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Even the once quaint settlement of Notomys benefitted from the rebuilding across Historica that accompanied the coronation of the new Queen and relative peace. Modest industry in the form of saw and grain mills was supported by an influx of settlers from across the Enchanted Forest and beyond. With many struggling with the indigenous Jerboan name for the settlement, 'Evergreen Falls' became the more commonplace name. Build notes I displayed this MOC at the Wellington Brick Show, in September 2024. Its footprint was 18 baseplates (3x6), although there was also open caverns on the left hand side, so it was 20 in total. Based on some good tips from the GoH server on Discord, I built 32x64 sections using the Moduverse template from SweBrick. I had a few broad goals when I started the MOC: to have some mechanisms. Ultimately, there were 4 on display - the waterfall and sawmill powered by one motor and the windmill and a man cutting grain down powered by a second motor to have a decent amount of verticality, not just a flat scene. The rocky outcrop on the left helped achieve this, but I also incorporated two raised baseplates, which I find a fun challenge to integrate in a way that looks decent for a modern MOC density and at least some of it off-grid. While it cuts against the ultra-detailed style common in some of the best LEGO creations, I personally try to find uses for some BIG parts. The raised baseplates are one example, but the stables roof is a Belville mold, while the roof of the Adventurer's Guild uses Duplo roof pieces. I won't post them all here but there are close-up images in this album and a close up video of the whole build here. Videos
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This is Tom, a renowned bard from Avalonia, who has wandered far and wide across Historica, sharing his songs and stories. His travels have taken him to countless venues, each with its own trials. In Kaliphlin, there’s always sand in his boots, in Mitgardia, he nearly freezes walking from the inn to the stage; in Varlyrio, the seas leave him queasy and seasick; and in Nocturnus, the crowds are always dead… literally. In the end, he always comes back to Avalonia. Today, Tom is performing at the Woodland Amphitheater, one of Avalonia’s premier destinations. This naturally formed amphitheater is famed for its excellent acoustics and draws a large crowd from across the nearby lands, including some famed Avalonian adventurers and lords. When concerts are held, the Woodland Amphitheater comes alive with vendors and traders who set up shop around the grounds. Today, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of food and drink at the amphitheater. Vendors offer beer and wine, serve honey-glazed chicken hot off the spit, offer pipe weed and other smokes, and even magical shrooms. Outhouses are also provided for guests. [spoiler] Here are some overview shots of the build as well as a wip shot showing the stands. The amphitheater technique was roughly based on this build from Hardegon on Flickr. [/spoiler] The back of the build is built 5 bricks high so I can incorporate it into a LUG display we have been working on. Hope you enjoy! -
The Gyrdher family farm was not located along the main road. It was rare any walked by. Instead, it was Gyrder who discovered the world by walking to farms and cottage nearby the family farm. There was one cottage in particular that he visited regularly, Theodor. A straight-backed old man who did not receive visitors except for Gyrdher. Theodor had been in his cottage as long as Gyrdher could remember and he did not understand why others stayed away from him. He was a bit odd, Gyrdher noted. But watching him work with wood was fantastic. It was as if wood melted in his hands and was transformed into beautiful furniture or practical objects. Gyrdher could sit on his tree stump and just watch for hours without saying a word. This was probably what mades Theodor let him sit where he was without disturbing him in his work. There was something peaceful about watching Theodor working. Gyrder remember the first time he visited Theodor. Gyrder’s father needed a new ladder because their own had broken when Gyrder climbed up the haystack. Maybe he was seven, maybe eight. He remembers how angry his mother had been. Not at him but at his father. His father had muttered something about everything breaking sooner or later. His mother had said that not if Theodor made them. And so it was. The next day after breakfast, Gyrder and his father put on their coats and walked away to Theodor cottage. Once there, they were met by a grumpy old man. Before Gyrder's father had opened his mouth, Theodor had blurted out a few inappropriate words and that ladders should always be made of birch. "Only idiots make them out of pine." Gyrder could see his father completely speechless and bright red in the face. But from that day on, Gyrder was a frequent visitor to Theodor. He always quietly sat done on the tree stool outside the cottage and start watching Theodor working. As time went on, Theodor began to tell him more and more about the art of understanding wood and how to best make everything from everyday objects to beautifully crafted furniture and chandeliers. Gyrdher sat quietly, taking it all in. In his heart, Gyrdher felt that what he wanted most in life was to become a carpenter who could create beautiful things from wood with the same skill as Theodor. -
After a long evening, Valborgh had reached the last song in her performance. She started strumming her guitar and everyone in the room immediately recognized the melody Walking along the road. The melody was highly appreciated in North Withbo and especially when performed by Valborgh. “Here in North Withbo green forests and land… ” Valborgh began to sing. The room around her listened devoutly. When she come to the chorus, the time stood still as everyone in the room joined she and sing together “Under the branches of the oak. By its trunk. A girl sits with a duck in her arms…. in Avalonia she found a harbor.”. Valborgh takes the final chord on the guitar and smiles at everyone in the room. She loves her job as a bard. Getting to play in taverns or in large halls like this. As a wandering bard, she has the entire world as her playing ground. Or rather as far as her feet will carry her. Which is usually large parts of North Withbo.
