Fantasy Faire 2013 – Page 2 – Inara Pey: Living in a Modemworld

Fantasy Faire: under the DragonSpire and over the Crimson Field

Posted on April 24, 2013March 28, 2023 by Inara Pey

DragonSpire. The very name caused me to shiver, despite the warm sun on my back. A place of legends dark and old; where people say drows and goblins and dwarves and nixies all dwell together hording the wealth of the unwary and waylaying innocent travellers in the name of the dragon lord.

It was not a place I wanted to pass through, but like it and the lands beyond, I had no choice if I wished to succeed in my quest. For the only way to reach the great hall of the Royales lay through the dark tunnels of DragonSpire and then onward through the ruins of the Crimson Fields. So, with trepidations in my heart, I looked up at the westering sun one last time, adjusted the pack upon my back, and stepped into the winding tunnel which lead down to the realm of the dragon lord…

And drows I did find. And dwarves and nixies and goblins and all. But the tales did not do them, nor their great dragon lord justice. For beneath the barren rock plains of DragonSpire lay a vast kingdom, rich in ores and crystals and where bright, clear waters splashed and feel through channels and falls, joining with the laughter of folk who only waylaid travellers by offering them goods and provisions to buy and offering a warm hearth and filling meal in return for a good tale or two of the goings-on in the world. Even the drows, tall and dark-robed, were fair of heart and generous of soul, offering many a spell and potion to assist a traveller on their way.

Unless you have seen the tunnels and caverns of DragonSpire yourself, you cannot imagine the wonders of this underground city, where the sun rarely sunshine, and yet where grow bright flower and fungi, softening the hard walls and adding a natural warmth wherever they grow, and where great crystals are prized not because of their worth, but because of their colour and light.

I should have liked to stay longer with these strange but friend folk of the underground, but my time was short, and I knew I still hade far to go before I would draw nigh to the palaces of Magnificat. So it was, after many a fair trade, well-provisioned for the rest of my journey, I emerged from the caverns of DragonSpire at the very edge of the mountains under which they lay, to find myself on the very edge of the Crimson Fields.

The Crimson Fields! Here it is said that long ago, the last of the line of knightly order, together with his companions, faced down his mortal enemy as both strove to reach and understand the secrets which lay within a great stone tower. Who knows is the legend is true; but a tower does indeed rise from the plains, and is surrounded by the remnants of an ancient city, the buildings all roof-less, with time-eroded stone walls entwined in overgrown rose thorns. Between them and the great tower, and surrounding it on all sides lay a great field of blood-red roses which rippled under the breeze and filled the air with a heady scent.

In my culture, flowers of red are oft used in remembrance of those who has passed from this life, and so this sea of red, tho it be filled with the cruel tips of thorns ready to snag and cut the unwary, gave me pause to consider all those who had fought their fight against their own mortal enemies within, and who had passed into the next realm. They were the reason for my journey, and the reason so many sought to visit the wonders of Lumenaria, Evensong Woods, Titan’s Hollow, DragonSpire and more.

And so it was that I following the path down from the caves of DragonSpire and onto aged footpaths of this broken and ancient city, joining with others who also tarried here on their own journeys and pilgrimages, and lit a candle to remember those I had lost.

Region designs by Khyle Sion (DragonSpire) and Laufey Markstein (Crimson Fields).

DragonSpire sponsored by: The Arcanum; featuring:Dark Goddess Designs; Curious Kitties;Favourite Genes; Black Veil Outfitters;The Golden Thorn; ~Refined Wild~; and with themed stores: Niekra’s Dreams; Wilds of Organica; Tayren’s Fantasy Fashions; Sparkle Skye Designs; Elvenbreath; Dysfunctional Designs; *.:!Completely oBVious!:.*; Talevin’s Designs; Whatz; Analog Dog Hair.

