Conspiracy Monthly

 By Kieran/Kyra Barry

Why I Want To Go - Ashen Adventures II

 By: Sean "Eamon" Finn 

Many years ago, when I was still a fresh face in the Realms, I attended my first ever Ashenmark event with my friends. That event was Ashen Bounty II and it was full of good food, excellent memories, fighting baddies, guarding people, doing a massive puzzle made of concentric circles, and plenty of other surprises. We even got our first collective piece of armor at the end while waiting to be picked up, a shirt of “Chainmail” that was actually made mostly of can tabs that was tossed to us after Tucker came out of one of the buildings near the parking lot and yelled out, “Hey, do you guys want some armor?” I think we even still have that shirt floating around our loaner gear, in case anyone ever needs something.

Ever since then, I have always enjoyed going to Ashenmark events. While I haven’t been able to make all of them, I make it a point to do my best to make it to the ones I can.

Ashenmark always puts excellent effort into silly gags and serious plots, all at the same time, which makes it a joy to get involved with the stories they try to tell. 

In addition, they will oftentimes roll with a lot of the ideas we players have when we approach encounters, sometimes turning what was likely supposed to be straightforward combat into an excellent moment of roleplay and negotiation.

The combination of these things leads to me having more engagement with the combat and plot than I often find at some other events that I don’t throw myself into nearly as much.

In addition to the questing environment that is supported at their events, Ashenmark is also known for providing excellent food at their events. 

I bring this up because I noticed that, while this is not actually a feasting event, they have noted that there will be breakfast (I quite enjoy breakfast, if you haven’t seen my discussions about it in Realms community discussions), snacks throughout the day, and a dinner. This is something that I did not expect, but that I am overjoyed to see they are doing.

As for this specific event’s plot, I already feel invested in it after what we experienced this last fall at Ashen Bounty.

First, they wove the initial hook of their new plot into the tail end of their court. Then the next day we dealt with the immediate aftermath of the happenings at said court. There were a series of widespread issues including animals going berserk. We tracked down the cause of these strange happenings around town to the gift of a tree that had been given the night before. Once we found the tree, we fought off a series of enemies until we were eventually able to uproot the tree. Unfortunately this caused Magic to be suppressed across the event site. 

I greatly look forward to exploring the nuances and story beats of Ashenmark's new plot unfolding this weekend on the island of Elemirre, as we hunt down the cause of the troubles that their capital of Goldenhall experienced last year. I am sure that it will be just as fun as their past events, if not more so!

Rhiassa Tubes for Sale!

Hello everyone.

I’m so excited to make the official announcement that our latest Rhiassa Tubes (sword foam) shipment has been delivered from our oversees manufacturer and is ready to be distributed to the Realms!

For those of you who have not been in the loop up until now, the most noteworthy aspect of this new shipment is the Rhiassa Tube WB, made from the same foam material was the regular round Rhiassa Tube W, has the profile shape of a sword blade and will allow for the rapid and easy construction of more swordy-looking swords!

The Rhiassa Tube W, with a 1/2" inner diameter for the core and a 5/8" wall thickness.

The Rhiassa Tube WB, with a 1/2" inner diameter for core and a hexagonal blade shape.
At it's thinnest wall thickness it meets the 5/8" safety minimum. 

Many of you pre-ordered the Rhiassa Tube WB or more of the original Rhiassa Tube W. I will be bringing your orders to the following two events this coming month:

• Tournaments of Artemis XII (June 7)
• The Gilded Lion and Silver Branch Summer Festival IV (June 21)

If you cannot be at either of these events we can arrange for you to come pick them up at my house on another day.

Also at those two events I will be selling the extra stock I have of both kinds of foam for cash only, a necessity because I invested the money necessary to reach the minimum order levels to make this shipment possible.

• Rhiassa Tube W (round foam) will cost $5 each or $20 for 5 of them.
• Rhiassa Tube WB (blade shape foam) will cost $6 each or $20 for 4 of them.

Since the money I invested to make this order happen was from the account that funds Rhiassa events, selling the extra stock of foam would be really beneficial to helping to restock that account. Therefore, I will thank The Realms in advance for your patronage and hope that you will visit the Gilded Lion Ironworks shop counter at both of those events.

