By THLaird Colyne Stewart. Credits:
Contents © Todd Fischer , 2005.
Inscription
Once
again, upon the orders of my feudal laird, Colyne Stewart, do I, William
Scrymgeour, whose brother Stephen has moved into legend, again resume the tale
of the Canton of Ardchreag.
t t t t t
January XXXIX (the beginning of the year
mundanely known as 2005)
Laird Colyne Stewart and Lady Þorfinna
gráfeldr graciously opened the doors of their keep, Drew’s End, for the annual
canton 12th Night celebrations on January 10. Those in attendance
included Lord Eirik Anderson, Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Herr Wulfgang Don nerfaust,
Lady Naja Kesali, Sof’ia Bardeva, Tarian verch Gadarn (and Ethan), Lady Iolanda de Albornoz , Drew, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr,
Jennifer of Ardchreag, and Wat of Sarum. The gift giving—or should that be
stealing—game went swiftly this year. At the insistence of the guests, the
Shaft was once again awarded. The two main competitors were Siegfried and Snaebjorn. Siegfried ’s
tale of losing his keys at an event, only to find them later in the boots he
was wearing, won by one vote.
t t t t t
One week later the canton moved into
its new meeting space, the Dillingham Keep. A quick business meeting took
place, where Lady Naja Kesali took over from Lady Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust as canton Arts and Sciences Minister.
There was a very large turn-out to support the new location. In attendance were
(from Ardchreag): Glynis, Lord Eirik Anderson, Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Laird Colyne Stewart, Lord Wat of Sarum, Count
Sir Rory Cennedi , Lady Mahault van der Eych, Lord Berend van der Eych, Adelaide
van der Eych, Marie de Chat Noir, Lady Naja Kesali, Sof’ia Bardeva, Tamara
Sofiasdaughter, Herr Wulfgang Don nerfaust,
Lady Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr,
Lord Piero di Paxiti da Vincenza, and Karin (an old time member); (from Petra
Thule) Sir Nigel MacFarlane, Baroness Adrielle
Kerrec; (from Bastille du Lac) Sir Evander MacLachlan, Chris, Jeff ; (from Greenhithe) Lord Ludwig and Katherine
von Eisengrim. As a highlight for the evening, Eirik put on armour and fought
for the first time! After the meeting many of the assembled gentles went to the
Inn of the Grizzly and ate excellent fare.
t t t t t
Septentrian 12th Night was held on January 22.
From Ardchreag to Skeldergate
traveled Colyne Stewart, Þorfinna
gráfeldr, Siegfried Brandbeorn, Eirik Andersen , Wat of Sarum, Oksana, Snæbjörn
sverðsbrjótr, Naja Kesali, Berend van der Eych, Mahault van der Eych, Adelaide
van der Eych and Lorraine.
Ruprecht, the evil great troll of the North, who hates all
things good and pure, sent his fury down upon the land, burying the world in
snow and ice. However, the people of the northern lands have strong spirits and
were not to be dissuaded from traveling. For lo, wagons lumbered forth across
the roads, valleys and dales, and many braved the inclement weather. Indeed,
travelers from the Barony of Rising Waters and Skraeling Althing did attend the
celebrations, as did some from the Kingdom
of AEthelmearc .
All these good gentles trudged through the blowing snow into
the warmth of Skeldergate ’s halls.
Coats and robes were flung to a table and the sounds of merriment filled the
room.
Somewhere in his cave Ruprecht raged.
Many games were played that day, and the stakes were high.
For with every victory the winner would receive a token. These tokens would
later be drawn for prizes from a laden and groaning table. The Games Guild of Ealdormere laid ‘serious’ games upon
a table, and many present enjoyed a game of Glic, or Mills, or Nine-Man-Morris.
Meanwhile, members of House Galbraith operated ‘silly’ games, such as pitching
plague cows at castles and a bean bag toss.
A number of round devices called hula-hoops were also
employed, and three charming (though beauty challenged) ladies entertained
those present with their gymnastic routines. These Beard Sisters, who bore a
striking resemblance to Lord Berend van der Eych, Laird Colyne Stewart and Snæbjörn
sverðsbrjótr, hopped, skipped and cavorted with said hoops, challenging others
to games of endurance and stamina. Many, including the knights Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn and Sir Evander MacLachlan
accepted their challenges.
Hans and Brigid of Eoforwic ,
the King and Queen of Misrule, arrived, and Ruprecht raged the more, for with
them arrived more fun and silliness. For the King and Queen were weighted down
with tokens which one could win by entertaining them (indeed, the Beard Sisters
were granted tokens based on their appearances alone) or by stealing them. The
barbarians Grimroth and Tannan tried their hand at thievery, reaching down the
bodice of one of the gentle Beard Sisters. Though they had been told she had
many tokens, they did not find them on her person (she had hidden them in her
lord’s sporran).
A mat was spread upon the floor, upon which had b een painted circles of various colours. Up to six
people at a time would meet upon the mat, contorting their bodies to try and
touch the different coloured circles as the King of Misrule commanded them. The
last to stand would win many tokens.
In the afternoon, a court was held, firstly conducted by
Cromwell, Lord Protector of Misrule (who looked a lot like Arminius the Footsore). Cromwell did call before him
all the men dressed as women, for from their ranks he would pick a consort. He
tested their demure looks, their hips, and their singing voices, and finally
chose a blond haired cotehardie wearing beauty with a scruffy chin.
Cromwell handed out several awards for garish clothing,
unruly behaviour and
the such, before calling before him the King and Queen of Misrule which had
somehow survived an assassination attempt (one reportedly set in motion by
Cromwell himself). It was a kangaroo court he said, so the prosecutor and
defender would b oth have to be
constantly jumping at least six inches off of the floor. A lord from Bastille
called Edward was the prosecutor.
This Edward was wearing a kilt, and
he was wearing it in proper style, so that while he jumped he was forced to clutch
the material between his knees. Mistress Nicolaa de Bracton did jump for the defense, wearing a head
piece made of currency and a dress emblazoned with leaves and winged wheels
(which represented some sort of sporting teams). Finding the King and Queen
innocent, Cromwell abdicated and he and his consort left the dais.
Now the King and Queen of Misrule did reign, and conducted
their business. Most notably, the Baron and Baroness of Rising Waters did come
into court, and they did grace their cousins the Baron and Baroness of
Septentria with the bounties of the lakes and rivers of their lands. Their
Excellencies Rising Waters, protected by their guard salmon, gave many fishy
treasures, including chocolate fish, a fish shaped menu, a baldric covered in
little fishies and a box of crackers in the shape of fish.
After court a grand feast was held, one cooked by Their
Excellencies of Septentria, and many were the sighs of pleasure as the diners
devoured all placed before them. Their Excellencies, to show the wealth of
their barony, did make manna fall from heaven, and soon bread was flying
throughout the hall.
Feast was followed by a long slow withdrawal, as all those
present prepared themselves to go back out into the cold and face Ruprecht’s
wrath again. However, by this time his rage had subsided somewhat, his energy
spent, and the snowfall was now slow and gentle. Goodbyes were said, wagons
were loaded, and the celebrants headed for home.
t t t t t
The Shire of the
March of St. Martin hosted the traditional Season of the Wolf event on January
29. Many from the High Cliffs made the long trek, including Lord Eirik Andersen , Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Lord Wat of Sarum, Lady Oksana, Lord Berend van der Eych and Lady Mahault van der Eych, Herr Wulfgang Don nerfaust, Lady Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust, Lady Naja Kesali and Drew. Several
housed themselves within the keep of former Chreaggers Duchess Eanor of Amberhall and Lord William Don ovan .
At the event, Wulfgang’s squire brother—THLord Kasimir of Stargard—was put on
vigil for the Order of Chivalry.
t t t t t
February AS XXXIX
Ardchreag once
again hosted its annual pas d’armes, this year on the 19th day of
February. Locals attending included: Berend van der Eych, Rory Cennedi , Laird Colyne Stewart, Eirik Andersen , Iolanda de
Albornoz , Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust,
Jennifer of Ardchreag, Mahault van der Eych, Naja Kesali, Rhys ap Bledri, Sarah , Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Sof’ia Bardeva, Snæbjörn
sverðsbrjótr, Tarian verch Gadarn, Þorfinna gráfeldr, Volodymyr ‘Vlad ’ Blahuciak, Wat of Sarum and Wulfgang Don nerfaust.
Noble and redoubted knights, honored and gentle squires,
I have come before you to advise, request and notify you on behalf of the Canton of Ardchreag of a
very noble tourney and b ouhort of
arms that has recently been undertaken by them. These gentles have agreed
together to welcome you over all others on account of the great fame of your
valor, the renown of your intelligence and the praise of the virtues that have
long endured in your noble persons. So, please join us, for much good may come
of it.
So began the announcement, proclaiming the pas d’armes to be
held at Snowed Inn IV ,
hosted b y the Canton of Ardchreag.
Once again the Company of the White Heart did ride forth and offer up a sword
to the most worthy fighter of the day. A sword first won by Lord Tiberius of Warwickshire, then by THL Kasimir of
Stargard, and then by Lord Etain de Neval.
The hall was large, with banners hung upon the walls, and
rafters spanning high over head. To one side of the hall were arrayed many
tables, where good gentles gathered and sat. Along one wall was spread an Arts
and Sciences display and competition, beside which sat another table, this one
laden with games for all to play, supplied by the Games
Guild of Ealdormere .
The other side of the hall was given over to the tournament.
A line of tables ran along one side of the list field, upon which each fighter
placed their helm. On the opposite side of the lists was constructed a gallery,
where the consorts of those taking part in the tournament might watch in comfort.
First, the Ladies of the Gallery did inspect the displayed
helms, seeking for any belonging to a combatant they felt to be a rogue or in
some other way unworthy to compete. No such recreant was discovered, and her
Majesty Genevieve led the other Ladies onto the lists, where each was given a
pole, upon which hung a gold or blue star. The King of Arms and his heralds
called out all those who were to compete in the tournament, and those
combatants then made an oath to fight in honour and with courtesy. For this was
a tournament, an event of heraldry and comradeship, not a war battle. Oath
made, each fighter then had to lance one of the stars with their sword to
determine their team. The Ladies of course did not make this easy, juggling
their poles and making the stars bounce and b ob.
Finally, all the stars were lanced, and the Azure and Or teams were formed.
The Ladies were then led to the gallery, being a raised dais
where they sat in comfort, fed, watered and waited upon by Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr
called Swordbreaker.
