered that demon can not be killed on our mortal plane. Instead when they are vanquished they return to there own plane of existence. They only manner in which to fight them is thusly.
First you draw a pentagram on the floor of a sacred temple that is sanctified. This gives double the protection against the demon; you then open a 'gate' through arcane chants and call forth the demon with it true name. Once in the circle it is then a case of casting Trap the Soul and having a soul gem of adequate power. Charraj has preformed this ritual before and used a considerably valuable soul gem, Ametrine. He then gave the entrapped demon to a celestial being.
This is not the only account of demon issues I got this week. I eventually met up with the Chieftain of Clan Ironfaar. We had some aged treaties to discuss and a possible re-adjustment of our ties. Our conversation never lead to this subject, unfortunately, yet I was granted access to their Stronghold so there is a possibility to discuss details another time. During a few ales and tales of heroics the cheiftain spoke of an Orc filled island that the Ironfaar stormed along with Sir Jonas and Saint Merielle amongst others.
The clan crushed these orcs and demons without hassle, yet their chief Korgoth has been having nightmare ever since, similar to my own. This can not be a coincidence. He fears for his clan above all else, I have never seen an Ironfaar Chief weep before nor have I slapped one until that day. As I left the hold he showed his gratitude that I had remained a true friend to the clan and asked of me that if ever something would to happen to him that I would continue to protect the clan. As my honour binds me, I gave him my word.
Now to recent events, that are unrelated to these demons. As I sat writing this report and enjoying a meal at the Friendly Arm Inn, I was interrupted by a young helmite female. From what I can gather Gareut must have tried to attack her or Randy in the rooms upstairs. For when I saw him he was beaten within an inch of his life and bond by the hands and feet. The Friendly Arm Inn was glad to get rid of the pest but put the custody of the pirate into Randy and the Helmite's hands. They took him to Jonas and handed him to the Order and his authority.
This became a game of follow the leader until eventually we got back to the castle and Jonas handed the pirate to me and gave me a letter. The letter is now evidence and files with the criminal report. Additionally he passed me this evil dagger which I had sealed in a strong box and sent to Moruene, as requested by Jonas, to be warded.
I handled this matter in the same fashion that the Beren Cross case was handled. In that case Beren had been corrupted by the evil of a demonic stone. Beren was later put to death and the stone remains locked away with our other sealed and protected artefacts.
Daaf Rocshanks, Captain of the Hounds