The Second Book of the Chronicle of Eoforwic

 

The Second Book of
the Chronicle of
Eoforwic
including the account of
The Barony of Septentria
and a relation of
the early history of
Ealdormere

Text copyright 1989 R. Scott Caple and W. Ted Szwejkowski
Illustrations copyright 1992 R. Scott Caple

Here begins the Preface:
This is the second part of the Chronicle of Eoforwic, telling of the
fortunes of its folk and the growth of this Canton in the ways of the Known
World.

It follows the first part of the Chronicle, written by Etienne de l'Isle at
the request of his lord, Duke Finnvarr de Taahe. Of late, the noble Duke
was desirous of a continuance of the Chronicle, and a setting down of the
momentous events that had transpired since the completion of the first part,
 lest they fade from the memory of men. His servant Etienne being then
heavily burdened, Duke Finnvarr entrusted this task to my lord and patron,
Master Robert of Two Cliffs, who in his turn bade me, William of
Roncesvalles, to compose this part of the Chronicle.

Like Etienne before me has made note, I must cry your mercy in this attempt
to do justice to all the noble lords and ladies who made the history that
you now read. No doubt some incidents have been overlooked and others are
inaccurate. in the attempt to do otherwise, I have drawn upon several
sources. Chief among these were those same archives of the great Duke
Finnvarr that aided my predecessor; also, the Great Book of the Seneschals
of Eoforwic; I am beholden unto Lord Alistair Kirk of Inness for allowing
me to read the Chronicles of the House of Inness; the recollections of many
people of our Barony aided me greatly; and the archives of my fellow scribe
Trevarius, who helped me to complete this work, also yielded much otherwise
forgotten knowledge.

Remember, these are but the writings of a poor scribe, who has but strung
together words. The good folk of Eoforwic have wrought the marvellous
things described herein. If that which you read begets a laugh or a tear or
a fond remembrance, or is inspiration enough to make future folk go forth
to do greater deeds yet, then it has done some good, and I lay down my
quill with an easy mind.

Here begins the second book of the Chronicle of Eoforwic:
A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXI

At this time, the land of Eoforwic was a star in the zenith of the
firmament, for the seat of the realm was there. The King of the Middle
Kingdom was Sir Hugo von Feuerklippe, and the crown sat fair upon his brow;
with his Queen, Caitlin Stuart, together they ruled the land. The whole of
the Kingdom came to know Eoforwic and its people, despite its distance from
the accustomed centre of the Kingdom.

The folk of Eoforwic numbered many, and the officers were these: Bronwyn
Meredith Kirk was Seneschal, Torbin of Amberhall was Pursuivant, Kaffa
Muiriath was Marshal, Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn was the Mistress of Arts,
and Megan of Silverthorne was Exchequer. The office of the Master of
Sciences could not be wrested from the control of the peasant rebels. And
the Households that were in strength at this time were these: de Taahe,
Eagleshaven, Teacht Ceartha Mor, Amberhall, Inness, Trahaus, and Winnan
Blowan.

August A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXI

The East was once again threatening the borders of the Kingdom. Eoforwic
therefore girded itself for battle and travelled into the Debatable Lands.
The Xth Pennsic War was a milestone for the Midrealm, for it was the first
War that was lost; the huge host of the East and its allies fell upon them,
and force of numbers won the day. In the defence of the forest, the
Midrealm Standard was defended on an island in a river, and this was where
the Eoforwic forces stood against the onslaught of both the Rhydderich Hael
and the Prince of Atlantia's troops, but even this emplacement was overrun.
King Hugo fell in the wane of the battle, so Moonwulf gathered about him
the best warriors, and pressed full forward towards the Eastrealm Standard,
and laying about him with many great blows, came within a spear's length of
the Eastrealm Royal Household and their Standard. But alas, even this great
effort c(a)me to naught, and the Midrealm swore that such a defeat should
never happen again.

Also at this War was created the Order of the Bear's Claw, an award of the
Barony of Septentria, given to those who give a significant contribution to
the war effort, be it material or otherwise; and its first recipients were
Helmut of Greenland and Broder from Castel Rouge. Kaffa was at this time
the King's Champion. This was the first year that anyone ventured to
inhabit the forests below the fields on which the armies camped and fought.
Septentrians were the first to settle these lands, and they cleared the
brush from between the trees, and made this place habitable, and thus
established their right to pitch their camp in that place.

Upon their return from the War, the people of Eoforwic found their
peasantry in open revolt, and the matter was decided on a day that was
coincidentally Queen Caitlin's birthday. The rabble made show of battle
with many rustic implements, and were led by Tor, Ugh, and John the Churl.
The peasants of Rising Waters presented their Queen with a freestanding
garde-robe. By even-time, the nobility could again show their faces with
out fear. At Court, Lady Mordreth Colwyn was received as a Companion of the
Order of the Willow, and Torbin of Amberhall and Illtyd the Apostate
received each an Augmentation of Arms.

It was around this time that Perygryne and Rowena joined the folk of
Eoforwic, as well as a group of friends of Guillaume de Provance, among
whom were Monica z Gniezno, and Gwynedd who was called Gill. They were
musicians, and they played as the Eoforwic Consort.

September A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXI

At this time, the Region of Calontir desired to become a Principality, and
it was King Hugo that lent great support of the Crown to their venture. It
was a great day, then, when King Hugo and Queen Caitlin presided over the
first Calontir Principality Coronet Tournament, which sealed many bonds
between the folk of Calontir and the King and Queen and their homeland.

Although Hugo and Caitlin seemed to the people of Eoforwic and many others
to be good and conscientious monarchs, a few influential folk took some of
their actions amiss. At Calontir's Coronet Feast, Caitlin was astonished to
hear from her successor that the Ladies of the Rose had decided not to
admit her to their Order, and this greatly saddened Hugo, Caitlin, and
their well-wishers. Thus the ending of their reign was less happy than it
should have been, and the folk of the north were no little discouraged. By
the same measure, a pall was cast over the Order of the Rose.

It was around this time that Ragni Dzintara began to print a monthly
pamphlet to keep the people of Eoforwic informed of happenings within the
Canton, and it was called the No Name Newsletter, after the likewise
nameless public house at the hall at the magistri artium. House Inness
maintained a great list of the gentlefolk of Eoforwic, complete with
records of where they lodged, and suggestions for how best to reach them.

October A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXI

All great times have their end, as befits the great scheme of things that
hath wrought heavens and earth, and there came the day when King Hugo and
Queen Caitlin stepped off the Dragon Thrones, and placed their crowns upon
the heads of their successors, Moonwulf and Takya; and Sir Hugo was
instituted as Graf, and Caitlin as Countess. Torbin of Amberhall fought in
the lists which Moonwulf won. On this occasion, Carolyn of Amberview
received her Award of Arms, Enid Aurelia received a Willow for the
performing arts, and Countess Caitlin was received into the Order of the
Laurel in recognition of her talents at embroidery and her teaching
thereof.

At this time, then, was the reign of Moonwulf and Takya. At their first
Court, Torbin was received into the Order of the Purple Fret. Later this
month, Afon Araf had a Sou'e'en event at which Hugo acted as butler.

November A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXI

Rhiannon of Wye made first her appearance in this month. This lady knew
much of arts and music, and was to accomplish many things in this wise.

January A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXII

On the IXth day of this month, the founding Baroness Septentria, Gillian
d'Uriel, was married to Lord Alair of the Bloody Fountain.

Fast away the old year passed, and Twelfth Night arrived. In Eoforwic, this
was celebrated on the XVIth of the month. Tamarra hosted the populace at
the Latvian House, and all were fêted grandly. Eoforings were very warlike
in those days, and so there was a tourney. This day was the birth day of
Fionn mac Aedan, the Baron's son, and senior squire to Sir Hugo. He had
reached the age when he would pass into manhood, and the Baron, to mark the
occasion, called forth his son before the populace at Court, and placed
around his neck a golden torque to let all present know that he was now
indeed a man.

On this occasion, Aedan and Kaffa each gave the other a Bear's Claw, and
this was the way of it: Charles d'Arnaud raised a petition and gave it to
Aedan, that he receive Kaffa into the Order, which he did. She then awarded
him the same honour in turn. The Baron and Baroness then resolved never to
give awards to each other again.

The Eoforwic players put forth a play entitled Eoforwic Ten Years From Now:

Act I, "Court:"
Sylard (played by Finnvarr) is "King of the North," and is advised by
Finnvarr (played by Sylard), a senile old Duke. The Court hears various
petitions (from Bronwyn and Imrahael, among others), and, in the spirit of
true Northern hospitality, all are offered beer, which is the seat of
power. Morgan Elandris (played by Mordreth), King by Right of Arms of the
East, arrives -- with dozens of King's Consorts -- for diplomatic
negotiations. She and King Sylard retire to a back room, and return to
announce that the Middle would be fighting for the East at War.

Act II, "War:"
The entire forces of the Known World array themselves on the battlefield,
and discover they have no-one to fight. A mysterious black knight arrives,
and destroys them all. He reveals himself to be Fionn (played by Illtyd).

The Canton of Rising Waters hosted the Baronial Twelfth Night on the
XXIII(rd) of the month.

February A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXII

A child was born unto Eoforwic's Seneschal, Bronwyn Kirk of Inness and her
husband, Alistair, on the VIIth day of this month, and she was named
Trista.

Edmond Fitztonge passed the Chronicler's office and care of the Ursus on to
Artair of Orkney about this time, and Strygor von Talmetz published the
infamous Nasty Book of Viking Verse.

March A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXII

In this month, Mordreth Colwyn assumed the duties of Baronial Mistress of
Arts in addition to her duties as the Eoforwic Officer of that capacity.

Upon the XIIIth day, all traveled to the edge of the Barony, to the Canton
of Starleaf Gate, which did host the IIIrd Clancy Day Tournament and Feast.
Graf Hugo won a thirty-six man list. Within the Royal Court that was held
that evening, Perygryne, Rowena of Bristol, Edmond Fitztonge, Valentina
Althea, and Stepann Ruthenko all received Awards of Arms; Sylard of
Eagleshaven was received as a Companion of the Order of the Willow, for his
skill in metalwork and the decoration thereof; and Aelflaeda fitz Alain
rec(ei)ved a Purple Fret. The baby Trista was presented in Court, and Hugo
and Caitlin were given the deed to Casa Loma, which they had been given in
fief, and the matter of squatters was discussed.

Also of note and import to the folk of Eoforwic and Septentria was the
recognition of the King and Queen that Skraeling Althing had reached the
stature of a Barony. Lady Enid Aurelia of the Tin Isles was instituted
Founding Baroness of the new Barony. Also at this time was a musical
performance of "Baron Aedan and his Consort."

April A.S. XVI
MCMLXXXII

On the IIIrd day of this month, the brother Canton of Noerlanda held its
annual University and Feast of the Bear. Of the lords and ladies there
present, there were some who had not been seen before: Megan Oriel la
Rodeuse, John of Slaughterfield, and Tarver the Pole. Megan was a lady
passing fair, with long dark hair. John was at that time called Draco, and
he sought to improve his "knight life." Although Tarver was greater in
height than most men, he was at that time still an impressionable young man,
 and had as yet no beard. Among the various classes presented at this
University, there was a comprehensive discussion of Wenching, but it was
the last class of its kind ever to be presented.

May A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

In this month began the reign of King Andrew and Queen Shara.

On the XXIIIrd, the fighters of Eoforwic gathered in the shadow of the
Great Library of the University and partook in a small tournament among
themselves to celebrate the return of warm fighting weather. Unfortunately,
the warm weather did not actually return until a short time later.

July A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

About this time, my lord Robert of Two Cliffs returned from the West
Kingdom, whence he had journeyed in A.S. V. There, in the Principality of
the Mists, he had met many Society folk and made many friends, and become a
squire to Sir Mark von dem Falkensfenn, who was a Companion of the Order of
the Silver Mollet. Robert marvelled at the ways in this, the place of birth
of the Society, and he was loathe to leave; but affairs required his return
to his homeland, and so he returned to Eoforwic.

Upon the lengthening of the days, Eoforwic was fain to celebrate the summer
tide, and thus hosted an event upon the XVIIth day of the month. Baron
Torbin of Amberhall proclaimed that no sort of weather should forestall the
Event, and it was thus named the Fair and Foul Day. Alas, it is ill luck to
tempt the gods, for partway through the day the heavens opened and a great
torrent poured down upon the populace, such that the tourney was unable to
proceed, and all those present headed for higher ground to escape the
flood.

The Warlord Tourney, therefore, had no victor save the rain. Duke Finnvarr,
who had fought in a lightning-storm in the IVth Pennsic War, removed his
armour post-haste at the first intimation of thunder. Among the other
activities of the day there was a foul insult consult, but the gentler arts
and sciences were also set forth in a competition organized by Lady
Mordreth, of which the winners were: First, Kaffa Muiriath; Second, Tsivia
bas Tamara, and Third, Sylard of Eagleshaven.

The evening proved sultry, yet the populace was well-met at the feast hall,
whereupon, in keeping with the day's theme, were served forth Fare and Fowl
removes, including capons with artful coverings resembling Swans. Peacocks,
and Flamingoes. A Mythical Beast costume competition was won by Lady
Tamarra, who set herself on to be a Hydra. Illtyd the Apostate was this
night made the principal of the new Baronial Order of the Bear's Heart,
which was to be given for outstanding service to the Barony in an
especially courteous and nurturing manner. It took some time to find the
noble Illtyd, because he was assisting those who were cleaning the hall,
even while the others were all gathered for Court.

And in the fateful theme of the day, all things fortunate were matched by
something less so, for this was Gwynedd's last appearance.

The same summer's eve saw the first appearance of the Eoforwic Singers.
This troupe of many jongleurs was led by Monika z Gniezno, who longed to
hear more music grace the feast hall. Monika gathered about her others of
like mind and talents, and the Eoforwic Singers practiced at House Inness,
in the presence of the swaddling Trista. Perhaps this is why she later
proved to be so musically adept.

Around this time Northwoods once again found itself in need of
Pacification. Baron Aedan led a five-man melee team consisting of himself,
Kaffa, Frederick, Torbin, and Sylard; and these fighters wore upon their
helms torses plaited of red and yellow with a golden bear painted upon them,
 and at the War which soon followed, all the warriors of the Barony came to
wear torses such as these.

August A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

In this month the Barony of Septentria, and Eoforwic with it, went forth
again to aid the Kingdom in the Debatable Lands. The XIth Pennsic War was a
low point in the fortunes of the Middle Kingdom, for again victory was lost
to the East. The Barony of Septentria, however, did greatly aid in the
capture of two War Points for the Midrealm. For it was Septentria that held
its bridge so well that none did pass, and it is thought that this action
greatly helped the Midrealm's ultimate victory in that Battle. In the Field
Battle, Sir Hugo slew the Prince of the East in single combat. And when
Archers took to the field, the Midrealm showed itself victorious, and Lord
Ricard of Sabletree did shoot his bow so well, that he was received into
the Order of the Bear's Claw. Shortly afterward, he became the Baronial
Archery Champion.

Also, there were Septentrians present in the Battle of the Champions, these
being Duke Finnvarr de Taahe, Graf Hugo von Feuerklippe, his squire Lord
Vladimir Bohdan Blahuciak, and Baron Aedan o Kincora. Sir Finnvarr was so
eager to advance upon the foe that he forgot to close his visor, and he had
to be reminded of it by his opponent, Sir Siegfried.

A group of Septentrians visiting the great Kha-Khan Korok were detained at
the camp of the Dark Horde at the behest of King Andrew, for he had decreed
that until a certain Chivalry meeting held there had been resolved, none
should leave that Camp's enclosure. This vexation was diluted if not washed
away entirely by the many interesting draughts offered by the hospitable
and apologetic Hordesmen.

This year were seen many snakes.

Another event which brought great joy to the people of Septentria and
Skraeling Althing was the elevation of Mordain Blackcloak to the Order of
Knighthood, during which ceremony Sir Finnvarr wielded the Sword of Estate.
As well, Awards of Arms were given to Rose of Gryphonwood and to
Hieronymous, the Skraelinger who came to be called Thorgrimmir. Also at
this war, Frederick and Tamarra set a new standard of comfort in the field
with a splendidly appointed pavilion, complete with furniture.

So it was that Septentria did snatch glory for its Kingdom from the jaws of
defeat.

September A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

Vladimir and his lady wife Leslie were hereafter little seen, but
Aethelwold o'Mercia did join the Canton in this month, and, sometime later,
Jane of Hendon.

On the XXVIIIth, which was his birthday, Tarver the Pole brought numerous
sweetcakes to Eoforwic's weekly gathering to celebrate the second
anniversary before his eligibility for authorization in the lists of the
Middle Kingdom. At the public house of the magistri artium after the
meeting, his birthday was loudly proclaimed; a fortuitous error in the
reckoning of his years allowed Tarver to drink there with the others.

The folk of Eoforwic made much use of the hall of the magistri artium, for
fighters' practices were at this time regular and well attended there under
Kaffa's direction. The situation was ideal, for the martial practice hall
was under the same roof as, and not twelve steps from, the public house.
Indeed, many non-combatants frequented the practices, and met there. Graf
Hugo would practice in this manner: He would arm, hold the field usually
defeating all challengers until he was too tired to fight on, and then
disarm. He then allowed Tarver to train in his sweaty armour. In time,
Tarver made armour of his own, one of the first items of which was the
infamous Human Pillow Gambeson.

October A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

At this time began the reign of King Talymar and Queen Eislinn, who was
widely renowned for her kindness, grace, and nobility.

On the XXXth day of this month, the folk of Eoforwic travelled to
Northwoods to see the tournament that would determine the succession of the
Crown, which was won by Corin du Soleil. The Barons Aedan o Kincora and
Torbin of Amberhall participated in these lists. At the evening Court
Alasdair of Raasay, Monika z Gniezno, and Elizabeth of Moravia were
summoned before the throne and received Awards of Arms, and the Baron
Torbin was made Companion of the Order of the Willow by virtue of his great
skill at the art of dancing and his teaching thereof.

November A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

In this month, the Canton of Rising Waters observed a festival in honour of
the god Bacchus. Folk of Eoforwic and from all of Septentria were present.
There was a grape stomping contest for which each Canton put forward a
Grape Stomping Champion, and Lord Tarver the Pole was made the Eoforwic
representative by reason of the size of his feet, which were in proportion
to his great height. In the contest, participants showed such vigour that
the vessels used were burst asunder, and Tarver was called "Thumper" by
Aaron of the Black Mountain. Sylard of Eagleshaven won the tourney, and
Steppan Ruthenko placed second. There was also a competition of the Arts
and Sciences. In all the god's health was mightily observed, and revelling
was great, so that it was agreed that this was an occasion to be feasted
every year at the time of the grape harvest.

