Shadows

Bah. Nobody is abusing anyone, or creating a bad first impression. If people don't understand the playful banter that occurs here, they're always going to be confused by this whole site. So... can I count on anyone else posting these promotional images to their Brickshelf/Maj/Flickr accounts?

They're $200 in the LEGO stores as well. With stamps, it's a good deal. I'm waiting for the ISD to hit $150 and I'll take a spare for parts.

Definitely done this general topic before, but my method changes a little over time, so here we go again. Nothing too original. 250 minifigs, standing on baseplates, sorted and arranged by theme and type, all built to their original LEGO design. 14 sewing cases with 22 compartments each for minifig parts, sorted by theme and type. Pirates, Castle weapons, Castle armour/flags, city tools, Classic Space, etc. A bag of spare torsos I don't really need (more cops, etc). Heads are stacked so they don't move around as much and placed on a single 8x16 plate on alternating studs so you can see them all from some angle. 2 of those yellow LEGO cardboard cases (that I got free), filled with larger accessories and grouped items. Cannons, chests, barrels, Egyptian Adventurer's parts, castle walls, tree and foliage parts. 752,000 tiny little bags from Bricklink sellers, each containing something unique and unusual, kept out of the general parts population and placed in various LEGO buckets and bins. The rest, sorted by type and colour and seperated, mostly in bags and buckets. The majority of my collection is in sets, in their boxes. Some, previously assembled, but no room for them right now. I used to use those pod containers, but they're a hassle in the long run. Now I keep them around as open dishes for moving handfuls of bricks or sub-sorting for parts that need to go back to the sorted side of things. I get that filling cups at a Pick-a-Brick wall. Last time, they had a drawer of minifig accessories, hats/hair/helmets and weapons. I really enjoyed digging through that. Maybe a little too much.

L-17 Outskirts of Castle Kwiras Coming out of a small forest into a clearing ALUVAR! COME UP! QUICK! Wha... what is it lad? Aluvar looks out the top of the carriage and sees a small band of skellies no more than 300 yards ahead. Well. It was bound to happen, but I didn't expect it here. Do we engage them, or try to make a run for it? If we run, they'll only report back to their commander, giving us more trouble down the road. Prepare for battle. Excellent! Don't get cocky. Grandoth hops down from his seat and tosses his cloak aside, revealing his full armour, which he completes by retrieving a helmet from under the seat. Drawing his sword, he calls out a taunt to the skellies, which seems to get their attention. They begin moving toward the carriage. If that's all you've got on your bones, no wonder the dogs are starving! Was that really the best taunt you could come up with? Like you could do better. He could. I could. Do it then! Fine, give me a second. Oh, this is going to be good, I just know it. Glannath huredon, mastrichka flargnabble! The skellies, understanding exactly what Pinky had said, become furious and rush toward the group. At 100 yards out, they begin to fire arrows which bounce harmlessly off Grandoth's shield. Well, I don't know what that means, but they did. It's hard to translate, but it has to do with their parentage, slime, and a dog. Oh. I'll have to remember that one. Just then, a second band of skellies comes out from the forest behind the carriage. ALUVAR! More of them! Behind us! Yes, I see. I'm going to need some help here. Fortunately, help is here. You may come out now, it is time. The cloaked figure steps out of the carriage, startling Grandoth. Who is that? No one was supposed to come with us! Actually, my boy, it was my idea, and quite a good one, don't you think? That depends a lot on who it is. With a flourish, the figure tosses their cloak aside, revealing the fully armoured form of Princess Alyssta. She shouldn't be here! This is madness! We're doomed! Oh, shut up. Don't worry about me, just take care of that band approaching from the front, I've got the back ones. Of course, Princess. The two charge off into battle, making quick work of the skellies. As Grandoth returns to the carriage, he sees Princess Alyssta, reclining in his seat. What took you so long? Grandoth and Alyssta exchange a bit of playful banter, forgetting just who they are and their relative positions for a moment. Grandoth removes his helmet and places it back under the seat of the carriage. We, really showed them, huh! Grandoth slaps Alyssta on the back, nearly knocking her over. I'm sorry, Princess, I should show proper respect. I need to remember my place. Putting every ounce of force behind it, Alyssta throws a punch that knocks Grandoth off his feet. As long as we're travelling together, as long as we're fighting side by side, I expect you to think of me as another knight, not a Princess, not some weak woman. For this trip, I am just another soldier in the squad, your equal, no better or worse. Do you understand me? Rubbing his chin, Grandoth glances up. Don't worry, I won't forget, and I certainly won't make the mistake of thinking that you're weak. Admiring the way her armour fit, Grandoth couldn't quite forget that she is definitely a woman. And my friends call me Alyss. Oh, I, thank you... Alyss. Now get up, we've got to make up for lost time. Yes sir! I mean, ma'am, I mean, Princess, er, um, aaaaaaaahhhh. Everyone shares a much needed laugh as they reboard the carriage and approach the front gate of Castle Kwiris. Castle Kwiras - Front Gate A lone soldier has been given the unfortunate assignment of standing guard while others watch from the ramparts. I'm sorry, sir, but we can't allow anyone to pass, there are invaders in the area. I know, we just killed them. Well, whatever it is you do to skellies. Yes sir, and that's all well and good, sir, but my orders are clear. Aluvar steps out of the carriage, straightens his cloak, brushes his beard, and hands the guard a letter, without so much as a word. Yes sir! I am very sorry sir! OPEN THE GATE! Aluvar winks at Grandoth, reboards, and waits while they make the short trip into the castle courtyard. As the carriage stops again, Aluvar exits. Come lad, we shall appraise Sir Kwiras of the situation, and after a nights rest, continue our journey fresh. What about Alyss? Shhh. She will stay with the carriage, we can't afford to risk her discovery. The birds will keep watch, if there is anything suspicious, they'll alert us. She shouldn't be here at all! Quiet! This letter states that for so long as it is necessary, I am to be considered the voice of the King. His words come from my lips. You will never question my decisions! I never thought you'd pull rank on me. Aluvar chuckles. Listen, it isn't like that, it's just that this is a serious situation and I need you not to doubt me. I don't, I just worry for her safety. As do I. I was like a second father to her. The matters of the crown kept Tiberius busy and she grew up always wanting his attention, but never receiving it. She was a strong girl, a smart girl, but she needed guidance and direction. One day, I found her going through the books in my chambers. She explained that she was bored with her studies and wanted something new to learn. I spent many hours teaching her of the world, telling stories of my life. I love her like my own daughter. I won't let anything happen to her. So why is she here? Because she wasn't safe in Crown castle. There have been a few odd 'accidents' and 'illnesses' in recent times, occurances that I believe were to set the stage for this invasion. A traitor in the castle? Oh yes, most certainly. After a short meeting with Sir Kwiras followed by a quick meal, Aluvar and Grandoth are taken to their chambers where they retire for the evening.

