Keeper of the Books ★ NBRC ★’s
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(group member since May 19, 2018)
Keeper of the Books ★ NBRC ★’s
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from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.
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Rare Monsters - Only one of each of these monsters exist in the world. Killing them will be challenging but will reap great rewards.
The Evil Godmother
60 attack, 250 health

The Evil Godmother wasn’t always evil—just notoriously troublesome at royal gatherings. But after being snubbed as the baby princess’s godparent, she cast a wicked curse in a fit of spite. Once the princess learns to speak—she’s just an infant for now, after all—she will only be able to communicate using the book titles. Greetings will become Crime and Punishment, royal decrees might take an unfortunate turn with Everyone Poops, and diplomatic meetings? A disaster waiting to happen. Chaos erupted in the court at the revelation, and so the search began for a hero brave enough to defeat the wicked hag and lift the curse before the princess’s first words caused a scandal.
The Evil Godmother is a mighty opponent. Every turn she causes significant damage with her surpricingly forceful kick.
In addition, every other turn (starting with the first), she activates her special move: Cursed Wish—an enchantment that forces you to discard the newest book in your tote, marching backward through your reading history. It happens before your or your pets' attack, and she's so quick with her wand that even Stoneskin Potions can't block it. (They’ll still shield you from damage, but your books? Poof!) She’s picky, though—books under 50 pages, bought from other heroes, or duplicated are beneath her notice—she'll skip them to steal the first next elligible read of yours. She sorts through your reading list from most recent to oldest, unless the books were already submitted as part of a completed quest. Those are magically immune. But anything still sitting in your non-submitted quests is fair game, disappearing forever as if never read. If your tote is empty or doesn't hold enough books for the entirety of your fight? She rolls her eyes and refuses to fight you.
Victory isn’t about brute strength. To defeat her, you must reduce her health to exactly 1 HP. Overshoot it, and she vanishes in a puff of glitter, only to return next turn 10 HP stronger than before your ill-fated last attack. Undershoot it, and she’ll mock you mercilessly. Once weakened, the final blow in its separate turn must come in the form of a personal development book hurled at her. Titles like How to Stop Being Petty in 10 Easy Steps or The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Curse are especially effective. This humiliates her into breaking her wand, lifting the princess’s curse, and retreating to a quieter life of reading first editions in solitude.
Pro Tip: You can curb her attack power before the fight begins by throwing a romance novel at her. Love, happiness, and happily-ever-afters sap her strength, halving her base attack to 30 AP for the entire battle. She can’t stand the mushy stuff.
Reminder: Just a heads-up—your pets (cat, horse, dog, and falcon) always leap into action when you do. You can’t command them to hold back or skip a turn… at least not yet. When you attack, they attack! A special potion to help with pet control is in the works and will be introduced in a future update. Keep an eye on the Notice Board for details!
Reward: 35 XP, 3 Minor Poison Potions, 1 Shield Potion, 20 Gold and 1 Broken Magik Wand.
Quests Starting 6/22/25
Fred’s Fiery Fiasco
Fred the Magician, in a dazzling display of poor judgement and overconfidence, has once again set part of the castle ablaze—this time incinerating half his beginner spell scroll collection. It might have been avoidable had he not stored them next to a mountain of Phoenix Feathers and a barrel clearly marked “Definitely Not Flammable (Probably).”
To help salvage the situation—and prevent Fred from “testing fireproofing spells” on the castle drapes—you’ve been asked to assist in reconstructing the lost scrolls. The information can still be found, scattered across spellcasting manuals, old wizard memoirs, and books teeming with magical mayhem. Restoring the scrolls will aid future adventurers… and buy time while someone discreetly relocates Fred’s half-built fire golem to somewhere with fewer curtains.
Search for the lost knowledge in:
1. Spellcasting manuals: Read a book where a main character chants, sings, or recites a poem.
2. Wizard memoirs: Read a memoir or biography of a “performer” — actor, singer, comedian, magician, dancer, etc.
3. Books Infused by Magic: Read three books that have a Main Page Genre of Fantasy, Magic, or Magical Realism.
Success!
The scrolls have been restored, just in time for the next class of bright-eyed adventurers. Fred is tremendously grateful—though he’s now muttering something about “lightning-proof ink.” Your Reward: 1 XP + 5 Ember Shards.
The Curse of the Crystal
A dreadful calamity has befallen the Novel Kingdom! The villainous wizard Forever Everly, a man whose primary motivation appears to be an unhealthy surplus of spite and pointy hats, has cursed our beloved Queen Skye. In a particularly petty act of magical mischief, he has stripped her of her most prized possession: her memory of every book she has ever read. A queen of a kingdom built on stories, suddenly bereft of her literary treasures. It’s not just a catastrophe—it’s a travesty with footnotes, appendices, and a badly scrawled index. Naturally, Everly has scuttled off to his hideout atop Mount Sapientia, a brooding and windswept peak where ominous things happen on a strictly hourly schedule. There, guarded by foul monsters and an unusually high number of ominous doorways, lies the Crystal of Knowledge—the only artifact capable of undoing the queen’s bibliographic amnesia.
To claim the Crystal of Knowledge and restore Queen Skye, you must complete the following steps:
1. Defeat the Rare Monsters of the Land - Before you may approach the foot of Mount Sapientia, you must rid the kingdom of the rare monsters that terrorize its people. Only then will the path to the mountain be clear.
• Kill all the rare monsters that are roaming around the realm at the time the quest is published (6/22/25), that includes The Evil Godmother.
2. Ascend Mount Sapientia - The climb to the summit is long and arduous, requiring not only physical endurance but the wisdom found in weighty tomes. With each book, you ascend higher, braving the thin air and the dangers of the mountain trail.
• Read 5 books of 400+ pages each.
3. Breach the Lair of Forever Everly - At the peak of the mountain lies the wizard's lair, fortified by ancient wards of dark magic. Breaking through requires immense strength of mind and spirit.
• Read 5 books of 500+ pages each. These mighty tomes will grant you the knowledge needed to shatter the barriers and enter the lair.
4. Defeat the Villainous Wizard - Within his lair, the foul wizard awaits, protected by his mastery of arcane spells. To best him in battle, you must arm yourself with the greatest of literary weapons.
• Read 5 books of 800+ pages each. Every page strengthens your resolve and hones your power, until you can strike the final blow and end his tyranny.
5. Claim the Crystal of Knowledge - Though the wizard is vanquished, your greatest challenge remains: seizing the Crystal of Knowledge itself. The artifact is guarded by unbreakable wards that can only be undone by the mightiest wisdom.
• Read 5 books of 1,000+ pages each. Only these monumental works will grant you the insight to unlock the Crystal's power.
6. Restore Queen Skye - With the Crystal of Knowledge in hand, you must undertake one final act of devotion to cure your queen. To restore her memory and her love of books, you must offer a profound collection of stories from a single mind.
• Read 5 different standalone books by the same author—all books must be different titles, no series allowed (strictly standalone books). These tales will heal her spirit and awaken her love for literature once more.
Triumph is sweet—sweeter than a freshly baked pie stolen from a windowsill. Once Queen Skye is restored to her regal glory, her gratitude is as boundless as the kingdom’s library stacks. As she surveys her realm with clear eyes once more, her gaze falls upon the Crystal of Knowledge, still glowing faintly from your heroic deeds. With a radiant smile (and a flair for the dramatic), she presents it to you, noble knight, as a token of her appreciation and a testament to your courage.
Reward: The Crystal of Knowledge - Permanently adds +1 AP to both your sword and magic staff. Permanently adds +1 HP to your maximum health.

