Why I Want to Go - Exotic Items, Creatures, & Wares 5

By Derek "Hygar" Booke

To pit oneself against a mind such as Malthael’s is no simple contest of blade and spell. As the former Archangel of Wisdom, he presents a formidable foe. For the past several years, we adventurers of the Realms have found ourselves pressed upon every side. Malthael and his Reapers struck with cunning and persistence, in battles where our victories were measured primarily in survival rather than triumph. Yet now, at last, an opportunity arises to turn the tide. Before us stands a chance not merely to endure, but to strike and bring down one of Malthael’s greatest allies: Urzael, the Harbinger of Death.

The Exotic Items, Creatures, & Wares series is something I am very excited about. One of the biggest draws for me is the challenge of going up against well-run evil like Malthael. It’s not just about fighting a villain; it’s about facing an enemy that feels intelligent, dangerous, and deeply tied into the world’s history. I also love how these events create numerous avenues for players to engage with the plot in their own way. Whether you’re battling on the front lines, investigating the enemy’s strategy, learning new skills, or exploring the quieter corners of lore, there’s always a path that feels personal if you’re willing to put in the work to discover the secrets of the living world.

What makes it even better for me is knowing that this plotline has been built and expanded on for over twenty years. That kind of depth doesn’t happen overnight. Travis, Saturday’s EH, is a gifted storyteller who brings it all together, making the world feel alive, dangerous, and worth investing in, even if you think you know the history of Sanctuary and the Eternal Conflict. Most of all, I love the unique challenge that comes with Stonewood plot. Nothing is handed out freely, and everything is (sometimes painstakingly) earned. The victories feel weighty, and the losses matter.

So, I say to all who would see the Realms endure: take up your place upon the field of battle. Whether by spirit or steel, your strength is needed. Together, we may cast down Urzael and break the grip of death upon our lands, proving that even in the darkest hour, the determination and grit of the Realms does not falter.

See you on the field.

- Hygar Athame

What You Missed - Blackwood Tournaments XI

By: Kathy "Makhta" Fey

What You Missed by not being there when Makhta was at Blackwood Tournaments

The first night, we assembled to investigate a portal of likely violence, and before we set out, a champion with a fancy champion belt came and said we had to hang our esteemed foes’ banners and consecrate the nearby fountain so that we could engage in glorious feats of tournament prowess with whoever was stashed beyond the portal.

Now, as soon as the champion revealed that we would consecrate the font with a vial of their blood, I was psyched but the squeamish blood-magic-fearing people bugged out, someone stole the banners off the walls, and it took us seriously half the night just to get going.  You’d think a bunch of killers like us wouldn’t freak out at the sight of blood.

Anyway, we did get to fight a series of interesting and powerful foes with their minions, and some of them fell to axes and others when we wielded light (Orion was literally dripping green glow like a trail of bread crumbs), and the big final champion fight pitted our Cronin against a many-armed foe, to which he understandably fell.

So then our clever forces did some magic juju to get Cronin more arms, and I can still hear Ryu’s voice ringing over the mob chanting “Arms! Arms!” as the heroes themselves were transformed into Cronin’s new arms, which led to glorious victory.

Now, while all this was going on, some people got healed by the blood fountain, which apparently drained them by one drop each time, and kind of connected them, and then we found out that people who’d been healed that way a lot now have open wounds where the blood was drawn, that can’t be healed.  So people like LukeJohn and Anton and I think Cronin and probably Skamos are oozing now.  I never got healed myself, so I’m sure there are no lasting repercussions for me, after drinking like five cups of the stuff.

So anyway, the next day, there were a bunch of tourneys, some silly like fish slapping and snatch the wig, and many “serious” about fighting but not too serious, like Wil and Oliver’s truly epic showing in the great weapons battle.

I did the scavenger hunt, which had us collecting things’ homes and gems and friends and stuff.  There was some weird stuff on that list but I bet Omri found it all.

I ambled my way through the kobold shoot house, which was technically timed but I took my sweet time re-confirming for myself that I am not a magic missileer.  But hey, I didn’t kill the innocent captive, and I left with a snack, so fine by me.

Axe throwing (and knife throwing) was totally fun and after a bunch of after-the-tourney practice I got almost decent at sticking those axes so watch out people.

I did the ritual tourney too, since I’m a long-time sagely master of the arcane arts, where they gave you a bag of stuff and five minutes to work your magic.  I did a ritual to try to help the people with the open wounds from the blood font, no idea if it worked.

Then after stuffing our faces with Hedda’s excellent food, we dove into a party atmosphere with laughing, drinking, music, gambling and party games!

For games, there was Nay, Poxy Knave, which I was terrible at, unless getting Zarine to join me in mocking our more knowledgeable contestants counts as less terrible.

And Dark Deeds, which I was terrible at, unless you count finding out how much more horrible people think you are than you really are counts as less terrible.

Anyway, the games were a riot, and possibly even more fun when you’re terrible at them.

I was not horrible at the reflex catching game, and I actually kicked butt at the matching-flipping game, but that was only because the Baron bet me a gold I couldn’t beat him, which I probably normally wouldn’t have but I was broke so I was motivated.

Meanwhile the bar was serving up very delicious drinks, and great company too, although the rumors ran in reverse a lot (we told the bartender what was going on…or what sounded good anyway).

There was also gambling happening, a whole tent’s-worth, and I don’t know what they were doing but there were green tables with cards and big piles of chips in front of people and those die-hards were basically in there all night!

After the party games, the firepit came alive with music for dancing, and I have to say a big thanks to Mel and Swoop and whoever else was responsible for getting that going because I hadn’t danced in forever and it was so fun I can’t even tell you. 