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HISTORICAN SETTLEMENTS Historica is home to many towns, villages, hamlets, and even a few Cities. The Royal Cartographer's Guild of Albion and the Avalonia's foreign affairs minister wish to officially recognize the many settlements of Historica. As a prerequisite to official recognition and inclusion in the "Royal Registry of Historica's Locations of Note" and "Avalonian Sites and Monuments: a comprehensive guide" each settlement must prove that they contain the minimum facilities to provide for their residents. To establish your settlement, you must post MOCs from the following categories. These MOCs CAN be already completed, but they MUST not already be referenced to a different location. (if you try to alter a description of an existing MOC to fit this challenge, you will not be allowed to enter ANY settlements, so do not edit topics you already posted. you can add a post later on in your topic, but if I see that the topic was already posted before Feb 14th, but edited after Feb 13th, it will not be allowed as part of this challenge.) There are a couple of building types that can be counted for multiple types (a Fishery for example can be counted as a nautical AND agricultural). Here are the categories: REQ - Agriculture - Grains & Produce: Farm*, Mill, Granary, Orchard Agriculture - Livestock: Farm*, Cattle/Horse Ranch, Swineherd, Sheepfold, Fishery Nautical: Harbor, Shipwright, Quay, Fishery*, Ferryman REQ - Military: Keep, Barracks, Gatehouse, Tower, Castle, Fort Religious: Chapel, Monastery, Temple, Shrine Medical: Apothecary, Herbalist, Infirmary, Physician Hospitality: Food & Beverage: Bakery, Butcher, Winery, Brewery, Tavern REQ - Hospitality - Lodging: Inn, Stables, Coach House REQ - Laborers: Lumber Mill, Mine, Stone Cutter, Mason REQ - Craftsmen - General Goods: Cooper, Wainwright, Tannery, Dyer, Glass Blower Craftsmen/Merchant - Arms & Armor: Blacksmith, Bowyer, Fletcher, Armorer Craftsmen/Merchant - Clothing: Cobbler, Seamstress, Furrier, Woolen Mill Craftsmen/Merchant - Specialty: Candle Maker, Wood Carver, Bookbinder, Jeweler, Potter Services: Herald, Cartographer, Money Lender, Scribe, Courier, Shipping House Scholars: Observatory, Alchemist, Philosopher, Astrologer Entertainers: Minstrel, Fortune Teller, Performing Troupe, Theatre Administrative (Town or City only): Town Hall, Chancery, Forum, Courthouse Now, the examples provided are not the only things you can build in a category, they are just options. Also, the build must be substantial - showing an interior of one room, or throwing a bunch of bricks up on a plate will not be acceptable entries. Hamlet - There are 5 categories that are required for a Hamlet (the minimum recognized settlement) - Agricultural (either one), Military, Hospitality (either one), Laborer, and Craftsmen. Village - For a Village, you must meet the Hamlet requirements plus meet a total of 8 of the 16 categories. Town - For a Town, you must meet the Hamlet requirement, plus a minimum of 2 Craftsmen buildings, both Agricultural categories, and both Hospitality categories, plus meet a total of 10 of the 16 categories. City - For a City, you must meet the requirements for a Town, plus one administrative building, plus meet a total of 14 of the 16 categories. Port - For a Port, you must meet the Village requirements, including one Nautical building. For this task, there is no time limit, and again, is open to all Historicans. I will be starting a separate thread for this once I get home tonight where you can post a link to your topics. Each person should have only one reply in this topic, where they will post all of their entries. You can have more than one settlement recognized if you wish. You should only have one post per Settlement. Feel free to ask questions, but I will delete them once they have been answered, and compile the answers in the thread below. Do not post for a settlement unless you have a build to post. I will delete any topics that do not contain a link to an existing MOC (no MOCs in progress allowed either) Let me know if you have any questions. The list below captures almost all of the various ideas that have been used over the years in this thread. But again, even this extensive list is not exhaustive; if you think your build qualifies for a category, put it there. Creativity is always encouraged! Additionally, some items could go into other categories. For example, a wizard might be a scholar or an entertainer. An astrologer could be scholar or religious. An adventurer's guild could be hospitality food, or lodging depending on the offerings, etc., so ask if you have questions, but don't be too worried about the category. Build something awesome to your imagination and we will find a category for it. Agriculture Grains and Produce Farm Garden Mill Granary Marketplace Vineyard Orchard Foraging grounds Irrigation system Livestock Farm Cattle/Horse ranch Dairy Swineherd Goatherd Sheepfold Marketplace Kennel Beekeeper Fishery Hunting grounds Pastures Nautical Harbor Shipwright Quay Fishery Ferryman Port Dock Lighthouse Military Keep Barracks Gatehouse Tower Castle Fortified Bridge/port/manor/etc. Wall Beacon Cavalry Stables Ballista Tower Fort Religious Chapel Church Monastery Tomb Crypt Catacombs Cemetery Temple Mosque Shrine Monument Medical Apothecary Herbalist Infirmary/Hospital Mortician/Necromancer Torture Chamber