December A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXII

On the XVIIIIth day, there was a revel and a Wassailing at the western
fringe of the city, and it was hosted by Rose of Gryphonwood.

There arrived in Eoforwic a messenger bringing news that King Talymar was
upon a Royal Progress, to assess his Kingdom and his people. Eoforwic
hastened to make ready to receive their King, and the Lady Bronwyn Meredith
Kirk was hostess upon this occasion. His Majesty was made welcome with a
feast and revels upon his arrival.

There were many timely awards presented at Court, and among these were
Awards of Arms for Bronwyn and Alistair Kirk of Inness, Charles d'Arnaud,
and Lothar von Wulfing, as well as a Willow for Kaffa. While the ink was
drying on the scrolls before Court, Monika and Mordreth sang and Alistair
juggled to entertain the assembled populace. Gunnar Halfdan of Lund, who
was noted for his gentle manners and generous disposition, was first seen
here. This was upon the XXVIIIth day of the month.

West of Eoforwic the new Canton of Der Welfengau was formed at this time,
and Tsvetan Arinsson was the Seneschal.

 

January A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXIII

With the advent of the new year, Twelfth Night revels were celebrated upon
the XVth day (of) the month, and Eoforwic was host to the Barony. Megan of
Silverthorn, using the theme of the celestial Zodiac, prepared the hall and
the feast which consisted of four removes, each representing the elements
of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. The Baronial Court held thereafter saw the
first presentation of the Cauldron of Caradwyn, which had been wrought by
dwarves and found by Sylard of Eagleshaven. This Cauldron derived its name
from the Welsh goddess of those inspired in word and song. The Cauldron was
richly decorated, inside and out, and there were runes engraved along the
inside rim of the Cauldron, thus:

And this is the meaning of the runes:

CAULDRON OF CEREDWYN GIVEN BY AEDAN AND KAFFA FOR THE GIVER OF THE GIFT OF
INSPIRATION

And it was proclaimed that the cauldron was each year upon this day to be
awarded to the person who most, in deeds and words, inspired others to do
that for which our Society was formed. Then the Baroness Kaffa took the
Cauldron, and presented it to Sylard, and he was the first to be the holder
of the Cauldron.

After this, the Baron Aedan summoned before him the Lord Strygor von
Talmetz, and created him Baronial Master of Steel, and charged him to keep
order in the feast hall of the weapons that were carried by the populace,
for the Baron had noticed this to be a matter that needed government. And
Strygor received in token of his new office a small round token and a
bidding to keep an eye on things. He and his brothers in House Eagleshaven
carry out this duty to this day.

Lord Alasdair of Raasay proved himself to be a fomenter of unrest at this
Court, for he offered certain lands not far from Skraeling Althing to Aedan
and Kaffa as a promising site for anew Canton. This caused protest from the
Skraelings there present, and Enid Aurelia of the Tin Isles, baroness
Skraeling Althing, was called before the Court. Baroness Enid was rallied
to by her people, and when the armed might of that Barony, which is to say
Sir Mordain Blackcloak, marched before the Court, both Sylard and Strygor
rose to protect the interests of Septentria. For a time, there was fear
that armed conflict could have broken out, and the word "war" was spoken,
but though the issue was in no wise resolved at that time, it came
eventually to be peacefully settled.

February A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXIII

Around this time, Sylard and Finnvarr did much work to instruct the youth
of the city about the days when Knighthood was in flower, and they were
assisted by several other members of the Canton, notably Alistair, Bronwyn
and Trista of Inness, Kaffa, Stepan, Ragni and Eanor, Mordreth, Searu,
Alasdair, Gunnar, and especially Tarver the Pole.

Upon the XIIth day of the month the Canton of Dubras hosted an event on the
Feast of St. Valentine. Several folk travelled from Eoforwic, and a tourney
and a feast was enjoyed. The winner of the tourney was Stepan Ruthenko, and
it seemed that as many light fixtures fell to the force of arms that day as
did fighters. My lord, Robert of Two Cliffs, was proclaimed Most Chivalrous
Lord of the day, and the Lady Bronwyn Meredith Kirk was proclaimed Most
Chivalrous Lady. Baroness Kaffa won a contest for favours, even though she
did not attend. She also won a Baronial Arts Pentathlon held around this
time.

On the XVth, a Court of Love was held in Eoforwic. Also, around this time,
Alistair Kirk became the Chronicler and took charge of Ursus, and Guillaume
de Provence became Eoforwic's Dancemaster.

March A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXIII

The Canton of Starleaf Gate held their annual Clancy Day festivities on the
XIIth day of this month, and several folk of Eoforwic travelled to observe
the occasion. In the Baronial Court, Tarver the Pole was made squire to Sir
Hugo, and did swear solemnly to be chivalrous in all things and to behave
always as the Knight he hoped to become. It was a custom among Hugo's
household that after a new squire had sworn fealty to him, the old squires
girded him with the red, black and yellow Trauhaus belt. It was the custom
among Hugo's squires to compete at how tightly they could squeeze their new
brothers-at-arms in this ceremony. But Tarver braced himself in such a way
that his breath was not wrung from him, and indeed Draymore got his fingers
caught in the belt as he tried to cinch it, causing Baroness Kaffa to
inquire if he had as much trouble putting on his own belt.

King Talymar gave Awards of Arms on this day to Rhiannon of Wye, Megan
Oriel la Rodeuse, and Tarver the Pole, and Lady Mordreth Colwyn did receive
a Purple Fret for her service in the Arts.

Also in this month the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael in the East Kingdom
celebrated their Festival of the Passing of the Ice Dragon, and several
Eoforwic folk travelled there.

April A.S. XVII
MCMLXXXIII

On the IVth day of this month, the Canton of Noerlanda celebrated the
annual Feast of the Bear, at which the Arts and Sciences Decathlon for the
Middle Kingdom was held. The Kingdom Arts and Sciences Officers were in
attendance.

On the XXXth day, the Canton of Rising Waters celebrated the Ascension of
St. Avril.

May A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

In this month began the reign of King Corin and Queen Myfanwy. Also at this
time my lord Robert journeyed to the far away and fabled lands of Cathay,
where he saw much and marvelled greatly. The tales of his travels and the
things he saw would themselves fill a whole volume.

June A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

On the XXth of this month Lord Clancy Longstrider, Award of Paws, Master of
Sciences of Starleaf Gate, died. It was around this time that Francis of
Skye came to Eoforwic from Dubras.

July A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

For some long time, Graf Hugo had surveyed the state of Events that he had
of late experienced, and he was sore displeased, and resolved to stem the
ebb-tide which he perceived. Thus it came to pass that the Known World was
invited to take part in a day at the court of Castiglione, where the
splendour of the Italian Renaissance would be seen. This day saw many great
things enacted. The gentle folk attending wore garb appropriate to that
court, and deported themselves very much as Italians, though there were
some few to whom this prospect was distasteful, and they did not come.
Rather than a tournament, there were challenges, fighting at the bar,
Giocho del Ponte (which are bridge battles), and a naval battle with a
melee between two ships and those on board.

Base lucre ruled the day, for a monopoly of the Mint had been granted to a
wealthy banker, Tarverio of Siena, and the entire populace was given 1000
ducats apiece. The fortunes of each house were to be counted up at the end
of the day, and all hastened to amass as much wealth as possible: A blind
eye was turned toward gambling and bribes, and even the Sisters from the
Convent of Our Lady of perpetual Gratification were collecting money to
replace their beds, which they claimed were worn out. In the end, the Lady
Tamarra claimed to be the wealthiest, until it was revealed that her lord
Ricardo had stolen much of the wealth on her behalf during the counting,
for which crime she was condemned to pay Kingdom taxes for the following
year.

In the gentler aspects of the day, the Publicus Absurdus Commedia del
Ebriosas, under the guidance of Breanaidh and Mordreth, performed two plays
in the wise of the Commedia dell Arte; these were entitled "The Comedy," or
"Fionn for Doge;" and "The Tragedy," or "A Tale of Two Households." The
latter of these, despite its title, contained more mirth than the former,
for even though everyone died at the end, they were all miraculously cured
even of this affliction by a mysterious Dottore Bob.

Al(i)stair's role was particularly memorable, for he played the beauteous
Isabella, a maiden whose purity was very much in doubt. Even here base gold
held sway, as the populace constantly bribed the players to mention their
names upon the stage.

Each City State had been instructed to select a candidate for Doge, who
would be elected by popular vote to preside over the feast that night. Alas,
 by feast time all but four of the candidates had been assassinated,
despite bodyguards and clever subterfuge. the candidates made speeches, and
pledged, variously, to lower taxes, strengthen the Army or sponsor the
Arts. Tarverio, speaking on behalf of a mystery candidate who had avoided
assassination by the devise of anonymity, persuaded the electors to chose
his man, though only by a narrow margin, by promising to abolish taxes,
producing his own armed force, doubling the pay in the Actor's Guild, and
then throwing fistsful of 1000 ducat coins at the electors. The runner up
in the election, one Serena Lucia del Pace, was invited to sit as Consort
of the newly elected Doge, Stepanno. The feast saw ten City States seated
at ten tables, served in a grand procession by ten gonfaloniers, each
wearing a tabard emblazoned with the arms of his City, and each bearing a
great pie with the same arms to be seen thereon. Lady Ragni cooked this
feast, and she and Duke Finnvarr planned all this panoply. It was, in truth,
 a wonderful sight to behold, and a most delicious and plentiful feast to
enjoy.

Certes, this was the most ambitious event that Eoforwic had ever attempted.
And there must be great tribute given to Graf Hugo, for his leadership and
tenacity saw that it was one of the most successful as well, which set high
the standard for subsequent occasions.

Another happening of great note transpired this month, in which many folk
of Eoforwic participated: a neighbouring guild of the town re-staged the
Coronation of Richard III, King of England, upon the 500th anniversary of
that event. This was done with meticulous attention to detail, right down
to the stuffiness of the cathedral; for Gunnar of Lund, who played the
Archbishop's crozier bearer, fainted from the heat. Lord Alistair Kirk of
Inness played well the role of the King, and the lavish feast served that
evening was prepared and supervised by Lady Rose of Gryphonwood, as well as
Mordreth and Ragni. John Broadbottom, a cleric, joined the Canton at this
time.

August A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

On the VIth day of this month, the Ladies Mordreth and Rose invited the
Canton to High Park to assist in a peaceful Quest for the Sleeping Hero.
And so, that evening, the quest began and continued long after dark. In the
end, the questors had almost as much trouble finding each other as that
which they sought, but there were strange charms in the air that night, and
many marvels were seen, and afterwards all agreed that the quest had been
well worth the effort.

Alas, even if there is peace at home, men are quarrelsome abroad, and
dip(lo)macy again failed to reconcile the differences between the east and
the Middle Kingdoms. And so the folk of Eoforwic put upon a grim visage and
journeyed to the Debatable (L)ands, and there joined the war camp of the
Midrealm. This was the XIIth Pennsic War.

Mention should be made of the size and duration of the Pennsic War, which
during the past few campaigns had increased an hundredfold from its humble
origins. The camp that Eoforwic beheld was vast, with thousands of warriors
and their kin and their households and their followers, with hundreds of
pavilion-tops to be seen covering the hillsides, and a riot of colour and
pageantry and heraldry and devices, splendid to be seen. The length of the
war had also grown, so that a few brave folk would spend an entire
fortnight upon the war-camp fields. So it was that the custom grew in
Eoforwic for one household to precede the others to the site, in order that
camping space might be claimed and available for those wagons following
behind.

Also at this war, the Ladies Rose of Gryphonwood and Dea of Carlisle
grumbled that they did not have a thing to wear as they were called to
become Companions of the Order of the Willow, by virtue of their skill in
costuming and embroidery. This was at the very end, alas, of one of the
most tedious Courts ever endured by humankind.

September A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

Eoforwic at this time was certes populous and prosperous, but yet it was
thought advantageous to let other folk of like mind be aware of the
existence of the Society. Thus it was on the XVIIth day of the month that
there was held a tourney and day of revels, organized by Lord Tarver. Many
crafts were demonstrated: Sylard even brought a forge in a satchel, and
then cooked a meal over the coals and demonstrating the techniques of
blacksmithing. This was the last time that Eoforwic sought new members at
the traditional place, on the Philosopher's Walk.

>From this effort, several new folk did indeed come and swell the ranks of
Eoforwic. Among these were Maraigha ni Sean de Sianan, a lady skilled in
drama, and surpassing in courtesy; Amala-Sand die Sanfte, a lady small of
stature but great of heart; and Charles de Montfichet of Ham, a veritable
giant, half a head taller even than Lord Tarver, and every inch a
gentleman. Also at this time, Lord Myrddin Llygoden came to Eoforwic to
join the great community of scholars. He had bee forced to flee his native
land because of an incident involving some verses about a seneschal and her
cinnamon stick.

Draymore von Dreikof became the Marshal of Eoforwic at this time.

October A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

In this month began the reign of King Alen and Queen Genevieve. There was,
on the first day of this month, a Collegium held for the edification of the
Barony by the Canton of Der Welfengau.

November A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

On the Vth day of this month the Canton of Rising Waters celebrated the
Feast of Bacchus. Lady Ragni and Duke Finnvarr sported wine-coloured robes
and garlands of vines in honour of the occasion. Graf Hugo won the
tournament, and Lady Tamarra Amalthea sponsored a Baronial Arts and
Sciences contest.

Upon the XIXth day of the month, some folk of Eoforwic journeyed to observe
the Feast of the Hare in Skraeling Althing. Illtyd the Apostate, who had
not been seen for some time, was present; and all rejoiced merrily, for in
his absence he had become a fully fledged Doctor of Philosophy.

December A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIII

In this month, Bronwyn Meredith Kirk passed the Seneschal's Key on to Megan
of Silverthorne. Also in this month, an edition of the No Name Newsletter
appeared as the New Name Noseletter. Some time later, the confusion spread,
and when the rolls of the Eoforwic membership were passed from the keeping
of House Inness to the Eoforwic Chronicler, they began to appear as the No
News Nameletter. Eanor of Amberhall was held responsible for the latter
title.

January A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIV

The wheel of time rides hard, and Twelfth Night was again upon the land.
The Barony was hosted by the Canton of Der Welfengau this year upon the
XIVth day, and saw these events: the bestowing of the Cauldron of Caradwyn
upon Duke Finnvarr, and the declaration by the Baron of the taxes that
would be due one year from that day. From each Canton of the Barony he
demanded a spear, that those spears should be full wrought and well, and
that each spear should have a banneret showing the arms of its Canton, and
that they should appear at each Twelfth Night, so that all should thereby
know the power of the Barony.

Sir Hugo had recently resolved to travel far and long to the lands of An
Tir. Being a just and honourable man, he therefore publicly offered to
release any of his squires from their oaths of fealty without shame or
stigma, so that in his extended absence, they would not be bound to a liege
lord whom they could not serve, and from whom they could not learn the arts
of courtesy and combat. Though it greatly saddened his heart, Tarver
accepted the offer, and, in the Baronial Court the Knight duly and solemnly
released his Squire from every oath except the one to always behave as the
Peer he hoped to become. As a parting gift, Sir Hugo returned to Tarver his
red belt and permitted him to style himself a "squire at large" until he
found a new liege lord.

After this, the Baron did knit his brow, as one who is minded of dark
thoughts, and called forth the name of Dragmore, outlaw, the villain who
had so offended the Barony; for it was in this wise, that this certain
Dragmore had stolen some (of) the wealth of the Barony, and the Baron had
previously commanded his head. Alas, neither Dragmore's head, no(r) any
part of him was to be seen that night, at which the Baron waxed wroth, and
demanded that the head of Dragmore should be at his feet upon the feast of
Twelfth Night to be held in Eoforwic a fortnight hence, lest other heads
should roll.

So it was that upon the XXIst day of the month Eoforwic celebrated Twelfth
Night, and Dierdre of Carlisle did arrange the festivities. At the
appointed time, the Baron again demanded the head of Dragmore, whereupon a
tumult arose, and there was borne unto the Head Table, not only one head,
but two, and these followed hard upon by a nose, a thumb, and then several
other pieces of human flesh best not thought on. Thus the wrath of Aedan
was appeased, and Dragmore was seen no more, although some say he escaped,
and the gory details were merely those of some hapless slave.

On this night. Lord Frederick (l)'Avarre brought in a most wondrous
subtlety, a night paying vigil by a fountain of wine. And it was seen that
the wealth of Eoforwic is so great, that Eoforings can not only afford to
charge their glasses with wine, but they also can fill their fountains and
even mop their floors with it.

Also on this night, Lord Frederick passed the Baldric of Office of the
Eoforwic Pursuivant on to Lord Tarver the Pole.

It was about this time that Graf Hugo and Lady Rowena left the boundaries
of Eoforwic and Septentria and travelled west to the Kingdom of An Tir.
They were the last to inhabit Albany House, and when they left, it stood
abandoned. Lady Dea continued to live nearby for some time, however.

March A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIV

The Canton of Ben Dunfirth temporarily changed its name to New Farthing,
and celebrated the feast of St. David upon the IIIrd day of the month. A
tourney and feast were attended by many folk from Eoforwic and other
reaches of the Barony. The infamous House Three Coins flourished briefly
about this time in those parts.

In this month, the folk of Eoforwic lent aid to yet another guild of the
town, that of the Harbourfront, to help educate young lords and ladies in
the ways of the Middle Ages. Lady Bronwyn Meredith Kirk did organize the
activities and direct those others involved, who were many: Robert of Two
Cliffs, Tarver the Pole, Gunnar of Lund, Amala-Sand die Sanfte, Rhiannon of
Wye, Lothar von Wulfing, Draymore von Dreikof, Anneka, and also Finnvarr,
Eanor, Rose of Gryphonwood, Rickard of Sabletree, and Torbin of Amberhall.
Each day for a week, from the XIIth unto the XVIth, the young ones learned
of heraldry, dancing, singing, and acting out plays, and used their newly
acquired courtiership to entertain some local kingling and his queen,
Alfred and Ann. At the end of the week, the volunteers descended on my Lord
Robert's hall to celebrate a job well done.

On the XVIIth day of this month, the Festival of the Passing of the Ice
Dragon was held in Rhydderich Hael. Lord Tarver was authorized in the lists
in the Eastrealm, even though he was still to young to fight legally in the
Middle Kingdom. Tarver wore the Baronial Favour, and was the last
Septentrian to be defeated from the lists. The fighting was hard: one
Eastern Duke was seen to break his sword over an opponent's head, retire
for a fresh weapon, and then return for the kill. In the Arts and Sciences
competition, a portrait of Lady Ragni and Eanor from the scriptorium of my
lord Robert of Two Cliffs won a prize.

