The Fields of the Undead

Moderators: Moderator, DM

Post Reply
User avatar
DM Soulcatcher
Posts: 8571
Joined: Wed Oct 05, 2016 3:40 pm
Location: Always in Your Shadow

The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by DM Soulcatcher »

ImageArtist: Lincoln Renall

Campaign in Fields of the Dead

Over the course of the last two tendays, the Flaming Fist battalions have managed to secure their positions in the Fields of the Dead, surrounding the infamous Vault and containing the spread of hateful, restless dead. Several camps have been made, some of which have been designated to host any additional volunteers or adventurers seeking fame, glory or gold.

Notably, a group of worshippers of the Triadic gods and one Jergalite, who tends to disturb some low-ranking soldiers with his looks and dispassionate disposition, have settled themselves in the camp commanded by Lieutenant Uria Delwer of the 7'th Company.

While the Flaming Fist are currently holding their position without much of any issue, there remains the fact that the undead, simply, keep coming back in larger numbers at all times.

Fortunately, however, no spectral undead seem to be appearing.

((This thread can be used by players to post their responses, rp coordination or update what their characters are doing in regards to the plot. I'd like to remind everyone that actively participating in this event chain disallows joining other overreaching plots with the same character.
~All Their Days are Numbered~
~Campaign Coordinator for 1353DR, 1354DR and 1355DR Metaplot~
User avatar
Genuinely Spurious
Recognized Donor
Posts: 87
Joined: Sat Jun 04, 2022 11:16 am

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by Genuinely Spurious »

As any squire would do, as they head off to establish the field hospital, Declan takes shovel in hand and digs a latrine some ways back from the camp in an area with no graves.

Once finished, he cares for the Triad’s horses, Taking the saddles off and removing barding. He would fill and attach feed bags, mostly oats, an apple to each before the bag goes on.

Once the horses are squared away, he sits and cleans saddles. Making sure all road dust and debris are washed away before applying a generous layer of beeswax. Using a brush, the bit and fittings are cleaned before being stored away.

At some point in the day, he breaks away from his duties to help with meals and the clean up after that. Going right back to his duties once finished. If able to catch a few hours of sleep, he’d be on guard duty for the remainder of any time he had left.
Last edited by Genuinely Spurious on Tue Sep 20, 2022 3:56 pm, edited 1 time in total.
User avatar
Genuinely Spurious
Recognized Donor
Posts: 87
Joined: Sat Jun 04, 2022 11:16 am

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by Genuinely Spurious »

((Press link for ambient sound))

Image
The rain crashed down relentlessly in sheets as the night fell over the camp like a thick ominous blanket bent to consume the men stationed there. It was well into the evening, dinner had been served with little fanfare as the staple of beans and chunks of beef were served with a side of stale bread. The only saving grace was the ration of wine given to the men who’s duties were done for the evening.

Declan had no such luck. His meal was washed down with a waterskin. He shared the fire with Gaven and Mae, Alexander, Simon and Mizzrym. Captain Dunn stopped by their tents for a short time, but had slinked off to do only the Gods know what. After conversations over who was doing what, when... Declan took spear in hand and left the warmth and security of the fire for the outer reaches of the camp. There he would set up sentry as he took his shift, watching out over the Fields for any slight movement.

His attention distracted for a moment as his hand covered in heavy leather gauntlet find the piece of cloth that River had tied to his scabbard. A smile find him as his thought are taken to her for a brief moment before snapping back to the job at hand. His shift had just begun and the rain continued to fall. Shuffling could be heard from time to time, just beyond the glow of the torches. Nothing seen, yet known to be there, close, waiting for one of the men to slip.

The candlemarks came and went as Declan recited in his mind everything from passage and prayer to stories he remembered from childhood, keeping his mind busy and sharp. Focused on the inky black beyond the flickering amber of the fires. Towards the end of his shift he heard footsteps approach from within the camp and a hand finds his shoulder, offering a few stout pats.

“Get some sleep, Declan. I’ll take the watch from here.”