Barber/Physician Hospitality Food & Beverage Bakery Butcher Winery Kitchens Brewery Café/Street Food Tavern Adventurer's Guild (and/or lodging depending) Pizzeria Shisha Cellar (wine, cheese, etc.) Lodging Inn Stables Coach house Celebrations (fits into Food or Lodging, depending) Wedding Festival Laborers Lumber Mill Grain Mill Mine Stone Cutter Wood Cutter Mason/Adobe Maker Stable Hand Cleaning Workers Field Hands Foresters Carter Diggers Quarry Wheelbarrower/Hauler Trapper (fur, etc.) Craftsmen/Merchants General goods Cooper Wainwright Tannery Carpenter Dyer Marketplace Fishing Rod Merchant Farrier Arms & Armor Blacksmith Bowyer Fletcher Siege workshop Armorer Clothing Cobbler Seamstress Textiles Furrier Woolen Mill Specialty Candlemaker Wood carver Stone Carver/Sculptor Goldsmith Bookbinder Florist Jeweler Horse Tamer Merchant's Hall/Guild Coal Merchant Magic/Potion Vendor Tinker Potter Luthier Mushroom groomer Glassblower Services Herald Cartographer Money lender General Store Scribe Courier (incl. Pigeons) Trading Post Shipping house/Warehouse Falcon trainer Scholars Observatory Alchemist Philosopher Library University/Academy Astrologer Astronomer School Wizard Entertainment Minstrel Fortune Teller Street Musicians Performing Troupe Brothel Sports Arena Theatre Presdigitator (magician) Fighting pit Ostrich racing Puppeteer Administrative (Town or City only) Town Hall Chancery Forum Council Building/chamber Administrative Building Meeting Hall Customs House Palace Embassy Courthouse
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After a long time of inactivity I have decided to build something again. The Townsquare of Oxenfurt.
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The Stories of Everwater and Sam Weatherstone - Story Index 01 Return to Everwater More pictures in the spoiler: - - - - - Spring has come to Avalonia and to Everwater, but not only sunshine has arrived. Terrible news has reached Sam Weatherstone and Alric Ellerion in Petraea, where they are currently studying. 'Sam, Sam!' cries Alric. 'My father... he's dead! He's dead!" With a shaking hand, he hands Sam the letter that had arrived that morning. His eyes speak of grief and disbelief. Sam reads the letter, his hand shaking as he holds it. His other hand is on his friend's shoulder, trying to comfort him. The letter reads: Dear brother, Our father is dead. They speak of tragic circumstances, but nobody knows exactly what happened. They found him in the tower chamber — you know the one, he loved to be up there, looking out over his beloved sea and counting the ships entering the bay, freeing his mind. Master Grenich was also up there with him. They found him dead in a side corridor, he must have fought to the last second as he was covered in wounds. Our own uncle, Ureth, has tried to claim our father's position, but my sources have provided me with information linking him to our father's death. It must have been an assassination. Our loyal friends have stood by me in my accusations. Heated arguments led to a skirmish. Now that Master Grenich is also dead, our troops are leaderless. However, Eric was able to gather some of them and fight back. Ureth fled with some troops to the nearby forest, claiming that I was trying to take over my father's position. With Mother long gone, and now Father too, I am the last of House Ellerion in Everwater. You must return immediately, you are the rightful heir to our father. We need you back in Everwater, and you must bring Sam with you. The troops trust him, you and I trust him, his family has stood by our side for decades, and I miss him. We must seek truth and justice in this matter. Your loving sister Anna Sam looked at Alric, barely processing what he had just read. 'Alric, we must immediatly return to Everwater' Sam said with a shaking voice. Alric looked at his friend, 'let's return home Sam' With that, Sam Weatherstone and Alric Ellerion set off for home, back to Everwater. Their journey gave them time to think about what had happened in Everwater, to grieve, and to make plans. One sunny day, they reached the county border. They had taken a narrow, less travelled path through the hills, but even then, an Everwater watchtower marked the border and greeted the new lord of Everwater. On smaller paths like this one, a simple tower houses a watch troop of four soldiers; on bigger routes, there could even be a castle guarding the border. - - - - - I had great fun building this MOC (my first bigger MOC and the first in the stories of Sam Weatherstone and Everwater) and even greater fun writing a short story about why Sam and Alric have to return to Everwater. I hope you also enjoy it! -
