What You Missed - Black & White 2026

 by: Nataliya "Shader" Kostenko

Black and White is my favorite event! A lot of that is probably nostalgia, since it was also my first ever Realms event many years ago (Luke John keeps trying to tell me how many exactly, but I don’t want to hear that vile fact). It’s the best because it has a little bit of everything and has both a chill but also somehow break-neck pace. 

I spent the first couple of hours of the event blacked out–that might be when I agreed to write this–and all I personally remember from that time is vague wraith shapes. ((Editor's note: They agreed at the end of the night.)) Seems fine. I hear that while that was happening, Johan beat out Styx to become the Champion of Chimeron! Great job Johan, you’ve really come a long way as a fighter. After that was Huntress practice; if only all those people fending off the cool, powerful, and extremely suave wraiths could have practiced instead.

After that was tournaments! Tournaments! Woo! Woo! Juniorsaurus was very helpful–he played the role of both fireball and assistant goalie. I was probably less helpful, but I had a great time! It was like flashing back to high school soccer practice, where I was also not very useful. My particular favs were warlords and dragon fights (though the dragons were missing their sacks of gold). 

After that I participated in a very secret, very exclusive tea ceremony with Kwido and Grindin. A lot of tea ended up on the ground, but Caleal never came close enough for me to splash him with it. I triple-fisted hot tea, cold tea, and poison punch–hydration is important. 

I hear Val-Dara court took place around this time, I missed that but congratulations to Corvus joining up! An additional congrats to Jasper for his bananas foster cookies, which won out in the baking contest. Then a very exciting and packed court: Cressida took her place among the Knights of the Lunar Aegis, Shalindra got Peacocked, the Royal Bards quintupled in size, Fern and Jericho became Knights of the Sable Dragon, Phee was honored as Magus, and Ryu was told that she has a year to master all 4 elements before she becomes the Avatar. 

Unfortunately I missed it, but I hear there was also a THIRD(?!) court–fae court–complete with drama, intrigue, murder, and the Knight of James Swift as Knight Protector of Fae. Why wasn’t there anything as exciting as murder at the court I attended?! I did, however, witness the suspense of Ashenmark trying to win the Grand Prize of the auction–the shark slides that Grindin went home with. Also the very moving and thoughtful commemoration (abomination?) that Caleal created to honor the Star People sacrificed in the Bedlam Wars (hopefully pictured being modeled by maybe-Kwido-maybe-Alpacasaurus). 

Then I got to dance the night away! Always a particular highlight for me at this event. Juniorsaurus and Avendar were two of the best duchesses to toss in Toss the Duchess. Though he came away with many a black ticket, it’s probably good that the dinosaur didn’t win anything in that auction. It was mostly very nice alcohol and he’s underage. I’m very happy with the mittens I walked away with, though.

That’s just a small fraction of the many things I’m sure happened to everybody at Black and White! This event can be whatever you want it to be–see you all there again next year. 

[Pi as Kwido/Alpacarus wearing Caleal's Star Person mask sitting on the Chimeron Royal throne]

Why I Want To Go - Feassst of the Gorgon 2

 By Anna "Hedda"

Last year I helped Esper from the relative safety of the kitchen. I assisted in preparing her remarkable creations and witnessed firsthand the confusion, curiosity, and occasional alarm they inspired. Judging by some of the reactions, the culinary traditions of my homeland may differ somewhat from those of the wider realms. Still, it was rewarding work, and I left with a greater appreciation for both the craft and courage involved in serving such innovative cuisine.

This year, however, I hope to experience the feast from the other side of the stove. After spending an event crafting unusual delicacies for others, I find myself eager to sample the latest fruits of Esper's research firsthand. Any meal that requires reassurance from an ethics board is a meal worth investigating. I am especially interested in seeing what new boundaries of Snakeromancy have been crossed in pursuit of academic advancement and a good dinner.