Kindlecorn Soup for the Spiritually Knackered
Battling monsters is all well and good, of course, but even the bravest adventurers eventually run out of sheer spite and mediocre swordplay. After your latest clash with the forces of unpleasantness, you glance at your party and realize they look like overcooked noodles—wobbly, pale, and only upright thanks to strategic leaning.
This simply won’t do. So you drag the lot of them to Dr. Cottage, eccentric herbalist, field surgeon, and soup theorist. He hops closer, using his trusty cane, peers at your companions, sniffs loudly, and mutters, “Spiritually knackered. Only one thing for it. You’re cooking Kindlecorn Soup.”
Of course, he won’t just give you the recipe. That would be far too easy. “It’s a sacred broth,” he insists, “reserved for moments of true crisis… and mild social inconvenience.”
Time to prove yourself worthy of soup.
You must have a Kitchen at least LVL 1 to begin.
Part 1: Equip Your Kitchen (Non-repeatable)
To even attempt Dr. Cottage’s restorative cuisine, you need proper tools. He refuses to let his sacred soup touch anything “chipped, cursed, or emotionally fragile.”
• Spell out CAULDRON using standard spell-it-out rules.
• Pay 15 gold to the local blacksmith for a soup-approved cauldron.
Reward: 1 Cauldron, 4 XP
Part 2: Earn Dr. Cottage’s Trust (Non-repeatable)
“The soup isn’t just a meal,” he says, clutching his satchel of suspicious herbs. “It’s a commitment. A lifestyle. A legally binding culinary oath.”
• Cook 1 Drop Bear Steak to prove your culinary competence. (You must complete the Drop Bear Feast quest first if you haven't already.)
• Read a book with a pen, pencil, or quill on the cover to show you’re ready to copy down the recipe into your personal grimoire.
• Bribe—ahem, supply—Dr. Cottage with 3 Minor Heal Potions. (You’re not proud to encourage his tonic addiction, but desperate times call for mildly unethical measures.)
Reward: Kindlecorn Strengthening Soup Recipe, 4 XP
Kindlecorn Strengthening Soup Recipe:
- 10 Kindlecorn Meats
- 5 Salt
- 5 Herbs
- 3 Carrots
- 3 Peas
- 1 Book with the word "weed" in the text
- 1 Spicy book (steamy, fiery, or just full of drama)
- 1 Book by an author whose first or last name starts with W (for water)
Part 3: Cook the Soup (Repeatable)
!!! Only super fresh books can be used to cook the soup. A super fresh book is one read within the month prior to completing Part 3 of the quest. !!!
With the recipe now (somewhat legibly) transcribed into your book, it’s time to cook.
• You must have a cauldron and the recipe.
• Gather 5 Tree Branches to fuel the fire.
• Gather 5 Phoenix Feathers to ignite the fire with a flourish.
• Follow Dr Cottage's recipe and cook 1 cauldron of his delicious soup for your mercenaries.
Reward: 1 Cauldron of Kindlecorn Soup – Doubles your hired mercenary’s strength for 1 battle.
(Note: Radagast, a staunch vegetarian and soup snob, will politely decline your meaty masterpiece.)
Important Notes:
• To cook the soup, you must use only superfresh ingredients—that is, books read within the past month. For example, if you're making the soup on July 15th, only books finished on or after June 15th will count.
• You can only cook 1 Kindlecorn Soup per calendar month.
• The soup spoils 30 days after being cooked.
• The Magical Pumpkin cannot duplicate Kindlecorn Soup.
• Curious about mercenaries who benefit from soup boosts? Visit the Ye Olde FAQ.
Threads of the Rainbow Tapestry
The Royal Tapestry Room is in a bit of a cheerful mess. Spools of thread are scattered everywhere, magical bobbins are tangling themselves into knots, and someone (probably a sprite) left jam on the edge of the warp loom.
“It’s supposed to tell everyone’s story,” says Pip, the youngest weaving apprentice, peering at a section of the cloth. “But we noticed… well, some colors are missing.”
They hold up a bundle of shimmering rainbow thread. “Would you help us stitch in the ones we forgot? We need stories full of love, discovery, pride, adventure, and joy—especially the kind that’s been left off the page for far too long.”
And just like that, you’ve joined the Weaver’s Circle.
To weave in the colors of rainbow into the Royal Tapestry:
• Read 5 books featuring an LGBTQ+ main character.
These characters should be central to the narrative—whether they’re leading epic battles, falling in love, solving mysteries, or simply finding themselves. All genres welcome.
• Read 3 books written by LGBTQ+ authors.
These books may feature queer themes—or not. Let the author’s voice be part of the tapestry, even if their own story stays between the lines.
• At the Local Tavern, share the title of one book that moved you and why. Was it joyous? Tender? Fierce? Let your fellow adventurers know why it belongs in the weave.
Pip rewards your efforts with 10 XP + 1 Potion Token.