The next day there were more tourneys but sadly I missed that action due to my affairs of state duties, but I didn’t hear that anyone was obliterated for all time so the day must have gone well.  

Cheers to all those who tournied and partied among friends in Blackwood!

Meme Monday

by the Meme Team

What You Missed - Blackwood Tournaments XII - Photos

 

It's not a tournament event without combat

 

Daekara in the Blind Ritual tournament

 

Winner of Emperor Shodarr's championship

 

May I hit you with my fish?

 

Wig snatching kinda looks like Thriller

 

Live music is always a treat

 

Bridge battles are serious business

 

Liar's Dice with a king's cup

 

Hand shake or "strap" match?

 

Potato has some moves

 

And the handing out of awards

 

Why I Want To Go - Exotic Wares 4.5

By Justin "J'ortsa" Thibeault 

Middas 3rd of Hearthfire

Khajiit has heard of a saying you humans have, something about a "needle in a haystack." Where J'ortsa comes from that is not a common phrase. But he does find that his upcoming foray into the lands of Stonewood are much like this proverbial haystack, alas it is more like trying to find sixteen specific individual pieces of hay amongst the haystack of Stonewood. As that is what we have discovered is needed to defeat one of the rogue angels lieutenants. Sixteen items of varying power and strength, scattered across the lands. Should we manage to collect all of these items then we will be miracle workers. 

Now thankfully the combined magicks of some of Voraniss' seers have figured out what these specific pieces of hay look like, and where they are located. Making our endeavors much more manageable. This one has heard of fetch quests, and he understands this to be one of the "fetchiest of fetch quests." So if that is something that calls to you, then we would ask of you to come to our aid. The 'Harbinger of Death' is not a title one recieves without merit. Any way we can weaken this powerful foe is worth doing.

The tasks to find and collect the items will be grueling, there is little doubt about it. There will be combat of the blade, spell, and mind. Puzzles that will challenge ones mind, enemies to put down, and Odd keeps saying something about "physical labor" so this one can only presume there will be heavy objects to move. Which if one thinks about it for a moment, it all begins to sound like something one would hire a "contractor" for... 

There is much at stake. The rogue angel of death grows ever stronger and we must strike while the iron is hot, else we will surely fall to the onslaught of the angel and his reapers. Or perhaps there shall be smooth sailing, one cannot be sure. But what J'ortsa is sure of, is that he will look forward to the conclusion in one weeks time.

J'ortsa of Rathkeale

Watcher of the Skyless Sea

Apprentice to the Horadrim

Rumors around the Realms September 1025

 

Rumors around the Realms September 1025

East of CHimeron 

Merchants report that countryfolk living near Blackwater are crazed with fear, several among them swearing they encountered a necromantic nightmare skull-headed beast stalking them through the swamps.

Mid Realm

Progress continues slowly on the study of the mirror despite the efforts of numerous scholars, seers and 1 paths with only combat spells. The only consensus they can reach is as the year presses on the reflections in the mirror are no longer exact 

CHimeron  City

Plants seem to be growing faster than usual in and near the city, with gardeners reporting having to cut back grass and hedges more frequently to keep them under control. More concerningly, some rats and other small animals have been found mutated, increased in size and covered in unhealthy-looking growths. There have even been one or two reports from citizens that "could have sworn that boulder was smaller before" - an inconvenient time, then, for some of the geologists staying in the city since last year's earthquake to have left the city.

West of Ligemad Sound River

The village hums with rumors of odd duplications that no one can explain. The blacksmith recalls hammering out a single sword, yet by morning two more lay cooling on their anvil as if forged in their sleep. The alchemist boasts of crafting a rare potion, only to discover twin flasks bubbling on their shelves where they swore they left just one. The mailman insists their route ended with the delivery of a solitary bundle of letters, though each household later reported finding multiples of the same sealed message waiting at their doors.

Meme Tuesday

 by the Meme Team

Happy Labor Day

 We at the View would like to wish a happy Labor Day to all of our readers. We hope you all get a chance to relax and enjoy the holiday. We'll return with the rest of our usual content tomorrow.

What You Missed - 17th Annual Tournaments of Chaos Ft. Tournament Results

By: Arthur  "Aiden" Granger

So to start, I should share something I feel is important to know: The running joke is that LUCK is my dump stat.

So as another Tournaments of Chaos passes, it’s fair to say it was quite a weekend. I walked into it as no stranger to chaos, being intricately woven into every aspect for better or worse in my time with you all. Those close to me know I collect yes/no coins and it's the time of year I throw judgment to the wind (within some level of reason) and let fate guide me through the chaos of a coin flip.. 

I should probably start with the chaos dice. With the company of others they are always a fun gamble. It was a miracle everyone on site wasn't entirely blown up and at the same time equally surprising everyone didn't walk away from them with godlike powers. This isn't abnormal but to say the collective excessiveness of the rolls i made throughout the weekend where without boon or consequence would be a gross understatement. 

On the first night, vampires were around, and seeing as I worked hard on a nice fire for everyone, I felt no harm in tracking a couple that had been freshly married to join in the group's festivities. Fun fact for the kiddies newer to these lands but once upon a time we would go back out on nightquests several times. Maybe your friend forgot their magic sword or you were short a friend and suddenly search teams would sneak out on reconnaissance. Me, I brought back vampires. Many would say that's bad but to be fair I would debate gaining access to the forge of dracula and kin had its allure for our side. Also who doesn't like new friends that are night owls, right? 

