#Valiant Armoury

[kultofathena]

The Milan Sword has a hot-peen construction that melds the blade and hilt together at the pommel and gives this sword a very strong and lasting hilt construction. The crossguard and pommel are crafted from steel with an antiqued finish and the grip is carved from Poplar and tightly bound in leather to complete the sword.

[lathalea]

My King, I would like you to send me 🎅. Your highness my favourite colour is navy blue and I love all kind of stories be it legends, myths. I have especially taken liking to the one of brave group of men and women called Kingsglaive who protect their country. Your highness would probably like them too.

May his majesty have a wonderful day!

Dear @andywinter16,

Thank you for your kind letter. I am anticipating that my reply finally reaches you — the messenger with my gift to you encountered a snowstorm on the way to you and had to wait for two weeks until he could take his wagon through the mountain pass in the Blue Mountains. 

Without further ado, these are the gifts I chose for you:

🎁 You mentioned your interest in the brave warriors called “Kingsglaive”. Sadly, I am not familiar with them, but I would very much like to hear more about them. If you decide to visit the Lonely Mountain and tell me of their great deeds, I will be glad. In the meantime, I have chosen a fine glaive from my armoury made by the dwarven weaponsmiths to honour these warriors.

🎁 I am sending you a trunk filled with dwarven tomes straight from the Library of Erebor. They contain many stories — legends, war stories, tales of dragons, knights, bravery and treasure, and quite a few others. May they be a source of entertainment to you!

🎁 Since you seem like a person who values protection as much as valiant deeds, you will find among your gifts a richly ornamented ereborean shield that is said to have belonged to Dain I, my great-grandfather, who ruled in the Grey Mountains. May it serve you well!

I hope you will find these gifts useful — or amusing, at the very least.

Your humble servant,

👑 Thorin Oakenshield

[libidomechanica]

I fear much mortal Love

I fear much mortal Love. But walk with layers of the sand an armoury, where must his stubborn valour neglected, and still varying town, ’ so Cowper says—and I sigh. To thy Harím Dividuality no Entrance, this valiant fast, as though hate away, which has crawn, and snow upon his espousals, and lovely she was the louder roar’d by thy turn with Sin pierces and so opportune as ever to the sun shine, O thou fleeting … I well delight have goaded.

[schooldekho91]

Women Freedom Fighters of India: Brave Heroines Who Shaped the Nation's Independence

Introduction

The story of India's struggle for independence is replete with tales of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. While the contributions of many male leaders are well-recognized, the role of women in this historic movement is equally profound and impactful. Women from diverse backgrounds rose to the occasion, challenging the British colonial rule and playing pivotal roles in shaping India's destiny. This article delves into the lives and contributions of these extraordinary women freedom fighters of India, highlighting their bravery and commitment to the nation's independence.

Early Pioneers: Leading the Charge

Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi

Rani Lakshmibai, the Queen of Jhansi, is one of the most revered figures in Indian history. Her valiant efforts during the 1857 Rebellion against British rule have immortalized her as a symbol of resistance and female empowerment. Rani Lakshmibai's leadership and fierce combat skills were instrumental in challenging the British forces, making her an iconic figure in the annals of Indian independence.

Begum Hazrat Mahal

Another key figure from the 1857 Rebellion, Begum Hazrat Mahal, played a significant role in the uprising in Awadh. Her strategic acumen and leadership in mobilizing forces against the British East India Company were crucial in resisting colonial oppression. Begum Hazrat Mahal's unwavering commitment to her people's rights and freedom remains an inspiring tale of bravery.

Influential Leaders: Voices of Change

Sarojini Naidu

Sarojini Naidu, known as the "Nightingale of India," was a prominent poet and freedom fighter. Her eloquent speeches and writings inspired many to join the struggle for independence. As a leader in the Indian National Congress, Naidu played a significant role in the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement, advocating for non-violent resistance and civil rights.

Kamala Nehru

Kamala Nehru, the wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, was deeply involved in the freedom struggle. She worked tirelessly to mobilize women and participated in various protests and movements. Kamala Nehru's efforts in supporting her husband's endeavors and her own activism left a lasting impact on the independence movement.

Revolutionary Fighters: Bold and Fearless

Kalpana Dutt

Kalpana Dutt was a member of the Indian revolutionary group led by Surya Sen. Her involvement in the Chittagong Armoury Raid demonstrated her courage and dedication to the cause of freedom. Despite facing imprisonment and hardships, Dutt's commitment to the movement never wavered.

Pritilata Waddedar

Pritilata Waddedar, another member of the Chittagong revolutionary group, is remembered for her bravery and sacrifice. She led an attack on the European Club in Chittagong and chose to end her life with cyanide to avoid capture, becoming a martyr for the freedom movement.

Gandhian Influences: The Power of Non-Violence

Kasturba Gandhi

Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of Mahatma Gandhi, was a dedicated freedom fighter in her own right. She supported her husband's campaigns and took part in various protests and initiatives, advocating for non-violent resistance and social reform. Kasturba's role in mobilizing women and promoting self-reliance was instrumental in the success of the independence movement.

Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit

As the sister of Jawaharlal Nehru, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit was a prominent political figure and diplomat. She was actively involved in the freedom struggle and later became the first woman to hold a cabinet position in independent India. Pandit's contributions to the national and international political landscape underscored the importance of women's leadership in shaping the future of India.

Underground Activities: Covert Operations

Aruna Asaf Ali

Aruna Asaf Ali was a key figure in the Quit India Movement, known for her daring and courageous actions. She played a significant role in underground activities, organizing protests and distributing leaflets, even as she evaded arrest by the British authorities. Her leadership and bravery earned her the title "Grand Old Lady of the Independence Movement."

Usha Mehta

Usha Mehta is best known for her role in organizing the underground radio station during the Quit India Movement. This clandestine station broadcasted messages and news to keep the spirit of resistance alive among the Indian populace. Mehta's efforts in maintaining communication and morale were vital to the movement's success.

Regional Leaders: Local Legends

Kittur Rani Chennamma

Kittur Rani Chennamma, the queen of the princely state of Kittur in Karnataka, was one of the earliest Indian rulers to lead an armed rebellion against British rule. Her defiance and military tactics inspired many subsequent freedom fighters. Rani Chennamma's legacy as a fearless leader continues to inspire generations.

Velu Nachiyar

Velu Nachiyar, the queen of Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu, waged a successful war against the British long before the major national movements. Known for her strategic acumen and alliances, she protected her kingdom from colonial powers, leaving an indelible mark on India's history.

Education and Reform: Pioneers of Progress

Pandita Ramabai

Pandita Ramabai was a social reformer and women's rights activist who played a significant role in advocating for women's education and emancipation. Her efforts in establishing educational institutions and promoting gender equality laid the groundwork for future generations of women leaders.

Anandi Gopal Joshi

Anandi Gopal Joshi was one of the first Indian women to obtain a medical degree. Her achievements in the field of education and medicine broke barriers and inspired many women to pursue their dreams despite societal constraints. Joshi's legacy as a trailblazer in women's education remains influential.

Women in Quit India Movement: Leading the Charge

Matangini Hazra

Matangini Hazra was an active participant in the Quit India Movement, remembered for her fearless participation in protests. Even at the age of 73, she led processions and was martyred while holding the Indian flag, symbolizing the undying spirit of the struggle.

Sucheta Kripalani

Sucheta Kripalani was a prominent leader in the Quit India Movement and later became the first woman to serve as a Chief Minister of an Indian state. Her contributions to the freedom struggle and her political career post-independence highlight her dedication to the nation.