Gilded Lion Ironworks

We Who Smelt It, Dealt It.

Check out all our fine weapon making products

Thank you everyone for your help in making this project come to fruition. I am incredibly optimistic about how this new foam shape might make a tremendous impact on what weapons can look like in our game.

In service,

Jason Rosa

 

What You Missed - Feast of Chimeron 30: Dedication of King Orion

 By Anna "Hedda" Hewitt

To all who would hear the tale of Chimeron’s coronation, let these words serve as a record of the trials, triumphs, and revelry that unfolded. I, Hedda, set quill to parchment so that none may forget the journey.

Upon arriving in Chimeron, we found a grand feast hall prepared for the ceremony, decorated with vendors and displays of the kingdom’s history.

Looking around, I saw some dressed in impressive finery, while others… perhaps had forgotten to consult their mirrors before leaving. 

Food was served throughout the day, woven between the Chimeron court proceedings. One dish in particular caused a stir—a pumpkin soup paired with cranberry chutney, and that was just the appetizer! 

The coronation itself was a sight to behold. Each member of Chimeron placed their hands upon the crown before Orion crowned himself. The day continued with many meals shared between the different stages of court. 

During the second section, Chimeron’s sub nations came forth to swear their loyalty to their new king, and several new members were welcomed into the kingdom—Johan, Styx, Kalashai, and Voutiá. 

Next, the court recognized new officers. King Orion declared Ypnn as Court Mage, Ser Kovaks as Royal Advisor, Cressida as Royal Consort, Sir Makhta as Warlord with Ryu as their second, and Cimone passed the title of Captain of the Azure Guard to Rekees. Squire Griffin took up the role of Master at Arms, Ezmerelda  continued her role as Court Seer, and Sir Pawldo was recognized as an Avatar of Chimeron. To his great surprise, many stepped forward to honor him further, welcoming him as a Knight of the Eternal Flame. The standing ovation left no doubt that his efforts had been well recognized—though the sheer number of hugs afterward may have tested his endurance.

Then came open court, where rulers from neighboring lands presented their gifts—swords of fine craftsmanship, sturdy shields, food, drink, and even furniture fit for the newly crowned king.

Ser Vesper was then called forth, and much to his own surprise, Orion granted him the title of Sheriff of Chimeron.

Not all visitors came in peace, however. An emissary arrived under a white flag but bore only hostility, calling Orion the "Warmonger King" and delivering a letter to be heard but once. Demands were made, a sword was offered as a gift, and then the emissary departed. That, however, is a tale for another time.

With the formalities concluded, the evening was filled with music, revelry, and dance. As the celebrations unfolded, Ryu took the stage first, delivering a hilarious parody that lifted spirits and sent laughter rippling through the hall. Later in the night, as the mood settled into anticipation, the steady stomp and clap of the gathered crowd signaled the beginning of Squire Irri’s haunting ballad. Her voice rose, weaving a tale of King Orion’s destined reign—a promise of triumph and shadow. The rhythm drove her song forward, and as the final note faded into the pounding beat, its weight lingered, unchallenged, heavy with prophecy.

And now, to the food! Sir Mathies, the Feastocrat, prepared a menu that kept everyone intrigued and satisfied, with flavors both familiar and unexpected. While some dishes weren’t to everyone’s personal tastes, the sheer variety ensured that none left hungry. Plates were wiped clean, course after course, as Mathies and his kitchen staff worked tirelessly to deliver an unforgettable feast. Their efforts were honored with the gifting of Among the many honors bestowed that day, a particularly distinguished recognition was granted to five esteemed individuals—Lord Sir Mathies, Emeritus Queen Sir Jinx, Emeritus Sir K, Magus Sir Bright, and Baron DelHemar—all of whom received the coveted Master Spoon. This token of mastery was not merely ornamental; it stood as a testament to their dedication and skill. Three of these honorees—Sir Mathies, Emeritus King Sir K, and Emeritus Queen Sir Jinx—had lent their expertise to the kitchen, ensuring that every dish served was nothing short of a culinary triumph. Mathies, in particular, proved his worth beyond any doubt with a feast that left the court both satisfied and singing his praises. 

Surprisingly, this gathering did not conclude with a single sunset. We rested for a full moon cycle before rising once again to aid Orion in his connection to the land.