The Tales of Lady Gwenllian Castle Construction at Prenmôr The winter in Prenmôr had been cold but largely uneventful. No more work on the castle was possible with the cold weather, which prevented any new mortar from setting, and the partially built walls were covered with straw and daub to insulate them until spring. Aside from winter brewing, which kept Lady Gwenllian and some of her household busy, there was little to do besides repairs and sharpening tools. The same had not been true for Ambassador Gisela. Gisela had learned from her father Staffen that the revenge for her brother's death was at hand, and she had traveled back to Varlyrio to take part. The usual fraught and overly complex machinations Varlyrio was known for had transpired, but this time her father wound up on the losing side. Staffen had been betrayed by cowards, as she told it, and Poppa had been kidnapped in Kaliphlin from her secret location, with her bodyguard Tsiri, the Kaliphlin Champion, having been murdered in the process. Gisela, ruthless as ever, had bribed, threatened, and eviscerated her way through the secrecy surrounding the kidnapping, and, again as she told it, rescued her sister from a fortified residence in Kaliphlin where she was held captive by mercenaries paid by the De Carlo family who (at the time) sat in the Rego's chair in Varlyrio. Presently, Lady Gwenllian walked through the brisk spring air, observing progress on the castle construction with Gisela and her younger sister Poppa struggling to keep up with their long strides. Mohatu, ever watchful, trailed not far behind. "So you did not have to fight the De Carlos?" Lady Gwenllian asked. "No, m'lady, only the mercenaries, who were no match for our hired muscle. The De Carlos had left Poppa with them, since they themselves were too incapacitated from the qui amat capras disease." "Isn't that the uniquely caprine venereal affliction arising from direct contact?" Lady Gwenllian asked. "Yes," Gisela nodded. "It is fatal and victims deteriorate quickly once symptoms appear, but it can lay dormant for years. Fortunately, it cannot be passed from person to person. Unfortunately, or so it would appear, there was a family proclivity for a, er.... herd mentality, since few of the De Carlos were spared," Gisela quipped. "I guess that's one way to ... goat," Lady Gwenllian commented, smirking at her own jest and rather proud of herself for being able to make a pun in the Historican language that was still at times a little new to her. "I am glad that you are back. The winter allowed some fine brewing, and we are now have a large stock to sell. Are you ready to find some trading partners?" she asked. Gisela smiled her crooked, mischievous smile. Seeing the expression on Gisela's face, Poppa skipped a step, understanding the trouble it meant. However, she knew that Gisela's scheming would not be directed at her, so she picked her skirt hem up off the ground a bit more and ran forward another few steps to catch up. "Yes, I believe there are some nearby dwarven communities that are always thirsty," Gisela said. Lady Gwenllian nodded her approval. "We will need plenty of gold to finish the structure." She turned to face the construction and nodded toward the workers. Gisela and Poppa watched the work with her. "Why are the walls so thick, m'lady?" Poppa asked. Lady Gwenllian smiled. "The walls are thick to stop rocks and other devices fired from siege equipment, and to hold all the weight of the stone above." She pointed to the round tower and wall section being constructed in front of them. "The lower part of the wall flares out, and is called a batter. It not only strengthens the construction because the base is wider than the top, but it also deflects missiles dropped from the defenders on the wall above out into the attackers below." Poppa's eyes widened. "The inner and outer part of the wall is solid stone that is held together with mortar, but the inside is filled with gravel, lime, and other small rocks. This provides solidity and also pours out onto attackers if the wall is ever breached, say, with a battering ram." Lady Gwenllian pointed to the scaffolding. "The walls are built with natural placement for scaffolding. The workers call them 'putlog' holes, and logs are stuck into these recesses in the stone wall. These form a ramp upward, and are braced to the ground with other logs. To these are added a ramp and then further supports. Every so often, there is another set of holes. In this way, ramped scaffolding all around the structure allows workers to slide heavy mortar, stones, or gravel up the ramp without having to lift and carry it up stairs." "Putlog holes at the top of the wall are even and allow for hoardings to be installed on the walk in times of war. These project out over the wall and allow cover for defenders to drop missiles and other weaponry onto attackers." Poppa watched the workers for a while, fascinated with all the simple, yet rather ingenious engineering and design principles that went into this structure. Gisela tugged at Poppa's sleeve. "Let us return to Lady Gwenllian's house. You shall remain under constant guard until we are assured the threat from Varlyrio is passed, and that may not be for some time." Lady Gwenllian nodded, and turned to Poppa, bending over and putting her massive hand on Poppa's small shoulder. "I give you my word I will protect you while you remain in my care," she said to Poppa, who smiled up at the enormous warrior. Lady Gwenllian couldn't be sure, but she thought she saw a slight smile of approval on Muhato's leonine face out of the corner of her eye. ---------- Well, it has been a while! After my (hopefully final) move, it took quite a while to get the house fixed up and my Lego collection organized, but I am back in business now and hope to be putting out some more builds soon! It took me some time to learn how to insert images now that BBCode is gone, and I'm still unsure how to do spoilers or if that is even possible, so hopefully this post isn't too cluttered. Glad to have Lady G moving along again, and hope that we can get some new fires lit here in the guilds. As always, C&C welcome!