Post-Independence Contributions: Continuing the Legacy

Indira Gandhi

Indira Gandhi, the first and only female Prime Minister of India, played a crucial role in shaping the nation's post-independence political landscape. Her leadership and policies, although controversial at times, significantly impacted India's development.

Lakshmi Sahgal

Lakshmi Sahgal was a key member of the Indian National Army (INA) led by Subhas Chandra Bose. She later became a prominent political figure and worked towards social justice and women's rights, continuing her legacy of service to the nation.

Modern Reflections: Legacy and Progress

Legacy of Women Freedom Fighters

The legacy of these courageous women continues to inspire generations. Their stories of bravery, sacrifice, and determination remind us of the critical role women played in India's freedom struggle and their enduring impact on the nation's history.

Current Status of Women in India

While much progress has been made, the fight for gender equality continues. The contributions of women freedom fighters serve as a reminder of the importance of striving for a society where women have equal opportunities and rights.

Cultural Depictions: Honoring the Heroes

Women Freedom Fighters in Literature

The stories of women freedom fighters have been immortalized in literature, with numerous books and biographies capturing their lives and contributions. These works provide a rich source of inspiration and historical knowledge.

Women Freedom Fighters in Films

Bollywood and regional cinema have produced several films depicting the lives of women freedom fighters. These movies not only entertain but also educate the masses about the sacrifices and heroism of these remarkable women.

Memorials and Honors: Preserving the Legacy

Statues and Monuments

Across India, numerous statues and monuments have been erected to honor the memory of women freedom fighters. These memorials serve as a testament to their bravery and ensure that their legacy is never forgotten.

Commemorative Days

India celebrates various commemorative days to honor its freedom fighters. Special events and programs are organized to remember and pay tribute to the contributions of these heroic women.

Conclusion

The women freedom fighters of India played an indispensable role in the country's struggle for independence. Their stories of courage, sacrifice, and determination continue to inspire us. As we celebrate their legacy, it is crucial to remember that the fight for equality and justice is ongoing. By honoring their contributions and striving to uphold their ideals, we can continue to build a better and more equitable society.

[bookofjin]

Annals of Yongping 2 (509/510)

A border victory, etc.

[Yongping 2, 5 February 509 – 25 January 510]

2nd Year, Spring, 1st Month [5 February – 6 March], Xiao Yan dispatched Wang Shennian to rob Nanyan. Decreed the General who Assists the State, Zhangsun Zhi, as provisional General who Pacifies the South, to be Commander-in-Chief, and lead Army Director Bing Qiu, and others with the Five Armies to chastise him.

On dinghai [13 February], the various states of Humi, Bujiumo, Niumi, Banshi, Xiwanjin, Xindouna, and Yuebaniu all dispatched envoys to court to present.

On renchen [18 February], the states of Yada and Bozhi dispatched envoys who came to court, and tributed one white elephant.

On yiwei [21 February], the state of Gaochang dispatched envoys to court with tribute.

On bingshen [22 February], the King of Zhongshan, Ying, advanced to pressure Xiao Yan's Changbo Defence Post.

On wuxu [24 February!!], they dispersed at night, he killed and wounded several thousand.

On dingyou [23 February!!], he took Wuyang Pass. He seized Yan's General of Clouds Cavalry, the State-Founding Marquis of Songzi county, Ma Guang, General of the Best of the Army, the State-Founding Count of Qianling, Peng Wengsheng, General of Valiant Cavalry, the State-Founding Earl of Dangyang county, Xu Yuanji, and others, 26 generals, and took prisoner more than 7 000 people. He advanced to attack Huangxian and Xi Passes. Yan's general Ma Xianpin abandoned Xi Pass, and Li Yuanlü abandoned Huangxian to escape and flee.

This Month [5 February – 6 March], a sramana from Jing province, Liu Huiwang, assembled a multitude in rebellion. Decreed the Inspector of Hua province, Xi Kangsheng, to chastise him.

2nd Month, yimao [13 March], a decree said:

Recently, army service has frequently arisen, much of the weaponry have been destroyed and broken, and in the armouries the weapons and arms have become very few. In peacetime do not forget danger is the warning from the ancients. The tools of the five troops, is a matter that must be filled and stored up. Arrangements for the making are already many, no multitude are not being raised[?]. Now can measure up making sundry arms for forty thousand people.

3rd Month, guiwei [10 April], the various states of Moshiluo, Ayaoshe, Sutudu, and Difuluo all dispatched envoys to court to present.

Summer, 4th Month, jiyou [6 May], decreed that due to the starvation at the Wuchuan Garrison, to open the granaries to relieve and aid.

On jiazi [21 May], a decree said:

The sage succour his generation. Afterwards matters decline and prosper, some things are corrected and some adapted, systems have no consistent existence. The previous court, as the cloud carriage had just moved, made a lofty foundation to begin the framework. The common people of the He and Luo, moving during past turbulence, and continually coming to new dwellings, were still not able to approach. South-west of Yique, crowding Man filled their gatherings. At Mianyang, the thieves city, connected towns constructed defence posts. The foolish and stupid Ba in their hearts were not yet pure and earnest. For those reasons they temporarily held down beginning the kindness of fostering, and for the moment put off sternness in the laws against perfidy.

Now the Imperial City has Heavenly strength, it is not similar to before. Yang, Ying, Jing, and Yi, all are fully in our possession. Protecting the defiles [from?] the various Man, [we] entangle [those who] do not return to adherence. In the feelings of Shang and Luo's people, sincerity doubles from former days[?].

Though at Fan, Xiang and southward, humaneness deviate from guiding the government[?], restraints isolating them from reform, is not the people's fault. However followers of the undependable are quick to rob and plunder, butchering and harming the virtuous and good, parting people from their fathers and older brothers. Yan's brutality truly is also deep.

Readily can release they who have robbed the people and show them great kindness. To relinquish these vicious thieves is not the command's mistake.[?] Also direct they who hem the borders to the provinces and garrisons, from now and afterwards, not listen to the robbers and bandits from outside the frontier, violating being a crime similar to within the frontier. If the provinces and garrisons' masters and generals understand and tolerate, and do not investigate, convict them according to the statutes.

5th Month [3 June – 2 July], the state of Gaoli dispatched envoys to court to present.

On xinchou [27 June], the Emperor, due to the droughts, decreased meals and cleared away the bell frames, and forbid and stopped butchering and slaughter.

On jiachen [30 June], favoured Hualin Chief Pavilion, and personally recorded the prisoners and convicts. Crimes punished by death and below were reduced one grade.

6th Month [3 July – 1 August], the state of Gaochang dispatched envoys to court to present.

On xinhai [7 July], a decree said:

The river and seas regions are similar, their chariots and books ought to be as one. The various provinces' tracks and paths from south to north are not equal. Now can extend directives to the four regions, to make distant and close not be of two kinds.

Autumn, 7th Month, guiwei [8 August], the state of Qidan dispatched envoys to court to present.

8th Month, dingwei [1 September], the state of Dengzhi dispatched envoys to court to present.

On wushen [2 September], used the Heir of the state of Dengzhi, Xianglanti, as the King of his state.

The various states of Gaochang, Wuji, and Kumoxi all dispatched envoys to court to present.

9th Month, xinsi [5 October], ennobled the former King of Beihai's son Hao as King of Beihai.

On renwu [6 October], decreed to settle the names of the various gates and doors.

Winter, 10th Month, guichou [6 November], used the Minister of Works, the King of Guangyang, Jia, as Minister over the Masses.

On gengwu [23 November], Ying province presented a Seven Treasures Dais. Decreed not to accept it.

11th Month, jiashen [7 December], decreed the ban on butchering and slaughtering childbearing [animals] to become a permanent rule.