The tournament did then begin. First individual challenges
were made, as fighters of the Or strode forth to the center of the lists,
holding aloft their weapon of choice. When the Ladies had been satisfied, and
when every combatant had fought at least once, a grand melee was held. The
combatants battled until hit, at which point they returned to their end of the
list and waded once again into battle. Again, this continued until the Ladies
had been satisfied. After a short break a barrier was erected in the centre of
the lists and the Blue team now made challenges to the Gold. After the barrier
there was one more grand melee to conclude the pas.
The Ladies of the Gallery then entered the lists, and the
combatants knelt about them. The Ladies then handed out several tokens to the
combatants, to recognize certain deeds or talents. Count Sir Rory Cennedi was recognized for his energy and
enthusiasm, Laird Colyne Stewart for his heraldic display, Edward and Argyle for being newly authorized and
fighting with such eagerness in the tournament. Lord Tiberius
of Warwickshire and Lord Tarquin Bjornnson were also given tokens. These were
by no means the only tokens awarded, but only the ones that this chronicler can
now recall. Also, the Sword, the grand prize of the tournament, was that day
graced to His Excellency Ramshaven, Baron Konrad Matthias Jaegger von Dubrau,
to hold for a year and a day, to be brought to Snowed Inn the following year
where it would once again be sought after in the lists.
Following the pas there was a Royal Speed Tournament, as
well as several individual challenges.
Court was then held, and many worthy gentles were recognized
for their contributions to the kingdom. Their Excellencies of Septentria
bestowed Awards of the Golden Bear upon Lord Berend and Lady Mahault van der
Eych, and the Horn of Muinnin—Septentria’s preeminent award—upon Lady
Christiana MacNamara and Lord Percival de Laroque. Her Majesty then called upon
many for acknowledgment, including Tarian verch
Gadarn , who was made a Lady, Lord Hans Thorvaldsson who was
given an Award of the Scarlet Banner, and Baroness Gaerwen
of Trafford , who was elevated to the Order of the Crucible.
Duke Sir Finnvarr de Taahe’s knighting scroll was recognized by Her Majesty as
a true relic of Ealdormere.
After court a most sumptuous feast was held, prepared b y Lady Mahault and Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn. It consisted of: Squash Soup, Sautéed Mushrooms, Roast
Onion Salad, Roast Chicken with
Orange Sauce, Hungarian Torta,
Ham with Winter Cameline Sauce, Torta Bolognese, Blancmange, Chireseye and Candied
Orange Rinds. (This was in fact part of Mahault’s winning entry in the previous
year’s Kingdom Arts and Sciences Pentathlon.)
It was a grand finale to a glorious day in Ealdormere.
t t t t t
On February 26,
Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn,
again organized a demonstration for those barbarians who are interested in
fairy tales. Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Lady Mahault
van der Eych, Lord Berend van der Eych and Adelaide van der Eych represented
Ardchreag. Friends from Skeldergate
also came out, including: Duke Sir Berus
Wulfesonne, Duchess Marion FitzWilliam, Baron Corwyn Galbraith, Baroness
Domhnail Galbraith, Lord Hamish
Gunn, Lady Ceridwyn y Anghofidig and Jordan of House Galbraith.
t t t t t
That same day, Colyne Stewart was battling in the East Kingdom .
Below is a transcription from his personal journal.
The
trip to the East Kingdom ’s Winter War began at 6 am . Up, out of bed and showered, and
then off with Syr Evander MacLachlan
to a lot located off the King’s Highway. There we were picked up by Lord Ludwig
von Eisengard and Lady Katharine von Eisengard in their very large covered wain.
We were soon trundling down the highway, making one brief stop to pick up Rattanicus and Edward
(two of the new Bastille Boys) before heading for the Shire of Northern Outpost
in the East Kingdom (known to the barbarians as Potsdam, New York). The trip
was uneventful, the border crossing easy and b rief,
the time spent in pleasant conversation and the consuming of baked corn chips
and Sir Timothy’s pastries.
We
arrived at the event site around 11 am ,
and Evander was not out of the wain for more than a moment before running
across his ex-squire brother, Baron Conrad Connor MacAllyn.
The site had netting that had b een
lowered to enclose the centre of the hall. This would allow any combat archery
or thrown weapons during melees without fear of injuring bystanders. We lugged
in our gear, and went to pay at the gate, encountering our first cultural
difference of the day. Namely, not having to sign the waiver at gate if you
have your blue card. Thus signed in we quickly put on our kits. I was asked b y a local squire (whose name unfortunately I have
now forgotten) to do warm-ups.
Then,
the melees began. To begin, they were impromptu pick-ups, but soon sides were
chosen with fighters spread out as evenly as possible. Evander, Rattanicus , Edward ,
Ludwig and I were put on the left flank, along with fellow Ealdormereans Sir
Rory Cennedi and his squires
Iohannes and Hrothgar. Our orders were to try to either flank the other side,
or stop them from flanking us. Generally what happened was that their flankers
and ourselves ended up meeting off to the left of every battle. I found that
the East tended to use more spears and pole-arms than Ealdormere (or, if they
don’t, then they kept sending them all at me). I spent the majority of the day
trying valiantly to block long-range weapons.
After
the melees we did b ridge battles,
with a short (say, ten foot) bridge. With such a short bridge the teams used
one of two tactics: just run blindly into the enemy, or sit back and let the
long-range weapons pick each side apart piece by piece. Eventually this became
an unlimited resurrection battle. If you died you went over and joined the
other side. This made for interesting fighting as the teams kept changing.
We
then did a Peers vs. the Known World scenario, where the eight knights in
attendance took on the other twenty-seven or so fighters. I joined up with
there others to form a four-man team. Our plan (which I believe was Rattanicus ’) was simple. We would run at the knight
in green (who’s name, I believe, was Sir Stephen). When the lay on was called
we saw our man and ran right at him. I managed to get a shot in over his shield
killing him as we came into range, but the valiant knight legged me at the same
time. I was then left behind on my knees by my team-mates as they ran off after
other knights. The knight chuckled and patted me on the shoulder as he walked
off the field. (That would b e my
highlight of the day.)
Following
the massacre of the chivalry (with such odds, victory was almost guaranteed to
the Known World) they split us up by mundane country. The marshal told all of
us from Canada to go to one
side of the field, while those from America (which would b e “most of us”) would take the other. We got
quite a chuckle when it was discovered that Canadian fighters on the field
actually out numbered the Americans by two. We evened the teams out, as the
marshal explained the battle to come. It was called the meat grinder, and was
unlimited resurrection. Red and b lack
mats had b een spread out over the
field. Red mats were lava: if you touched them, you were dead. Black mats were
tar: if you touched them you were stuck to them until someone killed you. This
ran until everyone was too tired to continue. I finally called it quits near
the end when I was skewered upon at two spears simultaneously, leaving me
devoid of breath and with two broken ribs. (This just went to prove how ineffective
my current harness was against thrusts from great weapons, and the following
day a new kit was assembled. It was the final kick in the rear I needed to get
the project done.)
His
Majesty of the East, Sir Thorvald Halvorsen, was in attendance and held a
court, but as we had not brought any garb with us, we watched from the
sidelines where we unfortunately could not hear what was happening. Court was
closed when His Majesty stood and ran at a mat, jumping in the air, and
executing a body flip. This was met with great applause, and many good gentles
followed his example.
We
then loaded b ack up the wain, said
our goodbyes and b egan the trek
home, happily munching on a flavour of baked corn chip not available in
Ealdormere at the time. This time we were stopped at the border, and the wain
was searched. However, the guards of course found nothing, and we got to see
their display case of confiscated weapons.
It
was an excellent fighting event, and the folks of Northern Outpost are among
the friendliest and most accommodating people I have met in my travels. I am
sure I’ll be finding my way down for their Winter War again next year.
t t t t t
During this time
Wulfgang and Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust
moved to the Shire of Trinovantia Nova. As a result, at this time Þorfinna
gráfeldr became Deputy Seneschal, Naja Kesali Orekh became the Minister of Arts
and Sciences, Colyne Stewart became Pursuivant, and Tarian
verch Gadarn became Chatelaine. The position of Royalty
Liaison was left vacant.
t t t t t
March AS XXXIX
On the 5th
of March, the Shire of Trinovantia Nova again hosted the Winter War. From
Ardchreag traveled: Berend van
der Eych, Rory Cennedi , Colyne
Stewart, Eirik Andersen, Mahault van der Eych, Naja Kesali, Rhys ap Bledri, Siegfried Brandbeorn, Sof’ia Bardeva, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr, Þorfinna gráfeldr, and
Wat of Sarum.
There were many fighters on the field that day, including
many visitors from the Middle Kingdom, including the newly knighted Sir Jocelyn
le Jongleur, as well as the King and the Prince of the Middle, Sir Brannos and
Sir Alaric le Fevre.
The first was Herr Wulfgang Don nerfaust,
squire-brother to Kasimir, authorized in great sword that day. Nigel of House
Galbraith authorized in sword and shield, while Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr was
authorized in dagger and Anna became the second Galbraith to ever authorize in
fencing.
The bridge battle was
an unlimited resurrection battle, which lasted for forty minutes and was a test
of endurance for even the hardiest warriors.
The Honourable Lord Kasimir of Stargard had b een placed on vigil, to be elevated into the
grand Order of Chivalry. This is the same Kasimir who made such an excellent
showing at the kingdom’s last Crown Tournament. And so the good Vendel did hold
the field against all comers, and b attle
long and hard he did, until all were satisfied. He then retired to a yurt which
the Rozakii had erected, and there he heard the words of wisdom from all those
who came to visit him and wish him well. And in the evening he did serve, for
this is how Sir Sarnac Bahadur, his knight, had spent his own vigil day.
When feast was done, Their Royal Lupine Majesties did hold
Their court, where many good gentles were recognized for their skills and
service. Finally, Kasimir, son of Sarnac, son of Roak, was brought before Their
Majesties, preceded b y his
squire-brothers, who bore his shield and helm. There, many noble people did
speak of his many virtues, and he was laden with gifts. For he was cloaked, and
spurred, and given a sword. Also was he given a spear, for he was a Vendel.
And, of course, he was given custody of the chain of the Ealdormere’s Order of
Chivalry. His Majesty Malik then invited His Majesty Sir Brannos and Sir Sarnac
to place their hands with His upon the Sword of State, and together they did
dub Kasimir, and make him a Knight of the Realm.
t t t t t
The Barony of
Rhydderich Hael in the Kingdom
of AEthelmearc observed
the Passing of the Ice Dragon on March 19. From Ardchreag traveled Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr, Lord Eirik Andersen and Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr. Many other
good gentles from Ealdormere also made the journey, including Their Royal
Majesties Malik and Genevieve, Sir Evander MacLachlan, Sheikh Auguste Valizan,
Baron Tancred of Tanglewood, Dagmar of House Galbraith, Lord Rhisiart ap Meredudd, Lady Lassarfhina Inghean Uilleag, Edward
Fuchyn dit Lyon and Rattanicus .
