DIVISION: Forces

[frdivisions]

DIVISION

FORCES

↠ Reports

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The Forces Division is the Inquisition's army in Kirkwall. It provides security for the base there and also for Inquisition agents on missions, shipments, and guests. It also includes the base's healers, and all the other support staff necessary to the outfitting and maintenance of an army, include smiths, engineers, stable workers, and the like.

LEADER: Commander Coupe | INFO
PROJECTS: Naval Presence, Red Lyrium

Comments

Forms & Information

[frdivisions]

Reports for any research, missions, etc. completed by division members that doesn't fall within a specific project should be filed here. The provided form is a template; feel free to add additional fields if you need them.

<blockquote style="text-align:justify;"><b>SUBJECT:</b> <b>PARTICIPANTS:</b> <b>DATE FILED:</b> <b>STATUS:</b> Ongoing / Complete / Abandoned <b>SUMMARY:</b> Briefly, what was this about? Stick to 2-3 sentences. E.g., "A team went to Orlais to attempt to acquire the perfect cheese. Bandits ate it before they arrived, but in exchange for killing the bandits in vengeance, the dairy owner gave them his secret recipe." <b>REPORT:</b> The actual IC report delivered to the division head and archived with the division records. This can be as short or as long as your character would make it and should (hopefully) (if your character isn't a total slacker) include project-relevant information, such as the cheese recipe. <b>NOTES & LINKS:</b> Any other notes, links to relevant logs or inbox threads, etc. </blockquote>

Personnel Issue

[limier]

Lord Harlungin;

There has been a small altercation involving a member of your division (Ser Cade Harriman), and another (Seeker Aleron Darton) within the Inquisition's Research division. Though the Warden Bethany Hawke was present, I am told that she attempted to deescalate the situation.

A woman (one “Rhona") slapped Darton, to which Harriman responded by slamming her to the ground. Darton had him hold her there, and then by the arms. To my knowledge there were no lasting injuries. I have enclosed a more detailed summary of events, and will forward the same to Monsieur de Foncé.

This might be dismissed as a response to unprovoked attack, were the level of force returned not so violently disproportionate. Harriman’s history of rash action is a matter of record; however, I wish to note that he voluntarily reports to the Seeker. Upon speaking with Darton, the Seeker expressed that he felt justified in his handling of the incident. Having previously led Harriman within Inquisition operations, I must respectfully disagree.

We are in the Gallows — this is no excuse to stage a reenactment.

Regards,
— Ser Coupe

personnel issue, OR: gigi writes a stern letter.

[elegiaque]

Lord Harlungin,

I wish to complain in the strongest possible terms about the gross negligence in failing to provide Templar Cade Harriman with suitable training before permitting him to serve in the Inquisition. Recent events have come to my attention which can only be described as inevitable in the circumstances, which are as I see it the plain fact he will continue to behave as his training dictates if he is not given proper and thorough instruction and guidance through what is now required of him. He has expressed to me a wish to be retrained by Ser Coupe, and nothing should ever please me more than to be able to speak later of her success if this is permitted. I understand her to be an exemplary professional with a ready grasp of the dynamic and volatile situation we face in Kirkwall.

It would disappoint me as much to be obliged to speak of anything else.

Sincerely,
Lady Gwenaëlle Vauquelin

( she's not saying she'd drag the Inquisition in public for executing him, but she's not saying she wouldn't, either. )

[in_death_sacrifice]

SUBJECT: Dragon Slaying
PARTICIPANTS: Kain, Inessa, Kattrin, James, and Samouel
DATE FILED: Solace 1
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: While exploring the Vimmark Mountains, Kain crossed paths with a high dragon, ending up badly injured in the ensuing battle. During his recovery, all he could think about was revenge. He eventually gathered up a small team to fight and slay the dragon, ridding the area of a very dangerous threat.

REPORT:

A high dragon had taken up residence in the Vimmark Mountains. The proximity to Kirkwall was concerning, and although there hadn't yet been reports of it causing trouble, it was only a matter of time... particularly with the Inquisition moving to the area. Knowing the habits of dragons... and not to mention curious people... the danger was great. After a failed attempt A team was gathered to face this dragon, and bring it down once and for all.

The battle was intense. We very nearly succumbed several times over, between its raging fire, its teeth and claws, and the way it used its wings as an offensive tactic. It forced us to give chase as well, very nearly flying away. But we prevailed. With a balanced group of warriors and mages, we eventually overcame the dragon.

As for the dragon itself, she was a majestic and worthy enemy. I was almost disappointed we had to slay her, but such is the way of things sometimes. I've recorded my observations of the dragon herself, including behaviors, attacks, and physical measurements in a series of attached notes. Her scales and bones and teeth will make fine trophies, and we'll be sure to let nothing go to waste. I'll be following up by clearing out any young in her lair, ensuring a safer passage through this area of the mountains.