On jichou [12 December], the Emperor at Shiqian Hall had the various Buddhist monks and court officials discuss the Classic of Vimalakirti's Instructions.

12th Month [27 December – 25 January], a decree said:

The Five Grades of nobility recently has had no selection formula. Should be for those springing from the same family name: Dukes, primary sixth lower; Marquises, secondary sixth upper; Earls, secondary sixth lower; Counts, primary seventh upper; Barons, primary seventh lower. For those springing from different clans: Dukes, secondary seventh upper; Marquises, primary eighth upper; Earls, primary eighth upper; Counts, primary eighth lower; Barons, secondary eighth upper. For those springing from the Pure and Refined: Dukes, secondary eighth lower; Marquises, primary ninth upper; Earls, primary ninth lower; Counts, secondary ninth upper; Barons, secondary ninth lower. Can rely on this to rank them.

The various states of Diefuluo, Fuputi, Zhaotuozha, and Boluo all dispatched envoys to court to present.

[vina-writes]

This is shamelessly inspired by this post and @xx-thedarklord-xx’s editions lol

(i)

Ron considers himself an honest man. He’s just trying to sneak into the armoury. It’s straightforward theft, simple and respectable, if not particularly elegant. It also shouldn’t be all that challenging, considering he’s been a castle scullion for two months; he knows the gatehouse inside and out. He’s clocked the guard changes. He’s even tested the doors— the southern entrance has the weakest lock.

That’s why Ron also considers himself a smart man— nay, a prepared man. He’s thought ahead, and feels ever so valiant and debonair as he sneaks down the stone corridors. Which is why he’s surprised to turn the corner and find two guards leaning against opposite sides of the door he’s itching to get his mitts on.

“Er.” Ron glances between the two of them.

“Good evening,” one says. He doesn’t look all that strong for a guard, and for a second Ron wonders if running might be worth the hassle of potentially getting beaten to a pulp.

“Right.” The second brushes his hands off on his trousers and pushes off the wall. “I’ll be having that, then,” he nods at Ron’s lock-pick. “And it’d be helpful if you could hold out your wrists for me.”

“Er,” Ron says again. Perhaps Hermione had been right to laugh at his self-proclaimed titles. ‘Prepared’ doesn’t fit into this scenario all that well.

“Wait just a minute.” The first guard straightens. “This is perfect timing. I’d say we let him go if he solves our little dilemma.”

“There’s no dilemma, Draco—”

Draco, however, doesn’t seem to agree. “Are you good with riddles, Thief?” He says.

“Here we go,” his companion mutters. Draco ignores him and eyes Ron expectantly.

“Er—” then, because Ron is smart and suave and prepared, he settles on “—yes?”

“Excellent. Now— one of us tells the truth. The other only tells lies.” 

Ron stares at him. “That’s the riddle.”

“Yes.” Draco lifts his hand to inspect his fingernails. “Go on then. Which of us looks like a filthy little liar to you? Is it my innocent, slighted, scorned self, or is it that slimy bastard who’s skulking in the corner?”

“Fucking hell, Draco, I said I was sorry—”

“Not sorry enough, Harry, considering you made me wait three sodding hours in the rain only for me to find out you were keeping the kitchen girls company.” Ron’s getting the feeling he’s bitten off significantly more than he can chew. 

“It was an accident! I forgot!”

“Good thing to know I’m that forgettable.”

“You’re not— argh!” Harry turns and kicks the wall in apparent frustration. Oh, Ron definitely doesn’t want to be a part of whatever this is. He starts inching his way back down the hall, cursing himself for thinking he could ever be sneaky. Fred and George were right. 

“Hold it!” Draco barks at him. “You’re not going anywhere until you settle this.”

“What do you want him to say?” Harry throws his arms up. “That you’re right and I’m perpetually wrong? That I’m the bane of your existence and I should cower in the face of your fury?”

“That would be a nice start, yes.”

“I’ve already bloody done that!” 

“Well, since you’re a rotten liar, I’m not particularly inclined to believe you.”

Ron has to hand it to Draco— he’s maintaining a terrifying aura of icy nonchalance that would put Hermione to shame.

“What do you want from me?” Harry wails. “Roses? Jewels? For me to tattoo ‘I’m sorry’ on my arse and proclaim that I love you in the town square?”

Well, shit. Point to Harry. Ron imagines Draco’s thinking so too, from the way his pale cheeks have turned an unattractive shade of red. Harry doesn’t look much better. He seems to have realized what he’s admitted. Ron’s banking on it being a secret. 

It’s all rather awkward from there.

“You— you do?” Draco asks.

“Er.” Harry says. “Um. Yes. Yeah, I do.” 

“Oh.” Draco fidgets. “Me too.”

“Just kiss him,” Ron groans.

Harry does. It’s passionate, and emotional, and— kind of gross, from where Ron’s standing. He gives them a few moments before fleeing down the corridor at top speed.

There’s nothing quite like that to set a man on the straight and narrow.

[usks-world]

The Valiant Armoury Malatesta Sword Signature Collection

The Blade is Hand Forged 1060 High Carbon Spring Steel.

All sword fittings are fabricated right here in Texas.

The Malatesta Sword now comes hot peened assembled standard

This Sword has an Overall Length: 43 1/2 inches

Sword Blade Length: 34 inches

Sword Handle Length: 6 1/4 inches

Sword Blade Material: Hand Forged 1060 High Carbon Spring Steel

Sword Blade Width at Guard: 1 7/8 inches

Sword Weight 2 lb. 10 oz.

 

Standard Leather Colors:

Scabbard - Antiqued Red

Grip - Antiqued Red

Belt/Harness - Black

The Scabbard and suspension package is made with the finest top grain leather and is some of the finest found on any semi custom medieval sword

[love-killed-the-superstar]

im still behind schedule but give it up for day 4!!!

CASSUNZEL WEEK DAY 4 - I’D GIVE ANYTHING

“So you’re leaving today?”

Rapunzel sits on the edge of Cassandra’s bed as early morning sunshine streams through the windows, flooding the room in a warm light that seeps like honey. It’s a little emptier now; Owl is waiting in the stables with Fidella, her travelling bags are packed up and set aside neatly by the door, half of Cass’s tiny personal armoury is gone. Most of the damage from the black rocks has been mended, and the new mismatched flooring is hidden beneath a deep red rug. Even the bed is bare, the sheets folded up neatly at the foot; it’s a blank canvas, save for the torn lady-in-waiting headdress folded neatly on her bare pillow.

“Yeah, this afternoon. My dad is taking me to some old fishing cabin. We’re going to spend a few days there, talk through stuff, spend some time together… and then after that, I’m on my own.”

Cass emerges from behind the divider set up in the corner of the room. She looks like a new woman. These last few weeks have been spent taking care of her health, working her back up to a healthy weight. Once the moonstone was gone, it became evident just how malnourished her body was after almost a year of neglecting any physical needs, running on magic alone. Now, however, the colour is back in her cheeks, and she looks… happy. So, so happy.

The outfit she’s wearing is one Rapunzel helped her pick out last week, once she broke the news that she was planning to go on a journey to clear her head and try to reevaluate her destiny. Rapunzel isn’t about to pretend it doesn’t hurt, seeing her in that green tunic and dark, dramatic cape; for as stunning as she is right now, Rapunzel knows in a matter of hours she’ll be gone.

“Do you have all your maps? Your cartography gear?”

“Sure do. The essentials are all packed. I promise you, I won’t get lost in the woods.”

“You’d better not, after I gifted you that new compass,” Rapunzel jokes, but her laughter catches a little in her throat, burns in her chest. Cass smiles, tugging a mismatched pair of gloves on. The one covering her weaker hand is lined with… some kind of metal? It looks closer to a gauntlet of sorts, than the simple leather glove on her other hand.