A smile washes over his face as Gaven’s voice pierces the silence that had been his reality for the evening. Nodding his head, the young squire gathers his things and shambles back to the camp. Into his tent where unbuckles and removes his armor, piece by piece, before collapsing onto his bedroll where sleep claims him quickly.
User avatar
ValerieJean
Custom Content
Posts: 791
Joined: Thu Mar 20, 2014 10:54 pm

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by ValerieJean »

Image

After making sure Declan did move in the direction of the camp the Ravenaar man set his storm colored gaze upon the night before him. Armored hand tugged his hood forwards to keep the falling rain from his visage, shield strap was checked to make sure it was secure on his arm with hand and a half in his left hand. He maintained his vigilance for his shift along with any of the Flaming Fist. If they struck up conversation with him, Gaven would speak softly as he continued his watch.
Radrilla Imrae Helvi'viir
Gaven Arkalis
Micar'vilchi Illiathor - Dhaerowathi (Drow Bane)
Mia
Donamira
User avatar
River Steel
Posts: 47
Joined: Mon Sep 20, 2021 3:42 pm

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by River Steel »

Image

As Declan served beside the Fist and his fellow brethren, River kept herself busy,
both to serve those insuring the Gate's protection, and to keep herself from worrying
about her beloved and the others facing untold dangers in the Fields of Undead..

Hours had past and the day was slowly waning.
Large bowls full of shredded roast, piles of bread loaves and cheese sat atop her kitchen island.
Crates line her kitchen wall. Each filled with prepared and wrapped sandwiches. Each sandwich
was filled with shredded stew meat cheese and onions, each wrapped in baker's paper and tied
off with twine.. She had only managed to stuff fifty or so on her own before she began to realize
just how long this would take on her own..And so she wandered out into the farmlands, in hopes
of recruiting more hands for the task!

Lucky for River, Yuri, who clearly has the best timing ever, happened by and was already
looking for River to donate books to the library! River, in that moment, happily appointed him her
helper (Weather he wished it so or not!) and dragged the poor man off to the kitchen to assist her in
her sandwich stuffing task...

Yuri proved to be a wonderful sandwich stuffer and after an hour of sandwich stuffing the pair had
stuffed twice as much as she had alone, in more than twice the time! However, the hour continued
to wane and Yuri's time to retire arrived and he himself departed..

It was just about this time that Declan came home from the field to bathe, eat, and return to battle..
Seeing her blue strip of cloth tied to Declan's scabbard as he walked in the door meant more to her
than it ever had before, and the thought of it being out on the field with him brought a smile to her face.
She welcomed him home, greeted him with the same loving kiss and embrace she always had, then
took her leave of him so that he could refresh himself as she went to recruit more help..

Off River went once more in search of more hands! This time out she ran into Sean, who was equally
as happy to be dragged into the task of sandwich stuffing! He too proved to be great at doing so, and
the three of them dove right in.. nearly finishing off the remainder of the sandwiches as they stood
around the island, speaking of matters of great import.. She truly enjoyed listening to the banter
between Declan and Sean..

As sandwiches were finished, River turned in for the night. Tomorrow.. she would tackle the hauling of
400 sandwiches to the battlefield, to fill hungry bellies and hopefully boost morale while there.. She
having prepared a song to sing for them all!









User avatar
FearBeforeTheFlames
Posts: 173
Joined: Sun Jun 26, 2011 10:32 am

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by FearBeforeTheFlames »

Image
Art by John William Beatty
Set in a loose formation around one large, central tent - Alexander walked the grounds of the Triadic encampment - which was arranged as a support echelon for the 7th Company of the Flaming Fist to which they assisted. It was tireless work between the faithful to ensure the field hospital was well stocked and supported; a rotation of staff with skills ranging from divinely gifted to holistically trained offering to tend to the injuries of anyone within the camp - while martial forces assisted with guard and patrol details.

Alexander split his time between guard and medical duties - counting supplies and maintaining a daily log of usage, supplies on hand, and supplies needed - which would be provided for those headed back to the Gate with periodic convoy. To those whom sought treatment; would find a calm, kind voice and warmth of expression tending to their various woes with practiced hands, and quiet assurance that their suffering would be lessened soon. Instructions for continued care, and a bar of soap is handed to each departing soldier after treatment; to prevent infection and ensure proper healing in such austere conditions.

