OOC Introduction

Blackstone is a family of gamers who remain united across a variety of games. From pen and paper RPG’s, to Shooters and MMO’s, our primary goal is to have as much fun as possible. Starting in the year 2000, the group has slowly developed over time, gathering more core members but remaining rather small. The group has fluctuated over the years, having as many as eighty to one hundred and fifty active members in any particular title, but generally floating around 10 to 20 across the board.

We are separated into four categories.

Blackstone These players are part of the core group, and have participated in several titles with the Blackstone family. They are considered leadership, have equal authority, and are encouraged to carry Blackstone as their character surname.

Emerald Shields Experienced players who typically seek competitive roles. Some of these players make a point to analyze the finer details of a game to assist themselves and their allies in gaining a competitive edge.

Vassals Non-competitive players that are interested in trade, construction or other essential, supportive roles.

Friends and Allies Players with no commitment, who may want to hop in and out as they please without being expected to fill a particular role.

Blackstone within Elyria

In Elyria, Blackstone will be starting out as a Barony, led by Joseph Blackstone.

The current goal is to combine our resources and physical efforts into building up a mining business. We will use the income to fund development and research, while also building out the family’s house guard, the Emerald Shields. It is our desire to actively participate in any local conflicts, and eventually do an extensive amount of travel. All members are encouraged to pursue their preferred play style, and will receive help when it is needed.

Long term, we plan to become a self-sufficient settlement, with room for players of every trade.

”House Blackstone” Lore

Many members of the family are active roleplayers, and prefer games such as CoE so that they may develop their character’s personality and biography. Blackstone has existed as a family in several RPGs, originating in World of Warcraft’s Emerald Dream server(RP/PvP). In most cases, House Blackstone exists as a noble family who gained their fortune through the mining of Coal, hence their name. We typically play a young family, having only two or three generations behind us. In Elyria, my first character will be the grandson of the first person to carry the Blackstone surname.

Kendal, the first of his name, was one of many miners in a remote location. Over time, he gained repute for being a great fighter, and he was often tasked with warding off raiders and beasts of the forest. When the local Count discovered their collection of hamlets, he attempted to claim their land and tax the settlers into poverty. Kendal rebelled against him, starting with his famous quote, “You cannot demand respect.” Afterwards, the locals gave ownership of their land to Kendal, and asked him to protect them against any future taxation attempts. At that point he was given the family name of Blackstone, and began focusing all of his time on preparing for combat and warfare. He married a talented smith who learned to make weapons and armor from the ores in their land.

Together, Kendal and Rosalee Blackstone gave birth to a son, Spencer. As Spencer grew, he was taught to pursue knowledge and skill. He learned how to fight, and what to fight for. When he was old enough, he left his home in the pursuit of more knowledge. He travelled the world, entering more civilized lands and absorbing any information he could. He learned to read and write. He learned about different crops and farming equipment. He studied the buildings and the tools that were used across many cultures. He spent some time observing knights and soldiers, and even had the opportunity to train under an experienced weapon master. He brought this knowledge home, and the family flourished.

When Kendal passed away, Spencer marked his grave with a large, green stone which he had collected during his travels. Shortly thereafter, that stone grew roots, and over time it developed into a great tree, with leaves that sparkled like emeralds. Spencer made the Emerald Tree his family crest. After Kendal’s death, Spencer had the opportunity to change the way things worked among the local tribes. The area slowly developed into a civilized land, and he began the creation of the Emerald Shields, a small military force. He began capturing bandits instead of killing them, and using everything he learned to break them down and convert them into obedient fighters, making up the bulk of the Emerald Shields. The result was a vicious fighting force that had to be kept on a short leash.

Spencer also streamlined the mining process. He developed advanced tools and equipment, allowing faster and more efficient production. He also implemented safer methods for underground mining, allowing the miners travel deeper into the earth while taking fewer risks. This led to wealth for the Blackstone family, and in turn, better living conditions for the surrounding settlers.

Elyria begins with Spencer’s son, Joseph Blackstone. Raised to be wise and honorable, he strives to be like his father.

Blackstone Aesthetic

Our roleplay theme is a mix of medieval Scandinavia and England. Our characters tend to be larger in size, by both height and muscle mass, and speak with numerous profanities. Although we appear rough on the outside, we usually play the good guys. This is not required for all members.

Our family colors are black and green. Our sigil is the Emerald Tree. Our family motto is “You go, we go.” Because above all things, we value loyalty.

House Blackstone is not currently affiliated with any Kingdoms or Counts. We are now reviewing all NA-E options.

Those interested in joining should contact me on Discord.

Blackstone's Discord Server. (https://discord.gg/0107DVT6LIVGetsDO)