The podcast delves into two notable events in the realm of fantasy culture: Alfia, a medieval-themed festival that combines elements of music and cosplay, and Facts, a traditional comic convention. We, Noor & Laurent, provide a thorough exploration of the unique characteristics of Alfia, emphasizing its enchanting atmosphere, where attendees often don elaborate costumes reminiscent of a bygone era. We describe the event's enchanting location, typically held at a castle, which adds to the whimsical experience. With multiple stages hosting a variety of performances throughout the day, Alfia thrives on a sense of community and immersive engagement, allowing attendees to revel in both music and medieval aesthetics. Additionally, we share ourpersonal experiences, including the joy of being photographed by professionals amidst the scenic backdrop, ultimately conveying a sense of wonder and appreciation for this vibrant cultural gathering.

In juxtaposition, the discussion transitions to Facts, a comic convention that, while familiar and comfortable for the speakers, lacks the novelty and immersive quality that Alfia offers. We note that Facts showcases a more commercial vibe, with a focus on buying merchandise rather than fostering a community experience. We recount our past experiences at Facts, highlighting the excitement of meeting celebrities and exploring the geek market, yet we do express a sense of fatigue with the repetitive nature of the event. We convey a yearning for the novelty that Alfia provides, ultimately concluding that while both events cater to fantasy enthusiasts, Alfia stands out for its immersive and magical atmosphere.

The latter part of the podcast shifts focus to our literary pursuits, as we share our personal 'to be read' (TBR) lists, revealing a diverse array of fantasy novels. The conversation highlights the thematic elements present in the selected books, which often intertwine nautical adventures, mythical retellings, and character-driven narratives. We reflect on the significance of well-executed retellings, emphasizing the delicate balance between honoring the original stories while providing fresh perspectives. By discussing our reading experiences and preferences, we invite listeners to engage with fantasy literature in a thoughtful manner, encouraging exploration beyond the confines of traditional narratives. This segment not only showcases our enthusiasm for the genre but also serves as a call to action for listeners to delve into the rich tapestry of fantasy literature that awaits.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the whimsical world of Alfia, a festival that uniquely blends medieval fantasy and music, creating an immersive experience for attendees.
• We also share personal experiences from the recent Facts convention, highlighting the nostalgic comfort it provides despite its repetitive nature over the years.
• The discussion reveals the contrasting atmospheres of Alfia and Facts, emphasizing Alfia's enchanting setting in castle grounds versus the commercial ambiance of conventional Comic Cons.
• Listeners will gain insight into the burgeoning popularity of nautical fantasy literature, with several notable titles currently being discussed and recommended in this episode.
• Engagement in LARPing is explored, particularly through the lens of a recent mini LARP event at Facts, illustrating its appeal and accessibility to newcomers.
• The episode concludes with an exploration of anticipated fantasy literature, indicating a promising trend towards maritime themes and retellings in contemporary fantasy narratives.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Elfia
• Facts
• Game Master Worlds
• Hera von Dernat
• D and D
• Sarah J. Maas
• Liv Grossman
• Douglas Skelton
• H.M. Long
• RJ Barker
• Ivan Laycombe
• Alan Moore