To Captain Dorian Kessler, Marque Trade Consortium,

Captain,

As requested, my scouts have compiled detailed assessments of defensive positions within both the Bogwood and the Trial-Woods. Should the Consortium wish to take action, the following intelligence will prove invaluable.

Bogwood Defenses:

• Main Stronghold: Valtharix commands from a fortified position near the swamp’s heart. The outpost is encircled by palisades reinforced with iron bracings scavenged from ruined settlements.
• Watchtowers: Three elevated wooden towers along the southern bog perimeter, each manned with two archers and a rotating patrol.
• Lizardfolk Auxiliaries: Reports confirm at least fifty lizardfolk warriors patrolling the wetlands. Their knowledge of the terrain makes them highly effective ambushers.
• Dragon’s Roost: Iskandral the Frost Maw has been spotted roosting atop a stone ridge near the stronghold. Any direct assault must account for his presence.

Trial-Woods Defenses:

• Blackthorn’s Encampment: The rebel leader has fortified the Fey Ruins, using natural overgrowth and old elven warding stones to obscure his position.
• Guerrilla Traps: Spiked pits and concealed snares line the main approaches. Scouts have also observed oil reserves stored near key chokepoints, likely for controlled fires.
• Outer Patrols: Groups of six to eight men rotate between tree platforms and brush-covered blind spots. Night patrols are particularly active between dusk and midnight.
• Allied Forces: Intelligence suggests Blackthorn maintains ties with local druids, who have been seen calling upon the forest itself to hinder intruders.

Given the nature of these defenses, I advise a campaign of subterfuge and targeted strikes before any full-scale engagement. Disrupting supply chains, bribing informants within the camps, or sowing discord between Valtharix and Blackthorn could provide the leverage needed to avoid excessive casualties.

Awaiting your orders.

Commander Elias Varn
The Iron Fangs Mercenary Company