Recitation Of the History Of the Axe Of Heroes

by Master Hector of the Black Height

Lord Rannulf Smith of West Yorvik, Ealdormere forged the axe. Also he was a noted bastard-swordsman in his day.

Baron Corwyn Galbraith of Ealdormere, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra, Current Baron of Septentria in Ealdormere, married to Domhnail (#17) crafted the axe haft in his workshop. He also first used the axe, to split wood for a carved spoon.

Lord Grimwulf the Hairy of Ealdormere, was the third owner of the axe. He is the second-finest field commander Septentria has ever produced (the finest is Baron Aeden o Kincora, who taught Grimwulf).

Fourth to own the axe was Duke Barak Hasdrubal the Carthaginian, Knight of Ealdormere. A Duke of the Eastrealm, one of the finest battle commanders ever at the Pennsic Wars, particularly in the woods.

Viscount Mordain Blackcloak, Knight of Ealdormere, the fifth to carry the axe. Warlord of Ealdormere’s forces at Pennsic XIII and at Pennsic XXXIII. Was squired to Sir Finnvarr (#71).

Thegn Cynred Broccan of Ealdormere, sixth owner of the axe. Former Baron of Septentria, he sat the Ursine thrones beside Bushra’s sister Gaerwen. Squired to Sir David (#24).

The seventh owner, Sir Evander McLachlan of Ealdormere, was a brilliant swordsman and joyous soul, he crusaded in the Middle East two years ago.

Viscount Menken Brechen, Knight, Master of the Pelican, Baron of Ealdormere, and Current Baron of Skraeling Althing in Ealdormere, the eighth owner, sat on the Board of Directors of the Society.

The axe then passed to its ninth holder, Lord Streonwald Wulfesbana of Ealdormere, Squired to Sir Berus (#65). Also a fine smith, he provided a sharpening steel for the axe.

Lord Etien au Neval, of Ealdormere tenth holder of the axe of heroes, Step-brother to Viscountess Bushra, and King’s Champion of Ealdormere. Squire-brother to Sir Berus (#65) and Master Worgen (#14). Last Bard to the Courts of the Principality of Ealdormere, he does a frighteningly accurate imitation of a large ape.

Count Sarnac Bahadur, Knight of Ealdormere, and eleventh holder of the axe of heroes, Was squired to Sir Roak (#12), an inspiring and passionate commander.

The twelveth holder of the axe was Duke Roak of Ealdormere, Knight of Ealdormere. A Rozakii (see #91), famed for his prowess with mace and greatsword. Also a highly capable operational commander.

Master Trumbrand the Wanderer, Master of Arms in Ealdormere, was the thirteenth holder of the axe. A Rozakii (see #91), second MSCA ever elevated in Ealdormere, also a fine armourer. Married to Kayla (#22)

Master Worgen MacGreggor, Master of Arms in Ealdormere, the fourteenth holder of the axe, and Step-brother to Viscountess Bushra, was the First MSCA ever elevated in Ealdormere. Squire-brother to Sir Berus (#65) and Etien (#10). Universally beloved for his sweet nature, he also fights an amazing mace.

Duke Edouard Beausoleil, Knight of Ealdormere, and the fifteenth to hold the axe of heroes; was squired to Sir Finnvarr (#71). In his first mass battle at Pennsic he saved Kaellyn (#50) from serious injury or death, when her chinstrap failed and her helmet went flying, by throwing himself between her and an advancing army.

Lord Wulfgang Donnerfaust of Ealdormere, the sixteenth person to carry the axe, First squire to Sir Sarnac (#10), he has the makings.

The seventeenth holder of the axe of heroes was Baroness Domhnail Galbraith of Ealdormere, Aunt to Viscountess Bushra, and Current Baroness of Septentria in Ealdormere, married to Corwin (#2). Squired to Master Worgen (#14).

Lord Graeme de Liste of Ealdormere, was the eighteenth holder of the axe. He is married to Viscountess Bushra's niece Aurelia (who made Bushra's Coptic fillet). A fine teacher of new fighters.

Lord Ralf of Oaklawn the nineteenth and oldest person to carry the axe of Heros, from Outlands, and brother to Viscountess Bushra, He holds a valid heavy fighter authorization card at age 81.

Viscount Edward Zifram of Gendy, Knight, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican East, 45th Knight ever elevated in the Society, autocrat of Pennsic XXXIII, was the twentieth person to carry the axe.

Twenty-first holder of the axe was, his Royal Highness Sir Rurik, Crown Prince of Aethelmearc. A valiant warrior and most gracious Prince.

The Twenty-second was Lady Kayla the Cheerful of Ealdormere. Former King’s Champion of Ealdormere, a joyous fighter and generous soul. A Rozakii, married to Master Trumbrand (#13).

Taog of Concusare, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra, Warlord of Concusare, a non-SCA group of pre-600 AD Iberian Celts was the twenty third holder of the axe. He understands deeply things Celtic.

Earl David Martin Failsworth, Knight, and Duke of Ealdormere. First prince of the Principality of Ealdormere; also first King of the Kingdom of Ealdormere. One of the Nine Worthies of the Known World. He was the twenty fourth to hold the axe.

The twenty fifth holder of the axe was Sir Gregory of Loch Swan, Master of the Pelican in Lochac. A faithful Pennsic participant who flies up from Australia every summer.

Duchess Elina of Beckenham, Mistress of the Laurel and the Pelican, Lady of the Rose of the Middle Kingdom was the twenty-sixth to hold the axe. She is author of the “Iron Rose” essays and book, a singularly graceful lady. I believe she is married to Duke Steven (#106)

Twenty-seventh was Lord Axayacatl the Tlacuilo of Ealdormere. Distinguished bard to the Baron of Septentria (#2), formerly known as Gunnar Truthsinger, he has embraced his Mexica (“Aztec”) persona despite objections from Eurocentric SCAdians.

The axe then went to it's twenty eighth owner, Lady Seonid nic Thomas of Ealdormere, Baronial Champion of Septentria. Married to Streonwald (#9).

Lady Isotta Gianfigliazzi of Ealdormere, the twenty ninth holder, is a fine spear-fighter with a charming singing voice.

The thirtith holder of the axe was Lord Evan Quicktongue of Ealdormere Squired to Sir Katsu Okaiwa, he is known for a quick wit and generous nature.

Her Royal Majesty Marion II, Lady of the Rose, Queen of Ealdormere, was the thirty first to hold the axe of heros. Married to Sir Berus (#65), she is a noted combat archer.

It's Thirty-second holder was Master Brusten de Bearsul, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican of Middle Kingdom. A former Knight of the Middle Kingdom, he threw the first blow at the first demo in what became Ealdormere. Also a former War Chirurgeon at Pennsic.

Sir Ustad Hassan the Dredd of the Middle kindgom, and thiry-third to hold the axe, was the first Islamic persona to perform the Pennsic pilgrimage, the Penjj, he was squired to Sir Lothar (#47). He is an inspiring fighter to watch and a soul of vast generosity and kindness.

Lord Drust mhic Arleth of the Middle Kingdom, the thirty fourth person to hold the axe is first squire to Sir Ustad (#32). He has the makings.