About this time, in spite of Draymore's efforts as Marshal, fighting space
had grown sparse. The proprietors of the magistri artium had started to
demand great sums of money, and the fighters found this burden excessive.
And so, the fighters wandered from hall to hall looking for a place to
train. The welcome extended to the fighters of Eoforwic by Cowan Hall
expired in a particularly dramatic manner when Draymore attempted to wield
a pole-arm in plate gauntlets of his own construction which were poorly
made and fit too loosely. He was struck on the left hand with such great
force by a bastard sword that the end of his smallest finger was verily
cleaved in twain, and the bone did shatter into splinters. In truth, when
the proprietor of the hall found Baron Aedan trying to mop the blood off
the walls, the fighters found themselves once again without a place to
practice.

April A.S. XVIII
MCMLXXXIV

On the IIIrd of this month, the stork did visit the de Taahe household and
leave a boy. He was named Gavin de Taahe.

Lest it be thought that the folk of Eoforwic do ceaselessly fight and drink,
 here it should be said that this is not so, but they are practitioners of
the arts and sciences to the highest degree, and thus the annual
competitions in these fields are a focus of great activity.

Therefore the Regional Competition for practice in the arts and sciences
came to pass on the XXII(nd) day of the month. Many wonderful things were
to be seen and competition was fierce. Eoforwic hosted the Region, and Lady
Bronwyn Meridith was autocrat. The Lady Fern de la Forêt, who was long a
friend of Eoforwic, coordinated the judging, of which there was much to be
overseen. Even as the feast was being served, some judges were still at
their task. Eventually, all was done, and Court proceedings began with a
Baronial Court, where were proclaimed the winners of the competition, and
this was soon followed by a Royal Court, for in sooth, the Prince and
Princess, Eliahu and Elen, were present. Awards were received by Ricard of
Sabletree, who was received as a Companion of the Silver Oak for his skill
in leatherworking, and by Helmut of Greenland, who was given the Order of
the Purple Fret for his service. And then, Sylard of Eagleshaven was
summoned to the Court, and there made Laurel, in view of the numerous and
fine pieces of metalwork he had wrought. Thus was the third Peer of
Eoforwic created, and the day made complete.

Lord Tarver served Amala-Sand die Sanfte as her liveried man-servant for
the day.

A great marvel was seen this day: As the long scroll of winners in the
Competition was being read out, Prince Eliahu slipped into the back of the
Baronial Court. He was weary from conducting much Royal business, and he
took the coronet from his brow, whereupon it appeared to sit so lightly,
and set it gently upon a table. But so great is the weight of the Crown,
that the table collapsed with a resounding crash beneath it! many saw this
marvel, and all who saw it were amazed, and knew by it that Eliahu would
someday be a truly great King.

May A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

Here began the reign of King Eliahu and Queen Elen.

With the arrival of Mayday and the start of the new Society year, it is
usual for a change to come over the earth. And few can dispute that it was
a great change indeed when House Inness abandoned its old holding and
dispersed throughout the town. Alistair travelled East, and after some time
was presumed dead by Bronwyn. Also, Geoffrey de Bellac was hereafter little
seen. When the dust cleared, Alistair Kirk and Dierdre of Carlyle formed
the new nucleus of House Inness.

In this month Lady Mordreth Colwyn took up the office of Regional Mistress
of Arts, and Ragni Dzintara the office of Regional Seneschal. On the XIXth
and XXth days, the Poculi Ludique Societas enacted the Chester Cycle of
Mystery Plays, and many folk of Eoforwic were in attendance, and Rhiannon
of Wye was seen to frolic.

Upon the XXVIth day of the month, the tournament to decide the heirs to the
Crown was held in the Shire of St. carol on the Moor. Also to be held at
this time and place was the judging of the Arts and Sciences of the entire
Kingdom, where each of the lands of the Kingdom brought together their best
works to be seen and judged by their peers. To this end did my Lord Robert.
Master Sylard, his Lady Mordreth, and Lady Rose of Gryphonwood travel, for
their own sake and on behalf of the entire region, for they carried with
them many of the entries from the recent Regional contest. This was no mean
feat, as their destination lay many leagues hence, and the road was
treacherous, and they had to pass through fire and flood and past heavily
armed natives ere they safely arrived.

The tournament proved to be of great interest, for as the Master Valerius
Paen Calvus of Caer Anterth rose in the lists, it was discerned that the
Lady whose favour he carried did not wish to become Queen. Upon some
discussion the Lady Fern de la Forêt, who had herself just been defeated
from the lists, stepped forward to hang her favour from Valerius's belt.
With this, Valerius went on (to) win the tournament, defeating Sir
Berengaer in the final bouts. in the meantime, the judging of the Arts and
Sciences was completed, and the Region was seen to have captured many
honours, and Lady Mordreth was found to have won the overall Championship,
tied with the Lady Gwynfreya.

At the royal Court convened that evening, King Eliahu recognized Valerius
as Tanist, and Fern stood at his side as Princess, and all those present
raised their voices and gave loud acclaim to this unexpected, yet happy,
turn of events. Thus the travellers returned to Eoforwic, somewhat weary
but with much news and gladsome hearts.

 

June A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

After such momentous events, the folk of Eoforwic retired to their lands
and tended to their hearths and recouped their energies. On the evening of
the VIIIth day of this month, some folk from the Canton gathered on Prince
Arthur Street to demonstrate the martial and gentle arts at a fair put on
the merchants of that quarter. It was here that the folk of Eoforwic
discovered a fine public house under the sponsorship of the Duke of York.

On the XVIth day of the sixth month, the Canton of Ben Dunfirth proclaimed
a tournament that would be held over two days to allow those present to
train for readiness in the event of yet another Pennsic War. eager to hone
their skills in waging war, Eoforwic joined other folk of the Barony and
those of the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael of the East in raising their
pavilions upon the practice field. A tournament was fought by teams of
fighters in a series of melees and bridge battles from which the members of
House Elandris of Rhydderich Hael, led by Barak Sir Hasdrubal, emerged
victorious by dint of their abilities to work together as a team. Thus
began the tradition of the Murder Melee in the Meadow. This event was
remarkable for the amount of rain that fell, forcing the people there to
assemble under a common shelter; it is ironic to note the inclemence of the
weather became almost a tradition for this event. This was the occasion of
the Three Miracles of St. Sylard, and it was to be Master Sylard's last
appearance in the lists for a very long time. Also, Charles of Ham received
an Award of Arms.

On the XXIIIrd day of the month, amidst the flurry of making ready for war,
Lord Tarver the Pole went with Lord Myrddin and Lady Rhiannon to the
forests north of the city. There, after a long search, they found a perfect
ash tree, and after laying out sacrifices and singing songs to appease the
wood spirits, Tarver cut this tree with a special axe etched with serpents
and with runes. From this enchanted ashwood, Tarver fashioned a great
spear. Also about this time, Tarver built a large shield press, and he
produced a great number of shields of all different sizes for the warriors
of Septentria. One of these was painted by Baroness Kaffa with the Queen's
Arms, differenced by label, and was borne in battle by Princess Fern
herself. Thus were first displayed the arms of the Princess of the Middle
Kingdom.

Now, in these days it was to be seen that Eoforwic and its Environs had
grown in many ways and become more self-sufficient, such that the local
folk did no longer always have to journey far into the centre of the
Kingdom to attend events, and their numbers had grown many fold, and there
were many works of art and of service accomplished within our own lands.
And a murmuring arose throughout the populace that there was sufficient
cause for a new, separate land to be formed, that would serve the cause of
the Society, yet be its own voice.

This had long been the dream of T'sivia bas Tamarra, but it was Ragni
Dzintara, as Regional Seneschal, who called a great Moot to decide how this
might be done, and how best to achieve it. The Moot was held in then
original Amberhall, and to it came many known and respected voices from
both the Baronies of Septentria and Skraeling Althing.

At the Moot it was decided that the Baronies of Septentria and Skraeling
Althing, which is to say all the lands within the area known to some as
Ontario, should formally become a Region. From these beginnings, the Region
would grow to the status of a Principality, and become in time a Kingdom in
its own right, with its own laws and customs, and freedom to do as it chose,
 and serve the Society in its own way. Also, it was decided that firstly
some person from these lands should be chosen to represent the region, and
would symbolize the virtues of the Region, and that this person would be
known as the Champion of the Region

So it was decided that a great tournament should be proclaimed, and the
winner thereof should become the first regional Champion, and an Honourable
Committee was established to oversee the preparations for all these things.

The Honourable Committee the set forth to make certain that this Champion
be virtuous in all things, and proclaimed that he should not be chosen
solely through skills at arms but also should show some measure of other
skills; and therefore he should enter some handiwork in the annual Arts and
Sciences competition; and he should be an Armiger, for, it was reasoned,
most people possessed with sufficient gravitas and dignitas for this honour
would also have Arms; but if twelve good men and true stood forth, in Court,
 and vouched for someone who was not Armigerous, then that person too could
enter the tournament, if he met the other requirements.

I this way the preparations began for establishing the foundations on which
the folk of the Region were to build their future.

July A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

On the VIIth day, some folk of Eoforwic did again show forth their talents
to the barbarian populace, this time at the Grange. There was a great deal
of fighting on this day, and there was also an extensive market, notable
for rare silks. Rhiannon and Monika sang to entertain the people, and by
virtue of strange and marvelous enchantments, their melodious voices
carried farther than ever before thought possible.

Some time after this, the Barony of Skraeling Althing proclaimed a Grand
Crusade, to bring the ways of the East and the West together in one place.
When the folk of Eoforwic arrived at the appointed place they found a
bazaar full of wonderful things. Merchants and bellydancers vied for
attention in the marketplace, and warriors both Christian and Saracen
tested their mettle through challenges, the noble game of Bouskashi, and a
tournament. Claude de la Beche, who had not been seen in Eoforwic for a
short time, was there and all were astonished at the quantity of chainmail,
leatherwork, and other crafts he had produced.

Also in this month, the time drew nigh at which it was customary for
Eoforwic to host its annual mid-summer gathering. To this end, the House
Teacht Cearta Mor invited the Known World to a day of Celtic Games. which
were to be held upon that largest of the islands which lay in the lake
bordering Eoforwic's south shore.

So it was that the sun shone fair upon the day when folk such as Saxons,
Vikings, Celts, Jutes, Picts, Angles, and Goths crossed the Eoforwic waters
and arrived upon the isle, where all showed their avowed prowess at such
sports as spear casting, axe throwing, and foot races. Challenges and
boasts were exchanged -- and rightly so, in the custom of our forebearers
-- and joyful combat took place throughout the day. After a last-minute
session of armouring, making use of whatever material came to hand, Gunnar
of Lund authorised in the lists; many were astonished when he defeated Sir
Mordain Blackcloak in his first fight thereafter.

With the westering of the sun upon the waters, all gathered together upon
the ground and were served a feast of Viking and Celtic foods, expertly
prepared byLady Mordreth. Then, in the light of torches, Court was
convened; first a Baronial, then a Royal Court, for King Eliahu and Queen
Elen had graced the day with their presence. They honoured both Lady Monika
z Gniezno and my lord Robert of Two Cliffs with Companionship in the Order
of the Willow. Here, too, Lady Rhiannon of Wye took up the office of
Baronial Mistress of Sciences. Purple Frets were awarded to Megan of
Silverthorn, Carolyn of Amberview, and Ivy, katrina, and Yusef of South
Tower.

When it was proclaimed that Lord Frederick L'Avarre was also to be admitted
to the Order of the Purple Fret, for his undying and indiscriminating
service in Transportation, the dutiful lord could not be found to accept it,
 for he was in sooth plying the waters of the harbour, executing that same
service!

Soon thereafter, it was time to return across the now dark lake waters, and
a great exodus of people loaded low with all manner of goods ensued, and
the boats were laden heavily. et, under the direction of Lord Frederick,
all came safely to the homeward side, and from there did wend their ways
home.

August A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

Again it was the height of the season, and again the need arose to push the
East back from our borders. once more Eoforwic journeyed to the Debatable
Lands to beat back the Eastern tide from our shore.

At this, the XIIIth Pennsic War, the Midrealm army saw itself defeated in
the Field and Woods Battles, but in the Bridge Battle they were victorious
due in no small part to the generalship of King Eliahu. Sir Mordain
Blackcloak was Captain of the combined forces of Septentria and Skraeling
Althing at this engagement, and he acquitted himself quite well, commanding
the force which broke through the uppermost bridge even as the King
singlehandedly contained the foe on the centre one. After the battle, king
Eliahu was lifted by the victorious Midrealm army onto their shoulders and
carried about in celebration: Indeed, few Kings of the Middle Kingdom have
ever known such a great Triumph.

Among the very few survivors of this battle were two Septentrians, one of
whom was Alasdair of Raasay, who had borrowed Tarver's very largest shield.
Both of these worthies were awarded Bear's Claws for their exploits.

The Septentrian and Skraeling warriors had a rude surprise in the Woods
when the back road they were guarding with a small force turned out to be
the very one along which the entire Eastrealm army had chosen to advance.
the defence of this road was glorious, but very, very brief. But when the
Archers of the north took their places in three ranks, twelve abreast, this
show of strength did cause the enemy to despair.

Lord Tarver had built a large pavillion this summer with the help of Lord
Myrddin, Amala-Sand, and one William, a gentle who was increasingly seen in
Amala-Sand's company. All weary travellers were welcome to stay in that
tent at any hour. With Gunnar's collaboration, hospitality was extended to
many, especially during the violent Pennsic storms. This was the year that
the people of Septentria first befriended Lady Constance of Purneos, a
living paradigm of courtesy, whose artistic talents are beyond recounting,
who lived beyond the border Marches of the East Kingdom.

September A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

The harvest month of September was come again, and Eoforwic showed itself
in full panoply upon the lawn of the great library in the University
Quarter of the town, and there reaped another crop of new members,
including two lords who already knew much of the Society, and had come to
Eoforwic to further their studies: James Schoen MacAndrews vom Falkenshield,
 (who was called by those who knew him Jamie); and Rudrig mac Erc, (who was
called by many Rory). And these two lords did greatly enhance the vitality
of Eoforwic, and lend their talents in many ways, James most notably by his
calligraphy and heraldry, Rudrig by his meadmaking and his great erudition
as well as his knowledge of much excellent music, and both of them by
dance.

Also on this occasion were first seen Genet of Ashertor, Belisarius
Comnenus Anatolikoner, and Maraigha ni Sean de Sianan, and, a short time
after this, D'vorah bat Yitzhak ha Levi.

Though she had long been studying music, Rhiannon of Wye had been without a
harp. But, on the IVth day of this month, she returned to Eoforwic with a
harp not only of her own, but also of her own construction, having been to
Skraeling Althing to study for a short time under Nain Dyslandia, who is
called the Harper.

At this time, Lady Megan of Silverthorne fell victim to the same
Seneschal's Disease which had afflicted her predecessor, and so she retired
to raise her new son, Brendan, who was born in this month. She passed the
burden of the Seneschalate on to Aethelwold o'Mercia, and there was some
concern lest he too should contract the Seneschal's Disease, but it was
concluded that he was at worst a carrier, and would not succumb to the
malady himself.

Also at this time, the folk of Eoforwic and the surrounding lands were
overjoyed to hear of the betrothal of the Baroness of Skraeling Althing,
Enid Aurelia of the Tin Isles, to Lord Henry of Linlithgow, and many did
attend their marriage, which was held upon the VIIIth day of the month, and
celebrated with a Renaissance-style feast.

It was also about this time that Draymore and his lady wife, Sile, ceased
to be seen in Eoforwic.

On the XXIst day of this month the Canton of Der Welfengau did host the
Region at a Collegium, whereat much knowledge of the arts and sciences was
set forth in lectures and workshops led by those of the Region
knowledgeable in those ways. many and varied were the topics of learning,
and of the folk that did lead these workshops were Lady Searu Dracwyn, who
told of illumination; my lord Robert, of calligraphy; Master Sylard, of
decorative metalwork and acid etching; Baroness Kaffa, of woodcarving; and
Baron Aedan, who of late had gained much expertise, to the lasting pleasure
of his household, in the science of brewing.

October A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

Here begins the reign of King Valerius and Queen Fern. In sooth, great were
the fortunes of Eoforwic and all of the region around, while these two
worthies sat upon the Dragon Throne.

The Coronation of Valerius and Fern was held in the Barony of Northwoods,
unto which several folk of Septentria did hasten. During the day two
tourneys were fought, and from the lists of the novice tourney Lord Tarver
the Pole emerged victorious, and it was noted that this was the young
lord's first time competing in the lists of a Midrealm tournament; the
prize he claimed was a long pole of rattan of exceptional quality. Sir
Reynard the Brown, who won the other lists, was also competing for the
first time in the Middle Kingdom, having recently arrived from the Barony
of Storvik in Atlantia. Sir Reynard and Lord Tarver, as the two victors,
both wore purple robes at the revels that evening.

When all assembled for Court, the Crowns were placed upon the heads of
Valerius and Fern, and Eliahu and Elen were elevated to the rank of Count
and Countess. On this occasion, two scrolls, which had been commissioned
from my lord Robert by Princess Fern, were presented to their Excellencies;
it is my belief that these went far in bringing my lord good fortune. at
this time, Lady Tamarra stepped down as Baronial Mistress of Sciences and
that office was taken by Rhiannon of Wye.

November A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXIV

With the coming of the grape harvest, the Canton of Rising Waters let it be
known that it was their intent to strip the vine once more, and the third
Feast of Bacchus was proclaimed, and it was celebrated on the IIIrd day of
the month. the hall was graced by the presence of Queen Fern, who gave
Awards of Arms to Jane of Hendon and Gunnar of Lund, though he was not
there to receive the scroll himself; Lord Tsvetan Arinsson was entered into
the Order of the Purple Fret for his efforts in the teaching of dance; and
Searu Dracwyn and Rhiannon of Wye were made Companions of the Order of the
Willow, for illumination and calligraphy and for skill in harping and music,
 respectively. A competition for children's toys was won by Lady Dominica,
and Baron Aedan won the chess tournament. At this time, James MacAndrews
swore fealty to Duke Finnvarr, took from him a red belt, and became his
squire. Kyrille Andreskevitch made his first appearance. Again, the revels
went on far into the night, and the grape was squeezed beyond caring. May
we be granted as much wisdom in our lives as there has been wine in our
cups!