Evander and Siegfried took second
place in a two-man bear pit tournament.
t t t t t
That same day Lady Naja Kesali Orekh went north-east to
Petrea Thule for their annual Late Winter Shoot.
t t t t t
April AS XXXIX
Ramshaven again hosted Forward into the Past, this year held
on April 9th. Lord Berend van der Eych, Lady Mahault van der Eych
and others from Ardchreag attended as teachers and students.
t t t t t
On the 16th of April, trumpets blew in the Barony
of Rising Waters to herald another Lady Mary Memorial Tournament. Among the
attendees from Ardchreag were Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Lord Wat of Sarum and Lady Sof’ia Bardeva.
t t t t t
On
April 18th, the Village
of Ardchreag held its second
manorial court. Each person wishing to participate brought with them a certain
number of dry goods. For each item of dry goods they received one token with
which they would b e able to pay
fines and b ribes during the court.
The amount of dry goods brought was up to each participant, and all goods
brought went towards the canton’s baronial taxes (to raise the baron’s weight
in food to be donated to a food b ank
at Feast of the Bear in November).
Unlike
in the previous court, this time jurors could make charges as well as be
charged themselves. They also sometimes acted as pledges.
The
court scribe records the following persons as in attendance:
Corwyn
Galbraith, Lord of the
Manor
Marion FitzWilliam, Lady of the Manor
Berend van der Eych, flesh and fowl taster, member of the White Tithing
Marion FitzWilliam, Lady of the Manor
Berend van der Eych, flesh and fowl taster, member of the White Tithing
Colyne Stewart, ale taster, member of the White Tithing
Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust,
juror, member of the Green Tithing
Mahault van der Eych, brook looker, member of the Green Tithing
Naja Kesali Orekh, bailiff, member of the White Tithing
Nicolaa de Bracton, visiting dignitary from the Citie of Eoforwic
Tarian verch Gadarn, beadle, member of the Green Tithing
Wat of Sarum, ale taster, member of the Green Tithing
Also,
Adelaide van der Eych, Marie de Chat Noir, and b aby
Ethan.
The
lord and lady of the manor, and the jurors, sat at one end of the room on a
dais representing the court. All others in attendance sat about the other three
sides, leaving the centre of the room open. Someone wishing to lay a charge
would respectfully step before the court and state their accusation. The
accused would then step forward as well. Both would b e
instructed to gather pledges and b etween
one and two minutes were allowed for this. During this time much money changed
hands as pledges were bought, silences ensured and officials bribed. (Any bribe
to a juror went right into the beadle's money jar.)
Both
sides then presented their stories, and all pledges were allowed to speak.
Rebuttals were allowed, though the court could stop them at any time. The court
then discussed the testimony and settled on a verdict. Generally, if the
defendant was found guilty they—and all their pledges—were fined. As well,
generally, if the defendant was found innocent, the plaintiff and all their
pledges were fined. There were of course cases where both sides were fined or
only certain people on both or either side.
The
charges and their results are below:
Colyne
Stewart, ale taster, did accuse Wulfgang Don nerfaust
of failing to pay chevage (a tax to move outside of the lord’s manor). Colyne
said that his very absence proved the charge was true, and that his absence
meant he was negligent in his duty as Chief Pledge of the White Tithing. Though
the bailiff, Naja Kesali, and Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust
tried to argue that Wulfgang was merely engaged in espionage in Trinovantia
Nova on the lord’s behalf, he was found guilty. His estate (in the person of
Jean-Margaret) was fined three gold.
Wat
of Sarum, ale taster, charged Mahault van der Eych, brook looker, with stealing
some of his ale, and having unseemly revels at her home. For pledge, Wat
secured Siegfried Brandbeorn, Hayward and village
alderman. For her defense, Mahault enlisted Berend van der Eych, flesh and fowl
taster, Naja Kesali, bailiff, and Colyne Stewart, ale taster. They allege that
Wat’s missing ale was in fact consumed b y
him, and further that he had left his ale under a bird’s nest to be fouled. At
this point Wat accused Mahault of witchcraft! First Naja, then Colyne and
Berend, threw themselves on the mercy of the court and admitted that Mahault was
indeed a witch and had ensorcelled them to give testimony on her behalf. Magistra
Nicolaa de Bracton , emissary from
the Citie of Eoforwic , spoke as an
expert witness having spent much time with the Dominicans. She is adept at
spotting witches and assured the court that Mahault could very well be a witch.
It is pointed out that Mahault spends much time with her horse and has many
cats (having in fact recently acquired a third). Also, wearing her low-cut
bodice revealed to all that she had a strange mark on her chest1. Siegfried alleged that she had for a time turned him
into a dog (though he had gotten better). All this evidence weighed heavily
upon Mahault, who was found guilty of stealing Wat’s ale and had to pay one
gold. Further she was fined one gold for throwing revels to which the lord had
not been invited, one gold for practicing witchcraft, and one gold per person
she had ensorcelled. Her case was then sent to the church court for further
prosecution. Wat was charged one gold for leaving his ale under a bird’s nest.2
Naja
Kesali Orekh and Jean-Margaret Don nerfaust
allege that, while at Lady Mary’s, they overheard Eirik
Andersen and Siegfried
Brandbeorn plotting to overthrow the lord of the manor! For their defense, Siegfried and Eirik call on Berend van der Eych,
flesh and fowl taster, Mahault van der Eych, brook looker, Colyne Stewart, ale
taster, and Wat of Sarum, ale taster. Eirik and Siegfried
assert that they were indeed plotting, but their coup was aimed at the lands of
Rising Waters, to increase the size of the lord’s manor. Eirik says that he
never saw Naja or Jean-Margaret nearby at the event, so for them to overhear
their words they would have had to use witchcraft! Wat then accuses Naja—a
Rus—of being a gypsy! Naja and Jean-Margaret counter that Eirik is a witch, as
he has a device that steals people’s images and places them on paper. In
horror, Wat left Eirik’s side and went over to Naja and Jean-Margaret. The
court found Eirik and Siegfried
guilty and charged them each one gold. They also sent Eirik’s case up to the
church court. They also found Naja guilty of witchcraft and fine her one gold.
However, having no more money, she cast the evil eye on all present and fled
the room!
As
the court slowly came to order, Naja’s sister Ivanna the Oblivious—a member of
the Russian Orthodox Church—arrived.
Irritated
at Wat of Sarum’s head knuckling, the lord fined him six gold.
Tarian
verch Gadarn, beadle, accuses Berend of sabotage in the name of vanity. She
alleged that Berend taught her how to make mead for entry in the Annual Ulrich
von der See Memorial Mead Competition, and that he sabotaged her batch. The
lady of the manor speaks on Berend’s behalf, saying that sometimes a sound b rewer will just have helpless pupils, intimating
that she herself is such an inept pupil of the lord of the manor. Tarian called
on Wat of Sarum, ale taster, Ivanna the Oblivious and Mahault van der Eych,
brook looker. Wat asked how someone as talented as Tarian could make such bad
mead as she displayed at the Competition. Mahault said that she was also taught
by Berend, using the same supplies he provided, and that her batch also turned
out foul. Ivanna said she heard Berend tell Tarian that her batch was fine for
entry, which was patiently false. Mahault went on to say that Berend sabotaged
their mead b ecause of the sin of
pride, as he is the usual winner of the competition. Berend was found guilty
and fined one gold. He was also fined one gold for being a braggart and one
gold for wasting honey. Tarian was fined one gold for not paying an
apprenticing tax. The lady of the manor was fined two gold
b y the lord for rubbing salt in his old wounds.
Mahault
van der Eych, brook looker, charges Colyne Stewart, ale taster, with poaching
fish from the lord’s pond. As pledges Mahault provided Berend van der Eych,
flesh and fowl taster, Ivanna the Oblivious, and Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Hayward
and village alderman. Colyne called on Eirik Andersen, juror and village
alderman, and Wat of Sarum, fellow ale taster. Colyne said that he did not
poach any fish as he does not eat fish at all. When Mahault asked if he did not
eat fish on Friday, he replied that he fasts on Fridays. As proof of his
fasting Wat pointed out the four stone in weight Colyne had recently lost, and
Eirik told of a Friday recently past where Colyne sent his meal back to the
kitchen rather than eating it. However, Berend, Ivanna and Siegfried prove that he often broke his fasts on
Fridays and that fasting or not, that did not explain why they all saw him
poaching fish. Colyne was fined seven gold!
Mahault
van der Eych, brook looker, then asked that her sentence for stealing a lamb
from the previous court be overturned as she had only been holding on to it to
use in a stew for that year’s Snowed Inn feast. The jury decided that the meat
in the stew could have been anything and Mahault was fined one gold for wasting
the court’s time.
Jean-Margaret
then paid her chevage as she would likely soon be moving to Trinovantia Nova to
join her husband Wulfgang.
Court
was then concluded. All the remaining tokens were collected and counted to give
a rough count of the number of dry goods collected (as each item was worth one
coin). It was discovered that 154 coins had b een
used throughout the court’s proceedings, meaning that roughly 154 items for the
canton’s taxes to the barony had b een
raised.
1.
Her military tattoo.
2.
This whole case, devised b y Siegfried ,
is a parody of the witch trial from Blackadder. Nicolaa was playing the part of the Witchfinder
Pursuivant.
3.
Eirik was soon to become Siegfried ’s squire.
t t t t t
The 23rd day of April marked the Coronation of
Edouard III and Genevieve II. Before they left the thrones to go out into the
field and aid their parents in battle, TRMs Malik and Genevieve did hold a
final court in the Barony of Skraeling Althing on a cold and rainy day. In that
court they did recognize the skill and service of several, including THL Kaylah
the Cheerful for her efforts in Ealdormere’s armed forces, and THL Richard
Larmer, whom they made a Baron of Their Court. Taking up Their weapons They
then removed Their crowns and left the thrones vacant. The Barons and
Baronesses of Ealdormere did then hold the lands of Ealdormere, until Edouard
and Genevieve appeared, and b id them
give the stewardship of Ealdormere up to them, or there would b e civil unrest and fire. Their Excellencies gave
consent, and Edouard and Genevieve then went on to prove their claim over and
over to receive each item of regalia to prove their king- and queen-ship. Once
fully ordained, they held a court in which they called forth His Excellency
Ramshaven, Baron Konrad Matthias Jaeggar von Dubrau, whom they placed on vigil
for elevation into the Order of Chivalry. Konrad’s knight, Sir Belgar, not seen
in our lands for many years, was on hand to personally beg the boon.