35 Baron Tancred of Tanglewood of Ealdormere. Foremer Baron of Rising Waters in Ealdormere and a noted craftsman, he is a wise fighter who fights single combat only, heeding his body’s limitations.

36 Baron Andrixos Seljukroctonis, Master of the Pelican and the Laurel, Huskarl Calontir. A noted Byzantine warrior, he teaches Latin to the army of Calontir on the field (example: “Ave, marinus”, “Hello, sailor”).

37 His Royal Highness Brannos, Knight and Master of the Pelican, Crown Prince of the Middle Kingdom. One of the Nine Worthies of the Known World, considered the finest swordsman on the east side of the continent, he is the finest coach of fighting in the Society. Married to Mistress Rebekka (#108).

38 Master Feral von Halstern, Master of Arms in Eastrealm. A senior commander within the Great Northern Army of the Eastrealm, one of the finest field commanders at the Pennsic Wars.

39 Viscount Haakon Oaktall, Knight, Master of the Pelican in Aethelmearc Uncle to Viscountess Bushra, Warlord of Clan Yama Kaminari, he walks the talk and carves legends with his spear. See #85.

40 Lord Ardal of Antioch in Aethelmearc, Cousin to Viscountess Bushra, Squire to Sir Haakon (#39), a convivial companion.

41 Sir Trelogin Tavistock, Master of the Pelican and the Laurel of the Middle Kingdom. A truly joyous man, he begged the boon for Viscountess Bushra’s Laurel when he was placed on vigil for the Pelican. Interestingly, his first of three Peerages was his Pelican.

42 Sir Osric Eisenwulf of the Middle Kingdom. Head of a famous Midrealm fighting house, House Ironwolf, his generosity is well-known.

43 Baron Dur al-Jabal ak Mufti of Aethelmearc. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Father and guiding light of the Society’s Mozarab renaissance, he named Bushra al-Jazeeri bint al-Nahr.

44 Badger of Anglesey; Another non-SCA Celt and fine warrior, he casts bronze.

45 Countess Elina de Braose, Lady of the Rose, First Queen of Ealdormere, she led her army on the field, sword in hand.

46 Sir Aengus MacBain of Aethelmearc, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Knighted at Pennsic XXXIII – he held the axe before he knew he was to be knighted -- he was squired to Sir Haakon (#38). Married to Mistress Yvianne (#47). A truly generous, joyous man.

47 Maitresse Yvianne de Castel d’Avignon, Mistress of the Laurel of Aethelmearc. Married to her uncle Sir Aengus (#46) Scutifer to her husband, the previous summer she was injured on the field protecting him. After surgery she returned to the field to fight beside him.

48 Baron Lothar von Drachenstein, Knight, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican of the Middle Kingdom. Noted Knight and artisan. His “Drachenstein Treasures” is one of the leading SCA jewellers of the Known World.

49 Master Efenwealt Wystle, Master of the Laurel in Atlantia. Once killed the King of Ealdormere at Gulf Wars with his spear and wrote a song about it. He is mad, utterly mad.

50 Viscountess Kaellyn MacDermott, Mistress of the Pelican in Ealdormere. Second Princess of Ealdormere, War Chirurgeon, Pennsic XXV. Also a faithful friend and advisor to Bushra during her reign. She cannot stop working and serving.

51 Count Ruslan Novgorodcev, Master of Arms, Master of the Pelican of the East. Warlord of the East at Pennsic XXXIII. A fine field commander, his quick thinking saved Pennsic War XXIII from crisis and collapse on the field.

52 Baron Malachi von Uri, Knight of Calontir. In service to Queen Sile II (#101).

53 Viscount Bear the Wallsbane, Knight of Aethelmearc. Famed Aethelmearc warrior known for tenacity on the field.

54 Lord Justinian Clarus of Ealdormere. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Past Bard to the Court of Ealdormere, as a shieldman in the line he has used his voice to command whole armies when the generals were silent.

55 Count Valharic Caligula Aurelius, Knight of the Middle. King of the Middle at Pennsic XXXI, he learned much during his reign.

56 Lord Fian mhic Kennedy of House Darkyard of the Middle. Man-at-arms to Sir Valharic (#55). He has the makings.

57 The High Lord Barak Petreus Marinus Comitatus of Ealdormere. Squire to Barak Sir Hasdrubal (#4), a distinguished small-unit tactician and tenacious patriot.

58 The High Lord Richard Larmer of Ealdormere. Squire to Sir Finnvarr (#71), a distinguished participant in and organizer of high medieval tournament companies.

59 Duke Alaric von Drachenklaue, Knight of Caid. A gracious Peer and noted film student, and therein lies a tale.

60 Ritter Brion Landgraff von Bellatrix, Knight of the West Kingdom. Viscount and Knight. A Bellatrix of the blood, son of Duke Paul Bellatrix.

61 Viscount Atai Yoshina, Knight of Aethelmearc. A wandering Knight due to his previous employment in the service of his demanding uncle Samuel, the Society at large is his home.

62 Lord Dietrich von Berne of the East. Proprietor of “Dark Victory Armoury” maker of black plastic harness. He has put 1,000 fighters on the field.

63 Master Wulfgar o’the Wood, Master of Arms in the East. Noble head of a glorious house; the squire reflects the Master and the Master is most impressive indeed. He understands kin, profoundly.

64 Lord Eric Polynares East Squire to Master Wulfgar (#62), a noble and generous heart. His Master held the axe on his behalf.

65 His Royal Majesty Berus II, Knight, King of Ealdormere. Squire-brother to Master Worgen (#14) and Etien (#10), married to Marion (# 31), he made Bushra’s gold Viscounty coronet.

66 Sir Hrymgnar Aeulfsson of the East. Long-time merchant at Pennsic, his goods are reliable and priced fairly.

67 Count Aaron Preslee Worgensson, Knight of Ealdormere. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Was squired to Master Worgen (#13). Also known as “Iron Aaron of the Thousand Battles”, he fought 1,000 bouts at Pennsic XXXII. His kindness, patience and common sense all are treasures.

68 Sir Ivar the Black Knight of An Tir, who fought for Ealdormere at Pennsic XXXIII at the Princess of Avacal’s request.

69 Baron Ephraim ben Shlomo, Knight of the Middle. Baron of the Cleftlands, one of the Nine Worthies of the Known World. Perhaps the single most humble and gracious Knight in the Society.

70 Lord Hamish Gunn of Ealdormere. Grand-nephew to Viscountess Bushra. A member of House Galbraith, calls Bushra’s Laurel “Grandpa” through her brother Master Garraed Galbraith.

71 Duke Finnvarr de Taahe, Knight, Master of the Pelican and the Laurel in Ealdormere. Only fighter to have fought in every war-point battle in every Pennsic War. One of the Nine Worthies of the Known World. Sat on the Board of Directors of the Society.

