Hobbies, Hiking and Hangouts Columbus (H3C)

Optional: $5 donation for snacks. Complimentary unlimited wine will be dispensed from the Castle Dice Tower Wine Dispenser w Dragon
Cashapp: $DaclaudL
Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee

The philosophical tension in Berserk starts with Guts’ personal philosophy: to rely on sheer physical strength and an unyielding will to face a chaotic world. However, Guts’ view of power and independence is complicated by the reality that his adversaries—both human and demonic—wield unimaginable power. Miura paints a bleak view of the universe, where even the strongest may be helpless against the whims of destiny. Through this, he touches on a classic existentialist theme: the individual’s struggle for meaning in an indifferent or even hostile universe. In Guts’ case, he chooses to fight endlessly, driven by rage, and Miura juxtaposes this choice with a world ruled by horrific creatures and malicious deities, constantly questioning the value and purpose of free will in a predetermined, monstrous world.

Miura’s mastery lies in his world-building, where every creature, setting, and battle scars the landscape as much as it scars Guts. This creates a universe that is bleak yet captivatingly beautiful, hauntingly reflecting his inner turmoil. In Volume 1, Miura introduces supernatural forces like apostles and demons who embody humanity's darkest impulses. These supernatural horrors symbolize deeper philosophical ideas—namely the monstrous potential of ambition, greed, and unchecked desire. In a way, these early glimpses hint at what will become a central struggle for Guts: confronting humanity’s own self-destructive nature. Through Guts’ harrowing journey, Miura invites readers to confront the uncomfortable truth of human vulnerability, asking us if we would have the strength to persevere against such overwhelming darkness.

Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Berserk-Vol-1-Kentaro-Miura/dp/1593070209/ref=sr_1_1?sr=8-1

Hard Copy: https://www.amazon.com/Berserk-Deluxe-1-Kentaro-Miura/dp/1506711987/ref=sr_1_4?sr=8-4

In Berserk Volume 1, or the "Black Swordsman Arc," Kentaro Miura sets up a dark, gritty world where the central character, Guts, wages a relentless battle against supernatural forces and his own inner demons. This arc dives deep into the themes of survival, fate, and the struggle against despair, framing Guts as a figure of raw will and unmatched ferocity. Here are some of the core philosophies and life lessons that resonate within this first volume:

### 1. Human Will and Defiance Against the Odds

• Guts is introduced as a lone warrior who wields immense power, not only physically but also in spirit. He faces monstrous foes and seemingly invincible forces without hesitation, embodying the strength of human determination. This arc portrays the necessity of pushing back against oppressive circumstances, showing that even a single individual can have an impact in the face of overwhelming odds.

### 2. Fate and Resentment Against Destiny

• From the start, Guts is branded with a mark that attracts dark, malevolent forces, tying him to a grim fate beyond his control. Unlike those who submit to their circumstances, Guts refuses to be a pawn, fighting against both his curse and the dark entities that haunt him. This theme of defiance against fate challenges readers to consider what it means to confront one’s predetermined path rather than accepting it.

### 3. Isolation and the Cost of Survival

• Guts’ solitude is a recurring element, as he distances himself from others and embraces violence as a means of survival. This decision isolates him, yet it reflects a philosophy of self-reliance born out of necessity. His loneliness and grim outlook raise questions about the cost of living without connection or trust, and whether such isolation is the price of survival in a world marked by betrayal and suffering.

### 4. Darkness Within and Humanity’s Struggle with Evil

• In the "Black Swordsman Arc," Guts battles monstrous beings that seem to embody the worst aspects of humanity. His brutal methods reveal a man willing to do whatever it takes to fight the darkness around him. However, there is also a darkness within him, suggesting a complex struggle between his humanity and the vengeful rage that drives him. Miura uses these encounters to examine how battling external evils often forces us to confront the potential for evil within ourselves.

### 5. Existential Despair and Meaning in a Chaotic World

• This arc introduces Guts as a man hardened by suffering, moving through a world filled with horror and despair. His actions and relentless pursuit of revenge suggest a search for meaning amid chaos. The "Black Swordsman Arc" asks whether life in such a world can hold purpose, and if so, what that purpose might be when everything seems poised against us.