A quick reminder: this is your last month to use any books read before 2025—they’ll expire on 7/1/25, so turn as many quests using these old books in June as you can.
And one more thing—today’s your final chance to congratulate Queen Skye on the arrival of her daughter, the radiant Princess Lyra. If you missed the royal birth announcement but still want the well-wisher’s reward, be sure to post your congratulations before midnight!

A Royal Flush
Queen Skye had many concerns—border disputes, economic stability, the occasional dragon—but few things troubled her more than the stench permeating the kingdom’s streets. The Novel Kingdom was grand and glorious, but it had one fatal flaw: an absolute disaster of a sanitation system. The streets reeked, the rivers ran suspiciously brown, and the castle’s moat had gained a rather unsettling reputation (the less said about the glowing green sludge, the better).
Some said this was simply the way of things. Others, usually after an unfortunate slip in something unmentionable, insisted that something must be done. Queen Skye, being a forward-thinking ruler (and also quite tired of holding her breath while walking through the city), declared that you should be the one to fix the mess.
Thus begins your most noble and revolting quest yet!
The Steps to Sanitation:
1. Prepare yourself – No hero should enter this "battle" unaware of what awaits them.
Spell out the word STENCH using standard spell-it-out rules.
2. Brave the Depths – The kingdom’s sewers await. Abandon hope, all ye who sniff.
Read a book where the main character must navigate an underground location.
3. The Rat King’s Dominion – The sewers have a ruler of their own, and he’s not pleased to see you.
Read a book featuring a crime lord (or a mafia boss) to help drive the Rat King out of his smelly domain.
4. The Source of the Problem – Ah, the blockage. A horrifying combination of waste, lost treasures, and things best left unmentioned.
Read a book where a treasure is discovered (hopefully, it's worth the smell).
5. Clear the Pipes – With heroic determination (and probably a very long stick), you set things right.
Read a book with a shovel, a bucket or a spoon on the cover.
6. A Cleaner Kingdom (Mostly) – The filth is flowing freely again! Er... to the river. That’s future-you’s problem.
Read a book that contains the word “ecology” in the text.
Success! While you haven't solved all of the kingdom’s sanitation problems, you've tackled the worst of them—the blocked sewers. The noblemen still grumble about stepping in dung on the streets, but honestly, you're not a magician. Let everyone clean up after their own pets.
Queen Skye, now able to walk through her city without pinching her royal nose shut, bestows upon you a well-earned reward.
Your Reward for Services Rendered:
15 XP + 3 Minor Poison Potions (because let’s be real, you definitely came across some nasty concoctions down there).
Now go forth, brave adventurer, and may your nose recover swiftly!
Twice Upon a Title
As you wander through the bustling streets of the Novel Kingdom, you stumble upon a peculiar little shop. Its sign reads: “Twice Upon a Title – Where Stories Meet Their Match.” Intrigued, you step inside, only to find shelves brimming with books that seem eerily similar. A cheerful gnome with glasses perched on the tip of his nose pops up from behind the counter.
“Ah, a fellow book lover!” he exclaims. “Welcome to my humble shop of duplicates, doppelgängers, and downright strange coincidences. I specialize in books that share the exact same title but couldn’t be more different in story, genre, or tone. Fascinating, isn’t it? Two tales, one name! I call it... book twinning!”
“Care to join me in celebrating the beauty of title twins? Find pairs of books with the same title, read them both, and marvel at how wildly different they can be—or how surprisingly similar! Complete my challenge, and I’ll reward you with something truly unique.”
• Read 3 pairs of books that share the same title. (Example: The Gift by James Patterson and The Gift by Cecelia Ahern). Twins must be written by different authors.
• Report your twin books titles in the Local Tavern.
• Read a book where twins are the main characters.
• Read a book where a character sells something or works in a shop.
For completing this quest, you’ll receive 10 XP and one of Sir Bargainbeak’s Lucky Feathers. How the gnome got his hands on it is a mystery—one you decide not to investigate. It’s probably better that way. (Sir Bargainbeak’s Lucky Feather grants you a 50% discount on 1 item purchase from Jack’s Store.)
Note: If a book has a subtitle, you may ignore it. For example, Great Expectations and Great Expectations: a national US Bestseller count as the same title.
Alchemy That! Part II: The Spectral Brew
Bill the Alchemist greets you with a suspiciously enthusiastic grin as you return to his laboratory. “You’re back! Fantastic! I’ve been working on something revolutionary—something that will change the way we deal with monsters forever! Imagine bringing them back to life, but, uh… more dangerous. I call it The Reanimation Potion! Just think of the rewards! The glory! The academic papers! All I need now are a few… minor… ingredients.”
You eye the cluttered lab nervously, noting the bubbling cauldron that seems to be emitting a faint scream. “Let me guess,” you mutter, “I’m collecting the ingredients?”
“Oh, of course, dear hero. But I assure you, this one will work perfectly. No side effects. Probably.”
Pre-requisite: You must complete Alchemy That! quest before attempting Part II (if you haven't already).
The Alchemist is asking for fresh ingredients as he brews the potion.
!!!Only fresh books can be used for this quest, i.e. read after 6/1/25!!!
1. The Essence of Past Battles
“First, we’ll need the essence of a worthy adversary. Read a book featuring a duel, battle, or fight scene—it must really make you feel the adrenaline rising.”
(“Perfect! The potion's starting to look dangerous now.”)
2. Ghostly Whispers
“Next, I need something spooky—a whisper from beyond the grave, if you will. Read a book with a ghost, spirit, or other spectral being in it. And no, that romance novel with the ‘hauntingly handsome hero’ doesn’t count.”
(“Ah, now it’s bubbling! A good sign!”)
3. Shadowed Memories
“This step requires an emotional touch. We need the memory of loss. Read a book where a character mourns, grieves, or faces some kind of profound personal loss. The potion feeds on sadness, you see. For, uh, scientific reasons.”
(“Excellent work! The potion’s gone black. That’s totally normal, right?”)
4. The Spark of Life
“Now, we need something bright—a spark to reanimate the spirit. Find and read a book with lightning, storms, or electricity in its pages. Kudos if someone yells ‘It’s alive!’ but that’s optional.”
(“Aha! It’s glowing now! …Wait, is it supposed to move?”)
5. An Unwilling Sacrifice
“Lastly, we need… oh, you’re going to love this one! We need a book that’s been neglected. You know, the one collecting dust on your physical or virtual bookshelf for the minimum of 3 years. Sacrifice it to the cause by actually reading it.”
(“Brilliant! The potion is complete! And it only singed my eyebrows a little.”)
You hand over the final ingredient, and the Alchemist triumphantly raises the potion into the air. It glows ominously, and you feel an unsettling chill in the room.
“Behold! The Re-animation Potion is ready! Soon, every rare monster in the Novel Kingdom will have a ghostly counterpart—and I’ll be rich! Uh, I mean… science will thrive!”
He sends you off with a sample to present to Jack’s Store, where the potion is immediately stocked for purchase (at a very steep price). As thanks for your efforts, Jack tosses you a free sample.
Reward: 1 Re-animation Potion. Moreover, the Potion is now "unlocked" for purchase - it means you can buy it at Jack's Store if you can afford it. Mind that as a highly advanced potion it cannot be duplicated by the Magical Pumpkin.
Re-animation potion
- Resurrects a defeated rare monster (including rare magical ones) as a ghostly version of its former self. Works only on monsters you originally defeated longer than a year ago. This ghost is far more dangerous than the original, with both its attack power and health doubled.
Upon defeating the ghost, you receive the same amount of XP and regular loot (such as potions, potion tokens, mercenary coupons, and gold) as you would for slaying the original creature. Any monster-specific items (such as gems, orbs, or body parts) will appear as the "shadow" of the original, and can be used only once before they dissipate permanently (e.g., the Shadow of the Orb of Fire grants +3 AP to your magic staff for a single battle).
Each rare monster can be reanimated only once, and the process does not work on Halloween Monsters, other Event Monsters, and zombies, as they’ve already been reanimated once before. The Rare and the Rare Magical Monsters eligible for reanimation will be revealed in waves (stay tuned for announcements in the Notice Board thread). You must defeat all the monsters in one wave before you can start reanimating those from the next. Detailed stats and rewards for each Ghost of [Monster] can be found in the Ye Olde FAQ thread.
Price: 50 gold. This highly specialized item cannot be duplicated by the Magical Pumpkin or exchanged for a Potion Token—Jack insists on cold, hard cash only. (must be unlocked through Alchemy That! Part II: The Spectral Brew quest)
Jack's Store June Update Starting 6/1/25
• Feeling a little light in the coin pouch? Jack might be your answer. If you’ve got valuable books gathering dust, stop by Jack's Classifieds—he’s always on the lookout for specific treasures and might just pay handsomely for yours. (view spoiler)
• New in stock: Jack is now offering a Re-animation Potion, a rare and luxurious item priced at 50 Gold. Only the bold (and those who unlocked it through Alchemy That! Part II: The Spectral Brew quest) need apply. (view spoiler)