On the Xth day of the month a lady by the name of Adriana, who wished to
make the acquaintance of the Canton, did so in a most delightful way: She
invited everyone to her hearth for a revel, and there served food which was
worthy of the finest feast, although the hearth itself was not as good at
clearing smoke from the room as it might have been. It was at this revel
that Gunnar was presented with his Award of Arms scroll. Adriana was much
liked by the folk of Eoforwic, and she showed great promise, but within
several months she was called away by her studies, and travelled off into
the world.

On the XIVth day, Charles d'Arnaud was married and thereafter little seen.

January A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXV

The folk of Eoforwic gathered to the hospitality of Robert of Two Cliffs
and enjoyed a Twelfth Night celebration with a simple feast of winter foods
prepared by Master Sylard. The subtlety was a pudding in the form of a
blazing Yule log brought in by Lord Frederick L'Avarre. Banners bearing the
devices of Septentria and Eoforwic were prepared by Lady Rose and Lady Mary
Crystalmer. This night also saw the third passage of the Wren, led by Lady
Monika.

On this night, Lord Tarver the Pole swore fealty to Sir Finnvarr, and
through him to Baron Aedan, for the duke was himself Aedan's vassal. By
thus becoming Finnvarr's squire, Tarver put behind him a year of liegeless
mercenary endeavour; indeed, the very next time that he raised his sword in
battle, the silver ring which he had received from Rhiannon for defending
her good name broke, and fell from his hand. And so Rhiannon made for
Tarver another silver ring, to wear as a token of friendship rather than
payment.

A second Twelfth Night celebration was held upon the XIXth day of the month,
 when Noerlanda hosted the Barony and filled the day with games of all
sorts, including a Family-Tree which was incomplete, whereat each person
there present was given a note with a clue thereon, whereupon they were
beholden to uncover their identity and proper place on the Tree, through
consultation and query of the other gentles. But of all the games that were
played that day, none can match the games invented by the Guild of Imps,
which specialised in dancing around bewildered young men. Derek Dhooglais
was at this time befuddled with the identity of Anneke, for whose favour he
paid to Rhiannon the deed to Noerlanda.

Because it was feared that Rhiannon might have picked up some bad habits
from her association with a certain Lady Monika the Loose, six gentle lords
kept her constantly chaperoned, sheltered from the common merchants,
shielded from lascivious influences, told many moral tales by Rudrig, and
kept from the dangers of wine with her supper.

Court was convened before feast, whereat their Excellencies Kaffa and Aedan
bestowed awards: Lady Fiona Averil of Maidenhead was given the Cauldron of
Ceredwyn to hold for the next year, by reason of the excellence with which
she evoked inspiration. Then Baron Aedan summoned the taxes to be brought
before him, and each Canton of the Barony came forth bearing a spear, and
each spear had a banneret attached, and each banneret bore the Arms of the
Canton that bore that spear. And each of these took their places beside the
seats of their Excellencies, so all could see the might and excellence of
craftsmanship of the Barony. Eoforwic did not prepare a banneret in time,
and so had to make do with a piece of parchment affixed to its spear.
Master Sylard took his first apprentice, Ricard of Sabletree, and girded
him with a fine green belt set with gleaming etched plates.

Also at this Court, those whose intent it was to compete for the Regional
Championship came before the Court, and said aloud their Declaration of
Intent, saying their names, and the names of their chosen Consort, and
their reasons for declaring thus; for the date of the Regional Championship
Tournament had been set by the Honourable Committee to coincide with the
Decennial of Eoforwic in the upcoming summer.

March A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXV

On the IXth day of this month Rhiannon, Monika, James, Tarver, and Gunnar
ventured to the lesser of the universities in Waterloo, near Dubhras, and
there they met Alasdair of Raasey, who had with him several fighters whom
he had trained, including one who then was called Cato, and a lady fighter.
the fighters demonstrated the martial arts to the populace in hope of
stirring up interest in the Society there, but in the end, the venture
never spread beyond Alasdair's circle of friends.

Upon the Xth day of this month, a second Regional Moot was held at the hall
of Sabletree, where was reviewed the status of the Region and the progress
made thus far. here it was decided that the Baronial newsletter, Ursus,
would become the newsletter of the new Region, for the readership was broad,
 and it was printed regularly. Some time before this, a plebiscite had been
conducted to determine the name of the new region, and at this meeting
EALDORMERE was decided upon, meaning Noble and Ancient Lakes.

Upon the XVIth of the month, folk from Eoforwic crossed again the Borders
of the Midrealm, and ventured into the East to attend the Festival of the
Passing of the Ice Dragon, which was grander than ever before, boasting an
eighty-two man list, the largest ever seen, and also many marvellous works
in the accompanying Arts and Sciences competition. Yet for all that, and
somewhat to the annoyance of our Eastern neighbours, the artisans of
Septentria again walked away with many of the prizes. Notable among the
prizewinning works was Olaf Tarverson, a sword-wielding puppet which Lord
Tarver had been made as a gift for Sir Raimund of the Strait.

Also at this event, Lord Tarver first used his new sword, Victory Taker,
which he had fashioned from the rattan he had won in Northwoods. This sword
and its scabbard were so wrought, that just before the grand melee an
Eastern marshal became quite alarmed when he mistook it for live steel.

April A.S. XIX
MCMLXXXV

Then the time came again for the artisans and scientists of Ealdormere to
compete among themselves, as the first Regional Arts and Sciences
Decathlon. This was upon the XIIIth day. The number of artifacts to be seen
at the tables was astonishing in number, and hardly less astonishing in
quality. The judging of such an array was formidable, but the good
organization of the Canton of West Yorvik, which hosted the event, and the
skills of Frederick l'Avarre, upon his singular abacus, eased the task
considerably, so that all could repair to the feast hall in good time.

It was on this day that the Wolf was chosen as the animal which would
symbolize the new Region. Lady Mordreth's design was chosen for the
"Collars of State" which were to be worn by the Champion and Consort. Also,
Madeleine de l'Este made her first appearance, John Broadbottom became the
new Chronicler of Ursus, and Deirdre of Carlyle became Eoforwic's new
Mistress of Arts.

The Court that night saw a veritable high point in the history of Eoforwic
and Septentria and Ealdormere. In Baronial Court, the winners of the
Decathlon were made known. Also at this time, there was a call for any
remaining persons who were desirous of declaring Intent to compete in the
Regional Championship. Here is the list of all those who declared in this
Court, and in all previous Courts, and who then fought in the Tournament:

Lord Aescferth Wolfsonne declared that he would fight for Lady Jane of
Hendon, Alaric Blacksword declared that he would fight for Lady Tamarra
Amalthea de Romany, Lord Alasdair of Raasey declared that he would fight
for Lady Monika z Gniezno, Lord Alistair Kirk of Inness declared that he
would fight for Lady Deirdre of Carlyle, Lord Belgar Thorbjorn declared
that he would fight for Lady Katerina de Turenne, Lady Ceara ni Sirona
declared that she would fight for Lord Bergelmir Sigurdsson, Lord Edmund
Fitztonge of Kent declared that he would fight for Lady Aislinne, Duke
Finnvarr de Taahe declared that he would fight for Lady Ragni Dzintara of
Amberhall, Francis Pesket of Arundel declared that he would fight for Lady
Theophania Ivey of Carisbrooke, Lord Glenn of Caerleon declared that he
would fight for Lady Katerina de Turenne, Lord Glandyth Rhys-Mordwyn
declared that he would fight for Lady Hanorah O'Neil, Lord Llwellyn o'r
Glynne declared that he would fight for Baroness Enid Aurelia, Lord Reinald
Fitz Albert declared that he would fight for Lady Fionnghuala, Lord Robert
of Two Cliffs declared that he would fight for Mistress Tsivia bas Tamara,
Lady Searu Frid Dracwyn declared that she would fight for Gibson Mathie
Syme, Lord Tarver the Pole declared that he would fight for Lady Deirdre of
Carlyle, and Baron Torbin of Amberhall declared that he would fight for
Lady Aelflaeda fitz Alain; each stood forward and loudly declared his
Intent, and his intended Consort, and his reason for thus declaring. Yog
the Undesireable, who was not an Armiger, was loudly acclaimed by the
people in the Court, and so he joined those who could enter the tournament,
and Yog declared that he would fight for Lady Hanorah O'Neil.

Again, Queen Fern was present for the occasion, and many and great were the
awards: Yog the Undesireable received an Award of Arms on the spot "for
overcoming his name," as did Aethelwold o'Mercia, for his artistic talents
and his service as Seneschal of Eoforwic; both Lady Deirdre of Carlisle and
Sylard of Eagleshaven were received into the Order of the Purple fret for
interminable toil at unlovely tasks; Robert of Two Cliffs was received into
the Order of the Queen's Favour; and their Excellencies Aedan and Kaffa and
Baroness Enid were all received into the Order of the Dragon's Heart. the
great wisdom of Queen Fern was thunderously applauded when Lord Henry of
Linlithgow was elevated to the rank of Court Baron.

The most singular award of the night was the Award of Arms unto Claude de
la Beche, the token whereof was a knife graved in characters in Latin, and
set with a plate etched with his symbol, a Stag's Head Caboshed. The Latin
was composed by Rudrig; the rough blade was provided by Master Sylard; it
was ground, etched and hilted by Tarver; the oaken hilt was marked with the
Royal Initials, for both Herself and Valerius, by Queen Fern; these
initials were carved out and dyed by Baroness Kaffa; and Duke Finnvarr
graciously read the inscription aloud to the populace. When Claude was
called into Court, he was at first rather alarmed when the Queen solemnly
produced a huge knife, but as the good Duke read the words inscribed
thereon, he realized its meaning, and he was moved to tears at the beauty
of the thing. All marvelled at this sight.

And that night, in that Court, the feelings of pride and love there present
could have fuelled the very torches on the walls.

May A.S. XX
MCMLXXXV

On the IVth day of the month the Competition of the Arts and Sciences was
judged at Sternfeld, at the Coronation of Corin and Myfanwy. Olaf Tarverson
again claimed a first prize, but the overall winner of the competition was
Lady Tamarra Amalthea, and fortune dealt a double stroke, for that night in
Court was Lady Mordreth Colwyn elevated to the rank of Laurel for her skill
in the culinary arts, making her the fourth Peer of the Realm native to
Eoforwic, and the very first Master in this field.

There were at this time other things worthy of mention happening in the
Region. Upon the XVIIIth, House Eagleshaven sold off its surplus
possessions and established a permanent keep, and it was thought that the
Viking was becoming prosperous and content, despite his protestations
otherwise. Also, His Serene Grace, Sir Finnvarr de Taahe, was serving upon
the Board of Directors of the Society, which was seen as also making
Eoforwic of a class ranking highly with any good old town in the Known
World.

June A.S. XX
MCMLXXXV

On the IXth, the minstrels Steeleye Span performed in Eoforwic, along with
another ensemble called Fairport Convention; and of the many who went to
hear them, few will ever forget the peculiar rendition of Gaudete.

The second Murder Melee in the Meadow took place on the XXIInd day of the
month in Ben Dunfirth. Remembering the last year, the spot was chosen for
its hard earth, with the result that no one could drive a tent peg.

A Midsummer Feast of the Sun took place in Skraeling Althing on the XXIXth
day of this month. Eoforwic fighters made a good account of themselves, and
Maximillian Morganed of Glamorganshire, who had only very recently joined
their number, authorised in the lists. Lord Tarver emerged victorious using
a round shield which he had only finished making the day before, and the
prize was yet another piece of rattan. For a long time Gunnar of Lund and
Tarver the Pole had worked together on various projects, and around this
time Gunnar began to assist Tarver as his Man-at-Arms, but always more on
terms of friendship than of sworn fealty.

 

July A.S. XX
MCMLXXXV

On the XXth day of A.S. XX, Eoforwic celebrated its Xth Year, and
Ealdormere chose its Champion. Duke Finnvarr de Taahe, who was the first of
our Society in these lands, was the host of the day, and he did not fight
in the Championship tournament. he was aided in his work by a secret
committee of co-autocrats who tagged all of their works with purple ribbons,
 and only revealed themselves to him at Court.

Many Eoforings of yore did return from the four corners of (t)he world
whence they had travelled, including Queen Fern, Baroness Gillian, Sir
Mordain and his lady Aelfleda, Baroness Enid and Baron Henry, Lady Megan of
Silverthorne, and all of Finnvarr's illegitimate daughters. John the Churl
and Ugh were said to be nearby.

There was a museum of ancient relics displayed, and there to be seen were a
captured PACE banner emblazoned with an impaled guinnea pig, Aedan's Troll
nose, Gillian's ancient scepter and coronet, Sylard's Deed to the North
signed by King Finnvarr, a picture of a famous Western Duke attended by the
ladies of Eoforwic, Finnvarr's old gambeson and freon can helmet, the
earliest editions of Ursus which were then called Eoforing, dolls in the
likeness of Aedan and Kaffa, and many other priceless treasures.

The play Eoforwic Ten Years From Now was performed again, and at the feast
Fern reenacted her escape into the balcony, as Alistair Kirk lowered her a
ladder.

Yog and Glandeth were late arriving, and almost did not gain admittance to
the lists. This was the last appearance of Baron Torbin in the lists. As
this was an important tournament, all the rules were scrupulously followed,
and several shields were sawn down to 26" so that noone would have any
unfair advantage. One man took an unlucky blow to his most importance piece
of armour, and this could be heard all through the quadrangle, and many
looked up when they heard it, and that piece of armour was found to be
split in twain, and many who saw this nearly fainted in horror. Yog won the
tournament, undefeated, besting Lord Tarver and then Lord Belgar in the
last bouts. Belgar was killed with a thrust to the heart.

At the feast, each Canton served forth a splendid dish, and the hall was
filled with the joyous sounds of revelry and old friendships renewed and
new friendships begun. The high table was served a Lobster, but since this
food was a novelty to many sitting there, it required much explanation.

At Court, Yog and Hanorah were invested with the Collars as Champion and
Consort of Ealdormere. Aedan placed a collar on Yog's shoulders, and Enid
placed one on  Hannorah's, and all the Peers of Ealdormere stood by and
witnessed this.

The Collars were splendidly wrought by Mordreth with Sylard's assistance,
and they were richly embellished with the Tree of Life, with Livestock to
show the Wealth of the Land, and with Grain to show its Richness; there
were figures to show the People, Swords and Arrows to tell of the Strength
of Arms, and Scales to tell of the Strength of Justice; the Bear of
Septentria and the Rabbit of Skraeling Althing and the Wolf of Ealdormere
were inscribed thereon, as were all Four Elements, and many, many other
things.

Here ends the Second Book of the Chronicle of Eoforwic, in the tenth year
of its history, in the twentieth year of the Society, and in the one
thousand nine hundred and eighty fifth year of Mundane Reckoning.

Now Eoforwic has celebrated its Decennial festivities, and there is a
Region created within this land, with Eoforwic within its Environs, and
from the ranks of its populace a Champion and a Consort have been chosen,
and they shall defend the region's name throughout the Known World.

These events are of great moment, and make apparent the great times we live
in. Where once only barbarians lived, there has grown an expansive and
prospering folk; where both Arts and the Sciences flourish and grow apace;
where all are full fed and none may be seen beggars or wanting; where crops
and cattle grow bountiful; where combat is chivalrous and swords meet in
good cheer upon the field of honour; where lords and ladies may travel the
roads without fear of lawlessness; and where all good folk may lift their
voices and rejoice proudly.

As this book of the Chronicle of Eoforwic ends, it is to be hoped that
others shall rise to continue this history and set down the names and
places of those events that are yet to be, and make our glorious land that
which it is.

EXPLICIT LIBER EBORACENSIS HISTORIAE SECUNDUS. NOS, GUILLELMUS ET TREVARIUS,
 SCRIPSIMUS, CALAMO TRIBUS DIGITIS CONTENTO TOTUM CORPUS LABORAVIMUS. DEO
GRATIAS, AMEN.

Everything you've heard about Eoforwic is true.

The Third Book of
The Chronicle of Eoforwic
being
A Truly Written Account
of the Events of Moment
in the Canton of Eoforwic
from Earliest Times,
Including the History of the Founding
of the Crown Principality of Ealdormere

Written at the hand of
Hyrcanos ben Jacob Porto of Oporto

Printed with the aid of God in the City of Eoforwic
XXIII A.S.

The Chronicle of Eoforwic of Hyrcanos ben Jacob
Copyright (c) 1989 A.J.S. Nusbacher

With great respect and devotion do I, Hyrcanos the Judge the son of Jacob
Porto of Oporto, present this chronicle to my employer the Lord James
MacAndrews (of glorious name) in honour of his liege lord the Duke
Fionnbarr de Taahe, may he live for many good and long years. Long have I
laboured in its making, and long have I polished the bare innards of my
purse, preparing to honour the remuneration which must surely come.

I have read the past chronicles presented to Duke Fionbarr (may he live for
years that are good and long), that from Etienne de l'Isle, and that from
William of Roncesvalles and Trevarius (the Trierite). I have read the
histories compiled by the great Duke himself into the famous Tales of the
Midrealm Kings. I have read the histories of Orlandus Ambrosius. Now do I
attempt to make a chronicle of Eoforwic which combines a great deal of the
brevity and accuracy which befits a chronicle as well as some of the wonder
and glory which accompanies an history.

IVCCXL BCE, VCCVIJ AAS

In this year the World was created in six days. At this time the land of
Ealdormere was fashioned by God, separated from Northwoods by the Lakes of
St. Clair and Loggan Mor (see note 1), separated from the Cleft Lands and
the Middle Marches by the Silver Tarn (see note 2) and separated from the
East Kingdom by the Old Lake Ealdormere (see note 3) and by the River
Ottawa. Together these and other lakes are called the Middle Seas, for
while their water is sweet yet together they are as large as a sea, and
their waters as stormy and treacherous.

In this year were the stars created, and the astrologers group them into
constellations. And just as the land of Ealdormere was created as a
separate and distinct place so was the constellation Ealdormere set out in
the sky as a distinct creature of the heavens. And Ealdormere wears a belt
of three bright stars and some call her Orion the hunter.

IIICCL BCE, VCCXVJ AAS

In this year Adam died, and he was the first man. From him was descended
Noah, and from Noah was born Japheth. From Japheth came Ashchenaz and from
Ashchenaz came Zarphath, and from Zarphath came the line of de Taahe. Great
scions of that line have included King Fionbarr of the East, King Fionbarr
of the Middle, Sir Barinn de Taahe and Duke Fionbarr de Taahe (a righteous
gentile).Also from Japheth came the Trojans, and of the heroes of the
Trojans there was one Aeneas, who did found the City of Rome, and from him
were descended the Scoti, and whatever uneducated men may say, they were
descended from Adam through Eve his lawful wife and not through any other.
Others say that the Scoti are descended from Scota, the daughter of Pharaoh,
 who brought the Stone of Destiny from Egypt to Tara in Ireland and thence
to Scone in Scotland. From the Scoti sprang the line of Brian Boru, the
King of the Irish, and one of his lieutenants was the Baron Aedan of
Kincorra, the Baron Septentria. From the Scoti also sprang the line of the
kings of Connaught. And from this blood was born Maeve, Queen of Connaught,
and from her came Caffa Muiraith, the Baroness Septentria.