NOTES & LINKS: Dragonslaying thread

[provenforce]

SUBJECT: Sabotaging the Red Lyrium Mine and Rescuing Captives
PARTICIPANTS: Rey, Kylo Ren, Nari Dahlasanor, Yngvi, Malcolm Reed
DATE FILED: Cloudreach 1
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: A team was tasked to scope out the Red Lyrium mine in the Sunless Lands ahead of the Inquisition forces to report back on numbers and do a little sabotage. They took out a Red Lyrium giant, saved some people, and laid a whole bunch of fun traps.

REPORT:

My team and I were successful in infiltrating the Red Lyrium mine in the Sunless Lands that was the source of the Red Templar's primary source of lyrium. We were able to report via crystal the numbers of templars to waiting troops, before sneaking in under cover of darkness. We removed as many non-combatants from the field as possible, opening cages where the templars had been keeping people, including the nomadic tribe that belonged to the village we stumbled across previously. Unfortunately the tribe was almost an entire loss, but other civilians were able to escape with their lives.

Traps were laid to inhibit the Red Templar's movement when the Inquisition moved in, and a sleeping giant covered in Red Lyrium was slain by a combination of all our efforts.


NOTES & LINKS: log here

[limier]

Mlle. Rey,

You did well. Were it not for the efforts of your team, we'd not have taken the mine without losses. Our men and women owe you their lives.

[ stronger language than she'd otherwise use, but it's ugly work to do the things that need done. you look to the living. ]

The affliction of beasts by red lyrium has been previously observed: I think now of the Northern kraken. It may be worth speaking to Enchanter Delacroix of the matter; I cannot think this is the last we will see them so weaponized, and there may be something to be learned for it — if only how best to combat their use.


Regards,
— Ser Coupe

[in_death_sacrifice]

SUBJECT: Meet Me In The Pit
PARTICIPANTS: Kain, Araceli, Mal
DATE FILED: Cloudreach 30
STATUS: Ongoing
SUMMARY: From the original description: "There are combatants spread across every division, and everyone’s called upon in a time of need. Find and spar with (willing!!) Inquisition personnel outside of Forces, and report back on the results. Did you discover anything unexpected about your technique, or theirs? Speaking with Rifters is encouraged."

REPORT:

Greetings Commander,

I've completed the assignment to face others outside of our division. Although their primary skills are in other areas, I can report that for the most part, we needn't worry about their combat capabilities. There are plenty of them who can hold their own against a Forces fighter. There's some variation of skill among them, of course, which I'm sure is already taken into account when sending non-Forces fighters out into combat. But we can be assured that they're a strong addition to our fighting team.

Two of the battles were especially noteworthy. Araceli Bonaventura y Castell, of Diplomacy, whose rogue-like fighting style is incredibly effective, especially considering she's got the unpredictability that comes with being a rifter. She had some surprises up her sleeve. Also, Malum Draco, Research division, who's a skillful mage specializing in entropy and storm magic. Attached is a full list of my findings from each battle I had over the course of the month, with details about each fighter. I hope that this information will be useful.

Sincerely,

Warden Kain Ventfort

NOTES & LINKS: Log here. I'm also assuming he had some other battles with NPCs in addition!

[limier]

Warden Ventfort,

Thank you for the notes; your eye for detail is appreciated.

In the future, please refrain from engaging recklessly with potentially lethal force (eg: lightning spells) during a training assignment. While some combat methods may greater expose us than others, I need emphasize the importance of avoiding injury within routine practice — we lack enough hands for our work, and the healers sufficient to reattach them.

It is inherently difficult to practice combatting magic in a manner both safe and effective; I recommend speaking with Ser Norrington upon that count. I believe you both would gain much for an exchange of technique.

Regards,

— Ser Coupe.

[utulien_aure]

SUBJECT: How Much is That Doggy in the Window (Costing Us Weekly)
PARTICIPANTS: Fingon, Adalia, Thor
DATE FILED: Cloudreach 30
STATUS: Ongoing
SUMMARY: The team was assigned with determining the number of animals who currently belong to Inquisition members and whether there are contingency plans for their care.

REPORT: Commander Coupe,

Twenty one members of the Inquisition reported twenty eight pets between them, with another few verbally confirming they had animals of their own as well. Of the animals we have on record, most are mounts, hounds, pet nugs, and the Grey Wardens' flock of griffons. The last group, we understand, are the responsibility of the Warden leadership in Kirkwall. Most of the animals' masters have already made arrangements for their companions in the case of an emergency, and most of the rest will do so now that they have the reminder.

On a number of occasions it was necessary to reassure those asked that volunteering information on their animal companions would not result in said companions being harmed by the Inquisition. This was particularly common with beasts who had fallen through a Rift with their owners. While some of the beasts in question may prove dangerous if threatened, that does not make them particularly different from most Inquisition members themselves. Setting a public example that information entrusted to us will not be misused may incline the caretakers of such animals to be more forthcoming in the future.

We also recommend releasing the information found in this report to the care of the Inquisition's animal handlers, such as Alex Karahlios.

NOTES & LINKS: Crystal message, Survey

[limier]

Mssr. Fingolfinion,

A 'creature'. Maker, they'd better be feeding these from their own pay.

[ if that's informal, it's because it's fingon. she's fond. ]

I will not claim their fears unjustified, but it is a mutual paranoia. The Inquisition may only guarantee safety within our own walls: The best means to minimize threat is to take use caution within the city.