The conference itself also offers an opportunity too intriguing to ignore. Rumors from the Obsidian Necropolis speak of missing Guardians, unanswered questions, and growing tension between those who seek to preserve history and those who seek to uncover it. Such mysteries demand curious minds. Whether assisting in research, delving into forgotten passages, recovering artifacts, or helping piece together what has become of the missing Guardians, I would gladly lend my efforts to the cause.

I will confess that few things capture my attention faster than the promise of a forgotten tomb and the possibility of an interesting relic hidden within. Curiosity has led me into more than a few questionable situations over the years, and it will likely continue to do so. There is something irresistible about uncovering a fragment of history and imagining the stories it might tell. Still, while I would be delighted to discover some lost treasure of historical significance, I have little desire to become the latest example cited by the Snake Guardians when explaining why they do not trust academics. If ancient secrets are to be uncovered, I would rather do so with care, respect, and perhaps enough diplomacy that nobody hisses at us afterward.

Beyond that, conferences such as this are among the finest opportunities to exchange ideas with fellow scholars, adventurers, and seekers of knowledge. New discoveries are rarely made alone, and there is much to be learned when talented minds gather around a common question, especially when accompanied by several courses of experimental cuisine.

In short, I seek knowledge, adventure, good company, ancient mysteries, and several courses of potentially questionable but undoubtedly memorable food. I hope to help solve the mystery of the missing Guardians, learn from those gathered at SnakeU, and perhaps uncover a piece of history along the way. Should we leave with answers, all the better. Should we leave only with new questions and very full stomachs, I would still consider the journey worthwhile.

Whan-Hedda con Atlantis of Blackwood

2026 Q3 review of The Community S.P.A.R.K. Initiative

Organized by: Nixon "Jasper" Showalter

Hello to the Realms Community! Welcome to the Q3 review of The Community S.P.A.R.K. initiative, looking to Spotlight: Passion, Achievement, Recognition, Knowledge and more with the intent to provide an anonymous place to shout-out our peers within the community. Each quarter, we will be releasing a review of all of the Sparks submitted so people can catch up and see what our amazing community members are up to! Below is the 2026 Q3 Review, containing all of the Sparks shared from July through September. Thank you to everyone who took time to recognize someone with a Spark, and to everyone who works to uplift and support this community. If you want to submit your own S.P.A.R.K. fill out the form HERE.

Ryan Keller / Garen

I love it when the realms feels like a fleshed out world with diverse places, magics, and people. Your sassy, powerful, and scary wizards running around chimeron and through half a million discord servers has just been a delight- partially cause we get to see all the little details and world building from various groups. (Blue town’s antiteleportation ward, and the goblin maids at the Harkon estate come to mind) 

Thank you for the fun.

Karter Learned / Thyme

You were a rock star!  Not only did you tire out Travis by running him around in circles, you hid so well that he couldn't find you!  Keep it up!

Nate Carr / Aelias

It always amazes me how you come up with various solutions to deal with the problems at hand.  You work selflessly to help others when they are in trouble and constantly check in and work with everyone so they know what to do and what needs to be accomplished?

Nixon Showalter / Jasper

If there's one thing that stands out about Nixon, it's how genuinely invested they are in the people around them. They bring an incredible amount of positivity wherever they go and never hesitate to help, whether they're wearing a staff hat or just jumping in as a player. Nixon has a way of making others feel supported, seen, and valued, and they do it without ever asking for recognition. Their willingness to be there for anyone, combined with their constant good energy, makes a lasting impact on this community. Nixon truly embodies what it means to lift others up, and that's something worth celebrating.

Sawyer Judkins / Jericho

Sawyer, your enthusiastic presence brightens events!  You are kind and generous with your time and support of both players and eventholders.  Your energy, interest and infectious smile make the Realms a better place.  

Bennett Brown / Bella

We don't often cross paths but you participated in several rituals at the night quest KoH, and you helped immensely. You were willing to trust in others and you utilized your resources well. Proud of you!

Brooke Tilton / Rowan

You were very focused on the night quest of KoH and were one of the folks instrumental in the sigil creation. Thank goodness for your CoP and Circle of Healing. Plus your store "Rowan's Rarities" presence at events always make me smile. 

