Between Event Actions (BEAs) are an incredible tool to enrich your character’s story and to engage with the plot and our Game Managers (GMs) in meaningful ways. By using BEAs, you can take part in activities that wouldn't be feasible during a weekend event, such as conducting in-depth research, fortifying a city (building walls) or traveling to distant locations. These actions allow your character to develop and contribute to the ongoing storylines even between our gatherings.
Between Event Actions are opportunities for your character to take actions between events that require more time or are difficult to perform during a typical game weekend. Examples include:
Note: BEAs are reviewed outside of regular events, and the GMs do their best to address each one, but they are considered an "above and beyond" part of the game. Players should be aware that these actions are not guaranteed and should not feel disappointed if a response is not always provided.
When considering a BEA, make sure to include the following information to help our Plot Team address your request effectively:
Here are some examples of BEAs that would be a great addition to your character’s journey:
These examples not only provide actions that directly relate to previous events but also give insight into your character’s personal goals, allowing the Plot Team to weave these threads into future storylines.
To help clarify what not to do, here's an example of a bad BEA submission:
Why This Is a Bad Example:
Instead, consider breaking it down into more manageable, character-focused steps, such as researching the enemy camp’s defenses or seeking out a map of the area to prepare for a future event.
Using BEAs effectively can have many benefits:
Between Event Actions are a valuable way for you to get involved with the story outside of event weekends. Whether you're pursuing a personal goal, researching a plot element, or preparing for an upcoming threat, BEAs help your character grow and the overall story deepen. Be sure to think through your actions carefully, submit your form on time, and enjoy the opportunity to engage with the ongoing story of Veil of Ashes!
To Submit your Between Event Action, Click here!
Welcome to the world of LARPing (Live Action Roleplay)! Jumping into a new LARP can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also feel overwhelming at first. To help you get started on the right foot, here are fourteen essential tips that will guide you through your first adventures.
1. Read the Rules and Setting
Before you attend your first event, take time to familiarize yourself with the game's rulebook and setting. Knowing the rules will help you understand what actions are allowed and how to interact safely. It also makes a big difference in how well you can participate in the game. At Veil of Ashes, the sections I would suggest read first are listed below:
There are other sections that you should also review to figure out your character, but starting with the basics is realy important.
The setting is equally important, as it gives you insight into the world your character lives in, including cultural norms, significant events, and the types of characters you might meet. To get an understanding of our game world and perhapse get ideas for your potential backstory and motivations, take a look at the Getting Immersed in Our World section of the rulebook.
2. Start Simple with Your Character
For your first LARP, it’s a good idea to keep your character relatively simple. Choosing a character personality that’s easy for you to embody can help you get comfortable with roleplaying. Think about a backstory that is straightforward and leaves room for growth. Remember, your character doesn’t need to be a hero right away – you can add complexity as you gain experience. For additional information about creating your character’s back story take a look at our post “Writing a Character History”. When you have your history complete, you can submit it for review by clicking here.
3. Be Open to Roleplaying
Roleplaying is at the core of LARP, and it involves acting and interacting with others as if you are your character. It’s okay if you’re not perfect; even experienced players make mistakes. Stay in character as much as possible, react naturally, and immerse yourself in the story. The more you let go of self-consciousness, the more rewarding your experience will be.
4. Be Respectful
Respect is a key aspect of LARPing and we pride ourselves at Veil of Ashes on creating a safe environment for everyone. This means respecting others' boundaries, personal space, and comfort levels both in and out of character. LARP is a collaborative environment, and the more you support and respect your fellow players, the better the experience will be for everyone involved. Take some time and read the Introduction to the rulebook as it contains a lot of useful information about: Good Sportsmanship, Code of Conduct, Character vs Character Conflicts, Disengaging and Breaking Immersion. Remember, we're all here to have fun!
5. Communicate Out of Character When Needed
Sometimes, you might need to step out of character to clarify something or address an issue. As you have probably read in the Introduction section of the Veil of Ashes Rulebook, we have easy ways to indicate you’re speaking out of character. Don’t hesitate to use these if you’re uncomfortable, need a break, or need to check in with another player. Maintaining good communication ensures a safe and enjoyable game for all.
6. Engage with the Plot
Participating in the storyline is one of the most exciting parts of LARPing. Get involved in the activities, quests, and plot hooks offered by the game organizers. This will help you feel more connected to the story and give your character purpose. Engaging with the plot not only enhances your own experience but also contributes to the immersive world everyone is creating together. If you are unsure on what you should be doing, start by talking with another character (another player), and asking for advice. If you are still unsure, you can always go out of play and ask a Game Manager or the Plot team for advice. We are all more than willing to help you have a great time.
7. Dress for Comfort and Mobility
Costumes are a big part of what makes LARPing fun, but it’s important to dress for comfort as well. Choose clothing that fits your character but also allows you to move freely, especially if combat is involved. Think practically: you may be running, climbing, or spending long hours in costume, so comfort and safety should be a priority alongside looking the part. Most players of a LARP start with a trip to their local Thrift Store and picking up something that looks like it fits in a medieval or renaissance type setting. Don’t worry too much about your costuming for your first event.
8. Bring Essentials
While your costume and props are important, don’t forget essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. LARP events can be physically demanding, so staying hydrated and having some food on hand will keep your energy up. Having a few practical supplies, like sunscreen or bandages, will also ensure you stay comfortable throughout the event.