Day two was your standard (if you can call it that) tournaments many have come to know. Chaos tourneys always entail some of the most unique tournaments that you'll ever see. Oversized lightning bolts, unorthodox weapon combos and more were cheered by myself and other onlookers

As all forces returned to the fire the party really kicked off. Lupa opened their shop to serve drinks to tired adventurers. It’s one of my favorite times when I can walk around and see so many people spending time together in such a setting. After Kiddo and Tulli lit the fire, the evening was enjoyed into the late hours.

As you would expect, the final day of chaos is wind down time. Those who hadn't bowed out the night before from exhaustion and libations made their way back to the tourney field once again for the remaining tournaments and awards. I suppose you could say I failed upward with the first place win of the sneakiest person on site. I am a good sport, however, and if you can’t laugh at yourself who can you laugh at, right? Another year the wheel turns or whatever the cliche would be.

Results of Chaos tournaments:

El Classico:

Shandar

V-Power

Daekara

Sword and Shield:

Shandar

Aelias

Shader

Hand and a half:

Shandar

Avendar

Eldritch

Illegal Weapons:

Shandar

V-Power

Eldrich

One Combatant Unlimited:

Shandar 

Anton

Double Dagger: 

Shandar

Aelias

Avendar

Great Weapons:

Shandar

Eldritch

Mogar

Turtle: 

Shandar

Shader

Aelias

Longsword:

Shandar

Anton

Avendar

5pts to victory:

Shandar

Daekara

Aiden

Florentine (Marn and single short):

Aelias

Shandar

V-Power

3 Lives:

Shandar

Daekara

Avendar

Chaos Grand Melee:

Shandar

Aelias

Radstar’s Lightning Bowl:

Fancy

Shadar

Nikolai

Foamsmith:

Avendar

Fro

Most Honorable:

Lupa

Most Chaotic:

Timm

Most Lawful:

Laika

Most Shady:

Aiden

Most Badass:

V-Power

Most Helpful:

Anton

Why I Want To Go - Blackwood Tournaments XII

By Adrian "Cronin" Cronin

Fellow adventurers,

Let Summers final blessings be upon you. The transition of seasons can be hard, even for a druid as withered as I. As I make preparations for my company to assist in harvests across the many nations of the realms, I find myself gripping tightly to the leisurely summer I have enjoyed. The welcome shift in temperature calls to the armored folk, to camp fires and combat.

And so, I travel to Blackwood, as I have many times before. To take in their grand customs and hospitality, for a chance at glory. 

I am told Friday will feature the opportunity for a bit of excitement. A rift, opening in the northern fields. Sounds of despair and calamity, and the smell of blood have kept explorers at bay. I look forward to seeing what our collective may divine of this place, and to do battle with whatever profane beings dwell within.

Saturday, (should I survive the night) will be filled with countless contests of prowess and cunning. Many of which feature randomly assorted teams, which I cannot wait for. It is always a great opportunity to forge new bonds with my fellow warriors, and test my ability to adapt on the fly.

Creative solo tourneys such as “Wizard Duel”, “Wig snatching” and “Epic Swings” are going to be a blast to participate in as well as witness. I’ll do my best to take respite in a camping chair as competitive as I am, for I am told there are laurels for furniture as well…

Dinner will break at 6pm however a pulled chicken sandwich will be provided for dinner, and at 8pm…. “The Sweaty Owl Carnival” & "Blackwood Clontarf Casino" begins…

I have been a druid for nearly a decade, and never once considered whether or not owls sweat…

The carnival will feature many games of chance and guile as well as a chance to celebrate the victories of the day, alongside my fellow adventurers. A time to catch up in character and no doubt rest, after so much epic activity. It has not been the easiest year, and a carnival so close to fall reminds me of simpler times. 

Sundays tourneys begin at 11am, they feature many great realms staples as well as a few to “mix things up.”

Blackwood Tournaments is a great place to mix things up. It’s an anniversary to many epic moments that the members of my company reference to this day. Feats of strength, agility and guile as well as moments of pure community comradery. It is a place where valor is tested, where history is made.

I cannot wait to be a part of it.

-Druid, Commander Cronin Barbaria of the Broken Spears Free Company

Conspiracy MONTHLY

 By Kieran/Kyra Barry

You notice we never include the date on these?

Fresh Faces with Isaac “Four” Saff

This week we learn more about Isaac Saff, who plays 404, commonly referred to as Four (both he/him).

Photo by Brookelyn Tilton

1. How did you learn about and join The Realms?

I joined SMAS during my freshman year at WPI. After breaking my leg at the second practice I went to, I returned about halfway through the year once I had healed, and have been going to SMAS ever since. My first event was Training Day.

2. How many events have you been to?

Around 23 events. 

3. Have you ever LARP’ed before? If so, tell us about it?

I went to a day camp for a week that ran off an entirely different system, but didn't do much more between then and when I joined SMAS.  

 

Photo by Ryan Welch

4. What is your character like? Where are they from? What is their species? What is important to them?

Four is, by default, a construct designed to look human, but is full of gears and metal on the inside (there's also a plant growing inside that's a gift from a friend, and allows him to function in the absence of magic). He has met his creator, who is a dwarf living somewhere in the Realms, but he's not sure where he was made exactly. He's technically a construct, but given his newfound ability to shapeshift, that's not a constant. Four cares a lot about the people he considers his friends, which ends up being an ever-expanding group of basically everyone he's met who doesn't intend to cause him or his friends harm, and some who used to intend harm. He wants to see the world become a better place for everyone, and will refuse the idea that it's not possible.

5. What do you remember most about your first event? 

I tried to help fight a clockwork and it did not go well for me. If I remember correctly, I managed to lose both of my legs and was stuck without heal limb, as there were no healers right there. But it was really fun! 