72 The High Lord Hereward Feorbend of Ealdormere, Squire to Sir Finnvarr (#71), beloved of the Kingdom of Calontir.

73 Lord Travis Greywolf of Ealdormere. Squire to Sir Finnvarr (#71), he enjoys fighting with short pole weapons.

74 Lord Wat of Sarum in Ealdormere. A steady fighter and gentle man with a wicked sense of humour.

75 Sir Nigel Macfarlane of Ealdormere. Very effective Ealdormere field commander, Pennsic XXXIII. The axe rested on the Runestone immediately before Sir Nigel’s wife, Baroness Adrielle Kerrec OP OL (herself a fine warrior), sat vigil for the Laurel at Pennsic XXXIII.

76 Lord Angus Albhanni of Ealdormere. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Captain of the Black Tower and Head of the Eoforwic City Guard, he served as group marshal of a group without a permanent fight practice site for a decade, which is an act of vast dedication in the face of insurmountable frustration.

77 Master John the Pell, Master of Arms of the East. One of the legendary large-force commanders of the Pennsic War.

78 Duke Siegfried von Halstern, Knight of the East. Founder of the renowned Eastern Haus von Halstern.

79 Countess Kenna Harve, Mistress of the Pelican, Lady of the Rose of the Middle. Ruled the Middle alone after the death of her consort, Prince Jafar. She authorized as a heavy fighter after his death so the Crown could be on the field with her troops.

80 Lord Chengir abu Bene Said of Aethelmearc. The greatest Mozarab storyteller in the Known World.

81 Viscount Gunther von Wieselburg, Knight of Trimaris, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. The finest War Prince Ealdormere ever had lead it into the field.

82 Duke Dagan du Darregonne, Knight, Master of the Pelican in the Middle Kingdom. A distinguished Master of the Pelican, he has a strong conscience and great sense of personal honour.

83 Lord Simon Ivanovich Tzarakov of Aethelmearc. Cousin to Viscountess Bushra. Squired to Sir Haakon (#39), a dedicated servant.

84 Lord Damian Haakonsson of Aethelmearc. Cousin to Viscountess Bushra. Squired to Sir Haakon (#39). He has the makings.

85 Sir Dirk MacMartin, Huskarl Calontir. Cousin to Viscountess Bushra. Was squired to Sir Haakon (#39), a generous and joyous warrior.

86 Sir Ogami Akira of Aethelmearc. Head of Clan Yama Kaminari (“Clan Mountain Lightning)”, he does very detailed samurai. Also head of Security, Pennsic XXXIII.

87 Sir Magarichi no Kordono of Aethelmearc. Was squired to Sir Ogami (#85), he does his knight honour.

88 Lord Kataura Hachirou of Aethelmearc. Squired to Sir Ogami (#85), a very proficient senior squire to a very demanding knight.

89 Duke Ronald Wilmot, Knight of the East. Took a tragic relic, a helmet half-made for the late Sir Thorbjorn Osis, and turned it into a joyous gift for Sir Aaron Preslee’s knighting.

90 His Grace Tribune Darius Aurelius Serpentius, Knight of the East. While King of the East at Pennsic XXXI was voted the title “Imperator” by his army on the field. Fought 1,000 bouts at Pennsic (circa Pennsic XXIX). Married to Roxane (#90).

91 Her Grace Roxane Arabi Shahzadch, Mistress of the Laurel, Lady of the Rose in the East. While Queen at Pennsic XXXI was awarded the East’s Blue Tiger (martial award) for her abilities as a field commander. Married to Darius (#89).

92 Baron Thorgrim of the Rozakii of Aethelmearc. Khagan (head) of the Rozakii, a famed Khazari fighting house that has produced many great warriors.

93 Lord Garth Halfdan of the Marines of An Tir. In service to Duke Sir Hasdrubal (#4) he travels from An Tir every summer to fight alongside his kin; he calls himself “the Westernmost Ealdormerian”.

94 His Royal Majesty Siridean, Knight, King of Calontir. A most gracious and patient Knight.

95 Duke Talymar gan y Llewyn, Knight, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. Famed as “Hammer of the Tiger”, the Middle’s greatest field general ever. Also a fine friend to Ealdormere in its darkest hours.

96 Baron Brand Thorwaldsson, Master of the Pelican of Ealdormere. One of the best heralds in the Known World, a well-feared greatswordsman and, in his spare time, both patron saint of armourers and mailmakers and father of his Barony.

97 His Royal Highness Malik, Knight, Crown Prince of Ealdormere. He held the axe while doing his Penjj as part of his vigil, prior to being knighted at Pennsic XXXIII.

98 Duke Eliahu ben Itzhak, Knight, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. A firm friend of the Northlands.

99 Baron Thomas Damian Blackmoor of Aethelmearc. He once fought in an AIDS benefit tourney at Pennsic while recovering from heat exhaustion because the tourney was under-subscribed.

100 Serjeant the Lady Sigrid de Mere of the Middle. Squire to Sir Eliahu (#97).

101 Lord Kasimir of Staargard of Ealdormere. Second squire to Sir Sarnac (#10). His Knight held the axe on his behalf.

102 Her Royal Majesty Sile II, Mistress of the Laurel, Lady of the Rose, Queen of Calontir. Queen of Calontir at Pennsic XX. An old and dear friend of the Northlands.

103 Duke Christofer Kensor, Knight, Master of the Pelican of Calontir. A Knight of colourful origins who has learned much and become a stalwart of his Kingdom.

104 Duke Palymar of the Two Baronies, Knight, Master of the Pelican in the Middle. A firm friend of the Northlands, he both delivered the Midrealm proscription of the word “Ealdormere” and presided over Ealdormere’s first Crown Tournament.

105 Sir Jehane de la Batarde of the East. Former head of Security, circa Pennsic XXVII.

106 Lord Agnar the Goth of Ealdormere. Faithful Northman, fought in every Pennsic, starting about Pennsic XVI.

107 Duke Stephen of Beckenham, Knight, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican of the Middle. I believe he is married to Duchess Elina (#26). Reputed one of the finest swords of the Society.

108 Morgana of Concusare. Lady of Bushra's uncle Taog (#22). A deadly spear-woman amidst a clan of gallant and passionate warriors.

109 Her Royal Highness Rebekka, Mistress of the Laurel and the Pelican, Lady of the Rose, Crown Princess of the Middle. Married to Sir Brannos (#37), she is the only non-fighter within this roll. She went to Pennsic XXXIII while completing a course of chemotherapy. Of all this roll of heroes, she shines most brightly.

110 Sir Alan Culross, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. Former Earl Marshal of the Middle. Once spent fifteen hours in his car driving to a Coronation site, driving to the outgoing Crown’s home to recover a forgotten piece of regalia and returned to the event site (across the US/Canada border). A very patient man.

111 Lord Ulvar van der Nederlander of Ealdormere. One of the finest scouts in the woods battle, Pennsic XXXIII.

112 Lord Lucius Aurelius Varus of the East. A former Rozakii moved afar, renowned for his swordsmanship.

113 The High Lord Tynne Duair ap Beul of Ealdormere. A Rozakii, apprenticed in illumination to Princess Genevieve of Ealdormere.

114 Tigearn Corrig Mhor of Ealdormere. A deadly spear fighter with a decidedly early Irish bent.

115 Lord Rhodri ap Ieuan ap Hywel, Fyrdman Calontir. A Calontiri who lived in Ealdormere for a year, he both learned and taught much.