Your average citizen will not stop to see that a dragon is 'friendly' when there are many with good reason to fear even a dog — I'd certainly not take my own to the Alienage.

Feeling against Rifters has begun to ease, but we risk it when we behave recklessly. We must protect our own, without appearing to be (forgive me) draconian in measure. Difficult to manage, no? I welcome any thoughts you may have upon the matter.

This information will be made available in a centralized location, that our Stablemaster and other qualified personnel might access it. To be updated, as the need arises.

Regards,
— Ser Coupe.

[gatheringstorm]

SUBJECT: Meet Me In the Pit
PARTICIPANTS: Korrin Ataash, Fenris, Six
DATE FILED: Cloudreach 30
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: Fighting non-Forces agents for research.

REPORT:

Commander Coupe,

I've done my part to test the capabilities of our agents outside the Forces division, though if I'm honest I do this anyway. If you want ongoing reports whenever I get to them, I can have this hobby of mine be more official in an ongoing basis. Anyway, I tested a few people who didn't run away at the sight of a giant horned woman asking to spar with them.

The sparring sessions that stood out to me were with Fenris and a rifter elf known as Six, a relative newcomer. Why Fenris is in Scouting rather than Forces, I have no idea as he's a very capable warrior. His two-handed blade style is swift and brutal, and if that had been the first time we tested each other, I would have been considerably off my game. As it is, he's still an unnerving opponent. He doesn't like to talk about it, but his lyrium markings help him considerably...though seeing as how it was just sparring, he was kind enough not to go and crush my heart. He settled for using its defensive capabilities, making it harder for me to land a good hit on him, which was already enough of a pain in the ass.

My session with Six was went well, and she has admitted to previous training. It shows, as she's strong, adaptable and very effective even without the abilities she lost when entering this world. While she hasn't officially signed up with any division, I highly recommend her should she turn her attention to Forces. We could always use more people like her.

Regards,
Korrin Ataash

NOTES & LINKS: Yo.

ooc note: feel free to keep doing these, just stick em in this same thread ❤

[limier]

Mlle. Ataash,

The system of division is at times a crude one. We've all certain areas of focus, but it is often our outside skills which distinguish us.

This report is itself a form of research, no? Your outreach upon behalf tal'vashoth, a form of diplomacy — and I am certain you have recovered intelligence while deployed with Mlle. Bonaventura. A scout surprised is a scout in need of a blade.

I am heartened to hear you make an active study of technique, and welcome any further findings you might relay.

[ 'sure give me free information for the files i'm definitely not keeping on everyone' ]

Regards,
— Ser Coupe.

[periastron]

SUBJECT: Get Down With The Sickness
PARTICIPANTS: Bronach, Simon, Alex
DATE FILED: 28th day of fake April
STATUS: Initial stage complete, however information gathering will be on-going.
SUMMARY: A survey was conducted to help ensure the Kirkwall outpost and missions are adequately staffed with appropriate medical personnel (and expanded to collect useful information for treating people)

REPORT:

Commander Coupe,

Just over 40% of Inquisition personnel responded to the survey. It’d be beneficial to keep the survey available and keep encouraging people to provide the requested information indefinitely, and do periodic reports to review the staffing situation.

Possible causes for not personnel not responding yet are the strike and those who may have declined to respond on that basis, those away on assignments who were not able to reply prior to our deadline for presenting this report, and those who had concerns submitting the information or who didn’t want to communicate with any of the nominated persons despite the offer to secure someone else for them to speak with, and lack of awareness of the survey. We raised it on the crystals, but making it an on-going project would help us get a more accurate picture.


Regarding different types of treatment:

Magic: General.
Of the respondents, just under 82.9% replied “yes” to accepting magical treatment. Further to that, 4.3% replied with a conditional “yes, depending on the situation.”
10.6% stated “no.”
There was an additional 2.1% that responded positively to magic, but specified no Spirit Healing, although this matter was addressed separated in the next section.

Magic: Spirit Healing.
70.2% responded “yes” to spirit healing.
A further 10.6% stated yes with conditions, sometimes citing that it would only be acceptable if a particular healer were or were not to treat them, or that they would accept it only in emergency situations. 2.1% stated “possibly,” so it’s reasonable to conclude that 12.7% of respondents may accept spirit healing depending on particular circumstances.
17% of respondents will not accept treatment with spirit healing under any circumstances.

Standard/Non-Magic: General.
For standard healing, 89.4% of respondents stated “yes.”
2.1% (each) stated “yes” depending on the circumstances, stated it was not required, and declined to respond.
4.3% stated “no.”

Standard/Non-Magic: Surgical.
57% of respondents stated “yes” to surgical medicine.
23.4% responded “yes” depending on the circumstances, and 4.3% responses “yes” if all other possibilities had been exhausted.
2.1% (each) declined to respond or stated it was not required.
Another 2.1% responded “specify,” perhaps meaning it would depend on the nature of the surgery.
8.5% stated “no.”