Those from the Cliffs who attended included: Count Sir Rory Cennedi , Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Laird Colyne Stewart, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Lord Eirik Andersen , Lord Berend van der Eych, Lady
Mahault van der Eych, Adelaide van der Eych; as well as former Chreagers Lady
Elaine leMesurier, Lord Melchior Carver, and Lord William Don ovan .
At this event Þorfinna was taken on by Cennedi as a man-at-arms for a year.
t t t t t
New village appointments were filled on the meeting of April
25th.
Bailiff:
Colyne
Reeve:
Eirik
Woodward:
Naja
Juror
1: Siegfried
Juror
2: Mahault
Juror
3: Berend
Claviger:
Þorfinna
Hornblower:
Wat
Flesh
and fowl taster: Eileen LeMesurier
The
tithings stood thusly:
Green:
Berend, Siegfried , Naja, Wat, Eirik
White:
Þorfinna, Mahault, Eileen, Colyne
t t t t t
On April 30th, Lord Wat of Sarum and Lady Oksana z
Morivy traveled with TRMs to the Stronghold of Tor Brandt to participate in the
annual Dandelion Festival.
t t t t t
That same day, Greater De Taahe did hold a brewing day at
the home of the Van der Eychs. Those from Ardchreag who did attend included:
Count Sir Rory Cennedi , Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Lord Berend van der Eych, Lady
Mahault van der Eych, Lord Eirik Andersen ,
Laird Colyne Stewart, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr. Other guests included: Baroness Adrielle Kerrec, Sir Nigel MacFarlane, Lord Melchior
the Carver, Lady Eileen leMesurier and Kuni.
t t t t t
May AS LX
On the 7th of May, the Lord Mayor of the Citie of
Eoforwic invited all who wished to
attend, to come and partake of a Market Day. From Ardchreag traveled Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn (who won first place in a Royal
Tournament), Lady Naja Kesali Orekh and Lady Sof’ia Bardeva.
t t t t t
At the meeting on the 9th of May, Lord Berend van
der Eych stepped down as the canton’s seneschal. Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr was
unanimously picked to replace him. Jennifer of Ardchreag took over as exchequer
from Sof’ia. Also it was agreed to split the fight practice and A&S to two
separate nights again. Fight practice would continue to be held on Mondays,
while A&S would b e done in
members’ homes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays (which ever day best suited
that week’s host).
t t t t t
The Canton of Skeldergate
held a demonstration of the Society’s aims and skills at a place of learning
called Newtonbrook Secondary on the 12th day of May. Many gentles
from around the barony, including Eoforwic
and Caer Draeth, came to assist the Skeldergate rs
in their noble endeavour. From Ardchreag did come Axayacatl—who bore a striking
resemblance to Gunnar skald Thorvaldsson, called Truthsinger—who displayed
axes, knives and other implements of thrown weapons; Berend van der Eych,
Mahault van der Eych and Adelaide van der Eych who acted as greeters,
resplendent in gowns and cotes; Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Colyne Stewart, Þorfinna gráfeldr and Wat of Sarum who participated
on the list field showcasing the fine art of armoured combat.
t t t t t
While traveling through the Citie of Eoforwic on the 14th day of May, Their Excellencies
Septentria, Corwyn and Domhnail, Their Graces Berus
and Marion, and their traveling companions did chance to stop at a local tavern
named Cassidy's for refreshment. While there, they met Lord Sam Forkbeard, one
of those who had first settled upon the Cliffs in Ardchreag fourteen long years
ago. Sam had b een little seen for
many years, and Their Excellencies and Their Graces took delight in sharing
news from long ago and recent with him. Then, in a showing of Ardchreag
hospitality, Sam Forkbeard did cover all the company's expenses from his
jingling purse in the name of his old canton upon the cliffs.
t t t t t
On Sunday May 15, Lord Eirik Andersen did travel to the
royal Citie of Eoforwic to
participate in an armoured combat practice. While there marshals did take him
and have him battle with Bjarn styrmirson, and he did emerge from this battle
as Ardchreag’s newest authorized fighter.
t t t t t
Construction of a canton barrier for pas d’armes
challenges was begun by the Ardchreag Engineering Corps on May 18th.
Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Lord
Eirik Andersen , Laird Colyne
Stewart, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Lady Sof’ia Bardeva and Lady Tarian verch
Gadarn met at Drew’s End to work on the project.
t t t t t
On the 28th day of May, a grand tournament was
held in the lands of Septentria, within the canton of Caer Draeth. There, the
following good gentles did cross swords to determine who would be the new
Prince and Princess of Ealdormere:
Mistress Aelfwyn of Longwood for THL Hereward the Far
Dweller
THL Baldric Leeman of Newcastle Emlyn for Lady Brayla la
Vienette
Lord Corrig Bjornsson for THL Emer nic Aidan
Lord Derfel Malory for Lady Melisande du Rocher
Viscount Edward the Red for Viscountess Rylyn Buchanan
Sir Evander MacLachlan for THL Melusine de la Rose
THL Kayla the Cheerful for Sir Trumbrand the Wanderer
Lord Lothar the Gregarious for Lady Katherine of
Renfrewshire
Baron Phaidrig McNeil for Baroness Etaoin O'Fearghail
Count Sarnac Ba'adur for Countess Joleicia of Litchfield
Lord Tarquin Bjornsson for Lady Caitlin inghean Tomais ui
Dhuibihir
Master Trumbrand the Wanderer for THL Kayla the Cheerful
Baron Tynne Duair ap Beul for Baroness Tabitha Dearval
Lord Wat of Sarum for Lady Oksana z Moravy
Herr Wulfgang Donnerfaust for Lady Jean-Margaret Donnerfaust
The tournament was a best of five round robin, which lasted
for over five hours. In the end, Viscount Edward the Red (who was undefeated)
and Count Sarnac Ba’adur (who had only lost to Edward) faced each other in the
finals. The finals were to be three best of five rounds. The first round was
polearm, which was won by Edward. The second was sword and shield, which was
won by Sarnac. The final round was in great sword. Both Edward and Sarnac won
two fights in the third round, leaving the balance of the tournament in one
final clash of arms. Edward was to emerge victorious, and he and Rylyn were
recognized as Ealdormere’s new heirs.
Many from Ardchreag were in attendance to witness this grand
event, including: Count Sir Rory Cennedi ,
Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, THL
Rhys ap Bledri, THL Hereward the
Fardweller, Lord Vlad Blahuciak,
Lord Eirik Andersen , Lady Naja
Kesali Orekh, Lord Colyne Stewart, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Lord Wat of Sarum,
Lady Sof’ia Bardeva, Lady Oksana z Moravy, Lady Tarian verch Gadarn, Randy of Ardchreag, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr, Jennifer of Ardchreag and b aby Ethan. Tarian erected a shade tent and fed
all Chreaggers present with lamb stew and other victuals which were wolfed down
with much glee.
In the evening a brief court was held after a sumptuous
feast. At this court, Tarquin (who was caught napping) was awarded a Scarlet
Banner. Also, Baron Eric of Longacres retired from the position of Trillium
Herald, with Lord Percival deLaroque being sworn in as his successor.
t t t t t
June AS LX
The Canton of Petrea Thule again hosted Pikeman’s Pleasure,
this year upon the 4th of June. At this event Lord William Don ovan ,
formerly of Ardchreag, won an unbelted Royal Tournament, while Count Sir Rory Cennedi won the main Royal Tournament. Laird Colyne
Stewart successfully challenged into the White Bear
Fian —Septentria’s fighting order—defeating Baron Konrad Matthias
Jaegger von Dubrau. Cennedi also
challenged into the Fian, defeating Sir Evander MacLachlan. Baron Sir Siegfried founded his new house at this event,
taking THL Dafyyd ap Sion and Lord Eirik Andersen
as squires, and Lord Augustyn of Ely
as a man-at-arms. Lady Mahault van der Eych authorized in spear.
In all, there were thirteen from the Cliffs in attendance: Siegfried , Cennedi ,
Colyne, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Eirik, Snæbjörn,
Berend van der Eych, Mahault, Iolanda de Albornoz ,
THL Raffe Scholemaystre, Lord Vlad
Blahuciak, Lady Naja Kesali Orekh and Lady Sof’ia Bardeva, as well as former
members such as Lady Tatiiana , Lord Kenric Manning and Don ovan .
t t t t t
On the 6th of June the canton moved its fight
practices outside to a park in the lands of Pickering , called Alex Robertson.
t t t t t
The Canton of Skeldergate
held an event on June 11 in honour of one of its members who had passed away.
In the summer of AS XXXIV, Sir Thorbjorn Osis, while reigning as king of
Ealdormere, was returning from an out-of-kingdom event when he was involved in
a car accident that claimed his life (and the life of fellow passenger Lady
Bernadette of Lauren). To celebrate the life of this King of Ealdormere, this
former king of the Middle, this knight, the Canton of Skeldergate
held an Osis-style event. The planned activities for the day included (as the
event flyer stated): “FIGHTING – Also…watching fighting, talking about
fighting, fighting classes, heavy weapons authorizations, even more fighting…”
All of this fighting was to be followed b y
a dinner of wings and home brewed b eer.
Over fifty fighters came out to celebrate Osis’ life by
hitting each other with sticks, including Duke Brannos O'Iongardail and Duchess
Rebekah MacTiernan of the Middle Kingdom, and Duke Sir Rurik Longsword and his
squire Lord Stevan Ulfkellson from
Æthelmearc. From our own kingdom there were fighters present from every barony
and from the shires. From Ardchreag many came to toast Osis memory, including:
Count Sir Rory Cennedi , Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Lord Eirik
Andersen , Lady Isotta
Gianfgliazzi, Laird Colyne Stewart, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr and Lady Sof’ia
Bardeva.
Many tournaments were held, and true to their words there
was much fighting to be had. Once all were tired out from the heat and
humidity, those still present went upstairs to a banquet hall.
After toasting Osis’ memory Osis was further honoured b y the crowd engaging in one of his favourite
pastimes—the signing of bruises. Those who had particularly lovely bruises
stood up on chairs and showed them off, while the person who delivered them
signed them with a red felt tip pen. There were several bruises signed, perhaps
the most memorable being the bruise Baron Sir Siegfried
managed to give Duke Sir Brannos on his leg (as Duke Sir Berus
said, even gods sometimes get labeled). Siegfried
said he would only sign Brannos’ bruise, if His Grace would then sign the
bruise he had given to Siegfried in
return! So they both pulled up their shorts and signed each others’ leg.