With the dawn, the adventurers gathered, preparing for the day ahead. The kingdom had twelve sub nations in need of assistance, and so we divided our efforts.

At Mckrye Pass, goblins blocked the way, hurling boulders with reckless abandon. With sword and spell, we pushed forward, rallying together to drive them back.

In Chimeron Proper, a frantic Beekeeper sought help—not for bees, but "Zombees." A hive of undead insects had risen, causing havoc. Given that necromancy is outlawed in Chimeron, we wasted no time clearing the infestation. Safe to say, honey from those creatures would not have been a welcome souvenir.

The Azure Guard entertained jousts and equestrian feats, but soon found themselves in battle against a lich, his skeletal minions, and even a kraken. By the end, victory was theirs, and Duke Sir Nos found himself in possession of the lich’s crown—though the question remains whether he should actually wear it.

At Whitestone Mountain, a goblin requested help retrieving items from the mine—though, unsurprisingly, they intended to keep everything for themselves. Sir Tuilli & Squire Anton Followed my lead, and we swiftly subdued the goblins, securing the key they had taken hostage.

With the goblins left in Chimeron’s care, we entered the mine, where Sir Tom Fulerey explained that Sir Makhta needed a full survey of its tunnels. Alongside gathering the valuable whitestone used for fortifications, we mapped the passages to ensure the area remained secure.

The journey was no simple task. We faced spiders, skeletons, trolls, giant frogs, and remnants of the Zombee infestation. The tunnels themselves posed dangers—some flooded, others filled with lightning strikes, and others left in complete darkness.

Thanks to teamwork and the careful notes of a newer adventurer, we documented the mine and gathered the whitestone needed to reinforce it. With our mission complete, we returned, ensuring Chimeron’s future safety.

At Gryphon Hall, we were called to free a trapped miner. Goblins stood in our way, refusing to yield even to King Orion’s authority. Negotiations fell apart, and battle erupted. Constructs and strange runes littered the cave, but we made it through. Upon freeing the miner, the cave itself began to collapse, forcing a frantic escape. Orion put his own safety aside to ensure that every last person made it out unharmed.

Bandits prowled Pax Tharkus, seeking to rob travelers and villages alike. They were swiftly dealt with, though one had the audacity to claim Evie and I were too poor to be worth robbing—a rare insult indeed.

Ashenmark recounted the events that unfolded in Felwood—an unexpected battle fought not with swords, but with a peculiar competition. The adventurers faced off against goblins and kobolds in a game that seemed to hold strange significance. Three teams formed: the Gobolds, the Parbarians, and King Orion’s own group. 

The game had only one sacred rule: “Forever, you’ve got to get it in there.” What exactly _“it”_ remained up for interpretation, but the competition was fierce nonetheless. 

At one point, Orion looked over to Griffin and remarked, “Griffin, you’ve done a good job screwing it up so far. Do it again.” 

Whatever the goal of this game truly was, Orion’s team pressed forward with determination. The challenge may have been unconventional, but it left its mark on those who took part.

Upon arriving in Darkvale, we were met with Earthshaker, a towering, ill-tempered being who viewed surface dwellers with open disdain. His conflict with Fern over missing kobold scouts set the tone for tense negotiations, as he demanded payment in return.

The cave proved hostile from the start, filled with aggressive spiders that left no room for negotiation. After cutting through their ranks, we found Estez, one of Fern’s scouts, trapped in thick webs. Freeing him was a challenge, but once he was safely with us, we continued deeper, where we encountered a group of trolls. 

While their speech was muddled, a potion of intelligence was employed by Sir Tulli they understood not our intentions. Quasar then turned the tides, her allegiance to Aurora proved useful, and she convinced the trolls to aid our efforts, using their strength to move boulders and clear paths. 

Soon, we reached a pit full of aspis, where we located the other scout known as kit and recovered the body of a fallen one. Recognizing its importance, Tempest carried it out to ensure proper burial. Just as we were preparing to leave, Earthshaker made his move—blocking our path and demanding payment. 