K-18/19 Crown Castle Aluvar's Chambers So, it would seem that there is intrigue afoot. Intrigue? It's a full scale war! And we're right in it's path! And you're getting us involved! AGAIN! Don't you remember what happened last time??? Ah yes, good times, good times indeed. WHAT? You nearly got us all killed! Oh, you're exaggerating. YOU NEARLY GOT US KILLED THREE TIMES!!! Yes, well, it wasn't all that close. I've still got the scar. Pish-posh, that's from that barmaid's parrot in Narkeep. Haha, I remember her, she really let you have it. Yeah... Not like that! She bit you. Yeah... Oh, stop that. All of you stop it, this is a serious conversation. Just then, Grandoth enters the room. Sorry to interrupt, but I knocked and no one heard me. I heard you. You could have said something. I did. Not about him knocking. Well, no. We're doing it again. Doing what again? It. Yes, we are. Are we? QUIET! Hello lad, are you all packed for the trip? Oh yes, I've laid in some supplies and prepared the horses. The carriage has been checked out and I'll have some extra weapons aboard. We're as ready as we can be, considering where we're going. Do you know where we're going? No, but I figure it can't be good. That's a lad, thinking logically. I like that. Why don't you head down and get some breakfast, I'll be along in a minute. Oh, that sounds great, I'm starving! Grandoth leaves quickly. There is a knock at the door. A cloaked figure enters and sits on the edge of the bed. Are you all ready then? The figure nods. Good. You should be able to stow aboard the carriage amongst the supplies. Don't make a sound, you can't be discovered until we're a good distance away. The figure nods again. Go on, before anyone sees you. The figure leaves. I can't believe you're doing this. I don't have any choice. After a short breakfast, Aluvar, Grandoth and the birds board the carriage on their way to far off lands, with more supplies than Grandoth expects.

I do wish you wouldn't go around trying to show everyone your staff. Again.

Banners! Small Banners (Good for Sigs) Large Banners Transparent

Captain Redbeard: Working Night and Day to Keep You Informed!™ (Nice images ... already uploaded)

Nice decals for things I'm not familiar with, but they definitely look right! I'm still working on my standardized border.