In recognition of the fact that the kingdom is in a perilous state with all the new monsters, she is planning to pair experienced adventurers with the newcomers to help them find their way around the kingdom while they settle in.
How to take part
Post below saying whether you are a newcomer to the kingdom or an experienced hero. We will pair you up to complete the tasks together. Both of you will receive the same rewards from completions.
Tasks
1. Say hello in the buddy thread set up for you
2. Introduce yourself in the Tavern (the experienced player does not need to do this again!)
3. Newcomer reaches level 2 experience
4. Newcomer levels up a weapon
5. Newcomer levels up both weapons
6. Newcomer defeats their first monster
7. Together spell out one of NOVEL, ROLE, PLAY, GAME using standard spell out rules
8. Visit the melting pot and suggest a quest idea that you have worked on together
9. The experienced player gives a gift to the newcomer to help with a quest (e.g. potion/egg/magic item)
10. Both partners read a book that involves a teacher or student, or that has a link to a video game (i.e. Ready Player One or The Last Wish). It does not have to be the same book. The mentor can also read a book with the letters AS in the title.
Rewards
These are additive (i.e when you complete hard, in total you will have 23 XP, 10 gold and a major heal potion).
Tutorial: Complete 2 tasks for 2XP
Easy: Complete 4 tasks for 4XP
Intermediate: Complete 7 tasks for 7XP and 10 gold
Hard: Complete 10 tasks for 10 XP and a major heal potion

New spell, May Classifieds and one Royal Announcement! ;-)

!!!Announcing Her Royal Whimsy, Princess Lyra Fable Elspeth!!!
Born on the 1st of May beneath a sky laced with shooting stars, Princess Lyra Fable Elspeth made her entrance with a cry so mighty it dislodged three hats and a wig from the royal midwives. Daughter of Queen Skye (long may her lemon tarts reign), young Lyra is clearly no ordinary heir—more spark than sprout, and already rewriting the lullaby script.
The Kingdom rejoices at this new chapter—bright-eyed, curious, and possibly already plotting her first grand escape from nap time.
In celebration, the joyfully exhausted Queen has declared that every well-wisher shall receive one Easter Bunny Egg. Easter has come and gone, and frankly, the leftover eggs were becoming a bit of a tripping hazard near the throne.
To claim your egg, simply visit the Local Tavern thread and leave a congratulatory message for our newest royal spark, Princess Lyra Fable Elspeth, before the end of May (2025).
Note: The Easter Bunny Egg is a magical treat that restores up to 15 HP. It can be eaten in portions and remains fresh for one month after the first bite. Cannot be duplicated by the Magical Pumpkin.
Jack's Classifieds May Update Starting 5/4/25
• Low on funds? If you own valuable books, Jack might be your solution. Visit Jack's Classifieds to see if your treasures match what he’s after!
Jack's Classifieds
Spell Update Starting 5/4/25
Fire spells
Inferno
Inferno is a devastating fire spell that unleashes the relentless fury of flame. By weaving together the smoldering strength of an Ember Shard, the volatile ignition of Phoenix Feathers, and the sheer destructive force of a cloud of burning splinters, the caster summons a towering blaze that engulfs all in its path, reducing even the strongest defenses to nothing but ash.
Fire magic like Inferno proves especially potent against earth-based creatures, honoring the ancient truth that not even stone or soil can endure the ravages of fire.
Fred the Magician, feeling both daring and (he hopes) fireproof, has lined up three clay golems for you to practice on. If your flames succeed in reducing them to mere piles of scorched pottery, Fred will declare you a true master of Inferno—assuming he doesn’t sprint off to fetch a bucket of water first.
Inferno – Base Attack 15.
Casting Materials: 1 Ember Shard, 1 Tree Branch, 3 Phoenix Feathers.
• Clay Golem – The unyielding test target, but not fireproof. (Population: 3)
Attack 0, HP 15.
Reward: 2 experience.