A game of hide Siegfried ’s
keys soon ensued after he put them on a table to chase Sir Evander around the
room (a chase which ended with Evander tripping and sliding into a table and
chairs, luckily unhurt). Evander faced further mishap later as he walked past
Lady Mahault van der Eych who made a wide hand gesture that smacked him in a
most delicate area and caused him to collapse in a chair. Mahault continued her
accidental campaign against knightly genitalia later while standing in a circle
of people, bouncing an Indian rubber ball back and forth, when she managed to hit
Duke Sir Rurik in the crotch. (Rurik got her back later by managing to bounce
the ball against the back of her head while she was walking down the hall.)
t t t t t
On the 18th of June, the Barony of Ben Dunfirth
did once again hold Murder Melee, this year’s event marking the twenty-second occurrence.
From Ardchreag came Count Sir Rory Cennedi ,
Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn and
Lord Wat of Sarum, who fought on the team called ‘Baldric ’s
Cunning Plan’. With them fought Count Sir Aaron
Preslee Worganson, Viscount Sir Mordain Blackcloak ,
Baron Sir Menken Brechen , Sir
Evander MacLachlan, Lord Derfel
Mallory, THL Baldric Leeman of
Newcastle Emlyn, Lord Iohannes of Skraeling Althing, and Lord Benedict de
Charteris. Also from Ardchreag went Laird Colyne Stewart, who fought on the
Unbelted team, and Lady Sof’ia Bardeva. Baldric ’s
Cunning Plan went undefeated; the Unbelts
went 5 and 3.
t t t t t
On the 25th of June, under a blazing hot sun, the
Canton of Ardchreag hosted a demo in the lands known as Oshawa for a library called Northview. Though
helmed by members of Ardchreag, people came to help from the Barony of Ben
Dunfirth, the Canton of Skeldergate, the Canton of Eoforwic, the Shire of
Bastille du Lac and the Barony of Septentria at large. When you first entered
the site you were greeted by wonderful posters created by Lady Tarian verch
Gadarn, displaying various aspects of the Society, from fighting to garb. You
could then follow the wall of the library around the back to a treed park where
the library staff had erected a tent under which they sold provisions (and did
a very brisk business). Beside this tent was the Welcome to the SCA tent, where
Lady Isotta Gianfgliazzi, Lady Tarian verch Gadarn, her baby son Ethan, and
Jennifer of Ardchreag answered questions, handed out flyers and had a large
portfolio of Lord Eirik Andersen’s pictures to be looked at, as well as copies
of Ardchreag’s Newcomer’s Handbook. Across from them, Lord Hamish Gunn and his
young daughter Jordan spread out a blanket and laid out books about various
medieval subjects and a carved Galbraith horn.
Master Rufus of Sewell also spread a blanket on the ground,
where he displayed chain mail and weaving. Beside him was another table, at
which Colin of Greenhithe, Lady Naja Kesali Orekh and Lord Ludwig von Eisengrim
spread out chain mail, weaving and other crafts. Next to them Lord Normand
Hauberkker had a table also displaying chain mail, and other crafts. Lady
Eithne bjarnsdottir and Glynis of Ardchreag wandered the site, talking to
visitors.
The line of exhibits then turned away from the library wall,
to where Lady Unnr of Eoforwic and Lord James of Eoforwic had their blanket,
upon which they sat and played music or taught arts and sciences. Next to them
was another tent, under which Lord Serion d’Ivri and Lady Ayla d’Ivri stood
watch over several other arts and sciences displays, including illumination,
shoe making and naalbinding.
The final A&S tent was a large canvas shade, under which
Lord Berend van der Eych and Lady Mahault van der Eych had set up an armouring
shop, with pieces of armour on display, and the chance for visitors to actually
dish some armour.
To finish things off there was the Lists, upon which Lord
Iago della Zagatto, Lady Dagmar halvdan, Lady þorfinna gráfeldr, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr, Amelius
Claudius Rattanicus , Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, and Lord Thorolfr smithr battled throughout the day under the
eye of Laird Colyne Stewart, who acted as King of Arms and List Minister. The
fighters battled not just each other but the searing heat as they met over a
barricade painted with the knightly virtues, fought in a grand melee and worked
their way through two tournaments. After the barrier fighting, Colyne handed
out tokens to the crowd that they could present to their fighter of choice. The
most popular recipient was the dashing Sir Siegfried ,
with many young maidens giving him their tokens. In the final tournament of the
day, each fighter picked a member of the crowd to fight for. Sir Siegfried , having won, presented his inspiration
with three metal cups. Sir Siegfried
himself, as winner of the earlier tournament, was presented a wooden box from
the hands of about two dozen eager youngsters.
Thanks went out to Naja, Tarian and Colyne for donating the
tokens and prizes. Many of the fighters distributed the tokens they had won
amongst the attendees, and at least one young girl was heard to say she needed
a chain for it because she would wear it forever.
In between battles, dances were had in the Lists, and the
young ones got to fight with boffer swords and talk to the fighters with awed
looks in their faces.
Estimates placed the crowd at about two hundred people.
t t t t t
July AS LX
Every summer for the past twelve years, the Canton of
Ardchreag has hosted an event on the Canada Day long weekend. Originally, it
was called Septentrian War Practice, named after the barony Ardchreag resides
in. Then, when Ealdormere was formed, the name was changed to Ealdormere War
Practice (perhaps better known as EWP). This year the event evolved yet again.
As Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr put it, the past twelve years were practice—this
year, it was war!
The theme for the first War of the Trillium (or Trillium
War, as most people ended up calling it) was early Period versus Late Period.
To captain the Early Period, the canton contracted Mistress Ælfwyn of Longwood.
To captain the Late Period, the canton asked Sir Edward the Red. However,
Edward had to withdraw as he had become the Crown Prince. To replace him
stepped forward Baron Konrad Mattias Jaegger von Dubrau, a most worthy gentle
indeed.
To win the War, each captain had to earn war points, which
were to be awarded in a number of ways. Each captain was given six war points
that they could hand out as they saw fit, in the hopes that the person they
gave the point too would go to the gate and allocate the point to their side.
Points were also awarded for archery, children’s activities, the mead
competition, fencing and so forth. Of course, both Periods also faced off in
many armoured combat battles, which were each worth between 7 and 10 war
points.
Ælfwyn, who arrived on site early, began her campaign
quickly, and soon promotional posters bearing legends such as “Vote Often! Vote
Ælfwyn!” and “If there is 4 digits in the date, it’s Late!” began to appear all
over the event site.
The summer event had moved back to Ardchreag’s traditional
site, after being held on a farm for the past two years. For those who have
never been there, you enter the site by driving for about five minutes down a
winding tree shrouded road, emerging onto a laneway. To the right is a picnic
shelter, which Lady Tarian verch Gadarn and I had transformed into the gate,
complete with blowing banners and a fan for those suffering from the heat.
Straight ahead there were outhouses, beside which THL Garwig der Waffenschmidt,
had once again erected the Mad Saxon Showers. To the left was a line of trees. If
you follow the laneway, it turns left and takes you past a large tree dotted
field where the various encampments sprung up. At the end of the laneway are
two more outhouses, the A&S tent and another picnic shelter, overlooking a
second field. This field is split between archery, thrown weapons, fencing and
armoured combat.
Thursday
A game of soccer, originally organized as a children’s
activity, erupted in the space between the De Taahe and Petrea Thule
encampments, which resulted in several war points being allocated to Ælfwyn,
who had captained one of the teams.
The Silver Wheel Inn, operated b y
House Teach Cairdeas, was again in operation this year. However, this year they
did not just offer coffee and morning snacks, but prepared full fledged b reakfasts consisting of bacon, eggs, ham,
pancakes and so on. The McPercy’s were especially popular, and the hospitable
staff of the Wheel had to make many runs into town for fresh supplies.
The Squires’ Lounge (a large canvas shade tent that in a
previous life had b een Baron Richard
Larmer’s pavilion) was erected in the De Taahe encampment. Over the weekend
many people from all over the event site would sit for a short spell, or many
hours, under its red-trimmed roof. That night was especially memorable as it saw
Lady Mahault van der Eych demonstrate control holds on Lord Tarquin Bjornnson.
Friday
The Late and Early Period armoured fighters met in the woods
for a fierce battle that saw the Early Period victorious. They then moved to
the battle field, where the Late Period won the Bridge Battles.
Archery, fencing, thrown weapons, A&S, children’s activities and youth combat were in full swing. A children’s garb swap was organized by Lady Lassarfhina Inghean Uilleag.
At seven o’clock ,
the Iron(age) Chef challenge was met by many in the A&S tent.
That evening many things were happening, and as such the
armoured combat Torchlight Tourney was cancelled. However, folks consoled
themselves by partaking in the numerous other night time activities.
Baron Konrad had b een
taken by Their Majesties and the Order of Chivalry from his camp, and placed in
a pavilion on the battle field to sit his vigil. For it was Their will that he
become a knight. Many stood in line for long periods of time to be able to
speak with Konrad on this special night. He did not seek his bed until 5:30 in the morning.
The archers got to enjoy one of Lord Tosh’s night time
shoots, where glow sticks are affixed to arrows and targets. This gave those
waiting to see Konrad something to watch as glowing arrows sped through the
night towards illumined targets.
While her lord was away contemplating the virtues, Baroness
Alyce de Sheppey held a Ladies’ Bacchanalia in her camp which was attended by
many, including male attendants in togas, and at least one shaggy satyr.
Saturday
On Saturday morning, Lady Tarian organized a Flea Market and
Pillage along Merchants’ Row. People were encouraged to bring items they wished
to relocate to the homes of others and spread them out on blankets. At the end
of the market, anything not sold, but that the owner did not want to take home,
could be left behind. When “Pillage!” was called, it was a free-for-all, first
come first served, grabbing of goodies.
At the same time, some hound coursing was being conducted on
the battle field.
Around eleven
o’clock , Their Majesties called for a court on the battle field.
They took back Their writ from Sir Edward, naming him Their general, as he now
had other duties as Their heir. As Their new general, they called on Baron
Konrad. Sir Bealdgar Thorbeornsson, then reiterated his boon, asking that
Konrad be knighted, and the good baron was again called before Their Majesties.
He was adorned with his symbols of rank and estate in an emotional court. When
the king struck the buffet—the last blow Konrad was to take unanswered—the blow
was so mighty that it cracked one of Konrad’s ribs! When the ceremony was over
there was much rejoicing, for Konrad is a man well loved by the people of the
kingdom.
Around noon
the armoured combat began again, with two Royal Tournaments. This was followed b y an Unbelts Practice were the poor unbelts faced
a team made almost completely of knights and masters-of-arms. It was
challenging fighting, to say the least!