116 Lord Thorolfr inn Smithr of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard, well-reputed amongst the Calontiri.

117 Lord Pelayo of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

118 Lady Sara of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

119 Bjarn Styrmirsson of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

120 His Worship the Lord Hans Thorwaldsson of Ealdormere. Lord Mayor of the Royal City of Eoforwic and a member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

121 Lady Bridget of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

122 James MacDonald of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

123 The High Lord Dafydd ap Sion of Ealdormere. Archery Champion to Their Majesties Ealdormere and a faithful friend to those in grief and need.

124 Lord Augustine Ely of Ealdormere. A new fighter with eyesight challenges, he fought fearlessly in the woods while holding a great and pure faith in those around him.

125 Baron Colin James MacLachlan, Knight, Master of the Pelican, Huskarl Calontir. He held the axe while sitting vigil on his elevation to the Chivalry at Pennsic XXXIII, at the Runestone. Sat on the Board of Directors of the Society.

126 Master Charles Oakley, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. Current Seneschal of the Middle Kingdom.

127 Baron Konrad Matthais Jaeger, Master of the Pelican of Ealdormere. Commanded troops brilliantly on the Pennsic XXXIII bridges.

128 Lord Eoin o Berne of Ealdormere. Married to her sister Zahra Man-at-arms to Sir Malik (#96), former Baronial Champion of the Barony of Rising Waters in Ealdormere.

129 Viscount Kitakaze Tatsu Raito, Knight of the Middle. Viscount of Northshield, he is cutting the jewels for that land’s first Crowns.

130 Beothuk of the Beothuk of An Tir. Faithful friend to Viscountess Bushra. Last of the roll of heroes and by no means least.

The Axe of heroes was held by:
Four sitting Kings and Queens
Four Crown Princes and Princesses
Seventeen Dukes and Duchesses
Six Counts and Countesses
Seven Ladies of the Rose
Ten Viscounts and Viscountesses
Fifty Knights
Six Masters of Arms
Twenty-nine Peers of one or both of the Peaceful Orders
Fourteen Barons and Baronesses
Eighteen direct relations to Viscountess Bushra

The axe rested on the Pennsic Runestone

The Missing Piece

By Master Hector of the Black Height

Many years passed, and the tales of Ealdormere spread, and the people kept their pieces of her secret heart and shared them. Finally, so many tales spread and so many pieces were treasured that, of their own accord, the people resolved to challenge the Fates and assemble the secret heart again.

From far and wide the people came together in the depths of winter's darkness, and they brought forth their pieces. The oldest and the youngest handed over their treasures, and those who remembered past days were amazed to see that they had received all the pieces of the secret heart and more besides, enough it seemed for two hearts.

With care and compassion the people assembled two hearts, and found there was but one piece missing from the pair. The people rejoiced at their good fortune, and then wondered at the one piece that denied them a second hero's heart.

And the stars twinkled and Ealdormere spoke and said, "I will take back the complete heart, and leave the incomplete with you; give what remains with you a home." And Ealdormere took the complete heart into the stars, and it was never seen again by mortal man. The people were confused by this selfishness, but they obeyed her command and made a home for the second heart.

This home was beautiful and pure, yet humble. It had strong arms for the sword and bow, and gentle hands for the young and hurt. Its eye was clear and its voice was sweet. Its memory was long but its imagination vast. Despite a missing piece the second heart fit, and Ealdormere seemed to walk the land again.

The Three Sisters again knew that someone walked the world without their consent, and they resolved to punish Ealdormere once more, but from the skies Ealdormere hailed the Sisters and said, "I am here. I am punished. Your curse holds me. You cannot read my wyrd twice." And the Sisters were still, for they saw that the heart that walked the earth was incomplete, and they did no more in consequence.

And the people were glad, but their gladness was held in check by the knowledge of Ealdormere's selfishness. The new hero sensed the reservation of the people, and she asked what grieved them so.

The people said, "Your twin, who was so generous and kind, saw that when your hearts were assembled there was one piece missing, and she took that piece and left you lacking. This we do not understand, for she was a hero."

And Ealdormere said, "The one piece of her former heart my sister would not share was the bitterness that cast her from you. I lack that bitterness, but bear all her other attributes. I am not complete; but I am whole, thanks to her. She is as you made her, and as you made me. She is a hero, and thanks to her sacrifice we all may grow."

And so Spring came and the Northlands bloomed, and in the night skies her sentinel heard Ealdormere singing again by the fires, and the stars shone brighter for the joy of it.

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)

The Royal Lineage of Ealdormere

By Master Hector of the Black Height

In the days before Diana and Ardral the first Knight, before the shining sword of Chivalry again was taken up, there were no Kings and Queens in the Known World, for there was no Known World to be ruled. When the Known World came to recognize itself and sought wisdom and joy, it needed Kings to rule it, Queens to temper the rule of Kings and Princes to learn and to grow into Kings, for the sake of their lands and their people. Such was the way of Arthur and Charlemagne; such was the dream of the poets and bold Eglinton; such is the custom of the Known World from the first days.

The first King by Right of Arms in the Known World was Richard, first King of the ancient West Kingdom, which land is eldest among the Laurel Kingdoms; so the rolls of Kings begin. All true Kings of the Known World trace their lineage back to Richard I of the West. Any who do not are false and pretenders both to their thrones and to Royal blood.

Richard I and Marynel I had one son, Fulk.

Fulk I and Mary I had one son, Henrik.

Henrik I and Wendryn had one son, Richard.

Richard II and Anne his first Queen had one son, Fulk. According to the ancient rolls of the West, Richard also had a second Queen, Diana, but she bore him no sons and there was no challenge to Fulk's succession.

Fulk II and Mary II had one son, Henrik.

Henrik II and Leanne I had one son, William.

William I and Sheryl had one son, Siegfried.

Siegfried I and Marynel II had one son, Richard.

Richard III and La Rana had two sons. Their elder son was Henrik, who ruled the West in his turn.

Richard's younger son was Maragorn, who left his father's hall and was first King of the East Kingdom, which throne sat vacant and which people sought a King of Royal blood. Maragorn swore no fealty to his father, but was a King in his own right, and founded his own mighty line of Kings.

Some say that Maragorn was not a true King, in that he did not win his crown by right of arms in the manner of the Kings of the West beginning with Richard I. However, the rolls of the East do record him as first in their line, and in history there are ever such questions which can be debated and never resolved.

From Maragorn descend the Kings of the East and their cousins the Kings of Atlantia, Drachenwald and Æthelmearc. All other Kings and Kingdoms of the Known World trace their lines back to Richard I through Henrik III, Maragorn's elder brother.

Maragorn and his brother Henrik were the tenth generation of the unquestioned Royal line, extending to Richard I. Maragorn was the first King in the Known World who did not sit the throne of the West.

Henrik III of the West, elder brother to King Maragorn of the East, and Leanne II his Queen had one son, Caradoc. Scholars sometimes mistake this King Caradoc for his second great-grandson Cariadoc, but their names do differ. Four generations and many miles separate them.

Caradoc and Amie had one son, Siegfried.

Siegfried II and Sumer had one son, Henrik.