Note from Alex:
Surgery in Thedas is a long way behind where it’s at in other worlds, including mine. The lack of anaesthesia, sterilisation and other equipment is a big problem, and it can make a huge difference to a patient’s likelihood of recovery and survival. Honestly, any hesitations that people have regarding surgery here are more than fair.
I’d like to request funding and resources to being able to research and develop better surgical supplies, and adapt methods for what we have available here. Not sure how you guys feel about cadavers, given all the possession stuff, but they’d be really useful, too.
Is that something I’d talk to you or the Provost about? Or both?

There was mention of concern about surgery sounding like blood magic, people not understanding what certain treatments might involve, which is fair enough. Not sure what to do about the blood magic bit in particular, but if there’s a way to help improve people’s understanding so they can make informed decisions without it being a crisis situation.


Privacy.
A suggestion was also offered that we could use a cipher for the medical information to ensure confidentiality at a higher level. I think that could cause delays in treatment and could lead to translation errors in a rush, but ultimately that’d be your call, Commander.

[added in a different hand] Given, however, the fact that Venatori infiltrators have breached the Gallows’ defenses before, it is important to consider further security of storage than we otherwise might have, if we are to have lists containing Inquisition agents’ weaknesses and sensitive histories on hand. If a cipher would be impractical for this purpose, then perhaps we should look to the artificers for a mechanism that could, say, deter those without a particular code from accessing the container in which we keep the files. I can make recommendations as requested. [The previous hand resumes here.]
We have further information and statistics, however some of these are not relevant to Forces preparation for staffing and supplies, etc, and will only be of use to treating physicians. In keeping with our discussion, information not relevant to your request have not been included, and we cannot disclose particulars of any individuals to you.

Contact us if you require anything further or need more clarification.



(OOC) NOTES & LINKS:
— network post & survey post.
— Mhairi is a superstar who organised all our data
— Mhairi is not responsible for any possibly tragic attempts to convert into %

— Approximately 40% of player characters (as of 25/4/18) responded. Obviously those aren’t ALL the Inquisition personnel in the Kirkwall outpost, but since there are limited NPCs and for the sake of statistics perhaps it can be handwaved that a corresponding ratio of NPCs replied and that their answers aligned with player character responses, just for the sake of argument.

& OOC organisational note based on player inquiry:
Since the survey could be on-going for incoming characters and be useful for players of medical staff, it could be a good idea for the surveys and their responses to be available to be added to and viewed in a more game-based way than being in a specific character journal.

Perhaps it could as a Gdoc from the mod account (like the room list) or possibly as an entry in the frorg account and responses could be left as comments? Either way it would be player maintained/player responsibility to comment & read, and potentially could be more accessible.
As its rooted in the Forces division we thought this was worth bringing to you before scampering to the moderinos.

[limier]

Mlle. Karahalios,

It is both boon and unfortunate fact that the Inquisition relies largely upon spirit healers. I can little blame those who are wary, and hope that our new additions may encourage some to seek treatment where they would not otherwise.

Magical healing is a luxury I confess I have grown used to, but it is a rare art, which most will go their lives without encountering. The recent strike only underscores the importance of furthering other research: If the Provost proves amenable, I will agree to split funding between our divisions.

However, I cannot at this time grant you access to corpses. The Veil is precariously thin here; for all our work to strengthen it, leaving bodies about remains a serious hazard to life, limb, and reputation. Anatomical studies are accordingly difficult to come by, but perhaps a necromancer or one of our University scholars might at least suggest alternatives.

As regards blood magic: I have been previously required to investigate certain surgeons, but I regret my association will mean less than it once did. Ser Caron or Seeker Reed might vouch for the work if required. While I am disinclined to conceal information any further than necessary, if Ser Ashlock wishes to investigate a means of mechanical protection, I will await a followup report with his recommendations.

At the risk of bludgeoning you with names, Cosima Niehaus is a scholar of her world, and I may speak to Enchanter Vauquelin’s skill with a blade. [ hah :( ] I think them both likely to take interest in this research.

My gratitude to each of you, for your diligence and discretion. It is a credit.

Regards,
— Ser Coupe.

[ ooc note - i'm working on the best way to organize it, but either way i'll take it to the mods & let you guys know after. currently thinking a doc linked to a forces post for this & the pets one, and just reminding people to fill it out when doing new assignment posts in the ooc comm.

also mhairi's a beast, jeez ]

A helpful list

[koteletten]

SUBJECT: Potential Rifter Threats
PARTICIPANTS: Compiled by Knight-Lieutenant Maximilian von Ottonheim
DATE FILED: Bloomingtide 11
STATUS: To be determined
SUMMARY: Having overheard several alarming statements made by rifters during the present uproar, I took it upon myself to keep notes of such statements. They seemed most likely to be of use to you.

REPORT:

• A Rifter who later identified herself as "Jane" and sounded like a young woman with an odd drawl claimed that she could not be controlled by anyone, and would 'react poorly' to anyone attempting it. She also made suspicious references to some plan or object that she was now concerned with given the present situation. I cannot be certain, but given the accent I believe she may be the same Rifter who previously claimed ignorance of the curfew.
  
