The Obsidian Guard

The Obsidian Guard is a small but elite branch of the Veldonian Guard whose sole task is the guarding of the many access points to Ker Nethalas spread across the city, both to avoid anyone going down, but most importantly, to fend off any horrors wanting to climb to the surface. Named after the all-black armor and gear they wear, members of the Obsidian Guard are often veterans of the Veldonian Guard that have distinguished themselves in combat, making them experienced combatants.

The Obsidian Guard was founded in the aftermath of the Great Pestilence, a catastrophic conflict that erupted when the necromantic horrors of Ker Nethalas threatened to spill into the city. In response to the relentless tide of undead, a coalition of warrior monks, paladins, and arcane scholars formed an elite order dedicated to safeguarding the city's entrances to the vast necropolis. Over the centuries, the Obsidian Guard evolved into a highly disciplined and revered military order that is indispensable to the city’s safety. Although already veteran combatants once they join, their members receive further training in both martial and arcane arts, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the myriad threats emerging from the necropolis. They have developed a unique fighting style that combines traditional combat techniques with necromantic countermeasures, making them formidable opponents against the undead, the most common threat emerging from Ker Nethalas.

Important Events

• The First Sealing (Year 3122 SE): Shortly after their formation, the Obsidian Guard undertook the monumental task of sealing the primary entrances to Ker Nethalas. Using powerful enchantments and ancient rituals, they erected obsidian barriers infused with protective wards. This event marked the beginning of their unending vigil.

• The Plague of Shadows (Year 257 TE): A mysterious plague spread through Veldonia, causing the dead to rise from their graves. The Obsidian Guard played a crucial role in containing the outbreak, combating the necromantic force behind the plague, and restoring peace to the city. Their heroic actions during this crisis solidified their reputation as Veldonia's protectors.

• The Night of the Black Moon (Year 301 TE): On this ominous night, the barriers weakened, and a horde of undead surged forth from Ker Nethalas. The Obsidian Guard, joined by Veldonia's militia, fought a desperate battle to push back the undead and reseal the necropolis. Their unwavering determination and strategic brilliance prevented a full-scale invasion and saved the city from certain doom. It is still uncertain who was behind this clearly orchestrated attack.

Present Day

In the present, the Obsidian Guard continues their relentless watch over the necropolis, although corruption has seeped into the organization, as is the case with any other Veldonian organization. This has allowed unscrupulous elements to delve into the depths of Ker Nethalas in search of whatever dark power lies down there. Furthermore, recruitment into the Guard has reached a historical low, with many once-protected entries to the necropolis now used as glorified garbage disposal spots by the local populace due to the lack of Guards. Still, many in the organization remain ever vigilant, still honoring their oath to protect Veldonia from the horrors below and to prevent any foolhardy souls from venturing into the cursed depths of Ker Nethalas.