Long hours often led the Paladin to take rest in an unoccupied corner of the medical tent. Back pressed against supporting beam, head knelt against greatsword held between his legs; prepared to be roused at any moment should need of him arise.
Last edited by FearBeforeTheFlames on Wed Sep 21, 2022 12:37 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Alexander Marshall - Duty Bind
Fear "...I had hoped they had known me better than this."
Kordren Ivatrix - A Tale of Loss and Darkness
The"It is inevitable."
Aelrynn Valdrick - Hunter in the Woods
Flames"Hearin' alot o' that lately."
User avatar
DM Soulcatcher
Posts: 8571
Joined: Wed Oct 05, 2016 3:40 pm
Location: Always in Your Shadow

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by DM Soulcatcher »

Image
Artist: Unknown

A Grim Harvest

A detachment of the Flaming Fist, which was ordered to evacuate a village situated in a too close for comfort distance from the Vault of the Dead's area, had found a scene horrible enough to even make the few veteran soldiers in the group bothered and unable to eat anything for the following days.

Though scant in details, it appears the village's inhabitants have been harvested and what remained of them was put into one, bloody mess. One which was promptly reanimated into unlife as the soldiers investigated the gruesome remains. While the soldiers were able to destroy the monstrosity, questions remain as to why exactly the undead, instead of the usual act of killing the living and transforming them into more of their own, have ripped people apart and then carted some of their parts off.

It appears that some undead yet remain in control of their lesser servants.

The village was burned to the ground.
~All Their Days are Numbered~
~Campaign Coordinator for 1353DR, 1354DR and 1355DR Metaplot~
User avatar
BattleBee47
Posts: 145
Joined: Fri Jul 22, 2016 1:44 pm

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by BattleBee47 »

Image
A woman in purple could be seen fluttering through the camp during the day, taking supplies and essentials to those on guard duty.
During the nights she would be heard playing uplifting songs on her flute or violin to help raise morale. No matter the instance, the woman would be seen talking cheerfully and smiling brightly towards any and all who met her dusky gaze.
Maevyn Edgar
Battle Bardess

Astere Laroux
Sentinel of the Spellsworn - Member of the Ebon Blade
User avatar
Deathgrowl
Recognized Donor
Posts: 6509
Joined: Thu Oct 20, 2011 6:10 pm
Location: VIKING NORWAY!
Contact:

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by Deathgrowl »

The skull-masked paladin of Jergal keeps mostly to himself in the encampment of Flaming Fist battalions, but he regularly walks through it, offering the aid of a trained physician wherever he sees injured soldiers, and answers questions of his faith from those comfortable enough to ask.
Image

He participates in occasional patrols, but quietly, speaking only when spoken to. Even then, his words are brief. After battles, he inspects the fallen undead, looking to learn whatever he can, before he make sure to bury their remains as best as he can. To many he may seem an observer more than a devouted warrior, especially with his facial expressions always hidden and his tone of voice barely more than a whisper. To others, he may appear extremely focused. Dispassionate, yes, but unrelenting in duty.

When the undead assault the patrols, there is no hatred in the paladin's strikes, no rage. But there is also no hesitation. Only determination. Even the most intact or recent (perhaps even life-like) of zombies doesn't seem to give him pause.

The undead must find their end, and that is all there is to it.
Laitae Lafreth, became Chosen of Mystra, former Great Reader of Candlekeep
Nëa the Little Shadow
Obahzk Elf-Skinner, Blackguard of Gruumsh and orcish war drummer

Free music:
http://soundcloud.com/progressionmusic/sets/luna
User avatar
Flasmix
Associate DM
Posts: 2500
Joined: Mon Jun 29, 2009 9:22 am
Location: Cult of Skebbeton HQ

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by Flasmix »

Simon stood under the canopy of the medical tent while the rain splashed into the muddy ground around him. The light from the torches of the patrolling soldiers on guard duty gave him insight into the current time. New figures emerging from the darkness with fire of their own and sending other which had been stationary signaled the approach of dawn with the shift change. It would not be long now until he's relieved and he can move onto the next task. The monk's mind dwelled on the soldier's reports from within the massacred village.