King Sir Saegan stood firm, refusing to be bullied into submission. Enraged, Earthshaker swung a mighty boulder, but King Sir Saegan’s resilience held strong, forcing Earthshaker to retreat. With the path clear, we left the cave, ensuring Darkvale’s treaty remained intact—diplomacy first, battle only when necessary. 

With our task complete, we departed, knowing that greater challenges still lay ahead.

Meanwhile, adventurers who traveled different paths assisted Cerulean Company, Rua Thar Cinn, Lux Solaris, and Qua Taereth Nunna. Their accounts will need to be gathered to complete the tale.

Thus did Orion solidify his bond with the land, and so we took to our carriages, ready to answer the next call to adventure when it arrived.

         

By Kieran/Kyra "Omri" Barry

To see the passing of leadership within a nation is a momentous occasion, to which Chimeron rose admirably.

It was so lovely seeing so many familiar and some new faces. Being the 30th feast, the food was not neglected for the ceremony of the coronation. Court intersped courses such that the attendees were not overwhelmed with one or the other. The italian wedding soup was yummy, and the meatballs, and the bread and honey butter, and the french tarts, and all of those were simply the appetizers put out at the start for people to pick at! And people picked them clean.

As a silly aside there was an ongoing 'Birth Day' party for the animal companions of folks, where in a mutual effort between Rekees and myself we came up with the idea for party hats with Nemo passing out the ability to speak for whomever wanted. For those who popped by the craft station to attend, the egg hatched and your presence there, and at the coronation in general, was appreciated.

While technically the casino was the very first activity of the event, the coronation was started by a regal procession of royal house members, within which Orion and Cressida were undeniably the stars in their matching enchanting silver grey outfits. With much pomp and circumstance the throne of Chimeron and its crown was passed on to Orion with the many blessings of its people. The fae even made an appearance with King CuCullain. There is a Queen under the Hill, a King over the Mountain, a Duke in the Court (or "King behind the Bar" if you ask nee King Alexander Cecil), and a Star on the Throne.

Somehow the momentum didn't drag with arguably the main event over with in the first half of the day. Between rounds of food the nations swore their oaths once more, and a few recognized new members, Styx, Johan and Kalashai for Gryphon Hall, Voutia for Felwood. Azure Guard passed its captaincy from Cimon to Rekees, a move that was a surprise to King Orion until Captain Rekees walked up wearing The Hat instead of Cimone. There was songs from within and without the nation. Towards the evening came a myriad of wonderful and thoughtful gifts, some more novel than others (ask King Orion how he's enjoying his sippy cup and the skull of an enemy for his beverages), and other court business, such as Sir Wil attesting his stewardship of Eagle's Rook and myself as a member of Eagle's Rook as I have been for the last few months.

In a well deserved recognition, Jerry Pawldo became both an Avatar of Chimeron and a Knight of the Eternal Flame. He's humbly stated before that he's ok with not becoming one, not thinking it was in his cards, and I'm glad he was proven wrong.

Much like the christening of a babe, there were good gifts and cursed ones. An Emissary of the Author nee Rexan came under a flag of truce and gifted a cursed blade with semi-veiled threats if King Orion didn't give it to a follower. What a jerk. Despite that the night ended on a note of merriment, with Princess Brynn leading some well known dances that one would see at a Black and White Masquerade.

The next day the attendees who remained were entrusted with helping King Orion attune to the needs of his people, and thus we travelled from region to region in various different groups. Rua Thar Cinn had an issue with its portal network which I found fascinating though ultimately frustrating for what felt like a somewhat pressing issue, so Crane fixed it with a Zaubermeld that I lent her.

Pax Tharkus had bandits attacking merchants and a warehouse. I encouraged the merchants to take Riverhawk maintained roads next time, and helped fight off the bandits. It was quite tedious as the bandit gangs seemed quite large, and our group was small even if we were hardier.

Qua Taereth Nunna was a more light hearted need, led by Mahkta. She wanted to consecrate a shrine to Rawonam, in the spirit Champion Shane. There was even a bar for refreshments, and yelling and throwing a bottle to the ground adequately evoked the Shane spirit to boot. Axe throwing, bear pits, corsican mug, the usual physical sports you'd expect. Though we needed to travel down the Rowan River at one point for a commissioned limestone block that was to be a cornerstone of the Rawonam shrine. Treacherous waters for sure, though we were successful.