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In the meadows and forests of Avalonia live many folk who lead humble and peaceful lives. In this case, a young woman lives alone with her trusty cat in this cozy cottage. Thanks for viewing! I built this as part of a collab with my lug for an English Cottage Garden, and I built the central cottage. I'm not entirely happy with the plain baseplate as the base, but that is the style we went with to integrate the parts together. It also has an interior built by my friend, but it is more modern style so I decided not to include it here. Comments and feedback always welcome
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Until then I hadn't been very inspired by the theme of this contest, and I also wanted to save as many of my bricks as possible for the Brickscalibur contest. Finally, on Sunday, just as I'd got used to the idea of not taking part, I got an inspiration that I hope you'll like. The Avalonia colors are obvious and the theme is respected without having to build something huge! Here's my herbalist's cart! Sylfaerd Gilric, a discreet man, lives peacefully in the village of Marginea, nestled in the heart of Avalonia. An accomplished herbalist, he spends half his time exploring the depths of the enchanted forest, in search of plants with healing properties. The other half of the year, he works as a traveling merchant, criss-crossing the kingdom to offer the fruits of his labor to the inhabitants. Among his loyal customers is Dovhakiin, the mage of the dragon clan, who particularly appreciates the natural remedies concocted by Sylfaerd. However, the herbalist's success is not without danger. Some zealous soldiers are looking for a rare plant: dragon's grass. Reputed to inhibit fear and once used on the battlefield, it has been banned throughout the kingdom after causing numerous deaths. If they were to find even a tiny quantity of it in the cart, Sylfaerd would be in serious trouble especially as the few leaves he hide in a bag of herbal tea are destined for Queen Alienora herself. Sylfaerd finds himself juggling his passion for plants with the dangers of his trade. His discretion and prudence will be his best allies in protecting his secrets and continuing to make a living from his passion.
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You can find a not-so-small trading post, not far from the village, known as Owhur. The residents visit the post almost every week once or twice, to sell, buy, or just browse the goods. You can find more pictures, in the Album.
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My plan for this challenge was a full-fledged elven merchant's guildhouse. Then life happened, and I realised I would never be able to finish it in time - even with the extended deadline. But I really wanted to participate; so here is an unassuming entry, just for the enjoyment of building and fleshing out Historica. PS. Of course, I couldn't help but write a short story. A story that would take place a few years before my main storyline in Embervale, but featuring the same main characters. Elmire's Couture House Meborin, Avalonia. The great merchant city of the High Elves. A place of awe and wonder, where only the finest was good enough. In the upper part of the city, Elmire’s couture house was the kind of confidential place where a few high-end, unique articles were offered to the admiration of selected guests. Trivial things such as prices were never, ever spoken. If gold ended up changing ownership, it was patronage of the Arts. A sign of recognition of Elmire’s talent – nothing to do with menial trade. When Lord Dresghar, Ambassador of the Dark Elves in Meborin, solicited an appointment, Elmire got a bad feeling. Yet the Ambassador himself was as fine as a Dark Elf could be: he had a charming smile, beautiful blue eyes and the refined manners expectable from a diplomat. Alas, he was also afflicted with a niece who had none of these things but needed a new ball gown. “What have you done to me? I can’t breathe anymore!” Alrune cried out, struggling to free herself from the garment that was crushing her ribs. “Get me out of here!” “You just need to stop panicking, honey, everything’s all right,” Dresghar placidly replied. “Really, that’s all you can come up with? I’ll stop panicking once I’ll be able to breathe again!” Ties. There were ties beneath Alrune’s fingers. If only she could loosen them up…She felt searing pain in her forefinger – but insisted. Hopefully those nasty strings would give up before her nails. “That dress of yours is an exquisite masterpiece, dear.” She heard Dresghar’s voice say in an insufferable worldly tone. “Youthful yet elegant, with just a hint of glamour. That’s how a proper elf maiden should look like.” What? To hell with elegance and glamour – she wanted to breathe! And now, from the corner of her tearful eye, she saw the dressmaker smile blissfully at her uncle. None of them seemed to intend to move even a little finger to save her. All right. Too bad for the dress – it did look good, she had to admit, but it was trying to kill her. Under the increasingly horrified gaze of the dressmaker, she created tiny, glowing darts of magical force from her bleeding fingertips. And then, unceremoniously, she sliced the back of the garment. -- Epilogue Smelling salts were needed to revive Elmire after the incident, and it took Dresghar an elaborate floral arrangement and two boxes of candied violets to obtain forgiveness for the affront to her creation. Alrune kept the dress. Even adjusted to a more sensible fit, it was still as mesmerizing as Elmire had imagined it. Two more pictures... -
My entry for Brickscalibur's "Enchanted Forest" category. And a glimpse of how winter can look like deep in the Enchanted Forest of Avalonia, where the elusive Tellurites live peacefully in their crystal caves... Close-up photos in the hidden section below. The cast!