Yeah, so many book titles including names.
And great job, y'all, with the variety of names. I believe that Sarah is right with no repeats so far.

three new quests launching on 5/1/25 are now live!
You can find all the details in the Notice Board thread here: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

The Theatre of War: A Play in Too Many Acts
Queen Skye, ever the sensible ruler, preferred her kingdom to be a place of peace, prosperity, and only the occasional riot when the bakery ran out of pastries. Sadly, the rest of the world seemed committed to the idea that war was just diplomacy with extra bloodshed. Beyond her borders, armies marched, kingdoms clashed, and rulers—some wise, some profoundly not—kept flinging their soldiers into battles over territory, grudges, and the occasional royal insult involving someone’s choice of headwear.
But war, as Queen Skye knew, was not just a thing of generals and kings. It was a storm that swept through villages and cities, shattering lives and reshaping history. If her kingdom was to remain at peace, her people had to understand war—not just its battles, but its causes, its costs, and the scars it leaves behind. Your quest is to uncover the tales of war and share your findings so that others may also learn. For if enough people understand war, perhaps fewer will choose to wage it.
So, grab your books, sharpen your wits, and embark upon this noble quest. After all, history has a habit of repeating itself… unless, of course, someone stops it.
1. The Fires of the Present – War is not just a relic of history; it continues to shape the world today.
• Read two books by authors from or set in countries or territories that have experienced war in the 21st century (e.g., Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Chechnya (Russia), Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia). NATO countries are excluded from this task.
2. The Scars of Civil War – Some wars are fought between nations, but others tear apart a country from within.
• Read a book by an author from or set in a country that has recently endured the devastation of civil war (e.g., Myanmar, Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Syria, Yemen, Nigeria, Libya). NATO countries are excluded from this task. Recently means from 1990s till now.
3. Echoes of the 20th Century – The last century was marked by conflicts that reshaped the world in fire and steel.
• Read two books about or set during a 20th-century war or civil war, where the conflict plays a major role in the story.
4. Battles of the Past – History is filled with wars that shaped civilizations, empires, and entire continents.
• Read three books about or set during different major wars or civil wars from before the 20th century, where the conflict is a central theme.
5. War Beyond the Stars and Realms – Even in worlds of magic and distant galaxies, war is a force that shapes destinies.
• Read two fantasy or science fiction books set during a war, where the conflict is a major part of the story.
6. Chronicle Your Knowledge – Queen Skye values the lessons you have learned.
• Share your reading list in the Local Tavern thread (mark the setting/author's nationality for tasks 1 and 2, and the conflict for tasks 3, 4 and 5) so that others may learn from your wisdom.
For completing this quest, you earn 12 XP and 3 Shield Potions.
The Trials of a Royal Godparent
Huzzah! Queen Skye has given birth to a beautiful baby princess, and in a twist of royal fate (or perhaps an error in the guest list), you have been chosen as the royal godparent. But there's one small catch: before you're officially knighted into this role, you must pass the "Godparent's Reading Trials" to prove your worthiness. After all, a proper godparent must be well-read and ready to inspire the princess with tales of adventure and wisdom!
Your Tasks:
1. Read a book where the protagonist has a unique and memorable name. Make a note of why it stands out—it might make the princess’ nickname list!
2. Read a book with one of these words in the title: child, baby, prince or princess. Every princess needs companions for tea parties and hide-and-seek.
3. Read a book with characters navigating social rules or (royal) protocols. Jot down one rule for the princess—like how not to cause an uproar during a state banquet.
4. Read a book featuring a magical, mythical, or wise mentor figure. Let’s face it—you’re going to need tips.
5. Read a book with a gift on the cover—wrapping paper, bow and all. Find inspiration for the perfect naming ceremony present.
6. Read a fairy tale or a fairy tale retelling. Queen Skye insists that all proper godparents believe in happy endings.
Complete all six tasks to earn the title of Super Duper Godparent, along with 6 XP, 3 Major Heal Potions, and the everlasting gratitude of the Novel Kingdom!
May the Fourth Be With You (Repeatable)
Queen Skye has uncovered a cache of ancient tomes chronicling tales of distant galaxies, fearless rebels, sinister empires, and the timeless struggle between the light and dark sides of the Force. Stirred by the valor of Jedi, the cunning of Sith Lords, and the political tensions rippling through the stars, she has declared this May a celebration of Star Wars - through the power of storytelling.
Now, the time has come for you to choose your path. Will you walk the noble way of the Jedi, seeking peace, wisdom, and balance? Or will you embrace the path of the Sith, driven by ambition, power, and passion?
Before you decide, you may consult one of these light-hearted quizes to discover which side of the Force your allegiance lies:
[Buzzfeed quiz: https://www.buzzfeed.com/eheman/are-y...] or [Google Forms quiz: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA... ]
Whether you raise a lightsaber or a library card, your journey begins now. The galaxy awaits - one chapter at a time.
Follow the tasks aligned with the path you’ve chosen (Jedi or Sith).
!!!!! Only fresh books count for this quest (i.e. books read after 5/1/25)!!!!!
The Jedi Path: Order, Balance, and Peace
"There is no ignorance, there is knowledge."
1. The Youngling Trials
• Read a book with a young protagonist (15 or younger).
2. Archives of the Jedi Temple
• Read a book that includes a temple, church, or castle setting.
3. Balance in the Force
• Read a book where a warrior chooses diplomacy over violence or seeks to resolve conflict without fighting.
4. Across the Galaxy
• Read a science fiction or fantasy book set in space or on another world.
5. Guardian of Peace
• Read a book with a source of light on the cover.
• Read a book that includes all of the following words somewhere in the text: peace, knowledge, harmony or harmonious, serenity or serene, force.
6. Report to the Jedi Council
• Complete your mission by spelling out the first name, last name, or both of a Jedi Master from the list below. Choose your guide among the guardians of peace and justice:
(view spoiler)
The Sith Path: Power, Passion, and Control
"Through power, I gain victory."
1. Becoming an Acolyte (your first step: changing your wardrobe)
• Read a book featuring a person on the cover dressed entirely in black.
2. Secrets of the Sith Holocrons
• Read a book with one of these words in the title: secret, dark, or shadow.
3. The Rule of Two
• Read a book featuring a master-apprentice dynamic, or a toxic mentorship.
4. Crush the Weakness
• Read a book that includes all of the following words somewhere in the text: lie, passion or passionate, strength, power, victory or victorious.
• Read a book that ends with the villain prevailing.
5. A Galaxy Ruled by Fear
• Read a book where the villain serves or enforces the will of an authoritarian government or oppressive regime.
6. Report to Your Sith Master
• Complete your journey by spelling out the name or title + name of a Sith Lord or Apprentice from the list below. Choose one and honor your allegiance through their legacy:
(view spoiler)
Rewards For Completing Your Jedi/Sith Journey: Use the reward system below to calculate your XP.
You gain 2 XP per each book read + 1 Shield Potion (for a Jedi) or 1 Damage Potion (for a Sith).
• Bonus XP:
+1 XP for each Star Wars book read (canon or Legends) for tasks 1 to 6.
1 XP for each Star Wars film or full season of a Star Wars TV series watched between starting the quest (the date you finished the first book towards this quest) and collecting your reward. Mark the date you watched them.
The Quest may be repeated once:
Should your heart falter and your loyalties shift, you may embark on the Quest a second time. A fallen Jedi may surrender to the temptations of the Dark Side, while a repentant Sith may seek redemption through the ways of the Light.
Important: All books for the second run must be read after the completion of your first journey. No books may be reused—after all, Jedi wisdom and Sith ambition rarely mingle without consequences.