Henrik IV and Leanne III had two sons. Their elder son was Stefan, who ruled the West in his turn. From him the Western line continued in its generations, to this day. Also from Stefan's line sprang many goodly Kings and Kingdoms; Atenveldt, Caid, An Tir, Meridies, Ansteorra, Trimaris, the Outlands and Artemisia. In like wise descend from the younger sons of Stefan's line the lesser lines of the many Princes and Principalities of westerly lands.

Henrik IV's younger son, Stefan's brother, was Cariadoc. He and his lady Diana left Henrik's hall and built a great keep called Dragon'sLair, far to the east of the West Kingdom but not so far as the sea-swept Eastrealm. Cariadoc swore no fealty to his father nor to his cousin to the East, but was a King in his own right, and his lady was crowned a Queen.

Thus was the Middle Kingdom founded, third of the Kingdoms of the Known World, which was to be well-spring of Calontir, the granite Northshield and Ealdormere.

This contradicts those who say that for a time Cariadoc was a vassal of his cousin King Murad of the East, who is said by some to have called Cariadoc's lands the Barony Under the Mountain. Murad's heirs of the line of Maragorn may claim what they will, but Cariadoc was a King, never a Baron or Prince of the East; never did Cariadoc put his hands between another King's to swear fealty and do homage in right of the lands of the Middle, though it is true that the Middle lands were carved in part from the lands of the east, and in part from the lands of the West. However, neither Crown had ventured into the lands that became the Middle to exercise sovereignty. Cariadoc did venture forth, did claim these lands and the throne that ruled over them. Of Cariadoc's Kingship and the legitimacy of his claim and his line there is no denying.

Stefan and Cariadoc, the sons of Henrik of the West, were (along with their cousin Murad son of Akbar of the East) the fourteenth generation of the unquestioned Royal line of the Known World. Both the lines of Stefan and Cariadoc extend back through Henrik, first-born son of Richard and tenth King of the West, to that Richard who was first King of the West. The line of Murad extends back through Maragorn, the second son of Richard III of the West, who was first King of the East.

King Cariadoc I of the Middle, younger brother of Stefan of the West, and Diana I his Queen had one son, Franz.

Franz and Abrizhade had one son, Cariadoc.

Cariadoc II and Diana II had one son, Iriel.

Iriel and Morna had one son, Andrew. This was the Andrew who led the Midrealm's armies against his cousin Cariadoc of the East in the first of the Pennsic Wars, and was victorious.

Andrew I and Anne I had one son, Thaid.

Thaid and Alexis had one son, Andrew.

Andrew II and Anne II had one son, Merowald.

Merowald I and Gwendolyn had one son, Bearengaer.

Bearengaer and Jessica had one son, Dagan.

Dagan I and Armida had one son, Rolac.

Rolac and Lindanlorien had one son, Michael, who was not wise.

Michael and Zarina I had one son, Albert the Good, who restored the Midrealm line after his mother was driven to abdication and his father failed his Kingdom and desecrated his Crown before fleeing the Middle to parts unknown.

Albert the Good and Selene had one son, Dagan.

Dagan II and Catherine had one son, Finnvarr. King Finnvarr sailed North to an empty land and tilled the soil on the shore of the Inland Sea. Where King Finnvarr tilled, a settlement sprang up which came to be called Eoforwic. This settlement would grow into a mighty City in years to come, a pillar to support what would grow into the Barony of Septentria and then into Ealdormere.

Finnvarr and Caellyn had one son, Merowald.

Merowald II and Kirsten I had one son, Moonwulf.

Moonwulf I and Zarina II had one son, Nathan.

Nathan and Kirsten II had one son, Laurelen.

Laurelen I and Ithriliel I had one son, Alen.

Alen I and Emmelyne I had one son, Talymar.

Talymar I and Valmai had one son, Laurelen.

Laurelen II and Ithriliel II had one son, Hugo, who settled in the lands of the North, which then were called the Barony of Septentria but later would be known as Ealdormere.

Hugo and Caitlin I had two sons. Moonwulf was the elder and from him extends the line of the Midrealm, Northshield and Ealdormere. This is Moonwulf the Glorious, who won that name on the Pennsic battlefield during the reign of Hugo his father, when he took the short road to glory against the Eastern army and taught all the Known World the difference between victory and triumph. This exploit is still recalled in song and story.

Ternon was the younger son of Hugo. He left Dragon'sLair and settled in the west of the Midrealm, where he took a wife named Ghleanna. This land was known to its inhabitants as Calontir and as Prince of Calontir Ternon swore fealty, first to Hugo his father and later to Moonwulf his elder brother, when Moonwulf ascended their father's throne and became King of the Middle.

From Prince Ternon are descended all the Princes of Calontir who swore fealty to the sons of Moonwulf, and, later, their sons' sons the Kings of the mighty Kingdom of Calontir who swore fealty to none.

Prince Ternon of Calontir and King Moonwulf his brother were the thirty-seventh generation of the unquestioned Royal line of the Known World, extending back through their father King Hugo of the Middle to Cariadoc I of the Middle, second son of Henrik IV of the West, then through Henrik IV back to Henrik III of the West, elder son of Richard III of the West, and from him back to Richard I, first of all the Kings of the Known World.

On the maternal side, Ternon's line stretched back to Geoffri, who served as Baliff of Calontir in the days of King Finnvarr, and to Brummbar, first Warlord of Calontir in the days of King Laurelen. Thus it can be seen that the blood of Cariadoc and Richard mingles with the blood of proud Huscarls in the Kings of the Falcon Kingdom.

King Moonwulf II of the Middle, Prince Ternon's elder brother, and Takya his Queen had one son, Andrew, whose Princess, Anne du Fountain, a Duchess of Royal blood in her own right, found cause to leave him before he ascended to his throne. Anne was succeeded as Crown Princess by Sharra de la Praderia Blanca, whom Andrew took as his second consort.

Andrew III and Sharra had one son, Talymar. Andrew III's first consort, Anne, had no son to contest Talymar's claim to Andrew's throne when the time came for Talymar to succeed his father.

Talymar II and Eislinn I had one son, Corin.

Corin I and Myfanwy I had one son, Alen.

Alen II and Genvieve had one son, Eliahu.

Eliahu I and Elen I had one son, Valerius.

Valerius had one legitimate son, Corin, by Fern his Queen, and a bastard son, Yog, by a Northern woman, her name now forgotten, who died in childbirth. Yog, orphan bastard of a King, was raised in the Northlands by his mother's people. Yog was ignorant of his blood until in the prime of a warrior's manhood.

From Corin, son of Valerius and Fern, descends the line of the Sons of Cariadoc, without interruption.

Yog, Valerius' bastard, had no claim on the Midrealm throne, nor did he desire it. Rather, Yog stood as first Champion of the Region of Ealdormere beside his consort, Hanora, not as a threat to his half-brother's line but as a support to it and in faith with it. While Yog led the Northlands, he never claimed its lands, which lands remained a demesne of the Middle and its King; then Valerius, later Corin, later still Alen the Fearful.

Yog and Hanora had one son, John. John and his consort, Deirdre, lost their birthright through a King's cruel word, but John and Deirdre's legacy and more besides was claimed in later years by Prince David I of Ealdormere, called David the Lesser by some, and rightly so.