Since his arrival, Simon's guard and field hospital duties have been primarily in the evening due to him being able to see in the dark, a useful trait thanks to his celestial heritage. Shift changes were the time he could speak with others in the camp before they retired. It was the ideal opportunity to try and provide comfort and ease the minds of those who are troubled or scared. It was a duty not assigned to him by anyone but one he took to be the most important. When Simon was instructed to guide the faithful left behind and prepare the next generation there were doubts for him to contest with.

He was a priest whose deity had perished. Torm's presence and the blessings which were once given had vanished. Before he could be expected to lead others, Simon had to find his faith once more. In the early days of his clerical training when he was becoming accustomed to having a link to a divine being he learned how to surround his hands in divine flames. For quite some time he was concerned with what may happen if he attempted it without that link being present. It was not until he was in the heat of battle with the comrades present at the camp with him did he feel the need to attempt it regardless of the outcome. It had worked. Torm was gone but the technique Simon learned because of him still remained. That is when Simon understood, though Torm is gone his word and teachings are still present. As long as they are remembered then what Torm stood for can live on. Simon's faith in the path was renewed and strengthened.

When Simon was relieved of his post he went to join some of the soldiers who were shaken up by what they saw. Their distress was understandable. He tried to comfort them with words of duty and justice.
"To be disturbed by what you saw means you are a good person. You do not want to see these horrific cruelties occur. We will find who did it and bring justice to these people." With offers of private counsel for those who request it. Torm's position in the triad was of the mediator, the glue that held them together. It was with determination that Simon sought to support the soldiers and his comrades.
Wirg to Pug: "Iz lat dun?"
Pugratix to a snarky militia man: "Mmmm. Not yet. I will live for hundreds of years and be heralded as one of the greatest forces of destruction on the face of the world. The only thing you can destroy is the outhouse."
User avatar
blazerules
Recognized Donor
Posts: 186
Joined: Sat Apr 29, 2017 7:43 am

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by blazerules »

As one of the battles participants the mithral Hedge Knight, known to some as Yuri Lichelina, is often seen out on night watch. Being an Elf his vision is unhindered by the dark and lack of sleep. Often simply standing completely unmoving as if locked within his armour. This seemingly being how he spends his nights now instead of whatever else he used to do.

Beyond that being one of the strongest people in camp is something he'd put to good and common use during the day. As he is more than happy to help with any heavy lifting around camp to reduce the troops burdens and aid in speeding things along. Less time hauling more time doing other things. His skillset being mostly limited to killing things and heavy labour means he is often out of camp, though not far, should things be peaceful enough.

Something he does put to use with a small free service of delivering letters back and forth from the Gate at a moments notice. The camp is not too far from the Gate itself, but constant contact with family is never to be underestimated for morale. Especially in such a dreary place.
User avatar
FearBeforeTheFlames
Posts: 173
Joined: Sun Jun 26, 2011 10:32 am

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by FearBeforeTheFlames »

After a gathering of 7th Company and adventurers witnessed a strange occurrence within the Fields of the Dead; and barrier appearing around the Vault; Alexander Marshall returned to the Forward Camp with haste; handing out soap to filthy, blood-caked soldiers and lecturing anyone he could find about taking a bath immediately to avoid sicknesses associated with contact with blood.
Alexander Marshall - Duty Bind
Fear "...I had hoped they had known me better than this."
Kordren Ivatrix - A Tale of Loss and Darkness
The"It is inevitable."
Aelrynn Valdrick - Hunter in the Woods
Flames"Hearin' alot o' that lately."
The Triadic Church
Posts: 10
Joined: Tue Jun 21, 2022 10:49 pm

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by The Triadic Church »

Image
As the wind swept over the rolling hills of the Fields of the Dead it brought with it the smell for rot, death and decay. Rain had poured from the heavens for what seemed to be days, creating a soupy muck beneath leather and plate covered boots. The men of the 7th company stood resilient to the onslaught of calamity that seemed to befall them at every turn. Those of the Triadic church stood with them. Shoulder to shoulder in this battle between life and death itself. Days turn to night, then back again as the troop moved among the Flaming Fist detachment. Helping where they could, lending sword and shield where wanted and a steady healing hand where needed. Each in turn having their part to play in thwarting the machinations of evil.