Crimson Fields sponsored by TRIDENT; featuring: lassitude & ennui; [ContraptioN]; Satyrs Moon; FallnAngel Creations; meadowWorks; Unzipped; and with themed stores: The Muses; Vengeful Threads; Psst…Here Kitty, Kitty; Kishi Creations; ImpWerks; – NaLa –; MysticHope Design; TempT; The Elegant Goth; De La Soul.

Key of Hope Hunt

Don’t forget – the first part of the Hunt for the Key of Hope has started across all eight of the main themed regions of Fantasy Faire, and the Valley of Ish’Nar will witness the start of the second part of the Hunt from Thursday 25th April. For full details on the hunt, please refer to the Key of Hope Prologue and How to Play pages on the Fantasy Faire website

Total raised to date for RFL: L$4,359,461 (approx. $17,437 USD).

Fantasy Faire: Drax does Ravenshard!

Posted on April 23, 2013March 28, 2023 by Inara Pey

Draxtor Despres tapped me about a fun little video he put together for Mayah Parx’s Ravenshard build at Fantasy Faire 2013. It’s just 50 seconds long – so enjoy!

I’ll be visiting Ravenshard later in the week in my Faire travels.

With thanks to Draxtor Despres.

Fantasy Faire: the climb to Titan’s Hollow

Posted on April 23, 2013March 28, 2023 by Inara Pey

The elves of Yuale Nura would not allow me to travel onwards alone. “Your way must take you through the Valley of Ish’Nar, filled with wonders great and also dreadful, and where the heart can be drawn to seek the Key of Hope,” they told me. “And while that is a great and noble quest, perhaps it is one for your return, when our kinsmen of Caras Calar will bring you back to us, and we well all seek the key together…”

And so, with heavy heart, I departed the tree tops of Evensong Woods; but I did not travel alone, for a small company of elves travelled with me, longing to hear the sound of water against rock and see their brethren on the high walkways of Caras Calar.

At first our journey took us deeper into the great forest, the path winding between great trunks which gradually thinned as the road began to climb. As the days passed, so the deeps of the woodland fell ever further behind us, and my companions began to sing less. High peaks rose before us, their tops held by sunlight when all below was deep in the day’s end twilight. Eventually, we came to a great gorge, as if riven into the high peaks by a great axe: the Valley of Ish’Nar, guarded by the tall, silent figures carved into the living rock, great swords held at rest before them.

The Valley of Ish'Nar — The Valley of Ish’Nar

Here our mood became sombre as we travelled through the valley, passing among those who had come in search of the Key of Hope – and what I had been told was true; my heart yearned to join them. But I knew my quest lay in another direction for now. And so we followed the stone road, passing ancient ruins and lonely buildings of which my companions would say little, until we reached a great falls, and before it, a stone-built bridge, with one arch collapsed into the waters below.

“That is the way we must pass. Beyond the bridge lay the stairs and the road to Caras Calar. But beware! the water is swift and cold; tread with care as we have no wish to fish you from the waters a dozen leagues from here!”

So we crossed the bridge and threw down ropes which we used to descend to the waters below, crossing with care yet with haste; yet another day was drawing to a close and my companions were eager to show me the wonders of Titan’s Hollow as the sun set. Beyond the waters of the falls, after a steep climb, we rejoined the path and climbed broad stairs which soon became a carven path, cut into the rocks of the valley. And so it was, as the sun descended before us, another valley opened before us, this one deep and wide, surrounded by tall cliffs and filled with clear waters and over which, suspended like a hundred gleaming lanterns, lay the cliff city of Calas Calar.

Those who have not visited the city can scarce understand the magnificence of its beauty or the wonders of its design; crystal-walled houses, framed in gold, glass-like walkways and crystal stairways, all suspended on great golden chains cast across the clear waters of the valley from the high cliffs, and everywhere flowers and plants the likes of which the world has not otherwise seen!

Swiftly, we descended the path to join the broad stairs leading up to the great city and, spied from above, we were quickly joined by the fair folk of those high houses, eager to greet their cousins and brethren from the deep woods. I was welcomed as well, and many a wish for may stay to be long and refreshing were given; and looking up at the great houses and passing the tall flowers, inhaling their rich and delightful scent, I knew that my journey would again face a pause.