Corin II of the Middle, legitimate son of King Valerius and half-brother to Yog, and Myfanwy II his Queen, had one son, Alen the Fearful. This Alen the Fearful is the King who denied his half-uncle Yog's line and sent his own son to the lands of the East to deny John and Deirdre's birthright rather than face them himself within his own demesne. By Alen's command began the time of the Unspoken Name, for he proscribed the very word Ealdormere.

From his day unto the reign of the first King of Ealdormere no King of the Middle after Alen the Fearful has borne that reviled name.

Alen III, called Alen the Fearful, and Isabella had one son, Palymar, who as Prince and Heir Apparent served his father better than that King deserved.

Palymar I and Katherine I had one son, Emrys.

Emrys and Emmelyne II had one son, Talymar, who came to be known as Hammer of the Tiger, for he was a great general and defeated the armies of his cousin of the Eastrealm in the Debatable Lands. Talymar was firm friend to the North, and about this time did the line of Cariadoc again see the value of the Northlands. Thus ended the time of the Unspoken Name.

Talymar III and Eislinn II, of beloved memory, had one son, Eliahu, who took after his father and was a friend to the Northlands.

Eliahu II and Elen II had one son, Corwyn. It was King Corwyn who decided the lands that had been led -- though never claimed -- by John and Deirdre were goodly and, as well as his father's crown, claimed a Coronet and called himself Crown Prince of Ealdormere, as did his sons to the fourth generation.

Corwyn and Shana had one son, Reynard.

Reynard and Brynhildr had one son, Palymar.

Palymar II and Katherine II had one son, Tadashi, who was the last Southron King to claim the title of Crown Prince of Ealdormere for more than a day (as was the custom of many of the sons of Comar).

Tadashi and Ariake had two sons. The elder was Comar, and from Comar I extends the line of the Middle and, later, the line of the Princes of Northshield.

The younger son of Tadashi was named David. He is called "David the Lesser" by some, to distinguish Prince David I from his descendant, our own King David, first King of Ealdormere, whom some call "David the Greater". However, David the Lesser was indeed a great and good Prince: merely his Coronet was lesser than David the Greater's Crown. Also, a Prince David I and a King David the first King (and especially should one of King David's descendants be named David also, which would mean there would be two David Is) would be confusing.

King Tadashi of the Middle gave his second son David a great gift as his birthright, the lands claimed especially by his forebear Corwyn. To do this, Tadashi surrendered his title as Crown Prince of Ealdormere.

David and Tangwystl left Dragon'sLair and sailed North across the Inland Sea. On the North shore David built his great hall, in the shade of the great maple by the Inland Sea. He claimed the North as his birthright and, as Prince of the Northlands, swore fealty to Tadashi his father and later to Comar his elder brother.

Prince David and his elder brother King Comar I were the fifty-fourth generation of the unquestioned Royal line of the Known World. Their line extended back through their father Tadashi of the Middle to Moonwulf II, elder son of Hugo of the Middle and through him back to Cariadoc I of the Middle, younger son of Henrik IV of the West, then through Henrik IV to Henrik III of the West and then to Richard, the first of all Kings in the Known World.

From Prince David I down to the seventeenth generation extended the line of the Princes of Ealdormere, all of them faithful vassals to the line of Comar I, King of the Midrealm, which made their liege-lords their cousins and kin.

David I and Tangwystl had one son, Michel, who in time swore fealty to his uncle Comar I in right of Ealdormere and then to Comar's son Dag I, his cousin, when Dag succeeded Comar as King of the Middle.

Michel and Kaellyn had one son, Osis. Osis swore fealty to Dag I his father's cousin and then to Dag's son David.

Osis and Ragnheithr had one son, Roak. Roak I swore fealty to David and then to David's son Comar II.

Roak I and Tarkwyn I had one son, Kildare. Kildare I swore fealty to Comar II and then to Comar's son Ronin. This is the Ronin who took his armies to the Pennsic War, met his cousin Ruslan, King of the East, in the Debatable Lands and declared peace, for both Kings preferred to fight a grand tourney rather than a war.

Kildare I and Catherine had one son, Belgar. Belgar swore fealty to Ronin and then to Ronin's son Finn I.

Belgar and Andrea had one son, Kildare. Kildare II swore fealty to Finn I and then to Finn's son Dag II.

Kildare II and Lella had one son, Cordigan. Cordigan swore fealty to Dag II and then to Dag's son Jafar.

Cordigan and Diane had one son, Gunther. Gunther I swore fealty to Jafar and then to Jafar's son Finn II. This is the King Finn whose armies met the armies of the East on the field, led by their King Lucan. The tradition of Chivalry at War was threatened by the hatred between these two Kings, for many of their warriors followed the Kings' lead and fought with grim ferocity and in some cases bitterness. In this War Gunther was tested sorely: he emerged as a wise and brave Prince, loyal to his King and faithful to his people.

Gunther I and Joleicia had one son, David. David II swore fealty to Finn II and then to Finn's son Brannos.

David II and Elina had one son, Roak. Roak II swore fealty to Brannos and then to Brannos' son Osis I, who did crown himself.

Roak II and Tarkwyn II had one son, Mordain. Mordain swore fealty to Thorbjorn Osis I and then to Thorbjorn's son Tarquin.

Mordain and Ælflæda had one son, Roak, and many said this Roak looked much like his grandfather. Roak III swore fealty to Tarquin and then to Tarquin's elder son Edmund I, called Longshanks.

[This is the Longshanks who did spend a campaigning season in the Debatable Lands taking the drastic action of banishment against Duchess Anne of the Middle and the subtle action of ignoring the Great Dark Horde. Longshanks and his cousin, Bjorn of the East, both were said to deem the people of the Horde unworthy of the attention of a King. Neither action served Longshanks well and he seemed to spend most of that campaigning season trying to recover from his early, bold errors. This state of affairs must have tried that King's vassals sorely, especially as the Dark Horde always have been firm friends of Ealdormere.]

King Tarquin also had a younger son, Daffyd, who left Dragon'sLair and settled to the West of Ealdormere, in the lands called Northshield. Daffyd swore fealty as a Prince to his father Tarquin and later to his elder brother Edmund Longshanks, when Longshanks came to his father's throne.

Thus Prince Daffyd, second son of Tarquin son of Thorbjorn, was the root of the second line of Princes who swore fealty to the sons of the blood of Comar. The Royal line of the Midrealm thus had two lines of Princes as vassals, the sons of David (now known as David the Lesser) and the sons of Daffyd. As the sons of David the Lesser were the senior line, they ever took precedence over their cousins of the line of Daffyd of Northshield. However, the two Princely houses ever were friendly, as were their lands, for both Princes' peoples were known for their love of song and their valour in battle. This friendship remains to this happy day.

Prince Roak III of Ealdormere and Moria had no sons but had a daughter, Elizabeth. She was acclaimed their heir and thus, when Roak's reign came to an end, Elizabeth became the first Royal Lady by Right of Arms among all the line of Cariadoc. Elizabeth swore fealty to Edmund Longshanks and then to Longshanks' son Thorbjorn Osis II, who did crown himself in the manner of his namesake.