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My entry to the 12x12 vignette category of this years Summer Joust 2024. (My very first MOC) "Tax money is collected, stored and protected. But how about it being stolen. A scene how it could happen in any city of Avalonia"
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Outside the Faeril city gates, a cattle market is held every summer. Avalonia's cattle breeders take their highland cattle to market. Farmers from all over Avalonia come to to buy these robust and cute cows. Well adapted to the landscape. The location of the market is ideal for traders. It is near to the convenient taverns inside Faeril. At the same time, it is outside the Faeril city gates and no duty need be sent to the settlement. Something all economical traders appreciate. IMG_4964 IMG_4969 IMG_4970 IMG_4972
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I used my entry for this book III- challenge in the ‘Fantastic feasts’-category for Brickscalibur as well! “For years and years small domestic commerce and trades simply took place by the cliffs on the riverside. In time, Wifgrir, the duke of Dandelume, saw a great potential in the location in this riverside part of his municipality. Mostly due to its availability from water and nearby larger roads. He therefore ordered a completion of a small fortification and garrisoned soldiers within. With time of relative peace and stability the trading routes brought goods and merchants from near and far. The dandelumians could storage and bargain their notorious avalonian wine and earthenware for merchandise from all over Historica. It was common for the garrisoned soldiers to have their meals, large or small, outside the eastern walls of the fortification, to have a moments peace and quiet from the noisy commerce going on inside. This also gave them time to check the stored wine and see to the earthenware in an enclosed space.” -
My entry, as a team with @Sympatik Brick, for the collaborative category of Brickscalibur. Check his build here! And, also, a new episode in my main storyline the Chronicles of Embervale... THE BUILD My very first vehicle, and very first attempt at creating other Dark Elves than my main characters Alrune and Dresghar. I'm now very tempted to make a full-fleshed faction, Warhammer-miniatures-style, but I digresss. Here is a high-end but cumbersome carriage of the Dark Elves, traveling through the rugged mountains around Embervale and getting to know the local population... More details of the decor, minifigs and carriage in the spoiler section below. THE STORY Previously in the Chronicles of Embervale: a flashback brought us back when Embervale was ruled by a certain Governor Voronthir. Alrune had never set foot there, and Evrart was a sergeant for a neighbouring baron of the human Realms. As said baron was visiting Embervale to solve a minor conflict with the Governor, all of a sudden, the bell of the village made its ring heard… As the bell started to ring in Embervale, the quiet village became a hive of activity. Such a backwater corner of the Elven Empire hardly ever got visits from officials – even the local governor set foot outside of the castle only if he was really forced to do so. Imperial elves mingled as little as possible with the human populace of their most remote borders. But the bell was announcing imperials and rumours and contradictory information were spreading like wildfire. Who? Why? Good news, or bad omens for the villagers? The visiting baron was not the last to want to know more. Upon interrogation, the town crier explained him he had rung the bell because the miller’s son said there were imperial troops approaching. The boy had been warned by an adventurer. Who had heard it from one of the foresters. Who said a little bird had told him. At which point the baron’s sergeant had the greatest difficulty to prevent his liege from punching someone in the face. As the rest of the day passed on without any imperial elf showing up, most of the visitors from the Adventurers’ Guild left the village for places with more action and less damp squids. The baron, meanwhile, decided to stay. Partly because he had no intention to give up on talking to the Governor despite the hermetically closed gates of the castle, and partly because the local beer was excellent. And as he and his men were about to order their third round, a small black bird came to land on their table... “What the…? A crow?” One of the soldiers exclaimed with a large yet imprecise hand gesture intended to expel the intruder. “I’m not a crow,” the bird stated, scowling at the man. “Not everything that’s black and flies is a crow, you ignorant grunt. I’m an alpine chough!” An awkward silence was the only answer – during which the baron glanced at his beer with much suspicion. Yellow bill and red feet, you see,” the bird went on, unimpressed. “That’s an easy way to distinguish an alpine chough from a crow, which is all black. Anyways. If you get me a portion of this excellent roasted ham they serve here, I’ll tell you all you want to know about the elves who are approaching. Who were approaching – actually.” Perhaps it was the beer, perhaps it was curiosity, the fact remains that the baron ordered a portion of ham for this unusual informant. And, between two pecks at its lunch, the little bird told them about travellers it had seen in the mountains above Embervale. A big carriage and a handful of riders. They were what humans called dark elves, most probably, because they were clad in black and there were pointy bits on the (black) coach. The chough had spent some time perched on the carriage, and one of the elves had given it half of an excellent goat cheese. Then it had left them to tend to some important bird business, and the next time it had seen them, they were as good as dead. “What happened?” The baron snapped when the bird chose this precise moment to take the time to preen its feathers. "They were ambushed!” The chough answered with such a sudden wing gesture that the closest soldier spilled his beer. “Scary creatures! Cats and wargs! Claws and fangs – and weapons! They took the carriage!” "Any elf left alive?” The sergeant enquired. “Maybe. At least, I haven’t found the body of the nice one who gave me cheese.” “I would have expected the survivors to show up in Embervale cryin’ to their governor like little kids to their mama!” The baron sneered. “You dare to explain why you tell us rather than some pointy-eared rascal?” “You’re not even able to differentiate a chough from a crow! Don’t expect me to care for the differences between you primates,” the bird replied in the same tone. This time, the sergeant was not quick enough to prevent his liege from throwing a punch. But don’t you worry for the little chough! It dodged, and spent the rest of the evening enjoying roasted ham - while watching one of those classic tavern brawls that is bound to happen in any self-respecting fantasy story when someone loses their temper in a bar.