Do the flowers on the cover need to be real or alive? What about jewelry shaped like flowers?
As long as the floral shapes are clear and recognizable (not just decorative frills), jewelry or other artistic representations of flowers do count toward this task. The key is that they must visually resemble flowers—no guesswork required.

Which Crops Does Radagast Double?
Radagast’s bonus—“If you possess a garden, it will double the yield of your crops”—might seem ambiguous at first. It doesn’t specify that the crops must be harvested from the garden.
My interpretation is that owning a garden signals your commitment as a gardener, and Radagast rewards that dedication by doubling all crop yields, regardless of whether they grow in the garden or in a pot.
Radagast’s crop bonus includes:
• Carrots
• Peas
• Clumps of Dirt
• Roses
• Lemons
(other crops might be added later as the game develops new features)

1/ What are Event Monsters?
Event Monsters are unique creatures that appear exclusively during specific events or quests. While they don't fall under the usual Rare or Uncommon categories, they are noteworthy enough to be classified separately.
Examples include the Halloween Monsters (here), the Easter Omnibus Troll and Sir Peepocalypse from the Easter quests, and various monsters from the long-ago White Dragon event.
2/ Which Crops Does Radagast Double?
Radagast’s bonus—“If you possess a garden, it will double the yield of your crops”—might seem ambiguous at first. It doesn’t specify that the crops must be harvested from the garden.
My interpretation is that owning a garden signals your commitment as a gardener, and Radagast rewards that dedication by doubling all crop yields, regardless of whether they grow in the garden or in a pot.
Radagast’s crop bonus includes:
• Carrots
• Peas
• Clumps of Dirt
• Roses
• Lemons
(other crops might be added later as the game develops new features)
3/ For the Where Roses Bloom Quest – Task: “Plant Your Flowers” - Read three books with flowers on the cover or in the title.
Do the flowers on the cover need to be real or alive? What about jewelry shaped like flowers?
As long as the floral shapes are clear and recognizable (not just decorative frills), jewelry or other artistic representations of flowers do count toward this task. The key is that they must visually resemble flowers—no guesswork required.

What's in a name? (Enough to start a royal debate, apparently.)
The Emperor's New Non-Sense
Where Roses Bloom
And here's preview for May:
Next month will bring a mix of moods - one “serious” quest to honor the anniversary of the end of WWII, balanced by a few light-hearted and whimsical adventures to lift spirits. You’ll also find a brand-new spell to master and fresh classifieds popping up at Jack’s.

What's in a name? (Enough to start a royal debate, apparently.)
(view spoiler)
The Emperor’s New Nonsense
(view spoiler)
Fred’s Fiery Fiasco
(view spoiler)
Beware of the Equine Gourmets
(view spoiler)