Elizabeth and Menken, her consort, had one son, Edward, and on his ascent to the throne the line of David the Lesser returned to the male. Edward swore fealty to Thorbjorn II and then to Thorbjorn's son, Edmund II.

Edward and Rylyn had one son, Gunther. Gunther II swore fealty to Edmund II and then to Edmund's son Palymar III. This is the Palymar who did love the Northlands truly, though all Kings of that name have been friends of the North, even Palymar I, who as Crown Prince and Heir to Alen the Fearful was bound by honour to bear tidings of his father's proscription to the Eastrealm, that the people of Ealdormere visiting their neighbours might hear their King's word.

Gunther II and Morgon had one son, Berus. Berus swore fealty to Palymar III and then to Queen Kenna, widow of Palymar's son Jafar of beloved memory, who died before he could ascend Palymar's throne, and later to Dag III, Kenna's son. This does not reflect on the longevity of the Southron Royalty; Berus and Marion both were long-lived.

Berus and Marion had one son, David. This David was wise and bold. In his wisdom he measured his father's land and its strength. In his boldness he resolved to wield that strength. And thus he declared that, when the time came for him to ascend the throne, he would emulate his ancestor Cariadoc I and ascend, not as a Prince in fealty to the line of Comar, but as a King in his own right.

Berus and Marion were the last Prince and Princess of the North and the last of the seventeen generations to swear fealty to the line of Comar. The last King of the Middle to sit as overlord to the Prince of Ealdormere was Dag III, only son of Kenna the lone Queen and Jafar of beloved memory who was son of Palymar III, a Royal Prince of the Midrealm line and acknowledged to be of the blood of Comar I. And when David and Elina came to their Northern throne King Dag III of the Middle and Elayna his Queen were there to congratulate their cousins and to bid the Northlands adieu.

This meant that, within the Midrealm, once the Line of David the Greater had set itself apart as a Line of Kings and not mere Princes and vassals, the Line of Daffyd of Northshield was elevated to Second Royal Line in the Middle Kingdom, in precedence following only the Crown of the Middle themselves and their immediate heirs, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of that Kingdom.

So it came to pass, and David and Elina sat the thrones of Ealdormere as King by Right of Arms and Queen of Love and Beauty over the North, vassals to none and equals with their royal cousins of the fifteen other Kingdoms of the Known World. King David son of Prince Berus, called by some David the Greater, was the first of the Kings of the North.

David the Greater and Elina had one son, Thorbjorn, but many called him Osis. This is the Thorbjorn who died early in his reign in an accident and left his Queen Caitlin as the second Queen to rule over the land alone. And the northern fields that were watered with tears for Jafar a second season were rimed with salt, for Osis and for his shoulder-companion Bernadette, belt-daughter of Sir Gunther of the House Gottwiesel, who died with her King.

Thorbjorn and Caitlin had one son, Kildare, who was acknowledged heir to the throne before Thorbjorn's death. Caitlin sat the throne as Queen until the time appointed by law, when her King's heir himself came to be King. Thereafter, she left the Northlands and, some said, did homage to the Dragon throne.

Kildare and Josephine had one son, Edouard. [This is the Kildare who elevated a landed Baron and Baroness to his Court and announced to all by written proclamation the elevation of a Laurel, days before the surprise.]

Before coming to the Northern throne Edouard had wed Eanor, Countess of the Royal line of Drachenwald, daughter of Baron Torbin and Mistress Ragni, step-daughter of the old Duke, Finnvarr. Thus the Royal line of the North again returned to the blood of de Taahe and joined forever to the Trillium seat the glories of the storied House Amberhall, an echo from the first days of old Septentria.

Edouard and Eanor had one son, Berus.

Berus and Marion had one son, Roak.

King Berus the son of Edouard now is King of the North and King David the Greater the son of Berus was first King of the North. From David to Berus are five generations.

Prince Berus the son of Gunther was the last of the vassal Princes of the North who swore to the line of Comar of the Middle; and Prince David the Lesser, the second son of Tadashi, was the first. From David I to Berus were seventeen generations.

King Tadashi the son of Palymar was the last King of the line of Cariadoc to claim the title Crown Prince of Ealdormere; and King Corwyn the son of Eliahu was the first. From Corwyn to Tadashi were four generations.

King Eliahu the son of Talymar, the Hammer of the Tiger, was the last King of the Middle to hold Ealdormere within the demesne of the Middle as a mere fief without especial status; and King Cariadoc the second son of Henrik was the first. From Cariadoc I to Eliahu II were thirty-six generations.

King Henrik the son of Siegfried was the last of the Kings of the West who could claim the Northlands for their own, for in that time no other Kings challenged them and the throne of the Midrealm had not been established; and King Richard I who first seized the Crown of the West was the first. From Richard I to Henrik IV were thirteen generations.

So from Richard I, King of the Laurel Kingdom of the West and font of the Royal Lines of all the Known World, to Berus, King of the Laurel Kingdom of Ealdormere, sixteenth of the great Kingdoms, are seventy-five generations. King Berus heir, Prince Roak, shall be the seventy-sixth generation in an unbroken line of Royal authority, bound to land and people by the iron bonds of duty and the silken ties of love.

And before those many generations there was no Known World, and in Ealdormere were but the Wolf and the wilds and the will.

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)

For the Coronation of King Thorbjorn Osis, 06 May A.S. XXX

By Master Hector of the Black Height

Oars!

Let backs swift strain against the oars

Like arms have strained against the pell;

We strike forth fast to southern shores

Where legends loud we soon will tell,

Of our own making, ours and his.

Pull the oar, now pull and glide,

We soon shall reach the southern side

Where we will land and then shall sing:

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

Arms!

Let our swords rest while oars we pull,

For soon bright blades shall rest no more;

Our horns with ale a Queen will fill

To quench the thirst of men at war;

A mighty thirst that, ours and his.

Draw the burnished blades anew

That all the Southron folk will view

When we do land and proudly sing:

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

Voices!

Let milk-white clouds sail on our cheers,

Let skalds seek out new words of praise.

Tales of this dawn will ring for years,

Let none forget this day of days;

A day of glory, ours and his.

Hear our voices, battle-wise,

This day which let forth triumph cries

As to far shores his ship we bring:

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

Names!

Let these proud names be heard again;

Raedmund, Berus, Worrigen,

Grimbold, Mort and Horgarth Thegn,

Nolgen, Zadok, Etien;

Let heroes' names ring, ours and his.

Urich, Pile and Jock, men sworn

To stand and fall with Thorbjorn,

Which buys the right these words to sing:

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

Legends!

Today let skald-fame ring and grow

As fits a day of triumph bright

For Robert Fitzhugh's squire does go

To take the crown that is his right

As honour marks it, ours and his.

With Dagan, Rolac, Coley stands

The chieftain o'er the warrior bands

Whose foes shall feel the ash-wood sting;

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

Hearts!

Soon to a King we shall be squired

And to the Crown we shall be sworn;

By Valthjona now inspired,

For Caitlin these proud surcoats borne,

The black and silver, our and his.

