3. Recruit Sebastian Rusk's Redcloak Reports

Recruit Sebastian Rusk's Redcloak Reports


  • Redcloak Militia Incident Report

    Filed By: Recruit Sebastian Rusk
    Assigned By: Judge Chancey
    Date of Incident: 6th Day of the 9th Month
    Location: Norwick Devastation

    Subject:

    Investigation into suspected smuggling operations operating within the Norwick Devastation.

    By judge of Judge Chancey, I was assigned to investigate reports concerning possible smuggling activity occurring within the Devastation region. Accompanying me on patrol were the following individuals:

    Drusilla, local warrior
    Salina, local scout
    Zora, known as “Big Hair”
    Aelra, Priestess of Ilmater
    Frudoc the Carpenter
    Auli'i of the Rawlinswood
    Mivvy, Elven Archer
    Malachi, an Arcanist of sorts.

    Upon entering the region, the patrol encountered numerous giant ants within the hills. After a difficult engagement and successful defense against the creatures, we encountered a dwarf stationed in the area acting as a supposed lookout. Despite not knowing he was a lookout at this time. The dwarf proved evasive during questioning and appeared unwilling to cooperate. Suspecting involvement in illicit activity, I ordered our scouts to shadow the individual while the rest of the patrol feigned withdrawal from the area so as not to arouse suspicion.

    The scouts successfully tracked the dwarf to a cave system nearby. Upon entering, the patrol discovered evidence of occupation along with a written note indicating that certain materials had already been moved deeper into the cavern network. Further exploration led the group deeper into the Devastation caverns, where we encountered a man by the name of Marcel. Marcel appeared to have been taken prisoner by the smugglers operating within the tunnels. Marcel was released and the leader of the smugglers was incapacitated. The patrol engaged many smugglers and successfully captured this apparent dwarven leader of the operation. However, before proper extraction back to town could be completed, the leader was killed amidst escalating hostilities as increasing numbers of dwarven smugglers converged upon our position and the spell he was under having worn off. Due to the growing threat and risk of casualties, A tactical retreat from the area was ordered.

    According to information gathered by Scout Salina, the smugglers were attempting to recover and transport barrels containing a substance referred to as “Flux,” believed to be a dangerous magical residue originating from within the Devastation itself. The patrol returned safely to town following the operation. Each adventurer involved in the patrol received fifty gold pieces in compensation for their efforts and assistance during the investigation. Additionally, I ensured that none of the companions who aided this patrol went without a warm meal or proper lodging upon our return, as their assistance proved invaluable under dangerous conditions.

    Given the apparent toxicity and magical instability of the flux substance, I will be arranging continued patrols into this area to attempt to gather more information on these smugglers and the Flux.

    Signed,
    Recruit Sebastian Rusk
    Redcloak Militia


  • To: Norwick Redcloaks Command
    From: Recruit Sebastian Rusk
    Subject: Goblin and Worg Encounter within the Rawlinswood

    While conducting operations within the Rawlinswood, I traveled alongside Miv the Archer, Salina the Scout, Auli'i the Fey, and Zora the Adventurer. During our movement through the forest, we encountered multiple goblins accompanied by several worgs. The engagement began as a standard skirmish, though it quickly became stranger than any account I would have believed had I not witnessed it myself. Among the goblins was one acting in the role of a bard or jester. This goblin carried no serious discipline for battle at first and instead began singing loudly, dancing about the battlefield, and repeatedly shaking his backside in our direction in what I can only assume was meant to be some form of intimidation or mockery.

    I record this truthfully and without exaggeration, though I understand how ridiculous it sounds when written plainly in an official report. Despite the goblins’ attempts at disruption and confusion, the company held formation and defeated all hostile forces encountered in the skirmish. The worgs were particularly aggressive, but coordinated action from the group prevented them from breaking our line.

    Following the engagement, additional hostile movement and sounds were detected deeper within the Rawlinswood. Signs pointed toward increasing enemy numbers gathering nearby. Given the risk of encirclement and the uncertainty of enemy strength, the group made the decision to conduct a tactical withdrawal back toward safer territory rather than press deeper into the forest.

    The retreat was completed successfully with no members of the party left behind.

    Respectfully submitted,
    Recruit Sebastian Rusk


  • To: Norwick Redcloaks Command
    From: Recruit Sebastian Rusk
    Subject: Encounter with Satyr “Springcherry” in the Rawlinswood

    While traversing the Rawlinswood with the company of adventurers, we encountered a satyr identifying himself as Springcherry. The satyr appeared calm and cordial despite the hostile conditions within the forest surrounding his glade. While inside his garden glade under his care, he offered tea, shelter, and a safe place to rest for a short time. During our conversation, Springcherry warned us of increasing hobgoblin activity deeper within the Rawlinswood. According to his account, the hobgoblins are constructing a fortress and gathering forces in significant number. He claimed they are building an army, though he could not provide exact numbers or a precise location beyond indicating it lay further within the forest.

    Springcherry also spoke at length regarding the state of the Rawlinswood itself. He explained that the forest has become violent and unnatural. Trees and other flora have reportedly come alive and have attacked travelers and creatures alike. He insisted this behavior was not the natural disposition of the wood, but rather the result of some imbalance or corruption affecting the land. Or moreso, from the direct actions of the Zhentarim. The satyr stated the forest would remain hostile until “things were returned to normal,” though he did not clearly explain what specifically must be restored or by whom. Whether this refers to a druidic imbalance, magical corruption, or another cause remains uncertain. Despite the unsettling nature of his claims, Springcherry did not behave with hostility toward us and appeared genuinely concerned about the worsening condition of the Rawlinswood. His warning regarding the hobgoblins may warrant further investigation.