What's in a name? (Enough to start a royal debate, apparently.)
The news has spread across the kingdom faster than a dragon spotting an unguarded roast: Queen Skye is expecting a royal bundle of joy! The court is abuzz with preparations, and even the squirrels in the royal gardens are arranging their nuts in celebratory patterns (or possibly just in patterns, as squirrels are wont to do). But there’s one small hitch—the Queen cannot decide on a name for the future heir or heiress.
Your task, should you choose to accept it, is to help expand Queen Skye’s baby name list by drawing inspiration from the finest tomes of the land.
To do that:
• Read five books with a first name in the title. Each name must be unique—no trying to sneak in two books about someone called "John," even if one of them is wearing a magical hat.
• Post your name list in the Tavern thread so that the patrons can guess at which one our queen will pick for her baby.
For suplementing the Queen’s baby name list with 5 bookish names, you earn 8 XP.
Bonus Reward: Should you discover books whose titles consist solely of the first name (e.g., Emma by Jane Austen or Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott), you’ll earn 1 extra XP per each such book. Queen Skye appreciates simplicity, and a name that stands alone in bold, bookish splendor is sure to catch her eye.
The Emperor’s New Nonsense
In the Kingdom of Lexomere, Emperor Thumble has taken to strolling the streets in what he claims are “robes of refined intellect.” Alas, they are nothing but air and ego, stitched together by two swindlers who promised garments only the wise could see. His citizens, not wishing to seem dim, cheer his breezy fashion sense while pretending not to wince.
Only one child dares to say, “He’s wearing nothing at all!”—and is immediately shushed for being "unpatriotic" and possibly allergic to velvet.
Queen Skye, well-read and well-dressed, remembers this tale from her storybooks. What began as a chuckle quickly became concern as Thumble’s nonsense spread: rewriting schoolbooks, replacing judges with yes-men, and claiming the moon as part of his personal real estate portfolio.
Now the Queen turns to you, bold reader! Not to hem trousers or design capes, but to unravel delusion with the sharp scissors of truth. Read bravely. Think clearly. And for the love of literacy, help the Novel Kingdom resist the rise of royal ridiculousness!
Complete the following tasks in pursuit of truth and clarity:
1. The Invisible Fabric Test - The Emperor insists that certain topics are “too controversial” for polite conversation. How convenient!
• Read a book that explores themes of race, gender, or sexuality - subjects the Emperor has conveniently chosen not to see.
• Read a book where language, words, or books are banned, erased, rewritten, or destroyed - because ignorance is so on trend this season.
• (Optional: Read a nonfiction book about censorship, book banning, or propaganda - just don’t tell His Highness.)
2. The Academy of Illusions - All schools now teach embroidery, flattery, and royal genealogy. Critical thinking? Banned.
• Read a book set in a school, university, or place of learning - preferably one that teaches more than how to compliment a crown.
• Read a book that teaches you something meaningful - be sure to share what you learned (+1 XP if it’s about critical thinking or fact-checking).
• (Optional: Read a nonfiction book about education, teaching, learning, intellectual freedom, or even a practical skill.)
3. The Parade of Delusion - Lexomere erupts in applause for the Emperor’s invisible wardrobe. No one dares call it what it is.
• Read a book where deception or self-deception plays a central role.
• Read a book where a leader (king, CEO, general, etc.) makes disastrously bad decisions.
• (Optional: Read a nonfiction book about leadership, politics, the psychology of crowds, or how to avoid walking naked into a crisis.)
4. The Silenced Child - The one who speaks the truth is often ridiculed, punished, or ignored.
• Read a book where a character is punished by someone in power (judge, teacher, parent, etc.) for speaking the truth.
• Read a book that includes a courtroom scene or legal battle for justice - because sometimes truth needs a really good lawyer.
• (Optional: Read a nonfiction book about whistleblowers, free speech, justice, or judicial system.)
5. The Emperor’s Purse - After spending a fortune on imaginary robes, the Empire’s economy is, "shockingly", not thriving.
• Read a book where somebody goes bankrupt.
• Read a book featuring a con artist, narcissist, or fraudster.
• (Optional: Read a nonfiction book about economic crises, corruption, grift, or other crime.)
6. Chronicle The Truth - so that others may benefit from your hard-won wisdom.
• Share your reading list in the Local Tavern thread once you’re done. Once submitted, your list is locked in and the quest is complete — even if you skipped an optional task. Calculate your reward according to the guidelines below.
Your reward for exposing nonsense: 2 XP per fiction book read and 3 XP per non-fiction book read. For a bonus 1 XP read Hans Christian Andersen's story The Emperor's New Clothes that inspired this quest (You can find it online for free, e.g. here: https://etc.usf.edu/lit2go/68/fairy-t... or here: https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/...).
Well done, truth-seeker! The world may cheer for invisible finery, but you know: only knowledge is truly in fashion.
Where Roses Bloom
As winter retreats, grumbling about the unfairness of spring, the Novel Kingdom stirs to life. Flowers cautiously bloom, trees compete to out-bud one another, and the air hums with the chaotic sounds of villagers battling stubborn roots and misplaced trowels. Your garden, however, waits in silence—an empty patch of potential. To turn it into a summer paradise, you must embark on a quest of digging, planting, and muttering colorful phrases at unyielding soil. In the Novel Kingdom, even gardening demands the resolve of a true hero.
!!! Only fresh books qualify for this quest!!! (i.e., books read after the quest was published)!!!
Complete a series of tasks to ensure your garden thrives.
• Rid Your Garden of Weeds - Read a book with a blade on the cover or the word "blade" in the title.
• Gather Your Tools - Read two books with garden tools on the cover or mentioned in the text. (And no tricks! It has to be an actual tool, not a charming “rake” wooing duchesses or a “spade” in a royal card game.)
• Get the Seeds - Obtain 3 Rose Bush Seeds (by defeating The Rose Thorne)
• Plant Your Flowers - Read three books with flowers on the cover or in the title.
• Water Your Flowers - Read a book with water on the cover.

Reward: 5 XP + 1 Rose Bush (The Rose Bush will produce 3 Roses on the first day of each month, beginning the month after you've completed the quest.)
Note: Inspired by The Spring Has Sprung by Abbie and Natasha. Thank you, ladies, for this wonderful idea.

