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.