Of all the events during the year, the most prominent are the battles. Our battles consist of different scenarios which are acted out by the participants; but this isn't like a play where you know how people will react from a script. There is no was of telling how Gandar will react if you call him a coward, but I wouldn't suggest trying it to find out. ;-)
The weapons that we use are specially constructed to allow for maximum use,
with minimum damage to the victim. :-) They can be swung FULL
force at an opponent with little fear of injury. Head shots are
specifically FORBIDDEN as are several other actions that can be
potentially harmful. All of these rules are outlined in the "Manual of
Arms", and weapon construction is also detailed there. The core of
each weapon is made from PVC pipe. This is then covered with pipe insulation,
and several layers of foam. The exact arrangement depends on what type of
weapon you want to make. Each warrior is expected to have his
(or her) own weapon, but there are several Kingdom weapons available for
newcomers. Battles are held from September 'til late May, with practices
in the summer if enough students stick around for them.
Two other components of Dagorhir are Camping Trips and Feasts.
In early fall, a coronation feast is held for the new monarch. This
is an elaborate feast for which members dress in their finest.
Idealy, two camping trips are held each year, one in the fall after the
weather has cooled off, and the other in the spring when the weather
begins to get warm again. The camping trips allow for us to get away from
the hectic arena of college life, they also allow for properly
orchestrated night battles.
Everyone is encouraged to have some sort of period garb, whenever they
decide to participate. Garb need not be incredibly elaborate or
expensive. A simple tunic, a leather belt, and pair of sweat pants will
usually suffice.