9. Make Allies
Forming alliances is a huge part of LARP, and it makes the experience more enjoyable. Don’t hesitate to approach other characters, introduce yourself, and find common goals. Allies can provide support, help you achieve your character’s objectives, and enrich your story. Plus, roleplaying is often more fun when you’re part of a group rather than going solo.
10. Ask Questions
If you’re unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask. Veteran players and game organizers are usually more than happy to help newcomers and explain anything you might find confusing. Whether it’s about the rules, the story, or how to handle an in-game situation, asking questions will help you get comfortable more quickly and make fewer mistakes.
11. Have an Exit Strategy for Your Character
Not everything goes as planned in LARP, and your character might find themselves in a tough spot. It’s helpful to have an exit strategy if things go wrong – whether it’s running away, negotiating for safety, or calling in a favor from an ally. Having a plan helps you keep your character in the game while also contributing to an exciting story when things get challenging.
12. Be Prepared for Emotional Engagement
LARP can bring out strong emotions because the storytelling and roleplay can be very immersive. It’s important to remember that these feelings belong to your character and not you personally. If you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to step back and remind yourself of the distinction. Emotional moments can be powerful, but it’s okay to take a break if you need it.
13. Don’t Worry About Winning
LARP is not about winning or losing – it’s about telling a great story and having fun with others. Instead of focusing on "winning," focus on creating memorable moments for yourself and those around you. Some of the best LARP experiences come from unexpected failures, character development, or dramatic story twists, rather than coming out on top.
14. Reflect After the Game
After the event is over, take time to reflect on what happened. What did you enjoy? What did your character learn or experience? Reflecting on these moments helps you grow as a player and can provide ideas for how your character might evolve. It also helps you appreciate the immersive experience you just had and prepare for future adventures.
LARP is about creativity, immersion, and collaboration. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to dive into your first Veil of Ashes event, make meaningful connections, and enjoy the incredible stories that unfold. Remember: relax, embrace your character, and most importantly, have fun!
A significant part of your character's personality can be shaped by their past before they enter the world of Veil of Ashes. Thinking deeply about your character' history will not only enrich your experience but also help you engage meaningfully with others in-game. Consider exploring some of the following aspects:
The possibilities are vast, and we encourage you to shape your character’s history as you envision it. Your character will hail from somewhere within our fantasy world, though it doesn't necessarily have to be the place you find yourself in now. However, to keep things grounded, we kindly ask that you avoid certain clichés, such as being the offspring of an all-powerful deity or being born into royalty. If you have questions about the appropriateness of any details, feel free to ask.
Other Things that you should consider:
When your character first enters the game, they will find themselves in an unfamiliar land. It might help to think about what they were doing right before they were brought here. This backstory is optional—your character could just as easily arrive with vague memories or none at all of their past life. It doesn't always have to be a dramatic event; it could be something as simple as going about an everyday activity like fishing or preparing a meal with loved ones.
Below is an example story that might inspire you when imagining your character’s journey prior to their arrival in this new world. Remember, this is just one possible scenario and not a standard to measure your own character’s history against:
Example Backstory:
Sir Liam swore an oath that he would rid the world of undeath before his demise or die trying. Today was meant to be that day.
“That damn lich,” he whispered to himself as he looked at the horde before him. The last of his order was succumbing to the onslaught one by one. He knew the odds were stacked against them before the battle even started, but he knew that the belief of his order, and doing what was righteous, would see them through the impossible. Only now did he realize his folly.
“Was I wrong, or am I just a fool?”
As his daughter, the child who carried the very best of him began to rise from the ground with her skin desiccated and rotting, he choked back his tears as anger swelled from deep within his soul. He had lost all his children this day, and before him stood the testament of his failure.
The General stood, knowing that his time would soon come to an end. They were the last bastion of hope, the last ones capable of stopping the coming storm. All his training, all of his preparation, all of it... for nothing. He then looked to his remaining knights for strength but only found the cruel irony that his last act upon this world would be leading them to their demise.
As Sir Liam drew his sword, Silverlight, from its sheath the blade emanated a radiant light of which he had never seen before. Was this one last gift? Would this turn the tide of battle?
His entire order of Knights had been decimated and the undead hordes were closing in around him. Knowing that his time was at an end, Sir Liam fell to one knee. Grasping the hilt of his sword tightly, he thrust Silverlight hard into the ground. “With the power of Silverlight, I consecrate this ground and destroy these abominations before me!” screamed Sir Liam in a final move of desperation. As he finished, light exploded from his body. The first wave of undead, maybe thirty or more, were struck by a pulse of energy and instantly turned to ash... but it wasn’t enough.
As the vile army closed around him once more, he looked to his sword… The light from Silverlight was completely extinguished now.
For his final act, he raised his sword, ready to charge toward the fate that awaited him. As he readied himself, the blade of Silverlight once again came to life. Instead of radiating the light of grace as before, the blade began to emit a thick grey mist that suffocated the air around him. Sir Liam looked to his sword, which had carried the light of his order for centuries.
“Have I been betrayed?”
Confused and disoriented, he attempted to break through the veil that had begun to surround him. However, the harder he pressed forward the more he found himself trapped within.
The dense grey fog began to surround him, choking the life from him. His vision became dark. His strength began to fail him, and he slowly slipped into unconsciousness.
When you are ready, please feel free to submit your character history by clicking here.