Kanik Hollan / Corvus

Thank you for your part in several rituals at the night quest of Knaves of Heart, you were an immense help! Seeing you at events I feel more confident there is at least one person interested in figuring out what's going on and willing to share it.

Amber Fox / Tarnisha

Amber, you are already renowned as a skilled seamstress, costume designer and fiber arts goddess.  This spark is to highlight your most recent gift to the game, namely a bunch of NPC pouches complete with draw strings and belt loops.  They came in clutch this weekend when some of the NPCs had some fairly large drops.  Thank you!  

Emiko Peck / Crane

Emiko did an incredible job politely and consistently reminding people about sunscreen and bug spray, a very easy thing to not think about when you're busy.

Quiet acts of service like that are wonderful.and appreciated

Emiko Peck / Crane

Your diligence in information gathering and ensuring others know what is going on is incredible. You strive to get not just the big picture, but specific phrasing and things that matter, in a way which makes it easier to understand and remember important things going forwards. Thank you for all you do. 

Kelly Perfetto / Fern

There are many fighters in our game who can be overwhelmed at times by the magic system. So a prominent fighter who is also able to step into the role of magic marshal in a plot which has a lot of prominent ritual casters as players is really difficult and impressive. From fighting and teaching others to fight, to kitchen work and magic marshaling, you are able to embody many facets of our game and its really nice to see.

Hillary Fotino / Tara

You are always so compassionate, honorable, and trustworthy both in and out of character. It has been really nice to have more opportunities as of late to quest both with and against you.

Kanik Hollan / Corvus, AJ Theis / Achaeus, and Fin McMurtrie / Second

Welcome to the wonderful world of the western flank!  You took your first leaps into NPCing a multi-day, busy event, and you did so great!  You were attentive, thoughtful, safe and honorable, totally fun, and willing to help in any way.  You were truly an asset to the team.  Hopefully you will continue to volunteer in the future, serving as the positive examples that you already are!  

Meme Monday

 by the Meme Team

Conspiracy Monthly

 

Why I Want to Go - Black and White '26

 By and collected by Kieran/Kyra Barry

Or rather, why do WE, the community, want to go to Black and White?

"To spend time with family and friends." - Emma 'companion'

"I'm looking forward to being back where it all started, and contributing with plot." - Angel 'Aris'

"I'm looking forward to Black & White because it is overflowing with wonderful things -- the people, plots, food, fighting fun, dancing fun, there is so much going on.  Personally I'm looking forward to supporting people in leadership roles of various types, and throwing plots around like confetti." - Kathy Fey

"Well, I have to say, I’m interested in Chimeronian culture and I would also like to attend the fae court happening there." -Renée Lumineux || Alex

"The bardic showcase! Looking forward to hearing some live performances!" - Hannah 'Ryu'.

"Multiple fae shenanigans" - 'A human traveller'

"Well for one, plot closets (haha i'm in danger :D ), for two, first repeat event and black and white last year was fun, for three, to see folks!" - Russet 'Davit'

"Black and white is an excellent time to observe and participate in the changing seasons and repeating patterns of the Realms. I’m looking forward to seeing the bounty of treats brought forward, meeting the new adventurers who come to our gathering, and of course, crunching through crisp autumn leaves with my friends as we go in search of tournaments and quests." - Kelly 'Fern'

"Is it bad that the first two things I thought of are the chronomancy ritual I have planned, and hunting mortals through the woods?" - Zack 'Bogen'

"Spend more time in Realms kitchen, and try to win Champion of Chimeron." - Eric "Johan. He added, "Is it weird that I've been thinking about that one tournament all year? Yes, but still." - Eric "Johan"

"It's a cornerstone of the community" - Zack 'Bogen'

Regardless of why you, personally, want to go, one can admit the reasons are numerous and varied. A thread thrumming through it all is the sense of community that Black and White brings, whether you're new or been playing since the magic system was a fanciful idea yet to come to fruition. The stunning fall foliage sets an atmospheric mood for what is one of the social gatherings of the year, indicating a slowing of events til Leviathan rears its head in winter.