 

Photo by Bri Meisser

6. What things have helped to make you feel welcome in game?

A lot of things. People are very friendly and I don't think anyone has turned me away if I go to try and say hi or get signatures for spells. Also, the fact that a lot of people are on Discord means that I've been able to interact with people in a less awkward environment, which makes meeting them in person for the first time a lot less difficult. People also have been very accommodating of the ways that my brain functions differently as I've been working through them.

7. What parts of the game do you find most challenging?

The game can often be loud, and sometimes stressful, which can lead to me being overwhelmed more than I would like.

8. Do you have any game-related goals (as either a player or character)?

I'm working on getting better at remaining calm in stressful situations so that I can be less of a disruption to myself and others.

9. What advice would you give other new players? 

Be willing to ask for help.

10. What have you enjoyed most about the game so far?

It's hard to pick one thing. This is an amazing community, and I'm glad to be a part of it. 

 

Photo by Bri Meisser

Meme Monday

 by the Meme Team

Why I Want To Go to The 17th Annual Tournaments of Chaos

by Jason “Aeston” Rosa 

Our community has lots of traditions. Often stretching back decades these pieces of our shared heritage carry special meaning. They’re proof of our storied history. They’re evidence our game has endured through generations of players. They’re the inheritance that our veteran heroes pass along to those who will carry them forward. And most of all, they’re a way to come together and celebrate who we are in the ways that make the Realms great. One of those amazing traditions is happening this weekend, it’s the 17th Annual Tournaments of Chaos, and it’s absolutely going to be an awesome event. 

There are tournaments, of course, lots of individual and group tests of combat prowess to challenge yourself, with the game’s greatest combatants stepping forward. But that’s only the tip of the chaotic iceberg. There are crafting and skill competitions, games and performance artistry, and some good old fashioned stories around the camp fire. 

And night quests! Do you like questing, well Tournaments of Chaos has you covered. Friday night there’s some sort of evil wizard on the loose and that’s pretty much always bad news. And Saturday night strange shimmering lights in the sky are portents of something, and I bet it’s something you’re going to want to hit with swords!

So saddle up your horse and get riding to scenic Silverport in the lands of Sharingil. And tell them I sent you. That should be worth a free drink I would think. 

(I know I’m supposed to tell you to stay Chaotic here but I’m more the Lawful Good type. So just read between the lines)

Aeston

Humanizing the Realms - Paul "Grindin Starbrook" Tilton

1. What do you do outside of the game? What would you like to be doing? (Work, school, projects, etc.)

I work for John Hancock, as a Business Analyst. Which sounds like corporate nonsense, and it is. Luckily I enjoy the people I work with, and I get to work on a huge variety of projects, so it stays interesting!

2. What hobbies do you enjoy other than LARP?

Honestly it feels like my favorite hobby is collecting hobbies. I like video games, audiobooks, learning basically anything, 3d printing, boardgames, TTRPGs, disc golf, watercolors, Battletech, Warhammer, a smattering of MTG, woodwork, I just picked up a camera for photography, gardening, our homestead... Oh jeez I don't think I've ever tried to list them before.

3. Favorite meal, dessert, and drink?

Man, what an impossible ask because cooking is one of my hobbies I didn't list above! I'm gonna have to go in sub categories Meals: I love Japanese cuisine, but everyone loves Sushi, so I'll say Japanese Curry. (If you haven't tried it, you absolutely should). But I also make sourdough, and a grilled cheese with tomato soup on my own bread is pretty simple but tough to beat. Drinks: I've been really into mint Sharbat lately (sort of like a shrub), a nice cold beer never hurts, and lets go bourbon for favorite liquor. Dessert: I'm much more of a savory boy, but there are these chocolate covered sea salt caramel frozen yogurt bars by Yasso that are perfect

4. If you could go on vacation anywhere, where would it be? Would you bring anyone?

Wife, duh. But I think I'm obligated to say that 😜. We've got a dream vacation to Japan coming up in October, so, that's definitely high up there. If the stars align (or one of us wins the lottery) I would absolutely love for Ashenmark to take a group trip to New Zealand.

5. Are you working on any life goals that you’re willing to share?

We're slowly building a homestead, and I look forward to the years where we produce a significant portion of our own food. We've got bees (dammit I forgot beekeeping in the hobbies list), a garden with a lot of tomatoes, potatoes, and beans, started keeping meat chickens, meat rabbits. Very fun stuff, and Brooke has been an incredible farm wife. 

6. Favorite outfit other than garb?

T-shirt, sweatshirt, shorts, and flipflops. I've been collecting merino wool tees when I can find them, that is a MAGICAL fiber, man.

7. Do you have any professional or personal skills you’d be willing to talk about?

I try not to monetize my hobbies, but I love creating custom miniatures on Titancraft (similar to Heroforge). So if you want a DnD or Realms mini, you let me know and I can do it for a probably pretty modest price.

 

8. What drew you to the realms, and what keeps you there?

Being a nerdy 14 year old drew me in. I've basically grown up in the game, and now a lot of the faces who have been around long enough are family to me. I love a lot of the aspects of the game, but 100% most important is the community.

9. Favorite movies/shows/books?

Oh God, thank you for asking. I have been trying to get everyone I know to read the First Law books by Joe Abercrombie. Please read them so we can talk about how they're the best gritty fantasy books ever written.

10. If you happened upon 3 wishes, what would they be? (Wishing for more wishes doesn’t seem to work...)

1. $500,000 a year, adjusted for inflation so I can focus on my plethora of hobbies, travel as much as I want, but not have so much money that it becomes a problem. 2. Our pets live exactly as long as we do in good health. 3. No more fucking cancer. Fuck cancer.