  
• A male Rifter made the admittedly vague claim that there were those among their ranks who are "strong enough to resist" obeying the Inquisition. He claimed to have no unnatural abilities himself.
  
  
• One female Rifter who claims to have lived for "ages of the earth" has made several unsettling statements at different times. She said that if a phylactery were made for her the "results would be catatrophic" and later told Sir Caron that she would not allow mortal men to dictate to her and that we would find her far more difficult to kill than any of her captors. She is the same, I believe, who previously made similar statements regarding how difficult we might find enforcing any rule she did not wish to follow, and implied she was planning some manner of action.
  
  
• A male Rifter called "Master Kenobi" stated with some certainty that the Inquisition would be unable to take blood from him by force if it wished to. He was clearly well-acquainted with another Rifter named "Kylo-Ben" who has displayed considerable anger in his many messages on this subject and stated quite vehemently that he would not allow blood to be taken from himself or Rey, the Rifter head of base maintenance.
  
  
• A Rifter named Iorveth expressed his rage at great length and repeatedly made clear he would fight to the death no matter the odds against him rather than comply with any order to allow the creation of a phylactery. He also advocated all Rifters abandoning the Inquisition.
  
  
• A Rifter identifying himself as "Allacroon" stated that the Inquisition could take his blood from his corpse, most likely at the expense of several of their own.
  
  
• Several other unidentified male Rifters made similar statements indicating that they would under no circumstances comply with orders, and were prepared to resist with force.
  
  
• Qunari Apostate Korrin Attash stated that she would fight anyone who attempted to create phylacteries for rifters.
  
  
• Nevarran apprentice Mal Draco stated that she was morally opposed to using the research of the Rifts & the Veil Project in any way that might put Rifters at risk. She would be well-placed to sabotage any research into creating Rifter phylacteries.
  
  
• An unidentified female Rifter stated that wars had begun over similar incidents in her world and that we might all count ourselves lucky there had not been more violent outbursts as yet.
  
  
• An unidentified male Rifter with an accent similar to that of Kirkwall stated that this situation can only end poorly and requested reassignment to somewhere he might find dangerous wildlife.

NOTES & LINKS: N/A

[limier]

Knight-Lieutenant,

Thank you. I needn't underscore the importance of discretion, in light of its recent absence.

I have been required to step away from portions of the discussion, but have added notes where able.

As compiling, I consider it may be shorter to list those Rifters that have not voiced threatening opinion. We've little option at present but to consider the bulk of it bluster, and to prepare for specific abilities and personalities which dominate discussion.


The Rifted Elves: Provost Thranduil, Fingon, Maedhros, Galadriel (?), Iorveth, Bronach, Adalia, "Aro".

Unusually unified, and actively cultivate native elven support. The Dalish apostate Sorrelean Ashara, and Inquisition Scout Agassi have made noises to the effect; the Provost is additionally close with Scoutmaster Ashara, presently incapacitated.

Thranduil. swordsman. Has been attempting to acquire resistance to magebane; imagine I could accurately estimate an altered dosage. Possesses some ability to alter his appearance, the limits of which I am unaware. He will not look first to violence.

Fingon and Maedhros are archers, swordsman, and speak to past combat experience. I have heard previous mention of a Galadriel, with the implication I'd not be pleased by her. I confess to knowing little else, but by the speech of our "ages of the earth" agitator, there is reason to believe them one and the same. If this is the case, she will hold disciplinary records pre-dating my time with the Inquisition, and her references to dealings with other Inquisition prisoners give ample cause for concern. Write Skyhold.

Iorveth is elven, having previously advocated armed rebellion therein. They are flocking accordingly. I confess to know little of his abilities. Do not engage in close quarters for the time being, he may be lured out if necessary.

Bronach. Elven, smith, archer. Has hinted to magical ability and to distrust of organization; would not speak openly of either.

Adalia spoke little publicly, but I believe we've reason to be wary the same. An elemental mage and shapeshifter. Very young. Openly advocates property damage and the removal of templars. Associated with Iorveth, and the "inadvertant" cause of the Scoutmaster's recent incapacitation. Keeps some sort of Rifted dragon about, which breathes ice; likely manipulable about this point. Appears romantically attached to Allacroon.

"Aro". Little-known, seems a young man. Previous conversations indicate distrust of the Inquisition, and intentions to leave it. Keeps the second of the Rifted dragons.


Rifted Knight-Enchanters: Rey, Kenobi (?), Kylo Ben (?)

While I have found Rey reasonable in previous dealings, I regret it is not a pattern we may assume to continue. She fights with some manner of Rifted spirit blade, and limited force magic. Kenobi's reference to her as apprentice leads me to think it likely we might expect similar of the three. Attempt to disarm before engaging; separate from the mabari if able.


Native Sympathizers: Ataash, Draco.

Ataash is involved with Bonaventura (the head of our Naval projects, and a Rifter). She is easily-incensed, but has thus far proven more bark than bite. Speaks of being a "battlemage", claims at times to be a Knight-Enchanter. The limitations of an apostate aside, she appears to have laid hands upon a hilt and the basics of technique.

Draco: The Nevarran apprentice. Aware of demonstrations with elemental magic, but I think of negligible import. Better placed to interfere in research is the Provost himself.