Region designs: Valley of Ish’Nar by Rynn Verwood and Titan’s Hollow by: Elicio Ember

Titan’s Hollow sponsored by: Cerridwen’s Cauldron; featuring: FATEwear; Dragon Magick Wares; L’Uomo; Spyralle; Mermaid Treasure & Boutique; FANTAVATAR & MOONSTRUCK; and with themed stores: Dreamscaped Designs; Sterling Artistry; [][]Trap[][]; [Gauze]; [ni.Ju]; Arx Loricatus; AZE Jewelry; Bliensen + MaiTai; Southpaw; yo bailo.

Fantasy Faire: to tarry in Evensong Woods

Posted on April 22, 2013March 28, 2023 by Inara Pey

I departed the fair, colourful city of Luminaria with a heavy heart; it was not an easy place to leave, filled with bright peoples and wonders as it was. But my quest demanded I must; time was passing and I knew I had far to go.

After a day’s travel I came across a vast woodland, tall trees with deep shadows standing like sentinels blocking my way. I knew not how broad it might be, nor how many leagues it may run on either side of my path; so while it seemed foreboding to my eyes, I dared not turn aside to try to find a way around it. Instead I decided to take the last of the day’s light and try to cross the forest as quickly as I could, and followed a rough path under the first outstretched boughs.

Beneath the trees snow still lay on the ground, as if spring had passed by without note, and I turned my collar against the chill which seemed to fill the air beneath the great trunks of these mighty trees.

“Wrap up warm, fair traveller, for the days beneath our homes are yet cool, and the nights colder still!” I stopped at the sound of the voice, fair and light, which seemed to float down to me from above, accompanied by gentle laughter. “What brings you to our home beneath the stars, and why do you hurry so beneath our trees?”

I remained paused, looking to find the source the source of the voice and the gentle laughter which followed it. As I did so, the rays of the sun broke through the green canopy above and I perceived houses and walkways high up in the boughs, some straight and wide, others slung like bridges between the trees – and there, to one side, a wooded stair leading high overhead, on upon which stood, fair and tall – elves!

“Come!” said one, extending his hand to me. “Night draws near, and as homely as we find the Evensong Woods, they are no place to be alone. Come join us if you will, and tarry among our homes amid the trees, for we have much to show you, and would hear what tales you have to tell of the wider world!”

And so it was, scarce a day from Lumenaria, I found myself once again amidst wonders, these high in the trees in the elven enclave of Yuale Nura, by day washed in the light of a warm sun and by night bathed in silver moonlight and lit by a hundred glowing crystals. And everywhere … everywhere they sound of music and laughter and the sweet voices of the fair folk, always lifted in greeting and welcome.

Region designed by: Searlait Nitschke.

Sponsored by Roawenwood; featuring: Boudoir; ~*Star Kindler Designs*~; Illusions; Mystique; Mindgardens Creations;ThatChick; and with themed stores: Swings Paradise Furnitures; Unique Obsession; Kotori; +Half-Deer+; {Lemon Tea}; An Lema; EagleHeart Designs; ~Sa-eela~; ~ Mystic Sky ~; .:EMO-tions:.

Total raised at the start of day 3: L$3,296,095 (approx: $13,184 USD).

Fantasy Faire: a visit to Lumenaria

Posted on April 21, 2013March 28, 2023 by Inara Pey

Luminaria, Fantasy Faire, 2013

Lumenaria. I’d often heard the name. A beacon of hope and light standing against the world’s ills; a place I’d longed to visit but which seemed forever out of reach. Just now I stand on the stone streets beneath a golden sun and warm skies, bathed in colour, light and life.

Tall walls provide safety to those within, who paint the roofs of their houses and stores with gay colours which match the rich blossoms and flowers which grow alongside the paths and within gardens. Water splashes from fountains, and everywhere is the sound of mirth and good humour.