11. Who would you like to see interviewed next?

Dan Diamond

12. Anything else you’d like to add? 

Goddammit I also forgot to add Yoyoing to the hobbies list. Please read Joe Abercrombie's books. 

If you'd like to do one of these interviews, send Dani Lacasse (lilpotatogem on Discord) a message to let her know! 

Stories from Divine Intervention 3

Following a tradition set upon at previous Divine Intervention events, stories have been gathered. Tales told by those who bore witness to that which occurred. These, are Stories from Divine Intervention 3

—

There we were, scattered around the site doing small challenges for a big game of clue. I approach my good friend Harkel getting a brief on one of the challenges and am told we need a 'silly' weapon. Well, as fate would have it, I finished a trident just two days prior! So, after a run back to the tavern to grab my gear, I approach the challenge and engage in glorious Trident and Buckler vs Flail and Shield combat! 

Well, glorious may be stretching it. As it turns out, tridents aren't good at wrapping around shields, but they are really good at stopping flails. It was a long battle of attrition, where my self-cast Enchant Armor allowed me to take at least 5 blows to my shield arm, but in the end I emerged victorious!

~Ian "Timm" Perry

—

So, it was nighttime. In Hell. There Bogen and I were, tromping up the hill to go help out our friends, so far left alone by demons. Then, we run into 6 demons, all deciding that it was our time to die. So, we sprinted back down the hill, chanting "Fuck that shit! Fuck that shit!", Bogen waving glowing rainbow orbs. Hilarity among the assembled adventurers ensued.

~ Styx

—

I have a few.

Most visible to others was the timeline. Gideon asked me a question, something like "I hear there was a time before Calladen went into the Dagger of Sacrifice that he was helping us? Where in the time loop is that relative to where we are?"

I did not even know how to begin answering, so I starting drawing instead. 

I added elements, others came by and contributed. We dredged our memories for what happened at events that were over a decade ago by mortal reckoning. "Did that really happen before we defeated Bedlam?" "Wow, that was a busy year." I tried to keep it as focused on the task at hand as possible, but still had to include a time skip, a loop, and a supplementary timeline to track Laika's major events. Kovaks protested that there were too few dimensions, which is true, but it was barely comprehensible as it was.

I am not sure that the timeline really turned into anything pivotal, but it was memorable, and I had some good conversations about pieces of it, so I am glad I made it. 

For another: there was a staff that needed to not touch the ground in Hell, that Vesper had to bring with us as we traveled into Hell. I was asked to help, and we eventually settled on trying to shrink it. Under considerable time pressure, I threw together a ritual with four or so people. We performed it, but on the moment when I focused the magic on the staff, I felt a psychic attack attempt to compel me to instead take the staff and give it to the very being we seek to keep it from. I was a Protectionist when I first began adventuring, and while my spells are no longer focused in this way, it still comes naturally to me to block such magic. In this case, however, I was tested nearly to my limit. After my initial Protect the Soul failed to hold it off, I was forced to escalate and use all of my strength and tricks, from my Force of Will as a Knight of the Red Branch to my power as a Magus of the Realms, in a matter of seconds. Finally, drained, I realized I had fought it off, but could barely consider it a victory: the staff remained its original size, I had far less power available to fight in Hell, and I fear the being learned from me in our brief conflict.

A brief story: at one point in Hell, I had rested on a bench, within sight of the temple. A pair of demons accosted me. They observed that we, the visitors, had been lying all the time. One of them added that he had been eating the lies and they were delicious. As I knew that several of the demons were seeking to make deals in exchange for information on the pieces of soul we sought, I jumped on this. "Oh really? You eat lies? That could be traded for. I can lie to you all day!" The demon did look like he was considering it, but the other immediately stabbed me. I hear that the first exclaimed with upset that his chance at being fed more lies had been snatched from him, but the other just said "I hate lying." Perhaps they were like the classic puzzle guards, but instead of one telling the truth and the other lying, one loved truths and the other loved lies.

Finally, I want to repeat something I told the group after we left Hell: this may have been the most successful quest into Hell that I have ever been on. All too often, we flee Hell, barely alive and having given up too many valuable positions, made dangerous deals, and had to cut our losses. I remember questing into Hell to attempt to spread Duchess Ophelia's influence during the Bedlam War, and I believe we only made it out when Laurante made a new deal with the Queen of Worms. I remember the Druid challenge which resulted in a demoness serving and influencing the Queen of Faerie, and the temple to Aurora in Hell being desecrated. But this time, we not only succeeded, with the child's soul being restored, we left Hell a full hour before our deadline! It was an impressive victory.

~ Magus Rosetta

—

We spent much of Saturday in the town of Lost Hope, trying to right and rewrite the shadows and memories of wrongs done to the townsfolk. At many of these locations, Tears of Aurora mixed with those tears of the Mother of the Child of Light were collected. Once we had all of them, our next steps became clear. 

As was evident to everyone walking among these shades in the shattered ruins of the town, terrible things had occurred, and the gods had allowed them to come to pass. As adventurers, we were told that some of our group must pay penance, though none of us had been present when these atrocities had been committed. 

Last September, I started learning what it meant to be an adventurer, partially to increase any possibility of meeting the gods I have studied for a few years now. Alight with nerves after waiting in line, I placed my right hand on the mirror containing the Tears of Aurora, and my left on the vessel to Antioch’s power. I reached out, and there was something, someone reaching back. There had often been a faint presence in Coventry, but nothing so potent and real as this. The voice, formless, entered my senses without reaching my ears, greeting me and saying that it was good to finally speak with me as well. Antioch once again impressed the severity of the wrong done here, and I agreed. “Something has been lost. The Child never had the chance to grow into something great. What can be done about this?” Antioch bade me to create, possibly with magic, something wonderful for someone I did not know, voice swirling like a chorus, like a mind greater than any one man. I readily agreed. How could I not?