After a brief rest two picnic tables were pulled onto the
field to form a gate. The Early Period was then given a banner to protect, and
the Late Period had to steal it. You could not fight over the tables, only
between them. The Early Period won this first encounter very convincingly
(though it must be pointed out that they also had a significantly larger force
than the poor belaboured Late Period fighters). The Late Period then
successfully protected their banner, winning the second
b out. The banner was then removed from play, and the fighters
went down to a last man standing scenario for the third
b out.
A series of field b attles
between the Late and Early Periods were then fought.
Sir Nigel MacFarlane’s planned Anvil of Virtue 3-man melee
3-hour resurrection tournament was cancelled due to lack of time.
Archery, fencing, thrown weapons, A&S, children’s
activities and youth combat were again going strong.
After everyone who had engaged in martial activities had a
chance to cool down and change, Their Majesties Edouard and Genevieve held
court in the battle field shelter. Laird Colyne Stewart was called b efore Their Excellencies Septentria and introduced
as their new seneschal. Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr was then called into court and
given an Award of the Golden Bear for her A&S endeavours.
When Their Excellencies Septentria were done, Their
Majesties resumed Their court. Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr received his Award of
Arms, and Þorfinna her Award of the Maiden’s Heart. Lady Lassarfhina’s
illumination skills were recognized with an Award of the Orion, and Her Grace,
Duchess Marion FitzWilliam was placed on vigil for the Order of the Pelican.
Following court there was held the Fourth Annual Lord Ulrich
von der See Memorial Ealdormerean Brewing Competition, which saw many sitting
under the A&S tent getting (as Uncle J would say) “pleasantly blind.” Lady
Marian Golightly won the grand prize for her cordials and that TLH Corrig
McKail won the mead category.
This year the Galbraith party was held on the battle field
and was a great success. As in years past, mead flowed like water, as did b eer left over from the Osis Memorial Fighting Day
event. A bardic circle sprung up around the fire and Eric the Monkey and Colyne
ran the traditional body toss game. This year the entrants had to throw an
effigy of Her Grace Marion, holding a black cat in her hands (dubbed the
Cat-a-pult). The winner of the men’s throw was Lord Augustyn
of Ely (with a throw of 48’10”) and the winner of the women’s
throw was a Lady Rhiannon (with a throw somewhere around 25’). Baroness Alyce got
a special prize for throwing exactly 13’ (as it was House Galbraith’s 13th
birthday).
Thirteen prize bags had been made up, and were handed out to
those who were the first to bring certain items to the Galbraiths. Bjarn won a
bag for bringing Lady Ceridwyn y Anghofidig a Buddha, which entailed him
ripping off his shirt and taking a contemplative pose at her feet. He later
came stomping over wearing a snood from his gift bag asking what the hell he
was supposed to do with it and the comb it had come with! (Bjarn is almost, if
not completely, bald.)
The winner of the War was announced at the party, and it was
no surprise that the Early Period carried the day. If only the Late Period
Captain hadn’t got to site so, well, late…
The party went on for several hours, and many folk were
entertained b y the various uses of
chocolate.
Sunday
Sunday began the long slow process of clean up. The last of the
War of the Trillium shirts (designed b y
Lady Tarian verch Gadarn ) sold out.
The Silver Wheel pumped coffee into tired travelers before they left site.
Ardchreaggers and friends scoured the site for garbage and to check on fire
pits.
t t t t t
On Monday July 25, a face from the past made an appearance
at the Ardchreag fight practice. Lord Ceallac cu Meallian, one of the first
members of the White Bear Fian and old time Chreagger, briefly stopped by. He
was on a quest for Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, who unfortunately was not in
attendance that night as he had been wounded on the weekend battling with a
great aquatic mammal in Star Leaf’s Gate.
t t t t t
August XL
Between August 5 and August 21, the Kingdom of AEthelmearc
once again played host to the Pennsic War. This year Ealdormere fought for the
Dragon of the Middle Kingdom, and many from Ardchreag marched south to War,
including: Lord Berend van der Eych, Laird Colyne Stewart, Lord Eirik Andersen,
Drottin Gunnarr Truthsinger, Lady Isotta Gianfgliazzi, Lady Mahault van der
Eych, Mistress Marian of Heatherdale, Lady Naja Kesali Orekhov, Lord Piero di
Paxiti da Vincenza, THL Rhys ap Bledri, Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Lady
Þorfinna gráfeldr, Lord Volodymyr Blahuciak and Lord Wat of Sarum. Only Marian
and Piero actually camped in the Ardchreag encampment, which had one again
shrunk as neighbouring Never-Never
Land grew bigger.
On
Sunday the 14th, after Opening Ceremonies, the Unbelted tourney was
held, with six kingdoms represented. Ealdormere’s team consisted of: AElfwyn, THL
Baldric Leeman of Newcastle Emlyn, Laird
Colyne Stewart, THL Corrig McKail, Baroness Domhnail Galbraith, THL Etain au
Naval, THL Hereward the Fardweller, Lord Hugh de Rose, Lord Ioannes, THL Kaylah
the Cheerful, Lord Lothar the Gregarious, Lord Naga-san, Lord Tarquin
Bjornnson, Lord Tiberius of Warwickshire, Lord Tormod of Kirk Andreas (who
unfortunately could not make the event), Baron Tynne Duair ap Beul, Lord Ulvar van der Nederlanden, Lord Volodymyr ‘Vlad ’ Blahuciak, and Lord Wat of Sarum.
Ealdormere’s
team fought very well, but only went 1-4. Unfortunately they fought too much
like the polite Ealdormereans that they were, assuming people were dead when they
hit them, and not swinging again to make sure. This meant that they would hit
someone, and move away looking for a new target. A lot of time though, the
people they hit did not think the blow was hard enough, and hit back, killing
Ealdormere’s Unbelts. Live and learn. When the tourney was over His Majesty
Edouard praised the team’s sportsmanship and execution.
Later that day, Duke Sir Barak Hasdrubal won the Graybeard
Tourney (for fighters over 50 years old) and THL Kaylah the Cheerful won the
Iron Rose Tourney (for female fighters). Amelius Claudius Rattanicus of Bastille du Lac won the Known World
Novice Tourney (for fighters with less than two year’s experience).
Monday morning saw the Bridge Battle held. Ealdormere was
asked to lead the forces on the bridge farthest from the castle. In the first
run through the Unbelts fought as a unit and were placed in the front lines. They
were facing the Western Alliance which
included something like seven spear wielding kings and various knights. In this
run through the East pulled right off the bridge and tried to create a killing
pocket but Ealdormere would not be baited. In the last minute the East made a
push but they were held off.
Now perhaps is a good time to make brief mention of the
numbers. The Midlands forces vastly out
numbered the East, so it is no surprise that the Middle consistently did well
during the War. Kudos must be given to the hardy fighters of the East and their
allies who continued to come out battle after battle, day after day, continuing
the fight even after the War had b een
lost. And they did it with smiles on their faces.
In the second b attle
De Taahe was put in the front line, with Colyne, Eirik, Mahault, Rhys, Siegfried , Þorfinna, Vlad
and Wat amongst them. This time the East pressed harder faster but was still
held off the half way point. In the third b attle
they came out hard and pushed Ealdormere almost right off the bridge, but Ealdormere
pushed b ack and the East found
itself caught in a vise as other Midland forces broke through another bridge
and came up behind them. Though the official bridge battles were then over, the
Western Alliance asked Ealdormere to continue
fighting, as they had five people on their team who had come from Japan for the
event, and they were trying to get in as much fighting as they could. Ealdormere
agreed, and most of her fighters stayed out to run through two more bridge
battles. In both of these the Western Alliance
emerged victorious.
That night was Duchess Marion FitzWilliams’ vigil in the
House Galbraith/Hrogn camp.
During the night it poured rain, and the dawn of the Woods
Battle was damp. The Middle won the Woods, and Ealdormere fought extremely
well. So well in fact that later in court, His Majesty had the army placed on
the Scroll of Honour for their actions in the Woods.
That night there was a traveling wine and cheese party in
honour of Marion ’s
imminent elevation.
Wednesday saw the Mountain Pass Battle. The field had three
passes marked out on it, with siege weapons set up in the back fields.
Ealdormere was to form a column and sweep up the right pass and harry the back
field. Ealdormere’s forces easily broke through the line (again, superior
numbers) and took out much of their siege weaponry. the Ealdormere tried to
leave at least fifty feet of space between our line and the rez point so the
East could build up forces to fight with. Ealdormere did not want to just push
them right off the field. There would b e
no honour (or fun) in that for either side. Ealdormere and its Mid Realm allies
periodically threw off assaults or sent out skirmishers, but there was still
very little fighting. Some of the East fighters then began calling out for
singles, and Colyne fought with Lord Boldo, which resulted in double kill.
Septentrian court was held that evening. Among those
honoured were Lord Hamish Gunn and
Lady Ceridwyn y Anghofidig, who were given Bear’s Hearts. Afterward Their
Excellencies treated all present to a barbeque.
Berend, who had to wear an eye patch all War due to eye
surgery, was seen walking through Midnight Madness wearing a second eye patch
over his good eye (with a small hole so he could see) and a flamboyant pirate’s
hat. He was introduced as Pimp Daddy Yar, but everyone ended up calling him the
Blind Pirate. We then wondered who would win in a fight: the Blind Pirate or
the Visible Ninja that had been sighted earlier in the week.
The Causeway Battle was held Thursday morning. The Middle
started inside the castle, while the East had to walk up a causeway (like a
wide bridge) and then fan out to attack the three gates). The attackers got
unlimited resurrections, while the defenders got none. It was a little boring
inside, as there was not much fighting, but it was great fun watching ballista
bolts fly overhead to land outside, and b locking
arrows and dodging ballista bolts coming in. Baron Richard
Larmer was killed b y
an arrow about two minutes into the battle. He said, “I’m dead,” and walked off
the field. (Later, he was presented with the arrow that had killed him by a
friend, and he tracked down the archer and gave him a gift of beer.) When we
finally faced the push from the East a hold was called, and Þorfinna found
herself completely surrounded b y
grinning Easterners. Cadogan of Petrea Thule caught a ballista seconds before
he would have been able to swing a sword, saving Tiberius
and Colyne from getting hit with the missile instead. The gate Ealdormere helped b olster was the last gate to fall.
The Middle then mounted an assault and the East defended.
Ealdormere’s general, Baron Sir Konrad Matthias Jaeger von Dubrau, told his
forces to go up the causeway and assault the east gate. Holds were frequently
called as the bodies piled up rapidly at the gates. During the holds, the heads
of Easterners would pop over the walls, and b oth
sides would trade witticisms. The press of bodies was awful. The people
fighting at the front were pushing backwards on those behind them so they had
room, while people behind were pushing forward yelling, “Advance!” Eventually
the castle fell and the Mid had won the War Point.