As mentioned above, at Black and White this year there will be a bardic showcase! From noon to 4p there will be bardic performances at the area where court in the evening takes place. The lovely Voutia and Alias organized this section for the event.

While there's plenty of questing about, it usually winds down as the sun starts to set to allow for players to change into their masquerade finery for court. You don't want to be caught without a mask, at least, as Death lurks about. If Death sees your face they can bring about your end. If that's your thing, live risky. Or drink the delicious annual treat of poison punch! It packs quite a punch. People with immunity to poison revel in their consequence-free indulgence of it. Or folks with resist death, regenerations, or friends willing to administer healing or appropriate potions.

Speaking of questing, Dan H who plays N is running the main day questing. A rumor put out related to the quest: "Rumor had it that a group of orcs has taken up residence in the caves under Chimeron. These "Dark Orcs" are said to be strengthened by some power, and react with violence to any spelunkers who trespass in their domain."

Additional quests might include fae, a hallmark of Chimeron, in addition to demonic activities. Surely all well and good things, nothing to worry about. Plus there will be a return of the Gift Giving Dragon box. Put in a letter per the instructions on the box, and you'll receive a response and maybe a gift.

This year's Black and White's baking competition is showcasing cookies made without wheat flour. NO PEANUTS allowed. Kelly who plays Fern is once again heading it up. While others are welcome to bring treats for the dessert table, let Kelly know, and insider sources indicate they've been spending the week preparing with their own desserts as well. Still no peanuts even if not competing. As always, the winner of this year's competition will get to pick the dessert theme for next year!

Once the main Chimeron court wraps up, (for other nations and groups hold court at various points and places this day), there is dancing, auctions, and desserts late into the night. Not nearly so late as some night quests, as the site needs to be cleaned and taken care of so that Black and White may be held here again next year. And the year after. And the year after.

When long running B&W EH was asked, "If you weren't running it would you still go to Black and White?" The answer was:

"Probably. Everyone goes to it." - Ian 'Bright'

What You Missed - Tournaments of the Blue Rose 2026

by: Joseph "LukeJohn" Yang

Tournaments of the Blue Rose was held a few weeks back and there was fierce competition for the Blademaster title as each participant had an excellent showing of themselves. I don’t want to recap the results as that can already be seen here:(https://viewfromvalehaven.blogspot.com/2026/10/tournaments-of-blue-rose-26-tournament.html)

Not sure if this has been done before, but I’d like to instead give an account of “What you Missed” from the mental perspective of a tournament participant and some specific things you may have missed about the other people in the tournament. 

Tournaments in general have an added pressure to them as I’ve always felt I’m putting my name on the line in some respects. Blue Rose is no different, especially since the winner gains the coveted Blademaster title. It feels like the lights are on and the stage is set. Anxieties skyrocket as there’s a “prize” to be had, and I have to fight in view of my peers and people I respect. What will they think of me? I’ve been training for years, and what if it’s not enough? That kind of pressure has consequences. It makes my movements stiffer and every action costs more energy. My attacks are more timid because what if they parry it, close the distance, then drumroll my armor down to kill me? My defense becomes predictable as I’m so used to retreating on the back foot when pressured and what greater pressure is there, mental and physical, than the Blademaster tournament right now? 

These are all thoughts I legitimately had during the event. However I write this not to be discouraging, but the opposite actually. The nervousness from disappointing my current and former Highlords, the Knights of Ashenmark, my Wyvern College students, my training partners, and anyone else watching is assuaged with this. At the end of the day, what they think of me will be the same as it was yesterday, last week, last month, and whenever the last time they saw me fight was. Nobody ever remembers my losses besides me. They do however remember my victories. In other words, the people I love and respect will still love and respect me as long as I try my hardest, regardless of outcome. Tournaments are just fighting, and I LOVE fighting; it’s maybe my favorite thing on this planet. So just focus on my favorite thing to do and put the end results out of my mind. My body will do what it does; what I’ve been training it to do. If the practice wasn’t enough, then that means I get to do more of it. I get to do more of my favorite thing, and I fail to see how that’s a bad outcome. I’ll admit that the pressure does still get to me, but it’s important to recognize that those aren’t helpful thoughts and the ones written here can be used to reframe that pressure.