### 6. Power, Vengeance, and Its Consequences

• Guts’ immense strength and skill make him a force to be reckoned with, but his pursuit of vengeance paints him as both hero and anti-hero. His willingness to unleash his rage on any who stand in his way, whether human or monstrous, raises questions about the cost of vengeance on one’s soul. Miura portrays Guts’ quest for revenge as both a source of power and an emotional trap, hinting at the destructive nature of such single-minded pursuit.

### 7. Isolation and Self-Discovery through Conflict

• Guts’ encounters with supernatural creatures force him to confront the horror and fragility of human life. Though he largely shuns companionship, each battle brings him face-to-face with his own mortality, reminding him of what he stands to lose. This arc suggests that through struggle, one can confront personal truths and understand the essence of one’s character, even if that journey is painfully solitary.

The "Black Swordsman Arc" sets the stage for a larger story, establishing Guts as a warrior battling both external enemies and inner turmoil. Through his journey, Miura poses complex questions about strength, survival, and the psychological cost of vengeance, inviting readers to examine what drives a person to endure in a world that seems designed to break them.

Disclaimer: I have never hosted a "book club" event before and to be honest, I have never been to a book club in my entire life, so I have no idea how they are normally structured. I am, however, a fan of Berserk and Dark Fantasy, so I feel like I can lead this discussion pretty well because it's something I am genuinely interested in. We will mainly be talking the themes mentioned above.

Choose Your Ornaments: Christmas - Daclaud's Marketplace (message me directly on Meetup and tell me which ones you want).

*** I will have a set of community craft paints (over 40 colors) with brushes available for you to use!

A hand painted Christmas tree ornament is the perfect gift or stocking stuffer for your loved ones!

Feel free to order more! Get the whole collection (or whatever combination you want) for just $5 each (Special Price for Meetup)! So, feel free stock up for your Christmas Tree or give them away as gifts!

******* IMPORTANT NOTICE *******
Pre-Payment is required for this event. I need time to produce the Christmas ornaments on my 3D printers, so your payment ensures that this gets done! I need at least 2 days in advance to produce your ornaments!

Cashapp: $DaclaudL
Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee

In the case that this event is cancelled, then you will be issued a full refund. No refunds will be issued after the items are produced. Please book your spot in advance!

Enjoy a festive evening with delicious snacks and specialty loose leaf tea blends provided! Join us for a cozy gathering filled with great flavors and holiday spirit—perfect for warming up your night and creating lasting memories.

***For an extra $7 donation you can have unlimited wine from our Dice Tower Dispenser!

Meeting Location: Lucky's Market 2770 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202 by the picnic tables. Once everyone arrives, we will head down to Walhalla Rd. and loop around to Glenn Echo Tunnel and finally back through The Gates of Hell and on to the other side to Hound Dog's.

Donations are welcome for this Ghost Tour! If you enjoy the experience and find value in what we do, consider supporting the group to help keep these urban adventures going!

Cashapp: $DaclaudL
Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee

*Make sure you wear appropriate footwear (hiking shoes or boots) because we will potentially be crossing through creek water (only ankle deep, nothing extreme) and up a steep hill. But for the most part this hike is not physically demanding and is very easy.

Some of you may have heard whispers of these Columbus urban legends. Others may have only stumbled upon them because of this group. But I'm here to take you beyond the rumors and into the heart of the unknown, where these stories come to life. Join me for a first-hand experience in unraveling the eerie mysteries that haunt our city...

Join me for an unforgettable Haunted Hike and Ghost Tour through Clintonville, OH! We’ll start our eerie journey at Lucky’s Market, moving into the shadows of Walhalla Rd., where the unsettling tales of the Witch of Walhalla Woods await. From there, we’ll step into the chilling corridors of the Glenn Echo Bird Tunnel, a passage rich with local legends. Our path will lead us through the haunting trails of Glenn Echo Ravine, eventually bringing us back to Lucky’s Market to face the notorious Gates of Hell. After a night filled with adventure, we’ll wrap up with some well-deserved food and drink at Hound Dog’s, offering a brief escape from the horrors of the night.