All of the above. I have sealed sets for future use, opened but bagged sets that were previously displayed and will be again eventually, containers of carefully sorted parts and minifigs, and bags of just simply colour sorted parts. I have mocs in various states of construction, or in some cases, destruction. I make sound effects when I play, and I have minifigs talk to each other. Seems normal to me.

imperialshadows: Castle Month Edition™

Crown Kingdom (K-18/19) The King: Tiberius Lionheart His wife, Alvena, died a year ago of an unknown illness. He has always blamed himself, despite having done all he could, summoning the best care possible. His three sons, Rangdar, Leith and Krant were raised in the safety and comfort of his protection and wealth, becoming weak and spoiled. They fight constantly, often about who will be named King upon the death of their father. His daughter, Alysta, took after her mother and is full of spirit and independence. The King maintains a small council of advisors. Holcroft and Parn, who have served him for many years and are above reproach. One more recent addition to the council, Vrend, saved the King from an assassination attempt. The extended royal family: Duke Holgar: Younger brother of the King. Bit of a bumbler and not particularly bright, but good natured and kind. Countess Ravenia: Dark and brooding sister of Alvena who always thought that she should be Queen. Spends her days ordering her staff around and generally being disagreeable. Elgarth: Eldest son of Duke Holgar, nephew of the King. Royal Knight entrusted with overseeing castle security. Nhear and Fhar: Young sons of Duke Holgar, nephews of the King. 10yr old twins who spend most of their days playing in the royal gardens. Grandoth: Royal coachman and skilled warrior who previously served as a crown messenger. Distinguished himself in the same assassination attempt that earned Vrend his council position. Flangdor: Evil wizard whose sudden appearance in Crown Kingdom can't be a good sign. Has a long-standing feud/competition with Aluvar, but had always been too inept to be any real challenge. It is unclear if that is still the case. Aligned with whomever he thinks can do him the most good. No true loyalties except to himself. Castle Town (K-19) Barth: Bookseller. Hygand: Herb and potion seller. Lorndt: Information broker. Knows what's going on, often before it happens. Can be found in a dark corner of The Cork and Crown Pub. Larissa: Busty barmaid of The Cork and Crown Pub. Why did I add that detail? Why not?

Well... I was going to name the King, but it just never came up. Calling him the King seemed more efficient. I'll go make up some hierarchy for the character thread though, and introduce my mysterious new wizard and formalize who Grandoth is.

K-18/19 Crown Castle Outside the Throne Room I will not! You will! Bluervo and Pinky begin discussing the matter furiously in their native tongue. Would you quiet down? We're next to see the King, right after that messenger, and I don't want the lot of you embarassing me. This is very important business I'm on. Oh really? And just what would that be? I was about to ask the same thing myself. I didn't expect to run into you here, Flangdor. Still up to your usual dirty tricks and feeble attempts at magic? I'll have you know that I'm now a full fledged, certified and licensed Sorcerer! Correspondance school graduate, eh? Huh? HA HA HA HA! I will not tolerate your birds laughing at me! Stand back and I will send them to another dimension! Everyone else laughs at you, why shouldn't they? As for sending them somewhere, just try it ... Flangdor clears his throat, preparing to attempt just that as Grandoth enters the room and takes a position next to Aluvar. Appraising himself of the situation, Flangdor mutters something and leaves. What was he on about? Need some assistance? Nothing I can't handle. Third rate magician with a big hat and head to match. The throne room doors open, the messenger departs, appearing pleased by the results of his visit, and Aluvar is motioned inside. Well, it seems it's your time to see the King, I think I'll find something to eat. No lad, I think you should accompany me inside, this concerns you as well. Uh... sure. Aluvar and Grandoth enter the Crown throne room. Aluvar bows quickly, while Grandoth falls to one knee and stays there. Your majesty, it's good to see you again, though I wish it were under better circumstances. Yes, I too am pleased and dismayed at the same time, but you know that I would only summon you if it was vitally important to the Crown. I didn't think you would come. It is the answer to my prayers. I could tell the serious nature of the matter from your letter. I have felt the rising evil for some time, but only recently has it been so near. Oh yes, please allow me to introduce Grandoth, he should accompany me. I have already made sure that his heart and mind are true and loyal, he will serve well. Excellent. Uh, you may rise, my boy. I had intended to travel with him personally, before this attack. Now you will go in my place. Th-th-thank you, your majesty! It is an honour to serve you. All my life I have dreamed of an opportunity to ... The King waves his hand toward Grandoth, who immediately falls silent. Hmmm. You sure he's not a bit young? He'll be fine, this trip will mature him tremendously. That it will. That it will... The King hands Aluvar an assortment of papers, a small chest, and a pouch. Take care my friend, and godspeed. The safety of the Crown depends on you. Do what you must. Aluvar and the King exchange a few more pleasantries and a word about Flangdor, and then part ways. Come along, lad, we travel in the morning. Where are we going? Yeah? Where now? We weren't even supposed to be here! I'm not so sure about that. So, where then? You'll see.