Cass catches her staring and explains, “It’s sturdier this way. It’ll give my wrist some extra support.” She wanders over to the mirror and stops, taking in her reflection with a sharp inhale.

“Damn,” she whispers to herself. “I’m ready to take on the world.”

“You are. You’re going to be so great out there.” Rapunzel wants to be happy for Cass, she really does. And there certainly is a part of her cheering that Cassandra is going to move forward with her life, seize the day, live her life to the fullest.

But they need to set the record straight before she can move on to feeling that way.

“Hey, um… I want to talk about something, before you leave.”

“Talk about what?” she asks distantly, still admiring her reflection, face flushed with pride.

“…Cass, are we in a relationship?”

Cass pauses. Slowly she turns to face Rapunzel, leaning back against it, uncaring of how her fabric smudges the glass. Her face is pinched.

“Wh… where is this coming from?” She folds her arms uneasily, pursing her lips before continuing, “Our friends know how things are between us. I mean, Eugene is fine with it, and I never expected him to be so on board.”

“He is, and I’m grateful for that, but… I just think that we should talk about this properly. There are some big changes coming our way, you know?”

“Look,” Cassandra sighs, reaching up to drag a hand through her hair, “I know that we may have – I don’t know, gone into things a little too fast given what happened, but… I thought we were on the same page.”

“We are , believe me! But it’s just one page of a huge book! There’s… a lot of things we need to figure out. We’ve been through a lot and then there’s still so much more to come.”

She reaches for the headdress, folding and unfolding it in her lap as she talks. It’s easier to talk to a simple piece of cloth than the woman in front of her; the woman she loves, so badly it hurts. The woman whose eyes don’t tell how she’s feeling.

Cassandra takes a step closer, and mutters, “I thought we’d already gotten through the hard parts.”

“The hardest part is yet to come, Cass. You’re leaving.” Rapunzel hugs herself. “You’re going somewhere I know that I can’t follow you, and you’ve only just come back into my life… I’ll really miss you. I miss you already.”

“I’ll miss you too, Raps. You know I will.” Cass watches her with a guarded expression. “But you know I have to do this.”

“I do. Of course I do, I – I just wonder where I’ll fit into your life, once you leave.”

“What do you mean?” Cass’s face scrunches in confusion. “Rapunzel, I’ll still think of you. I’ll still write. I’ll come back to visit in due time, I’m sure, so… I don’t understand what the problem is here.”

“Cass, you're going to go so far,” Rapunzel says, trying to tactfully voice these fears, in a way that doesn’t create more harm than good. “You'll see so many new places, meet so many interesting people! You'll meet girls. So I just... I've been thinking about how much you matter to me – how much I matter to you – and... well, are we? In a relationship?”

She can't bring herself to look at Cass when no reply comes. But she hears a sigh, and Cassandra moves to sit on the bed beside her. She reaches over and cups the back of Rapunzel's head, gently tilting it to face her. There's no frustration or anguish in her expression like Rapunzel had feared: only an exasperated fondness.

“You're jealous of all the pretty girls I'm going to leave swooning in my wake once I'm on the open road?” she asks, a teasing lilt to her voice.

“Yeah! Shouldn't I be? You're beautiful!” She shakes her head away as Cass's lips pull into a grin, and scowls. “Besides, you aren't like me when it comes to love. If you met someone who you really liked, you would – you would want to be with her instead.”

“Raps,” Cassandra interrupts, and Rapunzel can hear the eye-roll as she talks, “while I appreciate your valiant effort to love and let me go, I'm a little hurt that you think some pretty girl I might meet out on the road would undo all of my feelings for you.”

“Cass – no, I'm not saying that. At least, I don't think I am?” Rapunzel huffs in frustration. “I just want to know where we stand before you leave, so if you do meet someone and you want to be with her... I can find a way to let you go.”

“Again, Raps, I'm grateful for the sacrifice you're making,” Cass continues mildly, “but did you ever stop to think that maybe, no matter how many beautiful strangers might cross my path, it won't matter a whit because I have you and you’re more than enough for someone like me?”

Rapunzel's lips quiver, trying to formulate a response, while Cass waits patiently for her next move.

“...So we are in a relationship now?”

“I mean... I thought we already were.” Now it's Cassandra's turn to look away shyly. “But then you asked, and I didn't want to seem too sure if you weren't sure.”

“I am sure,” Rapunzel says quickly, reaching for her hands. “More sure than anything that I want to be with you, Cass. But I know that it’s a lot, asking you to share me with Eugene, so…”

“He can give you things I can’t, I know that. And that goes both ways,” Cass points out, squeezing her hands. “Besides, he’s just about the only person I trust to look out for you while I’m off chasing fate, so… If you’re okay with it, so am I.”

Rapunzel laughs, but it feels wet, almost choking her. She moves a hand up, cupping Cassandra’s cheek and leaning forward to meet for a kiss in the middle. They haven’t really… kissed before. There’s maybe been one or two quick pecks, fuelled by joy at having her back. Perhaps the occasional forehead or hand kiss, in the heat of the moment. But this is something different, and wow, it sets all her senses alight.

Cass shivers a little as they kiss, seemingly also overwhelmed by the notion of finally getting to kiss her girl. Her hands move hesitantly down to hold Rapunzel’s waist. It goes on for a little while, until they inevitably have to pull away to catch their breath; and when Rapunzel opens her eyes, she realises she can barely see through her tears.

“Woah, Raps.” Cass scrambles for a handkerchief to wipe Rapunzel’s tears.

“I’m sorry,” Rapunzel sniffles, “I just – I’m so happy you’re here.”

“Aw, Raps, don’t,” Cass says pleadingly, with a lopsided grin as she continues to clean Rapunzel’s face. “I’m happy too, but I still have to go.”

“That’s not what I mean,” Rapunzel says, and darn, her voice trembles as she says it. She shuts her eyes tight. “I keep thinking about how I almost lost you, and I’m just… so glad you’re here and you’re alive and you're not g-giving up on yourself-”

More tears spill over, but Cassandra’s hand is still.

Rapunzel isn’t dense. She knows that Cass still thinks about it all too: the devastation in her words and her tears as she fell into Rapunzel’s arms that fateful day, so weak from the loss of the moonstone and the realisation that she’d lost the war with herself. She’d been so small in that moment, so powerless, so close to giving up completely.

Rapunzel knows that Cass still grapples with that notion sometimes, even on a day like today when her spirits are soaring: that perhaps she should have stayed dead, after all was said and done, because of the destruction and despair that lay in her wake. It’s a feeling that they haven’t talked about properly, because how do they come back from that? Where does a conversation like that go? This is the only way she can express an ounce of the pain she feels, that Cass was ever small and alone and gone … and perhaps it is selfish of her, to drag this up the very day Cassandra will leave and she will stay. But if she doesn’t tell her here and now just how grateful she is for everything, she’s afraid the right moment will never come back.

“I’d give anything for you,” Rapunzel reiterates tearfully, reaching up to hold the hand cradling her cheek. “I’d go to any lengths, happily, if it means you’ll live each day like your last.”

“Rapunzel…” Cass’s voice wavers with grief. “It’s because of you that I’m here today at all. I… I never thanked you properly, for never giving up on me. But I’d give anything for you too. You know that, don’t you?”

“I do,” Rapunzel whispers. She leans forward and Cass pulls her in, cradling her in her arms as she weeps for a while. She needed to get it out of her system, she knows now; there will be plenty of other times she’ll cry over Cassandra’s absence, but to cry in celebration of her life, relief that she’s still here to greet each day, is something she has to do right here and now, just to share that emotion with the woman she loves.