Notable Stops

• The Gates of Hell
• Portal Park
• Walhalla Rd.
• The Calumet Bridge
• Glenn Echo Bird Tunnel
• Glenn Echo Ravine

Ready for a walk into the unknown? Read up on the lore:

• The Walhalla Witch
• The Gates of Hell

DISCLAIMER AND NOTICE
Participation in this event is voluntary and at your own risk. The organizer is a volunteer. By joining, you agree to the following:

• Assumption of Risk: Urban exploration and hiking involve risks like physical exertion, weather, wildlife, drivers, and unpredictable encounters. You accept full responsibility for your safety.
• Medical Considerations: Ensure you're fit to participate, carry necessary medications, and inform the organizer of any conditions.
• Preparation: Come prepared with proper clothing, footwear, and supplies (shoes may get wet or dirty at The Gates of Hell).
• No Liability: The organizer and group are not responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses. You release them from any claims.
• Personal Responsibility: You are responsible for your actions. Follow safety guidelines and respect the environment, property, and others.

By attending, you confirm you've read, understood, and agree to this disclaimer. Stay safe!

Meeting Location: Gemüt Biergarten 734 Oak St, Columbus, OH 43205

Donations are welcome for this Ghost Tour! If you enjoy the experience and find value in what we do, consider supporting the group to help keep these urban adventures going!

Cashapp: $DaclaudL
Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee

This hike is around 4 miles straight through, so make sure you can handle that before you sign up!

In the heart of Columbus, Ohio, shadows linger where history meets the unknown. Our journey begins at Gemut Biergarten, where we gather before venturing into the eerie depths of the city. The evening will lead us to the haunted remnants of The Kelton House, where the specter of Grace Kelton is said to still roam, her presence felt in the cold whispers of the wind. We'll pass through Topiary Park, a seemingly tranquil place that hides its own secrets beneath the artful greenery.

As we traverse the dimly lit streets, our path takes us to Nestor Hall at Columbus State Community College, where the past collides with the present in unsettling ways. And finally, we approach The Thurber House, where the spirits of long-forgotten souls stir within the walls. This is not just a walk, but a descent into the unknown, a pilgrimage into the eerie tales that shape the very essence of Columbus.

Points of Interest

• The Kelton House (The Ghost of Grace Kelton)
• Snowden-Gray Mansion (The Lady in Pink)
• Topiary Park (Ghost of a Vagrant)
• Columbus State Community College (Nestor Hall)
• The Thurber House

The night will conclude back at Gemut Biergarten, where we’ll find solace in food and drink, and perhaps, a moment of respite from the mysteries that surround us. Join us, if you dare, but leave your skepticism behind—for on this night, the line between the living and the dead is perilously thin.

Link to Audio Book: The Black Company

Optional: $5 donation for snacks. Complimentary unlimited wine will be dispensed from the Castle Dice Tower Wine Dispenser w Dragon

Cashapp: $DaclaudL
Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee

These are a few things we will be discussing;

The Black Company delves into profound themes and philosophies through its characters and gritty, morally ambiguous world. Here are some of the core philosophical ideas and life lessons it explores:

### 1. The Complexity of Morality

• In The Black Company, the lines between good and evil are blurred. The Company’s mercenaries often work for rulers and sorcerers who commit horrific acts, yet they do so out of loyalty, necessity, or a sense of survival. The characters are constantly wrestling with the moral gray areas in their lives, which poses questions about duty, loyalty, and the true nature of “right” and “wrong.”

### 2. Survival and Adaptability

• The Black Company members live by their wits and adaptability, shifting loyalties, and alliances as necessary to survive. The series emphasizes that life can be unpredictable and brutal, and those who endure are often those who can roll with hardship, make sacrifices, and move forward despite difficult circumstances.

### 3. Brotherhood and Loyalty

• Despite their dark world, the members of the Black Company have a strong sense of camaraderie. The book highlights the importance of loyalty to one another, often showing that their strongest bonds and most unshakeable loyalties are to their fellow soldiers, not necessarily their employer or the cause they’re paid to fight for. This loyalty to one another becomes a way to find meaning and purpose in an otherwise bleak life.

### 4. The Cost of War and Violence

• Cook doesn’t glorify battle; instead, he illustrates the toll that warfare takes on the mind, body, and soul. The Black Company shows how violence leaves scars, not just on the body, but on the spirit. The members often question the lasting impact of the wars they fight, realizing that the losses, betrayals, and horrors they experience can never fully be undone.

### 5. Identity and Legacy

• Many characters grapple with their identity and what it means to be part of the Black Company. They understand that their individual choices contribute to the legacy of the Company, whether they act with honor or betray their own values. The book explores how one’s identity can be shaped by the people around them, the legacy they create, and the stories they leave behind.