Later, in Hell, I used my ward spell to get myself and others through hoards of demons. I have always used this spell to call upon Antioch. That night it felt just a little more powerful, a little more imbued with purpose.

~Kelly "Charis" Perfetto

—

I have two stories to share. One involving my goddess, and one her husband, as it seems to go.

The first was when we discovered that Death Knights were guarding the Temple of Aurora. While the rest of the party was ready to make their way into battle, I did the stupid yet noble thing. I gave away our element of surprise, and seanced Garm. I sought out Pawldo to ensure I had a Knight of Garm bearing witness, and I flipped over the timer. Garm just responded “you again” in his gruff voice as soon as he answered. That’s how you know he cares. I explained that we were coming, for Aurora set us upon this quest. He said if we wanted to enter the Temple, we would have to prove we could. And that we did. 

Later that evening, I was brought back to life in the Temple of my goddess, having just felt her loving embrace in spite of my dead state moments before. Both my boyfriend and my Knight were gone, the altar where we had sacrificed Tir moments before laid bare, and it was time for us to follow. I kneeled before the altar, tears flowing freely, as I asked Aurora to take care of them. As I got up and left, people tried to comfort me, telling me that they would be okay. But for once, I was not afraid. I knew they were safe because I have faith, and as long as they were with Aurora nothing could ever go wrong.

~ Squire Margaret August

—

The Friggin’ God Bottles             

~ According to Makhta ~

So there were these bottles, with different gods’ names on them, that you couldn’t move off a table but you could put little power gem things in them.  Like voting, I guess. And Rexan was on a bottle there too, I don’t know why, I thought it was dead, but anyway.  There was one unmarked one that we figured was the Absolution god, which we were told not to vote for, no matter how tempting absolution sounds to be honest, so we put a “no” sign on it but that didn’t stop some people from voting who can perfectly well read but don’t believe good advice.

Anyway, a god who was not included was none other than Vesper, and I pointed this out to him and I said he should have a bottle too, and he said “go ahead if you want.”  So I put a fancy gold “Vesper” on a party cup and slammed it down on one end of the god bottle table, just to find out that Jasper had already done that with another party cup on the other end and it already had stones in it!

So later we found out that people were moving stones around, most notably from Vesper’s cup – because apparently it wasn’t a “real” god bottle or whatever.  So that wasn’t right.  And Shadow got a bottle added and had a bunch of votes, so why not Vesper?

So after we dealt with all the night’s questing and I still had magic to burn because – well, ha ha gods, the joke’s on you – and so far I’ve never asked for divine aid for anything actually serious and life-saving – Charis said they could help me get in touch with the leylines or however they connect to magic so we could right the wrong of this big affront to our personal friend the god.

Charis’ mage-y senses said that we couldn’t add a bottle, like Shadow got to.  We’d have to take over one already on the table.  Like what the hell Garm, how is that fair?  So we figured Rexan would be good ‘cause it’s not alive anyway, and I was ready to go but Charis thought we should make sure we wouldn’t be hurting Vesper with this, like giving him Rexan’s domain or something.  Sheesh, crazy cautious actually smart mages….

And while we’re dithering about this and figuring that out, Rexan’s bottle moved!  It went right over to friggin’ Dionin’s and glommed on and shared stones and everything.  Like, what the hell!  I mean, glad to see Rexan running in fear, but Dionin?  Son of an actual…   anyway….

So we got moving, got some nice drinks in some party cups to invoke Vesper’s party spirit, called on powers and toasted and linked arms and drank over Vesper’s previously shunned god cups, and lo and behold!  Rexan’s bottle un-glommed from Dionin’s and it suddenly said “Vesper” on it, all fancy and shining with godly goodness!

Now just to remind you, Vesper was okay with all this so whatever consequences he got after were hopefully good god consequences, but also his problem, and I dunno what ended up happening but I heard he got all the votes he needed to – I dunno, graduate or whatever, so he was out of the running when it came time for penances later.  Which was too damn bad for a lot of reasons.

I’m sure there are no negative or lasting repercussions from this moment of justice, and I’m glad I could use the arcane mastery that the gods forced on me to help out one of their own.  Party on, Vesper!

Shield Stories with Cameron Huneke

  Organized by James "Tao" Murphy

Please physically describe your shield; style, Heraldry colors etc? 

Green teardrop shield with large white lettering on the front: FRONT TOWARDS ENEMY

How long have you had your shield? 

A little over three years at this point, it made its debut (decorated, anyways, I had it unfinished at practices for a few months beforehand) at Divine Intervention II in May 2022.

Is this your preferred shield style? 

I personally think I would benefit from a slightly larger version of the shield I have, but I like the teardrop shape because it gives good coverage while still being maneuverable, and I like the punch style because I can put the shield in many more places than I would be able to with a strap shield.

Have you ever tried a different style of shield? 

I've used a strap shield from time to time, though usually just at fight practice and not at an event.

Who made it?

I did! At a SMAS shield/combo building workshop, with some help I believe from a member ot two of Invictus, though it's been long enough that I don't remember exactly who was there to help out at the time

Have you ever had to fix/repair/refoam it since it's original creation?

Not yet, though the foam on the bottom is probably due to be replaced in the near future.

What is your favorite move with the shield?

Hard to say, though I like a feint to (my sword arm side) with a quick twirl to the opposite side, ideally aiming at a now-exposed sword arm or shoulder.