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Gyrdher has left his parents and the family farm to seek adventure in Avalonia. At a market place near the river, he met a merchant who was getting ready to travel with his goods to Faeril. Gyrdher asked to come along and offered to row as he has no money to pay with. The merchant, who did not want Gyrdher to row, let him come along without payment. The journey went through the landscape of Avalonia. The river wound its way through a beautiful landscape of green fields and huge oak forests. Gyrdher stood in the stern and took in everything he saw and enjoyed the journey. He has never before been this far away from home. His stomach tingled with excitement and curiosity. During the whole afternoon they were rowing quietly down the river. At one point, the river narrows and the water starts rushing. A ruin from an older fortification was located on the river bank. Gyrdher was fascinated by the ancient ruin. The crew on the other hand did not have time to take in the view. They had total focus on the river. This was the most difficult passage of the entire journey. The narrow river and the ruin that has partially fallen into the river creating an underwater reef, makes this part extremely difficult to pass. I The crew has made this trip many times before. But their concentration were on the edge. They know of countless of other boats that have sunk due to inattention at this location. After a few intense minutes, they passed the narrow rushing part of the river. They leave the ruin behind and the boat floats ones again on the quiet and calm river. The forest thinned out. Further away beyond green fields, the outlines of a town was seen. The merchant turns to Gyrdher. “There Gyrdher, you have your city, Faeril.“
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The woods of Avalonia were home to many critters, familiar and rare, wild and civilised, magical and mundane. One that was rarely sighted was the shy talzoin. Sometimes called “cave-bears”, the talzoin lived underground in the Wizard’s Spine mountains. The bipedal creatures were covered in thick grey fur and sported four eyes, which granted clear sight in the dark caverns and tunnels they carved in their subterranean domain. On odd occasions, talzoin would emerge into the surface forests for a spot of moonlight.
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My entry to the "Farmstead Figures" category of this year's edition of Brickscalibur - and a handful of hard-working citizens for Avalonia! --- Hademar Half-Dwarf had lost two fingers and half a leg to war. Yet he deemed himself fortunate, for when peace had come the Baron had granted him several acres of fertile land and a few heads of cattle. This enabled him to marry his long-time sweetheart. They were blessed with five healthy and hard-working daughters. And for years their little farm kept thriving nicely. Until one day an old friend of his, a former brother in arms, showed up at the gates with a frightened young girl. An orphan, he said. A poor little thing he had rescued from brigands. They talked about the old times, they talked about their fallen fellows and about the ones who lived, and his comrade soon talked Hademar into welcoming the girl in his household. And while he welcomed her with warm words and open arms, Hademar felt deep in his heart that this meant trouble for his farm and his family. From left to right: Hersent, Heloïse, Hildegard with baby Hemma, Heilwig, Hademar Half-Dwarf, his old comrade Renart, the orphan girl, and Hermine with her horse Hero.
