If the users of Bolter and Chainsword (B&C)—a community focused on Warhammer 40,000 Space Marines and related topics—were to hold an online conference, it would likely reflect the community's passion for the Warhammer 40K universe, its lore, and its tabletop games. Here's what such an event might look like:

1. Platform and Setup

• The conference would most likely take place on a platform like Discord, Zoom, or a dedicated virtual convention platform with text channels, video streams, and shared content rooms.
• The event could feature breakout rooms dedicated to different Space Marine chapters, painting techniques, army-building strategies, and lore discussions.

2. Event Themes and Tracks

The conference could have multiple tracks based on the different interests within the B&C community:

• Lore and Storytelling Panels: Discussions on Warhammer 40K lore, especially focusing on Space Marines. Panels might include debates about the history and evolution of famous Chapters like the Ultramarines, Blood Angels, Space Wolves, and more. There could be theory crafting, future predictions, and lore deep dives into the various Black Library novels.

• Tactics and Gaming Workshops: Sessions on army-building strategies, how to field competitive Space Marine armies, and tips for various Warhammer 40K editions and expansions. There could be deep-dive breakdowns on units, Codex strategies, and competitive tactics from experienced players.

• Painting and Hobby Showcases: Since painting and modeling are key parts of the Warhammer 40K hobby, there would likely be workshops on various painting techniques, kitbashing, and terrain-building tutorials. Live painting demonstrations, "paint-alongs," or Q&A sessions with professional painters could be a highlight.

• Conversions and Modeling Tutorials: Given the popularity of unique customizations and conversions in the Warhammer community, sessions focusing on converting models and making unique figures could be popular. There could be competitions for best custom miniatures.

• Fan Fiction and Creative Writing: A place for fans to share their own fan fiction, stories, and character bios. There could be a panel on how to write compelling stories within the 40K universe, perhaps with guest writers or authors from the Black Library.

• Competitive Play Streams: Live-streamed Warhammer 40K battles featuring different chapters and factions. These could be playthroughs of competitive games or narrative-driven campaigns. Players could walk the audience through their tactical decisions as they play.

• Chapter-Specific Meetups: Smaller virtual rooms or sessions where fans of specific Space Marine chapters can discuss their favorite units, lore, and strategies. These would act as "fandom subgroups" where attendees could meet fellow fans of the Blood Angels, Iron Hands, or Deathwatch, for instance.

3. Guest Speakers and Panels

• The event would likely attract a number of prominent members from the wider Warhammer 40K community, including Black Library authors, well-known painters, and possibly even representatives from Games Workshop itself.
• Panel discussions on upcoming releases, updates to the game’s rules, or interviews with community influencers who run popular YouTube channels, podcasts, or blogs devoted to the 40K universe.

4. Contests and Tournaments

• Painting Competitions: Online galleries where participants submit their painted models for judging by peers or guest judges.
• Army Showcase: A space for players to show off their fully painted armies, especially unique builds or those based on obscure or custom chapters.
• Online Tournament: An online tabletop simulator or Warhammer 40K game tournament where participants can battle it out with their armies. Prizes or rankings could be given for the top players.

5. Exclusive Content and Merch

• Attendees might be offered exclusive downloads such as wallpapers, printable terrain, or even early access to upcoming fan-made codices or supplements created by the community.
• Custom artwork or merchandise, such as chapter-specific shirts or patches, could be available for purchase, allowing fans to rep their favorite factions.

6. Networking and Community Engagement

• A core part of any conference would be the chance for like-minded individuals to meet, chat, and share their hobby. There could be dedicated networking times or casual chat rooms where players discuss their collections, upcoming projects, or the latest happenings in the Warhammer 40K universe.
• Forum integration would allow for discussions from the conference to spill over into the site's traditional areas, with threads dedicated to follow-ups from panels, contest results, or post-event analysis.

7. Technology-Enhanced Interaction

• Virtual Painting Room: With screen-sharing, attendees could work on painting miniatures together virtually, with experienced painters giving live feedback on technique and color schemes.
• Tabletop Simulator Integration: Warhammer 40K battles could be simulated using tools like Tabletop Simulator, allowing for remote players to participate in battle reports, streamed games, or even tutorials on the platform.

8. Fan-Driven Content

• Much of the event could feature community-generated content, with fans submitting proposals for panels, leading chapter-specific discussions, or hosting mini-games and contests.
• There could be collaborative world-building or story-writing exercises where attendees help build a new Space Marine chapter or craft a battle scenario for the community to use.

9. Charity Drives

• As part of the conference, the community might rally around a charitable cause, organizing auctions for painted miniatures, limited-edition models, or other fan-created items with proceeds going to veteran organizations or child-focused charities.

In essence, a Bolter and Chainsword online conference would bring together the various facets of the Warhammer 40K hobby—painting, gaming, lore, and community-building—under a shared love for the Space Marines and the grimdark future. It would blend professional content with fan-driven creativity, fostering an inclusive and enthusiastic environment for newcomers and veterans alike.