Wat then fought in the Heroic Champions battle fought along
with Sir Evander MacLachlan, Duke Sir Roak of Ealdormere, Master Trumbrand the
Wanderer and Baldric representing
Ealdormere. Duke Sir Barak Hasdrubal had also been selected for the team, but
as the East had trouble meeting the numbers, he unfortunately did not get to
actually fight. The battle was a 21 minute resurrection battle. Every seven
minutes a hold would b e called, and
whichever side had more people close to two hay bails set on the field would
get a point. The Middle won 4 points to 2.
Kingdom Court was held that evening in the Barn. Hereward
was called b efore Their Majesties as
Master Andrixos Seljukroctonis, OL, OP, Huscarl of Calontir, entered and began
chanting in Latin. To great applause, Hereward was made a Court Baron. Duchess
Marion was then called forward and she was elevated to the Order of the Pelican
in a short, elegant ceremony. The King and Queen of the Middle then came into
Court and presented Ealdormere with many gifts, most striking of which was a beautiful
War banner.
That night House No House
hosted the Booze and Smores party in their encampment.
The last large war point battle was the Field Battle, held
on Friday. In the third b attle, all
the Chivalry on the Middle’s side fought as one massed unit. From accounts I
heard afterwards His Majesty Edouard was the first member of the Chivalry to
smash into the enemy forces.
t t t t t
Around this time both Naja and Sof’ia departed for the Royal
Citie of Eoforwic.
t t t t t
September AS XL
The Canton of Flaming Sky held it’s second tournament at
Baron’s Howe between September 2nd and 5th. Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Thane Hereward
the Fardweller, THL Rhys ap Bledri, Lord Eirik
Andersen , Laird Colyne Stewart and Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr
attended.
On the Friday night they learned why the locals called their
land Flaming Sky. For the sky was aflame with flickering green lights that
flowed across the horizon and left everyone in awe of nature’s majesty.
Colyne and Þorfinna later walked over to the Calontir
Embassy. As they approached Thane Hereward the Fardweller called them in.
Colyne was then reunited with the evil bartender from the Calontir party at
Pennsic (whose name is the Honorable Lord Jack Banyard). As well they were
introduced to Sir Kirk fitz David and Lady Cara. Lord Raudr
Ottarson, whom they had met at a previous Bonfield event was also there. They
told them that Jack had just read Colyne’s short history of Pennsic XXXIV, and Colyne
was then told that Sir Vitus had left a remark regarding him on a spontaneous
illumination of himself from that same Pennsic in Lord Eirik’s ethereal
collection. Apparently Vitus had said that Colyne looked like “a gallant and
preaux squire.” Colyne was to take much ribbing over this comment during the
course of the weekend.
The next morning the woods battle was fought, but a deluge
of rain cancelled the fort battle. Still, some hardy equestrian riders tromped
into the bowl to ride, and soaked archers shot at the range.
That night Baroness Eleanor Cadfan, Her Excellency Skrael,
held a baronial court within the mead hall. Mistress Ragni Dzintari of
Amberhall presented Her Excellency with a live unfettered cock. After the court
a blazing bonfire was lit and people stood and sat around it telling tales and
singing songs.
Sunday began cold b ut
soon warmed up just in time for fighting. The first Royal Tournament was won by
Siegfried , while the second Unbelted
Tournament was won by Lord Raudr. Since Colyne was watching, and not fighting
(because his wrists had swollen over night), he got a lot of “gallant and
preaux” cat calls. Colyne may not have been able to fight, but his good cousin
Richard Stewart got into action, as did Eirik’s cousin Travis Andersen.
After the Royal Tournaments the fighters partook in
challenges at the barrier and in a grand melee. The Captains were Sir Nigel
MacFarlane and Lord Raudr, and when they finally paused to breath, the Captains
each chose one fighter from the opposing side who had inspired and impressed
them that day. Ruadr chose THL Wilfred of Sweflingham, and Nigel chose THL Phelan
Gann.
There then followed two run-throughs of Mordain’s Rings. The
marshals stood in a circle upon the field while around the circle are
three rings; all fighters stood in the first ring. If you lost a fight you had
to move into the next ring until you were out all together. You can also
be pushed out of a ring. Treachery was the name of the game in the ring as
alliances sprang up and were broken continuously. The prize: three beers for
the holder of the first ring, two beers for holding the second and one for the
third. There were two runnings of the rings, the first of which was won by Siegfried by clearing the rings. In the second,
Tiberius was in the middle ring, Sir Nigel was in the second and Sir Siegfried was in the third. Sir Nigel tried to
persuade Tiberius—who had just fought Nigel to put him in the second ring in
the first place—to come out and fight him. Tiberius, saying he was not a
selfish man and that he was happy with his three beers, stayed put. So Nigel
went out to the third ring and was knocked out Siegfried .
t t t t t
On September 10th, Lord Wat of Sarum and Lady
Oksana z Moravy were wed. Many folk from Ardchreag did attend, along with
friends from Petrea Thule and Skeldergate .
t t t t t
September 24th say the Investiture of Edward the Red and Rylyn Buchanan as the King and
Queen of Ealdormere. Baron Sir Siegfried
and Lord Eirik Andersen attended, and Siegfried
took Amelius Claudius Rattanicus of
Bastille du Lac as a man-at-arms.
t t t t t
October AS XL
On the first day of October the Shire of Bastille du Lac
held A Day of Piracy IV. It was attended b y
Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn (the
constable of Ardchreag), THL Raffe Scholemaystre and three pirates who bore
striking resemblances to Lord Eirik Andersen ,
Laird Colyne Stewart and Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr.
From the Letters of Cap’n Bloodfox
I think the last the world had
heard o’ me and me mates was when I was captured b y
them archers o’ Thule
last year. Me woman, Cap’n Widow, led them right to me in a bid for her own
freedom. At first I was sore at her, but when she later slunk into the gaol and
set me and the lads free, well, I just had to forgive her.
That Constable o’ Bastille—name o’
Evander—was after us in moments and we were forced to sail south for a year to
avoid him and the ships of Her Majesty’s navy. Plundering the southron kingdoms
is fun and all, but home is where the heart is. As soon as we could, we sets
sail for the northlands again.
As we’re on our way homeward we
hears that the Shire o’ Bastille du Lac is holding an event, a jaunty party inland,
where they figure privateers will let them be. I’m not a man to let an
opportunity for revenge pass me by, so’s I tell me Navigator Mr. Andersen to
plot a course.
You remember Mr. Andersen I trust?
This Norwegian fella who tells me he’s a Viking? Yar, that’s the bloke. Well,
he manages to run the Interceptor aground. We beached, well and good. I
almost string him up then and there, but I can be a merciful fellow and I only
cut off a digit or two. The Clever Wife—me woman’s ship—weighs anchor
without incident o’ course.
Gar.
So I leaves some men to try and get
me ship back in the blue, and the rest start creeping through the trees towards
the lodge where this here gathering is supposed to be happening.
That Constable and the shire’s
seneschal—Edward Fuchyn—must o’ had
scouts out in the woods, for they found out we were coming. Worried for the
safety of his people, Fuchyn knows he needs to call fer some help, but who to
call? If he calls for help to Septentria to the west, or to Skraeling Althing
to the east, whose to say they’ll leave having gained a foothold in his shire?
So he does the only thing he can think of, and that is to send messengers to
both o’ them baronies begging for aid.
Now me men managed to intercept
most o’ them messengers heading west, and Widow took most o’ them heading east,
but some must have managed to slip through. For when we finally reached the
outskirts o’ the lodge what do we see but representatives o’ both them
baronies.
Bah, we thinks. We just sailed and
then walked all this way. Are we gonna be run off now? By gar we’d show them
what for!
So me woman and me, draped in our
flags, cutlasses drawn, stride outta the trees. Soon we have us a three way
showdown with the forces o’Skrael, and Septentria and our crews facing off.
Now That Constable wanted to avoid b loodshed it seems, so he asked us all to sheath
our weapons and take part in a contest. Out on the water he’s got a boat at the
end of the pier, and he wants us all to take turns fighting on it. Each person
has got to face the other fifteen fighters once, to see who the best fighter of
the day is. Not one to back down from a challenge we and our crew say we’re in.
At the same time, on another pier, some more o’ the three groups fence with blades long and short. Lady Rusalka o’ the Galbraiths in fine pirate fashions crossed b lades with THL Wilhelm von Pottruff and THL Cristabel Wensleydale of Skraeling, and Lord Robert o’Septentria.
Some o’ our forces were taken through the woods by THL Dafydd ap Sion and Lord Augustyn o’ Ely to shoot at roving targets. (Both Thulish archers, ar!) I did not have a change to wander the course meself, but I did hear that there were targets representing both Baron Corwyn o’ Septentria and Baron Menken o’ Skrael. (Me thinks from reports that Menken had a few more holes in him than Corwyn did.) Also, several folks threw axes and knives at butts on another range.
But back to the boat. Since each fighter present had to battle fifteen times it was a long way to go to the final. Some of the more memorable incidents included: me lady Widow knocking a parrot of the helm o’ Lord Derfel Mallory; a clankety German pirate in full metal armour who fought on the tiny dingy with a harpoon (and who fell over board at least once); and my own victory over the Constable o’Ardchreag. When all was said and done I had managed to send nine down to Davy Jones’ Locker, having been sent down meself six times.
In the end a parrot-less Lord Derfel faced off with another Constable, name o’ Roak who came from the east. In a well fought battle Derfel took the day. Derfel presented his parrot to Widow, and it was discovered that the poor birdie had lost his beak in the battles. He was dubbed Peckerless Pete, and plans were drawn to replace his beak with a hook.
With a maniacal glint in his eyes, that Constable Evander o’ Bastille draws five circles on the ground and in each circle he places some swag, ranging in size from a small brown bag to a large wooden box. What he wants is for each barony to take a turn coming ashore in the boat and getting the swag into the boat while the other barony defends the goods. You could only carry the booty if you wore a full gauntlet, and either side could handle it. If you got yerself killed you had to run back to yer side to resurrect and rejoin the fray.
So Septentria is set to defend
first, and I manage to sidle into that side fighting alongside Her Excellency
Domhnail Galbraith, Mr. Tibs, Argyle o’ Bastille and Constable Siegfried Brandbeorn. His Excellency Menken secures
the arms of Constable Roak, Lady Jocea, Lord Derfel
and a bloke whose name I never did catch. Everyone else was apparently too worn
out from the round robin to participate.