Luminaria, Fantasy Faire, 2013

Even the names of the stores suggest life and the warmth of dreams wrapped with a hint of exotic mystery: Solarium, Oran, Garden of Dreams, The Library, KittyCat’s Creations, Elysium, Pywicket’s Myths, Bare Rose, and more. Around me roam wonderful creatures the likes of which I’ve never seen and which the locals call “Meeroos”, and small, industrious folk who refer to themselves as “Dwarfins”. Overhead flies a great dragon, magnificent wings flung wide in the warm airs, a great sky-ship slung beneath it, from which at times I hear sounds of music and delighted revelry.

Weary from my travels, I will rest awhile here. Perhaps I will climb the nearby tower soon, and ride another skyship to that great dragon and see what it is that so delights all who visit it on high …

Luminaria, Fantasy Faire, 2013

Region designed by: Kayle Matzerath

Sponsored by: Solarium; featuring: Dwarfins; Garden of Dreams; Kittycat’s Creations; ND/MD Skins & Shapes; Mythos; Pyewicket’s Myths; and with themed stores: Old World; Oran; *~ Dream Things ~*; Panda Express; Luas; Quixote’s Dream; ~The Library~; ::{Elysium}::; 22769; Bare Rose; Meeroos.

Total raised on day 1: L$1,960,572 (approx: $7,842 USD)

Fantasy faire: previewing a fabulous week

Posted on April 19, 2013March 28, 2023 by Inara Pey

Fantasy Faire 2013 gets underway on Saturday, 20th April 2013 in a week-long celebration of all things fantasy and fantasy role-play in Second Life and in direct support of Relay for Life of Second Life.

This year brings together another set of stunning regions created by some of SL’s top designers and packed full of lots of goodies from content creators right across the grid. And the builds themselves really are amazing to see – so even if you’re not into fantasy or fantasy RP yourself, I really do recommend that you find time to go along and have a look at the eight themed regions as photos and words simply do not do them justice.

Fairelands by Saiyge Lotus

You can start your visit at Fairelands, where you’ll find a lush woodland by Saiyge Lotus, complete with teleports within tree trunks to whisk you to any of the eight themed regions. When you want rest and respite from the rushing around the Faire, come back here to sit and rest and renew among the trees or in the tall grass or sitting at the water’s edge…

Here’s an overview of each of the regions, together with a list of stores within them and some pictures I hope will whet appetites. I’ll be looking at some of the regions themselves in more detail over the next few days.

Lotus Valley Dream by Marcus Inkpen and Sharni Azalee

“The spirit world touches the material plane in this garden of bonsai trees and waterfalls surrounding an ancient pagoda. With such mystical elegance everywhere you look, this is a place to still your mind and connect with the magic within.”

Sponsored by: The Looking Glass; featuring: Hoof It!; ezura Xue; Quest for the Golden Prim; FALCONROSE; Raven’s Heart; Demons & Angels; and with themed stores: SAKIDE; Pin Me Down; Caverna Obscura; Kouse’s Sanctum; Affinity Boutique; Ari’s Neko Retreat; NAMINOKE; 2Xtreme; Star Journey; Flecha Creations; TRU Textures.

Lumenaria by Kayle Matzerath

“A vast city with lots of colourful houses, shops and a huge castle where the main streets meet. A tribute to the sun and all the golden harmony it brings, the city of Lumenaria is a beacon of hope to any who seek refuge from the dark.”

Magnificat by Alia Baroque

“The Relay Royales kindly invite you to their summer palace and gardens for a week of diversions, plays, games and leisure to celebrate life and magnify your souls.”

Sponsored by: Fallen Gods Inc; featuring: Evie’s Closet; Lilith’s Den; Living the FantaSea; MacMoragh & Muse; House of Rfyre; Wasabi Pills; and with themed stores: Frippery; Balderdash; Ankle Biter; Yabusaka; Musa; Skinthesis; Sax Shepherd Designs; Decadent Courtesan; Heartistic; Gwen’s Hearth; Forest Feast.