I CE, MCMLXVJ AAS, December

In this year Jesua ben Joseph was born in Bethlehem of Judaea, and the
Paynims call him a prophet and the Christians call him the son of God.

MCMLXVJ CE, I AS, May

In this year the Lists were made in the lands of the Mists in the West.

MCMLXXXV CE, XX AS, July

At this date the Seneschal of the Middle King was Countess Genevieve du
Vent Argent. the king's herald was Baron Charles O'Connor, who was the
first Baron of Knight's Crossing in Drachenwald. The mistress of Arts for
the Kingdom was Myrra of Blackwood, who was later the Seneschal. The Earl
Marshal was Sir Lucas Oswald Gustav Otto Stephan von Schnecke, called by
his initials Logos. The chronicler of the Kingdom was Siobhan Medbh
O'Roarke, of North Woods. Bardolf Ulfacson was the Chirurgeon General. The
Chancellor of the Exchequer was Robert MacGryffun, who sat his office for
many years.

At this date the Seneschal of Eoforwic was Aethelwold Mierca. His exchequer
was Jane of Hendon. The Knight-Marshal was Baroness Caffa, who would hold
that post for a long time, and the Mistress of the Lists was Genet of
Ashertor. The Mistress of Arts and chatelaine of novices was Dierdre
Carlyle, and the mistress of sciences was Mordreth Colwyn though she
concealed that. Eanor of Amberhall was chronicler. As was Eoforwic's wont,
there was no official chirurgeon, though many were skilled in physik and
surgery. The pursuivant was Tarver the Pole, though he soon turned the
sacred tattered baldrick of office over to James MacAndrews.

At this time was Elizabeth de Lom first seen, and the Saxon maiden Brithwin
of Wolfstead as well.

The chronicle of William of Roncesvalles and Trevarius has described the
day in the reign of the second Corin when Lord Iago, sometimes called Iag
or Yog the Undesirable, a Welshman (and thus called by his own people other
names, not pronuncible by the sons of man), won the tournament and was made
Champion of the Land of Ealdormere. His lady, Hannorah O'Neill, was known
at that time not only as a lady of great beauty and charm, but for openly
keeping Glandeth Rhysmordwen as a concubine. Since Glandeth and Iago were
great friends, there was no contention. As soon as the tournament ended,
Hannorah and Iago returned to Ben Dunfirth, and Hannorah commander her
ladies to spin scarlet wool into thread and plait that thread into cords,
that she might have tokens to give her people in times of war.

At this time James Macandrews was in the Holy Land, and he desired greatly
to know who had won the tournament and what had befallen that day in
Eoforwic. So James sent messengers from the desert monastery where he lived,
 to go to Rhiannon of Wye who lived near the place of the tournament. And
Rhiannon of Wye was engaged in the general f?ete in honour of Iago, and she
was not at home. So the messengers came back empty-handed, having merely
left messages nailed to her door. then James sent a message to Tech na
Cerdchad M?oire, the Baron's house, to know what had come to pass. And the
Baron and Baroness were caught up in the f?ete, and they were not at home.
But Fionn, Aedan's son, was at home, and he told the news.

That night in Judaea there were seen many falling stars. James consulted
the wise men o the land, and though some said that stars always fell in
July others said it was an omen and a dire one indeed.

MCMLXXXV CE, XX AS, August

In this month did Corin the Sun-king (the second Corin) lead the array of
the Middle into battle against Morguhn the Sheridan, King of the East, the
first of that name. In this war did Corin's army defeat the East in the
woods, and it is aid that after the victory Corin's countenance did shine
like the sun for which he was named. In a battle on a bridge, the East was
affrighted by the serried ranks of the Middle, and did withdraw. They hoped
to draw the Middle forces across the bridge, and press the Middle against
the raging river beneath. But the forces of the Middle, including the men
of Ealdormere who chanted for beer and who were whipped into lust for blood
by Naon's drummers, were held in check. And Duke Siegfried and Master
Kobayashi and Duke Aonghais Dubh issued out from the Eastern array and did
attempt to break the bridge with their swords and bare hands, but to no
avail. In the battle on the field there was much carnage, and when the dust
cleared, there were but two men standing from the Middle, and they were
James mac Art of Tree-girt-sea and Iago, the Champion of Ealdormere. And
the Easterners allowed them single combat, and James mac Art was killed.
One after the next Iag slew his foes until he was too weary to fight more.
And on the field that day Corin the King awarded Iag the Dragon's Tooth.

At this war the soldiers of Septentria first wore the crimson tabards made
by Domenica of the Welfengau that had the golden bears upon them, and they
did carry the plaited cords of scarlet which Hannorah and her ladies made.
They marched out in shining array, with drummers playing the cadence on
broad Irish drums. And in the field they were led by Iago, and under Iago
were Baron Aedan and Sir Mordain Blackcloak who had been Sir Fionbarr's
squire before. At this war did the Septentrians begin the tradition of
forming the majority of the royal guard, and Charles of Hamme did first
stand guard at this war and for many hours.

At this war did Amanda of Walworth, a squire of Count Tadashi's Dreadnought
household in North Woods, convince James Macandrews to fight for the Middle
rather than the East, and James Macandrews was forsworn of his command of
the Eastern banner rangers for the love of his lady, and for one year he
dared not look Duke Hasdrubal in the eye, for that duke, stout of heart
though narrow of limb, had been General of the Eastern armies at this war.
At this war did Constance of Purneos pitch her tent with Ealdormere as did
Barak ben David, called Red. And the love of the people of  Ealdormere for
Constance grew. And there were great downpourings of rain at the war and
many were soaked. And the miserable were succoured, by Tamarra de Romany
and Frederic l'Avare, who set out hot food and drink for the weary and wet
in their tent, and by Gunnar Halfdan who did the same in service to Tarver,
Fionnbarr's squire.

At this war was Robert of Two Cliffs made a Master of the Laurel, and there
was much rejoycing. Also was Fern made knight, and for her there was such
cheering that the hall in which court was held was near unto falling in
upon itself. Tarver the Pole was made a companion of the Silver Oak. And
soon after court was Alistair Kirk made squire to Countess Fern.

MCMLXXXV CE, XX AS, September

As had been their ancient custom, now the citizens of Eoforwic exhibited
their skills and works at the walls of the White Tower that is also called
Fort Book. Once they held their display at Philosopher's Walk, but in AS
XIX the Queen of Albion had been visiting Eoforwic on the day of the
display, and in the interest of space and transport the Eoforings moved.
>From that time until AS XXII, the display was held at the White Tower. In
AS XXIII the site was moved to the common before King's College, in order
that the Eoforings might assist the University in bettering relations
between town and gown.

In this month the Welfengau held a Tournament of Romance, and unto the most
promising fighter did Lord Iago give a sword and a gauntlet and this became
a custom of his to give the most promising fighter a sword and gauntlet.
The swords were known by the red enamelled hilts, and the gauntlets by the
brass decoration that marked them as Glandeth's work. And Robyyan of
Elandris, one of the last to bear the name of that fierce and noble house,
and Countess Fern and Amanda came from North Woods.

Now at this tournament there was a feast, and at this feast there was a
contest to see which of the ladies could flirt, leer and wink the best, a
most unseemly competition. The judge of the competition was to be a bishop.
Tsivia of Amberview, of Skraeling Althing, entered this competition. "This
man cannot be a priest," she said unto herself, "for no bishop would
consent to judge such an unseemly competition. This man must needs be an
impostor." And so Tsivia pitched woo with great vigour, aiding her case
with a curious pomander she had fashioned from a cucumber and some cloves,
though some say it was with a pickled onion decorated with a single clove.
Only when she had coaxed the bishop into very intimate circumstances did
she desist. Later that even, she had cause for shame when she discovered
that while not a bishop, the priest was indeed a genuine man of the Cloth.
And there was much mirth on this account.

In this month the Shire of Noergate hosted a fall fair, and many attended,
even some from Eoforwic.

In this month Angharad of Nankivel came from the Midlands to Eoforwic,
having heard of the scholarship of the Great University of Saint George and
of the power and knowledge of Duke Fionbarr. She had heard tales of
Fionnbarr's greatness and wisdom at the table of her uncle, the Duke
Moonwulf Stakaaderson. At this time Tarver the Pole departed to study the
Trivium and Quadrivium at the small university in Rising Waters. Although
he was seen occasionally thereafter, there was nonetheless much sadness at
his departure. Soon after this time did Sir Mordain Blackcloak and Aelfleda
fitz Alain his lady leave Skraeling Althing to live in An Tir, where
Mordain would study siege guns and engines.

MCMLXXXV CE, XX AS, October

In this month Alen Elegil claimed the throne from Corin and Myfanwy. At his
last court Corin awarded arms to James Macandrews while Tamarra de Romany
received the Purple Fret. James contrived that she would receive the award
in Eoforwic at the same time as it was awarded in Gwyntarian. At that same
court, a dog was made a lord, and comparison was made by some between Corin
and the Emperor Gaius, who raised an horse to the rank of consul. At about
the same time, Siegfried was crowned king in the East, the third of that
name to rule that land.

Soon after the coronation, the folk of Rising Waters held their Feast of
Bacchus and Duchess Kunegunda came from the Rhydderich Hael, and she
brought the Hens, her ladies. And John of Slaughterfield came to a feast
for the first time, for while John had long attended tournaments, he had
been of ascetic bent, and would retire to meditation after the fighting. It
was at this feast that he developed great admiration for the Duchess. At
this tournament there was joy for a nearby alewife still brewed her Brown
Mead after the ancient fashion of North Woods and not after the new fashion,
 and many bought her mead. This was the time when the Guild of Imps,
founded by Rhiannon gan g'Wye in January, celebrated its last meeting.
Seeing in her wisdom that the mirth had gone from the game, Rhiannon
disbanded the guild soon after.

In this month there was a Crown Tournament in the Roaring Wastes to choose
a successor for Alen. The tournament was held in a barbarous section of the
town, and there was much fear of barbarian bandits. Palymar fought Dag
Thorgrimsson, who is lately called Svartvargr, in the final round and was
victor and prince, and there was much mirth among the squires of the
kingdom that two squires should battle for the Crown, with a pile of the
bodies of knights rotting beside. Baron Aedan and Duke Fionnbarr fought in
the tournament as well, and did great honour to Baroness Caffa and Lady
Ragni.

Soon before Crown Tournament, the guild of merchants in Leaside in Eoforwic
paid the exchequer of Eoforwic a great deal of money to have the Eoforings
revel and fight on their high street. And at a theatre on that high street
was appearing the actor Atkinson, who made popular the gestes of Edmund
Blackadder. But this was early in the career of Atkinson, and the Eoforings
knew him not.

In the next month, Richard Tempeste came to Eoforwic. Now Richard was a
friend to Etienne, who was chamberlain to John of Slaughterfield. Richard
was a hearty fellow with many tales to tell of his years in foreign armies
before he came to Eoforwic.

MCMLXXXVJ CE, XX AS, January

Rising Waters hosted a feast on Twelfth Night, and Prince Palymar came. On
his return from the feast, he was attacked by bandits and though none of
the enemy survived, his carriage was destroyed. This was taken by some as a
sign of favour from God, and by some as an ill omen indeed. It was
fortunate for Prince Palymar that his lady, the Princess Katherine, was a
prudent woman. For she, for(e)seeing this sort of danger, had prevailed
upon Palymar to wager with a local bookmaker that just this sort of
misfortune would befall him. Since the odds of this misfortune were long,
Prince Palymar paid only a little while the bookmaker wagered the entire
value of the wagon. So in the end, though Palymar lost his carriage, he won
his wager.

Constance of Purneos came to the feast. At this feast there appeared a lady
named Anne Cr?eveuve whom no one knew, but whom some said was a friend of
Constance's who came with her from Purneos, while some said she was kin to
James Macandrews. Catherine de Guise and Elsbeth of Sherbourne came to Vest
Yorvik at this time, and this Twelfth Night celebration was their first.
Here did the Baron and Baroness award to Ricard of Sable Tree the Cauldron
of Ceridwyn to keep for a year in honour of his inspiration of the folk of
the Barony to both gentle and warlike pursuits, and his contribution to the
great Game of the society.

In this month, Eoforwic celebrated Twelfth Night at Cumberland House, and
Deirdre Carlyle was the lady of the hall. James MacAndrews was Lord of
Misrule and Lady Angharad was Lady of Misrule. Some said Deirdre had
contrived this, but all knew that the choice had been that of chance, by
the ancient method of baking a bean into one of a lot of cakes. Belisarius
toadied splendidly and Baron Torbin was the Royal Banner, and he banned
many things. These revels were the last to be heard in Ealdormere for a
time to come.

As had been the custom from of old, the king and queen celebrated the
twelfth night of Christmas at North Woods, and there was Dag made knight.
The noble Brenainn of Roscommon, who was later Buckler Herald and Trillium
Herald, as ennobled as well.

And James and Tarver and Angharad and Rhiannon did go to W?urm Wald for the
Festival of Maidens, and many unseemly things did happen. And James's
banner was adjudged the best in the hall. On their long journey there was a
great storm and much hardship. At this tournament did James first carry the
Baroness's favour. He set the favour down when John of Slaughterfield was
made Champion of Septentria.


MCMLXXXVJ CE, XX AS, February

Vest Yorvik held a Tournament of Love in this month, and many gentles came
to the College at Erin Dale to fight. At this tournament it was decided by
Fionnaidh Averylle, the Trillium Herald, that the generative organs of the
Septentrian bear ought to be tinctured azure.

MCMLXXXVJ CE, XX AS, March

At the beginning of this month many malevolent omens were seen. There was a
great plague amongst the livestock which caused them to grow thin and
resemble ferrets. There was a cloud upon the land, and the frost was colder
than even the oldest Septentrian could remember. The star called Comet was
not seen, and though some sages considered Comet a bad omen, others said
that Comet's not coming was itself  a bad omen. There was an outbreak of
leprosy in the hinterlands near Skraeling Althing, and several towns had to
be burned. This, all agreed, was a bad omen.

Towards the end of this month the Baron of the Rhydderich Hael invited all
to come to his lands for the annual tournament of the Passing of the Ice
Dragon. Many from Eoforwic and Ealdormere travelled to the Rhydderich Hael,
braving the winter storms and the avaricious bandits who haunt the bridges
near Rising Waters. Word was out that Prince Palymar would be there, and
since many rightly accounted him a friend of Ealdormere, many attended
merely to see him.

Now some weeks before the tournament, while King Alen Elegil was sitting in
council in his keep near the Great University at Cynnabar, there came to
him two letters. One latter came from Lady Hannorah, consort to Iago the
Champion of Ealdormere. The letter concerned various citizens of Ealdormere
and their worthiness for royal honours. The other letter came from James
Macandrews, and it was a request that the Land of Ealdormere be made a
Crown Principality, after the manner of the Crown Principalities of the
West Kingdom (see note 4). King Alen went to his closest advisors and
friends, and said "Who are these of Ealdormere? Who is this champion? He
swears me no fealty, nor to my barons, yet his lady would be arbiter of
honours as though she were queen! Who is this Macandrews? He would take a
subject province and turn it into a separate realm to stand against me! No,
they go too far!" And King Alen's advisors agreed. So King Alen sent
messengers to all his council and told them that Ealdormere did rise in
revolt. He proposed to outlaw the "regions" which had been the names for
the lands of the Middle. No more could Northshield be Northshield or
Ealdormere be Ealdormere, and none could utter the names of the regions on
pain of high treason. No more could the lands have their own champions.
Some said that he wished to take this action from the start, and that he
only awaited an excuse, but cooler heads said he acted in the heat of the
moment at the promptings of his advisors. Now his council heard is words,
and agreed that the regions of the Middle, Ealdormere in particular, must
be laid low.

The king called a meeting of the bare minimum of his council at his keep,
and since it was so quickly called this meeting has been called the
"Washroom Curia" based on the fiction that the King held court in his
garderobe with only his intimates.

Prince Palymar came, on his way to the Rhydderich Hael. The king's
seneschale came, the Countess Genevieve, and Isabella the Queen. Some say
others came as well, and some say that Mistress Graidhne, the Pale Herald,
was there. The council agreed that the king's will would be done (see note
5), and Prince Palymar was dispatched to tell the folk of Ealdormere since
they loved him well, and would not feel the hurt of the degree so much an
it came from their beloved Prince.

So, two weeks and two days later, at the Ice Dragon tournament, when the
fighting had ended though the feast had not yet begun, the heralds called
all folk of Ealdormere to a small chamber, where Mistress Graidhne and
Prince Palymar was waiting. Genevieve, King Alen's seneschal, was at the
tournament but she disdained to address the folk as well. There Graidhne
and Palymar told the nobles and gentles of Ealdormere of the king's
decision, and they were confused. Some waxed wroth and shouted that an
injustice had been done. Some were sad and cried freely, rending their
garments in sorrow that their land was treated so ill. Others merely sat
quietly and asked why the king had not first asked them to mend their ways
before punishing them.

That night and all the next day the folk of Ealdormere wended their way
back home in sorrow to a land that could no longer bear its name. It was a
black day in Septentria and in Skraeling Althing there was no joy. Wailing
could be heard throughout the land. It was not that they were so concerned
with a name, nor the champion; for all knew that these things were but
bagatelles which could be adopted or discarded at will. What caused them to
cry was the meanness of spirit which had been directed against them by
those whom they thought were friends, compatriots and comrades in arms.

In this month was James Macandrews stripped of the office of Eoforwic
Pursuivant by the Dragon Herald, Baron Charles O'Connor. Charles gave as
his reason that James was an herald in the East Kingdom, though even
Charles himself knew that was no longer so. Wise men said that Charles had
been instructed by the King himself to so punish James for proposing that
Ealdormere be made a Crown Principality. And some in Eoforwic said that the
post should be left vacant in protest, but James said that this would hurt
the commonwealth of Eoforwic and do their enemies no harm. And so Angharad
was made Eoforwic Pursuivant.