    After our encounter with Springcherry, we moved deeper into the woods and found a strange tower, filled with possible fey. They were very hostile and our scout Salina was killed in the ensuing fight. She was brought back to Norwick and returned to life. Further investigation will be required in this tower.

    Respectfully submitted,
    Recruit Sebastian Rusk


  • Redcloak Militia Incident Report

    Filed By: Recruit Sebastian Rusk
    Location: Norwick Faire Grounds
    Occasion: Kelemvorite Festival and Faire

    Subject:

    Detainment of suspected Zhentarim affiliate during festival proceedings.

    During the Kelemvorite Festival and Faire held within Norwick, tensions arose surrounding the capture and intended execution of a young man found wearing Zhentarim armor and insignia. The individual had been apprehended by Aeline Norwick, who appeared prepared to proceed with a public hanging upon the faire grounds. Due to the presence of a large gathering of adventurers, travelers, townsfolk, and armed individuals already present for the festivities, the situation quickly became tense. The young man in question appeared frightened and was trying to speak, despite being gagged.

    As preparations for the execution continued, unrest began to spread throughout the crowd. Several adventurers voiced disagreement regarding the immediacy of the punishment. At this point, Judge Chancey arrived upon the scene and requested clarification regarding the disturbance and the nature of the prisoner’s crimes. This "Zhent" repeatedly claimed that he wore the armor only to “keep things away” from him while traveling dangerous roads. He denied being an active Zhentarim operative, though his possession of the equipment naturally raised concern amongst those gathered. After observing the growing tension and the instability of the situation, I made the recommendation that the young man instead be remanded into custody and properly questioned at a later time rather than hanged immediately before the crowd. My reasoning was that a calmer investigation may reveal whether the prisoner was truly a Zhentarim agent or merely a frightened youth making poor decisions in dangerous lands.

    Given the atmosphere present at the faire grounds, I believed postponing the execution would reduce the likelihood of violence breaking out amongst the assembled adventurers and citizens. The recommendation was ultimately accepted, and the prisoner was taken away by Redlocak Lark for further questioning rather than being publicly executed.

    No fatalities or significant injuries occurred during the incident.

    Signed,
    Recruit Sebastian Rusk
    Redcloak Militia

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Interrogation questions to possible ask. He might not even be able to answer all these. I find when people are asked a lot, they tend to slip up and offer information they normally wouldn't, out of confusion.

    Identity & Background

    State your full name and where you were born?
    How old are you?
    What brings you to Norwick?
    Do you travel alone or with companions?
    Have you ever served in a militia, mercenary company, caravan, or military force?
    Are you a member of the Zhentarim?
    Have you ever sworn an oath to the Black Network?
    Who are your family or closest associates?
    Where were you staying before arriving at the faire grounds?

    Regarding the Armor

    Where did you obtain the Zhentarim armor?
    Did you purchase it, steal it, inherit it, or take it from someone else?
    Who sold or gave the armor to you?
    How long have you possessed it?
    Were you aware that wearing Zhentarim armor would attract suspicion?
    Why continue wearing it if you feared being mistaken for a Zhent operative?
    Is the armor genuine issue from the Black Network or a replica?
    Did you possess any matching insignias, papers, orders, or tokens?

    Intentions & Purpose

    You claimed the armor was meant to “keep things away.” What specifically were you afraid of?
    Were you fleeing someone or something?
    Did you expect the armor to grant protection through fear or reputation?
    Did anyone instruct you to wear it?
    Were you sent here for a task or meeting?
    Did you intend harm against anyone in Norwick?
    Were you gathering information during the festival?
    Did you carry any hidden weapons, poisons, coded messages, or contraband?

    Zhentarim Activity

    Have you recently met with known Zhentarim agents?
    Are there other Zhents currently operating in or around Norwick?
    Have you heard of smuggling routes, hidden camps, or safehouses nearby?
    Do the Zhentarim have interest in the Norwick Devastation or other areas?
    Have you transported goods or messages for the Black Network before?
    Are there names, symbols, or passwords used by local Zhentarim cells?
    Who commands the Zhentarim presence in this region?

    Behavior & Credibility

    Why should the Redcloak Militia believe your claims?
    Is there anyone who can confirm your story?
    Are you withholding information out of fear?
    Are you under threat from another faction?
    What do you believe will happen if the Zhentarim learn you were captured?

    Final Questions

    Is there anything else we should know before deciding your fate?
    Are you willing to cooperate with the Redcloak Militia?
    Would you identify Zhentarim agents if brought before you?
    Are there innocent people in danger because of what you know?
    If released, where would you go?

    Notes for the Interrogator

    Observe whether the prisoner avoids eye contact during questions about the armor’s origin.
    Compare details of his story across repeated questioning.
    Check for inconsistencies regarding travel routes and names.
    Have scouts or adventurers verify any claimed locations or contacts.
    Priestess Aelra may be useful in determining sincerity through calm conversation, tending of any wounds he might have, rather than intimidation.
    The prisoner may respond more openly if separated from hostile crowds and questioned privately.


  • A simple note written down in the personal journal of Sebastian and not shared with the Redcloaks.

    "Something unexplained, I am still unsure what happened. While in the Devastation, there was a time where I began to see something."

    Darkness. The stench of rotting vegetation. Suddenly the flash of teeth, a giant wolf. Dark of fur, with a necklace made of humanoid bones. It snarls and snaps at your hand - is it your hand? - but it's bounds with many ropes. The gleaming edge slashes at the air above the wolf's head. It howls in pain as it's strength fails. The vision shifts sideways, but no, it's you who is falling.