An aside — Helena and Sarah Manning are Rifters who have not engaged publicly in discussion, but merit watch. The former is a skilled knife fighter who has caused previous injury. She is otherwise childlike, and strongly attached to the latter, her sister. If one moves, the other will too.



Maker willing, the situation will not escalate. Regardless, these remain valuable additions to our personnel files. I will be in contact as events unfold. Ser Caron, Ser Ashlock, and Seeker Reed may be relied upon, should action become necessary. Ser Norrington is presently occupied with the Scoutmaster.

Do not at this time contact Knight-Enchanters regarding backup.

Regards,
— Ser Coupe.

[motherfucking_ghost]

SUBJECT: Sunk Cost
PARTICIPANTS: Korrin, Kara, Church
DATE FILED: Bloomingtide 20
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: Swimming lessons! Splish splash! Nobody died. It was fun(?)

REPORT:
Korrin Ataash led the charge with regard to swimming lessons both basic and advanced, helped along by a few others with some experience. This took place on land for verbal instruction and shallow water for physical application. Korrin also made the point to inform people how to spot someone in distress or drowning, as it does not actually tend to look like frantic flailing leading to a heroic and sexy beach rescue as at least some of us have come to expect.

In that respect, both Kara Line and Leonard Church introduced a formalized emergency medical prodedure, CPR ([and here there are several stricken attempts to spell the words a few times] cardiopulmonary resuscitation), used in emergencies when there is no longer a heartbeat, as well as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation used especially with drowning victims (and also usually along with CPR) in order to expel water from the lungs and restore autonomous breathing. CPR involves hard and quick compression of the chest area over the heart at a consistent speed and depth in order to keep blood flowing before finding a way to restart the heart. (Sometimes CPR alone is enough but not typically.) There should also be regular airflow/ventilation from the mouth to the lungs, which here is mostly going to involve mouth-to-mouth--pinching the nose shut and breathing into the victim's mouth to attempt to get air into the lungs. Some giggling and immature comments were had at least until a demonstration. Be forewarned that CPR should not be performed by people not trained, and that cracked ribs are a common complaint (which is perfectly normal and honestly a sign you did it right).

Suggest a training course on non-magical field medicine for the treatment and stabilization of common injuries and battle wounds until a healer can get to them. Magical field medicine for non-healer mages also recommended.

To make the naval forces happy as well, an inventory was taken of the current stock of lifeboats. If possible, suggest the construction of lifejackets/life vests? Material that floats on water and will keep a grown person buoyant, preferably easy to put on and secure, preferably brightly colored or reflective to be easily spotted.

Last of note, Korrin calmly and with humor dispelled incorrect or racist rumors about the swimming abilities of various people (ie dwarves have the Stone in them so they sink to the bottom, qunari are responsible for many of the tales of sea monsters because of their horns, etc). It was a learning experience for all. No one threw any punches, which I would call a success.

NOTES & LINKS: n/a

[earthbones]

SUBJECT: Pop Some Tags
PARTICIPANTS: Brónach; various 'victims' at the Tourney
DATE FILED: Post-Tourney
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: Armour observations during the Grand Tourney about any new types and if anyone is willing to share or trade with the Inquisition

REPORT:
Commander,

I've spent years as a smith, a thing we've spoken of before, believe me when I say that there are few armours I haven't seen in my life living as I have. The Tourney offered helms I find to be impractical for the way they obscure the vision best seen in the jousting for those who were unhorsed when they clearly couldn't see where they were aiming or where their opponent aimed, but some of the lighter styles from further afield showed more promise. I don't know how practical the Inquisition would find leather armour for anything outside Scouting, perhaps you'd wish to forward that to the one in charge there.

(A question I didn't ask given the tensions: the cooling methods of armour here. If chitin is used. If the opportunity arises to pursue, I will but everything looked to come from metal and hide/leather/fur, some cloth here and there.)

The way certain cloths behave is new to me, as are the exact properties of some metals. To me, some metals are stronger than others, combined with others to create something else. That they're so different entirely in Thedas will help my work for the Inquisition, there were there those 'good enough' to clear that up to me.

They were less inclined to share with me at the sight of my ears and my hand together. One alone might have been enough but together, even with how I shot, they waved me off. An elf may shoot well enough to be praised, but she cannot learn secrets to broker a deal.

We do have a set I'll be adapting to fit Alexandra on the grounds of it being given to her to joust in, it being damaged after, and ill-fitting. The armour would not be missed, and my hands were better suited to crafting something better from it. Come by the smithy once the final fitting is made, judge for yourself.

By my hand and my seal,
Brónach

NOTES & LINKS: Link to armour discussion here; attached to the report are a set of highly detailed sketches of some of the more interesting armours seen during the Tourney (the plumes on any helms have been exaggerated as and when boredom struck)

[mousquetaire]

SUBJECT: Brave Camp-anions
PARTICIPANTS: Alexandra, D’Artagnan, Fingon, Kylo Ren and Rey
DATE FILED: Justinian 22
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: The team took a short trip outside Kirkwall to test the Inquisition's camping supplies, and also engage in some friendly team bonding. There were gondolas rolling down hillsides, complaints over biscuits (and Rey's cooking), and everyone loved Kylo Ren's puppy.