The Great Easter Egg-scapade!
Spring has arrived in Novel Kingdom, and Queen Skye’s subjects are eagerly preparing for the most egg-citing celebration of the season—Easter! The festival promises grand egg hunts, chocolate feasts, and a special appearance from the Easter Bunny himself. Even the local rabbits have rehearsed a festive dance to welcome their beloved holiday hero.
But just as the final decorations are placed on the Golden Egg Display, disaster strikes. A notorious gang of mischievous chickens, known as the Peep Bandits, has stolen every single Easter egg—including the legendary Jewel Egg of Infinite Yolk. Without these sacred eggs, the Easter celebration cannot proceed.
The kingdom needs a hero—a sharp-witted, book-loving champion with a fondness for bunnies. That means you!
Your mission: Recover the stolen eggs, outwit the Peep Bandits, and restore Easter to Novel Kingdom.
Quest Rules:
- Complete each part in order. No skipping ahead—this isn’t a shortcut through a hedge maze.
- Use books from your Tote of Infinite Books that were read or first published in March or April, or select fresh books (read after the publication of this quest).
- To earn the final reward you need to complete all parts of the quest - that includes confronting the mastermind behind the heist (in Part 5).
Part 1: Crack the Case
The kingdom is in chaos. The eggs are missing, people are panicking, and local chocolatiers are in despair. To solve this mystery, you’ll need to gather clues and act fast.
1. Interview the Witnesses – The royal guards reported suspicious figures lurking near the Golden Egg Display last night. Someone must know something.
• Read a book featuring an investigation, whether it’s a detective story, conspiracy unraveling, or sleuthing adventure.
2. Consult the Town Gossip – Every kingdom has someone who knows everything. Here, it’s Madame Whispermouth, who only speaks in riddles and half-truths.
• Read a book where secrets or rumors play a major role in the plot.
3. Inspect the Crime Scene – In the Royal Egg Vault which under normal circumstances houses the Jewel Egg of Infinite Yolk, you find colorful feathers, candy wrappers, and a cryptic note. To gather the clues:
• Read a book with a bird, feather, or wings on the cover.
• Read a book where someone eats candy, cookies, or chocolate.
• Read a book in which a character breaks a code or deciphers a message.
Reward for completing Part 1: 6 XP, 6 Gold Coins (discovered under the Golden Egg Display).
Part 2: The Great Egg Hunt
Using your newly gathered information and detective skills, you pinpoint the hiding places of the stolen eggs. It’s time to track them down.
1. Recover the Chocolate Eggs – The Forest of Fiction is filled with hidden chocolate eggs, but some are booby-trapped. (Ever stepped on a melted chocolate egg? Disgusting.)
• Read a book with two or more Ts in the title (for trees) to search the area.
• To disarm the boobytraps, read a book where a bomb either explodes or somebody manages to neutralize it in time.
2. Rescue the Sugar-Coated Hostages – In the village of the Marshmallow Peeps, you discover that some of the townsfolk have been kidnapped by the Peep Bandits. They must be freed before they go stale.
• Read a book with a pink cover.
• Read a book that is heartwarming or sweet, such as a romance or fairy tale.
3. Look for the Jewel Egg of Infinite Yolk – The most powerful Easter artifact (or at least the shiniest) must be hidden somewhere high above, possibly on Cloud Nine.
• Read a book with the word "sky," "star," "cloud," or "moon" in the title or a book that is the ninth in the series.
Despite your best efforts, you recover only half of the stolen eggs and the Jewel Egg of Infinite Yolk is amongst those still missing. Queen Skye, however, appreciates your bravery and rewards you.
Reward for completing Part 2: 6 XP, 3 Find Item Potions.
Part 3: Prepare for Battle
The Peep Bandits will not surrender without a fight. You’ll need to gather supplies, form a strategy, and prepare for the final confrontation.
1. Gather Your Gear – A true hero is only as strong as their resolve (and their equipment).
• Read a book with a traditional weapon (sword, dagger, or gun) on the cover. No umbrellas, even if they can be wielded creatively.
2. Form an Attack Plan – The Peep Bandits are quick, fluffy, and fueled by sugar. You need to be prepared.
• Read a book where the main character wins a physical fight.
• To practice, defeat 20 Common monsters (!Timed monsters don't count!). All battles must take place after completing Part 2.
• To plan this complex operation, read a book featuring a character in a significant role who is a high-ranking officer, such as a colonel, general or admiral.
3. Prepare for the Sugar Rush – Battles require energy, and you’ll need plenty of it.
• Read a book with food on the cover to stock up on essential battle snacks.
Reward for completing Part 3: 6 XP, 6 Carrots (they might come in handy later).
Part 4: The Final Egg-Straction
The Peep Bandits’ secret hideout is revealed—a colossal chocolate fortress in the heart of Candy Cane Canyon. It’s time for the final showdown.
1. Infiltrate the Candy Fortress – The entrance is guarded by five rabbits kidnapped from the Forest of Fiction and brainwashed by the Peep Bandits to do their bidding. The best way to both cure their condition and sneak past unnoticed is to use carrots as bait. Your mum was right—carrots can cure a plethora of complaints.
• Read a book where the word "carrot" or "carrots" appears at least five times.
• Read a book where the main character sneaks, spies, or infiltrates a location.
2. Confront the Egg Thief – Deep within the fortress, you face the leader of the Peep Bandits gang, Sir Peepington III, a giant, fluffy, ill-tempered chicken in a tiny top hat. He has long resented Queen Skye’s favoritism toward bunnies and chocolate, and he plans to ruin Easter to make his point.
• Read a book with headwear on the cover to identify him.
• Read a book where the villain is exaggerated or over-the-top to distract Sir Peepington by placating his huge ego.
3. Recover the Remaining Eggs – With Sir Peepington distracted, you seize the Jewel Egg of Infinite Yolk and the rest of the stolen eggs and make your escape.
• Read a book where the protagonist is a runner—either an athlete or someone running from responsibility.
Reward for completing Part 4: 6 XP, 3 Heal Potions.
Part 5: Defeat the Egg-Napper Extraordinaire
Just when you think the mission is complete, Sir Peepington consumes a Jellybean of Doom and transforms into his ultimate form: Sir Peepocalypse
1. Defeat Sir Peepocalypse

Stats: 33 attack, 99 health.
This huge marshmallow-padded chicken uses its inherent special ability, Sugar Crash, against you. It overwhelms you with sugary sweetness, muddling your mind and rendering magic and advanced weaponry useless. Your primary weapon's base attack is reduced to one third of its original power (e.g., sword LVL 15 hits for 5 AP + 2 weapon bonus + pets + inventory and other bonuses). Magic and other weapons don't work against this hopped-up-on-sugar menace at all.
Tactical tip: To reduce Sir Peepocalypse's attack power, throw a carrot at him at the beginning of each turn. This offsets the sugar overload with something healthy, reducing his attack by 10 AP.
2. Return all the eggs to the Royal Egg Vault – So that the Kingdom might prepare the celebration in time for Easter.
• Read a book with an egg on the cover or "Easter" in the title.
3. Celebrate your victory!
• Announce your victory in the Local Tavern thread.
Reward for completing Part 5: 15 XP, 3 Duplication Potions.
Final Celebration
With the stolen eggs safely returned, the kingdom rejoices. Queen Skye proclaims you the official Easter Champion, and the Easter Bunny himself acknowledges your heroic deeds. As a token of gratitude, you receive an additional reward: 5 XP and 3 of the Easter Bunny’s finest decorated eggs. Your name is forever etched in the annals of Novel Kingdom’s history, and Easter is saved once more.
Note: The Easter Bunny Egg is a magical treat that restores up to 15 HP. It can be eaten in portions and remains fresh for one month after the first bite. Cannot be duplicated by the Magical Pumpkin.

🌸 The Day of Women’s Wonders 🌸
There's also a rules clarification post about calculating enemy attack power. If you're up to date on the Local Tavern thread, there's nothing new to worry about.