Cass rocks her without another word, and when Rapunzel is finally all cried out, she’s there to clean her face. Her eyes are a little damp too, but doesn’t seem to pay mind to it. Rapunzel glances down at the headdress in her lap and reaches for it, unfurling it and holding it to her chest for a moment.

“Is that…?”

“When I found it – you had torn through it with a black rock, and I couldn’t bear to leave it. I’m glad you didn’t throw it out.”

“Well, it was folded up so nicely when I returned to my room that night,” Cass points out. “Clearly whoever did that cares for it more than I ever have, so I figured maybe it could stay. It could be your memento for when I’m gone.”

“Cass, I already see you everywhere in this castle, I don’t need a physical reminder of where we started.” Rapunzel holds it up to Cassandra’s left arm and begins to wind it round. “You, on the other hand, need a piece of me with you, wherever you go.”

Cassandra shivers again, and Rapunzel risks a glance up at her as she secures it with a knot. Her face is a little flushed. “A lady’s favour, huh?”

“Is it, now? Well, I guess that’s just as well,” Rapunzel says, grinning up at her. “Gotta send a message out to all those girls who will be falling at your feet.”

“You really do overestimate my charisma,” Cass retorts, shaking her head. She holds out her arm, admiring the new addition to her outfit. “You know, I never thought I’d say this about my goddamn headdress, but… I don’t hate it.”

Rapunzel beams and rises to her feet, leaning down slightly to press a soft kiss to Cassandra’s brow. Cass leans into the touch, exhaling.

“I’m going to go find Eugene. Give you a chance to check over your stuff one last time.” She pulls away and heads towards the door, before turning back. Cass is still sitting there, eyes glassy, watching Rapunzel’s every step. “Come find me before you leave, all right? So we can have a proper goodbye.”

“I – yeah, I will, Raps,” Cass promises. Her hand grazes the lady’s favour, as if still processing what it all means. Her face is still rosy, and Rapunzel can’t help but giggle at the spectacle of it. “You can count on it.”

[darksaiyangoku]

Lancaster Week Day 2: Queen of the Vampires

Jaune Arc was terrified. He, son of the House of Arc, valiant knight of Vale, was reduced to a mere plaything. He looked both ways to his left and right, discovering that his hands had been chained to the sides of a lavish bed. The sheets were soft and comforting, red like roses. Jaune struggled to free himself, shaking violently from side to side. It was no use. Dazed, he thought back to the moment that led him here and the promise he made to his friend.

7 hours earlier...

Jaune Arc polished his father’s old Crusader armour until it shone like the sun. Feeling giddy, he decided to put on the armour and he smiled proudly. A week ago, he was finally knighted by the King of Vale and he swore that he would bring honour to his name and kingdom. Jaune looked in the mirror and pondered for a moment. He stroked his golden blonde hair as he tried to remember what he was looking for.

“Oh that’s right, my father’s sword!” He shouted. Frantically, he rushed out of his bedroom and headed downstairs to the family armoury. It was filled to the brim with all kinds of weapons; axes, maces, knives, daggers staves and canes. But the greatest of all weapons stood at the center; his father’s sword and shield. The shield was a beautiful pure white with the golden Arc Creat engraved on it. Hidden behind it was Crocea Mors, the legendary blade that ended the life of the Great Demon Caesar. Jaune walked forwards to claim his birthright, slowly drawing Crocea Mors from the shield. The blade was a beautiful silver, with a golden cross guard and pommel and thick hilt wrapped in blue cloth. Closing his eyes, he recited his oath on the day he was knighted;

“I, Jaune of the House of Arc, pledge my loyalty to kingdom. I vow to bring honour and glory to Vale, to protect its people from the darkness and to show no mercy to my enemies.”

With his vow complete, he sheathed his sword and hung the shield on his back. Suddenly, he heard loud knocking coming from castle’s door. Quickly, he left the armoury and approached the entrance hall, opening the door to find his friend, Neptune Vasilias, standing in front of him. Neptune was a noble man, with bright blue hair, a fashionably red tunic and cream shirt, with black trousers and brown boots. However, something was wrong. His normally tan skin was pale as a ghost. Jaune Arc stared in disbelief.

“Neptune, what’s wrong?” He asked frantically.

“I-I fear that the Queen of the Vampires is going to attack.”

Jaune Arc gulped hard. The Queen of the Vampires was one of the most feared creature in all of Vale. Her power knew no bounds. When night fell, she would summon her minions of darkness and they would lay waste to Vale. Even the king feared her.

“H-How do you know this?”

Neptune pointed to the sky, and Jaune saw several black creatures, flying over the village.

“They won’t attack now,” Neptune warned. “But they’ll keep flying over until nightfall. Then they’ll attack.”

Jaune’s fist clenched tightly. “What can we do? We can’t take on an entire hoarde of vampires but ourselves.”

“You’re right. But if you can kill the Queen, the attacks will stop.”

Jaune’s eyes widened in shock. “WHAT?!”

“I know it’s a long shot and a completely stupid idea, but it’s the only one that might work. Without a Queen, these vampires will be helpless.”

“How do you know this?”

Neptune sighed. “I don’t. But it’s the only chance we’ve got. I even have something that will aid you.” He reached into his satchel and took out a small bottle with the symbol of Holy Cross. “This will give you an edge over her. It’s blessed by the church.”

Jaune felt conflicted. He didn’t know for certain that killing the Queen would stop the attacks, hell he didn’t even believe it was possible to even kill her. But if there was a chance to save the lives of the innocent, he had to take it.

“Alright,” he sighed. “I’ll do it.”

Neptune bowed. “Thank you, my friend. My life is in your debt.”

Putting the Holy Water in a small bag that hung from his waist, Jaune set out on his quest. There was no turning back now, it was time to slay the Queen of the Vampires. Hours had passed and the trek to the castle nearly killed him, but by some miracle, he found himself outside the castle of the Vampire Queen. He looked up to that her minions were flying in the direction of the kingdom. Jaune drew his sword and shield and kicked down the door. Entering the castle, he saw nothing but black walls and a red carpet hanging from the center staircase.

“Queen of the Vampires!” He shouted. “Show yourself! You have committed crimes against the Kingdom of Vale, and for that, you shall pay with your life!” Suddenly, an ominous laughter could be heard throughout the castle.

“Oh, will I?” A silky, soft and sultry voice echoed throughout. “I’m sorry, brave knight. But this is where you say goodbye to your precious kingdom.” Jaune began to feel faint, his vision was blurry and his legs were beginning to weaken. He started coughing and spluttering until he collapsed to the ground. The last thing he saw were the hideous faces of the vampires. Then, everything went black.

Present

Jaune wasn’t going to be beaten like this. He had to escape and slay the monstress. Unfortunately, he found that he was stripped of his armour and weapons, leaving himself exposed.

“Great.” He muttered. “So this is how I’m gonna die; chained up, naked, to vampire’s bed.”

As if on que, the Queen made her entrance. Jaune’s face twisted in anger as he faced his enemy. However, that changed when she got close to him. Standing in front of him was a beautiful woman. She wore a dark red dress that was cut in the middle, exposing her ample chest. There was slits above the thighs, which exposed her smooth, long legs. Her hands had black fingernails as they gently carrassed his cheek. Her most prominent features, however, were her bright red hair, gleaming silver eyes and small fangs. She smiled at him.

“Y-Y-You’re the Queen of the Vampires?” He stuttered in disbelief.

“Yes I am.” She simply said, still caressing the knight’s cheek.

“You’re so beautiful.”

She laughed quietly. “You’re not so bad yourself, for a human.”