So Skrael comes off the boat and we
all fight like madmen, and let me tell you that was one tiring ordeal! People
were legged and left to crawl about on their knees until finally one of their
own teammates took pity and killed them so they could resurrect and b e more effective. Every time a raider bent down
to pick up a piece o’ swag, he was clocked b y
a defender. In the end Roak, on his knees, was backing up like a scuttling crab
dragging a box after him. That Constable o’ Bastille declares that Skrael’s
time was 5 minutes and 19 seconds and we all falls over out o’ breath.
Evander—the bastard—wants to send us back in after five minutes, but we manage
to convince him that ten would b e
better.
Then Septentria is placed in the
boat, and we has to run ashore and grab the booty. We did well off the bat, and
it all came down to this here little brown bag that kept sliding out o’ our
carriers’ hands. Roak then manages to grab the bag and he retreats with it to
the furthest circle from the boat, at which point we had exceeded Skrael’s time
so we stopped the pillage o’ the village.
I then dropped me kit off with the
lads and suited up in me finest apparel: brown pants, red and white striped
socks, red sash, brown belt, black baldric, white shirt and purple and red
velvet greatcoat. A hat with a black and a red feather sat atop me head. Widow
dressed herself up as well: gold hoop earrings, black skirt, white blouse,
black bodice, green jacket, a brown hat with white and
b lack feathers, and a gold cross sitting upon her bosom.
We and the other lads and ladies of
our crews walked about with impunity, and no force o’ Septentria, nor force o’
the Skrael tried to arrest us. Likely that was because That Constable’s
truce was still going, but I prefer to think it was our bloody reputation. Yar.
As we sauntered about we made a few
small ‘acquisitions’ so the day was not a complete loss. In fact, though we
were going to leave to see my brother Shane o’ the Fish, we received a missive
that he could not make the rendezvous. As such we were invited to stay and the
Baroness o’ Septentria herself gave us coin to reserve a seat for supper.
The tables for feast were all
decorated with pirate flags crafted b y
the young’ uns who had b een present
throughout the day, and mighty fine flags they were too! Dinner was delicious
(and well it should b e what with
folk like Lady Melusine de la Rose in the kitchen). It was also a riotous
affair, with gifts of rum being passed out by both sets of Excellencies. In the
spirit of things I grabbed me a woman passing by—her name was Lady Safrida
Axehammer—and I abducted her to the next room where I planned to get to know
her better. Unfortunately for me I suffered a case of ‘low tide’. As we walked b ack into the main hall I tells her, “Yar, I swear
baby, that’s never happened to me before,” to which she replies, “That’s what
they all say.”
Now this lady is the lady o’ Dafydd
ap Sion, who came and clamped a large hand on me shoulder and told me to watch
meself. Now, trying to protect me honour (har, what honour?) the lady had not
told him about me ‘lowered sails’, so’s I spill the beans and it saves me life
I’m sure. Mr. Andersen, who looks mightily like Dafydd’s squire brother,
watched the whole thing from beginning to end. Dafydd, thinking his
squire-brother had just stood b y and
watched a pirate abduct his lady, had almost smashed poor Mr. Andersen to bits
before his true identity was made known. Gar, I was looking forward to seeing a
good thrashing. (One that didn’t involve me, at any rate.)
The food, as I believe I’ve said,
was excellent. We feasted on bread with honey butter, greens, mushroom and b arley soup, spinach quiche, mushroom and cheese
tart, ham with honey mustard sauce, lamb, mussels and a type o’ cheese cake
glazed in honey. We was all quite full to burstin’.
After dinner a bonfire was lit
outside, while some folk danced in a side room. Downstairs a pirate who bore a
striking resemblance to Derfel sang
for the little ‘uns and later for us big folk too. A local man, who had come to
witness the happenings o’ the day for a local broadsheet, played a fiddle on
the front steps. It was a lovely, relaxing way to while away the evening. THL Baldric (o’ the really long last name) asked us to
come by his home for drinks as he was hosting a party, but we had a long walk
back to ships so set off into the trees, followed b y
our crews.
It was then that I realized that we
had spent more than we had earned on this expedition, and when we got back to
our landing I found me ship still beached. And I cursed the gods o’ the sea and
swore that I would have my revenge!
One o’ these days.
t t t t t
The 3rd day of October saw Ardchreag take up
residence in their new meeting space, Lincoln Keep. Attending the first joint
meeting/fight practice were Count Sir Rory Cennedi ,
the Honourable Baron Richard Larmer, Lord Eirik
Andersen , Laird Colyne Stewart and Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr.
t t t t t
On the 15th, Ealdormere saw its new heirs chosen:
Count Aaron and Countess Rusti que. Several from the Cliffs were present,
including Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn and Lord Eirik Andersen .
THL Hereward the Far-dweller fought for Mistress AElfwyn
of Longwood.
t t t t t
On October 24, the Scola Durus Maleus visited
Ardchreag’s fight practice. Lord Derfel
Mallory, the preceptor of the Schola, arranged for Sir Cennedi
to teach a class on hitting with power. The practice was well attended, and
guests came from Petrea Thule and Bastille du Lac. After the practice most of
the attendees retired to Sir Casey’s Inn for
food and drink.
t t t t t
On Wednesday October 26th, Lord Berend van der
Eych, Lady Mahault van der Eych and Lady Tarian verch
Gadarn traveled to the northern reaches of Ardchreag (the
lands mundanely known as Markham) to teach the children at the Woodbourne
Public School about the middle ages.
t t t t t
November AS XL
On Nov 5, the City of Eoforwic
again hosted the Feast of the Bear in Graf Hugh’s Castle. Numerous events
occurred, including: Baroness Adrielle
Kerrec took her first apprentice, Lady Wencenedl of Rokseberg; Lord Tormod of
Kirk Andreas successfully entered the White Bear Fian ;
Lord Gareth of Eoforwic was named
Baronial Rapier Champion, Edward
Fuchyn of Bastille du Lac received his Award of Arms; and Amelius Claudius Rattanicus of Bastille du Lac received his Award of
Arms. The Cantons of Septentria presented Their Excellencies with taxes, being
at least the Baron’s weight in dried goods for the hungry (280 pounds).
Septentria actually raised 4000 pounds of food.
t t t t t
The Canton of Greyfells once again hosted the Feast of
the Hare on November 12. At this event Count Sir Rory Cennedi
took on Lord Wat of Sarum as a squire. Also, Lord Eirik
Andersen was presented with an Order of the Friends of the
Hare for his work in documenting the history of Ealdormere through pictures.
(Lord Alexander Gladstone was likewise honoured.) Both Eirik and Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn were involved in a wain
accident on their way to the event. Luckily no one was hurt. Other Chreaggers
in attendance included: Thegn Hereward
the Far-dweller, THL Rhys ap Bledri, Laird Colyne Stewart, and Lady Þorfinna
gráfeldr.
t t t t t
The Barony of Rising Waters invested a new Baron and
Baroness on November 26. Aeneas Oakhammer
and Aibhilin fra Skye were elevated to the High Seats of the Barony.
t t t t t
December AS XL
At this time Lord William Donovan
moved b ack from the lands of the
southron, to the Cliffside estates of Ardchreag. For a time he acted as the
Barony of roaring Wastes baronial ambassador.
t t t t t
During this month Mahault van der Eych once again became
the canton’s exchequer.
t t t t t
Also at this time Joe of Ardchreag and Anna of Ardchreag
were first seen.
t t t t t
On the 12th day of December, the Lord and Lady
of Havencroft opened the doors of their manse to host the canton’s annual
wassail. Since the Lincoln Keep was unavailable, advantage was taken of this
night to also host the canton’s 12th Night (meaning they would not
have to loose a night in January when the keep would
b e available for fighting).
In attendance were: Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, THL Volodymyr ‘Vlad ’
Blahuciak, Lord Eirik Andersen, Laird Colyne Stewart, Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr,
Lord Berend van der Eych, Lady Mahault van der Eych, Lord Wat of Sarum, Lord
William Donovan , Lady Oksana z
Moravy, Lady Tarian verch Gadarn, Lord Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr, Adelaide van der
Eych, Marie de Chat Noir, Randy of
Ardchreag, Jennifer of Ardchreag, baby Ethan, Drew, Joe of Ardchreag and Anna
of Ardchreag.
One of the most sought after gifts was the hide of a deer.
t t t t t
The 19th of December saw the holding of the
first Ardchreag Yuletide Tournament (also called the Chreagger Cliffside
Challenge). Ardchreag’s bailiff—Laird Colyne Stewart—sent out a call to all
fighters who would attend, to come to the Lincoln Keep and participate in a
series of tournaments, to see who would b e
awarded the Yuletide Chalice. One point would b e
awarded to a participant for taking part in a tournament, while bonus points
would b e awarded for placing first
or second in each tourney.
Ardchreag fielded only three fighters that night, due to
illness, injury and work. They were Baron Sir Siegfried
Brandbeorn, Lord Wat of Sarum and Lord Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr. Sir Nigel
MacFarlane came down from Petrea Thule, while the Bastille Boys were out in
force (Sir Evander, Lord Amelius Claudius Rattanicus ,
Lord Edward Fuchyn, Argyle and
Cameron).
Also attending—though not fighting—were Colyne, Lord Eirik Andersen , Lady Þorfinna gráfeldr, Lady Oksana
z Moravy, Lady Tarian verch Gadarn, and newcomers Joe and Anna. Several local
mundanes also stopped b y to watch
the fighting.
The first tournament was single elimination, with single
sword to three counted b lows. In the
finals, Sir Nigel emerged victorious over Edward .
This was followed b y
a warlord tournament where Edward ’s
warband defeated Rattanicus ’ team.
Next was a double elimination tournament, where Sir Siegfried beat Sir Evander in the finals.
Lastly there was a bear pit tournament. Sir Siegfried had the most wins, while there was a three-way
tie for second. Since Siegfried ’s
wins equaled all the wins of the three second place fighters put together (and
there was no time to continue the bear pit to break the tie), no points were
awarded for second place in this tournament.
All three groups present had one fighter in the top three
of the night. Sir Nigel from Thule
came in third with 6 points. Edward
of Bastille came in second with 7 points. Sir Siegfried
came in first over all with 8 points.
Tarian then presented Sir Siegfried
with the Yuletide Chalice, overflowing with candy and confections. Siegfried then practiced the noble virtue of
largesse and handed out candy to all present.
t t t t t
It is now Christmas Eve, and a mix of snow and rain falls
outside the manor. The members of Ardchreag are occupied with traveling to the
keeps and manses of their friends and families. Soon I must go out to the
stable and hitch up the sleigh, so that milord Colyne and milady Þorfinna may
cross the Greenhithe Territory to visit Colyne’s ancestral home, where Lord Snæbjörn
and the rest of his family awaits them.
May the peace of the season be upon us all.
I remain as always, the most loyal,
William
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