In the end the map of our efforts showed Orion's influence had touched every corner of Chimeron, and his people had been heard. May this illuminate his reign and lead to prosperity for Chimeron.

What You Missed - Creathorne Questing

By: Jamie "Nos" Bancroft 

What a wild weekend to take the trip to Creathorne. Unable to make it to the annual Tournaments in Creathorne, I decided to take the trip a week early to visit Veit and friends in Creathorne, and boy did that trip take a wild turn. 

As we started our trek towards Graff, Creathorne’s capital, the questing party came across a collection of wild animals that were extremely aggressive seemingly without a real reason to be. They attacked our small party immediately but were fairly quickly dispatched. While looking for signs of why they were so aggressive I found a potential cause, but it was still puzzling. Within these animal’s entrails we found numerous pieces of gold coins and silver. Why, though? Surely we’d get that answer at some point, right? Wrong. Still don’t know why, though Veit should probably investigate that. 

Regardless, we continued! After many groups of animals were encountered and subsequently put down, we made it to Graff. I’ve made many trips to Graff and this was by far the most quiet I’ve seen the city. Beside our guide to the city, there was no one until we saw a group of young goblins running around who decided to initiate a game of tag with us, and what a game of tag it ended up being. The curmudgeons I was traveling with didn’t seem very interested in playing tag, but did play along for a little bit until the goblin decided to up the stakes a little bit and upgrade to knife tag! Of course, Saegan is not one to ever pass up a game of knife tag, so the games began for the day. Saegan made sure that the “it” goblin couldn’t tag us anymore.

Seeing their child beaten so definitively in their own game, the goblins who were apparently watching from a distance approached us aggressively, demanding answers. We healed up the young goblin whom Saegan tagged and tried to apologize to the older goblins but they wanted no part of it, and so the game escalated. The goblins all tried to tag us, but our party was more skilled and made sure that we were the superior taggers and that those goblins would never tag again. 

We decided to go to one of their camps to try to talk to them about making peace as the game had gotten pretty intense, but those goblins also only wanted to join in the game! Again, our party came out on top, unsurprisingly. We were really getting a hang of this game of tag. As they laid resting after a vigorous game of knife tag, we noticed some pieces of paper that the goblins were holding. They seemed like a blueprint of some sort but we weren’t sure as to what. The pieces shown in that blueprint were scattered around us so we gathered those as well and headed back to Graff to solve the puzzle.

Once the pieces of the blueprint had been fit together it appeared what we were to make was some sort of communications tower, so we began building. After a lot of teamwork, and solid knot tying skills from 404, our communication tower was built! It was definitely strong enough to withstand any amount of pressure and the wind itself definitely wasn’t going to knock it over. After a few seconds of this device powering up, the antenna at the top quickly shifted to the side and pointed us to where we needed to go (which it was obviously supposed to do)! Excitedly, the party headed off towards the next destination of our game of knife tag. I’m pretty sure we were winning at this point. 

When we reached the next destination it was obvious to us that we had found the goblins’ blacksmithing setup, which seemed quite advanced for the goblins we were embattled with. Never-the-less, the goblins’ trap worked and they ambushed us from all sides. Alas, the goblins were no match for our elite knife tag squad and we quickly bested the first wave of them. They all seemed to be carrying some sort of ore on them which was definitely another added layer to this game. Clever goblins. 

As more and more goblins laid siege upon us, we continued to gather up their ore and use the anvils to refine it. With each piece gathered and placed into the bucket we found for safekeeping, the statues watching over this place seemed to gain more and more power. By the time the goblins had given up on this location and we refined the last piece of ore the goblins had on them the statues seemed like more than statues. Lo and behold, as we put the last refined piece of ore in the buckets the statues hummed to life, revealing themselves to actually be clockwork golems! They ferociously attacked us, clearly not thrilled that we had thwarted the goblins' well planned ambush, but we were once again able to defeat them. Each golem held a piece of ore that I combined on the anvil and attempted to refine them as I had with the previous ore we had found but it was soon clear that I was not the one meant to forge this great item. 