Jaune couldn’t believe what was happening. He was finally in the presence of the Vampire Queen. He knew he had a duty to fulfil, but he was so enamoured by her beauty, he didn’t think he could do it.

“So what’s your name, my dear?” She asked in a sultry voice.

Jaune couldn’t help but blush and he gulped hard. “Jaune Arc, of the House of Arc. Knight of Vale.”

Suddenly, the Queen began to straddle him and his blush became even redder. “I am Ruby Rose,” she introduced herself. “You know me as the Queen of the Vampires.”

Trying to maintain his composure, Jaune hissed. “So are you going to kill me then?”

Ruby giggled mischievously. “Kill you? No. I want you to be my husband.”

“Wait, what?!” Jaune’s mouth gaped wide open. “What do you mean you want me to be your husband?”

“I mean exactly that. You’re a brave and honourable knight. You have courage that other men can only dream of possessing. Not even the king could approach me. But you? You didn’t hesitate.”

Jaune couldn’t help but feel flattered. He had no idea that the Vampire Queen could think so highly of him. But he had to be strong. He couldn’t give into temptation.

“Listen,” He began. “You’re ravishing, but I have to fulfil my duty as a knight. I.... I have to kill you.” For some reason, saying that brought a lump in his throat.

Ruby scowled. She thought her beauty and kind words would be enough to sway him, but it seemed he was stronger than she thought. “If you must, then I won’t stop you,” She whispered. “But before you do, let me give a taste.”

Before Jaune could protest, Ruby cupped his cheeks and kissed him. Jaune immediately melted. It was intoxicating. She tasted like sweet roses and chocolates. He couldn’t tell if she was placing him under a spell, but he didn’t want this to stop. He wanted her. He needed her. Right now. Finally, the kiss was broken and Jaune stared right into her eyes.

“I-I-I,” He stuttered.

“If you want to have me, I’m afraid you’ll have to say goodbye as a human.”

“What?!”

Ruby grabbed her forearm and bit into it, causing blood to spill out.

“Drink from me,” she said. “With my blood, you’ll be stronger than you’ve ever been.”

“B-But I-”

“Don’t worry, my darling knight. This is not a curse, but a gift. And with this gift, you shall be by my side forever. You will have me and I will have you. Together, we can rule over the night.”

Jaune pondered for a moment, he was about to undergo a new life. Today he was a knight, tomorrow he would be a vampire. He would be powerful, ruthless and feared by many. But the prospect of being with Ruby made it seem worth it.

“Give it to me.” He demanded. “Make me yours.”

The Vampire Queen smiled wickedly. “As you wish.” She put her arm to Jaune’s lips and he swallowed her blood. The taste was revolting and he wanted to gag, but he kept going. Ruby suddenly let go, staring at Jaune’s blood covered mouth. His blue eyes turned a ghastly yellow, the transformation was complete. Proud at the result, Ruby unchained her new mate.

“Well then, how to do you feel?” She asked. Suddenly, she found herself pinned down under him. Jaune stared into her eyes once more, grinning with lust. He grabbed her dress and tore it off her body, leaving her naked. Her skin was smooth as marble. She smiled at him and he smiled back.

“I am yours, my queen.” He rasped.

“Take me, my king.” Jaune captures her lips with a burning kiss as their hands caressed over each others’ bodies. Their tongues explored one another as they lost each other to their love. Jaune Arc was reborn. He was now the King of the Vampires.

[jimmythedonut]

Dragged up a photo of my Valiant Armoury XIIa Longsword. Here y'all go

[rolonoise]

FRAG: Episode 2 Feature List

I’ve made good progress on FRAG (90s FPS tabletop game) this weekend, with all the core factions complete and all but two of the expansion factions locked down.

I recently posted a feature list to my Patreon backers and I’m going to post it here too if anyone is curious at what I’ve been up to (it’s a long list).

FRAG: The New Technology current features:

1. Core Vehicle rules

2. Expanded Army Lists - All armies have a Vehicle Armoury containing between 4-12 weapons.

2.1 Expanded List (Legion of the Lost)

New Equipment: - Hand Weapon - Great Weapon - Heavy Pistol - Nailgun - Super Nailgun - Maser - AT Rocket Launcher - Disposable AT Launcher - Unmaker - Repair Kit - Slug Ammo - AT Rockets - Boombox - Nitro Booster - Spikey Bits

New Elites: - Argent Knights - Apparitions

New Individuals: - Marine Biker Hero

Vehicles: - Marine Bikers - Dragula Roadster - Mekatron - Scythe Armoured Car - Valiant APC - Sunder Main Battle Tank - Sunlust Gunship - Vendetta Dropship

2.2 Expanded List (Hell):

New Equipment: - Sacrificial Victims - Parasitic Flesh - Haunted Chassis

New Troopers: - Gargoyles

New Elites: - Demon Soldiers - Phantasms - Pale Riders

New Individuals: - Greater Phantasm - Vorack

Vehicles: - Possessed Human Vehicles (armoured cars, APCs, MBTs, gunships, transports)

2.3 Expanded List (New Order):

New Equipment: - Sword - Great Weapon - AT Rifle - Drunk Missile Launcher - Heat Seeker - Flame Wall Launcher - Anti-Ballistic Shield - Jetpack - Improved Front Armour - Improved Cannon - Veteran Crew

New Troopers: - Zombies - Shades

New Elites: - Migliorato Soldati - Caballero Oscuro - Jet Troopers - Fixed Weapon Team

Vehicles: - Motorcycle Squadron - Maschien Hund - Truck - Halftrack - Super Halftrack - Armoured Car - Medium Tank - Heavy Tank - Superheavy Tank - Panzer Suit - Panzer Mech - Light Spider Mech - Heavy Spider Mech

2.4 Expanded List (EDF):

New Equipment: - Heavy Pistol - AT Mines - Disposable AT Launcher - AT Launcher - Anti-Ballistic Shield - Sentry Gun - Katana - Kukri - Sidhe Claymore - Mummy Staff - Vodka - Anti-Missile Laser System - National Traits (USA, UK, Germany, Japan, Egypt)

New Troopers: - USMC Grunt - German Roboter-Soldat - Russian Stalkers

New Elites: - USMC Hazard Marine - US Black Ops - British Gurkhas - British Highlanders - Russian Muscovites - Egyptian Mummies

New Individuals: - Earth Council Agent - USMC Officer - USMC Engineer - USMC Medic - British Gurkha Officer / Medic / Engineer - British Highlander Hero - Japanese Shrine Maiden - Russian Master Stalker

Vehicles: - Previously mentioned human vehicles (Trucks, Mekatron, Scythe Armoured Car, Valiant APC, Sunder Main Battle Tank, Sunlust Gunship, Vendetta Dropship) - Mammoth Tank

2.5 Expanded List (SHAMAN):

New equipment: - Anti-Ballistic Shield - AT Launcher - Repair Kit - Support Drone

New Elites: - Hybrid Howitzer Team with Distortion Howitzer - Mutant Shock Troopers - Hybrid Icarids

New Individuals: - Hybrid Scorpion - Tech-Drone

Vehicles: - Hybrid Juggernaut - MFV-1000 Mounted Flying Vehicle Squad - LSV-50 Logistical Support Vehicle - TD-209 Termination Drone - GRV-2000 Ground Reconnaissance Vehicle - HAV-4000 Heavy Assault Vehicle - HKD-47 Hunter Killer Drone - FTV-3000 Flying Transport Vehicle

3. New Factions: - The Church of the Old Blood (cultists) - The Martian Authority (high-tech humans) - The Ebihara Group (Japanese Megacorp) - The Sidhe (fantasy adventurers, list under review)