MCMLXXXVJ CE, XX AS, April

In this month was the great judging of the arts and sciences in Eoforwic
for all of Ealdormere. And Fern came, and there was revelry though it was
subdued. And the collars of the office of the Champion of Ealdormere and
his consort were both displayed. At the feast the Baron caused to be read a
tragic tale called "The Doom of Ealdormere," concerning the betrayal and
death of the heroine Ealdormere. And Alistair Kirk read the tale, and in
all the hall no eye was dry (see note 6).

Later in this month there was a tournament in the Middle Marches and some
from Eoforwic travelled there. And at court afterwards did King Alen relax
the kingdom's census requirement for principalities. And a wise woman said
that this was an invitation for Ealdormere to become a principality (see
note 7).

MCMLXXXVJ CE, XXJ AS, May

On the very eve of this month and the few days preceding was the
celebration of the twentieth year of the Society. The celebration was in
Ansteorra, and it was a great hardship and expense to travel there, but
from Eoforwic Frederic and Tamarra travelled thence, as did Duke Fionnbarr
and his lady, Ragni Dzintara. From elsewhere in Ealdormere went several,
including Mistress Tsivia, Fionnaidh Averylle, Dathi Thorfinsson, and
Cerdic o Cuilamhan. And there was a great storm there, and Frederic and
Tamarra's tent was cast down. It was then that Frederic resolved that he
would have a vast pavilion that would never be cast down save when he
willed it. And on his return to Eoforwic he began to employ tradesmen in
the crafting of the pavilion. The great pavilion of Frederic l'Avare took
nearly a year to complete, and although it was not ready for the next
Pennsic War, it was completed for the one after.

In this month was Palymar crowned King of the Middle at W?urm Wald. And
there was a great tournament fought among groups of eight men, and the
group of House de Taahe included Count Nathan von Daritz who had rarely
been seen in the years before the tournament, Ranthulfr Asparlundr and
others, as well as James and Tarver. Frederic l'Avare and Tamarra his lady
came, and when James was injured, Tamarra provided soothing salve which was
made from the fat of puppies. At this coronation there was a great judging
of the arts by various nobles. Tamarra was adjudged the Arts Champion of
the Middle. James Macandrews was adjudged the best at calligraphy, and his
team-mate Ranthulfr was adjudged the best at illumination. Many others of
Ealdormere were adjudged to have submitted entries that were of the finest.
Thomas the Mailer, then of Rivenstar, entered gloves crafted of mail so
fine that many assumed them to have been made by machine. At this time
Sigridr R?ognvaldsd?ottir was first seen, and she was Tarver's lady.

Later in this month was there a tournament held at Carraig Ban to ensure
the succession, and Emrys of Gwyntarion was the victor and he was made
Crown Prince. His Princess was Emmelynne, who was named for Emmelynne who
had been queen to Alen I.

At this time the fair of Doon, near to Dubhras, was first held there;
before it had been held at Barrie (see note 8). Now did the folk of
Eoforwic and Vest Yorvik and Ben Dunfirth and the Welfengau meet there and
celebrate with the folk of the fair. And the folk of the fair gave the
Septentrians ale in return for protecting the site of the fair by night.

 

MCMLXXXVJ CE, XXJ AS, June

In this month Palymar the King and Katherine his Queen came to Septentria
seeking soldiers to fight with the unbelted champions at the upcoming war.
And there was a great tournament of teams at Ben Dunfirth in the Dunmark
Park near Ancaster, and at this tournament many great deeds were done. The
winners of the tournament were the King and his friends who travelled with
him for they were fell fighters indeed, and Emmelynne the Princess fought
with them. The de Taahe team gained great honour for their courtesy, and
they were invited to fight with the unbelted champions, and they were given
tokens of favour by the Queen herself. And the team consisted of Finnvarr's
squires James, Tarver, and Alasdair of Raasey, Alasdair's man Alaric de
Brus called Cato, and John of Slaughterfield, who fought with the de Taahes
for love rather than fealty.

Baroness Caffa gained some renown for her crying out in no uncertain terms
to Michel d'Arques to stand and fight, and many nobles were entered into
orders of honour. Angharad of Nankivel was admitted to the Order of the
Willow for her needlework, and because of the mysterious heraldic ceremony
just prior to the court she was more than a bit inebriated. Charles of
Hamme was ennobled, and John of Slaughterfield and many others. Belisarius
of Anatolikon was ennobled for his "frank service" to Eoforwic, a
left-handed compliment from the Crown, for to a Greek the appellation Frank
is no honour. Maximilian Morganed of the Baron's house was ennobled, as was
Marigha ni Sean de Sianan, who was also called Liana. Glandeth Rhysmordwen
was made a companion of the Silver Oak, Deirdre of Carlyle was entered as a
companion of the Queen's Favour and both Tamarra de Romany and Fionnaidh
Averylle were created members of the noble order of the Dragon's Heart. And
at this time, the Kingdom Spear of the Middle was given to the Baroness of
Skraeling Althing to keep. And Michaele del Vaga, the Exchequer of the
whole Society came, and with her from Thescorre James Macandrews's cousins
Friedrich and Oriana and their family with them.

In Skraeling Althing was there a midsummer's revel, and there was fought a
tournament to select a champion for all of Septentria, Skraeling Althing
and Noergate. And this would be a champion for all of Ealdormere though he
would not be called such. And John of Slaughterfield was the victor and
champion, and Dierdre of Carlyle was the lady for whom he fought. An John
was Champion of Ealdormere for a long time thereafter.

So after this, Tarver the Pole and Charles of Hamme and Monika z Gniezno
departed for Drachenwald and Tarver travelled further to the lands beyond,
those of the Iron Curtain, where the boar-hunting was good. His search for
boar carried him past the borders of Poland and even into the lands of the
Rus, who were a fierce people, not keen on hunters poaching their game.
Fortunately for Tarver the Rus did not find him. Tarver claimed these
latter lands of the Iron Curtain for the Middle King, and returned with
much amber.

MCMLXXXVJ CE, XXJ AS, July

In this month Robert of Two Cliffs and Jane of Hendon did host a feast in
commemoration of the Battle of Hastings. It was a hot day indeed, in combat
as well as in weather, though it ended in rain.

And Rosanne came from the North Woods, and Robert fitz Hugh of Bannockburn
came, and from that time on were he and his lady famous friends with
Bronwyn Meredith and Lothar von W?ulfing of Eoforwic.

At this time did Deirdre of Carlyle resign her office as Mistress of Arts
and Chatelaine of Novices. Angharad of Nankivel took up the office, and
resigned as Eoforwic Pursuivant. Belisarius of Anatolikon took up the
ancient felt baldric of the pursuivant's office.

MCMLXXXVJ AD, XXJ AS, August

Early in this month, Branwen o'r Gelli Aur was first seen in Vest Yorvik,
and she would later come to Eoforwic.

Late in this month, King Palymar led the Middle to war against Ronald the
King of the East on the Pennsic fields. It came to pass that once again
that valiant warrior the Duke Laurelen Darksbane, the Baron of the
Cleftlands, was asked by the generals whom he would have under his command.
And he said the folk of Septentria, for the Septentrians had done well by
him in past wars. So the Septentrians fought in the Woods with Duke
Laurelen; and although he was a fighter full fell, sin that he knew little
of proper deployment the Septentrians were slaughtered, though their lives
they sold dearly indeed. And sin that he did not reinforce the Septentrians,
 the banner and the battle were lost. In a battle on an open field, the
East attempted to deploy in maniples, after the fashion of the Romans, but
their lack of discipline betrayed them. Their left flank, in trying to
sweep the Midrealm right, was trapped between the forces of Septentria and
Calontir, the latter of which had defected to the side of the Middle from
the opposing army. In attempting to flee from their predicament, the
eastern left ran directly into the forces of Myrkfaelinn, led by John the
Pell. There was much slaughter and the Easterners died to a man.

Now John the Pell was a great lord, and the virtual ruler of Myrkfaelinn in
the East Kingdom, site of Wriotheseley Hall, seat of great learning. And
Myrkfaelinn was a great demesne, verily the size of a barony; and there was
the shop of Robert de la Mante, the greatest armourer in the known world.
Once, many years before, the eastern king had offered to make Myrkfaelinn a
barony and John a baron, and he refused. He was no baron, he said, only a
simple soldier. Besides, he preferred not to be bound by fealty, and he and
his men fought for whom they list. Years later another king offered to make
John a baron of his court, but John would have none of it, for he was a
modest man, though very generous. Only much later did a king finally
disprove the Pell's contention that he was but a modest soldier by giving
him the accolade, and so was the valiant John the Pell made a peer of the
Eastrealm.

At Pennsic court King Palymar made Mistress Graidhne a baroness of his
court, and all were much pleased by this. And Myrra of Black Wood, who had
once been the mistress of arts for all the kingdom, was made a Mistress of
the Pelican. The same court was an occasion of glory for Septentria since
Queen Katherine created Caffa a Mistress of the Laurel for her service to
the Arts, and there was much rejoycing, and she was showered with laurel
leaves. From court she was dragged to a conclave of the laurels, and there
se was held in converse while elsewhere her people did rejoyce in her
honour. With the Septentrians was their friend Aelred, a Master of the
Laurel who had no truck with these conclaves; and he did go unto the
conclave, and he did cry that Baroness Caffa's people had need of her. So
she left the meeting and joined in the merriment.

Once again did the Septentrians form the greater part of the royal guard,
this year standing watch to the exclusion of almost all others, and this
year did Septentrian heralds take up most of the duties of royal encampment
herald. Soon after did Vittoria Riola first come to Vest Yorvik.

MCMLXXXVJ AD, XXJ AS, September

The Universitas Gryphonica was held this month in the Welfengau, and much
was learned. And Chengir and Akivasha his lady came from Thescorre to the
university, and they brought some of their Eastern ways. Chengir was one of
the many Eastern rebels who fought with Septentria against their own king.
Another of these was called Ursus, for he was truly built like a bear.
Gladly did the Baron give him a bear tabard for the duration of the war.

As had been the custom, the canton of Eoforwic did display their arts and
their military skill at the walls of the White Tower that is called Fort
Book, and it rained and it was cold. Sin that the Eoforings had expected
rain, some asked what they would do in event of a downpour. Here Baron
Torbin answered, saying, "get wet, of course," and all acknowledged his
wisdom.

MCMLXXXVJ AD, XXJ AS, October

In this month was Emrys crowned king, and Emmelynne queen with him. In the
East was Sebastian the Juggler-King crowned and with him Sirillian his
queen. Soon after, at Crown Tournament in Tyrnewidd, was Talymar made Crown
Prince, and Eislinn was made Princess. At about this time did Duke
Fionnbarr close his house in Eoforwic, and move his family to a vast
holding in Mount Albert near Newmarket.

Vittoria and Branwen did begin to frequent the meetings in Eoforwic at this
time. Now these two ladies were persons of great beauty, but also of
learning and skill. In particular were they known as scribes and
illuminators.

MCMLXXXVJ AD, XXJ AS, November

On the kalends of this month, King Emrys came to Rising Waters for the
Feast of Bacchus. And there was a great tournament, and there was a great
feast. And King Emrys held court, and there Thomas Uroshima was made
companion of the Silver Oak, and James MacAndrews was made companion of the
Willow. John of Slaughterfield was here made Queen's Champion and here was
the Spear of the Middle Kingdom given to Septentria to keep, the shaft that
lost its head but had it restored.

At this time was the Feast of the Hare celebrated at Skraeling Althing.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXJ AS, January

The celebration of the Twelfth Night of Christmas was conducted now in
several places on several dates. The Baron celebrated the day in
Trinovantia, on a day with much gaming and gambling. Here was the Cauldron
of Ceridwen passed on to Robert of Two Cliffs. On another day, the
Eoforings celebrated at the hall of the Lochac Merchants, and many came
from Vest Yorvik. And there was a great game to determine the King and
Queen of Fools, and Elsbeth's sister, a child from Vest Yorvik, was
adjudged the victress. And Grimwulf the Hairy was her consort, sin that he
had been next to the victor in the estimation of those gathered there. And
many forfeits were paid by many gentles, and Tarver danced his Slavic dance
of the seven veils, and many were glad. Elsbeth of Sherbourne came to
Eoforwic in this month. Deirdre Carlyle was here gravely displeased by the
conduct of one gentle, and was seen much less hereafter.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXJ AS, April

After an hiatus of several years, the folk of Starleaf Gate held their
feast in honour of the dog Clancy. And there was a tournament held in an
hall at the foot of the bridge to North Woods, and Dag won the tournament.
There, at night, there was a court, and King Emrys and Queen Emmelynne
presided with a portrait of the dog Clancy between them. Arthur ap Idwal
was there awarded arms, and so was Shoni Otomo. There also was Tamarra
Amalthea de Romany elevated to the Order of the Laurel, and made a peer of
the realm, and there was joy for they all loved Tamarra well.

Now was the time that the folk of Ealdormere were wont to hold their great
judging of the arts, so that the best examples of craft and cunning could
be sent to the great judging for all the kingdom. In this year, however,
the competition for the kingdom was not to be held. Some said that the
rules needed to be rewritten to make them more suitable, but others said
that the rules needed to be rewritten to give the folk from outside
Ealdormere a chance at winning, for in truth the folk of Ealdormere did
well at this competition, far out of proportion to their numbers. Some from
other parts of the Kingdom said that the folk of Ealdormere were different
in that they were cutthroats in competition, and thus they did well in the
competitive atmosphere of the kingdom contest; others said the judges of
Ealdormere were lenient in judging works to be sent to the kingdom's
contest. Wiser heads said that the folk of Ealdormere were just the same as
the folk of elsewhere in the kingdom, only more concerned with the arts
than their compatriots from outside Ealdormere, and thus they were more
often the victors. In the end the rules were changed little, and the
kingdom competition was resumed the following year. In this year, however,
Master Sylard issued a challenge to all the known world to compete at the
arts and sciences at Eoforwic, and several came from the Rhydderich Hael
and Myrkfaelinn and other places, and though the display was smaller than
usual, many good works were shown.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXJ AS, May

In this month was the third King Talymar crowned, and with him Queen
Eislinn. And Eislinn was mortally ill, though by some miracle she survived
to reign for many months. later in this month, the Crown Tournament was
fought, and the final bout as between Eliahu ben Itzhak and Dag
Thorgrimsson, both of Cynnabar. And Eliahu won, and he was made Crown
Prince.

And in the East was Randall crowned king, and his fiery lady Marieke
besides. And these were no strangers in the North, for Randall came often
to Skraeling Althing and to Dragon Dormant in the East from his keep at the
Northern Outpost.

It was now that the Canton of Steinbach was first formed on the banks of
the Stony Creek near Ben Dunfirth.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXJ AS, June

Eliahu the Prince came to Ben Dunfirth for the war exercises there, and the
wind and sun were harsh as always. One night, by the light of the torches
and with many a tankard of ale and butt of wine accounted for, Baron Aedan
and Baroness Caffa took W?ulf Borisson and Edward Ungearu into their house
as men-at-arms.

And in Skraeling Althing there was a Midsummer's masque. At this time did
Elizabeth of Cadfan, called Kestrell by all, first come to Eoforwic.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXJ AS, July

Early in this month there was a school held in the Welfengau called
"Collegium Terpsichore," named for the Terpsichorean Muse of Dance. Tsvetan
Arnisson was the host and many strange new dances were taught, and one
Mistress Ellen the Fair came from far away to teach. Also came Johannes
Pelskneippe of Andelcrag.

Aethelwold Mierca hosted a tournament this month at the Great University.
And the day was in remembrance of the Hundred Years' War. King Talymar came,
 and since he was a modest man he travelled in no great state. And when he
came, Belisarius did help him carry his goods from his wagon, and he wot
not who this bearded southron was, and when James did tell him, he fell on
his face and wept for he had not shown proper reverence for a king, and the
king did forgive him.

In the evening, in the quadrangle at Trinity College, Talymar did hold
court, and Fionnaidh Averylle was herald. And Grimwulf the Hairy was
ennobled, and Etienne de chez Tonnerre had done good service for the King
that day and he was awarded a purse of monies. And Edward of Norwich was
ennobled and was seen little in Eoforwic after. Agnar the Goth was made a
lord, after many years of service, and many said that it was such a long
wait because Agnar was wont to change his name, and each time he changed it
he must earn a reputation from the beginning. Catherine de Guise and Mungo
Sheepshanks from West Yorvik were ennobled and so was Ambrosius Providus of
Ben Dunfirth. And Monika z Gniezno was the seneschal and she was awarded
the purple fret. This tournament was the first appearance of Arwen St.
Amour.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXIJ AS, August

And in this month did Talymar III wage war against Randall the King of the
East, and he swept all before him. And the folk of Ealdormere fought
valiantly and well, and this was the manner of it. The Easterners did
attack on an open field, and they were beaten soundly by Talymar, whose
forces outnumbered the easterners seven for every five. And the foe did
retreat to a redoubtable mountain pass. And Talymar did pursue, and his
Calontiri allies pressed hard on the foe, and there was much sweating of
blood and water. And the Calontiris had one of the bakers in the nearby
town deliver cheese pies for to refresh themselves during the battle. The
soldiers of the Middle pushed surely up the slope, driving all before them
until the Eastern rearguard was no more. In this Roncesvalles died Morgan
Elandris who had come out from a long retirement to fight for the
outnumbered Randall. And Duke Hasdrubal was grieved full sore, not that his
old shieldmate and commander was dead but that she died by the hand of
another and he himself did not slay her.

And the Easterners did retreat unto a wood, and the forces of the Middle
were ready to follow, but Talymar held up his hand. "My friends," said
Talymar, "Wait here. For we now not where the Eastern king and his banners
are." And into the woods he sent an hundred scouts, and several soldiers.
And the scouts did seek the banners of the East, and the soldiers did seek
to vex the easterners by engaging them and then fleeing. And the Eoforings
marched into battle beneath the mascot of an ugly cat nailed to a pole. The
cat was called "Bill" sin that he resembled a polearm (see note 9). And
just when the Eastern banner had been discovered, and the armies of the
Middle were marching to retrieve it, the buzzing of myriad bees tore the
forest, and a great cloud of stinging insects rose from the ground. And the
armies both left the woods lest they die dishonourably from an insect's
poison.