~ ~ ~


While the rains pour and the rumors spread of the Paladin's complete hair loss the same man can be seen walking amongst the Tents with the amiable lopsided smile, when he is not on his guard shift, checking over all from the Flaming Fist, to the Triadic Church to any others who have come to aid.

Storm colored gaze would look over everyone's equipment and arms making sure they were taken care of and if there was issue Gaven would offer assistance and speak on how keeping them maintained allowed them to do their Duty to those they protect. He would also be seen asking how they all were, gauging peoples morale and offering comfort.


~ ~ ~


Alexander Marshall could be found rendering aid within the field hospital. His position within kept him confined to the tented structure for the majority of his time on the front; tending to injuries and illnesses as they arrived.

It is said that the Knight has been caught on more than one occasion - sleeping in the corner between instances, finding rest in down moments to continue to serve as he may. He made use of the crates of soap delivered to the camp; ensuring soldiers were supplied and lecturing those whom lingered too long within the encampment on the merits of proper battlefield hygiene.


~ ~ ~


Declan would see to any and all tasks set to him from either Gaven or Alexander. In the midst of that he would seek out Brother Simon and kneel with him in prayer. Once his duties to church are complete, he’d see to the Flaming Fist. Offering aid in patrols and guard shifts. Help in moving supplies from the rear of the camp to the front and generally trying to get to know the men and women of the 7th Company.

What precious time he finds to himself, he spends maintaining his gear. Sharpening his blade and wiping his armor down with an oily rag. The wax of bees is melted down and into the leather of the straps, that same oily rag wiping over the buckles and clasps. He finds sleep here and there, where he can. Trusting his fellow soldier to keep him safe while he finds a little rest.


~ ~ ~


As Aramon stood the younger of the Triadic Knights Order, he was often seen standing next to Alexander Marshall or Gaven Arkalis, the young squire paying closer attention to instruction and guidance from his mentors. Occasionally he would glance out to the fields, the sight of undead bringing back horrid memories of his time in Thay, though taking a breath he would steel his resolve and look back to whichever of his Knights was guiding him at the time. This darkness had to be stopped, before it got more innocents caught up in it, and more innocents killed. A hand goes briefly to the holy symbol at his neck, remembering the oath he swore when Torm sacrificed himself to stop Bane. He would hold his vigil till the end. No matter how close that end would be.

~ ~ ~


On one early morning Simon sought the support of Gaven and the two squires Aramon and Declan. They set out into the fields with a cart to gather large slabs of rock to be the foundation for multiple tarp rain shelters. When they came across a large rock outcropping Simon got to work chopping large chunks of rocks with his fists. The rocks would then further be processed into crude rectangular shapes which the two squires and Gaven set onto the cart.

During periods of rest Simon would speak to the squires....

"There are many logistics to consider in a successful mission. Morale is one of the most important. The sacrifices we make today by working our bodies in these unfavorable conditions will improve the morale of everybody. The relief found in being dry while performing ones duties is the counter that helps balance morale. We are not meant to focus on just our own duties, rather, we must also look at what eases the burdens which prevent others from doing their duty. That is what it means to be a Tormtar."