3.1 New Factions (still under construction): - The Menae (bio-horrors)

4. Personalities

4.1 Legion of the Lost: - The Hellwalker - Kumiho - The Drifter - Mike Sierra X-Ray - Logan - The Captain - Doctor Freemont - Trent - Billy - Cortez & his companions - Gina Carter - Robert 'Ace' Stone - The Intruder (can be chosen for any human army) - Caine (can also be chosen for the Hell army)

4.2 EDF: - Ou Ryu - The King - Oleg Sharanevitch - Dave Williams - Doctor Petersen - John Grimm - Stan Strong - Agent Barrett - Lt. Max Colt - Donnie

4.3 Sidhe: - The Knight of Cinder - Avatar of Kuhulin - Quake

4.4 Church of the Old Blood: - Jacob D'armes - The Dark Herald

4.5 Hell: - Aglaeca (can be chosen for the Legion of the Lost if the Drifter is present) - Sarge - Maledict - Shalrath - Mary - Golgotha & Gethsemane

4.6 New Order: - Ilsa von Jaeger & Greta - Adolf Hitler - Verdura Cena

4.7 SHAMAN: - Roland Seven - Eduard Dio - Professor Crow

Further personalities planned for all of the above factions. The Personalities for the Martian, Ebihara, Menae factions are still under review.

[kultofathena]

Vision - The Strasbourg Longsword with Scabbard – Brown Collaboratively Crafted by Angus Trim and Valiant Armoury

The Valiant Armoury X Angus Trim Vision Line is a collaborative effort between famed swordmakers Angus Trim and Valiant Armoury. Models will be released in limited batches. After a production run, the model will not be available again for another 12 to 24 months. There are no pre-orders for these items.

Vision creates premium, entirely made in the USA swords that meld Trim’s magnificently optimized performance blades with the hilt design, robust construction and superior leatherwork that is the hallmark of Sonny and Zach Suttles at Valiant Armoury. The final product preserves the ideal blade harmonics and balance needed for each sword to perform to its fullest potential and is a heirloom-tier sword.

The blade of the Strasbourg Longsword is well suited to sweeping cuts and powerful, piercing thrusts alike and is crafted from 5160 high carbon steel with a spring-tempered hardness of 51-53 HRc. The fish-tail pommel provides a surprisingly convenient handhold and effectively acts as a extension to the grip that can be gripped for extra leverage.  A hot-peen construction that melds the blade and hilt together at the pommel gives it a very strong and lasting hilt construction. The crossguard and pommel are crafted from steel with an antiqued finish and the grip is carved from Poplar and tightly bound in black leather to complete the sword.

The matching scabbard for the Strasbourg is a wood-core scabbard that is wrapped in top-grain leather and paired with a sword belt of thick leather. The chape and other metal fittings are of metal and the buckles are reinforced with steel tongues for durability.

[beccaelizabeth315]

sometimes LARP swords are just really pretty

but I keep telling myself I have enough plastic swords already

even if they are really pretty

Ilike this one because I was looking for something to be a Luck Blade with three diamonds. I reckon this one has places for stones if you paint it shiny.

[eventindustrynews]

What is a hybrid event, and how do you organize it?

For the unversed, hybrid events are hosted as an amalgamation of in-person (physical) and online (virtual) events. Picture this, an ongoing live event is also broadcasted for a similar audience who just can’t be present at the venue and are attending virtually.

Because of its very nature, hybrid events may bring with them the complexity of simultaneously hosting an in-person and virtual event. As an event organizer you may need to deliver that extra valiant effort to engage sponsors and handle both technical and technological issues such as connectivity and coordination during the event.

Barring the above, which are mere technical and logistic demands, a greater prospect awaits you once you have learnt the art of hosting a hybrid event. Just think of it like having an additional auxiliary, and you have an additional platform for you to proficiently mesmerize your conscious audience by utilizing the best of both the worlds (in-person and virtual).

The pandemic did pave the way for many things to go online undoubtedly. During the conception of hybrid events, the skepticism of who would adopt it was the only certainty. But ever since hybrid gradually penetrated the world of events, there has been a healthy increase in adoption of hybrid events because of the many benefits they offer viz. greater flexibility, wider reach and higher savings. Listed below are a few ideas that may help you in organizing a hybrid event.

Reassess and define — Reassess your previous event accomplishments and act on the improvements in terms of generating more engagement, leads and social media circulations for your forthcoming event. Define your current event goals and objectives and brainstorm on the following –

A practical and tangible exercise that includes your budget expansion, technical armoury, time frame to register attendees (for both in-person and virtual) and technical know-how.

List down your attendees and speakers, and follow up with them by sharing your idea of the event, considering it is hybrid. Make a list of attendees who are most likely to attend in-person, and another list who would prefer virtual. Aged attendees or those ailing slightly are most likely to join virtually while others may want to attend in-person.

Ensure you have the right KPIs for the specific event — KPIs enable you to make smart and relevant decisions and also help you quantify and measure the effectiveness of the project you are handling to determine how close you are in terms of achieving your objectives. This is even more significant when handling a demanding event in the form of hybrid.

Touch base on your important stake holders by driving them with engaging content; campaign simultaneously so that you don’t lose base on one. Plan campaigns specific to physical and virtual and that will work wonderfully if executed well. Running through your attendee list and registrations to your speaker and vice versa will create a good impression on both of them.

The value you intend to deliver with hybrid also depends on the kind of platform you choose. For the physical event, you choose a secure, yet appealing and accessible venue. Also, because it is virtual, you need to choose the most convenient virtual platform which can be easily accessed and seamlessly integrated to a phone or a laptop.

How creatively effective can your social media impressions be as compared to your preceding events is also an important aspect to work on.

Source – Medium

[overfedvenison]

Alright, we've played three dnd sessions in my campaign now so I should actually write stuff down now....

Alright! Pathfinder Session 2.

The years since the War of the Horsemen have not been kind to the lands. At the old location of the enchanted woods, in the elven lands, where Plague fell, a terrible curse has been spreading and towns along the border have been disappearing one-by-one. We began as a group of recruits thrown together in a hurry to aid a town militia, sent to these cursed lands for our own reasons.

I was playing Charn. I am a student and a fighter - Fairly low-ranked - of the Storm Petrel Military Academy... It was founded by the fighter Cinna after she defeated the goblin lord in the War of the Horsemen, and was made to prevent another apocaypse. It is said the War was started, and our plane almost ended, due to the meddling of the gods. And so, in addition to combat training, military strategy, and knowledge of planes and demon-fighting, they teach a humanist philosophy that is largely anti-thiest.

My close ally is Pavia, a gunslinger of the region of Galt. A quiet sort that speaks French, she joined the Black Ravens at an early age. The Ravens are a close ally of the Storm Petrels, but more focused in their mission - They are dedicated primarily to firearms, and strength through superior technology. Essentially, they are a free army that assists the Petrels whenever possible and focus more on combat ability than the diverse subjects of the Petels.

The other notable characters this session were an Aasimar Cleric, and a Lizardfolk Bloodrager named Arka who had been send out by his tribe leaders to investigate the plagued lands...

----

The area was misty, and the air heavy and toxic, as we approached the town. We required special breathing apparatuses consisting of a Bottle of Air and a tube to survive. Our goal was simply to assist the civilians in their escape of the land; in particular an Alchemist who could help us fight in this war through his research. The town was suitably barricaded, and armed commoners stood at the ready - The civilian militia.

The town was a small hamlet, centered around a church with a great tower one of the militia were using as a sniper's perch. Pavia joined him, as they watched the area. Before we could leave, it was called out that the Plagued were approaching - Common enemies in these lands that consisted of shambling corpses animated by some form of fungus.