Ravenshard by Mayah Parx

“Where beauty has lost its perfection to a collection of twisted shards reflecting the wondrously literalistic minds of Burton, Pratchett, and Dahl. The lands will be distinct. The shops anything but square, and some may even have feet! Be warned. It’s funky, it’s fun, and it’s anything but straight!”

Sponsored by: Epic Toy Factory; featuring: F*cking Ninjas; Epic; United InshCon; Bentham Manor; Fae Fantasy Creations; FuubutsuDou!; kisetsu; Simply Fae; and with themed stores: Lupoaica; Almost Wonderland; Grim Bros.; Stuff Xavian Made; Madpea Productions; .:CoLLisions:.; ~SWAN~; Feyline Fashions; [europa]

Titans Hollow by Elicio Ember

“The cliff city of Caras Calar dangles high above ground, suspended from the fickle rock formations. The Structures are made of a filigree of crystal, wood and metal, and hung with gigantic chains from the columnar cliffs giving the appearance from below of huge floating lanterns. The sunken valley over which the city hangs is forested with strange vegetation and irrigated from waterfalls plunging from the sheer cliffs. Legend has it a battle between ancient gods created this strange scenery.”

Sponsored by: Cerridwen’s Cauldron; featuring: FATEwear; Dragon Magick Wares; L’Uomo; Spyralle; Mermaid Treasure & Boutique; FANTAVATAR & MOONSTRUCK; and with themed stores: Dreamscaped Designs; Sterling Artistry; [][]Trap[][]; [Gauze]; [ni.Ju]; Arx Loricatus; AZE Jewelry; Bliensen + MaiTai; Southpaw; yo bailo.

Crimson Fields by Laufey Markstein

“The field of Oblivion will be built as an homage to Stephen King’s “Dark Tower” series, and will feature a central, gothic and ominous dark tower, in a wide open field of overgrown thorns and scarlet red roses. The store builds will hint at the long-gone remains of similar gothic structures, roof-less, with time-eroded stone walls entwined in overgrown rose thorns.”

Sponsored by TRIDENT; featuring: lassitude & ennui; [ContraptioN]; Satyrs Moon; FallnAngel Creations; meadowWorks; Unzipped; and with themed stores: The Muses; Vengeful Threads; Psst…Here Kitty, Kitty; Kishi Creations; ImpWerks; – NaLa –; MysticHope Design; TempT; The Elegant Goth; De La Soul.

The DragonSpire by Khyle Sion

“A barren land of stone and crystal, hiding its lavish secrets beneath the shell of the earth. The native Goblins, Drow, Dwarves and Nixies reside in the fruitful tunnels, lorded over by a Dragon and his horde. Veined with phosphorescent ores, freshwater streams and exotic fungi, these deep caverns hold remnants of a lost civilization.”

Sponsored by: The Arcanum; featuring:Dark Goddess Designs; Curious Kitties;Favourite Genes; Black Veil Outfitters;The Golden Thorn; ~Refined Wild~; and with themed stores: Niekra’s Dreams; Wilds of Organica; Tayren’s Fantasy Fashions; Sparkle Skye Designs; Elvenbreath; Dysfunctional Designs; *.:!Completely oBVious!:.*; Talevin’s Designs; Whatz; Analog Dog Hair.

Evensong Woods by Searlait Nitschke

“Resting in the treetops of is the elven enclave of Yuale Nura. Bathed in moonlight, the homes glow warm in the deep blues and purples of a winter’s night. A light dusting of snow gives the impression of undisturbed slumber, but perhaps all is not as quiet as first impressions suggest.”

	Myrdin planet M on A short personal note and…
	hectorC2 on A short personal note and…
	Susann DeCuir on A short personal note and…
	tboellst85bf1d0ef9 on A short personal note and…
	Vanity Bonetto on A short personal note and…

Tag: Fantasy Faire 2013