~ ~ ~


In the midst of the chaos that surrounded the camp, within it was becoming a well oiled machine. One brought to life by their shared desire to see Baldur’s Gate safe. While the Vault loomed in the distance, the forces that stood against it gathered. Tensions mounted as the days passed. Though they felt prepared, one never knows what might come to pass in the coming battle. They each leaned on the next because together, they just may see this through....
User avatar
DM Soulcatcher
Posts: 8571
Joined: Wed Oct 05, 2016 3:40 pm
Location: Always in Your Shadow

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by DM Soulcatcher »

The End of the Vault


A large battle erupted in the Fields of the Dead. The Fifth, Seventh and Eighth companies of the Flaming Fist have engaged numerous undead creatures, mostly skeletons and zombies, in order to contain them from spreading South and East. The fight was as expected; neither undead nor the Flaming Fist gained any ground. That is until the undead were sent reeling as if the core of their being was disrupted. Realising the opportunity as it presented itself, the Fifth and Eighth company pressed their enemy and quickly gained land towards the Vault of the Dead.

The Seventh Company, however, fought a very bitter battle. Against a nightwalker of exceptional size, many were killed or wounded in the struggle. Before a final blow could be delivered and the commanding officer of the Company was slain, rumour has it that Jergal himself appeared, cut down the Nightwalker in a duel of titanic proportions and set onwards into the Vault of the Dead.

The reports of what happened next are unreliable, at best. Many soldiers say that it was the most nightmarish place they've ever seen- that is if they speak at all. Supposedly, hordes of undead were laid low, their leader- a dracolich- destroyed. Some speak of some being of pure darkness, made of hatred and pure evil that descended upon Jergal, but the deity had annihilated it from existence.


The Vault of the Dead is destroyed. After it remains only a crater of what was the largest stronghold of the undead in the area. The Flaming Fist still remain in the field as there are yet active undead groups which need to be brought to an end, but many already hail the entire operation as a massive success.

A piece of good news in a world nearly devoid of hope.
~All Their Days are Numbered~
~Campaign Coordinator for 1353DR, 1354DR and 1355DR Metaplot~
User avatar
YourMoveHolyMan
Recognized Donor
Posts: 958
Joined: Fri Jul 10, 2009 5:11 pm
Location: Alabama

Re: The Fields of the Undead

Unread post by YourMoveHolyMan »

A wagon makes its way along the Tradeway, driven northward by a small team of ponies, and under armed guard. Its escort a motley collection of folks of all sorts of backgrounds, though all sport a silver badge bearing the (in-)famous crescent moon over shadowing a barren tree.

By the time they've crossed Beregost, a man leaving the William's Well was scooting out and to the road to catch up and lead the procession. Adjusting his wide brimmed leather hat, he'd hop onto the hot-seat and take over driving the horses on. Dunn joined his folks in the journey.

Some time passed and at least one or two nights were spent camped along the Tradeway with watch kept. The sellsword lot well acquainted with life on the road, and the season was holding onto the last vestiges of fall's fading warmth during the days. The nights, however, were already bitingly cold.

Eventually, destination was met, and upon the front between the Gate, and the cursed, damned undeath that threatened from the aptly named Fields of the Dead, the wagon's wheels came to a stop. Canvas was pulled back and revealed the contents:

https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/witch ... 0426183749

The Vanguard's lone ballistae, requisitioned during a job in another campaign. The escort went about setting up the wood and iron device, pointing it northward toward the impending threat.

After its positioning and set up is complete, Dunn sought the Lieutenant of the 7th Flaming Fist Company, Uria Delwar.

Quiet words are had, hands are clasped, and shaken, and Dunn gestures towards the ballistae during the conversation. Anyone in ear shot would understand the gist of what was said, Dunn was turning over the ballistae to the Flaming Fist, either before the battle, or after. No cost, fee, or strings attached.

The rest of the Vanguard escort talk amongst themselves. Some shake others, others embrace, a few make crude gestures at each other which draws out laughter from the collective. But eventually the laughter dies down, and a somber quiet falls over the crew.

Most of them turn south again - those foreign folk of Amn are due elsewhere. Some divert off for other paths and destinations, taking off their silver badges and pocketing them (one or two are likely sold off for coin). But several stay for the impending battle, to make their stand.
Michael Dunn

“There is more than one sort of prison, Captain," Chirrut said. "I sense that you carry yours wherever you go.”
Post Reply

Return to “The 1358 (2022) Campaign”