A Melee Competition for the Medieval Fae Festival

The Grand Melee of the Whispering Glades

Setting: A large, circular arena is set within a natural clearing in the Whispering Glades. Towering trees adorned with glowing moss encircle the space, casting an ethereal light upon the combatants. Spectators, a mix of humans and fae, gather along the perimeter, perched on moss-covered logs and woven platforms in the trees. Banners depicting various fae houses and medieval heraldry flutter in the gentle breeze.

The Rules:

• Combatants: The melee is open to all able-bodied individuals, both human and fae. Participants may enter as individuals or as part of a small team (no more than 5 members).
• Weapons and Armor:
  • Medieval-style weaponry is permitted, including swords, axes, maces, and polearms. All weapons must be blunted or padded to prevent serious injury.
  • Armor is optional but encouraged. Participants may wear medieval-style armor, such as chainmail or plate, or fae-crafted armor made from natural materials like hardened bark or woven leaves.
  • No magical enhancements on weapons or armor are allowed, except for those provided by the tournament organizers.
• Objective: The melee is a free-for-all. The last combatant (or team) standing is declared the victor.
• Rules of Engagement:
  • Combatants may engage any other combatant.
  • No striking below the belt or targeting the head with excessive force.
  • Grappling and disarming are permitted.
  • Once a combatant is disarmed or falls to the ground, they are considered defeated and must yield.
  • The Seelie and Unseelie Fae will be present to ensure that the rules are followed, and that no one is seriously harmed.
• Prizes:
  • Individual: The last individual standing will receive a prize of 50 gold pieces, a masterfully crafted weapon, and the title of “Champion of the Glades.”
  • Team: The last team standing will receive 100 gold pieces (split among the team members), a trophy, and the honor of being named “Victors of the Whispering Glades.”

Special Fae Elements:

• Enchanted Arena: The arena itself may be imbued with subtle fae magic, such as shifting terrain or temporary illusions, to add an element of unpredictability to the melee.
• Fae Referees: High-ranking members of the Seelie and Unseelie courts will act as referees, ensuring fair play and intervening if necessary. They may use minor illusions or enchantments to aid in their duties.
• Nature’s Blessing: Before the melee begins, a powerful fae may bestow a blessing upon the combatants, granting them temporary enhancements such as increased strength, agility, or endurance.
• Magical Challenges: The Fae may introduce magical challenges during the melee, such as gusts of wind, patches of slippery terrain, or illusions.