Do you have any interesting stories about the shield?

This is the shield I won the Ace of Hearts tourney at QoH 1023! Other than that, another notable fight I can remember was a limited sword+board fight vs Torolf at Shandar's Coronation, which I managed to win but ended with my sword launched about 10 feet to the side because it got caught between Torolf's chest and his shield while he was trying to block the killing shot I made. The shield has also been with me for a few other big moments in my realms career, including my first magic item! I likely wouldn't have really picked up sword and shield as extensively as I did if not for a ritual consequence from either my first Black and White (1021), which involved swearing off weapons 5' and longer in order to fix Icicle.

Meme Monday

 by the Meme Team

What You Missed - Queen of Hearts XXX

By Commander Ryu Goldscale

As an avid reader of Conspiracy Monthy, I must mention how intrigued I was for what this event had in store for the participants. Sadly, the most “risqué” thing about this event was the new safety requirements for pikes enforced this year. This Queen of Hearts continued to be a spectacular competitive event rated E for everyone, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way! Despite this only being my second time attending, I would describe QoH XXX as the best QoH I have ever been to, and the most fun I have had in a while. I quite liked many of the changes that were made this year, including adding “non com” components to some of the combat tournaments, the ace tournaments, and the addition of Siege weapons in the Art of War tournament. All around, I was thoroughly impressed by the Event Organizers, Marshals, my fellow teammates, and the participants on the opposite team. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year! Now, onto the play by play.

The two teams this year were Team Cressida and Team Sindri. Both teams came armed with an impressive collection of true supporters and Aces. Team Cressida boasted the talents of Shader as General, Evie as Seneshal, and Me as Provost. In addition, we employed the skills of Jasper as our Warrior Ace, Styx as our Mage Ace, Kalashai as our Ace of all Trades, and Bogen as our RAT Ace (rogue assassin thief). Team Sindri, likewise, had an equally formidable lineup of true supporters. Highlord Temorse as General, Kwido as Seneshal, and Graham as Provost. It was obvious Queen Sindri came to win, as they brought Killian as Warrior Ace, Kaelkatar as Mage Ace, Grindin as Ace of all Trades, and someone so mysterious and secretive they were never uncovered as RAT Ace. With such a lineup, the title of Queen of Hearts was quite literally anyone’s to claim. 

As always, the event kicked off with all of the major war maneuvers; Kill the Queen, field battle, the incredibly lengthy and excessive Art of War bracket, and of course, Hadrian’s Wall. While Team Cressida fought incredibly well and showed incredible tenacity during the bridge battle, the experience and tactics of Team Sindri overcame us, and once again proved why Highlord Temorse is often asked to be a General each year. I however, will never forget the shock on Lord Aeston’s face, when we proved just how portable a Ballista can be and put it in the tower of our castle.

At various points during the war maneuvers, combatants were pulled aside for the individual and pair tournments such as, closed fighter, open fighter, mixed pair, Duncan's challenge, knight and squire, and newbie. For a full list of the individual tournaments and their winners, I will direct you to this View Article. I do want to say, that the level of skill and sportsmanship on display among all combatants was off the charts. For all the newer players that participated in this year’s Queen of Hearts, I am so incredibly impressed by you and I am so excited to see where you go from here. I know you are going to move on to do amazing things. You all embodied the phrase “do honor to yourself and the Realms” and I would fight beside you anytime. 

After the classic war manuvers, we moved into what I like to call “non com war maneuvers”. Technically, they don’t require combat, but they certainly required a level of athleticism and projectiles that I wouldn’t want to participate in as a true noncombatant as per the omnibus. Regardless, this encapsulates tournaments like Rock Assault, a magic missile bonanza that went on for far too much time and included far too many rocks. Despite the many missiles to the face, we all escaped mostly unscathed, and maturely let Aeston know ways he could improve the tournament. I’m kidding, we all immediately turned on him and helped him collect the scattered missiles by lobbing them in his general direction. 

There were many more tournaments, both combat and non combat, that ran Saturday. So many that I wasn’t able to keep track of them. I will once again direct you to the full list of Tournaments and Victors that was posted on the View recently. If you participated in these tournaments that I didn’t mention, you kicked ass, regardless of if you won. I am so happy that you came and gave 110%.

Saturday ended with the Weapon Showcases, a series of one on ones and squad battles that showcased individual combos. I had luckily found a Tambourine in my box of things, and took advantage of the situation to cheer louder than the other team and boost our spirits. While every participant in the showcase was incredible, I want to give a particular shout out to the sword and shield three man squad participants. That was a battle that will go down in the history books.

Night fell with the promise of the crafting presentations and a party. Both teams participated in the opening ceremony to light the bonfire, and despite how it looked, the rest of site was kept fire free. A few people were invited to share some words about Queen of Hearts and the order of the Magi surprised us by inducting Merrix into their ranks. I was further surprised by the Knights of the Lunar Aegis when they called me up to promote me from an Initiate to an Elite, the second step on my journey towards becoming a Knight of the Lunar Aegis. The evening ended with the presentation of all the crafting competitions. As always, we crafters went all out and put our best foot forward. All of the projects were stunning and true works of Art. I am sure the judges had a tough time determining the winners of each category. 

Sunday rolled around with the 5 man and 10 man battles. For an extra boost of morale, team Cressida dressed to impress in Hawaiian and Tropical shirts, a tradition I hope will continue in the future. At this point, the scoreboards was looking pretty tight, I truly believe this was the closest competition I’ve seen at Queen of Hearts. Even though we were all exhausted from the day before, Luke John apparently didn’t get that memo and completely swept the five man bear pit. Where did he get that energy from??? 