REPORT:

Madame Commander,

You will be pleased to note that the Inquisition's camping supplies are, for the most part, fit for purpose. Alexandra, Kylo, Rey, Fingon and myself set out with a wide array of equipment and put them through their paces. I should note that the tents are not made to be erected by one person alone, but the group of us managed it without much delay. I think we would all agree the experience brought us closer together. Nevertheless, I don't think it would do any harm for division members to be drilled in rapid construction. In times of trouble, we may not have the luxury of teamwork.

I should also note some of the tents we tested were somewhat the worse for wear. Still, in our view they are not beyond repair - in fact Rey has already begun the work.

Unfortunately I cannot say the same about the hardtack we were issued. Having tested it personally, I can advise that it should be retired with immediate effect, and new recipes be found for use, unless perhaps you feel someone is in need of punishment.

I trust that our efforts have proven useful. Should you require anything further I will be happy to provide it.

With my warmest regards,

D'Artagnan.

NOTES & LINKS: Log!

[swordproof]

SUBJECT: Lowtown and Order
PARTICIPANTS: Six, Cade
DATE FILED: Before the Tevinter mission
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: Improve relations with the Kirkwall guard while also seeing if any might be willing to join the Inquisition.

REPORT:

Commander Coupe,

Cade and myself spoke to members of the guard about the position of the Inquisition and how it might best help them with their jobs, their rounds and making their lives easier. It was clear, initially, that some of the guardsmen were not comfortable with the position of the Rifters in Kirkwall; they did not see how they would be a benefit to their lives or how it might help them. They were not resistant, only confused by the rumour of the nature of Rifters and uncomfortable with the implication of what their 'aid' might be.

We spoke with a set of guards in particular and assured them that the Inquisition was not present to try and upset the balance of their lives already. The Inquisition is here to aid the guards in Kirkwall and we reassured them that we would do what we could to help them, especially in terms of any criminal behaviour that might occur, either from those born to Thedas itself or those brought through the Rifts.

I feel as though they appreciated the sentiment of our speaking with them and the reaction of the guards to the Inquisition and Rifters alike will be more positive in the future. I have attached some names of guardsmen that may prove themselves as possible recruits in the future.

- Six & Cade

NOTES & LINKS: THREAD

report

[periastron]

SUBJECT: The Dead of Knight
PARTICIPANTS: Alex Karahalios, James Norrington, Six
DATE FILED: immediately on their return, mid-Harvestmere-ish
STATUS: mission complete / log ongoing
SUMMARY: A team go to Churneau to investigate the death of Chevalier Dame Ines. It starts poorly, and progresses to worse. Although they find a suspect and report them, they get kicked out.

REPORT:

Commander Coupe,

Respectfully, I think sending a team with two rifters to a war zone to investigate a murder might not have been the ideal scenario, and I promise you that is a massive understatement. Even with Knight-Commander Norrington’s intervention and advocacy on a few things, they were frosty from the get go.

The good news is that I was able to do an autopsy. Based on what I found, I feel confident in saying that Dame Ines was poisoned. There weren’t any signs of injury from a weapon, or sickness that I could work out. Attached is a break down of my findings, but boiled down to simplest terms her stomach and esophagus had an excess of blood, the mucous membranes were eroded, and there was a lot of blacked tissue. I haven’t seen anything like it before, honestly, but the nature of the damage and the localisation definitely supports poison.

The bad news is that while I was doing the autopsy and Six and Norrington were investigating and searching, one of our suspects got suspicious and tried to drown me in a cask of wine. (Next time I’ll make sure not to do the autopsy in the cellar, but it was the best location we had available to us.)

Luckily, my esteemed colleagues found alarming evidence in her room, realised they couldn’t find her to arrest her, and came to my rescue. It was very stirring and emotional. Inspiration. The soldiers hate us for reporting their beloved cook and getting her hanged, and then we got booted for stirring up dissatisfaction and conflict in the ranks, so that isn’t really ideal.

Along with the medical report, attached you’ll find the encoded documents from the cook’s room. She’s been hung already for being an Ander spy. Hopefully she hadn’t had a chance to report to the Ander forces about the Dame’s death. Might be that one of these documents is information she was meaning to send their way, or information from them.

Let us know if you’ve got questions.

Doctor Alexandra Karahalios

NOTES & LINKS: log

{ sent near the end of Harvestmere }

[aceso]

Ser Coupe,

For over half a year, my project has been performing tests comparing red lyrium to the taint of darkspawn that causes a Blight. Extensive testing of cleansing runes on both red lyrium and the Blight itself have shown similar behavior in both samples and more detailed analysis through use of the microscope reveals even more. We are finally confident in saying that red lyrium (which as we know is alive) has been infected with the Blight. Though both the Blight and lyrium existed in this world before the Breach, and red lyrium existed as well, it has only been after the Breach that the growth of red lyrium has accelerated rapidly. While it is possible to blame the Red Templars for this, my theory is that the way an Archdemon is said to spread the Blight is similar to how Corypheus's red lyrium dragon is doing the same. Perhaps through some combination of the weakened Veil and the dragon, red lyrium has spread more quickly than the Red Templars themselves could sow it. This is, I stress, only a theory on my part.