While I didn’t come to Creathorne with a plan to get involved in such a massive version of a children’s game, I wasn’t disappointed with that development either. What I hadn’t expected, however, was that these goblins were so thoughtful and kind. We spent the early afternoon collecting a communication device, gathering the goblins’ ore, smithing it into something else, activating these golems, and all for what? It seemed like a huge investment on the goblins’ part, and while they seemed to be enjoying the game (at least a little bit), I couldn’t figure out the “why” to it all. Why invest so much into this game with all of us, just to get beaten so bad? Why lead us directly to your resources, and allow us to use them all up? It made no sense. The golem trap had to have actually been laid for a less capable party with more nefarious intent, right? Wrong. It all clicked. 

The goblins were leading us on a quest to complete a coronation gift for Orion! How unbelievably thoughtful of them. Obviously, if I’m not able to finish the crafting of this item, Orion must be the one to finish the job. Orion agreed, took a giant swing of the hammer, and finished this magnificent item. It was really odd that the goblins gifted Orion “Da Gob Kabob” for his coronation, but it was a magnificent gift, and one that suited Orion very well. The goblins couldn’t have thought that gift out much more than that. 

With Orion’s coronation gift in his hand, the only thing left to do was to finish off the game of knife tag that we started. Despite their generosity we were not going to lay down and let them win so easily. So off we went to lay our own ambush on their village. The goblins were going to learn that day that elite adventurers of the Realms are not ones to start games of knife tag with. But first, nap time (at least for me). 

On our way to the next destination we took a small rest to make sure everyone had enough water and were well rested going into what was surely going to be the culmination of this great game. Our party rested just outside of sight of the camp but its presence was undeniable. We waited anxiously, taking a long rest before our set ambush. For me it might have been a little bit longer as I woke up to our party starting the ambush without me. Seeing the ambush taking place I jumped up and joined the party, tagging every goblin in sight and making sure they couldn’t tag us back and that’s when I locked eyes with one vicious goblin, stronger and more aggressive than the rest. I knew what needed to be done and was locked into what was seemingly an unwinnable fight. Back and forth we swung, me with my 18” dagger, them with a shield and hammer. Overmatched, I fought my best and gave it my all yet I couldn’t overcome this monster of a goblin but I held my own. As our party won the rest of the fight around me my archenemy looked into my eyes and said “You’re good, but I’m better” and then turn and fled from the camp. I was shook. 

Knowing we had conquered this camp and thinking we had won the game we decided to head back to Graff and report our victory back to the people. Our path back to Graff was free of goblins but once again filled with wild animals; a sure sign of our victory in this game. (I’ll take this moment to once again remind Veit that your animals are eating precious metals and becoming very aggressive. You should *really* look into that.) The whole way back to Graff my archenemy pursued me. I don’t know what I did in particular but this little goblin was locked onto me, and seemingly cared very little for the other adventurers. I’m not sure he got the memo about the game being over as he just kept attacking. I held him off again and again as we made our way back to Graff and he was unable to best me before he fled again. 

Graff was finally in our sights and the day's adventures seemed to be coming to an end but as we approached something was off. The goblins didn’t give up in the game, they just decided to set another ambush! We got into Graff and fought back waves upon waves of goblins, including my archenemy, before they finally retreated for what seemed like the last time. I finished my final fight with my archenemy before he finally gave in and offered me the opportunity to play on the playground with him, an opportunity I graciously declined. With that, the game was won, and Veit thanked us for beating those pesky goblins and getting them to back off the city.

I really just came to Creathorne to hang with Veit and company a little bit because I knew I wouldn't make it to Creathorne this past weekend for their annual tournament but man did it turn into so much more. I left exhausted and didn’t even get to hang out with any of the Creathorne guys. They’ll have to come to Blackwood some time soon to hang out because I’m not going to be going back to Creathorne any time soon and nothing bad ever happens in Blackwood. 

That’s my story of how my short trip to Creathorne to hang out with Veit turned into an extravagant game of knife tag with goblins who were just trying to give Orion his coronation gift. 