Lando Calrissian. Not always who you think he is, but there for you when it matters. A smooth talker with a lot more going on inside than he ever lets anyone know. And as C-3P0 mentioned in one of the books, he has the mouth of a sailor.

They probably didn't sell for the same reason as any other Wild West themed toy of the 90's, it just wasn't interesting to kids, and I think most of that is because society decided that it wasn't 'acceptable' anymore. Had the minifig existed in the 60's, Wild West would have been hugely popular. Moving all of the popular themes into a virtual 60's world, I think it would have been the biggest seller, or at least in a constant fight with Space. That's what kids watched on tv in the form of westerns, and it's what they played: Cowboys and Indians or Spaceman. I still think my imaginary Zorro line would have done well too as a subtheme of WW, and provided a way to introduce conflict without it being the typical white man vs. native while using enough Pirate parts to attract those fans as well. Win/win. As a product of the late 70's and 80's, I never played cowboy at all. Star Wars and Indiana Jones were it for me. Both lines would have killed anything else in the 80's. All in all, themes are a product of their era. I now have an interest in WW from a more historical standpoint, not from a Cowboys and Indians angle. I want a train station and a town and all the things I want in City or Castle, the things we have a hard time getting: daily life. And female minifigs. I don't think the future bodes well for the line, sadly, despite the recent ambassador's poll. I don't see LEGO risking conflict with the PC crowd that seems to rule these days.

A question! Are there established royal families? I'm visiting the Crownies and would like to know who all of these people are, otherwise, I'll have to establish the entire family and somewhere along the way, I doubt everyone will keep track of what I call them, and confusion will ensue. So, what I'm proposing is that we set up such standards. Now, the complication is that doing it in this thread will ultimately get lost amidst the pages of discussion, so we'd almost need an entirely new thread to serve as a reference for who we might encounter that isn't controlled by a player, the NPCs, so to speak. I'm in Crown castle, and might visit the town during my stay. I hear they have a lovely book and magic store.

K-18/19 Crown Castle Front Gate After a rather uneventful, but informative trip, our band of travellers arrive at the front gate of Crown castle. Well, it looks like this is where we part company, good sir, for I have business with the royal family. With a flourish, Grandoth removes his robes revealing a rather impressive royal crest and produces a letter of passage which he shows to the guard standing at the gate. The guard, appearing more than moderately impressed, calls out for the gate to be opened, but then begins to eye Aluvar suspiciously. Wha' 'bout 'im then? 'es not with you, 'e needs to be movin' 'long. He does have a point there. Oh, right then, I suppose you'll be needing this. With an even grander flourish and a glimmer in his eye, Aluvar pulls his own letter out from behind the ear of the now confused guard. 'ow'd you do that? Do you really want to know? No, I don't 'spose I do. The guard now turns his attention to the letter he didn't even realise he was holding yet. Wha! Two in one day?!?! I 'spose you're both clear to continue on then... Might as well get back in the carriage, since we really are going to the same place. Why, thank you, lad! He didn't tell us he had business with the royal family. It's getting pretty bad when your own birds don't know what's going on. I wouldn't tell us either, we can't keep our mouths shut. Good point. The guard, now looking more bewildered than ever, just stares as the carriage continues on into the castle and the gate lowers. I got a bad feelin' 'bout this...

That would be a digital entry and is allowed. It should be posted the same way as any other entry, except, if possible, pm me a link to the ldraw file itself. Thanks for participating and welcome to EB!

If you're trying to indicate that you meant to have a different username, and accidentally selected your real first name, I'm certain that a kindly staff member could assist you, once one sees the problem. Until then, welcome to EB!

Welcome to EB! While I'm honoured that one of your first two posts was in the "A Pirate's Life!" discussion thread, you really should tell us more about yourself here! Be sure to check out the Big Billboard o' Doom™ at the end of my post for some great ways to get involved in this wonderful community that you have joined! And don't forget, you don't even need an official Pirate set to enter the contest, just a lot of imagination. If you own a set, you're that much ahead!

AAAAAHHHH!!!! Ok, I've said it before and I'll say it again, but I'll say it with a bit more emphasis this time. If it's on a sprue, it's one piece! 4 flowers, 4 coins, 2 harpoons, islander horns, WHATEVER. Now. Sorry you had to be the one to take that... Oh, and thanks for entering!

That's official animals. Brick built chickens are certainly ok. Penguins too, though that would take some explaining.

Looks good! I like the white here, just as I did in the Princess, and green makes a natural and striking choice for the detail. Great job! Next he'll accuse the Elf Prince of playing softball or something.

Very nicely done! I've always envisioned a town where all the streets are straight across a shelf like that, and plan to do something along those lines myself one day. It's nice to see it in action! I especially appreciate the way the buildings are adapted to fit the available space, yet look like something that could happen in real life. Cupboard Street On!