Arnora's grace and Utsi's smiles

Will cheer us o'er the many miles

As we to such hearts tribute bring;

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

Land!

The roar of surf upon the sand

Is drowned by voices roaring loud;

As oars are shipped, with swords to hand

We peer across the cheering crowd

Who offer welcome, ours and his.

Harcourt's face, Ihashi's cheers

Are with them too, across the years

That rich with legends new take wing;

Today my Jarl becomes our King,

Today my Jarl becomes our King.

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)

From Coronet Tourney XII

By Master Hector of the Black Height

Remember the day the old Northern Duke

Saw his squire recognized as a Knight?

Remember the time that this warrior proud

Led the North-wolves far south to a fight?

I tell of all this and I'd tell more beside

As is a great warrior's due

For I would tell all of our Prince's proud heir

And all that I tell you is true.

Remember the seasons of service to all

Devoted to ledgers and laws?

Remember the lady's devotion and care

To her people's and Barony's cause?

I tell of all this and I'd tell more beside

As such a fair lady is due

For I would tell all of our Princess' heir

And all that I tell you is true.

Remember this day, for brave Varus stood tall

In list so well-graced by strong swords.

The vanquished did honour as fairly he fell,

To win those most precious awards

That Althegn can hold and Althegna can grace

Without fear of strife or travail.

So cheer good Ælflæda and brave Sir Mordain

Whom all will remember. Waeshael!

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)

On the Passing of the Third Prince of Ealdormere

Coronet Tourney IV, 21 September A.S. XXVI

By Master Hector of the Black Height

I heard a raven call your name, Osis of the Livery;

The raven said he learned it from the face in foes' dead eyes,

For many men have seen you, and many men have fallen;

From such do some build glory and from such some pluck their prize.

I heard the raven cry your name;

Such is the sum of Prince's fame.

I heard a raven call your name, Osis the shield-hewer;

The raven learned it in the faces staring from the list.

There fell before your might the splendour serried from the Northlands:

With steel you caught a crown, the same steel those red lips had kissed.

Once more I heard the raven's cry;

So quickly do the seasons fly.

I heard a raven call your name, Osis, son of Michael;

The raven saw you in the eyes of men from Carthage's shore

Amidst the fallen foemen who now feed the fatted ravens

In distant lands, 'midst friends who followed your command to War.

Yet once again the raven cried;

'Twas at your word so many died.

I heard a raven call your name, Osis, Prince of Northlands;

He learned it from the cheers that rang about him in the air.

Your name and fame will live far past the day you feast the raven:

Your strengths outdid those weaknesses we are condemned to share.

Then did the raven fly away:

Another wears your crown this day.

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)

David and the Coronation Tourney

By Master Hector of the Black Height

In Comar's tournament began

Our Prince and loyal Cordigan

Against two stalwart Southron foe

Was serried David and d'Arnot

Prince David grasped his sword and shield

With halberd d'Arnot took the field

Against two men and their swords three

Did David seek a victory

Let cheers now ring for our new-crowned King!

Waeshael!

A fanfare spurred them to the test

The two sides closed in martial geste

As sword-blows rained down right and left

A cunning strike shook halberd's heft

The polearm fell 'midst Southern men

Disarméd was Lord Cordigan

His honour urged him quit the field

But one scarce hope he would not yield

Let cheers ring true for the Southern two!

Waeshael!

Prince David pressed forth gallantly

E'en though his one short sword met three

He met each sword blow with its kind

And kept blows from d'Arnot behind

Disarmed as the fight began

The Prince did shield good Cordigan

He closed his foe and hotly pressed

That Faeringold might safely rest

Pray give a cheer for Ealdormere!

Waeshael!

He turned the blows with skill and might

Our Prince did turn the tourney fight

And steered the Southron pair away

That de Arnot might join the fray

For as he steered the pair around

The Southron foe did give their ground

And David stood where foeman's blow

Had been the bane of brave d'Arnot

Let joyous calls ring 'midst these walls!

Waeshael!

With subtle tap of nimble toe

Our Prince kicked polearm to d'Arnot

The Southron pair by one hand pressed

Could not long match the North's two best

As foes did fall, each one by one

Gave praise to noble Cordigan

And final combat, singly fought

Gave David triumph, finely wrought

For honour true cheer Northern two!

Waeshael!

And as the latter foeman fell

And as loud cheers the air did swell

All did reflect on Prince most bold

And graceful fight, without a hold

In which he steered the action so

To arm the once disarmed d'Arnot

And thus there was true glory won

By a Prince's gift to his champion

Let his praises rise and shake the skies!

Waeshael!

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)

The Field Battle, Pennsic XVII

By Master Hector of the Black Height

Ebb and flow, ebb and flow

Wave on rocks, wash and falter

Wave of honour, wave of tears

Fell for friends far lost and gone

Like the waves they lined that day

Wave and wave, steel and sinew

Coursed to crash on rocks and crags

That lined the breach they hoped to lop

Like the waves they laughed that day

Sea-dew sparkle on sunlit steel

Stood they, waves in serried ranks

Like the tide, turned east to roar

Carthage's son stood firm the first

Seaman, soldier, wave-point aimed

With marines and soldiers many

Poised to pounce, lines flowing free

Followed Aeden, long-armed fighter

Gray-beard girt in steel and arms

Cap of waves, the warrior captain

Waiting walk on blooded foam

Came the morning, forth the many

Waves all tumbling towards the east

Wave on wave behind fair Freemen

Signed to spend themselves full well

Came the tide surge, came cruel battle

Waves and troughs, rude crash and roar

Forward Carthage! On Kincora!

On to Eastrealm's point and edge

Towering wave cap, poised to tumble

But the broken rhythm

Ruined the symmetry of the tide race

Pierced on points of Eastern shore

Vain the struggle, and yet valiant

Wave on wave enfold, not free

Elandris fallen, foemen facing

Wounds before him, marines close by

Wave on wave, then waves fell on them

Trident seas of spears unchallenged

Lost was Grimwulf, then Alasdair

Keening Shinan standing o'er him

Roared Rhys Mordwyn, well-spring warrior

Roared o'er crashing sword and spear

"On Trimarans, On Merkfalans

"Come and race the tide today!"

Surged the east, scourged the coast

Glandydd fell, his steel still singing

As he fell 'midst many comrades

Northern waves lapped eastern legs

Forward Aeden, laughing graybeard

Saw his time come, met the moment

Gleeful captain, wave at full course

Meeting fate his wounds in front

Eastrealm circle all around them

Fate washed o'er them, fore and back

Cast was Edward far like flotsam

Lone and lanced, to fight and fall

Cast on rocks was Northern mettle

Rocks of iron, rocks of gold

Shoni's fate fell with King's guardsmen

Tide pool caught 'midst towering crags

Slain from Skraeling was their finest

Cry, for Cordigan sings no more

Shed your tears in distant Steinbach

For Northern foemen felled and still

There fell all who came campaigning

Surged in file to meet their fate

Ruddy ripples reached for succour

Distant wavelets skirt the shore

Ebb and flow, ebb and flow

Waves on rocks, wash and falter

Waves of honour, wave of tears

Fallen for the drear day gone

(copyright Arthur McLean 1991-2000)