Knightly Virtues

Several of the Knights of Numenor. Photo © Ellie Apland Knighthood in Belegarth has a staggering variety of interpretations across its population. Each individual line of knights has its own requirements and values, and so the meaning continues to become increasingly diluted over time. This has lead to many bitter arguments about the "right" way to do things and if Knighthood even has any value beyond feeding a few egos. Despite that, there...

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Anatomy of a Passing Sword

Along the lines of what I did for arrows, here's a visual guide to all the details of a passing sword. A special thank you to Sir Torrence for providing the cutaway pictures. Click image to see full siz...

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Garb Enforcement at Practice

Every year, there's a debate over how to handle garb enforcement.  Subsequently, the community usually ends in the same place: everyone agreeing that garb should be worn at events, some people insisting garb should be worn at practices, while others argue that requiring garb at practice is a death-kiss to recruitment. I'm personally in the pro-garb at practice camp, with leeway given for newbies, because I've seen it done much more good than...

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Welcome to Belegarth

AKA The Trials of a New Fighter Photo © Ellie Apland Hello, there! I couldn't help but notice you seem interested in what we're doing over here. Do you have any questions I can answer for you? Oh? Well if you're sure, why don't you give it a try? It'll only take me a couple minutes to show you the rules. I promise you won't hurt me if you're playing by the book. If it makes you feel better, you can take it easy on me while I'm teaching you....

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Static Guard: A-Frame

This guide is for newer fighters. Some concepts below are simplified to allow more immediate comprehension and application. Photo © Tiffany Tyler-Tyson The A-Frame guard is often the first taught to new fighters who fight sword and board. It is relatively simple and provides a solid static defense when executed properly. As your footwork, speed, and understanding of combat become better, you'll be able to branch out into other methods with more...

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Fighting as Entertainment

Fighters just don't get people who would rather watch a battle than participate in it. That's not surprising, really - they all get the itch to grab a weapon when they're stuck on the sidelines. It doesn't compute why someone of perfectly fine health won't just pick up some gear and have fun, especially if they already know the rules. For that reason, I am often asked: how can you enjoy yourself just sitting there? Truth be told, I don't always....

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Typecasting male event-goers

An overview of some of the men you will meet if you go to a Belegarth event. What type(s) are you? The Creeper - “Your garb is really pretty. Can I touch it?” The man who hides behind the cowl of social awkwardness to excuse his inappropriate behavior. He's uncomfortably forward, overly friendly, and invites himself into your conversations and personal space. Don't be this guy - everyone hates this guy. The White Knight - “Sure, I’d be happy to...

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