Common Questions
You Ask. We Answer.
Are those real swords?
Yes, kindof. We use real metal swords (and axes, spears, maces, etc.) but the edges are blunt and we do not strike with any sharp points. This allows us to get the visceral joy of steel ringing on steel and still be good friends afterward.
What is the minimum age to participate?
There is no minimum age for Archery or Arts and we often have children at our events although some of them are just there to hang out in a park. For safety, we do limit participation in combat. A combatant must be 12 to participate in shinai, 14 to start rapier, and 16 to participate in fully armored steel.
Isn't "Arts" a little broad?
Why yes, artistic endeavor in the Adrian Empire includes a vast range of activities including bardic presentation; woodwork; metal working; demonstrations of cooking and other skills; leathercraft; blackwork; and almost any skill that can be documented within our time period.
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Why isn't the crown wearing a crown?
Our current crown is about as fashion conscious as your average leech collector. In lieu of fancy metal headwear he has designated his hat, which has a hatpin conveniently colored and shaped to mirror the Heraldry of Esperance, as the "crown" as part of his dictatorial fiat.​
What are imperials and why is Esperance always threatening them?
The "Imperials" is a general reference to the Emperor, Empress, and their ministers who handle the broader scope of responsibilities across the country. They essentially mirror the local crown and ministers in matters across the organization as a whole. Esperance threatens the Imperials to ensure they feel wanted.
How I can have fun too?
Just show up. We are always open to welcoming new people to have fun with and one of our core tenets is education. Come to an event and we can show you what you've been missing. Joining as a member is simple and, frankly, cheap. ​
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Only rarely do we have anything resembling a closed event and that is usually due to limitations from the venue.