In this war the armies of the Middle outnumbered those of the East seven
for every five, though some said eight for every five, and this was the way
of it. King Talymar sent abroad an ambassador, one Sir Ton the Traveller,
an old soldier who was become a professional legate. The year before he had
been the ambassador of the Atlantean king to King Palymar. Now King Talymar
sent Sir Ton forth, to negotiate alliance with the kings from afar. And Ton
offered them ale in quantity and he offered them cakes to feed them at the
War. In the end, every kingdom that sent soldiers to the Pennsic fields
allied itself with the Middle against the East. Every kingdom save one, for
Hanno, who had been king of the East in the winter of AS XIX, was an
adventurer. And Hanno was become King of Caid, and he allied his new
kingdom with the East. This was no shame for the Middle, sin that he
supported an old loyalty and sin that few fighters indeed came from Caid to
Pennsia. Only the sheer numbers of the fecund Easterners allowed them even
to approach the numbers of the Midrealm allied force. The King of Trimaris
was persuaded to fight with the East, but only in exchange for a choice
place for his encampment. Position of encampment has been a point of strong
contention since of old, and many recall the incident in which Harald
Hardradi gained a choice place on high ground for the camping of his
Varangian guard, and that he did it by sharp practice. So the king
consented, and the Trimarians chose the place where the Septentrians had
camped for many years. And the Septentrians were forced to camp on an
exposed hillside, and John of Slaughterfield built a castle in the swamp.

Now in the days before the battles, a squire called Galen of Newark from
the Midlands rose up and called all of the squires of the Middle Kingdom to
him, and called them his friends. And Galen called for them to join him in
a guard to honour Eislinn the Queen. And he spoke movingly, and the squires
shed tears of emotion. This it was planned that some squires and their men
would guard Eislinn's person during the day, and others whose knights were
away would fight under the Queen's banner on the field. And Sir Fern
commanded the Queen's Guard, for she was the Queen's Champion. And in the
Queen's Guard were James Macandrews and his man Belisarius; and Alistair
Kirk, and his men Shoni Otomo and Grimwulf the Hairy. And the men of Petrea
Thule in Ealdormere, who were great of stature and of skill were in the
guard as well. And those of the Guard who fought under Eislinn's banner
fought well, killed many and died like men. And when the fighting was done,
Queen Eislinn made them all companions of the order of the Queen's Favour,
and soon after their reign was the order closed, and since then instead
there has been made an award of the Doe's Grace, which is not an order. The
folk of Petrea Thule rejoyced for they had not theretofore been of noble
estate, but now as companions of the Queen's Favour they were noble men and
armigers.

And at this war did Tamarra have a great bath-tub, and there was much
rejoycing for from a clean body comes a clean mind, as all men know. And
Eislinn did come to bathe there, and the ladies of Ealdormere did strew
flowers in the water for her. And after her bath, and although many bathed
there afterwards, Eislinn had made the water clean and pure and the flowers
did not die.

And Sigridr Rognvaldsdottir was ennobled, for Tarver had petitioned Talymar
on her behalf. And Alexandra Kingslea was ennobled, for she followed the
example of the Saints and washed the clothes if not the feet of the poor.
Susannah the Unyielding and her son Cennedi, both of Skraeling Althing,
were ennobled then, and Dathi Thorfinnson of Rising Waters was awarded the
Purple Fret. And Kyril Andreieskevitch was made a companion of the Willow,
and the record of that award was scribed upon a chain made of paper. The
scouts of the Middle Kingdom were granted a badge of a purple fretty for
their service in battle. Reynard de Folche of Rising Waters was made a
companion of the Dragon's Tooth for his fell skill at archery. Tamarra de
Romany and Frederic l'Avare were entered into the order of the Queen's
Favour by Queen Eislinn. And that same time Queen Eislinn did create Aedan
o Kincorra, the Baron of Septentria, a Master of the Laurel for his
scholarly researches in the brewing of beer; and the hall shook with
congratulation. It was at this war that Talymar first convened the order of
the Dragon's em, and the name was a cant on the badge which was a dragon's
jamb. And the order was for young folk who distinguished themselves by
their service. And Lord Mungo Sheepshanks, Lady Eanor of Amberhall and Lord
Jacob ben Solomon were created the first companions of the order. Soon
after was the name of the order changed.

The Middle were adjudged the victors of the war wherefore Talymar III has
since been called Orienticus Maximus, that is the Greatest Conqueror of the
Easterners. This is to distinguish him from Talymar II Orienticus, who had
been the last King of the Middle to defeat the East at Pennsic, seven years
before.

There have been those who have called this war "the magic time," but wise
men know that the glory and majesty of Eislinn's War, in which the united
kingdoms of the Known World, with the exception of Caid, stood in
opposition to the eastern menace was not magic. It was the gentilesse and
courtesye and dignitas of the King and Queen, and the heart-breaking love
of poor doomed Eislinn that made this glory and made this majesty. It was
no magic, but it was the virtues of humanity.

And the glory of Talymar and Eislinn shone on Ealdormere, and there was
pride there in service and pride in honourable death on the field. And
Ealdormere was a justly proud nation then.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXIJ AS, September

Now King Talymar had made a vow that he would pass within an hundred miles
of every habitation in the Middle Kingdom on his progresses. And in this
month did he come to Skraeling Althing, and afterward to Vest Yorvik, where
the archers were practicing their skill. And Talymar held court there, and
James MacAndrews was herald. There was Elsbeth of Sherbourne ennobled.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXIJ AS, October

Talymar and Eislinn ended their reign peacefully, and Eliahu II ascended
the throne and with him Elen his queen. And they were crowned in Cynnabar,
where they lived. Here was Eislinn made a duchess. Too was Myrddin Llygoden
created a companion of the Silver Oak.

At the end of the month did King Eliahu call a crown tournament to be held
at the College of Grey Gargoyles neat the Tree-Girt-Sea. And amongst the
others he invited my lord James Macandrews, his brother squire Tarver the
Pole, Baron Aedan, Robert of Two Cliffs, John of Slaughterfield and
Bealdgar Thorbjornsson of the Welfengau who was squire to Sir Reynard the
Brown. The administration of his barony weighed heavily on Aedan, however,
and the distance to Tree-Girt-Sea was further than Robert wanted to travel,
and they stayed in Septentria. And there was a day of mighty combat, and
while Tarver and James each won a fight, they were soon eliminated. John of
Slaughterfield survived longer, laying many opponents low, but Bealdgar
Thorbjornsson lasted the longest of all the Septentrians, and there was
much whispering as Reynard himself laid him low that Bealdgar would soon be
made a Knight of the Society. Soon Reynard was eliminated as well, and he
hastened off at the news that one of his squires had been wounded in combat
elsewhere. Before the day was done there was much grumbling that the
marshals interfered too much in the fighting, and that they fancied
themselves judges rather than marshals. And the Septentrians noticed this,
and so did Comes Valerius Paencalvus who told them of a custom in his own
barony. There the marshals are separated from the lists by a second list
rope so that they could not interfere. The idea found favour in the eyes of
the Eoforings there, and they swore that at the next tournament in Eoforwic
this custom would be followed, and it was.

The final rounds of the tournament were fought between Corwin Dragonstar, a
Norse master at arms from the Midlands, and another Norse master, one Einar
Haakonson. Now it was known of Corwin that many years before, in Crown
Tournament, he had been eliminated by his own hand, when a wild blow spun
around and caught him in the head before he could stop it. So it was to his
great satisfaction and the wonder of all that he killed Einar, and was made
Prince.

During the day word came from Rising Waters to Fionnaidh Averylle who was
the Dragon herald that her mother had died. There was much weeping and fond
reminiscing of Mary Campbell of Inverary. And Tsvetaan said that he would
dance in the lady's memory, but there was no dancing.

At court that eve a lord from Cynnabar made a gift of monies to the crown,
and he cried out in court the amount, and many of the Septentrians were
pained for this common, merchantlike mention of sums. But King Eliahu
betrayed no notice, and received the gift with royal grace, portending a
reign of felicity and happiness throughout the Kingdom and in Ealdormere.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXIJ AS, November

In this month did the Canton of Rising Waters hold its Feast of Bacchus.
Also did the Barony of Skraeling Althing celebrate the Feast of the Hare.
As well, the Canton of Trinovantia held a feast and King Eliahu was there.
There he awarded arms to Dvorah bat Itzhak ha Levy, to Etienne de chez
Tonnerre, to Madeleine de l'Este, to Richard Tempeste and to Vittoria
Riola.

MCMLXXXVIJ AD, XXIJ AS, December

And it was during this reign that the Canton of Rising Waters and the
Canton of Ben Dunfirth sought to join with the Canton of Steinbach to form
a barony, and the Baron and Baroness Septentria knew that this would be a
good thing, sin that their lands were grown too large and their people too
populous for them to administer with full justice. But the King's Seneschal,
 Baron Thrym Odomsson who was called Cein, said that the custom of the
Middle Kingdom was that a canton must first become a shire before it could
become a barony, although none had heard of this tradition before. And
Baron Aedan said, rightly, that the Seneschal sought to rule in place of
the king, by dictating what customs were. And the King knew this too, and
he waxed full wroth for this and other reasons. And King Eliahu and Queen
Elen spake unto Baron Thrym in this month, at the Feast of the Boar's Head
at Caer Anterth, and they told him that for three months he would be on
probation, and that did he displease them within that time he would be
dispossessed of his position.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIJ AS, January

In this month did the Baron celebrate Twelfth Night at the hall of the
Hansa at Vest Yorvik. Here was held a moot of all of Ealdormere, and
Katrina di Turenne presided, along with the Baron and Baroness Septentria
who wore shoes which were curiously shaped to resemble bears' paws. At this
mot was it resolved that the folk of Ealdormere would see their own prince
set up to rule their land for the King of the Middle. Also was there held a
polling of the populace on this matter, but it was not conclusive. Here in
Vest Yorvik, Baron Aedan held court in the name of the king as his
lieutenant. And Branwen and Guillaume and Elizabeth de Lom were ennobled.
And Robert of Two Cliffs and Angharad were awarded the royal badge of the
Purple Fret. the Cauldron of Ceridwen was awarded for a year's tenure to
Duke Talymar and Duchess Eislinn, and wise folk adjudged this to be a good
choice.

At about this time did Bronwyn Meredith, the wife of Lothar W?ulfing deliver
a girl child, and she was called Ceara. Soon after this was the canton
saddened by Robert of Two Cliffs's departure with Jane of Hendon his lady.
To Hibernia they hied, so that Robert could pursue his calling as a limner.
And it was in the tradition of his house that he went, for his knight Sir
Mark von dem Falkensfenn did hie him to Africa once for the teaching of the
art of silversmithing to the savages there. And Corwin the Pure took up the
office of exchequer from Jane.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIJ AS, February

It was in this month that the canker which tortured Duchess Eislinn became
too painful for her to bear, and she gave up the ghost. May peace be upon
her, and may she come to her just share in the world to come.

Eoforwic welcomed Sara Mac Lean this month, and she was Richard Tempeste's
lady.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIJ AS, March

In this month there was a competition of the arts and sciences at Skraeling
Althing, and Sarra Graeham, a new immigrant from Seashire who lived in
Greyfells on the ruins of Castle Royal, won great honour. And she proceeded
to make a thriving canton in Greyfells. Anthaea Lovat first came to
Eoforwic at this time.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIJ AS, April

At the Clancy Day feast at Starleaf Gate, King Eliahu made Bealdgar
Thorbjornsson of the Welfengau a Knight of the Society, and in Septentria
there was much joy for few Septentrians had been knighted before. The first
Septentrian knight was Fionnbarr, who was knighted in Northwoods first by
Thorvald in Grimmi and then by King Iriel and who was the seventh knight of
the Middle Kingdom. The next was his squire Hugo von Feuerklippe, who was
the first native of Eoforwic to be a knight of the Society. Seamus was a
knight from elsewhere who moved to An Tir after a stay in Eoforwic, and he
was later king of An Tir under a different name. And Torbin was Seamus's'
squire, so was Artair mac Artair of Afon Araf. Mordain Blackcloak was the
next knight, and he was Fionnbarr's squire. After that Hasdrubal came to
Ealdormere and he had been a knight in the East Kingdom. At the time
Bealdgar was knighted there were but the two dukes, Hasdrubal and Fionnbarr
to stand as Knights of the Society in Ealdormere.

Also here was Kestrell Cadfan awarded arms.

At this time, the King instructed Thrym Odomsson that he ought to nominate
a successor, and that the successor ought to be Myrra de Blackwoode. And
like Belshazzar, Thrym saw the writing on the wall; and like Daniel, he
could read it. So Thrym Odomsson appointed Myrra of Blackwoode to be his
successor, and then he resigned his position as the King's Seneschal. In
Ealdormere, where he was seen as the last of a dynasty of seneschals, the
same dynasty that produced Genevieve and the Washroom Curia, there was
contentment. Now Rising Waters was furthered in its desire to be a barony,
and Myrra, a sympathetic lady with many friends in Ealdormere was
Seneschal.

 

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIIJ AS, May

Now was the crown given unto Corwin Dragonstar, and unto his lady, Shoshana
Taleh who was called by all Shana. And the coronation was in the Shire of
Shattered Crystal, many days' journey from Eoforwic; on the very edge of
the Great River facing Calontir. Vittoria Riola, who had lived in Vest
Yorvik but who spent a great deal of time in Eoforwic, and Branwen and
Guilhelm de la Plegn made the journey, and so did Cospatric of Annan Water
and Madeleine de l'Este.

And soon after there was a Crown Tournament in the Middle Marches. And
several from Eoforwic went, including some of the finest dancers from the
canton who sought honour for their skills. And the honour was won. And many
prayed that Sir Reynard the Brown of Northwoods (called by some the Forest
Fox) would be the victor, sin that he was stout of soul and limb, kind of
heart and a great man indeed; and also that his lady was a woman of
generous spirit, gladsome mien and vast scholarship. The victory was given
to Reynard, and although the custom of the Society forbade attributing
victory in the lists to the Divine, so did James MacAndrews make bold to
do. And Reynard was made Prince and Brynhildr was made Princess, and all
the kingdom was glad.

And at near the same time was Earl Gavin Kilkenny of Kilcarren crowned King
of the East, and he was the second Gavin to rule in that kingdom. And King
Gavin's queen was Sedalia McNair, a large and fierce Irishwoman, whose name
was the same as that Sedalia who had ruled years before as consort to King
Viktor.

In this May were the Eoforings invited to play a play for the townsfolk, as
one of a cycle of plays from an unknown English town. And Shoni did direct
the players in the play of Cain and Abel. And Arthur ap Idwal was God, and
Aedan was Adam and Grimwulf was Abel and James was Cain. And folk from
Cynnabar and even from Ansteorra came to act other plays in the cycle. Many
of the Eoforings came out to see the plays and to dance and to revel, for
the days were fine indeed.

In memory of Mary Campbell of Inverary, the Canton of Rising Waters hosted
a tournament and feast. And the prize for the tournament was a great silver
rose bowl, to be engraved with the victor's name and to kept for a year.
And at this tournament of the roses was there a lieutenancy court, and
Aedan and Kaffa represented the King and Queen. They awarded arms to Arwen
St. Amour, Wülf Borisson, Cormar mac an Bhaird and Edward the Unready. They
awarded Gunnar of Lund and Genet of Ashertor the Purple Fret, they created
Madeleine de l'Este a companion of the Willow and Aedan created himself, by
the King's order, a companion of the Dragon's Barb. And Duke Talymar came
from his lands and feasted with the Septentrians.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIIJ AS, June

Genet of Ashertor ended her days in Eoforwic, and she departed for her old
home in Lancashire, and there was sadness. Now did the Canton of Ben
Dunfirth hold its annual war practice. And Reynard the Prince and Brynhildr
the Princess and their entourage did progress from Northwoods to Dunmark
near Ancaster. There in Dunmark there was much fighting, and howling winds,
and hot sun, and swimming in the lake. And there was merriment.

The Eoforwic Musicians began to play together at this time, under the
tutelage of Rudrig mac Erc.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIIJ AS, July

In the month of July it was warmed than any summer previous, and there was
a great drought. It was said that all the soil of Calontir had turned to
dust, and likewise the soil near Myrgan Wood and westward unto Borealis.
But the famine was not so heavy that many starved; and all the nobles and
gentles had plenty to eat and drink. And it was the warmest summer in
living memory.

In this warm summer month did Etienne de Chez Tonnerre hold him a
tournament and feast in the quadrangle of University College. And great
misfortune came upon the planning of the feast, and the castellan of
Strachan Hall, which the Eoforings had been wont to feast in for years,
gave the hall instead to the feast of a wedding in the church that adjoined
the hall, there at Trinity College. So Shoni Otomo did cause a feast to be
cooked over an open fire in the quadrangle, and Etienne caused tables to be
brought, and there was merriment. During the day there was tourneying and
James MacAndrews caused a game of foot-ball to be played with a ball made
by Arthur ap Idwal. And there was much tearing of clothing and rolling on
the round, and some blood as well. And there was a game with rats to be
thrown through holes in a board, and an archery target as well. And Anthaea
succoured the thirsty with a drink made from lemons, brought from Trimaris
at great expense. Tarver came with timbers and bolts, and set up a
trebuchet in the quadrangle, and he used it to throw some of the rats from
the game. Kestrell of Cadfan brought her falconer, to demonstrate the art
of the birds. And one of the falcons became lost, and although the falconer
did find it atop The White Tower, it took the rest of the day to coax the
hawk down. The falconer had a vulture as well, and at the feast it sat upon
Rudrig's plate, and upon another man's pate. And the feast was delectable,
and many were surfeited. Sin that the day was so warm, many became sated
quickly, and there was much beef and many gallons of brandied peaches
remaining when the feasters were done. So Duke Fionnbarr did cause his
slaveys to collect the spare hogsheads of peaches and joints of beef, to
put in his waggon to be taken back to his holding on Mount Albert, where
they would be preserved for winter.

Later in the month several Eoforings journeyed southwards to the Debatable
Lands, to a tournament in honour of Queen Sedalia's birthday. There they
guested with Tsvia who came oft to Ealdormere to visit. And it was a hot
day in the Debatable Lands, half so hot as boiling water. And there also
from the Midrealm was Graidhne ni Ruadh and some of her friends. At the
beginning of the day, as Sedalia sat to watch the fighters compete to be
her guard at Pennsic War, for she sought to fight there, James came into
her presence and offered her a dozen roses on behalf of his house. And he
said that even the queen of so pathetic and provincial kingdom as the East
did deserve the roses due her estate. And in court, as James and John the
Pell drank smoke outside the hall they heard Mistress Graidhne presenting
the War Arrow to King Gavin as of old. And King Gavin accepted the arrow
from the Middle, calling that august kingdom a provincial principality,
mocking James's earlier words of mockery. For, King Gavin claimed, the
Middle was once, for a quarter of an hour, a principality of the East.
Legal scholars discount this, however, saying that sin no Eastern King's
writ ever ran in the Middle, and sin that no Eastern king e'er collected
taxes west of the Debatable Lands, the Middle was a principality in name
only and not in the sight of God and man. And Mistress Graidhne presented
Queen Sedalia with candied strawberries in honour of her birthday. And in
all that day which was to honour the Eastern Queen's birthday only James
and Graidhne gave her gifts, and they were not her subjects.