### 6. Fate vs. Free Will

• The soldiers of the Black Company often confront the tension between fate and their personal choices. They’re sometimes bound by forces they cannot control, such as dark magic or the commands of tyrannical leaders, and yet they find ways to exercise personal agency, making choices that can determine their own path—at least to some extent.

This is a Bring Your Own Beverage event. Feel free to bring whatever you want as long as you clean up after yourself.

Meeting Location: Kroger 3600 Soldano Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43228

In the creeping twilight of a cold and desolate December evening, we beckon you to join us on a chilling journey—a haunted hike along the infamous Camp Chase Trail. We gather in the fleeting sanctuary of a Kroger parking lot, where safety is but a temporary illusion before we venture into the darkness. Grab your provisions while you can, for it will be a long and perilous journey.

Video: https://youtu.be/P6y0RENOgT8?si=5plmAy4KwEbaQuIe

Madmen, lost to the grip of fentanyl and other mind-altering substances, roam the Camp Chase Trail under cover of darkness—a deranged figure among them, hidden in the shadows, waiting. Compelled by a dark urge, he lingers, seeking to drag any unfortunate soul who dares cross his path into the depths of madness. Armed with a terrible revelation, he murmurs secrets so chilling they unravel the sanity of anyone who listens. Beware these night wanderers, for their path is one of dread, and the trail’s secrets are not for the faint of heart.

The trail has earned a darker reputation in recent years— word on the street tells a tale of a shadowy figure, a nameless serial killer, has been whispered about in hushed tones, preying on those who wander Camp Chase Trail alone.

Cyclists and walkers alike have vanished without a trace, their fates lost to the void. Is this killer a living monster, or perhaps a phantom of the trail itself? As the shadows grow long and the night deepens, we shall follow this cursed path, ever mindful of the horrors that may stir in the silence.

Our path leads ever eastward, toward the heart of true darkness—the Cemetery for the Insane, where the gravestones are marked simply as “specimen.” Here lie the nameless, the forgotten, those whose minds were shattered and whose bodies were subjected to unspeakable experiments at the hands of a long-gone Columbus Ohio Asylum for the Insane. As we approach this desolate place, the air grows thick with the weight of madness and lost souls. It is said that on certain nights, the whispers of the deranged can still be heard through the trees.

Will you dare walk this path with us? Will you risk crossing into the domain of the serial killer who may yet stalk the trail, waiting for his next victim? For those brave enough to venture, we advise coming armed—not just with your courage, but with whatever means of protection you deem necessary. The night holds many terrors, and on this trail, safety is a fleeting hope.

This Ghost Tour is a stark reminder of society's struggle with mental health—a struggle that, sadly, endures in a new form today. On the West Side of Columbus, drug addiction has taken hold, creating a haunting parallel as countless lost souls roam the streets of Sullivant Avenue and Broad Street like modern-day zombies. This is an area filled with violence and dispair. It's a tragic reality, a reminder that while times have changed, the deep-seated issues remain, manifesting in different but equally devastating ways.

Disclaimer and Liability Waiver

By signing up and attending this hike, you fully understand and agree to the following:

1. Assumption of Risk: You acknowledge that hiking at night, especially on potentially haunted trails, presents inherent risks, including physical injury or other unexpected occurrences. You voluntarily assume all risks associated with participating in this event.
2. Release of Liability: By participating in this event, you release and hold harmless the event organizers, H3C (Hobbies, Hiking, and Hangouts Columbus), its members, leaders, and affiliates from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action related to any loss, damage, injury, or death sustained during or associated with this hike.
3. Personal Responsibility: You acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. You agree to take all necessary precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear, carrying a flashlight or other light sources, and ensuring that you have informed others of your participation in this event.
4. No Guarantees of Safety: This event does not guarantee your personal safety, and you participate at your own discretion and risk. Although the group will strive to maintain safety in numbers, the event organizers cannot be held liable for any incidents that occur during the hike.

By signing up for this event, you automatically agree to this Disclaimer and Liability Waiver. You understand and accept that your participation is entirely voluntary, and you have read and agree to the terms and conditions outlined above.

https://nightmarecombat.com/

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience like no other! Nightmare Combat is coming to Columbus, Ohio, and we're offering early access to our exclusive meetup in Spring 2025. Dive into intense combat scenarios, test your skills, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a thrilling environment. Don't miss your chance to be part of this epic event – pre-register now to secure your spot and stay updated on all the exciting details! Visit Nightmare Combat to learn more and sign up today.