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Gyrdher had traveled with a merchant to Faeril. The boat was docked at the waterside a short distance outside the city gate, at an unofficial market where no duty was required to buy or sell goods. Something that an economical merchant appreciates. Gyrdher therefore had to walk the last short distance into the city. Which he didn't mind. It was with some trepidation he looked at Faeril. Actually, he did not know what he had expected but it didn't look as impressive as he had imagined when he was sitting in the bow of the boat half asleep. Faeril's city wall was nothing more than a plank that marks the economic boundary of the city. Gyrdher was a little disappointed. He had dreamed of a noble city with high walls and watchtowers. The merchant saw the disappointment in Gyrdher's face. “It doesn't look like much to the world. Right?" He nodded at the plank that didn't look well built. “The city has not spent money on walls. When you enter the center of the city, you will not be disappointed.” The merchant scratched his jaw while looking at the plank. “And by the way, I don't think a carpenter will be unemployed for long in this town. At least if he is willing to work.” Gyrdher was instantly in a better mood. He helped the merchant unload his goods and then headed for the customs house. In front of the customs house a tired customs officer was sitting at a desk. It had been a long day. The sun was going down and soon the city gate would close so that he could go home to his wife. He licked his lips as he was thinking about the soup waiting for him at home. The customs officer waked up from his daydreaming when Gyrdher approached him. "And what are you going to pay duty for?” he says a little sourly, while the thought of the soup disappear. “My name is Gyrdher.” says Gyrdher little shyly. He had not expected these sharp words from the customs officer. "I am a carpenter who wants to find work in the city." The word carpenter made the customs officer stop mourning the soup that had disappeared. A smile spread across his face. “Then you have come to the right place, my son. If you can fix the stairs to my house, you can have a roof over your head for the night and some warm soup as compensation.” Gyrdher's stomach rumbles, which the customs officer laughingly interprets as a yes. “Good, I'll close the gates. Then we can go to my house and have supper.” Gyrdher thinks to himself that this day seems to be ending really well. A roof over his head and bowl of food. Gyrdher needs nothing more from life. Gyrdher works quickly. Fixing the stairs was easy for someone who had to fix all that was broken on the farm at home. While Gyrdher works, the customs officer stands by and tells him about his wife's soup that was waiting for them. “… and she only cooks it on Thursdays. It’s the richest soup you can taste in Faeril.” Gyrdher realised that he had probably missed half of what the customs officer talked about as he was concentrating on the work. But it seemed that the customs officer did not expect Gyrdher to answer. Gyrdher gathers his tools and turns to the customs officer. "Then I’m done and your stairs is whole again". The customer officer shook his head as he woke up from his daydreaming. "Good, good" He says a little tired and almost sour. The soup had disappeared from his thoughts again. Then he shined upp. “Do you know what awaits us?” He says expectantly. Gyrdher can't hold back a smile. “Could it be Faeril's best soup?” The customs officer smiled back even wider. “Right, my son.” Gyrdher satt on the edge of the bed after supper with a smile. “What a fantastic first day of my adventure. This morning I woke up at mother and father's farm house.” Gyrdher told himself. “Packed my few belongings and set out on a journey in Avalonia. How lucky I have been to travel with a merchant to Faeril. And then got both food and shelter over my head just by helping the customs officer with his broken stairs.” Gyrdher laid down on the bed. “I wonder what surprises tomorrow can offer.” he thought as his head touched the pillow and he was asleep immediately. Dreaming of soup.
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My entry for the « Old but Gold » category in Guilds of Historica: final contest. I’ve built a new part for the blacksmith but they can fix one to the other… i've added too two « red light brick ». It’s also my entrie for « Trading Place » category in Brickscalibur challenge. Walt Herboï is now a dragon’s clan knight. He needs to choose a sword, Hoppefully, the best blacksmith in Avalonia is living in Marginea, his apprentice is really talented too! Old (on the left) but Gold (on the right) Old AND Gold together! Link to the « Old » Moc:
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A thread for AI generated or other concept art for Avalonian settings. Reserving first post for highlights.
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Nestled in the busy streets of the city of Albion in Avalonia is a cozy bookstore. Although small in size, it is packed from floor to ceiling with books of all shapes and sizes, and is renown for being one of the best places in Historica to find knowledge. From ancient tomes to magical spellbooks, Nocturnus cookbooks full of questionable recipies to Varlyarian romances, any type of book can be found here, for the right price... Notes: Hi guys! This is a 8x32 Modular Bookstore I built for my LUGs build challenge . Of course, I decided to build mine medieval themed and set in Avalonia. I posted this a bit ago on Flickr, but hadn't gotten around to posting it here until now. Hope you enjoy
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Fleshing out Embervale Castle...and taking part in this year's Summer Joust, in the "Subterranean" category. --- Guard Captain's log, arcane date-time 140630B SUM 1322 Intruders broke into the basement. Two killed, two captured. One vanished. No own casualty. Minor material damage. Prisoners interrogated: they’re from the Adventurers' Guild, tasked to retrieve some magic gizmo (see attached drawing). Contracting party unknown. They had a map marking the hidden room in Lord Dresghar's cheese cellar. I'm off to the city to have a word with the representative of said Adventurers' Guild. Side note: the trap in the goblins’ crypt was triggered. No need to feed the plant-thing below before next week. --- Level 0: from the scullery, access to the well and to the storage room below (with a handy goods elevator - carrying barrels while using a ladder is quite a delicate task). Level -1: just a regular storage room, with food and jumble. Level -2: the goblin guards' crypt. The idol's pedestal is held together only due to the friction of its side plates. Messing with it - e.g. removing the idol - triggers a trapdoor that leads direcly to the lower level. Concealed behind a sturdy, regular stone wall without any secret door, this level also includes a treasure room shielded by a shadowguard... Level -3: let me introduce you to Eriaxis Monstrosa, a subterranean carnivorous plant from the Kolgari realm, that definitely appreciates the snacks the trapdoor above keeps sending it! Level -4: the cheese cellar and the well. And a secret door hidden in the wall, that leads to a (rather disappointing) secret room...