There were a few more tournaments on Sunday, but let’s be honest, you’re all just here to read about Queens War. For the sake of my audience (and because I can’t remember which tournaments were on which days) I’ll skip ahead. Queens War, as always, is the highlight of the event, at least for me. A series of limited 1v1s that always impress and dazzle. This year was no exception. Everyone brought their A game, even those that normally don’t fight. Some notable moments I remember include an amazing Javelin catch by Rosetta, some matrix level projectile dodging from Voutia, and a fierce attempt by Makhta to defeat a 6’6 with double daggers! As always, though, Queens War had to end and despite an incredible showing by Griffin, Team Sindri took the victory. 

After was the awards ceremony. This year, the awards were custom, laser etched wooden swords with the name of the tournament on them, and similar mason jars filled with nicknacks and candy. I completely agree with Shader that these awards were “not mid”. I would even go so far as to call them “peak”. Omri also presented some custom awards, hand drawn and completely free of bias. I was delighted by these awards personally. At the end, of course, a Queen of Hearts had to be crowned. The competition was close, but Team Sindri cinched the win! Many accolades to Queen Sindri! May you have a long and prosperous reign (until the next Queen is crowned).

This year really renewed my interest in Queen of Hearts. Previously, I felt I could take it or leave it, but this year made me feel as if I would be missing out by not attending. For my first time being a True Supporter, I had so much fun and really got to see in real time how much I’ve improved. I want to shout out the amazing photographers, YPNN, Orion, Margaret, Rowan, Toah, and Cyrus. There was truly not a moment of this event that wasn’t photographed and every picture is just stunning. Thank you all so much for your dedication to documenting everyone’s best moments. To the staff and marshals, THANK YOU! I cannot say thank you enough! To my friends and Teammates on Team Cressida, you all rock. You brought my dreams of what a Queen of Hearts team could be to life and I will forever be thankful to you all. To the opposing members of Team Sindri, congratulations on the win and thank you for bringing your all. Despite the gap in the team size and experience, you all were willing to roll with the punches and did everything you could to help keep the teams as balanced as possible. Thank you to those who switched teams halfway through, and especially thank you for not pulling any punches. I hope Queen of Hearts XXX will be remembered for a long time, I know I certainly will, and no matter what the future of Queen of Hearts holds, I will see you all on the battlefield!

All Hail Queen Sindri!

Cmd Ryu

PS: Their RAT was Kwido. It was very obvious. 

[Tambourine of Victory!]

Fresh Faces with Kanik "Corvus" Hollan

In this Fresh Faces article, meet Kanik Hollan (they/he), who plays Corvus (it/they).

Photo by Bri Meisser

1. How did you learn about and join The Realms?  

 I learned about it through SMAS at WPI.

 2. How many events have you been to?

Currently 6!

3. Have you ever LARP’ed before? If so, tell us about it?   

Not really! I did a bit of boffer fighting among friends but have never been in a LARP before. 

 4. What is your character like? Where are they from? What is their species? What is important to them?

Corvus is very curious and tries their best to be friendly, is fairly new at seeking adventure but is more than ready to step up to a task that may be asked of them. They're from somewhere in the woods, it's not entirely sure where, just that after walking in one direction long enough they met other adventures and followed along. They're pretty sure they're human, but do remember a time where they were a magpie. Friends and shiny things are important to them. Shiny things can be anything from a gold piece, a trinket gifted to them by others or gifted by finders keepers, but shiny things are also anything new or exciting that may catch their eye. They hope to stick out for and by their friends and to make new ones along the way!  

 

Photo by Kersten Prince

5. What do you remember most about your first event? 

 It's hard to say just one thing, other than the overwhelming sense of community that's here in The Realms. There is always someone with the answer you need or willing to help you find it, and even when the day is done and you're out of character, everyone is still kind and happy to help clean site and converse. I suppose I actually remember most helping pack up Black and White with Bogen as we talked about various things including the puzzle box that I had not yet solved.

 6. What things have helped to make you feel welcome in game?

As I said before, the sense of community is so welcoming. I initially was very overwhelmed by spells but knew I wanted to take them up and even though I was overwhelmed, the people I reached out to were more than happy to help me out, talking about their experiences or guiding me in the directions of those I needed signatures from. I will also say joining through SMAS is a *tremendous* help, I was able to meet so many people that I can call friends out of game that when I see them in game, even if our characters may not know each other, it's far less stressful to talk to a face you already know!

7. What parts of the game do you find most challenging?

I struggle with chronic pain so even though I would love to go out and be a full fighter, I can't so it can certainly be challenging for me to find my niche on a quest but I've been doing what I can. I also want to mention that it's sometimes hard to be a new face and have my voice heard, and I thank everyone who has given me the space to speak and be listened to!

Photo by Kelly Perfetto

8. Do you have any game-related goals (as either a player or character)?

I hope to become a recognizable face of someone who can help! I want people to think the name Corvus when they need a helping hand or a puzzle solved or a message relayed or anything else! I also hope to expand my crafting, out of character I sew and design costumes and I hope to bring those skills into the game!

9. What advice would you give other new players? 

I would say to say hi! A lot of us are friendly faces and more than happy to meet another. Also don't be scared if you don't immediately have it all planned out, or if something you thought would work out didn't, larping is improv, and if you can go with the flow you'll find your spot that you can call home!

10. What have you enjoyed most about the game so far? 

 

Honestly, I've really enjoyed the sidequests or the more personal aspects of the game where we might go off and do a ritual or a stealth mission, the bigger plots are great, but the personal ones feel more real and tangible! 

 

Photo by Kersten Prince