And now for some specific thoughts and observations you may have missed regarding competitors during the event:

• Killian: Maybe the most impressive performance I’ve ever seen in a tournament from anyone. Absolutely dominated the event and was both a pleasure and an inspiration to have competed against them and watched their fights.

• Daekara: A true display of grit and heart as they also did very well in spite of physical pains and injuries. There were moments where I myself would’ve thrown in the towel, but Daekara persevered through to the other side.

• Torolf: Consistently one of the trickiest people to fight against with their lateral movement and what feels like constant pressure. But I’ll be damned if I say it isn’t fun to fight against, and there’s so much to be learned from them.

• Anton: For as much as he and I practice with each other, I am consistently impressed with their abilities and the results speak for themselves. Also the efforts in their physical fitness show and it’s only getting better. I heard multiple people compliment Anton’s fitness and he absolutely deserves it.

• Shader: Someone who you have to be on your A-game to fight. Anything less and it’s over. Every mistake, even the tiniest ones, is something Shader will capitalize on and they push everyone to be their best, including themself.

• Grindin: An extremely honorable combatant with a deep bag of tricks and maneuvers they can draw from. They pulled off this single short parry/riposte against Killian that I’ve never seen done successfully in an armored fight before. Taking them lightly is a surefire way to lose. This applies to both days when they decided to armor up on day 1, but oddly chose not to on day 2. Still performed well though in spite of having no armor.

• Jasper: I am pleasantly surprised by how much Jasper improves every event. Their progress is incredible and that was fully on display at Blue Rose. I would wager that at this rate, they will be an absolute menace in combat and someone to be aware of if you’re opposing them (even more so than they are now).

• Cholsrea: For someone relatively new to the game, I thought they did spectacularly and have shown significant improvement since the last time we fought. They showed a very strong will to improve by being there both days and asking for specific training on weapon styles.

• Second: Similar to the above, it’s not easy to enter a tournament as a newer player against people who’ve been in the game for decades. Full credit to Second as they showed up with a great attitude, willingness to train, and courage to get into the weeds of tournament fighting.

• Varyk: Someone I haven’t fought against a great deal, but people spoke highly of their abilities and I can see why. In awe of their ability to fight in the phonebooth and get those inside shots in while maintaining their responsible defense. I had to have a side discussion with someone on Varyk as they were such a threat on the field.

• Jericho: We didn’t get to fight each other during the event, but they are one of the friendliest competitors around. Always lending weapons when the need arises. I do recall them being very effective at leveraging their height to get off tricky shots quickly, particularly with sword and shield. They also displayed phenomenal defense as getting around their shield looked to be an absolute pain.

• Raynor: I was only able to fight against them in Sword and Shield, but I remember being gassed after it. Their constant forward pressure while blocking shots was fantastic and the pace at which they pushed would tire anyone out. During the fight I distinctly thought “ I don’t know how many more rounds I got in me at this rate”.

• Bones: Respect to the madman as they went in as a caster on some fights against fully armored opponents and pulled off some victories. 

(If I missed anyone, I’m sorry. The event was weeks ago and this was an impromptu article from me)

As expected, the staff did a great job! Pilpus and Radstar did a just and terrific job marshalling; letting people know about shots they might not have felt in a respectful and unobtrusive manner. I know there was some questing, but I unfortunately missed it. Also shout out to the kitchen people, dinner was delicious and I didn’t know chicken wings could even be that large. Finally one last congratulations to Killian on Blademaster! You crushed it at the event and I don’t think I’ll forget this for the rest of my Realms career.