At that court was a lord knighted who knew Duke Fionnbarr from of old, and
his name was Alaric Basiliscus. And sin that "Basiliscus" be the Greek word
for King, the heralds said long before that he ought not to call himself
Alaric Basiliscus, for it meant "King Alaric." So, since the heralds were
concerned with the writing of a name and not its speaking, his patent of
arms read "Alaric Smith," though it was pronounced "Basiliscus." And many
said that it made no difference to Sir Alaric for he was an unlettered
gladiator.

MCMLXXXVIIJ AD, XXIIJ AS, August

Now once again did the Middle Kingdom march to war with the East. And it
was the hottest war in memory, and hardly a drop of rain did fall, and only
on the last night did it grow cold. And the Middle Kingdom fought well, and
though their belted champions were ignominiously defeated (only Duke
Fionnbarr and Duke Hasdrubal fighting well), and though the Woods Battle
was lost, the Middle yet emerged victorious. And the Woods Battle was lost
thus. It had been the custom of long years standing for the armies to
parade their banners before entering the woods, so that their rivals would
know them. It had also been the custom of the Easterners for many years to
carry many banners in the woods, to confuse the Midrealm. Indeed, there was
great currency once in the east to the tale of King Hugo leading a great
army against the disciplined troops of Morgan Elandris, mistaking their
black banner for the eastern purpure. So this year, the East did not parade
their banner, and they displayed many banners in the woods, and the
Midrealm scouts were confused. So it was a long while before the Midrealm
officers knew where the banner was, and it was on the same high place where
Septentria had held and lost the banner so many years before. And sin that
there were no generals to lead the soldiers of the Middle, the soldiers
marched a great distance to come to the high place, and they discovered
that they were attacking across a steep gully. And the Eastern soldiers
were standing on the brow of the opposite side, though the Prince of
Drachenwald made a glorious foray through the bottom of the ravine. And the
soldiers of the Midrealm attacked furiously, and they died in their
hundreds. And the dry sands of Pennsia were watered with gore, and the
bottom of the gully did flow red with a brook of blood. After the battle,
Duke Talymar sent ale to the enemy to ransom the banner of the King of
Ansteorra. On the battle of the bridges was there much carnage, and Prince
Reynard had to be restrained by his squires from charging into the affray.
After a great interval of some skirmishing and a great deal of waiting, a
mighty force of the Middle broke through the Eastern wall, and there was a
slaughter of the Easterners. When only five were left with their lives, one
was Cedric the Trimarian who bore the banner of his King, being dragged
through the dust as he clung to the banner pole. And just as several
Midrealm soldiers were about to cleave him from nave to chops and take from
him the banner, master Feral von Halstern, General of the East, did
surrender. He did not wish such valiant survivors to be slaughtered. So
Cedric and his comrades were held prisoner and ransomed.

It came to pass at this war that Graidhne did speak with Fionnaidh Averylle,
 who was the Dragon Herald, and they said that the King, and the King's
Seneschal might agree at that very court to create a Principality of
Ealdormere. First Fionnaidh Averylle did call on Graidhne to procure a
charter. And Graidhne called on James MacAndrews, and asked him to draught
a charter for a crown principality, and in him there was great joy for he
had proposed this once before, as Graidhne well knew. And he did draw up a
charter, and he did pass it to Graidhne, and she was pleased. And she did
pass it to Fionnaidh Averylle, who was pleased. And Fionnaidh Averylle did
pass it to Myrra of Black Wood, who was pleased. And Myrra of Black Wood
did go unto the King, and did beg to be allowed to have a charter draughted
for a Crown Principality in Ealdormere, for it is the way of kings that
they prefer to believe all good ideas to be their own. And the King
assented, and the King's Council did discuss the charter, and make some
amends, and they did discuss the charter with Baron Aedan and Baroness
Caffa, and with Baroness Enid of Skraeling Althing. When this was done,
they consulted the Steward of the Society, Sir Hilary of Serendip, and Sir
Hilary did assent, and it was she who many years ago first suggested the
idea of Crown Principality to James. And then they called upon Kyril
Andreyeskevitch to scriven the charter, and this he did. And at the great
court of Pennsic War did Corwin, the King of the Middle create himself the
Prince of Ealdormere, and his queen the Princess. And they allowed their
heirs to be styled the Prince and Princess of Ealdormere. And they created
Aedan the Lord Lieutenant of Ealdormere, and Enid Aurelia the Lady
Lieutenant. And both Baron Aedan and Baroness Enid were granted seats on
the King's Council. And there was light and happiness and rejoycing and
glee, and the folk of Ealdormere shouted for joy and the folk of the Known
World shouted with them. And if any were gnashing their teeth in envy or
spite they could not be heard in that happy bedlam. And in the Septentrian
camp there was much shouting and drinking of healths, and the cry "Wes
Hael" rang out from many throats, accompanied by the gurgling of many
bottles of ale, of aquavit and of wine. And Duke Eliahu and Duchess Elen
came, and Duke Cariadoc and others. Thorin, King of An Tir, who had once
lived in Ealdormere under the name of Sir Seamus was there, and the King of
the Middle sent word that the folk of Ealdormere need not take up their
perennial guard posts, though a Septentrian stood guard that night as
always. The noble Duke Fionnbarr danced a gigue that night, and he was
sober as a judge: It was elation and nothing else that motivated him to
dance around the fire. Just above the horizon, ascending towards her place
in the winter sky was Ealdormere. And she heard the parts of her secret
heart crying out in jubilation from among her people, and she was glad too.
And the parts of Ealdormere's heart that had been scattered were once again
joined never to be sundered. And all was right in the sight of God and man.

ADDITAMENTA

1. Letter to the Crown prince and several members of the Curia Regis

21 January, A.S. X, A.D. MCMLXXXVI

To all unto whom these presents shall come does the Lord James MacAndrews
send his Greetings.

I make the following proposal for Ealdormere.

§ I propose that the Crown of the Middle Kingdom create a Crown
Principality with borders contiguous with the borders of H.M. Elizabeth II,
the Queen of Canada's Province of Ontario.

§ This principality, to be called Ealdormere, will be a principality whose
officers shall report to the appropriate officers of the Middle Kingdom.

§ Ealdormere's prince shall be the Sovereign of the Middle Kingdom, who
shall add "Prince of Ealdormere" to his other titles and styles. The Queen
of the Middle Kingdom shall be additionally styled Princess of Ealdormere.

§ It might also be done that the Crown Prince of the Middle Kingdom be
styled the Prince of Ealdormere either by courtesy of his predecessor or by
right, with his consort styled the Princess of Ealdormere.

§ Ealdormere's prince shall call a great tourney, at which the yeomen,
squires, and chivalry of Ealdormere shall contend in a manner approved by
the Moot of Ealdormere. the winner of this tourney shall be appointed by
Royal warrant to be the prince's Viceroy of Ealdormere. The Viceroy's lady
shall be appointed by Royal warrant as the Vicereine of Ealdormere. In the
event that a lady shall win this tournament, the styles shall be reversed,
with the winner of the tourney styled the Vicereine and the lord she
champions styled the Viceroy.

§ The Viceroy shall embody the Crown. His voice shall be the voice of the
crown, as shall the voice of his Trillium Herald. the office of the Viceroy
shall carry with it a Grant of Arms, placing the Viceroy in the Order of
Precedence just ahead of the territorial barons, and just behind the
peerage. The viceroy shall be styled "his Highness the Lord Blank of Blank
by Right of the Crown Viceroy for his Majesty (or Royal Highness), the
Prince of Ealdormere."

§ The Viceroy shall have the power to award, grant or issue by letters
patent arms on the authority of the Crown. The Viceroy shall have the power
on that same Crown authority to elevate into Kingdom orders, or confer
Kingdom awards. On specific orders of the Crown, the Viceroy shall grant
peerages.

§ The power of the Barons of Ealdormere shall devolve from the Crown,
through the Prince of Ealdormere, and through the Viceroy. This shall not
restrict the feudal rights of barons to directly advise the king and to
expect direct aid and succour from the king in times of trouble, for the
Viceroy will not hold Ealdormere in fief from the Prince of Ealdormere, but
rather will merely embody the sovereign of Ealdormere.

§ The Viceroy shall be the ceremonial head of the Crown Principality of
Ealdormere, and thus shall bear the arms and honours of the Crown
Principality during his tenure.

§ Upon stepping down from the Viceregal throne, the former Viceroy might be
entered into a kingdom-level order comprising exclusively those who have
served as Viceroy or Vicereine of Ealdormere.

§ The current awards for service to the Champion and Consort shall become
Crown principality awards for service to the Viceroy and Vicereine. The
Crown Principality might confer its own awards on the direct authority of
the Viceroy and Vicereine in their capacities as ceremonial heads of the
Crown Principality. the Crown principality will continue to maintain the
Orders of the Middle Kingdom.

§ The Ursus, now the journal of the Region of Ealdormere, will become the
journal of the Crown Principality.

Submitted under my hand in my personal capacity as a noble of the Region of
 Ealdormere in the Middle Kingdom, at the House of the Five in Eoforwic,
Septentria

James Mac Andrews

2. The Pale, April A.S. XX, A.D. MCMLXXXVI
The Ban on Regions

This is copied precisely from the Pale, including many errors in syntax and
spelling. The torturous language seems to indicate haste in preparing the
announcement.

>From the Crown

At the  Curia Regis held on March 8, A.S. XX in the March of Gwyntarian,
the main topic of discussion was the undesirable effects which have been
occurring because of "Regionalism" within the Kingdom. The Crown recognizes
that most of what has been done in the attempt to develop "Regions" has
proceeded from the best of motives. We support any efforts to foster
cooperation among groups for the benefit of the Kingdom and the Society,
however events have demonstrated that the deveopment of "Regions" with
their own names and officials outside of the official structure of the
Kingdom often leads to results which are detrimental rather than beneficial
regardless of the desire of most people in the "Regions".

The foremost of these detrimental effects is factionalism, beside the
geographical area with its own name which creates the impression of a real
group, however "unofficial" promoters profess it to be. The "Regional
identity" which a name fosters has been misused as well. In the past it has
gone as far as "Regional official" urging the people within their region to
devote their talents and energies exclusively to the region rather than to
benefit the Kingdom as a whole.

The second detrimental effect is that of the spread of misinformation as to
the way that the Society and the Kingdom work and what groups are official.
Several newsletter inform their readers that the groups are part of the
"Region of X" and list the "Regional officers". Recently a "Regional
Championship" has caused problems in two separate areas, with the "Regional
Champion" being claimed to posess more power and prerogatives than
consistant with Kingdom Law and Corpora. The danger in these claims lies to
a great extent in the dissension they cause and offcers seeking to uphold
Kingdom Law must inevitably conflict with those propounding such claims.

Accordingly a NEW KINGDOM LAW is now in effect:

Article XV 550 - No geographic area other than a group officially
recognised by the Kingdom Seneschal may use a name or have a champion. (All
groups currently listed in the Middle Kingdom Collegium Seneschallorum are
officially recognized by the Kingdom Seneschal).

The possibility of merely defining what a "Region" could or could not do
was discussed, however to do so would be to give official status to the
"Regions" and it was decided that the dangers of this far outweigh the
advantages which would come from the "Regional identity," increased
cooperation within the "Region." The Curia strongly feels that cooperation
between groups is possible within the present Official Kingdom structure
and that just as much can be accomplished this way as could be in a
"Region" but without attendant dangers.

Again, be it known that we wish to encourage cooperation between groups,
especially in forming large fighting units for the Pennsic War. However
this cooperation must be done within the official structure of the Kingdom.

For the Middle,

Elegil Isabella R.

Note: The above kingdom Law was listed in the Laws of the Middle Kingdom,
Eliahu II, as XIV-700, with slightly different wording. No data is
available as to when either version was proclaimed. Per Law II-101 laws
must be proclaimed in court as well as published in the Pale, but no
requirement exists for publishing the data of the court proclamation in the
newsletter. -- Hyrcanos

3. The Pale, May, A.S. XXI, A.D. MCMLXXXVI

New Kingdom Law

XV-600: Prospective Principalities must reach and maintain a level of at
least 125 sustaining plus 50 additional memberships.

Elegil Rex Isabella Regina Genevieve Seneschal

Note: The above Kingdom Law was listed in the Laws of the Middle Kingdom,
Eliahu II, as XIV-600. This is a reduction of the minimum Midrealm
requirement for principality, though the number continued to exceed the
Society's minimum. -- Hyrcanos

4. Story: The Doom of Ealdormere

The Doom of Ealdormere

Many tales are told of the young hero Ealdormere, but the strangest tale
told is the tale of her birth; for they say that she did not come to be in
the usual way, but that this was the way of it:

The wise and mighty of the land desired to draw together the people, to
make their land strong and glorious. For this they needed a hero, yet none
was in evidence, and the omens foretold none to be soon born. Thus they
resolved to create their own.

They drew her spirit and flesh from the land itself, from its wide skies
and waters, from its forests and fields, and from its hard, enduring stone
and soft, fertile earth. Each woman and man of them gave of their own
strength, and at length a perfect infant lay before them.

All the people were called to her naming, and from the highest lord to the
lowest churl they came. Not only the people, but also the hare, the wolf,
and the bear came to represent the beasts of field and forest. Then each
gave a gift that suited their means. the hare gave her cunning and
fleetness of foot, the wolf gave his unstinting loyalty, and the bear gave
his slow wisdom and great strength.

But while the people rejoyced, the first of the Three who sit by the well
and work the loom of the World called to her sisters, saying, "Look, here
is a hank laid ready for spinning that I never carded. Someone is joggling
our elbows." Then they grew angry, and cast about for the mischiefmaker.

At length they noticed the people celebrating, and marked the newborn babe.
The youngest of the Three said, "Here are those who would make themselves
our equals. Sisters, let us teach them a lesson. I see that they are giving
gifts. Let us each give a gift also, and gifts that they shall rue."

Thus it came about that Ealdormere received three bright gifts and three
dark gifts all on the same day.

The first bright gift that the wise and mighty gave was a good mind and a
steady hand, that she might be a great artisan; the first dark gift that
the Three gave was this: Though she might create great wonders, yet nothing
she did would outlast her.

The second gift was a strong back and a keen eye, that she might be a great
archer; the second dark gift the Three gave was this: However true her
shafts might fly, they would never diminish the number of her enemies.

the third gift the wise and mighty gave was a glad heart and a generous
hand, that she might always have friends; the last and bitterest dark gift
was this: Though she might have a multitude of friends, yet none would
stand by her I her hour of extremity.

This is the tale of her birth and many more are told of her youth; how when
she could barely walk she had grown too large for any house, and that while
still a maid she had followed her King to war and done valiant deeds.

They tell how her people loved her, for she was not haughty, but noble and
worshipful; and her honour was bright like a mirror, wherein they saw their
own honour reflected bright.

Of her end no one knows the true tale, but only that on a day in that
season when the hint of Spring first raises hopes and the fast following
frost dashes them, word came from the king that Ealdormere was no more.

Some say that in her youthful rashness, she sounded her challenge before
the gates of the bright gods themselves and was cast down in ruin; but one
among the gods took pity on her brave heart and her beauty and raised her
to the heavens. They say that on a winter night, when the clear sky brings
biting frost, you can see her high in the southern sky, her sword at her
side, guarding the borders of the land that she loves.

Others say that she was not slain at all, but laid under an enchantment of
sleep, wherein she does not age, and at their hour of greatest need she
shall awake and lead her people.

However true these tales may be we cannot know, but we do know that one
thing is true. Before Ealdormere left, she drew forth her secret heart, and
breaking it into a multitude of pieces, she gave a bit to each of her
people to safeguard. And whenever a person is moved to speak of Ealdormere,
and whenever the listeners are moved by what they hear, it is one piece of
her secret heart that speaks, and the others listen.

Aedan

5. The Pale, October A.S. XXIII, A.D. MCMLXXXVIIJ
The Ealdormere Charter

>From Their Majesties

We, Corwyn, by right of arms and law Sovereign of the Middle kingdom and
Master of the Noble Order of Chivalry, ruler from the frozen banks of the
Ottawa unto the mud of the Great River and Shana, Queen of Love and Beauty,
our Consort and Patroness of the Arts and Sciences, sitting in Court and
Council and upon the considered advice of our Heirs, Prince Reynard and
Princess Brynhildr, Our noble peers, Duke Talymar and Duchess Eislinn, Duke
Eliahu and Duchess Elen and our Great Officers of State do issue by these
presents a Charter of Command and Consent.

Recognising the unity of purpose and contributions that the people of the
northern reaches have given unto our Kingdom, by our command and consent do
we create the land comprising the Barony of Septentria, the Barony of
Skraeling Althing and the Shire of Noergate, and any baronies, shires and
colleges that may in future be created within those lands as the Crown
Principality of Ealdormere. They shall stand in fealty and homage to the
Crown of the Middle.

By our command and consent do we, as King and Queen of the Midrealm
recognize ourself and our queen as Prince and Princess and Sovereign of the
Crown Principality of Ealdormere.

By our command and consent do we assign by courtesy the titles Prince and
Princess of Ealdormere to our heirs, the Crown Prince and Princess of the
Middle Kingdom.

By our command and grant will we create a Lord and Lady Lieutenant to
administer Ealdormere in our names and at the Crown's pleasure. Upon
completion of their service, at the discretion of the Crown, we shall award
unto them a Grant of Arms.

By our command will the Lord and Lady Lieutenant, in consultation with our
Officers of State create a Council of the Crown in Ealdormere, to include
those deputies of Kingdom Officers whose purview includes Ealdormere, and
our barons and baronesses and peers who reside within its boundaries.

Done to the greater glory of the Middle Kingdom and the Society, in the
name of Chivalry, Courtesy and the ideals we hold dear, in this our Court
and Council, this 20th day of August, in this the 23rd year of the Society
in testimony whereof we have affixed our seal.

Corwyn Rex Shana Regina


NOTES to Book Three of the Chronicles of Eoforwic:

Note 1: The Loggan More is usually identified with Lake Huron.

Note 2: The Silver Tarn is one of the recorded names of Lake Erie.

Note 3: The Ealdormere or Elder Mere is Lake Ontario.

Note 4: See additamentum #1, below.

Note 5: See Additamentum #2, below.

Note 6: See Additamentum #4, below.

Note 7: See Additamentum #3, below.

Note 8: Where once the town of Dubras stood now stands the town of Bryniau
Twynnog, sometimes called Burning Log Twinky Doodle.

Note 9: There is no note 9.