Now that we know this information, the only current course of action I see is to continue with use of cleansing runes on both weapons and armor, as destroying the red lyrium dragon is a task for more than just my project alone. I trust the Division Heads will distribute this information to the parties they see fit to know.


Respectfully,
Knight-Enchanter Delacroix

[esquive]

SUBJECT: Dangerous Game
PARTICIPANTS: Marcoulf, Kylo Ren, Anna, Etienne
DATE FILED: Pre-Ghislain, late-Harvestmere
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: Tasked with clearing bandits from Comte Chantral de Velun's lands, the team tracked down, destroyed and cleared the camp (ex-population: refugee elves).

REPORT:

[Written in an well-practiced, downright scholarly hand:]

Commander Coupe,

As charged, myself with rifters Kylo Ren and Anna ---- in the company of Doctor Beaumanior made our way to the Comte Chantral de Velun's estates for the purpose of clearing bandits from those woods or wherever they might be. Having met with the Comte's household, we were informed that the bandits had caused some destruction and grief about the estate and nearby village, including theft and property damage. Having no prior knowledge of the camp's exact whereabouts as the Comte's men had not been tasked with resolving the issue, we instead learned of some likely direction from a villager in the road, made our way into the wood and there discovered the encampment.

The camp's population appeared to be a dozen elven refugees who still had in their possession some token stolen items. Unable to convince them to leave the wood, the camp was cleared and burned, and items of any value returned to the village so their owners might be found. Two children - I believe elf-blooded - were recovered whole and given into the care of the Chantry near Velun.

- Marcoulf deRicart [With an X signed beside it in a heavy hand.]

NOTES & LINKS: LOG

Ghislain Reconnaissance

[nadasharillen]

SUBJECT: Ghislain Reconnaissance
PARTICIPANTS: Nahariel Dahlasanor
DATE FILED: upon Inquisition arrival in Ghislain
STATUS: Complete
SUMMARY: Nari went two days early under the auspices of her particular skillset to pose as an itinerant worker to judge the defensibility of the town itself.

REPORT:

Commander:

My observations of the town's structure below. Please find them marked correspondingly on the attached map.

All walls of the town have been well upkept, but largely for aesthetic appeal rather than with an eye to sturdy defensiveness. If we need to retreat to them they will hold, but not under significant barrage. The northern and eastern sides are best constructed, and will last longer.

There is construction of several new homes being quickly undergone in an attempt to finish before the onset of winter, and thus a stockpile of available timber and stone that can be taken from for barricades if necessary.

Closer to the town center and in the poorer districts to the south the streets are more narrow and would be good places to try to funnel invaders into to cause bottlenecks for the archers or mages to take advantage of.

Unfortunately (to the above), Orlesian architecture favors high gables and, as a result, steep roofing. It will be difficult and dangerous to position archers or mages on the tops of houses.

The outlying farmlands are obviously vulnerable and most likely indefensible, but I've marked a few areas with barns and other structures that are positioned in our most likely route back to the town that can be used as brief shelter to fire from behind, guard our footsoldiers from enemy fire, or be used as places of ambush for skirmishes if our enemy breaks ranks to pursue.

I will make myself available for further report if you have tactical questions that I've not addressed.

-- N Dahlasanor

[ attached to the report is a map of the town and surrounding settled land outside the walls with the information written about neatly labeled ]

NOTES & LINKS: hi, this is my mini-report

[limier]

SUBJECT: The Ghislain Circle (War Table Assignment)
PARTICIPANTS: Coupe + Thor, Fingon, Gareth, Kostos
DATE FILED: 11/10
STATUS: Ongoing
SUMMARY: A small team investigated the abandoned Ghislain Circle, to recover artifacts and investigate its potential use in the upcoming battle. They decided to trap it. They also returned word of a dead Chantry sister, dispatched an Arcane Horror, and recovered various items for the Inquisition.

REPORT:

To whomever will inevitably succeed me, or Voss:

There is little purpose in filing this for myself. Such is the nature of bureaucracy.

I could describe the structural instability of a lower floor of the Circle, and its limited damage to others. I could assure any future readers that the few corpses (animate and otherwise) have been dealt with, or I might enumerate the artifacts recovered.

But rather: How is your day going, Knight-Enchanter? We do not speak enough in a personal manner — or so I am certain that your friend de Vivas would insist. Enchanter Averesch would insist upon the opposite, but he demonstrated remarkable restraint in not pulling the bloody stones out by hand. I trust we've all gotten that out of our system.

We are making arrangements to lay the thing full of traps; if civilians are diverted, ensure it be by another route. I will inform the Comte (the cat is now out of that bag), that we've no unfortunate decisions to move troops within.

I am remaining in Ghislain to oversee preparations. Until you join us, you've command. I would take it as a kindness that you not knock off our own fortress.

Regards,
— Ser Coupe.

NOTES & LINKS:

Log