Thanks for reading, 

Duke Nos of Blackwood

Memorial Day

 

What You Missed - Invictus Tournaments II

Written by: Tom "Avendar" Gallagher 

Upon arriving in Invictus we were met by a a member of an order known as "The Fallen Star". He seemed very urgent to send us to help stop a demon summoning ritual.  The gathered heroes also got to meet a demon named Nixa who was eager to help in exchange for favors. We set out quickly realized that stealth as well as brute force were needed to work our way through a maze of demons and obstacles. We were met by powerful clockwork demons, locks to decipher and a few imprisoned souls that tested our moral fortitude.  Ultimately,  we finally found ourselves facing a demon of Despair.  It was wielding a great hammer and was quite powerful but somehow we were able to defeat it. We were happy to be traveling back to Invictus and the rest we would need for the tournaments the following day.

The tournament rings were waiting for us and as expected were quite challenging. We fought in all the traditional weapon combinations and a few that tested our tactics and stamina as well. The marshaling was top notch as always and the pace was constant. At the end of the day Lukejohn of Ashenmark took first place. 

My personal thanks to the marshals and all of Invictus for this great tournament and to the competitors who fought with honor and skill.

Why I Want To Go - The Dedication of King Orion at Feast of Chimeron 30

 Why do I want to go to The Dedication of King Orion this weekend? Well it's simple, it’s more than just a coronation—it’s the next chapter in the legacy of the Nation of Chimeron, and I wouldn’t dream of being anywhere else.

Though I do not claim to know him perhaps as well as others, I do know that Orion and I have fought side by side on the battlefield countless times, laughed through fun & difficult times, and worked tirelessly for peace & strength between and with our people. He’s not only a trusted comrade, he’s one of my dearest friends. His intelligence, empathy, and vision have helped served as a vital bridge to the relationship of our groups. To see his journey from Captain to King has been truly inspiring. Things like this are history in the making.

Of course, Orion has great shoes to fill. King Cecil's reign was marked by defining moments that shaped Chimeron and the Realms at large. However, if anyone is worthy of continuing that legacy and forging a new one of his own, it’s Orion. He is a seasoned warrior on the battlefield, thoughtful in council, honest in his beliefs and unfailingly kind in his judgments. I believe in him, not just as a leader for his people, but as a symbol of unity and progress for us all.

The celebration itself promises to be just as grand as the cause. Sir Mathies is preparing a feast that already has mouths watering, and on Sunday, we will be given an opportunity to join the newly crowned King in a quest to help solidify his connection to the lands and his people. I hear that he will be sporting an incredible new set of armor forged by Squire Ryu, and quite frankly the anticipation of getting to see it in person is killing me.

There will be laughs & stories shared, honors bestowed and memories made but in times like these, where stories are written with swords and sealed with oaths, attending an event like this isn’t just about ceremony. It’s about being there when the future begins and the past is reverenced. It’s about standing by those who stood by you. And it’s about honoring friendship, leadership, and the Realms we all call home.

For all these reasons and more (that I'm sure I missed), I’ll be at the Dedication of King Orion. I hope you will be too.

See you in the hall,

-Sir Elizah R.

Knight Commander of the Lunar Aegis 

Knight of the Eternal Flame

Knight of Blackwood

Squire of the Sable Dragon

OOC: 

*A Pre-Event Thank You to the team behind the magic*

While the in-character story and moments are compelling, it’s important to take a moment to recognize the incredible amount of real-world effort that goes into making events like this one happen.

Events like this are difficult, with so many moving parts reflecting countless hours of hard work by a dedicated staff and organizers. From plot and feast planning, to crafting props and costuming, to logistics, coordination and more, I'm confident that every detail has been thoughtfully prepared to ensure an immersive, memorable experience for the entire community.

Throughout the event, I urge you to keep in mind the folks you might not see at the forefront: the event holders, the kitchen staff, the plot team, the logistics coordinators, the artists and everyone in between who have contributed their time, talents, and energy. Events at this level don’t just happen—they’re the result of collaboration, creativity, and love for the game.

To those working tirelessly behind the scenes: your efforts do not go unnoticed. Thank you for helping bring the magic of the Realms to life; I am excited to celebrate with you come Saturday.

— Dani 

Evie's Letter

 

What You Missed - Creathorne Questing - Photos

 

The wild animals were quite vicious

 

Aww, the goblin children want to play

 

When playing Tag gets extreme

 

We built a communicator tower

 

Forging minerals into crystals

 

Oh no, golems

 

Orion earns a new toy

 

The final attack