The town militia shot as best they could, and took down their numbers. They swarmed, and choked up the gate inside. Arka, I, and a few others formed a wall to hold off the tide while the commoners blasted in. We stood there and endured many waves of these creatures, each of us getting battered and struck (Except the cleric and I, who found ourselves in... Better positions than others. I credited a proper education.)

Our defense here taught us a few things... First, the Plagued are indeed undead - The cleric blasted them with a Channel Energy which damaged them. However, they also grow resistant to any damage they take so it only worked once. We each have our own abilities... I tossed Acid Flasks at them while throwing a bit of shade at the cleric, one of our allies used Stomp, etc. By the end, we were simply linearly attacking as they were crawling over the bodies of their fallen comrades to get past.

Meanwhile, Pavia saw a group of the Plagued behaving differently and approaching from a flank. She shot one, and decided to abandon her sniper perch and so descended the ladder to try and cut the flank off from the town... But quickly found herself surrounded, tripped, and soon to be implanted with a seed by the unexpectedly strong enemies. In a moment of desperation, she scattered a cloud of Black Powder for her gun and ignited it with an Alchemist Fire - Killing all her enemies, and leaving her damaged on the ground.

Finally, we spotted one especially strange Plagued - One we eventually termed a Granfalloon. Latched on the back of a Plagued was a large, tentacled plant-beast puppeteering the creatures. We eventually learned that this as an intelligent "Leader" of sorts, and the rest are simply his minions in a hive mentality. We managed to subdue this one, and after the battle lock it in a chest, alive, for further study.

It was a valiant attempt, but one of the flanking group got past us and then exploded into a swarm of spores. This drove our horses mad, and brought swift death to a huge chunk of the town. The Alchemist escaped down the path, albeit without his lab...

We sat in the town church as we caught our breath after this battle. We took guns from the armoury, locked our specimen in a metal chest, and Pavia found a group of civilians still hiding underground (and was almost shot dead - A small misunderstanding.) It was not a great success, but about as good as we could hope for fighting an unknown enemy this early.

I recorded the Plagued, their Tactics, and the Granfalloon in my Spellbook - My notes may eventually form a bestiary for dealing with the Plagued Lands.

----

We caught our breath as best we could, and departed to a nearby town. On our way out, we saw a spirit of some kind raising the dead... We eventually discovered this was an Avatar of Hel, a goddess of plague possibly corrupting the forest. I recorded it in my spellbook.

Along the way, we spotted the Alchemist... The alchemist is an older, portly man not particularly fit and definitely not a warrior, but noble and helps however he is able.

Nonetheless, one of our members went up and slapped him for fleeing. I began to argue that, given the circumstances, that was the best decision he could have made and that a misplaced honor would simply get a lot of people killed. The lizardfolk, Arka, was having none of it though - He declared her a deserter and a coward, and in the tradition of his tribe, drew a weapon to execute him.

I tried to reason with Arka as well, but the lizardman was headstrong and stalwardt.

"Alright..." I said "In that case, in the tradition of the king's lands, I here-by act as his lawyer in a trial by combat" I drew my sword and stuck him, which caused the bloodrager to collapse immediately. "Ah... Perhaps I went a bit too strong" I mused.

The Alchemist altered his memory and kept him from dying, and we later played it off as if it were a side effect of the forest. I introduced myself to the alchemist, and commended him on escaping - Unlike the more traditional warriors of the group, I don't believe much in honor. We gave him the notes and the Granfalloon, and he said he could research these back in town.

However, the Militia leaders called us out quite succinctly on a lack of teamwork, and so split off from us. From here on to town, we were basically on our own.

----

We arrived in town, fatiguing ourself to flee with the civilians from the toxic lands. We had worn ourselves down, and in the small castle-town spent some time to rest and relax. Everyone did their own thing... I helped the Alchemist as best I could, Pavia learned a bit of the local tongue and hung out with a small group from Galt, the Cleric mostly stayed at the inn, and Arka mostly hung out in the Moat doing Lizard Things.

One day, we all got together for a beach day. We bought some alcohol from the tavern, and played a game of Darts, among other things. Pavia suggested that the loser of the game kiss the Lizardman, who was mystified at the concept. We thought it was funny, and all tried... It ended up being the Aasimar. Arka recorded this in her journal, to investigate more about this "Kiss"

We discussed some theology as well... The Aasimars themselves are the product of divine beings interfering in mortal affairs, and Pavia and I choose to try and avoid that in lue to humanity taking destiny into it's own hands. In this respect, we've been resisting her healing. We questioned her, and noted that she is throwing away her own fate to serve the whims of some greater diety... She responded by saying that she chose to serve, and that it is her own will to do so and not a destiny thrust upon her. We were doubtful, but it was overall a good character building moment - And one important if we want to start accepting her cure spells, meta-narratively.

---

A few days into our rest, and shortly before we were called to the Capitol of Angelpoint for further study and quests, we enjoyed a day off... Only to be invaded by elves.

These Elves are the former residents of the now-corrupted forest, and wore the symbol of Hel on their armor. They were clearly still intelligent, but corrupt and evil beings now... Formerly, they were sort of capricious and violent nature spirits, but overall good and trustworthy and were a helpful asset in the War.

They snuck in by pretending to be a caravan of travellers, painting their ironwood armor with a metal coating. As we learned, this armor was cursed in and of itself and part of their symptoms.... They unleashed a caravan of the Plagued to assault the town, shooting down the gate guards with pistols (likely scavenged - Only two had them.)

The elves were strong, slicing down the guards with a single hit. I, unarmored, trusted them to last a turn and so holed up in a very defensible position where I could shoot at them while prone. I got a solid shot in, but was then immediately cornered and cut down when the guards immediately died.

Fighting off the elves was rough for all of us, but Pavia and some guards were able to shoot down from a higher stairwell to strike down the intruders, leaving only a few to deal with in melee.

The Plagued were taken down by Arka, who was hanging out in the moat and so allowed us a "scissor attack" formation where he approached from behind. He, being a Lizardfolk Bloodrager, is very powerful when unarmored... Unlike the rest of us, who were severely outmatched.

Thanks to Arka's strength, we managed to press through and save the town. We autopsied these elves, and I recorded them in my Bestiary. By now, I think we have a firm idea of the events of the forest....

Basically, the Goddess Hel is utilizing the remnants of the Plague Horseman to corrupt the forest and expand, bringing danger to us all. Her avatars are raising undead for these nefarious, and expansionist, purposes, she's making new and terrible species, and the Elven Druids are similarly warped and recruited into an army. For what reason, we don't know... Regardless, it's another case of a God interfering in our plane for their own purposes. Which is something the Storm Petrels will want to know.

I've learned enough, and we were called back to Angelpoint... The leader of the Silver Brotherhood, High Commander Adrian, wanted to speak to us. Apparently the animals of the city have been acting violently, and disappeared into the town aqueduct. The path inside was ripped open by great vines - A sure sign of Druidcraft. It seems here, too, the fingers of Hel have been manipulating. We asked about possible spread of disease, explained what we think is happening, and getting the go-ahead, went inside to slay the animals within...

[norseminuteman]

Hail and well met, I come asking a question. In the coming year I plan to buy numerous swords because, well, f--k you that's why. Anyway while I wait for my 2 A&A swords to be ready I was looking at either a Lutel or a Valiant Armoury piece for my impulsive needs. Both are around the same size (VA SE War Sword vs 15010) and same price. Does Swordblr have any advice to break my deadlock?

Well both are from respected makers. I personally prefer the Valiant Armoury sword for style, but either will serve you well.