Bogwood Poison Investigation Report   

Prepared by: Jornan Eastward, Baron of Eastward

Objective

To investigate the potential existence of stored poisons within the Bogwood, leveraging historical alchemical knowledge, current Dragonborn activities, and resistance operations.

Key Findings

1. Alchemical Heritage:

   • The Bogwood, once a halfling settlement, was historically known for its alchemical expertise. This includes the production of medicinal herbs, reagents, and experimental alchemical compounds.
   • Pre-war records suggest the presence of alchemical workshops that may still harbor caches of toxins or ingredients for poison creation.

2. Dragonborn Occupation and Experiments:

   • Valtharix the Scaled Tyrant has utilized the Bogwood's alchemical resources to support military operations.
   • Reports indicate experimental alchemical forges are still active, potentially manufacturing more than standard reagents.
   • Knowledge Limitation: Valtharix does not have access to skilled alchemists and primarily understands alchemical applications for explosives rather than more advanced or subtle uses like poison creation.
   • Pending Reinforcements: Valtharix has contacted General Innal for additional troop reinforcements to solidify his position. Intelligence suggests he is likely preparing to move against the Marque Trade Consortium in response to their planned Trial-Woods fire and recent trade disruptions.
   • Unusual Movements: Iskandral the Frost Maw has been frequently sighted flying north, often disappearing for several days before returning. The purpose of these excursions remains unknown, but the pattern suggests strategic reconnaissance or resource retrieval.

3. Suspicious Trade Activities:

   • The Blackthorn Rebellion has conducted illicit alchemical trades with the Dragonborn. While the known focus was on supplies and enchantments, the inclusion of toxic or weaponized substances cannot be dismissed.
   • The Marque Trade Consortium's transport of pitch and oil for their Trial-Woods burning initiative raises concerns about potential chemical weapons applications.

4. Resistance Insights:

   • Lorra Veylan’s resistance network uses coded halfling symbols to mark safehouses and resource caches. Some caches may include alchemical materials for sabotage.
   • The resistance's targeted ambushes suggest potential use of toxins to counter the larger and more heavily armed Dragonborn forces.
   • Cautionary Note: Lorra Veylan has expressed strong reservations about utilizing poisons, especially on food or water sources, due to the risk of blowback against her people. Her network prioritizes tactical sabotage without compromising the swamp's resources or endangering civilians.

Recommendations for Action

1. Locate and Investigate Halfling Alchemical Workshops:

   • Identify former workshop sites within the Bogwood village ruins.
   • Deploy scouts to search for hidden caches or alchemical equipment.

2. Intercept Dragonborn Supply Lines:

   • Monitor and intercept Dragonborn trade caravans suspected of transporting alchemical materials.
   • Focus on shipments heading toward Agathania’s Keep or military installations.

3. Engage with Lorra Veylan:

   • Request detailed information about suspected toxin caches or alchemical sabotage materials.
   • Offer logistical support to bolster her network’s reconnaissance capabilities.

4. Surveillance of Blackthorn Rebellion and Marque Trade Consortium:

   • Investigate Blackthorn’s alchemical transactions for signs of poison acquisitions.
   • Track the Marque Consortium’s pitch shipments for evidence of chemical weapon components.

5. Ecological Testing of the Bogwood Waters:

   • Deploy druids and herbalists to test swamp water samples for toxic residues.
   • Investigate the presence of alchemically altered flora or fauna as evidence of poison dispersal experiments.

Conclusion

The historical and strategic importance of the Bogwood's alchemical infrastructure, coupled with recent Dragonborn activities and suspicious trade behaviors, indicates a high likelihood of stored or actively produced poisons.

Immediate reconnaissance of old workshop sites and Dragonborn supply routes is advised, alongside collaborative efforts with the resistance to uncover the full extent of potential chemical threats.

Signed,
Jornan Eastward, Baron of Eastward